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Certain Camps Trying To Manipulate Senators: Premsak By Thai Newsroom Reporters Senator Premsak Piayura. Photos: Thai Rath CERTAIN PARTIES HAVE BEEN covertly attempting to mastermind the control of some newly-elected senators whilst others may already have been submissive to them now that the naming of a Senate speaker is approaching, according to Senator Premsak Piayura. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333411-certain-camps-trying-to-manipulate-senators-premsak/

CERTAIN PARTIES HAVE BEEN covertly attempting to mastermind the control of some newly-elected senators whilst others may already have been submissive to them now that the naming of a Senate speaker is approaching, according to Senator Premsak Piayura. The senator from Khon Kaen today (July 19) alleged the unidentified parties of clandestinely attempting to manipulate the naming of a Senate speaker and deputy Senate speakers among some senators who could probably be more or less influenced whilst others may already have been swayed by those political camps, albeit in very discreet fashion. Without naming names, Premsak said all 200 senators are legally obliged to be practically, invariably free of partisan influence when it comes to the deliberation of legislations being passed from the House of Representatives and particularly the naming of a Senate speaker and deputy Senate speakers scheduled for the upcoming Tuesday. By Thai Newsroom Reporters Senator Premsak Piayura. Photos: Thai Rath Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Senate Degree Scandal Exposes Thai Society’s Academic Title Obsession Keskamol Pleansamai. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath A recent scandal involving senatorial candidate Keskamol Pleansamai has shone a spotlight on the thriving market for fake academic degrees in Thailand, revealing the country's deep-rooted obsession with academic titles. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333410-senate-degree-scandal-exposes-thai-society’s-academic-title-obsession/

A recent scandal involving senatorial candidate Keskamol Pleansamai has shone a spotlight on the thriving market for fake academic degrees in Thailand, revealing the country's deep-rooted obsession with academic titles. Keskamol was found to have falsely claimed a doctoral degree and professorship, sparking an outcry and prompting an investigation into her qualifications. This case has brought renewed attention to a longstanding issue in Thai society: the ease with which individuals can purchase fake degrees to bolster their credibility and professional standing. The market for fake degrees is sophisticated. Numerous online services offer degrees from overseas institutions, complete with transcripts and graduation gowns. For an extra fee, buyers can even attend sham graduation ceremonies held in rented halls to add an air of legitimacy to their degrees. Assistant Professor Dr Singh Singhkhajorn, from Bansomdejchaopraya Rajabhat University, notes that "about 20 years ago, having a US degree was practically a guarantee of landing a job at a leading company. While many Thais rushed to study in the US, others used loopholes to procure degrees without really studying anything." Today, however, verifying a degree’s authenticity remains challenging despite advancements in information technology. Fake degrees have evolved from crude forgeries to more elaborate scams, where institutions issue seemingly legitimate credentials in return for a fee. In 2019, current agriculture minister Thamanat Prompow was also accused of possessing a fake doctoral degree. Though he survived the controversy, the incident underscored the pervasive nature of fake academic qualifications in Thai politics and business. Observers argue that Thailand's undue emphasis on academic titles drives this demand for fake credentials. Many professionals and public figures buy degrees to gain social respect and professional standing. “Actually, they may already have knowledge in their field, but many prominent figures want to look good so badly that they will pay for a degree,” explains Associate Professor Dr Weerachai Phutdhawong of the Coordinating Centre for Public Higher Education Staff. As the investigation into Keskamol's case unfolds, she risks disqualification, a potential prison term, and a long-term electoral ban if found guilty of misleading voters. This scandal could mark a turning point in how Thai society views and verifies academic achievements. Keskamol Pleansamai. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Austrian Rescued Trying to Jump From Hotel in Patong By Goongnang Suksawat Patong – An Intoxicated male Austrian has been rescued after he was trying to jump from a hotel in Patong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333409-austrian-rescued-trying-to-jump-from-hotel-in-patong/

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Patong – An Intoxicated male Austrian has been rescued after he was trying to jump from a hotel in Patong. The Patong Police told the Phuket Express that earlier this week they were notified of the incident at a hotel in Patong. They rushed to the scene with rescue workers to find the 58 year-old male Austrian whose name was withheld for privacy reasons. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe If you or someone you know is feeling depressed please reach out for help. The Phuket Express suggests the Samaritans of Thailand which can be reached here: https://www.facebook.com/Samaritans.Thailand/

Foreign Suspect Sentenced to 1,073 Years Imprisonment Over Patong Child Sexual Exploitation By Goongnang Suksawat Patong – A foreign suspect who was allegedly involved in soliciting underage prostitutes during a bar raid on Bangla Road in Patong last year was sentenced to 1,073 Years Imprisonment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333408-foreign-suspect-sentenced-to-1073-years-imprisonment-over-patong-child-sexual-exploitation/

Patong – A foreign suspect who was allegedly involved in soliciting underage prostitutes during a bar raid on Bangla Road in Patong last year was sentenced to 1,073 Years Imprisonment. On Friday (July 19th) the Phuket Provincial Court sentenced seven suspects which were both Thais and foreigners (The exact numbers of Thais and foreigners were not revealed. However, the fourth defendant who is the prime suspect which is a foreigner was sentenced in total to 1,073 years of imprisonment for the charges.) By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: The Phuket Express 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Gambian Man Arrested After Seven Years Overstay in Thailand Picture courtesy: The Phuket Express A Gambian man has been apprehended on Pha Ngan Island, Surat Thani, for an astonishing seven-year overstay. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333407-gambian-man-arrested-after-seven-years-overstay-in-thailand/

A Gambian man has been apprehended on Pha Ngan Island, Surat Thani, for an astonishing seven-year overstay. The Koh Pha Ngan Tourist Police report shows Mr. Saikou, 52, was arrested last Friday in Chalok Lham Village, Pha Ngan sub-district. The incident drew attention when Mr. Saikou allegedly exclaimed, "Bingo!" upon seeing the officers. Upon his apprehension, Mr. Saikou failed to provide any legal documents validating his stay, leading to his detention at the Koh Pha Ngan Police Station. Immigration records showed no trace of his entry into Thailand. Mr. Saikou confessed he had stayed in Malaysia after his last exit from Thailand and, having lost his passport, yearned to return. He collaborated with a Malaysian acquaintance who smuggled him back into Thailand for $200. Mr. Saikou stayed in Thailand with the assistance of Thai friends, reported The Phuket Express. After successfully re-entering Thailand, Mr. Saikou has resided on Pha Ngan Island with a close female friend since 2017. The woman claimed to be unaware of Mr. Saikou’s illegal status, stating she had never seen his passport. Mr. Saikou now faces charges of illegal entry and overstaying his visa. Authorities are processing his deportation, underlining the importance of monitoring visa compliance. The case highlights the length and complexity involved in tracking overstays, especially in remote locations like tourist-heavy islands. This situation serves as a pressing reminder for travellers and hosts alike to ensure legal documentation is maintained to avoid severe penalties and legal consequences. The Thai police continue to tighten immigration checks to prevent further incidences of long-term overstays. TOP Picture courtesy: The Phuket Express -- 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

A British driver was arrested after being caught on a dash cam crossing a central reservation in Wichit, Phuket City. The Wichit Police informed the Phuket Express that a video clip from a dash cam had gone viral on local social media this week. The footage appears to show an orange pickup truck crossing the central reservation on Chao Fa Suan Luang Road, behind Suan Luang Public Park (The Chalerm Prakiet Rama 9 Public Park). By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe 451127372_999661601891968_1682385855797078490_n.mp4

British Driver Arrested in Wichit for Reckless Driving- VIDEO By Goongnang Suksawat A British driver was arrested after being caught on a dash cam crossing a central reservation in Wichit, Phuket City. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333405-british-driver-arrested-in-wichit-for-reckless-driving-video/

Thailand affected by Microsoft cloud outage Thailand has been affected today by a Microsoft cloud service outage, apparently triggered by software distributed by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike, which has impacted many businesses worldwide, including AirAsia, a low-cost airline, and hospital systems. AirAsia announced on its Facebook page that the outage of Microsoft Azure has affected its reservation and check-in systems at all airports. As a result, the airline has had to resort to a manual system, causing delays for passengers. Passengers are therefore advised to arrive at the airport three hours before departure time. Meanwhile, Bangkok Hospital Surat, in Surat Thani province, has informed its patients that the outage has affected its IT system as well, causing inconvenience and service delays. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

30 Cars Stolen in UK Traced to Thailand, Returned to Owners British Ambassador Mark Gooding (left). Picture courtesy: MGR online Thirty stolen UK vehicles sold in Thailand have been recovered and returned to their rightful owners, announced at a ceremony today attended by Justice Minister Thawee Sodsong and British Ambassador Mark Gooding. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333403-30-cars-stolen-in-uk-traced-to-thailand-returned-to-owners/

Thirty stolen UK vehicles sold in Thailand have been recovered and returned to their rightful owners, announced at a ceremony today attended by Justice Minister Thawee Sodsong and British Ambassador Mark Gooding. The investigation began when UK authorities, through the National Crime Agency, requested help in locating 35 luxury vehicles stolen by a suspect named Mr. Inthrasak, also known as Boy Unity. The thefts occurred between 2016 and 2017, and the vehicles were smuggled into Thailand under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT). These high-end cars were fraudulently purchased through hire agreements from various UK companies. The group involved certified the vehicles as new to British customs, before flying them from Heathrow Airport to Singapore and then shipping them to Thailand. Picture courtesy: MGR online “Criminals imported the stolen cars through three companies, submitting documents and paying taxes to the Thai Customs Department to ensure their validity. They then registered the vehicles at the Land Department and sold them to unsuspecting buyers,” said Pol. Col. Yutthana Praedam, acting head of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI). A landmark raid by the DSI on May 18, 2017, at nine different locations in Bangkok resulted in the seizure of multiple luxury vehicles, including five BMW M4s, one Ford Mustang, one Honda GT Type-R, one Lamborghini Huracán Spyder, one Lexus, eight Mercedes-Benz, one Mini Cooper, three Nissan GT-Rs, five Porsches, two Land Rovers, and two Volkswagen GTIs. Picture courtesy: MGR online Legal proceedings were launched against Inthrasak and 12 other suspects involved in the operation. Mr. Watcharin Panurat, executive director for investigation, stated that the vehicles would be returned to the UK per legal requirements, and victims could file lawsuits against the companies that sold them the stolen cars. Last month, two victims won lawsuits against these companies, receiving full payment refunds. Today's ceremony marks a significant win for the coordinated efforts between UK and Thai authorities, ensuring that justice is served and stolen property is rightfully returned. TOP: British Ambassador Mark Gooding (left). Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 20 July 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1333402-thailand-live-saturday-20-july-2024/

Thai Man's Strange Behavior with Cows Linked to Marijuana Use A Thai woman reached out to the police concerned about her son's eccentric behavior following his use of marijuana, as she caught him talking to a cow. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333351-thai-mans-strange-behavior-with-cows-linked-to-marijuana-use/

Thailand has been affected today by a Microsoft cloud service outage, apparently triggered by software distributed by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike, which has impacted many businesses worldwide, including AirAsia, a low-cost airline, and hospital systems. Thailand affected by Microsoft cloud outage Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333401-thailand-affected-by-microsoft-cloud-outage/

Thailand faces disruptions as a global IT meltdown wreaks havoc across key sectors, impacting airports, banks, offices, and retailers. The crisis, attributed to a recent Microsoft Windows update by cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike, has left many organisations in disarray. Airports of Thailand (AOT), managing six key airports, reported significant delays and urged passengers to arrive at least four hours before departure. Among the affected airlines at Suvarnabhumi Airport were Cebu Pacific Air, GoAir, Hong Kong Express Airways, IndiGo Airlines, Jetstar Airways, Jetstar Asia, Scoot, SpiceJet, Thai AirAsia, Thai AirAsia X, and Norse Atlantic Airways. Don Mueang Airport also experienced difficulties, affecting Thai AirAsia, AirAsia Berhad, Philippines AirAsia, and Indonesia AirAsia. Phuket Airport saw interruptions for Thai AirAsia, AirAsia Berhad, Firefly Airlines, Scoot Tiger, IndiGo, and Jetstar Asia. Chiang Mai’s operations were hampered for Thai AirAsia, while Mae Fah Luang Airport in Chiang Rai and Hat Yai Airport faced disruptions from Thai AirAsia and Scoot Tiger flights. Beyond aviation, banks and offices struggled as systems went offline, hampering routine operations. Employees found themselves unable to log in and process transactions, leading to a cascade of issues. Retailers also faced complications, notably large department stores where IT payment systems failed, leaving transactions pending and consumers frustrated. In response, many businesses reverted to manual processes to maintain service continuity. Experts suggest the root of the IT chaos lies in the latest Windows update, though comprehensive solutions are still unfolding. As software patches and workarounds are rolled out, businesses and services are slowly regaining functionality. However, the incident underscores the vulnerabilities tied to global IT ecosystems and the ripple effects they can generate. Affected sectors are now focusing on recovery while assessing the broader implications for future IT security and resilience strategies. The incident serves as a stark reminder of our growing dependence on technology and the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures. Picture courtesy: Naew Na -- 2024-07-20 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe RELATED WORLD NEWS TOPIC Major IT Outage: Microsoft update disrupts airlines, banks, media, telecoms worldwide https://aseannow.com/topic/1333350-major-it-outage-microsoft-update-disrupts-airlines-banks-media-telecoms-worldwide/

Irish footballer fights for his life after bike crash in Thailand by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Sunday World An Irish footballer from Cork, in the Republic of Ireland, is battling for his life after a catastrophic cycling accident in Thailand. The horrific crash on Saturday, July 13, left the Tramore Athletic Football Club goalkeeper with severe injuries, prompting an outpouring of support that has raised over 46,000 euros (around 1 million baht) in just hours. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333335-irish-footballer-fights-for-his-life-after-bike-crash-in-thailand/

An Irish footballer from Cork, in the Republic of Ireland, is battling for his life after a catastrophic cycling accident in Thailand. The horrific crash on Saturday, July 13, left the Tramore Athletic Football Club goalkeeper with severe injuries, prompting an outpouring of support that has raised over 46,000 euros (around 1 million baht) in just hours. Rushed to Phuket Hospital, the Irishman, David Horgan’s condition was dire. Doctors discovered extensive facial and cranial damage, including a brain bleed, a deep forehead gash, multiple broken teeth, and a series of major fractures. The GoFundMe page, set up to assist with his mounting medical bills, paints a grim picture. A long-standing figure in Cork’s soccer community, Horgan has been with Tramore since childhood. His club, devastated by the news, issued a heartfelt plea: “We are reaching out to all of our members past and present, the local community in Douglas, Turners Cross and beyond, and the wider Cork sporting community. Our senior goalkeeper David Horgan was involved in a single-person bike accident over the weekend in Thailand.” The club’s statement reflects the widespread shock and urgency felt across Cork, reported Sunday World. The GoFundMe page further underscores the gravity of the situation: “The medical expenses are mounting quickly, and we kindly ask for your help to ensure that David receives the best possible care. David is a beloved friend, family member, teammate, boyfriend, and colleague. Known for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering spirit, we are devastated by this accident and are doing everything we can to support him during this incredibly challenging time.” In related news, a lifelong Doncaster Rovers devotee met a devastating end in Thailand, but his family is rallying for a heartfelt homage – with Wembley dreams in their sights. The family of a die-hard fan who tragically perished in a bike crash horror abroad is now fervently hoping for a Wembley win as the ultimate tribute. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Sunday World Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-19 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Vietnamese murder-suicide: Cryptic letter found, tour guide questioned by Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon Police discovered a suspicious message written in Chinese on the phone of the alleged killer of the Vietnamese nationals poisoned in a Bangkok hotel. A Vietnamese tour guide who bought medicine for one of the deceased is also under suspicion and is currently being questioned by police. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333330-vietnamese-murder-suicide-cryptic-letter-found-tour-guide-questioned/

Police discovered a suspicious message written in Chinese on the phone of the alleged killer of the Vietnamese nationals poisoned in a Bangkok hotel. A Vietnamese tour guide who bought medicine for one of the deceased is also under suspicion and is currently being questioned by police. Metropolitan Police Bureau officers are continuing their investigation into the murder-suicide case, which came to light after the discovery of six dead Vietnamese people at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Bangkok on July 16. One of the deceased, Vietnamese-American woman Sherine Chong, is suspected of poisoning the others with cyanide-laced tea before taking her own life. Her motive is believed to be a business dispute involving over 10 million baht. After questioning a Vietnamese tour guide, Phan Ngoc Wu, officers suspect three Vietnamese nationals of involvement in the murder-suicide: Thi Nguyen Phuong Lan, Hung Dang Van (both deceased), and Thi Nguyen Phuong Lan’s sister, who did not check into the hotel as planned. Thi Nguyen Phuong Lan’s Vietnamese-Japanese husband was also questioned. He denied any knowledge of the poisoning and insisted he was in Japan for tourism, not business. There is no report on whether police intend to question Thi Nguyen Phuong Lan’s sister. Money manifesto Police yesterday, July 18, summoned another Vietnamese tour guide, known only as Tiger, for questioning. Tiger purchased a restorative medicine called Snake Medicine Number 7 for Thi Nguyen Phuong Lan. Police confirmed that the medicine was not involved in the deaths but they continue to question Tiger for any information relevant to the investigation. Details of the questioning have not yet been made public. Officers also revealed the results of their investigation into the deceased’s phones. They found a suspicious message on Chong’s phone, written in Chinese, primarily about money. The letter reads: “Money is my servant, as it comes every time I need it, and it always comes in the amount I desire. I have a strong power. The more power I have, the more money comes. Love is the greatest power in the world. Love comes with money. I am the master of love, and money will always come to me. People who value money will never be poor. “The universe always gives me money because I support the universe and others. The earth always gives me money because I am always grateful for everyone and every dollar. All the land always gives me money because I love and care for everything. Endless money comes to me because love and power are flowing in my body. I have love, so I have money.” However, it is unclear whether Chong wrote the message herself or took a photo of it from somewhere else. It is also unclear whether the letter is related to any cults or Chong’s belief that could lead to the murder. UPDATE 3: Vietnamese tour guide reveals more on Bangkok hotel murder-suicide Further questioning of a Vietnamese tour guide, who served the six Vietnamese nationals before their deaths, revealed that another tour guide, named Tiger, may have known the source of the cyanide and been able to identify others involved in the murder-suicide case. Six Vietnamese nationals died from cyanide poisoning at the Grand Hyatt Hotel in Bangkok, with their bodies discovered by a hotel maid and security guard on Tuesday, July 16. Among the deceased, 56 year old Sherine Chong, a Vietnamese-American citizen, was suspected of being the murderer. According to the Metropolitan Police Bureau, Chong laced the tea with cyanide. It was consumed by all the deceased, including herself. The motive for Chong’s crime is suspected to be a debt of approximately 10 million baht. Chong reportedly invited each victim to invest in a hospital project in Japan but the project failed to progress, leading the investors to demand their money back. They travelled to Thailand and stayed at the hotel to resolve the issue. Channel 7 reported that three people in the deaths, including Sherine Chong, Thi Nguyen Phuong Lan, and Hung Dang Van, believed to be Chong’s husband, were the agents who invited others to invest in the hospital project. A 37 year old makeup artist, Dinh Tran Phu, and another couple, Thi Nguyen Phuong and Hong Pham Thanh, who died at the hotel, were investors. To confirm their suspicions and locate the source of the cyanide, police questioned the 35 year old Vietnamese tour guide, Phan Ngoc Wu, who had provided services to the group. Phan revealed that he met one of the deceased last year before assisting the group this year. The name of the person had not yet been revealed. Source of cyanide unknown After questioning the tour guide, police revealed that Thi Nguyen Phuong Lan asked the guide, Phan Ngoc Wu, to buy a medicine called Snake Medicine Number 7, for 11,000 baht. Phan Ngoc Wu then asked another tour guide, identified only as Tiger, to purchase the medicine. ThaiRath reported that Snake Medicine Number 7 is a restorative medicine that has been popular among Vietnamese people for over 10 years. The medicine comes in small, multi-coloured tablets packed in a plastic bottle. The medicine is only available in Thailand, so Vietnamese tourists often buy it to take back to their home country. Tiger delivered the medicine to Thi Nguyen Phuong Lan at a hotel near Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok. Officers are now reviewing security camera footage to locate Tiger. Phan Ngoc Wu further revealed that Thi Nguyen Phuong Lan’s husband, a Japanese businessman, asked him to exchange Vietnamese dong for 90,000 Thai baht and give the money to one of the deceased, Hung Dang Van. Channel 7 reported that Hung Dang Van later gave the money to Thi Nguyen Phuong Lan’s sister, who was supposed to check into the hotel but did not. After receiving the money, the sister immediately returned to Vietnam. Thai PBS reported that Thi Nguyen Phuong Lan’s Japanese husband asked the tour guide to search for his wife after being unable to contact her. The guide claimed to have searched for her around Bangkok before she was found dead in the hotel room. According to the media, Thi Nguyen Phuong Lan’s Japanese husband is currently being questioned at Lumpini Police Station in Bangkok. UPDATE 2: Murder-suicide: 6 Vietnamese deaths linked to 10 million baht debt Following the suspicious deaths of six Vietnamese nationals at a hotel in Bangkok, Thai police discovered that one of the deceased, a Vietnamese-American woman, allegedly poisoned her friends before committing suicide with the toxin over a 10 million baht debt. The Metropolitan Police Bureau of Thailand revealed more details of the case in a press conference, today, July 17, following an investigation into the deaths of the six foreigners, whose bodies were discovered last night. The deceased were identified as American citizens Sherine Chong (56 years old) and Dang Hung Van (55 years old), and Vietnamese nationals Thi Nguyen Phuong Lan (47 years old), Hong Pham Thanh (49 years old), Dinh Tran Phu (37 years old), and Thi Nguyen Phuong (46 years old). Dang Hung Van and Thi Nguyen Phuong were a married couple. Police questioned their children and found that they invested 10 million baht in a hospital project in Japan with Sherine Chong. The project had not progressed, leading to a dispute over the funds. The group, initially planning to meet in Japan to resolve the issue, changed their destination to Thailand due to visa problems. It remains unclear whether the other deceased were also investors in the project. Seven hotel rooms were booked for the group but only six individuals checked in. The seventh person, a sister of one of the deceased, was not involved in the incident. The individuals checked in on different days between July 14 and 15, later gathering in a room booked under Chong’s name. Hotel staff reported serving food and tea to the group for the last time at 1.57pm. According to the deputy police chief, a waiter offered to make tea for the guests but Chong refused this. The waiter recalled that she “spoke very little and was visibly under stress.” The waiter later left the room and no one else is believed to have entered apart from the six inside. Police say there were no signs of a struggle or a robbery. Police suspect Chong used this opportunity to lace the tea with cyanide, serving it to others before consuming it herself. Police believe her motive was an inability to repay the investment money. Cyanide was found in all six teacups, as well as in the blood system of one of the deceased and two stainless tumblers. Searches of their luggage did not uncover any illegal items but a land litigation document dating back to 2022 was found in Chong’s belongings. One of the victims, Dinh Tran Phu, was a well-known makeup artist in Vietnam with over 15,000 followers on his Facebook page, Phú Gia Gia (I’m Makeup Artist). UPDATE 1: Cyanide poisoning suspected in deaths of 6 Vietnamese nationals A Thai academic suspects that cyanide poisoning may have been used in the deaths of six Vietnamese nationals at a hotel in Bangkok. The deaths of the six Vietnamese visitors came to light at approximately 7.30pm, yesterday, July 16. They were found lifeless in the same room on the fifth floor of a luxury hotel, reported to be the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel, located in Bangkok’s city centre. The original report stated they were found on the sixth floor. Two of the Vietnamese nationals also held American citizenship. It was reported on DailyNews that each of them was frequent visitors to Thailand but the police have not yet confirmed this information. According to reports from Brick Info TV, each Vietnamese tourist arrived in Thailand alone. They checked into separate rooms located on the fifth to seventh floors of the hotel, later gathering in a single room on the fifth floor. The group had booked seven hotel rooms but only five members checked in. Despite this, six bodies were discovered in the room. According to the police report, they had not yet paid for their accommodation. Officers are also investigating whether there was a mistake in booking the room or if the seventh person did not attend the scheduled meeting. Upon inspecting the room, investigators found that six plates of Thai food had been ordered, all left untouched. However, empty cups in the room indicated that each person had consumed tea or coffee before their death. Two suspicious stainless-steel tumblers were discovered in the room, though their contents have not been disclosed. Additionally, officers located a packet of tea and two opened bottles of water and mineral water. Cyanide effect Samples of all the food and drinks were collected for further investigation, as poisoning is suspected to be the main cause of death. Officers also plan to investigate the luggage left unpacked in the room. Police further reported that the fingers and toes of the deceased had turned dark. However, this does not confirm poisoning, as it could be due to the bodies being undiscovered for about 24 hours. A well-known academic and professor from Kasetsart University, Weerachai Phutdhawong, suspected that the Vietnamese nationals may have been poisoned with cyanide. Phutdhawong posted on Facebook that he had seen photographs of the bodies and other evidence from the hotel room. He suggested that cyanide might be involved because each deceased person had bruises and pink skin. Furthermore, he noted that a person dying from cyanide poisoning would not exhibit foam at the mouth. The professor also highlighted that each Vietnamese individual appeared to have died suddenly, which is consistent with the effects of cyanide, known to cause rapid death in sufficient quantities. However, Professor Phutdhawong advised the public to await comprehensive autopsy results for each body, as well as the examination of the food and beverages found in the room. ORIGINAL STORY: 6 Vietnamese nationals found dead at hotel in Bangkok Six Vietnamese nationals mysteriously died today at a luxury hotel in Bangkok after allegedly drinking tea and coffee mixed with poison. Police believe there may be a seventh Vietnamese but that individual has not been located. The deaths of the six foreigners were reported to the Metropolitan Police Bureau at approximately 7.30pm today, July 16. They were reportedly found lifeless in the same room on the sixth floor of the luxury hotel near the Ratchaprasong intersection. The name of the hotel has not yet been confirmed, but some news agencies reported that it was the five-star Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel. According to a report on Brick Info TV, they were scheduled to check out today, and all of their belongings were packed up ready to leave. Several Thai news agencies initially reported that all of the foreigners had died in a shooting. However, police later confirmed that there were no traces of fighting or struggling found at the scene. The Commander of the Investigation Division of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, Teeradate Thammasutee, arrived at the scene at about 8.30pm. Teeradate reported that all of the deceased were Vietnamese nationals, and two of them also held American citizenship. They are identified as below: Sherine Chong (56 years old) Hung Dang Van (55 years old) Thi Nguyen Phuong Lan (47 years old) Hong Pham Thanh (49 years old) Dinh Tran Phu (37 years old) Thi Nguyen Phuong (46 years old) According to Teeradate, police suspected that the victims were poisoned, as leftover tea and coffee were found at the scene. However, officers will transfer the bodies to the Police General Hospital for a thorough autopsy. Regarding the motive for the murders, officers believe it might be related to a business or personal conflict among the deceased. Another possibility is that the deaths were a sacrifice to some cult. The Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police, Torsak Sukvimol, arrived at the scene at about 8.30pm. According to Torsak, each Vietnamese individual arrived in Thailand at different times and entered the country on tourist visas. The investigation into the cause and motive of their deaths continues. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-19 - Cigna offers a range of plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man arrested for gold necklace theft after 4-hour standoff by Petch Petpailin Photo via Amarin TV and Facebook/ Wiwat Panthia Police arrested a Thai man at an apartment in the central province of Samut Sakhon for the theft of a gold necklace worth nearly 130,000 baht, following a four-hour police operation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333324-thai-man-arrested-for-gold-necklace-theft-after-4-hour-standoff/