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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/

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