Chuwit cleared of link to demolition of bars

By Phoojadkarn Daily

14 July 2006

Following a three-year trial, the Bangkok South Criminal Court yesterday dismissed the case against Chuwit Kamolvisit, pictured, and 131 other defendants, all of whom had been charged with involvement in the illegal demolition of bars and shops on Sukhumvit Soi 10 in 2003.

The reasons for the verdict were insufficient evidence and unreliable testimonies, the judge said while handing down the verdicts.

Charnvet Malaibucha, the 49th defendant, was the only defendant found guilty of being an accomplice.

He was sentenced to one year’s imprisonment without probation. However, his sentence was reduced by a third, to eight months, for giving helpful testimony.

Chuwit, who was once a Chat Thai party-list MP, is probably better known as a former massage parlor tycoon.

Following the court’s ruling, he said that he had always believed in the judicial process, and the judgement was vindication of his insistence that he was not involved in the crime.

“I will not countersue anyone, not even the police. I’m just glad it’s over,” said Chuwit, the owner of the 10-rai site of the demolished premises.

On January 26, 2003, hundreds of men in ‘safari’ suits descended on a famous entertainment venue at the mouth of Sukhumvit Soi 10 before daybreak. They used demolition equipment and backhoes to bulldoze more than 60 open-air bars and shops, forcing the tenants out into the streets without giving them time to collect their belongings, which were completely destroyed as a result.

Thai Day