snoop1130

Iran-Thai Tourism Exchange Set to Rise, Celebrates 70-Year Ties Photo courtesy of the Department of South Asian, Middle East and African Affairs In a move to bolster tourism exchanges with Thailand, Iran's ambassador to Bangkok, Nassereddin Heidari, declared the country's intentions during an event commemorating Iran's National Day on Tuesday, 11th February. He revealed that over 50,000 Iranians visited Thailand last year, highlighting it as an attractive destination. Iran is keen to increase this figure, welcoming more Thai visitors in return. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351663-iran-thai-tourism-exchange-set-to-rise-celebrates-70-year-ties/

Photo courtesy of the Department of South Asian, Middle East and African Affairs In a move to bolster tourism exchanges with Thailand, Iran's ambassador to Bangkok, Nassereddin Heidari, declared the country's intentions during an event commemorating Iran's National Day on Tuesday, 11th February. He revealed that over 50,000 Iranians visited Thailand last year, highlighting it as an attractive destination. Iran is keen to increase this figure, welcoming more Thai visitors in return. The Iranian embassy intends to stimulate Thai interest in exploring Iran through a series of promotional events. Similarly, the Iranian government is actively advertising Thailand to its tourists, seeking to deepen the travel relationship. A noteworthy step in this strategy was a recent tourism promotion event organised by the Iranian embassy, which attracted about 30 Thai tour agencies, showcasing Iran's offerings. This year, an even more profound bond is celebrated—the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Iran and Thailand. The Iranian embassy in Thailand, along with the Royal Thai Embassy in Tehran, plans to host a slew of events to commemorate and enrich people-to-people connections. Reflecting on their historical ties, which span roughly four hundred years, Heidari reminisced about the era when Persian merchants and scholars left their mark on Siam with unique cultural contributions and prized goods. He concludes that Thailand holds immense significance for Iran, with aspirations to elevate cooperation across cultural, political, and economic domains, including the vital tourism sector, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-13

Thailand Eyes $9 Billion Jackpot with Casino Ambitions File photo for reference only Thailand is on track to become a global gaming hotspot with ambitious plans to establish a lucrative casino industry. The country aims to tap into billions of dollars in revenue while boosting its thriving tourism sector. However, experts caution that success hinges on effective regulation, something that has previously been a challenge, as seen with the mishandled cannabis legalization in 2022. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351587-thailand-eyes-9-billion-jackpot-with-casino-ambitions/

File photo for reference only Thailand is on track to become a global gaming hotspot with ambitious plans to establish a lucrative casino industry. The country aims to tap into billions of dollars in revenue while boosting its thriving tourism sector. However, experts caution that success hinges on effective regulation, something that has previously been a challenge, as seen with the mishandled cannabis legalization in 2022. Fredric Gushin from Spectrum Gaming Group, who helped Singapore develop its successful casino industry, stated, "They want a transparent process that will protect their investment with appropriate regulation. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity." Thailand's potential to surpass Singapore’s glamorous casinos is being touted, with big players like Las Vegas Sands Corp, MGM Resorts International, and Galaxy Entertainment possibly showing interest. Though none of these companies have commented yet, Thailand remains a promising contender. To attract such industry giants, Thai authorities must ensure fairness, avoid favoring domestic players, and maintain a competitive development process. Last month, the cabinet approved a draft law to legalize gambling in entertainment complexes to bolster the economy, with GDP growth expected to be below 2.9% this year. The draft legislation, which is still under wraps, proposes a new commission to regulate gaming and collaborate with investors to establish these complexes. According to Citi, Thailand's gross gaming revenue could reach $9.1 billion at full capacity, putting it ahead of Singapore. With its casinos nestled in vibrant resorts, Singapore saw its casino sector as the fastest-growing in tourist receipts in 2024. Now, Thailand hopes to replicate that success on a grander scale, reported Thai PBS World. -- 2025-02-12

Teens' Daring Escape From Custody: Search Underway Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a bold escape, two teenagers fled a custody vehicle in Nakhon Ratchasima province yesterday. The pair, aged 13 and 14, were being transported to a juvenile detention center for separate charges of robbery and methamphetamine possession. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351583-teens-daring-escape-from-custody-search-underway/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a bold escape, two teenagers fled a custody vehicle in Nakhon Ratchasima province yesterday. The pair, aged 13 and 14, were being transported to a juvenile detention center for separate charges of robbery and methamphetamine possession. The escape took place around 3:30 PM near a traffic junction at Pakham Market, Phra Thong Kham district, as the vehicle slowed but hadn't fully stopped. Taking the chance, the teens opened a side window, jumped out, and vanished into a nearby forest. Immediate efforts to track down the escapees included police coordination with local rescue teams and deploying thermal imaging drones. Nithipong Klinhom, an official responsible for the transport, confirmed the incident. Eyewitness Klairung Kamnok, a local noodle vendor, was left astonished. He noticed the barefoot boys sprinting past his stall, moments before hearing loud honking from the custody van. The dramatic scene left him and others in disbelief as reports of the escape surfaced. Authorities continue the search for the juveniles, urging the public for any information that might assist in locating them, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-12

Tragedy in Bo Rai: Rubber Worker Kills Toddler Amid Drug Delusion Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a chilling incident that has rocked the Bo Rai district of Trat province, a 25-year-old rubber-tapping labourer known as Ton has been apprehended for the brutal murder of a one-year-old boy. The horrifying event took place in the early hours of February 11, when Ton, reportedly high on methamphetamine, fatally stabbed the child multiple times with a steel scraper at a rubber plantation lodging in Bo Phloi subdistrict. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351581-tragedy-in-bo-rai-rubber-worker-kills-toddler-amid-drug-delusion/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a chilling incident that has rocked the Bo Rai district of Trat province, a 25-year-old rubber-tapping labourer known as Ton has been apprehended for the brutal murder of a one-year-old boy. The horrifying event took place in the early hours of February 11, when Ton, reportedly high on methamphetamine, fatally stabbed the child multiple times with a steel scraper at a rubber plantation lodging in Bo Phloi subdistrict. The arrest was announced by Police Colonel Thanapon Temsara early on February 12, following a crime scene reconstruction in the presence of the bereaved family. Ton, a Mon national, confessed to the gruesome act, claiming he was under the influence of drugs and had feared an altercation with the child’s father, Chuan On, aged 36. Ton, who had allegedly consumed two methamphetamine pills, exhibited paranoid behaviour, which led to the tragic attack. The little boy suffered six vicious stab wounds to his abdomen, arms, and legs. Relatives immediately subdued Ton and notified the police, resulting in his swift arrest. The destroyed parents, Chuan On and Mamid, both 35 years old, shared their devastation, highlighting the absence of prior conflict with Ton. They explained that Ton, a relative who had recently arrived, was hired for nominal pay to help mind their son during their demanding overnight shifts. The community is reeling from the senseless loss, as the case underscores the dangerous consequences of drug misuse and highlights the vulnerabilities faced by transient workers and their hosts. The investigation continues, with local authorities urging for greater awareness and support for communities battling substance abuse, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-12

Thailand Braces for Influx Post-Myanmar Gang Release Crackdown Picture courtesY: MGR online Thailand is on high alert as the government prepares for a potential wave of foreigners freed from scam gangs in Myanmar. This comes after Thailand cut off electricity to pressure the gangs into releasing captives, as revealed by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai on Wednesday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351580-thailand-braces-for-influx-post-myanmar-gang-release-crackdown/

Picture courtesy: MGR online Thailand is on high alert as the government prepares for a potential wave of foreigners freed from scam gangs in Myanmar. This comes after Thailand cut off electricity to pressure the gangs into releasing captives, as revealed by Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai on Wednesday. Reports indicate gangs are beginning to release trapped workers, directing them towards Thailand, although the country cannot accommodate them all. Mr Phumtham made it clear that Thailand will not set up refugee camps and will only accept those whose native countries are willing to repatriate them. The Thai government has bolstered border security in anticipation. On Tuesday, Myanmar informed Thailand about 53 foreigners, including nationals from Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Kenya, and the Philippines, being sent to Tak province due to Myanmar's inability to care for them. Thai officials will conduct thorough assessments, ensuring there is no scam involvement. Should they pass these checks, arrangements will be made for their repatriation within a month. Additionally, there is potential for eased sanctions on services such as internet and electricity to Myanmar if they demonstrate eradication of scam centres. Despite the tense backdrop, Thailand remains committed to its approach amid external pressure, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-12

Pregnant Woman Mourns Husband Killed in Thai Police Shooting Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic incident in Bangkok yesterday has left a nine-month pregnant woman mourning the loss of her husband, Suphat, who was shot dead by police during a confrontation over motorcycle theft. The family has claimed that the police response was excessive. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351578-pregnant-woman-mourns-husband-killed-in-thai-police-shooting/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic incident in Bangkok yesterday has left a nine-month pregnant woman mourning the loss of her husband, Suphat, who was shot dead by police during a confrontation over motorcycle theft. The family has claimed that the police response was excessive. The encounter took place near the entrance to Prayoothong 2 Village in the Tha Raeng subdistrict, with officers laying in wait for a gang known to be involved in motorcycle thefts. Police reports indicate that four officers from Khan Na Yao were conducting surveillance when two suspects arrived on a black Yamaha XMAX motorcycle, both clad in black and with full-face helmets. As officers moved to apprehend the suspects, Suphat drew a firearm. In response, a policeman fired two shots, which resulted in Suphat's death on the spot. His accomplice managed to flee the scene. Suphat was wanted for previous offences, adding to the complexity of the situation. His family, however, contests the use of lethal force. Suphat's mother-in-law, who visited the scene with his pregnant partner, expressed shock at the incident, suggesting that Suphat had not demonstrated any violent behaviour in the past and questioning the necessity of the police’s actions. The stolen motorcycle, identified as a red Honda Wave 125i, was recovered at the scene. As investigations continue, the incident raises significant questions about law enforcement tactics and the balance between ensuring public safety and exercising restraint, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-12

Over 50 Myanmar Nationals Found Abandoned in Thai Forest Picture courtesy of amarintv In a startling discovery, more than 50 individuals, identified as Myanmar and Rohingya nationals, were found hiding in a forest near a village in Khao Kho district, Thailand. This group had been abandoned by human traffickers after being smuggled into the country, left to fend for themselves without support. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351577-over-50-myanmar-nationals-found-abandoned-in-thai-forest/

Picture courtesy of amarintv In a startling discovery, more than 50 individuals, identified as Myanmar and Rohingya nationals, were found hiding in a forest near a village in Khao Kho district, Thailand. This group had been abandoned by human traffickers after being smuggled into the country, left to fend for themselves without support. The incident came to light following a Facebook post by Phaitoon Khotsombat, a district official, who shared footage of the group and expressed disbelief over the occurrence. Around 9pm on February 10th, two exhausted foreign men approached local villagers seeking food, stating there were many more individuals who were also hungry. Acting on this tip-off, Phaitoon and his team discovered the group nestled in the forest. Communication challenges necessitated the help of a local Burmese worker to translate. The group shared how they had entered Thailand through the Mae Sot district in Tak province and were transported by truck to Nakhon Sawan province. They were promised work in Pattaya, Chon Buri province, but were ultimately abandoned in Khao Kho with false assurances of further transport. The group comprised 57 people—17 men, five women, and 35 minors under the age of 18. Local authorities in Khao Kho have been notified for further investigations. On the morning of February 11th, three additional men from the group were found wandering along a road in the Nang Ruea subdistrict and were taken into custody. Assisted by a translator, these men confirmed their illegal entry through Mae Sot as part of a larger group smuggled in. They were left waiting for a truck that never arrived, resulting in their dispersal and subsequent detainment by the police. Legal proceedings are now underway for those involved, reorted The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-12

Buriram Assault: 13-Year-Old Attacked by Schoolmates for an Hour Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In Buriram's Lahan Sai district, a 13-year-old student has accused her schoolmates of a prolonged assault. The Grade 7 student, accompanied by her parents, filed a police report after being attacked by at least 10 classmates on February 10. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351576-buriram-assault-13-year-old-attacked-by-schoolmates-for-an-hour/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In Buriram's Lahan Sai district, a 13-year-old student has accused her schoolmates of a prolonged assault. The Grade 7 student, accompanied by her parents, filed a police report after being attacked by at least 10 classmates on February 10. The incident allegedly began around 9 a.m. when the student was instructed to return to her classroom. Once seated, she says she was slapped and forcefully removed from the school premises. The attack escalated as she was dragged to a toilet in another building, where the beating continued for an hour. During this time, she suffered slaps, head stamping, and her head was smashed against a toilet bowl. The student claims the motive for the attack was her alleged negative remarks about a classmate. Her mother, identified as Hathairat, explained that their daughter lives with her grandparents due to work commitments in different towns. Hathairat learned of the incident through a video sent to her, prompting her to involve the police after it circulated online. She expressed concern over school security and her daughter's reluctance to return to school, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-12

Phuket Probes Student Injury Claims at Patong Kindergarten Picture courtesy of Patong Municipality Officials in Phuket have launched an investigation into reported injuries sustained by students at Patong Kindergarten, following concerns raised on social media. The spotlight turned on the school after images surfaced of a young boy bearing bruises on his face and a significant wrist injury. His parents initially received an account suggesting the injuries resulted from a scuffle with another child at the institution, a claim they have since disputed. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351575-phuket-probes-student-injury-claims-at-patong-kindergarten/

Picture courtesy of Patong Municipality Officials in Phuket have launched an investigation into reported injuries sustained by students at Patong Kindergarten, following concerns raised on social media. The spotlight turned on the school after images surfaced of a young boy bearing bruises on his face and a significant wrist injury. His parents initially received an account suggesting the injuries resulted from a scuffle with another child at the institution, a claim they have since disputed. In response, a high-level meeting took place on February 10, comprising Phuket Vice Governor Ronnarong Thipsiri, Patong Mayor Chalermsak Maneesri, and other officials, including police and social services representatives. They aim to carry out a thorough investigation, with an assurance of impartiality over the coming fortnight. Police have indicated readiness to initiate legal proceedings if required. Deputy Mayor Lalita Maneesri stressed that the municipality has been resolute in addressing the incident since its report, emphasising the importance of fairness as evidence is reviewed. Meanwhile, the parents of the injured boy have opted to keep him home pending the investigation, contemplating a school transfer for his safety. Mayor Chalermsak assured the community of efforts underway to resolve the matter, highlighting plans to beef up security by installing CCTV in all classrooms to reassure parents. The Patong Police have called upon those involved to provide honest testimonies, maintaining the investigation's integrity. Meanwhile, psychological officers are engaging with the affected children. Deputy Mayor Lalita suggested temporary reassignment of teachers during the inquiry and using child experts to aid in fact-finding. This comes after inconsistencies emerged from the school’s initial reports, prompting heightened scrutiny from both the school and involved families. As the probe continues, updates are anticipated, with officials urging patience as they strive to ensure justice and safety for all parties involved, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-12

Thai Government Considers Border Ban to Combat Call-Scam Gangs Picture courtesy of Assawin Pinitwong The Thai government is contemplating stricter measures against Myanmar-based call-scam gangs, including potentially banning suspected accomplices from border areas and halting exports of solar panels to Myanmar, according to senior officials. This step follows ongoing discussions to intensify efforts in tackling the issue. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351573-thai-government-considers-border-ban-to-combat-call-scam-gangs/

Picture courtesy of Assawin Pinitwong The Thai government is contemplating stricter measures against Myanmar-based call-scam gangs, including potentially banning suspected accomplices from border areas and halting exports of solar panels to Myanmar, according to senior officials. This step follows ongoing discussions to intensify efforts in tackling the issue. Secretary General Chatchai Bangchuad of the National Security Council stated that while current anti-scam efforts will persist, further strategies are on the table if deemed necessary. Proposed by the Commerce Ministry, these additional measures could involve restrictions on solar panel exports to prevent gangs from utilizing alternative power sources. Moreover, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced plans to limit border access for individuals suspected of gang affiliations, specifically targeting crossings from Thailand into Myanmar's Myawaddy region. Intelligence indicates that hundreds of call-scam gangs are operating near the Thai borders, prompting the government to actively repatriate Thai citizens coerced into these networks. Additionally, the cutting of internet services to Myanmar's border areas had a noticeable impact on gang operations, according to Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong of the Digital Economy and Society. Efforts to thwart gang access to satellite internet services, such as Starlink, have also been initiated. Prasert mentioned the seizure of smuggled Starlink dishes in Thailand and adjustments made to local internet signals, alongside the severance of illegal internet cables feeding neighbouring regions. This crackdown follows the Thai government's recent power, oil, and internet supply cuts to key Myanmar regions amid cooperation with Chinese security officials. The actions target predominantly Chinese gangs involved in large-scale scams affecting both Chinese and Thai nationals, who are often lured into exploitative conditions. With electricity still running in gang locations despite broader power cuts, the proposal to restrict solar panel exports remains under serious consideration, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-12

Norwegian Travellers Use Unique Method for Baby's Beach Trip - video Picture courtesy of @toraytravels TikTok A Norwegian couple, world-renowned for their family travel adventures, has sparked a lively debate after revealing their unique strategy to bring their ten-month-old son into a hidden Thai beach. The adventurous duo, Tora and Marcus, faced the dilemma of accessing the Emerald Cave on Koh Muk, which leads to a secluded lagoon accessible only by swimming. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351572-norwegian-travellers-use-unique-method-for-babys-beach-trip-video/

Picture courtesy of @toraytravels TikTok A Norwegian couple, world-renowned for their family travel adventures, has sparked a lively debate after revealing their unique strategy to bring their ten-month-old son into a hidden Thai beach. The adventurous duo, Tora and Marcus, faced the dilemma of accessing the Emerald Cave on Koh Muk, which leads to a secluded lagoon accessible only by swimming. To include their baby in the experience, the couple, guided by a local's suggestion, safely placed their son inside a plastic container. With Marcus and a guide in tow, the container floated securely to the hidden shore. "Our guide had done this many times before, and it felt completely safe," Tora said, braving initial apprehension. Tora, sharing their experience on TikTok, received mixed reactions online. While some praised their ingenuity, others raised safety concerns. One viewer remarked on the inventive method, stating, "Very creative way to let your baby enjoy the moment." However, sceptics questioned the safety, noting the absence of a life jacket for the baby—"Seriously guys, come on," echoed online critics. Despite criticism, Tora reflected on lessons learned from travelling, especially in non-Western regions. "Our extensive travels have taught us that parenting sometimes involves stepping outside conventional comfort zones," Tora explained. Addressing feedback, she remained unfazed, stating: "I've been doing this for years; criticism doesn’t impact me anymore, particularly when I align my choices with my values." The debate highlights diverse perspectives on parenting and travelling, resonating with audiences worldwide curious about balancing safety and adventurous parenting, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-12

Car Plays Spooky Music After Crash Despite Dead Battery Photo courtesy of KhaoSod In an unusual incident, a car involved in a crash mysteriously began playing a country music song, despite a damaged battery and the keys being turned off. The incident was captured in a TikTok video, which left social media users puzzled. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351514-car-plays-spooky-music-after-crash-despite-dead-battery/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod In an unusual incident, a car involved in a crash mysteriously began playing a country music song, despite a damaged battery and the keys being turned off. The incident was captured in a TikTok video, which left social media users puzzled. Yesterday, February 10, Chakkrit Hadee, the owner of a slide car garage and a related car cemetery, shared his experience with Khaosod Online regarding the incident. Chakkrit explained that the accident occurred between 3am and 4am when the car veered off the road near the Chet Samian intersection in Photharam district, Ratchaburi province. Upon arrival, his employees assessed the vehicle’s condition and doubted any survival due to the severity. However, they found no fatalities, only a young woman in her early 20s who was injured. As the team retrieved the car, they were startled by the sound of an old country music song playing, despite the late hour and desolate surroundings. The unexpected music spooked the staff, prompting them to quickly transport the car to a local police station. After finishing at the station, they moved the vehicle to the car cemetery, where the mysterious music began playing again. Further examination revealed the car had a damaged battery and locked ignition, with no fatalities inside. Chakkrit remains uncertain about how the music started playing under these unusual circumstances, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-11

Foreign Motorcyclist Hit-and-Run: Local Rider Seeks Justice After Accident -video Photo via Pracharthai A Thai food delivery rider named Surasak is searching for justice after a foreign motorcyclist hit him and then sped away on a busy road in Pattaya. The incident unfolded around 2pm yesterday on Khao Phra Tamnak Road. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351512-foreign-motorcyclist-hit-and-run-local-rider-seeks-justice-after-accident-video/