Sittra Biebangkerd, Popularly Known as ‘Lawyer Tum,’ Arrested for Fraud
Background
On Sunday, January 29, 2023, the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) apprehended Sittra Biebangkerd, a well-known attorney, on charges of fraud and embezzlement. Lawyer Tum, as he is popularly known, was detained on a highway as he was leaving Bangkok.
Circumstances of the Arrest
According to the CSD, Sittra was arrested following a raid on a residence in Bangkok's Bang Khae district. The raid was carried out after police received complaints from numerous victims alleging that the lawyer had defrauded them of substantial sums of money.
Police confiscated several items from Sittra at the time of his arrest, including a Mercedes-Benz sedan, a luxury watch, and a mobile phone. These items are being investigated as potential evidence in the fraud case.
Charges Against Sittra and Allegations
Sittra is facing charges of fraud, embezzlement, and forgery. The police allege that he swindled money from clients by promising to represent them in legal cases but failing to do so or deliberately misrepresenting their legal positions.
Some victims claim that Sittra took money from them to invest in a condominium project but failed to deliver on his promises. Others allege that he forged documents to support his clients' cases and charged exorbitant fees for his services.
Sittra’s Response and Legal Proceedings
Sittra has denied the allegations of fraud and embezzlement. He claims that the charges are politically motivated and that he will prove his innocence in court.
Sittra is currently being held at the CSD headquarters in Bangkok. He is scheduled to appear in court for a remand hearing on Monday, January 30, 2023.
The CSD is continuing its investigation into Sittra's activities. They are examining financial records and interviewing victims and witnesses to gather evidence in the case.
Conclusion
The arrest of Sittra Biebangkerd, also known as Lawyer Tum, has sent shockwaves through the Thai legal community and the public. The allegations of fraud and embezzlement against him have raised serious concerns about corruption within the profession.
The ongoing investigation and legal proceedings will determine Sittra's guilt or innocence. However, the case has already damaged the reputation of the legal profession and highlighted the need for stricter measures to prevent fraud and protect clients' interests.
