Bangkok: The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has detained Mr. Chuanling Zhang, director of China Railway Co., Ltd., on charges related to using a nominee. Mr. Zhang, a Chinese national and director of China Railway Number 10 (Thailand) Co., Ltd., was apprehended at a luxury hotel in the Ratchadaphisek area. The arrest follows the issuance of a warrant by the Criminal and Special Cases Court, citing violations of the Foreign Business Act of 1999. He is accused of engaging in prohibited business activities for aliens and complicity in related offenses.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Zhang was taken to the Criminal Court on Ratchadaphisek Road for his first detention request. He has denied all charges, asserting that he is a representative of a Chinese state enterprise investing in Thailand on behalf of the Chinese government. Despite his denial, the DSI is intensifying its investigation, particularly focusing on the alleged use of Thai nominees in the business operations.
Mr. Zhang maintained an indifferent demeanor upon arrival at the court, refusing to comment on whether he hired Thai nationals as nominees. The DSI's comprehensive investigation continues, as the complexity of the case and the involvement of foreign nationals raise concerns about potential flight risks. The court will decide on granting bail, considering these factors.
Pol. Lt. Col. Woranan Srilam, the DSI's spokesperson, stated that Mr. Zhang affirmed his role as a Chinese state enterprise official and acknowledged his 49% shareholding in the company. Although he admitted knowing the three Thai directors, he refrained from providing further information about their involvement as nominees.
The DSI is actively pursuing leads on the Thai directors, believed to be in Thailand, and is scrutinizing their financial activities. It was revealed that the directors borrowed 2 billion baht from Chinese sources, despite lacking the financial capacity or expertise to run such a business. The investigation aims to uncover the origins of these funds and the directors' roles in the company.
DSI officials emphasize their commitment to a balanced investigation, allowing the accused to present evidence or explanations to refute the charges. As the investigation expands, additional arrest warrants may be issued, and witnesses are being summoned for daily questioning.
Furthermore, Mr. Zhang confirmed during initial interrogations that the Chinese state enterprise has approved compensation of approximately 120 million baht for victims affected by the collapse of the Office of the Auditor General building. Coordination with the Ministry of Justice is underway to facilitate the compensation process. Mr. Zhang's lawyer, alongside a representative from China Railway Company, has prepared cash collateral of around 1 million baht for temporary bail, pending the court's decision.