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FILE photo for reference only ANALYSIS Thailand's dual pricing policy, where foreign tourists often pay more than locals at attractions, sparks ongoing conversation. This practice, grounded in economic rationale, sometimes stirs feelings of exclusion among visitors, leading to mixed reviews and accusations of inequity—although it's crucial to note the difference between nationality-based pricing and racial discrimination. Visitors to popular destinations, such as temples and national parks, encounter this tiered pricing structure, which charges foreigners higher fees compared to local residents. Supporters argue it boosts domestic tourism by offering locals affordable access to cultural sites and helps fund and sustain these attractions amidst the influx of foreign tourists. Defending this strategy, proponents assert it's necessary for the upkeep of the nation’s cultural heritage, ensuring its preservation for future generations. Opinions diverge sharply on this issue. Critics label it as an unfavourable practice that creates a rift between locals and tourists. Many visitors feel targeted due to nationality-based pricing, viewing it as an implicit form of discrimination. While not racially motivated, this differential treatment based on nationality can unintentionally harm Thailand’s reputation as a hospitable destination, provoking feelings of inequity among international travellers. Furthermore, the higher costs could deter some tourists, potentially affecting Thailand's competitiveness compared to neighbouring nations without such policies. Charges for foreigners can be significantly steeper, leading tourists to question the fairness of paying more for identical experiences as locals. Nevertheless, Thailand remains a magnetic tourist destination thanks to its diverse cultural offerings. Despite higher fees, many visitors continue to flock to its renowned sites, suggesting that the exotic appeal outweighs financial grievances, at least for now. Advocates for dual pricing insist that these funds are critical for sustaining the infrastructure and services that make the sites attractive and accessible to all visitors. The challenge moving forward lies in balancing the financial needs of maintaining tourist attractions with maintaining Thailand's image as an open and inclusive environment for all travellers. Exploring a more balanced pricing strategy that respects both local and global visitors might enhance Thailand's tourist appeal and mitigate feelings of exclusion. Transparent dialogue about the purpose and benefits could bridge divides, fostering a more understanding atmosphere among international guests and aligning economic strategies with Thailand’s longstanding tradition of warm hospitality, reported Pattaya Mail. -- 2024-12-06

Thai PM Paetongtarn Raises Concerns Over 15% VAT Proposal Picture courtesy: Money and Banking Thailand's Finance Ministry is contemplating a significant hike in value-added tax (VAT), stirring considerable debate among government officials and the public alike. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345478-thai-pm-paetongtarn-raises-concerns-over-15-vat-proposal/

Picture courtesy: Money and Banking Thailand's Finance Ministry is contemplating a significant hike in value-added tax (VAT), stirring considerable debate among government officials and the public alike. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra recently voiced her apprehensions regarding a potential increase from the current 7% to a hefty 15%. She acknowledged the stress such a change could impose on citizens, urging careful consideration. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira clarified on Wednesday that deliberations are in the early stages with the Finance Ministry "studying" the global tax landscape. "We are analysing both the advantages and disadvantages to secure maximum public benefit," he remarked, promising that public consultations will precede any official decision. Introduced in 1992, Thailand's VAT rate has been a stable fixture at 7%, despite occasional discussions about raising it to 10%. Currently, countries around the world impose VAT rates between 15% and 25%. Mr Pichai's comments were expanded at the recent Sustainability Forum 2025 in Bangkok, where he highlighted an OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development) directive recommending a global corporate tax rate of 15%. He mentioned a possible reduction from Thailand's current 20% corporate tax, in line with international trends. The personal income tax was another focal point. Thailand currently imposes a 35% tax on earnings, which Mr Pichai identified as high relative to global competitors who are slashing personal tax rates to attract talent. However, the base for personal income tax remains limited compared to a substantial base for consumption tax, signalling a need for restructuring. Mr Pichai argued that adjusting consumption taxes sensibly could bridge socioeconomic gaps. "An increased VAT rate could ensure wealthier individuals contribute more, with the generated revenue allocated to assist low-income citizens and bolster infrastructure," he suggested, adding that the adjustment must be timely, considering Thailand's ageing population. Lavaron Sangsnit, the finance ministry's permanent secretary, acknowledged these changes necessitate robust political resolve and should align with the nation's economic recovery trajectory. Critics, including opposition voices, are concerned about the repercussions on the public. People's Party deputy leader Sirikanya Tansakun took to social media platform X to oppose the proposed VAT hike, fearing impacts on salaried workers and the middle class. Similarly, Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana from the United Thai Nation Party warned of potential price surges in goods and services. In an attempt to manage the cost of living, the Thai cabinet recently decided to maintain the 7% VAT rate until September 30, 2025. Government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub confirmed the extension aims to temper inflationary pressures and promote spending, all while nurturing confidence in the nation's economic resilience. Converted to local currency, this analysis invites further public scrutiny and discussions around the proposed tax adjustments. The coming weeks will likely see more debate as stakeholders mull over the broader implications of such fiscal policy changes, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-06

7 Traffic Policemen Surrender Over Assault on Policeman's Son Picture courtesy: Daily News In a late-night development, seven traffic policemen accused of assaulting a police lieutenant colonel's son surrendered at Bang Khen Police Station, managing to evade the media in a somewhat chaotic scene. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345470-7-traffic-policemen-surrender-over-assault-on-policemans-son/

Picture courtesy: Daily News In a late-night development, seven traffic policemen accused of assaulting a police lieutenant colonel's son surrendered at Bang Khen Police Station, managing to evade the media in a somewhat chaotic scene. On 5th December, it was reported that these officers, from Traffic Control Division 1, were involved in an incident that left Mr Thanapon Kerdsri, aged 33, severely injured at a checkpoint in Soi Prasert-Manukitch 21, Chatuchak, Bangkok. They arrived individually at the station, taking great care to avoid journalists. Around 10 PM, men dressed in casual clothes and wearing jackets, suspected to be the officers involved, parked their cars and motorbikes at the back of Bang Khen Police Station. Meanwhile, with the media positioned out front, a group of about four or five policemen were seen hurriedly entering through a side stairway to meet investigators on the third floor. Later, at approximately 11.17 PM, two more officers arrived on a motorbike at the front of the station. Upon spotting reporters, they quickly dismounted and dashed into the station to avoid being photographed. The officers belong to Traffic Control Division 1 and are now part of an investigation into the serious confrontation, which has drawn significant attention due to its nature and the individuals involved, reported Daily News -- 2024-12-06

Thailand’s DES Ministry Blocks Access to Over 178,000 Illegal URLs Picture courtesy: Freepik In a decisive crackdown on illegal online activities, Thailand's Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES) has blocked over 178,000 unlawful URLs in just 14 months. This extensive initiative reflects both the ministry's commitment to cleansing the digital landscape and its effectiveness in doing so. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345465-thailand’s-des-ministry-blocks-access-to-over-178000-illegal-urls/

Picture courtesy: Freepik In a decisive crackdown on illegal online activities, Thailand's Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES) has blocked over 178,000 unlawful URLs in just 14 months. This extensive initiative reflects both the ministry's commitment to cleansing the digital landscape and its effectiveness in doing so. Minister Prasert Chanthararuangthong announced the remarkable figure, highlighting an increased focus on tackling online crime through collaborations with internet service providers. Between October 2023 and November 2024, specifically, 178,609 URLs were taken offline, achieving an average of 12,757 URLs per month. This marks a significant leap compared to the preceding period, where only about 17,670 URLs were obstructed—a rise of approximately 8.6 times the previous amount. The minister attributed this success to enhanced oversight capabilities and improved communication with internet service providers, enabling faster and more efficient responses. The process is robust: once illegal sites are identified, either through police alerts or the ministry's own discovery, swift action follows. The DES Minister seeks approval to proceed with court requests necessary to block these URLs. After securing a court order, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, alongside ISPs and online platforms, are tasked to block the offending URLs within a mere two to three days. Failure to comply results in stiff fines, an accountability measure that has already accrued approximately 21 million Thai Baht in fines from non-compliant platforms. This vigilant approach underscores the Thai government's seriousness about purifying its digital space. The crackdown extends beyond conventional illegal activities to include gambling sites, as well as fraudulent pages potentially harmful to the public. As online crime evolves, this proactive stance enhances domestic cybersecurity and projects Thailand as a leader in digital regulation within Southeast Asia. Further plans are on the horizon, with the DES Ministry aiming to develop even more sophisticated technical frameworks to pre-emptively tackle digital threats. This operation serves as a template, showing how governmental action can align with service providers to create a safer online environment for all users. The ministry's ongoing campaign against digital crime illustrates not just the complexity of managing internet safety but also the possibilities opened by decisive strategy and policy implementation. In fostering a safer internet space, DES reinforces the importance of vigilance and responsiveness to protect its citizens in an increasingly digital age, reported The Nation. -- 2024-12-06

Chinese Driver in High-Speed Collision Wreaks Havoc in Pattaya Picture courtesy: Daily News A 39-year-old Chinese man driving an Alphard van created havoc in the bustling city of Pattaya, leading to a catastrophic accident that damaged 12 vehicles, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries. The police have apprehended the suspect and are conducting an investigation, including an alcohol test. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345460-chinese-driver-in-high-speed-collision-wreaks-havoc-in-pattaya/

Picture courtesy: Daily News A 39-year-old Chinese man driving an Alphard van created havoc in the bustling city of Pattaya, leading to a catastrophic accident that damaged 12 vehicles, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries. The police have apprehended the suspect and are conducting an investigation, including an alcohol test. On the 5th of December, Deputy Inspector Lt. Sanan Kotanon of the Pattaya Police Station received reports of a major collision near Thepprasit Road involving several cars and motorcycles. The incident involved a fatality and left numerous people injured. Rescuers and police officers quickly arrived at the scene. Upon arrival, a crowd of shocked onlookers had gathered. They witnessed two pickup trucks that had been severely damaged near a petrol station. About 100 metres further, authorities found a black MG sedan overturned, with significant damage, and tragically, a 30-year-old man was pronounced dead in the vehicle’s wreckage. Nearby lay four damaged motorcycles and a black Chevrolet Cruze, all victims of this devastating collision. Approximately 200 metres away, the original vehicle involved—a luxurious van—was still attempting to flee. It eventually collided with a black Suzuki sedan, which then spun out of control, hitting nearby houses and injuring two foreign tourists. The chain reaction also resulted in damage to a bronze Mitsubishi Pajero SUV. The luxury van, a white Toyota Alphard, was driven by Mr. Zhang Yigong, a 39-year-old Chinese national, who appeared unresponsive and indifferent to the unfolding chaos. He was swiftly detained by police and helpful bystanders. Picture courtesy: Daily News CCTV footage captured sections of the incident, revealing the Toyota Alphard striking the rear of the MG sedan, flipping it over, and continuing to collide with parked vehicles before hitting the Suzuki sedan and the Pajero. The crash eventually halted the runaway van, which crossed the median and ended up in the opposing lane. This chaotic scenario left foreign tourists scrambling for safety as they attempted to escape potential harm. Preliminary findings by Deputy Inspector Lt. Sanan Kotanon confirm a total of seven cars and five motorcycles suffered extensive damage. Mr. Zhang Yigong, the driver of the Toyota Alphard, is being held for alcohol and drug testing to ensure a thorough investigation and legal proceedings that protect the rights of all involved parties. The aim is to provide clarity, accountability, and justice in light of this tragic incident, reported Daily News -- 2024-12-06 .

Canadian Tourist Dies After Slipping on Stairs at a Jomtien Beach Resort A Canadian tourist lost his life after slipping on a staircase and hitting his head on a statue at a resort on Jomtien Beach, Chonburi. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1345402-canadian-tourist-dies-after-slipping-on-stairs-at-a-jomtien-beach-resort/

Phuket Unfazed by Terror Threats to Israeli Tourists File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Phuket remains poised and undeterred despite recent warnings from Israel regarding potential terrorist threats targeting Israeli citizens in Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345411-phuket-unfazed-by-terror-threats-to-israeli-tourists/

Finnish Man Arrested for 10-Year Visa Overstay in Thailand Picture courtesy: Press People A Finnish national living in Thailand has been detained by Chiang Mai Immigration Police after overstaying his visa by an extraordinary 3,844 days, equating to more than a decade. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345417-finnish-man-arrested-for-10-year-overstay-in-thailand/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 6 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1345430-thailand-live-friday-6-december-2024/

A 38-year-old Australian man caused chaos in a housing estate in Pattaya, Nong Prue subdistrict, Bang Lamung district. The man was reportedly in a state of psychotic distress. He ran naked through the area, smashed vehicles with a metal grate, and ultimately set his rented house on fire. Australian Man Runs Amok, Sets House on Fire, and Smashes Vehicles in Pattaya Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345403-australian-man-runs-amok-sets-house-on-fire-and-smashes-vehicles-in-pattaya/

Pattaya Petrol Pump Fraudster Strikes Twice, Police Seek Swift Arrest Picture courtesy: TNA-MCOT A man driving a dark grey sedan has twice managed to charge up at a gas station in Pong sub-district, East Pattaya, only to leave without paying, pinning the employees with the bill both times. The manager of the station is now urging the police to swiftly apprehend the brazen offender following these incidents on November 20 and December 3. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345418-pattaya-petrol-pump-fraudster-strikes-twice-police-seek-swift-arrest/

Picture courtesy: TNA-MCOT A man driving a dark grey sedan has twice managed to charge up at a gas station in Pong sub-district, East Pattaya, only to leave without paying, pinning the employees with the bill both times. The manager of the station is now urging the police to swiftly apprehend the brazen offender following these incidents on November 20 and December 3. The man first appeared at the station in the early hours of November 20, around 2:30 AM. He filled his tank with 500 Thai Baht worth of gasohol and attempted to pay using an expired credit card, subsequently fleeing when the payment failed. After the unsuccessful transaction, the gas station promptly checked the credit card’s details, which led to the filing of a police report. Despite this, the same individual returned to the station in the wee hours of December 3, demonstrating equal audacity. At approximately 12:38 AM, he again fueled up with another 500 Thai Baht worth of fuel. Mimicking the previous scenario, he feigned the payment process only to escape once more, with employees mistakenly believing he had settled the bill with another colleague. Ms. Suratchana, the gas station's 26-year-old manager, has expressed her frustration over the recurring deceit. With the station staff having to shoulder the financial burden of his actions, she described the acts as not just audacious but disrespectful towards the law. Determined to see justice served, she has provided the police with comprehensive evidence, including CCTV footage capturing both incidents and credit card details, to aid in the pursuit. This evidence includes the man's vehicle license plate number and expired credit card information, all vital clues that Ms. Suratchana hopes will lead the authorities to swiftly identify and apprehend the culprit. The station remains optimistic that with these clear leads, the police will be able to prevent any further fraudulent attempts. The incidents have placed an added financial strain and stress on the gas station workers, who have had to cover the losses caused by the deceitful escapades. As the community in East Pattaya watches this unusual case unfold, there is a collective hope for a swift resolution, ensuring the offender is caught and faces the consequences of his actions, reported TNA-MCOT. -- 2024-12-05 The incidents have placed an added financial strain and stress on the gas station workers, who have had to cover the losses caused by the deceitful escapades. As the community in East Pattaya watches this unusual case unfold, there is a collective hope for a swift resolution, ensuring the offender is caught and faces the consequences of his actions.

Finnish Man Arrested for 10-Year Visa Overstay in Thailand Picture courtesy: Press People A Finnish national living in Thailand has been detained by Chiang Mai Immigration Police after overstaying his visa by an extraordinary 3,844 days, equating to more than a decade. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345417-finnish-man-arrested-for-10-year-overstay-in-thailand/

Picture courtesy: Press People A Finnish national living in Thailand has been detained by Chiang Mai Immigration Police after overstaying his visa by an extraordinary 3,844 days, equating to more than a decade. The arrest occurred on December 2nd in San Sai District within Chiang Mai Province, following a tip-off that led authorities directly to his location. The man's long-standing evasion of immigration laws ended when officers verified his overstayed status through the Immigration Bureau's database. He was promptly apprehended and now confronts legal proceedings that will culminate in his deportation back to Finland. Following his arrest, the man conceded to initially entering Thailand on a tourist visa and subsequently neglecting to renew or extend it after its expiration. Over the ensuing years, he adeptly avoided law enforcement to dodge capture, underscoring a significant lapse in compliance with Thai immigration regulations. This arrest is part of a broader initiative spearheaded by the Commander of Immigration Division 5, aimed at clamping down on immigration violations throughout the region. Authorities from Chiang Mai are reinforcing their dedication to upholding the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979), ensuring that foreign residents adhere to lawful entry and residency requirements within the Kingdom. The immediate aftermath of the arrest involves preparations for his deportation, as officials arrange for his return to Finland. Under the Thai legal framework, visa overstay is a serious offence, and deportation is not only a typical consequence but also serves as a stringent reminder of the importance of adhering to immigration laws. For many expatriates and tourists in Thailand, this incident serves as a stark warning about the penalties for flouting visa regulations. An overstay of this magnitude is rare, yet it highlights the potential repercussions for those who choose to sidestep legal requirements. The financial implications are significant as well, with fines for overstaying one's visa that can accumulate rapidly. Indeed, the maximum penalty for overstaying a Thai visa could rise to 20,000 Thai Baht, compounded by the legal process and subsequent deportation. Chiang Mai's increased vigilance in enforcing these rules sends a clear message to foreign nationals: compliance is non-negotiable, and the consequences of non-compliance are severe. As this case progresses to a resolution, it underscores the imperative for all foreign visitors to rigorously follow Thailand's immigration laws. While this man's decade-long evasion of the system is an exception rather than the rule, it serves as a compelling narrative for others to ensure that their stay in the country is both lawful and secure, reported Press People. -- 2024-12-05

Minister Dismisses Claims of Detention Rule Favouring Yingluck FILE - Thailand’s former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatr. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong has swiftly dismissed suggestions that a proposed regulation on detaining inmates outside of prison facilities might benefit former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra, who is currently a fugitive. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345412-minister-dismisses-claims-of-detention-rule-favouring-yingluck/

FILE - Thailand’s former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong has swiftly dismissed suggestions that a proposed regulation on detaining inmates outside of prison facilities might benefit former prime minister Yingluck Shinawatra, who is currently a fugitive. The regulation in question stems from the 2017 Corrections Act, which allows for alternative detention options for certain categories of prisoners, such as those who are seriously ill, pregnant, elderly, or deemed low risk for reoffending. However, Minister Tawee clarified that while the framework exists, additional operational guidelines and eligibility criteria need to be established before implementation. Minister Tawee emphasised that these additional rules require public feedback before being finalised and published in the Royal Gazette. The intention is to pilot the regulation carefully, ensuring its suitability and effectiveness. To qualify for this alternative form of detention, inmates would need approval from a specific screening panel, formed under the Department of Corrections. Only after these comprehensive criteria are fully developed will the regulation proceed to an experimental phase. When probed about the implications for Yingluck, who fled Thailand in August 2017, Minister Tawee categorically denied any connection. Yingluck was sentenced in absentia to a five-year prison term for negligence related to a rice-pledging programme that resulted in substantial financial losses, estimated at a hefty ฿500 billion. Recent remarks from Nipit Intarasombat, a former MP for Phatthalung, have stirred speculation. Nipit suggested that discussions are underway regarding Yingluck's potential return to Thailand, spurred by comments from her brother, former PM Thaksin Shinawatra. Nipit asserted that the new detention regulation might enable Yingluck to evade incarceration upon her return. However, the government has consistently refuted claims that the regulation is designed with Yingluck or any specific individual in mind. The intent is to explore humane and practical detention options within the legal framework, ensuring justice while addressing individual circumstances fairly and transparently. The ongoing discussions on the regulation underscore the complexities of balancing justice system reforms with political sensitivities, as Thailand navigates through its intricate political landscape, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-05

Phuket Unfazed by Terror Threats to Israeli Tourists File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Phuket remains poised and undeterred despite recent warnings from Israel regarding potential terrorist threats targeting Israeli citizens in Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345411-phuket-unfazed-by-terror-threats-to-israeli-tourists/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Phuket remains poised and undeterred despite recent warnings from Israel regarding potential terrorist threats targeting Israeli citizens in Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand. The threats were highlighted following the assassination of an Israeli rabbi in the United Arab Emirates, raising concerns for Israeli tourists in popular destinations like Phuket. The Phuket Tourist Association (PTA) has reassured tourists of their bolstered security measures. Bhummikitti Ruktaengam, the PTA's advisory chairman, emphasised that despite global conflicts over the past two years, Phuket has consistently welcomed tourists from all backgrounds without mishaps. He assured that local security forces are vigilant and prepared for any threats. Phuket boasts an extensive network of CCTVs, and thorough checks are in place at airport immigration points. Security patrols, both on land and sea, are regularly conducted by the Royal Thai Navy's 3rd Area Command, ensuring a secure environment for all visitors. As the high season approaches, Phuket's hotels are witnessing strong booking trends, with some even facing overbookings, according to Mr Bhummikitti. The constant flow of visitors indicates undiminished confidence in the island's safety. Adding to the confidence, Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, president of the PTA, remarked that additional personnel have been deployed by both Phuket's provincial and tourist police at key tourist attractions. The tourism scene remains vibrant, with Israel's national airline, El Al, maintaining its regular direct flights from Tel Aviv to Phuket, undeterred by any threat. Mr Bhummikitti pointed out that the major hurdle for Phuket's tourism industry isn't terror threats but rather the slow development of public infrastructure, which can sometimes lag behind the island's expanding needs. Data from the Tourism Authority of Thailand's (TAT) Phuket office shows that the island welcomed over 10 million visitors in the first ten months of the year, contributing approximately ฿390 billion. Despite global tensions, Israeli arrivals showed only a slight decrease, numbering around 57,000 within the same period. Lerdchai Wangtrakoondee, director of TAT's Phuket office, expressed optimism for the year's tourism revenue, anticipating a new high between ฿450 billion and ฿500 billion, surpassing 2019's record of ฿440 billion. The diversity of Phuket’s tourism, attracting visitors from Australia to Saudi Arabia, underscores the resilient appeal of this tropical haven. Phuket's robust security frameworks and enduring allure make it a steadfast destination amid a turbulent global backdrop, reassuring tourists of their well-being amid journey bliss, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-05

Photo via TikTok/ @tukgii3 Foreign driver at large after hit-and-run and chase in Bangkok - video By Petch Petpailin A foreign driver managed to flee following a hit-and-run in the On Nut area of Bangkok and a high-speed chase with Thai motorcycle taxi riders. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345357-foreign-driver-at-large-after-hit-and-run-and-chase-in-bangkok-video/

British Man Arrested for Sexual Assault of 6-Year-Old Thai Stepdaughter Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a shocking turn of events, Thai police arrested a British national, Mr. Luke, accused of sexually assaulting his 6-year-old Thai stepdaughter. The arrest, which took place in a condominium in Pattaya, Chonburi, followed a warrant issued by the Thai Criminal Court on 2nd December 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1345333-british-man-arrested-for-sexual-assault-of-6-year-old-thai-stepdaughter/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a shocking turn of events, Thai police arrested a British national, Mr. Luke, accused of sexually assaulting his 6-year-old Thai stepdaughter. The arrest, which took place in a condominium in Pattaya, Chonburi, followed a warrant issued by the Thai Criminal Court on 2nd December 2024. Major General Saruti Kwangsopha, Commander of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division, led the operation alongside other senior officers. Mr. Luke faces charges of "rape and sexual abuse of a minor under 13," among other serious offenses. The investigation began after Thai authorities received a tip-off from the UK's National Crime Agency (NCA). The agency uncovered disturbing videos of Mr. Luke abusing the child on social media. Upon reviewing the footage and identifying the location, police discovered that the victim, referred to as Miss A (pseudonym), was the young daughter of Mr. Luke's Thai partner, Miss B (pseudonym). The couple had been together for over two years. When presented with the evidence, Miss B was reportedly horrified and immediately filed a complaint with the police, leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant. Crucial evidence was gathered, resulting in Mr. Luke's capture. During questioning, Mr. Luke denied all allegations and chose not to provide a statement during the arrest. He has since been handed over to prosecutors for further legal proceedings. This case underscores the importance of international cooperation in tackling such crimes and serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to protect vulnerable individuals from abuse, reported Thai Rath. -- 2024-12-04