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to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 6 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1334729-thailand-live-tuesday-6-august-2024/

Thai woman loses 50,000 baht to boyfriend after 2 days of dating Photo via MGR Online A Thai woman in Bangkok lost 50,000 baht in cash to her boyfriend after only two days of dating and not even knowing his full name. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334695-thai-woman-loses-50000-baht-to-boyfriend-after-2-days-of-dating/

Thailand’s major overhaul of visas and entry rules has sparked a variety of reactions, ranging from joy and excitement to confusion and some resentment. Thailand unveils new visa rules, sparks mixed reactions Picture courtesy of ET Travel world official website Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334685-thailand-unveils-new-visa-rules-sparks-mixed-reactions/

Pattaya rebranding as family-friendly destination to boost tourism by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of tripadvisor Pattaya’s tourism operators have put forth a proposal to the tourism minister, aiming to transform the city’s image into a family-friendly destination, distancing it from associations with sex tourism and illegal gambling. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334646-pattaya-rebranding-as-family-friendly-destination-to-boost-tourism/

Pattaya’s tourism operators have put forth a proposal to the tourism minister, aiming to transform the city’s image into a family-friendly destination, distancing it from associations with sex tourism and illegal gambling. The Association of Chon Buri Tourism Federation (ACTF) recently convened with Tourism Minister Sermsak Pongpanit to discuss the initiative. The meeting also included insights from a workshop that engaged foreign tour agencies from five key markets: Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States, Germany, South Korea, China, and India. The ACTF and the minister discussed plans to collaborate on boosting Pattaya tourism and rebranding the city. Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, President of the ACTF, highlighted that Pattaya has evolved from being a nightlife hotspot to a more family-friendly city with a diverse range of activities. “Pattaya has the potential to become a city of various attractions and a hub for investment as well as world-class events.” The city offers diverse attractions such as beaches, high-standard golf courses, cultural sites, meeting facilities, and shopping malls. Its proximity to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport and U-Tapao Airport in Chon Buri, along with nearby provinces like Rayong and Bang Saen, further enhances its appeal by helping to absorb the tourist inflow. Last month, locals and operators in Pattaya protested against the Thai media’s portrayal of their city as a “Sin City.” Sex tourism Thanet noted that only those who have not visited Pattaya in over two decades still hold an outdated perception of nightlife and sex tourism. Frequent visitors and foreign travel agents recognize the city’s broader range of tourism offerings. Morrakot Kuldilok, President of the Eastern Chapter of the Thai Hotels Association and an executive of the federation, acknowledged that prostitution still exists. She suggested that local government officials should regulate the industry and provide welfare measures to protect sex workers. Given recent reports of illegal gambling near Pattaya Soi 6, Morrakot proposed establishing a legal casino operation to address the issue in Pattaya and other areas with similar activities. The ACTF also suggested that Pattaya could become Thailand’s first casino city as part of their proposal. Other areas requiring improvement include safety, cleanliness, public infrastructure, sustainability, and city zoning regulations, which need government support. Thanet pointed out that Pattaya’s zoning regulations have not been properly updated, leading to nightlife venues being mixed with hotels and residences. This mix can make some family tourists feel unsafe, reported Bangkok Post. For the upcoming high season, Thanet estimated that tourism revenue in Pattaya should recover to over 80% of the 2019 level. However, challenges remain due to Thai tourists flocking to overseas destinations and rising competition from places like Vietnam and Hainan Island in China. Picture of Pattaya Walking Street courtesy of p-thailand.co.il by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of tripadvisor Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-05 - 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

Thai transwoman nabbed in 26 million baht scam targeting Japanese nationals by Petch Petpailin Photo via KhaoSod Metropolitan Police Bureau officers arrested a Thai transwoman yesterday after she scammed 73 Japanese nationals over a ten-year period. The total losses amounted to nearly 26 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334644-thai-transwoman-nabbed-in-26-million-baht-scam-targeting-japanese-nationals/

Metropolitan Police Bureau officers arrested a Thai transwoman yesterday after she scammed 73 Japanese nationals over a ten-year period. The total losses amounted to nearly 26 million baht. The 49 year old Thai transwoman, Uthai “Amy” Nantakhan, was arrested yesterday, August 4, at her condominium in the Bangkapi district of Bangkok. Her arrest followed a report from the latest Japanese victim who lost 15 million baht to Amy. The 36 year old Japanese man told Thonglor Police Station officers that he met Amy in January. Amy claimed to be from Hong Kong and asked him to support her hotel stay. The two stayed in touch and later began a relationship. Amy then tricked him into buying gold for her, which she exchanged for cash before disappearing. Further investigation revealed the Japanese man was not Amy’s only victim. She had swindled money from many Japanese victims using a similar plot. Amy pretended to be a Hong Kong resident and gained sympathy with various lies. For example, she would claim to have lost her wallet and need money for passport renewal, or feign a Covid-19 infection to solicit funds for treatment. Amy also scammed victims by luring them into investing in a fake business, later claiming the project failed and her bank account was frozen. Police reported that Amy had scammed 73 Japanese victims between 2011 and 2024, with total losses of 26 million baht: 25 victims with 942,000 baht reported in 2011 9 victims with 2.2 million baht reported in 2012 16 victims with 1.6 million baht reported in 2014 2 victims with 330,000 baht reported in 2015 8 victims with 307,000 baht reported in 2018 6 victims with 293,000 baht reported in 2020 3 victims with 90,000 baht reported in 2022 1 victim with 16 million baht reported in 2023 3 victims with 4.1 million baht reported in 2024 Amy was charged under Section 341 of the Criminal Law: committing fraud. The penalty is imprisonment of up to three years, a fine of up to 60,000 baht, or both. In a related report, a Japanese man was arrested on July 30 after he attempted to sexually assault a drunk Thai woman. The Japanese man approached the woman while she was sitting in the Royal City Avenue (RCA) car park and attempted to take her to his hotel room, but the woman managed to escape from him and reported the matter to the police. by Petch Petpailin Photo via KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-05 - 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

Rayong residents call for construction permit verification by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Builder Residents of Ban Khai district in Rayong are urging government officials to verify whether the owner of a local construction project possesses the necessary permits. Concerns were sparked after a Chinese language poster was seen at a construction site for a factory within their community. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334627-villagers-raise-alarm-over-unauthorised-chinese-signs-and-materials/?do=findComment&comment=19120671

Rayong residents call for construction permit verification by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Builder Residents of Ban Khai district in Rayong are urging government officials to verify whether the owner of a local construction project possesses the necessary permits. Concerns were sparked after a Chinese language poster was seen at a construction site for a factory within their community. Adul Akkaraphetpaisarn, an assistant village head, expressed that the village had not been informed of any construction activities. He emphasised that project owners are required to notify officials before starting work to ensure a community hearing and compliance with other regulations. Reports indicate that vehicles and construction materials have been spotted at the site, along with a poster depicting a factory in Chinese. This has raised suspicions among the locals about the legitimacy of the project, reported Bangkok Post. Sujin Sukkerd, chair of the Nong Wua TAO, stated that erecting buildings without the appropriate permit is illegal. He warned that legal action would be taken against the owner if they failed to adhere to the rules. “I’ve heard the poster was removed, but we’ll still examine the site.” In related news, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin led a delegation to Rayong and Chon Buri in June, to inspect pivotal projects within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). At Rayong’s U-Tapao International Airport, PM Srettha scrutinised the progress of an ambitious project aimed at linking the airport with a high-speed rail network that will connect three major airports. “This network is set to revolutionise transportation from Bangkok’s eastern outskirts to the city centre, turbocharging economic growth, trade, and tourism across the EEC.” The Bangkok-born PM pressed the Ministry of Transport and the Eastern Economic Corridor Office (EECO) to hasten construction, pledging to provide detailed updates on the rail project by the end of July. The next stop was Chon Buri, where the prime minister, alongside Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, evaluated plans for a Formula 1 racing route at Jomtien Beach. The government aims to lure international tourists by hosting F1 races starting in 2028, with the potential for Formula E events as well. Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-05 - 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

Ministry serves up a vote: Help ‘dish’ out Thailand’s best local eats by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Tourism Authority of Thailand The Ministry of Culture has called upon the public to vote for Thailand’s best local food in a new initiative aimed at preserving and promoting indigenous cuisine while boosting its economic value. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334643-ministry-serves-up-a-vote-help-‘dish’-out-thailand’s-best-local-eats/

The Ministry of Culture has called upon the public to vote for Thailand’s best local food in a new initiative aimed at preserving and promoting indigenous cuisine while boosting its economic value. Culture Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol announced yesterday, August 4, that the nation’s culinary heritage is a significant cultural asset that embodies Thai identity. The ministry launched the Thailand Best Local Food: The Lost Taste project for the 2024 fiscal year to align with the government’s policy of enhancing Thailand’s soft power. The initiative seeks to showcase local dishes from all 77 provinces, under the theme: One Province, One Menu, Celebrating Local Recipes. Each province has already submitted its signature dishes for consideration. Selected by provincial food committees, these dishes—whether savoury, sweet, or snacks—are distinguished by their uniqueness and are at risk of vanishing. They have been chosen for their need for protection and restoration, said Sudawan. “Many dishes today are available only in local communities and are at risk of being forgotten. They reflect a valuable connection between people and local ingredients under cultural diversity and biodiversity.” Each dish must meet six criteria: historical wisdom and unique culinary value, conservation value, indigenous ingredients, potential for dissemination and economic development, nutritious value, and environmental value. The public is encouraged to vote for the provincial dish they believe deserves recognition as the best local dish. Voting is accessible via the provincial cultural office’s Facebook page. Residents in Bangkok can cast their votes through the Department of Cultural Promotion’s Facebook page or by visiting forms.gle/gJkno9mpJMEBTYAWA until 4.30pm on Friday, August 9, reported Bangkok Post. In related news, the Culture Ministry voiced its intentions of capitalising on the increased popularity of Thai locations, brought on by their appearance in the latest Korean television series, King the Land. Recognising this upswing in interest, the ministry plans to attract more Korean tourists and fans of the drama to these specific sites, boosting Thai tourism. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Tourism Authority of Thailand Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-05 - 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

Thailand 10,000-Baht Digital Scheme to Proceed Amid PM Legal Challenge Srettha Thavisin. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia The Government of Thailand confirmed that the 10,000-baht digital handout scheme will continue regardless of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s political future. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334642-thailand-10000-baht-digital-scheme-to-proceed-amid-pm-legal-challenge/

The Government of Thailand confirmed that the 10,000-baht digital handout scheme will continue regardless of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s political future. This assurance follows concerns over the PM’s potential dismissal due to a legal challenge. Prime Minister Srettha, aged 62, is under scrutiny because 40 senators submitted a motion against him. They argue that his appointment of Pichit Chuenban, an ex-convict, as a PM’s Office Minister violates the constitution. Pichit was convicted of contempt of court in 2008 while representing former PM Thaksin Shinawatra in a contentious land case. Despite the possibility of his dismissal, Srettha and PM’s Office Minister Jiraporn Sindhuprai reassured the public that the digital handout scheme would proceed as planned. The Constitutional Court’s decision on the PM’s tenure is expected tomorrow. Bangkok-born Srettha urged the public not to be swayed by rumours, emphasising the continuity of the digital handout scheme. “Those still harbouring doubts about this stimulus programme should seek information through the 1111 hotline, rather than believe circulating online rumours,” he stated. Srettha also requested the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) to tackle the spread of false information related to the scheme. Jiraporn, also a Deputy Leader of the Pheu Thai Party, expressed confidence in the PM’s position and reiterated that the policy would proceed regardless of the court’s decision. She highlighted the House’s recent approval of an additional 122 billion baht in the current fiscal year’s budget to partially fund the handout scheme. “Pheu Thai isn’t preparing to replace Srettha. The party is focusing on implementing policies, particularly the digital handout scheme, to help people with their current problems,” Jiraporn stated. Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai postponed the registration of shops interested in participating in the digital handout scheme, initially scheduled to begin today. He stated the government needs to prioritise registering other eligible recipients. The 10,000-baht digital money handout aims to provide financial relief to citizens facing economic challenges. It is part of the government’s broader efforts to stimulate the economy and support those in need. Despite the political turmoil, officials remain committed to rolling out the scheme as planned. Srettha Thavisin. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-08-05 - 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

UPDATE: Pattaya Police Seek to Expel Kuwaiti Nationals Involved in Recent Violence with Locals By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — Pattaya Police launched an investigation following a violent, massive clash between Thai and Kuwaiti nationals on Soi Yensabai this weekend. The Kuwaiti suspects will potentially be deported from Thailand after facing legal charges, police said. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334639-pattaya-police-seek-to-expel-kuwaiti-nationals-involved-in-recent-violence-with-locals/

Pattaya — Pattaya Police launched an investigation following a violent, massive clash between Thai and Kuwaiti nationals on Soi Yensabai this weekend. The Kuwaiti suspects will potentially be deported from Thailand after facing legal charges, police said. The investigation was spearheaded by Pol. Lt. Col. Sirach Nuethes, Deputy Commander of Pattaya Police Station, along with Pol. Lt. Col. Piyapong Ensarn, Superintendent of Tourist Police Division 4. The officers led a team of over 50 officers to inspect Soi Yensabai around the late afternoon of August 3rd, 2024. They also discussed with representatives of the Kuwaiti students involved in the incident to inform them of the Thai laws, regulations during their stay, and the incident’s legal consequences. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-08-05 - 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

Government Takes Bold Steps Against Illegal Migrant Workers Picture courtesy: NNT In a decisive move, the government has ramped up its efforts to curb illegal immigration, targeting migrant workers and their employers across the nation. Over the past two months, authorities have detained 1,179 individuals who were found working without proper documentation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334635-government-takes-bold-steps-against-illegal-migrant-workers/

In a decisive move, the government has ramped up its efforts to curb illegal immigration, targeting migrant workers and their employers across the nation. Over the past two months, authorities have detained 1,179 individuals who were found working without proper documentation. This represents a small fraction, less than 1%, of the 162,130 workers whose credentials were scrutinised at 12,983 workplaces from early June to August. The crackdown has not only highlighted the scale of illegal work but also the need for stringent enforcement of immigration laws. Out of the workplaces inspected, 438, or approximately 3.3%, were found to have violations. This underscores the pervasive nature of the issue. Migrant workers caught without proper permits face substantial penalties. They can be fined between 500 baht and 5,000 baht, deported, and banned from reapplying for work permits for up to two years. On the other side, employers who hire illegal migrants or assign legal workers to unauthorised jobs could be slapped with fines ranging from 1,000 baht to 10,000 baht per worker. Repeat offenders might even face up to a year's imprisonment, fines of 5,000 baht to 20,000 baht per employee, and a three-year ban on employing new migrant workers. The detained workers hail from a variety of countries. The majority, 724, are from Myanmar, followed by 190 from Cambodia, 162 from Laos, 22 from Vietnam, and 81 from other nations. The crackdown involves coordination among various government agencies, reflecting the administration's commitment to bringing order to the labour market. This initiative is part of broader efforts aimed at ensuring that all workers in Thailand are employed legally and treated fairly. The government hopes that stringent action will deter future violations and maintain a balanced and lawful job market. The move also aims to protect the rights of all workers and ensure that employers adhere strictly to legal hiring practices. Picture courtesy: NNT -- 2024-08-05 - 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

Police seize 45,000 bottles in counterfeit cough syrup raid by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police raided a major counterfeit cough syrup factory, seizing over 45,000 bottles valued at more than 50 million baht (US$ 1.4 million). The factory, producing up to 20,000 bottles daily, distributed the fake medication popular among youths seeking intoxication. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334634-police-seize-45000-bottles-in-counterfeit-cough-syrup-raid/

Police raided a major counterfeit cough syrup factory, seizing over 45,000 bottles valued at more than 50 million baht (US$ 1.4 million). The factory, producing up to 20,000 bottles daily, distributed the fake medication popular among youths seeking intoxication. Police Major General Wittaya Sriprasertphap, along with Deputy Commander Anuwat Raksacharoen and Colonel Weerapong Klaitong from the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD), coordinated with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Samut Sakhon Provincial Public Health Office. They executed search warrants at three factory locations in Samut Sakhon, uncovering a substantial counterfeit operation. The seized items included 45,600 bottles of fake cough syrup branded as Datisin, along with raw materials, production equipment, and packaging supplies. Wichai explained that police had been tipped off about illegal production activities in Samut Sakhon. For approximately two months, the factory had been manufacturing around 20,000 bottles of counterfeit cough syrup daily. The products were then stored in a warehouse in Krathum Baen District and frequently relocated to evade detection, using fruit boxes as a cover for transportation. The police executed a search warrant in Don Kai Dee Subdistrict, Krathum Baen District, where they confiscated 15,000 bottles of Datisin, with an additional 4,000 bottles in the process of being filled. Subsequent searches in two more locations in Don Kai Dee and Tha Sai Subdistricts resulted in the seizure of 3,600 and 27,000 bottles, respectively. Investigations revealed that the factory owner was contracted by a counterfeit cough syrup network operating in Pathum Thani and Nonthaburi. The network had been previously targeted by CPPD police in April, leading to arrests and seizures. The confiscated items have been handed over to CPPD investigators, and warrants have been issued for the factory owner. Charges include manufacturing drugs without a licence, carrying a penalty of up to five years in prison and a fine not exceeding 10,000 baht (US$280), and producing and selling counterfeit drugs, punishable by three years to life imprisonment and fines ranging from 10,000 to 50,000 baht (US$280 to US$1,415). Counterfeit drugs Aranya Theppitak, Director of the Centre for Complaints and Health Product Suppression (CCHPS), expressed gratitude to CPPD for their thorough investigation that led to the arrests. The FDA has implemented measures to monitor and regulate the production and distribution of high-risk cough syrups, particularly due to their misuse by youths for intoxication. Thanks to the continuous efforts of the police, several arrests have been made for the illicit production and sale of counterfeit medicinal syrups, Aranya stated, reported KhaoSod. Aranya highlighted that these counterfeit products are often sold both online and in general pharmacies, posing significant health risks. “Besides facing stringent legal repercussions, manufacturers caught producing fake medications will have their licences suspended and be prohibited from producing or selling drugs.” by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-05 - 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

Thailand Live Monday 5 August 2024 - All news in one click Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334630-thailand-live-monday-5-august-2024-all-news-in-one-click/

A 10-year plan to boost healthcare workers will be submitted to the cabinet tomorrow. The ministry aims to increase graduate doctors, nurses, pharmacists, traditional medicine practitioners, and public health workers. Thailand currently has 71,616 doctors and 209,187 nurses. The health department says: Addressing the shortage is crucial for supporting universal healthcare and the government's goal of making Thailand a wellness and medical destination. Thailand's bid for a UN Human Rights Council seat in October could be at risk if the Constitutional Court dissolves the Move Forward party on Wednesday. In September, Thailand will host a symposium for the Association of Asian Constitutional Courts with representatives from 19 countries. A Progressive Movement member questioned how the court's president would address concerns if the Move Forward party is dissolved. In the southern province of Yala yesterday, a roadside explosive device killed a paramilitary ranger and injured six others. Reinforcements were dispatched to take the dead and injured to Hospital. The explosion site and nearby areas were cordoned off while a bomb disposal squad searched for additional devices. Two passengers, one Dutch and one Chinese, were injured when a ceiling panel fell at Chiang Mai Airport on Saturday morning. Thai officials apologized and assured full care for the injured. The Dutch boy and his family continued their journey to Don Mueang, while the Chinese passenger, who suffered a 5-centimeter head wound, later took a flight to the south. Around the region North Korean leader Kim Jong Un oversaw the delivery of a new tactical ballistic missile system to troops yesterday In Pyongyang. Kim unveiled 250 new missile launchers, described by state media as a powerful, modern tactical weapon personally designed by Kim. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Thunderstorms 31C degrees celsius Bangkok: Cloudy with some Thundershowers 33 Pattaya: Cloudy with showers 32 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 2024-08-05 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Former Dutch Soldier Arrested for Drug-Making in Pattaya Picture courtesy: Khaosod At 17:36 on August 4, 2024, local police in Pattaya arrested a 63-year-old former Dutch soldier, Simon Leonardus Petrus Sjerps., on suspicion of drug possession and production in a condominium on the city's outskirts. The arrest ensued after officers from Pattaya City Police Station noticed Mr. Sjerps displaying suspicious behaviour. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334629-former-dutch-soldier-arrested-for-drug-making-in-pattaya/

At 17:36 on August 4, 2024, local police in Pattaya arrested a 63-year-old former Dutch soldier, Simon Leonardus Petrus Sjerps., on suspicion of drug possession and production in a condominium on the city's outskirts. The arrest ensued after officers from Pattaya City Police Station noticed Mr. Sjerps displaying suspicious behaviour. Following a search of his room, authorities discovered a small drug production setup, including narcotics, production equipment, and various chemicals. Among the seized items were Category 1 narcotics (commonly known as ice or crystal meth), a 5-kilogram picnic gas stove, a stainless steel bowl, a glass stirring rod, and various liquids presumed to be drug precursors. Additionally, authorities found 120 Euros and 56,500 Baht in cash reported Khaosod. Mr. Sjerps, a former Dutch soldier, initially tried to evade police scrutiny by hiding two clear plastic bags of crystal meth on his person. Further investigation led to the discovery of more elaborate drug-production equipment in his condominium. In his possession were substances and equipment, such as sodium hydroxide and jelly candies, allegedly used to create date rape drugs. Interestingly, Mr. Sjerps confessed to using crystal meth but claimed he did not dare to use his homemade concoctions. The police seized both the drugs and equipment for further examination. This bust in Nongprue Subdistrict, Banglamung District, Chonburi Province, has significant implications. The suspect admitted guilt in using crystal meth, but further scrutiny is needed to determine the full extent of his drug-making operations and their intended purpose. Authorities are continuing their investigation to trace the origins of the narcotics and chemicals. Mr. Sjerps faces charges of possession and use of Category 1 narcotics. Should further illegal activities be uncovered during the investigation, additional charges will be forthcoming. The case highlights the ongoing issues of drug misuse and production within Pattaya, prompting enhanced vigilance and law enforcement efforts. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-08-05 - 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

Foreign Woman Found Dead Near Khao Yai: Police Suspect Murder In a shocking incident, a woman believed to be a foreigner was found dead with a gunshot wound to her temple near the Khao Yai route in Nakhon Ratchasima Province. The authorities are investigating the gruesome discovery, which has left the local community in shock. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334628-foreign-woman-found-dead-near-khao-yai-police-suspect-murder/

In a shocking incident, a woman believed to be a foreigner was found dead with a gunshot wound to her temple near the Khao Yai route in Nakhon Ratchasima Province. The authorities are investigating the gruesome discovery, which has left the local community in shock. The Discovery On August 4th, Second Lieutenant Kritchit Pinij from Pak Chong Police Station responded to a report about a woman's body found in a thicket beside Thanarat Road, near the entrance to Khao Yai National Park. The scene was about 200 meters from Thanarat Road, in Nong Nam Daeng Subdistrict of Pak Chong District. The police, accompanied by the Sawang Wicha Tham Pak Chong Rescue Unit, promptly arrived at the scene. Initial Findings Upon inspection, it was discovered that the woman had been shot in the right temple, with the bullet exiting through the left side. Initial estimates suggest she had been dead for more than eight hours. Officers found a bullet casing and a locally-made .38 pistol near the body. Additionally, a brown Louis Vuitton-patterned suitcase was discovered at the scene. A copy of an ID card bearing the name Ms. Netnapha, aged 34, was found in the suitcase. There was also a Sor Por Kor document and a high school diploma from a local school, indicating the woman's possible identity. However, the police have yet to confirm if the documents match the deceased. Witness Accounts Local residents reported seeing a woman wandering near the area early in the morning and noticed a sedan car parked nearby. It is unclear if these sightings are related to the case. Ongoing Investigation Forensic officers and medical staff from Pakchong Nana Hospital arrived to gather evidence and transported the body for an autopsy at Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital. Superintendent Pol. Col. Wiraphon Rabiabpho stated that the motive for the murder remains uncertain. The police are awaiting forensic results and conducting further investigations to gather more evidence. The case has raised alarm among locals and draws attention to the importance of swiftly addressing such heinous acts. Police efforts are intensifying to piece together the events leading up to this tragic incident. -- 2024-08-05 - 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