webfact

Thailand cooking up a global food hub by 2026 by Ryan Turner Image: Pexels Thailand is gearing up to establish itself as a leading global food hub by 2026, with its food trade value projected to exceed 700 billion baht next year. This ambitious goal is largely driven by the private sector’s initiatives to enhance food-related industries and promote gastronomy tourism. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344262-thailand-cooking-up-a-global-food-hub-by-2026/

Thailand is gearing up to establish itself as a leading global food hub by 2026, with its food trade value projected to exceed 700 billion baht next year. This ambitious goal is largely driven by the private sector’s initiatives to enhance food-related industries and promote gastronomy tourism. Taniwan Koonmongkon, president of the Thai Restaurant Association (TRA), revealed that Thailand’s food trade value is expected to reach 690 billion baht this year, with a growth rate of 5%. If no significant external threats arise, the trade value may surpass 700 billion baht by next year. To further this agenda, a collaboration involving the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Phenix Food Wholesale Hub, the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC), the Federation of Thai Industries, the Thai Health Promotion Foundation Office, and other partners has been established. This partnership aims to bolster gastronomy tourism, a critical component of Thailand’s soft power, through the organisation of the Thailand Food Travel Mart 2024 (TFTM 2024). The TFTM 2024 event kicked off today, November 22, at the Phenix Shopping Centre and will continue through to Sunday, November 24. TAT Governor, Thapanee Kiatphaibool, emphasised the importance of gastronomy tourism and food soft power in boosting Thailand’s culinary tourism. “TFTM 2024 will strengthen ties between tourism and food industries, enhancing their global presence.” By 2025, Thailand aims to attract 39 million tourists, with Thai cuisine significantly contributing to the expected tourism revenue of 3.4 trillion baht. The event will feature various activities, including the sale of food items at discounted prices, aiming to engage and attract a wider audience. In addition to these developments, Taniwan highlighted efforts by the TRA and the TCC to improve the image of Thai seabass. Since 2019, the seabass market has suffered a decline in value, dropping over 50% from 6 billion baht annually to 3 billion baht. The associations are promoting fish production under good aquaculture practices to boost domestic competitiveness. The TCC supports this initiative to revitalise the seabass market, addressing challenges that arose when Malaysia, leveraging the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement, began exporting seabass to Thailand with a 0% tariff. Thai seabass farmers have struggled to compete due to Malaysia’s lower production costs. The TCC, TRA, and Thai Marine Finfish Farmers Association are actively working to promote the consumption of safe, fresh, clean, and odour-free seabass domestically, reported Bangkok Post. Taniwan expressed optimism that after TFTM 2024, there will be a significant rise in orders, benefiting fish farmers and enhancing the restaurant industry’s value. by Ryan Turner Image: Pexels Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-22

Thailand braces for hot, stormy weather across regions by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a weather warning for today, November 22, indicating hot conditions with scattered clouds in Bangkok and its surrounding areas, while the southern regions brace for heavy rainfall. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344258-thailand-braces-for-hot-stormy-weather-across-regions/

The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a weather warning for today, November 22, indicating hot conditions with scattered clouds in Bangkok and its surrounding areas, while the southern regions brace for heavy rainfall. The TMD’s forecast for the next 24 hours reveals a moderate high-pressure system or cool air mass from China affecting the upper regions of Thailand, resulting in cool mornings in the north and northeast. Meanwhile, an easterly wind is influencing the eastern and lower central areas, bringing light rain in some locations. AdvertisementsNorthern Thailand is experiencing cool mornings with a slight decrease in temperatures. Rainfall is expected in isolated areas, mainly in the upper part of the region. Temperatures range from a minimum of 18 to 22 degrees Celsius (°C) to a maximum of 30 to 34°C. In the mountains, temperatures may drop as low as 7 to 14°C. In northeastern Thailand, the weather is similarly cool in the mornings, accompanied by strong winds. A minor drop in temperature is expected, with minimum temperatures between 17 to 22°C and maximum temperatures reaching 32 to 34°C. The mountain areas are cold, with temperatures at 13 to 18°C. The northeast wind is blowing at speeds of 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The central region will see partly cloudy skies with light rain in some areas. Temperatures will range from a low of 22 to 24°C to a high of 32 to 34°C. Similarly, the eastern region will have partly cloudy skies and strong winds, with light rain in isolated places. Temperature lows are expected to be between 23 to 25°C, with highs reaching 32 to 34°C. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, increasing to 1 to 2 metres further offshore. In areas with thunderstorms, waves could rise above 2 metres. Southern Thailand’s eastern coastline is set to experience thunderstorms in 80% of the area, with some locations expected to face heavy to very heavy rainfall. Affected provinces include Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Cooler mornings Temperatures will range from 23 to 26°C at their lowest to 29 to 33°C at their highest. From Nakhon Si Thammarat upwards, the sea will have waves 1 to 2 metres high, with waves exceeding 2 metres in thundery areas. Starting from Songkhla downwards, the sea will have waves around 2 metres high, with higher waves in stormy areas. On the western coast of the South, thunderstorms are expected in 70% of the area, with heavy rain forecasted for provinces such as Ranong, Phang Nga, Krabi, Trang, and Satun. Temperatures are expected to be between 24 to 26°C at their lowest and 31 to 33°C at their highest. The sea will have waves approximately 1 metre high, increasing to 1 to 2 metres further offshore, and in areas with thunderstorms, waves could rise above 2 metres. In Bangkok and the surrounding metropolitan areas, partly cloudy skies are expected. Temperatures will range from a minimum of 24 to 26°C to a maximum of 33 to 35°C. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-22

British lawyer latest to fall in Laos alcohol poisoning tragedy by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Lao Times A British lawyer has become the latest fatality of alcoholic poisoning in Laos taking the death toll to five people. The chilling incident has sent shockwaves across the globe. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344252-british-lawyer-latest-to-fall-in-laos-alcohol-poisoning-tragedy/

Picture courtesy of Lao Times by Bob Scott A British lawyer has become the latest fatality of alcoholic poisoning in Laos taking the death toll to five people. The chilling incident has sent shockwaves across the globe. The British lawyer Simone White is the tragic fifth victim in a series of suspected mass poisonings in Laos, Southeast Asia. A UK Foreign Office spokesperson grieved alongside her family, confirming her untimely death yesterday, November 21. “We are supporting the family of a British woman who has died in Laos, and we are in contact with the local authorities.” The 28 year old lawyer’s death comes hot on the heels of another shocking announcement earlier that day: the death of 19 year old Australian backpacker Bianca Jones. The horror story doesn’t end there: just hours earlier, reports emerged from the US State Department about the death of an American man in the same tourist hotspot, Vang Vieng. The list of casualties continues with two Danish women, aged just 19 and 20, who also fell victim last week, though Danish officials are keeping further details tightly under wraps due to confidentiality concerns. Picture of British lawyer Simone White courtesy of LBC All these tragic deaths are currently under intense police investigation. However, whispers and warnings are spreading like wildfire amongst travellers and tourist forums: local drinks contaminated with deadly methanol—an all-too-common threat in bootleg booze. Vang Vieng, a quaint riverside town known for its allure to adventurous young Western backpackers, is a famed stop along the Banana Pancake Trail: a backpacking rite of passage that winds through Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. The town now finds itself at the heart of an international tragedy. As the dust settles on this nightmare, others remain caught in the crossfire: Bianca’s friend, Holly Bowles, clings to life in a Bangkok hospital, while another British woman has been reportedly taken ill. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s foreign ministry confirmed one of its citizens is also suffering from suspected methanol poisoning, and the Netherlands has confirmed a Dutch tourist is hospitalised but stable. Picture of Holly Bowles courtesy of Sky News Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese articulated the distress of the nation, confirming Bianca’s death. “Our first thoughts at this moment are with her family and friends who are grieving a terrible and cruel loss. This is every parent’s very worst fear.” The Aussie PM voiced hopes for the recovery of Bowles, currently fighting for her life in Bangkok Hospital. The US State Department is keeping a watchful eye on investigations regarding their own citizen’s tragic end while pointing out it’s up to local Laotian authorities to determine the full, grim story. Foreign ministries from the UK, Australia, and New Zealand have all issued stark warnings to their citizens about the deadly potential of methanol when drinking in Laos. In a grim development, the Nana Backpacker Hostel in Vang Vieng, where the two Australian women were guests, has shut its doors amid the ongoing police probe. Picture of Bianca Jones courtesy of Sky News The hostel manager told the press that the ill-fated night began with free shots of local Lao vodka, dispensed generously to more than 100 guests. The manager insisted that no other incidents were reported, as he fervently hoped for the hostel’s name to be cleared. Yet, free shots have been axed for the foreseeable future. Heart-wrenchingly, Bianca Jones’s family released a statement to the Herald Sun, expressing their “deepest gratitude for the overwhelming support, love, and prayers we’ve received from across Australia.” The family kindly requested privacy as they embarked on the most difficult journey of all, grieving a beloved daughter. The spectre of methanol poisoning is a grim reminder of its deadly potency. Unlike ethanol, the safer staple of a nightly tipple, methanol is a toxic impostor, often slipped into bootleg spirits to cut corners and costs. As Laos grapples with this unfolding tragedy, tourists are being urged to sip with caution or steer well clear. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-22

Monk Challenges Claims of Sacred Amulet’s Supernatural Powers Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV A recent online controversy has erupted over claims surrounding the "Maha Chakraphat Meditation Amulet," purportedly created using a recipe from revered monks Luang Pu Du Phromma Phanyo and Luang Ta Ma of Wat Tham Muang Na in Chiang Mai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344249-monk-challenges-claims-of-sacred-amulet’s-supernatural-powers/

Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV A recent online controversy has erupted over claims surrounding the "Maha Chakraphat Meditation Amulet," purportedly created using a recipe from revered monks Luang Pu Du Phromma Phanyo and Luang Ta Ma of Wat Tham Muang Na in Chiang Mai. The amulet is claimed to protect against nuclear radiation and diseases, sparking widespread criticism on social media. Today (21 November 2024), reporters sought insights from Phra Payom Kalayano, the abbot of Wat Suan Kaew, on the matter. Phra Payom criticised the exaggerated claims, calling them a misuse of people's faith for monetary gain. He noted that attaching such supernatural attributes to sacred objects strays from Buddhist principles and instead fuels superstition and ignorance. “This is a deceitful practice that exploits people's beliefs,” Phra Payom said. “True Buddhism encourages relieving suffering, not indulging in baseless claims that mislead and burden people's minds.” He added that if these amulets truly brought peace, reduced crime, and fostered moral discipline, they would deserve recognition as tools for promoting good values. However, without such results, they remain mere instruments of deceit for financial gain. Phra Payom challenged the creators to prove the amulet’s efficacy by reducing societal delusions and restoring clarity to people's beliefs. “If they can do that, they’d be hailed as geniuses. Otherwise, it’s nothing but a disgraceful scam,” he stated, reported Amarin TV. In a final remark, Phra Payom cautioned the public against falling victim to such schemes. “If someone tries to sell you these claims, just tell them, ‘I’m not gullible, thank you very much!’” -- 2024-11-22

Justice Ministry Uneasy Over Second Thaksin Inquiry Summons Picture courtesy: Daily News The Ministry of Justice and the Department of Corrections have formally requested Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, Speaker of the House of Representatives, to resolve jurisdictional concerns regarding a second summons by the House’s Committee on National Security. The inquiry focuses on former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s hospital stay during his incarceration. At a press conference on 21 November, Somboon Muangklum, an adviser to the Justice Minister, stated that the Ministry aims to cooperate fully but questions the committee's authority. He highlighted concerns over overlapping responsibilities with the Police Affairs Committee, which has already conducted investigations into Thaksin’s treatment at the Police General Hospital. The Department of Corrections has expressed reservations, citing three main reasons. First, the National Security Committee's mandate, as defined by the Constitution, does not cover this matter. Second, the issue has already been examined by the Police Affairs Committee, raising concerns about duplication of effort. Finally, independent agencies like the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) and the Ombudsman are already investigating, reducing the need for further parliamentary oversight. The Justice Ministry has communicated its concerns to the Speaker and the committee, referencing legal provisions and parliamentary rules. While the National Security Committee has summoned over ten officials, including the Justice Minister, for a hearing on 22 November, it remains unclear whether all will attend. Somboon indicated that attendance would be at the discretion of each individual. When asked if the absence of officials might be construed as an attempt to conceal information, Somboon dismissed the notion, citing ongoing investigations by the NACC and other bodies. He also denied allegations of preferential treatment for Thaksin, noting that scrutiny of his case is extensive. The issue of overlapping inquiries has drawn attention to broader questions of committee jurisdiction and efficiency. Somboon reiterated the Ministry’s willingness to cooperate within appropriate legal boundaries while emphasising the need for clarity in parliamentary processes, reported Daily News. -- 2024-11-22

Kalasin’s Oldest Resident Passes Away at 121 Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Kalasin Province mourns the passing of Mrs. Ple Thongdaeng, affectionately known as the "Longevity Grandma," who died on 16 November at the remarkable age of 121. Her funeral was held at Wat Pa Non Kham, Ban Muang. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344247-kalasin’s-oldest-resident-passes-away-at-121/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Kalasin Province mourns the passing of Mrs. Ple Thongdaeng, affectionately known as the "Longevity Grandma," who died on 16 November at the remarkable age of 121. Her funeral was held at Wat Pa Non Kham, Ban Muang. Mrs. Ple gained national attention in 2019 when health officials identified her as one of four centenarians in Sahatsakhan District with excellent health and no chronic illnesses. Her family attributed her long life to her love of farming, simple living, and a diet rich in bananas, particularly the Nam Wa variety. Her youngest sibling, 85-year-old Mrs. Sawatdee Phosuriya, shared memories of her sister's tireless work ethic. Mrs. Ple raised her six siblings and cared for several orphans, showcasing exceptional skills in farming, weaving, and basketry. She avoided hospitals throughout her life and maintained her health by eating local dishes like papaya salad, fish, and mushrooms, all minimally seasoned with salt or fish sauce. Her daughter, Mrs. Charoenjit Thongdaeng, 57, recalled her mother’s passion for gardening and her meticulous upkeep of the household. Mrs. Ple preferred homemade meals with fresh vegetables and boiled water, rejecting store-bought beverages unless boiled first. Village headman Mr. Duean Kamnadee, 55, noted Mrs. Ple’s enduring vitality, attributing her longevity to her daily consumption of Nam Wa bananas, often preserved by sun-drying slices for future use. Her legacy of resilience and simplicity continues to inspire the local community, reported Thai Rath. -- 2024-11-22

Ex-Commissioner Warns of Legal Risks in Cash Handout Scheme A former election commissioner raised concerns over the Thai government's 10,000-baht (£230) cash handout scheme, labelling it as potentially illegal. With 4 million elderly Thais set to receive funds during Chinese New Year, only days Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344246-ex-commissioner-warns-of-legal-risks-in-cash-handout-scheme/

Picture courtesy: TNA-MCOT A former election commissioner raised concerns over the Thai government's 10,000-baht (£230) cash handout scheme, labelling it as potentially illegal. With 4 million elderly Thais set to receive funds during Chinese New Year, only days before provincial administrative organisation elections, the timing has raised eyebrows. Somchai Srisutthiyakorn, a noted figure in Thai politics, highlighted on social media that the government's justification for the scheme - identifying all those aged 60 and above as vulnerable - is problematic. He argued this broad classification is a strategic manoeuvre to distribute budget funds without attracting allegations of electioneering. This handout is set for 29 January, just ahead of 1 February elections, prompting Mr Somchai to predict that formal challenges will ensue, citing a violation of the State Fiscal and Financial Disciplines Act BE 2561 (2018). According to the Act, government actions should not focus primarily on gaining political popularity at the expense of economic stability. Criticism also came from Niphon Bunyamanee, ex-PAO chief and Democrat Party member, who dismissed claims that the cash injections would stimulate the economy. He described the scheme as governmental promotion, advantaging Pheu Thai-affiliated candidates in the run-up to elections. Bunyamanee urged the government to shift towards long-term economic strategies, such as enhancing investment in digital technology and AI skills, fostering employment, and increasing productivity. Further legal opposition was hinted at by former senator Somchai Sawangkarn, who foresaw contravention of the country's fiscal laws. The contentious handout scheme, inherently tied to political gain allegations, highlights ongoing debates over fiscal responsibility and ethical governance in the lead-up to local Thai elections, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-22

Mysterious Sign Offers to Buy Haunted Houses in Rayong Picture courtesy: Daily News A peculiar sign offering to purchase haunted houses has caused quite a stir in Rayong, Thailand. The sign, featuring the names and contact numbers of two individuals interested in such spooky properties, was discovered by a local man known as Uncle Kai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344233-mysterious-sign-offers-to-buy-haunted-houses-in-rayong/

Picture courtesy: Daily News A peculiar sign offering to purchase haunted houses has caused quite a stir in Rayong, Thailand. The sign, featuring the names and contact numbers of two individuals interested in such spooky properties, was discovered by a local man known as Uncle Kai. While driving past a road behind the Wat Krok Yai Cha temple, Uncle Kai captured an image of the unusual sign and shared it widely on social media, intrigued by its odd proposition. Located in front of a motorcycle wash shop near a temple crematorium, the sign drew the attention of a local reporter who decided to investigate further. In attempting to contact the numbers listed, the reporter managed to speak with 33-year-old Ms. Suthima Rungsrirat, who agreed to an interview. Suthima, who also goes by Khun Ploy, explained her motivations behind the intriguing offer. As someone already involved in purchasing, renovating, and reselling old houses, she wanted to capture attention with an eye-catching sign. She cleverly equated old houses with haunted ones, despite her mother's concerns about the lack of auspiciousness in the idea. Picture courtesy: Daily News The striking nature of the sign has indeed generated interest, with several potential sellers reaching out to Suthima. Among these inquiries was an offer to purchase a house reportedly haunted by a ghost that lingers outside. Suthima's company buys and revamps all types of old houses, often for resale. For customers concerned about a property's spooky reputation, the company offers a ritual to dispel spirits, ensuring that any buyer can dwell in peace - both literally and metaphorically. -- 2024-11-22

House Panel Lacks Authority to Summon Thaksin for Inquiry Bangkok Police Hospital. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia A House committee investigating allegations of privileged treatment afforded to Thailand's former prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, during his detention at Police General Hospital in Bangkok, has been informed that it lacks the necessary authority to summon him or relevant agencies. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344230-house-panel-lacks-authority-to-summon-thaksin-for-inquiry/

Bangkok Police Hospital. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia A House committee investigating allegations of privileged treatment afforded to Thailand's former prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, during his detention at Police General Hospital in Bangkok, has been informed that it lacks the necessary authority to summon him or relevant agencies. The Department of Corrections has curtailed the committee's aspirations, stating the investigation falls outside its jurisdiction. The committee on state security, border affairs, national strategy and reform, led by opposition People’s Party MP Rangsiman Rome, claims to have uncovered 'worrying' information in a previous session, pointing to the handling of sick prisoners and standards of care in police hospitals. However, the Department of Corrections, reiterated by Somboon Muangklam, an adviser to the justice minister, indicates this overlaps with investigations already being conducted by other bodies, including the police affairs committee. Despite these constraints, the committee has extended invitations to Thaksin, Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong, and other key figures to attend its meetings. The aim is to demystify public perceptions and provide transparency over allegations that Thaksin received preferential hospital treatment. Rangsiman Rome, speaking on Thursday, urged Thaksin to clarify the situation publicly, asserting that an explanation could dispel lingering doubts among the populace. Yet, it remains uncertain whether the justice minister or corrections chief will attend the hearings scheduled for Friday. Thaksin, having returned to Thailand in August after a 15-year self-exile period, was promptly incarcerated by the Supreme Court's directive. His imprisonment term was initially set for eight years but subsequently reduced to one year via royal pardon. Notably, despite a formal prison sentence, Thaksin began his detention in Police General Hospital and subsequently walked free after securing parole, igniting criticism over the conditions of his stay, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-22

Colombian Theft Duo Caught After Chiang Mai Burglary Spree Picture courtesy: MGR online In a significant breakthrough, Chiang Mai police have captured two Colombian nationals suspected of committing a series of thefts in the area, following their audacious burglary at a Chinese family's home. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344205-colombian-theft-duo-caught-after-chiang-mai-burglary-spree/

Arab tourist accused of assaulting ladyboy in Patong, Phuket A troubling incident unfolded in Patong, Phuket, where a 35 year old ladyboy from Songkhla was allegedly assaulted by an Arab tourist. This incident, which took place outside a massage shop on the bustling Bangla Road, has sparked an investigation by local police. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344203-arab-tourist-accused-of-assaulting-ladyboy-in-patong-phuket/

Russian driver crashes into Thai couple’s motorcycle, denies responsibility Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A Thai couple is seeking justice after a Russian man allegedly crashed his SUV into their motorcycle on a Phuket road and failed to take responsibility for their injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344214-russian-driver-crashes-into-thai-couple’s-motorcycle-denies-responsibility/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 22 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1344195-thailand-live-friday-22-november-2024/

Photo via FM91 BKK South Korean man arrested for drug trafficking and visa overstay The Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) and the Immigration Bureau arrested a South Korean man in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen for overstaying his visa and trafficking drugs from Thailand to South Korea. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344190-south-korean-man-arrested-for-drug-trafficking-and-visa-overstay/

Colombian Theft Duo Caught After Chiang Mai Burglary Spree Picture courtesy: MGR online In a significant breakthrough, Chiang Mai police have captured two Colombian nationals suspected of committing a series of thefts in the area, following their audacious burglary at a Chinese family's home. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344205-colombian-theft-duo-caught-after-chiang-mai-burglary-spree/

Picture courtesy: MGR online In a significant breakthrough, Chiang Mai police have captured two Colombian nationals suspected of committing a series of thefts in the area, following their audacious burglary at a Chinese family's home. The suspects, identified as Mr. Cesar Armando Gomex Rodriguez, 20, and Mr. Sebastian Olaya Manrique, 26, allegedly stole items worth over a million baht, including cash, luxury watches, and a designer handbag. The investigation began when Mr. Gou Sinan, a Chinese resident, reported that his family home in Karnkanok Ville Village 18 was burglarised on November 15th, between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m. CCTV footage revealed one man arriving in a white sedan, followed by two men on bicycles, who pilfered the valuables before making their getaway. Swift police action traced the suspects to a parking lot at Kad Wan Kham, within the Kad Farang project in Hang Dong district. The duo was arrested based on warrants issued by the Chiang Mai court. Authorities seized four bicycles, believed to be used in their thefts, from various locations linked to the suspects. Despite denying all charges with the help of an interpreter, the two men have been implicated in a string of burglaries across Chiang Mai City and the surrounding areas, including Phu Ping Ratchaniwet and San Sai. Police suspect the stolen goods were being sent back to Colombia. Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatchai Phongwiwatchachai, leading the operation, expressed confidence in the evidence accumulated against the suspects, indicating the pair are part of a larger network. Efforts are underway to apprehend additional gang members believed to have participated in these crimes, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-21

Indian man arrested for firing blank gun in Pattaya neighbourhood by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya News Chaos ensued in a residential neighbourhood of Soi Kopai on 4/1 in Pattaya when a 36 year old Indian national fired a blank gun into the sky, causing widespread panic. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344157-indian-man-arrested-for-firing-blank-gun-in-pattaya-neighbourhood/