Ital-Thai boss pleads not guilty in illegal hunting

KANCHANABURI, May 3 (TNA) -- Business tycoon Premchai Karnasuta pleads not guilty in the high-profile illegal hunting case to the court in Kanchanaburi Wednesday morning. Mr Premchai, president of construction giant Italian-Thai, faces six charges related to his illegal camping and poaching in Thungyai Naresuan Wildlife Sanctuary in early February. He and his three aides appeared at the court in Thong Pha Phum district for the first time after remand periods ended. All four denied all charges including killing wildlife animals, including rare black leopard. Images of Mr Premchai at the camp and carcasses of wildlife animals have led to public anger. Social groups and individuals have expressed their discontent and demanded transparent prosecution against the tycoon who has immense political connections. After Mr Premchai denied the charge, the court announced the next hearing set for May 21. (TNA)