BANGKOK (Reuters) - A top official in Thailand’s palace has been fired for “extremely evil” misconduct and political interests which threatened national security, the government said on Tuesday. REUTERS/Athit Perawongmetha/File Photo

Police General Jumpol Manmai, who had served as intelligence chief under ousted former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, had until recently been one of the most senior figures in new King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s household. The government said in a statement that Gen Jumpol had "committed misconduct considered extremely evil behaviour" which did not befit a civil servant with a position close to the king. He abused his position to gain personal and political benefits which jeopardises security," read the palace order without revealing the specifics of the matter. He had political interests which were detrimental to national security and not trusted by the king," said a statement released by the Thai palace and duly signed by Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, a former junta ruler. With prison sentences of up to 15 years for any offence of insulting the monarchy, Thais are cautious of commenting on anything related to the palace. In recent years, King Maha Vajiralongkorn, who formally took over after the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, a widely revered figure with a demigod status, has been instrumental in firing several people, including senior members, from the inner circle of the palace. He has also been successful in making changes to the constitution, thanks to the junta-ruled government, since he ascended the throne in December 2016.
The Royal Thai Government has fired Police General Jumpol Manmai for "extremely evil" misconduct and political interests which threatened national security.