Navy petty officer among three questioned over Chinese arsenal in Pattaya

14 Sept 04:00 Key points summarised by AI

Police are questioning a Royal Thai Navy chief petty officer and two civilians in connection with a significant cache of war weapons found at a Chinese national's luxury house in Pattaya.
The individuals, identified as 'Kachen' (a shooting instructor), Chief Petty Officer 'Methee', and 'Chamrong' (linked to a bank account), are implicated in the alleged procurement and sale of assault rifles.
The Chinese suspect, Ming Chen Sun, claims the extensive military arsenal was for self-harm, but police have dismissed this explanation due to the weapons' quantity and destructive capability.
The investigation is expanding to at least five individuals involved in the weapons network, with two more suspects, including an active-duty military officer, still being sought, alongside probes into the origin of a handgun and potential spousal involvement.

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.