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UPDATE: Australian, British Nationals Face Thai Court Over 40 Billion Baht Fraud Operation Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In a dramatic swoop by Thai police, thirteen foreign nationals, including five Australians and six Britons, have been remanded in custody for allegedly running a scam call centre in Thailand targeting Australians. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1363958-thai-police-dismantle-scam-ring-targeting-australians-arrest-13-foreign-nationals/page/2/#findComment-19882122

Australian, British Nationals Face Thai Court Over 40 Billion Baht Fraud Operation Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In a dramatic swoop by Thai police, thirteen foreign nationals, including five Australians and six Britons, have been remanded in custody for allegedly running a scam call centre in Thailand targeting Australians. The accused appeared in Bangkok's Criminal Court following their arrest during a raid on a luxury house in Samut Prakan. The group faces charges including operating an illegal criminal network, working without proper permits, and breaching immigration laws. The house, located in the Bang Phli district, served as the gang’s headquarters, allegedly tricking 14 Australians into investing in fake bonds, costing victims an estimated 40 billion baht. The arrests were part of a joint operation between Australian Federal Police (AFP) and Thai authorities. They say these arrests only scratch the surface, linking the ringleaders to multi-billion-baht schemes defrauding Australians for over two decades. The probe kicked off in May last year when the AFP flagged a similar scam in Indonesia. This led to tracking the alleged masterminds, Mark Dennis from Australia and Mark Howship from Britain, to Thailand. The duo, who initially set up shop in Pattaya before moving to Bangkok, allegedly reassembled the scam team in Bang Phli. The group operated covertly, camouflaging the house with tarps to dodge police surveillance. During the raid, police uncovered evidence including a list of over 14,000 Australian targets as well as computers and communication gear. While only 14 victims have been defrauded to date, some suspects revealed plans for a massive operation aimed at swindling Australians out of a further 2 billion baht by year’s end. The other 11 suspects include Brett Peter Dawson and Nicholas John Mason from Australia, along with Lewis Samuel Gillespie and Ellis Ian James from Britain. They, along with their accomplices, now await their fate as investigations continue into the full scale of their illicit activities. This case highlights the ongoing fight against international fraud, with authorities determined to dismantle operations exploiting innocent victims across the globe. The court proceedings mark a critical step in bringing those accused to justice. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-06-19

Chinese Robbery Suspect Caught at Suvarnabhumi in Joint Thai–Hong Kong Police Operation Picture courtesy of Khaosod Hong Kong police collaborate with Thai immigration to apprehend a Chinese suspect accused of stealing luxury goods worth over 10 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1364083-chinese-robbery-suspect-caught-at-suvarnabhumi-in-joint-thai–hong-kong-police-operation/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod Hong Kong police collaborate with Thai immigration to apprehend a Chinese suspect accused of stealing luxury goods worth over 10 million baht. On 18th June 2025, Pol. Maj. Gen. Chengron Rimphadee, Head of Immigration Bureau 2, announced the arrest of Su Kai, a Chinese national wanted for a bold robbery. Following the directive of National Police Commissioner Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphuetch and Immigration Bureau Commissioner Pol. Lt. Gen. Phanumart Boonyalux, measures were in place to combat transnational crime. Immigration Bureau 2 coordinated with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Police, who flagged Su Kai as a suspect. He allegedly committed a robbery in a luxury handbag store in central Hong Kong, posing as a customer. He seized the opportunity to incapacitate a female staff member with a scarf before escaping with luxury bags. Su Kai then boarded Thai Airways flight TG629 to Suvarnabhumi Airport, arriving on 18th June at 17:43. The operation was led by Pol. Col. Pongthon Pongratchatanon, Deputy Head of Immigration Bureau 2, responsible for the operation's security. The investigative effort, co-led by Pol. Col. Natthakit Meesuk and Pol. Col. Naowarat Chaloemsri, quickly identified and captured Su Kai within the terminal. Su Kai was found with over 20 stolen items, including 14 Hermès handbags, two Van Cleef & Arpels bracelets, and various currencies, totalling over 10 million baht. Thai immigration authorities denied him entry and arranged for his deportation in coordination with Hong Kong police, who were expected to retrieve him and the stolen goods on the morning of 19th June. This case exemplifies international collaboration in immigration law enforcement and combating transnational crime. Pol. Maj. Gen. Chengron shared that since January, Immigration Bureau 2 has denied entry to over 10,581 high-risk individuals and conducted in-depth screenings of more than 22,000 others, ensuring Thailand remains vigilant against harbouring criminals. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod 2025-06-19

Singaporean Arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport Linked to Trafficking Ring Picture courtesy of Khaosod BANGKOK - Singaporean suspect with multiple warrants arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport, linked to transnational human trafficking and prostitution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1364082-singaporean-arrested-at-suvarnabhumi airport-linked-to-trafficking-ring/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod BANGKOK - Singaporean suspect with multiple warrants arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport, linked to transnational human trafficking and prostitution. On 18th June 2025, Pol. Maj. Gen. Cheeron Rimphadee, Commander of Immigration Division 2, revealed that Pol. Lt. Gen. Panumas Boonyalak, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, ordered a crackdown on individuals wanted by both Thai and international authorities. This included collaboration with law enforcement agencies inside and outside Thailand. Immigration Division 2's investigation team, acting on an alert about a foreigner involved in prostitution and money laundering cases, anticipated the suspect's arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Mr. Chua Soon Tian Dexter, a Singaporean national, was apprehended upon his arrival from Singapore on flight SQ 714. He faces charges of procuring and enticing individuals for indecent acts, facilitating and benefiting from prostitution, promoting prostitution through public documents and media, conspiring to commit money laundering offences, and participating in a transnational crime organisation. Initially, the suspect was found to be part of a human trafficking network, recruiting women for prostitution and systematically moving financial gains for money laundering. He is being handed over to the Crime Suppression Division for Technology Crime (CSDTC) to face legal proceedings and extend investigations into the network. The Immigration Bureau underscores the importance of clamping down on human trafficking and transnational crimes, pledging full cooperation with all agencies to prevent and combat such illegal activities. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod 2025-06-19

Bhumjaithai Party Quits Thai Coalition, Slams PM Paetongtarn Over Cambodia Call Picture courtesy of Thai Rath BANGKOK – The Bhumjaithai Party announced its withdrawal from the Thai government coalition, criticising Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra for damaging national honour through a phone call with Cambodia's Hun Sen. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1364081-bhumjaithai-party-quits-thai-coalition-slams-pm-paetongtarn-over-cambodia-call/

Picture courtesy of Thai Rath BANGKOK – The Bhumjaithai Party announced its withdrawal from the Thai government coalition, criticising Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra for damaging national honour through a phone call with Cambodia's Hun Sen. On 18th June 2025, Bhumjaithai Party declared its decision to exit the coalition, effective from 19th June, following controversies surrounding a phone conversation between Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Cambodia's Senate President, Hun Sen. The party claims the discussion negatively impacted Thailand’s sovereignty and territorial interests. In response, all Bhumjaithai ministers have submitted resignation letters to the Prime Minister, affirming their resignation as of 19th June 2025. The party has called upon Prime Minister Paetongtarn to take responsibility for the perceived national disgrace affecting Thailand’s honour, dignity, and military. The Bhumjaithai Party has pledged to support the Thai military and officials in upholding the sovereignty, territory, and interests of Thailand with full dedication. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Rath 2025-06-19

Police Raid Uncovers Illegal Activities in Pattaya Photo via Channel 8 Over 50 police officers conducted a raid on an illegal entertainment complex in Pattaya, arresting 50 foreigners involved in gambling, a call centre scam, and prostitution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1364053-police-raid-uncovers-illegal-activities-in-pattaya/

Irish Woman Jailed in Norway for Cannabis Smuggling from Thailand Picture courtesy of the Irish Mirror An Irish woman has been sentenced to three years in a Norwegian prison after being caught with nearly 30 kilogrammes of cannabis in her luggage. Jamie Mahon, 32, from Drogheda, Co Louth, was arrested at Oslo’s Gardermoen Airport. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1364044-irish-woman-jailed-in-norway-for-cannabis-smuggling-from-thailand/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 19 June 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1364050-thailand-live-thursday-19-june-2025/

Dutch Expat Arrested in Phuket for Alleged Fraud in Crime Crackdown Photo courtesy of สวพ.FM91 A Dutch expatriate has been arrested in Phuket, accused of defrauding a German woman of hundreds of thousands of baht. This arrest is part of a nationwide crime crackdown initiated by the Royal Thai Police (RTP). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1364043-dutch-expat-arrested-in-phuket-for-alleged-fraud-in-crime-crackdown/

Bangkok Minimum Wage Rises to 400 Baht from July 1 File photo courtesy of Bangkok Post In a significant change, Bangkok's daily minimum wage will rise to 400 baht starting July 1, as announced by the national wage committee on Tuesday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1363999-bangkok-minimum-wage-rises-to-400-baht-from-july-1/

File photo courtesy of Bangkok Post In a significant change, Bangkok's daily minimum wage will rise to 400 baht starting July 1, as announced by the national wage committee on Tuesday. This increase extends beyond the city, impacting workers in hotels and entertainment venues across the country, a shift from the previous focus solely on major tourist hotspots. Currently, the capital's wage stands at 372 baht, with provincial rates varying between 337 and 380 baht. The decision emerged from a decisive majority within the committee, following intense debate. Boonsong Thapchaiyut, the committee's chairman and the Ministry of Labour’s permanent secretary, emphasised this new rate for certain businesses, including hotels with over 50 rooms or those rated two-star and above, as well as registered entertainment venues. The emphasis initially targets the tourism and service sectors, which are perceived to withstand the financial adjustments more readily. This proposed wage adjustment is anticipated to positively affect approximately 700,000 workers across the nation, pending cabinet approval. To mitigate economic impacts on businesses, the Ministry of Labour is coordinating with six banks to offer 30 billion baht in soft loans, exploring further support measures as needed. The increase is significant now as the governing Pheu Thai Party, following its 2023 election campaign, aims for a 400-baht national wage, aspiring to 600 baht by 2027, though facing resistance over practical implementation. Boonsong firmly addressed rumours regarding motives to retain Cambodian workers in Thailand amidst border tensions, clarifying that the policy was economically rather than strategically motivated. Even as Cambodia appeals for its citizens' return, the wage policy remains focused on domestic economic balance rather than international labour dynamics. This landmark decision reflects Thailand's complex economic landscape, balancing worker welfare with employer capability, laying foundations for broader economic aspirations despite divided opinions. The debate underscores the intricacies of nationwide policy application within varying local economies. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-06-18

Bhumjaithai Given Days to Hand Back Interior Ministry Anutin Charnvirakul. Picture courtesy of Naewna The Pheu Thai Party, leading the current coalition, has issued a firm directive to its coalition partner, Bhumjaithai, to relinquish the coveted Interior Portfolio. This ultimatum comes with a tight deadline, wherein the second-largest coalition partner must comply within days or face expulsion from the government coalition. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1363996-bhumjaithai-given-days-to-hand-back-interior-ministry/

Anutin Charnvirakul. Picture courtesy of Naewna BANGKOK – The Pheu Thai Party, leading the current coalition, has issued a firm directive to its coalition partner, Bhumjaithai, to relinquish the coveted Interior Portfolio. This ultimatum comes with a tight deadline, wherein the second-largest coalition partner must comply within days or face expulsion from the government coalition. Under the direction of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and influenced by her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, the Pheu Thai Party has resolved to reassert control over the Interior Portfolio. This strategic move targets the Bhumjaithai Party, led by Newin Chidchob, with a formal request to cede the portfolio by tomorrow, June 19. Thaksin Shinawatra. Picture courtesy of Thai Rath The implications are clear: failure to meet this demand could lead to Bhumjaithai's exclusion from a reshuffled cabinet, anticipated later in the month. Yesterday, Paetongtarn chaired a critical meeting with Pheu Thai MPs and executive board members at the party’s headquarters to solidify this decision. In an attempt to balance this power play, Pheu Thai has proposed a swap. Bhumjaithai is being offered the Public Health Portfolio along with a ministerial position in the Prime Minister’s Office. This offer strategically places Bhumjaithai's titular leader, Anutin Charnvirakul, back in familiar territory, as he previously led the public health sector in a prior administration. Anutin has recently eased his steadfast stance on holding the Interior Portfolio. He has suggested a comprehensive cabinet reshuffle to impact all coalition partners, not solely Bhumjaithai. This could potentially provide a smoother transition and maintain coalition stability. As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on Bhumjaithai’s response, which will shape the immediate political landscape. The resolution or defiance of this ultimatum holds significant ramifications for the power dynamics within the Thai government. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-06-18

Aussie Arrested in Udon Thani for Allegedly Buying Gun Silencers Online screenshot/Channel 7 News UDON THANI – A cyber police operation in Udon Thani led to the arrest of an Australian man for allegedly purchasing weapon silencers online. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1363990-aussie-arrested-in-udon-thani-for-allegedly-buying-gun-silencers-online/

screenshot/Channel 7 News UDON THANI – A cyber police operation in Udon Thani led to the arrest of an Australian man for allegedly purchasing weapon silencers online. On 18th June, Police Colonel Apirak Champarsi, head of the Subdivision of Cyber Crime 3, executed a search warrant at a house in Ban Phue, Udon Thani, after uncovering a significant cache of firearm silencers allegedly ordered via an online platform. During the search, officers encountered Aditya, the house's resident, and Mr Adam, an Australian national. Picture courtesy of Facebook/ศูนย์ข่าวทานตะวัน ขอนแก่น Authorities seized three black rifles, three black silencers, and approximately 3,500 rounds of unspecified ammunition. The initial confession by the suspect admitted ownership of four silencers, purchased through an online retailer. Subsequently, Aditya and Mr Adam were charged with "joint possession of firearms without local authority registration and possession of military equipment without permission from the Ministry of Defence, violating the Military Equipment Control Act of 1987, section 15". They have been handed over to the Ban Theuem Police Station for legal proceedings. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Channel 7 News 2025-06-18

Corrections Department Defends Nurse’s Transfer Amid Thaksin Hospitalisation Scrutiny File photo for reference only Thailand’s Corrections Department clarifies the transfer of a nurse involved in Thaksin Shinawatra's hospitalisation, asserting it followed official procedures. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1363989-corrections-department-defends-nurse’s-transfer-amid-thaksin-hospitalisation-scrutiny/

File photo for reference only Thailand’s Corrections Department clarifies the transfer of a nurse involved in Thaksin Shinawatra's hospitalisation, asserting it followed official procedures. On 17th June, the Corrections Department addressed the transfer of Thanyapisit Khoboon, a registered nurse from Bangkok Remand Prison, who facilitated the hospitalisation transfer of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to the Police General Hospital. Thanyapisit has now been relocated to Srisangworn Hospital, Sukhothai, by request, citing the desire to gain further experience and to care for his parents in Sukhothai. This transfer came into effect on 2nd April. The announcement came after media scrutiny following Thaksin’s transfer. The Medical Council had attempted to summon Thanyapisit during an ethics investigation, but he was unable to attend due to his current location in Sukhothai. According to the department, Thanyapisit’s transfer adhered to the Civil Service Act, having been previously delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic. His original request, filed on 16th August 2023, was approved once conditions normalised, and it is unrelated to the recent news surrounding Thaksin’s care. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-06-18

5-Year Overstay Uncovered as 25 Chinese Arrested in Pattaya Loan Bust Picture courtesy of Daily News PATTAYA – Police arrested 25 Chinese nationals linked to an illegal online loan operation in Chonburi, including one overstaying by five years. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1363988-5-year-overstay-uncovered-as-25-chinese-arrested-in-pattaya-loan-bust/

Picture courtesy of Daily News PATTAYA – Police arrested 25 Chinese nationals linked to an illegal online loan operation in Chonburi, including one overstaying by five years. On 17th June 2025, under the direction of Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatkiat Jindakawnnaong, officers from Pattaya City Police executed search warrants at two luxury properties in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung, Chonburi. The raids revealed 25 Chinese nationals, 24 men and 1 woman, running an online loan service targeting clients in China using the QQ app. The operation uncovered that these individuals entered Thailand on tourist visas without work permits. Among them, Mr Qiao, aged 42, was found to have overstayed his visa by five years, one month, and four days. Authorities seized evidence, including Chinese language notebooks, financial ledgers, laptops, mobile phones, and internet routers. The group used these tools to operate their illicit loan business. All suspects were apprehended without resistance. The 25 individuals are facing charges of "participation in a secret society with unlawful intentions" and "engaging in work without appropriate permits", and the charge against Mr Qiao includes "overstaying a visa". All suspects and seized items were handed over to Pattaya police for further legal proceedings. Picture courtesy of Daily News Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-06-18

Thai Police Dismantle Scam Ring Targeting Australians, Arrest 13 Foreign Nationals Picture courtesy of Thai Rath Thai police have taken down a notorious scam operation targeting Australians, arresting 13 foreign nationals in the Bang Phli district, Samut Prakan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1363958-thai-police-dismantle-scam-ring-targeting-australians-arrest-13-foreign-nationals/

Picture courtesy of Thai Rath Thai police have taken down a notorious scam operation targeting Australians, arresting 13 foreign nationals in the Bang Phli district, Samut Prakan. These individuals, including Australian, British, Canadian, and South African nationals, allegedly ran a call centre scam that swindled approximately 32 million baht from unsuspecting Australians over the past year. This crackdown marks a significant stride in combating a long-standing operation that has plagued 14,000 Australians, costing them billions over two decades. Pol Lt Gen Jirabhop Bhuridej, commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau, announced the arrests at a press briefing. The apprehended individuals were allegedly operating from a luxury house, where 58 pieces of critical evidence, such as computers and mobile phones, were seized. The scam's masterminds, a Briton and an Australian, had previously fled Indonesia for Thailand, seeking to avoid capture. Picture courtesy of Thai Rath The group's modus operandi involved posing as legitimate financial firms and cold-calling Australian residents, coaxing them into investing in non-existent bonds with promises of high returns. Operatives in Thailand adhered to Sydney business hours, commencing their deceptive activities at 5am local time. Detective Superintendent Kristie Cressy of the Australian Federal Police highlighted the extensive damage caused by the scam over two decades. This bust underscores the international collaboration between Thai authorities and the Australian Federal Police, aimed at dismantling extensive networks of fraud that exploit victims with sophisticated financial pitches. The arrest represents a pivotal development in ongoing efforts to combat transnational financial crimes, potentially deterring future fraudulent activities targeting Australians. The investigation continues as authorities delve deeper into the network's operations and seek to track down any accomplices involved in the scam. Picture courtesy of Thai Rath Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-06-18

Kok River Check Dam: Doubts Over Toxic Waste Solution Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World Trouble is brewing in Chiang Rai over plans for check dams on the Kok River. Thai experts raise red flags about the dams’ ability to trap toxic sediments from Myanmar’s mines. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1363970-kok-river-check-dam-doubts-over-toxic-waste-solution/