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Australia and Thailand Join Forces to Dismantle Global Crime Syndicates file composite In a significant move for international security, Thailand and Australia have united to combat transnational crime. This joint operation targets illicit activities involving drugs, child exploitation, and cryptocurrency-related money laundering. Spearheaded by high-ranking officials from both nations, they aim to dismantle sophisticated criminal networks extending across borders. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358886-australia-and-thailand-join-forces-to-dismantle-global-crime-syndicates/

file composite In a significant move for international security, Thailand and Australia have united to combat transnational crime. This joint operation targets illicit activities involving drugs, child exploitation, and cryptocurrency-related money laundering. Spearheaded by high-ranking officials from both nations, they aim to dismantle sophisticated criminal networks extending across borders. Earlier in the month, Pol Lt Gen Jirabhop Bhuridej of the Royal Thai Police's Central Investigation Bureau met with Australia's Federal Police. The talks focused on developing joint task forces and sharing crucial information. Leveraging expertise in field operations and intelligence, both sides aim to implement real-time collaboration mechanisms. Drug trafficking strategies were at the forefront of discussions, with Thailand recognised as a key transit point for narcotics flowing from Myanmar to Australia. Pol Lt Gen Jirabhop highlighted the challenges posed by crystal methamphetamine, also known as 'ya ice', due to its inexpensive production and high market value. The authorities discussed measures such as enhanced cargo screening and intelligence sharing to counter these threats. Tech-savvy criminals increasingly use cryptocurrency to launder illicit funds, presenting a new challenge for law enforcement. While Australia possesses advanced crypto-tracking capabilities, Thailand faces legal hurdles in using digital assets as evidence in court. Collaborative efforts with organisations like Interpol and Austrac are vital in tightening controls on illegal money flows. Both countries are prioritising future-focused law enforcement via technology and leadership training. The integration of Thailand's Big Data Centre with Australia's Investigation Management System was discussed, pointing toward a future of predictive policing and data-driven crime fighting. Australia's Joint Policing Cybercrime Coordination Centre serves as a blueprint for combating cybercrime in Thailand. This multi-agency hub combines resources from police, cyber experts, and tech firms, offering a model for effective coordination and response. As criminal activities grow in complexity, Thailand and Australia's commitment to public safety fortifies regional stability. This partnership sends a strong message to criminal networks: collaborative efforts transcend borders and deter crime. With structured frameworks and ongoing exchanges in development, this alliance aims to evolve into a sustained effort for peace and justice. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-04-26

Thailand Tightens Airport Rules on Liquids and Gels to Boost Safety Picture courtesy of TAT Newsroom Thailand has revamped its airport security, applying stricter rules for carrying liquids, gels, and aerosols (LGAs) in hand luggage. Effective from Tuesday, April 22, the new regulations are aimed at enhancing safety, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358866-thailand-tightens-airport-rules-on-liquids-and-gels-to-boost-safety/

Disgust and Outrage as Tourist Urinates on Moving Tuk-Tuk in Patong vide screenshot A shocking scene unfolded on the streets of Phuket as a foreign tourist was caught on camera urinating on a moving tuk-tuk. The incident, which went viral after being shared by user "Wissawa Jed Dok Jick" on Facebook, has sparked widespread condemnation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358864-disgust-and-outrage-as-tourist-urinates-on-moving-tuk-tuk-in-patong/

Pattaya Lift Breakdowns Trigger Post-Festival Chaos Picture courtesy of Pattaya Mail The Wan Lai water festival’s high-spirited revelry in Pattaya has left an unexpected headache in its wake. Public lifts across the city are malfunctioning, causing escalated accessibility issues. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358862-pattaya-lift-breakdowns-trigger-post-festival-chaos/

Drunk Driver Plays Foreigner Card After Bangkok Crash Havoc Photo via TikTok/ @phoom_thanasak A tipsy escapade in Bangkok saw a Thai driver impersonate a foreigner in a desperate bid to dodge accountability after slamming into not one, but two cars. The bizarre episode unfolded on April 24 in Soi Mahad Thai, Ramkhamhaeng, a lively Bangkok locale. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358860-drunk-driver-plays-foreigner-card-after-bangkok-crash-havoc/

French Fugitive Nabbed at Phuket Airport in Daring Morning Arrest Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News A wanted Frenchman tried to slip past Thai authorities but wasn't slick enough. The bold early morning arrest unfolded at Phuket International Airport yesterday, around 7.40am. A 31-year-old French national, flagged by immigration systems, faced off with police as he entered the international arrivals hall. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358858-french-fugitive-nabbed-at-phuket-airport-in-daring-morning-arrest/

video screenshot A shocking scene unfolded on the streets of Phuket as a foreign tourist was caught on camera urinating on a moving tuk-tuk. The incident, which went viral after being shared by user "Wissawa Jed Dok Jick" on Facebook, has sparked widespread condemnation. The footage shows the audacious act unfolding on April 24th, with other vehicles and pedestrians left aghast at the sight. The uploader, echoing public sentiment, slammed the act as "unacceptable behaviour" and expressed disdain for such disrespectful actions in public spaces. The scene was captured amidst the hustle and bustle of Patong, with the tourist seemingly oblivious to the consequences of his behaviour. This brazen display has once again highlighted concerns about certain tourists' attitudes while visiting Thailand. The video has triggered a surge of reactions online, with many netizens expressing their disgust and demanding stricter monitoring to prevent such public offences. Calls for better regulations have emerged, as users emphasize the need for visitors to adhere to local decorum. This incident feeds into a broader conversation about the impact of tourist behaviour on community standards and public hygiene. Discussions have been reignited concerning the necessity of educating travelers on respecting cultural norms and the significance of maintaining public decency. While this latest occurrence adds to an ongoing dialogue, it underscores the crucial role of local authorities in enforcing standards and deterring disrespectful behaviour. As the debate continues, the push for effective measures to safeguard public environments remains a pressing priority. As of now, no official statements have been reported from local police or authorities regarding the tourist's actions. The incident stands as a stark reminder to all visitors of the importance of respecting local customs and laws. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Phuket Express 2025-04-26

Photo via TikTok/ @phoom_thanasak A tipsy escapade in Bangkok saw a Thai driver impersonate a foreigner in a desperate bid to dodge accountability after slamming into not one, but two cars. The bizarre episode unfolded on April 24 in Soi Mahad Thai, Ramkhamhaeng, a lively Bangkok locale. TikTok videos unveiled a dramatic scene where the driver was confirmed Thai, yet bafflingly insisted on speaking English throughout the ordeal. Witnesses caught the fracas on film, including a determined Thai biker hunting the driver's white hatchback post the first hit-and-run incident. The footage paints a chaotic picture: the car's damaged mirror dangling and a visibly wrecked front wheel. Ignoring cries to halt, the driver pressed on, zigzagging against traffic before botching a getaway into a convenience store's parking lot and hitting another parked car. The site of the second crash became a showdown. Cornered by the biker and other onlookers, the driver clung to the foreigner façade. Photo via TikTok/ @phoom_thanasak A local Grab driver attempted dialogue, yet was snubbed with, “You look bad. You don’t speak English,” as caught on the TikTok handle @phoom_thanasak. Evident intoxication marked her face, speech slurred and footing unsure. Channel 7 clarified the incident arose on April 23, with Wang Thonglang's police later uncovering alcohoic evidence within the woman's vehicle. While her sentence remains veiled, she reportedly risks a year behind bars, a monetary fine between 5,000 to 20,000 baht (THB), or both, under Section 43(2) of the Road Traffic Act concerning intoxicated driving. Furthermore, authorities may suspend or outright void her driving licence. Temporary vehicle seizure adds to her immediate predicaments. As the legal process continues, the case highlights the severe repercussions and legal stakes of mixing alcohol with driving on Bangkok's bustling streets. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-26

Picture courtesy of TAT Newsroom Thailand has revamped its airport security, applying stricter rules for carrying liquids, gels, and aerosols (LGAs) in hand luggage. Effective from Tuesday, April 22, the new regulations are aimed at enhancing safety, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). The refreshed protocol requires all LGAs to undergo thorough screening processes before passengers, crew, or airport staff can bring them onto the aircraft or into restricted zones. These rules apply to various items, from drinks and sauces to cosmetics and spray containers. Even combined solid-liquid products like mascara and lip balm are subject to these constraints. Notable among the changes is the new size limit for LGA containers. Each should not exceed 100 millilitres and must fit in a container of identical capacity. Passengers can carry multiple containers if the total volume remains under 1 litre, all enclosed in a single, transparent, re-sealable plastic bag. This bag must be presented separately during security checks but does not count as part of hand luggage. For individuals requiring medications, baby food or milk, or medically necessary dietary products, exceptions are available with proper documentation. Airport teams, including crew and emergency staff, can bring necessary LGAs only if they follow security guidelines. The rules allow duty-free LGAs if these items are sealed in tamper-evident bags with proof of purchase. This applies to transit and transfer passengers who must show their duty-free goods for inspection. Airports are tasked with displaying the new guidelines across all public zones to ensure passenger awareness. In conclusion, as Thailand enforces these stringent security measures, travellers are encouraged to be informed of both departure and arrival airport regulations to prevent delays in their journey. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-26

Picture courtesy of Pattaya Mail The Wan Lai water festival’s high-spirited revelry in Pattaya has left an unexpected headache in its wake. Public lifts across the city are malfunctioning, causing escalated accessibility issues. The aftermath has seen the Department of Natural Resources and Environment spring into action, spearheading a clean-up campaign across impacted areas. Residents are loudly voicing concerns over the broken lifts, which have been inevitably linked to water and powder damages incurred during the festival. One particularly harrowing incident saw a local wheelchair user stranded when a lift at a crossing went kaput. Her partner had no choice but to physically carry her across the street—a precarious adventure, to say the least. City officials have acknowledged the pervasive issue, with water infiltrating the lift systems, compromising vital electronics. "Repairs are currently underway," assured a spokesperson from the department, as maintenance crews diligently tackle the grime, moisture, and subsequent technical issues blighting the lift systems. The beloved Wan Lai festival drew people out in droves, yet has highlighted public infrastructure vulnerabilities yet again, particularly in accessibility for wheelchair users and the elderly. These individuals find pedestrian bridges arduous to navigate without functional lifts. The city is committed to ensuring all elevators regain operability post-haste. Local authorities have called on the community to escalate any additional out-of-service lifts for prioritized maintenance. Meanwhile, officials are pleading for public patience as the significant post-festival clean-up continues through the next days. As Pattaya increasingly becomes a tourist mecca basking in international attention, officials are re-evaluating strategies for better preservation of public amenities during cultural celebrations. Preventative maintenance protocols will be reviewed to safeguard the city's infrastructure from future festivity-induced chaos. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-26

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News A wanted Frenchman tried to slip past Thai authorities but wasn't slick enough. The bold early morning arrest unfolded at Phuket International Airport yesterday, around 7.40am. A 31-year-old French national, flagged by immigration systems, faced off with police as he entered the international arrivals hall. Under the keen watch of Police Lieutenant Colonel Akkaraphon Kaewkiattiyot, the Superintendent of the Phuket Immigration Checkpoint, the operation exemplified teamwork. Immigration investigators teamed with officers from Patong Police Station pinpointed their target. The arrest didn't just add another notch on their belts; it also highlighted the effective collaboration between local police and immigration services. The fugitive was wanted on an active arrest warrant, charged with using force in an assault-related offence, though no physical or mental harm was done. Officials quietly whisked the details of when or where the offence occurred under the rug, but confirmed the warrant preceded his attempted reentry into Thailand. Once the French national was cuffed, the man was taken straight to Patong Police Station. An immigration officer on duty stressed the "efficiency of Thailand’s border control systems" following the arrest. While proceedings against the suspect continue, updates on his court hearing are eagerly awaited by the legal community. Meanwhile, similar swift justice echoed across Thailand: a broker linked to the infamous Doctor Boon Vanasin network was captured upon extradition from China. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The THaiger 2025-04-26

Ombudsman Probes Thaksin's Hospital Stay Amid Preferential Treatment Claims File photo for reference only Chief Ombudsman Somsak Suwansujarit has set a 30-day deadline for the Department of Corrections (DOC) and related agencies to justify their decision allowing former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's six-month hospital stay, bypassing standard prison time. This investigation follows a petition from the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which urges scrutiny over alleged preferential treatment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358814-ombudsman-probes-thaksins-hospital-stay-amid-preferential-treatment-claims/

Twin Earthquakes Rattle Northern Thailand’s Pai District Picture of earthquake effects in Chiang Rai courtesy of The Nation Northern Thailand experienced a seismic jolt late last night with two earthquakes striking Mae Hong Son's picturesque Pai district, adding to a recent surge in regional seismic activity. The tremors, felt across Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai provinces, have left residents on edge. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358831-twin-earthquakes-rattle-northern-thailand’s-pai-district/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 26 April 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1358822-thailand-live-saturday-26-april-2025/