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Thai Call-Center Scam Suspects Face 12-Day Detention File photo for reference only Ninety-three Thai citizens have been brought back from Cambodia after their arrest during police raids on call-center scams in Poipet. On Wednesday morning, cybercrime police escorted these individuals to the Criminal Court to seek approval for extending their detention by 12 more days. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353644-thai-call-center-scam-suspects-face-12-day-detention/

File photo for reference only Ninety-three Thai citizens have been brought back from Cambodia after their arrest during police raids on call-center scams in Poipet. On Wednesday morning, cybercrime police escorted these individuals to the Criminal Court to seek approval for extending their detention by 12 more days. Pol Lt Gen Trairong Phiewphan, chief of the Cybercrime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), stated that the interrogation process is now complete. The cyber police submitted their request for continued detention around 8:30 a.m., while the police wait on the court's decision regarding bail opposition, which will be determined by the CCIB deputy chief Atthasit Sudsa-nguan. These suspects, part of a larger group of 119 Thai nationals comprised of 61 men and 58 women, were deported on March 1 through the Poipet border checkpoint after entering and residing illegally in Cambodia. The Cambodian police nabbed a total of 230 individuals during February raids in Poipet, but only 119 were confirmed as Thai citizens. This makeshift network included workers from Myanmar and Laos. Warrants had been issued for 100 Thais, but only 93 remain detained, including 48 women and 45 men. These individuals are currently held at police stations in Nonthaburi and Bangkok. For 19 of the 119 repatriated Thais, there are no arrest warrants due to lack of involvement in the call-center activities. Four individuals are under 18, while 15 others were involved in separate gambling website operations in Cambodia, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-05

AIS Takes Lead in Cleaning Up Thailand's Messy Power Poles AIS is making a strong push to clean up Thailand's cluttered power poles, aiming to boost public safety and city aesthetics. Teaming up with the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA), AIS sent engineers to Rayong's Ban Chang district to organize and clear telecommunications cables from power poles. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353643-ais-takes-lead-in-cleaning-up-thailands-messy-power-poles/

AIS is making a strong push to clean up Thailand's cluttered power poles, aiming to boost public safety and city aesthetics. Teaming up with the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA), AIS sent engineers to Rayong's Ban Chang district to organize and clear telecommunications cables from power poles. This initiative seeks to lower accident risks and improve the visual appeal of the city. Overseeing the project, PEA’s Deputy Governor of Business and Marketing, Prasit Chanprasith, stressed the importance of maintaining organized infrastructure for public safety and network efficiency. For years, Thailand's power poles have been notorious for their tangled wires, posing risks like electrical fires. AIS is stepping up its corporate social responsibility with this clean-up, further aligning with government calls for better regulation and management. Residents and businesses in Rayong appreciate the effort, seeing it as a step towards safer and more modern streets. With AIS leading these clean-ups, it’s expected that more Thai cities will soon see similar improvements, making urban landscapes safer and tidier, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-05

Thailand Weighs Designated Drinking Zones for Tourists Picture courtesy of CHUTTERSNAP, Unsplash Thailand is considering creating designated zones for alcohol consumption to cater to certain tourists, a move highlighted by the Public Health Minister. With an expected 35 million visitors this year, the government aims to enhance the tourist experience without conflicting with religious principles. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353642-thailand-weighs-designated-drinking-zones-for-tourists/

Picture courtesy of CHUTTERSNAP, Unsplash Thailand is considering creating designated zones for alcohol consumption to cater to certain tourists, a move highlighted by the Public Health Minister. With an expected 35 million visitors this year, the government aims to enhance the tourist experience without conflicting with religious principles. At a recent meeting of the National Alcohol Beverage Policy Committee, members discussed balancing tourism growth with health guidelines. The year has already shown success in tourism revenue, but some visitors are calling for more relaxed alcohol rules. The minister emphasized creating drinking areas that respect cultural values while supporting tourism. The committee decided to maintain the five key Buddhist holy days as alcohol-free, focusing instead on popular tourist spots for these adjustments. The Health Minister assured that health concerns are being considered, aligning with ministry guidelines. However, identifying specific locations for alcohol sales will be handled by other departments, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-05

DHL Drives Thailand's Growth with Bold 2030 Strategy Picture courtesy of Wikipedia In a significant move, DHL has announced its Strategy 2030 for Thailand, emphasizing electric vehicles (EVs), spare parts services, and cross-border e-commerce. DHL's plan aims to make Thailand a key regional hub for global trade, boosting the Asia-Pacific supply chain. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353641-dhl-drives-thailands-growth-with-bold-2030-strategy/

Picture courtesy of Wikipedia In a significant move, DHL has announced its Strategy 2030 for Thailand, emphasizing electric vehicles (EVs), spare parts services, and cross-border e-commerce. DHL's plan aims to make Thailand a key regional hub for global trade, boosting the Asia-Pacific supply chain. Herbert Vongpusanachai, head of DHL Express Thailand, shared his excitement, stating that Strategy 2030 will focus on global trade, e-commerce, sustainability, digitalisation, and workforce shifts. DHL seeks to help Thailand's businesses seize exports while avoiding low-cost competition from abroad. Steve Walker from DHL Supply Chain Thailand praised Thailand’s strong supply chain, especially in EV technology, and highlighted plans for a renewable energy warehouse. DHL will also increase its EV fleet by 300% in three years. Vincent Yong of DHL Global Forwarding Thailand mentioned launching a multimodal hub at Suvarnabhumi Airport. This aligns with plans to position Thailand as a leading EV manufacturing hub by 2025. Kiattichai Pitpreecha from DHL eCommerce pointed to Thailand’s booming online sales, which are growing rapidly. This year, the e-commerce market is expected to climb from $26.5 billion to $32 billion, a 21% jump in two years, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-05

Thailand Deports Uyghurs Despite International Asylum Offers Picture courtesy of News Statesman Thailand has deported 48 Uyghurs to China, turning down asylum offers from the US, Canada, and Australia. This decision, reported by Reuters, took place despite a decade-long detention period and concerns from UN human rights experts about the safety of these ethnic minorities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353639-thailand-deports-uyghurs-despite-international-asylum-offers/

Picture courtesy of News Statesman Thailand has deported 48 Uyghurs to China, turning down asylum offers from the US, Canada, and Australia. This decision, reported by Reuters, took place despite a decade-long detention period and concerns from UN human rights experts about the safety of these ethnic minorities. Thailand's government has defended the move, claiming it was legal and aligned with their human rights policies. However, organizations have long criticized China for its treatment of Uyghurs, a Muslim ethnic group primarily residing in Xinjiang, numbering about 10 million. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai stated no clear resettlement offers from Western countries were received. He said, "We waited for more than 10 years, and I have spoken to many major countries, but no one told me for certain." A US State Department official, who wished to remain unnamed, claimed that the US had actively worked with Thailand to address this issue. Sources from Canada and Australia also confirmed offers to resettle the Uyghurs had been made, though these were not made public due to fears of straining diplomatic relations with China. While Thailand and China's foreign ministries have remained silent, Australia's Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, expressed disapproval of Thailand's action, warning of potential diplomatic fallout. China's embassy in Bangkok called the deportees 40 "illegal migrants," stating they have now been reunited with their families. Five Uyghurs remain in Thai prisons due to legal challenges, while the status of three others is uncertain. Former Thai ambassador Pisan Manawapat confirmed multiple offers from other nations to take in the detainees but cited China's influence as a critical deterrent, saying, "We didn’t want to upset China." Thailand’s consideration for deportation relied heavily on China's promises to allow Thai officials to monitor the well-being of the Uyghurs after their return. Picture courtesy of Institute for European, Russian,, and Eurasian Studies UN experts cautioned about the potential for torture or worse, criticizing Thailand's handling of the situation. The UN refugee agency highlighted its lack of access to assess the Uyghurs' asylum claims, leaving them trapped in detention without options. To provide context, Xinjiang was designated an autonomous region in 1955 but remains tightly controlled by the Chinese central government. Development initiatives since the 1990s have escalated cultural tensions between Uyghurs and the Han Chinese, who have increasingly settled in the region. The Chinese government defends its policies in Xinjiang as necessary to counter extremism and spur economic growth. It rejects accusations of genocide as politically driven and without credible evidence, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-05

Drought Hits Thai Province Early, Spurs Water-Saving Measures File photo for reference only Nakhon Ratchasima province is facing an early drought crisis, prompting urgent actions from Governor Chaiwat Chuenkosum across all 32 districts to manage water resources effectively. The lack of water is threatening both drinking water supplies and tap water production, as major reservoirs are severely depleted. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353554-drought-hits-thai-province-early-spurs-water-saving-measures/

File photo for reference only Nakhon Ratchasima province is facing an early drought crisis, prompting urgent actions from Governor Chaiwat Chuenkosum across all 32 districts to manage water resources effectively. The lack of water is threatening both drinking water supplies and tap water production, as major reservoirs are severely depleted. Key measures include ensuring enough drinking water, regulating agricultural use, preserving ecological balance in waterways, and meeting industrial demands. Farmers are urged to avoid planting water-heavy crops like off-season rice and to instead consider alternatives that use less water. The Lam Takhong Reservoir in Si Khio district is a major concern with only 15.12% of its capacity, holding a mere 44 million cubic meters of usable water out of a total capacity of 314 million cubic meters. Other significant reservoirs like Lam Phra Phloeng, Mun Bon, and Lam Chae are also below half capacity. Meanwhile, in northeastern Khon Kaen, recent rain has eased conditions, keeping the Ubolratana Reservoir at a stable 52% capacity, expected to last through the dry season. However, water shortages persist in Buriram province, where a shortage has impacted 26 villages since last year. In Sakae Phrong subdistrict, local authorities provide daily water deliveries to help affected villages lacking piped water. The Sakae Phrong Subdistrict Administration Organization is urging the government to fund plans for expanding water infrastructure and dredging to combat the ongoing drought, reported Thai News Agency. -- 2025-03-04

Investigation Launched After Bomb Found in Lopburi Temple Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A live bomb was uncovered in a Lopburi temple on March 3, causing a panic among monks and local residents. The bomb, enclosed in a black bag, was found by 42-year-old Sarawut while he was helping with gardening at Wat Thaduea Uthumphon in Mueang district. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353552-investigation-launched-after-bomb-found-in-lopburi-temple/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A live bomb was uncovered in a Lopburi temple on March 3, causing a panic among monks and local residents. The bomb, enclosed in a black bag, was found by 42-year-old Sarawut while he was helping with gardening at Wat Thaduea Uthumphon in Mueang district. After discovering the bag in the monk’s quarters, Sarawut was shocked to find a bomb inside and quickly warned everyone, prompting an immediate evacuation of the area. Police and a bomb disposal team, led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Rot Saothong, swiftly arrived at the scene. The bomb squad confirmed the device was an 81 mm mortar shell, which posed a significant threat to safety. Thankfully, the EOD team managed to remove and neutralize the explosive without incident. The community is now on edge, questioning why such a dangerous item was abandoned in a temple. Village headwoman Vimol Duangsiakeaw contacted authorities immediately, and an investigation is now underway. Police are probing whether this incident is related to criminal activity, a form of religious intimidation, or simply an abandoned military relic. Officers are examining CCTV footage and speaking with local residents to uncover any potential leads on how the explosive ended up at the temple. Local authorities have promised to enhance security and urge residents to stay alert, advising them to report any suspicious objects to prevent future threats. The unsettling find has left the community asking critical questions as they wait for answers, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Brothers Arrested with Over 1kg Meth in Burglary Spree Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Samut Prakan province have caught two brothers suspected of burglarizing coin-operated machines and found over 1 kilogram of methamphetamine in their home. The brothers, 35-year-old Phongsakorn "M" Janloetlak and 20-year-old Phongphat "Ice" Janloetlak, were arrested on March 3. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353551-brothers-arrested-with-over-1kg-meth-in-burglary-spree/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Samut Prakan province have caught two brothers suspected of burglarizing coin-operated machines and found over 1 kilogram of methamphetamine in their home. The brothers, 35-year-old Phongsakorn "M" Janloetlak and 20-year-old Phongphat "Ice" Janloetlak, were arrested on March 3. Bang Kaeo police officers, including Police Colonel Adirek Thongkamkaew and others, seized a black and red Honda Wave 110i motorcycle without a license plate and clothing associated with the crimes. During a search of their Bang Kaeo subdistrict home, police uncovered 1,091 grams of meth hidden next to a speaker cabinet. The arrests followed a complaint from Somjai Laisuwan on February 21, when thieves broke into his coin-operated car wash machine in Bang Phli Yai subdistrict, stealing around 2,500 baht (US$75). CCTV footage revealed two men on an unmarked motorcycle. Further investigations linked the brothers to multiple break-ins across Samut Prakan. The Janloetlak brothers admitted using a tyre iron to break into machines and spending the stolen money on online games and daily expenses. They claimed the meth belonged to a friend, a former bus driver, but police doubt this and are investigating further. Both brothers have a history of theft, drug use, and weapon possession. They confessed to targeting various locations in Samut Prakan, with Phongsakorn driving and Phongphat acting as a lookout. Police continue to probe the origins of the drugs and the extent of their burglaries, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Deadly Knife Fight Erupts Following Wichit Motorcycle Dispute Photo courtesy of Emergency Thailand In a shocking turn of events yesterday evening, a minor motorcycle collision in Wichit escalated into a deadly knife fight, resulting in one man's death and three others injured. The police are now investigating this violent altercation that unfolded after tempers flared on the roads. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353550-deadly-knife-fight-erupts-following-wichit-motorcycle-dispute/

Photo courtesy of Emergency Thailand In a shocking turn of events yesterday evening, a minor motorcycle collision in Wichit escalated into a deadly knife fight, resulting in one man's death and three others injured. The police are now investigating this violent altercation that unfolded after tempers flared on the roads. At around 10pm, Wichit Police responded to a disturbing knife attack on Soi 3, Irrawaddy 1. Upon arrival, officers found 37-year-old Pornpot U-chi unconscious with a severe neck injury, alongside three others nursing knife wounds. The incident originated at approximately 8pm, when tensions first sparked between motorcyclists Kritsana Boonthanachot and 26-year-old Anuson Sukkhao, after being cut off by Pornpot. A heated argument ensued but was temporarily defused as the parties dispersed. The situation reignited when Pornpot allegedly returned an hour later and knocked over Kritsana’s parked bike, further fuelling the altercation. In response, Kritsana, along with Anuson and 26-year-old Sirawich Meeko, confronted Pornpot at his home. During this confrontation, Pornpot brandished a 1.5-foot-long ceremonial sword, leading to a violent clash between the men, all sustaining injuries. Emergency services transported Pornpot to Vachira Phuket Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The other three men received medical treatment for their wounds. Police have since confiscated the sword as evidence and are actively investigating the incident to decide on potential charges. They urge the community to seek lawful resolutions to disputes, discouraging acts of violence, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Tuk Tuk Race in Bangkok Ends in Tragic Crash, Injury to Three Pictures courtesy of The Nation In a startling incident in Bangkok, a high-speed tuk tuk race turned catastrophic as two of the city's iconic three-wheeled vehicles collided, leaving three individuals seriously injured. The accident unfolded on March 3, at around 10pm on Ratchadaphisek Road, within the Chong Nonsi area, under the watch of Police Lieutenant Colonel Thiradej Sonklin from the Bang Phong Phang Police Station. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353549-tuk-tuk-race-in-bangkok-ends-in-tragic-crash-injury-to-three/

Pictures courtesy of The Nation In a startling incident in Bangkok, a high-speed tuk tuk race turned catastrophic as two of the city's iconic three-wheeled vehicles collided, leaving three individuals seriously injured. The accident unfolded on March 3, at around 10pm on Ratchadaphisek Road, within the Chong Nonsi area, under the watch of Police Lieutenant Colonel Thiradej Sonklin from the Bang Phong Phang Police Station. Eyewitnesses recounted the reckless scene of the two tuk tuks racing side by side, each vying to outpace the other. The race took a perilous turn when one driver made a dangerous lane change, leading to a collision that flipped their vehicle. Among the injured is 28-year-old Pichit, who was driving the overturned tuk tuk and is now in hospital with a severe head injury. The other driver and his passenger sustained broken legs. The police, now probing the incident, have initiated a comprehensive investigation, awaiting crucial blood alcohol test results to understand the drivers' conditions during the race. This event has sparked public outcry over the lax enforcement of traffic rules, with residents urging stringent measures to curb such risky behaviours amongst tuk tuk drivers, especially during quieter night-time hours. This unfortunate crash shines a spotlight on the need for increased safety awareness around these popular, yet potentially perilous, vehicles that dart through Bangkok streets, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Reckless Driver 'Pete Red Mazda' Under Fire for Motorbike Crash - video Photo via ThaiRath In a dramatic turn of events, Thai motorists, outraged by the reckless antics of 'Pete Red Mazda,' have initiated legal proceedings against the notorious driver. Known for his aggressive behaviour, particularly towards motorcyclists, Pete, whose real name isn't disclosed, became infamous after sharing controversial dashcam footage on Facebook. In his videos, he often blamed fellow road users for mishaps, including a recent high-speed collision with a motorcycle in Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353548-reckless-driver-pete-red-mazda-under-fire-for-motorbike-crash-video/

Photo via ThaiRath In a dramatic turn of events, Thai motorists, outraged by the reckless antics of 'Pete Red Mazda,' have initiated legal proceedings against the notorious driver. Known for his aggressive behaviour, particularly towards motorcyclists, Pete, whose real name isn't disclosed, became infamous after sharing controversial dashcam footage on Facebook. In his videos, he often blamed fellow road users for mishaps, including a recent high-speed collision with a motorcycle in Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok. The root of the public outcry stems from Pete’s latest dashcam footage, showcasing him recklessly overtaking vehicles before crashing into a motorcyclist. Instead of showing remorse, Pete accused the rider of causing the incident, even engaging in online exchanges mocking the victim. Outraged viewers quickly condemned Pete's actions, taking to social media to voice their support for the motorcyclist, identified as 49-year-old Jintakarn. Encouraged by public backing, Jintakarn pursued legal action, asserting that Pete’s driving constituted attempted murder. The resulting controversy spurred other motorists to come forward with their own allegations against Pete, painting a picture of a pattern of road rage and intimidation. This backlash intensified after a past photo of Pete surfaced, showing him with a gun in his vehicle, escalating concerns over his threatening behaviour. Pete's subsequent public apology, paired with pleas to spare his workplace from the fallout, did little to quell the uproar. His employers have since suspended him pending further investigation. As Pete remains elusive, having deleted his social media accounts, the Thai police continue their attempts to contact him. Meanwhile, the legal proceedings against Pete move forward, potentially setting a precedent for addressing reckless driving on Thailand's roads, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Daily Rentals in Bangkok Condos: A Growing Legal Dilemma Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In the bustling neighbourhood of Sukhumvit 11, a condominium is drawing ire from its residents and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). Allegations have surfaced that half of the building's 450 units are being rented out daily on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com. This has shone a spotlight on Thailand's ongoing struggle with enforcing short-term rental laws. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353547-daily-rentals-in-bangkok-condos-a-growing-legal-dilemma/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In the bustling neighbourhood of Sukhumvit 11, a condominium is drawing ire from its residents and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). Allegations have surfaced that half of the building's 450 units are being rented out daily on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com. This has shone a spotlight on Thailand's ongoing struggle with enforcing short-term rental laws. The root of the issue appears to be a lax enforcement of existing laws, such as the 1979 Building Control Act, according to which such rentals could be deemed illegal. Although the BMA conducted an inspection and identified these activities, no legal measures have been taken. A letter from the Wattana district office, sent in January, sought further details on unit owners violating these laws, but outcomes remain pending. A foreign resident, also a unit owner, expressed concerns over the disruptive nature and safety risks brought by these transient guests. He highlighted that daily check-ins have been organised, and housekeeping services are visibly operating to accommodate the continuous flow of guests. The situation exacerbates as signs prohibiting such rentals have been removed. Speculation surrounds a Taiwanese national, who since mid-2022 has chaired the condo’s board and is allegedly managing the rental operation. Furthermore, claims suggest that a significant portion of these arrangements involve long-term lessees subletting units for short stays, with some owners possibly unaware of the breach in legality. The condo developer is reported to have actively participated by allocating units for this scheme. The juristic management recently shifted to a company linked to a prominent firm on the Stock Exchange of Thailand, yet this has done little to curb daily rentals. Patcha Techaruvichit of the Thai Hotels Association highlighted that the phenomenon extends beyond Sukhumvit 11, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Pratunam Market. She emphasised that, while some countries are adapting to the model, Thailand ought to tread carefully, given potential safety discrepancies compared to standard hotels. The issue underscores a broader trend of weak law enforcement, leaving many residents like our source frustrated and helpless, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Thai Court Allows Class-Action on CPF's Role in Blackchin Tilapia Invasion File photo for reference only In a significant legal development, the Bangkok South Civil Court has greenlit a class-action lawsuit against Thailand's major agro-industry player, Charoen Pokphand Foods PCL (CPF). The case, fueled by farmers, accuses the conglomerate of environmental harm due to the invasive blackchin tilapia disrupting local ecosystems. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353546-thai-court-allows-class-action-on-cpfs-role-in-blackchin-tilapia-invasion/