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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. Surasak, 35, was riding his motorcycle in the middle lane when the foreign motorcyclist approached from the right lane, too close for comfort. The collision caused Surasak to lose control and crash onto the road, narrowly avoiding being hit by vehicles behind him due to a traffic jam's slower pace. Although a taxi driver rushed to Surasak’s aid, the foreign motorcyclist chose to flee the scene. Surasak, fortunately suffering only minor injuries, expressed his disappointment that the motorcyclist didn’t even stop to check on him or apologise. He has yet to file a police report but plans to visit Mueang Pattaya Police Station soon. Meanwhile, he’s shared dashcam footage with news agencies to help locate the motorcyclist responsible, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-11

Thailand Slips in Global Corruption Ranking for 2024 File photo for reference only Thailand's efforts to combat corruption have taken a step back, as its score fell by one point in the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), sliding to 107th place out of 180 countries. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351511-thailand-slips-in-global-corruption-ranking-for-2024/

File photo for reference only Thailand's efforts to combat corruption have taken a step back, as its score fell by one point in the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), sliding to 107th place out of 180 countries. In contrast, Denmark secured the top spot, with Finland, Singapore, New Zealand, Luxembourg, and Norway following closely behind. Within the ASEAN region, Thailand stands fifth, trailing Singapore at the forefront, followed by Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Notably, Singapore, Indonesia, and Laos made strides in improving their rankings this year. At the bottom of the index is South Sudan, ranked 180th, highlighting the ongoing challenges in battling corruption. The index, a leading global measure, evaluates public sector corruption based on expert and business perceptions, emphasizing the need for Thailand to enhance its anti-corruption efforts, reported Thai PBS World. -- 2025-02-11

Thailand Launches Centre to Combat Trafficking in Myanmar Scam Rings Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World In a bold move to combat human trafficking and scam operations, Thailand has set up an international coordination centre to rescue individuals trapped in Myanmar's fraud centres. Police Inspector-General Thatchai Pitaneelaboot revealed that the new unit, based in Tak province, would collaborate with global law enforcement to locate and liberate victims caught in these illicit activities, irrespective of their nationality. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351509-thailand-launches-centre-to-combat-trafficking-in-myanmar-scam-rings/

Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World In a bold move to combat human trafficking and scam operations, Thailand has set up an international coordination centre to rescue individuals trapped in Myanmar's fraud centres. Police Inspector-General Thatchai Pitaneelaboot revealed that the new unit, based in Tak province, would collaborate with global law enforcement to locate and liberate victims caught in these illicit activities, irrespective of their nationality. This development follows suggestions from China’s Vice Minister for Public Security, Liu Zhongyi, who highlighted the plight of numerous Chinese nationals trafficked into Myanmar through Thai borders, forced into scam call centres. “Thai authorities have reported more than 100 cases of missing individuals from the Philippines and Bangladesh, believed to be entrapped in Myanmar's scam operations,” Thatchai said, emphasising the international nature of the crime. In a significant disruption, Thailand recently cut off essential services, including internet, to major scam hubs on February 5, aiming to dismantle these networks. Furthering internal efforts, Thai police have been active within their borders. Just yesterday, in Surin province, two Vietnamese nationals were detained, linked to a Cambodian scam syndicate. Authorities discovered a haul of equipment used for forging documents, pointing to an organised operation. Notably, this follows the escape of a trafficked Chinese man from a moving vehicle en route to Cambodia, underscoring the urgent need for intervention. Thailand’s response signifies a strong stance against trafficking, with law enforcement encouraging families to report suspicions. The initiative represents a significant step toward dismantling human trafficking networks and bringing perpetrators to justice, as the international community stands ready to support this crucial mission, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-11

British Tourist Arrested at Manchester Airport on Drugs Charges Photo courtesy of WhatPub A 21-year-old British man found himself in handcuffs instead of holiday souvenirs upon his return from Thailand. Matthew Crehan, a resident of Dentons Green Lane in St Helens, was arrested on Saturday, February 8th, at Manchester Airport. Authorities acted promptly, charging him with multiple drug-related offences, including possession and supply of class A, B, and C substances such as cocaine, cannabis resin, ketamine, and nitrous oxide. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351507-british-tourist-arrested-at-manchester-airport-on-drugs-charges/

Photo courtesy of WhatPub A 21-year-old British man found himself in handcuffs instead of holiday souvenirs upon his return from Thailand. Matthew Crehan, a resident of Dentons Green Lane in St Helens, was arrested on Saturday, February 8th, at Manchester Airport. Authorities acted promptly, charging him with multiple drug-related offences, including possession and supply of class A, B, and C substances such as cocaine, cannabis resin, ketamine, and nitrous oxide. His arrest is a cog in the wheel of Operation Toxic, an integral part of Project Medusa, dedicated to tackling County Lines drug operations and protecting young individuals from criminal exploitation. Merseyside Police confirmed Crehan's arrest, signalling their unyielding commitment to disrupting organised crime networks in the region. Following the arrest, Crehan has been remanded in custody, awaiting his appearance at Wirral Magistrates' Court today, February 11th. Merseyside Police encourage the public to remain vigilant and to report any drug-related activities they suspect. Tips can be shared via Merseyside Police's Twitter @MerPolCC, by calling 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111. This arrest underscores heightened efforts to intercept drug traffickers as they return to UK soil, aiming to dismantle the networks that threaten community safety and exploit vulnerable individuals, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-11

Secret Door Controversy Hits Don Mueang International Airport Photo via Channel 8 A recent scandal has erupted in as former Member of Parliament Watchara Phetthong accused a transport minister and officials of corruption involving a secret door at Don Mueang International Airport. This door allegedly allowed people to bypass immigration and customs, raising serious security and regulatory concerns. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351499-secret-door-controversy-hits-don-mueang-international-airport/

Photo via Channel 8 A recent scandal has erupted in Bangkok as former Member of Parliament Watchara Phetthong accused a transport minister and officials of corruption involving a secret door at Don Mueang International Airport. This door allegedly allowed people to bypass immigration and customs, raising serious security and regulatory concerns. Watchara lodged a complaint with the Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (ONACC) following tips from local residents and airport staff. The door in question provides access from a public road directly into a restricted airport area, situated within a hangar owned by a private company. The former MP expressed concerns about the potential for criminal activities. He warned that the secret passage could be used for smuggling goods and bringing illegal items into Thailand, mentioning it might operate 24 hours a day. His accusation challenges those in power to examine not only the security breach but also the official permissions granted for such access. Watchara called for transparency and accountability from those involved, demanding explanations from the transport minister during the period of the door’s installation, as well as the directors of Airports of Thailand (AOT), Don Mueang Airport, and the private company owning the hangar. He argues this situation breaches international aviation standards set by IATA, ICAO, and EASA, underscoring a potential threat to both national and international aviation security. The controversy has sparked widespread concern, with public and political figures urging swift governmental action to evaluate and rectify the claims, ensuring the integrity and safety of Thailand's airport operations. As the investigation unfolds, the public awaits further clarification and decisive measures from the authorities, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-11

Google Eyes Bigger Stake in Thai Digital Projects File photo for reference only Google is looking to expand its involvement in Thai government projects, according to Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan. During his recent visit to the United States, the minister met with Google executives to discuss collaborations in advancing Thailand’s digital economy, cybersecurity, and cutting-edge technology investments. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351498-google-eyes-bigger-stake-in-thai-digital-projects/

File photo for reference only Google is looking to expand its involvement in Thai government projects, according to Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan. During his recent visit to the United States, the minister met with Google executives to discuss collaborations in advancing Thailand’s digital economy, cybersecurity, and cutting-edge technology investments. The discussions highlighted Google's interest in government projects, particularly focusing on cloud services and data centers. Besides Google, tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon have already made significant investments in Thailand. Minister Pichai stated that Google recognized Thailand's leadership in the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA) negotiations. Google is eager to contribute to DEFA, which aims to set a global standard for digital economy cooperation. Key issues covered include adapting intellectual property laws for technologies like AI and enhancing cybersecurity to safeguard data and online transactions worldwide. The goal is to complete DEFA negotiations by this year, potentially creating the world's first regional digital economy agreement, boosting collaboration between ASEAN and regions like the United States. Pichai also invited Google to help develop a super app for the Ministry of Commerce to improve public project efficiency, to which Google expressed enthusiasm. The minister met with representatives from Nasdaq, FedEx, PepsiCo, IBM, Intel, Apple, and Boeing as part of his engagements with the US Chamber of Commerce and the US-ASEAN Business Council. In 2024, the US was Thailand’s second-largest trading partner, with trade exceeding US$74.4 billion (about 2.7 trillion baht). The US is Thailand’s top export market, contributing US$54.9 billion (about 2 trillion baht) with imports from the US totaling US$19.5 billion (around 700 billion baht), reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-11

Thailand Tops LGBTQ Tourism; Spending Soars by 38% Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English Thailand is rapidly gaining recognition as a top LGBTQ travel hotspot. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), spending among LGBTQ tourists has surged by 38%, reaching over 73,000 baht per trip. This rise is also accompanied by a 19.9% increase in first-time LGBTQ visitors, indicating Thailand's growing appeal. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351497-thailand-tops-lgbtq-tourism-spending-soars-by-38/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English Thailand is rapidly gaining recognition as a top LGBTQ travel hotspot. According to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), spending among LGBTQ tourists has surged by 38%, reaching over 73,000 baht per trip. This rise is also accompanied by a 19.9% increase in first-time LGBTQ visitors, indicating Thailand's growing appeal. The nation recently passed the Marriage Equality Act, prompting more inquiries from LGBTQ travelers about Thailand's readiness as a leading LGBTQ-friendly destination. TAT’s Deputy Governor, Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, noted that European travelers often ask about dedicated LGBTQ-friendly services, with many seeking inclusive spaces and like-minded communities. Responding to these inquiries, TAT emphasized that Thailand's hospitality industry warmly welcomes LGBTQ tourists, same-sex couples, and honeymooners with premium and inclusive experiences. A 2024 survey noted that romantic tourists, including LGBTQ visitors, spent 73,535 baht per trip—up 37.72% from 2023. Daily spending rose 42.39%, averaging 6,722 baht per person. The data revealed a preference for premium hotels and exclusive travel experiences among LGBTQ tourists, marking them as a lucrative market segment. These travelers typically stay around 10.94 nights, with 97.32% opting for hotels or resorts. An impressive 68.97% of LGBTQ visitors were first-timers, underscoring Thailand's allure as an LGBTQ-friendly destination. Among favored romantic spots, Bangkok remained the leader at 62.5%, while Phuket saw a significant rise to 47.77%. Krabi also experienced a notable jump of 28.57%. Globally, the LGBTQ travel market contributes over US$200 billion annually. The United States leads with US$63.1 billion in spending, followed by Brazil at US$26.8 billion. As Thailand continues to champion LGBTQ-friendly tourism, its status as a must-visit destination is set to expand further. -- 2025-02-11

Bolt Driver Warns of Airport Fare Scams by Foreign Tourists File photo for reference only A Bolt ride-share driver in Thailand is raising alarm after an Indian couple tricked him into giving them a free ride to Phuket International Airport. Using social media, he hopes to warn other drivers of scam risks posed by certain foreign tourists. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351496-bolt-driver-warns-of-airport-fare-scams-by-foreign-tourists/

File photo for reference only A Bolt ride-share driver in Thailand is raising alarm after an Indian couple tricked him into giving them a free ride to Phuket International Airport. Using social media, he hopes to warn other drivers of scam risks posed by certain foreign tourists. The incident recently unfolded in the well-known Patong area. The couple booked a ride to the airport, with the app showing a fare of 800 baht. Upon reaching the destination, they claimed to have paid via credit card attached to their profile, though the app required cash payment. Without cash, the pair promised to use an ATM inside the airport. The driver, trying to remain helpful, let them take their luggage inside. Unfortunately, the couple never returned. The driver, realizing their intentions too late, rushed inside for assistance. Despite reviewing CCTV footage, it was too late; they had already boarded a flight home. The driver warned fellow drivers to remain vigilant, especially with tourists opting for cash payments. He advised against releasing passengers' belongings before payment is secured, commenting on the rise of "low-quality tourists." Locals in Phuket are growing increasingly frustrated with what they see as a wave of problematic foreign visitors. They suggest these issues have spiked since post-pandemic visa-free entry policies. Many residents believe tourists, particularly Russian and French nationals, are moving to Thailand to run illegal businesses rather than vacationing. Locals are now calling for the end of the visa-free scheme or stricter entry screening to curb these challenges. They also urged stronger law enforcement to prevent foreigners from side-stepping legal penalties, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-11

Thai Soldier's Tragic Death Sparks Investigation in Bangkok Park Photo via Facebook/ ตะละแม่บุษบง ณ.ศรีธนญชัยแลนด์ Last night in Bangkok's busy Chatuchak district, a shocking incident unfolded as a Thai soldier was found dead in Wachirabenchathat Park, commonly known as Rot Fai Park. The man reportedly took his life in a public volleyball court, sending shockwaves through the local community and prompting an urgent police investigation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351494-thai-soldiers-tragic-death-sparks-investigation-in-bangkok-park/

Photo via Facebook/ ตะละแม่บุษบง ณ.ศรีธนญชัยแลนด์ Last night in Bangkok's busy Chatuchak district, a shocking incident unfolded as a Thai soldier was found dead in Wachirabenchathat Park, commonly known as Rot Fai Park. The man reportedly took his life in a public volleyball court, sending shockwaves through the local community and prompting an urgent police investigation. Events transpired around 8 PM when a group of individuals playing volleyball were interrupted by the sound of a gunshot. Alarmed, they fled for safety. Upon returning, they discovered a man, later identified as 32-year-old Sergeant Major Third Class Sumate Phitphunphatsorn, slumped in the grandstand with a fatal gunshot wound to his right temple. A bloodied 9mm pistol lay nearby. Local law enforcement from Bang Sue Police Station, alongside rescue teams, swiftly arrived at the scene to assess the situation. Initial reports suggest that Sumate had been struggling with depression, and a potential death note appeared on his social media prior to the incident. There is also mention of possible workplace tensions with a colleague, though specifics on these issues remain undisclosed. Nat, a volleyball player present at the time, described hearing the gunshot and instinctively fleeing with others, unaware of Sumate's presence until safely returning. Nat noted he had never seen Sumate at the park before and did not recognise him as part of the regular volleyball scene. As details continue to emerge, the local authorities are working diligently to confirm the exact nature of Sumate's death. At present, while it appears to be a tragic suicide, police are actively exploring all avenues, including potential foul play. This heart-breaking event underscores the pressing need for understanding and addressing mental health issues within the military community and beyond, reported The Thaiger. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai), or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress, or depression. Seek help. -- 2025-02-11

Surin Tragedy: Man with Prosthetic Leg Fatally Attacked Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a heart-wrenching incident yesterday, a 52-year-old man with a disability was killed following an altercation in Surin province, Thailand. The tragic event unfolded in the afternoon when police were called to an assault scene near the village hall in Mueang, Sangkhla district. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351493-surin-tragedy-man-with-prosthetic-leg-fatally-attacked/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a heart-wrenching incident yesterday, a 52-year-old man with a disability was killed following an altercation in Surin province, Thailand. The tragic event unfolded in the afternoon when police were called to an assault scene near the village hall in Mueang, Sangkhla district. Arriving at the scene, officers discovered An, a local resident who used a prosthetic leg, lying lifeless beside a wooden platform, surrounded by grief-stricken relatives. Witnesses claimed that An was attacked by 47-year-old Sompong during a social gathering for dismantling tents after a local event. Sompong admitted during police questioning that he argued with An while they were having drinks together. The confrontation escalated when Sompong allegedly kicked An in the neck, causing him to fall and fatally hit his head on a tree stump. Consequently, Sompong has been charged with assault leading to death. Speaking through tears, An's sister expressed her devastation and disbelief at the violent outcome, describing her brother's vulnerability due to his disability. She recounted how An, who lived with another sibling, was disabled from an accident years ago and demanded justice, urging police to take appropriate action. The close-knit community now grapples with the shock and loss of a well-known resident, as proceedings in the case move forward, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-11

Elderly Man Collapses During Massage in Udon Thani File photo for reference only In Ban Dung district, Udon Thani, a 70-year-old man suffered a severe shock and fainted during a massage session beneath a tamarind tree. The incident took place on February 10 at Suan Lak, near the Phu Sri Sutho Shrine. Witnesses observed the man, a resident of Non Simma village, suddenly stiffen and collapse while receiving a massage. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351492-elderly-man-collapses-during-massage-in-udon-thani/

File photo for reference only In Ban Dung district, Udon Thani, a 70-year-old man suffered a severe shock and fainted during a massage session beneath a tamarind tree. The incident took place on February 10 at Suan Lak, near the Phu Sri Sutho Shrine. Witnesses observed the man, a resident of Non Simma village, suddenly stiffen and collapse while receiving a massage. Locals attempted to provide first aid before emergency responders transported him to Somdej Phra Yupparat Ban Dung Hospital, where he remains under medical care. The masseuse, Daeng, also 70, expressed her bewilderment, noting this was the first time such an incident had occurred in her years of practice. She clarified that the massage was routine, focusing on the neck, shoulders, and back. The man had previously visited Daeng for massages without issues. However, during this third session, he unexpectedly lost consciousness. Daeng, visibly shaken, left immediately after the episode. Pornthaksin Yenwatthana, a nearby durian vendor, was the first to notice the man fainting. She and her husband provided assistance after hearing cries for help, finding him unconscious and pale. Despite his known health conditions, including diabetes and hypertension, it is unclear if these contributed to the episode. The man had come with his family from Non Simma village specifically for the massage. Daeng often offers her therapeutic services at the Suan Lak market area using a mat and bag, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-11

Swift Action Saves Homes from Raging Pattaya Forest Fire Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News On Sunday, February 9, a forest fire near Pattaya alarmed residents as it threatened nearby homes. At 3:06 PM, the Nong Prue Municipality’s Disaster Prevention and Mitigation team joined forces with the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Centre to tackle the blaze reported at Soi Boon Samphan 14. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351490-swift-action-saves-homes-from-raging-pattaya-forest-fire/

Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News On Sunday, February 9, a forest fire near Pattaya alarmed residents as it threatened nearby homes. At 3:06 PM, the Nong Prue Municipality’s Disaster Prevention and Mitigation team joined forces with the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Centre to tackle the blaze reported at Soi Boon Samphan 14. Emergency services acted swiftly, deploying several fire trucks that effectively contained the spreading fire, preventing it from reaching residential areas. While the fire was eventually controlled, lingering smoke led to a temporary evacuation of residents for safety. Authorities are currently investigating the fire's origin, with plans to assess its impact on PM 2.5 pollution levels in Pattaya, responding to local complaints, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-11

Pattaya Prepares for Silent Night: Alcohol Ban Hits Tourists Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Pattaya's vibrant nightlife is about to take an unexpected pause. To honor Makha Bucha Day, a significant Buddhist holiday, officials have imposed a strict alcohol ban. From 12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. on February 12, all businesses, including shops, pubs, and bars, are barred from selling alcohol. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351488-pattaya-prepares-for-silent-night-alcohol-ban-hits-tourists/