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Photo: The Phuket Express Phuket authorities arrested a French national named Mr. Gauthier for illegally working as a tour guide, with further investigations now focusing on the involved tour company. The operation took place at Yamu Pier in Pa Khlok, Thalang, following multiple complaints and video evidence. For some time, the Phuket Tourist Police had been receiving complaints about a foreigner conducting tours without the necessary authorisation. Responding to these concerns, law enforcement conducted surveillance at Yamu Pier, a key departure point for tour boats heading to Naka Yai, Naka Noi, and Rang islands. There, they observed Mr. Gauthier, assisting tourists aboard a speedboat without a properly licensed Thai guide present. Upon identifying and apprehending Mr. Gauthier, it was confirmed that he was unlawfully employed by a tour company in Thailand. He was taken to the Phuket Tourist Police Station where he faced charges related to working without a valid permit and acting as a tour guide without proper licensing. Further investigations exposed significant discrepancies within the tour company employing Mr. Gauthier. Although officially registered as a motorbike service company, it not only failed to provide licensed tour guides but also neglected to offer insurance coverage for its tourists. These infractions put the company in violation of the Tourism Business and Guide Act, which could result in fines of up to 500,000 THB each for neglecting to assign a licensed guide and for failing to provide travel insurance. Authorities have confirmed that the Tourism Business and Guide Registration Office will enforce administrative penalties against the company. This is expected to include the suspension of the company’s operating license, underscoring the seriousness with which Thai authorities are addressing illegal tourism activities. The case serves as a reminder of the stringent regulations governing the tourism sector in Thailand, ensuring safety and compliance in the industry. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Phuket Express 2025-05-02

Phuket Con Artist Arrested for Scamming Local Eateries Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News In Phuket, a 29-year-old man known only by his nickname "Knot" has been arrested after weeks on the run for scamming local restaurant owners. Knot targeted small eateries by posing as a food delivery customer, leaving at least 10 victims financially out of pocket. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359537-phuket-con-artist-arrested-for-scamming-local-eateries/

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News In Phuket, a 29-year-old man known only by his nickname "Knot" has been arrested after weeks on the run for scamming local restaurant owners. Knot targeted small eateries by posing as a food delivery customer, leaving at least 10 victims financially out of pocket. Knot's modus operandi involved riding around Phuket on a black M-Slash motorcycle. He would enter restaurants and order meals worth approximately 300 baht. After placing his order, he asked to charge his phone and then requested 700 baht in cash, promising that a friend would transfer 1,000 baht in return. Trusting this exchange, vendors handed over the cash, only to see him disappear without a trace. One notable incident occurred in mid-April at a somtam shop on Damrong Road in Talat Yai, Phuket Town. This scam was not an isolated incident, with multiple reports surfacing across the area. The Phuket City Police tracked Knot's movements over several weeks. He evaded capture by avoiding his usual residence and opting for daily room rentals. However, a breakthrough came on May 1, around 7.30pm, when an informant tipped off the police that Knot had checked into a love hotel on Komaraphat Road. Officers from Phuket City Police Station, alongside the Phuket Provincial Police Investigation Division, orchestrated a raid. The informant knocked on Room 20's door, enabling the police to arrest Knot with a court-issued warrant dating April 25. The operation concluded smoothly, with Knot taken into custody without resistance. During interrogation at Phuket City Police Station, Knot confessed to the scam and admitted using the illicitly obtained cash to purchase crystal meth. A urine test confirmed his drug use, resulting in an additional narcotics charge. Police Colonel Chatree Chueakaew, Superintendent of Phuket City Police, confirmed that Knot was denied bail, with investigators strongly opposing his release due to concerns of potential reoffending. The police are urging other victims of Knot's scheme to come forward, suggesting that his criminal activities might be more extensive than initially revealed. The investigation remains ongoing, as authorities work to uncover the full extent of Knot's deceptive cons. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-02

Thai Engineer Scammed Out of 8 Million Baht in Elaborate Scheme Photo: Bangkok Post In a harrowing tale that has gripped the Thai public, a 32-year-old engineer with a PhD, referred to only as Siwat, was duped out of more than 8 million baht by an intricate phone scam. The incident came to light after Siwat sought help from social media activist Ekkapop Luangprasert, founder of the Sai Mai Tong Rod Facebook page, where the story quickly went viral. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359536-thai-engineer-scammed-out-of-8-million-baht-in-elaborate-scheme/

Photo: Bangkok Post In a harrowing tale that has gripped the Thai public, a 32-year-old engineer with a PhD, referred to only as Siwat, was duped out of more than 8 million baht by an intricate phone scam. The incident came to light after Siwat sought help from social media activist Ekkapop Luangprasert, founder of the Sai Mai Tong Rod Facebook page, where the story quickly went viral. The ordeal began on April 5 when Siwat received a phone call from an individual claiming to be an official from the Department of Special Investigation (DSI). The caller accused him of involvement in opening mule accounts linked to a notorious former politician, now under arrest. This unexpected accusation left Siwat in shock. The scammers' tactics were highly sophisticated. They managed to convince Siwat to add them as a friend on the Line chat app, escalating the scam with video calls and official-looking documents. These documents detailed the confiscation of mule accounts and instructed Siwat to transfer his funds for "examination of the money trail." The caller insisted that Siwat remain in a location where he would be undisturbed to ensure compliance. What ensued was a week-long ordeal characterised by relentless pressure and threats. Siwat described feeling trapped, as he was warned that failure to comply would result in the confiscation of his assets and those of his family. Additional calls from a supposed female DSI official added to the deception, escalating the sense of urgency and fear. Throughout the seven-day scam, Siwat was coerced into making 11 separate money transfers from five different bank accounts, totalling 8.46 million baht. Even more striking was the gang's demand for Siwat to visit Hat Yai in Songkhla province to convert savings certificates from a Government Savings Bank into further transfers. This elaborate ruse involved keeping the call active during the journey, barring moments when Siwat boarded a flight. Despite living abroad for nine years, Siwat had never encountered scams of this magnitude. Having returned to Thailand a year prior, he was initially confident in recognising scam attempts due to frequent calls from fraudsters. However, this new modus operandi, with its formal documentation and persistent threats, caught him off guard. The situation deteriorated further when the scammers attempted to have Siwat mortgage his 7 million baht condominium, intending to siphon those funds as well. Fortunately, the mortgage process failed just in time. Upon realising the fraud after confiding in his father, Siwat reached out to banks in a bid to recover his lost money, but his efforts have yet to bear fruit. Recognising the gravity of the situation, Ekkapop is working alongside cybercrime police to track down those responsible. He has called on the government to implement more stringent measures to combat the rising tide of scams. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the increasing sophistication of scams and the urgent need for heightened public awareness and preventive measures. As the story continues to unfold, it highlights the challenges in protecting against sophisticated fraud in an increasingly digital world. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-02

Phuket Plans Boat Taxi Service to Ease Traffic Congestion File photo for reference only PHUKET - Boat taxi services are set to connect key beaches and the airport by year's end, according to Surachai Burapanonthachai of the Marine Department. This pivotal new transport option aims to alleviate the island's notorious traffic congestion, particularly between the airport and the bustling downtown areas. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359535-phuket-plans-boat-taxi-service-to-ease-traffic-congestion/

File photo for reference only PHUKET - Boat taxi services are set to connect key beaches and the airport by year's end, according to Surachai Burapanonthachai of the Marine Department. This pivotal new transport option aims to alleviate the island's notorious traffic congestion, particularly between the airport and the bustling downtown areas. The first service is expected to launch within four months, linking western beaches like Patong, Kata, and Karon to the airport, with a journey time of approximately one hour. The initiative stems from January discussions led by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra with stakeholders aiming to improve island transit. Plans are also in the works for a second route from the eastern coast in the following fiscal year, as the western route faces challenges from monsoon winds and rough waters. Potential eastern routes include connections from Yamu cape, Kaew island, Hin cape, and Por bay to the airport. This innovative approach anticipates providing a swift and scenic alternative for residents and tourists alike, positioning Phuket as a leader in island connectivity while addressing urgent traffic concerns. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-02

Thailand Acts to Boost International Tourist Safety Amid Decline File photo for reference only In a pivotal meeting on Wednesday, Sorawong chaired discussions aimed at addressing safety concerns affecting international tourists in Thailand. The gathering brought together key players from the private tourism sector, including representatives from ATTA, THA, TCT, and the Airlines Association of Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359533-thailand-acts-to-boost-international-tourist-safety-amid-decline/

File photo for reference only In a pivotal meeting on Wednesday, Sorawong chaired discussions aimed at addressing safety concerns affecting international tourists in Thailand. The gathering brought together key players from the private tourism sector, including representatives from ATTA, THA, TCT, and the Airlines Association of Thailand. As the current foreign tourism market reaches a critical juncture, Sorawong underlined the urgency of taking swift preventative actions to manage the situation effectively. Acknowledging tourism as the main driver of Thailand's economy, he stressed the importance of leveraging every possible initiative to bolster the sector. Despite a notable decline in arrivals from major markets like China since the start of 2025, tourism revenue has increased compared to the previous year, suggesting that tourists are spending more on their visits. From January 1 to April 27, Thailand welcomed 11,841,911 foreign visitors, marking a slight increase of 0.12% year-on-year and generating 565.6 billion baht in revenue. China, Malaysia, Russia, India, and South Korea emerged as the top five sources of tourists, with each contributing significantly to the visitor numbers. As Thailand seeks to enhance safety, the aim is to maintain its appeal as a premier tourist destination while addressing the underlying issues affecting the sector. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-05-02

Photo: VN Express Nguyen Thi Ut Em, the owner of the American International School Vietnam (AISVN), has been arrested in Ho Chi Minh City on charges of disrupting public order and inciting vandalism at the school's entrance. Police are also investigating two other individuals, Do Linh Phuong and Nguyen Thanh Trieu, in connection with the incident. The allegations stem from late March, when Em and several others reportedly gathered at the AISVN campus gate amid a management dispute, causing a disturbance that impacted local security and social order. The incident has prompted the Ho Chi Minh City Inspectorate to look into potential illegal capital mobilization by the school's managing body, the AISVN American International Education Joint Stock Company. This inquiry focuses on loan and education investment contracts signed with parents. AISVN, established in 2006, follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum. Tuition fees range from VND280–350 million (US$11,000–13,750) for kindergarten, VND450–500 million for primary education, and VND600–725 million for middle and high school. The school employs approximately 130 foreign teachers, 26 Vietnamese teachers, and over 100 additional staff. In late 2023, AISVN attracted controversy when parents demanded repayment of substantial debts. They claimed that the school had engaged in borrowing tens of billions of dong without interest or collateral via loan and investment contracts, offering free tuition to their children under the promise of repayment once the students graduated or transferred. However, parents reported that the promised repayments never materialized. The ongoing investigation seeks to clarify the extent of financial misconduct and ensure accountability for any violations related to these schemes. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-05-01

File photo for reference only In the "World Economic League Table 2022," the Center for Economic and Business Research (CEBR) has projected significant economic growth for Vietnam. By 2036, Vietnam is expected to emerge as the second-largest economy in Southeast Asia, after Indonesia, and rank as the 20th-largest economy globally. The report highlights Vietnam's remarkable economic transformation, attributing much of its success to the Doi Moi reforms initiated in the mid-1980s, which aligned with favorable global trends. These factors have driven Vietnam's transition from a low-income country to a lower-middle-class one, with a purchasing power parity adjusted GDP per capita of approximately $11,608 as of 2021. Vietnam's ambition to reach high-income status by 2045 hinges on maintaining an average annual growth rate of about 5% per capita. However, it faces considerable challenges, including an ageing population and diminishing global trade. To navigate these hurdles, Vietnam must enhance policy implementation, particularly in sectors vulnerable to automation and climate change. CEBR's forecast suggests that Vietnam's economic ranking will significantly improve, leaping from 41st in 2021 to 20th in 2036. This growth underscores the nation's potential in the global economic landscape, provided it strategically addresses the forthcoming challenges. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-05-01

Photo: VN Express Over 30 years ago, as Vietnam began opening its doors to the world, Mark Bowyer played a key role in introducing Australian tourists to this enchanting country. Despite initial skepticism from his family—concerned about Vietnam's war-torn past and potential unwelcoming attitudes—Bowyer found a thriving spirit of hospitality in the Vietnamese people. Hailing from Sydney, Bowyer developed an affinity for Vietnam after flying on the first Qantas flight to Ho Chi Minh City in 1990. This visit was part of a book project documenting Vietnam's economic opening. At the time, tourism required a "tourist permit" for specific areas, reflecting the restrictive travel landscape. Inspired, Bowyer embarked on a mission to promote Vietnam as a tourism destination, using the slogan "Vietnam – after the rain, it shines," coupled with a 1990 photo of Hue's picturesque Huong River. Bowyer sought to highlight Vietnam's warmth and recovery, moving beyond mere remnants of conflict. Undeterred by opposition, Bowyer co-founded Travel Indochina in 1993, focusing on tours through Vietnam. The company's signature tour, "The New Vietnam," offered a 16-day journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City via the Thong Nhat (Reunification) train, illustrating the country's transformative era. The inaugural tour in March 1993 faced challenges like poor roads and basic accommodations. Yet, travelers found these minor compared to the privilege of experiencing Vietnam's vibrant recovery and its people. The Thong Nhat train, emblematic of the era, was basic yet enlivened by local passengers, impromptu musical gatherings, and the spirit of newfound openness. Guests discovered not just Vietnam's historical depth but also a surprising passion for music and karaoke. After leaving Travel Indochina in 2006, Bowyer launched Rusty Compass, offering tours that capture Asia's evolving landscapes. Reflecting on these 30 years, Bowyer remains dedicated to showcasing Vietnam's charm and complexity. Fluent in Vietnamese, Bowyer emphasizes that tourism's future lies in honoring Vietnam's people and their stories. He advocates for a focus on culture and history, engaging travelers' curiosity and fostering deeper appreciation of this richly storied nation. Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-05-01

File photo for reference only A devastating multi-vehicle collision on the northbound lane of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) resulted in the deaths of twelve individuals and left 27 others injured on Labour Day, May 1. The catastrophic event occurred around 12:30 pm at the Tarlac SCTEX Exit Toll Plaza, as confirmed by Central Luzon police chief Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo. Initial reports from the Central Luzon Police Regional Office (PRO 3) indicate that the accident involved three SUVs, a container truck, and a passenger bus. The incident was triggered when the passenger bus collided with an SUV stopped at Lane 2 of the toll plaza. The severe impact created a chain reaction, causing the SUV to crash into multiple vehicles ahead of it. As investigation efforts continue, authorities are working to understand the full scope of the incident and the precise series of events that led to this tragic outcome. The police are looking into all possibilities to determine the cause and prevent such accidents in the future. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Inquirer 2025-05-01

File photo for reference only Despite ongoing urban development efforts, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has declared Manila Bay to remain "alive." The bay is undergoing numerous reclamation projects, raising concerns about potential ecological damage. In its cumulative impact assessment presented on April 30, the DENR acknowledged the bay's vibrance but also highlighted the risks of reclamation on marine ecosystems and fisherfolk livelihoods. Groups like PAMALAKAYA and Kalikasan People’s Network have called for a halt to all reclamation activities to protect these vulnerable elements. DENR Secretary Maria Antonia Yulo-Loyzaga emphasized the importance of considering social, ecological, and cultural impacts in local government development plans, asserting that these must be acknowledged in Manila Bay's ongoing and future projects. The assessment revealed significant biodiversity within Manila Bay, with 51 coral genera and 167 fish species potentially threatened by reclamation. Concerns articulated by Charina Lyna Repollo from the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute include disrupted waterflows, pollutants trapping, and harmful impacts on fisheries and coastal communities. Further, the loss of mangroves and increased sedimentation from these projects could cause more frequent flooding and expose communities to heightened risks during extreme weather conditions. Additionally, increased nutrients in the water may lead to algal blooms, posing threats to marine life and human health. Yulo-Loyzaga urged local governments to incorporate impact assessments into their planning, addressing issues like water quality, mobility, waste management, flood control, and climate change risk. The DENR plans to review environmental compliance certificates and engage with stakeholders to ensure responsible project management. Currently, more than 20 reclamation projects are proposed or in progress, but most were paused following President Marcos Jr.'s call for a comprehensive review. High-profile suspensions include Manila Waterfront City and the New Manila Bay Reclamation and Development Project, though Pasay Harbor City reclamation continues with proper authorization. Moving forward, the next phase of assessments will focus on improving environmental monitoring and flood modeling, ensuring Manila Bay’s development aligns with sustainable practices and health and safety priorities for its communities and ecosystems. Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-05-01

File photo for reference only The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) is urging citizens to actively participate in the fight against illegal drugs through its "Operation: Private Eye" (OPE) initiative. This programme incentivises civilians to report drug activities by offering financial rewards for valuable information. PDEA Director General Isagani R. Nerez highlights that OPE aims to overcome public fear and apathy by maintaining informant anonymity and information confidentiality. During the first quarter of 2025, the programme awarded over P7 million to 16 civilian informants whose reports aided in 22 successful anti-drug operations nationwide. The Operation Private Eye Reward Committee, consisting of PDEA officers and reputable members of the business, academic, and religious communities, evaluates and approves rewards for qualifying informants. Informants use codenames and masks during award ceremonies to protect their identities. Despite personal risks, citizens have demonstrated trust in the PDEA's efforts, furthering community engagement in drug eradication. Under the "Bagong Pilipinas" programme, participatory governance is promoted, seeking broader public involvement in tackling the drug problem. Recent PDEA operations, spanning April 18 to 25, led to the confiscation of illegal drugs valued at approximately P24.95 million and the arrest of 52 suspects. These operations uncovered over 3,000 grams of shabu, among other drugs, and occurred in key areas such as Metro Manila, Dipolog City, and Central and Eastern Visayas, targeting both street-level dealers and high-value syndicate members. Strategic buy-busts, routine checkpoints, and intelligence-led interdictions effectively dismantled trafficking networks across provinces, including significant seizures in Dipolog City and Benguet. Nerez acknowledges the dedication of operating teams, emphasizing continued aggressive measures against drug syndicates and a holistic approach combining enforcement with preventive education. PDEA encourages the public to report suspicious activities through OPE's hotline and social media, affirming the necessity of a united national approach to achieve safer, drug-free communities across the Philippines. Continued successes underscore the importance of coordinated operations and community collaboration in this ongoing battle. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-05-01

Hospital Director Arrested for Drunk Driving Accident in Chaiyaphum Photo of the accident scene | Photo via KhaoSod Late last night, April 30, a drunk driving incident involving the hospital director of Nong Bua Daeng Hospital resulted in severe injuries to two television photographers in Chaiyaphum province. The accident occurred at approximately 10.16pm, as the photographers were about to enter a restaurant for a late-night meal. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359438-hospital-director-arrested-for-drunk-driving-accident-in-chaiyaphum/

Photo of the accident scene | Photo via KhaoSod Late last night, April 30, a drunk driving incident involving the hospital director of Nong Bua Daeng Hospital resulted in severe injuries to two television photographers in Chaiyaphum province. The accident occurred at approximately 10.16pm, as the photographers were about to enter a restaurant for a late-night meal. Police Lieutenant Kanti Piansoongnern, Deputy Inspector at Mueang Chaiyaphum Police Station, responded to the report of a car crash at a Nai Mueang subdistrict restaurant. Accompanied by medical professionals from Chaiyaphum Hospital and the Sawang Khunatham Chaiyaphum Rescue Unit, he arrived on scene to assess the situation. The crash involved a white Toyota displaying a Ministry of Public Health decal, which had veered onto the pavement, damaging the restaurant and scattering its contents. The injured individuals, 33-year-old Aiempha and 35-year-old Thossawat Inphuk, both TV photographers, were promptly given first aid before being transported to Chaiyaphum Hospital. Investigation reveals that the hospital director, after leaving a nearby restaurant-bar, failed to slow down and collided with the photographers as they neared the restaurant entrance. Due to his inebriated state, his vehicle mounted the pavement, resulting in the collision. Police collected initial evidence, analysed CCTV footage, and monitored the condition of the injured. The director was subjected to an alcohol test, which recorded a level of 119 milligrammes, despite attempts to dilute evidence by consuming water, sour milk, and frequent restroom visits. The director has been summoned for further questioning as authorities continue to gather evidence to build a legal case. This incident highlights the critical need for awareness and action against drunk driving to ensure public safety and accountability. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

Police Officer Injured in Ambush Near Checkpoint in Yala Province Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A border patrol officer was injured during a shooting incident while setting up a checkpoint in Mueang district, Yala province, at 8.15pm on April 30. The ambush occurred near the operational base in Baan Chanan, Phorn subdistrict. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359436-police-officer-injured-in-ambush-near-checkpoint-in-yala-province/

Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A border patrol officer was injured during a shooting incident while setting up a checkpoint in Mueang district, Yala province, at 8.15pm on April 30. The ambush occurred near the operational base in Baan Chanan, Phorn subdistrict. The officer, identified as 29-year-old Watcharin Noppapuang, sustained a gunshot wound to his right arm. Emergency services quickly transported him to Yala Central Hospital for treatment, where he is receiving care. Initial investigations suggest that the police team was ambushed by an unidentified group of assailants as they were establishing the checkpoint. The attack ceased after a brief exchange of gunfire, during which Watcharin was injured. In response to the attack, the area has been secured by police, military, and local administration officials who are conducting an extensive investigation. Authorities are on high alert, seeking to identify and apprehend the attackers involved in this coordinated ambush. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

KNLA Seizes Over Six Million Meth Pills Bound for Thailand Picture courtesy of วรศักดิ์ พานทอง Facebook The Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) intercepted a large smuggling operation, seizing more than six million methamphetamine pills destined for Thailand. The bust took place on April 30 in Hpa-An province, Karen State, Myanmar, near the Thai border across from Mae Sariang district, Mae Hong Son. Two suspects were detained in connection with the operation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359435-knla-seizes-over-six-million-meth-pills-bound-for-thailand/

Picture courtesy of วรศักดิ์ พานทอง Facebook The Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) intercepted a large smuggling operation, seizing more than six million methamphetamine pills destined for Thailand. The bust took place on April 30 in Hpa-An province, Karen State, Myanmar, near the Thai border across from Mae Sariang district, Mae Hong Son. Two suspects were detained in connection with the operation. According to a KNLA insider, the interception stemmed from a tip-off received on April 27 by the 7th Brigade of the Karen National Union (KNU), which spotted a suspicious motorboat on the upper Salween River transporting the illicit cargo. The drugs were seized on the Moei River within the KNU’s operational domain. The contraband originated from the Salween River with the intended destination of southern Mae Sariang, Thailand. Additionally, police at a KNU/KNLA checkpoint in Maneplaw confiscated more drugs that had been transported from Pasong, Myanmar, with plans to pass through Mae Sariang into Myanmar's interior. These drugs were linked to an individual associated with the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) and the military council's network. This bust marks the fourth known smuggling attempt using this route. Interrogation of the detained boat captain revealed that the drugs were smuggled under the guise of activities by an anti-dictatorship organisation, purportedly for the organisation's missions. This operation also led to the arrest of four individuals. Initial investigations indicate that the seized drugs are tied to the military council. Typically, once these drugs reach southern Mae Sariang, they are swiftly collected by waiting vehicles for further distribution. In response to this trend of smuggling activities being disguised as organisational missions, KNU/KNLA checkpoints along the Thai-Myanmar border have ramped up their inspection protocols to prevent further illegal trafficking. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

Chinese Tourist Arrested for Overstaying Visa in Chiang Mai Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Yesterday, April 30, immigration police in Chiang Mai apprehended a Chinese national for overstaying his tourist visa. The arrest ensued from a collaborative operation between the Chiang Mai Provincial Immigration Bureau and Immigration Division 5, taking place on Thipanet Road in the Mueang district. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359433-chinese-tourist-arrested-for-overstaying-visa-in-chiang-mai/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Yesterday, April 30, immigration police in Chiang Mai apprehended a Chinese national for overstaying his tourist visa. The arrest ensued from a collaborative operation between the Chiang Mai Provincial Immigration Bureau and Immigration Division 5, taking place on Thipanet Road in the Mueang district. The man was charged with overstaying his permitted duration in Thailand. Authorities ensured he was informed of his legal rights and charges before transferring him to the Chiang Mai City Police Station for further legal proceedings. Steps to deport him back to China are currently in motion. The detainee admitted to not applying for a visa extension after its expiration, in an attempt to avoid detection by law enforcement. He was ultimately captured by immigration police investigators. For those seeking further information or having inquiries, contact can be made with the Chiang Mai Provincial Immigration Bureau through their website at https://chiangmai.immigration.go.th, Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/immchiangmai, or by calling 0 5320 1755. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

Water Truck Brake Failure Leads to Collision in Chon Buri, No Injuries Reported Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A six-wheel water truck experienced brake failure and collided with an electric pole in Chon Buri yesterday, April 30, thankfully causing no injuries. The incident occurred at 2.56pm when the driver took quick action to avoid a more serious accident. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359432-water-truck-brake-failure-leads-to-collision-in-chon-buri-no-injuries-reported/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A six-wheel water truck experienced brake failure and collided with an electric pole in Chon Buri yesterday, April 30, thankfully causing no injuries. The incident occurred at 2.56pm when the driver took quick action to avoid a more serious accident. Emergency services from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Centre in Pattaya responded to reports of the mishap involving the six-wheel Isuzu water truck, registered as 86-0085 Chon Buri. The vehicle lost control and impacted a high-voltage electric pole at the entrance of Sukhumvit 89, or Thung Klom Tan Man, in the Nong Prue subdistrict of Bang Lamung district. Upon arrival, rescue teams found the blue four-tonne truck with its front end significantly damaged. The truck's driver, 35-year-old Thanapol, suffered only minor injuries and remained on the scene to provide information to police officers. Alongside the truck, a dislodged road sign and a damaged security camera pole and control box were noted. Emergency services managed vehicle flow in the often-busy area to prevent traffic disruptions. Thanapol recounted the moments before the collision, mentioning that he was delivering water when he discovered the brakes had ceased to function. Faced with several cars ahead, he opted to steer into the electric pole intentionally. He reasoned that this action was necessary to avoid advancing onto Sukhumvit and colliding with other vehicles, which would potentially result in injuries. Nong Prue police conducted an on-site investigation, documenting the scene and planning to review CCTV footage to assist further proceedings and determinations related to the accident. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01