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Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ By Petch Petpailin Police arrested a Russian man who went on a violent rampage at a hotel in the Choeng Thale area of Phuket, physically assaulting other hotel guests and Thai police officers. Officers from Choeng Thale Police Station were called to the hotel to contain the situation after the Russian man, identified only as Sharapov, attacked other guests with a knife. Fortunately, the victim reportedly suffered only minor injuries. When police arrived at the scene, they attempted to persuade Sharapov to surrender, but he refused. Sharapov continued to cause chaos, brandishing the knife at anyone who approached him. Police officers were attacked but their conditions were not revealed. Police were ultimately forced to use physical measures to subdue the suspect. A photograph shared by the Phuket Times shows that Sharapov sustained injuries, including wounds to his mouth and hands, as well as bloodstains on his legs and arms. Sharapov was taken to Thalang Hospital for treatment and will later be transferred to Choeng Thale Police Station for further legal proceedings. The charges and penalties against Sharapov have not yet been officially disclosed. However, in a similar case, anyone causing public disturbances are often charged under Section 378 of the Criminal Law, which carries a fine of up to 5,000 baht. Additionally, as Sharapov caused physical injury to another person, he could face up to two years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both. Police have not yet confirmed the motive behind Sharapov’s rampage. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-30

Thai Minibus Driver Arrested for Rape After Passenger's Complaint Photo: The Thaiger A minibus driver in Thailand, 36-year-old Montri, was arrested today after allegedly raping a 19-year-old passenger during a trip from Bangkok to the Isaan province of Surin. The victim's mother reported the assault, which occurred at Montri's home at around 4 a.m. on December 21. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347536-thai-minibus-driver-arrested-for-rape-after-passengers-complaint/

Photo: The Thaiger A minibus driver in Thailand, 36-year-old Montri, was arrested today after allegedly raping a 19-year-old passenger during a trip from Bangkok to the Isaan province of Surin. The victim's mother reported the assault, which occurred at Montri's home at around 4 a.m. on December 21. The victim was the last passenger dropped off, allegedly taken to Montri's home against her will, and assaulted after being physically attacked. Montri reportedly took explicit photos to threaten her silence. Despite the victim's mother's complaint, the case stalled, prompting her to reach out to media for help. Montri denied the rape on social media, claiming the interaction was consensual. However, the case gained attention on Thai social media, leading to intervention by Surin Provincial Police Commander Sukhon Sriarun and Montri's arrest. Charged with sexual assault, Montri faces up to 10 years in prison or a 200,000 baht fine under Thai law. Another woman from Samut Prakan, who claims she was also raped by Montri, emerged as a potential victim and is now assisting in the investigation. -- 2024-12-30

Bangkok Taxi Driver Accused of Drugging and Robbing Woman File photo for reference only A 47-year-old Thai tour guide, Angkana "Oil" Rungpaisarn, claims she was drugged and robbed by a taxi driver during a late-night ride in Bangkok on December 26. After a night out drinking with friends at a bar on Soi Sukhumvit 11, Oil woke up injured and without her valuables on the roadside near Soi Sukhumvit 81. The amount stolen has not been disclosed. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347535-bangkok-taxi-driver-accused-of-drugging-and-robbing-woman/

File photo for reference only A 47-year-old Thai tour guide, Angkana "Oil" Rungpaisarn, claims she was drugged and robbed by a taxi driver during a late-night ride in Bangkok on December 26. After a night out drinking with friends at a bar on Soi Sukhumvit 11, Oil woke up injured and without her valuables on the roadside near Soi Sukhumvit 81. The amount stolen has not been disclosed. Unable to recall the taxi ride, Oil suspects the driver drugged her. However, her attempts to report the crime at Phra Kanong and Lumpini police stations were unsuccessful, leading her to seek help from non-profit organization Saimai Survive. Motorcycle taxi rider Somphon Khemphet, who found Oil the following morning, noticed wounds on her face. Oil refused medical treatment and instead asked Somphon to take her to her condo, complaining of a severe headache. He suspected she might have been sexually assaulted. Ekkaphop Lueangprasert, founder of Saimai Survive, assisted Oil in involving the Metropolitan Police Bureau after local police dismissed her case. Investigators traced Oil's phone signal to Suea Pa Market, suggesting the thief may have sold it. Security footage is being reviewed, and the taxi driver remains under suspicion. He will be called in if evidence shows the drive took longer than 20 minutes. -- 2024-12-30

Thailand's EXPRESSWAY Authority to Enforce Tougher Penalties on Unpaid Tolls File photo for reference only Starting January 1, 2025, Thailand's Expressway Authority (EXAT) will impose stricter penalties for unpaid tolls. If a driver doesn't pay a toll, they could face fines up to ten times the toll fee, capped at 2,000 baht per event. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347533-thailands-expressway-authority-to-enforce-tougher-penalties-on-unpaid-tolls/

File photo for reference only Starting January 1, 2025, Thailand's Expressway Authority (EXAT) will impose stricter penalties for unpaid tolls. If a driver doesn't pay a toll, they could face fines up to ten times the toll fee, capped at 2,000 baht per event. This change stems from the enforcement of the EXAT Act of 2007, Section 63, which aims to reduce toll evasion and ensure compliance. The process begins with a notification to offenders asking for payment of the overdue toll. If payment is not received by the deadline, a notice of infraction will be issued within thirty days. This notice requires payment of the unpaid toll plus an administrative fine, up to ten times the toll fee but not surpassing 2,000 baht per incident. Failing to respond leads to an administrative fine within the same limits. Payments can be made at designated areas or the One Stop Service Center at the EXAT Administrative Center, located on Rim Khlong Bang Kapi Road, Huai Khwang, Bangkok. The service center is open weekdays from 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM. For more information, EXAT can be reached at 02 558 9800, extensions 10700 to 10709. Drivers are urged to keep their Easy Pass accounts funded and can contact the 24-hour EXAT Call Center at 1543 for assistance. -- 2024-12-30

Five killed in Prachinburi factory concrete slab collapse By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic incident unfolded in Prachinburi province when a concrete slab collapsed in a factory located in the 304 Industrial Park, resulting in the loss of five lives with no survivors. The collapse occurred today, December 30, causing widespread alarm among workers and residents in the area. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347532-five-killed-in-prachinburi-factory-concrete-slab-collapse/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee A tragic incident unfolded in Prachinburi province when a concrete slab collapsed in a factory located in the 304 Industrial Park, resulting in the loss of five lives with no survivors. The collapse occurred today, December 30, causing widespread alarm among workers and residents in the area. Rescue teams and relevant officials swiftly arrived on the scene to assess the situation. Upon inspection, they discovered that the mezzanine floor, supported by large concrete slabs and steel columns, had given way. The immediate response involved clearing the area of unauthorised personnel to allow emergency services to perform their duties efficiently. Initial reports indicated that five individuals were trapped inside the factory. Efforts to rescue them were underway when the gravity of the situation became clear. A report from the NAKON45 Anuwat Phoampai page confirmed the tragic outcome: “Five people have been confirmed dead after the concrete slab collapsed in the 304 Industrial Park factory. Our condolences to the families.” Emergency personnel worked tirelessly to cordon off the area and ensure the safety of others while coordinating with rescue vehicles and emergency teams to probe the cause of the collapse, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-30

Young man arrested in Bangkok with modified gun after police chase By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A young man found himself in hot water after leading police on a chase, ultimately being apprehended with a firearm in his possession. The incident occurred today, December 30, when officers from Bang Khen Police Station, led by Anan Warasart, apprehended 20 year old Tawan in the Ram Inthra 5 area of Bangkok. Tawan was found with a modified blank gun and .380 calibre ammunition, resulting in charges of illegal possession and carrying of a firearm. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347531-young-man-arrested-in-bangkok-with-modified-gun-after-police-chase/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee A young man found himself in hot water after leading police on a chase, ultimately being apprehended with a firearm in his possession. The incident occurred today, December 30, when officers from Bang Khen Police Station, led by Anan Warasart, apprehended 20 year old Tawan in the Ram Inthra 5 area of Bangkok. Tawan was found with a modified blank gun and .380 calibre ammunition, resulting in charges of illegal possession and carrying of a firearm. The series of events began as Bang Khen police were conducting routine patrols in the Phahonyothin 48 area. Officers noticed Tawan displaying suspicious behaviour while riding his motorcycle, prompting them to attempt an approach. However, Tawan, upon noticing the police, accelerated to flee the scene. A pursuit ensued, ending in his capture at Soi Ram Inthra 5, Intersection 3. Upon searching the motorcycle, a Honda Wave 110i, officers discovered the modified blank gun capable of firing live ammunition, along with seven rounds of .380 calibre bullets hidden under the seat. The firearm and ammunition were immediately seized as evidence, reported KhaoSod. Tawan admitted to owning the weapon, stating he had purchased it from a friend and later modified it for personal protection. He claimed his intention was only self-defence. However, police charged him with possession of a firearm without a permit and carrying a firearm in public without authorisation. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-30

NACC denies lobbying claims in Thaksin hospital case investigation By Ryan Turner Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, left, with, his daughter Paetongtarn | Photo via AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) firmly denies any lobbying efforts aimed at altering the commissioner overseeing the investigation into former premier Thaksin Shinawatra’s detention at a police hospital. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347530-nacc-denies-lobbying-claims-in-thaksin-hospital-case-investigation/

Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, left, with, his daughter Paetongtarn | Photo via AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit By Ryan Turner The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) firmly denies any lobbying efforts aimed at altering the commissioner overseeing the investigation into former premier Thaksin Shinawatra’s detention at a police hospital. Sarote Phuengramphan, the NACC secretary-general and spokesperson, refuted claims of lobbying to replace the commissioner. These allegations were brought forth by activist and former red-shirt leader Jatuporn Prompan during a Facebook live session yesterday, December 29. Jatuporn asserted that attempts were made to pressure Ekkawit Watchawanku into relinquishing his role as the commissioner handling the Thaksin hospital detention case. Sarote clarified that the NACC has embraced the case for investigation, ensuring that the full panel of commissioners is supervising the process. Earlier this month, the NACC decided to investigate allegations against officials accused of facilitating Thaksin’s stay at the Police General Hospital (PGH) in lieu of prison confinement. Thaksin, initially sentenced to eight years across three cases, received royal clemency, reducing his sentence to one year. He spent his detention period on the 14th floor of the hospital for approximately six months and was paroled on February 18, completing his term on August 31. The commission’s inquiry responds to accusations that Department of Corrections and hospital officials arranged for Thaksin’s hospital stay to circumvent prison time. Despite spending 180 days at PGH, Thaksin was believed not to be gravely ill. The NACC stated that sufficient facts, witnesses, and evidence have been gathered to justify proceeding with the investigation, targeting 12 officials from the Department of Corrections and PGH. Jatuporn, during his Facebook session, suggested that Ekkawit faced lobbying pressures to step aside, potentially originating from within the commission. He noted that as a former Supreme Court chief justice, Ekkawit’s significant role in the investigation naturally made him a target for such pressures. While replacing the commissioner might not terminate the case, it could result in delays, according to Jatuporn. He emphasised that the decision to succumb to this pressure ultimately lies with Ekkawit. “My message to NACC is simply this. The country had endured enough tribulations. The agency must recognise that there are no secrets in the world.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-30

1 million baht to compensate families of Khao San Road hotel fire victims By Petch Petpailin Photo via One 31 The Ministry of Tourism and Sports plans to compensate the families of those who died in a fire at a hotel near Khao San Road in Bangkok with 1 million baht each. Injured victims are expected to receive 500,000 baht each. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347470-hotel-fire-near-khao-san-road-leaves-3-dead-many-rescued-from-roof/page/2/#findComment-19480363

1 million baht to compensate families of Khao San Road hotel fire victims Photo via One 31 By Petch Petpailin The Ministry of Tourism and Sports plans to compensate the families of those who died in a fire at a hotel near Khao San Road in Bangkok with 1 million baht each. Injured victims are expected to receive 500,000 baht each. Three deaths and seven injuries were reported in the fire, which broke out at The Ember Hotel in the Khao San Road area of Bangkok last night, December 29. Most of the injured victims are still receiving treatment at various hospitals across Bangkok. At the time of the incident, 75 guests were at the hotel, 39 of whom were on the fifth floor, where the blaze began. Reports indicate that the fire originated in room 511, where three South Korean men were staying. The three South Korean nationals were not in the room when the fire broke out. The cause of the fire has not yet been disclosed. In room 511, officers discovered the body of a Brazilian woman whose identity had not been revealed to the public. She had been staying with her fiancé in the nearby room 502 and initially escaped the fire with him. Tragically, they became separated due to thick smoke. Marriage plan ends in tragedy Officials suspect that the Brazilian woman mistakenly thought the open door to room 511 was a fire exit and entered the room, where she was trapped and burned to death. The couple had recently become engaged and were planning to marry soon. The Brazilian man survived the incident. The other two deceased were identified as an American man and a Ukrainian man, both of whom reportedly died in hospital from smoke inhalation. The seven injured victims were identified as one Chinese national, two Germans, one Japanese national, two Thais, and one unidentified woman. This afternoon, December 30, the Ministry of Tourism and Sports announced its intention to compensate the families of the deceased foreign nationals with 1 million baht each and the injured foreign nationals with 500,000 baht each. There has been no confirmation regarding whether the injured Thai nationals will receive the same amount of compensation. Survivor tells story One survivor, 34 year old American national Jeff Johnson, told One 31 news agency that he arrived in Thailand two weeks ago and was staying on the fourth floor of the hotel with a friend. Johnson smelled smoke, which he initially thought was from a cigarette. However, the smoke became thicker, prompting him to check outside his room, where he encountered chaos. He decided to go upstairs and wait for help on the rooftop. Johnson expressed appreciation for the swift response of Thai officials and stated that he was not afraid to continue his trip. He regarded the incident as an accident and commended the efficiency of the Thai emergency response. Currently, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is working to provide accommodation and facilities for the survivors. Officials are also surveying each victim’s needs to provide appropriate assistance. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-30

Thai ‘wizard’ halts ritual after viral couple intercourse chanting video By Petch Petpailin Photo via Amarin TV A Thai “wizard” in the Isaan province of Udon Thani ended an explicit ritual after a video of him chanting in front of a foreign couple during sexual activity went viral on Thai social media. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347329-thai-‘wizard’-halts-ritual-after-viral-couple-intercourse-chanting-video/

Photo via Amarin TV By Petch Petpailin A Thai “wizard” in the Isaan province of Udon Thani ended an explicit ritual after a video of him chanting in front of a foreign couple during sexual activity went viral on Thai social media. The ritual came to public attention after the Facebook page Esor News shared details on Wednesday, December 25. The page posted a picture of a Thai man performing the ritual alongside a pile of amulets, accompanied by the caption… “Explicit ritual exposed: Chanting over amulets and a couple during sexual activity to increase charm. The performer applies gold leaf to the participants’ private parts and chants while the couple intercourse”. Channel 7 reported that the amulets used in the ritual, known as Ngang Phet Phaya Thon, are believed to enhance the charm of their owners, supposedly making them more adored by those around them. The sorcerer, identified as 37 year old Em Paramee, also known as Em Thai Wizard, later gave an interview with Channel 7 and ThaiRath at his premises in Udon Thani to clarify the situation and defend his actions. Em admitted to being the ritual performer in the video and confirmed that the couple involved were foreign nationals. He claimed that he does not typically perform such explicit rituals but made an exception at the couple’s request. According to Em, the couple also asked to record the ritual. However, he stated that he did not expect them to share the video with others. Em further explained that he did not make a significant profit from the ritual. The ceremony was performed in a central province of Thailand, not at his premises. The couple covered all travel expenses, meals, and accommodation for him. m revealed that the amulets created during the ritual were divided equally between himself and the couple. He later sold the amulets for 888 baht each. Expressing regret, Em stated that he was sorry for the incident and vowed never to conduct such rituals again. Following the controversy, government officials inspected Em’s premises but found no illegal items. No legal charges or penalties were brought against him. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-27

Yacht fleet breakfast: Thaksin and Thamanat’s island meet-up By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and ex-Agriculture Minister Thamanat Prompow made waves yesterday, December 26 as they were spotted enjoying a private breakfast on the picturesque Koh Lipe, Satun province. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347326-yacht-fleet-breakfast-thaksin-and-thamanat’s-island-meet-up/

Photo courtesy of The Nation By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and ex-Agriculture Minister Thamanat Prompow made waves yesterday, December 26 as they were spotted enjoying a private breakfast on the picturesque Koh Lipe, Satun province. The political duo arrived in style, leading a fleet of six luxury yachts to the tropical getaway. Landing unannounced at the upscale Bulow Casa Grand View Resort, they dined from 9am to 11am, turning heads with their high-profile presence. Their breakfast meeting comes hot on the heels of Thamanat’s political manoeuvre, which saw him rally 20 MPs from the opposition Palang Pracharath Party to join the government coalition led by Pheu Thai—Thaksin’s political brainchild. During the visit, the pair were warmly greeted by local dignitaries, including Koh Lipe Entrepreneurs Association president Mukta Booeat, Koh Sarai subdistrict chief Nitit Sittarunno, and Lipe Police Station chief Police Major Sujit Piriya. Adding intrigue to the day, Thaksin had earlier hinted at a provisional meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, reportedly scheduled yesterday at a confidential location in Thailand. The talks were expected to address ongoing negotiations between the Thai government and the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN), the group at the forefront of the southern insurgency, reported The Nation. Observers speculate that this island rendezvous could signify more than just breakfast—potentially paving the way for strategic political and regional discussions. For now, Koh Lipe has added another chapter to its storied history as a backdrop for power moves. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-27

Wild Elephants Ravage Village as Tensions Rise Over Recent Shooting Photo: The Thaiger In the Chanthaburi province, wild elephants stormed the village of Khlong Daeng, causing serious damage to a house and a rubber plantation. This incident occurred just two days after a young male elephant was found dead from gunshot wounds nearby. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347325-wild-elephants-ravage-village-as-tensions-rise-over-recent-shooting/

Photo: The Thaiger In the Chanthaburi province, wild elephants stormed the village of Khlong Daeng, causing serious damage to a house and a rubber plantation. This incident occurred just two days after a young male elephant was found dead from gunshot wounds nearby. The elephants entered Moo 12 in the Pawa subdistrict, leaving destruction in their wake by demolishing a house and toppling many rubber trees. Local police and the village head, Wandee Dokdin, along with his team, quickly responded to assess the damage. The scene revealed a single-storey wooden house almost entirely destroyed. Fortunately, no rubber tappers were harmed as they were out working during the incident. Elephant footprints were found around the area, and many rubber trees were damaged. Sukrit Iemchit, a former village head, expressed that residents in Moo 9 live in constant fear due to frequent elephant visits, which spoil crops and damage property. Elephants invade plantations almost every other day, often in groups of 20 to 30, leaving villagers apprehensive to enter their fields. While some local elephants remain harmless, most are not, prompting Sukrit to urge government intervention. He proposed building standardised elephant trenches or barriers to protect residents and their properties. Investigations continue into the death of the young elephant, discovered on December 24 in a nearby rubber plantation. A veterinarian found bullets which are being analyzed in an effort to trace suspects. Police are questioning local residents and plantation caretakers to identify those responsible for the shooting. -- 2024-12-27

Ethereum's Vitalik Buterin Donates 10 Million Baht to Thai Zoo Project Photo: The Thaiger Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has donated 10 million baht (about $274,000) to Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri, Thailand. The donation will fund a wildlife adoption project and build a new home for the zoo's beloved pygmy hippo, Moo Deng, and his companions. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347324-ethereums-vitalik-buterin-donates-10-million-baht-to-thai-zoo-project/

Photo: The Thaiger Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has donated 10 million baht (about $274,000) to Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chon Buri, Thailand. The donation will fund a wildlife adoption project and build a new home for the zoo's beloved pygmy hippo, Moo Deng, and his companions. During a visit in November, Buterin met Moo Deng and her popular caretaker, Auttaphon ‘Benz’ Nundee. Yesterday, Benz’s Facebook page, ขาหมู แอนด์เดอะแก๊ง (Khamoo and the Gang), shared Buterin's generous contribution, making Moo Deng fans very happy. The funds will enhance the zoo with a 1,600-square-meter extension that includes homes for Moo Deng and capybaras, two outdoor exhibition zones, and areas for rescued wildlife. Zoo director, Narong Chondchoi, stated that half of the funds have already been received, with the rest arriving next year. Previously, in October, the $HIPPO cryptocurrency creator also donated 5 million baht to the zoo. Buterin announced that this donation is the start of his campaign to further contribute to zoos across Thailand. -- 2024-12-27

Pattaya Tourist Police Surprise Visitors with Sweets and Safety App File photo for reference only On Christmas Day, tourists in Pattaya received a festive surprise as the city's Tourist Police handed out sweets while promoting the Thailand Tourist Police app. This app is designed to enhance safety by allowing users to report incidents, share locations, and contact the police quickly, providing peace of mind to travelers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347323-pattaya-tourist-police-surprise-visitors-with-sweets-and-safety-app/

File photo for reference only On Christmas Day, tourists in Pattaya received a festive surprise as the city's Tourist Police handed out sweets while promoting the Thailand Tourist Police app. This app is designed to enhance safety by allowing users to report incidents, share locations, and contact the police quickly, providing peace of mind to travelers. In a bustling street alive with holiday spirit, Thai and international visitors wearing red and green outfits joined in the celebrations. Local businesses also participated by decorating their venues and hosting Christmas-themed activities. "We want everyone to enjoy the festivities while feeling safe," said a police spokesperson. The police also shared important safety tips with the sweets, adding practical advice to the holiday cheer. This initiative is part of a larger effort by Pattaya's authorities to ensure tourists can enjoy their holidays safely. A team of over 420 officers and volunteers took to the streets on Christmas Eve to protect visitors during the festive season. This operation, which began at 6:36 p.m. on December 24, was led by Yingyot Thepchamnong, Commander of Police Region 2, aiming to ensure safety for Christmas and New Year 2025 celebrations. -- 2024-12-27