ID :
107329
Thu, 02/18/2010 - 20:15
Auther :
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http://m.oananews.org//node/107329
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Army still using GT200 bomb detector in restive South: Thai army chief
BANGKOK, Feb 18 (TNA) - Despite recent test results showing the poor performance of GT200 bomb detector, Thailand's Army chief on Thursday said the device is now being used in the insurgency-impacted southern border region, saying the government has not banned its use and has provided no alternative device to operational officers in the field.
Speaking at a news conference, Gen Anupong Paochinda said his subordinates in the southern border provinces of Yala Pattani and Narathiwat have successfully carried out field operations and saved people's lives with the work of GT200.
"Operational army officers are confident that it really works after more than 300 operations executed succesfully. Procurement was approved according to their demand," Gen Anupong said.
"If not approved, how could I see them face to face in case any loss of life occurs?," he asked.
The army chief reiterated that the Army neither contradicted the government nor opposed the scientific testing, but emphasised that the Army is obliged to use the GT200 for the time being in the absence of any alternative device, and the government has not banned its use.
Gen Anupong said the National Counter-Corruption Commission or other independent agencies are welcome to scrutinise if any irregularities found in the army's procurements. Anyone found guilty will not be spared so that the public can be assured about the army's transparency
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said he has asked Defence Minister Gen Prawit Wongsuwan to clarify the matter to the operational military personnel and speed up how to adjust field operations without the use of the GT200.
"The subordinates must be informed that they will operate the device at a high level of risk, To continue using it only increase risk to all parties concerned and that might violate personal rights," the prime minister stated.
Mr Abhisit announced on Tuesday scrapping GT200 orders, saying the device could not be considered effective since it failed crucial performance test. It found the explosives only four times out of 20. (TNA)
Speaking at a news conference, Gen Anupong Paochinda said his subordinates in the southern border provinces of Yala Pattani and Narathiwat have successfully carried out field operations and saved people's lives with the work of GT200.
"Operational army officers are confident that it really works after more than 300 operations executed succesfully. Procurement was approved according to their demand," Gen Anupong said.
"If not approved, how could I see them face to face in case any loss of life occurs?," he asked.
The army chief reiterated that the Army neither contradicted the government nor opposed the scientific testing, but emphasised that the Army is obliged to use the GT200 for the time being in the absence of any alternative device, and the government has not banned its use.
Gen Anupong said the National Counter-Corruption Commission or other independent agencies are welcome to scrutinise if any irregularities found in the army's procurements. Anyone found guilty will not be spared so that the public can be assured about the army's transparency
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said he has asked Defence Minister Gen Prawit Wongsuwan to clarify the matter to the operational military personnel and speed up how to adjust field operations without the use of the GT200.
"The subordinates must be informed that they will operate the device at a high level of risk, To continue using it only increase risk to all parties concerned and that might violate personal rights," the prime minister stated.
Mr Abhisit announced on Tuesday scrapping GT200 orders, saying the device could not be considered effective since it failed crucial performance test. It found the explosives only four times out of 20. (TNA)
