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Cluck’s up: Texas Chicken to fly the coop in Thailand after 9 years In a shock announcement, Texas Chicken has revealed that it will be shuttering all its outlets in Thailand by the end of this month, ending a nine-year run that has left fans of the crispy treat crestfallen. The bombshell was dropped on their official Facebook page, and there was no explanation for the abrupt exit. “It’s time to say goodbye to Texas Chicken after nine years of tasty memories,” the statement read, leaving fried chicken lovers devastated. Known as Church’s Texas Chicken in the States, this American fast food giant first spread its wings in San Antonio, Texas, before roosting its headquarters in Atlanta. Here in Thailand, it was the PTT Oil and Retail Business Plc (OR) that brought the beloved brand to the nation’s petrol stations, expanding its reach to community malls and beyond. The fast food chain was an integral part of OR’s strategy to diversify from its core oil business and into the ever-popular culinary market, reported Bangkok Post. Church’s Texas Chicken isn’t just clucking around in Thailand, the franchise boasts a presence in 26 countries worldwide. But alas, for Thai fans, the countdown to the last crunch has begun. So, mark your calendars and grab that final bucket, it’s your last chance to savour the finger-lickin’ goodness before Texas Chicken closes its doors for good in Thailand. The news of Texas Chicken’s closure will be good news to some parents worried about the welfare of their children. Today’s youth in Thailand face a startling reality. Their life expectancy may be shorter than their parents, largely due to health issues stemming from excessive junk food consumption. Over 39 million children under 5 are overweight, fueling a rapid obesity epidemic. A significant contributor is junk food marketing, targeting children who lack the cognitive skills to discern advertising intent. Marketers exploit this vulnerability, spending billions to shape future consumers. Fast food chains alone spent US$5 billion on youth advertising in 2019, according to CyberGhost. By Bob Scott Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-16

Asia-Pacific to tackle Thailand’s ageing population crisis Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Governments across the Asia-Pacific region are being urged to formulate strategies to address their ageing populations, with older people expected to make up nearly 20% of the region’s population by 2050. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338117-asia-pacific-to-tackle-thailand’s-ageing-population-crisis/

Governments across the Asia-Pacific region are being urged to formulate strategies to address their ageing populations, with older people expected to make up nearly 20% of the region’s population by 2050. Around 500 delegates from 38 countries have gathered on the Indonesian island of Bali for the 2024 Asia-Pacific Regional Conference (APRC) on Population Ageing. These delegates include experts, policymakers, UN representatives, international agencies, and civil society leaders from the Asia-Pacific. The three-day conference, concluding today, September 13, is themed Reframing Ageing. It is co-hosted by Indonesia’s Ministry of National Development Planning, HelpAge International, and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). The APRC aims to establish a knowledge base on elderly care and create a network to share good practices and expertise in the Asia-Pacific, promoting the development of elderly care systems and services. Pio Smith, the Asia-Pacific Regional Director for UNFPA, highlighted the urgency of addressing the region’s rapidly ageing population. “None is left behind. This conference is relevant for the Asia-Pacific because if we don’t have these conversations, we don’t have any kind of advocacy that is required by the world. “The Asia-Pacific is the most rapidly ageing region across the globe and that means that we need to have policies, plans, and strategies to help address the ageing population. “We shouldn’t wait until 2045 or 2050 because we know that there is a demographic dividend to reap now.” Smith advocated for immediate investments in projects to improve the quality of life of the elderly. Global ageing crisis A report from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) underscores the significance of this demographic trend. The Asia-Pacific is at the forefront of global ageing, with people living longer and birth rates declining. By 2050, one in four people in the Asia-Pacific will be over 60 years old. The population of older people in the region is expected to triple between 2010 and 2050, reaching nearly 1.3 billion. Countries like China, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam will experience this transition rapidly, while others, such as Indonesia, will see large elderly populations. This demographic shift will have broad social and economic impacts, influencing everything from urban planning to fiscal policies. Recognising and maximising the contributions of older people will be essential for sustainable development. Somchai Jitsuchon, a research director for inclusive development at the Thailand Development Research Institute, expressed concerns about the financial security of elderly Thais during the APRC. “Everybody should take care of themselves well to prevent themselves from getting non-communicable diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes, from an early age because treating those diseases is expensive.” Somchai also emphasised that as life expectancy increases, older adults are living healthier lives and possess more education and skills than before. However, the importance of saving from an early age cannot be overstated. “The money will help them in the future, especially when they are older.” The research director urged the government to promote saving and develop innovations to enhance the quality of life for the elderly, reported Bangkok Post. Cherian Mathews, Chief Executive Officer of HelpAge International, highlighted the role of civil society in caring for the elderly, shaping policies, promoting well-being, and reducing poverty and discrimination. “Civil society can help take care of the elderly, shaping policies and programmes that affect the elderly, helping promote the well-being and inclusion of older women and men, and reducing poverty and discrimination in their lives.” By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

People’s Party urges urgent rewrite of 2017 constitution Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The opposition People’s Party (PP) called on the government to prioritise the rewrite of the 2017 constitution as an urgent policy. The party, formerly known as the Move Forward Party, expressed doubts about the promised changes, citing the minimal mention and low priority given to the charter rewrite in the government’s recent policy statement. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338116-people’s-party-urges-urgent-rewrite-of-2017-constitution/

The opposition People’s Party (PP) called on the government to prioritise the rewrite of the 2017 constitution as an urgent policy. The party, formerly known as the Move Forward Party, expressed doubts about the promised changes, citing the minimal mention and low priority given to the charter rewrite in the government’s recent policy statement. Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, PP leader, criticised the government’s approach during the first day of a two-day parliamentary session dedicated to the government’s policy statement and subsequent debate. He challenged Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to explain, in her own words, why the charter rewrite is not being treated as a priority if the government fails to address this issue. “If the government cannot make the charter rewrite a priority, I will ask the prime minister to stop reading from her script and tell us why not herself.” The PP urged the government to reclassify the charter rewrite as an urgent policy alongside four amendment bills proposed by the party. Unlike the policy statement delivered by former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin in September last year, which listed the charter rewrite as one of his administration’s five urgent policies, the recent statement by the new Thai PM did not give it the same emphasis. This time, the statement only mentioned that the government would expedite the drafting of a people’s version of the constitution and make it as democratic as possible, without providing much detail. Political time bomb Phuthita Chaianuan, a PP MP for Chiang Mai, described the 2017 constitution as a political time bomb, criticising its allowance for judicial activism and military influence over government and the public. “This problem is evident but the government dares not even clearly talk about it. Why on earth does the charter rewrite now come after the middle- and long-term policy categories? And why does the government dare not pledge when to begin and finish it?” Phuthita also pointed out the lack of public participation in the new policy statement, which contrasts with previous promises. Earlier commitments included public involvement in designing the charter referendum question and drafting the new constitution. These elements, she noted, had disappeared from the current policy statement. “This makes me seriously doubt if the public will be allowed to take part in the charter rewrite, whether a new charter drafting assembly will be elected by voters, and if the promised charter rewrite will ever happen.” Prime Minister Paetongtarn delivered her policy statement in Parliament, focusing primarily on measures to improve people’s financial status and increase state income, reported Bangkok Post. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Mekong River Flooding Forces Evacuations in Nong Khai Photo: TNA NONG KHAI, Sept 13 (TNA) – Authorities in Nong Khai province have initiated evacuations of vulnerable populations, particularly in the Wiang Khok district, as the Mekong River continues to rise and inundate nearby communities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338109-mekong-river-flooding-forces-evacuations-in-nong-khai/

NONG KHAI, Sept 13 (TNA) – Authorities in Nong Khai province have initiated evacuations of vulnerable populations, particularly in the Wiang Khok district, as the Mekong River continues to rise and inundate nearby communities. With water levels reaching 13.28 meters at noon, exceeding the riverbank by 1.08 meters, flooding has become widespread. The rising waters have already overflowed drainage systems along the Mekong River in the Nong Khai municipality, causing significant inundation of the riverside road. Photo: TNA Full story: Thai News Agency -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Bt10,000 cash handout for disabled to be paid on September 25 - Pichai Photo: Thai PBS World Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira has revealed that 14.2 million vulnerable and disabled Thais will receive their 10,000 baht cash benefit from the digital wallet scheme on September 25, funded by the 140 billion baht supplementary budget for the 2024 fiscal year. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338108-bt10000-cash-handout-for-disabled-to-be-paid-on-september-25-pichai/

Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira has revealed that 14.2 million vulnerable and disabled Thais will receive their 10,000 baht cash benefit from the digital wallet scheme on September 25, funded by the 140 billion baht supplementary budget for the 2024 fiscal year. The remaining 30 million people who have subscribed to the scheme are unlikely to receive the money within this year, he added. Photo: Thai PBS World Full story: Thai PBS World -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

30 Karen tribespeople arrested in a Kanchanaburi national park Photo: Thai PBS World A combined force of military, police and park officials have arrested 30 ethnic Karen, for allegedly encroaching on Srinagarindra National Park in Si Sawat district of Kanchanaburi province, to build a settlement. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338107-30-karen-tribespeople-arrested-in-a-kanchanaburi-national-park/

A combined force of military, police and park officials have arrested 30 ethnic Karen, for allegedly encroaching on Srinagarindra National Park in Si Sawat district of Kanchanaburi province, to build a settlement. The officials also seized, from the 11 men, 10 women and 9 children, five guns, an electric chain saw, bullet-proof vests, communication gear, several knives and construction equipment. Veera Khunchairak, deputy director-general of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, told the media today that the Karen group is believed to be a cult, which is actively recruiting fellow Karen. Photo: Thai PBS World Full story: Thai PBS World -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Toddler Rescued from Locked Car in Chon Buri After Heart-stopping Incident File photo for reference only On Wednesday, panic erupted at Rin Thong Kindergarten in Chon Buri when a two-year-old girl was accidentally locked inside her mother’s car, with the engine still running. The incident occurred shortly after 24-year-old Pimlapas stepped out briefly to collect another child from a nearby house. Upon her return, she was horrified to find her daughter, Michel, trapped inside the vehicle. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338106-toddler-rescued-from-locked-car-in-chon-buri-after-heart-stopping-incident/

On Wednesday, panic erupted at Rin Thong Kindergarten in Chon Buri when a two-year-old girl was accidentally locked inside her mother’s car, with the engine still running. The incident occurred shortly after 24-year-old Pimlapas stepped out briefly to collect another child from a nearby house. Upon her return, she was horrified to find her daughter, Michel, trapped inside the vehicle. The car had automatically locked itself, leaving Michel stranded behind the glass. In a frantic attempt to rescue her, Pimlapas called for help, fearing for her daughter's safety as the car continued to idle. “I just stepped away for a moment, and the doors locked on their own,” the distraught mother recounted. Police and emergency services quickly arrived at the scene. Despite her predicament, young Michel remained surprisingly calm inside the locked car. The rapid intervention of a locksmith saw the car unlocked within a swift 15 minutes, much to the relief of the anxious mother. Picture courtesy: Pattaya Mail Pimlapas expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the emergency responders, saying, “I’m so thankful for their help. It could have been much worse.” This event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of leaving children unattended in vehicles, no matter how brief the duration. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Scammers Impersonate Nonthaburi Police, Alarm Residents File photo for reference only Nonthaburi, 5 October 2023 — A troubling wave of scam calls has swept through Nonthaburi, as individuals posing as police officers target residents. Over the past day, the Nonthaburi City Police Station has been inundated with calls from citizens confused and concerned about requests to verify their bank accounts. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338105-scammers-impersonate-nonthaburi-police-alarm-residents/

Nonthaburi — A troubling wave of scam calls has swept through Nonthaburi, as individuals posing as police officers target residents. Over the past day, the Nonthaburi City Police Station has been inundated with calls from citizens confused and concerned about requests to verify their bank accounts. The scammers, introducing themselves as Lieutenant Anchalee and Lieutenant Colonel Rattasart, have alleged that the residents were involved in money laundering. They then asked the victims to send their ID cards and follow online instructions for verification, creating a panic among the local population. Akrapong Detkul, a diligent radio officer on duty, managed over 30 such calls from anxious citizens. Speaking candidly, he confirmed, “People have been calling all day, checking if these officers are real. It’s clear that a call centre scam is behind this.” Notably, neither of the names used by the scammers belongs to real officers at the station. This alarming scam was not limited to Nonthaburi. Residents from provinces like Lamphun and Chon Buri also suffered, with reports emerging of significant financial losses. A Lamphun resident was deceived out of 40,000 baht (around £970), and another individual in Chon Buri was tricked into transferring 1,999 baht (about £50). One of the more severe cases involved a woman from Sakon Nakhon who lost 90,000 baht (approximately £2,190). In total, the Nonthaburi City Police Station recorded 34 related fraud cases in just one day. Thankfully, a few alert citizens managed to spot the scam before falling victim. Adding to the troubling trend, a medical technician in Buriram also fell prey to a similar scam, losing over 20,000 baht (£485). The victim, Yutthana, was misled by someone pretending to be an electricity authority officer. Sharing his ordeal, he urged the government to bolster security systems and protect residents from such predatory scams. As Nonthaburi grapples with this spate of fraud, authorities are urging residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities immediately. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Sukhothai Leader Arrested for Job Bribe Scandal, Admits Guilt File photo for reference only In Sukhothai, local administrative leader Narong (surname withheld) was apprehended yesterday for allegedly accepting bribes to secure job placements for residents' relatives but failing to deliver on his promises. This arrest follows an intensive investigation prompted by a complaint lodged with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338104-sukhothai-leader-arrested-for-job-bribe-scandal-admits-guilt/

In Sukhothai, local administrative leader Narong (surname withheld) was apprehended yesterday for allegedly accepting bribes to secure job placements for residents' relatives but failing to deliver on his promises. This arrest follows an intensive investigation prompted by a complaint lodged with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). In 2016, Narong reportedly demanded 50,000 baht from a resident to facilitate a job placement for their relative within the local administration. Narong admitted to accepting the money but claimed he returned the entire sum upon realising he couldn't secure the promised position. The affected party, feeling misled, filed a complaint which led to the issuance of an arrest warrant by the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Region 6. Deputy Commissioner Jaruengkiat Pankaew ordered swift action, and Police Major General Prasong Chalampin, along with Colonel Sanuwong Kongkain, coordinated the arrest and investigation. Narong was detained by the Anti-Corruption Division (ACD) and handed over to the NACC for further legal proceedings. Narong expressed surprise at his arrest, stating, "I did accept the money. However, when I couldn’t secure the position as promised, I returned the entire sum. I didn’t expect this to lead to my arrest." The police underscored their commitment to combating corruption at all levels, stressing the importance of maintaining public trust and the integrity of local administrations. This incident underscores a broader crackdown on corruption to ensure a fair and transparent administrative system for all citizens. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Launches Charming 5 Regions Tour to Revive Tourism Industry File photo for reference only Today, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to rejuvenate the nation’s tourism sector with its “Charming Thailand: 5 Regions” event series. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool announced that this campaign aims to spotlight Thailand’s cultural richness and modern attractions, projecting to draw over 147,000 visitors and generate upwards of 800 million baht in revenue. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338103-thailand-launches-charming-5-regions-tour-to-revive-tourism-industry/

Today, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to rejuvenate the nation’s tourism sector with its “Charming Thailand: 5 Regions” event series. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool announced that this campaign aims to spotlight Thailand’s cultural richness and modern attractions, projecting to draw over 147,000 visitors and generate upwards of 800 million baht in revenue. Tourism, a cornerstone of Thailand's economy, has faced recent challenges, but TAT’s new campaign promises a resurgence. The series will span September, bringing immersive cultural experiences and free concerts featuring well-known artists to five key regions. Visitors can look forward to engaging in “5 Must Do in Thailand” activities, including DIY art zones and interactive photo spots. Each region will host special events to display its unique charms: 1. **Southern Thailand’s Charming Khanom**: Nakhon Si Thammarat will host events from September 14-15 and 20-22 at Na Dan Beach, blending local charm with natural beauty. 2. **Northern Thailand’s HOP Chiang Mai Art and Music Festival**: Chiang Mai will welcome visitors from September 20-29 at Tha Phae Gate, showcasing vibrant arts and performances. 3. **Eastern Thailand’s Chon Buri International Music Festival in the Rain**: Pattaya will feature events from September 20-22 and 27-29 at Central Pattaya Beach, combining coastal allure with diverse music acts. 4. **Central Thailand’s The River of Time**: Kanchanaburi will host from September 22-30 at the Kanchanaburi Paper Factory, offering a historical journey through local crafts. 5. **Northeastern Thailand’s Isaan Muan Suen**: Khon Kaen will highlight regional culture from September 25-29 at Bus Terminal 3, with activities designed to engage and entertain. Thapanee expressed confidence that these events will not only attract visitors from near and far but also substantially boost local economies. By focusing on cultural “soft power,” TAT seeks to showcase Thailand’s diverse and rich heritage, appealing to a wide audience and ensuring a thriving tourism sector. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Consumers Shift to Essential Goods Amid Economic Concerns File photo for reference only In the face of growing economic uncertainty, Thai consumers are adjusting their spending habits significantly, as revealed by PricewaterhouseCoopers' (PwC) latest survey. With 54% of respondents expressing significant concern over macroeconomic volatility, a cautionary trend towards essentials spending is evident. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338102-thai-consumers-shift-to-essential-goods-amid-economic-concerns/

In the face of growing economic uncertainty, Thai consumers are adjusting their spending habits significantly, as revealed by PricewaterhouseCoopers' (PwC) latest survey. With 54% of respondents expressing significant concern over macroeconomic volatility, a cautionary trend towards essentials spending is evident. The "Voice of the Consumer Survey 2024: Asia Pacific – Thailand Snapshot" presented the findings, showing that economic uncertainty surpasses worries about inflation (53%) and cyber risks (41%). Pisit Thangtanagul, CEO of PwC Thailand, noted that Thais now seek value for money more than ever. Conducted with 504 participants between January and February 2024, the survey shows a shift in intent to increase spending on groceries (69%), health and beauty products (60%), and electronic devices (52%) over the next six months. Additionally, 40% of consumers are willing to switch to cheaper brands for better value. Social media has emerged as a leading shopping platform, with 73% of Thai consumers having made purchases through these channels, surpassing both regional (56%) and global (34%) averages. However, concerns about privacy and data security remain high, with 77% of consumers wary about data sharing on these platforms. Environmental sustainability also plays a crucial role in consumer choices. An overwhelming 95% of respondents acknowledged the impact of climate change on their lives, and over half are ready to pay an average of 11.7% more for sustainable products. The preference for eco-friendly options such as waste reduction, recycling, and sustainable packaging is on the rise. The survey also highlights substantial interest in electric and hybrid vehicles, with 79% of respondents showing interest in owning an EV or HEV. In light of these insights, Pisit stressed the importance of integrating data protection measures and sustainability initiatives to align with consumer expectations. He recommended the use of advanced technologies, including GenAI, and a balance between online and offline marketing strategies to boost customer engagement and trust. Thai consumers’ evolving spending patterns and concerns amid economic challenges call for businesses to adapt strategically, catering to both practical needs and eco-friendly preferences. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Squat’s going on: Thai couple trash house in Chiang Mai Photo via Chiang Mai News Police officers are searching for a Thai ladyboy and her boyfriend after the couple took over a house in the northern province of Chiang Mai, living there like homeowners for nearly a month. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338101-squat’s-going-on-thai-couple-trash-house-in-chiang-mai/

Police officers are searching for a Thai ladyboy and her boyfriend after the couple took over a house in the northern province of Chiang Mai, living there like homeowners for nearly a month. The rightful owner of the house filed a complaint with Mae Rim Police Station after learning about the trespassing couple from his gardener yesterday, September 12. The gardener finished his work and was about to leave the property when he noticed the back door was open. The gardener decided to enter the house and check inside. He found the house had been trashed, with rubbish and objects scattered across the floor. Suspecting an intruder, he reported the matter to the homeowner, who lives in another province. The homeowner revealed in an interview with Chiang Mai News that he bought the house 10 years ago and visits the property every three to six months. He hired the gardener to maintain the trees and grass outside the house twice a year. The homeowner contacted his neighbours and discovered that they also heard noises from the house. He asked the neighbours to investigate but the intruders managed to escape, leaving behind their belongings and a mess. Police inspected the house and collected rubbish, including soft drink cans, hair, underwear, and used cotton buds, for forensic analysis. Officers also found urine and faeces in several areas of the house because the intruders were unable to access water, as its main valve was shut off. Officers believe the intruders did not intend to rob the property, as all valuables were left untouched. According to the homeowner, the intruders might have sneaked into the property and stayed there for nearly a month before the discovery. The owner’s last visit was in July this year. Police requested to review security camera footage from locals in the area and discovered that there were two intruders, not just one. They were identified as a ladyboy and another man believed to be her boyfriend. In the footage, the ladyboy is seen wearing a black skirt and a purple T-shirt, walking out of the house calmly and pretending to be part of the community. However, locals confirmed that she was not a resident of the neighbourhood. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Chiang Mai News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Scammers arrested in Bangkok for conning elderly woman Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Thai police arrested a group involved in a romance scam targeting an elderly woman. The scammer, posing as a discharged soldier from Yemen, promised to transfer her US dollars but asked if she could pay currency tax on the money first, leading to the victim losing 23,000 baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338100-scammers-arrested-in-bangkok-for-conning-elderly-woman/

Thai police arrested a group involved in a romance scam targeting an elderly woman. The scammer, posing as a discharged soldier from Yemen, promised to transfer her US dollars but asked if she could pay currency tax on the money first, leading to the victim losing 23,000 baht. Police Major General Theeradej Thammasuthee, along with his team, yesterday, September 12, ordered the arrest of 22 year old Teerapat from Ubon Ratchathani. Teerapat was detained at a parking lot in Suan Phueng Pattanakarn, Bangkok, under charges of fraud and inputting false information into a computer system, which could harm the public. The case began when the 70 year old woman reported to the police that she had received messages from a Facebook user named Sansern Apichat. The scammer, claiming to be a discharged soldier from Yemen, convinced the victim he would send her money in US dollars. However, he deceived her into paying 23,000 baht in taxes to the Thai government, split into two payments of 15,000 baht and 8,000 baht. After making these payments, the victim could no longer contact the scammer, prompting her to file a complaint with the police. Teerapat confessed during the interrogation that he had encountered a Facebook post last year that offered money in exchange for opening bank accounts. He agreed to open three bank accounts and register applications linked to these accounts, receiving 3,000 baht for his services. “Initially, the suspect claimed he needed money and thus agreed to the arrangement, providing his bank details and setting up the accounts.” The police have transferred Teerapat to Khu Khot Police Station for further legal action. Police Major General Theeradej warned the public about romance scams, emphasising that these fraudsters often target individuals seeking love on dating applications and social media platforms. “Romance scammers use sweet talk and promises to lure their victims, who are often single, divorced, widowed, elderly, or simply vulnerable individuals looking for genuine connections. We urge everyone to be cautious online. Remember: ‘Don’t believe, don’t rush, don’t transfer money.’” The police are continuing their investigation to identify other members of the scam ring and to provide justice to the victims. They stress the importance of public awareness and vigilance in preventing such scams, encouraging people to report suspicious online activities immediately, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe