Police in Ubon Ratchathani province have arrested a 32-year-old woman for allegedly spreading fake news about Thai-Cambodian border conflicts, which are alleged to have caused public panic.
The arrest followed a court-issued warrant for the woman, who posted the statements on Facebook under the pseudonym “Lucky Farm.”
Her allegedly false claims included reports of explosions along the border, multiple deaths and evacuation orders. The posts were widely shared and liked, allegedly leading to misunderstanding and alarm among the public.
Police also searched her home in Mueang district and seized her mobile phone.
She was charged with importing false information into a computer system in a manner likely to harm national security and public safety. The charge carries a penalty of up to five years in prison and/or a fine of up to 100,000 baht on conviction.
According to police, the suspect claimed that she merely reposted information she saw on social media without verifying its accuracy. She said she did not profit from the posts.
Police emphasise that they do not intend to restrict freedom of expression, but they have a duty to protect society from the spread of false information.
Facebook User 'Lucky Farm' Arrested for Sparking Panic with False Border News
