President of the State Inspection Authority, Dr Khamphanh Phommathat, reports at the ongoing National Assembly session on Wednesday (Nov 27, 2024). - Photo: Vientiane Times
VIENTIANE: Four corruption cases involving over 115 billion kip, 3.2 million baht, US$25.6 million, and 7.8 million yuan have been identified and investigated this year, according to a report by the State Inspection Authority.
The President of the State Inspection Authority, Dr Khamphanh Phommathat, presented the findings during the ongoing National Assembly session on Wednesday (Nov 27).
He revealed that the inspection identified 208 individuals as suspects, of whom 40 have been prosecuted, including two foreigners. 39 suspects are currently in detention, while 158 have faced disciplinary actions.
So far, authorities have recovered funds of over 63.6 billion kip, 200,000 baht, US$4,700, and 5.19 million yuan.
However, a significant amount, worth almost 51.5 billion kip, 3 million baht, US$25.6 million, and 2.63 million yuan, still needs to be collected.
Additionally, two cases are still under investigation, with estimated losses of over 300 million kip and US$10 million.
In these cases, four individuals have been identified as suspects, all of whom have been prosecuted.
Three of the suspects are in detention, while one remains at large. Despite these challenges, the authority has successfully recovered over US$10 million and 100 million kip from these cases.
Dr Khamphanh emphasised that the State Inspection Authority operates in compliance with the mandates and resolutions of the National Assembly, particularly in fighting corruption and addressing economic and financial challenges.
He reaffirmed the authority’s commitment to implementing the national agenda to tackle economic and financial issues by strengthening inspection and investigation efforts.
He also highlighted the importance of collaboration with relevant parties to recover embezzled funds.
The inspection body proposed that the National Assembly approve a total budget of 20 billion kip for the implementation of its 2025 plan.
This budget would cover the purchase of vehicles, office equipment, and provincial inspection activities. - Vientiane Times/ANN
