Seven Pathum Thani provincial police officers have been transferred to inactive posts at the provincial police command, pending the outcome of an investigation into allegations that they raped a drug suspect and demanded 300,000 baht in bribes from her in exchange for dropping drug dealing charges.

Pol Lt-Gen Jirasan Kaewsang-ek, commissioner of the Region 1 Provincial Police Bureau, said today that the allegations against the seven officers, attached to Pratunam Chulalongkorn police station, are serious, affecting the image of the police and public safety.

He said that police have already questioned the female, who claims that the alleged rape and bribe demand took place on November 22^nd and 23^rd, while she was in police custody in Pathum Thani province.

He added that initial findings show the victim was charged with drug trafficking, but there is no evidence yet to support the victim’s accusations against the officers.

He offered an assurance, however, that if the victim’s allegations are substantiated, stiff disciplinary and criminal action will be taken against the offenders.

For the time being, both sides will be treated with equal fairness, said the commissioner.