Justice to propose suspension of time limit on special cases
Justice Minister Charnchai Likhitjittha is seeking to suspend the statute of limitations in certain cases where the suspects have fled to avoid investigation, prosecution or trial.
"Charnchai will ask the Cabinet to approve the proposal at its meeting next Tuesday," a Government House source disclosed yesterday. According to the source, suspension of the statute of limitations would be possible in cases where the crime is punishable by death, life imprisonment or a jail term of 20 years. The proposal would be part of amendments to the Criminal Code and Code of Criminal Proceedings. Another proposed amendment is to allow the attorney-general or acting attorney-general to appoint a public prosecutor or investigator to take charge of crimes committed overseas. Under current laws only the attorney-general or acting attorney general can handle such cases. There is also a proposal to make a public prosecutor's decision to prosecute sufficient grounds for the issue of arrest warrants. "Instead of only police officers, administrative officers will also have the right to carry guns when making arrests," the source added. Meanwhile, PM's Office Minister Thirapat Serirangsan said yesterday he would ask the Cabinet to approve a 30-year statute of limitations in cases of official corruption. Currently, some corruption cases have a 20-year statute of limitations. Thirapat hoped the extended statute of limitations would deter officials from corrupt behaviour.
Piyanart Srivalo The Nation
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