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Deputy PM rolls dice on Thaksin’s bold online gambling bet By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Amarin TV Prasert Chantrawongthong, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society, has weighed in on ex-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s bold proposal to legalise online gambling. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348056-deputy-pm-rolls-dice-on-thaksin’s-bold-online-gambling-bet/

Picture courtesy of Amarin TV By Bob Scott Prasert Chantrawongthong, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society, has weighed in on ex-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s bold proposal to legalise online gambling. The 74 year old former prime minister recently sparked controversy by suggesting that bringing online betting into the open could help tackle the widespread social issues associated with the industry. Known to be a notorious haven for illegal activities such as mule accounts and call centre scams, online gambling is a growing concern, especially among young people and the general public. Prasert argued that by legalising it, the government could enforce regulations and gain greater oversight over this murky market. He also noted the potential economic benefits, particularly through tax revenues. However, the 64 year old deputy PM admitted that implementing such a change would require legal amendments. The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society is currently examining the necessary steps to recommend a proper framework for this initiative. Addressing Thaksin’s eyebrow-raising suggestion that players under 20 be banned and those over 20 be sent for mental evaluation, Prasert explained that this matter hasn’t been discussed by the working group yet. Amarin TV reported that he acknowledged that Thaksin is likely inspired by international examples but remained cautious about their applicability in Thailand, especially since many servers are located overseas, complicating the issue further. When queried on whether Thaksin had offered any guidance on resolving these challenges, Prasert clarified that the ministry regularly convenes meetings focused on tackling various online crimes, emphasising the need for input from multiple agencies before deciding on a course of action. As for when this ambitious overhaul might be realised, Prasert candidly admitted that achieving it this year is unlikely, but assured that efforts to move forward with this initiative are underway and will proceed with urgency. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-06

Drunk tourist clashes with Phuket bikers over massage ride By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 8 A drunken tourist attacked three Thai app-based motorcycle taxi riders in Phuket, allegedly because he wanted a lift to a massage parlour. However, the riders declined to serve him, citing that they were fully booked. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348055-drunk-tourist-clashes-with-phuket-bikers-over-massage-ride/

Photo via Channel 8 By Petch Petpailin A drunken tourist attacked three Thai app-based motorcycle taxi riders in Phuket, allegedly because he wanted a lift to a massage parlour. However, the riders declined to serve him, citing that they were fully booked. Several news agencies shared a video of the foreign man attacking three Thai men on a footpath yesterday, 5 January. In the video, the foreigner, wearing black shorts and a white T-shirt, was seen shouting and hitting each Thai man. The foreign man continued his rampage, ignoring women and children who walked past. The three men attempted to restrain him but they were unable to match his strength. One of the victims, Arthit, told ThaiRath in an interview that he and his two friends parked their motorcycles at the scene while waiting for their passengers. The foreigner approached from Karon Beach, making loud noises that Arthit could not understand. The foreign man then approached Arthit to request a ride to a massage parlour. However, Arthit and his friends refused to serve him because they were all fully booked.

Lucky day: Man celebrates 6 million baht lottery win in Nong Khai By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A wave of excitement swept through a household in Nong Khai province when a young woman shared the news of her uncle’s lottery win. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347847-lucky-day-man-celebrates-6-million-baht-lottery-win-in-nong-khai/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A wave of excitement swept through a household in Nong Khai province when a young woman shared the news of her uncle’s lottery win. The Thai government announced the results of the national lottery yesterday, January 2, revealing the winning number 730209 for the first prize. A resident of Nong Khai province, identified only through her Facebook account Mod Modtanoi, shared a photo of the winning ticket, which fetched a 6 million baht prize. Adding a personal touch to her online announcement, she wrote, “The first prize is here in Nong Khai #myuncle #unclewon.” This revelation led to an outpouring of congratulations from friends, family, and strangers, all eager to celebrate the family’s newfound fortune. The winning numbers for the draw included not only the first prize number 730209 but also a two-digit number 51 for one of the lesser prizes. The announcement of these numbers is a much-anticipated event in Thailand, with many eagerly awaiting to see if their chosen numbers have brought them luck. The social media post quickly gained traction, as the community rallied to express their joy and support for the latest addition to the roster of local millionaires, reported KhaoSod. While the identity of the lucky man remains undisclosed, the narrative surrounding his win underscores the excitement and hope that lottery draws continue to inspire across the nation. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-03

Burmese man stabs Thai colleague to death in wage dispute - video By Petch Petpailin Photo via Amarin TV A Burmese man stabbed a Thai colleague to death and fled the scene in the central province of Nakhon Pathom allegedly over a wage dispute. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347846-burmese-man-stabs-thai-colleague-to-death-in-wage-dispute-video/

Photo via Amarin TV By Petch Petpailin A Burmese man stabbed a Thai colleague to death and fled the scene in the central province of Nakhon Pathom allegedly over a wage dispute. On New Year’s Day, January 1, an owner of a rented property in the Sam Khwai Phuak district of Nakhon Pathom alerted rescue services to assist a 43 year old Thai tenant, Ekkaluck. The man sustained a stab wound to his chest but tragically succumbed to his injuries before help arrived. Ekkaluck’s body was discovered outside his rented room, number 6. He usually resided there with his son and a Burmese colleague named Win. However, his son travelled to their home province for the new year holiday. Officers from Sam Khwai Phuak Police Station later arrived at the scene and interviewed neighbours. Witnesses identified the alleged perpetrator as Ekkaluck’s Burmese roommate, Win, who reportedly fled with his belongings after the fatal incident. Neighbours recounted that Ekkaluck and Win had been drinking alcohol together outside their room from 5pm until a heated argument erupted at around 8.40pm. The dispute was said to have been over unequal wages between Thai and Burmese workers. CCTV footage captured outside their room reportedly shows Ekkaluck threatening Win with a kitchen knife, only for Win to retaliate, stabbing Ekkaluck with the same knife. The footage also shows Win leaving the scene with a black backpack. Neighbours further revealed that the two men had frequent arguments, some of which escalated to the point of police intervention. A colleague of the two men, Sakchai, later spoke to Amarin TV about the altercation. Sakchai claimed that wages were paid following Thai labour laws, although he was unsure of Win’s specific earnings. Sakchai added that Win had only been working for about a month and often requested time off or advance payments from their employer. This made Win argue with the employer. Sakchai described Win as having an aggressive temperament, particularly when intoxicated, and admitted to warning Ekkaluck to keep his distance from Win, fearing potential violence. Sakchai lamented that his fears had ultimately come true. Win remains at large. Police believe he is still hiding within the province. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-03

Thai teenagers attack couple with knife at Pathum Thani mall By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Social Hunter 2022 Police in Pathum Thani pledged to bring three teenagers to justice after they conspired to attack a couple with a knife at a shopping mall on December 31, last year. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347845-thai-teenagers-attack-couple-with-knife-at-pathum-thani-mall/

Photo via Facebook/ Social Hunter 2022 By Petch Petpailin Police in Pathum Thani pledged to bring three teenagers to justice after they conspired to attack a couple with a knife at a shopping mall on December 31, last year. The story came to public attention when the Facebook page Social Hunter 2022 posted images of the injured couple and the altercation on January 2. The victims later recounted the harrowing incident in an interview with Channel 3. According to their testimony, three teenagers were present at the scene, but only two approached them. The attackers accused the male victim of being someone they were searching for. Despite the couple’s denial, the teenagers insisted they were lying and demanded to check their mobile phones. The couple refused, escalating the situation. The female victim revealed that one of the teenagers slapped her and her boyfriend, and she retaliated by slapping the attacker. Another teenager then brandished a knife and attempted to stab her in the stomach. Although she managed to evade a fatal blow, she sustained two cuts to her arms. The attackers then turned on her boyfriend, who fled the scene to escape harm. The assailants chased him down and repeatedly kicked and punched him in the middle of the shopping mall. Witnesses eventually intervened, causing the attackers and their third accomplice, who had been observing from a distance, to flee the scene. The victims received medical attention for their injuries and have since called for all three suspects to be held accountable. Police later identified the two attackers as teenagers aged 15 and 19. Their names have not been disclosed due to child protection laws. The mother of the 19 year old suspect spoke to Channel 3, admitting her son’s involvement but defending his character. The mother described her son as a good boy who was negatively influenced by his 15 year old friend. She claimed to be worried about her son’s mental state and encouraged him to travel and rest before surrendering to the police. She also expressed a willingness to cover compensation for the victims. As of now, none of the suspects have turned themselves in. The couple urged police to expedite the investigation and identified the third accomplice, who they believe directed the attack. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-03

Couple's Beachfront Frolic in Pattaya Sparks Outrage Online Photo: The Pattaya News A scandalous scene unfolded at Pattaya Beach on January 3rd, 2025, as a video surfaced on Thai social media, capturing an unidentified couple openly engaging in intimate acts amidst sunbathing tourists. The clip quickly went viral, leaving social media abuzz with heated discussions. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347844-couples-beachfront-frolic-in-pattaya-sparks-outrage-online/

Photo: The Pattaya News A scandalous scene unfolded at Pattaya Beach on January 3rd, 2025, as a video surfaced on Thai social media, capturing an unidentified couple openly engaging in intimate acts amidst sunbathing tourists. The clip quickly went viral, leaving social media abuzz with heated discussions. The couple appeared wholly absorbed in their interaction, reportedly undeterred by the proximity of other beachgoers and even the nearby Pattaya Police Station. Observers on the beach were taken aback, with many expressing shock and disbelief at the public display. Online reactions have been mixed; some viewers ridiculed the audacious behaviour, while others urged local authorities to investigate the incident. This occurrence has raised questions about public decency laws in Thailand and the enforcement efforts in tourist-heavy areas like Pattaya Beach. Local authorities have yet to comment on potential actions, though there is a growing call for stricter monitoring. As the video continues to circulate, the incident remains a topic of considerable debate, highlighting the dynamic tensions between tourism, public behaviour, and cultural norms in this vibrant seaside city, reported The Pattaya News. -- 2025-01-03

Firework Incident on Pattaya Beach Sparks Legal Action File photo for reference only A serious firework mishap on Jomtien Beach, Pattaya, has prompted urgent legal action by city officials. The incident occurred during New Year’s Eve celebrations, when a firework, illegally set off by tourists, injured a seven-year-old girl from Bangkok. The child, who attended the event with her family, sustained burns to her abdomen and required immediate hospital treatment before returning to Bangkok. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347843-firework-incident-on-pattaya-beach-sparks-legal-action/

File photo for reference only A serious firework mishap on Jomtien Beach, Pattaya, has prompted urgent legal action by city officials. The incident occurred during New Year’s Eve celebrations, when a firework, illegally set off by tourists, injured a seven-year-old girl from Bangkok. The child, who attended the event with her family, sustained burns to her abdomen and required immediate hospital treatment before returning to Bangkok. Video footage captured the moment as the firework exploded near the girl, damaging her clothing and causing distress. Her father, Chakrawut Kerdsook, released an appeal on social media for witnesses to come forward with any video evidence or information that could aid in identifying those responsible. In response to the incident, Pattaya City's Deputy Mayor, Manot Nongyai, confirmed they are working with officials from Bang Lamung District to investigate and apprehend the individuals behind the fireworks display. Manot assured the public that accountability measures will be enforced, including compensation for the young victim. The Deputy Mayor reiterated that setting off fireworks in public areas without proper authorization remains illegal, stressing the significant dangers involved. He urged both residents and visitors to adhere strictly to safety regulations and report any illegal activities. Authorities are committed to enhancing safety measures to preserve Pattaya’s standing as a prominent tourist hotspot, ensuring such incidents do not recur. -- 2025-01-03

Thai Embassy Vows Support After Muan Airport Tragedy Claims 179 Photo: The Pattaya News In a tragic incident at Muan International Airport, South Korea, a Jeju Air crash resulted in the deaths of 179 passengers, including two Thai nationals. The Royal Thai Embassy in Seoul pledged unwavering support to the bereaved families of the Thai victims, amidst profound sorrow following the disaster. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347841-thai-embassy-vows-support-after-muan-airport-tragedy-claims-179/

Photo: The Pattaya News In a tragic incident at Muan International Airport, South Korea, a Jeju Air crash resulted in the deaths of 179 passengers, including two Thai nationals. The Royal Thai Embassy in Seoul pledged unwavering support to the bereaved families of the Thai victims, amidst profound sorrow following the disaster. Ambassador Tanee Sangrat of Thailand expressed his deepest condolences and confirmed ongoing assistance. The Embassy is collaborating with Korean authorities and Jeju Air officials, who have committed to covering all costs related to damages and compensation for the victims. The crash occurred when the Boeing 737-800 made an emergency belly landing due to a critical landing gear failure, tragically resulting in a collision with a runway wall. The fuselage rupture led to a devastating fire. Identified among the victims are a 45-year-old woman and a 22-year-old student from Bangkok. The Royal Thai Embassy in Seoul has lowered the national flag for seven days in mourning. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has directed immediate support for the affected families, while South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul offered condolences via social media. Both nations are engaged in coordinated efforts to support the victims' families during this distressing period, reported The Pattaya News. -- 2025-01-03

Marriage Equality Act: Nationwide Implementation from January 23rd File photo for reference only As of January 23rd, same-sex couples across the country can register their marriages at any district office, following the enactment of the long-awaited Marriage Equality Act. The announcement was made today by Traisuree Traisoranakul, spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior, underlining a major step towards equal rights for all citizens. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347839-marriage-equality-act-nationwide-implementation-from-january-23rd/

File photo for reference only As of January 23rd, same-sex couples across the country can register their marriages at any district office, following the enactment of the long-awaited Marriage Equality Act. The announcement was made today by Traisuree Traisoranakul, spokesperson for the Ministry of Interior, underlining a major step towards equal rights for all citizens. The Interior Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, has mandated the Provincial Administration Department to ensure that all necessary measures are in place to facilitate this new development. This includes providing comprehensive support to same-sex couples keen on registering their partnerships. With the new act, both partners entering a same-sex marriage must be at least 18 years old. Exceptions apply to minors, who must be accompanied by parental consent and a court order. The law clearly states that partners must not have any shared biological parents, nor should they currently be married to others. Additionally, step-parents are prohibited from marrying their stepchildren. For women who have been previously married, a 310-day wait period is required before remarrying if widowed or divorced, barring a court’s permission or proof of non-pregnancy. Prospective couples need to present their identification documents or equivalent proof from a government source, alongside household registration records. Foreign partners are required to produce their passports and embassy-verified status confirmations. The registration process incurs a fee of 200 baht. This legislative change signifies a historic advancement in the rights afforded to same-sex couples, marking a notable shift towards inclusivity and equality. -- 2025-01-03

Thai man prevents disaster after dog mistakes bomb for toy By Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon and Channel 7 A pet dog mistook a bomb for a toy, brought it back to her family home in the Isaan province of Udon Thani, and gave it to a four year old boy. Fortunately, the boy showed it to his father before it could explode and cause a tragedy. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347838-thai-man-prevents-disaster-after-dog-mistakes-bomb-for-toy/

Photo via Matichon and Channel 7 By Petch Petpailin A pet dog mistook a bomb for a toy, brought it back to her family home in the Isaan province of Udon Thani, and gave it to a four year old boy. Fortunately, the boy showed it to his father before it could explode and cause a tragedy. Officers from Non Sung Police Station were called to investigate the bomb at a house in the Non Sung sub-district, Mueang district, Udon Thani, yesterday, December 2. The two-storey house belonged to 34 year old Sergeant Major First Class Jittakorn Talaengjit. Jittakorn led police officers to the bomb in his house. For safety, he placed it in a cardboard box filled with dry grass, which he surrounded with car tyres. The device was roughly the size of a tennis ball. An officer from the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit later arrived and carefully collected the bomb for safe disposal away from the community. The EOD officer reported that the device was a homemade bomb, suspected to have been crafted by a group of teenagers in the area. These teenagers often carried such bombs to use during clashes with their other gang rivals. In this instance, it is suspected that a gang may have discarded the bomb by the roadside when being searched by the police. According to the officer, while the bomb was not as powerful as military-grade explosives, it was still capable of causing fatalities. The public was warned not to attempt to destroy such devices without specialist assistance. When asked how the bomb ended up in his home, Jittakorn revealed that his four year old son, Krit, had been playing outside the house and brought the bomb to him, asking what it was. The sight of the bomb in his son’s hands shocked Jittakorn, who immediately took it from the boy. Krit told his father that their nine year old pet dog, Latte, brought the object to him. Jittakorn said he could not blame Latte, a Labrador and Golden Retriever mix, as she adored playing with balls and likely thought the bomb was a new toy for Krit. Fortunately, Krit had not thrown the bomb. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-03

Concert ends on sour note in Sakon Nakhon, 1 critically injured By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A violent altercation occurred at a concert in Sakon Nakhon province, resulting in one person being severely injured and five others suffering minor injuries. The suspect was taken into custody following the incident. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347837-concert-ends-on-sour-note-in-sakon-nakhon-1-critically-injured/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A violent altercation occurred at a concert in Sakon Nakhon province, resulting in one person being severely injured and five others suffering minor injuries. The suspect was taken into custody following the incident. The suspect, identified only by his nickname Tum, was apprehended after he allegedly attacked concert-goers near the stage, leaving behind a trail of injuries. The arrest took place at the Phanna Nikhom Police Station, where Tum appeared visibly disoriented, with a swollen face and a head injury. Speaking incoherently, he claimed he was under the impression that someone was trying to kill him, which prompted his aggressive actions. Police confirmed that Tum was administered pain relief medication following his capture by locals. “The incident has led to five individuals filing complaints of physical harm.” Tum is currently being held pending sobriety before further questioning. It was revealed that he had consumed alcohol and drugs and was recently released from prison for assaulting a police officer. Tests confirmed the presence of drugs in his system, and his history of drug abuse and interrupted treatment has been recorded. Attention is now focused on Somchai, the critically injured individual, who remains in the intensive care unit at Sakhon Nakhon Hospital. He is sustained by a life support machine and his family is anxiously awaiting updates. If Somchai’s condition worsens or results in a fatality, the charges against Tum could be escalated. Furthermore, if Somchai is confirmed as a legally appointed assistant officer, additional charges for assaulting an officer may be filed. Family members were gathered at the hospital by 2.30pm, hoping for Somchai’s recovery. His sister, Lamduan, expressed shock over the incident, stating that she would assume responsibility for his two young children, aged 10 and 11, should anything happen to him. Lamduan shared that Somchai was known for his good nature and had no prior conflicts with Tum, reported KhaoSod. Neighbour Don stated that Somchai, a beloved community figure known for his volunteer spirit and active participation in village events, had always been willing to lend a helping hand. The community is deeply saddened by the events and the impact on such a cherished member. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-03

Foreign men attack Phuket taxi driver over fare dispute - video By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เหยี่ยวข่าว ภูเก็ต Newshawk Phuket A viral video showed two foreign men attacking a Thai taxi driver outside a supermarket in Phuket, allegedly over a fare dispute. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347836-foreign-men-attack-phuket-taxi-driver-over-fare-dispute-video/

Photo via Facebook/ เหยี่ยวข่าว ภูเก็ต Newshawk Phuket By Petch Petpailin A viral video showed two foreign men attacking a Thai taxi driver outside a supermarket in Phuket, allegedly over a fare dispute. Several Facebook news pages in Phuket shared the video of the physical assault today, December 3. In the video, one of the two foreign men, both wearing white T-shirts, is seen kicking the taxi driver, who was standing next to his red-and-yellow taxi. The two foreigners immediately walked away from the scene after the attack but continued to complain to the driver in their native language. The driver was heard speaking with witnesses at the scene… “They refused to pay the fare. They gave me only 50 baht.” Witnesses and a person who recorded the video suggested the taxi driver report the matter to the police. They also expressed their disapproval of the foreigners’ violent actions. The news Facebook page, Phuket Hotnews, reported that the incident occurred outside a supermarket on Thep Kasattri Road in the Thalang district of Phuket. The news agency then questioned officers at Thalang Police Station for further details. According to the police, the taxi driver did not file a complaint with them initially, but they summoned him to the station for questioning after the video circulated on Thai social media. The taxi driver told police that the two foreigners had booked his service through the Bolt app. They travelled from Patong to their accommodation in Thalang, with the fare being 570 baht. However, the two foreigners had only 200 baht in cash and requested to pay the remainder in foreign currency. The taxi driver refused the foreign cash, and the foreigners asked him to take them to a supermarket for a currency exchange, to which the taxi driver agreed. After the exchange, the driver requested an additional 200 baht for the trip to the supermarket. The foreigners refused to pay and argued with the driver before the physical assault occurred. The driver insisted that he would not take any legal action against the two foreigners. Following the release of further details, opinions among Thai netizens were divided. Some urged the taxi driver to take legal action against the foreigners, while others sided with the foreigners, suggesting that the driver might not have informed them about the additional fare for the supermarket trip. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-03

Good fortune: PM Paetongtarn’s assets exceed 13 billion baht By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has disclosed a detailed account of the assets and liabilities of Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, marking her ascension into office. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347835-good-fortune-pm-paetongtarn’s-assets-exceed-13-billion-baht/