webfact

A Thai woman and her British husband rescued a puppy after a mentally ill Thai man abused the animal outside his restaurant in the Isaan province of Udon Thani. Officers from Mueang Udon Thani Police Station were alerted to the animal abuse at 11.20am today, July 11. They were called to the incident scene, a restaurant in Soi Adunlayadet 5 in Udon Thani. Police arrived at the scene to find the eatery closed and met the complainants at a nearby restaurant. The complainants were a 36 year old Thai woman Ratchanok Lueangsithong and her British husband, whose name was not disclosed. The foreign man was carrying a light brown puppy aged about two to three months. Ratchanok told police that her restaurant was located near the attacker’s restaurant, so she witnessed the abuse of the man, known as Boy. She saw Boy walking to his restaurant with the animal in his hand. He was carrying it by the neck and strangling it, making the puppy scream in pain. Ratchanok said she initially thought the puppy was a dead cat. She asked her aunt to check on the animal and found that it was a live puppy. Ratchanok then asked her husband to get the dog from Boy, but he refused to hand it over. “This is my dog. Here is Thailand. I can do anything with this dog. I can even eat it!” Ratchanok argued with Boy and threatened to record a video of the abuse and share it with the police. Her husband then took the puppy away from the scene. Boy returned to his restaurant and was not present when the police arrived. Ratchanok informed ThaiRath that Boy suffers from a mental illness caused by drug use. He had previously gone on a rampage, hurling various objects, such as a flower pot and a brick, at her restaurant. Although she had filed multiple complaints against him before, the police were unable to take action due to his mental condition. Chalida Dhammachaikun, a local who also witnessed the incident, told ThaiRath that she saw Boy press the puppy to the floor, strangle it with a rope, and kick it. She attempted to adopt the dog, but Boy refused. Police are letting Ratchanok and her husband take care of the puppy until its rightful owner claims it. The couple named the animal Lucky, as it was lucky to be saved from the abuse. Photo via ThaiRath Photo via ThaiRath TOP: Photo via ThaiRath by Petch Petpailin Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 12 July 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1332742-thailand-live-friday-12-july-2024/

Thailand tightens ‘feathered’ measures to curb avian flu outbreak Image courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health is tightening measures to prevent the spread of avian flu. Hospitals near the Cambodian border are on high alert following Cambodia’s report of its seventh H5N1 case this year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332725-thailand-tightens-‘feathered’-measures-to-curb-avian-flu-outbreak/

Public Health Minister ramps up mental health hotline services Photo courtesy of The Nation To combat the intertwined issues of mental health and narcotics abuse, Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin has directed agencies to ramp up hotline services for greater efficiency. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332724-public-health-minister-ramps-up-mental-health-hotline-services/

The Minister of Public Health, Somsak Thepsutin, confirmed that a recent poll affirms most Thai citizens are in favor of designating marijuana as a drug due to the concerns regarding its effect on youngsters. Approximately 100,000 participants took part in a June 11 to 25 survey. Thai People Support the Reclassification of Marijuana as a Narcotic Substance Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332711-thai-people-support-the-reclassification-of-marijuana-as-a-narcotic-substance/

Thailand plans 50 billion baht tunnel expressway in Bangkok by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Matichon The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) announced plans to construct a 50 billion baht tunnel expressway connecting Kaset and Ngamwongwan. Public opinion on the project will be gathered and considered on July 13. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332673-thailand-plans-50-billion-baht-tunnel-expressway-in-bangkok/

The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) announced plans to construct a 50 billion baht tunnel expressway connecting Kaset and Ngamwongwan. Public opinion on the project will be gathered and considered on July 13. EXAT Governor Surachet Laophulsuk revealed that the third public hearing will finalise the feasibility study for the northern section of the Third Stage Expressway System, specifically the N1 replacement segment. Initial plans suggest constructing a tunnel structure with a budget of approximately 50 billion baht. The route will begin at the Sri Rat Expressway-Ngamwongwan Road intersection, running along Ngamwongwan Road, passing under Phong Phet Intersection, Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, and Kaset Intersection, continuing onto Prasert-Manukit Road, and connecting the Northern Expressway Phase 3 Project, section N2. This route will cover a distance of 6.7 kilometres. Tomorrow’s meeting will finalise the construction format and gauge public support for EXAT’s proposal. Subsequently, EXAT will compile the feedback and present it to the Ministry of Transport and other relevant agencies for further consideration. Tunnel structure Surachet added that the Bangkok Northern Expressway Phase 3, section N2, which will be constructed from Prasert-Manukit Road to the Eastern Outer Ring Road of Bangkok, spanning a distance of 11.3 kilometres and will require an investment of approximately 16.96 billion baht. Currently, the detailed study, design, and environmental impact assessment for both sections have been completed. The new tunnel will aim to alleviate traffic congestion in one of Bangkok’s busiest areas, providing a more efficient route for commuters and reducing travel time significantly. This initiative aligns with the broader objective of enhancing Bangkok’s infrastructure to support its growing population and urban development. EXAT’s approach highlights the importance of integrating public feedback into the planning process, ensuring that large-scale infrastructure projects serve the best interests of the community. In separate news, villagers of Ban Rak Chat in Khon Kaen, have taken matters into their own hands to repair their deteriorating village road, which has become riddled with potholes and hazards, making travel perilous and causing frequent accidents. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Matichon Full story: The Thaiger 2024-07-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Japanese tourist rampage leaves trail of destruction in Pattaya by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod A Japanese tourist, in a fit of rage from an argument, drove his car into a popular Pattaya restaurant, crashing into numerous cars and motorcycles before finally colliding with a tour bus. This incident yesterday, July 10, left him injured and in police custody. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332171-japanese-tourist-goes-berserk-fights-girlfriend-rams-sedan/?do=findComment&comment=19056094

Japanese tourist rampage leaves trail of destruction in Pattaya by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod A Japanese tourist, in a fit of rage from an argument, drove his car into a popular Pattaya restaurant, crashing into numerous cars and motorcycles before finally colliding with a tour bus. This incident yesterday, July 10, left him injured and in police custody. Police Lieutenant Colonel Itthiporn Tangchuthaweesap of Pattaya City Police Station reported that they received a distress call at 9.36pm. A foreign man was reportedly driving erratically, damaging vehicles and property on Bua Khao Road in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung, Chon Buri. The chaos unfolded in front of a well-known entertainment venue where tables, chairs, and motorcycles were found toppled and damaged. Tourists and employees were visibly shaken. The perpetrator, a 60 year old Japanese tourist, was driving a white Toyota. He rampaged through Bua Khao Road to South Pattaya, hitting cars and motorcycles along the way. The entertainment venue security guard, 27 year old Somporn, revealed that the foreigner had an argument with his girlfriend, a staff member at the restaurant. In his fury, the man drove into the front of the restaurant, reversing and ramming three times, causing significant property damage. He then fled, sideswiping moving and parked vehicles. Somporn recounted the events. “We tried to follow and stop him but he wouldn’t stop. He kept trying to run us over. I was lucky to escape with minor injuries, needing six stitches on my finger and some abrasions. My colleague was also injured. “The perpetrator’s car eventually lost control and hit a tour bus, rendering it immobile. We quickly seized the car keys and pulled him out.” Drug use Somporn added that the man apologised, and he suspected drug use rather than alcohol intoxication. Fortunately, no one sustained severe injuries or fatalities during the incident. Rescue personnel provided initial medical aid to the tourist before transporting him to the hospital under police supervision. An employee of a nearby shop, 43 year old Jaruda, described the terrifying moment when the foreigner repeatedly attempted to align his car before accelerating into the restaurant where his girlfriend worked. “I feared he would crash into our shop. We tried to move our vehicles but couldn’t in time, so we ran to save ourselves… I even threw a bottle at him to stop him.” Jaruda mentioned that the staff did not take his threats seriously, which led to the disastrous outcome. Lieutenant Colonel Itthiporn has summoned all parties involved, including the Japanese man, to the Pattaya City Police Station for an investigation and to press charges accordingly, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

EC Certifies 200 New Senators BANGKOK, July 11 (TNA) – The Election Commission (EC) has certified 200 new senators and an additional 99 reserve candidates. However, one candidate from the group of 18 media representatives was disqualified and given an orange card. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332672-ec-certifies-200-new-senators/

BANGKOK, July 11 (TNA) – The Election Commission (EC) has certified 200 new senators and an additional 99 reserve candidates. However, one candidate from the group of 18 media representatives was disqualified and given an orange card. The EC Secretary-General, Sawaeng Boonmee stated that the EC meeting determined the Senate elections were conducted fairly and justly. Therefore, the EC announced the certification of all 200 senators and the 99 reserve candidates. However, one candidate from the group of 18 media representatives was temporarily disqualified (given an orange card), and the top reserve candidate was promoted to fill the position, leaving only four reserves in this group. The disqualified candidate from the group of 18 media representatives is Ms. Kordiyah Song-ngam, who was elected as a senator for Ang Thong. In her work history, she claimed to be a village public relations officer and a district public relations officer in Chaiyo. Full story: TNA-MCOT 2024-07-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Tops Favorability Ratings for China, Pew Survey Reveals Picture courtesy: Wikimedia In a fascinating revelation by the Pew Research Center, Thailand has emerged with the highest favorability ratings toward China compared to other surveyed middle-income nations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332172-thailand-tops-favorability-ratings-for-china-pew-survey-reveals/

In a fascinating revelation by the Pew Research Center, Thailand has emerged with the highest favorability ratings toward China compared to other surveyed middle-income nations. This report, published amidst NGOs discussing the geopolitical tension in notable regions, underscores a significant divide in global perceptions about China and its influence. The survey highlighted contrasting views based predominantly on economic lines, with middle-income countries generally viewing China more positively than their high-income counterparts. This disparity is stark, especially among neighboring nations in the Indo-Pacific region. For instance, high-income countries such as Japan and Australia have shown considerable skepticism towards China, largely due to ongoing geopolitical tensions. In contrast, Thailand's perspective is remarkably different, with 80% of respondents viewing China in a favorable light. This positive attitude extends to Chinese President Xi Jinping, whom a significant portion of Thai respondents trust regarding global affairs. This trust contrasts sharply with the skepticism observed in countries like Japan and Australia, reflecting varied regional dynamics and historical relationships with China. Moreover, the survey delves into concerns over China's territorial ambitions, particularly in strategic areas such as the South China Sea. While countries like the Philippines exhibit high levels of apprehension, Thailand's concern remains relatively subdued, which may contribute to its favorable view of China. This report comes at a time when global alliances and partnerships are increasingly influenced by economic interests and security concerns. It offers a nuanced look at how different regions perceive China, highlighting the complexities of international relations in today’s multipolar world. These insights are crucial as countries navigate their diplomatic and economic paths in an interconnected global landscape. Picture courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-07-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Russian man arrested for illegal business, bribe attempt by Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon A Russian man attempted to secure his freedom by offering a 1 million baht bribe to Thai police after being arrested for illegally operating a motorcycle rental service in Koh Pha Ngan, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332158-russian-national-arrested-for-overstaying-and-1-million-baht-bribery-attempt-in-surat-thani/?do=findComment&comment=19055454

Russian man arrested for illegal business, bribe attempt by Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon A Russian man attempted to secure his freedom by offering a 1 million baht bribe to Thai police after being arrested for illegally operating a motorcycle rental service in Koh Pha Ngan, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani. Pha Ngan Tourist Police received a tip-off about a foreigner working illegally in Thailand. Following further investigation, the man was identified as a 42 year old Russian named Denis, who operated a motorcycle rental shop called Bike Phangan Samui RENT SALE. Denis was found advertising his illegal business in a Telegram group. Most of his customers were Russian nationals living or travelling on the island. Tourist Police posed as customers and contacted Denis via Telegram to inquire about the service rates. Denis revealed to the undercover officers that he offered motorcycles for rent at 2,800 baht for a week and 2,100 baht for two weeks, with a 3,500 baht deposit required from each customer. After confirming Denis’s criminal activity, officers visited his house and arrested him yesterday, July 10. Five motorcycles used in the business were confiscated. Officers also discovered that Denis had overstayed his visa by almost six months, or 175 days. Denis admitted that he had never renewed his visa since arriving in Thailand and had been renting out motorcycles to make a living. During the arrest, Denis attempted to bribe the police for his freedom, saying he would ask his friend to bring 1 million baht to the officers within 20 minutes if they agreed to let him go. Denis said he would pretend nothing had happened and that the police could take their families out for a delicious meal. Police refused the bribe and took him to the Tourist Police Office for further legal proceedings. Denis reportedly remained cheerful even while in police custody. The man even gave a double thumbs-up while officers took his picture. Police revealed to Channel 3 that Denis was a leading mafia gang member in his home country. Full story: The Thaiger 2024-07-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Japanese Man Goes Berserk, Fights Girlfriend, Rams Sedan Picture courtesy: Channel 3PLUS In a startling incident that shook the quiet streets of Pattaya last night, a Japanese tourist, later identified as Mr. Yoshiyuki Yamaguchi, unleashed mayhem following an alleged altercation with his girlfriend. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332171-japanese-man-goes-berserk-fights-girlfriend-rams-sedan/

Picture courtesy: Channel 3PLUS In a startling incident that shook the quiet streets of Pattaya last night, a Japanese tourist, later identified as Mr. Yoshiyuki Yamaguchi, unleashed mayhem following an alleged altercation with his girlfriend. At approximately 9:30 PM, local authorities were alerted to a disturbance involving a vehicle ramming into objects and other cars along Soi Bua Khao, a popular night-time locale. Eyewitnesses say the ordeal began outside an entertainment spot where Yamaguchi and his girlfriend were reportedly embroiled in a heated argument. The dispute escalated rapidly when Yamaguchi, apparently enraged, got into his white Toyota Altis and deliberately drove into the establishment, reversing repeatedly into the structure. The scene turned even more chaotic as he proceeded to target nearby vehicles, causing substantial damage. Local patrons and tourists scattered in panic as the car zigzagged down the street, colliding with motorcycles and side stalls. Quick thinking by some bystanders averted potential injuries. One local guard attempted to intervene, narrowly escaping as he dodged the errant vehicle, suffering minor cuts in the process. The rampage drew to a halt after Yamaguchi's sedan careened into a parked tour bus, which prevented any further advancement. Courageous locals managed to subdue the driver until the police arrived. Preliminary assessments by police suggest that the driver might have been influenced by substances other than alcohol, contributing to his erratic behavior. Rescue teams were quick to respond, offering first aid before transporting Yamaguchi to a nearby hospital for treatment and evaluation. The Pattaya City Police, under the direction of Deputy Inspector R.T.O. Itthiphon Tangchuthawisap, have taken Yamaguchi into custody. They are coordinating with Japanese consular officials to further investigate the incident and support the ensuing legal processes. This unexpected outbreak of violence has rattled the Pattaya community, sparking discussions on tourist safety and the adequacy of current measures to manage public disturbances. As the case unfolds, local authorities are urging witnesses and those affected to come forward to assist with the ongoing investigation. Picture courtesy: Channel 3PLUS -- 2024-07-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Motorcyclist crashes into taxi after road rage incident (video) by Ryan Turner Image: video screenshot A motorcyclist, in a blind fit of road rage with a car, neglected to assess the surrounding traffic and rear-ended a taxi. The incident, captured on video and shared widely online, has sparked a flurry of comments from social media users. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332169-motorcyclist-crashes-into-taxi-after-road-rage-incident-video/

A motorcyclist, in a blind fit of road rage with a car, neglected to assess the surrounding traffic and rear-ended a taxi. The incident, captured on video and shared widely online, has sparked a flurry of comments from social media users. The heated dispute was posted on a Facebook page, with the clip showing a motorcyclist getting into an altercation with a car at a traffic light. The motorcyclist was seen hitting the car and making rude gestures. As the light turned green, he tried to follow the car but failed to notice the taxi ahead, resulting in a collision. The video cuts off shortly after the crash, but the caption posted with it reads, “Too busy cursing to look ahead, eh?” This remark, along with the video, prompted a wave of online criticism. Many users condemned the motorcyclist’s behaviour and urged him to take responsibility for his actions, fearing he might flee the scene. Incidents like this are a reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for drivers to remain focused and composed, even in frustrating situations. The motorcyclist’s actions not only put himself at risk but also endangered others on the road, reported KhaoSod. In a related story, a minor altercation between two road users culminated in a road rage incident, where a taxi driver collided with a motorcyclist, running him over multiple times and dragging his bike along the road for over a kilometre before crashing into a utility pole. In other news, a large python measuring over 4 metres was discovered slithering into the roof of a bathroom at a staff residence of a prominent company. The snake had previously bitten an employee, requiring nearly 40 stitches. The python was found again yesterday, July 9 at 10am. Rescue workers from Chachoengsao were alerted to the presence of a massive python inside the premises of a company in Bang Pakong district, Chachoengsao province. They immediately rushed to the scene equipped with the necessary tools to handle the situation. by Ryan Turner Image: video screenshot Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

27 Female Students Molested: Parents Demand Justice at Police Station Picture courtesy: TV CH7 In a deeply unsettling development, the Chai Badan police station in Lopburi, Thailand, became the scene of a major protest as parents of more than 27 female students alleged that their children had been molested by the principal of a local school. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332168-27-female-students-molested-parents-demand-justice-at-police-station/

Picture courtesy: TV CH7 In a deeply unsettling development, the Chai Badan police station in Lopburi, Thailand, became the scene of a major protest as parents of more than 27 female students alleged that their children had been molested by the principal of a local school. This dramatic step was taken after the students disclosed troubling encounters that reportedly occurred during school hours and various program activities. The alleged misconduct has shocked the community, which had placed its trust in the educational institution and its staff. The affected students, encouraged by their parents, shared their experiences in hopes of putting an end to their ordeal. These testimonies prompted a swift and decisive response from parents, who united in their demand for immediate justice and change. Authorities were quick to intervene, with the school director being reassigned to non-school duties pending a full investigation. This case has initiated a broader discourse on child safety and protective measures within educational settings. Law enforcement, coupled with child welfare specialists, has pledged to conduct a rigorous investigation, ensuring that all involved are held accountable. This incident not only highlights the need for stringent oversight in schools but also calls attention to the importance of fostering an environment where students feel safe and supported in reporting abuses. The community and authorities must now navigate the consequences of these allegations and implement stronger safeguards to prevent similar incidents in the future. -- 2024-07-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Heavy Rains Trigger Flood Warnings Across Thailand Today, the Thai Meteorological Department has issued alerts for severe weather across Thailand, predicting heavy rains that could lead to flash floods and forest runoffs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332166-heavy-rains-trigger-flood-warnings-across-thailand/

Today, the Thai Meteorological Department has issued alerts for severe weather across Thailand, predicting heavy rains that could lead to flash floods and forest runoffs. This situation is due to the strengthening of the southwest monsoon that affects the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand. The public, especially those in mountainous and low-lying regions, has been advised to exercise caution. The monsoon is intensifying across the region, accompanied by a low-pressure system over northern Vietnam, bringing widespread thundery showers. Bangkok is expected to see significant rainfall, covering 60% of the city, while the southern provinces face an increased risk of heavy downpours. With the sea conditions also turning rough, small boats have been advised to remain ashore as waves in the Andaman Sea could surge up to 2 meters during storms. This warning extends to maritime activities in the Gulf of Thailand where similar conditions are expected. The weather body forecasts unsettly conditions throughout the next 24 hours with notable disturbances in the northern regions such as Chiang Rai and Phayao, where heavy rainfall is expected. In the northeastern regions like Nakhon Phanom and Sakon Nakhon, the community is bracing for a 60% likelihood of storms that could lead to disruptive weather patterns. Residents and local authorities are preparing for potential disruptions. Relief measures, including the readiness of emergency services and provision of necessary resources, are being coordinated. People in affected areas are being continually updated through local media and government channels. The ongoing weather conditions are a reminder of the region's susceptibility to monsoonal changes, emphasizing the need for preparedness and timely response to minimize any potential impact on communities across Thailand. -- 2024-07-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 11 July 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332163-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-11-july-2024/

The Election Commission yesterday certified the list of 200 new senators and 100 reservists following the last round of voting at the end of June. The senators-elect are due to receive their certificates today and tomorrow, Around 800 complaints were filed with the commission which will carry out Investigations and may require assistance from the police. A House committee will invite residents from areas around a national park north east of Bangkok to discuss removing the protected status of thousands of rai of park land. Approved last year, the proposal has sparked debate between local residents and conservationists. 'Move Forward Party' MP. says The discussion to find a solution to the dispute is scheduled for July 17. The government says People who receive the proposed scheme to handout 10,000-baht will not be able to use the digital cash to buy mobile phones, or other electronic devices, The digital handout is due to be given to some 50 million eligible citizens at a cost of up to 500 billion baht. Immigration police arrested a Russian man in Bangkok believed to be ,a leader of a gang forging and selling passports of 15 nationalities, causing damage worth over 30 million baht. The passport forgery network advertised on applications such as, Telegram, WhatsApp, and through websites, claiming they could produce passports for 15 nationalities. A 24-year-old woman, well-known on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter),With over 100,000 followers, has been arrested for posting explicit videos and pictures of herself that reportedly earned her nearly one million baht. she was arrested at her home in Lad Prao. Officers seized her mobile phone and clothing worn during the videos, which were shot in a convenience store and several shopping mall parks Around the region. Japan: Residents in Tokyo said they aiming to block construction of a massive logistics and data centre planned by a Singaporean developer The 220 residents launched their petition following a successful bid in December by residents in another city to quash a plan for similar data-centre. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: cloudy thunder showers 32C degrees celsius Bangkok:cloudy thunder showers 32 Pattaya: Cloudy with rain and thunderstorms 31 Phuket and the south: Thunder showers 29 Hua Hin: Cloudy, with isolated thundershowers 32 AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-07-11 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe