Court approves 'terrorism' charges against Thaksin

An arrest warrant for exiled former Thai premier Thaksin Shinawatra on terrorism charges was approved by a court on Tuesday. The closed hearing found that there was enough evidence to issue a warrant for the charges, which carry a maximum penalty of death.

Reuters

“Now it’s the attorney general’s job to enforce the warrant,” said Naras Savestanan, deputy chief of the Department of Special Investigation.

Thaksin has been accused by Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva’s government of inciting unrest and supporting the opposition “Red Shirts”.

The telecoms tycoon has been in exile since a coup in 2006 and insists that the terrorism charges are “politically motivated”.

“During my entire political career I have adhered to non-violence and the constitutional monarchy,” a statement from his legal advisor said.

He called the arrest warrant “unfair”, said he would prove he was not a “terrorist” and that the charges were politically inspired.

Although Thaksin could face the death penalty, Abhisit suggested that the court ruling could make extraditing him easier.

“We still have to monitor his movements and seek cooperation in line with existing agreements. As of now many countries are banning him, but not all,” Abhisit told reporters.

Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation said on Monday that they had submitted evidence to the court which showed “Thaksin’s coordinating role” in the Red Shirt anti-government protests.

Authorities announced on Tuesday that a curfew between midnight to 4am in Bangkok and 23 other provinces would be extended for another four nights.

Thaksin currently holds a Montenegro passport, but has reportedly been spotted in Paris.