Bangkok: 86-year-old Lao Ta Saenli has been released after receiving a royal pardon. Lao Ta Saenli, a national drug trafficker, was released following this royal clemency.
According to Thai News Agency, the Facebook page "Bang Kwang Central Prison" shared images of an event titled "Controlled with Heart, Corrected with Moral Principles, Leading Towards Society," presided over by Ms. Atchara Sricham, Public Prosecutor of Nonthaburi Province. This ceremony celebrated the release of prisoners granted a royal pardon under the Royal Decree on Amnesty 2026, issued to commemorate Her Majesty Queen Sirikit's 4th Cycle Birthday Anniversary on June 3, 2026, at the Control Division, Zone 14.
During the event, inmates who completed training programs received certificates before a royal portrait as part of the Royal Project 'Kog Nong Na: A Project of Compassion and Hope, Department of Corrections' Batch 8/3. This initiative focuses on rehabilitation, vocational skill development, and the promotion of sustainable agriculture, equipping former inmates with the knowledge to pursue careers and live sustainably post-release.
Among those who benefited from the royal pardon is Mr. Laota Saenli, aged 86, who was convicted of drug and firearms offenses. His charges included conspiracy and the illegal sale of methamphetamine, a Category 1 narcotic, along with violations of the Firearms and Ammunition Act.
Mr. Laota Saenli previously served as the headman of Tha Ton Subdistrict, Mae Ai District, Chiang Mai Province, and was known for his association with "Khun Sa," a notable figure in the Golden Triangle area. His arrest resulted from a significant police anti-narcotics operation. On October 11, 2016, under the leadership of Pol. Lt. Gen. Rewat Klinngesorn, officers conducted a sting operation that led to Mr. Laota's arrest along with his network at his gas station in Mae Ai District, Chiang Mai Province. The operation resulted in the seizure of approximately 20 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and assets valued over 1 billion baht. The royal pardon was granted following the criteria and conditions outlined in the Royal Decree on Amnesty, B.E. 2569 (2026).