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Tourist Sparks Outrage in Phuket Over Throwing Fake Dollar Bills - video Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News A foreign tourist has ignited fury in Phuket after a viral video revealed them tossing counterfeit dollar bills from a moving car, reigniting criticisms of Thailand's visa exemption policy. The incident, suspected to be a social media stunt, unfolded along Yaowarat Road in Samkong. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356835-tourist-sparks-outrage-in-phuket-over-throwing-fake-dollar-bills-video/

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News A foreign tourist has ignited fury in Phuket after a viral video revealed them tossing counterfeit dollar bills from a moving car, reigniting criticisms of Thailand's visa exemption policy. The incident, suspected to be a social media stunt, unfolded along Yaowarat Road in Samkong. The footage, shared on the Facebook page โหดจัง จังหวัดภูเก็ต, shows a grey sedan with a red licence plate scattering the fake bills across prominent spots like Samkong Intersection and Phra Phuket Kaew Road in Kathu. The act drew a mix of bewilderment and anger from locals. One motorcyclist attempted to confront the tourist by tapping on the car window, only for the driver to dismissively roll it up and continue. The one-minute video sparked widespread online condemnation, labelling the act as "mockery" rather than tourism, with netizens frustrated by what they perceive as "low-quality tourists" exploiting Thailand's visa-free entry. Many called for authorities to track down the vehicle and hold the tourist accountable for causing a public nuisance and disrespecting cultural norms. The act not only posed a safety risk but was also seen as demeaning to the local community. While officials have yet to issue a statement or indicate any planned legal action, the event has intensified debate around Thailand's entry policies, especially in tourist hotspots like Phuket. Residents are pressing for a review to ensure visitors respect local laws and customs. Despite some defending the incident as a harmless prank, the overwhelming local sentiment in Phuket is one of frustration, viewing such antics as eroding the community's cultural values and peace. The consequences for the tourist involved remain uncertain, but Phuket's tolerance for such behaviours is clearly dwindling, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-04

Politician's Son Arrested for Girlfriend's Murder in Chai Nat Photo via KomChadLuek and Facebook/ อีซ้อขยี้ข่าว : อีซ้อ In a deeply disturbing case from Chai Nat province, the son of a local politician has been arrested for the murder of his girlfriend, 18-year-old Natnicha, known as Focus. The arrest followed the discovery of Focus's body in a rice field, found by the landowner, marking the tragic culmination of a violent dispute. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356834-politicians-son-arrested-for-girlfriends-murder-in-chai-nat/

Photo via KomChadLuek and Facebook/ อีซ้อขยี้ข่าว : อีซ้อ In a deeply disturbing case from Chai Nat province, the son of a local politician has been arrested for the murder of his girlfriend, 18-year-old Natnicha, known as Focus. The arrest followed the discovery of Focus's body in a rice field, found by the landowner, marking the tragic culmination of a violent dispute. Focus's mother, Jeranan, was summoned to confirm her daughter's identity after the gruesome find on April 3. Focus had suffered a severe head injury, believed to be inflicted by a hard object, before being left in the field. The investigation quickly led officers to Focus’s 19-year-old boyfriend, Noppanat or Frank, after they discovered blood and mud-stained clothing and his motorcycle, as well as Focus's mobile phone, at his home. Despite initial denials from both Frank and his influential politician father, Frank confessed to the crime, attributing it to jealousy and alcohol influence. Reports indicate that Focus had intended to end the relationship, aligning with her mother's advice due to Frank's past behaviours, including posting explicit images online. Despite previous incidents of harassment, Jeranan's attempts to legally distance her daughter from Frank were thwarted by his lack of evidence. Jeranan had hoped to protect her daughter by enrolling her at Kasetsart University in Bangkok, but Focus tragically never reached this new chapter in her life. Determined to seek justice, Jeranan plans to press charges against Frank fully, despite any attempts at influence by his father. The police have assured the family that the case will proceed without political interference, ensuring that justice for Focus will be pursued with integrity, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-04

Politician's Son Killed in Brazen Attack at Market Opening Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A shocking daylight shooting at the grand opening of Ton Sai Market in Samut Prakan has left a politician's son dead and two others injured. The violent incident unfolded around midday on April 4, during a Chinese banquet intended to celebrate the market launch. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356833-politicians-son-killed-in-brazen-attack-at-market-opening/

Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A shocking daylight shooting at the grand opening of Ton Sai Market in Samut Prakan has left a politician's son dead and two others injured. The violent incident unfolded around midday on April 4, during a Chinese banquet intended to celebrate the market launch. The tranquillity of the event was shattered when a gunman, known only as Mr Bird, opened fire, reportedly discharging nearly ten bullets. The ensuing chaos saw attendees scrambling for safety amidst tables abandoned mid-celebration. Phra Pradaeng police officers arrived swiftly, discovering the young man dead at the scene and two others, including one critically injured with a head wound, urgently transported to the hospital. Vehicles in the vicinity, including a bullet-peppered black Toyota Camry and a damaged pickup truck, bore witness to the brutal attack, as police secured the scene and collected at least eight spent bullet casings for forensic examination. The suspect, believed to be around 30 years old, immediately fled the scene. However, police confirm they are closing in on his whereabouts. Initial investigations suggest a prolonged feud linked to the market caretaker’s subordinates sparked the attack. The deceased victim was the son of Kamnan Khao, a significant local political figure affiliated with the Bang Krachao Subdistrict Administrative Organisation. As authorities pursue the suspect and aim to uncover deeper motives behind the attack, the market's grand opening, anticipated as a communal celebration, remains marred by the memory of violence and loss, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-04

Entertainment Complex Bill Set for Parliament Review on April 9 Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The much-debated Entertainment Complex Bill is slated for parliamentary discussion, likely on April 9, as confirmed by Chief Government Whip Wisut Chainarun. This bill, aimed at bolstering Thailand's economy by enhancing tourism beyond its seasonal peaks, received Cabinet approval on March 27. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356831-entertainment-complex-bill-set-for-parliament-review-on-april-9/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The much-debated Entertainment Complex Bill is slated for parliamentary discussion, likely on April 9, as confirmed by Chief Government Whip Wisut Chainarun. This bill, aimed at bolstering Thailand's economy by enhancing tourism beyond its seasonal peaks, received Cabinet approval on March 27. Wisut, a Pheu Thai list-MP, updated on March 30 that while Parliament awaits official submission, preparations are being made to ensure ample debate time. Coalition support seems probable, though dialogue with the opposition remains pending. Endorsement from Phuket's tourism sector underscores the bill's potential to invigorate the local economy. Phuket Tourist Association President Thanet Tantipiriyakit advocates for world-class amenities, like water parks or cultural centres, that could appeal to families, as opposed to casinos, which may deter family-oriented travellers. Tourists currently visit Phuket for 5-8 days, primarily attracted by the beaches. Thanet suggests that an entertainment complex without a primary focus on gambling could extend visitor stays and spending. The government's initiative envisions facilities like concert halls, indoor sports arenas, and water parks, with casinos comprising only 10% of the infrastructure. The proposed development could generate 119 to 283 billion baht annually and attract 5-10% more foreign visitors. However, not all feedback is positive. Political activist Jatuporn Prompan, at a March 29 protest, cautioned that legitimising gambling might increase crime and societal issues. A monk sermonising on gambling's drawbacks was notably directed at the Cabinet on April 1. As the Parliament prepares to review the bill, discussions will balance economic aspirations with potential social impacts, aiming for a diversified, sustainable tourism model, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-04

Thai Steel Firm Under Investigation for Massive Tax Fraud Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A major Thai steel company, Xin Ke Yuan Company Limited, is at the centre of a significant criminal investigation after allegedly forging over 7,000 fake tax invoices, resulting in a tax scam exceeding 200 million baht. This week, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) launched a full-scale probe into what could be one of Thailand's most substantial tax fraud cases in recent years. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356830-thai-steel-firm-under-investigation-for-massive-tax-fraud/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A major Thai steel company, Xin Ke Yuan Company Limited, is at the centre of a significant criminal investigation after allegedly forging over 7,000 fake tax invoices, resulting in a tax scam exceeding 200 million baht. This week, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) launched a full-scale probe into what could be one of Thailand's most substantial tax fraud cases in recent years. On April 3, officials from Regional Revenue Office 3 filed a formal complaint at the DSI headquarters against the company. It is accused of manipulating financial records from July 2015 to March 2017 to illegitimately claim tax credits, a serious violation of Thailand’s Revenue Code. DSI chief Police Colonel Yuthana Phaedam has appointed Lieutenant Colonel Surawut Rangsai to lead the investigation. Under Thailand’s Special Investigation Act of 2004 and supported by a Ministry of Finance announcement, this case qualifies for special handling, allowing the DSI to prosecute under Section 90/4. The investigation also intersects with ongoing regulatory crackdowns following a nearby building collapse, suggesting a broader effort to address financial misconduct in the district. An insider revealed that the scale of financial damage is enormous, prompting expedited action to grant this case special status. This allows the DSI to allocate more resources to ensure thorough investigation and prosecution. As investigators delve into Xin Ke Yuan’s financial practices, the company faces mounting legal challenges. The steel giant might soon be contending with severe legal repercussions as authorities aim to deter similar offences and uphold fiscal responsibility in the business sector, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-04

Substandard Steel Likely in Collapsed Thai Government Building File photo for reference only Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has acknowledged suspicions that substandard steel may have contributed to the collapse of the State Audit Office (SAO) building during last Friday's earthquake. Speaking on the progress of the ongoing investigation, she highlighted concerns over the steel used in the building's construction. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356826-substandard-steel-likely-in-collapsed-thai-government-building/

File photo for reference only Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has acknowledged suspicions that substandard steel may have contributed to the collapse of the State Audit Office (SAO) building during last Friday's earthquake. Speaking on the progress of the ongoing investigation, she highlighted concerns over the steel used in the building's construction. The Ministry of Industry has conducted tests on steel samples from the collapsed site, revealing two substandard types measuring 20mm and 32mm, both from the same source. In light of these findings, a meeting is planned to delve deeper into the investigation, either today or early next week. Industry Minister Akanat Promphan announced further inspections, carried out with a government-appointed fact-finding committee. This includes collaboration with the Department of Public Works and Town Planning, as well as police, focusing on potential structural weaknesses suggested by the contractor's blueprints. In addition to construction materials, the collapse has led to questions about the project’s budget and safety measures. Teerajchai Phunthumas of the People's Party stated that the Auditor-General will be called to explain the victim compensation process and the costly project budget. The tragedy left 15 confirmed dead and many missing, prompting Mr. Teerajchai to also involve the Council of Engineers and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Industry. They will be tasked with clarifying the construction processes and procurement of materials used. Originally approved in 2020 with a budget exceeding 2 billion baht, the SAO building was supposed to be completed by 2023 but was delayed by more than a year. The collapse has heightened public concerns over the structural integrity of government buildings, given the investment and alleged standards that should have been met. As the investigation unfolds, officials aim to determine the exact causes and ensure accountability, as well as safeguard future projects from similar failures, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-04-04

Treasury Offers Rent Relief to Earthquake-Affected Tenants Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Treasury Department announced vital financial support for tenants impacted by the March 28 earthquake in Thailand. As per Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul, rent waivers are now available for those leasing state land in the affected regions, including Bangkok and 18 other provinces. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356825-treasury-offers-rent-relief-to-earthquake-affected-tenants/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Treasury Department announced vital financial support for tenants impacted by the March 28 earthquake in Thailand. As per Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul, rent waivers are now available for those leasing state land in the affected regions, including Bangkok and 18 other provinces. This measure aims to alleviate the financial strain on individuals whose properties were damaged by the disaster. Rent waivers of up to one year are offered for severely damaged properties, and up to six months for those with moderate damage. This applies to tenants of both residential and other state lands, provided the Ministry of Finance doesn't hold property rights. For state-owned lands where the Ministry retains property rights, similarly generous rent relief is extended. Severely damaged buildings can benefit from a year-long waiver, while moderately damaged ones are eligible for up to three months. Tenants with agreements to build on rented state lands can also apply under these guidelines. Severe damage allows for a year-long rent waiver, with a six-month waiver for moderate damage cases. To benefit from this relief, tenants must submit certified proof of property damage by April 30. The Department of Public Works and Town and Country Planning will validate claims to ensure only those genuinely affected will receive the aid. This initiative is a direct response to the earthquake's disruption, easing fiscal burdens for impacted tenants and helping them recover more smoothly from the disaster, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-04

Speed King Caught in Online Gambling Bust; Assets Seized Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand's so-called speed king, influencer Ekkachai “Em” Meephrom, has been brought to a screeching halt. Authorities have seized over 50 million baht worth of luxury cars, motorbikes, and high-end goods linked to an alleged online gambling operation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356824-speed-king-caught-in-online-gambling-bust-assets-seized/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand's so-called speed king, influencer Ekkachai “Em” Meephrom, has been brought to a screeching halt. Authorities have seized over 50 million baht worth of luxury cars, motorbikes, and high-end goods linked to an alleged online gambling operation. At a press briefing on April 3, the Technology Crime Suppression Division displayed a lavish haul, including a rare Nissan GTR R34, all reportedly acquired with illicit funds. Em, renowned for his flashy motorbike customisations, was arrested alongside six others on charges of money laundering through gambling websites. Under the Anti-Money Laundering Act, police confiscated an impressive array of assets: 1.47 million baht in cash A Porsche Panamera 4 Mercedes-Benz C200 Isuzu Mu-X and Isuzu ELF 16 high-end superbikes from BMW, Triumph, and Honda Various gold jewellery, designer accessories, religious items, and financial records amounting to 138 items The revelations didn't end there. Following Em's arrest, further flashy vehicles surfaced. Varun, from Auan Racing Co., Ltd., voluntarily surrendered two custom Nissan Skyline R34s, valued at over 10 million baht. Anuwat, from NS 1000 Co., Ltd., handed over three more vehicles, including a custom Isuzu D-Max pick-up and a pricey dragster, bringing these contributions to 16 million baht. In an ongoing crackdown, cyber police in Nakhon Si Thammarat targeted another suspect in an illegal online lottery operation, revealing betting logs and a crucial mobile device. Additionally, three individuals linked to separate fraud networks were apprehended, contributing to financial damage exceeding 3.8 million baht. While investigations into Em's opulent lifestyle and financial dealings continue, the seizure of more than 50 million baht in assets suggests his high-speed pursuits may have finally reached a dead end, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-04

Bank of Thailand Launches Debt Relief and Anti-Fraud Initiative in Phuket Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News To support struggling debtors and fight financial fraud, the Bank of Thailand's Southern Office announced a new initiative, the "You Fight, We Help" programme, in Phuket on April 3. This effort aims at providing essential aid to citizens and small businesses facing financial difficulties and simultaneously addressing the surge in financial crime. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356823-bank-of-thailand-launches-debt-relief-and-anti-fraud-initiative-in-phuket/

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News To support struggling debtors and fight financial fraud, the Bank of Thailand's Southern Office announced a new initiative, the "You Fight, We Help" programme, in Phuket on April 3. This effort aims at providing essential aid to citizens and small businesses facing financial difficulties and simultaneously addressing the surge in financial crime. Senior Director Thatlap Paoleuangthong revealed the programme, which is a collaboration between the Bank of Thailand, the Ministry of Finance, and other partners. It features three major debt relief measures: Pay Directly, Retain Assets: This offers mortgage, car loan, and small business debtors a chance to reduce instalments with a three-year interest payment suspension. Provided conditions are met, payments contribute directly to reducing the principal, and interest will be waived. Pay, Close, Finish: Targeted at non-performing loan holders with debts under 5,000 baht, this allows them to make partial payments to clear outstanding balances. Reduce Instalments, Reduce Interest: For vehicle registration loans and personal finance agreements, debtors can enjoy a three-year reduction in both repayment amounts and interest rates, paying only 70% of the original instalments with a 10% interest rate reduction. Interested parties can find more details and register via the Bank of Thailand’s website or their call centre at 1213. Alongside debt relief, combating financial fraud is a key component of the initiative. The focus is on mule accounts, often used by criminals to launder money. The Bank of Thailand is tightening regulations for opening new accounts to prevent fraudulent activities. Accounts linked to high risks are subject to extended suspensions, while financial institutions must now alert individuals before they transfer funds to suspect mule accounts. Furthermore, authorities are enhancing monitoring of legal entities used to sidestep personal account restrictions. By bolstering registration checks and surveillance of suspicious corporate activities, the programme aims to halt fraud effectively. The initiative not only seeks to alleviate the financial strain on individuals and businesses but also aims to create a safer financial environment in Thailand, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-04

British Man's Urgent Plea to Save Dying Father in Thailand Picture courtesy of The Standard A distraught British man is fighting to bring his critically ill father back from Thailand to the UK for life-saving medical treatment. Reginald Leo, 77, once hoped to enjoy retirement in Pattaya, but a seemingly minor foot wound has escalated into a severe medical crisis. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356822-british-mans-urgent-plea-to-save-dying-father-in-thailand/

Picture courtesy of The Standard A distraught British man is fighting to bring his critically ill father back from Thailand to the UK for life-saving medical treatment. Reginald Leo, 77, once hoped to enjoy retirement in Pattaya, but a seemingly minor foot wound has escalated into a severe medical crisis. Jonathan Leo, who relocated to Thailand in 2017, has sacrificed everything to look after his father, a retired security officer from Milton Keynes, now struggling with diabetes and Addison’s disease. The conditions have left Reginald bedridden, drastically underweight, and potentially facing amputation. Despite Jonathan's desperate appeals for urgent medical intervention, delays from the British Embassy in Bangkok and bureaucratic obstacles linked to the recent Bangkok earthquake have thwarted efforts to secure an emergency medevac. An air ambulance back to the UK could cost between £35,000 and £55,000, an unattainable sum for the family alone. Determined to help his father recover, Jonathan meticulously cares for him daily, managing his bandages and basic needs while witnessing his father’s heart-breaking deterioration. He’s also initiated a crowdfunding campaign in a bid to raise the substantial funds needed to cover the medical transports and treatments. "My priority is my dad's health," says Jonathan, highlighting the urgent need for proper medical evaluations and treatments in the UK. Picture of Jonathan Leo courtesy of The Standard The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office confirmed they are assisting and liaising with local authorities. However, the family’s plight underscores the crucial reliance on compassionate public support to expedite medical attention. To aid their struggle and support Reginald’s hopeful route to recovery, donations can be made on Jonathan’s fundraising page, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-04

Steel Maker Challenges Safety Results Amid Earthquake Probe File photo for reference only Xin Ke Yuan Steel Ltd faces increased scrutiny after rejecting safety test results from the Iron and Steel Institute of Thailand. The tests revealed that their 32mm and 20mm deformed steel bars failed to meet safety standards. These bars were utilised in the construction of a building that collapsed during last Friday's earthquake in Bangkok, drawing attention to potential faults in steel integrity. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356821-steel-maker-challenges-safety-results-amid-earthquake-probe/

File photo for reference only Xin Ke Yuan Steel Ltd faces increased scrutiny after rejecting safety test results from the Iron and Steel Institute of Thailand. The tests revealed that their 32mm and 20mm deformed steel bars failed to meet safety standards. These bars were utilised in the construction of a building that collapsed during last Friday's earthquake in Bangkok, drawing attention to potential faults in steel integrity. The Rayong-based company denies the findings and has requested further testing from the Thailand Automotive Institute. They argue that this institute's lab is better equipped to measure boron levels, a critical factor in steel quality assessments. Authorities are not taking these concerns lightly. Industry Minister Akanat Promphan revealed multiple violations during a December 2024 inspection of Xin Ke Yuan Steel. As a result, operations were suspended, and 2,441 tonnes of steel products worth 50.1 million baht were confiscated in early January. A ministry-led task force visited Xin Ke Yuan's Nong Lalok factory earlier this week to enforce compliance and demand sales records for the confiscated products. Thitipas Chotedechachainan, the task force leader, reminded the company of their obligation to account for their steel's origins and warned of legal repercussions if any barred products were moved or sold illicitly. Though further testing at the Thailand Automotive Institute is permitted, the company initially submitted results from the Iron and Steel Institute for its factory establishment. As the investigation continues, the stakes remain high for Xin Ke Yuan, whose products' compliance—or lack thereof—could have far-reaching implications following the earthquake disaster, reported The Nation. -- 2025-04-04

Thailand Responds to US Trade Tariffs: Seeking Negotiation File photo for reference only In a significant economic development, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra issued a formal statement regarding the United States' latest trade tariffs, particularly impacting Thailand. The US, under President Donald Trump, has implemented a 36% import tariff on Thai goods as part of broader reciprocal trade measures. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356820-thailand-responds-to-us-trade-tariffs-seeking-negotiation/

File photo for reference only In a significant economic development, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra issued a formal statement regarding the United States' latest trade tariffs, particularly impacting Thailand. The US, under President Donald Trump, has implemented a 36% import tariff on Thai goods as part of broader reciprocal trade measures. This new policy, announced during the Liberation Day event, aims to address global trade imbalances by imposing a minimum 10% tariff on all imports, with higher rates for nations like Thailand that run trade surpluses with the US. For Thailand, this marks one of the highest tariff rates among ASEAN countries. Thailand's government expressed an understanding of the US's rationale but emphasised the substantial impact these tariffs will have on US consumer purchasing power as well as Thai exporters. In response, Thailand is actively preparing to reduce dependency on the US market and seek new trading partners. A notable feature of Thailand's response includes a readiness to engage in dialogue with the US to adjust trade balances equitably. Plans are underway for negotiations aimed at minimising impacts on farmers and businesses while promoting joint ventures in high-potential industries. Thailand is also exploring long-term strategic adjustments, such as enhancing competitiveness through production restructuring and cost reduction. This approach is intended to bolster Thailand's role in mutually beneficial investments with the US, looking towards a stable and cooperative economic future. In summary, Thailand is keen on fostering long-term trade stability with the US and is prepared to work collaboratively to mitigate the impacts of these tariffs through constructive negotiations, reported The Nation. -- 2025-04-04

New Online Entry Requirement for UK Travelers to Thailand Picture courtesy of St Albert Gazette UK travelers heading to Thailand next month must be ready for a new digital requirement. Starting May 1, all foreign visitors must register online via the Thailand Digital Entry Card (TDAC) before entering the country. This replaces the paper TM6 arrival slip discontinued in April last year. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356819-new-online-entry-requirement-for-uk-travelers-to-thailand/