snoop1130

Illegal Chinese Goods Seized in Kalasin Convoy File photo for reference only Three trucks carrying illegal imports from China worth 20 million baht were intercepted by the police. More than 800 uncertified items were seized. The drivers, who said they were just hired to deliver the goods, were questioned. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335715-illegal-chinese-goods-seized-in-kalasin-convoy/

Three trucks carrying illegal imports from China worth 20 million baht were intercepted by the police. More than 800 uncertified items were seized. The drivers, who said they were just hired to deliver the goods, were questioned. On August 15, highway police halted three ten-wheel trucks filled with illegal goods from China. The intervention happened on Highway 299, between the 19th and 20th kilometers, in the Phai subdistrict of Mueang district, Kalasin province. The convoy, composed of Hino trucks, was moving from Somdet district to Kalasin province, when the officers stopped them due to the suspicions about their cargo. During the inspection, the police found that the trucks were loaded with various items imported from China, which led them to call customs officials for further examination. The initial probe revealed that the cargo contained uncertified electrical appliances, counterfeit goods, hazardous materials, foreign alcohol and cigarettes, and car parts and electronics. In total, 846 items worth 20 million baht were impounded. The drivers, referred to as Montree, Pongsakorn, and Chanapol (surnames not disclosed), were questioned after the discovery. They said that they had transported the goods from the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge to a warehouse in the central province. The drivers confirmed they were compensated per trip and didn't have any proper papers or knowledge about the cargo from the person who hired them. In response, they said, "We were hired to transport these goods and had no idea they were illegal." Further probes are being conducted to comprehend the scope of the smuggling operation and identify the culprits involved. The arrested drivers and the seized goods have been turned over to the Kalasin Police Station and customs officials for legal action. The operation emphasizes the persistent problem of illegal imports penetrating Thailand, especially from neighboring nations. According to a spokesperson, the police are committed to containing such activities by focusing on thorough examinations and by cooperating with various law enforcement agencies. He warned, "These illegal imports not only breach the law but also pose significant hazards to consumers due to insufficient safety standards." File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Delays loom for Thai-Chinese high-speed railway project Photo courtesy of The Nation In a major transport initiative between Thailand and China, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) reported that the first phase of the high-speed railway linking Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima is around 71% complete. However, it’s trailing behind its scheduled opening in 2028 by around 36%. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335714-delays-loom-for-thai-chinese-high-speed-railway-project/

In a major transport initiative between Thailand and China, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) reported that the first phase of the high-speed railway linking Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima is around 71% complete. However, it’s trailing behind its scheduled opening in 2028 by around 36%. This ambitious 873-kilometre rail project, pegged at a whopping 341 billion baht, has faced significant delays, primarily due to financial disagreements between Thailand and China. The Thai section of the railway kicked off in 2017 but has since been plagued by years of setbacks. Anan Nimphodaeng, SRT Deputy Governor, stated that the first phase, spanning 253 kilometres from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima, consists of 14 work contracts with an estimated budget of 179.41 billion baht. Adjustments have been necessary for the draft plan of contract no. 3 to 5, which runs from Khok Kruat to Nakhon Ratchasima stations. To minimise the impact on local communities and aid future land development, the SRT has shifted from a ground-level track to an elevated one, spanning 7.85 kilometres. This alteration will add approximately 2 billion baht to the budget but remains within the overall limit, leaving about 11 billion baht in surplus. SRT is hopeful of securing approval for these changes from its board and the Transport Ministry by September. Meanwhile, contract no. 4 to 5, from Ban Pho to Phra Kaew station in Ayutthaya, covering 13.3 kilometres and costing nearly 10 billion baht, awaits further development. “The Office of Natural Resources and Environment Policy and Planning has mandated the SRT to conduct a Heritage Impact Assessment (HIA) on the Ayutthaya Historical Park, a proposed site for a new station.” The authority has submitted the HIA and awaits feedback. Another obstacle concerns contract no. 4 to 1, the Bang Sue-Don Muang section, with a budget of around 9 billion baht. The SRT is negotiating with the contractor for the high-speed rail connecting three airports due to overlapping project areas. A deal is expected soon, following approval from the Eastern Economic Corridor Office. Summarising the progress, Anan revealed that out of 14 contracts, two are complete, nine are under construction, and three are on hold. Once finished, the high-speed rail will connect China and Thailand via Laos as part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, with Phase 2 linking Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai by 2030, reported The Nation. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Future of 10,000-baht digital wallet in doubt after PM dismissal Picture courtesy of aljazeera.com official website Srettha Thavisin’s dismissal as prime minister cast significant doubt over the future of the much-publicised digital wallet scheme, with the ruling Pheu Thai Party and the Cabinet providing conflicting messages about the flagship policy’s direction. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335713-future-of-10000-baht-digital-wallet-in-doubt-after-pm-dismissal/

Srettha Thavisin’s dismissal as prime minister cast significant doubt over the future of the much-publicised digital wallet scheme, with the ruling Pheu Thai Party and the Cabinet providing conflicting messages about the flagship policy’s direction. Concerns are also mounting among the public regarding the potential misuse of personal information collected for the 10,000-baht handout. A constitutional court order on Wednesday led to Srettha’s dismissal, which in turn resulted in the entire Cabinet being relegated to caretaker status. Now, the fate of the digital wallet policy lies in the hands of the new government under Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat indicated yesterday, August 15, that any adjustments to the digital handout scheme would require the new Cabinet’s approval. This statement came in response to reports that former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, who is widely seen as the de facto leader of Pheu Thai, had told coalition party leaders that the digital handout scheme might be scrapped. An urgent meeting at Thaksin’s Bangkok residence was reportedly held shortly after the constitutional court decided to dismiss Srettha, who had appointed ex-convict Pichit Chuenban to the Cabinet. This meeting was allegedly convened to discuss the nomination of Chaikasem as the new prime minister. In parliament, Democrat Party MP Romtham Kham-urak expressed concerns for the public who had registered for the handout, particularly about the safety of their personal information if the scheme is discontinued. He called on acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai to ensure that the data remains secure. Scheme’s future Caretaker Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, when questioned about the scheme’s future, deferred the decision to the incoming government. Pakorn Nilprapan, Secretary-General of the Council of State, stated that the scheme should be paused following Srettha’s dismissal. Despite these uncertainties, Pheu Thai Secretary-General Sorawong Thienthong insisted that the digital money handout would continue, emphasising the party’s steadfast commitment to its flagship policy. He noted that none of Pheu Thai’s coalition partners opposed the policy. Public sentiment, however, appears to be waning. Many individuals interviewed expressed scepticism about the scheme’s continuation under a new prime minister. Nakhon Ratchasima resident Lert Abphakwan doubted the scheme would ever materialise, while motorcycle taxi driver Arnon Inpanpanao in Korat felt the handout should proceed but believed that most people would prefer cash over digital money. “I feel bad for those who bought new smartphones just to register for the digital wallet scheme.” In Buriram, residents like 59 year old, Ben and 61 year old, Ya voiced concerns about the scheme’s future and the security of their data. They had hoped the scheme would alleviate their household debt. The 46 year old, Samrerng Rodthong, from Khon Kaen’s Mueang district, believed that the scheme would vanish along with the former Thai premier. In Sisaket, 52 year old, Thatchanok Pimthong, from Wang Hin district, criticised the scheme as being more beneficial to large businesses than small vendors like herself. She commented policies may come across as attractive, but they are useless if they are not practical. As the political landscape shifts, the uncertainty surrounding the digital wallet scheme leaves many questioning its future and the potential impact on their personal data and financial relief, reported Bangkok Post. By Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of aljazeera.com official website Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Dead body of a missing father discovered in a water container in Nakhon Ratchasima File photo for reference only The body of a missing father has been discovered in a water tank at his home in Nakhon Ratchasima, causing shock and sadness among his family and the local community. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335708-dead-body-of-a-missing-father-discovered-in-a-water-container-in-nakhon-ratchasima/

The body of a missing father has been discovered in a water tank at his home in Nakhon Ratchasima, causing shock and sadness among his family and the local community. Police at Huai Thalaeng Police Station, led by Colonel Lieutenant Boonyarith, were informed about the death yesterday, necessitating immediate response from authorities and local rescue teams, including Lieutenant Anon Luangchat and Hook 31 Hin Dat. On arrival, officers found local residents gathered around the water container where the deceased, 57-year-old Prasit, was found. His body was retrieved and checked, and no signs of foul play were detected by the rescuers. The discovery has caused deep grief for his family, particularly his son, Chanarong, aged 38, who had been desperately looking for his missing father. Chanarong shared that his father, previously a deputy chairman of the Hin Dat Subdistrict Municipality Council, disappeared from their home early in the morning when he was not around. Chanarong later found his father's shoes next to the water tank, and looking inside, he discovered his father's lifeless body. Distraught, Chanarong alerted the neighbours and contacted the police and rescue services. The family home, located in the Non Sanga community, was filled with mourning relatives awaiting the commencement of funeral rites. The deceased's wife, 55-year-old Rabiab, was too devastated to give detailed comments, but noted she did not suspect foul play in her husband's death. The cremation ceremony for the deceased is planned for August 19 at the Wat Hin Dat crematorium in the Hin Dat subdistrict. Photo: The Thaiger -- 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Confusion over delayed billion-baht terminal project at Trang Airport File photo for reference only Residents are demanding answers about the postponed opening of the new 1.2 billion baht passenger terminal at Trang International Airport in southern Thailand. The terminal, which was due to be completed and open by April 22, is still unfinished and in a state of disrepair. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335707-confusion-over-delayed-billion-baht-terminal-project-at-trang-airport/

Residents are demanding answers about the postponed opening of the new 1.2 billion baht passenger terminal at Trang International Airport in southern Thailand. The terminal, which was due to be completed and open by April 22, is still unfinished and in a state of disrepair. Locals from Trang have made complaints to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), claiming that the incomplete airport project has cost them potential benefits from the tourism industry. Many are worried the project could be dropped completely, resulting in wasted funds as they've seen happen with other local projects. In response, the NACC has called on the Department of Airports to explain the construction issues. On August 14, Yuttana Wimonmueang, an official from the Trang Provincial NACC Office, visited the airport alongside officials from the Department of Airports. Yuttana reported the total construction budget for Trang Airport at 4.66 billion baht, with 1.2 billion dedicated to the terminal now overdue and neglected for over four months. Damages including water leaks, ceiling collapses, dead vegetation, broken water pipes and faulty electronic devices were noted during the site visit. Kornchakot Prasawang, an architect from the Department of Airports, has claimed that the terminal is 98.3% complete. He suggested that the construction firm's financial issues have hindered the project's completion. Following project delays, the contractor has been hit with considerable fines, amounting to over 100 million baht. A solution will be sought at a meeting with the contractor on April 19. Until then, Jirapha Hinmala, Director of Trang Airport, has said it is currently impossible to provide a completion or opening date for the terminal. However, she promised it would open as soon as possible, with more updates following the meeting. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Van Caught Smuggling Cambodians Across Border in Chanthaburi File photo for reference only On Wednesday, August 14, a van carrying illegal immigrants was stopped by immigration officers in Chanthaburi. These officers, led by Veerayos Karunyathorn, the Deputy Commander of Immigration Division 2, and Sawat Chotiranaphas, the Deputy Commander of Chanthaburi Immigration, were carrying out regular checks on highways and roads to limit illegal immigration activities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335706-van-caught-smuggling-cambodians-across-border-in-chanthaburi/

On Wednesday, August 14, a van carrying illegal immigrants was stopped by immigration officers in Chanthaburi. These officers, led by Veerayos Karunyathorn, the Deputy Commander of Immigration Division 2, and Sawat Chotiranaphas, the Deputy Commander of Chanthaburi Immigration, were carrying out regular checks on highways and roads to limit illegal immigration activities. While they were surveying Sukhumvit Road in Saenlung, Chanthaburi, they noticed a suspicious-looking van. They tried to stop it, but the driver tried to escape, leading them on a chase. Finally, they managed to stop the van and searched it. The driver, 43-year-old Chatichai, was transporting 12 Cambodians, four of whom didn’t have passports or any legal travel papers. He was charged with helping illegal immigrants avoid arrest, and his van was seized. The four Cambodians without documents were charged with entering and living in the country without legal permission. They admitted that they came to Thailand over natural border crossings looking for work in central areas. But later, they decided to go back to Cambodia and employed Chatichai for 1,100 baht to take them from Chon Buri to Pong Nam Ron, Chanthaburi. The arrested individuals were taken, along with the van, to the Chanthaburi Police Station for legal actions. Police Lieutenant General Itthipol Ittisarnranchai, Commissioner of Immigration Bureau, and Police Major General Natthakorn Praphaynont, Commander of Immigration Division 3, told Chanthaburi Immigration officials to enhance their surveillance and examination of foreigners in the province and near the borders. The goal of these efforts is to keep on fighting against illegal activities. Chanthaburi Immigration said it is dedicated to fighting crime and ridding the area of illegal immigrants, while also supporting and growing the local economy. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Taxi Driver Hits Security Guard Over Illegal U-turn in Nonthaburi File photo for reference only A situation in a Nonthaburi shopping mall developed when a taxi driver performed an illegal U-turn and struck a security guard who warned him against it. The event, which unfolded in Bang Yai, was caught on a dashcam, and the 42-second video was shared on a popular Facebook page. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335705-taxi-driver-hits-security-guard-over-illegal-u-turn-in-nonthaburi/

A situation in a Nonthaburi shopping mall developed when a taxi driver performed an illegal U-turn and struck a security guard who warned him against it. The event, which unfolded in Bang Yai, was caught on a dashcam, and the 42-second video was shared on a popular Facebook page. In the video, the driver can be seen exiting a green and yellow taxi and seemingly hitting the security guard on the head after attempting the forbidden turn. After a short verbal exchange, the driver leaves the scene. The video was shared on the Facebook page "อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 7" along with a caption: "Daring taxi driver! He slapped the security guard who advised him against the U-turn at Westgate. When stopped, he got annoyed and smacked the guard." Suggestions flooded the comments section advocating for the guard to report the assault to the police and to seek financial compensation instead of accepting an apology gift. Many online users have expressed their dismay at the taxi driver's actions, acknowledging the security guard's right to justice. "The right thing to do is to report this to the police. This violent outburst over a simple direction is unacceptable.” "Request financial compensation. Do not accept any apologies or gifts. Such behavior should be punished." This event sheds light on the ongoing struggle with traffic rule adherence and road safety in Thailand. It provides a stark reminder of the potential fallouts of illegal U-turns, a prevalent problem. The police have yet to make a statement. However, the video underscores the need for a stronger implementation of traffic rules and improved protection for security personnel who often bear the brunt of driver's aggression. So far, the security guard at the receiving end of the assault has not publicly spoken about the incident. It's also yet to be known if a formal complaint has been lodged with the police. Furthermore, the taxi driver's identity remains undisclosed. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Unemployment Rate in Thailand Declines, But Unemployment in Bangkok Rises File photo for reference only Unemployment in Thailand has declined overall from May to June, but the unemployment rate in Bangkok has risen, according to a recent survey carried out by the National Statistical Office (NSO). Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335704-unemployment-rate-in-thailand-declines-but-unemployment-in-bangkok-rises/

Unemployment in Thailand has declined overall from May to June, but the unemployment rate in Bangkok has risen, according to a recent survey carried out by the National Statistical Office (NSO). The NSO stated that the number of people out of work fell to 379,000 in June, down from about 482,000 in May. The survey looked at the employment data of a potential workforce of 59.19 million people who are 15 and older. Out of these, 40 million worked in official jobs, with the rest, including people with disabilities, not working. The rate of jobless people from 15 to 24 years old decreased significantly from 7% in May to 5.1% in June. However, for people 25 and older, the decrease was slight, going from 0.6% to 0.5%, the NSO reported. Despite the decrease in jobless rates across Thailand, in Bangkok, the number of unemployed people slightly rose from 12% in May to 13% in June. University graduates had the highest number of unemployed at 139,000. This was followed by high school and vocational school graduates, who each had about 72,000 unemployed according to the NSO's data. An international online jobs platform, SEEK, carried out a separate survey of 150,000 people from 180 countries. It found that 76% of participants from Thailand were willing to work remotely for an international company without leaving their country. This figure increased from 50% in a 2020 survey. When surveyed about the willingness to work and live outside of Thailand, 66% of Thai participants expressed interest, naming better wages, job opportunities, and an international work environment as the main attractions. The top places of interest for those wanting to work abroad were Singapore, Australia, the US, and China, the survey reported. The SEEK survey also revealed Thailand's ranking in the list of preferred work destinations worldwide improved from 39th in 2018 to 31st. The reasons attracting foreign workers to Thailand include the high quality of life, friendliness of the locals, a culture of non-discrimination, and low cost of living. As of March, about 2.7 million overseas workers were working in Thailand, making up 7% of the country's entire workforce, SEEK added. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand aims to make its mark as a global finance hub File photo for reference only Thailand is aiming to position itself as an international finance hub, with plans to enhance five key sectors: banking, insurance, securities, digital assets, and derivatives. This development comes more than two decades after the 1997 Asian financial crisis, with Thailand looking to strengthen its financial infrastructure and elevate its global standing. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335703-thailand-aims-to-make-its-mark-as-a-global-finance-hub/

Thailand is aiming to position itself as an international finance hub, with plans to enhance five key sectors: banking, insurance, securities, digital assets, and derivatives. This development comes more than two decades after the 1997 Asian financial crisis, with Thailand looking to strengthen its financial infrastructure and elevate its global standing. Interim Finance Minister, Pichai Chunhavajira, stressed the importance of promoting Thailand as a finance hub, as the global financial scene continues to rapidly change. While traditional financial powerhouses like the US, UK, and Japan are continuously adapting, emerging finance centers like Singapore and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are also stepping up their game. Pichai explained that this is Thailand’s opportunity to use its progressing financial infrastructure and services to attract business and investments, encouraging financial transactions and sharing of knowledge. The country’s transition aims to make its financial sector more nimble and innovative, aligning it with other international finance hubs. This is part of the government’s Ignite Thailand initiative, which emphasizes strategic investments and reforms in the bond market, aiming to position Thailand as the go-to place for future financial transactions. Being a finance hub can boost economic and technological growth. More foreign investment could increase Thailand’s GDP and create jobs in finance and related sectors like technology, real estate, and services. This could stimulate economic growth and improve living conditions for the Thai people. Other countries, such as Japan, Singapore, and the UAE, have taken different routes to become finance hubs. For example, in 2017, Japan launched its Global Financial City: Tokyo vision, which includes initiatives to support the establishment of finance and fintech businesses. Meanwhile, Singapore's strategy includes regulatory reforms, tax benefits, and infrastructure improvement. On the other hand, the UAE established the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) in 2004, which offers tax benefits and allows full foreign ownership. As for Thailand, steps to facilitate business operations will include legislative changes and the creation of a One-Stop Authority (OSA) to increase efficiency and support technological advancement. The OSA’s role will essentially make the hub investor-friendly by assisting businesses obtain licenses in various financial sectors. In its bid to become a global finance hub, Thailand's strengths are its comprehensive infrastructure development and regulatory framework. These factors, along with the country's hospitality services and various tourist attractions, could make it an attractive choice for investors. The Chairperson of the International Chamber of Commerce, Montri Mahaplerkpong, voiced the need for the Ignite Thailand program to ease small and medium-sized businesses' access to financial sources. He suggested that increased capital inflows could prompt local commercial banks to reduce their net interest rate spread, alleviating the financial burden on these smaller companies. File photo for reference only -- 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Former school director shot dead over land dispute in Krabi Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A former school director was fatally shot in a palm oil plantation, allegedly by a man angry over a land sale. Police in Krabi’s Khlong Thom district received a report of the incident yesterday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335702-former-school-director-shot-dead-over-land-dispute-in-krabi/

A former school director was fatally shot in a palm oil plantation, allegedly by a man angry over a land sale. Police in Krabi’s Khlong Thom district received a report of the incident yesterday. Police discovered the body of 61 year old Atchara in a palm plantation in Moo 8, Pru Din Na subdistrict, Khlong Thom district. Atchara, a former school director in the area, was found wearing agricultural clothing and had been shot in the torso with a shotgun. Nearby, her black-and-pink motorcycle, registration number ขงข 503 Krabi, was parked. Following the initial investigation, the police, along with forensic officers from the Krabi Provincial Police and volunteers from the Amarin Tai Lam Thap-Pru Din Na rescue unit, thoroughly examined the crime scene. According to the police report, the suspect lived approximately 200 metres from where the body was found. The suspect, whose identity was not disclosed, admitted to the shooting. He confessed to using a long-barrelled shotgun and firing two shots after lying in wait for the victim. The confrontation stemmed from a land dispute involving nearly 10 rai (approximately 4 acres) that his daughter had sold to the deceased. Though he had previously granted the land to his daughter, he was displeased with her decision to sell it, reported KhaoSod. Police have since detained the suspect for further questioning at the Khlong Thom Police Station. Further investigations are ongoing as the police seek to uncover more details surrounding the incident. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man admits ordering poison from Hat Yai in suicide pact Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A Thai man confessed to ordering the toxic substance known as potassium gold cyanide from Hat Yai and having it delivered to a dormitory in Nonthaburi. He claimed that he intended to consume it in a suicide pact. However, he vomited it all out. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335701-thai-man-admits-ordering-poison-from-hat-yai-in-suicide-pact/

A Thai man confessed to ordering the toxic substance known as potassium gold cyanide from Hat Yai and having it delivered to a dormitory in Nonthaburi. He claimed that he intended to consume it in a suicide pact. However, he vomited it all out. Yu’s confession comes amidst the mysterious death of Udomsak Thongmuan, also known as Dr Keng, a hospital academic from Chanthaburi province. Dr Keng had gone missing from her home on August 10 before being found in a rented room with 34 year old Yu in Nonthaburi. The pair later moved to Ayutthaya province, where Dr Keng ultimately passed away under suspicious circumstances. It was reported yesterday, August 15, that Yu admitted to ordering a specific poison, known as gold salt or KAu(CN)2. According to Yu, Dr Keng suggested they ingest cyanide together but Yu lost his nerve and merely watched as Dr Keng consumed the substance before collapsing in front of him. Gold salt is widely used as a critical component in gold plating and alloy processes, including acidic, neutral, and alkaline cyanide gold plating methods. Yu revealed that he had ordered it from Hat Yai, Songkhla province, and had it delivered to their dormitory in Nonthaburi. Yu claimed that upon reaching their room in Ayutthaya, they planned to commit suicide together using two glasses. He poured the gold salt into Dr Keng’s glass and his own, but after taking a sip, Yu vomited everything out. Seeing Dr Keng in a dire state, Yu called an ambulance. Police plan to send Yu today for a medical examination at the Police General Hospital. The details of any potential charges will depend on further investigation and case linkage. Police were able to pinpoint the use of poison after discovering a clear plastic bag in the trash at the Ayutthaya residence. This evidence, combined with Yu’s confession about ordering the gold salt, led to their conclusions. Yu’s confession has shed light on the tragic events leading to Dr Keng’s death. The investigation continues as police piece together the circumstances surrounding the incident, reported KhaoSod. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai), or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress, or depression. Seek help. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian dad’s Phuket heartbreak: Wife bolts, leaves him penniless Photo by เอกภพ ทองทับ via Khao Phuket A Russian man and his five year old son living in Phuket appealed for help after his Thai wife left him penniless and took his belongings. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335700-russian-dad’s-phuket-heartbreak-wife-bolts-leaves-him-penniless/

A Russian man and his five year old son living in Phuket appealed for help after his Thai wife left him penniless and took his belongings. A Thai man, Ekkawit Suratwadee, shared the story of 57 year old Russian man Oleg Magdeev and his five year old son on social media, hoping to seek assistance for the foreigner. Magdeev wanted to stay and work legally in Thailand to care for his son after his Thai wife left them. Magdeev revealed to Ekkawit that he had come to Thailand to work as a shipmaster. He lost his job during the pandemic and decided to relocate to the central province of Chainart, the home province of his Thai wife. Magdeev bought a car and a plot of land and also built a house in Chainart, all in his wife’s name. The car was later repossessed by a finance company because she failed to make the monthly loan payments. After divorcing her, Magdeev was left destitute as all valuables were in her name. Magdeev returned to Phuket and rented a house in the Thalang district but has been unable to pay the rent over the past few months. He also rented a motorcycle to take his son to school but was unable to pay the rent on that as well. Magdeev expressed that he wanted a job to earn a living and care for his young son. He could drive and repair boats up to 60 feet in length but his boat licence had expired. He is also capable of repairing Thai landlady support Ekkawit disclosed that his landlady, Kanda, allowed Magdeev and his son to stay in her property even though he couldn’t pay the rent. Kanda stated that Magdeev wanted to raise catfish for sale and asked for her support. She wanted to help him but was concerned that his actions might violate the law. Nevertheless, she felt she had no choice but to assist the pair. Kanda decided to invest in a catfish pond for the Russian man and bought the fish to sell at the nearby market, giving the proceeds to the foreigner. She wanted Magdeev to be able to work legally. Many Thai netizens expressed their concerns for Magdeev and his son, with many offering help and expressing interest in making donations. Some condemned his Thai ex-wife for abandoning her young son. Phuket Times later reported that Magdeev had visited the Russian Embassy to find a solution to his problem but no updates have been provided. By Petch Petpailin Photo by เอกภพ ทองทับ via Khao Phuket Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribea

British family struggles with father’s funeral costs in Thailand Photo courtesy of Julie Robertson via Sunderland Echo The sudden death of a British man from Sunderland has left his family reeling, both emotionally and financially. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335699-british-family-struggles-with-father’s-funeral-costs-in-thailand/