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File photo for reference only The Philippine Navy has enhanced its maritime capabilities with the arrival of the South Korean-made corvette, BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06), welcomed on April 8 by the Department of National Defense Secretary, Gilberto Teodoro Jr., at the Naval Operating Base in Subic, Zambales. Named after a notable Filipino independence fighter, the vessel will play a strategic role in safeguarding the country's territorial waters, primarily in the West Philippine Sea amid mounting Chinese presence. Teodoro highlighted the ship's dual role as a deterrent and a partner in joint operations, reinforcing international law and alliances. The BRP Miguel Malvar, the lead ship of its class, boasts a length of 118.4 meters and a breadth of 14.9 meters, with a weight of 3,200 tons. Its advanced equipment includes anti-ship missiles, vertical launch systems, and sophisticated radar, offering a cruising speed of 15 knots and a range of 4,500 nautical miles. The vessel signifies a pivotal advance in the Philippines' defense capabilities, aligning with Teodoro's emphasis on self-reliance and enhancing domain awareness. He underscored the partnership with South Korea in strengthening naval resilience and sustainability, crucial for developing the country's blue economy. The BRP Miguel Malvar's arrival is part of a P28-billion deal with South Korea's HD Hyundai Heavy Industries, including a subsequent corvette, the future BRP Diego Silang (FFG-07), scheduled for delivery in late 2025. As the Philippines bolsters its naval fleet, this acquisition marks a significant step in securing its maritime sovereignty and economic interests, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-04-08

Pattaya Bar Manager Detained for Operating Beyond Permitted Hours Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a pre-dawn raid on April 8, law enforcement officials, spearheaded by Police Colonel Anek Srathongyu, targeted a host bar in Pattaya for operating beyond permitted hours. The crackdown occurred at 2.36am and was a joint effort by the Pattaya City Police, special operations officers, and Bang Lamung district authorities, including Nattapop Yomjinda, Natthawat Sophonsawetasilp, and Tharit Chancharoen. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357173-pattaya-bar-manager-detained-for-operating-beyond-permitted-hours/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a pre-dawn raid on April 8, law enforcement officials, spearheaded by Police Colonel Anek Srathongyu, targeted a host bar in Pattaya for operating beyond permitted hours. The crackdown occurred at 2.36am and was a joint effort by the Pattaya City Police, special operations officers, and Bang Lamung district authorities, including Nattapop Yomjinda, Natthawat Sophonsawetasilp, and Tharit Chancharoen. The raid was initiated following public complaints about the South Pattaya venue located in Bongkot alley. Reports indicated the establishment was exceeding allowed operational times and playing excessively loud music. Upon arrival, officials confirmed the venue was still active, although it hosted only a few patrons at that hour. Authorities promptly ordered the closure of operations, turning on lights and stopping recorded music. Patrons underwent identity verification and drug screening, with no illegal substances or illicit activities discovered during the checks. The establishment's inability to produce requisite documentation led to the detention of the manager, who now faces further legal action. The operation underscores local law enforcement's commitment to enforcing compliance with operational regulations for entertainment venues in Pattaya, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-08

Koh Kut's Accommodation Woes Hinder Tourism Growth Amid Land Disputes File photo for reference only The scenic island of Koh Kut in Trat faces significant challenges in accommodating tourists, largely stemming from a shortage of accommodation exacerbated by unresolved land disputes. Dechatorn Chan-ob, chief of the Tambon Administrative Organization and owner of Suan Ya Resort, highlighted the island's limited capacity of about 1,100 to 1,200 hotel rooms, which restricts visitor numbers to around 4,500 per day. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357172-koh-kuts-accommodation-woes-hinder-tourism-growth-amid-land-disputes/

File photo for reference only The scenic island of Koh Kut in Trat faces significant challenges in accommodating tourists, largely stemming from a shortage of accommodation exacerbated by unresolved land disputes. Dechatorn Chan-ob, chief of the Tambon Administrative Organization and owner of Suan Ya Resort, highlighted the island's limited capacity of about 1,100 to 1,200 hotel rooms, which restricts visitor numbers to around 4,500 per day. During peak times such as weekends and holidays, Koh Kut frequently struggles with room shortages, particularly for international visitors eager to visit. While local resort owners aim to increase capacity, their efforts are thwarted by ongoing land disputes with the navy, which currently controls extensive areas on the island. These unresolved land rights issues have stalled both accommodation expansions and public infrastructure projects. Dechatorn mentioned recent incidents where military actions hindered development, including the navy seizing road-building equipment—a move highlighting the lack of collaboration on projects beneficial to both residents and visitors. The broader maritime land conflict, compounded by the unresolved MOU-44 concerning overlapping territorial claims between Thailand and Cambodia, further complicates Koh Kut's situation, driving demand for more accommodation that the island cannot support. While half of the 192 land dispute cases have seen some resolution, budgetary limitations have stalled further progress, according to Koh Kut district chief Pairat Soisaeng. Despite acknowledging the military's legal responsibilities, Pairat remains hopeful for solutions and suggests seeking additional funding to address the pressing issues. The challenge remains balancing tourism growth with resolving conflicts over land use and control—a delicate interplay crucial for Koh Kut's development and its appeal as a tourist destination, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-08

Phoney Political Connections Gang Accused of 8.2 Million Baht Scam Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod A Songkhla couple has filed a complaint against a gang accused of extorting 8.2 million baht by falsely claiming connections with high-profile politicians to secure their son's release from prison. The complaint, assisted by lawyer Chatchawan Bamrungwong, was submitted to Police Lieutenant Colonel Jirasak Wongsuriya at Hat Yai Police Station. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357171-phoney-political-connections-gang-accused-of-82-million-baht-scam/

Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod A Songkhla couple has filed a complaint against a gang accused of extorting 8.2 million baht by falsely claiming connections with high-profile politicians to secure their son's release from prison. The complaint, assisted by lawyer Chatchawan Bamrungwong, was submitted to Police Lieutenant Colonel Jirasak Wongsuriya at Hat Yai Police Station. The accused, identified as Rachatthorn, Sompong, and Natthaphon, allegedly posed as associates of Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin and Pheu Thai MP Chusak Keerimatthong. They claimed they could influence the reduction of Sunaiya's son's sentence, who is imprisoned for attempted murder. Sunaiya, the victim, recounted that Rachatthorn falsely presented himself as an advisor to a parliamentary committee. Trusting this facade, she initially transferred 2.9 million baht, believing in their promises of influence. The gang created a sense of credibility by arranging video calls and meetings at Parliament and even orchestrating a meeting with Somsak at Hat Yai Airport. To further deceive Sunaiya, the gang fabricated confidential letters from ministers and showed photographs with prominent figures. However, when no progress was made regarding her son's release, she realised the deception. Upon consulting with lawyer Chatchawan, Sunaiya learned that pardoning requires jurisdiction belonging to the Justice Minister, not Somsak. This realisation prompted her and her husband to pursue legal action against the gang. Reports suggest that Sompong, one of the accused, is linked to a senator from Samut Sakhon and was recently involved in an illegal diesel operation in Songkhla. As the legal proceedings unfold, the focus remains on holding the perpetrators accountable for their fraudulent activities, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-08

Chiang Mai Hospital Cautions Public After Girl Finds Leech in Nose Photo via Facebook/ โรงพยาบาลนครพิงค์ Nakhonping Hospital in Chiang Mai has issued a public advisory following a peculiar medical case involving a three-year-old girl who had a leech extracted from her nose. The incident underscores the potential risks of using unfiltered natural water sources. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357170-chiang-mai-hospital-cautions-public-after-girl-finds-leech-in-nose/

Photo via Facebook/ โรงพยาบาลนครพิงค์ Nakhonping Hospital in Chiang Mai has issued a public advisory following a peculiar medical case involving a three-year-old girl who had a leech extracted from her nose. The incident underscores the potential risks of using unfiltered natural water sources. The young girl experienced persistent nosebleeds from her right nostril over four days. Initially taken to Omkoi Hospital, the medical staff there could not determine the bleeding's cause, leading to her referral to Nakhonping Hospital. The girl's family mentioned she had washed her face in a stream, prompting suspicions that a foreign object or bacteria from the water might be responsible. A detailed examination by Nakhonping's doctor revealed a leech, approximately three centimetres long, firmly attached in her nasal cavity. A video shared by the hospital shows the careful removal of the leech, which had been feeding on the girl's blood. Following the successful extraction, the bleeding stopped, and the girl was given disinfectant medication as a precautionary measure. The hospital's social media post highlighted the rarity but possibility of such occurrences, especially when using natural water sources without proper filtration. They advise against washing faces, drinking, or brushing teeth with untreated water, and emphasize seeking professional medical help for similar symptoms. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of caution when interacting with natural water bodies, encouraging the public to remain vigilant about their health after such exposures, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-08

Tragic Choking Incident Claims Life of Young Boy in Bangkok Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A heartbreaking incident in Bangkok's Rat Burana district has claimed the life of a five-year-old boy from Myanmar, who tragically choked on food in the early hours of April 8. Responding promptly, police and medical personnel from Siriraj Hospital arrived at the scene to find the boy, weighing over 50 kilograms, lying near the entrance of his home, exhibiting signs of asphyxiation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357168-tragic-choking-incident-claims-life-of-young-boy-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A heartbreaking incident in Bangkok's Rat Burana district has claimed the life of a five-year-old boy from Myanmar, who tragically choked on food in the early hours of April 8. Responding promptly, police and medical personnel from Siriraj Hospital arrived at the scene to find the boy, weighing over 50 kilograms, lying near the entrance of his home, exhibiting signs of asphyxiation. The child's father, Somilay, revealed that his son had experienced breathing difficulties earlier, having consumed steamed Thai sausage, boiled eggs, and milk prior to the incident. It remains unclear if the boy had also eaten dragon fruit, which was found in the refrigerator nearby. Neighbour Patcharee, who witnessed the boy's distress, had seen him restless around 8pm. She assumed he was experiencing a relapse from prior hospitalisation and urged him to stay upright. Patcharee recalled the boy's calm yet fluctuating condition, aware of his recent health concerns such as asthma and fluid in the lungs. Upon the arrival of the rescue team, the boy had lost consciousness. CPR efforts led to the expulsion of large pieces of dragon fruit and milk, indicating a possible airway obstruction. Despite valiant attempts to revive him, the boy's life could not be saved. The tragic event left his parents and the community heartbroken, highlighted by volunteers also visibly moved by the incident. It stands as a solemn reminder of the importance of vigilant supervision during children's meals. The boy's body has been sent to Siriraj Hospital's forensic department for examination, with family awaiting the completion of this process before commencing religious rites. This loss underscores the need for increased awareness and preventive measures to avert such tragedies in the future, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-08

Thai Media Associations Demand Action After News Crew Intimidated File photo for reference only The News Broadcasting Council of Thailand and the Broadcasting Journalists Association of Thailand have called on the national police commissioner-general to take legal action against a group of men accused of detaining and intimidating a news crew in Bangkok's Lat Phrao area. The crew from Amarin TV, including a female journalist, was covering a fatal shooting at a mall parking lot during the "Kote Piak" festival. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357166-thai-media-associations-demand-action-after-news-crew-intimidated/

File photo for reference only The News Broadcasting Council of Thailand and the Broadcasting Journalists Association of Thailand have called on the national police commissioner-general to take legal action against a group of men accused of detaining and intimidating a news crew in Bangkok's Lat Phrao area. The crew from Amarin TV, including a female journalist, was covering a fatal shooting at a mall parking lot during the "Kote Piak" festival. According to a joint statement from the associations, the news team was temporarily detained by bodyguards at the scene. The guards allegedly demanded the SIM card from the journalist's smartphone, which had recorded the incident. One guard reportedly threatened to shoot the reporter in the head. The situation was resolved with the arrival of Lat Phrao police, allowing the crew's release. The news team subsequently filed a complaint with the Crime Suppression Division. The media bodies have condemned the incident as an act of intimidation against journalists performing their professional duties. They are urging authorities to investigate and ensure that such threats to media freedom are met with appropriate legal consequences, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-08

Academic Outrage: American Scholar Denied Bail Under Thailand’s Lese Majeste Law Pictures courtesy of Matichon Paul Chambers, a respected American academic from Naresuan University, remains in custody after being denied bail by the Phitsanulok Court on charges of lese majeste, a development causing widespread concern over issues of academic freedom and human rights in Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356887-american-academic-faces-thai-royal-insult-charges-in-legal-storm/#findComment-19718474

Academic Outrage: American Scholar Denied Bail Under Thailand’s Lese Majeste Law Pictures courtesy of Matichon Paul Chambers, a respected American academic from Naresuan University, remains in custody after being denied bail by the Phitsanulok Court on charges of lese majeste, a development causing widespread concern over issues of academic freedom and human rights in Thailand. Dr Chambers, known for his expertise in Southeast Asian military-civilian relations, was arrested following an arrest warrant issued by the Phitsanulok Provincial Court. His detention is linked to accusations of defaming the monarchy and violating the Computer Crime Act by allegedly spreading false information damaging to national security, a complaint raised by the Third Army Region. This arrest has triggered backlash from human rights advocates and Thai politicians, who argue that it poses a threat to freedom of expression and the independence of academia. Sunai Phasuk from Human Rights Watch highlighted the gravity of the situation by questioning Thailand's commitment to democracy and human rights as a member of the UN Human Rights Council. Chetwan Tueprakon of the Prachachon Party also expressed dismay over what he sees as increasing state suppression of academic expression, stating that human rights and academic freedoms are being severely compromised. Dr Chambers, whose research scrutinises the Thai military's influence in politics, was detained without prior notice, focussing attention on the broader implications of his academic work. His arrest highlights the tension between academic inquiry and stringent national security laws in Thailand, specifically regarding lese majeste under Section 112 of the Criminal Code. This law imposes penalties of three to 15 years in prison for defaming or insulting the monarchy. The case raises critical questions about the balance between national security and freedom of speech, particularly in academic contexts, sparking a debate about the future of academic dialogue in Thailand, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-08

Phuket Assault: Outrage Over Release of Suspect After Two Days Photo via Facebook/Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Phuket residents are voicing frustration after local police released a man just two days following his arrest for a violent, unprovoked attack on a foreign woman. The incident, caught on camera and shared by the Phuket Times, happened on April 4 along Thep Kasattri Road. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357165-phuket-assault-outrage-over-release-of-suspect-after-two-days/

Photo via Facebook/Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Phuket residents are voicing frustration after local police released a man just two days following his arrest for a violent, unprovoked attack on a foreign woman. The incident, caught on camera and shared by the Phuket Times, happened on April 4 along Thep Kasattri Road. The video shows the woman standing on the footpath before being approached by a 40-year-old man, who suddenly pulled her hair, punched her, and kicked her to the ground. Bystanders, including a foreign couple and a Thai man, intervened to stop the assault. The man, whose identity remains undisclosed, was arrested by Mueang Phuket Police shortly after the attack. He claimed to have been under the influence of alcohol at the time, although police have not confirmed if his actions were related to mental illness. Outrage grew when locals reported seeing the man freely wandering around Phuket Old Town on April 7, sparking questions about why he was released given the violent nature of his actions. Concerned residents took to social media, questioning safety measures for tourists and the community. Comments highlighted fears about potential future attacks, with some suggesting stricter measures or the establishment of a psychiatric hospital. Residents also questioned the adequacy of current safety protocols, especially in a tourist-heavy locale like Phuket. Police explained that the decision to release the man stemmed from the foreign victim's decision not to press charges. However, this explanation has not quelled public anger and anxiety regarding the assurance of safety in the area, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-08

DSI Launches Probe into Bangkok Building Collapse Amid Corruption Concerns Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has initiated a high-profile investigation into the dramatic collapse of the newly constructed State Audit Office (SAO) building in Chatuchak, Bangkok. The building, worth 2.1 billion baht, crumbled during a 4.1-magnitude earthquake on March 28, trapping workers and raising alarm over potential corruption and substandard construction practices. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357164-dsi-launches-probe-into-bangkok-building-collapse-amid-corruption-concerns/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has initiated a high-profile investigation into the dramatic collapse of the newly constructed State Audit Office (SAO) building in Chatuchak, Bangkok. The building, worth 2.1 billion baht, crumbled during a 4.1-magnitude earthquake on March 28, trapping workers and raising alarm over potential corruption and substandard construction practices. The project was led by China Railway Number 10 (Thailand) Ltd, with 49% ownership by a Chinese company and 51% by Thai nationals Sophon Meechai, Prachuab Sirikhate, and Manas Sri-anan. While not yet labelled as suspects, these shareholders are under scrutiny for their roles in the project. DSI spokesperson Police Major Woranan Srilam has encouraged them to cooperate with the investigation, which also explores possible money laundering and bid-rigging. Recognising the case as a "special investigation," the DSI is collaborating with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and other agencies like the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning, and the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI). This multi-agency effort is crucial as disaster relief operations remain a priority. Investigators are particularly focused on the materials used in construction, with suspicions that substandard steel bars may have contributed to the building’s failure. A detailed report from TISI has been requested to shed light on this aspect. The SAO building’s collapse has severely dented public confidence in major infrastructure projects in Thailand, especially given its status as a government headquarters. As the investigation unfolds, further updates are anticipated, highlighting the critical need to restore trust in building safety standards and accountability within large-scale projects, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-08

Bangkok Building Collapse: Death Toll Rises to 20, Search Intensifies Photo courtesy of TNA Mcot In a tragic update from the collapsed State Audit Office (SAO) building in Chatuchak, Bangkok, four more bodies have been discovered, bringing the death toll from the incident to 20. Currently, 77 individuals remain unaccounted for following the collapse of Zone C. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357163-bangkok-building-collapse-death-toll-rises-to-20-search-intensifies/

Photo courtesy of TNA Mcot In a tragic update from the collapsed State Audit Office (SAO) building in Chatuchak, Bangkok, four more bodies have been discovered, bringing the death toll from the incident to 20. Currently, 77 individuals remain unaccounted for following the collapse of Zone C. The bodies were recovered around 7.45am on April 8, after rescue teams, led by the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, deployed heavy machinery to access a vertical cavity in the debris. Initial efforts had yielded only odours, but subsequent deeper excavation revealed clothing linked to missing persons, aiding in locating the bodies intact beneath the rubble. The complex recovery operation involved specialised equipment and careful coordination among rescue, disaster prevention, and military personnel, navigating the challenging terrain characterised by concrete and debris-filled cavities. The arrival of a large crane, capable of lifting up to 1,000 tonnes, is expected to enhance efforts by moving substantial concrete slabs, hopefully expediting the recovery process. Search operations continue across other zones (A, B, and D) using trained military and police dogs to comb through areas cleared by machinery. Rescue teams mark zones with potential leads, focusing efforts on reaching any remaining trapped individuals. Efforts continue this morning to drill into and expand access around critical areas, especially near the fire escape of Zone C. Coordination for official identification of the bodies is ongoing, involving investigators from Bang Sue Police Station and the forensic team at Police General Hospital. As rescuers race against time, the affected families and the community hold onto hope for the missing amidst challenging conditions, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-08

Foreign Ministry Clarifies Private Meeting Between Thaksin and Modi Picture courtesy of Siam Rath The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maris Sangiampongsa, has clarified the nature of the recent meeting between former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasising that it was a personal encounter rather than an official diplomatic engagement. This clarification follows public speculation suggesting that Thaksin's informal involvement highlights his continued influence over government policies, despite holding no official position. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357162-foreign-ministry-clarifies-private-meeting-between-thaksin-and-modi/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maris Sangiampongsa, has clarified the nature of the recent meeting between former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasising that it was a personal encounter rather than an official diplomatic engagement. This clarification follows public speculation suggesting that Thaksin's informal involvement highlights his continued influence over government policies, despite holding no official position. The meeting took place on April 3, separate from the 6th Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (Bimstec) Summit in Bangkok, which concluded on Friday. Prime Minister Modi's social media post showing him shaking hands with Thaksin drew attention, accompanied by praise for Thaksin's governance experience and friendship with India. Discussions reportedly included mutual cooperation in defence, trade, and culture between India and Thailand. Critics, however, including former MP Thepthai Senpong, have called for more transparency regarding Thaksin's engagements with international leaders. Concerns have been raised over the appearance of official settings, given the display of national flags in the meeting photo, suggesting an unofficial yet notable diplomatic role being played by Thaksin. Senpong urged the government to clarify Thaksin's activities and potential meetings with other leaders during the summit. He proposed that if Thaksin is actively involved in international diplomacy, he should be formally appointed as an advisor, ensuring accountability and parliamentary oversight. As questions linger over the appropriateness of Thaksin’s activities, the government faces growing calls for greater transparency in outlining any unofficial roles he might hold in shaping Thai diplomacy, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-04-08

Broker Extradited from China to Face 14 Billion Baht Fraud Charges Pictures courtesy of Naewna Thai authorities have successfully extradited Thitiporn Chalermrattanaprateep, a broker implicated in the Doctor Boon Vanasin network, from China to face charges of fraud totalling over 14 billion baht. Thitiporn was detained at Suvarnabhumi International Airport upon arrival on April 7 after fleeing to Guangzhou, China. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357161-broker-extradited-from-china-to-face-14-billion-baht-fraud-charges/

Pictures courtesy of Naewna Thai authorities have successfully extradited Thitiporn Chalermrattanaprateep, a broker implicated in the Doctor Boon Vanasin network, from China to face charges of fraud totalling over 14 billion baht. Thitiporn was detained at Suvarnabhumi International Airport upon arrival on April 7 after fleeing to Guangzhou, China. Her arrest is part of a larger investigation overseen by Police Lieutenant General Samran Nualma, following numerous complaints against Dr Boon Vanasin and his associates for public fraud involving the misuse of cheques. The fraudulent activities revolved around money borrowing, with damages nearly reaching 15 billion baht. The Criminal Court had issued arrest warrants for 16 suspects, including Dr Boon, whose alleged fraudulent activities have drawn significant public and police scrutiny. Thitiporn is among the 13 already captured, while Dr Boon and two others had previously fled the country, prompting Interpol to issue red notices. Through coordination with the Chinese Ministry of Public Security, Thai police ensured Thitiporn's apprehension in Guangzhou on March 31. Upon her return, Thai officials handed her over to the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) for prosecution. The case, classified as a special investigation under case No. 136/2567 by the DSI, continues to unfold. Authorities persist in their efforts to locate and bring the remaining fugitives to justice, reinforcing Thailand’s stance against large-scale financial fraud, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-08