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"Ninja Thief" Arrested in Pathum Thani for Serial Thefts Picture courtesy of KhaoSod On April 30, police apprehended Koraphak, known as "Oak" or the "ninja thief," in Pathum Thani province following a warrant issued by Taling Chan Criminal Court for fraud. The 32-year-old admitted to conducting thefts to fund his online gambling addiction and sustain his pet cats. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359429-ninja-thief-arrested-in-pathum-thani-for-serial-thefts/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod On April 30, police apprehended Koraphak, known as "Oak" or the "ninja thief," in Pathum Thani province following a warrant issued by Taling Chan Criminal Court for fraud. The 32-year-old admitted to conducting thefts to fund his online gambling addiction and sustain his pet cats. Police Colonel Chotiwat, from the Metropolitan Police Bureau, initiated the investigation after civic activist Kan Chomphalang identified a suspect posing as a delivery rider, who used a motorcycle to flee with goods. This modus operandi targeted areas within Police Region 1 and the Metropolitan Police's jurisdiction. The investigation uncovered a pattern: Koraphak contacted online sellers to arrange purchases, then escaped with goods without paying. Officers eventually traced and found him hiding under a bed, covered by a wooden board, at his residence. The suspect, with an existing warrant, confessed to over 10 similar thefts. Pol. Col. Napasilp noted initial hesitancy from victims in Lam Luk Ka and surrounding areas to report due to the small amounts stolen. However, thanks to Kan Chomphalang's disclosures, police linked Koraphak to 13 cases, precipitating police intervention. The suspect frequently posed as a delivery rider to exploit sellers’ trust on platforms like Facebook, where he would view items before fleeing. In one instance, he even dragged a victim with his motorcycle, causing the victim to lose consciousness. Kan Chomphalang, alongside victims at a police press conference, noted Koraphak's fame for stealing IT equipment and expressed sympathy for his mother, who must endure the fallout of her son's actions. It's reported that Koraphak has engaged in such activities since age 12, including stealing from his own family. Friends indicated that Koraphak's delivery box came from a betrayed senior and connected his thieving past to vocational school, where thefts reportedly funded his gambling. Police operations led to the swift six-hour capture, coordinated across 15 stations, ensuring Koraphak’s detention and further questioning. Sellers are advised to verify customer identities to avoid similar scams. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

Fire Forces Evacuation from Bangkok Building Due to Underground Blaze Photo: Thai PBS World This morning, tenants were urgently evacuated from an eight-story building on Surasak Road in Bangkok’s Bangrak district after a fire erupted in its underground parking lot. The thick smoke emanating from the blaze was visible from the exterior, prompting immediate evacuation proceedings. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359427-fire-forces-evacuation-from-bangkok-building-due-to-underground-blaze/

Photo: Thai PBS World This morning, tenants were urgently evacuated from an eight-story building on Surasak Road in Bangkok’s Bangrak district after a fire erupted in its underground parking lot. The thick smoke emanating from the blaze was visible from the exterior, prompting immediate evacuation proceedings. According to the building's website, the lower floors are designated for office use, while the upper stories serve as residential spaces. The initial investigation suggests that the fire might have been sparked by electric vehicles parked in the underground area. At the time of reporting, firefighters and rescue workers were striving to contain the fire, while evacuees gathered nearby. The full extent of the damage, including the number of vehicles affected, remains unclear as emergency services work diligently to extinguish the flames completely before they can safely access and assess the lower floors. The situation is still developing, and authorities are expected to conduct a detailed investigation once the site is declared safe. The event highlights the potential risks associated with underground parking in mixed-use buildings, especially concerning electric vehicle safety. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-05-01

Thai Labour Groups Demand Reform on Labour Day Labour day parade in Bangkok | Photo via Thai-Danish Chamber of Commerce On Labour Day, Thai labour organisations have put forth nine pivotal demands aimed at improving workers’ rights and protections. Chief among these is the establishment of a risk insurance fund, deemed essential by Panus Thailuan, President of the National Congress of Thai Labour. This fund would serve to shield workers from unfair dismissals and unpaid severance in cases of business closures. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359425-thai-labour-groups-demand-reform-on-labour-day/

Labour day parade in Bangkok | Photo via Thai-Danish Chamber of Commerce On Labour Day, Thai labour organisations have put forth nine pivotal demands aimed at improving workers’ rights and protections. Chief among these is the establishment of a risk insurance fund, deemed essential by Panus Thailuan, President of the National Congress of Thai Labour. This fund would serve to shield workers from unfair dismissals and unpaid severance in cases of business closures. To create this fund, amendments to existing labour protection laws are proposed, requiring employer contributions to ensure compensation for employees when businesses shut down without settling dues. A notable demand is the revision of Ministerial Regulation No. 7 from 1998, which currently stipulates a disparity in overtime pay rates between salaried and daily-wage workers. The Labour Ministry has recognised this issue and aims to amend the regulation by June, ensuring monthly salaried employees receive overtime pay at 1.5 times their wage, consistent with daily-wage workers. Other critical demands include securing the right to association and collective bargaining, tax exemptions on lump-sum payments up to one million baht for dismissed employees, inclusion of state enterprise employees in the social security system, a minimum pension of 5,000 baht, lifetime healthcare for retirees, stricter enforcement of labour regulations, and improved worker safety standards. Labour groups have also called for a task force to monitor the government’s progress in addressing these issues. In tandem with these demands, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has urged the government to protect the rights of all worker categories, including formal, informal, migrant, and gig economy workers. The NHRC cited ongoing concerns like wage theft and social security exclusion as pressing issues affecting these groups. In Phuket, top officials are echoing the call for proper adherence to social security regulations, warning business owners of the legal and ethical implications of failing to register and contribute to the social security system. The Phuket Social Security Office emphasises the importance of these contributions as financial safeguards for workers. The collective push from labour groups and human rights advocates reflects a growing demand for comprehensive reforms and protections to enhance the livelihoods and rights of workers across Thailand. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

EU-Thailand FTA Negotiations Progress Despite Political Challenges File photo for reference only Negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Thailand and the European Union are progressing well, according to Bernd Lange, Chair of the Committee on International Trade and European Parliament member. Despite historical political uncertainties in Thailand, both parties aim to finalise the agreement by the end of the year. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359424-eu-thailand-fta-negotiations-progress-despite-political-challenges/

File photo for reference only Negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Thailand and the European Union are progressing well, according to Bernd Lange, Chair of the Committee on International Trade and European Parliament member. Despite historical political uncertainties in Thailand, both parties aim to finalise the agreement by the end of the year. Lange noted that crafting such comprehensive trade agreements is a complex process, often comprising around 500 pages of conditions and articles. “The progress is really good,” Lange reassured in a recent online interview with Thai PBS World, while acknowledging the time required to reach a final decision. The FTA talks, which first began in March 2013, were interrupted by Thailand’s political instability following the 2014 military coup. However, negotiations resumed in March 2023, renewing hopes for a successful trade partnership. In light of global economic uncertainties, particularly due to US tariff policies, Lange emphasised the importance of cooperation between the EU and ASEAN countries. While an overarching FTA with all ASEAN nations is currently impractical, Lange is optimistic about bilateral agreements. He recently led a delegation to Indonesia to expedite an agreement there and noted that the EU already has FTAs with Singapore and Vietnam, leading to a 20% increase in EU investment in ASEAN. The EU hopes to collaborate with ASEAN on renewable energy projects, reinforcing its role as a dependable trading partner. Lange underscored that, unlike current US trade policies, the EU offers stability and predictability in its trade relations. As Thai-EU negotiations move forward, there is optimism that this FTA could enhance economic ties and foster greater collaboration, contributing to economic stability in the region. Both parties continue to work towards a mutually beneficial agreement amid the dynamic global trade environment. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-05-01

Commerce Ministry Unveils "Back to School 2025" Discounts File photo for reference only The Commerce Ministry has rolled out its "Back to School 2025" campaign, offering discounts of up to 74% on 8,000 educational items. This initiative is designed to ease financial pressures on parents and stimulate economic activity ahead of the new school term. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359423-commerce-ministry-unveils-back-to-school-2025-discounts/

File photo for reference only The Commerce Ministry has rolled out its "Back to School 2025" campaign, offering discounts of up to 74% on 8,000 educational items. This initiative is designed to ease financial pressures on parents and stimulate economic activity ahead of the new school term. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan announced that the campaign is a collaborative effort with over 50 producers, wholesalers, retailers, and online marketplaces. From April 30 to May 31, products and services will be sold at reduced prices across 24,924 stores nationwide and through various online platforms. Items on offer include school uniforms, shoes, stationery, textbooks, educational materials, tutoring services, internet packages, and even musical instruments. Parents can expect to save more than 300 million baht, with the campaign projected to circulate 900 million baht in the economy. Additionally, the ministry has partnered with the private sector on projects to cut living costs for Thais, thereby boosting the economy. These projects involve reducing rental fees in wet markets, lowering postal fees, providing sales space for seniors through the "Choojai Seniors 60+" programme, and collaborating with retailers on essential item promotions. Minister Pichai highlighted that these initiatives have injected over 30 billion baht into the economy and are part of the ministry’s broader effort to enhance people’s livelihoods. Despite rising production costs, the ministry has kept inflation levels stable. In fact, last year's inflation rate was managed to a mere 0.4%, a figure well below initial projections, thanks to adept price management strategies. This "Back to School" campaign, along with other economic initiatives, underscores the government's commitment to supporting families and stimulating economic growth amidst changing economic conditions. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-01

EC Seeks to Revoke Senator Keskamol's Voting Rights Over Qualification Misrepresentation Photo via Keskamol Pleansamai/Facebook The Election Commission (EC) is poised to petition the Supreme Court in a bid to strip Senator Keskamol Pleansamai of her voting rights. This move follows allegations that Keskamol misled the public regarding her academic qualifications during her Senate campaign in June 2024. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359422-ec-seeks-to-revoke-senator-keskamols-voting-rights-over-qualification-misrepresentation/

Photo via Keskamol Pleansamai/Facebook The Election Commission (EC) is poised to petition the Supreme Court in a bid to strip Senator Keskamol Pleansamai of her voting rights. This move follows allegations that Keskamol misled the public regarding her academic qualifications during her Senate campaign in June 2024. At the heart of the controversy is Keskamol’s claim of holding a professorship and a PhD from California University, assertions that helped her secure the most votes in the final polling round on June 26. However, the EC’s investigation revealed discrepancies, noting that while California University serves as a foreign credential evaluation body, its certificates are not accredited by Thai authorities. This discrepancy violates Section 77 of the 2018 Senate election law, which prohibits misleading declarations to deceive voters. Keskamol, who does hold a legitimate medical degree from Rangsit University, faced further criticism on social media about her self-proclaimed multiple graduate degrees and professorial title. Furthermore, the Medical Council of Thailand clarified that she is not certified as a skin specialist, thus should not label herself as such. In addition to her political career, Keskamol owns four beauty clinics with substantial online exposure. Interestingly, she opted to join the Freelance Workers group rather than the Public Health group in the Senate election. If found guilty under Section 77, Keskamol could face substantial legal repercussions: a prison sentence of one to ten years and/or fines between 20,000 and 200,000 baht, coupled with a potential 20-year disqualification from voting. Should the Supreme Court accept the EC's case, Keskamol would need to suspend her duties as a senator while awaiting a verdict. Adding to her legal battles, Keskamol is facing another complaint of possible collusion during last year’s Senate election. EC Chairman Ittiporn Boonpracong recently announced that the commission aims to complete its inquiry into alleged election fraud by the end of this month. Concurrently, the Department of Special Investigation is probing related accusations of vote-rigging and money laundering connected to the election. This unfolding saga underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in the electoral process, as well as the stringent measures in place to uphold the integrity of Thai politics. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

Supreme Court to Probe Enforcement of Thaksin’s Prison Sentence File photo for reference only Today, the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Holders of Political Office has decided to hold an inquiry on June 13th to investigate whether the prison sentence of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been enforced properly. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359420-supreme-court-to-probe-enforcement-of-thaksin’s-prison-sentence/

File photo for reference only Today, the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Holders of Political Office has decided to hold an inquiry on June 13th to investigate whether the prison sentence of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been enforced properly. The decision emerged amidst ongoing doubts regarding the enforcement of Thaksin’s prison term by the Corrections Department. In contrast, the court dismissed a petition by former Democrat MP Charnchai Issarasena seeking an inquiry into Thaksin’s six-month controversial stay at the Police General Hospital, citing that Charnchai is not a directly injured party. In this upcoming inquiry, key figures have been summoned, including the governor of the Bangkok Remand Prison—designated as Thaksin’s initial place of incarceration—the director-general of the Corrections Department, the chief doctor at the Police General Hospital, and the prosecutor involved in Thaksin’s case. Thaksin was initially sentenced to eight years in prison for corruption but later received a Royal commutation reducing the term to one year. However, he spent six months in the Police General Hospital, later released on parole due to age-related considerations. This inquiry follows multiple attempts by Charnchai to have previous court rulings revisited. He has persistently sought to have Thaksin returned to prison, challenging the Corrections Department’s decisions. The Supreme Court, in its past rulings, emphasized that the enforcement of Thaksin’s imprisonment and his conditional medical treatments were managed within the appropriate remit and authority of the Corrections Department. As the inquiry date approaches, the focus will remain on the legality of the Corrections Department's actions and whether the measures taken in Thaksin's case adhered to judicial protocols. This inquiry is crucial for addressing public concerns around the enforcement of justice and ensuring transparency in politically sensitive legal matters. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-05-01

Pattaya Officials Crack Down on Unauthorised Signs in Public Spaces Advertisement signs advertised on electricity poles in Pattaya | Photo via Pattaya Mail Pattaya City officials have initiated a campaign urging residents and visitors to stop attaching signs or writing on public property, such as electrical poles and other municipal infrastructure. This movement aims to preserve the city’s cleanliness, orderliness, and aesthetic charm. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359418-pattaya-officials-crack-down-on-unauthorised-signs-in-public-spaces/

Advertisement signs advertised on electricity poles in Pattaya | Photo via Pattaya Mail Pattaya City officials have initiated a campaign urging residents and visitors to stop attaching signs or writing on public property, such as electrical poles and other municipal infrastructure. This movement aims to preserve the city’s cleanliness, orderliness, and aesthetic charm. Authorities have made it clear that anyone caught violating these regulations will be subject to legal action. This announcement has sparked significant discussion online, with many locals showing support while also raising concerns. A notable issue highlighted is the problem of election campaign signs, which are often seen obstructing views and posing potential safety hazards. A resident recounted to Pattaya Mail a near-miss traffic accident caused by a large obstructive sign, underscoring the gravity of the issue. Many have called for consistent enforcement, especially regarding political advertisements. There is a strong sentiment among the public that all unauthorised signage should be promptly removed and offenders fined, regardless of the sign's nature or purpose. Pattaya officials have assured the public of their commitment to implementing these regulations consistently and equitably. The goal is to ensure that public spaces remain tidy, safe, and inviting for everyone. The effectiveness of this campaign relies not only on the city's enforcement efforts but also on community cooperation in maintaining Pattaya’s visual appeal and safety. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

People’s Party Demands Probe into Chinese Student Visa Exploitation People's Party Deputy Leader, Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn | Photo via Facebook/Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn The People’s Party has called upon the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation to scrutinise international study programmes allegedly exploited by Chinese nationals for acquiring student visas to engage in illegal work in Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359416-people’s-party-demands-probe-into-chinese-student-visa-exploitation/

People's Party Deputy Leader, Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn | Photo via Facebook/Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn The People’s Party has called upon the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation to scrutinise international study programmes allegedly exploited by Chinese nationals for acquiring student visas to engage in illegal work in Thailand. Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, the party’s deputy leader, pointed to the March 28th collapse of the State Audit Office (SAO) building as a testament to the adverse effects of the zero-dollar business model, prevalent across various sectors including education. This model, often associated with foreign operators, particularly from China, contributes negligible economic value to Thailand. The zero-dollar business concept gained notoriety through Chinese tourism businesses offering tours that generate no substantial financial benefit for Thailand or its partners. Wiroj spotlighted similar activities within higher education, revealing that Chinese engineers in Thailand, operating under student visas, were identified during the SAO building’s post-collapse inquiry. Investigations showed these engineers were engaged by a seemingly Thai company, secretly owned by Chinese interests. Wiroj asserted that the international courses attracting Chinese nationals were conducted solely in the Chinese language, implying these programmes merely facilitated student visas for individuals tied to the zero-dollar industry. He further noted that the thesis processes in such programmes involved panels of Chinese academics who allegedly received payment to craft students' dissertations, highlighting academic malpractice. The university in question reportedly fell under the control of Chinese investors using Thai proxies, with tuition funds channelled through a parent company in China, while the local affiliate declared minimal profits to sidestep tax obligations. Moreover, it was revealed that some Chinese-led construction firms, disguised as local entities, imported materials from China and employed only Chinese engineers. Wiroj’s petition, aiming to address these issues, was submitted to Supamas Isarabhakdi, the Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation. The situation underscores a pressing need to reform practices within the education sector and tighten visa regulations to prevent the exploitation of Thailand’s educational resources and address broader concerns of economic integrity and safety. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

Foreign Man's Erratic Behaviour Sparks Concern in Jomtien Tourist talking to Jomtien municipal officers before sprinting away | Photo via Pattaya Mail Jomtien municipal officers were called into action on April 30th to address reports of a foreign man behaving suspiciously along Jomtien Second Road in Pattaya. Initially, the situation seemed manageable, with the individual amicably interacting with officers and pedestrians. However, tensions rose when the man unexpectedly took off running, leaving both residents and authorities concerned. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359414-foreign-mans-erratic-behaviour-sparks-concern-in-jomtien/

Tourist talking to Jomtien municipal officers before sprinting away | Photo via Pattaya Mail Jomtien municipal officers were called into action on April 30th to address reports of a foreign man behaving suspiciously along Jomtien Second Road in Pattaya. Initially, the situation seemed manageable, with the individual amicably interacting with officers and pedestrians. However, tensions rose when the man unexpectedly took off running, leaving both residents and authorities concerned. Local residents have increasingly voiced their unease over the man's erratic actions. One witness reported seeing him talking to himself earlier that morning, while another claimed he attempted to chase a dog with apparent harmful intent. These incidents have compounded fears, particularly as some locals assert that this isn’t the first occurrence of such behaviour. In response, Jomtien municipal officers and the police have reassured the public of their commitment to closely monitor the situation to maintain community safety. The strange incidents have fueled a significant public discourse, with many online commenters calling for stricter visa regulations and tougher measures against foreign nationals who could compromise safety. The growing public concern highlights the need for effective communication and intervention strategies by local authorities to handle such issues sensitively while ensuring the protection of the community. As investigations continue, residents hope for a resolution that will alleviate their fears and restore a sense of security in the area. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

Fake TDAC Website Emerges as New System Debuts in Thailand Photo: Bangkok Post On the very day Thailand launched its new Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) system for foreign visitors, a fake website has surfaced, aiming to deceive travellers. This fraudulent site poses as an official third-party service, charging users a US$10 processing fee, whereas the legitimate TDAC service is free. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359413-fake-tdac-website-emerges-as-new-system-debuts-in-thailand/

Photo: Bangkok Post On the very day Thailand launched its new Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) system for foreign visitors, a fake website has surfaced, aiming to deceive travellers. This fraudulent site poses as an official third-party service, charging users a US$10 processing fee, whereas the legitimate TDAC service is free. The TDAC system, which officially commenced on May 1st, replaces the traditional paper TM6 arrival cards. This digital transition is mandatory for all foreign nationals entering Thailand, whether by air, sea, or land. Travellers complete their details via the official TDAC website and receive an email confirmation to present upon arrival. Amidst the transition, the Immigration Bureau addressed confusion regarding application deadlines, clarifying that forms can be submitted up to three days prior to arrival, but not earlier. Contrary to some reports, applications do not require submission at least three days in advance. Assuring a seamless implementation, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports announced that the system is prepared with backup measures. In case of complications, travellers can temporarily revert to paper immigration forms. Additionally, computer terminals are ready at Suvarnabhumi Airport for those who need to fill out the TDAC upon arrival. While the real TDAC aims to streamline the arrival process, travellers are urged to verify the official website to avoid scams like the emerging fake site. Authorities remain vigilant in safeguarding visitors against such fraudulent activities as the system continues to roll out. Admin note: To clarify, both https://tdac.in.th and https://tdac.agents.co.th are legitimate websites operated by AGENTS CO., LTD. The official TDAC form is available at https://tdac.immigration.go.th, which uses the official .go.th government domain. If you choose to use an agency for submission, always ensure the website uses a Thai domain such as .co.th or .in.th, as these domains are restricted to verified Thai identities and cannot be registered anonymously. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-01

Doctor Paul Chambers Wins Right to Ditch Monitoring Bracelet U.S. political science lecturer Paul Chambers (left) of Thailand’s Naresuan University, stands outside the police station in Phitsanulok | Photo via AP In a notable victory for Doctor Paul Chambers, the Court of Appeal Region 6 has ruled that he can remove the electronic monitoring (EM) bracelet that he has been required to wear since April 10th. This decision comes after Chambers appealed a previous court order, amid an ongoing legal battle involving allegations under Thailand’s strict royal defamation laws. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356887-american-academic-faces-thai-royal-insult-charges-in-legal-storm/#findComment-19772630

Doctor Paul Chambers Wins Right to Ditch Monitoring Bracelet U.S. political science lecturer Paul Chambers (left) of Thailand’s Naresuan University, stands outside the police station in Phitsanulok | Photo via AP In a notable victory for Doctor Paul Chambers, the Court of Appeal Region 6 has ruled that he can remove the electronic monitoring (EM) bracelet that he has been required to wear since April 10th. This decision comes after Chambers appealed a previous court order, amid an ongoing legal battle involving allegations under Thailand’s strict royal defamation laws. On April 28th, Chambers sought the removal of the EM device from the Phitsanulok Provincial Court. However, the court, after a detailed hour-long review, denied his request, maintaining their initial stance to uphold the conditions set by the Court of Appeal Region 6. Undeterred, Chambers took his case to the higher court, which has now overturned the earlier decision, allowing him to remove the bracelet. Despite this success, Chambers is still bound by various bail conditions, including the surrender of his passport and a ban on traveling outside Thailand without explicit court approval. The legal proceedings against Chambers are rooted in allegations from the Third Army Region commander. It is claimed that Chambers posted an article on the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute's website, containing content deemed defamatory to the Thai king. Under Thailand's stringent Section 112 of the Criminal Code, commonly referred to as the lese-majeste law, such actions are punishable by harsh penalties. Chambers, an academic with ties to Singapore, has firmly denied these allegations, asserting that he did not author or post the contentious article, nor is he involved in managing the website. Chambers' ordeal began when he voluntarily approached investigators on April 8th, upon learning that a court-issued arrest warrant had been placed. Despite his cooperation, the Phitsanulok Provincial Court initially detained him and denied bail twice on the same day. The situation took a turn when the Court of Appeal Region 6 temporarily released him the following day, imposing conditions that included appointing a supervisor for the duration of his release, alongside wearing the electronic bracelet. The permission to remove the EM device represents a pivotal moment, yet the underlying charges remain unresolved. Chambers continues to fight the allegations, which have spotlighted the controversial lese-majeste laws, often criticized for suppressing free speech and academic freedom. Chambers' case has attracted widespread attention from human rights organizations and academics globally, who argue that such legal actions threaten academic freedom and expression. The Human Rights Lawyers Centre in particular has been vocal, using social media to highlight the implications of these charges on international human rights standards. As the investigation progresses, this legal battle not only affects Chambers personally but also raises larger questions about the application of Thailand’s lese-majeste laws. These developments are being closely monitored, both within Thailand and internationally, as they may have significant implications for freedom of speech and the rights of individuals to engage in critical discourse. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

Photo: Vietnam News In a coordinated effort, 221 Vietnamese citizens who were detained in Myanmar for breaching immigration regulations have been safely repatriated on April 28-29 via three flights from Bangkok, Thailand. This initiative was jointly organised by Vietnam's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) and Ministry of Public Security, alongside Vietnam's diplomatic missions in Myanmar and Thailand, and relevant authorities from these countries. This follows an earlier repatriation on April 9, which brought an additional 39 Vietnamese citizens home. The MoFA has consistently urged Vietnamese citizens to exercise caution regarding overseas job offers that claim to offer “easy work with high pay” but lack the requisite qualifications, contracts, or formal recruitment processes. They advise thorough research of job details, locations, recruiter credentials, insurance policies, and benefits. Consulting with the relevant authorities is also recommended to prevent becoming undocumented migrants. For further assistance, Vietnamese citizens or their relatives in Myanmar are encouraged to contact the Vietnamese Embassy in Myanmar through its phone number +95 966088 8998 and email [email protected]. Similarly, the Vietnamese Embassy in Thailand can be reached at +66 8989 666 53 and [email protected]. The foreign ministry's consular protection hotline (+84 981 84 84 84) and email ([email protected]) are also available for urgent support and guidance. This repatriation emphasizes Vietnam's commitment to ensuring the safety and legal rights of its citizens abroad, while also raising awareness about the risks associated with informal overseas employment channels. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Vietnam News 2025-04-30