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In a scene more fitting for a comedy movie, a man in Hat Yai, Songkhla province, found himself falling through a roof while attempting to evade the police as they closed in on his criminal operation. The man, identified as 27-year-old Apirak, is believed to be the mastermind behind a series of local water meter thefts. The saga began yesterday, November 21, in the bustling area of Hat Yai, where residents had lodged numerous complaints about missing water meters. The police, guided by Deputy Superintendent of Hat Yai Police Station, Anuwat Rittichai, and Detective Inspector Theerawut Saenitnorn, began an investigation, ultimately leading them to Apirak's hideout. The drama unfolded as the police arrived at a house on Soi 7, Rattana Uthit, in Hat Yai Municipality. To evade capture, Apirak opted for a hasty retreat over the rooftops. His plan, however, was quickly foiled when the roof tiles crumbled under him, sending him crashing down and causing minor injuries. Despite this setback, Apirak fled to a nearby forest where the persistent officers soon caught up with him. Upon capture, Apirak confessed to stealing water meters from four different locations. He admitted that he had sold the stolen goods to finance his lifestyle, which included indulgence in drugs and various leisure activities. "I only stole four meters. I sold them for money to enjoy myself and buy drugs,” he stated. Further surprises awaited the officers as they searched Apirak's hideout. Two women, one of whom was identified as Apirak's girlfriend, were discovered inside the house, consuming drugs. The duo was promptly arrested alongside Apirak. The police have charged all three with nighttime theft and drug consumption, and the legal proceedings are already underway. Meanwhile, the police have reassured the Hat Yai community of their unwavering commitment to public safety, urging residents to report any suspicious activities promptly. Photo: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-22

Man Accuses 11 Lamphun Police Officers of Illegal Raid and Extortion File photo for reference only In a disturbing revelation, a 47-year-old Thai man hailing from Lamphun, named Wongsaphat, has raised serious accusations against 11 police officers in his local region. Following an alleged illegal raid at his home, Wongsaphat has moved to Bangkok seeking help from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB). He contends that these police officers not only conducted an unauthorised search of his premises but also attempted to extort 3,000 baht per month from him, leveraging his employment of migrant construction workers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344286-man-accuses-11-lamphun-police-officers-of-illegal-raid-and-extortion/

In a disturbing revelation, a 47-year-old Thai man hailing from Lamphun, named Wongsaphat, has raised serious accusations against 11 police officers in his local region. Following an alleged illegal raid at his home, Wongsaphat has moved to Bangkok seeking help from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB). He contends that these police officers not only conducted an unauthorised search of his premises but also attempted to extort 3,000 baht per month from him, leveraging his employment of migrant construction workers. On November 6, around 4pm, Wongsaphat reported that his home was raided by 11 individuals who identified themselves as police officers. They failed to adhere to procedural norms, neither displaying any badges that prove their identity nor presenting a formal search warrant. Despite the absence of legality and presence of intimidation, Wongsaphat allowed the police to search his house, to prove his innocence. The raid yielded nothing criminal. However, the focus supposedly shifted to his property - under renovation by three migrant construction workers. The officers pinned the contractor, appointed by Wongsaphat, for illegal employment of these workers and linked Wongsaphat to potential legal repercussions due to this claim. An illicit demand followed - the officers proposed that Wongsaphat could evade any legal trouble by paying them a sum of 1,000 baht per migrant worker each month, amounting to a total of 3,000 baht. Wongsaphat bravely defied this extortion attempt, assuring that his employees carried valid working permits, a fact verified by the contractor in question. Although he initially intended to take up this matter with the Provincial Police Region 5, an informal approach by the senior authorities led him to reconsider his trust in local law enforcement. Further fear was stoked when Wongsaphat noticed one of these raiding officers clandestinely photographing his car and registration details. Having considered the safety of his family and himself, the tormented man escalated his complaint to the Central Investigation Bureau in Bangkok. As details continue to unfold, this case exposes stark allegations against the integrity of the 11 police officers. The incident puts a spotlight on possible police corruption in Lamphun, and the effectiveness of the Central Investigation Bureau's intervention is eagerly awaited by Wongsaphat and the broader public. Investigations are ongoing, with more elusive details expected to come to light soon. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-22

Thai worker abandoned in Israel after hospital discharge - video Photo courtesy of @jacaky2538 via KhaoSod A Thai worker in Israel who, after being discharged from the hospital, found himself abandoned by his employer at a workers’ camp. The man, unable to recall any personal details, has since disappeared from his accommodation, leaving both his family and fellow workers anxious for his wellbeing. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344284-thai-worker-abandoned-in-israel-after-hospital-discharge-video/

A Thai worker in Israel who, after being discharged from the hospital, found himself abandoned by his employer at a workers’ camp. The man, unable to recall any personal details, has since disappeared from his accommodation, leaving both his family and fellow workers anxious for his wellbeing. A TikTok user, identified as @jacaky2538, who is also a Thai worker in Israel, shared a video on the platform in an attempt to locate the family of this man. The video highlights the plight of the worker who had travelled to Israel in search of better financial opportunities. “#ThaiWorkersInIsrael Please help me find his family. He remembers living in Kasang district, Buriram province. Nobody wants this to happen. It’s heartbreaking. If anyone knows him, please contact me.” The video shows the man sitting among fellow workers, visibly restless and unable to communicate effectively. It is understood that he had recently been discharged from a hospital but, due to memory issues, cannot contact his family. The post garnered significant attention and concern from viewers, who are collectively trying to help locate the man’s relatives. One TikTok user, claiming to be from the same village, commented. “Toei, what happened? We’re from the same hometown in Kasang, Buriram. I was wondering where you’ve gone.” Further comments from the original poster explain that after the man’s hospital release, his employer refused to take responsibility and instead had him dropped off at the workers’ camp by a taxi. Attempts by his friends to seek assistance from the Thai embassy in Israel were met with little support. They were simply advised to arrange for his return ticket home on their own. The man’s mother, having seen the video, expressed her distress and inability to reach her son, commenting on the post with deep concern. The situation has taken a worrying turn as recent comments reveal that the man has now vanished from his room, with his current whereabouts unknown. This development has heightened the urgency for those involved to find him and ensure his safety, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of @jacaky2538 via KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-22

Trang monk defrocked after alcohol-fueled disturbance Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A monk, involved in a public disturbance while allegedly drunk, insisted on his innocence, claiming he only consumed alcohol and did not use any illegal substances. The incident unfolded near a child development centre in Trang province, raising concerns among the local community. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344283-trang-monk-defrocked-after-alcohol-fueled-disturbance/

A monk, involved in a public disturbance while allegedly drunk, insisted on his innocence, claiming he only consumed alcohol and did not use any illegal substances. The incident unfolded near a child development centre in Trang province, raising concerns among the local community. Law enforcement received a report about a monk and a layperson causing a commotion. Upon arrival, officers found both individuals heavily intoxicated, with the monk claiming to possess a firearm, which alarmed the locals. The police detained them for questioning at the Mueang Trang Police Station. The monk, identified as 52 year old Noppadon, failed to provide evidence of his monkhood, only possessing a national ID card. He claimed to have been ordained for one year. His companion, 48 year old Saichon, lacked identification but had a police report from Ratphum Police Station. The document stated that two Thai men had brought him from Hua Lamphong, Bangkok, to work in a palm plantation in Songkhla, only to abandon him. Consequently, his belongings and 1,000 baht went missing with the men’s vehicle. Both men underwent drug tests, which returned negative results. However, their incoherent accounts and refusal to accept responsibility added to the confusion. Noppadon vociferously declared that even a senior monk could not force him to disrobe, citing his connections with influential religious figures and denying any wrongdoing. Saichon remarked that his friend, the monk, consumed alcohol daily and had spent 1,200 baht on alcohol and snacks that day. Noppadon was clearly upset about being defrocked. “I only drink alcohol, never touch drugs. What’s wrong with having a drink? Why should I be defrocked for it?” He also criticised his friend for not supporting him. “I collect alms to feed us both, providing you with food and drinks. Why won’t you stand by me?” Ultimately, the police escorted Noppadon to meet Phra Maha Suwan Wichatharo, the abbot of Nikrotharam Temple and the chief monk of Mueang Trang district. Despite Noppadon’s continuous resistance, the police managed to complete the disrobing ceremony, effectively removing his monkhood, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-22

Bangkok students assaulted, stripped, blackmailed by classmates Photo via Matichon Two female students from a vocational college in Bangkok are seeking justice after being physically assaulted by three classmates and forced to undress in front of a camera. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344282-bangkok-students-assaulted-stripped-blackmailed-by-classmates/

Two female students from a vocational college in Bangkok are seeking justice after being physically assaulted by three classmates and forced to undress in front of a camera. The victims, identified as 18 year old A and 16 year old B, contacted social media influencer Guntouch “Gun” Pongpaiboonwet for assistance, fearing they would not receive justice after filing a complaint at Bang Mod Police Station. The victims explained that three female classmates invited them to a birthday party on October 7 but asked them to stop at a house in Soi Rama II Section 1 beforehand. Upon arriving, they found 10 other classmates at the location. The three classmates suddenly began assaulting them, repeatedly kicking them in the face and other parts of their bodies while others recorded the attack. They were then forced to remove their shirts and trousers, leaving them in their underwear. One of the attackers reportedly said, “You have two choices: take off your bras or your panties. Pick one.” The victims said they chose to remove their bras, after which the classmates, particularly the male students, took pictures and videos of them. Police delay The attackers later poured water over them and threatened to release the explicit images and videos online if they reported the incident. Following the assault, the two victims stayed together at B’s house. They did not dare to reveal the incident, but B’s mother noticed signs of the attack on their bodies. The victims then filed a complaint against the attackers on October 9. A believes the motive for the attack was jealousy. One of the attackers suspected that A was romantically involved with her ex-boyfriend, though A denied this, stating they only spoke as friends and had no romantic feelings for him. B was her friend, so she was assaulted too. Despite filing the complaint, the victims continued to face threats from the group. The attackers reportedly shared a picture of a gun to intimidate them and circulated explicit images online. The attackers allegedly claimed they were not afraid of imprisonment. Embarrassed by the incident, the victims decided to resign from the college and sought help from the social media influencer in the hope of expediting the police investigation. Officers at Bang Mod Police Station stated that the case involved minors as both victims and suspects, requiring specialists’ intervention, which delayed proceedings. However, they assured that all suspects involved were identified and would soon be summoned to face legal action. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-22

Second Australian teen falls victim to Laos poisoning tragedy Picture courtesy of The Daily Mirror The unbearable heartache continues for the family of an Australian teen after she tragically died today following a horrific methanol poisoning incident in Laos. Her passing takes the death toll to six. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344252-british-lawyer-latest-to-fall-in-laos-alcohol-poisoning-tragedy/page/3/#findComment-19400244

Second Australian teen falls victim to Laos poisoning tragedy The unbearable heartache continues for the family of an Australian teen after she tragically died today following a horrific methanol poisoning incident in Laos. Her passing takes the death toll to six. Teenage Holly Bowles passed away in a Thai hospital today, November 22, just a day after her best friend, Bianca Jones, also 19 years old, succumbed to the same fate. Bowles’ devastated family shared the heartbreaking news this afternoon. “It is with broken hearts and we are so sad to say that our beautiful girl Holly is now at peace.” The Bowles family found solace in the joy and happiness she brought to everyone around her, celebrating the adventurous spirit that led her to explore Southeast Asia, make new friends, and create cherished memories. Her proud parents recalled how she was always an amazing big sister to James and expressed their gratitude. “We would like to thank everyone from back home, in Canada and around the world for the love and support that Holly and our family have received.” Holly and Bianca, both from Melbourne, were living the dream on a long-anticipated gap year adventure. Unfortunately, their once-thrilling journey turned into a nightmare when they, along with other unsuspecting tourists, fell critically ill after consuming tainted drinks in the picturesque yet perilous town of Vang Vieng. Both girls began feeling unwell on Wednesday, November 13 and were urgently whisked away to separate hospitals in Bangkok. Tragically, Bianca’s life support was switched off yesterday, as her family made the agonising decision after medical options were exhausted. “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the news that our beloved daughter and sister, Bianca Jones, has passed away.” They took comfort in knowing her vibrant spirit left an indelible mark on many lives. Thai government officials confirmed Bianca suffered from “brain swelling due to high levels of methanol found in her system.” Her family is making arrangements to bring her home, although the ongoing police investigation may cause delays. The death toll from this tragic event has now climbed to six. Thai officials confirmed earlier today that 28 year old British lawyer Simone White had also died. This follows the deaths of two Danish women and an American man, previously acknowledged by officials in their respective countries. Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong warned about the dangers of drink spiking and methanol poisoning, which remain “far too common in many parts of the world.” She urged parents and young people to have conversations about these risks and stay informed, hoping to prevent such senseless tragedies from occurring again, reported The Western Australian. As the world watches in grief, the young lives lost serve as a stark reminder of the hidden dangers lurking beneath the surface of international travel. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of The Daily Mirror Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-22

Golden Girl Ava: Thailand's Latest Social Media Sensation Graces Chiang Mai Night Safari Photo: Thai PBS World The Chiang Mai Night Safari has introduced the world to its latest attraction: Ava, a strikingly beautiful golden Bengal tiger. Photos of Ava posing gracefully were shared on the safari's official Facebook page, quickly capturing the hearts of netizens around Thailand and across the globe, turning this three-year-old feline into the latest sensation in unusual wildlife attractions. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344218-golden-girl-ava-thailands-latest-social-media-sensation-graces-chiang-mai-night-safari/

Disturbing Sexual Assault Allegations Shake Royal Police Cadet Academy File photo for reference only A horrifyingly brave revelation from a student at the Royal Police Cadet Academy (RPCA) in Nakhon Pathom province has sent shockwaves through the community. The young man has made severe allegations of sexual assault against a male instructor and his alleged police officer companion at the academy, sparking an ongoing investigation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344217-disturbing-sexual-assault-allegations-shake-royal-police-cadet-academy/

The Chiang Mai Night Safari has introduced the world to its latest attraction: Ava, a strikingly beautiful golden Bengal tiger. Photos of Ava posing gracefully were shared on the safari's official Facebook page, quickly capturing the hearts of netizens around Thailand and across the globe, turning this three-year-old feline into the latest sensation in unusual wildlife attractions. The post, introducing the alluring Ava as the sister of Luna, another popular tiger at the safari, became an instant hit. Garnering as many as 31,000 'likes', 2,700 comments, and 25,000 shares as of Thursday, Ava's social media debut paints a vivid picture of her rising popularity. Netizens from all around couldn't resist her charm, showering her with compliments for her majestic presence and captivating eyes. Some even commented that Ava's captivating charm made her seem too adorable to be a wild predator. Chiang Mai Night Safari further fuelled interest by explaining that Ava's unique coat - a golden take on the Bengal tiger's typical orange-black palette - is due to a rare recessive gene. This mutation is rare, occurring only in 50 to 100 tigers worldwide, thereby adding further intrigue to Ava's distinctive appeal. Ava is not the first member of her family to create buzz online. Luna, her sister, had previously seen her own images spread across social media like wildfire. The Chiang Mai Night Safari offers a spectacular opportunity for wild-life enthusiasts eager to see Ava and Luna up close. The 'Tiger World' zone, home to these viral predators, is open daily from 11 am to 2 pm. As the lights go down in Chiang Mai, these Golden Girls ensure the stars continue to shine. Photo: Thai PBS World -- 2024-11-21

A horrifyingly brave revelation from a student at the Royal Police Cadet Academy (RPCA) in Nakhon Pathom province has sent shockwaves through the community. The young man has made severe allegations of sexual assault against a male instructor and his alleged police officer companion at the academy, sparking an ongoing investigation. In the heart of Thailand, the esteemed academy is now embroiled in a hideous scandal. The student detailed an assault occurring between the hours of 10:30am on November 16 and 1am the following day. Post completing his night guard duty, two men arrived at the academy, the instructor allegedly used his seniority to coerce the student into a meeting on the rugby field. There, according to the student's report, the instructor and his friend forced him to drink heavily. They then subjected him to a humiliating and degrading ordeal, forcing him to undress and participate in sexually explicit acts. The student's suspicions that he may have been recorded were fuelled by the flash of light he saw with his eyes closed. Visibly drunk, the student was eventually led to his accommodation. However, the presence of security guards led the duo to abandon him some distance away. The frightened cadet managed to stumble his way back, remaining silent about his terrifying ordeal for fear of retribution. News of the alleged assault quickly went viral. Deputy Commander Sakrapee Priaopanich of the RPCA confirmed that an additional student had come forward, claiming to have been assaulted by the same individuals. However, the academy has yet to verify whether the suspects are indeed academy staff and a police officer. Commander Sakrapee further stated that the victims, as adults, are at liberty to pursue legal action. Meanwhile, the Commander of the Royal Thai Police, Kittirat Phanphet, has directed the academy to undertake a comprehensive investigation. Kittirat assured a zero tolerance policy for such deplorable behaviour, with severe penalties for any found guilty. As the facts continue to emerge, this deeply disturbing incident has not only cast shadows over the academy's reputation, but planted gnawing seeds of fear for the young cadets in the heart of Thailand. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-21

Intoxicated noodle vendor drowns in Samut Prakan shellfish pond Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A noodle vendor tragically lost her life, discovered headfirst in a shellfish pond in Samut Prakan province, a fate believed to be the result of intoxication. Her sister revealed her fondness for alcohol, suspecting she lost her footing and slipped into the pond while heading home. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344215-intoxicated-noodle-vendor-drowns-in-samut-prakan-shellfish-pond/

A noodle vendor tragically lost her life, discovered headfirst in a shellfish pond in Samut Prakan province, a fate believed to be the result of intoxication. Her sister revealed her fondness for alcohol, suspecting she lost her footing and slipped into the pond while heading home. The incident was reported today, November 21, with officers from the Ban Khlong Suan Police Station in Phra Samut Chedi district, Samut Prakan, responding to a grim discovery. The lifeless body of 52 year old Malee was found among the grass at the edge of a shellfish pond near the second lane of the district office-Wat Sakhla road, Village 3, Na Kluea subdistrict, Phra Samut Chedi district, Samut Prakan. Officers, accompanied by medical staff from Phra Samut Chedi Hospital and the Poh Teck Tung Foundation, arrived promptly for a thorough investigation. The scene was a footpath by a pond, sprawling over more than 10 rai (approximately 16,000 square metres). The victim, a local of Na Kluea, was discovered lying supine in the water, her head submerged in the pond with her feet resting on the earthen bank. She was clad in a black round-neck T-shirt and black capri trousers, with no shoes. A noticeable abrasion on her right elbow suggested a possible scrape, with skin missing from the area. Foundation staff carefully retrieved her body from the water for further examination on the bank. The investigation included an interview with 60 year old Jaruek, the victim’s sister. According to Jaruek, Malee was a noodle vendor working near the Phra Samut Chedi District Office and had a strong penchant for drinking alcohol. On the evening before the discovery, Malee had cycled about 1 kilometre from her home to a local grocery store to buy alcohol, a routine repeated daily. Jaruek stated that having completed her errands and gone to bed, she woke to the devastating news that her sister had drowned near their home. The usual route home required walking along the embankment of the cockle pond for about 50 metres before reaching the house. Jaruek speculated that Malee, heavily intoxicated the previous night, might have lost her footing due to wet grass and dew-laden paths, leading to her tragic fall into the water. Intoxicated and unable to call for help, Malee succumbed to drowning unnoticed. The family expressed no suspicion regarding the circumstances of Malee’s death, being aware of her habitual drinking. Police documented the scene and recorded the incident in the daily log before entrusting the body to the foundation staff for transport to the forensic institute for an autopsy. Relatives were informed to arrange for the body to be collected for funeral rites following local customs, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-21

Russian driver crashes into Thai couple’s motorcycle, denies responsibility Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A Thai couple is seeking justice after a Russian man allegedly crashed his SUV into their motorcycle on a Phuket road and failed to take responsibility for their injuries. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344214-russian-driver-crashes-into-thai-couple’s-motorcycle-denies-responsibility/

A Thai couple is seeking justice after a Russian man allegedly crashed his SUV into their motorcycle on a Phuket road and failed to take responsibility for their injuries. The victims contacted the Phuket Times, urging it to publicise their story in their pursuit of justice. On Tuesday, November 19, the page shared photos of the accident along with details of the incident. In the caption, the page stated… “Call out! A Russian man sped out of an alley and crashed into the victims’ motorcycle. The foreigner refused to pay compensation and dared the victims to take the matter to court if they wanted the money.” The accident reportedly occurred at the entrance of Soi Bang Ma Lao in the Thalang district of Phuket at around 1pm on November 17. The couple was said to be en route to the woman’s workplace at the time of the collision. The Russian driver allegedly exited Soi Bang Ma Lao at high speed and collided with the motorcycle, which was travelling along the main road. Photos shared by Phuket Times show the Russian man approaching the victims after the crash. The woman is depicted with visible wounds and bruises on her arm, though the injuries sustained by her boyfriend were not disclosed. The couple explained that they were rushed to hospital and a local police officer arranged a meeting with the foreign driver the following day. However, they could not reach an agreement on compensation during the meeting, prompting the couple to plan legal action. Without legal knowledge and fearing they might not receive justice, the couple turned to social media to seek advice and expose what they described as the dangerous driving behaviour of the Russian man. They emphasised that they are now unable to work due to their injuries, leaving them without income. The story sparked criticism of the local police, as many netizens argued that the photos clearly showed the Russian driver’s fault and claimed that compensation should have been arranged without requiring court intervention. Others shared similar experiences of road accidents involving Russian nationals, alleging that police often favour foreign drivers. The couple has not disclosed which police station handled their case, and no updates on the matter have been provided so far. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-21

Bombs in rubbish bags spark Narathiwat emergency school closure File photo for reference only Bombs planted inside rubbish bags sent shockwaves through a community in Narathiwat as police rushed to investigate the incident. Four explosive devices were strategically placed on Road 4136, prompting an emergency school closure and a large-scale investigation with no reported injuries. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344213-bombs-in-rubbish-bags-spark-narathiwat-emergency-school-closure/

Bombs planted inside rubbish bags sent shockwaves through a community in Narathiwat as police rushed to investigate the incident. Four explosive devices were strategically placed on Road 4136, prompting an emergency school closure and a large-scale investigation with no reported injuries. Officials, including Direk Chomyong, deputy chief of Narathiwat Provincial Police, and Weerayut Tasiphan, chief of Koh Kian Police Station, together with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit, quickly responded to the scene. The explosives, hidden in rubbish bags, were positioned approximately 500 metres apart from one another in the Hutaetuao village area, Kokkian subdistrict. The devices detonated in quick succession at around 4.30am, today, November 21, just minutes apart, an investigator said. “The explosions caused the ground and grass on the road median to lift slightly, leaving a crater about 3 inches deep and 5 inches wide.” Evidence collected from the scene indicated that the bombs were homemade, using digital wristwatches as timers. The area was littered with remnants of the explosive devices, but no shrapnel was found that could have caused harm to individuals or property damage. The first explosion took place opposite Ban Hutaetuao School, leading to its closure for the day to facilitate a thorough investigation. The second explosion occurred 500 metres away, opposite a fresh chicken shop, with the third blast happening opposite a curry shop. The fourth explosion was near Hutaetuao Mosque and Phatthanasatwitthaya Islamic School, each site bearing the same characteristics and type of explosive device. Police collected evidence and conducted interviews, learning that, at around 11pm the previous night, locals reported suspicious items resembling bombs placed on the road median in Hutaetuao. Witnesses described seeing four men on two motorcycles riding against traffic from a construction workers’ camp. The men stopped at each target location, placing the bombs before fleeing the scene, a police spokesperson said. “The suspects rode against traffic and turned right to escape after placing all four bombs.” In response, local police coordinated with Koh Kian Police Station officers to secure the area and close the road for public safety, reported KhaoSod. Initial findings suggested the devices were improvised explosive devices (IEDs), leading to a decision to cordon off the area and notify relevant police for further investigation. Unfortunately, the bombs detonated before the team could safely defuse them. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-21

Bangkok Airways Partners with French Amelia Amid Tourist Surge File photo for reference only As Thailand witnesses a record surge in tourist arrivals, national airline Bangkok Airways has turned to its French counterpart Amelia for support in an effort to address a growing aircraft shortage. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344212-bangkok-airways-partners-with-french-amelia-amid-tourist-surge/

As Thailand witnesses a record surge in tourist arrivals, national airline Bangkok Airways has turned to its French counterpart Amelia for support in an effort to address a growing aircraft shortage. According to a recent announcement, Bangkok Airways has secured a wet-lease deal with France's Amelia. The agreement ensures the provision of two Airbus narrowbody aircraft to bolster the Thai airline's operations during the peak tourist season. From December 1, Amelia's Airbus A319-100 will be assigned for daily flights from Bangkok to Luang Prabang, as well as twice-daily flights to Siem Reap’s New Angkor International Airport in Cambodia. The larger aircraft, Amelia’s Airbus A320-200, has been allocated to the bustling Bangkok-Phnom Penh route, with three daily flights. Continuing a semblance of familiarity in this whirlwind partnership, Amelia will provide the flight crew while Bangkok Airways' cabin crew will helm in-flight services, promising a smooth and consistent passenger experience. Both aircraft will remain operational for Bangkok Airways until March 29, 2025. Thailand's tourism boom has put Bangkok Airways under considerable strain, with the airline finding it difficult to restore its pre-pandemic capacity. Peter Wiesner, the airline’s network management advisor, said, “A lack of aircraft was hindering our ability to return to normal operations.” In a drive towards cementing its future, Bangkok Airways is considering new models such as the Airbus A220 and Embraer E2. The company anticipates formalising a request for proposals by the end of the year, with the potential delivery of new aircraft beginning in 2028. The decision on these new orders is imminent, confirmed CEO Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, though further details remain under wraps. The French-Thai aviation collaboration seems aptly timed to handle the colossal task of responding to rising passenger demand, as Thailand's tourism industry charts new highs. This story is undeniably a significant marker on the road to recovery for one of Southeast Asia's most vibrant tourist destinations. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-21

Pattaya's Traffic Mayhem Threatens Tourism: City Battles for Solution File photo for reference only A raucous city council meeting in Pattaya yesterday saw members voicing their concern over the worsening traffic situation in the known Thai beach resort. According to Surin Yimyai, a city council member, disorderly public transport practices are causing disastrous congestion and dampening the city's image as a leading tourist hub. The main culprits appear to be public buses, stopping at any location of choice, disregarding rules and gumming up key routes. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344210-pattayas-traffic-mayhem-threatens-tourism-city-battles-for-solution/

A raucous city council meeting in Pattaya yesterday saw members voicing their concern over the worsening traffic situation in the known Thai beach resort. According to Surin Yimyai, a city council member, disorderly public transport practices are causing disastrous congestion and dampening the city's image as a leading tourist hub. The main culprits appear to be public buses, stopping at any location of choice, disregarding rules and gumming up key routes. This convoluted system has led to severe gridlock on primary arteries including South Pattaya Beach Road, Pattaya Second Road, Third Road, and Na Kluea. The city's infrastructure, overwhelmed by an ever-growing number of vehicles and tourists, seems unable to maintain a traffic-free environment. Addressing this crisis, the city's administration unveiled a scheme aiming to counter the gridlocked predicament. A committee is already in place tasked to untangle this knotty situation. Primary actions entail introducing well-placed, clearly indicated bus stops in major city arteries. However, the city's management concedes the issue remains a formidable challenge due to the sheer number of public vehicles and insufficient driver discipline. In a tighter approach, the city plans to join forces with transit officials and law enforcement to enforce rigorous regulations. The ultimate hope is to regulate a slicker, better-organised transport system, alleviating congestive pain points and enhancing the holiday experience for tourists. If successful, Pattaya's leaders hope their rejuvenated thoroughfares will bolster what many view as the city's waning reputation, providing smoother commutes for locals and visitors alike. Much Wall Street, Chicago's Navy Pier, or the sparkle of Paris in the summer, Pattaya's streets just may be key to its thriving future as a premium tourist hot spot. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-21