snoop1130

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. The next day, March 16, his family visited the detention cell around 10 am, only to find him unconscious with laboured breathing and a faint pulse. Despite efforts to save him, the Por Teck Tung Foundation confirmed his death shortly thereafter. Pairoh's family has revealed that he suffered from a heart condition and was a long-term drug user. The untimely death has prompted an investigation, with police already collaborating with prosecutors, forensic experts, and pathologists to determine the cause. An autopsy has been scheduled to ascertain the exact circumstances surrounding Pairoh's death. As investigations continue, the community awaits clarity and accountability from the authorities, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-17

Thailand Cracks Down on Foreign Tour Operators, 40 Licences Revoked Picture courtesy of Sumit Chinchane, Unsplash In an assertive move to safeguard its tourism industry, Thailand has intensified investigations into foreign-owned businesses and nominee operations in popular tourist hotspots. The Ministry of Tourism announced yesterday that it had revoked 40 tour operator licences in 2024, underscoring its commitment to uphold regulations that ensure such businesses are predominantly Thai-owned and operated. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354910-thailand-cracks-down-on-foreign-tour-operators-40-licences-revoked/

Picture courtesy of Sumit Chinchane, Unsplash In an assertive move to safeguard its tourism industry, Thailand has intensified investigations into foreign-owned businesses and nominee operations in popular tourist hotspots. The Ministry of Tourism announced yesterday that it had revoked 40 tour operator licences in 2024, underscoring its commitment to uphold regulations that ensure such businesses are predominantly Thai-owned and operated. Speaking on the matter, Natreeya Thaweewong, the permanent secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, highlighted the ongoing efforts to root out unlawful operations. Triggered by concerns from a former Phuket Member of Parliament, the ministry tasked the Department of Tourism with scrutinising business practices, ensuring compliance with the Tour Business and Guide Act of 2008. This legislation mandates that Thai nationals hold majority ownership and operational authority in tour companies, with foreign shareholders capped at 49%. The crackdown has been particularly focused on high-tourism areas such as Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and Koh Samui. In Phuket, tourism officials and the Tourist Police, with support from local associations, have been closely monitoring operations in notable locations like Wat Chalong and the Old Town. They actively seek out foreign operators potentially exploiting nominee loopholes. Under the Standard Operation Procedure Agreement (SOPA), a joint task force involving multiple agencies, including the Department of Special Investigation and the Tourist Police Bureau, has been formed. This collaboration serves to meticulously investigate high-risk applicants and assess irregularities in shareholder structures. Recent audits have revealed some companies modifying their composition to sidestep ownership laws. Notably, 15 licences in Phuket were annulled after discoveries of equal foreign and Thai board members. Additional findings indicated that some Thai nationals were repeatedly used in official capacities to ostensibly maintain Thai control. Despite these significant revocations, the Ministry of Tourism and the Department of Tourism plan to intensify efforts. Their strategy includes close cooperation with both governmental and private sectors to enforce legal operations and maintain international safety standards within Thailand's lucrative tourism industry, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-17

Thailand Considers Raising Retirement Age Amidst Ageing Crisis Picture courtesy of baanlalisa.com Thailand's Labour Ministry is in the midst of a fierce debate over a proposal to increase the retirement age from 55 to 65 years. This move, driven by Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, aims to strengthen the financial stability of the Social Security Fund (SSF), crucial in providing pensions and medical coverage to the country's populace. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354909-thailand-considers-raising-retirement-age-amidst-ageing-crisis/

Picture courtesy of baanlalisa.com Thailand's Labour Ministry is in the midst of a fierce debate over a proposal to increase the retirement age from 55 to 65 years. This move, driven by Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, aims to strengthen the financial stability of the Social Security Fund (SSF), crucial in providing pensions and medical coverage to the country's populace. With experts warning that the SSF could be depleted within the next three decades due to an expanding elderly population and a dwindling workforce, the government is exploring measures to extend the fund's lifespan. Among these measures is the prospect of gradually increasing the retirement age and introducing optional retirement schemes. In tandem, talks are underway to elevate the salary ceiling for SSF contributions, potentially rising to 23,000 baht by 2031, alongside urging a hike in the government's contribution from 2.75% to 5%. The SSF, Thailand's largest public fund valued at 2.65 trillion baht, supports 24 million members but faces scrutiny over its management. The proposal has sparked national discourse about the future of retirement in Thailand, with government officials engaging all stakeholders in these pivotal discussions. As the country braces for an ageing population, the outcome of these deliberations will be closely watched both domestically and internationally, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-17

Thai Lottery Draw Creates Two Millionaires, Splitting 60 Million Baht Prize Picture courtesy of Siamrath Two participants have struck it lucky in the latest Thai lottery draw, sharing a total prize fund of 60 million baht (£1.5 million). A life-changing 48 million baht prize went to a winner from Nakhon Si Thammarat, while another participant from Sakaeo secured 12 million baht. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354908-thai-lottery-draw-creates-two-millionaires-splitting-60-million-baht-prize/

Picture courtesy of Siamrath Two participants have struck it lucky in the latest Thai lottery draw, sharing a total prize fund of 60 million baht (£1.5 million). A life-changing 48 million baht prize went to a winner from Nakhon Si Thammarat, while another participant from Sakaeo secured 12 million baht. This thrilling outcome was unveiled at 4pm yesterday following the release of the winning numbers by the Thai Government Lottery Office. The winning ticket number was 757563, with additional winning numbers covering the front three-digits 595 and 927, back three-digits 457 and 309, and a two-digit number 32. The CEO of Lottery Plus, Phanawat “Nott” Nakwisut, played a pivotal role in this lottery draw, selecting the winning tickets and earning heartfelt gratitude from the winners. The draw announcement event featured popular actor Ko Tee Aramboy and over 60 customers as witnesses, ensuring transparency and assurance regarding the legitimacy of the lottery tickets. Amongst the winners, Mr. Khun Ti from Nakhon Si Thammarat took home the largest share with an astonishing 48 million baht from eight tickets. Meanwhile, Mr. Nachin from Sakaeo was elated with his 12 million baht prize, achieved with the aid of Phanawat, who had chosen the winning tickets for him. This remarkable draw not only birthed new millionaires but also reinforced the excitement and unpredictability of the lottery, bringing joy and prosperity to its lucky winners, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-17

Thailand Offers Free HPV Vaccinations to Young Girls and Women Thai Red Cross health worker prepares Covid-19 vaccine in 2021 | Photo via NHCR/ Morgane Roussel Hemery Thailand's Government is launching a vital health initiative, providing free cervical cancer vaccinations to girls and young women aged 11 to 20 until April's end. This decisive move, championed by the Ministry of Public Health, aims to curb the widespread impact of cervical cancer, a disease referred to as a 'silent killer' by Deputy Government Spokesperson Sasikarn Watthanachan. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354907-thailand-offers-free-hpv-vaccinations-to-young-girls-and-women/

Thai Red Cross health worker prepares Covid-19 vaccine in 2021 | Photo via NHCR/ Morgane Roussel Hemery Thailand's Government is launching a vital health initiative, providing free cervical cancer vaccinations to girls and young women aged 11 to 20 until April's end. This decisive move, championed by the Ministry of Public Health, aims to curb the widespread impact of cervical cancer, a disease referred to as a 'silent killer' by Deputy Government Spokesperson Sasikarn Watthanachan. Cervical cancer is commonly linked to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection transmitted via skin contact. Immunisation against HPV can significantly reduce the risk of developing cancers and genital warts associated with the virus. The vaccination programme will be available at no cost to the target group, offering a significant public health benefit. Eligible individuals can conveniently access the vaccines without the need for pre-registration. By simply presenting their identification cards, they can receive the vaccine at any of the 69 health service centres spread across the nation. These services are scheduled every Wednesday from 1pm to 3pm, with the programme running until 30th April. Furthermore, HPV vaccines are also being distributed to prathom 5 students within Bangkok Metropolitan Administration schools, ensuring comprehensive coverage. Sasikarn highlights that the initiative targets those unvaccinated or vaccinated over six months ago, promoting preventive health among young Thai women, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-17

Thai Tourists Escape Charges in Cannabis-Luggage Mix-Up in Japan - video Photo by Heng On Tour In an unexpected twist, a Thai couple on holiday in Japan narrowly avoided legal trouble when they mistakenly brought the wrong luggage—packed with 24 kilogrammes of cannabis—into the country. This remarkable story began when the couple, part of a tour group, flew from Surat Thani to Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, intending to continue to Narita Airport in Japan. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354905-thai-tourists-escape-charges-in-cannabis-luggage-mix-up-in-japan-video/

Photo by Heng On Tour In an unexpected twist, a Thai couple on holiday in Japan narrowly avoided legal trouble when they mistakenly brought the wrong luggage—packed with 24 kilogrammes of cannabis—into the country. This remarkable story began when the couple, part of a tour group, flew from Surat Thani to Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, intending to continue to Narita Airport in Japan. The couple had been given two suitcases by their daughter, but accidentally collected a wrong black suitcase at Suvarnabhumi Airport. The mistake went unnoticed until they reached Narita Airport and found themselves unable to unlock the suitcase. Upon opening it with the help of their tour guide, the stash of cannabis was discovered. This alarming discovery led to a prolonged session of questioning by Japanese customs, lasting over nine hours, as authorities worked to confirm the tourists' innocence. The couple, missing much of their planned itinerary, were finally allowed to leave after their story checked out. The original owner of the suitcase, believed to be a foreign national, had attempted to contact Suvarnabhumi Airport once he realised his luggage was misplaced. However, due to travel arrangements under the daughter’s name, communication snafus arose, delaying resolution. This incident has sparked discussions about the effectiveness of airport luggage checks, especially regarding drugs. In their defence, Suvarnabhumi Airport officials asserted that existing inspection technology failed to identify the cannabis within the luggage. The tour guide has urged future travellers to exercise extra caution when retrieving luggage, to avoid similar catastrophes. While no charges have yet been brought against the original owner of the suitcase, who purportedly reached South Korea, questions remain over potential legal consequences, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-17

Foreigner Assaults Thai Man in Road Rage Incident in Pattaya Photo via Facebook/ ตกใจหรอน้อง เห็นร้องส่ะดัง In Pattaya, a viral video has sparked widespread outrage as it captures a brutal altercation between a foreigner and a Thai man following a hit-and-run incident. Shared online by a Thai witness on March 16, the footage has ignited debate over tourist behaviour in Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354904-foreigner-assaults-thai-man-in-road-rage-incident-in-pattaya/

Photo via Facebook/ ตกใจหรอน้อง เห็นร้องส่ะดัง In Pattaya, a viral video has sparked widespread outrage as it captures a brutal altercation between a foreigner and a Thai man following a hit-and-run incident. Shared online by a Thai witness on March 16, the footage has ignited debate over tourist behaviour in Thailand. The incident began after an alleged collision between the foreigner's motorcycle and the Thai man's vehicle. The video, now widely circulated on social media, shows the foreigner physically attacking the Thai man, who attempts to defend himself amidst the chaos. Despite the intervention of a bystander, the situation escalated until a local motorcycle taxi rider stepped in, successfully pulling the aggressor away. As onlookers gathered, the victim claimed the foreign motorcyclist had fled after causing the crash. Witnesses expressed concern about confronting the foreigner due to his size and aggression, highlighting tensions over the perception of foreign tourists. Police were summoned after the incident and conducted questioning at the station. Though the foreign motorcyclist was fined, the exact amount remains undisclosed. The Thai man chose not to press charges further. The altercation underscores the ongoing challenges of managing tourist behaviour and ensuring justice, sparking conversations about safety and accountability in popular tourist destinations like Pattaya, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-17

Czech Man Found Dead at Koh Larn Cell Tower in Suspected Suicide Photo via DailyNews In a tragic incident yesterday, Czech national Dalibor Vacak, 54, was discovered lifeless near a 30-metre cell tower on Koh Larn, an island in Thailand's Chon Buri province. Authorities were alerted to the situation around 11:30 am and found Vacak dressed in a black hoodie, blue shorts, and grey socks, with both legs broken — indicating a fall as the likely cause of death. His untimely demise is suspected to have occurred five to six hours before his body was found. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354903-czech-man-found-dead-at-koh-larn-cell-tower-in-suspected-suicide/

Photo via DailyNews In a tragic incident yesterday, Czech national Dalibor Vacak, 54, was discovered lifeless near a 30-metre cell tower on Koh Larn, an island in Thailand's Chon Buri province. Authorities were alerted to the situation around 11:30 am and found Vacak dressed in a black hoodie, blue shorts, and grey socks, with both legs broken — indicating a fall as the likely cause of death. His untimely demise is suspected to have occurred five to six hours before his body was found. Vacak's identity was confirmed through documents in his backpack at the scene. Police learned he traveled to Koh Larn alone, rented a motorcycle for three days, but made no accommodation arrangements, leading them to suspect suicide. An autopsy has been scheduled to determine the precise cause of death, as authorities continue to coordinate with the Czech embassy to notify Vacak's family. This tragic event follows another suspected suicide on the island earlier this month, when the body of 48-year-old Japanese man Kazuhiro Ikeda was found. Photo via DailyNews While the investigation is ongoing, these consecutive incidents on Koh Larn have raised concerns amongst locals and tourists alike, prompting discussions about mental health awareness and support for travellers, reported The Thaiger. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai), or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress, or depression. Seek help. -- 2025-03-17

UPDATE: Thai Fishermen Find Body of Suspected Missing American Woman Photo via Facebook/ อบจ.ภูเก็ต – องค์การบริหารส่วนจังหวัดภูเก็ต Amid the serene waters between Koh Racha Yai and Koh He in Phuket province, Thai fishermen yesterday stumbled upon a grim discovery—a decomposed body, suspected to be that of the missing American, Nina Ng. The body was first noticed floating face-down by a local fishing boat, prompting officers from the Phuket Tourist Assistance Centre to examine the scene around 8.20am. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354825-body-of-foreign-woman-found-floating-in-sea-near-racha-island/#findComment-19665078

Thai Fishermen Find Body of Suspected Missing American Woman Photo via Facebook/ อบจ.ภูเก็ต – องค์การบริหารส่วนจังหวัดภูเก็ต Amid the serene waters between Koh Racha Yai and Koh He in Phuket province, Thai fishermen yesterday stumbled upon a grim discovery—a decomposed body, suspected to be that of the missing American, Nina Ng. The body was first noticed floating face-down by a local fishing boat, prompting officers from the Phuket Tourist Assistance Centre to examine the scene around 8.20am. While the gender of the deceased has not yet been confirmed, the attire—a dark blue T-shirt and pink shorts—matches the description of Ng, who disappeared in February. At that time, Ng, aged 38, rented a jet ski at Patong Beach and was last seen venturing offshore alone. The body showed signs of prolonged exposure to the elements; it was severely swollen and decomposed, with only the skull intact. Authorities have since retrieved the body, transporting it to Chalong Bay Pier for an autopsy, aiming to confirm the identity and ascertain the cause of death. The incident highlights the potential dangers faced by solo adventurers and underscores the need for caution while engaging in aquatic activities. As the investigation progresses, police in Phuket remain in close contact with American authorities, who have been assisting in the search for Ng since her disappearance, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-17

Mosquito Bite Triggers Chronic Illness in British Man Post-Holiday Picture of Ross Constable courtesy of The Daily Mail A seemingly harmless mosquito bite during a dream holiday in Thailand turned nightmarish for Ross Constable, a 48-year-old art teacher from Timperley, Cheshire. Upon returning from his family trip to Phuket, Ross began experiencing severe symptoms, initially resembling flu. After extensive tests, he was diagnosed with dengue fever—a mosquito-borne illness known in tropical regions. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354902-mosquito-bite-triggers-chronic-illness-in-british-man-post-holiday/

Picture of Ross Constable courtesy of The Daily Mail A seemingly harmless mosquito bite during a dream holiday in Thailand turned nightmarish for Ross Constable, a 48-year-old art teacher from Timperley, Cheshire. Upon returning from his family trip to Phuket, Ross began experiencing severe symptoms, initially resembling flu. After extensive tests, he was diagnosed with dengue fever—a mosquito-borne illness known in tropical regions. However, it wasn't just dengue that changed Constable's life. He developed Tourette’s syndrome, a neurological disorder marked by tics that drastically impacted his daily life. While dengue fever doesn't directly cause Tourette’s, the neurological complications from his condition may have triggered it. Constable faced a cascade of health issues including anxiety, depression, and PTSD-like symptoms, which he tackles with support from family and friends, deciding against medication that left him feeling detached. Now, he uses his art as an outlet, with an upcoming exhibit at Hepplestone Art Gallery in Wilmslow on May 8. This aims to inspire others through the healing power of nature, support, and self-acceptance. Picture of Phuket Old Town courtesy of BucketListly Constable’s story highlights the unforeseen dangers lurking behind a single mosquito bite, offering a poignant reminder of the unpredictability of life and the resilience of the human spirit. His journey through illness and recovery illustrates that strength can emerge from the most unexpected places, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-17

Motorbike Clash: Tourist and Ladyboy Tussle on Pattaya Streets - video Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In the bustling seaside town of Pattaya, a heated exchange over a motorcycle unfolded at the break of dawn today, March 17. The conflict involved a foreign tourist and a local ladyboy, capturing the attention of passersby and sparking concerns about the area's safety for visitors. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354900-motorbike-clash-tourist-and-ladyboy-tussle-on-pattaya-streets-video/

German Man Behind Violent Tirade in Korat Dental Clinics Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In Korat, a wave of anxiety has descended upon dental clinics following a series of violent outbursts by a 41-year-old German man. Dentists, represented by Wivat Chatwongwan of the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Dental Association, have formally lodged complaints with the local police today, March 17, urging swift action against this foreign menace. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354899-german-man-behind-violent-tirade-in-korat-dental-clinics/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In the bustling seaside town of Pattaya, a heated exchange over a motorcycle unfolded at the break of dawn today, March 17. The conflict involved a foreign tourist and a local ladyboy, capturing the attention of passersby and sparking concerns about the area's safety for visitors. The altercation began around 1am when a group of transgender women, familiar for mingling with tourists, gathered near the foreigner's parked motorcycle. The tourist requested that the ladyboy vacate the vehicle, prompting a fierce response: "Get your own motorcycle," he reportedly suggested. This comment, perceived as belittling, provoked an immediate and physical reaction. Video footage of the incident shows the ladyboy, later identified as 24-year-old Nong Fa Sai, delivering a swift slap to the tourist's face. The surprised foreigner retaliated by gently pushing her away, escalating the tensions amongst the group. Despite the heated exchange, the situation did not degenerate further. However, the incident has ignited discussions among locals and officials who emphasise the need to maintain Pattaya's reputation as a safe and friendly destination for global tourists. Nong Fa Sai later explained that the remark about owning a bike felt demeaning. "He acted like we were inferior because we didn’t have our bikes," she said, giving insight into her reaction. Pattaya's unique night-time economy is often the backdrop for such dramas. Nonetheless, local residents urge the authorities to implement measures ensuring all tourists feel welcomed and secure, curbing similar confrontations in the future, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-17

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In Korat, a wave of anxiety has descended upon dental clinics following a series of violent outbursts by a 41-year-old German man. Dentists, represented by Wivat Chatwongwan of the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Dental Association, have formally lodged complaints with the local police today, March 17, urging swift action against this foreign menace. The man, seen in a viral video from a shopping centre on March 13, launched an aggressive tirade at a dental clinic, which escalated to him invading private areas and terrifying staff members. Worryingly, he has been on this rampage since November 2014, yet the issue remains unresolved. In a particularly alarming incident, captured on 30 November last year, the man forcibly entered a clinic, attacking a female dentist by biting her lip and banging her head against a wall. This left her traumatised, unable to continue her work. Wivat highlighted the man’s unchecked aggression, compounded by his refusal to follow psychiatric guidance, which has allowed his behaviour to spiral dangerously. Despite his marriage to a Thai citizen and settled life in Korat, the man’s actions have instilled widespread fear. His history of violence abroad and ongoing threats amplify the danger facing the local community. The attacker’s erratic behaviour, reportedly self-medicated with marijuana since leaving psychiatric treatment in Germany, remains unchecked. Local authorities have yet to act decisively, leaving clinics under the constant shadow of his unpredictability. Wivat stressed the potential for future violent incidents, pleading for protective measures to safeguard the fearful community. The ripple effect of his menacing actions has left dental professionals on edge, worried for their safety and the wellbeing of their patients, as the German's unsettling presence continues to cast a dark cloud over Korat, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-17

Phuket Land Dispute Intensifies Over Freedom Beach Designation Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News A heated land dispute has erupted over Phuket's Freedom Beach, as the heirs of former landowner Panthong Na Ranong seek to halt its recent designation as a recreational forest. The family's legal representatives petitioned the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) in Phuket, arguing that unresolved land rights should be addressed before the area's classification as protected land becomes official. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354627-phuket-land-dispute-intensifies-over-freedom-beach-designation/