Conscript triggers inquiry with 'forced driving' claim

The House committee on national security plans to look into allegations of exploitation within the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) following reports that an officer based in Udon Thani province forced a conscript to work as a taxi driver and pocketed most of his earnings.

- AEKARACH SATTABURUTH

People’s Party (PP) listMP Rangsiman Rome, who chairs the panel, said yesterday the conscript at the centre of the alleged exploitation was required to earn 3,000 baht a day from his taxi service.

He said this should not be treated as an offence that affects only one private individual.

"If it involves the use of power and the promise of financial benefits, I think action must be taken to prevent such a practice," Mr Rangsiman said.