Kamnan Poh out of intensive care

Somchai "Kamnan Poh" Khunpluem was yesterday transferred from the intensive care unit to a patient room at Chon Buri Hospital's Chalermratchasombat building, after his condition improved.

A book was made available at the hospital for well-wishers to sign, and the convicted former politician and Chon Buri crime boss received a visit from Bang Sai mayor Kampol Wongsaithong, toting a basket of flowers. Also visiting yesterday was Somchai's wife Satil Khunpluem, accompanied by Somchai's close aid Paiboon Pansanit and the man who took Somchai to see the doctor on the day of his arrest, Winai Ponpaipal. Satil said Somchai was still fatigued and didn't talk much. Winai said he had no worries about being summoned to testify to police today (Tuesday), because he would tell the truth - that he gave Somchai a ride to hospital out of gratitude.

Hospital director Assada Tiyapan said Somchai's condition had improved, with no fever, good appetite, the ability to move around on his own, and blood pressure at 100-130/40-60 with a heart rate of 80-100 per minute with occasional skipping of beats.

In related news, crime suppression chief Colonel Supisan Pakdinareunart reported on the progress of the police investigation into those who harboured the fugitive Somchai. He said investigators had obtained CCTV footage from Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital cameras that showed Somchai wearing a facemask on the day before his arrest as he sought treatment at the hospital. Supisan said the hospital had not yet submitted records to show Somchai had registered for treatment under the name "Kim Saetang" and said police would announce progress on the case again on Saturday.