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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/

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. The shooting happened around 4:06 AM on October 30th outside the Moo Krata Baek Kap Din Sam restaurant on Petchtrakul Road. The suspect was seen shooting at a group of men before quickly escaping the scene in a black van. Initially, there were reports of an injured person, but this was later found to be incorrect. After gathering evidence, Pattaya police quickly identified the suspect and called him in for questioning. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-11-01

School scandal: Education official in hot water for midday snooze Photo via Facebook/ ร้ายกาจ The Office of the Basic Education Commission is investigating an educational official in the southern province of Prachuap Khiri Khan who was allegedly sleeping at work and finishing her duties early after lunch. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342235-school-scandal-education-official-in-hot-water-for-midday-snooze/

Good Samaritans stop Pattaya transwoman stealing from German Photo via Facebook/ วันนี้ วันพระ Two Thai Good Samaritans helped a German man catch a transwoman who attempted to steal the foreigner‘s wallet near Soi 10 in Pattaya this morning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342222-good-samaritans-stop-pattaya-transwoman-stealing-from-german/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 1 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1342234-thailand-live-friday-1-november-2024/

British Man Found Shirtless and Agitated on Pattaya Roadside Emergency responders in Pattaya were called to assist a foreign man reportedly injured and acting erratically on a roadside near Nong Yai, Nong Prue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342213-british-man-found-shirtless-and-agitated-on-pattaya-roadside/

Phuket’s courtroom prescription: Legal drama escalates in Swiss assault dismissal by Bob Scott Picture of Urs Fehr (right) courtesy of Bangkok Post A gripping legal battle is heating up in Phuket as the lawyer representing a woman doctor challenges the court’s shocking decision to dismiss her assault case against a Swiss man. Dr Thandao Chandam claims she was kicked in the back by 45 year old Urs Fehr, also known as David, while she sat outside his villa on Yamu Beach in Thalang district on February 24. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342200-phuket’s-courtroom-prescription-legal-drama-escalates-in-swiss-assault-dismissal/

Picture of Urs Fehr (right) courtesy of Bangkok Post by Bob Scott A gripping legal battle is heating up in Phuket as the lawyer representing a woman doctor challenges the court’s shocking decision to dismiss her assault case against a Swiss man. Dr Thandao Chandam claims she was kicked in the back by 45 year old Urs Fehr, also known as David, while she sat outside his villa on Yamu Beach in Thalang district on February 24. The court threw out the case on September 3, citing insufficient evidence against Fehr. But Dr Thandao’s legal eagle, Niphit Intharasombat, isn’t backing down. He’s filing an appeal to the Supreme Court, insisting that the testimonies of Dr Thandao and her colleague, who witnessed the incident, are far more credible than Fehr’s version of events. Fehr reportedly lost his cool over what he believed was trespassing. The situation escalated after Dr Thandao’s companion apologised and tried to leave, accepting Fehr’s claims of ownership. Niphit alleges that when they returned to the scene, Fehr attempted a second attack on the 27 year old woman, visibly enraged and further inflamed by the presence of his wife, said Niphit. “Two police officers arrived and separated the parties involved. They held mediation for over three hours, focusing on the issues of trespass and assault.” Niphit emphasised that forensic examinations confirmed Dr Thandao’s injuries. “The doctor and her colleague wouldn’t have alerted the security guard if she hadn’t been attacked.” The appeal lodged with the Phuket Kwaeng Court seeks the Supreme Court’s intervention to reopen the case and reassess the evidence. Dr Thandao’s legal team is optimistic that the appeal will lead to a fresh evaluation of the alleged assault, determined to ensure that justice is served, reported Phuket news. Original story: Swiss man acquitted in Phuket court for kicking woman doctor A Swiss man charged with kicking a woman doctor on the steps leading down to a beach outside his villa in February was acquitted by Phuket Kwaeng Court yesterday. The court extended the benefit of the doubt to the 45 year old Swiss expat Urs Fehr, also known as David. Details of the court’s ruling remain undisclosed. David faced accusations of kicking 26 year old Dr Thandao Chandam in the back while she and a friend watched the full moon on steps at Yamu beach, adjacent to his rented villa in Thalang district on February 24. Following the incident, the Swiss and his Thai wife apologised, claiming they thought the doctor was trespassing on their property. They explained that David slipped on the steps and accidentally struck Dr Thandao. Subsequent investigations revealed that the steps to the beach were not part of the rented villa and were illegally constructed. Local officials later demolished the steps. The incident generated significant public outrage and was widely covered in social and mainstream media. Residents demanded David’s expulsion, leading immigration police to revoke his visa, citing him as a societal threat. The Swiss appealed the revocation. In addition to this incident, David was fined for a separate road rage altercation involving an ambulance driver. His foundation’s licence for elephant conservation was scrutinised, and officials revoked licences for a pistol and rifle registered to him and his foundation. The court yesterday declared David not guilty of the incident that incited public outcry. Kasem Chandam, Dr Thandao’s father, confirmed the court’s decision, stating that his daughter was upset by the ruling. He mentioned that her lawyers would request a full copy of the court’s judgement in the coming days. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-31

Airports of Thailand: 120m Passengers Boost Growth FILE photo Airports of Thailand (AoT) recently reported a significant rise in air traffic, marking nearly 120 million passengers during the last fiscal year ending 30 September. This figure represents a 19% increase compared to the prior year, showcasing a strong recovery for the aviation industry post-pandemic. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342199-airports-of-thailand-120m-passengers-boost-growth/

FILE photo Airports of Thailand (AoT) recently reported a significant rise in air traffic, marking nearly 120 million passengers during the last fiscal year ending 30 September. This figure represents a 19% increase compared to the prior year, showcasing a strong recovery for the aviation industry post-pandemic. AoT manages six major airports: Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Phuket, Mae Fah Luang in Chiang Rai, and Krabi. Of the total passengers recorded, 72.6 million were international travellers, a notable 34.8% increase, while domestic flyers marginally rose by 1%, amounting to 46.6 million. Flight movements at these hubs totalled 732,690, up 14.5% year-on-year. Notably, international flights surged by 29.3% to 416,190, whereas domestic services saw a slight decrease, showing a 0.73% drop. The AoT anticipates further growth, with expectations of 129.9 million passengers and over 800,000 flights in the current year. Kerati Kijmanawat, AoT president, shared that this growth is set to continue into the winter season, with 370,239 flights scheduled. This represents a 22.1% increase from last year's figures, driven largely by inbound flights from China, Malaysia, India, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Such expansions necessitate improved aviation services, a goal addressed by Mr Kijmanawat as the AoT aims for global recognition as a top-tier flight operator, reported Bangkok Post. On a related note, Aeronautical Radio of Thailand (Aerothai) highlighted adjustments to flight paths due to changing weather patterns. To ensure safety during the cool season months, planes approaching Bangkok's two main airports - Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang - might require revised routes over the city centre, an adjustment prompted by forecasted shifts in wind conditions. -- 2024-10-31