Lawyer Sittra and wife charged with money laundering and fraud

19 Sept 21:49 Key points summarised by AI

Prominent Thai lawyer Sittra Biabungkerd and his wife were arrested by the Crime Suppression Division in Chachoengsao on charges of fraud and money laundering.
Police intercepted the couple's Porsche Cayenne, believing they were attempting to flee to a neighboring country to evade legal action.
Sittra faces multiple fraud complaints, including a significant 71 million baht alleged scam from a businesswoman involving an unfulfilled online gambling platform investment.
Authorities plan to seek a 12-day detention period and oppose bail for the couple, with Sittra denying the fraud, claiming the money was a personal gift.

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.