snoop1130

In a dramatic turn of events, an alleged drug trafficking operation was disrupted in the early hours today when a pickup truck, loaded with over 1.6 million methamphetamine pills, crashed in Lopburi province following a tyre burst. This incident has sparked a substantial manhunt as the suspects vanished into a nearby cornfield. The commotion unfolded around 2.45am on Road No. 3333 in the Phatthana Nikhom district. The suspended vehicle, an Isuzu D-Max bearing a false Saraburi licence plate, was found wedged in a drainage ditch, its horn wailing incessantly until silenced by a local volunteer, Chaiwat Kuntolthong. The scene presented a striking sight with the truck’s front end heavily damaged and a troubling emptiness where its driver once sat. Upon thorough inspection, authorities uncovered eight sacks filled with methamphetamine pills, cloaked under a canvas in the truck bed and passenger compartment. It's believed the truck was part of a larger narcotics operation, transporting drugs from northern regions, covertly bypassing major thoroughfares under the cover of night. The abandoned mobile phone inside the vehicle has become a focal point of investigation. Additionally, a mismatch in the truck’s licence plate led police to identify the registered owner in Phitsanulok, from whom they plan to obtain more information. Superintendent Chaiyachai Nathanakarn indicated the street value of these pills surpasses 10 million baht (approximately £249,000), underlining the operation's scale. The police are pressing on, mobilising a forensic team to gather fingerprints and ascertain more details about this massive drug haul. While the escapees remain at large, this bust sheds light on seasoned traffickers' reliance on rural routes to elude law enforcement. As breakthroughs continue, authorities remain determined to dismantle this criminal network and bring its operators to justice. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-29

Thai Police Seize Over 2 Million Meth Pills in Sedan Bust File photo for reference only Thai police in Wang Noi, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, made headlines with the arrest of a significant drug trafficker, unearthing over 2 million methamphetamine pills from a heavily loaded sedan. Governor Niwat Rungsakorn, alongside senior police officials, announced the successful operation that took place on Sunday, October 27, marking a major victory in the fight against drug trafficking. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342040-thai-police-seize-over-2-million-meth-pills-in-sedan-bust/

Thai police in Wang Noi, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, made headlines with the arrest of a significant drug trafficker, unearthing over 2 million methamphetamine pills from a heavily loaded sedan. Governor Niwat Rungsakorn, alongside senior police officials, announced the successful operation that took place on Sunday, October 27, marking a major victory in the fight against drug trafficking. Keen-eyed officers at a checkpoint on Canal 1 in the Wang Noi district noticed the suspiciously weighty white Toyota sedan. Upon inspection, they discovered five sacks filled with an astonishing 2,046,000 meth pills inside the boot. The driver, identified as Krisana, braved the checkpoint with a massive drug haul, which Governor Niwat highlighted as an audacious move. The seizure underscores a concerning new tactic among traffickers: using sedans for drug transportation, a move to dodge police scrutiny that typically employs pickup trucks for larger loads. Pol. Maj. Gen. Chotiwat Luengwilai acknowledged the evolving strategies of smugglers, emphasizing the need for broader investigative efforts. He praised the Wang Noi police's vigilance and revealed plans to target the entire network behind this massive drug consignment, which had roots in the northeastern provinces and was bound for Bangkok. The operation is part of a strategic push to dismantle drug networks and improve crime-prevention methods, with authorities committed to bringing all involved to justice. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-29

Parliament to Debate Key Charter Amendments in December Session File photo for reference only Parliament is set to tackle significant charter amendments during its December session, as announced by House Speaker Wan Muhammad Noor Matha. The decision comes after an accord between government factions and Senate leaders to defer discussions on the 2017 constitution revisions, previously constrained by time in the current session ending on 30 October. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342039-parliament-to-debate-key-charter-amendments-in-december-session/

Parliament is set to tackle significant charter amendments during its December session, as announced by House Speaker Wan Muhammad Noor Matha. The decision comes after an accord between government factions and Senate leaders to defer discussions on the 2017 constitution revisions, previously constrained by time in the current session ending on 30 October. Key debates are slated for 15-16 December. Wan revealed the possibility of a special parliamentary session, particularly for pressing bills. A focal point is the potential amendment of Section 256, integral for establishing a charter drafting body, which requires a public referendum for approval. People’s Party MP Parit Wacharasindhu stirred debate, proposing a reduction in referendums from three to two to expedite proceedings. This suggestion emerges amidst disagreements over referendum majority thresholds between the House and Senate. Currently, the House favours a simple majority, unlike the Senate, which demands over 50% voter turnout plus a majority vote. A joint committee aims to resolve these differences, looking to proceed with the referendum in February. Parit's advocated two-round referendum could streamline the process and adhere to the Constitutional Court ruling. The proposal includes an initial vote on drafting a new charter and a subsequent vote on amending Section 256 to facilitate this. A final vote on the new constitution's adoption would follow after its drafting. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-29

Disabled Thai woman robbed, physical assaulted and dumped in Pattaya Photo via Naewna A disabled Thai woman sought help from officers at Mueang Pattaya Police Station yesterday after her dishonest girlfriend, in collusion with her boyfriend, allegedly robbed, physically assaulted, and abandoned her in Pattaya. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342038-disabled-thai-woman-robbed-physical-assaulted-and-dumped-in-pattaya/

A disabled Thai woman sought help from officers at Mueang Pattaya Police Station yesterday after her dishonest girlfriend, in collusion with her boyfriend, allegedly robbed, physically assaulted, and abandoned her in Pattaya. The 33 year old victim, Chutiphat “Air” Noo-krod, arrived at the police station last night, October 28, to file a complaint against her girlfriend, Nam. However, officers faced difficulties questioning Air due to her speech and hearing impairment and were only able to gather a few details after three hours of conversation. Air’s mother and friends later arrived at the police station from the central province of Kanchanaburi. They were relieved to be reunited with Air, who had been missing from her home in Kanchanaburi since Saturday, October 26. Air reportedly bore wounds and bruises across her body. Her mother, 56 year old Krachan, told police that she lost contact with her daughter but initially believed Air was just being sarcastic or angry and would reach out later. Air previously threatened to commit suicide but abandoned her plans after Krachan transferred money to her. When Air failed to contact her as expected, Krachan reached out to Air’s friends but none had seen her. Air’s friends and her mother searched for her until they were contacted by the police, who informed them that Air was in Pattaya. Love scam Air eventually provided a full account to the police with the help of a friend acting as an interpreter. She explained that she was in a relationship with Nam for three months before discovering that Nam had a boyfriend and stayed with her just for money. On the day of the incident, October 26, Nam and her boyfriend allegedly demanded money from Air and brutally assaulted her. Air was forced to sell her motorcycle for 30,500 baht and hand the money over to the couple. The suspects also stole 10,000 baht in cash that she received through the Digital Wallet scheme. After physically assaulting her, the couple abandoned Air on Pattaya Beach. Without her mobile phone or any personal documents, so she sought help from police officers. Air’s friend disclosed that they witnessed Nam and her boyfriend assaulting Air in Kanchanaburi but did not dare intervene. However, they managed to record a video of the incident before the couple took Air away. In the video, Nam’s boyfriend was seen wearing a black vest marked with the word “Police” on the back. Officers at Mueang Pattaya Police Station reported that they successfully identified Nam and her boyfriend. The man was a member of a rescue team in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok, not the police officer as his vest suggested. Officers are continuing their investigation to bring the two suspects to justice. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai), or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress, or depression. Seek help. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Naewna Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-29

Unsolved mystery: Thai police dig into Canadian man’s death Picture courtesy of Phuket Francophone Thai police are digging deep into the puzzling death of a 46 year old Canadian man discovered by a group of his friends after five days of silence. The alarm was raised in a quiet corner of Moo 8, Srisoontorn, alerting Thalang police officers to the scene at around 12.35pm, yesterday, October 28. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342037-unsolved-mystery-thai-police-dig-into-canadian-man’s-death/

Thai police are digging deep into the puzzling death of a 46 year old Canadian man discovered by a group of his friends after five days of silence. The alarm was raised in a quiet corner of Moo 8, Srisoontorn, alerting Thalang police officers to the scene at around 12.35pm, yesterday, October 28. The man’s body was found peacefully in bed, with rescuers from the Kusoldharm Foundation confirming there were no signs of a struggle or break-in. Friends reportedly made desperate attempts to reach him for days, receiving no response. Worried sick, they finally knocked on his door, only to stumble upon the tragic discovery, prompting them to alert the authorities without delay, reported Phuket News. Enter the detectives: a forensic specialist from Vachira Phuket Hospital and experts from the Phuket Province Forensic Science team were called in to piece together the heartbreaking puzzle. Meanwhile, the Canadian Embassy has been brought into the loop to deliver the devastating news to the man’s family. As the investigation forges ahead, questions about what led to his untimely demise continue to swirl. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Phuket Francophone Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-29

Sisters survive 10-metre fall after motorcycle crash in Phuket Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Two sisters narrowly escaped death when their motorcycle, with faulty brakes, lost control and crashed into a roadside barrier, causing them to fall into a 10-metre-deep ravine. The incident occurred on a steep road in Patong, Phuket. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342036-sisters-survive-10-metre-fall-after-motorcycle-crash-in-phuket/

Two sisters narrowly escaped death when their motorcycle, with faulty brakes, lost control and crashed into a roadside barrier, causing them to fall into a 10-metre-deep ravine. The incident occurred on a steep road in Patong, Phuket. At approximately 5.40pm yesterday, October 28, Police Lieutenant Pongpipat Kumchumpoo of the Patong Police Station received a report of a motorcycle accident on Muen Ngoen Road, Patong subdistrict, Kathu district. The report indicated that two individuals had fallen into a 10-metre-deep ravine after their motorcycle collided with a concrete barrier. The local police, along with the Kusoldharm Phuket Foundation rescue team, promptly arrived at the scene. The accident site was identified as a steep road with a slope extending over 50 metres. Upon inspection, police found a blue Honda motorbike with the licence plate ขทท 842 Phuket. Preliminary checks revealed that the motorcycle’s brakes were malfunctioning. The vehicle had visible marks from the collision with the concrete barrier. The two injured sisters, identified as Pathumkesorn and Pratumporn, had fallen into the ravine. The rescue team used ropes to descend and successfully brought them back to safety. Pathumkasorn sustained a broken leg, while Pratumporn suffered minor abrasions. Both were transported to Patong Hospital for further treatment. Investigations revealed that the sisters were on their way to inspect a rental property within the steep road’s vicinity. After viewing the property, Pathumkasorn drove the motorcycle downhill, reported KhaoSod. Unfamiliar with the route and hampered by the faulty brakes, she lost control of the vehicle. The motorcycle swerved into the concrete barrier, causing both sisters to be thrown over the edge and into the ravine, which measured between 5 and 10 metres deep. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-29

2 Thai teens surrender after brutal attack on homeless man in Isaan - video Photo via Facebook/ ข่าวปากช่องนิวส์ Two of the three Thai teenagers involved in the brutal attack on a homeless man in the Isaan province of Nakhon Ratchasima surrendered to the police yesterday. They claimed that another friend ordered them to commit the crime. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342035-2-thai-teens-surrender-after-brutal-attack-on-homeless-man-in-isaan-video/

Two of the three Thai teenagers involved in the brutal attack on a homeless man in the Isaan province of Nakhon Ratchasima surrendered to the police yesterday. They claimed that another friend ordered them to commit the crime. Locals in the Pak Chong district of Nakhon Ratchasima, along with rescuers from the Sawang Dhammastan Foundation, rushed the homeless man, 60 year old Kriangsak, to Pak Chong Nana Hospital on Sunday, October 27. He suffered severe injuries to his head and ribcage and bore bruises across his body. Kriangsak told locals and rescuers that two teenagers asked him for 60 baht in cash but when he could not provide it, they beat him up on two occasions on October 25 and 27. People in the area checked the security cameras and found three teenage boys involved in the brutal attack. The footage showed Kriangsak sleeping on the ground when three teenagers approached him. The attackers hit him with sticks and repeatedly kicked him. After the incident attracted the attention of locals and netizens, the two attackers, 13 year old Kong and 14 year old Bom, turned themselves in at Pak Chong Police Station yesterday, October 28. Kong and Bom told police that they were threatened by an unidentified person who said that he would beat them up in the same manner they had attacked the homeless man. Frightened, they decided to surrender themselves to the police. Suspect still at large The teenage suspects claimed that another friend, who was the leader of their group, ordered them to attack the homeless man. They attempted to contact the friend to accompany them to the police station but he did not answer their calls. Channel 7 reported that these two teenagers had been arrested for theft previously. Some netizens pointed out that the clothes they wore on the day of the incident were similar to those worn by the suspects in a previous crime. The police will conduct further investigations into these suspicions and will issue additional charges if the teenagers are found guilty. Concerning the third teenager who remains at large, the police plan to issue a summons initially. Should he fail to present himself at the police station, an arrest warrant will follow. In a recent update on Kriangsak’s condition, it was reported that the homeless man required four stitches for a head wound. Additionally, he suffered broken ribs and an air leak in his right lung. This incident is disturbingly similar to a tragic case from January this year, when five teenagers, aged between 13 and 16, fatally attacked a 47 year old homeless woman, Buaphan “Kob” Tansu, in the Isaan province of Sa Kaeo. The police faced criticism for initially arresting the wrong person, accusing Buaphan’s husband, Panya Kongsaendam, of the murder. Panya claimed that officers had tortured him into confessing to the crime, despite his innocence. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ข่าวปากช่องนิวส์ Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-29

Academy lecturer removed after lawsuit against Big Joke’s wife Photo via Hone Keasae There are no updates regarding the theft lawsuit filed by a police officer’s wife against the wife of former police chief Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, but the complainant is now facing multiple criminal accusations and has just been dismissed as a lecturer at the Royal Police Cadet Academy (RPCA). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342034-academy-lecturer-removed-after-lawsuit-against-big-joke’s-wife/

There are no updates regarding the theft lawsuit filed by a police officer’s wife against the wife of former police chief Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, but the complainant is now facing multiple criminal accusations and has just been dismissed as a lecturer at the Royal Police Cadet Academy (RPCA). The 50 year old RPCA lecturer, Thanattha Yodyiam, accused Big Joke’s wife, Sirinatda Hakparn, of stealing gold accessories worth about 5.7 million baht and having an affair with her police officer husband. Sirinatda visited Phra Kanong Police Station on October 24 to deny all the allegations. Moreover, Sirinatda reportedly filed a counter-accusation against Thanattha, claiming she illegally wore a police uniform. Sirinatda emphasised that Thanattha was only a lecturer, not a police officer, and thus had no authority to wear the uniform. Thanattha appeared on Channel 3’s news programme, Hone Krasae, to present her side of the story regarding both the theft and the alleged affair. Following the interview, allegations surfaced online accusing Thanattha herself of committing fraud and stealing a car from her former business partner. On October 28, Thanattha appeared on Hone Krasae once again to defend herself. She began by explaining that she indeed wore the police uniform but only for an event-themed “dream job.” She asserted that she had never worn the uniform again or used it to deceive anyone. Thanattha further explained that the event took place while she was pursuing her master’s degree and presented additional photographs of the occasion to the public. Car theft accusation Regarding the theft and fraud cases, Thanattha clarified that the accusations arose after she invested in multiple businesses with another lecturer named Siriporn. This business partner accused Thanattha of committing fraud by stealing her BMW car. However, Thanattha maintained that Siriporn arranged for someone to collect the vehicle from her home and that she had no knowledge of the car’s whereabouts. Thanattha firmly denied the accusations, alleging that Siriporn fabricated the complaint against her due to conflicts in their business dealings. She noted that two cases filed by Siriporn were already dismissed for lack of evidence, and two other cases are currently pending in court. In response to the various legal accusations and complications, the RPCA issued an official document announcing Thanattha’s dismissal as a lecturer on October 29. The academy cited three reasons for her removal, stating: Thanattha does not meet the criteria and qualifications for a special lecturer at the RPCA. The officials responsible for hiring special lecturers acted arbitrarily by adding Thanattha to the special lecturers’ list, which did not adhere to RPCA protocols and procedures. The lecturer in question has genuinely acted unethically, as reported in the news. Therefore, a fact-finding committee must be established to proceed according to regulations. Thanattha has not yet spoken to the media following her dismissal. Additionally, there were no further developments regarding the lawsuit she filed against Big Joke’s wife. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Hone Keasae Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-29

Thai man arrested for attempted murder of sex worker over wallet dispute Photo via SiamRath Police arrested a Thai man for the attempted murder of a sex worker in Pattaya after he crashed his car into her and fired shots at her, following a misunderstanding over a suspected theft. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341958-thai-man-arrested-for-attempted-murder-of-sex-worker-over-wallet-dispute/

Police arrested a Thai man for the attempted murder of a sex worker in Pattaya after he crashed his car into her and fired shots at her, following a misunderstanding over a suspected theft. Officers from Nong Prue Police Station apprehended the 51 year old man, identified as Wathin, at his home in the Isaan province of Sisaket at around 7.17pm, yesterday, October 27. A 9mm blank gun and ammunition were seized at the scene. He was arrested in connection with the attempted murder of the sex worker, which occurred in Pattaya on October 26. Wathin explained that he was drinking on Pattaya Beach on the day of the incident and meeting the woman, identified as 39 year old Phit. They got along well so he invited her to continue enjoying the beach vibes with him at Jomtien Beach. After they visited Jomtien Beach, Wathin claimed that he took Phit back to Pattaya Beach and later discovered that his wallet, which was stored inside the car, was missing. He suspected Phit of stealing it but she denied any wrongdoing. In addition to denying the theft, Phit demanded payment for her time, which angered Wathin. According to Wathin, Phit threatened to file a complaint against him for failing to pay her and immediately got out of his car. Wallet found in car Wathin stated that he later saw Phit sitting on a motorcycle with another man. The motorcyclist approached his car and demanded that he park to discuss the unpaid fee. Wathin claimed he felt threatened and decided to fire two shots at the motorcycle. Wathin further explained that the two continued to pursue him, prompting him to crash his car into the motorcycle, causing them to fall onto the road. Wathin then fled to his home province of Sisaket to spend time with his family. He did not disclose his actions to his family until he was arrested. Wathin added that he later found his wallet on the floor of his car. The condition of the two victims was not revealed in the report. Wathin is now facing three charges: Section 8 of the Act on Firearms, Ammunition, Explosive, Fireworks, and Imitation Firearm: Carrying a firearm in a public place without permission or necessity. The punishment for this offence is imprisonment for up to five years, a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or both. Section 371 of the Criminal Law: Carrying a weapon in a public place without a valid reason. The penalty is a fine of up to 100 baht, and the weapon will be confiscated. Attempted Murder: This charge carries a penalty of half the punishment for murder under Section 288 of the Criminal Law, which can result in the death penalty, life imprisonment, or imprisonment for 15 to 20 years. By Petch Petpailin Photo via SiamRath Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-28

Century-Old Chiang Mai Fig Tree Relocated Amid Controversy Photo: Thai PBS World In a move that has divided the Chiang Mai community, the Highway Department has completed the relocation of a 100-year-old fig tree, previously rooted in the centre of a busy highway in Muang district. The landmark tree's relocation to the grounds of Chiang Mai's museum follows a ruling by the Chiang Mai Administrative Court on July 2. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341951-century-old-chiang-mai-fig-tree-relocated-amid-controversy/

In a move that has divided the Chiang Mai community, the Highway Department has completed the relocation of a 100-year-old fig tree, previously rooted in the centre of a busy highway in Muang district. The landmark tree's relocation to the grounds of Chiang Mai's museum follows a ruling by the Chiang Mai Administrative Court on July 2. For many years, the age-old tree nestled near the Rinkam intersection symbolised more than just a natural curiosity; it represented the heart of a growing debate. Constructed around in the midst of a major road, the tree contributed to a bottleneck that sparked safety concerns as accidents became more frequent in the area. Residents living close by have long campaigned for its relocation due to safety hazards, echoing worries that the potential collapse of the tree could trigger further incidents. The fig tree's vicinity had, over time, also become infamous as a hotspot for waste disposal and less savoury activities, adding to the disquiet. Yet, it's not only the locals who were concerned. Environmental protection groups, notably the Committee for the Protection of Mae Ping and its Environment, joined forces with a road safety support organisation in 2018. They lodged protests and petitions, including pleas to the Human Rights Commission, to halt any tampering with the notable tree. The court's decision set the wheels in motion for the tree's delicate extraction, which began in September. The move, completed before the deadline on October 2, aims to blend preservation with public safety. Now residing in front of Chiang Mai's museum, the fig tree embarks on a new chapter while the community reassesses the highway's future. Photo: Thai PBS World -- 2024-10-28

Thai Ophthalmologist Awarded Prestigious Henry Davison Honour File photo for reference only Dr Uraiwan Tinnungwattana, an esteemed ophthalmologist from the Thai Red Cross Society (TRCS), has been honoured with the prestigious Henry Davison Award by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). This award, recognising extraordinary efforts to uplift the vulnerable, acknowledges Dr Uraiwan's impactful work in eye care. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341950-thai-ophthalmologist-awarded-prestigious-henry-davison-honour/

Dr Uraiwan Tinnungwattana, an esteemed ophthalmologist from the Thai Red Cross Society (TRCS), has been honoured with the prestigious Henry Davison Award by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). This award, recognising extraordinary efforts to uplift the vulnerable, acknowledges Dr Uraiwan's impactful work in eye care. As the chair of TRCS's Eye Surgery Project, Dr Uraiwan has championed free vision-restoring surgeries for underprivileged communities across Thailand for nearly 30 years. This initiative, named in honour of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, has benefited over 75,000 patients suffering from various eye disorders. In addition to surgeries, Dr Uraiwan leads a Mobile Eyeglasses Unit that screens children in remote areas for vision issues, providing over 100,000 pairs of eyeglasses to those in need. The Henry Davison Award, named after the IFRC founder, was established in 2003 and bestowed biennially to individuals or societies demonstrating exceptional humanitarian service. This year's ceremony occurred last Wednesday at the IFRC General Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland. Dr Uraiwan is lauded alongside past Thai recipient Phan Wannamethee, who was awarded in 2013 for his dedication to enhancing the Thai Red Cross's humanitarian efforts. With headquarters in Geneva, the IFRC remains the world's largest humanitarian network, uniting nearly 15 million volunteers globally. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-28

Thailand Enters Late Cool Season Amid North-South Weather Divide Photo: The Pattaya News Thailand's cool season is set to kick off on Tuesday, 29th October, as confirmed by the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD), arriving approximately two weeks behind its usual start date. This period will extend through to late February, bringing a diverse range of climatic conditions across the country. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341949-thailand-enters-late-cool-season-amid-north-south-weather-divide/

Thailand's cool season is set to kick off on Tuesday, 29th October, as confirmed by the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD), arriving approximately two weeks behind its usual start date. This period will extend through to late February, bringing a diverse range of climatic conditions across the country. Bangkok anticipates cooler temperatures, dropping to 16-18 °C, while surrounding areas might experience lows of 14-16 °C. The northern and northeastern regions brace for even chillier weather, with temperatures potentially plummeting to 6-8 °C. In the highlands, the conditions could enable the formation of frost, painting a rare winter scene in the tropical nation. Conversely, southern Thailand faces an adverse scenario with high chances of heavy rainfall and strong winds, especially in the Gulf of Thailand. Waves are forecasted to reach heights of 2-3 metres, exacerbating risks of storm surges. As the possibility of tropical cyclones looms in November and December, the situation could escalate, with waves rising to potentially hazardous levels of 3-5 metres. Meanwhile, air pollution remains a pressing concern in Bangkok. The Centre for Air Pollution Mitigation reports PM2.5 dust levels exceeding safe limits, particularly impacting areas like Nong Khaem district. Authorities have urged residents to minimise outdoor activities and limit vehicle usage to help combat deteriorating air quality. To add to the weather impact, Tropical Storm Trami is expected to affect regions from China to Vietnam, influencing northern, northeastern, central, and eastern parts of Thailand today. The impending storm could usher in rains and gusty winds, with significant downpours anticipated in provinces such as Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, and Ubon Ratchathani. As Thailand transitions into its cool season, residents must brace for the contrasting weather challenges each region faces, from chill to storms and pollution issues, reported The Pattaya News. Photo: The Pattaya News -- 2024-10-28

Thai Airways Launches "Streets to Sky" to Promote Thai Cuisine File photo for reference only Thai Airways International has unveiled "Streets to Sky," an initiative to bring the essence of Thai street cuisine to international flight passengers. Starting August 2024, travellers departing from Bangkok can savour authentic Thai flavours mid-flight, enhancing the global culinary profile of the nation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341948-thai-airways-launches-streets-to-sky-to-promote-thai-cuisine/

Thai Airways International has unveiled "Streets to Sky," an initiative to bring the essence of Thai street cuisine to international flight passengers. Starting August 2024, travellers departing from Bangkok can savour authentic Thai flavours mid-flight, enhancing the global culinary profile of the nation. The airline's venture involves a collaboration with PintoHub, a specialist in Thai culinary arts. The programme features a rotating selection of street food delights, refreshed bi-monthly to keep passengers intrigued. Among them are dishes like rice with stir-fried chicken and basil, Massaman curry, and northern Thai curry noodle. This initiative supports local farmers by sourcing top-notch, local ingredients, showcasing Thailand’s rich food culture to an international audience. "Streets to Sky" aims to offer an immediate taste of Thailand to all aboard, blending tradition with innovation and turning a flight into a cultural experience. By elevating in-flight dining, Thai Airways seeks not only to satisfy appetites but to uplift the nation's culinary status, turning Thai food into a formidable soft power on the world stage. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-28