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Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A heavily intoxicated foreign man sparked alarm after collapsing unconscious outside Pattaya Police Station, leaving bystanders and officers scrambling to assist. The unnamed tourist was found lying in the parking area on Sunday night, February 2, blocking visitors from retrieving their vehicles. Police and rescue workers examined him and found no signs of assault, determining that his extreme alcohol consumption had likely caused him to pass out. His equally intoxicated girlfriend pleaded with officers to take him to the hospital, fearing he might die. However, officers reassured her that he was simply drunk and not in any life-threatening condition. Siwapol, a 45 year old Bolt driver, revealed that he had picked up the couple from Soi 6 on Beach Road. The man had completely passed out inside the car, leaving the driver unsure of what to do. In an attempt to seek help, he drove them to Pattaya Police Station. Upon arrival, the woman exited the car first, but as soon as the man followed, he collapsed face-first onto the ground. The driver immediately alerted the police, who assisted in getting the man safely home once he regained consciousness, reported The Pattaya News. With Pattaya’s nightlife in full swing, incidents like these serve as a stark reminder of the dangers of excessive drinking—but for this tourist, it was just another wild night in Thailand’s party capital. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-04

Pregnant Thai woman accuses husband of domestic violence By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 32 year old woman accused her new husband of domestic violence in front of her three year old son. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350804-pregnant-thai-woman-accuses-husband-of-domestic-violence/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee A 32 year old woman accused her new husband of domestic violence in front of her three year old son. The incident left her unconscious with a broken jaw and nose. The victim, A, who is three months pregnant with her husband, Sommai’s child, expressed a desire to leave the relationship but fears for her safety due to Sommai’s threats to harm her and her family. She claims Sommai has a high sexual appetite, demanding intercourse at least three times daily and often resorting to biting, choking, or pulling her hair if she refuses. She also reported that Sommai’s previous wife left him, possibly due to similar issues. Today, February 4, Sommai reached out to clarify the situation, leading reporters to visit his residence in Bang Nam Priao district, Chachoengsao province. Sommai admitted to having frequent sexual relations with A, considering it normal in a family setting. He asserted that A consented every time they engaged in intercourse. Sommai confessed to injuring A due to personal pressures and feeling unaccepted by A’s family. Sommai explained that he had tried several times to communicate and resolve issues but to no avail. On the day of the incident, he had consumed several bottles of beer before visiting A’s home in Mueang Chachoengsao district. The violence ensued when they failed to reach an understanding and A attempted to walk away, causing Sommai to react impulsively. After the incident, Sommai sent his sister to check on A’s condition and provide her with money for sustenance. He professed his love for A, expressing a desire for her to live with him and enjoy a better life. Sommai claimed to be the family’s breadwinner, as A is unemployed and he has supported her throughout. He refuted allegations of threatening violence if they separated, citing his age and responsibilities as reasons not to take such risks. Sommai acknowledged that if A decides to pursue legal action, he is prepared to face the consequences according to the law, reported KhaoSod. He expressed willingness to cover her medical expenses, though he admitted he needs to gather funds first, as his current finances have been spent on supporting A. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-04

Lufthansa extends A380 service to Bangkok By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Grown-up Travel Company Lufthansa is giving travellers to Thailand an upgrade, extending its Airbus A380 service on the Munich-Bangkok route due to surging demand during Songkran, Thailand’s biggest festival. Originally set for a limited run, the airline has now confirmed the superjumbo will continue flying until April 25, offering passengers a spacious, top-tier experience. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350803-lufthansa-extends-a380-service-to-bangkok/

Photo courtesy of The Grown-up Travel Company By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Lufthansa is giving travellers to Thailand an upgrade, extending its Airbus A380 service on the Munich-Bangkok route due to surging demand during Songkran, Thailand’s biggest festival. Originally set for a limited run, the airline has now confirmed the superjumbo will continue flying until April 25, offering passengers a spacious, top-tier experience. The decision cements Lufthansa’s commitment to premium long-haul service, catering to the growing number of business and leisure travellers. With Songkran drawing millions of visitors every year, the German carrier saw an opportunity to meet the high seasonal demand by keeping its flagship double-decker aircraft on the route for an extended period. “The A380 offers unparalleled comfort and capacity and we are confident that our passengers will appreciate the extra space and top-tier service as they travel during the busy Thai New Year period,” said Felipe Bonifatti, Lufthansa’s Vice President of Asia Pacific & Joint Ventures East. Lufthansa has operated flights to Thailand for 65 years, strengthening ties between the two nations. Currently, the airline runs up to 31 weekly flights between Thailand and Germany, ensuring seamless connectivity, reported Aviation A2Z. The extension of the A380 service signals not only Lufthansa’s confidence in Thailand’s booming tourism sector but also the enduring appeal of the world’s largest passenger aircraft. Lufthansa and Thai Airways International are strengthening their long-standing partnership with an expanded codeshare agreement, enhancing connectivity between Europe and Southeast Asia. From this month, flights operated by Thai Airways from Bangkok to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Manila will now carry a Lufthansa flight number, offering travellers greater flexibility and seamless connections across the region. This development builds on the partnership between the two Star Alliance founding members, which dates back to 1997. It also follows the approval by the US Department of Transportation last year, allowing Lufthansa to carry Thai Airways’ TG code on its Germany-US routes. By expanding its presence in Southeast Asia, Lufthansa aims to capitalise on the region’s rapidly growing business and leisure travel markets, providing European travellers with easier access to some of Asia’s most dynamic destinations. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-04

British tourist’s bribery tale jailed as ‘untrue’ by Pattaya police chief By Bob Scott Picture of Andrew Hopkins courtesy of The Nation A British tourist’s claims of bribing his way out of a Pattaya jail have been denounced as “largely untrue” by a Pattaya police chief. However, in a bid for transparency, the Pattaya police chief promises a thorough review of the evidence. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350801-british-tourist’s-bribery-tale-jailed-as-‘untrue’-by-pattaya-police-chief/

Picture of Andrew Hopkins courtesy of The Nation By Bob Scott A British tourist’s claims of bribing his way out of a Pattaya jail have been denounced as “largely untrue” by a Pattaya police chief. However, in a bid for transparency, the Pattaya police chief promises a thorough review of the evidence. Police Colonel Nawin Theerawit, head of the Pattaya Police Station in Chon Buri province, issued a strong denial yesterday, February 3, in response to foreign media reports. A controversial story had surfaced, alleging that hapless Brit Andrew Hopkins was forced to shell out 15,000 baht to secure his release from a Thai cell. Hopkins’s ordeal was told in vivid detail by the British tabloid Daily Mail. The newspaper reported that the 55 year old was staying at an Airbnb in Pattaya when a late-night stroll allegedly went awry. In a comedy of errors, he accidentally knocked over an entrance sign en route, rousing the ire of two local security guards who immediately descended upon him, bellowing in Thai. Hopkins claimed that it wasn’t long before the local police arrived, swiftly bundling him into the back of a pick-up truck and carting him to a cell, where he languished for 36 hours amidst squalor: a picture painted with photos showing grime and overcrowding. Seizing the narrative, Hopkins alleged that his release came only after an Italian man informed him of the need to pay 15,000 baht in cash. He described being frog marched to an ATM before his freedom was seemingly bought once two senior officers pocketed the cash. Undeterred, Pol. Col. Nawin set the record straight. The kerfuffle allegedly started on November 22 of last year, when Hopkins, under the influence, reportedly trashed a vehicle barrier. Officers stepped in to calm him down, imposing a mere 100 baht fine before releasing him. But the drama didn’t end there. Pol. Col. Nawin recounted how Hopkins returned to his digs only to be refused entry due to his penchant for loud, boozy antics, leading to further disturbances and yet another arrest. Emphasising procedural integrity, Pol. Col. Nawin insisted Hopkins was subjected to due process, with all his belongings duly returned and documented through photographs. He staunchly defended the state of the cells, asserting daily cleaning and round-the-clock CCTV surveillance, reported The Nation. Nevertheless, the incident now undergoes further scrutiny to ensure all concerned parties are satisfied. As the world watches, Pattaya’s reputation hangs in the balance, poised between reputational ruin and redemption. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-04

Drunk French tourist crashes into Patong cop, arrested on the spot By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Patong Police via The Phuket News A drunk French tourist crashed his motorcycle into a traffic police officer in Patong early this morning, leaving both men injured and prompting an immediate arrest. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350800-drunk-french-tourist-crashes-into-patong-cop-arrested-on-the-spot/

Photo courtesy of Patong Police via The Phuket News By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A drunk French tourist crashed his motorcycle into a traffic police officer in Patong early this morning, leaving both men injured and prompting an immediate arrest. The incident occurred at 7.14am, today, February 4, on Phra Metta Road, in front of the Bangkok Bank branch. Patong police were alerted and rushed to the scene, where they found two damaged motorcycles and the injured officer, Police Sergeant Major Phradon Sawangsaengsai, who was quickly transported to Patong Hospital for treatment. The other rider, identified as Mohammed Jeafar, a French national, had been riding a black Honda ADV 160 registered in Phuket. He also sustained injuries but was taken into custody after officers suspected alcohol consumption. Pol. Sgt. Maj. Phradon stated that he was patrolling the area towards Pearl Roundabout when Jeafar, travelling in the opposite direction, veered into his lane and crashed into him. Investigators documented the scene with photographs before arresting Jeafar and taking him to Patong Police Station. A breathalyser test confirmed an alcohol level of 0.58, well over the legal limit, reported The Phuket News. Jeafar now faces legal action, with the exact charges yet to be confirmed. The case has reignited concerns over reckless tourist behaviour on Phuket’s roads, with police urging stricter enforcement of drink-driving laws to prevent further incidents. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-04

Foreign couple exposed for repeated taxi fare scams in Phuket By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A foreign couple in Phuket allegedly attempted to avoid paying a taxi fare yesterday, February 3, but ultimately paid after the driver threatened them with legal action. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350799-foreign-couple-exposed-for-repeated-taxi-fare-scams-in-phuket/

Photo via Facebook/Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ By Petch Petpailin A foreign couple in Phuket allegedly attempted to avoid paying a taxi fare yesterday, February 3, but ultimately paid after the driver threatened them with legal action. The female Thai taxi driver took to social media to warn other drivers to be cautious of the foreign couple. The Phuket Times also shared her story to alert taxi drivers working mainly in tourist areas. The taxi driver explained that the total fare was 150 baht but the foreign couple paid her 100 baht, prompting her to demand the remaining 50 baht. The foreigners claimed they only had 100 baht and pleaded with the driver to take pity on them and give them a discount. However, the taxi driver refused and asked to see the couple’s wallets. She stated that their wallets were packed with 100-baht and 1,000-baht banknotes. They had more than enough to pay the fare but lied to her. After that, the couple changed their story, claiming they had given the driver a 1,000-baht banknote instead of a 100-baht bill. The driver, confident in her memory, showed them the cash she had received, proving she had not been given a 1,000-baht note. According to the taxi driver, she and the foreign couple argued for some time until she threatened to call the police, at which point the couple paid the rest of the fare. More victims surface The driver expressed her disbelief at having to argue with passengers over a mere 50 baht but insisted she wanted to defend her rights. Based on comments from netizens, this female taxi driver was not the first victim of this foreign couple. A Thai man shared that the couple booked a taxi to Chalong Pier a few days earlier and refused to pay the fare. They even laughed at the taxi driver before running away. Another Thai woman recounted a similar incident in which the couple paid her service fee with a 500-baht banknote but later claimed they had given her a 1,000-baht bill and demanded their change. She had to call the police to resolve the dispute. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-04

Turkish man caught packing more than just bags at Phuket Airport By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A Turkish man was detained at Phuket International Airport after airport security uncovered ammunition hidden in his luggage. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350798-turkish-man-caught-packing-more-than-just-bags-at-phuket-airport/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bob Scott A Turkish man was detained at Phuket International Airport after airport security uncovered ammunition hidden in his luggage. The man, Isa Ates, found himself at the centre of a dramatic scene, insisting he had no idea how the bullets ended up in his suitcase. The incident unfolded yesterday, February 3, when eagle-eyed airport officials, conducting a routine security check, spotted suspicious items on an X-ray scan of a bag destined for Malaysia Airlines flight MH787 to Kuala Lumpur. The initial alert was raised at Phuket’s bustling international terminal, prompting swift action from the police. Police Lieutenant Colonel Kornphumiphot Pongsapaiboon from the Sakhu Police Station was immediately notified of the threat. He, along with Police Major Chamnarn Intanon, rushed to the scene for a closer inspection of the flagged luggage. Inside the suitcase, officers uncovered 5.56 calibre M193 bullets cleverly tucked away within a green jacket. The luggage was registered to none other than the 29 year old Turkish man, who freely admitted that the suitcase and jacket were indeed his. However, he staunchly denied any connection to the concealed ammunition, claiming he was as surprised as the officers to find such contraband in his belongings. Despite Ates’ protests of innocence, the matter was considered too serious to overlook. The police had no choice but to charge him with possession of ammunition without a proper licence, a permit that, in Thailand, is not something one can easily obtain over the counter. Ates was reminded of his legal rights before both he and the incriminating items were taken to the Sakhu police station to face further legal proceedings. With the police now deep into their investigation, it remains to be seen how Ates will explain the illicit bullets weaving their way into his travel plans. As Phuket Airport incident continues to shake travellers and officials alike, one thing is clear: this is a story that won’t be leaving the runway anytime soon. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-04

Smoke out: Phuket cracks down on polluters as air crisis worsens By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Phuket News Phuket is turning up the heat on environmental offenders with a major new campaign aimed at tackling the island’s escalating air pollution crisis. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350727-smoke-out-phuket-cracks-down-on-polluters-as-air-crisis-worsens/

Picture courtesy of Phuket News By Bob Scott Phuket is turning up the heat on environmental offenders with a major new campaign aimed at tackling the island’s escalating air pollution crisis. In a bold bid to curb forest fires, haze, and PM2.5 dust pollution, the island’s officials have launched a public awareness drive, kicking off with a grand ceremony at the Phuket Provincial Hall, today, February 3, presided over by Vice Governor Adul Chuthong. Leading the charge is the Phuket Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office (DDPM Phuket), which has declared war on dangerous dust particles notorious for wreaking havoc during the dry season. Sopon Thongsai, the Chief of DDPM Phuket and secretary of the Phuket Provincial Command Centre on PM2.5 Pollution, is rallying the local community to join forces in the battle against air pollution. With the catchy slogan Stop Burning, Stop Dust, For You, For Us, the initiative is calling all hands on deck, local authorities, volunteers, and residents alike, to clamp down on dust emissions from open burning, industrial activities, and construction projects. The mission is clear: stop the burn, and stop the dust. As part of the effort, residents have been urged to abandon open burning and keep an eye on air quality updates through official channels. This comes hot on the heels of an alarming Air Pollution Real-time Air Quality Index (AQI) report, which recorded a PM2.5 level of 124 in the south of Phuket Town yesterday. The reading landed the area in the ominous Orange Zone, tagged as “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.” Health advisories have been issued, warning sensitive people, including children and asthma sufferers, to limit their outdoor activities, even if the general public is given a milder pass. The timing of the campaign’s launch is no accident. It aligns with a provincial ban on agricultural burning, declared on January 24 by Vice Governor Adul, in lockstep with a national directive by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul. Under this crackling crackdown, all burning during the dry season is strictly off-limits unless you’ve got an explicit green light from local bigwigs. The stakes are high: violators in national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, or forest reserves could face hefty repercussions under the Forestry Act. Penalties range from long jail sentences of four to 20 years and eye-watering fines up to 5 million baht. Moreover, the Criminal Code’s Section 220 raises the alarm further: causing a fire that jeopardises public safety or property could trigger an additional seven-year prison sentence and fines up to 40,000 baht. Safer environment Local officials, from district chiefs to village headmen, have been tasked with ensuring the ban is upheld and creating firebreaks to halt any runaway blazes. And if a fire manages to break free? Immediate action is required. Islanders are urged to snuff out flames on sight, or if things get too hot to handle, reach out to local officials or dial the Phuket Forest Fire Control Station’s hotline at 1362 for rapid assistance, reported Phuket News. Phuket’s latest anti-pollution push serves as a blazing reminder that the fight for a cleaner, safer environment is one where everyone must lend a helping hand. With vigilance and cooperation, the island aims to douse flames of ignorance and negligence to secure a breath of fresh air for all. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-03

Back in the driver’s seat: Rewat plans to steer Phuket forward By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of The Phuket Express Fresh off his re-election victory, Rewat Areerob is revving up to tackle the challenges facing Phuket as the newly-affirmed president of the Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation (PPAO). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350726-back-in-the-driver’s-seat-rewat-plans-to-steer-phuket-forward/

Picture courtesy of The Phuket Express By Bob Scott Fresh off his re-election victory, Rewat Areerob is revving up to tackle the challenges facing Phuket as the newly-affirmed president of the Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation (PPAO). Triumphing with a commanding 86,616 votes, Rewat of the Phuket Yat Dai Party left his nearest rival, Lersak Leenanitikul of the Prachachon Party, trailing in the dust with 44,602 votes. Not content with just the presidency, the Phuket Yat Dai Party also seized 21 out of the 24 available seats on the PPAO Council, solidifying their mandate to power through change. Speaking from the Royal Phuket City Hotel in Phuket, Rewat didn’t mince words. With an agenda clearer than a post-monsoon sky, he vowed to tackle the island’s worsening traffic congestion, now rivaling the infamous gridlocks of Bangkok. “We [Phuket Yat Dai] will use every minute from now on to take care of people, fix the problems and create new opportunities for our hometown of Phuket.” Acknowledging the public’s trust in his leadership, Rewat expressed gratitude. “There are so many problems. Today, I have received an opportunity from the people.” With determination fuelled by the support of his constituents, he emphasised the single-minded focus on alleviating traffic woes. “I know that the people of Phuket are suffering from traffic problems, and they are worsening by the day. Solving traffic problems must come first.” However, traffic isn’t the only concern in Rewat’s crosshairs. He is committed to engaging with the community and amplifying every voice. “I will continue to listen to every voice from everyone, no matter how small.” Rewat also promised that inclusivity and responsiveness remain at the heart of his governance. Waste management also features prominently on his priority list, alongside economic development aimed at invigorating Phuket’s grassroots. “I will combine all my strengths to solve both traffic and garbage problems for the people of Phuket. The grassroots economy from the community of our brothers and sisters will move and improve.” With Rewat back in the driver’s seat, Phuket stands at the crossroads of progress and potential. If his promises hold true, the road ahead could very well lead to transformative solutions and newfound prosperity for the island’s residents. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-03

Debt-ridden Thai man snatches bag from Japanese tourist in Chiang Mai By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ กูรูเชียงใหม่ เรื่องเชียงใหม่กูรู้ A Thai man snatched a bag off a Japanese woman in the northern province of Chiang Mai on Friday claiming after the arrest that he had to steal to pay off his debts. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350725-debt-ridden-thai-man-snatches-bag-from-japanese-tourist-in-chiang-mai/

Photo via Facebook/ กูรูเชียงใหม่ เรื่องเชียงใหม่กูรู้ By Petch Petpailin A Thai man snatched a bag off a Japanese woman in the northern province of Chiang Mai on Friday claiming after the arrest that he had to steal to pay off his debts. The Japanese victim, 63 year old Reiko, filed a complaint with Mueang Chiang Mai Police Station after losing her bag in the snatching which occurred at about 6.30pm on Friday, January 31. The theft took place on the side of Rachamanka Road in the city centre of Chiang Mai. The bag contained a mobile phone, 15,000 baht in cash, three credit cards, and a key to Reiko’s hotel room. Police reviewed security cameras along the road and nearby area and spotted the thief escaping from the scene on a motorcycle. He was last seen at the back of Chai Sri Phum Temple, so police suspected him of living in the area. Officers launched a search for the thief until finding the motorcycle and a helmet with the same model and colour parked at the accommodation near the temple. Police then raided the house, and the suspect, 35 year old Wongtawan, eventually admitted to the crime. Wongtawan explained that he was released from prison two years ago and began working at a restaurant in the area. However, the restaurant was affected by the heavy flood last year, causing both him and the restaurant owner to encounter financial difficulties. Wongtawan said his employer could not pay his salary, forcing him to borrow money from local loan sharks. He was unable to earn enough to pay off debt and to cover the daily expenses, so he committed the snatch. Wongtawan had been arrested seven times before for the thefts of valuables and motorcycles in various areas across Chiang Mai. In this case, he faces imprisonment of up to five years and a fine of up to 100,000 baht according to Section 336 of the Criminal Law: stealing another person’s valuables by snatching and using a motorcycle to facilitate the crime. Channel 7 reported that the Japanese woman yesterday, February 2, brought a bouquet to the police station to thank Thai officers for their swipe operation. She also revealed to the police that she loved Thailand and visited the country frequently. Her last trip before Chiang Mai had just occurred in November last year. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-03

Teen Attacked by Teenagers After Accidental Expletive in Bangkok File photo for reference only An altercation in Bangkok's Nong Khang Phlu district today resulted in an 18-year-old man sustaining minor injuries. The incident unfolded near the entrance of Soi Phetkasem 108 when the victim tripped outside a tea shop and inadvertently uttered an expletive. A group of four teenagers took offence and launched an assault on him. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350724-teen-attacked-by-teenagers-after-accidental-expletive-in-bangkok/

File photo for reference only An altercation in Bangkok's Nong Khang Phlu district today resulted in an 18-year-old man sustaining minor injuries. The incident unfolded near the entrance of Soi Phetkasem 108 when the victim tripped outside a tea shop and inadvertently uttered an expletive. A group of four teenagers took offence and launched an assault on him. Witnesses reported seeing one of the attackers with a firearm tucked in his waistband, escalating concerns about the severity of the confrontation. Despite the victim's attempts to apologise for the misunderstanding, the group continued their assault before fleeing on a motorcycle towards Phetkasem Road. The injured young man was promptly treated at Ratchaphiphat Hospital, and his family has been informed of the incident. Police are now leveraging CCTV footage and analysing motorcycle registrations to identify the assailants, who are believed to be under 18. Police Colonel Thachaphon Nimmano of the Nong Khang Phlu Police Station is leading the investigation, aiming to gather further evidence for potential legal proceedings. The community hopes for a swift resolution to this unsettling episode. -- 2025-02-03

Ex-Prosecutor Arrested in Bangkok for 22-Year-Old Bribery Case File photo for reference only In a dramatic turn of events, former prosecutor Kongsiri, 67, was captured by the Crime Suppression Division yesterday. He was found hiding in his home in Bangkok's Bang Khun Non district after failing to appear for a bribery verdict. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350723-ex-prosecutor-arrested-in-bangkok-for-22-year-old-bribery-case/

File photo for reference only In a dramatic turn of events, former prosecutor Kongsiri, 67, was captured by the Crime Suppression Division yesterday. He was found hiding in his home in Bangkok's Bang Khun Non district after failing to appear for a bribery verdict. Kongsiri, ex-Yasothon province prosecutor, allegedly accepted a bribe of 100,000 baht (about US$2,930) back in 2001. He was accused of taking the money to sway the outcome of a drug case. An arrest warrant was issued by the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Region 3 on December 26, 2023, for misusing his judicial power. As a provincial prosecutor, Kongsiri was in charge of reviewing cases and influencing prosecution decisions based on investigation reports. Instead, he allegedly misused his position by accepting a bribe from a drug suspect's family to alter the case outcome. After being charged, Kongsiri initially followed legal procedures. However, he later absconded, knowing he faced a potential three-year, four-month jail sentence from the Supreme Court. Upon discovering his whereabouts in Bangkok, officials promptly arrested him. Kongsiri has admitted to the charges during interrogation and is now in custody, pending further legal proceedings by the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Region 3. -- 2025-02-03

Thai Border Bust: Scam Gear Seized from Call Center Network File photo for reference only Authorities in Thailand's Tak province have made a significant dent in a cross-border call center scam operation. On February 1, security officials captured a man and seized a large haul of electronic equipment vital to the scheme. In Mae Ramat district, near the Thai-Myanmar border, a joint task force including soldiers, border patrol police, and administrative officers conducted a targeted operation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350722-thai-border-bust-scam-gear-seized-from-call-center-network/

File photo for reference only Authorities in Thailand's Tak province have made a significant dent in a cross-border call center scam operation. On February 1, security officials captured a man and seized a large haul of electronic equipment vital to the scheme. In Mae Ramat district, near the Thai-Myanmar border, a joint task force including soldiers, border patrol police, and administrative officers conducted a targeted operation. During their operation, the team stopped a Toyota pickup truck packed with scam-related tech. Inside, they found 1,251 mobile phones, 274 SIM cards, and 19 computers. The driver, identified only as 45-year-old Tid, confessed to being paid 5,000 baht (US$150) to move the equipment. He was to pick up the items near the Moei River and send them via parcel service to a woman named Pawalee in Sa Kaeo, bordering Cambodia. Colonel Natthakorn Ruantip, commanding officer of the Ratchamanu Task Force, stated the equipment likely belonged to a call center network in Myawaddy, Myanmar. The network planned to shift operations to Cambodia, across from Thailand's Sa Kaeo province. Police continue to search for more members of the scam network. Tid was taken to Mae Ramat police station for further questioning as the investigation deepens. -- 2025-02-03