China urges ASEAN states to fight cross-border crimes in show of new urgency

13 Sept 19:34 Key points summarised by AI

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi pressed ASEAN nations to aggressively combat online gambling and telecom fraud, emphasizing the threat to Chinese citizens and regional stability.
Beijing seeks urgent, enhanced law enforcement and security cooperation with ASEAN to tackle escalating cross-border crimes, including human trafficking.
The call follows high-profile incidents, such as a Chinese actor's suspected human trafficking near the Thai-Myanmar border, highlighting the severe risks to Chinese travelers.
Fraud syndicates are actively luring Chinese citizens with false job promises, trapping them in forced labor at telecom fraud dens in border areas like Myawaddy.
Thailand has pledged to "speed up the resolution" of these issues to safeguard its image as a secure tourism destination, recognizing the economic implications.

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.