Bangkok: Pol. Gen. Ruttapol Naowarat, the Minister of Justice, announced that former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's request to have his Electronic Monitoring (EM) bracelet removed has been denied, as he does not meet the necessary conditions. Thaksin's request was made alongside his appeal for a royal pardon.
According to Thai News Agency, the criteria for the removal of the EM bracelet include illness, occupational needs, and the lack of electricity and internet access at the place of residence. Ruttapol stated that these circumstances are unlikely to occur in Thaksin's case, particularly the first two criteria, which are deemed inapplicable for his situation. He highlighted that in the past two weeks, only one individual was granted the removal of an EM bracelet for occupational reasons.
As of May 11th, Thaksin's parole conditions mandate the immediate attachment of an EM device by probation officers from the Bangkok Metropolitan Probation Office 7. The conditions stipulate that Thaksin must reside with a sponsor at a designated address and must report any change to the probation officer in advance. Additionally, he is required to comply with all laws and inform the probation officer of any infractions.
Furthermore, Thaksin must engage in honest employment, report any job changes, and follow all instructions from the probation officer. He is prohibited from leaving the provincial area without permission, engaging in disgraceful conduct, or being involved with narcotics or weapons. Contact with prisoners or detainees who are not relatives is also forbidden, and he must avoid associating with individuals who may influence further offenses.
Special conditions are currently not applicable, but Thaksin must present his suspension certificate to authorities when requested. Failure to do so may result in arrest.