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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/

Photo courtesy of The Phuket News By Puntid Tantivangphaisal 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. Under Thai election law, the sale of alcohol is strictly prohibited during voting periods. Those caught flouting the rule face harsh penalties, including fines of up to 10,000 baht, six months in jail, or both. Officials have issued strong warnings ahead of the election, urging compliance. Meanwhile, the battle for the presidency of the Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation (PPAO) has reached fever pitch. Three candidates are vying for the top seat, but all eyes are on two frontrunners: Lersak Leenanitikul of the People’s Party and former PPAO President Rewat Areerob. In a high-stakes debate at Phuket Rajabhat University last Sunday, January 26 both candidates doubled down on their key policies. Lersak, a former deputy director of Vachira Phuket Hospital, is running under ballot No.2, backed by big names including former Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat. His campaign promises include: Overhauling Phuket’s public transport system. Introducing trilingual schools and vocational real-life education. Expanding healthcare with universal cancer screening and 24-hour clinics. Tackling flooding, wastewater issues, and ensuring clean water access. Increasing support for the elderly in need. Pita hailed Lersak as “the last piece of the jigsaw puzzle” for Phuket’s transformation, highlighting urgent issues like crime, road safety, and healthcare. On the other side, Rewat, running for re-election under ballot No.1, staged a major rally at Phuket Merlin Hotel, promising real change under the slogan: “We do it for real, not selling dreams.” His campaign focuses on: Expanding mass transit and secondary road projects. Strengthening disaster prevention and launching Phuket Alert. Boosting telemedicine, emergency services, and traditional Thai medicine. Promoting AI education and lifelong learning. Advancing environmental sustainability and carbon neutrality. Developing world-class sports facilities and positioning Phuket as a health hub. Supporting local businesses, international festivals, and cultural heritage. Empowering youth through the Next New Gen initiative. Rewat pointed to his pandemic leadership, citing successful vaccine rollouts, quarantine centres, and economic recovery efforts. “We’ve laid the foundations—now let’s take Phuket to the next level.” With tensions high and policies clashing, Phuket voters face a crucial decision tomorrow. The election will determine the island’s future, but for now, residents and tourists alike will have to endure a dry spell as the alcohol ban remains in force until 6pm tomorrow, reported The Phuket News. The Election Commission (EC) warned against alcohol sales and parties today, January 31, until tomorrow, February 1, throughout Thailand, except in Bangkok. Today, the EC issued a warning to the public regarding the upcoming election of PAO members and PAO presidents, set to take place tomorrow. From 6pm today, January 31 until 6pm on election day tomorrow, February 1, the sale, distribution, and serving of alcohol are strictly prohibited in all 76 constituencies outside Bangkok. Violators of this regulation may face imprisonment and fines. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

Thai airline flight makes emergency landing in Phuket By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Koh Planner Passengers on a Thai airline flight endured terrifying, life-threatening moments yesterday when their aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing at Phuket International Airport due to engine failure. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350433-thai-airline-flight-makes-emergency-landing-in-phuket/

Photo courtesy of Koh Planner By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Passengers on a Thai airline flight endured terrifying, life-threatening moments yesterday when their aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing at Phuket International Airport due to engine failure. The flight, carrying 150 passengers and crew, was approaching Phuket yesterday, January 30, when one of its engines malfunctioned, prompting immediate action from the flight crew. Despite the alarming situation, all onboard escaped unharmed thanks to the calm and professional response of the pilots and cabin crew. The Thai Civil Aviation Authority confirmed the incident. “The crew acted swiftly and ensured the safety of all on board.” One shaken passenger recounted the tense moments before landing. “It was scary, but I trusted the pilots.” As the cause of the failure remains unknown, aviation officials have launched an investigation to determine what went wrong. The airline has pledged full cooperation, with initial reports suggesting that no technical irregularities were detected before takeoff. The emergency adds to the challenges faced by the airline, which has maintained a strong safety record over the years. However, aviation experts warn that engine malfunctions, while rare, are a stark reminder of the risks inherent in air travel. Passengers and industry analysts are calling for greater transparency in safety procedures to reassure travellers. Some experts stress the importance of clear communication between airlines and passengers during such crises, ensuring that travellers remain informed and calm. In a statement following the incident, the airline reaffirmed its commitment to safety, promising a thorough review of protocols to prevent future occurrences. With investigations now underway, the focus is on identifying the root cause of the failure and implementing preventative measures to maintain confidence in airline safety, reported The Pinnacle Gazette. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

Snake and escape: Python slips past Trang officials in daring breakout By Bob Scott Pictures courtesy of Sanook Officials from the Thung Khai Subdistrict Administrative Organisation found themselves in a tailspin when a slippery python made a daring escape. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350432-snake-and-escape-python-slips-past-trang-officials-in-daring-breakout/

Pictures courtesy of Sanook By Bob Scott Officials from the Thung Khai Subdistrict Administrative Organisation found themselves in a tailspin when a slippery python made a daring escape. The reptilian Houdini slithered its way onto the bonnet of their white Nissan pickup truck, leaving onlookers in Trang province utterly gobsmacked. The incident unfolded in the bustling Wang To intersection in the Thap Thiang subdistrict, where the vehicle was briefly parked. The cheeky python, a staggering 4 metres long, was initially spotted basking on top of the truck. Remembering its roots, it then embarked on a daring descent to the ground, attempting to vanish into the nearby grass. Ever alert, the officials stationed at the vehicle were quick to act. With a rope at the ready, they managed to recapture the slippery serpent, returning it safely to its sack with plans to set it free into the wild once more, ensuring it wouldn’t hiss them by again. Word of the python’s great escape spread like wildfire, sparking intrigue among netizens and lottery aficionados alike. All eyes turned to the vehicle’s registration number, KT 3958 Trang, as hopeful punters slithered towards the chance to strike it lucky in tomorrow’s February 1 draw, reported Sanook. Chalermphon, who captured the reptile ruckus on film, recounted the incident while waiting at a red light. He spotted the snake lounging on the Thung Khai Subdistrict Administrative Organisation’s motor, a surprise guest star demanding attention. Officials later revealed they’d nabbed the python from a different location, securing it in a sack to return it to its natural habitat. But, feeling the heat and sensing an opportunity, the python made its audacious escape onto the vehicle. Quick-thinking officials didn’t let this slippery situation coil out of control, ensuring the python was securely bagged and prepped for its return to the wild. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

Thai man shot near penis in jealousy over karaoke bar girl - video By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ป้าจอยฝอยข่าว A Thai man shot attempted to shoot another man’s penis at a karaoke bar in the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat on Wednesday due to jealousy after his favourite bar girl paid too much attention to the victim. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350431-thai-man-shot-near-penis-in-jealousy-over-karaoke-bar-girl-video/

Photo via Facebook/ ป้าจอยฝอยข่าว By Petch Petpailin A Thai man shot attempted to shoot another man’s penis at a karaoke bar in the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat on Wednesday due to jealousy after his favourite bar girl paid too much attention to the victim. The shooting took place at about 11pm on Wednesday, January 29, frightening partygoers and workers at the karaoke bar. The gunman, who remains unidentified, successfully fled the scene, while the victim, 40 year old Bancha, was rushed to Portanklaivajasit Hospital. Bancha was shot in the groin, very close to his penis. He is now in a stable condition and the gunshot wound did not affect his private parts. Officers from Chawang Police Station investigated the karaoke bar and found a 9mm bullet shell at the scene. They questioned witnesses and relevant people and determined that the shooting was motivated by jealousy. According to the police report, the gunman had feelings for one of the bar girls and wanted her to provide service exclusively to him. However, due to her job, the bar girl also attended to Bancha and his friends, who were sitting at a nearby table. Bancha and the suspect became involved in a heated argument, which escalated into the shooting. The security camera at the bar captured the incident and clearly showed the gunman’s face. In the footage, the suspect, wearing a black T-shirt and a red scarf, was seen arguing with Bancha, who was dressed in a yellow polo shirt. The bar girl, believed to be the source of the jealousy, was standing nearby. Unexpectedly, the suspect pulled out a gun and immediately shot Bancha in the groin, causing him to collapse to the ground. Another video showed the gunman continuing to shout angrily as he fled the bar. Amarin TV reported that police are now investigating the incident to identify the gunman and promised to issue an arrest warrant for him as soon as possible. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

Uzbek man nabbed at Phuket Airport for overstaying visa By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket Airport Immigration via The Phuket News A 21 year old Uzbek national found himself in hot water after being arrested at Phuket International Airport for overstaying his visa by six days. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350430-uzbek-man-nabbed-at-phuket-airport-for-overstaying-visa/

Photo courtesy of Phuket Airport Immigration via The Phuket News By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A 21 year old Uzbek national found himself in hot water after being arrested at Phuket International Airport for overstaying his visa by six days. The arrest took place on Wednesday morning, January 29 at around 10.30am, as immigration officers and local police swooped in on the suspect at the international passenger terminal. The operation was led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Akkaraphon Kaewkiattiyot of the Suppression Investigation Unit (ChP.3), under the directive of Pol. Col. Atisak Panya, Superintendent of the Immigration Division 2. According to a brief report released by Phuket Airport Immigration, the suspect—whose name was not disclosed—was taken into custody and immediately transferred to Sakhu Police Station for further legal proceedings. Thailand enforces strict immigration laws, with even minor visa overstays carrying penalties ranging from fines to potential blacklisting or deportation. Visitors caught overstaying for less than 90 days typically face a fine of 500 baht per day but failure to pay can result in detention. Police continue to ramp up enforcement at major airports and border checkpoints, keeping a close watch on foreigners violating visa conditions, reported The Phuket News. With increased scrutiny on overstayers, this arrest serves as a stark reminder that even a few extra days in paradise can land you in serious legal trouble. Travellers are advised to check their visa status carefully and ensure timely renewals or extensions to avoid facing similar consequences. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

Living the dream to living the screams: British man’s tale of survival By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Lee Francis Imagine living the dream, only to have it shattered in the blink of an eye in Thailand: This is the reality for a British man who has captivated the hearts of many with his tale of survival against the odds. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350429-living-the-dream-to-living-the-screams-british-man’s-tale-of-survival/

Picture courtesy of Lee Francis By Bob Scott Imagine living the dream, only to have it shattered in the blink of an eye in Thailand: This is the reality for a British man who has captivated the hearts of many with his tale of survival against the odds. Lee Francis was left paralysed after a motorbike crash in Thailand but is determined to turn his nightmare into a new beginning. It was supposed to be the perfect end to a blissful holiday. Lee and his wife, Clare, were on the return leg of a holiday in Krabi, southern Thailand, on January 19, 2024. They were visiting Lee’s daughter, Katie, and were just moments away from returning their hired bikes. “We’re living the dream,” Lee had said to Clare, only minutes before the fateful accident. Disaster struck, leaving the 55 year old with life-threatening injuries, including a fractured spine in three places and a subsequent pulmonary embolism that further complicated his condition. “I am lucky to be alive.” It’s a testament to sheer resilience and, as he believes, the crash helmet that saved his life. Both Lee and Clare were wearing helmets at the time of the crash, a safety measure that is often neglected by locals and tourists alike in Thailand. “It’s important people realise they have to wear the right equipment.” The Welshman spent an arduous 10 months in hospital, first enduring a week-long battle for survival in Bangkok Phuket Hospital, then embarking on a gruelling rehabilitation programme at Llandough Hospital in the Vale of Glamorgan. “Every day and every year, it will get better,” said the occupational therapist from Church Village, Rhondda Cynon Taf, as he focuses on rebuilding his life from a wheelchair. For Clare, who suffered a concussion and deep abrasions in the crash, the journey has also been a challenging one. Married in the summer of 2022, she has been Lee’s steadfast rock, alternating between the role of carer and wife. “She hasn’t missed a day. She’s changed her role from a wife to a carer and back again. She’s an inspiration to me.” Lee is far from alone, as tragic motorcycle accidents have befallen several Welsh tourists in Thailand recently. Earlier this month, 28 year old Corey Bevis from Barry tragically lost his life in a crash, and Adam Davies from Pembrokeshire sustained severe injuries in late 2022. Lee’s story shines a light on the importance of safety and community support. A community occupational therapist by profession, Lee had dedicated his career to aiding people with disabilities in living independent lives. Ironically, he now finds himself on the receiving end of such care, having taken early medical retirement. Lee and Clare are adapting their home to accommodate his new needs, aided partly by funds raised by the local community. “The community have been absolutely fantastic,” he said, expressing gratitude for their generosity. Lee’s rehabilitation journey took him to Stoke Mandeville Hospital, the birthplace of the Paralympic movement, sparking a renewed determination to embrace sports as a means of healing. “I’ve always loved sport, and it’s always been a healer for me. I know sport will heal me mentally again.” Living with Tourette’s syndrome, Lee is no stranger to facing life’s challenges head-on. With each passing day, he is more committed to inspiring others, sharing a poignant message of hope and resilience. “I would like to inspire other people to realise there is life after injury, and that’s the journey I’m now on.” Despite his daily grief for the life he once had, Lee’s story is one of courage, community, and a relentless drive to find new ways of living the dream. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

4 suspects surrender after violent attacks over FiveM game conflicts By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ อีซ้อขยี้ข่าว : อีซ้อ Four leading members of a criminal gang, known as the Oreo Gang, turned themselves in after they and other 20 members allegedly carried out violent attacks on multiple victims over conflicts stemming from the action-adventure online game FiveMod, commonly referred to as FiveM. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350354-4-suspects-surrender-after-violent-attacks-over-fivem-game-conflicts/

Photo via Facebook/ อีซ้อขยี้ข่าว : อีซ้อ By Petch Petpailin Four leading members of a criminal gang, known as the Oreo Gang, turned themselves in after they and other 20 members allegedly carried out violent attacks on multiple victims over conflicts stemming from the action-adventure online game FiveMod, commonly referred to as FiveM. FiveM allows players to create their own servers and communities, each with unique rules, displays, and membership conditions. Players take on assigned roles, often dictated by influential figures within the game. These roles include various occupations as well as relationships, such as romantic partners, spouses, and friends. The Oreo Gang was one such community within the game but its influence extended beyond the virtual world. Members also met in real life, and the gang reportedly held financial power within the game. Those wishing to join were required to pay membership fees ranging from 2,000 to 10,000 baht, and the gang controlled their in-game roles. Over time, the gang began exerting control over its members beyond the game, intervening in real-life disputes involving them. The gang leader allegedly resolved conflicts through violence, acting without fear of legal repercussions. The full extent of the gang’s criminal activities came to light after two university students from the Rangsit area of Pathum Thani province near Bangkok came forward to seek justice. The students were brutally assaulted following an in-game dispute with the gang. Influencer-backed claim The Facebook news page Esor News subsequently exposed further crimes linked to the Oreo Gang. Reports suggested that the gang had access to civil registration data, enabling them to track down their victims with ease. The two students were not the gang’s only victims. Numerous others were attacked. Some victims were forced to strip naked, eat grass or cigarettes, or endure public humiliation as the gang posted videos of their assaults online. Most of the victims were too afraid to press charges. The gang reportedly claimed connections with influential figures and threatened to kill anyone who went to the police. One of the gang’s leaders, 28 year old Withit, also known as “Tar,” allegedly claimed to be the nephew of prominent political activist Chuwit Kamolvisit to intimidate victims. As public outrage grew, members of the gang brazenly challenged prominent social media influencer Guntouch “Gun” Pongpaiboonwet and well-known news presenter Kanchai “Noom” Kamnerdploy to bring them to justice. No remorse Gun and Noom expressed their anger on social media and followed up on the case, leading to the surrender of four Oreo Gang members at Khlong Luang Police Station on January 30. They were identified as: 28 year old Withit (Tar), 19 year old Akkawin (Win), 28 year old Siwakorn (Ice), and 18 year old Penthai (Min). As of now, legal proceedings against the four are still ongoing, as their actions involve multiple criminal charges. Tar, Win, and Min tested positive for drugs and were transferred to temporary detention at Thanyaburi Provincial Court. Ice was sent to Khuan Meed Police Station in Songkhla province due to an outstanding fraud warrant. In a brief interview with the media, Tar remained defiant, stating that he only resorted to violence against those who caused problems for him or his friends. He expressed no remorse, insisting that each victim deserved the assault. However, he denied seeing himself as a vigilante. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-30

Thai suspects surrender on brutal attack on Chinese businessman By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Following Chon Buri police’s crackdown yesterday, five Thai men linked to a notorious Chinese gang have surrendered to police after allegedly brutally assaulting a Chinese businessman in Pattaya last year in a violent bid to take over his pub. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350353-thai-suspects-surrender-on-brutal-attack-on-chinese-businessman/

Photo courtesy of The Nation By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Following Chon Buri police’s crackdown yesterday, five Thai men linked to a notorious Chinese gang have surrendered to police after allegedly brutally assaulting a Chinese businessman in Pattaya last year in a violent bid to take over his pub. The attack took place on September 14, when Chen Jing, a Chinese businessman and part-owner of a popular Pattaya pub, was ambushed and beaten. The gang, led by Li Jia Rui, also known as Bobby, allegedly wanted to force Chen to sell his shares in the business. Following the attack, Chen filed a complaint with the Immigration Bureau, demanding justice. Police launched an investigation and, on January 23, raided Li’s luxury residence in Pattaya’s Khao Talo neighbourhood. However, he had already disappeared. His wife told officers that Li fled on January 19 and has not been seen since. Police believe he is still in Thailand, with immigration officers tightening border controls to prevent his escape. Meanwhile, the five Thai suspects – Attapol, Jakkrit, Amarin, Phannaphop, and Thanwa – yesterday, January 29, turned themselves in at Pattaya City Police Station. They were charged with assault and making threats at night using vehicles. The suspects denied all charges but were handed over for legal proceedings. This case is part of a larger turf war between Chinese business groups in Pattaya. On March 27 last year, a violent altercation erupted between rival Chinese factions outside pubs owned by Li and Chen, which sit directly opposite each other. As of yesterday, arrest warrants have been issued for 10 out of 14 suspects, including both Chinese and Thai nationals. Four remain on the run, prompting police to seek international cooperation to track them down. The incident has sparked public outrage, with growing calls for stricter enforcement against foreign criminal networks operating in Pattaya. Local police are now under mounting pressure to crack down on organised crime and restore public safety, reported The Nation. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-30

Motorbikes flout Pattaya’s one-way rule, locals demand action By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Traffic in Pattaya’s bustling Buakhao area is turning into a dangerous free-for-all, as motorbikes continue to ignore one-way restrictions on Soi Honey and Soi Diana, raising serious safety concerns among residents and business owners. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350352-motorbikes-flout-pattaya’s-one-way-rule-locals-demand-action/

Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Traffic in Pattaya’s bustling Buakhao area is turning into a dangerous free-for-all, as motorbikes continue to ignore one-way restrictions on Soi Honey and Soi Diana, raising serious safety concerns among residents and business owners. Despite clear one-way street designations, riders are brazenly driving against the flow of traffic, creating chaos and near-miss collisions in the heart of Pattaya’s nightlife district. Locals say the lack of enforcement has turned the rule into a meaningless suggestion, putting both motorists and pedestrians at serious risk. “There’s no point in having a one-way system if no one follows it. The police need to take action before someone gets seriously hurt.” Many residents and business owners believe that stricter enforcement is the only solution, urging local officials to crack down on reckless riders before tragedy strikes. They are calling for heavier fines, increased police presence, and stricter traffic control measures to restore order to the streets. The situation highlights a growing problem with traffic law enforcement in Pattaya, where violations often go unchecked. With ongoing efforts to improve road safety, local officials are now under pressure to step up and prevent further accidents before it’s too late, reported Pattaya Mail. Pattaya faces ongoing traffic challenges, particularly in congested areas like Buakhao, Walking Street, and Jomtien. The rapid growth of tourism, nightlife activities, and an increasing number of vehicles contribute to serious road safety concerns. Despite having traffic regulations in place, poor enforcement leads to widespread issues, including running red lights, driving on footpaths, and illegal parking. Tourists unfamiliar with Thai road rules also contribute to accidents, particularly when renting motorbikes without proper experience. Heavy congestion is another major problem, particularly on Beach Road, Second Road, and Sukhumvit Road, where gridlock during peak hours is a frequent occurrence. Double parking and street vendors occupying road space further worsen the situation, making it difficult for traffic to flow smoothly. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-30