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British Man Arrested for Jewellery Theft from Tourists in Pattaya 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. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346172-british-man-arrested-for-jewellery-theft-from-tourists-in-pattaya/

Pattaya Intensifies Anti-Drugs Crackdown in Night Clubs FILE photo courtesy: MGR Online Pattaya is witnessing a robust crackdown on drug-related activities in its nightlife sector, as part of Thailand's national initiative to regulate entertainment venues comprehensively. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346179-pattaya-intensifies-anti-drugs-crackdown-in-night-clubs/

FILE photo courtesy: MGR Online Pattaya is witnessing a robust crackdown on drug-related activities in its nightlife sector, as part of Thailand's national initiative to regulate entertainment venues comprehensively. This intensified operation, aligning with the “5-Free” policy, seeks to ensure that entertainment spots are free of drugs, weapons, child exploitation, prostitution, and remain safe environments for all. Spearheaded by Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, the campaign has seen numerous high-profile raids supervised by top officials. Among notable incidents, a Pattaya club was shut down after over 200 patrons tested positive for drugs, using a urine test that revealed substances like ketamine and methamphetamines, reported Barry Kenyon for Pattaya Mail. While the campaign is national, Pattaya stands as a focal point, having experienced over 20 raids on its licensed premises. These operations have often been triggered by tips from "concerned citizens", a term that includes business rivals as well as genuine community members opposed to illegal activities. The 2024 crackdown distinguishes itself by the diversity and cooperation of involved agencies, featuring local and provincial police, immigration units, the anti-trafficking police, and the Central Investigation Bureau. Civilian departments like the Department of Employment and the Department of Provincial Administration, which governs club licensing, are also deeply involved. This multi-agency strategy is unprecedented and aims to enhance Pattaya's image as a clean, tourist-friendly destination. From the 1,500 individuals arrested in these raids, the majority were Thai nationals, though around 300 were foreigners, including Westerners who were found to have used drugs. Some arrests were linked to working without permits, primarily involving staff from neighbouring countries. Offences also included operating past allowed hours, firearms possession, online gambling, and failure to secure music licences. For Westerners ensnared in these raids, outcomes vary. Typically, those testing positive for drugs are processed by police and released after fines are paid, with their details recorded to restrict further entry into Thailand for periods ranging from a few years to a lifetime, based on the gravity of the offence. More severe charges, like managing illegal establishments or drug dealing, result in court proceedings and travel restrictions until a verdict is reached—a process that can span several months. Though raids on nightspots in Pattaya are not new—tracing back to the 1960s following the Entertainment Venue Act—this latest initiative marks a significant expansion in scope and interagency collaboration across Thailand. As the festive season approaches, while many revel in the new year, it's clear that those partying in Pattaya’s clubs have stricter regulations to navigate, reported Pattaya Mail. -- 2024-12-14

Thaksin joins daughter Paetongtarn on Pheu Thai train to Hua Hin By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation In a scene worthy of a political drama, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made a grand entrance as he joined his daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, on a luxury train journey to Hua Hin. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346134-thaksin-joins-daughter-paetongtarn-on-pheu-thai-train-to-hua-hin/

Phuket noise dispute turns violent with two injured in gunfire By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Phuket City Police A noise complaint at a rental property in Phuket Town erupted into violence, resulting in injuries to both the landlord and tenant after a gun was discharged during a scuffle. The incident unfolded yesterday, December 12, drawing attention to the ongoing tensions between the two parties. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346152-phuket-noise-dispute-turns-violent-with-two-injured-in-gunfire/

Crackdown on Sukhumvit Beggars Reveals Hidden Wealth File photo for reference only In an effort to improve the image of Thailand, police, alongside officials from the Immigration Bureau and the Homeless People Protection Centre, conducted a crackdown in Bangkok's Sukhumvit area, rounding up 12 beggars. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346154-crackdown-on-sukhumvit-beggars-reveals-hidden-wealth/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 14 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1346149-thailand-live-saturday-14-december-2024/

Photo via Channel 7 Thai teacher accused of striking boy’s penis with steel ruler By Petch Petpailin A Thai mother exposed the cruel behaviour of a teacher in the central province of Prachin Buri who allegedly struck her three year old son’s penis with a steel ruler causing severe injury. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346133-thai-teacher-accused-of-striking-boy’s-penis-with-steel-ruler/

Thailand to Implement 15% Tax on Global Firms by 2025 FILE photo courtesy: Sanook In a move poised to reshape its economic landscape, Thailand will impose a minimum corporate tax rate of 15% on large international companies starting in 2025. This announcement, made by Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, marks a significant step for Southeast Asia's second-largest economy as it aligns its tax practices with international standards. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346140-thailand-to-implement-15-tax-on-global-firms-by-2025/

FILE photo courtesy: Sanook In a move poised to reshape its economic landscape, Thailand will impose a minimum corporate tax rate of 15% on large international companies starting in 2025. This announcement, made by Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, marks a significant step for Southeast Asia's second-largest economy as it aligns its tax practices with international standards. The Thai Cabinet recently approved legislation to facilitate this tax implementation, bringing it one step closer to publication in the Royal Gazette, where it will subsequently become law. The government sees this development as a key component of its efforts to secure membership in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) within the next few years. Traditionally, Thailand's corporate income tax stands at 20%. However, to attract foreign investment, the nation has offered various tax exemptions and reduced rates for select investment projects. This strategy has been under scrutiny, given international companies often pay taxes in their home countries if exemptions apply when operating in Thailand. “Even if they enjoy exemptions or a mere 5% rate here, these companies will still account for taxes back home,” Mr Pichai explained. “Therefore, we're aligning our practices with international norms, but we also plan to return a portion of this tax to them.” To sweeten the deal, the Thai government has introduced measures to mitigate the tax burden for foreign enterprises. These incentives include tax relief for companies that engage in specific activities such as relocating research and development departments to Thailand, enhancing their eco-friendly practices, or providing skill-building opportunities for local employees. The Finance Minister elaborated, “By encouraging these practices, we're not just collecting taxes but fostering sustainable growth. We aim to create a more dynamic and competitive market that benefits both the economy and the environment.” In practical terms, this means that global companies could negotiate some financial relief if they contribute to Thailand's aspirations for economic sustainability and local talent development. These measures not only align with Thailand's economic goals but also enhance its attractiveness as a business destination, a factor crucial for maintaining foreign direct investment. As Thailand prepares for this new tax regime, its impact will resonate across the international business community. By aligning with global tax standards, the nation is striving to bolster its credibility and economic viability on the world stage, making it an intriguing space for both current and prospective investors. With the proposed reforms nearing finalisation, stakeholders worldwide will be keenly observing how Thailand balances its ambitions for international integration with the practicalities of domestic economic growth. For Thailand, 2025 marks not just a new tax policy but a step towards greater global economic engagement, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-13

Thai loan shark mastermind arrested in Kamphaeng Phet sting by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Thai police apprehended a woman known as Add, who is reputed to be the mastermind behind a notorious loan shark operation in Kamphaeng Phet. The investigation revealed that she was involved in a pawn scheme involving vehicles, charging exorbitant interest rates. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346086-thai-loan-shark-mastermind-arrested-in-kamphaeng-phet-sting/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Bright Choomanee Thai police apprehended a woman known as Add, who is reputed to be the mastermind behind a notorious loan shark operation in Kamphaeng Phet. The investigation revealed that she was involved in a pawn scheme involving vehicles, charging exorbitant interest rates. Borrowers received significantly less money than initially promised and faced threats when they struggled to meet the high-interest payments. Police Lieutenant General Trairong Phiwphan ordered the operation, leading to the arrest of 50 year old Supatra. Her arrest stemmed from a complaint lodged by a victim with the Cyber Police Division 2. The victim had borrowed 30,000 baht (US$882) from Supatra nearly five months ago, using a pickup truck as collateral. Despite the loan amount, the victim only received 25,000 baht (US$735) after various deductions, including parking fees and initial interest. The agreed interest rate was a staggering 10% per month, or 120% annually, far exceeding the legal limit of 15% per year, with the principal to be returned within 30 days. Victims reported that delays in payment led to threats of selling their vehicles, physical harm, and public embarrassment. Despite these threats, borrowers felt compelled to endure due to their initial agreement to pawn their vehicles. The situation escalated when the victim attempted to repay the principal and interest to reclaim their vehicle, only to find Supatra uncooperative. Instead of returning the vehicle, she feigned ignorance, prompting the victim to seek assistance from the cyber police. The Cyber Police Division 2 gathered evidence to investigate the loan shark’s activities further. Subsequent police investigations revealed that Supatra operated her illicit business under the guise of a restaurant. Behind the restaurant, a warehouse served as a storage area for pawned vehicles. Upon questioning, Supatra admitted to her involvement in the loan shark scheme and led the police to inspect the warehouse. Inside, police discovered a variety of vehicles, including pickup trucks, sedans, SUVs, motorcycles, and even agricultural vehicles, totalling around 20 vehicles. Supatra was charged with conducting a personal lending business without the appropriate authorisation from the Ministry of Finance, disguising her operations as a pawnshop. This included charging interest rates beyond the legal threshold, reported KhaoSod. Police have taken Supatra into custody, transferring her to the Kamphaeng Phet Police Station for legal proceedings. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-13

Portuguese man missing in Koh Pha Ngan, wife fears suicide by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Hotnews The wife of a Portuguese man, missing from his home in Koh Pha Ngan since November 17, fears he may have taken his own life. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346081-portuguese-man-missing-in-koh-pha-ngan-wife-fears-suicide/

Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Hotnews by Petch Petpailin The wife of a Portuguese man, missing from his home in Koh Pha Ngan since November 17, fears he may have taken his own life. The 38 year old half-Thai, half-American woman, Avalon Oneita Juliana, sought help from local police and the Portuguese Embassy in Thailand after her husband, 51 year old Daniel Joao D’Costa Ferreira Dos Santos, disappeared. Santos reportedly left their shared home on Koh Pha Ngan on November 17 and never returned. His passport, luggage, and other belongings were later found in the car park of a construction materials store named Limpipong on the island. Juliana informed officials that her husband had been suffering from mental illness and alcoholism. She expressed concerns that Santos might take his own life due to his struggles with mental health. Officers from Koh Pha Ngan Police Station launched an investigation and spoke to a Thai man, Kraichok, who claimed to have encountered Santos. Kraichok told police he had seen Santos sunbathing on Chalok Lam Beach. Santos was reportedly only wearing shorts and no shirt. After sunbathing, he was seen walking towards the main road of the island. Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Hotnews Another foreigner, who was part of the same addiction recovery group Santos attended, informed police he had seen Santos walking in the direction of Tong Sala Community, on the opposite side of the island, approximately 10 kilometres from Chalok Lam Beach. Later that same day, Kraichok reported seeing Santos again at a public park near the Pha Ngan Royal Navy Ship Museum. Since then, no one has seen or heard from Santos. Police circulated news of his disappearance to both locals and foreigners on the island and distributed missing person posters. Officers also requested assistance from the Phuket Tourist Police in spreading the posters in the hopes of locating Santos soon. In a related incident last year, a New Zealand tourist, 56 year old Shaw Mace Bushel, went missing from his resort on Koh Pha Ngan at about 4am on 2 March. His friend, unable to find any trace of him, sought help from the Thai police. Officers discovered Bushel’s motorcycle near Khom Beach, leading them to search the area. They eventually located him, but Bushel, stressed and paranoid, attempted to evade the officials. Police managed to stop him and ensured his safe rescue. Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Hotnews Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-13

PM Paetongtarn’s absence sparks debate over invasive fish issue by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Apichart Jinakul via Bangkok Post Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s decision to skip the opening of the new House of Representatives session yesterday, December 12, sparked a contentious debate between the opposition and the ruling Pheu Thai Party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346080-pm-paetongtarn’s-absence-sparks-debate-over-invasive-fish-issue/

Photo courtesy of Apichart Jinakul via Bangkok Post by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s decision to skip the opening of the new House of Representatives session yesterday, December 12, sparked a contentious debate between the opposition and the ruling Pheu Thai Party. Nattacha Boonchaiinsawat, a Bangkok representative from the opposition People’s Party (PP), voiced his frustration, expressing a desire for the prime minister to address the public on efforts to curb the spread of the invasive blackchin tilapia fish. This species of fish has reportedly infiltrated numerous waterways, contradicting the government’s claims of improvement. Nattacha emphasised the gravity of the situation, noting that it necessitated direct attention from the prime minister due to its impact on various ministries. Instead of attending the parliamentary session, PM Paetongtarn delivered a nationwide televised address from the National Broadcasting Services of Thailand, discussing her government’s performance and policy initiatives. She had previously indicated that attending yesterday’s session was not feasible. In her absence, Agriculture Minister Narumon Pinyosinwat was delegated to attend the session but she also did not make an appearance, citing other commitments. This absence prompted Nattacha to express his disappointment. “I intended to use the first day of the Parliament session to ask questions of the highest leader in the government, the prime minister. “The prime minister said she wanted to answer questions in Parliament. However, today was not appropriate. I have to ask what kind of person she is to say that the first day of work is inappropriate for work?” The PP MP further criticised the prime minister’s response to pressing issues. “The suffering of our fellow citizens awaits solutions, and the people’s representatives want to use the mechanisms of the Parliament to perform their duties. You just answered something as simple as this by saying ‘I was busy.'” Toetchat Chaipong, a Pheu Thai MP representing Chiang Rai, countered the criticism by reminding Nattacha that he couldn’t criticise the prime minister so bluntly. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat, speaking on behalf of the government, clarified that initially, there was no parliamentary meeting scheduled for yesterday. The session was initially planned for next week, but the timetable was adjusted at the last minute. Meanwhile, the 38 year old Thai premier is set to leave Bangkok today to attend a Pheu Thai Party meeting in Hua Hin for two days. She is expected to arrive in the resort town this morning, travelling by train along with 400 party members and officials, reported Bangkok Post. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-13

Watch closely: Thaksin Shinawatra's potential political return Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Former MP Theptai Senapong has voiced concerns about Thaksin Shinawatra's possible return to power. Posting on his social media platform, Theptai highlighted Thaksin's recent statements in Ubon Ratchathani, where Thaksin urged people to support the Pheu Thai Party. He promised a revival of happiness and prosperity through new policies. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346079-watch-closely-thaksin-shinawatras-potential-political-return/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Former MP Theptai Senapong has voiced concerns about Thaksin Shinawatra's possible return to power. Posting on his social media platform, Theptai highlighted Thaksin's recent statements in Ubon Ratchathani, where Thaksin urged people to support the Pheu Thai Party. He promised a revival of happiness and prosperity through new policies. Thaksin, now 75, hinted at a continued role, stating, "I have money, time, and strength. I will still serve the Thai people without holding a position." This, according to Theptai, underscores Thaksin's ambition to once again influence the country's governance. Theptai suggests that Thaksin realises his daughter, Paetongtarn, might struggle to lead effectively due to her lack of experience, despite his guidance. Contrary to his previous claims of stepping away from politics to care for his grandchildren, Thaksin appears to be steering political decisions and maintaining influence within the Pheu Thai Party. Theptai Senapong. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Theptai's remarks imply that Thaksin intends to address Thailand's current issues, positioning himself as the necessary figure to lead the country through its challenges. Observers are now speculating whether Thaksin will manoeuvre his way back to the premiership, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-12-13

Thai Salaries to Rise by 5% in 2025 Amid Competitive Job Market Picture courtesy: MGR online The average salary in Thailand is expected to increase by 5% in 2025, maintaining the growth rate of the current year. This insight comes from Mercer, a leading human resources consultancy known for its comprehensive surveys of employment trends. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346075-thai-salaries-to-rise-by-5-in-2025-amid-competitive-job-market/

Picture courtesy; MGR online The average salary in Thailand is expected to increase by 5% in 2025, maintaining the growth rate of the current year. This insight comes from Mercer, a leading human resources consultancy known for its comprehensive surveys of employment trends. This anticipated salary hike highlights the enduring commitment to workforce investment amid a competitive labour market. Mercer’s Total Remuneration Survey 2024, which forms the basis of this prediction, analysed pay trends and compensation policies across more than 700 companies and over 5,000 roles in Thailand. Notably, the survey found that all the companies participating in the analysis plan to implement salary increases next year, compared to 99.8% in the current year. This indicates a universal resolve to secure salary growth as a means to attract and retain talent. The survey identified several factors contributing to the impending pay increases, including individual employee performance, overall organisational performance, and competitive pressures in the job market. Furthermore, the analysis underscores a significant shift towards incorporating incentives as an integral part of compensation packages, marking a nuanced approach to employee remuneration. Within specific industries, the life sciences sector emerges as the highest-paying, offering salaries that stand 20% above the national average. The automotive sector takes the lead in short-term incentives, with these bonuses comprising 23% of the total remuneration, a contrast to the consumer goods sector where base salaries constitute 75% of the overall pay package. Despite a global trend favouring the adoption of flexible benefit schemes, such initiatives remain relatively rare in Thailand, with only a minority of companies implementing them. This indicates a potential area for growth in how Thai companies could enhance their compensation frameworks. Significantly, 91% of the organisations surveyed already have short-term incentive plans, such as bonuses in place. Meanwhile, long-term incentives like stock options have seen a slight rise in popularity, with an increase from 78.9% in 2023 to 80.7% in 2024, reflecting a slow but steady acceptance of these retention strategies. Thira Laulathaphol, career principal at Mercer Thailand, commented on the findings, emphasizing the ongoing focus on workforce investment. "The average salary increase of 5% in 2025 reflects an ongoing commitment by Thai organisations to invest in their workforces. With every surveyed company planning raises, it’s clear that Thailand’s job market is highly competitive. HR leaders must adopt a holistic approach to compensation that includes not just salary but also a mix of incentives and employee well-being." Overall, while base salaries remain a foundational element of employee compensation in Thailand, the growing trend of incentive-based pay signals a shift towards more dynamic and adaptable remuneration packages, aligned with the country's thriving economic environment, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-13

Disciplinary and Criminal Charges for 7 Police Officers in Assault Case Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Seven traffic police officers face disciplinary and criminal charges after assaulting the wrong person, a case potentially linked to the enforced disappearance law. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346073-disciplinary-and-criminal-charges-for-7-police-officers-in-assault-case/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Seven traffic police officers face disciplinary and criminal charges after assaulting the wrong person, a case potentially linked to the enforced disappearance law. The incident unfolded on 4th December, when officers mistakenly attacked Thananope, 33, near a checkpoint in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district, suspecting him of evading a stop. Thananope, son of a retired police officer, was seriously injured. Metropolitan Police Deputy Commissioner, Pol Maj Gen Nopasilp Poonsawat, announced an investigation into the improper checkpoint setup and any directives involved. The Traffic Police Division has temporarily suspended all checkpoints for review. The officers, including Pol Lt. Col. Thaweepong Euthukon and others, face severe disciplinary action and have been released from duty pending investigation. Criminal proceedings are underway, with initial charges of misconduct and assault. The officers have denied the allegations. Further investigations are exploring connections to the Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance Act. The case has been forwarded to the National Anti-Corruption Commission for legal processing. In a related judicial outcome, Thanayut, the driver of the red Mazda initially sought by police, received a suspended two-month sentence, a 15,000 baht fine, and a six-month driving licence suspension for evading a checkpoint. Metropolitan Police are committed to rigorous adherence to regulations, having reminded all 88 stations and Traffic Police Division personnel of proper checkpoint protocols. The public is encouraged to report misconduct via emergency hotline 191, reported Thai Rath. -- 2024-12-13

Social Media Buzz: The Mystery 'Bell' at Traffic Lights Picture courtesy: Daily News Social media platforms are abuzz with theories about a peculiar white device resembling a bell, spotted atop traffic lights across intersections. Many wondered if it was a new type of traffic camera. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346069-social-media-buzz-the-mystery-bell-at-traffic-lights/

Picture courtesy: Daily News Social media platforms are abuzz with theories about a peculiar white device resembling a bell, spotted atop traffic lights across intersections. Many wondered if it was a new type of traffic camera. Recently, a user named "totoonline" ignited curiosity on the popular Thai forum Pantip with a post titled, "What is this pole in the middle of the road? Is it a camera?" featuring a photo of the mysterious white equipment. The device, mounted on poles specially or directly on traffic signals, left many puzzled due to its unconventional appearance. The post fuelled speculation, with some users initially assuming it to be a traffic camera. However, sceptical observers noted the absence of visible camera lenses. Others theorised it could be a traffic signal sensor, controlling lights based on vehicle presence—an idea seen in Japan. Eventually, a link shared in the discussion led users to WHA GROUP's website, providing clarity. The device is part of a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system used primarily for monitoring and managing fire prevention equipment like fire pumps and alarms, reported Daily News. This indicates its role may vary, depending on installation purposes, potentially extending beyond mere traffic control. Sources: Pantip.com, WHA GROUP. -- 2024-12-13

Buddhist Monk's Drunken Mishap Leads to Car Crash Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A Buddhist monk recently made headlines when he drove his car off the road in a drunken stupor, right by a football field in Nang Rong district, Buriram. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346064-buddhist-monks-drunken-mishap-leads-to-car-crash/