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A florist from Uthai Thani province recently urged people to donate white flowers for the funerals of the victims of a bus fire, most of them school children. After just three hours, he ended the campaign as he received an overwhelming number of flower donations from across the country, including Bangkok, Nakhon Pathom, and Chiang Mai. The florist, Chavalit Waikasikorn, stated that he had received enough flowers to decorate the funerals of the bus fire victims in Pathum Thani province, which happened on Tuesday. He explained that he initiated the call for white flower donations for the funerals, aware that he might not have enough to adorn all the victims' funerals. But he was astounded at how quickly people responded. White flowers were the preferred choice because they represent purity and innocence, which seemed fitting as the majority of the victims were children aged between 9 and 14. Out of the twenty-three passengers who lost their lives when the coach caught fire on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, twenty were schoolchildren, and three were teachers. Except for one, all victims have been identified. Their bodies were transported back to their home province last night for a funeral at Wat Khao Phraya Sangkharam School in Uthai Thani’s Lan Sak district. Chavalit also mentioned that many individuals volunteered to help with the funeral proceedings. In addition, florists from cities such as Ayutthaya, Saraburi, Chonburi, and Chainat traveled to help with the flower decorations. As the victims' bodies arrived at the school last night, their grieving families, friends, and local officials held a solemn reception. Tonight, a religious ceremony presided over by Privy Councillor president Gen Surayud Chulanont is scheduled. There is also a royally sponsored funeral planned for next Tuesday. Photo: Thai PBS World -- 2024-10-03

Families Grieve School Bus Fire Victims, Cause of Fire Under Investigation Photo: Thai News Agency Family members gathered on Thursday to remember the 23 victims who were killed in a school bus fire in the Uthai Thani district. Meanwhile, enquiries into the cause of the tragic incident are still ongoing. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339544-school-bus-fire-claims-multiple-lives-and-injures-young-students-in-rangsit/?do=findComment&comment=19279518

Families Grieve School Bus Fire Victims, Cause of Fire Under Investigation Family members gathered on Thursday to remember the 23 victims who were killed in a school bus fire in the Uthai Thani district. Meanwhile, enquiries into the cause of the tragic incident are still ongoing. The multi-use building at Wat Khao Phra Ya Sangkharam School was filled with white flowers, as grieving families kept coming in all morning. Many found it hard to accept the loss of their loved ones in this field trip tragedy. Investigators confirmed that there was a gas leak in the front of the bus, but it's still unclear what exactly ignited the fire. Police Lieutenant General Trairong Phewphan, Head of the Central Forensic Science Office, said that two ideas are being looked into, though details weren't given. The owner of the bus company was questioned for three hours but chose not to talk to the media. Officials confirmed that the bus had 11 gas cylinders fitted, which is over the legal limit of six. In response to this incident, Deputy Prime Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit announced government compensation for the victim's families, which includes 1 million baht ($30,000) for each death and varying amounts for injuries. There could be further compensation from various ministries and the bus company's insurance, which is expected to total around 1.4 million baht ($42,000). Thammasat University Hospital reported two girls, aged 7 and 9, who are critically injured, suffering from severe burns and breathing difficulties. Medical teams are providing intensive and specialized care to treat their injuries. Photo: Thai News Agency -- 2024-10-03

PM to Address ACD Summit, Hold Bilateral Talks with Four Countries DOHA, Oct3 (TNA) – Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to deliver a statement at the 3rd Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) Summit and hold bilateral talks with four countries, Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa said on Thursday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339773-pm-to-address-acd-summit-hold-bilateral-talks-with-four-countries/

DOHA, Oct3 (TNA) – Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to deliver a statement at the 3rd Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) Summit and hold bilateral talks with four countries, Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa said on Thursday. The prime minister, who arrived in Doha for the ACD Summit, will meet with leaders from Iran, Kuwait, Qatar, and Tajikistan on the sidelines of the conference. The prime minister is scheduled to address the summit at Thursday afternoon. Full story: Thai News Agency -- 2024-10-03

Democracy to heritage: Activist Netiwit hailed for ‘Last Breath of Sam Yan’ Photo: Thai PBS World Former student activist Netiwit Chotiphatphaisal, renowned for his outspoken protests against the Thai establishment, is back in the media spotlight as an award-winning filmmaker. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339772-democracy-to-heritage-activist-netiwit-hailed-for-‘last-breath-of-sam-yan’/

Former student activist Netiwit Chotiphatphaisal, renowned for his outspoken protests against the Thai establishment, is back in the media spotlight as an award-winning filmmaker. “The Last Breath of Sam Yan”, which Netiwit co-produced and appeared in, earned the nod for “Best Documentary Film” at the 2023 Suphannahong Awards, presented by the National Federation of Motion Pictures and Contents Associations last Monday (September 30). The 75-minute-long film tells the story of a campaign by students and locals to save a century-old Chinese shrine from demolition in Bangkok’s Sam Yan neighbourhood. Photo: Thai PBS World Full story: Thai PBS World -- 2024-10-03

Warrant issued for Pheu Thai MP in Tak Bai massacre case Photo: Thai PBS World The Narathiwat Provincial Court has issued a warrant for the arrest of Gen Pisan Wattanawongkiri, a Pheu Thai MP and former commander of the 4th Army Region, to stand trial on charges related to the Tak Bai massacre about two decades ago. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339771-warrant-issued-for-pheu-thai-mp-in-tak-bai-massacre-case/

The Narathiwat Provincial Court has issued a warrant for the arrest of Gen Pisan Wattanawongkiri, a Pheu Thai MP and former commander of the 4th Army Region, to stand trial on charges related to the Tak Bai massacre about two decades ago. According to the Cross Cultural Foundation, the court issued the warrant on Tuesday, after the lawyer for the families of the massacre victims asked the court to have him apprehended on a suspicion that Gen Pisan may try to flee the country. Last month, the court issued warrants for the arrests of six other defendants, after they refused to show up for trial. Photo: Thai PBS World Full story: Thai PBS World -- 2024-10-03

Man steals truck to get arrested for food and shelter in prison Photo: The Thaiger A man was recently taken into custody for stealing a Toyota Revo pickup truck. After committing the crime, he led the police on a province-wide chase before surrendering on his own. The arrested man admitted that he stole because he was suffering from illness and didn't have any source of income, making him see jail as a place where he would be assured of regular meals. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339765-man-steals-truck-to-get-arrested-for-food-and-shelter-in-prison/

A man was recently taken into custody for stealing a Toyota Revo pickup truck. After committing the crime, he led the police on a province-wide chase before surrendering on his own. The arrested man admitted that he stole because he was suffering from illness and didn't have any source of income, making him see jail as a place where he would be assured of regular meals. The police were alerted to the theft by a call from the 191 radio center in Samut Songkhram, informing them of the stolen pickup which had been taken from its owner at 9:20pm on October 2nd. The owner was identified as 30-year-old Thanakorn Mahakaew who had left his truck unattended while withdrawing cash from an ATM at a petrol station on Phetkasem Road, in the Mueang district of Ratchaburi province. The thief, who fled the scene using the same road, entered Samut Songkhram. A police team led by Siam Intsuwanno, Superintendent of Mueang Samut Songkhram Police Station, came together with other officers to intercept the stolen truck. The chase ended near Koke Ket temple, in the Amphawa district when the truck veered off the road and halted. When the police ordered the thief to emerge from the vehicle, he didn't respond. The police had to call in reinforcements that included two ambulances and five lighting vehicles for visibility. Nearly an hour later, the thief finally stepped out of the truck and surrendered. The thief was later identified as a 47-year-old named Ekachai. The police found a gold necklace, a gold-encased amulet that belonged to the truck owner, and two guns with five bullets, also owned by Thanakorn. Ekachai confessed that he lived alone, was dealing with tuberculosis, and had no money, not even enough to buy food. This desperate situation led him to steal the truck as a means of getting arrested and sent to prison, where he would be fed regularly. He said, "I have no income, no food to eat. I committed the theft to get arrested. At least in prison, I will have food every day.” Photo: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-03

Phuket's Vegetarian Festival Kicks Off: A Blending of Tradition and Taste File photo for reference only Phuket's renowned Vegetarian Festival commenced with grandeur on the evening of October 2. The traditional rite of raising the Go Teng poles at various Chinese shrines on the island marked the start of the 9-day fiesta, promising a cultural spectacle for both locals and tourists. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339764-phukets-vegetarian-festival-kicks-off-a-blending-of-tradition-and-taste/

Phuket's renowned Vegetarian Festival commenced with grandeur on the evening of October 2. The traditional rite of raising the Go Teng poles at various Chinese shrines on the island marked the start of the 9-day fiesta, promising a cultural spectacle for both locals and tourists. The epicenter of this event, Jui Tui Tao Bokeung Shrine in Phuket Town, attracted thousands of people eager to witness this special ceremony. Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, known to the Phuket locals from his time as Tourism and Sports Minister, led the proceedings. He was accompanied by the Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat, and other eminent individuals like Kittiwong Chansattam, who is the Chairperson of the Jui Tui Tao Bokeung Foundation. Dressed in white, a large crowd of locals and tourists were present to observe the ceremonial lift of the Go Teng pole, which is ornamented with nine lanterns representing deities. This act marks the formal start of the 2024 Vegetarian Festival, or the Jia Chai Festival as it is fondly called. Other shrines across the island like Bang Neow, Lo Rong, Sam Kong, Kuan Yu, and Kathu, also held similar pole-raising ceremonies, indicating a common celebration. As the festival continues, additional spiritual rituals, such as the Iu Keng ceremony featuring spirit mediums performing citywide, will be carried out. An intriguing part of the festival is where these spirit mediums invoke deities and perform acts of self-sacrifice, thereby reinforcing their faith and absorbing the misfortunes of those present. This lively festival will carry on until October 11, with parades, vegetarian food offerings, and divine blessings across the island. The famous street parades will commence on October 4. Starting at 7 am, the Guan Yu Shrine in Baan Nabon will lead the procession through the Palai area, followed by the Jchoor Su Gong Naka Shrine in Wichit at 7.30 am. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-03

Thai Woman Sought by Police for Drug-Smuggling Scam File photo for reference only Police are on the hunt for a Thai woman who duped a man from the Udon Thani area of Isaan province in Thailand into becoming a drug courier to South Korea. The innocent man, 20-year-old Auan, was paid 500 baht by a woman named Eye to deliver a package for her. Auan grew suspicious of the parcel's contents, fearing they might be illegal. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339763-thai-woman-sought-by-police-for-drug-smuggling-scam/

Police are on the hunt for a Thai woman who duped a man from the Udon Thani area of Isaan province in Thailand into becoming a drug courier to South Korea. The innocent man, 20-year-old Auan, was paid 500 baht by a woman named Eye to deliver a package for her. Auan grew suspicious of the parcel's contents, fearing they might be illegal. Heeding his friend's advice, Auan reported Eye's dubious activities to the Border Patrol Police. He did not go ahead with the package delivery and lodged a formal complaint against Eye. In his complaint, Auan included security footage showing Eye delivering the package to his house. The video revealed Eye riding to Auan's house on her motorcycle and handing him the package. The parcel bore the name and address of a South Korean resident in both English and Korean. When presenting the package to the authorities, an inspection revealed bottles of supplements. Amidst the real supplements were capsules containing methamphetamine, also known as Yaba. Each capsule hid six pills of the drug. Additional investigations shed light on the connection between Eye and her boyfriend, a Laotian national. Police suspect that he might be the mastermind behind the cross-border drug smuggling operation. Attempts to apprehend Eye at her residence proved unsuccessful, as she was not present at the time of the raid. Although the officers found several cardboard boxes, there was no evidence of drugs or other contraband. The Border Patrol Police is currently working with the Office of the Narcotics Control Board to locate Eye. They are also pursuing leads related to potential suspects in both Thailand and South Korea. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-03

Thai Government Offers Car Tax Breaks for Elderly and Disabled Citizens File photo for reference only Thailand's Excise Department is preparing to implement a new rule that will remove tax on vehicles specifically designed for the elderly or individuals with disabilities, reducing the current tax rates on such vehicles from 25 to 40%. The Director-General of the Department, Ekniti Nitithanprapas, explained the current rules and how the new regulation would change them. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339762-thai-government-offers-car-tax-breaks-for-elderly-and-disabled-citizens/

Thailand's Excise Department is preparing to implement a new rule that will remove tax on vehicles specifically designed for the elderly or individuals with disabilities, reducing the current tax rates on such vehicles from 25 to 40%. The Director-General of the Department, Ekniti Nitithanprapas, explained the current rules and how the new regulation would change them. At present, vehicles with 10 or more seats, like passenger vans, do not have to pay excise tax. But if a vehicle is altered by removing seats for the installation of special equipment for disabled or elderly individuals, thereby dropping the number of seats to less than 10, then it becomes subject to an excise tax of 25 to 40%. Aiming to endorse equality and convenience for elderly and disabled individuals, as well as supporting Thailand's objective to become a medical hub, the Excise Department is planning to propose a new rule to the Finance Ministry. This will exclude such altered vehicles from excise tax. To prevent misuse of this new rule, the Department will demand proof that the vehicle modifications are specifically made for elderly or disabled persons. Relevant agencies will be tasked with conducting inspections and providing certifications. In addition, the Department aims to release a statement detailing guidelines and requirements for special equipment for elderly or disabled people like lifts, seatbelt systems, and wheelchair securement systems. This will include specifications for symbols and text indicating that the vehicle is intended for use by elderly or disabled persons, stated Ekniti. “This move will not only assist the elderly and the disabled but will also encourage innovation in the auto industry,” he added. Ekniti further mentioned that the Excise Department is now focusing not just on taxing products that affect the environment, health, or luxury items, but also on promoting societal wellbeing. One example of this is the sugar tax implemented previously to motivate beverage manufacturers to lower the sugar levels in their products, aiming to combat the increase in diabetes cases in Thailand. This has led to a significant decrease in the production of sugary drinks over the past four to five years, reducing beverages containing more than 14 grams of sugar per liter from 819 million liters per year to just 16 million liters annually. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-03

Thai Embassy in Israel on High Alert Amid Rising Tensions File photo for reference only In response to escalating unrest in Israel, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has directed the Thai embassy in Tel Aviv to vigilantly monitor the security situation. As tensions between Iran and Israel continue to rise, the Thai premier has urged the embassy to provide crucial updates to Thai nationals and prepare for their potential evacuation if necessary. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339761-thai-embassy-in-israel-on-high-alert-amid-rising-tensions/

In response to escalating unrest in Israel, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has directed the Thai embassy in Tel Aviv to vigilantly monitor the security situation. As tensions between Iran and Israel continue to rise, the Thai premier has urged the embassy to provide crucial updates to Thai nationals and prepare for their potential evacuation if necessary. Over recent weeks, Israeli missile attacks targeting Hezbollah officials have heightened hostility, prompting Iranian counterstrikes on northern Israel. Consequently, several towns near the Lebanon border, including Dovev, Tziv’on, and Malkia, have been declared closed military zones by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) as of October 1. The Thai embassy has swiftly communicated these developments, advising Thai residents in these regions to evacuate without delay. Essential contacts have been provided for those requiring assistance: +972 54-636-8150, +972 50-367-3195, or +972 54-569-3476. Previously, Thai workers mainly engaged in Israel's agricultural and construction sectors were significantly impacted by the conflict with Hamas last October. Though many were repatriated, a considerable number chose to remain in safer areas. As the situation evolves, the Thai government remains committed to ensuring the safety of its citizens abroad. File photo for reference only -- 2024-10-03

Chalong cops stage ‘active gunman’ drill amid festival fears Photo courtesy of Phuket News Shoppers at Chalong’s popular Robinson Lifestyle mall were left in shock as police staged a dramatic active gunman drill, simulating a gunman on the loose. A video, posted by Chalong Police on Tuesday, October 1, shows a man pulling up on a motorbike, wielding what looks like an assault rifle, before storming the mall in a mock mass shooting. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339760-chalong-cops-stage-‘active-gunman’-drill-amid-festival-fears/

Shoppers at Chalong’s popular Robinson Lifestyle mall were left in shock as police staged a dramatic active gunman drill, simulating a gunman on the loose. A video, posted by Chalong Police on Tuesday, October 1, shows a man pulling up on a motorbike, wielding what looks like an assault rifle, before storming the mall in a mock mass shooting. As the gunman moved through the building, staff were seen fleeing, while senior officers arrived on the scene, taking control with the help of the mall’s CCTV system. A crack police team, armed with a bulletproof shield, entered in formation and confronted the gunman, who quickly surrendered. Although the police post didn’t specify when the exercise took place, the timing was no coincidence—Phuket’s famous Vegetarian Festival had just kicked off, bringing in huge crowds and raising security concerns. Region 8 Police Commander Police Lieutenant General Surapong Thanomchit launched a special anti-crime campaign on the same day, involving 350 personnel from the police, navy, and Volunteer Defence Corps. “The safety of the public and tourists is our top priority. We are committed to using all necessary precautions and police tactics to ensure everyone’s safety during the Vegetarian Festival.” The drill serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present threat of violence, even in the most unexpected places. With large gatherings attracting unwanted attention, police are on high alert, making sure their response plans are razor-sharp, reported Phuket News. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-03

Men with swords and bats storm Udon Thani children’s centre Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Two men wielding swords and baseball bats stormed a children’s development centre in Udon Thani, causing panic among teachers and children. CCTV footage captured the incident, which took place at 12.40pm yesterday, October 2, showing the men attacking each other. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339758-men-with-swords-and-bats-storm-udon-thani-children’s-centre/

Two men wielding swords and baseball bats stormed a children’s development centre in Udon Thani, causing panic among teachers and children. CCTV footage captured the incident, which took place at 12.40pm yesterday, October 2, showing the men attacking each other. Police Lieutenant Precha Kangkhonnok of the Na Kha Police Station received a call from 59 year old Praipai Sintipla, the village head of Don Charoen, reporting the attack at the Ban Don Charoen Children’s Development Centre. Concerned for the safety of the teachers and children, police quickly arrived at the scene. The children’s centre, a single-storey building, housed 30 kindergarten students napping inside when the incident occurred. Ampon Butr-udom, a 59 year old teacher at the centre, waited outside to guide the police. A blue Honda Wave motorcycle, registration 1กค 1019 Udon Thani, was found damaged and tipped over near the entrance. However, the attackers had already fled. Footage from the CCTV revealed that at 12.31pm, a man arrived on a motorcycle and parked in front of the centre’s gate. He hesitated before entering the premises, abandoning his vehicle, and running towards the back of the building. Shortly after, two more men arrived on a motorcycle, armed with swords and a baseball bat, and chased the first man. The assailants eventually returned to the front of the building, where they proceeded to destroy the abandoned motorcycle before fleeing. The police instructed the villagers to return the damaged motorcycle to its owner, who lived about 100 metres from the scene. According to initial investigations, Ampon stated that the centre’s gate is usually closed but it had been left open as a teacher had gone out briefly to buy supplies. Ampon was working in the office while the children were napping when she heard a motorcycle pull up and voices shouting. The two armed men then appeared, causing a commotion as they chased the first man. Armed men Ampon identified the motorcycle’s owner as Tum, around 40 years old, who lives nearby. She did not recognise the assailants and speculated they might be new residents or from a neighbouring community. The village head confirmed not knowing the attackers either. Police suspect that Tum, while riding home, spotted his enemies and decided to divert into the children’s centre to escape. The assailants followed him but failed to catch him, turning their frustration on his motorcycle instead, reported KhaoSod. Police advised the teachers at Ban Don Charoen Children’s Development Centre to use the CCTV footage as evidence and file a formal complaint at Na Kha Police Station. The police are now working to identify and apprehend the two men who invaded the centre with swords and baseball bats, ensuring they face legal consequences for their actions. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-03

Moo-ving in on trouble: SAO official nabbed for stealing 50 cows Photo via Facebook/ tourthai news Police arrested a member of the Sub-district Administrative Office (SAO) in the northern province of Mae Hong Son for stealing 50 cows and buffaloes from locals and selling them at a slaughterhouse. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339756-moo-ving-in-on-trouble-sao-official-nabbed-for-stealing-50-cows/

Police arrested a member of the Sub-district Administrative Office (SAO) in the northern province of Mae Hong Son for stealing 50 cows and buffaloes from locals and selling them at a slaughterhouse. More than 10 residents in the Mae Sariang district of Mae Hong Son province sought help from officers at Mae Sariang Police Station after their livestock was stolen. Local agriculturists did not have security cameras at home, which allowed the thieves to evade arrest easily. A thorough investigation revealed that the suspect was a 35 year old SAO official named Anantachai. Officers found the suspect selling stolen cows and buffaloes to a slaughterhouse both within and outside the province. Police closely monitored Anantachai and eventually arrested him yesterday, October 2, while he was driving his pickup along the road by the Huay Walk Irrigation Canal in the Mae Yuam sub-district. According to police, Anantachai was not originally from the Mae Sariang district. He moved from another area but gained the trust and confidence of many locals as he was selected as an SAO official. Anantachai’s crime could result in imprisonment for one to ten years and a fine ranging from 2,000 to 20,000 baht for violating Section 335(12) of the Criminal Law, which pertains to committing theft of agricultural equipment. After questioning Anantachai, police made known to the press that there were more suspects involved in the crime, adding they would conduct further investigations to arrest them all. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ tourthai news Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-03