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File photo for reference only Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong announced an exciting development yesterday: over 20 new drugs have been added to the national list of essential medicines. This list ensures that essential treatments—such as injectable drugs for severe psychiatric conditions, smoking cessation aids, and abortion drugs within legal limits—remain free for patients in need. This expansion is part of a broader strategy to increase access to crucial medications and promote public health across the nation. In addition to boosting availability, the National Drug System Development Committee revealed the new median pricing for 53 drugs, poised to save the government approximately 170 million baht. This strategic pricing adjustment reflects a concerted effort to manage healthcare costs effectively while maximising benefits to the populace. Furthermore, the committee unveiled a plan to accelerate Thailand's health product economy, setting the stage for increased investment in production. Focusing on biological medicines, herbal products, and cutting-edge medical devices, this policy aims to foster innovation and attract co-investment in the healthcare sector. Prasert highlighted the high market potential for health products, particularly those supported by robust research and development. These include advanced medical tools, herbal extracts, and AI-enabled medical devices, showcasing Thailand's commitment to becoming a regional leader in health technology and services. -- 2024-12-05

Loei police seize 90 bikes in street racing crackdown By Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Loei province have cracked down on illegal street racing over a nine-day operation, seizing nearly 100 modified motorcycles and issuing numerous legal actions against offenders. The operation aimed to curb the public nuisance and safety hazards posed by these activities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345447-loei-police-seize-90-bikes-in-street-racing-crackdown/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Nattapong Westwood Police in Loei province have cracked down on illegal street racing over a nine-day operation, seizing nearly 100 modified motorcycles and issuing numerous legal actions against offenders. The operation aimed to curb the public nuisance and safety hazards posed by these activities. Police in Loei province, including the Provincial Governor Chaipoj Jarunpong and Police Major General Phongpipat Siripornviwat, held a press conference to announce the results of the operation conducted from November 21 to November 29. The initiative, named Police Loei: Trim the Cat’s Whiskers, involved 19 police stations across 14 districts, and the Provincial Investigation Unit. During the operation, loud exhaust pipes were seized, with a road roller brought in to destroy over 200 of them today. Pol. Maj. Gen. Phongpipat explained that the coordinated effort was necessary because Loei is a popular tourist destination, drawing many visitors who deserve a safe and peaceful environment. By setting up checkpoints and patrols in areas where street racing is likely to occur, such as near educational institutions, motorcycle modification shops, and convenience stores, the operation aimed to prevent accidents and disturbances. The operation yielded significant results. Police confiscated 90 illegally modified motorcycles and 192 loud exhaust pipes. They imposed fines and took legal action against 91 individuals for modifying their vehicles and driving recklessly, endangering others. Additionally, 126 were caught driving noisy motorcycles on public roads, and 37 modification or accessory shops were inspected. Legal action was taken against 134 individuals for vehicle alterations, 57 for obstructive driving, five for reckless driving, and 368 for not possessing a driving licence. Street racing Furthermore, 227 were found to have allowed others to use their driving licenses, and 179 vehicles had incomplete equipment or lacked proper vehicle accessories. Loei’s police issued a stern warning to the youth involved in these activities, urging them not to break the law. “Street racing and related activities are serious offences under the Road Traffic Act, with penalties including up to three months in prison and fines ranging from 2,000 to 10,000 baht (US$58 to 292),” they stated. Parents and guardians could also face legal consequences under the Child Protection Act for neglecting their duties if their children under 18 engage in illegal activities. This could result in a three-month prison sentence and a fine of up to 30,000 baht (US$878). The police also targeted establishments involved in modifying vehicles, with legal repercussions under the Industrial Product Standards Act. Offenders could face up to one month in prison and fines between 5,000 and 50,000 baht (US$146 to 1,463). Police emphasized the zero-tolerance policy towards vehicles with loud exhausts, modified for racing, or driven recklessly, which are considered a societal nuisance. The police are committed to impounding such vehicles and prosecuting violators, reported KhaoSod. Residents are encouraged to report any street racing activities to local police stations or the 191 emergency hotline, available 24 hours a day. All police stations in Loei Province are actively engaged in monitoring, inspecting, and preventing these illegal activities to ensure community safety and peace. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-05

Family dispute turns deadly as man shoots uncle-in-law in Nonthaburi By Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of siamrath A 25 year old man, Chakraphan, fatally shot his uncle-in-law, 34 year old Chakrawat, in a heated altercation during a mealtime gathering. The incident unfolded late last night in front of a construction workers’ dormitory in Ban Mai, Bang Yai, Nonthaburi. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345446-family-dispute-turns-deadly-as-man-shoots-uncle-in-law-in-nonthaburi/

Picture courtesy of siamrath By Nattapong Westwood A 25 year old man, Chakraphan, fatally shot his uncle-in-law, 34 year old Chakrawat, in a heated altercation during a mealtime gathering. The incident unfolded late last night in front of a construction workers’ dormitory in Ban Mai, Bang Yai, Nonthaburi. Police from Bang Mae Nang swiftly apprehended Chakraphan after the shooting yesterday, December 4. Chakraphan’s mother, 50 year old Phattharathida, visited him in custody yesterday, bringing food and drinks. She explained that the family couldn’t afford to post bail for her son, who was scheduled for a court appearance in Nonthaburi later that afternoon. Phattharathida recounted that her son intended to join his uncle-in-law and friends for a conversation when tensions flared. The group incited an argument, leading to a confrontation. Chakraphan attempted to hit his uncle-in-law with a bottle, but it was snatched away by one of his friends. Subsequently, Chakraphan was attacked, prompting him to retrieve a gun from his room and fire a single shot at his uncle-in-law. “My son acted in self-defence after being attacked,” Phattharathida explained, adding that a group of five individuals, armed with knives and sticks, pursued her son, causing injuries to his fingers, face, and head. She witnessed the altercation from her room and intervened to prevent further harm to her son, unaware at the time that Chakraphan had already shot his uncle-in-law. Phattharathida said the relationship between her son and the uncle-in-law had always been strained, but never violent, and dismissed claims of cannabis-induced paranoia, noting that her son rarely used the substance. Phattharathida also revealed that Chakraphan had a history of mental health issues, receiving treatment for several years after a breakup when he was 17 years old. He had stopped taking medication in the past five years, claiming to be cured. She described him as a hot-tempered, introverted person who disliked interference in his life. Phattharathida urged for fairness, noting her son had been threatened repeatedly, leading him to acquire a gun for self-defence. Chakraphan’s former employer, Saichon Nitkham, expressed concern about the family’s lack of resources and legal knowledge. He pledged to assist by finding a lawyer to ensure Chakraphan receives a fair trial, reported KhaoSod. Saichon dismissed allegations of cannabis use, having previously conducted background and drug checks before employing Chakraphan. He emphasised that Chakraphan had no history of conflict with anyone else, except his uncle-in-law, and had resorted to buying a gun due to constant threats. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-05

Two Arrested for Luring Tribal Girls into Bangkok Sex Trade File photo for reference only In a significant breakthrough, Thai police have detained two young women for allegedly ensnaring 25 underage tribal girls from northern Thailand into a sordid sex trade in Bangkok, catering primarily to Chinese clients. This development emerges from a focused operation by the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (ATPD), aimed at crippling human trafficking networks exploiting vulnerable minors. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345443-two-arrested-for-luring-tribal-girls-into-bangkok-sex-trade/

File photo for reference only In a significant breakthrough, Thai police have detained two young women for allegedly ensnaring 25 underage tribal girls from northern Thailand into a sordid sex trade in Bangkok, catering primarily to Chinese clients. This development emerges from a focused operation by the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (ATPD), aimed at crippling human trafficking networks exploiting vulnerable minors. Nalatporn, aged 22, was apprehended at a massage parlour in Suphan Buri province, while Panida, 21, was arrested at a condominium in the bustling Huai Khwang district of Bangkok. The Criminal Court had earlier issued warrants for their arrests due to their roles in procuring young girls aged 15 to 18 for prostitution, thereby thriving on the illegal flesh trade. This arrest is a continuation of efforts dating back to the previous year's apprehensions, where five women under 18 were detained for similar offences within the same trafficking network. Reports reveal that the suspects lured these girls from Mae Hong Son with promises, providing them with mobile phones and leisure trips around Bangkok, only to subsequently force them into prostitution at high-end hotels. Investigations uncovered distressing details, including exorbitant payments from Chinese customers - up to 200,000 baht for virgins, and half for others. Some of these girls faced violent assaults by customers, amplifying the gravity of the crime. Following the confession of Nalatporn and Panida to all charges, they are now under police custody, facing judicial proceedings. This case highlights the persistent challenge of human trafficking in Thailand, with authorities remaining vigilant to safeguard vulnerable groups against this heinous crime. -- 2024-12-05

Thai Rail Services Partially Restored After Flood Disruptions File photo for reference only Floods in southern Thailand recently left rail services disrupted, impacting connectivity. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has swiftly acted, repairing damaged tracks in Phatthalung province and now allowing trains to resume operations at Hat Yai Junction. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345380-thai-rail-services-partially-restored-after-flood-disruptions/

File photo for reference only Floods in southern Thailand recently left rail services disrupted, impacting connectivity. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has swiftly acted, repairing damaged tracks in Phatthalung province and now allowing trains to resume operations at Hat Yai Junction. Several routes connecting Bangkok and Hat Yai Junction, such as Special Express 31 and 37, and freight services 985 and 986, have restarted, signalling a step toward normalcy. Additional services include Rapid trains running between Yala, Sungai Kolok, and Bangkok, ensuring vital passenger connections. Despite the progress, repairs between Hat Yai Junction and Yala are ongoing. Certain services like Special Express 38 and select local lines are operating from Hat Yai Junction to their destinations as work continues further south. The partial restoration of rail services marks an essential recovery phase, particularly for communities reliant on this connectivity. The SRT remains focused on achieving full service restoration, with updates to follow as repairs advance. -- 2024-12-04

Unesco Visits Ayutthaya Rail: Heritage Impact Talks Ahead File photo for reference only Unesco experts are scheduled to visit the Ayutthaya segment of Thailand's high-speed rail project next month, focusing on the Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) due to its proximity to the Ayutthaya Historical Park. While the experts will provide guidance on preserving this world heritage site, they lack the authority to halt construction of the station situated 1.5 kilometres away. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has been asked to proceed with an HIA report without stopping work on the project. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345379-unesco-visits-ayutthaya-rail-heritage-impact-talks-ahead/

File photo for reference only Unesco experts are scheduled to visit the Ayutthaya segment of Thailand's high-speed rail project next month, focusing on the Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) due to its proximity to the Ayutthaya Historical Park. While the experts will provide guidance on preserving this world heritage site, they lack the authority to halt construction of the station situated 1.5 kilometres away. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has been asked to proceed with an HIA report without stopping work on the project. The 13.3-kilometre rail link between Ban Pho and Phra Kaeo in Ayutthaya is approaching contract finalisation, with signing anticipated soon by the Transport Ministry and contractor Boonchaipanich. Notably, the report will go to Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, expecting to continue overseeing the project from his deputy, Surapong Piyachote. This section forms part of the 700-kilometre Sino-Thai high-speed railway, stretching from Bangkok to Nong Khai. The project employs a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Gross Cost Investment model, inspired by the MRT Purple Line's budgeting success. The Ministry aims to include a second phase to extend the line, proposing a 357.12-kilometre track from Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai to the cabinet soon. -- 2024-12-04

Thai Tax Strategy Revamp: VAT Hike, Income Tax Cuts Proposed File photo for reference only Thailand's Finance Minister, Pichai Chunhavajira, has unveiled a bold shift in the nation's tax strategy to strengthen state revenue and boost its economic position. At the heart of this plan is an increase in the value-added tax (VAT), from the current 7% to potentially 10%. This move aims to balance a reduction in corporate and personal income tax rates, thereby driving national development and realigning economic competitiveness. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345378-thai-tax-strategy-revamp-vat-hike-income-tax-cuts-proposed/

File photo for reference only Thailand's Finance Minister, Pichai Chunhavajira, has unveiled a bold shift in the nation's tax strategy to strengthen state revenue and boost its economic position. At the heart of this plan is an increase in the value-added tax (VAT), from the current 7% to potentially 10%. This move aims to balance a reduction in corporate and personal income tax rates, thereby driving national development and realigning economic competitiveness. The backdrop to this strategy includes the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development's new guidelines urging a 15% minimum corporate tax. Thailand's existing corporate rate stands at 20%, but a proposed cut to 15% is on the table to remain globally competitive. Speaking at the Sustainability Forum 2025, Pichai highlighted the necessity for these adjustments in light of international tax trends and workforce mobility challenges. Reducing the current top personal income tax rate of 35% to a flat 15% is under discussion, aimed at attracting foreign talent and addressing the low tax base. Meanwhile, the VAT increase is positioned as a means to even out consumption tax disparities while broadening the revenue base, a move potentially beneficial to low-income groups if implemented judiciously. In many countries, the VAT ranges between 15% and 25%, suggesting Thailand could leverage this as a financial advantage. Pichai also pointed out the potential for invigorating Thailand’s investment climate, particularly in green energy sectors, by aligning fiscal policies with social equality goals. With domestic and international interest on the rise, evidenced by investment projects totalling over 700 billion baht in the past nine months, the government anticipates reaching an investment value of 1 trillion baht by year’s end. The Minister detailed the importance of synchronising monetary policy to maintain low interest rates while tackling inflation concerns—they forecast inflation to stay below 1% this year, providing scope for the central bank to potentially reduce interest rates. Additionally, Pichai addressed the complexities of weakening the Thai baht, acknowledging the balancing act of retaining foreign investor confidence while managing currency value strategically. He concluded by advocating for an increase in national savings to address challenges posed by Thailand’s ageing population, warning of potential risks if social security and provident fund savings dwindle quickly post-retirement. This comprehensive fiscal policy realignment aims not only to enhance economic growth but also to sustain it in the long term. -- 2024-12-04

Myth of "Incomplete Blood" Causing Sleepiness Debunked by Experts File photo for reference only Rajavithi Hospital in Thailand has debunked claims linking post-meal sleepiness and bloating to "incomplete blood". The institution clarified that these symptoms are natural bodily responses rather than signs of a deficiency. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345377-myth-of-incomplete-blood-causing-sleepiness-debunked-by-experts/

File photo for reference only Rajavithi Hospital in Thailand has debunked claims linking post-meal sleepiness and bloating to "incomplete blood". The institution clarified that these symptoms are natural bodily responses rather than signs of a deficiency. The myth gained traction after an online post suggested that a taut stomach and post-meal drowsiness result from "incomplete blood". Experts at Rajavithi Hospital assert that post-meal sleepiness, known as postprandial somnolence, is due to physiological factors. These could include increased brain blood sugar levels influencing brain activity and the release of substances like interleukins or cytokines. Foods high in carbohydrates and fats can amplify these effects. Therefore, balancing meals with moderate portions and fibrous foods is advisable to minimize drowsiness after eating. Notably, this sleepiness has no connection to any blood deficiencies. Regarding bloating or a tight stomach after meals, these are generally uncommon and could signal underlying health issues. Such symptoms may involve various organs, pointing to conditions like peptic ulcers or irritable bowel syndrome—not "incomplete blood". Rajavithi Hospital urges the public to rely on verified information and discourages spreading unsubstantiated claims online. For trustworthy updates, individuals should visit the hospital's official website or contact their hotline. -- 2024-12-04

Bangkok Ranks 12th in World Air Pollution Amidst Rising PM2.5 Levels File photo for reference only Today, Bangkok is grappling with severe air pollution, as the city ranks 12th on the global pollution index, according to the latest IQ Air report. The capital's air is thick with hazardous PM2.5 particles, with monitoring indicating high concentrations across 63 areas, particularly affecting the Nong Khaem district. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345374-bangkok-ranks-12th-in-world-air-pollution-amidst-rising-pm25-levels/

File photo for reference only Today, Bangkok is grappling with severe air pollution, as the city ranks 12th on the global pollution index, according to the latest IQ Air report. The capital's air is thick with hazardous PM2.5 particles, with monitoring indicating high concentrations across 63 areas, particularly affecting the Nong Khaem district. In the world's rankings, Baghdad tops the list, with an alarming Air Quality Index (AQI) of 278, followed by Cairo and Dhaka. Bangkok's AQI registers at 159, placing it just behind Wuhan in China. Data from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s Air Quality Information Centre reveals that PM2.5 levels today vary substantially, ranging from 34.3µg/m³ to a concerning 74.3µg/m³. The worst-affected areas include Nong Khaem district, peaking at 74.6µg/m³, alongside Tawee Wattana, Khlong San, Phasi Charoen, and Samphanthawong districts, each exhibiting dangerously high pollution levels. Residents are advised to take precautions, especially vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly, as the city faces ongoing air quality challenges. City officials urge the public to stay informed, limit outdoor activities, and use protective measures when necessary. Efforts to address this environmental crisis remain imperative as Bangkok continues to battle with air quality concerns. -- 2024-12-04

Man in Bang Bua Thong accused of sexually assaulting young girl By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A deeply disturbing incident unfolded in Bang Bua Thong where a 50 year old man allegedly lured a 13 year old girl into his home under the pretext of playing with his cats before attempting to sexually assault her. The distressing event came to light when the girl’s blind grandmother, along with a neighbour, reported the matter to the local police. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345373-man-in-bang-bua-thong-accused-of-sexually-assaulting-young-girl/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee A deeply disturbing incident unfolded in Bang Bua Thong where a 50 year old man allegedly lured a 13 year old girl into his home under the pretext of playing with his cats before attempting to sexually assault her. The distressing event came to light when the girl’s blind grandmother, along with a neighbour, reported the matter to the local police. The incident occurred yesterday evening when the girl’s grandmother, 51 year old Nid (pseudonym), and a neighbour, 70 year old Noi (pseudonym), accompanied the young girl to file a complaint with the police. The victim, referred to as A (pseudonym), is a fifth-grade student. They reported the alleged assault to Police Colonel Phruet Jamroonsat, stating that the neighbour had sexually assaulted the young girl at his residence. The neighbour in question, identified only as Kit (pseudonym), works as a motorcycle vendor. The initial report indicates that A, along with another girl from the same village, B (pseudonym), aged nine, had been invited to Kit’s house. B had asked A to join her in playing with Kit’s cats. Upon arrival, Kit allegedly kissed both girls and then lured A into the kitchen, where he reportedly sexually assaulted her. After the incident, Kit gave both girls 30 baht each and sent them home. It is alleged that this was not an isolated event, with the assaults having taken place approximately four times. Later that same day, B invited A to Kit’s house once again. Kit attempted to assault A in the kitchen but the girl cried out in pain, leading him to stop. He once again gave them money before sending them away. Child assault Nid, the grandmother, revealed that A’s parents had abandoned her at a young age, leaving Nid, who is blind, to care for her alone. Nid works as a traditional masseuse in Pak Kret and leaves A in the care of Noi while she is at work. Upon learning of the alleged assault on her granddaughter, Nid hurried back to assist in filing the report. Noi, who had been looking after A, received a message from one of A’s friends about the incident. After confirming the details with A, she promptly informed Nid, leading to the police report. Pol. Col. Phruet confirmed the grandmother’s report of the assault and has involved the Child and Family Shelter officials in the investigation. The victim will undergo a medical examination to assess any injuries, and further interviews will be conducted in the presence of experts. Varin Veerasunthorn, head of the Child and Family Shelter in Nonthaburi, stated that initial inquiries revealed multiple incidents of abuse. The caregivers had been unaware of the situation due to their visual impairment and work commitments. The victim, described as a reserved child, had not spoken up until the abuse had occurred several times. Varin emphasised the need for parental vigilance in the face of increasing reports of child abuse, especially among those under 15 years of age. She stressed the importance of recognising signs of distress in children and being attentive to their accounts. In this case, the victim’s lack of familial warmth, owing to her parents’ absence, was highlighted as a contributing factor. The shelter plans to document the incident officially and arrange for the victim to receive medical care at Phra Nang Klao Hospital. Following this, she will be taken into protective custody at the Child and Family Shelter in Nonthaburi, reported KhaoSod. The police are determined to pursue legal action against the perpetrator, whose identity has been confirmed, following the law. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-04

Phuket Red Cross urges blood donations as tourist season begins By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of PRBC viaPhuket News The Phuket branch of the Red Cross Society and Vachira Phuket Hospital have made an urgent appeal for blood donations, particularly as the tourist High Season begins. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345372-phuket-red-cross-urges-blood-donations-as-tourist-season-begins/

Photo courtesy of PRBC viaPhuket News By Puntid Tantivangphaisal The Phuket branch of the Red Cross Society and Vachira Phuket Hospital have made an urgent appeal for blood donations, particularly as the tourist High Season begins. With the approach of King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s birthday, which is also observed as Thailand National Day and Father’s Day, special blood donation events are planned for tomorrow, December 5. This date holds significant national importance and serves as a fitting occasion to encourage the community to contribute to this critical need. The demand for Rh-negative blood remains particularly high. While Thai donors typically supply Rh-positive blood, it is predominantly foreigners who can provide the much-needed Rh-negative blood. This is crucial during the tourist high season when the number of accidents, particularly involving tourists on motorbikes, tends to increase, thereby escalating the demand for blood supplies, reported Phuket News. Phuket’s Red Cross branch is actively organising mobile blood donation drives throughout the month to ensure a steady supply. The schedule includes: December 4: Maritime Park & Spa Resort, Krabi from 8.30am to 2pm December 5: Phuket branch of the Red Cross in Wichit from 9am to 3.30pm December 6: Credit Union Ratsada Phuket Cooperative Ltd from 9am to 1pm and Lotus’s shopping centre, Thalang from 12pm to 6pm December 7: Robinson Lifestyle Mall, Chalong from 11am to 3pm December 9: Krabi Municipal School, Krabi from 9.30am to 1pm December 11: Takua Pa Senanukul School, Phang Nga from 9am to 12pm December 13: Paradise Group, The Plaza Surin, Phuket from 9am to 3pm December 16: Honda Taimuang, Phang Nga from 9am to 3pm December 17: Satree Phuket School, Phuket from 10am to 2pm and Siam Makro, Wichit from 1pm to 4pm December 18: Plai Phraya District Office, Krabi from 9.30am to 1pm December 19: Angsana Laguna Phuket Hotel, Thalang from 10am to 3pm and The Nature Phuket Hotel, Kathu from 1pm to 4pm December 21 to 22: Phuket Rajabhat University from 9am to 3pm December 24: Phuket Vocational College from 9am to 3pm and GWM Phuket, Kathu from 1pm to 4pm December 25: Central Phuket Floresta from 12pm to 6pm and Phuket Provincial Prison from 10am to 2pm December 26: Bangkok Hospital Phuket from 1pm to 5pm and Lotus’s shopping centre, Thalang from 12pm to 6pm December 27: Khok Kloi Farmers’ Group Office from 9am to 12pm December 28: Duangjitt Resort Hotel, Kathu from 10am to 3pm Vachira Hospital’s blood bank is also conducting mobile donation drives with the following schedule: December 4: Limelight Phuket, Phuket Town from 10am to 4pm December 5: Limelight Phuket, Phuket Town from 10am to 6pm December 6: The Nap Hotel, Patong from 1pm to 4pm December 11: Phuket Provincial Police headquarters from 10am to 3pm December 12: Provincial Electricity Authority, Patong from 10am to 3pm December 13: Siriyanyon Phuket Co from 10am to 3pm December 15: Lard Yai Walking Street from 3pm to 8pm December 17: Karon Municipality from 10am to 3pm December 18: Phuket Graceland Resort & Spa, Patong from 10am to 3pm December 19: Cherng Talay Municipality from 10am to 3pm December 23: Rosewood Phuket hotel from 10am to 3pm December 24: Provincial Electricity Authority, Thalang from 10am to 3pm Donors are encouraged to visit the Phuket Regional Blood Centre, situated at 38/193 Rattanakosin 200 Pi Road in Talad Neua, Phuket Town. The centre operates on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8.30am to 4.30pm, Tuesday and Thursday from 8.30am to 8pm, and on weekends and public holidays from 9am to 3pm. For further details, the PRBC can be contacted via phone at 076-251178 or through their Facebook page. The Blood Bank at Vachira Phuket Hospital, located on the fourth floor of the outpatient building on Yaowarat Road, is open at all times for donations. Potential donors can reach them at 076-361234 ext 1287 or via their Facebook page for more information. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-04

Bangkok traffic cop under fire for fine collection via tuk tuk driver - video By Petch Petpailin Photo via TikTok/ @talkwiththepolice Concerns over corruption arose after a Bangkok traffic police officer was caught in a viral video instructing a motorist to pay a fine through the bank account of a tuk tuk driver. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345371-bangkok-traffic-cop-under-fire-for-fine-collection-via-tuk-tuk-driver-video/

Photo via TikTok/ @talkwiththepolice By Petch Petpailin Concerns over corruption arose after a Bangkok traffic police officer was caught in a viral video instructing a motorist to pay a fine through the bank account of a tuk tuk driver. The alleged misconduct came to light after a TikTok account, Talk with the Police, shared a video of the questionable incident at the end of November. The caption accompanying the video read… “New system: scan to pay via tuk tuk driver. Is this legal? This occurred at the Pratunam Intersection. Don’t think no one notices your actions. Stopping drivers and asking them to pay through a tuk tuk driver. What does this mean, sir?” In the footage, the officer is seen stopping a white BMW sedan. After a brief conversation with the driver, the officer appears to involve a nearby tuk tuk driver. The tuk tuk driver then approaches the BMW with his mobile phone and hands it to the driver. Shortly afterwards, the BMW is allowed to continue on its way. According to standard procedure, traffic police are required to issue a ticket detailing the violation and instruct motorists to either pay the fine in cash or settle it at the designated police station. Motorists also have the option to pay online via the official website or applications such as the Khub Dee or Pao Tang (เป๋าตัง) applications, or by transferring the amount directly to an official Royal Thai Police bank account. Payment through a third party, such as a tuk tuk driver, is not part of the approved process. Local confirms corruption A local, identified as Chai, told Channel 3 that he was unsurprised by the incident, claiming that alleged corruption by traffic police in the area has been an open secret for years. Chai noted that officers routinely manned the spot for over two decades, targeting drivers who unwittingly violate unclear traffic rules at the intersection. “The vehicles they fine are those crossing the intersection, even though it’s now allowed. But they haven’t put up clear signs to inform drivers. It seems deliberate, to create opportunities for issuing fines” The incident occurred within the jurisdiction of Phayathai Police Station. Superintendent Watcharawee Thammasaema informed the media that an investigation is underway. Watcharawee stressed that motorists are not permitted to pay fines on the spot and must do so at the police station. He confirmed that the officer in the video was identified and temporarily removed from his post pending the outcome of the investigation. The officer reportedly denied personally taking the fines. However, Superintendent Watcharawee has not yet explained why the payment was facilitated through the tuk tuk driver. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-04

Brew-haha: Coffee shop clash near Chanthaburi temple boils over By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A dispute over the ownership of a coffee shop near a temple in Chanthaburi province escalated into a chaotic confrontation, with people vandalising property and engaging in public altercations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345370-brew-haha-coffee-shop-clash-near-chanthaburi-temple-boils-over/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A dispute over the ownership of a coffee shop near a temple in Chanthaburi province escalated into a chaotic confrontation, with people vandalising property and engaging in public altercations. The incident at Ko Proet Temple in Laem Sing district saw a group of people demolishing a wall and removing signage, all of which was captured by CCTV cameras. This conflict stems from a long-standing disagreement over land rights associated with the café situated within the temple’s grounds. Footage from the scene depicts both parties involved in the café business hurling insults and claiming ownership rights, before resorting to physical violence in plain view of police and local administrative officials. Despite attempts by officials, including the village head and deputies, to mediate, the altercation continued unabated across the temple grounds, much to the dismay of onlookers visiting the temple for worship. The aftermath of the incident yesterday, December 3 prompted Lieutenant Pitak Anuphutthi, Deputy Inspector of Ko Proet Police Station, to investigate following a report from Phra Kru Singkhet Phawanakhun, the deputy abbot of Ko Proet Temple. The deputy abbot led the police to the scene where the wall had been smashed and signage had been dismantled, with broken cement blocks scattered around the vicinity. Phra Kru Singkhet explained that the temple had erected a temporary wall using three layers of cement blocks, accompanied by a sign declaring the area as a “juristic person zone” and a “no-harm sanctuary,” in an effort to maintain peace. This measure was taken after previous altercations between the two feuding groups over land rights had intensified, culminating in a violent incident in late October. At approximately 6am yesterday, Bunrit Selanont, the temple caretaker, discovered the destruction of the wall and found debris discarded about 30 metres away. Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage to identify and apprehend the perpetrators, and to prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law. This situation has caused significant concern within the community and adversely affected the temple’s reputation. “The temple had no choice but to build a temporary wall to prevent further conflict.” The conflict has not only disrupted the peace within the temple grounds but has also become a point of anxiety for the locals who frequent the temple. The police are determined to bring those responsible for the vandalism to justice, hoping that legal action will deter further disturbances and restore harmony in the area, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-04