Interpol's help sought for Thaksin's arrest

An informed source said a formal request was submitted last week to Interpol headquarters in Lyon, France, because Thaksin was a "wanted person" in Thailand.

Thailand is a member of Interpol and can use the organisation's fugitive-investigation services. Interpol can help the Thai government track down Thaksin's whereabouts. He often travels by private jet, making it difficult to know where he will go next.

Thailand has also requested the United Arab Emirates inform Thailand if Thaksin returns there.

"We have full cooperation from the UAE," said the source.

He also said Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen had told Thai authorities that Cambodia honoured its relations with the Abhisit Vejjajiva government and would not allow its territory to be used by Thaksin. Thai media have often reported that Cambodia has been used as a transit point for the ex-premier.

"Thaksin is considered a fugitive, one who poses a serious threat to public safety in Thailand. We have a good case," said the source.

Interpol will help Thailand circulate Thaksin's identification details and judicial information about him internationally.

The sources said Thaksin had been given an Interpol "red notice", which is recognised in a number of countries and serves as the legal basis for provisional arrest. A red notice is intended to help police identify or locate Thaksin, with a view to his arrest and extradition.