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Thailand is set to amend its anti-domestic violence law in response to rising concerns about household abuse. The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security is spearheading this revision, citing the increasing fragility of Thai society. Minister Varawut Silpa-archa announced that a primary focus of the ministry’s recent monthly meeting was the amendment of the Victims of Domestic Violence Protection Act, BE 2550. This move stems from alarming data collected by the Human Security Emergency Management Centre (HuSEC). HuSEC’s reports indicate that financial struggles, family disputes, and domestic violence consistently rank as the most reported issues each month. Varawut explained that the deteriorating economic situation, combined with other stressors, has led to a surge in violence affecting individuals of all ages, from toddlers to the elderly. “The ministry is urgently pushing for this amendment to promote domestic stability.” Varawut emphasised that the revised law aims to protect all family members, regardless of gender, and to support the creation of resilient households. “A strong family unit can prevent a range of social issues. Addressing domestic violence effectively can help mitigate problems like juvenile delinquency, homelessness, and begging.” The draft amendment has successfully passed a central hearing and is currently under review by an amendment committee. Varawut noted that the proposal is scheduled to be presented to the Cabinet in September and, if approved, will be published in the Royal Gazette thereafter. The ministry’s initiative reflects a broader commitment to safeguarding vulnerable populations and ensuring a more stable and secure societal framework, reported Bangkok Post. In June, Varawut intensified efforts to curb domestic violence, highlighting the issue as a major concern in recent months. Domestic violence constituted almost 70% of all reported violence cases this year. Varawut announced the news following a meeting with senior ministry officials, that the Human Security Emergency Management Centre is ramping up its initiatives to safeguard citizens facing domestic challenges. This includes establishing a 24/7 rapid deployment task force to assist people nationwide. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of iPleaders Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-06 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

British Man, 27, Vanishes in Thailand Before Flight Home Simon Robinson Did Not Board His Flight Home On July 26. Handout A Brit, 27-year-old Simon Robinson from Skegness, Lincolnshire, has mysteriously disappeared in Thailand just before he was due to board a flight back to the UK. His family have made an urgent plea for any sightings, fearing for his safety. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334755-british-man-27-vanishes-in-thailand-before-flight-home/

Simon Robinson Did Not Board His Flight Home On July 26. Handout. Courtesy: The Standard A Brit, 27-year-old Simon Robinson from Skegness, Lincolnshire, has mysteriously disappeared in Thailand just before he was due to board a flight back to the UK. His family have made an urgent plea for any sightings, fearing for his safety. Simon was holidaying in the southeast Asian country, having arrived on July 22nd. He was originally due to return on August 3rd but decided to change his flight to an earlier date, July 26th. Alarmingly, it is reported that he did not board his flight home from Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok on that day. According to the Bangkok Post, a trace of Simon's mobile phone signal confirmed he was in Bangkok just five minutes before he was expected to reach the airport. However, the signal either ceased or was deliberately turned off at that critical moment. Concern escalated dramatically when Simon’s phone was switched off after a call to his girlfriend, who lives in Boston. He had spoken to her on July 26th, assuring her of his return. This abrupt end to communication has deeply troubled his friends and family. Simon’s family has wasted no time in seeking help. They contacted the British embassy in Bangkok and have widely spread the word via social media, hoping that someone, somewhere, might have seen him or have any helpful information. His sister, Sarah Robinson Dale from Barnsley, emphasised that this behaviour is completely out of character for Simon. She has been tirelessly urging anyone with information to come forward and report it to the police. “I am thankful for everyone’s support and sharing. All anyone can do at the moment is, if you are in Bangkok and see him, contact the police or ask Simon to call me. If you’re in another country, just keep sharing the picture,” she posted on Facebook, reported the UK Standard. The family remains hopeful but gravely concerned as time continues to pass without any news. -- 2024-08-06 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Tuesday 6 August 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334746-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-6-august-2024/

The government plans to invest half-trillion-baht in water management over the next three years to enhance water security. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed concern and urged agencies to create an effective plan. Significant portions of the annual budget go towards aiding flood victims and compensation. The Office of the National Water Resources has been tasked with drafting this three-year water security plan. The Transport Ministry has ordered a feasibility study on relocating Bangkok Port from Klong Toey to reduce pollution and traffic. A Bangkok North University poll of 2,500 residents found over 70% support for the move. The area would be redeveloped and feature office buildings, smart community residences, medical facilities, retail and exhibition spaces, a sports complex, and a park. the Office of Transport Planning, says The Southern Land Bridge megaproject will proceed after companies in China the UAE, and the U.S have expressed interest to invest. Construction is due to begin in 2026 until 2030. The Land Bridge will offer an alternative shipping route between the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, and includes two deep-sea ports in Chumphon and Ranong, connected by a motorway and railway. The Royal Thai Army has said an incident where senior army officers allegedly ordered over ten trainee soldiers to stand naked in the rain for more than five hours and then beat and kicked them was being investigated. The incident took place last thursday and was reported on a facebook page by the sister of one of the young soldiers, The Army said it had established committees to look into the case but gave no further details. Around the region. Myanmar’s junta has lost communications with senior officers at a major military base near the Chinese border, after rebel forces announced they had taken control of the key regional army headquarters. The group posted photographs of its troops at the military stronghold following weeks of intense fighting. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Thundershowers 31C degrees celsius Bangkok: Cloudy with some Thundershowers 33 Pattaya: Sunny partly cloudy 31 Phuket and the south: Thundershowers 29 Hua Hin: Bright start becoming cloudy with rain this afternoon 32 Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-08-06 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai PM Assures Nation on Blackchin Tilapia Spread Control Picture courtesy: NNT Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed confidence today that the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives would effectively manage the spread of blackchin tilapia, addressing growing concerns about the invasive species. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334745-thai-pm-assures-nation-on-blackchin-tilapia-spread-control/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed confidence today that the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives would effectively manage the spread of blackchin tilapia, addressing growing concerns about the invasive species. The PM made these comments during a water management meeting at the Royal Irrigation Department in Bangkok's Dusit district. Blackchin tilapia, originally from West Africa, has increasingly posed a threat to Thailand’s aquatic ecosystems. Its rapid reproduction and adaptability to various environments have caused alarm amongst environmentalists and local fishermen. Flooding and water overflows, particularly during the rainy season, risk further dispersing the species into uncharted territories. Srettha outlined how the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives has developed a robust strategy to handle the situation. This plan comprises immediate containment efforts, medium-term monitoring, and long-term ecological management. "We are prepared and proactive in our approach to ensure this species does not jeopardise our native biodiversity," he assured. The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of local community involvement and education in combating the spread. Awareness campaigns and training programmes are set to be rolled out, empowering communities to recognise and report sightings of the invasive fish. Dr. Nirat Trakulthong, head of the Ministry’s Department of Fisheries, also attended the meeting, emphasising the collaborative approach between government departments and local authorities. "Our focus is on preventing further spread while assessing the impact on livelihoods and native species," he stated. Environmental experts warn that if left unregulated, blackchin tilapia could outcompete indigenous fish, disrupt local ecosystems, and potentially impact the fishing industry. However, Srettha's address today aimed to calm anxieties by highlighting the government's firm grasp on the issue and their detailed plan to manage it. In summary, while the blackchin tilapia presents a real and present threat, the government’s coordinated efforts appear poised to mitigate its spread and protect Thailand’s rich aquatic diversity. Picture courtesy: NNT -- 2024-08-06 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Mother Seeks Help After Son's 4-Year Disappearance in Thailand Picture courtesy: Daily News A deeply concerned mother, Ms. Yoshimi Nishi, 66, has approached Khlong Tan Police Station regarding the mysterious disappearance of her son, Mr. Takashiro Nishi, a 39-year-old Japanese national. The distressing situation began four years ago, and since then, Ms. Nishi has anguished over the location and wellbeing of her son. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334744-mother-seeks-help-after-sons-4-year-disappearance-in-thailand/

A deeply concerned mother, Ms. Yoshimi Nishi, 66, has approached Khlong Tan Police Station regarding the mysterious disappearance of her son, Mr. Takashiro Nishi, a 39-year-old Japanese national. The distressing situation began four years ago, and since then, Ms. Nishi has anguished over the location and wellbeing of her son. Mr. Takashiro Nishi last communicated with his mother on June 29, 2020, via the messaging app LINE. In that message, he claimed to be seriously ill and asked for 1 million yen. After receiving the funds, Mr. Takashiro vanished, prompting Ms. Nishi, after numerous futile attempts to contact him, to turn to the Japanese Embassy for assistance. The embassy reported that Takashiro was previously arrested in Thailand due to embezzlement charges. He fled after being granted bail, leading to an arrest warrant being issued by the Phra Nakhon South District Court. Despite these alarming developments, the matter grew more complex, reported Daily News. On June 9, 2023, Ms. Nishi received an email claiming Mr. Takashiro's health had worsened, prompting her to transfer another 1 million yen. Another email on June 21 demanded an additional 300,000 yen, but Ms. Nishi halted any further transactions, becoming suspicious of the situation. Investigations revealed Mr. Takashiro entered Thailand via the Nong Khai Immigration checkpoint on March 5, 2020. His last visa extension was done on March 5, 2021, at the Nakhon Sawan Immigration checkpoint, with his permission expiring in 2022. Ms. Nishi filed the formal complaint fearing her son was harmed. Pol. Col. Witthawat Chinkam, Commander of Metropolitan Police Division 5, stated that the police had yet to coordinate with the Immigration Bureau but assured Ms. Nishi that a full investigation would commence. The process would involve checking bail records, guarantors, and addresses connected to Mr. Takashiro. The case remains shrouded in uncertainty, with the critical question of Mr. Takashiro’s fate still unanswered. The police have initiated inquiries in Nakhon Sawan to find clues, starting with the last recorded movement of Mr. Takashiro's visa renewal. As Ms. Nishi awaits further updates, the pressing search for Mr. Takashiro continues, holding onto hope amid the troubling circumstances. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-08-06 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Corrections Department Defends Thaksin Shinawatra Release Date Thaisin Shinawatra. Stock image courtesy: Thai PBS The Department of Corrections has clarified the confusion surrounding former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's scheduled release after his current suspensions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334743-corrections-department-defends-thaksin-shinawatra-release-date/

The Department of Corrections has clarified the confusion surrounding former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's scheduled release after his current suspensions. The release date of August 31, 2024, is correct, assured officials, addressing concerns from former MP Thepthai Senapong on alleged miscalculations. Thaksin, who was imprisoned on August 22, 2023, received a royal pardon reducing his sentence to one year, starting from August 31, 2023. This has raised questions about the sentence and the Department of Corrections' methods. Thepthai Senapong, a former MP from Nakhon Si Thammarat, voiced his doubts on social media, questioning who would be held accountable if the Department had indeed miscalculated. This prompted a swift response from the Department’s PR team, clarifying the legal and procedural correctness of their calculations. The corrections officials explained that the prison term calculations begin from the date of incarceration. For prisoners to qualify for a punishment suspension, they must serve at least six months or one-third of their term, whichever is greater. In Thaksin's case, the starting date is August 22, 2023, and his initial release was calculated based on serving a minimum of six months. Thus, his eventual release aligns with legal frameworks, reported Siam Rath. The Department referenced Section 21 of the Criminal Code, which dictates prison term computation. A day in prison equals a full day, and months are counted as thirty days. This systematic approach confirms Thaksin’s release date of August 31, 2024, is accurate. This detailed response from corrections officials aims to dispel any lingering doubts about the adherence to legal guidelines in Thaksin’s case, ensuring public trust in the justice system’s integrity. The Department underscores that all calculations and procedures have been thoroughly reviewed to maintain public confidence in the correctional protocols and operations. Thaisin Shinawatra. Stock image courtesy: Thai PBS -- 2024-08-06 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Army Orders Mental Health Checks for Trainers After Chiang Mai Abuse Incident Defense Minister Suthin Klangsang. Picture courtesy: Wikimedia Defence Minister Suthin Klangsang has ordered a mental health checkup for all army supervisors and trainers nationwide. The directive follows a disturbing incident at a Chiang Mai training camp where 10 privates were subjected to naked abuse by two non-commissioned officers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334738-army-orders-mental-health-checks-for-trainers-after-chiang-mai-abuse-incident/

Defense Minister Suthin Klangsang. Picture courtesy: Wikimedia Defence Minister Suthin Klangsang has ordered a mental health checkup for all army supervisors and trainers nationwide. The directive follows a disturbing incident at a Chiang Mai training camp where 10 privates were subjected to naked abuse by two non-commissioned officers. In a tense meeting with top military officials, including Gen. Ukrit Boontanon and Lt. Gen. Anupha Sirimonthon, the minister addressed the troubling events at the 25th Cavalry Battalion of the 4th Cavalry Regiment, King’s Guard. Reports revealed that a corporal and a sergeant, allegedly intoxicated, forced the privates to strip naked, stand in the rain for six hours, and endure physical abuse. The incident came to light when the sister of one of the victims took to a community Facebook page, Sai Mai Tong Rod (Sai Mai District Must Survive), to report the abuse. She detailed how the privates were slapped, kicked, and stomped on, with many sustaining internal injuries. Minister Klangsang received an initial army report but demanded more details. He learned that the incidents occurred twice, in March and August, and that those responsible had already been investigated and punished. However, he emphasized the need for a thorough review to ensure that the punishments were appropriately enforced. The abuse incidents, occurring near border camps with stricter protocols, highlighted the potential for stress-related abusive behaviours among supervisors. In response, Klangsang stressed the importance of revising regulations for disciplinary investigations and court-martials. He also confirmed the formation of a committee to ensure adequate punishment for those found guilty. Recognizing the potential for stress-induced abusive conduct, Klangsang ordered mental health checks for all supervisors and trainers across training camps nationwide. This move aims to prevent future incidents and ensure the well-being of both trainees and instructors. -- 2024-08-06 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Digital Wallet Project Sales Exempt from Revenue Department Access Picture courtesy: Amari TV Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat confirmed today that sales figures from the Pheu Thai-initiated digital wallet project will not be accessible by the Revenue Department as initially feared. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334737-digital-wallet-project-sales-exempt-from-revenue-department-access/

Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat confirmed today that sales figures from the Pheu Thai-initiated digital wallet project will not be accessible by the Revenue Department as initially feared. The announcement follows widespread concerns among small- to medium-sized retailers and vendors who worried that the data could be used for income tax collection. Julapun alleviated these concerns by stating that the Ministry of Commerce will not share trading figures from the 10,000-baht digital wallet transactions with the Revenue Department. Julapun emphasised this during a public statement on 5th August, highlighting that the digital wallet sales data will remain separate from tax-related databases. This reassurance comes as a significant relief to small business owners concerned about potential tax implications on their sales profits under the Pheu Thai-initiated handout programme. The initiative, aimed at providing 10,000 baht via digital wallets, has seen substantial interest with nearly 24 million Thai nationals aged 16 and over already registered through the Stateway App. The registration deadline has been set for 15th September, with the project anticipated to launch in the fourth quarter of this year. All retailers and vendors wishing to participate in the digital wallet project will still need to register online with the Ministry of Commerce. However, this will not link their sales data to the Revenue Department, Julapun confirmed. The digital wallet handout project is seen as a populist measure designed to boost consumer spending and aid the country's economy. However, it has also faced scrutiny and cautious optimism from various sectors. Julapun’s assurance was intended to encourage broader participation from small vendors who were hesitant due to potential tax risks. With an estimated potential pool of 45 million participants, this project could play a pivotal role in revitalising local market economies without the added burden of new tax liabilities for participating retailers and vendors. Picture courtesy: Amari TV -- 2024-08-06 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chiang Mai Residents Protest Landfill's Overwhelming Odour and Flies Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Residents of several villages near a landfill in Chiang Mai's Choeng Doi sub-district have raised alarms over a persistent foul odour emanating from the site. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334736-chiang-mai-residents-protest-landfills-overwhelming-odour-and-flies/

Residents of several villages near a landfill in Chiang Mai's Choeng Doi sub-district have raised alarms over a persistent foul odour emanating from the site. These locals, living within a kilometre radius of the landfill, report that the smell is so overpowering they are compelled to wear face masks nearly all day and keep their homes tightly shut to block the stench. Moreover, the area is plagued by swarms of flies drawn to the dump. The landfill in Village 11 currently holds about 30,000 tonnes of waste, sourced from ten districts, and continues to receive an additional 400 tonnes daily. However, the garbage management facility operated by the Chiang Mai Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) can only manage a maximum disposal rate of 250 tonnes per day, reported Thai PBS. In response to mounting complaints, Somchart Wattanakla, Vice Mayor of the Chiang Mai PAO, mentioned efforts to limit waste intake. "We have asked the garbage collection companies to restrict the daily trash dumped at the landfill to 300 tonnes," he stated. Additionally, fire trucks and drones have been deployed to spray Effective Microorganisms (EM) onto the waste. This technique aims to increase beneficial soil microorganisms and suppress harmful ones. To further tackle the issue, the Chiang Mai PAO plans to construct a high barrier to prevent the wind from spreading the odour to nearby villages. Recently, the Ministry of Interior approved a significant initiative: a garbage-fuelled power plant capable of processing around 650 tonnes of waste daily. The project will separate recyclable and non-degradable trash uses. Recyclable waste will be turned into compost, while non-degradable trash will be burnt as fuel for the power plant. This new infrastructure aims not only to mitigate the odour and fly problem but also to provide a more sustainable waste management solution for the region's growing garbage woes. Picture courtesy: Thai PBS -- 2024-08-06 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Police Round Up Bolt Drivers Involved in Clash with Kuwaiti Tourists By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: 77kaoded Pattaya — Pattaya Police finally managed to round up a group of Thai Bolt drivers who were involved in a massive fight with Kuwaiti tourists on Soi Yensabai earlier this weekend. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334734-pattaya-police-round-up-bolt-drivers-involved-in-clash-with-kuwaiti-tourists/

Pattaya — Pattaya Police finally managed to round up a group of Thai Bolt drivers who were involved in a massive fight with Kuwaiti tourists on Soi Yensabai earlier this weekend. On August 5th, 2024, Pol. Col. Nawin Thirawit, Superintendent of Pattaya Police Station, along with other officers, apprehended nine Bolt drivers, aged 20-30 years old. They were taken to the Pattaya police station for questioning before being formally charged with assault and property damage. The arrests followed a clash between Thai men, many of whom were Bolt drivers, and Kuwaiti tourists after an unresolved traffic accident dispute. Reports indicate that over 50 Kuwaiti men attacked a single Thai man, prompting the Thai men to retaliate, which led to the viral confrontation. The nine suspects, whose names were not disclosed by the police, admitted their involvement in the fight. They claimed that their actions were motivated by a Facebook post, which urged Pattaya locals to reclaim their honor after the alleged attack on the Thai man. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: 77kaoded Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-08-06 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Motorbike Delivery Rider Attacked After Refusing to Buy Illegal Drugs in Rawai By Goongnang Suksawat Chalong, Thailand – A mobile delivery application rider was brutally attacked in Rawai after declining an offer to purchase illegal drugs. The incident occurred near a seafood restaurant at Rawai Pier on Sunday, August 4th, at 5:07 A.M. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334733-motorbike-delivery-rider-attacked-after-refusing-to-buy-illegal-drugs-in-rawai/

Chalong, Thailand – A mobile delivery application rider was brutally attacked in Rawai after declining an offer to purchase illegal drugs. The incident occurred near a seafood restaurant at Rawai Pier on Sunday, August 4th, at 5:07 A.M. Victim: Mr. Teeradet Damthip, 22, sustained head injuries from slashed wounds during the assault. According to Mr. Teeradet’s statement to the Chalong Police, he did not know the suspect. After finishing work, he was on his way home when the suspect approached him. The suspect offered him methamphetamine, which Mr. Teeradet declined, stating that he did not use drugs. In response, the suspect allegedly became aggressive, and his gang attacked Mr. Teeradet with a knife, causing the head injuries. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE OHUKET EXPRESS 2024-08-06 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Croc on the run finally in the net after a week of gator-aid in Phuket by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A saltwater crocodile, which had been eluding capture for six days, was finally apprehended by local officials in Phuket. The reptile, discovered in an old mining pond, will undergo health and species checks at a coastal fisheries research centre. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334732-croc-on-the-run-finally-in-the-net-after-a-week-of-gator-aid-in-phuket/

A saltwater crocodile, which had been eluding capture for six days, was finally apprehended by local officials in Phuket. The reptile, discovered in an old mining pond, will undergo health and species checks at a coastal fisheries research centre. Security guards at a golf course in Pa Khlok, Thalang District, Phuket, first spotted the crocodile on July 31. The sighting prompted an immediate response from Thertsak Mittrawong, the district fisheries officer, along with local officials and the village headman from Moo 4, Pa Khlok. Concerned for public safety, they coordinated with experts from Panya Farm in Kamphaeng Saen, Nakhon Pathom, known for their crocodile conservation and capture training. Upon confirming that the creature was a saltwater crocodile, the team altered their strategy to encircle and capture it. Despite their best efforts, several challenges hindered the operation, and five days passed without success. Today, August 5, the pursuit team, led by Nikhom Suksawat from Panya Farm’s crack team, successfully captured the elusive crocodile. After six arduous days and nights, the reptile was finally secured. Local Phuket officials transported the crocodile to the Coastal Fisheries Research and Development Centre in either Phang Nga’s Thai Mueang or Phuket’s Ban Para in Pa Khlok, Thalang District. Initially, the crocodile will be placed in a cement pond for health and species verification. Following these checks, it will be moved to a larger pond to acclimatise. Croc on the run finally in the net after a week of gator-aid in Phuket | News by Thaiger Picture courtesy of KhaoSod The community’s response was a mix of relief and curiosity. Many locals had been on edge since the initial sighting, with some expressing concerns about the potential danger posed by the animal. “It was quite a scare for everyone here. We’re glad the authorities took swift action and finally captured it.” The capture operation involved multiple agencies and highlighted the complexities of handling wildlife in populated areas. The crocodile’s presence in a private pond within a golf course added an unusual twist to the situation, raising questions about how it ended up there in the first place. Saltwater crocodiles are known for their aggressive behaviour and ability to travel long distances in search of suitable habitats. While they are not native to Phuket, sightings have been reported occasionally, often attributed to illegal wildlife trade or escape from captivity. Authorities plan to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the crocodile’s origin. The health checks and species verification at the research centre will provide crucial information that could aid in understanding how the animal came to be in the old mining pond, said a local official. “We need to ensure that such incidents do not recur. It’s essential to understand the source and prevent future occurrences.” The incident underscores the importance of wildlife management and the challenges faced by local officials in ensuring public safety while preserving natural habitats. The collaborative effort between local officials, conservation experts, and the community played a pivotal role in resolving the situation. Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Bob Scott TOP Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-06 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Indonesian Police Seize Thai Cannabis En Route to UK Marijuana-Cannabis-Weed-Bud-Gram. Representative image. Source courtesy: Wikipedia Jakarta – Indonesian police have apprehended two individuals suspected of being part of a marijuana smuggling ring, thwarting an elaborate scheme to export the drug from Southeast Asia to the United Kingdom. The suspects reportedly attempted to ship cannabis camouflaged within packages of bed linen and cat toys. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334730-indonesian-police-seize-thai-cannabis-en-route-to-uk/

Marijuana-Cannabis-Weed-Bud-Gram. Representative image. Source courtesy: Wikipedia Jakarta – Indonesian police have apprehended two individuals suspected of being part of a marijuana smuggling ring, thwarting an elaborate scheme to export the drug from Southeast Asia to the United Kingdom. The suspects reportedly attempted to ship cannabis camouflaged within packages of bed linen and cat toys. While Indonesia witnesses marijuana confiscations from time to time, the cross-border element in this case stands out. Marthinus Hukom, the head of Indonesia’s narcotics agency, mentioned, "This is a new phenomenon as the marijuana from Thailand was sent first to Indonesia then [was destined for] Europe.” He further disclosed that the culprits, both Indonesian nationals, had plans to dispatch over 100kg of cannabis from Jakarta to Liverpool. During a raid at Soekarno Hatta Airport on July 25, authorities discovered more than 30kg of marijuana concealed within bed linen and cat toys. A follow-up raid led to the unearthing of an additional 80kg of marijuana housed within a shophouse associated with the suspects. Hukom estimated the total street value of the seized cannabis at 25 billion rupiah. The detained suspects face charges under Indonesia’s stringent narcotics law, which imposes the death penalty as its maximum punishment. In a noteworthy backdrop to this incident, Thailand, a leading source of the intercepted cannabis, decriminalised marijuana in 2022, marking it as one of the first nations in Asia to do so. This shift sparked a surge in recreational use and the proliferation of cannabis cafes and retailers across the country. However, the Thai government recently announced plans to re-regulate cannabis, aiming to confine its legality strictly to medical purposes. This legislative push follows concerns over widespread recreational consumption. This case highlights the ongoing complexities and challenges in regional drug enforcement, particularly as nations adapt their drug policies. -- 2024-08-06 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe