webfact

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 18 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1346453-thailand-live-wednesday-18-december-2024/

Photo via DailyNews UPDATE: By Petch Petpailin Police apologise with 10 sit-ups after cop fires gun outside Bangkok nightclub All 140 officers at Thong Lo Police Station performed 10 sit-ups today, December 17, as an apology after an officer fired a gun into the sky outside a nightclub on Soi Thong Lo 10 in Bangkok on Saturday, December 14. Police Sergeant Major Montri Meedate brought embarrassment and disgrace to Thong Lo Police Station last Saturday night. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346402-thai-police-officer-suspended-for-firing-gun-outside-thonglor-pub/#findComment-19453251

BB Gun Shop Fight on Walking Street in Pattaya Sparks Panic Among Tourists By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A fight between staff from two BB gun shops in Pattaya, involving knives and a firearm, caused panic among tourists early this morning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346446-bb-gun-shop-fight-on-walking-street-in-pattaya-sparks-panic-among-tourists/

By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A fight between staff from two BB gun shops in Pattaya, involving knives and a firearm, caused panic among tourists early this morning. At 4:06 AM, on December 17th, Pattaya police received a report about a fight on Walking Street in South Pattaya. The fight involved two caretakers of different BB Gun shops in the area, prompting officers to rush to the scene. Upon arrival, officers found foreign tourists panicked and frightened by the incident. One involved party had fled, leaving the victim, identified only as Mr. Niran, 43, at the scene with a minor knife wound to his left rib area. He explained to police that the altercation stemmed from an earlier dispute, in which he allegedly punched the suspect named Mr. Chart, 43. Mr. Niran claimed that Mr. Chart returned to seek revenge from him, leading to a fight. Mr. Niran was taken to the police station to file an official complaint. Authorities searched the area but found no weapons. There were no reports of injuries to tourists or locals, but many were left shaken by the incident. Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-12-17

Thai Central Bank Under Pressure to Cut Interest Rates Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In an effort to invigorate inflation and support the Thai economy, Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavachira has renewed his call for the Bank of Thailand to lower its policy interest rate. The appeal comes ahead of the Monetary Policy Committee's (MPC) meeting on Wednesday, where decisions about rate adjustments are expected to be made. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346443-bank-of-thailand-faces-pressure-to-cut-rates/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In an effort to invigorate inflation and support the Thai economy, Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavachira has renewed his call for the Bank of Thailand to lower its policy interest rate. The appeal comes ahead of the Monetary Policy Committee's (MPC) meeting on Wednesday, where decisions about rate adjustments are expected to be made. Despite the plea from the Finance Ministry, the authority to change the rate rests solely with the MPC. Minister Pichai has been in close dialogue with the bank, consistently supplying economic data to strengthen the case for a rate cut. As it stands, Thai interest rates are at 2.25%, a level deemed 'neutral' by many economists. Inflation management is a key concern, with the Finance Ministry set to put forward a 2025 target framework to the cabinet this month. The aim is to guide the central bank in maintaining inflation within a target range, somewhat higher than the current rate which hovers below expectations. In a related move, the minister is also progressing initiatives like the 10,000 baht (£215) cash handout programme for seniors, aiming for a rollout next month during Chinese New Year. This measure is one of several designed to stimulate the economy. Local research firms, including the Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research), largely predict that the MPC will maintain the existing rate. Their rationale is to preserve monetary policy space amidst rising uncertainties expected next year. This strategic patience may last until February 2025, when another rate cut could occur if economic conditions warrant it. The backdrop of these discussions includes potential international economic threats, such as the possibility of the US imposing higher import tariffs on countries including Thailand. There is also concern about increased competition from Chinese products, possibly impacting Thai manufacturers adversely. Such challenges could place additional strain on an economy that is currently buoyed by tourism and government spending. K-Research and others expect inflation in 2025 to linger below the bank's target of 1-3%. Thus, carefully calibrated rate cuts might become necessary to shield the economy from these external and internal pressures. Meanwhile, banks like Krungsri and Siam Commercial Bank's research arms echo the sentiment that maintaining the rate for now is prudent. They note that the MPC needs to gauge the impact of previous rate changes and government policy measures comprehensively. Ultimately, the MPC's future decisions will hinge on data, inflation trends, and overall economic stability, elements that remain enveloped in uncertainty amidst shifting global economic dynamics. As the situation evolves, both the timing and magnitude of potential interest rate adjustments will be critical in charting Thailand's economic course, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-17

Thailand investigates ex-police chiefs over gambling corruption by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of bangkokbiznews Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has decided to investigate Torsak “Big Tor” Sukvimol, a former national police chief, over allegations of soliciting money from online gambling networks. Additionally, the NACC will gather more evidence regarding money laundering accusations against Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, a former deputy police chief. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346420-thailand-investigates-ex-police-chiefs-over-gambling-corruption/

Picture courtesy of bangkokbiznews by Bright Choomanee Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has decided to investigate Torsak “Big Tor” Sukvimol, a former national police chief, over allegations of soliciting money from online gambling networks. Additionally, the NACC will gather more evidence regarding money laundering accusations against Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, a former deputy police chief. The NACC, represented by its Secretary General Saroj Puengrampan, announced that the commission had examined significant cases capturing public interest. One such case involves allegations against Torsak, who allegedly accepted money or assets linked to crimes involving online gambling and other illegal businesses, spanning 18 different categories. Following an initial review, the commission found sufficient facts and evidence to warrant a full investigation. It was decided that the entire NACC board would oversee the inquiry under the Anti-Corruption Act of 2018, section 51. This investigation will focus on Torsak and seven other individuals. Should further evidence reveal the involvement of additional parties, the investigation will extend to those individuals as well, said Saroj during the announcement. “The investigation into Torsak and his associates is crucial given the severity of the allegations.” In parallel, the NACC is also addressing accusations against Big Joke, who is alleged to have received benefits from online gambling businesses. He is accused of conspiring with at least two others to commit money laundering and related offences, including accepting assets exceeding 3,000 baht (US$88), reported KhaoSod. The commission has reviewed preliminary investigation reports and resolved to instruct officials to collect further factual evidence. This additional information will be presented at a subsequent NACC meeting for further deliberation. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-17

Australian tourist escapes drowning amid South Thailand flooding by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod An Australian tourist had a narrow escape from drowning in South Thailand after his car plunged into a flooded ditch amidst severe flooding in Nakhon Si Thammarat. The deluge has affected 21 districts, severing numerous roads and resulting in the tragic loss of four lives. As heavy rainfall continues to worsen the situation, rescue teams are tirelessly working to assist those in dire need. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346415-australian-tourist-escapes-drowning-amid-south-thailand-flooding/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal An Australian tourist had a narrow escape from drowning in South Thailand after his car plunged into a flooded ditch amidst severe flooding in Nakhon Si Thammarat. The deluge has affected 21 districts, severing numerous roads and resulting in the tragic loss of four lives. As heavy rainfall continues to worsen the situation, rescue teams are tirelessly working to assist those in dire need. The ongoing crisis in Nakhon Si Thammarat has escalated as persistent heavy rain causes widespread flooding across almost all districts. The Nakhon-Phra Phrom Road, near the Central Nakhon Si Thammarat shopping mall, is heavily inundated, leaving small vehicles unable to pass. Similar conditions prevail on the Naphru-Benjama Road, connecting Phra Phrom and Mueang districts, where the western side is impassable. Vehicles can only traverse via the eastern route, where swift currents make driving hazardous. Many cars have broken down, with five to six vehicles stranded, requiring towing assistance. The unnamed Australian tourist, unfamiliar with the route, encountered peril when his car veered off the road into a water-filled ditch. Fortunately, he had the presence of mind to open the car window, allowing him to swim to safety. The floodwaters also engulf Thew Buri Road, in front of the Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Administrative Organisation. Residents wade through water more than 1 metre deep seeking help. Near Ramkhamhaeng University in Tha Sai subdistrict, Phra Phrom district, the floodwaters are so high that neither small nor large vehicles can pass. Rescue teams are actively assessing the situation and providing urgent assistance to affected residents. In Navat alley within the Nakhon Si Thammarat municipality, a low-lying community, floodwaters over 1 metre deep led to the discovery of a deceased man, unidentified, whose body was caught in the alley. Locals, with the help of municipal officers, retrieved the body, awaiting family identification. “The community is working together to manage the impact of this disaster as best they can.” Despite a reduction in rainfall intensity, the water level from the Khao Luang mountain range continues to flow into the municipal areas. According to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, from November 21 to yesterday, December 16, 21 districts have been affected, including Thung Song, Mueang, Chulabhorn, Sichon, Chian Yai, Cha-uat, Chaloem Phra Kiat, Phra Phrom, Phrom Khiri, Pak Phanang, Hua Sai, Ron Phibun, Nopphitam, Phipun, Nabon, Bang Khan, Chawang, Khanom, Tha Sala, Chang Klang, and Lan Saka. Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The flooding has impacted 130 subdistricts, 1,056 villages, and 59 communities, affecting 107,937 households and 311,226 people, with a death toll of four. In upstream areas such as Lan Saka, Phrom Khiri, and Nopphitam districts, continuous heavy rains have caused water masses to flood the region. These waters merged into Phra Phrom, Tha Sala, and the Nakhon Si Thammarat municipality floodplain yesterday, December 16. The water level in the main canals flowing through the Nakhon Si Thammarat municipal area has risen and overflowed into residential areas, making streets impassable. Residents have resorted to walking and using boats for transportation. The Nakhon Si Thammarat municipality has issued warnings since last night, advising people to relocate belongings and evacuate to safety. Schools under the municipal jurisdiction are being used as temporary shelters for the displaced population, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-17

AMLO seizes assets worth 4.5 billion baht in major fraud case by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Thairath The Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) recently took decisive action in a high-profile fraud and money laundering case, seizing assets across 821 items valued at approximately 4.5 billion baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346410-amlo-seizes-assets-worth-45-billion-baht-in-major-fraud-case/

Picture courtesy of Thairath by Bright Choomanee The Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) recently took decisive action in a high-profile fraud and money laundering case, seizing assets across 821 items valued at approximately 4.5 billion baht. The development unfolded as AMLO officials announced the outcomes of their 15th meeting of the year, highlighting significant cases involving fraud and money laundering, some with connections to electronic gambling and drug-related offences. AMLO’s Secretary General, Thepsu Bowornchotdara, along with the Director of the Legal Division, Witya Neetitham, disclosed that the transactions committee had sanctioned the confiscation and freezing of assets related to numerous criminal cases. A total of 234 items, worth around 836 million baht (US$24.5 million), were impounded, notably linked to narcotics, public fraud, and habitual fraud cases, said Thepsu. “The transactions committee approved seizing and freezing assets related to criminal actions, focusing on fraud and money laundering cases.” One of the highlighted cases involves a suspect named Sitra and his associates, accused of habitual fraud and money laundering. Police are convinced that there were attempts to transfer, conceal, or disguise the proceeds of crime. Consequently, the committee decided to seize three assets, including land, buildings, and bank accounts, with a total value of approximately 71 million baht (US$2 million). In another case, a woman named Sureewan and her associates were implicated in public fraud and money laundering. The fraud network reportedly engaged in numerous related offences, prompting the committee to freeze 125 bank account assets valued at about 505 million baht (US$14.8 million). A third case entailed Jian and her group, of Chinese nationality, facing charges of public fraud and money laundering. Initially, 59 assets worth 27 million baht (US$792,393) were seized. Further investigations uncovered additional illicit assets, leading to the seizure of seven more items, including apartments and bank accounts, totalling 78 million baht (US$2.3 million). Asset seizure Duennapa and associates were also under scrutiny for public fraud and money laundering. Previous seizures included 118 assets worth 574 million baht (US$16.8 million). New findings led to the confiscation of four additional properties, valued at approximately 95 million baht (US$2.8 million). Another significant case involved Panuwat and associates, accused of public fraud. The committee ordered the seizure of 22 assets, including land and bank accounts, amounting to around 81 million baht (US$2.37 million). Individuals affected by these asset seizures or those with legitimate claims have 30 days from the notification date to submit written evidence to AMLO’s Secretary-General, proving that the assets are not linked to criminal activities. Additionally, six cases, comprising 119 assets worth around 287 million baht (US$8.4 million), were forwarded to prosecutors to request that the court declare the assets state property. Most assets were connected to drug-related offences and public fraud. A notable case involved The Icon Group Co., Ltd., where 103 assets worth 286 million baht (US$8.3 million) were proposed to become state property, while 40 items worth 29 million baht (US$851,038) were released back to claimants who demonstrated legitimate ownership. The AMLO office has also set a 90-day period, starting from the government Royal Gazette announcement date, for victims to file claims. Following this, AMLO will compile a list of claimants and damage assessments before referring cases to prosecutors to petition the civil court for restitution or compensation to victims based on their losses rather than state appropriation. Habitual fraud Finally, AMLO has forwarded nine cases involving 468 assets valued at approximately 3.428 billion baht (US$100 million) to prosecutors. These cases primarily concern public fraud and habitual fraud. A notable case involves Ratchaya and associates, with 303 assets, including land, vehicles, cash, luxury goods, and bank accounts, worth approximately 70 million baht (US$2 million), being processed for restitution to victims, reported KhaoSod. The case of Chanin and associates, involving STARK shares and public fraud, is pending civil court decisions. AMLO has completed victim protection procedures and submitted the case to prosecutors to seek restitution for over 3,900 victims. This involves 50 assets, including land and bank accounts, totalling around 3.244 billion baht (US$95 million). Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-17

New Thai Police Chief Sets Bold Crime-Fighting Agenda Picture courtesy: MGR Online Thailand's newly appointed National Police Chief, Pol Gen Kittharath Punpetch, has vowed to improve the Royal Thai Police's reputation and tackle crime head-on. Following his unanimous appointment by the Police Commission, the Ratchaburi native has outlined his commitment to upholding law and order, protecting life and property, and enhancing police professionalism. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346408-new-thai-police-chief-sets-bold-crime-fighting-agenda/

Picture courtesy: MGR Online Thailand's newly appointed National Police Chief, Pol Gen Kittharath Punpetch, has vowed to improve the Royal Thai Police's reputation and tackle crime head-on. Following his unanimous appointment by the Police Commission, the Ratchaburi native has outlined his commitment to upholding law and order, protecting life and property, and enhancing police professionalism. Succeeding Pol Gen Torsak Sukvimol, who retired in September, Pol Gen Kittharath has pledged to bring transparency and honesty to his administration. "I will work with honesty and transparency for the happiness of the people. They are my core working policies," he declared in an interview with the Bangkok Post. With a police career that began in 1988 as a deputy inspector in Rayong, Pol Gen Kittharath has risen through the ranks, demonstrating a strong track record in intelligence work and crisis management. His leadership journey was accelerated during his time as the acting national police chief amid internal controversies, earning the trust to take the helm permanently until September 2026. Addressing high-priority issues, Pol Gen Kittharath has identified 15 urgent policy areas. One significant focus is curbing illegal migration and tightening collaboration with the Immigration Bureau and other units like tourist and metropolitan police. Aiming to bolster public confidence, he also plans to introduce "police influencers" to reconsider public reliance on online activists for legal issues, ensuring that the police become the go-to authority for assistance in cases of online scams and other legal matters. Furthermore, Pol Gen Kittharath is reinforcing the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) as a primary contact point for handling complex and international cases. He envisions the CIB working cohesively with other divisions to solidify public trust in the police force. Understanding the pervasive threat of cybercrime, Pol Gen Kittharath plans to enhance the technological proficiency of police personnel. In collaboration with neighbouring countries, he also intends to intensify narcotics suppression efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks using Thailand as a transit point. "If the suppression effort succeeds, narcotics will become far too expensive and will not be sold," he confidently asserted. In a nod to his roots, Pol Gen Kittharath expresses a deep appreciation for non-commissioned officers, who form the backbone of the police force. With personal insight into their roles, he is committed to ensuring their welfare and professional development. Embarking on this challenging role, Pol Gen Kittharath brings a clear mandate and a resolve to foster a transparent, accountable, and professional police organisation. His efforts aim to reconstruct the public's trust, transforming the Royal Thai Police into an institution of integrity and citizen support, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-17

Thai PM Urged to Attend Senate Meetings or Face Potential Censure Picture courtesy: National News BUreau of Thailand In a developing political situation, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been advised by members of the Senate to attend their meetings regularly, as continued absences could lead to a censure debate. The senators have expressed frustration over the PM’s tendency to bypass inquiries by not appearing in person nor delegating a representative from her cabinet to respond on her behalf. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346406-thai-pm-urged-to-attend-senate-meetings-or-face-potential-censure/

Picture courtesy: National News BUreau of Thailand In a developing political situation, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been advised by members of the Senate to attend their meetings regularly, as continued absences could lead to a censure debate. The senators have expressed frustration over the PM’s tendency to bypass inquiries by not appearing in person nor delegating a representative from her cabinet to respond on her behalf. Senator Premsak Piayura, in a press conference alongside colleague Seranee Anilbon, laid bare the growing impatience within the Senate. He pointed out that there were three interpellations slated for discussion that particular day, all necessitating verbal responses, yet the Prime Minister was conspicuously absent. One of the pressing issues awaiting response involves Dr. Boon Vanasin, the erstwhile chairman and founder of Thonburi Healthcare Group. Dr. Boon is currently embroiled in a scandal, facing charges of embezzlement and money laundering, having allegedly defrauded investors of a staggering 20 billion baht (equivalent to approximately 26 billion Thai Baht). Dr. Boon’s flight overseas has added urgency to the matter, with the Senate keen on understanding the government's position and actions regarding his extradition and the safeguarding of affected investments. Senator Premsak signalled that the Senate is considering sending an urgent reminder to the Prime Minister, emphasising her duty to respond to their inquiries. However, the senator also hinted at an alternative approach, suggesting that the Senate might reach out to the “spiritual leader” of the Pheu Thai party for guidance, a thinly veiled reference to former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. In a direct appeal, Premsak urged Prime Minister Paetongtarn to prioritise attending Senate meetings over public appearances focused on promoting her government's accomplishments during its initial months in office. He remarked that such events allow her to deliver speeches and announcements without the challenge of fielding difficult questions, suggesting a preference for controlled environments over open scrutiny. The senators’ call serves as a potent reminder of the political accountability expected from Thailand’s leadership. It highlights the tensions between legislature and executive, emphasising the need for transparency and dialogue at the highest levels of government. As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to see how she responds to this burgeoning issue within her nascent administration, reported Thai PBS. -- 2024-12-17

Thai customs intercept over 300 drug cases so far in December by Ryan Turner Photo via Matichon The Thai Customs Department announced the seizure of heroin, methamphetamine, cannabis, and counterfeit goods at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in a coordinated effort with the Royal Thai Police (RTP), Immigration Bureau, and the Australian Border Force (ABF). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346405-thai-customs-intercept-over-300-drug-cases-so-far-in-december/

Photo via Matichon by Ryan Turner The Thai Customs Department announced the seizure of heroin, methamphetamine, cannabis, and counterfeit goods at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in a coordinated effort with the Royal Thai Police (RTP), Immigration Bureau, and the Australian Border Force (ABF). The announcement was made at a press briefing at the Customs Department headquarters in Bangkok, today, December 16. Yesterday, customs officials intercepted two passengers at Suvarnabhumi Airport who were attempting to smuggle 21.8 kilogrammes of heroin out of the country. The suspects were en route to Ghana and had been under surveillance for some time. The heroin was concealed in their luggage. This operation was part of a joint initiative with the Airport Interdiction Task Force (AITF), involving the RTP, Anti-Narcotics Bureau, Immigration Bureau, and the ABF. The seizure marks another success in combating international drug trafficking. Luggage x-ray | Photo via Matichon Customs officials also uncovered methamphetamine in two separate cases at Suvarnabhumi Airport’s postal centre. The first case on December 8 saw the seizure of two kilogrammes of methamphetamine disguised as coffee and dietary supplements destined for Israel, valued at 600,000 baht. The second instance, a day after, yielded 3.9 kilogrammes of methamphetamine concealed in food packaging destined for Australia, with an estimated value of 1.17 million baht. Both incidents violated Thailand’s Customs Act and narcotics laws. The Customs Department confirmed the methamphetamine was packaged to evade detection but was identified through advanced risk assessment protocols. Luggage search by Thai Customs | Photo via Matichon On December 14, customs officials inspected a shipment labelled as clothing and dry food destined for the UK. Upon inspection, they found 51.3 kilogrammes of cannabis buds hidden in fermented shrimp paste containers, valued at 513,500 baht. Additionally, 240 counterfeit items weighing 182.6 kilogrammes were seized, causing an estimated economic loss of 336,000 baht. The cannabis buds were classified as a controlled herb under Thai law, and the exporter did not possess the required permits, violating the Customs Act and the Ministry of Public Health’s regulations on controlled herbs. From October 1 to December 15, 2023, the Customs Department recorded 57 drug seizures (totalling 109.6 million baht), 204 cannabis seizures (worth 13.8 million baht), and 101 seizures of counterfeit goods (valued at 3.57 million baht). The cumulative total for all seizures reached 362 cases, with an overall value exceeding 127.12 million baht. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-17

Chinese Tourist Numbers to Thailand Expected to Remain Steady FILE photo Thailand anticipates its influx of Chinese tourists to plateau in 2024, with numbers hovering around 7 to 8 million arrivals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346403-chinese-tourist-numbers-to-thailand-expected-to-remain-steady/

FILE photo Thailand anticipates its influx of Chinese tourists to plateau in 2024, with numbers hovering around 7 to 8 million arrivals. This prediction by the Association of Thai Travel Agents (Atta) is attributed to persistent economic issues in China, including the expected economic impacts of upcoming tariff measures from the Trump administration. The president of Atta, Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, voiced caution over meeting the Tourism Authority of Thailand's (TAT) goal of attracting 9 million Chinese visitors by 2025. He cites a mix of global geopolitical tensions and China's internal economic strains as key obstacles to substantial growth. Currently, China represents Thailand’s largest market, contributing roughly 6.3 million arrivals out of a total 32.7 million international visitors as noted by December 8th this year. Despite having a permanent mutual visa exemption, daily arrivals from China remain around 15,000 to 20,000, a figure that suggests yearly totals might fall short of TAT’s 7.3 million target. Contributing to this stagnation are China's economic policies, which have put a damper on their citizens' overseas travel capabilities. Challenges such as domestic tourism initiatives, a real estate downturn, weak consumer spending, and high unemployment among young people have impacted the potential for increased spending on foreign trips. Moreover, there has been a noticeable reduction in government backing for outbound tour companies, contrasting sharply with pre-pandemic levels. While Thailand has witnessed an increase in independent travel from Chinese tourists, the overall spending and economic contribution from this segment remain subdued. Meanwhile, China has been employing fiscal measures and easing monetary policies aimed at countering the forthcoming tariff increases from Donald Trump’s presidency and to uphold their economic growth. Despite this, if tariff hikes materialise, this could further strain Chinese consumers and impact Thailand’s tourism market negatively. Nevertheless, should China manage to sustain a healthy economy with around 5% GDP growth, Thailand may see brighter prospects, particularly as it remains a favoured destination among Chinese travellers. Looking forward to the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Thailand and China in 2025, strategic promotion could leverage this milestone to penetrate newer markets within China. Currently, efforts are hindered by limited support for charter flights and promotion of Thailand’s second-tier cities, which could otherwise open avenues for incremental growth, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-17

Thai Police Officer Suspended for Firing Gun Outside Thonglor Pub Picture courtesy: Workpoint News A Thai police officer has been temporarily suspended after allegedly firing a gun into the air while intoxicated outside a well-known pub in Bangkok's Thonglor district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346402-thai-police-officer-suspended-for-firing-gun-outside-thonglor-pub/

Picture courtesy: Workpoint News A Thai police officer has been temporarily suspended after allegedly firing a gun into the air while intoxicated outside a well-known pub in Bangkok's Thonglor district. On 16th December, Police Major General Witthawat Chinkan, Commander of Metropolitan Police Division 5, issued an order for Sergeant Major Montree Meedet's suspension. The sergeant is accused of gross misconduct and now faces an internal investigation. Montree, an officer responsible for crime prevention in Thonglor, reportedly shot his firearm while drunk. Initial charges against him include possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, carrying a weapon in a public area without permission, and discharging a firearm in a town or community without just cause. The decision to suspend him was made to prevent harm to the police force's reputation and public safety. The suspension is in accordance with police regulations and he remains suspended pending the outcome of the investigation. Sergeant Major Montree retains the right to appeal the decision within 30 days. The incident has raised concerns over police conduct and public confidence in law enforcement in Thailand. Authorities are under pressure to resolve the matter swiftly and impartially, reported Workpoint News. -- 2024-12-17

Myanmar to Pardon Jailed Thai Fishermen After Diplomatic Talks Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a significant diplomatic development, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced that the four Thai fishermen, recently sentenced to lengthy prison terms by Myanmar, are set to receive a pardon. The announcement follows tensions that erupted after a Myanmar navy engagement off the southern coast of Myanmar on November 30, which resulted in the capture and subsequent imprisonment of these seamen. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346388-myanmar-to-pardon-jailed-thai-fishermen-after-diplomatic-talks/

Chinese Nationals Arrested for Working as Real Estate Agents in Pattaya Picture courtesy: Naew Na Authorities arrested five Chinese nationals and one undocumented individual for illegally working as property brokers in Bang Lamung, Chonburi, without proper permits. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346397-chinese-nationals-arrested-for-working-as-real-estate-agents-in-pattaya/

Picture courtesy: Naew Na Authorities arrested five Chinese nationals and one undocumented individual for illegally working as property brokers in Bang Lamung, Chonburi, without proper permits. This action is part of a broader crackdown by the Tourism Police to combat illegal working and living activities by foreigners. On 16 December 2024, under the leadership of Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueakam, officers executed a search warrant at an unnamed real estate office across from The Chill shopping centre on Boon Samphan Road, Nong Prue. The individuals were caught working as brokers, using online platforms to advertise properties to Chinese customers. Investigations revealed that some properties involved had connections to a previously busted call centre gang. The suspects admitted to earning income through sales commissions on these property deals. These individuals face charges under the Foreign Workers Act for working without permits and the Immigration Act for unlawful entry into the kingdom. Initial proceedings are being conducted at Nong Prue Police Station. Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira reiterated the importance of heightened vigilance by all local units to prevent illegal employment of foreigners in key tourist areas, aiming to curb crime and ensure safety in these regions, reported Naew Na. Picture courtesy: Naew Na -- 2024-12-17