webfact

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/

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. Recent uproar on social media highlighted the issue when a Russian guide, unlawfully operating at the Similan Islands, used a Thai guide as a nominal front. The guide struggled to enforce national park regulations as tourists indulged in risky behaviours like jumping from rocks into shallow waters. Association committee member, Paisarn Suethanuwong, voiced concerns over foreigners exploiting Thailand’s thriving tourism sector. The introduction of visa-free policies, allowing stays of up to 60 days for tourists from 93 countries, inadvertently facilitates illegal work practices. Official data suggests tourists typically remain for around 15 days or less. However, Mr Paisarn pointed out cases of foreigners, notably Chinese individuals, engaging in unauthorised work at construction sites in Bangkok. Previously, foreign guides might poach jobs from licensed ones, but now they control business operations in places like Bangkok and Phuket. They openly target tourists from China, Russia, India, and South Korea, operating outside the law. "Thailand forfeits tens to hundreds of billions of Thai Baht due to these illegal practices, diverting tourism income abroad," lamented Mr Paisarn. He stressed the importance of law enforcement to tackle this issue, noting that guiding is a profession reserved for Thai nationals. Thailand has approximately 50,000 to 60,000 licensed tour guides, including 20,000 English-speaking and 10,000 Mandarin-speaking professionals. While Mr Paisarn acknowledged the potential shortfall, especially for languages like Russian and Polish, he adamantly opposes illegal foreign hiring. “A feasible strategy is to have Thai guides work with foreign tour leaders for support," he proposed. "Dominance by foreign operators is unlawful." He urges the government to connect legitimate tour guides with companies to provide employment opportunities, enhancing their practical skills and competitiveness against foreign counterparts. The rise of independent travellers and the decrease in large tour groups due to the pandemic hasn't severely impacted Thai tour guides, who continue to lead small private tours that often require escort services, notes Mr Paisarn. However, foreigners continue to seek and exploit loopholes, directly marketing to customers and further complicating the regulatory landscape. Robust regulatory and enforcement efforts are essential if the local industry is to thrive and maintain lawful practices, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-19

Pattaya Beach Swarms with Tourists; Locals Voice Concerns Picture courtesy: Facebook สายตรงนายกเมืองพัทยา As the high season unfolds, Pattaya Beach has become a hotspot for international tourists basking in the sun and enjoying Thailand's vibrant offerings. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346595-pattaya-beach-swarms-with-tourists-locals-voice-concerns/

Picture courtesy: Facebook สายตรงนายกเมืองพัทยา As the high season unfolds, Pattaya Beach has become a hotspot for international tourists basking in the sun and enjoying Thailand's vibrant offerings. However, alongside this seasonal influx, local residents have raised concerns over city infrastructure and management, sparking widespread discussions online about the city's capacity to handle its burgeoning popularity. Locals are particularly vocal about the city's road conditions, which they describe as anything but smooth. One resident quipped that navigating the roads is akin to traversing the moon's cratered landscape, highlighting the urgent need for roadway repairs. Attention is especially being drawn to South Pattaya Road, which is reportedly marred by sand and dust, transforming a simple motorbike ride into an undesirable adventure through a desert. A pattern of drawn-out or simultaneous road projects has driven frustration, with many calling for authorities to finish one endeavour before digging up another, thereby alleviating the perennial traffic chaos that ensues. The introduction of a one-way system on Jomtien Beach Road, intended to streamline traffic flow, has instead exacerbated congestion, demonstrating a potential misstep in urban planning. Another critical point of contention lies with the state of Pattaya's beaches. Despite their status as world-famous locations, residents feel their visual appeal is compromised by an overabundance of boats, leading some to compare the scene to a bustling harbour, rather than a serene seascape. Calls for improved cleanliness and environmental measures reflect a desire to safeguard the natural beauty that draws countless visitors each year. Amidst these complaints, it's clear that the city is teeming with foreign visitors, with beaches packed from sunrise to the stunning sunsets that Pattaya is known for. The seasonal boom is invigorating the local economy, as money flows freely with the influx of tourists. This, in turn, places a spotlight on the city's need to balance economic benefits with sustainable urban development. As residents voice frustrations, much of their critique lands on the desk of city officials, particularly the mayor, whom many believe should take robust action to address these growing pains. Urgent calls for improved traffic management, better road maintenance, and environmental stewardship underscore a community's desire to elevate Pattaya's status as a premier global tourist destination, not just a temporary hotspot. As Pattaya enjoys its peak season, the juxtaposition of economic vibrancy and logistical challenges presents an opportunity for city management to implement thoughtful solutions, ensuring this vibrant locale remains attractive to both visitors and residents alike, reported Pattaya Mail. -- 2024-12-19

File photo Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge Gate. Courtesy: Wikipedia The escalating human trafficking crisis in Thailand has drawn the attention of fourteen nations. With their citizens reportedly ensnared by fraudulent scam operations just over the border in Myanmar, concerns intensify over Thailand being used as a passageway into what some are describing as "hell on earth". At the centre of this alarming surge are online scam and human trafficking networks reportedly operating right across the Moei River from Mae Sot in Tak province. House Speaker Wan Muhammad Noor Matha, responding to appeals from both embassies and NGOs, convened a critical meeting on Wednesday to address the growing concerns. Notably, officials from Kenya and Sri Lanka have entreated Thailand for assistance in rescuing their nationals. The situation was spotlighted during a meeting of the Thai House of Representatives, where Fair Party MP Kannavee Suebsang urged for an enhanced mechanism to combat this grave issue. Emphasising that hundreds of thousands of foreigners traverse Mae Sot annually, Mr Kannavee suggested that while Thailand's existing frameworks address victim support, they are insufficient in arresting the root causes of trafficking. In a tactical response, Thai authorities recently established a checkpoint on Highway 12 in Mae Sot, aiming to intercept potential trafficking attempts. However, Mr Kannavee's call to action suggests this measure alone may not suffice. Advocacy from the civil society urges for broader and more comprehensive solutions from the nation's leadership to halt the country’s exploitation by international criminal syndicates. Picture courtesy: UN Women/Stephanie Simcox An advocacy group specialising in assisting trafficking victims revealed that over 300 individuals from more than ten countries are believed to be forcibly held in Myanmar, engaged in criminal enterprises such as online scams. Reports also indicate that Myanmar's Myawaddy region, located just across the river from Thai districts Mae Sot and Phop Phra, functions under the influence of entities like the Karen Border Guard Force and the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army. These groups are allegedly profiting substantially from such illicit activities, further complicating diplomatic and humanitarian solutions. Data from various embassies corroborate reports of citizens lured into these perilous situations. Beyond online fraud, the critical risks encompass human and drug trafficking, notably involving Rohingya people. As diplomatic dialogue intensifies, the emphasis remains on transforming Thailand's image from a conduit in these international networks to a nation resolutely opposing human exploitation. Thailand now stands at a crossroads, challenged to augment its measures against transnational human trafficking. The international community watches closely, as successful intervention here could set precedents for regional efforts to combat these heinous crimes, reported Bangkok Post -- 2024-12-19 .

Thailand Faces Pressure Over Alarming Human Trafficking Route File photo Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge Gate. Courtesy: Wikipedia The escalating human trafficking crisis in Thailand has drawn the attention of fourteen nations. With their citizens reportedly ensnared by fraudulent scam operations just over the border in Myanmar, concerns intensify over Thailand being used as a passageway into what some are describing as "hell on earth". Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346587-thailand-faces-pressure-over-alarming-human-trafficking-route/

File photo courtesy: Thai Rath In a somewhat paradoxical development, Thailand’s Election Commission (EC) finds itself unable to mandate former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to appear and provide evidence in a high-profile inquiry. The commission's investigation revolves around allegations that Thaksin wielded excessive influence over the ruling Pheu Thai Party. Navigating through these political waters, EC Chairman Ittiporn Boonpracong confirmed on Wednesday that while accusations have been lodged, the panel conducting the inquiry lacks the authority to summon Thaksin. Despite having gathered testimonies from those who lodged the complaints against the former premier and Pheu Thai, the absence of Thaksin remains a stumbling block. Mr. Ittiporn conceded that if Thaksin decides against cooperating, the panel is left to proceed with the limited information at its disposal. Nevertheless, he called upon the former leader to voluntarily contribute his side, suggesting that it would afford him an opportunity to clear his name and refute the accusations. The genesis of these complaints stems from a convergence of events in mid-August. It was reported that members of Pheu Thai alongside both current and former coalition partners met with Thaksin at his Bangkok residence. This gathering transpired after Srettha Thavisin was ousted from the prime ministership by the Constitutional Court on August 14th. During this meeting, potential successors to Mr. Srettha were discussed. In an intriguing twist, Thaksin is said to have played a role in steering these discussions, purportedly influencing the selection of a new prime ministerial candidate. The group initially leaned towards Chaikasem Nitisiri, a seasoned figure and former justice minister. However, subsequent developments saw Pheu Thai members propose Paetongtarn, Thaksin’s daughter, for the premiership. Leading the charge in these allegations are Warong Dechgitvigrom of the Thai Pakdee Party and Ruangkrai Leekitwattana of the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), among others. The complaints contend that Thaksin continued exerting influence over Pheu Thai, demonstrated through multiple media interviews discussing party policies and coalition dynamics. As the panel progresses with its findings, the sufficiency of the evidence collected will determine the succeeding steps. The EC secretary-general, acting in the capacity of the political party registrar, will decide on whether to advance the case, an outcome that remains fervently anticipated in the corridors of Thai politics. In this climate of political intricacies, the saga concerning Thaksin Shinawatra and the Pheu Thai Party continues to captivate public attention, spotlighting the ongoing interplay of power within the Thai political landscape, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-19

Thailand's Election Commission Powerless to Compel Thaksin to Testify File photo courtesy: Thai Rath In a somewhat paradoxical development, Thailand’s Election Commission (EC) finds itself unable to mandate former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to appear and provide evidence in a high-profile inquiry. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346582-thailands-election-commission-powerless-to-compel-thaksin-to-testify/

Thammanat and 20 MPs Realign with Klatham Party Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Former Palang Pracharath heavyweight, Thammanat Prompao, and his faction of 20 MPs are creating ripples in Thai politics as they transition to the Klatham party, shifting the dynamics within the current Pheu Thai-led coalition government. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346580-thammanat-and-20-mps-realign-with-klatham-party/

Picture courtesy: Thai RAth Former Palang Pracharath heavyweight, Thammanat Prompao, and his faction of 20 MPs are creating ripples in Thai politics as they transition to the Klatham party, shifting the dynamics within the current Pheu Thai-led coalition government. The strategic move, confirmed by party insiders, will see these lawmakers formally align with Klatham under the restless political waters of Thailand. Thammanat, who once held the position of secretary-general within the Palang Pracharath Party, recently parted ways with the group led by ex-deputy prime minister Prawit Wongsuwan. This departure paves the way for new political alliances and strategies, with Thammanat’s team rallying behind the Klatham party, steered by Agriculture & Cooperatives Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat. Narumon, known for her close associations with both Thammanat and Prawit, is poised to remain as the leader of Klatham, a crucial player in Thailand’s coalition framework. Meanwhile, Thammanat is expected to take on the role of chief advisor to the party, and MP Pai Lick is likely to be appointed as the secretary-general. This realignment is ostensibly driven by Thammanat’s desire to reinforce support for the Pheu Thai Party, Thailand's largest coalition member, amid speculations of influence from prominent political figure Thaksin Shinawatra. Thaksin is considered a de facto leader of Pheu Thai, despite his well-known exile. The defection from Palang Pracharath follows a critical political rupture earlier in the year. In August, 39 Palang Pracharath MPs had supported Thaksin's daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, as a prime ministerial candidate following the impeachment of Srettha Thavisin. However, only Thammanat’s group of 20 MPs were reportedly manoeuvred by Thaksin to actively align with Pheu Thai, leaving their former colleagues in opposition territory. Prawit’s absence from the parliamentary sessions during the pivotal nomination also hints at broader divisions within the opposition ranks. Moreover, Thaksin’s recent, albeit vague, accusations have fueled speculation, implying Prawit’s covert involvement with senators to initially elevate Srettha, which climaxed in political turmoil leading to his impeachment on misconduct charges. This realignment presents a crucial chapter in contemporary Thai politics and raises questions about future coalition stability and allegiance shifts. It's a shifting terrain where alliances could redefine governmental landscapes and policy directions, carrying implications beyond partisan rivalries to broader governance and policy execution in Thailand, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-12-19

Thaksin Accused of Using Money to Secure Power and Privilege Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The political landscape in Thailand is abuzz as former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra faces accusations of leveraging his wealth to secure power and privilege since his return from self-imposed exile. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346579-thaksin-accused-of-using-money-to-secure-power-and-privilege/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The political landscape in Thailand is abuzz as former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra faces accusations of leveraging his wealth to secure power and privilege since his return from self-imposed exile. A joint petition has been filed with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) by a coalition of former Red and Yellow Shirt activists, urging an investigation into potential misconduct by high-ranking government officials. The core of the allegation focuses on Thaksin's controversial return to Thailand last year, following which he allegedly bypassed the country's legal and judicial norms. Since then, the billionaire, who is also the father of current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has been accused of manipulating the system to avoid serving a curtailed one-year prison sentence. Instead of serving time in Bangkok Remand Prison, Thaksin reportedly spent six months at Police Hospital, claiming critical health conditions—an assertion shrouded in secrecy and scepticism. Among those targeted by the allegations are several senior officials, including Justice Minister Thavee Sodsong, Undersecretary for Justice Pongsawat Neelayothin, Corrections Department Director-General Sahakarn Petchnarin, and Police Hospital Chief Doctor, Pol. Lt. Gen. Thavisilp Vechavitharn. The petitioners argue these officials abused their positions to grant undue privileges to Thaksin—an action they assert amounts to abuse of power and misconduct. The group of petitioners includes notable figures such as former Red Shirt leader Jatuporn Prompan, ex-Yellow Shirt leader and former senator Kaewsan Atibodhi, and Thai Pakdee chair Warong Dechgitvigrom. Their appeal for investigation comes hot on the heels of the NACC's decision to launch an ad hoc committee dedicated to examining these allegations of power abuse and misconduct linked to Thaksin's case. A prior effort by a fact-finding committee from the NACC found it challenging to gather concrete medical evidence to substantiate Thaksin's health claims during his stay at Police Hospital. The lack of significant medical records following his release on parole earlier this year only adds to the intrigue and suspicion surrounding his case. As the investigation unfolds, the specter of billions of Thai Baht looms over these accusations, drawing public and governmental scrutiny. The developing events are set to draw the nation and its observers' attention, raising questions about the influence of wealth and power within Thailand's complex political landscape, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-12-19

Russian Tourist Fined for Flashy Christmas Lights on Car in Pattaya Photo: The Pattaya News A Russian tourist in Pattaya, named Mr. Ivanov, was fined for decorating his car with flashing Christmas lights, unaware that it was against the law in Thailand. On December 17th, around 6:01 PM, Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346559-russian-tourist-fined-for-flashy-christmas-lights-on-car-in-pattaya/

Thailand rolls out red carpet with bigger rebates for filmmakers By Puntid Tantivangphaisal File photo for reference only The Thail Cabinet approved an increase in the rebate offered to foreign film productions, raising it to a range of 15 to 30% to attract more international filmmakers to shoot in the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346560-thailand-rolls-out-red-carpet-with-bigger-rebates-for-filmmakers/

Thailand Unveils E-Visa System, Streamlining Travel for 2025 Thailand has launched its pioneering Thai E-Visa system, set to revolutionise travel from January 1, 2025. This new digital approach will allow international travellers to obtain their visas online, eliminating the need for paperwork and embassy visits. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346569-thailand-unveils-e-visa-system-streamlining-travel-for-2025/