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Authorities nab officials for issuing fraudulent farm land titles File photo for reference only Four land reform officials in Thailand have been arrested under the suspicion of illegally issuing land titles. The 600-rai (960,000 square meters) land parcel in question is in Nakhon Ratchasima where a factory is said to have been illegally dumping wastewater. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330264-authorities-nab-officials-for-issuing-fraudulent-farm-land-titles/

Four land reform officials in Thailand have been arrested under the suspicion of illegally issuing land titles. The 600-rai (960,000 square meters) land parcel in question is in Nakhon Ratchasima where a factory is said to have been illegally dumping wastewater. The arrests were made following coordinated raids in Bangkok, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Udon Thani. The suspects, all working at the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Land Reform Office, were named as Akaradet Rianghin, Wilailak Butda, Chokesak Maneechantra, and Preecha Praphanukul. Deputy Commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau, Charoonkiat Pankaew, stated that the accused had issued agricultural land rights to 13 individuals, who declared themselves as farmers. Interestingly, most of the granted land was being used to accommodate wastewater reservoirs, illegally operating from a tapioca factory. Evidence suggested the land rights were issued in a hurry without any official surveys and contained incorrect information. It was also discerned that some recipients were not farmers, but factory workers. The Agricultural Land Reform Office, charged with issuing land right documents for the cultivation in deteriorating forest areas, is set to observe the land. During the raid, an advisor to the agriculture and cooperatives minister, Thanadol Suwannarit, revealed that the land had been changed into unpleasantly smelling ponds that were on the receiving end of the factory's wastewater, even though their official designation was algae-growing ponds. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

American tourist and Thai girlfriend drown in Phuket Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post An American tourist and his Thai girlfriend drowned after allegedly ignoring a red flag weather warning at Mai Khao Beach in Phuket. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330262-american-tourist-and-thai-girlfriend-drown-in-phuket/

An American tourist and his Thai girlfriend drowned after allegedly ignoring a red flag weather warning at Mai Khao Beach in Phuket. The bodies of 45 year old James Edmond Newman from New York, and 48 year old Waranya Chanphai from Surin province, were discovered on Monday morning, June 17. Police Major Ronnapoom Permpoon of the Thachatchai Police Station stated that the police received a report at 7.07am. Upon arrival, they found Newman’s body washed ashore, clad only in black shorts and bearing bruises likely caused by the violent impact of the waves. Waranya was found floating a few feet offshore. Both bodies were sent to Thalang Hospital for post-mortem examinations to determine the exact causes of death. The couple had checked into a nearby hotel on June 16 and ventured to swim at the beach the following morning. “It is believed that one of them was swept away by a wave, and when the other attempted to help, they too were struck and drowned. However, we are still investigating the exact cause of death.” Winai Sae-aew, the village council leader, reported that hotel staff alerted him to the foreigner’s drowning. “I immediately went to the scene and called the rescue team and police. Residents also helped retrieve both bodies. They may have been guests of Mai Khao Palm Beach Resort and were swimming in the morning when there was no lifeguard present, despite the red flag warning.” This incident marks the second drowning of a US citizen in Thailand within two weeks. Just the day before, James Everett du Bois, a 49 year old US Army veteran, was swept out to sea while trying to save his wife and toddler son at Nai Harn Beach in Phuket. While his wife managed to return to shore and their son was rescued by lifeguards, du Bois was tragically lost to the powerful current. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok post Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourists Warned About Dangerous Slope in Na Jomtien Municipality Due to Beach Erosion File photo for reference only The local government of Na Jomtien has put up warning signs for tourists about a perilous incline at the Na Jomtien Beach, brought about by erosion. The signs advise people frequenting the beach to stay clear of the area for the time being. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330261-tourists-warned-about-dangerous-slope-in-na-jomtien-municipality-due-to-beach-erosion/

The local government of Na Jomtien has put up warning signs for tourists about a perilous incline at the Na Jomtien Beach, brought about by erosion. The signs advise people frequenting the beach to stay clear of the area for the time being. Due to the effects of monsoon waves and robust winds, a significant portion of the beach (around 1,000 meters in length) has seen severe erosion. This has resulted in a sharp incline that's as tall as 1.5-2 meters. The uneven sand in the eroded area presents a safety risk for locals and tourists alike. Because of this, authorities are insisting that tourists particularly stay away from the area during the night when visibility is low. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Another New Elephant Calf Welcomed at Pattaya's Nong Nooch Garden File photo for reference only The Pattaya Nong Nooch Tropical Garden welcomed another newborn elephant with a special ceremony on June 19, 2024. The function was led by Phra Kru Kesem Kittisophon, the head of Wat Samakkhi Banphot. Consistent with Thai traditions, the elephants were adorned with flower necklaces and their foreheads were smeared with white powder for prosperity. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330260-another-new-elephant-calf-welcomed-at-pattayas-nong-nooch-garden/

The Pattaya Nong Nooch Tropical Garden welcomed another newborn elephant with a special ceremony on June 19, 2024. The function was led by Phra Kru Kesem Kittisophon, the head of Wat Samakkhi Banphot. Consistent with Thai traditions, the elephants were adorned with flower necklaces and their foreheads were smeared with white powder for prosperity. The baby elephant, a healthy boy called Plai Ong-Aat, was born on June 8, 2024, at 4:00 AM to his mother Phang Susara Kam. Remarkably, Phang Susara Kam, now 29, has given birth to more than four calves this year. The president of the garden, Mr. Kampol Tansajja, expressed joy over the number of elephant births in 2024. He assured that the Pattaya Nong Nooch Tropical Garden is dedicated to offering top-class care for its elephants. Presently, the garden is home to 78 elephants and predicts more to be born in this year. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok Police Arrest Colombian Suspect Following International Manhunt File photo for reference only Thai immigration officers have captured a wanted Colombian criminal in the busy city of Bangkok. This arrest was made possible because of a thorough joint operation with Malaysian authorities who were looking into a big theft case. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330259-bangkok-police-arrest-colombian-suspect-following-international-manhunt/

Thai immigration officers have captured a wanted Colombian criminal in the busy city of Bangkok. This arrest was made possible because of a thorough joint operation with Malaysian authorities who were looking into a big theft case. On May 31, 2024, a group of robbers hit the home of a prominent businessman in Kuala Lumpur and managed to steal items worth over 70 million baht. The bold robbery shocked the city, leading to quick action from the police. Malaysian police identified eight suspects in this daring robbery. Seven of them were arrested successfully, but the one who planned the robbery eluded capture. This person is known as Mr. Lopez, a 30-year-old from Guatemala, who fled illegally across the border into Thailand. Having received information that Mr. Lopez had arrived in Songkhla and was headed for Bangkok, Thai officers acted quickly and found him in a luxury hotel in Sukhumvit, an area of Khlong Toei, where they arrested him peacefully. During questioning, he revealed his real name as Mr. Miguel, a 39-year-old Colombian citizen. As suspected, there was no record of him entering Thailand legally. He was unwilling to share any information about his criminal activities or his accomplices. Further inquiries showed that Mr. Miguel had a criminal past. In 2010, he and his associates were part of a well-known gang of serial robbers. His name was red-flagged on Thailand Immigration Bureau’s watch list. Mr. Miguel is now facing charges for entering Thailand illegally. The authorities are preparing to send him back to Malaysia, where he will face trial for his part in the massive theft. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

71-Year-Old Amputee Stabs Harasser in Bang Pakong Cycling Incident File photo for reference only A 71-year-old man with an amputated leg has been arrested after allegedly stabbing a younger man to death out of frustration over continuous harassment. After the incident, the suspect reportedly cycled home and was later arrested by the police. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330181-71-year-old-amputee-stabs-harasser-in-bang-pakong-cycling-incident/

A 71-year-old man with an amputated leg has been arrested after allegedly stabbing a younger man to death out of frustration over continuous harassment. After the incident, the suspect reportedly cycled home and was later arrested by the police. The scene of the crime, at a roadside pavilion near Wat Bang Samak entrance in the province of Chachoengsao, was attended by police, forensic specialists, a standby doctor from Bang Pakong Hospital, and rescue volunteers. They arrived past midnight to find the 45-year-old deceased, identified only as Neng, lying face-down in a pool of blood. An autopsy revealed a wound on Neng's left cheekbone and two stab wounds, one in the solar plexus and the other on his left rib side. The crime scene was thoroughly examined before the body was sent for a detailed autopsy. The police interview with Neng's father, Chin, was complicated due to his intoxication. He gave inconsistent information but mentioned not having officially registered Neng's birth. Chin also said that Neng had often been violent towards him, leading to their estrangement. He claimed not to know who could have committed the crime. However, within two hours, the investigation team apprehended the prime suspect, Chaiyaphum, a 71-year-old amputee. Initially, Chaiyaphum denied any involvement in the crime but later confessed. Chaiyaphum told investigators that he often played chess with friends at the pavilion while selling lottery tickets. Neng frequently joined them, usually getting drunk and creating disturbances. The day of the incident, Chaiyaphum claimed that after being insulted by Neng, he stabbed him twice with a pocketknife before cycling home. This account matched the evidence found at the scene. Chaiyaphum is currently in custody at the Bang Pakong Police Station and faces charges of causing death by assault. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Illegal e-cigarette sales found during raids in Phuket's Patong, Ratsada areas File photo for reference only Police in Phuket have carried out a raid on the Weed Club in Patong and another location in Ratsada, following allegations of illegal e-cigarette sales. The investigation started after a tip-off to the Phuket governor, Sophon Suwannarat. The governor promptly delegated Phuket Deputy Governor Sattha Thongkham to work with other officials, including Suwit Suriyawong of the Phuket Provincial Office, Mueang Phuket District Chief Worasit Putjeeb, and Kathu District Chief Theeraphong Chuaychu. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330180-illegal-e-cigarette-sales-found-during-raids-in-phukets-patong-ratsada-areas/

Police in Phuket have carried out a raid on the Weed Club in Patong and another location in Ratsada, following allegations of illegal e-cigarette sales. The investigation started after a tip-off to the Phuket governor, Sophon Suwannarat. The governor promptly delegated Phuket Deputy Governor Sattha Thongkham to work with other officials, including Suwit Suriyawong of the Phuket Provincial Office, Mueang Phuket District Chief Worasit Putjeeb, and Kathu District Chief Theeraphong Chuaychu. The Chief of the Phuket Provincial Defense Office, Akara Suwatthikul, led the investigation with support from the Volunteer Defense Corps (OrSor) and Krit Thepbamrung, head of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) in Phuket. Acting on a warrant issued on June 13, the officials searched a rented house on Soi Kuku, Ratsada and seized 25 e-cigarettes, 229 e-cigarette suction tips, and 257 cigarette packets. They also arrested one person and confiscated B397 in cash. Another operation at the Weed Club in Patong led to the seizure of 482 e-cigarettes, 787 e-cigarette tips, and 74 e-cigarette liquid bottles. They also arrested an employee from Myanmar. Both individuals were taken into custody and face charges under Sections 203 and 204 of the 2017 Excise Act for possessing and selling goods without paying the necessary taxes. Furthermore, the employee from Myanmar was charged with illegally working beyond his official permissions. The report did not specify any charges against the owners or managers of the Weed Club. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Outranks Malaysia in ASEAN Standings File photo for reference only Thailand has made a substantial jump in the global competitiveness rankings, surpassing Malaysia to secure the second position within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The 2024 report by the IMD World Competitiveness Centre indicates that Thailand has moved up five positions to rank 25th globally, denoting a significant improvement in its economic performance. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330179-thailand-outranks-malaysia-in-asean-standings/

Thailand has made a substantial jump in the global competitiveness rankings, surpassing Malaysia to secure the second position within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The 2024 report by the IMD World Competitiveness Centre indicates that Thailand has moved up five positions to rank 25th globally, denoting a significant improvement in its economic performance. Danucha Pichayanan, Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Council, informed the Cabinet of this incredible progress. The ranking, which assessed 67 economic regions, acknowledged Thailand's noteworthy rise. Mr. Pichayanan stated, "Thailand’s economic performance ranking has increased by 11 positions, going from 16th to 5th, primarily due to stronger international trade and an improved current account balance in comparison to last year.” However, Thailand's net score dipped slightly from 74.5 to 72.5, following a similar trend witnessed in most other economic zones since 2023. Despite this slight dip, a primary factor contributing to this accomplishment was the country's performance in international trade. Thailand jumped an impressive 23 positions, moving from 29th to 6th. Additionally, its domestic economy showed growth, rising from 44th to 39th place. There were minimal changes in government efficiency, although public finance ranking improved to 22nd position, three places up from the previous year. Tax policy and social framework remained steady at the 8th and 47th places, respectively. However, the institutional framework slipped five positions to 39th. Business efficiency improved, climbing three spaces to hold the 20th position, driven by improved management practices, which rose seven positions to 15th. The rating for attitudes and values also improved slightly, moving up to 18th place. In terms of infrastructure, most categories remained stable from last year. Technological infrastructure and education maintained their previous positions at 25th and 54th, respectively. Basic infrastructure and scientific infrastructure experienced slight drops, while health and environment descended by two positions, ranking 55th. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fuel theft suspect arrested following intense high-speed police chase File photo for reference only A thrilling foot chase by the police has led to the arrest of a suspect accused of a series of fuel thefts across three provinces. The suspect, 32-year-old Natthawut, was arrested in a rented room after attempting to outrun the police. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330177-fuel-theft-suspect-arrested-following-intense-high-speed-police-chase/

A thrilling foot chase by the police has led to the arrest of a suspect accused of a series of fuel thefts across three provinces. The suspect, 32-year-old Natthawut, was arrested in a rented room after attempting to outrun the police. Using his heavily modified white pickup truck, Natthawut had escaped several times from petrol stations, after filling up large containers with fuel. The truck was spotted with increasing frequency at various fuel theft incidents. A serious incident took place on Rama II Road when a 25-year-old petrol station employee, Thad, was injured. Thad had tried to hold onto the back of the fleeing truck but fell off and hurt his arm. This incident triggered the police to investigate further. Officers from the Yisarn Police Station, in collaboration with the Provincial Police Region 7 and the Crime Suppression Division, found the suspect's location. They traced his mobile phone signal to a rented room where they found lots of drums filled with fuel and engine oil. When police attempted to arrest him, Natthawut broke a bathroom window and ran off through a nearby village and forest. The police chased him down through a drainage ditch and caught him after an exhausting chase, both parties covered in mud. On arrest, Natthawut feigned unconsciousness and initially refused to cooperate. After identifying the vehicle used for the crimes he admitted to the thefts in Ratchaburi, Samut Prakarn, and Samut Songkhram. He then confessed to the fuel thefts on June 6 in Ban Phaeo, on June 9 in Bang Thorat and Pak Tho, again on June 13 and 14 in Pak Tho, and on June 16 in Yisarn. Using his modified truck, Natthawut made a speedy escape each time. Natthawut has been charged with theft by deception, using a vehicle to commit a crime, and for causing bodily harm. He will face additional charges in each of the places he has confessed to stealing from. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Political uncertainties pose a threat to foreign investment in Thailand File photo for reference only The Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) Economic Intelligence Center (EIC) has warned that escalating political uncertainties may deter foreign investments in Thailand's financial, capital, and long-term direct investment markets. EIC's chief economist, Somprawin Manprasert, highlighted that political instability could seriously undermine foreign investor confidence, potentially triggering significant capital outflows from foreign investors in Thailand's stock market. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330176-political-uncertainties-pose-a-threat-to-foreign-investment-in-thailand/

The Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) Economic Intelligence Center (EIC) has warned that escalating political uncertainties may deter foreign investments in Thailand's financial, capital, and long-term direct investment markets. EIC's chief economist, Somprawin Manprasert, highlighted that political instability could seriously undermine foreign investor confidence, potentially triggering significant capital outflows from foreign investors in Thailand's stock market. Somprawin further pointed out that these internal political issues could influence the nation's economic policies, increasing uncertainties and negatively impacting business confidence. Simultaneously, the EIC forecasted that Thailand's central bank would begin reducing its policy rate in the final quarter of this year, decreasing it to 2.25% from its current 2.5%. A further reduction to 2% is expected early next year, backed by incoming economic stimulus measures. In revising the Thai GDP growth outlook, EIC adjusted its 2024 growth prediction to 2.5% from the prior 3%. This growth is largely attributed to the service sector and an expected upturn in foreign tourist visitation. The GDP growth for next year is projected at 2.7%. Meanwhile, the EIC made several revisions to this year's economic indicator forecasts. Government consumption growth is projected to fall to 1.4% from the earlier 3.3%. Private and public investment growth are predicted to decline to 3.6% and -0.5%, respectively, while export growth is expected to decrease to 2.6%. Lastly, Somprawin noted the structural challenges facing Thailand's economic growth. He cited constrained merchandise export growth due to a sluggish recovery of Thai exports and global trade volumes. Nevertheless, moderate GDP growth is anticipated in the second half of the year, despite pressure on private consumption resulting from increased household sector vulnerability. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand's minor cities are becoming popular travel destinations File photo for reference only Tourists in Thailand are increasingly exploring lesser-known cities, particularly during the rainy season. The online travel platform, Agoda, found a significant increase in hotel searches for these often-neglected locations. This suggests a rising trend among both local and overseas tourists, who are keen to experience the many distinct areas of Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330174-thailands-minor-cities-are-becoming-popular-travel-destinations/

Tourists in Thailand are increasingly exploring lesser-known cities, particularly during the rainy season. The online travel platform, Agoda, found a significant increase in hotel searches for these often-neglected locations. This suggests a rising trend among both local and overseas tourists, who are keen to experience the many distinct areas of Thailand. The most popular lesser-known city is Chanthaburi, followed by Nakhon Si Thammarat. However, it is Nakhon Nayok, in third place, that has witnessed the most notable growth in interest with twice as many searches. Other in-demand destinations include Ratchaburi and Chiang Rai. In general, these off-the-beaten-path cities have seen a 23% increase in searches compared to the previous year, emphasizing their growing charm. Pierre Honne, the Thailand Country Director at Agoda, explained that the interest in less-visited Thai cities is a reflection of travellers wanting to dig deeper into Thailand’s diverse offerings. “Teaming up with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to spotlight these destinations is clearly working well, as shown by their growing attraction,” said Honne. “Agoda is thrilled to contribute to TAT’s initiative to show off the cultural, historical, and scenic highlights of Thailand’s lesser-known cities.” This trend has not gone unnoticed by overseas travellers. The most popular cities for overseas visitors are Chiang Rai, Udon Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Chanthaburi, and Trang. This growing interest from international travellers underscores Thailand’s cultural and geographical richness and demonstrates that tourists worldwide are seeking unique and genuine experiences. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Caught in crossfire: Thai man nabbed for peddling homemade guns Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police arrested 22 year old Thai man for selling homemade firearms on social media. The operation aimed to curb crimes involving illegal weapons, a rising concern given recent violent incidents. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330173-caught-in-crossfire-thai-man-nabbed-for-peddling-homemade-guns/

Police arrested 22 year old Thai man for selling homemade firearms on social media. The operation aimed to curb crimes involving illegal weapons, a rising concern given recent violent incidents. Police launched this sting operation under the directive of Police General Kitirat Phanphet, acting Commissioner-General, and Police General Thana Chuwong, Deputy Commissioner-General. The plan was executed to address the escalating issue of crimes involving firearms and ammunition, as seen in recent cases like a gang clash that resulted in one fatality and one injury. These weapons were often sourced from online platforms. Today, the operation was led by Metropolitan Police Commissioner Thiti Saengsawang, along with Deputy Commissioner Nopasin Poolsawat, Police Colonel Kiattisak Sratong-oi, and other senior officers. They instructed a team headed by Police Lieutenant Colonel Nitikorn Rawang to apprehend Anuwat for unauthorized firearm sales, possession, and carrying firearms in public without valid reasons. The suspect, Anuwat, also known as James Talingchan, was caught with a modified .380 calibre handgun and a magazine. The investigation began when undercover officers monitored social media for illegal firearm sales. They discovered that Anuwat was using a Facebook account to offer a homemade, modified handgun for 10,000 baht (US$270). A source informed Sub-Lieutenant Somporn that Anuwat was selling the weapon and arranged a meeting at the parking lot of Wat Puranawas Temple in Sala Thammasop, Thawi Watthana. The undercover team, after verifying the information, set up a sting operation. They checked the informant for any illegal items and provided the money for the decoy purchase. Police officers accompanied the informant to the meeting point. Undercover officer Upon arrival, Anuwat approached the vehicle driven by an undercover officer. After confirming the weapon was as advertised, the officers handed Anuwat 6,500 baht (US$180), promising to transfer the remaining 3,500 baht (US$95) later. Anuwat accepted the cash, and the officers signalled for the arrest team to move in. Anuwat was immediately arrested and charged with unauthorised firearm sale, possession, and carrying firearms in public without valid reasons. He was taken to Thammasala Police Station for further investigation, reported KhaoSod. Anuwat admitted to offering the firearm for sale at 10,000 baht (US$270). Police Colonel Teeradej emphasised the legal repercussions for both buyers and sellers of illegal firearms online. Buyers face imprisonment from one to ten years and fines ranging from 2,000 to 20,000 baht (US$55 to US$545), while sellers face harsher penalties, including two to twenty years in prison and fines from 4,000 to 40,000 baht (US$109 to US$1,090). By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Monkey mayhem: Lopburi runaways turns cop shop into a jungle Following last week’s move to intensify the capture of monkeys in Lopburi, a troop of monkeys escaped from their enclosure, causing chaos in a local police station and residential areas, prompting authorities to take immediate action. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330172-monkey-mayhem-lopburi-runaways-turns-cop-shop-into-a-jungle/