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Rain check: Thailand provinces brace for a flood of trouble by Nattapong Westwood File photo Weather conditions across Thailand prompted warnings for heavy rain and potential flash floods in 10 provinces, with Bangkok experiencing morning fog and a minimum temperature of 24 degrees Celsius. T Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345494-rain-check-thailand-provinces-brace-for-a-flood-of-trouble/

File photo by Nattapong Westwood Weather conditions across Thailand prompted warnings for heavy rain and potential flash floods in 10 provinces, with Bangkok experiencing morning fog and a minimum temperature of 24 degrees Celsius. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) reported that the northeast monsoon, covering the Gulf of Thailand and the southern region, has weakened. Meanwhile, a low-pressure area near the Strait of Malacca is expected to move towards Sumatra, resulting in reduced rainfall in the lower south but maintaining heavy showers in certain areas. Residents in these regions are advised to stay alert to the dangers of heavy rain and accumulated precipitation. The weather conditions could lead to sudden flooding, forest runoff, and overflowing rivers, especially in hilly areas near waterways and low-lying regions. Additionally, the southern Gulf of Thailand is experiencing waves of 1 to 2 meters, with even higher waves during thunderstorms. As a precaution, sailors in these areas are advised to avoid navigating during stormy conditions. High-pressure systems or cold air masses covering northern Thailand are weakening, leading to morning fog, especially in the northern and northeastern regions. Despite this, these areas will continue to experience cool morning temperatures. On the mountain peaks and plateaus, temperatures are expected to be cold to very cold, ranging from 10 to 17 degrees Celsius. Residents are encouraged to maintain their health amid changing weather conditions and be cautious of fire hazards due to the dry weather. Travellers should also be vigilant when passing through foggy areas. Air pollution levels in northern Thailand are on the rise, with dust and haze increasing from moderate to high levels due to the weakened winds over the region. The weather forecast for Thailand, from today until tomorrow morning, indicates that the northern region will have cool weather with morning fog, a slight increase in temperature, and isolated light rain. Weather forecast The minimum temperatures are expected to range from 20 to 22 degrees Celsius, with maximums between 32 and 35 degrees Celsius. Winds from the east are forecasted to blow at speeds of 5 to 15 kilometres per hour. In the northeastern region, cool weather with light morning fog is expected, along with a slight increase in temperature. Minimum temperatures will range from 18 to 21 degrees Celsius, with maximums from 32 to 33 degrees Celsius. Mountain areas will experience cold to very cold conditions, with minimum temperatures between 12 and 17 degrees Celsius. Northeasterly winds are expected to blow at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The central region is expected to have light fog in the morning with a slight increase in temperature. The minimum temperatures will range from 22 to 24 degrees Celsius, with maximums from 33 to 35 degrees Celsius. Northeasterly winds will blow at speeds of 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. In eastern Thailand, light morning fog and a slight temperature rise are expected, with minimum temperatures between 21 and 25 degrees Celsius and maximums from 33 to 35 degrees Celsius. Northeasterly winds will blow at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour, with sea waves below 1 meter and approximately 1 metre offshore. The southern region on the east coast will see thunderstorms covering 40% of the area, with heavy rain in provinces such as Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Minimum temperatures will range from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, with maximums from 30 to 34 degrees Celsius. In Nakhon Si Thammarat and further north, northeasterly winds will blow at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour, with sea waves approximately 1 metre high, rising to 1 to 2 meters during thunderstorms. In Songkhla and further south, winds will blow at 15 to 35 kilometres per hour, with sea waves of 1 to 2 meters and higher during storms. The southern region on the west coast will have thunderstorms covering 30% of the area, with heavy rain in provinces such as Krabi, Trang, and Satun. Minimum temperatures will range from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, with maximums from 31 to 33 degrees Celsius. Easterly winds will blow at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour, with sea waves approximately 1 metre high, rising to over 2 meters during thunderstorms, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and its surrounding areas will experience light morning fog with a slight increase in temperature. The minimum temperatures will range from 24 to 25 degrees Celsius, with maximums from 33 to 36 degrees Celsius. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-06

New M9 motorway to connect Bangkok districts in 2029 by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Money and Banking The Cabinet has given the green light for a significant new infrastructure project: a 35-kilometre M9 motorway aiming to connect Bangkok’s Bang Khunthian district with Bang Bua Thong district in Nonthaburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345482-new-m9-motorway-to-connect-bangkok-districts-in-2029/

Picture courtesy of Money and Banking by Bright Choomanee The Cabinet has given the green light for a significant new infrastructure project: a 35-kilometre M9 motorway aiming to connect Bangkok’s Bang Khunthian district with Bang Bua Thong district in Nonthaburi. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit announced this development, highlighting its potential to alleviate traffic congestion on Kanchanaphisek Road’s western side and enhance connectivity with Bangkok’s network of outer ring roads. Advertisements This ambitious undertaking involves a substantial 47.5 billion baht (US$1.4 billion)investment through a public-private partnership (PPP) model. The chosen investment format, known as PPP Net Cost, allows the selected private partner—determined through a bidding process—to invest primarily in the motorway’s construction. In return, the partner will have the right to collect toll fees for three decades following the motorway’s opening, projected to occur in about four years. The bidding process is expected to commence late next year, with the contract anticipated to be signed in the latter half of 2026. The motorway is slated for completion and opening in 2029. The government plans to share the financial burden of both land expropriation, estimated at 4.25 billion baht (US$124 million), and the construction costs with the private partner. Approximately 33 rai of land will need to be expropriated for this project. The government has committed to contributing its share of the investment through annual instalments over at least 15 years from the M9 motorway’s opening. Designed with six lanes, the M9 will feature eight entrances, six exits, and five separated intersections. An automatic toll collection system will be in place to streamline operations and enhance user experience. For four-wheeled vehicles, the initial toll will be set at 10 baht (US$0.3), with an additional charge of 1.5 baht (US$0.04) per kilometre. Six-wheeled trucks will incur a starting fee of 15 baht (US$0.4) and 2.40 baht (US$0.07) per kilometre thereafter. Vehicles larger than six-wheeled trucks will face a starting fee of 25 baht (US$0.7) and 3.45 baht (US$0.1) per kilometre. These toll rates are subject to review and potential adjustment every five years, reported Bangkok Post. The motorway project is expected to yield significant economic benefits by reducing transport and logistical costs, shortening travel times, and fostering economic growth. It will support the expansion of the manufacturing sector and generate employment opportunities, contributing positively to the region’s economy. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-06

Over 1,000 detained in Thai nominee crackdown on foreign businesses by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Wassayos Ngamkham Police intensified their crackdown on the use of Thai nominees by foreign businesses, resulting in the detention of over 1,000 individuals over recent weeks. This sweeping operation was a joint effort by police and the Ministry of Commerce, targeting companies engaging in illicit business practices. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345481-over-1000-detained-in-thai-nominee-crackdown-on-foreign-businesses/

Picture courtesy of Wassayos Ngamkham by Bright Choomanee Police intensified their crackdown on the use of Thai nominees by foreign businesses, resulting in the detention of over 1,000 individuals over recent weeks. This sweeping operation was a joint effort by police and the Ministry of Commerce, targeting companies engaging in illicit business practices. Investigations focused on 442 companies, collectively handling over 3.6 billion baht (US$105 million), across 46 locations nationwide. The Central Investigation Bureau’s (CIB) commissioner, Jirabhop Bhuridej, highlighted the scale of the operation, emphasising the collaboration with the Department of Business Development (DBD) within the Ministry of Commerce. Among those detained were: 714 Thais 258 Chinese 21 Malaysians 4 Cambodians 4 Vietnamese 3 Britons 3 Germans 2 Japanese 2 Myanmar nationals 1 American 1 Singaporean 1 Kazakhstani These individuals were implicated in businesses registered by Thais acting as proxies for foreign nationals, despite restrictions that reserve certain business activities for Thai citizens. “The businesses involved held assets worth 254 million baht (US$7.4 million), and investigations revealed they employed law or accounting firms to manage their registrations,” explained Jirabhop. This elaborate setup was part of a broader scheme where some companies were merely fronts for laundering money, without engaging in legitimate business operations. Further inquiries uncovered warehouses filled with goods, many of which were prohibited from import. Some businesses were linked to currency trading, adding another layer of complexity to the investigation. Napintorn Srisanpang, Deputy Commerce Minister, noted the operation stemmed from an agreement between the police and the DBD to scrutinize Thai nominees. He called upon Thai citizens to act as proxies to cooperate with police, allowing them to be treated as witnesses. Additionally, legal and accounting professionals found complicit in these activities will face scrutiny from their respective regulatory bodies, reported Bangkok Post. “The use of Thai proxies not only undermines the economy but poses a significant threat to national security,” stated Deputy Police Chief Thatchai Pitaneelabutr. He stressed the severity of the issue, particularly when these firms are linked to call centre scams or drug trafficking networks. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-06 -- 2024-12-06

Dual Pricing in Thai Tourism: Economic Necessity or Hidden Bias? FILE photo for reference only ANALYSIS Thailand's dual pricing policy, where foreign tourists often pay more than locals at attractions, sparks ongoing conversation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345479-dual-pricing-in-thai-tourism-economic-necessity-or-hidden-bias/

FILE photo for reference only ANALYSIS Thailand's dual pricing policy, where foreign tourists often pay more than locals at attractions, sparks ongoing conversation. This practice, grounded in economic rationale, sometimes stirs feelings of exclusion among visitors, leading to mixed reviews and accusations of inequity—although it's crucial to note the difference between nationality-based pricing and racial discrimination. Visitors to popular destinations, such as temples and national parks, encounter this tiered pricing structure, which charges foreigners higher fees compared to local residents. Supporters argue it boosts domestic tourism by offering locals affordable access to cultural sites and helps fund and sustain these attractions amidst the influx of foreign tourists. Defending this strategy, proponents assert it's necessary for the upkeep of the nation’s cultural heritage, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Opinions diverge sharply on this issue. Critics label it as an unfavourable practice that creates a rift between locals and tourists. Many visitors feel targeted due to nationality-based pricing, viewing it as an implicit form of discrimination. While not racially motivated, this differential treatment based on nationality can unintentionally harm Thailand’s reputation as a hospitable destination, provoking feelings of inequity among international travellers. Furthermore, the higher costs could deter some tourists, potentially affecting Thailand's competitiveness compared to neighbouring nations without such policies. Charges for foreigners can be significantly steeper, leading tourists to question the fairness of paying more for identical experiences as locals. Nevertheless, Thailand remains a magnetic tourist destination thanks to its diverse cultural offerings. Despite higher fees, many visitors continue to flock to its renowned sites, suggesting that the exotic appeal outweighs financial grievances, at least for now. Advocates for dual pricing insist that these funds are critical for sustaining the infrastructure and services that make the sites attractive and accessible to all visitors. The challenge moving forward lies in balancing the financial needs of maintaining tourist attractions with maintaining Thailand's image as an open and inclusive environment for all travellers. Exploring a more balanced pricing strategy that respects both local and global visitors might enhance Thailand's tourist appeal and mitigate feelings of exclusion. Transparent dialogue about the purpose and benefits could bridge divides, fostering a more understanding atmosphere among international guests and aligning economic strategies with Thailand’s longstanding tradition of warm hospitality, reported Pattaya Mail. -- 2024-12-06

Thai PM Paetongtarn Raises Concerns Over 15% VAT Proposal Picture courtesy: Money and Banking Thailand's Finance Ministry is contemplating a significant hike in value-added tax (VAT), stirring considerable debate among government officials and the public alike. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345478-thai-pm-paetongtarn-raises-concerns-over-15-vat-proposal/

Picture courtesy: Money and Banking Thailand's Finance Ministry is contemplating a significant hike in value-added tax (VAT), stirring considerable debate among government officials and the public alike. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra recently voiced her apprehensions regarding a potential increase from the current 7% to a hefty 15%. She acknowledged the stress such a change could impose on citizens, urging careful consideration. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira clarified on Wednesday that deliberations are in the early stages with the Finance Ministry "studying" the global tax landscape. "We are analysing both the advantages and disadvantages to secure maximum public benefit," he remarked, promising that public consultations will precede any official decision. Introduced in 1992, Thailand's VAT rate has been a stable fixture at 7%, despite occasional discussions about raising it to 10%. Currently, countries around the world impose VAT rates between 15% and 25%. Mr Pichai's comments were expanded at the recent Sustainability Forum 2025 in Bangkok, where he highlighted an OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) directive recommending a global corporate tax rate of 15%. He mentioned a possible reduction from Thailand's current 20% corporate tax, in line with international trends. The personal income tax was another focal point. Thailand currently imposes a 35% tax on earnings, which Mr Pichai identified as high relative to global competitors who are slashing personal tax rates to attract talent. However, the base for personal income tax remains limited compared to a substantial base for consumption tax, signalling a need for restructuring. Mr Pichai argued that adjusting consumption taxes sensibly could bridge socioeconomic gaps. "An increased VAT rate could ensure wealthier individuals contribute more, with the generated revenue allocated to assist low-income citizens and bolster infrastructure," he suggested, adding that the adjustment must be timely, considering Thailand's ageing population. Lavaron Sangsnit, the finance ministry's permanent secretary, acknowledged these changes necessitate robust political resolve and should align with the nation's economic recovery trajectory. Critics, including opposition voices, are concerned about the repercussions on the public. People's Party deputy leader Sirikanya Tansakun took to social media platform X to oppose the proposed VAT hike, fearing impacts on salaried workers and the middle class. Similarly, Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana from the United Thai Nation Party warned of potential price surges in goods and services. In an attempt to manage the cost of living, the Thai cabinet recently decided to maintain the 7% VAT rate until September 30, 2025. Government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub confirmed the extension aims to temper inflationary pressures and promote spending, all while nurturing confidence in the nation's economic resilience. Converted to local currency, this analysis invites further public scrutiny and discussions around the proposed tax adjustments. The coming weeks will likely see more debate as stakeholders mull over the broader implications of such fiscal policy changes, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-06

7 Traffic Policemen Surrender Over Assault on Policeman's Son Picture courtesy: Daily News In a late-night development, seven traffic policemen accused of assaulting a police lieutenant colonel's son surrendered at Bang Khen Police Station, managing to evade the media in a somewhat chaotic scene. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345470-7-traffic-policemen-surrender-over-assault-on-policemans-son/

Picture courtesy: Daily News In a late-night development, seven traffic policemen accused of assaulting a police lieutenant colonel's son surrendered at Bang Khen Police Station, managing to evade the media in a somewhat chaotic scene. On 5th December, it was reported that these officers, from Traffic Control Division 1, were involved in an incident that left Mr Thanapon Kerdsri, aged 33, severely injured at a checkpoint in Soi Prasert-Manukitch 21, Chatuchak, Bangkok. They arrived individually at the station, taking great care to avoid journalists. Around 10 PM, men dressed in casual clothes and wearing jackets, suspected to be the officers involved, parked their cars and motorbikes at the back of Bang Khen Police Station. Meanwhile, with the media positioned out front, a group of about four or five policemen were seen hurriedly entering through a side stairway to meet investigators on the third floor. Later, at approximately 11.17 PM, two more officers arrived on a motorbike at the front of the station. Upon spotting reporters, they quickly dismounted and dashed into the station to avoid being photographed. The officers belong to Traffic Control Division 1 and are now part of an investigation into the serious confrontation, which has drawn significant attention due to its nature and the individuals involved, reported Daily News -- 2024-12-06

Thailand’s DES Ministry Blocks Access to Over 178,000 Illegal URLs Picture courtesy: Freepik In a decisive crackdown on illegal online activities, Thailand's Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES) has blocked over 178,000 unlawful URLs in just 14 months. This extensive initiative reflects both the ministry's commitment to cleansing the digital landscape and its effectiveness in doing so. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345465-thailand’s-des-ministry-blocks-access-to-over-178000-illegal-urls/

Picture courtesy: Freepik In a decisive crackdown on illegal online activities, Thailand's Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES) has blocked over 178,000 unlawful URLs in just 14 months. This extensive initiative reflects both the ministry's commitment to cleansing the digital landscape and its effectiveness in doing so. Minister Prasert Chanthararuangthong announced the remarkable figure, highlighting an increased focus on tackling online crime through collaborations with internet service providers. Between October 2023 and November 2024, specifically, 178,609 URLs were taken offline, achieving an average of 12,757 URLs per month. This marks a significant leap compared to the preceding period, where only about 17,670 URLs were obstructed—a rise of approximately 8.6 times the previous amount. The minister attributed this success to enhanced oversight capabilities and improved communication with internet service providers, enabling faster and more efficient responses. The process is robust: once illegal sites are identified, either through police alerts or the ministry's own discovery, swift action follows. The DES Minister seeks approval to proceed with court requests necessary to block these URLs. After securing a court order, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, alongside ISPs and online platforms, are tasked to block the offending URLs within a mere two to three days. Failure to comply results in stiff fines, an accountability measure that has already accrued approximately 21 million Thai Baht in fines from non-compliant platforms. This vigilant approach underscores the Thai government's seriousness about purifying its digital space. The crackdown extends beyond conventional illegal activities to include gambling sites, as well as fraudulent pages potentially harmful to the public. As online crime evolves, this proactive stance enhances domestic cybersecurity and projects Thailand as a leader in digital regulation within Southeast Asia. Further plans are on the horizon, with the DES Ministry aiming to develop even more sophisticated technical frameworks to pre-emptively tackle digital threats. This operation serves as a template, showing how governmental action can align with service providers to create a safer online environment for all users. The ministry's ongoing campaign against digital crime illustrates not just the complexity of managing internet safety but also the possibilities opened by decisive strategy and policy implementation. In fostering a safer internet space, DES reinforces the importance of vigilance and responsiveness to protect its citizens in an increasingly digital age, reported The Nation. -- 2024-12-06

Chinese Driver in High-Speed Collision Wreaks Havoc in Pattaya Picture courtesy: Daily News A 39-year-old Chinese man driving an Alphard van created havoc in the bustling city of Pattaya, leading to a catastrophic accident that damaged 12 vehicles, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries. The police have apprehended the suspect and are conducting an investigation, including an alcohol test. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345460-chinese-driver-in-high-speed-collision-wreaks-havoc-in-pattaya/

Picture courtesy: Daily News A 39-year-old Chinese man driving an Alphard van created havoc in the bustling city of Pattaya, leading to a catastrophic accident that damaged 12 vehicles, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries. The police have apprehended the suspect and are conducting an investigation, including an alcohol test. On the 5th of December, Deputy Inspector Lt. Sanan Kotanon of the Pattaya Police Station received reports of a major collision near Thepprasit Road involving several cars and motorcycles. The incident involved a fatality and left numerous people injured. Rescuers and police officers quickly arrived at the scene. Upon arrival, a crowd of shocked onlookers had gathered. They witnessed two pickup trucks that had been severely damaged near a petrol station. About 100 metres further, authorities found a black MG sedan overturned, with significant damage, and tragically, a 30-year-old man was pronounced dead in the vehicle’s wreckage. Nearby lay four damaged motorcycles and a black Chevrolet Cruze, all victims of this devastating collision. Approximately 200 metres away, the original vehicle involved—a luxurious van—was still attempting to flee. It eventually collided with a black Suzuki sedan, which then spun out of control, hitting nearby houses and injuring two foreign tourists. The chain reaction also resulted in damage to a bronze Mitsubishi Pajero SUV. The luxury van, a white Toyota Alphard, was driven by Mr. Zhang Yigong, a 39-year-old Chinese national, who appeared unresponsive and indifferent to the unfolding chaos. He was swiftly detained by police and helpful bystanders. Picture courtesy: Daily News CCTV footage captured sections of the incident, revealing the Toyota Alphard striking the rear of the MG sedan, flipping it over, and continuing to collide with parked vehicles before hitting the Suzuki sedan and the Pajero. The crash eventually halted the runaway van, which crossed the median and ended up in the opposing lane. This chaotic scenario left foreign tourists scrambling for safety as they attempted to escape potential harm. Preliminary findings by Deputy Inspector Lt. Sanan Kotanon confirm a total of seven cars and five motorcycles suffered extensive damage. Mr. Zhang Yigong, the driver of the Toyota Alphard, is being held for alcohol and drug testing to ensure a thorough investigation and legal proceedings that protect the rights of all involved parties. The aim is to provide clarity, accountability, and justice in light of this tragic incident, reported Daily News -- 2024-12-06 .

Canadian Tourist Dies After Slipping on Stairs at a Jomtien Beach Resort A Canadian tourist lost his life after slipping on a staircase and hitting his head on a statue at a resort on Jomtien Beach, Chonburi. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1345402-canadian-tourist-dies-after-slipping-on-stairs-at-a-jomtien-beach-resort/

Phuket Unfazed by Terror Threats to Israeli Tourists File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Phuket remains poised and undeterred despite recent warnings from Israel regarding potential terrorist threats targeting Israeli citizens in Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345411-phuket-unfazed-by-terror-threats-to-israeli-tourists/

Finnish Man Arrested for 10-Year Visa Overstay in Thailand Picture courtesy: Press People A Finnish national living in Thailand has been detained by Chiang Mai Immigration Police after overstaying his visa by an extraordinary 3,844 days, equating to more than a decade. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345417-finnish-man-arrested-for-10-year-overstay-in-thailand/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 6 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1345430-thailand-live-friday-6-december-2024/

A 38-year-old Australian man caused chaos in a housing estate in Pattaya, Nong Prue subdistrict, Bang Lamung district. The man was reportedly in a state of psychotic distress. He ran naked through the area, smashed vehicles with a metal grate, and ultimately set his rented house on fire. Australian Man Runs Amok, Sets House on Fire, and Smashes Vehicles in Pattaya Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345403-australian-man-runs-amok-sets-house-on-fire-and-smashes-vehicles-in-pattaya/

Pattaya Petrol Pump Fraudster Strikes Twice, Police Seek Swift Arrest Picture courtesy: TNA-MCOT A man driving a dark grey sedan has twice managed to charge up at a gas station in Pong sub-district, East Pattaya, only to leave without paying, pinning the employees with the bill both times. The manager of the station is now urging the police to swiftly apprehend the brazen offender following these incidents on November 20 and December 3. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345418-pattaya-petrol-pump-fraudster-strikes-twice-police-seek-swift-arrest/

Picture courtesy: TNA-MCOT A man driving a dark grey sedan has twice managed to charge up at a gas station in Pong sub-district, East Pattaya, only to leave without paying, pinning the employees with the bill both times. The manager of the station is now urging the police to swiftly apprehend the brazen offender following these incidents on November 20 and December 3. The man first appeared at the station in the early hours of November 20, around 2:30 AM. He filled his tank with 500 Thai Baht worth of gasohol and attempted to pay using an expired credit card, subsequently fleeing when the payment failed. After the unsuccessful transaction, the gas station promptly checked the credit card’s details, which led to the filing of a police report. Despite this, the same individual returned to the station in the wee hours of December 3, demonstrating equal audacity. At approximately 12:38 AM, he again fueled up with another 500 Thai Baht worth of fuel. Mimicking the previous scenario, he feigned the payment process only to escape once more, with employees mistakenly believing he had settled the bill with another colleague. Ms. Suratchana, the gas station's 26-year-old manager, has expressed her frustration over the recurring deceit. With the station staff having to shoulder the financial burden of his actions, she described the acts as not just audacious but disrespectful towards the law. Determined to see justice served, she has provided the police with comprehensive evidence, including CCTV footage capturing both incidents and credit card details, to aid in the pursuit. This evidence includes the man's vehicle license plate number and expired credit card information, all vital clues that Ms. Suratchana hopes will lead the authorities to swiftly identify and apprehend the culprit. The station remains optimistic that with these clear leads, the police will be able to prevent any further fraudulent attempts. The incidents have placed an added financial strain and stress on the gas station workers, who have had to cover the losses caused by the deceitful escapades. As the community in East Pattaya watches this unusual case unfold, there is a collective hope for a swift resolution, ensuring the offender is caught and faces the consequences of his actions, reported TNA-MCOT. -- 2024-12-05 The incidents have placed an added financial strain and stress on the gas station workers, who have had to cover the losses caused by the deceitful escapades. As the community in East Pattaya watches this unusual case unfold, there is a collective hope for a swift resolution, ensuring the offender is caught and faces the consequences of his actions.

Finnish Man Arrested for 10-Year Visa Overstay in Thailand Picture courtesy: Press People A Finnish national living in Thailand has been detained by Chiang Mai Immigration Police after overstaying his visa by an extraordinary 3,844 days, equating to more than a decade. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345417-finnish-man-arrested-for-10-year-overstay-in-thailand/

Picture courtesy: Press People A Finnish national living in Thailand has been detained by Chiang Mai Immigration Police after overstaying his visa by an extraordinary 3,844 days, equating to more than a decade. The arrest occurred on December 2nd in San Sai District within Chiang Mai Province, following a tip-off that led authorities directly to his location. The man's long-standing evasion of immigration laws ended when officers verified his overstayed status through the Immigration Bureau's database. He was promptly apprehended and now confronts legal proceedings that will culminate in his deportation back to Finland. Following his arrest, the man conceded to initially entering Thailand on a tourist visa and subsequently neglecting to renew or extend it after its expiration. Over the ensuing years, he adeptly avoided law enforcement to dodge capture, underscoring a significant lapse in compliance with Thai immigration regulations. This arrest is part of a broader initiative spearheaded by the Commander of Immigration Division 5, aimed at clamping down on immigration violations throughout the region. Authorities from Chiang Mai are reinforcing their dedication to upholding the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979), ensuring that foreign residents adhere to lawful entry and residency requirements within the Kingdom. The immediate aftermath of the arrest involves preparations for his deportation, as officials arrange for his return to Finland. Under the Thai legal framework, visa overstay is a serious offence, and deportation is not only a typical consequence but also serves as a stringent reminder of the importance of adhering to immigration laws. For many expatriates and tourists in Thailand, this incident serves as a stark warning about the penalties for flouting visa regulations. An overstay of this magnitude is rare, yet it highlights the potential repercussions for those who choose to sidestep legal requirements. The financial implications are significant as well, with fines for overstaying one's visa that can accumulate rapidly. Indeed, the maximum penalty for overstaying a Thai visa could rise to 20,000 Thai Baht, compounded by the legal process and subsequent deportation. Chiang Mai's increased vigilance in enforcing these rules sends a clear message to foreign nationals: compliance is non-negotiable, and the consequences of non-compliance are severe. As this case progresses to a resolution, it underscores the imperative for all foreign visitors to rigorously follow Thailand's immigration laws. While this man's decade-long evasion of the system is an exception rather than the rule, it serves as a compelling narrative for others to ensure that their stay in the country is both lawful and secure, reported Press People. -- 2024-12-05