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Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English A heated debate over equal healthcare rights for prisoners was abruptly halted in Thailand’s Senate yesterday. Senator Angkhana Neelapaijit withdrew her motion, which aimed to address disparities in medical treatment between prisoners and prominent figures, such as former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Thaksin's six-month stay in a VIP hospital ward, instead of prison, has sparked criticism over perceived justice system double standards. Despite paying for his room, Thaksin's treatment stirred public debate over inequality. Angkhana cited insufficient evidence, especially regarding the death of activist Netiporn “Boong” Saneysangkhom, as the reason for her motion's withdrawal. Senator Nantana Nantavaropas critiqued Angkhana's decision, suggesting political pressure might be involved. Despite the setback, Angkhana remains determined to highlight healthcare inequalities with stronger evidence. The Senate voted 138 to 7 to withdraw the debate, with intentions to revisit the discussion once further evidence is collected, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-19

Loei Hit Hard by First Seasonal Rain, Numerous Accidents Reported Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Loei province was thrown into chaos as its first seasonal heavy rain triggered numerous car accidents, totalling over 50 in just one hour. The sudden rain transformed the roads across several districts into treacherous pathways. This seasonal downpour is infamous for reactivating layers of rubber residue from previous truck spills, which invisibly coats the roads but becomes dangerously slick upon mixing with water. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352283-loei-hit-hard-by-first-seasonal-rain-numerous-accidents-reported/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Loei province was thrown into chaos as its first seasonal heavy rain triggered numerous car accidents, totalling over 50 in just one hour. The sudden rain transformed the roads across several districts into treacherous pathways. This seasonal downpour is infamous for reactivating layers of rubber residue from previous truck spills, which invisibly coats the roads but becomes dangerously slick upon mixing with water. Yesterday, clashes were reported in districts such as Phu Luang, Dan Sai, and Mueang Loei among others. Police and rescue teams were quickly overwhelmed with emergency calls as drivers found themselves losing control on the suddenly hazardous surfaces. Though over 50 cars were damaged, miraculous co-ordination between rescue workers and emergency services ensured no lives were lost, although multiple injuries necessitated medical attention. Officials are urging local drivers to proceed with caution during the early days of the rainy season. Recommendations involve decreasing speed, maintaining greater distances between vehicles, and ensuring full alertness while driving in Loei. Meanwhile, long-term preventive strategies such as regular road cleanings and public safety campaigns are being considered by local authorities to prevent similar incidents in the future. The urgency for implementing these measures grows as yearly rainfall patterns continue to result in numerous accidents, reminding residents that a bit of vigilance can avert disaster, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-19

Bangkok's Chatuchak Market Revamp: 529 Stalls Face Relocation Photo courtesy of Wikipedia Bangkok's Chatuchak Weekend Market is set for a facelift, resulting in the relocation of 529 stallholders around the popular clock tower area by April 30. The directive, issued by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), is part of a redevelopment initiative planned by the market office. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352282-bangkoks-chatuchak-market-revamp-529-stalls-face-relocation/

Photo courtesy of Wikipedia Bangkok's Chatuchak Weekend Market is set for a facelift, resulting in the relocation of 529 stallholders around the popular clock tower area by April 30. The directive, issued by the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), is part of a redevelopment initiative planned by the market office. The announcement was made by the market office chairman, Suksan Kittisupakorn, at BMA's head office, addressing issues of transparency regarding the market’s management and the decision not to renew stall contracts. Concerns about the remittance of rent collected from vendors between 2019 and 2023 were also tackled, with Suksan denying any irregularities and explaining that all collected fees were appropriately processed. With the BMA as its operator, Chatuchak Market's underlying land is owned by the State Railway of Thailand, to which a significant annual fee is paid. The market has faced revenue dips due to reduced fees amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite this, the market office insists on its right to adjust and manage vendor agreements. The decision has sparked some discontent among vendors, leading them to petition for investigation. However, Mr. Suksan argues the relocation is necessary for enhancing accessibility and aesthetics, as the current setup has raised concerns over reduced space and ventilation. Stallholders have been given the option to relocate to alternative areas within the market without the usual fees. Although only a few vendors have taken up the offer, it remains available until the April deadline. Meanwhile, legal action is being prepared against those who defaulted on their rent. The redevelopment aims to transform the clock tower zone into a new tourist magnet, potentially revitalising the market's allure. The clock ticks as vendors prepare for the upcoming changes, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-19

Russian Tourist's Pattaya Adventure Sours with Luggage Theft Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News A Russian tourist's dream escape to Pattaya unravelled as a thief brazenly sliced open his suitcase, making off with over 100,000 baht in cash and valuables. Vladimir Tulayev, the victim of this daring heist, is left both frustrated and vulnerable after security cameras missed capturing the suspect. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352281-russian-tourists-pattaya-adventure-sours-with-luggage-theft/

Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News A Russian tourist's dream escape to Pattaya unravelled as a thief brazenly sliced open his suitcase, making off with over 100,000 baht in cash and valuables. Vladimir Tulayev, the victim of this daring heist, is left both frustrated and vulnerable after security cameras missed capturing the suspect. Tulayev, staying at a South Pattaya hotel, reported the robbery occurred on February 12 while he was in his room. The suspect, a Thai male, used a sharp object to infiltrate his luggage, stealing 40,800 baht, 26,000 rubles (about 9,600 baht), and US$1,500 (approximately 50,000 baht). The thief also took off with Tulayev's car and room keys, further compounding his predicament. Eager to resolve the issue, Tulayev lodged a complaint with Pattaya City Police on February 13. Yet, despite his proactive stance, the investigation has seen limited progress, leaving Tulayev increasingly anxious. His follow-up visit to the police on February 17 revealed a lack of crucial CCTV evidence, deepening his concerns for justice. Police are sifting through footage from nearby areas to identify the thief, while appealing for public assistance to crack the case. In the meantime, authorities are urging caution among tourists, advising the safeguarding of valuables to avoid similar mishaps. The incident serves as a stark reminder for visitors to take extra precautions, ensuring their holiday memories are filled with joy, not frustration, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-19

Pathum Thani Police Uncover Illegal Bitcoin Mining Setup Picture courtesy of MGR Online In an unexpected swoop, police in Pathum Thani have dismantled an illegal bitcoin mining operation nestled within a housing project. The raid, carried out by local officials and police, came after a tip-off from the Provincial Electricity Authority, which noted suspicious electricity use. The raid at a residence in the Bueang Ba subdistrict revealed 18 bitcoin mining devices and a laptop, all linked into an illicit setup. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352280-pathum-thani-police-uncover-illegal-bitcoin-mining-setup/

Picture courtesy of MGR Online In an unexpected swoop, police in Pathum Thani have dismantled an illegal bitcoin mining operation nestled within a housing project. The raid, carried out by local officials and police, came after a tip-off from the Provincial Electricity Authority, which noted suspicious electricity use. The raid at a residence in the Bueang Ba subdistrict revealed 18 bitcoin mining devices and a laptop, all linked into an illicit setup. Authorities noted that the electricity meter bore signs of tampering, indicating unauthorised consumption. The operation's annual electricity costs were staggering, surpassing 3 million baht, roughly equating to US$92,620. District officials, with Police Colonel Teerayut Sereinonchai, led the crackdown and found the equipment but no individuals at the scene. Sutthiporn Siwawetphikun, the district chief, confirmed that the clandestine mining had been quietly siphoning power for quite some time. The electricity authority is set to pursue legal action, ensuring the culprits face prosecution for their costly misconduct. This shutdown underscores the growing vigilance against illicit activities linked to cryptocurrency mining, highlighting potential vulnerabilities in utility oversight, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-19

Illegal Public Act in Bangkok Caught on Dashcam Goes Viral Photo via Facebook/ พชรดนัย ฯ. A Bolt motorcycle rider in Bangkok, Thailand recorded an explicit incident involving two men on a footpath in the city's Bang Khen district. The video was posted on February 18 to a Bolt Drivers Thailand Facebook group by the account พชรดนัย ฯ., and has drawn widespread criticism. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352278-illegal-public-act-in-bangkok-caught-on-dashcam-goes-viral/

Photo via Facebook/ พชรดนัย ฯ. A Bolt motorcycle rider in Bangkok, Thailand recorded an explicit incident involving two men on a footpath in the city's Bang Khen district. The video was posted on February 18 to a Bolt Drivers Thailand Facebook group by the account พชรดนัย ฯ., and has drawn widespread criticism. The dashcam footage shows the rider turning into an alley and spotting two men engaged in sexual activity. One of the men wore only a black T-shirt, while the other was entirely naked. Upon noticing the rider, the men began to move apart. The incident occurred near an empty motorcycle taxi shelter, under the light of street lamps, making it visible to anyone passing by. The Facebook post quickly attracted numerous comments, ranging from humor to calls for police intervention. Speculation arose that the men might have been filming content for online distribution. Under Thai law, public indecency is prohibited by Section 388 of the Criminal Code, carrying a fine of up to 5,000 baht. If the men were creating online content, they could face further charges under Section 14(4) of the Computer Crimes Act, with harsher penalties of up to five years in prison, fines reaching 100,000 baht, or both. Additionally, the Bolt rider who shared this video publicly could be subject to charges under the Computer Crimes Act for distributing explicit material. Thai police emphasize that such content should be reported directly to them instead of being shared online, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-19

Phuket's Bold Move: Massive Crackdown on Foreign Crimes Photo courtesy of The Phuket News Phuket is making headlines after police arrested over 100 foreign lawbreakers and issued 1,625 traffic fines in just one week. This decisive action, led by Police Major General Sinlert Sukhum, took place from February 10 to 16 and targeted a range of crimes including illegal businesses, visa violations, drug offenses, and reckless driving. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352275-phukets-bold-move-massive-crackdown-on-foreign-crimes/

Photo courtesy of The Phuket News Phuket is making headlines after police arrested over 100 foreign lawbreakers and issued 1,625 traffic fines in just one week. This decisive action, led by Police Major General Sinlert Sukhum, took place from February 10 to 16 and targeted a range of crimes including illegal businesses, visa violations, drug offenses, and reckless driving. In a coordinated operation involving Phuket Immigration and Tourist Police, authorities clamped down on illegal activities that jeopardize the safety of both residents and tourists. The crackdown forms part of a wider national campaign against transnational crime and unlawful foreign activities. Officers recorded 103 criminal offenses including: - 30 immigration law violations - 9 illegal tour operations - 8 unauthorized businesses - 8 drug-related offenses - 10 instances of drunk driving - 18 arrests on outstanding warrants - 20 various infractions - 1,625 traffic violations Since the start of 2024, Phuket police have arrested 2,422 foreigners and issued over 32,000 traffic citations, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-19 “Phuket police reaffirm our commitment to maintaining peace, order, and safety, ensuring the province remains a top travel destination,” Major General Sukhum emphasized. Tourists are being urged to comply with local laws, while residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activities involving foreigners to the nearest police station or via the 191 emergency hotline.

High-Profile Lawyer Gets Jail Time for Defaming Former Thai Official File photo for reference only High-profile lawyer Sittra Biabungkerd and businesswoman Chorchat Tochuwong have been sentenced to one year and four months in prison each. They were found guilty today of defaming Suphachai Phosu, a former deputy House Speaker, and two others. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352188-high-profile-lawyer-gets-jail-time-for-defaming-former-thai-official/

File photo for reference only High-profile lawyer Sittra Biabungkerd and businesswoman Chorchat Tochuwong have been sentenced to one year and four months in prison each. They were found guilty today of defaming Suphachai Phosu, a former deputy House Speaker, and two others. Sittra and Chorchat must also pay 1.1 million baht in damages to Suphachai, Suphanee Phosu, and Thanaboworn Sirikunakornkul. The court found the two held a press conference where they made false statements, harming the reputations of the three plaintiffs, reported Thai PBS World. -- 2025-02-18

Cambodia-Thai Temple Clash Over Singing Sparks Tensions Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A heated incident unfolded at the Ta Muen Thom temple on the Thai-Cambodian border when a Cambodian general and his group were stopped by Thai soldiers for singing Cambodia’s national anthem and patriotic songs. The standoff occurred at the southern terrace of the temple, located in Phanom Dong Rak district, Surin province. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352187-cambodia-thai-temple-clash-over-singing-sparks-tensions/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A heated incident unfolded at the Ta Muen Thom temple on the Thai-Cambodian border when a Cambodian general and his group were stopped by Thai soldiers for singing Cambodia’s national anthem and patriotic songs. The standoff occurred at the southern terrace of the temple, located in Phanom Dong Rak district, Surin province. Captured in a video, which went viral online, the disagreement saw a Cambodian lawyer engaging in a spirited exchange with the Thai military. The situation intensified as the Cambodian general, dressed in a white long-sleeved shirt, communicated with the Thai troops in both Thai and Khmer, expressing his displeasure and attempting to intimidate them. The general, identified as the commander of Cambodia’s 42nd Brigade, had led a group of 25, primarily housewives, for the temple visit on February 18. Displeased by the Thai military's intervention during their song session, the major general criticized the soldiers but was told they were following orders from superiors. In response, the general directed his unit stationed near the temple to adopt similar restrictions, prohibiting such activities like singing at the site’s southern staircase. This decision was made before the group returned to Cambodian territory. The confrontation almost escalated into a greater conflict, prompting a formal protest from the commander of Thailand’s 2nd Army Region. As of now, tensions remain high between the neighboring forces over this cultural clash at the historical site, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-18

Flu Alert: Over 1,000 Cases Hit Chaiyaphum, Schools Close Photo courtesy of The Nation Health officials in Chaiyaphum are raising concerns as influenza type A cases have soared past 1,000, with more than 500 infections reported at the provincial male prison in Mueang district alone. Dr. Suppapong Chaimongkol from the Chaiyaphum Public Health Office highlighted that the virus is spreading rapidly among children and inmates, prompting several schools to close and switch to online classes to prevent further transmission. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352186-flu-alert-over-1000-cases-hit-chaiyaphum-schools-close/

Photo courtesy of The Nation Health officials in Chaiyaphum are raising concerns as influenza type A cases have soared past 1,000, with more than 500 infections reported at the provincial male prison in Mueang district alone. Dr. Suppapong Chaimongkol from the Chaiyaphum Public Health Office highlighted that the virus is spreading rapidly among children and inmates, prompting several schools to close and switch to online classes to prevent further transmission. While no fatalities have been reported, the situation remains critical due to the virus's ability to spread easily via coughs or sneezes within a 2-meter range. Dr. Suppapong urged residents to wear masks, wash their hands frequently, and avoid crowded areas. He emphasized the importance of annual flu vaccinations, especially for vulnerable groups like young children, pregnant women, seniors over 65, obese people, and those with chronic conditions. Symptoms of influenza A include fever, chills, body aches, coughing, sore throat, and extreme fatigue. Infected individuals are advised to stay home for three to seven days and seek medical help if symptoms worsen, such as having trouble breathing or losing appetite. The broader picture across Thailand is concerning, with nearly 100,000 infections and three deaths reported in just 15 days. The Ministry of Public Health is rolling out 4.5 million vaccine doses to manage the outbreak, which is notably affecting schools. Since the start of the year, there's been a rapid increase from 7,819 to 99,057 confirmed cases, with nine deaths in total. Chaiyaphum, along with Health Zone 9 regions like Nakhon Ratchasima, Surin, and Buriram, are among the hardest-hit areas. Notably, children aged five to nine are experiencing the highest infection rates. Authorities continue to stress vaccinations and preventive actions to control the spread, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-18

Grandmother and Grandchildren Barely Escape Collapsing House in Ayutthaya Photo courtesy of The Nation A grandmother and her three grandchildren narrowly avoided disaster when their two-story wooden house in Ayutthaya collapsed amid heavy rain on February 18. Miraculously, all of them, along with their pet dog, managed to escape unharmed. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352185-grandmother-and-grandchildren-barely-escape-collapsing-house-in-ayutthaya/

Photo courtesy of The Nation A grandmother and her three grandchildren narrowly avoided disaster when their two-story wooden house in Ayutthaya collapsed amid heavy rain on February 18. Miraculously, all of them, along with their pet dog, managed to escape unharmed. The collapse occurred at 9:30 a.m. near Talad Plu Market in Ayutthaya's Mueang district. The local Ruamkatanyu Foundation, responding quickly to the emergency call, found the house completely destroyed but thankfully, no one was trapped under the debris. The grandmother, 62-year-old Samruay Meesomphol, and her young grandchildren suffered only minor bruises. Her husband, 75-year-old La-iad Wongsanit, who owns the house, was away working at a nearby restaurant when the tragedy struck. First aid was provided to the family as their injuries were not serious. Samruay recounted the terrifying moments just before the house collapsed. After hearing ominous creaking noises following heavy downpours, she acted swiftly. Hearing the structure crack, she rushed to her grandchildren and ushered them to safety. Meanwhile, La-iad, alarmed by the sound of the collapse, rushed from his workplace to find his home reduced to rubble. "I couldn’t believe my eyes. The house was built just 12 years ago," he said. Authorities are now investigating the structural integrity of other homes in the area to prevent similar incidents, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-18

30,000-Baht Reward: Lost Toy Monkey Reunites with Owner Photo via Facebook/ Nice's Wichai In Chiang Rai, northern Thailand, a heartfelt story unfolded when a man offered a 30,000 baht reward for the return of a beloved monkey doll, missing from the parking lot of Yang Sod bar. This sentimental toy, a cherished gift from his mother since he was four, held great emotional value to him. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352183-30000-baht-reward-lost-toy-monkey-reunites-with-owner/

Photo via Facebook/ Nice's Wichai In Chiang Rai, northern Thailand, a heartfelt story unfolded when a man offered a 30,000 baht reward for the return of a beloved monkey doll, missing from the parking lot of Yang Sod bar. This sentimental toy, a cherished gift from his mother since he was four, held great emotional value to him. Taking to social media, the man shared a photo of the missing brown monkey doll, urging netizens to help locate it. Posting at 1 a.m. on February 16, he promised the generous reward with the hashtag #SentimentalValue. While some online critics questioned the authenticity of the story, suspecting a publicity stunt due to the ordinary appearance of the doll, the man clarified its personal significance linked to his childhood. In a joyful turn, a Thai woman, wishing to remain unnamed, discovered the doll at a local condominium and reached out after seeing the viral post. On February 17, she reunited the man with his cherished toy, receiving the promised 30,000 baht reward as a token of gratitude. Grateful, the man thanked netizens and media outlets for their role in sharing his story, leading to the heartfelt reunion with the treasured doll, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-18

Heavy Rains Cause Flood Chaos in Banglamung District Photo: The Pattaya News Heavy rains lashed the Eastern Banglamung District on February 18th, 2025, flooding several areas and blocking roads for over an hour. Water levels soared up to 50 cm, making routes impassable for small vehicles. The deluge, which struck at around 3:30 PM, severely affected the Sukhumvit-Pattaya 15 Road, Soi Nong Ket Yai Road, and the railway road. However, central Pattaya and Jomtien were spared from the storms. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352182-heavy-rains-cause-flood-chaos-in-banglamung-district/

Photo: The Pattaya News Heavy rains lashed the Eastern Banglamung District on February 18th, 2025, flooding several areas and blocking roads for over an hour. Water levels soared up to 50 cm, making routes impassable for small vehicles. The deluge, which struck at around 3:30 PM, severely affected the Sukhumvit-Pattaya 15 Road, Soi Nong Ket Yai Road, and the railway road. However, central Pattaya and Jomtien were spared from the storms. Officials from the Pattaya Special Affairs Office swiftly responded, directing residents to avoid flooded zones and barring small cars and motorcycles from the treacherous routes. Despite warnings, some vehicles braved the floods, resulting in stalled engines and vehicle damage. Following the end of the heavy rainfall, dedicated teams efficiently drained the water, allowing traffic to resume smoothly, reported The Pattaya News. -- 2025-02-18