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Pattaya — A naked homeless man was arrested in the early hours today after disturbing the public in Central Pattaya. At 3:06 AM this morning, June 30th, Pattaya police were notified by concerned citizens about a nude man acting erratically while walking along Pattaya Central Road in the Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. Following the report, police coordinated with Pattaya City Special Services officers and rushed to the scene. They found a man, believed to be Thai and in his 30s or 40s, walking naked in front of a motorcycle shop near a traffic light intersection. The man’s nudity caused significant disruption among passing tourists. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian National Arrested in Hua Hin with Major Drug Seizure Picture courtesy: Facbook ดาวแปดแฉก A Russian national has been apprehended in Hua Hin with a significant haul of illegal drugs, the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) confirmed today. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331151-russian-national-arrested-in-hua-hin-with-major-drug-seizure/

A Russian national has been apprehended in Hua Hin with a significant haul of illegal drugs, the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) confirmed today. Police Lieutenant General Phanurat Lakkabun, Secretary-General of the ONCB, reported that the unnamed suspect was found with a variety of narcotics, most notably 840 grams of methamphetamine hidden in coffee capsule packages from Poland. Upon further investigation of the suspect's home, authorities discovered additional drugs, including 14 grams of amphetamines, 290 grams of MDMA, 149 ecstasy tablets, 67 LSD stamps, 506 grams of cocaine, 609 grams of ketamine, and 300 grams more of methamphetamine. The arrest stems from a collaborative operation between the ONCB and Customs, under the Airport Interdiction Task Force (AITF), aimed at scrutinising suspicious international parcels. The coffee capsules initially tested inconclusive but were later identified to contain methamphetamine. Lieutenant General Phanurat explained that this type of methamphetamine acts as a powerful nervous system stimulant, causing euphoria similar to MDMA. Typically, it can be consumed by smoking, injecting, or ingesting capsules. Despite a decline in methamphetamine incidents over the past five years, the drug sometimes appears in mixtures like "Bath Salts." Mr. Pruet Mekanant, Director of the Narcotics Suppression Bureau, was instructed to fast-track the investigation and secure control over the seized narcotics to track other recipients in Hua Hin. The suspect, identified upon receiving the suspicious parcels, was promptly arrested. Searches of his Taptai residence in Hua Hin revealed even more narcotics. Further inquiries indicated that the suspect was involved in receiving and storing drugs from international sources, subsequently distributing them within Thailand. Transactions for the drugs were made via digital currency. Lieutenant General Phanurat emphasised the evolving nature of narcotic smuggling, citing past incidents of fentanyl and 2CB being mailed from the USA and Europe in 2022. New forms of narcotics such as drug-laced candies and “Happy Water” have been found in 2023, underscoring the ongoing need for rigorous surveillance. Picture courtesy: Facbook ดาวแปดแฉก -- 2024-07-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Professor Highlights Medical Benefits of Cannabis Amid Negative Portrayal By Kittisak Phalaharn National — On June 29th, 2024, Thai national media reported on an article, titled “It’s a Shame Many Thais Don’t Know Cannabis Can Be Used Medically, by Assoc. Prof. Dr. ‪Pattapong Kessomboon, from the Department of Family Medicine at Khon Kaen University, addressing misconceptions about cannabis. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331149-thai-professor-highlights-medical-benefits-of-cannabis-amid-negative-portrayal/

National — On June 29th, 2024, Thai national media reported on an article, titled “It’s a Shame Many Thais Don’t Know Cannabis Can Be Used Medically, by Assoc. Prof. Dr. ‪Pattapong Kessomboon, from the Department of Family Medicine at Khon Kaen University, addressing misconceptions about cannabis. Assoc. Prof. Dr. ‪Pattapong argued that some groups are negatively portraying cannabis solely as a recreational drug while ignoring its medical benefits. He highlighted that smoking cannabis can effectively relieve various medical conditions, supported by case studies and research. For instance, a patient with bipolar disorder experienced significant improvement after switching from conventional medication to cannabis. Another case involved an American veteran who found relief from severe PTSD symptoms through cannabis, ultimately preventing suicidal thoughts. Israel, a global leader in cannabis research, has legalized medical cannabis for over 20 years, showing a high success rate with 87% of patients preferring cannabis products with 18% THC for smoking. In the United States, where 24 states have legalized cannabis, the percentage of people using cannabis increased from 11% in 2002 to 18% in 2022. Concurrently, smoking rates halved, from 400 billion cigarettes per year to 200 billion, reducing smoking-related illnesses significantly. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Police Meet with Motorbike Taxi Drivers to Discuss Road Safety By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — On June 28th, 2024, Pattaya police convened with motorbike taxi drivers, both traditional and app-based, to discuss road safety. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331147-pattaya-police-meet-with-motorbike-taxi-drivers-to-discuss-road-safety/

CLICK on the videos Phuket Rain1.mp4 Phuket Rain2.mp4 Phuket Rain3.mp4 -- 2024-07-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya — On June 28th, 2024, Pattaya police convened with motorbike taxi drivers, both traditional and app-based, to discuss road safety. The meeting, which took place at the Baron Beach Hotel, was chaired by Pol. Col. Patikorn Sornchai, Deputy Police Commander of Chonburi Province, under the “Road Safety Improvement Project” spearheaded by the Royal Thai Police. The initiative aimed to instill traffic discipline among motorcycle drivers, particularly motorbike taxi drivers commonly known as “Win” and app-based drivers in Pattaya. The meeting’s morning sessions focused on informing the drivers of accident statistics and traffic law enforcement guidelines, while the afternoon session involved group discussions for both types of drivers. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourists in Chiang Mai Rescued from Raging River by Elephant Mahout Team By Aim Tanakorn Chiang Mai — A group of tourists were stranded in the middle of a raging river after their raft capsized in Chiang Mai province on June 28th, 2024. Fortunately, they were rescued just in time by a team of elephant riders. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331146-tourists-in-chiang-mai-rescued-from-raging-river-by-elephant-mahout-team/

Chiang Mai — A group of tourists were stranded in the middle of a raging river after their raft capsized in Chiang Mai province on June 28th, 2024. Fortunately, they were rescued just in time by a team of elephant riders. The dramatic moment was shared on the Facebook page of “พระครูอ๊อด วีรวฑฺฒโน ภิกฺขุ.” The post showed a group of tourists enjoying rafting when their raft capsized due to a sudden strong current. The tourists were stranded in the middle of a raging river, clinging to the tip of a tree. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Burglar Beaten by Angry Residents After Series of Burglaries By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Matichon Pattaya — A suspected burglar was beaten by a group of angry residents in Pattaya after he was caught trying to commit another break-in this morning, June 30th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331145-pattaya-burglar-beaten-by-angry-residents-after-series-of-burglaries/

Pattaya — A suspected burglar was beaten by a group of angry residents in Pattaya after he was caught trying to commit another break-in this morning, June 30th. The failed burglary took place at a villa village on Soi Thappraya 15, Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. The alleged repeated burglar, 31-year-old Mr. Thanapat Sangjamrang, was arrested by the Pattaya police after being detained by residents of the village. He had suffered multiple facial injuries from the “detainment” by the villagers. Mr. Thanapat was found with several thousand baht in cash that he had allegedly stolen after breaking into over three villas. Officers seized all stolen items as evidence before transferring Mr. Thanapat to the Pattaya Police Station for first aid and intensive questioning. According to Mr. Chatchai Thaentong, a 37-year-old caretaker of the affected home, the suspect had burglarized the village several times but was always able to escape. Eventually, he coordinated with Pattaya police officers to stake out the area, leading to Mr. Thanapat’s arrest. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Matichon Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

26 Escapees Flee Krabi Rehab Foundation by Boat, Citing Poor Conditions, Harsh Punishments By Kittisak Phalaharn Krabi — On June 29th, 2024, Mueang Krabi police received a report of 26 recovering drug addicts escaping from a rehabilitation foundation in Mueang, Krabi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331144-26-escapees-flee-krabi-rehab-foundation-by-boat-citing-poor-conditions-harsh-punishment/

Krabi — On June 29th, 2024, Mueang Krabi police received a report of 26 recovering drug addicts escaping from a rehabilitation foundation in Mueang, Krabi. According to police, the group allegedly stole a long-tail boat to escape to Mueang Krabi. Some were spotted walking on Hemthanon Road. After nearly an hour, police captured 11 of the escapees. The police negotiated with the 11 individuals, who initially resisted returning to the foundation. Fifteen patients remain at large. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

EC clarifies Senate candidacy rules amid fraud allegations by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of MGR Online The Election Commission (EC) has clarified that registering in incorrect professional groups is not necessarily an offence unless there is an intent to deceive officials and the public during the Senate election. This statement was made by EC Secretary-General Sawaeng Boonmee on Facebook yesterday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331143-ec-clarifies-senate-candidacy-rules-amid-fraud-allegations/

The Election Commission (EC) has clarified that registering in incorrect professional groups is not necessarily an offence unless there is an intent to deceive officials and the public during the Senate election. This statement was made by EC Secretary-General Sawaeng Boonmee on Facebook yesterday. The EC has faced significant scrutiny following the conclusion of the national Senate contest in Bangkok yesterday. Allegations of vote-rigging and improper candidacy registrations have led the EC to initiate an investigation. Sawaeng explained that the right to participate in a Senate election is distinct from submitting an application form, known as the Sor Wor 3 form, which may contain false information. He referenced a Supreme Court precedent to support this point. For instance, if a candidate’s Sor Wor 3 form claims they are a salt farmer, but an investigation later reveals this to be false, the candidate would face criminal charges for providing false information. However, this does not affect their right to run in the Senate election, according to the EC secretary-general. The EC is currently reviewing complaints against 48,226 candidates accused of submitting false information in their registration documents. If these complaints are found to be valid, the candidates will face charges for violating Senate election law. Additionally, the EC is investigating reports that some candidates were hired to participate in the Senate race, with the aim of diverting their votes to other candidates supported by political groups. Senate election Jaturun Boonbenjarat, Secretary-General of the Clean Politics group, announced plans to seek an urgent injunction from the Supreme Administrative Court to halt the planned announcement of the Senate election result on July 2. The injunction would be in place while the court reviews his request to rule on alleged irregularities in the Senate polls. Jaturun stated that he is exercising his right as a Senate poll candidate to prevent political elements from dominating the upper House. “This (Senate poll) could well go down in history as another chapter in dirty politics.” Jaturun accused political elements of manipulating the vote and claimed that some candidates had registered in professional groups for which they were not qualified. He urged the EC to investigate the connections between certain candidates and political parties and to determine why some candidates registered in incorrect professional groups, reported Bangkok Post. “For starters, the EC should look through the bank accounts that might reveal unusual financial transactions during the Senate election.” Jaturun also commented that some Senate race winners lacked the maturity and professional experience necessary to serve effectively as senators. He warned that if political parties can control the Senate, its ability to scrutinise legislation and maintain accountability would be severely compromised. y Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of MGR Online Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Indian Tourists Brawl in Pattaya; Arrests Made Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Early this morning, two Indian tourists were captured on video assaulting a fellow countryman in the middle of a bustling Pattaya street. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331142-indian-tourists-brawl-in-pattaya-arrests-made/

Early this morning, two Indian tourists were captured on video assaulting a fellow countryman in the middle of a bustling Pattaya street. A Thai woman, identified as the victim's girlfriend, intervened, attempting to halt the violence. The trio was subsequently taken into police custody, Amarin TV reported. The altercation, occurring at 6:10 a.m. on June 29, unfolded in front of the Marine Plaza Hotel near Soi 16, South Pattaya. This area, a hub of activity round the clock, serves as an entry point to Walking Street and houses numerous Indian and Arab restaurants. A local witness, awaiting a bus across the road, initially ignored the commotion, dismissing it as another drunken quarrel among Indian tourists—a common event in this neighbourhood. However, the situation escalated as he noticed the physical confrontation shown in the video clip. Despite being unsure of what sparked the fight, police arrived promptly, dispersing the brawl and detaining the individuals involved. The incident is reminiscent of a recent attack involving three Vietnamese loan sharks who severely injured a debtor in Pattaya's city centre. This string of altercations has prompted locals to call on Tourist and Immigration police to step up their efforts in controlling such situations, fearing damage to Pattaya's reputation as a safe tourist destination. While the authorities investigate the root cause of the dispute, this event highlights the need for increased regulation and vigilance in popular tourist spots. Efforts to maintain safety are critical, especially in areas frequented by diverse groups of visitors. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-07-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Police apologise after drug chase causes distress to family by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Plaibang issued a formal apology to a family after a dramatic drug chase led officers to fire a gun, causing great distress to a grandmother and her six year old granddaughter. The incident unfolded when the suspect’s car crashed into the family’s wall. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331141-police-apologise-after-drug-chase-causes-distress-to-family/

Police in Plaibang issued a formal apology to a family after a dramatic drug chase led officers to fire a gun, causing great distress to a grandmother and her six year old granddaughter. The incident unfolded when the suspect’s car crashed into the family’s wall. Officers from the Plaibang Police Station in Nonthaburi were chasing a suspect involved in drug trafficking. The pursuit ended abruptly when the suspect lost control of his car, crashing into the wall of a house where the family resided. The suspect fled the scene on foot, seeking refuge under the house of 52 year old Wichai who lived with his 78 year old mother, Prapai, and his six year old niece, who was waiting to go to school. Police fired a single shot in an attempt to apprehend the fleeing suspect, causing alarm among the family members. The incident occurred at 7.39am on June 26. The suspect managed to escape, leaving the family and their property in disarray. The scene left the family deeply shaken, and later, the police realised the gravity of the distress caused. Yesterday at 6.30pm, at house number 100, Moo 2, Sala Klang Subdistrict, Deputy Inspector Phasakorn Kittiwaniyanon, along with three other officers, visited the family to apologise and explain the circumstances of the incident. The officers included Sergeant Prasit Promchak, Corporal Phonthep Chanchai, and Corporal Jetsada Sanga-Mangkhang, who were directly involved in the chase. During the conversation, Wichai expressed his dissatisfaction with the officers’ delayed apology, emphasising that it had taken four days and media attention for them to reach out. His cousin, Sompong, intervened, calming the situation and suggesting that the officers leave to allow Wichai and his family time to cool down. A future meeting was proposed for a more peaceful resolution. Corporal Phonthep detailed the events of the chase. He mentioned that they had received a tip-off about drug dealing in the community and had followed the suspect from Wat Bua. The suspect’s car eventually veered off course and crashed into the wall of a house by the roadside, reported KhaoSod. Drug chase The suspect then ran into a nearby alley, slipping and falling, which allowed Phonthep to catch up and attempt to handcuff him. The suspect broke free and continued running into the residential area, Phonthep said. “I saw the grandmother sitting with the child at the back of a car. The suspect ran through the garden, and I decided to fire a warning shot into the ground to scare him. Unfortunately, he kept running and managed to escape. “Upon searching the crashed car, we found one gram of crystal methamphetamine, a knife, and 10,000 baht (US$270) in cash. Another suspect fled in a different direction with a bag. We sincerely apologise to the grandmother and her granddaughter for the unforeseen incident. We were merely performing our duty to apprehend the suspect.” by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Move Forward Slams EC for Blocking Its Defence in Dissolution Case File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The Move Forward party's advisory chief, Pita Limjaroenrat, has accused the Election Commission (EC) of double standards. This follows the EC's expedited move to bring the party’s dissolution case before the Constitutional Court without allowing Move Forward a chance to defend itself. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331140-move-forward-slams-ec-for-blocking-its-defence-in-dissolution-case/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The Move Forward party's advisory chief, Pita Limjaroenrat, has accused the Election Commission (EC) of double standards. This follows the EC's expedited move to bring the party’s dissolution case before the Constitutional Court without allowing Move Forward a chance to defend itself. Move Forward, the main opposition party, faces threats of dissolution and a decade-long political ban on its executive committee. Allegations against them include attempting to undermine the constitutional monarchy, linked to their election pledge to amend Thailand's stringent lèse majesté law. Pita Limjaroenrat criticised the EC’s petition to the Constitutional Court as illegal, arguing it hinges on the court's earlier ruling (3/2567) from January 31, which pertains to a separate case. He referenced a 2010 ruling where the court dismissed a similar EC dissolution request against the Democrat party for procedural oversights. During a press conference, Pita contended that the EC's petition bypassed standard procedures. He stated this omission makes the EC's current petition invalid. “The EC has proceeded without giving us the opportunity to defend ourselves,” Pita said, highlighting what he sees as an unjust and rushed process. Move Forward has been actively contesting the EC's decision. Their objections include questioning the EC’s authority to request such severe penalties. They argue the stakes are disproportionate to the alleged infractions. The Constitutional Court has set hearings for July 3 and July 9 to consider these serious accusations. The political climate remains tense as this high-stakes legal battle unfolds. The outcome could significantly impact Thailand's political landscape, especially the opposition’s capacity to challenge policies and influence governance. Overall, the confrontation between Move Forward and the EC underscores growing tensions and potential shifts in the nation's political dynamics. -- 2024-07-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand seeks UNESCO recognition for Tom Yum Kung & Kebaya dress by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod The Government of Thailand is pushing to have Tom Yum Kung soup and the Kebaya dress registered as intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. The Ministry of Culture is accelerating plans to promote Thailand’s soft power on the international stage. ull story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331139-thailand-seeks-unesco-recognition-for-tom-yum-kung-kebaya-dress/

The Government of Thailand is pushing to have Tom Yum Kung soup and the Kebaya dress registered as intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. The Ministry of Culture is accelerating plans to promote Thailand’s soft power on the international stage. The Ministry of Culture is promoting two of Thailand’s cultural heritages this year: Tom Yum Kung soup and the Kebaya dress. The dress nomination is a joint effort with Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, and Singapore. These items will be considered at the 19th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, scheduled from December 2 to December 7 in Paraguay. Additionally, Thailand plans to propose Thai costumes, Muay Thai, and Pha Khao Ma fabric for UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list. Kenika Ounjit, Deputy Government spokesperson, highlighted that the Department of Cultural Promotion is preparing celebratory activities for the consideration of Tom Yum Kung and the Kebaya dress for UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list. The department is also drafting a 10-year plan to catalogue additional Thai cultural heritages for UNESCO’s recognition. This includes detailing the types and timelines of activities to promote Thailand’s cultural and artistic heritage and its soft power on an international scale. In related news, the Thai government has plans to set in motion the One Family One Soft Power (OFOS) project in June, hoping to generate 20 million employment opportunities with a minimum yearly wage of 200,000 baht according to Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Head of the National Committee on Soft Power Development and leader of the Pheu Thai Party. Paetongtarn shed light on the forthcoming OFOS, disclosing that the scheme will offer free-of-charge up-skilling and re-skilling courses. Citizens can register for these courses beginning in early June via an online platform like an application or website, as well as through local offices of the National Village Fund and the Urban Community Office. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Full story: The Thaiger 2024-07-01 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok Enhances Yaowarat Safety as Lisa’s Rockstar Video Draws Crowds Picture courtesy: toutelathailande The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports have ramped up safety measures in Yaowarat, also known as Chinatown, after a surge of tourists prompted by Lisa’s Rockstar music video. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331138-bangkok-enhances-yaowarat-safety-as-lisa’s-rockstar-video-draws-crowds/