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Phuket Police Probe Fake Currency Scare as Foreign Women Detained Picture courtesy of Scot Scoop News Phuket police are on high alert following an incident involving two foreign women allegedly attempting to exchange counterfeit US dollars at a local currency exchange. Staff at the exchange, located near a major Cape Panwa hotel, became suspicious of six $50 notes amounting to 9,750 baht. Upon notifying the police, officers raided the women's hotel rooms, uncovering more notes, which were sent for verification. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355616-phuket-police-probe-fake-currency-scare-as-foreign-women-detained/

Picture courtesy of Scot Scoop News Phuket police are on high alert following an incident involving two foreign women allegedly attempting to exchange counterfeit US dollars at a local currency exchange. Staff at the exchange, located near a major Cape Panwa hotel, became suspicious of six $50 notes amounting to 9,750 baht. Upon notifying the police, officers raided the women's hotel rooms, uncovering more notes, which were sent for verification. Bank staff at a Central Phuket shopping mall branch found some of the notes dubious, as the 2017 series often presents verification challenges. Consequently, the notes have been forwarded to Siam Commercial Bank's head office for further analysis. Meanwhile, the Wichit police have placed the women on an immigration watchlist pending forensic results. Should the notes prove counterfeit, legal actions will swiftly follow. Police are cautioning local businesses to be vigilant when handling foreign currency, especially US dollars from the 2017 series. This warning comes hot on the heels of an ATM skimming bust, exposing ongoing financial crimes on the island. Authorities suspect these counterfeit activities may be tied to a larger criminal network targeting tourists and businesses. Phuket's law enforcement, in coordination with the US Embassy, are determined to ascertain whether the women were unaware accomplices in a broader counterfeiting ring or victims themselves. As tourist numbers rise, police are intensifying their crackdown on financial fraud, striving to safeguard the local economy from international crime syndicates, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-24

Pattaya Police Launch Strategic Clampdown on Crime Surge Picture courtesy of Pattaya News In response to rising criminal activities, Pattaya police have introduced a comprehensive strategy to enhance city safety, deploying newly trained patrol units. This initiative follows alarming incidents, including the discovery of a deceased Thai woman in a British tourist's hotel room, highlighting safety concerns in the area. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355615-pattaya-police-launch-strategic-clampdown-on-crime-surge/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya News In response to rising criminal activities, Pattaya police have introduced a comprehensive strategy to enhance city safety, deploying newly trained patrol units. This initiative follows alarming incidents, including the discovery of a deceased Thai woman in a British tourist's hotel room, highlighting safety concerns in the area. To boost security, officers have partnered in patrols and undergone extensive training, focusing on proactive crime deterrence and effective incident response. Police efforts target high-risk zones, utilising the Stop, Walk, and Talk approach to strengthen community relations while maintaining vigilance. Additional patrols and checkpoints have been established, with officers donning bulletproof vests to ensure safety. Regular inspections and strategic coordination aim to minimise response times to incidents, emphasising the city's commitment to public safety. Supported by regional and national police forces, Pattaya's security measures aim to reassure both residents and tourists, showcasing an unwavering dedication to maintaining a secure and enjoyable urban environment, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-24

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Faces Censure Over Leadership Allegation File photo for reference only The Thai parliament witnessed intense debate today, as opposition leaders launched a censure campaign against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, accusing her of incompetence and unethical practices. Led by Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut of the People's Party, the opposition criticised Ms. Shinawatra's handling of national issues like pollution and high electricity costs, claiming her solutions have failed to boost the economy. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355614-prime-minister-shinawatra-faces-censure-over-leadership-allegations/

File photo for reference only The Thai parliament witnessed intense debate today, as opposition leaders launched a censure campaign against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, accusing her of incompetence and unethical practices. Led by Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut of the People's Party, the opposition criticised Ms. Shinawatra's handling of national issues like pollution and high electricity costs, claiming her solutions have failed to boost the economy. A focal point of the debate was the alleged undue influence of her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, a controversial political figure. Mr. Natthaphong argued that Thaksin's involvement in policy making, despite being outside the official government structure, undermined the administration’s credibility. Criticism also came from Palang Pracharath Party leader Gen Prawit Wongsuwon, who denounced the PM’s foreign and domestic policies, warning they posed risks to national resources and security. Gen Prawit further alleged that Ms. Shinawatra pursued economic strategies contrary to international advice and allowed her father's clandestine influence in governmental affairs. Additionally, accusations were made regarding potential tax evasion, citing Ms. Shinawatra's acquisition of shares worth 4.43 billion baht, supposedly gifted by her family to sidestep significant inheritance tax liabilities. The opposition claims such conduct questions her legitimacy as a leader. In her defence, Prime Minister Shinawatra has refuted the allegations, briefly addressing the assembly to deny any misconduct. As the debate continues, her administration faces mounting pressure to restore public confidence amidst these allegations, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-24

File photo for reference only In response to a series of devastating fires in mini apartments, Hà Nội is cracking down with strict fire safety regulations. The Prime Minister has mandated that mini apartments and rental properties lacking fire prevention standards cease operations by March 30, 2024, under Directive 19/2024. Property inspections and guidance are underway, aimed at landlords who must follow fire safety improvement plans to comply. The Hà Nội People's Committee, led by Deputy Chairman Lê Hồng Sơn, has issued guidelines for immediate fire safety enhancements. Essential measures include equipping buildings with portable fire extinguishers, ensuring at least one safe emergency exit, and establishing alternative escape routes. Moreover, landlords must review and upgrade electrical systems, prohibiting risky practices like using repeatedly refilled gas cylinders. For larger residential buildings, newly enforced changes encompass reorganising parking spaces to six square metres per apartment and setting up separate areas for electric vehicle charging, complete with fire suppression equipment for potential electric car fires. This comes amid heightened scrutiny and calls for rigorous implementation of fire safety laws from National Assembly delegate Nguyễn Thị Việt Nga. As the deadline approaches, many landlords are expressing concerns about the feasibility of meeting these new requirements. Nguyễn Văn Q., a landlord, struggles with adapting parking facilities in his densely utilised property. Authorities have warned that non-compliant properties will face closure, and in some areas, utilities may be cut off to enforce compliance. Throughout Hà Nội, officials have undertaken an extensive inspection campaign of around 37,000 rental houses and over 2,000 mini apartments. The city is intent on ensuring no violations slip through the net, promising significant actions against properties failing to upgrade their fire safety protocols. This urgent initiative highlights the critical need for effective measures to safeguard against tragic fire incidents in the city's rapidly growing urban landscape, reported Vietnam News. -- 2025-03-19

Image: Vietnam News In a tragic maritime incident, a fishing boat carrying four crew members sank off the central coast of Vietnam on Tuesday evening. The vessel, named NA-80209-TS and helmed by Captain Nguyễn Văn Cương, 40, disappeared in a stretch of sea between Nghệ An and Hà Tĩnh provinces, about five nautical miles from Mắt Island. The boat, which had set off from Nghệ An on March 17, was making its way back when it unexpectedly sank. Aside from Captain Cương, the missing crew members are Trần Văn Hữu, 30, Lê Tuấn Anh, 20, and Bùi Sỹ Nhất, 48, all hailing from Nghệ An. The crisis came to light when another fishing boat navigated nearby waters and spotted the downed vessel's trawl net. They secured it to their own ship while waiting for rescue teams to arrive. In response to the emergency report, local border guards initiated a thorough search operation and sent distress calls to other boats in the area, urging them to lend assistance. Efforts to locate the missing fishermen continue as the community and maritime authorities remain hopeful in the face of this adversity, reported Vietnam News. -- 2025-03-19

File photo for reference only Ho Chi Minh City officials are sounding the alarm over rising obesity rates in students, with over 37% of young people reportedly affected. Rapid urbanisation and lifestyle changes, such as increased access to fast food and sedentary living, are fuelling this health crisis. A recent report from the city's People's Committee highlights the stark situation, noting that the obesity rate among children under 5 soared from 11.1% in 2017 to a staggering 19.02% today, surpassing the national average. The city's health department, led by Tang Chi Thuong, is taking these findings seriously, outlining ambitious goals to curb this trend by 2030. These include reducing obesity rates among children under 5 to below 14%, and aiming for lower percentages in older children and adults. Such steps are crucial, given the links between obesity and severe health issues like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, as highlighted by the World Health Organization. Ultimately, Ho Chi Minh City's health officials are committed to reversing current trends and fostering healthier lifestyles in the wake of urbanisation pressures, hoping to avoid contributing to the alarming global obesity-related health expenses projected to reach $4 trillion by 2035, reported VN Express. -- 2025-03-19

File photo for reference only In a decisive move against child abuse, the Philippines' Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed multiple criminal cases against Leoncio Benigno Thiem Tolentino, a teacher, for child sexual abuse and exploitation. The charges, which include violations of the Online Sexual Exploitation of Children (OSAEC) laws, the Anti-Child Pornography Act, and several others, were submitted to the Tarlac Regional Trial Court. The case began with a referral from the US-based National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, which prompted an investigation by the Philippine National Police Women and Children Protection Center. The investigation led to the arrest of Tolentino, accused of exploiting students aged 13 and six, using his position of authority. A DOJ panel, finding robust evidence against Tolentino, has moved forward with the indictment, supported by the decision of prosecutors led by Deputy State Prosecutor Olivia Laroza-Torrevillas and guided by Prosecutor General Richard Anthony Fadullon. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla emphasized the DOJ's dedication to justice for society's most vulnerable members, marking a critical step in defending children's rights and safety, reported Philippine News Agency. -- 2025-03-19

File photo for reference only In a significant move for marine preservation and national security, the Philippine Navy has pledged to support the Department of Natural Resources (DENR) in setting up new marine scientific research stations in the West Philippine Sea. This initiative, scheduled for April, aims to deepen biodiversity conservation efforts at Recto Bank and Rizal Reef, along with establishing a station on Pag-asa Island. These sites will join existing stations at Tubbataha Reef, Snake Island in Palawan, and the Verde Island Passage. Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, Navy spokesman for the West Philippine Sea, affirmed the Navy's readiness to provide security and support to the research teams whenever necessary. Such collaboration underscores the strategic importance of these efforts in strengthening maritime monitoring and management capabilities. Meanwhile, the civil society coalition, Atin Ito, is gearing up for its third civilian-led mission, which will include a "Peace and Solidarity Sea Concert" aimed at fostering regional unity through cultural exchange. The event will see participation from artists and civil groups across the Philippines and neighbouring nations, highlighting the collective commitment to safeguarding fisherfolk rights and maritime frontliners. Rear Admiral Trinidad emphasized that support requests from civil society groups for additional security will be evaluated individually, ensuring robust protection and coordination among government and non-government entities, reported Phil Star. -- 2025-03-19

File photo for reference only The Department of Transportation (DOTr) in the Philippines is urgently seeking dialogue with Manibela, a transport group, after they declared a three-day transport strike commencing on Monday, 24th March. The strike is being driven by Manibela's claims of inaccuracies in the consolidation figures from the government's Public Transport Modernization Program (PTMP), monitored by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). The DOTr acknowledges the group's right to voice concerns and has tasked Assistant Secretary Dioscoro 'Jojo' Reyes to initiate talks with them promptly. Ensuring commuter safety and comfort while protecting jeepney drivers' welfare is reportedly a priority. Manibela disputes LTFRB's reported figure of 86% consolidation among public utility vehicle operators and drivers, asserting that only 43% are actually approved. Secretary Vince Dizon, who recently assumed office, stresses the government's commitment to modernization without disrupting livelihoods. The DOTr is preparing contingency measures, collaborating with the MMDA and LGUs to offer free rides to minimise inconvenience for commuters. As transport strikes have historically followed the modernization program since 2017, the current standoff highlights ongoing tensions between reform and traditional transit operations, reported Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-03-19

Pathum Thani Manhunt: Burmese Twins Wanted for Fatal Stabbing Photo via Facebook/ จิตศิกาญจน เล็กน้อยวงค์ Police in Pathum Thani are on the hunt for Burmese twins accused of fatally stabbing Hein Mintun outside an apartment in Lam Luk Ka. The grim incident unfolded around 7pm on Sunday, March 16, with CCTV footage capturing the events leading to Hein's tragic death. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355153-pathum-thani-manhunt-burmese-twins-wanted-for-fatal-stabbing/

Photo via Facebook/ จิตศิกาญจน เล็กน้อยวงค์ Police in Pathum Thani are on the hunt for Burmese twins accused of fatally stabbing Hein Mintun outside an apartment in Lam Luk Ka. The grim incident unfolded around 7pm on Sunday, March 16, with CCTV footage capturing the events leading to Hein's tragic death. The footage reveals Hein in conversation with the tomboys, known as Mo and Khun, before a sudden violent assault resulted in fatal chest and stomach wounds. Despite Hein's desperate attempt to escape and seek help, he succumbed to his injuries at the scene while the twins fled on a black and white Yamaha Fino motorcycle, whose registration remains a focus of investigation. While police initially suspect a possible debt motive, they lack conclusive evidence to support this claim. Conversations with Hein's roommate shed no light on the motive; he recounted an ordinary afternoon cooking together before Hein left to meet "friends" after receiving a phone call. The twins and Hein had previously worked together at a chicken factory before Hein moved to an aluminium job. Friends recall seeing the trio fish together, with no known discord noted among them. Efforts to locate Mo and Khun continue, as officers meticulously sift through security footage to trace their escape route. As the investigation progresses, Pathum Thani's community remains on edge, eager for answers in this unsettling case, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-19

Lop Buri Seeks Capture of 800 Monkeys to Manage Urban Mischief Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In Lop Buri, officials are set to capture up to 800 monkeys around the historic Phra Prang Sam Yot, following last year's successful entrapment of over 2,400 to curb disruptions. This effort, part of the province’s annual initiative, focuses on population control of the monkeys, known for causing havoc in urban areas. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355152-lop-buri-seeks-capture-of-800-monkeys-to-manage-urban-mischief/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In Lop Buri, officials are set to capture up to 800 monkeys around the historic Phra Prang Sam Yot, following last year's successful entrapment of over 2,400 to curb disruptions. This effort, part of the province’s annual initiative, focuses on population control of the monkeys, known for causing havoc in urban areas. On March 18th, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) and local authorities made strides in managing the situation by preparing to relocate more than 300 monkeys. Captured previously yet pending sterilisation, these monkeys have become a priority for the Lop Buri municipal animal hospital's latest sterilisation campaign. A dedicated team of over 20 veterinarians is stationed in Lop Buri to conduct health checks, sterilise, and tattoo the monkeys for identification purposes. This forms part of the comprehensive plan to stabilise the monkey population for the 2025 fiscal year. The new capture operation is slated to commence on March 23, 2025. Locations will include Phra Prang Sam Yot and the Kosah community, aiming initially for 500 to 800 monkeys to prevent their expansion into residential and commercial sites. Delays in previous rounds were noted due to incomplete trapping infrastructure, allowing some monkeys to wander into homes and raise public concern over potential disturbances. As Lop Buri navigates these challenges, capturing and managing the monkey population remains a priority to maintain urban harmony, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-19

Thai Officer Entertains on Duty, Faces Scrutiny Photo via TikTok/ kea_kea5 A Thai police officer has ignited controversy after videos surfaced of him singing on stage while in uniform at an Ayutthaya entertainment venue. The clips feature the officer performing Labanoon's hit song, "191," prompting divided reactions among netizens. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355151-thai-officer-entertains-on-duty-faces-scrutiny/

Photo via TikTok/ kea_kea5 A Thai police officer has ignited controversy after videos surfaced of him singing on stage while in uniform at an Ayutthaya entertainment venue. The clips feature the officer performing Labanoon's hit song, "191," prompting divided reactions among netizens. In the footage, the policeman holds a microphone and a rose, gifted by an audience member, capturing attention with his brief but spirited rendition before returning to his duties. Viewers largely praised his performance as refreshing and a step towards a more personable police image. However, what began as a charming gesture has turned serious for the officer, as police authorities have announced his transfer from Uthai Police Station to the Royal Thai Police headquarters. A committee will review his decision to sing while on duty, and his actions will now be closely scrutinised. This has sparked lively debate. Some insist that the officer's behaviour was inappropriate for someone on duty, while others view the response as excessive, arguing his actions were innocuous and improved public relations. Critics have also drawn comparisons to perceived leniency in handling cases of corruption among senior officers, suggesting a disparity in disciplinary actions. As the investigation unfolds, the incident highlights ongoing tensions around authority, image, and accountability within Thai policing, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-19

Modified Tractor Exhaust Leads to Family Dispute in Uthai Thani Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod In a burgeoning drama from Mueang Lansak district, Uthai Thani, police found themselves at the centre of a social media storm after addressing noise complaints about a local farmer's modified tractor exhaust. The incident unfolded on the morning of March 16th, when Lieutenant Naruepol Chanthates and his patrol team discovered Kamphon, 37, had altered his tractor’s exhaust, increasing noise levels much to the dismay of nearby residents. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355150-modified-tractor-exhaust-leads-to-family-dispute-in-uthai-thani/

Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod In a burgeoning drama from Mueang Lansak district, Uthai Thani, police found themselves at the centre of a social media storm after addressing noise complaints about a local farmer's modified tractor exhaust. The incident unfolded on the morning of March 16th, when Lieutenant Naruepol Chanthates and his patrol team discovered Kamphon, 37, had altered his tractor’s exhaust, increasing noise levels much to the dismay of nearby residents. Instead of an arrest—which sparked online debates—the officers issued a warning, urging Kamphon to return the exhaust to its original state. In a reflection of community tensions, police were initially called by family members reporting a sibling dispute over the loud exhausts. This tractor tumult extended beyond Kamphon, affecting neighbours like Jui, 27, whose husband had angrily confronted another relative about the continuous noise. The situation was exacerbated when the neighbour involved the police over the heated exchange. Manop, a community leader from Village 7, clarified that the unfortunate noise was during tractor repairs, urging understanding of police actions in response to public complaints. Officers made it clear: by warning, not punishing, their aim was compliance, not conflict. As the dust settles, residents are reminded of the delicate balance between farm needs and community peace, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-19

Drug Smugglers Caught with 54kg Meth at Udon Thani Airport Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Two men have been arrested after attempting to smuggle a massive haul of 54 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine on a domestic flight. The audacious attempt shocked authorities due to the smugglers' clever methods to bypass airport scanners, raising concerns over airport security. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355149-drug-smugglers-caught-with-54kg-meth-at-udon-thani-airport/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Two men have been arrested after attempting to smuggle a massive haul of 54 kilogrammes of crystal methamphetamine on a domestic flight. The audacious attempt shocked authorities due to the smugglers' clever methods to bypass airport scanners, raising concerns over airport security. The suspects, 42-year-old Masabree Jema and 31-year-old Natmee Sameang, were apprehended following a thorough inspection triggered by suspicious behaviour and unusual scanner readings at Udon Thani International Airport. The drugs, ingeniously concealed in green vacuum-sealed tea bags wrapped in aluminium foil, were discovered in their luggage. A press conference held at the Provincial Police Headquarters in Udon Thani detailed the joint efforts of local officials to apprehend the suspects. They revealed the intricate methods used by the smugglers, who admitted to receiving 20,000 baht each for transporting the drugs. The journey involved flying from Hat Yai to Don Mueang Airport, then on to Udon Thani, where a contact from Laos facilitated the exchange of the suitcases containing the illicit substance. Despite the suspects claiming their inexperience in such activities, the advanced techniques used to shield the drugs from detection suggest otherwise. The current street value of the haul is estimated at 50 million baht (roughly US$1.48 million), indicating the severity of the crime. Authorities remain tight-lipped about the identity of the financier, as investigations continue to dismantle the broader drug trafficking network behind this operation. This incident not only highlights the ongoing battle against drug smuggling but also underscores the need for heightened airport security measures to combat ever-evolving smuggling tactics, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-19

Thai Man Arrested for Blackmailing Young Girl in Lewd Video Call Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a disturbing turn of events, a 26-year-old man from Nan Province has been apprehended for allegedly luring a young girl into engaging in a lewd video call and subsequently blackmailing her. The suspect, identified as Chanoknan, was arrested on March 18th by senior officers, including Police Lieutenant Generals Siam Boonsom and Napasilp Phulsawat. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355147-thai-man-arrested-for-blackmailing-young-girl-in-lewd-video-call/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a disturbing turn of events, a 26-year-old man from Nan Province has been apprehended for allegedly luring a young girl into engaging in a lewd video call and subsequently blackmailing her. The suspect, identified as Chanoknan, was arrested on March 18th by senior officers, including Police Lieutenant Generals Siam Boonsom and Napasilp Phulsawat. This arrest comes on the heels of a warrant issued by the Chiang Mai provincial court. The charges against Chanoknan include possession of child pornography for sexual exploitation, a serious crime highlighted in the case. Chanoknan was found working at a homeless shelter, an ironic twist given his fugitive status. This apprehension is part of a larger effort by the Royal Thai Police and the Metropolitan Police Bureau to crack down on individuals with sexual offence warrants. Spearheaded by Police Sub-Lieutenant Yotchanchin Prasertsopa, the operation successfully traced Chanoknan’s location to his place of employment. During the interrogation, Chanoknan admitted to his indecent actions and confessed to sharing explicit content with peers who had similar predilections. Following his confession, he was detained and taken to Mae Rim Police Station, where legal proceedings will continue. The case underscores the commitment of Thai authorities to tackle sexual crimes, sending a clear message about their zero-tolerance policy, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-19

Fire at Udon Thani Hospital: Quick Response Prevents Major Tragedy - video Picture courtesy of อุดรธานี ชาแนล Facebook A fire erupted at the seven-storey outpatient and administrative building of Udon Thani Hospital, prompting the swift evacuation of patients by vigilant nurses and rescue personnel. Thanks to the rapid response of fire services, the blaze was quickly brought under control, with no injuries or fatalities reported. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355146-fire-at-udon-thani-hospital-quick-response-prevents-major-tragedy-video/