The search of ex-premier Thaksin Shinwatra has been made more difficult because he has used different names while travelling, Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said yesterday.

He said the name changes added to the problems of investigators, making it harder for the government to arrest Thaksin.

Reacting to Abhisit's remark, former Thai Rak Thai Party deputy secretary-general Dr Surapong Suebwonglee said the premier should ensure he had accurate information before making such a statement. He said it was extremely difficult for celebrities, especially former prime ministers, to use fake names on passports or visas. "The best way is to avoiding giving information, if you cannot supply correct information,'' he said.

--The Nation/Asia News Network