PM distances himself from Mauerberger as old group photo resurfaces

12 Sept 18:00 Key points summarised by AI

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul acknowledged knowing Benjamin Mauerberger (Ben Smith) but denied any close relationship, following the viral resurfacing of an old group photo featuring them.
The controversial picture, taken about a decade ago in Singapore, gained traction after the PM announced a major crackdown on Thai networks linked to Cambodia-based scam syndicates.
Anutin hinted at political motivations behind the photo's release and implied he had previously blocked Mauerberger's application for Thai citizenship, challenging the idea of Mauerberger being 'untouchable'.
The ongoing scam crackdown has led to the impoundment of 10 billion baht in assets, including a yacht co-owned by Mauerberger's family, linking him to the alleged Cambodian scam kingpin Yim Leak.

Public expects most Kla Tham MPs to back Cabinet in censure vote, NIDA Poll finds

Yesterday 12:30 Key points summarised by AI

A recent NIDA poll indicates that a plurality of the public (30.38%) anticipates Kla Tham Party MPs will vote to support all 18 cabinet ministers targeted in the upcoming no-confidence debate.
Respondents believe the Ministry of Interior (38.78%) and the Prime Minister’s Office (21.37%) will face the toughest questioning during the censure debate.
Economic issues, particularly alleged incompetence in addressing problems (34.27%) and the rising cost of living (25.88%), are cited as the primary concerns for the government during the censure.
The public holds high expectations for the Opposition's case, with 45.65% believing clear, concrete evidence will be presented against all 18 ministers, and 41.22% expecting substantial evidence against specific ministers.