snoop1130

Rare 1-baht coin could fetch up to 100,000 baht Image courtesy of KhaoSod Collectors are buzzing with excitement over the recent discovery of a rare 1-baht coin from the reign of King Rama IX, featuring an unusual double-tail side. A renowned shop has revealed that finding such a coin could fetch up to 100,000 baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343919-rare-1-baht-coin-could-fetch-up-to-100000-baht/

Collectors are buzzing with excitement over the recent discovery of a rare 1-baht coin from the reign of King Rama IX, featuring an unusual double-tail side. A renowned shop has revealed that finding such a coin could fetch up to 100,000 baht. A report from yesterday, November 17, highlights the excitement in the collector’s community following a post by Panan Jewelry, a famous coin-buying shop located in Nai Wiang, Mueang district, Phrae province. The shop’s announcement has caused a stir among enthusiasts, as the 1-baht coin from the three-cycle commemoration of King Rama IX holds significant value, potentially reaching 100,000 baht if it exhibits certain unique features. Punnapat Sirareungwanit, the owner of Panan Jewellrey, disclosed that the 1-baht commemorative coin from King Rama IX’s 3-cycle era is highly sought after. The coin was initially minted in 1963, and although three million coins were produced, those with rare characteristics stand out in the collectors’ market, commanding prices in the six-figure range. Punnapat explained that owning such a coin could guarantee a value of at least several tens of thousands of baht. The coin, measuring approximately 27 millimetres in diameter and weighing 7.5 grammes, has been in circulation for over 60 years. According to a price guide, a coin in mint condition could sell for 250 to 300 baht. However, coins exhibiting unique features, whether they have been circulated or not, hold substantial value. Punnapat noted that a circulated coin could fetch around 10,000 baht, while uncirculated ones might start at 20,000 baht. As these are rare coins, final prices are negotiable. “In the collectors’ community, some coins have been found with the distinctive feature of having a tail side on both sides. These coins have been verified and registered by international institutions, confirming the existence of the rare 1-baht coin from 1963 with double tails.” The discovery has prompted caution among enthusiasts, as counterfeit coins are known to exist. Punnapat advised potential sellers to bring their coins to the shop for a free appraisal, emphasising the importance of contacting reputable collectors and avoiding scams, reported KhaoSod. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-18

Mysterious Chicken Deaths Spook Village: Supernatural or Simply Wild Animals? File photo for reference only In the quiet village of Pak Chong, nestled within Thailand's Buriram province, something rather peculiar has been ruffling feathers. Local chicken keepers, Jareum and Kaeo Dathong, awoke to find an alarming sight on a recent Buddhist holy day. A dozen of their chickens, normally sheltered within a coop positioned near an eastern sugarcane forest, were found dead, seemingly overnight, with four more missing without a trace. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343917-mysterious-chicken-deaths-spook-village-supernatural-or-simply-wild-animals/

In the quiet village of Pak Chong, nestled within Thailand's Buriram province, something rather peculiar has been ruffling feathers. Local chicken keepers, Jareum and Kaeo Dathong, awoke to find an alarming sight on a recent Buddhist holy day. A dozen of their chickens, normally sheltered within a coop positioned near an eastern sugarcane forest, were found dead, seemingly overnight, with four more missing without a trace. What transpired in the twilight hours remains shrouded in mystery, but the state of the deceased fowls lent itself to chilling conjecture. Each bird bore unnerving injuries — bite marks circling the neck, blood seemingly drained, some with heads severed and entrails oddly removed. An unnatural end, provoking uncanny whispers among the villagers. This cluster of mysterious poultry deaths wasn't an isolated incident. Earlier, identical instances had shaken the village, each coinciding eerily with Buddhist holy days. The lack of evident traces of predators initiated whispers of a supernatural hand — spectres known as Krasue or Phi Pob, assisted by reports of ethereal lights dancing above the treetops. To untangle the bizarre event's mystery, a team led by Suriyah Kawongklang, a veterinarian and the Buriram Provincial Livestock Office's Head of Animal Health Development, was dispatched. After a detailed analysis of the coop and the ghastly photographs of the slaughtered chickens, the officials mooted a more earthly suspect. The signs suggested attacks by a mongoose or a civet, known for their bills-on-neck, entrails-only predatory style. Despite the rational explanation, the village's old beliefs hold cognition captive. Supranatural stories, like those from 64-year-old villager, Wan, who insists on having seen lantern-like lights vanishing into the forest preceding the chicken fatalities, keep the eerie mystery alive. The assurances of the animal health development head are a poor match for the centuries-old local lore, ensuring the villagers continue to attribute these perplexing poultry deaths to the spectral agents, casting long shadows over the Buddhist holy days. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-18

High Stakes in Udon Thani: Thaksin, Pheu Thai Grapple with Rising People’s Party File photo for reference only The battle for control in Udon Thani is heightening ahead of the forthcoming Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) chief election. The spotlight is firmly trained on former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, aligned with the ruling Pheu Thai Party, as he vies for traction against the surging challenge from the People's Party. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343915-high-stakes-in-udon-thani-thaksin-pheu-thai-grapple-with-rising-people’s-party/

The battle for control in Udon Thani is heightening ahead of the forthcoming Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) chief election. The spotlight is firmly trained on former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, aligned with the ruling Pheu Thai Party, as he vies for traction against the surging challenge from the People's Party. Coming up on November 24th, the election underscores a key standoff between Pheu Thai's candidate, Sarawut Petchpanomporn, and his opponent from People's Party, Kanisorn Khurirangon. This face-off is widely viewed as a litmus test for the political potency of Thaksin's Pheu Thai Party, significantly so after his daughter took on the mantle of Prime Minister only three months ago. However, the People's Party’s campaign is not devoid of political heavyweights. Notable figures include Progressive Movement leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit and former Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat. The fledgling party has its eyes set on improving their telecommunications in local elections, where it has routinely been overshadowed by more established parties like the Pheu Thai. One vital shift observed in Thaksin’s campaign strategy involves public criticism of the People's Party stance on modifying Article 112, the lese majeste law. This tactical move paints Pheu Thai in a markedly more conservative hue and signals a possible repositioning on their defaulted political spectrum. This change, coming alongside whispers of a smoother relationship between Thaksin and military top brass post-Pheu Thai's successful government formation last year, augments the election implications manifold. The traditional backdrop of Udon Thani, a strong redoubt for Pheu Thai’s "red-shirt" supporters, has now turned into a political battleground. Election outcomes here could offer a substantial insight into Pheu Thai's abilities to retain its grip on local politics whilst embracing a more conservative ethos. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-18

Phuket's Sports Tourism Strategy Drives Record-Breaking Revenue Boost File photo for reference only In an impressive financial turnaround, Thailand's island gem Phuket is looking at an eye-popping 500 billion baht revenue surge in tourism this year. The secret ingredient in this success story? A clever strategy of promoting sports tourism – enticing visitors even during the traditional off-season, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) Phuket office. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343912-phukets-sports-tourism-strategy-drives-record-breaking-revenue-boost/

In an impressive financial turnaround, Thailand's island gem Phuket is looking at an eye-popping 500 billion baht revenue surge in tourism this year. The secret ingredient in this success story? A clever strategy of promoting sports tourism – enticing visitors even during the traditional off-season, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s (TAT) Phuket office. Lertchai Wangtrakuldee, TAT Phuket's Director, puts forth the argument that, effectively, there's no low season for this popular island anymore. Running from May to October, sports activities ranging from surfing, golf and marathon events, to Thai boxing competitions, ensure the island's vibrant appeal does not wane. Looking at the numbers, this sports-focused tourism strategy is a winning game, pushing a 16% increase in visitor influx from May to October versus the previous year. Remarkably, this year's figures are surging past pre-pandemic levels. Earnings-wise, the coming storms seem bountiful. A revenue projection between 450 and 500 billion baht this year will far outstrip the 440 billion baht target, setting a new record for Phuket. In a tourism game of numbers, fewer visitors but more revenue is a good play. While Chon Buri welcomed 19 million visitors and pocketed 200 billion baht from January to September, Phuket, in contrast, hosted only 9.5 million tourists but raked in a hefty 360 billion baht - a sum that translates to a high-thumbnail ballpark figure of 30 to 40 billion baht per month. A sizeable chunk of Phuket's magic revenue potion can be attributed to income from sports tourism, specifically the rising trend of Muay Thai among global travellers. The 30th Laguna Phuket Triathlon over the weekend garnered international attention with Kongsak Yodmanee, Sports Authority of Thailand's governor, praising the 1,000 athletes from worldwide who participated and pumped up local earnings. Adding to the positive tourism forecast, Phuket is expecting an influx of tourists from Kazakhstan after the inauguration of direct flights from the far-flung capital, Astana. This is another feather in the cap for Phuket, nominally solidifying its enviable status as Thailand's leading province in tourism revenue. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-18

Surprise Surge: Thai Economy Outperforms Expectations with 3% Growth File photo for reference only Thailand steeped everyone in a river of unexpected cheer today by announcing a dazzler of an economic performance. Official figures, freshly delivered to the public sphere on the 18th of November, show that the Thai economy grew by an impressive 3% in the third quarter of 2021 compared to the previous year. This stunning hike leaves the previously predicted 2.6% growth rates trailing in its wake. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343909-surprise-surge-thai-economy-outperforms-expectations-with-3-growth/

Thailand steeped everyone in a river of unexpected cheer today by announcing a dazzler of an economic performance. Official figures, freshly delivered to the public sphere on the 18th of November, show that the Thai economy grew by an impressive 3% in the third quarter of 2021 compared to the previous year. This stunning hike leaves the previously predicted 2.6% growth rates trailing in its wake. In a show of economic prowess, Thailand, the behemoth of Southeast Asia’s economy, also manifested a seasonally adjusted growth of 1.2% from July to September. In contrast, experts had only banked on a humble 0.8% growth. These developments cast a striking contrast to the previous quarter's rather ordinary growth narrative of just 2.2% annual and 0.8% quarterly rates. These robust figures, emerging from the vaults of the National Economic and Social Development Council, serve as a beacon of hope in an era of global economic doubts. Anticipations had not been high, owing to the shaky condition of global markets and regional stresses. Yet in the face of these odds, Thailand has sprung back with astonishing energy. Internally, domestic demand and certain exports sectors have proved hardier than anticipated. These promising trends have been further propped up by external factors. Government stimulus, a rejuvenation in consumer spending, and a resurgence in the tourism sector, a traditional linchpin of Thailand's economy, have collectively revved up the economy, leading it to fire on all cylinders. But amid this sunny landscape lurk concerns that could potentially cloud this jubilant outlook. Industry mavens caution against rocky external trends such as international trade conflicts and possible global slowdowns. As one sceptical analyst, preferring to remain unnamed, declared, "We must remain vigilant of external factors that could impact future growth." In a nutshell, while the third quarter results paint a buoyant picture for Thailand's economy, the future hinges precariously on external circumstances. Preserving this momentum will be a tug of war, requiring both constant vigilance and smart economic strategies. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-18

Thailand Steers Towards Free Trade, Green Economy at APEC Summit File photo for reference only At the recently concluded 31st Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting, Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra outlined her vision for a Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP) and advocated fervently for an increased dedication to green economy initiatives and sustainable development. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343908-thailand-steers-towards-free-trade-green-economy-at-apec-summit/

At the recently concluded 31st Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting, Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra outlined her vision for a Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP) and advocated fervently for an increased dedication to green economy initiatives and sustainable development. During the APEC Economic Leaders’ Retreat, chaired by Peru President Dina Ercilia Boluarte Zegarra in Lima, Prime Minister Shinawatra underscored the potent role of the APEC platform in fostering peace and shared prosperity amidst mounting global uncertainties. She positioned Thailand as a pivotal advocate for these ideals in her address to the assembly. "Our efforts within the APEC framework can unlock substantial economic potential, creating a level playing field for trade and investment which would immensely benefit the people and the world," said the Thai Prime Minister. Throughout her address, she consistently voiced themes of inclusivity and equal opportunities for all. As a hallmark of her commitment to regional economic integration, PM Shinawatra passionately advocated for the founding of the FTAAP to bolster trade sustainability and enhance economies across the region. She appealed to her fellow APEC leaders to ramp up both physical and digital connectivity, stressing the importance of digital infrastructure advancement and the expansion of the APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC). Addressing the urgent need for sustainability, she urged APEC to continue implementing the Bangkok Goals centred on a Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) economy. Setting ambitious green transition targets, advocating for in-depth discussions on carbon credit markets and trade, and emphasising the importance of enhancing food security via advanced agricultural technology were other key aspects of her speech. The APEC meeting concluded with the endorsement of three key documents all geared towards promoting free trade, sustainable development and formalisation of the global economy. Parallel to this, PM Shinawatra engaged in dialogues about cutting-edge technology such as energy, electric vehicles, and artificial intelligence. In addition, technology behemoths like TikTok, Microsoft, and Google exhibited zest to invest in Thailand, with Google planning to establish a cloud region and data centre there, backed by an investment of US$1 billion. This venture, according to the PM's spokesperson, is forecasted to generate over 14,000 jobs in the period 2025-2029 and produce an economic value of almost US$4 billion by 2029. The APEC's collaborative momentum coupled with Thailand's strategic approach paints a promising picture of future economic growth and sustainability in the Asia-Pacific region. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-18

Challenges Charging Thailand's Electric Vehicle Ambitions Despite Chinese Investment File photo for reference only Thailand's electric vehicle (EV) industry is experiencing dark clouds of uncertainty amid the bright sparks of innovation and development. An initial surge in EV adoption has been marred by disappointing domestic car sales, sluggish economic growth, hampering household debt, and competitive pricing wars. While Chinese EV manufacturers are keen to tap into Thailand's potential, the comparatively high production costs present significant obstacles. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343905-challenges-charging-thailands-electric-vehicle-ambitions-despite-chinese-investment/

Thailand's electric vehicle (EV) industry is experiencing dark clouds of uncertainty amid the bright sparks of innovation and development. An initial surge in EV adoption has been marred by disappointing domestic car sales, sluggish economic growth, hampering household debt, and competitive pricing wars. While Chinese EV manufacturers are keen to tap into Thailand's potential, the comparatively high production costs present significant obstacles. The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has revised its projection for new EV registrations in 2024, down to 80,000 from an intended 100,000. This figure reflects the sluggish state of the country's automotive industry and the overall economic stagnancy. Between January and August, Thailand saw approximately 48,000 new EV registrations, an 11% increase from the previous year. However, this progress still falls short of the initial target, and mirrors the nation's broader economic challenges. Given the disappointing figures, the Automotive Industry Club has reduced its car manufacturing ambitions for 2024 to 1.7 million units, down from the initial target of 1.9 million. Interestingly, Thai consumers are reaping the benefits from the EV price war, cashing in on significant tax breaks and incentives, particularly from Chinese brands. China's dominance in global EV battery production aids in cutting costs dramatically. Still, some manufacturers, such as Changan Automobile, voice concerns over the price war's potential damage to brand trust and consumer confidence in EVs. Not all are concerned though. Luxury car giant, Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) seems quite aloof about these conflicts. Their distinct target market allows them to remain unmoved even as the EV market whirls around them. However, for Chinese investors looking to exploit Thailand's potential, the cost of local components and energy may pose significant challenges. Despite these obstacles, Changan plans an ambitious investment of 10 billion baht in Thailand by 2025, with an aim to roll out 100,000 EVs annually. Certainly, as the EV industry navigates these challenges, Thailand's dreams of becoming an EV powerhouse will be tested. The ability to weather economic uncertainties and pricing pressures will undoubtedly be essential for long-term success in this automotive race. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-18

Facebook Scams Cost Thailand Over 718 Million Baht Last Year File photo for reference only Facebook scams have cost Thailand a massive 718 million baht (£16.5 million) in the past year, according to a recent announcement by Digital Economy and Society (DES) Minister, Prasert Jantararuangtong. More than a million complaints poured into the Anti-Online Scam Operation Centre, leading to the suspension of over 348,000 Facebook accounts suspected of fraudulent activities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343904-facebook-scams-cost-thailand-over-718-million-baht-last-year/

Facebook scams have cost Thailand a massive 718 million baht (£16.5 million) in the past year, according to a recent announcement by Digital Economy and Society (DES) Minister, Prasert Jantararuangtong. More than a million complaints poured into the Anti-Online Scam Operation Centre, leading to the suspension of over 348,000 Facebook accounts suspected of fraudulent activities. The figures released by Minister Jantararuangtong highlight a growing concern for brigades of fraudsters using social media platforms to perpetrate scams, with Facebook playing home to more than 26,000 such cases. Furthermore, these online scams weren't limited to the social giants; dubious call centres and websites accounted for nearly 40,000 cases, leading to cumulative losses of around two billion baht (£46 million). Interestingly, the impact wasn't evenly felt across the country. The majority of incidents occurred in Bangkok, which recorded over 84,000 cases and consequently suspended almost 50,000 accounts suspected of fraudulent activity. Other hard-hit areas included Samut Prakan, Nonthaburi, Chon Buri, and Pathum Thani, ranking among the five top provinces with the most scam cases. The data also revealed that individuals between 20 and 49 years were most targeted—mainly fell prey to online job and investment scams, leading to losses totalling around 8.2 billion baht (£189 million). Those aged 50 and above weren't far behind, with investment fraud accounting for nearly 42,000 cases and losses close to 7.8 billion baht (£180 million). In response to these shocking figures, DES Minister Jantararuangtong assured that the Anti-Online Scam Operation Centre is working around the clock to combat these issues. Equipped with a 24/7 hotline and the ability to freeze suspicious accounts within minutes, the centre has contributed to a marked decrease in the number of reported cases in recent months. This drop, credited to enhanced collaboration between agencies, offers a glimmer of hope against this digital menace and represents a step towards creating a more secure online space for all. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-18

Nonthaburi village in shock after motorcycle shooting spree Image courtesy of KhaoSod A sudden series of shootings left residents of a Nonthaburi village in shock when a man on a motorcycle fired shots at four houses. Despite having no prior conflicts, homeowners were bewildered and frightened by the unprovoked attacks. Local police are now investigating. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343903-nonthaburi-village-in-shock-after-motorcycle-shooting-spree/

A sudden series of shootings left residents of a Nonthaburi village in shock when a man on a motorcycle fired shots at four houses. Despite having no prior conflicts, homeowners were bewildered and frightened by the unprovoked attacks. Local police are now investigating. Yesterday, November 17, a concerning event unfolded in Bang Bua Thong, Nonthaburi, as reported by Yanyong Kamjai, a member of the Phimonrat Municipal Council. A middle-aged man on a motorcycle entered a village, brandishing a firearm and proceeded to shoot at four houses. This incident prompted Yanyong to investigate the scene further. An employee at a nearby curtain shop, 35 year old Narueamon recounted her terrifying experience. While shopping near the entrance at around 11am, she heard six gunshots. Turning to look, she saw a large, intimidating man on a motorcycle emerging from the alley, locking eyes with her. The encounter left her frightened. After the man departed, she checked the CCTV footage. The footage revealed the man initially riding into the alley and glaring at her house before turning and firing an unknown gun at her property. Narueamon, still shaken from the incident revealed that she never had issues with anyone in the area, expressing her confusion over the ordeal and why would someone shoot at her house. Across the village, 66 year old Napasara, another homeowner, shared her account. During the occurrence, she heard what sounded like gunfire outside her house six times. Initially dismissive of the noise, she was later informed by a neighbour about the shooting. Upon reviewing her CCTV footage, it confirmed a person firing a gun at the house opposite hers. Napasara was baffled as there were no known conflicts in their peaceful neighbourhood. Yanyong, after receiving numerous reports from the villagers, arrived to assess the situation. The CCTV review showed a tall, large man on a blue motorcycle entering the alley and firing shots at four homes. Yanyong speculated it might have been an intimidation attempt or a misdirected attack, as surprisingly, none of the targeted houses bore bullet marks. This led to the suspicion that the man might have been using practice bullets or a BB gun. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-18

Thai man arrested for assaulting ex-girlfriend, citing black magic, concealing HIV Photo via Channel 7 Police in Samut Prakan province near Bangkok arrested a Thai man for allegedly assaulting his ex-girlfriend, accusing her of concealing her HIV-positive status and casting a black magic spell on him. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343902-thai-man-arrested-for-assaulting-ex-girlfriend-citing-black-magic-concealing-hiv/

Police in Samut Prakan province near Bangkok arrested a Thai man for allegedly assaulting his ex-girlfriend, accusing her of concealing her HIV-positive status and casting a black magic spell on him. The woman, whose identity remains undisclosed, filed a complaint against her 30 year old ex-boyfriend, Nattawut, accusing him of stealing a CCTV camera from her house, assaulting her, and causing distress to her family. Officers from the Mueang Phra Samut Chedi Police Station apprehended Nattawut at his rented residence on Soi Pracha Uthit 101 in Bangkok on November 17. While Nattawut admitted to causing trouble for his ex-girlfriend and her family, he denied physically assaulting her. Nattawut’s 60 year old mother, Sathita, defended her son, claiming he was a good person but had been using drugs for five years. She said the couple was together for nine years after meeting on Facebook, and her son supported his ex-girlfriend, who was unemployed. Sathita denied her son had ever hurt the woman, stating that if he had, the family would have heard the noises as they were home daily. She added that Nattawut even allowed his father to hit him during arguments to protect his girlfriend, insisting her son loved the woman deeply. The mother further alleged that the ex-girlfriend and her mother admitted to casting a black magic spell on Nattawut, which she claimed made him more aggressive. Sathita demanded that the ex-girlfriend and her mother reverse the alleged spell. Sathita also accused the woman of hiding her HIV-positive status and infecting her son. Police not convinced Nattawut confessed to using methamphetamine, commonly known as Yaba, on the day of the incident. He admitted to disturbing his ex-girlfriend but maintained he did not physically harm her. He claimed he acted out of jealousy after learning another man was pursuing her. On the day of the incident, Nattawut reportedly took his ex-girlfriend to collect her HIV medication. However, she allegedly jumped off his motorcycle and accused him of assaulting her. Police were not convinced by Nattawut’s and his mother’s claims and charged Nattawut with the following offences: Section 335 of the Criminal Law: committing theft at night. The penalty is imprisonment from one to five years and a fine from 20,000 to 100,000 baht. Section 295 of the Criminal Law for physically assaulting another person, resulting in both physical and mental harm. The penalty carries up to two years of imprisonment, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both. Section 397 of the Criminal Law: bullying, oppressing, threatening, causing embarrassment, and causing annoyance to another person. The penalty is a fine of up to 5,000 baht. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-18

Intoxicated tourist detained after Pattaya restaurant altercation An intoxicated tourist was apprehended in Pattaya following an alleged assault on a restaurant owner’s husband. The incident unfolded at a restaurant in Soi Pratumnak 4. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343900-intoxicated-tourist-detained-after-pattaya-restaurant-altercation/

An intoxicated tourist was apprehended in Pattaya following an alleged assault on a restaurant owner’s husband. The incident unfolded at a restaurant in Soi Pratumnak 4. At 3.06am, today, November 18, 45 year old Grongkan Ketwetchasuriya, the owner of the establishment, approached Deputy Chief of Investigation, Sakyachai Chaidet, at the Pattaya City Police Station, seeking assistance in handling the unruly foreigner. Police officers promptly arrived at the scene, encountering the tourist, who was visibly intoxicated and incoherent. The man, whose identity and nationality remain a mystery, was injured with a head wound. Described as a white male between 30 and 35 years old, he spoke English fluently but had no identification on him. He was subsequently taken to the Pattaya City Police Station, where rescue workers administered first aid. Grongkan recounted that the tourist attempted to use the restaurant’s services after closing hours. Upon informing him of the closure, the tourist expressed dissatisfaction. Being alone, she called her foreign husband for assistance. Despite efforts from a neighbouring cannabis shop owner to persuade the tourist to leave, he resisted. The confrontation escalated when the intoxicated man allegedly struck Grongkan’s husband with a bottle. In defence, her husband retaliated with a stick, resulting in injuries to the tourist. For Grongkan, the situation seemed to be continuously escalating, hence she felt it was necessary to contact the police. Grongkan supplied police with CCTV footage and video evidence that seemingly illustrated the tourist as the aggressor in the altercation. The foreigner, detained in a holding cell at the Pattaya City Police Station, will remain there until he regains sobriety. Police plan to question him to ensure a fair investigation for everyone involved, reported Pattaya News. By Ryan Turner Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-18

UPDATE: 10 year old homeless boy steals 3.5 million baht from Aussien woman in Pattaya Photo via ThaiRath Police yesterday arrested a 10 year old homeless Thai boy for stealing valuables worth 3.5 million baht from an Australian businesswoman staying in a rented house in Pattaya on Saturday, November 16. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343762-australian-businesswoman’s-condo-in-pattaya-robbed-over-3-million-baht-stolen/page/2/#findComment-19390416

Thai transwoman and foreign man clash on gender misunderstanding in Phuket Photo by porkandchicken via Flickr A brawl erupted between a Thai transwoman and a foreign man at a hotel in Phuket after the foreigner refused to pay upon discovering her gender. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343898-thai-transwoman-and-foreign-man-clash-on-gender-misunderstanding-in-phuket/

A brawl erupted between a Thai transwoman and a foreign man at a hotel in Phuket after the foreigner refused to pay upon discovering her gender. A source, who wishes to remain anonymous, reported the altercation between the Thai transwoman and the foreign man to the local news Facebook page, Phuket Times, on November 18. The page shared a post. “Phuket: A foreign tourist took a Thai girl to a hotel, only to find that she was not a woman but a transwoman. He chased her away and refused to compensate her for wasting her time, as she requested. They then involved in an altercation.” The Facebook page provided more details in the comments section. According to the news source, the foreign man asked the transwoman to leave the hotel, stating that he did not know she was not a woman. During the argument, they threw items at each other in the hotel room, causing chaos in the hotel. The incident reportedly took place in the Patong area of Phuket. The post garnered significant attention from Thai netizens, receiving over 5,000 reactions, 720 likes, and 190 shares. Some netizens criticised the transwoman for not revealing her gender upfront. “Hey! You should have told him the truth. It’s not bad at all that you are a transwoman but you must tell the truth. This is about sexual preference. Many people like you, but some don’t.” “This happens in every hotel in Phuket. I witnessed it once at my hotel. The transwoman was kicked out of the room!” “Hiding the truth about gender can lead to many issues, and sometimes it can be fatal. I was a receptionist at a hotel, and a foreign guest attempted suicide after he unknowingly slept with a transwoman. A maid saved him in time.” “This is about consumer rights. All transwomen should be honest. You would never waste your time if you told him the truth from the start. We have different sexual preferences, and no one can force anyone to like what they don’t.” By Petch Petpailin Photo by porkandchicken via Flickr Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-18