webfact

Bangkok moonshine death toll rises to 4, 28 in critical condition Photo of Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon The death toll from moonshine consumption in Bangkok has risen to four as of today, with 28 other victims remaining in serious condition. A further investigation into the sources of the moonshine led to the arrest of two Thai men yesterday, August 26. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336574-bangkok-moonshine-death-toll-rises-to-4-28-in-critical-condition/

The death toll from moonshine consumption in Bangkok has risen to four as of today, with 28 other victims remaining in serious condition. A further investigation into the sources of the moonshine led to the arrest of two Thai men yesterday, August 26. The issue came to light after multiple residents in the Khlong Sam Wa, Min Buri, and Nong Chok districts of Bangkok were admitted to hospitals with high levels of acid in their blood. The symptoms they exhibited included dizziness, difficulty breathing, kidney failure, blurred vision, seizures, and unconsciousness. Each victim had a history of drinking homemade alcohol, known as Ya Dong in Thai, which they bought from a stall near their homes. An increasing number of patients with the same symptoms were admitted to nine hospitals in the area and nearby. There are currently a total of 31 victims, four of whom have died. The remaining 28 patients are still hospitalised, with 14 in intensive care units. One of the victims has lost their vision while others are suffering from blurred vision. The medical team has not yet confirmed whether they will be able to regain their sight. Medical workers and relevant officials later discovered high levels of methyl alcohol in the homemade alcohol that each victim consumed. Shop owner apologises Officers from Bang Chan Police Station tracked down the source of the alcohol and managed to arrest two brothers, 46 year old Surasak and 44 year old Surachai, for illegally producing alcohol at their factory in Soi Kanchana 25 in the Ratchathewi district of Bangkok yesterday. According to a report by ThaiRath, alcohol distillation typically produces a small amount of methanol, not exceeding 1,000 parts per million (ppm). However, the alcohol produced by the two suspects had a methanol level exceeding 100,000 ppm. The suspects confessed that they had been producing alcohol for about a year using a formula they found online. They then distributed their alcohol to local Ya Dong stalls, where each shop mixed the alcohol with various herbs before selling it to their customers. The suspects admitted to mixing methyl alcohol with water and bought the methyl alcohol from a factory in the Lat Krabang district of Bangkok. The police plan to summon the owners of 18 local Ya Dong shops for questioning. One of the owners, Phatrasa Areejitsooksiri, was summoned yesterday, August 26. Phatrasa issued an apology and insisted that she did not know the alcohol from Surasak and Surachai would be dangerous to her customers. According to Phatrasa, her family has been selling Ya Dong for more than 30 years. She previously bought the base alcohol for her Ya Dong from a trustworthy source but later switched to Surasak and Surachai’s shop because they were friends of her husband. Surasak and Surachai urged Phatrasa to support them. Phatrasa found that the taste of their alcohol was similar to that of her previous supplier and decided to support her husband’s friends. Phatrasa said everything was normal until some of her customers informed her that the taste of the alcohol changed, which she agreed with. She asked the two about the changes, and they promised to resolve the issue. She did not expect that her Ya Dong would cause deaths. Surasak and Surachai have been detained at the Min Buri Provincial Court since yesterday. They were charged under Section 153 of the Excise Tax Act for producing alcohol without permission. The penalty is imprisonment for up to six months and a fine of 5,000 baht or both. The two face additional penalties for selling illegal alcohol, which is punishable by imprisonment for up to one year, a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or both, according to Section 155 of the Excise Tax Act. Officials raided the illegal alcohol factory of the two suspects. | Photo via PPTV HD Surasak and Surachai | Photo via Nation Ya Dong shop owner, Phatrasa Areejitsooksiri. | Photo via Matichon ORIGINAL STORY: Fake alcohol in Bangkok causes widespread methanol poisoning A cluster of severe methanol poisoning cases has emerged in Bangkok after 21 individuals fell ill after consuming counterfeit alcoholic beverages, leading to one death and several others in critical condition. The incident began when patients started showing symptoms of severe acidosis from drinking fake alcohol containing methanol. The products were traced to two shops located in Soi Hathairat and Khlong Sam Wa. Symptoms in affected individuals started appearing on August 22. The Khlong Sam Wa District Office has since issued a public warning yesterday, August 24, urging those who have consumed alcohol, herbal liquor, or herbal liquor tonics and are experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, blurred vision, or vomiting, to seek medical attention immediately. The warning specifically targeted residents in the Hathairat Road, Sam Wa Road, and Charoen Phatthana Road areas, as well as the surrounding regions within Khlong Sam Wa and Min Buri districts. The warning came after multiple cases of methanol intoxication were reported, with one fatality and several others in a coma. Patients were receiving treatment at Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital and other nearby medical facilities. Yesterday, August 24, Amporn Benjapolpitak, Director-General of the Department of Medical Services at the Ministry of Public Health, confirmed the reports from Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital, revealing that all 21 patients were Thai men aged between 30 and 45, except for one individual who was 69 years old. Some of these patients are undergoing acute dialysis, and if their kidneys fail to recover, they may require lifelong dialysis. There is also a risk of liver failure. Preliminary data shows that several patients are experiencing blurred vision and seeing white, diffused lights. Seven individuals have been confirmed to be blind, reported KhaoSod. Health officials are conducting a thorough investigation to trace the source of the counterfeit alcohol and are collaborating with law enforcement to hold the responsible parties accountable. Public health campaigns are also being launched to educate people about the dangers of consuming unregulated alcohol and the signs of methanol poisoning. Photo of Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-27 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourist police crack down on illegal Chinese tour operations and guides By Pattaya Mail National Tourist Police apprehend Mr Hao, a Chinese national at the Four Regions Floating Market for operating an illegal tour guide service, part of ongoing efforts to enforce tourism regulations. PATTAYA, Thailand – In a determined effort to clamp down on illegal tour operations, the National Tourist Police, led by Pol. Col. Piyapong Raksa, Deputy Superintendent of the Tourist Police Division, conducted a targeted investigation into unauthorized tour businesses and foreign nationals working illegally as tour guides. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336569-tourist-police-crack-down-on-illegal-chinese-tour-operations-and-guides/

National Tourist Police apprehend Mr Hao, a Chinese national at the Four Regions Floating Market for operating an illegal tour guide service, part of ongoing efforts to enforce tourism regulations. PATTAYA, Thailand – In a determined effort to clamp down on illegal tour operations, the National Tourist Police, led by Pol. Col. Piyapong Raksa, Deputy Superintendent of the Tourist Police Division, conducted a targeted investigation into unauthorized tour businesses and foreign nationals working illegally as tour guides. This operation is part of an ongoing campaign to ensure compliance with the 2008 Tourism Business and Guide Act, as amended in 2016. The latest operation on August 25, led to the arrest of Mr Hao (surname withheld), a 41-year-old Chinese national, at the popular Four Regions Floating Market on Sukhumvit Road. Mr Hao was found driving a grey Honda CR-V with three foreign tourists on board. After parking, he proceeded to escort the tourists to the ticketing area to purchase tickets for tours and shopping. Upon further investigation, authorities discovered several receipts for various tourist attractions in Mr Hao’s possession. His actions clearly indicated that he was operating as a tour guide, a profession reserved exclusively for Thai nationals under the Ministry of Labour’s regulations. By Pattaya Mail Full story: PATTAYA MAIL 2024-08-27 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok could be submerged in seven years warns economist by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A Thai economist warned that Bangkok could be submerged by the sea within the next seven to eight years. The government has been urged to take immediate action to prevent significant economic and social damage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336568-bangkok-could-be-submerged-in-seven-years-warns-economist/

A Thai economist warned that Bangkok could be submerged by the sea within the next seven to eight years. The government has been urged to take immediate action to prevent significant economic and social damage. Anusorn Thammajai, Dean of the Faculty of Economics at the University of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and former member of the National Research Council of Thailand highlighted in a recent discussion the escalating impact of natural disasters on the quality of life and the economy. He pointed out that issues such as flash floods, global warming, and severe climate fluctuations are becoming increasingly problematic. Research on the La Niña phenomenon in Thailand indicates that it could last for nine to 12 months, leading to lower temperatures and a potential increase in rainfall up to 14 billion cubic metres. This could severely damage the agricultural sector in many areas, causing both droughts and heavy floods. Anusorn stressed that if the government allows the recurrent problems of floods and droughts, combined with over four months of air pollution annually, to continue, the economic and quality of life impacts will worsen. Anusorn mentioned a Greenpeace study warning that in the next seven to eight years, Bangkok might submerge under the sea, leading to severe economic and social damage if preventive measures are not taken seriously now. The intertwining of the economy and the environment is becoming increasingly significant. Expressing concern, he noted that Bangkok could be underwater in the future, causing extensive damage to infrastructure and large-scale construction projects by both the government and private sector. Without serious study on Bangkok’s subsidence and the rising sea levels, and without significant investment to prevent Bangkok and its metropolitan area from submerging, the city faces a dire future. According to the Greenpeace study, if over 80% of Bangkok is submerged, the economic damage could be estimated at 18.6 trillion baht, affecting over 10.45 million people. Solutions To address this looming crisis, Anusorn proposed six urgent policies: constructing water barriers, elevating coastal roads, which are large-scale projects requiring substantial budget planning from the government; and planting mangrove forests to act as buffer zones to absorb water and mitigate the impact of sea waves. Planting mangroves along areas from Bang Khun Thian, Samut Songkhram, Samut Sakhon, to Samut Prakan would restore nature and also serve as tourist attractions. Additionally, he suggested re-organising coastal land use, decentralising investment to regional areas, shifting to renewable energy, and studying the potential relocation of the capital. The policy of moving the capital, akin to Jakarta, should be seriously considered. He urged that the new government must start investing in preventing Bangkok and its metropolitan area from sinking under the sea, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-27 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

African travellers must register for health pass to combat mpox by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English In addition to decisions regarding which groups of individuals in the country should receive the mpox (monkeypox) vaccine, Thailand is stepping up its fight against the spread of mpox with new travel regulations aimed at passengers arriving from Africa. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336564-african-travellers-must-register-for-health-pass-to-combat-mpox/

In addition to decisions regarding which groups of individuals in the country should receive the mpox (monkeypox) vaccine, Thailand is stepping up its fight against the spread of mpox with new travel regulations aimed at passengers arriving from Africa. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) and the Division of International Disease Control and Quarantine under the Ministry of Public Health jointly unveiled on August 23 new international guidelines to bolster Thailand’s surveillance against mpox. The initiative, driven by concerns over the rising mpox cases, aims to tighten control over passengers coming from high-risk regions. This robust system is a product of collaboration among airline operators, Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited, the International Air Transport Association, Thai Airways Ground Customer Services Co., Ltd., and Phuket International Airport. Their collective effort focuses on establishing stringent screening measures for travellers from areas with elevated mpox infection rates, notably those in Africa. CAAT and the Division have been vigilant since the mpox outbreak, conducting thorough risk assessments and implementing situation-based controls. Their findings have shown that high-infection regions for mpox overlap with areas affected by Yellow Fever in Africa, prompting heightened surveillance of passengers arriving on direct flights from these locations. To enhance their containment strategy, officials now require airlines to ensure that passengers from these risk zones register with the Thai Health Pass system before entering the country. This system meticulously logs entry and exit details, providing a crucial tool for tracing and managing potential cases. For those who haven’t registered before departure, the system allows for on-the-spot registration upon arrival at Thai airports. In preparation, a comprehensive rehearsal was conducted at Suvarnabhumi and Phuket airports on August 22 to ensure all airlines were informed and ready to implement these measures immediately. The decision follows a recent incident where a European man, who travelled from an African nation, arrived in Thailand on August 22, underscoring the urgency of these precautions. The situation will be closely monitored, with measures adjusted as necessary, reported KhaoSod English. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English

Thai Air Force Poised to Select Swedish Gripen Jet File: Saab JAS 39 Gripen. Courtesy: Wikipedia The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has neared a crucial decision to upgrade its fleet, with indications suggesting a preference for the Swedish-made Gripen fighter jet. According to RTAF commander Air Chief Marshal Panpakdee Pattanakul’s ann Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336562-thai-air-force-poised-to-select-swedish-gripen-jet/

File: Saab JAS 39 Gripen. Courtesy: Wikipedia The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has neared a crucial decision to upgrade its fleet, with indications suggesting a preference for the Swedish-made Gripen fighter jet. According to RTAF commander Air Chief Marshal Panpakdee Pattanakul’s announcement on Monday, a final decision is anticipated by the end of the week. Two fighter jets are under consideration: Sweden’s Gripen E and America’s F-16 Block 70. Saab AB, the Gripen’s manufacturer, and Lockheed Martin, producer of the F-16, have both submitted their final proposals, meeting the Thai government's offset policy requirements, according to Bangkok Post. To ensure a meticulous evaluation, the RTAF has set up two panels to scrutinise the proposals. These panels’ assessments will guide the final decision, ACM Panpakdee stated. Despite the official process not yet culminating, sources indicate a strong lean towards the Gripen. The main procurement committee reportedly favours the Swedish jet. Earlier assessments, conducted by the RTAF’s procurement committee in July, highlighted the Gripen as the most suitable option based on the air force's strategic needs. One significant factor driving this preference is the comprehensive offset policy offered by Saab AB. This includes access to Saab’s tactical data link technology, which is highly valued by the RTAF for future integration. The air force has plans to develop its own version of this technology, named Link T. Additionally, the Swedish offer includes a free upgrade of the RTAF’s 340 AEW air security surveillance radar system. This upgrade is valued at approximately five billion baht, presenting a notable bonus in favour of the Gripen. As the RTAF awaits the new cabinet's approval of its selection, there is optimism that the forthcoming decision will align with the air force's long-term strategic objectives. This major procurement will likely bolster Thailand’s defence capabilities significantly. -- 2024-08-27 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Sa Kaeo deputy district chief faces probe after alleged assault by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A deputy district chief in Sa Kaeo province has been reassigned and is now subject to disciplinary and criminal investigations following allegations of assault against a restaurant employee. The Ministry of Interior is dedicated to ensuring justice and safeguarding the public’s welfare. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336560-sa-kaeo-deputy-district-chief-faces-probe-after-alleged-assault/

A deputy district chief in Sa Kaeo province has been reassigned and is now subject to disciplinary and criminal investigations following allegations of assault against a restaurant employee. The Ministry of Interior is dedicated to ensuring justice and safeguarding the public’s welfare. The Ministry of Interior promptly responded to reports of a deputy district chief brandishing a firearm and physically assaulting an employee at Matador Restaurant & Café in Sa Kaeo province. Triasulee Traisaranakul, Secretary to the Minister of Interior, stated that Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, instructed the Sa Kaeo governor to expedite a fact-finding investigation. If the official is found guilty, severe disciplinary and criminal penalties will follow. “Given the lack of detailed information on the incident, Anutin mandated that the Sa Kaeo governor conduct a thorough investigation and disclose the facts to the public. If wrongdoing is confirmed, the official will face both disciplinary action and criminal prosecution without exception.” Anutin reiterated the Ministry of Interior’s fundamental responsibility to alleviate suffering and enhance the public’s well-being, not to abuse its power. Any misuse of authority to harm citizens will be met with the harshest penalties. Initial reports indicate that the incident took place around 11pm on August 23. The deputy district chief of Watthana Nakhon, currently assigned to the provincial administrative office in Sa Kaeo, allegedly committed the assault at Matador Restaurant & Café in the city of Sa Kaeo. A preliminary investigation has been launched by Sa Kaeo province, and a disciplinary committee has been established to examine the facts and take appropriate action against the perpetrator. During the investigation, Deputy Governor Chaonaet Yimprasert will temporarily replace the Sa Kaeo governor. The province has issued Order No. 2388/2024, effective today, which transfers the accused to Kok Sung district, Sa Kaeo province, pending the outcome of the investigation, reported KhaoSod. The injured party has filed a complaint with the Sa Kaeo City Police Station, and the province is committed to closely monitoring the progress of the criminal case. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-27 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Ashton Asoke condo finds a lifeline – just in the nick of time! by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of The Standard The troubled Ashton Asoke condominium project, mired in legal battles for over a year, may just have found a lifeline. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is considering a retroactive construction permit application, thanks to a new interpretation from the Council of State. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336558-ashton-asoke-condo-finds-a-lifeline-–-just-in-the-nick-of-time/

Picture courtesy of The Standard The troubled Ashton Asoke condominium project, mired in legal battles for over a year, may just have found a lifeline. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is considering a retroactive construction permit application, thanks to a new interpretation from the Council of State. This latest twist could spell relief for the tenants and the luxury high-rise, which has been teetering on the brink of partial demolition. Bangkok Deputy Governor Wisanu Subsompon broke the news yesterday, shedding light on the council’s latest move. The BMA had turned to the Council of State for advice after the Supreme Administrative Court’s ruling last year invalidated the condo’s construction permit. The court ruled that the building’s main entrance didn’t meet the required width, throwing the project into chaos. To avoid the prospect of demolishing part of the building and to comply with the court’s decision, the BMA sought recommendations. Wisanu explained that the council concluded the permit’s revocation didn’t completely annul the original permit. This means the condo, in a prime spot near Sukhumvit and Asoke Montri roads, technically remains without a valid permit. In a bid to sidestep demolition, the BMA is now set to instruct the condo’s owner to re-apply for the permit retroactively. This would remedy the situation without the need for drastic measures. The revocation of the permit had cast the condo’s construction in an illegal light. The BMA had previously hinted that the developer, Ananda MF Asia Asoke Co, could re-apply for the permit within a set period. Meanwhile, residents and tenants are weighing up legal action against the developer for damages. Permit issue Wisanu also revealed that the council believes the Buildings Control Act might not be strictly enforced to bar tenant access to the condo while the permit issue is being resolved. “The council’s opinion gives us a way forward without causing undue hardship to the residents.” The situation has placed significant stress on tenants, who have been in a state of uncertainty regarding the future of their homes. One tenant expressed frustration over the prolonged legal battle and the potential financial implications. “We just want clarity and a solution that doesn’t involve losing our homes.” The BMA’s next steps will be crucial in resolving the matter, as the council’s interpretation provides a legal framework for moving forward. However, the actual implementation of these recommendations will require careful coordination and communication with all parties involved. The Ashton Asoke condo, located on Asoke Road, remains a focal point in this legal saga, as stakeholders await the BMA’s actions following the council’s guidance. This potential resolution comes as a relief to many, but it also highlights the complex interplay between urban development, legal regulations, and the rights of property owners and tenants. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of adherence to construction laws and the potential consequences of oversight. The coming weeks will be critical for the BMA and Ananda MF Asia Asoke Co as they work to navigate the legal and regulatory landscape to bring the Ashton Asoke project into compliance while addressing the concerns of its residents, reported Bangkok Post. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of The Standard Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-27 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

School Dormitory Horror: Six Boys Arrested for Rape of Two Girls Picture courtesy: Thai Rath A disturbing incident has emerged from a school in Kanchanaburi province, where six schoolboys allegedly raped and blackmailed two 13-year-old girls in the school’s athlete dormitory. Both the school and police are now deeply involved in the investigation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336556-school-dormitory-horror-six-boys-arrested-for-rape-of-two-girls/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath A disturbing incident has emerged from a school in Kanchanaburi province, where six schoolboys allegedly raped and blackmailed two 13-year-old girls in the school’s athlete dormitory. Both the school and police are now deeply involved in the investigation. The father of one of the victims, seeking justice for his daughter, reported that the assault occurred in the afternoon of August 23. The young girls were tricked into meeting the boys at the dormitory. The attackers recorded their reprehensible acts, using the footage to blackmail the victims, threatening to release it. Having learned about the assault from his daughter on August 24, the father wasted no time contacting the police and sharing the ordeal with the non-profit organisation Saimai Survive. This prompted swift action from law enforcement. Ekkephop Leuangprasert, founder of Saimai Survive, has been closely monitoring the situation. The police revealed the gang involved boys as young as 11 and as old as 15. Specialists and officers are set to question the accused. Interestingly, the school's football coach provided a controversial defence of the boys, claiming that CCTV footage showed the girls entering the dormitory willingly. He argued that no force or threats were visible and pointed out that other students in the dormitory reported no commotion during the alleged time of the assault. Despite these claims, the school authorities are taking the allegations seriously. The Kanchanaburi Provincial Educational Service Office has established a special committee to investigate. The investigation is expected to conclude within a week. In the interim, the school director has been temporarily transferred, and the dormitory may be removed. The affected girls have been granted three days off from school, and psychological support is being arranged. The case has sparked widespread concern, highlighting the urgent need for strong protective measures for students within educational institutions. -- 2024-08-27 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Old Thai Coins May Be Worth Millions; Collectors Urged to Check FILE - Courtesy: Intergold Collectors of old Thai coins are in for a potential windfall as certain coins, including 1 baht, 5 baht, and 10 baht coins from specific years, c Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336554-old-thai-coins-may-be-worth-millions-collectors-urged-to-check/

FILE - Courtesy: Intergold Collectors of old Thai coins are in for a potential windfall as certain coins, including 1 baht, 5 baht, and 10 baht coins from specific years, could be worth significant amounts of money, sometimes even reaching millions of baht. Yesterday, a TikTok user shared valuable information, highlighting the need for collectors and the general public to scrutinise their collections. In the video, the user revealed that a 1 baht coin from 1986 (2529 B.E.) can fetch between 200 and 500 baht. This revelation has set off a wave of excitement amongst collectors. Delving deeper into the details, the video further explained that 5 baht coins from 1997 are particularly sought after, with collectors willing to pay between 4,000 and 7,000 baht. However, the user advised caution as some coins have been tampered with by altering the numeral ‘5’ to a ‘4’ through filing. It's crucial to inspect coins closely for any signs of such modifications to determine their authenticity. Equally intriguing is the demand for 10 baht coins from 1988. With only 62,000 of these coins minted, they command prices ranging from 700 to 1,000 baht. Yet, the rarest and most valuable are the 10 baht coins from 1990. These coveted coins can fetch an astounding 500,000 to 1 million baht due to their rarity, with only 100 coins minted and just over ten known to exist in Thailand. There is also a 10 baht coin from 1998, but its value is relatively modest, priced between 50 and 500 baht. The TikTok user reiterated the importance of vigilance, urging collectors to examine their coins meticulously for any alterations that could affect their value. This recent surge in interest underscores the hidden treasures that might be lying unnoticed in coin collections across the country. -- 2024-08-27 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Tuesday 27 August 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336552-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-27-august-2024/

Activists have praised a Narathiwat court's decision to hear a lawsuit against seven officials accused of being responsible for a 2004 massacre that left 85 dead. Mr. Kanavee, an MP from the Fair Party, emphasized the importance of acknowledging past atrocities to shape the country's global image. He urged the government to demonstrate clear political will to address unrest in the south and called for constructive dialogue to achieve lasting peace in Pattani. Thailand's Secretary for Foreign Affairs oversaw a government donation of nine million baht yesterday to support humanitarian aid for the Myanmar crisis. This pledge follows the recent 57th ASEAN meeting in Vientiane. Since 2021, Thailand has also contributed US$450,000 to various international organizations, including UN agencies and the International Committee of the Red Cross. Local authorities in Phuket are seeking expert advice to survey a mountainous area where deadly landslides claimed 13 lives and injured 19 others last week. The landslides, which sent massive boulders tumbling down the mountain, affected the Rawai and Chalong areas. Initial investigations suggest that land subsidence near the base of a temple on the hill may have triggered the disaster. Authorities aim to determine the cause and implement measures to prevent future incidents. The Airports of Thailand company, held its first public hearing yesterday, attended by 300 local residents to discuss a five-year plan to expand Chiang Mai Airport. The 24-billion-baht project aims to increase the airport's capacity to handle 20 million passengers annually. AOT’s environment director highlighted the importance of this expansion to strengthen the airport's role as a gateway to northern Thailand. Around the region Malaysia: An Asian technology group including Google, Meta and X urged Malaysia in an open letter to pause a plan that will require social media services to apply for a licence, citing a lack of clarity over the proposed regulations. However, the letter from the Asia Internet Coalition was removed from its website late yesterday without explanation. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Thundershowers 33C degrees celsius Bangkok: Thundershowers 34 Pattaya: heavy rain with thundershowers 31 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 2024-08-27 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Jewellery Heist: Employee Arrested for Stealing 24 Million Baht in Gold Picture courtesy: MGR online Officers from the Phra Ratchawang Police Station in Bangkok have arrested a jewellery store employee who had been stealing gold necklaces from the store's showcase over the years, amassing a total of 646 baht in weight, equating to more than 24 million baht. The suspect, named Pisan, confessed to using the proceeds from selling the stolen gold for personal expenses and travel. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336549-jewellery-heist-employee-arrested-for-stealing-24-million-baht-in-gold/

Officers from the Phra Ratchawang Police Station in Bangkok have arrested a jewellery store employee who had been stealing gold necklaces from the store's showcase over the years, amassing a total of 646 baht in weight, equating to more than 24 million baht. The suspect, named Pisan, confessed to using the proceeds from selling the stolen gold for personal expenses and travel. On August 24, Police Major General Samart Promchat, Commander of Metropolitan Police Division 6, together with Deputy Commander Naris Pratanaporn, led an investigative team to apprehend Pisan. The arrest warrant had been issued by the Nakhon Pathom Provincial Court on July 25, 2024. Pisan, aged 40, was detained in front of a house in the Saothonghin area of Bang Yai district, Nonthaburi, following a tip-off regarding his location. Upon arrival, the officers identified themselves and confirmed Pisan’s identity before presenting the arrest warrant. During questioning, Pisan admitted to stealing gold necklaces from a jewellery store in the Phra Ratchawang area. He detailed his stealing technique: he would move gold necklaces from the lower showcase to the upper showcase, unhook several necklaces, and leave them hanging. Later, he pretended to arrange the necklaces in the upper showcase, surreptitiously letting the unhooked necklaces drop into his hand, which he concealed in his trouser pocket. Pisan repeated this covert operation multiple times. Starting in June 2023, Pisan began stealing gold necklaces and bracelets, each weighing 1 to 2 baht. Every theft involved approximately five to fifteen necklaces, with the activity continuing until his apprehension. Pisan claimed he could not remember the exact quantity of gold stolen due to the frequency of his thefts. All the stolen gold had been sold, and the proceeds were used for everyday expenses and travel. In total, Pisan admitted to stealing around 646 baht in gold, resulting in a loss valued at 24 million baht. Police have detained Pisan at the Phra Ratchawang Police Station for further legal proceedings. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-08-27 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin Labels Pheu Thai Dissolution Lawsuit ‘Baloney’ Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra, often seen as the real power behind ruling party Pheu Thai, has dismissed a lawsuit seeking the party’s dissolution as "nothing but baloney." Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336543-thaksin-labels-pheu-thai-dissolution-lawsuit-‘baloney’/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra, often seen as the real power behind ruling party Pheu Thai, has dismissed a lawsuit seeking the party’s dissolution as "nothing but baloney." Thaksin, father of the current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, remains unperturbed by this legal challenge, which accuses him of illegally exerting influence over the party. Due to previous convictions, Thaksin cannot officially be part of any political entity, although his influence has been undeniable. The lawsuit, recently filed with the Election Commission, claims Thaksin's actions amount to an illegal control of Pheu Thai. However, the billionaire has waved off these allegations with characteristic bravado. Thaksin's adversaries argue that his behind-the-scenes manoeuvres have significantly shaped the current Pheu Thai-led government structure. This includes pivotal decisions such as the appointment of former real estate tycoon Srettha Thavisin as Prime Minister and the allocation of key cabinet positions among coalition partners. Despite the gravity of the lawsuit, the Pheu Thai ranks, including Prime Minister Paetongtarn, remain publicly unruffled. When questioned about the case, Paetongtarn offered no comment, reflecting the party’s strategy to downplay the issue. Supporters of Thaksin and the Pheu Thai party claim the allegations are baseless. They argue that Thaksin has merely been providing “solicited advice” to his daughter, as any father would. Official responses from the party uniformly dismiss the claims as legally and practically unfounded, though members often refer to Thaksin as “boss." The Election Commission, an ostensibly independent body, now holds the petition. Past dissolutions of Thaksin’s parties, Thai Rak Thai in 2007 and People’s Power in 2008, were based on electoral rigging. However, this new lawsuit addresses different issues, primarily Thaksin’s indirect but pervasive influence. Historically, Thaksin founded the Thai Rak Thai party in 1998, serving as Prime Minister until a coup in 2006 forced him into exile. The subsequent dissolution of his political groups and their reformation into newer entities have been a pattern, indicative of the ongoing political turmoil in Thailand. It remains to be seen how the Election Commission will act. Still, Thaksin’s confidence and the Pheu Thai party’s apparent solidarity suggest they are prepared to face this latest challenge. -- 2024-08-27 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Ex-police chief arraigned for mishandling Red Bull heir case Picture courtesy: MGR online Former national police chief Pol Gen Somyot Poompanmuang, alongside seven other high-profile suspects, is set to be held accountable this Thursday for their alleged roles in mishandling the notorious hit-and-run case involving Red Bull heir Vorayuth Yoovidhya, dating back to 2012. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336542-former-police-chief-arraigned-over-red-bull-heirs-case-mishandling/