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A Chinese woman fled fraud charges in China, where she caused a loss of 8 million baht, and escaped to Thailand, undergoing cosmetic surgery to hide her identity. A local Thai became suspicious of a foreign woman living in a luxury condominium in the Rama IV neighbourhood of Bangkok and reported her concerns to the Immigration Bureau. The woman reportedly wore a hat and face mask every time she left her condo. Police closely monitored the foreigner and observed her leaving her room to collect food from the lobby. Officers then approached her and asked to check her documents. The woman was later identified as a 30 year old Chinese national named Jing Qu. Upon reviewing her data, officers found that she arrived in Thailand in 2022 and was permitted to stay for only 15 days as a tourist. However, Jing overstayed her visa by 650 days, nearly two years, while hiding in the luxury condo. When questioned about the overstay, she refused to answer and changed the subject. According to the police, Jing claimed that she worked as a cabin crew member for a well-known airline but was unexpectedly terminated. However, officers doubted her claim due to the type of visa she had. Further investigation into Jing’s criminal history revealed that she was wanted by Interpol, with her name appearing on a blue warrant. Officers contacted Chinese authorities for details of her criminal activity. Chinese officials reported that Jing was a suspect in a fraud case under investigation between 2016 and 2019. Jing allegedly tricked six victims into paying her between 1.5 and 7.5 million yuan each to secure positions as cabin crew members with a prominent airline. She fled the charges, using the funds for cosmetic surgery and her escape to Thailand. The Thai police did not clarify the legal punishment Jing would face for overstaying her visa in Thailand. It is believed that she will be punished in Thailand before being extradited to China for legal proceedings. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-07

Investigation launched into police supercar escort on M6 motorway Image courtesy of Prasit Tangprasert/Bangkok Post The head of the Central Investigation Bureau called for an inquiry into motorway police impeding regular traffic to expedite the journey of a billion-baht convoy of luxury vehicles and supercars along an inter-city motorway. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340028-supercar-convoy-causes-major-delays-on-m6-motorway-video/?do=findComment&comment=19288817

Investigation launched into police supercar escort on M6 motorway The head of the Central Investigation Bureau called for an inquiry into motorway police impeding regular traffic to expedite the journey of a billion-baht convoy of luxury vehicles and supercars along an inter-city motorway. Today, October 7, Police Lieutenant General Jirabhop Bhuridej announced that he had instructed Motorway Police to look into grievances from motorists. These complaints alleged that police motorcyclists had cleared the path for a fleet of luxury cars on the M6 motorway from Ayutthaya to Nakhon Ratchasima on Saturday. The commissioner stated that the officers in question would face consequences if they were found to have acted improperly. Reports suggest that the luxury car convoy was en route to Nakhon Ratchasima to feature as a main attraction at a vegetarian and cultural event in the area. An unnamed source revealed that motorway police escorted the convoy without prior notification to their superiors. In Nakhon Ratchasima on Saturday evening, 45 luxury cars valued at approximately 1.5 billion baht were exhibited at the vegetarian fair near the Thao Suranari Monument in Mueang district. The fair commenced on Friday and concluded on Sunday night. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Prasit Tangprasert/Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-07

Thai cop accused of stealing 30,000 baht in mediation case File photo for reference only The Acting Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police, Police General Kittirat Panpetch, has ordered a probe into claims that a local police officer embezzled money from a mediated debt settlement. A 34-year-old woman alleges that the officer from Samrong Tai Police Station took 30,000 baht that was part of a debt repayment plan. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340085-thai-cop-accused-of-stealing-30000-baht-in-mediation-case/

The Acting Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police, Police General Kittirat Panpetch, has ordered a probe into claims that a local police officer embezzled money from a mediated debt settlement. A 34-year-old woman alleges that the officer from Samrong Tai Police Station took 30,000 baht that was part of a debt repayment plan. Under this plan, the debtor was supposed to pay back the money in installments, supervised by the police. The officer was to be paid a 10% commission from each installment. But the woman claims the officer surreptitiously took all the money. Frustrated and unable to get in touch with the officer, the woman reached out to advocacy groups for help in retrieving her money. On October 6, Kittirat addressed the issue at the Royal Thai Police headquarters. He has tasked Police Major General Wichit Boonchinwutikul, commander of Samut Prakan Provincial Police, with conducting an in-depth investigation into the matter. The officer could face strict disciplinary measures, criminal charges, and even jail time if the allegations prove to be true. Kittirat stressed the need to uphold public confidence in the police force, using this incident as an example. This issue has spotlighted the crucial role advocacy groups play in highlighting corruption issues and helping victims get justice. They are instrumental in ensuring corrupt officials are held to account and that citizens' concerns are acknowledged. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-07

Phuket Police Take Action Against Illegal Street Racers File photo for reference only Early this morning, city police in Phuket targeted an unlawful street racing hotspot in the Saphan Hin district, confiscating five motorcycles. The crackdown took place after officers noted discussions about the underground street racing scene on local social media at 12.45am today, October 7. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340084-phuket-police-take-action-against-illegal-street-racers/

Early this morning, city police in Phuket targeted an unlawful street racing hotspot in the Saphan Hin district, confiscating five motorcycles. The crackdown took place after officers noted discussions about the underground street racing scene on local social media at 12.45am today, October 7. Quick police action resulted in the arrests of five individuals, believed to be daring young people, and the seizure of their bikes. The law enforcement officers have refrained from revealing the identities of those arrested. "We have noted down the offenders' information and are deliberating on further legal action," stated a police spokesperson. As part of their efforts to halt illegal racing and ensure public safety, the authorities are intensifying their operations. The public has been asked to report any suspected racing activities. Meanwhile, in Hat Yai, a late-night operation led to the detention of a motorcycle racing gang. Police seized 35 motorcycles and arrested 40 young people for profiling and training. Authorities have also warned sternly against any future meetups. Under the leadership of Police Colonel Phum Banthip, Deputy Police Superintendent Adinan Wongmatthong, and Police Lieutenant Colonel Thatchanon Kaewchan, the Hat Yai police conducted an effective crackdown on a group of teenagers known for illegal motorcycle races. These meetups, which recently took place from yesterday, September 7 to this morning, caused significant disturbances to local residents. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-07

Thailand gears up amid US-China tensions to boost local economy File photo for reference only As the economic strife between the United States and China continue, Thailand has surprisingly emerged as an unexpected winner on the global front. The Southeast Asian country is preparing to become a significant player in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, which could potentially change the automotive scenario not just regionally, but globally as well. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340083-thailand-gears-up-amid-us-china-tensions-to-boost-local-economy/

As the economic strife between the United States and China continue, Thailand has surprisingly emerged as an unexpected winner on the global front. The Southeast Asian country is preparing to become a significant player in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, which could potentially change the automotive scenario not just regionally, but globally as well. This news was revealed during the 4th Sweden-Thailand Sustainable Development Forum, a key event of the Sustainability Expo 2024 held in Bangkok. Taking place from late September to early October, the forum gathered a diverse group of experts and diplomats to discuss urgent environmental problems. The expo’s theme, "Good Balance, Better World," highlighted a key point: being sustainable and profitable can go hand in hand. The ongoing trade dispute between the world's economic giants has unintentionally created an opportunity for Thailand and its neighbouring countries. Industry experts, including Volvo Car Thailand’s Managing Director Chris Wailes and Siamnat Panassorn from the Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand, see these geopolitical challenges as possible stepping stones for the Thai EV industry. Thailand's well-established automobile industry serves as a firm base for this possible transformation. With a powerful network of 2,500 parts suppliers and a workforce of 800,000 strong, the country is well-prepared to make a significant impact in the EV sector. Panassorn, however, urges for more government incentives to fully unlock Thailand's potential as an EV export hub. While the future for EVs seems promising, specialists at the forum stressed that broad adoption depends on progress in battery technology and charging infrastructure. They predict a crucial turning point will occur when EVs match the price of traditional vehicles and can offer a driving range of 1,000 kilometres on a single charge. Despite the promise of the EV industry, Thailand's total car production witnessed a slight fall in 2023. The 2.2% decrease, largely due to a drop in pickup truck production, serves as a reminder of the industry's challenges, including an increase in household debt and stricter lending policies. As the global initiative to fight climate change gains momentum, Thailand’s possible transformation into an EV manufacturing hub could signify a remarkable milestone. This change not only brings potential economic benefits but also aligns with global sustainability goals, possibly placing Thailand at the front of the green car revolution. The coming years will be decisive if Thailand can successfully balance its economic goals with environmental responsibilities. With the global car industry at a turning point, all eyes will be on Thailand to see if it can take advantage of this opportunity and become a leader in the EV era. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-07

Government to Start New Sign-ups for Welfare Card Scheme in March File photo for reference only The Finance Ministry is planning to start accepting new applications for the Government Welfare Card scheme in March of next year. This follows the last application period which ran from September 5 to October 31 in 2022. The ministry reviews participant eligibility every two years. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340082-government-to-start-new-sign-ups-for-welfare-card-scheme-in-march/#comment-19288565

The Finance Ministry is planning to start accepting new applications for the Government Welfare Card scheme in March of next year. This follows the last application period which ran from September 5 to October 31 in 2022. The ministry reviews participant eligibility every two years. Right now, the number of people registered for the scheme has gone down from 14.9 million to about 13.5 million, partly due to deaths. The rules for who can get a card are expected to stay the same as they were in previous rounds. To be eligible for the Government Welfare Card, a person or family has to meet certain requirements. Applicants have to be Thai citizens who are 18 and older, and they can't earn more than 100,000 baht a year. Family-wise, the average income per family member also can't exceed 100,000 baht a year. Financial possessions like savings, bonds, and financial documents can't go above 100,000 baht per person or family each year. Plus, applicants also cannot own too much property or land as set by the Finance Ministry, or own credit cards, or have housing loans past 1.5 million baht, or car loans above 1 million baht. Certain people aren't eligible for the card, such as monks, novices, prisoners, people in welfare homes, those in government jobs, retired people, and politicians, including Members of Parliament (MPs) and senators. The benefits from the card are mostly going to stay the same, unless the government makes any new policies. Right now, the benefits are: 300 baht per person each month for buying goods, 750 baht per person monthly for public transport, a 80 baht reduction every three months on cooking gas, 100 baht reduction in monthly water bills for each household, and a 315 baht reduction in monthly electricity bills for each household. The budget to cover these benefits is about 4.8 billion baht monthly, or about 50 billion baht each year. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-07

Thai man distributes explicit videos of ex-girlfriend after contracting STD Photo via FM91 Police arrested a Thai man in the Suan Luang district of Bangkok for distributing explicit videos of his ex-girlfriend in revenge for contracting a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340079-thai-man-distributes-explicit-videos-of-ex-girlfriend-after-contracting-std/

Police arrested a Thai man in the Suan Luang district of Bangkok for distributing explicit videos of his ex-girlfriend in revenge for contracting a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Officers from Prasat Police Station in the Isaan province of Surin received a complaint from the victim in May 2022, stating that her ex-boyfriend released nude videos of her online. The suspect, identified as Paitune, then fled from Isaan and went into hiding in Bangkok. According to the victim, she met her ex-boyfriend on the TikTok app in January 2022 while she was in Surin. The victim later moved to Bangkok to work and live with the man before they broke up in March, after which she returned to her home province. This month, Paitune posted the explicit videos of the victim on social media, tagging her friends to view them. The woman then decided to report the matter to the police, providing Paitune’s social media account as evidence. Local police were unable to arrest the suspect, who fled to Bangkok, and so they handed the case over to the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB). CIB officers located him in accommodation on Phattanakarn Road in the Suan Luang district of Bangkok and arrested him on October 6. According to a report by FM91, Paitune admitted to his actions, claiming that the woman contracted an STD but had not informed him. They engaged in unprotected sexual activity, which led to him contracting the same infection. Paitune said he was angry and broke up with her upon learning the truth. He then sought revenge by sharing her explicit videos. CIB officers transferred him to Prasat Police Station for further legal proceedings. Paitune was charged under Section 14(4) of the Computer Crimes Act for importing indecent material into a computer system accessible to the public. The penalty for this offence includes up to five years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to 100,000 baht. By Petch Petpailin Photo via FM91 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-07

Thai police officer allegedly rapes 17 year old girl in Chon Buri Photo via Facebook/ ดาวแปดแฉก A 17 year old Thai girl is seeking help and protection from non-profit organisation Saimai Survive, alleging that a police officer repeatedly raped her in police booths in the Chon Buri province. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340078-thai-police-officer-allegedly-rapes-17-year-old-girl-in-chon-buri/

A 17 year old Thai girl is seeking help and protection from non-profit organisation Saimai Survive, alleging that a police officer repeatedly raped her in police booths in the Chon Buri province. Saimai Survive held a press conference on Saturday, October 5, to allow the teenage victim to share her story publicly. The accused officer is reportedly a deputy police inspector of Ban Bung Police Station. He previously worked at the Nong Kae police booth before transferring to the Nong Phai Kaew police booth. The victim told the media that the sexual assault occurred while she was living alone in a rented room because her bedridden father had returned to their home province in southern Thailand. She noticed someone closely monitoring her at home and filed a complaint at Bang Bung Police Station, which led to her interaction with the suspect. The police officer frequently visited her home to ensure her safety. While her father was away, this police officer bought her food and necessities and took her on trips, causing her to regard him as an uncle. However, her trust was shattered in April when the officer she had trusted raped her in the police booth. The victim disclosed that the police officer invited her to a late-night dinner at around midnight. On the way back home, the officer asked to stop at his workplace. While they were in the booth, the officer approached the girl and touched her inappropriately. Death threat The victim realised the danger and pleaded with him not to assault her. She stated that she was not interested in men and preferred women. She also emphasised that she respected him as a relative but the police officer did not relent. He allegedly threatened to kill her if she revealed the incident to anyone. The teen stated that the police officer would call her to his workplace almost daily. She knew what he would do to her but did not dare to resist. The young woman recounted how she took her father back to their rented accommodation in Chon Buri and confided in him about the entire upsetting incident. A police officer had promised her father that he would look after her as his wife but both she and her father rejected the proposal outright. She was adamant that she had no romantic interest in the officer, stating her preference for women over men. However, the officer’s son, who holds considerable influence in the community, wrongly assumed she wished to become his father’s mistress and subsequently threatened her with harm. Fearing repercussions due to the officer’s status at the police station, the young woman felt unable to lodge a formal complaint. Instead, she turned to Saimai Survive for assistance. Ekkaphop Lueangprasert, the founder of the organisation, expressed his support for her story, emphasising the consistency and clarity of the timeline she provided. He voiced his hope that the chief police officer would intervene to ensure justice is served for all parties involved. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ดาวแปดแฉก Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-07

Jet-ski joyrider in deep water after Patong Beach hit-and-run injures Israeli Picture courtesy of Holiday Hypermarketpolice Police are in hot pursuit of a reckless jet-ski rider responsible for a shocking hit-and-run incident at Patong Beach that left an Israeli tourist battered and bruised. The drama unfolded around 6.21pm yesterday, October 6, when the unidentified foreigner, piloting a white-and-blue jet-ski, smashed into swimmer Nimrod Filip Solomon before vanishing into the sunset. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340076-jet-ski-joyrider-in-deep-water-after-patong-beach-hit-and-run-injures-israeli/

Police are in hot pursuit of a reckless jet-ski rider responsible for a shocking hit-and-run incident at Patong Beach that left an Israeli tourist battered and bruised. The drama unfolded around 6.21pm yesterday, October 6, when the unidentified foreigner, piloting a white-and-blue jet-ski, smashed into swimmer Nimrod Filip Solomon before vanishing into the sunset. Reports say the jet-ski collided with Solomon’s head as he enjoyed a swim in the turquoise waters, leaving him nursing painful head injuries. To add insult to injury, the daredevil operator didn’t even slow down, making a hasty escape from the scene. Emergency teams from the Phuket Kusoldharm Foundation wasted no time, swooping in to whisk the injured holidaymaker from the sands in front of Soi Kebsup and Thaweewong Road straight to Patong Hospital. Solomon, still reeling from the ordeal, recounted how the jet-ski renegade struck him without a shred of remorse. “The jet-ski operator sped off without offering any assistance.” Patong police stated they would leave no stone unturned in their quest to track down the audacious rider and deliver justice. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Holiday Hypermarketpolice Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-07

Thai transwoman’s German picnic turns into a viral police encounter - video Photo via Facebook/ Chananthida Sanonok A Thai transwoman recounted an encounter with the police in Germany, sparked by a misunderstanding over loud noise while she and her German boyfriend were enjoying a picnic and livestreaming outside their apartment. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340075-thai-transwoman’s-german-picnic-turns-into-a-viral-police-encounter-video/

A Thai transwoman recounted an encounter with the police in Germany, sparked by a misunderstanding over loud noise while she and her German boyfriend were enjoying a picnic and livestreaming outside their apartment. The livestream video of the Thai transwoman, Chananthida “Pinky” Sanonok, went viral on the Thai TikTok app after it captured the moment German police officers approached them during a picnic outside their apartment in the city of Villingen-Schwenningen. The viral video initially shocked Pinky’s fans, as many thought she had been arrested in Germany for overstaying her visa. The video showed Pinky preparing papaya salad with her German boyfriend outside their home. Two police officers, one male and one female, approached them and initially engaged in conversation in German. The officers then spoke to Pinky in English and asked to see her documents. She provided all the necessary documentation to the officers before they left. As many of her fans were curious about the situation, Pinky made another TikTok video to clarify what had happened that day. She explained that the police had been called because a resident suspected they were having an argument and was concerned for Pinky’s safety. However, the loud noise did not come from Pinky or her boyfriend, but from another resident who had sneezed loudly. The couple reassured the police about their peaceful life and pointed out the loud sneeze, helping the officers understand the situation, after which they left the scene. Pinky added that she and her boyfriend were fine and had not broken any laws. She also joked that the police officers seemed confused when they saw “Mister” in front of her name. Pinky said the officers stared at her, so she made a joke that her appearance might be different due to some Botox injections. Several other Thai netizens living in Germany shared in the comments section that they had experienced similar incidents, as quietness and peace are highly valued in German communities. Some mentioned that German neighbours are always vigilant in looking out for strangers in their neighbourhoods. Other Thai netizens praised the German police for their attention to potential domestic violence, which they contrasted with the priorities of Thai officers. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Chananthida Sanonok Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-07

Thai visa shake-up: Southeast Asia consulates switch to e-visa only Picture courtesy of Royal Thai Visa Getting a Thai visa in Southeast Asia is about to become a high-tech affair. Starting next week, several Thai consulates across the region will be switching entirely to online e-visa applications, leaving traditional walk-ins a thing of the past. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340074-thai-visa-shake-up-southeast-asia-consulates-switch-to-e-visa-only/

Getting a Thai visa in Southeast Asia is about to become a high-tech affair. Starting next week, several Thai consulates across the region will be switching entirely to online e-visa applications, leaving traditional walk-ins a thing of the past. In a surprise move, consulates in Vietnam (Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City), Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kota Bharu), and Cambodia (Phnom Penh) will close their doors to in-person visa applications. Some of these have already shut their consular services in anticipation of the e-visa launch, scheduled for Tuesday. Meanwhile, for those preferring the personal touch, consulates in Laos (Vientiane, Savannakhet) and Myanmar (Yangon) will continue to accept walk-in visits, albeit with a twist—you’ll need to book an appointment online to gain entry. However, it’s not all change, reported ASEAN Now. Consulates in Indonesia (Jakarta), Taiwan (Taipei), and the Philippines (Manila) will maintain their operations as usual with no appointment necessary, providing a glimmer of hope for those who prefer the classic approach. But there’s a catch: aspiring visitors must physically be in the country of their chosen Thai consulate to use the e-visa system. Moreover, travellers hankering for the now-elusive year-long multi-entry Non-O visa—once popular in Ho Chi Minh City—will need to rethink their strategy. For this coveted visa based on marriage, Savannakhet and Yangon remain the go-to spots, according to recent reports. The shift to digital is set to streamline the visa process, but it is clear applicants need to adjust their plans and embrace the online future of travel documentation. In related news, Thailand has just introduced the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), an exciting new option that allows expats and travellers to stay for up to five years without the hassle of frequent renewals. Ideal for those wanting to dive deep into Thai culture, the DTV offers three main qualifying routes: Workcation – Tailored for digital nomads, freelancers, and remote workers. Soft Power – Focus on activities like Muay Thai training or cooking schools. Spouse and Children – For those wishing to bring their family along. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Royal Thai Visa Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-07 RELATED TOPIC: S/E Asian Thai Consulates going to eVisa online system effective https://aseannow.com/topic/1339993-se-asian-thai-consulates-going-to-evisa-online-system-effective-tuesday-oct-8th/

Chiang Mai Airport Unaffected By Flooding, Operations Normal File photo for reference only Chiang Mai Airport has confirmed that it is continuing normal operations despite significant flooding in the region, caused by the Ping River exceeding its crisis level. As of 11:00 AM on October 4th, the river level at Nawarat Bridge has reached 4.88 meters, well above the 3.70-meter warning point. While central Chiang Mai is experiencing widespread flooding, particularly near the riverbanks, the airport remains fully functional. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339856-chiang-mai-airport-unaffected-by-flooding-operations-normal/

Chiang Mai Airport has confirmed that it is continuing normal operations despite significant flooding in the region, caused by the Ping River exceeding its crisis level. As of 11:00 AM on October 4th, the river level at Nawarat Bridge has reached 4.88 meters, well above the 3.70-meter warning point. While central Chiang Mai is experiencing widespread flooding, particularly near the riverbanks, the airport remains fully functional. Travellers are advised to allow additional time to reach the airport due to potential transport disruptions. It is recommended to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights to ensure a hassle-free journey. The airport's preparedness and response measures are in full force, ensuring flights operate without interruption. Passengers should stay informed through official channels for updates on the situation, reported The Pattaya News. Photo: The Pattaya News -- 2024-10-04

Chiang Mai Floods Again: Businesses Battle Rising Waters File photo for reference only Chiang Mai is grappling with its second severe flood in a week as waters rise once more, submerging large sections of the city. Despite being slightly lower than last week's deluge, the latest inundation has wreaked havoc on communities and businesses, notably around the famous Night Bazaar, where streets resemble canals. Waterlogged roads have forced authorities to deploy large trucks for tourist evacuations to the airport. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339855-chiang-mai-floods-again-businesses-battle-rising-waters/

Chiang Mai is grappling with its second severe flood in a week as waters rise once more, submerging large sections of the city. Despite being slightly lower than last week's deluge, the latest inundation has wreaked havoc on communities and businesses, notably around the famous Night Bazaar, where streets resemble canals. Waterlogged roads have forced authorities to deploy large trucks for tourist evacuations to the airport. Local businesses face mounting concerns as water levels, reaching 50-70 centimetres, threaten their goods. The Ping River, peaking at 4.81 metres, continues to overflow, affecting areas within a one-kilometre radius and flooding key infrastructure including all 13 buildings of police flats. With water and power cut, residents are evacuating, assisted by deployed boats. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai is leading relief efforts, dispatching military personnel to assist and instructing officials to monitor water levels and install water pumps. Schools in the worst-hit areas are temporarily closed. In Mae Taeng, a notable rescue operation is underway to save 126 elephants, with 117 successfully relocated so far. As officials brace for potential worsening conditions due to northern flash floods, the urgency of relief efforts intensifies. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-04