Colonel and Doctor Accused of B80m Medical Fraud at Veterans Hospital

Police have arrested a retired colonel and a doctor from the Veterans General Hospital on charges of embezzlement involving the resale of overprescribed medication worth approximately 80 million baht.

The suspects, Col Kanyarat Jitprasong, 59, and Dr. Barinda Ujawathee, were taken into custody on Wednesday morning during coordinated police raids at 17 locations across Bangkok, Chon Buri, Lop Buri, and Prachin Buri.

Alleged Scheme and Arrests

According to sources, police apprehended Col Kanyarat at her residence in the Kiakkai area, while Dr. Barinda was arrested at her home on Lat Phrao 71 Road. Both had been affiliated with the Veterans General Hospital, though Col Kanyarat had previously retired from Phramongkutklao Hospital.

Authorities allege that Col Kanyarat orchestrated a scheme in which she arranged for individuals in Lop Buri province to seek treatment from Dr. Barinda at the Veterans General Hospital. Dr. Barinda then reportedly misdiagnosed these patients and prescribed excessive amounts of medication.

The dispensed medicine was allegedly stored at a laundry shop on Rama IV Road in Bangkok before being distributed to pharmacies across multiple provinces for resale.

Ongoing Investigation

Gen Detnitit Luangngamkum, director-general of the War Veterans Organization of Thailand, had previously alerted authorities to suspected medical fraud, which is believed to have started in 2018.

Investigators estimate the total damage at 80 million baht, with about 40 million baht allegedly transferred into bank accounts controlled by Col Kanyarat.

Police continue to investigate the case, gathering evidence and tracking the financial trail of the illicit operation.