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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

PM Paetongtarn's Policy Statement critisised as Echo of Thaksin’s Vision Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra makes the policy statement at parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) During the parliamentary debate on the policy statement delivered by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, People’s Party MP Sirikanya Tansakul criticised the newly unveiled plans, arguing they largely mirror the ideas previously promoted by Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai Party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338042-pm-paetongtarns-policy-statement-critisised-as-echo-of-thaksin’s-vision/

Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra makes the policy statement at parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) During the parliamentary debate on the policy statement delivered by Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, People’s Party MP Sirikanya Tansakul criticised the newly unveiled plans, arguing they largely mirror the ideas previously promoted by Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai Party. Sirikanya highlighted that the policy statement strays significantly from Pheu Thai Party’s campaign promises. Instead, she noted, many of the Prime Minister’s initiatives echoed points made by Thaksin in his recent speech, suggesting the current government lacks originality and autonomy. "The statement is no different from former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s policies, with broad objectives but unclear goals," Sirikanya commented. She also pointed out the absence of the highly anticipated 10,000 baht digital wallet project, a key campaign promise, and questioned whether the government still plans to implement it. Thaksin had addressed 14 issues on 22nd August, and 11 of these were repeated in the policy statement, including the digital wallet project for "fragile groups." According to Sirikanya, this trend reflects a recycling of policies from the Thai Rak Thai Party, founded by Thaksin in 1998, and led until his ousting in the 2006 coup in Thailand. “This isn’t just consistent; it’s akin to AAA+ on Miller’s Pyramid of Assessment. It’s about responsibility being handed down rather than innovation,” she remarked. Sirikanya expressed concerns that future cabinet meetings might become mere formalities, with significant decisions being made by outsiders to the official government structure. She added that she seeks a Prime Minister who radiates her own brilliance, comparing the ideal leader to a shining star rather than a mere reflection like the moon. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira later confirmed that the first phase of the 10,000 baht digital wallet payouts would begin on 25th September. The initiative targets 14.2 million people in vulnerable groups, injecting 140 billion baht into the economy. Pichai acknowledged Thailand’s economic slowdown over the past five years, stressing that immediate action is necessary to prevent further decline and to initiate a path to recovery and growth, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Alleged Drunk Driver Causes Traffic Jam in Pattaya After Refusing to Exit Car Following Collision By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — An allegedly heavily intoxicated Thai driver in Pattaya caused a traffic jam after refusing to exit her car following a minor collision. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338037-alleged-drunk-driver-causes-traffic-jam-in-pattaya-after-refusing-to-exit-car/

Pattaya — An allegedly heavily intoxicated Thai driver in Pattaya caused a traffic jam after refusing to exit her car following a minor collision. At 6:06 AM on September 12th, 2024, Pattaya police received a report from local residents about a traffic accident involving a collision on Pattaya Second Road in the Nongprue sub-district. Upon receiving the report, officers, along with The Pattaya News reporters, rushed to the scene. There, residents and rescue workers were found surrounding a white Honda Civic driven by the female suspect. The driver, who was believed to be under the influence of alcohol, refused to exit the vehicle or negotiate with the other drivers, causing traffic congestion. Police spent over 30 minutes persuading the driver to step out of her car. The driver eventually complied, claiming she was allegedly waiting for insurance representatives to arrive, who never did. A bottle of alcohol was reportedly found inside the vehicle and police kept it as evidence. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Court Issues Arrest Warrants for Tak Bai Massacre Defendants After No-Shows Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The Narathiwat Court has issued arrest warrants for six defendants linked to the tragic "Tak Bai massacre" following their failure to attend their court hearings. The high-profile case revisits a dark chapter in Thailand’s history, nearly two decades after the deadly event took place. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338035-court-issues-arrest-warrants-for-tak-bai-massacre-defendants-after-no-shows/

The Narathiwat Court has issued arrest warrants for six defendants linked to the tragic "Tak Bai massacre" following their failure to attend their court hearings. The high-profile case revisits a dark chapter in Thailand’s history, nearly two decades after the deadly event took place. The seventh defendant, retired Lieutenant General Pisan Wattanawongkiri, currently a party-list MP for the ruling Pheu Thai Party, was not subject to an arrest warrant due to parliamentary immunity. The court will urgently request the House Speaker's permission to arrest Pisan or have him waive his immunity. Should he comply, Pisan would be expected to appear in court on 15th October. The six defendants who now face arrest include: - Major General Chalermchai Wirunpeth, former Fifth Infantry Division commander - Police Lieutenant General Wongkot Maneerin, former director of the Royal Thai Police’s Forward Command Centre - Police Lieutenant General Manot Kraiwong, ex-chief of Provincial Police Region 9 - Police Colonel Saksomchai Phutthakul, former superintendent of Tak Bai police station - Siwa Sangmanee, former deputy director of the Southern Border Provinces Peacebuilding Centre and later Interior Ministry deputy permanent secretary - Wichom Thongsong, ex-Narathiwat governor The court confirmed that authorities have the mandate to arrest these six defendants before the statute of limitations expires on 25th October. The massacre occurred on 25th October 2004, when approximately 1,500 Thai Muslims gathered to protest in front of the Tak Bai district police station in Narathiwat. They were rallying against the detention of six men. As tensions escalated, police responded with tear gas and live ammunition, leading to seven immediate deaths, reported Thai PBS. Following the crackdown, nearly 1,300 protesters were detained. Tragically, 78 of them died from suffocation and organ failure after being piled on top of each other in trucks during a five-hour transport to the Inkayut army camp in Pattani Province. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-09-13 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 13 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1338034-thailand-live-friday-13-september-2024/

Thai Hotels Struggle as Mid-Priced Rooms Fail to Attract Tourists File photo Thailand's hotel industry grappled with occupancy challenges in August, particularly within the budget and mid-priced segments. Despite a nationwide average occupancy rate improvement to 61.8% from 58.4% year-on-year, levels still lagged behind the pre-pandemic figure of 64.7%. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338003-thai-hotels-struggle-as-mid-priced-rooms-fail-to-attract-tourists/

Phuket, Thailand’s picturesque island getaway, has earned the unfortunate distinction of being the world’s most overcrowded destination. Once renowned for its serene beaches and tranquil atmosphere, Phuket now sees tourists outnumbering locals by an astonishing 118 to one. Phuket Named World’s Most Overcrowded Destination Amid Tourism Boom Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338016-phuket-named-world’s-most-overcrowded-destination-amid-tourism-boom/

Big Buddha boss charged with illegal land grab in landslide scandal byPuntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Suporn Wanichkul, the chairperson of the Phra Phuttha Ming Mongol Sattha 45 Foundation, which oversees Phuket’s iconic Big Buddha, has landed in hot water. Accused of illegal forest encroachment, Suporn now faces serious charges connected to the deadly landslide that rocked the region last month. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337967-big-buddha-boss-charged-with-illegal-land-grab-in-landslide-scandal/

Suporn Wanichkul, the chairperson of the Phra Phuttha Ming Mongol Sattha 45 Foundation, which oversees Phuket’s iconic Big Buddha, has landed in hot water. Accused of illegal forest encroachment, Suporn now faces serious charges connected to the deadly landslide that rocked the region last month. Suporn was formally charged yesterday, September 11, at Karon Police Station by Police Lieutenant Colonel Ekkasak Kwanwan. The charge, which extends to the foundation itself, involves illegal clearing, construction, and occupation of protected forest land. Both Suporn and the foundation are accused of operating without permission, causing a ripple of local outrage following the catastrophic landslide on August 23. The landslide, which tragically claimed 19 lives, injured 19 others, and destroyed over 50 homes, has been linked to alleged illegal construction at the Big Buddha viewpoint. Locals pointed the finger at Suporn’s foundation, claiming the unapproved work destabilised the area, leading to the disaster. The Royal Forest Department (RFD) launched a full-scale investigation into the allegations, seizing over 5 rai of land that had been illegally expanded upon. Suporn, however, denies all charges personally and on behalf of the foundation, reported Phuket News. RFD Deputy Director-General Bannaruk Sermthong stated that if the foundation is found guilty of illegal encroachment, all unauthorised structures at the site will be demolished. ORIGINAL STORY: Land encroachment scandal rocks Phuket Big Buddha The Phuket Big Buddha Foundation is in hot water after the Forest Department accused its chairman of land encroachment. This follows a catastrophic mudslide that claimed 13 lives, predominantly Myanmar nationals, last week at Khao Nak Kerd, Phuket’s tallest peak. Officials from the Forest Department, along with the Phuket Buddhism Office, police, and local officials, carried out a rigorous inspection of the Big Buddha site and its surroundings yesterday, August 27. Their goal was to verify whether the entire compound adhered to the 2.4-hectare land limit stipulated by the Forest Department. Armed with GPS technology, the team uncovered a troubling discrepancy: the entire compound sprawled across approximately 3.2 hectares, exceeding the allowed area. This surplus land was used for additional parking, restrooms, and other facilities. Officials suspect that this alleged encroachment and unauthorised construction may have exacerbated the recent mudslide, triggered by heavy rains. The Big Buddha, an iconic 45-metre tall statue clad in Burmese white marble, is a significant landmark on the island. However, this controversy threatens to tarnish its revered status. The Forest Department’s complaint now puts the spotlight on the foundation’s chairman, raising questions about regulatory compliance and the broader impact on the local environment, reported Thai PBS World. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-12 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Banglamung Police Confused by Suspects Claim to be 100 Years Old During Drug Arrest By Adam Judd Police officers at Banglamung Police Station were left perplexed after arresting a suspect who claimed to be over 100 years old, despite his identification card stating he was 33 and him clearly appearing to be decades younger. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337966-banglamung-police-confused-by-suspects-claim-to-be-100-years-old-during-drug-arrest/

Police officers at Banglamung Police Station were left perplexed after arresting a suspect who claimed to be over 100 years old, despite his identification card stating he was 33 and him clearly appearing to be decades younger. At approximately 3:00 AM on September 11th, 2024, Pol. Col. Nawin Sinthurat, Superintendent of Banglamung Police Station, assigned officers to crack down on illegal activities in the area. The team, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Kornpong Sukwisit, Deputy Superintendent of Investigation, were conducting their patrol when they encountered a motorcycle without license plates and non-functional headlights and taillights. Upon inspection, the officers discovered two methamphetamine pills in the possession of Mr. Anuwat, also known as Ta Khamloet, aged 33, from Sakon Nakhon Province. The pills were found in a clear plastic bag inside a black cigarette box labeled “VOXX.” A subsequent urine test confirmed the presence of drugs. By Adam Judd Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-09-12 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai supermarket Big C to launch four new branches by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Big C Supercenter Plc, one of Thailand’s biggest supermarket and convenience store chains, is set to expand with the launch of four additional branches by the end of 2025. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337961-thai-supermarket-big-c-to-launch-four-new-branches/

Big C Supercenter Plc, one of Thailand’s biggest supermarket and convenience store chains, is set to expand with the launch of four additional branches by the end of 2025. Company Chief Executive and President Aswin Techajareonvikul announced plans to renovate 18 existing stores and open one new store this year, with a total investment of 5 billion baht. “Moreover, the company aims to add three more stores by the end of 2025 and continue to expand its Big C Mini convenience store.” Currently, Big C operates over 1,800 stores across Thailand and in international locations such as Hong Kong, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam. The company has decided not to renew lease agreements for its Sukhaphiban 3-2 branch in Bang Kapi, Bangkok, and the Rangsit 2 branch in Lam Luk Ka, Pathum Thani. The branches will remain open until September 15 and 30, respectively. “The employees can transfer to nearby Big C branches or apply to work for Big C in their hometowns on a voluntary basis.” Additionally, Big C announced the relocation of its Rat Burana branch in Bangkok to a new freehold area under Berli Jucker Plc at the Chao Phraya River basin. The current store will remain open until October 31, and the newly relocated store is expected to open next year, reported Bangkok Post. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-12 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreigner Steals Taxi While High on Cannabis, Crashes into Lamp Post Picture courtesy: Daily News Pattaya - A Foreign man, reportedly high on cannabis, stole a taxi that was left running outside a convenience store. He drove only a short distance before crashing into a lamp post, causing severe damage to the vehicle and sustaining minor injuries himself. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337958-foreigner-steals-taxi-while-high-on-cannabis-crashes-into-lamp-post/

Pattaya - Foreign man, reportedly high on cannabis, stole a taxi that was left running outside a convenience store. He drove only a short distance before crashing into a lamp post, causing severe damage to the vehicle and sustaining minor injuries himself. On September 12, Deputy Inspector Puttarak Sonkamhan from Pattaya’s Dongtan Police Station was alerted to an accident where a foreigner had crashed a vehicle into a lamp post on Thappraya-Jomtien Road. At the scene, police found a heavily damaged blue-and-yellow taxi, registration number 721. Behind the wheel was a foreign man, estimated to be between 25-35 years old, visibly intoxicated and wearing only boxer shorts. The man admitted he had smoked cannabis before the incident. The taxi driver, Sarayut Panprasong, 37, explained that he had left the vehicle running while he entered the store. He saw the foreigner quickly get into the car and drive off before crashing into a nearby lamp post. Fortunately, traffic police conducting an alcohol checkpoint nearby intervened and apprehended the suspect. The foreign man was taken to the Pattaya Police Station to sober up before further questioning and legal proceedings. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-12 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai PM Expresses Concern Over Floods in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai Picture courtesy: NNT Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has voiced concerns over the severe flooding that has wreaked havoc in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337955-thai pm-expresses-concern-over-floods-in-chiang-rai-and-chiang-mai/

Picture courtesy: NNT Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has voiced concerns over the severe flooding that has wreaked havoc in Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai. Reports from the Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) pinpointed heavy rainfall as the primary cause, leading to flash floods affecting thousands of residents. The Prime Minister took to social media to convey her worries, stating she is keenly monitoring the situation. She emphasised the urgency of the response, with local authorities and emergency services working around the clock to provide relief to those impacted. Resources and personnel are being prioritised to ensure swift assistance. Residents in affected areas are encouraged to use the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation's hotline, 1784, to report needs or seek help. This hotline is part of an effort to streamline the response and ensure that those in urgent need can receive timely assistance. In her address, Prime Minister Shinawatra extended her support to the flood-affected communities, reassuring them that the government is fully committed to aiding the recovery process. She also expressed appreciation for the relentless efforts of the emergency services and local officials who have been instrumental in the relief operations. The ONWR has warned of potential continued rainfall in the region over the coming days, urging residents to stay vigilant and follow any advisories or evacuation orders from local authorities. They have also begun to assess the damages and are looking into long-term measures to mitigate future flooding risks. Thus far, the region has seen significant community solidarity, with local businesses and volunteers joining forces to support those displaced by the floods. Emergency shelters have been set up to accommodate families who have had to leave their homes, offering them food, water, and medical assistance. As Prime Minister Shinawatra continues to oversee the situation, citizens are reminded to stay informed through official channels and take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety. -- 2024-09-12 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Coach of Tham Luang Cave Boys Trapped Again - by typhoon floods Screenshot social media pages Ekkapol Chantawong, the coach of the "Wild Boars" football team that gained worldwide attention after their dramatic cave rescue in 2018, is now facing another life-threatening situation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337952-thai-coach-of-tham-luang-cave-boys-trapped-again -by-typhoon-floods/

Ekkapol Chantawong, the coach of the "Wild Boars" football team that gained worldwide attention after their dramatic cave rescue in 2018, is now facing another life-threatening situation. This time, he's stranded on the roof of his house due to flash floods caused by Typhoon Yagi in Mae Sai, northern Thailand. Ekkapol shared his experience with AFP on Wednesday (Sep. 11). He described how the floodwaters rose suddenly early Tuesday morning, leaving him, his girlfriend, and her aunt with no time to escape. They spent the night on the roof as the waters continued to rise. "I was scared, but I told myself to stay calm and assess the situation," Ekkapol said. Though the floodwaters have receded slightly, allowing them to access the ground floor, the strong current outside still prevents them from leaving safely. Typhoon Yagi has caused widespread destruction, bringing deadly flash floods and landslides to northern Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and Myanmar. Despite the dire circumstances, Ekkapol remains hopeful, drawing on his experience from the 2018 cave rescue. "I don't feel more pressure now. I see a way out," he noted, emphasizing the importance of staying focused and solving the problem at hand, reported Thai Newsroom. When asked if he could imagine facing another similar ordeal, Ekkapol laughed and replied, "It's hard to predict the future, but I hope I don't have to spend another night on the roof." TOP: Screenshot social media pages -- 2024-09-12 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe