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Two Russian tourists are missing after being swept into the sea by powerful waves at a scenic viewpoint on Koh Samui, despite warning signs advising against entering the area. The incident occurred this afternoon (29 November 2024) when a Russian woman drove a red car to the Laad Viewpoint in Bo Phut, Koh Samui. She and a male companion ventured down to the rocks below the viewpoint with a pink inflatable mat. At the time, the sea was extremely rough, with waves reaching heights of 3 to 4 metres. While the pair were on the rocks, a strong wave struck, pulling both into the sea. Rescue teams, including marine police and volunteers equipped with jet skis, were quickly dispatched but have yet to locate the missing tourists. The viewpoint has prominent warning signs highlighting the danger of venturing below the viewing area, but some visitors continue to ignore them, leading to incidents like this. Authorities are continuing their search efforts, but hopes of finding the two alive are diminishing as time passes, reported MGR online. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-11-30

Manchester pedophile’s reign ends: Bravery of victims hailed (video) by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Triangle News A Greater Manchester police detective yesterday hailed the bravery of victims of a pedophile after he was jailed for 27 years following a 40-year reign of terror. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344915-manchester-pedophile’s-reign-ends-bravery-of-victims-hailed-video/

Thai man jumps from reversing pickup as it crashes into 27 vehicles By Petch Petpailin Photo via TikTok/ @kong_2k A Thai delivery driver lost control of his company pickup, causing it to reverse and crash into 27 vehicles parked at the Baan Ua-Athorn Hathairat community in the Khlong Samwa district of Bangkok yesterday, November 28. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344959-thai-man-jumps-from-reversing-pickup-as-it-crashes-into-27-vehicles/

UPDATE Steel Beam Collapse on Rama II Road Death Toll Rises to Six The construction incident on Rama II Road has claimed the lives of six people, as rescue and recovery efforts that are expected to take two to three days. Authorities have temporarily closed the road and diverted traffic and advised motorists to avoid the area. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1344888-three-dead-dozens-injured-as-steel-beams-collapse-on-rama-ii-road/page/2/#findComment-19415800

Consumer injured by glass in spaghetti at Thai pizza chain By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A shocking discovery of glass fragments in a dish of spaghetti at a popular pizza chain led to a consumer’s injury, sparking safety concerns. The incident, which occurred yesterday, November 28, has raised alarm among consumers and prompted discussions about food safety. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344934-consumer-injured-by-glass-in-spaghetti-at-thai-pizza-chain/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 30 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1344952-thailand-live-saturday-30-november-2024/

Photo via ThaiRath Thailand to host 2025 SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games with 2 billion baht budget By Petch Petpailin The Ministry of Tourism and Sports announced yesterday that Thailand will host the 2025 Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) and ASEAN Para Games with a budget of over 2 billion baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344939-thailand-to-host-2025-sea-games-and-asean-para-games-with-2-billion-baht-budget/

Picture courtesy of Triangle News by Bob Scott A Greater Manchester police detective yesterday hailed the bravery of victims of a pedophile after he was jailed for 27 years following a 40-year reign of terror. The pedophile, 74 year old David Marsh, was jailed yesterday, November 28, for 27 years for grooming and sexually abusing boys between the ages of six and nine in the 1980s and 1990s. In court, Marsh, whose abusive tendencies re-emerged on a trip to Thailand, was seen in a disturbing clip approaching a group of boys, capturing their innocence on camera with the sickening words, “We are all enjoying ourselves,” as he pulled one onto his lap. Marsh, alongside fellow pedophile, 72 year old Anthony Whitehead, was found guilty of 35 historic sex offences last month, thanks to the courage of survivors who stepped forward to recount their traumatic experiences. These two predators preyed on vulnerable children in Rochdale, Bolton, and Manchester, manipulating them with cigarettes, alcohol, and money before discarding them to face a lifetime of trauma. One victim described feeling “knee deep in shame,” and many have been left with a deep mistrust of authorities. Yet it was this courage that ensured Marsh’s sentencing at Manchester Crown Court, where Whitehead, though unrelated to Marsh, was also sentenced, albeit to a shorter term of seven years. Both men must serve at least two-thirds of their sentences before they are eligible for parole, marking a significant step in closing a dark chapter for their victims. The conviction is the culmination of an exhaustive five-year investigation initiated in 2019 after one survivor bravely disclosed the abuse he suffered at the hands of Marsh. This revelation prompted detectives from Greater Manchester Police’s Rochdale Complex Safeguarding Team to meticulously piece together the tragic accounts of other victims. Detective Constable Andrea Richards, who tenaciously pursued this case from its inception, hailed the bravery of the survivors. “The male survivors played a crucial role in bringing these abhorrent abusers to justice. It was incredibly brave of them to speak about their abuse, enduring a difficult and painful process. “These depraved men are exactly where they should be—in jail, away from our communities and those within them.” Picture courtesy of Greater Manchester policeRichards also extended a heartfelt appeal to any other survivors of Marsh and Whitehead’s reprehensible actions, emphasising that support is readily available. “There may be others affected by Marsh and Whitehead’s separate campaigns of offending. We want all survivors of sexual abuse to know we are here to listen to them, at a pace they feel comfortable with.” Greater Manchester Police remains committed to tackling child sexual exploitation (CSE), improving their approach to investigating both past and present cases said Detective Constable Richards. “We hope that this conviction, and our continuously improving outcomes for victims, illustrates that time is no barrier to justice.” As the curtain finally falls on Marsh and Whitehead’s monstrous misdeeds, this case serves as a sombre reminder of the enduring impact of childhood abuse. Yet, it also stands as a beacon of hope and justice, showcasing the tireless efforts of law enforcement and the incredible bravery of those seeking closure and healing. Picture courtesy of Triangle News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-29

Scottish holidaymaker’s scooter disaster in Koh Pha Ngan by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Ferry Samui A Scottish holidaymaker’s volunteering quest to mend his broken heart took a disastrous turn on the sunny tropical island of Koh Pha Ngan, Thailand. In what was meant to be a soul-soothing retreat at an animal sanctuary, Paul McDonald found himself embroiled in a terrifying traffic drama after a high-speed scooter crash left him bruised, battered, and toothless. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344907-scottish-holidaymaker’s-scooter-disaster-in-koh-pha-ngan/

Picture courtesy of Ferry Samui by Bob Scott A Scottish holidaymaker’s volunteering quest to mend his broken heart took a disastrous turn on the sunny tropical island of Koh Pha Ngan, Thailand. In what was meant to be a soul-soothing retreat at an animal sanctuary, Paul McDonald found himself embroiled in a terrifying traffic drama after a high-speed scooter crash left him bruised, battered, and toothless. The 33 year old former care worker had set out on a seemingly mundane excursion to a nearby supermarket on November 11 when disaster struck. Riding a rented scooter along Thailand’s sun-drenched roads, the Scot’s journey descended into chaos when another scooter appeared from nowhere, hurtling towards him without warning. The collision that ensued sent him flying over his handlebars, rendering him unconscious on the warm asphalt. In an era where everything is captured digitally, McDonald’s ordeal was no exception. Midway through a TikTok livestream, thousands unwittingly witnessed his serenity shatter into a blood-curdling scream, moments before his phone met the tarmac. When he finally regained consciousness, bandaged and bewildered, the terrifying reality of his situation sank in: he was in hospital, minus two teeth, with a gaping wound on his upper lip now stitched up and a daunting financial black hole yawning before him. Despite insisting faulty brakes were the real culprits behind the crash, McDonald was forced to dig deep into his pockets, shelling out a shocking £700 (31,000 baht) in damage and compensation costs to the other driver. Adding insult to injury, his travel insurance deemed his hefty £800 (35,000 baht) medical expenses unworthy of coverage, plunging him further into financial despair. Within just one week, Paul’s trip expense budget—intended to last two whole months—vanished, prompting desperate pleas for help from his sister back home. “It was meant to be a dream trip. Just 30 seconds ruined everything.” Picture courtesy of Kennedy News and Media Determined to share his experience and prevent similar tragedies, McDonald uploaded the collision footage to TikTok, issuing a pivotal warning: “This is your sign not to get a scooter in Thailand.” The harrowing clip attracted over 5,000 views, resonating with empathetic netizens. Yet the grim reality remains prominent— McDonald’s initial quest for personal healing is now a logistical and emotional quagmire. The trip to Thailand was not merely a holiday for McDonald but a retreat from grief. He had travelled to volunteer at local dog shelters, seeking solace after losing his cherished Staffordshire bull terrier, Lola, who had been his loyal companion for 13 years. However, his journey of catharsis was abruptly cut short, replaced by frequent and arduous hospital visits for ongoing treatment. McDonald’s reticence about scooters now couldn’t be clearer. The miserable experience has sworn him off Thai scooters for good, blaming mechanical failures. Raising initial concerns about the scooter’s elusive squeaky brakes, McDonald was reassured it was “just the rain.” Nevertheless, his inner voice of reason was overwrought with the clanging bells of doubt—a doubt that materialised too late. As if his new dental imperfections and daily hospital treks weren’t enough, a final unsettling episode occurred at the local police station. Picture courtesy of Kennedy News and Media Engrossed in a challenging negotiation mired by language barriers, the Scot faced demands that threatened his very freedom. Cambridgeshire Live reported his passport hung precariously in the balance as he scrambled to comply with financial obligations. “What choice did I have? Without paying, I risked being stranded.” McDonald’s chilling caution to fellow wanderers is to cherish safety above all else. In countries where traffic rules are often fluid suggestions rather than strict guidelines, complacency can quickly usher in calamity. “The roads can be dangerously unpredictable. Nobody thinks it’ll be their turn until it is.” Presently, with dentition to mend and health to reclaim, McDonald’s focus remains on recovery. Dentists and doctors, now frequent fixtures in his travel diary, overshadow previous plans of adventure and exploration. The notion of extending his Thai adventure lingers in the periphery, yet any idyllic notions about carefree scooter rides have dissipated entirely. Tourist Police Thailand has been contacted for comment on the incident, though McDonald’s tale already encapsulates a vivid lesson for holidaymakers: the allure of adventure is undeniable, yet vigilance must be the steadfast companion on these foreign roads. Picture courtesy of Kennedy News and Media Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-29

Man Arrested for Stealing Tourist's Gold Necklace Worth 445,000 Baht Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A 27-year-old man named Sarawut was apprehended on 28th November by Phaya Thai police following a string of investigations into a theft involving a foreign national. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344900-man-arrested-for-stealing-tourists-gold-necklace-worth-445000-baht/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A 27-year-old man named Sarawut was apprehended on 28th November by Phaya Thai police following a string of investigations into a theft involving a foreign national. The suspect was captured using a Honda motorcycle and various items, including a half-helmet and clothing, that linked him to the crime scene in Bangkok. The incident occurred on 3rd October when a tourist walking on Phetchaburi Soi 15, Ratchathewi, reported that a helmeted man on a motorcycle snatched a gold necklace weighing 10 baht from his neck and fled. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Surveillance and investigative efforts led authorities to identify Sarawut as the suspect. A warrant was issued for his arrest on 27th November for "theft using a vehicle." He was detained shortly after at a residence in Din Daeng district. Upon arrest, Sarawut admitted to the theft. He confessed to pawning the necklace for 360,000 baht in Bang Phlat district and using the money for online gambling, which he subsequently lost. Further background checks revealed he had a previous conviction for theft in 2020 in Warin Chamrap. Sarawut is currently in police custody at Phaya Thai station pending further legal proceedings, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-11-29

Thailand’s economy rebounds but experts warn of growth risks by Ryan Turner Image: Oleksandr P/Pexels Thailand’s economy is showing signs of recovery, yet economists warn of ongoing risks that could hinder its growth potential. Key challenges include elevated household debt, slow income recovery for vulnerable groups, and Thailand’s economic interdependence with China. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344894-thailand’s-economy-rebounds-but-experts-warn-of-growth-risks/

Image: Oleksandr P/Pexels by Ryan Turner Thailand’s economy is showing signs of recovery, yet economists warn of ongoing risks that could hinder its growth potential. Key challenges include elevated household debt, slow income recovery for vulnerable groups, and Thailand’s economic interdependence with China. Despite these issues, the Thai economy reported a growth of 1.9% in 2023, although this was below expectations. The economy is gaining strength, supported by strong private demand, a rebound in tourism, and increased government budget allocation. Growth forecasts predict an increase to 2.8% this year and 3.3% in 2025, largely due to the continued focus on government spending, especially through initiatives like the digital wallet scheme, along with strong exports and tourism. Economists from the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) spoke on the expected short-term growth in their Annual Consultation Report on Thailand for 2024. “Tourism is expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels in 2025. Government spending is set to accelerate, with the revised digital wallet scheme set to lift short-term growth.” Headline inflation is anticipated to decrease to 0.7% this year from 1.3% in 2023, thanks to energy subsidies and reduced prices of essential goods. However, inflation is expected to rise to 1.5% in 2025 as subsidies are gradually removed and the economic recovery gains momentum. Lingering problems Short-term risks, highlighted by AMRO, include potential export weaknesses, potential delays in government spending, and sluggish private investment. High household debt and a slow income recovery among vulnerable groups could challenge consumption and affect banks’ asset quality. AMRO economists also spoke on the issue of public debt. “Over the longer term, Thailand faces a public debt sustainability risk and a persistent decline in growth potential. The failure to adapt to digital and decarbonisation trends could render key export sectors uncompetitive.” AMRO’s report, released yesterday, November 27, advises the Thai government to focus on securing macro-financial stability and revitalising structural transformation to achieve higher growth in the long term. They suggest that additional monetary policy easing might be necessary if economic growth underperforms. Revitalising economic transformation is crucial for Thailand’s long-term growth. This includes enhancing agricultural productivity, shifting labour from agriculture to more productive sectors, transitioning manufacturing towards new growth areas, and unlocking the service sector’s potential through infrastructure improvements, according to AMRO. The office indicates that Thailand could reach high-income status by 2050 if it continues on its current path. However, with bold reforms and effective development plan implementation, this status could be achieved by the early 2040s, reported Bangkok Post. Maybank Investment Banking Group in Kuala Lumpur notes that evolving economic ties with China present challenges for Thai policymakers. China’s industrial leadership could pose challenges to regional economies with overlapping structures. Rising global trade tensions may lead to an influx of Chinese products in neighbouring markets, threatening local market shares. Balancing protecting domestic firms and jobs while fostering beneficial relationships with Chinese companies is crucial, Maybank advises. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-29

Thaksin Pushes Controversial Projects Despite Opposition Picture courtesy: MGR Online Thaksin Shinawatra has taken direct action to drive a range of ambitious projects, including developments on Koh Kood and a 99-year land lease policy, amidst significant public opposition. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344892-thaksin-pushes-controversial-projects-despite-opposition/

Picture courtesy: MGR Online Thaksin Shinawatra has taken direct action to drive a range of ambitious projects, including developments on Koh Kood and a 99-year land lease policy, amidst significant public opposition. He aims to enhance the Pheu Thai Party's standing by actively implementing multiple initiatives simultaneously, deflecting focus from any single controversial endeavour. This strategy is a bid to regain political influence and secure a strong position in upcoming elections. Prominent academic Dr Wanwichit Boonprong suggests Thaksin's direct involvement is necessary because public confidence in Pheu Thai's leadership under Paetongtarn Shinawatra is lacking. Consequently, Thaksin is leading efforts to showcase achievements that will appeal to voters. These efforts are termed "economic stimulus projects," such as the proposed digital currency handout and restructuring debt obligations. The Pheu Thai government is also promoting policies that have faced strong criticism due to concerns about national security and economic stability. These include negotiations with Cambodia over energy resources near Koh Kood, legalising gambling as "entertainment complexes," and opening real estate markets to foreigners through 99-year leases. The push for these policies, despite backlash, is perceived as Thaksin's attempt to rapidly implement changes before potential legal challenges affect the party's political future. However, critics argue that these policies serve more as populist tactics to boost political support rather than genuinely stimulate economic growth. Concerns over increased public debt and fiscal irresponsibility are also raised, particularly regarding the financial viability and necessity of such schemes. In summary, Thaksin's aggressive push for these developments is a strategic move to solidify Pheu Thai's political position but has sparked significant debate over their broader implications for Thailand’s economic and national security, reported MGR Online. -- 2024-11-29

Pictures courtesy: Naew Na

British Man Arrested for Overstay and Insulting Phuket Officials Picture courtesy: Novosti Phuketa A British man was arrested on 27 November at Phuket International Airport for violating Section 81 of the Immigration Act (overstay). He had stayed in the country 130 days longer than permitted by the stamp in his passport. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344877-british-man-arrested-for-overstay-and-insulting-phuket-officials/

Picture courtesy: Novosti Phuketa A British man was arrested on 27 November at Phuket International Airport for violating Section 81 of the Immigration Act (overstay). He had stayed in the country 130 days longer than permitted by the stamp in his passport. The Immigration Bureau’s passport control unit at the international terminal reported the arrest. According to the report, the man was detained while undergoing departure control. It also mentioned that the 37-year-old British man insulted officials performing their duties. After the arrest, he was taken to Sakhu Police Station to face formal charges under Section 81. While this section allows for imprisonment of up to two years, courts usually impose a fine of 500 baht per day (capped at 20,000 baht) and deportation. Until his deportation, the British man will be held at the Immigration Detention Centre (IDC). Under the Good Guys In, Bad Guys Out policy, any arrest for overstaying carries an additional penalty: a re-entry ban of five years for overstays under a year or ten years for overstays exceeding a year, reported Novosti Phuketa. -- 2024-11-29

Pattaya Cracks Down on Foreign Criminals to Boost Tourist Confidence Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Authorities in Pattaya have launched an intensive operation to crack down on crimes involving foreign nationals in the area. This move aims to boost tourist confidence ahead of the Pattaya International Fireworks Festival. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344873-pattaya-cracks-down-on-foreign-criminals-to-boost-tourist-confidence/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Authorities in Pattaya have launched an intensive operation to crack down on crimes involving foreign nationals in the area. This move aims to boost tourist confidence ahead of the Pattaya International Fireworks Festival. The operation, named "Operation Clean-Sweep", is led by Pol Lt Gen Yingyot Thepchamnong, acting Commissioner of Region 2 Police. It addresses the growing concerns about international crimes and illegal activities by foreigners that have recently plagued local media narratives. These include illegal labour and cross-border crimes which have become more prevalent and violent. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Collaborating with local law enforcement, immigration officials, and public health authorities, the operation successfully led to several arrests. These include: 1. Illegal Work and Fraudulent Activities: 17 Chinese nationals were caught for running an illegal loan business with a turnover of around 392 million baht. 2. Unauthorised Herbal Product Manufacturing: Three illegal shops were shut down, resulting in 11 arrests, including seven foreign workers. Authorities seized 27 misleadingly marketed herbal products. 3. Working Without Proper Permits: 109 foreigners were found working beyond their visas' limitations. 4. Illegal Entry and Overstays: Officials apprehended 469 individuals for entering the country illegally and 33 for overstaying their visas. 5. Failure to Report Alien Residences: A total of 249 offences were reported under this law. 6. Illegal Possession of Firearms: 42 cases were documented, with 23 firearms seized. 7. Drug Offences: Nine individuals were arrested with large quantities of methamphetamine and ice. 8. Public Disturbance: 33 motorcycles were confiscated and two reckless driving incidents were addressed, involving Kuwaiti nationals. 9. Vagrancy and Begging Issues: Authorities dealt with 14 vagrants and 33 beggars, finding seven under influence of drugs. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath This robust initiative marks the beginning of targeted preventative measures along with aggressive actions against crimes impacting tourist safety in Pattaya. It aligns with the national police's vision of maintaining transparency and integrity in law enforcement, promoting confidence both domestically and internationally, reported Siam Rath. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-11-29

Thailand Slashes Airfare Prices by 30% for New Year Holiday Travelers File photo for reference only The Thai Ministry of Transport has announced a special New Year treat for travelers by collaborating with airlines to tackle the issue of costly flight tickets. Just in time for the holiday season, they are offering a 30% discount on 50,000 seats from December 26 to January 5. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344852-thailand-slashes-airfare-prices-by-30-for-new-year-holiday-travelers/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 29 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1344847-thailand-live-friday-29-november-2024/

Thai police banned from collecting fees for red checkpoint boxes By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Post Today Thai police issued an urgent directive prohibiting officers from collecting monthly fees for red checkpoint boxes following a corruption ruling by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344859-thai-police-banned-from-collecting-fees-for-red-checkpoint-boxes/

AOT confirms facial recognition for international flights By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Pattaya News Airports of Thailand Plc (AOT) yesterday announced that the state-owned enterprise will implement facial recognition services at six major airports for international flights starting December 1. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344851-aot-confirms-facial-recognition-for-international-flights/