SUNGAI GOLOK: The investigation involving the detention of the six Malaysians, including a female "dikir barat" singer at a hotel in Golok, is nearing completion.
District police chief Colonel Jedsadavit Ingprapan confirmed that authorities were now awaiting the results of fingerprint analysis and drug content tests before submitting a full report to the public prosecutor.
He said that the complete report would be forwarded as soon as all results are received, and the date for prosecution will be set accordingly.
"In this case, we are conducting not only urine drug tests but also a more in-depth investigation into the types of drugs used and the quantity of illicit substances in the suspects' systems," he said.
"Additionally, fingerprint analysis is being used to check whether any of the suspects have a criminal record in Thailand. As a result, the detention period has been extended to 84 days, or three months, which is standard for such cases."
However, Jedsadavit said that if sufficient evidence is gathered and the full report is completed, the prosecution date could be set sooner.
"The six suspects are allowed to apply to the Narathiwat Provincial Court if they wish to appoint a lawyer for their defence.
"For now, they are under the supervision of prison authorities, and I have been informed that they are well. Furthermore, detainees in Narathiwat Prison are treated equally, whether they are local or foreign," he said.
Jedsadavit said that the investigation would be conducted with transparency and thoroughness to ensure the best possible outcome in line with Thai law.
Earlier, media reports urged all parties to respect Thai law and allow the authorities to conduct their investigation into the detention of the six Malaysians in Sungai Golok, Narathiwat, on Nov 1.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail also said that since the suspects committed their offences in Thailand, the case fell under Thai jurisdiction.