Thailand detains two people for coronavirus-related fake news
Thai authorities have arrested two people for posting “fake news” on social media in relation to coronavirus.
People wear protective masks over fears of the new coronavirus. (Photo: AFP/VNA)Bangkok (VNA) – Thai authorities have arrested two people for posting “fake news” on social media in relation to coronavirus.
Thailand’s Digital Economy and Society Minister Buddhipongse Punnakanta on January 30 said a man and a woman were accused of violating the computer crime act, which can carry up to five years in prison, for separate posts about the virus. One was a misleading video clip while another spread false information about an alleged case in a beachside city.
They have already admitted spreading fake news, Punnakanta said, adding that more suspects are being investigated and people should be cautious about news sources.
Deputy Minister of Public Health Satit Pitutecha said Chinese authorities are considering evacuating Thai nationals stranded in Wuhan.
“We will be able to control the situation in Thailand,” Satit noted, adding that all hospitals are ready to deal with suspected cases if the number does not exceed 10,000.
A plane to evacuate Thais from Wuhan is ready but the government is still awaiting permission from China, said Minister of Public Health Anutin Charnvirakul.
Thailand’s tourism industry relies heavily on Chinese visitors, and has so far confirmed a total of 14 coronavirus infections, including 13 Chinese nationals and one Thai who returned from Wuhan. It is the highest number of confirmed cases reported outside China./.
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