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Malaysian Tourist's Tragic Plunge in Patong Sparks Investigation Photo courtesy of The Phuket News Holidaymakers in Phuket were left shaken after a Malaysian tourist reportedly “acting crazy” leapt from a hotel balcony, later dying from his injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360305-malaysian-tourists-tragic-plunge-in-patong-sparks-investigation/

Picture courtesy of The Phuket News Holidaymakers in Phuket were left shaken after a Malaysian tourist reportedly “acting crazy” leapt from a hotel balcony, later dying from his injuries. The tragic incident unfolded around 1.30am on May 9, when Patong Police received an alert from Patong Hospital about a foreign man who had fallen from a hotel building and succumbed to his injuries shortly after being admitted. Police Lieutenant Chanarong Prakongkeo, the investigation officer from Patong Police Station, immediately informed Police Colonel Chalermchai Hirasawat, the station superintendent, about the incident. Officers quickly made their way to both the hospital and the scene of the fall. The victim, identified as a 25-year-old Malaysian national, had arrived in Thailand just a day prior, as part of a tour group of 20 Malaysians. His identity is being withheld pending family notification. Eyewitnesses stated that the young man started behaving erratically before his fatal jump. He reportedly ran out of his room, climbed over the balcony at the back of the hotel, and leapt. Surprisingly, although he survived the initial fall onto an adjacent building’s balcony, he jumped again, this time to the ground, sustaining severe injuries. Despite the Patong Hospital ambulance's rapid response, the man succumbed to his wounds shortly after arrival. The Phuket News reported that the Malaysian Embassy in Thailand has been informed and is working with the man's family on repatriation. An ongoing investigation by the Patong Police is now in place, focusing on reviewing hotel CCTV footage and gathering witness statements. While foul play hasn't been detected initially, the peculiar circumstances are under scrutiny. Officers are keen to understand the sudden behavioural shift, as no substances or signs of violence were immediately apparent. Further details are expected once an autopsy is completed and more comprehensive witness interviews are conducted. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-10

Thailand Braces for Storms: 55 Provinces on High Alert Picture courtesy of NBT The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has sounded the alarm, predicting severe thunderstorms to pummel 55 provinces across Thailand today. Affected areas can expect heavy rainfalls, strong winds, and even some hail, particularly in the northeastern regions, which are set to bear the brunt of the summer storms with gusty winds and sporadic hail. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360301-thailand-braces-for-storms-55-provinces-on-high-alert/

Picture courtesy of NBT The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has sounded the alarm, predicting severe thunderstorms to pummel 55 provinces across Thailand today. Affected areas can expect heavy rainfalls, strong winds, and even some hail, particularly in the northeastern regions, which are set to bear the brunt of the summer storms with gusty winds and sporadic hail. This climactic upheaval is attributed to a moderate high-pressure system moving from China, which is driving southeasterly and southerly winds that usher in moisture from the Gulf of Thailand and the South China Sea. As a result, the upper regions of Thailand will experience sweltering temperatures along with the inclement weather. Authorities urge residents to remain indoors, especially in thunderstorm-affected zones, and avoid sheltering under trees or near unstable structures. Farmers are particularly advised to bolster their crops and protect livestock from the elements. Simultaneously, heightened rainfall in the south is anticipated, courtesy of intensifying westerly and southwesterly winds affecting the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand. Mariners navigating near the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea should heed warnings about waves reaching over 2 metres in height near thunderstorms. Meanwhile, dust accumulation across Thailand is predicted to remain within low to moderate levels, thanks to prevailing winds. Weather Forecast Breakdown: Northern Region: Expect hot to extremely hot weather with thunderstorms affecting 40% of areas like Phayao and Phitsanulok. Temperatures will span from 23 to 40°C, paired with southwesterly breezes. Northeast Region: Severe storms will blanket 70% of areas including Loei and Khon Kaen, with temperatures between 23 to 35°C and southeasterly winds. Central Region: Anticipate hot weather and thunderstorms across 40% of the locales, notably Nakhon Sawan and Ayutthaya, with temperatures from 26 to 38°C. Eastern Region: Hot weather reigns with thunderstorms in 60% of the region, such as Chon Buri and Rayong. Seas will witness waves over 2 metres in storm-prone zones. Southern East Coast: Weather remains hot with thunderstorms drenching 40% of the territories, including Surat Thani. Sea conditions will mirror those along the East Coast. Southern West Coast: Thunderstorms will swamp 70% of places like Phuket and Krabi, with westerly gusts up to 30 km/h. Bangkok & Surrounding Areas: Expect generally hot weather punctuated by thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with temperatures hanging between 26 to 37°C. As Thailand braces for these severe weather patterns, residents and authorities alike are on alert, reinforcing infrastructure and maintaining vigilance against possible storm-induced disruptions. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-10

Doctors in Hot Water: Police Probe Looms Over Thaksin Case Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World The National police chief, Pol Gen Kitrat Phanphet, has issued a stern warning that the two doctors suspended by the Medical Council of Thailand may face a disciplinary probe. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360285-doctors-in-hot-water-police-probe-looms-over-thaksin-case/

Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World The National police chief, Pol Gen Kitrat Phanphet, has issued a stern warning that the two doctors suspended by the Medical Council of Thailand may face a disciplinary probe. This follows allegations of ethical breaches linked to their treatment of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Initial information has been based on media reports, and official documents are awaited for definitive action. Reports suggest these doctors might be from the Police General Hospital. The ethics committee of the Medical Council found discrepancies between the medical certificates they issued and Thaksin's actual health condition. While their names remain undisclosed, the link to the Police General Hospital remains a topic of speculation. “If confirmed that these doctors committed offenses, they could face disciplinary action and punishment, given their status as police officers,” stated Pol Gen Kitrat. Additionally, the possibility of criminal charges looms if formal complaints are filed against them. Thaksin, who returned to Thailand in August 2023 after over 10 years abroad, was sentenced to eight years for corruption and abuse of power. This sentence was subsequently reduced to a year by a royal pardon. Upon arrival, instead of prison, Thaksin was moved to a VVIP room at the Police General Hospital, citing health reasons. His extended stay prompted allegations of special treatment and a suspected backdoor deal. This development raises concerns over integrity and transparency within Thailand’s medical and justice systems. The implications of this case could set significant precedents concerning ethical standards and accountability in medical practice. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-05-10

Australian Man Wanted for Massive Robbery Arrested in Pattaya Picture courtesy of Provincial Police Region 8 via Bangkok Post An elaborate hideout in Pattaya has been busted, leading to the arrest of an Australian man wanted for robbing a compatriot of 21 million baht. Thai police identified the suspect as Vasilios, apprehending him in a luxe villa in Bang Lamung on Friday. Officers found, astonishingly, two lions roaming the lavish two-rai property. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360276- australian-man-wanted-for-massive-robbery-arrested-in-pattaya/

Picture courtesy of Provincial Police Region 8 via Bangkok Post An elaborate hideout in Pattaya has been busted, leading to the arrest of an Australian man wanted for robbing a compatriot of 21 million baht. Thai police identified the suspect as Vasilios, apprehending him in a luxe villa in Bang Lamung on Friday. Officers found, astonishingly, two lions roaming the lavish two-rai property. Vasilios, who also uses the name Billy, was taken into custody by a joint operation between Provincial Police Region 8 and Chon Buri police. The newly revealed details of Vasilios's situation include ownership, via his girlfriend, of the two lions—acquired at staggering prices of one million baht and 700,000 baht, respectively—and a cache of BB guns. Also worth noting is his possession of a Thailand Privilege Card, offering VIP visa status. The intricate case began with complaints from an Australian who claimed robbery of 21 million baht in cash and cryptocurrencies by fellow Australians. The victim alleged brutal threats and identified his assailants as part of a notorious mafia group linked to drugs in Australia. Police reports detail a trail of incidents, starting from a forceful break-in at a Phuket villa, coercing a bank transfer and stealing cash, totaling to a hefty sum. The criminal network, spearheaded by Vasilios, reportedly remained undeterred, chasing the victim down to Koh Samui. There, Vasilios's Thai affiliates compelled the victim to transfer bitcoins worth millions. These misdeeds finally prompted the issuance of arrest warrants across Phuket and Samui, mobilising a police crackdown that halted Vasilios’s opulent Pattaya lifestyle. The operation illustrates a sophisticated international crime web operating with audacity within Thai borders. It underscores the cross-border criminal activities that Thai authorities vigilantly address, reminding the public of the ever-present reach of international crime rings. The details of the case continue to unfold as investigations proceed. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-10

Rangsiman Urges Probe of PM Paetongtarn Over Thaksin Hospital Scandal Bangkok Police Hospital. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a dramatic twist, People’s MP Rangsiman Rome has called on the authorities to interrogate Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra about her father, Thaksin Shinawatra's controversial stay at Police Hospital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360275-rangsiman-urges-probe-of-pm-paetongtarn-over-thaksin-hospital-scandal/

Bangkok Police Hospital. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a dramatic twist, People’s MP Rangsiman Rome has called on the authorities to interrogate Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra about her father, Thaksin Shinawatra's controversial stay at Police Hospital. The Medical Council recently revealed there was no evidence Thaksin was critically ill, as previously claimed, to justify his hospitalisation. Thaksin, seen as a fugitive tycoon, had stayed in the hospital for six months under the guise of serious health issues, avoiding a one-year jail sentence. Rangsiman used his social media platform to urge judicial authorities to swiftly summon Paetongtarn for questioning. He suspects she knows details of the irregularities that allowed her father to evade time behind bars. This call to action follows the Medical Council’s stern actions against three doctors involved in misleading medical reports favouring Thaksin, with two losing their licences for ethical breaches. The once self-exiled Thaksin landed himself in legal trouble during his premiership, leading to an eight-year sentence on power abuse charges, later reduced to one year by royal pardon. However, instead of serving his term, Thaksin benefited from a six-month stay at Police Hospital, where he was reportedly not critically ill. This special treatment has sparked outrage, as it exploited legal loopholes, highlighting potential misuse of power and money in Thailand’s justice system. Officials allegedly used their influence to ensure Thaksin remained in the comfort of a premium hospital ward rather than a prison cell. Rangsiman sternly warns that without accountability, other powerful figures might mimic Thaksin's escape from justice. The situation raises fundamental questions about the nexus of power and justice, signalling profound implications for Thailand's legal integrity. Observers await responses from Prime Minister Paetongtarn and relevant authorities as this high-profile case stages a test of Thailand's commitment to legal fairness across all societal tiers. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-05-10

Thai-Ghanaian Fraud Gang Arrested for 200 Million Baht Japan Scam Photo: Bangkok Post In a significant crackdown, Thai authorities have arrested six members of a multinational fraud gang, consisting of five Thai nationals and one Ghanaian, for orchestrating a scam that swindled over 200 million baht from a company in Japan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360237-thai-ghanaian-fraud-gang-arrested-for-200-million-baht-japan-scam/

Soviet Spacecraft Set to Re-enter Earth: Thailand's Minimal Risk Pictures courtesy of GISTDA Facebook A dormant Soviet spacecraft, Cosmos 482, which has been orbiting Earth since 1972, is expected to re-enter the atmosphere imminently, prompting cautious vigilance from space agencies worldwide. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360234-soviet-spacecraft-set-to-re-enter-earth-thailands-minimal-risk/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 10 May 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1360242-thailand-live-saturday-10-may-2025/

Thailand Eases Alcohol Restrictions on Buddhist Holidays with Exceptions Photo courtesy of Mashable SEA In a shift that reflects changing attitudes in Thailand's regulatory policies, the government has announced the easing of its alcohol ban on five traditionally sacred Buddhist holidays. As per the announcement made today in the Royal Gazette, these adjustments come into effect immediately, allowing more flexibility for specific venues to serve alcohol. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360233-thailand-eases-alcohol-restrictions-on-buddhist-holidays-with-exceptions/

Tour Bus Accident on Mittraphap Road Leaves 15 Injured Picture courtesy of Khaosod In the early hours of this morning, a passenger bus travelling from Rayong to Nakhon Phanom was involved in a serious road accident in Ban Phai District, Khon Kaen Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360215-tour-bus-accident-on-mittraphap-road-leaves-15-injured/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod In the early hours of this morning, a passenger bus travelling from Rayong to Nakhon Phanom was involved in a serious road accident in Ban Phai District, Khon Kaen Province. The incident occurred at approximately 03:00 AM, when the bus veered off Mittraphap Road near the Ban Phai junction and came to rest in a roadside ditch. The bus, which was registered in Khon Kaen and carrying 36 passengers, suddenly swerved from the right lane to the left without warning, leading to the crash roughly 50 metres from the Ban Phai traffic lights. Emergency rescue services responded promptly, working to evacuate passengers from the overturned vehicle. Picture courtesy of Khaosod Fifteen individuals sustained injuries and were transported to Ban Phai Hospital for treatment. As of this statement, two passengers remain hospitalised. One patient, who suffered a fractured arm, is scheduled to undergo surgery this afternoon. Another is under medical observation for chest-related injuries. Initial investigations suggest that the driver may have fallen asleep at the wheel, leading to the unexpected deviation and subsequent accident. The bus was en route to Khon Kaen Bus Terminal 3 as part of its regular scheduled journey. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the precise cause of the incident and to ensure appropriate follow-up measures are taken. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod 2025-05-09

Russian Woman Arrested for Prostitution on Koh Phangan Picture courtesy of CH 3Plus NEWS A Russian woman has been apprehended on Koh Phangan for engaging in prostitution, allegedly earning over 100,000 baht per month through online advertisements. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360211-russian-woman-arrested-for-prostitution-on-koh-phangan/

Picture courtesy of CH 3Plus NEWS A Russian woman has been apprehended on Koh Phangan for engaging in prostitution, allegedly earning over 100,000 baht per month through online advertisements. On 9th May 2025, it was reported that under the direction of Police Lieutenant General Saksira Puek-am, tourist police on Koh Phangan received information about a Russian woman advertising sexual services on a website. The surveillance team confirmed the activity and set up a sting operation. Police, in coordination with immigration and local authorities in Surat Thani, conducted an undercover operation after identifying Ms Alina, a 34-year-old Russian national, offering services. She was arrested at a resort in Ban Tai with evidence including 11,000 baht in marked bills, condoms, and a handbag. Initial interrogations revealed that Ms Alina chose this profession for its lucrative income, advertising services at 10,000 baht ($300) per hour between 1 am and 5 am, accumulating over 100,000 baht monthly. Ms Alina is being charged with soliciting prostitution for personal and commercial gain, using advertisements targeting the public, thus promoting her services on Koh Phangan. She, along with the evidence, has been handed over to Koh Phangan police for further legal proceedings. Picture courtesy of Daily News Adapted by ASEAN Now from CH3plus 2025-05-09

Pattaya Police Launch “Digital Crime Clock” to Track Criminal Activity in Real Time Pictures courtesy of The Pattaya News Pattaya police have launched a new mobile crime-tracking system, uniquely named the “Digital Crime Clock,” which keeps an eye on crime patterns in real-time, potentially shining a light on criminals skulking in the shadows. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360206-pattaya-police-launch-“digital-crime-clock”-to-track-criminal-activity-in-real-time/

Pictures courtesy of The Pattaya News Pattaya police have launched a new mobile crime-tracking system, uniquely named the “Digital Crime Clock,” which keeps an eye on crime patterns in real-time, potentially shining a light on criminals skulking in the shadows. This state-of-the-art platform, the first of its kind in Thailand's Provincial Police Region 2, simplifies crime mapping and provides instant access to crime data at officers' fingertips. The initiative has been spearheaded by Police Lieutenant General Yingyot Thepjumnong, Commander of Provincial Police Region 2, as part of an effort to integrate advanced technology into policing. Already, AI-driven facial recognition is helping police identify suspects and keep tabs on known offenders across the region. Police Major Sittiwat Katchamat, Deputy Superintendent for Prevention at Pattaya City Police Station, explained that the “Digital Crime Clock” aims to support, not supersede, officers' work, allowing them to make informed decisions at a moment’s notice, using real-time data. This platform meticulously records and digitally plots crime information—such as type, date, time, and location, for easy analysis, enabling officers to spot trends and strategically allocate patrol resources. The system’s impact is already visible. For instance, Pattaya's central beachfront, once notorious for nighttime assaults, revealed through data analysis that attacks predominantly occurred between 3am and 4am. In response, police adjusted patrol schedules, leading to a noticeable reduction in incidents, as mentioned by Police Major Sittiwat. Although he didn’t provide specific figures, he highlighted that even a 5-10% decrease is a positive indication. The roll-out in Pattaya City Police Station is just the beginning, with plans for expansion across the eastern provinces in hopes of establishing standardised, data-driven policing. According to the programme’s slogan “Trust, Faith, Professionalism” the aim is to bolster public trust and serve the Royal Thai Police effectively. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-09

Tourist Tries to Escape Wheel Clamp by Changing Tyre Picture courtesy of Khaosod A foreign tourist attempted to evade a wheel clamp by fitting a spare tyre but was caught by police in Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360196-tourist-tries-to-escape-wheel-clamp-by-changing-tyre/

Pictures courtesy of AFP published by CNA and Thai Rath In a firm decision today, the Criminal Court on Ratchadapisek Road, Bangkok, refused to permit Thaksin Shinawatra to travel to Qatar, where he was slated to potentially meet U.S. President Donald Trump. Despite being accompanied by Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, Thaksin's request was deemed a personal matter, with the court dismissing any official agenda for talks with Trump. This ruling comes amid ongoing legal troubles for Thaksin, including a lawsuit tied to Thailand's strict lese majeste law, which frowns upon criticism of the monarchy. The court's inquiry revealed Thaksin was invited to a dinner hosted by Qatar's Lusail Palace, with hopes, but no confirmation, of engaging in discussions with Trump and his economic team. The invitation was personal, not relating to his advisory role to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, despite Ibrahim's standing as ASEAN’s president this year. While Thaksin anticipated a high-profile encounter, no definitive meeting details were established. The timing of this trip raised eyebrows, coinciding closely with an upcoming Supreme Court trial concerning Thaksin's alleged involvement in remarks linking the monarchy to his 2006 ousting. The case asserts Thaksin’s comments during a Seoul interview. With strong legal implications hovering, the court prioritised the impact of Thaksin's travel on case proceedings over potential diplomatic benefits. Thaksin remains under scrutiny, with the lese majeste violation charges threatening to cloud his future political aspirations and international relations. As legal challenges persist for the influential Pheu Thai figure, the future remains uncertain. With no permission to leave the country and significant trials ahead, Thaksin's ability to navigate these hurdles will be pivotal to his political trajectory and personal freedoms. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-05-09

Picture courtesy of Khaosod A foreign tourist attempted to evade a wheel clamp by fitting a spare tyre but was caught by police in Phuket. On 8th May 2568, a video shared on a popular Facebook page highlighted the antics of a foreign couple in Phuket. The tourists, driving a red saloon car, had parked illegally on Dibuk Road in Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket. Their car was wheel-clamped by the police. Upon returning to find the clamp, the tourists, described as of Arab descent, attempted a novel solution – swapping the clamped tyre for the spare. However, their plan was thwarted when local police arrived on the scene. The duo, identified as Arab nationals, were taken to the Phuket City Police Station where they faced a fine for their actions. Police Lieutenant Colonel Kamalas Niyomket of Phuket City’s traffic police, confirmed that the male suspect, a Tunisian national, was charged under Thailand’s Traffic Act of 1979 for attempting to move a vehicle clamped by authorities without permission. He was processed, with charges filed for court proceedings. Additionally, the vehicle’s owner faced charges for allowing someone without a valid driving license to operate the car. Under Thailand’s Vehicle Act of 1979, this oversight resulted in a 2,000 baht fine. Adapted by ASEAN Now from [source] 2025-05-09

Court Thwarts Thaksin's Trump Meeting: No Qatar Trip Allowed Pictures courtesy of AFP published by CNA and Thai Rath In a firm decision today, the Criminal Court on Ratchadapisek Road, Bangkok, refused to permit Thaksin Shinawatra to travel to Qatar, where he was slated to potentially meet U.S. President Donald Trump. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360168-court-thwarts-thaksins-trump-meeting-no-qatar-trip-allowed/

Doctors Disciplined as Thaksin Hospital Stay Sparks Ethics Storm Photo of Police General Hospital 14th floor courtesy of The Nation In a scandal rocking the Thai medical community, three doctors have been disciplined following an investigation into former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's contentious stay at the Police General Hospital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360166-thai-medical-council-debunks-thaksin’s-critical-illness-claims/#findComment-19789194