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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

Villagers Raise Alarm Over Unauthorised Chinese Signs and Materials Chinese sign. Picture courtesy: Daily News Residents of Nong Bua Subdistrict in Rayong have raised concerns after spotting Chinese language signs and construction materials in their area. Amid fears of a factory being built without proper permissions, villagers and local leaders are calling for immediate scrutiny. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334627-villagers-raise-alarm-over-unauthorised-chinese-signs-and-materials/

Residents of Nong Bua Subdistrict in Rayong have raised concerns after spotting Chinese language signs and construction materials in their area. Amid fears of a factory being built without proper permissions, villagers and local leaders are calling for immediate scrutiny. Early this week, villagers from Village No. 11 in the Nong Bua Subdistrict, Ban Khai District, Rayong Province, reported an unexpected sight: a large sign in Chinese, suggesting the construction of a facility. The sign was planted in a freshly filled plot, surrounded by machinery and construction materials. This discovery has sparked significant unrest among locals. Mr. Adun, the assistant village headman of Village No. 11, expressed confusion over the sign. He noted that, according to village protocol, any construction project should be preceded by a village assembly meeting and necessary approvals from the Nong Bua Subdistrict Administrative Organization (SAO). No such approval had been requested or granted, marking a blatant violation of community rules, reported Daily News. Tracking the issue further, Mr. Traiphop Banthoengsuk, secretary of the SAO, said he was unaware of the situation but promised to investigate the matter promptly. In a proactive response, he plans to coordinate with relevant parties to ensure an on-site inspection on August 5. Mr. Suchin Sukkerd, Mayor of the Nong Bua SAO, confirmed that the installation of such signs and construction materials without permission is strictly against regulations. He suspected that a Chinese investor might be behind these activities, aiming to bypass local rules. Such actions not only flout legal requirements but also pose significant risks of pollution and environmental damage. In light of these issues, the director of the Engineering Division has been instructed to investigate thoroughly. If any illegal activities are confirmed during the inspection, they will be reported to the police. As of the latest update, the controversial Chinese signs have been removed. The community remains vigilant, awaiting further resolutions and ensuring their local environment and regulations are respected. Chinese sign. Picture courtesy: Daily 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

Thailand Advances Toward Legalising Casinos to Boost Tourism Casino - Roulette. Picture courtesy: Ralf Roletschek, Wikipedia Thailand is moving forward with plans to legalise casinos, aiming to enhance its appeal as a top tourism destination and attract substantial foreign investment. The Council of State, the government’s legal agency, has released draft rules for public feedback. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334626-thailand-advances-toward-legalising-casinos-to-boost-tourism/

Thailand is moving forward with plans to legalise casinos, aiming to enhance its appeal as a top tourism destination and attract substantial foreign investment. The Council of State, the government’s legal agency, has released draft rules for public feedback. These rules propose a 30-year licence for casinos, with the possibility of a 10-year extension. These casinos would be part of expansive entertainment complexes, featuring hotels, convention centres, and amusement parks. The shift aligns Thailand with nations like Japan and the United Arab Emirates, which are keen to tap into the lucrative global casino market. This market generated $263 billion in revenue last year, according to IBIS World. Major industry players, including Galaxy Entertainment Group Ltd and MGM Resorts International, have shown interest in establishing casino resorts in Thailand. Las Vegas Sands Corp has also expressed willingness to expand into the Thai market if the opportunity arises, reported Bangkok Post. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who assumed office less than a year ago, is vigorously promoting policies to attract foreign investments. He supports the casino legalisation plan for its potential to ensure better oversight and tax revenue collection. Thailand's House of Representatives has endorsed a study advocating the establishment of legalised casinos within large entertainment venues to attract affluent tourists. The study projects a potential increase in tourism revenue by approximately 12 billion baht through legalising these casinos. Despite its majority Buddhist and traditionally conservative society, Thailand is gradually adopting a more liberal stance to revive its tourism sector, which was hit hard by the pandemic. In 2022, Thailand became the first Asian country to decriminalise cannabis and is on track to be the first in Southeast Asia to legalise same-sex marriages. The draft bill details that these entertainment venues should be situated in government-designated locations and managed by Thailand-registered companies with a minimum paid-up capital of 10 billion baht. Likely destinations for these complexes include Greater Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Chonburi's beach resort Pattaya. Tourism is critical to Thailand, accounting for about 20% of jobs and 12% of its $500 billion economy. This year, foreign arrivals surged by around 34% to over 20 million compared to the same period in 2023. Casino - Roulette. Picture courtesy: Ralf Roletschek, 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

Motorbike Rider Dies After Crash in Rassada, Phuket By Goongnang Suksawat Rassada – A motorbike rider was pronounced dead at the scene after he crashed his motorbike into a central reservation and a power pole in Rassada on Saturday (August 3rd). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334625-motorbike-rider-dies-after-crash-in-rassada-phuket/

Rassada – A motorbike rider was pronounced dead at the scene after he crashed his motorbike into a central reservation and a power pole in Rassada on Saturday (August 3rd). The Phuket City Police told the Phuket Express that they were notified of the accident at 1:50 A.M. on the Bypass Road (Chalerm Phrakiet Rama 9 Road) northbound in Sam Kong, Rassada. Emergency responders and the Phuket Express arrived at the scene to find the damaged motorbike on the road. Nearby, they found the damaged central reservation and the damaged power pole. The rider, Mr. Siwakorn Weerapong, 48, from Krabi, was found deceased. A broken helmet was also found at the scene. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 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

Train Crushes Unidentified Man Laying on Tracks in Pattaya By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A train crushed an unidentified man laying on a railway in Pattaya to death early Saturday morning, August 3rd, 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334624-train-crushes-unidentified-man-laying-on-tracks-in-pattaya/

Pattaya — A train crushed an unidentified man laying on a railway in Pattaya to death early Saturday morning, August 3rd, 2024. The incident occurred on the railway tracks in the Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. Emergency rescue personnel and police from the Banglamung Police Station responded to the scene at 02:46 AM after being notified of the horrific incident. Upon arrival, authorities found the body of an unidentified man, estimated to be between 30 and 40 years old, lying lifeless on the railway tracks. A 607 train, traveling from Map Ta Phut to Phawai Lopburi, was found stopped around 100 meters away from the crushed body. The train driver was waiting to provide a statement to the police. 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

Group of Teenagers Assaulted with Knives on Pattaya Beach, Two Teens Injured By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A birthday celebration at Pattaya Beach turned violent when a group of local teenagers armed with knives attacked two young teens, leaving one of them severely injured. The victims were only 17-years-old. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334623-group-of-teenagers-assaulted-with-knives-on-pattaya-beach-two-teens-injured/

Pattaya — A birthday celebration at Pattaya Beach turned violent when a group of local teenagers armed with knives attacked two young teens, leaving one of them severely injured. The victims were only 17-years-old. Pattaya Police Station was alerted to an assault involving knives at Pattaya Beach, between Soi 10 and 11, Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province, at 5 AM this morning, August 4th, 2024. Authorities swiftly responded to the scene, along with rescue personnel from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation. At the beach, authorities found a group of over ten young men and women in a state of panic. Two teenagers, whose ages were only 17-years-old, sustained injuries from a knife attack. One had severe cuts to his left arm, while another was slashed on his right arm. Rescue workers provided initial first aid, before transferring them to a local hospital. 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

Tourist injured in Chumphon resort balcony collapse by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Siamrath A man sustained serious injuries after the balcony he was on collapsed at a resort in Chumphon, leading to concerns about unlicensed accommodation and unresponsive local police. Only the local tourist police offered effective help. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334621-tourist-injured-in-chumphon-resort-balcony-collapse/

A man sustained serious injuries after the balcony he was on collapsed at a resort in Chumphon, leading to concerns about unlicensed accommodation and unresponsive local police. Only the local tourist police offered effective help. On July 27, Yanisa, a 46 year old woman from Phetchaburi, and her husband, 44 year old Piyapol, along with friends, were staying at a resort in Pathio District, Chumphon. The resort featured a balcony extending towards the sea, which was a popular spot for guests to relax and take photos. In the evening, while taking photos, the balcony suddenly collapsed from a height of 3 to 4 metres, injuring three people. Piyapol was among the injured, suffering a broken arm, fractured jaw, cracked skull, broken nasal structure, and severe facial lacerations requiring multiple stitches. He was immediately taken to Pathio Hospital for treatment. Janisa reported that no police officers arrived at the scene on the day of the incident. The resort owner quickly refunded their accommodation costs and visited them once, promising to cover all hospital expenses. However, apart from a bottle of milk and a meal, no further assistance was provided. When Yanisa requested the resort owner to officially acknowledge the incident at the Pathio Police Station, she was told it was unnecessary as verbal agreements were sufficient. The owner asked for a settlement amount, to which Yanisa suggested 70,000 baht (US$2,000), but no agreement was reached. The resort owner claimed to have connections with local police and hospital staff, which made Yanisa feel unsafe. Yanisa sought help from the tourist police, who tried to mediate by contacting the resort owner, but their calls were ignored. Later, the resort owner claimed to be threatened by the police, which Yanisa denied as no calls were answered. Balcony collapse The Tourist Police accompanied Yanisa to the Pathio Police Station to file a report and seek mediation. However, the local police showed no interest in assisting them. A local officer privately spoke with the Tourist Police and then refused to help Yanisa, suggesting she hire a lawyer. The officer also stated that only the injured party, not the spouse, could file a complaint, and even then, the resort owner could not be forced to participate in mediation. Subsequently, the Chumphon tourist police checked the resort’s licence under the Hotel Act of 2004 but found it was operating without one. They filed a complaint against the resort owner for running an unlicensed hotel and discovered that the balcony’s structural defects caused the accident, reported KhaoSod. Yanisa expressed her unease due to the resort owner’s claims of knowing police and hospital staff and feeling unsafe as a tourist. She decided to move her husband to a hospital in Phetchaburi for further treatment, despite being satisfied with the care at Chumphon Hospital, as she couldn’t determine who might be influenced by the resort owner. She thanked the Chumphon and Ranong tourist police for their invaluable assistance. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Siamrath 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

Foreign fortune-teller harasses Thai women for money by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of ch3plus A foreign fortune-teller has been making a nuisance of himself, persistently approaching Thai women to offer dubious fortune-telling services in exchange for money. The incidents have been reported around Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat in Bang Si Mueang, Nonthaburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334620-foreign-fortune-teller-harasses-thai-women-for-money/

A foreign fortune-teller has been making a nuisance of himself, persistently approaching Thai women to offer dubious fortune-telling services in exchange for money. The incidents have been reported around Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat in Bang Si Mueang, Nonthaburi. Panjarat Limthongcharoen, the 30 year old owner of the Kumati smoothie shop, shared her unsettling experience. Yesterday, August 3, while she was at her shop with her younger brother, a tall man of foreign descent, resembling an Indian national, walked in around 1.40pm. He approached Panjarat, handed her an envelope requesting 199 baht (US$5.6), and claimed he would tell her fortune. He incorrectly predicted that she would have two lovers simultaneously, mistaking her brother for one of them. This inaccurate and intrusive fortune-telling left Panjarat feeling deeply uncomfortable. “I have a boyfriend and have never been unfaithful. To suggest otherwise, especially by mistaking my brother for a lover, was very upsetting,” Panjarat said, recounting her irritation. She refused the fortune-telling service, prompting the man to insist she give him her hand for a palm reading. When she declined again, he began accusing her of being dishonest and a bad person. Feeling increasingly threatened, Panjarat eventually gave him 20 baht to leave, but he reacted with visible displeasure, continuing to berate her until she forced him out of the shop. Following this incident, Panjarat observed the man entering a nearby shop selling religious items, as well as approaching people parking their motorcycles on the street. He persistently offered his services, only to be repeatedly turned down. Panjarat took to social media to share her experience, and several others came forward, recounting similar encounters where they had been pressured into paying significant amounts for his services, reported KhaoSod. One concerned individual remarked, “I was duped into paying thousands for a ritual to ward off bad luck. Fortunately, Panjarat realised something was off when he mistook her brother for a lover. Panjarat expressed relief that her brother was present during the incident, fearing what might have happened had she been alone. She firmly believes that the fortune-teller harbours malicious intentions. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of ch3plus 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

PM Srettha orders Temu to comply with Thai tax laws by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Thairath money Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin directed the Revenue Department and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES) to ensure the new Chinese online retailer Temu adheres to Thai regulations and meets tax obligations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334619-pm-srettha-orders-temu-to-comply-with-thai-tax-laws/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin directed the Revenue Department and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES) to ensure the new Chinese online retailer Temu adheres to Thai regulations and meets tax obligations. The directive aims to address concerns from local industries about the potential influx of inexpensive Chinese products affecting Thai manufacturers. The introduction of Temu, a Chinese e-commerce platform, raised alarms due to its strategy of luring customers with discounts of up to 90% on various items. Local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) fear this could severely impact their businesses. According to the Thai premier, all companies operating in Thailand must comply with tax laws, and it is the responsibility of state agencies to enforce this compliance. The 62 year old Thai prime minister emphasised the critical nature of this issue, highlighting the need for the government to be proactive in safeguarding local SMEs. “The government must ensure every business in Thailand meets its tax obligations.” Srettha added that discussions are ongoing regarding tighter import regulations. These measures may include imposing a value-added tax on imported goods priced below 1,500 baht (US$40), reported Bangkok Post. Pawoot Pongvitayapanu, honorary president of the Thai E-commerce Association, echoed these concerns, urging the government to strengthen actions against illegal cross-border goods and enforce stricter import standards. He stressed that such measures are essential to maintain fairness for Thai SMEs. In related news, the Thai e-commerce landscape is about to face a major upheaval, warns Pawoot Pongvitayapanu, CEO of Creden.co and PaySolutions. Speaking on Krungthep Turakij’s Deep Talk programme, Pawoot cautioned that the arrival of the Chinese online retail giant Temu could spell trouble for local retailers already battling fierce competition. Pawoot highlighted that while Thai consumers are already familiar with cheap Chinese goods via platforms like Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop, Temu’s direct-to-consumer model presents a new level of disruption. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Thairath money 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