Thailand Says It Will Hold Arms Dealer

The New York Times

BANGKOK, Thailand

Thai police said Friday that a Russian businessman regarded as one of the world’s most notorious arms dealers would be held here for investigation even as the United States seeks his extradition.

A police spokesman said the authorities were investigating whether the businessman, Viktor Bout, 41, had used Thailand as a base for negotiating weapons deals with terrorists.

Under Thai law, Bout could be detained for up to 84 days without trial .

Federal prosecutors in New York said they were seeking the extradition of Bout and an associate to stand trial on a charge of conspiracy to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization.

The timing of his transfer still has to be worked out, said Thomas Pasquarello of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.

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