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Weigh-station chief arrested for allegedly accepting bribes Photo: Thai PBS World The chief of a truck weigh-station in Ayutthaya province has been taken into custody, by officials from the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission and Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) officers, on charges of demanding bribes from truck owners. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337205-weigh-station-chief-arrested-for-allegedly-accepting-bribes/

The chief of a truck weigh-station in Ayutthaya province has been taken into custody, by officials from the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission and Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) officers, on charges of demanding bribes from truck owners. The suspect, only identified as “Noppadol”, is a senior mechanic attached to the Highways Department and chief of the truck weigh-station in Wang Noi. He was arrested at his home near the weigh-station this morning. About 40,000 baht in cash was found in his possession. The officials also searched his office at the weigh-station, where they found two handguns and a note book. A computer was also seized for examination. Photo: Thai PBS World Full story: Thai PBS World -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Swiss man in Phuket acquitted of assaulting doctor Photo: Thai PBS World Due to a lack of evidence, the Phuket Provincial Court acquitted a Swiss man today, who had been charged with assaulting a female Thai doctor when she has allegedly trespassed on his property. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337204-swiss-man-in-phuket-acquitted-of-assaulting-doctor/

Due to a lack of evidence, the Phuket Provincial Court acquitted a Swiss man today, who had been charged with assaulting a female Thai doctor when she has allegedly trespassed on his property. The incident occurred on February 24 at a pool villa housing project on Yamu Beach in Phuket. The Swiss occupant of the house, identified as David, was accused of kicking the back of Dr. Tharndao after finding her sitting on the steps leading up to his compound. The incident triggered an uproar among locals, who demanded the ouster of the Swiss national from Phuket and the revocation of his visa. It also led to an investigation into whether the luxurious housing estate was encroaching onto public land. The court found that there was insufficient evidence to support the assault charge and ordered his acquittal. Photo: Thai PBS World Source: Thai PBS World -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand's Prime Minister to Present New Cabinet Roster by Next Week File photo for reference only Thailand's Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is planning to present her new Cabinet lineup for royal endorsement by next week. However, there has been a change in the lineup, as future Deputy Minister Chada Thaiseth chose to withdraw his name from the list today. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337202-thailands-prime-minister-to-present-new-cabinet-roster-by-next-week/

Thailand's Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is planning to present her new Cabinet lineup for royal endorsement by next week. However, there has been a change in the lineup, as future Deputy Minister Chada Thaiseth chose to withdraw his name from the list today. Prime Minister Paetongtarn arrived at her temporary workstation at Shinawatra Tower 3 at 9:40 am today, September 3, and informed the press that the roster is ready for submission. She said, "I have a great team." When questioned about how she picked her ministers, the 37 year old PM said she examined each ministry and judged who was ready to work for the citizens. She had an opportunity to spot potential ministers during her three years in the Pheu Thai Party. Paetongtarn expressed her ambition to triumph in the next General Election, following the footsteps of her father, ex-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, so that the entire cabinet can be filled with members from her party, Pheu Thai. However, there are other political members in the government to whom she had to allocate some positions. The Thai Prime Minister reassured the public that the cabinet selection proceeded as planned, and soon the Secretary to the Prime Minister, Prommin Lertsuridej, will initiate the naming process. According to Channel 3, the cabinet led by Paetongtarn will be composed of 36 members, including: Deputy PM & Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai Deputy Defence Minister Nattapon Nakphanit Deputy PM & Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul Deputy Interior Ministers Songsak Thongsri, Chada Thaiseth, and Theerarat Samrejvanich Deputy PM & Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavachai Deputy Finance Ministers Phaopoom Rojanasakul and Ulapun Amornvivat Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan Deputy Commerce Ministers Napinthorn Srisappang and Suchat Chomklin Deputy PM & Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit Deputy Transport Ministers Manaporn Charoensri and Suraphong Piyachote Deputy PM & Energy Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga Industry Minister Akanat Promphan Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn Education Minister Permpoon Chidchob Deputy Education Minister Surasak Phancharoenworrakul Higher Education, Science, Research Minister Supamas Isarabhakdi Digital Economy and Society Minister Prasert Chantararuangthong Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat Deputy Agriculture and Cooperatives Ministers Akkara Prompao and Itthi Sirilatthayakorn Public Health Minister Somsak Thapsutin Deputy Public Health Minister Dech-it Khaothong Ministers Attached to PM's office Jiraporn Sindhuprai and Choosak Sirinin Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong Natural Resource and Environment Minister Chalermchai Srion Tourism Minister Sorawong Thienthong Culture Minister Sudawan Wangsupakitkosol Social Development and Security Minister Varawut Silpa-archa On a different note, although the PM stated that the list was solid, a sudden twist appeared this afternoon. Chada Thaiseth, a Bhumjaithai Party leader slated to be future Deputy Interior Minister, announced his withdrawal from the Cabinet. His position will now be filled by his daughter, Sabida Thaiseth. Before the list was made public, Chada faced accusations of not being eligible for a Cabinet position. He defended his qualifications and revealed his annoyance in a media interview. Despite this, he opted to withdraw his name, a decision he confirmed in a phone interview with PPTV HD today, though he did not disclose the reason for his withdrawal. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Man from Ratchaburi nabbed for online toy scam and dodging military service File photo for reference only A man from Ratchaburi, who was wanted for cheating people via a fake Facebook page and evading military service, was nabbed by police officers from Phetkasem Police Station. He caused considerable monetary loss to those he defrauded. The suspect is currently under the custody of Pak Tho Police Station for more legal action. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337201-man-from-ratchaburi-nabbed-for-online-toy-scam-and-dodging-military-service/

A man from Ratchaburi, who was wanted for cheating people via a fake Facebook page and evading military service, was nabbed by police officers from Phetkasem Police Station. He caused considerable monetary loss to those he defrauded. The suspect is currently under the custody of Pak Tho Police Station for more legal action. Phramot Janboonkaew, the Phetkasem Police Station's head, along with investigator Thawatchai Thipwong, spearheaded the arrest of Phanthawut Ponsrithong, a 24-year-old resident of Ratchaburi province. A warrant from the Thonburi Criminal Court, which was issued on August 28 and numbered 778/2567, led to Phanthawut's arrest. He was charged with fraud, specifically putting false information into a computer system with the intent to harm the public. Phanthawut was arrested at the Moo 3 area in Pak Tho sub-district of Ratchaburi province. He had used the name Nantakan Sangthong on Facebook and Instagram to create a fake page selling art toys, dolls, and collector's items. Several victims were tricked into sending money to Phanthawut's account and then blocked, so they could not ask for their money back. Victims realized the scam, collected evidence which included screenshots of the Facebook page and banking details under Phanthawut's name. They then made complaints and posted warnings online to inform others of the fraud. During the investigation, Phanthawut also admitted he had another arrest warrant for a similar scam in Songkhla province. And in addition, he admitted to avoiding military service for around two months. Phanthawut was turned over to investigators at the Pak Tho Police Station in Ratchaburi province for further legal process. The arresting team also arranged with military officials to take charge of Phanthawut in relation to his military evasion. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Family Day Turns Tragic as Boy Drowns at Kham Samboon Beach File photo for reference only BUENG KAN, Sept 2: A day meant for family joy ended in sorrow when a four-year-old boy drowned at Kham Samboon Beach. The tragedy unfolded while the family enjoyed a meal near the water. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337199-family-day-turns-tragic-as-boy-drowns-at-kham-samboon-beach/

BUENG KAN, Sept 2: A day meant for family joy ended in sorrow when a four-year-old boy drowned at Kham Samboon Beach. The tragedy unfolded while the family enjoyed a meal near the water. Yesterday, the Sawang Sriwilai Rescue Unit was alerted to the drowning incident at the beach in Bueng Khong Long district. Rescue workers swiftly coordinated with Bueng Khong Long Hospital and the Phu Langka HUB Network Association to respond. As emergency teams mobilised, medical staff dining nearby rushed to perform CPR on the child. According to Anan, a 47-year-old relative, the family had spent the morning at Chet Si Waterfall before moving to Kham Samboon Beach for lunch. The children, including the victim, were playing in the water with inflatable rings but without life jackets. Around 3pm, Anan realised one child was missing. Initial searches around the artificial beach proved futile. About 30 minutes later, he looked in the water, finding the boy submerged about 10 metres from shore and 1 metre deep. Despite immediate CPR efforts lasting 20 minutes, the boy could not be revived. The boy’s body was later returned to his family for religious rites. The incident serves as a sombre reminder of the importance of water safety. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Phitsanulok Faces Rubbish Crisis After Private Landfill Closes File photo for reference only Phitsanulok, 2nd September 2023 - Residents of Phitsanulok are grappling with a growing waste problem after a private landfill closure led to a halt in rubbish collection. The provincial governor has issued a directive urging local authorities to find immediate solutions. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337198-phitsanulok-faces-rubbish-crisis-after-private-landfill-closes/

Phitsanulok, 2nd September 2023 - Residents of Phitsanulok are grappling with a growing waste problem after a private landfill closure led to a halt in rubbish collection. The provincial governor has issued a directive urging local authorities to find immediate solutions. Over the past week, rubbish has piled up along the canal road behind Naresuan University in Tha Pho, Mueang district. These heaps, left uncollected, emit a strong stench, causing significant distress for locals. The issue began when the private landfill, previously handling the waste, shut down at the end of last month. While Phitsanulok Municipality continues daily pickups, other local entities have struggled. The Tha Pho Subdistrict Administrative Organisation (SAO) announced it could no longer collect rubbish due to the landfill's closure. Consequently, large piles of waste started to accumulate, particularly near Naresuan University’s Gate 4. Residents, left with few alternatives, have taken to dumping rubbish in various locations, exacerbating the problem. Local shop owner Kongkit Thakaew voiced his complaints, describing how the waste buildup near his motorcycle repair shop has forced him to hire private collectors. “Since the SAO stopped collecting, rubbish has been piling up here. People come by on motorcycles, cars, and pickups to dump their waste. It’s never been collected, and the smell is unbearable,” explained Kongkit. The dire situation prompted Phitsanulok’s Governor, Phusit Somchit, to clarify the landfill closure stems from the soon-to-expire contract on September 30. This expiration affects 32 local government organisations and Naresuan University, leaving them without a disposal site. Governor Phusit stressed the need for households to separate waste into categories: wet, recyclable, and Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF), to reduce the disposal volume. He has called for an urgent meeting to explore new dumping sites or collective waste management solutions. Despite slow progress on establishing a waste-to-energy plant, proposed by Hua Ro Subdistrict Municipality, private efforts to manage waste have emerged. Some businesses now purchase household waste for disposal, although illegal dumping persists. In response, several SAOs have started implementing measures. Tha Pho SAO aims to resume weekly collections, Tha Thong SAO has begun daily pickups, and Bueng Phra SAO promotes source separation with collections on specific days. The community remains hopeful that these steps will alleviate the mounting rubbish crisis, restoring cleanliness and reducing the foul odours plaguing residents. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Nong Cartoon’s mother gives up after decade-long legal battle Photo courtesy of KhaoSod The mother of a 6 year old girl has decided to give up after a decade-long battle for justice. The young girl was left bedridden and severely disabled after a reckless drunk driver crashed into a steakhouse at the entrance of Soi Ekachai 119, 10 years ago. Nong Cartoon’s father was killed in the incident. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337196-nong-cartoon’s-mother-gives-up-after-decade-long-legal-battle/

The mother of a 6 year old girl has decided to give up after a decade-long battle for justice. The young girl was left bedridden and severely disabled after a reckless drunk driver crashed into a steakhouse at the entrance of Soi Ekachai 119, 10 years ago. Nong Cartoon’s father was killed in the incident. The driver received a one-year prison sentence and was ordered to pay 6 million baht in compensation but has evaded full accountability since his release. Nong Cartoon’s mother recently took to social media to express her frustration and sorrow. She explained that with the statute of limitations expiring in a few days, continuing the fight seems pointless. The incident occurred on September 19, 2014, and the legal recourse will expire on September 19. She poignantly summarised their ordeal by stating, “Fighting leads to loss, and not fighting also leads to loss.” The tragic story began when a modified pickup truck, driving under the influence, lost control and crashed into a steakhouse. The crash resulted in the immediate death of Nong Cartoon’s father and left the young girl severely injured. Nong Cartoon, only 6 years old at the time, suffered catastrophic injuries, including brain damage, leading to her becoming a bedridden patient. Her family’s life was irrevocably changed. “The result of street racing in Thailand: one dead, one child disabled. The punishment is merely a year in prison and no financial compensation, despite court orders. Despite the court’s order for the driver to compensate 6 million baht, he has managed to avoid payment through legal loopholes. By not owning any assets for ten years and enduring a subsequent three-year bankruptcy period, he effectively sidestepped his financial responsibilities. This has left Nong Cartoon’s family to bear the brunt of medical costs and life adjustments alone. Irrevocable damage The victim’s family has been shattered. The mother has had to find ways to finance her daughter’s lifelong medical care, a burden that is both financially and emotionally exhausting. Nong Cartoon’s brain was 75% damaged from the impact, rendering her unable to see, speak, or perform any bodily functions independently. Her survival is a daily struggle, marked by costly medical expenses and the constant care she requires. “If the victim has no money, they must endure the 10 years and then find funds to hire a lawyer to file for bankruptcy against the perpetrator.” Several lawyers have offered their assistance over the years but often had to withdraw due to their commitments and the financial strain involved. Nong Cartoon’s mother expressed deep gratitude for their help, though acknowledging the limitations they faced. The emotional toll on Nong Cartoon’s mother is immense. She described the pain of watching her child, who can only communicate through smiles and tears, without understanding the reasons behind her expressions. The thought of what will happen to her daughter if she can no longer care for her is a constant source of anguish, reported KhaoSod. “In reality, life doesn’t always have a happy ending.” By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Prawn stars: China approves import of live Thai giant shrimps Photo courtesy of KhaoSod China has approved the import of live Thai giant freshwater prawns, a significant boost for Thai farmers and the local economy. Thailand aims to enhance production and export efficiency to meet the increasing demand from international markets. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337195-prawn-stars-china-approves-import-of-live-thai-giant-shrimps/

China has approved the import of live Thai giant freshwater prawns, a significant boost for Thai farmers and the local economy. Thailand aims to enhance production and export efficiency to meet the increasing demand from international markets. The Department of Fisheries, led by Director-General Bancha Sukkaew, announced efforts to promote and improve the farming of giant freshwater prawns, a crucial economic aquatic species for Thailand. Thai prawns are popular among both domestic and international consumers. In 2023, Thailand produced 46,585 tonnes of these prawns from 12,127 farms, valued at over 8.659 billion baht. Of this, 4,711 tonnes were exported, generating an export value of over 568 million baht. Key export markets include Myanmar, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Malaysia, and notably China. China remains one of the primary markets with significant export value, and the demand for Thai giant freshwater prawns is expected to grow in the future. The Department of Fisheries is focusing on enhancing the export potential of live prawns. This initiative aligns with the policy of Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Thammanat Prompao, who is dedicated to elevating agricultural products to sustainably increase farmers’ incomes. The goal is to boost the production capacity of giant freshwater prawns to 55,000 tonnes. Recently, on August 23, the General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China (GACC) approved the inclusion of live giant freshwater prawns in the list of permitted import goods. The GACC also recognised 28 farms and seven aquatic packaging facilities in Thailand for exporting live prawns to China. This development is expected to significantly benefit Thai farmers by expanding their market reach and increasing their income. The approval from China underscores the importance of maintaining high standards in prawn farming and packaging to meet international requirements. Improve prawn farming Bancha Sukkaew highlighted the continuous efforts to improve prawn farming practices, ensuring that Thai prawns meet the quality and safety standards demanded by global markets. The Department of Fisheries is committed to supporting farmers through training and resources to enhance their farming techniques and output quality. The inclusion of Thai prawns in China’s import list is expected to open new opportunities for Thai exporters. The recognition of selected farms and packaging facilities will facilitate smoother export processes and help build stronger trade relations between Thailand and China. As the demand for Thai prawns continues to rise, the Department of Fisheries is optimistic about achieving the production target of 55,000 tonnes. This increase in production will not only meet the growing international demand but also ensure a stable and increased income for Thai farmers, reported KhaoSod. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

British man escapes serious injury in Patong Hill motorbike fire Photo courtesy of Phuket News A British man narrowly avoided serious injury when his motorbike skidded and caught fire on Patong Hill yesterday. The incident occurred as the 62 year old rider was navigating the downhill slope past the Tiger Temple Shrine on his way to Patong Beach. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337194-british-man-escapes-serious-injury-in-patong-hill-motorbike-fire/

A British man narrowly avoided serious injury when his motorbike skidded and caught fire on Patong Hill yesterday. The incident occurred as the 62 year old rider was navigating the downhill slope past the Tiger Temple Shrine on his way to Patong Beach. Patong police received the call at approximately 2.14pm yesterday, September 2. Upon arrival, traffic police, Patong firefighters, and volunteers from the Kusoldharm Foundation discovered the motorcycle engulfed in flames. The fire was swiftly extinguished, but the motorbike was destroyed by the time the flames were out. The rider, identified as Kevin Kelly, was travelling down Phra Baramee Road from Kathu when he lost control of his motorcycle. According to police, the bike skidded across the road surface, generating enough friction to ignite. Despite the dramatic nature of the accident, Kelly sustained only minor injuries. Officers transported the damaged motorcycle to Patong Police Station, where Kelly was requested to provide an official statement regarding the incident, reported Phuket News. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Puppies’ plight: Abandoned dog family found taped and in distress Picture courtesy of Thairath A heart-wrenching incident in Saraburi saw a mother dog and her nine puppies cruelly abandoned by the roadside, with the mother’s mouth and eyes taped shut. This act of animal cruelty has sparked widespread condemnation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337193-puppies’-plight-abandoned-dog-family-found-taped-and-in-distress/

A heart-wrenching incident in Saraburi saw a mother dog and her nine puppies cruelly abandoned by the roadside, with the mother’s mouth and eyes taped shut. This act of animal cruelty has sparked widespread condemnation. Amuwat Phothong, a Facebook user, shared photos and a video of the distressed animals. “The person who did this is very cruel and heartless. I can’t accept this as a dog lover. The puppies are safe now, and kind-hearted people are helping to find them a home. Thank you for your support.” The shocking discovery was made near the entrance of Wat Nong Kae in the Nong Kae sub-district, Phra Phutthabat district, Saraburi. Amuwat found the mother dog tied with tape around her mouth and eyes, and a nearby cardboard box contained nine crying puppies, estimated to be between two and three days old, still unable to open their eyes. The scene has provoked widespread outrage, with many condemning the act as both cruel and torturous to the animals. Upon learning about the incident, reporters reached out to Amuwat and visited the location for more details. Amuwat, a 29 year old man, recounted the events of the evening of August 31. Around 7.20pm, he was riding his motorcycle home and noticed the mother dog standing by the roadside, bound with tape. Stopping to investigate, he discovered the box with the puppies inside. Realising the severity of the situation, Amuwat contacted local rescue officials for assistance. The rescue team freed the mother dog from the tape binding her eyes and mouth, reported KhaoSod. Amuwat speculated that the person responsible for the cruel act intended to disorient the mother dog, preventing her from finding her way back home. He expressed his outrage in no uncertain terms. “The person who abandoned them went too far with their cruelty.” Fortunately, both the mother dog and her puppies have since found refuge. A friend of Amuwat’s, residing in Phra Phutthabat, has taken them in to care for them. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Thairath Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Cambodian Woman Found Dead in Suspected Murder at Lopburi Rental Room File photo for reference only A young Cambodian woman was found dead with multiple stab wounds in her rented room in Lopburi, Thailand, yesterday, sparking a suspected murder investigation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337119-cambodian-woman-found-dead-in-suspected-murder-at-lopburi-rental-room/

A young Cambodian woman was found dead with multiple stab wounds in her rented room in Lopburi, Thailand, yesterday, sparking a suspected murder investigation. Police rushed to the rented room in the Chong Sarika sub-district of Phatthana Nikhom district after Santi Phonruang, an investigator at Phatthana Nikhom Police Station, was alerted to the incident at 7.20am. The gruesome discovery was made by the victim’s sister upon returning from work. The deceased, a 30-year-old Cambodian national named Mab, was found lying face down in a pool of blood, with over ten stab wounds to her neck. Preliminary investigations suggest she resisted a violent attack, leading to her tragic death. The scene revealed no signs of theft, with items such as over 3,000 baht in cash and a gold necklace left undisturbed. Bare footprints and shoe prints at the scene indicated the presence of at least two attackers. While the exact motive remains unclear, investigators suspect the crime could have been sexually motivated. Mab’s sister, who shared the rental with her and another sibling, discovered the door ajar and the tragic scene inside after returning from a night shift. The police are now focusing on identifying the suspects and piecing together the sequence of events leading to the murder. Mab's body has been sent to the Forensic Science Department for further examination. Meanwhile, the community remains on edge, awaiting further updates in this distressing case. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Banks Launch Major Crackdown on Financial Scams File photo for reference only In a bold move to combat online financial crimes, the Thai Bankers Association (TBA) has blacklisted 15,000 individuals and suspended 34,000 bank accounts linked to call centre scams. TBA Chairman Payong Srivanich announced today, September 2, that the association’s new AI-driven tool, the Cross-Reference File (CRF) system, has been instrumental in unmasking these fraudulent activities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337118-thai-banks-launch-major-crackdown-on-financial-scams/

In a bold move to combat online financial crimes, the Thai Bankers Association (TBA) has blacklisted 15,000 individuals and suspended 34,000 bank accounts linked to call centre scams. TBA Chairman Payong Srivanich announced today, September 2, that the association’s new AI-driven tool, the Cross-Reference File (CRF) system, has been instrumental in unmasking these fraudulent activities. Over the past nine months, the CRF system has been meticulously analysing data from various commercial banks. Officially operational since last month, it has already started flagging and further suspending suspected mule accounts involved in money laundering schemes. Payong explained that the CRF system is an integrated hub, drawing information from commercial banks and the Anti-Money Laundering Office. This comprehensive approach has significantly bolstered efforts to identify and crack down on mule accounts. Deputy Governor of the Bank of Thailand, Ronadol Numnonda, lauded the commercial banks for their active cooperation with the central bank’s new anti-fraud measures. Since the CRF’s launch on August 1, banks have been intensively sharing information to tackle online fraud, shifting focus to the individuals behind these schemes rather than just their accounts. “One of the key strengths of the CRF system is its ability to swiftly pinpoint and block individuals suspected of using mule accounts before they can carry out further transactions or open new accounts,” Ronadol stated. He added that blacklisted individuals must engage with officials from the Anti-Online Scam Operation Centre to resolve their status before their accounts can be reinstated. This stringent action by the TBA marks a pivotal step in safeguarding the financial system against fraudulent activities, reflecting a robust stance against online financial crimes. The crackdown underscores an increasing commitment to protect Thai banking from exploitation by criminal networks. File photo for reference only -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai MP Ridiculed After Praising Himself on Facebook Photo: The Thaiger In an unexpected twist of online fate, Democrat Party MP Date-it Khaothong has found himself at the centre of social media mockery after inadvertently praising himself on Facebook. The mishap occurred amid political shifts, with Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leader of the Pheu Thai Party, being named Thailand's new Prime Minister, though she still awaits royal endorsement before officially assuming duties. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337117-thai-mp-ridiculed-after-praising-himself-on-facebook/