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After more than 1,000 tons of carcinogenic cadmium waste from Tak went missing, concerns are growing that loopholes in Thailand’s hazardous waste controls could be fatal. Exposure to cadmium and its compounds can lead to fever, headache, and breathing difficulties. Worse still, it is known to cause cancer and also exacerbate diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Health checks on locals living near a Samut Sakhon-based foundry where 6,492 tons of smuggled cadmium waste was found earlier this month showed unusually high levels of the poisonous metal in 16 people’s urine. They require medical treatment. The foundry’s operator, J&B Metal Co Ltd, was listed as the buyer and recycler of 13,882 tonnes of cadmium waste from Tak-based Bound and Beyond Public Co Ltd (BEYOND), previously known as Padaeng Industry. However, only half of that amount was found when the foundry was searched by officials from the Department of Industrial Works and the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division. A further probe led to the discovery of 6,043 tons of cadmium waste in four other locations, including Samut Sakhon-based Cin Hong Check Inter Tech Co Ltd. A co-owner of Cin Hong said he had bought 5,000 tons of cadmium waste from J&B Metal for 8,250 baht per ton to sell to another Chinese businessman, whose factory is located in Chon Buri. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-04-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Elderly rice farmer dies in field blaze in Udon Thani by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic incident occurred yesterday in Udon Thani province where a 73 year old rice farmer perished in a blaze that swept through his field. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325454-elderly-rice-farmer-dies-in-field-blaze-in-udon-thani/

A tragic incident occurred yesterday in Udon Thani province where a 73 year old rice farmer perished in a blaze that swept through his field. Police Deputy Inspector Niwat Jaengkrathok of Huai Luang Police Station, alongside medical personnel from Udon Thani Hospital Center and the Sawang Metha Tham rescue team, responded to the distress call at Ban Naklong, in the Mueang district. Amidst the charred remains of rice straw, the rice farmer, Bualong’s body lay scorched by the fire that had engulfed the paddy field. Earlier that afternoon, his 41 year old daughter-in-law, Tipwaly, had seen him at home enjoying a meal. Upon her return from the market at 5pm, Bualong was nowhere to be found, prompting a search that led to the devastating discovery. Tipwaly recounted the harrowing moments when she ventured into the fields and initially saw someone burning rice straw. Believing it to be her father-in-law, she approached only to find a knife on the ground, which filled her with a sense of dread. Her calls went unanswered, and her worst fears were confirmed upon finding Bualong’s body. She reflected on previous warnings to him not to burn the fields that day due to the stormy conditions and strong winds, reported KhaoSod. Preliminary investigations suggest that the combination of intense heat and Bualong’s old age may have caused him to faint or collapse, leaving him at the mercy of the flames. In related news, a commercial building in Pattaya was engulfed in flames last Thursday night, resulting in two individuals injured. The fire broke out at 7.06pm at a structure within the Ta Kian Tia sub-district of the Bang Lamung District in Chon Buri Province. The building was known to accommodate a shop selling kratom juice. In other news, a single-storey concrete house was engulfed in flames, leading to extensive damage and a call for those responsible to come forward. This incident, which occurred on March 24, is believed to have originated from local farmers illegally burning rice straw in nearby fields, causing the fire to spread uncontrollably. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chiang Mai Zoo Aquarium Reopens After Renovation by Krajangwit Johjit CHIANG MAI (NNT) - Chiang Mai Zoo has reopened its aquarium following a 29-million-baht renovation funded by the Zoological Park Organization (ZPO). The renovation, which upgraded facilities and enhanced the aquarium's educational and conservation functions, was completed in time for its reopening at the beginning of this month. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325453-chiang-mai-zoo-aquarium-reopens-after-renovation/

CHIANG MAI (NNT) - Chiang Mai Zoo has reopened its aquarium following a 29-million-baht renovation funded by the Zoological Park Organization (ZPO). The renovation, which upgraded facilities and enhanced the aquarium's educational and conservation functions, was completed in time for its reopening at the beginning of this month. The newly renovated aquarium, nestled on a mountain and recognized as the country's first, has been designed with a focus on environmental protection. ZPO Director-General Attapon Srihayrun said the improvements are anticipated to lead to a 10% increase in revenue from admission fees. The facility boasts the world's longest underwater tunnel, extending 133 meters, and features an extensive collection of river fish species. Over 80 species from the Mekong and Chao Phraya Basins are exhibited at the site, making it both a major tourist attraction and one of the vital research and conservation centers in the North. Improvements made during the renovation also include enhancements to the aquarium's air conditioning, walkways, and ventilation systems, all of which aim to improve the well-being of the marine animals housed there. The ZPO has also allocated an additional one million baht to expand the variety of marine species displayed within the zoo. by Krajangwit Johjit Source: NNT 2024-04-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Police and Resident Reunite Vietnamese Tourist with Lost iPhone By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: สภ.เมืองพัทยา Pattaya — A Vietnamese tourist was reunited with her lost iPhone thanks to the kindness of a good Samaritan and police officers in Pattaya. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325452-pattaya-police-and-resident-reunite-vietnamese-tourist-with-lost-iphone/

Pattaya — A Vietnamese tourist was reunited with her lost iPhone thanks to the kindness of a good Samaritan and police officers in Pattaya. The female tourist, who was preparing to return to Bangkok, realized her iPhone had gone missing. She immediately reported the incident to the Pattaya police. The officers went to search the vehicle that the tourist took to Pattaya. Fortunately, even though they did not find the phone in the vehicle, their tireless efforts led them to a nearby street where they spotted a Thai citizen holding the lost iPhone. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: สภ.เมืองพัทยา Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Children fall ill after Songkran foam party in Suphan Buri by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A sudden outbreak of illness following a Songkran foam party in Suphan Buri has left around 50 children with symptoms of vomiting and nausea, necessitating their immediate hospitalisation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325450-children-fall-ill-after-songkran-foam-party-in-suphan-buri/

A sudden outbreak of illness following a Songkran foam party in Suphan Buri has left around 50 children with symptoms of vomiting and nausea, necessitating their immediate hospitalisation. The incident occurred at a water tunnel and foam party held at the Suphan Buri Banana Conservation Center. Following the event, parents rushed their children to the Chao Phraya Yommarat Hospital and various private hospitals after the children developed symptoms such as diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Health officials suspect a rotavirus infection and have collected water samples from the end of the water tunnel and the hoses used to mix the foam for testing. The Public Health Doctor of Suphan Buri, Ratthaphon Wejchasarn, reported the hospitalisation of approximately 50 children with gastrointestinal symptoms post-Songkran celebrations. While some were admitted to the hospital, others were discharged after treatment. The investigation by the provincial public health office suggests that the common factor among the affected individuals was their attendance at the foam party, leading to the hypothesis that the sickness was caused by a pathogen. Preliminary reports from medical teams indicate rotavirus, a common cause of gastroenteritis. The virus could have been transmitted via contaminated hands or objects, leading to the outbreak. Treatment is symptomatic, including medication for nausea, vomiting, and fever. All patients are currently under medical supervision, and no severe cases have been reported given the significant number of cases, attentive medical care is warranted at both Chao Phraya Yommarat Hospital and private healthcare facilities. Ratthaphon further noted that the investigation traced the source of infection to a single contact point at the event. He advises anyone who attended the event and is experiencing symptoms to drink plenty of water, eat easily digestible food, rest adequately, and seek medical attention if symptoms like vomiting or extreme lethargy persist. Investigation Health authorities in Suphan Buri collected water samples from the site for laboratory testing, which includes: two samples from the end of the water tunnel and the foam-mixing hoses, one sample from a handwashing tap to check for chlorine residue, and three samples to test for viruses and bacteria that cause gastroenteritis and food poisoning. The samples will be analysed by the Medical Science Center in Samut Songkhram, with results expected within approximately 14 working days. A parent of children who attended the foam party revealed that they had gone to the event on April 16 with their nine year old daughter and twin sons aged one year and seven months. Two days later, all children showed symptoms of vomiting, lethargy, and diarrhoea, prompting a visit to Chao Phraya Yommarat Hospital where they were admitted to monitor their condition, reported KhaoSod. In response to the outbreak, the Banana Conservation Centre has announced through its Facebook page that while the foam party will continue to operate from 4pm to 8pm, the water tunnel will be closed pending health inspection results. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand faces a decline in British tourists and Expats: Causes and Consequences file photo for reference only BANGKOK – Thailand, a country that has long held a special place in the hearts of British travelers and expats, is witnessing a significant drop in the number of visitors from the United Kingdom. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325446-thailand-faces-a-decline-in-british-tourists-and-expats-causes-and-consequences/

File photo for reference only BANGKOK – Thailand, a country that has long held a special place in the hearts of British travelers and expats, is witnessing a significant drop in the number of visitors from the United Kingdom. A detailed analysis by the Pattaya Mail, along with insights from industry experts, highlights a complex set of factors driving this shift. This trend raises concerns for Thailand's tourism-dependent economy, its expat community, and its future appeal to British travelers. From Staple Destination to Shifting Tides For decades, British tourists have flocked to Thailand's sun-drenched beaches, vibrant cities, and affordable cost of living. Expats have enjoyed the tropical climate, entrepreneurial opportunities, and the Thai hospitality that made the country a popular choice for establishing a life abroad. However, a combination of economic, bureaucratic, and competitive pressures is eroding Thailand's traditional appeal for British travelers. The Cost Factor: Rising Expenses and Neighboring Options The rising cost of international airfare, fueled by global inflation and fluctuating fuel prices, is taking a toll on British travel budgets. Simultaneously, other Southeast Asian destinations like Vietnam, Indonesia, and Cambodia are becoming increasingly popular. These destinations offer similar cultural experiences and exotic allure, often at a lower price point. This increased competition puts pressure on Thailand to offer a uniquely compelling value proposition to attract cost-conscious tourists. Expat Challenges: Bureaucracy and Diminishing Opportunities British expats in Thailand report navigating increasingly complex immigration procedures, including stricter visa requirements and work permit regulations. This bureaucratic maze is discouraging potential expats, while those already established may feel a waning sense of security. "Thailand used to be welcoming to foreign entrepreneurs and skilled workers," remarked a British expat running a business in Bangkok. "Now, it feels like they're putting up roadblocks, which makes you think twice about the long-term viability of staying here." Furthermore, a perception is growing among British expats that high-quality job opportunities, particularly in sought-after sectors like education and technology, are dwindling. This creates uncertainty for those planning a move and disincentivizes existing expats who may be considering other locations in the region. The "X-Factor": Thailand's Evolving Image Beyond tangible costs and regulations, a subtler shift in Thailand's perceived image may be at play. Some British tourists mention concerns about overdevelopment in certain areas, diminishing authenticity, and occasional reports of scams or incidents targeting foreigners. While these issues might not be widespread, they can contribute to an overall impression that influences a traveler's decision-making process. Consequences for Thailand The decline in British tourism and the shrinking expat community could have far-reaching consequences for Thailand. British visitors have been a consistent source of revenue, particularly for businesses catering to Western tastes and preferences. A decrease in spending power from this demographic could strain local economies dependent on tourism. Additionally, the expat community plays a vital role in Thailand's workforce. British expats often possess skills and expertise that contribute to sectors like education, hospitality, and entrepreneurship. Their diminishing numbers could create gaps in the labor market and stifle innovation driven by foreign business ventures. Potential Strategies: Rekindling the Connection The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is acutely aware of these trends and the need to adapt. Targeted marketing campaigns highlighting Thailand's unique offerings, such as its rich cultural heritage, diverse natural landscapes, and world-renowned cuisine, could help re-ignite British interest. Additionally, the government may need to reassess policies affecting expats. Streamlining visa and work permit processes, and fostering a welcoming environment for foreign businesses, could reverse the perception of increasing barriers. Conclusion Whether this decline represents a temporary dip or a long-term change in British travel preferences remains to be seen. Thailand has an opportunity to address the underlying causes and revitalize its connection with British tourists and expats. Success will depend on navigating economic realities, easing bureaucratic hurdles, and preserving the qualities that made Thailand a beloved destination in the first place. -- ASEAN NOW 2024-04-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Teen’s airsoft gun rampage sparks chaos at Songkran in Pattaya by Top Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Chaos erupted during the Songkran festivities as a teenager brandishing airsoft guns incited fear and panic in Soi 7, Central Pattaya, sending shockwaves through the crowd of over a thousand tourists on April 15. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325442-teen’s-airsoft-gun-rampage-sparks-chaos-at-songkran-in-pattaya/

Chaos erupted during the Songkran festivities as a teenager brandishing airsoft guns incited fear and panic in Soi 7, Central Pattaya, sending shockwaves through the crowd of over a thousand tourists on April 15. Pattaya police swiftly apprehended the 17 year old juvenile responsible for the terrorizing act, taking him to the police station for questioning. Police Lieutenant Colonel Thananon Athipansi, Deputy Superintendent of Pattaya police, explained that the confrontation ensued when the juvenile and his friends encountered another group participating in the water-splashing festivities. “Verbal exchanges escalated into physical violence, with the opposing group assaulting the juvenile’s younger sibling and provoking them.” In retaliation, the juvenile retrieved the airsoft guns, wielding them menacingly to intimidate the other group before both parties dispersed. Further investigations uncovered a history of disputes between the two groups, with previous clashes, including physical assaults and the use of airsoft guns, reported at Bali Hai Pier, reported Pattaya Mail. Months earlier, they were involved in a shooting incident at the beachfront near Mae Sriruen restaurant in Pattaya, resulting in injuries. In related news, a joyous Songkran celebration took a tragic turn in Sattahip, Chon Buri when four young individuals were caught in a hail of gunfire on April 16. The incident has left one person dead and has the police on a manhunt for the suspected gunman. The incident took place during the Songkran festivities taking place on Soi Bon Kai in Sattahip district. Sattahip police were notified about the incident and arrived on the scene to find three young men and a 13 year old girl with gunshot wounds to their torsos. In other news, the lively Thaweewong Road, on Patong Beach in Phuket, bore witness to a heated dispute between two foreign visitors at a Songkran event. This incident, occurring around 4.20pm on April 13, was sparked by a minor altercation involving a water gun. by Top Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Expert from Thai Revenue Department to speak about rules on foreign income at Hua Hin event By Online Reporter Following the news that regulations requiring tax residents to pay personal income tax on income brought into Thailand from overseas may soon start being enforced, an event due to be held in Hua Hin in May aims to provide up to date information on the situation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325437-expert-from-thai-revenue-department-to-speak-about-rules-on-foreign-income-at-hua-hin-event/

Following the news that regulations requiring tax residents to pay personal income tax on income brought into Thailand from overseas may soon start being enforced, an event due to be held in Hua Hin in May aims to provide up to date information on the situation. The event will feature industry leading experts and notably, and expert from Thailand’s Revenue Department, who will aim to provide some clarity on the latest tax implications, in particular with regards to personal income tax for people residing in Thailand. The event is free to attend and should not be missed by anyone who is potentially affected by the issue. By Online Reporter Full story: HUA HIN TODAY 2024-04-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Tourist Assaulted at Songkran Festival in Sattahip Reportedly for Just Dancing By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Naewna Sattahip, Chonburi —A Thai tourist from Chiang Mai was smacked in the head with the blunt end of a pistol at the Nong Chap Tao Temple in Sattahip, Chonburi, Thursday night reportedly for just dancing and enjoying himself. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325436-thai-tourist-assaulted-at-songkran-festival-in-sattahip-reportedly-for-just-dancing/

Sattahip, Chonburi —A Thai tourist from Chiang Mai was smacked in the head with the blunt end of a pistol at the Nong Chap Tao Temple in Sattahip, Chonburi, Thursday night reportedly for just dancing and enjoying himself. The incident was reported to Sattahip police in the middle of the night on April 18th, 2024. The victim, identified only as Mr. Nakorn, suffered a head injury and was taken to Wat Yan Hospital for treatment. According to Mr. Nakorn, he had traveled from Chiang Mai to attend the Songkran festival at the temple in Sattahip. He was dancing to music at the main stage when he was attacked. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Naewna Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Police Reunite Lost 4-Year-Old Girl with Parents During Songkran Festival By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya —Pattaya police reunited a lost 4-year-old girl with her parents during the Songkran festival in Na Klua on Thursday, April 18th, 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325435-pattaya-police-reunite-lost-4-year-old-girl-with-parents-during-songkran-festival/

Pattaya —Pattaya police reunited a lost 4-year-old girl with her parents during the Songkran festival in Na Klua on Thursday, April 18th, 2024. The incident unfolded when the young girl, identified as Nong A, became separated from her parents near Pattaya-Naklua Road on Thursday night. Volunteer staff from the Thappraya 2310 team brought Nong A to the Banglamung Police Station. There, she met with Pol. Lt. Col. Wuthipong Kasa, the station’s investigation officer, who helped reunite her with the parents. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Pickpocket Arrested in Pattaya After Stealing from Foreign Tourists By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya —Pattaya Tourist Police arrested a Thai female pickpocket who stole from foreign tourists during the Songkran festival celebrations on Walking Street. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325434-thai-pickpocket-arrested-in-pattaya-after-stealing-from-foreign-tourists/

Pattaya —Pattaya Tourist Police arrested a Thai female pickpocket who stole from foreign tourists during the Songkran festival celebrations on Walking Street. At 2:46 AM on April 19th, 2024, Pattaya Tourist Police officers apprehended Ms. Sumalee Kima-rae, a 59-year-old woman from Phetchaboon province, on Walking Street in South Pattaya. The arrest was made based on the positive identification of the suspect by a Chinese tourist couple. According to Pol Lt Col Piyapong Ensan, Pattaya Tourist Police Inspector, the suspect was caught by the Chinese couple attempting to slash their backpack from behind to steal the items inside. The tourists were enjoying the Songkran festivities; however, they felt a tug on their backpack. Subsequently, the couple discovered that their bag had been slashed and their belongings stolen. They immediately caught the suspect, who they had been cautiously observing, and brought her to the nearby Tourist Police stationed on Walking Street. During the interrogation, Ms. Sumalee reportedly confessed to the crime and even demonstrated her pickpocketing techniques to the officers. She revealed that she was part of a four-person gang that carried out such acts, each member playing a specific role. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Couple Of F-16 Jets Join 4 Others In Patrolling Thai-Myanmar Border By Thai Newsroom Reporters Thai air force F-16 Fighting Falcon jets. Photo: Thai Rath A COUPLE OF THE THAI AIR FORCE’S F-16 Fighting Falcon jets today (Apr. 19) joined four others of the same type in conducting regular air patrols over Thai territory across the border from the war-torn Myanmar. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325432-couple-of-f-16-jets-join-4-others-in-patrolling-thai-myanmar-border/

A COUPLE OF THE THAI AIR FORCE’S F-16 Fighting Falcon jets today (Apr. 19) joined four others of the same type in conducting regular air patrols over Thai territory across the border from the war-torn Myanmar. Both General Dynamics F-16A/B fighter jets from Wing 1 in Nakhon Ratchasima are operating as a fresh addition to the four F-16A/Bs from Wing 4 in Takhli with air patrol missions in Thai air space over Mae Sarieng district of Mae Hong Son and Mae Sot district of Tak, opposite Hpapun and Myawaddy townships in Kayin state of Myanmar respectively, according to an air force source. The six F-16A/Bs are practically rotating to fly in their shared mission for the day/night air patrols along the Thai-Myanmar border whilst the air force pilots have been instructed to literally see to it that no foreign combat aircraft “stray” from inside Myanmar into Thai air space, either purposely or inadvertently, over those border areas which could otherwise adversely affect Thai villagers, the source said. By Thai Newsroom Reporters Thai air force F-16 Fighting Falcon jets. Photo: Thai Rath Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-04-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

French Woman Arrested On Attempted Kidnap, Robbery Charges by TNR Staff A FRENCH woman was arrested at a hotel in Silom area on the charges of heading a gang that had hatched a plan to kidnap the daughter of a high-society family for 200 million baht ransom, Amarin TV said today (Apr. 19). At 10 p.m. last night Metropolitan Police arrested Ms.Sandra Christina Marie Diersten, 45, at a hotel in Silom Soi 3 under a warrant issued on April 5, 2024. Police said they took action after this well-known family, whose initial is Sor, had filed a complaint at Thong Lor police station that a gang of foreigners intended to kidnap their daughter and rob them of 200 million baht. However the plot collapsed after one of the gang members changed his mind and alerted the family. Upon being informed police conducted an investigation then obtained an arrest warrant for the suspect. Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-04-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Police Capture French Mastermind Allegedly Involved in Kidnap and Ransom Scheme By Kittisak Phalaharn Bangkok—At 10:00 PM, on April 18th, 2024, Thai metropolitan investigative police captured a French mastermind who was allegedly involved in the kidnap and ransom scheme of a millionaire’s daughter at a hotel in Silom, Bang Rak, Bangkok. Ms. Sandra Christina Marie Dierstein, a 45-year-old French national, was a prime suspect according to the criminal court’s arrest warrant. According to the police report, a millionaire’s family reported to Thonglor police that a group of foreigners schemed to rob and kidnap the daughter of the family for ransom of 200 million baht. However, the scheme was exposed by one of the accomplices to the victim’s family. The police investigated the case and requested arrest warrants from the criminal court for Sandra, the alleged French mastermind of the scheme. Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-20 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe