A well-known businessman has surrendered after four years on the run to avoid jail for document fraud and charges of running illicit businesses in the South, Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon says.
Sahachai "Sia Jo" Chiansoemsin has turned himself in, Gen Prawit said yesterday, confirming recent reports that Sia Jo, 50, gave himself up in the southern border province of Pattani.
Authorities suspected Sahachai of running many illicit businesses, including an offshore casino in the Gulf of Thailand oil and wood smuggling, and of bribing police officers.
Soldiers arrested Sahachai in June 2014 after a previous search of one of his properties in Pattani uncovered fake immigration stamps.
The provincial court sentenced him to a prison term totalling one year and nine months for forgery on Oct 9, 2014, but he managed to escape from the court allegedly with the help of a police officer.
Meanwhile, outgoing army chief Chalermchai Sitthisad yesterday said he had complete confidence his successor would be able to help end the insurgent violence in the deep South.
Speaking during a visit to the Internal Security Operations Command (Isoc) Forward Command in Pattani's Yarang district, he said Gen Apirat Kongsompong had what it takes to help restore peace and order in the restive region.
"I have a great deal of confidence in him. He has served in the area and made frequent visits here. I know he has the ability to carry on with the current strategy," Gen Chalermchai said.
Gen Apirat, who is at present an assistant army chief and will succeed Gen Chalermchai next month, was also part of the army commander's entourage visiting the deep South.
Also among them were the new 4th Army Region chief, the new deputy army commander and the new army chief-of-staff whose appointments received royal endorsement early this month.
Gen Chalermchai expressed satisfaction with the southern situation, saying insurgent violence had dropped 21% on last year, despite several violent incidents occurring in August.
He said he had also instructed relevant agencies to step up security and take extra precautions during the period, from Sept 15 to early October, when the commander transition period takes place.
Gen Chalermchai said economic development, investment and tourism in the region were also picking up, which was reflected in better cooperation from local residents.
The outgoing army chief said the 4th Army Region has also made drug suppression and prevention in the deep South a major priority which has proved successful.
Greeted by more than 600 security officers and civilians, Gen Chalermchai thanked them for their support and efforts in tackling insurgent violence and promoting peace and order.
Sahachai: On the run for four years
