Blacklisted individuals split into groups based on 'guilt': DSI

These were a "white group" - those who could provide clear explanations about their financial transactions; a "black group" who were directly involved with the movement's terrorist acts; and a "grey group" - who had made suspicious moves but were in a uncertain position as investigators could not find proof against them, DSI director-general Tharit Pengdit said.

He said the DSI would file charges of terrorism against people in the black group and expand inquiries into financial activities of those in the "grey group".

However, the DSI would still not suggest any individual be removed from the blacklist of people and businesses banned from making financial transactions. Further investigation and comparative analysis was required in regard to their financial information and tax payment, Tharit said.

The government's Centre for Resolution of the Emergency Situation imposed the ban on individuals and businesses suspected of providing financial support to the red shirts during their recent political unrest. The turmoil ended with 90 people killed and about 1,900 injured and led to riots and arson attacks on about three dozen buildings in Bangkok and other provinces.

On the eighth day of questioning by CRES officials yesterday, those on the blacklist continued to offer explanations in response to the financial ban.

Some showed up by themselves, such as Wiyadi Sutawong and Pasin Hoklang, close friends of Khunying Pojaman na Pombejra, who is the former wife of the reds' major supporter and ex-premier, Thaksin Shinawatra.

Others sent their lawyers, such as Imperial World owner Songkram Kitlertpairoj, Baiyoke Tower owner Panlert Baiyoke, and Misushita owner Somwang Assarasi.