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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. Jirayu Huangsap, spokesperson for the center, reported that multiple agencies are working to clear mud and debris from homes and businesses, with the Ministry of Labor employing 400 workers to assist in the cleanup across affected communities. Operations in key areas such as Ko Sai, Sai Lom Joy Market, Mai Lung Khon, and Mueang Daeng are expected to continue until October 13. Labor Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn visited Mae Sai recently to oversee the employment project, which supports recovery efforts and provides temporary income for workers. The Ministry of Labor is also conducting damage assessments for businesses and workers impacted by the flooding. Jirayu urged local administrative organizations to assist residents in applying for the 10,000 baht compensation offered to households for cleaning and debris removal. He stressed the need for a smooth application process and called on local authorities to guide residents through the necessary steps. Homeowners can submit their applications to local administrative offices, where officials will inspect the damage and document their findings. Meanwhile, the Marine Department has implemented safety measures for waterway traffic along the Chao Phraya and Pa Sak rivers to protect riverside residents. Vessel operators have been instructed to reduce speeds to prevent wake waves from damaging homes and to restrict the number of barges that can be towed. Navigation schedules have also been adjusted for vessels traveling along the Pa Sak River in Ayutthaya province, limiting upstream traffic to daylight hours and downstream travel to nighttime. by Krajangwit Johjit Source: NNT -- 2024-10-14

Teenage Husband Attacks Dorm in Dramatic Search for Wife Picture courtesy: Khaosod A 19-year-old man, Mr. Chok (name changed), stormed a dormitory in Pathum Thani late at night, searching for his 17-year-old estranged wife, Ms. A (name changed). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340624-teenage-husband-attacks-dorm-in-dramatic-search-for-wife/

A 19-year-old man, Mr. Chok (name changed), stormed a dormitory in Pathum Thani late at night, searching for his 17-year-old estranged wife, Ms. A (name changed). Things quickly spiralled into chaos when he discovered her with another man, Mr. Waet (name changed), aged 20. In the ensuing scuffle, he seized a knife and injured both the man and his wife. The incident occurred around 1:00 am on October 13, 2567, in the Dechcharoen community, Ku Kot district, prompting police and emergency volunteers to the scene. Mr. Chok sustained significant knife wounds to his arms and was rushed to hospital by emergency responders. Meanwhile, Mr. Waet and Ms. A suffered facial injuries and were treated on-site. Ms. A revealed she had separated from Mr. Chok 5-6 months ago, leaving behind their toddler. Despite this, Mr. Chok tracked her down at the dorm earlier that day, witnessing her with another partner. According to Ms. A, Mr. Chok punched her in the right eye and attacked Mr. Waet. After leaving initially, Mr. Chok returned late at night, insisting she come home. In the resulting altercation, Mr. Chok managed to grab a knife from Mr. Waet’s friend and pursued the group, who eventually fled. Mr. Chok claimed he came to persuade Ms. A to return home, as she had left their 2-year-old daughter with him. He alleged he was threatened with knives and a homemade gun by the other men, which led him to retaliate. Police collected the weapons at the scene for evidence and have taken all individuals involved for further questioning. Mr. Chok remains in custody due to the possession of the homemade firearm as investigations continue, reported Khaosod. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-10-14

Family Terrorised by Late-Night Machete-Wielding Intruder Picture courtesy: Thai Rath A mother and daughter in Udon Thani were left terrified after a neighbour, identified as 23-year-old Chanon Chiaocharn, reportedly broke into their home late at night wielding a machete. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340622-family-terrorised-by-late-night-machete-wielding-intruder/

A mother and daughter in Udon Thani were left terrified after a neighbour, identified as 23-year-old Chanon Chiaocharn, reportedly broke into their home late at night wielding a machete. The incident took place on 10 October around 8:30 pm and was captured on CCTV. Police have since detained Chanon on charges of trespassing and carrying a weapon without reasonable cause. Petchrat Noogeo, 52, a long-time resident of the Nong Taolek community, recounted her history with Chanon, who had previously lived nearby and had been known to her family for years. Chanon, she explained, had once been a monk at a local temple, but his behaviour became erratic, allegedly involving substance abuse and violent outbursts. Petchrat stated that Chanon had even harassed her on multiple occasions, culminating in his recent break-in. On the night of the incident, Petchrat’s daughter, Worapitcha Noogeo, 23, was at home watching TV when she heard noises at the door. She described seeing Chanon jump over the fence and enter the house. Worapitcha called out to her mother as Chanon walked into their kitchen, brandishing a machete and shouting threats. Fortunately, he left soon after without causing physical harm, though their property was damaged. Chanon’s mother, Kamchan Naiguad, 55, said she was unaware of her son's actions until later, noting that he had been drinking heavily that evening. She expressed regret over her son’s behaviour and stated she would not interfere with the legal process. Following his arrest, police confirmed that Chanon tested negative for drugs, though he still faces charges of trespassing at night and carrying a weapon. Authorities are continuing their investigation, reported Thai Rath. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-10-14

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/

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. The handout, aimed at boosting economic activity, is set to deliver 10,000 baht in digital money to eligible participants. However, the uncertainty surrounding its continuation has stirred mixed emotions among the public. The NIDA Poll surveyed 2,000 individuals across the nation from 7th to 9th October. The results indicated that 56.95% of respondents were eligible for the handout, with 23.95% ineligible, 17% having already received the funds, and 2.1% unsure of their eligibility status. When posed with the scenario of the government cancelling the second phase, a significant 41.58% of eligible respondents said they would be "very angry," while 34.38% expressed no anger at all. Conversely, if the handout were delivered as planned, with the full 10,000 baht issued in digital money, 60.54% indicated they would remain unperturbed. The survey also explored public sentiment regarding modified payment scenarios. Should the government issue a reduced amount, like 5,000 baht, public response was divided, with 40.30% not angry, whereas 24.47% would be very upset. A two-installment payment structure, however, drew less ire, with only 8.3% expressing strong discontent. Among those deemed ineligible, opinions also varied. Nearly 29.44% suggested expanding handout eligibility regardless of income or assets, while 25.47% opposed the handout altogether. Another 25.25% felt it should be reserved for vulnerable groups, like the disabled. This poll provides a snapshot of the deep divisions within Thai society regarding fiscal stimulus policies, highlighting the complex dynamics of public expectation and governmental responsibility, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-14

Phuket Tourism Worries Mount Over Climate Change Impact Picture courtesy: MGR online Phuket tourism operators are increasingly anxious about climate change's tangible consequences, affecting both Thailand and key tourist source markets through severe weather and flooding. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340490-phuket-tourism-worries-mount-over-climate-change-impact/

Phuket tourism operators are increasingly anxious about climate change's tangible consequences, affecting both Thailand and key tourist source markets through severe weather and flooding. Thaneth Tantipiriyakij, president of the Phuket Tourist Association, highlights that flooding has become an annual occurrence in several areas, including Kata, Karon, and Kamala. This year, landslides in Kata and Karon tragically resulted in foreign fatalities, while recent floods submerged roads in Kamala, causing inconvenience and traffic disruptions. Thaneth notes that despite anticipating 500 billion baht in tourism revenue, surpassing pre-pandemic levels, Phuket's infrastructure struggles to cope with increasing tourist numbers. He expresses disappointment over the central government’s lack of action on improving water management and urban infrastructure. Virintra Papakityotsaphat, president of the Tourism Council of Phuket, underscores the critical risk posed by climate-induced natural disasters. She advocates for enhanced governmental regulations, particularly against illegal constructions obstructing floodways. This would help prepare infrastructure to better withstand such events. On a broader scale, recent global weather incidents, such as Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, which recently hit Florida, illustrate the wider climate impact. These events disrupt travel plans, with airlines cancelling numerous flights, potentially deterring tourists from travelling to Thailand during peak seasons. However, Virintra remains optimistic about Phuket’s diverse tourist base, attracting visitors from Russia, Europe, India, and China. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, deputy governor for marketing in Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, and Africa at the Tourism Authority of Thailand, adds that while the US travel market might experience short-term effects, Thailand aims to welcome at least 1 million US visitors this year. Furthermore, the Tourism Authority is focusing on promoting Thailand as a sustainable, eco-friendly travel destination, reported Bangkok Post. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-10-12

Sri Lankan Man Arrested in Wichit for Illegally Constructing House By Goongnang Suksawat A Sri Lankan man was arrested in Wichit after he was found illegally building a house. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340486-sri-lankan-man-arrested-in-wichit-for-illegally-constructing-house/

A Sri Lankan man was arrested in Wichit after he was found illegally building a house. The Phuket Immigration told the Phuket Express that this week they arrested MR. K PIYARALALA, a Sri Lankan national, at an under-construction house near a beach in Ao Makham in Wichit. He was found building a house. He was taken to the Wichit Police Station to face the charge of working without legal permission. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS -- 2024-10-12

South Korean Doctor Arrested at Bangkok Clinic Amidst Raid Picture courtesy: Ministry of Public Health BANGKOK - A South Korean doctor practicing in Thailand was arrested by Thai authorities during a raid on a central Bangkok beauty clinic. The operation was led by Dr. Phanuwat Panket, head of the Department of Health Services, alongside representatives from the Medical Council of Thailand and local police. The raid caught the doctor in the act of treating a patient, reportedly through agency referrals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340482-south-korean-doctor-arrested-at-bangkok-clinic-amidst-raid/

BANGKOK - A South Korean doctor practicing in Thailand was arrested by Thai authorities during a raid on a central Bangkok beauty clinic. The operation was led by Dr. Phanuwat Panket, head of the Department of Health Services, alongside representatives from the Medical Council of Thailand and local police. The raid caught the doctor in the act of treating a patient, reportedly through agency referrals. The doctor faces charges under the Medical Profession Act B.E.2525 (1982) for practicing without proper registration and permission in Thailand, an offence with potential penalties of up to three years in prison and/or a fine of 30,000 baht. Dr. Topol Wattana from the Medical Council stated that they will be gathering evidence against the clinic for employing an unlicensed physician, with this offence carrying a penalty of up to two years imprisonment and/or a fine of 40,000 baht. The Council aims to submit this evidence to the Consumer Protection Police, prompting an interrogation of the doctor. Furthermore, the Immigration Police will be alerted to prevent the doctor's departure from Thailand. Should he evade detention, Interpol will be contacted to secure his capture. Dr. Akom Pradit Suwan, deputy chief of the Department of Health Services, emphasised the necessity for beauty clinics to comply with legal protocols when employing foreign doctors. Clinics must secure permission from the local health authority, and foreign doctors must pass exams to obtain a professional license to practice in Thailand. These developments highlight the stringent regulatory environment for medical practitioners in Thailand, especially those from abroad. This incident raises broader questions about regulatory compliance and the oversight of foreign professionals in the country's bustling beauty industry, reported Thai Newsroom, Ministry of Public Health. Picture courtesy: Ministry of Public Health -- 2024-10-12

Wissanu Rebuts Allegations of Assisting Thaksin's Hospital Stay Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Former Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam has denied accusations of facilitating Thaksin Shinawatra’s extended stay in the Police General Hospital instead of incarceration. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340479-wissanu-rebuts-allegations-of-assisting-thaksins-hospital-stay/

Former Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam has denied accusations of facilitating Thaksin Shinawatra’s extended stay in the Police General Hospital instead of incarceration. These claims emerged from Sonthi Limthongkul, a media mogul, suggesting Wissanu assisted in transferring Thaksin from the Corrections Hospital due to an alleged severe ailment. Thaksin, convicted on corruption charges, remained in the hospital until his parole, consequently not spending time in a prison cell. Sonthi's allegations imply preferential treatment was arranged, sparking public debate. Wissanu, who served under Prayut Chan-o-cha, firmly rejected these accusations. He described events leading to Thaksin's hospital transfer, recounting a late-night call from a Corrections Department official. "I was informed near midnight about Thaksin’s serious illness and his move to the Police General Hospital," Wissanu stated. "By then, the transfer was already completed." He explained that his immediate instruction was to monitor Thaksin's condition, expecting a brief hospitalisation. "I assumed his stay would be short since I had no detailed knowledge of his health status," Wissanu added. His tenure as deputy prime minister was notably brief following these events, and he asserts that any involvement on his part was minimal and reactive rather than proactive. This turn of events has stirred discussion about political influence and justice administration in Thailand. Wissanu insists his actions were confined to procedural adherence following Thaksin’s reported medical needs. The former PM's prolonged hospitalisation, under medical pretenses, aligns with varying views on privilege and penal reform. Wissanu's rebuttal seeks to clarify misconceptions, distilling his role to informational relay rather than strategic intervention. The situation underscores ongoing scrutiny of political dynamics intersecting with legal and healthcare protocols in Thailand, reported Thai PBS. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-10-12

Thai High-Risk Groups Urged to Get Covid-19 Boosters Picture courtesy: Freepik Medical experts in Thailand are advising high-risk groups to receive boosters for Covid-19, given a recent surge in cases and fatalities. This push comes in light of new data revealing approximately 700,000 infections and 205 Covid-related deaths in 2023, positioning Thailand as having the highest infection and death rates for Covid-19 in Southeast Asia. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340477-thai-high-risk-groups-urged-to-get-covid-19-boosters/

Medical experts in Thailand are advising high-risk groups to receive boosters for Covid-19, given a recent surge in cases and fatalities. This push comes in light of new data revealing approximately 700,000 infections and 205 Covid-related deaths in 2023, positioning Thailand as having the highest infection and death rates for Covid-19 in Southeast Asia. Assoc Prof Dr Piroon Mootsikapun, President of the Infectious Diseases Association of Thailand, highlighted that the current wave of Covid-19 is hitting the nation harder than any other country in the region. Most concerning are the fatalities in the so-called 608 high-risk group, which includes those aged 60 and older, individuals with chronic health conditions, and pregnant women. Dr Piroon emphasised the severity of Covid-19 compared to influenza, pointing out that the infection rate and death toll are significantly higher. "Of the Covid-19 fatalities, 80-90% were in the 608 risk group," he noted. Prof Dr Sasisopin Kiertiburanakul, from the Royal College of Physicians of Thailand, echoed the call for vaccinations, stressing the importance of boosters in preventing severe illness. The current booster shots are reported to offer 60-70% effectiveness in reducing hospitalisations and deaths among the most vulnerable. Reports of Long Covid, which can affect other organs and significantly impact health post-recovery, were found in 15% of Covid-19 patients. Given this, the boosters gain added importance. Community advocates, like Tanapol Dokkaew from the Kidney Friends Association of Thailand, are urging the government to ensure a steady supply of vaccines, particularly for high-risk individuals. “Covid-19 is here to stay, so booster shots are crucial, especially for the 608 group,” he commented, urging continued vigilance amidst increasing complacency, reported Bangkok Post. Picture courtesy: Freepik -- 2024-10-12

RELATED TOPIC: Tik Shiro Car Crash Sparks Demand for Alcohol Test Inquiry https://aseannow.com/topic/1340455-tik-shiro-car-crash-sparks-demand-for-alcohol-test-inquiry/

Overdrawn: Bungling burglar caught cracking into bank in Phuket by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Thalang Police Police yesterday apprehended a man after he attempted to break into a bank branch and managed to forcibly open a passbook updating machine in Baan Lipon, Srisoonthorn, Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340475-overdrawn-bungling-burglar-caught-cracking-into-bank-in-phuket/

Police yesterday apprehended a man after he attempted to break into a bank branch and managed to forcibly open a passbook updating machine in Baan Lipon, Srisoonthorn, Phuket. An automatic security alarm alerted the police to the break-in at the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives in Baan Lipon, Moo 7, Srisoonthorn, at 11pm. Thalang police responded promptly, arriving to find the passbook updating machine at the front of the bank had been tampered with. Police also discovered evidence of an attempted break-in on the building’s side window lock and signs of cutting on the bathroom ventilation grille. CCTV footage captured clear images of the suspect, including the direction in which he fled. Shortly after, Thalang Police received a report from locals about a man behaving suspiciously in front of a house. Upon arrival, officers identified the individual as the same person seen on the bank’s CCTV footage, reported Phuket News. The suspect, identified as 19 year old Apirak Kongpan, was taken into custody and brought to Thalang Police Station for questioning. Police have confirmed that Apirak will face charges for his actions. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Thalang Police Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-12

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 12 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1340444-thailand-live-saturday-12-october-2024/

Thailand and China’s friendship to shine on 50th anniversary Photo courtesy of The Nation China is rolling out the red carpet for Thailand as both nations prepare to celebrate 50 years of diplomatic ties next year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340438-thailand-and-china’s-friendship-to-shine-on-50th-anniversary/

Porked & busted: Thai woman nabbed for telling ‘pork’ pies 208 times Photo via Channel 8 In a sizzling tale of deceit, Bangkok police arrested a cheeky con artist for cooking up a scheme that left a local butcher over 1.6 million baht out of pocket. Wannipa, a 27 year old Thai woman, was collared by officers from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) after she used fake receipts to bag free pork not once, not twice, but a staggering 208 times! Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340440-porked-busted-thai-woman-nabbed-for-telling-‘pork’-pies-208-times/

Tik Shiro Car Crash Sparks Demand for Alcohol Test Inquiry Picture courtesy: Siam Rath BANGKOK - Surasit Silapngam, Manager of the Don’t Drive Drunk Foundation, urged national police chief Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphat to initiate an investigation into the actions of Pol. Col. Narenthraeng Kluengsanook, chief of Khannayao Police Station. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340455-tik-shiro-car-crash-sparks-demand-for-alcohol-test-inquiry/

BANGKOK - Surasit Silapngam, Manager of the Don’t Drive Drunk Foundation, urged national police chief Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphat to initiate an investigation into the actions of Pol. Col. Narenthraeng Kluengsanook, chief of Khannayao Police Station. The call follows an incident where Narenthraeng declined to administer an alcohol test on Sirisak Nantasena, better known as singer Tik Shiro, after a crash that left two people dead and one injured. The accident took place in the Khannayao Police Station jurisdiction. Silapngam stated that he had formally requested the establishment of an investigative committee to review the police chief's decision, which he claims violated the National Police Office’s regulations on alcohol testing. These regulations, effective since October 7, 2022, mandate blood alcohol testing in accident cases involving fatalities or injuries. The foundation’s manager stressed the importance of adherence to these rules, warning that such negligence could set a dangerous precedent nationwide. He explained that any delay or failure to conduct alcohol tests could allow offenders to evade charges, as alcohol levels naturally decline over time. Silapngam dismissed common excuses like chest pain, which are often cited to avoid testing, as legally unfounded. He noted that even unconscious drivers could have their blood drawn for testing by hospital staff upon police request, without violating their rights. Silapngam also clarified that his request for an investigation is not motivated by personal animosity toward Narenthraeng. Instead, he hopes this case serves as a warning to police officers across the country. In fatal or injurious crashes, he said, alcohol testing must be conducted without exception. He further emphasized that suspects who refuse to cooperate with testing procedures should face charges under existing laws, which include up to two years in prison or fines ranging from 5,000 to 20,000 baht. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath RELATED TOPIC Famous Singer Tik Shiro Involved in Fatal Bangkok Car Accident, Two Dead Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Source: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340376-famous-singer-tik-shiro-involved-in-fatal-bangkok-car-accident-two-dead/ -- 2024-10-12