Divers clear 500kg of ‘ghost nets’ from around Payang Island

12 Sept 08:37 Key points summarised by AI

Similan Islands National Park officials successfully removed a massive 500kg of 'ghost nets' – discarded fishing gear – during a Marine Smart Patrol near Payang Island.
The operation aimed to safeguard the Andaman Sea's fragile ecosystem, specifically targeting a biodiverse and vulnerable area on the eastern side of Payang Island.
Park chief Siriwat Suebsai emphasized that these 'ghost nets' pose a severe threat, destroying coral reefs, trapping marine life, and decomposing into harmful micro-plastics.
Officials urged fisher folk to be more mindful of their equipment, stressing the collective responsibility to protect Thailand's natural marine resources for future generations.

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.