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Thai Privilege Card Scrutinised Following Revelations of Abuse by Criminals Photo courtesy of Phuket GO Revelations have emerged regarding individuals with a criminal background exploiting the Thai Privilege Card, a long-term visa scheme for Thailand. Foreign criminals, operating within the country, are allegedly using the visa to maintain their illegal activities, prompting concerns from Thailand's Central Investigation Bureau (CIB). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327149-thailand-probes-wealthy-foreigners-for-money-laundering-scheme/?do=findComment&comment=18912061

Thailand Set to Elect New Senate Amidst Constitutional Revamp File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Microsoft Bing As the curtain falls on Thailand's current Senate class, numbering 250 senators, the Southeast Asian nation prepares to usher in a new era of electoral reconfiguration. The revised constitutional rules aim to typically reposition the Senate's role, thus abolishing their reach in the selection of the country's prime minister. This significant constitutional alteration comes after a period that witnessed the senators log in over 1,579 hours in deliberations over five years, passed an assortment of legislative resolutions but displayed noticeable restraint towards constitutional amendments, greenlighting a solitary proposal out of twenty that came their way. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327158-thailand-set-to-elect-new-senate-amidst-constitutional-revamp/

As the curtain falls on Thailand's current Senate class, numbering 250 senators, the Southeast Asian nation prepares to usher in a new era of electoral reconfiguration. The revised constitutional rules aim to typically reposition the Senate's role, thus abolishing their reach in the selection of the country's prime minister. This significant constitutional alteration comes after a period that witnessed the senators log in over 1,579 hours in deliberations over five years, passed an assortment of legislative resolutions but displayed noticeable restraint towards constitutional amendments, greenlighting a solitary proposal out of twenty that came their way. The outgoing class of senators left an indelible mark on Thailand's political fabric. They were instrumental in conferring their support to former Prime Minister Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha in 2019 and later to Srettha Thavisin in 2022. Their voting patterns were characteristic of their conservative disposition, particularly noticeable in their preference to oppose changes to the contentious lese majeste law. A chunk of senators argued that this refusal was intrinsically tied to the nation's high regard for its royal traditions. Beyond their legislative mandate, the outgoing Senate was actively involved in governmental oversight, posing 588 separate queries to the government. However, a significant number of these queries fell on deaf ears, receiving no response. This Senate bloc also played a pivotal role in designating officials for seven independent agencies, spotlighting the necessity of wide-ranging Senate approval for each nominee. With the upcoming Senate elections on the horizon, the race has begun with candidates starting their registration processes. The polls, organised in a three-step process—district, provincial, and national—will determine the 200 senators that will comprise different professional groups. Observers see these forthcoming elections as a fundamental stride towards fortifying Thailand's democratic fabric, hinting at a more engaged approach to the nation's governance. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Microsoft Bing -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Woman's Remains Unearthed in Taiwan: Suspect Now in Custody Photo courtesy of Thai PBS The gruesome discovery of a Thai woman's body was made in a remote region near Taiwan's port city of Keelung last Friday, triggering widespread shock and urgent police investigations. The vital clue? A text appeal for help sent from her mobile phone. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327157-thai-womans-remains-unearthed-in-taiwan-suspect-now-in-custody/

The gruesome discovery of a Thai woman's body was made in a remote region near Taiwan's port city of Keelung last Friday, triggering widespread shock and urgent police investigations. The vital clue? A text appeal for help sent from her mobile phone. News emerged from Taiwan's TVBS report that the victim had texted her boyfriend for help, leading him and his friends to the remote wooded area where they found her remains in a ravine. Swiftly, the police were mobilised to the seemingly idyllic but now tainted setting. In the course of their investigations, law enforcement officers retrieved a discarded cigarette butt roughly 300 metres away from the apparent grave. This clue, in conjunction with the woman's multiple stab wounds and eventual discard into the ten-meter deep ravine, led them to suspect a fierce altercation preceded the chilling act. As per recent updates from Taiwanese media, a suspect is now being held in custody. The victim's trail traces back to a traditional massage parlour in Taiwan where she had journeyed from Thailand for employment, explains her aunt, Duangporn Changlek. Despite the expiration of her visa, the lure of steady earnings made her linger on illegally. She was thus able to remit monthly sums ranging from 4,000 to 7,000 baht home, to provide for her children. Changlek adds that her niece had confided in her about securing another job as a domestic worker, of late. Her tales of a hard-nosed employer and a scant supply of rest had elicited Changlek's advice to seek friendlier employment prospects elsewhere. Heartbreak was echoed by the victim's mother, Pong-ampai Koptemanee, who spoke of her unnerving conversation with her daughter's friends. They had phoned to inform her of her daughter's demise under questionable circumstances, claiming it to be a suicide. The veracity of this tragic news, however, only became undeniable upon its wide public awareness in the media. Photo courtesy of Thai PBS -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Businesses in Pattaya Oppose Suggested Reversal of Cannabis Law File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google In Pattaya, Thailand, there are mixed feelings among businesses and locals about the potential move by the Thai government to categorize cannabis as a controlled substance. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326971-future-of-thai-cannabis-at-stake-activists-defend-against-reclassification-proposal/?do=findComment&comment=18905660

Businesses in Pattaya Oppose Suggested Reversal of Cannabis Law In Pattaya, Thailand, there are mixed feelings among businesses and locals about the potential move by the Thai government to categorize cannabis as a controlled substance. A staff member at HoneyPuff, a marijuana dispensary in South Pattaya, Mr. Bank, shared his fears with local press about the proposed legal changes. He indicated that HoneyPuff has already invested heavily in import equipment, contracts with cannabis farms, and legal licenses. Mr. Bank worries that if this reclassification happens, it could lead to a cascade effect. This would, in turn, result in job losses and possible closure of over a thousand marijuana dispensaries in Pattaya. On the other hand, the proposed changes are also prompting different reactions from the public. A local beach vendor in Pattaya, Mr. Ta, fully backs the reclassification. He claims to have observed many acts of cannabis misuse, mainly among the youth, and expressed his concern for their future due to such irresponsible use. He told local media, "I've seen too many people, especially young ones, using cannabis irresponsibly. I'm worried about its impact on their future." File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Huge Fire Breaks Out at Marijuana Farm Warehouse in Chachoengsao, No Casualties Reported Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News On the morning of May 9th, 2024, at 10 am, local law enforcement in Mueang Chachoengsao, Chachoengsao, were alerted about a fire at a large private marijuana warehouse. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326989-huge-fire-breaks-out-at-marijuana-farm-warehouse-in-chachoengsao-no-casualties-reported/

On the morning of May 9th, 2024, at 10 am, local law enforcement in Mueang Chachoengsao, Chachoengsao, were alerted about a fire at a large private marijuana warehouse. Officers from the local police and other relevant authorities immediately rushed to the scene. The site comprised four private warehouses located close together in an open area; the fire had started in the marijuana plantation and storage area. Firefighters from the Mueang Chachoengsao team worked hard to douse the raging blaze before it could spread to the three neighboring warehouses. Their efforts paid off, as they managed to bring the fire under control within 50 minutes. According to the information provided by the police, there were no injuries or fatalities resulting from this incident. The current speculation is that an electrical short circuit may have sparked the fire, given that the walls of the marijuana warehouse were coated in flammable material. Mr. Patthorn Sitthikarn, Mayor of the Khlong Luang Phaeng Subdistrict Administrative Organization, shared these insights. For a conclusive understanding of what exactly transpired, forensic authorities from Mueang Chachoengsao, along with other relevant officials, will be launching an in-depth investigation into the warehouses affected by the fire. Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Senate candidacy application forms are available at district offices today File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google Starting today, those aspiring to become senators can collect their application packages from all district offices. The applications should include personal details, educational history, skills, and work experience, plus Election Commission's guides on Senate elections. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326988-senate-candidacy-application-forms-are-available-at-district-offices-today/

Starting today, those aspiring to become senators can collect their application packages from all district offices. The applications should include personal details, educational history, skills, and work experience, plus Election Commission's guides on Senate elections. Candidates need to present an ID card or any photo identification carrying their national ID number, which must be issued by a government agency. Application registration for the Senate election begins on Monday at 928 district offices and 77 provincial halls. The current term for the 250 serving senators, the 12th generation of senators in Thailand, ends tomorrow. To be eligible for the election, applicants must be born Thai nationals, at least 40 years old on the date of applying and have a minimum of ten years experience or knowledge in one of 20 occupational groups. There are certain categories of people who are not allowed to apply. These include media business owners or shareholders, government employees, former MPs unless they've been out of parliament for over five years, political party members, active or retired political office holders, and relatives of MPs, senators, or local administrators. In the election process, applicants will vote among themselves in three stages: district, provincial, and national level. Only 200 will eventually become senators. While the new senators won't participate in selecting the prime minister, they will have legislative powers. This includes vetting bills, amending the Constitution, and approving members of independent agencies such as the Constitutional Court, Election Commission, Ombudsmen, Audit Council, National Human Rights Commission, and the National Anti-Corruption Commission. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Top 72 Activities Every Tourist Must Do in Thailand Revealed File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) plans to launch a unique project to spark tourism during the slow season. The project will highlight 72 top activities that visitors to the nation must take part in. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326987-top-72-activities-every-tourist-must-do-in-thailand-revealed/

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) plans to launch a unique project to spark tourism during the slow season. The project will highlight 72 top activities that visitors to the nation must take part in. The project also aims to honor King Vajiralongkorn's sixth cycle birthday anniversary on July 28, according to TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool. The activities range from the energetic Muay Thai experience and mouth-watering food tours to engaging cultural adventures and lively local fashion shows. "We are working with private companies to run extensive campaigns to boost local tourism. Our efforts will include supporting tour bus companies, promoting educational trips, and encouraging government workers to travel locally," said Thapanee. She stressed the importance of the Middle East as a crucial market, and discussed plans to increase the number of flights from there due to the region's love for Thai travel, even during the rainy season. Despite geopolitical concerns, she reaffirmed the stability of Thai tourism. Responding to the attraction of the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, TAT is also planning a special program for European visitors. These tourists can watch the games live while enjoying Thailand's tropical beauty. Moving forward, the TAT is targeting Chinese tourists for the National Day festivities in October. The festivals will be held in scenic locations such as Yaowarat Road, the Hat Yai District of Songkhla, Phuket, and Ratchaburi. An optimistic Governor of the TAT predicts a rise in foreign arrivals to 39 million this year, exceeding their goal by a significant amount. This increase in tourists is expected to inject a huge 3.5 trillion baht into the economy and will align perfectly with the government's strategic plan. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Employee's pursuit across three provinces ends in fuel theft arrest Photo courtesy of The Thaiger A gas station worker pursued a middle-aged man who robbed 500 baht worth of petrol through three provinces, ending the chase 160 kilometers away. The 53-year-old man, originally from Khon Kaen, swiftly left a local gas station in Samut Songkhram province without paying for the fuel he had filled in his Toyota Vios. This triggered a high-speed chase that stretched across three provinces. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326986-employees-pursuit-across-three-provinces-ends-in-fuel-theft-arrest/

A gas station worker pursued a middle-aged man who robbed 500 baht worth of petrol through three provinces, ending the chase 160 kilometers away. The 53-year-old man, originally from Khon Kaen, swiftly left a local gas station in Samut Songkhram province without paying for the fuel he had filled in his Toyota Vios. This triggered a high-speed chase that stretched across three provinces. The highway police in Phetcha Buri managed to stop the man's car at a junction in Prachuap Khiri Khan. A popular social media page, known for sharing sensational clips, captured this high-speed pursuit and shared it with their audience, thus sparking public curiosity about the case. An online video published today reveals the gas station worker diligently chasing the man, determined to catch the petrol thief. The post has attracted various reactions online, highlighting the man's bold attempt to dodge payment for the fuel and the great lengths the worker went to so as to bring him to justice. The commitment shown by the gas station worker in chasing the offender over such a long distance has generated praise and support from many social media users who have been watching the story unfold. The incident symbolizes the challenges faced by service industry workers and their determination to perform their duties. The widely circulated video serves as a warning to potential offenders while also showcasing the commitment individuals like the gas station worker exhibit during their work. The cooperation between the gas station staff and the police to catch the fleeing thief underlines the significance of community vigilance in maintaining law and order. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Police Sting Unravels Smuggling Web: Over 1,400 kg of Heroin Seized Photo courtesy of The Thaiger British bobbies in the Thai region of Sangkhom have swept smoothly into a major drug bust, cracking down on a sophisticated narcotics network sprawling from Laos to the village of Phukhao Thong. Border patrol authorities from Na Ngiew Police Station led the operation in the Ban Mueang subdistrict, revealing an underworld operation which concealed a damning 1,404 kilogrammes of illicit heroin. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326985-police-sting-unravels-smuggling-web-over-1400-kg-of-heroin-seized/

British bobbies in the Thai region of Sangkhom have swept smoothly into a major drug bust, cracking down on a sophisticated narcotics network sprawling from Laos to the village of Phukhao Thong. Border patrol authorities from Na Ngiew Police Station led the operation in the Ban Mueang subdistrict, revealing an underworld operation which concealed a damning 1,404 kilogrammes of illicit heroin. Following a meticulous investigation, four suspects were apprehended: Niyom, Sarawut, Prasit and Pratho (ages ranging from 39 to 54). The group was chanced upon by police under the cover of darkness, handling a mysterious delivery of cardboard boxes into a nondescript house. Upon inspection, officers uncovered twenty boxes, each brimming with a stash of heroin. But the plot thickened, or rather deepened, during a heated interrogation. The suspects unveiled further surreptitious modus operandi, confessing to another hideaway containing more of the narcotic - a rubber plantation humming beneath the verdant canopy nearby. A follow-up investigation promptly ferreted out a staggering nine more cardboard boxes of the drug concealed in a makeshift shelter. On the whole, the operation, as outlined in the Bangkok Post, unearthed a total of 1,404 kilogrammes of illicit heroin. Further inquiry pointed to the involvement of Lao nationals accross the border, who reported ferrying the contraband via motorboat through the meandering course of the Mekong River to the unsuspecting rural village. The Thai operatives would then rendezvous, preparing to ensnare the rest of the country in their drug-splattered web. This operation marks a substantial blow to the drug trade stretching between the porous borders of Thailand and Laos. With every such success, law enforcers around the world edge one step closer in their relentless pursuit of dismantling international drug syndicates. The unfolding drama raises a cheer nationwide and signals hope throughout Southeast Asia, echoing one clear message: the force has indeed awakened. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Dispute over Durian fruit escalates into armed confrontation Photo courtesy of The Thaiger A man was arrested in Samut Prakan after pulling a gun at a durian fruit stand, following an argument with a woman. The incident was captured on CCTV and took place around 7:10pm on Wednesday. The man, known only as Tao, was arrested by police at 7:30pm the following day. Despite his apologies, he is facing charges. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326983-dispute-over-durian-fruit-escalates-into-armed-confrontation/

A man was arrested in Samut Prakan after pulling a gun at a durian fruit stand, following an argument with a woman. The incident was captured on CCTV and took place around 7:10pm on Wednesday. The man, known only as Tao, was arrested by police at 7:30pm the following day. Despite his apologies, he is facing charges. Tao, after an earlier argument with a woman, confronted the fruit stand's owner, Sirin Thip, and her family while brandishing a pistol. He asked her why she was looking at him, intimidating her, her sister, her brother-in-law, and her three children. Thip, 36, said her family had merely been observing a commotion across the street when the confrontation occurred. A nearby vendor witnessed the incident and intervened, prompting Tao and his companion to leave the scene on a motorcycle. Thip noted that she had seen the pair at her stall before and that they had even enjoyed her durians, making their unwarranted hostility even more surprising. Fearing for her children's safety and her business, she reported the event to local law enforcement. Anuwat, 37, a bystander at the scene, expressed his shock and fear as he had no previous conflicts with the perpetrator. Police found Tao at his home, where they seized an air gun as evidence. During a later meeting with the victims, Tao expressed his regret and promised not to repeat his behaviour. Regardless, he has been charged with making threats that caused alarm or fear. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Deputy PM sets sights on taking down influential figures in Phuket Photo courtesy of The Thaiger The Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister of Thailand, Anutin Charnvirakul, has launched a campaign to curb the influence of powerful Thai and foreign figures in Phuket. The announcement of this initiative was made to 550 officers at the Phuket Provincial Police Station, targeting criminal networks backed by these influential figures. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326982-deputy-pm-sets-sights-on-taking-down-influential-figures-in-phuket/

The Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister of Thailand, Anutin Charnvirakul, has launched a campaign to curb the influence of powerful Thai and foreign figures in Phuket. The announcement of this initiative was made to 550 officers at the Phuket Provincial Police Station, targeting criminal networks backed by these influential figures. The campaign's main goal is to tackle various criminal activities in the region. Special attention will be given to drug trafficking, illegal gambling, human trafficking, and environmental degradation, while also ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and tourists. Anutin emphasized the urgency of the situation and proposed a strategy involving the creation of special task forces at the provincial and district levels. These forces will include administrative officials, military personnel, and law enforcement officers. Among those present at the announcement were Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat and representatives from national law-enforcement agencies. Anutin was joined by Deputy Interior Minister Chada Thaiset and several high-ranking officials from various departments. The local delegation from Phuket was led by the Provincial Police Commander, Police Major General Sinlert Sukhum, along with local government agencies, police officers, and members of the Volunteer Defense Corps (OrSor). Anutin, as the Interior Minister, also showcased his OrSor uniform, complete with the official insignia of the White Elephant, as he serves as the commander of the OrSor nationwide. Anutin stressed that the main goal is to improve security and order in Phuket. The campaign will focus on establishing social order and targeting influential figures while suppressing criminal activities. This government initiative is under the direction of Prime Minister Settha Thavisin. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Over 4,000 meth pills seized in numerous drug raids in Phuket Photo courtesy of The Thaiger The Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand, Anutin Charnvirakul, was greeted with news of a major anti-drug sting operation in Phuket on his visit to the city. Local law enforcement agencies shared that their raids had led to the confiscation of over 4,000 methamphetamine pills, commonly referred to as Yaba. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326981-over-4000-meth-pills-seized-in-numerous-drug-raids-in-phuket/

The Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand, Anutin Charnvirakul, was greeted with news of a major anti-drug sting operation in Phuket on his visit to the city. Local law enforcement agencies shared that their raids had led to the confiscation of over 4,000 methamphetamine pills, commonly referred to as Yaba. One of the significant operations carried out by the Phuket City Police resulted in the breaking up of a major drug network which ended in the arrest of nine people. Among those arrested were Kanokporn Khankaew, 24, from Nakhon Sawan province, Atchara Nutapong, 20, from Wichit, and an underage girl of 17 from Nong Khai. They were caught at a house in Soi Sukato 2, Phuket Garden Ville housing estate, located near Phuket Rajabhat University. The trio was found with 202 meth pills and 0.5 grammes of crystal meth, also referred to as ya ice. Along with these illicit substances, the police confiscated three mobile phones, drug-related equipment, and digital scales. The threesome were then charged with the illegal possession of a Category 1 narcotic for the purpose of selling and for participating in illegal online gambling. In the surrounding area, Wutthichai Naksri, 29, and Suwanna Koisin, 37, were also apprehended when found with 102 meth pills. Both were charged with the illegal distribution of a Category 1 narcotic, while an additional charge was brought against Wutthichai for driving while under the influence. An additional group comprising of Udomsak Chusit, 24, Warawut Phiman, 22, and Tharathep Saengnak, 20, were arrested at a rented accommodation in Soi Bunlert, Chalong. They were found with 391 meth pills and 10.14 grammes of ya ice and were charged with illegal possession and usage of Category 1 narcotics. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Community helps local vendor after motorcycle theft Photo courtesy of The Thaiger A video posted on Facebook by Benz Niratchai showed a community effort to halt a motorcycle thief in the Lat Phrao 64 area of Bangkok. The thief had stolen a red and white Wave 110 motorcycle from Duang, a local grilled pork seller. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326980-community-helps-local-vendor-after-motorcycle-theft/

A video posted on Facebook by Benz Niratchai showed a community effort to halt a motorcycle thief in the Lat Phrao 64 area of Bangkok. The thief had stolen a red and white Wave 110 motorcycle from Duang, a local grilled pork seller. Duang shared the details of the incident online. She stated that the theft happened at around 5 am on May 8, two days prior to her post. Duang was preparing her pork stall for the day when she went to get a lighter from under her motorbike's seat, accidentally leaving the keys in the ignition. She noticed two teenagers opposite her stall and heard one say, "I'll go get it." Thinking they were potential customers, she was startled to see them cross the road, start her motorcycle, and speed away. A delivery rider who was passing by heard Duang's cries for help and began chasing the thieves, capturing a video of the incident in the process. Despite their best efforts, the pursuit ended when the criminals disappeared near Nawamin along the Lat Phrao Road. Local police from Wang Thonglang station warned Duang that it could be tough to apprehend the culprits due to factors such as the high-speed chase, limited CCTV coverage in the area, and the likelihood of the thieves' vehicle having fake plates. In addition to her stolen bike, Duang lost her mobile phone, cash, and personal documents like her ID and driver's license, which were kept in the motorcycle. The theft was particularly disheartening for Duang. She sells grilled pork skewers for only 10 baht each, and the loss makes her monthly 3,300 baht installment for the motorcycle even harder to meet. She was especially near to clearing the debt, with only seven payments remaining. Duang made an appeal for anyone who may come across her black and red Honda Wave 125i with the license plate 4ขห 8379 Bangkok to report it to the authorities. Photo courtesy of The Thaiger -- 2024-05-10 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe