No-man's land bootleggers 'open as usual' despite Myanmar clashes

14 Sept 05:11 Key points summarised by AI

A bustling market in the 'no-man's land' between Mae Sot, Thailand, and Myawaddy, Myanmar, remains open and active despite intense fighting and shelling near the border.
Vendors continue to sell bootlegged whisky, Chinese aphrodisiacs, and Burmese cigarettes, with customers exchanging cash over barbed wire separating the two countries.
Despite expressing fear over the ongoing clashes, local traders emphasize the necessity of earning a living, with some even providing shelter to Myanmar residents fleeing the violence, underscoring the market's resilience amidst turmoil.

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.