An army general, who is also the manager of the Lumpini boxing stadium, the scene of a COVID-19 cluster infection, and other army officers allegedly involved in the organizing of the March 6^th boxing championship matches, against expert health advice, have been transferred to inactive posts at the army headquarters, pending an investigation.

The temporary transfers of Maj-Gen Rachit Arunrangsi, head of the Army Welfare Department and manager of the boxing stadium, and the other officers, follows Army Commander-in-Chief General Apirat Kongsompong’s ordering of an investigation into the event, entitled Champion Kiatpetch, which drew about 6,000 spectators from various parts of the country.

Lt-Gen Ayuth Sriviset, head of the Army Personnel Department, has been appointed to head the investigation.

An informed army source said that the transfers enable the probe to proceed smoothly, adding that the army chief has assured that the investigation will be transparent and straightforward.

More than 50 people, including boxing officials and fans, including TV celebrity Matthew Deane and his wife, Lydia, and those closely associated with them, have been confirmed to have COVID-19.

Maj-Gen Rachit was also infected and is currently being treated at the Mongkutklao Hospital.