Thai politician hospitalised after hunger strike amid money laundering probe
Embattled politician Samart Janechaijittawanich has been whisked to hospital following a four-day hunger strike while under detention.
The saga unfolded late yesterday as Samart ensnared in a money laundering scandal linked to The iCon Group, was transferred to the Department of Corrections Hospital, confirming fears for his health.
Samart, apprehended earlier this week in the northern province of Chiang Rai, showed signs of extreme fatigue and weakness after stubbornly refusing food. While in detention, he avoided solid nourishment, relying solely on water to stave off dehydration.
Despite his self-imposed starvation, he reported no abdominal pain, though his physical state was visibly deteriorating.
Department of Corrections spokesperson, Kanokwan Jiewcheauphan, painted a picture of a man on the brink.
“He experienced fatigue and weakness after almost four days without food, compounded by high levels of stress.”
Forged document
The scandal intensifies as investigators from the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) continue to probe allegations surrounding the iCon Group. On Monday, November 25, they raided Samart’s abode in Bangkok’s Taling Chan district and his mother’s residence in the Ratchathewi district. During these searches, a potentially game-changing document was unearthed.
A source intimately connected to the investigation divulged that this controversial document could be a forgery devised to exonerate Samart from claims of receiving a staggering 100 million baht from iCon’s CEO, Warathaphon Waratyaworrakul, infamously known as Boss Paul.
Intriguingly, the document, dated November 12, bears Warathaphon’s signature penned during his own time behind bars, said a source.
“DSI found a document that they believe was fabricated to get Samart off the hook over allegations of receiving around 100 million baht from iCon CEO Warathaphon.”
Bangkok Post reported the document allegedly claims that Warathaphon had provided Samart with loans, which had been fully repaid. It outlines financial transactions purportedly wired to Samart’s mother’s bank account over 12 instances, amounting to 2.2 million baht, with assertions that the debt was cleared in cash, added the source.
“The document also contained Warathaphon’s acknowledgement that Samart had already repaid all the loans he received.”
Despite the audacious claims presented in the document, the DSI remains unconvinced of its validity. Investigators continue to pursue rigorous scrutiny of the document’s authenticity as part of their relentless quest for the truth in this high-stakes financial caper.
With the political stakes running high and public interest piqued, this frenzied episode adds another layer to the convoluted narrative surrounding Samart Janechaijittawanich and The iCon Group.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why might a politician resort to a hunger strike while in detention?
A hunger strike can be a form of protest or a way to draw attention to perceived injustices.
How can alleged forged documents impact legal cases involving politicians?
Forged documents can complicate investigations, potentially obstruct justice or influence public perception.
What if the document found by the DSI is authentic?
If authentic, it could provide evidence of financial transactions, possibly affecting the case’s outcome.
What are the implications of discovering fabricated documents in high-profile cases?
Fabricated documents can undermine legal processes, erode trust, and complicate investigations.
How does stress impact individuals in high-stakes legal situations like Samart’s?
Stress can lead to physical and mental health issues, affecting decision-making and overall well-being.
