webfact

Thai government officials have established a Flood Situation Command Centre to address the serious floods all across the country. The new operations center, with a central command system, has been setup to improve water management and reduce the impact of the crisis. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Phumtham Wechayachai, is leading this important task. Thai government forms flood response center to handle severe floods Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336704-thai-government-forms-flood-response-center-to-handle-severe-floods/

UPDATE Rescue Efforts Near Success in Collapsed Railway Tunnel Picture of the new temporary rescue tunnel being constructed. Rescue teams are within one metre of reaching the first of three workers trapped in the collapsed high-speed railway tunnel in Thailand. All three victims have shown signs of movement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336423-landslide-buries-workers-inside-high-speed-rail-tunnel-construction-in-nakhon-ratchasima/?do=findComment&comment=19186767

Heavy rain and flash flood warning for 51 Thailand provinces by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Marc Mintel, Unsplash The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a warning for 51 provinces in Thailand, advising residents to prepare for heavy to very heavy rainfall, flash floods, and forest runoffs. The announcement comes as a strong monsoon is expected to impact the region starting today. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336664-heavy-rain-and-flash-flood-warning-for-51-thailand-provinces/

The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a warning for 51 provinces in Thailand, advising residents to prepare for heavy to very heavy rainfall, flash floods, and forest runoffs. The announcement comes as a strong monsoon is expected to impact the region starting today. Thailand is expected to experience increased rainfall, with some areas facing heavy to very heavy downpours. The upper northern, upper northeastern, eastern, and southern western regions are particularly at risk. Residents in these areas are urged to be cautious of potential dangers, including flash floods and forest runoffs, especially in foothill regions near watercourses and low-lying areas. TMD’s announcement highlights the movement of the monsoon trough across the northern, northeastern, and upper central regions. Concurrently, a rather strong southwesterly monsoon is affecting the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. This combination is expected to result in heavy rainfall in several provinces today. The provinces likely to experience heavy to very heavy rain include Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phrae, Uttaradit, Tak, Sukhothai, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun in the north. In the northeastern region, Loei, Nong Khai, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Surin, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani are predicted to be affected. The central region will see heavy rain in Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Lopburi, Saraburi, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, and Samut Sakhon, including Bangkok and its vicinity. Heavy rain In the eastern region, Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat are on alert. The southern region will have heavy rainfall in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Ranong, Phangnga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun. Strong winds and waves are also expected in the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. Between today and tomorrow, the upper Andaman Sea will experience waves of 2 to 3 metres, with areas of thunderstorms seeing waves over 3 metres. The upper Gulf of Thailand will have waves around 2 metres, while the lower Andaman Sea will see waves of 1 to 2 metres, with thunderstorms bringing waves higher than 2 metres. Mariners in these areas are advised to exercise caution and avoid sailing in stormy conditions. Small boats in the upper Andaman Sea should remain ashore during this period. Residents are encouraged to stay updated with announcements from the Meteorological Department. Information is available on their website at http://www.tmd.go.th or via phone at 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182, available 24 hours a day, reported KhaoSod. The announcement, issued today at 5am, indicates that the TMD will release the next update at 5pm today. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Marc Mintel, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-28 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

New Rule Lets Convicts Serve Sentences Outside Thai Prisons Picture courtesy: Sanook Thailand's Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong justified a new regulation that allows convicts to be held outside traditional prison facilities. This measure, introduced by the Department of Corrections, is intended to help ease prison overcrowding in Thailand, where the inmate population of about 220,000 greatly surpasses the system's capacity of 150,000 to 160,000. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336662-new-rule-lets-convicts-serve-sentences-outside-thai-prisons/

Picture courtesy: Sanook Thailand's Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong justified a new regulation that allows convicts to be held outside traditional prison facilities. This measure, introduced by the Department of Corrections, is intended to help ease prison overcrowding in Thailand, where the inmate population of about 220,000 greatly surpasses the system's capacity of 150,000 to 160,000. The regulation, introduced under Sections 33 and 34 of the 2017 Corrections Act, allows for alternative detention, including hospitals for sick inmates. Tawee stressed that this is a practical measure for rehabilitation and career training, rather than a convenience for prisoners. In response to speculation that the regulation could favour former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, Tawee asserted that it has no connection to her. Yingluck was sentenced in absentia to five years in prison for failing to prevent corrupt rice sales and fled before the verdict. Tawee also dismissed rumours of Yingluck's plans to seek a royal pardon, stating the Justice Ministry was unaware of such developments, reported Bangkok Post. A Corrections Board, including representatives from the Office of the Attorney-General, the courts, and local officials, will review the criteria for inmates eligible for alternative detention. These guidelines do not specify how many years left on a sentence qualify an inmate, leaving each prison to assess behaviour and decide individually. Eligible candidates might include sick inmates, those over 70, or pregnant inmates. Tawee noted that specific criteria and suitable locations for alternative detention would be determined by each prison. Former Democrat leader Jurin Laksanawisit called for transparency, questioning whether those convicted of corruption, like Yingluck, would qualify. “Clarification is needed to avoid the perception of preferential treatment for certain convicts,” he said. The regulation comes amid speculation Yingluck might return to Thailand and face justice, mirroring a possible positive outlook similar to that of her brother, former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, who returned after 15 years of self-exile. -- 2024-08-28 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Digital wallet scheme may be delayed to next fiscal year by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme faces potential postponement until the next fiscal year starting October 1 if not implemented by next month, according to the Budget Bureau. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336660-digital-wallet-scheme-may-be-delayed-to-next-fiscal-year/

The 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme faces potential postponement until the next fiscal year starting October 1 if not implemented by next month, according to the Budget Bureau. Bureau Director Chalermphol Pensoot stated that the details of the cash handout policy would need to be revisited once the new Cabinet is formed. The initiative, promising 10,000 baht to up to 50 million people, is a flagship policy of the Pheu Thai Party. However, securing the necessary funding has proven challenging. Critics doubt the programme’s ability to provide the economic boost the party anticipates. Chalermphol indicated that the most needy individuals would likely be prioritised for eligibility. This group includes around 15 million people, with approximately 14 million being state welfare cardholders and the rest comprising people with disabilities. The funding for the scheme is expected to come from 122 billion baht allocated from the 2024 fiscal budget and 20 billion baht from the central budget. Although the money was initially scheduled for distribution in September, the final amount is still pending approval by the Ministry of Finance. Chalermphol reassured that the government is on track to initiate the scheme by next month, as the registration process has already been completed. “However, if the handout cannot be implemented on time, the project will be put on hold and a new budget allocation must be re-drafted if the project is to resume.” Once the 2025 fiscal budget is enacted in October, an additional 30 million registered individuals will be eligible to receive the funds. These individuals will need to be verified to prevent duplicate payments. When the system is fully operational, the funds will be distributed through digital wallets, reported Bangkok Post. ORIGINAL STORY: Digital wallet scheme may switch to cash to boost economy The Budget Bureau chief confirmed that funds from the digital wallet scheme could be distributed as cash, provided the original goal to stimulate the economy is maintained. Chalermphol Pensoot stated that the distribution of 10,000 baht through the digital wallet scheme could continue, depending on the new government’s policies. “Distributing cash instead of digital money is not an issue, as long as the original objective to stimulate the economy is maintained.” Chalermphol also indicated that the timeline for the handout remains unchanged, with no alteration to the budget calendar. The additional budget bill for fiscal 2024 is currently awaiting royal approval. The fiscal 2025 budget is progressing through the parliamentary process, with the second and third readings scheduled for September 4 to September 6. Caretaker Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat mentioned yesterday that a viable solution for the digital wallet project exists but all necessary procedures must be completed before making an official announcement. Danucha Pichayanan, Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Council, expressed uncertainty on August 19 about whether the new administration will proceed with the 500-billion-baht digital wallet handout. He stressed the importance of implementing economic support measures, particularly for low-income earners. Danucha pointed out that stimulus measures should be carefully timed and aligned with available resources. Initial measures can be introduced and then evaluated, considering the limited resources, reported Bangkok Post. New Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra addressed the issue on August 18, assuring that the government would not abandon its flagship handout. She stated that the government would “study and listen to additional options” to ensure the scheme is fiscally responsible. Her comments were in response to rumours that her father, former premier Thaksin Shinawatra, had called for the controversial handout scheme to be scrapped. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-28 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Another Landslide in Phuket! Nine Houses Buried, Residents Flee in Panic Picture courtesy: Amarin TV Another landslide has struck Phuket, burying nine houses under mud, water, and debris from the mountain with a thunderous noise like a lightning strike. Panicked residents fled for their lives, but fortunately, no one was injured. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336654-another-landslide-in-phuket-nine-houses-buried-residents-flee-in-panic/

Picture courtesy: Amarin TV Another landslide has struck Phuket, burying nine houses under mud, water, and debris from the mountain with a thunderous noise like a lightning strike. Panicked residents fled for their lives, but fortunately, no one was injured. At 5:30 a.m. on August 28, 2024, Police Lieutenant Colonel Sakon Krai-nara, Deputy Superintendent (Investigation) of Phuket City Police Station, received a report from the 191 emergency hotline about a landslide that had damaged several homes in Thep Buri Village (Ban Kuku) in Ratsada Sub-district, Mueang District. The police were asked to inspect the scene. After receiving the report, the lieutenant immediately informed Police Colonel Prateuang Pholmana, Superintendent of Phuket City Police Station. He, along with officials from the Municipal Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department of Ratsada Sub-district and staff from the Kusoldharm Foundation Phuket, rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, they found residents, who were the homeowners and occupants of the affected village, standing outside their homes amidst continuous rain that had been falling for several hours. A preliminary inspection revealed that nine two-story commercial buildings were damaged. Officers discovered that the soil at the back of the buildings was still making cracking noises. For safety reasons, the homeowners and residents were initially evacuated from the buildings as the saturated soil posed a risk of further landslides. Mrs. Kanyarat Chakrawatee, 45, a homeowner who had just moved in 13 days earlier and was still settling in, recounted, "At around 5:00 a.m., we were all sleeping downstairs since we had just moved in. I heard a loud crash, so I turned on the light and saw water flowing from the kitchen. I tried to get everyone out, but the water kept coming because it was still raining. We were waiting to have the air conditioning installed upstairs, so we hadn't moved up there yet. The upstairs room was blocked by soil, so we couldn't open the door." Mr. Nop, another homeowner, said, "Water from the mountain came crashing down, bringing soil and mud because there were no trees on the mountain. There used to be trees, but they were removed, so the soil couldn't retain water. It's been almost a year since the trees were removed. My house is at the end of the alley. It was only slightly damaged on the roof, while other houses were more severely affected. I heard a loud noise at first and thought it was a lightning strike. When I came out to look, everyone was already standing at the entrance of the village." -- 2024-08-28 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 28 August 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336648-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-28-august-2024/

Thailand's Pheu Thai Party will drop the army-backed Palang Pracharat Party from its coalition when it forms the next government, The decision comes after Pheu Thai lawmakers expressed outrage that Prawit Wongsuwon, failed to show up for a parliamentary vote to approve new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, She is now in the process of forming her cabinet and is expected to present her government's policies by the middle of next month. The Royal Thai Air Force announced yesterday its decision to purchase Gripen fighter jets from Sweden, rather than US-made F-16s. The selection was influenced by the emphasis on technology transfer and training, which the Thai military prioritizes in its procurement processes. The purchase now awaits final approval from the new defense minister and the cabinet. A professor at Thammasat University is urging the government to amend laws to allow longer alcohol-selling hours, lift the total ban on alcohol ads, reduce import tariffs, and support alcohol-related SMEs. He advocates for more flexibility in alcohol regulations, including permitting alcohol sales at hotels on religious holidays and replacing the ad ban with health warnings. He also suggests hotels should be allowed to serve alcohol 24/7, reflecting international drinking norms. Thailand's ministry for digital economy has found local authorities Were responsible for more than 6 000 leaks of personal digital information between november and the end of july, so far The Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau has arrested 11 suspects on charges related to theft of data. The department of data protection has been assigned to to educate staff on data privacy and protection. . Around the region Malaysia Opposition leader Muhyiddin Yassin pleaded not guilty to a charge of sedition yesterday, over a speech in August where he said he was not invited by the King to form the government despite claiming the majority support of MPs after the 2022 General Election. the court agreed to set bail at 5,000 ringgit and declined to issue a gag order as requested by the prosecution . Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Thundershowers 30C degrees celsius Bangkok: Sunny partly cloudy showers 33 Pattaya: rain with thundershowers 29 Phuket and the south: thundershowers 29 Hua HIn: Sunny becoming cloudy perhaps an isolated thundershower 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 2024-08-28 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Saudia adds dreamliner flights to Phuket by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of TTR Weekly Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, is set to make your travel dreams come true with its latest addition to the flight network. The airline confirmed that from December 2 it will launch flights to the exotic island of Phuket, making it the second Thai city in its roster after Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336647-saudia-adds-dreamliner-flights-to-phuket/

Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, is set to make your travel dreams come true with its latest addition to the flight network. The airline confirmed that from December 2 it will launch flights to the exotic island of Phuket, making it the second Thai city in its roster after Bangkok. This move is part of Saudia’s strategic push to expand its international reach, bringing the world closer to Saudi Arabia. Leveraging its modern fleet and competitive edge, Saudia is rolling out six weekly flights to the Thai paradise, with three each from Riyadh and Jeddah. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sandy beaches or explore the vibrant nightlife, Phuket is now just a flight away. Travellers can book their seats through Saudia’s website or mobile app, with flights being serviced by the state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. This aircraft will ensure a comfortable and luxurious journey, whether you’re departing from Riyadh or Jeddah. Flight SV850 departs Jeddah (JED) at 1.45am, landing in Phuket (HKT) at 1.45pm every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday. Return flight SV853 leaves Phuket at 11.45pm, arriving in Jeddah at 4.45am local time the next day. Flight SV852 takes off from Riyadh (RUH) at 11.25am, touching down in Phuket at 10.30pm on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Return flight SV851 departs Phuket at 3.20pm, landing in Riyadh at 7.25pm local time, reported TTR Weekly. In related news, Kazakhstan airline Air Astana announced the launch of direct flights from Astana to Phuket, with the first flight taking off on October 26. This exciting new route adds to Air Astana’s existing Almaty-Phuket service, which is also getting a boost with daily flights starting the same day. In other news, Russian airline Aeroflot resumes direct flights to popular holiday destinations in Thailand, India, and Seychelles. This news will thrill jet-setters and sun-seekers looking to escape the chill. Starting September 13, Aeroflot will kick off its twice-weekly flights from Yekaterinburg’s Koltsovo Airport to Phuket. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of TTR Weekly Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-28 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Immigration Raids Large Indian Restaurant, Arrest Several Workers Without Work Permits By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Pattaya — Chonburi Immigration authorities raided a large Indian restaurant in Pattaya and arrested several foreign workers without valid work permits. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336642-immigration-raids-large-indian-restaurant-arrest-several-workers-without-work-permits/

Pattaya — Chonburi Immigration authorities raided a large Indian restaurant in Pattaya and arrested several foreign workers without valid work permits. On August 26th, 2024, Pol. Col. Naphasapong Khositsuriyamanee, the head of Chonburi Immigration, led a team of immigration officers to inspect an Indian restaurant located in the Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. The name of the restaurant was withheld by authorities pending a further investigation. The inspection revealed that the restaurant, a three-story commercial building, allegedly employed 10 Indian cooks and 11 Myanmar servers. The employees were visibly shaken by the officials’ presence, as some of them even trembled. The authorities requested and checked the employees’ documents and found that nine of them did not have valid work permits. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-08-28 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Man Arrested for Raping 11-Year-Old Girl While Drunk Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a shocking case, a 23-year-old man from Bangkok has been arrested for allegedly raping an 11-year-old girl. The suspect, Watchara, also known as Top, lured the young girl under the pretence of taking her to see her brother, who was fishing nearby. He then sexually assaulted her, later claiming he was drunk during the incident. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336639-man-arrested-for-raping-11-year-old-girl-while-drunk/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a shocking case, a 23-year-old man from Bangkok has been arrested for allegedly raping an 11-year-old girl. The suspect, Watchara, also known as Top, lured the young girl under the pretence of taking her to see her brother, who was fishing nearby. He then sexually assaulted her, later claiming he was drunk during the incident. The arrest took place on August 26, at around 11 am. Police Major General Prasong Anamanee, along with senior officers from the Metropolitan Police Division 9, apprehended Watchara in front of a house in the Bang Khae district of Bangkok. This arrest was made based on a warrant issued on August 23. Watchara faces multiple serious charges, including raping a child under 13, taking a child under 15 for lewd purposes, and removing a child under 15 from their guardian for indecent reasons. The investigation began after the girl’s mother filed a complaint on the evening of July 22. According to her, Watchara had lived in the same area on Phetkasem Road, Bang Khae, and had coaxed her daughter, Miss A, under false pretenses. The mother reported that Watchara punched her daughter in the stomach three times before raping her. Following the assault, the girl suffered severe stomach pains. Watchara fled to a relative’s house nearby but was eventually tracked down and arrested by the police. During questioning, Watchara confessed to the crime, admitting he was drunk at the time. "I was drunk and made her take off her clothes before molesting her," he said. It was also revealed that Watchara has a criminal history, having been prosecuted for trespassing in 2020. To confirm the assault, the police have sent Miss A for a medical examination, and legal proceedings against Watchara are currently underway. "We are committed to ensuring that justice is served and that the victim receives all the necessary support and care," remarked one of the officers involved in the case. This incident has shocked the local community and highlighted the need for increased vigilance and stricter laws to protect minors from such heinous acts. -- 2024-08-28 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Kuwaiti Tourist Apologises for Obscene Act on Pattaya Balcony In a bewildering event yesterday, local students in Pattaya captured a shocking video of a foreigner engaging in inappropriate behaviour on a condominium balcony, sparking strong community reactions and prompting police intervention. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336638-kuwaiti-tourist-apologises-for-obscene-act-on-pattaya-balcony/

In a bewildering event yesterday, local students in Pattaya captured a shocking video of a foreigner engaging in inappropriate behaviour on a condominium balcony, sparking strong community reactions and prompting police intervention. At around 5:00 p.m. on August 27, a group of students from a nearby school were alarmed to spot a shirtless man disturbingly rubbing his chest and genitals against a balcony railing. The sight caused significant discomfort among the students, teachers, and nearby parents. Responding swiftly, the students reported the incident to Pattaya City Police, who immediately began an investigation, reported Adam Judd for The Pattaya News. The man, identified as a Kuwaiti national, aged between 25 and 35, on holiday, has since expressed deep remorse and apologised for his actions. He claimed ignorance, believing no one would witness his conduct. The owner of the condominium, whose property's reputation was tarnished by the now-viral video clip, also received a sincere apology from the contrite tourist. Additionally, the man issued a public apology, acknowledging the distress caused to the students and wider community. Pattaya City Police are currently utilising the video evidence provided by the students to pursue appropriate legal action against the man. They have reiterated the unacceptability of such behaviour and issued a stern warning to deter similar incidents in the future. Authorities emphasise the importance of maintaining discretion and respecting community standards to ensure a safe and harmonious environment in Pattaya, a well-known family-friendly resort destination. Residents and tourists alike are urged to co-operate in upholding the area's reputation, as the police continue their efforts to uphold public decency and safety. Source: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-08-28 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian Man Arrested for Carrying Fake Euros in Chonburi Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Police in Chonburi arrested a 29-year-old Russian man, Mr. A (pseudonym), after discovering counterfeit euro notes in his possession. The man was staying at a hotel in the Phra Tamnak area when the incident unfolded. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336637-russian-man-arrested-for-carrying-fake-euros-in-chonburi/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Police in Chonburi arrested a 29-year-old Russian man, Mr. A (pseudonym), after discovering counterfeit euro notes in his possession. The man was staying at a hotel in the Phra Tamnak area when the incident unfolded. The investigation began when a Thai man attempted to exchange a 500-euro note for Thai baht at a currency exchange booth. The staffer, suspecting foul play, used a chemical pen to verify the banknote's authenticity. Upon discovering it was fake, the staffer alerted local authorities. Police traced the counterfeit note back to the Thai man, who worked as a receptionist at the hotel. According to his statement, the Russian guest, who had been staying at the hotel for three weeks without settling his bill, had given him the fake 500-euro note. The receptionist's attempt to exchange the note had inadvertently led to the police investigation. Following this lead, police officers visited the Russian man's hotel room. There, they found six 500-euro notes and eighty 50-euro notes, all of which were counterfeit. Upon questioning, the Russian man confessed that he had brought the fake banknotes into Thailand. He revealed that a friend in Istanbul had provided him with the counterfeit money, instructing him to spend it during his stay in Thailand. This incident has raised concerns about the circulation of counterfeit currency and its implications on the Thai economy. Police are now investigating whether the suspect had managed to pass any of the fake money elsewhere and if there are others involved in this counterfeit operation. The authorities are urging businesses to remain vigilant and report any suspicious currency to help prevent further occurrences. The detained Russian man now faces legal consequences under Thai law for circulating counterfeit currency and overstaying his visa. -- 2024-08-28 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 28 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1336636-thailand-live-wednesday-28-august-2024/

Court Dismisses Petition against Election Commission Photo: Thai News Agency BANGKOK (TNA) – Thailand’s Constitutional Court on Tuesday unanimously dismissed a petition accusing the Election Commission (EC) of attempting to overthrow the democratic system of government with the King as Head of State by issuing regulations that allegedly allowed for widespread senatorial electoral fraud. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336626-court-dismisses-petition-against-election-commission/

Thailand's Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has firmly stated that she will solely decide the make-up of her cabinet. This comes amid worries that her father, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, might interfere in her choices. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336616-thai-prime-minister-says-shell-choose-cabinet-without-father’s-influence/