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Police summoned a Thai man to answer a legal charge of sexually abusing two disabled sisters over two years while the victims worked as maids at his home in the central province of Singburi. The girls’ 31 year old mother, Dao, turned to Channel 7 for help after her two daughters were raped revealing the rapist’s lawyer threatened her not to take legal action against him. Dao explained that the lawyer came to her home and told Dao’s family that they could not do anything about the case because they had no evidence. Dao revealed that she had four children, two boys and two girls. Her daughters, 15 year old Fah and 14 year old Fon, had disabilities and only Fon managed to go to school. Due to their financial difficulties, Fah and Fon had to work to support the family. Dao revealed that she worked as a maid at the house of the 67 year old man named Waen. She thought Waen was a kind and good person, so she allowed her two daughters to work for Waen at his home. The mother noticed suspicious behaviour in her daughter in April of this year. The two girls usually fought each other and often made excuses to avoid going to Waen’s home. Dao asked the girls whether they had any problems with Waen but they remained silent. Dao said she had to threaten to beat them up for them to reveal the truth. Fah revealed that Waen raped her and took photos of her naked. He threatened her not to reveal the incident to anyone. If they did he said he would kill her parents. Promise to surrender Fon later fell victim to the same rapist. She witnessed the sexual assault against Fah and tried to stay away from Waen without success. Dao shared that Waen initially denied the accusation and insulted her after realising that she reported the matter to the police. Even while insisting on his innocence, Waen attempted to end the matter by offering 50,000 baht in cash and three motorcycles to the family but they rejected them. With the cooperation of the media, Bang Rachan Police Station officers raided Waen’s home yesterday, October 16, at about 11.30am, but he was not present. His family initially refused to let police enter but finally had to comply with the law. The family member claimed that Waen went to a hospital in Bangkok for treatment of his chronic kidney disease. Waen later communicated with the police via a phone call and promised to turn himself in after the treatment. A police spokesperson revealed officers would wait for the alleged rapist’s surrender. If Waen failed to keep his word, officers would issue an arrest warrant against him. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Siam Eagle Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-17

2 Thai cops suspended after South Korean livestreams from cell - video Photo via Facebook/ Sattahip online-ข่าวสัตหีบออนไลน์ Two Thai police officers in Chon Buri province are under investigation after a South Korean drug suspect livestreamed himself during his detention, claiming he had special privileges because he paid the officers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340973-2-thai-cops-suspended-after-south-korean-livestreams-from-cell-video/

Two Thai police officers in Chon Buri province are under investigation after a South Korean drug suspect livestreamed himself during his detention, claiming he had special privileges because he paid the officers. The alleged corruption at Bang Lamung Police Station in Chon Buri was exposed after South Korean news agency Maeil Business Newspaper reported the incident on Tuesday, October 15. The report revealed that the suspect, 44 year old Seo Jungnam, was able to freely livestream from both the police transport truck and inside the cell. Jungnam is wanted by South Korean authorities after smuggling drugs from Thailand to South Korea in December last year. The drugs were concealed in coffee boxes and bean bags. He fled to Thailand, where he started a YouTube channel, referring to himself as “Thailand’s richest man.” South Korean officials later coordinated with the Thai Immigration Bureau, leading to Jungnam’s arrest at a hotel in Chon Buri on October 3. He was also found to have overstayed his visa by 373 days. Jungnam was detained at Bang Lamung Police Station while awaiting further legal proceedings. On October 14, officers were transporting Jungnam to Bangkok in a prison truck. During the journey, he livestreamed himself smoking and chatting with his followers. “I came all the way to Thailand and was sentenced to prison. Thanks to those who support me so much, I feel more confident.” Jungnam then showed viewers the scenery outside the truck and joked that he wanted to escape because of the beautiful sea in the province. In another livestream, while being held with other detainees, Jungnam introduced an inmate. “This is a kid who stabbed five people.” Police deny bribery At one point in the livestream, Jungnam claimed no police officer refused his money, and after paying them, he was free to move around with his phone in hand. He even boasted about being imprisoned in other countries, including the Philippines, and expressed an interest in visiting prisons in Vietnam or China. The livestreams sparked outrage among Thai netizens, with many demanding an explanation from the authorities. In response, on October 16, Superintendent Naphatpong Kisitsuriyamanee of the Chon Buri Provincial Immigration Office provided a clarification. Naphatpong explained that while immigration police arrested the South Korean man, they did not have detention facilities, so Jungnam was held at Bang Lamung Police Station instead. Jungnam will be penalised for overstaying his visa in Thailand before being deported to South Korea. For the overstay, he was fined 3,000 baht, and a deportation order was issued. Naphatpong also confirmed that the livestream occurred while Jungnam was being transported to a police office in Bangkok. He insisted that officers at Bang Lamung Police Station did not take the bribe and thoroughly searched Jungnam before allowing him to board the prison truck but failed to find the mobile phone. Naphatpong admitted that the incident was a result of police and confirmed that an investigation into the alleged bribery and misconduct would be conducted. The two officers responsible for supervising Jungnam on the day are temporarily suspended. If found guilty, they will face appropriate disciplinary action. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Sattahip online-ข่าวสัตหีบออนไลน์ Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-17

Bangkok bombshell: Chilling find at iCon Group office turns heads Photo via ThaiRath Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) officers dashed to the scene this afternoon after a resident made a chilling discovery at the iCon Group office in Soi Ramintra 9, Bang Khen district, Bangkok. What first appeared to be a hazardous bomb left locals trembling in shock but turned out to be a well-crafted fake. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340972-bangkok-bombshell-chilling-find-at-icon-group-office-turns-heads/

Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) officers dashed to the scene this afternoon after a resident made a chilling discovery at the iCon Group office in Soi Ramintra 9, Bang Khen district, Bangkok. What first appeared to be a hazardous bomb left locals trembling in shock but turned out to be a well-crafted fake. The bomb packed ominously in a black briefcase, was found at a security guard’s shelter. Inside, two sticks were wrapped in brown paper and linked with electric wires, each stick measuring about 10 inches long. This convincing device quickly set alarm bells ringing, prompting a swift response from both Bang Khen police and EOD officers. According to the security guards, the object had been placed at the location for three days. However, no one had dared to check on it. The guards did not see the suspicious person who left the object in that spot. EOD officers cordoned off the area for the safety of residents and began to disable the bomb. Fortunately, the officers determined that it was merely a fake explosive. The device was made of PVC pipes wrapped in brown paper and contained no circuits. Police planned to review security camera footage from the office and surrounding areas to identify the person responsible for this incident. It is believed that the fake bomb was placed at the scene following the scandal and Ponzi scheme accusations made against the company. Some people who lost money in the company’s investments might have intended to prank and spread panic among the company’s employees. Following recent updates on the case, 18 key members of the company, including the CEO and three well-known celebrities, were arrested yesterday, October 16. They were questioned regarding accusations of fraud and Ponzi scheme operations, all of which the suspects denied. Shocking revelations from multiple victims and former members have exposed iCon Group Group’s dodgy business model, which appears to mirror a Ponzi scheme. Many investors lost their life savings, with some even driven to suicide by the unbearable stress of their financial ruin. By Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-17

Thailand’s industrial confidence dips as floods hit economy Photo courtesy of Pattaya News Thailand’s Industrial Confidence Index dropped to 87.1 in September, down from 87.7 in August, announced Nava Chantanasurakon, Vice Chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). The decline is primarily due to severe flooding across northern, northeastern, and central regions, impacting homes, agricultural areas, industries, and tourism, with economic losses estimated between 30 and 50 billion baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340971-thailand’s-industrial-confidence-dips-as-floods-hit-economy/

Thailand’s Industrial Confidence Index dropped to 87.1 in September, down from 87.7 in August, announced Nava Chantanasurakon, Vice Chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). The decline is primarily due to severe flooding across northern, northeastern, and central regions, impacting homes, agricultural areas, industries, and tourism, with economic losses estimated between 30 and 50 billion baht. The widespread flooding significantly disrupted various sectors. Nava noted that the weakened domestic purchasing power, driven by high household debt, further dampened sales of durable goods. Car sales plummeted by 24% while motorcycle sales declined by 11% in the first eight months of 2024. Delays in government spending on public projects added to the challenges faced by the manufacturing sector. Additionally, cheap Chinese imports and a rapidly appreciating baht (US$1 = 33.25 baht as of press time) have intensified the pressure on the sector. Despite these challenges, the tourism sector continues to provide a significant boost to the economy. Thailand welcomed 26,005,295 international tourists between January 1 and yesterday, October 16, marking a 30% increase compared to the previous year. This influx generated a total revenue of 1.21 trillion baht. Key markets contributing to this growth include China, the United States, ASEAN, Europe, India, and the Middle East. “Tourism is expected to remain a key driver of economic growth, helping to offset some of the industrial sector’s downturn.” Additionally, the government’s 10,000-baht cash rollout programme for 14.5 million welfare cardholders and disabled individuals at the end of September provided a temporary boost to domestic consumption, particularly for consumer goods. The combination of these factors paints a complex picture of Thailand’s economic landscape, with significant challenges in the industrial sector counterbalanced by robust growth in tourism and temporary government measures to stimulate domestic consumption, reported Pattaya News. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-17

Thailand unveils 110 billion baht economic recovery plan Picture courtesy of Chanat Katanyu Thailand’s government rolled out a comprehensive economic recovery initiative, aiming to inject up to 110 billion baht into the economy by supporting small businesses through collaborations with major corporations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340970-thailand-unveils-110-billion-baht-economic-recovery-plan/

Thailand’s government rolled out a comprehensive economic recovery initiative, aiming to inject up to 110 billion baht into the economy by supporting small businesses through collaborations with major corporations. This campaign, running from September to January, encompasses three main strategies: reducing expenses, generating income, and creating opportunities. The focus is primarily on small operators, who constitute 90% of the country’s businesses and form the backbone of the economy. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, speaking at the launch event yesterday, October 16, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to revitalising economic activity. Last month’s 10,000-baht (US$300) cash handout was highlighted as a crucial measure to enhance consumer spending and foster business opportunities. “The government expects the initiative to stimulate the economy by as much as 110 billion baht (US$3.3 billion),” Paetongtarn stated, emphasising the vital role of the public sector in driving this policy while the private sector aids its execution. To cut costs, the government has partnered with state agencies and businesses to lower rental fees for operators leasing space from state agencies and participating companies. In Bangkok, 12 market operators collaborating with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration have agreed to halve rental fees for approximately 11,000 vendors until the end of this year. Additionally, the Commerce Ministry and other state agencies will waive rental fees for over 3,000 vendors. Thailand Post and its partners are also set to reduce transport costs, recognising rental fees and transport as significant business expenses. Economic recovery The 38 year old Thai premier indicated plans to increase marketplaces for small operators, with the Defence and Interior Ministries converting areas at military bases and provincial halls into markets. This initiative aims to create over 1,300 marketplaces nationwide. The government is also working with major manufacturers and wholesalers to lower consumer goods prices and organise discount events. Over 130 operators with more than 100,000 branches are participating in this scheme. The prime minister assured that both short-term and long-term plans are in the pipeline to bolster the economy further. The launch saw the involvement of Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan, Deputy Commerce Minister Suchart Chomklin, and private sector representatives from CP Group, The Mall Group, BJC, Big C, PT, PTT Oil and Retail Business Plc, Sea Value, Thai Union, and OSOTSPA. Commerce Minister Pichai highlighted that the economic recovery campaign aligns with the premier’s strategy to rejuvenate the economy following significant investments in various sectors. Last year, electronic circuit board investments totalled 150 billion baht (US$4.5 billion), while this year saw 160 billion baht (US$4.8 billion) in data centre investments, excluding 30 billion baht (US$902 million) from Google and another 30 billion baht from the UAE. Pichai also noted that Paetongtarn’s recent visits to Qatar and Laos attracted investment interests in various sectors, including food security. The projected 110-billion-baht economic boost is expected to derive from three main sources. Increased spending among vulnerable groups who received the 10,000 baht cash handout is set to contribute 78.7 billion baht (US$2.4 billion), with an estimated 54% of the handout being spent on discounted items under the economic recovery project. An additional 18.7 billion baht (US$562 million) is anticipated from reducing business costs and creating opportunities for small operators through festivals and special activities designed to stimulate spending. The remaining 14.4 billion baht (US$433 million) is projected to come from sales events at department stores, retail and wholesale outlets, and price discounts from manufacturers, reported Bangkok Post. Meanwhile, KKP Research has revised its economic forecast for 2024, raising the GDP projection from 2.6% to 2.8%, and for 2025, from 2.8% to 3.0%. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Chanat Katanyu Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-17

Don Mueang Tollway Sees Boost in Traffic & Growth Amidst Tourism Surge File photo for reference only The Don Mueang Tollway Public Company Limited (DMT) is forecasting a strong performance this year as tourism surges, particularly during the high season in the fourth quarter. The company's optimistic outlook is fuelled by the relocation of Thai AirAsia X flights back to Don Mueang Airport from October 1, aligning with government plans to position Thailand as a regional aviation hub. This strategic move is anticipated to significantly boost traffic on the tollway, contributing to revenue growth. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340883-don-mueang-tollway-sees-boost-in-traffic-growth-amidst-tourism-surge/

The Don Mueang Tollway Public Company Limited (DMT) is forecasting a strong performance this year as tourism surges, particularly during the high season in the fourth quarter. The company's optimistic outlook is fuelled by the relocation of Thai AirAsia X flights back to Don Mueang Airport from October 1, aligning with government plans to position Thailand as a regional aviation hub. This strategic move is anticipated to significantly boost traffic on the tollway, contributing to revenue growth. Managing Director Sakda Phanwai highlighted a positive trend in the company's Q3 results, citing increased traffic volumes on the tollway. This uptick is largely due to governmental tourism stimulus efforts, which have successfully attracted a higher number of tourists compared to previous years. With international airlines resuming operations at Terminal 1 of Don Mueang Airport, an essential travel junction within Thailand, the tollway has seen heightened usage. Anticipation for Q4 remains high as AirAsia's relocation is expected to further facilitate this growth. Sakda confidently projected an average daily traffic volume of at least 116,000 vehicles in 2024, up from 106,907 vehicles in 2023. In addition to immediate gains, DMT is pursuing long-term growth strategies, including bids for major infrastructure projects like the M82 and M5 motorways, set for bidding in late 2024 and 2025. The company is also focusing on ESG initiatives, integrating renewable energy efforts and sustainable practices to not only benefit the environment but also to enhance profitability. Energy-saving equipment, alongside eco-friendly materials for maintenance, are part of DMT’s ongoing efficiency improvements. For the first half of 2024, DMT reported a net profit increase to 505.69 million baht, partly due to rising traffic volumes. In line with this growth, the company has dispensed an interim dividend of 0.42 baht per share. With such strategic moves and government alignment, DMT is poised for continued success amidst the tourism boom. File photo for reference only Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-16

Foreign man’s tattoo blunder: ‘Love, peace, and curry’ Photo by thirstyfridays via Reddit A foreign man sparked a social media frenzy after showing off his new Thai tattoo, only for eagle-eyed netizens to point out a major mix-up. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340882-foreign-man’s-tattoo-blunder-‘love-peace-and-curry’/

Pattaya Council Plans Traffic Overhaul with One-Way Streets, Odd-Even Parking File photo for reference only In an effort to tackle traffic congestion, the Governance and Order Committee of Pattaya City Council, led by Anupong Puttanawarat, convened for the fourth time this year on 15th October. The focus was squarely on reorganising city traffic, introducing one-way street systems and regulating parking through an even-odd day scheme—a decision that affects major traffic spots like Lan Pho Market, Old Market, New Market, and Soi Post Office. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340881-pattaya-council-plans-traffic-overhaul-with-one-way-streets-odd-even-parking/

In an effort to tackle traffic congestion, the Governance and Order Committee of Pattaya City Council, led by Anupong Puttanawarat, convened for the fourth time this year on 15th October. The focus was squarely on reorganising city traffic, introducing one-way street systems and regulating parking through an even-odd day scheme—a decision that affects major traffic spots like Lan Pho Market, Old Market, New Market, and Soi Post Office. The committee laid out plans for new traffic signs with clear colour indicators—white, red, and yellow zones—to delineate parking permissions and restrictions. By implementing such measures, they aim to reduce traffic bottlenecks and improve road safety for residents and tourists alike. A consensus was reached on trialing the new traffic regulations, including penalties for breaches, with an on-site inspection scheduled for 21st October, to verify practical applications of these initiatives. This inspection intends to ensure the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed traffic management solutions. Additionally, the discussions ventured into plans for the forthcoming 2024 parking regulation ordinance. To efficiently roll out these changes, the Operations Division of the City Council has been directed to liaise with departments such as Traffic and Transport, City Administration, Revenue Development, and the Tourism and Sports Department. Their collective endeavour is aimed at raising public awareness and securing adherence to the new systems. This coordinated effort reflects Pattaya’s commitment to enhancing urban mobility while accommodating its bustling tourist activity. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-16

Bangkok Police Nab Gun-Wielding Man in Drug-Fuelled Standoff File photo for reference only In a dramatic midday standoff, Bangkok police stormed a residence in the Pom Prap Sattru Phai district to arrest 33-year-old Sombat from Chumphon, who was firing a gun erratically from his apartment. This tense confrontation unfolded yesterday after a vigilant neighbour tipped off the authorities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340879-bangkok-police-nab-gun-wielding-man-in-drug-fuelled-standoff/

In a dramatic midday standoff, Bangkok police stormed a residence in the Pom Prap Sattru Phai district to arrest 33-year-old Sombat from Chumphon, who was firing a gun erratically from his apartment. This tense confrontation unfolded yesterday after a vigilant neighbour tipped off the authorities. Sombat faces serious charges, including possessing an unlicensed firearm, discharging a weapon in a public area, and possessing and using the illegal drug methamphetamine. Led by Police Colonel Samart Phromchat, officers confiscated a homemade .38mm handgun, additional ammo, and small quantities of meth. The arrest was anything but straightforward. Upon arrival, police found Sombat loudly disrupting the peace from his balcony, brandishing a firearm. Attempts to de-escalate the situation failed when he fired a shot, forcing police intervention. Breaking into the apartment, aided by building management, they managed to subdue and arrest Sombat. During the search, police uncovered meth concealed in Sombat's clothing. A urine test later confirmed meth usage, results corroborated by further hospital testing. Now, Sombat is in the hands of investigators at Phlapphla Chai 2 Police Station, confronting multiple charges. Authorities applaud the public’s role in reporting suspicious activity, reinforcing the importance of community involvement in maintaining safety and the weighty repercussions of drug use and illegal firearm possession. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-16

Thailand Cuts Interest Rate to 2.25% Amid Economic Pressure In a pivotal move, the Bank of Thailand's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has slashed the key policy rate by 25 basis points, bringing it down to 2.25% effective immediately. This marks the first reduction since May 2020, reversing an increase to 2.5% just last September. The decision, backed by a 5:2 vote, arrives as Thailand grapples with escalating demands from both the government and private sectors to lessen borrowing costs and invigorate a sluggish economy. MPC director Sakkapop Panyanukul explained that the majority of the committee believes this reduction will help alleviate debt burdens while still aligning with the country's aim of keeping household debt manageable amidst slow credit growth. The cut is deemed compatible with the economic potential, reflecting a cautious optimism for future growth. However, the vote was not unanimous. Two members argued that maintaining a 2.5% rate better corresponds with current economic conditions and projected inflation, suggesting it would provide a buffer against uncertain economic challenges ahead. Looking forward, Thailand's economy is expected to expand at modest rates of 2.7% this year and 2.9% next year. Growth is predominantly fuelled by tourism and increased domestic consumption, with a boost anticipated from government stimulus measures and robust export performance, especially in electronics. Inflation forecasts suggest rates of 0.5% this year and 1.2% next year, with a potential rise in food and energy prices looming. Meanwhile, the central bank is encouraging financial institutions to support debtors through refinancing, aiming to ease financial pressures locally. This bold rate cut underscores the urgent need to stimulate economic activity, amid a landscape of cautious optimism mixed with lingering uncertainties. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-16

German man found dead in Patong hotel after fever and dizziness Photo courtesy of Phuket News A German man was found dead in his hotel room in Patong today after experiencing fever and dizziness. The incident prompted police to request a medical examination to determine the cause of death. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340877-german-man-found-dead-in-patong-hotel-after-fever-and-dizziness/

A German man was found dead in his hotel room in Patong today after experiencing fever and dizziness. The incident prompted police to request a medical examination to determine the cause of death. Patong police were alerted to the situation at approximately 6am, today, October 16, and arrived at the hotel on Phra Mettha Road. Upon investigation, officers found no signs of a struggle in the room. A nurse, hired to care for the 66 year old German man, informed the police that he had been suffering from a urinary tract infection and had been bedridden for several months. She reported that around 5.30am, the man developed a fever and experienced dizziness. Despite her attempts to alleviate his discomfort by wiping his body, his condition deteriorated, and he passed away. Police have taken the man’s body to Patong Hospital where doctors will perform a thorough post-mortem examination to ascertain the exact cause of death. Representatives from the German embassy have been notified of the man’s passing. The Phuket News is withholding the deceased man’s name until his next of kin have been informed. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-16

Chon Buri: Late-night beach vandalism caught on camera Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail In a shocking display of vandalism, a man was caught on video smashing a padlock at Yinyom Beach with a hammer, leaving residents in disbelief. The incident occurred late last night, October 15, in the Jomtien area off Thappraya Road, and was captured by a vigilant resident. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340876-chon-buri-late-night-beach-vandalism-caught-on-camera/

In a shocking display of vandalism, a man was caught on video smashing a padlock at Yinyom Beach with a hammer, leaving residents in disbelief. The incident occurred late last night, October 15, in the Jomtien area off Thappraya Road, and was captured by a vigilant resident. Pattaya City officers responded swiftly to the scene, finding minimal damage to the barrier, which is typically locked from 9pm to 6am to deter vehicle access, particularly aimed at preventing groups of fishermen from frequenting the area during these hours. The incident raised serious concerns, prompting Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet to take immediate action. He has ordered a thorough investigation. “We will review the CCTV footage to identify the individual responsible for this reckless act.” Legal action is expected to follow against the vandal for damaging government property, reported Pattaya Mail. Mayor Poramet reminded the public of the serious repercussions of such actions. “Vandalising public property is a criminal offence under Section 358 of the Criminal Code, which can lead to up to three years in prison, a fine of up to 6,000 baht, or both.” By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-16

Vocational student brawl disrupts Bangkok train commuters - video Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Panic erupted on a crowded train this morning when a group of young vocational students were involved in a wild brawl, sending Bangkok commuters scrambling for safety at Siam BTS. The chaotic scene unfolded around 8.30am, today, October 16, with Police swooping in to detain the troublemakers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340875-vocational-student-brawl-disrupts-bangkok-train-commuters-video/

Panic erupted on a crowded train this morning when a group of young vocational students were involved in a wild brawl, sending Bangkok commuters scrambling for safety at Siam BTS. The chaotic scene unfolded around 8.30am, today, October 16, with Police swooping in to detain the troublemakers. Videos circulating online show more than ten boys, believed to be vocational students, trading blows just moments before Thai police intervened. Eyewitnesses say the mayhem kicked off as passengers were transferring trains, leading to a frenzy of activity. One shocked witness recounted the moment they opened the train door, only to be met by a police officer desperately trying to separate the fighting students. The situation quickly escalated, with students scattering in every direction while passengers sought refuge from the chaos. Footage captured by a fellow commuter reveals the dramatic scene, highlighting the struggles of a lone officer attempting to bring order to the turmoil. All of this occurred while regular train services continued, creating a perilous atmosphere for unsuspecting travellers, said a witness. “I was just about to change trains. As soon as I opened the door, I saw an officer trying to arrest someone. I didn’t think much of it until I went down the escalator and saw the fight happening, just like in the video. It was chaotic, and the police hadn’t managed to catch the perpetrators yet. People waiting for the BTS were standing aside, trying to avoid the commotion.” Eventually, additional police officers arrived and managed to detain the students, making them lie flat on the ground. The head of the Pathumwan Police Station mentioned that they are currently investigating the incident further. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-16

Climate Activists Rally at UN Bangkok Against Corporate Greenwashing File photo for reference only Over 200 climate activists gathered at the United Nations Headquarters in Bangkok yesterday, rallying against climate change laws they claim favour big businesses. Titled “System Change Not Climate Crisis”, the protest aimed to influence the Thai government ahead of the upcoming COP29 conference in Azerbaijan this November. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340873-climate-activists-rally-at-un-bangkok-against-corporate-greenwashing/

Over 200 climate activists gathered at the United Nations Headquarters in Bangkok yesterday, rallying against climate change laws they claim favour big businesses. Titled “System Change Not Climate Crisis”, the protest aimed to influence the Thai government ahead of the upcoming COP29 conference in Azerbaijan this November. The demonstration included a seminar on climate justice and the pitfalls of the current carbon credit system. Activists argue that these regulations enable corporations to exploit natural resources to their benefit, demanding policy changes to safeguard the environment. An open letter was submitted to the UNFCCC, calling for the Thai government to stop its greenwashing practices. This was emphasised by Greenpeace Thailand hanging a large banner reading “People Before Profit” on the Natural Resource and Environment Ministry’s building. Their letter outlined demands such as scrapping the 20-year national strategic plan, ending carbon trading laws, dissolving the Thailand Greenhouse Gas Management Organisation, and introducing strict penalties for industries failing to reduce carbon emissions. Activists urged a shifting focus towards genuine environmental protection and community empowerment, hoping to inspire substantive change. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-16