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Picture courtesy of Saif Zaman ( আয়ান ), Unhsplash In a distressing turn of events, a passenger was seated next to a deceased woman for four hours during a Qatar Airways flight from Melbourne to Doha. The incident, unveiled by an Australian couple's report to their local TV station, criticised the airline's handling of the situation. According to the couple, the unforeseen event became their "worst experience," leading to widespread media attention. In response, Qatar Airways released a statement underscoring their sincere condolences to those impacted and affirmed their support for the deceased's family. The airline clarified that the crew acted with due diligence, providing alternative seating for other passengers and maintaining professional conduct. Qatar Airways assured that their staff are thoroughly trained for such emergencies, aiming to manage them respectfully. A comprehensive internal investigation corroborated that the crew adhered to industry standards, prioritising safety and dignity. Communicating compassionately, Qatar Airways is extending compensation and psychological aid to those affected, reinforcing their commitment to passenger welfare amidst unforeseen challenges, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-03

Inside Thailand's Market Boom: Largest Investment in a Decade PM Paetongtarn at Parliament addressing call centre scams on February 28 | Photo via Ing Shinawatra/Facebook Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is upbeat about Thailand's economic future, highlighting a surge in foreign investments that topped 1.13 trillion baht last year, the highest in a decade. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353402-inside-thailands-market-boom-largest-investment-in-a-decade/

PM Paetongtarn at Parliament addressing call centre scams on February 28 | Photo via Ing Shinawatra/Facebook Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is upbeat about Thailand's economic future, highlighting a surge in foreign investments that topped 1.13 trillion baht last year, the highest in a decade. In a recent "Empowering Thais" TV broadcast, the 38-year-old PM stressed the importance of political stability in attracting investors, while acknowledging last year's modest 2.5% GDP growth—a slight improvement from the previous year’s 2.0%. "The Pheu Thai government’s policies are starting to show results, with a 3.2% growth in the last quarter of the year," she said, pointing to initiatives like free visas and support for investments as key drivers. Since taking office, Paetongtarn has focused on boosting the economy through strategic fiscal measures and encouraging emerging industries. The Prime Minister acknowledged past challenges, such as a skilled labor shortage, particularly in sectors like semiconductors and electric vehicles. Looking ahead, global giants like Google, TikTok, and NVIDIA plan to increase their investments in Thailand. Meanwhile, the electric vehicle sector sees increasing activity, with Chinese and Japanese companies expanding their operations in the country. Paetongtarn pledged to continue driving economic growth, emphasizing the government's ambition to elevate Thailand’s GDP further. She also aims to bolster commercial bank lending to small- and medium-sized businesses, which account for 75% of the nation's enterprises. "The journey to a more prosperous Thailand has just begun, and we need cooperation from all sectors to make this leap," she concluded, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-03

French Tourist’s Phone Hijacked by Selfie-Loving Monkey - video Photo via TikTok/ @justinefortemps In a hilarious twist of events, a French tourist's encounter with a mischievous monkey in Phuket has gone viral on TikTok. The monkey swiped her phone and recorded a selfie! Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353401-french-tourist’s-phone-hijacked-by-selfie-loving-monkey-video/

Photo via TikTok/ @justinefortemps In a hilarious twist of events, a French tourist's encounter with a mischievous monkey in Phuket has gone viral on TikTok. The monkey swiped her phone and recorded a selfie! French TikTok user Justine Fortemps shared the video, aptly titled “Monkey Hill Attack,” which showcases the cheeky monkey grabbing her bright blue phone. The young monkey took a few moments to inspect its prize and its owner, before swiftly darting into a tree. Amazingly, the monkey recorded a selfie video, capturing both its face and its immediate surroundings. Fortunately, some helpful Thai locals managed to retrieve the wayward phone after a brief chase. The clip also features a comical scene where a monkey playfully tugs at Justine’s hair, while a helpful bystander intervenes to ensure she remains unharmed. Justine, embracing the monkey's unexpected creativity, even changed her profile picture to the selfie it took. The video was met with glee from Thai TikTok users, who flooded the comments section with humor: “Is this The White Lotus Season 3?” “The monkey wants to go viral on TikTok.” The light-hearted moment took place at Khao Toh Sae in Phuket’s Ratsada sub-district, a popular spot known for its stunning sunsets and playful wildlife. Luckily, Justine's tale had a happy ending with both her phone and spirits intact, unlike a Swedish tourist earlier this year who left a Lop Buri temple with a bite and a hospital visit, reported The Thaiger. This playful primate has not only captured a phone, but the hearts and laughter of many around the world! -- 2025-03-03

Lavish Lifestyle of UK Drug Lords Ends in Thailand Arrest Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail In a story as dramatic as a crime thriller, British siblings Joseph and Gregory Mulhare spun a criminal web stretching from the UK to exotic locales. For years, they maintained a lavish lifestyle, flitting between Ibiza, Tenerife, France, and America, funded by a high-stakes drug operation dealing in cocaine, ecstasy, and amphetamines. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353400-lavish-lifestyle-of-uk-drug-lords-ends-in-thailand-arrest/

Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail In a story as dramatic as a crime thriller, British siblings Joseph and Gregory Mulhare spun a criminal web stretching from the UK to exotic locales. For years, they maintained a lavish lifestyle, flitting between Ibiza, Tenerife, France, and America, funded by a high-stakes drug operation dealing in cocaine, ecstasy, and amphetamines. However, their empire crumbled spectacularly in November 2018 when Thai police, following a meticulous investigation, raided their hideout. The operation ended what was once considered an untouchable criminal network, thanks to insider-turned-informant Ronnie Bateman, who revealed secrets that brought the Mulhare’s secretive world into the light. Joseph, the mastermind, orchestrated a complex operation, managing everything from sunny Spain without directly touching drugs. He relied on his younger brother Gregory for hands-on logistics, maintaining connections with UK dealers and using encrypted communications for secrecy. Despite luxury travels and extravagant spending, Gregory’s financial affairs raised eyebrows. He had no declared income yet continued to jet-set, a lifestyle sustained by their illicit activities. The law ultimately caught up with them due to Bateman’s damning testimony during Operation Manhattan. He provided crucial details that confirmed investigators' findings, exposing the vast scale of the Mulhares’ criminal enterprise, including ecstasy production in Birkenhead and an amphetamine lab in Rock Ferry. The brothers' downfall was dramatic. After dodging police for over a year, they were captured in a well-coordinated international police raid that uncovered significant drug and cash seizures. Ultimately, £66,000 in cocaine, £208,000 in MDMA, £336,000 in amphetamine, £420,000 in cannabis, and £80,000 cash were confiscated. Faced with choosing justice in Thailand or the UK, the Mulhares opted for extradition to Britain. Their convictions—15 years for Joseph and 12 for Gregory—brought an end to their criminal reign, capturing public attention. The collapse of their empire impacted their network, leading to 24 individuals facing justice. Detective Chief Inspector Ian Hussey emphasized the complexity and challenge of the investigation, which brought down ringleaders Joseph and Gregory, who wrought havoc through their illegal activities. The Mulhares’ story serves as a sobering reminder of the perils of living on the wrong side of the law—luxury and secrecy shattered by relentless police work and the betrayal from within, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-03

Thai Vendor Calls Cops on Russian for Beer Theft Photo via Channel 7 In Rayong, Thailand, a 53-year-old Russian man named Mark caused a commotion at a local food stall. Owner Yupaporn, 35, called the police after Mark drank beer without paying and tried giving away more for free. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353185-thai-vendor-calls-cops-on-russian-for-beer-theft/

Photo via Channel 7 In Rayong, Thailand, a 53-year-old Russian man named Mark caused a commotion at a local food stall. Owner Yupaporn, 35, called the police after Mark drank beer without paying and tried giving away more for free. The incident unfolded at Yupaporn's som tum stall on Road 4006, where Mark picked a beer from her fridge. After drinking, he joined a group nearby and later attempted to take more beers for them. When denied, an argument ensued, with Mark coming uncomfortably close to Yupaporn, making her feel threatened. When the police arrived, Mark was heavily intoxicated and couldn’t communicate due to a language barrier. Using a translation app, Mark explained he was a retired Russian officer and was living in Thailand with his wife, who recently left him alone. Mark told police he had money to pay and wanted to treat the nearby group as well. However, the misunderstanding escalated, leading to his arrest. The police took him to the station to sober up before further questioning. There’s no update on whether Mark settled the bill with Yupaporn, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-28

Missing Businessman Discovered Dead by Rural Road Pictures courtesy of Chiang Mai News A well-known 57-year-old businessman, Dao Lucksaratanchok, was found dead beside a rural road in Mueang district, Phrae province, after disappearing overnight. His body was discovered next to his Toyota pickup truck with the licence plate บร 889 Phrae on February 27. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353184-missing-businessman-discovered-dead-by-rural-road/

Pictures courtesy of Chiang Mai News A well-known 57-year-old businessman, Dao Lucksaratanchok, was found dead beside a rural road in Mueang district, Phrae province, after disappearing overnight. His body was discovered next to his Toyota pickup truck with the licence plate บร 889 Phrae on February 27. Dao, owner of a water business, vanished after leaving his Ban Tonkhrai home around 1 pm on February 26 to attend to business matters in Ban Wiang, Rong Kwang subdistrict. His worried family searched through the night when he did not return by evening. The tragic scene was discovered by a villager early the next day, sparking shock among locals. Police Lieutenant Weerapat Wisai received the report at 7.20 am and informed Police Colonel Tharadol Hemmaphat. Upon inspection, authorities found no signs of foul play and ruled out any criminal activity. Medical experts at Rong Kwang Hospital determined that Dao died of heart failure, a natural cause. His family, not suspecting foul play, has begun preparing for funeral rites after his body was released. Dao's sudden death has impacted the community, as residents come to terms with the loss of a familiar face, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-28

Highway Hazard: Eucalyptus Log Crashes SUV in Phetchaburi In a startling incident today, February 28, a 4-meter eucalyptus log crashed into a Toyota Fortuner on the Pran Buri-Phetchaburi bypass road, sparking concerns about the safety of unsecured truck loads. Sinat Rungrueang, subdistrict mayor of Mueang district in Ratchaburi, narrowly avoided injury in the accident. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353183-highway-hazard-eucalyptus-log-crashes-suv-in-phetchaburi/

In a startling incident today, February 28, a 4-meter eucalyptus log crashed into a Toyota Fortuner on the Pran Buri-Phetchaburi bypass road, sparking concerns about the safety of unsecured truck loads. Sinat Rungrueang, subdistrict mayor of Mueang district in Ratchaburi, narrowly avoided injury in the accident. The mishap took place near the Cha-am interchange in Phetchaburi province as Sinat was returning from a business trip in Chumphon. Sinat described the terrifying moment when the log seemingly appeared out of nowhere, hitting the vehicle with tremendous force. The log, studded with nails on one end, struck the SUV's radiator, causing significant damage and leaving the vehicle undriveable. Luckily, the log missed the windshield, preventing a potentially fatal outcome for Sinat and the four other passengers. Other drivers on the busy highway swerved to avoid the rogue log, creating chaotic and dangerous scenes. Sinat suggested the log may have fallen from a truck carrying construction materials or been propelled by another vehicle, but the origin remains unclear. He urged stricter safety measures for transporting heavy materials, emphasizing the need to securely fasten loads to prevent accidents. “This could have been a fatal accident. Ensuring loads are secure isn't just about preventing vehicle damage; it's about saving lives,” Sinat said, reported The Thaiger. Local officials have begun investigating and are calling on witnesses or anyone with dashcam footage to help identify how the log ended up on the highway. Meanwhile, the damaged Fortuner was towed away for repairs, and thankfully, no injuries were reported. -- 2025-02-28

Mentally Unstable Man's Alleged Attack Leads to Standoff Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A terrifying knife attack in the Nong Bua subdistrict, Ban Mo district, has left residents reeling after a mentally unstable man attacked his elderly father, prompting a tense police standoff. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353182-mentally-unstable-mans-alleged-attack-leads-to-standoff/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A terrifying knife attack in the Nong Bua subdistrict, Ban Mo district, has left residents reeling after a mentally unstable man attacked his elderly father, prompting a tense police standoff. Police Lieutenant Colonel Chalermphon Phothisima responded swiftly to an emergency call on February 28, arriving to find the victim, 76-year-old Chet, suffering from severe slash wounds. Rescue workers from the Sawang Rattanatrai Thammasathan Saraburi Rescue Foundation rushed him to Ban Mo Hospital, where he is receiving life-saving care. Witnesses recounted how Donbandan, the 44-year-old accused, stood menacingly outside his family home with a machete. Police engaged him in a tense confrontation, eventually subduing him with a forked stick before taking him into custody for questioning. Donbandan's claims of innocence, including a bizarre story of mistaken identity involving another man dressed like him, have done little to dispel suspicions. His claim is further muddied by his use of multiple nicknames. A search revealed Donbandan's status as mentally or behaviourally disabled, captured in his Type 4 Disabled Person ID card. Investigators are waiting for medical assessments and drug test results as they try to piece together this complex case. The incident reportedly stemmed from a domestic dispute over cigarettes with Donbandan's mother-in-law, who had asked him to bring rice to Chet. Tragically, this simple errand culminated in an assault. Donbandan has a history of mental health issues, receiving treatment at Srithanya Hospital and relying on medication to manage his condition. As police continue their investigation, the community seeks justice and clarity in this harrowing event, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-28

Bangkok Officials Ban Shrine Offerings at Optimus Prime Statue Photo courtesy of KhaoSod In the bustling Samphanthawong district of Bangkok, a towering Optimus Prime statue has morphed into a perceived shrine, drawing believers and tourists alike, eager to leave offerings for fortune. Initially catching attention when a local merchant attributed an upswing in sales to the statue's mystical aura, this curious mix of pop culture and superstition quickly went viral, attracting a steady stream of followers. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353181-bangkok-officials-ban-shrine-offerings-at-optimus-prime-statue/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod In the bustling Samphanthawong district of Bangkok, a towering Optimus Prime statue has morphed into a perceived shrine, drawing believers and tourists alike, eager to leave offerings for fortune. Initially catching attention when a local merchant attributed an upswing in sales to the statue's mystical aura, this curious mix of pop culture and superstition quickly went viral, attracting a steady stream of followers. The situation escalated as the shop owner of Sunset, a nearby business, famously delivered 99 glasses of red drinks in thanks to the statue. Spurred on by this display, others began to emulate the gesture, unwittingly transforming the site into a bustling hub of devotion. The popularity of the towering robot soon turned the scene into a blend of worship and selfie-taking, coining a curious fusion of tradition and modernity. However, local officials have now intervened, worried about the growing hazards presented by the daily congregation. Led by Pinich Kanchanachusak from Bangkok's Metropolitan Council, the area underwent scrutiny due to increased pedestrian traffic along Charoen Krung Road, posing a significant traffic risk. The spectacle had become a danger, as throngs of people crossing towards the statue compromised safety on the city's often congested streets. Realising the potential for accidents, officials have placed a ban on the practice of offering gifts to the statue and warned local businesses against facilitating this trend. They've also scrutinised shop permits to ensure compliance with municipal policies, making safety a priority amid the excitement. Nonetheless, despite these precautions, the pull of Optimus Prime remains irresistible to many, leaving authorities and shopkeepers to navigate the line between cultural phenomenon and public safety with care, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-28

Drunken Meltdown in Nonthaburi: Woman Assaulted Outside Salon - video In a shocking turn of events, 28-year-old restaurant worker Juthamas Chueamuang was assaulted outside a hair salon by an intoxicated man, identified as Nitinan Mekchai, in Nonthaburi's Bang Bua Thong district yesterday morning. The incident, which occurred on Chanthong Iam Road at 11am, began when the inebriated man, approaching Juthamas while rambling incoherently, transformed quickly into a disturbing scene of violence. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353179-drunken-meltdown-in-nonthaburi-woman-assaulted-outside-salon-video/

In a shocking turn of events, 28-year-old restaurant worker Juthamas Chueamuang was assaulted outside a hair salon by an intoxicated man, identified as Nitinan Mekchai, in Nonthaburi's Bang Bua Thong district yesterday morning. The incident, which occurred on Chanthong Iam Road at 11am, began when the inebriated man, approaching Juthamas while rambling incoherently, transformed quickly into a disturbing scene of violence. Initially, the encounter seemed minor when Nitinan touched Juthamas's leg, prompting her to push him off. Despite his apology, the situation escalated when a light slap from Juthamas led to an unprovoked attack. Nitinan began punching her until she fell and, even more horrifically, continued to assault her on the ground. Bystanders in the area, including the salon owner, Natkan, and another witness Chareerat, quickly intervened to stop the attack and informed the police, who subsequently arrested Nitinan. Juthamas, who received medical attention following the assault, confirmed she had no prior connection to the 40-year-old mobile phone repairman. According to his wife, Panida, Nitinan had a history of unpredictable behaviour under the influence of alcohol, albeit usually avoiding spirits in favour of beer due to its mild effect on him. Nitinan now faces charges of public intoxication and disorderly conduct, with an assault charge dependent on Juthamas's medical report. This incident underscores the dire consequences of alcohol-fuelled aggression and raises concerns about public safety in such scenarios, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-28

Thai Woman Fights Alleged Police Misconduct in DUI Incident Photo via Hone Krasae A Thai woman, named 29-year-old Chonthicha, has accused police in Chiang Rai of fabricating a drink driving charge, physical assault, and attempting to steal a gold bracelet. On February 27, she, along with her lawyer, visited the Chiang Rai Provincial Police Office to request an investigation into the incident. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353175-thai-woman-fights-alleged-police-misconduct-in-dui-incident/

Photo via Hone Krasae A Thai woman, named 29-year-old Chonthicha, has accused police in Chiang Rai of fabricating a drink driving charge, physical assault, and attempting to steal a gold bracelet. On February 27, she, along with her lawyer, visited the Chiang Rai Provincial Police Office to request an investigation into the incident. Chonthicha recounted an alarming series of events. While returning from Phu Chi Fa mountain after a work trip on January 22, her car swerved into a roadside ditch near an airport while avoiding a dog. Seeking help, she called the police, only to face unexpected allegations. According to her, upon arriving, police allegedly attempted to remove her gold bracelet and accused her of being drunk when she protested. Despite passing multiple alcohol tests, officers insisted on her drunkenness, forcing repeated tests. Exhausted, she claims she was slapped and punched while in an emergency vehicle. Her friend, witnessing the ordeal, confronted the officers, urging them to release her. Eventually, she was let go but later charged with drink driving, with purportedly fabricated evidence showing 150mg% alcohol in her system. The accused officers have denied any wrongdoing and are open to investigation. Chiang Rai Provincial Police have vowed to conduct a fair inquiry. Chonthicha's lawyer criticized the handling of the situation, highlighting her injuries as evidence of misconduct. As the investigation unfolds, the quest for justice continues in this troubling case, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-28

Thailand's Cybersecurity Initiative Hits Illegal Cable Networks Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's telecom watchdog, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), is ramping up efforts to stop cybercriminals. They're teaming up with the Department of Highways to target illegal cable networks found near bridges leading to neighboring countries. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353174-thailands-cybersecurity-initiative-hits-illegal-cable-networks/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's telecom watchdog, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), is ramping up efforts to stop cybercriminals. They're teaming up with the Department of Highways to target illegal cable networks found near bridges leading to neighboring countries. Focusing on 17 major bridges, the NBTC aims to protect national security from potential threats. Trairat Viriyasirikul, acting Secretary General of the NBTC, shared that recent operations with local police and the Technology Crime Investigation Division 3 unveiled unauthorized cable setups near the first Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge. These cables were traced directly to Laos. Prompted by discoveries from last year, the NBTC is intensifying efforts this year to ensure telecom operators label their networks for easier identification. Investigations also revealed wireless antennas installed at a hotel with clear views of Laos, only 1.24 kilometers away. Furthermore, they found a dish capable of sending signals 30 kilometers across the border, situated just 936 meters from it. Trairat emphasized the potential risks posed by such equipment, close to foreign territories, warning about the facilitation of illegal cyber activities. Those involved will be prosecuted under the Radio Communications Act, facing penalties up to 100,000 baht or five years in prison. Ongoing raids have now extended to the border areas of Nong Khai province, as teams are determined to dismantle these networks and stop cyber threats from gaining a foothold, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-28

Lucrative Hong Kong Jobs Await Thai Boxing Coaches Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Labour Ministry is backing a new wave of job opportunities for Muay Thai boxing coaches in Hong Kong. Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn recently toured a fitness centre on Fa Yuen Street in Hong Kong’s bustling Mong Kok district, highlighting the demand for Thai boxing experts. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353173-lucrative-hong-kong-jobs-await-thai-boxing-coaches/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Labour Ministry is backing a new wave of job opportunities for Muay Thai boxing coaches in Hong Kong. Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn recently toured a fitness centre on Fa Yuen Street in Hong Kong’s bustling Mong Kok district, highlighting the demand for Thai boxing experts. Owned by Santichai Kongsankaew, the centre offers Muay Thai as a sought-after exercise class. With at least 600 job openings, coaches can earn a monthly salary of 81,000 baht, with perks like free meals and accommodation. For those working over seven years, the path to permanent residency in Hong Kong is open, adding further appeal to these positions. Phiphat stressed Muay Thai's global career potential, particularly in Hong Kong's thriving market. The ministry plans to issue professional licences for coaches, ensuring full labour protection under international laws. Labour Permanent Secretary Boonsong Thabchaiyut confirmed the ministry's support for people seeking legal work abroad. The Department of Skill Development will craft training policies and certify professional standards for aspiring coaches, paving the way for Thailand’s boxing professionals, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-28