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In a groundbreaking move, National Police Chief Kittharath Punpetch is leading an initiative to bridge the gap between the Royal Thai Police (RTP) and the public by creating police influencers. Launched on 11th November, the initiative aims to directly connect with communities and become a primary resource for crime prevention and assistance against online threats. Kittharath's vision is to recast public perception of the police by making RTP influencers accessible channels for help, particularly in an era where online criminal activities are evolving quickly. This strategy seeks to ensure victims of crimes reach out to the police prioritally rather than seeking alternative sources. The initiative is incorporated within the broader Cyber Booster project and sees collaboration between the Thai Media Fund, RTP, Online News Producers Association, and Thai PBS. This partnership is committed to producing media content that strengthens public resilience against cyber threats. The launch event witnessed participation from significant police figures like Teeradej Thumsutee, Pakrit Krittayapong, Pitchpong Somkul, and Pichayakorn Sukthawee—all aligned in enhancing public awareness and improving police-public relations via RTP’s Khakinang TV channel. A noteworthy element of the project is the creation of 17 video clips featuring emerging officers as online idols to inform the public about cyber perils. Officers like Thanyapirasit Julpipop, Nonthapat Intrarasuran, and Kansini Sitthichotpong, also known as Lt. Panda, are involved in the project’s outreach mission. Lt. Panda shared her optimism towards the project’s potential, highlighting its primary focus on educating the public against online scams rather than merely improving the police image. She affirmed that proactive prevention would run alongside traditional crime-fighting efforts. By leveraging diverse skills within the police, including communication prowess, the project exemplifies a noteworthy shift towards adaptive law enforcement in cybercrime's digital age. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-11

Thailand Overhauls Auto Tax to Boost Electric Vehicle Adoption File photo for reference only Thailand is set to revamp its automotive excise tax structure to accelerate the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), aligning with global trends. Announced by Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul, the move aims to balance the country's interests in both battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343243-thailand-overhauls-auto-tax-to-boost-electric-vehicle-adoption/

Thailand is set to revamp its automotive excise tax structure to accelerate the shift towards electric vehicles (EVs), aligning with global trends. Announced by Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul, the move aims to balance the country's interests in both battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). As competition between BEVs and PHEVs intensifies, Paopoom highlights the need for a balanced tax system that allows Thailand to remain competitive, irrespective of which technology dominates globally. "A tax that focuses solely on EVs might not be the solution," he asserts, emphasising adaptability in their approach. While moving away from internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles aligns with global efforts, the Deputy Minister advises against sudden tax changes that could destabilise Thailand’s economy and job market due to existing ICE production lines and supply chains. In a strategic bid to establish Thailand as a Southeast Asian hub for EV and electric motorcycle production, the Cabinet approved a proposal in February 2022 to revise the automotive tax framework. Currently, ICE vehicles are taxed based on carbon emissions, with rates ranging from 20% to 35% depending on emission levels. From 2026 to 2030, the new structure will incentivise low-emission vehicles, with gradual tax increases on HEVs and PHEVs, while BEVs have benefited from a 2% rate since 2022. The revised taxes reflect Thailand's commitment to staying ahead in automotive innovations and mitigating environmental impacts. Overall, this change marks a significant step in Thailand's journey towards fostering a more sustainable automotive industry while maintaining economic stability. File photo for reference only -- 2024-11-11

Drunken Thai boxer takes page from Tyson’s ear-book Picture courtesy of ThaiRath In an incident eerily reminiscent of Mike Tyson’s infamous clash with Evander Holyfield, a drunken Thai boxer left a man earless after a savage encounter in Chiang Mai. The attack has prompted pleas for justice from the victim’s distraught girlfriend. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343242-drunken-thai-boxer-takes-page-from-tyson’s-ear-book/

In an incident eerily reminiscent of Mike Tyson’s infamous clash with Evander Holyfield, a drunken Thai boxer left a man earless after a savage encounter in Chiang Mai. The attack has prompted pleas for justice from the victim’s distraught girlfriend. In a startling revelation, Duean, a 25 year old from Lampang Province, recounted the gruesome details to reporters. Her boyfriend, an unsuspecting target, was ambushed and horrifically bitten by the inebriated fighter. The assault took place on the evening of November 4, at a dormitory in the Pa Daed subdistrict of Mueang district. According to Duean, her boyfriend had just returned home to freshen up before heading to work when the assailant struck. Without provocation, the so-called boxer, who was boozing in front of the dormitory, launched a brutal punch. Although her boyfriend valiantly defended himself, the encounter took a chilling turn when the assailant, having wrestled him to the ground, bit off his right ear. In a grotesque twist, the boxer spat out the ear before attacking again, this time likely swallowing the severed piece, as it could not be found. The attacker fled the scene, leaving the victim in agony. Desperate for justice, Ms Duean has urged the Thai police to hunt down the rogue boxer and hold him accountable. “We will pursue this matter to the end because we have done nothing wrong.” The case is drawing attention, recalling memories of the notorious Tyson-Holyfield showdown, while spotlighting the pressing need for action against such violent outbursts. The clash between Tyson and Holyfield, billed as The Sound and the Fury and afterwards infamously referred to as The Bite Fight, took place on June 28, 1997, for the WBA Heavyweight Championship. It achieved notoriety as one of the most bizarre fights in boxing history after Tyson bit off a part of Holyfield’s ear. Tyson was disqualified from the match and lost his boxing license, though it was later reinstated. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of ThaiRath Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-11

The White Lotus blooms with Lisa BLACKPINK’s acting debut in Thailand - video Picture courtesy of Max The much anticipated third series of The White Lotus unveiled another teaser revealing Thailand’s favourite K-pop singer Lisa Monobal in her first acting role. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343241-the-white-lotus-blooms-with-lisa-blackpink’s-acting-debut-in-thailand-video/

The much anticipated third series of The White Lotus unveiled another teaser revealing Thailand’s favourite K-pop singer Lisa Monobal in her first acting role. Yesterday, November 10, the series producer, Max, swished aside the curtain on Blackpink’s Lalisa as she stepped into the role of Thidapon Sornsin, a charming hospitality host who greets with a quintessentially Thai welcome: “Welcome to The White Lotus in Thailand, ka.” The 27 year old rapper and singer, born Pranpriya in Buriram, is half-Thai and half-Swiss, with her formative years spent in Thailand before breaking ground as YG Entertainment’s first non-Korean trainee. Lisa, boasting a staggering 104 million Instagram followers, sent her fanbase into a frenzy by sharing the show’s teaser, cheekily captioned: “Looking forward to 2025!” In a nod to the series’ roots, her character seems to welcome back spa manager Belinda Lindsey, played by Natasha Rothwell, from the critically acclaimed first season. The teaser also offers glimpses of Emmy-nominated actors Walton Goggins and Parker Posey, all set to portray guests at The White Lotus in Thailand, with filming taking place at the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui. Meanwhile, quick shots show Carrie Coon, Leslie Bibb, and Michelle Monaghan revelling in colourful street attire as they enjoy their opulent getaway. Series three promises an ensemble cast including Jason Isaacs, Patrick Schwarzenegger, Scott Glenn, Sam Nivola, Nicholas Duvernay, and Tayme Thapthimthong. Although plot details remain under wraps, characters will span a patriarch, a corporate exec, an actress, several mothers, a misfit, and a yogi, according to Deadline. In an “Unpacking Season 2” video from 2022, the show’s creator teased: “The first season kind of highlighted money, and then the second season is sex. For the third season, we’re diving into a satirical and funny take on death, eastern religion, and spirituality.” This season promises a “rich tapestry” of storytelling, with a supersized and more elaborate offering. The 54 year old Emmy winner Mike White shared more news on the series. “It’s going to be a supersized White Lotus. Longer, bigger, crazier. I don’t know what people will think, but I am super excited, so at least for my own barometer, that’s a good thing.” With anticipation mounting, fans are eager to see how Lisa Manobal and the ensemble cast will bring this new chapter of The White Lotus to life. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Max Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-11

Mother of Thai woman murdered in UAE pleads for help to bring daughter home Picture courtesy of KhaoSod The mother of a Thai woman stabbed to death by her United Arab Emirates (UAE) husband of only three months reached out to the president of the Paveena Hongsakul Foundation for Children and Women to help bring her daughter’s body back to her hometown in Thailand for religious rites. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343240-mother-of-thai-woman-murdered-in-uae-pleads-for-help-to-bring-daughter-home/

The mother of a Thai woman stabbed to death by her United Arab Emirates (UAE) husband of only three months reached out to the president of the Paveena Hongsakul Foundation for Children and Women to help bring her daughter’s body back to her hometown in Thailand for religious rites. In an emotional plea, 50 year old Mrs Prayoon and her 35 year old elder daughter, Chantima, travelled from Buriram province to the capital to enlist the aid of the Paveena Hongsakul Foundation for Children and Women. The mother’s 24 year old daughter, Isaratri, was brutally stabbed to death by her husband of three months, Peter, a 43 year old former police officer from the UAE. The horrific incident occurred on November 3 in Dubai, after Isaratri had filed a domestic abuse complaint against him. According to Chantima, her sister initially moved to Dubai to work as a Thai masseuse, where she met and married Peter on August 2, in Buriram. But the fairytale quickly turned into a nightmare. Upon returning to the UAE in early October, the marriage soured, with Peter becoming violent. Fleeing the abuse, Isaratri found refuge with a cousin, Suthida, who also worked in Dubai. The escalating threats and assaults culminated in that fateful evening on November 3. Isaratri was on her way to meet her lawyer, in preparation for a court appearance the following day when her husband intercepted her at her condo. Luring her to speak in his car, he viciously attacked and stabbed her, ending her life. Dubai police swiftly apprehended Peter, and the Thai woman’s remains are slated for an autopsy. However, the grieving family is determined to bring Isaratri back to Thailand for proper religious rites. Mrs Paveena Hongsakul, president of the foundation, expressed her profound condolences. “The family has lost its main pillar. It’s truly heart-wrenching.” Paveena pledged support, coordinating with the Department of Consular Affairs and the Division of Protection and Welfare of Thais Abroad. Mr. Ekkapab Hongsakul, Director of the Paveena Foundation, is aiding the family with the bureaucratic maze. Financial constraints loom large, with the impoverished family unable to afford the repatriation costs. In a heartfelt appeal, they call upon Thai communities in Dubai to assist in fundraising efforts, exemplifying the enduring kindness among Thai people worldwide. KhaoSod reported plans are already in motion to ensure a seamless return. Once arrangements are finalised, Paveena will liaise with Suvarnabhumi International Airport officials to receive Isaratri’s body and transport her back to her hometown in Buriram for the ceremonial rites. In a world often marred by unfathomable loss, this heartbreaking saga underscores the power of community and compassion, rallying to aid those in need far from home. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-11

Thai man leaves apology note & cash after laundrette knicker theft Picture courtesy of Amarin News A Thai man with a woman’s underwear fetish got his knickers in a twist after stealing a G-string from a local launderette in Pattaya. Overcome with guilt, the remorseful knicker thief penned a heartfelt apology and left cash compensation for the startled owner. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343235-thai-man-leaves-apology-note-cash-after-laundrette-knicker-theft/

A Thai man with a woman’s underwear fetish got his knickers in a twist after stealing a G-string from a local launderette in Pattaya. Overcome with guilt, the remorseful knicker thief penned a heartfelt apology and left cash compensation for the startled owner. Kai, the 42 year old owner of the automatic laundry shop, marched into Pattaya City Police Station, at precisely 3.06am, today, November, to file a complaint with Police Lieutenant Colonel Saijai Khamjunla after discovering the theft of a female customer’s undergarment in Soi Panyat Chang 8, Nongprue subdistrict. Equipped with CCTV footage capturing the peculiar pilfering, Kai shared the evidence and urged local media to spread the word as a cautionary tale. She recounted how the drama began when a smartly dressed man rolled up in a car, strolled into the shop, rifled through a basket, and slipped the nicked knickers into his pocket. The unnamed thief nearly got away with it until Kai’s daughter confronted him. He coolly claimed he was collecting his clothes, and at first, she suspected nothing. But the plot thickened around midnight when the same man returned, this time bearing a white envelope containing 1,000 baht and the stolen underwear. Inside was a confessional note. “From what I did today, it made me feel very stressed, very bad about what I did and caused trouble to others. I apologise to the shop and the owner of the clothes for what happened. “I would like to compensate for the damages as a punishment for myself so that I will learn my lesson. Please forgive me and do not press charges against me. I will remember this as a lesson and will not do it again.” Despite feeling rattled, Kai handed over the CCTV footage, meticulously logging the incident with the police for posterity. The saga of the repentant panty snatcher serves as a curious reminder to think twice before giving in to such peculiar impulses or fetishes. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Amarin News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-11

Thai woman and boyfriend suspected in murder of Pathum Thani official Photo via ThaiRath Police suspect a Thai woman and her boyfriend in the murder of the woman’s older sister, who was a sub-district secretary in the central province of Pathum Thani. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343234-thai-woman-and-boyfriend-suspected-in-murder-of-pathum-thani-official/

Police suspect a Thai woman and her boyfriend in the murder of the woman’s older sister, who was a sub-district secretary in the central province of Pathum Thani. The 57 year old deputy secretary of the Khlong Sam Sub-district Office, Worrakanok Thepphimon, was found dead in her home on Saturday, November 9. She had a deep cut wound to her neck and more than 10 stab wounds across her body. Her legs and arms were tied with a towel and a white tank top. Officers found hair left at the scene and conducted DNA tests on it to identify the suspects involved. The first person to find Worrakanok’s body was her younger sister, 51 year old Bongkot Kaewklom. Bongkot told police that she heard her sister scream loudly twice, so she rushed to check on her. Unfortunately, her sister died before her arrival. Worrakanok’s son insisted that the shirt found at the scene did not belong to his mother. He added that his mother was a good person and had never engaged in conflict with anyone. He suspected certain family members of the murder but did not have evidence and expressed his fear of speaking out. Officers at Khlong Luang Police Station investigated the house but found no traces of a struggle or theft. Worrakanok’s gold Buddhist amulet, mobile phone, and other valuables were left untouched. Police also suspect Worrakanok’s family members of the murder, as the suspects seemed to know her work schedule well and were able to enter her home easily without forcing entry. More than 10 people were questioned, and the most suspicious individuals were identified as Bongkot and her boyfriend, whose name remains undisclosed. The two reportedly denied the accusation but gave confused and suspicious answers to the police. Officers searched the couple’s home and seized five knives belonging to the man for further investigation. The test results are expected to be released today, November 11. The motive for the murder remains unsolved, but police believe it may be related to an internal family conflict. Officers promised to resolve the case as soon as possible. By Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-11

Bangkok to bang-bang: Thai tourist shot in escort row in India Picture of injured Thai woman courtesy of India Today A Thai tourist found herself in the crosshairs of danger after a heated dispute over escort services spiralled out of control, leading to her being shot in the historic city of Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. The altercation erupted at a local hotel, ultimately escalating into violence, on Saturday, November 9. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343233-bangkok-to-bang-bang-thai-tourist-shot-in-escort-row-in-india/

A Thai tourist found herself in the crosshairs of danger after a heated dispute over escort services spiralled out of control, leading to her being shot in the historic city of Udaipur, Rajasthan, India. The altercation erupted at a local hotel, ultimately escalating into violence, on Saturday, November 9. The scene unfolded when four men left the woman, identified as Thogkhot Thanchanok, at the emergency entrance of Pacific Hospital before making a hasty getaway. CCTV footage chillingly captured the moment the suspects wheeled her in on a stretcher before vanishing into the night. Police have named the suspects as Rahul Gurjar, Dhruv Suwalka, Akshay, and one other individual, and a case has been lodged under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), said Superintendent of Police Yogesh Goyal. “The woman was involved in escort services, and the shooting occurred after a disagreement in the hotel room.” Despite suffering gunshot wounds to her chest and back, Thanchanok’s condition is now stable following surgery to remove a bullet lodged in her ribs. She had arrived in India two months prior with a friend, staying at Hotel Veer Palace near the Udai Pol area since October 21. On the night of the incident, she reportedly left her hotel alone around 1.30am. NewsBytes reported that police are scrutinising CCTV footage from the hotel and surrounding areas to uncover further details. Both Thanchanok and her friend are being questioned by local police as part of the ongoing investigation. Additionally, the cab driver who ferried her to the hotel has been interviewed, said Superintendent Goyal, as the hunt intensifies to bring the perpetrators of this brazen attack to justice. “The woman has told us she is a Thai national visiting Udaipur on a tourist visa.” By Bob Scott Picture of injured Thai woman courtesy of India Today Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-11

No time to lose: Mexican tourist returns pricey watch after Bangkok airport mix-up Photo via SiamRath A Mexican woman on holiday with her family in Phuket agreed to return a luxury watch worth about 200,000 baht to a Thai woman, stating that she thought it belonged to a family member and mistakenly took it from Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343232-no-time-to-lose-mexican-tourist-returns-pricey-watch-after-bangkok-airport-mix-up/

A Mexican woman on holiday with her family in Phuket agreed to return a luxury watch worth about 200,000 baht to a Thai woman, stating that she thought it belonged to a family member and mistakenly took it from Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok. A 21 year old Thai woman, Rachawalee, filed a complaint with Don Mueang Police Station on Thursday, November 7, reporting that she lost her Rolex Oyster Perpetual watch at the airport on Wednesday, November 6. She believed she had taken it off at the X-ray scanning counter and forgotten it there. Rachawalee explained that she visited the airport to travel to Chiang Mai but booked an urgent flight back to Bangkok the following day to search for her watch. Police requested to check the security camera footage at the X-ray scanning area and identified a foreign woman, travelling with two family members, as the suspect. The family reportedly took a flight from Bangkok to Phuket. Officers later identified the family as Mexican nationals who had checked into a hotel in the Kathu district of Phuket. Police visited the hotel and met the woman in question, 39 year old Leslie, who admitted to taking the watch. Leslie explained that she took the watch, believing it belonged to a family member. She expressed her willingness to return the watch to its rightful owner. No legal charges were issued against her or her family. Rachawalee visited the police station yesterday, November 10, to retrieve her luxury watch and expressed her gratitude to the officers, saying she didn’t expect to recover the valuable item. According to Rachawalee, the monetary value of the watch does not matter to her, but its sentimental value does. She said her mother had given her the watch, and she wanted to keep it forever. She was very pleased to have it back. In a similar story, a Laotian man in Chon Buri province returned a gold necklace to a Thai woman, explaining that he had taken it home, mistakenly thinking it was a gift from the gold shop. The Laotian man insisted that he had visited the shop on the same day as the Thai woman to buy a gold necklace and a Buddhist amulet. Her gold necklace was in a package, so he did not realise it was not his and took it home. By Petch Petpailin Photo via SiamRath Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-11

Chinese call centre scam leader surrenders after 7 months in hiding Photo via Facebook/ เจาะลึกทั่วไทย Inside Thailand A leading Chinese member of a call centre scam gang in the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat surrendered to Thai police after seven months in hiding. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343231-chinese-call-centre-scam-leader-surrenders-after-7-months-in-hiding/

A leading Chinese member of a call centre scam gang in the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat surrendered to Thai police after seven months in hiding. The 33 year old Chinese man, Jiang Zhaitian, reached out to the Thai police via his lawyer, expressing his intent to turn himself in. Jiang was subsequently taken to the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) in Bangkok yesterday, November 10. Jiang was the subject of an arrest warrant following the raid of four call centre scam bases in Nakhon Si Thammarat on March 29. The scam gang, operated by a Chinese national, targeted victims from Thailand, Russia, Japan, and China. During the raid, police arrested 90 call centre scammers and seized evidence including 192 computers, 854 mobile phones and SIM cards, 22 routers, and 342 bank accounts. The scam headquarters were located on land owned by a 51 year old Thai woman named Raewadee Theeppaiboon, who was a deputy mayor of the Chandi sub-district in the province at that time. Raewadee was also charged with accepting financial benefits (rental fees) from the criminal operation. Further investigation revealed that the gang’s leader, Jiang, managed to evade arrest. Jiang was responsible for transporting each scammer from their accommodation to the office for work. He successfully avoided capture and remained in hiding for over seven months before surrendering. Jiang faces four charges, including: Section 211 of the Criminal Law: participating in a secret society or criminal association. Section 342 of the Criminal Law: committing fraud by impersonating another person. Section 14 of the Computer Act: importing false information into a computer system to cause harm to an individual or the public. Section 5 of the Prevention and Suppression of Participation in a Transnational Criminal Organisation: being a member of a transnational criminal organisation. The penalty issued against Jiang will be discussed during a court session. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เจาะลึกทั่วไทย Inside Thailand Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-11

Thai businesses urged to monitor US trade policy under Trump Image: AP Photo/David Goldman The Thai Wholesale and Retail Trade Association advises local businesses to closely watch global trade dynamics and the international economy in light of Donald Trump’s recent return to the White House. This call to attention comes amid concerns about potential shifts in US trade policy that could have far-reaching impacts. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343230-thai-businesses-urged-to-monitor-us-trade-policy-under-trump/

The Thai Wholesale and Retail Trade Association advises local businesses to closely watch global trade dynamics and the international economy in light of Donald Trump’s recent return to the White House. This call to attention comes amid concerns about potential shifts in US trade policy that could have far-reaching impacts. Somchai Pornrattanacharoen, serving as an honorary advisor to the association, reassured that Thailand’s trade policies remain harmonious with the US despite the country’s existing trade surplus with America. Trump has made headlines with his commitment to significantly hike tariffs on imports, proposing increases of up to 60% on Chinese goods and 20% on products from other nations. He went as far as to suggest a 200% levy on certain imported vehicles. The association maintains a positive outlook, stating that Thailand’s wholesale and retail exports are unlikely to be impacted by these protectionist strategies. Currently, the main exports to the US are cars, auto parts, and agricultural products, rather than retail and wholesale goods. In 2023, the United States ranked as Thailand’s second-largest trading partner, following China, with bilateral trade valued at US$68.3 billion (approximately 2.3 trillion baht). Thailand holds a trade surplus of US$29.4 billion with the United States, necessitating the need for a watchful eye over the trade policy between the US and other countries, remarked Somchai. He urged the Thai government to stay alert to the evolving trade policies under the new US administration, particularly concerning American investments and potential shifts in production locations. Somchai anticipates that US manufacturers of consumer goods, who have already established operations in Thailand, may opt to retain their production due to the region’s competitive labour costs. He further suggested that should the US impose trade barriers on any nation, the Thai government must determine if brands from those countries have set up manufacturing bases in Thailand, as this could lead to increased scrutiny of Thai exports by the US. To strengthen Thailand’s economic position, Somchai encouraged the government to attract more foreign investment, recommending a review of current investment incentives. He pointed out the strategic geographic benefits of using Thailand as a production hub. “The investment must benefit Thailand, such as transfer of skills and know-how to Thai workers.” He concluded that the Thai government should carefully evaluate the trade policies of its partners to identify mutually advantageous solutions, while still ensuring that Thailand’s interests remain a priority, reported Bangkok Post. By Ryan Turner Image: AP Photo/David Goldman Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-11

Canna-bust: British student’s drug-filled dreams go up in smoke Picture courtesy of info.gov.hk A British student’s high-flying ambitions came crashing down when his ill-fated bid to smuggle a suitcase brimming with cannabis from Thailand was thwarted. The desperate act was all in the name of funding his university education, a courtroom in Austria heard. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343229-canna-bust-british-student’s-drug-filled-dreams-go-up-in-smoke/

A British student’s high-flying ambitions came crashing down when his ill-fated bid to smuggle a suitcase brimming with cannabis from Thailand was thwarted. The desperate act was all in the name of funding his university education, a courtroom in Austria heard. The 29 year old mature student, travelling with his 24 year old girlfriend, was nabbed during a layover in Vienna, en route to Amsterdam, carrying an astonishing 33 kilogrammes of cannabis. The haul, valued at nearly £350,000 (14.7 million baht), was uncovered by a sharp-eyed customs officer, prosecutors revealed to Korneuburg Regional Court. In a tearful confession, the student, whose identity remains under wraps, claimed the lure of 10,000 euros (380,000 baht) for the drug run came from a mysterious pub acquaintance in London. “I wanted to use this money for my tuition fees.” The National World reported that the courtroom was thick with emotion as the pair, who had funded their flights, were faced with the grim prospect of up to 15 years behind bars. Dominik Wild, representing the girlfriend, insisted to the court that they weren’t your typical drug traffickers. The couple sat hand in hand, while the student’s lawyer, Alexander Prenner, painted a picture of dire financial straits, saying his university education could rack up costs of 100,000 euros (3.8 million baht). “Young people are being shamelessly exploited.” In an unexpected twist of leniency, judges opted for compassion despite the substantial drug stash. The student, detained since July, received a 30-month sentence but will only serve six months. With time served, he might be home for Christmas cheer. The presiding judge underscored the principle of “general prevention,” saying: “That’s why the defendant is not going home today. There are enough people who are in need and who do not commit criminal acts.” As for the girlfriend, she walked away with just a one-year suspended sentence. In a poignant gesture, judges granted the couple an extra two minutes to share a farewell before the student was led to the cells. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of info.gov.hk Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-11

Bangkok Bank backs bold India expansion for Thai businesses Photo courtesy of The Nation Thai businesses have their sights set on India’s booming market, and Bangkok Bank is rolling out the red carpet to support this promising venture. With an eye on India’s rapid economic growth and vast population, the bank’s president, Chartsiri Sophonpanich, calls it “a golden opportunity” for Thai entrepreneurs eager to expand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343025-bangkok-bank-backs-bold-india-expansion-for-thai-businesses/

Thai businesses have their sights set on India’s booming market, and Bangkok Bank is rolling out the red carpet to support this promising venture. With an eye on India’s rapid economic growth and vast population, the bank’s president, Chartsiri Sophonpanich, calls it “a golden opportunity” for Thai entrepreneurs eager to expand. India’s economy is powering ahead at an annual growth rate of 6 to 7%, and Bangkok Bank sees this as a gateway for Thai businesses to thrive. “Over the past few years, and likely for the next five to 10, India will remain a prime market for Thai businesses to trade and invest.” The bank aims to provide essential services like consulting, risk management, and trade finance, offering Thai companies a comprehensive toolkit to navigate India’s market challenges and opportunities. “We are committed to being a ‘thought partner’ that helps Thai businesses adapt and grow strongly and sustainably.” India’s ambassador to Thailand, Nagesh Singh, addressed hesitations some investors might have, noting that investors’ understanding of India may still be inaccurate. He highlighted India’s strong fundamentals, positioning it as one of the five countries that will drive the global economy. Singh also pointed to India’s rich resources, technological advancements, and competitive costs, calling India “a rising star” in the region. Thailand’s ambassador to India, Pattarat Hongtong, echoed the sentiment, stressing the long-standing ties between the two nations. She highlighted key sectors ripe for Thai investment: food and beverage, automotive, and tourism. “Thai products and investments are still in demand from India, with many opportunities to expand the market.” Bangkok Bank is committed to bolstering Thai businesses, guiding them to make the most of India’s vibrant market through well-informed decisions, strategic planning, and a robust support system, reported The Nation. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-08