Hunter becomes prey: Thailand's anti-corruption icon faces extortion accusation

13 Sept 11:42 Key points summarised by AI

Renowned anti-corruption activist Srisuwan Janya was arrested for allegedly extorting 1.5 million baht from a senior bureaucrat to conceal corruption in government projects, marking a dramatic reversal of his usual role as accuser.
The arrest was part of a sting operation, with two politicians also implicated as accomplices; all three deny the charges, claiming the accusations are retaliation from powerful figures threatened by Srisuwan's extensive history of petitions.
Known as "Thailand's complainer-in-chief," Srisuwan has filed hundreds of complaints over two decades, impacting major political figures and leading to significant outcomes, including the disbandment of the Future Forward Party.

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.