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Boy 7 killed by Thai mother rocks quiet Welsh town by Bob Scott Picture of Papaipit Linse being led from a police van courtesy of BBC Police in Wales reported the death of a 7 year old boy at the hands of his Thai mother has rocked the quiet Welsh town of Haverfordwest. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344585-boy-7-killed-by-thai-mother-rocks-quiet-welsh-town/

Picture of Papaipit Linse being led from a police van courtesy of BBC by Bob Scott Police in Wales reported the death of a 7 year old boy at the hands of his Thai mother has rocked the quiet Welsh town of Haverfordwest. Seven year old Louis Linse was found dead in his bed, his life tragically cut short by his mother. Thai-born Papaipit Linse admitted to manslaughter by diminished responsibility, a truth that unravels a harrowing tale of domestic turmoil and emotional turmoil. Earlier this week at Swansea Crown Court, the 43 year old mother of two confessed to the heart-wrenching crime, leaving the community and local law enforcement in deep shock. The day of January 10 this year turned into a nightmare when Linse made the heart-stopping call to emergency services, reporting her son’s unresponsive state. Detective Chief Inspector Gary Williams, leading the investigation, shared the heavy burden felt by the force. “This was truly a heartbreaking incident. Our officers faced an exceptionally emotive situation but approached it with unwavering professionalism and compassion, ensuring a meticulous investigation.” The tragedy not only ripped through the lives of those in Haverfordwest but also unveiled the intense personal battles Linse grappled with for years. Originally from Chiang Mai, Thailand, she finds herself estranged from her 51 year old husband Edward Linse, a businessman whose life derailed in a psychiatric facility. Picture of Edward Linse (left) and Papaipit Linse courtesy of BBC News Their troubled marriage, scarred by domestic violence and financial ruin, saw its darkest days in 2017. A heated argument over visa issues at their luxurious £1.2m (52.6 million baht) Cheshire home ended with Edward assaulting Papaipit using, of all things, a children’s book. This bizarre attack further exposed the volatility simmering beneath their relationship’s surface. Edward’s lawyer pointed to his turbulent school years as the root of his uncontrolled emotions. As the years passed, the violence only magnified. Edward eventually faced conviction for a vicious assault on his parents, a crime that landed him behind the locked doors of a psychiatric institution. Meanwhile, Linse was left to shoulder the weight of parenting their two young children alone. Their marriage’s demise was further exacerbated by financial strain. After a failed café business in Chiang Mai, the couple moved to the UK. But 2022 brought yet another blow when their landscaping company, Alderley Landscapes, shuttered its doors, prompting Linse to seek a new beginning in Haverfordwest. Neighbours along Upper Market Street described Linse as a quiet and reserved woman devoted to homeschooling her children. Despite their hardships, young Louis appeared well looked after, leaving neighbours like Dr Sean Phelan in disbelief. “I never imagined such a tragedy could unfold here. Louis and his sibling were always polite and cheerful. It’s chilling to think of the hidden pain at home.” Forensic experts have worked tirelessly to unravel the circumstances surrounding little Louis’ untimely death, as floral tributes accumulate outside the unassuming house where he lived. The community is left mourning a young life lost in unimaginable circumstances. Picture of Edward Linse courtesy of BBC News DCI Williams lauded the dedication of his team, acknowledging the emotional strain on emergency responders. “Our officers have worked relentlessly since January to achieve justice for Louis. No court ruling can reverse this heart-wrenching loss, but we hope it affords some solace to those who knew and loved him. Our thoughts are with them during this devastating time.” Now in custody, Linse awaits sentencing on December 13. The court is expected to weigh her mental health struggles and years of abuse when deciding her fate. As the community continues its raw journey of healing, the shadow of young Louis’ loss lingers profoundly on all who knew the vivacious spirit snuffed out too soon. Original story: Thai woman faces complex murder case over son’s death in UK A Thai woman, accused of murdering her seven year old son in the UK, made an appearance at Swansea Crown Court this week. The defence team described the case as “extremely complicated.” The Thai woman, 42 year old Papaipit Linse, who remains in custody, appeared in court but did not enter a plea. John Hipkin KC, representing Papaipit, requested that she not be prosecuted due to the psychiatric complexities of the case, highlighting the need for additional time to complete necessary reports. Judge Paul Thomas KC adjourned the case to a further hearing scheduled for October 25. A trial date has not yet been set. Caroline Rees KC leads the prosecution team, while John Hipkin KC handles the defence. During the brief court session, no new case details were disclosed. Police were called to an address in Upper Market Street, Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire, Wales, shortly before 10.45am on January 10. Despite the efforts of emergency services, the child, Louis, was later confirmed dead. He was transported to Withybush General Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased at 12pm. In January, during a hearing at Pembrokeshire Coroner’s Court, coroner’s officer PC Carrie Sheridan said, “At 10.44am on Wednesday, January 10, police received an emergency phone call reporting the suspected death of a child. Despite the best efforts of the emergency services at the scene and medical staff at the hospital, he was pronounced deceased at noon.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-26

Thailand's Auto Production at Lowest Level Since 2021 Pandemic Picture courtesy: Freepik Thailand's automotive production is in a steep decline, with projections for 2024 marking the lowest output since the pandemic hit in 2021. The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) anticipates that vehicle production will drop to 1.5 million units this year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344582-thailands-auto-production-at-lowest-level-since-2021-pandemic/

Picture courtesy: Freepik Thailand's automotive production is in a steep decline, with projections for 2024 marking the lowest output since the pandemic hit in 2021. The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) anticipates that vehicle production will drop to 1.5 million units this year. Surapong Paisitpatnapong, a spokesperson for the FTI's automotive industry group, conveyed this bleak forecast today, 25th November. This is the second time this year they have revised the figures downward, previously adjusting them from 1.9 million to 1.7 million units in July. The Thai automotive market is grappling with an array of challenges. Banks have tightened their lending criteria for car loans due to rising bad debt levels and household debt, which has soared past $500 billion. This tightening significantly impacts car sales, particularly for pickup trucks, a popular choice in Thailand. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's administration is actively working on strategies to alleviate this economic burden. Export targets have been similarly downgraded, with expectations falling from 1.15 million to 1.05 million vehicles. Domestic production targets are now set at 450,000 units, down from the original 550,000. These reductions highlight the dual impact of domestic market constraints and international turmoil, notably conflicts in the Middle East affecting Thai automotive exports. Recent figures reflect these challenges. In October, domestic auto sales plummeted by 36% year-over-year, with only 37,691 units sold. Exports also saw a stark decline, dropping 20.2% to 84,334 units compared to October 2023, as reported by the Bangkok Post. In a strategic move, Thailand plans to revise its automotive excise tax framework to support the global shift towards electric vehicles (EVs). Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul announced that this adjustment aims to align Thailand's policies with international automotive trends, reflecting the growing competition between battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). These developments indicate a challenging period for Thailand's automotive industry, underscoring the need for effective policy measures and industry adaptation to global changes, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-26

Man, 64, Kills Four, Injures One in Samut Prakan Shooting Spree Picture courtesy: Daily News A shocking shooting spree unfolded in Samut Prakan on the evening of 25 November, leaving four dead and one critically injured, including an eight-year-old girl. The gunman, 64-year-old Aphisit, fatally shot himself after the rampage. Authorities believe jealousy was the motive behind the attack. Police responded to reports of gunfire in a community near the Samut Prakan Crocodile Farm at around 9 PM. At the scene, they found two critically injured victims, including the young girl, who sustained multiple gunshot wounds but managed to provide information. Three others were pronounced dead: Wasana, 45; Rattanapak, 43; and Thongsi, 69. Aphisit later succumbed to his self-inflicted gunshot wound at the hospital. Eyewitnesses described the harrowing moments. A neighbour recounted seeing Aphisit shoot Wasana, who was sitting outside, before turning the gun on Thongsi and the child. He then stormed into the house, shooting Rattanapak multiple times before emerging to shoot himself. Initial investigations revealed that Aphisit, a moneylender, had been in a relationship with Rattanapak, who was renting a house in the same community with her mother and daughter. Tensions reportedly escalated when Wasana, Rattanapak’s ex-husband, continued visiting frequently. Picture Daily News Aphisit had been drinking at a local official's house earlier that evening before returning home, where he encountered the victims outside. Police discovered blood, 9mm bullet casings, and a semi-automatic handgun at the scene. Authorities suspect Aphisit acted out of jealousy, believing the close ties between Rattanapak and her ex-husband undermined his relationship. The incident has left the community shaken as investigations continue, reported Daily News. -- 2024-11-26

Public Bus Accidents in Thailand Surge by 46.5% Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has revealed a sharp 46.5% increase in accidents involving public buses in 2023. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344580-public-bus-accidents-in-thailand-surge-by-465/

File photo Thailand's National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC) has revealed a sharp 46.5% increase in accidents involving public buses in 2023. Buses accounted for the highest proportion of these incidents, with 73.0% of cases, driven by driver errors and poorly maintained, ageing vehicles. Additionally, unsafe vehicle modifications have exacerbated the risk. Public transport remains essential, particularly in Bangkok and its surrounding provinces, where over 968 million trips were recorded in 2022. However, a troubling rise in fatalities and injuries was reported, with casualties from public bus accidents increasing by more than 105% compared to 2022. Key factors contributing to these accidents include unsafe driving practices, such as speeding, tailgating, and fatigued driving. An alarming 81.1% of incidents were attributed to driver behaviour, compounded by poor working conditions. Drivers often endure emotional stress and inadequate rest, further affecting their performance. Vehicle safety is another critical issue. Many public buses are ageing and poorly maintained due to high operational costs, making necessary upgrades financially unfeasible. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Furthermore, substandard modifications, such as improperly installed compressed natural gas (CNG) systems, pose significant hazards. A 2023 inspection in Thailand found that over half of the buses fitted with CNG tanks failed to meet safety standards. A tragic example occurred on 1 October 2024, when a school excursion bus caught fire on Vibhavadi Road in Bangkok, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries. Investigators discovered the bus had 11 CNG tanks installed, far exceeding the safety limit of six, with five tanks not registered. This incident highlights the persistent lack of adherence to safety regulations. Despite repeated assurances from authorities to prevent future tragedies, the lack of enforcement and accountability continues to result in loss and injury. Sustainable solutions require stricter laws and a stronger commitment from transport operators to prioritise passenger safety over profit, reported Thai Rath. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-11-26

Samut Prakan Police Hunt Culprits in Vile Blood and Faeces Attack Picture courtesy: Daily News Samut Prakan police are investigating a shocking incident after a resident reported that unknown assailants hurled bags containing blood and faeces at his home late on 25 November 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344572-samut-prakan-police-hunt-culprits-in-vile-blood-and-faeces-attack/

Picture courtesy: Daily News Samut Prakan police are investigating a shocking incident after a resident reported that unknown assailants hurled bags containing blood and faeces at his home late on 25 November 2024. Pol Lt Col Pachara Nophatthansawat, an investigator at Muang Samut Prakan Police Station, received the report from 32-year-old Mr. Parinya Kraikittanaron, a resident of Soi Suhrai in Bang Mueang subdistrict. Mr. Parinya, who lives with his mother, discovered the vile act when loud thuds outside prompted him to check his property. Upon arrival at the scene, officers found three plastic bags, approximately 5x7 inches, containing unidentified blood. The blood had splattered across the front yard, staining the area red. Near the front door, another bag containing faeces, still intact, was discovered. However, a lack of nearby CCTV cameras has complicated initial investigations. Mr. Parinya stated he had no disputes with anyone but noted ongoing tensions in the neighbourhood related to a local business boiling kratom leaves. Residents, including himself, had previously lodged complaints about the strong odour with local media and authorities. The matter is under review by Bang Mueang Municipality officials. Picture courtesy: Daily News Police are working on the theory that the attack could be linked to these grievances. Provincial Police Commander Pol Maj Gen Wichit Boonchinwutthikul has ordered investigators to gather intelligence and review any available surveillance footage to track down the perpetrators swiftly. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as they aim to resolve this disturbing case and hold those responsible accountable, reported Daily News. -- 2024-11-26

Khao San Road Feels Pinch as European Tourists Hold Off on Bookings File photo for reference only Bangkok's celebrated Khao San Road, long a hub of backpacker activity, faces a slump in hotel reservations just ahead the festive season. Khaosan Business Association President Sanga Ruangwattanakul attributes the decline to European tourists' uncertainty amidst the persisting Russia-Ukraine conflict. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344547-khao-san-road-feels-pinch-as-european-tourists-hold-off-on-bookings/

Shore thing: Foreign couple shamed by locals for public sex on Phuket beach Photo by wavebreakmedia_micro via Freepik Another foreign couple faced criticism from locals in Phuket after they were caught engaging in sexual activity on Kata Beach yesterday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344536-shore-thing-foreign-couple-shamed-by-locals-for-public-sex-on-phuket-beach/

British tourist dodges death after toxic night at Laos hostel (video) by Bob Scott Bob Nana Backpackers Hostel owner Duong Duc Toan. Picture courtesy of The daily Mail A British tourist revealed her narrow escape from death after a night out at a notorious Laos hostel turned into a near-fatal encounter with methanol poisoning. This same party spot has become infamous following the tragic deaths of six other holidaymakers, casting a dark shadow over Vang Viang, a village once famed for its boisterous backpacker scene. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344507-british-tourist-dodges-death-after-toxic-night-at-laos-hostel-video/

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 26 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1344533-thailand-live-tuesday-26-november-2024/

File photo for reference only Dangerous fake spirits claiming lives from methanol toxicity are sending shockwaves through our neighbouring country. Numerous victims have been hospitalised, with several fatalities reported following consumption of these unlawfully produced alcoholic beverages tainted with methanol. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344527-methanol-laced-illicit-alcohol-fatal-poisoning-triggers-public-health-alert/

British tourist dodges death after toxic night at Laos hostel (video) by Bob Scott Bob Nana Backpackers Hostel owner Duong Duc Toan. Picture courtesy of The daily Mail A British tourist revealed her narrow escape from death after a night out at a notorious Laos hostel turned into a near-fatal encounter with methanol poisoning. This same party spot has become infamous following the tragic deaths of six other holidaymakers, casting a dark shadow over Vang Viang, a village once famed for its boisterous backpacker scene. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344507-british-tourist-dodges-death-after-toxic-night-at-laos-hostel-video/

Nana Backpackers Hostel owner Duong Duc Toan. Picture courtesy of The daily Mail by Bob Scott Bob A British tourist revealed her narrow escape from death after a night out at a notorious Laos hostel turned into a near-fatal encounter with methanol poisoning. This same party spot has become infamous following the tragic deaths of six other holidaymakers, casting a dark shadow over Vang Viang, a village once famed for its boisterous backpacker scene. The unfortunate casualties included Melbourne teens Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles, both just 19, who were among those partaking in the nightlife offered by Nana Backpackers Hostel. Their vibrant holiday took a fatal turn when they sought help after falling seriously ill. Airlifted to Thai hospitals, their lives were tragically claimed just days apart. The death toll from this night of terror sadly also includes 57 year old James Louis Hutson from the United States, two Danish young women, 20 year old Anne-Sofie Orkild Coyman and 21 year old Frela Vennervald Sorensen, along with 38 year old British lawyer, Simone White. Each met their untimely demise after what could have been an innocent night of socialising. Lucy Davison, a British traveller who was in Laos with her boyfriend, shared her terrifying ordeal after indulging in drinks at the same hostel. In a video post that quickly went viral, she detailed her brush with death, describing how within 15 hours of consuming what was expected to be harmless alcohol, she developed symptoms that posed an immediate threat to her life. “I was one of the British nationals who suffered methanol poisoning in Vang Vieng. I wouldn’t wish what we went through on anyone.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-25

UPDATE: Phetchabun police detain 722 in motorcycle gang crackdown by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Phetchabun detained 722 people linked to the Nam Mai Aab motorcycle gang gathering, roughly translating to no showering or no bathing. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344482-highway-police-dismiss-allegations-of-“gang-stickers”-clearing-routes/#findComment-19405720

Homeless Man Throws Concrete Block and Injures Chinese Tourist in Pattaya By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A female Chinese tourist was injured in South Pattaya after a homeless man threw a concrete block at her on the night of November 23rd, 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344490-homeless-man-throws-concrete-block-and-injures-chinese-tourist-in-pattaya/

Phetchabun police detain 722 in motorcycle gang crackdown by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Phetchabun detained 722 people linked to the Nam Mai Aab motorcycle gang gathering, roughly translating to no showering or no bathing. Over 10,000 participants and 6,000 motorcycles assembled in the province, prompting police action to maintain order and ensure public safety. The gathering took place over two days, with Phetchabun’s Provincial Police Commander, Saranai Kongmuang, directing units to enforce measures against unsafe and disruptive driving. The initiative also targeted illegal sales of alcohol and kratom, aiming to curb driving under the influence, a leading cause of accidents. During the operation, police inspected 500 vehicles, resulting in charges against 200 drivers for operating without a licence and four for tax evasion. Inspections extended to 4,054 motorcycles, leading to 518 cases under the Road Traffic Act. Offences included 150 instances of helmet neglect, 364 cases involving incomplete vehicle equipment or plates, and four for driving against traffic. Police officers also tackled drug-related offences. One individual faced charges under the Narcotics Act. Additionally, three arrests were made for unauthorised kratom extraction, with 105 bottles seized as evidence. Gambling activities did not escape scrutiny. Five individuals were charged with illegal gambling, specifically for playing cards for money without permission, and one deck of cards was confiscated, reported KhaoSod. The crackdown reflects broader efforts to uphold law and order during such large gatherings. While police respect the right to assemble, public safety remains paramount. These operations serve as a reminder of the legal responsibilities participants must adhere to while engaging in activities that attract significant crowds. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-25

By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A female Chinese tourist was injured in South Pattaya after a homeless man threw a concrete block at her on the night of November 23rd, 2024. At 9:26 PM, the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Center received a report of a tourist being injured by a homeless man in front of a hotel in the Bali Hai area of South Pattaya. Rescue officials coordinated with Pattaya police to investigate the scene. There, officers found the victim, Ms. Lianghizi Lyu, a 21-year-old Chinese national. She had sustained a minor scrape on her left leg caused by the rock. Rescue workers provided her with first aid before taking her to a local hospital. The perpetrator appeared to be a homeless man, who was seen holding a concrete block as if to throw it at passersby, at the scene. Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-11-25

Former Police Officer Arrested in Pattaya with Two Outstanding Warrants A former police officer, who became infamous after a high-profile incident in the capital, was arrested in Pattaya after being spotted by tourism police. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344487-former-police-officer-arrested-in-pattaya-with-two-outstanding-warrants/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A former police officer, who became infamous after a high-profile incident in the capital, was arrested in Pattaya after being spotted by tourism police. The man, previously involved in a viral social media scandal, was found to have two outstanding arrest warrants. The arrest took place on November 23, 2023, at 10:39 AM, in the Walking Street area of South Pattaya, Chonburi Province. Officers from the Pattaya Tourism Police Station, operating under the directives of Police General Sak Surya Phuak-am, Commissioner of the Tourism Police Bureau, and Colonel Man Rotthong, Head of the 2nd Division of the Tourism Police Bureau, observed a suspicious individual in the area. The man’s face appeared familiar, so they cross-checked his details in the Central Investigation Bureau's database. The check revealed that he was wanted in connection with two criminal cases, one from the Klong Dan Police Station and another from Bang Phlee Police Station, both in Samut Prakarn Province. The suspect was identified as 47-year-old Adisorn, a former sergeant-major with the Samut Prakarn Police. He is wanted for charges including unlawful detention, possession of firearms, and assault. Upon his arrest, Adisorn admitted to being the person listed in the arrest warrants issued by the Samut Prakarn Provincial Court. Further investigation revealed that he was also wanted under a second arrest warrant, issued by Bang Phlee Police Station in 2022, for charges related to misconduct by a public officer, extortion, assault, and unlawful detention. The warrants stemmed from two separate incidents, one involving a physical altercation and the other related to an attempted robbery. Tourism police officers, led by Lieutenant Colonel Piyapong Ensar, Lieutenant Colonel Suparat Meepreecha, and Lieutenant Colonel Apichat Jarurak, approached Adisorn in a calm and controlled manner. They presented the arrest warrants to him, and he confirmed his identity. He was subsequently arrested and taken into custody to be processed by Bang Phlee Police for further legal action. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Adisorn, a former officer in charge of crime prevention at Samut Prakarn's Bang Phu Police Station, had previously made headlines when a video went viral, showing him involved in a road rage incident in which he forced another vehicle off the road, climbed onto its roof, and smashed its windows. The incident, which took place on July 28, 2023, led to an internal investigation by the police and a subsequent disciplinary hearing. As a result, Adisorn was dismissed from the police force, and the two outstanding cases were brought to court, leading to the arrest, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-11-25

Ex-Thai PM Yingluck to face legal proceedings on return home File photo Exiled former Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra is set to return and face legal proceedings in Thailand, free from any special privileges, said Worachai Hema, a former Pheu Thai Party MP from Samut Prakan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344486-ex-thai-pm-yingluck-to-face-legal-proceedings-on-return-home/

File photo Exiled former Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra is set to return and face legal proceedings in Thailand, free from any special privileges, said Worachai Hema, a former Pheu Thai Party MP from Samut Prakan. This statement comes after Thaksin Shinawatra, Yingluck’s brother and former PM, suggested that she would return before the Songkran Festival in 2025. Worachai, now part of Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai’s advisory team, defended Yingluck, asserting she faced unfair treatment following the 2014 coup. At that time, Article 44 bestowed absolute power on coup leaders, allowing a committee to seize Yingluck’s assets without awaiting the conclusion of her criminal proceedings. Worachai questioned whether this intervention compromised judicial fairness, pointing out to Saturday's audience that the measures pre-empted her criminal case resolution. He urged Thais to reflect on the justness of Yingluck's treatment, expressing hope that fair-minded citizens would share his perspective. He stressed that Yingluck’s return is her right as a Thai and underscored the nation's need for unity and reconciliation. Worachai advised against politicising her return, warning opposition parties not to use it as ammunition against the government or the Pheu Thai Party. "It's crucial to prevent conflicts that jeopardise national stability. Let's enable the country to advance, allowing the government to focus on justice and economic welfare for its people," he urged. Yingluck was charged with dereliction of duty concerning a rice subsidy scheme in 2016 but missed her court appearance in August 2017, prompting an arrest warrant. She reportedly fled the country, but her anticipated return marks a significant development in Thailand’s political landscape, reported The Nation. -- 2024-11-25

Highway Police Dismiss Allegations of “Gang Stickers” Clearing Routes Picture courtesy: Daily News The Highway Police have addressed claims regarding “angel stickers” allegedly used by the so-called "Unwashed Gang" to clear routes without police intervention. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344482-highway-police-dismiss-allegations-of-“gang-stickers”-clearing-routes/