Thai authorities were looking for the forger of a royal letter concerning the health and succesion of King Bhumibol Adulyadej today.

A suspect arrested yesterday admitted sharing the letter on social media but denied creating it.

Krit Butradeejin, 26, told police he received the letter from a source affiliated with a political group.

“We have the lead linking to the forger,” said Police Lt-Gen Prawut Thawornsiri.

Police said yesterday Krit was suspected of creating the fake statement, but today said he was now considered to be among the first to share it online.

The letter was widely circulated on social media on Monday before the government said it was fake.

The forger stands to be charged with lese-majeste and violating the Computer Crimes Act.

The monarchy is traditionally revered in Thailand and the charge of lese-majeste carries serious penalties for any criticism of the king’s immediate family.

- dpa