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Man Killed by Falling Coconut Tree at Khon Kaen Temple File photo for reference only In a tragic event in Khon Kaen province, a man lost his life while cutting down a coconut tree at a temple. The accident, recorded by a monk, highlighted the risks involved in the task. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344945-man-killed-by-falling-coconut-tree-at-khon-kaen-temple/

File photo for reference only In a tragic event in Khon Kaen province, a man lost his life while cutting down a coconut tree at a temple. The accident, recorded by a monk, highlighted the risks involved in the task. On November 28, Deputy Inspector Phongphichit Thanapantphakdee from Mancha Khiri Police Station reported a fatal accident at Wat Moo 4 in the Mancha Khiri district. The 38-year-old man was found at the base of the tree with severe facial injuries and a broken leg. The man had volunteered to cut down the coconut tree for the temple, as its height posed a risk during strong winds. In return, he asked for the tree's remains for personal use. Accompanied by his mother and son, he began the task. While cutting the tree, he left a small portion uncut to ensure it fell slowly. Unfortunately, as he descended with a chainsaw and rope, the tree broke unexpectedly, hitting his head and killing him instantly. After the accident, his body was taken to the hospital for further investigation. The family plans to conduct religious rites after receiving the body. This tragic incident has deeply affected the local community. -- 2024-11-29

Phuket Authorities Crack Down on Unlicensed Jet Skis File photo for reference only In a significant move towards enhancing maritime safety, police in Phuket confiscated six unlicensed jet skis during an impactful raid at Cape Yamu, Pa Khlok, Thalang. The operation, executed on November 28, was spearheaded by the Phuket Marine Police and Marine Department officers, following directives from Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat and Phuket Marine Chief Natchapong Pranit. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344944-phuket-authorities-crack-down-on-unlicensed-jet-skis/

File photo for reference only In a significant move towards enhancing maritime safety, police in Phuket confiscated six unlicensed jet skis during an impactful raid at Cape Yamu, Pa Khlok, Thalang. The operation, executed on November 28, was spearheaded by the Phuket Marine Police and Marine Department officers, following directives from Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat and Phuket Marine Chief Natchapong Pranit. The raid at Yamu Pier was part of the provincial policy focused on ensuring maritime safety and regulatory compliance. An official report revealed that the jet skis were operating without proper licenses, breaking Section 9 of the Thai Navigation Act 1913, with updates from Section 60 (No. 14) 1992. The operators, whose names have not been released, received fines amounting to 10,000 baht per jet ski, serving as a firm warning. Additionally, a ban has been placed on unlicensed jet skis from offering services to tourists. “This operation highlights the necessity of following maritime laws to safeguard everyone,” stated a police official. The Phuket Marine Office calls on all jet ski operators to comply with licensing rules to avoid facing similar consequences. This crackdown is part of a larger campaign to support responsible tourism and maintain Phuket's standing as a premier, safe destination. With the busy high season in full swing, authorities are committed to stopping illegal activities that could harm the island’s attraction. -- 2024-11-29

Thai Police Seize 90 Smuggled Goats Near Myanmar Border File photo for reference only Border police in Thailand have intercepted 90 goats smuggled across the frontier from Myanmar. The animals were discovered after their handlers fled, leaving them stranded. Officials believe these goats were bound for investors before being transported to Malaysia. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344943-thai-police-seize-90-smuggled-goats-near-myanmar-border/

File photo for reference only Border police in Thailand have intercepted 90 goats smuggled across the frontier from Myanmar. The animals were discovered after their handlers fled, leaving them stranded. Officials believe these goats were bound for investors before being transported to Malaysia. Commander Natthaphon Ploythuam of the Border Patrol Police 146, acting on a tip-off regarding illegal livestock trafficking, tasked the Jon Ang Suek task force, led by Settachok Phacharatanaphisan, to monitor the Phu Mak Channel in Prachuap Khiri Khan province—a known smuggling route just 500 metres from Myanmar. During their patrol, officers followed the distinct bleating of goats to find a female animal injured and tied up, alongside a trail of footprints and dung. Further searches revealed ten more male goats and an additional 79 hidden within a coconut grove. Despite questioning locals, no one claimed the animals, reinforcing suspicions of smuggling operations. The malnourished and weary goats, likely smuggled from Myanmar, were set for fattening by middlemen before being exported to Malaysia. All goats have been seized for legal procedures. Due to its strategic but porous crossings, Prachuap Khiri Khan remains a prime location for illicit trade, prompting intensified border patrols to curb smuggling. Authorities vow to maintain strong surveillance to counter such illegal activities. -- 2024-11-29

Pathum Thani: Lost buffalo found after escape from slaughterhouse By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A missing buffalo has been found in Pathum Thani province after a two-day search, much to the relief of its owner. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344942-pathum-thani-lost-buffalo-found-after-escape-from-slaughterhouse/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A missing buffalo has been found in Pathum Thani province after a two-day search, much to the relief of its owner. Chao Long, a male buffalo, escaped from a slaughterhouse and lived with 65 year old Prachert at Soi Bong Kot 16, Village 4, Khlong 2, Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani for five months. His disappearance sparked a frantic search by the community, who had grown fond of the animal. Chao Long’s journey began when he ran away from a slaughterhouse at the end of a street, eventually finding refuge in a nearby field. Prachert, moved by the buffalo’s plight, decided to buy him for 8,000 baht, rescuing him from certain death. The buffalo was named Chao Long, which translates to “lost,” symbolising his initial flight from danger. Over the past five months, Chao Long has won the hearts of locals with his gentle demeanour, often allowing children to ride on his back. A few days ago, Chao Long disappeared, causing concern among those who had come to care for him. Prachert and the community embarked on a desperate search, scouring the area for any sign of the buffalo. Despite their efforts, Chao Long remained elusive. As a result, Prachert’s daughter took to social media, posting a plea for help along with a reward of 5,000 baht for anyone who could return him safely. Two days into the search, a breakthrough came when someone spotted the buffalo and informed Prachert of his location. Wasting no time, Prachert drove to the site and was reunited with Chao Long, rewarding the informant with 2,000 baht for their assistance. The community’s relief was palpable as their beloved buffalo was brought back home. Prachert, who rents equipment for film and television productions, including generators, lorries, and vans, revealed that since adopting Chao Long, his business has seen unexpected success. He secured a contract to supply equipment for a Hollywood film production, the remake of Alien: The First Chapter, which recently completed filming in Krabi. The contract has been extended for the next instalment, further boosting Prachert’s business prospects. “It’s hard to believe but Chao Long has truly brought good fortune.” Inspired by this stroke of luck, Prachert intends to test his fortunes further by using his house numbers, 26 and 32, in a lottery, hoping that Chao Long’s luck might extend beyond business success, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-29

Illegal labour scandal: Over 50 foreign workers nabbed in Pattaya By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Pattaya’s bustling markets and entertainment zones were rocked by a dramatic crackdown on illegal foreign workers as Chon Buri provincial police launched a large-scale operation yesterday, November 28. The raid, involving over 100 officers, targeted individuals working unlawfully in jobs reserved for Thai nationals. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344940-illegal-labour-scandal-over-50-foreign-workers-nabbed-in-pattaya/

Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Pattaya’s bustling markets and entertainment zones were rocked by a dramatic crackdown on illegal foreign workers as Chon Buri provincial police launched a large-scale operation yesterday, November 28. The raid, involving over 100 officers, targeted individuals working unlawfully in jobs reserved for Thai nationals. The sweep uncovered a significant number of violations at the Rattanakorn Thepprasit Market. Many foreign workers could only produce passports, lacking the crucial work permits required to be employed legally in Thailand. While some had valid documents, the majority were found flouting the law. A group of Laotian nationals were found openly selling lottery tickets. When apprehended, they appeared unfazed, boldly admitting they were hired by Thai nationals and paid 7,000 baht to sell the tickets. One suspect even bragged about having connections that would shield them from punishment, a claim that highlights potential deeper issues of corruption. Officers detained over 50 individuals, including street vendors selling flowers, food, and fruit. These workers, representing a range of nationalities, were taken to Pattaya Police Station for questioning. Legal proceedings are underway, with deportation set to follow, reported Pattaya Mail. A spokesperson for the operation emphasised the importance of enforcing labour laws to protect jobs for Thai citizens. “We are committed to maintaining fairness in the labour market and ensuring compliance with the law.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-29

Thailand to host 2025 SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games with 2 billion baht budget By Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath The Ministry of Tourism and Sports announced yesterday that Thailand will host the 2025 Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) and ASEAN Para Games with a budget of over 2 billion baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344939-thailand-to-host-2025-sea-games-and-asean-para-games-with-2-billion-baht-budget/

Photo via ThaiRath By Petch Petpailin The Ministry of Tourism and Sports announced yesterday that Thailand will host the 2025 Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) and ASEAN Para Games with a budget of over 2 billion baht. Thailand is set to host the 33rd SEA Games, which will take place in three main provinces: Bangkok, Chon Buri, and Songkhla, from December 9 to 20, 2025. The country will then host the ASEAN Para Games from January 20 to 26, 2026 in Nakhon Ratchasima, a province in the Isaan region, also known as Korat. The Minister of Tourism and Sports, Sorawong Thienthong, attended a meeting yesterday, November 28, to officially approve the logo and mascot for both events. The designs were selected through a previous competition and focused on promoting Thailand’s soft power. The winning logo for the SEA Games features a colourful fish swimming in a circle, inspired by the Siamese fighting fish, known in Thai as Pla Kat. The mascot is a mythical Thai creature, Waree Kunchorn, holding a torch. This creature has a body combining elements of an elephant and a fish. For the ASEAN Para Games, the logo symbolises disabled athletes and incorporates the Thai national flag. The mascot is a Korat cat, a silver-tipped, blue-grey breed, wearing a pha khao ma (a traditional Thai checkered scarf) and holding a torch. At the end of the meeting, Sorawong announced during a press conference that 50 sports would be included in the SEA Games. He also clarified the total budget allocated for the two sporting events, amounting to 2.055 billion baht, with funding sources as follows: 577 million baht from the 2025 fiscal year budget 115.5 million baht from SEA Games registration fees 13.86 million baht from ASEAN Para Games registration fees 1.343 billion baht from the Budget Act allocation 200 million baht from other income sources. Sorawong emphasised that environmental sustainability would be a key focus of the events, which will adhere to a low-carbon policy. A full report on the carbon footprint of the games will be released upon their conclusion. This will mark the seventh time Thailand has hosted the SEA Games, having previously done so in 1959, 1967, 1975, 1985, 1995, and 2007. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-29

Hunger Strike Drama: Thai Politician Lands in Hospital Amid Money Laundering Investigation File photo for reference only Embattled Thai politician Samart Janechaijittawanich was taken to the hospital following a four-day hunger strike while being held in custody. Samart, who is embroiled in a money laundering scandal tied to The iCon Group, was moved to the Department of Corrections Hospital late yesterday due to concerns about his health. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344938-hunger-strike-drama-thai-politician-lands-in-hospital-amid-money-laundering-investigation/

File photo for reference only Embattled Thai politician Samart Janechaijittawanich was taken to the hospital following a four-day hunger strike while being held in custody. Samart, who is embroiled in a money laundering scandal tied to The iCon Group, was moved to the Department of Corrections Hospital late yesterday due to concerns about his health. Earlier this week, Samart was arrested in Chiang Rai. He showed severe signs of exhaustion and weakness after refusing food, drinking only water to stay hydrated. Despite his declining condition, he reported no stomach pains. Kanokwan Jiewcheauphan, a spokesperson for the Department of Corrections, described Samart's fragile state, noting his extreme fatigue and stress. Investigation Unfolds The pressure mounts as the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) continues to explore allegations related to the iCon Group. On November 25, investigators searched Samart's home in Bangkok's Taling Chan district and his mother's house in Ratchathewi. During these searches, a crucial document was discovered. A source close to the probe revealed that the document might be forged to clear Samart of accusations that he received 100 million baht from the iCon's CEO, Warathaphon Waratyaworrakul, also known as Boss Paul. The document, dated November 12, was allegedly signed by Warathaphon while he was in prison. According to the Bangkok Post, the document supposedly states that Warathaphon lent money to Samart, which has been fully repaid. It outlines around 2.2 million baht being transferred to Samart's mother's account across 12 transactions, claiming the debt was settled in cash. “The document also contained Warathaphon’s acknowledgement that Samart had already repaid all the loans he received,” noted a source. However, the DSI remains skeptical of the document's authenticity and is rigorously investigating its validity as part of their quest to uncover the truth in this high-stakes financial scandal. With political tensions rising and public interest soaring, this dramatic episode adds another chapter to the complex saga of Samart Janechaijittawanich and The iCon Group. -- 2024-11-29

Finance Ministry Plans Capital Boost to Propel Thai Airways Recovery File photo for reference only The Ministry of Finance is planning to propose a financial boost for Thai Airways International at the upcoming Cabinet meeting next week. This initiative aims to support the airline's recovery efforts while ensuring the government maintains less than a 50% shareholding, keeping it from becoming a state enterprise. Tibordee Wattanakul, Director-General of the State Enterprise Policy Office, confirmed this strategy. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344937-finance-ministry-plans-capital-boost-to-propel-thai-airways-recovery/

File photo for reference only The Ministry of Finance is planning to propose a financial boost for Thai Airways International at the upcoming Cabinet meeting next week. This initiative aims to support the airline's recovery efforts while ensuring the government maintains less than a 50% shareholding, keeping it from becoming a state enterprise. Tibordee Wattanakul, Director-General of the State Enterprise Policy Office, confirmed this strategy. The plan includes allowing current shareholders to buy new shares and letting creditors, including the finance ministry, convert debt into equity. This capital restructuring is set to occur from December 6 to December 12. Currently, the Ministry of Finance holds a 47.9% stake in the airline, which is wrapping up a four-year debt restructuring. After converting debt to equity and injecting new capital, the ministry, Vayupak Fund, and Government Savings Bank will collectively own about 40% of Thai Airways. The ministry expects that if existing shareholders purchase all the new shares, Thai Airways could raise up to 44 billion baht. Participation from the Vayupak Fund will be decided by a state asset management company, and the Government Savings Bank’s involvement will depend on its board's decision. Mr. Tibordee emphasized that any capital injection would not push the airline into state enterprise status, projecting the shareholding to remain around 40%. To be classified as a state enterprise, government ownership must be at least 50%. The finance ministry plans to fund the injection from revenue from its securities management, not exceeding 20 to 30 billion baht, as noted by Mr. Tibordee. The ministry has informed Thai Airways of its willingness to convert debt into equity, amounting to 70-80 billion baht, originating from debt dating back to 2020. Converting debt to equity could benefit the ministry if the value of shares increases over time, while a full debt repayment could take around ten years. With the capital restructuring, Thai Airways is expected to improve its financial health, aiming to finish its rehabilitation by February 2025 and to be back on the Stock Exchange of Thailand by May. -- 2024-11-29

Pattaya police arrest violent gangster after knife attack By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya News A violent gang member’s jealous rage spiralled into a knife attack and a dramatic police standoff in Pattaya, leaving locals stunned. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344936-pattaya-police-arrest-violent-gangster-after-knife-attack/

Photo courtesy of Pattaya News By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A violent gang member’s jealous rage spiralled into a knife attack and a dramatic police standoff in Pattaya, leaving locals stunned. Pattaya police arrested 22 year old Phetchai, known as Arm, on Chalerm Phrakiat Third Road under a provincial court warrant on Wednesday, November 27. Phetchai was charged with night-time trespassing, armed assault, and carrying a weapon in public without permission. The shocking chain of events began on November 10 at a motel in Soi Koh Phai. Allegedly driven by jealousy, Phetchai attacked an 18 year old boy with a 15-centimetre knife, leaving the teenager shaken but alive. The Deputy Chief Investigator of Pattaya Police Station, Police Lieutenant Colonel Thananon Athipansi, revealed that officers tracked the suspect down and moved in to arrest him. But Phetchai wasn’t going quietly, said Pol. Lt. Col. Thananon. He attempted to flee but was surrounded.” Cornered, the gang member pulled out the same knife he had used in the motel attack and lunged at the officers. Thankfully, no one was hurt in the struggle, and Phetchai was overpowered and disarmed. The suspect’s arrest sheds light on his involvement with the Nam Tao gang, infamous for motorcycle theft and robberies across Pattaya. Police are now probing deeper to uncover connections to other crimes, reported Pattaya News. Arm remains in custody at Pattaya Police Station as legal proceedings unfold. Locals hope this arrest sends a clear message to others involved in gang activity. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-29

Scammer in Thailand caught calling dead woman’s phone By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A scammer impersonating a bank official made a call to a dead woman’s phone, only to be confronted by her son. The incident highlights the persistent issue of telephone fraud, where scammers impersonate government or bank officials to deceive people into revealing personal information or transferring money. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344935-scammer-in-thailand-caught-calling-dead-woman’s-phone/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A scammer impersonating a bank official made a call to a dead woman’s phone, only to be confronted by her son. The incident highlights the persistent issue of telephone fraud, where scammers impersonate government or bank officials to deceive people into revealing personal information or transferring money. In this particular case, the female scammer called the number of 80 year old Ruean, claiming that an unknown person had been authorised to conduct bank transactions on her behalf. Such scams typically target the elderly, who might be more susceptible to sharing sensitive information or unwittingly transferring money to the fraudsters’ accounts. Ruean’s son picked up the phone and engaged in conversation with the caller. Initially, he intended to record the conversation as a warning to others about such scams. However, overwhelmed with grief and preoccupied with work, he revealed to the scammer that Ruean died on November 4. The scammer apologised and expressed condolences before hastily ending the call. The scam call Ruean’s son received is unfortunately not an isolated incident. Telephone fraud remains a widespread problem, affecting individuals across various demographics. Fraudsters often pose as trusted authorities, creating a false sense of urgency to trick victims into complying with their demands. The emotional manipulation involved in these scams can lead to significant financial and emotional harm. In recent years, the rise of call centre scams has become a significant concern. These operations often involve well-organised groups that use technology to mask their identities and locations. Despite efforts to curb such activities, scammers persistently find new ways to reach potential victims. The call to Ruean’s number demonstrates the lengths to which scammers will go to exploit individuals. By impersonating bank officials, they aim to create panic and confusion, hoping their targets will act hastily without verifying the caller’s claims. Such tactics prey on the vulnerability of individuals, particularly the elderly, who may not have the resources or knowledge to identify fraudulent activities. Police urge the public to exercise caution and scepticism when dealing with unsolicited phone calls. It is essential to verify the identity of the caller independently, especially when asked to provide personal information or make financial transactions. Legitimate organisations will not request sensitive information over the phone without prior arrangements, reported KhaoSod. Full story: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-29

Consumer injured by glass in spaghetti at Thai pizza chain By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A shocking discovery of glass fragments in a dish of spaghetti at a popular pizza chain led to a consumer’s injury, sparking safety concerns. The incident, which occurred yesterday, November 28, has raised alarm among consumers and prompted discussions about food safety. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344934-consumer-injured-by-glass-in-spaghetti-at-thai-pizza-chain/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A shocking discovery of glass fragments in a dish of spaghetti at a popular pizza chain led to a consumer’s injury, sparking safety concerns. The incident, which occurred yesterday, November 28, has raised alarm among consumers and prompted discussions about food safety. A member of a consumer group shared their alarming experience online after unknowingly chewing on glass pieces in their meal. Initially mistaken for crispy bacon, the sharp fragments caused cuts to the mouth and hand upon removal. Unfortunately, some glass was swallowed, leading to fears of potential internal injuries. The victim recounted their ordeal, stating that they found the glass in spaghetti from a well-known pizza restaurant chain, commonly found in shopping malls. The size of the glass was described as being similar to a grain of rice. Despite the unpleasant incident, the individual expressed no intention to escalate the matter further, though they emphasised the need for improved hygiene and stricter measures against foreign objects in food to prevent future risks. “This is very dangerous if it causes internal injuries.” The restaurant has taken responsibility by waiving the cost of the meal and committing to covering any medical expenses if required. This response aims to reassure the affected customer and others who might be concerned about the safety of dining at this establishment, reported KhaoSod. Occurrences of foreign objects in food, though rare, can have severe implications for both consumers and businesses. They can cause physical harm and damage a brand’s reputation, leading to a loss of consumer trust. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and thorough quality control in food preparation and service. Food safety experts often advise consumers to be cautious and report any irregularities to ensure that corrective actions are taken promptly. Meanwhile, restaurants and food service providers are encouraged to implement rigorous checks to prevent such instances. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-29

Koh Samui’s ferry pier gets a much-needed makeover Photo courtesy of Supapong Chaolanvia Bangkok Post After a year of soaking rains and blistering sun, travellers at Koh Samui’s main ferry pier can finally say goodbye to their weather woes. The Nathon Pier is getting its roofs back and relief for passengers is just days away. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344869-koh-samui’s-ferry-pier-gets-a-much-needed-makeover/

Photo courtesy of Supapong Chaolanvia Bangkok Post By Puntid Tantivangphaisal After a year of soaking rains and blistering sun, travellers at Koh Samui’s main ferry pier can finally say goodbye to their weather woes. The Nathon Pier is getting its roofs back and relief for passengers is just days away. Narobb Tuaycharoen, a member of Nakhon Samui’s municipal council, confirmed today, November 28, that workers had started installing metal sheets on one of the two long roof structures. “The repairs should be completed within a week, or before the end of the year at the latest.” Nathon Pier, often dubbed the “capital” of Koh Samui, is the island’s vital hub, connecting it to Surat Thani and other destinations via ferries and speedboats. However, the gateway’s 200-metre-long walkways have been roofless since December 2022, leaving passengers at the mercy of the elements. This saga began when a contractor, hired by the Marine Department with a whopping budget of 212 million baht, removed the old roofs in 2021. While the project was supposed to be finished by December last year, work ground to a mysterious halt, leaving skeletal structures exposed for over a year. Fed up, the municipality intervened, securing approval from the Marine Department to complete the abandoned job. While the new roofs come as a welcome improvement, questions linger about the contractor’s failure to deliver. For now, though, island visitors and locals can look forward to a more comfortable experience at Koh Samui’s bustling maritime gateway, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-28

Sorn to be wild: Bangkok eatery spices up Michelin map with 3-star triumph By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Move over, culinary giants, Thailand claimed its spot on the Michelin map! In a historic first, Bangkok’s Sorn has become the only Thai restaurant to snag the coveted three stars in the 2025 Michelin Guide Thailand, unveiled yesterday, November 27. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344868-sorn-to-be-wild-bangkok-eatery-spices-up-michelin-map-with-3-star-triumph/