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Photo via ThaiRath In a shocking development, Thai police have arrested an 18-year-old modeling agency operator named In, tied to the death of a 22-year-old party entertainer, Irada. She died after an alleged drug encounter with a Chinese client in Bangkok. Irada was found dead on February 10 in a Bang Kapi hotel room, reportedly after being forced to take a drug known as "happy water" by the client, 37-year-old Duoying Wu. This drug combination tragically led to her demise. Authorities discovered Wu, who goes by the Thai name Jadesada, had fled the scene, prompting an arrest warrant. Recent reports suggest he might have left Thailand. In was brought in for questioning by Chokchai Police on February 17. She claimed it was Irada’s first time working as a party entertainer and denied knowledge of her drug use. In reportedly organized entertainers for clients, taking commissions and sharing fees with the entertainers. Irada's case raised eyebrows as she was hired to meet Wu alone in a hotel, casting shadows of possible prostitution, prompting police to charge In under the Human Trafficking Act for potentially enticing Irada into prostitution. This offense carries a penalty of one to ten years in prison and fines between 10,000 and 200,000 baht. Police are still investigating, but haven't found evidence directly linking In to forcing Irada to take drugs, keeping focus on uncovering the tragic sequence of events, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-18

Bangkok Police Nab Theft Suspects Linked to Multiple Motorbike Crimes Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a decisive move, police in Bangkok’s Thakham district have successfully apprehended two suspects linked to a spree of motorcycle thefts across the city. The suspects, Khemchat, 26, and Anuchit, 20, were arrested at a rental property in Rat Burana district following a carefully coordinated investigation prompted by a report on February 15. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352171-bangkok-police-nab-theft-suspects-linked-to-multiple-motorbike-crimes/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a decisive move, police in Bangkok’s Thakham district have successfully apprehended two suspects linked to a spree of motorcycle thefts across the city. The suspects, Khemchat, 26, and Anuchit, 20, were arrested at a rental property in Rat Burana district following a carefully coordinated investigation prompted by a report on February 15. Kanokwan, 35, had reported her blue Honda Wave motorcycle stolen from in front of Ratchapoom Clinic. Swift police action ensued, examining CCTV footage and tracing the suspects to their hideout. The police seized the red Honda PCX motorcycle used in the theft, alongside another stolen motorbike, and clothing from the incident. The suspects confessed during interrogation, revealing they had stolen Kanokwan’s motorcycle and abandoned it in Thonburi. They also admitted to another theft on February 13, selling that motorbike for 6,500 baht (£150) to fund personal expenses and alleged drug habits. Khemchat and Anuchit, both with criminal histories, now face serious charges, including nighttime theft and handling stolen goods. With police planning further investigations, authorities have encouraged the public to come forward if they recognise the suspects. This arrest marks a significant breakthrough in curbing vehicle thefts and enhancing urban safety in Bangkok, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-18

Optimus Prime Statue in Bangkok Gains "Sacred" Status for Bar - video Photo via TiKTok/ @hypnotized.bar In Bangkok's bustling Chinatown, an unlikely transformation has occurred. An Optimus Prime statue, more often associated with childhood escapades than profound spirituality, has become a symbol of blessing for a newly inaugurated cocktail and wine bar known as Hypnotized. It all started when the bar's creative marketing involved a tongue-in-cheek homage to the Transformers icon with a touch of traditional Thai flavour. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352170-optimus-prime-statue-in-bangkok-gains-sacred-status-for-bar-video/

Photo via TiKTok/ @hypnotized.bar In Bangkok's bustling Chinatown, an unlikely transformation has occurred. An Optimus Prime statue, more often associated with childhood escapades than profound spirituality, has become a symbol of blessing for a newly inaugurated cocktail and wine bar known as Hypnotized. It all started when the bar's creative marketing involved a tongue-in-cheek homage to the Transformers icon with a touch of traditional Thai flavour. The bar catapulted into social media fame when it shared a video of a bartender petitioning the robot overlord for prosperity, marking the peculiar ritual as both homage and jest. The initial offering, a cocktail, was a humorous nod to Optimus' mechanised persona, swiftly followed by more fitting offerings of engine oil, complete with straws, adding to the ritual's illustrious mockery. Interestingly, the playful campaign has brought tangible results. Visitors flocked to Hypnotized, curious to see the fusion of pop culture idol worship and sophisticated hospitality unfold. The surge in business led the owners to celebrate their newfound success with an even grander spectacle—a traditional Thai dance performance, ironically masked with Optimus Prime and Bumblebee visages. The appealing antics have certainly drawn both cheer and scepticism, blurring the lines between genuine belief and clever marketing. Yet, the union of tradition, pop culture and shrewd promotion showcases an inventive method of attracting patrons—proof that sometimes, mixing unlikely elements can drive surprising success, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-18

Thonburi Drug Bust: 48kg of Meth and Ketamine Seized, Suspects Flee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a major drug bust in the Thonburi district of Bangkok, police confiscated 25 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine and 23 kilogrammes of ketamine after suspects abandoned their vehicles. The incident took place yesterday morning, February 17, near Phetkasem Road, Bang Khae district when police were monitoring a suspected drug gang. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352169-thonburi-drug-bust-48kg-of-meth-and-ketamine-seized-suspects-flee/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a major drug bust in the Thonburi district of Bangkok, police confiscated 25 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine and 23 kilogrammes of ketamine after suspects abandoned their vehicles. The incident took place yesterday morning, February 17, near Phetkasem Road, Bang Khae district when police were monitoring a suspected drug gang. The operation, led by Police Colonel Thirachai Dedkad and a team from the Metropolitan Police Bureau Division 9, was the result of intelligence received about a planned drug exchange. The suspects intended to transfer the drugs between a black Honda HR-V and a white Honda Jazz, both registered in Bangkok, when the radiator of the HR-V malfunctioned, forcing them to stop. Police quickly moved in, but the suspects managed to escape on foot, leaving behind the cars packed with black bags containing drugs. A thorough search revealed three bags in the HR-V and four in the Jazz, both found in close proximity to Phetkasem Road. Collaborating with Lak Song Police Station, the investigators and forensic teams are diligently working to identify fingerprints and other evidence left by the suspects. The seized drugs have been handed over to the Lak Song police detectives, who will collaborate with the Office of the Narcotics Control Board to trace responsible gang members and vehicle owners. The suspects are believed to be involved with a significant drug trafficking network operating in the Thonburi area, and authorities are intensifying efforts to capture them and dismantle the gang, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-18

New Bus Routes Link Bangkok Airports to Pattaya and Hua Hin Photo courtesy of Airport Huahin Bus Travellers can now take advantage of a new first-class bus service connecting Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports to the popular destinations of Pattaya and Hua Hin. This service, operational from March 8, is provided by State-run Transport Co. and promises both comfort and convenience for tourists and locals alike. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352167-new-bus-routes-link-bangkok-airports-to-pattaya-and-hua-hin/

Photo courtesy of Airport Huahin Bus Travellers can now take advantage of a new first-class bus service connecting Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports to the popular destinations of Pattaya and Hua Hin. This service, operational from March 8, is provided by State-run Transport Co. and promises both comfort and convenience for tourists and locals alike. The service offers four daily round trips from Don Mueang to Pattaya, covering 162 kilometres in approximately two-and-a-half hours, with each trip costing 155 baht. For those heading to Hua Hin from Don Mueang, the service provides two daily round trips, covering 216 kilometres in about three-and-a-half hours, with a ticket price of 200 baht. Additionally, passengers arriving at Suvarnabhumi can access four daily round trips to Pattaya, spanning 127 kilometres in two hours at a fare of 122 baht. Tickets will be available for purchase within both airport terminals, ensuring straightforward access for all travellers. This seamless and cost-effective service is poised to enhance the ease of reaching Pattaya and Hua Hin from Bangkok's major airports, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-18

Illegal Buildings in Pattaya Demolished Amid Drug Fight Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News In a bold move to curb illegal activity, Pattaya officials have started demolishing unauthorized structures on Soi Jomtien 3, previously known for drug gatherings. Yesterday, February 17, Mayor Poramet Ngampichet, alongside Police Chief Colonel Navin Teerawit, oversaw the demolition operations aimed at restoring safety to the area. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352166-illegal-buildings-in-pattaya-demolished-amid-drug-fight/

Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News In a bold move to curb illegal activity, Pattaya officials have started demolishing unauthorized structures on Soi Jomtien 3, previously known for drug gatherings. Yesterday, February 17, Mayor Poramet Ngampichet, alongside Police Chief Colonel Navin Teerawit, oversaw the demolition operations aimed at restoring safety to the area. The area had fallen into disrepute, with about 30 makeshift shelters unlawfully established and reputed as a hive for drug-related activities. Officials swiftly mobilized multiple agencies to clear these structures, rejuvenating the location previously overshadowed by crime. The demolition is part of Pattaya's ongoing efforts to clamp down on drug activity in the Jomtien tourist hotspot. Mayor Ngampichet has ordered continuous inspections of the area between Soi 2 and Soi 3 to prevent further illicit activities from taking root. In a broader initiative to safeguard the city’s family-friendly image, the mayor has directed city officials to enhance patrol frequency and work closely with community leaders to deter illegal activities. The bustling strip of Jomtien Soi 2 to 3 is integral to Pattaya’s economy, drawing in both tourists and locals alike. By intensifying these measures, Pattaya aims to reassure visitors of their safety and reinforce the city’s standing as a vibrant yet secure destination. This crackdown not only underscores the importance of maintaining a crime-free environment but also reinforces Pattaya’s dedication to lawful governance, ensuring both residents and visitors can enjoy the city with peace of mind, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-18

Patong Police Crack Down on Reckless Foreign Tourist Riders Picture of police stopping a Thai man in Phuket courtesy of Phuket News In an effort to address the rampant chaos on Phuket's roads, Patong police initiated a significant crackdown on reckless driving among foreign tourists over the weekend. On Saturday, February 15, authorities targeted local motorbike rental operators, penalising over ten businesses for failing to verify tourists' driving licences before renting out vehicles. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352161-patong-police-crack-down-on-reckless-foreign-tourist-riders/

Picture of police stopping a Thai man in Phuket courtesy of Phuket News In an effort to address the rampant chaos on Phuket's roads, Patong police initiated a significant crackdown on reckless driving among foreign tourists over the weekend. On Saturday, February 15, authorities targeted local motorbike rental operators, penalising over ten businesses for failing to verify tourists' driving licences before renting out vehicles. Lieutenant Colonel Chamnan Sapsin of the Patong Traffic Police disclosed that tourists caught riding without licences were fined 1,000 baht each, while rental shops were hit with a 2,000-baht penalty per violation for their negligence in ensuring proper documentation. This operation led to the seizure of several motorbikes, creating a temporary halt for those affected. The current strategy focuses on enforcing fines rather than closing down rental operations. Despite the intensity of the crackdown, police have so far been issuing financial penalties only, refraining from pursuing further legal actions or business closures. This steady approach is part of an ongoing effort to instil road discipline as Patong police continue to apprehend about twenty unlicensed foreign riders daily. As authorities summon bike owners to settle fines and reclaim their vehicles, the Patong police remains resolute in their mission to maintain safer streets and restore order on the island, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-18

Phuket Puts Plans in Place to Secure Water Amid Dry Season Photo courtesy of The Phuket News As Phuket welcomes the dry season, local officials are diligently working to prevent any potential drought issues. The Phuket Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office (DDPM Phuket) recently held an emergency meeting on February 17, headed by Chief Sopon Thongsai, to devise strategies for effective water management. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352159-phuket-puts-plans-in-place-to-secure-water-amid-dry-season/

Photo courtesy of The Phuket News As Phuket welcomes the dry season, local officials are diligently working to prevent any potential drought issues. The Phuket Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office (DDPM Phuket) recently held an emergency meeting on February 17, headed by Chief Sopon Thongsai, to devise strategies for effective water management. The meeting, the first of the year, united various agencies to evaluate the island's water status and to draft response plans. While February usually experiences low rainfall, officials noted a higher-than-average precipitation this year, which has aided in maintaining healthy water reserves. Chief Sopon emphasized the importance of continuous monitoring and collaboration among all agencies to ensure prompt action should conditions worsen. Krirksak Leenanon, from the Royal Irrigation Department (RID), assured that Phuket's three main reservoirs have ample water to last through the dry season. Reservoir levels currently stand at 63% for Bang Neow Dum, 51% for Bang Wad, and 66% for Klong Kata, according to the Office of National Water Resources. Despite these solid reserves, officials are erring on the side of caution and are coordinating efforts to protect Phuket's water supply for residents, businesses, and tourists alike, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-18

Fuel Dodge Goes Awry: Meth-Driven Trucker Slams Into Trouble Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 27-year-old truck driver, Wiriya, spiraled into chaos in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand, after failing to pay for fuel and causing a traffic accident while under the influence of methamphetamine. The chaotic series of events unfolded on February 17. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352157-fuel-dodge-goes-awry-meth-driven-trucker-slams-into-trouble/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 27-year-old truck driver, Wiriya, spiraled into chaos in Nakhon Pathom, Thailand, after failing to pay for fuel and causing a traffic accident while under the influence of methamphetamine. The chaotic series of events unfolded on February 17. Police Colonel Phakphon Suchon and Deputy Superintendent Kla Sombatpiboon tracked Wiriya down at a Phetkasem Road intersection, en route to Bangkok. Prior to his arrest, Wiriya skipped out on a 2,920 baht (US$86) fuel bill at a nearby station. A petrol station employee chased Wiriya on a motorcycle, alerting Highway Police along the way. Law enforcement finally caught up with Wiriya's six-wheeler on Borommaratchachonnani Road. Though he initially denied any wrongdoing, Wiriya was taken to the local police station. In a bold move, he fled during a restroom break, seizing another vehicle for a desperate getaway. During his flight, Wiriya ran a red light, crashing into another car and injuring its occupant. The collision immobilized his truck, leading to his capture and hospitalization for treatment. Wiriya admitted to purchasing and using methamphetamine worth 100 baht (US$3) from a friend. Drug tests confirmed his story. Authorities have charged Wiriya with vehicle theft, driving under the influence of drugs, narcotic consumption, and escaping custody. He remains in police custody for further proceedings, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-18

Students Return 32,000 Baht Mistakenly Given at a Thai Gold Shop Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Recently, two high school students in Saraburi, Thailand, made headlines for their remarkable honesty. The teenagers, Thiraporn "Baifern" Laophusing and Phornchanok "Beam" Phimsen, were given nearly 32,000 baht (about $890) instead of 5,000 baht (about $150) at a local gold shop. Both 18-year-olds returned the excess money, receiving praise and a small reward for their integrity. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352155-students-return-32000-baht-mistakenly-given-at-a-thai-gold-shop/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Recently, two high school students in Saraburi, Thailand, made headlines for their remarkable honesty. The teenagers, Thiraporn "Baifern" Laophusing and Phornchanok "Beam" Phimsen, were given nearly 32,000 baht (about $890) instead of 5,000 baht (about $150) at a local gold shop. Both 18-year-olds returned the excess money, receiving praise and a small reward for their integrity. The mix-up happened at Phetchthong Yaowarat, a busy gold shop managed by Piraya Thanakitamporn. The shop mistakenly handed the students three bundles of 10,000 baht each and some 50 baht notes instead of the correct amount. The error occurred during a hectic part of the day. Upon realizing the mistake at home, the students promptly informed their teacher and Beam's mother took them to the shop to return the extra cash. The gesture was met with admiration from the shop owner, who rewarded the students with 1,000 baht as a thank-you for their honesty. Thiraporn explained they were exchanging money they’d collected for a class fund, intended for easy distribution to classmates before their graduation. Overwhelmed by the confusion, they immediately rectified the mistake upon noticing it. Their commendable actions have inspired many, emphasizing the importance of integrity and honesty in everyday life, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-18

Thai PM Assures Locals: No Israeli Takeover in Pai District - video Picture of Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra courtesy of Amarin TV Thailand's Prime Minister, Paethongtarn Shinawatra, has addressed and dismissed concerns over alleged Israeli control of the picturesque Pai district in Mae Hong Son. Responding to circulating rumours, Shinawatra, 38, stressed that the notion of an Israeli influx overtaking the area and restricting Thai access is unfounded. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352154-thai-pm-assures-locals-no-israeli-takeover-in-pai-district-video/

Picture of Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra courtesy of Amarin TV Thailand's Prime Minister, Paethongtarn Shinawatra, has addressed and dismissed concerns over alleged Israeli control of the picturesque Pai district in Mae Hong Son. Responding to circulating rumours, Shinawatra, 38, stressed that the notion of an Israeli influx overtaking the area and restricting Thai access is unfounded. In a bid to pacify growing anxiety and misinformation among Thai citizens, Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will soon visit Pai to clarify the situation and address the rising numbers of Israeli nationals reportedly disturbing local peace. Reports have recently emerged on social media detailing instances of disruptive behaviours by some Israeli visitors, resulting in the deportation of four individuals who caused a commotion at Pai Hospital. The hospital staff recounted incidents where the foreigners displayed obscene gestures, flouted hospital rules, and even attempted theft, leaving medical teams feeling unsafe. In further actions, immigration officials deported another group for unlicensed work and bar operations in the area. Some local businesses reacted by restricting Israeli tourists, and concerns have been raised regarding the Chabad of Pai synagogue, a popular gathering place for Israelis, allegedly hosting loud, daily parties. Now, all eyes are on Anutin’s upcoming assessment to bring closure and clarity to the Pai community, eagerly awaiting an official statement, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-18

Thai PM Visits Phatthalung, Promises Growth before Cabinet Meeting Photo courtesy of The Nation Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra embarked on a significant visit to Phatthalung, engaging with locals and pledging economic development. This two-day tour leads into the inaugural mobile Cabinet meeting in Songkhla, showcasing her administration's dedication to regional growth. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352153-thai-pm-visits-phatthalung-promises-growth-before-cabinet-meeting/

Photo courtesy of The Nation Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra embarked on a significant visit to Phatthalung, engaging with locals and pledging economic development. This two-day tour leads into the inaugural mobile Cabinet meeting in Songkhla, showcasing her administration's dedication to regional growth. In her initial stop at Thale Noi, a prominent wetland, PM Paetongtarn met with key ministers: Energy's Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, Digital Economy's Prasert Chantararuangthong, and Labour's Pipat Ratchakitprakarn. Amidst the natural backdrop, she partook in feeding water buffaloes and encouraged officials to transform wetland weeds into compost, alongside efforts to expand markets for buffalo milk, bolstering village incomes. Drawing a nostalgic parallel to her father, former PM Thaksin Shinawatra's 2004 initiatives, locals anticipate continued developmental strides. A display banner aptly stated: "Thaksin thought in 2005, Paetongtarn continues the policies in 2025." Despite language barriers, the Prime Minister conveyed her commitment to earning the region's trust and assured furtherance of Songkhla Lake's development. She also reviewed the Chalerm Phrakiart’s 80th Birthday Bridge, a testament to her predecessor's infrastructural legacy. Wrapping up her Phatthalung visit, PM Paetongtarn headed to Thai Union Seafood Co Ltd in Singha Nakhon district, setting the stage for the forthcoming Cabinet meeting. Echoing regional ambitions, she emphasized strengthening ASEAN's economic ties and advancing the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) under Malaysia’s chairmanship. Her vision extends towards modernising trade agreements and fostering digital economic frameworks, propelling both local and regional growth, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-18

Thailand Cracks Down: Police to Monitor Foreign Nationals Closely Photo courtesy of The Nation Thailand’s national police chief, Police General Kitrat Panphet, has directed police forces across the nation to heighten surveillance of foreign nationals amid escalating concerns over public order and safety. This new measure, announced on 17 February, stems from reports of foreign visitors’ conduct that disrupts social harmony, violates public morals, and potentially damages Thailand's reputation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352152-thailand-cracks-down-police-to-monitor-foreign-nationals-closely/

Photo courtesy of The Nation Thailand’s national police chief, Police General Kitrat Panphet, has directed police forces across the nation to heighten surveillance of foreign nationals amid escalating concerns over public order and safety. This new measure, announced on 17 February, stems from reports of foreign visitors’ conduct that disrupts social harmony, violates public morals, and potentially damages Thailand's reputation. The directive requires all policing units, including the Metropolitan Police, Provincial Police, Immigration, Tourist Police, and Border Patrol, to prioritise the matter. The move follows troubling incidents, notably in Pai, Mae Hong Son, where local businesses recently refused service to Israeli nationals. This decision arose after reports of inappropriate behaviour by some Israeli tourists, who allegedly verbally abused medical staff and threatened property damage at a local hospital. Adding to the concern, a Facebook video depicting intoxicated foreigners harassing female restaurant owners went viral, fanning online safety fears. General Kitrat has instructed law enforcement in Mae Hong Son to investigate these incidents thoroughly and report back within a week. The police are earnest in ensuring Thailand remains safe and hospitable for all its visitors, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-18