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Naked Russian Critically Injured After Jumping from Third-Floor Balcony in Phuket Composite courtesy of Amarin TV A Russian man in Phuket caused a stir by climbing into a woman's third-floor dorm room before jumping from the balcony, leaving him critically injured. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365951-naked-russian-critically-injured-after-leaping-from-third-floor-balcony-in-phuket/

Composite courtesy of Amarin TV A Russian man in Phuket caused a stir by climbing into a woman's third-floor dorm room before jumping from the balcony, leaving him critically injured. On 6th July, at approximately 9:20 p.m., Phuket City Police received reports of a foreign man jumping from a company's dormitory on Luang Por Road, Phuket Town. Police and emergency services rushed to the scene, finding Mr. Maksim, 27, lying unconscious. The Russian national, unclothed, was immediately given first aid and transported to Vachira Phuket Hospital. Picture courtesy of Amarin TV Witnesses reported that Mr. Maksim appeared to be in a frenzied state. He climbed to the third floor, where Miss Na (a pseudonym) was resting. After smashing her window to gain entry, he stripped off his clothes, abandoned them, and leapt from the balcony, sustaining severe injuries. Investigations revealed that Mr. Maksim was staying in the area, and while no illegal substances were found, his visa expires on 25th August 2025. Authorities have informed the Russian embassy of the incident. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Amarin TV 2025-07-07

Cannabis Advocates Warn of Economic Damage from Policy Shift A worker tends to cannabis plants at a farm in Kanchanaburi province, west of Bangkok, Thailand, July 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Cannabis advocates are set to rally at the Ministry of Public Health in Bangkok on Monday, opposing the government's move to recriminalise cannabis, which was delisted from the national narcotics list three years ago. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365944-cannabis-advocates-warn-of-economic-damage-from-policy-shift/

A worker tends to cannabis plants at a farm in Kanchanaburi province, west of Bangkok, Thailand, July 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Cannabis advocates are set to rally at the Ministry of Public Health in Bangkok on Monday, opposing the government's move to recriminalise cannabis, which was delisted from the national narcotics list three years ago. Dubbed "Operation 7-7," the protest aims to challenge Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, who supports limiting cannabis to medical use under new regulations. The rally's organisers claim that the proposed changes threaten the livelihoods of small growers and entrepreneurs who have benefitted from the plant's legalisation. Chokwan "Kitty" Chopaka, a prominent advocate, announced plans to camp at the ministry to push for a Cannabis Act, highlighting the possible monopolisation by larger interests. The cannabis industry, once considered a vibrant sector boosting Thailand's economy and tourism, faces an uncertain future. The re-listing could force thousands of small businesses to shut down, raising concerns about potential economic fallout. The debate also includes fears about underage use, with some schools and parents worried about cannabis leading youths to try other substances. The Department of Juvenile Observation and Protection noted a rise in prosecutions of young people since cannabis was decriminalised in 2022, with a significant number related to cannabis offences. Amidst these concerns, Daycha Siripatra, a leader in the cannabis community, argues that cannabis has positively impacted the economy, particularly for local farmers and tourism, drawing visitors from countries where it remains banned. Siripatra also critiques the new regulations, suggesting they cater to political interests and potentially remove restrictions on sales to those under 20. Meanwhile, Dr Thiravat Hemachudha stresses that patients using cannabis for health reasons have reported significant benefits, and a policy reversal could hinder more integrated treatment practices across the country. Despite domestic tensions, research on cannabis continues worldwide, with a focus on the non-psychoactive compounds CBD and CBN, which remain costly imports for Thailand. The ongoing debate encapsulates broader economic, medical, and social dimensions that remain unresolved. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-07-07

Thai-US Tariff Deal Hits Snag as Vietnam Charges Forward in Talks Pictures courtesy of The Nation via The Thaiger Thailand's bid for a breakthrough tax agreement with the US has stumbled, causing concern among officials and exporters. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365924-thai-us-tariff-deal-hits-snag-as-vietnam-charges-forward-in-talks/

Pictures courtesy of The Nation via The Thaiger Thailand's bid for a breakthrough tariff agreement with the US has stumbled, causing concern among officials and exporters. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira revealed on July 4 that despite extensive discussions in Washington, a definitive deal has not yet been reached. During a visit to South Korea, Pichai described the ongoing negotiations as "constructive but unfinished," promising continued efforts to secure mutual benefits. The Thai delegation, known as "Team Thailand," engaged with US policymakers and investors to foster a beneficial agreement. Meanwhile, the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) raised alarms over Thailand's waning competitive edge. FTI Chairperson Kriengkrai Thiennukul highlighted Vietnam's recent deal with the US, dropping its export tariffs to 20%, while Thailand remains at 36%. “This puts Thai exporters at a disadvantage,” Kriengkrai warned, urging for a competitive tariff rate and suggesting exploring new markets if talks falter. He stressed the importance of political stability and protecting local businesses from cheap imports. Adapted by ASEAN Now from [source] 2025-07-07

Thailand Launches Nationwide Drug Crackdown Picture courtesy of KhaoSod English Facebook Thailand's acting Prime Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, has unveiled a sweeping national anti-drug campaign, declaring war on narcotics and criminal networks. On his first day as Interior Minister, Phumtham pledged to combat drug syndicates and mafia-like figures, positioning the drug crisis as a critical threat to Thailand’s national security. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365921-thailand-launches-nationwide-drug-crackdown/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod English Facebook Thailand's acting Prime Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, has unveiled a sweeping national anti-drug campaign, declaring war on narcotics and criminal networks. On his first day as Interior Minister, Phumtham pledged to combat drug syndicates and mafia-like figures, positioning the drug crisis as a critical threat to Thailand’s national security. Phumtham announced plans to expand the existing Seal Stop Safe program, which currently operates in 14 provinces, to cover the entire nation. He stressed the necessity of ministry unity, famously saying, "There is only the lion of the Interior," symbolising collective action against internal divisions. Highlighting the urgency, Phumtham remarked on public frustrations, emphasising that people were aware of local dealers and their connections with civil servants. He demanded immediate action from district chiefs and police commanders. The anti-drug initiative will involve cooperation with the Office of the Narcotics Control Board, the police, and the military, with an essential meeting slated for July 14. This unified front seeks to dismantle links between mafia entities and transnational criminal networks. Additionally, financial probes are underway to trace illicit funds linked to drug activities. The Anti-Money Laundering Office is spearheading this effort, aiming to uncover and publicise those involved. Phumtham envisions the Interior Ministry as the cornerstone of national security measures, extending beyond traditional military or police roles to ensure the stability and safety of the Thai people. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-07-07

Falling Road Signs Smash Pickup Near Rama IV Bridge in Nonthaburi Picture courtesy of Daily News In a hair-raising incident on Saturday evening, massive steel road signs plummeted from the Rama IV Bridge, slamming into a pickup truck yet miraculously sparing its driver from harm. The unexpected crash caused severe damage to the vehicle, prompting authorities to suspect rust and recent wild weather as the likely culprits. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365918-falling-road-signs-smash-pickup-near-rama-iv-bridge-in-nonthaburi/

Picture courtesy of Daily News In a hair-raising incident on Saturday evening, massive steel road signs plummeted from the Rama IV Bridge, slamming into a pickup truck yet miraculously sparing its driver from harm. The unexpected crash caused severe damage to the vehicle, prompting authorities to suspect rust and recent wild weather as the likely culprits. The drama unfolded around 6 pm near the entrance of Soi Chaeng Watthana-Pak Kret 9/1 in Nonthaburi province. Local traffic police rushed to the scene following an urgent call from a shaken driver, reporting that the signs had nosedived onto his vehicle without warning. Upon arrival, officers discovered the golden Toyota pickup with a crushed hood, while the heavy metal signs lay a short distance away. The signs, designed to alert travellers of nearby construction, bore warnings of "construction" and "200 metres." The lucky driver, Thewin Phromsaneh, recounted his frightening ordeal. On his commute to work from Soi Wat Ku, he was suddenly confronted by the free-falling signs. “It happened so suddenly. I’m lucky I wasn’t injured,” he remarked, relieved but still startled. He has since contacted his insurance to deal with the aftermath. Initial investigations reveal the signs were originally positioned on the bridge leading to Chaeng Watthana Road. Officers surmise that the potent mix of strong winds and erosion at the signpost's base may have set off the collapse. Authorities continue to probe the incident to prevent any future occurrences. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-07-07

Secret Tunnel at Thai-Cambodian Border Exposed in Crackdown on Call Centre Gangs Picture courtesy of Thaii Rath SA KAEO - In a startling revelation, PEOPLE’s Party leaders discovered a now-blocked tunnel used for illicit crossings into Cambodia. Found at the back of a department store in Sa Kaeo's Aryanyathet district, this notorious hole was a pathway for those seeking illegal work with call centre scammers and gamblers, according to Col. Methee Khamtem of the Burapha Task Force. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365914-secret-tunnel-at-thai-cambodian-border-exposed-in-crackdown-on-call-centre-gangs/

Picture courtesy of Thaii Rath SA KAEO - In a startling revelation, PEOPLE’s Party leaders discovered a now-blocked tunnel used for illicit crossings into Cambodia. Found at the back of a department store in Sa Kaeo's Aryanyathet district, this notorious hole was a pathway for those seeking illegal work with call centre scammers and gamblers, according to Col. Methee Khamtem of the Burapha Task Force. Despite the closure of this crossing, multiple illegal routes still exist along the Thai-Cambodian border. The military faces challenges patrolling private properties, but efforts have intensified with reduced internet signals on the Thai side and the installation of barbed wire and checkpoints. Round-the-clock CCTV surveillance and joint patrols with Cambodian soldiers add to the crackdown, with villagers actively reporting suspicious activities. Deputy leader Rangsiman Rome, also chairing a national security committee, highlighted ongoing actions against call centre gangs thriving in Cambodia. While some progress has been achieved, the operations across the border remain alarming, with reports of violence complicating efforts. Rome suggested potential international legal avenues to curb these criminal networks and emphasised a comprehensive strategy to dismantle their operations. Meanwhile, the Thai government continues dialogues and cooperation with Cambodian authorities to further mitigate this cross-border crime. These operations have shown mixed results as gangs quickly adapt to authorities’ methods, persisting in their illegal activities. This complex situation underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and collaboration between nations to effectively address and resolve the issue. Despite these challenges, the commitment of local and international authorities reflects a broader attempt to disrupt and dismantle these deeply entrenched criminal activities. The focus remains on securing borders and ensuring the safety of communities affected by these illicit operations. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-07-07

Lao Man Faces Charges for Sale of Explicit Child Abuse Content Picture courtesy of Siam Rath A 20-year-old Lao national, identified as Chaipol, was arrested at a resort in Surin on 6th July. The arrest followed orders from Major General Songkrot Krikkritaya and led by Police Colonel Chawinroj Pheemarattatharong. Chaipol faces charges for possessing and distributing child pornography and illegal entry into Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365913-lao-man-faces-charges-for-sale-of-explicit-child-abuse-content/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath A 20-year-old Lao national, identified as Chaipol, was arrested at a resort in Surin on 6th July. The arrest followed orders from Major General Songkrot Krikkritaya and was led by Police Colonel Chawinroj Pheemarattatharong. Chaipol faces charges for possessing and distributing child pornography and illegal entry into Thailand. Authorities discovered two accounts on an application, "Panawat73k" and "Banana73k," that advertised child pornography clips and invited users to join private groups for a fee of 139 to 259 baht. Undercover officers joined the groups, finding over 500 members and multiple child pornography videos. Further investigation revealed Chaipol as the admin, producing and sharing the content himself. Authorities seized his mobile phone, which contained extensive materials. Additionally, videos showing Chaipol committing acts in public were found, alongside his clothing, sex toys, and bank books. Chaipol admitted to running the secret groups and confessed to producing the videos for nearly a year, earning over 100,000 baht. He also revealed he had contracted a serious illness due to unprotected filming activities. He has been handed over to investigators for legal proceedings. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Siam Rath 2025-07-07

Steel Structure Collapses in Bangkok, 13 Workers Injured Pictures courtesy of Thai Rath A steel structure collapsed at a construction site in Soi Nimit Mai 6, injuring 13 workers. Emergency crews are currently assessing the site for further casualties. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1365912-steel-structure-collapses-in-bangkok-13-workers-injured/