Bangkok: The Criminal Court has denied bail to Ms. Jaruwan and Ms. Nalin, the wife and daughter of Dr. Boon Vanasin, who face charges in a major fraud case involving public borrowing. The decision was made due to concerns over the high damages involved and fears that they might flee or interfere with evidence. The investigation remains ongoing, particularly regarding allegations of forged signatures. According to Thai News Agency, the court convened a hearing to address the request for temporary release of the two accused individuals. Ms. Jaruwan, aged 79, and her daughter Ms. Nalin, aged 51, each proposed a bail amount of 2 million baht. The court proceeding included testimonies from both women, who were escorted from the Central Women's Correctional Institution, alongside their legal representatives and investigators from Huai Khwang Police Station. During the hearing, Ms. Nalin explained her role as an executive and director of Thonburi Healthcare Group PCL (THG), stating she owned only 10,000 shares out of over 840 million. She mentioned that Dr. Boon had resigned from the company's board in 2021 and was unaware of his international travels. Ms. Nalin, who holds dual citizenship and resides in a condominium separate from Dr. Boon, also noted her mental health struggles. She reported the forgery of her signature to the police and expressed willingness to adhere to court orders if granted bail. Ms. Jaruwan, meanwhile, testified about her divorce from Dr. Boon in 1998, despite still living in the same residence in separate quarters. She denied involvement in the fraudulent activities and highlighted her health issues, such as high blood pressure and osteoporosis, which require ongoing medical attention. She assured the court of her compliance if released on bail. The investigators from Huai Khwang Police Station pointed out that the suspects delayed contacting them, unlike other executives who proactively provided statements before arrest warrants were issued. There are numerous loan agreements and guarantees bearing the suspects' signatures, currently being scrutinized for authenticity. More victims have come forward, escalating the estimated damages to over 10 billion baht. The investigators oppose bail, citing threats and intimidation faced by some victims and potential involvement of the suspects in asset transfers or evidence destruction. Later in the day, the court announced its decision to deny temporary release to Ms. Jaruwan and Ms. Nalin. Despite the suspects' claims of forged signatures, the investigation remains incomplete, with further evidence related to financial transactions and communications required. Given the gravity of the charges, substantial financial impact, and structured nature of the alleged fraud, concerns of possible flight or evidence tampering justified the denial of bail. The appeal for temporary release was consequently rejected.
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