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Thai couple accuses monk of manipulating them into group sex Photo via PPTV HD A Thai couple are seeking justice from non-profit organisation Saimai Survive after a monk in the northern province of Phetchabun allegedly manipulated them into having group sex, leaving them deeply traumatised. The incident has caused such severe distress that both are now receiving treatment in a hospital for mental health issues. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329523-thai-couple-accuses-monk-of-manipulating-them-into-group-sex/

A Thai couple are seeking justice from non-profit organisation Saimai Survive after a monk in the northern province of Phetchabun allegedly manipulated them into having group sex, leaving them deeply traumatised. The incident has caused such severe distress that both are now receiving treatment in a hospital for mental health issues. The couple revealed their story to Saimai Survive and Thai news outlets at a press conference today, June 11. The woman, whose identity remains undisclosed, explained that she and her husband had been practising Dhamma at a monastery in Phetchabun for more than 10 years. According to the couple, the monk, who is about 40 years old, provided Dhamma teachings, exorcised evil spirits from them and their families, and improved their lives. They genuinely believed in his power and respected him. The couple admitted that some of the monk’s teachings were explicit and related to sex. He also shared explicit pictures, a talisman resembling genitals, and sexual content in a Line app group, but they continued to respect him, believing this was simply his teaching style. In 2021, the monk invited them to the highest level of Dhamma practice by offering their bodies to the monk. The monk claimed that they had to have sex with him to offer energy to his life, reach the highest level of Dhamma and become free from all suffering. The monk added that he was sick and would soon die if he did not have enough energy to live. As the monk improved their lives in many ways, the couple wanted to express their gratitude to the monk and agreed to the monk’s condition. The monk first had sex with the two of them separately. He then ordered them to have group sex with him and several other followers. Blackmail fears The monk closed their eyes during the sex and also asked his followers to record the sex, saying he would show the videos and pictures to a Vajrayana deity as a way of showing respect to the deity. The couple followed the monk’s practices until 2022. They began to feel that what was happening was wrong and not in accordance with the Buddhist religion they had learned. They stopped the practice and broke off contact with the monk. They decided to seek mental health treatment for their confusion before seeking justice through Saimai Survive. They wanted their case to be an example to others. The man said he was also worried that the monk and his followers would blackmail him and his wife by sharing their explicit pictures and videos, so he came forward to seek help. The founder of Saimai Survive, Ekkaphop Lueangprasert, said he would report the matter to the Phetchabun Provincial Buddhism Office and relevant authorities to investigate the case further and raid the monastery. Vajrayana Buddhism involves symbolic and actual sexual practices aimed at spiritual transformation and enlightenment under strict guidance. A writer for the Kom Chad Luek news agency, Traithep Krai-ngu, wrote an article on Vajrayana Buddhism in 2012 and mentioned the Yab-Yum, a statue of Buddha making a sexual gesture with a naked woman sitting on his lap. This is one of the statues known as part of Vajrayana Buddhism. By Petch Petpailin Photo via PPTV HD Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

RTA continues investigation into general in police station altercation Royal Thai Army Lieutenant General Chula Charoenwatnakul was arrested after alleged aggressive behaviour towards woman in Din Daeng Metropolitan Police Station. The Royal Thai Army (RTA) is investigating an incident involving a high-ranking officer allegedly behaving aggressively towards a woman and officials at a police station. The incident came to light yesterday when a video clip surfaced on social media showing the confrontation at the Din Daeng Metropolitan Police Station. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329454-military-officer’s-“rank”-behaviour-caught-on-video-sparks-probe/?do=findComment&comment=18983884

RTA continues investigation into general in police station altercation The Royal Thai Army (RTA) is investigating an incident involving a high-ranking officer allegedly behaving aggressively towards a woman and officials at a police station. The incident came to light yesterday when a video clip surfaced on social media showing the confrontation at the Din Daeng Metropolitan Police Station. Colonel Ritcha Suksuwan, RTA deputy spokesperson, confirmed that the individual in the video is Lieutenant General Chula Charoenwatnakul. Currently, Chula is serving on special duty at Phramongkutklao Hospital under the Ministry of Defence. Despite the incident being a personal matter, the RTA is not taking it lightly and is committed to investigating the facts according to military disciplinary regulations. The video clip, which quickly gained traction online, shows Chula in a dispute with the woman recording, and the altercation took place at the Din Daeng Metropolitan Police Station. The video quickly went viral, prompting public outcry and demands for accountability, said Colonel Ritcha. “The Royal Thai Army has verified the information and found that the individual involved is indeed a personnel member under the Ministry of Defence. “We have initiated an investigation to establish the facts and are willing to assist the affected parties and the police in their legal proceedings.” The RTA assured that the investigation would be transparent and they would cooperate with the police. This includes facilitating the police in their inquiry and offering support to the woman involved in the incident. Chula’s actions have sparked discussion online with many calling for strict disciplinary measures. The RTA has emphasised it will adhere to its internal regulations and ensure justice is served. The incident raised questions about the conduct of military personnel and the importance of maintaining discipline and accountability, Colonel Ritcha added. “We are committed to upholding the highest standards of conduct among our personnel. “The Army will not tolerate any behaviour that tarnishes its reputation or undermines public trust.” The investigation is ongoing and the RTA pledged to inform the public of any developments. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining professional conduct, particularly for those in positions of authority. The RTA’s handling of this case will be closely observed as a measure of its commitment to justice and integrity. By Nattapong Westwood Royal Thai Army Lieutenant General Chula Charoenwatnakul was arrested after alleged aggressive behaviour towards woman in Din Daeng Metropolitan Police Station. Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourism industry demands action amid 300-baht fee controversy Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand’s private sector is urging the government to address the supply side of tourism after Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced the suspension of a proposed 300-baht fee for foreign tourists. This fee was intended to establish a tourism development fund. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329521-tourism-industry-demands-action-amid-300-baht-fee-controversy/

Thailand’s private sector is urging the government to address the supply side of tourism after Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced the suspension of a proposed 300-baht fee for foreign tourists. This fee was intended to establish a tourism development fund. Chamnan Srisawat, President of the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) stated that The government’s performance over the past eight months would be rated 10 out of 10 for stimulating tourism demand, mainly attributed to visa policies. “But for more critical problems related to Thai tourism, such as inferior supply development, we’re not able to give them any score as nothing has been done to help resolve the problem.” At the opening of the northern tourism cluster in Chiang Mai, the 62 year old Thai PM said there is currently no plan to implement the tourism fee. Instead, the government aims to attract more tourists and encourage higher spending, believing the benefits from increased spending would surpass those from the fee. Without the tourism tax, there is no dedicated financial resource for tourism development. PM Srettha said the government would allocate a budget to the Tourism and Sports Ministry for project proposals to boost tourism income. However, Chamnan expressed concerns about improving the overall tourist experience and spending without proper plans. “It’s regrettable to hear that the tourism fund won’t be set up due to the postponement of the fee collection. We don’t have any concerns with regard to volume, but poor tourism experiences and a lack of attractiveness are the key points.” Chamnan stressed that without a development fund, Thailand would struggle to enhance its tourism infrastructure or create new attractions, unlike countries such as China and Vietnam, which continually develop new tourism sites. He mentioned that revenue from tourism in the first five months of the year had only reached 830 billion baht, far short of the government’s 3.5 trillion baht target for the end of 2024. Chamnan proposed initiating five major man-made projects across five regions to generate tourism revenue, especially in second-tier provinces. He suggested that tour operators could integrate these new destinations into their packages, attracting more tourists in the future. Federation of Thai Tourism Associations The Federation of Thai Tourism Associations (FETTA) also called for urgent tourism development in a forthcoming white paper. Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, president of the Association of Thai Travel Agents, highlighted the need for a balanced policy that prioritises supply development and demand stimulation. FETTA urged the government to establish new key performance indicators (KPIs) focusing on supply improvement, including safety standards and environmental impacts. Sisdivachr also recommended a tourism carrier capacity blueprint to guide development. Sisdivachr concluded that once the tourism fee is collected, 100 baht per tourist should be dedicated to sustainable tourism development and crisis management, addressing Thailand’s low score on the Travel & Tourism Development Index compared to other Southeast Asian countries, reported Bangkok Post. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Police accused of shooting innocent Thai man and wife - video Photo via Channel 7 Two police officers in the central province of Kanchanaburi allegedly shot an innocent Thai man in the leg after he tried to break up an argument between the officers and a group of teenagers. The man’s wife and another woman were also injured in the incident. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329519-police-accused-of-shooting-innocent-thai-man-and-wife-video/

Two police officers in the central province of Kanchanaburi allegedly shot an innocent Thai man in the leg after he tried to break up an argument between the officers and a group of teenagers. The man’s wife and another woman were also injured in the incident. The victim, 35 year old Uthai Pathumsut, sought justice after he and his 32 year old wife, Jiraporn Kaewsi-ngam, were assaulted by the Nongprue Police Station officers. Another woman, 31 year old Sunisa Promkhun, was also attacked when she tried to intervene. Uthai recounted the incident on the day in an interview with Channel 7 that he, his wife, and Sunisa were selling food at a public park. Two police officers arrived and checked on the motorcycle of a teenager who was hanging out with friends. The officers fined the teenager 300 baht for an illegal modified exhaust pipe but the teenager did not have enough money to pay the fine. The officers insisted he pay, leading to an argument between the police and the group. Uthai and his wife intervened, asking the police to calm down. Uthai suggested the officers issue a fine ticket and let the teenager pay later at the police station. Unexpectedly, one of the officers became angry and pushed Uthai in the chest. Uthai fought back, and the officer hit him in the head with a baton. Jiraporn tried to protect her husband and was hit in the arm. The officer then fired multiple shots into the ground, shocking everyone at the park. Bullet fragments hit Uthai and his wife in their legs. The two officers continued to hit Uthai with the baton before leaving the scene. Sunisa told Channel 7 that she tried to stop the assault but one of the officers punched her in the eye. She had to flee with her three year old child when the shooting started. The superintendent of the police station denied the accusations and defended his officers. He said the vendors interfered with a police operation, which led to the altercation. However, the superintendent admitted that the officers should not have fired their guns and that it was considered excessive force. He promised to investigate the case further and ensure justice for both parties. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fire engulfs Phetchaburi warehouse, 15 fire trucks deployed Image courtesy of Khaosod A massive fire engulfed a plastic and chemical storage warehouse in Phetchaburi, prompting authorities to deploy 15 fire trucks in an attempt to control the blaze, the cause is believed to have been an electrical short circuit. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329518-fire-engulfs-phetchaburi-warehouse-15-fire-trucks-deployed/

A massive fire engulfed a plastic and chemical storage warehouse in Phetchaburi, prompting authorities to deploy 15 fire trucks in an attempt to control the blaze, the cause is believed to have been an electrical short circuit. Head of Khao Yoi Police Station in Phetchaburi, Police Colonel Thip Khengkhoom, led the response to the fire at Universal Flexible Packaging Co., Ltd. warehouse in Nong Chumphon Subdistrict. The fire, which broke out yesterday, spread rapidly and fiercely, leading to immediate coordination with nearby emergency units for support. Upon arrival, responders found the warehouse engulfed in intense flames with thick black smoke visible from afar. The warehouse stored plastic pellets, chemicals, and plastic packaging materials such as plastic bags, which fuelled the fire significantly. Firefighters and rescue teams deployed over 15 fire trucks, including chemical fire trucks, to tackle the blaze. Despite wrestling the fire for over an hour, the blaze remained out of control. Additional chemical fire trucks from nearby areas were called in to assist. Initial investigations suggest the fire was likely caused by an electrical short circuit. Fortunately, no employees were inside the warehouse at the time of the incident. Local village headman, Anan Chantharachot revealed that there was a small amount of smoke at first, but the factory did not allow emergency personnel to intervene. This negligent delay allowed the fire to spread rapidly, exacerbated by the warehouse’s contents, which acted as excellent fuel, reported KhaoSod. As efforts to control the fire continued, authorities remained focused on preventing further damage and ensuring the safety of surrounding areas. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential hazards associated with storing flammable materials and the necessity of immediate response to any signs of danger. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Khaosod Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Jealousy incites teen to stab Pattaya convenience store worker Convenience store employee Kritsana receiving medical attention after being stabbed in the should by 16 year old A 16 year old boy stabbed a Pattaya convenience store employee with a knife after suspecting he was secretly talking to his girlfriend. Police were alerted to the stabbing yesterday at 12.36am. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329517-jealousy-incites-teen-to-stab-pattaya-convenience-store-worker/

A 16 year old boy stabbed a Pattaya convenience store employee with a knife after suspecting he was secretly talking to his girlfriend. Police were alerted to the stabbing yesterday at 12.36am. Chonlawit Athisansee, a Deputy Inspector at Pattaya City Police Station, received a report of the stabbing at a convenience store in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri Province. Emergency services from Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Centre were dispatched to the scene. The victim, 19 year old convenience store employee Kritsana sustained a shoulder injury, and first aid was administered at the scene while the assailant fled. Kritsana explained that while he was working at the counter, the attacker leapt over and stabbed him in the shoulder before fleeing the scene. The Thai police were promptly notified and began their investigation. Police officers later apprehended the perpetrator, A, who confessed to the Pattaya stabbing and cited jealousy as the motive. A believed the victim had been secretly communicating with his girlfriend, which enraged him and led to the attack. “I was overcome with jealousy and believed that Kritsana was secretly talking to my girlfriend. In a fit of rage, I decided to confront him at his workplace and stabbed him.” Chonlawit, handling the case, has detained the suspect for further questioning and will proceed with legal charges. The Pattaya stabbing underscores the severe consequences of unchecked emotions and the importance of addressing jealousy and anger healthily. The police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to prevent such violent events occurring in the future. Members of the local community are expressing their disbelief and urging for stronger measures to ensure safety and security in public places. As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to provide updates on the legal proceedings and additional measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future, reported Khaosod. By Nattapong Westwood Convenience store employee Kritsana receiving medical attention after being stabbed in the should by 16 year old Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Storm havoc: Jomtien Beach eroded and unsafe Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Jomtien Beach was battered by fierce winds and waves yesterday, causing devastating erosion across a 1,000-metre stretch opposite the Pu Pen Restaurant. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329515-storm-havoc-jomtien-beach-eroded-and-unsafe/

Jomtien Beach was battered by fierce winds and waves yesterday, causing devastating erosion across a 1,000-metre stretch opposite the Pu Pen Restaurant. Ekkarach Kantharo, Director of the Pattaya Regional Marine Department Office, confirmed the damage was a result of monsoon conditions that have unleashed storms and towering waves on the Gulf of Thailand. The reinforced sand on Jomtien Beach, extending 2.8 kilometres, was no match for the powerful waves. A 1,000-metre section had its sand swept into the sea, while a 400-metre portion was gouged into a steep 1.5-metre slope. This precarious incline presents a serious hazard to the public and tourists, particularly after dark. Consequently, the area has been temporarily cordoned off. To tackle the danger, urgent safety measures are in progress. The Pattaya Marine Department and Na Jomtien Municipality are deploying heavy machinery to level the treacherous slopes. Efforts are underway to reclaim the sand from the sea and redistribute it, a process expected to take two to three days. Warning signs are being erected to alert the public and visitors about the erosion, advising them to stay clear of the area for now. Rapeephan Rattanaliem, Mayor of Na Jomtien sub-district, reassured that the municipality is swiftly addressing the disruptions caused by the erosion. Over the past two days, public health officials have been clearing sand from roads, and water trucks have been dispatched to wash the streets. In collaboration with the Pattaya Marine Department, plans are in place to plant trees along the beach to prevent future sand encroachments. Heavy machinery will persist in levelling the sand to form a safer gradient. Public announcements will be made to inform residents and tourists to avoid the area temporarily, even for photography and other activities, reported Pattaya Mail. By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

A deadly accident on Sukhumvit Road resulting from reckless U-turn File photo for reference only A 13-year-old boy lost his life in a tragic accident early today caused by a reckless U-turn from a pickup truck on Sukhumvit Road near Aum Rak Animal Hospital in Samet, Mueang District, Chon Buri. Police and emergency services were called to the scene around 7:30 a.m., where they discovered the severely injured body of Thanakorn, a middle school student. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329514-a-deadly-accident-on-sukhumvit-road-resulting-from-reckless-u-turn/

A 13-year-old boy lost his life in a tragic accident early today caused by a reckless U-turn from a pickup truck on Sukhumvit Road near Aum Rak Animal Hospital in Samet, Mueang District, Chon Buri. Police and emergency services were called to the scene around 7:30 a.m., where they discovered the severely injured body of Thanakorn, a middle school student. The boy suffered multiple injuries, including a broken neck, ribs, arms and legs, with tire marks suggesting he'd been run over. Close to the scene, a damaged black Isuzu D-Max pickup truck with Bangkok plates was found. A white Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck, also having Bangkok plates, was found similarly damaged. The boy’s Yamaha motorcycle, registered in Prachinburi, lay in the middle of the road, smashed into a pile of metal. Eyewitnesses stated that the black Isuzu D-Max was driving from Sukhumvit Road towards Ang Sila, with the boy travelling the same route on his motorcycle. As the truck made an illegal U-turn, it hit the motorcycle, throwing the boy into the opposite lane where the white Mitsubishi Triton struck him. Local residents pointed out that the site of the accident is not a regulated U-turn spot and has resulted in numerous accidents before. They are urging drivers to respect traffic rules and only make U-turns at marked points to avoid accidents. The precise cause of the crash is yet to be determined by the police. They will question both pickup truck drivers and review CCTV footage as part of the ongoing investigation. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chiang Mai Asks for Public Opinion on Mae Hod Reservoir Project File photo for reference only The Department of National Parks (DNP) in Chiang Mai is seeking public feedback on a proposed plan to build the Mae Hod Reservoir in certain parts of Ob Luang National Park. The proposal aims to increase water sources for local farmers and reduce the risk of drought. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329512-chiang-mai-asks-for-public-opinion-on-mae-hod-reservoir-project/

The Department of National Parks (DNP) in Chiang Mai is seeking public feedback on a proposed plan to build the Mae Hod Reservoir in certain parts of Ob Luang National Park. The proposal aims to increase water sources for local farmers and reduce the risk of drought. Ob Luang National Park located in Chiang Mai, has opened discussions to stakeholders and locals. This is about the proposal to use some parts of the park for the construction of the Mae Hod Reservoir. Approved by royal decree, this project is meant to boost water supply for farming. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment emphasizes the importance of community feedback during the decision-making process. This feedback will play a role in forming the royal decree that would permit the use of parts of Ob Luang National Park. This is in line with Section 8, Paragraph 3 of the National Park Act of 2019. The Mae Hod Reservoir project is a royal endeavour to tackle the ongoing problem of water shortage for local farmers. The reservoir would store water to sustain farming activities, particularly during drought, ensuring a steady water supply. It is not only seen as a booster for farming output but also a means to better the living standards and quality of life for the local residents in and near the project area. One representative from the DNP stressed the importance of the Mae Hod Reservoir project as a key solution to solidifying a constant water resource for farming and household use. He stated, “This project will bring great benefit to the local farmers who have faced water shortages for a long time." The initiative is part of a wider plan to combat issues arising from water shortage, especially during dry spells. The Mae Hod Reservoir will help provide a regular water source, which would thereby enhance farming productivity and improve the economic conditions of the locals. An official from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment emphasized the value of the community's feedback. He said, “It’s important that this project is in line with what the community, who will be directly affected, needs and wants." File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Experience the Thrill of the Durian Festival in Nakhon Ratchasima File photo for reference only The city of Nakhon Ratchasima has officially launched its durian festival, showcasing 38 different types of Wang Nam Khiao durians. Dessert shops are set to open to visitors starting tomorrow, with the main event commencing on July 5. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329511-experience-the-thrill-of-the-durian-festival-in-nakhon-ratchasima/

The city of Nakhon Ratchasima has officially launched its durian festival, showcasing 38 different types of Wang Nam Khiao durians. Dessert shops are set to open to visitors starting tomorrow, with the main event commencing on July 5. Located in Ban Khlong Sai, the Ploenchit Durian Orchard is home to more than 40 various kinds of durians. The owner, Satit Tritarak, states that the orchard, spanning 12 rai and containing 360 trees, produces popular durian varieties such as Monthong, Chanee, Puangmanee, Musang King, and Kob Suwan. The spot also cultivates rare breeds like Thong Tam Tua, Nuan Thong Chan, and Sai Nam Phueng. Apart from these, the Ploenchit Durian Orchard also boasts a range of durian families, like the long-stemmed varieties of Kan Yao Si Nak and Kob Mae Thao from the Kob family. The health of these durians is maintained by following soil enrichment techniques from YouTube experts. A mix of fermented animal manure and gypsum is used to nourish the soil, and additional nutrients are given twice a year. This year's yield is predicted to start in late June and conclude in late August. The orchard is dedicated to harvesting only mature durians, guaranteeing no issues with unripe fruit for the consumers. The main focus this year will be selling durians on the spot during the durian festival instead of online. Ploenchit Durian Orchard has recently opened a new shop selling durians and sweets. Here, visitors can taste different durian strains and enjoy carefully prepared desserts made from the finest ingredients. The dessert shops are set to have a soft launch tomorrow while the grand opening is scheduled for July 5. Durian lovers, sweet-toothed individuals, and tourists visiting the local Khao Phang Ma wildlife observation spot are all encouraged to stop by the orchard. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Former Principal Accused by Buriram Villagers of Land Seizure File photo for reference only Inhabitants of Nong Mai Ngam, a village in the Lahan Sai District of Buriram Province, have accused a former school principal of seizing their agricultural property over unpaid loans. These villagers lodged their complaint, accompanied with evidence, with the Buriram Provincial Land Reform Office. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329510-former-principal-accused-by-buriram-villagers-of-land-seizure/

Inhabitants of Nong Mai Ngam, a village in the Lahan Sai District of Buriram Province, have accused a former school principal of seizing their agricultural property over unpaid loans. These villagers lodged their complaint, accompanied with evidence, with the Buriram Provincial Land Reform Office. These individuals had borrowed money from the ex-principal, offering their Sor Por Kor land as collateral, but were unable to return the loans on time. As a result, land from 3 to 60 rai per person was seized by the principal. Even after attempts to repay the loans with interest, the principal demanded high sums in excess of the initial loans. For example, a villager who had borrowed 45,000 baht was asked for 400,000 baht for the return of the land, leaving him financially incapable of following through. Affected by the loss of their land, some villagers have fallen sick and, scared of the implications, have sought help from the Land Reform Office. One villager, Chalerm, a 67 year old resident of Ban Sai Tree 16 was also impacted. Chalerm borrowed a total of 45,000 baht from the principal from 2006 onwards, putting his 3 rai land as a guarantee. He tried to return 150,000 baht including interest but was asked for 400,000 baht instead. Unable to comply, he turned to the Land Reform Office for help. Meanwhile, the ex-principal has started pressurizing the affected villagers to sign lease agreements, using relatives to intimidate them when they refused, creating a fearful atmosphere in the village. Prasert Kanchanakiatkul, the Buriram Provincial Land Reform Officer, announced that the Land Reform Office will have its lawyers look into these allegations. If they are found to be true, legal action will be carried out against the ex-principal. He pledged to thoroughly study the matter and make sure justice is served in accordance with the law. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Kidnapping plot worth 1 million baht halted by Police in Nakhon Ratchasima File photo for reference only Highway police in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, have arrested three individuals connected with the kidnapping of a young man from Surin. The alleged kidnappers supposedly intended to extort 1 million baht. The suspects posed as politicians and threatened the victim’s girlfriend to pressure her into transferring the money. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329509-kidnapping-plot-worth-1-million-baht-halted-by-police-in-nakhon-ratchasima/

Highway police in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, have arrested three individuals connected with the kidnapping of a young man from Surin. The alleged kidnappers supposedly intended to extort 1 million baht. The suspects posed as investigator and threatened the victim’s girlfriend to pressure her into transferring the money. The police received a tip-off that three men, pretending to be investigative officers, had abducted a person named Trakarn. The criminals then forced Trakarn into a black pickup truck and drove towards Nakhon Ratchasima. Police leadership instructed their teams to follow the getaway vehicle. When the truck arrived at Mittraphap Road, Highway 2, heading towards Bangkok, the police noticed the black Isuzu D-Max pickup truck. Even though the police tried to stop the truck to interrogate the driver, he sped off, leading to a chase. After a while, the police were successful in halting the truck. They discovered Trakarn Phonsalee, aged 23, who had been kidnapped from Surin. The suspects consisted of 26-year-old Bannasit, claiming to be a commissioner investigating illicit activities; 26-year-old Kritchai, the driver; and a 16-year-old boy. Trakarn reported that just after 11PM, three men approached him. They claimed to be politicians investigating powerful persons in Surin. They accused Trakarn of selling kratom leaves and demanded 1 million baht to avoid legal action. Trakarn informed them he only had 500,000 baht and suggested they retrieve the cash from his girlfriend. The kidnappers dismissed this and forcefully dragged him into their truck, planning to take him to Bangkok. The abductors used Trakarn’s cell phone to send intimidating messages to his girlfriend. They warned that Trakarn would be harmed if she didn't transfer the money. She was also given a bank account number for the transaction. After receiving the warnings, she quickly informed authorities, and the highway police swiftly intervened. The alleged kidnappers are now in custody and are undergoing further investigation. Initial findings indicate that this group may have executed similar incidents against others. The authorities plan to expand their investigation to uncover more information. File photo for reference only -- 2024-06-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Former bank loan officer nabbed for fraud and forgery File photo for reference only The Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) and the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) have arrested a former senior bank loan officer. He was detained on charges of document falsification and misappropriation of funds that caused a loss of over one million baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329506-former-bank-loan-officer-nabbed-for-fraud-and-forgery/