The Department of Health Service Support (DHS) and police inspected a nursing home for the elderly in Nonthaburi province and found no evidence of shackling.
At 15:00 on October 7, Mr. Phra Thep Lom Prom, Director of the Health Business Operation Division, DHS, Mr. Supachai Singho, Director of the 4th Health Service Support Center (HSSC4), and police officers from the Nonthaburi City Police Station visited a nursing home and rehabilitation center for psychiatric patients and Alzheimer’s patients in Talat Kwan Subdistrict, Mueang District, Nonthaburi Province.
The initial inspection found 81 male psychiatric patients and elderly residents living in a three-story building with a large hall. Each room had about 15 beds, with patients’ feet touching each other. There was a shared bathroom, and the doors were locked to prevent escape.
Officials did not find any evidence of shackling as previously reported. A thorough inspection of the area also did not reveal any shackling devices. The inspection of licenses showed that the facility had permission to care for 9 elderly residents but not for psychiatric patients. There was no psychiatrist or specialized nurse overseeing the care.
This matter will be handled by the police according to the law. A more detailed inspection will be conducted tomorrow. If any violations are found, legal action will be taken, and the facility will coordinate with the patients’ families to arrange their return.