webfact

File photo courtesy: Wikimedia Commons A recent survey conducted by NIDA Poll reveals that a significant portion of Bangkok residents oppose the proposed congestion charge for inner-city driving but are more supportive of a new garbage collection fee aimed at promoting waste separation. The survey, conducted between 27th and 29th November by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA), used telephone interviews to collect opinions from 1,310 Bangkokians aged 18 and over, cutting across various educational, income, and occupational backgrounds. The aim was to capture public sentiment regarding the city’s new urban management measures. The Ministry of Transport's proposal to impose a congestion charge of 40-50 Thai Baht on motorists entering central Bangkok aims to fund a fixed 20-baht fare system for all electric rail lines within Greater Bangkok. However, this congestion charge has received a cold reception from the public. Survey results show that nearly half of the respondents, 49.92%, strongly oppose the measure, with 18.24% somewhat disagreeing. Only 17.10% strongly support the initiative, while 13.98% are somewhat in favour. A small fraction, 0.76%, either had no opinion or showed disinterest. When questioned about the anticipated success of the congestion charge, skepticism prevailed. A substantial 55.50% of participants doubted its success entirely, with 28.47% predicting limited success. On the positive side, 12.29% believed it would be somewhat effective, and a mere 2.44% were confident in its success. Contrastingly, there was more enthusiasm for the new garbage collection fee, which becomes effective next June. Under this new system, households producing less than four kilograms of waste per day and practising waste separation will be charged 20 baht monthly. Otherwise, the fee rises to 60 baht. This measure received strong approval from 50.31% of those polled, with an additional 23.66% expressing moderate support. A bloc of respondents, 15.73%, strongly opposed it, and 10.30% showed slight opposition. In terms of cooperative engagement with the new waste fee starting next June, responses were mixed. About 44.81% of residents indicated they would not fully cooperate, whereas 28.93% were moderately willing to comply. Meanwhile, 15.65% expressed no willingness to cooperate at all, and 9.69% reported complete willingness, with a marginal 0.92% undecided or disinterested. This survey highlights the challenges Bangkok faces in implementing new urban policies, with mixed reactions towards their efficacy and acceptance among residents, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-16

Chinese Illegal Workers Earn 2,200 Baht Per Day in Thailand Picture courtesy: Daily News Five Chinese nationals were caught working illegally as labourers in Bangkok, earning an impressive 2,200 THB per day. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346290-chinese-illegal-workers-earn-2200-baht-per-day-in-thailand/

Picture courtesy: Daily News Five Chinese nationals were caught working illegally as labourers in Bangkok, earning an impressive 2,200 THB per day. On 15th December, Pol. Col. Prasopchok Iampinit from Huai Khwang Police Station announced the arrest of five Chinese workers aged between 34 and 61. The arrests were made following a tip-off that led officers to the Hi-Class Building on Ratchadaphisek Road, Din Daeng, where the men were found demolishing a wall as part of renovation work. The group had valid tourist visas but lacked the necessary work permits. Despite their tourist status, they were being paid 450 yuan—or approximately 2,200 THB—per day for their labour. The police charged the men with working without a permit and handed them over to investigators for further legal action. Pol. Col. Iampinit urged the public to report any suspicions of foreigners working illegally, assuring that the police are ready to investigate such matters promptly, reported Daily News. -- 2024-12-16

Picture courtesy: Facebook กลุ่มประชาสัมพันธ์กรมอุตุนิยมวิทยา In a remarkable achievement, Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has been listed among the "100 World's Most Powerful Women 2024" by Forbes Magazine. This recognition marks a significant milestone in her career, reflecting her growing influence not only within Asia but on the global stage. Minister of the Prime Minister's Office, Jiraporn Sindhuprai, announced that Ms Paetongtarn secured the 29th position on the global list and the third spot in Asia. She is preceded by Sandy Ran Xu, CEO of Chinese e-commerce behemoth JD.com, in 27th, and Nirmala Sitharaman, India’s Minister of Finance and Corporate Affairs, in 28th place. The list, a testament to female leadership, includes other prominent figures from Southeast Asia. Among them are Ho Ching, chairwoman of Temasek Trust at 32nd, Sri Mulyani Indrawati, Indonesia’s Minister of Finance at 49th, Helen Wong, Group CEO of OCBC in Singapore at 59th, and Jenny Lee, Senior Managing Partner of Granite Asia in Singapore, who rounds up the list at 96th. Ms Paetongtarn’s influence had previously been acknowledged when Time magazine recognised her in the "Time 100 Next" list under the leaders' category. As Thailand’s 31st prime minister and its youngest at 37, she has made noteworthy strides. "Ms Paetongtarn is the youngest female prime minister in the history of Thailand," noted Ms Jiraporn. Since her assumption of office, Ms Paetongtarn has been commendable in managing domestic challenges, notably handling flood crises and a school bus fire incident. She swiftly coordinated a response, demonstrating effective leadership. She has also been instrumental in advancing policies initiated by her predecessor, former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. These include a three-year debt suspension for farmers, initiatives to bolster tourism with free visas, a ฿10,000 cash handout programme, a marriage equality law, and the 30-baht universal healthcare scheme. Forbes determines its Power List based on four main criteria: money, media, impact, and spheres of influence. Political leaders are evaluated by considering gross domestic products and population sizes, while corporate leaders are gauged by revenue, valuations, and workforce numbers. "Media mentions and social reach were analysed for all," Forbes explains. Collectively, the 100 women on the list wield an astounding $1 trillion (approximately ฿36.5 trillion) in economic power, influencing over 1 billion people worldwide through their policies and actions. Forbes emphasizes that their leadership across various sectors—from finance to technology and media—addresses and defies doubts about women's capacity to wield power effectively, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-16

Swiss Tourist Attacked by Local Youths in Pattaya Picture courtesy: Daily News A 66-year-old Swiss man endured a vicious attack by local youths in Pattaya, leaving him injured and his car severely damaged. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346286-swiss-tourist-attacked-by-local-youths-in-pattaya/

Picture courtesy: Daily News A 66-year-old Swiss man endured a vicious attack by local youths in Pattaya, leaving him injured and his car severely damaged. On the night of 15th December, Manoutcher Kamel Kamai, a Swiss national, reported the disturbing incident to the Pattaya City Police. With visible injuries, including facial swelling and cuts, Mr Kamai drove to the police station in tears seeking justice. According to his statement, relayed through a translation app, the trouble started when he parked his Toyota Veloz SUV on South Pattaya Road after dining nearby. Upon returning to his vehicle, he encountered a group of 4 to 6 teenagers surrounding his car. The youths began smashing the car's windows with rocks. When Mr Kamai attempted to intervene, two of the assailants turned on him, kicking and punching him to the ground. Despite his pleas for mercy, the assault continued until a passerby intervened, prompting the gang to flee. The police, having received Mr Kamai's detailed account, immediately broadcasted alerts to capture the suspects. Meanwhile, investigative teams have been dispatched to review CCTV footage and gather more evidence to track down the perpetrators for further legal action, reported Daily News. -- 2024-12-16

Police arrest loan shark gang at Ministry of Culture by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A dramatic arrest unfolded at the Ministry of Culture when police apprehended members of a loan shark gang accused of charging extortionate interest rates and intimidating debtors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346280-police-arrest-loan-shark-gang-at-ministry-of-culture/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Nattapong Westwood A dramatic arrest unfolded at the Ministry of Culture when police apprehended members of a loan shark gang accused of charging extortionate interest rates and intimidating debtors. The operation, led by Montri Teshakun, targeted 30 year old Veeraphat, and 23 year old Meentada, who were charged with operating an unauthorised personal loan business and lending money at rates exceeding legal limits. The crackdown occurred yesterday, December 14, behind the Wisit Cultural Building in Huai Khwang, Bangkok, following a tip-off about the gang’s operations. Investigations revealed that this group, known as Flash & Fluke, frequently collected illegal loan repayments from food vendors at the ministry’s ground-floor food court. Vendors facing difficulties in making payments reportedly endured public humiliation, threats, and even physical confrontations. Debt collectors for the gang reportedly did not hesitate to assert their dominance even within government premises, showing no fear of law enforcement. On weekends when vendors couldn’t sell their goods, they were aggressively reminded to pay their debts. This audacity was a significant concern as it took place in a governmental area, raising alarms about the gang’s boldness. The gang operated by demanding interest rates of 20% daily, significantly above the legal threshold. Investigations found that the gang strategically collected payments during lunch breaks, arriving on motorcycles and wearing full helmets to avoid detection. Once they secured the payments, they swiftly departed the scene. In their confession, the accused admitted to collecting these exorbitant interest rates on behalf of a financier known only as Gram, whose full identity remains unknown. They explained that they were responsible for recruiting clients and collecting installments, receiving a percentage of the interest as a commission. The gang had a structured operation, with different members assigned to specific routes to avoid overlap. Their unit, Sap Lakkachai 5, was led by a figure named Toey, who was responsible for increasing client numbers, while Tum acted as an advisor overseeing the operations, reported KhaoSod. “We were just collecting for our financier, Gram, who charges 20% interest daily. Our job was to find clients and collect payments, and we received a share of the interest,” one of the suspects confessed. Police are conducting further investigations to dismantle the network and identify other members involved in this illegal operation. The suspects have been handed over to the Huai Khwang Police Station for legal proceedings. -- 2024-12-16

Landslide Buries Workers’ Camp on Koh Samui, Two Missing In the early hours of the morning, of December 15, a landslide struck a workers’ camp in Koh Samui, leaving two individuals missing. The incident occurred at 04:00 in the construction area located on a hillside in Soi Hima Thong, Moo 1, Maret Subdistrict, Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346256-landslide-buries-workers’-camp-on-koh-samui-two-missing/

Thaksin Accuses Absent Cabinet Members of Disloyalty, Demands Resignations File photo courtesy: Facebook sorrayuth9115 Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai Party, has strongly criticized members of the coalition government in the administration led by his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, for their failure to attend a recent cabinet meeting. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346249-thaksin-accuses-absent-cabinet-members-of-disloyalty-demands-resignations/

Thai-British Beauty Queen Duped Out of 4M Baht, Suspect Arrested Picture courtesy: MGR online Thai authorities have arrested a 40-year-old woman believed to be part of a scam operation that duped Thai-British beauty queen Charlotte Austin out of 4 million Thai Baht. The suspect, known only as Parichat, was apprehended in Chaiyaphum province over the weekend. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346275-thai-british-beauty-queen-duped-out-of-4m-baht-suspect-arrested/

Thaksin Denies Role in Anti-Coup Legislation Moves FILE photo courtesy: Facebook Pheu Thai In a fresh wave of political speculation, Thaksin Shinawatra, often regarded as the de facto leader of Thailand's Pheu Thai Party, has firmly denied orchestrating any legislative push aimed at curbing military influence or precluding future coups. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346250-thaksin-denies-role-in-anti-coup-legislation-moves/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 16 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1346262-thailand-live-monday-16-december-2024/

FILE photo courtesy: Facebook Pheu Thai In a fresh wave of political speculation, Thaksin Shinawatra, often regarded as the de facto leader of Thailand's Pheu Thai Party, has firmly denied orchestrating any legislative push aimed at curbing military influence or precluding future coups. Speaking against recent narratives, Thaksin clarified that he and his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, are personally dismayed by suggestions that he was behind such moves. Thaksin's refutation comes amidst rumours suggesting he instructed party members to propose legislation that would effectively tether military leadership to the whims of the elected government. However, sources within the party revealed this weekend that Thaksin has assured his followers that no such directive came from him. Instead, he has instructed Pheu Thai MP Prayut Siripanich, who was advocating for the bill, to stall its progression indefinitely, keeping it off the parliamentary agenda. Thaksin, himself a victim of a coup in 2006, expressed his astonishment at being linked to the controversial legal draft. This proposed legislation reportedly advocates for military personnel to refuse orders from superiors contemplating undemocratic overthrows, offering them immunity from disciplinary or criminal repercussions. The draft also purportedly aims to reassign control of the Defence Council, suggesting an elected prime minister should serve as chair, replacing the traditional role of the Defence Minister. Furthermore, it would grant the civilian cabinet the authority to sanction annual military promotions, potentially curbing arbitrary power consolidations through nepotistic practices among army generals, navy admirals, and air marshals. While the idea of such legislative measures might appear progressive to some, the implications of these reports have unfurled new political tension as they suggest a drive to alter the military's long-standing autonomy. Thaksin's categorical denial and the shelving of the bill underscore the delicate balance between Thailand's civilian government and its powerful military. As rumours swirl and political manoeuvrings persist, one thing remains clear: Thaksin's influence, even from behind the scenes, continues to stir significant interest and reaction across the political spectrum. His latest statements might pacify concerns about direct legislative intervention, but the dialogue about military oversight remains a potent subject in Thai political discourse, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-12-16

FILE photo courtesy: Wikipedia Hua Hin Airport set to join the ranks of international airports next year In an ambitious expansion move, Thailand's Hua Hin Airport is set to join the ranks of international airports next year, marking a significant step in boosting regional connectivity and tourism. The Transport Ministry has laid out a transformative plan to elevate Hua Hin's status, aiming to facilitate both domestic and international travel seamlessly. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346261-hua-hin-airport-set-to-join-the-ranks-of-international-airports-next-year/

Picture courtesy: MGR online Thai authorities have arrested a 40-year-old woman believed to be part of a scam operation that duped Thai-British beauty queen Charlotte Austin out of 4 million Thai Baht. The suspect, known only as Parichat, was apprehended in Chaiyaphum province over the weekend. Pol Lt Gen Trairong Phewphan, acting commissioner of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, detailed that Parichat was involved in a scam run by a group based in Cambodia. The suspect and her husband allegedly travelled illegally from Sa Kaeo province into Cambodia, where Parichat was coerced into opening a bank account for a Chinese-led scam operation. Once in Cambodia, Parichat was taken to a building where the scam was being orchestrated. Here, she was paid a nominal fee of 3,500 Thai Baht to open a bank account, using her identity, for the gang. This building housed roughly 20 Thais, and within its walls were mock offices posing as legitimate Thai authorities. Lt Gen Trairong revealed that the beauty queen’s funds were first transferred into Parichat's account, subsequently converted into digital currency, and then moved to an account linked to a Chinese suspect. The investigation continues as authorities work to dismantle the broader network involved. This alarming scheme unraveled after Charlotte Austin, the 5th runner-up in Miss Grand Thailand 2022, was deceived by a call on December 7th. The caller posed as an official from Thailand's Department of Special Investigation, falsely implicating her in a money laundering case associated with Stark Corporation. In a state of fear and confusion, Austin was instructed to transfer 4 million Baht under the pretence that this would absolve her from suspicion. She made a series of transactions totalling the amount but, as anticipated by the perpetrators, never saw her money returned. Austin's ordeal has thrown a spotlight on the increasingly sophisticated methods employed by scammers and the cross-border challenges faced by law enforcement in tackling these crimes. The arrest of Parichat marks a significant step forward, but the ongoing investigation underscores the complexity of dismantling such operations and bringing all responsible parties to justice, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-16

File photo courtesy: Facebook sorrayuth9115 Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai Party, has strongly criticized members of the coalition government in the administration led by his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, for their failure to attend a recent cabinet meeting. He specifically pointed to the absence of certain cabinet members during a session focused on reviewing international tax measures, calling on them to resign. Speaking about the December 11 meeting, Thaksin highlighted that several members from the coalition parties were missing, with some citing illness as the reason for their absence. "This clearly demonstrates that they are not aligned with us. If they no longer wish to remain part of the government, they should inform us. We would understand. But if they choose to abandon the government again in the future, they should submit their resignation letters," Thaksin remarked. Thaksin, known for his straightforward approach, expressed frustration with those he believes are acting behind the scenes. He emphasized the importance of loyalty and commitment. "If they want to stay, they need to fight alongside us," he said. "This is the government's policy, and they should support it. Once they are appointed to cabinet positions, they can't just walk away whenever it suits them." While Thaksin refrained from naming the absentees directly, sources suggest the missing ministers included notable figures such as Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, and Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, leader of the United Thai Nation Party. During the event, Thaksin humorously downplayed his political role, describing himself as having no official position. He joked that he was simply an "assistant to an MP" and a senior citizen receiving a modest 600 baht monthly state pension. Thaksin’s remarks came during a seminar organized by Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Pheu Thai MPs in Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan, reported Thai PBS. -- 2024-12-16

FILE photo courtesy: Wikipedia In an ambitious expansion move, Thailand's Hua Hin Airport is set to join the ranks of international airports next year, marking a significant step in boosting regional connectivity and tourism. The Transport Ministry has laid out a transformative plan to elevate Hua Hin's status, aiming to facilitate both domestic and international travel seamlessly. Transport Deputy Minister Manaporn Charoensri announced that the Department of Airports, alongside Aeronautical Radio of Thailand and other key agencies, is pressing ahead with efforts to obtain the necessary certification that will grant Hua Hin international airport status. This change is driven by a steady rise in passenger numbers, underscoring the need for expanded and efficient operations. The development is poised to have a profound impact, not only by increasing the frequency and diversity of flights but also by energizing the local economy, particularly benefiting the tourism sector. The move is a strategic push to make Hua Hin a more accessible destination, fostering growth and opportunities. Danai Ruangsorn, the director-general of the Department of Airports, outlined two significant projects within the development plan. The first involves extending and widening the runway to meet international standards, accommodating larger aircraft. This expansion, pegged at 239 million Thai Baht, has been completed and is currently undergoing inspection by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). The second project focuses on enhancing the road tunnel, runway strip, and runway-end safety areas, requiring an investment of around 300 million Thai Baht. Currently under review by the Budget Bureau, plans are in place to commence construction in January, with completion expected by April 2026. Presently, Hua Hin Airport can accommodate aircraft such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320, seating approximately 180 passengers. Its passenger terminal is set for expansion and can currently support 300 passengers per hour, or around 860,000 annually. Thai AirAsia provides domestic services with the Chiang Mai–Hua Hin route operating multiple days a week, offering much-needed connectivity within the country. With the upcoming upgrade, Hua Hin aims to broaden its horizons, welcoming a new era of international travel and economic vitality. As the plans unfold, stakeholders and residents alike anticipate the benefits this upgrade will bring, promising to place Hua Hin firmly on the map as a key player in Thailand's aviation landscape, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-16

Hong Kong master’s student duped into Thai nightmare by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Jelly Tse via SCMP A Hong Kong master’s student was swept into an international scam that cost her over HK$500,000 (approximately 2.2 million baht) and led her to an alarming detour to Thailand. This unprecedented case pushed Hong Kong police to seek Interpol’s help, marking the first time a victim was lured overseas. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346194-hong-kong-master’s-student-duped-into-thai-nightmare/

Photo courtesy of Jelly Tse via SCMP by Puntid Tantivangphaisal A Hong Kong master’s student was swept into an international scam that cost her over HK$500,000 (approximately 2.2 million baht) and led her to an alarming detour to Thailand. This unprecedented case pushed Hong Kong police to seek Interpol’s help, marking the first time a victim was lured overseas. The victim, identified as K, a 22 year old student from Yunnan, China, recounted how scammers impersonated mainland Chinese and Hong Kong officials, accusing her of money laundering. “The sham public security official and I talked on the phone for eight hours, leaving no room for me to think,” she revealed, recalling how the fraudsters even wore official uniforms during video calls. Believing her bank accounts were frozen and fearing worse repercussions, K travelled to Guangzhou to pay 500,000 yuan in “caution money.” The scammers then instructed her to flee to Thailand for safety. The nightmare deepened when the fraudsters contacted K’s parents, claiming she had been kidnapped in Bangkok. They demanded a ransom of 10 million yuan (46.9 million baht), prompting her parents to alert Hong Kong police. In a high-stakes operation, Hong Kong police worked with Interpol, Thai police, and the Chinese embassy to locate K, who had been instructed to move between hotels in Bangkok. She was found three days later, shaken but safe, reported South China Morning Post. Superintendent Theodora Lee of Hong Kong’s Anti-Deception Coordination Centre warned, “Law enforcement officials will never demand bank transfers or tell you to cut off contact with your family. These are classic scam tactics.” This case highlights a sharp rise in university student scams, with losses in 2024 already exceeding HK$1.42 billion, more than double the previous year. As students navigate new cities and academic pressures, scammers exploit their vulnerabilities. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-14 x

UN urges Thailand to decriminalise sex work for healthcare access by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod The United Nations (UN) has recommended that Thailand should decriminalise sex work to ensure equal access to healthcare services and integrate victim support. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346193-un-urges-thailand-to-decriminalise-sex-work-for-healthcare-access/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal The United Nations (UN) has recommended that Thailand should decriminalise sex work to ensure equal access to healthcare services and integrate victim support. This announcement was made during a press conference at the Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel, where the Working Group on Discrimination Against Women and Girls discussed the state of women’s and girls’ rights in Thailand. This marks the UN’s first visit to Thailand following an invitation from the government. Heina Lou and Ivana Krstic, representatives of the working group, assessed the progress and challenges in achieving gender equality and eliminating discrimination during their visit. Their discussions covered various aspects of the lives of women and girls, particularly those facing intersecting forms of discrimination. Meetings were held in Bangkok, Mae Sot, Chiang Mai, and Hat Yai, indicating a broad geographical engagement. The report highlighted that Thailand is at a pivotal moment to become a regional exemplar for gender equality. The UN praised advancements in women’s and girls’ rights, noting improvements in legal and institutional frameworks, especially in education, healthcare, and employment. However, concerns remain about significant policy enforcement gaps that impede achieving equality. The UN suggested that national mechanisms for women’s issues should receive financial and personnel support, with gender-sensitive budgeting being a constitutional commitment. Krstic pointed out that technology contributes to sexual violence through cyberbullying and the harmful dissemination of personal information. “We see technology as a part of the issue, leading to cyberbullying and harmful data exposure. It’s a challenge for the government to prevent harassment and exploitation of women.” The recommendation to decriminalise sex work stems from a desire for fair healthcare access and victim integration. Despite this, practical obstacles such as inadequate staffing at support centres hinder equal access to essential services, reported KhaoSod. The UN’s call for decriminalisation is intended to remove barriers for sex workers in accessing health services without fear of legal repercussions. This approach would also necessitate a holistic support system for victims, promoting equal service access. The move aligns with global shifts towards recognising sex work as legitimate and prioritising workers’ rights and well-being. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-14

Thaksin Announces New Anti-Drug Task Force Led by PM Paetongtarn Picture courtesy: Sanook In a significant move to combat Thailand's continuing drug challenges, a new task force is being established under the leadership of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346191-thaksin-announces-new-anti-drug-task-force-led-by-pm paetongtarn/

Picture courtesy: Sanook In a significant move to combat Thailand's continuing drug challenges, a new task force is being established under the leadership of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. This was announced by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra during a Pheu Thai Party meeting, which took place on a journey to Hua Hin in Prachuap Khiri Khan. The seminar aimed to bolster the party's strategies and enhance leadership effectiveness. Thaksin, whose previous tenure was marked by assertive drug policies, shared that his daughter, Ms Paetongtarn, would spearhead the task force, underscoring the Shinawatra family's enduring political presence. Speaking at the seminar, he addressed essential issues, noting that some of his past initiatives, such as affordable housing, remain crucial. This task force comes in response to escalating concerns over drug-related issues, which Thaksin remarked are more severe now than during his premiership. Reflecting on past measures, he recalled his administration's vigorous anti-drug campaigns, suggesting a warning to current drug dealers about renewed governmental pressures. The collaborative effort will include Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who will work alongside police and provincial entities to intensify drug suppression. Thaksin implied that failure to meet objectives could lead to the reassignment of officials, highlighting the gravity of their mission. During the early 2000s, Thaksin's government took a hard-line approach from February 1, 2003, with extensive drug crackdowns resulting in over 43,000 arrests. This period also drew criticism for human rights concerns; notably, around 2,500 people were reportedly killed across these campaigns, with many deaths suspected to involve government forces. Provinces like Chiang Mai and Khon Kaen saw substantial success in limiting drug activities, driven by coordinated efforts between government and local levels. Despite widespread criticism from human rights advocates over the high number of deaths attributed to state actions, Thaksin stands firm on the necessity of robust enforcement to achieve public safety and order. As this renewed anti-drug initiative under the Pheu Thai leadership gains momentum, it remains to be seen how the policies will be executed and whether they will balance efficacy with respect for human rights, given the dynamic socio-political environment in Thailand, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-14

Picture courtesy: Daily News A British national finds himself in hot water after being caught on CCTV snatching jewellery from two unsuspecting tourists in Pattaya. The 31-year-old, identified only as Jordan and easily recognised due to his muscular build and distinctive tattoos, was apprehended by local authorities. According to the Pattaya City Police, Jordan was involved in two separate thefts targeting foreign tourists. The first incident took place on the night of December 8th along Soi Buakhao, where an Iranian tourist fell victim to Jordan’s sudden attack. Not long after, he struck again, this time stealing a gold necklace valued at over 200,000 Thai Baht from an Indian tourist near Soi Yen Sabai in the Nong Prue district. Police Lieutenant Colonel Thananon Athipansee, from the Pattaya City Police Station, led the investigative team in collaboration with the Crime Suppression Division and the Immigration Police in Chonburi. Their efforts culminated in Jordan’s arrest on December 13th at his residence in Bang Saray, Sattahip. The incidents were clearly captured on CCTV. Footage revealed Jordan riding a motorcycle with an accomplice, both attempting to obscure their identities with face masks. The Iranian tourist, enjoying a casual evening stroll, was caught off guard when Jordan abruptly jumped off the motorcycle, snatched his necklace, and sped off with his partner waiting on the bike. Similarly, during the second theft, the duo was seen tailing an Indian tourist, Mr. Merlin, and his friend before executing the skilful snatch near Soi Yen Sabai. Once more, the CCTV provided a clear visual record of the crime. Picture courtesy: Daily News Upon his arrest, Jordan declined to make any statement, choosing instead to remain silent. Yet, the police are confident about the strength of their case, with the CCTV footage and clothing evidence supporting the charges against him. He now faces charges of robbery at night with the use of a vehicle, which carry penalties of up to five years in prison, a fine of 100,000 Thai Baht, or both. Authorities are also actively pursuing Jordan’s accomplice, who remains at large. Their investigation continues as they piece together more evidence and possibly prevent any future crimes by this duo, reported Daily News. -- 2024-12-14