Panel to probe drug deaths

Published on August 15, 2007

The committee comes with a long official name: "The Independent Committee Inspecting, Studying and Analysing AntiNarcotics Policies and Implementation that led to Loss of Life and Assets and Injuries to Members of the Public".

The 12member panel includes Justice Ministry permanent secretary Charan Phakdithanakul, his deputies Kittiphong Kittayarak and Charnchao Chaiyanukij, former senator Kraisak Chonhavan, former crimebuster Wanchai Srinualnat, and Office of Narcotics Control Board secretarygeneral Kitti Limchaikij.

The other members are Thammasat University deputy rector Udom Ratamarit, senior public prosecutor Uthai Arthiwej, Department of Special Investigation deputy directorgeneral Tharit Phengdit, senior Corrections Department official Wasan Singkhaselit, and two senior officials - one each from the Justice and Foreign ministries.

The committee's main responsibilities include factfinding into each killing and identifying those responsible. The panel is also tasked with working out compensatory solutions for families of those killed.

The committee is authorised to summon government officials and individuals for interviews, as well as to call for evidence from government agencies. It also has power to organise public hearings and set up subcommittees to assist in its investigation.

Under the framework, the Justice Ministry and Department of Special Investigation will jointly provide logistical support for the committee, while the Finance Ministry and the Bureau of the Budget will handle budgetary management and provide funding and meeting allowances.

The Nation