Bangkok: The government has refuted claims made by the "shadow cabinet" regarding corruption in China and its nominees, emphasizing its commitment to tackling such issues and urging that criminal information should not be manipulated for political purposes.
According to Thai News Agency, the Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, addressed criticism from Mr. Natthapong Ruangpanyawut and Mr. Piyarat Jongthep of the People's Party's "Shadow Cabinet" concerning transnational crime and nominee networks linked to China. She assured that the government listens to security suggestions, but many criticisms do not reflect the proactive measures already in place.
The deputy spokesperson detailed that under Prime Minister Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, the government has actively addressed transnational crime, targeting Chinese organized crime, nominee networks, and foreign influence. She emphasized that the government has not ignored issues but has increased investigations, exposing illegal networks.
In the case involving Mr. Sun Mingchen in Chonburi province, the government expanded a traffic incident into a broader investigation leading to multiple arrests and revealing illegal activities, including weapons trafficking and nominee networks. Similarly, in Sa Kaeo province, police officers involved in kidnapping a Chinese national have been dismissed and face criminal charges, demonstrating the government's zero-tolerance policy for corruption within its ranks.
The government has also taken steps to curb misuse of foundations, schools, or nominee shareholdings for luxury real estate purchases by revoking certain visa provisions and ordering a comprehensive review of the visa system and legal entities' financial transactions. The government has collaborated with various departments to expand investigations into suspicious nominee networks.
Ms. Periswiwatana urged the opposition to provide any evidence of nominee companies or criminal networks directly to law enforcement agencies for prompt action, rather than disclosing it through media, which could compromise investigations.
The deputy spokesperson acknowledged that foreign nominee issues are longstanding but stated that the current government is the first to conduct in-depth investigations beyond routine checks. She emphasized the importance of accurate public communication to prevent misunderstandings about the nation's security measures and the dedication of officials.
The government is determined to enforce laws fairly and prevent Thailand from becoming a refuge for transnational criminals, affirming its commitment to thorough and decisive action against crime.