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File photo for reference only In a landmark case, the People's Court of Hải Dương has concluded a significant trial involving a money laundering ring operated across northern Vietnam. The trial revealed startling details about an intricate network that funnelled illicit funds through Vietnamese bank accounts into digital cryptocurrencies, further masking their origins. Between December 2023 and April 2024, in Hải Dương and neighbouring areas, Hoàng Đình Hiển and Nguyễn Văn Hậu orchestrated the acquisition and sale of 132 bank accounts. These accounts eventually ended up with three Taiwanese nationals: Tai Ching Yu, Lin Xin Ying, and Wang Pei De. The trio based themselves in an apartment in Bắc Ninh City, where they executed their operations. The group received over US$6.5 million from overseas accounts. This money was converted into more than VNĐ162.6 billion and mostly transferred into cryptocurrencies, with the intent to hide its criminal origins. Hải Dương's police managed to intercept and seize over VNĐ2 billion before conversion. The court handed down hefty sentences, with the Taiwanese operatives receiving 14 years each for their roles in storing illegal bank information and money laundering. The Vietnamese accomplices, Hậu and Hiển, were sentenced to 1 year and 3 months for trading bank account data. This case underscores the serious clampdown by Vietnamese authorities on financial crimes and their commitment to cross-border cooperation in tackling money laundering, reported Vietnam News. -- 2025-03-17

File photo for reference only Vietnam's rice industry is grappling with a challenging period as a combination of increased global supply and dwindling demand has led to a sharp decline in rice prices. The situation has prompted Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh to issue Directive No. 21/CD-TTg on 4th March, addressing the urgent need to balance rice supply and demand. The directive aims to stabilise the domestic market while capitalising on export opportunities, ensuring that both farmers and businesses benefit fairly. Farmers across the Mekong Delta, including provinces like Tien Giang, find themselves in a precarious situation. Despite a strong harvest, the selling price for their rice has plummeted. Nguyen Van Minh, a farmer from Tien Giang Province, described how promised prices of 6,800 VND per kilogramme at the season’s start collapsed to 5,100 VND by harvest time, forcing farmers to accept losses. The price drop is largely attributed to a record-high expected global rice production of 532.7 million tonnes in 2025, with total supply reaching 712.15 million tonnes. However, global trade is predicted to decline to 58.5 million tonnes, exacerbating the pressure on rice-exporting countries like Vietnam. To address these challenges, the Prime Minister's directive sets out measures such as monitoring global market trends, revising current trade regulations, and encouraging modernised production and storage methods. The Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Ministry of Finance are directed to refine policies to support businesses engaged in rice trade, particularly those impacted by fluctuating prices. In tandem, the Ministry of Agriculture aims to enhance rice quality by promoting high-quality strains and diversifying rice products to meet international demands. Key export markets include the US, EU, China, and Africa, with targeted efforts to boost market presence. Financial strategies are also being considered to provide businesses with the necessary resources to manage stock effectively and avoid the pitfalls of selling at low prices. This includes potential tax incentives and credit extensions. By proactively adapting its strategies, the Vietnamese government hopes to safeguard the agricultural sector's sustainability and protect farmers' livelihoods amid challenging global economic conditions, reported Nhan Dan. -- 2025-03-17

Image screenshot from video In northern Vietnam's Vinh Phuc Province, two women were caught in a dangerous stunt, posing for photos on railway tracks with a moving train just meters away. On 12th March, around 5:20 p.m., near Huong Lai Station in Vinh Yen City, the train driver persistently honked, a warning the women ignored, as they stood on the tracks. Video footage swiftly circulated on social media, showing the women stepping aside only when the train was a mere five meters from them. In a bid to express his frustration, the driver resorted to splashing water at them. The incident has sparked an investigation by the Traffic Police Department under the Ministry of Public Security. Vietnam Railways Corporation confirmed the risky occurrence, underscoring the serious nature of the breach. Under Vietnamese law, posing on railway tracks can lead to administrative fines ranging between VND300,000 to VND500,000 (£9 - £15). The reckless behaviour highlights a growing concern over safety on railway infrastructures, prompting authorities to urge compliance with safety regulations, reported VN Express. -- 2025-03-17

File photo for reference only The Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has urgently called for an intensified effort to combat the increasing number of measles cases nationwide. With nearly 40,000 suspected cases and five reported measles-related deaths recorded this year, the government has underscored the urgency of completing a vaccination campaign by the end of the month. The Health Minister has been tasked with ensuring adequate vaccine provision and timely distribution across local communities. The government is pressing local provinces and cities to evaluate their local measles status and devise strategic vaccination plans, particularly focusing on high-risk areas. Many mountainous and remote regions, which face accessibility challenges, are identified as potential outbreak zones due to low vaccination rates. Schools have been instructed to implement preventive measures, monitoring student health and aiding quick interventions if cases arise. Meanwhile, the media plays a pivotal role in disseminating comprehensive updates and educating the public, crucially in remote and ethnically diverse regions. At a recent national conference on measles prevention, Health Minister Dao Hong Lan highlighted the complexities introduced by climate change, emphasising the need for comprehensive cooperation across sectors. The southern region has reported the highest measles cases. Provinces like Da Nang and Gia Lai, among others, are currently on high alert as they experience a spike in incidents. Alarmingly, data indicates many affected individuals are children under 15, reflecting a concerning gap in community immunity with vaccination rates hovering at only 40% in certain areas. Minister Dao Hong Lan has urged for swift deployment of medical resources, especially in vulnerable regions, to prevent a further rise in cases. With the stakes high, Vietnam is moving urgently to bolster its defences against this escalating public health challenge, reported VN Express. -- 2025-03-17

File photo for reference only In an unexpected twist in Philippine politics, a petition has been lodged seeking the disqualification of Leyte 4th District Representative Richard Gomez from the upcoming May 12 midterm elections. The allegation, brought by Ramon's Oñate, a mayoral candidate in Palompon, claims Gomez spread false and alarming information on his official social media account. The petition, spanning 25 pages, accuses Gomez of posting content on his Facebook page that warned of significant election misconduct in Palompon. This content, the petition argues, was designed to disrupt the electoral process and create voter confusion. A key piece of evidence in the petition is a video from the radio programme "Krusada sa Radyo," which Gomez allegedly reposted, amplifying the claims of misconduct. Oñate underscores his concern that such activities could skew the election results and requests that any votes for Gomez be rendered invalid. Furthermore, he asks for the suspension of any electoral victory declaration in Gomez’s favour until the case is conclusively resolved. As the election date approaches, the Commission on Elections faces the urgent task of addressing these allegations to ensure the integrity of the democratic process in Leyte. The outcome could set a significant precedent for handling election-related misinformation in the country, reported Philippine News Agency. -- 2025-03-17

File photo for reference only In a landmark development, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has been apprehended by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged crimes against humanity. This follows the ICC's pursuit of justice for thousands of extrajudicial killings during Duterte's notorious "war on drugs," which he aggressively pushed throughout his tenure, both as Davao City mayor and President. Background: Duterte initiated the Philippines' withdrawal from the ICC in March 2018, amid rising scrutiny from the court regarding his brutal anti-drug campaign. Despite the Philippines formally leaving the ICC in 2019, the court retains jurisdiction over alleged crimes committed while the country was still a signatory. The ICC’s jurisdiction covers the period from November 2011 to March 2019, enabling it to investigate the egregious acts linked to Duterte’s rule. This inclusion extends to his earlier role as the mayor of Davao City, where similar campaigns of violence against suspected drug offenders were prevalent. Human rights organisations, notably Karapatan, argue that Duterte’s arrest highlights the void in the Philippines' justice mechanisms, having labeled domestic attempts to provide justice as ineffective due to the low conviction rate of police officers implicated in the drug war killings. Duterte’s close allies, former police chiefs, are also under investigation by the ICC. Figures such as Bato dela Rosa and Oscar Albayalde are cited for their pivotal roles in carrying out Duterte’s drug policies. The international community observes this unfolding situation as a test of justice and human rights accountability in the Philippines. Rights advocates stress the importance of independently strengthening the country’s justice system to ensure accountability extends beyond this high-profile case. Calls to rejoin the ICC are echoed, alongside demands for systemic reforms to provide a robust justice system capable of addressing human rights abuses domestically. While Duterte's arrest marks a significant step, many argue it is only the beginning of the arduous journey towards justice for the families of thousands who suffered under his administration’s vicious campaign, reported Philippine Star. -- 2025-03-17

File photo for reference only The Philippine Supreme Court has firmly dismissed social media claims suggesting a court session to deliberate on a supposed petition on March 17. Posts from Facebook accounts "Choose Libungan" and "Bernard Flores Maicon" falsely alleged that a document dated March 16 indicated a full court session convened by SC Spokesperson Camille Sue Mae L. Ting. In an official statement, Ting categorically denied the legitimacy of these claims, affirming that no such session nor statement exists. She clarified that the Supreme Court has neither received such a petition nor scheduled an En Banc meeting for the mentioned date. The Court further highlighted the persistent issue of disinformation, recalling a prior false report claiming a temporary restraining order issued on March 11, 2025. Ting assured that these instances of misinformation would be subject to investigation, with aims to hold responsible parties accountable. Ting urged the public to rely solely on verified communication from official Supreme Court channels—namely their website and authenticated social media accounts. She also encouraged people to meticulously verify any information before sharing it to curtail the spread of falsehoods, reported The Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-03-17

File photo for reference only In recent weeks, an unusual surge in fake news targeting Philippine pro-administration congressmen has emerged, with House Senior Deputy Majority Leader Sandro Marcos also becoming a victim. On March 17, the Ilocos Norte 1st District representative publicly addressed misinformation circulating on social media, particularly a post by Tee Media Corp., alleging that Marcos plans to run for the presidency in 2028. In response, the 31-year-old congressman, who is also the son of President Marcos, took to Instagram to caution his followers against the spread of misleading information. "Ingat po tayo sa misinformation campaign in the last few days," he advised, urging awareness. Moreover, a basic understanding of Philippine law should easily debunk such claims. By the 2028 presidential election, Marcos will only be 34 years old, falling short of the required minimum age of 40 to run for the position. Currently serving as a neophyte solon in the 19th Congress, Marcos is focused on his ongoing political career and is poised for reelection in the May 2025 district polls. This misapprehension highlights the pressing need for careful verification of information on social media, particularly in political contexts, reported The Manila Bulletin. -- 2025-03-17

Minister's Urgent Call to Save Thailand's Marine Life - video Picture courtesy of The Pew Charitable Trust Thailand's Minister of Natural Resources, Chalermchai Sri-on, has issued an urgent plea for collective action to combat the conservation crisis threatening seagrass and dugongs. Speaking at a turtle release event in Phuket, Chalermchai highlighted the dire need for collaboration among government, private sectors, and volunteers to safeguard these endangered marine species. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354921-ministers-urgent-call-to-save-thailands-marine-life-video/

Picture courtesy of The Pew Charitable Trust Thailand's Minister of Natural Resources, Chalermchai Sri-on, has issued an urgent plea for collective action to combat the conservation crisis threatening seagrass and dugongs. Speaking at a turtle release event in Phuket, Chalermchai highlighted the dire need for collaboration among government, private sectors, and volunteers to safeguard these endangered marine species. At the heart of the initiative is the Royal Thai Navy's significant progress in dugong conservation, although further efforts are crucial to rehabilitation due to ongoing habitat damage. Innovative approaches, such as developing food capsules for dugongs, are underway. Chalermchai urged fishermen to exercise caution when navigating seagrass habitats to avoid harm. A reduction in accidental dugong deaths signals progress, but misconceptions about their tusks persist, requiring public awareness. Chalermchai emphasized that boosting feeding grounds could support population growth and called for public backing of conservation efforts. The event, in honour of His Royal Highness Prince Dipangkorn Rasmijoti, included advanced conservation techniques like satellite tracking of green sea turtles. Two turtles were equipped with transmitters for long-term research on feeding grounds and survival rates, enhancing marine life understanding. Notable attendees, including Vice Admiral Suwat Donsakul, witnessed Chalermchai lead the release of rehabilitated turtles, Poseidon and Phrommin, underscoring successful conservation efforts. Drones showcased marine monitoring techniques in action, while exhibitions highlighted sea turtle conservation and biodiversity. Local citizen scientists were recognised for their contributions to dugong and seagrass monitoring, revealing Thailand's community-driven conservation efforts. Chalermchai reaffirmed the government's commitment to safeguarding marine biodiversity, urging continued partnership among all stakeholders to protect Thailand's vital marine ecosystems, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-17

Thai Tomboy Ends Romance Amid Bar Clash Over Glass Breakage Photo via Facebook/ สปอร์ตไลท์บางปู In a dramatic turn of events yesterday evening in Samut Prakan province, near Bangkok, a Thai tomboy, identified only as A, severed ties with her girlfriend following a chaotic incident at a local bar. The situation escalated when A refused to pay for a broken glass, leading to a confrontation with security guards. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354920-thai-tomboy-ends-romance-amid-bar-clash-over-glass-breakage/

Photo via Facebook/ สปอร์ตไลท์บางปู In a dramatic turn of events yesterday evening in Samut Prakan province, near Bangkok, a Thai tomboy, identified only as A, severed ties with her girlfriend following a chaotic incident at a local bar. The situation escalated when A refused to pay for a broken glass, leading to a confrontation with security guards. Around 11pm, officers from Bangpu Police Station responded to reports of a disturbance at an entertainment venue on Soi Bang Lam Phee. They found A, 25, bleeding from cuts on her foot, allegedly caused during a scuffle with bar personnel. Despite her wounds, A refused medical attention and instead leapt out of an emergency rescue van en route to the hospital, refusing treatment. The altercation reportedly began when A and another tomboy accidentally knocked over a glass while clinking drinks. The bar staff demanded 120 baht in compensation, which A declined to pay. Tensions rose, culminating in an argument with bar guards, during which A claimed she was pushed, injuring her foot. A’s girlfriend, however, stated that A injured herself after smashing an alcohol bottle in frustration. This assertion led to a heated exchange, ending with A announcing their breakup in front of the attending officers. Rescue teams and police attempted to mediate, urging A to seek medical treatment, but she remained adamant. The couple eventually departed the scene, leaving authorities to conclude their interventions for the night, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-17

Thai Woman Charged in Brutal Murder of Transwoman in Rayong Photo via KomChadLuek In a chilling case that rocked the eastern province of Rayong, Thailand, police arrested 36-year-old Malinee over the brutal murder of Wichai Aunruean, a 51-year-old transwoman. Authorities began the investigation after a local, Prasit Yeesunhom, reported the discovery of Wichai's body on March 14th in a roadside forest in the Pluak Daeng district, where he was fishing. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354919-thai-woman-charged-in-brutal-murder-of-transwoman-in-rayong/

Photo via KomChadLuek In a chilling case that rocked the eastern province of Rayong, Thailand, police arrested 36-year-old Malinee over the brutal murder of Wichai Aunruean, a 51-year-old transwoman. Authorities began the investigation after a local, Prasit Yeesunhom, reported the discovery of Wichai's body on March 14th in a roadside forest in the Pluak Daeng district, where he was fishing. Wichai, known for her vibrant red hair, was found clad in pink shorts and a striped shirt. The gruesome crime scene revealed a deep cut on her throat and wooden sticks inserted into her nose. Wichai, who lived in the Ban Khai district, supported herself by collecting recyclables and working on a rubber plantation. Using CCTV footage, police traced Wichai's last movements to a temple fair, where she departed with Malinee on a motorcycle. Later footage showed Malinee leaving the crime scene alone, prompting her arrest. During questioning, Malinee's erratic behaviour, including unexplained laughter, raised suspicions of mental illness. Wichai's ex-wife Orrasa expressed her devastation and disbelief at the incident while visiting the police station. Despite their divorce 30 years ago, Orrasa maintained a familial bond with Wichai, with whom she shares three children. She confronted Malinee, wanting answers for the horrific act. Malinee now faces severe charges under Section 288 of the Thai Criminal Code, with potential penalties including the death penalty, life imprisonment, or a 15-20 year prison sentence. The case continues to unfold as the community grapples with the violence and loss, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-17

Bhutan Seeks Thai Expertise to Boost Tourism Amid Cultural Festivities File photo for reference only With its majestic landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Bhutan is actively seeking to bolster its tourism sector by drawing from the expertise of Thailand. Recently, Bhutan invited Thai officials as tourism consultants to help refine its marketing strategies and improve accessibility for visitors. This initiative coincides with Bhutan's celebrated Punakha Tshechu festival, showcasing vibrant folk dances and masked performances at the historic Punakha Dzong. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354918-bhutan-seeks-thai-expertise-to-boost-tourism-amid-cultural-festivities/

File photo for reference only With its majestic landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Bhutan is actively seeking to bolster its tourism sector by drawing from the expertise of Thailand. Recently, Bhutan invited Thai officials as tourism consultants to help refine its marketing strategies and improve accessibility for visitors. This initiative coincides with Bhutan's celebrated Punakha Tshechu festival, showcasing vibrant folk dances and masked performances at the historic Punakha Dzong. Currently, Bhutan's attractions, such as the stunning Punakha Suspension Bridge, haven't drawn the expected number of tourists. Key challenges outlined by Thai experts include limited flight availability, inadequate marketing, and the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) of US$100 per person per day, which may deter potential visitors. Despite these hurdles, Thai officials remain optimistic about unlocking Bhutan's tourism potential, a move they believe could also boost tourism in Thailand. Bhutan adopts a high-value, low-impact tourism policy, using the SDF for development and environmental initiatives. The collaborative aim is to increase tourist arrivals to 300,000 by 2025, doubling the current numbers. Thailand stands ready to support this ambitious target, marking a new chapter in Bhutan’s journey to becoming a thriving tourist destination, reported Thai News Agency. -- 2025-03-17

Judicial Exam in Thailand: Police Colonel Faces Cheating Allegations Picture courtesy of อนันต์ อัศวกิตติกวิน Facebook In an unexpected turn of events, a police colonel was caught bringing a cheat sheet into an examination room for a position as a judge at the Administrative Court, authorities confirmed today. The incident, which occurred on 15th March at Thammasat University's Rangsit Centre in Pathum Thani province, quickly gained traction on social media, sparking public outcry. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354916-judicial-exam-in-thailand-police-colonel-faces-cheating-allegations/

Picture courtesy of อนันต์ อัศวกิตติกวิน Facebook In an unexpected turn of events, a police colonel was caught bringing a cheat sheet into an examination room for a position as a judge at the Administrative Court, authorities confirmed today. The incident, which occurred on 15th March at Thammasat University's Rangsit Centre in Pathum Thani province, quickly gained traction on social media, sparking public outcry. The Administrative Court's office addressed these concerns in a statement today, reassuring the public that, despite the breach, no examination content was leaked. The erring candidate had attempted to smuggle documents containing legal provisions into the exam room. However, the documents did not include any answers to the actual exam questions. Recognising the severity of the incident, the Royal Thai Police has taken decisive action. Police Lieutenant General Achyan Kraithong reported that the colonel, serving as Deputy Commander in Provincial Police Region 8 and recently attached to ISOC Region 4, is under investigation. Upon discovery, the Administrative Court contacted local police to initiate a probe, collecting evidence and taking the officer's statement. The National Police Commissioner, Police General Kittirath Phanphat, stressed the seriousness of the breach, ordering both a criminal and disciplinary inquiry. If found guilty, the colonel could face suspension or removal under the Police Act of 2022, Section 112 (6), a serious violation impacting the force's integrity. Furthermore, the circumstances around the officer's assignment to ISOC Region 4 and absence from the original unit will be scrutinised. The National Police Commissioner has declared zero tolerance for such misconduct, promising swift action to prevent similar breaches in the future, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-17

Juvenile Escapees Nabbed: Heat, Homesickness Cited as Reasons Picture courtesy of amarintv Yesterday, a dramatic escape unfolded at the Juvenile Observation and Protection Centre in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. Fifteen juveniles staged a breakout, citing unbearable heat and homesickness as their motivation. Armed with metal pipes, they daringly scaled the centre's fence and hijacked a motorcycle from a local resident. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354914-juvenile-escapees-nabbed-heat-homesickness-cited-as-reasons/

Picture courtesy of amarintv Yesterday, a dramatic escape unfolded at the Juvenile Observation and Protection Centre in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. Fifteen juveniles staged a breakout, citing unbearable heat and homesickness as their motivation. Armed with metal pipes, they daringly scaled the centre's fence and hijacked a motorcycle from a local resident. The incident triggered a rapid response, with local police and centre staff scouring the area. Twelve of the escapees were quickly apprehended thanks to CCTV footage that tracked their movements. The remaining three were later found, completing the recapture of all 15 escapees, who are now back at the detention centre undergoing further questioning. This centre is a key facility for juveniles in Nakhon Ratchasima, accommodating those awaiting court decisions for offences, often related to drugs or theft. The escapees' plight highlights potential challenges within the facility, particularly its capacity to provide adequate conditions amidst the region's harsh climate. The ordeal not only caught local attention but also prompted a meeting between the detention centre and police to address the situation. Parents of the juveniles have been notified and are expected to be involved in discussions about their children's future conduct and the institution's conditions, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-17

Phuket's Vachira Hospital Courts Global Patients for Weight-loss Surgery Vachira Phuket Hospital is making a decisive leap into the flourishing medical tourism arena by welcoming international patients for advanced weight-loss surgeries. With the demand for bariatric procedures at an all-time high, the hospital aims to solidify its position as a key contender in this competitive sector. Dr Thakoon Poonthananiwatkul, a senior surgeon with over a decade of expertise in bariatric surgery, highlighted the hospital's success in treating more than 3,400 patients. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354913-phukets-vachira-hospital-courts-global-patients-for-weight-loss-surgery/

Vachira Phuket Hospital is making a decisive leap into the flourishing medical tourism arena by welcoming international patients for advanced weight-loss surgeries. With the demand for bariatric procedures at an all-time high, the hospital aims to solidify its position as a key contender in this competitive sector. Dr Thakoon Poonthananiwatkul, a senior surgeon with over a decade of expertise in bariatric surgery, highlighted the hospital's success in treating more than 3,400 patients. The hospital’s practice is not only experienced but also internationally accredited by the US-based Surgical Review Corporation (SRC), ensuring adherence to the highest standards of patient safety and medical quality. According to Dr Thakoon, "Bariatric surgery is often a crucial intervention for individuals who find weight loss through traditional methods challenging or face severe health implications due to obesity." Since the introduction of these specialised surgeries in 2015, Vachira has built a renowned centre of excellence for bariatric procedures. Their SRC accreditation further enhances the hospital's allure for both local and international patients and bolsters Phuket's reputation as a health tourism hub. In recent years, the hospital has conducted between 500 to 700 procedures annually, managing a consistent influx of 40 to 50 patients monthly. With a daily operating schedule, Vachira's skilled team ensures a continuous stream of successful transformations. The hospital director, Dr Veerasak Lorthongkham, emphasised their commitment to elevating care quality, aiming to establish Phuket as a preeminent international medical destination. By targeting foreign residents initially, Vachira intends to expand its reach, promoting not only healthier lifestyles but also fostering economic growth through thriving medical tourism, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-17

Bangkok Races to Finish Transformative Kiakkai Bridge by 2026 Picture of the Kiakkai Bridge courtesy of Bangkok Post Bangkok’s city planners are in a race against time to complete the highly anticipated Kiakkai Bridge over the Chao Phraya River by 2026. This key infrastructure project is expected to greatly influence commuting in Bangkok, aiming to provide a more efficient route across the river. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354912-bangkok-races-to-finish-transformative-kiakkai-bridge-by-2026/

Picture of the Kiakkai Bridge courtesy of Bangkok Post Bangkok’s city planners are in a race against time to complete the highly anticipated Kiakkai Bridge over the Chao Phraya River by 2026. This key infrastructure project is expected to greatly influence commuting in Bangkok, aiming to provide a more efficient route across the river. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), led by Public Works Department chief Tawatchai Napasaksri, is spearheading this landmark initiative. The Kiakkai Bridge, located near the Dusit district, is a significant element of Bangkok’s strategy to enhance river crossings, with three distinct phases marking its development. The first phase focuses on construction of an elevated road on the Thon Buri side, which has faced hurdles due to delays in land acquisition, pushing the completion forecast to November next year. The second phase centres on building the main structure of the bridge and access ramps. Currently, this phase has reached 33.2% completion and is on schedule for December next year, with a tower crane soon to be assembled to facilitate the work. The project’s third phase, awaiting Cabinet budget approval, involves extending an elevated road from the river to the Saphan Daeng intersection on the Phra Nakhon side. Despite setbacks with other bridge initiatives, such as the Chan–Charoen Nakhon and Lat Ya–Maha Phruttharam projects, which have faced environmental and infrastructure challenges, the BMA remains determined. Efforts continue to untangle traffic congestion issues and build a more connected and efficient transport network for Bangkok residents. As the clock ticks, the ambition to complete Kiakkai Bridge by 2026 remains strong, with city officials dedicated to overcoming obstacles and crafting a brighter future for Bangkok's commuting landscape, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-17

Man Dies in Police Custody: Heart Condition and Drug Use Cited Picture courtesy of Matichon In a tragic incident, a 55-year-old man named Pairoh, whose surname remains undisclosed, passed away in custody at Khlong Tan Police Station. Pairoh was detained on March 15 for causing a disturbance at Soi Phatthanakan 10 Intersection 1, reportedly under the influence of alcohol. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354911-man-dies-in-police-custody-heart-condition-and-drug-use-cited/