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On September 24th, Ms. Prapaiporn, a 53-year-old hotel housekeeper in Pattaya, discovered her gray Honda Wave 100 motorcycle stolen from her residence in the Nong Pla Lai sub-district. Reporting the theft to Banglamung police spurred them into swift action. Police reviewed over 10 CCTV cameras, leading them to 30-year-old Mr. Ritthichai Petchdin, who was found in possession of methamphetamine. Upon arrest, Mr. Ritthichai confessed to the theft and revealed that he had stolen the bike under orders from a man named Phong, who paid him 4,000 baht per motorbike for resale in Laos. Further interrogation revealed a broader network. Mr. Ritthichai would deliver stolen bikes to a pickup truck bound for Nakhon Phanom province, from where they were smuggled across the border. This operation has involved multiple thefts, and Mr. Ritthichai had a prior conviction for stealing over 40 motorcycles. A sting operation ensued, catching 39-year-old Mr. Dechnarong Changsue as he arrived in a black Toyota Revo to collect the stolen bikes. Mr. Dechnarong, normally a delivery driver in Bangkok, claimed he was unaware the motorcycles were stolen. He had been offered 1,200 baht per bike by a customer to transport them to Rayong province. The swift police action has unraveled a significant cross-border motorbike theft network extending into neighbouring countries. Deputy Superintendent Pol. Lt. Col. Suchart Dusadee confirmed ongoing efforts to dismantle the entire operation. Mr. Ritthichai faces charges of theft and drug possession, while Mr. Dechnarong is charged with receiving stolen property. Both are now in custody, pending further legal actions, reported The Pattaya News. Photo: The Pattaya News -- 2024-09-26

Roadside Bomb Injures Eight Soldiers in Southern Thailand File photo for reference only This morning, a roadside bomb exploded in Ra-ngae district, southern Thailand, injuring eight soldiers. The blast occurred on Taloh Bridge as the soldiers were returning to their base after gathering parawood for renovations. Suspected insurgents are believed to have detonated the device. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339166-roadside-bomb-injures-eight-soldiers-in-southern-thailand/

This morning, a roadside bomb exploded in Ra-ngae district, southern Thailand, injuring eight soldiers. The blast occurred on Taloh Bridge as the soldiers were returning to their base after gathering parawood for renovations. Suspected insurgents are believed to have detonated the device. In the aftermath, authorities swiftly cordoned off the affected area, imposing a vehicle ban to ensure safety and facilitate a thorough investigation. Evidence is currently being collected on-site with the hope of apprehending those responsible for this act of aggression. The incident highlights ongoing security concerns in Thailand’s southernmost provinces. Photo: Thai News Agency -- 2024-09-26

Phuket Residents Brace for Water Supply Disruption Due to Repairs File photo for reference only Phuket, 26 September — Residents in central areas of Phuket are facing a significant water supply disruption today, as essential repairs are being carried out, the Phuket Provincial Waterworks Authority (PWA) has announced. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339163-phuket-residents-brace-for-water-supply-disruption-due-to-repairs/

Phuket, 26 September — Residents in central areas of Phuket are facing a significant water supply disruption today, as essential repairs are being carried out, the Phuket Provincial Waterworks Authority (PWA) has announced. From 9am to 5pm, a malfunctioning water pump raft has necessitated urgent maintenance to rectify reduced water pressure. The affected regions include Srisoonthorn, Cherng Talay, Pa Khlok, Kamala, and Ratsada. During this period, residents might experience weakened water flow or a complete cessation of supply. The PWA has advised that post-repair, water may initially appear discoloured or contain sediment. Authorities assure the public that every effort will be made to restore normal water supply promptly. For assistance, affected individuals can reach out to the PWA Phuket branch at 076-319173 or 063-4744565, or contact the PWA Contact Center at 1662. The PWA has expressed apologies for the disruption and appreciates the public's patience during this necessary maintenance. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-26

Animal Welfare Group Takes in Pit Bull After Fatal Attack File photo for reference only In tragic news from the Sam Khok district of Pathum Thani province, a 67-year-old woman was mauled to death by a pit bull, leading to the animal's subsequent adoption by an animal welfare organisation. The incident has left the local community in shock and prompted urgent discussions on pet safety and control. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339162-animal-welfare-group-takes-in-pit-bull-after-fatal-attack/

In tragic news from the Sam Khok district of Pathum Thani province, a 67-year-old woman was mauled to death by a pit bull, leading to the animal's subsequent adoption by an animal welfare organisation. The incident has left the local community in shock and prompted urgent discussions on pet safety and control. Yesterday, Peerabun Charoenwai, chairman of Hope Thailand, met with the dog’s owner, Kietkanok Tanlae, at his home. The pit bull, named Poikai, had been under Kietkanok's care along with six other Thai breed dogs. The owner's aunt, Daeng Thammatanta, tragically lost her life in the attack, compelling Kietkanok to seek alternative arrangements for Poikai. Kietkanok expressed his difficulty in managing the situation, explaining his decision to surrender the dog due to his existing responsibilities with multiple pets. Hope Thailand has stepped in, agreeing to relocate Poikai to their office in Nakhon Pathom province. The organisation plans to enrol Poikai in a behaviour adjustment course to address his aggressive tendencies. Peerabun hinted that the aggressive behaviour may stem from the dog not being neutered, exacerbating his dominance issues. Past attempts to neuter Poikai were thwarted by a blood infection, but there remains hope that completing the procedure might help mitigate future aggression. A key factor identified in the fatal incident was the dog's enclosure, which was not sufficiently secure, allowing Poikai to escape and attack. This highlights the importance of proper containment and behaviour management for powerful breeds like pit bulls. The situation underscores the critical role of responsible pet ownership and the necessity for interventions by animal welfare organisations to prevent such tragedies. Hope Thailand's efforts aim to rehabilitate Poikai, potentially transforming his behaviour and ensuring safer interactions in the future. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-26

Thailand’s Hospitality Triumph: 58 Hotels Earn Michelin Key Awards File photo for reference only Thailand’s tourism industry celebrates a major milestone as 58 hotels across the nation have been honoured with the prestigious Michelin Key award. Introduced as a measure of excellence in hospitality, this accolade marks a new chapter in setting benchmarks for hotel experiences. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339161-thailand’s-hospitality-triumph-58-hotels-earn-michelin-key-awards/

Thailand’s tourism industry celebrates a major milestone as 58 hotels across the nation have been honoured with the prestigious Michelin Key award. Introduced as a measure of excellence in hospitality, this accolade marks a new chapter in setting benchmarks for hotel experiences. The Michelin Key, akin to the Michelin stars for restaurants, categorises its awards into three levels. Eight elite hotels have received the highest honour of 3 Michelin Keys, nineteen boast 2 Michelin Keys, and an impressive thirty-one hold 1 Michelin Key. The evaluations, carried out by anonymous Michelin inspectors, scrutinise the establishments' service quality, unique offerings, and overall guest satisfaction. Recipients of the Michelin Key deliver exceptional service and distinctive character. Hotels with 1 Michelin Key promise a personalised stay with great value. Those with 2 Michelin Keys are celebrated for their impressive experience, strong local connection, and unique identity. Finally, hotels awarded 3 Michelin Keys epitomise an unforgettable, luxurious experience, setting unparalleled standards in hospitality. This recognition highlights the diversity within Thailand’s hospitality sector, from luxury international chains to boutique city hotels and blissful retreats. Noteworthy hotels include the Amanpuri in Phuket, Four Seasons Resort Chiang Mai, and the Mandarin Oriental in Bangkok. Bangkok leads with 19 Michelin Key hotels, including 3-Star recipients like The Siam. Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guides, expressed delight at launching the awards in Thailand, stating, "These 58 hotels invite travellers to experience the beauty, warmth, and unique hospitality of Thailand at its best." Elisabeth Boucher, the Guide’s Communications Director, emphasised the inclusivity of the awards, which cater to different budget levels and lifestyles, not just ultra-luxury. The Michelin Guide currently features around 5,000 hotels globally. Travellers can now book these distinguished hotels via the Michelin Guide's digital platform. Following this successful launch, Michelin plans to expand its Key awards to the UK, Ireland, Germany, Austria, and Switzerland soon. The Michelin Key awards debuted in France earlier this year, with Japan being the pioneer country in Asia to release a Michelin Key list. Full details of the awarded hotels can be found on the Michelin Guide website. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-26

Lampang dams overflow, residents urged to evacuate valuables Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Two major dams in Lampang, Thailand have burst their banks following relentless rainfall, leaving officials scrambling to warn residents in low-lying areas to move their belongings to higher ground immediately. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339160-lampang-dams-overflow-residents-urged-to-evacuate-valuables/

Two major dams in Lampang, Thailand have burst their banks following relentless rainfall, leaving officials scrambling to warn residents in low-lying areas to move their belongings to higher ground immediately. The torrential downpour, which started yesterday, September 25, and continued fiercely through the night, has sent water levels skyrocketing, creating a dangerously precarious situation for those living nearby. Local government officials and emergency services are on high alert, and the clock is ticking for locals to safeguard their homes and possessions against the impending deluge. Heavy downpours have led to flash floods and runoff in the upper areas, significantly affecting the Khew Ko Ma Korn Dam in Jaehom district. As of today, the dam holds 189 million cubic meters of water, reaching 111% of its total capacity. Officials are currently releasing water at a rate of 257 cubic meters per second to manage the overflow, said a spokesperson from the Irrigation Project and Maintenance Office of Khun Korn Dam. “If additional rainfall occurs downstream, it will cause the Wang River’s water level to rise further, impacting 13 villages in Jaehom district, including Pongdon, Jaehom, Wichet Nakhon, and Ban Sa.” Water levels The water levels are expected to remain high from today until the end of the month. The released water from Khew Ko Ma Dam flows into the Kiu Lom Dam in the Mueang district, which is also experiencing a rapid increase in water levels due to rain. Currently, Kiu Lom Dam holds 88 million cubic meters, or 83% of its capacity. To manage this, officials began releasing water into the Wang River at a rate of 320 cubic meters per second since 1am today. As a result, the Wang River’s level in Mueang district, particularly in Boonnak Phatthana, Ban Sadet, and Phichai subdistricts, has risen by over 30 centimetres. Projections indicate it could reach 85 centimetres. Lampang Municipality has elevated its alert level to prepare for the rising water, which could potentially reach critical overflow levels if heavy rains continue. Residents in low-lying areas, including communities along Setuwaree Bridge, Thanang Loy, Tha Ma O, and those adjacent to Wang River such as Paa Mai Road, Charoen Prathet Road, Pong Sanuk Road, Talad Kao Road, Thip Chang Road, and Dong Chai Road, are advised to evacuate valuables and essential items to higher ground. The municipality anticipates the water level could peak at 1 metre by this afternoon. In response to the potential flooding, Lampang Municipality has established an Emergency Operations Centre to monitor the situation and provide necessary assistance. The centre is equipped with manpower, equipment, medical supplies, survival kits, food, and water to support affected residents, reported KhaoSod. “We urge residents to move their vehicles, belongings, and essential items to higher ground to prepare for the impending situation,” the municipality advised. The emergency hotline 199 is available 24 hours for any flood-related emergencies. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-26

Thailand digital wallet handout falls short: Woman gets only 4,000 Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A Thai woman attempting to withdraw 10,000 baht for her father, as part of the Thai government’s digital wallet handout for vulnerable groups and people with disabilities, received only 4,000 baht, sparking suspicions of debt deductions by the bank. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339159-thailand-digital-wallet-handout-falls-short-woman-gets-only-4000/

A Thai woman attempting to withdraw 10,000 baht for her father, as part of the Thai government’s digital wallet handout for vulnerable groups and people with disabilities, received only 4,000 baht, sparking suspicions of debt deductions by the bank. In Uthai Thani province, the government commenced disbursing 10,000 baht to vulnerable groups and those with disabilities. From early morning, recipients flocked to various ATMs across the province, particularly those linked with PromptPay accounts. At the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC) ATM in Thap Than district, people started gathering as early as 5am, equipped with passbooks and ATM cards to check their balances. The crowd had grown significantly by 7am, with many eagerly checking their accounts, updating their passbooks, and withdrawing money. Some withdrew portions of the sum for immediate expenses, while others took out the entire amount for family needs. However, one woman faced an unexpected issue when she found she could only withdraw 4,000 baht instead of the full 10,000 baht intended for her father. The woman speculated that the BAAC might have deducted the remaining amount to cover an existing debt her father owed on behalf of her brother. Frustrated by the shortfall, she planned to seek clarification from the bank, reported KhaoSod. “I expected to withdraw the full amount that the government provided, but I only received 4,000 baht. I’m concerned that the bank may have deducted the rest for my brother’s debt.” More news updates on the story as we get it. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-26

Golden weak: Chinese tourists to Thailand dip as baht bites Picture courtesy of Wichan Charoenkiatpakul Chinese tourist numbers during the upcoming Golden Week holiday are anticipated to be lower than expected, influenced by a strong baht and China’s sluggish economy, which are limiting tourist spending. This trend is also prompting other international visitors to negotiate lower service prices. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339158-golden-weak-chinese-tourists-to-thailand-dip-as-baht-bites/

Chinese tourist numbers during the upcoming Golden Week holiday are anticipated to be lower than expected, influenced by a strong baht and China’s sluggish economy, which are limiting tourist spending. This trend is also prompting other international visitors to negotiate lower service prices. Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, the Association of Chon Buri Tourism Federation President, highlighted concerns about the appreciating baht’s adverse effects on tourism. He noted that some travel agents are already seeking discounts from Thai operators, primarily because hotels charge in the local currency. “In Pattaya, forward bookings for Chinese tourists during Golden Week, from October 1 to October 7, have not seen significant growth.” Thanet observed that many tourists prefer last-minute bookings, and the number of tour groups has decreased. Suksit Suvunditkul, president of the southern chapter of the Thai Hotels Association, mentioned that Golden Week in Phuket is not as busy as Chinese New Year, given that October is the island’s low season. Despite China being a major market for Phuket, bookings for the upcoming holiday have not surged significantly. “Most hotels in Phuket cater to mixed markets, including domestic tourists, Asians, and long-haul travellers.” Online travel platform Agoda reported a 137% year-on-year increase in international accommodation searches by Chinese travellers for Golden Week. However, despite Bangkok maintaining a top-five position, it was surpassed by Bali this year. Chinese tourists A source from a large inbound tour operator, who requested anonymity, noted that while the Chinese market during Golden Week is expected to improve from last year, it will not meet high expectations. The source cited China’s sluggish economy, including salary cuts for civil servants and a troubled real estate sector, as factors impacting travel budgets. The source estimated that around 30,000 Chinese tourists would arrive daily in Thailand during the holiday, compared to 40,000 daily arrivals in 2019. Overall, the Chinese market this year is expected to bring in 7.5 million tourists, but their expenditure is predicted to remain flat. The baht’s surge to a 19-month high against the US dollar and appreciation over other Asian currencies is another concern for operators. The strong baht may deter Chinese tourists, causing them to view Thailand as a less valuable destination and opt for alternatives like Japan, reported Bangkok Post. “Tourists may see Thailand as a less valuable destination and opt for other destinations, such as Japan,” the source said. The source urged the government to take proactive steps in boosting Chinese and other foreign markets, as the exchange rate and strong competition could impact the upcoming high season. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Wichan Charoenkiatpakul Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-26

PM Paetongtarn tops the polls whilst Thaksin falls to 7th Photo courtesy of The Nation Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has surged to the top of the charts in a LINE Today poll, placed first among Thailand’s political elite. The poll, conducted from September 10 to 20, revealed that the country’s 31st Prime Minister and second female leader outpaced her rivals by a wide margin. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339157-pm-paetongtarn-tops-the-polls-whilst-thaksin-falls-to-7th/

Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has surged to the top of the charts in a LINE Today poll, placed first among Thailand’s political elite. The poll, conducted from September 10 to 20, revealed that the country’s 31st Prime Minister and second female leader outpaced her rivals by a wide margin. Leading the pack with an impressive 4,764 points, PM Paetongtarn left former Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat in the dust, who secured second place with 2,991 points. Natural Resources and Environment Minister Chalermchai Sri-on followed at a distant third, racking up 1,355 points. Despite her father, Thaksin Shinawatra’s long-standing influence in Thai politics, he only managed to scrape into seventh place with 336 points. Political heavyweights such as Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga and former House Speaker Chuan Leekpai also made appearances in the top five. The People’s Party secured multiple rankings with three prominent figures occupying sixth, eighth, and ninth places, reported The Nation. Here’s the breakdown of the top contenders: Paetongtarn Shinawatra: 4,764 points Pita Limjaroenrat: 2,991 points Chalermchai Sri-on: 1,355 points Pirapan Salirathavibhaga: 681 points Chuan Leekpai: 585 points Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut: 428 points Thaksin Shinawatra: 336 points Sirikanya Tansakun: 313 points Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn: 181 points Seripisut Temiyavet: 131 points By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-26

Thailand PM Waives Electricity Bills for Flood-Hit Regions File photo for reference only In a significant relief effort, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced that electricity bills for this month will be waived for residents in Thailand's flood-stricken northern and northeastern regions. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339089-thailand-pm-waives-electricity-bills-for-flood-hit-regions/

In a significant relief effort, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has announced that electricity bills for this month will be waived for residents in Thailand's flood-stricken northern and northeastern regions. Following a pivotal Cabinet meeting at Government House, the 38-year-old PM declared, “We are suspending the collection of electricity fees for this month. It’s a necessary step to provide immediate relief to those affected by the severe flooding.” Adding further support, October will bring a 30% reduction in electricity bills for these residents, as part of a broader relief package from the Interior Ministry. The Finance Ministry has also pinpointed support for small-scale farmers by introducing a debt moratorium through the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC), easing financial pressures during this crisis. Enhancing the government's disaster response, the Digital Economy and Society Ministry (MDES) is exploring the Thang Rath app for real-time emergency alerts, signalling the growing role of technology in managing natural disasters. “We need to ensure people get the information they need, fast,” emphasised PM Paetongtarn. Consequently, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation is advancing the Cell Broadcast Service to deliver more effective urgent warnings, ensuring quicker dissemination of critical information. These measures reflect Thailand's broader commitment to technological innovation and swift action in disaster management, aiming to better safeguard its communities against future calamities. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-25

Homeless woman with multilingual skills goes viral in Thailand Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A homeless woman with an extraordinary background and multilingual skills sparked significant interest after her story went viral on social media. An entrepreneur who frequently distributes his products to the community, encountered the woman while delivering meatballs and bubble tea to construction workers in Nakhon Sawan. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339088-homeless-woman-with-multilingual-skills-goes-viral-in-thailand/

A homeless woman with an extraordinary background and multilingual skills sparked significant interest after her story went viral on social media. An entrepreneur who frequently distributes his products to the community, encountered the woman while delivering meatballs and bubble tea to construction workers in Nakhon Sawan. The entrepreneur, Apisit Khongsin, who owns a meatball and bubble tea business, first met the homeless woman, Manatsanun, at a pavilion in Phra Non subdistrict, Mueang district. Struck by her politeness and fluency in multiple languages, he decided to film and share her story on social media. This video quickly became viral, capturing the attention of netizens who were curious about her background. Manatsanun, it turns out, is no ordinary individual. Contrary to the typical image of a homeless person, she possesses impressive linguistic abilities and an educated demeanour. She can read English fluently and converse in Finnish, among other languages. Apisit discovered that she had studied abroad and previously worked in foreign countries, adding to the intrigue surrounding her story. “I was astonished to see her read the English brand names of my bubble tea effortlessly.” As her video gained traction online, it reached the woman’s relatives, who confirmed that Manatsanun had indeed lived and studied abroad. Her family, currently residing overseas, revealed that Manatsanun returned to Thailand due to health issues, including depression, which eventually led her to leave her home in Bangkok several months ago. Efforts to reconnect Manatsanun with her family have been challenging, as she seems reluctant to return. Despite her family’s concerns and their desire for her to resume treatment for her depression, Manatsanun insists she is content with her current situation. Apisit, who sympathises with her plight, has hired her as a brand ambassador for his business, hoping to provide her with some financial stability and a potential path to a better living. “Manatsanun appears happy where she is and doesn’t wish to move. I want her to have a good place to stay, so I plan to help her find a decent rental in the future.” Apisit also appealed to the public to respect Manatsanun’s privacy, particularly at night, as she prefers not to be disturbed. He stressed the importance of not distressing her, given her familiarity and comfort with him. He continues to coordinate with her family to find the best way to support her, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-25

Bangkok Factory Raided for Illegal Beauty and Sex Enhancement Goods File photo for reference only In a major crackdown, officers from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) and the Food and Drug Administration raided an unregistered factory in Samut Prakan's Bang Pli district on September 24. The factory, operated by 31-year-old Nalita, was found producing illegal sex enhancement and beauty products which could pose serious health risks to consumers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339083-bangkok-factory-raided-for-illegal-beauty-and-sex-enhancement-goods/

In a major crackdown, officers from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) and the Food and Drug Administration raided an unregistered factory in Samut Prakan's Bang Pli district on September 24. The factory, operated by 31-year-old Nalita, was found producing illegal sex enhancement and beauty products which could pose serious health risks to consumers. Upon receiving a tip-off, the authorities investigated the premises and discovered workers in the act of boiling, stirring, and packaging illegal goods. Parts of the facility were under renovation, pointing to the operation’s profitability. Nalita attempted to conceal the illicit items amidst cardboard boxes, but officers successfully unearthed 17,000 products valued at over 2 million baht. Seized items included 10 kilogrammes of SM brand cosmetics, 1,000 kilogrammes of cream, 4,950 soaps, and 12,960 bottles of Zeus Man moisturising spray, the latter falsely advertised for sex enhancement purposes. Production machinery including boilers, mixing machines, raw materials, and packaging equipment were also confiscated. Though Nalita has not yet been formally charged, the illicit products and machinery have been transferred to the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) for further investigation. This raid follows a similar bust on September 10 by the Investigation Department of the Metropolitan Bureau (IDMB) in Bangkok’s Tungkru district, where illegal medicine worth over 30 million baht was seized. The contraband included Viagra, painkillers, herbal remedies, and even had hazardous items such as a dead lizard found in petroleum jelly. These operations highlight the ongoing efforts by Thai authorities to clamp down on illegal and dangerous consumer products, protecting public health and maintaining safety standards. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-25

Russian fined 5,000 baht after driving dangerously on Koh Samui - video Photo via Facebook/ สถานีตำรวจภูธรบ่อผุด RTP Cyber Village A Russian man yesterday faced a 5,000 baht fine after dangerous driving on Koh Samui, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani. Locals were impressed by the police’s swift action, though some felt the punishment was too lenient. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339082-russian-fined-5000-baht-after-driving-dangerously-on-koh-samui-video/

A Russian man yesterday faced a 5,000 baht fine after dangerous driving on Koh Samui, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani. Locals were impressed by the police’s swift action, though some felt the punishment was too lenient. A Thai woman took to a Facebook group called รวมพลคนสมุย (meaning Samui locals gathering) to expose the dangerous behaviour of the foreign driver, later identified as 30 year old Russian man Aleksandr Sharygo. The woman shared a picture of Sharygo’s yellow luxury car with a caption. “Foreign driver drove very dangerously and almost hit me. I saw him on the Fisherman-Bor Phut Road at about 7.30pm. Be careful, everyone.” She also included a video of Sharygo’s reckless driving in the comments section. The video showed the yellow Nissan car speeding and cutting off a truck in a narrow alley. The car was also seen parked in a prohibited spot on the road. Officers from Bor Phut Police Station conducted their investigation and discovered the luxury car parked outside a hotel in the area. The police checked the registration details and found that the Russian man failed to report the change of the car’s colour to the officials and had not paid the vehicle tax. The officers confiscated the car, prompting Sharygo to meet them later at the police station. Sharygo insisted that he obtained the car legally and had paid the required taxes. However, the records had not yet appeared in the system as the showroom had not finished preparing the ownership documents. Nevertheless, the failure to report the change in the car’s colour violated the Land Transport Act, resulting in a 5,000-baht fine. The police also warned the foreigner not to drive recklessly, as shown in the video, again. Sharygo admitted to his inappropriate actions and issued an apology to local motorists and pedestrians. Many Thai netizens were impressed with the police’s swift action, while others wanted the foreigner punished more severely. Some even urged police to confiscate the car to prevent him from repeating his dangerous driving on the island and possible accidents. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ สถานีตำรวจภูธรบ่อผุด RTP Cyber Village Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-25