Law
Court Revokes Bail for Former Racha Thewa Chief in Kinnaree Streetlight Corruption Case
The Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases has revoked the bail of Songchai Nokkhamin, the former chief of Racha Thewa Subdistrict Administrative Organization, citing concerns over potential witness tampering.
On September 23, 2026, the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases Region 1 issued an order to revoke the bail of Songchai Nokkhamin, the former head of the Racha Thewa Subdistrict Administrative Organization (SAO) in Samut Prakan. According to Khaosod Online, the court decision stems from the ongoing legal proceedings regarding the controversial procurement of 'Kinnaree' solar-powered streetlights.
The court’s decision follows reports that Songchai had been appointed as a spokesperson for the acting mayor. The judiciary expressed concern that this new role could provide the defendant with opportunities to interfere with evidence or witnesses involved in the corruption case, which involves 14 defendants in total.
For residents and those interested in local governance, this development highlights the ongoing scrutiny of the Racha Thewa SAO’s past procurement projects. The case has been a long-standing point of public interest due to the high costs associated with the decorative lighting installations.
It remains to be confirmed how this revocation will impact the broader trial schedule for the remaining 13 defendants. As the legal process continues, the court will determine the next steps for the defendant’s detention. Observers are waiting to see if further administrative changes will occur within the Racha Thewa local government as a result of these judicial proceedings.