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Investigations continue into the cause of a major fire that swept through parts of Chinatown in Bangkok on Saturday evening that left one person missing and around 30 injured. Many elderly people were suffering from breathing difficulties, relief supplies were provided to those left homeless, the prime minister ordered authorities to continue to provide whatever support was necessary. One of two suspects involved in a 3.3-million-baht robbery last week in a Bangkok shopping mall car park was arrested in Laos. The 35 year old is one of two people suspected of robbing a 44 year old man who had just withdrawn the cash from a bank on july 3rd. Police said the suspect is a known criminal and is regarded as dangerous. A 44-year-old woman, suspected of a major investment scam causing over 5 million baht in losses, was arrested at a Pathum Thani temple. As a core member of a 2019 Ponzi scheme, she was traced by police to the temple she frequently visited and arrested on Saturday. The minister for transport has ordered disciplinary action against the Pink Line train operator after the crew opened a malfunctioning carriage door to retrieve a bag without waiting for the train to return to the station. The incident occurred while the monorail was stopped between stations, leaving passengers surprised by the sudden view down to the ground. Around the region. The Philippines and Japan are due to sign a key defence pact today that will allow the deployment of troops on each other's territory. Both countries longtime allies of the United States - have been deepening defence ties in the face of an increasingly assertive China. Tokyo's ambassador to Manila said Negotiations were "close to conclusion" Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thunder showers 34C degrees celsius Bangkok: thundershowers 33 Pattaya: Cloudy with thunder showers 31 Phuket and the south: showers 30 Hua Hin: Bright Cloudy, any showers may occur this afternoon, 31 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 2024-07-08 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Surge in Thailand-China Air Traffic Following Visa Exemption Deal File photo courtesy: China Daily Following the implementation of a mutual visa exemption deal, flights between Thailand and China have seen a dramatic increase of 213% over the last eight months. This surge is evidenced by the record-breaking number of flights, peaking at 55,433 from October last year to May. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331758-surge-in-thailand-china-air-traffic-following-visa-exemption-deal/

Following the implementation of a mutual visa exemption deal, flights between Thailand and China have seen a dramatic increase of 213% over the last eight months. This surge is evidenced by the record-breaking number of flights, peaking at 55,433 from October last year to May. The agreement has been a significant catalyst in strengthening bilateral relations and boosting tourism and economic activity between the two nations. Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote provided the figures and highlighted the projection of reaching 86,150 flights by the end of September. This unprecedented rise in air traffic necessitates substantial upgrades in aviation infrastructure and services. Notably, major Thai airports including Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi, along with regional hubs like Phuket and Chiang Mai, have been accommodating this increased flow from various Chinese cities, with Chengdu leading in terms of flight volume. In response to the growing demand, Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (Aerothai) plans to expand its capabilities to manage the burgeoning air traffic. Initiatives include the introduction of new parallel routes, advanced technological systems, and thorough revamps of airspace structure and management strategies. A pivotal focus is placed on enhancing Air Traffic Flow Management (ATFM) practices to ensure safety and efficiency. Further development is underway at U-tapao Airport, aiming to transform it into a central node for air cargo from the burgeoning Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). This initiative is part of a broader strategy to elevate the airport's role in global aviation, potentially making it a key aircraft maintenance destination. These expansions and upgrades not only reflect the booming air travel market between Thailand and China but also paint a broader picture of growth and opportunity across tourism, logistics, and the aviation sectors. As Thailand and China continue to deepen their economic ties, the trajectory for mutual advancement seems promising, supported by robust infrastructural frameworks. File photo courtesy: China Daily -- 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Krabi Airport Set for Surge in Flights This Winter Season Picture courtesy: National Neww Bureau of Thailand Krabi Airport is preparing for an unprecedented increase in passenger volume as 13 international and local airlines have scheduled additional flights for the upcoming winter season, officials announced on Wednesday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331757-krabi-airport-set-for-surge-in-flights-this-winter-season/

Picture courtesy: National Neww Bureau of Thailand Krabi Airport is preparing for an unprecedented increase in passenger volume as 13 international and local airlines have scheduled additional flights for the upcoming winter season, officials announced on Wednesday. This boost is aimed at servicing the anticipated influx of tourists heading to Thailand's famous Andaman coast from October 2024 to March 2025, which is considered the peak tourist period. Authorities are gearing up for an enhanced operational mode as major airlines such as Flydubai, Scoot Tigerair, and LOT Polish Airlines, among others, have expressed intentions to increase their flight frequencies. This development is forecasted to nearly double the weekly flight movements, significantly boosting the local economy by increasing tourism-related revenues. To accommodate the expected growth, Krabi Airport has embarked on a series of upgrades to ensure efficient handling of the surge in passenger numbers. These include expanding staff allocations during peak times, enhancing the maintenance of facilities, and implementing advanced passenger processing systems to streamline check-ins and reduce wait times. Notably, the use of the common-use passenger processing system (CUPPS) is expected to improve the overall transit experience by accelerating the flow at security and immigration checkpoints. The Minister of Transport, Suriya Jungrungreangkit, has emphasized the importance of these upgrades, stating that they are essential for sustaining the quality of service amidst the higher traffic. Additional measures such as improved public relations efforts are also being planned to ensure that travelers receive all necessary information efficiently. These strategic enhancements at Krabi Airport appear poised to support the region's tourism industry robustly, catering to the high demand during the lucrative winter months and reinforcing Thailand's reputation as a top travel destination. -- 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Arrest: Thai Woman Accused of Drugging, Robbing Tourist Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In a dramatic series of events, Pattaya police have apprehended a Thai woman linked to a disturbing crime involving a foreign tourist. The incident, unfolding in the bustling tourist city, stemmed from initial reports filed on June 20th at the Huai Khwang Police Station, Bangkok, where the tourist alleged he was drugged and robbed. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331755-pattaya-arrest-thai-woman-accused-of-drugging-robbing-tourist/

In a dramatic series of events, Pattaya police have apprehended a Thai woman linked to a disturbing crime involving a foreign tourist. The incident, unfolding in the bustling tourist city, stemmed from initial reports filed on June 20th at the Huai Khwang Police Station, Bangkok, where the tourist alleged he was drugged and robbed. The victim, whose personal details remain confidential for security purposes, accused the woman — identified as 33-year-old Kittiyakorn — of pilfering high-value items including a Rolex watch, a 430,000-baht gold chain, and several pieces of luxury clothing. The total estimated value of the stolen goods surpasses half a million baht. The duo reportedly met on a social media platform, leading to an in-person encounter at the tourist’s hotel in the Huai Khwang district of Bangkok. According to the tourist's account, the evening turned nefarious after he felt unusually dizzy and subsequently lost consciousness, suggesting possible drugging. Upon regaining his senses, he discovered his valuables were missing, and Kittiyakorn had vanished. Authorities launched a thorough investigation which culminated in Kittiyakorn’s arrest at her residence in Pattaya. During the arrest, officers retrieved a Rolex watch matching the description of the stolen item. Further background checks revealed that Kittiyakorn was no stranger to law enforcement, with previous theft allegations and outstanding warrants to her name. Kittiyakorn, currently detained, faces severe charges under nighttime theft. The case has sparked discussions about safety precautions for tourists and the importance of vigilance while engaging with strangers in foreign territories. This arrest is not just a resolution to a theft case but a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking in unsuspecting interactions, emphasizing the need for tourist safety measures in popular destinations like Pattaya. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fire Erupts at Car Assembly Plant in Sri Racha By Aim Tanakorn Sri Racha — A fire broke out at the Mitsubishi Motors auto assembly plant in the Laem Chabang Industrial Estate in Sri Racha on July 6th, 2024. The fire took over two hours to extinguish. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331751-fire-erupts-at-car-assembly-plant-in-sri-racha/

Sri Racha — A fire broke out at the Mitsubishi Motors auto assembly plant in the Laem Chabang Industrial Estate in Sri Racha on July 6th, 2024. The fire took over two hours to extinguish. At 2:00 PM Saturday July 6th, the Laem Chabang Police Station received a report of a fire at the Japanese car assembly plant located in the Laem Chabang Industrial Estate in Sri Racha district, Chonburi province. Police coordinated with firefighters and emergency responders before rushing to the site. There, authorities were met with a raging fire that was engulfing a pile of waste materials stored outside the plant building. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fatal crash at notorious Panthong bend leaves one dead, several injured by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A severe accident occurred at a notorious bend in Panthong, Chon Buri, resulting in the death of one individual and serious injuries to several others. The collision involved an Isuzu SUV and a Toyota pickup truck. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331750-fatal-crash-at-notorious-panthong-bend-leaves-one-dead-several-injured/

A severe accident occurred at a notorious bend in Panthong, Chon Buri, resulting in the death of one individual and serious injuries to several others. The collision involved an Isuzu SUV and a Toyota pickup truck. At 4.30am today, Kittikul Amatatrakul, Deputy Inspector of Investigation at Panthong Police Station, Chon Buri, received a report of a crash at the Christian cemetery bend in Khok Khinon sub-district. Responding swiftly, the police, along with the Sawang Uthayan Thammasathan rescue team, arrived on the scene to find a devastating situation. The accident involved a white Toyota Revo pickup truck with a closed box, registered in Bangkok, and a white Isuzu MU-X SUV, also registered in Bangkok. The vehicles were severely damaged, with the front of the Toyota crushed against the SUV. There were five people injured in the collision: two unidentified women in the backseat of the SUV, 32 year old Sathian, who was in the passenger seat of the SUV, and the SUV driver, whose identity remains unknown. The driver was found in critical condition without a pulse, and despite immediate CPR efforts by rescuers, he succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Net Chomthong, the 44 year old driver of the pickup truck, was also critically injured and trapped in the wreckage. Rescuers used hydraulic equipment to free him, taking 10 minutes to extricate him before rushing him to Panthong Hospital. Eyewitness testimony came from 26 year old Cake, who recounted the events from his vantage point at home. He heard a loud crash and immediately called emergency services. Fatal collision He speculated that the pickup truck was travelling from Hua Phai intersection towards Panthong, while the SUV was heading in the opposite direction. The bend where the accident occurred is known for frequent accidents, especially at night when vehicles often speed through the area. Cake suggested that the SUV might have lost control around the bend, leading to the collision. Thawatchai Chucherd, a rescue worker from the Sawang Uthayan Thammasathan rescue team, confirmed that the accident resulted in four injuries and one fatality, specifically the SUV driver. The severity of the injuries suggested high-speed impact, a common factor in nighttime accidents on this stretch of road, reported KhaoSod. Police found several beer cans in the back of the SUV, which they documented as evidence. The body of the SUV driver was transported to Panthong Hospital for a preliminary examination. Police plan to review CCTV footage to determine the exact cause of the accident and gather more evidence by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Targets 8 Million Chinese Tourists with Airline Expansion Picture courtesy: Wikipedia In a bold attempt to rejuvenate its tourism sector, Thailand has set a target to attract 8 million Chinese tourists this year, contingent upon airlines increasing their flight capacities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331749-thailand-targets-8-million-chinese-tourists-with-airline-expansion/

In a bold attempt to rejuvenate its tourism sector, Thailand has set a target to attract 8 million Chinese tourists this year, contingent upon airlines increasing their flight capacities. The Tourism Authority of Prachar (TAT) has announced that achieving this goal hinges on restoring flight seat capacity to no less than 80% of the numbers seen before the pandemic. Already, Thailand has welcomed 3.5 million Chinese visitors by the midpoint of the year, leading the pack ahead of other nationalities among the 17.5 million total foreign tourists. Easily surpassing arrivals from Malaysia and India, which stood at 2.4 million and 1 million respectively, the influx from China has been a significant boost. Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, TAT’s deputy governor for international marketing in Asia and the South Pacific, shared insights on the current status. He reported that for the ongoing summer schedule, which extends through October, airlines have scheduled 34,452 flights connecting 40 Chinese cities to Thailand, offering around 6.44 million seats—this represents about 80% of the capacity compared to pre-COVID-19 levels. However, fulfilling the lofty tourism goals will require more than just maintaining the current numbers. "To reach the 8 million mark, we need more seats on flights from China. This is challenging as both Thai and Chinese carriers are coping with a shortage of aircraft, with some prioritizing domestic routes," explained Chattan. The strategy includes encouraging Chinese airlines to establish routes to lesser-known Thai cities equipped with international airports, such as Chiang Rai, Chon Buri's U-tapao airport, and Surat Thani. This would not only ease the load on Bangkok's and Phuket's airports but potentially spread the economic benefits of tourism wider across the country. The upcoming Chinese Golden Week in October provides a timely opportunity, with TAT projecting a sharp rise in visits. By pushing for more direct flights and negotiating reduced landing fees with the Airports of Thailand (AOT), TAT aims to sustain this trend into the high season and hit their ambitious year-end target. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tragic Teen Brawl in Bangna Results in Two Fatalities Picture courtesy: Khaosod A devastating altercation involving a group of teenagers in Bangna, a district on the outskirts of Bangkok, tragically ended with two deaths and multiple injuries late last night. This violent clash underscores a worrying trend of youth violence in the area, shaking the local community to its core. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331748-tragic-teen-brawl-in-bangna-results-in-two-fatalities/

A devastating altercation involving a group of teenagers in Bangna, a district on the outskirts of Bangkok, tragically ended with two deaths and multiple injuries late last night. This violent clash underscores a worrying trend of youth violence in the area, shaking the local community to its core. The incident unfolded in Udomsuk 26 alley when an argument between two groups of teens escalated into a deadly confrontation. Authorities were alerted to the scene shortly after midnight, arriving to find a harrowing sight. Among the victims were Kittisak, 16, found deceased with severe head trauma, believed to have been caused by a heavy, blood-stained rock found nearby. Not far from this scene, Nopnai, 15, was also discovered dead, having sustained multiple stab wounds. A third victim, 16-year-old Payu, suffered a stab wound but survived and was rushed to Bangplee Hospital, where he currently remains in stable condition. Preliminary police reports suggest that the deadly encounter was sparked by a heated exchange involving accusations of inappropriate interactions with a girlfriend. This quickly escalated as both factions were allegedly armed and ready for a fight, leading to the fatal outcomes. In response to the tragedy, local law enforcement swiftly apprehended seven teenagers involved in the incident, including the injured Payu. They face serious charges, with investigations ongoing to unravel the full scope of this tragic event. The suspects were reportedly former schoolmates known to have ongoing disputes, often fueled by social media provocations, depicting a deep-seated rivalry that unfortunately turned violent. This incident highlights significant issues within the community concerning youth engagement and violence, prompting calls for increased policing and community-based interventions to prevent such tragedies in the future. Authorities are now working closely with families and community leaders to address these challenges and restore peace to the shaken neighborhood. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Minibus Carrying Tourists Overturns in Surat Thani, Injuring 10 Foreigners By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Matichon Surat Thani — minibus carrying many foreign tourists overturned on Saturday morning, injuring 10 foreigners. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331747-minibus-carrying-tourists-overturns-in-surat-thani-injuring-10-foreigners/

Surat Thani — minibus carrying many foreign tourists overturned on Saturday morning, injuring 10 foreigners. The accident occurred at around 6:30 AM on July 6th, 2024 on the Phunphin-Mueang Road in the Tha Lon sub-district, Phunphin district, Surat Thani province. Police and rescue workers arrived at the scene to find the minibus overturned on the side of the road. Ten foreign passengers had sustained minor injuries and were taken to Phunphin Hospital for treatment. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Matichon Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourists rescued after speedboat sinks off Surat Thani coast by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A speedboat carrying tourists on a fishing trip was hit by large waves, causing it to take on water and eventually sink. Five people were left stranded in the sea before being rescued by local fishing boats and the marine police. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331746-tourists-rescued-after-speedboat-sinks-off-surat-thani-coast/

A speedboat carrying tourists on a fishing trip was hit by large waves, causing it to take on water and eventually sink. Five people were left stranded in the sea before being rescued by local fishing boats and the marine police. At 12.20am today, the marine police received a distress call from relatives of the speedboat’s driver, alerting them that the boat was sinking. The marine police, led by Yuranan Meedet, quickly dispatched a rescue team from Surat Thani to the scene. Relatives of the victims reported that the boat was struck by large waves, which caused water to flood into the vessel. Despite attempts to pump the water out, the situation worsened, leading to the boat sinking. Onboard the speedboat were five tourists, four men and one woman, who were headed out for a fishing trip. As the boat sank, they were left floating in the sea, awaiting rescue, reported KhaoSod. Fortunately, nearby fishing boats came to their aid, providing initial assistance before the marine police arrived. The marine police then transported all five individuals safely back to Laem Thuat Pier in Don Sak district. In related news, the Sri Thong Pae 7 fishing trawler was engulfed in flames while refuelling in the Andaman Sea, leading to a rescue operation that saved the lives of nine crew members. The incident occurred on April 28, 15 nautical miles southwest of Koh Surin islands, off Phang Nga. Upon receiving the distress signal at approximately 3.30am, the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Centre Region 3 (Thai-MECC Region 3) initiated a rescue operation. The crew on board the ill-fated trawler consisted of two Thais and seven Myanmar nationals. Another fishing trawler, Charn Udom Sombat 1, spotted the blazing vessel about half an hour later. The crews swiftly evacuated the nine crew members from the burning ship and took them ashore. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Deputy PM Anutin Charnvirakul Questions Legal Implications of Cannabis Reclassification, Calls for Clarification By Kittisak Phalaharn On July 6th, 2024, Thai Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul responded to the Narcotics Control Board’s proposal to reclassify cannabis and hemp as narcotics. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331745-deputy-pm-anutin-charnvirakul-questions-legal-implications-of-cannabis-reclassification/

On July 6th, 2024, Thai Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul responded to the Narcotics Control Board’s proposal to reclassify cannabis and hemp as narcotics. Anutin reaffirmed Bhumjaithai Party’s stance that cannabis should be used for medical and economic purposes, not for recreation. Anutin questioned the rationale behind this reclassification, as it reverts to a previous status set by the same board during his tenure as Minister of Public Health. Anutin expressed concerns about the legal implications for community-level cannabis growers and questioned how the Thai government would address the thousands released for cannabis-related offenses in 2022. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian DJ Arrested After Hit-and-Run Accident in Surat Thani By Goongnang Suksawat In Surat Thani, a wanted Russian DJ found himself in police custody after a hit-and-run incident on Pha Ngan Island. The accident resulted in serious injuries to a motorbike rider. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331744-russian-dj-arrested-after-hit-and-run-accident-in-surat-thani/

In Surat Thani, a wanted Russian DJ found himself in police custody after a hit-and-run incident on Pha Ngan Island. The accident resulted in serious injuries to a motorbike rider. According to the Koh Pha Ngan Tourist Police, the incident occurred on July 30th of last year. Mr. Vigen, driving a white SUV, collided with a motorbike on Pha Ngan Island. The motorbike rider sustained severe injuries, but the SUV driver fled the scene. Law enforcement officers tracked down the suspect using nearby CCTV footage. On Friday, July 5th, authorities arrested Mr. Vigen, a 36-year-old Russian national, at a residence in the Baan Tai sub-district of Koh Pha Ngan district. He faces charges of reckless driving resulting in serious injuries and damage to other property. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

British Tourist Hurt in Pattaya Hit-and-Run Accident Picture courtesy: The Pattaya News In a concerning incident early this morning, a 76-year-old British tourist was injured in a hit-and-run accident in Pattaya, Thailand. The tourist, identified as Graham Hughes, was struck by a motorcycle while crossing the street in the popular coastal city. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331743-british-tourist-hurt-in-pattaya-hit-and-run-accident/

In a concerning incident early this morning, a 76-year-old British tourist was injured in a hit-and-run accident in Pattaya, Thailand. The tourist, identified as Graham Hughes, was struck by a motorcycle while crossing the street in the popular coastal city. The incident occurred shortly after midnight in a bustling area of Pattaya. Authorities and emergency responders were called to the scene, where they found Mr. Hughes with notable injuries. He suffered a dislocated shoulder and lacerations to his feet, conditions that prompted immediate medical attention. Eyewitnesses report that Mr. Hughes, who had arrived in Thailand two days prior and was returning from a nearby bar, was crossing the street when a motorcycle hit him at high speed. The impact was severe enough to knock him to the ground. Shockingly, rather than stop to assist, the motorcyclist fled the scene, leaving Mr. Hughes injured on the road. Local police are currently investigating the incident with the aid of CCTV footage from the area in hopes of identifying and apprehending the responsible individual. The accident raises questions about road safety for tourists in popular destinations like Pattaya, where nightlife often brings increased pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Authorities urge anyone with information about the incident to come forward as they attempt to bring justice to the hit-and-run case and assess the need for improved safety measures in the area. Meanwhile, Mr. Hughes remains in the hospital, receiving treatment for his injuries and further evaluation of his condition, reported The Pattaya News. Picture courtesy: The Pattaya News -- 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe .