Changed elevator shaft design may be behind SAO building collapse

11 Sept 16:36 Key points summarised by AI

Investigators attribute the State Audit Office (SAO) building's collapse during an earthquake to a design change that reduced the elevator shaft's wall thickness from 30cm to 25cm.
The ongoing probe will meticulously examine the elevator shaft's design, any modifications, the approval process, and the quality of construction materials.
Experts highlight the elevator shaft's critical function as the central core supporting the building, warning that reduced thickness could severely compromise structural integrity.
The incident prompts a broader call for reassessing elevator shafts in other Bangkok high-rises to ensure their resilience against future seismic activity.

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.