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Phuket's Sirinat Park Overwhelmed by Mounting Trash Crisis File photo for reference only Sirinat National Park on Phuket's northeast coast is grappling with a severe garbage crisis, raising alarms among local officials and residents. The park faces a daunting challenge with daily waste production reaching between 200 to 300 kilograms, which remains uncollected due to resource shortages, Park Chief Siriwat Suebsai reports. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352856-phukets-sirinat-park-overwhelmed-by-mounting-trash-crisis/

File photo for reference only Sirinat National Park on Phuket's northeast coast is grappling with a severe garbage crisis, raising alarms among local officials and residents. The park faces a daunting challenge with daily waste production reaching between 200 to 300 kilograms, which remains uncollected due to resource shortages, Park Chief Siriwat Suebsai reports. This environmental emergency came to light during a visit by the House of Representatives Committee on Land, Natural Resources, and Environment on February 24. The visit, led by Chairman Poonsak Chanchampi, aimed at addressing environmental concerns and exploring sustainable solutions for the region. The committee, which included Vice Chairpersons Abdul-Aye Samang and Songyos Ramsut, and spokesperson Thitikan Thitipruethikul, assessed critical issues such as waste management, land encroachment, and park boundaries at Sirinat. Beyond the park, waste woes extend to the Sakhu Subdistrict Administrative Organisation (OrBorTor), which produces 25 tonnes of waste daily but manages to collect only 18 tonnes, exacerbating the environmental strain. With Phuket's only incinerator temporarily shut for repairs, officials have been scrambling for waste disposal solutions. Chief Siriwat suggested setting up a disposal point within the park and called for more garbage bins. Concurrently, Thitipruethikul proposed drafting a robust waste collection strategy and seeking financial backing from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. The committee's visit also shed light on other local issues. Massage shop operators at Mai Khao Beach sought help against the demolition of their service booths. Mai Khao Deputy Mayor Wasawat Hongsa-suphasakul reassured them of available support measures, including appeal options. The committee also delved into land disputes across Phuket. These included conflicts at Thalang Phranang Sang School’s sports field, a hotel construction dispute in Soi Pasak 5, Cherng Talay, and land claims overlapping in Kamala. Additionally, the committee plans to visit the Kata landslide site, where 13 people died last August, to monitor recovery efforts. Updates on ongoing mitigation measures will be provided by officials from disaster prevention, forestry, and municipal offices, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-25

Crime Victim Advocate Faces Jail for Courtroom Violation File photo for reference only Atchariya Ruangrattanapong, a self-proclaimed crime victim advocate, has been sentenced to two months in jail. Today, the Criminal Court found him guilty of contempt. This stems from an incident last October, when he shared a court verdict summary with the media without permission. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352855-crime-victim-advocate-faces-jail-for-courtroom-violation/

File photo for reference only Atchariya Ruangrattanapong, a self-proclaimed crime victim advocate, has been sentenced to two months in jail. Today, the Criminal Court found him guilty of contempt. This stems from an incident last October, when he shared a court verdict summary with the media without permission. The court stated that while he had consent to release the summary, its striking similarity to the official verdict suggested he secretly recorded the proceedings. In Thailand, recording devices are strictly prohibited in courtrooms. The court emphasized that as an experienced lawyer, Atchariya should have known better than to act in this manner, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-25

Fuel Shortage Chaos: Long Queues at Thai-Myanmar Border File photo for reference only In Myanmar's Myawaddy border township, drivers face 5km-long queues to cross into Mae Sot, Thailand, just to refuel. This has become a common occurrence since February 5, when Thailand cut essential supplies to pressure Myanmar and the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) to dismantle Chinese-run scam call centers in Myawaddy, Tachileik, and Payathonzu. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352854-fuel-shortage-chaos-long-queues-at-thai-myanmar-border/

File photo for reference only In Myanmar's Myawaddy border township, drivers face 5km-long queues to cross into Mae Sot, Thailand, just to refuel. This has become a common occurrence since February 5, when Thailand cut essential supplies to pressure Myanmar and the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) to dismantle Chinese-run scam call centers in Myawaddy, Tachileik, and Payathonzu. These efforts have forced many scammers to flee or relocate to Cambodia. Over 6,000 individuals from various nationalities have been rescued by the DKBA and Karen Border Guard Force. However, they are now held by the Karen forces, pending Thai government approval to cross into Thailand. An insider at the border reports that small gas stations in Myawaddy have closed, leaving only larger stations open for just an hour daily. The official fuel price is 70 baht per liter for benzine and 71 baht for diesel, while on the black market, prices soar to 130 baht per liter, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-25

Thai Cops Bust Illegal Wi-Fi Stations Beaming into Laos Photo courtesy of The Nation In a major security operation, police in Nong Khai discovered illegal wireless Internet stations transmitting signals into Laos, raising significant security alerts. On February 25, officers from the Office of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) and Nong Khai police began their hunt for those responsible. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352853-thai-cops-bust-illegal-wi-fi-stations-beaming-into-laos/

Photo courtesy of The Nation In a major security operation, police in Nong Khai discovered illegal wireless Internet stations transmitting signals into Laos, raising significant security alerts. On February 25, officers from the Office of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) and Nong Khai police began their hunt for those responsible. Led by Trairat Wiriyasirikul, caretaker Secretary General of the NBTC, and the Technology Crime Suppression Subdivision 3, the investigation identified three suspect stations near the Lao border. The first station, found on a hotel rooftop in Mueang district just 1.24 kilometers from Laos, had two satellite dishes aligned towards the border. Though the broadband cables connecting the dishes appeared recently cut, a mobile phone cell site was also discovered there. The hotel management denied knowledge of the dishes’ owner. Trairat stated, "We suspect these dishes were used to beam signals into Laos." They are tracing the broadband account to find the responsible parties. A second station was uncovered 7 kilometers from the border displaying a similar setup. A third was just 900 meters away, further indicating cross-border Internet use. Owning unauthorized telecommunication equipment in Thailand is a serious crime. If apprehended, those behind these stations face severe charges. The discovery heightens worries about cross-border security and possible illegal operations. Investigators suspect these stations may have supported unauthorized business activities or crime. With the case under scrutiny, the NBTC and police are bolstering security measures along the border to curb future illegal broadcasts. Authorities urge anyone with knowledge of these unlawful setups to come forward, warning that more arrests may ensue as the crackdown on illegal telecom networks intensifies, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-25

Thai Investment Scam Exposed: CEO Charged in 800M Baht Fraud Photo courtesy of KhaoSod In a stunning development, a massive digital investment scam in Thailand has led to the arrest of a CEO linked to a fraud operation that swindled over 50 victims out of 800 million baht. The CEO, Kritsada, 23, allegedly helped establish a company used to launder the illicit funds, receiving only 500 baht for his involvement. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352852-thai-investment-scam-exposed-ceo-charged-in-800m-baht-fraud/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod In a stunning development, a massive digital investment scam in Thailand has led to the arrest of a CEO linked to a fraud operation that swindled over 50 victims out of 800 million baht. The CEO, Kritsada, 23, allegedly helped establish a company used to launder the illicit funds, receiving only 500 baht for his involvement. Police Colonel Thiraphas Yangyuen of the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) directed an investigation led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Chanarong Kanying and Pol. Lt. Col. Woraphon Lalitjirakul. Kritsada now faces serious charges, including participation in a transnational crime syndicate, membership in a secret society, fraud, falsifying computer data, money laundering, and aiding criminal financial activities. The scam involved a fabricated digital assets app that lured victims into investing, causing substantial financial losses. Investigators traced the scheme back to an organized crime gang, who funneled 500 million baht through the newly-registered company, sparking suspicion. During questioning, Kritsada confessed that a woman named Ploy paid him 500 baht to register the company, which he later handed over, unaware of its fraudulent purpose. Despite his claims, authorities suspect he deliberately ignored the fraudulent intentions behind the setup. “This highly organized crime involves numerous individuals. We are resolute in bringing every participant to justice,” stated the ECD. Public outrage has intensified with the exposure of this scam, underscoring the escalating threat of digital investment fraud in Thailand. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities urging victims to come forward while financial institutions heighten vigilance against similar frauds, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-25

Violent Night Out: Security Guard Assaults Tourists on Bangla Road Photo courtesy of Patong Police via The Phuket News In the early hours today, February 25, a night out on Bangla Road turned ugly when two tourists were violently attacked by a security guard. The incident has prompted Patong Police to launch a hunt for the assailant. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352848-violent-night-out-security-guard-assaults-tourists-on-bangla-road/

Photo courtesy of Patong Police via The Phuket News In the early hours today, February 25, a night out on Bangla Road turned ugly when two tourists were violently attacked by a security guard. The incident has prompted Patong Police to launch a hunt for the assailant. The victims, identified as 24-year-old Ukrainian Danylo Sidiakin and 24-year-old Polish national Oleh Hoba, sustained injuries after a dispute at the Nan & Non Tour restaurant, following a stop at the popular Miami Bar. The clash escalated into a physical brawl, leaving both men injured. Alarmed and bloodied, the tourists contacted the police at around 1.50 a.m. The authorities responded quickly, arriving at the bustling nightlife spot by 2.30 a.m., and helped the victims get medical treatment at Patong Hospital. While the cause of the altercation remains unclear, police are examining CCTV footage to track down the suspect and gather evidence. "We are reviewing footage and talking to witnesses to establish the facts," an officer stated, emphasizing their focus on capturing those responsible. This incident raises fresh concerns about safety on Bangla Road, a nightlife hub known both for its excitement and occasional violence. Questions about the adequacy of security measures and surveillance have surfaced, spurring local police to promise increased protective measures. Authorities are urging tourists to stay alert and report any suspicious activity to ensure their safety. The Patong Police have committed to ramping up efforts to prevent such incidents in the future, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-25

Swift Police Action Saves Vietnamese Men from Phuket Captors Photo by Mueang Phuket Police Station via Khao Phuket Over the past weekend, a swift police response thwarted a kidnapping attempt in Phuket involving two Vietnamese men. Authorities rushed to the scene after being tipped off by a friend of the victims, leading to the arrest of three Thai men and one unidentified foreigner. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352847-swift-police-action-saves-vietnamese-men-from-phuket-captors/

Photo by Mueang Phuket Police Station via Khao Phuket Over the past weekend, a swift police response thwarted a kidnapping attempt in Phuket involving two Vietnamese men. Authorities rushed to the scene after being tipped off by a friend of the victims, leading to the arrest of three Thai men and one unidentified foreigner. The incident took place on Kho Simbi Road on Saturday night, February 22. The victims, 40-year-old Van Tung Phan and 21-year-old Quang Minh Nguyen, had secretly shared their location, allowing police to intervene promptly. Upon arrival, officers discovered the victims held at gunpoint inside a black Volkswagen Caravelle van, which was parked near the Khao Rang Place hotel. Three firearms were seized from the suspects as evidence. The Vietnamese men recounted how they were threatened and coerced into the vehicle, with the captors demanding a ransom. The police have yet to reveal any underlying motivations or past disputes that may have instigated this crime. The assailants are currently facing legal proceedings, though specific charges remain under wraps. However, potential charges could fall under Thailand's Criminal Law Sections 309 and 310, covering threats with violence and unlawful detention, both punishable by up to three years in prison or a fine of up to 60,000 baht. As the investigation continues, the police's timely intervention certainly turned potential tragedy into relief for the victims, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-25

Phuket Takes a Stand: New Measures Against Illegal Workers Picture of illegal migrant workers courtesy of Thai Anti-Human Trafficking Action Phuket is taking a firm stand against illegal foreign workers, a growing concern that is impacting the island's renowned paradise image. On February 24, a significant meeting was held at the Phuket Provincial Hall, led by Vice Governor Ronnarong Thipsiri. Key figures attending were Worawan Waritphuttimeth, Chief of the Phuket Provincial Labour Office, and Phichit Singthongkam, Chief of the Phuket Provincial Employment Office, along with other senior officials. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352846-phuket-takes-a-stand-new-measures-against-illegal-workers/

Picture of illegal migrant workers courtesy of Thai Anti-Human Trafficking Action Phuket is taking a firm stand against illegal foreign workers, a growing concern that is impacting the island's renowned paradise image. On February 24, a significant meeting was held at the Phuket Provincial Hall, led by Vice Governor Ronnarong Thipsiri. Key figures attending were Worawan Waritphuttimeth, Chief of the Phuket Provincial Labour Office, and Phichit Singthongkam, Chief of the Phuket Provincial Employment Office, along with other senior officials. The meeting focused on reviewing foreign worker statistics and ensuring that the governor's strict instructions are followed. Recent troubling reports include allegations of Myanmar workers mistreating schoolchildren in Kamala, boisterous gatherings in Wichit's Naka area, and drug use among migrant workers. Adding to the problem, there is talk of Myanmar workers taking on contractor roles and hiring only fellow countrymen. To tackle these issues, the meeting led to a plan for more thorough workplace inspections, fair law enforcement, and informative campaigns on social media platforms popular among laborers. Collaboration between different agencies was deemed crucial to effectively implement a strategy to eliminate illegal practices. Official figures show that 97,569 foreign workers are legally employed on the island, mainly from Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. The Mueang district has the highest number at 59,240, followed by Kathu with 18,572 and Thalang with 19,757, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-25

Pai's Big Bust: 7 Tourists Nabbed for Public Cannabis Use Photo courtesy of KhaoSod In a decisive move to curb disruptive behavior, Pai Police have arrested seven foreign tourists for causing a public nuisance, including smoking cannabis in public. These arrests were made on February 24 as part of a campaign to maintain order in the popular tourist destination. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352845-pais-big-bust-7-tourists-nabbed-for-public-cannabis-use/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod In a decisive move to curb disruptive behavior, Pai Police have arrested seven foreign tourists for causing a public nuisance, including smoking cannabis in public. These arrests were made on February 24 as part of a campaign to maintain order in the popular tourist destination. The operation was spearheaded by Police Colonel Samret Samsitong, Superintendent of Pai Police Station, alongside Lt. Col. Nopphakhun Atthamathamkun and Lt. Col. Kriangkrai Saensali. In collaboration with Pai District Public Health, officers set up a special operations center on Pai's bustling walking street. Patrols advised tourists against illegal actions like public cannabis use and issued fines on-the-spot. The crackdown led to the arrest of tourists from several countries: one from the UK, two from the Netherlands, one from the US, two from Spain, and one from Israel, according to a police spokesperson. “We are committed to maintaining public order and ensuring that all tourists follow the law. Smoking cannabis in public places is prohibited, and offenders will be penalised,” said the spokesperson. The laid-back town of Pai is currently confronting challenges brought on by increased tourism and the impacts of cannabis decriminalization. Local residents and business owners have expressed concerns over disturbances linked to cannabis use. Responding to such issues, police have ramped up patrols in popular tourist areas, focusing on both educating visitors about local laws and enforcing penalties. Pai Police urged all tourists to respect Thai laws and local customs, with a stern warning that public nuisance offenses will not be tolerated. They confirmed that further operations are planned to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone. Reactions on social media have been mixed. While some commend the police for preserving public order, others call for clearer regulations on cannabis use, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-25

Social Media Influencer Saves Siblings from Abusive Stepfather Photo via Facebook/ กันจอมพลัง ช่วยสู้ Social media influencer Guntouch "Gun" Pongpaiboonwet has become a real-life hero after he rescued two young children from their abusive, drug-addicted stepfather in Nakhon Pathom. Gun stepped in when the children’s 21-year-old mother, overwhelmed by her volatile and dangerous situation, sought his help. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352844-social-media-influencer-saves-siblings-from-abusive-stepfather/

Photo via Facebook/ กันจอมพลัง ช่วยสู้ Social media influencer Guntouch "Gun" Pongpaiboonwet has become a real-life hero after he rescued two young children from their abusive, drug-addicted stepfather in Nakhon Pathom. Gun stepped in when the children’s 21-year-old mother, overwhelmed by her volatile and dangerous situation, sought his help. On February 24, Gun, alongside authorities from Pho Kaew Police Station and the Shelter for Children and Families, raided an apartment in Soi Kratumban. They discovered the children’s 31-year-old stepfather, John, using drugs while the terrified family cowered in a corner. The seven-year-old girl bore bruises on her face and a broken nasal bone, while her one-year-old brother had a broken jaw and various wounds. Their injuries resulted from daily abuse with a knife and electrical wire, with no medical attention given. Tragically, the children's mother had lost a previous pregnancy due to the abuse, yet had not sought medical care. John had also deliberately deprived the children of food for over two weeks. As a desperate survival tactic, the youngsters secretly begged neighbors for food and collected recyclable trash to earn money for snacks. Gun urged the battered mother to leave John and consider sterilization, but she resisted his advice. He emphasized the situation's urgency, warning that the children were in serious condition and might not have survived much longer without intervention. The authorities now protect the children, and legal actions against their stepfather are underway. Meanwhile, police will test the mother for drug use, with plans for rehabilitation if needed. Thanks to Gun’s brave efforts, the children are finally safe, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-25

E-Cig Black Market Busted in Bangkok: 25-Year-Old Arrested Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a bold move against illegal e-cigarette sales, Bangkok police arrested Niphaphon, a 25-year-old woman, in connection with the unauthorized sale of electronic cigarettes through a LINE group named PAT VAPE. The arrest occurred on February 24 at 5 p.m. in a commercial building on Phetkasem Soi 63, Bang Khae district. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352842-e-cig-black-market-busted-in-bangkok-25-year-old-arrested/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a bold move against illegal e-cigarette sales, Bangkok police arrested Niphaphon, a 25-year-old woman, in connection with the unauthorized sale of electronic cigarettes through a LINE group named PAT VAPE. The arrest occurred on February 24 at 5 p.m. in a commercial building on Phetkasem Soi 63, Bang Khae district. Niphaphon faces charges for violating the Consumer Protection Board's ban on producing and selling e-cigarettes and related products. Authorities seized a significant haul of items from the scene, including 70 vape pods, 26 disposable e-cigarettes, and 93 bottles of e-liquid, totaling 189 pieces. The investigation was sparked by police discoveries of e-cigarette sales via the LINE messaging app. Surveillance confirmed the illicit activity at the specified location, leading officers to intervene. Upon arrival, law enforcement identified themselves and searched the premises, finding Niphaphon actively selling the contraband. During questioning, she admitted to owning the seized items and intended to sell them to the public. Niphaphon was then informed of the charges and taken to Phasi Charoen Police Station, along with the confiscated goods, for further legal proceedings, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-25

Bangkok to Roll Out 1,520 Electric Buses by Year's End Photo courtesy of Stiftung KliK Bangkok is set to see a green transformation in public transport with the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) planning to lease 1,520 electric buses. By August, the first batch will hit the streets, replacing the aging fleet of over 30-year-old buses that lack air-conditioning. This initiative not only targets a major upgrade in public transport but also aims to cut 70% in fuel and maintenance costs. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352841-bangkok-to-roll-out-1520-electric-buses-by-years-end/

Photo courtesy of Stiftung KliK Bangkok is set to see a green transformation in public transport with the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) planning to lease 1,520 electric buses. By August, the first batch will hit the streets, replacing the aging fleet of over 30-year-old buses that lack air-conditioning. This initiative not only targets a major upgrade in public transport but also aims to cut 70% in fuel and maintenance costs. The project's budget is 15,355 million baht, stretching over seven years from 2025 to 2032. The BMTA will propose this initiative to its board on February 26, with hopes to clear Cabinet approval by early March. Following consultations with several authorities, including the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Finance, the plan is to finalize an electronic bidding process. With all approvals in place, the lease contract could be signed by April. The first 500 buses are expected on roads by August, helping reduce urban PM2.5 pollution levels. The remainder of the fleet will arrive by late 2032, significantly cutting down the BMTA's current debt of over 100 billion baht. BMTA chief Kittikarn Jomduang Charuworarakul stated that this move will drastically reduce maintenance costs. Plans for another phase include acquiring 1,520 more electric buses through public-private partnerships, further advancing Bangkok’s efforts toward eco-friendly transport. The Ministry of Transport is working to include this in the Project Pipeline, with financial backing from the PPP Promotion Fund, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-25

Businesswoman Discovers Missing Inventory at a Police Officer's Home Photo courtesy of KhaoSod In an alarming turn of events, a businesswoman, known as Noong, reported a staggering loss of over 1.6 million baht worth of construction equipment during a store relocation, only to find the missing items at a police officer's home. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352840-businesswoman-discovers-missing-inventory-at-a-police-officers-home/