Penalties sought for Buddhist monks and followers implicated in sex scandals

13 Sept 14:42 Key points summarised by AI

Thai authorities are considering reviving a bill to impose criminal penalties on Buddhist monks and lay followers involved in sex scandals, aiming to close a significant legal loophole.
This initiative follows a series of high-profile scandals implicating at least eight senior monks in intimate relationships with a female follower, identified as “Miss Golf.”
The proposed bill would introduce prison terms of one to seven years and fines ranging from 20,000 to 140,000 baht for both monks and lay individuals found guilty of sexual misconduct, a departure from current disciplinary actions like defrocking.

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.