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Police Rescue Hoax Diverts Private Jet Mid-Air to Pune Photo courtesy of Marathi News In an extraordinary twist, a private jet carrying Rishiraj Sawant, son of former Maharashtra minister Tanaji Sawant, and two friends was redirected back to Pune following a shocking kidnap hoax. The flight, en route to Bangkok, was turned around on Monday, February 10, after an anonymous tip-off claimed Rishiraj had been abducted. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351687-police-rescue-hoax-diverts-private-jet-mid-air-to-pune/

Photo courtesy of Marathi News In an extraordinary twist, a private jet carrying Rishiraj Sawant, son of former Maharashtra minister Tanaji Sawant, and two friends was redirected back to Pune following a shocking kidnap hoax. The flight, en route to Bangkok, was turned around on Monday, February 10, after an anonymous tip-off claimed Rishiraj had been abducted. Initially dismissed as a prank, aviation officials acted after receiving orders from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Ministry of Civil Aviation. An airline executive described the mid-air recall as unprecedented, noting such diversions usually only occur for medical or technical reasons. While flying over Port Blair, the plane’s navigation screens were turned off to avoid alarming passengers. Meanwhile, Rishiraj and his companions were unaware of the detour, thinking they were still headed to Bangkok. Upon landing in Pune around 8 pm, they were taken by surprise as security forces boarded the aircraft. The saga began earlier that day when Pune police received an anonymous call about Rishiraj’s alleged kidnapping. His father promptly reported it, prompting immediate police action. However, it later turned out that Rishiraj had hired the jet for a secret business trip, fearing familial disapproval. Local Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders have questioned whether the minister influenced the swift police action that led to the flight's recall. Authorities have yet to confirm any further investigations or actions in response to this surprising incident, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-13

Thailand Urged to Boost Health Services for Border Refugees Photo courtesy of KhaoSod The Ministry of Public Health in Thailand faces growing pressure to improve healthcare services in refugee shelters along the Thai-Myanmar border. This comes as the United States halts funding for health programs run by the International Rescue Committee for three months, prompting the closure of some facilities in these shelters. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351686-thailand-urged-to-boost-health-services-for-border-refugees/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod The Ministry of Public Health in Thailand faces growing pressure to improve healthcare services in refugee shelters along the Thai-Myanmar border. This comes as the United States halts funding for health programs run by the International Rescue Committee for three months, prompting the closure of some facilities in these shelters. Surapong Kongchantuk, a former subcommittee chair on ethnic human rights, highlighted the urgent need for permanent healthcare facilities and volunteer health workers in these temporary shelters. Surapong has a long history of advocacy for stateless individuals and migrant workers, emphasizing that without proper healthcare, the risk of infectious diseases spreading increases. In response, Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin announced measures such as setting up a command center for patient care coordination, issuing guidelines to border hospitals, and deploying weekly mobile medical teams. There's also a push for telemedicine to minimize travel needs. The ministry aims to address immediate healthcare needs with an emergency referral system to major hospitals, the provision of special ambulances, and enhanced funding for border hospitals. Additional medical supplies and sanitation measures are also in place. However, Surapong argues these steps are insufficient. He insists on the need for on-site permanent healthcare resources and trained medical staff within shelters, emphasizing the fundamental human right to healthcare. The refugee situation has worsened with reduced international aid. Surapong suggests allowing refugees to work legally in Thailand, addressing both their livelihood needs and the country's labor shortages. Over 800,000 refugees currently reside in these temporary shelters, including many potential workers who could contribute to Thailand’s economy. Without prompt action, Surapong warns of dire consequences, underscoring the importance of valuing every human life. He calls for a robust government policy to address the ongoing challenges faced by refugees in Thailand, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-13

Teen Fugitives Nabbed After Dramatic Escape in Thailand Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Two young boys, aged 13 and 14, are back in custody after their daring escape from a juvenile detention transport in Chaiyaphum province. The boys were originally detained for separate charges, one involving robbery and the other meth possession. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351583-teens-daring-escape-from-custody-search-underway/#findComment-19585057

Teen Fugitives Nabbed After Dramatic Escape in Thailand Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Two young boys, aged 13 and 14, are back in custody after their daring escape from a juvenile detention transport in Chaiyaphum province. The boys were originally detained for separate charges, one involving robbery and the other meth possession. The breakout occurred on February 11 during a routine transfer to Nakhon Ratchasima. Taking advantage of a red light stop near Pakham Market on Suranarai Road, the boys dashed from the vehicle. An extensive search ensued, but they remained elusive initially. The next day, a major search effort spearheaded by Deputy Police Commander Police Colonel Kachen Sateputta, and other local officials was launched. With the help of six drones equipped with thermal imaging, authorities scoured the area. Chaiyaphum's Kaset Sombun Police Station was also alerted to keep an eye on the boys' home neighborhoods, while their families were urged to cooperate by encouraging the teens to turn themselves in. The breakthrough came at 5 PM on February 12, thanks to a vigilant local cattle herder. He reported encountering two unfamiliar boys near Wat Pa Wiwek Tham, about 8 kilometers from where they escaped. The boys openly mentioned their escape but fled when questioned further. Police swiftly encircled the area, locating them in a nearby sugarcane field. Exhausted and hungry, the boys were taken back into custody and returned to the juvenile detention center for further processing, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-13

Beach Birthday Brawl: Stabbing Shock Scandalizes Pattaya Early this morning, Pattaya beach became the scene of a violent altercation that sent waves through its socializing tourists, both Thai and foreign. Around 1:06 a.m. on February 13, Police Lieutenant Chaowalit Suwanmanee and local rescue teams rushed to Soi 10, responding to the alarming situation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351677-beach-birthday-brawl-stabbing-shock-scandalizes-pattaya/

Early this morning, Pattaya beach became the scene of a violent altercation that sent waves through its socializing tourists, both Thai and foreign. Around 1:06 a.m. on February 13, Police Lieutenant Chaowalit Suwanmanee and local rescue teams rushed to Soi 10, responding to the alarming situation. Among the shocked bystanders, 33-year-old Jakkrit Phimngern was found suffering from stab wounds to his neck and right arm. First responders provided initial treatment before taking him to a nearby hospital. The alleged attacker, later captured by police nearby, is a beach mat vendor. The vendor claimed the trouble started when Jakkrit's group, renting a mat for a birthday celebration, exchanged insults with him. The dispute spiraled into violence when Jakkrit reportedly grabbed the vendor’s neck, prompting a retaliatory stabbing before the vendor fled. Witnesses confirmed the fight, leading police to swiftly locate the suspect hiding in a nearby alley. Along with detaining him, police discovered a packet of crystal meth at the scene, adding another layer to the drama. However, the knife used in the attack remains missing. A friend of Jakkrit, 31-year-old Bee, stated that he organized the birthday gathering and rented from the vendor, whom he also previously employed. Bee suggested the vendor might have been hallucinating from drug use, incorrectly believing the group was taunting him. The suspect, 34-year-old Prayot Rotmuang, known as Yok, tested positive for drug use. He admitted to using crystal meth but denied stabbing Jakkrit. Police continue to review CCTV footage to clarify events and move the investigation forward, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-13

Snoopy Takes Flight: Pattaya's Kite Festival Soars in 2025 Picture courtesy of Pattaya News Get ready for a sky full of wonder at the Pattaya International Kite on the Beach 2025! This year, the kite festival dazzles with a Snoopy theme, taking place from February 26th to March 2nd along a scenic two-kilometer stretch of Pattaya Beach. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351675-snoopy-takes-flight-pattayas-kite-festival-soars-in-2025/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya News Get ready for a sky full of wonder at the Pattaya International Kite on the Beach 2025! This year, the kite festival dazzles with a Snoopy theme, taking place from February 26th to March 2nd along a scenic two-kilometer stretch of Pattaya Beach. Organized by Central Pattaya with the support of the City of Pattaya, the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Pattaya Office, and the Pattaya Business & Tourism Association, this event promises to be the longest kite parade in Thailand. The festival is part of the exciting Summer Invitation campaign and will showcase an impressive range of kites, including 12-metre Snoopy, Charlie Brown, and Woodstock characters flying high over the beach. More than 150 kites crafted by talented creators from Australia, Switzerland, France, Cambodia, Germany, and Thailand will light up the sky. Daily shows include a thrilling Sport Kite performance by a team from Taiwan at 4pm, alongside main kite displays from 11am to 6pm. In addition to the breathtaking kite displays, visitors can enjoy a range of summer activities. Snap perfect shots at Instagram-worthy spots, indulge in over 50 delicious street food stalls at the Kite Food Market, or get creative at the exclusive Snoopy-themed Kite Painting Workshop. The workshop is available for Central X members who spend 3,000 baht or more. Pattaya Beach has proven to be a hotspot for successful festivals, with the International Fireworks Festival 2024 lighting up the coast last November 29 and 30. Pattaya's Mayor, Poramet Ngampichet, praised its excitement and safety, maintaining the tradition of well-organized events in the city, reported The Thaiger. Don't miss the chance to see a colorful explosion of creativity in the skies of Pattaya Beach this February! -- 2025-02-13

Pattaya's New Seafood Market Spruces Up for Grand Reopening Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News Pattaya is about to unveil its newly renovated Lan Pho Naklua Seafood Market, transforming it into a modern space for fresh seafood lovers. Deputy Mayor Wuttisak Ruemkijakarn led an inspection on February 11, joined by local officials and community members. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351674-pattayas-new-seafood-market-spruces-up-for-grand-reopening/

Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News Pattaya is about to unveil its newly renovated Lan Pho Naklua Seafood Market, transforming it into a modern space for fresh seafood lovers. Deputy Mayor Wuttisak Ruemkijakarn led an inspection on February 11, joined by local officials and community members. The revamp aims to offer an organized, inviting environment for both tourists and residents. With 90% of the construction complete, officials anticipate it will boost local incomes. The market will now feature a clean, hygienic area for up to 60 vendors. All vendors will return soon, with no additional stalls permitted, ensuring a neat setup. Waste management systems will be in place, and vendors are urged to maintain fair prices and cleanliness to enhance the market's appeal. The grand opening will soon invite everyone to enjoy its fresh seafood offerings, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-13

Child Lured and Assaulted: Urgent Hunt for Chon Buri Suspects A deeply troubling case has emerged from Chon Buri province, where a 10-year-old girl was subjected to a vicious assault. The harrowing incident occurred near her school in the Nong Yai district on February 11. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351673-child-lured-and-assaulted-urgent-hunt-for-chon-buri-suspects/

A deeply troubling case has emerged from Chon Buri province, where a 10-year-old girl was subjected to a vicious assault. The harrowing incident occurred near her school in the Nong Yai district on February 11. According to her mother, identified only as A, her daughter was lured by three men under the guise of receiving sweets. Once they had coaxed her from the school premises, the men allegedly assaulted her near a canal. The attack left her with severe injuries, for which she is now receiving critical care and urgent surgery at Chon Buri Hospital. Initially, the child, a fourth-grader, hesitated to reveal the attack, attributing her injuries to an innocent fall. However, the severity of her condition prompted her mother to seek medical evaluation. It was only after engaging with medical staff that the girl recounted the traumatising encounter. The assailants reportedly approached the girl while she was within the school's dome area, enticing her outside. The unspeakable violence that followed included violating her with a stick as two others restrained her. The chilling attack left the victim helpless, her cries unheard due to the isolated location. In the aftermath of this appalling event, the girl's mother is desperately calling for justice, urging local police to track down the three perpetrators. The incident has not only left the young victim in a fight for her recovery but also stirred a wave of anguish and urgency within her family for answers and swift justice. Authorities are now racing to piece together information and capture those responsible for this heinous act, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-13

Thailand's Tourist Boom: 4.8 Million Visitors So Far Photo courtesy of The ASEAN Post Thailand's tourism sector is thriving, with 4.8 million international visitors entering the country from January to February 9th this year, according to Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong. This bustling travel scene has significantly boosted the economy, contributing an impressive 234.9 billion baht in revenue during this period. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351672-thailands-tourist-boom-48-million-visitors-so-far/

Photo courtesy of The ASEAN Post Thailand's tourism sector is thriving, with 4.8 million international visitors entering the country from January to February 9th this year, according to Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong. This bustling travel scene has significantly boosted the economy, contributing an impressive 234.9 billion baht in revenue during this period. Leading the pack are Chinese tourists, totalling 825,617, followed by travellers from Malaysia, Russia, South Korea, and India. The re-emergence of tourists after worldwide travel restrictions is being met with enthusiasm in Thailand as these numbers mark a hopeful sign of recovery. In recent weeks, there has been a notable increase in arrivals from long-haul markets such as Russia and France, credited to strong promotional efforts, additional flight routes, and school breaks in these countries. However, short-haul markets like South Korea have seen a slight dip post-Chinese New Year, attributed to local issues impacting travel decisions. The fascinating mix in tourist origins paints a dynamic picture of Thailand's global appeal. Despite a minor weekly fluctuation, the steady flow of visitors averaging 119,630 daily highlights Thailand’s irresistible charm and strategic hospitality initiatives. The Thai government is gearing up to sustain these impressive figures with upcoming promotional campaigns and events, like the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025. Moreover, ongoing safety assurances aim to maintain confidence among tourists, particularly from China, despite lingering concerns from a recent trafficking incident involving Chinese actor Wang Xing. Looking ahead, Thailand is not only focused on maintaining its allure but is actively enhancing visitor experiences to meet an ambitious target of 35.5 million tourists next year, 6.7 million of whom are anticipated to be from China. The nation stands ready to welcome and wow visitors with its scenic beauty, culinary delights, and rich cultural heritage, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-13

Thailand's Smartphone Sales Surge: A Market Reborn Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's smartphone market bounced back dramatically in 2024 after two years of sluggish performance, supported by strategic financing plans and government initiatives. According to IDC, smartphone sales grew by an impressive 17.1%, with 16.9 million units shipped. Canalys reported a 7.1% increase, totaling 16.4 million units sold. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351671-thailands-smartphone-sales-surge-a-market-reborn/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's smartphone market bounced back dramatically in 2024 after two years of sluggish performance, supported by strategic financing plans and government initiatives. According to IDC, smartphone sales grew by an impressive 17.1%, with 16.9 million units shipped. Canalys reported a 7.1% increase, totaling 16.4 million units sold. This resurgence is expected to continue into early 2025. IDC analyst Apirat Ratanavichit urges vendors to capitalize on the momentum despite looming economic and political uncertainties. The numbers are significant: IDC recorded a 14% rise in sales in the first half of 2024, accelerating to 20% in the second half. Budget-friendly phones under $200 (about 7,000 baht) accounted for 56.9% of sales, a growth from 54.8%. In contrast, premium models over $1,000 (about 35,000 baht) saw a decrease from 12% to 9%. Ultra-budget phones priced under $100 (around 3,500 baht) grew from 11% to 14% of the market share. Mid-to-high-end models in the $400 to $800 range (14,000 to 28,000 baht) also grew, moving from 9.5% to 12.8%. The average selling price dipped by 7.5% to $336 (12,000 baht) in 2024. Interest in 5G technology surged, its market share climbing to 45.6% from 43.2%, driven by price reductions and the availability of affordable 5G Android phones. Oppo led the market with a 19.4% share, followed by Samsung at 19.2%, and Apple at 15.9%, with Xiaomi and Vivo trailing at 14.7% and 12.3% respectively. Apirat is optimistic, expecting continued strong performance fueled by economical yet feature-packed models and enticing 5G deals. Promotions and financial options are enhancing appeal for all customers, including those in the high-end segment. The Easy E-Receipt program is expected to stimulate sales for models above 10,000 baht this quarter. While Apirat remained silent on the controversy over pre-installed illegal loan apps on Oppo and Realme phones, both companies have taken corrective measures by removing these apps and promising future devices will be free from them. Canalys also reported a 7.1% market jump last year, highlighting a tight race between Oppo and Apple for fourth-quarter dominance, both securing a 17% share, followed by Vivo, Samsung, and Xiaomi. Looking regionally, Canalys noted a broader resurgence in Southeast Asia, with smartphone shipments reaching 96.7 million units in 2024, an 11% year-on-year increase. Oppo led this wave with an 18% market share, followed by Samsung at 17%, with Transsion, Xiaomi, and Vivo rounding out the top five, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-13

Tak Immigration Chief Replaced Amid Human Trafficking Concerns Photo courtesy of KhaoSod In response to reports of foreign nationals disappearing after being deceived into Thailand, the Immigration Bureau has reassigned the Tak Immigration Superintendent. The incident, suspected of involving human trafficking, has prompted swift action to maintain Thailand's image and integrity. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351668-tak-immigration-chief-replaced-amid-human-trafficking-concerns/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod In response to reports of foreign nationals disappearing after being deceived into Thailand, the Immigration Bureau has reassigned the Tak Immigration Superintendent. The incident, suspected of involving human trafficking, has prompted swift action to maintain Thailand's image and integrity. Acting Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, Police Major General Prashaya Prasansuk, issued an order (No. 24/2025) on February 12, transferring Police Colonel Bowornpop Sunthornrekha from his post in Tak province to the bureau’s Operations Centre. This decision follows media reports of tourists being lured into the country by fraudsters and vanishing near the Myanmar border, notably in the Mae Sot, Mae Ramat, and Phop Phra districts. The reassignment aims to facilitate a thorough investigation and assess potential police involvement in any misconduct. It is crucial to both uphold the reputation of the Immigration Bureau and enhance its effectiveness. Following this, Police Major General Prashaya also appointed Police Colonel Phloen Klinpayom, Deputy Commander of Immigration Division 3, as the Acting Superintendent of Tak Immigration through order No. 25/2025. This change takes effect immediately, pending further developments, to ensure continued oversight and action in response to these serious allegations, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-13

Student Hit by Car at School Crossing; Driver Faces Charges Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 14-year-old student from Suankularb Wittayalai School was injured when a car ran a red light and struck him while he was using a zebra crossing. The incident occurred on February 10 at around 2:50 PM on Tri Phet Road in front of the school, located in Bangkok's Phra Nakhon district. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351666-student-hit-by-car-at-school-crossing-driver-faces-charges/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 14-year-old student from Suankularb Wittayalai School was injured when a car ran a red light and struck him while he was using a zebra crossing. The incident occurred on February 10 at around 2:50 PM on Tri Phet Road in front of the school, located in Bangkok's Phra Nakhon district. The driver, named Chanjira, was reportedly distracted by her GPS and unfamiliar with the area when she drove her red Toyota through the crossing, hitting the student. The injured teenager was quickly taken to Klang Hospital for treatment. Police Lieutenant Colonel Seksan Chumchaem, Deputy Superintendent of Traffic at Phra Ratchawang, stated that charges have been filed against Chanjira for running a red light and reckless driving, which resulted in harm to another person, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-13

Thailand Halts New Firearm Permits to Combat Rising Gun Crime File photo for reference only Thailand is suspending the issuance of new firearm carrying permits for a year starting Friday, as part of a broader government mission to tackle increasing gun violence. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul signed the order, which was published in the Royal Gazette on Thursday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351665-thailand-halts-new-firearm-permits-to-combat-rising-gun-crime/

File photo for reference only Thailand is suspending the issuance of new firearm carrying permits for a year starting Friday, as part of a broader government mission to tackle increasing gun violence. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul signed the order, which was published in the Royal Gazette on Thursday. This decision reflects growing concerns about firearms being openly carried without just cause, often used to intimidate. According to Traisuree Taisaranakul, spokeswoman for the Ministry of Interior, such behaviour poses significant threats to public safety and undermines societal morale. Despite stringent measures in place, Thailand reports a staggering 6.2 million registered guns with another estimated 4 million unregistered firearms within the country. This unnerving presence of guns contributes to Thailand's global ranking of 15th in gun-related deaths as of 2022, according to the World Population Review. Previously, Mr Anutin suspended firearm permits following a tragic shooting incident involving rival student gangs in Bangkok’s Klong Toey district. Additionally, a significant police crackdown had confiscated over 2,000 illegal weapons following a deadly shooting at the Siam Paragon mall. In light of these events, the Thai government is also evaluating amendments to its firearms legislation, aiming to address loopholes in its current 76-year-old law. This latest move reflects Thailand's urgent response to persistent gun-related crimes, aiming to foster a safer environment, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-13

UPDATE: Thailand Considers Lifting Alcohol Sales Ban, Eyeing Economic Boost Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand is mulling over the possibility of lifting the longstanding ban on alcohol sales between 2pm and 5pm, as well as during religious holidays. This move, championed by the former chairperson of the Alcohol Beverage Business Association, aligns with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s directives aimed at boosting the economy by revisiting regulations seen as impediments. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351638-thai-pm-considers-easing-alcohol-sales-rules-to-boost-tourism/page/2/#findComment-19585026