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An informed source said the DSI started looking into the case after former city clerk Nathanon Thavisin filed a complaint about irregularities.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), however, is still going ahead with the BRT system, which has been promoted by Bangkok Governor Apirak Kosayodhin since he first took office. This is Apirak's second term as governor.

"We believe the plan should be suspended for the time being, because evidence suggests that something went wrong in the bidding process," said Pol Colonel Prawes Moonpramuk, who is leading the investigation.

His team has already questioned several witnesses and if it is concluded that there are irregularities, the DSI will forward the case to the National Counter Corruption Commission.

Nathanon had apparently alleged that the BMA was purchasing each bus for Bt7 million, even though they cost Bt4 million at market prices.

"She also said the BMA's demands for the brake system and the bus height were so specific that general suppliers could not participate in the bidding," the source added.

Another source said that though the procurement plan involved just 45 buses, the bid winner was bound to have an unnecessary advantage over other companies if more BRT vehicles were needed in the future.