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Thai government steps up efforts to crack down on fake news

Warrants have been issued for 29 people, including people who ‘like’ and share posts on social media

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Deputy Tourist Police chief Surachate 'Big Joke' Hakparn shows media his briefing board to press charges against a London-based Facebook user for spreading 'fake news' on the satellite plans (top) and an 'altered photo' of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha. Photo: Bangkok Post

By Gregory Morrissey

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Thai authorities are stepping up a crackdown on false and misleading information targetting the government which is spreading quickly via social media platforms.

Concerns about “fake news” were heightened after a London-based Facebook user posted on the KonthaiUK Facebook site a photo and a message suggesting corruption in the government’s satellite project.

Speaking after being briefed on the crackdown by Pol Maj Gen Surachate Hakparn, deputy commissioner of the Tourist Police, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Gen Prawit Wongsuwon said the authorities are taking legal action against people generating and spreading fake news.

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In the latest case, warrants have been issued for the arrest of 29 people including a woman identified as Watana Ebbage, 56, who is believed to be living in London and who registered the KonThaiUK page. Gen Prawit said Thai authorities were also in contact with Interpol to have red notices issued for suspects who live overseas.

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