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Cobra Slithers into Pickup Truck Engine Compartment Picture: Daily News Inhabitants of the Na Khao sub-district in Chana district, Songkhla, gathered in excitement as a venomous cobra was found slithering into the engine compartment of a Toyota pickup truck. As the news spread, locals wasted no time in noting the vehicle's registration number to purchase lottery tickets before the draw later today. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340828-cobra-slithers-into-pickup-truck-engine-compartment/

Picture: Daily News Inhabitants of the Na Khao sub-district in Chana district, Songkhla, gathered in excitement as a venomous cobra was found slithering into the engine compartment of a Toyota pickup truck. As the news spread, locals wasted no time in noting the vehicle's registration number to purchase lottery tickets before the draw later today. On 16 October 2024, Mr Tavisak Boonsed, a member of the Southern Snake Rescue team, along with Mr Apichart Phromsong, and paramedics from local administrative organisations, were on duty in their assigned area when they received a call from 47-year-old Ms Walee Khongkaew, residing at 111, Moo 7, Na Khao, Chana, Songkhla. She reported a snake of an unknown species had entered the wheel arch of her brown Toyota pickup truck, registration number BY 2697, and requested assistance to capture it. Upon receiving the call, the team quickly gathered their snake-catching equipment and rushed to the scene to investigate. The presence of a cobra, notorious for its potency, heightened local anticipation, especially among those hoping to turn this unusual encounter into a stroke of luck in the lottery. Residents gathered to witness the snake rescue operation, eager to see the outcome. Many believed that the sighting of the snake could bring fortune, as they prepared to buy lottery tickets featuring the truck's registration number. The excitement in the air was palpable as locals hoped for a lucky turn of events, reported Daily News. Picture: Daily News -- 2024-10-16

Bangkok Balcony Collapse Leaves Man Severely Injured Picture via Thai Rath A 65-year-old man named Prasong Kraiwisuth suffered severe injuries when a balcony from a four-storey building collapsed onto him. This alarming incident occurred on Charansanitwong Road in the Bang Phlat district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340824-bangkok-balcony-collapse-leaves-man-severely-injured/

A 65-year-old man named Prasong Kraiwisuth suffered severe injuries when a balcony from a four-storey building collapsed onto him. This alarming incident occurred on Charansanitwong Road in the Bang Phlat district. The collapse took place while Prasong was walking along a footpath, and eye-witness Wae Nawae, a 36-year-old vendor selling fried chicken nearby, promptly called the authorities. Wae reported seeing the victim struck by falling wooden structures and tiles, causing him to lose consciousness with a serious head wound. Prasong was rushed to Siriraj Hospital, though his current condition remains unreported. The severity of the incident highlights existing structural issues, as Wae noted that tiles had previously fallen from the aging balcony, although not as severe. Fortunately, a metal awning on the first floor absorbed much of the impact before debris hit Prasong, otherwise the consequences might have been direr. The awning itself now bears damage from the debris. Authorities from the Bang Phlat Police Station, along with Ruam Katanyu Rescue, responded promptly to the incident. They plan to question Prasong upon his recovery and summon the building’s owner for further investigation. Officials from the Bang Phlat District Office intend to safely remove the remaining damaged structure to prevent future incidents. This unfortunate accident has raised concerns about building safety regulations and maintenance in the area. As the investigation unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring the integrity of urban structures to protect public safety. Local residents await updates on Prasong’s recovery and hope for prompt action to prevent such hazards from recurring. Picture via Thai Rath -- 2024-10-16

Thailand Eyes Big Concert Deals to Boost Tourism Appeal File photo for reference only Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra aims to secure an exclusive concert agreement with a globally renowned artist, enhancing Thailand’s appeal as a top destination for international tourists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340822-thailand-eyes-big-concert-deals-to-boost-tourism-appeal/

File photo for reference only Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra aims to secure an exclusive concert agreement with a globally renowned artist, enhancing Thailand’s appeal as a top destination for international tourists. This initiative forms part of the "Thailand Music Campaign," a new strategy led by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), according to Jirayu Huangsab, spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office. Earlier in the year, Singapore attracted global attention by landing a deal with pop star Taylor Swift for her Eras Tour, making Singapore her only Southeast Asian stop. Thailand’s similar campaign seeks to attract more global travellers through a series of exclusive cultural and music events. Under the campaign, Thailand aims to host a major concert by a world-class performer, available only in Thailand. "It will be an extraordinary event, showcasing Thailand as a unique cultural hub," said Mr Jirayu. The government plans to fund the concert using both the current 2025 fiscal budget and the 2026 budget. In preparation, the Prime Minister has directed the ministry to collaborate with the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) to identify suitable venues for the concert. Venues under consideration include large convention halls in Bangkok and other major cities across Thailand. Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong reported that from January 1 through last Sunday, Thailand welcomed 27.21 million international visitors, generating approximately 1.27 trillion baht in revenue. Chinese, Malaysian, Indian, South Korean, and Russian tourists made up the top five visitor groups. Additionally, the number of long-haul tourists from Europe and North America increased by 4.92% last week, indicating an upward trend with the start of the tourism season for these regions. Minister Sorawong anticipates that more European and North American travellers will arrive this week as the new season begins. The exclusive concert initiative underscores Thailand's commitment to diversifying its tourism appeal by offering unique entertainment experiences, with hopes of drawing in a broader international audience and boosting tourism revenue. reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-16

Suspension of TM6 Arrival Form Extended to Boost Tourism Picture courtesy: Police News In a bid to alleviate bottlenecks at immigration and stimulate tourism, the suspension of the TM6 form requirement for travellers entering Thailand has been extended until 30 April next year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340820-suspension-of-tm6-arrival-form-extended-to-boost-tourism/

In a bid to alleviate bottlenecks at immigration and stimulate tourism, the suspension of the TM6 form requirement for travellers entering Thailand has been extended until 30 April next year. This move comes as the authorities continue to develop the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, which is anticipated to streamline travel processes further and could incorporate tourism fee collection. The suspension initially began on 15 April and was set to end this week. However, the decision to prolong it was approved by the cabinet, aiming to enhance border crossing efficiency, reduce congestion, and bolster economic growth through increased tourist flow. The TM6 form suspension covers 16 key land and sea checkpoints, including Aranyaprathet in Sa Kaeo, Chiang Saen in Chiang Rai, and Padang Besar in Songkhla. Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is spearheading the development of the ETA system, which promises an online registration platform for tourists entering Thailand from 93 visa-exempt countries. Upon registration, tourists will receive a QR code, allowing them to pass through automated immigration gates seamlessly. Tourism and Sports Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, noted the potential benefits, stating that simplifying arrivals could boost daily Malaysian tourist entries to Songkhla by 50% compared to when the TM6 form was mandatory. Despite the positive outlook, tourism experts express concerns over the need for new attractions in the Deep South to maintain momentum. While current attractions entice visitors for short stays, long-term tourism development requires fresh, appealing destinations. Songchai Mungprasithichai, from Songkhla Tourism Promotion Association, emphasised efficient tourism fee collection. With at least 10,000 daily commuters via southern checkpoints, the focus remains on facilitating smooth travel while ensuring fees support new tourism ventures to enhance competitiveness and create jobs, reported Bangkok Post. Picture courtesy: Police News -- 2024-10-16

Authorities Deny Claims of Korean Drug Suspect's Pattaya Jail Livestream Picture courtesy: Daily News The Thai Department of Corrections has refuted reports that a South Korean drug trafficking suspect, aged 44, livestreamed footage from inside a Thai prison. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340818-authorities-deny-claims-of-korean-drug-suspects-pattaya-jail-livestream/

Picture courtesy: Daily News The Thai Department of Corrections has refuted reports that a South Korean drug trafficking suspect, aged 44, livestreamed footage from inside a Thai prison. The suspect, arrested on October 3 in Chonburi Province, reportedly claimed to have filmed the livestream while in custody at Pattaya Remand Prison. The Department of Corrections clarified, however, that the individual had never been held at the facility. The case emerged when the Maeil Business Newspaper reported that the suspect, wanted on drug-related charges in South Korea, had shared a livestream online that appeared to show him inside a Thai detention facility. However, after an internal investigation, the Thai authorities confirmed that no such detainment had occurred at Pattaya Remand Prison, and the cell shown in the video did not match any of their facilities. The suspect was arrested by the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) and the Thai Immigration Bureau at a hotel in Bang Lamung District, Chonburi. His arrest was part of a joint effort with South Korean authorities, including the Supreme Prosecutors’ Office (SPO) and the National Intelligence Service (NIS), who had been tracking the suspect’s movements. He is suspected of arranging drug shipments from Thailand to South Korea and was linked to a case in December 2023, when South Korean officials intercepted a package containing 38.46 grams of methamphetamine, or "ice," concealed in coffee and peanut bags. Further investigation revealed that the suspect had been living in Thailand illegally, having overstayed his visa. Thai authorities have since moved to cancel his visa and pursue deportation proceedings. The Department of Corrections quickly checked its records and found no evidence that the individual had ever been admitted to Pattaya Remand Prison. The department also noted that mobile phones, including the one used in the livestream, are prohibited in all Thai prisons. Any unauthorized possession or use of a phone by inmates or staff is considered a serious offense and carries disciplinary consequences, reported Daily News. The Department emphasized that the suspect's claim to have broadcasted from within a Thai prison was unfounded and appeared to be an attempt to sensationalize his detention. Thai authorities remain in close communication with South Korean officials as they work on repatriating the suspect and ensuring he faces justice in his home country. -- 2024-10-16

Disabled Woman Found Naked and Alone in Bathroom After Days Without Care Picture courtesy: Daily News A disabled woman was found naked and alone in a bathroom in Rayong, Thailand, after neighbours heard her crying for help. The 51-year-old, who has been disabled since birth and struggles with mental health issues, had been left without care since the recent death of her brother. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340816-disabled-woman-found-locked-in-bathroom-following-days-without-care/

A disabled woman was found naked and alone in a bathroom in Rayong, Thailand, after neighbours heard her crying for help. The 51-year-old, who has been disabled since birth and struggles with mental health issues, had been left without care since the recent death of her brother. Both her parents had passed away previously, leaving her with no immediate family support. On 15 October, local police in Klaeng, Rayong, received reports from residents who heard cries from a home in Thung Khwai Kin. Officers coordinated with Klaeng District officials, including District Chief Kantaphon Suksong and village chief Panya Phasuk, to investigate. Upon arrival, they found a crowd gathered outside the two-story house. Inside, they discovered the woman in a distressed state, lying naked in the bathroom. The woman was immediately provided with clothing and removed from the bathroom. Attempts to communicate with her were difficult as she was disoriented and appeared malnourished. Locals reported hearing her cries for several days but assumed she had someone caring for her. However, after hearing louder cries that morning, a neighbour sent someone to check on her, leading to the discovery. Further investigation revealed that after the woman’s parents passed away two years ago, extended family members had been left responsible for her care. It remains unclear why she was locked in the bathroom without food for nearly a week, reported Daily News. The local municipality has since coordinated with the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security to ensure her well-being. Although her relatives have offered to take her in, officials are yet to decide on her care arrangements to prevent further neglect. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-10-16

PM Paetongtarn Discusses Flooding in Thailand with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, right, meets with Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, left, during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Vientiane, Laos, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024. (Tang Chhin Sothy/Pool Photo via AP) The United States Department of State has released details of a conversation between US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, held during the ASEAN Summits in Vientiane, Laos. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340814-pm-paetongtarn-discusses-flooding-in-thailand-with-us-secretary-of-state-antony-blinken/

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, right, meets with Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, left, during the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Vientiane, Laos, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024. (Tang Chhin Sothy/Pool Photo via AP) The United States Department of State has released details of a conversation between US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, held during the ASEAN Summits in Vientiane, Laos. Representing US President Joe Biden, Blinken attended the summits and met with various leaders. The discussion with Prime Minister Paetongtarn took place before a formal meeting, as noted on the US Department of State’s website. Blinken expressed his pleasure at the opportunity to engage with the Thai delegation, highlighting the long-standing alliance between Thailand and the United States. “There’s a powerful shared history, a foundation of shared values, and a commitment, both bilaterally and through ASEAN, to better the lives of our people,” he said. Blinken noted that the partnership covers areas such as inclusive economic growth, joint security challenges, climate change, and the transition to clean energy. Prime Minister Paetongtarn affirmed Thailand’s positive relationship with the United States, stating, “We have a very long-term good relationship, and we can always discuss anything you wish to pursue. I believe we can move forward together on future projects.” She then mentioned the recent flooding in northern Thailand, describing it as the main issue the country is currently facing. “The north of Thailand is experiencing daily flooding, although it’s now beginning to recover,” she said. Blinken acknowledged the concern and assured that they would discuss the issue further, along with other topics of mutual interest. The leaders expressed optimism about continuing their collaborative efforts in addressing these challenges, reported Thai PBS. -- 2024-10-16

High Stakes in Tak Bai Case as Court Sets October 25 Deadline FILE photo In an intense development concerning the Tak Bai massacre, the Narathiwat Provincial Court has set a midnight deadline on 25th October for seven defendants involved in the case to appear and face trial. The court's decision comes as a significant juncture in a long-standing case that has left indelible marks on Thailand's history of handling civil unrest. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340811-court-sets-october-25th-midnight-deadline-for-tak-bai-defendants/

FILE photo The Narathiwat provincial court has given the seven defendants in the Tak Bai massacre case until midnight on 25th October to appear for trial. This decision was made by a panel of three judges overseeing the case. The defendants were absent from Wednesday’s scheduled hearing. The judges stated that, should none of the seven defendants appear voluntarily or be brought to court by the police by 25th October, the court will not immediately dismiss the case. Instead, it will wait the full 24 hours on that day to allow them a final opportunity to come forward. If the defendants fail to appear by midnight, the statute of limitations on the case will expire, and the charges will be automatically dismissed. The judges are then set to reconvene on 28th October to discuss the case further. During the hearing, the court allowed the prosecutor and victims’ relatives to make statements, though these will not be officially recorded due to the defendants’ absence. Muhamad So-aree Useng, a relative of one of the victims, expressed to the court that dropping the case due to the 20-year statute of limitations would cause the victims' families to lose faith in the Thai justice system. People’s Party MP Romadon Panjor thanked the 48 relatives of the massacre victims for their courage in pursuing the case. He expressed hope that the defendants would eventually appear to stand trial, warning that failure to do so would be a significant disservice to the public. The seven defendants include: - General Pisan Wattanawongkiri, former Fourth Army Region commander and ex-Pheu Thai MP - General Chalermchai Wirunpeth, former commander of the 5th Infantry Division - Pol Gen Wongkot Maneerin, former director of the Royal Thai Police’s Forward Command Centre - Pol Lt-Gen Manot Kraiwong, former commissioner of the 9th Region Provincial Police Bureau - Pol Maj-Gen Saksommai Putthakul, former Tak Bai district police superintendent - Siwa Sangmanee, former deputy interior permanent secretary general - Wichom Thongsong, former Narathiwat governor The Tak Bai incident took place on 25th October 2004 during a protest by around 1,500 Thai Muslims outside the Tak Bai district police station. They were demonstrating against the detention of six defence volunteers accused of providing shotguns to insurgents, reported Thai PBS. When protesters tried to enter the station, police responded with teargas and water cannons. Six protesters were killed after live ammunition was fired. Around 1,300 protesters were arrested, and 78 died from suffocation and organ failure after being stacked in trucks for a five-hour journey to a barracks in Pattani province. -- 2024-10-16

Wallet with 40,000 Baht Returned to Owner After Being Lost at Khao Kheow Open Zoo Near Pattaya By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A Thai woman visiting Khao Kheow Open Zoo near Pattaya was overjoyed after a Facebook post helped reunite her with a lost wallet containing over 40,000 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340808-wallet-with-40000-baht-returned-to-owner-after-being-lost-at-khao-kheow-open-zoo/

Pattaya — A Thai woman visiting Khao Kheow Open Zoo near Pattaya was overjoyed after a Facebook post helped reunite her with a lost wallet containing over 40,000 baht. On October 14th, the wallet owner, Ms. Phasuk Samroengsin, a 34-year-old factory worker from Rayong, shared with local reporters that she lost her wallet during a family trip to Khao Kheow Open Zoo on October 13th. She and her family were visiting, Moo Deng, the current superstar of the zoo, when she had taken out the wallet to buy a drink but accidentally left it behind. Ms. Phasuk stated that the wallet contained over 40,000 baht in cash and important documents. After searching around the zoo and unable to find it, she thought she would never get it back. Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-10-16 By Aim Tanakorn

Similan Islands Reopen, Draw 2,000 Tourists After Eco-Pause File photo for reference only The renowned Similan Islands in Thailand have reopened to tourists following a five-month closure aimed at reviving marine ecosystems. On October 15, nearly 2,000 eager visitors, both domestic and international, returned to the popular diving and snorkeling haven. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340787-similan-islands-reopen-draw-2000-tourists-after-eco-pause/

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 16 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1340800-thailand-live-wednesday-16-october-2024/

Pattaya Official Seeks Justice in Sea Urination Row Photo: The Thaiger In an unusual turn of events in Pattaya, Sawate Permpoon, the chief of Jomtien Pattaya Municipality Office, found himself embroiled in a confrontation with two Thai men who allegedly urinated in the sea. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340790-pattaya-official-seeks-justice-in-sea-urination-row/

Car Cuts Off Ambulance Twice While Transporting Patient from Khon Kaen to Chonburi A road rage incident involving a private ambulance and a reckless driver took place as a car dangerously cutting off an ambulance twice while it was transporting a patient from Khon Kaen to Chonburi for treatment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340731-car-cuts-off-ambulance-twice-while-transporting-patient-from-khon-kaen-to-chonburi/

Thai singer Tik Shiro charged with drink driving after fatal crash - video Photo via Thai Rath Police charged Thai singer Sirisak “Tik” Nantasane, also known as Tik Shiro, with drink driving after he crashed his van into a motorcycle, resulting in one fatality on October 10. Full story: https://aseannow.com/to

The Department of Land Transport (DLT) is cracking down on security, rolling out mandatory identity checks with the ThaID app from November 1 for anyone booking driving license and vehicle registration slots. That’s right, no more easy rides—it’s high-tech all the way via the DLT Smart Queue app and website! ID check-mate: DLT gears up for tight security drive with ThaID app Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340774-id-check-mate-dlt-gears-up-for-tight-security-drive-with-thaid-app/ Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

Dutch Tourist Hurls Objects at Udon Thani Café Staff Over Change Dispute Picture courtesy: Blitz On October 14, at 1:00 p.m., police from Udon Thani, led by Lt. Col. Prabda Suksontree, responded to an altercation involving a foreign tourist who allegedly threw items at café staff in a row over a 130-baht change discrepancy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340734-dutch-tourist-hurls-objects-at-udon-thani-café-staff-over-change-dispute/