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Thailand Prepares Economic Stimulus Amid US Tariff Pause File photo for reference only Thailand is gearing up for economic stimulus focused on job creation, following a temporary 90-day pause on U.S. tariffs that had threatened to impact the nation's economy. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira noted that President Trump's decision to lower hefty duties, including a 36% tariff on Thai exports, has afforded Thai officials more time to craft an appropriate response to balance trade. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357397-thailand-prepares-economic-stimulus-amid-us-tariff-pause/

Picture courtesy of Dailynews A conflict over a security camera in Phetchabun province has led to a tense standoff after a man shot his neighbour and a police officer. The incident began on April 9 in Ban Khlong Kon Huad, Mueang Chon Daen, when 43-year-old Manop objected to his neighbour Viroj's security camera capturing footage of his property. This disagreement quickly escalated into violence, with Manop shooting Viroj before fleeing into a nearby forest. Police Colonel Chaiya Nukhumsap and his team launched a manhunt for Manop, during which Pol. Maj. Kasidet Wacharamonchai was also shot in the right leg by the suspect. Both Viroj and Pol. Maj. Kasidet were promptly taken to Chon Daen Hospital and later transferred to Phetchabun Hospital for further care. Despite the police's efforts to negotiate Manop's surrender, the suspect remains evasive, hiding in the forest. Family members, including Manop's mother, sister, daughter, and son, have been enlisted to persuade him to surrender but have had no success so far. The standoff, stretching beyond three hours, has compelled the police to resort to using tear gas in an attempt to pressure Manop into surrendering. The altercation was triggered by Manop's objection to Viroj's security camera installation, which led to a heated argument and the shooting. As the manhunt continues, police are determined to apprehend Manop and resolve the situation without further harm, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-10

File photo for reference only Thailand is gearing up for economic stimulus focused on job creation, following a temporary 90-day pause on U.S. tariffs that had threatened to impact the nation's economy. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira noted that President Trump's decision to lower hefty duties, including a 36% tariff on Thai exports, has afforded Thai officials more time to craft an appropriate response to balance trade. Originally, the tariffs had been set to cut growth in Thailand, Southeast Asia's second-largest economy, by 1%. As part of its response strategy, Thailand plans to increase imports from the U.S. and reduce tariffs, seeking to renegotiate better trade terms. Measures imposed to curb stock market volatility, including trading limits and a ban on short-selling, will be relaxed later this April. The U.S. tariff reprieve sparked a 4.5% rise in Thailand’s SET Index, and other Asian markets saw similar relief. Meanwhile, Asean ministers, including Malaysian Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry Zafrul Aziz, advocated for regional economic integration under Malaysia's chairmanship, while discussing responses to Trump's policies. Furthermore, Vietnam and the U.S. are set to begin discussions on a bilateral trade agreement to mitigate the impact of tariffs, which pause had originally threatened Vietnam’s export-driven growth. Vietnam aims to increase U.S. product purchases as part of negotiations. The Philippines also expressed interest in initiating trade discussions with hopes of establishing an eventual free trade agreement, as countries throughout the region explore ways to secure economic partnerships and counter potential future tariffs, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-04-10

Thailand Adapts Tourism Strategy Amid Drop in Chinese Arrivals Picture courtesy of Holiday in Pattaya Thailand's tourism sector is adjusting its strategies in response to a surprising decline in Chinese visitors, with a notable influx of Malaysian tourists helping to balance the scales. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) noted that between March 31 and April 6, Malaysia emerged as the top source of arrivals, with 92,262 visitors—a 12.8% increase. Conversely, Chinese arrivals dropped by 1.2% to 64,177 during the same period. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357396-thailand-adapts-tourism-strategy-amid-drop-in-chinese-arrivals/

Picture courtesy of Holiday in Pattaya Thailand's tourism sector is adjusting its strategies in response to a surprising decline in Chinese visitors, with a notable influx of Malaysian tourists helping to balance the scales. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) noted that between March 31 and April 6, Malaysia emerged as the top source of arrivals, with 92,262 visitors—a 12.8% increase. Conversely, Chinese arrivals dropped by 1.2% to 64,177 during the same period. As of April 6, China remains the largest overall source of tourists for 2024, with 1.38 million arrivals. However, Malaysia is rapidly catching up, with 1.23 million visitors so far this year. Total international arrivals to Thailand have surpassed 10 million, reflecting a 1.79% year-on-year increase. TAT chief Thapanee Kiatphaibool stated that the agency is evaluating the situation to refine its promotional strategies, potentially focusing on emerging markets. The slowdown in Chinese visitors is attributed to broader economic challenges, including global economic headwinds and US tariffs affecting China's economy. Despite the current dip, TAT aims for 7.3 million Chinese tourists in 2024. Plans include reviving traditional marketing, promoting group tours from smaller Chinese cities, and encouraging independent travel through online platforms. Thapanee emphasized Thailand's appeal as a budget-friendly destination offering quality experiences. In addition to focusing on Chinese tourists, TAT is exploring long-haul tourism growth, maintaining a visitor target of 1 million from the US, and increasing efforts in Italy and Spain. The UK, Germany, and Israel remain key markets, with Russia and India expected to contribute 2 million and up to 2.5 million visitors, respectively. The TAT has prepared strategies to mitigate negative impacts anticipated in the latter half of the year. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra recently met with TAT officials to finalize plans for the upcoming Songkran holiday, aiming to maintain strong tourist numbers despite economic uncertainties, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-10

Macau's MGM Grand Paradise Offers High-Paying Jobs for Thais Photo courtesy of Traveloka Thai nationals are presented with an exciting opportunity to work at Macau's prestigious MGM Grand Paradise Limited, as the luxury resort and casino operator launches a major recruitment drive offering salaries up to 93,453 baht per month. The announcement was made by Somchai Morakotsriwan, Director General of the Department of Employment, on April 9. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357395-macaus-mgm-grand-paradise-offers-high-paying-jobs-for-thais/

Photo courtesy of Traveloka Thai nationals are presented with an exciting opportunity to work at Macau's prestigious MGM Grand Paradise Limited, as the luxury resort and casino operator launches a major recruitment drive offering salaries up to 93,453 baht per month. The announcement was made by Somchai Morakotsriwan, Director General of the Department of Employment, on April 9. The recruitment involves nine job roles across 73 positions with salaries ranging from 53,883 to 93,453 baht, accompanied by benefits adhering to Macau’s labour regulations. Available positions include: Food and beverage service staff Flair bartenders Spa receptionists Front desk receptionists VIP food and beverage service staff Butlers Spa managers Massage therapists International marketing hosts Premium hair stylists In addition to competitive pay, successful candidates will receive return airfare, free meals during work hours, overtime pay, and full legal protections under local labour laws. Somchai emphasized the value of this opportunity for Thai workers to acquire international experience while benefiting from excellent remuneration and working conditions. Applications are currently open and will remain so until April 16. Interested candidates can apply through the official website's "Apply to work through state arrangements" section, available 24/7 without any application fee. The Department of Employment encourages eligible individuals to act swiftly, as the attractive salary and benefits are likely to fill the positions quickly. This recruitment drive comes as part of a broader trend of Thai overseas workers significantly contributing to the economy, injecting around 400 billion baht annually. Despite government efforts to address illegal employment, over 382,000 Thais have worked abroad illegally in 2023 alone, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-10

Thailand's Crackdown on E-Cigarettes Nets 1.9 Billion Baht in Seizures Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Over the past six months, the Royal Thai Police have conducted an extensive crackdown on money laundering linked to e-cigarettes and laughing gas, resulting in the arrest of more than 2,300 individuals and asset seizures totalling over 1.9 billion baht. This effort is spearheaded by Deputy National Police Chief Prachuap Wongsuk, the director of the Anti-Money Laundering Centre. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357394-thailands-crackdown-on-e-cigarettes-nets-19-billion-baht-in-seizures/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Over the past six months, the Royal Thai Police have conducted an extensive crackdown on money laundering linked to e-cigarettes and laughing gas, resulting in the arrest of more than 2,300 individuals and asset seizures totalling over 1.9 billion baht. This effort is spearheaded by Deputy National Police Chief Prachuap Wongsuk, the director of the Anti-Money Laundering Centre. From October 1 to March 31, the Centre tackled 252 money laundering cases, with significant confiscations of high-value assets. In the specific fight against illegal e-cigarettes, police have apprehended around 2,337 suspects and seized over 1.6 million vaping products worth more than 296 million baht. Several investigations revealed substantial financial networks tied to these activities, leading to asset seizures valued at over 202 million baht. This crackdown aligns with the Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra administration’s broader initiative to tackle the e-cigarette problem by targeting not only the products but also the offenders' financial assets. The Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) supports prosecuting e-cigarette-related offences under the Customs Act and the Anti-Money Laundering Act, enabling both criminal charges and the seizure of assets. All relevant agencies are urged to work closely with AMLO, particularly in controlling e-cigarette distribution through schools, warehouses, and online platforms. Efforts also include collaboration with the Customs Department to curb the smuggling of these goods. Deputy Prachuap Wongsuk called for intensified police efforts to eliminate the illegal importation and distribution of e-cigarettes and nitrous oxide, highlighting the public health disturbances caused by their widespread use, especially among young people. These steps are deemed essential in mitigating the adverse effects on both users and the wider community, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-10

Student Loan Fund to Deduct Extra 3,000 Baht from Overdue Borrowers Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post A wave of concern has swept through student loan borrowers as the Student Loan Fund (SLF) rolls out an extra 3,000 baht salary deduction for borrowers with overdue payments, starting this month. This measure aims to recover unpaid loans that have grown to concerning levels. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357392-student-loan-fund-to-deduct-extra-3000-baht-from-overdue-borrowers/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post A wave of concern has swept through student loan borrowers as the Student Loan Fund (SLF) rolls out an extra 3,000 baht salary deduction for borrowers with overdue payments, starting this month. This measure aims to recover unpaid loans that have grown to concerning levels. Nanthawan Wongkhachornjit, manager of the SLF, clarified that this deduction is specifically for borrowers who haven't cleared their overdue debts by July each year. Despite regular repayments by many, those with lingering overdue amounts will see this new financial cut. The deduction announcement went viral, causing borrowers to express frustration and confusion, as many feel their efforts to pay regularly should exempt them from additional costs. Nanthawan assured the public that this isn't a universal policy but a targeted move to encourage fiscal responsibility and the fund's sustainability. Borrowers unsure of their payment status can check the SLF mobile app to verify their account details and explore repayment options. The SLF is also offering flexible solutions to help manage repayments, including loan restructuring opportunities that extend the repayment period by up to 15 years. To avoid penalties, the SLF advises borrowers to act swiftly—either by updating their repayment plan or settling overdue balances. Prompt action could reduce interest and late fees, thereby averting the salary deductions. The SLF oversees a substantial fund providing loans to students across Thailand. But as overdue debts increase, tighter enforcement measures have become necessary. Borrowers must now choose between settling their debts or preparing for reduced monthly income as deductions commence this April, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-10

Thailand's Sugar Tax Spurs Sweeter Beverage Reformulations Picture courtesy of Grocery Gazette Thailand's beverage industry is reeling from the latest sugar tax phase, prompting producers to either reduce sugar content or face substantial financial penalties. The Finance Ministry's new tax schedule, implemented by the Excise Department from April 1, marks the fourth and final phase of a long-term health initiative that commenced in 2017. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357391-thailands-sugar-tax-spurs-sweeter-beverage-reformulations/

Picture courtesy of Grocery Gazette Thailand's beverage industry is reeling from the latest sugar tax phase, prompting producers to either reduce sugar content or face substantial financial penalties. The Finance Ministry's new tax schedule, implemented by the Excise Department from April 1, marks the fourth and final phase of a long-term health initiative that commenced in 2017. The objective is clear: to deter sugary drink consumption and combat escalating health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. According to the new tax structure: Beverages with 10-14g of sugar per litre are taxed at 5 baht, up from 3 baht. Drinks with 6-8g of sugar see a tax increase from 0.3 baht to 1 baht. Those containing 8-10g of sugar rise from 1 baht to 3 baht. Beverages with 6g or less remain tax-free. Interestingly, drinks exceeding 14g per litre keep the maximum tax rate of 5 baht per litre, yet such sugar-heavy options have practically vanished from the market. Despite the tax hikes, officials at the Excise Department assure consumers that prices are unlikely to inflate significantly. Instead, manufacturers have been proactively reformulating their products to incorporate artificial sweeteners or less harmful natural alternatives. The shift in product composition is evident in the numbers: Low-sugar drinks (6g or less) have surged from 90 offerings in 2018 to 4,736 in 2023. Beverages in the 6-8g range have expanded from 758 to 2,900. Drinks with 14g or more have been eradicated, declining from 819 to zero. Mid-sweet beverages (10-14g range) have significantly reduced from 2,993 to a mere 524. This sugar tax marks a significant transition for Thailand's beverage industry, promoting a health-conscious shift in consumer offerings. As the nation continues to address its public health agenda, manufacturers are left to adapt or absorb the tax implications of sugar-laden products, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-10

Pattaya Bar Raided After Noise Complaints Disturbing Residents Picture courtesy of Pattaya News Pattaya City Police took swift action against the SEE U bar in Soi Land Office 6 late last night, following numerous complaints about excessive noise disrupting local residents' peace. The operation, carried out at 11.30pm on April 9, was led by Pol. Col. Anek Sarathongyoo, with his Special Operations Team and Patrol Unit 2 stepping in to resolve the issue. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357390-pattaya-bar-raided-after-noise-complaints-disturbing-residents/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya News Pattaya City Police took swift action against the SEE U bar in Soi Land Office 6 late last night, following numerous complaints about excessive noise disrupting local residents' peace. The operation, carried out at 11.30pm on April 9, was led by Pol. Col. Anek Sarathongyoo, with his Special Operations Team and Patrol Unit 2 stepping in to resolve the issue. Upon arrival, officers arrested the bar's manager, 24-year-old Jaryaporn, whose surname was not disclosed. Investigators seized receipts indicating alcohol sales and charged her with selling booze without a licence and causing a public disturbance with loud music. Police emphasised their commitment to addressing community concerns, with a spokesperson stating, "No matter the size of the issue, if it impacts the community, we will not overlook it." This incident marks the third bar raid in recent days, highlighting an ongoing effort to clamp down on noise violations in the area. Earlier in the week, another bar in Soi Bongkot was targeted due to similar complaints. The crackdown forms part of a wider campaign by the Royal Thai Police, Region 2 Police, and Chonburi Provincial Police aimed at cleaning up Pattaya's nightlife. The goal is to ensure compliance with noise regulations and address other illegal activities, with bar checks extending into the Soi Excite area. Through these operations, authorities aim to restore peace for Pattaya residents, who have long endured disruptions from the city's vibrant party scene, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-10

Pensioner's Motorbike Near Miss with Lorry in Bang Lamung Picture courtesy of Pattaya News A potentially catastrophic accident was narrowly avoided in Bang Lamung as a 70-year-old pensioner lost control of his motorbike and came dangerously close to an articulated lorry on April 9. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357389-pensioners-motorbike-near-miss-with-lorry-in-bang-lamung/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya News A potentially catastrophic accident was narrowly avoided in Bang Lamung as a 70-year-old pensioner lost control of his motorbike and came dangerously close to an articulated lorry on April 9. The incident unfolded around 10am when Sawang Boriboon Rescue Centre responded to an emergency call on Highway 331, near a petrol station in Khao Mai Kaew. Upon arrival, rescue teams found Wichai, the rider, injured but alive next to his damaged purple-and-white Yamaha Fino in the road. Paramedics treated Wichai, who suffered a gash above his eyebrow and scrapes. Fortunately, his injuries were deemed minor, and he was taken to a local hospital for further care. CCTV footage revealed Wichai had lost control, causing his motorbike to slide perilously close to the rear of an 18-wheel lorry. “He narrowly missed being hit,” remarked a police spokesperson, noting the situation could have been much more serious. In light of the incident, emergency services emphasized the importance of caution for all motorists, particularly senior riders. They advised ensuring vehicle maintenance and exercising heightened awareness on busy highways to prevent similar incidents, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-10

Hacker Targets Phuket Airport Sign with Political Message on Israel Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News In a surprising breach just before Thailand's bustling Songkran travel period, a digital sign at Phuket International Airport was hacked to display a political message denouncing Israel's actions in Palestine. The incident occurred on April 9, with the sign near the baggage scan area showing, "Hacked by Nexusqassamy" and "baby killer," highlighting ongoing concerns in Gaza. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357388-hacker-targets-phuket-airport-sign-with-political-message-on-israel/

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News In a surprising breach just before Thailand's bustling Songkran travel period, a digital sign at Phuket International Airport was hacked to display a political message denouncing Israel's actions in Palestine. The incident occurred on April 9, with the sign near the baggage scan area showing, "Hacked by Nexusqassamy" and "baby killer," highlighting ongoing concerns in Gaza. Despite the breach, officials from Airports of Thailand (AoT) Phuket have only stated that they are "looking into it," without confirming any ongoing investigation or timeframe for resolution. This lapse in digital security contrasts sharply with the airport's recent efforts to emphasize its readiness and security practices. Coincidentally, the hack coincided with AoT Phuket launching a campaign showcasing its safety and preparedness for the Songkran holiday. This campaign featured parades and high-profile demonstrations of security measures, intended to reassure the public of the airport's capability to handle an influx of passengers. General Manager Monchai Tanode announced that from April 10 to 19, the airport is set to handle over 523,000 passengers, operating more than 3,200 flights. Measures to manage this surge include enhanced biometric systems and real-time passenger monitoring. Despite these efforts, the hacked sign underlines potential cybersecurity gaps at the airport. It also serves as a timely reminder for travellers arriving just as the celebrations commence — with advisories to anticipate crowded conditions and adhere to new security protocols. As authorities address this breach, the overarching message of safety and security during the Songkran festivities remains paramount, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-10

Phuket Faces Water Crisis as Reservoir Levels Plummet As Phuket's reservoir levels drop to alarming lows, the island braces for a potential water crisis amid fears of severe drought. Provincial leaders, led by Phuket Chief Sophon Suwannarat, convened for a critical video conference on April 8 to devise immediate mitigation strategies. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357387-phuket-faces-water-crisis-as-reservoir-levels-plummet/

As Phuket's reservoir levels drop to alarming lows, the island braces for a potential water crisis amid fears of severe drought. Provincial leaders, led by Phuket Chief Sophon Suwannarat, convened for a critical video conference on April 8 to devise immediate mitigation strategies. The urgent meeting, chaired by Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul as Commander of the National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Committee, aimed to tackle the escalating dry season challenges across Thailand. Phuket's water woes are stark, with the Bang Wad reservoir in Kathu at merely 25% capacity, holding a scant 2.51 million cubic metres against a full capacity of 10.2 million. Other reservoirs, Bang Neow Dum and Klong Kata, fare slightly better but remain under half full. The conference featured reports from four key working groups addressing drought: Forecasting Group: Insights from the Meteorological Department and Water Resources Information Institute on expected rainfall patterns. Water Management Group: Plans from the Office of National Water Resources and Royal Irrigation Department focusing on conservation and water allocation. Water Shortage Resolution Group: Local emergency actions suggested by the Provincial Waterworks Authority and other agencies. Problem Resolution Support Group: Offered aid including potential rainmaking by the Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation Department. Efforts are being intensified, with drought risks increasing in regions like Nakhon Ratchasima and Chon Buri. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation underscored the necessity for proactive, coordinated efforts from all agencies to prevent the situation from worsening. As Phuket navigates this critical period, accelerating resource deployment and reinforcing collaboration remain paramount to curtailing the impending crisis, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-10

Bangkok Building Collapse: Nearly 100 Interviewed as Probe Widens File photo for reference only In the wake of the catastrophic collapse of the State Audit Office (SAO) building in Bangkok, authorities have made significant strides in their investigation. As part of the criminal probe, police have interviewed nearly 100 individuals, including project employees, relatives of the deceased, eyewitnesses, and six injured persons. However, it remains uncertain who might face charges or the timeline for concluding the investigation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357386-bangkok-building-collapse-nearly-100-interviewed-as-probe-widens/

File photo for reference only In the wake of the catastrophic collapse of the State Audit Office (SAO) building in Bangkok, authorities have made significant strides in their investigation. As part of the criminal probe, police have interviewed nearly 100 individuals, including project employees, relatives of the deceased, eyewitnesses, and six injured persons. However, it remains uncertain who might face charges or the timeline for concluding the investigation. Pol Maj Gen Noppasil Poonsawat, leading the investigative efforts, emphasised that evidence gathering is ongoing. While search operations continue, 22 fatalities have been confirmed, and 72 remain missing beneath the debris. In parallel, the Senate Committee on Commerce and Industry is probing potential breaches by China Railway No. 10 (Thailand) Co., which was involved in constructing the ill-fated building. Allegations have surfaced that the company employed Thai nominees to circumvent foreign ownership rules, raising substantial legal and ethical concerns. Senator Ekachai Ruangrat revealed that a subcommittee is investigating whether three Thai nationals were used as proxies to hold a 51% stake in the construction firm. These individuals are connected to multiple companies, and suspicions arise due to inconsistencies in their financial profiles. Initial findings also indicate the involvement of Chinese nationals as shareholders. The committee is further examining the potential use of substandard materials in the construction, which could compound the accountability for the building's collapse. Senator Ekachai stressed the negative impact of foreign companies exploiting Thai nominees, promising that findings will be directed to the Department of Special Investigation and the government. The investigations underline a broader issue of Thai nominee utilisation, which poses significant threats to domestic businesses. The pursuit of justice in this tragic collapse is crucial for the families of victims and to prevent similar future breaches, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-10

UK Drug Dealer's Hidden Thai Cash Seized After M6 Arrest Picture courtesy of MedlinePlus A British drug dealer, Gary Boone, has been sentenced to four years in prison and ordered to pay a hefty £426,000 after being caught with cocaine on the M6 motorway in Cheshire. The 62-year-old from Bridgwater was apprehended by police in July 2023, driving a suspicious vehicle that led to the discovery of drugs and cash in his possession. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357385-uk-drug-dealers-hidden-thai-cash-seized-after-m6-arrest/

Picture courtesy of MedlinePlus A British drug dealer, Gary Boone, has been sentenced to four years in prison and ordered to pay a hefty £426,000 after being caught with cocaine on the M6 motorway in Cheshire. The 62-year-old from Bridgwater was apprehended by police in July 2023, driving a suspicious vehicle that led to the discovery of drugs and cash in his possession. Following a tip-off from Merseyside Police, Cheshire officers tracked Boone’s grey Mazda CX-5 near Knutsford. Inside, they found a sack and a sandwich bag containing high-grade cocaine worth up to £50,000, along with cannabis and a mobile phone. After pleading guilty to drug possession with intent to supply, Boone faced sentencing at Chester Crown Court in September 2023. However, the case took a significant turn when the Cheshire Police’s economic crime unit delved into his finances under the Proceeds of Crime Act. Investigators unearthed over £150,000 hidden in a Bangkok bank account and additional assets, bringing Boone’s illicit gains to more than £380,000. Consequently, Chester Crown Court imposed a £425,169.10 confiscation order on Tuesday, April 7. Financial Investigator Kirsten Jones, who led the probe, emphasised the operation's success in recovering Boone’s crime-derived assets. She stated that Boone will have this substantial financial penalty looming over him indefinitely unless he pays. Detective Sergeant Keeley Powles commended the team’s meticulous work: “The exceptional investigation has enabled us to reclaim £179,490 of assets immediately. We remain committed to disrupting those who peddle drugs and profiting from crime by recovering funds stolen from society.”, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-10