Police probe anti-coup group

Police probe anti-coup group

Police have launched an investigation into the activities of the anti-coup movement set up by former Pheu Thai Party leader Charupong Ruangsuwan, national police deputy commissioner Ake Angsananond says.

The probe against the Organisation of Free Thais for Human Rights and Democracy (FT-HD) is headed by national police deputy chief Pol Gen Somyot Phumphanmuang, who is in charge of national security, he said yesterday.

Mr Charupong, who is wanted by the coup-makers for defying a summons order, announced the formation of the organisation in a YouTube clip on Tuesday.

Jakrapob Penkair, a fugitive former PM’s Office minister who fled lese majeste charges, announced its formation in English. The group is thought to be based in a neighbouring country.

Investigators will meet today at the Metropolitan Police Bureau to discuss the issue, Pol Gen Somyot said.

Mr Charupong's YouTube clip will be reviewed by a legal team to decide whether it violates any laws.

The FT-HD aims to draw together dissidents at home and abroad to push for the restoration of democratic rule.

The group said it is seeking to work with the international community to put pressure on the military to return democracy to Thailand and its people.

ACM Prajin Juntong, deputy chief of the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO), said the military is keeping a close watch on the FT-HD and more information is expected in coming days.

ACM Prajin said there has been no indication that former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra is involved.

He said the ex-premier has kept a low profile since the May 22 coup and was not expressing views.

Only people close to Thaksin have expressed their opinion on the coup, he noted.

The NCPO deputy chief also said it is too early to say whether the new anti-coup movement will try to form a government in exile.

NCPO spokesman Winthai Suvaree yesterday played down the FT-HD launch, saying it is unlikely to undermine the military's efforts to conduct national reform.

Col Winthai said the public understands the political situation, but he admitted the NCPO may have to do more to promote a better understanding of the coup among the international community.

Col Weerachon Sukhonpatiphak, also a junta deputy spokesman, said the coup-makers would inform the international community that both Mr Charupong and Mr Jakrapob are facing criminal charges. He said the military will follow proper channels in seeking legal action against the pair, who are thought to be hiding overseas.

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