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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 6 November 2024
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 7 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1342794-thailand-live-thursday-7-november-2024/ -
British and Dutch men arrested in Bangkok for drug trafficking Officers from the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) arrested a British man and a Dutch man at a condominium in Bangkok yesterday for drug trafficking. They were found in possession of 210 grammes of ecstasy and over 37 grammes of cannabis. Photo via Matichon Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342776-british-and-dutch-men-arrested-in-bangkok-for-drug-trafficking/
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 6 November 2024
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Thailand ranks No.5 for female secondhand smoke exposure by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of TRC Thailand is grappling with a significant public health concern as it ranks No.5 globally for the number of female victims of secondhand smoke. These women face a 1.24 times higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to those in smoke-free settings, according to health experts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342731-thailand-ranks-no5-for-female-secondhand-smoke-exposure/ -
Filipina's Viral Video Criticising Thai Women Sparks Backlash
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand News
Filipina influencer ‘easy Thai girls’ slam sparks social media storm (video) by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Daily News A Filipina influencer found herself at the centre of a social media storm after a video she posted went viral, much to the ire of Thai netizens. Known online as smartgirlphilippines the influencer ignited controversy across social media by launching a blistering tirade against Thai women, labelling them as “easy” and “money grabbers.” The provocative video, uploaded yesterday, November 5, witnessed the Filipina influencer making sweeping, and arguably offensive, comparisons between Thai and Filipina women. Her bold claims, branding Thai women as “easy” and “money-driven” while painting Filipinas as ideal life partners, attracted a wave of backlash almost immediately. The influencer, speaking in English, suggested that men visit Thailand purely for “good food and fast women” but insisted Filipinas were the superior choice for marriage. “Thailand is your girlfriend but the Philippines is your wife. Guys like to go to Thailand for the food and the fast women but Thai girls don’t speak English. They’re more transactional, whereas Filipinas speak English, love foreigners, and we’re more relational. Filipinas will treat you like a king and make you happy. You can date Thailand but you’ll marry the Philippines.” The provocative comments, further translated into Thai, have been met with heavy criticism from Thai users who slammed the post as not only offensive but also rife with stereotypes. Many commenters expressed dismay at the influencer’s portrayal of Thai women and lambasted the divisive generalisation of cultures. As the controversial clip continues its viral spread, it raises issues about the delicate balance necessary in cross-cultural discussions and relationships. The uproar serves as a stark reminder of both the connective and divisive power of social media, highlighting how easy it is to offend in today’s digital age. This viral video incident, widely reported and gaining international attention, underscores the cultural sensitivities involved in cross-national dialogues. It is a poignant example of the necessary caution required in navigating the global stage of social media, as reported by the Daily News. Filipina influencer 'easy Thai girls' slam sparks social media storm (video) | News by Thaiger Picture courtesy of smartgirlphilippines Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-06 -
Thailand is grappling with a significant public health concern as it ranks No.5 globally for the number of female victims of secondhand smoke. These women face a 1.24 times higher risk of developing breast cancer compared to those in smoke-free settings, according to health experts. Dr Roengrudee Patanavanish from Mahidol University’s Faculty of Medicine highlighted the pressing issue of secondhand smoke exposure in Thailand. Alarmingly, 70% of the country’s 34 million non-smokers are reportedly affected by secondhand smoke. During a seminar which focused on the dangers of secondhand smoke, Dr Roengrudee referred to a survey conducted in 2019 by the Burden of Disease Research Programme Thailand and the International Health Policy Programme. The findings revealed that an average of 20,688 Thai individuals succumb to diseases related to secondhand smoke annually. Thai females aged 15 to 49 are particularly vulnerable. Among 57 countries, they rank No.5 in terms of exposure to secondhand smoke, with 68% experiencing harmful smoke pollution at home. “The situation is concerning because, according to the British Journal of Cancer 2024 publication, secondhand smokers could have a 1.24 times higher chance of developing breast cancer than people living in a tobacco-free environment.” Breast cancer poses a significant threat to Thai women’s health, claiming over 4,800 lives annually, which equates to 13 deaths each day. It stands as the leading cancer among women in Thailand, with 18,000 new cases reported yearly. Dr Suwanna Ruangkanchasetr from the Tobacco Control Research and Knowledge Management Centre also emphasised the risks posed to children by passive smoking within homes. A survey indicated that 55% of Thai children aged one to five are living in environments where smoking occurs. These children are four times more likely to develop lower respiratory diseases compared to their counterparts in smoke-free homes. These findings underscore the urgent need for effective measures to mitigate secondhand smoke exposure, particularly in domestic settings, to safeguard the health of women and children in Thailand, reported Bangkok Post. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of TRC Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-06
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 6 November 2024
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Buriram mother bars her son: Prison bedroom sparks outrage by Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek A Thai mother in the Isaan province of Buriram is facing criticism and may face legal charges for constructing a prison-like bedroom for her drug-addicted son. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342730-buriram-mother-bars-her-son-prison-bedroom-sparks-outrage/ -
A Thai mother in the Isaan province of Buriram is facing criticism and may face legal charges for constructing a prison-like bedroom for her drug-addicted son. Journalists from multiple news outlets visited the house on Hak Road in Buriram’s Nang Rong district to interview 64 year old Saraphee and see the prison-like bedroom she built for her 42 year old son. Saraphee revealed that her son began using drugs at 16. She has sent him to more than 10 rehabilitation centres in various places including hospitals, army premises, and temples, but he always returned to drug use. The situation worsened when he became addicted to online gambling. He often forced her to give him between 100 and 200 baht daily to buy drugs and gamble. Saraphee disclosed that her son was recently apprehended on October 23 and sent to Nang Rong Hospital after going on a rampage. She admitted that she could not control him that day, so she had to call the police. Her son is expected to return home today, November 6. Saraphee explained that she lives alone with her son, as her husband had passed away. Part of the cause of his death was the depression and stress caused by their son’s drug addiction. Saraphee said she lives in fear for her safety and that of her community. Officials disagree Despite having a limited budget, Saraphee invested 12,000 baht to build a bedroom with iron bars for her son. She emphasised that the room includes essential amenities such as a bed, bathroom, and WiFi. Saraphee also designed a small opening through which she can deliver food and drink to her son and installed CCTV cameras to monitor his behaviour around the clock. She believes this measure would protect both herself and her community from his aggressive outbursts. Saraphee urged the government to take the drug problem seriously and eliminate both drugs and gambling from the country. She believes that many other families face similar issues and lack effective solutions. After Saraphee’s interview went viral on Thai social media, provincial administrative officials rushed to her home to investigate the prison-like bedroom, which is considered a potential violation of Thai law. The Nang Rong district chief informed news agencies that this action could violate Section 310 of the Criminal Code, which addresses unlawful detention leading to death or serious injury, punishable by imprisonment from three to 15 years. Officials stated they would seek better solutions for both mother and son. Saraphee urged officials to allow her to try the newly constructed room first, agreeing to follow their approach if her method proves ineffective. As of now, there are no updates on the government’s proposed solution. by Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-06
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 6 November 2024
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Weather alert: Thailand braces for chill in the north, rains in the south by Bob Scott Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Get ready for a dramatic weather shift as northern and northeastern Thailand is set to feel a temperature dip over the next 24 hours, while the southern regions, including Bangkok, face heavy rainfall and possible flooding. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342728-weather-alert-thailand-braces-for-chill-in-the-north-rains-in-the-south/ -
Get ready for a dramatic weather shift as northern and northeastern Thailand is set to feel a temperature dip over the next 24 hours, while the southern regions, including Bangkok, face heavy rainfall and possible flooding. The Thailand Meteorological Department (TMD) has warned that a monsoon trough will pass through the southern region, bringing moderate to heavy rains to the Gulf of Thailand and the southern provinces. Meanwhile, a cold front sweeping down from China is expected to cool down the northern and northeastern parts of the country by up to two degrees Celsius. Northern Thailand will experience cool mornings with thunderstorms expected in around 30% of the area. The worst-hit provinces will include Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Lampang, and Tak, where strong winds are also forecast. Expect minimum temperatures of 19-23°C and highs between 28-31°C. The mountain tops will be different, with temperatures plunging to a chilly 8-14°C. Up in the northeast, the cool mornings will be accompanied by gusty winds and a slight temperature drop of 1-2°C. Light rain is expected in certain areas, particularly in the lower parts of the region. Minimum temperatures will hover around 19-23°C, with highs reaching 28-32°C. On the peaks, temperatures will dip to 13-15°C. Further south, the central region can expect cool mornings too, but thunderstorms will affect up to 30% of the area, especially in provinces like Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Samut Songkhram, and Nakhon Pathom. Temperatures will range from 22-23°C in the mornings to 30-32°C in the afternoon. In the east, the weather will be similarly cool, with thunderstorms affecting around 30% of the region, particularly in Sa Kaeo, Chonburi, Rayong, and Trat. The temperature will range from 23-25°C overnight, rising to 30-32°C during the day. For beach lovers, be warned: the waves will be up to 1 metre high, and stormy areas could see waves rising to 2 metres. Southern Thailand is where the real weather drama will unfold. On the eastern coast, thunderstorms will dominate, with up to 80% of the area affected by heavy torrential rain. This includes provinces like Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Surat Thani, and Narathiwat. Expect minimum temperatures ranging from 22-24°C, with highs between 29-33°C. The sea will be rough, with waves reaching up to 2 metres, and possibly even higher in the storm-affected zones. On the western side of the southern region, a 60% chance of thunderstorms will cause heavy rain in places such as Ranong, Phuket, Krabi, and Trang. The temperature will range from 23-24°C overnight, rising to 29-33°C during the day. Expect stormy seas, with waves likely to exceed 2 metres in affected areas, KhaoSod reported. As for Bangkok and its surrounding provinces, the capital is in for a stormy stretch, with 30% of the area likely to see thunderstorms. Minimum temperatures will be around 24-25°C, rising to 31-33°C during the day. Winds from the northeast will reach 10-20 km/h speeds, making it a breezy affair. So, whether you’re heading to the hills for a chill or braving the downpours in the south, it’s clear that Thailand’s weather is about to turn dramatic – and you might want to pack that raincoat. by Bob Scott Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-06
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 6 November 2024
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Filipina's Viral Video Criticising Thai Women Sparks Backlash Image composite courtesy: Daily News A Filipino Instagram user, under the account name *smartgirlphilippines*, has ignited controversy online after posting a video criticising Thai women in a sweeping comparison to Filipina women. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342725-filipinas-viral-video-criticising-thai-women-sparks-backlash/ -
Image composite courtesy: Daily News A Filipino Instagram user, under the account name *smartgirlphilippines*, has ignited controversy online after posting a video criticising Thai women in a sweeping comparison to Filipina women. The video, posted on 5 November, includes remarks portraying Thai women as “easy” and “money-driven” and deems them unsuitable for marriage. The post quickly attracted widespread backlash from Thai netizens. In her video, she speaks in English, contrasting Filipina women’s supposed virtues with perceived flaws in Thai women. She suggests that men prefer visiting Thailand for its “good food and fast women,” but argues that Filipinas make better life partners. Her statement went as follows: > “Thailand is your girlfriend, but the Philippines is your wife. Guys like to go to Thailand for the food and the fast women, but Thai girls don’t speak English. They’re more transactional, whereas Filipinas speak English, love foreigners, and we’re more relational. Filipinas will treat you like a king and make you happy. You can date Thailand, but you’ll marry the Philippines.” In Thai, her comment reads: “ไทยคือแฟน แต่ฟิลิปปินส์คือภรรยา ผู้ชายชอบไปเมืองไทยเพราะอาหารอร่อย และผู้หญิงใจง่าย แต่สาวไทยไม่พูดภาษาอังกฤษ พวกเขาไม่ชอบชาวต่างชาติจริงๆ และพวกเธอกลับชอบเงินมากกว่า” This video swiftly drew criticism, with many Thai users condemning the post as offensive and stereotypical. Comments poured in, expressing disappointment and anger over her portrayal of Thai women. Many netizens pointed out the unfair generalisation and condemned the idea of using cultural stereotypes as a basis for relationships. As the clip continues to spread online, it highlights the tensions that can arise from public generalisations and the cultural sensitivities involved in cross-national relationships. This incident is yet another reminder of the power social media has to both bridge and divide communities, reported Daily News. -- 2024-11-06
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 6 November 2024
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Thai Govt Proposes Salt & Fat Tax to Boost Public Health The government is considering imposing new taxes on salty and fatty foods as part of a broader strategy to improve public health and reduce healthcare costs. This measure aims to address rising health issues like obesity, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342719-thai-govt-proposes-salt-fat-tax-to-boost-public-health/ -
Thailand's government is considering imposing new taxes on salty and fatty foods as part of a broader strategy to improve public health and reduce healthcare costs. This measure aims to address rising health issues like obesity, heart disease, and high blood pressure. The Ministry of Health has announced plans to explore this option in an effort to lower the nation’s overall sodium and unhealthy fat consumption. High levels of salt and unhealthy fats in diets are linked to numerous health problems, including cardiovascular diseases. With this proposal, the government plans to incentivise healthier eating habits and put further pressure on food manufacturers to reformulate their products. The proposed taxes would specifically target processed foods high in salt and trans fats, focusing on items often consumed by large numbers of people. The Ministry of Health is collaborating with public health experts, economists, and stakeholders from the food industry to assess the potential impacts of such taxes. They aim to ensure that any policy implemented is not only effective but also fair and economically viable for groups affected, particularly in the food production and retail sectors. Critics argue that the tax could raise food prices and disproportionately affect lower-income families; however, the Ministry is considering measures to mitigate these impacts, possibly through subsidies for healthier food options. They also propose a phased introduction of the tax to allow time for both the food industry and the public to adjust. If approved, the salt and fat taxes could be implemented within the next two years, making it a critical part of the government's health policy strategy. Public consultations are expected to take place in the coming months to gather opinions and refine the proposal's details, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-06
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 6 November 2024
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Opposition Questions Government's Intent to Control Thai Airways File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The opposition People’s Party has raised concerns over the Thai government's latest move to regain control of Thai Airways International (THAI). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342710-opposition-questions-governments-intent-to-control-thai-airways/ -
File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The opposition People’s Party has raised concerns over the Thai government's latest move to regain control of Thai Airways International (THAI). As the beleaguered carrier is set to exit court-mandated rehabilitative measures, Deputy Leader Sirikanya Tansakul queried the motives behind the government's sudden interest in managing the airline once more. The controversy stems from the administration's proposal to appoint two new managers to the airline's rehabilitation planning panel. These nominations are intended to succeed two members who recently resigned. The nominees are Polchak Nimwatana, deputy director of the State Enterprise Policy Office, and Panya Chupanich, director of the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning. They join a panel that includes Thailand's former Energy Minister Piyasvasti Amranand, Fiscal Police Office Director Pornchai Thiraveja, and ex-THAI President Chansin Treenuchagron. Sirikanya warned that if these appointments gain approval in the creditor meeting scheduled for this Friday, the state will effectively dominate the vote on the pivotal debt-to-equity conversion. This operation aims to address the company’s massive 60 billion baht debt ahead of its planned share price reduction. The government remains THAI's largest shareholder and argues for managerial influence over its rehabilitation. However, Sirikanya insists the panel should represent creditors, not shareholders. She expressed concern over perceived inequity: the government had previously extended a 12.8 billion baht loan to THAI and now seeks to exert a greater sway over decisions, potentially marginalising other stakeholders. The looming government control raises the spectre of past mismanagement when ill-advised fleet expansions led to significant losses. As THAI returns to profitability, Sirikanya urged creditors to reject this government proposal, stressing that any further intervention could hinder the airline’s planned return to normal operations, reported Thai PBS. -- 2024-11-06
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 6 November 2024
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
PM Paetongtarn Addresses Controversy Over Her Father's Hospital Stay Picture courtesy: MGR online The Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has stepped forward today, promising her cooperation with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) concerning the investigations into her father, Thaksin Shinawatra's, previous stay at the Police Hospital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342674-pm-paetongtarn-addresses-controversy-over-her-fathers-hospital-stay/ -
THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 6 November 2024
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Thai police report 90% arrest rate in crime crackdown Photo courtesy of KhaoSod The Royal Thai Police (RTP) reported significant progress in tackling crime across five key areas under the leadership of Police General Kittirat Phanphet over the past month. Since early October, police have addressed nearly 44,000 criminal cases, achieving a 90% arrest rate. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342670-thai-police-report-90-arrest-rate-in-crime-crackdown/ -
THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 6 November 2024
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Foreigners brawl on Patong Beach sparks criticism of Thai laws Photo by TikTok/ @aifkiatprasert via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A viral video showing two foreigners fighting each other on a road along Patong Beach in Phuket sparked criticism of weaknesses in Thai laws. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342685-foreigners-brawl-on-patong-beach-sparks-criticism-of-thai-laws/ -
THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Tuesday 5 November 2024
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 6 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1342677-thailand-live-wednesday-6-november-2024/ -
Picture courtesy: MGR online The Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has stepped forward today, promising her cooperation with the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) concerning the investigations into her father, Thaksin Shinawatra's, previous stay at the Police Hospital. The stay has drawn scrutiny due to allegations that Thaksin may have exaggerated his health conditions to avoid a jail sentence and instead receive privileged treatment in a private ward. In a statement at Government House, Paetongtarn confirmed she would assist the NACC in their enquiry, as permitted by law, though she did not specify the exact nature of her cooperation. The NACC had previously sought information from the Police Hospital’s executives but was reportedly denied details about Thaksin's six-month medical treatment before his release on parole earlier this year. Despite these assurances, the Prime Minister has yet to discuss the matter with the police chief, as the Police Hospital falls under the Office of the National Police's jurisdiction. Thaksin's health condition became controversial as he managed to avoid prison time in favour of hospitalisation, leading to accusations of him feigning illnesses. In parallel, there is anticipation regarding whether Thailand's Constitutional Court will entertain a lawsuit accusing Thaksin of illegally influencing his daughter's leadership of the ruling Pheu Thai party and the coalition partners through clandestine meetings at his residence. These claims of manipulation include his alleged role in despatching the Palang Pracharath from the coalition government and his influence on policy decisions. Thaksin is also credited with reviving a joint Thai-Cambodian project to exploit natural resources near Koh Kood island. This development is noteworthy since it followed a post-release meeting at Thaksin's residence with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-06
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Restaurant ‘beefs’ up search for customer who paid 200,000 baht A well-known beef restaurant has taken to social media to locate a customer who accidentally transferred over 200,000 baht instead of the actual bill amount of 2,020.91 baht. The incident occurred on Sunday, November 3 at the Ratchaphruek branch of the restaurant, Neua Luan Luan. Picture couretesy of Sanook Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342671-restaurant-‘beefs’-up-search-for-customer-who-paid-200000-baht/
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Tuesday 5 November 2024
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Condor jet declares mid-descent alert on Phuket–Frankfurt route by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Aviation Source News A Condor Airbus A330-900, en route from Thailand’s paradise island of Phuket to Frankfurt, Germany, triggered a high alert after declaring an emergency while descending to its destination. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342633-condor-jet-declares-mid-descent-alert-on-phuket–frankfurt-route/ -
A Condor Airbus A330-900, en route from Thailand’s paradise island of Phuket to Frankfurt, Germany, triggered a high alert after declaring an emergency while descending to its destination. Flight DE2369, operated by the German carrier, set alarm bells ringing as it squawked the 7700 transponder code, signifying a general emergency, just as it passed through 20,000 feet in German airspace. The incident unfolded as the Airbus, a 4.4-year-old A330-900 with the distinctive Blue Sea livery, was on final approach to Frankfurt am Main Airport. The aircraft, tail number D-ANRC, had begun its descent following a routine flight from Phuket, where it took off slightly later than scheduled at 6.04am local time, instead of the planned 4am. Flight data reveals that DE2369 initially climbed to a cruising altitude of 40,000 feet before it began descending towards Frankfurt. The situation took an unexpected turn when the crew initiated emergency protocols, maintaining the 7700 transponder code as they descended further, ultimately reaching 2,000 feet while still under emergency status. As of now, the specific cause of the emergency declaration remains unclear. Condor has yet to comment on what triggered the alert, and whether the issue is related to technical malfunctions or another concern. For now, all eyes are on the landing in Frankfurt, where emergency response teams will be on standby, ready to ensure passenger and crew safety upon arrival. This emergency comes just months after Condor took delivery of the A330-900 in May, adding the state-of-the-art aircraft to its fleet. While Condor Airlines has a reliable safety record, the unexpected mid-air alert has left many awaiting updates on the status of DE2369, reported Aviation Source News. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Aviation Source News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-05
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Tuesday 5 November 2024
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Thai nurse steals umbilical cord, placenta for illegal stem cell production by Petch Petpailin Photo via Thai Rath A Thai nurse at a hospital in Bangkok allegedly stole umbilical cords and placentas from newborn babies and sold them to a clinic to create growth factors and stem cells, which were then distributed illegally to more than 100 beauty clinics and hospitals in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342632-thai-nurse-steals-umbilical-cord-placenta-for-illegal-stem-cell-production/ -
A Thai nurse at a hospital in Bangkok allegedly stole umbilical cords and placentas from newborn babies and sold them to a clinic to create growth factors and stem cells, which were then distributed illegally to more than 100 beauty clinics and hospitals in Thailand. The shocking theft and illegal production of stem cells and growth factors came to light after a Thai woman, identified as Kookkai, filed a complaint with the Ministry of Public Health (MOPH) on October 24, urging the officials to investigate human organ trafficking. According to Kookkai, a nurse at a hospital in Bangkok secretly delivered umbilical cords and placentas from the hospital’s delivery rooms to a clinic in the Chatuchak district. ThaiRath reported that the hospital in question is Lerdsin Hospital in the Silom area of Bangkok, though the clinic’s name remains undisclosed. Kookkai explained that the clinic used the stolen placentas to produce growth factors and the stolen umbilical cords to produce stem cells. These products were later distributed to over 100 beauty clinics and hospitals across Thailand. Stem cells are believed to aid in repairing damaged tissues, treating diseases, and supporting regenerative medicine due to their self-renewing abilities. Moreover, it was advertised by multiple beauty clinics that it is an anti-ageing medicine. The nurse had reportedly been stealing this waste from the hospital for approximately seven to eight years, earning 10,000 baht for each item. She is said to have delivered the stolen items to the clinic via an app-based delivery service. Clinics raided The clinic’s owner is reported to be a young businessman whose wife is a judge. The clinic’s official website also claimed that his mother-in-law is a distinguished researcher and an advisor to the MOPH. On October 28, officials from the MOPH, the Food and Drug Administration, the Health Service Support Department, the Medical Service Department, and Consumer Protection Police Division 4 (CPPD 4) raided the clinic’s two branches. At the first location, officials seized evidence worth 10 million baht, including medicines, medical equipment, and devices. At the second location, they seized similar items of comparable value and found 18 tubes of a liquid substance suspected to be stem cells. No charges have yet been issued against the clinic owner or employees. The suspicious substance is currently under investigation to confirm whether it contains stem cells, with results expected within one to two months. If the clinic is found guilty, those involved could face charges of producing medicine without permission, carrying a penalty of up to five years imprisonment and a fine of up to 10,000 baht. Kookkai’s lawyer, Songkarn Autchariyasub, stated that he had sufficient evidence to confirm that the clinic purchased umbilical cords and placentas from the nurse to produce stem cells and growth factors. The lawyer said he had advertisements for the products, which the clinic has since removed from its website, and a screenshot of a conversation between the clinic and a client who experienced negative side effects from the stem cells and growth factors. Organ trafficking or theft Lerdsin Hospital Director, Adisak Ngam-kajohnwiwat, admitted that one of the nurses had indeed sold umbilical cords and placentas to the clinic. He confirmed she acted alone, with no other medical professionals involved. The nurse confessed to selling six to seven pieces of umbilical cords and placentas per year and claimed she was unaware of the clinic’s intentions. According to ThaiRath, Kookkai and her lawyer viewed the sale of umbilical cords and placentas as human organ trafficking, while CPPD 4 Director Weerapong Klaithong considered it merely a theft. Weerapong explained that, although umbilical cords and placentas are considered contaminated waste in hospitals, they do hold value, which could make this case qualify as theft. Thai Rath reported that further updates on the case would be released soon. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Thai Rath Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-05