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File photo for reference only In the historic chapel of Barangay Kapitangan, Paombong, Bulacan, the century-old practice of re-enacting the Passion of Christ drew thousands of spectators and devotees this Good Friday. The spectacle featured faith healers nailed to wooden crosses in a scene echoing Christ's crucifixion, a vivid tradition despite the scorching summer heat. As the crowd gathered, they witnessed the intense manifestation of faith through a ritual where two individuals, a man and a woman, were physically nailed to crosses at a man-made Golgotha beside the chapel. This solemn act began at 11:30 a.m., amidst native actors portraying Roman centurions, and continued for two minutes before the nails were carefully removed. The re-enactment, though not endorsed by the Catholic Church, holds deep spiritual significance for participants. Many faith healers view this act as a Lenten vow, afterward confessing to priests and continuing their mission to heal without charge. They believe the Golgotha serves as a "graduate school" for these healers, some of whom establish their own healing chapels. Among these "fulfilled faith healers" is Amparo Santos, or "Mother Paring," known for her dedication and past crucifixions over 15 consecutive years. Others like Timoteo "Tammy" Mondragon and "Ka Precy" have also engaged in this practice, illustrating the deep devotion surrounding these acts. Beyond crucifixions, the faithful partake in the veneration of the Mahal na Poong Sto. Cristo, a revered crucifix bathed in perfumed oil. Believers gather to collect the oil, attributing healing powers to it, maintaining a long-standing Lenten tradition. This annual observation in Barangay Kapitangan dates back to the 1940s and showcases vibrant, albeit intense, religious expressions. During Holy Week, the region also draws visitors to places such as the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy, Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto Shrine, and other revered sites across Bulacan, all demonstrating the deep-rooted faith that unites these communities, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-04-18

File photo for reference only With over 26 million students on their school break, experts are raising alarms about the risks posed by extreme heat, especially to young children spending extended periods outdoors or in inadequately cooled homes. Joy Sampang, Save the Children’s Early Childhood Care and Development Advisor, emphasized the vulnerability of children, particularly those under the age of five, during the scorching weather. Children's inability to regulate their body temperature effectively puts them at higher risk during play and outdoor activities. The onset of the "summer" break starting April 16, syncs with dangerously high heat indices ranging from 42°C to 47°C across the Philippines, as reported by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA). Sampang highlights that high temperatures not only have immediate risks such as heatstroke and dehydration but also long-term impacts, including heightened risks of respiratory issues, kidney disease, and emotional distress. "Young children might not recognize or express symptoms of heat-related distress, making them more susceptible," she said. Additionally, the ability of children to focus and learn is compromised under such conditions. Given the situation's severity, proactive measures are urged by Save the Children to protect them. Sampang calls for creating safe environments conducive to learning and play despite the heat, urging for both government intervention and community support. To assist families, Save the Children offers five practical strategies: Use child-friendly language: Explain the hot weather risks using relatable terms, such as comparing seeking shade to birds finding cool spots. Offer reassurance: Normalize feelings of discomfort in the heat, ensuring children that adults are taking care of them. Create cooling corners: Set up shaded, cozy spaces with pillows, books, and cooling packs for children to retreat to when overheated. Practice breathing techniques: Techniques like "smell the flower, blow the candle" can help children remain calm and centered. Encourage self-expression: Invite children to draw or talk about their feelings, helping them process and cope with the heat. As climate change drives temperatures to new extremes, these measures highlight the importance of keeping children safe and supported during intense heatwaves, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-04-18

Tragedy Deepens as Two More Bodies Recovered from Bangkok Construction Collapse Picture courtesy of KhaoSod The ongoing tragedy at Bangkok's State Audit Office construction site took a grim turn today, as rescue teams uncovered two more bodies from the debris, nearly three weeks after the building collapsed due to an earthquake in Myanmar. This discovery raises the death toll further and intensifies scrutiny on allegations of corruption and negligence linked to the disaster. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358149-tragedy-deepens-as-two-more-bodies-recovered-from-bangkok-construction-collapse/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod The ongoing tragedy at Bangkok's State Audit Office construction site took a grim turn today, as rescue teams uncovered two more bodies from the debris, nearly three weeks after the building collapsed due to an earthquake in Myanmar. This discovery raises the death toll further and intensifies scrutiny on allegations of corruption and negligence linked to the disaster. The bodies, found early this morning in Zone C of the site on Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road in Chatuchak district, have been sent to the Police General Hospital for identification. The collapse, occurring on March 28, has evolved into a high-profile investigation with the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) stepping in to handle the case, owing to its complexity and gravity. Emerging allegations include bid rigging, forgery, and falsified engineering signatures, reportedly involving a Chinese contractor associated with the project. These claims have shifted the focus from mere structural failure to broader systemic issues within the construction oversight. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt was present at the site yesterday, overseeing ongoing recovery efforts in Zone B. The relentless search has affected 103 individuals so far, with 42 confirmed dead, nine injured, and 50 still unaccounted for. Rescue operations continue, with heavy machinery deployed to meticulously sift through the rubble in hopes of finding other victims trapped beneath the concrete remains. Amidst the physical recovery efforts, the pursuit of accountability grows. The incident has sparked outrage, with demands for justice for those affected and questions over how such a catastrophic failure was allowed to unfold. The revelation of potential corruption and negligence casts a shadow over the construction project, spotlighting the urgent need for reforms and accountability in the construction industry to prevent future tragedies, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-18

Thailand Eyes Landmark Peace Deal in Conflict-Ridden Deep South Photo courtesy of The Nation A promising mission scheduled for next week could represent a significant turning point in the quest for peace in Thailand's conflict-plagued Deep South. Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced plans to visit the provinces of Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat on April 26 and 27. This visit is expected to be crucial in shaping a final peace strategy. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358148-thailand-eyes-landmark-peace-deal-in-conflict-ridden-deep-south/

Photo courtesy of The Nation A promising mission scheduled for next week could represent a significant turning point in the quest for peace in Thailand's conflict-plagued Deep South. Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced plans to visit the provinces of Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat on April 26 and 27. This visit is expected to be crucial in shaping a final peace strategy. "This discussion may be the final one before a conclusive strategy is drawn up in coordination with the strategy department. The details will then be reviewed and officially announced," stated Phumtham. The upcoming talks follow collaborative discussions between Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, reinforcing Malaysia's role as a facilitator in ongoing peace negotiations. "Thailand welcomes this support in the interest of restoring peace," Phumtham added, highlighting the Thai government's commitment to resolving a conflict that has afflicted the Deep South for decades. During his visit, the Minister will meet with local business operators, district chiefs, police officers, and personnel from the Internal Security Operations Command to acquire grassroots insights critical for finalising the national security framework. Phumtham also noted that the composition of Thailand's peace talks committee is still under deliberation, with strategic directions for the three southern border provinces yet to be finalised. A pivotal proposal under consideration would lift martial law in four districts of the region, following Cabinet approval during a recent mobile meeting in Songkhla province. Implementing this change would signify a major shift in easing military oversight in areas traditionally subjected to stringent security measures. "I would like to reiterate that the resolution of the problems in the three southern border provinces is progressing," Phumtham reassured. With thousands of lives lost over two decades in the insurgency affecting Thailand's southernmost provinces, there is growing optimism that Malaysia's support and Bangkok's renewed political resolve could pave the way to lasting peace. As the region braces for this crucial mission, the potential for a new era of stability and security looms closer than ever before, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-18

Security Guard's Act of Honesty Shines at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport Picture courtesy of Thailand News A heartwarming story from Suvarnabhumi International Airport is drawing admiration across Thailand after security guard Patchara Phiraphan swiftly returned a lost bag filled with gold necklaces to its owner just before his flight to India. The feel-good incident, captured on CCTV at Gate 8, unfolded today, April 18. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358147-security-guards-act-of-honesty-shines-at-bangkoks-suvarnabhumi-airport/

Picture courtesy of Thailand News A heartwarming story from Suvarnabhumi International Airport is drawing admiration across Thailand after security guard Patchara Phiraphan swiftly returned a lost bag filled with gold necklaces to its owner just before his flight to India. The feel-good incident, captured on CCTV at Gate 8, unfolded today, April 18. While on duty, Patchara noticed a small bag on the floor, which upon inspection, was revealed to contain valuable gold jewellery. Acting promptly, she alerted the airport's operations centre, sparking a digital hunt using CCTV and facial recognition to locate the bag's owner, an Indian traveller who had misplaced it after disembarking a shuttle bus. Thanks to the quick response, airport staff were able to intercept the passenger at the security checkpoint moments before his departure. Overjoyed and emotional, he was reunited with his precious belongings, thanks to Patchara's integrity and quick thinking. Suvarnabhumi Airport director Kittipong Kittikhajorn announced that Patchara, along with her colleagues Itthiphon Chankla and a Royal Thai Army Police officer, will receive formal recognition through plaques and certificates for their commendable actions. The gold—a 2-salung necklace—had considerable value, particularly given the current high gold prices. Despite the temptation, Patchara's immediate instinct was to ensure its return, exemplifying what an airport spokesperson described as "the highest standard of Thai hospitality." This act of honesty has gone viral, with social media users celebrating Patchara as a "national treasure" and praising her for enhancing Thailand's image to international tourists. As aptly expressed by one traveller: "In a world full of turbulence, it’s nice to know Suvarnabhumi still has a few angels on the ground.", reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-18

Northern Thailand and Myanmar Experience Minor Earthquake Series File photo for reference only A series of minor earthquakes rattled northern Thailand and Myanmar early today, raising concern but fortunately resulting in no reported damage. According to the Thai Meteorological Department's Earthquake Observation Division, seven quakes were recorded on April 18, with magnitudes ranging from 1.4 to 4.1. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358146-northern-thailand-and-myanmar-experience-minor-earthquake-series/

File photo for reference only A series of minor earthquakes rattled northern Thailand and Myanmar early today, raising concern but fortunately resulting in no reported damage. According to the Thai Meteorological Department's Earthquake Observation Division, seven quakes were recorded on April 18, with magnitudes ranging from 1.4 to 4.1. Most of the seismic activity took place in Myanmar, except for one quake felt in Thailand. This occurred at 1:12 am in Na Yang Subdistrict, Sop Prap district, Lampang province, registering a magnitude of 1.4 at a shallow depth of 5 kilometres. Due to its low intensity, it was unlikely noticeable to residents. The strongest tremor, a magnitude 4.1 quake, struck Myanmar at 4:27 am, originating 10 kilometres deep and approximately 345 kilometres northwest of Mae Hong Son province. Despite its proximity, no damage or casualties were reported in Thailand, confirmed by the Earthquake Observation Division. Situated near tectonic fault lines, both Myanmar and Northern Thailand experience frequent seismic activity. Clusters of quakes can heighten public concern, leading officials to assure residents to stay calm yet vigilant. Special attention is directed towards those in seismic-prone provinces like Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Lampang. Authorities encourage the public to stay informed through official updates. Real-time earthquake information is available on the division's website and social media platforms under EarthquakeTMD, including Facebook, X, Telegram, YouTube, TikTok, and the EarthquakeTMD mobile app. Experts stress the importance of continued seismic monitoring to detect potential major events early. Enhanced monitoring systems and public awareness in Thailand's northern provinces have led to better detection and understanding of these minor events, contributing to improved earthquake readiness, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-18

Thief Posing as Monk Steals 300,000 Baht from Ubon Ratchathani Temple Pictures courtesy of MGR Online In a brazen act of deception, a thief dressed as a monk made off with 300,000 baht from the abbot’s quarters at Wat Thaisikha Patiphataram in Ubon Ratchathani’s Na Yia district. This incident, the second such theft at the temple, has prompted a local police investigation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358145-thief-posing-as-monk-steals-300000-baht-from-ubon-ratchathani-temple/

Pictures courtesy of MGR Online In a brazen act of deception, a thief dressed as a monk made off with 300,000 baht from the abbot’s quarters at Wat Thaisikha Patiphataram in Ubon Ratchathani’s Na Yia district. This incident, the second such theft at the temple, has prompted a local police investigation. The theft occurred on April 5 and was captured on CCTV, with the footage subsequently shared by the Warin Chamrap Ban Hao Facebook page. The video shows the suspect, dressed in monk attire, leaving with a cloth bag containing the stolen cash. Phra Maha Nukan, the temple's abbot, reported the crime to Police Captain Surachart Yodkham after discovering the theft at 11 am. The funds, intended for constructing a new kitchen, were taken by an individual who accessed the quarters using keys concealed at the door. Upon reviewing CCTV footage on April 16, the abbot identified suspicious details about the thief’s attire. The man wore a saffron robe without the customary undershirt and had a noticeable fair shoulder – inconsistent with a genuine monk, who would typically have tanned skin from regular sun exposure. This incident echoed a previous theft on December 5 last year, when money intended for straw purchases was stolen under similar circumstances, although no suspect was identified at the time. Determined to prevent further incidents, the temple had since installed CCTV, which successfully captured the recent crime. Local police are actively comparing the footage with criminal records and seeking assistance from village headmen to identify the impostor. Given the timing of the theft during peak foot traffic, authorities believe the suspect is familiar with the temple’s operations. The widely-shared footage aims to aid the investigation by ensuring broad community awareness, as police continue their search for the suspect believed to know the temple's routines and vulnerabilities, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-18

Tourist Brawl on Phuket’s Bangla Road Sparks Online Outrage - video Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News A viral video capturing a vicious brawl between foreign tourists on Phuket's infamous Bangla Road has ignited widespread online debate and criticism, particularly concerning Thailand’s visa policies and the presence of foreign gangs. The dramatic incident turned a lively nightlife scene into a virtual boxing ring, drawing heavy scrutiny. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358144-tourist-brawl-on-phuket’s-bangla-road-sparks-online-outrage-video/

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News A viral video capturing a vicious brawl between foreign tourists on Phuket's infamous Bangla Road has ignited widespread online debate and criticism, particularly concerning Thailand’s visa policies and the presence of foreign gangs. The dramatic incident turned a lively nightlife scene into a virtual boxing ring, drawing heavy scrutiny. The 48-second clip, shared by Phuket Expose on Facebook, shows two men attacking a third in a fierce fistfight, while bystanders looked on in shock without intervening. The post, captioned “Free visas, fiercely fighting 2-1, both good boxers,” sparked a flood of reactions, highlighting concerns about public safety and the potential influence of unchecked tourism policies. Witnesses report that the men dispersed and returned to their accommodations as if nothing had occurred. The incident has fed into concerns among locals about the nature of visiting tourists. Netizens used the comments section to vent their frustrations, with some linking the fight to Thailand's liberal visa policies and recent cannabis law reforms, suggesting these factors might attract unruly tourists. Comments ranged from humorous references to Muay Thai, the local martial art, to cynical suggestions about future venues for such brawls. Some netizens pointed to the broader implications of these events, questioning whether Thailand’s attractiveness as a tourist destination is overshadowed by rising incidents of foreigner-involved violence. Despite the lack of confirmed identities or nationalities for the brawlers, local police are reportedly reviewing CCTV footage and considering launching an investigation. This incident is just the latest in a series of public safety concerns tied to Thailand’s tourism industry, rebounding strongly post-pandemic. As Phuket and other hotspots like Pattaya experience surging tourist numbers, the balance between welcoming visitors and maintaining order is increasingly questioned by locals. Although there has been no official response from Thai immigration or Patong police thus far, it’s clear the event has heightened public discourse on how Thailand manages its booming tourism trade and the associated challenges, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-18

Phuket Launches Emergency Response to Combat Flash Floods Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News Phuket is mounting a robust emergency response as officials work to prevent flash floods and landslides amid heavy rain across the island. With forecasts predicting more downpours, the Phuket governor has issued an urgent call to action for all district chiefs and local government leaders to take immediate preventative measures. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358143-phuket-launches-emergency-response-to-combat-flash-floods/

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News Phuket is mounting a robust emergency response as officials work to prevent flash floods and landslides amid heavy rain across the island. With forecasts predicting more downpours, the Phuket governor has issued an urgent call to action for all district chiefs and local government leaders to take immediate preventative measures. Wichit Sutthaso, Chief of the Phuket Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office, reported that the provincial command centre activated district-level emergency teams on April 16, urging local administrative organisations to bolster flood defences. Efforts include dredging canals, clearing drains of debris, and removing weeds to facilitate water flow through aging infrastructure. In response, the Phuket Provincial Administrative Organisation deployed 36 water pumps to vulnerable locations, with 23 already placed in high-risk zones: Phuket Town: 9 sites, 10 pumps Thalang: 9 sites, 10 pumps Kathu: 2 sites, 3 pumps Additionally, 13 emergency pumps, including varied-sized units, are on standby for deployment where needed most. Local municipalities have launched proactive measures to ensure community safety. In the Ratsada subdistrict, Deputy Mayor Pranom Kaewprang led teams to assess rising water levels, employing fire trucks to wash roads and initiating drainage clean-ups. In the Wichit subdistrict, engineering teams addressed blocked waterways by clearing fallen trees and debris in key residential areas. Phuket City officials have distributed sandbags to residents in areas such as Talat Nuea and Talat Yai, providing emergency barriers to protect homes at risk of flooding. The Luang Pho Community received additional protective measures as pre-emptive safeguards against water intrusion. The Phuket Area 18 Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Centre is on high alert, having mobilised machinery and personnel to support provincial efforts 24/7. Officials urge residents to remain vigilant, stay informed through updates from local agencies, and seek emergency assistance if required. By coordinating a comprehensive island-wide response, Phuket aims to mitigate the impact of severe weather, prioritising the safety and well-being of its communities, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-18

Thailand Joins ASEAN in Trade Talks Pushback Against US Tariffs Picture of PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra courtesy of Thai News Thailand's Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is bolstering ASEAN's unified stance against proposed US tariff hikes, advocating for a collective approach in negotiations with the Trump administration. Following her meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at Government House on April 6, Paetongtarn emphasized the importance of ASEAN's unified voice in global trade discussions. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358142-thailand-joins-asean-in-trade-talks-pushback-against-us-tariffs/

Picture of PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra courtesy of Thai News Thailand's Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is bolstering ASEAN's unified stance against proposed US tariff hikes, advocating for a collective approach in negotiations with the Trump administration. Following her meeting with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at Government House on April 6, Paetongtarn emphasized the importance of ASEAN's unified voice in global trade discussions. Highlighting ASEAN's economic might, representing a collective population of 670 million, Paetongtarn stressed that a regional consensus is key to productive talks with the US. "We have a set of decent proposals to present to the US during the talks. It could be a win-win situation for both sides," she stated. This meeting is part of ongoing diplomatic efforts, building on previous engagements between the leaders. In preparation for the upcoming ASEAN meeting focused on the US tariff issue, Thailand has pledged full support for the bloc's unified approach. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira is scheduled to lead a Thai delegation to Washington next week, following US President Donald Trump's announcement of tariff changes, including a maintained 10% levy. Thailand, with a significant US$45.6 billion trade surplus with the US, ranks as America's 11th largest trade partner. The tariff discussions come amid broader regional cooperation plans, including the proposed Golok River bridge linking Thailand and Malaysia, aimed at completion by 2027. Furthering regional ties, Paetongtarn highlighted initiatives to strengthen connections between rubber industries in Malaysia and Thailand, benefiting farmers and small businesses across borders. On the complex issue of peace in Thailand's southern border provinces, Paetongtarn reiterated support for new negotiation teams, with Malaysia continuing its mediator role in the conflict. This aligns with broader regional stability efforts, as evidenced by discreet diplomatic engagements. In a notable development, former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra hosted Anwar at the Rosewood Bangkok Hotel for a private dinner, which reportedly involved discussions with Myanmar junta chief Min Aung Hlaing on reviving ASEAN's five-point consensus to address Myanmar’s political crisis post-coup. In summary, Thailand's engagement through ASEAN exemplifies a strategic effort to navigate the challenging trade landscape with the US, while also fostering regional cooperation and addressing mutual geopolitical concerns, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-18

Pheu Thai Party Revamps Strategy Amid Political and Economic Challenges File photo for reference only In an effort to overcome stagnation and regain public support, Thailand's Pheu Thai Party, guided by the influential Thaksin Shinawatra, is recalibrating its approach following challenges with stalled flagship policies and declining economic performance. This comes amid speculation of a "super deal" facilitating Thaksin’s return to Thailand, ostensibly bypassing imprisonment, which has sparked controversy within the party’s base. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358141-pheu-thai-party-revamps-strategy-amid-political-and-economic-challenges/

File photo for reference only In an effort to overcome stagnation and regain public support, Thailand's Pheu Thai Party, guided by the influential Thaksin Shinawatra, is recalibrating its approach following challenges with stalled flagship policies and declining economic performance. This comes amid speculation of a "super deal" facilitating Thaksin’s return to Thailand, ostensibly bypassing imprisonment, which has sparked controversy within the party’s base. In the 2023 elections, Pheu Thai lost ground to the Move Forward Party, which had a clear political stance and avoided alliances with controversial figures. This loss underscored the need for Pheu Thai to redefine its strategy after nearly two years under the leadership of Prime Ministers Srettha and Paetongtarn. The current administration has struggled with critical issues like high traffic, inflation, and underutilised urban areas. Crucially, ambitious policies like the 10,000-baht digital wallet, entertainment complexes, and the Land Bridge project have not materialised as planned. Opposition from conservative networks and delayed legislations hampered their rollout, impeding the government's efforts to boost the economy. Recent strategies by Thaksin indicate a shift towards short-term economic policies to stimulate growth and improve approval ratings. Key focus areas include tackling household and farmer debt, addressing the drug problem, and navigating the impacts of the US-China trade war. Thaksin has proposed a Cabinet reshuffle to introduce new talents with innovative ideas. There is discussion of replacing figures in pivotal economic ministries, notably inviting a "banking executive" to potentially head the Ministry of Finance. Thaksin's commitment to battling household debt and restructuring loans aims to rejuvenate consumer spending and drive economic recovery. The proposed reshuffle and policy shifts reflect Pheu Thai’s urgency to turn the political and economic tide. By realigning its strategies and prioritising economic relief, the party aspires to regain its historical strengths and revive its popularity ahead of the 2027 general election. Whether these moves will succeed in restoring trust and momentum remains to be seen, as the party navigates this critical juncture in its political journey, reported The Nation. -- 2025-04-18

Thai Police Rescue Kidnapped Indian Nationals in Bangkok Photo via Facebook/ บิ๊กเกรียน In a successful operation in Bangkok, police rescued four Indian nationals who were kidnapped by fellow countrymen in a ransom scheme. The rescue mission unfolded after Sanjeeve Kumar, an Indian resident in Bangkok, approached Yannawa Police Station on April 16 to report the abduction of his friends, Ramesh Sharmar and Amandeep Kajal. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358138-thai-police-rescue-kidnapped-indian-nationals-in-bangkok/

Photo via Facebook/ บิ๊กเกรียน In a successful operation in Bangkok, police rescued four Indian nationals who were kidnapped by fellow countrymen in a ransom scheme. The rescue mission unfolded after Sanjeeve Kumar, an Indian resident in Bangkok, approached Yannawa Police Station on April 16 to report the abduction of his friends, Ramesh Sharmar and Amandeep Kajal. Kumar recounted that upon arriving in Bangkok on April 5, he, Sharmar, and Kajal initially stayed at a hotel in Sathon before moving to Silom. During their stay, they met an Indian national who offered an invitation to Vietnam. Due to visa delays, Kumar could not accompany them and allowed his friends to proceed alone on April 14. The situation turned dire when Sharmar’s sister, from India, informed Kumar about the ransom demand of 2.5 million rupees (around 980,000 baht) after receiving a call from one of the captors. Alarmed, Kumar notified the police, setting in motion the investigation that led to the house on Soi Sukhumvit 109 in Yannawa district. Police discovered two Indian suspects attempting to flee during the raid. Inside, they found four Indian nationals—among them Sharmar and Kajal—held in a bedroom with three additional guards of undisclosed nationality. Sandu Deep, one suspected kidnapper, was identified, but further details on the gang remain limited. The suspects face legal action under Section 313 of Thai Criminal Law for unlawful detention for ransom, carrying severe penalties such as life imprisonment, hefty fines, or even the death penalty. The operation highlights both the complexities of international crime cases in Thailand and the effective response of the Thai police force in handling potential diplomatic sensitivities and ensuring justice, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-18

Bangkok Set for Transformation with Revised City Governance Law Photo courtesy of Global Travel News and Updates Bangkok is on the brink of a significant transformation as city officials announce plans to overhaul the outdated Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) Act of 1985. This long-anticipated update aims to modernise how the bustling capital is managed, addressing ongoing urban challenges for future generations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358137-bangkok-set-for-transformation-with-revised-city-governance-law/

Photo courtesy of Global Travel News and Updates Bangkok is on the brink of a significant transformation as city officials announce plans to overhaul the outdated Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) Act of 1985. This long-anticipated update aims to modernise how the bustling capital is managed, addressing ongoing urban challenges for future generations. Aekwaranyu Amrapal, spokesperson for the BMA, revealed the proposed changes on April 17, emphasising the need to adapt to a 21st-century metropolis. Key issues currently plaguing Bangkok include persistent pavement excavations, severe traffic congestion, and poorly managed spaces under expressways. Existing legal and administrative constraints have perpetuated these problems. The amendments focus on three primary areas: duties and powers, funding and budget, and administrative structure. If enacted, the BMA would have enhanced authority to address environmental regulations, social services, and the city’s informal economy. This includes setting vehicle and factory emissions standards, expanding support for vulnerable groups, and enforcing rules against illegal businesses. Alongside increased powers, the proposal also introduces financial reforms. New taxes such as pollution, hotel, cigarette, and a levy on older vehicles could be implemented, enabling the BMA to generate additional revenue for urban development projects. To ensure public engagement, the BMA has opened an online platform for citizen feedback, accepting comments until May 18. "This is a crucial moment for Bangkok," Aekwaranyu explained. “Our goal is a more agile, service-oriented city with robust accountability.” With pressing urban challenges like traffic congestion, pollution, and overstretched infrastructure, Bangkok faces the critical question: can these legislative changes finally address the city’s enduring issues? The proposed update promises a pivotal shift towards a cleaner, more efficiently managed Bangkok, positioning the city to better meet the demands of its population and environment, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-18

Thai Baht Set to Break Key 33/USD Level Amid US-China Trade Tensions File photo for reference only In light of escalating US-China trade tensions, the Thai baht may appreciate past the psychological barrier of 33 to the US dollar in the second quarter. This remark was made by the Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research) after the currency reached a six-month high. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358136-thai-baht-set-to-break-key-33usd-level-amid-us-china-trade-tensions/