Little evidence of Thaksin graft

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Thai investigators are struggling to find definite evidence that ex-Premier Thaksin Shinawatra is guilty of graft.

Gen Sonthi Boonyaratglin, who launched last month's coup to oust Mr Thaksin, said it was "difficult to implicate" him in any major corruption cases.

The news is a major set-back for the coup leaders, who cited massive government corruption as one of the main reasons for the takeover.

Speculation is mounting that Mr Thaksin might try to return to Thailand soon.

He is currently staying with his daughter in London.

On Thursday Mr Thaksin's wife, Pojaman Shinawatra, met with Prem Tinsulanonda, the top adviser to Thailand's revered king, in what reports suggest was an attempt to ease the way for her husband to fly back to Bangkok.

But in an interview with the English-language Nation newspaper, Gen Sonthi said: "If he's really concerned about the country, he shouldn't try to come back at present."

Asked what would happen if Mr Thaksin "just got on a plane", Gen Sonthi said: "It wouldn't be allowed to land".

Call for patience

Various investigations are currently under way in Thailand, to look into corruption allegations involving Mr Thaksin's family and close government aides - but principally focusing on the ex-prime minister himself.

The coup leaders have cited alleged graft as one of the main justifications for coup - and are under huge pressure to prove that their claims are well-founded.

But Gen Sonthi told the Nation: "I am not sure how far the Office of the Auditor General can investigate suspected corruption cases involving Thaksin. They might get nowhere at all."

Gen Sonthi explained that the country's new rulers were in a difficult position.

"Thai people are not easy to please," he was quoted as saying - adding that some Thais wanted a swift, ruthless probe while others were calling for a transparent - and possibly long drawn-out - investigation.

"We have to abide by the law, and take all parties' concerns into consideration," Gen Sonthi said - adding that all proper legal requirements had to be observed.

"I know how the people feel. I guess I feel the same way when I watch soccer. I am always frustrated when waiting for my team to score and feel like getting on the field and playing myself," he said.