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Thailand seeks family of woman found in Germany 35 years ago By Petch Petpailin Photo via INTERPOL The Mirror Foundation of Thailand are looking for the family of a Thai woman found dead in Germany 35 years ago so they can identify her. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346644-thailand-seeks-family-of-woman-found-in-germany-35-years-ago/

Photo via INTERPOL By Petch Petpailin The Mirror Foundation of Thailand are looking for the family of a Thai woman found dead in Germany 35 years ago so they can identify her. The foundation posted the details on its official Facebook page yesterday, December 18, along with an artist’s simulation of her appearance and an image of the clothing she was wearing when discovered. The details shared on the page were initially reported on the official website of INTERPOL. The woman’s body was found in an abandoned quarry between the districts of Oberweis and Griedelbach in Germany on February 8, 1989. Parts of her body had been covered with rubbish and soil. It is estimated that the woman was born between 1957 and 1967, making her between 22 and 32 years old at the time of her death. She is believed to have died sometime between October 8, 1988 and January 25, 1989. The cause of death was suspected to be asphyxiation due to intoxication. The woman had short, curly black hair, dark skin, and a height of 162 cm. Her eye colour remains unidentified. She had an appendectomy scar, and it was determined that she had given birth at least once. Based on her physical characteristics, the woman is believed to be of Asian descent and possibly a Thai national. On the day of her death, she was wearing grey sweatpants with red stripes along the legs and white stripes on the cuffs, as well as a dark blue hoodie. Beneath the sweatpants, she had paisley-patterned jeans. Anyone with information about the woman is urged to contact INTERPOL via its official website, or reach out to the Mirror Foundation via its official Facebook page or by calling 080-775-2673. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-19

Naval officer accused of lewd acts with 18 cadets under investigation By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of SiamNews A naval officer, working as a physiotherapist, is under investigation for allegedly committing lewd acts against 18 cadets at a military prep school. The school has promptly set up a committee to thoroughly investigate the claims made by the students’ parents, assuring them of a fair process and appropriate action if misconduct is confirmed. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346643-naval-officer-accused-of-lewd-acts-with-18-cadets-under-investigation/

Picture courtesy of SiamNews By Bright Choomanee A naval officer, working as a physiotherapist, is under investigation for allegedly committing lewd acts against 18 cadets at a military prep school. The school has promptly set up a committee to thoroughly investigate the claims made by the students’ parents, assuring them of a fair process and appropriate action if misconduct is confirmed. The troubling incident was reported after the cadets, aged between 16 and 18, returned from training sessions. Experiencing bodily aches, they sought physiotherapy treatment within the school premises. It was during these sessions that the alleged inappropriate behaviour took place. The prep school has taken the allegations seriously, initiating a swift investigation to uncover the truth. They have assured the cadets’ parents that justice will be served, reported Khaosod. “We are committed to conducting a thorough and fair inquiry,” the school officials relayed to the concerned parents. “Should the allegations prove true, disciplinary and legal actions will be taken against the involved officer.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-19

Mystery Over Pattaya Beach 'Human' Skull Solved: Animal Bones Found Photo: The Pattaya News A startling discovery on Pattaya Beach turned out less sinister than initially feared. The incident unfolded on December 17th when a tourist stumbled upon what appeared to be a human skull and bones in the sandy shoreline, sparking immediate concern and an official investigation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346570-mystery-over-pattaya-beach-human-skull-solved-animal-bones-found/

Photo: The Pattaya News A startling discovery on Pattaya Beach turned out less sinister than initially feared. The incident unfolded on December 17th when a tourist stumbled upon what appeared to be a human skull and bones in the sandy shoreline, sparking immediate concern and an official investigation. Police acted promptly when Mr. Decha, 25, reported the find. Leading officers to the site, he revealed a fist-sized skull and a notably long rib bone. Quickly becoming the centre of attention, the mysterious bones were found to emit an unpleasant odour, which Mr. Decha and his friends noted while their children played close by. Initial fears suggested the bones might be human, perhaps even those of a child, given their appearance. However, authorities quickly surmised that the origins were more animalistic, with monkeys being a likely candidate. Despite this hypothesis, the bones have been sent for rigorous examination to confirm these suspicions. This incident serves as a reminder to always remain cautious and report any suspicious findings, ensuring public safety and peace of mind. The discovery has sparked intrigue among residents and tourists, but for now, it appears to be a case of mistaken identity rather than a macabre truth on Thailand's famous beach, reported The Pattaya News. -- 2024-12-18

Thailand Unveils E-Visa System, Streamlining Travel for 2025 File photo for reference only Thailand has launched its pioneering Thai E-Visa system, set to revolutionise travel from January 1, 2025. This new digital approach will allow international travellers to obtain their visas online, eliminating the need for paperwork and embassy visits. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346569-thailand-unveils-e-visa-system-streamlining-travel-for-2025/

File photo for reference only Thailand has launched its pioneering Thai E-Visa system, set to revolutionise travel from January 1, 2025. This new digital approach will allow international travellers to obtain their visas online, eliminating the need for paperwork and embassy visits. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs presented the system after over a decade of development, aiming to fast-track and secure the visa application process. Built around the concept of 3As—Apply, Anywhere, and Anytime—the E-Visa is designed to be accessible and user-friendly. Applicants can apply online at any time and pay fees digitally, thanks to a partnership with Kasikornbank. Director-General Worawut highlighted that this system facilitates seamless interaction with the Immigration Bureau for optimal security. Although some nations still must present payment proof in person, efforts are underway to standardise online payments worldwide. The E-Visa covers 94 global embassies and consulates, underscoring Thailand’s ambition to attract more tourists, business people, and students. Minister Maris Sangiampongsa stated this initiative simplifies travel, enhancing Thailand’s global competitiveness. The existing visa waiver programme remains for 93 countries, ensuring tourists from these regions enjoy visa exemptions. Inquiries about E-Visa verification were addressed, with electronic confirmation available via email for airport procedures. This move positions Thailand as a leader in smart travel solutions, marrying convenience with robust security measures to enhance its appeal as a top global destination. -- 2024-12-18

Thailand Unveils Digital Global Driving Licence via Mobile App Photo: The Thaiger In a major move towards tech-driven public services, Thailand's Department of Land Transport (DLT) and Krungthai Bank have launched a new service allowing Thai citizens to apply for international driving licences digitally through the Paotang app. This initiative aims to provide citizens with unprecedented convenience and accessibility by enabling applications 24/7, regardless of location. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346568-thailand-unveils-digital-global-driving-licence-via-mobile-app/

Photo: The Thaiger In a major move towards tech-driven public services, Thailand's Department of Land Transport (DLT) and Krungthai Bank have launched a new service allowing Thai citizens to apply for international driving licences digitally through the Paotang app. This initiative aims to provide citizens with unprecedented convenience and accessibility by enabling applications 24/7, regardless of location. Spearheaded by Deputy Minister of Transport Suparpong Piyachote, DLT Director General Jirut Wisanjit, and Krungthai Bank's Head of Product & Business Solutions, Thawatchai Chiwananth, this collaboration marks a pivotal shift in public service delivery. The initiative aligns with the Thai government’s broader goal to integrate digital solutions into everyday administrative processes, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency and quality of life. Beginning today, the system simplifies obtaining an international driving licence by offering a seamless application process via the app. Applicants can complete all necessary steps—application submission, identity verification, payment, and licence issuance—without needing to visit a government office. The service caters to those driving in countries under the Geneva and Vienna Conventions. The significant demand for international licences, exceeding 160,000 in fiscal year 2024, highlights the need for such a service among Thais travelling abroad. The digital service incorporates data integration from various agencies and includes a postal delivery option, reducing the associated costs and effort traditionally required. Beyond this initiative, Krungthai Bank aims to broaden its offerings, including processing vehicle tax payments, managing traffic fines, and providing digital medical certificates for domestic licence renewals. These expansions are set to reinforce accessible, efficient service delivery, showcasing a commitment to digital innovation and public convenience. The project promises a streamlined future for countless citizens navigating international and domestic driving requirements. -- 2024-12-18

Bangkok Unites to Tackle Begging and Homelessness on Main Street File photo for reference only Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has announced a collaborative effort with the Royal Thai Police to address the chronic issue of begging and homelessness along Sukhumvit Road. This new initiative, following discussions with Police General Kitrat Phanphet, aims to implement a pilot project spanning from Phoenchit to Phra Khanong. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346567-bangkok-unites-to-tackle-begging-and-homelessness-on-main-street/

File photo for reference only Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has announced a collaborative effort with the Royal Thai Police to address the chronic issue of begging and homelessness along Sukhumvit Road. This new initiative, following discussions with Police General Kitrat Phanphet, aims to implement a pilot project spanning from Phoenchit to Phra Khanong. The project marks a significant step, with the hope of producing tangible results this year. Sukhumvit Road will serve as a focal point, potentially becoming a model for other areas. The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security is also actively involved in this endeavour. Understanding the complexity of the situation, Governor Chadchart outlined the necessity for sustained, long-term solutions. Such measures include enhancing social welfare services, creating affordable housing opportunities, and assisting with job placement for homeless individuals. A BMA survey recently found that Bangkok is home to approximately 400 homeless people, highlighting the need for urgent attention. The initiative follows a recent crackdown on local beggars, resulting in twelve arrests, comprising both Thai and foreign nationals. Shockingly, one local beggar was discovered to possess a million baht bank account and substantial cash holdings. Foreign beggars faced charges for illegal residency and begging. This joint task force represents a focused attempt to address these social challenges, signalling a committed response from Bangkok's leadership. Time will tell if these efforts can effectively curb the issues on Sukhumvit Road. -- 2024-12-18

Steel Factory Explosion in Rayong Leaves Dozens Injured and Trapped File photo for reference only A devastating explosion rocked a steel factory in Rayong province's Ban Khai district on Wednesday morning, leaving dozens injured and many trapped within the plant. The explosion occurred at around 10:30 AM at Xin Ke Yuan Steel Co., Ltd., with emergency crews swiftly arriving to tackle the growing fire and begin rescue efforts. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346566-steel-factory-explosion-in-rayong-leaves-dozens-injured-and-trapped/

File photo for reference only A devastating explosion rocked a steel factory in Rayong province's Ban Khai district on Wednesday morning, leaving dozens injured and many trapped within the plant. The explosion occurred at around 10:30 AM at Xin Ke Yuan Steel Co., Ltd., with emergency crews swiftly arriving to tackle the growing fire and begin rescue efforts. Initial reports from the Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office indicate that at least ten people have sustained injuries, while more than twenty employees remain unaccounted for in the chaos that ensued post-blast. Firefighters are facing considerable challenges, as the intensity of the fire hampers their ability to enter the most damaged areas safely. Efforts are underway to ascertain the explosion’s cause as local authorities collaborate with various agencies to extend necessary support to those affected and their families. The situation is being closely monitored, with the hope that rescue operations will safely retrieve those still trapped. Task forces are committed to bringing the incident under control while ensuring minimum further risk to staff and emergency responders battling the blaze. -- 2024-12-18

Thai man tricked in car sale scam with fake nurse in Nonthaburi By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A man from Nonthaburi found himself entangled in a sophisticated scam involving a fake nurse and a fraudulent car sale, resulting in a loss of half a million baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346565-thai-man-tricked-in-car-sale-scam-with-fake-nurse-in-nonthaburi/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A man from Nonthaburi found himself entangled in a sophisticated scam involving a fake nurse and a fraudulent car sale, resulting in a loss of half a million baht. A 30 year old man, Thawatchai, filed a complaint with Tevagrit Maneerat, Deputy Superintendent of Investigation at Bang Yai Police Station, Nonthaburi, after being deceived by a 41 year old woman named Ketsinee who sold him a white Toyota Fortuner with a false registration. The second-hand vehicle, supposedly worth 550,000 baht, was presented with a fake sales contract at a car showroom in Chiang Mai. However, just five days after the purchase, police seized the vehicle as it turned out to be a rental car reported missing by a company in Chiang Mai. Ketsinee rented the car on November 29 and sold it to Thawatchai the very next day. She replaced the original red license plate with a white one that bore no registered owner. Further investigations revealed that all the documents related to the sale were forged. Thawatchai recounted that a broker, known only as Bee, initially introduced him to the car, claiming it was a showroom display. Thawatchai was convinced of the vehicle’s legitimacy due to the transaction taking place at the showroom, complete with receipts and a full set of keys. “Receiving the car at the showroom made me feel secure about the purchase. The person who brought the car was dressed as a nurse, which added to her credibility.” Thawatchai suspected that Ketsinee was not acting alone and believed that more than two people were involved in the scam, given the elaborate setup and the presence of another individual posing as a car salesperson to collect the down payment. Five days after the purchase, a person claiming to be the car’s rightful owner appeared with a key, leading to the vehicle’s confiscation by the police. Thawatchai expressed his shock, as he had been led to believe the car was legally his, emphasising the need for potential buyers to be extremely cautious and verify the authenticity of all documents and the identity of the seller. Tevagrit Maneerat highlighted that the case involved four main parties: the rental company claiming ownership of the vehicle, Thawatchai as the victim, the police station in Bueng Kan responsible for the vehicle’s seizure, and the showroom in Chiang Mai where the fraudulent transaction took place. Bang Yai Police Station is coordinating with other jurisdictions to gather evidence and statements. The investigation has been handed over to the Mae Jo Police Station, as the fraud occurred within their area of responsibility. Meanwhile, the rental company filed a complaint with the Phu Phing Ratchaniwet Police Station in Chiang Mai, accusing Ketsinee of embezzlement. Thawatchai’s case involves fraud due to the falsified documents. The police are also examining whether Ketsinee genuinely works as a nurse, as any misrepresentation could further substantiate the charges of fraud against her. Her criminal history shows involvement in several cases dating back to 2007, with warrants issued as recently as 2024 for theft. Police urge individuals considering car purchases to meticulously verify all vehicle and financial documents to avoid falling prey to similar scams. As the investigation unfolds, law enforcement aims to uncover the full extent of the fraudulent network and bring those responsible to justice, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-18

Call centre bust: 5 Japanese scammers nabbed in Thailand By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Immigration police via Bangkok Post Thai immigration police arrested five Japanese nationals accused of running a fraudulent call centre in Pattaya that conned elderly Japanese citizens out of a staggering 5 million baht daily. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346564-call-centre-bust-5-japanese-scammers-nabbed-in-thailand/

Photo courtesy of Immigration police via Bangkok Post By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Thai immigration police arrested five Japanese nationals accused of running a fraudulent call centre in Pattaya that conned elderly Japanese citizens out of a staggering 5 million baht daily. Police Major General Panumat Boonyalak, acting commissioner, revealed that the bust followed a tip-off from the Japanese embassy. The gang had allegedly duped victims with promises of refunds for past medical expenses, demanding an upfront payment of at least 500,000 Japanese yen (around 111,000 baht). The operation preyed on the vulnerable, exploiting trust to rake in millions. Raids on two luxury pool villas in Pattaya led to the arrests of suspects Ukai Takayuki, Hatakana Hajime, Kenjiro Kimura, Takahiro Inoue, and Katsuhito Yamaguchi. The first villa yielded 42 mobile phones, tablet computers, scammers’ scripts, and recorded conversations. Takayuki and Hajime, said to be the leaders, allegedly coordinated the scam. The second raid uncovered 37 phones, additional scripts, and a database of victims, said Police Colonel Chaya Panakit, the bureau’s chief interrogator. “These suspects were making calls to potential victims, posing as officials.” The scam’s mastermind is believed to be linked to the Japanese Yakuza, adding a sinister layer to the operation. The gang reportedly laundered their illicit earnings through Thai-run businesses, further complicating the investigation. With an estimated daily haul of 24 million yen, the scam highlighted the dangers of international fraud networks targeting the elderly, reported Bangkok Post. “This is a major breakthrough but also a stark reminder to stay vigilant against such schemes.” The arrests mark a crucial step in dismantling the operation, with Thai police working closely with Japanese counterparts to ensure justice is served. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-18

BB gun vendors spark shootout on Pattaya Walking Street - video By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เป็นข่าวพัทยา More than 20 police officers intervened in a violent clash between two BB gun vendors on Pattaya Walking Street yesterday, December 17. Fortunately, no innocent people were injured in the incident. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346563-bb-gun-vendors-spark-shootout-on-pattaya-walking-street-video/

Photo via Facebook/ เป็นข่าวพัทยา By Petch Petpailin More than 20 police officers intervened in a violent clash between two BB gun vendors on Pattaya Walking Street yesterday, December 17. Fortunately, no innocent people were injured in the incident. Officers from Mueang Pattaya Police Station were called to Pattaya Walking Street on the night of December 16 after a 43 year old BB gun vendor, Chart “Job” Sukboondaeng, punched another vendor, 43 year old Nirun “Jab” Saengprason, in the face. The police took both men to the station, issued charges against them, and then released them. Unfortunately, another altercation, this time more severe, broke out between the two men at around 4am on the following day, December 17. More than 20 police officers rushed to the scene and found a group of frightened foreign tourists. Chart managed to flee the scene, leaving his rival Nirun with a cut on his body. Nirun told the police that Chart threw a knife at him, causing the wound. Nirun explained that Chart previously argued with his employees and that the disagreement had been ongoing for some time. On the day of the incident, Nirun saw Chart walking past his shop and approached him to resolve the issue, but they ended up in a heated argument. The argument quickly escalated into a physical altercation, prompting police intervention, as mentioned above. However, Chart did not end the issue at the police station but returned to Nirun’s shop with his friends, leading to another fight. Nirun admitted that he carried both a knife and a gun for protection and insisted that Chart and his friends were also armed. Some witnesses shared videos of the fight with the police, showing Nirun wielding both a knife and a gun while daring his rivals to fight. Tourists were seen fleeing the scene for their safety, causing chaos. Fortunately, only Nirun was injured in the incident. Officers are now searching for Chart and his friends, who were involved, to bring them to justice. The details of the charges and potential punishment have not yet been made public. Further investigations will be conducted at each BB gun store in the area, as they may pose a danger to visitors on Walking Street. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-18

AMLO freezes assets worth billions in major fraud crackdown By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) has made remarkable strides in addressing fraud cases, including those involving notable figures and corporations, resulting in the seizure and freezing of assets valued at billions of baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346562-amlo-freezes-assets-worth-billions-in-major-fraud-crackdown/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post By Puntid Tantivangphaisal The Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) has made remarkable strides in addressing fraud cases, including those involving notable figures and corporations, resulting in the seizure and freezing of assets valued at billions of baht. The development was shared by AMLO Secretary General Theppasu Bavornchotidara and Witthaya Neetitham, its spokesperson, following a meeting with the transaction committee. Twelve significant cases have seen asset seizures and freezes, encompassing large-scale fraud, drug-related crimes, and online gambling networks. The assets in question amount to over 234 items with a combined value of roughly 836 million baht. AMLO specifically targeted cases like that of renowned lawyer Sittra Biabungkerd and his associates, who face charges of fraud and money laundering. In this instance, assets including land, buildings, and bank accounts amounting to 71 million baht have been frozen. Another significant case under AMLO’s purview is that of Duennapa Kaewkamnerd and her accomplices, who are implicated in public fraud. Their assets, numbering 122 items and valued at approximately 669 million baht, have been seized. A Chinese woman and her group are likewise charged with public fraud and money laundering, resulting in the confiscation of 66 assets, such as condominium units and bank accounts, valued at 78 million baht. Panuwat Jaiman and his associates, involved in public fraud through money trading, have seen 22 of their assets seized. These include land, properties, and bank accounts, collectively worth around 81 million baht. In the case concerning The iCon Group, AMLO proposed that 103 assets valued at 286 million baht be transferred to state ownership. Meanwhile, 40 items worth 29 million baht have been returned to rightful claimants. Victims are encouraged to file claims by February 17. AMLO will then prepare a list of claimants and assess damages, potentially leading to civil court proceedings to secure restitution or compensation based on individual losses. The situation involving Chanin Yensudjai, former chairperson of Stark Corporation, is also under scrutiny. AMLO has taken steps to seek restitution for more than 3,900 victims, involving 50 assets with an estimated worth of 3.24 billion baht. The civil court is considering further actions concerning these assets, as AMLO has submitted the case to prosecutors for the potential recovery of funds, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-18

Hair today, gone tomorrow: Bangkok cops snip illegal Myanmar barbers By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Bang Khun Thian district arrested four Myanmar nationals working as barbers, allegedly taking jobs from Thai citizens. This incident unfolded yesterday, December 17, at the ANGEL-20 hair salon located at the end of Nai Riang Market, Bang Bon, Bangkok. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346561-hair-today-gone-tomorrow-bangkok-cops-snip-illegal-myanmar-barbers/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Police in Bang Khun Thian district arrested four Myanmar nationals working as barbers, allegedly taking jobs from Thai citizens. This incident unfolded yesterday, December 17, at the ANGEL-20 hair salon located at the end of Nai Riang Market, Bang Bon, Bangkok. The arrest followed a tip-off received by Kittisak Bunsermsak, a police inspector at Bang Khun Thian Police Station. He was informed about foreign workers allegedly taking over jobs at the ANGEL-20 hair salon. Upon receiving this information, officers proceeded to inspect the premises located in the middle of Soi Ekkachai 64/7, where the salon is situated. Upon arrival, law enforcement confirmed that the salon was operational and serving customers. Officers presented themselves as police and proceeded to conduct checks within the establishment. During the inspection, they identified four Myanmar nationals working as barbers. These were identified as: 23 year old Wai Yan Lin, 24 year old Myo Lin Htay, Ni Ni Oo also 24, and 31 year old Moe Kay Paing. The four workers were charged with being foreign nationals working without a work permit or engaging in jobs beyond their permitted rights, as outlined in Section 8, with penalties under Section 101 of the Royal Ordinance on the Management of Foreign Workers’ Employment (2017) and its amendments (No. 2) 2018. The arrested individuals were taken along with evidence to the investigating officers for further proceedings. “Upon stepping into the salon, officers saw the workers busy with customers, confirming the tip-off that foreign nationals were indeed working there.” The situation highlights ongoing concerns regarding employment competition between local Thais and foreign workers, particularly in sectors like hairstyling, which traditionally employs a significant number of local workers. The arrest at the ANGEL-20 salon is part of a broader effort by police to regulate and manage the employment of foreign nationals in compliance with Thai labour laws. “This operation serves as a reminder that all workers must comply with local employment regulations to ensure fair job opportunities for Thai citizens.” The issue of foreign nationals working without permits has been a persistent challenge, prompting regulatory authorities to enforce stricter rules and conduct regular checks. This ensures that all individuals working in Thailand are legally permitted, creating a balanced and fair employment environment, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-18

Thailand rolls out red carpet with bigger rebates for filmmakers By Puntid Tantivangphaisal File photo for reference only The Thail Cabinet approved an increase in the rebate offered to foreign film productions, raising it to a range of 15 to 30% to attract more international filmmakers to shoot in the country. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346560-thailand-rolls-out-red-carpet-with-bigger-rebates-for-filmmakers/