Driver faces charges after school bus fire

15 Sept 21:31 Key points summarised by AI

Driver Samarn, 48, surrendered to police after fleeing a fatal school bus fire in Pathum Thani that killed numerous schoolchildren.
Samarn claimed the accident occurred when he hit a pothole at 80 kph, causing a tire burst, a collision with a Mercedes Benz, and then a steel barrier that ignited the fire.
He admitted attempting to get a fire extinguisher but fled the scene due to being 'overwhelmed with shock'.
Police have filed four charges against Samarn, including reckless driving and fleeing the accident scene without helping victims or reporting to authorities.
Further charges may be added based on additional evidence from ongoing forensic investigations.

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.