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to continue: Thailand Live Friday 4 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1339778-thailand-live-friday-4-october-2024/

Men with swords and bats storm Udon Thani children’s centre Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Two men wielding swords and baseball bats stormed a children’s development centre in Udon Thani, causing panic among teachers and children. CCTV footage captured the incident, which took place at 12.40pm yesterday, October 2, showing the men attacking each other. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339758-men-with-swords-and-bats-storm-udon-thani-children’s-centre/

Bus Owner Caught Trying to Hide Illegal Gas Cylinders After Deadly Fire Picture from responder Authorities have uncovered attempts by the company responsible for the bus fire that killed 23 students and teachers in Pathum Thani, to conceal illegal modifications to other buses in its fleet. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339780-bus-owner-caught-trying-to-hide-illegal-gas-cylinders-after-deadly-fire/

Composite image by ASEAN NOW Thai visa agencies offer hassle-free DTV applications Visa agencies in Thailand are stepping in to simplify the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) application process, helping applicants navigate the often complex bureaucracy of Thai embassies. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339777-thai-visa-agencies-offer-hassle-free-dtv-applications/

Picture from responder Authorities have uncovered attempts by the company responsible for the bus fire that killed 23 students and teachers in Pathum Thani, to conceal illegal modifications to other buses in its fleet. The Department of Land Transport (DLT) revealed that additional gas cylinders were being secretly removed from five of the company's buses just days after the fatal accident. The tragic fire occurred during a school field trip when an aging bus caught fire, resulting in the deaths of 20 students and three teachers from Uthai Thani. Investigators found that the bus had been improperly converted to run on gas, with far more cylinders than legally permitted. Only six of the 11 cylinders found onboard had been certified by authorities. Following the incident, the DLT ordered the inspection of five other buses in the company's fleet. When the buses failed to show up for inspection, officials tracked them via GPS to a garage in Nakhon Ratchasima, where workers were found removing illegally installed gas cylinders. Jirut Wisanjit, director-general of the DLT, said this clearly showed an intent to hide the illegal modifications. The bus involved in the fire had been in operation for over 50 years and had undergone several unauthorized modifications, which likely contributed to the accident. Police forensic teams confirmed that a gas leak occurred before the fire, though the exact cause of the blaze is still under investigation. Meanwhile, the company's license has been suspended pending further inquiries. -- 2024-10-04

Composite image by ASEAN NOW Visa agencies in Thailand are stepping in to simplify the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) application process, helping applicants navigate the often complex bureaucracy of Thai embassies. Since the DTV’s launch in July, it has attracted interest from digital nomads and expatriates, but inconsistent requirements at different embassies have created confusion. Key issues include conflicting rules about cash bonds, proof of remote work for international clients, and qualifications for 'soft-power' applicants. These inconsistencies have led to delays and rejections, prompting visa agencies to offer streamlined services to smooth the process. Many agencies now provide comprehensive packages that include visa runs to nearby countries, document preparation, and assistance with travel and accommodation. Heavily marketed on social media platforms like Facebook, these packages range from 75,000 to 150,000 baht (£1,700 to £3,400), depending on the level of support, writes Barry Kenyon for Pattaya Mail. Agencies also pre-screen applicants to ensure they meet DTV requirements, making the process more efficient. Initially, it was believed that applicants had to submit DTV applications from their home or employment country, but this has since changed. Applicants can now apply from any country, broadening opportunities for those in the service industry. Embassy processing times vary, with some, like the informal consulate in Taipei, offering same-day services, while others in Europe and the U.S. may take several weeks. The average processing time is about a week, with faster service available for higher fees. As long as regulations remain stable, Thailand's visa agencies are expected to continue thriving in this growing market, offering essential support to applicants navigating Thailand's complex immigration system. -- 2024-10-04

Paetongtarn Shinawatra Named in TIME100 Next Influential List Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrives for a group photo at the government house before taking oath in front of Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, Sept. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thailand's Prime Minister, has been celebrated in the latest TIME100 Next list. Recognising rising leaders and influential figures globally, the list highlights Paetongtarn's growing impact on the political landscape. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339721-paetongtarn-shinawatra-named-in-time100-next-influential-list/

Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra arrives for a group photo at the government house before taking oath in front of Thailand's King Maha Vajiralongkorn in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, Sept. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thailand's Prime Minister, has been celebrated in the latest TIME100 Next list. Recognising rising leaders and influential figures globally, the list highlights Paetongtarn's growing impact on the political landscape. As the youngest daughter of former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Paetongtarn has emerged as a vital voice within Thailand and beyond. Her political journey is deeply rooted in a family legacy that has significantly shaped Thailand's modern political climate. Paetongtarn is part of the Shinawatra family, known for their significant political and economic influence. Her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, was a dominant figure in Thai politics, elected Prime Minister in 2001 before being ousted in 2006. Despite the challenges faced by her family, including political upheavals and judicial interventions, Paetongtarn has forged her own path in politics. Earlier this year, Paetongtarn was thrust into the international spotlight when she became Thailand’s Prime Minister. Her leadership marked a significant milestone, as she stood as Asia's youngest-ever female leader. This appointment coincided with significant political tensions within Thailand, following the controversial dismissal of a Pheu Thai Party colleague by the Constitutional Court. Paetongtarn is tasked with the significant challenge of navigating a complex political environment, staying true to the call for economic reform and change she has championed. Her vision for Thailand includes implementing robust economic policies while seeking to mend relations within the nation's often fractious political sphere. In an interview with TIME, Paetongtarn boldly stated, “Thailand needs change,” reflecting her commitment to steering the country towards progressive transformation. Her inclusion in the TIME100 Next list underscores her potential and significance on the global stage, as she continues to inspire and lead in a rapidly evolving political era. -- 2024-10-03

Foreign couple loses 100,000 baht to Muay Thai trainer in Phuket by Petch Petpailin Photo via Top News A foreign couple exposed the fraudulent behaviour of a Muay Thai trainer and his Chinese wife in Phuket, who tricked them into a visa scam, resulting in a 100,000 baht loss. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339717-foreign-couple-loses-100000-baht-to-muay-thai-trainer-in-phuket/

A foreign couple exposed the fraudulent behaviour of a Muay Thai trainer and his Chinese wife in Phuket, who tricked them into a visa scam, resulting in a 100,000 baht loss. The 29 year old Czech victim, Vit Musilik, and his 26 year old Chinese wife, Xiao Feng Kang, urged officers from the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) to help them retrieve the 100,000 baht from the owner and trainer of a Muay Thai gym in Phuket. Musilik explained that his Chinese wife came across an advertisement for a Muay Thai training course in Phuket. The advertisement emphasised that the gym also offered visa renewal services to each trainee. Musilik stated that he and his wife were interested in the course because her visa was due to expire in seven months. Xiao contacted the gym through the owner’s wife, who is also a Chinese national. Following discussions, the couple visited the gym for a free trial lesson. Impressed with the training, they agreed to pay 8,000 baht per month for the course and 100,000 baht for a one-year visa. The gym owner’s wife also offered an additional three-month visa extension. Musilik said they handed over their passports to the gym owners for renewal, and the passports were returned a few days later. Although there were no new visa stamps, they did not suspect any fraud, as the gym was well-known and reputable. Many fall for scam Unfortunately, Musilik was arrested seven days later for overstaying his visa. The couple had to travel to Malaysia to obtain an emergency visa extension and, upon returning to Thailand, confronted the gym owners to request a refund. According to the couple, the gym owners refused to return the money and even threatened to call the police to have them arrested. They reported the issue to Wichit Police Station and the Tourist Police, but no progress was made on the case. Musilik revealed that the gym owner’s wife later offered them a five-year tourist visa for 200,000 baht but they refused, fearing another scam. Musilik also expressed concern for the safety of his wife, who is two months pregnant, as the gym owner is a powerful figure in the province. Xiao said she was particularly saddened by being scammed by a fellow Chinese national. Musilik claimed that many others had fallen victim to this Thai-Chinese couple, who had managed to evade arrest and charges due to their influence in the area. Police officers recorded the couple’s complaint and stated they would coordinate with Wichit Police Station for further legal proceedings. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Top News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-03

Cat’s out of the bag: Tomboy’s stolen car ride ends in Bangkok arrest (video) by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 3 Police swooped in yesterday to arrest a Thai tomboy struggling with mental health issues in a car park at an apartment in the Lat Phrao district of Bangkok after she stole a car, complete with a pet cat inside, from a shopping mall in the Ratchada area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339711-cat’s-out-of-the-bag-tomboy’s-stolen-car-ride-ends-in-bangkok-arrest-video/

Police swooped in yesterday to arrest a Thai tomboy struggling with mental health issues in a car park at an apartment in the Lat Phrao district of Bangkok after she stole a car, complete with a pet cat inside, from a shopping mall in the Ratchada area. Footage of security guards desperately trying to stop the black Honda HRV from speeding out of the car park has gone viral on Thai social media. In a dramatic twist, the car crashed into a traffic barrier but still managed to make a hasty getaway. One of the security guards told Channel 3 that he heard a woman scream for help at around 2pm yesterday, October 2. The woman shouted that her car was stolen. After seeing the black vehicle moving out of the parking area, he and other colleagues rushed to block the thief with traffic barriers but they were unsuccessful. The guard said the thief crashed into the barriers and fled the scene. The car’s broken front bumper was left behind. The car’s owner was more concerned about her cat, Morty, who was inside the stolen vehicle. The car theft was reported to officers at Huay Kwang Police Station, who checked security cameras along the road outside the mall to track down the thief. The suspect was later identified as 39 year old Thai woman Nattakan, who displayed masculine traits and was dressed in unfeminine clothing. After an eight-hour operation, police managed to arrest the tomboy thief in a car park at an apartment on Soi Nakniwas 16 in the Lat Phrao district. Morty was found frightened and hiding under the car seat. Nattakan was taken to the police station for questioning but she provided confusing information to investigating officers. Nattakan’s mother and older sister later arrived at the police station, claiming that she had a mental illness and had not received treatment. According to the family, Nattakan fled from her home in Thanyaburi district, Pathum Thani province, near Bangkok, three days before committing the crime. The police are unable to press charges against Nattakan pending a medical examination and the opinions of the medical team regarding her mental health. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 3 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-03

Save the Children Urges Action on Child Road Deaths in Thailand Picture courtesy: TNA-MCOT Alarming Statistics of Child Road Deaths in Thailand Save the Children Thailand has issued an urgent plea for action after revealing that one in three child deaths in Thailand are caused by road accidents. Over the past decade, more than 26,930 children have tragically died in road crashes, highlighting the severity of the problem. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339708-save-the-children-urges-action-on-child-road-deaths-in-thailand/

Alarming Statistics of Child Road Deaths in Thailand Save the Children Thailand has issued an urgent plea for action after revealing that one in three child deaths in Thailand are caused by road accidents. Over the past decade, more than 26,930 children have tragically died in road crashes, highlighting the severity of the problem. Road traffic accidents are now recognized as a leading cause of death for individuals aged 5 to 29 globally, with Thailand being a particularly affected nation. This data is supported by the Global Alliance – Cities 4 Children 2023 report, which emphasizes the need for immediate intervention to address this growing crisis Call for Stronger Safety Measures In response to these alarming statistics, Save the Children Thailand has called for a stronger and more coordinated effort to tackle child road deaths. Executive Director Guillaume Rachou stressed the importance of risk assessments for children's activities, especially those that involve travel, such as school commutes and field trips. He emphasized that accidents are not just unfortunate coincidences but are often preventable through proper planning and precautionary measures. “Each activity involving children must include thorough risk checks," Mr. Rachou stated, advocating for a proactive approach to safety. Physical Measures and Emergency Preparedness Mr. Rachou also highlighted the need for concrete physical measures beyond mere safety guidelines. These include ensuring that drivers are properly qualified, vehicles are equipped with essential safety features, and that emergency response drills are conducted regularly. Such precautions, he argued, would significantly reduce the risks faced by children on the road FILE photo courtesy: Thai Rath In addition, he called for a culture of safety awareness to be instilled in schools. By teaching children their rights and protective practices, schools can foster an environment where both physical and mental safety are prioritized. This education would not only prevent road accidents but also equip children with the knowledge to avoid various other hazards. The Safe Systems Approach Central to Save the Children’s strategy is the adoption of the "Safe Systems Approach." This framework focuses on implementing high standards for vehicle safety, improving driver skills, and continuously monitoring road conditions. The Safe Systems Approach has been proven effective in reducing child road injuries, with certain developing countries seeing a 47% decrease in child-related traffic incidents after its implementation. The charity is urging Thailand to adopt this approach on a national scale to safeguard children from preventable road accidents. A Call for Collective Action Mr. Rachou emphasized that solving this issue requires collaboration from all sectors of society. “The government, parents, schools, and agencies must unite,” he said. “Only through collective effort can we ensure that child casualties on the road become a thing of the past.” Save the Children is advocating for immediate and sustained action, urging both public and private sectors to take responsibility for creating a safer environment for Thailand's youth. The organization aims to see improvements in road safety policies, better enforcement of regulations, and increased awareness campaigns that will save lives and prevent further tragedy. Conclusion The rising number of child road deaths in Thailand is a pressing issue that demands urgent attention. Save the Children's call to action serves as a crucial reminder that the safety of children on the road is a collective responsibility. By implementing comprehensive safety measures and fostering a culture of awareness, Thailand can drastically reduce child casualties and create a safer future for its young population, reported TNA-MCOT. Picture courtesy: TNA-MCOT -- 2024-10-03

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 3 October 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339703-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-3-october-2024/

NEWS - 03-October.mp4 Police escorted five separate convoys carrying the 23 bodies of students and teachers who died in the bus fire incident to a temple in their home town of Uthai Thani. They arrived late last night where the monks performed a ceremony at around midnight. "Their Majesties the King and Queen have granted royal sponsorship for the funeral rites of the victims." The Ministry of Transport is stepping up safety proceedures for public transport to improve passenger safety following the tragic bus fire. The Prime Minister has reassured the public that Bangkok will not face flooding, as the current volume of rainfall is significantly lower than in 2011, when it was over 25% above normal. This year, the amount of rain is only 2% higher than the average." The government rejected a proposed bill by the opposition to liberalize the liquor industry, which would have allowed private alcohol distillation without permission. Instead, the house approved a stricter bill requiring people to seek government approval for distillation equipment. Across the region Taiwan effectively shut down yesterday, grounding hundreds of flights, closing schools, offices and financial markets as Typhoon Krathon made landfall with one person reported dead and torrential rain lashing the island's south. Residents in the southern city of Kaohsiung were told to stay at home. Japan A regional airport in the southwest was closed after an american bombshell, likely dropped during World War Two exploded near its runway. nearly 90 flights were cancelled. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Torrential Rain 26C degrees celsius Bangkok: Thunderstorms 32C Pattaya: cloudy Thundershowers 30C Phuket and the south: Thundershowers 29C Hua Hin: Bright, cloudy with rain likely this afternoon 30C Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-10-03 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5

Immigration Police Arrest 5 Leaders of Major Human Trafficking Rings Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thailand's Immigration Bureau has launched an aggressive operation to crack down on human smuggling networks linked to call center scams. Recently, they have arrested the ringleaders of five major criminal networks. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339701-immigration-police-arrest-5-leaders-of-major-human-trafficking-rings/

Thailand's Immigration Bureau has launched an aggressive operation to crack down on human smuggling networks linked to call center scams. Recently, they have arrested the ringleaders of five major criminal networks. Following government policy to tackle crimes, including online scams and cross-border offenses, the Immigration Bureau has been working hard to apprehend foreigners conducting illegal business in Thailand. They are also targeting locals and foreigners involved in activities that threaten public safety and tarnish the country's image. Authorities in China have been coordinating with Myanmar and Laos to suppress call center scams and online fraud originating in regions like Kokang and the Golden Triangle in Laos. As a result, Chinese scam operations have shifted and used Thailand as a transit point to cross into other countries. From October 1st, 2023, to September 30th, 2024, the crackdown resulted in 78 cases, 89 arrests, and the seizure of 69 vehicles. They have caught 287 illegal Chinese migrants and identified 20 additional individuals involved in these crimes through further investigation. The investigation highlighted that these crimes operate like a cross-border criminal organization, leading to charges of participating in such an organization against some of the arrested. This involves asset seizures under anti-money laundering laws, uncovering transactions exceeding 600 million baht in various bank accounts. The operation focuses on five major networks with established structures, clearly assigning areas and roles across Thailand. The crackdown from September 21st to 30th, 2023, successfully arrested all major figures sought in this round, including: 1. Veerapol Network - operating along the Chiang Saen border, organizing transport and border crossing for illegal immigrants. 2. Kan Network - facilitating crossings near Phop Phra and Mae Sot while also gathering firearms. 3. Vongsakorn Network- coordinating crossings between Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar and linked to several international brokers. 4. Toggihong Network - connecting Thailand to Malaysia's border and liaising with Cambodian contacts. 5. T. Network - managing cross-border movements in the Ubon Ratchathani and Sa Kaeo regions. This operation has significantly disrupted illegal entry networks, especially those moving Chinese nationals tied to call center scams. The Immigration Bureau continues its efforts to combat these crimes, ensuring Thailand is not used as a base for illegal activities, reported Siam Rath. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-10-03

Vehicle Inspector Reassigned Amid Deadly School Bus Fire Probe Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On October 2, 2024, Jirut Wisaljitr, Director-General of the Department of Land Transport, announced an investigation following a tragic school bus fire. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339700-vehicle-inspector-removed-amid-deadly-school-bus-fire-probe/

On October 2, 2024, Jirut Wisaljitr, Director-General of the Department of Land Transport, announced an investigation following a tragic school bus fire. The bus, carrying students from Wat Khao Phrayasangkaram School in Uthai Thani for a field trip, caught fire near the Anusorn Monument interchange in Pathum Thani, resulting in multiple injuries and fatalities. Suriya Juangroongruangkit, Minister of Transport, and Surapong Piyachote, Deputy Minister of Transport, ordered an immediate investigation to ensure stricter safety measures and prevent similar incidents. In response, the Department of Land Transport has established a fact-finding committee. Two senior officials from the Sing Buri Provincial Transport Office, including the head of vehicle inspection, were reassigned to assist in the investigation. If any wrongdoing is discovered, the Department has pledged to enforce the highest level of disciplinary action. This swift response aims to uphold safety standards and prevent future accidents. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-10-03

Foul-Smelling Trail of Feces Found in Thai Parliament Picture courtesy: Thai Rath On October 2, 2024, an alarming incident occurred inside Thailand's Parliament building, leaving many shocked and disgusted. A long trail of feces was discovered in the first-floor hallway of the MPs' wing, stretching from the elevator near the souvenir shop to the restroom entrance by the cafeteria. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339696-foul-smelling-trail-of-feces-found-in-thai-parliament/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath On October 2, 2024, an alarming incident occurred inside Thailand's Parliament building, leaving many shocked and disgusted. A long trail of feces was discovered in the first-floor hallway of the MPs' wing, stretching from the elevator near the souvenir shop to the restroom entrance by the cafeteria. The mess created an unsightly scene and emitted a foul odor that spread throughout the area, affecting everyone nearby. The situation was first noticed in the early morning, as reporters and staff arrived at the building. Housekeeping staff were quickly called to the scene, where they were seen sweating profusely as they worked to clean up the offensive trail. Despite their efforts, the strong odor lingered, leaving many to wonder about the source of the mess. It remains unclear who is responsible for the incident, as no witnesses have come forward with information. The bizarre occurrence has raised concerns about security and sanitation within the Parliament complex, with many calling for a thorough investigation. This unexpected and unpleasant event has certainly left a lasting impression on all who were present that day, reported Thai Rath. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-10-03

Thai Airways Announces New Share Issuance of 42 Billion Baht FILE photo courtesy: Wikimedia Thai Airways International Plc (THAI) is gearing up to issue new shares worth at least 42 billion baht by December as a crucial step towards finalising its debt restructuring under court supervision and resuming its listing on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339689-thai-airways-announces-new-share-issuance-of-42-billion-baht/

Thai Airways International Plc (THAI) is gearing up to issue new shares worth at least 42 billion baht by December as a crucial step towards finalising its debt restructuring under court supervision and resuming its listing on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET). The airline will release 6.81 billion new shares to creditors as part of a debt-to-equity swap, according to a filing submitted to both the SET and the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 1. Each share is priced at 2.5452 baht, totalling 17.3 billion baht. Additionally, 9.82 billion new shares will be offered to current shareholders, employees, and select investors through a private placement. Though the filing co-omitted the specific pricing, it confirmed that the cost would not fall below 2.5452 baht per share. The issuance aims for completion by year-end. Further, 14.9 billion new shares are reserved for a compulsory debt-to-equity exchange with major creditors including the Ministry of Finance, which will convert about 12.8 billion baht of its debt into equity, alongside other creditors. THAI's objective is to exit the court-monitored restructuring by 2025, five years after entering bankruptcy protection following sustained losses since 2013, worsened by the Covid-19 pandemic. Recent improved earnings and cash flow, driven by a travel boom, have allowed THAI to order new Boeing and Airbus jets. The airline plans to expand its fleet to 116 aircraft by 2027, exceeding its pre-pandemic size. Chai Eamsiri, the airline's CEO, announced that 79 jets should be operational by late 2024, reported Bangkok Post. Piyasvasti Amranand, chairing the rehabilitation oversight committee, stated, "The debt-to-equity swap and new share issuance will aid in stabilising Thai Airways’ financial standing." Aiming for shareholders' equity stability, the company plans to resume trading by 2025 following financial recovery. FILE photo courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-10-03

Thailand Embarks on Mega 2.68 Trillion Baht Transport Overhaul FILE photo: National News Bureau of Thailand Thailand's Ministry of Transport has unveiled an ambitious 2.68 trillion baht initiative aimed at radically transforming the nation's transportation landscape. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339686-thailand-embarks-on-mega-268-trillion-baht-transport-overhaul/