AI In-brief 13 Sept 05:50

The inside story of Bangkok Remand Prison as it prepares to welcome Thaksin

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, 74, is scheduled to return from self-imposed exile on August 10 to face 12 years in prison for various past convictions.
He is expected to be detained at Bangkok Remand Prison, a facility built in 1890 with a long history of correctional services.
Authorities deny Thaksin will receive VIP treatment, but acknowledge he may be handled differently due to his age, health concerns, safety risks, and anticipated high volume of visitors, with the right to seek a royal pardon.
The prison, often called a 'mystery zone,' faces claims from former inmates about special treatment for VIP convicts, including separate air-conditioned rooms and personal guards, which officials vehemently deny.

Thailand News in Brief