Hit-and-run case: New focus on police forensic expert

13 Sept 11:00 Key points summarised by AI

Police forensic expert Lt. Col. Thanasit Taengchan faces renewed scrutiny for his pivotal role in the hit-and-run case involving Red Bull heir Vorayuth Yoovidhya.
Thanasit initially estimated Vorayuth's car speed at 177 km/h but controversially revised it to 77 km/h in 2016, four years after the incident, based on an estimate from an engineer introduced by an unidentified person.
This revised speed, along with questionable witness accounts, formed the sole basis for the public prosecutor's decision to drop reckless driving charges against Vorayuth.
Thanasit later expressed doubts about the revised estimate and attempted to re-include his original findings and another expert's matching 177 km/h estimate, but was told it was too late as the report had been submitted.
Now testifying before a House committee, Thanasit is seen as holding a key to uncovering potential interference in the investigation process, with concerns raised about his safety.

Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties

Today 16:46 Key points summarised by AI

A dinner between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham party leaders sparked rumors of a potential merger, though Bhumjaithai's leader, Anutin, downplayed it as a casual meal.
The meeting is widely interpreted as a strategic message from Bhumjaithai to the Pheu Thai party, signaling alternative support ahead of an upcoming no-confidence debate.
Thailand's Constitution (Section 99) currently prohibits direct mergers of parties with sitting MPs during the House's term, a rule designed to prevent the 'buying and selling' of MPs.
While direct mergers are restricted, MPs can still switch parties if dismissed by a three-fourths party vote or if their party dissolves, allowing for indirect political realignments.
Kla Tham's voting behavior in the censure debate will demonstrate its loyalty to the government, potentially influencing future political dynamics despite current merger restrictions.