The Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases dismissed the charges today (Tuesday) filed by former director-general of the National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department Rutchada Suriyakul na Ayutya against seven officials who raided his office, because he was allegedly demanding bribes from his subordinates.

Rutchada accused the seven officials, including Chaiwat Limlikhitaksorn, director of Protected Areas Region Office 9 and commander of the Counter Corruption Division police of malfeasance in office, depriving him of his freedom, presenting false evidence against him, intrusion into his office and criminal association.

He claimed that the officials hatched a plot to lure him into taking bribes from his subordinates and recorded the event on video, which was distributed to the media in a way which damaged his reputation.

The court ruled that the seven officials merely performed their duty lawfully when they raided his office on December 27^th.  About five million baht in cash was found in his office by the police.

Rutchada’s lawyer told the media that he would study the court’s verdict before deciding whether to appeal within 30 days.

After his arrest, Rutchada was temporarily relieved of his duty as the department’s chief pending the trial.