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Picture courtesy: Naewna Controversy erupted in Thailand as former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra faced sharp criticism for his recent remarks made during an election campaign event in Chiang Rai province. On Sunday, Thaksin spoke in support of a Pheu Thai-backed candidate for the upcoming Provincial Administrative Organisation election on 1st February. However, his comments, perceived as racist by many, quickly overshadowed the political gathering. Thaksin suggested that promoting Thai women, renowned for their beauty, as international models would be straightforward, controversially implying that even African women, with their "bad features" and skin colour, earn substantial sums. Such statements drew immediate condemnation. Senator Angkhana Neelapaijit, a former National Human Rights Commission member, has called for Thaksin to withdraw his remarks and issue a public apology, arguing that his words are discriminatory, racist, and in violation of human rights protections. This issue has struck a chord with many citizens and sparked widespread discussion online. Netizens have voiced that Thaksin’s remarks not only damage his reputation but also threaten the electoral success of the candidate he intended to bolster. Adding to the complexity of the situation, Thaksin’s role in campaigns is viewed cynically, with some sceptics suggesting he still holds significant sway over the country's political landscape. His daughter, the formal leader of the Pheu Thai Party and current prime minister, is seen by many as a nominal figurehead, leading to claims that the nation operates under the influence of two leaders. This incident highlights ongoing tensions surrounding leadership optics and the impact of personal remarks on political ventures, significantly influencing public discourse and electoral prospects. -- 2025-01-06

Thai Police Nab Facebook Job Scam Suspect in Soap-Packing Hoax File photo for reference only In a significant breakthrough, Thai police have apprehended a woman accused of running a Facebook scam promising soap-packing jobs. The suspect, a 23-year-old identified as Sasikarn, was arrested on January 5th in Nakhon Ratchasima. Her arrest follows a warrant issued in October, linking her to a series of fraudulent activities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348071-thai-police-nab-facebook-job-scam-suspect-in-soap-packing-hoax/

File photo for reference only In a significant breakthrough, Thai police have apprehended a woman accused of running a Facebook scam promising soap-packing jobs. The suspect, a 23-year-old identified as Sasikarn, was arrested on January 5th in Nakhon Ratchasima. Her arrest follows a warrant issued in October, linking her to a series of fraudulent activities. The operation, supervised by Metropolitan Police Chief Siam Boonsom and the Crime Suppression Division, targeted Sasikarn, a Saraburi province resident, for charges including public fraud and computer-related deception. She is believed to have allowed her bank account and phone number to be used for the scam. Victims reported being lured by a Facebook page offering soap-packing jobs in exchange for a membership fee and further payments for necessary equipment. These payments were never refunded, and the fraudulent page disappeared once transactions were completed. During interrogation, Sasikarn claimed she opened a bank account at the request of a casual acquaintance, not receiving any compensation for it. Nevertheless, she remains in custody at the Khlong Luang Police Station and is due to face legal proceedings for her alleged involvement in the scam. -- 2025-01-06

Bangkok Faces Worsening Air Quality with Unsafe PM2.5 Levels File photo for reference only Bangkok and 66 of Thailand's 76 provinces experienced hazardous air quality on Monday morning, as ultrafine dust levels reached unsafe highs. According to the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), particulate matter 2.5 micrometres or less in diameter (PM2.5) reached harmful red levels in several provinces, with Sing Buri reporting the highest concentration at 85.6 microgrammes per cubic metre. This figure far exceeds the government’s safe limit of 37.5µg/m³. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348069-bangkok-faces-worsening-air-quality-with-unsafe-pm25-levels/

File photo for reference only Bangkok and 66 of Thailand's 76 provinces experienced hazardous air quality on Monday morning, as ultrafine dust levels reached unsafe highs. According to the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), particulate matter 2.5 micrometres or less in diameter (PM2.5) reached harmful red levels in several provinces, with Sing Buri reporting the highest concentration at 85.6 microgrammes per cubic metre. This figure far exceeds the government’s safe limit of 37.5µg/m³. In Bangkok, all 50 districts reported unsafe PM2.5 levels, with Bangkok Yai suffering the most at 102.3µg/m³. Across the city, 34 districts saw red levels, while others also experienced elevated concentrations, causing concerns for residents' health. The situation highlights Bangkok's ongoing struggle with air pollution, urging authorities to act swiftly to mitigate risks and protect citizens' health. The dramatic spike serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable measures to improve air quality. -- 2025-01-06

Thailand's Household Debt-to-GDP Decline Fuels Optimism File photo for reference only Thailand's household debt-to-GDP ratio is expected to fall more rapidly than previously forecasted, as per the Bank of Thailand's latest financial stability report. This progress is attributed to ongoing debt reduction initiatives and a newly introduced debt relief scheme. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348067-thailands-household-debt-to-gdp-decline-fuels-optimism/

File photo for reference only Thailand's household debt-to-GDP ratio is expected to fall more rapidly than previously forecasted, as per the Bank of Thailand's latest financial stability report. This progress is attributed to ongoing debt reduction initiatives and a newly introduced debt relief scheme. The report notes a significant decline, with the ratio dropping to 89.6% in the second quarter of 2024 from 91.3% at the end of 2023. Despite reaching lower levels, Thailand's debt ratio still towers over regional figures like Malaysia's 66.5% and China's 62%. The improvement owes much to the "You Fight, We Help" initiative, launched recently to alleviate financial burdens by slashing monthly payments and mortgage interest. However, the central bank warns that rapid debt reduction amidst stagnant income levels could lead to liquidity issues, potentially stifling consumer spending and economic growth. Growing financial vulnerabilities among households and SMEs have been highlighted, with worries about asset quality declines among at-risk borrowers. Particularly, small and micro SMEs face financial strain, with many struggling to cover interest expenses. Conversely, some large corporations are curbing new debt due to high existing levels, though they maintain repayment capacity. The business sector's debt-to-GDP ratio fell to 86.5% from 89.9% as observed during the pandemic peak. Despite concerns over potential financial strain, the overall financial system remains robust, with no signs of an emerging asset price bubble. This stability ensures a solid foundation for Thailand's future economic expansion. -- 2025-01-06

Thailand Develops Cyber Fraud Insurance Amid Rising Cyber Threats File photo for reference only Thailand's National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) is spearheading the creation of a cyber fraud insurance framework to combat the growing threats from cyber-attacks and data breaches. This initiative aims to aid organisations in managing risks tied to the Cybersecurity Act and the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348066-thailand-develops-cyber-fraud-insurance-amid-rising-cyber-threats/

File photo for reference only Thailand's National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) is spearheading the creation of a cyber fraud insurance framework to combat the growing threats from cyber-attacks and data breaches. This initiative aims to aid organisations in managing risks tied to the Cybersecurity Act and the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA). NCSA Secretary General, Amorn Chomchoey, highlighted the lack of a comprehensive framework for cyber fraud insurance in Thailand, despite its urgent necessity. Such insurance is intended to protect against financial loss from cyber threats like phishing, identity theft, and data breaches—a common service in other markets. The NCSA is actively collaborating with the Office of the Insurance Commission (OIC) and other stakeholders to develop clear guidelines essential for encouraging businesses to adopt this insurance. The OIC’s role is crucial in establishing criteria to support the service's implementation. Notably, previous efforts by a major mobile operator in Thailand involved independently offering compensation for compromised customer data. Meanwhile, the need for a structured approach is underscored by findings from the Thailand Computer Emergency Response Team, which documented nearly 1,827 cyber-attack cases last year. Amorn's vision for a formalised framework aims to enhance cybersecurity awareness and help enterprises better manage cyber risks, safeguarding both business interests and personal data in Thailand's evolving digital economy. -- 2025-01-06

Ruble trouble: Russian tourist robbed and roughed up in Phuket By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A Russian man is seeking justice after a fellow countryman physically assaulted him and stole approximately US$5,000 (nearly 200,000 baht) from him at a hotel in Phuket. The theft reportedly had ties to the victim’s rival. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348064-ruble-trouble-russian-tourist-robbed-and-roughed-up-in-phuket/

Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ By Petch Petpailin A Russian man is seeking justice after a fellow countryman physically assaulted him and stole approximately US$5,000 (nearly 200,000 baht) from him at a hotel in Phuket. The theft reportedly had ties to the victim’s rival. The Russian victim, 31 year old Zelimkhan Iusupov, filed a complaint at Karon Police Station today, January 6, following the theft, which occurred at a hotel in the area at approximately 3.21am on January 5. Iusupov alleged that the incident involved his rival, Andrey Veselov. Iusupov explained that he had been asleep in his hotel room when he was woken by someone knocking on the door. He rushed to open it without checking who it was, only to find himself face-to-face with the assailant, also a Russian national. The suspect wore a hoodie and a face mask to conceal his identity. He repeatedly punched and kicked Iusupov in the face, causing him to collapse to the floor. Iusupov said he was unable to fight back as he recently underwent stomach surgery. According to Iusupov, the suspect mentioned a debt and demanded repayment. Iusupov claimed to know nothing about it, but the suspect continued his assault, taped Iusupov’s mouth shut with duct tape, and tied him up. The suspect then forced Iusupov to speak to someone over the phone, and Iusupov recognised the voice as belonging to Veselov. Iusupov admitted he had a conflict with Veselov over cryptocurrency while in Russia. Iusupov further alleged that Veselov threatened to kill him if he refused to transfer US$12,000 to him. Veselov reportedly demanded the password to Iusupov’s crypto account, but Iusupov refused, prompting further assaults. Fearing for his life, Iusupov offered the suspect cash from his luggage, totalling around US$5,000, or nearly 200,000 baht. The thief took the money and struck Iusupov on the back of his neck, rendering him unconscious. When he regained consciousness, Iusupov found himself alone in the room and immediately went to the police station to report the incident. The Phuket Times reported that police are now searching for two Russian suspects and questioned the victim in further detail. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-06

Thaksin denies Cabinet reshuffle, supports energy cost cuts By Ryan Turner Photo via Pirapan Salirathavibhaga/Facebook Thaksin Shinawatra, Thailand’s former prime minister and the alleged de facto leader of the Pheu Thai Party, has put to rest rumours suggesting the potential dismissal of Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga in the next Cabinet reshuffle. Yesterday, January 5, Thaksin clarified that no such reshuffle is currently planned. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348063-thaksin-denies-cabinet-reshuffle-supports-energy-cost-cuts/

Photo via Pirapan Salirathavibhaga/Facebook By Ryan Turner Thaksin Shinawatra, Thailand’s former prime minister and the alleged de facto leader of the Pheu Thai Party, has put to rest rumours suggesting the potential dismissal of Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga in the next Cabinet reshuffle. Yesterday, January 5, Thaksin clarified that no such reshuffle is currently planned. Pirapan, for his part, denied any discord with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra or the Pheu Thai Party. He emphasised that his work in reducing energy costs is fully supported by the government. When questioned about the rumours of Pirapan’s removal, Thaksin stated that there is no friction between the two. “No. We’ve talked and understood. There’s nothing wrong between us. I’ve known Pirapan for a long time. He has great determination and good understanding.” Thaksin further elaborated that he and Pirapan have been discussing strategies to reduce household electricity costs from approximately 4 baht per unit to 3.70 baht per unit. Thaksin even expressed a desire to bring it down to 3.5 baht per unit. Yesterday in Chiang Rai, the 75 year old Thaksin was campaigning for Saluckjicht Tiyapairat, a previous head of the Chiang Rai Provincial Administration Organisation (PAO). Saluckjicht is married to Yongyuth Tiyapairat, a former House Speaker and a close political ally of Thaksin in the north, and is the mother of Piyarat Tiyapairat, a Pheu Thai MP from Chiang Rai province. Previous resistance Pirapan has previously faced resistance from the United Thai Nation (UTN) Party, particularly when he led a movement to slash energy prices. This move was met with opposition from energy business leaders, who were also financial supporters of the party. However, his current efforts to lower energy costs have gained popularity among the public. As the leader of the UTN Party, Pirapan maintains close ties with former PM Prayut Chan-o-cha, who is now a privy councillor. In the last General Election, the UTN presented Prayut as their top prime ministerial candidate. Before Thaksin addressed the matter, Pirapan had already dismissed reports of friction between him and the government party through a Facebook post. He mentioned that certain media outlets had been spreading false information about him and, when those efforts failed, fabricated stories about a conflict with Pheu Thai. “My efforts to cut energy prices succeeded because of their support.” Pirapan highlights the backing he received from former PM Srettha Thavisin and current PM Paetongtarn, who are aligned with government policy. He also affirmed that Paetongtarn is committed to dismantling monopolies. An inside source mentioned that Pirapan felt the need to clarify the situation following speculations about his possible removal, alongside Industry Minister Akanat Promphan, who is also the UTN Secretary General. The source added that there is no conflict between the UTN leadership and the ruling party, and party MPs remain unified. Solidarity Akanat also took to social media, posting a picture with Pirapan to demonstrate their solidarity. “The Pheu Thai Party won’t remove the pair. Both are seen as representing the former prime minister, Prayut Chan-o-cha.” Meanwhile, ex-red shirt leader Jatuporn Prompan warned of escalating political tensions this year. He suggested that Pirapan might be replaced by the big boss, referring to Thaksin, due to perceived disunity within the UTN. However, Jatuporn noted that there is still an opportunity for the party to address these issues. Jatuporn also commented on the government’s efforts to dismantle monopolies, which have encountered challenges, raising doubts about the government’s resilience against these powerful influences, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-06

Thailand’s new e-visa system targets African tourists in travel boost By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Toechok The Embassy of Thailand rolled out the e-visa carpet for nine African nations on January 1 in a further bid to boost tourism. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348062-thailand’s-new-e-visa-system-targets-african-tourists-in-travel-boost/

Picture courtesy of Toechok By Bob Scott The Embassy of Thailand rolled out the e-visa carpet for nine African nations on January 1 in a further bid to boost tourism. The popular e-visa programme is designed to bolster security and streamline the application process, as reported by VisaGuide.World. By simplifying the visa procedure, Thailand hopes to lure more visitors, vital for its thriving tourism sector. While Thailand’s tourism is heavily concentrated in major hubs like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, the rest of the country sees far fewer visitors, reported The South African. The Kingdom of Thailand offers a range of visas, including tourist visas, special tourist visas (STV) for long-term stays, and transit visas for quick stopovers. Non-immigrant visas cater to business, work, or educational purposes. These visas are available for single or multiple entries, subject to specific criteria. Applicants must prove their presence in one of the approved countries and provide all travel-related confirmations, including return flight details featuring the applicant’s name, travel dates, and all connecting flights from the country of origin to Thailand. In a statement, the Royal Thai Embassy announced it will no longer accept physical applications from citizens of the e-visa-approved countries. Eligible applicants must now submit their applications online via the embassy’s official website. Typically, visa applications are processed within five working days, although unforeseen delays can occur. So, which African nations made the list? Here are the approved countries, as highlighted by Business Insider: Federal Republic of Nigeria Republic of Benin Republic of Cameroon Republic of Ghana Central African Republic Republic of the Congo Republic of Equatorial Guinea Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe Republic of Chad Thailand’s connection with Africa has grown significantly since the early 2010s, notably through the Look West Policy and the 2013 Thai-Africa Initiative. Kenya and Sudan have emerged as important trade partners in this evolving relationship. With these new e-visa advancements, Thailand is set to further strengthen its ties with the continent, paving the way for more African tourists to explore the Land of Smiles. For any inquiries or support regarding the e-visa process, travellers can reach out via email at [email protected] or call the hotline at +66 (0) 2203-5000. This service is set to open a smoother path for those planning their Thai adventures, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination itself. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-06

31 year old man dies in Isuzu MU-X crash at Sakorn Kasem By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic incident occurred in the early hours of this morning when a 31 year old man driving an Isuzu MU-X crashed into a barrier at the Sakorn Kasem intersection, resulting in his death. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348061-31-year-old-man-dies-in-isuzu-mu-x-crash-at-sakorn-kasem/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee A tragic incident occurred in the early hours of this morning when a 31 year old man driving an Isuzu MU-X crashed into a barrier at the Sakorn Kasem intersection, resulting in his death. The accident took place at 4am today, January 6, with investigators suspecting that the driver might have encountered something unexpected, causing him to brake forcefully but ultimately lose control. Police officer Worawut Piamsamut from Krathum Baen Police Station received a report about the accident beneath the flyover at the Sakorn Kasem intersection, where Phetkasem Road meets Phutthamonthon Sai 4 Road in Om Noi, Krathum Baen district, Samut Sakhon. Upon arrival, alongside medical personnel from Krathum Baen Hospital and volunteers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation, they discovered an Isuzu MU-X registered in Songkhla. The vehicle was positioned across the road at the curve leading from Phetkasem Road to Phutthamonthon Sai 4 Road. Inside the car, they found the driver deceased, identified as 31 year old Thoranin. The forceful braking marks were evident on the road, indicating an encounter with an obstacle, and the front of the vehicle was severely damaged, with the radiator shattered and wheels detached. The barrier in the middle of Phetkasem Road, separating the inbound and outbound lanes to Bangkok, was also broken due to the impact. Initial investigations suggest that the deceased was driving from Phutthasakhon Road, intending to return home in the Nong Khaem area via Phetkasem Road. Instead of crossing the Sakorn Kasem flyover, the driver veered onto the parallel road to make a U-turn on Phetkasem Road. It is suspected that something prompted the driver to brake suddenly, leaving marks on the road, but he was unable to regain control, leading to a fatal collision with the barrier. Eyewitnesses were absent since the driver was alone in the vehicle, having departed from an entertainment venue and headed home. Relatives of the deceased confirmed this but no one witnessed the exact cause of the accident. Police plan to review CCTV footage from the area to determine the precise cause of the incident, reported KhaoSod. Following the initial autopsy, the body was sent to Siriraj Hospital’s forensic institute for further examination. Once completed, the deceased’s body will be returned to the family for religious rites. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-06

Young woman seeks justice after assault at Bang Yai venue By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 22 year old woman has sought assistance from the Nonthaburi governor after being assaulted by a security guard at a well-known entertainment venue in Bang Yai. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348060-young-woman-seeks-justice-after-assault-at-bang-yai-venue/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee A 22 year old woman has sought assistance from the Nonthaburi governor after being assaulted by a security guard at a well-known entertainment venue in Bang Yai. Pawina, known as Mew, along with three friends, visited the Nonthaburi provincial office to meet Governor Kiattisak Trongsiri, seeking justice and expressing distrust in the police investigation. This follows an assault on New Year’s Eve when a security guard attacked her, and her identification card was photographed. Shortly after, gambling websites began contacting her phone, raising fears of data being leaked to criminal groups. “After the assault, online gambling platforms started adding themselves to my phone contacts. This wasn’t an isolated case, as many others who had their IDs photographed faced the same issue,” said Athiwat Sirikangwalwong, founder of the Dare to Step page, who accompanied Pawina. The page has gathered evidence of drug use and unlawful activities at the venue, prompting them to involve the governor. Pawina expressed her reluctance to rely on the police, stating that approaching the governor felt more reassuring. Previously, attempts to address the issue with the police yielded no results, despite numerous patrons reporting similar grievances. “I have a family to protect and feel threatened by social media shaming and continued intimidation.” Governor Kiattisak responded by highlighting that the Bang Yai police have started registering complaints related to the unauthorised photographing of ID cards. He emphasised that businesses must handle personal information responsibly and only collect what is necessary. The governor also stated that the allegations of drug use and extended operating hours at the establishment are being investigated. “We need concrete evidence before any action, like closing the venue, is taken. This prevents any unfair targeting.” Regarding rumours of the establishment’s connection to influential figures, Governor Kiattisak was clear. “There are no untouchables here. Everyone must adhere to the law, regardless of their connections or status. ” Having recently assumed his position, he emphasised his commitment to upholding legal and societal standards in line with government policies, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-06

Sole offender: Thai man nabbed for Bangkok temple shoe theft spree By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เจาะลึกทั่วไทย Inside Thailand Police arrested a Thai man for stealing shoes, some valued as high as 50,000 baht, from multiple temples in Bangkok. The man reportedly committed the thefts not for resale but to satisfy personal urges linked to his mental illness. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348059-sole-offender-thai-man-nabbed-for-bangkok-temple-shoe-theft-spree/

Photo via Facebook/ เจาะลึกทั่วไทย Inside Thailand By Petch Petpailin Police arrested a Thai man for stealing shoes, some valued as high as 50,000 baht, from multiple temples in Bangkok. The man reportedly committed the thefts not for resale but to satisfy personal urges linked to his mental illness. Officers from Samran Rat Police Station investigated the incidents after receiving repeated complaints about shoe thefts from temples across Bangkok. Security footage from one temple identified the thief as a 56 year old man named Surasak, who was previously arrested for a similar offence and was later released in 2022. CCTV footage showed Surasak entering temples and ignoring merit-making activities. Instead, he focused on the shoes left outside the main halls. He would select a pair he liked, put them on, and leave the temple as though they were his own. Police tracked Surasak down on Saturday, January 4, as he walked home. Upon searching his backpack, officers discovered numerous pairs of shoes inside. A subsequent search of his residence revealed over 50 pairs of shoes, ranging in value from a few hundred baht to 50,000 baht, with some being designer brands. Initially, Surasak denied stealing the shoes, claiming he bought them. However, under further questioning, he admitted to the thefts. Surasak explained that he did not steal the shoes for resale but because he had an intense liking for other people’s shoes and collected them to fulfil his obsession. Officers informed Channel 7 that Surasak suffers from a mental health condition that compels him to collect others’ footwear. A review of his phone confirmed that he did not attempt to sell the stolen shoes on any platform. During the investigation, one victim visited Surasak’s home to recover his lost shoes, worth approximately 3,000 baht. He successfully located them among the pile of footwear in the suspect’s room. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-06

Over 436 deaths reported over the new year danger period By Ryan Turner DDPM's meeting to summarise the road safety campaign over the new year period | Photo via DDPM Over the ten-day new year danger period, over 436 road fatalities were reported, primarily due to speeding, with Bangkok recording the highest death toll. In contrast, three provinces noted zero deaths, reflecting varying regional impacts of road safety measures. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348037-ddpm-reports-on-road-safety-during-2024-new-year-festival-campaign/#findComment-19494167

Over 436 deaths reported over the new year danger period By Ryan Turner DDPM's meeting to summarise the road safety campaign over the new year period | Photo via DDPM Over the ten-day new year danger period, over 436 road fatalities were reported, primarily due to speeding, with Bangkok recording the highest death toll. In contrast, three provinces noted zero deaths, reflecting varying regional impacts of road safety measures. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) held a press conference led by Interior Deputy Minister Songsak Thongsri, outlining the results of the road safety campaign during the new year celebrations. The campaign, under the banner Safe Driving, Thailand Free of Accidents, compiled data indicating 139 accidents, resulting in 128 injuries and 29 fatalities on the last day alone. A significant factor contributing to these accidents was speeding, accounting for 34.53% of incidents. Other critical causes included cutting off other vehicles suddenly, at 24.46%, and poor visibility, which contributed to 20.86% of accidents. Motorbikes were notably involved in 82.67% of accidents, highlighting a persistent risk for two-wheeler riders. Prachinburi witnessed the highest number of accidents, totalling eight, while Pattani, Phang Nga, and Phatthalung each reported six injuries. Prachinburi also recorded the highest fatalities, with three deaths. Reflecting on the campaign’s ten-day period from December 27 to January 5, Songsak revealed a total of 2,467 accidents, with 2,376 injuries and 436 deaths. Surat Thani experienced the most accidents, with 89 incidents, and the highest number of injuries, with 100 cases. Bangkok registered the most fatalities, with 26 deaths. Notably, Trat, Yala, and Samut Songkhram reported no fatalities, demonstrating effective local road safety measures. Songsak acknowledged a decrease in accidents and injuries compared to previous new year periods, although fatalities increased. This trend prompted the Road Safety Operations Centre to mandate continuous preventive measures by relevant agencies, focusing on year-round accident risk reduction. Emphasis was placed on a collaborative approach, integrating efforts across all sectors beyond festive periods like new year and Songkran. The strategy involves strict legal enforcement targeting high-risk groups, including children, the elderly, and foreigners, to curb risky driving behaviours such as speeding, drunk driving, and failure to wear seat belts or helmets. Additionally, unsafe practices like sudden lane changes and driving against traffic flow are being addressed, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-06

Waste not, want rot: Cops bust illegal e-waste ring in Samut Sakhon By Bright Choomanee Police uncovered an extensive illegal operation where electronic waste was being unlawfully transported and stored in Samut Sakhon. The discovery is linked to previous activities involving closed factories. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348057-waste-not-want-rot-cops-bust-illegal-e-waste-ring-in-samut-sakhon/

By Bright Choomanee Police uncovered an extensive illegal operation where electronic waste was being unlawfully transported and stored in Samut Sakhon. The discovery is linked to previous activities involving closed factories. Yesterday, January 5, Ekanat Promphan, Minister of Industry, revealed that a team led by Thitiphat Chotedechachainan and Ekaniti Ramyanont, along with local industry officials and the Department of Industrial Works, conducted a raid on C.H.H. Recycle Co., Ltd. in Samut Sakhon. The operation was supported by Aphisan Chairat, from the police division responsible for natural resources and environmental crime suppression. During the inspection, police found over 1,200 tonnes of unauthorised hazardous electronic waste. Additionally, power supply units for electronic devices lacked the mandatory product standard mark, indicating further regulatory violations. The illegal activities were traced back to T&T Waste Management 2017 Co., Ltd. in Prachinburi, a factory previously shut down by the Ministry of Industry in September last year for violating the Factory Act of 1992. Ekanat stated that the Samut Sakhon Provincial Industry Office invoked Section 37 of the Factory Act, ordering C.H.H. Recycle to cease operations and seize all evidence. The company now faces several charges for violating the Factory Act, including operating a Type 3 factory without permission, which carries a penalty of up to two years imprisonment or a fine of up to 200,000 baht (US$5,795), or both. Other charges include unauthorised modification of machinery, punishable by a fine of up to 20,000 baht (US$580), and possession of hazardous materials without permission, which could also result in up to two years imprisonment or a fine of up to 200,000 baht (US$5,795). Electronic waste Additionally, the company faces penalties for power supply units lacking the product standard mark, which could lead to up to six months in prison or a fine of up to 500,000 baht (US$14,495), or both. Officers also plan to charge individuals involved in the illegal transportation and disposal of seized goods, with penalties starting at two years imprisonment and fines from 40,000 baht (US$1,160). Thitiphat added that the operation followed an incident on January 4, when a truck from C.H.H. Recycle Co., Ltd. spilled cargo on the road, prompting an investigation. The investigation revealed that the cargo originated from Huatai Chenghe Co., Ltd. in Si Maha Phot, Prachinburi, a factory also facing legal action for unauthorised operations and with goods under seizure orders by the Prachinburi Provincial Industry Office. The truck drivers, employed by a logistics contractor, were contacted via a group chat for truck operators to transport goods from Huatai Chenghe. They were hired to move the goods using two flatbed trailer trucks to C.H.H. Recycle Co., Ltd, reported KhaoSod. Following these findings, Ekanat instructed the investigative team to extend their probe, resulting in the discovery of further illegal activities at C.H.H. Recycle Co., Ltd. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-06