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Colombian Theft Duo Caught After Chiang Mai Burglary Spree Picture courtesy: MGR online In a significant breakthrough, Chiang Mai police have captured two Colombian nationals suspected of committing a series of thefts in the area, following their audacious burglary at a Chinese family's home. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344205-colombian-theft-duo-caught-after-chiang-mai-burglary-spree/

Picture courtesy: MGR online In a significant breakthrough, Chiang Mai police have captured two Colombian nationals suspected of committing a series of thefts in the area, following their audacious burglary at a Chinese family's home. The suspects, identified as Mr. Cesar Armando Gomex Rodriguez, 20, and Mr. Sebastian Olaya Manrique, 26, allegedly stole items worth over a million baht, including cash, luxury watches, and a designer handbag. The investigation began when Mr. Gou Sinan, a Chinese resident, reported that his family home in Karnkanok Ville Village 18 was burglarised on November 15th, between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m. CCTV footage revealed one man arriving in a white sedan, followed by two men on bicycles, who pilfered the valuables before making their getaway. Swift police action traced the suspects to a parking lot at Kad Wan Kham, within the Kad Farang project in Hang Dong district. The duo was arrested based on warrants issued by the Chiang Mai court. Authorities seized four bicycles, believed to be used in their thefts, from various locations linked to the suspects. Despite denying all charges with the help of an interpreter, the two men have been implicated in a string of burglaries across Chiang Mai City and the surrounding areas, including Phu Ping Ratchaniwet and San Sai. Police suspect the stolen goods were being sent back to Colombia. Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatchai Phongwiwatchachai, leading the operation, expressed confidence in the evidence accumulated against the suspects, indicating the pair are part of a larger network. Efforts are underway to apprehend additional gang members believed to have participated in these crimes, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-21

Indian man arrested for firing blank gun in Pattaya neighbourhood by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya News Chaos ensued in a residential neighbourhood of Soi Kopai on 4/1 in Pattaya when a 36 year old Indian national fired a blank gun into the sky, causing widespread panic. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344157-indian-man-arrested-for-firing-blank-gun-in-pattaya-neighbourhood/

Chaos ensued in a residential neighbourhood of Soi Kopai on 4/1 in Pattaya when a 36 year old Indian national fired a blank gun into the sky, causing widespread panic. This incident unfolded late yesterday, November 20, prompting immediate action from local law enforcement. Deputy Chief of the Pattaya City Police Station, R.T.T. Chittisuk Suthinitaswong, received a report at 11.36pm about the disturbance and swiftly led a team of officers to the scene. Upon arrival, officers discovered the Indian, Sunil, in an intoxicated state. A search of his belongings revealed a blank gun alongside 22 rounds of ammunition, all of which were seized as evidence. The gun remained unmodified. Sunil, when questioned, stated that the firearm was a recent purchase from a dealer. He insisted he was unaware of the legal implications of carrying or discharging it recreationally. “I was drinking with friends when, on a dare, I fired the gun into the air.” After taking Sunil into custody, officers transported him to Pattaya City Police Station for further questioning. The blank gun and ammunition accompanied him into evidence. Legal proceedings are now underway as the Indian faces charges related to the incident, reported Pattaya News. Photo courtesy of Pattaya News In related news, the President of the Chon Buri Indian Association and two Thai women are seeking justice after a group of Indian men attacked them on Pattaya Beach at the end of the Diwali Festival. The 46 year old Indian association president filed a complaint at Mueang Pattaya Police Station on Tuesday, November 13, alongside the two other Thai victims. They also provided the police with security camera footage of the attack, although the video has not been released to the public. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-21

Worming success: Thailand village cashes in on earthworm empire by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a wild twist on traditional farming, a quirky village in Nakhon Phanom, Thailand, is turning the world of unusual professions on its head by raking in a staggering 50 million baht annually from a rather slimy source: earthworms! Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344156-worming-success-thailand-village-cashes-in-on-earthworm-empire/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Bob Scott In a wild twist on traditional farming, a quirky village in Nakhon Phanom, Thailand, is turning the world of unusual professions on its head by raking in a staggering 50 million baht annually from a rather slimy source: earthworms! Yes, you read that right. The ingenious residents of Ban Tan, nestled in the Na Wa District, have been cashing in on these wriggly wonders for over 30 years. Once the rainy season bids farewell, the earthworm bonanza begins. Taking advantage of the cool weather, villagers venture out in the early morning fog or under the cover of night to scoop up these slippery critters. The earthworms make their grand exit from the saturated soil, especially in moist areas near water sources. Depending on their luck, the locals haul in red or the more lucrative black earthworms, the latter being the bigger catch. A skilled villager can capture between 10 and 20 kilogrammes of worms daily during this bountiful period. Freshly harvested earthworms fetch 30 to 40 baht per kilogramme, depending on size and buyer whims. Some enterprising folks choose to dry and process their bounty, raking in a cool 500 to 600 baht per kilo for their efforts. This wriggly trade sees over 100 tonnes of earthworms shipped to China yearly. In the Middle Kingdom, legend has it these critters are key ingredients in energy-boosting concoctions. Back home, the local worm hunters earn up to 1,000 baht a day, with monthly paychecks swinging between 10,000 and 20,000 baht, reported Sanook. The process isn’t for the faint-hearted. It starts with a good old wash, followed by splitting the worms to expel soil, a task once handled with a sharp tool but now expedited by machines that might deal with just one worm at a time but speed things up considerably. Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod The prepped worms then get another rinse and a soak in herbal bark or alum solutions to banish the slime before hitting the drying racks. Villagers choose between sun drying or the speedy smoke cabinet method. Once dried to perfection, the earthworms are weighed and handed over to middlemen eager to export them to China for that enticing 500 to 600 baht per kilo. This squelchy pastime not only keeps local families afloat but also draws in curious buyers from far and wide as earthworm stocks dwindle in other areas. When they’re not up to their elbows in earthworms, the inventive villagers cycle through other creepy-crawly trades. Summer’s heat brings geckos into the spotlight, while the monsoons see a pivot to leech harvesting. This year-round hustle and bustle pumps between 100 and 200 million baht into the local economy, making job hunting elsewhere a thing of the past. Ban Tan’s quirky yet cash-rich trades are a testament to its adaptability and resourcefulness, proving that where there’s a worm, there’s a way. Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-21

Thailand Ranks 20th in Global Parenthood Support Index FILE photo courtesy: Freepik Thailand currently finds itself grappling with a "population structure crisis" as it transitions into a super-aged society with declining birth rates. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344153-thailand-ranks-20th-in-global-parenthood-support-index/

FILE photo courtesy: Freepik Thailand currently finds itself grappling with a "population structure crisis" as it transitions into a super-aged society with declining birth rates. In response, the government has implemented the Population Development Plan (2022–2037), which underscores the importance of family-friendly policies. The aim is to foster quality family environments and establish support systems that make childbirth and child-rearing more feasible. The plan outlines strategies to enhance the quality of life across all age groups, focusing particularly on encouraging "good births" through family-centric policies. It addresses the need for support across four key areas: time, financial resources, child-rearing support, and effective legal frameworks. Various initiatives have been launched to encourage childbirth, including a child support subsidy of 600 baht per month for children aged 0-6 in low-income families, extending maternity leave to 98 days, offering childbirth benefits via the Social Security Fund, and providing tax incentives for establishing childcare facilities. The private sector, too, has introduced family-friendly workplace practices such as extending maternity leave to six months, allowing flexible working hours for parents, and offering financial assistance for family-related expenses. In a policy dialogue hosted by the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) alongside ThaiHealth and other partners, NESDC deputy secretary-general Worawan Plikhamin highlighted Thailand’s low score in the "Women, Business, and the Law 2020" report. With just 20 out of 100 points in the parenthood category, the score reflects Thailand's current struggle with creating a supportive environment for parents. Natthaya Boonpakdee, director of the Child, Youth, and Family Well-being Support Office at ThaiHealth, emphasised the necessity for workplace policies that address household debt, a significant barrier to family stability and the decision to have children. The University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 survey indicates that household debt in Thailand averages 606,378 baht, a rise of 47,000 baht from 2023, driven by insufficient income, rising living costs, and increasing family financial burdens, reported The Nation. -- 2024-11-21

12 Bodies Found at Thai Meditation Site, Police Investigate Picture courtesy: Naew Na Thai authorities discovered 12 bodies buried at a meditation site in Kamphaeng Phet province. The location, situated near the Siri Chan Forest Monastery in Khanu Woralaksaburi District. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344150-12-bodies-found-at-thai-meditation-site-police-investigate/

Picture courtesy: Naew Na Thai authorities discovered 12 bodies buried at a meditation site in Kamphaeng Phet province. The location, situated near the Siri Chan Forest Monastery in Khanu Woralaksaburi District, had been associated with unusual meditation practices, including alleged "clairaudience" and "clairvoyance" rituals. Following public outrage, these activities were banned, prompting an investigation into the site's practices. Forensic police, hospital staff, local officials, and rescue workers excavated 17 graves, uncovering 12 bodies. Among them were four recently deceased individuals and eight skeletal remains. One of the bodies, reportedly donated by relatives, belonged to an infant just 55 days old. Investigators noted that salt and banana stalks had been placed in the coffins to slow decomposition, purportedly enabling extended use of the bodies for meditation rituals. Documentation was found indicating that relatives had consented to the donation of these bodies for the monastery's activities. The remains have been sent for DNA testing to confirm identities and allow relatives to claim them for traditional funeral rites. The bodies will be temporarily housed at Kuha Sawan Temple in the same district while investigations continue. Kamphaeng Phet Deputy Police Chief, Pol. Col. Anek Chancha, stated that DNA samples from cheek tissue would be matched with relatives for identification. Authorities are also investigating the legality of the body donations and whether any crimes, such as concealment of corpses or violations of donation laws, occurred. This case has drawn nationwide attention, and authorities are committed to prosecuting any wrongdoing to address public concerns, reported Naew Na. -- 2024-11-21

RTAF Unveils Reforms to Protect Thailand's Aerospace Interests Picture: National News Bureau of Thailand The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) recently unveiled a comprehensive restructuring initiative aimed at safeguarding Thailand’s national aerospace interests. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344149-rtaf-unveils-reforms-to-protect-thailands-aerospace-interests/

Picture: National News Bureau of Thailand The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) recently unveiled a comprehensive restructuring initiative aimed at safeguarding Thailand’s national aerospace interests. Under the leadership of General Songwit Noonpackdee, the RTAF is introducing strategic changes to bolster its capacity to protect and develop the aerospace sector, which significantly contributes to the nation's economy. Air Marshal Prapas Sornchaidee, a key spokesperson for the RTAF, highlighted the substantial economic impact of the aerospace industry in Thailand. With an annual turnover exceeding 29 billion baht, the industry supports over 35,600 enterprises and provides employment for approximately 1.6 million individuals. This economic footprint underscores the critical need for a robust national aerospace strategy. Central to the RTAF's restructuring plan is the creation of the Coordination Center for the Protection of National Air and Space Interests. This new unit, falling under the umbrella of the Air Force Operations Center, will be directly overseen by the Air Force Chief of Staff. Its core objective is to streamline and enhance coordination of all air and space-related defence activities within the RTAF and with external partners. Existing personnel from pertinent departments will be reallocated to staff the centre, thus ensuring that no additional hires or salary increments are necessary. Furthermore, the RTAF is advocating for significant legislative reforms. Proposed amendments to the Ministry of Defence Reorganization Act would officially rename the force as the Royal Thai Air and Space Force, reflecting an expanded focus on space as well as air security. Concurrently, the introduction of the Air and Space National Interests Protection Act would establish a Directorate dedicated to the oversight and protection of these sectors, promoting improved interagency collaboration. The legislative drafts are scheduled for consideration during the 2025 fiscal year. Following their approval by the Defence Council, these will be submitted to the National Assembly and reviewed by the Constitutional Court by 2026. With royal consent and publication in the Royal Gazette, the new structure is anticipated to be fully operational by 2028, setting a strategic foundation for safeguarding Thailand's vital aerospace interests, reported NNT. -- 2024-11-21

UPDATE: Egyptian Tourist Arrested for Sexual Assault in Luxury Condo Lift Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344147-egyptian-tourist-arrested-for-sexual-assault-in-luxury-condo-lift/

Egyptian Tourist Arrested for Sexual Assault in Luxury Condo Lift Picture courtesy: Daily News On 20 November 2024, Makkasan Police arrested a 36-year-old Egyptian man, identified as Mr. Sameh, for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman in a lift at a luxury condominium near Rama 9. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344147-egyptian-tourist-arrested-for-sexual-assault-in-luxury-condo-lift/

Picture courtesy: Daily News On 20 November 2024, Makkasan Police arrested a 36-year-old Egyptian man, identified as Mr. Sameh, for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman in a lift at a luxury condominium near Rama 9. The incident occurred in the early hours of 16 November, when the 25-year-old victim, Ms. B (alias), returned home from a night out. She reported to Makkasan Police that an unknown man, resembling an Arab national, had followed her by car into her condo premises. The man entered the lift with her and sexually assaulted her by groping her chest before fleeing the scene. Police Colonel Uramphon Khundetsamrit, head of Makkasan Police, directed the investigative team to prioritise the case due to its serious implications for public safety, particularly for women. Investigators identified the suspect as Mr. Sameh, who resides at a condominium on Ramkhamhaeng Soi 4, through CCTV footage and other evidence. Picture courtesy: Daily News Officers located the suspect and, with the help of a translator, questioned him. During the interrogation, Mr. Sameh admitted to being the man seen in the CCTV footage and confessed to committing the sexual assault. He is currently in custody at Makkasan Police Station, where legal proceedings are underway. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to addressing cases of sexual violence and ensuring the safety of the public, reported Daily News. -- 2024-11-21

Teen Severely Injured After Falling into Rice Combine Harvester in Uthai Thani A 17-year-old boy was severely injured after falling into the machinery of a rice combine harvester while working in the fields. Rescuers managed to free him using hydraulic tools before rushing him to the hospital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344134-teen-severely-injured-after-falling-into-rice-combine-harvester-in-uthai-thani/

No Verdict Yet: Court Clarifies “Big Joke” Dismissal Case Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 20 November 2024, the Administrative Court issued a statement addressing media reports regarding the Supreme Administrative Court’s decision in the case filed by Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn, known as “Big Joke.” Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344136-no-verdict-yet-court-clarifies-“big-joke”-dismissal-case/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 20 November 2024, the Administrative Court issued a statement addressing media reports regarding the Supreme Administrative Court’s decision in the case filed by Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn, known as “Big Joke.” He had petitioned to overturn the Royal Thai Police’s order for his temporary dismissal from service. The statement clarified that the case is still under review by the Supreme Administrative Court, which has not issued any verdict or order. Thailand's Administrative Court assured that it would inform the media of any decisions once they are made. Additionally, the court addressed reports by some media outlets that identified five individuals as the panel of judges deliberating the case. These reports included their names and photographs, suggesting they were the presiding judges in the case. The court categorically denied this, stating that the information was inaccurate and did not reflect the reality of the judicial process. The Administrative Court reiterated the importance of accurate reporting to avoid public misunderstanding and reaffirmed its commitment to keeping the public informed with correct and timely updates, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-11-21

Chinese buyers in Chiang Mai spark Thai fears for future stability Chiang Mai. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia In a recent surge of property acquisitions in Chiang Mai, Chinese buyers are acquiring homes and other investments, fuelling both economic growth and local unease. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344095-chinese-buyers-in-chiang-mai-spark-thai-fears-for-future-stability/

Thai court delivers justice: Cyanide serial killer sentenced to death Picture courtesy of The Times The Criminal Court of Thailand delivered a nail-biting verdict today, sentencing the notorious cyanide serial killer to death for her chilling role in the murder of 14 innocent people. The Criminal Court wasn’t pulling any punches, as her accomplices didn’t get off lightly either. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344099-thai-court-delivers-justice-cyanide-serial-killer-sentenced-to-death/

Swedish Tourist Safe After Sea Jump Near Koh Chang A Swedish tourist sparked a rescue mission at a Thailand ferry after he threw his bag into the sea and jumped in after it. The incident occurred on November 19, 2024, near Koh Chang. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344118-swedish-tourist-safe-after-sea-jump-near-koh-chang/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 21 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1344096-thailand-live-thursday-21-november-2024/

Chiang Mai. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia In a recent surge of property acquisitions in Chiang Mai, Chinese buyers are acquiring homes and other investments, fuelling both economic growth and local unease. In the heart of Thailand's cultural capital, signs in Chinese adorn shops and cafes, marking a stark shift driven largely by Chinese nationals who now invest heavily in the area. This buying spree, primarily focused in Hang Dong, San Kamphaeng, and San Sai, totalled investments from Chinese buyers of up to 5 billion baht in recent years. Houses priced from 3 million baht have proven particularly appealing, given the comparative affordability against China's urban property markets, where prices can far exceed $700,000. The combination of lower housing costs, appealing education prospects and short travel times via direct flights has made Chiang Mai an attractive proposition for Chinese investors. It reflects a broader trend, with approximately 7,190 Chinese already residing in Chiang Mai, beyond the frequent visits allowed by tourist visas. In 2023, Chinese tourists topped the chart with 200,000 visits. This flood of investment has not been without controversy. Concerns are rising among local residents and businesses about the long-term implications. Thai locals fear being priced out of their communities, highlighting issues around potential cultural erosion and economic dependency. Real estate professionals have also noted an imbalance in negotiating power, with Chinese brokers frequently orchestrating deals to their advantage. Furthermore, there are legal concerns, as foreign ownership typically exceeds the allowed 49% quota in many developments, potentially through local nominees intended to bypass restrictions. Legal analysts suggest more stringent oversight and enforcement of existing laws to ensure fair market practices. The influx of Chinese investors, while beneficial in terms of economic boost, calls for careful regulation to maintain harmony and safeguard local interests, reported Benar News. -- 2024-11-20

Authorities in Phuket are investigating the death of a British tourist whose body was discovered in a drainage ditch opposite Patong Hospital on Pra Metha Road. The tragic incident was reported to the Patong Police by locals who spotted the body early morning. British Tourist Found Dead in Phuket Drainage Ditch Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344094-british-tourist-found-dead-in-phuket-drainage-ditch/

Elderly man survives savage bear encounter in Khao Yai Park by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 75 year old man narrowly escaped a life-threatening encounter with a giant Asiatic black bear while collecting fishing traps near Khao Yai National Park. The bear attack left him with severe facial injuries and a desperate struggle for survival. The dramatic incident occurred yesterday afternoon, November 19, when the local rescue unit in Prachinburi received an urgent call at 4.30pm about a villager who had been severely injured by the bear. The frightening encounter took place in Moo 14, Baan Noen Sung, Noen Hom subdistrict, Mueang Prachinburi district. Swift action by the rescue team resulted in immediate medical assistance for the injured man, who was found with gruesome facial wounds and both eyes dislodged due to the bear’s claws. In a critical state, he was rushed to Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital for urgent care. Eyewitnesses recounted that a villager on a motorcycle discovered the injured man lying beside the road near Khlong Mai Plong Reservoir. Upon stopping to help, the villager noticed the severe injuries and learnt that the man had been collecting fishing traps he had set in the morning. This area is adjacent to the national park, which is known for its wildlife. While retrieving his traps, the man suddenly encountered the large bear, which attacked without warning. Despite his brave attempt to fend off the bear, he was overpowered and suffered deep facial gashes. The bear retreated into the forest, allowing the man to muster the strength to draw his knife and walk his bicycle in search of help. Exhausted and weakened, he eventually abandoned the bicycle and continued on foot until he collapsed from fatigue, reported KhaoSod. The incident prompted local villagers to alert Khao Yai National Park officials, who quickly arrived at the scene to investigate. They issued warnings to the community, highlighting the frequent presence of wild animals, particularly Asian black bears, in the area. These animals often venture into local territories in search of food, posing a potential threat to those entering the forested regions, a park official said. “Residents need to exercise increased caution when entering these areas, especially since bears are more frequently coming out in search of food.” The officials are considering further preventive measures, including setting up traps in areas where bear sightings or tracks are commonly reported. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-20