webfact

File photo courtesy: Kasikorn Research Thailand is on the brink of implementing a wealth tax, a move greatly facilitated by recent advancements in tracking high-net-worth individuals' assets, even those held overseas. This development was explained by Finance Permanent Secretary Lavaron Sangsnit, who shared insights during an address at the National Defence College. Lavaron revealed that Thailand's new membership in the international tax information exchange network has been a game-changer. By joining this global framework, the Thai Revenue Department now gains access to income data related to Thai citizens residing abroad and can receive information from foreign authorities about earnings generated overseas by Thais. This unprecedented transparency marks a significant stride towards rendering a wealth tax executable. “In the past, implementing such a tax was challenging because the very wealthy could manage their assets globally. The wealthy can invest worldwide, and we have never been able to track their assets held abroad,” Lavaron noted. Previously, taxation was predominantly confined to assets within Thailand's borders, which, though easier to regulate, posed limitations on encompassing global assets. Now, foreign-held assets are clearly on the radar, paving the way to potentially tax wealth that has evaded assessments thus far. This shift comes at a time when international tax trends are veering towards minimising income taxes while emphasising consumption and wealth levies. Lavaron emphasised that mere hikes in VAT are insufficient for comprehensive tax reform. One pivotal goal of taxation, he argued, is to ameliorate income disparities between high and low earners. A substantial, balanced reform of the tax system could even lead to lower income tax rates, a development that would ostensibly make Thailand an attractive destination for both investors and skilled professionals. Additionally, Lavaron highlighted that many countries introduce mitigative strategies wherein increased taxes in one domain are counterbalanced by support for vulnerable groups, cushioning the blow of consumption tax rises. Enhancing consumption and wealth taxes is expected to boost tax collection efficacy, according to Lavaron. He also urged that, given the dynamic shifts in global tax protocols, Thailand must adjust and adopt a balanced tax policy that aligns well with international norms. Lastly, he mentioned that these deliberations align with a proposal from Thailand’s Fiscal Policy Office aimed at overhauling the tax system. This comprehensive reform intends to bolster revenue, fortify debt repayment capabilities, and harmonise with evolving economic structures and consumer patterns. In conclusion, the prospect of a wealth tax in Thailand signals a pivotal change in the country’s fiscal strategy, marking a proactive step towards addressing economic disparities and meeting global taxation standards. With international collaboration and comprehensive domestic tax reforms on the horizon, Thailand is positioning itself for a more equitable economic future, reported Malay Mail. -- 2025-01-21

Thaksin Dodges Garbage Attack During Campaign in Thailand Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In an unexpected twist to a political rally in Maha Sarakham, northeastern Thailand, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra found himself at the centre of an unusual protest when a woman hurled a bag of garbage in his direction. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349379-thaksin-dodges-garbage-attack-during-campaign-in-thailand/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In an unexpected twist to a political rally in Maha Sarakham, northeastern Thailand, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra found himself at the centre of an unusual protest when a woman hurled a bag of garbage in his direction. The incident took place during a Pheu Thai party campaign event, where Thaksin was delivering an enthusiastic speech about the government's plans for local development. The woman, known as Auntie Oun, managed to throw the plastic bag close to Thaksin as he stood on stage in Payakhapum Pisai district. Surrounded by party members and candidates, including those vying for provincial administration positions, Thaksin remained unfazed by the harmless act of defiance. Police quickly intervened, bringing the woman forward, but Thaksin opted not to press charges against her. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Auntie Oun, a food vendor and former Red Shirt activist, expressed her frustration with the situation. She alleged that a canvasser had promised her 200 Thai Baht (approximately £4.50) to attend the rally but received nothing due to what she claimed was an over-recruitment of supporters at the event. Historically, Red Shirt activists, largely from Thailand's Isaan region, have supported Thaksin in the wake of his ousting in a 2006 coup. The movement reached a tragic climax in May 2010 when government troops violently suppressed protests, resulting in nearly 100 deaths and numerous injuries. Discontent simmered further after the 2023 elections when Thaksin allegedly brokered a Pheu Thai-led coalition with parties tied to the 2014 coup junta, such as the Palang Pracharath and Ruam Thai Sang Chart. Many former Red Shirts felt let down by this political manoeuvre, given that his sister, Yingluck Shinawatra, was ousted from power under similar circumstances. This unique protest during the Maha Sarakham rally underscores the complex and often turbulent political landscape in Thailand. Thaksin, known for his robust political strategies and enduring influence, remains a polarising figure, capable of both significant support and profound protest. As the country gears up for upcoming elections, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the deep-seated emotions and divisions that continue to influence Thai politics. While Thaksin's political future - and indeed the future of the Pheu Thai party's governance ambitions - remains uncertain, the incident with Auntie Oun and the garbage bag is a telling reflection of the unpredictable nature of political sentiment in Thailand's enduring democratic journey, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-01-21

Thailand Makes Record Crystal Meth Seizure in Bangkok Warehouse Picture courtesy: Thai TV 5 Thai authorities have made a record-breaking seizure of 1.65 tonnes of crystal methamphetamine, known as "Ice," hidden within cotton bales in a Bangkok warehouse. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349387-thailand-makes-record-crystal-meth-seizure-in-bangkok-warehouse/

Picture courtesy: Thai TV 5 Thai authorities have made a record-breaking seizure of 1.65 tonnes of crystal methamphetamine, known as "Ice," hidden within cotton bales in a Bangkok warehouse. The major bust took place in the Rat Burana district and led to the arrest of five individuals, including a woman responsible for renting the storage space. Parin Mekhanan, the director of suppression at the Office of Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), detailed the operation. The consignment, comprising 33 cotton bales and weighing approximately 1.65 tonnes, originated from an African country. It was initially destined for India but was barred entry, prompting the sender to enlist a Thai contact in Bangkok to secure temporary storage and plan its shipment to another destination. Picture courtesy: Thai TV 5 This Thai woman, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed by police, arranged for the cotton bales to be housed in an empty warehouse. Her involvement led to her arrest last week at the Queen Sirikit Convention Centre in Bangkok's Khlong Toei district. In the wake of the discovery, ONCB Secretary-General Pol Lt-Col Phanurat Lukboon expressed the unprecedented nature of the haul. "It is the first time we have seized such a large quantity of methamphetamine," he disclosed to AFP. The operation was fueled by intelligence provided by the Royal Thai Navy. Back in December, the Navy tipped off the ONCB about an African drug syndicate's strategy, which involved using cotton bales as a disguise for moving drugs from Africa through Thailand to other countries, exploiting it as a transit point. Picture courtesy: Thai TV 5 Lukboon admitted the clever concealment tactics employed by traffickers, noting that the methamphetamine, impregnated into the cotton, was virtually invisible to the naked eye, complicating detection efforts. This significant crackdown underscores Thailand's ongoing battle against drug smuggling. The seizure highlights the innovative and audacious methods international trafficking rings use to evade law enforcement. The confiscated methamphetamine is valued at approximately 49.5 million Thai Baht (£1.1 million) if distributed on the streets, reflecting the scale and financial incentive driving these illegal activities. This operation not only disrupts a major supply chain but also sends a robust signal of Thailand's commitment to fighting the drug epidemic that impacts the region, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-01-21

Shinawatras Lose Golf Club Ownership, but Lease Option Open File photo for reference courtesy: Wikepedia In a significant development, the Department of Lands in Thailand has been directed to revoke the ownership titles for the Alpine Golf and Sports Club and adjoining residential properties in Pathum Thani province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349343-shinawatras-lose-golf-club-ownership-but-lease-option-open/

Thailand bets big on casino boom under entertainment banner By Bob Scott Police swoop on an illegal gambling den in Nonthaburi. Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In a daring move set to shake up the Land of Smiles, the Government of Thailand is pushing forward with a controversial plan to legalise casinos, sneakily packaged as entertainment complexes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349345-thailand-bets-big-on-casino-boom-under-entertainment-banner/

Fake hug scam strikes again: Indian man loses gold necklace to 3 ladyboys By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ TMN Cable TV Pattaya Three Thai ladyboys offered an Indian man a seemingly friendly hug before stealing his gold necklace, worth about 132,000 baht, from him on Pattaya Beach in the early hours of today. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349357-fake-hug-scam-strikes-again-indian-man-loses-gold-necklace-to-3-ladyboys/

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 21 January 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1349350-thailand-live-tuesday-21-january-2025/

Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail Banged up: Thai prison nightmare exposed by British tourist by Bob Scott A British tourist revealed the grim conditions banged up abroad in a Thai prison and issued a chilling warning to fellow travellers about the reality of being detained abroad. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349356-banged-up-thai-prison-nightmare-exposed-by-british-tourist/

Banged up: Thai prison nightmare exposed by British tourist by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail A British tourist revealed the grim conditions banged up abroad in a Thai prison and issued a chilling warning to fellow travellers about the reality of being detained abroad. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349356-banged-up-thai-prison-nightmare-exposed-by-british-tourist/

Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail by Bob Scott A British tourist revealed the grim conditions banged up abroad in a Thai prison and issued a chilling warning to fellow travellers about the reality of being detained abroad. The 29 year old former soldier, who wished to remain anonymous, endured a 15-day ordeal in two police cells and a Bangkok deportation centre after overstaying his visa, a blunder he deeply regrets. “The only way I can describe it is hell.” Held with 130 other people in a stifling room devoid of ventilation, he added, “We could only go out for an hour a week.” The grim picture didn’t end there. Guards would distribute food in trays washed on the filthy bathroom floor using cold water. “Everywhere I stayed was infested with fire ants and cockroaches. The rubbish just piled up in a corner.” Pictures courtesy of The Daily Mail His Thai adventure began with hope and ambition in April of the previous year, as he planned to settle and start a business. However, his dreams crumbled in November when a spat with an ex landed him in hot water in Pattaya. Police, alerted to his visa status, arrested him and dragged him to court, claiming he had overstayed by a few days. “The police were very violent. Two officers ambushed me in a public toilet and beat me. They threw me onto the flatbed of a truck and cuffed me to the side.” Dazed and disoriented, the British man suspected he suffered a concussion and was left in the dark about his fate until Russian cellmates enlightened him about the process. “They lent me money to pay my court fine, otherwise, it would have been much worse.” Packed into a cramped police cell measuring six-by-four feet alongside eight other inmates, he resorted to bribery to make life fractionally more bearable. The prisoners jostled for space and struggled to rest, with no room to lie down properly. “There was a pregnant girl from Laos who was really struggling, always crying with her head on the floor. It was horrible, especially as another cell, the same size, was packed with 13 people.” After eight gruelling days in Pattaya, he was moved to Bangkok’s deportation centre, where behaviour worsened. Sharing four grim toilets with 130 detainees, they relied on a bucket of cold water for cleaning and bathing. Weekends granted an hour of fresh air in a roofless, barred area, barely a respite. “A guy sold pot noodles in one corner. That’s all I’d eat.” His mother fought tooth and nail with the British embassy to secure his release, eventually getting him flown home. It cost 500 baht (£11.94) per night for his stay at the deportation centre, plus airfare. Remarkably, the British tourist managed to smuggle a phone inside, hidden in baby wipes, to capture the conditions, the Daily Mail reported. “Once you’re locked in, you have zero contact and no way to access money. Someone outside must fight for you. I’m fortunate I sneaked my phone inside and my mum contacted the embassy, otherwise, I’d still be stuck there.” His experience served as a stark warning to travellers. “Don’t risk overstaying your visa thinking it’s just a small fine. It’s not worth becoming a victim of this.” Bitter from his ordeal, he declared he would never return to Thailand. He criticised the system as a “cash-making scheme” for the government, claiming that tourism, the backbone of Thailand’s economy, exploits foreigners through such detentions. The former soldier’s ordeal serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of visa lapses and the stark realities lurking behind Thailand’s tourist veneer, urging cautious adherence to immigration laws to avoid a similar nightmare. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-20

Shinawatras Lose Golf Club Ownership, but Lease Option Open File photo for reference courtesy: Wikepedia In a significant development, the Department of Lands in Thailand has been directed to revoke the ownership titles for the Alpine Golf and Sports Club and adjoining residential properties in Pathum Thani province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349343-shinawatras-lose-golf-club-ownership-but-lease-option-open/

File photo for reference courtesy: Wikepedia In a significant development, the Department of Lands in Thailand has been directed to revoke the ownership titles for the Alpine Golf and Sports Club and adjoining residential properties in Pathum Thani province. This decision, catalysed by Chamnanwit Terat, a deputy permanent secretary at the Interior Ministry, hinges on the discovery that the land was originally donated for religious purposes, to Wat Dhammamikaramvoraviharn, a temple located in Prachuap Khiri Khan province. The land in question, 924 rai in size, was donated by a philanthropist, Noem Chamnanchartsakda, to the temple in 1971. Upon her passing, the Mahamongkut Ratchawittayalai Foundation, appointed as the executor of her estate, sold the land to Alpine Real Estate and Alpine Golf and Sports Club, an action now deemed unlawful as it went against the original donation terms which prohibited such sales. Following the revocation of current ownership, Wat Dhammamikaramvoraviharn will regain control of the land. This opens up the possibility of leasing the land back to current occupants, allowing the golf club and residences to continue operations under new terms. Moreover, there is a proposition for the Department of Lands to financially compensate the current occupants for the loss of ownership, potentially easing the transition. Central to this contentious affair are the Shinawatras, a powerful political family in Thailand. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, who assumed office on the 18th of August last year, was initially a shareholder, holding about 22.41 million shares in the Alpine Golf and Sports Club. However, records indicate that she transferred her shares to her mother, Khunying Potjaman na Pombejra, as of early September. As detailed in a shareholder report from September 2024, Khunying Potjaman, along with other family members, maintain substantial stakes in the club, with Khunying Potjaman owning 29.88 million shares, while Panthongtae Shinawatra and Pinthongta Shinawatra Kunakornwong each hold 22.42 million and 22.41 million shares respectively. This revocation not only disrupts the financial holds of a prominent family but also offers a broader reflection on land ownership and religious donation ethics in Thailand. As the situation unfolds, attention now turns to how the Shinawatra family and other stakeholders will navigate these legal and ethical complexities, and whether they will pursue retaining operational control through leasing agreements. The outcome could set precedents for managing land donations and religious assets across the nation, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-20

Chinese penis size matters: Cheeky joke blows up into beach brawl by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of News.com.au A light-hearted joke about the size of a Chinese man’s penis turned into a full-blown scuffle on Pattaya’s Beach Road. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349300-chinese-penis-size-matters-cheeky-joke-blows-up-into-beach-brawl/

Picture courtesy of News.com.au by Bob Scott A light-hearted joke about the size of a Chinese man’s penis turned into a full-blown scuffle on Pattaya’s Beach Road. Chaos erupted in the early hours of today, January 20, when 35 year old Ms A, accompanied her 24 year old Chinese boyfriend, to Pattaya City Police Station. The night had taken a violent turn after a Thai-Chinese man ignited tempers with the cheeky question, “Is your penis big or small?” The 24 year old man was not amused. Determined to stand up for himself, he confronted the provocateur with, “What does it have to do with you?” Tensions soared, resulting in a heated row. Matters quickly escalated as the joker seized the opportunity, stabbing the young man in the arm with a key, causing blood to splatter everywhere. In the chaos that engulfed the South Pattaya scene, the assailant made his escape without a scratch. Meanwhile, the injured man was tended to by the Sawang Boriboon Pattaya Rescue Unit, who were alerted by the cops. At the police station, Ms A and her boyfriend filed a complaint with Investigation Superintendent Police Lieutenant Colonel Suthiraphan Tapsri. A formal investigation is now underway, as the police work to iron out the details and bring the evasive perpetrator to justice, reported Channel 7. Picture of the injured Chinese man courtesy of Channel 7 In related news, last week a hard study was conducted about the size of a penis, myths, and what science says. Contrary to pop culture’s grand assumptions, studies reveal that penis size is surprisingly uniform worldwide. Research indicates the average erect length is between 12.9 centimetres (5.1 inches) and 13.92 cm (5.5 in). However, men tend to overestimate the average size and often undervalue their own, while women are generally less concerned about it than men might think. A 2015 study found women prioritised girth as much as length, choosing an ideal size of 16 cm (6.3 in) in length and 12.2 cm (4.8 in) in girth for long-term partners. Moreover, 85% of women reported satisfaction with their partner’s size, compared to only 55% of men. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-20

Thailand braces for cold weather and possible thunderstorms by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Darcey Beau, Unsplash The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has forecasted cold to very cold weather across northern and northeastern Thailand, with temperatures dropping to single digits. Bangkok will see temperatures as low as 18 degrees Celsius. Additionally, five provinces are expected to experience thunderstorms today, January 20. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349297-thailand-braces-for-cold-weather-and-possible-thunderstorms/

Picture courtesy of Darcey Beau, Unsplash by Bright Choomanee The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has forecasted cold to very cold weather across northern and northeastern Thailand, with temperatures dropping to single digits. Bangkok will see temperatures as low as 18 degrees Celsius. Additionally, five provinces are expected to experience thunderstorms today, January 20. Over the next 24 hours, the northern, northeastern, central, and eastern regions will continue to experience cool to cold weather with morning fog. Upper southern parts, including Bangkok and surrounding areas, will have cool mornings. Mountain peaks and highland areas may see very cold conditions with potential frost. Residents across Thailand are advised to take care of their health due to the persistent cold weather and to be cautious of potential fire hazards due to dry conditions. Additionally, caution is advised when travelling in foggy areas. These conditions are due to a moderate high-pressure system, or cold air mass, covering upper Thailand and the South China Sea. The northeastern monsoon affecting the Gulf of Thailand, the southern region, and the Andaman Sea is weakening, leading to reduced rainfall in the lower southern region. The sea conditions in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea remain moderate. In the lower Gulf of Thailand, waves are approximately 2 metres high, while in the upper Gulf of Thailand, waves range from 1 to 2 metres. Areas with thunderstorms may see waves exceeding 2 metres. The Andaman Sea experiences waves around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 2 metres offshore. Mariners are advised to navigate cautiously and avoid areas with thunderstorms. Weather forecast Air pollution remains a concern due to poor to weak air dispersion and persistent surface inversion, limiting the spread of pollutants. The concentration of dust particles is expected to rise. In the northern region, temperatures will range from 12 to 17 degrees Celsius, with highs between 28 and 33 degrees Celsius. Mountain peaks may experience temperatures as low as 3 to 10 degrees Celsius. Northeastern winds will blow at 5 to 15 kilometres per hour. The northeastern region will have temperatures between 11 and 15 degrees Celsius, with highs of 28 to 32 degrees Celsius. Mountain areas may see lows of 7 to 12 degrees Celsius, with northeasterly winds at 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. In the central region, temperatures will range from 16 to 18 degrees Celsius, with highs of 31 to 33 degrees Celsius. Northeastern winds will blow at 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. The eastern region will experience temperatures between 15 and 21 degrees Celsius, with highs of 31 to 33 degrees Celsius. Northeasterly winds will blow at 15 to 35 kilometres per hour, with waves around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 2 metres offshore. The upper southern region will have cool mornings with 20% thunderstorms, mainly in Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures will range from 19 to 24 degrees Celsius, with 30 to 32 degrees Celsius highs. Northeasterly winds will blow at 15 to 35 kilometres per hour, with waves of 1 to 2 metres. Thunderstorms In the lower southern region, northeasterly winds will blow at 20 to 35 kilometres per hour, with waves around 2 metres, increasing beyond 2 metres in thunderstorms. The upper western southern region will experience cool mornings with light rain in some areas, mainly in the lower parts. Temperatures will range from 21 to 24 degrees Celsius, with highs of 31 to 33 degrees Celsius. Northeasterly winds will blow at 15 to 35 kilometres per hour, with waves around 1 metre, increasing to 1 to 2 metres offshore, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and its surrounding areas will have cool weather with light morning fog. Temperatures will range from 18 to 21 degrees Celsius, with highs of 32 to 34 degrees Celsius. Northeasterly winds will blow at 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-20

Thaksin Boldly Promises to End Scam Call Centres in Months Picture courtesy: Daily News Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has expressed confidence that government policies will gain major traction within a few months. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349287-thaksin-boldly-promises-to-end-scam-call-centres-in-months/

Picture courtesy: Daily News Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has expressed confidence that government policies will gain major traction within a few months. Specifically, he predicted the complete closure of notorious scam call centres by the year's end, for which extensive collaboration with neighbouring Cambodia and Myanmar has been undertaken. This bold claim is part of a broader vision to revitalise Thailand’s economy and public welfare. Campaigning in Bueng Kan for a local politician, Thaksin outlined future government initiatives closely tied to global economic trends. These include a bold move towards adopting cryptocurrency, which he believes can significantly infuse capital into Thailand's economy. He also promised a major housing development project with plans to construct 100,000 homes annually, aiming to accelerate socioeconomic growth. Addressing environmental concerns, Thaksin emphasised the urgency of tackling PM 2.5 pollution levels by holding sugar factories accountable for emissions, showcasing an integrated approach to policy-making. Paetongtarn “Ung Ing” Shinawatra, Thaksin’s daughter, has also been proactive, revealing comprehensive plans to dismantle drug operations and scam call centres based in border regions by year-end. Ung-Ing emphasised that discussions with officials in Poipet and Myawaddy reflect the administration's commitment to regional cooperation for public safety. Picture courtesy: Daily News Further enhancing Thailand’s international engagement, the government is preparing to sign a landmark free trade agreement with the European Free Trade Association on 23rd January in Davos. This agreement will significantly boost trade with Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, marking a strategic expansion into European markets. In parallel, Thailand has made its mark in the tourism industry, with Bangkok recently being ranked the second-best city globally by Time Out magazine, celebrated for its cuisine and cultural vibrancy. This accolade aligns with the government's strategic vision to promote Thailand as a global tourist hub, aiming for longer tourist stays and broader exploration beyond the capital. -- 2025-01-20

Gorilla smuggling plot uncovered after Istanbul Airport seizure by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post A wildlife official has acknowledged the challenges in pursuing legal action against those involved in the attempted trafficking of a baby gorilla, initially seized in Turkey and allegedly destined for Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349286-gorilla-smuggling-plot-uncovered-after-istanbul-airport-seizure/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post by Bright Choomanee A wildlife official has acknowledged the challenges in pursuing legal action against those involved in the attempted trafficking of a baby gorilla, initially seized in Turkey and allegedly destined for Thailand. The gorilla, named Zeytin, meaning olive in Turkish, is now at a zoo in Turkey and reportedly in good health, according to Sadudee Punpugdee, director of the Wild Fauna and Flora Protection Division. Since being intercepted en route from Nigeria to Thailand, Zeytin has grown 10 centimetres, gained 2 kilogrammes, and is estimated to be five months old. Investigations have linked the gorilla to a farm in Nakhon Pathom. The crate carrying Zeytin was labelled as containing 50 rabbits and was addressed to this farm. The inquiry was conducted collaboratively by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, the Livestock Department, and the Customs Department. Sadudee, also representing CITES, expressed scepticism that any parties in Thailand will be held accountable. However, he confirmed that coordination efforts with CITES representatives in Nigeria and Turkey are ongoing to dismantle the smuggling network responsible for the incident. Officials suspect that Zeytin was targeted by a gorilla baby smuggling operation based at Chatuchak Market in Bangkok. The buyer is believed to be a wealthy businessman with a penchant for exotic animals. The gorilla was smuggled in a wooden crate on a flight from Nigeria to Bangkok and was seized by the Customs Enforcement Smuggling and Intelligence Directorate at Istanbul airport on December 21. TK Farm in Nakhon Pathom, the intended recipient of the shipment, is a registered animal importer and breeder with a presence in Chatuchak Market, according to police. The farm’s owner stated that an African man had approached the company for assistance in importing 50 rabbits, reported Bangkok Post. The company agreed to manage the import procedures for 150,000 baht (US$4,346) but denied any knowledge of the gorilla. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-20

Thai Singer 'Tik Shiro' Faces Grieving Family After Fatal Car Accident Picture courtesy: Daily News At Wat Phra Si Maha That in Bangkok, well-known Thai singer Sirisak "Tik Shiro" Nantasesn paid his respects to Chakkraphat Siwaponphithak, known as Junior, who tragically died following a car accident. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349273-thai-singer-tik-shiro-faces-grieving-family-after-fatal-car-accident/

Picture courtesy: Daily News At Wat Phra Si Maha That in Bangkok, well-known Thai singer Sirisak "Tik Shiro" Nantasesn paid his respects to Chakkraphat Siwaponphithak, known as 'Junior', who tragically died following a car accident. Junior, 22, was fatally injured after being hit by a van driven by Tik Shiro on 10th October 2022. The accident occurred on Sukhaphiban 5 Road, and his sister Mejii also lost her life at the scene. During the funeral, journalists awaited Tik Shiro's arrival, who had initially expressed his condolences through messages from Surat Thani, where he was located. He eventually arrived, accompanied by two friends, only after the ceremony had concluded, due to a flight delay. He offered his apologies and condolences in person to Junior's father. The family expressed a willingness to discuss possible compensation but left any legal matters to the authorities, as the case proceeds through the judicial process. Junior's funeral rites will continue until 21st January, with cremation scheduled for 22nd January. -- 2025-01-20

Thai Nightclubs Face Crackdown on Ketamine Vape Drug File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand is intensifying its efforts to clamp down on the growing trend of "vaped" ketamine, a novel blend involving vape juice and the hallucinogenic drug, increasingly popular among the nightclub scene. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349267-thai-nightclubs-face-crackdown-on-ketamine-vape-drug/