File photo for reference only

 

In a move drawing widespread criticism, Thai cybercrime police raided the home of Yaiyika Athikuptanawat, an online journalist for ‘The Critic’ programme, at 7am yesterday. The operation, prompted by a complaint from lawyers representing former PM Thaksin Shinawatra, has raised concerns about press freedom in Thailand.

 

The warrant targeted Yaiyika, summoning her as a witness in a case involving alleged misinformation. However, critics argued the operation's scale—around ten officers was excessive for a witness inquiry.

 

Warong Dechgitvigrom, chair of the Thai Pakdee party, likened the raid to tactics used by a so-called "Thaksin Regime," notorious for stifling dissent in the past. He condemned the sizeable police presence, likening it to an offensive against organized crime, rather than a journalist.

 

 

Similarly, former senator Somchai Sawangkarn questioned if the national police authorised such a forceful approach. Acting in concert, Virute Sirisawasdibutr of the Institute for Justice Reform expressed concern over the raid's intent, fearing it signals a crackdown on critical voices within the media.

 

These events underscore ongoing tensions in Thailand regarding press freedoms and governmental accountability, as some voices argue the actions reflect a troubling pattern of media intimidation, reported Thai PBS World.

 

-- 2025-02-21

 

 

Thaskin going back to his old ways of media intimidation, next will be bodies in the streets  its about time they locked him up for good

2 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

has raised concerns about press freedom in Thailand.

 

What press freedom?

There has never been press freedom here in Thailand.

The press and the internet are censored.

 

18 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Similarly, former senator Somchai Sawangkarn questioned if the national police authorised such a forceful approach. Acting in concert, Virute Sirisawasdibutr of the Institute for Justice Reform expressed concern over the raid's intent, fearing it signals a crackdown on critical voices within the media.

Media censorship... all dictators go down this path

19 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

The operation, prompted by a complaint from lawyers representing former PM Thaksin Shinawatra,

Smart man getting the same lawyer. In the end though it will not make a difference. He should be lucky the police did not plant incriminating evidence in his home wile there. 

He should know better than to make waves this way especially doing it online. Someone will get angry and make problems for him. 

3 minutes ago, thesetat said:

Smart man getting the same lawyer. In the end though it will not make a difference. He should be lucky the police did not plant incriminating evidence in his home wile there. 

He should know better than to make waves this way especially doing it online. Someone will get angry and make problems for him. 

You need to read the artical  He is a she !!!!!