The Appeal Court has dismissed royal defamation and other charges against activist Noppasin Treelayapewat for allegedly spray-painting on an image of King Vajiralongkorn during the 2021 protest.

Noppasin “Sainam” Treelayapewat was accused of affixing a sticker with the words ‘CANCEL LAW 112’ and spraying black paint on the phrase ‘Long Live the King’ on an image of King Vajiralongkorn during a protest on 18 July 2021. He was charged with royal defamation, arson, property damage, and violating the Emergency Decree, according to Thai Lawyers for Human Rights.

In 2023, the court dismissed three charges - royal defamation, arson, and property damage - saying that the evidence was not sufficient to support the accusation.

With regard to the Emergency Decree, the defendant participated in the protest without wearing a mask or abiding by the Emergency Decree. The court found him guilty of violating the Emergency Decree and imposed a fine of 6,000 baht, which was later reduced to 4,000 baht due to his helpful testimony.

The prosecutor subsequently appealed the case.

The Appeal Court on Monday (8 July) stated that the perpetrator wore black clothes with their face covered making it difficult to identify them. The evidence also did not provide any specific details about the perpetrator’s appearance such as height, size, or distinguishing features. Additionally, at the scene, Noppasin was not the only one dressed in black clothing. The defendant was given the benefit of doubt.

The Appeal Court upheld the court’s decision to dismiss the case against Noppasin.