webfact

FILE - Phumtham Wechayachai. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath The recent appointment of Phumtham Wechayachai, a former communist insurgent, as Thailand’s new Defence Minister has sparked widespread unease among military ranks, both active and retired. This move, driven by de facto Pheu Thai leader Thaksin Shinawatra, has been met with significant disapproval within the armed forces, according to retired general and ex-senator Somchet Boonthanom. Somchet accused Thaksin of attempting to consolidate control over the military, alleging that Phumtham’s appointment was part of a broader strategy to align the military with Thaksin's personal and partisan ambitions. The defence minister’s role is pivotal in shaping military policies, and Phumtham, a close ally of Thaksin, has a controversial past that exacerbates tensions. Phumtham’s involvement with the now-defunct Communist Party of Thailand in the 1970s, which waged a guerilla war against the military, is a particularly sore point for many veterans. These soldiers, who fought against communist insurgents during the Cold War, feel deeply aggrieved by his appointment. Somchet described the decision as “stomping heavily on the hearts” of many army veterans who risked their lives in those conflicts. Somchet stated that the unease is not just historical but also practical. Many in the military see Phumtham as Thaksin’s right-hand man, likely to push a political agenda within the armed forces. This perception stems from past coups in 2006 and 2014 that saw Thaksin and his sister Yingluck Shinawatra ousted from power by military chiefs. Military coups have played a recurring role in Thailand’s political landscape, and the appointment of Phumtham could arguably fuel further instability. Somchet speculated that the military, feeling sidelined and politicised, might eventually resort to another coup to assert its independence and counterbalance Thaksin's influence. In conclusion, the decision to appoint Phumtham as defence minister has not only revived old wounds but also introduced new tensions within Thailand’s military. How this will unfold remains uncertain, but it undoubtedly adds another layer of complexity to the nation’s already intricate political dynamics. -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin Accused of Seeking Revenge on Military with Key Appointment FILE - Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has recently been accused of seeking personal revenge against military commanders following the appointment of his close associate, Phumtham Wechayachai, as the new Defence Minister. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337327-thaksin-accused-of-seeking-revenge-on-military-with-key-appointment/

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has recently been accused of seeking personal revenge against military commanders following the appointment of his close associate, Phumtham Wechayachai, as the new Defence Minister. This claim comes from Paradorn Pattanathabutr, a retired army general and former secretary-general of the National Security Council (NSC). Thaksin, a billionaire who once led Thailand, was ousted by a coup in 2006 orchestrated by then-army chief Sondhi Boonyaratkalin. Another coup in 2014, led by then-army chief-turned-Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, overthrew his sister, Yingluck Shinawatra. Given these turbulent political events, Paradorn suggests that Thaksin might have a hidden agenda, seeking retribution against the military through Phumtham’s appointment. Phumtham, a former communist insurgent, has sparked significant unrest among retired military officers. These individuals previously fought against the now-defunct Communist Party of Thailand during the Cold War, which heightens their concern about his new role. This discontent is particularly pronounced among those who view Phumtham's rise as a symbolic affront given his insurgent past. Paradorn speculates that Thaksin may use Phumtham, a trusted confidant, to exert influence over current and future military chiefs. This could potentially lead to the manipulation, promotion, or dismissal of military officers to serve Thaksin's personal interests. Such actions might politicise the military to an unprecedented degree. “Thaksin might probably be sooner or later turning professional soldiers into politicised ones only to serve his hidden goals and help him take his personal revenge,” Paradorn commented. The former NSC chief noted that military commanders might resist such political pressure, possibly leading them to consider another coup. This would resemble the previous overthrows experienced by Thaksin and Yingluck. Paradorn pointed out that Thaksin has already managed to weaken several political rivals, suggesting a pattern of seeking retribution against those who oppose him. In summary, Paradorn’s allegations paint a picture of Thaksin as a vengeful strategist, using political appointments to settle old scores with Thailand’s military establishment. Whether these claims hold true remains to be seen, but they certainly add fuel to the ever-complex tapestry of Thai political drama. -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe FILE - Picture courtesy: Thai Rath

Former US Soldier, 82, Assaulted by Drunk Thai Man in Pattaya Park Picture courtesy: Daily News An 82-year-old former American soldier was the victim of a violent assault while jogging in Pattaya Youth Center Park. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337319-former-us-soldier-82-assaulted-by-drunk-thai-man-in-pattaya-park/

An 82-year-old former American soldier was the victim of a violent assault while jogging in Pattaya Youth Center Park. The incident happened at around 10:06 p.m. on September 4, when a seemingly drunken Thai man attacked Mr. Rad, leaving him with a bloody face and a fractured left eyebrow. Pattaya City Police are collecting evidence and searching for the suspect. Mr. Rad, who enjoys regular exercise in the park, reported that the assailant was a dark-skinned Thai man aged between 30 and 40 years. The attacker struck suddenly, prompting Rad to flee and seek help from locals. Picture courtesy: Daily News Mr. Surachai Kaenthongcharoen, a 45-year-old park security officer, was alerted to the incident by a villager. Upon reaching the scene, Surachai found a tall Thai man who appeared intoxicated and was causing a disturbance. The man claimed to be from Pattaya but fled before police or rescue workers could arrive. Rad was treated promptly by rescue workers from Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Pattaya City. The police, led by Pol. Col. Nawin Thirawit, Superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station, are now conducting an active manhunt for the suspect described by Rad and Surachai, reported Daily News. The incident has raised concerns about safety in the area, with local authorities urging park-goers to remain vigilant, particularly during after-dark hours. The police have also increased patrols in the vicinity to deter similar incidents. So far, no arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing. The police have requested anyone with information related to the attack to come forward to aid in apprehending the assailant. TOP Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 5 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1337318-thailand-live-thursday-5-september-2024/

Thailand Leads Infidelity Statistics Globally File photo Ever wondered how your country fared in a worldwide study of unfaithfulness? A report recently identified the 25 countries where infidelity tends to occur most. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337290-thailand-leads-infidelity-statistics-globally/

Photo courtesy of Executive Traveller Australians planning a getaway to Thailand will soon have an extra step to complete before boarding their flight. The Thai government is introducing a mandatory electronic travel authorisation (ETA), which must be obtained ahead of travel. Aussies now need an ETA to enter Thailand Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337300-aussies-now-need-an-eta-to-enter-thailand/

American man arrested for allegedly abusing 14-year-old Thai student Picture courtesy: Khaosod A foreign language teacher, Robert Leroy K, an American national aged 41, has been arrested in Bangkok for allegedly taking a 14-year-old student to his condominium and abusing her. The arrest followed a report from the girl’s distressed mother, who claimed her daughter was supposed to be studying. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337256-american-man-arrested-for-allegedly-abusing-14-year-old-thai-student/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod A foreign language teacher, Robert Leroy K, an American national aged 41, has been arrested in Bangkok for allegedly taking a 14-year-old student to his condominium and abusing her. The arrest followed a report from the girl’s distressed mother, who claimed her daughter was supposed to be studying. On September 3, 2024, law enforcement officers from the Phetkasem Police Station, under the direction of Pol. Col. Prasong Anmanee and other senior officials, apprehended Keller at his condo in Bang Khae District. Keller faces charges including taking a child under fifteen for indecent purposes and abducting a minor from a parent or guardian. The girl's mother reported that on February 16, 2024, she had sent her daughter to school as usual. However, after school, the daughter informed her that she would be hanging out with friends. When the mother attempted to contact her daughter around 4 p.m., she received no response, despite making over 20 calls in a span of two hours. Later in the evening, the daughter returned a call, claiming to be at a shopping mall alone, which worried the mother, as her daughter never ventured far from home without permission. On March 6, 2024, the mother learned from a schoolteacher that Keller had taken her daughter to his condo. A concerned friend of the daughter had reported the incident to the teacher, leading to the discovery. According to the allegation, once in the condo, Keller acted indecently by holding hands and hugging the girl. The schoolteacher, upon receiving the report from the friend, promptly contacted the mother, who then filed an official complaint with the Phetkasem Police Station. Police tracked down Keller and arrested him at the condo on September 3, 2024. Keller denied the charges, asserting that the girl was merely there for study purposes. Keller remains in police custody at Phetkasem Police Station, where the investigation is ongoing. Authorities emphasize the seriousness of the charges and are working diligently to bring the case to a just conclusion. -- 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man surrenders after fatally shooting couple over cat poop by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A man has surrendered to the police after fatally shooting a couple after they complained about the family cat pooping outside the victims’ house. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337251-thai-man-surrenders-after-fatally-shooting-couple-over-cat-poop/

A man has surrendered to the police after fatally shooting a couple after they complained about the family cat pooping outside the victims’ house. The incident occurred yesterday in the Wat Talat Nuea community, Pathum Thani, where 32 year old Sitthichok, used a firearm to shoot 45 year old Narongwit and 54 year old Thada, while they were riding their motorcycle home. According to initial reports, the conflict stemmed from disputes over a cat defecating in front of Sitthichok’s house, leading to frequent arguments between Sitthichok’s mother and the deceased couple. Around 8pm yesterday, September 3, Sitthichok turned himself in at the Pathum Thani Police Station and confessed to the crime. He explained to Police Colonel Wiwat Asawawiboon that the deceased had verbally abused him for years, often targeting his parents as well. Sitthichok revealed that he had purchased the gun online for 40,000 baht (US$1,170). The final altercation began when Narongwit, riding his motorcycle, passed by and questioned Sitthichok aggressively. Feeling provoked, Sitthichok waited for Narongwit to return with Thada and then shot them. Sitthichok claimed he could not remember the number of shots fired. “The deceased had been insulting me and my parents for a long time. It was mostly general insults, but it had been going on since I can remember. “I bought the gun online for 40,000 baht. On the day of the incident, Narongwit asked me why I was looking at him. I went inside, waited for him to return with his wife, and then shot them. I can’t recall how many times I fired.” Police Colonel Wiwat confirmed that Sitthichok admitted to all charges. The weapon used in the crime was later disposed of in the Theppathum River, and officers are set to search the area for evidence. Sitthichok faces charges of premeditated murder and violations of the Firearms Act. Sitthichok’s sister, 36 year old Kanchana, provided additional context, stating that the deceased often complained about the narrow entrance to their home. She mentioned that the dead couple would frequently complain when passing by their house, which added to the tension, reported KhaoSod. “The deceased constantly complained about the narrow entrance when they had to pass by our house. Instead of being considerate neighbours, they were always nitpicking. “My brother, who is usually quiet, was likely infuriated by their continuous insults towards our parents. The argument about the cat defecating in front of our house yesterday pushed him over the edge.” by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Disaster Aid Australia and Thailand mobilize to assist northern Thailand amid devastating floods By Victor Wong The remains of the Pang Kha Bridge in Village 8, Tab Tao Subdistrict, after it was swept away by the surging Hong River, cutting off access between Ngaw and Tab Tao Subdistricts. CHIANGRAI, Thailand – In the wake of catastrophic floods that have ravaged several provinces in northern Thailand, Disaster Aid Australia, in collaboration with Disaster Aid Thailand, has swiftly responded to provide much-needed relief to the affected communities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337249-disaster-aid-australia-and-thailand-mobilize-to-assist-northern-thailand/

The remains of the Pang Kha Bridge in Village 8, Tab Tao Subdistrict, after it was swept away by the surging Hong River, cutting off access between Ngaw and Tab Tao Subdistricts. By Victor Wong CHIANGRAI, Thailand – In the wake of catastrophic floods that have ravaged several provinces in northern Thailand, Disaster Aid Australia, in collaboration with Disaster Aid Thailand, has swiftly responded to provide much-needed relief to the affected communities. The floods, which have destroyed lives and property, left tens of thousands of people stranded with limited access to food and clean water. The Australian team, led by Rotarians Brian Ashworth and Wendy De Luca, joined forces with the Thai team, including Capt. Dol Adinan, Chairman of Disaster Aid Thailand (DAT), Past President of the Rotary Club of Plutaluang, along with Peerasan Wongsri, President of the Rotary Club of Jomtien-Pattaya and Tom Keightley, President of the Rotary Club of Pattaya-Banglamung. The team arrived in the disaster-stricken area on September 1, 2024, to deliver critical aid to flood victims in the Tab Tao, Wiang, and San Sai Ngam Subdistricts of Thoeng District, as well as in Chiang Khong and Wiang Kaen Districts of Chiang Rai Province. Brian Ashworth and Wendy De Luca from Disaster Aid Australia together with Capt. Dol Adinan and Peerasan Wongsri are greeted by members of the Rotary Club of Nakorn Thoeng at Mae Fah Luang International Airport, ready to deliver essential aid to flood-stricken communities. Disaster Aid International, the global humanitarian organization behind this mission, operates under the umbrella of Rotary International. It is dedicated to providing support to communities affected by natural disasters worldwide. Founded by Mr Ashworth in Australia, Disaster Aid International is renowned for deploying Sky Hydrant water filters, a key component of the Ultrafiltration Community Water Supply System. These filters are essential in disaster relief, as they provide immediate access to clean water, helping to prevent the spread of waterborne diseases and alleviate water scarcity. The system operates without the need for electricity and can purify water from heavily contaminated sources, producing water that meets World Health Organization standards. Full story: Pattaya Mail -- 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Police Arrest Thai Man for Robbing Russian Tourist to Fund Gambling Habit By Aim Tanakorn A desperate young Thai man was arrested in Pattaya after allegedly robbing a female Russian tourist to fund his gambling addiction. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337247-pattaya-police-arrest-thai-man-for-robbing-russian-tourist-to-fund-gambling-habit/

A desperate young Thai man was arrested in Pattaya after allegedly robbing a female Russian tourist to fund his gambling addiction. At 9:00 PM on September 2nd, 2024, Pattaya Tourist Police apprehended a theft suspect, identified as 21-year-old Mr. Rungtawan Sakaew, in front of a rental room along Pattaya-Naklua Road. Mr. Rungtawan was suspected of robbing a Russian tourist and was found in possession of the stolen item, including a gold-colored Infinix mobile phone valued at around 15,000 baht. According to a police report, a Russian woman, 34-year-old Ms. Aisylu (surname withheld by police), reported to Banglamung Police around 10:30 AM on September 2nd that she was robbed near an intersection by the Blind School in Soi Naklua 16. The perpetrator, a Thai male teenager, approached her, pretending to be friendly, and asked how long she had been in Thailand. The alleged thief then offered to show her around Pattaya to distract her before snatching her mobile phone and fleeing the scene. Following the robbery, Ms. Aisylu chased after the suspect and sought help from local residents. A Good Samaritan then assisted her in reporting the crime to the Banglamung Police Station. Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe By Aim Tanakorn

Anutin confident in government's cannabis approval File photo Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, has expressed strong confidence that Thailand's new government will back the party’s pro-cannabis stance. This marks a significant progression of the green revolution that gained momentum under former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337246-anutin-confident-in-governments-cannabis-approval/

File photo Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of Thailand's Bhumjaithai Party, has expressed strong confidence that Thailand's new government will back the party’s pro-cannabis stance. This marks a significant progression of the green revolution that gained momentum under former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. In July, an agreement was forged between Srettha and Anutin to advance a draft bill aiming to regulate cannabis for medical and research uses—a pivot from the previous stance of reclassifying cannabis as a narcotic. Anutin is keen to ensure that this cannabis control bill becomes one of the six key policies his party submits to the ruling Pheu Thai Party. These policies will soon form part of the coalition’s agenda to be presented in Parliament. During discussions, Anutin, 57, emphasized the goal of advancing Thai herbal research and development, positioning cannabis as a central focus. When questioned about potential opposition from the Democrat Party, Anutin remained optimistic, implying that even if they attempt to block the bill, they might not have the necessary influence to do so. “This new Democrat team isn’t the same as the previous one," Anutin noted confidently. "I believe in Democrat leader Chalermchai Sri-on’s team spirit and his apparent understanding of the public’s needs.” In relation to the government's plan to push for an entertainment complex project, including a legal casino, Anutin stated that Bhumjaithai, as a key coalition partner, would support the project provided it isn’t used to benefit specific groups unfairly. “I’m not worried about this project because we have an ethical code with a broad scope to follow, and everyone seems to be extra careful about respecting that code now,” he added. Other Bhumjaithai policies include decentralisation, equal access to education, improved water management, and clean energy, according to reports by the Bangkok Post. As the political landscape unfolds, Anutin’s firm stance and proactive policies highlight his commitment to driving significant changes in Thailand, particularly in the realm of cannabis regulation. -- 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Corrections Department Confirms 24-Hour Guard for Thaksin at Police Hospital Picture courtesy: Daily News Thailand’s Corrections Department has confirmed round-the-clock surveillance for former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who received treatment at the Police General Hospital. This comes in response to allegations made by Pol. Gen. Sereepisuth Temiyawes, leader of the Seri Ruam Thai Party, about lax security protocols. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337244-corrections-department-confirms-24-hour-guard-for-thaksin-at-police-hospital/

Thailand’s Corrections Department has confirmed round-the-clock surveillance for former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who received treatment at the Police General Hospital. This comes in response to allegations made by Pol. Gen. Sereepisuth Temiyawes, leader of the Seri Ruam Thai Party, about lax security protocols. Sereepisuth recently revealed that he had visited Thaksin twice during his hospital stay on the 14th floor of the 88th Anniversary Maha Bhumibol Adulyadej Building, noting that no prison officers were stationed outside Thaksin's room during his visits on November 14, 2023, and February 10, 2024. He expressed concerns to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), demanding accountability from the Justice Minister, Director-General of the Department of Corrections, and the Commander of Bangkok Special Prison. Responding to these claims, Sahakon Petcharin, Director-General of the Department of Corrections, denied any unauthorized visits by Sereepisuth. Justice Minister Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong reiterated the Ministry's willingness to consider any information provided. Dr. Sompop Sangkutkaew, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Corrections, affirmed the adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for controlling prisoners, adding that there is evidence to support this. "Four prison officers from Bangkok Special Prison are taking turns supervising Thaksin 24 hours a day, with two on duty in the morning and two in the evening," he stated. This setup aligns with the guideline requiring two officers per prisoner for effective oversight. Dr. Sompop further clarified that the Department of Corrections provides regular updates on prisoner supervision to their superiors. However, the method of reporting, such as photographs and documentation, is subject to internal policies of individual prisons rather than a centralized mandate from the Department of Corrections. In light of these developments, Dr. Sompop expressed readiness to cooperate fully with any investigative procedures initiated by the NACC. He emphasized the department's commitment to transparency and adherence to legal processes. The Corrections Department maintains that they have thoroughly followed all protocols, ensuring the security and supervision of Thaksin while he remains in hospital care. As the investigation continues, all involved parties remain under scrutiny to ensure compliance with established regulations. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Arrest Warrant Issued for Indian Man For Assaulting 14-Year-Old Girl Picture courtesy: Daily News Police in Nong Prue have issued an arrest warrant for an elderly Indian man accused of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl, resulting in her pregnancy, and compelling her to undergo an abortion. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337240-arrest-warrant-issued-for-indian-man-for-assaulting-14-year-old-girl/

Police in Nong Prue have issued an arrest warrant for an elderly Indian man accused of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl, resulting in her pregnancy, and compelling her to undergo an abortion. The tragic events were reported by a 34-year-old woman, known pseudonymously as Ms. Iw, who accompanied her daughter to Nong Prue Police Station on August 27 to file a criminal complaint. According to the report, an elderly Indian man had assaulted her daughter, leading to her pregnancy. The man then allegedly forced them to terminate the pregnancy at a Bangkok clinic by using financial pressure. Despite desperate pleas to keep the baby, clinic staff responded harshly, causing significant trauma to the family. Police Colonel Tawee Kutkaelang, Chief of Nong Prue Police Station, confirmed on September 3 that the Pattaya Provincial Court issued an arrest warrant on September 2, 2024, for Mr. Karamveer Singh, 60, an Indian national. The warrant, No. 473/2567, charges Singh with raping a minor under the age of 15, regardless of the girl's consent and without being married to her. Investigation teams have been mobilised to gather evidence and track down the suspect. Colonel Tawee emphasised the police's commitment to resolving the case, stating that the officers are working diligently to ensure justice is served. Initially, the victim’s family feared their lack of financial resources would prevent them from receiving justice against a wealthy foreign national. Their concerns were alleviated by the proactive steps taken by the police. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Pushes Forward as a HUB for the Film Industry and to Become a City of Film By Adam Judd Pattaya– On September 2nd, 2024, The Tourist Authority of Thailand (TAT) Pattaya branch and Pattaya City hosted a large group meeting at a local hotel to drive Pattaya towards becoming the what organizers call a creative city in film. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337238-pattaya-pushes-forward-as-a-hub-for-the-film-industry-and-to-become-a-city-of-film/

Pattaya– On September 2nd, 2024, The Tourist Authority of Thailand (TAT) Pattaya branch and Pattaya City hosted a large group meeting at a local hotel to drive Pattaya towards becoming the what organizers call a creative city in film. The meeting was designed to report and present the results of various activities promoting film, aligning with UNESCO guidelines for 2024. After discussing the achievements and suggestions, the attendees assigned relevant agencies to drive film-related activities for the upcoming year of 2025. This initiative is part of Pattaya’s ongoing efforts to enhance its movie and film industry and drive tourism. By Adam Judd Source: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 4 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337235-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-4-september-2024/