Court clears five senior monks of money laundering charges
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published : 15 Apr 2021 at 04:00
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Five former senior monks have been cleared of money laundering charges in connection with the temple fund embezzlement scandal, said a source.
The monks who attended a rite organised at Wat Sa Ket temple in Bangkok on Tuesday to reinstate them into the monkhood were Phra Phrom Sitthi, Phra Ratchakitchaphon, Phra Ratcha-uppasenaphon, Phra Sikhunaphon and Phra Khru Siriwihan, said the source. They were acquitted in the money-laundering case and their money was returned to them after it was earlier frozen during an investigation.
Former auditor-general Pisit Leelavachiropas, in his capacity as a member of the Maha Chulalongkorn Rajavidyalaya University council, has previously confirmed that the monks had strictly adhered to rules and regulations while they were in jail. He added that police and public prosecutors hadn t ordered the monks, who are at Wat Sam
9 incredible views in Bangkok
For a city that is so flat, the Thai capital has no shortage of stunning vistas, whether you’re at street level or in a rooftop bar
1. Lebua at State Tower
Lebua at State Tower (Ariane Hoehne/Shutterstock)
Expect airport-style security at this glitzy skyscraper, which is home to the Lebua hotel. Exit the lift on the 64th floor and you’ll step out onto an open-air staircase that descends to the restaurant Sirocco. But first you’ll notice the lit-up Sky Bar.
Cocktails such as Hangovertinis – created in homage to
Hangover 2, which was filmed here – are priced as high as you are standing, but the views make this extravagant treat worth it. This is one of the world’s highest rooftop bars, with 360-degree views of Bangkok. As you sip your cocktail you can appreciate the snake-like curves of the Chao Phraya River meandering through the city 250m below.
Court comes under fire for bail refusal
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Law experts unite for protest leaders
published : 13 Feb 2021 at 06:00
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Some 126 law academics and legal experts have issued a statement condemning a court decision denying bail for protest leaders. We are of the strong opinion that a person s right to bail is a crucial principle that the judicial institution which has legal, social and humanitarian duties and is the final beacon of hope for the people must uphold to support the basic rights and freedom of the people, the statement said.
The 126 who signed the statement included academics from Chiang Mai, Thammasat, Chulalongkorn and Walailak universities, lawyers and human rights activists.