13 experts to execute tests on GT200 bomb detectors

BANGKOK, 3 February 2010 (NNT)- A group of experts and academics will be invited to conduct a test on the effectiveness of the controversial GT200 bomb detectors on 4 February, according to Minister of Science and Technology Khunying Kalaya Sophonpanich.

Khunying Kalaya disclosed today that the 13-member committee, comprising academics and representatives from the military, police, and the National Statistical Office, is scheduled to meet tomorrow to lay down the operative framework and related rules on the testing system. The working panel, which has been entrusted to run the test, is given two weeks to complete the task. The team will be meeting again on 8-9 February to monitor the progress of the investigation and review the findings.

Meanwhile, Dr Pansak Siriratchatapong, Director of the National Electronics and Computer Technology Center and member of the committee revealed that the tests will be scientifically conducted both in laboratories and in the field with the presence of news media, in order for them to witness the effectiveness and help restore public confidence on the British-made GT200 explosive detectors.

The Cabinet on Tuesday assigned the Ministry of Science and Technology to lead the test of GT200 bomb detectors to prove its efficiency due to mounting criticism over the reliability and capabilities of the bomb detecting equipment by foreign news agencies and local academics. Reports said the device could not sniff out the explosives as claimed by the manufacturer. However, all local agencies using the device initially reconfirmed its effectiveness.