BANGKOK – Thailand’s government is taking action to investigate transactions reportedly used by Myanmar’s junta to purchase weapons. In a meeting next week with commercial banks and state agencies, the government will urge tighter scrutiny to prevent funds from being used for arms purchases.
Last week, Thai bank representatives admitted to a lack of capacity to thoroughly investigate all transactions that could potentially support the junta’s weapons purchases. This admission came in response to a U.N. expert’s report highlighting a significant increase in funds channeled through Thai banks for the purchasing of weapons used against civilians in Myanmar.
Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa announced the upcoming meeting on July 24, emphasizing the need for banks to adhere to proper due diligence protocols and increase scrutiny of their transactions. The government’s proactive stance aims to prevent any further misuse of financial resources for violent purposes.