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Koh Pha Ngan drug bust: Italian, French, Russian men arrested by Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon Immigration Bureau officers yesterday launched a major operation into foreign drug traffickers on Koh Pha Ngan, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani, resulting in the arrest of Italian, French, and Russian suspects. Officers from the Immigration Bureau yesterday, December 19 arrested Koh Pha Ngan’s leading drug dealer, reported to be a 36 year old Italian man named Federico Carlo Eugenio Pistolesi. Investigators uncovered over 71 million baht in earnings from drug sales circulating through Pistolesi’s bank accounts. The arrest followed an earlier case involving an Englishman named Peter, who was apprehended on March 1. Peter was allegedly found buying drugs from Pistolesi, having transferred over 200,000 baht to the Italian man over the past year. Following Peter’s arrest, police conducted further investigations into Pistolesi’s operations. Evidence revealed that Pistolesi received substantial amounts of money from local retail drug dealers and users, ultimately leading to his capture yesterday. During the operation, police seized 24 pieces of evidence, including a bank account with 6.6 million baht in savings, 8 million baht worth of land, a sedan, and narcotics such as cocaine and magic mushrooms. Photo via Matichon Officers also discovered that Pistolesi was listed as the managing director of a real estate company. Police are now investigating whether the company was operating legally. Pistolesi faces three charges under Thailand’s Narcotics Control Act: * Section 145: Producing, importing, exporting, distributing, or possessing Category 1 narcotics. This carries a penalty of up to 15 years’ imprisonment and a fine of between 200,000 and 2 million baht. * Section 146: Producing, importing, exporting, distributing, or possessing Category 2 narcotics. This carries a penalty of up to 15 years’ imprisonment and a fine of between 200,000 and 1.5 million baht. * Section 123: Conspiring with two or more persons to commit a serious drug-related offence. This carries a penalty of up to five years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to 500,000 baht. Photo via Naewna In addition to Pistolesi, police arrested two foreign tourists who purchased drugs from him: a 37 year old Frenchman named Roman Malik Bertagnol and a 39 year old Russian man named Anton Zaoserov. According to Channel 7, Zaoserov owned a cleaning service company catering primarily to foreign owners of luxury villas on the island. A Thai woman, identified only as Meena, was found to act as a nominee to facilitate the illegal registration of Zaoserov’s company. Further investigations revealed that the cleaning service was a front for Zaoserov’s drug dealing operations. Koh Pha Ngan Police Station officers are now pursuing further inquiries into Zaoserov’s illegal activities. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-20

Thailand's New Year Traffic Safety Plan Launched File photo: ASEAN NOW As the New Year approaches, the Thai government is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of its roads during this festive period, which often sees an uptick in travel and, unfortunately, traffic accidents. The Interior Ministry, under the leadership of Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, has unveiled a comprehensive plan aimed at reducing road accidents and promoting safer driving habits across the nation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346714-thailands-new-year-traffic-safety-plan-launched/

File photo: ASEAN NOW As the New Year approaches, the Thai government is taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of its roads during this festive period, which often sees an uptick in travel and, unfortunately, traffic accidents. The Interior Ministry, under the leadership of Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, has unveiled a comprehensive plan aimed at reducing road accidents and promoting safer driving habits across the nation. This campaign, part of the 2025 plan for accident prevention, seeks to address the most common causes of road accidents in Thailand: speeding, drink driving, and non-compliance with helmet laws. By targeting these critical issues, the plan aims to make Thai roads safer, particularly during times when traffic volume is at its peak. Central to this initiative is an increased awareness campaign directed at motorists. The government plans to implement a series of goals, indicators, and guidelines that relevant agencies can use to effectively prevent and reduce road accidents. The strategy involves enhancing traffic management systems, upgrading road conditions, and ensuring that vehicles are properly maintained to avoid accidents caused by mechanical failure. In anticipation of the upcoming New Year celebrations, the plan includes rigorous screenings of traffic from December 27th to January 5th. This period is earmarked for heightened vigilance on the nation's roads, with specific attention on enforcing laws against dangerous driving practices, especially drink driving, which has been a persistent issue. Additionally, the Ministry has committed to monitoring entertainment venues to ensure compliance with alcohol licensing laws. They will be checking that these establishments do not serve alcohol to underage patrons, as part of a broader effort to reduce the influence of alcohol on road safety. From December 1st to 19th, the ministry promoted awareness around these initiatives, and from December 20th to January 9th, the focus will be on rigorous implementation of accident reduction measures. These efforts are not only about enforcement but also about educating the public on the importance of road safety and responsible driving. Minister Anutin Charnvirakul emphasized the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders, including law enforcement, road users, and business operators, to ensure the success of this campaign. By working together, the goal is to make the festive season safer for everyone travelling within Thailand. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to improving road safety in Thailand, a nation that, despite its allure as a tourist destination, has long struggled with road traffic incidents. The success of this campaign could serve as a model for ongoing efforts to make Thailand’s roads safer throughout the year, reported The Nation. -- 2024-12-20

Pattaya's Dark Side: What You Won't Find in the Travel Brochures Picture courtesy: Freepik Nestled along the Gulf of Thailand, Pattaya charms millions with its buzzing nightlife, sun-drenched beaches, and an array of attractions. Yet, beneath this glittering facade lies a more troubling narrative that many tourists might not see. These hidden issues reveal both societal and environmental challenges that the city faces today. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346709-pattayas-dark-side-what-you-wont-find-in-the-travel-brochures/

Picture courtesy: Freepik Nestled along the Gulf of Thailand, Pattaya charms millions with its buzzing nightlife, sun-drenched beaches, and an array of attractions. Yet, beneath this glittering facade lies a more troubling narrative that many tourists might not see. These hidden issues reveal both societal and environmental challenges that the city faces today. Pattaya has long been infamous for its sex tourism industry. Go-go bars, massage parlours, and adult venues punctuate the cityscape, contributing significantly to the local economy. However, these establishments often operate in murky legal territories, leading to issues of human trafficking and sexual exploitation. The magnetic party aura of Pattaya can obscure the harsh realities faced by vulnerable individuals caught in this profit-driven industry. While violent crime is relatively rare, Pattaya does see its fair share of petty crimes and tourist scams. Visitors should be cautious of pickpocketing, inflated prices, and counterfeit goods, all of which can sour the holiday experience. More troubling are sporadic reports of street violence and altercations among inebriated tourists, which tarnish the city’s hospitable image. Pattaya’s beaches, once idyllic, now suffer from pollution and environmental neglect. Litter, waste, and occasional oil spills mar the coastline, despite ongoing clean-up efforts, reported Pattaya Mail. The surge in visitors coupled with rapid urban development has strained waste management, leading to long-term environmental damage. These factors threaten the very ecosystems that once drew tourists to the area. Pattaya’s success as a tourist hub has led to chronic overcrowding, particularly in high season. Visitors often face long queues, traffic jams, and inflated costs for services. The charm of local businesses and cultural sites is increasingly overshadowed by large resorts, malls, and chain establishments, which alter the city’s unique character. The city’s vibrant party scene is a significant draw for many tourists, yet it can encourage excessive drinking and drug use. Such behaviours present risks, not only to those indulging but also to the community at large. This party culture, while a financial boon, can create a precarious environment rife with potential hazards. Pattaya’s transformation from a quiet village to a metropolitan hotspot has reshaped the local way of life. Skyrocketing property prices and the influx of visitors have displaced residents and spurred inequality. While tourism fuels the city’s prosperity, those working in the service sector often grapple with inadequate wages and high living costs, highlighting a stark wealth divide. These hidden facets of Pattaya’s tourism story call for reflection and action from both visitors and local stakeholders. Acknowledging and addressing these issues could forge a path toward sustainable tourism practices that benefit both Pattaya’s residents and its visitors. The city’s allure as a tourist destination is enduring, but its future relies heavily on balancing economic interests with ethical, environmental, and social considerations. -- 2024-12-20

Lorry with missing wheel sparks safety fears on Phuket road (video) by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A video clip sparking safety concerns has taken social media by storm, showing a lorry missing a wheel and with a bulging tyre, driving along Thep Kasattri Road, in Thalang, Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346706-lorry-with-missing-wheel-sparks-safety-fears-on-phuket-road-video/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal A video clip sparking safety concerns has taken social media by storm, showing a lorry missing a wheel and with a bulging tyre, driving along Thep Kasattri Road, in Thalang, Phuket. Shared by a popular local social media page, the 27-second video amassed significant attention and stirred a variety of reactions online. The incident occurred on the outbound lane of Thep Kasattri Road, where a lorry belonging to a construction company was seen fully loaded with building materials. The person who recorded the video highlighted the perilous state of the vehicle, describing the situation as extremely dangerous. In the video, the individual can be heard saying, “The load is not light, this is very risky. One wheel is missing, and the other tyre looks like it’s about to burst. This tyre is full of holes.” Once shared, the clip quickly went viral, prompting a wave of comments and debates among netizens. Many expressed concerns about the safety implications of such a vehicle on the road. Some wondered if the driver was heading to a nearby shop, suggesting possible destinations at the Mueang Mai junction or another location near Maenick. “If there are remnants of the tyre, that’s more dangerous because they could fly off while driving. But if it’s just a missing wheel, there are still several wheels carrying the weight. “If the truck is empty, there’s no need to worry. Stay calm and don’t rush to judge.” Others took a more humorous approach. “Keep going as long as the materials haven’t reached the customer.” “The boss says it’s still usable.” Some even compared the situation to their own experiences. “It’s similar to my motorbike; the tyre is almost worn out.” Questions were raised about the driver’s maintenance habits. “Does the driver ever check the vehicle?” “It can still run, there are still 21 wheels left.” Phuket officials and local road safety advocates are likely to take this incident as a reminder of the crucial need for routine checks and adherence to vehicle safety regulations, reported KhaoSod. -- 2024-12-20

Malaysian and Thai Wife Arrested in 800 Million Baht Scam Case Picture courtesy: FM91 A Malaysian man and his Thai wife find themselves in custody, accused of orchestrating elaborate investment scams through deceptive mobile applications, leading to financial damages totalling a staggering 800 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346681-malaysian-and-thai-wife-arrested-in-800-million-baht-scam-case/

Malaysian-Thai Couple Arrested at Border for Money Laundering in ‘Ghost Company’ Scheme Picture courtesy of police. A Malaysian-Thai couple has been arrested at the Sadao Immigration checkpoint in Songkhla province on December 19, in connection with a large-scale money laundering operation linked to a “Ghost Company” scam. Mr. Lim, 38, a Malaysian national, and his Thai wife, Ms. Saowalak, were apprehended following criminal court warrants issued for their involvement in money laundering activities. The arrests were made at the Sadao Immigration checkpoint in Samnak Kham, Sadao district, after intelligence reports indicated Mr. Lim was planning to enter Thailand. The couple is believed to have played pivotal roles in a major fraud scheme involving the creation of fake applications “Nicshare” and “ComonApps,” which were used to deceive victims into investing in non-existent stock trading opportunities. Scammers impersonated reputable stock market figures to build trust with victims, resulting in financial damages exceeding 800 million baht ($23 million). Investigations have revealed that the couple was part of an extensive network, including both Thai and foreign nationals, that used shell companies to launder money. The total money circulation involved is estimated at 5 billion baht ($144 million). The criminal operation allegedly converted ill-gotten gains into digital currencies to conceal the origins of the funds. According to police, the couple’s involvement in the “Ghost Company” operation involved recruiting individuals to create legitimate companies that opened bank accounts, which were then sold to others for fraudulent use. The accounts were reportedly linked to illegal activities such as call center scams, online gambling, and other illicit businesses. Authorities issued arrest warrants for over 50 individuals connected to the fraud. Both Mr. Lim and Ms. Saowalak reportedly confessed to their roles in the operation, which spanned several ASEAN countries. This arrest follows a similar case earlier this month in Bangkok, where another Malaysian-Thai couple was apprehended for laundering money through gambling websites. Investigators noted a growing trend of foreign nationals marrying Thai citizens to gain legal business ownership rights, which are then exploited for money laundering purposes. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities tracking down additional suspects and analysing financial transactions linked to the scam. This case highlights the continued efforts by Thai law enforcement to combat large-scale financial crimes, particularly those involving cross-border criminal networks. -- 2024-12-20

Picture courtesy: FM91 A Malaysian man and his Thai wife find themselves in custody, accused of orchestrating elaborate investment scams through deceptive mobile applications, leading to financial damages totalling a staggering 800 million baht. On Thursday, the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of Thailand announced the arrest of Lim Chin, 38, and his wife Saowalak. The couple was apprehended as they attempted to cross from Malaysia into Thailand's Songkhla province, specifically through the Sadao district. The operation at the Sadao border checkpoint on Kanchanawanit Road was prompted by numerous complaints from individuals who fell prey to investment scams. These scams gained traction through Facebook, where posts featured images of well-known financial experts, giving the schemes an undeserved air of legitimacy. Victims were enticed to download fraudulent mobile applications named "Nicshare" and "ComonApps." Initially, users saw returns on their investments, but these quickly evaporated, leaving many out of pocket. The CIB has already identified over 50 victims who suffered significant financial losses, contributing to the scam's massive 800 million baht damage estimate. Moreover, the investigation revealed the extent of the operation, with total transactions by the gang approximating 5 billion baht. Authorities indicate that Lim Chin played a pivotal role as a leader in the scam network, which included both Thai nationals and foreigners. He and Saowalak reportedly helped establish companies designed to open bank accounts under false pretences. These 'mule' accounts were then sold across Southeast Asia, feeding into broader networks involved in call centre scams, online gambling, and other nefarious activities. The CIB is aggressively pursuing justice, with arrest warrants issued for around 50 individuals believed to be connected to this extensive network. The crackdown has been ongoing over recent months, aiming to dismantle the scam ring comprehensively. As the investigation continues, this arrest highlights the persistent challenge of financial scams in the region and underscores the importance of vigilance among potential investors. With the authorities tightening their net, the hope is to prevent further exploitation and bring all involved parties to justice, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-20

Picture courtesy: Naew Na Thailand's economy is on a precipice, warns Kittiratt Na Ranong, who is poised to take the helm of the nation's central bank. Kittiratt, a veteran finance minister and stalwart of the Pheu Thai Party, believes that immediate and significant cuts to the country's interest rates are essential to stave off economic decline. Speaking at a seminar on Thursday, Kittiratt was emphatic in his message that current interest rates are excessively high. "This is how we prevent disaster," he asserted, reaffirming his long-standing position that lower rates would invigorate the Thai economy. While the government has yet to formally confirm Kittiratt's appointment as chairman of the Bank of Thailand's board, insiders suggest that it's all but certain. This potential appointment has stirred controversy, with critics fearing increased political manoeuvring within the independent institution. Concerns voiced by economists and former central bank governors focus on the integrity of monetary policy amidst such influences. Since Pheu Thai assumed power in September 2023, their administration has frequently clashed with the Bank of Thailand. The government's core criticism lies in interest rates they consider overly restrictive, limiting economic mobility. Kittiratt's previous tenure as finance minister under Yingluck Shinawatra (2012-14) was marked by similar conflicts with central bank leadership. His current remarks followed the central bank's decision to maintain the key interest rate at 2.25%, foregoing the anticipated cut many believed would bolster economic growth. Though the central bank's Monetary Policy Committee opted to hold rates steady after an unexpected cut in October, Kittiratt remains steadfast. He acknowledged the committee's rationale while hinting at economic relief that could follow a rate reduction. Regarding his expected new role, Kittiratt remained circumspect. While confident, he emphasised the limitations of the chairmanship. "If you trust in my ability to do a good job, I must fulfil expectations," he pledged, clarifying the role as primarily advisory rather than executive. The Board of Governors at the Bank of Thailand includes three deputy governors alongside four external experts, chosen by the board itself, a process influenced by the board chairman. When the current governor, Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput, steps down in September 2025, Kittiratt's influence on selecting his successor will be significant. Navigating these waters will require diplomacy and strategic foresight, balancing political objectives with economic stability, while engaging with concerned stakeholders wary of potential shifts in monetary policy dynamics. Kittiratt's approach to this delicate task could define his tenure and the economic trajectory of Thailand, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-20

UPDATE: Tourist Arrested in Fatal Jet Ski Incident at Phuket Beach A 25-year-old tourist, reported in the Thai media as being Austrian, has been arrested in connection with a fatal jet ski collision that claimed the life of a Russian swimmer at Karon Beach on December 17. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346682-tourist-arrested-in-fatal-jet-ski-incident-at-phuket-beach/

Thai Medical Council Probes Ex-PM Thaksin's Extended Hospital Stay Picture courtesy: Naew Na The Medical Council of Thailand is scrutinising Police General Hospital over the former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's prolonged stay post-conviction, sparking questions about potential preferential treatment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346653-thai-medical-council-probes-ex-pm-thaksins-extended-hospital-stay/

Phuket Police Profile Transgender Workers for Tourist Safety Boost File photo for reference only In an effort to enhance public safety along Bangla Road in Phuket, local police have started compiling profiles of transgender individuals working in the bustling nightlife district. This initiative aims to reduce tourist altercations and encourage locals to become informants for crime prevention. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346654-phuket-police-profile-transgender-workers-for-tourist-safety-boost/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 20 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1346667-thailand-live-friday-20-december-2024/

Photo courtesy of Patong Police via The Phuket News Drunken drama: Russian hospitalised after Bangla brawl By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A night of partying on Bangla Road turned into chaos when a drunken Russian tourist was hospitalised after a violent altercation with security guards. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346661-drunken-drama-russian-hospitalised-after-bangla-brawl/

Thai Medical Council Probes Ex-PM Thaksin's Extended Hospital Stay Picture courtesy: Naew Na The Medical Council of Thailand is scrutinising Police General Hospital over the former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's prolonged stay post-conviction, sparking questions about potential preferential treatment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346653-thai-medical-council-probes-ex-pm-thaksins-extended-hospital-stay/

Picture courtesy: Naew Na The Medical Council of Thailand is scrutinising Police General Hospital over the former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's prolonged stay post-conviction, sparking questions about potential preferential treatment. A special sub-committee, led by former council president Dr Amorn Leelarasamee, is delving into the conduct of medical professionals involved in his care, inspecting whether ethical guidelines were compromised. The council recently dispatched a letter to the hospital’s director-general, demanding comprehensive documentation of Thaksin’s illness and the reasoning behind his extended hospital stay. Specifically, they have requested all medical records, the identities of the doctors involved, and their assessments during his six-month hospitalisation] - the period marked from his admission until February 2023. The deadline for furnishing this information is set for January 15th. Further amplifying the spotlight, political activists congregated at the National Anti-Corruption Commission this week, urging a timely investigation into Thaksin’s controversial hospitalisation, which needs completion within three months. Their scepticism grows from Thaksin's visibly active lifestyle post-release, which starkly contrasts the earlier narrative of his deteriorating health. Thaksin bore the expenses for his prolonged hospital stay, which amounted to a nightly 8,500 Thai Baht (£188) for a VIP suite on the 14th floor, as confirmed during a parliamentary session last month. Thaksin, who ventured from a career in the police force to becoming a business mogul and later a political leader, returned to Thailand on August 22nd the previous year after spending 15 years in self-induced exile. On his return, Thaksin was promptly detained by authorities and sentenced to eight years in prison due to charges of power abuse and conflict of interest during his tenure before 2006 - later reduced to a single year following royal clemency. His immediate transfer to the hospital was due to health concerns including chest pains and abnormal blood readings noted during his first night in custody. According to legal allowances, Thaksin’s treatment outside prison was initially sanctioned for 120 days; however, the Department of Corrections extended this to 180 days, citing life-threatening jail conditions. Thaksin, aged 75, was ultimately paroled on February 18th, described as "elderly and seriously ill" at the time, despite recent active public appearances without apparent ailments. This unfolding examination throws the duration of his unsupervised activities and implied ailments into contrast as Thaksin recently completed his prison term last August, while vigorously campaigning for the Pheu Thai Party, which is now spearheaded by his daughter, currently serving as Prime Minister, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-19

CCTV footage leads to arrest of caretaker for abuse of old woman by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ สืบนครบาล IDMB Police arrested a Thai caretaker for brutally abusing an 85 year old bedridden woman during her employment at the victim’s home in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346610-cctv-footage-leads-to-arrest-of-caretaker-for-abuse-of-old-woman/

Photo via Facebook/ สืบนครบาล IDMB by Petch Petpailin Police arrested a Thai caretaker for brutally abusing an 85 year old bedridden woman during her employment at the victim’s home in Bangkok. The victim’s son sought help from non-profit organisation Saimai Survive after viewing the CCTV footage of the brutal abuse of his mother. He filed a complaint against the suspect, later identified as 49 year old Napasorn, with the police on July 12. The case was transferred to the Investigation Division of the Metropolitan Bureau (IDMB). The son told the police that he turned to a Facebook group, Finding Caretaker for Elderly, to find someone to care for his old mother, Huay. Napasorn contacted him and presented her experience as a caretaker, so the son hired her. Her employment began on June 11 but on July 1, Huay’s son and his wife noticed wounds and bruises on Huay’s face and body. They then checked the security camera footage and saw Napasorn abusing Huay daily. She was seen pulling Huay roughly and beating her multiple times. The couple gathered all the evidence and summoned Napasorn for a discussion. According to the couple, Napasorn admitted to the physical abuse with no remorse. She did not apologise and even dared the family to take legal action against her. The couple researched social media and found many other victims who this woman had abused. IDMB police officers arrested Napasorn outside a house in Soi Rat Khajon in the Huay Kwang district of Bangkok on December 17. She was charged under Section 295 of the Criminal Code for physically assaulting another person, resulting in both physical and mental harm. Photo via Facebook/ สืบนครบาล IDMB Napasorn denied the allegations, claiming she had never received a summons and was unaware that she faced legal charges. However, police were not convinced by her claim, given the clear evidence from the security cameras. Napasorn faces a penalty of up to two years in prison, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both. No legal charges were filed against Huay’s son. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-19

Polish man sentenced for trafficking £100k of cannabis into UK by Bob Scott Picture of Arkadiusz Golab courtesy of Newcastle Evening Chronicle A young Polish man in the United Kingdom was sentenced to two years in a young offenders institution after pleading guilty to trafficking almost £100,000 (4.3 million baht) of cannabis into Newcastle International Airport in the North-East of England. He claimed he was coerced into the illicit operation by a threatening organised crime syndicate. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346605-polish-man-sentenced-for-trafficking-£100k-of-cannabis-into-uk/

Picture of Arkadiusz Golab courtesy of Newcastle Evening Chronicle by Bob Scott A young Polish man in the United Kingdom was sentenced to two years in a young offenders institution after pleading guilty to trafficking almost £100,000 (4.3 million baht) of cannabis into Newcastle International Airport in the North-East of England. He claimed he was coerced into the illicit operation by a threatening organised crime syndicate. On August 30, Border Force officials at Newcastle Airport became suspicious of Arkadiusz Golab, as he touched down on a flight from Dubai. A thorough search of the 20 year old man’s luggage unveiled 40 hefty packages of cannabis, tipping the scales at 23.6 kilos with a market value of £94,000. During proceedings at Newcastle Crown Court, prosecutor Neil Pallister made known that Golab journeyed from Manchester to Thailand, allegedly on orders from a crime network tasked with the retrieval of a mysterious package. Given a mobile phone and flight papers, he was instructed to buy a Thai SIM card, hop into a taxi, and head to a specified hotel in bustling Bangkok. At this hotel, Golab crossed paths with three individuals he believed were tied to the criminal enterprise. Several other men were also allegedly in on the gig, each receiving £100 (4,300 baht) daily to ferry packages back to the UK, said Pallister. Picture of Arkadiusz Golab courtesy of Newcastle Evening Chronicle “The defendant confessed he was approached multiple times to travel to Thailand for a pickup. Initially, he refused but eventually gave in. “Just before departure, another phone and return flight details were handed to him. At the airport, a crime syndicate member presented him with a loaded suitcase, instructing him to retrieve it upon arrival in Newcastle.” Upon his capture, Golab admitted he was promised £2,000 for successfully delivering the contraband to UK-based criminals. The young man from Gunby Road, Scunthorpe, pleaded guilty to evading restrictions on cannabis importation and was sentenced to two years in a young offenders institution. Kelly Clarke, his defence lawyer, painted Golab as a pawn in the crime syndicate’s game. “The defendant has asserted from the get-go he was pressured into this, it was far from voluntary. They were monitoring his family and issuing threats, hence his compliance. “Hoping it would be a one-time ordeal and eager to be left alone, he carried out the instructions. With no prior convictions and abstaining from drug use, he’s expressed deep regret over falling in with the wrong crowd. The defendant remains remorseful for becoming ensnared in the nefarious plot.” -- 2024-12-19

Three Missing Young Girls Found at Resort in Buriram Three young girls, aged 10, 12, and 15, were reported missing from their homes on the evening of 17th December, prompting a frantic search by worried parents and local authorities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346600-three-missing-young-girls-found-at-resort-in-buriram/

Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV Three young girls, aged 10, 12, and 15, were reported missing from their homes on the evening of 17th December, prompting a frantic search by worried parents and local authorities. By the following morning, however, the girls returned, sparking a surprising revelation that would put their guardians' minds at ease. Initially, there was concern when the girls claimed to have been unconscious and stranded in a forest overnight, with memories of what happened elusive. This mysterious tale prompted deeper questioning by their parents, who were sceptical about the possibility of being in such a state without showing signs of distress or injury. As more information came to light, the actual series of events were uncovered. The girls admitted they had, in fact, been with 24-year-old Thonpol, whom they met via a dating app. Thonpol picked the girls up and took them to a resort in Koumueang District, Buriram. Roj, the 15-year-old, explained that Tip, aged 12, had arranged to meet Thonpol through the app and that all three girls had willingly joined him at the resort. Once at the resort, Thonpol asked the younger girls to wait outside in the car while he stayed in the room with Roj. According to Roj's account, he kissed her, and they subsequently engaged in a consensual act. Though initially frightened to return home amidst the ongoing search, the girls decided to stay in Roj’s father’s house in the city until returning to their village. The case is now under investigation by local police, with Thonpol having been brought in for questioning. Despite denying any inappropriate behaviour, claiming only to have taken the girls to the resort, the potential charges are being scrutinised, particularly considering the girls’ ages—one of whom is under 13, another under 15, and the third under 18. The authorities are now pursuing further investigation, including medical examinations, to determine if any charges will be made, reported Amarin TV. -- 2024-12-19

Illegal Foreign Tour Guides Exploit Thai Visa Loopholes FILE photo courtesy: Thai Rath Efforts to curb illegal tour guides in Thailand face new challenges as visa-free stays and lax law enforcement allow foreigners to dominate the industry, warns the Professional Tourist Guides Association of Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346599-illegal-foreign-tour-guides-exploit-thai-visa-loopholes/