Ex-Fox execs go on trial in soccer TV rights bribery case

14 Sept 01:58 Key points summarised by AI

Former Fox executives Hernan Lopez and Carlos Martinez are on trial, accused of bribing South American soccer officials for TV rights to the Copa Libertadores tournament.
Prosecutors allege these multi-million dollar bribes secured favorable, below-market contracts and provided Fox with confidential information, aiding its World Cup broadcast bids and expanding its market influence.
The defense argues the executives are being framed by their former business partner, Alejandro Burzaco, a cooperating witness who they claim secretly orchestrated the bribes and is now falsely accusing them for personal gain.
This trial is the latest development in the sprawling FIFA corruption scandal, which has already seen numerous individuals and corporate entities plead guilty or be convicted.

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.