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Picture courtesy of Amarin TV by Bob Scott In an eyebrow-raising update from Bangkok’s bustling Sukhumvit 31 stretch, police quashed rumours of a cover-up in an outrageous gay underwear bash that involved drugs but no glittering celebrity attendees. Police Major General Wittawat Chinkam, Metropolitan Police Bureau 5 chief, yesterday, December 10, convened a nearly two-hour session to dissect the scandal involving a group of gay men who threw a drug-fuelled shindig at a hotel in the capital city Maj. Wittawat insists that despite the buzz, the party left no evidence destroyed or CCTV footage wiped, as previously rumoured. Officers have bagged all crucial clues, with full cooperation from the hotel, who’ve pointed out the precise locations of wild antics. In a forensic frenzy, even leftover rubbish was seized for scrutiny. Yet, there’s more work to be done, the audacious downtown drug jamboree has several threads to follow, including the source of the narcotics. Early probes indicate that the party pals toted drugs and sold them to spice up the scene but no scandalous bedroom romps were found when the law swooped in. Quashing whispers of police involvement, officers clarified that despite one suspect sharing a surname with a top-tier officer, there’s no familial link. And rest assured, the soiree had zero ties to celebs or the glitterati. Dubbed the trio.bd.party, this merry band comprises three gay groups who rotate hosting duties, ensuring select guests and venues. Attendees waltz in free of charge, as organisers foot the bill, barring the eye-watering room cost of 30,000 baht a night reported Amarin TV. The police chief has warned local enforcers that drug-fuelled bashes are moving from nightlife hotspots to plush hotel rooms in a sly bid to dodge discovery. Officers are on high alert, urging a crackdown on similar high-end hijinks in posh settings. Pictures courtesy of Amarin TV ORIGINAL STORY: 124 gay participants arrested at underwear drug party in Bangkok hotel Officers from Thong Lo Police Station arrested 124 gay men and women, including doctors and background actors, at an underwear drug party held in a hotel room in Bangkok yesterday. Police were alerted by a witness who reported suspicious activity after observing a large number of Thai and foreign men entering a room on the 20th floor of a hotel in the Wattana district of Bangkok at approximately 1.30am, December 8. Acting on this tip-off, officers conducted a raid on the hotel room. The party reportedly catered to gay participants, with attendance requiring prior registration. All attendees were instructed to strip down to their underwear upon arrival. When officers arrived, they encountered a worker hired to act as a receptionist, managing the list of registered guests in front of the lift in the hotel lobby. Upon entering the room, police found a group of Thai and foreign gay men and women, as reported. The attendees, dressed in underwear, were dancing to loud music and consuming alcohol. Officers proceeded to search each partygoer and discovered drugs in the possession of some attendees. The substances included ecstasy and ketamine. All party participants were subsequently taken to the police station for further drug testing. According to a report from Channel 7, a total of 124 people attended the party. Of these, 31 were found in possession of drugs, 66 tested positive for drug use, and the remaining 27 were free of any illegal substances. Those who tested negative for drugs will have their details recorded by the police, while those who tested positive will be sent for rehabilitation. Individuals found in possession of drugs will face legal proceedings at Bangkok South District Court and Bangkok South Criminal Court. Penalties for drug possession will vary depending on the quantity of drugs found. Channel 7 also reported that some attendees included doctors, who should be well aware of the harmful effects and legal implications of drug use, as well as background actors from a popular boys love series. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-11

Tourism Authority of Thailand targets Niche Tourism Boom in 2025 File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a strategic move to capitalise on the high-end travel market, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is banking on four niche sectors—wellness, luxury experiences, sports tourism, and honeymoons—for a prosperous 2025. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345875-tourism-authority-of-thailand-targets-niche-tourism-boom-in-2025/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a strategic move to capitalise on the high-end travel market, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is banking on four niche sectors—wellness, luxury experiences, sports tourism, and honeymoons—for a prosperous 2025. Propelled by a global shift towards personalised and luxurious travel experiences, the Thai tourism agency is crafting exclusive events and experiences to cater to an affluent clientele with substantial spending power. Chiravadee Khunsub, deputy governor for tourism products and business at the TAT, highlighted the increasing interest in high-value travel experiences, a trend mirrored by global figures. Reports from Allied Market Research place the collective potential of these markets at a staggering 31 billion baht globally back in 2019, with projections surging to an impressive 390 billion baht by 2027. Closer to home, luxury tourism in Thailand amassed between 60 and 70 billion baht in 2023, with expectations of an annual growth rate of 8-10%, signifying a robust upward trajectory for this sector. Recent data suggests that tourists drawn to these four markets predominantly visited five key destinations: Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Krabi, and Samui. Their average expenditure per person per trip was estimated at 77,693 baht, translating to approximately 6,171 baht per day. Thailand’s diverse landscapes, coupled with its top-tier luxury accommodations and renowned hospitality, make it an appealing proposition for such discerning travellers. Reflecting this demand, establishments graded four stars or higher have already increased their room rates by over 20-30%, noted Chiravadee. Beyond accommodation, the TAT is eager to elevate Thailand's international profile by hosting grand events—from concerts and sports events to fashion shows—in collaboration with luxury operators across the nation. Thailand is already reaping the benefits of its niche marketing strategy. A recent trail running event, Hoka Chiang Mai Thailand by UTMB, drew over 7,000 visitors, contributing 800 million baht to the local economy, and 70% of those attendees were international visitors. Similarly, the Amazing Thailand Marathon Bangkok 2024 featured Kenyan marathon legend Eliud Kipchoge, pulling in over 33,000 participants and generating approximately 660 million baht. In aiming for the future, TAT intends to spotlight signature Thai festivities such as Chinese New Year, Songkran, and Loy Krathong, boosting their international appeal. Sustainability is at the forefront of this initiative, with the agency committed to promoting eco-friendly practices like the 'Krabi Model,' which incorporates green events and skills training for tourism services, catering to an ever-growing environmentally-conscious demographic. Through these initiatives, Thailand is set on a path not only to rebound from past tourism slumps but to position itself as a premier destination for travellers seeking opulence and unique experiences, all while advocating for sustainability and cultural appreciation, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-11

Beauty queen scammed out of 4 million baht by cyber criminals by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Thairath Charlotte Austin, a beauty queen affiliated with Miss Grand Thailand, has reportedly fallen victim to a scam by a cybercriminal gang, resulting in a loss of 4 million baht. The perpetrators allegedly coerced her into a continuous 24-hour video call. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345872-beauty-queen-scammed-out-of-4-million-baht-by-cyber-criminals/

Picture courtesy of Thairath by Bright Choomanee Charlotte Austin, a beauty queen affiliated with Miss Grand Thailand, has reportedly fallen victim to a scam by a cybercriminal gang, resulting in a loss of 4 million baht. The perpetrators allegedly coerced her into a continuous 24-hour video call. The Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) is currently investigating the incident but has not yet been able to contact Charlotte directly. Police are awaiting her formal complaint to proceed with legal actions while urging her to provide any information about the scammers’ accounts and phone numbers. The scam involved a familiar tactic where the criminals posed as cyber police officers. They deceived Charlotte into believing her name was used to open a bank account linked to illegal activities, thus pressuring her to transfer money for supposed verification purposes. Despite the ongoing attempts to reach Charlotte, it is believed she may be preoccupied with personal matters, reported KhaoSod. Police Lieutenant General Trirong Phiwpan, acting head of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, stated that upon hearing the news from the media, they immediately ordered Police Major General Chatchapantakan Klaiklueang, head of CCIB Division 1, to investigate the case. In related news, a popular Twitter personality with over 30,000 followers was recently apprehended for impersonating a relative to swindle 50,000 baht. She was caught after returning from Malaysia and claimed she only provided OTP codes for small payments. The arrest took place on December 5, as Pramote Chanbungkaew, head of Phetkasem Police Station, and his team apprehended 27 year old Mathurin, from Maha Sarakham province. She was arrested under a warrant issued by Thonburi Criminal Court on November 25, at the Sadao Immigration Checkpoint in Songkhla, upon her return from Malaysia. The incident began on April 22, when a 20 year old victim named Natorn reported to the investigators at Phetkasem Police Station. He claimed that a woman, posing as his relative, called him using the number 061-980-xxxx. -- 2024-12-11

Yingluck's Return Like Thaksin Requires Jail Time, Says Wissanu Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Wisanu Krue-ngam has commented on the possibility of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra returning to Thailand, stating that her return would be subject to the legal process, similar to her brother, Thaksin Shinawatra, who has already been incarcerated. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345870-yinglucks-return-like-thaksin-requires-jail-time-says-wissanu/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Wisanu Krue-ngam has commented on the possibility of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra returning to Thailand, stating that her return would be subject to the legal process, similar to her brother, Thaksin Shinawatra, who has already been incarcerated. On 10th December 2567, Visanu Krue-ngam, former Deputy Prime Minister, addressed media queries about Yingluck’s potential return. He noted that while she could come back, like Thaksin, it would involve a royal pardon process. Should she return and agree to imprisonment, the matter would then fall under the Department of Corrections once the court procedures are completed. Questions were raised about Yingluck’s health, unlike Thaksin who required hospitalisation. Visanu responded that as far as he knew, there were no reports of Yingluck being ill, while confirming that Thaksin has indeed served time in prison, albeit not under the harsher conditions typical of the public's imagination. Visanu emphasised that the process followed for Thaksin involved initial jail admission and standard procedures such as signing in, changing clothes, and medical checks before transfer to a detention facility, albeit one newly fitted with basic amenities like a shower. Regarding doubts about Thaksin's illness, Visanu cited medical assessments and ongoing legal discussions concerning the length of Thaksin's sentence, initially estimated at 11 years but later clarified to be 8 years after judicial consultation. On expectations for Yingluck's return next year, Visanu advised patience, indicating it would all depend on entering the legal and judicial system, and reiterated the necessity of abiding by the legal process upon her possible return, reported Thai Rath. -- 2024-12-11

Korat Restaurant Chief Laments: Economy Slumps, Customers Dwindle Picture courtesy: INN The head of Nakhon Ratchasima Restaurant Association is calling for government action to revive the economy, as local eateries suffer from dwindling customer numbers amidst ongoing financial slumps. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345869-korat-restaurant-chief-laments-economy-slumps-customers-dwindle/

Picture courtesy: INN The head of Nakhon Ratchasima Restaurant Association is calling for government action to revive the economy, as local eateries suffer from dwindling customer numbers amidst ongoing financial slumps. Jirasak Karawiwatana, the association's president, reported that despite being the end of the year, the economic climate in Nakhon Ratchasima remains grim. Many restaurants in the area are experiencing a significant drop in customers, with some even shutting down operations. The dual hit of soaring ingredient costs and reduced consumer spending power, driven by rising living expenses, has created financial distress for both restaurant owners and their clientele. Jirasak is urging the government to reintroduce the “50:50” co-payment scheme, which previously encouraged robust consumer spending, spurring a quick economic rebound, reported INN. He believes that restoring such policies could provide the necessary boost for the end-of-year fiscal climate. "The government shouldn't worry about political perceptions when continuing effective policies from previous administrations," he stated. "Successful economic measures will enhance public support." -- 2024-12-11

Two Afghan Men Arrested at Phuket Airport for Fake Passports Two Afghan nationals were apprehended at Phuket Airport for using counterfeit passports while waiting to transfer flights. The pair, Abdul Bashir Kawoskgar, aged 24, and Mustafa Ahadi, aged 20, were discovered with fake Kazakhstani passports on 9th December. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345867-two-afghan-men-arrested-at-phuket-airport-for-fake-passports/

Two Afghan nationals were apprehended at Phuket Airport for using counterfeit passports while waiting to transfer flights. The pair, Abdul Bashir Kawoskgar, aged 24, and Mustafa Ahadi, aged 20, were discovered with fake Kazakhstani passports on 9th December. The arrest, executed by the Phuket Immigration team under the direction of senior police officials, followed intelligence indicating that the suspects were using fraudulent documents. The men were preparing to board Bangkok Airways flight PG276 with plans to connect to another flight bound for Manila. Upon inspection in the international departure hall, officers confirmed the passports as forgeries and detained the individuals. Both men face charges related to the possession and use of counterfeit passports, as per Thai law. They have been transferred to the Sakoo Police Station, where police will continue their investigations and pursue further legal action. The incident highlights ongoing efforts to crack down on illegal entries through tightened airport security measures, reported Thai Rath. -- 2024-12-11

Swiss Man Attempts Suicide Amid Financial Struggles in Thailand Picture courtesy: Daily News A 66-year-old Swiss national wrote a suicide note before severely injuring himself with a box cutter in a Pattaya home. Despite the severity of his injuries, he initially refused medical treatment until reassured by friends and neighbours. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345861-swiss-man-attempts-suicide-amid-financial-struggles-in-thailand/

Picture courtesy: Daily News A 66-year-old Swiss national wrote a suicide note before severely injuring himself with a box cutter in a Pattaya home. Despite the severity of his injuries, he initially refused medical treatment until reassured by friends and neighbours. On 10th December, police in Nong Prue, Chonburi, responded to reports of a foreigner's self-harm incident at a residence in Soi Khao Talo. Upon arrival, they found blood leading from the kitchen to the bathroom where Mr R, with deep wounds on both sides of his neck, was sitting against a wall. His friend, Mr Yong, discovered him in this state and had been administering first aid. Emergency services from the Sawang Boriboon Foundation quickly provided initial medical care, but Mr R resisted hospitalisation, expressing a desire to die. After nearly an hour of persuasion by those close to him, he agreed to be taken to Banglamung Hospital. Mr Yong revealed that Mr R had been under severe stress and depression, exacerbated by being deceived out of almost all his money by a former Thai wife. The financial distress reportedly also stemmed from his fear of being unable to cover medical expenses. Police found a suicide note on the dining table stating, "my love Prayong I’m so sorry it’s not your wrong! I have made my life wrong. and I have no way out “sorry” R." Alongside the note was a blood-stained cutter. Mr Rr had reportedly been waiting for hours, believing there was no alternative due to his financial woes and pending legal issues with his ex-wife. His condition was stabilised after assurances of financial help for his treatment, reported Daily News. If you or someone you know is feeling depressed please reach out for help. Asean Now suggests the Samaritans of Thailand which can be reached HERE -- 2024-12-11

Tourists Clash in Violent Street Fight on Bangla Road, Phuket video screenshot In a recent incident underscoring the disregard for local laws, tourists were caught in a physical altercation on Bangla Road in Patong, Phuket, leading to intervention from local residents. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345854-tourists-clash-in-violent-street-fight-on-bangla-road-phuket/

video screenshot In a recent incident underscoring the disregard for local laws, tourists were caught in a physical altercation on Bangla Road in Patong, Phuket, leading to intervention from local residents. On 10th December, a video surfaced on the "Hod Jang Phuket" Facebook page, showing a violent fight between foreign tourists on the bustling street. The clip, lasting 18 seconds, quickly went viral, with the caption reading, "Going hard on Bangla Road, Patong!" The incident unfolded in the lively Soi Bangla area, where tempers flared, resulting in the tourists exchanging blows until locals stepped in to separate them. The video sparked a mix of reactions from social media users, with comments ranging from expressions of disbelief to humorous remarks. The episode has once again drawn attention to the challenges of maintaining order in Phuket’s popular nightlife district. -- 2024-12-11 WARNG: The video contains images that may be upsetting for some viewers. Viewer discretion is advised

Gunman Killed by Bystanders after Fatal Rampage in Prachin Buri Picture courtesy: PArchinburi News via Siam Rath Prachin Buri, Thailand - A man went on a violent shooting spree that left two dead and three injured, only to meet his end at the hands of bystanders. The chaos unfolded this afternoon when the gunman began his attack at a local market, sparking terror throughout the area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345852-gunman-killed-by-bystanders-after-fatal-rampage-in-prachin-buri/

Picture courtesy: PArchinburi News via Siam Rath Prachin Buri, Thailand - A man went on a violent shooting spree that left two dead and three injured, only to meet his end at the hands of bystanders. The chaos unfolded this afternoon when the gunman began his attack at a local market, sparking terror throughout the area. At approximately 4 p.m., police received reports of a shooting in Tha Ngam, a subdistrict in Prachin Buri city. Responding swiftly, officers discovered a horrific scene at a petrol station near the market. One person lay dead, while another was injured. It emerged that the assailant had initiated his assault by pursuing two individuals from their nearby home, ultimately confronting them at the petrol station where he opened fire, killing one and injuring another. Not satisfied with the devastation already inflicted, the gunman quickly fled the scene on a motorcycle. He made his way to Chao Phraya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital, where he parked near an adjacent house. From there, he proceeded to a grilled chicken shop, entering the establishment and once more unleashing a hail of bullets. This second eruption left four more individuals wounded. The mayhem drew the attention of relatives and bystanders at the shop, who acted decisively. Outraged and determined to stop the violence, they tackled the gunman and, in a dramatic turn, fatally stabbed him, bringing his rampage to an immediate halt. Tragically, one of the four individuals shot at the chicken shop later succumbed to their injuries at the hospital, raising the death toll to three, including the assailant. The identities of the victims are yet to be released by local authorities. Police have identified the gunman as 38-year-old Mr. Surat (surname withheld). As investigators work to piece together his motives, it has come to light that he had previously lived in a house near the eatery he targeted and had a history of violence, including a past slashing incident at the same location, reported Thai Newsroom. Community members are left reeling by this abrupt surge of violence, grasping for answers as police continue to investigate the tragic series of events. The community’s resilience and willingness to intervene played a crucial role in averting further potential casualties, illustrating both the desperation and bravery of those caught in the crossfire. As the investigation continues, officials are appealing for witnesses to come forward with any information that might illuminate the gunman's motivations and any underlying issues that might have precipitated this shocking ordeal. -- 2024-12-11

Police Investigate 'Foreign Mafia" Claims in Pathum Thani Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Reports surfaced on social media alleging that foreign mafias had taken over streets in Pathum Thani’s Mueang Ake area, setting up shops and charging for parking. In response, local authorities conducted a swift investigation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345796-police-investigate-foreign-mafia-claims-in-pathum-thani/

Anutin Opposes Coup Prevention Bill in Thailand Anutin Charnvirakul. Picture courtesy; NNT The Bhumjaithai Party, led by Anutin Charnvirakul, has expressed firm opposition to a controversial bill by Pheu Thai Party that aims to amend the Defence Ministry Administration Act. This bill, perceived as an effort to restrict the military's capability to conduct coups, has sparked significant debate. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345799-anutin-opposes-coup-prevention-bill-in-thailand/

Thai Police to Crack Down on Crime During New Year Festivities Picture courtesy: Daily News As part of an aggressive new directive, Thai immigration authorities are gearing up for a major crime suppression effort during the upcoming New Year festivities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345804-thai-police-to-crack-down-on-crime-during-new-year-festivities/

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 11 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1345845-thailand-live-wednesday-11-december-2024/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Former Nakhon Si Thammarat MP, Thepthai Senpong, voiced on Facebook that no law can deter military coups in Thailand, addressing recent debates sparked by the proposed Ministry of Defence Reorganisation Bill. Thai Politician Asserts Laws Can't Prevent Coups Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345800-thai-politician-asserts-laws-cant-prevent-coups/

Thai Police to Crack Down on Crime During New Year Festivities Picture courtesy: Daily News As part of an aggressive new directive, Thai immigration authorities are gearing up for a major crime suppression effort during the upcoming New Year festivities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345804-thai-police-to-crack-down-on-crime-during-new-year-festivities/

Picture courtesy: Daily News As part of an aggressive new directive, Thai immigration authorities are gearing up for a major crime suppression effort during the upcoming New Year festivities. Responding to a government policy aimed at ensuring safety and boosting tourism, police are coordinating nationwide operations to maintain order as the country prepares to welcome an expected influx of up to 120,000 visitors daily. In a recent meeting at Suvarnabhumi Airport, Police Major General Phanumet Boonyarak, acting chief of the Immigration Bureau, emphasised the urgency of bolstering security measures at airports across Thailand. The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's call for immediate action on tourism, which includes a visa-free policy for 93 countries and territories that has significantly increased international arrivals. Since the start of 2023, over 28 million foreign visitors have entered Thailand, with Chinese, Indian, South Korean, Russian, and Japanese nationals topping the list. Given the soaring numbers expected during the holiday period, additional immigration officers and advanced biometric systems are being deployed to ensure swift processing and prevent delays. In tandem with facilitating travel, authorities are set to intensify a crackdown on illegal activities among foreign nationals, targeting those who breach Thailand's immigration and labour laws. Ongoing operations will engage in rigorous checks from December 11 to 17, aiming to dismantle any groups involved in unlawful gatherings or disruptive behaviour. Recent efforts have already borne fruit with the arrest of a Myanmar national in Samut Sakhon, caught with unlicensed firearms. Officials issued a stern warning to foreigners involved in illegal activities, stressing zero tolerance and the potential for serious repercussions. With streamlined procedures and enhanced workforce readiness, the Thai Immigration Bureau is committed to delivering a safe and welcoming environment for all travellers, ensuring a smooth experience while upholding international standards, reported Daily News. -- 2024-12-10

Thai Singer Died from Blood and Fungal Infections, Not from Neck Massage Picture courtesy: Malay Mail 20-year-old singer Chayada Prao-hom, affectionately known as Ping Chayada, has passed away from septicemia, after a series of massage treatments. Her death has raised questions regarding the safety of such services, especially after routine sessions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345802-thai-singer-died-from-blood-and-fungal-infections-not-from-neck-massage/