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Bangkok Traffic Innovations Cut City Congestion by 25% in Two Years File photo courtesy: wikipedia In a bid to tackle congestion, Bangkok's traffic has seen a noticeable improvement, with travel times reduced by 25% in some of the city's busiest areas. This follows the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration's implementation of Area Traffic Control (ATC) technology and other innovations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348398-bangkok-traffic-innovations-cut-city-congestion-by-25-in-two-years/

British drug dealer arrested after his suspicious behaviour in Phuket By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ สถานีตำรวจภูธรกมลา Police arrested a British drug dealer in Phuket after observing him behaving suspiciously while meeting traffic officers on a road. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348387-british-drug-dealer-arrested-after-his-suspicious-behaviour-in-phuket/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 10 January 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1348403-thailand-live-friday-10-january-2025/

Photo via KhaoSod Foul play: Krabi cops rescue footballers from scam agent’s offside trap By Petch Petpailin Krabi Provincial Tourist Police officers swooped to help an Egyptian and a Yemeni football player after they were deceived by a scam agent who lured them to Thailand and defrauded them of 45,000 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348394-foul-play-krabi-cops-rescue-footballers-from-scam-agent’s-offside-trap/

Brit expats in Thailand warned of scams targeting bank accounts by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Inc.Magazine A chief of police issued a warning to retirees in Thailand after two British expats were targetted by scammers attempting to drain their bank accounts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348358-brit-expats-in-thailand-warned-of-scams-targeting-bank-accounts/

Picture courtesy of Inc.Magazine by Bob Scott A chief of police issued a warning to retirees in Thailand after two British expats were targetted by scammers attempting to drain their bank accounts. Police Lieutenant Colonel Saksit Choobunrueang yesterday, January 8, announced that the elderly are being targetted by scam gangs because of their limited knowledge of technology. The two British pensioners reached out to their local newspaper regarding the fraud and revealed how they narrowly escaped the clutches of scammers posing as officers from the Thai Revenue Department, Pattaya Mail reported. The retirees, both residents of Thailand, received separate phone calls from the fraudsters claiming they might not need to register for a TIN (Tax Identification Number), provided some routine checks confirmed their exemption. Under the guise of helping them, the callers deceitfully asked for personal details and bank account information, supposedly to confirm their residency status. In one unnerving encounter, a scammer assured one of the British expats that the revenue authority was compiling a list of foreigners exempt from personal income tax. In another, the con artist initiated a conversation about 800,000 baht in a Thai bank account, citing upcoming changes to one-year visa extensions. Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau officers inspect telecommunications equipment and SIM cards in the ongoing crackdown. Picture courtesy of Pattaya Mail Luckily, neither expat fell for the trap of sharing their bank account or card details, although one did reveal his full name before realising he was embroiled in an Internet scam. Both have since reported the incidents to the Police Anti-Online Scam Operations Centre via the hotline at 1441. Pol. Lt. Col. Saksit Choobunrueang highlighted the vulnerability of elderly expats. “Foreigners and Thais alike are often targeted because they may lack technological savvy and feel anxious around state bureaucracies.” The Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) issued a stark warning about the difficulty of recovering scammed funds, as they are swiftly converted into cryptocurrency or used to purchase gold, which “mules” transport abroad to call centre bases. The CCIB is beefing up efforts to ban fraudulent SIM cards and suppress telecommunication devices that mask call origins. However, scammers are increasingly using online platforms like Facebook or Line to lure victims. To safeguard themselves, expats in Thailand should heed essential advice. Watch out for phone numbers beginning with +697 or +698, as they are fraudulent, and be wary of any originating from +66, the Thai international code. Always feel empowered to hang up and call back to verify legitimacy; if it’s a call-centre scam, you’ll likely hit a dead end. Remain sceptical of anyone claiming to be an official requesting a chat, notifying you of a bank error in your favour, or alerting you to an undeliverable parcel. Remember the golden rule: if it sounds too good to be true, it likely is. Chon Buri immigration reassured expats there are no current plans to link visas to income tax or require a TIN for visa extensions. However, they remind everyone to stay compliant by completing their 90-day report. As the digital age makes scams more sophisticated, staying informed and cautious remains the best defence against these financial predators. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-09

British man’s death in Phuket leaves family searching for answers by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of the Daily Mail The heartbroken family of a British man is desperately seeking the truth after his body washed ashore a Phuket beach. The body of Regan Kelly was discovered on Saturday, January 5, floating in the sea off a Thai beach. The 28 year old South London man’s body was discovered naked and face down merely hours after he was seen dashing out of a bar after a meeting with an unknown man turned heated. Kelly, a 28 year old building surveyor from Selsdon, South London, had just set foot in Thailand for a month-long getaway when he vanished in the early hours of January 3. He was last captured on CCTV at the Mad Monkey Hostel, where he was staying on the idyllic island of Phuket. CCTV footage reveals Kelly in an intense discussion with a man who appeared to be a fellow tourist, yet not a fellow guest at the hostel. Over several hours, the conversation became “increasingly heated,” Regan’s family revealed. Laurie Blackall, Kelly’s sister, revealed the heated debate between her brother and the stranger to the MailOnline. “We are not too sure what they were talking about but the conversation seemed a bit confrontational. There’s no audio but Regan looked visibly upset.” After abruptly leaving the bar, Kelly headed towards the sun-kissed sands of Patong Beach, with the unknown man trailing behind only moments later. A nearby hotel’s security cameras caught the unsettling sight of Regan sprinting, followed by the mystery man a mere 15 seconds later. But then, the footage abruptly cuts off, leaving a haunting gap in the timeline. The following day, at 10am, a watersports instructor stumbled upon a tragic sight: Regan’s lifeless, naked body face down in the waves off Patong. With clothes and belongings nowhere to be seen, and his phone missing, Regan’s identity was confirmed through police photos sent to his family, who anxiously reported him missing when they hadn’t heard from him. Laurie, joined by her father, is now in Thailand, desperately piecing together the events leading up to her brother’s untimely demise. They are particularly focused on his conversation with the mystery man, believed to be the last person to see Regan alive. Determined to uncover the truth, the family has also launched a fundraiser to bring Regan’s body back to the UK for a second post-mortem, said Laurie. “The detective said he has worked tirelessly. I just don’t know if they want to make it out like it was a tragic accident. Don’t get me wrong, it could have been an accident, but something is really not sitting right with me.” Kelly, who regularly messaged his family since landing on December 30, had assured them with holiday snapshots, showing off his adventures and letting them know he was safe. But, when they didn’t hear from him on January 3, they felt a chilling sense of dread. Describing the man in pursuit as a fellow tourist, Laurie said, “He wore a white t-shirt and shorts and was muscly.” Laurie is appealing to this mystery man, urging him to step forward and reveal what was said in those final moments. “I would like to ask why Regan seemed so upset.” Despite the intense conversation, Laurie was taken aback by the video. “He’s in paradise and he’s worked so hard to get there. It wasn’t like him to be heated like that. He’s very sociable and not a reckless party boy. He’s an experienced traveller who had explored Southeast Asia before. He’s a professional, he’s not a lager lout.” A qualified building surveyor, Regan was known among friends and coworkers as “mature for his age” and “the most beautiful person.” His cousin Larysa describing him as a “lovely man with a loud laugh that would light up the room.” Despite Thai police ruling the official cause of death as drowning, Regan’s family insists on a British coroner’s opinion, said Laurie. “We want him to be examined properly. You don’t know how thorough they are.” The Kelly family has launched a JustGiving page to cover the substantial costs of bringing Regan home and arranging his funeral. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-09

American Tourist Safely Rescued from Pai Forest Ordeal Picture courtesy: Khaosod An American tourist expressed his heartfelt thanks to the Mae Hong Son Tourist Police, local rescue volunteers, and citizens after being safely rescued from a forest in northern Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348345-american-tourist-safely-rescued-from-pai-forest-ordeal/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod An American tourist expressed his heartfelt thanks to the Mae Hong Son Tourist Police, local rescue volunteers, and citizens after being safely rescued from a forest in northern Thailand. At 9:00 AM, Tourist Police in Pai, Mae Hong Son Province, received a report about a foreign tourist who had become lost in the Doi Thong forest area near Ya Po village. Immediately, the authorities coordinated with Pai rescue teams and local villagers to begin a search operation. The missing tourist was identified as 68-year-old American, Mr. Daniel, who had become disoriented while hiking from Ya Po village to Doi Thong. The search team found Mr. Daniel at 12:21 PM and safely escorted him back to the base by 1:30 PM. Fortunately, he was unharmed and expressed his gratitude to the search team, praising the police for their swift response. Police Lieutenant Colonel Suwit Bunyapen, Inspector of Mae Hong Son Tourist Police, highlighted that incidents of tourists getting lost in Pai's forests are not uncommon. "We urge tourism operators to provide tourists with detailed information and emphasize the importance of traveling with experienced guides," he said. "Without proper guidance, such incidents are bound to happen." In Mr. Daniel’s case, authorities were relieved that he returned safely without injury or harm, reported Khaosod. -- 2025-01-09

Poll Watchdog Scrutinises Thaksin's Campaign Promises Amid Legal Concerns File photo courtesy: Thai PBS on X In a developing political intrigue, the Election Commission (EC) is poised to scrutinise recent promises made by former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra during his campaign trail in northern Thailand. Questions have arisen over whether Thaksin's pledges potentially breach election laws, particularly as he campaigns for provincial votes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348336-poll-watchdog-scrutinises-thaksins-campaign-promises-amid-legal-concerns/

File photo courtesy: Thai PBS on X In a developing political intrigue, the Election Commission (EC) is poised to scrutinise recent promises made by former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra during his campaign trail in northern Thailand. Questions have arisen over whether Thaksin's pledges potentially breach election laws, particularly as he campaigns for provincial votes. Amid growing scrutiny, EC chairman Ittiporn Boonpracong noted that the commission needs to carefully examine Thaksin's promises before determining any legal infractions. "We need to first look into the details [of his promises]. So, we can’t answer this question right now," Mr Ittiporn stated. Thaksin, who remains an influential figure in the Pheu Thai Party, has recently vowed to reduce household electricity bills to 3.70 Baht per unit, from the current rate of 4.15 Baht. This bold 11% reduction promise has sparked speculation over its legality, especially since Thaksin's daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, promptly echoed this as an official government policy soon after his announcement. Mr Ittiporn reaffirmed the EC's diligent monitoring of electioneering activities nationwide, assuring that speeches from Thaksin and other political figures will undergo scrutiny by designated investigative committees. These bodies are charged with probing potential election fraud, focusing on both violations of election laws and breaches of the organic law governing political parties. Addressing concerns about political parties leveraging government policies to woo voters ahead of the February 1 provincial elections, Mr Ittiporn explained that any references to the national policies must be valid and relevant to be permissible. "The EC has a team in every province to do this job. So far there have not been any significant irregularities. But the electioneering is expected to intensify," he added. Clarifying the role of MPs and cabinet ministers in supporting candidates, Mr Ittiporn stated they are permitted to participate as campaign assistants, provided they notify the EC of their intentions. This guidance aims to ensure transparency and prevent any undue influence in the local electoral process. As the political landscape heats up, the EC's examination of Thaksin's campaign activities could have significant implications for the forthcoming elections. With his promises potentially shaping government policies, the intersection of campaign pledges and governance continues to blur, intriguing observers keen on the balance of political influence in Thailand, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-09

Fears of Chinese New Year Tourist Drop Amid Human Trafficking Alarm Bangkok Chinatown. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Concerns are mounting over a potential slump in Chinese tourist numbers during the forthcoming Lunar New Year, as a recent human trafficking incident involving a Chinese celebrity is projected to dent visitor confidence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348332-fears-of-chinese-new-year-tourist-drop-amid-human-trafficking-alarm/

Bangkok Chinatown. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Concerns are mounting over a potential slump in Chinese tourist numbers during the forthcoming Lunar New Year, as a recent human trafficking incident involving a Chinese celebrity is projected to dent visitor confidence. The Association of Thai Travel Agents (Atta) warns of a possible 10-20% decline in arrivals, potentially impacting Thailand's tourism revival. The alarming narrative unfolded after a Chinese actor was entangled in a human trafficking ring that allegedly exploited Thailand as a transit hub. The incident has sparked widespread media coverage in China, prompting fears of ripples through the tourism sector. Atta president Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn underscores the urgency for Thai authorities to swiftly restore confidence by demonstrating robust measures against such illegal activities. "Although the news has been significant in China, we believe the impact can be mitigated if authorities act decisively to assure safety and counter misconceptions," said Mr Sisdivachr. Prompt police intervention, which led to the swift rescue of the actor, may soften the blow, but the alarm over scams persists. Strengthening collaboration with the Chinese government is vital, Mr Sisdivachr highlights. Emphasis is being placed on increasing public awareness in China about deceptive tactics used by scammers, such as offering fake job opportunities using a Chinese-speaking front. Despite the scandal, hopes for substantial growth in Chinese tourism for 2025 were already tempered. With 6.73 million Chinese tourists visiting Thailand in 2024, a modest increase to 7 million is anticipated for the current year. However, Mr Sisdivachr points out that the allure of nearby destinations like Japan, bolstered by a weaker yen and relaxed visa restrictions, might draw Chinese tourists away from Thailand. Additionally, Beijing seems to be promoting domestic tourism amid economic slowdown, with Chinese cities developing new attractions to retain travelers within their borders. "Thailand's position as a favoured destination may falter unless we offer innovative tourism products to Chinese visitors," warns Mr Sisdivachr. Despite ambitious plans to enhance tourism revenue through entertainment complexes and legalised casinos, this strategy might fall short in recapturing the Chinese market, given Macau's established reputation for gambling. In conclusion, while the desire for casino tourism is relatively niche, the urgent need for strategic adaptation remains apparent. If Thailand aims to retain its status as a prime destination for Chinese tourists, it must pivot towards diverse, innovative offerings that cater to broader travel preferences beyond gambling, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-09

UPDATE: Russian Held in Brutal Hotel Robbery Linked to Crypto Feud Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Hotnews A Russian man has been apprehended in connection with the violent robbery of another Russian man at a hotel in Karon. The incident, which unfolded this past Sunday, has been linked to an alleged cryptocurrency dispute, underscoring the global reach of digital currency tensions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348064-ruble-trouble-russian-tourist-robbed-and-roughed-up-in-phuket/page/2/#findComment-19500507

Russian Held in Brutal Hotel Robbery Linked to Crypto Feud Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Hotnews A Russian man has been apprehended in connection with the violent robbery of another Russian man at a hotel in Karon. The incident, which unfolded this past Sunday, has been linked to an alleged cryptocurrency dispute, underscoring the global reach of digital currency tensions. Andrei Veselov, aged 37, is now in police custody following his involvement in orchestrating the attack on Zelimkhan Iusupov, a 31-year-old fellow Russian national. Authorities, refraining from disclosing the exact circumstances of Veselov's arrest, have confirmed that he is being held for questioning. Pol Lt Col Saranu Chamnanrat has taken a personal interest in the case, leading the investigation and interrogation at Karon Police Station. However, initial attempts to glean information from Veselov have hit a linguistic wall, as his proficiency in English is lacking. Veselov's insistence on consulting with his lawyer before speaking further compounds the delay in uncovering additional details. The harrowing event in question occurred at a hotel located near the bustling Karon Night Market. On that fateful evening, Veselov's accomplice, strongly suspected to be Dmitrii Kuznetsov, 36, allegedly forced entry into Mr Iusupov's room. The confrontation quickly turned violent as Mr Iusupov was viciously assaulted and bound with tape and electrical wire. According to police reports, the motive behind the attack was a cryptocurrency dispute. Kuznetsov, purportedly directed by Veselov, demanded the return of a hefty digital currency sum. This culminated in a menacing demand for US$120,000, roughly 4.5 million Thai Baht, in cryptocurrency, along with threats against Mr Iusupov's life should he fail to comply. Despite withstanding the intimidation, Mr Iusupov refused to divulge his cryptocurrency wallet access details. Subsequently, Kuznetsov reportedly ransacked Mr Iusupov's possessions, stealing between 50 and 70 $100 bills, equivalent to approximately 170,000 to 240,000 Baht. The brutal encounter left Mr Iusupov unconscious, bound to a bathroom door rail. Remarkably, after regaining consciousness, Mr Iusupov managed to free himself and swiftly reported the incident to local authorities. The assailant, Kuznetsov, had entered Thailand mere hours prior to the attack and fled to Dubai the following morning. Efforts to apprehend Kuznetsov are underway, with Karon Police seeking an Interpol Red Notice to secure his arrest. Meanwhile, Mr Iusupov has relocated to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, presumably seeking safer grounds as the investigation proceeds. This incident not only highlights the personal risks associated with cryptocurrency disputes but also underlines the necessity for enhanced international cooperation in tackling such cross-border criminal activities. -- 2025-01-09

Drunk Man Sets Fire to Police Officer's Bike, Faces Arson Charges A 48-year-old man, in an intoxicated state, set fire to a police officer's motorcycle, believing it had been confiscated, only for it to emerge that he had simply forgotten where he parked it. The incident has resulted in arson charges being filed against him. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348321-drunk-man-sets-fire-to-police-officers-bike-faces-arson-charges/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A 48-year-old man, in an intoxicated state, set fire to a police officer's motorcycle, believing it had been confiscated, only for it to emerge that he had simply forgotten where he parked it. The incident has resulted in arson charges being filed against him. The incident unfolded in the early hours in Nang Rong District, Buriram Province. Mr Theerapol, also known as Kong, was arrested after he set fire to a Honda Wave motorcycle at a police checkpoint. This vehicle belonged to Lieutenant Narubet Panshumsaeng, who was at the checkpoint at the time. A muddled Mr Theerapol, during questioning, admitted to the arson. Describing his actions, he confessed that, driven by alcohol and anger over his assumed vehicle impoundment, he lit the officer’s motorcycle on fire using a lighter. However, upon sobering up, Mr Theerapol realised that his own motorcycle was actually parked across the street, not seized as he had assumed. Lieutenant Narubet recounted that Mr Theerapol, evidently intoxicated, had approached him at the checkpoint, claiming that the police had taken his vehicle. Despite multiple explanations that no such seizure had occurred, Mr Theerapol remained agitated and combative. Shortly thereafter, the officer noticed flames near the checkpoint and discovered his bike ablaze. Efforts to extinguish the fire were only partially successful, leaving the bike largely damaged. Following the incident, Mr Theerapol was detained and once sober, charged with arson. The case has been passed to the investigating officers at Nang Rong Police Station for further legal proceedings, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-01-09

Thai Suspect Arrested in Cambodia for Ex-Cambodian MP's Murder in Bangkok Picture courtesy Naewna In a joint police operation, a Thai national suspected of assassinating a former Cambodian MP in Bangkok was apprehended in Battambang, Cambodia. This swift arrest follows the shooting of Lim Kimya, a former member of the Cambodian parliament, on a bustling street in Bangkok's Banglamphu area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348317-thai-suspect-arrested-in-cambodia-for-ex-cambodian-mps-murder-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy Naewna In a joint police operation, a Thai national suspected of assassinating a former Cambodian MP in Bangkok was apprehended in Battambang, Cambodia. This swift arrest follows the shooting of Lim Kimya, a former member of the Cambodian parliament, on a bustling street in Bangkok's Banglamphu area. The alleged gunman, Ekalak Paenoi, a former chief petty officer of the Thai Marine Corps, was captured without resistance while dining at a local eatery in Battambang. After his arrest, Thai authorities expeditiously brought him back to Bangkok for thorough interrogation. The motive behind the brazen daylight murder, which has sent ripples through diplomatic and local communities, remains under investigation. Lim Kimya, a prominent figure in Cambodian politics, was reportedly visiting Bangkok, having travelled by bus from Siem Reap. His assassination has sparked widespread interest and controversy, with many questioning the circumstances leading to his death. Investigations suggest that Ekalak may have been hired by unknown parties to carry out the assassination. There are speculations regarding a collaboration with an unidentified Cambodian accomplice who allegedly assisted in tracking Lim Kimya. This accomplice reportedly pointed out the victim to Ekalak and later fled to Phnom Penh, evading authorities. The international implications of this incident have captured significant attention. The use of a cross-border escape route by Ekalak has raised questions about security measures and inter-agency cooperation between Thailand and Cambodia. Picture courtesy Naewna Following his arrest, Thai law enforcement have intensified their efforts to uncover the underlying network behind this high-profile crime. Ekalak's military background adds a layer of complexity to the investigation, prompting authorities to probe into personal connections and examine potential links to organised crime syndicates. This incident shines a spotlight on the broader issues surrounding regional security and the vulnerabilities surrounding border travels between Thailand and Cambodia. The swift cooperation between the two nations' law enforcement agencies in apprehending the suspect underscores their commitment to addressing cross-border crime. As the investigation progresses, authorities are not only focusing on bringing Ekalak to justice but are also keen to identify and apprehend any co-conspirators involved in masterminding this planned attack. In the face of such a high-stakes crime, diplomatic channels are likely to remain open between Thailand and Cambodia. Both nations remain keen to demonstrate their determination to uphold the rule of law and ensure justice for high-profile victims like Lim Kimya, all while focusing on strengthening the bond and cooperation required to tackle cross-border criminal activities effectively. In light of these unsettling developments, all eyes are on how this significant case will unfold in the coming weeks, both in the courtroom and beyond, impacting regional diplomacy and security dynamics, reported Nawna, Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-01-09

Mahout charged for elephant goring Spanish woman in Thailand By Bob Scott Blanca Ojanguren García picture courtesy of Pinoalbar Development School and Sky News Police in Thailand have charged the mahout responsible for the elephant that gored a Spanish woman to death last week in Koh Yao. The deadly incident has since ramped up intense scrutiny of Thailand’s elephant tourism industry. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348285-mahout-charged-for-elephant-goring-spanish-woman-in-thailand/

British tourists’ speedboat crashes into Thai mangrove forest - video By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo from screenshot of Daily Mail video A holiday speedboat carrying British tourists on an idyllic island-hopping adventure turned into a nightmare when the vessel smashed into trees in southern Thailand, prompting screams from panicked passengers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348305-british-tourists’-speedboat-crashes-into-thai-mangrove-forest-video/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 9 January 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1348289-thailand-live-thursday-9-january-2025/

Photo via MGR Online Kazakh man reports Phuket investment scam run by Ukrainian and Thai men By Petch Petpailin A Kazakh businessman filed a complaint with the Phuket Governor after being tricked by Ukrainian and Thai men into investing in a real estate project in the province. However, he has not received any profits from the investment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348281-kazakh-man-reports-phuket-investment-scam-run-by-ukrainian-and-thai-men/

Blanca Ojanguren García picture courtesy of Pinoalbar Development School and Sky News By Bob Scott Police in Thailand have charged the mahout responsible for the elephant that gored a Spanish woman to death last week in Koh Yao. The deadly incident has since ramped up intense scrutiny of Thailand’s elephant tourism industry. The 38 year old mahout, Theerayut Inthaphudkij, faces charges of negligence causing death after a tragic accident involving the 22 year old Spanish tourist in southern Thailand. The victim, Blanca Ojanguren García, was enjoying what should have been a memorable experience, bathing an elephant at the Koh Yao Elephant Care Centre. However, the day took a horrifying turn when the elephant, a 45 year old female named Phang Somboon, suddenly attacked, fatally injuring her. This grim event has cast a spotlight on the ethics and safety of Thailand’s booming elephant tourism sector, which has long faced criticism from animal rights advocates. These activists argue that activities like elephant bathing can disrupt the creatures’ natural behaviours and inflict undue stress. Experts suggest that the elephant may have been stressed by her interactions with tourists, potentially triggering the fatal attack. García’s grief-stricken boyfriend, who was with her during the incident, witnessed the tragic event unfold as the elephant’s tusk inflicted a fatal head injury. Despite being rushed to hospital, Blanca succumbed to her injuries. According to World Animal Protection, nearly 3,000 elephants are held in tourist attractions throughout Thailand. PETA Senior Vice President Jason Baker issued a stark warning in response to this incident, highlighting the inherent dangers to both humans and animals involved in such close interactions. “Any ‘sanctuary’ that permits human contact with elephants poses critical risks.” This is not the first time negligence charges have been filed against mahouts. A similar tragedy occurred in 2017, when an elephant in Pattaya killed a Chinese tour guide, leading to charges against the camp owner and a mahout, reported the BBC. Another alarming incident in 2013 saw an elephant’s tusks cut following a fatal attack. García was a promising law and international relations student at Spain’s University of Navarra, participating in a student exchange programme in Taiwan. Her tragic death occurred only days after she and her boyfriend arrived in Thailand on December 26. Spain’s Foreign Minister, Jose Manuel Albares, has confirmed that the Spanish consulate in Bangkok is providing assistance to Blanca’s family during this heart-wrenching time. RELATED STORY: Spanish student dies after being attacked by elephant in Thailand Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-08

600,000 Thai Students to Receive Learning Tablets by June File photo for reference only. Courtesy: Wikipedia In an ambitious drive to bridge the educational gap, the Ministry of Education in Thailand is poised to distribute learning tablets to 600,000 high school students by June 2025. This initiative aims to empower students with the capability to access learning resources anytime, anywhere, fostering a more inclusive educational environment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348225-600000-thai-students-to-receive-learning-tablets-by-june/