‘Over my dead body’: The locals fighting a 20-year battle against Udon Thani potash mine plan

23 Sept 06:37 Key points summarised by AI

Udon Thani locals, led by 75-year-old Manee Boonrod, have waged a 20-year battle against Asia Pacific Potash Corporation's (APPC) planned mine, citing grave concerns over environmental damage and health impacts.
The Thai government supports the APPC mine, which holds a 25-year license, projecting it will significantly reduce potash imports (saving 7 billion baht annually) and generate substantial revenue (29.5 billion baht) for the country.
Residents fear the mine will cause land subsidence, air pollution, and infertile soil, drawing parallels to problems observed at Thailand's first potash mine in Nakhon Ratchasima, despite APPC's environmental impact assessment (EIA).
The Udon Thani Environment Conservation Group questions the legitimacy of the license, as a dispute over the mine's land-rights documents and EIA remains before the Supreme Administrative Court.
Locals, joined by youths and environmentalists, are resolute in their opposition, vowing to fight the project to the very end to protect their hometown and traditional way of life.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Today 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.