snoop1130

The race is heating up for the new virtual bank licences, with five heavyweight business groups ready to battle it out. Gulf consortium has already thrown its hat into the ring, according to Krungthai Bank (KTB) president Payong Srivanich. This power team includes Gulf Energy Development and PTT Group. Armed with a solid business plan and robust ecosystem that meets central bank regulations, the consortium is feeling confident, said Payong. “Our virtual bank aims to cater to unbanked and underbanked customers. Despite the higher credit risks, we are banking on innovative tech to manage these effectively.” Bangkok Bank (BBL) president, Chartsiri Sophonpanich, also expressed keen interest in virtual banking and is currently analysing customer segmentation. BBL ambitions to extend its customer base, ensuring financial inclusion in today’s digital age. However, Chartsiri stayed mum on potential tie-ups with BTS Group, saying there’s still time before the central bank’s deadline. The Bank of Thailand will close applications for virtual bank licences tomorrow. VGI, BTS Group’s advertising and financial arm, is eyeing virtual banking through a partnership with a local financial giant. With BBL’s strong ties to BTS Group, all eyes are on them as a potential partner. CP Group is set to enter the fray via TrueMoney, leveraging its retail network (think 7-Eleven) and collaborating with Ant Group, the Alibaba-affiliate. Meanwhile, SCB X teams up with South Korea’s KakaoBank and global player WeBank for a robust virtual banking bid. Gulf isn’t flying solo either, it’s partnering with KTB, Advanced Info Service, and PTT Oil and Retail Business. Sea Group (Thailand), linked to the Singapore-based Sea Group, is also in the license hunt, planning to tap into Shopee’s massive database to supercharge its virtual banking efforts. Sea Group already operates MariBank, which boasts a full digital bank licence from the Monetary Authority of Singapore, reported Bangkok Post. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of SCB Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-18

Government Announces 10,000 Baht Cash Handout for Welfare Recipients File photo for reference only Today, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra revealed a landmark decision to bolster the economy: a one-off 10,000 baht cash handout for welfare cardholders and disabled individuals. This initiative, part of a broader economic stimulus package, is scheduled to start on September 25, 2024, with the government allocating an estimated total of 145 billion baht for the programme. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338435-government-announces-10000-baht-cash-handout-for-welfare-recipients/

Today, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra revealed a landmark decision to bolster the economy: a one-off 10,000 baht cash handout for welfare cardholders and disabled individuals. This initiative, part of a broader economic stimulus package, is scheduled to start on September 25, 2024, with the government allocating an estimated total of 145 billion baht for the programme. The plan, set to benefit approximately 12.41 million welfare recipients and about 2.15 million individuals with disabilities, gained approval from key regulatory bodies, including the Office of the Council of State, the Bank of Thailand, and the National Economic and Social Development Council, ensuring its legal standing. In addressing possible concerns about the initiative's economic impact, the Prime Minister expressed optimism. She highlighted that these initial cash transfers, aimed at society's most vulnerable, are likely to see high levels of immediate spending, thereby driving economic stimulation effectively. Further details on the second phase of the government's digital wallet project will be elucidated by the Ministry of Finance in due course. This direct financial aid comes at a crucial time, aiming to provide much-needed relief and encourage consumer spending, potentially setting a positive ripple effect through the economy. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-17

Borderline chaos: Malaysian tourists banned from entering Thailand Picture courtesy of Nikkei Asia Border drama unfolded yesterday when 39 Malaysian tourists found themselves banned from entering Thailand, thanks to unresolved passport issues, outstanding tax debts, and past criminal records. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338434-borderline-chaos-malaysian-tourists-banned-from-entering-thailand/

Border drama unfolded yesterday when 39 Malaysian tourists found themselves banned from entering Thailand, thanks to unresolved passport issues, outstanding tax debts, and past criminal records. Kedah Immigration Director Mohd Ridzzuan Mohd Zain spilled the details yesterday, September 16, revealing an array of reasons for the entry denials. “We had 10 cases of damaged passports, torn, waterlogged, missing pages, and even scratches. “There were also 20 cases related to income tax arrears and nine cases involving Customs issues, making the cross-border journey even more challenging for those involved.” These discrepancies came to light through data from the Bukit Kayu Hitam Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security Complex. To avoid such holiday hiccups, Mohd Ridzzuan advises all Malaysians to verify their travel eligibility online using Immigration’s Travel Check System portal before setting off on international adventures. This year, Malaysia Day fell yesterday, September 16, coinciding with the celebration of Prophet Muhammad’s birthday, gifting Malaysians a three-day holiday, with some private sector employees enjoying an extended break today. According to The Sun Malaysia, nearly 100,000 Malaysian tourists flocked to southern Thailand during the holiday, pumping over 1 billion baht into the local economy. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Nikkei Asia Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-17

Flood Relief Hero: Chiang Rai Man Offers Free Water 24/7 to Residents File photo for reference only In an inspiring act of community spirit, local resident Peerapong Amornpich has stepped up to help his neighbours in flood-stricken Chiang Rai by offering round-the-clock access to free, high-quality filtered water. As recent floods have ravaged the Mae Sai district, destroying food supplies and cutting off utilities, Peerapong's initiative is a beacon of hope in trying times. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338433-flood-relief-hero-chiang-rai-man-offers-free-water-247-to-residents/

In an inspiring act of community spirit, local resident Peerapong Amornpich has stepped up to help his neighbours in flood-stricken Chiang Rai by offering round-the-clock access to free, high-quality filtered water. As recent floods have ravaged the Mae Sai district, destroying food supplies and cutting off utilities, Peerapong's initiative is a beacon of hope in trying times. Peerapong took to Facebook to announce his generous offer: “Open 24 hours. If tap water isn’t flowing, come to my house. Unlimited free filtered water from a high-quality underground source. The water pressure is strong, so it fills quickly. Don’t worry about time, the hose is over 50 meters long and can reach your car.” His offer extends not just to individual residents but also to local hotels and dormitories, promising enough water to meet the demands of the entire Chiang Rai area. "The underground water connected to the Kok River is plentiful enough to supply all of Chiang Rai," he assured. Peerapong also highlighted the minimal cost incurred to pump this water, likening it to the "volume of 100 Olympic-sized swimming pools". This allows him to provide the resource freely, a lifeline for many stranded by the floodwaters. He has even made special arrangements for those needing more significant amounts of water, offering to lend a food-grade plastic tank that fits a four-door pickup truck. This tank can be borrowed by hotels and other establishments, provided it is returned for others to utilise. Peerapong encourages anyone in need to contact him at his residence, Peerapong Corporation Co., Ltd., located at 99/9 Moo 4, Rim Kok subdistrict, Mueang district, Chiang Rai province 57100. He can be reached at his phone number: 084-8489-000. Amid the chaos and hardship wrought by the flooding, Peerapong's selfless gesture stands out as a testament to the power of community and the importance of helping one's neighbours in times of need. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-17

Wat Ratchabophit Bans Wedding Ceremonies Amid Social Media Buzz File photo for reference only In a bid to maintain its sacred integrity, the revered Wat Ratchabophit Sathitmahasimaram temple has officially banned wedding ceremonies and pre-wedding photoshoots. This announcement was made on September 15, quelling widespread social media rumours suggesting otherwise. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338431-wat-ratchabophit-bans-wedding-ceremonies-amid-social-media-buzz/

In a bid to maintain its sacred integrity, the revered Wat Ratchabophit Sathitmahasimaram temple has officially banned wedding ceremonies and pre-wedding photoshoots. This announcement was made on September 15, quelling widespread social media rumours suggesting otherwise. The temple, known for its tranquil grounds and stunning architecture, emphasized that only activities in line with Buddhist traditions would be allowed, and even those require prior approval. “Wedding ceremonies? Absolutely not!”, declared the temple. Only merit-making activities, like offering alms to monks or chanting scriptures, will be permitted within the hallowed halls. The establishment explicitly stated that ring exchanges, water-pouring rituals, and similar nuptial activities are strictly out of bounds. Addressing the swirling misinformation, the temple warned against unauthorized gossip, cautioning that spreading false claims is strongly disapproved. They also issued a stern reminder to visitors: staff are under strict orders not to accept cash or gifts related to merit-making activities. The bans extend to commercial endeavours as well. Photography, videography, and product advertising that might disrupt the temple's peace and sanctity are forbidden. Any behaviour seen as inappropriate could prompt local government intervention. Visitors are urged to dress modestly and respect Thai traditions. Couple photoshoots and entertainment activities using sacred sites as backdrops are prohibited, and disturbing monks or worshippers is strictly forbidden. The temple firmly stressed its non-affiliation with any businesses claiming to offer religious ceremonies or weddings. Misleading claims would face investigations and potential legal action. For any suspicious activities or misleading claims, the temple urges people to report to the Special Affairs Group at the Secretariat of the Supreme Patriarch. The temple’s message is clear: uphold the sanctity of Wat Ratchabophit — a place for worship and spiritual solace, not wedding fantasies. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-17

Bangkok Unveils 'Good Walk' Zones in Phra Khanong, Bang Na File photo for reference only The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is set to transform Phra Khanong and Bang Na into a pedestrian-friendly area, hoping to foster a healthier, greener lifestyle. Deputy Bangkok Governor Tavida Kamolvej announced the ambitious plans during an event at Ban Jirayu-Poonsup Library on Sunday, September 15. The initiative, a part of the Walk-Ride-Run campaign, is organised by Chulalongkorn University's Urban Design and Development Centre (UDDC) in collaboration with the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338430-bangkok-unveils-good-walk-zones-in-phra-khanong-bang-na/

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is set to transform Phra Khanong and Bang Na into a pedestrian-friendly area, hoping to foster a healthier, greener lifestyle. Deputy Bangkok Governor Tavida Kamolvej announced the ambitious plans during an event at Ban Jirayu-Poonsup Library on Sunday, September 15. The initiative, a part of the Walk-Ride-Run campaign, is organised by Chulalongkorn University's Urban Design and Development Centre (UDDC) in collaboration with the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth). The plan leverages the strong public transport links in the two districts, making it easy for residents to ditch their cars. Tavida outlined the scheme to create 'Good Walk' zones, aiming to encourage walking, running, and biking activities. As a pilot programme, it marks the first step in the city's broader mission to enhance liveability. The UDDC and ThaiHealth demonstrated their vision by hosting various activities on Sunday morning. Participants began at 7am and followed routes designed for different fitness levels. Walkers enjoyed a 2-kilometre stroll passing landmarks like Iam Sombat Market and Suan Ploen Phakhanong Park. Cyclists embarked on a 20-kilometre ride, while runners tackled a 12-kilometre course, weaving through key areas such as Udomsuk Road and True Digital Park. This initiative represents a significant move towards a more pedestrian-centric urban environment, inviting Bangkok residents to embrace a cleaner, more active lifestyle. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-17

Thailand’s Aviation Set to Soar Amid Rapid Travel Revival File photo for reference only Thailand’s aviation sector is ready to soar, fuelled by a surge in air travel and jet fuel demand, according to Bangkok Aviation Fuel Services Plc (BAFS). The refuelling giant, which serves Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports, is eyeing a bright future as the aviation industry bounces back from the pandemic slump. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338428-thailand’s-aviation-set-to-soar-amid-rapid-travel-revival/

Thailand’s aviation sector is ready to soar, fuelled by a surge in air travel and jet fuel demand, according to Bangkok Aviation Fuel Services Plc (BAFS). The refuelling giant, which serves Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports, is eyeing a bright future as the aviation industry bounces back from the pandemic slump. BAFS President ML Nathasit Diskul revealed the company’s impressive expected 18% year-on-year revenue growth, forecasting a staggering 3.6 billion baht this year. "One of the key reasons for this trend is the increase in air travel, which has driven up jet fuel consumption," said Diskul. Between January and June, Thailand’s jet fuel usage skyrocketed by 17%, reaching an impressive 15.7 million litres per day, up from 13.5 million litres, according to the Department of Energy Business. A booming tourist season, visa-free entry, and an uptick in flights over extended holidays have all contributed to this surge. Looking ahead, BAFS projects a 16% jump in jet fuel sales in 2024, expecting to pump 5 billion litres, up from last year’s 4.3 billion litres. With the aviation sector picking up steam, the Bank of Thailand noted a rise in foreign tourists in July, with 3.1 million arrivals, up from 2.7 million in June. Visitors primarily from Malaysia, China, Russia, and Europe helped drive these numbers, despite a slight dip from Middle Eastern and Indian tourists. Airports of Thailand (AoT) also has ambitious plans to upgrade Suvarnabhumi Airport’s capacity to accommodate 80 million passengers annually by 2031. This follows the opening of a new satellite terminal last year, boosting capacity from 45 million to 60 million. AoT President Kerati Kijmanawat emphasized the company’s goal to see Suvarnabhumi among the top 20 airports worldwide within five years. With both BAFS and AoT committed to scaling up operations, Thailand’s aviation sector appears to be on a clear path to recovery and growth, ushering in a new era of heightened connectivity and bustling travel activity. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-17

Thai Nationals Risk Execution Over Drug Trafficking in Indonesia File photo for reference only Two Thai nationals, Rachanon Jongseeha and Woranawan Wongsuwan, could face execution in Indonesia after being apprehended with drugs. The pair, aged 33 and 31 respectively, were among six people arrested in Bali on drug charges last week, highlighting Indonesia's unwavering stance on narcotics. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338427-thai-nationals-risk-execution-over-drug-trafficking-in-indonesia/

Two Thai nationals, Rachanon Jongseeha and Woranawan Wongsuwan, could face execution in Indonesia after being apprehended with drugs. The pair, aged 33 and 31 respectively, were among six people arrested in Bali on drug charges last week, highlighting Indonesia's unwavering stance on narcotics. Jongseeha and Wongsuwan were caught at Bali's Ngurah Rai Airport on 8 September with 1.9 kilogrammes of methamphetamines and ecstasy powder disguised in 108 sachets of a fruit-flavoured collagen drink, and 20 ecstasy pills. Indonesian authorities, led by provincial anti-narcotics chief Rudy Ahmad Sudrajat, managed the arrests. Two local men were also detained, accused of ordering the drugs from Thailand. Under Indonesia’s harsh anti-drug laws, Jongseeha, Wongsuwan, and the local men could face execution by firing squad if found guilty. Indonesia's staunch approach to drug offences isn’t new. This crackdown in Bali comes amidst a backdrop of stringent enforcement. Notably, in November 2019, two Thai nationals received 16-year prison sentences for smuggling a kilogramme of methamphetamine. This dramatic case follows the July arrests of two Europeans also involved in drug-related offences. A Latvian man, identified only as VS, was nabbed at Bali airport with a significant stash of hashish and marijuana and potentially faces life imprisonment. Likewise, Swedish national SUE was detained in Gianyar with 201.28 grammes of hashish and could be sentenced to up to 15 years. Indonesia remains unyielding in its fight against drugs, with several convicted smugglers awaiting execution. The nation's last executions occurred in July 2016, casting a long shadow over current cases. In May 2019, a Frenchman sentenced to death for smuggling 3 kilogrammes of ecstasy saw his sentence reduced to 19 years, spotlighting the country's fierce judicial system. As Jongseeha and Wongsuwan brace for their trial, the global community watches closely, wary of Indonesia’s relentless pursuit of drug-related justice. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-17

Thai woman caught lying on baggage conveyor at Krabi Airport Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A video of a Thai woman lying on a baggage conveyor belt at Krabi Airport has gone viral, drawing heavy criticism on social media. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338424-thai-woman-caught-lying-on-baggage-conveyor-at-krabi-airport/

A video of a Thai woman lying on a baggage conveyor belt at Krabi Airport has gone viral, drawing heavy criticism on social media. The incident, which occurred yesterday, September 16, was shared by the account @RedSkullxxx with the caption, “Can you lie down like this? I saw it on Instagram, it seems to be a Thai at Krabi Airport.” The clip shows a woman in a white long-sleeved shirt, shorts, and a hat, lying comfortably on the conveyor belt. She appears to be enjoying herself, resting her chin on her hands and swaying her head back and forth. The video, posted on the former social media platform Twitter, now X, has sparked a significant backlash from netizens. “Are we allowed to do this in an airport?” one user commented, highlighting the clear signage around the baggage area prohibiting sitting on the conveyor belt. Many echoed this sentiment, calling for stricter enforcement of airport regulations. “Content like this should be punished by law,” another user remarked, criticising the woman for creating disruptive content. The sentiment was widely shared, with many calling for police intervention and fines for such behaviour. The criticism extended to questioning the safety and appropriateness of such actions in a public space, with comments describing it as ignorant and inconsiderate. One user pointed out, “It’s like lying in the middle of the road. It’s common sense that it’s dangerous and inappropriate.” There were also concerns about the potential dangers involved, such as the possibility of getting injured by the machinery. “Where is the safety awareness? This is trashy content,” a comment read, expressing shock at the lack of safety considerations. The incident has prompted calls for the relevant authorities to investigate and take appropriate action, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-17

Lopburi police conduct drug tests on public transport drivers Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Lopburi’s Tourist Police, along with other relevant agencies, conducted drug tests on public transport drivers yesterday. The operation, led by Saksila Phueak-am and other senior officers, aimed to ensure road safety for tourists and commuters. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338423-lopburi-police-conduct-drug-tests-on-public-transport-drivers/

Lopburi’s Tourist Police, along with other relevant agencies, conducted drug tests on public transport drivers yesterday. The operation, led by Saksila Phueak-am and other senior officers, aimed to ensure road safety for tourists and commuters. Police and health officials from Lopburi, along with transport and municipal officers, collaborated to test the physical fitness of public transport drivers in the area. This included urine tests to detect drug use and checks on driving licences. The initiative aimed to prevent accidents and incidents on the roads, thereby enhancing safety for tourists and public transport users. The testing took place at Lopburi Bus Terminal, with 50 drivers screened. Results showed no drivers tested positive for drugs. The police also used this opportunity to educate both passengers and drivers about the laws concerning drug use and the dangers associated with it. They promoted the emergency hotline 1155 for further assistance, reported KhaoSod. Lopburi’s Tourist Police Chief, Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksila, alongside Police Major General Mom Luang Santhikorn Worawan, and Police Colonel Man Rotthong, spearheaded the operation. They were joined by Police Lieutenant Colonel Phatthanaphong Siricharoennam and Police Lieutenant Issara Ngampiam, who led teams from various local agencies to carry out the comprehensive checks. In related news, at the heart of Phuket‘s east coast, a pivotal marine tourism hub, Ratsada Pier, was the scene of a surprise drug testing operation today. The results revealed a shocking find – one out of the 18 boat captains and crew members tested had traces of drugs in their system. The harbour, also known as Rassada Harbour, is managed by Seatran Travel and is a bustling centre of marine activity with at least 29 scheduled departures daily. This does not include any additional chartered vessels that utilise the pier. During a routine boat safety inspection, Prawet Suphachai, Director of the Regional Harbor Office 5, and Phuket Marine Office Chief Natchapong Pranit noted that over 5,000 individuals were commuting daily via boats to and from Ratsada. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-17

Mentally unstable Thai woman causes stir at Sisaket university Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A mentally unstable woman caused a commotion at a university sports field, claiming she needed to catch a flight to assist with flood relief in Chiang Rai. Police were called to the scene, and she was taken to a hospital for further care. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338422-mentally-unstable-thai-woman-causes-stir-at-sisaket-university/

A mentally unstable woman caused a commotion at a university sports field, claiming she needed to catch a flight to assist with flood relief in Chiang Rai. Police were called to the scene, and she was taken to a hospital for further care. Police in Mueang Sisaket received a report on Sunday, September 15 about a woman, believed to be mentally unstable, walking topless on a university football field. The officers quickly informed their superiors and headed to the location. Upon arrival, they found the woman, estimated to be around 40 years old, standing in the middle of the field in the rain. She was wearing green trousers and a purple camisole. The police, along with university security staff, worked together to calm her down. Security personnel at the university provided more details about the incident. Earlier in the morning, the woman had entered the university grounds barefoot but dressed in normal attire. When she first walked in, security tried to stop her but she retaliated by hitting them with a tree branch. As the security staff were hesitant to physically restrain her, they promptly called the police for assistance. The woman claimed she was headed to the airport to catch a flight to Chiang Rai, where she intended to help with flood relief efforts. She mentioned that she had already prepared aid supplies and only needed to make a phone call to coordinate the relief operations. “The woman said she was going to the airport to fly to Chiang Rai and help with the flood relief. She was ready with supplies and just needed to make a call for further instructions.” Initially, the police took the woman to Sisaket Hospital for evaluation and treatment. They planned to contact her relatives for further assistance and to ensure she received the necessary care, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-17

Wired up: Jobless man arrested for stealing 208 metres of copper in Bangkok Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police arrested a man suspected of stealing copper wire totalling over 208 metres from the Ong Ang canal in Bangkok, valued at more than 180,000 baht. The suspect claimed he resorted to theft after losing his job. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338420-wired-up-jobless-man-arrested-for-stealing-208-metres-of-copper-in-bangkok/

Police arrested a man suspected of stealing copper wire totalling over 208 metres from the Ong Ang canal in Bangkok, valued at more than 180,000 baht. The suspect claimed he resorted to theft after losing his job. Police Major General Samart Promchat, Deputy Police Major General Narit Pratthanaporn, and Police Colonel Pawat Watsupattra from the Phra Ratchawang Police Station yesterday, September 16, received a report from Deputy Police Chief Paisan Detkanya and Police Captain Phlawat Khonkla. The officials worked together to apprehend Kai Anudam, a 27 year old Laotian, on charges of nighttime theft and possession of public property. He was arrested on Ratchawong Road in the Samphanthawong district of Bangkok, following an arrest warrant issued by the Criminal Court on September 13. The investigation began on September 4, when a municipal officer received a report from the Phra Nakhon District Office. Residents had complained about the theft of copper wire, totalling 208 metres and valued at 180,000 baht, from the Ong Ang canal area. The officer reported the theft to the Phra Ratchawang Police Station, prompting a thorough investigation to identify and apprehend the suspect. The police found that an unidentified man had used a blue Honda Wave 125i motorcycle with the registration plate 6KSH7994 Bangkok to commit the theft. After gathering evidence, the police obtained a court-issued arrest warrant. Yesterday afternoon, the arresting officers received a tip-off from an informant about a man matching the suspect’s description near Ratchawong Road in Samphanthawong district. They also located the motorcycle used in the crime. Upon locating the suspect, the officers identified themselves and requested to search him. The man was identified as Kai Anudam, a Laotian national, who admitted to being the person named in the arrest warrant. He was taken into custody for further questioning. In the investigation, Kai admitted to the theft, citing his unemployment as the reason for his actions. He revealed that he had been out of work for a year after previously working as a mask seller in Sampeng and Saphan Han areas. He claimed he needed money for daily expenses after losing his job. “I did it because I’ve been jobless for a year. I used to sell masks in Sampeng and Saphan Han, but I lost my job and needed money to get by.” Following his confession, Kai was handed over to the Phra Ratchawang Police Station for further legal proceedings. By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-17

Anti-money laundering complaint filed against Prawit Wongsuwon Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post A fresh anti-money laundering complaint has been lodged against former Thailand Deputy Prime Minister, and Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) leader, Prawit Wongsuwon, following the release of one of four controversial audio recordings. The complaint was submitted by Prompong Nopparit, former spokesman of the Pheu Thai Party, to the Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo) yesterday, September 16. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338419-anti-money-laundering-complaint-filed-against-prawit-wongsuwon/

A fresh anti-money laundering complaint has been lodged against former Thailand Deputy Prime Minister, and Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) leader, Prawit Wongsuwon, following the release of one of four controversial audio recordings. The complaint was submitted by Prompong Nopparit, former spokesman of the Pheu Thai Party, to the Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo) yesterday, September 16. The audio recordings were aired for the first time last Wednesday, September 11, on the Inside Thailand TV show, hosted by Danai Ekmahasawat. In one of the clips, a man whose voice closely resembles Prawit’s is heard asking about the repayment of money owed to him. The recording, however, lacks specific details regarding the origin or use of the money. Prompong indicated that the conversation in the clip suggests a demand for repayment, which he believes could constitute grounds for Prawit’s prosecution under the Amlo law. He urged an investigation into the matter, underscoring Prawit’s position as a political post holder who served in the Prayut Chan-o-cha government. “Amlo should trace Prawit’s money trail along with those of individuals named O and Pod, who were mentioned in the recordings and implicated in the repayment issue.” In response to the allegations, the PPRP has threatened to sue Danai, the acting director of MCOT Plc Co, which provides airtime for the Inside Thailand programme, for damages. PPRP Secretary-General, Paiboon Nititawan, announced plans to pursue legal action against the parties involved for wiretapping and disseminating content obtained from wiretapping. “Even though a coup announcement introduced the anti-bugging law, it remains enforceable today with the status equivalent to a Supreme Court ruling.” Following the release of the audio clips, Prompong also petitioned the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to initiate an ethics probe against Prawit. He remarked yesterday that the content of the recording has raised suspicions that the payment discussed might have originated from illegal activities, reported Bangkok Post. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-17