International crime-fighters to meet in Phuket

PHUKET: Phuket will host an international crime-fighting convention next month targeting money laundering and transfer of ownership of Phuket land to people or organizations overseas.

The seminar, being organized by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), will feature experts from anti-money-laundering organizations such as the Ministry of Justice in Switzerland. Among them will be Peter Ritchie, senior adviser of the International Crime – Policy & Engagement Branch of the Attorney-General’s Department in Australia.

“If money or properties are transferred abroad, then it’s hard to get them back because we cannot take direct action. We can use formal channels involving foreign affairs officials and the Attorney General, but the process has many steps and is quite slow,” explained NACC Assistant Secretary-General Chairat Khanittabutr.

“Our country’s image with respect to corruption is not getting any better, and corruption in Thailand is becoming more complex,” Mr Chairat explained.

“And according to our information, Phuket has a big problem with corruption, especially related to land encroachment,” he added.

About 150 delegates are expected to join the event, to be held at the JW Marriott Resort & Spa in Mai Khao from July 9-12.

“About 70 delegates will be from abroad and about 50 Thai officers from anti-corruption organizations and 20 officers from other relevant agencies are expected to attend,” Mr Chairat said.

“There will also be discussions on reducing poverty and stimulating economic growth, with speakers from the World Bank headquarters in Washington, DC,” he added.

All delegates will receive souvenir batik shirts from the NACC, said Mr Chairat.

— Atchaa Khamlo