Activists fear dredging may worsen Kok River contamination

13 Sept 09:09 Key points summarised by AI

Environmental groups in Chiang Rai warn that the municipality's plan to dredge the Kok River could exacerbate existing heavy metal contamination and damage the river's ecosystem.
Experts highlight that dredging offers only temporary relief from sedimentation and raises critical questions about the safe disposal of sediments already tainted with heavy metals from Myanmar's gold mining.
A university lecturer confirms the Kok River is contaminated with over nine types of heavy metals, urging authorities to reconsider the project due to the high risk of spreading toxic substances.
The Chiang Rai municipality defends the 223 million baht dredging project as essential for deepening the river and improving water flow, citing the devastating 2024 flood.
Local businesses along the river have already closed due to public concerns over contamination, underscoring the river's current ecological and economic distress.

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.