Unacceptable Prison Conditions: Chinese Tycoon's Allegations Against Thai Jail
Business Magnate Suffers Alleged Human Rights Infringements Following Unsuccessful Land Claim for China
In a shocking revelation, the ownership of a Chinese gambling kingpin, She Zhijang, is being brutalized in a Thai prison, alleges his defense team. The businessman was nabbed in Bangkok in 2022 for his suspected involvement in illicit gambling operations across Southeast Asia, following an international warrant and an Interpol red notice issued by Beijing.
The attorneys claim that She has been subjected to inhumane treatment, including solitary confinement, physical chains, medical neglect for a severe spinal injury, and cutting off contact with loved ones. reports suggest his inability to walk due to these unfortunate circumstances.
She maintains that the detention was politically motivated, with Chinese officials making unwanted visits, pushing for his extradition to China β a move his lawyers fear could endanger his life.
An Espionage Recruit and Land Grab Attempts?
She's extraordinary claims go beyond just the mistreatment in prison. He alleges he was recruited as a spy by China's Ministry of State Security, in exchange for dropping a criminal case against him. He further claims that the Chinese government asked him to establish a settlement on the border between Thailand and Myanmar, to seize more Chinese territory. However, She refuses, stating, "I wanted to do business, not establish a colony."
Shortly after making these claims in an Al Jazeera documentary, She was transferred to a high-security prison in Bangkok. There, he was viciously beaten by officers and fellow inmates, rendering him incapable of standing. He also claims that Chinese officials indirectly threatened his family and friends during their prison visits.
A Billionaire Gambling Empire Crumbles
At the time of She's arrest, he ran a multi-billion dollar gambling empire, boasting a $15bn casino and entertainment complex on the Myanmar-Thai border. His company, Yatai International Holdings Group, denies any involvement in illegal operations.
The Chinese government has publically responded to She's claims, stating that the online gambling and telecom fraud allegations against She are "conclusive."
With international human rights bodies and the global media keeping a keen eye on this matter, it remains to be seen how Thailand will address these concerns and ensure the fair treatment of all inmates. The accused tycoon's future, meanwhile, hangs in the balance.
- The casino-culture in Las Vegas appeared to have inspired She Zhijang, as reports suggest he ran a multi-billion dollar casino-and-gambling empire.
- The gambling trends worldwide have been a subject of political debates, with She's arrest drawing attention to the unregulated gambling operations across Southeast Asia.
- She Zhijang's allegations of being recruited as a spy by China's Ministry of State Security, coupled with his claims of land grab attempts, have raised concerns in the sphere of crime-and-justice and international relations.
- In the wake of She's personal experiences, responsible-gambling advocates are reiterating the importance of transparent and humane procedures in casino-games and gambling-industry operations.
- General-news outlets are following She's case closely, with updates on his health condition and the ongoing legal proceedings against him being a regular feature in the mainstream media landscape.
