Public prosecutors yesterday withdrew six additional offences filed against Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout by the United States, ending a legal dispute over whether he should be further detained - and meaning he is available for immediate courtordered extradition.
Citing the reason for the withdrawal, the prosecutor in charge, Sophon Kasemphiboolchai, said the decision made possible the USbound extradition of the suspect, ruled by the Court of Appeals three weeks ago.
The Criminal Court has approved the withdrawal decision, and set a session on October 4 to hear Bout's response - whether he would agree to the withdrawal of the six offences against him, including money laundering.
Neither the US nor Russia, who are in the process of negotiating the destination of Bout's extradition, have commented in response to the withdrawal of the offences. Russia wants to try its citizen itself, while the US cites indictments against Bout in violation of US laws.
Due to a legal technicality, Bout will be set free if not extradited to the US in 90 days, starting from August 20 when the Court of Appeals ruling was issued. The public prosecutors' decision yesterday means the remainder of the detention period continues to count down.
Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban said Thailand was following protocols regarding the matter and Thailand's relations with both Russia and the US should not be affected as a result.
"Nobody can be angry with Thailand, because we have dealt with the issue in accordance with international rules and regulations," he added.
Asked about a visit to Bout by opposition members of the House committee on international affairs scheduled for Saturday, Suthep said it was the MPs' right to do so, but it would also depend on Bout's approval of the visit.