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Visa Overstay Leads to Arrest of Maldivian East Coast Gang Picture courtesy: Siam Rath The Criminal Investigation Division of Immigration Police (ID) arrested Mr. Mohamed (last name withheld), age 28, Mr. Ashan (last name withheld), age 26, and Mr. Abdullah, age 19, all from the Maldives. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338138-visa-overstay-leads-to-arrest-of-maldivian-east-coast-gang/

The Criminal Investigation Division of Immigration Police (ID) arrested Mr. Mohamed (last name withheld), age 28, Mr. Ashan (last name withheld), age 26, and Mr. Abdullah, age 19, all from the Maldives. They were accused of overstaying their visas. They were taken to the Investigative Division of the Investigation Unit for legal proceedings. The arrests took place at a condominium on Ramkhamhaeng Road, Huamark Subdistrict, Bangkapi District, Bangkok. Picture courtesy: Naew Na Details of the Arrest: Through investigations, the police found that these three Maldivian nationals were residing at a condominium on Ramkhamhaeng Road, Huamark and exhibited suspicious behavior. The officers then observed the area and saw a foreigner acting suspiciously around the condominium. They identified themselves and requested to see his passport. The foreigner identified as Mr. Mohamed could not provide his passport, claiming it was in his room. He led the officers to his room, where they found Mr. Ashan and Mr. Abdullah, who were also acting suspiciously. Upon checking their passports, it was discovered that their visas had expired, leading to their arrest. They were all taken for further legal action. Further investigation revealed that the three had criminal records in the Maldives for jointly assaulting someone with a sharp object and threatening others. They had used weapons to stab the victim in the head, face, and body, causing severe injuries. They were part of the East Coast Gang, a violent local crime group in the Maldives involved in drug trafficking. These individuals were also on INTERPOL's Red Notice list. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath The Immigration Bureau would like to inform the public that they maintain strict measures to monitor, crack down, and prevent various offences, including the surveillance of both Thai nationals and foreigners with arrest warrants. They also monitor the entry and exit of individuals into Thailand. If any member of the public has information about illegal activities, they are encouraged to contact the Immigration Bureau at the Chalermprakiat Building, located at 904 Moo 6, Banmai Subdistrict, Pak Kret District, Nonthaburi 11120, or contact the local immigration office in your area or visit www.immigration.go.th. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-09-14

Thailand's 5-20 Year Visa Now a Bit Cheaper The Thai Privilege Visa (TPV), previously known as the Elite Visa, has recently suspended its 50,000 baht (approximately US$1,500) registration fee that was used for background checks of applicants. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338130-thailands-5-20-year-visa-now-a-bit-cheaper/

The Thai Privilege Visa (TPV), previously known as the Elite Visa, has recently suspended its 50,000 baht (approximately US$1,500) registration fee that was used for background checks of applicants. This fee waiver is available for applications submitted from the beginning of September to the end of 2024. The TPV offers various visa options ranging from 5 to 20 years, each featuring unique perks and bonuses, with current prices spanning from 900,000 baht to over 2 million baht. In a recent announcement, the Privilege company, wholly owned by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, stated that this move aims to attract more new members during a period of economic uncertainty and evolving visa policies. The timing of this decision hints that the primary motive may be to compete with new visa options such as the 10-year Long Term Residence Visa and the recently introduced 5-year Destination Thailand Visa. Additionally, travellers now have easier access to Thailand with options such as a 60-day visa on arrival, extendable by another month at Thai immigration, and border-hopping for repeated stays, writes Barry Kenyon for Pattaya Mail. The Elite Visa, launched in 2003 and transferred to the Privilege Card in 2013, has always included benefits like multiple entries, fast-track services at Thai airports, and discounts at selected retail outlets, hotels, spas, and golf courses. Although its appeal initially fell short of expectations, the Covid-19 pandemic saw a surge in applications from affluent visitors who sought the flexibility to enter and exit Thailand at will. It is estimated that the current enrollment stands at around 30,000, with the largest group coming from China. Originally conceived by then-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, the Elite Visa struggled to meet its ambitious membership goals. Early promises that members would be allowed to purchase a small plot of land in their name for residential use were eventually vetoed by the Cabinet. Over the years, the rules for different TPV categories have become increasingly complicated, with higher-cost options offering more generous perks. While all nationalities except North Koreans are now eligible to apply, the future of the TPV remains a contentious issue. Ultimately, the suspension of the registration fee and other strategic changes come as part of an ongoing effort to make Thailand more attractive to long-term international visitors, despite the complexities and controversies surrounding the visa. Top: File photo -- 2024-09-14

Gumball 3000 Supercar Rally to be Hosted in Thailand Next Week by Krajangwit Johjit BANGKOK (NNT) - The Gumball 3000 supercar rally is being hosted in Thailand from September 17 to 20, featuring over 100 luxury supercars. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338129-gumball-3000-supercar-rally-to-be-hosted-in-thailand-next-week/

BANGKOK (NNT) - The Gumball 3000 supercar rally is being hosted in Thailand from September 17 to 20, featuring over 100 luxury supercars. Driven by more than 220 global celebrities, the convoy will journey through 15 provinces: Sa Kaeo, Prachin Buri, Chachoengsao, Samut Prakan, Bangkok, Nakhon Pathom, Ratchaburi, Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Krabi, Phang Nga, Trang, and Satun. A key event will take place at CentralWorld in Bangkok on September 17, sporting a supercar exhibition and live music. Another highlight will be a charity football match on Koh Panyee's iconic floating football field in Phang Nga province on September 19. In addition to its focus on luxury cars, the Gumball 3000 rally is expected to benefit Thailand's tourism sector and support local economies by channeling income to communities along the route. The event provides an opportunity to attract high-end tourists and further enhance Thailand's reputation as a host for international events. Both participants and spectators are urged to observe traffic regulations to ensure a safe and smooth experience. by Krajangwit Johjit Source: NNT -- 2024-09-14

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 14 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1338128-thailand-live-saturday-14-september-2024/

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to rejuvenate the nation’s tourism sector with its “Charming Thailand: 5 Regions” event series. Thailand Launches Charming 5 Regions Tour to Revive Tourism Industry Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338103-thailand-launches-charming-5-regions-tour-to-revive-tourism-industry/

Australian man arrested on Koh Pha Ngan for 15 sexual assaults by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ tourthai news Immigration Bureau officers arrested an Australian man who had evaded justice for 15 sexual assault cases in his home country. He was found hiding on Koh Pha Ngan, an island in Surat Thani Province. The Commander of the Royal Thai Police (RTP), Torsak Sukvimol, instructed officers, particularly those from the Immigration Bureau, to intensify their efforts in investigating illegal foreigners in Thailand. This crackdown aims to prevent the country from being used as a refuge for criminal activities or a hideout for fugitives. The Surat Thani Provincial Immigration Office responded to the policy, leading to multiple arrests of illegal foreigners in the province and its renowned island, Koh Pha Ngan. As part of this ongoing operation, a recent arrest was made of 62 year old Australian man Helio Taiyang Richardson on September 12. Immigration police found Richardson on the Interpol blue notice wanted list for a series of sexual assaults in Australia. Officers discovered that Richardson arrived in Thailand on June 16, this year and visited Koh Pha Ngan. His visa expired on July 15, 2024, but he renewed it for travel purposes, extending its validity until August 14. Officers also found that Richardson planned to apply for a retirement visa to spend the rest of his life in Thailand. Immigration police arrested Richardson at a resort on the island yesterday. He will be charged with overstaying his visa in Thailand before being transferred to Australia for legal proceedings related to the sexual assault cases. The Immigration Bureau urged anyone who witnesses illegal activities by foreigners or has useful information about illegal foreign nationals to report it to the bureau for the safety of both locals and tourists. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai woman forces 12 year old niece into prostitution with govt official by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 A Thai woman forced her 12 year old niece into prostitution, offering sex services to a 60 year old government official in the central province of Suphan Buri. The case came to light when the 12 year old victim fled from home and sought help from a friend’s family. The family accompanied the girl to the Doem Bang Nang Buat Police Station to file a complaint. Police revealed that the girl’s aunt, whose name remains undisclosed, allegedly forced her to offer sex services to the 60 year old man, named Sakhon Pornsatjadham, who worked as a member of the district administrative organisation council. Sakhon was arrested yesterday, September 12, after being summoned for questioning. He admitted to paying the girl’s aunt 2,000 baht for sex with the young girl. He said he arranged a meeting at a local convenience store before taking the girl to a hotel. Sakhon claimed to have taken Viagra before sexually assaulting the girl. He then returned the girl to the convenience store, where her aunt was waiting to pick her up. The aunt allegedly shared 1,000 baht of the 2,000 baht payment with the girl. According to the victim, her aunt forced her to provide sex services to Sakhon again, but she refused. Scared of her aunt’s anger, the girl decided to flee from her home to stay with her friend. Sakhon was charged under Section 277 of the Criminal Law, which carries a penalty of imprisonment from five to 20 years and a fine from 10,000 to 400,000 baht. It remains unclear whether the girl’s aunt was summoned for questioning or charged with any crime. In a related incident, an 11 year old girl was allegedly tricked by her aunt into meeting a perverted man who attempted to rape her in his pickup truck. Fortunately, the girl managed to escape. Her father, frustrated with the slow pace of the legal system, took matters into his own hands and brutally beat up the suspect. There is no update on whether the girl has received justice. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Torrential trouble: Thailand braces for flood of rain until Tuesday by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Dominik QN, Unsplash Heavy rain and potential flash floods have been forecasted across Thailand until Tuesday, September 17, warns the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD). The announcement, issued at 5pm yesterday, cautioned that several regions would experience increased rainfall and strong winds in the Andaman Sea and the upper Gulf of Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338059-torrential-trouble-thailand-braces-for-flood-of-rain-until-tuesday/

Heavy rain and potential flash floods have been forecasted across Thailand until Tuesday, September 17, warns the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD). The announcement, issued at 5pm yesterday, cautioned that several regions would experience increased rainfall and strong winds in the Andaman Sea and the upper Gulf of Thailand. In the coming days, substantial rainfall will hit Thailand, particularly in the northeast, central, eastern, and western southern regions. Residents in these areas are urged to remain vigilant for flash floods and water runoff, especially those near hillsides, waterways, and low-lying areas. This warning follows the department’s initial notice about the severe weather conditions. The heavy rains are attributed to the monsoon trough moving across the lower northern, upper central, and northeastern regions, converging with a low-pressure area over central Vietnam. Additionally, the moderate southwest monsoon covering the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the upper Gulf of Thailand is expected to intensify, contributing to the adverse weather. From today, the provinces anticipated to be most affected by heavy rainfall include the northeast of the country: Udon Thani, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Yasothon, Kalasin, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, Roi Et, Amnat Charoen, Buriram, Surin, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani. East: Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Heavy rain The influence of the monsoon trough will be most pronounced from tomorrow, September 14 to September 15 in the north of Thailand: Nan, Phrae, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, Phichit, Phetchabun, Kamphaeng Phet, and Tak. In the northeast: Bueng Kan, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Yasothon, Kalasin, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, Maha Sarakham, Roi Et, Amnat Charoen, Buriram, Surin, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani. Central Thailand: Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Lopburi, Saraburi, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Ayutthaya, including Bangkok and its vicinity. East Thailand: Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Sa Kaeo, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. South: Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun. From September 16 to September 17, the affected areas in the north will be: Nan, Phrae, Uttaradit, Sukhothai, Phitsanulok, Phichit, Phetchabun, Kamphaeng Phet, and Tak. In the northeast: Loei, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, Maha Sarakham, Roi Et, Amnat Charoen, Buriram, Surin, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani. Central Thailand: Nakhon Sawan, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Suphan Buri, Lopburi, Saraburi, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Ayutthaya, Samut Songkhram, Samut Sakhon, Nakhon Pathom, including Bangkok and its vicinity. East Thailand: Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Sa Kaeo, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. South Thailand: Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, Narathiwat, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun. Strong winds are expected in the Andaman Sea and upper Gulf of Thailand, with waves reaching heights of 2 to 3 metres from September 14 to September 17. Thunderstorm areas may experience waves exceeding 3 metres, while the lower Gulf of Thailand will see waves around 2 metres, increasing in thunderstorm areas. Sailors are advised to exercise caution and avoid navigating in thunderstorm-prone areas, while smaller vessels in the Andaman Sea and upper Gulf of Thailand should remain ashore during this period, reported KhaoSod. The public is encouraged to stay updated with announcements from TMD, accessible via their website or through their 24-hour hotline at 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Dominik QN, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Pigeon Feeding Blamed for Thai Man’s Lung Illness A Thai woman is seeking urgent help after her 80-year-old father developed a severe lung infection and tuberculosis, allegedly due to a neighbour feeding over 100 pigeons daily in Nakhon Pathom. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338056-pigeon-feeding-blamed-for-thai-man’s-lung-illness/

FILE photo A Thai woman is seeking urgent help after her 80-year-old father developed a severe lung infection and tuberculosis, allegedly due to a neighbour feeding over 100 pigeons daily in Nakhon Pathom. Anisa and her father rented a house opposite a pigeon caretaker named Tew in September last year. Discovering the pigeon issue only after signing the rental contract, Anisa found herself unable to move. Footage shared by Anisa with Amarin TV shows large numbers of pigeons congregating at Tew’s house. In the video, Anisa questions the government’s lack of intervention. “Today is August 18, 2024, about 5.20pm. What are the government officials going to do about this? Hundreds of pigeons gather here. What should I do? My father is now suffering from a lung infection. This is a life-threatening disease. Please help us. She (Tew) doesn’t seem to stop her actions,” Anisa lamented. Already a heart disease patient, Anisa's father is now battling several complications, including a lung infection and tuberculosis. Anisa suspects the pigeons are the cause. Neighbour’s Actions: According to Anisa, Tew feeds the pigeons every evening, attracting large flocks. This results in the surrounding area and community being blanketed in droppings and feathers, increasing health hazards. Official Response: Anisa reported the situation to local authorities, prompting officials to warn Tew about the dangers of her actions. Tew, however, insisted she does not raise the birds, claiming they come to her by themselves. Despite the warnings, Tew continued her feeding routine, transferring it to the back of her house, but the problem persists. During a visit by Amarin TV, reporters observed the extensive pigeon presence at Tew’s home. Tew demonstrated her feeding method and bird care setup, which includes a room for sick birds with medication. Emphasising her long-time residence of over 20 years, Tew noted she has never had health issues or conflicts with neighbours. Insisting on feeding the pigeons out of compassion, she stated, “I cannot let them starve.” Despite Anisa’s pleas, relevant government departments have yet to take further action, leaving the community and Anisa’s family to contend with the ongoing issue. -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

World’s best hotel: Bangkok’s Mandarin Oriental steals the show by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of MICHELIN Guide Bangkok’s iconic Mandarin Oriental Hotel has officially snagged the prestigious title of the Best Hotel in Asia and the World, according to The Telegraph’s Hotel Awards. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338053-world’s-best-hotel-bangkok’s-mandarin-oriental-steals-the-show/

Bangkok’s iconic Mandarin Oriental Hotel has officially snagged the prestigious title of the Best Hotel in Asia and the World, according to The Telegraph’s Hotel Awards. The British media giant, known for its high standards, placed the luxurious Thai retreat at the top of its 2024 list, beating fierce global competition. This award comes after The Telegraph’s hotel and destination experts combed through a staggering 10,000 hotel reviews to determine the crème de la crème. In a glowing review, Lee Cobaj, the head Asia judge, couldn’t contain her admiration. “There is simply nowhere else like it. The Mandarin Oriental, Bangkok, is the most wonderful hotel in the world, and to paraphrase Noël Coward, I am fonder of it than ever.” The lavish property wasn’t the only one making waves in the rankings. Hot on its heels were Europe’s top contender, Ballyfin in Ireland, followed by Ellerman House in South Africa, Hong Kong’s Peninsula Hotel, and Les Prés d’Eugénie in France—all securing coveted spots in the top five. Thailand also enjoyed another moment of glory with Six Senses Yao Noi, a serene hideaway, landing an impressive 21st place in the highly competitive awards, reported Pattaya Mail. In related news, the popular travel booking platform, Agoda, included Thailand among the world’s destinations that tourists cannot get enough of. Other countries at the top of the ranking were Japan and South Korea. Agoda had just released the Return Visitor Ranking on September 5 after surveying travellers who had recently booked their next trip on the platform. The survey suggested that more than half of the respondents visited their favourite places repeatedly. In other news, Maya Bay, located on the idyllic Phi Phi Islands in Krabi province, has been named the 5th-best beach in the world for 2024 by Beach Atlas, a website based in the United Kingdom. This prestigious recognition places Maya Bay at the top of the list not only in Thailand but also as the number one beach across the ASEAN region. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of MICHELIN Guide Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 13 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338051-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-13-september-2024/

NEWS - 13-September.mp4 The government has ordered authorities to intensify relief efforts in flood-hit northern provinces, particularly Chiang Rai. The prime minister held an urgent cabinet meeting and directed the Interior, Defense, and Agriculture ministries to evacuate people and livestock. she emphasized the need for more shelters and food kitchens and promised emergency funds will be allocated to assist victims. The PM is due to visit the north today where flooding is said to be the worst for 80 years. The Narathiwat Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for six defendants in a 2004 massacre case after they failed to show up, Human rights activists worry further delays could jeopardize the case, with the 20-year statute of limitations due to expire on October 25th. The defendants face charges of murder and unlawful detention during a protest where seven were shot and 78 others died from suffocation in army trucks. prime minister at the time Thaksin Shinawatra apologised for the massacre but stopped short of accepting responsibility. United Front of Thammasat and Demonstration leaders yesterday submitted a petition letter to a government representative to push for political amnesty for all political detainees including those charged under the lese majeste law. A construction crane on a new MRT line in Thonburi, Bangkok, collapsed yesterday afternoon, injuring a motorcycle passenger. The accident is suspected to have been caused by land subsidence. Around the region The Philippine government said it had completed the recovery of fuel cargo from a sunken oil tanker on Manila Bay, avoiding an "environmental catastrophe". The MT Terra-nova went down with 1.4 million litres of industrial fuel oil on Jul 25 in rough seas churned by a Typhoon killing one crew member. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Thundershowers 30C degrees celsius Bangkok: Thunderstorms 33 Pattaya: Sunny partly cloudy showers 32 Phuket and the south: Cloudy with thundershowers 29C Hua Hin: Bright but Cloudy, expect rain this afternoon 32C Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. 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 2024-09-13 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Suphan Buri: Subdistrict Administrative Member Caught Exploiting 12-Year-Old Girl Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a disturbing case from Suphan Buri, a 12-year-old girl fled to seek help after being forced into prostitution by her aunt to serve a local official in Doembang Nangbuat District. The aunt received 2,000 baht, giving only 1,000 baht to the girl. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338050-suphan-buri-subdistrict-administrative-member-caught-exploiting-12-year-old-girl/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a disturbing case from Suphan Buri, a 12-year-old girl fled to seek help after being forced into prostitution by her aunt to serve a local official in Doembang Nangbuat District. The aunt received 2,000 baht, giving only 1,000 baht to the girl. On September 12, 2024, police from Doembang Nangbuat Station questioned a Tambon Administrative Organization Council member, identified as Mr. Sakon Phonsajjatham, following allegations of sexual abuse involving the girl. The girl's aunt reportedly arranged for her niece to provide sexual services to Mr. Sakon. Authorities, including the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, escorted the victim’s family for questioning and protection, while Mr. Sakon was interrogated. Efforts were made to keep the family and the girl under care and away from media interference. Initial investigations revealed that Mr. Sakon negotiated with the girl's aunt, who brought her niece to him for 2,000 baht. The girl was taken to a hotel, where Mr. Sakon abused her after consuming a pill. Afterwards, he returned the girl to her aunt, who gave her 1,000 baht. When the girl refused to go with Mr. Sakon again, citing pain, her aunt scolded her. Fearing further abuse, the girl sought refuge at a friend’s house, eventually contacting trusted individuals who helped her reach government authorities. The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security is now pursuing charges against Mr. Sakon for child rape. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Aussie Arrested in Koh Phangan for 15 Sexual Assault Cases in Australia Picture courtesy: Daily News Surat Thani Immigration Police have apprehended an Australian fugitive wanted for 15 cases of sexual assault and rape, who was hiding in Thailand for retirement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338048-aussie-arrested-in-koh-phangan-for-15-sexual-assault-cases-in-australia/

Surat Thani Immigration Police have apprehended an Australian fugitive wanted for 15 cases of sexual assault and rape, who was hiding in Thailand for retirement. On September 12, Pol. Col. Naruwat Phuthawiro, Superintendent of Surat Thani Immigration, along with Pol. Lt. Col. Sangwansap Lapsanong and Pol. Lt. Col. Sirivat Somwang, both Deputy Superintendents, and an investigative team detained Mr. Helio, a 62-year-old Australian national, for overstaying his visa. It was discovered that Mr. Helio was subject to an INTERPOL Blue Notice for multiple sexual assault and rape charges in Australia. Pol. Col. Naruwat reported that the investigation team received a tip about Mr. Helio, who had been committing sexual crimes in Australia since 2017 and was hiding in Thailand. Mr. Helio entered Thailand on June 16, 2024, with a tourist exemption visa valid until July 15, 2024. He extended his stay by another 30 days, until August 15, 2024. Picture courtesy: Daily News During this time, Mr. Helio applied for an extension to live in Thailand for retirement, which had already expired. The team later located his residence at a resort on Koh Phangan and arrested him for overstaying his visa. He was handed over to the Koh Phangan Police Station for further legal action. Pol. Col. Naruwat emphasized that Mr. Helio’s criminal record posed a risk of further crimes if he continued to evade capture in Thailand. For public safety, citizens are urged to report any suspicious foreigners or tourists who might be criminals to Surat Thani Immigration to help prevent crimes and ensure safety in the province. TOP Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Man Attacks Store Owner with Iron Pipe in Samut Prakan BANGKOK - September 13th, police officers from Mueang Samut Prakan Station, together with rescue teams from Samut Prakan Hospital and Ruam Kuson Samut Prakan Foundation, responded to an assault in front of a grocery store on the main path of Soi Tai Baan 17, Tai Baan Subdistrict, Mueang District, Samut Prakan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338045-man-attacks-store-owner-with-iron-pipe-in-samut-prakan/

BANGKOK - September 13th, police officers from Mueang Samut Prakan Station, together with rescue teams from Samut Prakan Hospital and Ruam Kuson Samut Prakan Foundation, responded to an assault in front of a grocery store on the main path of Soi Tai Baan 17, Tai Baan Subdistrict, Mueang District, Samut Prakan. At the scene, Ms. Muey (surname withheld), aged 63 and the store owner, was found unconscious with a head injury and a severe laceration behind her ear, bleeding profusely. The responders provided initial first aid before she was transported to Samut Prakan Hospital. A blood-stained metal pipe was also found at the scene. The perpetrator was identified as Mr. Suthep, also known as Tom (surname withheld), aged 33, who is the nephew of the injured woman. After attacking his aunt with the pipe, Mr. Suthep attempted to flee but was apprehended by nearby residents. Mr. Suthep's statements were incoherent, resembling someone under the influence of drugs, so the authorities took him to the police station to calm down before proceeding with the legal investigation. Picture courtesy: Daily News Further background checks revealed Mr. Suthep had a history of drug involvement and was recently released from prison for theft just 2-3 days prior. He also had a history of psychiatric treatment. At the time of the incident, Ms. Muey was watching television in front of her store when Mr. Suthep suddenly struck her with the pipe, rendering her unconscious. Nearby residents promptly surrounded and caught him, then handed him over to the police. TOP Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Picture: Siam Rath