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Picture: National Crime Agency // STV news In a remarkable breakthrough for law enforcement, a Scottish man hiding in Thailand for 40 years has been extradited and jailed for historical sexual crimes against children. John Martin, 74, originally from Haddington, East Lothian, was returned from Bangkok to face justice in Scotland after committing decades-old abuse. Martin, a former antiques dealer, was convicted of three counts of child sexual abuse on 25 October at Edinburgh Sheriff Court. His offences spanned across Perth and Kinross, Fife, and East Lothian, affecting two young victims between the 1980s and 1990s. The Edinburgh court sentenced Martin to three years and three months in prison. His name will be added permanently to the sex offenders register, and he is barred from any contact with his victims for 20 years. Lynne Barrie, procurator fiscal for Lothian and Borders, denounced him as a "sexual predator" who traumatised vulnerable girls, and praised the victims' courage for coming forward. Martin's capture and trial were the result of a coordinated effort involving Police Scotland, the National Crime Agency (NCA), the Royal Thai Police's Central Investigation Bureau, and Thailand's Office of the Attorney General. This complex international operation highlights the determination of these agencies to pursue justice for such grave crimes. Duncan Burrage, NCA Liaison Officer for Thailand, remarked on the agency's commitment to tracking down British child sex offenders worldwide. Sergeant Richard Robson of Police Scotland expressed solidarity with the victims and their families, acknowledging their bravery in reporting the crimes and ensuring that Martin faced consequences for his heinous acts. As justice is served, there remains a firm commitment from law enforcement to protect vulnerable individuals and hold offenders accountable, regardless of the time or distance involved in their capture, reported STV news. -- 2024-11-11

Scottish Man Extradited from Thailand Jailed sexually abusing young girls Picture: National Crime Agency - STV news In a remarkable breakthrough for law enforcement, a Scottish man hiding in Thailand for 40 years has been extradited and jailed for historical sexual crimes against children. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343140-scottish-man-extradited-from-thailand-jailed-for-sexually-abusing-young-girls/

Prawit's Hopes Dashed: Boonchai Wins Thailand Aquatics Election Prawit Wongsuwon. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath In a decisive and unexpected outcome, General Prawit Wongsuwon has suffered a significant setback, losing his bid to retain the presidency of the Thailand Aquatics Association (TAA) to Lieutenant General Boonchai Kasettrakarn. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343168-prawits-hopes-dashed-boonchai-wins-thailand-aquatics-election/

Prawit Wongsuwon. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath In a decisive and unexpected outcome, General Prawit Wongsuwon has suffered a significant setback, losing his bid to retain the presidency of the Thailand Aquatics Association (TAA) to Lieutenant General Boonchai Kasettrakarn. During the association's annual general meeting on Saturday, Boonchai secured a landslide victory, garnering 231 votes compared to Prawit's 22. Out of 277 member clubs, 271 were eligible to vote, with 18 abstaining. Prawit's loss comes just as his second four-year stint leading the TAA concluded on Thursday. The election outcome marks a pivotal change in the TAA's leadership and casts doubt over Prawit's role in the broader spectrum of Thai sports administration. The absence of both Prawit and Boonchai from the meeting didn't deter the clubs from endorsing them as candidates. However, Boonchai’s overwhelming win reflects a clear mandate for change within the TAA and poses a major setback for Prawit's influence in sports governance. This defeat also complicates Prawit's standing in the national Olympic committee (NOCT), where leadership elections are slated for March next year. The NOCT's rules require candidates to hold an elected position within a national sports organisation, impacting Prawit’s aspirations for continued leadership. Amidst this changing landscape, General Decha Hemkrasi of the Thai Cycling Association (TCA) and Pimol Srivikorn from the Taekwondo Association of Thailand are emerging as favourites for the NOCT chairman position. Despite the setback, Prawit still has a chance to regain eligibility by securing a role in another sports body before the elections, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-11

Indian Tourist Missing After Fall at Koh Samui Waterfall Despite Warnings An Indian tourist, aged 29, has gone missing after slipping and falling while taking photos at a popular waterfall in Koh Samui. The incident occurred amidst heavy rain and strong water currents. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343115-indian-tourist-missing-after-fall-at-koh-samui-waterfall-despite-warnings/

Fortuner Veers Off Expressway Curve, Driver Ejected and Killed in 3 Metre Fall A crash occurred when a black Toyota Fortuner lost control on a curve along the Udon Ratthaya Expressway, with the driver being ejected from the vehicle and falling approximately three metres to his death Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343132-fortuner-veers-off-expressway-curve-driver-ejected-and-killed-in-3-metre-fall /

British Man Injured in Pattaya Road Rage Incident with Thai Driver A British man sustained head injuries in a road rage incident with a Thai driver after a minor traffic collision led to a heated confrontation on Pattaya’s busy streets. The altercation took place near the LK Metro Hotel on Soi Buakhao in Pattaya’s Nong Prue district, Chonburi province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343094-british-man-injured-in-pattaya-road-rage-incident-with-thai-driver/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 11 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1343135-thailand-live-monday-11-november-2024/

Foreign Gang Robs Ukrainian Tourist of Over 8 Million Baht in Phuket Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A Ukrainian tourist fell victim to a foreign gang who lured him to a room in Phuket, where he was attacked, bound, and threatened with violence before being forced to transfer a staggering amount of 250,000 USD in cryptocurrency. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343146-foreign-gang-robs-ukrainian-tourist-of-over-8-million-baht-in-phuket/

Nine British tourists arrested for reckless driving in Phuket Nine British tourists were detained in Phuket for disturbing the peace after riding their motorcycles recklessly and causing a public nuisance that led to numerous complaints from residents and tourists. Picture courtesy: Thai Post Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343120-nine-british-tourists-arrested-for-reckless-driving-in-phuket/

Nine British tourists arrested for reckless driving in Phuket Picture courtesy: Thai Post Nine British tourists were detained in Phuket for disturbing the peace after riding their motorcycles recklessly and causing a public nuisance that led to numerous complaints from residents and tourists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343120-nine-british-tourists-arrested-for-reckless-driving-in-phuket/

Picture courtesy: Thai Post Nine British tourists were detained in Phuket for disturbing the peace after riding their motorcycles recklessly and causing a public nuisance that led to numerous complaints from residents and tourists. The incident occurred early Thursday morning, with the group riding loudly along Khok San Road toward the Muang district, according to Pol Col Ekarat Plaiduang, superintendent of the Chalong police station. Reports from witnesses described their behaviour as disruptive in the otherwise quiet resort area. Police later tracked down the group, who had rented the motorcycles from Patong for the late-night ride. All nine individuals were summoned to the police station, where they faced charges for public disturbance. Their documents were checked, and each was fined, with the incident formally recorded by authorities, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-10

Thaksin accused of undermining Thai monarchy, court decision imminent Picture courtesy of Thairath Former Thailand Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has not yet provided testimony in a legal case where both he and the ruling Pheu Thai Party face serious allegations. The accusations suggest attempts to undermine Thailand’s constitutional monarchy. This development comes as the deadline for public prosecutors to submit their findings to the Constitutional Court is fast approaching. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343017-thaksin-accused-of-undermining-thai-monarchy-court-decision-imminent/

Thailand and China Unite to Boost Tourism Across ASEAN Region File photo: Facebook Cambodia Express News The China Tourism Academy is spearheading an initiative to enhance tourism development in China and across ASEAN, positioning Thailand as a central tourism hub. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343056-thailand-and-china-unite-to-boost-tourism-across-asean-region/

File photo: Facebook Cambodia Express News The China Tourism Academy is spearheading an initiative to enhance tourism development in China and across ASEAN, positioning Thailand as a central tourism hub. This effort, revealed by the Association of Thai Travel Agents, comes from recent discussions between the association’s secretary-general, Adith Chairattananon, and Dai Bin, president of the China Tourism Academy. The plan aligns with a broader policy outlined by Chinese President Xi Jinping, aiming to establish China as a global leader in tourism. The focus is not only on generating economic revenue but also on leveraging tourism research and academic insights for national benefits across economic and environmental dimensions. A proposed tourism research team of 100 experts from China and ASEAN countries will study optimal strategies for fostering tourism collaboration. This initiative aims to impact over 2 billion people, including China’s 1.4 billion population and ASEAN’s 600 million residents. Upon developing the plan's framework, it will be presented to the Chinese government for approval. Collaboration with the Thai government will follow under a memorandum of understanding (MOU), facilitated by Chinese Ambassador Han Zhiqiang. The MOU signing is anticipated next year, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Thailand and China. Thailand's role as a tourism hub is attributed to its robust relationship with China, global recognition of its tourism industry, strategic geographic position, and potential for collaboration with ASEAN nations. This collaborative effort aims to strengthen tourism links between China and ASEAN, unlocking economic opportunities while improving the quality of life within the region. The project underscores a shared vision for sustainable tourism growth, leveraging Thailand's strategic role to amplify these efforts on a global platform, reported The Nation. -- 2024-11-09

Malaysia's Kelantan State Plans 100km Wall on Thai Border Picture courtesy: MGR online Kelantan, a Malaysian state adjoining Thailand's Narathiwat province, has put forward a proposal for constructing a 100-kilometre-long wall along its border. This ambitious project aims to address cross-border crimes, smuggling, and flooding issues. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343034-malaysias-kelantan-state-plans-100km-wall-on-thai-border/

Picture courtesy: MGR online Kelantan, a Malaysian state adjoining Thailand's Narathiwat province, has put forward a proposal for constructing a 100-kilometre-long wall along its border. This ambitious project aims to address cross-border crimes, smuggling, and flooding issues. Deputy Chief Minister Mohamed Fadzli Hassan shared with the Bernama news agency that Kelantan seeks approval from the federal government in Kuala Lumpur to proceed. The proposed wall will not only act as a physical barrier against illicit activities but also serve as a flood prevention measure. "Given the vastness of the Malaysia-Thailand border, relying solely on security forces to monitor the area is challenging. We are taking this proposal to the federal level," said Hassan on Tuesday. This initiative aligns with the suggestions of the Kelantan state police chief, who recently recommended such a measure to local authorities. The Kelantan-Narathiwat border runs along the Kolok River, presenting unique challenges due to its watery boundary. While Malaysian authorities have increased efforts to curb smuggling and crime along the Thai border, Kelantan faces particular difficulties. The issue is compounded by the fact that many border areas along the river are privately owned, complicating enforcement efforts. Neighbouring provinces like Satun, Songkhla, and Yala already have some existing border structures, including walls and fences. These are a mix of bilateral and unilateral projects designed to manage border integrity. As discussions move forward, this proposal highlights the ongoing complexity of managing international borders, where geographical and practical challenges persist. If approved, the wall would represent a significant commitment to addressing regional security and environmental issues. However, it may also require delicate negotiations with private landowners and careful consideration of cross-border relations, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-09

Anutin Visits Koh Kood as Thai-Cambodia MoU Stokes Fears File photo courtesy: Siam Rath Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, is scheduled to make a significant visit to Koh Kood island on Monday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343032-anutin-visits-koh-kood-as-thai-cambodia-mou-stokes-fears/

File photo courtesy: Siam Rath Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, is scheduled to make a significant visit to Koh Kood island on Monday. His visit comes amid concerns stirred by false information circulating about a 2001 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Thailand and Cambodia. This MoU has given rise to unfounded fears about Thailand's territorial claims over the picturesque island, popular with tourists. The source of these rumours dates back to an agreement from the early 2000s, signed during the tenure of former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and his Cambodian counterpart, Hun Sen. Despite assurances to the contrary, speculation persists about Koh Kood being partly under Cambodian jurisdiction, causing local unease and a notable 30% drop in tourism revenue on the island. Koh Kood, a tranquil paradise situated about 65 kilometres off the coast of Trat's mainland, was officially designated as a district in 2007. It has become a significant contributor to the region's economy, making the decline in tourist numbers a critical concern. Anutin's visit is intended to quell the fears among local residents and visitors, reinforcing Thailand's sovereignty over the island. As the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, Anutin's presence is also politically strategic, reflecting the government's commitment to local development and stability. Meanwhile, the broader political discourse continues, with Bhumjaithai maintaining a cautious approach to the unresolved boundary discussions. In contrast, the Palang Pracharath Party urges the current Pheu Thai-led government to annul the contentious bilateral agreement, believing it disadvantages Thailand, reported THai Newsroom. As the situation unfolds, Anutin's actions on Koh Kood are seen as crucial in restoring confidence and preserving the island's vital tourism economy. -- 2024-11-09

Thai FDA Approves Shine Muscat Grapes After Rigorous Testing File photo for reference only The Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has given the green light for a new shipment of imported Shine Muscat grapes, weighing in at 6.9 tonnes and valued at 3,053,616.47 baht (approximately US$89,780). The grapes have passed rigorous testing for agricultural chemical residues, confirming their safety for distribution throughout the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342999-thai-fda-approves-shine-muscat-grapes-after-rigorous-testing/

Thailand Named 2025 Destination of the Year by Travel + Leisure File photo for reference only Thailand has been chosen as “2025 Destination of the Year” by the US travel magazine, Travel + Leisure, gaining accolades for its cultural richness, stunning natural landscapes, and exquisite cuisine. This marks the tenth year of the magazine's prestigious annual recognition, celebrating countries that excel in cultural offerings, tourism innovation, and sustainable practices. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343009-thailand-named-2025-destination-of-the-year-by-travel-leisure/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 9 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1343019-thailand-live-saturday-9-november-2024/

Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Pattaya parents outraged after teacher attacks 12 year old boy Pattaya City is in uproar as furious parents of a 12 year old boy from Pattaya City School 2 claim their son was assaulted by his physical education (PE) teacher in a brutal attack that has sparked outrage and calls for immediate action. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343016-pattaya-parents-outraged-after-teacher-attacks-12-year-old-boy/

Stormy weather forecast: Thailand braces for a ‘rain’ of trouble by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Maksym Ivashchenko, Unsplash The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a warning for potential severe weather conditions affecting 28 provinces, with the southern region facing heavy to very heavy rainfall that could lead to flash floods and forest runoff. Meanwhile, cooler temperatures are expected in northern Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1342945-stormy-weather-forecast-thailand-braces-for-a-‘rain’-of-trouble/

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a warning for potential severe weather conditions affecting 28 provinces, with the southern region facing heavy to very heavy rainfall that could lead to flash floods and forest runoff. Meanwhile, cooler temperatures are expected in northern Thailand. A high-pressure system, originating from China, is currently covering the upper regions of Thailand and the South China Sea. This meteorological pattern is bringing cooler morning temperatures to these areas, with a slight decrease expected in the northeast. Additionally, a westerly wind wave from Myanmar is moving across the upper northern region, combined with a southeasterly wind at higher altitudes over the upper part of Thailand. These conditions are contributing to scattered rain and thunderstorms across the upper north, lower central, and eastern regions. Residents in northern Thailand are advised to take precautions due to the fluctuating weather, and farmers are encouraged to prepare for potential impacts on agricultural production. The monsoon trough is passing over the southern lower part of the country into a low-pressure cell in the lower South China Sea, while a moderate northeast monsoon continues to cover the upper Gulf of Thailand and the upper southern region, resulting in significant rainfall, said a TMD spokesperson. “Residents in the affected areas should be cautious of the dangers posed by heavy to very heavy rain and accumulated rainfall, which may trigger flash floods and forest runoff, particularly in foothill areas near waterways and low-lying regions.” The Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea are experiencing moderate wind conditions, with wave heights reaching 1 to 2 metres in the Gulf and about 1 metre in the Andaman Sea. Thunderstorms may cause waves to exceed 2 metres. Mariners in these areas should exercise caution and avoid sailing in thunderstorm-prone zones. Heavy rainfall The weather forecast for Thailand, from 6am today to 6am tomorrow, indicates cool mornings in the north with scattered rain or thunderstorms affecting 20% of the area, primarily in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phayao, and Nan. Temperatures are expected to range from a low of 20 to 24°C to a high of 23 to 33°C, with mountain tops experiencing cold weather and temperatures as low as 8 to 15°C. Easterly winds are expected at 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. In the northeastern region, cooler mornings are anticipated, with temperatures dropping slightly. The forecast predicts lows of 18 to 22°C and highs of 29 to 33°C, with mountaintops experiencing cool to cold conditions at temperatures between 11 and 16°C. Northeast winds are expected at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The central region will see cool mornings with isolated rain or thunderstorms affecting 10% of the area, mainly in Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Samut Songkhram, Samut Sakhon, and Nakhon Pathom. Temperatures will range from 22 to 25°C to 30 to 33°C, with northeast winds at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. Eastern areas are forecast to have isolated rain or thunderstorms covering 10% of the area, mainly in Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat, with temperatures ranging from 23 to 25°C to 32 to 34°C. Northeast winds will blow at 15 to 35 kilometres per hour, with sea waves reaching about 1 metre and 1 to 2 metres offshore. Thunderstorms may cause waves to exceed 2 metres. In the southern region (east coast), thunderstorms are expected in 70% of the area, with heavy to very heavy rainfall in some areas, including Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures will range from 22 to 24°C to 29 to 33°C, with northeast winds at 15 to 35 kilometres per hour and wave heights of 1 to 2 metres. Thunderstorms may cause waves to exceed 2 metres. The southern region (west coast) expects thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with some areas experiencing heavy rain, including Phang Nga, Krabi, Trang, and Satun. Temperatures will range from 23 to 25°C to 32 to 34°C, with easterly winds at 15 to 30 kilometres per hour and wave heights of about 1 metre. Thunderstorms may cause waves to exceed 2 metres, reported KhaoSod. In Bangkok and its vicinity, isolated rain or thunderstorms are expected in 10% of the area, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 26°C to 31 to 33°C. Northeast winds are expected at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Maksym Ivashchenko, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-08