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Chiang Mai Condo Fraud Victims Demand DSI Action Amid Stalled Probe File photo for reference only In Chiang Mai, victims of a notorious condominium fraud scandal continue their quest for justice as they seek support from the Foundation Campaigning to Reclaim Social Justice. Their frustration mounts over the lack of progress in their case since concerns were first raised back in 2022. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341627-chiang-mai-condo-fraud-victims-demand-dsi-action-amid-stalled-probe/

In Chiang Mai, victims of a notorious condominium fraud scandal continue their quest for justice as they seek support from the Foundation Campaigning to Reclaim Social Justice. Their frustration mounts over the lack of progress in their case since concerns were first raised back in 2022. The foundation, led by seasoned lawyer Ronnarong Kaewpet, has become a beacon of hope for these investors who fell prey to what initially seemed a lucrative opportunity. Among the deceived is Narumon Simons, who invested in a luxury condominium project in Hang Dong District. Units in the development were glamorised with a starting price of 2.9 million baht each and backed by A-list celebrity endorsements. Though Narumon enjoyed rental income from 2019 to 2022, payments abruptly ceased, leaving her no option but to cancel her contract. However, upon returning to her property, she discovered it occupied and in disrepair, a situation shockingly common among other investors. Over 100 affected parties reported losses totalling over 300 million baht to the Department of Special Investigation. Despite their exhaustive efforts, the case remains unresolved, urging victims like Narumon to press for decisive action, inspired by recent swift developments in a separate fraud case. Ronnarong has pledged to lead the victims in demanding accountability from the DSI, hopeful that their plight will finally receive the urgent attention it warrants. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-24

Forging chaos: Blacksmith turns village night into tail of terror Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A tranquil Thai village turned into a night of horror as a local blacksmith, identified as Adirek, unleashed mayhem in Cha-uat, Nakhon Si Thammarat, by poisoning three loyal dogs and savagely attacking a father and son duo. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341626-forging-chaos-blacksmith-turns-village-night-into-tail-of-terror/

A tranquil Thai village turned into a night of horror as a local blacksmith, identified as Adirek, unleashed mayhem in Cha-uat, Nakhon Si Thammarat, by poisoning three loyal dogs and savagely attacking a father and son duo. Police were alerted to the bloody clash late last night, rushing to a home in Moo 2, Tha Samet, only to find pools of blood but no trace of the out-of-control craftsman. Victims 48 year old Suthat and his 24 year old son, Thanyagon, ended up at Cha-uat Hospital after the terrifying encounter, with Suthat nursing a stab to his arm, while Thanyagon suffered a brutal chest wound from a knife, piercing straight into his lung. A heroic neighbour whisked them to safety just in time. Grisly details emerged of Adirek’s sinister prelude. Earlier in the evening he’d driven by, hurling poisoned pork at the household’s unsuspecting dogs. Only one of the stout-hearted hounds clung to life after the deadly deed. Later, Adirek, known locally as Chang Rek, roared back on his motorbike, wooden stick in hand, launching into an unprovoked attack on Suthat’s disabled worker. His subsequent threats quickly became reality as he unleashed his blade on Suthat and, gallantly coming to his father’s rescue, Thanyagon also fell victim to the frenzied stabbings. An unravelling feud appears to be at the bloody heart of the vicious attack, a four-month saga sparked by a near-miss accident involving Suthat’s employee, provoking an enraged Adirek. His violent tendencies had flared up two months ago when he took a machete to Suthat’s door, seemingly igniting last night’s rampage. The blacksmith harbours a notorious switch from affable to aggressive when under the influence of alcohol. While Suthat shares his harrowing account with Cha-uat Police, Adirek remains on the run, evading justice for his nocturnal terror. The police continue their search to apprehend him. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-24

Stamp out the fraud: Uzbek man licked at Phuket Airport Picture courtesy of Phuket Airport Immigration Immigration officers at Phuket International Airport apprehended a 35 year old Uzbek man on allegations of using forged stamps. The arrest occurred at the international arrivals hall around 9pm yesterday, October 23. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341615-stamp-out-the-fraud-uzbek-man-licked-at-phuket-airport/

Immigration officers at Phuket International Airport apprehended a 35 year old Uzbek man on allegations of using forged stamps. The arrest occurred at the international arrivals hall around 9pm yesterday, October 23. A team from the Phuket Immigration Bureau, acting on the orders of Police Major General Chengron Rimphidi, Commander of Immigration Bureau 2, carried out the operation, according to an online report by immigration officers at the airport. The officers involved in the arrest included Police Colonel Rungroj Nilamongkol, Deputy Commander of Immigration Bureau 2, and Police Colonel Atisak Panya, Superintendent of Immigration Bureau 2. The investigation, led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Akkaraphon Keawkiattiyot and Senior Sergeant Major Aksorn Chawkamkhet from the Phuket Immigration Checkpoint, detained the suspect on charges of using a forged seal, stamp, or stamping sheet, as confirmed by the report. The Uzbek man was taken into custody at the airport and subsequently transferred to Sakhu Police Station for further legal proceedings, reported The Phuket News. The suspect’s name was not disclosed in the report, and the specific stamps in the passport that were allegedly forged were not detailed. In related news, the Thai police arrested three agency operators for forging documents to submit visa applications to various embassies, seizing numerous counterfeit items. The suspects confessed to their crimes and are now facing legal proceedings. At 11am on May 28, at the Immigration Office in Mueang Thong Thani, Deputy Commander-in-Chief Panthana Nuchnarot, along with Deputy Commander-in-Chief Ratchachot Chotikoon and other relevant officers, announced the results of an investigation coordinated with several embassies in Thailand. These embassies had raised suspicions that hundreds of Thai nationals applying for visas to European countries were submitting fake documents. Upon receiving these concerns, the Immigration Bureau’s specialised unit was instructed to verify the documents. The investigation revealed that many of the documents submitted by Thai applicants, such as employment certificates, bank statements, and financial endorsements, were counterfeit. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Phuket Airport Immigration Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-24

Big Joke’s on her: Police wife caught in affair and burglary storm Photo via KomChadLuek The wife of former Deputy Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police, Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, has surrendered to Phra Kanong Police Station following allegations of an affair and the theft of 5.7 million baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341614-big-joke’s-on-her-police-wife-caught-in-affair-and-burglary-storm/

The wife of former Deputy Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police, Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, has surrendered to Phra Kanong Police Station following allegations of an affair and the theft of 5.7 million baht. These allegations, concerning an extramarital affair and the theft of valuables worth approximately 5.7 million baht, surfaced after a complaint was filed with the police on October 20 by a 50 year old woman named Thanattha. Thanattha accused the wife of the former police chief of being involved. Thanattha claimed that the woman had an affair with her police officer husband and used a spare key to enter her condominium in Soi Sukhumvit 101 in Bangkok, where she allegedly stole valuables, including 600,000 baht in cash and 5.1 million baht in gold. The name of the accused woman remained undisclosed until today, October, 24 when Big Joke‘s wife, Sirinatda “Kubkip” Hakparn, also known as Madam Kubkip, turned herself into the police. Thanattha further claimed that Sirinatda left five bags of cash in her condominium but she did not check the amount of money in them. She took the bags to the police station for further examination. Officers intend to conduct a DNA test on the bags to determine the true owner of the cash. Big Joke himself did not accompany his wife to the police station today and has not yet spoken to the media regarding the matter. According to Matichon, Sirinatda gave a brief statement to reporters, denying the allegations. “It’s not true. I will assign my lawyer to handle anything that damages my reputation.” It is also unclear whether Sirinatda will be granted bail. Big Joke and the police officers working closely with him were previously suspended from their positions following alleged involvement in an online gambling ring. The case remains under investigation, and there have been no recent developments. By Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-24

Thai Families Seek Justice Against 'Rainbow Cult' in Investment Scandal File photo for reference only In a troubling case from the Isaan province's Sisaket, two Thai families are attempting to take legal action against the leader of a so-called 'rainbow cult'. The cult, known for its rainbow-coloured attire and roof, allegedly promotes explicit behaviour while running what families claim is an investment scam. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341612-thai-families-seek-justice-against-rainbow-cult-in-investment-scandal/

In a troubling case from the Isaan province's Sisaket, two Thai families are attempting to take legal action against the leader of a so-called 'rainbow cult'. The cult, known for its rainbow-coloured attire and roof, allegedly promotes explicit behaviour while running what families claim is an investment scam. The families approached Prang Ku Police Station on 23rd October, seeking to file complaints against the leader. They accuse him of luring their mothers into his investment scheme with promises of high returns, such as earning up to 30,000 baht in gold from just a 1,000 baht outlay. Despite their efforts, the police declined their complaints, citing that the victims must report the crime themselves. Desperate to safeguard their relatives' remaining assets, the families now appeal to news agencies for assistance. They report significant financial losses, including Puttimate, who said his mother invested over 100,000 baht with no return, yet remains hopeful of future profits. Another victim’s son revealed that his mother sold land worth millions to invest further and now lives at the cult premises. Adding to their grievances are allegations of inappropriate teachings within the cult. A video reportedly shows explicit exchanges between the leader and a follower, raising more concerns about the group's operations. Interestingly, this is not the leader's first brush with controversy. Previously a monk, he was once arrested in 2014 after a bizarre underwater meditation ceremony. He vanished for two years before emerging to lead this rainbow cult. The police acknowledge the potential fraud but insist they need direct victim complaints to proceed legally. As the families rally support, the case highlights the challenges victims face in confronting such scams in their communities. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-24

Thai Fugitive's Fifth-Floor Plunge Ends in Arrest File photo for reference only In a dramatic turn of events yesterday, a 39-year-old Thai man named Anurut attempted to elude capture by leaping from a fifth-floor dormitory window, only to crash-land on a pickup truck. The incident unfolded in Pathum Thani after police received a tip-off linking Anurut to a motorcycle theft in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341610-thai-fugitives-fifth-floor-plunge-ends-in-arrest/

In a dramatic turn of events yesterday, a 39-year-old Thai man named Anurut attempted to elude capture by leaping from a fifth-floor dormitory window, only to crash-land on a pickup truck. The incident unfolded in Pathum Thani after police received a tip-off linking Anurut to a motorcycle theft in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. Hours after the alleged theft, Khlong Luang Police officers coordinated with their Wang Noi counterparts to corner Anurut, suspected to be hiding on Soi Nakhon Chai Villa, Khlong Nueng. As police breached room 515, Anurut opted for a risky escape, jumping from the window to evade arrest. The ill-fated leap resulted in significant injuries and added complications to Anurut’s day, now marred with legal charges in addition to his physical ordeal. He landed on an Isuzu truck, causing extensive damage and leaving blood evidence at the scene. An inspection of the premises also led to the arrest of two other men found in the room, who are currently being questioned by police to ascertain their involvement, if any, in the theft. Police also seized an unregistered Honda motorcycle at the scene, believed to be associated with Anurut’s crime spree. An injured Anurut has been taken for medical treatment at Wang Noi Hospital before he faces the legal consequences of his actions. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-24

Thai Deep Tech Startups Flourish, Generating Over 965M Baht Economic Value File photo for reference only In a remarkable boost to Thailand's economy, the Higher Education Ministry’s Programme Management Unit for Competitiveness (PMUC) has nurtured more than 90 deep tech startups, yielding an economic benefit of over 965 million baht. By leveraging cutting-edge university research to commercialise innovative products, the PMUC plays a pivotal role in invigorating the national economy. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341609-thai-deep-tech-startups-flourish-generating-over-965m-baht-economic-value/

In a remarkable boost to Thailand's economy, the Higher Education Ministry’s Programme Management Unit for Competitiveness (PMUC) has nurtured more than 90 deep tech startups, yielding an economic benefit of over 965 million baht. By leveraging cutting-edge university research to commercialise innovative products, the PMUC plays a pivotal role in invigorating the national economy. Under the stewardship of Director Thongchai Suwansichon, the PMUC has successfully linked academic research with industry, transforming groundbreaking science and technology into market-ready products. Their efforts were showcased this week at the PMUC CONNECT event, which seeks to align these startups with investors, propelling them towards international markets. Over the past five years, the PMUC has channelled 250 million baht towards collaborations with nine universities and agencies, resulting in twelve deep science and technology accelerator programmes. These initiatives support early-stage startups in transitioning their research innovations from theory to commercial reality. Deep tech startups are at the forefront of Thailand’s economic expansion, exploiting advanced science and technology to develop pivotal products and services. The PMUC facilitates business matches, connecting university researchers with investors, fostering an environment ripe for innovation and economic development. By the 2025 fiscal year, the PMUC aims to expand its accelerator programmes globally, forging links with foreign embassies and international partners in regions such as Singapore, Sweden, the UK, and Hong Kong. This global reach intends to open new market and regulatory opportunities for Thai startups. Furthermore, the PMUC is enhancing its strategy by training university executives to morph researchers into chief technology officers, thus reinforcing the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Notably, ModGut Co, an entity within the PMUC's accelerator, develops solutions for analysing gut microbiota. The startup is currently negotiating Series A funding to expand its influence across Southeast Asia and potentially into Western markets. The PMUC's initiatives not only spotlight Thailand’s rising deep tech sector but also underline the global potential of innovative Thai startups ready to make their mark on the world stage. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-24

Thai Bond Sell-off Surges Amid Political Tensions and Rate Worries File photo for reference only Foreign investors are pulling out of Thai government bonds in droves, driven largely by political instability and the Bank of Thailand's hesitance to further cut interest rates. In a significant move, over US$850 million has been withdrawn this month alone, making it the largest outflow since August last year, as per the Thai Bond Market Association. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341607-thai-bond-sell-off-surges-amid-political-tensions-and-rate-worries/

Foreign investors are pulling out of Thai government bonds in droves, driven largely by political instability and the Bank of Thailand's hesitance to further cut interest rates. In a significant move, over US$850 million has been withdrawn this month alone, making it the largest outflow since August last year, as per the Thai Bond Market Association. The stress on the Thai bond market stems from several factors. Political uncertainty looms large, with ongoing probes into the ruling party's alleged ties to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Financial experts suggest that the political climate is likely to deter investment interest for the foreseeable future, especially with the backdrop of the upcoming US presidential elections and speculation around potential trade reprisals. At the heart of investor concern is the Bank of Thailand's reluctance to match last week's unexpected rate cut with further reductions, despite government pressures. This cautious stance leaves the bond market in a precarious position, with yields currently stabilized between 2.3% and 2.4%, according to Krungthai Bank Public Co. The economic milieu is further complicated by the tougher competition Thai bonds face from neighbouring countries. Malaysia's fiscal reforms, for example, are making it an attractive alternative for foreign investors. Coupled with a falling yield gap between Thai bonds and US Treasuries, now at its lowest since May, investors like Abrdn plc are finding more lucrative opportunities elsewhere. For dollar-based investors, returns on Thai bonds have slumped by 3.3% this month. Market forecasts currently reflect a mere 50% chance of another BoT rate cut, constraining the potential for yield improvements in the near term. Despite mounting trade war fears potentially influencing BoT's future policy, experts like Poon Panichpibool predict little room for yields to dip further. In short, the Thai bond market finds itself at a crossroads, grappling with both internal and external pressures. As the situation unfolds, eyes remain fixed on regional stability and the Bank of Thailand's next moves. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-24

High stakes: Phuket shop owner rolls up on thieves for a taste of revenge Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ One of the cannabis shop owners in Phuket, who fell victim to two foreign thieves, yesterday tracked down the suspects and physically assaulted them at their accommodation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341605-high-stakes-phuket-shop-owner-rolls-up-on-thieves-for-a-taste-of-revenge/

One of the cannabis shop owners in Phuket, who fell victim to two foreign thieves, yesterday tracked down the suspects and physically assaulted them at their accommodation. Several cannabis shop owners in Phuket reached out to other vendors to warn them after losing products to the two foreign thieves, whose identities remain undisclosed. CCTV footage from some of the ganja shops showed the thieves stealing entire jars of products from each shop. The Phuket Times reported that more than 10 shops were robbed, with losses amounting to over 100,000 baht. The latest update on the case, reported today, October 24, revealed that the two thieves are now in police custody. Their arrest was not due to a police investigation but rather the actions of one of the victims. One victim disclosed to the media that he tracked the thieves on his own until he located their accommodation in the Chalong district of Phuket yesterday. He admitted that he was extremely angry and rushed to physically assault both of them. The owner later called the police to the scene to arrest the suspects. Pictures shared in the media showed that a rescue team also attended the scene to provide first aid to the injured foreigners. The shop owner told the media that he acknowledged that physically assaulting the thieves was wrong and illegal but felt compelled to do so because the case was being ignored by the police. He and other victims submitted all evidence to the police but the case made no progress. The owner stated that the two thieves would have continued their criminal acts, leading to further losses if he did not intervene. The owner also shared the video of himself at the thieves’ accommodation with the media. He was heard saying… “Hello! How are you? Okay? You f*cking bastard! You messed with the wrong man!” The media reported that the foreign thieves are currently being held at Chalong Police Station. Any cannabis shop owners who have fallen victim to these thefts are now encouraged to report the matter to the police station. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-24

Man ends life at shooting range after renting gun Picture courtesy of postjung A man tragically ended his life at a shooting range after renting a gun and firing 30 rounds. His friend revealed that he had inquired at multiple ranges before finding one willing to rent a gun, suspecting debt issues as the motive. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341604-man-ends-life-at-shooting-range-after-renting-gun/

Ex-boxer arrested for fatal punch of colleague while drinking Image courtesy of KhaoSod A former boxer has been arrested for fatally punching his colleague during a drinking session due to a long-standing grudge. The ex-boxer confessed to the crime while reconstructing the event with the police. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341603-ex-boxer-arrested-for-fatal-punch-of-colleague-while-drinking/

A man tragically ended his life at a shooting range after renting a gun and firing 30 rounds. His friend revealed that he had inquired at multiple ranges before finding one willing to rent a gun, suspecting debt issues as the motive. Police in Chachoengsao responded to a report from the 191 radio centre about a man who had shot himself at a shooting range in Bang Toei, Mueang Chachoengsao. The incident occurred yesterday, October 23. Upon arrival, police, along with the district chief, found the body of a 40 year old man, referred to as A, from Surin province. He was discovered lying dead inside a shooting booth with a gunshot wound to his right temple from an 11mm bullet. Blood covered his face and the floor, and a magazine-fed firearm lay beside his body. Officials documented the scene as evidence for further investigation. CCTV footage revealed that the deceased had arrived at the shooting range on a motorcycle. He rented a gun from the range and purchased a box of 50 rounds. He entered the shooting booth and fired approximately 30 rounds. When the range supervisor was momentarily distracted, A used the rented firearm to shoot himself. A friend of the deceased mentioned that the day before the incident, A was still in Surin province. It is believed that he travelled to Chachoengsao in the afternoon to visit his wife. Before the incident, A had contacted several shooting ranges, but none allowed him to rent a firearm until he found this particular range. The friend expressed disbelief that A would take such drastic action, suspecting that debt might have driven him to it, reported KhaoSod. The police will continue investigating to determine the exact motive before proceeding with further actions. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of postjung Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-24

A former boxer has been arrested for fatally punching his colleague during a drinking session due to a long-standing grudge. The ex-boxer confessed to the crime while reconstructing the event with the police. Police Lieutenant Colonel Sirichai Jaroensiri from Prakhon Chai Police Station in Buriram province, along with the investigation team, escorted 32 year old Krittana for a reenactment of the incident. Krittana admitted to assaulting his colleague, 53 year old Wityanont, resulting in his death, while they were drinking together. Krittana explained during the reenactment that he and Wityanont had known each other and worked together for about eight months. During their drinking sessions, Wityanont often verbally abused him, which Krittana attributed to their age difference. He admitted harbouring resentment for several months due to these frequent insults. On the day of the incident, Krittana and Wityanont were drinking together when, as usual, Wityanont started insulting him. In a fit of anger, Krittana punched Wityanont in the face and torso three times. After the altercation, Wityanont got back up and continued drinking with Krittana before they both fell asleep from intoxication. When Krittana woke up, he attempted to rouse Wityanont, only to discover that he was no longer breathing. Krittana speculated that Wityanont’s death could have been due to excessive alcohol consumption or the severity of the punches, given his background as a former boxer. The investigation is ongoing to determine the exact cause of death. Krittana’s past as an ex-boxer and his acknowledgement of the force of his punches are being considered potential factors contributing to the fatal outcome. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-24

Man arrested for murder and robbery of former village head’s wife Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Phetchaburi Province arrested a 41 year old Thai man in connection with the murder and robbery of a former village head’s wife. The family suspected foul play, prompting them to exhume her body for a forensic examination. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341602-man-arrested-for-murder-and-robbery-of-former-village-head’s-wife/

Police in Phetchaburi Province arrested a 41 year old Thai man in connection with the murder and robbery of a former village head’s wife. The family suspected foul play, prompting them to exhume her body for a forensic examination. The tragic incident occurred earlier this month when the former village head’s wife, Pranee, was found dead in her home. Initially, her family believed she had died from a chronic illness, specifically high blood pressure. However, upon discovering missing valuables and a bicycle often used by Pranee, suspicions of murder and robbery arose. Pranee’s husband, Sanor, then reported the incident to the local police, urging them to investigate further. “We thought she had passed away due to her illness but upon noticing the missing items, we knew something was wrong.” The police investigation revealed that Pranee had been strangled, and several items were stolen from her home. The culprit was identified as Virat, a man with a notorious criminal history. Evidence from nearby CCTV cameras and witness testimonies pointed to him, prompting the police to issue an arrest warrant. On the evening of yesterday, October 23, police officers led by Deputy Inspector Sayumpoo Sittikul apprehended Virat in Suan Phueng district, Ratchaburi province. During the arrest, they recovered several stolen items, including shotgun shells, a digital camera, a wristwatch, and a laptop bag, said a police spokesperson. “He was found with items matching the description of the stolen goods from Pranee’s home. This solidified our case against him.” During interrogation, Virat confessed to visiting Pranee’s house to borrow money, as they were acquainted. When Pranee refused and called for help, Virat panicked and strangled her before fleeing with her belongings, reported KhaoSod. Further investigation into Virat’s background uncovered a long list of prior offences, spanning over a decade. His criminal record includes charges of public intoxication, fraud, and theft across various provinces in Thailand. Notable incidents include: September 17, 2010: Arrested in Chon Buri for public intoxication. April 23, 2013: Arrested in Uttaradit for fraud. September 17, 2015: Arrested in Phichit for fraud. September 20, 2015: Arrested in Pathum Thani for theft. April 5, 2015: Arrested in Pathum Thani for joint fraud. August 2, 2023: Arrested in Pattaya for fraud, with a subsequent warrant issued on August 11 for theft in residential and government premises. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-24