snoop1130

Tuk Tuk Race in Bangkok Ends in Tragic Crash, Injury to Three Pictures courtesy of The Nation In a startling incident in Bangkok, a high-speed tuk tuk race turned catastrophic as two of the city's iconic three-wheeled vehicles collided, leaving three individuals seriously injured. The accident unfolded on March 3, at around 10pm on Ratchadaphisek Road, within the Chong Nonsi area, under the watch of Police Lieutenant Colonel Thiradej Sonklin from the Bang Phong Phang Police Station. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353549-tuk-tuk-race-in-bangkok-ends-in-tragic-crash-injury-to-three/

Pictures courtesy of The Nation In a startling incident in Bangkok, a high-speed tuk tuk race turned catastrophic as two of the city's iconic three-wheeled vehicles collided, leaving three individuals seriously injured. The accident unfolded on March 3, at around 10pm on Ratchadaphisek Road, within the Chong Nonsi area, under the watch of Police Lieutenant Colonel Thiradej Sonklin from the Bang Phong Phang Police Station. Eyewitnesses recounted the reckless scene of the two tuk tuks racing side by side, each vying to outpace the other. The race took a perilous turn when one driver made a dangerous lane change, leading to a collision that flipped their vehicle. Among the injured is 28-year-old Pichit, who was driving the overturned tuk tuk and is now in hospital with a severe head injury. The other driver and his passenger sustained broken legs. The police, now probing the incident, have initiated a comprehensive investigation, awaiting crucial blood alcohol test results to understand the drivers' conditions during the race. This event has sparked public outcry over the lax enforcement of traffic rules, with residents urging stringent measures to curb such risky behaviours amongst tuk tuk drivers, especially during quieter night-time hours. This unfortunate crash shines a spotlight on the need for increased safety awareness around these popular, yet potentially perilous, vehicles that dart through Bangkok streets, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Reckless Driver 'Pete Red Mazda' Under Fire for Motorbike Crash - video Photo via ThaiRath In a dramatic turn of events, Thai motorists, outraged by the reckless antics of 'Pete Red Mazda,' have initiated legal proceedings against the notorious driver. Known for his aggressive behaviour, particularly towards motorcyclists, Pete, whose real name isn't disclosed, became infamous after sharing controversial dashcam footage on Facebook. In his videos, he often blamed fellow road users for mishaps, including a recent high-speed collision with a motorcycle in Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353548-reckless-driver-pete-red-mazda-under-fire-for-motorbike-crash-video/

Photo via ThaiRath In a dramatic turn of events, Thai motorists, outraged by the reckless antics of 'Pete Red Mazda,' have initiated legal proceedings against the notorious driver. Known for his aggressive behaviour, particularly towards motorcyclists, Pete, whose real name isn't disclosed, became infamous after sharing controversial dashcam footage on Facebook. In his videos, he often blamed fellow road users for mishaps, including a recent high-speed collision with a motorcycle in Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok. The root of the public outcry stems from Pete’s latest dashcam footage, showcasing him recklessly overtaking vehicles before crashing into a motorcyclist. Instead of showing remorse, Pete accused the rider of causing the incident, even engaging in online exchanges mocking the victim. Outraged viewers quickly condemned Pete's actions, taking to social media to voice their support for the motorcyclist, identified as 49-year-old Jintakarn. Encouraged by public backing, Jintakarn pursued legal action, asserting that Pete’s driving constituted attempted murder. The resulting controversy spurred other motorists to come forward with their own allegations against Pete, painting a picture of a pattern of road rage and intimidation. This backlash intensified after a past photo of Pete surfaced, showing him with a gun in his vehicle, escalating concerns over his threatening behaviour. Pete's subsequent public apology, paired with pleas to spare his workplace from the fallout, did little to quell the uproar. His employers have since suspended him pending further investigation. As Pete remains elusive, having deleted his social media accounts, the Thai police continue their attempts to contact him. Meanwhile, the legal proceedings against Pete move forward, potentially setting a precedent for addressing reckless driving on Thailand's roads, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Daily Rentals in Bangkok Condos: A Growing Legal Dilemma Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In the bustling neighbourhood of Sukhumvit 11, a condominium is drawing ire from its residents and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). Allegations have surfaced that half of the building's 450 units are being rented out daily on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com. This has shone a spotlight on Thailand's ongoing struggle with enforcing short-term rental laws. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353547-daily-rentals-in-bangkok-condos-a-growing-legal-dilemma/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In the bustling neighbourhood of Sukhumvit 11, a condominium is drawing ire from its residents and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). Allegations have surfaced that half of the building's 450 units are being rented out daily on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com. This has shone a spotlight on Thailand's ongoing struggle with enforcing short-term rental laws. The root of the issue appears to be a lax enforcement of existing laws, such as the 1979 Building Control Act, according to which such rentals could be deemed illegal. Although the BMA conducted an inspection and identified these activities, no legal measures have been taken. A letter from the Wattana district office, sent in January, sought further details on unit owners violating these laws, but outcomes remain pending. A foreign resident, also a unit owner, expressed concerns over the disruptive nature and safety risks brought by these transient guests. He highlighted that daily check-ins have been organised, and housekeeping services are visibly operating to accommodate the continuous flow of guests. The situation exacerbates as signs prohibiting such rentals have been removed. Speculation surrounds a Taiwanese national, who since mid-2022 has chaired the condo’s board and is allegedly managing the rental operation. Furthermore, claims suggest that a significant portion of these arrangements involve long-term lessees subletting units for short stays, with some owners possibly unaware of the breach in legality. The condo developer is reported to have actively participated by allocating units for this scheme. The juristic management recently shifted to a company linked to a prominent firm on the Stock Exchange of Thailand, yet this has done little to curb daily rentals. Patcha Techaruvichit of the Thai Hotels Association highlighted that the phenomenon extends beyond Sukhumvit 11, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Pratunam Market. She emphasised that, while some countries are adapting to the model, Thailand ought to tread carefully, given potential safety discrepancies compared to standard hotels. The issue underscores a broader trend of weak law enforcement, leaving many residents like our source frustrated and helpless, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Thai Court Allows Class-Action on CPF's Role in Blackchin Tilapia Invasion File photo for reference only In a significant legal development, the Bangkok South Civil Court has greenlit a class-action lawsuit against Thailand's major agro-industry player, Charoen Pokphand Foods PCL (CPF). The case, fueled by farmers, accuses the conglomerate of environmental harm due to the invasive blackchin tilapia disrupting local ecosystems. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353546-thai-court-allows-class-action-on-cpfs-role-in-blackchin-tilapia-invasion/

File photo for reference only In a significant legal development, the Bangkok South Civil Court has greenlit a class-action lawsuit against Thailand's major agro-industry player, Charoen Pokphand Foods PCL (CPF). The case, fueled by farmers, accuses the conglomerate of environmental harm due to the invasive blackchin tilapia disrupting local ecosystems. The lawsuit alleges that CPF's operations have led to the unchecked spread of this tilapia species, negatively impacting native fish and aquaculture, thus threatening farmers' livelihoods. Despite the court's move, CPF has not yet been deemed liable. Maintaining a firm stance, CPF denies these accusations, asserting compliance with international environmental standards and sustainability practices. They plan to appeal the decision and present scientific data to support their claims. The court clarified that this class-action approval aims to simplify the legal process for affected farmers but stressed that further hearings are necessary to determine CPF's accountability. This ruling marks a crucial step in the ongoing battle over environmental responsibility and corporate practices in Thailand, reported Thai News Agency. -- 2025-03-04

Discover Thailand: Google Maps Highlights Must-Visit Locations File photo for reference only Thailand has once again emerged as a global travel hotspot, thanks to Google Maps revealing the country's most reviewed locations in celebration of its 20th anniversary. From vibrant street food stalls to awe-inspiring temples and lush national parks, Thailand’s allure captivates both locals and international visitors. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353544-discover-thailand-google-maps-highlights-must-visit-locations/

File photo for reference only Thailand has once again emerged as a global travel hotspot, thanks to Google Maps revealing the country's most reviewed locations in celebration of its 20th anniversary. From vibrant street food stalls to awe-inspiring temples and lush national parks, Thailand’s allure captivates both locals and international visitors. Over the past 20 years, Google Maps has transformed travel from mere navigation to a comprehensive guide with real-time updates and insightful reviews that influence tourism worldwide. In Thailand, data highlights popular spots that leave lasting impressions on travelers. Food is a major attraction, with diverse dining options ranging from street food to upscale restaurants, leading the reviews. Most Reviewed Restaurants: Pu Pen Seafood Restaurant, Chon Buri: 15,862 reviews Tandoori, Phuket: 15,854 reviews Chocolate Ville, Bangkok: 14,548 reviews Sukishi Teenoi, Samut Prakan: 14,237 reviews Nana Plaza, Bangkok: 14,108 reviews Most Reviewed Cafés: Maidreamin MBK, Bangkok: 17,380 reviews The Village Farm To Café, Kanchanaburi: 12,725 reviews Café Phuket Viewpoint, Phuket: 8,662 reviews Plearn Café Bangpu, Samut Prakan: 6,314 reviews Nami Dessert & Coffee by Chaokhun, Samut Sakhon: 5,684 reviews Thailand's spectacular natural beauty and historic sites are equally popular. Most Reviewed Parks and National Parks: Lumpini Park, Bangkok: 35,617 reviews Khao Yai National Park, Nakhon Ratchasima: 15,423 reviews Erawan National Park, Kanchanaburi: 14,016 reviews Most Reviewed Museums: The Sanctuary of Truth, Chon Buri: 26,932 reviews Jim Thompson House Museum, Bangkok: 14,412 reviews Baan Dam Museum, Chiang Rai: 12,298 reviews Most Reviewed Temples: Wat Arun, Bangkok: 39,926 reviews Wat Phra Kaew, Bangkok: 37,399 reviews Wat Pho, Bangkok: 33,154 reviews As Google Maps continues to guide travelers, these rankings provide a snapshot of Thailand’s unforgettable experiences, solidifying its status as a must-visit destination, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Phuket Locals Demand Action Against Foreign Beggars - video Photo by Aris Leoven via Canva Residents in Phuket's Patong area are calling for action against foreign women seen begging from tourists. Locals fear this could tarnish the province's reputation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353543-phuket-locals-demand-action-against-foreign-beggars-video/

Photo by Aris Leoven via Canva Residents in Phuket's Patong area are calling for action against foreign women seen begging from tourists. Locals fear this could tarnish the province's reputation. A video shared on March 3 by Newshawk Phuket shows two foreign women asking a man for money in Patong. After some persistence, the man gave them 20 baht to end the encounter. Despite wearing modest clothing and hijabs, the women did not appear needy. Their nationalities remain unknown. Residents shared similar encounters, expressing doubts about the women's situation. Some claimed the women work in groups and even hinted they might be wealthy, questioning their visa status. One local recounted, “They have been here over 15 years and even bought a house.” Many online critics urged local authorities to act, suggesting deportation or legal action against these women. Residents await a response from the local officials, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Wapi Pathum on Alert: Rabies Confirmed in Cattle In Wapi Pathum, Maha Sarakham province, a rabies scare has led to swift action after a cow was confirmed to have died from the disease. Local livestock officials are now racing to vaccinate dogs and cats in the area, while residents are temporarily avoiding beef consumption. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353541-wapi-pathum-on-alert-rabies-confirmed-in-cattle/

In Wapi Pathum, Maha Sarakham province, a rabies scare has led to swift action after a cow was confirmed to have died from the disease. Local livestock officials are now racing to vaccinate dogs and cats in the area, while residents are temporarily avoiding beef consumption. On March 3, the Mahasarakham Provincial Livestock Office reported a suspicious cow death in Ban Lomkhom, Na Kha subdistrict. Tests confirmed rabies, leading to the designation of a temporary rabies outbreak zone under the Animal Epidemics Act of 2015. Livestock officers have been seen vaccinating pets in Ban Wang Chan, Ban Wang Nuea, and Ban Wang Mai. Residents like Thongluean, who has four dogs, are keeping their pets safe with annual vaccines but are staying away from beef out of caution. Anchalee Khamsai, a specialist veterinarian, announced the outbreak restrictions. Movement of cattle, dogs, and cats is limited within a 5-kilometre radius as authorities monitor the situation. Residents are urged to keep pets vaccinated and beef farmers are advised to improve their farm defenses against rabies transmission, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Hot Spot Surge in Forests: Thailand's New Anti-Burning Measures Picture courtesy of MGR Online The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has intensified efforts across Thailand to monitor and control the increasing levels of PM 2.5 dust and illegal burning. Phasakorn Boonyalak, Director-General of the DDPM, highlighted that while air quality remains safe in central and southern regions, the north and northeast have hit orange pollution levels, indicating potential health risks. PM 2.5 levels should not surpass 50 µg/m³ to be deemed safe. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353539-hot-spot-surge-in-forests-thailands-new-anti-burning-measures/

Picture courtesy of MGR Online The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has intensified efforts across Thailand to monitor and control the increasing levels of PM 2.5 dust and illegal burning. Phasakorn Boonyalak, Director-General of the DDPM, highlighted that while air quality remains safe in central and southern regions, the north and northeast have hit orange pollution levels, indicating potential health risks. PM 2.5 levels should not surpass 50 µg/m³ to be deemed safe. The situation is critical in Ubon Ratchathani, where levels have reached the red alert zone. Until March 7, air quality will be closely monitored when expected rains might bring relief. As of March 2, 760 hot spots have been identified, mainly in forest reserves and agricultural lands. In Thailand, the highest numbers of these hot spots are found in Tak (154), Lampang (119), Chaiyaphum (50), Kalasin (34), and Sa Kaeo (34). Adding to the crisis, increasing hot spots in neighboring countries like Myanmar and Laos are worsening the air quality in northern and northeastern Thailand. In provinces like Ubon Ratchathani and Yasothon, PM 2.5 levels remain high, demanding urgent monitoring. Provinces, especially those with numerous hot spots, are urged to partner with agencies to curb these incidents. Authorities have ramped up efforts to stop illegal burning and introduced strict pollution control measures. Currently, 58 hot spots are reported in national forest reserves, with legal actions initiated against illegal burning. The crackdown has led to 28 cases against forest burners. The Department of National Parks revealed 46 hot spots in conservation areas, primarily in northern regions. As a proactive measure, 138 conservation areas have now been closed. Recent reports indicate a 4.51 million rai reduction in burned land for sugarcane production, showcasing progress in industrial pollution control. In Maha Sarakham, 259 hot spots were noted since January, primarily due to agricultural activities. Consequently, the province now implements a no open-burning rule, leading to 27 legal cases. Deputy Director-General of the DDPM, Saharad Wongsakulwiwat, lauded the agencies' efforts but insisted on stronger measures in high-risk areas. Initiatives to prevent cross-border pollution continue, with new public engagement strategies underway, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Exam Scandal: Chiang Mai Monk Faces Dismissal and Legal Charges File photo for reference only A senior monk from Chiang Mai faces criminal charges after an impersonation scandal during a crucial Pali examination in Bangkok. Minister Chusak Sirinil from the Prime Minister’s Office has urged legal action against the monk, who allegedly hired another monk to take the exam in his place. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353537-exam-scandal-chiang-mai-monk-faces-dismissal-and-legal-charges/

File photo for reference only A senior monk from Chiang Mai faces criminal charges after an impersonation scandal during a crucial Pali examination in Bangkok. Minister Chusak Sirinil from the Prime Minister’s Office has urged legal action against the monk, who allegedly hired another monk to take the exam in his place. The Chiang Mai ecclesiastical office quickly ordered the dismissal of the unnamed monk from his abbot position at a major local temple. He was also removed as head of the San Pa Tong district's clergy order. The impersonator was caught during the February 24-25 exam at Sanam Luang in Bangkok's Phra Nakhon district. A notice from Phra Thepmangkalachan, abbot of Wat Thaton and ecclesiastical governor, officially removed the monk from his responsibilities on March 2. This scandal not only broke Buddhist monastic rules but also violated religious integrity. Chusak has notified the National Office of Buddhism and stressed that the offense requires swift action due to its criminal nature. This incident shines a light on the lax oversight in regional monk exams compared to those in Bangkok, which may allow for similar fraudulent activities. The monk in question, reportedly 35, is known for often wearing sunglasses in public—an accessory his stand-in also wore during the exam but was visibly much older. An investigation is ongoing, and he may face consequences, including defrocking, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Bangkok Clears Street Food Vendors for a Cleaner Khlong Toei Market File photo for reference only Street food vendors at Bangkok's Khlong Toei Market 1 have been told to vacate by March 16. This move, led by Deputy Governor Jakkapan Phiewngam, aims to improve the look and pedestrian access along Ratchadaphisek Road in the Khlong Toei area. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353535-bangkok-clears-street-food-vendors-for-a-cleaner-khlong-toei-market/

File photo for reference only Street food vendors at Bangkok's Khlong Toei Market 1 have been told to vacate by March 16. This move, led by Deputy Governor Jakkapan Phiewngam, aims to improve the look and pedestrian access along Ratchadaphisek Road in the Khlong Toei area. Governor Jakkapan, along with Deputy Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Permanent Secretary Supakrit Boonkhant, recently visited the site to discuss the necessary changes. The focus is on clearing structures from the road section connecting Rama IV Road and Sunthon Kosa Road. About 35 vendors from Khlong Toei Market 1, spanning from Phek Leng Keng Shrine to Rama IV Road, will need to move their stalls. These vendors provide a range of street foods, including pork blood soup, BBQ pork rice, crispy pork, sweets, and fresh produce. There have been concerns about hygiene, with reports of improper waste disposal leading to blocked drainage and dirty conditions. Additionally, washing water from food prep has left pavements slippery and greasy, causing unpleasant smells and bacterial growth. Vendors must relocate to within Khlong Toei Markets 1 and 2 or other nearby markets by March 16. After this, the pavements will be reworked to be more pedestrian-friendly. Earlier, the BMA moved vendors off footpaths in Khlong Toei Market 2, known as the Lao Market, along Rama IV Road. This was part of an effort last December and January to improve the area's infrastructure and look. The BMA plans to create new hawker centers, providing vendors better-organized spaces for business, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Foul Smell Leads to Infant's Body Discovery in Ayutthaya Picture courtesy of Matichon Residents in the Sam Ruean subdistrict of Bang Pa-in, Ayutthaya, made a tragic discovery when they followed a foul smell to find an abandoned infant's body in a ditch. Despite the presence of monitor lizards in the area, the infant's body remained undisturbed. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353534-foul-smell-leads-to-infants-body-discovery-in-ayutthaya/

Picture courtesy of Matichon Residents in the Sam Ruean subdistrict of Bang Pa-in, Ayutthaya, made a tragic discovery when they followed a foul smell to find an abandoned infant's body in a ditch. Despite the presence of monitor lizards in the area, the infant's body remained undisturbed. On March 3, around 6:30 p.m., Police Lt. Thaworn Saengsai received reports from locals about the discovery of the baby's body wrapped in a large brown plastic bag amidst rubbish and overgrowth. The infant, of undetermined gender due to decomposition, may have been deceased for several days. A 49-year-old local, Sakchai, discovered the body while repairing a nearby fence. He was initially drawn to the site by a swarm of flies and the overpowering smell. Police and medical teams are actively investigating, seeking to uncover those responsible for this abandonment. The child's body is undergoing an autopsy at the Institute of Forensic Medicine in Pathum Thani to determine the cause of death. Authorities are determined to bring those responsible to justice as the investigation continues, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Pathum Thani Residents Alarmed by Discarded Fake Bomb Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Residents in Pathum Thani province were startled yesterday afternoon when they discovered several orange, stick-like objects resembling a bomb, complete with wires and a working timer, abandoned in a roadside rubbish bin. The suspicious find, located outside an empty commercial building on Semue Fa Kram Road, prompted immediate police action. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353533-pathum-thani-residents-alarmed-by-discarded-fake-bomb/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Residents in Pathum Thani province were startled yesterday afternoon when they discovered several orange, stick-like objects resembling a bomb, complete with wires and a working timer, abandoned in a roadside rubbish bin. The suspicious find, located outside an empty commercial building on Semue Fa Kram Road, prompted immediate police action. Police Lieutenant Colonel Setthawut Kamnama from the Khu Khot Police Station was alerted at 2 p.m. and quickly arrived at the scene with investigators. They found the concerning items in a 200-litre green plastic bin positioned by a utility pole outside the former office building, now unoccupied. The objects were five to six orange sticks, each a cubit in length, bound together and attached to a running timer, convincingly mimicking an explosive device. After securing the location and keeping anxious locals at a safe distance, police examined the items and determined they were fake. Further investigation revealed the items were likely props from a closed company that used to create YouTube content. A former employee indicated that these dummy explosives might have been used in filming. The company, which specialized in game content, crafted specific props as needed. With the business no longer in operation, these items were likely discarded, unintentionally causing panic when mistaken for a genuine bomb threat, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Thai Town on Edge: Teen Gangs Causes Late Night Chaos Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Samut Prakan province has been gripped by fear as groups of teenagers engage in violent confrontations, disrupting the peace for three consecutive nights. Residents have been on edge due to late-night clashes involving knives, sticks, firearms, and explosives, prompting urgent calls for police intervention. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353532-thai-town-on-edge-teen-gangs-causes-late-night-chaos/