Thailand’s 2006 military coup left its mark on the country in a lot of ways: Years of political instability and crippling street protests and violence, for a start. But some of the most insidious changes are only now revealing themselves, such as the effects of the very first law the junta’s assembly passed after taking power, the Computer Crimes Act.
Last week three Thais were arrested under the act and charged with posting rumors online that threatened “national security”—specifically, rumors about the health of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, 81, who has been hospitalized since Sept. 19 (authorities say his health is improving). Police allege a link between the postings and a 7% drop in the Thai stock exchange Oct. 14 and 15.
via Taking Stock of Bangkok – WSJ.com.
