Lawyer Sitra Petcharod Demands Investigation into Army Drone Procurement

On November 12, 2026, lawyer Sitra Petcharod visited the Royal Thai Army Headquarters in Bangkok to submit a formal request for an investigation into the procurement of drones by the Yam Fao Phaendin Foundation. Sitra is calling for transparency regarding the foundation's claims that it purchased equipment at the specific request of the military, which allegedly cited budget constraints. The lawyer questioned how an organization with a budget exceeding 100 billion baht could require external assistance for such acquisitions, suggesting that these claims damage the reputation of the armed forces. He specifically requested the disclosure of the manufacturing companies involved and a detailed breakdown of price differences. Sitra also noted that the foundation claimed to have coordinated closely with former Second Army Area Commander General Boonsin Phadklang. For residents and visitors, this development highlights ongoing public scrutiny regarding military spending and transparency in Thailand. While the lawyer has promised a 'surprise' announcement on November 16 at the Ministry of Interior, the validity of the foundation's claims and the military's official response remain to be confirmed. The situation serves as a reminder of the active role civil society and legal professionals play in monitoring institutional accountability in the country.