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File photo for reference only Indonesia is on the verge of establishing a direct export route for its prized durians to China, currently the world's largest market for the fruit. Until now, Indonesian durians have reached China via Thailand, but with new developments, a direct supply chain is being considered. Central Sulawesi's Parigi Moutong regency is a key player, known for cultivating Monthong durians, a Thai variety. Chinese customs officials recently visited Indonesia to assess plantations and packaging facilities, a step likely geared towards advancing "durian export cooperation." Muhammad Tahir, director of PT Ammar Durian Indonesia, noted the potential reduction in shipping time and costs with direct routes. Shipping directly from Pantoloan port to China could take just one week, significantly less than the current month-long journey via Thailand. Despite optimism, there are challenges. Though Indonesia ranks among the top durian producers globally, with 1.83 million tons produced in 2023, most are consumed domestically. Only a fraction of Central Sulawesi's durian farms meet the stringent export standards required by China, including Good Agricultural and Manufacturing Practices. The perishable nature of durians presents logistical issues, as highlighted by expert Sigit Puruwanto. Proximity to China benefits Thailand and Vietnam, given durians ripen quickly, often within five days. To navigate these hurdles, Indonesia may initially focus on exporting frozen durians, which are more economical and pose fewer safety risks. As part of broader agricultural efforts, the Ministry of Agriculture has identified 422 villages for durian cultivation. Central Sulawesi's governor, Rusdy Mastura, is committed to seizing this opportunity, viewing the Chinese market as a lucrative opportunity for local growers. In 2023, China imported a record 15.6 million tons of durians, valued at US$6.99 billion. Thailand and Vietnam dominate this trade, holding market shares of $4 billion and $2.9 billion, respectively. With strategic enhancements and adherence to export regulations, Indonesia aims to carve out its niche in this thriving market, welcoming a promising chapter for its durian industry, reported VN Express. -- 2025-03-26

File photo for reference only The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has officially recognised the suspension of Marikina City Mayor Marcelino Teodoro and other officials following allegations of misallocating 130 million pesos in PhilHealth funds. The Office of the Ombudsman issued the preventive suspension order, dated March 21, after investigating complaints regarding misuse of funds intended for health improvements. In a formal letter to Marikina City's local government, Atty. Romeo Benitez, DILG's legal and legislative affairs undersecretary, affirmed the suspension order, highlighting the importance of adhering to the prescribed administrative processes to maintain governance integrity. The DILG is prepared to ensure succession procedures are followed as directed by Administrative Order No. 15 and DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2019-21, which allow the DILG chief to fill temporary vacancies in local government offices to prevent operational paralysis. The suspension also extends to several city officials, including City Accountant Erlinda Gutierrez Gonzales, City Treasurer Nerissa Calvez San Miguel, and Assistant City Budget Officer Jason Rodriguez Nepomuceno. Sangguniang Panlungsod members, including Vice Mayor Marion S. Andres, along with several others, were also suspended. The Ombudsman's decision stems from a complaint filed by Marikina resident Sofronio Dulay on May 15, 2024, accusing Teodoro and others of violating Article 220 of the Revised Penal Code and engaging in grave misconduct. Dulay's complaint specifically alleged the misuse of PhilHealth payments under the Universal Health Care Act. As Marikina undergoes this transition, the DILG is committed to supporting the city, ensuring governance remains stable and lawful. The department recognizes the authority of the Acting Mayor and other designated officials to manage the city's affairs during this period, reported Inquirer. -- 2025-03-26

File photo for reference only In Manila, Philippines, House prosecutors have filed a motion to summon Vice President Sara Duterte over impeachment charges, despite Senate President Chiz Escudero stating it "cannot legally be done" while the Senate is in recess. During the Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum on Wednesday, March 26, Escudero explained that impeachment proceedings can only be addressed when the Senate is in session. According to the Rules of Procedure on Impeachment Trials, a writ of summons can only be issued once the Senate receives the articles of impeachment and convenes as an impeachment court. "That cannot be done during recess," Escudero clarified, emphasizing the clear procedural differences between legislative sessions and hearings. The motion, signed by House prosecutor Rep. Marcelino “Nonoy” Libanan as early as March 14, was tactically filed later due to the Senate's break. However, after a recent Senate inquiry into potential actions against former President Rodrigo Duterte, prosecutors believed impeachment proceedings could commence. Escudero acknowledged that both chambers can conduct hearings during recess but reiterated that the Senate will address the motion appropriately. He reminded that the initial transmission of impeachment complaints to the Speaker's Office faced delays and emphasized adhering to legislative procedures over experimental approaches. Meanwhile, the House continues to assert adherence to its constitutional duty to manage impeachment swiftly, considering "reasonable delay" as part of the process. A copy of the motion was sent to VP Duterte’s office in Mandaluyong, while she remains in The Hague aiding former President Duterte in his International Criminal Court defense. Senate proceedings are anticipated to start when Congress resumes in June. Escudero advised prosecutors to prepare thoroughly for the trial expected to begin in June when the Senate plans to present articles of impeachment, convene the impeachment court, and have senator-judges take their oath on June 2 and 3, reported Phil Star. -- 2025-03-26

File photo for reference only As the Philippines transitions from the northeast monsoon to the warm and dry season, six areas have reported alarming heat indices between 42 and 46 degrees Celsius. On Wednesday, March 26, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) recorded these figures, categorising them within the “danger level.” Heat indices from 42°C to 51°C pose significant health risks, including heat cramps, exhaustion, and a heightened chance of heat stroke with prolonged exposure or activity. On this day, Dagupan City in Pangasinan reported the highest index at 46°C, leading the list of affected areas. Other regions experiencing dangerous heat levels include Tuguegarao City in Cagayan (44°C), Butuan City in Agusan del Norte (43°C), and cities like Legazpi in Albay, Virac in Catanduanes, and Pili in Camarines Sur, each recording a heat index of 42°C. PAGASA's declaration of the end of the amihan season marks the onset of elevated temperatures across the country, urging caution and preparation for the warmer months ahead. Residents are advised to take protective measures, such as staying hydrated and avoiding strenuous activities during peak heat periods, to mitigate health risks associated with the rising temperatures, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-03-26

Thai Woman Clones Beloved Dog, Making History in Pet Genetics Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a heartfelt venture blending science and emotion, a 50-year-old animal lover from Ban Pong district, Ratchaburi province, has made history by cloning her cherished French Bulldog. Kanjanrat Sakdigratanasiri, affectionately known as Kai, invested 6 million baht (approximately $176,560) to bring her beloved dog, Pha Phang, back to life through cloning, creating Thailand's first genetically cloned dog. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355880-thai-woman-clones-beloved-dog-making-history-in-pet-genetics/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a heartfelt venture blending science and emotion, a 50-year-old animal lover from Ban Pong district, Ratchaburi province, has made history by cloning her cherished French Bulldog. Kanjanrat Sakdigratanasiri, affectionately known as Kai, invested 6 million baht (approximately $176,560) to bring her beloved dog, Pha Phang, back to life through cloning, creating Thailand's first genetically cloned dog. Pha Phang, a playful and lively five-month-old puppy, shows only slight differences in her left ear compared to the original dog, which passed away due to Canine Cushing’s syndrome. Driven by a profound emotional bond, Kanjanrat sought the expertise of Dr. Supasek Sonjit, Thailand’s pioneering veterinarian in canine cloning, to revive Pha Phang. Before proceeding, Dr. Sonjit questioned Kanjanrat about future care provisions for Pha Phang in the event of her passing. Kanjanrat addressed this by preparing a will to ensure care for Pha Phang and her other 16 dogs. She also showed readiness to face any societal criticism regarding her decision. For Kanjanrat, the expense was not about acquiring another pet but about rekindling a treasured connection. She described Pha Phang as an emotional anchor during hard times, justifying the considerable financial outlay, which could otherwise purchase numerous new dogs. The cloning journey involved extracting cells from Pha Phang and sending them to South Korea, where cloning expert Dr. Hwang Woo Suk cultured them. Initial attempts faced setbacks, as the puppies struggled to breathe independently at birth. Success came on the fifth attempt, culminating a year-long effort and achieving a first in Thai cloning history. The total process cost around 6 million baht, with Dr. Hwang generously waiving the additional genetic engineering fees in admiration of Kanjanrat's devotion to her dog. Upon meeting the cloned Pha Phang, the puppy displayed recognition of Kanjanrat and understood Thai commands, sparking discussions on the retention of memories in cloned animals. Despite potential ethical debates and criticism over her decision, Kanjanrat views cloning as a means of advancing love without harm, asking for respect for her personal choices. The late Pha Phang’s body remains preserved, awaiting a future burial at Kanjanrat's home—a decision that reflects her enduring attachment to her pet and her embrace of scientific possibilities to honour that bond, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-26

Thai Coconut Brand Faces Copycat Controversy in China Photo courtesy of IF Family The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) in Thailand has voiced concerns over a Chinese brand, “TF,” mimicking the popular Thai coconut drink brand “IF.” These imitation products, closely resembling IF in packaging and name, have surfaced across Chinese e-commerce platforms, confusing many consumers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355879-thai-coconut-brand-faces-copycat-controversy-in-china/

Photo courtesy of IF Family The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) in Thailand has voiced concerns over a Chinese brand, “TF,” mimicking the popular Thai coconut drink brand “IF.” These imitation products, closely resembling IF in packaging and name, have surfaced across Chinese e-commerce platforms, confusing many consumers. Though visually similar, consumers have identified distinct differences in taste and ingredients, often describing TF's version as unappealing due to its complex ingredient list. These counterfeit products raise alarms about quality, potentially deterring consumers from purchasing coconut drinks altogether. TF, based in Chenzhou, Hunan province, produces various beverages. The Chenzhou market regulatory agency has ordered the TF factory to resolve the imitation issue, mandating the removal of these products by May 1, 2024. Similar imitations have appeared in regions like Guangxi and Guizhou, with some factories altering names to avoid legal conflicts, using variations such as “1F” or “LF.” Instances of Thai products being copied in China are not new. Given the emerging health trends and the increased popularity of coconut water in China, the IF brand is particularly vulnerable to this tactic. To mitigate such risks, Thai exporters are urged to register their trademarks in China, where fierce market competition often leads to trademark disputes. To protect against counterfeiting, Thai brands should implement strategic measures: Trademark Registration: Secure intellectual property rights in key markets, including China, the US, and the EU, to protect brand elements such as names, logos, and packaging designs. Anti-Counterfeiting Tactics: Introduce tamper-proof labels, QR codes, and unique packaging features to verify product authenticity and complicate imitations. Consumer Education: Utilize official channels, such as websites and social media, to inform consumers about brand distinctions. Collaborate with local distributors to highlight authentic products, fostering trust through brand history and quality assurance narratives. By addressing trademark and intellectual property concerns and adopting comprehensive anti-counterfeiting strategies, Thai businesses can safeguard their brand reputation in international markets, ensuring consumers recognize and trust genuine Thai coconut drinks amidst emerging counterfeit threats, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-26

Thailand's Global Education Ranking Sparks Controversy and Scrutiny Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's education system has become a topic of heated discussion following its placement at 107th out of 203 countries in a global education survey by the World Population Review. This ranking has raised concerns among Thai officials, with some criticising the survey's methodology as misleading. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355878-thailands-global-education-ranking-sparks-controversy-and-scrutiny/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's education system has become a topic of heated discussion following its placement at 107th out of 203 countries in a global education survey by the World Population Review. This ranking has raised concerns among Thai officials, with some criticising the survey's methodology as misleading. Professor Dr Prawit Erawan, Secretary General of the Office of the Education Council (OEC), questioned the survey's credibility. He argued that the rankings rely heavily on subjective opinions from 78 countries instead of objective educational metrics. "These rankings represent perceptions more than actual educational quality," Dr Prawit stated. The report lists Thailand as 8th in Southeast Asia (ASEAN), sparking further debate. Thai education officials highlighted the nation's high literacy rate of approximately 99% for those aged 15 and over, suggesting that such figures should positively impact Thailand's global standing. Dr Prawit criticised the survey's implicit bias towards affluent countries, noting that it unfairly links educational quality directly to economic status. He believes that if literacy were a significant metric, Thailand could potentially lead the ASEAN rankings. Acknowledging the survey's perceived flaws, Dr Prawit called for improvements in Thailand's educational database to provide a clearer representation in future global assessments. "An accurate, up-to-date database is crucial for ensuring that our education system's quality is represented correctly in global rankings," he added. Despite these critiques, Dr Prawit conceded that there remains a strong linkage between educational quality and societal progress. While he recognises existing disparities, he remains optimistic, suggesting that improvements in Thailand's data collection and education system could enhance its future positioning. Among the top global education performers, South Korea, Denmark, and the Netherlands rank highly, while within ASEAN, Thailand stands behind Laos but ahead of Myanmar and Cambodia. The discussion continues, as officials and educators alike seek to enhance Thailand's educational landscape, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-26

Bakery Collision in Samut Prakan Leaves Mother and Son Unscathed - video Photo via Channel 7 A Thai woman and her young son narrowly escaped injury when a 64-year-old driver mistakenly crashed her sedan into a bakery in Samut Prakan province, just outside Bangkok. The incident, which took place at 8.39am on March 24, was captured on CCTV and quickly went viral, with viewers expressing relief that the mother and child were unharmed. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355877-bakery-collision-in-samut-prakan-leaves-mother-and-son-unscathed-video/

Photo via Channel 7 A Thai woman and her young son narrowly escaped injury when a 64-year-old driver mistakenly crashed her sedan into a bakery in Samut Prakan province, just outside Bangkok. The incident, which took place at 8.39am on March 24, was captured on CCTV and quickly went viral, with viewers expressing relief that the mother and child were unharmed. In the footage, the Bakerlicious bakery worker was cleaning while her son walked towards her. Shortly after he passed the shop’s front door, a grey sedan ploughed into the store, shattering the glass and hitting a product shelf. The car's front wheel kept spinning as if the accelerator had been pressed instead of the brake, but fortunately, the product shelf and a structural pillar halted the vehicle. The mother and son, visibly shaken, were seen hugging on the right side of the shop, with the mother repeatedly checking if her son was alright. Both escaped without injury. The shop owner told journalists from Sanam Khao Mueang Prakan that the driver, a neighbouring 64-year-old food vendor, was also unhurt but deeply shocked by the incident. The driver explained that in a moment of error, she intended to reverse but mistakenly shifted into drive, causing the unintended forward movement. While the driver's insurance is set to cover the damages, the bakery owner has already replaced the glass door at a cost of 18,000 baht and plans to claim reimbursement later. The incident sparked debate online, with some criticising the driver's age and others countering that driving capability should be assessed based on health and vehicle condition rather than age. Notably, Thailand does not impose a legal age limit for drivers, adding to the conversation about safe driving practices, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-26

Boy's Mysterious Disappearance in Lop Buri Sparks Supernatural Theories Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 12-year-old boy mysteriously vanished during a game of hide and seek near his home in Lop Buri, only to be found hours later in an incident that has sparked supernatural speculation among residents. The event occurred on March 25, when emergency services and local police were notified of the boy's disappearance from the Mueang district at around 11.45am. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355875-boys-mysterious-disappearance-in-lop-buri-sparks-supernatural-theories/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 12-year-old boy mysteriously vanished during a game of hide and seek near his home in Lop Buri, only to be found hours later in an incident that has sparked supernatural speculation among residents. The event occurred on March 25, when emergency services and local police were notified of the boy's disappearance from the Mueang district at around 11.45am. The boy, known as "A," went missing, prompting an extensive search involving his family, police, and community members, who combed through a nearby forest and hill without success. It wasn't until 3pm that two young friends, Jazz and Keng, noticed A sitting quietly near his home, puzzling everyone since the area had been thoroughly searched. When found, A seemed disoriented and was covered in dirt. He explained feeling neglected because he wasn't allowed to perform a traditional Thai dance. Jazz recalled A interrupting their game, emerging from hiding to dance in a way they found unsettling. Despite their concerns, A claimed he couldn't stop dancing. As the game continued, they assumed A was still involved, leading to the confusion. The incident has rekindled local folklore about paranormal activity in the area. Residents shared stories of previous tragedies, including a man's murder of his wife nearby, which has led to beliefs in restless spirits. Some speculate these spirits might have influenced A's unusual actions. Locals plan to conduct a merit-making ceremony on March 30, coinciding with the anniversary of the murder, aiming to appease any lingering spirits and restore peace to the community. Whether or not one subscribes to supernatural beliefs, the strange events have undeniably left a deep impression on the residents of Lop Buri, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-26

Teenagers Arrested for Broadcasting Brutal Murder of Trang Man Online In a disturbing incident in Trang, two 14-year-old boys were arrested for the brutal murder of a 33-year-old man, which they filmed and posted on social media. The shocking murder occurred in a rubber plantation and was reported by Esor News on March 25. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355873-teenagers-arrested-for-broadcasting-brutal-murder-of-trang-man-online/

In a disturbing incident in Trang, two 14-year-old boys were arrested for the brutal murder of a 33-year-old man, which they filmed and posted on social media. The shocking murder occurred in a rubber plantation and was reported by Esor News on March 25. The young offenders targeted Rungrueang Nakwong, sharing an Instagram story featuring his lifeless body, marked by a bragging caption: "Killed one." The distressing video was posted without any blur or censorship, prompting the page administrator to add a “censored” label over the victim’s body out of respect. After the video went viral, police swiftly apprehended the boys at an abandoned house in Kantang district, Trang province. Two .32 guns used in the crime were seized, and the boys confessed, revealing that the murder was drug-related. Details emerged that Rungrueang, who left home early for his kratom delivery job, was found with two gunshot wounds near his left ear. His family disclosed his history with drugs, suspecting a drug-related conflict led to his murder. Despite the suspects' young age, they face charges of intentional murder under Section 288 of the Criminal Law. However, their juvenile status means the punishment will be decided at the government's discretion, reflecting the complexity of handling violent crimes by minors. Alarmingly, a social media post from a friend of the boys surfaced, seemingly supporting their actions with a message of friendship and solidarity, saying, "Take care, my beloved friends. We will always be friends, and I will always wait for your return (from jail)." This sparked online calls for authorities to monitor and address the influences on these youths’ social circles, highlighting broader concerns about peer influence and youth crime, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-26

Teen's Fake Funeral Sparks Controversy in Udon Thani Community Photo via Channel 8 A teenager in Udon Thani, Thailand, faced backlash after staging a fake funeral for his mother, allegedly aiming to collect money from friends and teachers. The incident unfolded when the community leader, Sisawat Phodhiwat, was alerted by a teacher about a student's claim of his mother's death. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355872-teens-fake-funeral-sparks-controversy-in-udon-thani-community/

Photo via Channel 8 A teenager in Udon Thani, Thailand, faced backlash after staging a fake funeral for his mother, allegedly aiming to collect money from friends and teachers. The incident unfolded when the community leader, Sisawat Phodhiwat, was alerted by a teacher about a student's claim of his mother's death. The 18-year-old, identified as Ice, had informed his teacher that his mother had died in Bangkok, prompting a funeral in Udon Thani. Attendees, including classmates and the teacher, gave money to Ice for support. Ice later posted photos of the funeral on social media, claiming it was modest as per his mother's wishes to save funds for his university education. Suspicions arose when Sisawat visited Ice's household, finding him and his grandparents in mourning attire, sitting before a coffin. Ice initially maintained that the event was an educational exercise on Isaan traditions and that a teacher had assigned it. However, the school refuted this claim, revealing no such assignment existed. Upon inspecting the coffin, Sisawat discovered a banana trunk instead of a body, leading to suspicions that Ice fabricated the funeral to solicit financial aid. The following day, Ice burned the coffin, sharing images and a farewell message online, further misleading his network. Ice's grandmother, Dueandee, defended him, explaining the ritual was prompted by a fortune teller's advice to bring good luck to Ice's mother. They had neglected to inform local leaders about the ritual, unwittingly causing the misunderstanding. Currently, Ice has taken refuge in monkhood at a distant temple, likely seeking distance from the fallout. Both Ice and Dueandee asserted that they had communicated the ritual's true nature, but it seems some recipients did not hear this explanation. While Ice's friends expressed dismay over the deception, they chose to forgive him, influenced by his grandmother's defence. Questions persist about the money collected during the funeral and whether it will be returned. The incident remains an unusual tale prompting discussion within the community about customs and the responsibilities of honesty and transparency, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-26

"Spider-Man" Thief Strikes Again at Khon Kaen Shrine, Police Step Up Hunt Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A daring thief, nicknamed "Spider-Man," has struck the Pha Laloeng Wai Shrine in Khon Kaen province for the second time, using his signature method of abseiling from the roof to execute the theft. The incident, which took place at 3.19am on March 24, has prompted police to intensify efforts to catch the elusive suspect. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355871-spider-man-thief-strikes-again-at-khon-kaen-shrine-police-step-up-hunt/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A daring thief, nicknamed "Spider-Man," has struck the Pha Laloeng Wai Shrine in Khon Kaen province for the second time, using his signature method of abseiling from the roof to execute the theft. The incident, which took place at 3.19am on March 24, has prompted police to intensify efforts to catch the elusive suspect. The theft occurred in Mueang Phon subdistrict, Phon district, where approximately 5,000 baht (US$150) in cash was stolen from a drawer near the shrine's entrance. The thief made his escape on a motorcycle parked behind the shrine. This brazen act followed a similar incident earlier in the month, hinting at the same individual being responsible. While inspecting the site, committee member Ariyapong Akkarasirimongkol and local police found indicators of the break-in: a chair positioned in front of a side door, hand and footprints on the roof, and a blue hose with knots used for the descent. CCTV footage provided further evidence, capturing the suspect's approach from the back on a motorcycle, climbing onto the roof using the hose, and tying it to a concrete extension. Once inside, he broke through a mesh, stole the cash, and fled the scene. The previous break-in, from the night of March 3 into March 4, resulted in the theft of a similar amount of cash along with firecrackers and Thai swords, reinforcing suspicions of a repeat offender. In response, shrine officials have reported the thefts to the Phon Police Station and are enhancing security measures by installing more CCTV cameras and adding extra bars to the windows, aiming to deter future incidents and support the police in their intensified search for the "Spider-Man" thief, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-26

Woman Arrested for Stealing Valuables from Luxury Home in Chon Buri Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 38-year-old woman was arrested for stealing valuables worth around 600,000 baht from a luxury home in Chon Buri. The incident unfolded on March 25, when police apprehended Naritsara while she was asleep in a rented room in the Nong Phai Kaeo subdistrict. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355869-woman-arrested-for-stealing-valuables-from-luxury-home-in-chon-buri/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 38-year-old woman was arrested for stealing valuables worth around 600,000 baht from a luxury home in Chon Buri. The incident unfolded on March 25, when police apprehended Naritsara while she was asleep in a rented room in the Nong Phai Kaeo subdistrict. Under the direction of Police Colonel Somchai Thiwangsa, Deputy Superintendent Thanongsak Suwannawat led the investigative team responsible for her arrest. Naritsara confessed to the crime, driven by a desire for money. She recounted how she randomly drove her Toyota Vios before parking alongside the Chao Por Suea-Thung Klet Route in Map Phai. Naritsara trespassed into the residential area by walking through a cassava field and scaling a wall. She specifically targeted houses with few or no visible signs of occupancy, such as parked vehicles or many shoes outside. Spotting a gap in the fence hidden by bushes, she accessed the house by unlocking a door with a key left in the shrine room lock and even helped herself to a drink from the fridge. She then filled a bag—taken from a shoe rack—with valuables from the second floor, including a gold necklace, gold-framed amulets, and rings. These items were later sold at a gold shop in Nong Chak subdistrict. Despite not recovering all items, the homeowner expressed relief at the arrest when the police summoned them to verify the retrieved possessions. Naritsara, upon seeing the homeowner, begged for forgiveness, admitting her errors; however, the homeowner insisted on pursuing legal action. The police have charged Naritsara and are investigating potential further offences before proceeding with court actions, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-26

Russian Motorcyclist Seriously Injured in Early Morning Pattaya Crash Photo: TV Channel 7 A serious accident occurred in Pattaya early today, March 26, involving a Russian motorcyclist who collided with a sedan. The incident took place at about 5.19 a.m. on Pattaya Sai 3 road in front of an entertainment venue in Banglamung district, Chonburi. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355868-russian-motorcyclist-seriously-injured-in-early-morning-pattaya-crash/

Photo: TV Channel 7 A serious accident occurred in Pattaya early today, March 26, involving a Russian motorcyclist who collided with a sedan. The incident took place at about 5.19 a.m. on Pattaya Sai 3 road in front of an entertainment venue in Banglamung district, Chonburi. Police Lieutenant Phupha Hongyakul from the Pattaya City police station responded swiftly to the scene after receiving a report. The motorcyclist, Mr. Aleksanor Vasilev, 38, was found in a precarious condition lying across the bonnet of the sedan, having suffered significant injuries to his legs, hips, face, and head, bleeding heavily. Emergency responders from Sawang Boriboon Dhammasathan promptly transported him to Pattaya City Hospital for urgent medical treatment. The driver of the sedan, identified as Mr. Wirasak, 55, explained that he had just left an entertainment venue and was attempting to change lanes towards Sue San intersection when Mr. Vasilev, riding a large motorcycle at high speed, collided with his vehicle. Despite attempting to brake, Mr. Wirasak was unable to prevent the crash. Police investigators have documented the scene and are currently reviewing CCTV footage to ascertain the precise cause of the accident. Further details will be unveiled as the investigation proceeds, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-26

Thailand Investigates Illegal Import of 10,000 Tonnes of Radioactive Waste Photo courtesy of The Nation The Ministry of Industry has launched an urgent investigation into the illegal importation of over 10,000 tonnes of radioactive waste inaccurately labelled as zinc concentrate. This material, tainted with hazardous caesium-137, was clandestinely brought into Thailand, raising serious concerns about the nation’s waste management protocols. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355867-thailand-investigates-illegal-import-of-10000-tonnes-of-radioactive-waste/