Business as usual in Mae Sai district as residents struggle with dust and smoke

13 Sept 12:40 Key points summarised by AI

Mae Sai district in Chiang Rai faces severe air pollution, with PM2.5 levels exceeding 710 microns, yet residents largely continue their daily routines, albeit mostly wearing face masks.
Local businesses are impacted, with some vendors noting customers opting for take-away due to the pervasive smoke, particularly at night.
A Chiang Rai Chamber of Commerce advisor urges the government to declare a state of emergency in Mae Sai to mobilize resources against the deteriorating air quality, attributing the problem to regional forest fires.
The Centre for Air Pollution Mitigation confirms excessive PM2.5 levels across numerous northern and north-eastern provinces, indicating a widespread environmental crisis.

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.