Saxena glad to be under maximum security

Chartchai

The DSI agents have been coordinating closely with guards at the Bangkok Remand Prison over routine and extra security measures. Saxena has been moved to a cell that has a two-tier locking system as well as 24-hour closed-circuit surveillance.

Prison commander Sophon Thitithammaphruek said the room was previously used to quarantine inmates with highly infectious diseases, but has been sanitised and renovated to accommodate Saxena.

He added that Saxena was in a good condition and was exchanging comments with the two inmates assigned to stay with him - one a medical doctor and another a man with a large build who can assist Saxena.

The high-profile inmate spent most of his time snoozing and occasionally reading a book, possibly because he did not wish to disturb his fellow inmates, Sophon said.

Saxena is being given the same medical treatment as the other 27 inmates who are ill. The prison is also planning to recruit a team of physiotherapists to help Saxena with his partial paralysis, a prison hospital source said. There are 10 inmates including Saxena who will be provided with this rehabilitation course.

Corrections Department director general Chartchai Sutthiklom said Saxena was unable to consume prison meals and had asked for non-spicy food and bread. He claimed that Saxena had personally told him that he was pleased with the existing security measures.

"I am certain that there will be no incidences under the tight security," he said.

Department of Special Investigation director general Tharit Phengdit said the security measures were at the maximum level, adding that Saxena was communicating with prison guards more often.

"He is happy with existing security measures and welfare conditions being provided," Tharit said.