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Photo courtesy of Aviation A2Z By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Thai police are tightening the screws on travellers using fake documents, with Pakistanis now facing blacklisting if caught. According to ARY News, the Thai Consulate in Karachi has introduced stricter visa guidelines, ensuring that all applicants submit original, verifiable documents, including genuine airline tickets and hotel bookings. A consulate official confirmed, “Anyone caught submitting forged documents, including travel agents, will face strict action, including blacklisting.” The move aims to curb fraudulent entries and strengthen immigration control. This crackdown follows a major bust last year, when Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Immigration team foiled an attempt by two travellers using fake visas at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport. During the operation, the FIA arrested Nazar Abbas who attempted to fly to the Turks and Caicos Islands via flight TK-709 with a forged Cuban visa. Umme Salma, a woman caught trying to travel to Iraq on flight IA-432, using a counterfeit Iraqi visa was also nabbed, reported Ary News. An FIA spokesperson confirmed the arrests. “The arrests highlight the growing issue of fraudulent travel documents and strict action will continue against offenders.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-30

Thai police station up for grabs, bidders in for a brief stay By Bob Scott Picture of SP Klang Dong Police Station courtesy of Channel 7 A Thai police station is going under the hammer and social media is in a right lock-up over it. The Klang Dong Police Station in Nakhon Ratchasima is up for grabs with a starting bid of just 18,800 baht and the online chatter has been criminally good. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350322-thai-police-station-up-for-grabs-bidders-in-for-a-brief-stay/

Picture of SP Klang Dong Police Station courtesy of Channel 7 By Bob Scott A Thai police station is going under the hammer and social media is in a right lock-up over it. The Klang Dong Police Station in Nakhon Ratchasima is up for grabs with a starting bid of just 18,800 baht and the online chatter has been criminally good. The bombshell news broke on the station’s own Facebook page, SP Klang Dong Yindee Servants, which cheekily announced that the half-brick, half-wood cop shop would be sold off and demolished. With tongues wagging across social media, the big sell-off is set for Monday, February 10, at 415 Village No. 12, Tambon Khlang Dong, Amphoe Pak Chong. The bidding kicks off at 10am sharp, following pre-auction formalities from 9am-9.50am. Prospective buyers keen to case the joint can contact the station’s public relations team for an inspection. But it’s the comments online that have really stolen the show. “The safest place is now the riskiest!” “Perfect spot for a ‘goods distribution’ hub.” “Is there a cage room included? If so, it’s already well-secured!” Amid the digital din, Investigator Police Lieutenant Colonel Uaychai Phromwong confirmed the auction is 100% legit. The winning bidder won’t just bag the building, they’ll also be doing hard labour, as they’ll need to dismantle it and clear the land within 30 days. Slackers beware, miss the deadline and you’ll be fined 200 baht a day, or worse, your neglected remains will be flogged off to someone else! Meanwhile, Prawit Warathanawat, a local contractor, has already scouted the soon-to-be ex-cop shop. Intrigued by the bargain price and salvageable materials, he’s weighing up whether to throw his hat in the ring. However, he’s also got his eye on the potential costs of hauling away the debris. So, if you fancy snapping up a slice of Thai policing history or just want to lock in a bargain, now’s your chance – but be quick, or you might find yourself serving time… waiting for the next big auction! Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-30

Publicity stunt: PM Paetongtarn launches monthly TV show By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to make her TV debut this Sunday, February 2, in the first episode of her brand-new talk show, Empowering Thais. The programme aims to promote her government’s achievements and future vision, giving the public a direct insight into national policies. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350321-publicity-stunt-pm-paetongtarn-launches-monthly-tv-show/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to make her TV debut this Sunday, February 2, in the first episode of her brand-new talk show, Empowering Thais. The programme aims to promote her government’s achievements and future vision, giving the public a direct insight into national policies. Airing on Channel 11 of the National Broadcasting Services of Thailand (NBT), the half-hour show will be broadcast on the first Sunday of every month from 8am to 8.30am. For those who prefer to stream, it will also be available on government and public relations department websites and social media, government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsap confirmed today. “The show is designed to raise public awareness of the government policies driving Thailand forward under Paetongtarn’s leadership.” The first episode will recap the government’s work over the past three months, including key takeaways from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland. The prime minister will also address policies of national interest, covering initiatives such as Homes for Thais, One District One Scholarship, and long-term plans to combat PM2.5 air pollution. Jirayu added that viewers can stay updated on government affairs by following ministry platforms and watching the Voices from Thai Khu Fah TV programme, which airs every Saturday at 8am on NBT2HD, reported The Nation. With this new direct-to-the-people approach, will Paetongtarn’s TV strategy help boost public confidence and transparency—or is this just another political PR stunt? Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-30

Bangkok seeks air pollution control status amid rising PM2.5 levels By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of MGR Online The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) plans to request the government’s declaration of Bangkok as an air pollution control area due to anticipated rises in PM2.5 levels over the coming week. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350320-bangkok-seeks-air-pollution-control-status-amid-rising-pm25-levels/

Picture courtesy of MGR Online By Bright Choomanee The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) plans to request the government’s declaration of Bangkok as an air pollution control area due to anticipated rises in PM2.5 levels over the coming week. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt announced yesterday, January 29, that he will present the proposal to the Cabinet next week. Declaring Bangkok a pollution control area would empower the BMA to better address haze pollution by accessing funds from the environment fund, initiated under the Act on the Promotion and Preservation of the Quality of the Environment. The BMA is implementing measures to combat PM2.5 haze pollution, including prohibiting non-registered six-wheeled trucks or larger from entering low-emission zones within the city’s Ratchadaphisek ring road. A network of 259 AI-equipped security cameras monitors for violations, with over 40,000 trucks registered to date. Offenders face fines of up to 2,000 baht (US$60). Last weekend, the number of passengers using electric trains rose by 50% due to the government’s initiative to offer free public transport to counter haze pollution. Consequently, traffic on roads served by electric trains, like Phahon Yothin and Lat Phrao, decreased by 15%. Free public transport on buses and electric trains is available from January 25 until January 1. The government provided a 140 million baht (US$4.14 million) budget to compensate public transport operators for lost revenue. Chadchart has also requested companies to enable remote working to reduce vehicle emissions, a key source of PM2.5. BMA spokesperson Aekvarunyoo Amrapala stated yesterday that PM2.5 levels are predicted to rise over the next seven days, beginning tomorrow, January 31. The capital is expected to experience low air ventilation and temperature inversions, which will hinder air pollution dispersion, increasing the concentration of fine dust particles. Bangkok pollution “From January 30 to February 5, PM2.5 levels are expected to rise and pose health risks.” Residents are advised to protect themselves by wearing masks outdoors, refraining from burning waste, and avoiding vehicles that emit excessive black smoke. The BMA’s Air Quality Information Centre reported that PM2.5 levels across Bangkok’s 43 districts are moderate, averaging 32.8 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m³), below the safety threshold of 37.5 µg/m³. Air quality updates are accessible via the AirBKK application, www.airbkk.com, Line Alert, and the BMA’s Environment Department Facebook page, reported Bangkok Post. Meanwhile, Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul met with provincial governors and state agencies yesterday, January 29, to discuss strategies to address forest fires and haze. A ban on outdoor waste burning is now in effect in 17 northern provinces, with provincial governors tasked with overseeing air pollution control and providing daily updates. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-30

House Backs Single-Ticket Plan for Trains and Buses in Bangkok File photo for reference only Today, the House approved the Pheu Thai Party’s proposal for a single ticket system with a vote count of 226 to 142. This system promises to simplify travel by allowing passengers to use one ticket for both urban trains and bus services. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350243-house-backs-single-ticket-plan-for-trains-and-buses-in-bangkok/

File photo for reference only Today, the House approved the Pheu Thai Party’s proposal for a single ticket system with a vote count of 226 to 142. This system promises to simplify travel by allowing passengers to use one ticket for both urban trains and bus services. A similar proposal by the People’s Party was set aside in favor of the government's plan. Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri explained the bill's details. The Office of Traffic Policy and Planning will oversee the development, and ticket prices will be determined by the Transport Ministry. The bill also includes a fund to support the initiative and transport operators. Minister Charoensri highlighted that the new ticketing system will cut costs for commuters and provide a more seamless travel experience, potentially encouraging more people to switch from private cars to public transport. However, Surachet Praweenawongwut, a People’s Party MP, expressed concerns. He noted that the Pheu Thai Party’s focus on a 20-baht fare for train services might not fully address overall transport costs. The People’s Party bill aimed to create an integrated fare system spanning 8 to 45 baht, covering trains, buses, and boats. -- 2025-01-29

Senator's Earnings Under Scrutiny Over Clinic Name Plate Practices File photo for reference only The Public Health Ministry has initiated an investigation into the earnings of Senator Dr. Keskamol Pleansamai, stemming from her involvement with a clinic in Phetchaburi province. For nearly a decade, Dr. Keskamol reportedly allowed her name to be displayed as a general practitioner at the Keskamol clinic, earning 210,000 baht annually as she declared to the National Anti-Corruption Commission. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350241-senators-earnings-under-scrutiny-over-clinic-name-plate-practices/

File photo for reference only The Public Health Ministry has initiated an investigation into the earnings of Senator Dr. Keskamol Pleansamai, stemming from her involvement with a clinic in Phetchaburi province. For nearly a decade, Dr. Keskamol reportedly allowed her name to be displayed as a general practitioner at the Keskamol clinic, earning 210,000 baht annually as she declared to the National Anti-Corruption Commission. This probe seeks to clarify whether Dr. Keskamol, who earned her degree from Rangsit University, genuinely worked at the clinic, as regulations require physical presence for such endorsements to be lawful. The Phetchaburi provincial health office is tasked with verifying her claims. Should evidence indicate that she had not been present, Dr. Keskamol could be in violation of the Hospital Act. Moreover, the Senator faces additional allegations from the Medical Council, questioning her portrayal as a skincare specialist without the necessary certification, a potential breach of the Medical Profession Act. This situation raises significant concerns about accountability and professional conduct within Thailand's healthcare system. As the investigation unfolds, the implications for Dr. Keskamol’s career and reputation remain to be seen. -- 2025-01-29

Thai cops shut down illegal steroid lab in Bangkok By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Thai police have smashed a massive underground steroid operation, seizing 1.9 million unregistered Dexamethasone tablets in a dramatic raid in Bangkok on January 24. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350240-thai-cops-shut-down-illegal-steroid-lab-in-bangkok/

Photo courtesy of The Nation By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Thai police have smashed a massive underground steroid operation, seizing 1.9 million unregistered Dexamethasone tablets in a dramatic raid in Bangkok on January 24. The joint crackdown by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Central Investigation Bureau (CIB)exposed a dangerous black market scheme, where the powerful steroid was being illegally produced and mixed into health products, from herbal remedies and drinks to cosmetics. Dexamethasone, a controlled substance in Thailand, requires a prescription for legal use. Yet, investigators found it secretly laced into products falsely marketed as miracle cures for pain, asthma, and even cancer. “Misuse of steroids poses a significant threat to public health. Not only do they offer no genuine cure, but their long-term use can have devastating effects on the body,” warned FDA Deputy Secretary-General Dr Withit Sarideechaikul. The unregulated consumption of these steroids can cause stomach ulcers, kidney failure, and severe skin damage, raising grave concerns for unsuspecting consumers. Despite strict regulations, the illegal trade in steroids remains a persistent challenge. FDA Secretary-General Surachoke Tangwiwat emphasised that scammers exploit desperate buyers with misleading promises of fast and effective treatment, reported The Nation. Police urge the public to be extra cautious when purchasing health products, especially those making exaggerated claims. Consumers can verify product authenticity through official FDA channels and report suspicious activities. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-29

Thai couple arrested for swindling millionaire out of 21 million baht By Petch Petpailin Photo via MGR Online Crime Suppression Division officers arrested a Thai couple for deceiving and swindling over 21 million baht from a millionaire in the southern province of Yala. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350239-thai-couple-arrested-for-swindling-millionaire-out-of-21-million-baht/

Photo via MGR Online By Petch Petpailin Crime Suppression Division officers arrested a Thai couple for deceiving and swindling over 21 million baht from a millionaire in the southern province of Yala. The couple, 36 year old Kanpathitcha and 46 year old Ammarin, were arrested at their home in the central province of Samut Prakan yesterday after operating their scam against the female victim in Yala for five years. The victim’s name has not been disclosed. The couple were aware that the wealthy victim was engaged in a legal battle with her ex-husband over the custody of their children. They approached her and offered to assist with the case, claiming they would help her find a lawyer and coordinate with various organisations. To gain complete control over the millionaire, the couple falsely told her that she was wanted for a crime. This led the victim to fear leaving her home, allowing the couple to manage every aspect of her life since 2019. They continued to demand money from the victim, claiming it was needed for legal expenses. Between 2019 and 2023, the millionaire gave them a total of over 21 million baht. Eventually, the victim grew suspicious of the prolonged legal proceedings and took all the documents provided by the couple to the court for verification. She then discovered that all of the documents were counterfeit and subsequently filed a complaint against the couple at Betong Police Station. A police investigation revealed that the couple had also deceived other wealthy victims for financial gain. Arrest warrants were issued against them, prompting them to flee Yala. Officers successfully tracked them down to a house in Samut Prakan and arrested them yesterday. Kanpathitcha admitted to taking money from the victim but claimed she merely borrowed it for an investment and intended to return it. Her husband, Ammarin, however, denied all allegations, insisting that neither he nor his wife took any money from the victim. The couple were charged with violating Section 341 of the Criminal Law: deceiving another person by making false statements or concealing facts to obtain valuables from the victim. The offence carries a penalty of up to three years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to 60,000 baht, or both. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-29

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Bangkok Residents Demand Action Over Disruptive Chinese New Year Fireworks - video File photo for reference only Bangkok's residents are unhappy about fireworks set off by Chinese celebrants during the Chinese New Year. These fireworks have sparked fires in local grasslands, creating chaos for the fire department and distressing pets. Social media users across multiple Bangkok neighborhoods, like Huai Khwang, Rama 9, and Ramkhamhaeng, are voicing their complaints. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350234-bangkok-residents-demand-action-over-disruptive-chinese-new-year-fireworks-video/

File photo for reference only Bangkok's residents are unhappy about fireworks set off by Chinese celebrants during the Chinese New Year. These fireworks have sparked fires in local grasslands, creating chaos for the fire department and distressing pets. Social media users across multiple Bangkok neighborhoods, like Huai Khwang, Rama 9, and Ramkhamhaeng, are voicing their complaints. A local Facebook page, Big Kren, shared a video showing groups celebrating with fireworks. These groups dispersed when police arrived but resumed their activities soon after, causing grass fires that needed fire engines to control. The post highlighted how this ongoing issue affects the elderly, children, and pets, especially in areas like Rama 9 and Srinakarin. Another Facebook page, Drama-addict, reported disturbances in Huai Khwang, questioning the extensive use of fireworks. They stressed the distress caused to pets and called for more caution. Residents are appealing for stricter enforcement by authorities. Fireworks have been set off from Ramkhamhaeng Soi 68 from early evening till 10 PM, causing disruption. This issue recurs during festivals like Loy Krathong and New Year, causing significant annoyance. Despite reports to emergency services and the Huamark Police Station, the fireworks persist. The area, with its significant Chinese community, continues to be affected by noise. The unauthorized sale and use of fireworks, especially in tourist spots like Jomtien Beach, pose safety risks. Mishandling by inexperienced individuals can lead to injuries and property damage. Local police are working to resolve this through stricter laws and awareness campaigns. -- 2025-01-29

Thailand’s Skyward Surge: Aviation Nears Pre-Pandemic Passenger Levels File photo for reference only Thailand's aviation sector is set to soar back to pre-pandemic heights, as predicted by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). The agency predicts at least 25 million passengers flying in 2024, approaching 2019's bustling figures. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350232-thailand’s-skyward-surge-aviation-nears-pre-pandemic-passenger-levels/

File photo for reference only Thailand's aviation sector is set to soar back to pre-pandemic heights, as predicted by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). The agency predicts at least 25 million passengers flying in 2024, approaching 2019's bustling figures. Initially, the aviation recovery was slated for last year. Yet, the slower-than-anticipated return of Chinese tourists, coupled with China's economic concerns, stalled momentum. In 2019, airlines ferried 165 million passengers, in stark contrast to 140 million in 2024, marking an 85.14% recovery. Aircraft shortages have clipped growth, yet airlines have responded by leasing planes. The Transport Ministry has temporarily eased regulations, enabling airlines to lease aircraft with full crews for six months to mitigate shortages. Thailand aims to solidify its reputation as an aviation hub. International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasts Thailand ranking 9th globally by 2033, a leap from its current 19th position. This growth highlights the need for enhanced services, stringent safety standards, and expedited infrastructure projects. To this end, CAAT has been issuing operational certificates and air operator licences to numerous companies this year, ensuring a healthier aviation landscape. Additionally, the introduction of 70,000 seats via special flights during the new year period sought to curb high airfares. Efforts are underway to regain the coveted FAA Category 1 certification, lost in 2015. Achieving this status would enable Thai airlines to expand routes to the US, and boost frequencies to countries governed by FAA regulations such as South Korea, Japan, and Hong Kong. With these strategic moves, Thailand’s aviation sector is poised for a dynamic resurgence. -- 2025-01-29

Thai transwoman stifles laughter as thief steals fake gold necklace By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ คิดให้เป็นข่าว A thief broke into a luxury house in the Isaan province of Udon Thani and escaped with a gold necklace, but the homeowner later confirmed that the stolen item was a fake. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350231-thai-transwoman-stifles-laughter-as-thief-steals-fake-gold-necklace/

Photo via Facebook/ คิดให้เป็นข่าว By Petch Petpailin A thief broke into a luxury house in the Isaan province of Udon Thani and escaped with a gold necklace, but the homeowner later confirmed that the stolen item was a fake. The Thai transwoman, 27 year old Phattarawan Kongphuthorn, filed a complaint with Mueang Udon Thani Police Station officers yesterday after returning home to find signs of a break-in. She searched the house to assess what was stolen and discovered that only her fake gold necklace was missing. Phattarawan’s two-storey home is located in a luxury village on Rob Mueang Road in the Mueang district of Udon Thani. She suspected the thief entered through a bathroom on the second floor, as the air vent duct was damaged. Phattarawan explained that she returned to Thailand from travelling abroad on January 24 but did not visit this house immediately, as she owned multiple properties. She said she arrived at the house yesterday and found her belongings scattered across the floor. Upon inspecting the second floor, she discovered evidence of forced entry into the bathroom. According to Phattarawan, the stolen necklace would have been worth approximately 40,000 baht if it had been genuine. While she was not concerned about the fake jewellery, she was deeply saddened by the loss of the Buddhist amulet attached to it, which was a gift from her father and held great sentimental value. Neighbours told the police that they heard noises and the sound of a heavy object falling on the night of January 27. However, they dismissed it, assuming it was caused by the wind. They insisted that their own homes remained secure and that nothing had been stolen from them. Phattarawan expressed concerns for her safety, fearing that the thief might become angry upon realising the necklace was fake and return to steal more or even harm her. Naewna reported that Phattarawan struggled to contain her laughter while recounting the incident to the police. She told the media that she was unsure whether to be angry at the thief or amused by his failed attempt. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-29

Thai barber denies sexual assault allegation after customer shares video By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 8 A Thai man accused a barber in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen of sexually assaulting him while receiving a haircut, but the barber denied the accusation, claiming he merely flirted with the customer. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350230-thai-barber-denies-sexual-assault-allegation-after-customer-shares-video/

Photo via Channel 8 By Petch Petpailin A Thai man accused a barber in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen of sexually assaulting him while receiving a haircut, but the barber denied the accusation, claiming he merely flirted with the customer. The victim shared his story in a local Facebook group in Khon Kaen, warning others to avoid the barber‘s services. He posted part of a video of the incident with a caption that read… “Please be careful. This is a barber in the Bang Khok Sri community. This would be terrifying if it happened to your children or loved ones. The original video is longer than this and clearly shows the barber’s face. #PervertedBarber.” In the video, the barber can be heard saying, “Just a little suck on your nipples. A little bit OK?” The victim refused his advances and attempted to leave. Workpoint News interviewed the barber, who maintained his innocence. He stated that the incident occurred on Monday, January 27, after he had given the customer a haircut. The barber insisted that he did not touch the customer’s private parts and could not understand why the man fabricated the story and shared it on social media. However, he admitted that he wrapped his arms around the customer’s neck as a tease. He also confessed that he was interested in the customer and flirted with him by inviting him to have a meal together. The barber further claimed that the customer was also interested in him. The barber argued that if he had truly sexually assaulted the man, the customer would have immediately fled the shop. He then showed security camera footage in which the customer was seen paying his respects before leaving on his motorcycle. Despite the barber’s denial, some netizens who previously visited the shop commented that the barber only accepted male customers. One Thai man suggested that the victim must be good-looking, as the barber allegedly only provided services to men he found attractive. Meanwhile, a woman stated that she had visited the shop but was spoken to rudely by the barber. The barber later clarified that he only provided services to men because he had been trained exclusively in men’s haircuts and hairstyling, which was why he had to turn away female customers. Although the victim issued warnings on social media, he did not take legal action against the barber. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-29

Brutal Pattaya beatdown: Thai police hunt down Chinese gang By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Thai police are cracking down on a brutal gang attack in Pattaya that left a Chinese man beaten unconscious in a shocking assault caught on CCTV. The violent attack, which took place on September 13 last year, quickly went viral, sparking outrage and a high-profile police investigation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350229-brutal-pattaya-beatdown-thai-police-hunt-down-chinese-gang/