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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Tuesday 25 March 2025
snoop1130 replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
PM Paetongtarn Accused of Aiding Father's Legal Evasion in Heated Debate File photo for reference only Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faced intense scrutiny on March 25 during the parliamentary censure debate, accused of participating in a scheme to shield her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, from serving a jail sentence. People's MP Rangsiman Rome alleged that Paetongtarn was involved in manipulating circumstances to prevent Thaksin from facing his one-year prison term for past charges of power abuse and misconduct. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355748-pm-paetongtarn-accused-of-aiding-fathers-legal-evasion-in-heated-debate/ -
File photo for reference only Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra faced intense scrutiny on March 25 during the parliamentary censure debate, accused of participating in a scheme to shield her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, from serving a jail sentence. People's MP Rangsiman Rome alleged that Paetongtarn was involved in manipulating circumstances to prevent Thaksin from facing his one-year prison term for past charges of power abuse and misconduct. Rangsiman claimed Paetongtarn knew of her father's feigned critical illness and played a role in maintaining this deception. He argued that her involvement promoted double standards, allowing Thaksin to avoid jail and receive special treatment at Police Hospital as a "highly-privileged" patient. The accusations suggested a covert agreement, possibly with former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, enabling Thaksin's return to Thailand in 2023 without imprisonment. Rangsiman stopped short of naming collaborators in this alleged "deal with the Devil." During Thaksin's hospital stay, which was purportedly a matter of life and death, Paetongtarn was reportedly seen overseas, seemingly detached from her father's condition. Rangsiman further claimed Thaksin used a mobile phone from his hospital room to influence political arrangements, including forming a Pheu Thai-led coalition government. Rangsiman's address criticised Paetongtarn's role in what he described as effectively aiding in a "jailbreak," a serious accusation carrying potential legal consequences. Despite the accusations, Paetongtarn opted not to respond immediately following the heated exchange, while Pheu Thai MPs protested the allegations. The debate underscored significant political tensions, with allegations of nepotism and corruption taking centre stage, pointing to broader issues of governance and transparency within Thailand's political landscape, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-03-25
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Tuesday 25 March 2025
snoop1130 replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
PM Paetongtarn Faces Censure Over Economic Missteps in Parliamentary Debate File photo for reference only Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's leadership came under fire during the censure debate in parliament, as People's Party (PP) MP Pakamon Noon-anan highlighted perceived gaps in her economic acumen. Pakamon criticised Paetongtarn for past comments and decisions, questioning her preparedness for the premiership. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355747-pm-paetongtarn-faces-censure-over-economic-missteps-in-parliamentary-debate/ -
File photo for reference only Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's leadership came under fire during the censure debate in parliament, as People's Party (PP) MP Pakamon Noon-anan highlighted perceived gaps in her economic acumen. Pakamon criticised Paetongtarn for past comments and decisions, questioning her preparedness for the premiership. In her critique, Pakamon referenced a 2023 incident where Paetongtarn reportedly misunderstood the impact of a stronger baht on exports, illustrating what Pakamon called a fundamental economic error. The error, Pakamon argued, damages confidence in Thailand's leadership. Pakamon also illustrated instances where Paetongtarn evaded answering critical economic stimulus questions—the PM had either diverted the questions to the Ministry of Finance or responded without substance, during periods of economic stress. Further criticism targeted Paetongtarn's performance at the 2024 Forbes Global CEO Conference in Bangkok. Pakamon emphasised missed opportunities, citing Paetongtarn's focus on domestic economic measures, like farm debt moratoriums, rather than outlining strategies for technological infrastructure and workforce development when addressing potential investors. Additionally, the prime minister's response about Thailand's geopolitical location during the conference was seen as lacking depth. Pakamon suggested that more relevant topics, such as economic policies and workforce skills development, would better attract foreign investment. Pakamon questioned Paetongtarn's ability to handle complex economic issues, like the US export market's impact on Thailand's GDP, as a matter requiring strategic foresight. The debate highlighted opposition concerns over the PM's economic policy direction and capacity to foster investor confidence in Thailand, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-25
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Tuesday 25 March 2025
snoop1130 replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Rayong Woman's 1.7 Million Baht Scam Case Ignored, Police Only Help Celebrities Photo via Channel 7 A 50-year-old woman from Rayong, Kanlayaphat, has publicly criticised police efforts after falling victim to a scam that drained 1.7 million baht from her account. Claiming her case has been neglected for nearly a year, Kanlayaphat accuses the police of prioritising cases involving famous individuals. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355746-rayong-womans-17-million-baht-scam-case-ignored-police-only-help-celebrities/ -
Photo via Channel 7 A 50-year-old woman from Rayong, Kanlayaphat, has publicly criticised police efforts after falling victim to a scam that drained 1.7 million baht from her account. Claiming her case has been neglected for nearly a year, Kanlayaphat accuses the police of prioritising cases involving famous individuals. The scam unfolded in April last year when a fraudster impersonating a Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) official convinced her to upload payment proof via a suspicious URL. Following a phone assurance that she had overpaid her bills, the scammer persuaded Kanlayaphat to perform a face scan, resulting in four fraudulent withdrawals totalling over 1.7 million baht from her savings. Despite filing a complaint at Huay Pong Police Station, Kanlayaphat has had no progress updates, with police and the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) shifting responsibility. Frustrated by this standoff, she has turned to the media, questioning both police efficacy and the bank's security protocols. Kanlayaphat's intention was merely to secure her retirement, and although sceptical of recovering her stolen funds, she hopes for the arrest of the perpetrator. Officers from the relevant police departments are yet to respond publicly to her claims. This case highlights issues of accountability and raises awareness about the vulnerability of individuals to sophisticated scams, irrespective of their standing, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-25
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Tuesday 25 March 2025
snoop1130 replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Easing Alcohol Ad Rules May Boost Small Producers in Thailand File photo for reference only The Thai Alcohol Beverage Business Association (Tabba) believes that relaxing restrictions on alcohol advertising could benefit small-scale producers by providing greater marketing opportunities. Under Article 32 of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act (2008), advertising is severely limited, banning direct or indirect promotion and any display of alcohol brands or their benefits. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355744-easing-alcohol-ad-rules-may-boost-small-producers-in-thailand/ -
File photo for reference only The Thai Alcohol Beverage Business Association (Tabba) believes that relaxing restrictions on alcohol advertising could benefit small-scale producers by providing greater marketing opportunities. Under Article 32 of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act (2008), advertising is severely limited, banning direct or indirect promotion and any display of alcohol brands or their benefits. Following a proposal by Pheu Thai MP Chanin Rungtanakiat, the House has accepted a bill potentially easing these restrictions. This bill would allow alcohol advertisements to focus on factual information as defined by a ministerial regulation. Tabba Chairman Kawee Sakawee expressed optimism, hoping for clear guidance and compliance across the industry. Kawee anticipates that ministerial regulations will specify permissible communication actions focused on factual content, such as description of origins and flavours, rather than promotional allurements. The proposed changes aim to give consumers greater access to product information, enhancing their purchasing decisions at points of sale. If implemented, the new law would particularly benefit small producers by allowing them to more visibly promote their unique offerings, helping consumers appreciate differences between brands. Highlighting product characteristics more effectively could lead to increased consumer choice and market diversity. With the bill having passed the lower House, it now awaits further approval from the Senate and needs royal endorsement to become law. While Tabba remains uncertain about the timeframe for these changes to take effect, they welcome the potential for growth and innovation this legislative adjustment could bring to the alcohol industry, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-25
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Tuesday 25 March 2025
snoop1130 replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Immigration Officer Surrenders After Assault and Firearm Theft Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a dramatic sequence of events, a 37-year-old immigration officer named Kittisak has surrendered to authorities after assaulting his ex-girlfriend and attacking a fellow police officer who attempted to intervene. The incident unfolded early on March 25 in Chon Buri's Sattahip district, where Kittisak forcibly entered a property, assaulting his 28-year-old ex-girlfriend, Anongluk, amidst ongoing harassment. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355743-immigration-officer-surrenders-after-assault-and-firearm-theft/ -
Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a dramatic sequence of events, a 37-year-old immigration officer named Kittisak has surrendered to authorities after assaulting his ex-girlfriend and attacking a fellow police officer who attempted to intervene. The incident unfolded early on March 25 in Chon Buri's Sattahip district, where Kittisak forcibly entered a property, assaulting his 28-year-old ex-girlfriend, Anongluk, amidst ongoing harassment. The situation escalated when Police Sub-Lieutenant Pasakorn Phachurabiabna arrived to de-escalate the confrontation but was met with hostility from Kittisak. Claiming rights to the property, Kittisak attacked Pasakorn, inflicting serious injuries, and seized the officer's 9mm firearm before fleeing. Kittisak has since turned himself into Sattahip district police, returning the stolen weapon but declining to make any statements, visibly remorseful. His actions have prompted the initiation of both criminal charges and disciplinary procedures. Police Colonel Khomsan Kamtunkaew, chief of the Sattahip Police Station, stressed the severity of the case, considering the assault on an officer and theft of a duty firearm. Immediate investigative measures have been instructed, and communication with Kittisak’s department is underway to ensure appropriate disciplinary actions are taken. Stable in condition, Pasakorn's prompt efforts prevent further escalation and are acknowledged amid ongoing legal processes. The seriousness of the offences warrants full judicial and departmental scrutiny, underscoring a commitment to justice and police accountability, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-25
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Tuesday 25 March 2025
snoop1130 replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Two Arrested in Pattaya Robbery and Assault, Five Suspects on the Run Picture courtesy of สยามชล นิวส์ Facebook In a significant breakthrough, Pattaya police have apprehended two men from a group of seven alleged to have attacked and robbed a 26-year-old Laotian woman, Waewta, earlier this year. The incident occurred on February 2, when the gang, disguising themselves with balaclavas, used a firearm to threaten Waewta. A female assailant initiated the violence by slapping and slashing the victim with a knife before the male accomplices joined in. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355742-two-arrested-in-pattaya-robbery-and-assault-five-suspects-on-the-run/ -
Picture courtesy of สยามชล นิวส์ Facebook In a significant breakthrough, Pattaya police have apprehended two men from a group of seven alleged to have attacked and robbed a 26-year-old Laotian woman, Waewta, earlier this year. The incident occurred on February 2, when the gang, disguising themselves with balaclavas, used a firearm to threaten Waewta. A female assailant initiated the violence by slapping and slashing the victim with a knife before the male accomplices joined in. The group fled with 7,000 baht, a mobile phone, a passport, and motorcycle keys, leaving Waewta with serious injuries. Frustrated with slow progress, she sought help from Kanthas Pongsphibulwetch, known as Kan Jompalung, on March 17. At 2.06 am on March 25, Police Lieutenant Colonel Arut Sapanon and his team arrested two suspects, 23-year-old Rithai Sumkhemthong and 28-year-old Peerarach Yoosabai, at a central Pattaya residence. Authorities also seized the crime-associated motorcycle, which had been repainted in an attempt to avoid detection. Both suspects have remained silent, choosing to communicate exclusively with police investigators. With the remaining five perpetrators still at large, police continue to chase significant leads to ensure all involved are brought to justice. The arrests mark a promising development in investigating this brutal robbery and assault case, as efforts intensify to secure the whereabouts and capture of the other suspects, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-25
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Tuesday 25 March 2025
snoop1130 replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Thai Woman Fights Back After Policeman Ex-boyfriend Steals to Gamble Photo via MGR Online A Thai woman named Fah is determined to seek justice after accusing her policeman ex-boyfriend in Samut Prakan of drug use and stealing 500,000 baht to feed his gambling addiction. The 38-year-old turned to lawyer Nathatpong Boonkird after her initial complaint to the Royal Thai Police (RTP) produced no results. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355741-thai-woman-fights-back-after-policeman-ex-boyfriend-steals-to-gamble/ -
Photo via MGR Online A Thai woman named Fah is determined to seek justice after accusing her policeman ex-boyfriend in Samut Prakan of drug use and stealing 500,000 baht to feed his gambling addiction. The 38-year-old turned to lawyer Nathatpong Boonkird after her initial complaint to the Royal Thai Police (RTP) produced no results. Their relationship began in January 2022, when Fah met the officer, then a police inspector, who eventually became deputy superintendent of a local police station. Initially, he appeared dedicated to his duty, even offering to pay a fine on her behalf. However, things deteriorated by late 2022, as he began borrowing her phone for gambling and failed to repay loans from Fah. Fah uncovered his gambling addiction when debt collection notices began arriving. Further shocks came when she found drug paraphernalia and witnessed him using crystal meth at her home, prompting her to end the relationship in December 2023. Post-breakup, Fah discovered her savings, totalling over 500,000 baht, had been transferred to a gambling site, and cash saved at home was missing. Despite presenting video evidence of his drug use and gambling during duty hours, she received a letter from the RTP downplaying his actions, attributing them to job-related activities and medical expenses. Fah firmly contested these claims and, frustrated by the felon's rank possibly delaying investigations, sought legal assistance. Her lawyer criticised the patrol officer, urging a drug test and appropriate disciplinary action if misconduct was confirmed. As Fah continues her fight for justice, her determination highlights ongoing issues concerning accountability within the police ranks. Fah and her lawyer demand thorough investigation and swift corrective measures. Meanwhile, the police officer and the RTP have yet to comment on Fah's accusations, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-25
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Tuesday 25 March 2025
snoop1130 replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Canadian Tourist's Warning: Assault and Theft in Pattaya Bars Images provided to The Thaiger A retired Canadian man, Douglas, has issued a stark warning to fellow tourists after suffering a brazen assault and theft at the hands of three Thai women in Pattaya. The unsettling incident unfolded shortly after his return to Thailand on March 10, following a stay near Rompho Market in Jomtien. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355740-canadian-tourists-warning-assault-and-theft-in-pattaya-bars/ -
Images provided to The Thaiger A retired Canadian man, Douglas, has issued a stark warning to fellow tourists after suffering a brazen assault and theft at the hands of three Thai women in Pattaya. The unsettling incident unfolded shortly after his return to Thailand on March 10, following a stay near Rompho Market in Jomtien. His night took a dark turn after a casual outing, during which he was lured by the women to what was described as a makeshift bar. Once there, Douglas was restrained, assaulted, and ultimately robbed of 15,000 baht. Despite his best efforts to leave, a male accomplice joined the women in attacking him, leaving him with a black eye. Douglas reported the incident to Pattaya police but faced a disappointing response, with officials expressing scepticism about taking significant action. Investigations did uncover CCTV footage showing Douglas being escorted on a motorbike after the assault. However, claims by one of the women about visiting a nearby 7-Eleven were unverified, as the store agreed to share footage only with authorities. The victim's attempts to gather evidence, including consulting a lawyer and approaching police for further help, were met with challenges. Staff at the bar, seemingly reluctant to cooperate, echoed concerns over the incident reflecting badly on the establishment. Douglas, aware of common scams, was caught off-guard by this orchestrated attack involving freelancers rather than regular employees. He stresses the need for vigilance among tourists visiting bars alone, recognising the risk of falling prey to similar ploys that exploit intoxication and isolation. Although frustrated by lacklustre support from some bar staff and the police's slow response, Douglas remains committed to achieving justice. He cautions others about the potential dangers in Pattaya, imploring them to take care when navigating the nightlife, especially when unaccompanied, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-25
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Tuesday 25 March 2025
snoop1130 replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Chiang Mai Wildfires: Disaster Zones Declared Amid Rising PM2.5 Photo courtesy of International Fire & Safety Journal The relentless wildfires in Chiang Dao and Omkoi districts, Chiang Mai, have led to a disaster zone declaration as local authorities ramp up response efforts. Governor Nirat Phongsittithaworn's announcement on March 24 affects five subdistricts, enabling swift emergency measures to combat the ongoing crisis. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355738-chiang-mai-wildfires-disaster-zones-declared-amid-rising-pm25/ -
Photo courtesy of International Fire & Safety Journal The relentless wildfires in Chiang Dao and Omkoi districts, Chiang Mai, have led to a disaster zone declaration as local authorities ramp up response efforts. Governor Nirat Phongsittithaworn's announcement on March 24 affects five subdistricts, enabling swift emergency measures to combat the ongoing crisis. Initiated on March 12, the fires have ravaged 17 villages in Chiang Dao and Ping Khong subdistricts, while in Omkoi, five villages in Yang Piang, Mae Tuen, and Mon Chong have suffered since March 14. Emergency services, including soldiers and state officials, are working tirelessly to manage the flames, prevent further outbreaks, and prosecute any culprits. The environmental impact is severe, with hazardous PM2.5 levels affecting vast areas. Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, and Mae Hong Son are shrouded in haze, with PM2.5 readings in Chiang Mai’s key districts soaring up to 90 μg/m³, far exceeding the safe standard of 37.5 μg/m³. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) reports that 57 provinces, including Bangkok, are experiencing elevated PM2.5 concentrations. The highest readings were recorded in Bueng Kan at 146.2 μg/m³. The north and central regions, in particular, are suffering from severe air quality issues. Authorities emphasise the need for continued vigilance and cooperation as efforts to contain the fires and mitigate their impact on public health and the environment move forward. The situation remains critical, underscoring the importance of swift action and community support in combating both the wildfires and hazardous air pollution, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-25
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Tuesday 25 March 2025
snoop1130 replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Japanese Fugitive Arrested in Thailand for Assault and Fraud Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A Japanese national, aged 42, known as Kaneda, was apprehended in Thailand's Hua Hin district for crimes in both Japan and Thailand. Arrested on March 23 at 2pm, he faces charges of assaulting a compatriot in 2017 and extensive fraud in Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355737-japanese-fugitive-arrested-in-thailand-for-assault-and-fraud/ -
Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A Japanese national, aged 42, known as Kaneda, was apprehended in Thailand's Hua Hin district for crimes in both Japan and Thailand. Arrested on March 23 at 2pm, he faces charges of assaulting a compatriot in 2017 and extensive fraud in Thailand. Kaneda's capture follows an immigration police investigation, spurred by a Southern Bangkok Criminal Court warrant for fraud. Authorities allege that Kaneda deceived Japanese and Thai investors with false promises of lucrative returns in cannabis and other business ventures. His scams reportedly drained victims of approximately 10 million baht (around US$294,245), involving counterfeit documentation from Japanese companies in Thailand. Having entered Thailand last September through Don Mueang Airport, Kaneda's identity was verified through collaboration with the Japanese Embassy. Back in Japan, he is linked to a violent attack that's resulted in serious injuries to another Japanese citizen. The victim lodged charges after returning to Japan, prompting another warrant. His arrest yielded disturbing evidence pointing to potential involvement in a criminal network operating in Thailand, with materials hinting at ransom and human trafficking schemes. Kaneda, admitting his identity as the defendant in the warrants, is currently undergoing legal proceedings at Thung Maha Mek Police Station. This case underscores the global aspect of crime and the intricate cooperation required between nations to ensure justice is served. Thai authorities, working closely with international partners, continue to clamp down on cross-border criminal activities that threaten public safety and trust, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-25
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Tuesday 25 March 2025
snoop1130 replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Ugandan Nationals Deported for Illegal Activities in Phuket Photo courtesy of Phuketandamannews Facebook In a significant blow to Phuket's tourism image, five Ugandan women were recently arrested and deported for engaging in illegal sex services. The arrests took place in the bustling Soi Bangla area of Patong, a hotspot for international visitors. Phuket Immigration, led by Police Colonel Songprot Sirisuk, acted swiftly on public complaints regarding the activities of these foreign nationals, whose actions were deemed detrimental to the island's reputation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355736-ugandan-nationals-deported-for-illegal-activities-in-phuket/ -
Photo courtesy of Phuketandamannews Facebook In a significant blow to Phuket's tourism image, five Ugandan women were recently arrested and deported for engaging in illegal sex services. The arrests took place in the bustling Soi Bangla area of Patong, a hotspot for international visitors. Phuket Immigration, led by Police Colonel Songprot Sirisuk, acted swiftly on public complaints regarding the activities of these foreign nationals, whose actions were deemed detrimental to the island's reputation. The women, aged between 31 and 38, openly admitted to soliciting tourists, thus breaching Thailand’s Prevention and Suppression of Prostitution Act 1996. Under this law, actions like inviting or harassing individuals in public spaces for prostitution are prohibited. Their swift arrest and deportation underscore Thailand's zero-tolerance stance as supported by Police Lieutenant General Phanumas Boonnalak and Police Major General Panthana Nuchnarat. Ensuring the integrity of their tourist-centric economy, the authorities took immediate measures. The women were processed by the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security before having their stay permissions revoked, signifying Thailand's ongoing efforts to curb illegal foreign activities. This incident marks a broader initiative by the Royal Thai Police and the Immigration Bureau to uphold law and order, safeguarding both local businesses and tourists alike from the negative repercussions of transnational crime and illicit activities. With a firm hand, Phuket aims to maintain its allure as a premier destination while protecting its community's interests, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-25
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(From L) Portrait photos of Dao Xuan Loc, Nguyen Tuan Anh, Nguyen Anh Duy in warrants issued by police in Tay Ninh Province. Photo courtesy of VN News Express. In a startling case of betrayal, a man in Tay Ninh Province, southern Vietnam, has been identified by police as the mastermind behind the theft of US$2 million from his own parents. Unnamed by authorities, the son reportedly staged the robbery by scheming with accomplices who posed as police officers. On March 10, the son informed three associates—Dao Xuan Loc, Nguyen Tuan Anh, and Nguyen Anh Duy—about the location of the cash his parents had recently acquired from a business deal. Disguised as law enforcement, the trio arrived at the parents' home, feigning an inspection to verify the foreign currency's legitimacy. Convinced of the impostors' authenticity, the parents cooperated by heading to a fabricated police station for further questioning. This allowed the three men to seize the opportunity, absconding with the money while the parents were distracted. The incident was promptly reported to the actual authorities, leading to swift action. Police issued arrest warrants, ultimately capturing the suspects several hundred kilometers away in Gia Lai Province after they tried evading capture by moving between locations. Additionally, two accomplices related to the crime were detained, and police successfully recovered the entire stolen sum. The incident underscores a dramatic breach of familial trust, as the son exploited his parents' vulnerability for personal gain. The arrested individuals now face legal proceedings as investigations continue into this elaborate heist, reported VN Express. -- 2025-03-24
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Phan Xuân Diện shows herbal teas from cà gai leo (Solanum procumbens), a traditional medicinal plant. Photo courtesy of Vietnam News. HÀ NỘI — As Vietnam undergoes significant public sector reforms, a growing number of civil servants are choosing to leave stable government positions to explore opportunities in the private sector. Prompted by the Party’s Resolution No 18-NQ/TW, these reforms aim to streamline the public sector, reduce bureaucracy, and align human resources with global economic demands. This policy shift has encouraged stories of personal reinvention, as former State employees take bold steps into entrepreneurship. Lê Thế Phong, once a teacher in Thanh Hóa Province, resigned after 13 years to start a wood-chipping business, employing local workers and generating substantial profit. Despite initial family concerns, Phong is pleased with his decision to pursue his business passion. Similarly, former journalist Bùi Chính Thu and his wife left their long-held State jobs to start their own business, gaining newfound autonomy over their lives and finances. He urges young professionals to embrace change, highlighting adaptability and critical thinking as key to success. Phan Xuân Diện, who worked on a government project in Nghệ An Province, founded Pù Mát Pharmaceutical JSC, producing herbal teas from traditional plants. Despite challenges, he values the freedom to pursue his passions and the positive impact on local farmers. As these stories unfold, the private sector in Vietnam is thriving, offering former civil servants avenues for contribution outside government. Local leaders acknowledge the benefits of this shift, with provincial policies enabling hundreds of early retirements to make way for new, capable leaders. Support mechanisms, such as preferential credit packages and entrepreneurship training, are essential to help these early retirees succeed in the private sector. Recent legislative amendments have improved retirement benefits, yet efficient processing remains crucial for a smooth transition. Overall, while the public sector's evolution aims at efficiency, it also opens opportunities for individuals to redefine their careers, ultimately benefiting Vietnam's broader economic landscape, reported Vietna, News. -- 2025-03-24
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Nguyen Song Anh. Photo courtesy of VN Express Nguyen Song Anh, a 42-year-old electrical engineer, has carved a remarkable career in the global semiconductor industry. Now a senior manager at SanDisk in Silicon Valley, he's leading innovations in NAND flash memory for applications ranging from consumer electronics to artificial intelligence. His career journey is marked by resilience, ongoing learning, and a strategic approach to professional growth. Hailing from Thanh Hoa Province, central Vietnam, Anh's education took a pivotal turn when he moved to the U.S. in 2000 through a student exchange program. Initially set on studying computer science, he found his passion in electrical engineering at Old Dominion University in Virginia. Here, the complementary fields of electrical and computer engineering provided him with a robust foundation in both hardware and software, a basis that would prove crucial in the semiconductor field. Virginia's evolving focus on semiconductors and an influential internship at Siemens VDO Automotive inspired Anh to dive fully into this burgeoning industry. He pursued both bachelor's and master's degrees in electrical engineering, leveraging every opportunity to deepen his knowledge through guidance from professors and savvy market research. His professional break came in 2007 when Anh joined Micron Technology as a product test engineering intern. This role confirmed his fit for the industry and introduced him to cutting-edge technology far beyond academic exposure. Despite the global financial crisis impacting his next role at Qimonda, he adapted and returned to Micron in 2008. Here, Anh honed his expertise in DRAM and NAND flash technologies, advancing through rigorous training and challenging projects. Anh's consistent performance caught the attention of Loh Suan Bin from Western Digital (now SanDisk), leading to his current leadership role. His strategy of improving year after year and setting new specialized goals every three years has been instrumental in his steady career ascent. As a leader, he balances engineering insights with market demands, fostering a dynamic work environment. Committed to giving back, Anh co-founded the VISEMI Foundation, aiming to highlight Vietnamese talent in semiconductors. By organizing online seminars, mentoring, and career guidance, VISEMI seeks to nurture the next generation of Vietnamese engineers, with support including Vietnam’s National Innovation Center. Anh envisions a future where Vietnam's semiconductor community is recognized globally, turning the dream of working with Vietnamese peers into an achievable reality, reported VN Express. -- 2025-03-24