Rare leopard cub seized in Mae Sot sting operation

13 Sept 02:58 Key points summarised by AI

Police apprehended two Myanmar nationals in Mae Sot for attempting to smuggle a seven-month-old black leopard cub, initially misdeclared as a 'cat' during shipment.
The sting operation, a coordinated effort by multiple agencies, tracked the protected animal from Bangkok to a hand-off point in Mae Sot.
Preliminary investigations reveal a sophisticated transnational wildlife smuggling network, coordinating operations via Facebook across Vietnam, Cambodia, and Myanmar, with Shwe Kokko as the destination.
The suspects denied charges, claiming ignorance of the animal's species and stating they were paid 25,000 baht for delivery; they face charges under the Wild Animal Conservation and Protection Act.
The leopard cub is now under professional care at a wildlife rescue center, while authorities launch a full investigation to dismantle the smuggling network.

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.