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Picture courtesy of sondhitalk By Bright Choomanee A major crackdown on a digital wallet scam involving 2 billion baht resulted in the arrest of eight people accused of orchestrating an online stock trading fraud. Law enforcement seized assets worth 80 million baht, including luxurious properties and vehicles. Police at the Central Investigation Bureau, led by Jiraphop Phuridej, held a press conference detailing the arrests of 36 year old Sayan, 21 year old Suthi, 24 year old Paphawin, 28 year old Pongphet, 20 year old Ngamsiri, 47 year old Suwannee, 37 year old Jumei, and 19 year old Atthaporn. These individuals face charges of participating in a transnational criminal organisation, operating a secret society, fraudulently impersonating others, providing false computer information, and money laundering. Victims had earlier reported being lured into fake Facebook pages promising lucrative returns on online stock trading. Misled by the false promises, they transferred money to the fraudsters multiple times, collectively suffering losses amounting to approximately 3,800,000 baht (US$110,617). Investigations revealed that the defrauded funds were converted into cryptocurrency (USDT) using the Binance platform and further transferred to different digital wallets. The ill-gotten gains were subsequently transformed into various high-value assets such as luxury houses, condominiums, land deeds, and vehicles. Wallet scam Law enforcement secured arrest warrants for 12 suspects, which included four individuals managing bank and cryptocurrency mule accounts, three brokers facilitating mule accounts and cross-border movements, two office workers responsible for facial scans and managing residences in Poipet, and three individuals involved in money laundering and receiving illicit benefits. Adtip, a senior officer, explained that Operation CyberGuardian was launched to apprehend the suspects. The operation involved searches across seven locations, including Nakhon Ratchasima, Tak, Songkhla, and Bangkok, resulting in the arrest of eight suspects. Among these were three mule account operators, two brokers and three individuals engaged in money laundering and receiving illegal profits. Seized assets included a luxury house valued at 27 million baht (US$785,717), two vehicles, four upscale condominiums, and multiple land deeds in Phuket, Tak, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai. Additionally, police confiscated over 600,000 baht (US$17,460) in cash, gold bars, and numerous branded handbags, totalling assets worth 80 million baht (US$2.3 million), reported KhaoSod. “The digital wallets used by the fraudsters have been utilized to receive cryptocurrency from deceived victims in this and other cases, accumulating over 2 billion baht (US$58 million),” revealed Chitsanuphong, an investigating officer. The group is suspected of operating similar scams across the border in a neighbouring country, near Aranyaprathet district, Sa Kaeo province. All eight suspects, along with the seized evidence, have been handed over to the investigation unit for further legal proceedings. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-04

Thailand’s PM champions disability rights on International Day By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra delivered a heartfelt message on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, reaffirming her government’s commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunities for all. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345286-thailand’s-pm-champions-disability-rights-on-international-day/

Photo courtesy of The Nation By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra delivered a heartfelt message on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, reaffirming her government’s commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunities for all. Celebrated annually on December 3, the day marks a significant call to action for societies to dismantle barriers and ensure the dignity and rights of individuals with disabilities are respected. Equal opportunities was a central theme of the 38 year old Thai PM’s address, as she outlined the government’s ongoing efforts to integrate people with disabilities into all aspects of society. She pointed out that government policies are meticulously designed to safeguard the rights of people with disabilities and their families, offering access to vital resources, economic opportunities, justice, public services, and social security benefits. Highlighting the importance of collaboration across all sectors, the Thai premier stressed the need for a collective effort to break down the barriers that often restrict the lives of those with disabilities, reported The Nation. “On this occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I would like to send my encouragement to all people with disabilities and their families. “Please trust that the government will take care of everyone, ensuring that they can live and access basic welfare equally so that every person with disabilities can live happily, with inspiration, and fully utilise their potential.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-03

Cannabis store HR officer slaps worker amid alleged embezzlement - video By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Social Hunter 2022 Former employees of a cannabis retail chain accused managers and a human resources (HR) officer of falsely accusing them of embezzlement and extorting money. The HR officer also reportedly physically assaulted one of the workers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345285-cannabis-store-hr-officer-slaps-worker-amid-alleged-embezzlement-video/

Photo via Facebook/ Social Hunter 2022 By Petch Petpailin Former employees of a cannabis retail chain accused managers and a human resources (HR) officer of falsely accusing them of embezzlement and extorting money. The HR officer also reportedly physically assaulted one of the workers. Two Thai men, who previously worked for the cannabis company, shared CCTV footage with the Facebook news page Social Hunter 2022. The footage shows a female HR officer slapping a colleague in the face. In the video, four managers dressed in black shirts, the HR officer in a green shirt, and the victim in a white shirt are visible. The video depicts the managers gathering around the worker in the white shirt, who is seen arguing with the HR officer. During the exchange, the HR officer is heard saying… “You can complain to anyone but not Ben.” The worker began to respond but was interrupted when the HR officer slapped him in the face and walked away. It was later reported that “Ben” is one of the company’s shareholders. The two former employees, who shared the video with the public, also spoke to Hone Krasae, revealing that the HR team reportedly uncovered embezzlement during a special promotional campaign and accused all 30 workers of being involved. The HR officer and managers allegedly demanded to inspect the mobile phones of all employees to identify those responsible, as the company operates more than 11 shops nationwide. Crime evidence shared A suspicious message was reportedly found on the phone of the worker in the white shirt, who also allegedly made negative remarks about Ben. According to the whistle-blowers, the HR officer and managers demanded compensation of 100,000 baht from each worker accused of involvement. Those unable to pay were reportedly asked to contribute between 40,000 and 50,000 baht instead. Workers were also allegedly coerced into signing documents admitting guilt. Those who refused were forced to resign. The two former employees stated that they did not know whether the worker in the white shirt committed the crime or not. The HR officer, identified as Lek, defended her actions, claiming she discovered the embezzlement over the past five to six months and already provided evidence to the police. She admitted to slapping the worker but justified it as a response to his harsh complaint about Ben. Lek accused every worker of being involved in the crime. They allegedly sold products at a normal price instead of offering a special discount according to the store’s promotion and then pocketed the difference. Lek insisted that she had never forced any employees to pay compensation, asserting that those who paid did so willingly. As of now, there have been no further updates on the incident from Thai news agencies. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-03

Phuket rolls out electric buses in bold push for greener island By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Phuket has just taken a major leap towards modernising its public transport with the launch of electric buses, marking the beginning of a cleaner, more sustainable future for the island. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345284-phuket-rolls-out-electric-buses-in-bold-push-for-greener-island/

Photo courtesy of Phuket News By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Phuket has just taken a major leap towards modernising its public transport with the launch of electric buses, marking the beginning of a cleaner, more sustainable future for the island. The historic moment occurred yesterday, December 2 at the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation (PPAO), where a ceremony was held to unveil the first trial buses. Governor Sophon Suwannarat and PPAO President Rewat Areerob led the event, signalling a new chapter in the island’s transportation revolution. Governor Sophon expressed his enthusiasm for the project, which he sees as a transformative step for the island’s transport network. “This project demonstrates the PPAO’s dedication to promoting clean technology and sustainable development. “It supports our vision of a Smart City, enhances tourism, and positively impacts Phuket’s image on the global stage.” The governor stressed that the EV buses would alleviate traffic congestion, reduce air pollution, and cater to all residents, including students, the elderly, disabled individuals, and tourists. The PPAO’s ambitious initiative aims to replace the island’s iconic pink buses, known as Pho Thong, with 24 new air-conditioned electric buses. These will serve three key routes, providing better access to tourist attractions, schools, and shopping areas, said PPAO President Rewat. “The EV bus project represents a forward-thinking solution, providing modern, efficient and safe transportation while reducing environmental impact.” The trial runs are taking place on the Saphan Hin to Central Phuket route, with three buses available for passengers to try out. Regular fares are set at 15 baht, with free rides for students, the elderly, disabled individuals, and monks. In a further boost to sustainable travel, the Phuket Smart Bus continues to grow in popularity, offering day passes for its expanding routes between Phuket Town and Patong, as well as to Rawai Beach, reported Phuket News. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-03

Thailand grants citizenship to 72 stateless individuals in Chiang Rai By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail A historic moment unfolded in Chiang Rai as Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra presented Thai citizenship cards to 72 individuals from ethnic minority groups, marking a monumental step towards addressing statelessness in the country. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345283-thailand-grants-citizenship-to-72-stateless-individuals-in-chiang-rai/

Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A historic moment unfolded in Chiang Rai as Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra presented Thai citizenship cards to 72 individuals from ethnic minority groups, marking a monumental step towards addressing statelessness in the country. The ceremony, held at the GMS International Convention and Exhibition Centre on Sunday, December 1, highlighted Thailand’s commitment to inclusivity and human rights, with key officials and representatives from international organisations, including the UNHCR, UNICEF, and IOM, in attendance. The event kicked off with a cultural performance celebrating Chiang Rai’s ethnic diversity before the 38 year old prime minister delivered an address. One of the new citizens could not contain his happiness. “We have waited for this moment for so long. Today, we feel truly Thai, and we are grateful to the government for seeing our importance.” PM Paetongtarn acknowledged the struggles of those who had lived in Thailand for decades without formal recognition, emphasising that the new citizenship status would provide access to vital services like healthcare, education, and state welfare. A key highlight was the announcement of new policies to expedite the citizenship application process. Under the revised framework, the waiting period for nationality requests will be drastically reduced—from 270 days to just five days for most cases. Stateless individuals born in Thailand will also benefit from the shorter waiting time, ensuring faster integration into society. Since 1984, Thailand has been working to address statelessness, yet over 500,000 individuals are still awaiting citizenship. The 38 year old Thai premier expressed her determination to tackle this issue, thanking international partners for their ongoing support. With smiles, laughter, and optimism, the ceremony embodied Thailand’s commitment to building a more inclusive future for all its residents, reported Pattaya Mail. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-03

Songkhla flood relief scare debunked amid robbery claims By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation The chief of Songkhla’s Thepha district has swiftly denied shocking allegations that villagers from the Tha Muang district robbed a team of volunteers delivering flood relief on Sunday, December 1. The accusations, made in a now-deleted social media post, caused widespread panic but officials insisted it was a misunderstanding. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345282-songkhla-flood-relief-scare-debunked-amid-robbery-claims/

Photo courtesy of The Nation By Puntid Tantivangphaisal The chief of Songkhla’s Thepha district has swiftly denied shocking allegations that villagers from the Tha Muang district robbed a team of volunteers delivering flood relief on Sunday, December 1. The accusations, made in a now-deleted social media post, caused widespread panic but officials insisted it was a misunderstanding. Traisulee Taisaranakul, the spokesperson for the Interior Ministry, revealed today that the claims of a group of 20 men attacking the rescue team were incorrect. Quoting district chief Ekkachai Kaewrattana, she clarified that the villagers simply asked for relief items and had not stolen anything. Ekkachai further explained that the loud manner in which southerners speak might have alarmed the volunteers, who misinterpreted the situation as an attempt to rob them. “The volunteers were startled. The villagers were only asking for necessities.” The incident began when a Songkhla social media influencer posted a call for help for the flood victims, prompting a swift response from Nakhon Si Thammarat’s Pracha Ruamjai Foundation. A team of volunteers arrived with essential supplies but once on-site some villagers approached the group hoping for aid. Ekkachai confirmed that the district chief spoke directly with the social media poster and the inflammatory post was removed. Channel 7 reported yesterday that the team, which had travelled in seven trucks, had to switch to boats to cross a submerged railway track. They claimed that 20 men surrounded them and demanded the supplies. As tensions escalated, more villagers reportedly helped themselves to the items, with some warning the team about the area’s dangers after dark. The district chief is now working with the influencer and the foundation to clarify the situation, ensuring the public receives the true account of events, reported The Nation. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-03

Phuket's Coral Revival: 3D-Printed Islands Aim to Save Reefs File photo for reference only In an innovative attempt to restore the coral reefs near Koh Racha Yai, south of Phuket, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) has launched its annual reef restoration campaign. Featuring 3D-printed coral larvae islands, this initiative seeks to rejuvenate the damaged seabed, unveiled on Saturday, November 30. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345281-phukets-coral-revival-3d-printed-islands-aim-to-save-reefs/

File photo for reference only In an innovative attempt to restore the coral reefs near Koh Racha Yai, south of Phuket, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) has launched its annual reef restoration campaign. Featuring 3D-printed coral larvae islands, this initiative seeks to rejuvenate the damaged seabed, unveiled on Saturday, November 30. The event was attended by key figures including DMCR Director-General Pinsak Suraswadi, and sustainability leaders from the Siam Cement Group (SCG) and Thai Union Group PCL. Pinsak emphasized the urgent need for coral restoration, citing its importance for marine biodiversity and the local diving tourism industry, which plays a crucial role in the economy. The Rak Talay project addresses the challenges posed by natural disasters, coral bleaching, and human activities, such as careless anchoring. It employs 3D printing technology to replicate natural coral structures, providing ideal growing conditions for young coral. Thai Union Group CEO Thiraphong Chansiri and Chana Phumi from SCG commended this innovative, eco-friendly approach. Adam Brennan, Thai Union’s Group Director of Sustainable Development, highlighted the project's role in strengthening biodiversity and encouraging collaboration between public and private sectors. The project builds on efforts initiated in 2020 when SCG first introduced the technology to Koh Racha Yai with eco-friendly materials matching the marine environment. By speeding up coral recovery and enhancing the underwater ecosystem, these efforts aim to sustain Thailand's marine tourism. The growing support for the DMCR’s 3D-printed coral initiative shows promising progress in ocean conservation. -- 2024-12-03

Thai PM Faces Criticism Over Inadequate Response to South Thailand Floods File photo for reference only Devastating floods in southern Thailand have put significant pressure on Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's government, leading to widespread criticism over her crisis management skills. The heavy flooding has caused havoc in the region, leading many to question the prime minister's ability to handle national emergencies effectively. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345280-thai-pm-faces-criticism-over-inadequate-response-to-south-thailand-floods/

File photo for reference only Devastating floods in southern Thailand have put significant pressure on Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's government, leading to widespread criticism over her crisis management skills. The heavy flooding has caused havoc in the region, leading many to question the prime minister's ability to handle national emergencies effectively. Initially struggling to establish her leadership in the north, the prime minister eventually set up the Flood, Storm, and Landslide Disaster Relief Operations Centre, following demands from various civil groups. However, her handling of the southern crisis has been seen as falling short of expectations. Adding to the controversy was a comment from the prime minister that quickly went viral. Instead of offering comfort to those affected, she stated, "Regarding claims of neglecting the south, my husband is from the south, and his family is southern. If I neglected or didn’t love the south, I couldn’t have married a southerner, could I?" This remark was widely viewed as insensitive and showed a lack of understanding of the seriousness of the situation, sparking further uproar among political rivals. Pukkamon Nunarnan, an opposition MP, commented, "Thai people do recognize the warmth and charm of the prime minister’s family, but personal matters should stay private. The public deserves professional leadership." Former MP Amarat Chokepamitkul accused the prime minister of a self-centered approach to the crisis. Adding to the scrutiny, former senator Wanchai Sornsiri advised the 38-year-old leader to rethink her public demeanor, including her choice of attire and her family’s involvement in government affairs. "If improvements aren’t made, it could soon have negative consequences," Sornsiri warned. -- 2024-12-03

Thai Authorities Bust Massive Illegal Cable Network Fueling Scam Operations File photo for reference only Thai authorities have dismantled a large illegal cable network used to support scam call centers operating across the Thai-Myanmar border. The network, stretching nearly three kilometers, is the largest of its kind ever uncovered in Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345279-thai-authorities-bust-massive-illegal-cable-network-fueling-scam-operations/

File photo for reference only Thai authorities have dismantled a large illegal cable network used to support scam call centers operating across the Thai-Myanmar border. The network, stretching nearly three kilometers, is the largest of its kind ever uncovered in Thailand. In a coordinated effort, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) and the Royal Thai Police conducted a raid near the Mae Sot Friendship Bridge. They discovered 16 extensive cables unlawfully crossing the border, linked to towers that provided internet and telecom services to a wide area on the Myanmar side for these illegal operations. An investigation has been launched to find those responsible for establishing and maintaining this illegal network. The offenders could face up to five years in prison and fines reaching 10 million baht under the Telecommunications Business Act. -- 2024-12-03

Brief encounter: Phuket woman calls out underwear pervert - video By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A Thai woman in Phuket is pleading with a pervert to stop his degenerate behaviour after he repeatedly stole her underwear for masturbation purposes before later returning them. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345277-brief-encounter-phuket-woman-calls-out-underwear-pervert-video/

Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ By Petch Petpailin A Thai woman in Phuket is pleading with a pervert to stop his degenerate behaviour after he repeatedly stole her underwear for masturbation purposes before later returning them. The victim, whose name was not disclosed, shared her story with the Phuket Times, today, December 3, in the hope that the man would be shamed into stopping his actions. The page subsequently shared the story with the public, along with a video of the incident. “Woman cries for help! She’s running out of underwear. Her underwear were stolen for masturbation. Sometimes, the thief returned them to her clothes rack. The incident took place at a rented room in the Sam Kong neighbourhood of Phuket.” In the video, shared in the comment section, a Thai man wearing black shorts can be seen pulling underwear from a clothes rack and immediately putting it inside his shorts. He then walked away but later returned the used underwear to the rack. Some commenters remarked on the oddity of the thief daring to return the stolen underwear. Others mocked the pervert, joking that he was at least a “polite” thief for returning the stolen items. However, some netizens criticised the victim, blaming her for drying her underwear and bras outside her room. Others suggested unconventional deterrents, such as applying pepper or monkey tamarind, known for causing severe itching, to her underwear. The Phuket Times did not clarify how the matter was resolved. It remains unclear whether the woman took any legal action against the suspect. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-03

Nonthaburi shop owners seek driver after 50,000 baht accident By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Two shop owners are seeking the whereabouts of a driver who caused extensive damage to their businesses in a late-night car crash, promising to compensate before becoming unreachable after one day of contact. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345276-nonthaburi-shop-owners-seek-driver-after-50000-baht-accident/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Bright Choomanee Two shop owners are seeking the whereabouts of a driver who caused extensive damage to their businesses in a late-night car crash, promising to compensate before becoming unreachable after one day of contact. The incident occurred at approximately 3.40am on December 1, when a Toyota Wish sedan, driven by a 38 year old man identified as Charnwut (surname withheld), lost control and crashed into two adjacent shops on Bang Phai-Nong Phrao Ngai Road in Bang Rak Phatthana, Bang Bua Thong district. The collision caused severe damage to the shopfront walls and equipment at Tawee Heng Tools and Sombat Electricals, with total damages estimated at 50,000 baht (US$1,455). The owners, Nakorn and Phumipat (both 43 years old) have reported the incident to Bang Bua Thong Police Station. CCTV footage from the scene shows the sedan speeding before veering into the shops, toppling shelves and leaving tools scattered and damaged. Phumipat recounted that he was asleep when the crash occurred and woke to a loud noise. “I came outside to find my front door destroyed and tools critical to my work severely damaged. The driver appeared dazed but assured us he would take full responsibility before leaving the scene.” KhaoSod reported that the shop owners managed to contact Charnwut the day following the crash, during which he reiterated his commitment to covering the damages. However, he has since become unreachable, prompting the owners to appeal for media assistance, said Phumipat, who estimated the damage to his shop alone at over 20,000 baht (US$582). “My front door remains unusable, and I’m concerned about potential theft. Our livelihoods depend on these tools, and we urgently need him to honour his promise.” The owners hope that Charnwut will come forward to resolve the issue and are asking anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts to assist. They also urge the police to expedite their investigation and ensure accountability. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-03

House dissolution: Phumtham shoots down charter row rumours By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post A fiery political debate over Thailand’s charter referendum sparked speculation about a potential House dissolution but Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai isn’t buying it. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345275-house-dissolution-phumtham-shoots-down-charter-row-rumours/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A fiery political debate over Thailand’s charter referendum sparked speculation about a potential House dissolution but Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai isn’t buying it. Brushing off claims from Pheu Thai list-MP Cherdchai Tantisirin, Phumtham insisted that tensions between the ruling Pheu Thai Party and coalition partner Bhumjaithai Party wouldn’t boil over. “Dr Cherdchai is entitled to his opinion.” Phumtham stressed that coalition policies aren’t dictated by individual views. The controversy stems from disagreements over the voting threshold for passing a referendum on amending the constitution. The House favours a simple majority, while the Senate demands a double majority: over 50% voter turnout and majority approval from participants. A joint MP-Senate committee recently sided with the Senate’s stricter requirements, backed by Bhumjaithai. Cherdchai warned that failing to resolve the dispute could force a House dissolution,reported Bangkok Post. However, Phumtham dismissed the possibility, stating that only Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra holds the authority to dissolve the House, and she has shown no inclination to do so. “Disagreements will be worked out in Parliament.” Meanwhile, People’s Party (PP) leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut steered his opposition bloc clear of the coalition squabble. The PP supports two rounds of referendums to amend the constitution, citing a 2021 Constitutional Court ruling, while the government argues for three, said Natthaphong. “The party is always ready for elections if and when the House is dissolved.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-03

Government to Reassess Senior Digital Wallet Plan: January Benefits Still Expected File photo for reference only The cabinet has tasked the Finance Ministry with reevaluating the second phase of the digital wallet initiative. This scheme aims to provide a 10,000 baht cash benefit to roughly four million individuals over the age of 60 by January. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345269-government-to-reassess-senior-digital-wallet-plan-january-benefits-still-expected/

File photo for reference only The cabinet has tasked the Finance Ministry with reevaluating the second phase of the digital wallet initiative. This scheme aims to provide a 10,000 baht cash benefit to roughly four million individuals over the age of 60 by January. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat revealed that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra sought a more detailed legal review of the program. The updated findings will be resubmitted for the cabinet's consideration. Julapun reassured that, despite the review, the distribution of cash benefits is still planned for January. -- 2024-12-03