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Photo: The Thaiger In a pre-dawn operation yesterday, police in Kanchanaburi, Thailand, apprehended 84 people from Myanmar's Rakhine State, who entered the country illegally. Acting on a tip-off, Thong Pha Phum police, alongside other agencies, discovered an abandoned pickup truck with obscured plates blocking a road. This led them to a forest search, where they found the immigrants hiding. The individuals, unable to communicate due to language barriers and lacking identification, recounted their daunting journey. They crossed the Myanmar-Thailand border and navigated dense jungle to reach Sangkhla Buri's river port. Here, they boarded a boat to what would become their pickup point – leading to their eventual discovery. Interestingly, each migrant had paid 75,000 baht (£1,900) to traffickers, hoping to traverse Thailand en route to Malaysia for work. The operation took a twist as police arrested the driver of the pickup, identifying him as one of the smugglers. The vehicle was seized, and the immigrants have been moved to local police custody, with legal proceedings anticipated. Authorities are persistently tackling the issues of illegal immigration and human trafficking in the area. -- 2024-12-12

Thailand Expects Release of Crews Detained in Myanmar by New Year Photo: The Thaiger The Thai Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, announced the expected release of four Thai crew members detained in Myanmar after a maritime incident. They were held following a violent encounter on November 30, where Myanmar patrol boats fired on 15 vessels near Thailand's border, leading to one fatality. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346026-thailand-expects-release-of-crews-detained-in-myanmar-by-new-year/

Photo: The Thaiger The Thai Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, announced the expected release of four Thai crew members detained in Myanmar after a maritime incident. They were held following a violent encounter on November 30, where Myanmar patrol boats fired on 15 vessels near Thailand's border, leading to one fatality. Despite ongoing legal procedures in Myanmar, PM Paetongtarn assured the crew's safety. Diplomatic discussions, including a meeting on December 19 between Thai and Myanmar foreign ministers, are aiming for the crew's release soon after the New Year. The incident, which sparked calls from opposition leader Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn for quicker action, has been deemed a disproportionate reaction by Myanmar's patrols. He urges for a definitive release date and compensation for the affected crew. Thailand is considering various diplomatic avenues, including potential discussions at the upcoming ASEAN ministerial meeting and direct negotiations with Myanmar’s military leader, to expedite the process. -- 2024-12-12

Myanmar Man Arrested in Phuket for Illicit Tourist Boat Operations File photo for reference only A 21-year-old man from Myanmar, known as Paii, found himself in custody at Chalong Pier after being apprehended for operating an illegal tourist boat operation. The Marine Police, during a routine check, discovered Paii running services with a raft of violations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346025-myanmar-man-arrested-in-phuket-for-illicit-tourist-boat-operations/

File photo for reference only A 21-year-old man from Myanmar, known as Paii, found himself in custody at Chalong Pier after being apprehended for operating an illegal tourist boat operation. The Marine Police, during a routine check, discovered Paii running services with a raft of violations. This arrest forms part of a larger effort to tackle unlicensed operations within Phuket's bustling tourism sector—a region experiencing an uptick in attempts to bypass regulations. Officers routinely monitor these activities to ensure visitor safety and compliance with local laws. Paii is charged with several offences, including working without a valid permit as stipulated under the Royal Decree on the Management of Foreign Workers. Additionally, he operated a boat with an expired license under the Thai Navigation Act and lacked the necessary certification to prove his qualifications. The longtail boat in question was transporting tourists from Koh Lone to Chalong Pier when officials discovered its license had lapsed on November 5. When asked for documents, Paii was unable to provide a proper work permit, valid boat license, or certification of competence. He was first taken to the Marine Police's Region 3 offices for initial processing before being transferred to Chalong Police Station for further proceedings. Although it's clear that Paii was at the helm, the question of whether he owned the boat or worked for an employer remains unanswered, leaving the door open on the extent of this illegal enterprise. The incident sends a clear message about the Marine Police's commitment to curbing illegal activities, protecting tourists, and maintaining safety standards in Phuket's renowned tourism industry. -- 2024-12-12

3 Prachin Buri bodyguards nabbed over deadly shooting of PAO candidate By Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath Police arrested three bodyguards of the Prachin Buri Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) chief for the fatal shooting of the next PAO chief candidate last night. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346022-3-prachin-buri-bodyguards-nabbed-over-deadly-shooting-of-pao-candidate/

Photo via ThaiRath By Petch Petpailin Police arrested three bodyguards of the Prachin Buri Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) chief for the fatal shooting of the next PAO chief candidate last night. The shooting broke out in the two-storey house of the PAO‘s chief executive, Sunthorn Wilawan, at around 9pm, December 11. Locals heard multiple gunshots before everything went silent. Sunthorn’s pet dogs continued barking. Later, at around 9.45pm, commando police arrived at the scene and negotiated with Sunthorn and his bodyguards before investigating the house. Officers found the lifeless body of 48 year old Chaimate “Tong” Sittisanitpong with multiple gunshot wounds. Chaimate was Sunthorn’s adopted son and worked closely with him for a long time. He was an influential person in the province and also a former leading member of the Prachin Buri Provincial Council. Two assault rifles and a 9mm pistol were found in the hallway of the house. Ten bullet casings were found at the scene. Matichon and DailyNews reported that Chaimate visited Sunthorn’s house to discuss the upcoming PAO chief election as Sunthorn planned to step down. The internal meeting was held to discuss who would be the next candidate for this important election. They may not have been able to agree on the matter, leading to the fatal shooting. Three gunmen were arrested at the scene, all of whom were Suthorn’s bodyguards. They denied giving any information to the police and concealed the motive for the fatal shooting. Accordingly, officers were required to arrest Suthorn along with three family members residing at the same address. They have been under questioning since last night. KhaoSod reported today, December 12, that Sunthorn appeared unfazed by the fatal shooting that occurred in his home and maintained that he was not involved. Suthorn said he planned to step down and let his adopted son join the next election. On the day of the incident, they nicely agreed on the matter. However, the deceased had a long-standing conflict with his bodyguards, leading to the fatal shooting. Suthorn is one of the most powerful politicians in the province and used to serve as the Deputy Minister of Education. His daughter, Kanokwan Wilawan, also followed in her father’s political footsteps and became the Deputy Minister of Education during the reign of former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha. Unfortunately, Kanokwan had to resign from her position due to the Khao Yai forest encroachment case. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-12

Thai woman arrested in Bangkok for opening mule account By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A 21 year old Thai woman has been arrested after her younger sister allegedly coaxed her into opening a bank account under the guise of saving salary money for her niece, only for it to be used as a mule account in a call centre scam. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346021-thai-woman-arrested-in-bangkok-for-opening-mule-account/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A 21 year old Thai woman has been arrested after her younger sister allegedly coaxed her into opening a bank account under the guise of saving salary money for her niece, only for it to be used as a mule account in a call centre scam. Police officers, led by Police Major General Kongkrit Leothsithikul, took action yesterday, December 11, following arrest warrants issued by the Minburi Criminal Court against 21 year old Nuengsuda. The charges included fraud by impersonating another person and inputting false information into a computer system. Similar warrants were also issued by the Lopburi and Chum Phae provincial courts. The arrest took place at the Kui Buri railway station in Prachuap Khiri Khan province. Police received information about a suspect travelling by train to Kui Buri station. Officers set up surveillance and apprehended the suspect as she disembarked from train number 254, running from Lang Suan to Thonburi. The arrest was made promptly upon her arrival at the station. With tears in her eyes, Nuengsuda explained that she had opened the bank account because her younger sister requested it, claiming it would be used for her niece’s salary deposits. Out of love and trust for her sibling, she agreed to the request, unaware that the account would become a mule account for a call centre scam, resulting in complaints from victims across three jurisdictions, reported KhaoSod. “I want to warn others to be cautious. If anyone asks you to open an account, whether they’re family or acquaintances, it’s best to refuse to prevent situations like mine.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-12

Drunken man with shotgun challenges Bangkok police to fist fight By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A man caused chaos in a Nong Chok neighbourhood in Bangkok by brandishing a shotgun and challenging police officers to a fist fight. Residents were frustrated by the commotion caused by the inebriated individual. This incident occurred yesterday, December 11, around 10.30pm, following a police report from the local. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346018-drunken-man-with-shotgun-challenges-bangkok-police-to-fist-fight/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee A man caused chaos in a Nong Chok neighbourhood in Bangkok by brandishing a shotgun and challenging police officers to a fist fight. Residents were frustrated by the commotion caused by the inebriated individual. This incident occurred yesterday, December 11, around 10.30pm, following a police report from the local. Police Lieutenant Chairat Charasmetawit, an investigator at Nong Chok Police Station, received a complaint about a drunken man with a firearm causing a disturbance outside a house in a local village. Upon arrival at the scene, officers found Weerapong dancing erratically, shouting, and blaring music in front of his home. Officers Panomphon Jaitiang and Sitthiporn Duangsuwan approached him to issue a warning and requested to search him for any illegal items. However, Weerapong resisted and became increasingly agitated, refusing to allow the search and causing a scene while the officers attempted to summon his wife to the location. Weerapong then retreated into his house, only to emerge with a shotgun loaded with five shells. He ran outside, pointing the gun at the arresting officers. Recognising the potential danger, Officer Panomphon engaged in a negotiation with Weerapong, urging him to calm down and put down the weapon. Subsequently, Weerapong boldly challenged Officer Sitthiporn, taunting him to remove his uniform and fight him one-on-one, declaring that he was unafraid. The arresting officers managed to subdue Weerapong and confiscated the firearm as evidence. Officer Sitthiporn inspected the weapon, discovering one 12-gauge cartridge in the chamber and four additional rounds within the gun. The police filed preliminary charges against Weerapong, including insulting an officer performing official duties, resisting or obstructing officers in the course of their duties, using a firearm, creating a public disturbance without reasonable cause, intimidating others, and causing fear or panic through threats. He was also charged with consuming alcohol and causing a public nuisance through loud noise, reported KhaoSod. The detainee, along with the confiscated evidence, was handed over to the investigators at Nong Chok Police Station for further legal proceedings. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-12

Paws and order: Thai man abuses 3 cats after row with boyfriend By Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon Police charged a Thai man in the Isaan province of Sakon Nakhon with physically abusing three pet cats after videos and pictures of the abuse were shared in a Facebook group of animal lovers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346016-paws-and-order-thai-man-abuses-3-cats-after-row-with-boyfriend/

Photo via Matichon By Petch Petpailin Police charged a Thai man in the Isaan province of Sakon Nakhon with physically abusing three pet cats after videos and pictures of the abuse were shared in a Facebook group of animal lovers. A man shared the videos and pictures of his ex-boyfriend strangling their pet cats and throwing them against the wall of a condominium room in a Facebook group แจกหมาแมวฟรี สกลนคร (meaning “cats and dogs for free”). In one video, the attacker was seen abusing one of the cats while imagining he’s talking to his ex-boyfriend. “You love this one the most, right?” The man asked members of the group whether he could take legal action against his ex-boyfriend. The post gained significant attention from netizens and quickly went viral, drawing coverage from various news agencies. The man later revealed to one netizen that he clashed with his ex-boyfriend over a jealousy issue. Following their breakup, the ex-boyfriend requested custody of all the cats they had cared for together. However, the ex-boyfriend later sent him pictures and videos of the cruelty and threatened to kill the animals. Officers from Mueang Sakon Nakhon Police Station visited the residence of the attacker, identified as 41 year old Taenkhun, today, December 12, and charged him with animal abuse. Under Section 381 of the Criminal Law, the penalty for such an offence is up to one month in prison, a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or both. Taenkhun agreed to take the cats for health checks, which confirmed that all three were safe and healthy. Taenkhun issued a public apology to animal lovers, attributing his violent actions to a moment of anger. He claimed his actions were an attempt to gain attention from his ex-boyfriend. He vowed never to harm the cats again and announced plans to rename them from Dummy, Charcoal, and Tao Hoo to the new names as a symbolic gesture marking a fresh start. He even invited netizens to suggest new names for the three cats. Taenkhun also stated that he would comply fully with legal proceedings and described the incident as a significant lesson for him. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-12

Thai Embassy Advises Nationals in Korea on Overstay Amnesty Plan File photo for reference only The Royal Thai Embassy in Seoul has called upon Thai nationals living illegally in South Korea to voluntarily come forward to the Immigration Office for repatriation. This appeal, effective until 31 January 2025, comes with an incentive: waivers on fines for overstaying and leniency on future re-entry restrictions for those who comply with the initiative. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345945-thai-embassy-advises-nationals-in-korea-on-overstay-amnesty-plan/

File photo for reference only The Royal Thai Embassy in Seoul has called upon Thai nationals living illegally in South Korea to voluntarily come forward to the Immigration Office for repatriation. This appeal, effective until 31 January 2025, comes with an incentive: waivers on fines for overstaying and leniency on future re-entry restrictions for those who comply with the initiative. Thai citizens wishing to take advantage of this programme must report their status either online or in person at immigration centres. They need to give advance notice of their intention to leave, with a time window between 3 to 15 days prior to their travel date. A valid passport and a confirmed flight are essential. On the day of their departure, they must undergo a compulsory screening process at specified zones in Incheon International Airport's Terminals 1 and 2, arriving at least four hours ahead of their flights. However, the proposal excludes individuals who overstayed after September 30, 2024, entered South Korea unlawfully, used false passports, or have criminal convictions, as well as those under deportation orders. For those needing to delay their departure, applications for an extension should be directed to the local Immigration Office within the allocated timeframe. The embassy has detailed the reporting process, directing individuals to register on http://hikorea.go.kr or to follow set procedures at physical Immigration Offices. This move aims to encourage voluntary compliance while easing the legal aftermath for Thai citizens willing to return home. -- 2024-12-11

Health Station Revolutionises Universal Healthcare in Bangkok File photo for reference only In a bold stride towards enhancing universal healthcare, the Ministry of Public Health unveils the "Health Station" initiative. This telemedicine service, currently launched as a pilot at the Charoenchai Housing Cooperative Community in Bangkok, enables residents to consult doctors through video calls, addressing 42 medical conditions. The aim is to ease hospital congestion and reduce waiting times, with plans to expand across the capital and eventually nationwide. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345943-health-station-revolutionises-universal-healthcare-in-bangkok/

File photo for reference only In a bold stride towards enhancing universal healthcare, the Ministry of Public Health unveils the "Health Station" initiative. This telemedicine service, currently launched as a pilot at the Charoenchai Housing Cooperative Community in Bangkok, enables residents to consult doctors through video calls, addressing 42 medical conditions. The aim is to ease hospital congestion and reduce waiting times, with plans to expand across the capital and eventually nationwide. The "Health Station" represents a collaboration between the National Health Security Office and private collaborators, effectively bridging gaps in medical accessibility. Equipped with communication tools and vital sign measurement devices, these kiosks empower community members to conduct basic health assessments with immediate results. Supporting up to 72 patients daily, each station offers consultations via video calls, with options for home-delivered medications or collection from nearby pharmacies. Maintenance duties fall upon the community, ensuring continual service and functionality. This initiative not only enhances access but also brings convenience and speed to the healthcare experience, aligning with governmental goals to streamline the national health security system. By integrating modern innovations, the initiative promises to cut costs related to medical care and improve quality of life, signifying a seismic shift in the healthcare landscape. -- 2024-12-11

Thailand Motor Expo 2024 Records Over 50,000 Vehicle Bookings File photo for reference only The recently concluded 41st Thailand International Motor Expo, MOTOR EXPO 2024, has significantly boosted the automotive industry, successfully welcoming over 1.4 million visitors and achieving more than 50,000 vehicle bookings. Kwanchai Papaspong, the Chairman of the event, highlighted how this year's expo invigorated the auto sector and bolstered economic activity. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345941-thailand-motor-expo-2024-records-over-50000-vehicle-bookings/

File photo for reference only The recently concluded 41st Thailand International Motor Expo, MOTOR EXPO 2024, has significantly boosted the automotive industry, successfully welcoming over 1.4 million visitors and achieving more than 50,000 vehicle bookings. Kwanchai Papaspong, the Chairman of the event, highlighted how this year's expo invigorated the auto sector and bolstered economic activity. There was an impressive booking figure, with cars leading at 54,513 units while motorcycles accounted for 7,982 units. The “Buy a Car…Win a Car” campaign saw higher participation than in previous years. Interestingly, 41.3% of the total bookings were for electric vehicles, indicating a growing interest in sustainable transport. Brands like Honda, BYD, and Toyota enjoyed the highest customer engagement. Meanwhile, Honda, Toyota, and Ford topped regular vehicle bookings, with BYD, AION, and GEELY leading in the electric vehicle segment. The sales figures were notable, with the average car sold for 1.25 million baht and motorcycles fetching about 191,063 baht each, generating an estimated 55 billion baht in total sales during the event. Not limited to physical attendance, the event's digital outreach was commendable, with the MOTOR EXPO application seeing 30,808 downloads and over 2.4 million online views, illustrating its extended reach and influence. -- 2024-12-11

Tourists Rush in as “50:50” Scheme in Thailand Sees Full Subscription File photo for reference only In a bid to boost tourism in Thailand's 17 northern provinces, the "50:50" spending program has quickly met its target, with all 10,000 entitlements snapped up. Launched on November 1st, the initiative offers a unique opportunity for travellers, providing 50% discounts on hotel stays and dining experiences. The scheme, a collaboration between the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and 554 local tourism businesses, is set to conclude on December 31st. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345940-tourists-rush-in-as-“5050”-scheme-in-thailand-sees-full-subscription/

File photo for reference only In a bid to boost tourism in Thailand's 17 northern provinces, the "50:50" spending program has quickly met its target, with all 10,000 entitlements snapped up. Launched on November 1st, the initiative offers a unique opportunity for travellers, providing 50% discounts on hotel stays and dining experiences. The scheme, a collaboration between the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and 554 local tourism businesses, is set to conclude on December 31st. Chiang Rai emerged as the most popular destination, followed by Chiang Mai, Nan, Phrae, and Phayao provinces, attracting the bulk of the activity. Many entitlements were leveraged for hotel bookings and culinary adventures, highlighting the scheme's success in stimulating local tourism. However, not all feedback has been positive. Some participants have pointed out the program’s inflexibility, with entitlements needing to be used within a three-day window. Warunee Khammeru, General Manager of the Duang Tawan Hotel in Chiang Mai, noted the concern, especially as governmental refund delays could strain businesses financially, with reimbursements anticipated only in January. Despite minor hiccups, the consensus among hoteliers remains optimistic. The program, although brief, has injected a much-needed boost to local businesses. Many hope to see the initiative return in the near future, given its promising results thus far. -- 2024-12-11

Concerns raised over blue-coloured residue on Thai chillies By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A Facebook user recently raised concerns after discovering a blue residue on chillies intended for drying, seeking advice from knowledgeable individuals. This incident highlighted the use of Mancozeb, a fungicide commonly applied to perishable vegetables prone to fungal attacks. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345938-concerns-raised-over-blue-coloured-residue-on-thai-chillies/#elControls_19440884_menu

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A Facebook user recently raised concerns after discovering a blue residue on chillies intended for drying, seeking advice from knowledgeable individuals. This incident highlighted the use of Mancozeb, a fungicide commonly applied to perishable vegetables prone to fungal attacks. The user shared their experience in an online consumer group, describing how they purchased chillies from the market, packaged in bags, for making dried chillies. Upon wiping the chillies before washing, they noticed a blue-green hue on the surface. Initially suspecting that the colour came from their hands, closer inspection revealed a coating on each chilli. Despite washing, the faint bluish tint persisted. The user expressed relief at having washed everything before cooking and sought answers from the community. Following the post, several Facebook users commented, suggesting that the substance was likely Mancozeb. This fungicide is widely used on vegetables susceptible to decay and fungal diseases. Europe has banned the use of Mancozeb due to its potential risks to reproductive health and dangers to infants. It is classified as a Category 1B reproductive toxin and is known to disrupt the endocrine system in humans. Additionally, the chemical poses significant threats to aquatic life. The blue-green residue on the chilli peppers is similar to previous reports about onions with a similar tint, which left a coloured stain when touched. While washing fruits and vegetables with plain water can remove some Mancozeb residue, using certain substances like hydrogen peroxide, chlorine dioxide, or peeling the produce can enhance the removal process. Heat treatment after washing can also be effective in eliminating the fungicide. Consumers are advised to avoid purchasing produce with such visible residues. Although not yet banned in some regions, consumer pressure could compel producers and sellers to discontinue its use. A decline in sales of affected produce might force a change in practices if consumer demand drops, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-11

Thai masseuse pleads for justice amid singer’s tragic death By Bob Scott Photo via ThaiRath The seasoned Thai masseuse entangled in a whirlpool of controversy following the untimely death of luk thung singer Chayada “Phing” Praohom in the heart of Udon Thani, appealed for justice. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345680-massage-parlour-visits-turn-fatal-singaporean-tourist-and-thai-singer-die/page/2/#findComment-19440877

Thai masseuse pleads for justice amid singer’s tragic death By Bob Scott Photo via ThaiRath The seasoned Thai masseuse entangled in a whirlpool of controversy following the untimely death of luk thung singer Chayada “Phing” Praohom in the heart of Udon Thani, appealed for justice. The 20 year old Thai singer tragically succumbed two months after a controversial neck-twisting procedure. While an autopsy has cleared the massage of blame, questions and suspicions still linger. Chayada, affectionately known to her fans as “Phing Chayada,” was just 20 when she first sought relief for her stiff neck in early October, reportedly visiting the parlour three times. The masseuse, known only as Aoy, who has been practising for years with a legitimate licence, was staggered to learn of Chayada’s death and her link to it. “I was so shocked when I heard that I was that masseuse. I am asking for fairness and am ready to prove the truth.” The massage parlour boasts seven certified therapists, each having diligently completed the necessary 150-hour training. According to Dr Somchaichot Piyawatwela from Udon Thani’s public health office, the young singer succumbed to sepsis and a fungal infection, with no direct connection between the massage and her tragic end. Backing this, Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin pointed to MRI results negating any cervical issues. “Modern medical technology shows no link between the massage and her condition.” Media reports chart a harrowing timeline for Chayada, starting with neck pains after her October 5 visit to the massage parlour, and culminating in severe weakness and her admission to the ICU by November 22. Her battle ended on December 8, when she was overtaken by septic shock. Minister Somsak insists on maintaining credibility in Thai traditional medicine and massage through rigorous quality control. Meanwhile, a family insider reveals that Chayada’s mother still harbours doubts about the neck manipulation’s role but has chosen not to pursue another autopsy. As this story unfolds, the quest for truth and justice continues, underlining the importance of transparency and fairness for all involved. Chayada’s cremation is scheduled for tomorrow, December 12. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-11