Chinese student found in US woods after 'cyber kidnapping' scam

14 Sept 05:35 Key points summarised by AI

Chinese exchange student Kai Zhuang, 17, was found alive but "cold and scared" in a Utah wilderness tent after being coerced in a "cyber kidnapping" scam.
Scammers manipulated Zhuang into isolating himself and faking his abduction, then sent fabricated photos to his parents in China, extorting $80,000.
Police located Zhuang after a days-long search, finding him with minimal supplies, emphasizing the dangerous conditions he endured.
Authorities are warning about a rise in "virtual kidnapping" schemes, particularly targeting foreign exchange students from China.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Yesterday 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.