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Hot sting: Thai child scalded by soup at Chon Buri restaurant By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A restaurant owner pledged to take responsibility and provide compensation after a five year old girl was scalded by hot soup at a popular eatery in Chon Buri. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350455-hot-sting-thai-child-scalded-by-soup-at-chon-buri-restaurant/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A restaurant owner pledged to take responsibility and provide compensation after a five year old girl was scalded by hot soup at a popular eatery in Chon Buri. The incident took place yesterday, January 30 at the Khrua Pla Too Thit Auan restaurant, located on Hat Wonnapha Beach, Mueang district, Chon Buri. The child’s mother posted about the incident online, expressing dissatisfaction over the lack of immediate apology or compensation from the restaurant. Rapeephan Rorung, the 27 year old owner of the restaurant, presented CCTV footage to reporters to demonstrate her good faith. The video showed the family of the young girl entering the restaurant and sitting in a wooden booth. As they ordered, two male staff members were shown serving food. Unfortunately, one of the staff accidentally spilled hot soup on the child’s arm, causing her to cry out in pain. Her father immediately took her to the restroom to wash the burn, and the owner later approached to apologise. Rapeephan explained that the family had visited the restaurant the previous day and that the staff member had spilled the soup on the girl’s arm and body, leaving red marks. However, the staff member only reported that soup had been spilled, without mentioning it involved a customer. It wasn’t until the bill was requested that Rapeephan became aware of the full incident, as the staff had failed to communicate initially. She expressed regret at not responding sooner, attributing it to the noise from the extractor fan in the closed room she was in, which muffled the child’s cries. Rapeephan stated she had already commented on the mother’s post to apologise sincerely. She assured the restaurant is willing to cover the medical expenses and offer emotional support for the child, who is only five years old. The owner expressed sympathy towards the child’s injuries and reiterated the restaurant’s commitment to apologise and compensate the family, reported KhaoSod. Additionally, the staff involved has been reassigned for training to improve their service skills and order-taking abilities, to prevent any recurrence of such incidents. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

Phumtham dismisses refugee employment proposal as impractical By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of ประชาไท Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai expressed disapproval of Fair Party list MP Kannavee Suebsang‘s proposal to offer employment to refugees. Phumtham considers it impractical. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350452-phumtham-dismisses-refugee-employment-proposal-as-impractical/

Photo courtesy of ประชาไท By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai expressed disapproval of Fair Party list MP Kannavee Suebsang‘s proposal to offer employment to refugees. Phumtham considers it impractical. Phumtham addressed concerns over the United States’ decision to reduce funding for hospitals in nine refugee camps along the Thailand-Myanmar border. He noted that the Thai government is also impacted by this decision, as it has been providing substantial assistance to refugees. The responsibility for addressing this issue primarily lies with the International Rescue Committee and the United Nations. According to Phumtham, the UN plans to engage in discussions with US President Donald Trump about the situation within the next three months. Meanwhile, the Thai government will continue to offer support within its means. Phumtham acknowledged that Kannavee’s proposal to allow refugees to work legally in Thailand was well-meaning but questioned its feasibility. He suggested implementing such a policy could impose a significant burden on Thai citizens and questioned whether the public was ready to shoulder this responsibility. On Wednesday, in the House of Representatives, Kannavee raised concerns about the impact of President Trump’s Trump 2.0 policy changes on diversity, equality, and integration. He pointed out that the policy shift resulted in funding cuts for international aid organisations supporting the nine refugee camps in Thailand, affecting access to medical care, reported Bangkok Post. Kannavee warned that further reductions in assistance could force over 80,000 Myanmar refugees in these camps to leave, which would affect Thai citizens as well. He proposed that the government allow refugees to work temporarily in Thailand under the Immigration Act 1979, enabling them to sustain themselves and contribute to the economy through taxes. He suggested they be permitted to work in Thailand until a long-term solution is found. “We must turn burden into power and obtain a key role on the international stage for Thailand.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

Thai senator’s death penalty drama stirs up capital debate By Petch Petpailin Photo via YouTube/ Senate Channel A Thai senator sparked controversy after proposing a more severe punishment for drug offenders in a parliamentary session that drug suspects must face the death penalty, and their executions should be broadcast on free TV channels. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350451-thai-senator’s-death-penalty-drama-stirs-up-capital-debate/

Photo via YouTube/ Senate Channel By Petch Petpailin A Thai senator sparked controversy after proposing a more severe punishment for drug offenders in a parliamentary session that drug suspects must face the death penalty, and their executions should be broadcast on free TV channels. During a parliamentary meeting on Wednesday, January 29, Senator Amat Ayuken spoke about what he perceived as lenient punishments for suspects in drug-related cases. He proposed revising the laws on drug offences to make them more severe. Amat cited Singapore as an example, highlighting that the country imposes the death penalty on drug offenders. He argued that Thailand should adopt the same approach. Amat further suggested that executions should take place within three months of an offender’s arrest and that they should be broadcast on television. Amat believed this would serve as a strong deterrent, preventing future drug crimes. During his speech, ten other senators stood to show their support. Amat, appearing pleased, continued by addressing other members of Parliament saying… “Do you all think we can do this? My supporters completely agree with me. My suggestion may seem harsh, but it is not. This is not about violence. It is about decisiveness.” Diverse opinions Some senators opposed Amat’s stance. Senator Angkana Neelapaijit, for instance, argued that his proposal violated human rights and human dignity. She asserted that broadcasting executions would not deter crime and would also contravene Thailand’s Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance Act. Angkana acknowledged that people have the right to express their opinions but suggested that Amat should study the law more thoroughly before making such proposals. She added that, in her view, the solution to Thailand’s drug problem was to crack down on major offenders and enforce existing laws more strictly, but without resorting to violence. Despite opposition from some senators, Amat’s proposal gained support from certain members of the public. Chalida “Ton Or” Palamart, the founder of the Be One organisation, endorsed his suggestion and called for rapists and other sex offenders to be included in the measure. Additionally, some Thai netizens urged the government to stop treating drug users as patients and to impose legal punishment rather than rehabilitation. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

Russian man rescued after car crashes into tree, suspected drugs found By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 8 A Russian man crashed his sedan into a tree at the side of the road in the southern province of Phetchaburi, sustaining serious injuries. A packet of white powder, suspected to be a drug, was found in his possession. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350449-russian-man-rescued-after-car-crashes-into-tree-suspected-drugs-found/

Photo via Channel 8 By Petch Petpailin A Russian man crashed his sedan into a tree at the side of the road in the southern province of Phetchaburi, sustaining serious injuries. A packet of white powder, suspected to be a drug, was found in his possession. A video shared by Channel 8 shows rescuers, police officers, and residents in Phetchaburi attempting to retrieve the 38 year old Russian driver, whose name has not been disclosed, from the wrecked vehicle. The grey sedan was seen toppled beneath a large tree, with its front bumper heavily damaged. One of the rescuers was heard in the video saying… “The driver is a foreigner. He is alive and conscious. I heard him groaning.” A police officer was seen using an axe to cut a large branch from the tree while rescuers and locals broke the car window to free the man. According to media reports, the Russian man had blood flowing from his mouth, and a shard of fractured glass was embedded in his neck. He was rushed to Cha-am Hospital in serious condition. No updates on his condition have yet been provided by the police or medical team. During the journey to the hospital, police searched the foreign man and found a small zip-lock plastic bag in his trouser pocket. The bag contained a white powder, suspected to be a drug. Officers have yet to confirm the substance. As no brake marks were found on the road, police suspect the Russian man may have fallen asleep at the wheel and failed to realise he veered off the road until the crash occurred. The impact was hard and caused the tree to collapse on top of the car. -- 2025-01-31

Monk Scandal Unveils Temple Shame in Surat Thani Photo: The Thaiger A shocking scandal has unfolded in Don Sak District, Surat Thani Province, as a once-respected monk sent indecent selfies to a laywoman, tarnishing the image of the Buddhist faith in Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350446-monk-scandal-unveils-temple-shame-in-surat-thani/

Photo: The Thaiger A shocking scandal has unfolded in Don Sak District, Surat Thani Province, as a once-respected monk sent indecent selfies to a laywoman, tarnishing the image of the Buddhist faith in Thailand. The debacle was exposed on January 31 by the "Red Skull" account on X (formerly Twitter), presenting clear evidence of the monk taking inappropriate pictures of himself and soliciting a response from the laywoman. This incident has sparked outrage and demands for intervention from the Office of Buddhism to maintain the sanctity of the Sangha. Reactions online were swift, with many expressing disgust and demanding strict measures against the monk. Others lamented the damage to Buddhism's reputation, while some mocked the monk's boldness in the situation. 7HD news visited the temple and found it deserted, with neglected grounds and only a lone hut remaining, believed to be the monk's hideout. Conversations with the villagers revealed their shocked dismay at the temple's downfall, with many having turned to other sanctuaries for worship. Local reporters partnered with the village headman to inspect the area, worried it might become a haven for vagrants following the scandalous turn of events. This incident has left the community questioning the loss of sanctity and seeking accountability. -- 2025-01-31

Thai Minister Unites Communities in Fight Against Forest Fires Photo: The Thaiger Yesterday, Dr. Chalermchai Sri-on, Thailand's Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, bravely visited the forest fire hotspots in Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai. Joined by Jatuporn Buruspat, the ministry’s permanent secretary, Chalermchai boosted the spirits of firefighters and local communities working tirelessly to control these fires. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350445-thai-minister-unites-communities-in-fight-against-forest-fires/

Photo: The Thaiger Yesterday, Dr. Chalermchai Sri-on, Thailand's Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, bravely visited the forest fire hotspots in Doi Inthanon National Park, Chiang Mai. Joined by Jatuporn Buruspat, the ministry’s permanent secretary, Chalermchai boosted the spirits of firefighters and local communities working tirelessly to control these fires. The team flew over the beautiful yet dangerous landscapes between Doi Inthanon and Mae Ping National Parks, assessing the ongoing wildfire threats. In a crucial move, Chalermchai witnessed the signing of an important agreement between Mae Ping officials and 21 nearby villages. This partnership aims to combat the triple threats of forest fires, haze, and PM2.5 pollution, highlighting the strength of community collaboration. Chalermchai warned about the risky conditions affecting Thailand’s northern, central, and western forests, where dry weather and flammable debris can easily ignite. Provinces such as Chainat, Nakhon Sawan, and Uthai Thani have already experienced wildfires, leading to faster deployment of firefighting teams to clear combustibles and create firebreaks. Helicopters are ready for rapid-response missions to tackle emerging fires. Local community networks play a key role in this effort, with village leaders acting as the first line of defense. The agreement forged with forest-adjacent communities aims to reduce air pollution while encouraging sustainable practices to preserve these vital ecosystems. A generous government budget has been approved for 2025 to enhance firefighting resources, hire more personnel, and improve fire management strategies. Chalermchai urges cooperation from all sectors, encouraging everyone to contribute to this critical cause. -- 2025-01-31

Thailand Targets Boost in Chinese Tourism Despite Challenges File photo for reference only Thailand is stepping up its game to attract more Chinese tourists by increasing charter flights from China's smaller cities and rolling out a significant domestic travel subsidy in June. Chuwit Sirivejkul of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reported that Thailand saw 22,000 to 24,000 Chinese tourists daily in January, reaching nearly 30,000 on January 28th during the Chinese New Year. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350444-thailand-targets-boost-in-chinese-tourism-despite-challenges/

File photo for reference only Thailand is stepping up its game to attract more Chinese tourists by increasing charter flights from China's smaller cities and rolling out a significant domestic travel subsidy in June. Chuwit Sirivejkul of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) reported that Thailand saw 22,000 to 24,000 Chinese tourists daily in January, reaching nearly 30,000 on January 28th during the Chinese New Year. Despite this promising start, over 10,000 tourist group cancellations have emerged due to human trafficking concerns, mostly affecting travelers from China's secondary cities. Independent tourists still maintain steady travel to Thailand. To counteract the slowdown in group tours, TAT is working closely with tour operators to boost arrivals through charter flights, focusing on business groups outside peak travel times. In the Chinese New Year period alone (January 24 to February 2), TAT expects 287,000 Chinese tourists, contributing to 8.8 billion baht in revenue, marking a 7% rise in arrivals and a 9% increase in revenue compared to the previous year. Visitors from Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Vietnam added to the festive spirit, further enhancing Thailand's tourism economy. TAT chief Thapanee Kiatphaibool and Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong greeted Chinese tourists at Suvarnabhumi Airport, with a notable 94% full flight from Shanghai. TAT is ambitious, aiming for 7.2 to 7.5 million Chinese tourists this year, while the Ministry targets 8 million. To keep the momentum going, Chinese influencers will promote Thai tourism. Meanwhile, a phased domestic travel subsidy, "We Travel Together," will launch in June to stimulate local travel during the off-peak season. This year, Thailand expects 770,000 Chinese visitors during the Chinese New Year, a substantial 22.6% increase over the previous year. -- 2025-01-31

Pattaya's Tourism Surge: 40 Billion Baht Investment on the Horizon File photo for reference only Pattaya is on track to become a global tourist hotspot, with a significant 40 billion baht investment aimed at boosting its hospitality and attractions. Asset World Corporation (AWC) is leading the way, as CEO Wallaya Traisorat announced on January 29, the opening of the new Meliá Pattaya Hotel. The 234-room hotel, with an investment of over 2 billion baht, is tailored for workcationers, digital nomads, MICE visitors, lifestyle seekers, and luxury tourists. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350443-pattayas-tourism-surge-40-billion-baht-investment-on-the-horizon/

File photo for reference only Pattaya is on track to become a global tourist hotspot, with a significant 40 billion baht investment aimed at boosting its hospitality and attractions. Asset World Corporation (AWC) is leading the way, as CEO Wallaya Traisorat announced on January 29, the opening of the new Meliá Pattaya Hotel. The 234-room hotel, with an investment of over 2 billion baht, is tailored for workcationers, digital nomads, MICE visitors, lifestyle seekers, and luxury tourists. Meliá Pattaya is part of AWC's ambitious Lifestyle Destination plan, which includes the Aquatique Destination Pattaya, a central project between Soi 6 and the Hard Rock Hotel. This expansive plan, exceeding 30 billion baht, aims to position Pattaya as a premier seaside tourist location and reinforce Thailand’s reputation as a sustainable tourism hub. The recent tourism revival has already led to increased occupancy rates and room prices for AWC’s hotels. Archwin Asavapokin, Deputy Managing Director and CFO of Land & Houses (LH), outlined his company's growth strategy. LH manages seven hotels valued at 14.7 billion baht, with six transferred to a real estate investment trust (REIT) and three more under development. Key projects include the 50-storey Grande Centre Point Lumpini, a mixed-use development opening on April 1 with a hotel and office spaces. Upcoming developments also involve Grande Centre Point Ratchadamri 2 and Grande Centre Point Pattaya 3, both offering around 500 rooms each and opening in 2026 and 2027, respectively. Archwin explained the plan to transfer these hotels to a REIT after three years to fund further projects. With three new hotels in Pattaya, Land & Houses sees continuous tourism appeal in the area, contrasting it with Phuket’s seasonal allure. Additionally, a fourth hotel is on the cards near Grande Centre Point Space Pattaya, with an estimated investment of 4 to 5 billion baht, solidifying Pattaya's status as a year-round tourist destination. -- 2025-01-31

Thai lawyer Sittra charged in 111m baht fraud case By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Office of the Attorney-General (OAG) has charged prominent lawyer Sittra Biabungkerd, known as Lawyer Tam, and six others in a fraud case involving Jatuporn Ubonlert, also known as Madame Oy. The court ordered them to repay 111 million baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350440-thai-lawyer-sittra-charged-in-111m-baht-fraud-case/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post By Puntid Tantivangphaisal The Office of the Attorney-General (OAG) has charged prominent lawyer Sittra Biabungkerd, known as Lawyer Tam, and six others in a fraud case involving Jatuporn Ubonlert, also known as Madame Oy. The court ordered them to repay 111 million baht. This sum includes 72 million baht from a fraudulent online lottery investment scheme and 39 million baht from scams related to luxury car purchases. The OAG disclosed that it received two investigation reports from the police on January 20, prompting the formation of a review committee due to widespread public interest. In the first case, charges against 44 year old Sittra and his 41 year old wife, Patthitta, include fraud, money laundering, and conspiracy to commit these offences under the Penal Code and the Anti-Money Laundering Act. The second case involves the couple and five additional defendants, accused of fraud, deception, and submitting false documents potentially harmful to others. These alleged offences occurred between February 16, 2023, and February 6 last year in various locations across Thailand, Hong Kong, and France. According to the OAG, the indictments highlight severe allegations, prompting comprehensive legal actions against all parties involved. Prosecutors have filed the indictments against the seven defendants with the Criminal Court, which has acknowledged the case and scheduled a plea hearing for February 7 at 9am. In November last year, police arrested the celebrity lawyer and his wife on a highway east of Bangkok, charging them with fraud and money laundering following Jatuporn’s claim of losing 71 million baht to him. Jatuporn, originally from Nakhon Ratchasima province, allegedly resides with her French husband in France, having won a EuroMillions lottery jackpot worth several billion baht. Previously, police confiscated assets from Sittra valued at over 70 million baht, including 28 million baht in cash, a luxury residence worth 43 million baht, and several high-end vehicles, reported Bangkok Post. In April last year, Sittra had accused ex-National Police Chief General Torsak Sukvimol of bribery involving online gambling networks. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

Thai woman fakes kidnapping and miscarriage for attention By Petch Petpailin Photo via Amarin TV A fake Thai nurse in the central province of Ayutthaya yesterday fabricated her pregnancy, kidnapping, brutal assault, and miscarriage to gain her husband’s attention. The husband had only just discovered that she was not a member of the medical profession but merely dressed in a nurse’s uniform. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350438-thai-woman-fakes-kidnapping-and-miscarriage-for-attention/

Photo via Amarin TV By Petch Petpailin A fake Thai nurse in the central province of Ayutthaya yesterday fabricated her pregnancy, kidnapping, brutal assault, and miscarriage to gain her husband’s attention. The husband had only just discovered that she was not a member of the medical profession but merely dressed in a nurse’s uniform. The 52 year old Thai man, Naruebet, called emergency responders yesterday, January 30, and officers from Bang Pa-in Police Station to assist his pregnant wife, 29 year old Kotchapat, after he returned home to find her lying on the ground covered in blood. Kotchapat’s nurse uniform was stained with blood, particularly her trousers. Kotchapat told the officers that she was brutally assaulted by two men and one woman. According to her account, the group cut off her car while she was driving to her workplace, a private hospital in the Bang Pa-in district of Ayutthaya. They allegedly tied her up, blindfolded her with a cloth and forced her into their vehicle. The female attacker then repeatedly beat her stomach, leading to a miscarriage. The woman then drove her to the entrance of the alley where her accommodation was located and left her on the roadside. The two male suspects followed in Kotchapat’s car, and all three suspects fled the scene together. She claimed she could not identify the motive for the assault and insisted she had never had conflicts with anyone. Kotchapat stated that she managed to struggle back to her car and drove home before contacting her husband, who had just returned from work to assist her. Medical check-up uncovers truth She was rushed to hospital for treatment and further medical examination. Unexpectedly, the medical team at Ratchathani Hospital confirmed that Kotchapat was not pregnant and did not suffer a miscarriage or any assault as she claimed. The woman eventually admitted to the police and her husband that she had fabricated the entire story because she felt neglected and suspected her husband of cheating on her. Kotchapat also confessed that she did not work as a nurse, despite having told her husband otherwise. The nurse uniform she wore every day was bought online. The blood on her was not her own but pig’s blood. Naruebet was reportedly shocked to learn the truth. He stated that he had previously been a womaniser but had wanted to change after entering a relationship with Kotchapat and believing she was pregnant. Naruebet revealed that he had recently signed a marriage certificate with her due to the supposed pregnancy. He said he was even more shocked to discover that she was not a nurse, as she had asked him to drop her off at a hospital every morning, making him believe she truly worked there. Nevertheless, Naruebet insisted that he was willing to forgive his wife if she promised to change and never repeat her actions. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

Drunk Thai woman crashes pickup into 11 parked vehicles in Pattaya By Petch Petpailin Photo via 77 Kaoded A drunk Thai woman crashed her pickup into 11 parked vehicles on Pattaya Sai Sam Road in the early hours of this morning. Fortunately, no one was injured in the accident. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350437-drunk-thai-woman-crashes-pickup-into-11-parked-vehicles-in-pattaya/

Photo via 77 Kaoded By Petch Petpailin A drunk Thai woman crashed her pickup into 11 parked vehicles on Pattaya Sai Sam Road in the early hours of this morning. Fortunately, no one was injured in the accident. Officers from Mueang Pattaya Police Station were alerted to the incident at 3.20am today, January 31, and rushed to the scene. They encountered a sedan with a damaged rear bumper, 10 overturned motorcycles, and a damaged pickup, which had come to a stop 500 metres away from the other vehicles. The sedan driver told police that he parked his car in the left lane of the road to buy items from a roadside shop. While he was making his purchase, he heard the crash and rushed to the scene, only to find that his car and several motorcycles were damaged. CCTV footage showed the pickup being driven at very high speed before veering off and colliding with the parked vehicles. The driver did not stop after the crash, but the front wheels were damaged, preventing the vehicle from continuing its journey. The pickup truck driver was identified as 34 year old Chalisa, reportedly an employee at a finance company in Pattaya. Chalisa was heavily intoxicated, reeking of alcohol, and unable to communicate with the police. Officers conducted an alcohol test on Chalisa and found she had over 100 milligrammes per cent of alcohol in her system. Another recent car accident was reported in Pattaya on January 29, when a foreign motorcyclist hit a Russian couple on Jomtien Sai Song Road. The Russian man was killed in the incident, while the motorcyclist and the Russian woman sustained serious injuries. A Thai man who witnessed the accident reported that he stopped his car to allow the Russian couple to cross the road but the speeding foreign motorcyclist failed to do so and crashed into them directly. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

Drunken tourists attack Bolt driver in Pattaya over ‘silent treatment’ By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail A ride-hailing driver in Pattaya was left bruised and battered after a group of drunken tourists attacked him for refusing to engage in conversation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350435-drunken-tourists-attack-bolt-driver-in-pattaya-over-‘silent-treatment’/

Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A ride-hailing driver in Pattaya was left bruised and battered after a group of drunken tourists attacked him for refusing to engage in conversation. The shocking incident took place around 3am on Wednesday, January 29 in Soi Buakhao, South Pattaya, when 29 year old Suradet Khawlamai picked up five passengers from the Marina Pattaya South area. The group included two foreign men, one Thai man, and two Thai women—with the foreign men appearing highly intoxicated. Suradet, who drives for Bolt, remained silent as the passengers chatted among themselves. But things took a turn when the foreigners demanded he talk to them. When he didn’t respond, they accused him of being impolite and threatened to report him to the app. The situation escalated quickly, with the passengers hurling insults and belittling his profession. “People like you can only do a job like this,” one of them sneered. Suradet, unable to hold back his frustration, snapped back with harsh language—which only enraged the group further. The verbal altercation turned physical, with the tourists allegedly attacking Suradet inside his car and damaging his Toyota sedan. Suradet later said he was confused and angered by the attack, questioning why he was assaulted simply for keeping quiet. He urged the police to take serious action against the assailants. Officers from Pattaya City Police Station launched an investigation and summoned the tourists for questioning. The suspects admitted to the assault, blaming Suradet’s use of offensive language for their reaction. Police have scheduled a mediation session today to resolve the dispute, but many online are calling for harsher action against the violent tourists, reported Pattaya Mail. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

Phuket booze ban begins as election showdown heats up By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Phuket News Thailand’s nationwide alcohol ban kicks in at 6pm today, leaving Phuket tourists dry for 24 hours as the country gears up for the Provincial Administration Organisation (PAO) elections tomorrow, February 1. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350434-phuket-booze-ban-begins-as-election-showdown-heats-up/