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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

Patong punch-up: Foreign man swings at loud restaurant worker Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A foreign man physically assaulted a Thai restaurant worker in the Patong area of Phuket, reportedly due to annoyance at the worker loudly inviting customers into the restaurant. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343895-patong-punch-up-foreign-man-swings-at-loud-restaurant-worker/

A foreign man physically assaulted a Thai restaurant worker in the Patong area of Phuket, reportedly due to annoyance at the worker loudly inviting customers into the restaurant. The Phuket Times shared screenshots from CCTV footage of the physical assault today, November 18. However, the exact date of the incident has not been reported. “A foreign tourist acts like a thug, suddenly assaulting a Thai restaurant worker out of annoyance when the victim promoted and invited customers into the shop.” In the screenshots, the foreign attacker, dressed in a white tank top and white trousers, was seen walking along the street outside the restaurant with a foreign woman in a blue dress. The couple held hands and initially appeared to walk past the restaurant. However, the foreign man stopped, turned back, and confronted the male restaurant worker. He pushed the worker against a pole outside the restaurant and attacked him. The woman in the blue dress witnessed the incident but did not attempt to intervene. According to Phuket Times, the foreign attacker was allegedly annoyed by the Thai worker’s loud calls to attract passing customers. As no CCTV video has been publicly released, the exact motive for the assault cannot be confirmed. Many Thai netizens urged the restaurant worker to file a complaint with the police to bring the foreign attacker to justice. Others called on the media to provide further details, including a video of the incident, asserting that merely shouting to attract customers should not have led to such violence. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-18

Thailand set to ‘stir up’ the economy with juicy stimulus carrot Picture courtesy of Gluten Free Traveller Thailand is gearing up to dangle a glittering economic carrot with a new stimulus package set to roll out by year’s end, stretching well into 2025. This ambitious plan aims to supercharge the country’s economy, injecting life into key sectors and rallying national growth. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343894-thailand-set-to-‘stir-up’-the-economy-with-juicy-stimulus-carrot/

Thailand is gearing up to dangle a glittering economic carrot with a new stimulus package set to roll out by year’s end, stretching well into 2025. This ambitious plan aims to supercharge the country’s economy, injecting life into key sectors and rallying national growth. In the corridors of power, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat revealed that the top-tier economic stimulus committee, chaired by Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, will gather tomorrow, November 19. High on the agenda? Unveiling a hefty stimulus package destined to kick off by late 2024. Julapun highlighted the need for a meticulous timeline, indicating that the measures would call for cross-ministry collaboration to unleash a wave of economic activity through various channels. “The stimulus measures may be divided by sector and will include the cash handout scheme.” Thailand is gearing up to dangle a glittering economic carrot with a new stimulus package set to roll out by year’s end, stretching well into 2025. This ambitious plan aims to supercharge the country’s economy, injecting life into key sectors and rallying national growth. In the corridors of power, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat revealed that the top-tier economic stimulus committee, chaired by Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, will gather tomorrow, November 19. High on the agenda? Unveiling a hefty stimulus package destined to kick off by late 2024. Julapun highlighted the need for a meticulous timeline, indicating that the measures would call for cross-ministry collaboration to unleash a wave of economic activity through various channels. “The stimulus measures may be divided by sector and will include the cash handout scheme.” By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Gluten Free Traveller Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-18

Thailand fast-tracks labour law reforms to meet ILO standards Image courtesy of KhaoSod The Labour Ministry is fast-tracking revisions to key legislation to elevate the country’s labour rights to international standards. Spokesperson Phumipat Mueanchan confirmed that Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has prioritised updating the Labour Relations Act and the State Enterprise Labor Relations Act in alignment with International Labor Organisation (ILO) conventions. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343893-thailand-fast-tracks-labour-law-reforms-to-meet-ilo-standards/

The Labour Ministry is fast-tracking revisions to key legislation to elevate the country’s labour rights to international standards. Spokesperson Phumipat Mueanchan confirmed that Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has prioritised updating the Labour Relations Act and the State Enterprise Labor Relations Act in alignment with International Labor Organisation (ILO) conventions. These legislative changes aim to enhance workers’ rights, particularly focusing on collective wage negotiations, as stated in ILO Conventions number 87 and 98. If these revisions are sanctioned, they would significantly bolster labour rights in Thailand and meet long-standing demands from the workforce for better conditions. Labour Minister Phiphat also reaffirmed the government’s initiative to raise the minimum daily wage to 400 baht. He acknowledged the potential challenges this increase might pose to businesses but assured that the government would work to mitigate any adverse effects on vulnerable groups, especially farmers. A province-specific economic analysis is underway to determine appropriate wage adjustments. The minister further addressed measures to assist employees impacted by company closures, such as the recent shutdown of Funai (Thailand) Co Ltd in Nakhon Ratchasima. Affected workers have been offered unemployment compensation of 7,500 baht per month for six months through the Social Security Office (SSO). Moreover, the Labour Ministry is devising strategies to assist workers transitioning from traditional automotive roles to those in the burgeoning electric vehicle sector. The Just Economy and Labor Institute (JELI) recently collaborated with the House Committee on Labour to address pressing issues facing platform and migrant workers. The forum highlighted the precarious situation of over one million platform workers, including ride-hailing and food delivery service riders, who currently lack legal recognition and are not protected under existing labour laws. SSO Deputy Secretary-General Surasit Srikaew pointed out that 52.3% of Thailand’s workforce operates within the informal sector, often without access to pensions or social security benefits. An important step towards reinforcing labour rights was marked by the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) among labour groups. This MoU aims to promote cooperative efforts in achieving labour rights objectives, signalling a significant collaborative milestone in the pursuit of equitable working conditions, reported Bangkok Post. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-18

Thai police officer who died pursuing suspect in Phrae honoured Photo courtesy of Sanook A 22 year old police officer with a promising future, tragically died in the line of duty. He has been posthumously promoted and awarded special recognition following his brave actions while pursuing a suspect. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343678-thai-police-officer-who-died-pursuing-suspect-in-phrae-honoured/

A 22 year old police officer with a promising future, tragically died in the line of duty. He has been posthumously promoted and awarded special recognition following his brave actions while pursuing a suspect. Yesterday, November 14, National Police Chief Kittirat Phanphet revealed details surrounding the death of Sittiphong Kanta, a police officer from Sa-iab Police Station in Song district, Phrae province. The incident occurred when Sittiphong attempted to apprehend a drug-related suspect by jumping into a river in full uniform. The event unfolded on Wednesday, November 13. Investigations at Sa-iab Police Station reported receiving a call at approximately 2pm about a group of youths loitering near the Pha Ing River bridge in the Sa-iab subdistrict. Upon arrival, officers encountered a 37 year old construction worker working on a concrete bridge. When approached by the officers, Sittiphong requested to search. However, the worker, who had reportedly used methamphetamine, panicked and fled the scene. The police gave chase, and upon reaching the base of the Pha Ing bridge, the suspect jumped into the river in an attempt to escape. Sittiphong, determined to catch the suspect, followed suit, plunging into the river after him while still in uniform. Fellow officers quickly called for help from the rescue unit to assist in the search. Sittiphong’s body was tragically discovered at 6.15pm on Wednesday. Initial medical examination suggested that the cause of death was drowning, noting the river’s considerable depth. There were no signs of struggle or injuries found on the body. The national police chief expressed profound condolences to Sittiphong’s family, commending the young officer for his bravery. “We honour the courageous actions of Sittiphong Kanta, who gave his life in the pursuit of a drug suspect, in full uniform, and ultimately drowned. His valour is commendable, and his loss is a significant one for the national police force.” In recognition of his sacrifices, Kittirat has ordered special commendations for Sittiphong. His salary will be increased by three levels, and he has been posthumously promoted to the rank of Police Sergeant Major. The benefits extend to his family, who are entitled to various forms of assistance. This includes a welfare fund of 250,000 baht, a funeral support fund of 670,000 baht, and additional benefits totalling 989,300 baht. Arrangements for a ceremony to honour Sittiphong Kanta have been instructed to reflect the selflessness and dedication he showed in sacrificing his life for the nation, reported Sanook. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Sanook Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-15

Pattaya beach turns into unregulated booze and kratom market Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Pattaya Beach, a once serene paradise for tourists and locals, is now teetering on the edge of chaos as unlicenced vendors run rampant. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343673-pattaya-beach-turns-into-unregulated-booze-and-kratom-market/

Pattaya Beach, a once serene paradise for tourists and locals, is now teetering on the edge of chaos as unlicenced vendors run rampant. Once discreet, these sellers now brazenly set up stalls along the shoreline, peddling kratom-laced cocktails and alcoholic beverages, ignoring the law with apparent ease. Despite frequent police patrols, vendors openly resume business the moment officers leave, leaving residents and tourists baffled by the seemingly powerless enforcement. The personal consumption ruse has become the latest trick in their playbook. Vendors disguise alcohol and kratom drinks as if they’re meant for personal use, only to resume selling freely once the coast is clear. The scene isn’t limited to drinks either. A makeshift market has emerged, with beach chairs rented out to sunbathers, transforming the beach into an unregulated hub of trade. More than just a nuisance, these unregulated activities are also creating serious disruptions. Food and drink vendors with pushcarts, and even motorised vehicles, have joined the fray, parking on the beach roads and causing traffic jams. Local drivers and tourists face increasing congestion, a frustrating experience in what should be a relaxing environment. “This lawlessness isn’t just a petty nuisance, it’s a public safety issue,” said one frustrated visitor. “Traffic is blocked, there’s nowhere safe to walk, and the police don’t seem to be able to control it.” As Pattaya Beach’s illegal vendors continue to defy enforcement, questions arise over the effectiveness of current policing efforts. With public order and safety hanging in the balance, residents are calling for urgent action to restore peace at one of Thailand’s most popular beaches, reported Pattaya Mail. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-15

Anticipation Peaks as Tourists Seek Winter Chill at Doi Inthanon National Park File photo for reference only At Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai, the plummeting temperature to a fresh 9°C has welcomed an influx of tourists seeking an authentic encounter with winter chill. The breathtaking spectacle of nature, highlighted by picturesque grass and wildflower frost formations, are a charming lure. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343672-anticipation-peaks-as-tourists-seek-winter-chill-at-doi-inthanon-national-park/

At Doi Inthanon National Park in Chiang Mai, the plummeting temperature to a fresh 9°C has welcomed an influx of tourists seeking an authentic encounter with winter chill. The breathtaking spectacle of nature, highlighted by picturesque grass and wildflower frost formations, are a charming lure. Thailand's highest peak, Doi Inthanon, presents a unique offering of winter chill in a largely tropical country. Although the summit saw a slight temperature increase as the cold air mass retreated, it remains noticeably cool, drawing scores of local and international tourists to its stunning vistas. Notably, the Kiw Mae Pan viewpoint echoed these cold climes with an 11°C morning temperature. One of the unique attractions is the anticipation of the 'Maei Khap' frost. Local park head, Kriengkrai Chaipisate, shed light on the occurrences of this phenomenon. "The Maei Khap has historically appeared between 21 to 32 times over the November to February span in the past few years," he clarified, "The exact timing this year is eagerly awaited – it depends on the cold air mass pressure, largely influenced by China." The swarm of visitors, totalling 3,198 yesterday with an impressive surge of foreign explorers, illustrates the growing fame of Doi Inthanon. Unsurprisingly, the average daily boost in international visitor numbers surpassed 1,000. In conclusion, Doi Inthanon National Park continues its profound allure with its commanding chill and captivating frost. As we await the arrival of the first Maei Khap occurrence of the season, it effectively emphasises the Park’s interplay between the unique beauty of winter chill and Thailand's renowned tropical warmth. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-15

Crackdown on Crime during Festival Nets Firearms and Arrest in Sisaket File photo for reference only In the midst of the Loy Krathong celebrations, the local authorities carried out a successful crime crackdown recently in Sisaket province. The festive glow of the festival was accompanied by the diligent work of the police force who managed to seize firearms, ammunition and arrest a 45-year-old local man. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343671-crackdown-on-crime-during-festival-nets-firearms-and-arrest-in-sisaket/

In the midst of the Loy Krathong celebrations, the local authorities carried out a successful crime crackdown recently in Sisaket province. The festive glow of the festival was accompanied by the diligent work of the police force who managed to seize firearms, ammunition and arrest a 45-year-old local man. The operation, carried out in Huai Chan subdistrict of Khun Han district, was led by Chayaphon Namsuwan, a seasoned investigator at Khun Han Police Station. He was assisted by deputy investigator Wanchai Saichan, as well as local administrators and military personnel from Suranaree Military Camp's Task Force 3. Their diligent efforts resulted in the discovery of three locally manufactured rifles, various forms of bullets and shotgun shell, not to mention a black chainsaw. All this constitutes quite a haul, considering it part of a wider effort to maintain public security during the Loy Krathong festival - a time when communities come together to celebrate by floating decorative baskets on water bodies. The suspect, known simply as Wichai, has been charged with several offences - illegal possession of both firearms and ammunition without a permit, holding unauthorized ammunition, and even keeping a chainsaw without the necessary paperwork. To top it all, Wichai is also under legal scrutiny for the illegal use of methamphetamine, a Category 1 narcotic. Residents in Khun Han district are heaving sighs of relief at the police's proactive stance on crime, during a time of cultural festivities that draws a substantial crowd. The authorities' operation is intended to forestall any risks to public safety, ensuring a friendly and secure environment for locals and visitors alike. Following these events, law enforcement agencies emphasised once again the importance of the public reporting suspicious activities, and reminded everyone to follow the regulations in place regarding firearms and controlled items. The police were clear-cut about their stance on illegal weapon possession and drug use. They hold a zero-tolerance policy towards such activities, and stress on the legal repercussions for the perpetrators. Investigations are ongoing into Wichai’s activities, with the aim of bringing to light any other violations and to ensure justice is served. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-15

Phuket Guesthouse Drama: Favourite Staff Member Behind 1M Baht Jewellery Heist File photo for reference only Phuket guesthouse owner, 33-year-old Sophia Brussaard, experienced a shocking betrayal when she discovered her restaurant manager was responsible for the theft of nearly 1 million baht (£23,000) worth of her jewellery and luxury items. The theft was revealed to be a desperate attempt by the restaurant manager, overwhelmed by online gambling debts, to recover her losses. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343670-phuket-guesthouse-drama-favourite-staff-member-behind-1m-baht-jewellery-heist/

Phuket guesthouse owner, 33-year-old Sophia Brussaard, experienced a shocking betrayal when she discovered her restaurant manager was responsible for the theft of nearly 1 million baht (£23,000) worth of her jewellery and luxury items. The theft was revealed to be a desperate attempt by the restaurant manager, overwhelmed by online gambling debts, to recover her losses. The theft and recovery of the items marks a dramatic episode for the owner of Daeng guesthouse in the Kathu area of Phuket, Thailand. 38-year-old restaurant manager, Chanuphon, was arrested on November 14 by officers from Kamala Police Station following an investigation that began when Brussaard reported the theft. The stolen items, taken from Brussaard's personal quarters, included several family heirlooms and luxury pieces like a Rolex watch and several diamond rings, kept in an identifiable red jewellery box. The list of stolen goods also featured a 2.64-carat diamond ring valued at 70,000 baht (£1,600), a Cartier Panthere watch worth 159,000 baht (£3,600), and Chanel earrings priced at 15,000 baht (£340). Initially, police considered other employees who had access to spare keys as suspects. However, Chanuphon's history with gambling led them to closely examine her phone search history, which revealed that she had looked up the prices of luxury watches and diamond rings, suspiciously similar to the stolen items. Confronted with the incriminating evidence, Chanuphon confessed to the theft. She had sold a gold bracelet for 70,000 baht to reimburse her gambling debits and had sent the remaining stolen items to her boyfriend in Nakhon Sawan. In a timely intervention, police intercepted the package at the Phuket Post Office, effectively recovering the stolen valuables. Expressing profound gratitude to Kamala police, Brussaard has now been reunited with her stolen belongings. Chanuphon, regretting her desperate gamble, is now facing charges for theft, providing a cautionary tale for those ensnared by online gambling. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-15

Thailand Looks to Bolster Suvarnabhumi Airport as Southeast Asia's Top Transit Hub File photo for reference only The Suvarnabhumi Airport, internationally renowned and Thailand's busiest, is in for a significant overhaul with plans to be the top transit hub in Southeast Asia. The Airports of Thailand (AOT) have released an ambitious master plan aimed at boosting the percentages of transit flights from a mere 4% to a lofty 20%. The ultimate aim is to join the ranks of the world's top 20 airports by the year 2030. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343669-thailand-looks-to-bolster-suvarnabhumi-airport-as-southeast-asias-top-transit-hub/

The Suvarnabhumi Airport, internationally renowned and Thailand's busiest, is in for a significant overhaul with plans to be the top transit hub in Southeast Asia. The Airports of Thailand (AOT) have released an ambitious master plan aimed at boosting the percentages of transit flights from a mere 4% to a lofty 20%. The ultimate aim is to join the ranks of the world's top 20 airports by the year 2030. “Our goal is to accentuate Suvarnabhumi's strength as a regional hub by increasing transit flights to at least the 20% mark," said AOT President Keerati Kitmanawat. "Currently, we are only at 4%, while Singapore's Changi Airport has 40% of its flights under the transit category." To attain these lofty goals, AOT is looking at embedding themselves into discussions with leading airlines that include Thai Airways International and Star Alliance members. Their purpose is to establish more transit traffic at Suvarnabhumi. The AOT will also dip into its pockets to massively boost infrastructure. This ramping up has already begun, with the recent inauguration of a third runway which has escalated hourly capacity from 68 to a staggering 94 flights. Further projections include a proposed expansion of the East Terminal, which will be a 9-billion-baht project expected to receive cabinet approval in December. This expansion, slated for completion in 2027, will add carrying capacity to the tune of 15 million passengers on an annual basis. In a move to modernise, AOT will roll out an advanced biometric identification system across six Thai airports. This should augur well for the cause of both security and passenger convenience. This system, reliant on facial recognition, has already been launched for domestic passengers and is set to be available for international travellers from December 1st. With its portfolio of six airports, including Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, AOT accounts for a staggering 95% of Thailand’s air traffic. This firmly establishes Thailand as a major player in both regional and international aviation. Thus, the transformation of Suvarnabhumi Airport, by embracing transit flights and state-of-the-art infrastructure, offers a dynamic new chapter in Asian aviation. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-15

Thai Police to Benefit from Increased Allowances in New Fiscal Directive File photo for reference only Thailand's police force is set to receive a boost this year as an invitation to increase their allowances rings out from the office of National Police Chief, Kittirat Phanpetch. The directive, empowered on November 12, not only seeks to enhance officers' remuneration but foregrounds streamlined budget management and warns against misused funds. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343668-thai-police-to-benefit-from-increased-allowances-in-new-fiscal-directive/

Thailand's police force is set to receive a boost this year as an invitation to increase their allowances rings out from the office of National Police Chief, Kittirat Phanpetch. The directive, empowered on November 12, not only seeks to enhance officers' remuneration but foregrounds streamlined budget management and warns against misused funds. The circular, dispatched to numerous police divisions stretching from the Metropolitan Police Bureau to Provincial Police Regions 1 to 9, directs the modus operandi for 2024's fiscal budget management. Earmarking personnel management and performance-based budget appraisals, the guideline seeks to volley available finances in an attempt to bolster all precincts' operating aspects. Compared to the preceding fiscal year, the budget for 2024 will observe a significant increment, particularly in travel, accommodation, and fuel allowances. The decree underscores the prudent deployment of the budget for fuel to maintain operational efficiency and the provision of adequate remuneration for unfathomable overtime work dealt with, particularly by junior officers at the Deputy Inspector to Inspector rank. Fueled by the need to improve law enforcement operations, the directive mandates the judicious usage of allocated budgets. It insists on infallible abidance by the guidelines to fend off grievances stemming from officers not receiving the entitled funds. In terms of allowances, the priority is skewed towards officers performing high-risk crime prevention and investigation roles. The fiat is crystal on funds reaching officers directly and stipulates that no officer's remuneration should dip below the established allocation criteria to preclude non-payment complaints. There's a pay-grade-linked allowance system in place too. Deputy Inspectors to Inspectors have a slated allowance of 1,000 baht per month, while Sub-Inspectors to Non-commissioned officers can expect 800 baht. Accountable for their expenditure, police units are expected to prepare and submit their spending reports, meticulously laid out in an Excel format. To ensure compliance, police divisions are expected to supervise and carry out random audits on how fuel and allowance budgets are dispersed. The Auditor General's Office, too, is entrusted with inspecting budget disbursement documentation and performing random checks. If they spot any discrepancies or lapses, they're to flag it to the National Police Office, substantiating their claim with evidence. In closing, the Auditor General's office might need to keep their calendars free for regular compliance meetings. Furthermore, to help police officers blow the whistle on unjust short-payments, a complaint channel, Taen Jai application, has been established, allowing them to report any discrepancies in their allocations. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-15

Cyber police arrest scammer who defrauded politician’s daughter of 650,000 baht Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Cyber police apprehended a key player in a call centre scam that deceived the daughter of a Democrat Party deputy leader out of over 650,000 baht by impersonating officials from the Department of Special Investigation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343667-cyber-police-arrest-scammer-who-defrauded-politician’s-daughter-of-650000-baht/

Cyber police apprehended a key player in a call centre scam that deceived the daughter of a Democrat Party deputy leader out of over 650,000 baht by impersonating officials from the Department of Special Investigation. Police from Technology Crime Suppression Division 5 reported the arrest of 55 year old Suthep near a house in Wang Sala, Tha Muang district, Kanchanaburi. Suthep was detained under a warrant issued by the Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Court, dated October 30, on charges of defrauding the public by impersonating another person and introducing false information into a computer system. The arrest follows a complaint by 19 year old Paphavee Detdecho, the daughter of Chaichana Detdecho, a deputy leader of the Democrat Party. Paphavee had been targeted by a call centre scam that tricked her into transferring a considerable amount of money. The victim reported receiving a call from an individual claiming to be a police officer from Sai Mai Police Station, identifying himself as Adisak. The scammer inquired whether Paphavee had opened a Krung Thai Bank account linked to a suspect the police had apprehended. After she denied any involvement, the scammer suggested she verify her innocence by contacting a LINE account named Department of Special Investigation. Through this account, they requested her ID card photo and information about her bank account. To prove her innocence, she was persuaded to cooperate by transferring an initial sum of 56,000 baht (US$1,600), said Paphavee. “They continued the deception through a video call, during which the scammer wore a police uniform, further convincing her to transfer 100,000 baht (US$2,865) twice.” Scammer arrest The scam artists did not stop at that. After extracting three payments, they instructed Paphavee to return to her home province to gather more funds, threatening that failure to comply would result in her father and relatives being disgraced and the video call images being used for blackmail. Consequently, Paphavee travelled to Nakhon Si Thammarat to obtain money from her grandmother, transferring an additional 393,000 baht (US$11,255), making the total loss 650,000 baht (US$18,625). Suspecting foul play, she eventually realised she had been deceived and filed a complaint with the Nakhon Si Thammarat City Police. In the police investigation, Suthep confessed to being hired by a Chinese broker to open bank accounts. He admitted to crossing into Cambodia by natural routes in Aranyaprathet district, Sa Kaeo province, to complete the face-scanning process necessary for these fraudulent accounts, reported KhaoSod. The police have now transferred Suthep to the Nakhon Si Thammarat City Police for further legal proceedings. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-15

Russian man confirmed dead after fatal fall in Phuket hotel Picture courtesy of Patong Police A tragic incident unfolded in Phuket as police have confirmed the identity of a 37 year old Russian man who is believed to have fatally jumped from a hotel in Soi Paradise, Patong. The event took place on November 13 night, leaving police and locals in shock. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343666-russian-man-confirmed-dead-after-fatal-fall-in-phuket-hotel/