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Thai PM Faces Allegations of Media Freedom Breach Picture courtesy: Springnews Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has found herself under scrutiny following a petition filed by Ruangkrai Leekitwattana, a frequent petitioner, accusing her of breaching media freedoms. Mr Ruangkrai has claimed that her recent interactions with the press could result in her removal from office. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340713-thai-pm-faces-allegations-of-media-freedom-breach/

Picture courtesy: Springnews Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has found herself under scrutiny following a petition filed by Ruangkrai Leekitwattana, a frequent petitioner, accusing her of breaching media freedoms. Mr Ruangkrai has claimed that her recent interactions with the press could result in her removal from office. On Monday, Mr Ruangkrai submitted a formal request to the Election Commission (EC), urging an investigation into Ms Paetongtarn's response to a journalist during a press interaction. He argues that her remarks were not befitting a public officeholder, potentially breaching Section 184 of Thailand's Constitution. If verified, this could lead to the prime minister losing her position as dictated by Section 170. The controversy began during a media engagement at Government House. A particular interaction, featured on the ch3plus.com website, captured the prime minister's dissatisfaction with reporting related to the government's stance on constitutional amendments. This stemmed from a query about disagreements with coalition parties regarding proposed amendments perceived as a policy reversal. Ms Paetongtarn expressed her preference that such questions be avoided, reiterating that coalition consultations on key issues occur regularly. She also noted that current government priorities were focused on flood relief efforts, pushing amendments to a lower priority. The prime minister further suggested that cohesive governance was in the national interest, cautioning against questions that might incite division. Mr Ruangkrai, however, contends that her responses could be seen as infringing on the media's constitutional rights to report on governmental affairs. This is Mr Ruangkrai's second petition against Ms Paetongtarn, the first being an accusation of ethical misconduct related to appointing advisors with criminal records. The EC's findings will dictate whether the matter escalates to the Constitutional Court for a conclusive ruling, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-15

Thai Street Vendor Attacked by 20 Youths After Firework Warning Picture courtesy: Daily News A street vendor selling grilled squid by the Mun River in Ubon Ratchathani was brutally attacked after warning a group of youths not to light fireworks near his vehicle due to safety concerns. The group retaliated by returning with nearly 20 friends, violently assaulting him and two others. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340708-thai-street-vendor-attacked-by-20-youths-after-firework-warning/

A street vendor selling grilled squid by the Mun River in Ubon Ratchathani was brutally attacked after warning a group of youths not to light fireworks near his vehicle due to safety concerns. The group retaliated by returning with nearly 20 friends, violently assaulting him and two others. The incident was recorded on a mobile phone by a bystander, who then shared it on the Facebook page "Roi Rueng Mueang Roi Dan Ubon Ratchathani." The video shows a large group of youths attacking and wielding knives, resulting in three people being injured. On October 14, Police Lieutenant Colonel Nikul Nusil of the Ubon Ratchathani City Police Station received a report from the victims, Mr. Nuntachai, Mr. Wayupak, and Mr. Sitthikon, all aged 30. They reported being assaulted by the group on a riverside walkway in Nai Mueang, Ubon Ratchathani. The victims also provided the mobile phone footage as evidence. Mr. Nuntachai, one of the injured and the squid vendor, recounted the incident, stating it occurred around 1:30 a.m. on October 14. He and his friends were eating by the river when a group of local youths began setting off fireworks nearby, nearly hitting his car and motorbike. He asked them to stop, and they initially left. However, about 20 minutes later, the group returned in two pick-up trucks, with nearly 20 youths, who then attacked him, punching and slashing him with knives on his arms and back. His two friends were also injured in the attack. Police have identified the suspects and will issue warrants for their arrest on charges of attempted murder and assault, reported Daily News. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-10-15

German Tourist Arrested for Drug Use and Overstaying in Thailand Picture courtesy: Matichon online Police in Patong, led by Police Colonel Chalermchai Hoernsawat and Deputy Police Superintendent Police Lieutenant Colonel Narubodin Phangleesen, arrested a 29-year-old German man at a hotel on Prachanukhro Road in Patong, Kathu District, Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340704-german-tourist-arrested-for-drug-use-and-overstaying-in-thailand/

Police in Patong, led by Police Colonel Chalermchai Hoernsawat and Deputy Police Superintendent Police Lieutenant Colonel Narubodin Phangleesen, arrested a 29-year-old German man at a hotel on Prachanukhro Road in Patong, Kathu District, Phuket. The arrest was conducted by a special task force headed by Police Lieutenant Colonel Sinchai Sukhi, who, along with the Patong Police investigation unit, detained the suspect. The man was found to have overstayed his visa in Thailand and was in possession of drug paraphernalia. Following the arrest, authorities conducted a urine test on the suspect at Patong Hospital, which tested positive for methamphetamine, a Class 1 controlled substance in Thailand. Consequently, he was charged with the illegal use of methamphetamine and for violating immigration regulations by overstaying his permitted time in the country. The suspect and evidence were subsequently handed over to Patong Police Station’s investigators for further legal proceedings. Local authorities in Phuket are continuing to monitor and address issues of drug use and overstaying foreign tourists in an effort to maintain safety and compliance with Thai law, reported Matichon Online. Picture courtesy: Matichon online -- 2024-10-15

Phuket-In a distressing incident that has captured public attention, a 38-year-old mother identified only as Mrs. Mam from Wichit, Phuket, was arrested following a severe assault on her two-year-old daughter. The incident, which occurred on the evening of Saturday, October 12, 2024, has sparked outrage and concern over child safety and parental supervision. According to reports from the Wichit Police Chief Colonel Chatree Chookaew, Mrs. Mam admitted to striking one of her daughters, causing her to hit her head on the floor and lose consciousness. A neighbor, alarmed by the commotion, contacted emergency services. The toddler was rushed to a nearby hospital, where she received immediate medical attention. At the time of the incident, Mrs. Mam’s husband was not present at their residence. Following the incident, both parents were summoned to the Wichit Police Station. During the investigation, Mrs. Mam underwent a urine drug test, which returned positive, leading to additional charges related to illegal drug use. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS -- 2024-10-15

Buriram Police Arrest Woman for Posting Fake Rental Listings Picture courtesy: 77kaoded Police Colonel Jamras Siriliang from the Muang Buriram Police Station detained a 46-year-old woman, Ms. Sirikorn, from Nang Rong district, Buriram, for allegedly using photos of other people's houses to create fake rental ads. The ads targeted tourists visiting Buriram for the upcoming MotoGP event, scheduled for October 25-27. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340702-buriram-police-arrest-woman-for-posting-fake-rental-listings/

Police Colonel Jamras Siriliang from the Muang Buriram Police Station detained a 46-year-old woman, Ms. Sirikorn, from Nang Rong district, Buriram, for allegedly using photos of other people's houses to create fake rental ads. The ads targeted tourists visiting Buriram for the upcoming MotoGP event, scheduled for October 25-27. The investigation began after a 34-year-old woman, Ms. Nid (pseudonym), reported to the police that someone had impersonated her as the homeowner, posting her property for rent without her consent. The accused, Ms. Sirikorn, admitted to receiving a transfer of 18,600 baht from a customer. She claimed to have initially arranged to rent the house but was ultimately denied by the actual owner, who had rented it out to someone else. Ms. Nid explained that she had advertised her home on Facebook for rent. After receiving inquiries, she accepted a deposit and provided the property's location details. Later, she was alarmed when contacted by a would-be renter who mentioned an arrangement she hadn't made. Ms. Nid then filed a complaint with the police. Police Colonel Jamras Siriliang advised that tourists verify ownership details before making rental payments, as scams are common during major events. According to officials, Ms. Sirikorn had previously conducted a similar scam during last year’s MotoGP event in Buriram. Ms. Sirikorn now faces charges of fraud under Section 341 of the Criminal Code, which includes penalties of up to three years in prison or a fine of up to 60,000 baht, or both, reported 77kaoded. Picture courtesy: 77kaoded Provincial Police Commander Major General Rutthaphon Naowarat reaffirmed the commitment to safeguarding tourists and enforcing measures against fraudulent activities during the event. TOP Picture courtesy: 77kaoded -- 2024-10-15

Mother Arrested after Assaulting Two Year Old Daughter in Wichit By Goongnang Suksawat Phuket-In a distressing incident that has captured public attention, a 38-year-old mother identified only as Mrs. Mam from Wichit, Phuket, was arrested following a severe assault on her two-year-old daughter. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340701-mother-arrested-after-assaulting-two-year-old-daughter-in-wichit/

Sattahip Women Arrested for Playing Card Game Without Asking for Permission By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Sattahip — A group of Thai women was arrested in Sattahip for playing cards illegally after being misled by social media reports that they could gamble legally without needing permission. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340698-sattahip-women-arrested-for-playing-card-game-without-asking-for-permission/

Sattahip — A group of Thai women was arrested in Sattahip for playing cards illegally after being misled by social media reports that they could gamble legally without needing permission. On October 13th, Sattahip police received a tip from concerned citizens that a group of women were gambling by playing Pok Deng behind a local restaurant near the Bang Saray Night Market. Officers immediately responded to the report. Upon arrival, authorities arrested four Thai unidentified women and seized evidence including a deck of Pok Deng cards, 240 baht in cash, and a cloth used for the game. The suspects were taken into custody and transported to Sattahip Police Station for further legal proceedings. According to the police, the suspects had violated the Gambling Act of 1935 and were charged with “engaging in unauthorized gambling for financial gain.” By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-10-15

Tour Bus Carrying Malaysian Tourists Collides with 18-Wheeler in Sadao: 14 Injured A tour bus carrying Malaysian tourists collided with an 18-wheeler truck, resulting in 14 injuries. The crash took place near the Plant Quarantine Station in Samnak Kham, Sadao District, a few kilometres from the Sadao checkpoint. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340648-tour-bus-carrying-malaysian-tourists-collides-with-18-wheeler-in-sadao-14-injured/

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 15 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1340666-thailand-live-tuesday-15-october-2024/

British Woman Detained at Ladprao Mall for Alleged Theft of Branded Cream A British woman, 18, was apprehended by staff at a cosmetics store in a popular Ladprao mall for allegedly shoplifting a branded skincare cream. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340597-british-woman-detained-at-ladprao-mall-for-alleged-theft-of-branded-cream/

Poll: One-Third of Thais ‘Very Angry’ if Handout is Cancelled Picture courtesy: Thai Rath A survey conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) has revealed that more than a third of Thai citizens would feel "very angry" if the government were to cancel the second phase of its digital wallet stimulus scheme. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340621-poll-one-third-of-thais-‘very-angry’-if-handout-is-cancelled/

Thai Baht weakens as government pushes for lower rates The Thai baht has started to lose value this month, leading to speculation that its recent rally could be losing momentum. This comes as conflict increases between Thailand's government and its central bank. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340658-thai-baht-weakens-as-government-pushes-for-lower-rates/

The end of Buddhist Lent, Awk Phansa, will take place on Thursday, October 17th this year, and a nationwide sales ban on alcohol will be enforced for 24 hours. Nationwide Alcohol Sales Ban Set for October 17th as Thailand Marks End of Buddhist Lent By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340629-nationwide-alcohol-sales-ban-set-for-october-17th-as-thailand-marks-end-of-buddhist-lent/

Nationwide Alcohol Sales Ban Set for October 17th as Thailand Marks End of Buddhist Lent By Kittisak Phalaharn The end of Buddhist Lent, Awk Phansa, will take place on Thursday, October 17th this year, and a nationwide sales ban on alcohol will be enforced for 24 hours. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340629-nationwide-alcohol-sales-ban-set-for-october-17th-as-thailand-marks-end-of-buddhist-lent/

The end of Buddhist Lent, Awk Phansa, will take place on Thursday, October 17th this year, and a nationwide sales ban on alcohol will be enforced for 24 hours. Under the Alcohol Control Act, this ban applies to all establishments except duty-free shops in international airports. The official prohibition runs from midnight on Wednesday, October 16th, to midnight on Thursday, October 17th. Violating this law can result in a fine of up to 10,000 baht, imprisonment for up to six months, or both. The end of Buddhist Lent is one of the five major Buddhist holidays in Thailand, alongside Makha Bucha, Visakha Bucha, Asarnha Bucha, and Khao Pansa (the start of Buddhist Lent). While many foreigners may only associate this day with the temporary closure of bars and a 24-hour alcohol sales ban, it holds deep significance for the Buddhist community. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-10-14

Bangkok 'Pa Thong Ko' Stall Vandalised; Owner Denies Loan Involvement Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 13th October 2024, a fried dough (pa thong ko) near the entrance of Soi Suk Sawat 35, Rat Burana District, Bangkok, was vandalised by a helmet-wearing gang. The stall, owned by 68-year-old Pratuang Niamteth, suffered extensive damage in the early hours. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340627-bangkok-pa-thong-ko-stall-vandalised-owner-denies-loan-involvement/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 13th October 2024, a fried dough (pa thong ko) near the entrance of Soi Suk Sawat 35, Rat Burana District, Bangkok, was vandalised by a helmet-wearing gang. The stall, owned by 68-year-old Pratuang Niamteth, suffered extensive damage in the early hours. According to Pratuang, she was at home around 2 a.m. when she and her family heard a loud bang, followed by the sound of shattering glass. Upon investigation, they found a broken second-floor window and an unbroken soda bottle on the ground. As they prepared to report the incident, local police arrived, inquiring about the stall. Pratuang identified herself as the owner and discovered her stall had also been attacked. The glass cabinets were shattered, and cooking equipment was destroyed, with wooden planks strewn around. Pratuang, who has operated her stall at this location for 37 years, expressed disbelief, stating she had never had issues with anyone and had not taken any loans. She assured that neither she nor her family members had borrowed money. Concerned for her safety, Pratuang has filed a police report, urging authorities to quickly apprehend those responsible. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Nearby market owner, 70-year-old Niramon Chokthavorncharoen, recounted witnessing the incident. She heard a loud crash and saw two youths vandalising the stall. Niramon mentioned that Pratuang is well-known in the community and had never caused trouble, emphasising the neighbourhood’s fear and the need for prompt police action. Police Lieutenant Colonel Thanaprom Thanarphakorn from Rat Burana Police Station has instructed the investigative team to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice promptly. -- 2024-10-14

Fraudulent Gold Sales: E-commerce Couple Face Charges Picture: courtesy: Tnews A scandal disrupted the online shopping world last month when Kornkanok "Mae Tuck" Suwanbut and her husband, Kanpon "Pa Bia" Rueng-aram, allegedly sold fake gold jewellery via social media live streams. The couple claimed the items were "99.99% pure" gold, enticing unwitting customers into purchasing these supposedly premium products. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340626-fraudulent-gold-sales-e-commerce-couple-face-charges/

A scandal disrupted the online shopping world last month when Kornkanok "Mae Tuck" Suwanbut and her husband, Kanpon "Pa Bia" Rueng-aram, allegedly sold fake gold jewellery via social media live streams. The couple claimed the items were "99.99% pure" gold, enticing unwitting customers into purchasing these supposedly premium products. The controversy caught fire after numerous buyers reported their gold jewellery was consistently rejected by established gold shops, which cited the lack of proper hallmarking and suspected the absence of genuine gold content. More than 300 disgruntled customers filed complaints, accusing the couple of public fraud through deceptive advertising practices. Authorities, including the Consumer Protection Police Division led by Pol Maj Gen Witthaya Sriprasertpab, have taken a stern stance. Each fraudulent transaction could lead to a prison sentence of up to five years, stacking up to potentially immense jail terms depending on the case's findings. Witthaya underscores how the flourishing digital commerce landscape presents ripe opportunities for such scams, emphasising the need for consumers to stick to reputable platforms. As investigations continue, customers have demanded refunds, creating scenes outside the couple's Bangkok gold shop. The couple has offered refunds, contingent on buyers returning their purchases and accompanying gifts, and signing an agreement not to pursue legal action. Despite this, legal repercussions seem unavoidable. The pair faces multiple charges, including public fraud, providing false information, and misleading advertising. Authorities have already seized luxury vehicles from the couple’s assets as the case unfolds, seeking accountability and reinforcing vigilance against online fraud. The scandal serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of unchecked online commerce, urging both consumers and authorities to adopt stricter oversight measures, reported Bangkok Post. Picture: courtesy: Tnews -- 2024-10-14

Mae Sai Flood Recovery, River Safety Measures Enforced by Krajangwit Johjit CHIANG RAI (NNT) - The Flood, Storm, and Landslide Disaster Relief Operations Center has provided an update on recovery efforts in Mae Sai district, Chiang Rai province, where flash floods and mudslides have caused significant damage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340625-mae-sai-flood-recovery-river-safety-measures-enforced/