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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. Travelers need to complete the online form up to three days before arriving, providing passport details, flight information, and hotel address. The site is live and mandatory - no card, no entry. According to an Immigration Bureau spokesperson, this move is part of Thailand's effort to become a "Smart Tourism Destination" by speeding up border checks and improving data collection. To ease the transition, multilingual guides and videos are available, though some Brits find the process cumbersome. This change coincides with the indefinite delay of the 300 baht tourist tax and the visa-free Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system originally planned for December 2024. Thailand's tourism sector is currently under pressure. The Bank of Thailand reported a 14% drop in visitor numbers and a nearly 10% decrease in tourist spending in February. The situation worsened after a 7.7 magnitude earthquake on March 28, which hit Bangkok, causing a tower collapse that left 81 workers missing. Rescue efforts continue with international aid. The recent quake led to a surge in holiday cancellations, especially among Chinese tourists, prompting officials to reevaluate their tourism strategies for 2025. So, if you're planning a trip to Thailand, be prepared for some potential hurdles along with your holiday, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-04

Rugby Rising Star Bailey Hayward Breaks Family's Dark Past Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail Bailey Hayward, a name now echoing through the Australian National Rugby League, is making proud strides as a 23-year-old halfback for the Canterbury Bulldogs. While he's celebrated on the field today, his family's history tells a tale of both sporting excellence and past turmoil. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356818-rugby-rising-star-bailey-hayward-breaks-familys-dark-past/

Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail Bailey Hayward, a name now echoing through the Australian National Rugby League, is making proud strides as a 23-year-old halfback for the Canterbury Bulldogs. While he's celebrated on the field today, his family's history tells a tale of both sporting excellence and past turmoil. Bailey’s grandfather, Paul Hayward, was a standout player for the Newtown Jets and an Olympic-level boxer until his promising career was cut short by a drug smuggling scandal. In 1978, he was arrested in Bangkok with 8.4 kilograms of heroin, landing him a 20-year sentence in the infamous Bang Kwang prison, also known as the "Bangkok Hilton." Paul was entangled with notorious criminal Neddy Smith, who was revealed by a fellow inmate to have masterminded the heroin deal. Paul eventually received a royal pardon after spending 11 grueling years locked up, but sadly passed away in 1992 from a heroin overdose. Bailey, aware of his family's history, aims to rewrite it. Since his NRL debut in 2024, he has shown talent, humility, and determination. He excelled in the Jersey Flegg competition and represented Scotland in the Rugby League World Cup. His leadership skills were apparent even before stepping onto the NRL field, earning unanimous recognition during a 2023 pre-season bootcamp. Bailey stepped up as a five-eighth in recent games, showing defensive prowess and composure. His journey to the NRL wasn’t straightforward; at 18, he walked away briefly, working as a surveyor, before returning to his passion for rugby. His sister, Paige Hayward, echoes the family's sporting spirit, making a name in the A-League Women soccer after a successful U.S. college career. Bailey's story is one of resilience. Even as his grandmother Gail raised three children alone during Paul's imprisonment, her strength played a crucial role in Bailey's upbringing. Now, he’s determined to uplift the Hayward name, turning a troubled legacy into one of hope and triumph. Canterbury legend Josh Reynolds admires Bailey's contributions, emphasizing the club's renewed focus on local talent and character. As the Hayward name shines on the rugby field once again, it stands as a testament to resilience and new beginnings, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-04

Ghost Tower Defies Odds: Bangkok's Abandoned Icon Survives Quake File photo for reference only The Sathorn Unique Tower, a 49-storey structure left in limbo for over thirty years, has become an unexpected symbol of resilience. Surviving a dramatic 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar on March 28, it remains intact despite shockwaves striking regions as far as Bangkok, located over 1,000 kilometres from the epicentre. While the tremors wreaked havoc, including the collapse of a building under construction in the city, the Ghost Tower stands unmarked, sparking global intrigue. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356817-ghost-tower-defies-odds-bangkoks-abandoned-icon-survives-quake/

File photo. The Sathorn Unique Tower, a 49-storey structure left in limbo for over thirty years, has become an unexpected symbol of resilience. Surviving a dramatic 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar on March 28, it remains intact despite shockwaves striking regions as far as Bangkok, located over 1,000 kilometres from the epicentre. While the tremors wreaked havoc, including the collapse of a building under construction in the city, the Ghost Tower stands unmarked, sparking global intrigue. Originally conceived as a luxurious hub overlooking the Chao Phraya River, the tower fell victim to the 1997 Asian financial crisis, which halted its development. Since then, it became infamous as an eerie landmark, drawing thrill-seekers and urban explorers alike. Social media now burns with speculation, as users express amazement at its endurance and ask why the structure hasn't seen revitalisation. The tower, dubbed the "Ghost Tower", surprised many by withstanding a disaster that wasn't as kind to other constructions. The building's survival raises questions about its structural integrity, leading some to wonder if it might finally see completion. For now, it remains a haunting reminder of Bangkok's past, standing tall against nature's wrath. Only future endeavours will determine if this curious relic might rise from its long shadow, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-04

File photo for reference only The Department of Food Hygiene and Safety, linked to Vietnam's Ministry of Health, has launched an urgent investigation into a suspected methanol poisoning case that left six tourists from Ninh Thuận Province critically ill, with one fatality. The incident unfolded after the victims consumed fruit wine labelled K.T, produced in Tiền Giang Province. The patients were admitted to Chợ Rẫy Hospital in HCM City, where they presented symptoms consistent with methanol poisoning. The Department of Food Hygiene and Safety has requested assistance from HCM City’s Food Hygiene and Safety Department and the Department of Health to ensure effective treatment and recovery of the patients. The department has also coordinated an investigation into the source of the poisoning, including examining the dietary history of the patients. Test results are being collected for analysis by Tiền Giang Province's Department of Health. Ninh Thuận Provincial Health Department is tasked with scrutinizing related food and beverage establishments to gather more data. This collaboration with Tiền Giang's department aims to pinpoint the cause of the poisoning and address any violations of food safety regulations. Authorities intend to publicly disclose findings to warn the community and will halt circulation of the suspected contaminated alcohol. Violations will be strictly penalized. Alongside the investigation, the Department of Food Hygiene and Safety calls for intensified inspections of alcohol production and sales, with a focus on small-scale distilleries, to stop unsafe and unlabelled alcohol from reaching consumers. Public awareness campaigns are also being urged, stressing the need to choose alcohol with traceable origins and standards compliance. Consumers are advised to avoid excessive alcohol consumption and unknown infusions. On March 30, Chợ Rẫy Hospital received six patients, including Đ.T.Đ., T.H.T., P.V.T.B., B.V.Đ., Đ.V.L., and P.N.Q.K., from Cần Giuộc District General Hospital in Long An Province. Two were in comas, needing intensive care. Dr Lê Quốc Hùng of the Tropical Diseases Department confirmed severe methanol poisoning, with dangerously high methanol levels in all patients. Five survived following swift emergency care. Tragically, P.N.Q.K., from Tiền Giang Province, succumbed to complications on Tuesday, despite medical efforts to manage his severe condition, which included multiple organ failure and brain damage. Dr Hùng stressed the importance of choosing quality, traceable alcohol and seeking immediate medical help if symptoms suggestive of methanol poisoning arise after drinking alcohol, reported Vietnam News. -- 2025-04-03

File photo for reference only In a significant corruption case, Nguyen Thanh Binh, the former chairman of An Giang Province, has been sentenced to eight and a half years in prison for accepting a US$300,000 bribe and enabling illegal sand mining. The decision, handed down by the Ho Chi Minh City People's Court, highlights the broader issue of corruption within resource management in Vietnam. Binh was found guilty of directing his subordinates to allow Trung Hau 68 Company to mine sand without the necessary bidding process. This illegal operation resulted in a loss of nearly VND294 billion (approximately $11.47 million) to the province. Le Quang Binh, the company's chairman, was also heavily implicated. He bribed several provincial officials, including paying VND961 million to vice chairman Tran Anh Thu and VND3.1 billion to Nguyen Viet Tri, the director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment. Le Quang Binh received a cumulative 30-year sentence, the maximum term permissible under Vietnamese law short of life imprisonment. His charges included bribery, violation of resource exploitation regulations, and money laundering. The scandal erupted after it was discovered that the An Giang Province people's committee had issued Trung Hau 68 a license to mine 300,000 cubic meters of sand between March 2022 and July 2023. Despite failing to meet the conditions for increased mining, Nguyen Thanh Binh directed an amendment to this license, allowing the company to exploit 1.5 million cubic meters over two years for infrastructure projects. However, Le Quang Binh exploited over 5 million cubic meters, exceeding the licensed amount, and leased the mines to other businesses. The illicit profits were used to acquire properties in Ho Chi Minh City and southern provinces, as well as luxury vehicles like the Mercedes S450 and Lexus 570. This case underscores ongoing challenges in managing Vietnam's natural resources and the necessary legal and societal measures required to combat corruption effectively, reported VN Express. -- 2025-04-03

File photo for reference only Vietnam has temporarily stopped issuing international driving permits (IDPs) online until June as part of a system upgrade. Previously, drivers could easily obtain IDPs through an online portal managed by the Ministry of Transport for a fee of VND135,000 (US$5.26). The administrative changes in March transferred the service to the Ministry of Public Security, leading to the closure of the old portal. Currently, the new online portal, managed by the traffic police department, only processes domestic driving licenses. The Ministry of Public Security is aiming to resume online IDP services by June. In the meantime, those requiring an international driving permit must apply in person at designated traffic police offices located in cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Tay Ninh, Nghe An, Dong Nai, Ba Ria-Vung Tau, and Thanh Hoa. IDPs enable holders to legally drive in 86 countries under the 1968 Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, mostly across Asia and Europe. They are essential for those planning to travel abroad by car, reported VN Express. -- 2025-04-03

File photo for reference only The US State Department has approved a potential sale of 20 F-16 fighter jets to the Philippines, valued at $5.58 billion. This deal aims to bolster the security of a strategic partner in Southeast Asia. The proposed purchase, which awaits finalization, includes 16 F-16C Block 70/72 jets and four F-16B Block 70/72 fighters, alongside a comprehensive package of engines, radars, and munitions. While the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Department of National Defense (DND) have not confirmed the transaction, DND Assistant Secretary Arsenio Andolong stated they have not received official notice. AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla reiterated their ongoing commitment to national defense. This announcement follows a visit by US defense chief Pete Hegseth to Manila. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of the potential sale, emphasizing the strategic importance of enhancing the security partnership with the Philippines. This move is part of the US's broader effort to support political stability and economic progress in Southeast Asia. The package consists of 24 engines, 22 AESA radars, and a variety of armaments, including AIM-120C-8 missiles and Guided Bomb Unit-39/B bombs. These additions are expected to significantly enhance the Philippine Air Force's capabilities in maritime domain awareness, air defense suppression, and aerial interdiction. Despite these enhancements, the State Department assured that the delivery would not alter the regional military balance. The Philippine Air Force is anticipated to integrate these assets effectively into their existing forces. Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr., along with US defense chief Hegseth, discussed strengthening military deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region, including potential deployments and training enhancements. Ahead of Hegseth's visit, the US committed $500 million to modernize the Philippine military, focusing on advanced weapons systems, bilateral training, and cyber campaigns, reinforcing their alliance in countering regional threats, reported PhilStar. -- 2025-04-03

File photo for reference only The Philippine Stock Exchange index (PSEi) experienced a significant drop, closing 101.95 points lower at 6,145.73, following the U.S. announcement of increased tariffs on Philippine products. This 1.63 percent decline was primarily attributed to a knee-jerk reaction in the market, heavily impacting the Services sector, while the Miners benefitted from a surge in gold purchases as investors sought safe havens. Trading volume was notably lower, with 1.35 billion shares exchanged, valued at ₱4.62 billion. The market saw more losers than gainers, with 125 shares declining compared to 71 advancing, and 54 remaining unchanged. Regina Capital Development Corporation's Managing Director, Luis Limlingan, commented that Philippine shares were sold off after a period of stability in anticipation of U.S. President Trump's tariff measures. The White House indicated that the levies would be imposed immediately following a 4 p.m. ET announcement, though specific details were pending, contributing to global market uncertainty. Bloomberg reported that the administration was still finalising the tariff levels. Philstocks Financial Research Manager Japhet Tantiangco noted that the local market's decline was a response to the U.S.'s latest tariff announcement, which included a 17 percent tariff on the Philippines. This move dampened investor sentiment concerning the global economy due to the anticipated negative repercussions of these reciprocal tariffs, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-04-03

File photo for reference only The Philippine government has taken a significant step to combat the nation's learning crisis by establishing Child Development Centres (CDCs) in low-income regions. This initiative underlines the Marcos administration's commitment to ensuring every Filipino learner has access to quality education. On 3rd April, the Second Congressional Commission on Education (EDCOM II) praised the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Department of Education (DepEd) for their joint circular. This action operationalises President Marcos' directive to prioritise the construction of CDCs in 328 low-income local government units (LGUs). Funding for the initiative will come from the Local Government Support Fund – Financial Assistance to LGUs (LGSF-FA) outlined in the Fiscal Year 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA). This move directly responds to EDCOM II’s findings, highlighting the lack of access to early childhood care and development (ECCD) services in 5,800 barangays across the country. EDCOM II Executive Director Karol Mark Yee emphasised the importance of investing in early childhood development, stating it reduces school dropout rates and boosts future achievement and income. Current participation in early childhood education services stands at only 21% for children aged 3 to 4, and even less for those aged 0 to 2. The disparity in accessing ECCD is exacerbated by income inequalities among LGUs, with lower-income areas lacking the special education funds (SEF) of wealthier municipalities. The existing funding model shows first-class municipalities earning 68 times more SEF income than their sixth-class counterparts. The initiative requires LGUs to submit funding requests, which the DepEd will evaluate and endorse to the DBM for final approval. EDCOM II co-chairmen, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian and Pasig Rep. Roman Romulo, expressed strong support for the move. "This is a crucial step to give our children a strong foundation to succeed," Gatchalian said, while Romulo highlighted the President’s advocacy for strengthening the education system's foundations. By prioritising early years' investment, the government aims to ensure future generations thrive, truly leaving no Filipino learner behind, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-04-03

Australian Woman Found Guilty of Modern Slavery in Thai Sex Trafficking Case Photo of Rungnapha (right) courtesy of AAP Image via Daily Mail UK In a harrowing case of modern slavery, 63-year-old Sydney resident Rungnapha Kanbut has been found guilty of enslaving two Thai women, forcing them into sex work under oppressive conditions. The verdict was delivered by a jury at the Downing Centre Court on 1st April, marking a significant moment for Australia’s Thai community and human rights advocates. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356702-australian-woman-found-guilty-of-modern-slavery-in-thai-sex-trafficking-case/

Photo of Rungnapha (right) courtesy of AAP Image via Daily Mail UK In a harrowing case of modern slavery, 63-year-old Sydney resident Rungnapha Kanbut has been found guilty of enslaving two Thai women, forcing them into sex work under oppressive conditions. The verdict was delivered by a jury at the Downing Centre Court on 1st April, marking a significant moment for Australia’s Thai community and human rights advocates. Rungnapha faced six severe charges, including exercising ownership over a slave and dealing with criminal proceeds exceeding 10,000 Australian dollars. The court was presented with chilling accounts of how the victims were trafficked to Australia, coerced into prostitution, and deprived of their freedom. During 2004 and 2005, the two Thai women, whose identities are withheld for legal protection, were forced to live with Rungnapha and her husband. Upon arrival, Rungnapha confiscated their passports and imposed a fictitious debt of 45,000 Australian dollars. The women were made to work 12-hour shifts daily in brothels to "repay" this fabricated debt. This conviction follows a previous 2019 guilty verdict, which resulted in Rungnapha receiving a sentence of over eight years. However, it was overturned in December 2022 by the NSW Court of Criminal Appeals due to issues with jury instructions about Rungnapha's alleged criminal inclinations. A retrial was subsequently ordered, with Rungnapha released on bail. The retrial, not without drama, saw two jurors dismissed for misconduct. One attempted to smuggle a knife into court under the pretext of slicing fruit, while the other breached conduct by trying to socialize with the judge's associate outside court. Despite these incidents, Judge James Bennett decided the trial would continue with 10 jurors, assuring there was “no risk of a substantial miscarriage of justice.” Rungnapha faces sentencing on 13th June, with calls for a stringent penalty reflecting the severity of her crimes. This case underscores critical issues surrounding human trafficking and the exploitation of vulnerable women through debt bondage and false immigration promises, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-03

Massive Raid in Bang Lamung Uncovers Illegal Warehouse of Risky Goods A dramatic raid conducted in the Bang Lamung district has revealed a massive warehouse brimming with illegal items, including hazardous dietary supplements, counterfeit weapons, and unapproved pharmaceuticals. The operation took place at 3 pm on 2nd April, under the leadership of District Chief Patcharapat Sritanyanon, Police Colonel Sarawut Nuchanart of Bang Lamung Police, and Pol. Col. Napasphong Khositsuriyamanee from the Chon Buri Immigration Office. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356700-massive-raid-in-bang-lamung-uncovers-illegal-warehouse-of-risky-goods/

A dramatic raid conducted in the Bang Lamung district has revealed a massive warehouse brimming with illegal items, including hazardous dietary supplements, counterfeit weapons, and unapproved pharmaceuticals. The operation took place at 3 pm on 2nd April, under the leadership of District Chief Patcharapat Sritanyanon, Police Colonel Sarawut Nuchanart of Bang Lamung Police, and Pol. Col. Napasphong Khositsuriyamanee from the Chon Buri Immigration Office. The 400-square-meter facility, suspected of being a hub for illegal Chinese imports, was raided with the assistance of public health officials and undercover police officers. Located in Village 7, Bang Lamung, the warehouse was stocked with various items, including cosmetics, pet supplies, home decor, electronics, dietary supplements, and imitation weapons like fake guns, brass knuckles, and nunchucks. Most goods were believed to be imported from China without proper documentation. Upon entry, officers found one Chinese national, Lin Chen, aged 32, alongside one Thai man and two Thai women, packaging goods for shipment. The workers failed to provide legal import papers, leading to the confiscation of all items for further examination. Lin Chen, identified as the warehouse caretaker, claimed he was employed by an unnamed Chinese employer who recently returned to China. He detailed that the goods arrived by cargo ship and were marketed through livestreams and online channels. Preliminary inspections indicated many products posed significant health risks, as they were not approved by Thailand's Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The imitation weapons' realistic nature also generated legal concerns. All involved individuals, including Lin and the Thai employees, have been detained for further questioning. The investigation is actively pursuing the real owners of this illicit operation. If convicted, those responsible face severe penalties under Thai law, with authorities committed to dismantling such operations to ensure public safety, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-03

Missing Tsunami Warning Towers in Phuket Spark Safety Concerns File photo for reference only Thitikan Thitipruethikul, a People's Party (PP) MP for Phuket, has raised serious concerns over the unexplained removal of two tsunami warning towers in Thalang district. Thitikan urged the House Committee on Natural and Public Disasters Prevention and Mitigation (NPDPM) to investigate the disappearance of towers WH09 on Mai Khao Beach and WH10 on Le Phang Beach, which were found missing during a site visit on 12th December. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356699-missing-tsunami-warning-towers-in-phuket-spark-safety-concerns/

File photo for reference only Thitikan Thitipruethikul, a People's Party (PP) MP for Phuket, has raised serious concerns over the unexplained removal of two tsunami warning towers in Thalang district. Thitikan urged the House Committee on Natural and Public Disasters Prevention and Mitigation (NPDPM) to investigate the disappearance of towers WH09 on Mai Khao Beach and WH10 on Le Phang Beach, which were found missing during a site visit on 12th December. Phuket governor Sophon Suwannarat later clarified that the towers were dismantled for repairs, with plans to return the Mai Khao tower to its original location and relocate the Le Phang tower to Phang Nga province. Despite this explanation, Thitikan questioned why the Le Phang Beach tower, crucial due to high tourist traffic, could not be reinstated. The MP also expressed concerns over missing tsunami buoys in the Andaman Sea, some of which have been non-operational for over a year, and stressed the need for state agencies to ensure these safety installations are promptly reinstalled and maintained. Prasertpong Sornnuwat, a fellow PP MP from Krabi, supported these concerns, highlighting issues with non-functional warning towers and buoys in his own area. Both MPs underscored the importance of transparent communication with the public to alleviate confusion and anxiety over these vital safety measures. Rapassorn Niyamosatha, vice-chair of the NPDPM committee, assured that the issues would be addressed. He emphasised enhancing the use of existing tsunami buoys and ensuring effective disaster response systems are in place to protect the public. This situation underscores the critical importance of maintaining and communicating essential safety infrastructure, especially in regions prone to natural disasters, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-04-03

Six Chinese Nationals Arrested for Illegal Work in Phuket Construction Bust Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Hotnews In a recent sweep targeting illegal employment, police apprehended six Chinese nationals at a construction site in Phuket on Tuesday. The operation, conducted by officers from Patong Police Station, also resulted in the arrest of their Thai employer, reported to the public on 2nd April. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356697-six-chinese-nationals-arrested-for-illegal-work-in-phuket-construction-bust/

Phuket Parents Face Charges Over Minors' Involvement in Street Racing Following a police operation targeting illegal street racing in Ao Yon, Wichit, on 1st April, parents of 14 minors apprehended during the raid are now facing legal consequences. Wichit Police Chief Somsak Thongkliang announced the charges against the parents under Section 26(3) of the Child Protection Act 2003, which prohibits allowing children to engage in inappropriate or wrongful behaviour. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356696-phuket-parents-face-charges-over-minors-involvement-in-street-racing/

Following a police operation targeting illegal street racing in Ao Yon, Wichit, on 1st April, parents of 14 minors apprehended during the raid are now facing legal consequences. Wichit Police Chief Somsak Thongkliang announced the charges against the parents under Section 26(3) of the Child Protection Act 2003, which prohibits allowing children to engage in inappropriate or wrongful behaviour. The Act stipulates penalties for violators, which can include up to three months in prison, a fine not exceeding 30,000 baht, or both. The crackdown, initiated due to persistent disturbances caused by youth street racing gangs after 10 pm, aimed to address public safety concerns. During the raid, police seized nine illegally modified motorcycles. This operation is part of ongoing efforts to curb unlawful activities and improve traffic discipline in problem areas such as Laem Dinso and Ao Yon. Under the guidance of Region 8 Police Commander Surapong Thanomchit and Phuket Provincial Police Commander Sinlert Sukhum, the campaign against teenage street racing continues to extend its reach. Chief Somsak emphasised the importance of parental awareness and intervention in preventing repeat offences. "We are committed to ensuring that parents are informed of their children's actions and encourage steps to prevent future occurrences," stated Chief Somsak. The police are also actively gathering intelligence on local gangs to preempt further incidents and support ongoing investigations. This effort includes arresting offenders and seizing vehicles used in these activities, ensuring a comprehensive approach to tackling juvenile delinquency in the community, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-03

Tragic Collision Near Phuket Airport Claims Two Lives Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News A devastating accident on the main approach to Phuket International Airport claimed the lives of two individuals early on 2nd April. The fatal incident involved a motorbike with a sidecar and a commercial passenger van on Route 4026, a key road linking Thepkrasattri Road to the airport. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356695-tragic-collision-near-phuket-airport-claims-two-lives/

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News A devastating accident on the main approach to Phuket International Airport claimed the lives of two individuals early on 2nd April. The fatal incident involved a motorbike with a sidecar and a commercial passenger van on Route 4026, a key road linking Thepkrasattri Road to the airport. The collision occurred around 9.30 am, with emergency services quickly arriving at the scene. The van, a silver Toyota, was stopped in the right-hand lane, and the driver, 45-year-old Somporn Sri Sawang, was cooperative with the police on the scene. The victims, Narong Tiangnoi, aged 60, who was riding a blue Honda Dream with a sidecar, and his 68-year-old passenger Ma-ae Udomlak, were travelling eastbound toward Thepkrasattri Road when the accident occurred. Despite being promptly transported to Thalang Hospital, both succumbed to their injuries. Thalang Police are working with witnesses and investigators to reconstruct the events leading up to the crash. Initial tests conducted on the van driver showed no evidence of intoxication, aiding in clarifying the circumstances of the collision. As the investigation unfolds, officials are collecting additional evidence and testimonies to better understand the factors contributing to this tragedy. Meanwhile, local authorities are urging all drivers to exercise increased caution, particularly in high-traffic areas such as those around Phuket International Airport. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety, especially in busy zones, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-03

Phuket Gears Up for Safe Songkran with Crackdown on Road Dangers Picture of Songkran celebrations in Phuket last year courtesy of Aleenta As the Songkran festival approaches, Phuket officials are taking urgent steps to prevent road accidents, targeting drink-driving, reckless rentals, and helmet-less bikers. At a crucial meeting on 2nd April, led by Vice Governor Adul Chuthong and disaster chief Wichit Sutthaso, strategies for heightened safety were discussed. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356694-phuket-gears-up-for-safe-songkran-with-crackdown-on-road-dangers/

Picture of Songkran celebrations in Phuket last year courtesy of Aleenta As the Songkran festival approaches, Phuket officials are taking urgent steps to prevent road accidents, targeting drink-driving, reckless rentals, and helmet-less bikers. At a crucial meeting on 2nd April, led by Vice Governor Adul Chuthong and disaster chief Wichit Sutthaso, strategies for heightened safety were discussed. Statistics from past years revealed alarming figures: 72% of accidents involved alcohol, and 80% of injured motorcyclists were not wearing helmets. These insights prompted a comprehensive review of road safety measures, particularly from the 2025 new year period, underscoring the need for stricter enforcement and public education. Authorities introduced the Phuket Road Accident Prevention and Reduction Operation Center, launching the "Driving Safely, Thailand Without Accidents" campaign. The hard-hitting "Seven Days of Danger" will run from April 11-17, coinciding with the peak of festival travel. Round-the-clock checkpoints will be set up across Phuket, supported by community patrols and increased traffic enforcement. A key focus is on rental bike and car operations, notorious for involving tourists unfamiliar with local driving conditions. Enhanced renter screening and stricter regulations for rental firms are on the agenda. To mitigate traffic chaos, transport operators are asked to limit large truck movements during the festival. Bus drivers will face extra monitoring, while motorists are urged to ensure their vehicles are travel-ready. Addressing ongoing roadworks, officials committed to fast-tracking construction projects and implementing temporary safety measures on unfinished roads. With the Songkran road death toll looming, Phuket's government promises heightened vigilance, striving to ensure safer festivities for everyone this year, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-03

Couple Arrested for Stealing Motorcycle in Sukhaphiban 5 Area Picture courtesy of Matichon A Thai man and his Laotian girlfriend have been arrested for allegedly stealing a motorcycle belonging to a delivery rider in the Sukhaphiban 5 area. The suspects, 39-year-old Anukul and 30-year-old Champa, were apprehended by Deputy Inspector Kittikarn Sinprakhop and the Sai Mai Police following a theft complaint. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356692-couple-arrested-for-stealing-motorcycle-in-sukhaphiban-5-area/