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Published on August 16, 2007

"Thaksin calmly listened to my report [on the warrants] as he fully understands the real situation and knows his litigation has been politicised," Pichit said.

He said his client was aware of various bullying attempts aimed at him since the the September 19 coup until now.

He said he would advise his client on legal moves, including the possibility of seeking political asylum.

"I believe Thaksin will finalise his decision on his next move in a couple of days," he said.

Lead prosecutor Seksan Bangsomboon yesterday collected the arrest warrants from the court clerk before officially asking police to locate and apprehend Thaksin and Pojaman.

Seksan said the Attorney-General's Office was working with the police and the Foreign Ministry to secure the couple's extradition. "We will do everything in our power to get the two of them to face charges in Thailand," he said.

Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont said yesterday that his government was ready to ensure Thaksin's safety if he returned to stand trial for the 2003 Ratchadaphisek land case.

"We have an extradition treaty with Britain. It will have to follow due process," the premier said.

Police have until September 25 to complete the manhunt and Seksan is then required to inform the Supreme Court about the execution of the warrants.

The court will then rule whether to issue an extradition request to bring back the two fugitives from London, or to suspend the case until the two end their exile, or to commence the trial in absentia.