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Photo via ThaiRath Nong Bua Lamphu gunman surrenders amid hunger, exhaustion The Thai gunman who murdered three people in the Isaan province of Nong Bua Lamphu surrendered to the police today, claiming exhaustion and hunger. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344846-nong-bua-lamphu-gunman-surrenders-amid-hunger-exhaustion/

UPDATE: Nong Bua Lamphu gunman surrenders amid hunger, exhaustion By Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath The Thai gunman who murdered three people in the Isaan province of Nong Bua Lamphu surrendered to the police today, claiming exhaustion and hunger. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344846-nong-bua-lamphu-gunman-surrenders-amid-hunger-exhaustion/

Colombian gang arrested in Bangkok for 3.2m baht assets theft by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Police from the Metropolitan Investigation Division 6 and the Phlapphla Chai 2 Station apprehended a Colombian gang involved in a high-profile theft case. The gang is accused of breaking into a luxury vehicle and stealing assets worth over 3.2 million baht, including 900,000 baht in cash and 50 baht weight of gold bars. The incident involved a businessperson in the hair dye industry. On the day of the arrest, senior police officials, including Siam Boonsom, acting police commissioner, and Nopasilp Phulsawad, deputy commissioner, directed the joint operation that led to the capture of 73 year old Jose Orlando Ocampo. Officers recovered cash amounting to 475,000 baht and gold bars weighing 20 baht, valued at approximately 880,000 baht. The total assets retrieved amounted to around 1.3 million baht. Ocampo was apprehended in a rented condo on Sukhumvit 77, Suan Luang, Bangkok, following an extensive investigation by the Phlapphla Chai 2 investigation team and the Division 6 investigators. The theft occurred on November 23 when the victim, who sells hair dye products, parked their white Lexus on level B5 of the Amp Chinatown car park in Pom Prap Sattru Phai, Bangkok. After selling 20 baht weight of gold for 883,000 baht at a gold shop on Charoen Krung Road, the victim stored the cash and an additional 50 baht weight of gold in their car. The following day, at around 10.30am, the victim returned to find their car’s left rear window smashed and the valuables missing. Security footage revealed two unidentified men, believed to be foreigners, following the victim and taking a side bag and a white cloth bag from the victim’s car. This prompted a swift police response to track down the perpetrators. Following tireless investigations, police uncovered that the suspect, a Colombian national, was residing in a rented condo on Sukhumvit 77. Police maintained surveillance around the area at around 3.30pm yesterday, November 27. Ocampo was found hiding in his condo, having not shown himself since the crime was committed. An arrest was made under a warrant issued by the Bangkok South Criminal Court on November 26, charging him with theft involving the destruction of protective barriers and using disguises to avoid detection. Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Ocampo confessed to the crime, admitting that part of the stolen assets had been given to an accomplice, also a Colombian national, who has since fled to Cambodia. The suspect led officers to recover some of the remaining stolen assets from his condo. He cited financial needs as the motive behind the theft. The suspect has been handed over to investigators at the Phlapphla Chai 2 Station to face legal proceedings. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to track down his accomplice who has taken refuge in Cambodia, reported KhaoSod. Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-28

Father searches for daughter believed to be abducted in Bangkok by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A father is urgently seeking help to locate his daughter, believed to have been abducted due to personal family issues. Her last known location was in Lat Phrao district at 6.23pm yesterday, November 27. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344815-father-searches-for-daughter-believed-to-be-abducted-in-bangkok/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal A father is urgently seeking help to locate his daughter, believed to have been abducted due to personal family issues. Her last known location was in Lat Phrao district at 6.23pm yesterday, November 27. The online community has been actively sharing a post by renowned journalist Kitti Singhapad, highlighting the disappearance and requesting public assistance in finding the missing girl. Rose, whose full name is Chalisa Thongyai, was reportedly taken by a group of individuals. The family suspects the incident is related to personal matters at home, as they have previously received threats. Importantly, Rose is not involved in these issues. The last sighting of Rose was at the Lat Phrao District Office, dressed in her KIS International School uniform. The family has filed a report with the Ladprao Police Station but has yet to re-establish contact with their daughter. Anyone with information on Rose’s whereabouts is urged to reach out to her father at 082-2659991, known as Doctor Thongtith. The urgency of this situation is underscored by the widespread sharing of the Facebook post, which aims to gather as much public attention and assistance as possible. The details provided in the post include a description of Rose and her school uniform, hoping to trigger recognition from anyone who might have seen her during the time of her disappearance. “The father urges good citizens to share and help find his daughter,” the post reads, reflecting the family’s desperation and call for public support. The case has drawn significant attention, with many expressing concerns about Chalisa’s safety and well-being. The police are actively investigating the situation, focusing on the family’s claims of previous threats and aiming to uncover any leads that might reveal the girl’s current location. While the details of the personal conflicts leading to this incident remain undisclosed, the priority remains on Rose’s safe return. As the search continues, the family and authorities remain hopeful that Rose will be located soon. The public is encouraged to stay alert and report any information that might assist in bringing Rose back home safely, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-28

Rama II Roadworks Postponed by Five Months Amid Challenges Rama II Road. File photo The much-anticipated completion of the elevated road construction on Rama II, a key transport artery in Samut Sakhon, has sadly hit a snag. Initially set for a June opening next year, the project is now delayed until November 2025. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344813-rama-ii-roadworks-postponed-by-five-months-amid-challenges/

Rama II Road. File photo The much-anticipated completion of the elevated road construction on Rama II, a key transport artery in Samut Sakhon, has sadly hit a snag. Initially set for a June opening next year, the project is now delayed until November 2025. This setback stems from technical complications in constructing the ascending stretches in the Bang Khunthian area, according to the Expressway Authority of Thailand (Exat). The elevated Motorway 82 (M82) spans 4 kilometres and is designed to link the Bang Khunthian, Ekkachai, and Ban Phaeo zones. Once completed, it will act primarily as a diversionary route, absorbing traffic when Rama II Road experiences breakdowns or accidents. This thoroughfare is crucial since it serves as a vital connection for commuters and goods moving in and out of southern Bangkok. Unfortunately, this news of delay may cause concern among those who rely on the road. The construction's postponement means continued congestion woes for some time yet, in a region already notorious for its traffic bottlenecks. Still, the hope is that these additional months will ensure the completion of a safer, more efficient infrastructure. Meanwhile, there’s progress elsewhere. The Rama IX frontage bridge shows promising signs, anticipated to be operational by the end of this year. This structure is part of another concurrent road development that links the Rama III motorway, Dao Khanong, and the Western Beltway. Mr. Chayatan Phromsorn, the permanent secretary for transport, reports that this cable-stayed bridge will alleviate congestion on the crowded Rama IX Bridge. Once the connecting roads in the Suksawat area are built, the new bridge will open to the public, easing daily commutes across the Chao Phraya River, reported Bangkok Post. Both projects are integral to Thailand's broader initiatives to improve road infrastructure and traffic flow in and out of Bangkok. Though setbacks are frustrating, authorities assert that safe and efficient completion is the main priority. The aim is to enhance mobility for residents and support economic activities reliant on this key transportation network. For context, these road infrastructure improvements form part of a broader strategy to support economic growth by reducing logistics costs and addressing chronic congestion issues in and around Bangkok. -- 2024-11-28

Elderly woman trapped by floodwater at home rescued in Yala (video) by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Heavy rainfall in Yala has led to rapid flooding, trapping many residents in their homes. Soldiers quickly responded to rescue efforts, including carrying a bedridden elderly woman to safety on the second floor of her house. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344809-elderly-woman-trapped-by-floodwater-at-home-rescued-in-yala-video/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Heavy rainfall in Yala has led to rapid flooding, trapping many residents in their homes. Soldiers quickly responded to rescue efforts, including carrying a bedridden elderly woman to safety on the second floor of her house. Torrential rain has been pounding the southern Thai province of Yala, causing widespread flooding that has caught many residents off guard. Water levels have risen unexpectedly, leaving people stranded in their homes without time to evacuate. The situation has become increasingly dire, with waters rising swiftly and affecting numerous areas across the province. One particular incident, which gained attention through a video shared by a TikTok user, @pai.chainarong, highlights the commendable efforts of soldiers assisting those in need. The video captures the tense moments as soldiers rush to help an elderly woman who is bedridden and unable to move on her own. With floodwaters beginning to invade her home, the urgency of the situation becomes apparent. “Helping a bedridden grandmother escape the flood to the second floor. Stay strong, grandma. This year, the water came quickly. May everyone stay safe.” The soldiers were alerted to the situation and arrived at a house where the elderly woman was lying on the ground floor, hooked up to an oxygen tube. As water started seeping into the lower level of the house, the soldiers acted swiftly. They carefully lifted the woman and carried her to the safety of the second floor, a move crucial for her well-being as the waters continued to rise. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-28

Mother outraged after seeing son bullied at Thai school by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Sanook A mother intervened after witnessing her child being bullied at school, eventually deciding to transfer the child to a different class. Despite seeking help from teachers, the situation did not improve, highlighting ongoing concerns about bullying in educational settings. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344805-mother-outraged-after-seeing-son-bullied-at-thai-school/

Photo courtesy of Sanook by Puntid Tantivangphaisal A mother intervened after witnessing her child being bullied at school, eventually deciding to transfer the child to a different class. Despite seeking help from teachers, the situation did not improve, highlighting ongoing concerns about bullying in educational settings. Children, especially those in kindergarten, require vigilant supervision from parents and teachers. Lacking self-defence skills, young children can often become targets for those seeking amusement at their expense. A report from a Vietnamese news site recently drew public attention to a distressing incident involving a young boy. This child, wearing a green shirt and black trousers, was bullied by a classmate wearing a green shirt and orange trousers, evoking widespread sympathy and concern. The incident occurred as the boy in black trousers was sitting on the classroom floor, playing cards. The other child not only turned his back and kicked the boy in the face but also sat on his neck, pushing him to the ground. The bullied boy did not retaliate but allowed the torment to continue. His mother, who captured the incident on camera, expressed her sorrow upon witnessing her son being bullied in such a manner. “I know I must teach my child to react to such behaviour but that classmate still enjoys bullying him. Even after seeking help from the teacher, nothing changed. That’s why I decided to transfer my son to a different class and continue teaching him.” The incident sparked outrage among many who condemned the bullying behaviour. Simultaneously, others stressed the importance of teaching children to defend themselves and respond to bullying effectively. Bullying in kindergarten settings is not uncommon. If parents fail to intervene promptly, children may suffer both physical and emotional harm. The dilemma remains whether teaching a child to fight back or to submit is the best solution in such scenarios, reported Sanook. Photo courtesy of Sanook Experts have identified three types of parental approaches when dealing with school bullying: The first approach involves teaching children to surrender. Parents who adhere to this philosophy instruct their children daily to live harmoniously and yield to classmates. If a child is harmed, it is often dismissed as mere play, with no need for retaliation or acknowledgement as bullying. Psychological experts warn this method may result in children becoming shy, lacking confidence, and unwilling to report bullying to parents, believing it will be dismissed as child’s play. The second approach advocates for children to retaliate when harmed. While defending oneself is not inherently wrong, unclear explanations from parents about what constitutes self-defence versus retaliation can lead children to think retaliation is always justified. This may eventually lead them to resort to physical actions instead of verbal communication, making peaceful interactions difficult as they grow older. The third approach advises children to protect themselves without retaliating. “When someone hurts you, protect yourself but don’t retaliate. You might cry loudly, shout, or run away to attract the attention of teachers or adults or ask those around you for help. They will protect you, and that’s how you can protect yourself.” Displaying such behaviour not only helps children protect themselves but also raises awareness about resisting bullying. It encourages the development of a personality that is neither weak nor overly aggressive. For these reasons, experts recommend this approach as the most effective when children are harmed by peers. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-28

Bangkok’s big truck crackdown: Clearing the air one gear at a time by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Nikkei Asia City Hall is gearing up for a major move to clean up Bangkok’s air quality, and the Department of Land Transport (DLT) is calling on all operators of six-wheeled trucks and larger vehicles to gear up for action. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344804-bangkok’s-big-truck-crackdown-clearing-the-air-one-gear-at-a-time/

Picture courtesy of Nikkei Asia by Bob Scott City Hall is gearing up for a major move to clean up Bangkok’s air quality, and the Department of Land Transport (DLT) is calling on all operators of six-wheeled trucks and larger vehicles to gear up for action. The city plans to roll out a groundbreaking Low Emission Zone initiative next year, targeting those notorious medium- and large-sized trucks to take on the city’s choking PM2.5 dust pollution. DLT chief Jirut Wisanjit laid out the scheme yesterday, November 27. If truckers want to hit nine key districts in the heart of Bangkok, they’ll need to play by the rules and register their beasts. It’s not just about signing up, truck operators must keep on top of their engine oil and air filter changes to stay on the right side of the law. Only those trucking titans that toe the line, or run on electric and NGV systems, will be given the green light to enter these zones, hotspots notorious for heavy traffic and sky-high pollution levels, said Wisanjit. “Our mission is crystal clear, we’re out to boost Bangkok’s air quality, stamp out pollution, and make life better for all the city’s residents.” Officials are raising the alarm over Bangkok’s smog situation, where clogged roads and perilous PM2.5 levels are a daily battle. The new programme zeroes in on truck maintenance and registration, ensuring that only eco-friendly rigs cut through the city’s most polluted zones. “This is all about protecting public health and joining the global fight against air pollution.” Truck operators need to get their vehicles in order, meeting the new standards. This bold move by the city underscores a firm commitment to battling pollution and nurturing a healthier environment for all. With the Low Emission Zone plan set to launch next year, the DLT is paving the way for cleaner air and setting the stage for future green policies. Get on board or get left behind! Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-28

73-Year-Old Colombian Caught for Car Break-In, Gold Theft Picture courtesy: Channel 7 News A 73-year-old Colombian gang leader has been arrested after smashing a businessman's car window and stealing assets worth over 3 million baht, including gold bars and cash. The suspect shared the stolen money with accomplices before fleeing to Cambodia. He was apprehended late last night (27 November 2024) at a condominium in Bangkok’s On Nut area. Pol. Lt. Gen. Sayam Boonsom, acting commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, led the operation, with officers from Plabplachai 2 Police Station and the Crime Suppression Division. The suspect, identified as Mr. Jose Orlando Ocampo, was arrested with evidence including 475,000 baht in cash and 20-baht gold bars valued at approximately 880,000 baht. The total assets recovered amounted to 1.35 million baht. The incident occurred on the morning of 23 November 2024, when the victim, a businessman selling hair dye products, parked his white Lexus on the B5 floor of Chinatown Mall in Pom Prap Sattru Phai District, Bangkok. When the victim returned to the car the following morning, he discovered the left rear window smashed. Surveillance footage revealed two men, believed to be foreigners, following the victim to his car before stealing a shoulder bag and a white cloth bag containing cash and gold. The stolen items included 50 baht in gold bars worth 2,207,500 baht, 2 baht in gold jewellery worth 87,500 baht, and cash totalling 983,000 baht, bringing the total loss to 3.28 million baht. Investigations identified the suspects as Colombian nationals who had rented a room in a condominium on Sukhumvit Soi 77 in Suan Luang District. Police obtained an arrest warrant from the Bangkok South Criminal Court (No. 1130/2567, dated 26 November 2024) and detained Mr. Ocampo. The suspect faces charges of "jointly committing theft by damaging protective barriers or disguising their identity." He has been handed over to Plabplachai 2 Police Station for further legal proceedings. Police continue to investigate and track down Ocampo’s accomplices, reported Channel 7 News -- 2024-11-28 .

Bangkok Police Arrest International Gang for 3M Baht Gold Heist Picture courtesy: Daily News Bangkok police have apprehended a gang of international thieves responsible for breaking into a local businessman's car and stealing valuables, including gold bars and cash, totalling over 3 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344797-bangkok-police-arrest-international-gang-for-3m-baht-gold-heist/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Bangkok police have apprehended a gang of international thieves responsible for breaking into a local businessman's car and stealing valuables, including gold bars and cash, totalling over 3 million baht. On the evening of 27th November, Bangkok Metropolitan Police officers successfully detained 73-year-old Colombian national, Jose Orlando Ocampo. The arrest took place at a condominium in the On Nut area of Bangkok. Recovered at the scene were cash worth approximately 475,000 baht and gold bars weighing 20 baht, valued at around 880,000 baht. The arrest follows a thorough investigation by the Plubpla Chai 2 police and Bangkok Metropolitan Police Division 6. The crime occurred on 23rd November, when the suspects targeted a hair dye product businessman’s white Lexus parked at the China Town shopping mall. The victim had left gold bars and 983,000 baht cash in the car while attending to business matters. Upon returning the next day, he discovered the car window smashed and the items missing. CCTV footage revealed two men, believed to be foreign nationals, making off with the stolen goods. Thanks to a focused police operation, Ocampo was identified and located at his rented accommodation in Bangkok. Following a court-sanctioned warrant, he was taken into custody on charges related to theft and property damage. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath During questioning, Ocampo confessed to the theft and revealed that some stolen items had been shared with an accomplice, who has since fled to Cambodia. Police are continuing investigations to retrieve the remaining stolen assets. Ocampo remains in police custody as the investigation continues, with the case moving forward under the jurisdiction of Bangkok’s Plubpla Chai 2 police station, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-11-28

Thai Government Vows Proactive Efforts to Safeguard Buddhism File photo courtesy: Wikipedia To bolster Buddhism's standing and integrity in Thailand, the government has pledged a proactive approach in identifying and solving issues affecting the religion. This comes as a shift from reacting to problems only as they surface, which often happens when they capture public attention or complaints arise. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344793-thai-government-vows-proactive-efforts-to-safeguard-buddhism/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia To bolster Buddhism's standing and integrity in Thailand, the government has pledged a proactive approach in identifying and solving issues affecting the religion. This comes as a shift from reacting to problems only as they surface, which often happens when they capture public attention or complaints arise. Chousak Sirinil, a Minister at the Prime Minister's Office who oversees the National Office of Buddhism, has outlined decisive measures aimed at safeguarding the cherished religion. Crucially, this includes the proactive identification of issues before they escalate. One key area of focus is the prevention of illegal activities on temple grounds. The government aims to deter the use of these sacred spaces for illicit activities such as drug consumption and gambling. This enforcement ensures temples remain holy places rather than misused venues for unlawful behaviour. Furthermore, there will be a crackdown on conduct contravening Buddhist teachings. This includes stronger disciplinary actions against monks engaging in inappropriate behaviour, such as sexual misconduct or improper use of social media. Additionally, any spread of distorted interpretations of Buddhist teachings will face increased scrutiny and suppression. Efforts to protect Buddhism extend to legal measures as well. Impersonators posing as monks, a problem that tarnishes the religion’s image, will face stringent legal repercussions. In contrast, monks demonstrating good behaviour can expect heightened protection against any unjust treatment by others. To maintain the purity and dignity of those entering the monkhood, stricter vetting processes will be implemented to exclude undesirables. This ensures that only those committed to upholding Buddhist values will join the order. The National Office of Buddhism plans to establish a dedicated centre for receiving complaints, encouraging public engagement in protecting Buddhism's tenets. This opens a channel for citizens to participate actively in safeguarding their spiritual landscape. An additional initiative involves forming a new committee to address land disputes involving temples. Conflicts between Sangha monasteries and state land authorities have become a concern, and this move aims to resolve such issues efficiently. In summary, while the government's commitment to enhancing the protection of Buddhism in Thailand signals hope for preserving its integrity, it also involves a comprehensive and determined effort. Through better oversight and public involvement, Thailand aspires to shield its national religion from contemporary societal pressures and challenges. With the Thai baht giving an edge to these initiatives, equivalent to strengthening community ties that are essential in maintaining Buddhism's hallowed status, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-28

Cabinet to Review Kittiratt's Nomination as Bank of Thailand Chairman Picture courtesy. Money and Banking The Cabinet is set to discuss the selection committee’s decision to appoint former Finance Minister Kittiratt Na-Ranong as Chairman of the Bank of Thailand’s Board during its mobile meeting in Chiang Mai this Friday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344780-cabinet-to-review-kittiratts-nomination-as-bank-of-thailand-chairman/

Picture courtesy. Money and Banking The Cabinet is set to discuss the selection committee’s decision to appoint former Finance Minister Kittiratt Na-Ranong as Chairman of the Bank of Thailand’s Board during its mobile meeting in Chiang Mai this Friday. Finance Permanent Secretary Lavaron Saengsanit confirmed that Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira had endorsed the selection committee’s choice and forwarded it to the Secretariat of the Cabinet for inclusion in the meeting agenda. However, the decision has sparked concerns among academics and former central bank staff, including four former governors. Critics argue that appointing Kittiratt, seen as closely aligned with the ruling Pheu Thai Party, could open the door to political interference, undermining the central bank’s independence. Kittiratt previously served as Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister under Yingluck Shinawatra’s administration. He was also the chief economic adviser to former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. In related developments, a Finance Ministry source revealed a change in the proposed nominee for the “resourceful person” position on the central bank’s board. Pongpanu Sawetroon, the former Permanent Secretary of Tourism and Sports, has been replaced by Pornanong Budsaratragoon, Secretary-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission. The source noted that Pongpanu was deemed ineligible for the role due to his continued involvement on the board of a private company, reported Thai PBS. -- 2024-11-28

Dashcam footage exposes foreign man attack on tuk tuk driver - video Photo via Facebook/ อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 7 A Thai woman took to social media to search for a foreign man who attacked a Thai tuk tuk driver during a ride on a road in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344744-dashcam-footage-exposes-foreign-man-attack-on-tuk-tuk-driver-video/

South Korean influencer sparks concern regarding Thai work permit Photo courtesy of Ji Gamin IG via KhaoSod The Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) is being urged to investigate the activities of South Korean Internet celebrity Ji Gamin. Concerns focus on whether Ji operated within legal parameters during her time in Thailand, including work authorisation and tax compliance. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344741-south-korean-influencer-sparks-concern-regarding-thai-work-permit/

Thai Navy's Submarine Plans Stalled Pending Feasibility Study File photo for reference only. Source: Wikipedia In a development that has left the Thai naval brass treading water, the proposed acquisition of a Chinese-built submarine remains in limbo as Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced that a "viability study" is still underway. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344772-thai-navys-submarine-plans-stalled-pending-feasibility-study/

Thai transwomen fight over foreign client on Phuket’s Bangla Road Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Another physical fight broke out between Thai transwomen on Soi Bangla in Phuket last night, reportedly over a dispute to win the heart, and wallet, of a foreign client. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344753-thai-transwomen-fight-over-foreign-client-on-phuket’s-bangla-road/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 28 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1344745-thailand-live-thursday-28-november-2024/