webfact

US Government Backs Thai Air Force F-16 Purchase with Loan Deal F-16 Block 70 aircraft. Photo: Lockheed Martin. Picture courtesy via Defense Post The United States has extended an offer to financially assist Thailand in procuring a set of Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70 fighter jets. Thailand's Defence Minister Suthin Khlangsang confirmed this development today. In a recent discussion with Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, US Ambassador to Thailand Robert F. Godec presented the offer. The US proposed an unspecified loan amount to facilitate the Thai air force's acquisition. Although specifics on lending terms have yet to be disclosed, Suthin indicated this is part of an effort to support the Thai military's capabilities. The air force initially planned to acquire four units in the upcoming fiscal year and eventually expand the fleet to eight. However, with the US loan, an eight-jet purchase might now be achievable in a single phase. Ambassador Godec also mentioned that Lockheed Martin would provide technology transfers related to maintenance and repairs if the Thai air force opted for the F-16s, thus bolstering long-term operational support. This diplomatic initiative follows another high-profile visit, with Swedish banker and industrialist Marcus Wallenberg advocating for the purchase of Saab JAS 39E Gripen jets. As it stands, the Thai air force is weighing its options between the US-made F-16 Block 70, priced at US$63 million per unit, and the Swedish Gripen, with a price tag of US$85 million per unit. Currently, Thailand's air fleet comprises US-built F-16s deployed at Wing 1 in Korat and Wing 4 in Takhli, and Swedish Gripens stationed at Wing 7 in Surat Thani. These modern additions aim to replace ageing models such as the General Dynamics F-16A/B and F-16 ADF Fighting Falcons, and Northrop F-5TH Super Tigris jets, currently operating at Wing 21 in Ubon Ratchathani. Ultimately, the decision reflects Thailand’s broader strategic defence planning and solidifies its ties with international partners in its quest for advanced military capability. -- 2024-07-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 5 July 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1331537-thailand-live-friday-5-july-2024/

Reconsideration of afternoon ban on selling alcohol in progress File photo Thailand's Prime Minister, Srettha Thavisin, is considering lifting a ban on afternoon alcohol sales that has been in place for 52 years, in efforts to stimulate the tourism industry. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331502-reconsideration-of-afternoon-ban-on-selling-alcohol-in-progress/

The US government has made a tantalising offer to the Royal Thai Air Force (RTA) – a loan to purchase an entire fleet of F-16 fighter jets. Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang revealed this intriguing development, shedding light on the high-stakes negotiations. US government tempts RTA with fleet of F-16 fighter jets Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331504-us-government-tempts-rta-with-fleet-of-f-16-fighter-jets/ Photo courtesy of The Nation

Thai Mascot Worker Punched Unconscious by Foreigner; Attacker Sought CCTV screenshot In an unexpected turn of events, a Thai mascot worker was assaulted by a foreigner, leaving him unconscious. The incident has sparked a widespread social media campaign to identify and apprehend the assailant. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331473-thai-mascot-worker-punched-unconscious-by-foreigner-attacker-sought/

CCTV screenshot In an unexpected turn of events, a Thai mascot worker was assaulted by a foreigner, leaving him unconscious. The incident has sparked a widespread social media campaign to identify and apprehend the assailant. The unfortunate event occurred on 3rd July, when a Facebook user recounted his harrowing experience, seeking assistance in locating the foreigner responsible for the attack. The victim, donning a green mascot costume, detailed the incident: “I need everyone’s help. I don’t know the attacker’s name, nationality, or anything else. Please share his picture to help find him. I was in my mascot costume when a foreign man approached me for a handshake. As I extended my hand, he squeezed it painfully, prompting me to cry out and withdraw. Suddenly, he punched me in the face, right where my eyes align with the costume’s mask, reported Matichon. I fell to the ground and lost consciousness for a brief moment. Despite wearing a padded suit, the force of the blow and fall caused some minor injuries. It was only thanks to the staff members that I managed to get up, although I was too dazed to pursue the attacker. Having worked as a mascot for nearly a decade, this incident shook me profoundly. I am now seeking justice and an apology from the assailant. Please share my story widely. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.” Sharing further details, the mascot worker explained, “For those wondering why I didn’t fight back, I blacked out. Even if I had retaliated, imagine the headlines: ‘Mascot punches tourist.’ It would be a disaster.” The social media plea aims to mobilize public support to identify the attacker and ensure the mascot worker receives the justice he deserves. The incident is a stark reminder of the unpredictable dangers faced by workers even in seemingly safe, everyday roles. CCTV screenshot -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Commits to Intensified Measures Against Transboundary Haze Pollution File photo courtesy: Wikimedia Thailand has pledged to intensify efforts against transboundary haze pollution in collaboration with regional partners, according to Environment Minister Phatcharavat Wongsuwan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331466-thailand-commits-to-intensified-measures-against-transboundary-haze-pollution/

Thailand has pledged to intensify efforts against transboundary haze pollution in collaboration with regional partners, according to Environment Minister Phatcharavat Wongsuwan. Phatcharavat announced yesterday, July 3, at an ASEAN sub-regional ministerial committee meeting on haze pollution in Bangkok. Representatives from Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand attended the meeting, with Timor-Leste participating as an observer. Expressing gratitude for the collaborative efforts, Phatcharavat highlighted the achievements within the ASEAN framework to monitor, observe, and prevent transboundary haze pollution. Key milestones include the creation of the Southeast Asia Fire Danger Rating System and the agreement to establish the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Transboundary Haze Pollution Control. In Thailand, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), in conjunction with the Royal Forest Department, actively monitors fires on peatlands and agricultural zones in the south during the fire season from July to September. These efforts aim to mitigate the adverse effects on public health and the environment. The two-day meeting concluded with a statement affirming continued cooperation to limit the impacts of transboundary haze pollution. Enhanced information sharing and the use of updated technology were cited as crucial factors contributing to improved outcomes. The ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) forecasts above-normal rainfall over most of the southern ASEAN region in the upcoming months. Despite this, the risk of transboundary haze persists. Hotspots with smoke plumes or haze are likely to appear in fire-prone areas, especially during drier periods. “We appreciate all the efforts made by members to address this pressing issue. By working together and leveraging technology, we can achieve better results in protecting our environment and public health,” Phatcharavat added. In related news, Benjakitti Park, a sprawling urban oasis in Bangkok, has rapidly become a beloved haven for the city's 11 million residents, offering respite from the pollution and a glimpse into a healthier future. File photo courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

British Couple Outraged Over £9 Tin of Heinz Beans in Thailand Photo courtesy: TikTok via Yahoo News A British couple holidaying in Thailand discovered that some home comforts come at a jaw-dropping price abroad. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331462-british-couple-outraged-over-£9-tin-of-heinz-beans-in-thailand/

A British couple holidaying in Thailand discovered that some home comforts come at a jaw-dropping price abroad. Mark and Nadine, originally from the UK and Ireland but now residing in Australia, were having a tropical getaway when they were floored by the cost of a simple can of Heinz Baked Beans in a local Thai supermarket. In a video shared on TikTok, Nadine, with evident shock, displayed the tin and exclaimed, “You want your Heinz beans in Thailand? Only 420 baht.” The couple quickly did the sums and converted the price, revealing the staggering cost. “18 Australian dollars for a can of beans,” they exclaimed. This jaw-dropping price tag sparked a conversation about the real cost of home comforts while travelling. The video gained traction online, prompting debates on whether tourists should indulge in imported goods or stick to local cuisine. Online commenters were quick to highlight the hefty markup on imported products, attributing it to distribution and transport costs. Many advised tourists to eat locally to avoid such exorbitant prices. Mark and Nadine acknowledged this, yet couldn’t help but feel the local supermarket’s pricing was excessive. “We know imported things are more expensive but this markup is just too much,” said Mark. Converting 420 baht to other currencies, the couple's find is around 17 Australian dollars or roughly 9 British pounds—an eye-watering 600% increase compared to what they'd normally pay back home. This isn’t the first time Australians have faced sticker shock abroad. Last year, a packet of Tim Tams in the US was spotted for around 314 baht, equating to 13 Australian dollars, causing outrage despite acknowledged import costs. As more travellers share their experiences, the debate over the worth of home comforts continues to heat up, stirring discussions about adapting to local fare while abroad. Photo courtesy: TikTok via Yahoo News -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian Woman Dies in Chonburi After Husband Bans Marijuana Picture courtesy: Channel 7 A tragic incident unfolded in Chonburi, Thailand, last night when Russian national Miss Oksana Savon, 44, fell to her death from the 6th floor of a luxury condominium. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331459-russian-woman-dies-in-chonburi-after-husband-bans-marijuana-use/

A tragic incident unfolded in Chonburi, Thailand, last night when Russian national Miss Oksana Savon, 44, fell to her death from the 6th floor of a luxury condominium. The local authorities were alerted to the scene on July 3, 2024, after residents reported a person falling from a height. When the Pattaya City Police arrived at the Jomtien 2nd Road condominium, they found Miss Savon's lifeless body near the building. The resident condominium, known for its towering structure of over 40 floors, quickly became a site of investigation. According to reports, Miss Savon had been staying in room 613 on the 6th floor. Preliminary inquiries suggest that a domestic dispute had escalated prior to the incident. Miss Savon had an argument with her husband, who is also Russian, over her desire to smoke marijuana. Her husband's prohibition reportedly caused her severe distress, culminating in her decision to jump off the balcony. The police quickly moved to secure the area, barring any unrelated individuals from approaching the scene. The investigation involved a thorough inspection of the deceased's room and recording of evidence. The Pattaya Tourist Police and Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Foundation assisted in the immediate aftermath of the incident. CCTV footage from the building is being reviewed, and the police are questioning the husband to piece together a clearer picture of the events leading up to the tragedy. The forensic team from Chonburi Province's Zone 2 is also set to conduct a detailed examination of Miss Savon's body to establish the precise cause of death. Picture courtesy: Channel 7 -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Police Nab OnlyFans Star; Sex Tapes In Rice Fields and Forests Exposed Picture courtesy: Amarin TV Thai authorities have apprehended 27-year-old Mr. Patiphat, a transgender OnlyFans content creator, who earned 100,000 baht a month by filming explicit material in rural areas. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331456-thai-police-nab-onlyfans-star-sex-tapes-in-rice-fields-and-forests-exposed/

Thai authorities have apprehended 27-year-old Mr. Patiphat, a transgender OnlyFans content creator, who earned 100,000 baht a month by filming explicit material in rural areas. Chachoengsao – Yesterday, Mr. Patiphat was arrested at his home in Tambon Tha Khai, Mueang District, marking a significant breakthrough for the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB). He faces charges related to human trafficking, child pornography production, and the distribution of obscene materials. **Shock Discovery:** Authorities discovered Mr. Patiphat's activities while investigating human trafficking crimes via online media. He managed a Twitter account and a successful OnlyFans page boasting over 130,000 followers. These accounts featured more than 100 explicit clips, primarily male-to-male intercourse, often shot in unconventional settings like forests, rice fields, and boxing arenas. Investigations revealed that one victim, a 17-year-old boy, was coerced into producing these illicit videos. The boy was lured under false pretenses, then involved in making explicit child pornography to attract followers. Mr. Patiphat, who worked as a salesperson at a local department store, admitted to creating his online accounts six months ago. He explained that his calculated strategy to feature locations like rice fields and forests significantly boosted his follower count and monthly earnings, exceeding 100,000 baht. Thai Police Nab OnlyFans Star; Sex Tapes In Rice Fields and Forests ExposedThis startling case highlights a worrying trend where social media platforms and subscription sites are misused for illegal activities, exploiting vulnerable individuals, including minors. Patipat's fondness for unusual filming locations was intended to add intrigue, thereby attracting a larger audience. While under custody, Mr. Patiphat admitted to his operations but defended them as a means to stand out in a saturated market. He claimed that incorporating children into his content was a misguided attempt to increase viewership. As the investigation continues, authorities remain committed to ensuring justice for the victims and curbing the proliferation of child exploitation through online platforms. Picture courtesy: Amarin TV -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Police Ignore Knife-Wielding Man's Fee Demand on Phuket Beach Picture courtesy: Wochenblitz An alarming incident unfolded recently at a Phuket beach, involving a man allegedly threatening two fishermen with a machete while demanding a beach fee. Despite having evidence, the local police dismissed the complaint, deeming it a mere story. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331452-police-ignore-knife-wielding-mans-fee-demand-on-phuket-beach/

An alarming incident unfolded recently at a Phuket beach, involving a man allegedly threatening two fishermen with a machete while demanding a beach fee. Despite having evidence, the local police dismissed the complaint, deeming it a mere story. On July 3, local fisherman Wut, shared his experience, explaining that he and his friends initially went fishing at Kamala Beach. On their way back, they decided to fish at Pa Praw Beach. They encountered no issues until their return when they saw a man collecting money from two Thai men and inquiring about their activities. The man then demanded a fee of 50 baht per person from Wut and his friends for beach access. When Wut questioned the man, citing he had never heard of such a fee before, the man claimed someone from a nearby bar instructed him to collect it. As Wut attempted to take a photo, the man pulled out a machete and threatened them. Terrified, Wut and his friends fled the scene. Later, Wut reported the incident to Patong Police Station, seeking legal action. However, the police informed him that since he was not directly harmed, they could not file a complaint, dismissing the events as just a story. Wut expressed his concern that such actions could escalate, posing a danger to other beachgoers, as the man was extorting money unlawfully. Eventually, the police documented the man’s possession of a weapon in public but took no further action. Another fisherman, Affan, corroborated Wut’s account. Arriving at Kalim Beach around 4pm, he too faced the knife-wielding man demanding a 50 baht entrance fee. Affan refused to pay and noticed the man was armed. He opted to negotiate but decided against following the man elsewhere. Affan also reported the incident to Patong Police Station but received a similar dismissive response despite possessing video evidence. The reluctance of local authorities to take swift action has raised concerns about the safety of beachgoers and whether more serious incidents might occur in the future. Picture courtesy: Wochenblitz -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Garbage Collector Discovers Two Male Infant Bodies in Bangkok Picture courtesy: Matichon A shocking discovery occurred this morning in Bangkok's Phaya Thai District when a garbage collector found the bodies of two male infants in the back of his truck. The incident took place at the entrance of Soi Phahonyothin 13 in Samsen Nai Subdistrict. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331450-garbage-collector-discovers-two-male-infant-bodies-in-bangkok/

A shocking discovery occurred this morning in Bangkok's Phaya Thai District when a garbage collector found the bodies of two male infants in the back of his truck. The incident took place at the entrance of Soi Phahonyothin 13 in Samsen Nai Subdistrict. Pol. Lt. Col. Suphat Hemchinda of the Bang Sue Police Station was alerted to the grim find and quickly arrived at the scene with a forensic team, a doctor from the Police General Hospital, and Ruamkatanyu volunteers. Upon arrival, authorities confirmed the presence of the two infant bodies, which were approximately 7-8 months gestational age. The babies were still attached to their placentas and umbilical cords, indicating they were likely stillborn or died shortly after birth. Initial examinations suggest the infants had been deceased for about 10 hours. The discovery was made by Mr. Saran Somsri, a 49-year-old garbage collector. Mr. Somsri recounted that he was performing his usual duties, collecting garbage from within Soi Phahonyothin 13. As he emptied the contents of the last three garbage baskets into the truck, he noticed the first infant's body sliding down among the rubbish. A second body, wrapped in a plastic bag, was found stuck to the garbage compactor. Disturbed, Mr. Somsri immediately informed his colleagues, who then notified the local police. Pol. Col. Phuwanon Unphothi, leading the forensic team, stated that the initial focus would be on examining CCTV footage from surrounding areas to track the person responsible for discarding the infants. The bodies have been sent to the Police General Hospital for further examination to determine more about the circumstances of their deaths and any identifying information. Authorities are now intensively investigating to uncover the origins of the infants and the identity of the person who abandoned them. Legal actions will follow once the investigations provide clear leads. Picture courtesy: Matichon -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Man Robbed of 3.3 Million Baht After Bank Withdrawal in Bangkok video screenshot A man was robbed of 3.3 million baht shortly after withdrawing the sum from a bank on Phatthanakan Road, Bangkok, by two gunmen who then fled the scene on a motorcycle. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331449-man-robbed-of-33-million-baht-after-bank-withdrawal-in-bangkok/

video screenshot A man was robbed of 3.3 million baht shortly after withdrawing the sum from a bank on Phatthanakan Road, Bangkok, by two gunmen who then fled the scene on a motorcycle. At 3:30 p.m. on 3 July 2024, Prawet Police Station officers responded to a robbery incident in the parking lot of a supermarket located in Suan Luang District, Bangkok. Upon arriving, they found the victim, Mr. Yanai Techathabat, 44, next to his Toyota Wish car, visibly shaken. Mr. Techathabat recounted the traumatic encounter: after withdrawing the large sum from a nearby bank and returning to his vehicle, he was accosted by two men brandishing guns. The assailants forced him to sit back in the car, then quickly grabbed a bag containing the cash. They made their escape on a black Yamaha X-Max motorcycle, heading towards Phatthanakan Road. The police, led by Pol. Col. Surapong Phutkhao, promptly began their investigation. Surveillance footage in the vicinity is being reviewed to track down the suspects, who were described as wearing dark clothing and helmets to conceal their identities. The motorcycle's license plate number has yet to be identified. Notably, the victim shares a surname commonly associated with a prominent executive in Thailand’s mobile phone sector, adding a layer of intrigue to the case. Authorities are considering all potential angles, including whether the robbery was opportunistic or if Mr. Techathabat was specifically targeted. The investigation continues, and forensic officers are collecting evidence from the scene. Mr. Techathabat has been taken to Prawet Police Station for further questioning, with the hope of quickly identifying and apprehending the culprits. The brazen nature of the robbery in broad daylight has left the local community highly concerned, highlighting the need for heightened vigilance and security. -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Hits 17.5 Million Tourists in H1 2024, Eyes 36.7 Million by Year-End File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand welcomed a remarkable 17.5 million foreign tourists in the first six months of 2024, marking a 35% increase from the previous year. This impressive surge sets the country on a clear path towards achieving its ambitious target of 36.7 million tourists by year-end, as per data from the Thai Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331445-thailand-hits-175-million-tourists-in-h1-2024-eyes-367-million-by-year-end/

Thailand welcomed a remarkable 17.5 million foreign tourists in the first six months of 2024, marking a 35% increase from the previous year. This impressive surge sets the country on a clear path towards achieving its ambitious target of 36.7 million tourists by year-end, as per data from the Thai Ministry of Tourism and Sports. The largest chunk of these visitors came from China, with 3.43 million tourists, followed by Malaysia with 2.43 million, and India with 1.04 million. These figures highlight the strength of Thailand's appeal across diverse markets. Several factors are driving this upward trend. Celebrity influence, the ongoing summer holiday season, and new governmental travel initiatives are all encouraging more people to travel to Thailand. To accommodate the influx, the Thai government is ramping up flights in partnership with airlines and extending visa-free entry to additional countries. Notably, a mutual visa exemption agreement with China, effective from 1st March, has significantly eased travel between the two nations. Revenue generated from international visitors this year stands at approximately 825 billion baht (around 22.39 billion USD). The ministry aims to hit a tourism revenue target of 3.5 trillion baht (about 95 billion USD) for 2024. The optimistic projections led the Thai government to raise its yearly tourist target by an additional 1 million visitors, enhancing the growth outlook with an expected GDP bump to 3%. As a reference, during the pre-pandemic peak in 2019, Thailand attracted a record 39.9 million tourists, bringing in 1.91 trillion baht (about 51.8 billion USD). Tourism remains a vital component of Thailand's economy, contributing around 12% to the nation's GDP. With these initiatives and favourable conditions, Thailand’s tourism industry is poised for a robust recovery and potential new highs in the months ahead. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-07-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 4 July 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331443-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-4-july-2024/

Thailand’s Constitutional Court has set July 17 as the next hearing date for a case seeking the dissolution of the popular opposition Move Forward Party, which has 30 per cent of seats in the Lower House of Parliament. The court’s president said this week there would be a verdict in the case before September. The Anti-Corruption Commission has recommended that the the bangkok local authority the BMA's be investigated over an almost 4 -billion-baht project to lease 842 electric garbage trucks over five years. Its letter to the secretariat suggested the investigation should focus on compliance with budget regulations, the scope of the lease, costs of charging stations, truck capacity, maintenance expenses, and pilot projects, to ensure there is no corruption. The United States has launched a new academic programme to boost education ties with Thailand. 18 US and 29 Thai universities and colleges will participate in the program to help create more student- exchange programmes, A new train service connecting Bangkok and Vientiane in Laos is due to begin services on July 19th. The first train will leave bangkok at 9.25pm and arrive at Vientiane's station at 5 past nine the next morning, the ticket price is expected to be around 300 baht Locally, authorities and transport agencies in Prachuap Khiri Khan met with the aim to secure funds to carry out road improvements to enhance road safety and reduce accidents. The meeting also reviewed a proposal for an integrated disaster prevention and training project aimed at preventing road accidents. Around the region. Indonesia Key members of the terror group Jemaah Islamiyah in have dissolved the organisation, but analysts caution that the threat posed by the group, which has claimed responsibility for a string of deadly attacks in the region, continues. The group stated they are ready to be actively involved in promoting the country’s independence. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thunder showers 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: cloudy thundershowers 31 Pattaya: Cloudy with thunder showers 29 Phuket and the south: Cloudy with thundershowers 29 Hua Hin:Cloudy with rain mainly in the 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, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-07-04 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Car Falls into Construction Pit in Pattaya, Second Similar Accident Recently By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: 77kaoded Pattaya —A sedan partially fell into a shallow construction hole in Pattaya in the early hours of Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024. Luckily, there were no injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331440-car-falls-into-construction-pit-in-pattaya-second-similar-accident-recently/