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Photo courtesy of The Nation By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Reports of ominous warning leaflets telling citizens to stay away from Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra during her visit to Thailand’s southern border provinces have been branded misinformation by local officials. The alleged leaflets were said to have been distributed at key locations in Yala City, including the Yala Central Mosque, Old Market’s Soi 5, and the Jaru Community near Dhamma Foundation School. However, Colonel Kiattisak Niewong, spokesperson for the Internal Security Operations Command Region 4, dismissed the claims, stating no physical evidence of the leaflets had been found. Yala deputy police chief Police Colonel Supakorn Phuengros backed this assertion, confirming that no official complaints had been filed. “Following thorough investigations involving community and religious leaders, no physical leaflets have been discovered. This appears to be an information operation aimed at sowing unrest.” The rumours began circulating on social media yesterday January 16, just days before the 38 year old PM’s scheduled visit to the region. The purported warning urged citizens to avoid Prime Minister Paetongtarn and her Cabinet during their mission to the south, raising concerns of potential disturbances. However, security forces stationed in the Old Market area for the past three days reported no suspicious activities. Police remain vigilant but stress that there is no credible threat to the Thai premier’s visit. They believe the incident is a deliberate attempt by opposition elements to disrupt public order. As the Thai premier prepares for her mission to the southern border provinces, officials are urging the public to disregard unverified reports, reported The Nation. The PM prepared for a visit to Thailand’s southern Muslim-majority provinces by practising the universal Islamic greeting, “as-salaam alaykum” (peace be upon you), aboard an air force helicopter. Assisted by Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong, Paetongtarn repeated the greeting several times to perfect her pronunciation. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-17

Pride and peril: Thai man caught ‘lion’ about cub safety rules By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A Thai man is under investigation by the Department of National Parks (DPN) for transporting a lion cub without proper safety measures, a clear breach of wildlife transport laws. The man’s legal lion lapse could cost him dearly, with penalties including up to a year in prison and a hefty 100,000 baht fine. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349120-pride-and-peril-thai-man-caught-‘lion’-about-cub-safety-rules/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bob Scott A Thai man is under investigation by the Department of National Parks (DPN) for transporting a lion cub without proper safety measures, a clear breach of wildlife transport laws. The man’s legal lion lapse could cost him dearly, with penalties including up to a year in prison and a hefty 100,000 baht fine. The situation roared into the spotlight after a viral post showcased the curious cub clambering freely around a car, tugging at the heartstrings of netizens. Yet, the light-hearted moment quickly turned serious when the post vanished from the man’s Facebook, prompting further scrutiny. Atthaphon Charoenchansa, Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, yesterday, January 16, spoke to Matichon Online, acknowledging the universal cuteness of baby animals but stressing the importance of lawful animal transport. To guarantee both human and animal safety, strict protocol demands a completely enclosed cage for any movement, said Atthaphon. “If you wish to transport an animal for an exhibition or to transfer it to another party, securing permission is paramount.” Specifically, transferring a lion necessitates prior consent from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), reported KhaoSod. The days of moving a lion on a whim are long gone. The case violates multiple regulations, including Section 19 of the National Park regulations, concerning controlled wildlife and carcasses, as well as breaching the Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act B.E. 2019. Consequences are severe, with possible imprisonment or fines on the table, said Atthaphon. “This incident has been traced to the Bangkok area, and our officers are now delving into the details.” It’s a cautionary tale for those thinking they can take a walk on the wild side without following the rules. Meanwhile, the DNP released a report estimating Thailand’s wild elephant population to be between 4,013 and 4,422. These elephants are dispersed across 91 forests. The report highlights increasing conflicts between wild elephants and communities, particularly severe in the eastern forests, with an annual population growth rate of 8.2%, affecting 257 villages across six provinces. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-17

Borderline mystery: Chinese model’s vanishing act stuns nation By Mitch Connor Picture of Chines model Yang Zeqi courtesy of Bangkok Post The mysterious disappearance of Chinese model Yang Zeqi near the Thai-Myanmar border has sent shockwaves throughout his home country of China and prompted his father to make a desperate plea to the Government of Thailand for help in locating his son. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349119-borderline-mystery-chinese-model’s-vanishing-act-stuns-nation/

Picture of Chines model Yang Zeqi courtesy of Bangkok Post By Mitch Connor The mysterious disappearance of Chinese model Yang Zeqi near the Thai-Myanmar border has sent shockwaves throughout his home country of China and prompted his father to make a desperate plea to the Government of Thailand for help in locating his son. Accompanied by lawyer Ratchaphon Sirisakhon, Yang’s father approached Police General Kittharath Punpetch, beseeching him to assist in the search for his son, who vanished shortly after arriving in Thailand last month. This unsettling case echoes a similar incident involving Chinese actor Wang Xing, who was trafficked to a scam centre in Myawaddy but returned to Thailand unharmed after four days, albeit with a shaved head. Wang’s ordeal attracted widespread media coverage in China, compelling the Thai government to address growing safety concerns. These fears have reportedly led some Chinese tourists to cancel their travel plans. Yang’s disappearance has captured international attention, according to Police General Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, an inspector-general with the Royal Thai Police. Lawyer Ratchaphon recounted a disturbing video call between Yang and his mother on December 29, where the model appeared anxious and alarmed. During the call, conducted via WeChat, Yang wore black, sat at a table, and displayed visible eye injuries. Suspicion arose when it seemed someone else was holding the phone as Yang neither sought help nor showed any signs of distress, implying he was being monitored. Despite the family reporting Yang’s case to the police Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division on January 10, progress has stalled. Bangkok Post reported that Yang’s last known location was somewhere in either Phop Phra or Mae Sot district in Thailand’s Tak province, leaving his current whereabouts a puzzle as his social media went silent. There’s no confirmation if Yang crossed the Moei River into Myanmar. Ratchaphon suspects a sinister network involving Thai, Chinese, and Myanmar nationals in Yang’s disappearance. The lawyer claims to have crucial evidence, including photos of vehicle licence plates, demonstrating how Yang was transported from Suvarnabhumi International Airport in one vehicle, only to be transferred to another. As a family clings to hope and an investigation spans borders, the world watches closely for any clues that might unravel this troubling saga. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-17

Roti rebellion: Thai police rescue Burmese teenager from trafficking By Bob Scott Picture of Burmese people being trafficked courtesy of WSJ In a harrowing tale of courage and justice, a Burmese teenager hailed the Government of Thailand for rescuing him from a nightmare of forced labour and trafficking. The 17 year old’s ordeal ended with the conviction of his captor in Bangkok last year, bringing a glimmer of hope to the youth as he waits to return home to Myanmar. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349118-roti-rebellion-thai-police-rescue-burmese-teenager-from-trafficking/

Picture of Burmese people being trafficked courtesy of WSJ By Bob Scott In a harrowing tale of courage and justice, a Burmese teenager hailed the Government of Thailand for rescuing him from a nightmare of forced labour and trafficking. The 17 year old’s ordeal ended with the conviction of his captor in Bangkok last year, bringing a glimmer of hope to the youth as he waits to return home to Myanmar. The teenage survivor expressed his gratitude to the Government of Thailand. “I would like to thank the court and the government shelter who took good care of me. I would also like to thank IJM (his friendly neighbour) who supported me throughout the legal case.” Kidnapped from his family for a mere 10,000 baht (£230), the boy was smuggled across the border from Myanmar to Thailand under the cover of night. Upon reaching his employer’s home in Bangkok, he was cruelly informed of his illegal worker status, with threats of arrest looming if he tried to escape. Forced to toil in a local market making and selling roti bread, the boy endured brutal beatings with phone charging cords and rubber hoses for failing to meet sales targets. For half a year, he suffered in silence, working into the early hours, deprived of pay and adequate food. The breaking point came when he confided in a concerned neighbour, showing them his bruises and revealing the abuse he endured. The empathetic neighbour helped the teen report his plight, leading to a swift rescue by police who brought him to safety in a government shelter. Supported by IJM, the boy received much-needed aftercare and legal assistance. Their efforts culminated in a significant legal victory, with the trafficker sentenced to four years and three months in prison, alongside a hefty fine of 640,190 baht (£14,761). The resilient teenager revealed he was relieved his ordeal was finally over. “I feel that the Thai court has delivered justice. I am still deeply hoping that I will be compensated for my unpaid wages but the sentencing will serve as an example for it not to be repeated to anyone else.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-17

Thai minister demands Shinawatra family forfeit Alpine Golf land By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Golfasian Thai Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who also leads the Bhumjaithai Party, announced yesterday that the Shinawatra family’s ownership of extensive land at Alpine Golf and Sports Club should be rescinded. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is connected to these holdings through familial ties. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349116-thai-minister-demands-shinawatra-family-forfeit-alpine-golf-land/

Photo courtesy of Golfasian By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Thai Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who also leads the Bhumjaithai Party, announced yesterday that the Shinawatra family’s ownership of extensive land at Alpine Golf and Sports Club should be rescinded. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is connected to these holdings through familial ties. Anutin stated that Chamnanwit Terat, the Deputy Permanent Secretary for the Interior, must ensure the revocation is completed by the end of September, ahead of his retirement in October. Chamnanwit oversees the Department of Lands and is expected to fulfil this responsibility, with potential consequences for dereliction of duty if he fails. According to Anutin, the Council of State has already indicated that the land ownership by the private sector should be annulled. If the revocation occurs, the current owners will require compensation, which will be calculated based on the land’s current market value, imposing a significant financial burden on the Department of Lands. Anutin emphasised that this issue does not suggest any conflict between his Bhumjaithai Party and the Pheu Thai Party led by Paetongtarn. A Pheu Thai minister previously claimed that a disputed land plot at Khao Kradong in Buriram province, a Bhumjaithai political stronghold, belongs to the State Railway of Thailand. The 924-rai property at Alpine Golf and Sports Club, along with a housing complex in the Khlong Luang district of Pathum Thani province, was originally donated in 1971 by Noem Chamnanchartsakda to Wat Dhammamikaramvoraviharn, a temple in Prachuap Khiri Khan province. After her death, the Mahamongkut Ratchawittayalai Foundation managed her estate and sold the land to Alpine Real Estate and Alpine Golf and Sports Club, despite legal restrictions on the sale of temple land. Paetongtarn, who assumed office on August 18 last year, previously held 22.41 million shares in Alpine Golf and Sports Club Co. As of September 4, she transferred these shares to her mother, Khunying Potjaman na Pombejra, according to Isra News. Khunying Potjaman is the former spouse of ex-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Shareholder records from September 4 last year reveal that Khunying Potjaman, Panthongtae Shinawatra, and Pinthongta Shinawatra Kunakornwong hold 29.88 million, 22.42 million, and 22.41 million shares in the company, respectively, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-17

Illiterate Hill Tribe Woman Claims Loan Scam; Inquiry Launched File photo for reference only A troubling financial entanglement has surfaced in Chiang Mai province, where Chandi, a 57-year-old illiterate hill tribe woman, alleges she was duped into signing a bank loan document, resulting in a debt near 300,000 baht (approximately £6,800). The incident, originating in 2009, involved Chandi signing for a minor loan of 5,000 baht (£115), yet never receiving the funds nor withdrawing 150,000 baht (£3,400), as per her bank's claim. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349027-illiterate-hill-tribe-woman-claims-loan-scam-inquiry-launched/

File photo for reference only A troubling financial entanglement has surfaced in Chiang Mai province, where Chandi, a 57-year-old illiterate hill tribe woman, alleges she was duped into signing a bank loan document, resulting in a debt near 300,000 baht (approximately £6,800). The incident, originating in 2009, involved Chandi signing for a minor loan of 5,000 baht (£115), yet never receiving the funds nor withdrawing 150,000 baht (£3,400), as per her bank's claim. Samoeng's newly appointed district chief, Siripong Nampha, alongside local officials, visited Chandi and her equally illiterate husband, Jorpo, to unravel this financial puzzle. They have enlisted the aid of Dee (not his real name), the head of the loan group, and a bank representative to probe into the matter further. Dee oversees several loan groups, including Chandi’s, where members supposedly signed mutual guarantees for loans. A discrepancy arose as Chandi’s signature was missing on pivotal documents, raising suspicion of a deeper scam involving automatic fund transfers and withdrawals without her knowledge. The bank insists on strict identity verification processes, yet Siripong’s intervention is crucial due to missing records, including the loan agreement and withdrawal statements. The district chief has mandated a comprehensive meeting with involved parties and requested complete financial documentation to ensure justice is served. In the meantime, Chandi’s refusal to acknowledge the debt persists, particularly after failed negotiations with bank officials, compounding her mistrust. The investigation's outcome hinges on the bank’s cooperation to furnish necessary records to the Dhamrongtham Centre — pivotal to resolving whether any legal redress is warranted. -- 2025-01-16

Eucalyptus Scam Shocks Lad Yao Couple: Plantation Cleared Out File photo for reference only A couple from Lad Yao district, Nakhon Sawan province, has become the unfortunate victims of a scam involving their eucalyptus plantation. Supakorn Tamatalong and his wife, Somporn Kamtalong, had intended to sell their 20-rai plantation for 80,000 baht (US$2,314) through an unknown female broker. They were upfront about requiring full payment before any tree removal was permitted. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349026-eucalyptus-scam-shocks-lad-yao-couple-plantation-cleared-out/

File photo for reference only A couple from Lad Yao district, Nakhon Sawan province, has become the unfortunate victims of a scam involving their eucalyptus plantation. Supakorn Tamatalong and his wife, Somporn Kamtalong, had intended to sell their 20-rai plantation for 80,000 baht (US$2,314) through an unknown female broker. They were upfront about requiring full payment before any tree removal was permitted. In October of the previous year, the broker deposited merely 5,000 baht (US$144) as a gesture of seriousness but delayed the remaining payment. As the new year loomed, the couple remained unaware of any deceit, assured by the broker's continuous reassurances. Their world turned upside down on January 14, when they found their lush plantation completely devoid of trees. Alarmed by the unauthorised clearing, they promptly contacted Lad Yao Police Station to report the crime and seek justice. Insight into the case came from 70-year-old local, Muai Thapthim, who witnessed vehicles visiting the site on January 11. Assuming it was regular trade, she failed to recognise the true nature of the activity. With police investigations underway, the focus is on examining CCTV footage and compiling evidence to trace those responsible for this deceptive act. The local community is watching closely as developments unfold, hoping for a resolution that will restore justice to the aggrieved couple. -- 2025-01-16

Thai Blood Shortage Urges Public for Immediate Donations File photo for reference only Northeastern Thailand faces a pressing blood shortage, with officials from Regional Blood Centre V urging residents to donate in response to hospitals receiving only 30-40% of their required blood supply. Nakhon Ratchasima's 39 hospitals are heavily reliant on the centre, which traditionally expects requests for up to 15,000 units monthly. Currently, they hold a mere 3,000 units, marking an alarming 80% deficit. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349025-thai-blood-shortage-urges-public-for-immediate-donations/

File photo for reference only Northeastern Thailand faces a pressing blood shortage, with officials from Regional Blood Centre V urging residents to donate in response to hospitals receiving only 30-40% of their required blood supply. Nakhon Ratchasima's 39 hospitals are heavily reliant on the centre, which traditionally expects requests for up to 15,000 units monthly. Currently, they hold a mere 3,000 units, marking an alarming 80% deficit. Sirilak Piakkhunthod, head of the blood centre, highlighted key issues contributing to the shortage. Regular donation occurs infrequently, with many donating just once a year instead of every three months. Furthermore, a decline in new donors persists, hindered by health issues such as thalassemia and iron deficiency anaemia. Sirilak strongly appeals to the public, particularly those 17 and older, to recognise the critical need for regular contributions, emphasising the crucial role of awareness campaigns. She stated, “We shouldn’t wait for the perfect moment to donate blood, as declining health might mean missing the chance to do so forever.” Residents prepared to help can visit the Regional Blood Centre V in Nakhon Ratchasima, or use donation sites at Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University and Terminal 21 Korat shopping mall. Immediate action is essential to stabilise the supply and support the region's healthcare needs. -- 2025-01-16

Thailand's Defence Minister Demands Strategic Overhaul Amidst Violence File photo for reference only In the wake of a recent attack in Pattani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Phumtham Wechayachai has called for a comprehensive overhaul of Thailand's southern border strategy. This follows a motorcycle bomb incident that left several defence volunteers and civilians injured. The Minister has sharply criticised the current strategy and urged for a more unified approach that moves beyond the repetitive lifting and reinstating of emergency decrees. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349024-thailands-defence-minister-demands-strategic-overhaul-amidst-violence/

File photo for reference only In the wake of a recent attack in Pattani, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Phumtham Wechayachai has called for a comprehensive overhaul of Thailand's southern border strategy. This follows a motorcycle bomb incident that left several defence volunteers and civilians injured. The Minister has sharply criticised the current strategy and urged for a more unified approach that moves beyond the repetitive lifting and reinstating of emergency decrees. Phumtham highlighted the failures of the existing dual-focus strategy, where military operations complicate peace negotiations. He stressed the need for these areas to be handled separately to achieve meaningful progress. The Minister has directed his advisory team to review past challenges and develop a coherent strategy that better integrates security and peacebuilding efforts. Key to his initiative is the formation of a revised peace committee aimed at identifying and addressing current policy shortcomings. Phumtham is scheduled to visit the southern region with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra today, the 16th January, to focus discussions on enhancing peace efforts. The Minister has also underscored the importance of modernising military operations with advanced technology. He pushed for the use of drones, satellite systems, and surveillance tools to boost operational efficacy and reduce dependency on large patrols. Moreover, he proposed reassigning some personnel to disaster response roles and suggested early retirement schemes for senior officers to streamline the force. This call for transformation comes on the heels of another violent attack in Narathiwat province, where a father and son, both Border Patrol Police officers, were killed by an explosive device followed by gunfire. The incident has heightened the urgency for a reassessment of current strategies to address the ongoing unrest effectively. -- 2025-01-16

Dim sum drama: Hungry tourist rides into restaurant for a bite - video By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Amphika Giew / Facebook via The Phuket News A hungry foreign tourist made an unforgettable entrance into a dim sum restaurant in Chalong in Phuket yesterday driving his motorbike straight into the eatery and causing a stir on social media. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349022-dim-sum-drama-hungry-tourist-rides-into-restaurant-for-a-bite-video/

Photo courtesy of Amphika Giew / Facebook via The Phuket News By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A hungry foreign tourist made an unforgettable entrance into a dim sum restaurant in Chalong in Phuket yesterday driving his motorbike straight into the eatery and causing a stir on social media. CCTV footage captured the bizarre moment yesterday, January 15, as the tourist lost control of his bike, crashing into a parked motorcycle and a table at Mangmee Dim Sum, which was bustling with customers at the time. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the damage was minor. The incident quickly gained online fame after Facebook user Amphika Giew shared the footage, cheekily captioning it, “Whenever you’re hungry, stop by.” The post went viral, sparking a wave of playful comments. “The food must be so delicious you can’t stop.” “No need to fight over a table like that!” Some commenters praised the tourist’s politeness, noting his traditional Thai wai as an immediate apology. “The wai is beautiful, good that no one got hurt.” The restaurant owner, far from holding a grudge, shared her understanding of the tourist’s embarrassment. “He was embarrassed and sorry. I don’t hold a grudge.” Despite the chaos, the unexpected incident has brought a burst of attention to the modest dim sum shop, reported The Phuket News. “A grand entrance like that deserves a round of applause!” Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-16

PM perfects ‘Salaam’ greeting on helicopter to Muslim south By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra prepared for a visit to Thailand’s southern Muslim-majority provinces by practising the universal Islamic greeting, “as-salaam alaykum” (peace be upon you), aboard an air force helicopter. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349021-pm-perfects-‘salaam’-greeting-on-helicopter-to-muslim-south/

Photo courtesy of The Nation By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra prepared for a visit to Thailand’s southern Muslim-majority provinces by practising the universal Islamic greeting, “as-salaam alaykum” (peace be upon you), aboard an air force helicopter. Assisted by Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong, the PM repeated the greeting several times to perfect her pronunciation. “I practised this earlier too, but I want to get it just right.” The greeting, widely used among Muslim communities, holds cultural significance in the southern border provinces. The 38 year old PM was joined by an entourage of top officials, including Deputy PM and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, Deputy PM and Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit, and National Police Chief Police General Kitrat Phanphet. Their one-day mission aimed to engage with local communities and address pressing development issues in Narathiwat, Yala, and Pattani. Initially, the itinerary included stops in all three provinces. However, due to heavy rainfall, the helicopter was unable to land in Pattani. Justice Minister Tawee informed the Thai premier of the change, saying, “The weather makes it unsafe to proceed.” In Pattani, PM Paetongtarn had planned to visit the marine police pier in Mueang district’s Ru Samilae area, meet with fishing boat operators, and oversee projects like dredging waterways and providing soft loans to small businesses. Despite the weather setback, she focused on engaging with residents in Narathiwat and Yala, reported The Nation. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-16

Thai woman abused, forced to shave head by cheating husband By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 A Thai woman is seeking justice after her drug-addicted, unfaithful husband brutally abused and forced her to shave her head. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349020-thai-woman-abused-forced-to-shave-head-by-cheating-husband/

Photo via Channel 7 By Petch Petpailin A Thai woman is seeking justice after her drug-addicted, unfaithful husband brutally abused and forced her to shave her head. The man reportedly denied her request for a divorce and even sent pictures and videos of himself having sex with his mistress to his wife. Chalida Palamart, founder of the Be One organisation, assisted the 29 year old woman, named Onn, and accompanied her to Bang Pakong Police Station yesterday, January 15 to file a complaint against her husband, 33 year old Kittichai. During the interrogation, Onn revealed that she married Kittichai four years ago and had been suffering from physical abuse ever since. Kittichai often accused her of cheating on him but she had never been unfaithful. Onn stated that Kittichai was also addicted to drugs and gambling. He would assault her when under the influence of drugs or after losing in gambling games. He also damaged her cars to fund his addictions. The latest assault occurred on October 24 last year. Kittichai accused Onn of flirting with his friend and brutally attacked her. He then handed her a razor and forced her to shave her head, saying he did not want her to look attractive so she could not have any lovers. Explicit messages Onn decided to leave their shared home the following day, October 25, and moved in with her family in the Isaan province of Sakon Nakhon. However, her abusive husband followed her there and continued to harass her. He also tortured her pet dog until she could no longer stand it and fled to hide in Pattaya. Despite the couple not being divorced, Kittichai began a relationship with a new woman. Kittichai’s lover then messaged Onn, asking her to divorce Kittichai, which Onn agreed to. They arranged a meeting to finalise the divorce but Kittichai unexpectedly refused to sign the document. He demanded that Onn pay him 200,000 baht if she wanted the divorce. Kittichai’s new girlfriend continued to send pictures and videos of herself having sex with Kittichai to Onn. The victim sought a divorce from Kittichai multiple times but he ignored her request. Once, when Onn texted Kittichai about the divorce, he refused to engage with her, saying he was having sex and sending explicit pictures to her. Kittichai was summoned to the police station yesterday to discuss the divorce. Police acted as mediators in the agreement but officers have not yet updated whether the couple managed to resolve the issue. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-16

Former English footballer caught in drug smuggling own goal By Bob Scott Jamie Kilcourse in action. Picture courtesy of Facebook A former footballer from Liverpool confessed he deeply regrets smuggling drugs from Thailand after quitting the professional game to allegedly look after his cancer-stricken grandparents. The former Tranmere Rovers footballer was arrested by immigration police while transferring through customs at Manchester Airport. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349019-former-english-footballer-caught-in-drug-smuggling-own-goal/

Jamie Kilcourse in action. Picture courtesy of Facebook By Bob Scott A former footballer from Liverpool confessed he deeply regrets smuggling drugs from Thailand after quitting the professional game to allegedly look after his cancer-stricken grandparents. The former Tranmere Rovers footballer was arrested by immigration police while transferring through customs at Manchester Airport. Jamie Kilcourse, returning from a holiday in Bangkok with friends, was stopped by Border Force officers upon arrival at Manchester Airport on October 8 last year. Carrying two heavy suitcases, he initially claimed they were packed by him and denied holding them for anyone else. However, the truth quickly unravelled when officers discovered 64 vacuum-sealed packages of cannabis weighing a staggering 38.78 kilogrammes. In a moment of clarity, the 21 year old confessed to a court yesterday, January 15, that he hadn’t been honest. “I didn’t pack the suitcases.” The court heard how Kilcourse had left his budding career in League Two football behind to care for his cancer-stricken grandmother and grandfather. “My mum and dad couldn’t afford to take time off work, so I stepped down from my career.” Despite a life clear of substance abuse, Kilcourse sought solace in Thailand after the death of his grandmother and his parents’ split. “I was mentally not right. I went with my mates to take some time and get my head off things.” The former footballer then found himself intertwined with a friend’s drug debt, which he took upon himself to settle. “My mate’s only 18, and I felt responsible to take it on. Looking back, I should never have got myself in it. I deeply regret that.” While Thailand, Kilcourse found himself pressured by some Scouse lads who were supposedly owed money. Mistaking a suitcase full of drugs for money, Kilcourse agreed to transport it, unaware of its content. Kilcourse maintained that he received “not one penny” for his trouble and expressed feeling “sickened” upon realising the gravity of the situation. Suspended sentence His barrister, Katie Walden, highlighted Kilcourse’s remorse and potential for rehabilitation, advocating for a suspended sentence. “He wants to go back to playing football or coaching,” she said, urging for a sentence that was not “a get out of jail free card.” Manchester Evening News reported that Judge Timothy Smith handed Kilcourse a ten-month sentence, suspended for 18 months, alongside an order to complete 150 hours of unpaid work and participate in 10 days of rehabilitation activities. “You are somebody a lot of people speak well of,” the judge remarked. “Do not be tempted to involve yourself in this again, because you know what the consequences are.” Kilcourse’s tale serves as a cautionary reminder of the dangers of poor decisions and misplaced loyalties, leaving the ex-footballer with much more than a red card on his record. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-16