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Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) concluded investigations into two cases involving the corrupt former Director-General of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), resulting in significant asset seizures totalling over 44 million baht (US$10 million). In the initial case, the court ordered the forfeiture of the former DSI’s Director-General Tharit Pengdit’s assets worth 341.80 million baht to the state. A subsequent ruling on March 19, a continuation of the initial court ruling, saw an additional 44.63 million baht in assets seized, bringing the combined total to more than 386 million baht (US$10 million). NACC Secretary-General Niwatchai Kasemmongkol, speaking on behalf of the NACC, addressed Tharit’s case to the media through a press conference regarding the judgment by the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct, Section 3. The court found Tharit guilty of amassing unusual wealth during his tenure as DSI Director-General and ordered the seizure of his assets totalling 44 million baht. The investigation revealed a notable increase in Tharit’s assets and a significant decrease in debt, with properties registered under various names, including Tharit Pengdit, Watsamon Pengdit, Piyarerk Atthakarnrat, Sanchai Srithongkul, and Piyathanawat Company Limited. Asset forfeiture Following the NACC’s inquiry, the Civil Court referred the case to the Attorney General on September 27, 2018, leading to the assets being forfeited to the state. Further investigations into other potentially illicit assets registered under different names prompted the NACC to initiate a second case. This case focuses on assets unrelated to those in the first case, which were already subject to court rulings. In the second case, the NACC determined that Tharit had accumulated assets totalling 53 million baht through abnormal means during his tenure. The commission compiled evidence and expert opinions, submitting a comprehensive report to the Attorney General to pursue legal proceedings before the Criminal Court for corruption and misconduct. The recent ruling by the Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct, Region 3, involved the transfer of unusually wealthy assets amounting to 44 million baht, along with accrued interest, to the state. The court mandated Tharit to provide documentation related to the assets and effect their transfer to the government through the Ministry of Finance. Failure to comply will lead to the court enforcing necessary measures. If Tharit is unable to transfer the assets, he is required to compensate the government with an equivalent value or alternative assets until the obligation is fulfilled. Any fees paid by Tharit during litigation cannot be refunded under these circumstances, emphasising the seriousness of the court’s directives, reported The Nation. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of ThaiPBS World Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourism campaign in the works to promote second-tier provinces Image courtesy of TAT In a bid to amplify tourism revenue from lesser-known provinces and cities, The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) unveiled a five-point campaign aimed at promoting 55 second-tier regions. The initiative marks a collaborative effort involving nine ministries, the Royal Thai Police, and two additional agencies. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327728-tourism-campaign-in-the-works-to-promote-second-tier-provinces/

In a bid to amplify tourism revenue from lesser-known provinces and cities, The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) unveiled a five-point campaign aimed at promoting 55 second-tier regions. The initiative marks a collaborative effort involving nine ministries, the Royal Thai Police, and two additional agencies. Deputy Governor of the TAT, Somruedee Jitjong, emphasised the necessity of diversifying tourism revenue streams by targeting these often overlooked areas. Currently, these provinces contribute a mere 20% to the nation’s overall tourism revenue. However, with concerted efforts, the TAT aims to elevate this figure to 30%, translating to an estimated annual revenue of 330 billion baht. Under the banner of Ignite Tourism Thailand, the tourism initiative encompasses a multifaceted approach aimed at rejuvenating the visitor experience across the nation’s second-tier provinces. One key factor involves enhancing infrastructure, with a specific focus on upgrading the standard of restaurants and basic amenities. By investing in these fundamental aspects, Thailand aims to elevate the overall quality of tourist facilities. Moreover, the campaign emphasises the importance of destination development as a means of enhancing the appeal of tourist sites and their surrounding landscapes. Catering to travellers In line with evolving tourist preferences and demands, the initiative also prioritises catering to the diverse needs of travellers. This entails developing goods and services tailored to meet the expectations of tourists, ranging from accommodations to recreational activities. Central to the campaign’s objectives is the promotion of cultural richness and diversity. Thailand seeks to leverage its rich traditions to create compelling tourism routes and destinations. Finally, the initiative underscores the importance of improved connectivity to facilitate seamless travel across all provinces and destinations. By enhancing public transport links, Thailand aims to streamline travelling within the nation, making it easier for tourists to explore the diverse attractions scattered, and hidden throughout the country. Representatives from the ministries of defence, tourism and sports, transport, natural resources and environment, commerce, interior, culture, public health, and industry have gathered in a brainstorming session, to actively participate in crafting strategies to propel this initiative forward. Somruedee disclosed that the proposals formulated during the session will be presented to the National Tourism Policy Committee for review and approval. Subsequently, the allocation of budgetary resources for the upcoming fiscal year will be pursued to kickstart the implementation phase of this ambitious endeavour, reported The Nation. The comprehensive approach adopted by Thailand reflects a concerted effort to promote sustainable tourism development while showcasing the diverse cultural and natural heritage of the nation’s second-tier provinces. Through collaborative efforts and strategic planning, Thailand aims to unlock the full potential of these hidden tourism gems, offering travellers a richer and more immersive experience beyond traditional tourist hotspots. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of TAT Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Test Results Indicate 10-Year-Old Rice is Safe to Eat File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google The Department of Medical Sciences has confirmed that the 10-year-old rice from government stocks is safe to eat. The declaration came following tests on the rice samples supplied by the Ministry of Commerce. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327727-test-results-indicate-10-year-old-rice-is-safe-to-eat/

The Department of Medical Sciences has confirmed that the 10-year-old rice from government stocks is safe to eat. The declaration came following tests on the rice samples supplied by the Ministry of Commerce. The department's head, Dr. Yongyos Thammawut, revealed the information on the recent tests conducted on the rice samples. The examination aimed to spot any chemical residues, possible signs of fungal infection and to evaluate rice's nutritional quality. These tests were carried out in top 5 laboratories and ranked third best in Asia. The process included checks for visual and smell irregularities, besides probing for fungal toxins, residues from fumigation, and 250 kinds of agricultural chemicals. Examinations were also done to confirm the absence of heavy metals and analyze the nutritional value of the rice. The results showed no fungal toxins and the heavy metal levels were within safe standards. The nutritional content of the rice didn't vary greatly from the commercial rice sold in the market. Hence, the 10-year-old stock is described as safe for eating. The rice in focus is part of the government's reserve under the rice pledging program. The stock is stored at Poonphol Trading Co., Ltd., and Kittichai Warehouse in Surin Province. Public auctions for the rice may commence this month, with an average price expected to be 18 baht per kilogram. This announcement squashes the social media speculation about the safety of eating rice stored for up to 10 years due to repeated fumigation which turns the rice yellow. The test has verified that the rice is safe for consumption. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Younger Brother of Thanathorn Sentenced to Six Months in Prison for Bribery File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google Today, a corrupt property mogul has been sentenced to half a year in jail. Sakulthorn Juangroongruangkit, who is the CEO of Real Estate Development Company Ltd. and younger brother to Thanathorn, the leader of the Progressive Movement, was found guilty of bribery. The charges against Sakulthorn include a 20-million-baht bribe he paid to an official from the Crown Property Bureau and another man. The bribe's purpose was to get permission for his firm to rent a 1.02-hectare piece of land in Bangkok's Chidlom area without requiring an open bid process. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327726-younger-brother-of-thanathorn-sentenced-to-six-months-in-prison-for-bribery/

Today, a corrupt property mogul has been sentenced to half a year in jail. Sakulthorn Juangroongruangkit, who is the CEO of Real Estate Development Company Ltd. and younger brother to Thanathorn, the leader of the Progressive Movement, was found guilty of bribery. The charges against Sakulthorn include a 20-million-baht bribe he paid to an official from the Crown Property Bureau and another man. The bribe's purpose was to get permission for his firm to rent a 1.02-hectare piece of land in Bangkok's Chidlom area without requiring an open bid process. The two men he bribed, Crown Property Bureau official Prasit Apaipolcharn and middleman Surakit Tungwithoonwanit, were also convicted for their roles in accepting the bribe back in 2017. However, they were freed in 2020. At first, the court ordered Sakulthorn to serve an eight-month sentence. But it was later reduced to six months because of the testimony he offered during his trial. This prime piece of land previously housed the main office of the Telephone Organisation of Thailand, which is no longer operational. Reportedly, it is some of the most sought-after land in Bangkok. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bombings in Narathiwat interrupt Senate candidate applications File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google Two bomb blasts in Narathiwat province disrupted the start of the senatorial candidates' application process. In the Cho-airong district, an explosion near a communication tower interfered with the internet signal. This situation forced three individuals, who had arrived at the Cho-airong district office to register for candidacy, to be turned back until the internet connection is restored. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327725-bombings-in-narathiwat-interrupt-senate-candidate-applications/

Two bomb blasts in Narathiwat province disrupted the start of the senatorial candidates' application process. In the Cho-airong district, an explosion near a communication tower interfered with the internet signal. This situation forced three individuals, who had arrived at the Cho-airong district office to register for candidacy, to be turned back until the internet connection is restored. Two bomb blasts in Narathiwat province disrupted the start of the senatorial candidates' application process. In the Cho-airong district, an explosion near a communication tower interfered with the internet signal. This situation forced three individuals, who had arrived at the Cho-airong district office to register for candidacy, to be turned back until the internet connection is restored. The homemade bombs in Cho-airong and Sukhirin harmed eight security volunteers in total—five in Cho-airong and three in Sukhirin. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

DIY Rocket Launched into Air as Plane Flies Past File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google During a traditional rocket festival in Surin province on May 19, a homemade rocket was launched into the air just as a plane flew past. This incident underscores the need for more stringent safety measures at Thailand's rocket festivals. These events, which are popular in the northeastern part of the country in May and June, often involve numerous rocket launches. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327719-diy-rocket-launched-into-air-as-plane-flies-past/

During a traditional rocket festival in Surin province on May 19, a homemade rocket was launched into the air just as a plane flew past. This incident underscores the need for more stringent safety measures at Thailand's rocket festivals. These events, which are popular in the northeastern part of the country in May and June, often involve numerous rocket launches. Recently, the Department of Airports communicated the need for coordination in setting off rockets in aviation safety zones to avoid accidents. On May 19, photos showed a rocket shooting up into the sky near a passing airplane. There were also reports of betting at the event. Video footage from the "Bun Bang Fai" rocket festival showed the first rocket being launched in front of a large crowd at a temple in the Samrong Thap District of Surin Province. The launch was announced over loudspeakers for those tracking it for gambling purposes. Participants had bought ribbons for 100 baht to enter the event and engage in open betting before each rocket launch. Loudspeaker updates provided gamblers with the details each time a rocket was launched. Several planes flew over the event, adding to the risk. While a newly launched rocket soared towards a passing plane, it was announced that the aviation authorities were informed about the event's schedule and location, allowing the festival to continue uninterrupted. However, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Suriya Jungrungreangkit, has stressed the need for safety. He stated that the Ministry of Transport plans to ask the Ministry of Interior to work with local and provincial authorities in areas hosting Bun Bang Fai festivals. The goal is to enforce stricter controls on rocket launches, given the potential risks to aviation safety. This would require permits specifying the launch locations, timings, and sizes and broadly disseminating this information to nearby airports ahead of time. The Ministry emphasized the unpredictability of rockets and their potential risks to aircraft and public safety, as well as their potential to negatively affect Thailand's aviation and tourism reputation. According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), there were 155 instances of pilots spotting rockets and lanterns between 2021 and 2023. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai woman blames police drug search in vagina for miscarriage Photo via ThaiRath A Thai woman sued the narcotics suppression unit of Samut Prakarn Provincial Police, accusing officers of causing her miscarriage by searching for drugs in her vagina. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327718-thai-woman-blames-police-drug-search-in-vagina-for-miscarriage/

A Thai woman sued the narcotics suppression unit of Samut Prakarn Provincial Police, accusing officers of causing her miscarriage by searching for drugs in her vagina. The 30 year old woman, Orranee Ruangphueng, accompanied by her lawyer, filed a complaint against the Samut Prakarn Provincial Police’s narcotics suppression unit at Bang Bor Police Station on May 18. Orranee claimed she lost her two month old unborn baby after the drug search. Orranee recounted that 10 police officers raided her home in the Bang Bor district of Samut Prakarn province near Bangkok on the morning of May 16, searching for drugs and illegal objects. A policewoman then requested to search her vagina for hidden drugs. Orranee said she informed the police that she was pregnant but the officer insisted on probing her private parts. According to Orranee, the policewoman inserted a finger into her vagina, causing her to bleed. She then felt pain in her stomach and a blood clot later came out in the toilet. According to Orranee, she did not reveal her symptoms to the police at that time because she was focused on the house raid. Police searched her home for 20 minutes before taking her to the police station. Orranee did not disclose whether officers found drugs in her residence. She only mentioned that she was charged with illegally operating a kitty purse after police searched her phone and found evidence of an illegal operation. Orranee said she later contacted her friend to bail her out and went to a hospital for an examination of her pregnancy. She discovered that she suffered threatened abortion symptoms and later lost her child. ThaiRath reported that narcotics suppression unit officers raided Orranee’s house because of her close relationship with drug suspects. Her 22 year old boyfriend, Saengrawee Kuiwongtarn, was arrested on the day of the incident, and her ex-boyfriend had been previously arrested in the same case. The Superintendent of Bang Bor Police Station, Chairat Rungrueng, admitted that the policewoman searched Orranee’s private parts but officers are awaiting a further medical examination to confirm whether the procedure was indeed the cause of her miscarriage. By Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai industries launch initiatives to boost SMEs post-pandemic Image courtesy of CGIAR New initiatives by the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) aim to bolster local entrepreneurs, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) still grappling with the effects of the pandemic. The FTI is focusing on critical sectors such as agribusiness and the auto parts industry to foster resilience and growth. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327717-thai-industries-launch-initiatives-to-boost-smes-post-pandemic/

New initiatives by the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) aim to bolster local entrepreneurs, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) still grappling with the effects of the pandemic. The FTI is focusing on critical sectors such as agribusiness and the auto parts industry to foster resilience and growth. Efforts are being made to help SMEs become more competitive through the Three Go’s policy, which follows earlier strategies aimed at boosting sales. The policy emphasises digital transformation, innovation, and global market expansion. Chairman of the FTI Kriengkrai Thiennukul, highlighted the urgent need for closer cooperation between the federation and entrepreneurs to navigate the challenges posed by technological advancements and increased competition. “A new economy is being formed by technological advancement and tougher competition.” The digital aspect of the policy encourages SMEs to incorporate more computer programs to enhance operations and reduce expenses. Given the high cost of certain software, the FTI’s Digital Industry Club has been tasked with creating and offering essential programs, such as those for accounting and production control, at affordable prices. Underutilised technologies The Thai government has been promoting the integration of robotics and automation systems under its Industry 4.0 initiative. Yet, a 2020 Industry Ministry survey revealed that only 2% of Thai industries have reached this level of technological advancement. The FTI aims to support SMEs in developing technological innovations to add value to their products. The innovation prong of the policy includes collaboration with the Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Ministry to establish Innovation One, a 2-billion-baht fund designed to assist SMEs and startups in creating technology-based business projects. Additionally, the FTI is helping SMEs expand into global markets. The Made in Thailand (MiT) campaign, initiated by former FTI chairman Supant Mongkolsuthree, aims to increase SME sales through state procurement projects, encouraging the use of locally made products. “Under the Three Go’s policy, SMEs will gain better access to markets and sources of funding.” Sugar cane, a significant agricultural product, is being targeted for value-added innovations through a smart farming initiative. Improving agriculture The FTI is collaborating with universities, including Rajamangala University of Technology Phra Nakhon, to pilot projects that utilise farming technologies. The university will provide advice on farming and technological innovations and assist the FTI in sharing this knowledge with farmers nationwide. The agricultural sector, contributing 1.5 trillion baht in value and accounting for 8% of GDP, employs approximately 12 million farmers in Thailand. The FTI’s project is based on agriculture on demand, where crop production is determined by industrial demand in specific areas. The FTI’s Institute for Agro-Based Industries collaborates with the government to nurture a new generation of farmers who can integrate modern technologies with marketing strategies to enhance product sales and drive the economy. The Thai Sugar Millers Corporation (TSMC) supports this initiative, encouraging sugar cane farmers to adopt bio-economy strategies to diversify and increase their revenue. The bio-economy leverages renewable resources to produce energy, food, and other value-added products. TSMC has suggested using sugar cane by-products like molasses to produce ethanol and bagasse as fuel for power plants. Other materials from the sugar industry can be utilised for pharmaceutical and biochemical products. EV Challenge The FTI is also addressing the challenges posed by the electric vehicle (EV) industry to local auto parts makers, predominantly SMEs. A new unit, CFM-ONE, has been established to help these manufacturers transition from producing components for internal combustion engine (ICE) cars to parts for EVs. This initiative includes forming partnerships with car makers from Japan, Europe, the US, and China to support technological adaptation. Chairman of the FTI’s Auto Parts Industry Club and secretary of CFM-ONE Suphot Sukphisarn, mentioned that Chinese EV producers are being asked to aid Thai auto parts companies in transforming their ICE-related technology into suitable systems for EVs. With Chinese car manufacturers rapidly developing EV and battery technologies and expanding their investments in Thailand, Thai auto parts firms are encouraged to align with the growth of the zero-emission car industry. The FTI’s comprehensive approach aims to equip Thai SMEs with the necessary tools and support to thrive in an evolving economic landscape, reported Bangkok Post. By Alex Morgan Image courtesy of CGIAR Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Prime Minister Considers Hosting Formula One Race in Bangkok File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has had meetings with executives from Formula One and visited the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari racetrack in Italy's Bologna. This visit was an explorative move to assess the potential of Bangkok hosting a Formula One race. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327714-prime-minister-considers-hosting-formula-one-race-in-bangkok/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has had meetings with executives from Formula One and visited the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari racetrack in Italy's Bologna. This visit was an explorative move to assess the potential of Bangkok hosting a Formula One race. Formula One is famous for conducting the esteemed FIA Formula One World Championship every year over a period of roughly nine months. The 2024 season comprises 24 races spanning across 21 nations on five separate continents, showcasing its worldwide popularity and broad reach. The Thai government is currently assessing the practicability of hosting such a high-status sports event in Bangkok. The purpose is to use this event as an impetus for economic progress, community perks, and promoting youth involvement. By hosting a Formula One race, Thailand aims to augment its international tourism appeal and affirm its standing as a significant host for top international events. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Training Center for Anti-Trafficking Opened in Bangkok File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google The Thai government and Australia have teamed up to fight human trafficking, opening a new training center in Bangkok. The Counter Trafficking in Persons Center of Excellence (CTIP-COE) was officially inaugurated on May 17 by Thailand's Minister of Justice, Pol Colonel Tawee Sodsong, and Australia’s Ambassador to Thailand, Angela Macdonald. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327713-training-center-for-anti-trafficking-opened-in-bangkok/

The Thai government and Australia have teamed up to fight human trafficking, opening a new training center in Bangkok. The Counter Trafficking in Persons Center of Excellence (CTIP-COE) was officially inaugurated on May 17 by Thailand's Minister of Justice, Pol Colonel Tawee Sodsong, and Australia’s Ambassador to Thailand, Angela Macdonald. This new center is part of a 10-year ASEAN-Australia Counter Trafficking program, funded by Australia. This program is a continuation of a 20-year-long partnership between Australia and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), all working together to fight human trafficking. At the opening event, Tawee discussed the complex nature of human trafficking as a global issue, declaring it requires dedicated collaboration from various groups. Ambassador Macdonald applauded the Thai government for its determined efforts to fight human trafficking, adding that the CTIP-COE is the first of its kind in the region. The creation of the CTIP-COE follows a memorandum of understanding signed by Thailand and Australia in November 2022 to begin this working partnership. Its goal is to help ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking, which includes enforcing labor laws. The center's grand opening marked the completion of a training course given at CTIP-COE. It provided 48 people from Thailand with unique skills to help prevent and stop human trafficking. Both countries have assured their continued teamwork in addressing this pressing matter. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man accused of posing as a doctor to scam a woman File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Microsoft Bing A woman from Thailand claims she was swindled out of over 500,000 baht by a man pretending to be a highly skilled US doctor. He allegedly deceived her by claiming the money was needed for his mother's cancer treatment. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327534-thai-man-accused-of-posing-as-a-doctor-to-scam-a-woman/

A woman from Thailand claims she was swindled out of over 500,000 baht by a man pretending to be a highly skilled US doctor. He allegedly deceived her by claiming the money was needed for his mother's cancer treatment. The woman, known as Pei Pei, informed Channel 3 her ex-boyfriend, Golf, had created a false online identity as a US military doctor, duping her into giving him the significant amount of money. According to Pei Pei, Golf met her online last year posing as a military doctor, using uniforms and titles to support his fraudulent persona. She also revealed Golf had convinced her to help him adopt a child because of challenging circumstances, only to discover later that the child was Golf's from a previous marriage. Further, she shared that Golf asked for financial help for his mother's cancer treatment presenting a scenario where his mother needed overseas medication but did not have the funds. Believing in his story, and moved by compassion, Pei Pei willingly provided assistance. Following three months of dating, Pei Pei declared bankruptcy and noticed Golf gradually distanced himself from her due to her inability to continue funding him. She admitted she was taking sleeping pills regularly due to stress, and was once hospitalized due to their excessive consumption. Pei Pei later investigated Golf and discovered that he was not the doctor he claimed to be. His records showed a criminal background including a drug offense arrest in 2018 resulting in jail time. She confessed to taking drastic action out of anger, breaking into Golf's home and stabbing him twice. Golf responded by filing a complaint against her for trespassing, attempted murder and violation of the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA). Following Pei Pei's story going viral on Thai social media, more victims have come forward. One woman, Lek, accused Golf of defrauding and physically assaulting her in a similar manner to Pei Pei. Sit, the owner of Golf's rented home, informed Channel 3 that Golf had defaulted on rent payment, causing a debt of 50,000 baht in total. Golf, on the other hand, denied the allegations in an interview. He stated that he owns a business that imports and sells medical tools to Thai hospitals and this might have caused some misunderstanding. He also disagreed about the amount of money borrowed from Pei Pei and blamed the perceived aggression and violent behavior from Pei Pei for their falling out. According to Golf, the 500,000 baht sum was mutually spent while they were dating. He presented CCTV footage of Pei Pei initiating a violent act and alleged that she tried to kill him. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Microsoft Bing -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourist Activities at Phuket's Cafe del Mar Disrupted by Taxi Conflict File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google Taxi drivers near Cafe del Mar in Kamala, Phuket, have caused another disturbance affecting tourists. Kamala Police Station received a complaint about an incident that happened on Wednesday evening. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327533-tourist-activities-at-phukets-cafe-del-mar-disrupted-by-taxi-conflict/

Taxi drivers near Cafe del Mar in Kamala, Phuket, have caused another disturbance affecting tourists. Kamala Police Station received a complaint about an incident that happened on Wednesday evening. Chalermphon Kwanyuen, a 40-year-old taxi driver, was booked through the Bolt app to pick up passengers from Cafe del Mar. At about 7:50 pm, upon his arrival, Manasmee Poksakul, a local taxi driver, spoke to him about their concerns with app-hailed taxis in that area. Traditional taxi drivers in the area are upset with Bolt and Grab drivers, claiming they take away their customers. Chalermphon, aware of previous issues between taxi drivers at Cafe del Mar, started a conversation with Manasmee, who requested he park farther along at a nearby hotel. As Manasmee explained the rules to him, Chalermphon's passengers grew uncomfortable and left the taxi. As they departed in the rain, Manasmee allegedly shouted rudely at them. The incident was recorded by foreign tourists and uploaded to a popular local social media page, sparking criticism towards the taxi drivers and concern for the image of Phuket tourism. Manasmee was called to the police station and informed that he would be charged for threatening behavior. However, after paying a 500 baht fine, the case was closed. Chalermphon was pleased with the outcome, stating he wanted to maintain his safety without intensifying the situation. At the moment, the incident has not been publicly acknowledged by the Phuket Land Transport Office (PLTO), headed by Chief Adcha Buachan. The PLTO is tasked with managing the activity of all taxi drivers and vehicles in Phuket. Last reports from the PLTO showed continued efforts to clamp down on unlawful taxi activity at the Phuket airport, which has been ongoing for the past few months. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Car Fire Leads to Traffic Congestion Near South Pattaya's Buffalo Market File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google A car fire disrupted traffic near the Buffalo Market on Thepprasit Road, South Pattaya yesterday. A black Kia van driven by Patcharaporn Chatmong, 36, caught fire, causing heavy smoke to spread across the road. This incident occurred just after she had dropped off her child at school. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327532-car-fire-leads-to-traffic-congestion-near-south-pattayas-buffalo-market/

A car fire disrupted traffic near the Buffalo Market on Thepprasit Road, South Pattaya yesterday. A black Kia van driven by Patcharaporn Chatmong, 36, caught fire, causing heavy smoke to spread across the road. This incident occurred just after she had dropped off her child at school. The fire began when the brakes on her four-year-old car failed, causing Patcharaporn to rely on the handbrake. She spotted smoke coming from the engine and quickly abandoned her vehicle, calling for help. First Class Chief Petty Officer Peeraphat Nopsiri, a technician from the Thai Royal Navy ship HTMS Naresuan, rallied local people to help fight the fire. They utilized chemical fire extinguishers and worked to open the car hood to put out the fire. Regarding the incident, Patcharaporn shared, "My brakes failed all of a sudden. I had to use the handbrake. When I saw the smoke and fire, I quickly left the car and called for help." Preliminary investigations by the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation team point to an electrical system error as the cause of the fire. Swift action by bystanders and emergency respondents helped contain the fire, preventing further damage. TOP Picture courtesy: KardChuek News -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe