Financial Crime World

Bhutanese Official Detained in Connection with Bangkok Embezzlement Case

Background

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has detained Chenda Tobgye, a former head of chancery at the Bhutanese embassy in Bangkok, in connection with an ongoing investigation into a massive embezzlement scandal. The case revolves around alleged misappropriation of funds meant for medical treatment of VIP Bhutanese government patients at six major hospitals in Bangkok.

Investigation Timeline

  • November 2011: The ACC received the case from the Foreign Ministry after prima facie evidence of corruption was discovered.
  • April 2011: A two-member investigation team was sent to Bangkok, which discovered that Nu 18mn (approximately 12mn bhat) had not been paid to the hospitals. The amount included bills from several private individuals who were not sent by the government and have yet to be identified.

Ministry of Finance Intervention

In an effort to save the country’s image, the Ministry of Finance released Nu 13mn as funds for outstanding medical bills in Bangkok, which was routed through the Bhutanese embassy in Bangkok. However, this move has raised eyebrows, with many questioning why the ministry chose to release the funds without proper accountability and transparency.

Complications in the Case

Chenda Tobgye, who was responsible for clearing the bills, had claimed to have suffered from “memory loss” and was hospitalized for brain fever. This bizarre development has complicated the case, as he was in charge of a special medical budget account managed by him.

Current Developments

  • Chenda Tobgye was transferred back to the Foreign Ministry in Thimphu after completing his term at the embassy, where he worked as a protocol officer before being suspended on December 1, 2011.
  • The ministry had initially released Nu 18mn as funds for outstanding medical bills in Bangkok, but this amount will have to be refunded or accounted for by Chenda Tobgye.

Concerns and Implications

The case has raised concerns about corruption and lack of accountability within the Bhutanese government, particularly in relation to the handling of public funds meant for medical treatment. The ACC is currently investigating the matter further to determine the extent of the embezzlement and hold those responsible accountable.

Key Points

  • Chenda Tobgye, former head of chancery at the Bhutanese embassy in Bangkok, has been detained by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) in connection with an ongoing investigation into a massive embezzlement scandal.
  • The case involves alleged misappropriation of funds meant for medical treatment of VIP Bhutanese government patients at six major hospitals in Bangkok.
  • The Ministry of Finance released Nu 13mn as funds for outstanding medical bills in Bangkok, but this move has raised eyebrows due to lack of transparency and accountability.