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Thailand is addressing the plight of stateless immigrants from neighbouring countries, with a new policy to grant citizenship to 483,000 such individuals. However, this initiative does not extend to western expats or retirees. The Ministry of the Interior clarified that this effort is aimed at people from Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia who have lived in Thailand for decades, often statelessly, writes Barry Kanyon for Pattaya Mail. There had been some confusion, leading expats, particularly retirees from the UK and USA, to inquire about possible benefits for themselves. Some wrongly assumed it related to taxation on overseas income brought into Thailand. Nonetheless, this policy strictly targets immigrants and ethnic minorities who have long been residing in Thailand without a defined status. Ms Trisulee Traisanakul, secretary to the interior ministry, stated that most of those eligible are from Myanmar or stateless individuals from disputed border regions. The objective is to grant them a proper legal status, which in turn should stimulate the economy and allow these groups to work legally. Thailand is experiencing a demographic challenge with a dropping birth rate and an increasing elderly population. By 2074, the native population could halve to around 30 million. The policy, therefore, also aims to address this fertility crisis by increasing the working-age population. The Department of Provincial Administration has undertaken research on these immigrant groups, and the citizenship application process may include self-certification where necessary. Gaining Thai citizenship offers rights such as voting in elections and land ownership. The citizenship eligibility for westerners generally requires permanent resident status, based on a solid history of legal employment or significant contributions to Thai society. However, addressing the stateless immigrant issue has been a governmental focus and is now being actively pursued. -- 2024-11-02

KO tragedy: British boxing hopeful’s final round in Pattaya hotel by Bob Scott A young British boxing hopeful was found lifeless at the swanky Vogue Hotel in Pattaya, Thailand. The grim discovery of Joshua Goldstone in the early hours of Wednesday, October 30, has left friends and fans reeling, as the boxer’s Australian mate is battling for his life amidst the scandalous surroundings of a potential drug overdose. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342304-ko-tragedy-british-boxing-hopeful’s-final-round-in-pattaya-hotel/

A young British boxing hopeful was found lifeless at the swanky Vogue Hotel in Pattaya, Thailand. The grim discovery of Joshua Goldstone in the early hours of Wednesday, October 30, has left friends and fans reeling, as the boxer’s Australian mate is battling for his life amidst the scandalous surroundings of a potential drug overdose. The 21 year old fighter’s body was discovered on the fourth-floor suite of the lavish resort, lying face-up next to his 27 year old Aussie comrade, Jayson Tonkin. Friends have taken to social media to express their heartbreak. “Rest in peace. It’s shocking news and so sad. You will be missed by many people.” With Tonkin in a deep coma, the future remains uncertain for the Sydney-based Muay Thai fighter. Picture of Josh Goldstone courtesy of Tapology The plot thickens as Thai police delve into the murky circumstances surrounding the incident. Tonkin could be facing serious drug charges if he ever regains consciousness. Reports suggest the pair consumed a deadly mix of marijuana and illegal ketamine. Officers have swept the scene, confiscating drugs and paraphernalia, yet found no signs of a violent altercation. In a bizarre twist, Thai police allegedly initially bungled the announcement, misidentifying Tonkin as the deceased. Police Lieutenant Thanawi Yarangsi clarified the confusion, while other officials insist a drug overdose seems the likely cause of this tragic event, reported the Daily Mail. While family and friends hope for Tonkin’s recovery, the boxing world is left questioning whether he will ever step into the ring again. Insiders whisper about his struggles with substance abuse, revealed in a candid podcast earlier this year. The Australian fighter had been in Thailand, preparing to knock out champion Tengnueng Sitjaesairoong, but the much-anticipated October 20 bout was called off due to torrential rain. Now, Thailand’s strict drug laws loom ominously over Tonkin. If convicted of possessing ketamine, the punishment could be severe: a sentence that could keep him behind bars for up to five years. Meanwhile, the UK’s Foreign Office remains tight-lipped, ensuring the Goldstone family that they are liaising closely with Thai authorities. As the sun sets on the tragic tale in tropical Pattaya, unanswered questions remain about the fate of the surviving fighter and the loss of a promising British talent. Pictures of Jayson Tonkin and the fateful bedroom where Josh Goldstone was found dead courtesy of Tonkin’s Instagram Original story: Australian man dies of suspected drug overdose in Pattaya hotel An Australian man died today of an alleged drug overdose in a Pattaya hotel, according to a heavily intoxicated friend. Officers from the Mueang Pattaya Police Station and rescuers from the Sawang Boriboon Pattaya Foundation were called today, October 30, to investigate the death at a hotel on Pattaya Sai Sam Road in the Bang Lamung district. The dead Australian man has been identified as 27 year old Jayson Peter Tonkin. Tonkin was found lying on the floor, wearing black shorts and a waist bag, but was shirtless. Police did not detect any signs of struggle or theft but found ketamine and cannabis in the room. Tonkin’s friend was present at the scene and was reportedly drunk when speaking with the police. Rescuers provided first aid to the deceased’s friend and rushed him to a hospital for a health check. Hotel workers reported to the police that they heard a noise coming from the foreigners’ room and went to investigate. They encountered the dead man’s friend standing outside the room, shaking. He asked the workers to check on his friend, who had suddenly stopped breathing. The hotel staff did not feel safe investigating the room themselves, so they called officers from the Mueang Pattaya Police Station to the scene. Following the discovery of the drugs and his friend’s intoxication, police suspected that Tonkin died from a drug overdose. However, officers have not yet concluded the case and were waiting for the deceased’s friend to be sober enough to attend questioning. by Bob Scott Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-01

Cyber cops caught in 300 million baht web of greed by Petch Petpailin Photo via Thai Rath Nine Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) officers and three additional suspects allegedly attempted to extort 300 million baht from a Vanuatu-Chinese couple. Ten suspects were arrested while two others remain at large. The Vanuatu man named Sai and his Chinese wife reported to officers at Bang Sue Police Station that a group of men claiming to be police officers swindled 5.7 million baht from him. The couple stated that the group included police officers, a Thai interpreter named Apartsara Sonklin and her Chinese husband named Yun Daliang. According to Sai, the group raided his home in the Bang Phli district of Samut Prakan province, presenting a document with the royal warrant and garuda emblem of Thailand, which convinced the couple to allow a search. Each police officer communicated with Sai and his wife through Apartsara, who acted as their interpreter. Apartsara read out a legal document to the couple, claiming that a Filipino suspect, who was arrested for making counterfeit passports, confessed that Sai was involved in the crime. Sai firmly insisted on his innocence, stating that he had no involvement in producing fake passports and did not know any Filipino suspects in the case. The situation escalated as the group seized the mobile phones of the couple, their housemaid, and Sai’s Chinese friend. They also inspected Sai’s computer, claiming they needed to search for evidence. 300 million baht demanded The group then offered the couple an ultimatum: pay 300 million baht, or 10 million USDT, to have all legal cases dropped. Sai refused, believing in his innocence. Consequently, the police took Sai, his wife, his Chinese friend, and the maid into their car. During the journey, the officers lowered their demand to 10 million baht, but Sai still refused. The group eventually brought them to the Cyber Crime office, where only Sai and his wife were taken to a separate room. Under pressure, Sai transferred a total of 5 million baht in both baht and USDT to the group. The cryptocurrency transfer went to Apartsara’s account but Sai did not disclose the destination of the baht transfer. After receiving the money, the corrupt officers took photographs of the couple, their maid, and Sai’s friend, then returned their mobile phones and allowed them to leave. However, Sai’s computer remained with the group. On October 17, around 1pm, Apartsara contacted Sai, claiming she knew who was behind his recent arrest but would only reveal the information if he transferred 700,000 baht. Sai agreed and made the transfer to Apartsara’s cryptocurrency account. However, after receiving the funds, Apartsara blocked Sai and provided no information. Suspects deny An investigation by Bang Sue Police Station officers confirmed nine genuine police officers and three others involved in the case, including six police officers and one Thai civilian: Police Lieutenant Colonel Chanachai Jaikla Police Captain Amnuay Kongklin Police Captain Thanakrit Kanchanamart Police Senior Sergeant Major Chayaphon Wongpan Police Senior Sergeant Major Pongthep Sangkala Police Senior Sergeant Major Manassawee Janyaluck Police Senior Sergeant Major Siam Thongmon Police Senior Sergeant Major Suphan Kongsai Police Sergeant Major Kittiphum Jeenplaengchart Warut Wanthongsook Apartsara Sonklin Apatsara’s Chinese husband, Yun Daliang Three of them surrendered at Tung Song Hong Police Station following the summon request including Thanakrit, Suphan, and Kittiphum. Police officers arrested more suspects on October 28, but Apatsara and her Chinese husband remain at large. The suspects were charged under Section 149 of the Criminal Code: requesting, receiving, or agreeing to receive property or benefits and committing illegal acts while holding an official position. The penalty ranges from five to 20 years of imprisonment, life imprisonment, or a fine of 100,000 to 400,000 baht. All suspects denied the allegations and requested bail, providing cash and property as collateral. They were granted bail and must submit documents to clarify their actions within seven years. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-01

Russian man faces Phuket charges for mafia-like intimidation by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of The Phuket News A Russian man, accused by his compatriots of acting with mafia-like intimidation, faces charges in Phuket after allegedly threatening several individuals, including former employees. Allegations against him include cutting the brake line of a motorcycle, an act that has led to charges of attempted murder, among others. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342287-russian-man-faces-phuket-charges-for-mafia-like-intimidation/

A Russian man, accused by his compatriots of acting with mafia-like intimidation, faces charges in Phuket after allegedly threatening several individuals, including former employees. Allegations against him include cutting the brake line of a motorcycle, an act that has led to charges of attempted murder, among others. Cherng Talay Police Chief Weeraphong Rakkhito confirmed that the investigation had concluded and the case report had been submitted to the prosecutor. The charges, initiated after complaints were made in June, encompass verbal and physical threats, stalking, property damage, and attempted murder through a traffic accident. Evidence submitted included CCTV footage, supporting the claims from eight victims. The accused, who runs a prominent swimming and language school in Cherng Talay, has been released on bail, as confirmed by the Phuket Public Prosecutor’s Office. The victims, comprising seven Russian nationals and one Uzbekistan citizen, reported a series of intimidating behaviours, such as physical threats, and revealed that tracking devices were placed on their vehicles, allowing the man to monitor their locations. One victim captured footage of him cutting the brake line on a motorcycle parked at a residence in Mai Khao. Despite the initial complaint being lodged at Phuket City Police Station, the Cherng Talay Police were responsible for the investigation due to jurisdictional reasons. The victims have voiced their fears of possible retaliation. In a joint statement to the Russian Embassy, they expressed their ongoing concern for their safety despite legal actions taken against the man. “So far, action has been taken against [the Russian man], and he continues to commit illegal acts. We are truly afraid for our safety.” Attempted murder After leaving Thailand temporarily, the accused returned following the filing of the complaint, causing further distress among those involved. One victim commented on the situation, stating that since the complaint, they have feared retribution. The Russian Consulate General confirmed his return to Thailand, amplifying their concerns. In their complaints, the victims detailed how the accused used his influence to eliminate competition within the swimming school business, which allegedly operated without legal permits and endangered children. Earlier this month, frustrated by the lack of communication from police regarding the case’s progress, the victims considered escalating the matter to the Department of Special Investigation (DSI). Nonetheless, Police Chief Weeraphong assured them of the police’s commitment to their case, reported The Phuket News. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of The Phuket News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-01

Thailand’s BRICS dreams: Up in the air but not grounded yet by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Konrad-Adenauer Stiftung Thailand’s bid for membership in the influential BRICS international organisation remains up in the air, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). The Government of Thailand is currently weighing the economic implications of joining this powerful bloc, with a decision pending in the House. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342286-thailand’s-brics-dreams-up-in-the-air-but-not-grounded-yet/

Thailand’s bid for membership in the influential BRICS international organisation remains up in the air, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). The Government of Thailand is currently weighing the economic implications of joining this powerful bloc, with a decision pending in the House. BRICS, which boasts heavyweights like Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, the UAE, Iran, Egypt, and Ethiopia, is a key player on the global stage. Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, appointed by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, attended a series of meetings in Kazan, Russia, yesterday, October 31, an invitation extended by none other than Russian President Vladimir Putin. This highlights Thailand’s intention to deepen its ties with BRICS, said the MFA. “Thailand reaffirmed its determination to elevate its engagement with BRICS, as expressed in a letter of interest to join the bloc as a full member back in June.” Amid swirling reports that Thailand had been officially welcomed as a BRICS partner, Nikorndej Balankura, the ministry’s spokesperson, clarified that no confirmation has been received. This speculation emerged following Maris’s participation in the BRICS Plus Summit in Kazan, where news of Thailand’s potential partnership began circulating on social media. A post from the BRICS News account stated, “BRICS decides not to accept any new full members for 2024. However, 13 new nations have been accepted as official partner countries, working towards full membership in the future.” The statement outlined the current BRICS members (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, the UAE, Iran, Egypt, and Ethiopia) while naming Thailand among the new official partners, which also include Algeria, Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Turkey, Uganda, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam, said spokesperson Nikorndej. “We need to receive official notification from the BRICS chair, which is Russia. We are hopeful about being recognised as a BRICS partner, but I cannot confirm anything until we get the official document.” by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Konrad-Adenauer Stiftung Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-01

Migrant Citizenship Plan Sparks Debate as Thai Govt Holds Firm File photo: Value In a move that has sparked heated debate, the Thai government has stood by its controversial decision to grant citizenship to approximately 483,000 long-term migrants and ethnic minority residents. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342276-migrant-citizenship-plan-sparks-debate-as-thai-govt-holds-firm/

File photo: Value In a move that has sparked heated debate, the Thai government has stood by its controversial decision to grant citizenship to approximately 483,000 long-term migrants and ethnic minority residents. This policy, endorsed by the cabinet in recent days, aims to resolve longstanding citizenship and residency issues whilst removing bureaucratic barriers that hindered their economic contribution. Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced the policy, emphasising that it aligns with current laws and is intended to both streamline administrative processes and fuel economic growth. However, this decision has met with opposition, with critics arguing it serves political ends rather than national interests. Direkrit Janekrongtham, a former senator, expressed concern on social media platforms, suggesting that citizenship could lead to extensive political and economic rights for the new citizens, potentially skewing political affiliations in favour of governing parties. He questioned whether the government prioritises national welfare over political gains, noting that the policy could enable these new citizens to vote and engage fully in Thailand’s political landscape. In response, Interior Ministry spokeswoman Traisulee Taisaranakul clarified that the policy does not disregard existing rules but seeks to expedite the processing of citizenship applications in line with international human rights principles. She reassured that those granted citizenship who subsequently pose a threat to national security could have their citizenship revoked. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai echoed this sentiment by defending the policy's intention to expedite the naturalisation process whilst adhering to the law. Proposed by the National Security Council (NSC), this initiative affects more than 480,000 individuals who either entered Thailand before 1999 or were born there, with current regulations hampering their ability to lead productive lives. With criticisms mounting, government spokesman Jirayu Huangsab highlighted the policy's efficiency improvements, stating it replaces a previous 2021 resolution, significantly reducing the protracted timeline for status confirmation. This revised framework permits applicants to self-certify eligibility, eliminating cumbersome evaluations by various agencies. As the debate ensues, the policy remains a focal point of contention, balancing human rights and national interest, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-01

Thaksin Visits PM Paetongtarn After Throat Infection Hospitalisation Picture courtesy: Daily News Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra visited his daughter, current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, on the evening of 31 October following her brief hospitalisation for a throat infection. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342275-thaksin-visits-pm-paetongtarn-after-throat-infection-hospitalisation/

Picture courtesy: Daily News Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra visited his daughter, current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, on the evening of 31 October following her brief hospitalisation for a throat infection. Earlier that day, Paetongtarn had taken medical leave after doctors diagnosed a bacterial infection that caused bronchial inflammation and hoarseness. Paetongtarn shared a video of her father’s visit on her Instagram Story, captioning it with a lighthearted message that read, “Youngest daughter falls ill, Dad rushes over, bringing dinner along - cutest ever! Thanks, Dad!” The clip and caption sparked warmth and support from followers, who were quick to wish her a swift recovery. The visit highlights Thaksin's close bond with his family, especially his daughter, who has taken on a prominent role in Thailand’s political sphere, reported Daily News. While Paetongtarn recovers, supporters are hoping for her prompt return to her duties, with her father's presence providing comfort during this brief setback. -- 2024-11-01

Police Capture Fugitive with Two Murder Warrants After 19 Years Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thailand’s Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) carried out “Operation Land Shark,” leading to the arrest of a fugitive wanted on two murder warrants dating back over 19 years. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342273-police-capture-fugitive-with-two-murder-warrants-after-19-years/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thailand’s Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) carried out “Operation Land Shark,” leading to the arrest of a fugitive wanted on two murder warrants dating back over 19 years. The operation, led by Highway Police under CIB’s direction, culminated in the apprehension of Prasert (surname withheld), who was wanted in Songkhla for serious crimes, including premeditated murder and illegal possession of firearms. The first warrant, issued on 21 November 2006 by Songkhla Provincial Court, charged Prasert with premeditated murder and illegal firearm possession. The second warrant, dated 11 June 2007, related to intentional murder and attempted murder. The investigation revealed that Prasert had evaded authorities by moving between various provinces. Aided by intelligence tracking, authorities narrowed his location to a rental room in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi. After verifying his presence, police secured a search warrant from Pattaya Provincial Court. They conducted surveillance around the premises and apprehended Prasert, who confirmed his identity and acknowledged the charges. Following his arrest, Prasert was transferred to Bang Klam Police Station in Songkhla for further legal proceedings, reported Siam Rath. Prasert confessed to all charges during initial questioning. For more information, contact Police Capt. Phikanes Treamkoetsap at 09 5252 5868. -- 2024-11-01

Thai Police Arrest Korean Man for Taxi Theft in Bang Sue Picture courtesy: Siam Rath At around noon on 31 October, Deputy Superintendent Pol. Lt. Col. Woraphat Sukthai, along with Pol. Lt. Col. Wutidet Phorakha and Pol. Sub-Lt. Sonthaya Nakbangkeaw from Bang Sue Police Station, received an urgent alert to intercept a stolen taxi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342270-thai-police-arrest-korean-man-for-taxi-theft-in-bang-sue/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath At around noon on 31 October, Deputy Superintendent Pol. Lt. Col. Woraphat Sukthai, along with Pol. Lt. Col. Wutidet Phorakha and Pol. Sub-Lt. Sonthaya Nakbangkeaw from Bang Sue Police Station, received an urgent alert to intercept a stolen taxi. The vehicle, a blue Toyota Altis with registration number Thaworawut 9000, was reported stolen from a PTT petrol station on Kamphaeng Phet 2 Road in Chatuchak, Bangkok. The victim, the taxi driver, had been pursuing the stolen vehicle on a motorbike. The pursuit led the suspect to Rail Park, approximately one kilometre from the petrol station, where he lost control and crashed into a fence. Police quickly arrived on the scene and apprehended the suspect, identified as Mr. Kim Wang Gil, a 52-year-old South Korean national, who appeared intoxicated. The victim, 38-year-old Mr. Suthep, confirmed the suspect's identity. Mr. Suthep explained that he had briefly left his taxi engine running while purchasing items from a convenience store at the station, only to find Mr. Kim driving off with his vehicle. He immediately pursued the suspect on a motorbike until the crash. During questioning, Mr. Kim’s responses were incoherent, suggesting intoxication. A passport check revealed that he entered Thailand on 30 October and was scheduled to depart in January. Police found $602 in cash on him. Mr. Kim now faces charges of theft, trespassing, and property damage, and has been handed over to investigators to proceed with legal action, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-11-01

Six Thai Police Officers Arrested in 300 Million Baht Fake Warrant Scam On 31 October, Bangkok police detained seven individuals, including six officers from the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, linked to an elaborate ฿300 million extortion scheme involving a fake search warrant and passport forgery accusations. The suspects, led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Chanchai (41), are charged with extortion, misconduct, and abuse of power. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342269-six-thai-police-officers-arrested-in-300-million-baht-fake-warrant-scam/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 31 October, Bangkok police detained seven individuals, including six officers from the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, linked to an elaborate ฿300 million extortion scheme involving a fake search warrant and passport forgery accusations. The suspects, led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Chanchai (41), are charged with extortion, misconduct, and abuse of power. The investigation started after Sai, a Vanuatu national, and his wife, alongside a Chinese friend and their domestic helper, reported a group of men who posed as police officers and forced entry into their home in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan Province. The suspects, presenting a falsified warrant, accused Sai of involvement in a passport forgery linked to four detained Filipinos. They reportedly claimed one of the detainees had named him in the scheme. During the search, the suspects confiscated phones and a computer, warning Sai that hiring a foreign domestic worker without proper documentation could incur additional charges. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Exploiting his unfamiliarity with Thai law, they demanded ฿300 million or the equivalent in cryptocurrency to avoid prosecution. When Sai refused, they lowered the demand to ฿10 million. Ultimately, Sai transferred ฿5 million in cryptocurrency across two transactions to a digital wallet controlled by a translator accompanying the group, who relayed the suspects' demands. Following the extortion, Sai reported the incident, leading to an internal police investigation. On 28 October, several suspects were arrested, though two key accomplices remain at large, including the translator. A special committee, led by senior officers, is now examining the case, uncovering the involvement of 12 individuals in total. As the investigation continues, the authorities aim to bring all suspects to justice, including the remaining two at large. This high-profile case has drawn significant attention to law enforcement oversight in Thailand, with senior officials promising to enforce accountability and strengthen regulations to prevent similar abuses, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-11-01

Election Commission Reviews Allegation of Thaksin's Influence Over Pheu Thai Picture courtesy: Siam RAth On 31 October at the Centara Government Complex Hotel in Chaeng Watthana, Bangkok, Mr. Ittiporn Boonprakong, Chair of Thailand’s Election Commission (EC), provided an update on the complaint alleging former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s influence over the Pheu Thai Party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342268-election-commission-reviews-allegation-of-thaksins-influence-over-pheu-thai/

Picture courtesy: Siam RAth On 31 October at the Centara Government Complex Hotel in Chaeng Watthana, Bangkok, Mr. Ittiporn Boonprakong, Chair of Thailand’s Election Commission (EC), provided an update on the complaint alleging former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s influence over the Pheu Thai Party. The EC has received four similar complaints, which have been consolidated into one case file. After a preliminary review, the EC Secretary-General, acting as registrar, accepted the complaint, and it has been assigned to a committee for further examination. The investigation process is set to take approximately 30 days. However, if additional evidence or documentation is required, the committee may request an extension of up to another 30 days. Once all evidence and opinions are gathered, they will be submitted to the EC Secretary-General. If the findings suggest a legal violation warranting party dissolution, the Secretary-General will escalate the case to the Election Commission for final review. When asked about gathering statements from all parties involved, Mr. Ittiporn noted that the formal investigation process had commenced, and some complainants have already provided statements. According to the EC’s guidelines, both complainants and respondents must have the opportunity to review and respond to the evidence, allowing respondents to present any supporting documentation. “Given the seriousness of this matter, we aim to ensure fairness to all parties,” Mr. Ittiporn affirmed, indicating the EC's commitment to a just process, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-11-01

Thai Govt Cracks Down on Low-Quality Imports and Foreign Nominee Businesses Picture: Facebook NBT World The government has taken a significant step to tackle the pressing issues of low-quality imports and businesses potentially using foreign nominees. This follows the formation of the Committee on Foreign Product and Business Compliance, chaired by the Minister of Commerce, Pichai Naripthaphan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342263-thai-govt-cracks-down-on-low-quality-imports-and-foreign-nominee-businesses/

Picture: Facebook NBT World The government has taken a significant step to tackle the pressing issues of low-quality imports and businesses potentially using foreign nominees. This follows the formation of the Committee on Foreign Product and Business Compliance, chaired by the Minister of Commerce, Pichai Naripthaphan. This committee has been set up by Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra with a 30-day mandate to deliver actionable solutions to benefit Thai consumers and local SMEs. Comprised of 16 agencies, the committee has formed two crucial subcommittees. Deputy Minister of Commerce, Napintorn Srisangpang, leads these efforts. One subcommittee focuses on aiding Thai SMEs and collaborating with e-commerce platforms to curb the flow of inferior foreign products. The other is dedicated to overseeing foreign-nominated businesses, ensuring they adhere strictly to Thai regulations. A significant development arose from discussions with Chinese Ambassador Han Zhiqiang, signalling China's support in quality control measures. This cooperation will be further cemented during Minister Pichai’s China visit from November 4th-6th, where key trade matters such as cassava, cattle, and steel will be high on the agenda. Ongoing measures include the Department of Foreign Trade reporting that e-commerce giant TEMU plans to register formally in Thailand, aligning with national business standards. Additionally, authorities such as the Food and Drug Administration, the Customs Department, and the Thai Industrial Standards Institute are enhancing their scrutiny at entry points and across domestic markets. These measures are aimed at barring unlicensed goods, enforcing stringent labelling practices, and upholding health and safety standards for all imports. The move represents a robust governmental response to safeguard local industries and consumers, promising a strengthened economic landscape underpinned by rigorous compliance and quality assurance. -- 2024-11-01

Teenagers’ trouble brews: Duo ‘crashes’ party, sparks punch-up by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Two teenagers forcibly entered a home where four men were drinking and instigated a confrontation, resulting in a physical altercation. The incident, which took place yesterday, October 30, at 10.30pm, led to the police from Non Sung Police Station in Udon Thani being summoned to a village in the Non Sung sub-district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342258-teenagers’-trouble-brews-duo-‘crashes’-party-sparks-punch-up/

Two teenagers forcibly entered a home where four men were drinking and instigated a confrontation, resulting in a physical altercation. The incident, which took place yesterday, October 30, at 10.30pm, led to the police from Non Sung Police Station in Udon Thani being summoned to a village in the Non Sung sub-district. Upon arrival, the police found the two teenagers, identified as Weerayuth and Theerapol, subdued and injured, seated on the floor. Both were charged and taken into custody to face further legal proceedings. A local who was also injured in the ordeal recounted the events leading up to the incident. While he and his friends were enjoying drinks at home, two unfamiliar teenage individuals suddenly barged in, demanding to know, “Who has a problem?” One of the intruders proceeded to assault a friend of the resident with a beer bottle, catching everyone off guard as no prior conflict had existed between the groups. In the chaos, one of the residents retaliated by striking back with a chair. However, one of the intruders drew a gun from his waist, using it to threaten and slap one of the residents, all the while searching for a person named Ta. As the situation escalated, the intruders attempted to leave but continued to taunt the residents, claiming that the residents were “from a different generation.” Confused by the unexpected aggression, the residents noticed that the gun was unloaded and approached the intruders to question their motives. With communication breaking down, the four residents eventually overpowered and subdued the teenagers until police arrived, reported KhaoSod. Many are bewildered by the teenagers’ actions, given the absence of any known dispute between them and the residents. Udon Thani police are now investigating the incident further, aiming to understand the motivations behind the teenagers’ actions and ensure justice is served. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-01

Thai Man Arrested for Firing Gun in Pattaya Restaurant Dispute, Claims It Was a Blank Gun By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A Thai man was arrested after firing a gun during a dispute at a crowded local Moo Krata restaurant in Pattaya earlier this week. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342255-thai-man-arrested-for-firing-gun-in-pattaya-restaurant-dispute-claims-it-was-a-blank-gun/