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Thailand braces for cold spell with mountain lows of 5 degrees by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand is experiencing a cold spell today, with mountain peak temperatures dropping to a minimum of 5 degrees Celsius (°C). Fog blankets Bangkok this morning, while the south faces thunderstorms due to moderate monsoon winds. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346821-thailand-braces-for-cold-spell-with-mountain-lows-of-5-degrees/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Thailand is experiencing a cold spell today, with mountain peak temperatures dropping to a minimum of 5 degrees Celsius (°C). Fog blankets Bangkok this morning, while the south faces thunderstorms due to moderate monsoon winds. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasts a chilling climate for the next 24 hours as a moderate cold air mass settles over northern and upper southern Thailand. This climatic condition brings cold weather with morning fog across the upper regions. Northeastern and northern areas are notably cooler, with mountain peaks experiencing very cold to freezing conditions and occasional frost. Residents in these regions are advised to maintain their health amidst the cold and remain cautious of potential fire hazards due to dry, windy conditions. TMD warns of cold to freezing weather today, particularly in the north. Meanwhile, the northeast monsoon sweeping across the Gulf of Thailand and the south has resulted in scattered thunderstorms in the lower southern region. Waves in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea are moderate, with the lower Gulf seeing waves up to 2 metres high. Areas experiencing thunderstorms could see waves exceeding 2 metres, prompting a warning for seafarers to exercise caution and avoid areas with thunderstorms. “Dust and haze accumulation in upper Thailand remains moderate due to prevailing winds and ventilation.” Weather forecast The northern region will be chilly to cold with light morning fog. Temperatures range from 15 to 18°C, peaking at 29 to 31°C. Mountain peaks are very cold, with lows between 5 and 12°C and occasional frost. Northeasterly winds blow at 10 to 15 kilometres per hour (km/h). The northeastern region sees temperatures ranging from 12 to 17°C, reaching highs of 28 to 31°C. Mountain peaks are very cold, with lows between 7 and 12°C. Northeasterly winds range from 10 to 25 km/h. The central region will be chilly, with morning fog. Temperatures range from 17 to 19°C, peaking at 31 to 32°C. Northeasterly winds blow at 10 to 20 km/h. The eastern region will see temperatures ranging from 17 to 21°C, with highs of 30 to 32°C. Northeasterly winds range from 15 to 30 km/h. Seas have waves about 1 metre high, increasing to 1 to 2 metres offshore. The southern region (east coast) have cool mornings in the upper part, with thunderstorms affecting 20% of areas, mainly in Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures range from 19 to 26°C, peaking at 28 to 32°C. Northeasterly winds range from 15 to 35 km/h, with sea waves between 1 and 2 metres. Areas with thunderstorms may see waves exceeding 2 metres. From Songkhla southward, winds range from 20 to 35 km/h, with sea waves about 2 metres high, reported KhaoSod. The southern region (west coast) will see thunderstorms affecting 10% of areas, mainly in Trang and Satun. Temperatures range from 23 to 25°C, with highs of 32 to 34°C. Northeasterly winds range from 15 to 30 km/h. Sea waves are about 1 metre high, increasing to 1 to 2 metres offshore. Areas with thunderstorms may see waves exceeding 2 metres. Bangkok and its vicinity will have temperatures ranging from 19 to 21°C, with highs of 29 to 32°C. Northeasterly winds blow at 10 to 20 km/h. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-21

Thai Court Rules Traffic Fines Can't Block Vehicle Tax Renewal Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a landmark decision, Thailand's Administrative Court has ruled that outstanding traffic fines cannot be used as grounds to deny motorists their annual vehicle tax renewal. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346811-thai-court-rules-traffic-fines-cant-block-vehicle-tax-renewal/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a landmark decision, Thailand's Administrative Court has ruled that outstanding traffic fines cannot be used as grounds to deny motorists their annual vehicle tax renewal. This case revolved around Amnat Kaewprasong, who faced an unexpected hurdle when the Bangkok office of the Department of Land Transport refused to issue his tax decal due to an unpaid 500 baht fine related to a speeding offence. Kaewprasong brought the issue to court, arguing that the denial was both unjust and contrary to legal procedures. The court sided with him, instructing the Department of Land Transport to provide the necessary vehicle tax decal within three days from the date the judgement took effect. Additionally, the court mandated compensation to Kaewprasong of 3,151.50 baht for the inconvenience caused, along with interest at a rate of 3% per annum. The crux of the court's decision emphasised that while an electronic data-sharing agreement between the Department of Land Transport and the Royal Thai Police was in place to streamline enforcement of traffic regulations, the police failed to adhere to required legal procedures. Notably, the traffic department had not issued the formal notices required by law for the unpaid fine, nor was there evidence of communication regarding the non-compliance. Without such notifications, the court maintained that the department had overreached its authority by refusing the tax renewal. The decision sets a significant precedent, reinforcing the principle that due process must be followed, and outstanding fines alone cannot justify withholding essential documents like a vehicle tax decal. By ensuring these checks and balances are respected, the ruling protects motorists from bureaucratic overreach and underscores the need for lawful and transparent communication between governmental bodies and the public. This outcome is likely to have wider implications for how traffic fines are enforced and may prompt procedural reforms within the involved agencies to avoid similar situations in the future, reported Thai Rath. -- 2024-12-21

Thaksin Outlines Vision for Transforming Thailand's Northeast File photo courtesy: Facebook sorrayuth9115 In a speech at Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has unveiled an ambitious new vision for the Isaan region. Speaking under the theme "The Future of Isaan: Opportunities for Thailand," Thaksin called for sweeping changes across education, technology, and economic policies to rejuvenate the oft-overlooked Northeastern Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346793-thaksin-outlines-vision-for-transforming-thailands-northeast/

Thai F-16 Fighters Intercept Myanmar Jet in Airspace Breach F-16 file photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a swift response to a potential security threat yesterday, two F-16 fighters from the Thai air force were deployed to intercept an unidentified aircraft intruding into Thai airspace. This incident occurred over Popphra district in Tak province, which borders Myawaddy township in Myanmar. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346806-thai-f-16-fighters-intercept-myanmar-jet-in-airspace-breach/

F-16 file photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a swift response to a potential security threat yesterday, two F-16 fighters from the Thai air force were deployed to intercept an unidentified aircraft intruding into Thai airspace. This incident occurred over Popphra district in Tak province, which borders Myawaddy township in Myanmar. The alert was raised at around 11 a.m. when radar systems detected the aircraft entering Thai airspace at an altitude of 4,000-5,000 feet. The air force's interception flight control promptly ordered the F-16s to take off from their base at Wing 4 in Takhli district, Nakhon Sawan province. The fighters ascended to 7,000 feet, on a mission to identify and potentially ward off the intruding jet. The quick deployment underscores the air force's readiness to protect national sovereignty and the integrity of Thailand’s airspace, as stressed by ACM Prapass Sonjai, the air force spokesman. "The rapid interception underscores our capability to respond to threats and ensure security for our citizens near border areas," he stated. Upon reaching the location, the Thai jets discovered that the intruding aircraft had vanished from radar screens. Concluding the initial phase of their mission, the F-16s continued to patrol the border region until returning safely to base at 12:14 p.m. While the aircraft's origin remains officially unidentified, this incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding airspace violations and regional tensions. The interception demonstrates Thailand's proactive stance in safeguarding its airspace, particularly along volatile border areas where incursions, whether accidental or deliberate, pose severe security risks. Such operations are critical in maintaining regional peace and stability, showcasing Thailand’s capabilities and commitment to defending its boundaries. It's pivotal for the Thai air force to remain vigilant and prepared for any future breaches that could escalate into broader conflicts. As the incident demonstrated no immediate threat, diplomatic channels may play a role in addressing and preventing future airspace violations, potentially easing tensions between neighbouring nations. This event spotlights the continuing necessity for robust air defense mechanisms and international cooperation to prevent misunderstandings that could lead to more significant regional issues. The air force's decisive action reflects its vital role in national security, promising steadfast protection of the airspace across Thailand, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-12-21

File photo courtesy: Facebook sorrayuth9115 In a speech at Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has unveiled an ambitious new vision for the Isaan region. Speaking under the theme "The Future of Isaan: Opportunities for Thailand," Thaksin called for sweeping changes across education, technology, and economic policies to rejuvenate the oft-overlooked Northeastern Thailand. Stressing the significance of education, Thaksin proposed creating a university focused on human development in Isaan. This institution would prioritise practical knowledge alongside traditional learning, with a strong emphasis on integrating technology. "Education should not stop at degrees," he remarked, "It should empower Isaan people to thrive in a modern economy." Innovative ideas, like using lottery funds to either send students abroad or bring foreign teachers into summer camps, formed part of his educational strategy. Thaksin referenced his earlier successes with model schools and suggested these could be revived to foster a new generation of skilled workers. Thaksin didn't shy away from critiquing existing practices such as monopolistic approaches in critical sectors like rice exports. He urged the government to harness technology, enabling local farmers to reach international markets through e-commerce. This shift could drastically reduce intermediaries and increase profits at the grassroots level. Further, he proposed modernising the OTOP (One Tambon One Product) programme with AI and soft power techniques, which would bolster Isaan as a competitive hub. Universities, envisioned as centres for AI learning, could drive this initiative, equipping locals with the skills necessary for a changing economic landscape. Tackling Thailand’s ballooning public debt—over 60% of GDP—Thaksin suggested issuing public-oriented cryptocurrency-backed bonds. This maneuver could inject needed capital into regional economies, potentially increasing GDP growth from the current 2% to a robust 4%. He highlighted the financial imbalances where profits are siphoned to Bangkok, leaving Isaan economically parched, implying bonds tailored for Isaan might just provide the financial liberation the region needs. Labour migration remains a pressing issue, with skilled workers flocking to Bangkok for better opportunities. Thaksin proposed strengthening local job creation and enhancing educational prospects to lure talent back. Finally, addressing alarming drug abuse rates among the youth, Thaksin cited current governmental efforts to curb this trend through proactive measures, underscoring that social development must go hand in hand with economic reforms. Thaksin’s vision represents a comprehensive plan to elevate Isaan, aiming to maximise its potential by addressing both structural and societal challenges head-on. With these reforms, Isaan may very well be on the cusp of a revitalisation, reported The Nation. -- 2024-12-21

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath PATTAYA - In a chilling case that gripped international audiences, the Pattaya Provincial Court has handed down death sentences to three individuals involved in the murder of Hans Peter Ralter Mack, a 62-year-old German property mogul. The murder, which occurred on 5th July 2023, involved abduction, killing, and dismemberment, creating shockwaves due to its brutality. The heinous crime took place in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung, Chonburi. Following intense investigations, Region 2 Provincial Police and Nong Prue police apprehended Olaf Thorsten Brinkmann, 52, along with his accomplices, Petra Christl Grundgreif, 54, and Shahruik Karim Uddin, 27, a Thai national of Pakistani descent. The group was accused of luring Mack to his death, dismembering his body, and attempting to dispose of the remains at sea. They also allegedly transferred 3,350,000 baht from Mack's bank accounts. On 20th December, the courtroom witnessed a decisive judgement. All three defendants were found guilty of premeditated murder and body concealment. Olaf Brinkmann and Petra Grundgreif confessed to their roles, which led to a reduction of their sentences from death to life imprisonment. Shahruik Uddin, however, continued to assert his innocence throughout the trial and received the death penalty. This conviction follows a previous ruling on 22nd November. Enrico, another German national, was sentenced to six years in prison for his involvement in financial transactions linked to the crime. Charged with allowing his account to be used for monetary transfers from Olaf Brinkmann, he was found guilty of facilitating the crime and handling stolen property, reported Siam Rath. Picture courtesy: Daily ews -- 2024-12-21

Three Sentenced to Death for Murder and Dismemberment of German Businessman in Pattaya Picture courtesy: Siam Rath PATTAYA - In a chilling case that gripped international audiences, the Pattaya Provincial Court has handed down death sentences to three individuals involved in the murder of Hans Peter Ralter Mack, a 62-year-old German property mogul. The murder, which occurred on 5th July 2023, involved abduction, killing, and dismemberment, creating shockwaves due to its brutality. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346791-three-sentenced-to-death-for-murder-and-dismemberment-of-german-businessman-in-pattaya/

Thai Virologist Dismisses Norovirus Outbreak 'Fake News' Dr. Yong. File photo courtesy: NNT A wave of concern has swept through Thailand following rumours of an alleged norovirus outbreak. However, experts, including a leading virologist from Chulalongkorn University, are urging calm, labelling the reports as misinformation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346757-thai-virologist-dismisses-norovirus-outbreak-fake-news/

PM Paetongtarn crowned Politician of the Year in Bangkok poll By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Riau Pos Move over, rivals! Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has stormed ahead in the political popularity race, clinching the top spot in a nationwide survey that crowned her Politician of the Year 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346770-pm-paetongtarn-crowned-politician-of-the-year-in-bangkok-poll/

Indian passengers turn Thai AirAsia plane into party zone - video By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Odisha TV India A flight to Thailand turned into a scene of mid-air mayhem, sparking outrage online after a viral video showcased the unruly behaviour of Indian passengers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346756-indian-passengers-turn-thai-airasia-plane-into-party-zone-video/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 21 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1346790-thailand-live-saturday-21-december-2024/

File photo for reference only Pattaya bar girl scams 10 million baht from South Korean man by Petch Petpailin A South Korean man lost more than 10 million baht to a Thai woman he met in Pattaya. The woman even claimed that she died of cancer to scam the foreigner out of his money. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346718-pattaya-bar-girl-scams-10-million-baht-from-south-korean-man/

Thai Virologist Dismisses Norovirus Outbreak 'Fake News' Dr. Yong. File photo courtesy: NNT A wave of concern has swept through Thailand following rumours of an alleged norovirus outbreak. However, experts, including a leading virologist from Chulalongkorn University, are urging calm, labelling the reports as misinformation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346757-thai-virologist-dismisses-norovirus-outbreak-fake-news/

Dr. Yong. File photo courtesy: NNT A wave of concern has swept through Thailand following rumours of an alleged norovirus outbreak. However, experts, including a leading virologist from Chulalongkorn University, are urging calm, labelling the reports as misinformation. In a clarifying statement released via Facebook on Thursday, Dr Yong Poovorawan, who heads the Centre of Excellence in Clinical Virology, reassured the public that there is no cause for alarm. Dr Yong, who has been researching noroviruses for over a decade, emphasised the natural diversity of the virus and its usual activity during cooler months. While norovirus incidents have been notably lower in recent years due to increased hygiene during the Covid-19 pandemic, Dr Yong noted a recent uptick as hygiene practices have become relaxed. The chatter about a significant outbreak allegedly affecting Thai schools in early November gained momentum after being shared widely on social platforms. The post suggested the situation was dire, with claims of widespread sickness among students and staff. However, Dr Yong clarified that the referenced outbreak actually occurred in China, not Thailand, as social media posts mistakenly indicated. "It's normal to see more norovirus cases during winter, similar to how we see increases in rotavirus cases. There's no need for panic," Dr Yong stated. In a coordinated effort to dispel fears, the Department of Health also tackled claims regarding an outbreak in Rayong. Social media reports had suggested that 1,436 students and teachers fell ill after a sports day event in early November. Officials were quick to label these claims as false, explaining that the actual culprit for the illness was identified as Escherichia coli, not norovirus. The department highlighted the importance of proper hygiene to prevent E. coli infections. With public anxiety brewing over such unsubstantiated reports, authorities are urging citizens to verify information through trustworthy sources before accepting it as fact. The impact of misinformation can be costly, not just financially but in terms of unnecessary panic and disruption. Despite the social media frenzy, it seems the real virus causing a stir is fake news. For the concerned Thai public, the message from health experts and officials is clear: keep calm, practice good hygiene, and always scrutinise the sources of your information, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-20

Photo via Tero Asia by Petch Petpailin A South Korean man lost more than 10 million baht to a Thai woman he met in Pattaya. The woman even claimed that she died of cancer to scam the foreigner out of his money. The South Korean victim, identified only as Danny, appeared on the Thai news programme ถกไม่เถียง (translated as Discussing, Not Arguing) on Channel 7 yesterday, December 19, to share his story of falling victim to a romance scam. Danny explained that he met the woman, who later scammed him, at a bar in Pattaya in December 2020. He noticed her unhappy demeanour and later discovered that she did not want to work there. Danny asked her to stop working and offered to support her financially. Their relationship officially began in January 2021. Danny revealed that he travelled back and forth between Thailand and South Korea, sending the woman between 40,000 and 50,000 baht each month. Typically, he would visit Thailand every two months and stay for 10 days before returning to South Korea. Later, the woman requested additional money, claiming her father passed away. Danny gave her 100,000 baht for her father’s funeral. Photo via Channel 7 The woman continued to request more money, citing various reasons. In addition to supporting his girlfriend, Danny also sent money to her relatives at her request. The woman claimed she needed 250,000 baht for a car accident, 100,000 baht for her coffee shop, 400,000 baht for further treatment from a car accident, 800,000 baht for the loss of their unborn baby, 400,000 baht for her brother’s gambling debts, and 1.6 million baht for cancer treatment. Fake death Danny believed the cancer claim as he saw her speaking to a doctor via video call. However, after paying for her supposed cancer treatment, Danny never saw her again. She claimed she could not meet him due to the severity of her condition. Danny realised he had been scammed when the woman’s sister contacted him, saying that his girlfriend died of cancer on December 11. Photo via Channel 7 Danny immediately travelled from South Korea to Thailand and searched for his girlfriend at the hospital and temple mentioned by her sister but found no evidence of her death. The sister claimed the body was at Siriraj Hospital and demanded 2 million baht for the funeral. The sister also told Danny that his girlfriend had a life insurance policy worth 5 million baht, which would be shared between him and the sister. However, Danny was told he needed to pay 10% of the amount, 500,000 baht, to the insurance company to claim the money. Danny searched for his girlfriend’s body again but found nothing. He then realised everything had been a lie. The woman and her family members subsequently blocked all contact with him. Danny insisted he would take legal action against the woman and the other five to six individuals involved in the scam. Channel 7 reporter that the South Korean man has not yet filed a complaint with Thai police. Photo via YouTube/ Tero Digital Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-20

Pattaya bar girl scams 10 million baht from South Korean man by Petch Petpailin Photo via Tero Asia A South Korean man lost more than 10 million baht to a Thai woman he met in Pattaya. The woman even claimed that she died of cancer to scam the foreigner out of his money. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346718-pattaya-bar-girl-scams-10-million-baht-from-south-korean-man/

Thai mother profited 150,000 baht from selling free nasal spray by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A troubling incident has come to light involving a mother who allegedly exploited the healthcare system by collecting free nasal spray medication from hospitals and selling it online. She reportedly visited 31 locations, amassing 318 bottles and profiting approximately 150,000 baht (US$4,340). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346732-thai-mother-profited-150000-baht-from-selling-free-nasal-spray/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Bright Choomanee A troubling incident has come to light involving a mother who allegedly exploited the healthcare system by collecting free nasal spray medication from hospitals and selling it online. She reportedly visited 31 locations, amassing 318 bottles and profiting approximately 150,000 baht (US$4,340). The National Health Security Office (NHSO) in Thailand has launched an urgent investigation into the matter, vowing to take strict action against such misuse. The incident gained attention following a post on a popular Thai web forum, Pantip, where a member questioned, “Should the healthcare system collapse with parents selling their child’s free medication?” The post detailed how the mother appeared unconcerned about her daughter’s need for the medication, choosing instead to profit by selling it. The post also speculated on whether the mother had become too accustomed to exploiting the system, given her alleged track record of selling previous batches. The post went viral, sparking outrage and prompting further scrutiny. According to reports, the woman managed to sell each bottle of nasal spray for 500 baht (US$15), accumulating a significant profit while hospitals complained about insufficient Nasal spray The NHSO, which oversees the universal health coverage in Thailand, is taking these allegations very seriously. Yesterday, December 19, Atthaporn Limpanyalert, Deputy Secretary General of the NHSO, addressed the situation, expressing gratitude for the information shared online. Atthaporn reiterated the importance of the universal health coverage system, designed to ensure everyone has access to healthcare without financial barriers. “Selling medication provided by hospitals online is inappropriate and unfair to other patients. It unnecessarily burdens medical staff and violates the law.” Preliminary investigations confirmed irregularities in the frequency of the mother’s visits to obtain medication. The NHSO tasked the relevant regional office with investigating whether the medication was collected from a single service unit or multiple locations. They also advised the recording of these activities in official logs to address the overall damage to the national health insurance fund caused by such actions. Affordable healthcare The NHSO’s fund is financed by public taxes, designed to cover medical expenses for citizens, particularly those holding the 30-baht gold card, which allows for affordable healthcare services. The deputy secretary general highlighted that if medications are collected too frequently, especially from clinics or emergency rooms during off-hours, it adds unnecessary pressure on medical staff who must prioritise more urgent cases. In response to this incident, the NHSO plans to collaborate with relevant healthcare service providers to gather comprehensive data and swiftly address any abnormalities. They are particularly focused on the distribution of nasal spray medication used to alleviate allergy symptoms, as highlighted in the news. If investigations confirm the sale of these medications, the NHSO intends to pursue legal action to the fullest extent. Atthaporn issued a stern warning to those involved in such activities or considering similar actions, emphasising the legal consequences and the harm inflicted on the national health insurance system, which serves as a crucial health safety net for all Thai citizens, reported KhaoSod. The NHSO urges anyone with relevant information to come forward, promising prompt action to rectify the situation. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-20

UPDATE: Koh Pha Ngan drug bust: Italian, French, Russian men arrested by Petch Petpailin Photo via Naewna 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. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346700-foreign-drug-trafficker-arrested-on-koh-phangan-with-money-laundering-operation-uncovered/#findComment-19458812

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