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Orange Line Construction Promises Progress But Triggers Traffic Turmoil in Bangkok File photo for reference only In a move that promises future convenience but immediate traffic chaos, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is set to close and demolish three key flyovers in the city. This is part of the infrastructure work for the expansion of the MRT Orange Line, causing widespread traffic disruptions in some of the city's busiest areas from tomorrow, November 15. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343577-orange-line-construction-promises-progress-but-triggers-traffic-turmoil-in-bangkok/

In a move that promises future convenience but immediate traffic chaos, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is set to close and demolish three key flyovers in the city. This is part of the infrastructure work for the expansion of the MRT Orange Line, causing widespread traffic disruptions in some of the city's busiest areas from tomorrow, November 15. The BMA unveiled its plans yesterday to dismantle the well-worn flyovers at the intersections of Pratunam, Ratchathewi, and Sutthawat as part of the expansion project, stretching the Orange Line from Bang Khun Non to Min Buri (Suwinthawong). Bangkok's drivers are being advised to be patient and prepared for inevitable changes and delays as the city braces for this massive transport transformation. The first traffic disruptions will start tomorrow when construction barriers will go up at the Ratchathewi and Pratunam intersections. The Orange Line station construction at these locations will officially begin, led by the Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Co Ltd (BEM). BEM aims to mitigate traffic upheaval by carrying out staggered road closures and providing a comprehensive timeline of construction. As for the individual flyovers, the demolition of the Ratchathewi and Sutthawat flyovers is penciled in for the 6th and 15th of January respectively. The iconic Pratunam flyover, Thailand’s first built in 1966, is scheduled for demolition in March 2026, followed by a new flyover rise between April and November the same year. But the project isn't just about the flyover facelifts. There's also the small matter of rerouting utilities and digging out space for a new underground tunnel. With the flyovers currently serving as crucial arterial roads, the BMA acknowledges that these closures will have a serious impact on Bangkok’s traffic. In response, they are working diligently with district offices to manage traffic as best as possible. To keep certain roads open during the day, most construction tasks are planned for the night. It's all set to be a test of Thai patience as Bangkok unlocks its future transport potential amidst present upheaval. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-14

Police in Thailand seize 5 million meth tablets in Bangkok drug bust Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Thailand apprehended suspects in possession of over 5 million methamphetamine tablets intended for distribution within Bangkok’s central areas. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343575-police-in-thailand-seize-5-million-meth-tablets-in-bangkok-drug-bust/

Police in Thailand apprehended suspects in possession of over 5 million methamphetamine tablets intended for distribution within Bangkok’s central areas. The operation, which reflects the government’s intensified efforts to eradicate drug trafficking in Thailand, also resulted in the seizure of three mobile phones. The suspects were detained and are set to face legal proceedings. The crackdown is part of a broader strategy led by the Royal Thai Army (RTA), under the directive of Pana Klaewplodthuk, Commander-in-Chief of the RTA. This initiative is in response to the government’s policy urging all security agencies to collaborate in the fight against drug-related crimes. The army’s intelligence units have swiftly acted upon this directive, launching operations to dismantle networks involved in drug transportation to the country’s inner regions. Tateeranan Nantakhwang, head of the military intelligence unit, assigned Supot Sawakompun, leader of the Special Warfare Command’s intelligence unit, to spearhead the anti-drug task force. The operation involved the military’s intelligence centre along with police officers from the Narcotics Suppression Bureau’s Division 1 and the Drug Intelligence Division. Together, they conducted investigations, identified targets, and executed the arrest of suspects transporting the narcotics from the northeastern region to central Thailand. On November 9, the joint task force successfully detained the suspects along Highway 2003, in front of a house in Moo 3, Pho Sam Ton subdistrict, Bang Pa-han district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province. The suspects were intercepted while attempting to transfer the drugs to a designated storage site in preparation for distribution. Police identified the suspects as Wisit and Taweesak, withholding their last names for privacy reasons. The search of the suspects’ vehicle, a white Toyota box truck with a Nakhon Ratchasima registration, uncovered a massive haul of 20 bags containing approximately 5,034,000 methamphetamine tablets. Alongside the narcotics, three mobile phones were seized as evidence. During preliminary questioning, the suspects admitted their plan to distribute the drugs across central Thailand, further explaining their role in the broader network, reported KhaoSod. “The suspects confessed to plans of distributing the drugs across central regions, aiming for widespread distribution,” police revealed. Following the arrest, the suspects, along with the confiscated evidence, were handed over to the investigation officers of the Narcotics Suppression Bureau for further legal proceedings and to expand the investigation into the drug network. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-14

Motorcyclist dies in fiery crash with pickup in Kanchanaburi Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 21 year old man tragically died when his motorcycle collided with the rear of a pickup truck towing a trailer loaded with bamboo huts, resulting in a fire that engulfed him. The incident occurred yesterday, November 13, at 7pm on a poorly lit road in Kanchanaburi province. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343574-motorcyclist-dies-in-fiery-crash-with-pickup-in-kanchanaburi/

A 21 year old man tragically died when his motorcycle collided with the rear of a pickup truck towing a trailer loaded with bamboo huts, resulting in a fire that engulfed him. The incident occurred yesterday, November 13, at 7pm on a poorly lit road in Kanchanaburi province. Police officers from the Laokhwan Police Station received a report of the accident involving a motorcycle and the trailer of a pickup truck transporting bamboo huts. Upon receiving the report, they coordinated with the local fire department and rescue teams to respond to the scene on the Nong Fai-Huai Ruak road in Nong Fai sub-district, Laokhwan district. Upon arrival, responders found the bamboo huts on the trailer ablaze. Firefighters quickly sprayed water to control the fire, which had already consumed the motorcycle and the rider. The charred remains of the motorcycle, a Yamaha MSX with an unidentifiable license plate, were discovered among the burnt bamboo huts. The victim was identified as 21 year old Aditep. “The pickup driver missed the turn to the customer’s house, which led to me getting out to direct traffic. Unfortunately, this coincided with the motorcycle approaching at high speed, colliding with the trailer,” explained a worker, identified only as A, who was part of the team transporting the bamboo huts. The worker further elaborated that despite attempts to extinguish the fire with water, he was unable to prevent the flames from consuming both the motorcycle and its rider. The absence of street lighting on this two-lane road likely contributed to the motorcyclist’s inability to see the trailer in time, according to initial police assessments. Police suspect that as the motorcycle sped along the unlit road, the rider failed to notice the bamboo huts on the trailer, leading to the tragic collision. The impact caused sparks that ignited leaking fuel from the motorcycle’s tank, resulting in the fire that ultimately claimed the young man’s life, reported KhaoSod. The police intend to hold the driver of the pickup truck, involved in the accident, for further questioning to ensure a thorough investigation. Legal proceedings will follow based on the findings. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-14

Elderly woman rescued as fire engulfs Nonthaburi factory Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A dramatic fire unfolded at a parquet factory in Sai Noi, Nonthaburi, last night leaving an elderly woman narrowly escaping harm. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343573-elderly-woman-rescued-as-fire-engulfs-nonthaburi-factory/

A dramatic fire unfolded at a parquet factory in Sai Noi, Nonthaburi, last night leaving an elderly woman narrowly escaping harm. The fire broke out around 9pm yesterday, November 13, at the unnamed factory, located at 14/12 Village 1, Khlong Khwang, Sai Noi, covering an area of over 2 rai. Firefighters from Sai Noi’s municipal office and local administration were promptly dispatched to the scene with four fire engines, successfully bringing the blaze under control within 30 minutes. Partial damage was reported to the machinery and parquet wood stored inside the factory. A witness, 60 year old Praphai Jampa, saw the fire while livestreaming from his air conditioning installation shop opposite the factory. Upon noticing the fire, he acted swiftly to rescue 82 year old Chamnian, who was residing in the factory. Despite being in a state of shock, Chamnian was unharmed and safe, though she provided limited information due to the distressing circumstances. “I was live streaming at my shop when the power flickered. Initially, I thought it was a faulty plug, but then the power went out entirely. I checked outside and saw the factory ablaze, with people shouting that there was a fire. I immediately stopped the livestream to help Chamnian, who was still asleep on her bed. I carried her out to safety on the roadside.” Chamnian’s residence on the factory’s ground floor made her vulnerable, as she was bedridden. Praphai’s quick intervention ensured her safety, and despite the smoke, he prioritised her evacuation, later calling the fire department, which arrived promptly. Praphai expressed relief that the damage was minimal and remarked that the entire factory might have been consumed by flames if the fire had not been discovered early. Nattaporn Junkkaew, the deputy mayor of Sai Noi, confirmed that the municipality was alerted to the fire around 8.15pm yesterday. The factory, used for storing and manufacturing parquet wood, had its owner and employees evacuated safely with no reported injuries. The fire’s origin was traced to a pile of parquet wood, although the cause remains unknown. Yun, a 40 year old worker from Laos, provided insights into the situation. He explained that the fire originated from the wood storage area, typically occupied by workers during the day but vacant at the time of the incident. He noted that no one was smoking in the vicinity. During the fire, Chamnian was inside the warehouse, but quick actions by Praphai ensured her safety before Yun noticed the spreading flames. “When I saw the fire intensifying, I rushed to check and realized someone had already rescued Chamnian. It was a relief to see her safe.” Police have documented the scene and will continue investigating the fire’s cause. Coordination with forensic experts from Nonthaburi is underway for a thorough examination of the site, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-14

Neighbourhood Noise Spat Spirals into Nasty Stabbing in Phuket File photo for reference only In a shocking incident, a minor neighbourly disagreement in Phuket escalated into fraught violence, leading to one man being brutally stabbed in the early hours of Sunday, November 14. The dispute originated in Soi Bo Som, Mai Khao, a seemingly peaceful locale, when a noise complaint devolved into appalling violence. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343571-neighbourhood-noise-spat-spirals-into-nasty-stabbing-in-phuket/

In a shocking incident, a minor neighbourly disagreement in Phuket escalated into fraught violence, leading to one man being brutally stabbed in the early hours of Sunday, November 14. The dispute originated in Soi Bo Som, Mai Khao, a seemingly peaceful locale, when a noise complaint devolved into appalling violence. The local police assigned to Tha Chatchai rushed to the crime scene after reception of the distress call at 1:10 am. Upon arrival, they found that medical personnel had already evacuated the victim, Jirasak Damsom, 46, to Thalang Hospital. The Trang native had been savagely stabbed multiple times in the heat of the altercation. According to witnesses, Damsom was enjoying beverages with friends when the accused, Suebsakun On-yen, 43, approached him with complaints about noise. The exchange of harsh words soon flared up tempers, culminating in On-yen allegedly stabbing Damsom up to four times. Hospital reports later confirmed this figure based on the wounds inflicted. In a peculiar development post the incident, On-yen decided to remain at the scene and calmly waited for law enforcement. Upon their arrival, the Ranong man was promptly apprehended, handcuffed, and transported to Tha Chatchai Police Station. “On-yen remained at the crime scene to surrender himself and was then taken for extensive questioning”, recounted a police spokesperson. Investigation teams are now diligently combing through every aspect of the brutal assault. Their objective, to unravel the entire narrative of this gruesome altercation, to understand the violent trigger, and to achieve clarity on this horrific event. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-14

Swift Police Action Thwarts Abduction in Chanthaburi Within 24 Minutes File photo for reference only A brazen daylight abduction took a wild turn yesterday when swift police action led to the arrest of four men in Chanthaburi. A 50-year-old construction worker named Nakarin was assaulted and forcibly taken in a hired taxi by the attackers. According to authorities, the incident unfolded outside a convenience store and was reported to the police at exactly 3:41 pm on November 13 by an alert bystander. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343570-swift-police-action-thwarts-abduction-in-chanthaburi-within-24-minutes/

A brazen daylight abduction took a wild turn yesterday when swift police action led to the arrest of four men in Chanthaburi. A 50-year-old construction worker named Nakarin was assaulted and forcibly taken in a hired taxi by the attackers. According to authorities, the incident unfolded outside a convenience store and was reported to the police at exactly 3:41 pm on November 13 by an alert bystander. Led by Police Colonel Traisit Pokkathammachai, the police acted with commendable alacrity by setting up checkpoints and intercepting the vehicle at 4:05 pm. The suspects were apprehended barely 10 kilometres away from the crime scene, near a police station in Ban Trok Nong, Khluang. Upon investigation, it was revealed that Nakarin and his attackers were former colleagues. The crux of their conflict lay in a failed vehicle loan transaction. Nakarin, who had a previous drug arrest record, had borrowed a white Isuzu vehicle from one of the attackers named Khemthat for a day trip to Sa Kaeo on October 27. The bone of contention was that Nakarin failed to return the vehicle after two days and went off the grid, prompting Khemthat to lodge a police complaint. In their quest to retrieve the vehicle, the ex-colleagues hired a taxi from Nonthaburi to Chanthaburi, where Nakarin lived. Locating him outside a convenience store, they launched their attack, proceeded to tie him up, and force him into the taxi to track down the car. “It’s my fault,” Nakarin reportedly admitted during the ordeal. The taxi driver, Somkid TaenThaisong, hired by the suspects for 2,500 baht to drive them from Nonthaburi to Chanthaburi, shared his version of the events. He unsuspectingly drove his passengers to Ban Khluang. The assailants disembarked at an intersection, attacked Nakarin, and brought him back to the vehicle, tied up and visibly beaten up. Somkid revealed a last-minute change of plans by the attackers from heading back to Bangkok to Sa Kaeo instead, just before the police intercepted them. The arrested men, including Nakarin, are being subjected to further questioning and drug testing before proceeding to legal actions. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-14

Friendly Banter Turns Violent at Pattaya Beach: Bottled Banter in Late-Night Booze-Up File photo for reference only In the early hours of this morning, a benign seaside gathering of two friends at Pattaya Beach took an unanticipated turn. Fueled by alcohol, a lighthearted jape including untoward touching led to a burst of violence that left one individual nursing a nasty head injury. The incident occurred at 2.36am today, as reported by Deputy Inspector Alice Puangsai of the Pattaya City Police Station. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343569-friendly-banter-turns-violent-at-pattaya-beach-bottled-banter-in-late-night-booze-up/

In the early hours of this morning, a benign seaside gathering of two friends at Pattaya Beach took an unanticipated turn. Fueled by alcohol, a lighthearted jape including untoward touching led to a burst of violence that left one individual nursing a nasty head injury. The incident occurred at 2.36am today, as reported by Deputy Inspector Alice Puangsai of the Pattaya City Police Station. The two friends, Blue and Jack (names changed for anonymity), made merry at the popular beach, with the harmless banter and cheers escalating to a regrettable event. Both parties had been friends from their childhood and belonged to the same village. As Jack, fuelled by inebriation, crossed the line of friendly ribbing, things took a tumultuous turn. The tipping point arrived when Jack seemingly touched Blue's private parts, leading to an immediate escalation of anger and confusion. Not playing along, a disgruntled Blue retaliated by smashing a beer bottle on Jack's head, leaving him bleeding profusely. Upon receiving the distress call, law enforcement and the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Pattaya City rescue team promptly reached the scene. They found Blue with a deep head injury, swiftly providing on-spot treatment before rushing him to the hospital. Interestingly, Jack didn't leave the scene. Instead, he waited, spilling the night's happenings to the authorities. The broken beer bottle added to the evidence while Blue filled in the rest of the account. The morning aftermath revealed that the incident was an impulsive act under alcohol's influence rather than a deep-rooted grudge. Despite the night's bitter experience, both lads showed no ill feelings and promised to smooth things over. Channel 7 reported that the Pattaya City police took note of the incident, exchanged contact details and left the scene, trusting the friends to amicably resolve their misunderstandings. The incident serves as a stark reminder to alcohol consumers about the unpredictable nature of one’s actions under the substance's influence. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-14

Thai Influencer Held in Online Gambling Crackdown File photo for reference only Yesterday, an online influencer named Sek Atsada - but better known by his screen name "Tee Oros" - found himself facing arrest in Thailand. This move was led by high-ranking authorities, including the Police Major General Chirawat Payungtham and Police Major General Wiwat Kamchamnan, all under the guidance of Police General Kittirat Phanphet. This arrest is part of an initiative dubbed 'Operation You’ll Know Soon' with a mission to curtail crimes that are having a profound impact on the public. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343568-thai-influencer-held-in-online-gambling-crackdown/

Yesterday, an online influencer named Sek Atsada - but better known by his screen name "Tee Oros" - found himself facing arrest in Thailand. This move was led by high-ranking authorities, including the Police Major General Chirawat Payungtham and Police Major General Wiwat Kamchamnan, all under the guidance of Police General Kittirat Phanphet. This arrest is part of an initiative dubbed 'Operation You’ll Know Soon' with a mission to curtail crimes that are having a profound impact on the public. Sek, who has enjoyed significant influence online, appears to have taken a wrong turn by using his influence for illicit purposes. He had purportedly been promoting a gambling site through personal posts on his Facebook profile. By posting links to a popular gambling site, he had been drawing in members of the public and, disconcertingly, enticing vulnerable young people into gambling. Upon being taken into custody, Sek confessed to promoting the gambling site via direct advertising. For his promotional activities, he was apparently paid a hefty fee of 30,000 baht. "The actions of influencers like Tee Oros set a poor example," General Chirawat noted in a statement. "Leading many, especially young people, astray." This case casts a spotlight on a broader effort currently underway by the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD). The TCSD's aim is to tackle online criminals who wield significant societal influence; in particular, they’re targeting influencers and YouTubers. Such individuals are capable of steering public opinion and behaviour, which can create harmful societal impacts. The arrest of Sek forms part of a greater strategy to clamp down on online gambling. The police force is working hard to dismantle the networks – often operating via social media and online platforms – that entrap unsuspecting surfers into the world of gambling. This is vital work, as emphasised by General Chirawat: "We're committed to protecting the public from the harms of online gambling and making sure those exploiting their influence for illegal gains face justice." The charges laid on Sek include organising and advertising gambling as well as indirectly encouraging participation in gambling. The police are continuing their investigations and are committed to taking further actions against everyone involved in these networks. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-14

Illegal Tour Guides Nabbed at Temple of Emerald Buddha as Thai Police Clamp Down File photo for reference only Emerald Buddha’s sacred sanctuary in Bangkok turned into a site of controversy yesterday, as Thai Tourist Police arrested two Chinese nationals working unlawfully as tour guides. The two women, identified as 42-year-old Ji Xianlan and 32-year-old Na Xulan, were caught assisting tourists outside Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, flagrantly flaunting Thailand's stringent tourism regulations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343566-illegal-tour-guides-nabbed-at-temple-of-emerald-buddha-as-thai-police-clamp-down/

Emerald Buddha’s sacred sanctuary in Bangkok turned into a site of controversy yesterday, as Thai Tourist Police arrested two Chinese nationals working unlawfully as tour guides. The two women, identified as 42-year-old Ji Xianlan and 32-year-old Na Xulan, were caught assisting tourists outside Wat Phra Kaew, or the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, flagrantly flaunting Thailand's stringent tourism regulations. Believed to be working under a 'Sitting Guide' from a travel agency, the women were detained whilst escorting travellers within the temple's premises. The 'Sitting Guide' system, though a legal position in Thailand, often exploits linguistic loopholes for illegal benefits. State-licensed tour guides hire foreign nationals to help tourists who struggle with the Thai language—a practice prohibited by law. Although the two Chinese women found themselves at the mercy of the law, the case of the sitting guide was conspicuously absent from the police report released on Channel 3. Charged under Section 86 of the Tourist Business and Guide Act, Ji Xianlan and Na Xulan face potential sentences of up to one year in prison, fines reaching up to 100,000 Thai baht, or even both. The indefatigable police pursuit reflects a concerted drive to root out all exploitative activities sullying Thailand’s lauded travel industry's appearance. Authorities have shifted their policing focus to monitoring the bustling tourist hubs in the capital city, resulting in the exposure of several unauthorised foreign guides. This wave of law enforcement has ensnared several illegal tour operators. Just in September, Thai police detained an Indonesian guide illegally offering travel packages to 133 compatriots. As the country battles the taint on its tourism industry, stricter scrutiny and enforcement actions are anticipated to be the new order of the day. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-14

UNESCO names Suvarnabhumi one of the world's six most beautiful airports File photo for reference only Thai architecture is making global headlines as Suvarnabhumi International Airport secures a spot on UNESCO's list of the six most beautiful airports worldwide for 2024. The interest in Suvarnabhumi doesn't stop there, with the exquisite SAT-1 terminal earning a nomination for the sought-after Prix Versailles Award for the world's most stunning airport design. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343565-unesco-names-suvarnabhumi-one-of-the-worlds-six-most-beautiful-airports/

Thai architecture is making global headlines as Suvarnabhumi International Airport secures a spot on UNESCO's list of the six most beautiful airports worldwide for 2024. The interest in Suvarnabhumi doesn't stop there, with the exquisite SAT-1 terminal earning a nomination for the sought-after Prix Versailles Award for the world's most stunning airport design. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport of Thailand, Suriya Juangroongruangkit, expressed enthusiastic pride in the recognition. Under the savvy steerage of the Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT), Suvarnabhumi Airport has earned laudable international attention. SAT-1, the architectural masterwork, is a breathtakingly expansive four-storey terminal with two basement tiers, stretching an incredible 216,000 square metres. Earning its nomination, SAT-1 wields a balance of modern design and traditional Thai identity, all within a framework built for sustainability. Inside, the third floor boasts a captivating elephant sculpture, embracing departing passengers alongside a curated garden populated with mythical Thai creatures – Kinnara, Kinnari, and Hongsa. Arriving passengers are not without their share of charm, welcomed by a mobile garden comprising traditional Thai arts, puppetry and Khon masks. The Thai flavour stretches even to the building ends, hosting Buddha statues Suwannabupbok and Ratanabupbok, emulating their counterparts at Wat Pha Sorn Kaew, symbolising prosperity. Even the restroom interiors captivate the eye, adorned with arts and motifs embodying Thailand's four regions, equipped with water-conserving utilities. Nominated along with world-class contenders, including Terminal E at Logan, USA; Terminal 2 at Changi, Singapore; Zayed, UAE; Felipe Ángeles, Mexico; and Kansas City, USA, Suvarnabhumi's prestige is irrefutable. As the expectant world awaits the Prix Versailles results this December, it is undeniable that Suvarnabhumi Airport has set the loftiest bar in airport design. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-14

Amulets save teenagers’ lives in Phatthalung shooting Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Five teenagers narrowly escaped a terrifying encounter when four men on motorcycles pursued and fired shots at them. Despite the attack, the injuries sustained by two young women, sitting on the back of the motorbike, were minor, attributed to the protection of sacred amulets they wore. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343563-amulets-save-teenagers’-lives-in-phatthalung-shooting/

Five teenagers narrowly escaped a terrifying encounter when four men on motorcycles pursued and fired shots at them. Despite the attack, the injuries sustained by two young women, sitting on the back of the motorbike, were minor, attributed to the protection of sacred amulets they wore. The incident unfolded yesterday at approximately 10.30pm yesterday, November 13, in the Na Noth area, located in the Mueang district of Phatthalung province. Local police received a distress call reporting a shooting with injuries, prompting them to rush to the scene alongside the Na Noth municipal rescue team. The confrontation occurred in front of a tyre repair shop, where police officers found two injured women. Identified as 18 year old Phornchanok and Benjawan, also 18, both sustained bruises and minor wounds from the gunfire. Phornchanok suffered a deeper wound on her heel, with a bullet lodged inside, necessitating urgent medical attention at Phatthalung Hospital. “It’s miraculous and unbelievable that despite being fired at with a shotgun, the injuries were only superficial.” Phornchanok’s boyfriend, 18 year old Thanabat, explained that he, along with his girlfriend, his brother, and two friends, had left their home in Ban Khai Thai, Mueang district, to celebrate a friend’s birthday in Ban Lameng, Khlong Chaloem subdistrict, Kong Ra district. As they approached the crime scene, two motorcycles, each carrying two men, approached them with headlights dimmed. While pausing on the roadside to consult a GPS for directions, the two motorcycles, which had previously passed them, returned and opened fire, discharging two shots. The bullets struck Phornchanok and Benjawan, who were riding pillion. In a panic, the group fled the scene, covering a distance of 4 kilometres to seek help from locals. Upon arrival at the hospital, doctors provided immediate care, confirming that the gunshot wounds were largely superficial bruises. Benjawan sustained a minor heel injury, which was not life-threatening. Both Phornchanok and Benjawan attribute their miraculous escape to the protective power of sacred objects they carried. Phornchanok wore a talisman from Wat Chedi Ai Khai in Nakhon Si Thammarat, while Benjawan had an old 10-satang coin tied to her wrist. Their belief in these amulets’ protective properties is strong, leading them to feel that they have been shielded from greater harm. The police are actively investigating the incident, working to identify and apprehend the four individuals involved in the attack. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and officers are urging anyone with information to come forward to aid in the investigation, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-14

Fare play: Pattaya police spark taxi reminder ahead of fireworks fest Photo courtesy of Pattaya News Pattaya police have issued a reminder to motorbike taxi drivers regarding fare regulations as the city prepares for the upcoming International Fireworks Festival. The festival is set to take place on November 29 and 30, promising a spectacle that draws large crowds to the coastal city. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343562-fare-play-pattaya-police-spark-taxi-reminder-ahead-of-fireworks-fest/

Pattaya police have issued a reminder to motorbike taxi drivers regarding fare regulations as the city prepares for the upcoming International Fireworks Festival. The festival is set to take place on November 29 and 30, promising a spectacle that draws large crowds to the coastal city. In a meeting held on Tuesday, November 12, at the Caesar Palace Hotel, the Chief of Pattaya Police Station, Navin Teerawit, addressed motorbike taxi operators about the anticipated surge in visitor numbers and the need for fair pricing practices. Representatives from various motorbike taxi groups across Pattaya were in attendance, highlighting the importance of this gathering. The festival will see road closures and parking restrictions. Pattaya Beach Road, a key location for the festival’s events, will be closed from the Dolphin Roundabout to the Wat Chaimongkol Intersection. Additionally, Pattaya Central Road, from Tops Supermarket to the Nipa Lodge Intersection, will also be inaccessible from 3pm to 12am. To further manage the expected influx of tourists, parking along Pattaya Beach Road will be prohibited from 5am to 12am. “We have called upon the motorbike taxi drivers to discuss the transportation arrangements during the festival. They must adhere to the designated passenger pick-up points and refrain from overcharging passengers.” The preparations and reminders come as a proactive measure to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for both locals and visitors during the festival. With the promise of dazzling fireworks lighting up the Pattaya skyline, local police aim to maintain order and fairness in the city’s transportation services, reported Pattaya News. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-14

Bangkok teen arrested for blackmailing 21 girls into explicit videos Photo via KhaoSod Police yesterday arrested an 18 year old Thai man at his home in Bangkok for tricking at least 21 young girls into sending him explicit videos and blackmailing them. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343561-bangkok-teen-arrested-for-blackmailing-21-girls-into-explicit-videos/