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In a bid to stabilise electricity prices amid rising energy costs, the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is refurbishing two vital coal-fired power units in Lampang. This comes as part of EGAT's strategy to extend the lifespan of Units 8 and 9, each generating 320 megawatts, crucial for reducing Thailand's dependence on pricey imported liquefied natural gas (LNG). The initiative aims to keep electricity affordable by opting for coal, a cheaper resource compared to imported LNG, which now makes up a significant portion of Thailand’s power production fuels. EGAT's maintenance approach seeks to enhance the efficiency of these units without a full overhaul, aligning with plans to manage power tariffs and associated electricity costs. A feasibility study, scheduled for completion by 2025, will assess necessary refurbishments and financial implications. This study is vital as previous attempts to upgrade these ageing units stumbled due to poor interest in the high-cost bidding process. Furthermore, in support of Thailand's 2024 power development plan, which prioritises decreased fossil fuel usage and increased renewable energy adoption, EGAT is also moving forward with a project to build a 700MW gas-fired plant. This new facility is expected to be operational by 2027, complementing efforts to diversify the energy mix and ensure a reliable supply. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-12

Thailand's Pet Food Exports Soar 31%, Raking 80 Billion Baht File photo for reference only Thailand's pet food exports have surged by approximately 31% in the first nine months of the year, generating around 80 billion baht, according to the Commerce Ministry’s Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO). The demand for premium dog and cat food drove this growth, with these segments contributing a striking 71 billion baht, marking a 39% increase from last year. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343355-thailands-pet-food-exports-soar-31-raking-80-billion-baht/

Thailand's pet food exports have surged by approximately 31% in the first nine months of the year, generating around 80 billion baht, according to the Commerce Ministry’s Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO). The demand for premium dog and cat food drove this growth, with these segments contributing a striking 71 billion baht, marking a 39% increase from last year. "The pet food sector has experienced significant growth, especially in dog and cat food exports," stated TPSO Director General Poonpong Naiyanapakorn. While canine and feline food sales flourished, other pet food products saw a slight decline, down by 8%, totalling about 9 billion baht. Thailand's pet food success is spreading globally, with key markets including the United States, Japan, Italy, Australia, and the Philippines. In 2022, Thailand was the fourth-largest pet food exporter, claiming an 8% share of the global market, surpassing nations like the UK and India but trailing behind leaders Germany, the US, and France. The global pet care market, which encompasses food, products, and services, reached a substantial value of US$280 billion (9.5 trillion baht) in 2022. Analysts predict an annual growth rate of 7%, with the sector expected to reach US$550 billion (18.7 trillion baht) by 2032. This growth reflects a shift in pet ownership attitudes, with animals increasingly viewed as family members, driving businesses to capitalise on this evolving dynamic. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-12

Elephant rampage at charity event in Bueng Kan kills woman Picture courtesy of Dailynews An elephant at a charity event in Bueng Kan went on a rampage, causing the tragic death of one woman and leaving a man severely injured. The incident, which took place yesterday, November 11, led to chaos as attendees fled in panic. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343354-elephant-rampage-at-charity-event-in-bueng-kan-kills-woman/

An elephant at a charity event in Bueng Kan went on a rampage, causing the tragic death of one woman and leaving a man severely injured. The incident, which took place yesterday, November 11, led to chaos as attendees fled in panic. A social media post detailed the unfortunate sequence of events during the traditional Kathin festival procession. An elephant part of the parade became aggressive and attacked participants. Two women sitting on the elephant’s howdah fell, suffering injuries. One of the women, later identified as 47 year old Priyawarn Karakulpoonperm, was rushed to Pak Khat Hospital but sadly succumbed to her injuries. Another individual, 61 year old Somporn Baumano, was also critically injured after being pushed by the elephant into a parked motorcycle. This incident prompted an investigation led by Jirayu Duangkaew, deputy investigator at Pak Khat Police Station. Following a report from the police communication centre about the fatal attack, he informed Siwat Vorakuttanon, the station’s superintendent, and proceeded to the scene. The tragic event unfolded at the rear of Suthiwanaram Temple in Huai Kan Lueng Noi village, Pak Khat district, Bueng Kan province. Emergency response teams, including rescue units from the local administration and Sawang Siwilai at the Pak Khat point, transported the injured to medical facilities. Despite efforts, Priyawarn could not be saved. Her body presented multiple injuries, and the postmortem examination confirmed the severity of her wounds. Elephant rampage Eyewitnesses recounted the procession, which started from the temple’s main entrance, attracting approximately 8,000 participants, including several elephants. Festivities included music and dance, with people offering bananas and sugarcane to the elephants. However, one smaller elephant showed signs of irritation, possibly exacerbated by the heat and teasing from attendees who pulled back sugarcane after offering it. The elephant’s erratic behaviour led it to shake its head violently, causing panic as it ran amok. The mahout’s inability to control the animal resulted in chaos, with people scrambling for safety. Some attempted to manage the situation by pulling the elephant’s tail or using cloths to cover its eyes. Unfortunately, Priyawarn fell directly in front of the elephant and was further attacked. The animal kneeled and pushed her with its head, resembling a motion to stab with its tusk. Fortunately, two other elephants were guided by their mahouts to intervene, preventing further assault. Despite their efforts, Priyawarn’s injuries proved fatal, reported KhaoSod. Police are now gathering evidence and testimonies to pursue legal action in response to the incident. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Dailynews Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-12

Fake monk returns to Bangkok to beg day after losing robes - video Photo courtesy of The Nation Just one day after being unmasked as a fake monk, a 65 year old man from Saraburi, Central Thailand, was spotted back on the streets of Bangkok, resuming his act as a disabled beggar—but this time without his monk’s robes. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343353-fake-monk-returns-to-bangkok-to-beg-day-after-losing-robes-video/

Just one day after being unmasked as a fake monk, a 65 year old man from Saraburi, Central Thailand, was spotted back on the streets of Bangkok, resuming his act as a disabled beggar—but this time without his monk’s robes. Last weekend, netizens sparked an outcry when they spotted the fake monk begging in the Phaya Thai district, using crutches and pretending to be disabled. Outraged by the impropriety, social media users demanded action, prompting police to step in. Officers quickly identified the imposter as Nipon, a former monk who had recently turned to begging under the guise of a Buddhist holy man. Last Sunday, November 10, Nipon was taken to Monks Hospital, where he was disrobed for breaking monastic law and was fined 100 baht for begging, a direct violation of Buddhist principles. However, in a twist that stunned many, a TikTok clip surfaced yesterday, showing a familiar figure—this time dressed in white—receiving donations on the street. The video, posted by user @zhetols, was captioned: “Today, he wears white. Now that he has been disrobed, he can do the same job. #fakemonk #monkpretendingdisabled.” With his monastic disguise stripped away, Nipon’s latest act sees him returning to the streets, unfazed by the scandal that exposed him. While some Bangkok residents remain shocked by his brazenness, others worry about the potential damage to the public’s trust in genuine Buddhist monks, reported The Nation. This incident has also reignited debates on stricter regulation and enforcement to curb impersonation and exploitation of public sympathy. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-12

UPDATE: Thai woman’s daring car cling ends in roadside heartbreak - video Photo via Channel 7 A Thai woman desperately tried to stop her husband from fleeing with his mistress by clinging onto his car, only to be savagely attacked and left abandoned by him on a roadside in Phatthalung, a southern province. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343173-woman-clings-to-husbands-car-in-furious-confrontation-over-alleged-affair/?do=findComment&comment=19376593

Hawk theft stumps owner as police stall over 10,000 baht fee Picture courtesy of Siamrath A young entrepreneur is grappling with a distressing theft involving a prized Harris’s hawk, valued at nearly 200,000 baht (US$5,765), allegedly stolen by an employee. Three months on, the case remains unresolved despite clear evidence and a reported demand for a 10,000 baht (US$290) fuel fee by police for assistance in the investigation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343351-hawk-theft-stumps-owner-as-police-stall-over-10000-baht-fee/

A young entrepreneur is grappling with a distressing theft involving a prized Harris’s hawk, valued at nearly 200,000 baht (US$5,765), allegedly stolen by an employee. Three months on, the case remains unresolved despite clear evidence and a reported demand for a 10,000 baht (US$290) fuel fee by police for assistance in the investigation. The incident unfolded when a 25 year old man, referred to as A, and his girlfriend sought legal advice from Kiattikun Tonyang, a notable lawyer and member of the People’s Party in Nonthaburi after a 45 year old employee allegedly took the hawk and handed it over to an acquaintance. A video confession from the employee admitting to the theft has been presented, yet progress in the case has stalled. A, the founder of a company that uses hawks to deter pigeons in factories, was informed by his hawk handler on August 4 that the hawk had gone missing from the secure premises where it was kept. Surveillance footage revealed the employee leaving the area around 5am. Subsequently, a colleague in the hawk community sent A a photograph of someone attempting to sell a hawk without proper documentation or leg bands. Recognising his missing hawk, A compiled evidence and filed a report with the Nakhon Luang Police Station in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya on August 6. Despite repeated follow-ups, the police investigation has stagnated. A claims that the investigating officers cited a lack of budget for fuel expenses to pursue the case and requested 10,000 baht as a fuel fee, which A reluctantly provided in hopes of retrieving the hawk. However, no further action has been taken, leaving A waiting in vain for three months. The employee confessed to stealing the hawk but denied selling it, claiming no profit was made. The trail led to the person who received the hawk, and a conversation was recorded, where the recipient claimed to have passed the hawk on to someone else and had since lost contact. They suggested that buying back the hawk might be necessary. Despite submitting this audio evidence to the police, no charges have been filed. Hawk theft A and his girlfriend have a deep emotional bond with the hawk, having purchased it as a chick for 70,000 baht (US$2,020) and trained it to perform, generating an income of approximately 100,000 baht (US$2,880) per month. The hawk’s absence has not only resulted in a loss of income but also left an emotional void. A’s girlfriend, particularly attached to the hawk named Fighter, has been tirelessly searching for it, driving from Nakhon Pathom to Ayutthaya. She has pleaded with officials to expedite the case against the perpetrator and has offered a reward of 100,000 baht for the hawk’s safe return, reported KhaoSod. Kiattikun remarked on the sufficiency of evidence to issue a summons for the suspect under charges of employee theft, which carries a potential maximum penalty of five years imprisonment and a fine of up to 100,000 baht. Regarding the allegation of the police demanding money for fuel, the lawyer expressed scepticism and urged the provincial police commander in Ayutthaya to examine the case’s progress at the local station. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Siamrath Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-12

Minister defends ‘controversial’ land title decision in Buriram Photo courtesy of The Nation Deputy Interior Minister Songsak Thongsri recently stepped into the spotlight by defending a contentious decision made by a land committee regarding land title documents for plots in Buriram’s Khao Kradong area. This decision comes despite a 2021 Supreme Court ruling that the land is owned by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343348-minister-defends-‘controversial’-land-title-decision-in-buriram/

Deputy Interior Minister Songsak Thongsri recently stepped into the spotlight by defending a contentious decision made by a land committee regarding land title documents for plots in Buriram’s Khao Kradong area. This decision comes despite a 2021 Supreme Court ruling that the land is owned by the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). The crux of the issue lies in the 5,083-rai expanse in the Khao Kradong area of Mueang district. The SRT is currently embroiled in a legal battle to reclaim this land, accusing the Department of Land of misconduct for issuing land title documents to individuals who allegedly occupied the land unlawfully. In a previous ruling, the Central Administrative Court sided with the SRT, directing the land department to collaborate with the rail agency for a detailed examination of the boundaries in Khao Kradong. To address the ongoing dispute, the land department established a committee under Section 61 of the Land Code to review the matter. Last week, it was disclosed that this land committee unanimously decided against revoking the land documents, a decision that the Department of Land’s director-general has since acknowledged. The decision has sparked widespread criticism and raised questions regarding the authority of an administrative order in potentially overriding a Supreme Court ruling. Minister Songsak, associated with the Bhumjaithai Party, clarified his stance yesterday, November 11, asserting that he remains neutral in the matter. He suggested that there are undisclosed details that both the public and the SRT might not be aware of. “The Supreme Court’s ruling needs thorough examination to ascertain its applicability, whether it pertains to all or just those directly involved in the land dispute.” Songsak affirmed that the SRT still has the option to contest the Department of Land’s decision. However, he noted that the SRT currently lacks the persuasive evidence required to sway the land committee into revoking the contentious land titles. He also addressed concerns regarding potential biases within the committee, particularly allegations linking some members to an influential figure in Buriram. Songsak reassured that the committee was appointed following regulations and would be held accountable if found violating any laws. Reports have highlighted that among the land documents under scrutiny, 12 title deeds covering 179 rai are allegedly linked to the Chidchob family. This influential political clan has established various enterprises on the land, including the Buriram International Circuit and a substantial 32,600-seat football stadium. Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong weighed in on the matter, expressing scepticism about the land committee’s decision superseding the Supreme Court’s ruling. He emphasised the need for the SRT to pursue further legal actions. The committee’s decision was influenced by a map presented to the Supreme Court by the SRT, which was crafted in 1996 in accordance with a resolution by the provincial committee on land encroachment. This map was intended to address issues raised by the Assembly of the Poor, reported Bangkok Post. “The map differs from the one attached to a royal decree issued in 1921 concerning the purchase of land for the northeastern rail system.” As a result, the committee resolved not to retract the land title issued by the land department. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-12

Ice blunder: Re-used animal feed bags spark mass diarrhoea outbreak in Rayong schools Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Shocking revelations have emerged from Rayong province, where a gastrointestinal nightmare unfolded, infecting over 1,400 teachers and students with diarrhoea. The culprit? Ice packed in re-used animal feed bags, a blunder that’s left local government officials scrambling to contain the chaos. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343258-ice-blunder-re-used-animal-feed-bags-spark-mass-diarrhoea-outbreak-in-rayong-schools/

Shocking revelations have emerged from Rayong province, where a gastrointestinal nightmare unfolded, infecting over 1,400 teachers and students with diarrhoea. The culprit? Ice packed in re-used animal feed bags, a blunder that’s left local government officials scrambling to contain the chaos. Today, November 11, Dr Sopon Iamsirithaworn, Inspector-General of the Ministry of Public Health, Health Region 6, revealed the grim findings after an investigation into the sudden diarrhoea outbreak that struck two schools in Klaeng district since November 5. A staggering 1,436 individuals reported symptoms, including 1,418 students, an infection rate of 31.1%, and 18 teachers and staff members, at 9.8%. The norovirus, a notorious gut-wrenching virus, was cited as the prime cause. The investigation kicked off when a primary school student sought medical attention at a private hospital on November 6. Subsequent tests revealed Norovirus genogroup II in multiple samples. Meanwhile, traces of Enteropathogenic E.coli (EPEC) were detected in a secondary school student and Enteroaggregative E.coli (EAEC) in a food preparer at an elementary school. KhaoSod reported that Dr Sopon emphasised that contaminated “water and ice” consumed during recent school sports events were key risk factors. The water supply system in question, reliant on surface water, tested below standard chlorine levels, exacerbating the outbreak. In a startling twist, further inspections of the offending ice factory unveiled concerning practices. Despite a valid operating licence and adherence to some procedures, it emerged that the ice was transported using plastic-lined trucks and packed in washed, reused animal feed bags—a veritable recipe for disaster. Dr Sopon outlined a raft of emergency measures to quash the spread: 1. Chlorinating drinking and utility water tanks in the affected schools. 2. Collaborating with Muang Klaeng Subdistrict Municipality to enhance the quality of school water supplies. 3. Ordering the temporary cessation of ice sales from the implicated factory and improving sanitation standards on-site. 4. Educating ice factory workers and small retailers on hygiene, especially when handling crushed ice. 5. Instructing schools to halt the use of crushed ice for consumption. 6. Heightened vigilance and disease prevention protocols across all schools to thwart future outbreaks caused by contaminated food and water. Dr Sopon’s no-nonsense approach aims to restore safety and regain trust, ensuring this frosty fiasco remains a one-off. As Rayong schools battle back from this health crisis, parents and staff alike demand accountability and lasting change. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-11

Wee problem: Passenger takes pee on Bangkok bike ride, refuses to pay fare Photo via Facebook/ อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 6 A Thai app-based motorcycle rider took to social media to expose the shocking behaviour of a passenger who urinated during a ride in Bangkok and refused to pay the fare. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343256-wee-problem-passenger-takes-pee-on-bangkok-bike-ride-refuses-to-pay-fare/

A Thai app-based motorcycle rider took to social media to expose the shocking behaviour of a passenger who urinated during a ride in Bangkok and refused to pay the fare. The 32 year old app-based rider, Korn, shared a video of his passenger on a Facebook news page to warn other motorcycle taxi riders to avoid offering service to this woman. The page posted the video on November 10, with a caption reading: “If you need to urinate, you must tell the rider. You can do it. But why would you pee on the rider? Whether it’s a mental or physical issue, you should wear a diaper.” In the video, the rider was heard complaining to the woman about urinating on his motorcycle and demanding she pay the fare of 87 baht. He also asked the passenger to clean the seat, stating that his trousers were wet with her urine. The passenger appeared to be a transwoman but the gender was not confirmed in the report. She wore a mini dress and carried a black shoulder bag. She initially ignored the rider’s demand for payment and instead called her father, asking him to find another motorcycle for her. Before the rider left the scene, the passenger dared him to file a legal complaint against her, insisting she would not pay the fare or clean the vehicle. Korn later gave an interview to Channel 7, saying the incident occurred at around 4am, yesterday, November 10. He picked her up outside Benchamabophit Dusitvanaram Temple, also known as the Marble Temple, with a destination in the Taling Chan neighbourhood of Bangkok. Korn noticed white powder on the woman’s nose but ignored it and proceeded with the ride. She repeatedly leaned her face against his back and later urinated on the seat about 2 kilometres before reaching the destination. Korn realised his trousers were wet and stopped to check, noticing her odd behaviour. He admitted he was very angry but managed to keep his composure to avoid harming her. Korn stated he would not take legal action against the passenger but urged passengers to inform riders if they need to use a bathroom, as such incidents waste riders’ time and cost them income. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 6 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-11

Dugong dilemma: Thailand’s gentle sea giants face extinction risk Picture courtesy of Thailand Travel Map Thailand’s beloved dugongs are in dire straits, prompting an urgent meeting by the National Policy and Planning Committee on Marine and Coastal Resources Management. Led by Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong, the focus was squarely on the alarming rise in dugong deaths in recent weeks. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343255-dugong-dilemma-thailand’s-gentle-sea-giants-face-extinction-risk/

Thailand’s beloved dugongs are in dire straits, prompting an urgent meeting by the National Policy and Planning Committee on Marine and Coastal Resources Management. Led by Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong, the focus was squarely on the alarming rise in dugong deaths in recent weeks. With representatives from the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry, and the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources in attendance, the committee zeroed in on immediate actions. High on the agenda were accelerated surveys of dugong populations and seagrass habitats along the Andaman coast, amid concerns over deteriorating seagrass and its impact on the ecosystem. Recent reports paint a grim picture: between October 1 and November 5, ten dugongs have perished across Thailand: three each in Satun, Phuket, and Trang, with another in Krabi. The culprits? Malnutrition, starvation, and entanglement in fishing nets: symptoms of their desperate struggle for sustenance in the Andaman Sea, as marine experts point out. Deputy PM Prasert revealed a worrying decline in the dugong population, dwindling from 280 last year to a mere 267 this year. Department chief Pinsak Surasawadi highlighted the depletion of 24,149 rai of seagrass beds in Krabi, Trang, and Satun, vital habitats and food sources for these gentle creatures. In response to this crisis, dugongs have been migrating to Phuket and Phang Nga in search of new feeding grounds. In the battle to save them, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Chaloemchai Sri-on has called for a robust dugong protection plan. Bangkok Post reported that measures include training courses in basic dugong rescue for local communities, equipping villagers with resources for stranded animals, and leveraging oceanographic models to pinpoint danger zones for dugongs, establishing recovery ponds to curb species loss. Innovatively, the department is experimenting with feeding dugongs alternative food sources that mimic seagrass chemistry, such as morning glory and seaweed. A pilot project at Phuket’s Rawai Beach saw the voracious sea mammals devouring all the vegetables placed for them, offering a glimmer of hope. Despite this promising development, Mr Pinsak stresses these substitutes are mere supplements, underscoring the crucial need for seagrass bed restoration. As Thailand rallies to protect its iconic sea mammals, the nation faces a race against time and tide to ensure these gentle giants don’t vanish from their centuries-old habitat. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Thailand Travel Map Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-11

Fake News Debunked: Koh Kut Tensions with Cambodia Falsified File photo for reference only The Thai government has swiftly debunked rumours of military clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces on Koh Kut. Despite alarmist reports, authorities assure that the island remains a vibrant tourist destination, unaffected by misinformation. Jirayu Houngsub, adviser to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, confirms visitor growth is robust, surpassing previous years. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343254-fake-news-debunked-koh-kut-tensions-with-cambodia-falsified/

The Thai government has swiftly debunked rumours of military clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces on Koh Kut. Despite alarmist reports, authorities assure that the island remains a vibrant tourist destination, unaffected by misinformation. Jirayu Houngsub, adviser to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, confirms visitor growth is robust, surpassing previous years. The rumours coincided with renewed talks on the contentious 2001 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Cambodia, concerning oil and gas development in the Gulf of Thailand. Critics argue this agreement might cede Thai territory, fuelling misinformation. Addressing allegations, Jirayu clarified no military build-up or Cambodian troop presence on Koh Kut, refuting any evacuation narratives. “Koh Kut continues to welcome tourists abundantly. Reports of a security crisis are untrue," he asserted. Efforts are underway to curb the spread of false information online, invoking the Computer Crime Act. Claims of widespread hotel booking cancellations are dismissed as data from the Trat Tourism Authority illustrate solid occupancy rates around 75%, even anticipating a 1% growth in tourist numbers. Supporting these reassurances, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul plans a visit to Koh Kut, underscoring the Thai government’s commitment to maintaining peace and promoting tourism. This follows Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai’s affirmation of Thailand's sovereignty over the island, amidst discussions about revisiting the 2001 MoU. Through campaigns and official visits, the government aims to ensure clarity, reaffirming that Koh Kut remains a peaceful and thriving destination contrary to circulating falsehoods. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-11

Inmate Murder at Bangkok Prison Sparks Security Concerns - video File photo for reference only A harrowing incident unfolded at Bangkok's Minburi Remand Prison, where six inmates brutally assaulted and fatally stabbed a fellow prisoner, Yutthakarn, using improvised weapons fashioned from prison materials. This grisly attack has raised serious questions about security measures within the facility. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343252-inmate-murder-at-bangkok-prison-sparks-security-concerns-video/

A harrowing incident unfolded at Bangkok's Minburi Remand Prison, where six inmates brutally assaulted and fatally stabbed a fellow prisoner, Yutthakarn, using improvised weapons fashioned from prison materials. This grisly attack has raised serious questions about security measures within the facility. The attack took place near the prison's welfare shop in the fifth control area. Yutthakarn, imprisoned for assault and methamphetamine possession, was left gravely injured with multiple stab wounds. Despite being rushed to the prison's medical unit, he succumbed to his injuries. The assailants, identified as Narong, Panupong, Choktawee, Chatchai, Weerayuth, and Watcharapong, all have prior convictions ranging from drug offences to theft. With three fabricated weapons seized at the scene, their actions have exposed lapses in the prison's security, as these items were hidden from guards. CCTV footage revealed the attackers retreating post-stabbing, yet they were swiftly contained within the restricted prison area. An internal conflict among rival drug gangs, Ban Nong Chok and Ban Romklao, was cited as the motive. The attackers' ties to Ban Romklao and previous feuds with the victim's gang, Ban Nong Chok, led to this fatal confrontation. In response to this violent episode, the Department of Corrections is not only escalating charges against the six inmates but also launching an investigation into the prison's oversight. Efforts will focus on uncovering concealed weapons and evaluating the role of guards in potentially allowing such violent acts to occur. The tragedy underscores an urgent need for enhanced security protocols to prevent a recurrence of such violent events within prison walls. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-11

Thai Fortune Teller Arrested for Massive Fraud in Pathum Thani File photo for reference only In a dramatic turn of events, Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) officers have apprehended Thanawan "Odd" Jiracharoenwet, a well-known fortune teller, at his residence in Pathum Thani, near Bangkok. This arrest follows allegations of fraud, with damages surpassing 100 million baht. Thanawan, aged 43, faced accusations from 67 victims who claimed losses of sacred items and rituals promised but not delivered. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343251-thai-fortune-teller-arrested-for-massive-fraud-in-pathum-thani/

In a dramatic turn of events, Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) officers have apprehended Thanawan "Odd" Jiracharoenwet, a well-known fortune teller, at his residence in Pathum Thani, near Bangkok. This arrest follows allegations of fraud, with damages surpassing 100 million baht. Thanawan, aged 43, faced accusations from 67 victims who claimed losses of sacred items and rituals promised but not delivered. The saga began when a 77-year-old client and her daughter exposed Thanawan's deceit, stating they lost over 66 million baht together. They described buying sacred objects under the fortune teller's guidance, only to receive nothing in return. As confidence in his mystical powers crumbled, more victims emerged, echoing similar tales of trust broken by empty promises. While Thanawan appeared on Channel 3, pledging to compensate those affected and asserting his innocence, rumours of a planned escape to China emerged. These were dispelled as police arrested him today, confirming his presence within the country. During a search of his property, authorities seized two cars, including a rented luxury Lamborghini, which Thanawan allegedly used to project an image of wealth and credibility. He reportedly admitted to squandering most ill-gotten gains on gambling. Facing charges of fraud and money laundering, Thanawan could see penalties of up to a decade in prison and hefty fines. The legal repercussions underscore a stark reversal for a man who once wielded influence through purported spiritual guidance, now unravelled by allegations of deceit and luxury-fuelled excess. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-11

Phuket Airport Surges as Expansion Plans Unveiled for 2026 File photo for reference only Phuket Airport is experiencing a bustling high season, with passenger numbers soaring to 30,000 daily, complemented by over 300 flights taking off each day. This surge highlights the increasing demand for travel to this popular Thai holiday destination, as international tourism bounces back. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343250-phuket-airport-surges-as-expansion-plans-unveiled-for-2026/