Myanmar junta to release nearly 6,000 prisoners in annual amnesty

14 Sept 09:37 Key points summarised by AI

Myanmar's junta announced the release of nearly 6,000 prisoners, including 180 foreigners, as part of its annual independence day amnesty.
The pardons, issued on "humanitarian and compassionate grounds," also commute life sentences for 144 individuals to 15 years.
This mass release follows the military's arrest of thousands of protesters and activists since its 2021 coup, continuing a tradition of holiday amnesties.
During the independence day ceremony, the junta's deputy chief urged ethnic armed groups to disarm and reiterated pledges for delayed democratic elections.

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.