A Thai massage parlour tycoon who was reported missing after claiming to have paid massive bribes to police was found yesterday, apparently intoxicated, on a highway near Bangkok.
Police said that a friend of Chuwit Kamolwisit, owner of the David Group of massage parlours, who had reported him missing on Thursday, could be prosecuted for filing a false complaint.
The alleged disappearance of Chuwit attracted considerable media attention in Thailand.
He was arrested earlier this year on charges of masterminding the illegal demolition of a district of bars, shops and eateries in the heart of Bangkok in January. He was freed on bail, pending a trial.
On Wednesday, he alleged that he paid 12 million Thai baht in monthly bribes to police and gave out 'trays of Rolexes' to protect his businesses. He complained that the police turned on him despite the bribes.
Massage parlours are often used as fronts for prostitution in Thailand. Although widespread and visible, prostitution is illegal.
The friend, Mr Chaiwat Krairirk, said Chuwit had phoned him on Wednesday night and claimed to have been taken captive.
But early yesterday, a truck driver picked up the apparently drunken Chuwit on a highway near Bangkok and took him to the police station, police said. Chuwit was later sent to a Bangkok hospital.
