Immigration hold-up prompts Thaksin to jet off to Dubai, Thaksin declares

In an unexpected turn of events, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra found himself diverting his plane to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, instead of Singapore, where he had initially intended to visit for a medical checkup.

Thaksin Shinawatra, who has been dealing with bone and lung conditions, had planned to meet with doctors who have been treating him for several years in Dubai. The delay in Thailand forced him to make this change in plans.

The pilot of his plane informed him that Seletar airport in Singapore, which caters to private jets, closed at 10pm. This closure, combined with a nearly two-hour delay due to immigration police, meant that Thaksin Shinawatra's plane could not reach Singapore in time.

Upon arrival in Dubai, Thaksin Shinawatra was granted permission to land and was greeted by a long period of circling the airport, pending approval from Dubai air traffic control.

While in Dubai, Thaksin Shinawatra also took the opportunity to meet friends he hadn't seen for over two years. He posted on his social media platform at 2.07am, confirming his safe arrival.

The court ordered Thaksin Shinawatra to attend a hearing concerning his prolonged stay at Police General Hospital in Bangkok. This hearing is scheduled for mid-2023 to early 2024. However, Thaksin Shinawatra has promised to return to Thailand by Sept 8.

Interestingly, Singapore time is one hour ahead of Thailand time, which may have added to the time crunch Thaksin Shinawatra faced. Despite the unforeseen circumstances, Thaksin Shinawatra's plane was eventually cleared to land, and he was able to continue with his medical appointments.

Thaksin Shinawatra's right to leave the country was upheld due to a previous court case, allowing him the freedom to seek necessary medical treatment abroad. His next court hearing in Thailand is scheduled for Sept 9.