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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. The group facing charges includes prominent names such as former deputy attorney-general Nate Naksuk, Pol Maj-Gen Thawatchai Mekprasertuk, Pol Col Veeradol Taptimdee, and civilians like Chainarong Sangthongaram, Thanit Buakhiew, Chuchai Lertpongadisorn, and Associate Professor Saiprasit Kerdniyom. The charges against them arise from their purported involvement in altering police reports and dismissing charges to benefit Yoovidhya. According to Watcharin Phanurat, deputy prosecution director-general of the Office of Investigation, the suspects are required to report to the office before being taken to the Bangkok Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases to face formal indictment. Naksuk, for instance, is charged with malfeasance in office for his decision to drop the speeding charge against Yoovidhya. Others face accusations of conspiring to manipulate the reported speed of the vehicle involved in the fatal incident. Phanurat estimates the proceedings might extend for another year. Despite the high status of the suspects, he emphasised his commitment to revealing the truth in this controversial and widely criticised case. Notably, many of the charges initially brought against Yoovidhya, including speeding and failing to assist an accident victim, have been dismissed due to the statute of limitations. Nonetheless, a charge of reckless driving resulting in death remains. The incident in question occurred on September 4th, 2012, when Yoovidhya allegedly struck and killed policeman Wichian Klanprasert with his Ferrari on Sukhumvit Road. Currently, Yoovidhya remains overseas, evading the charge. -- 2024-08-27 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 27 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1336541-thailand-live-tuesday-27-august-2024/

Remains of 9 victims of Chachoengsao plane crash recovered Forensic officers have recovered the remains of all nine people on board the Cessna Caravan plane which crashed into a mangrove swamp in Bang Pakong district of Chachoengsao province on August 22. Photo: Thai PBS World Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336202-22-august-small-aircraft-crash-in-chachoengsao/?do=findComment&comment=19182228

Yingluck’s 6 trillion baht water project revived to address floods by Ryan Turne Image: Public Relations Department A massive water management project initially proposed by Yingluck Shinawatra may be revived, aiming to tackle Thailand’s recurring issues of flooding and drought. The initiative, projected to cost around 6 trillion baht, has been deemed a national priority by Caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336485-yingluck’s-6-trillion-baht-water-project-revived-to-address-floods/

A massive water management project initially proposed by Yingluck Shinawatra may be revived, aiming to tackle Thailand’s recurring issues of flooding and drought. The initiative, projected to cost around 6 trillion baht, has been deemed a national priority by Caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. “The matter was first raised by the Yingluck government. In 2011, a budget of 2 to 3 trillion baht was set aside for the project. Now, it will cost about 5 to 6 trillion to carry out the project.” Phumtham emphasised that despite the substantial expenditure, the long-term benefits would justify the investment. During a visit to Nan province, Phumtham inspected flood relief operations and distributed supplies to affected residents. He noted Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra‘s concern for flood victims and her frustration over the caretaker government’s limited capacity to assist until a new government is formed. “The caretaker government is now doing everything in its power to help.” Once the new government is in place, the water management project will be proposed for consideration. Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra recently advocated for several water projects to address the country’s persistent flooding and drought issues. Persistent floods As of yesterday, August 25, floods were reported in five northern provinces: Chiang Rai, Nan, Phayao, Phetchabun, and Phrae, according to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM). Between August 16 and yesterday, floods claimed the lives of 22 people, with 13 fatalities in Phuket. The inundation has displaced 30,807 families across 22 provinces. Chaovalit Gunkham, an assistant governor of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), mentioned that while some northern areas have seen floodwaters recede, EGAT will continue to monitor water levels in major river basins. The Sirikit Dam in Uttaradit province, one of the main dams in the upper north of Thailand, is currently 70% full and can accommodate an additional 2.9 million cubic metres of runoff. To prevent downstream flooding and conserve water for the dry season, the dam’s discharge rate has been reduced to three million cubic metres per day. Surasee Kittimonthon, secretary-general of the Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR), reported that continuous rainfall has caused water levels along the Mekong River to rise, impacting low-lying areas in the north and northeast. The ONWR has issued an emergency notice to the Mekong River Commission Secretariat (MRCS), requesting increased flood surveillance and daily reports from water stations in Chiang Rai, Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Amnat Charoen, and Ubon Ratchathani. High waters In Sukhothai, the Yom River overflowed its banks yesterday, flooding villages and farmland in Sawankhalok, Sri Samrong, Kong Krailat, and Mueang districts with waters up to 50 centimetres deep. Governor Suchart Theekhasuk ordered the establishment of a relief operation centre to assist affected residents. With more rain expected, relevant authorities in Bangkok have implemented measures to prevent runoff from the north from causing widespread flooding in the capital. Deputy Governor Wissanu Sapsompol stated that City Hall is closely monitoring water levels along the Chao Phraya River and sharing data with the Royal Irrigation Department, Centre of National Water Administration, and ONWR. “The flow [of the Chao Phraya River] through Ayutthaya’s Bang Sai district was not at a worrying level today. Run-off from Nan is expected to take about five days to arrive downstream, and we will know [the severity of the situation] two days in advance when the water reaches Bang Sai.” He also mentioned that officials have reinforced and heightened flood walls along the Chao Phraya with sandbags. Resources, including sandbags and water pumps, have been mobilised to flood-prone areas across Bangkok to ensure a swift response in emergencies, reported Bangkok Post. by Ryan Turne Image: Public Relations Department Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

King cobra makes a hiss-terious house call in Chon Buri by Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of Devdiscourse official website A homeowner in Chon Buri had a terrifying encounter when a 4-metre king cobra slithered into their house. The snake, which raised its head as if to greet the homeowner, coiled itself under a table, prompting a call for assistance from local authorities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336484-king-cobra-makes-a-hiss-terious-house-call-in-chon-buri/

A homeowner in Chon Buri had a terrifying encounter when a 4-metre king cobra slithered into their house. The snake, which raised its head as if to greet the homeowner, coiled itself under a table, prompting a call for assistance from local authorities. At 5am yesterday, August 25, the Tri Khunatham Foundation’s rescue team received an urgent call from residents of house number 32, Moo 5, in Nong Ri, Mueang district, Chon Buri. The team rushed to the scene equipped with snake-handling tools. Upon arrival, the rescue team found the massive king cobra under a table. It took them over 20 minutes to carefully capture the aggressive snake. After securing the cobra in a sack, the situation seemed under control. However, the sack had a tear, allowing the snake to escape, leading to a second round of frantic efforts to capture it again. A volunteer from the Tri Khunatham Foundation, Naphon Ngamsamoe, explained the risks associated with such venomous snakes. “A king cobra’s venom is deadly. If bitten and not treated immediately, it could be fatal. People without proper snake-handling knowledge should always call experts.” He further mentioned that the snake would be released back into its natural habitat. Naphon also highlighted the importance of being cautious, especially during the rainy season. ” Venomous snakes tend to seek dry places. With the current storm season causing rain in many areas, I urge residents to be extra careful, particularly around items stored outside their homes.” Additionally, Naphon noted that snakes often enter homes in search of food like rats and find hiding places among piles of materials or objects, reported Khaosod. In related news, in Suphan Buri, a couple discovered a 3.2-meter king cobra under their house, prompting a rescue call. The snake was safely captured and released. The couple, believing the encounter might bring them luck, plans to use their house number, 613, for lottery tickets. by Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of Devdiscourse official website Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

New Cabinet line-up to be finalised by weekend by Ryan Turner Image: Varuth Hirunyatheb/Bangkok Post The new Cabinet line-up is expected to be finalised by the end of the week, according to Caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The government plans to immediately address national issues following the announcement of its policy statement in parliament next month. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336477-new-cabinet-line-up-to-be-finalised-by-weekend/

The new Cabinet line-up is expected to be finalised by the end of the week, according to Caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The government plans to immediately address national issues following the announcement of its policy statement in parliament next month. Phumtham, who stepped in as acting prime minister after Srettha Thavisin’s dismissal by the Constitutional Court, confirmed that the Pheu Thai Party is working diligently to prepare the Cabinet line-up. This readiness is crucial for the government to start addressing pressing issues facing the country. Once the line-up is finalised, it will be submitted to His Majesty the King for royal endorsement. Following approval, the new ministers will take an oath of office before His Majesty the King. Phumtham anticipates that the policy statement will be discussed and announced in the second week of September. Phumtham noted that the number of candidates proposed by coalition allies surpasses the 35 available Cabinet posts, as stipulated by the constitution. “This is because each party is preparing for the possibility of one or more of their candidates being declared ineligible to assume a Cabinet post.” The Constitutional Court has set high ethical standards for Cabinet ministers, particularly after ex-PM Srettha’s dismissal for appointing the former convict Pichit Chuenban as a PM’s Office minister. Remains optimistic While optimistic about completing the line-up by the end of the week, Phumtham declined to comment on reports suggesting the Democrat Party, a long-standing rival of Pheu Thai, might join the new coalition government. “I cannot comment on the matter. It will become clear once the new ministers are royally endorsed.” Speculation indicates that the Democrat Party could receive two ministerial positions if they join the coalition. Party leader Chalermchai Sri-on is rumoured to become the Natural Resources and Environment Minister, with secretary-general Det-it Khaothong potentially taking a deputy minister position. These positions were initially intended for the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), led by Prawit Wongsuwon, who sources say may be excluded from the new Pheu Thai-led administration. Rumours of the Democrat Party joining the coalition emerged after former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra indicated at the Vision for Thailand forum last Thursday, August 22, that the new government, led by his daughter, would include Democrat members. Democrat Deputy Secretary-General Chaichana Detdecho attended the forum, marking Thaksin’s first public speaking engagement in Thailand in 17 years. Deputy Democrat leader Narapat Kaewthong stated yesterday, August 25, that the party had not yet received any invitation to join the Pheu Thai-led government. However, if approached, party executives and MPs will convene to make a decision. Addressing the rivalry between the Democrats and Pheu Thai, Narapat emphasised that politicians must instead prioritise public interest, reported Bangkok Post. by Ryan Turner Image: Varuth Hirunyatheb/Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

German Teacher Escapes Attempted Rape in Isaan by Grab Rider Picture courtesy: Daily News, Facebook/ PeakZa Harleyman In a shocking incident in Ubon Ratchathani's Isaan province, a German teacher narrowly escaped an attempted rape by a Grab rider on Friday, August 23. The woman sought help at a tea shop on Suppasit Road around 7:30 PM. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336475-german-teacher-escapes-attempted-rape-in-isaan-by-grab-rider/

In a shocking incident in Ubon Ratchathani's Isaan province, a German teacher narrowly escaped an attempted rape by a Grab rider on Friday, August 23. The woman sought help at a tea shop on Suppasit Road around 7:30 PM. Police from Mueang Ubon Ratchathani Police Station, supported by the Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Rescue Foundation, responded promptly. They found the teacher in a state of shock, tearfully recounting her harrowing experience. The victim explained she had booked a Grab ride home from a shopping mall around 7 PM. The rider, identified as 39-year-old Thitipong, deviated from the route, taking her to a secluded forest area where he attempted to rape her. In a desperate struggle, the woman managed to fight off Thitipong, who then punched her in the face. She escaped and found refuge at a nearby tea shop. Police utilised security camera footage to identify Thitipong, locating him at his home in Kham Yai sub-district early the next morning. When questioned, Thitipong provided a contradictory account, accusing the victim of seductive behaviour and claiming it led to a misunderstanding. He alleged that he only parked the motorcycle because he misinterpreted her actions. When she poked his eyes in self-defence, he reacted violently, but he denied any intention of rape or theft, despite her phone going missing. Thitipong's drug test revealed methamphetamine, commonly known as yaba, in his system. Consequently, he faces multiple charges, including: - Physical assault (up to 2 years imprisonment or a 40,000 baht fine) - Detaining a person leading to severe injury (3 to 15 years imprisonment) - Theft using a vehicle (5 to 10 years imprisonment with a fine of 100,000 to 200,000 baht) - Driving under the influence of drugs (3 to 10 years imprisonment, a 60,000 to 200,000 baht fine, and a driving licence withdrawal) This incident has raised alarms regarding rider safety and the measures in place to protect passengers. The authorities are urging increased scrutiny and regulation to prevent such occurrences in the future. Picture courtesy: Daily News, Facebook/ PeakZa Harleyman -- 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Kyrgyz Boxer Faces Sexual Assault Charges Picture courtesy: Khaosod PHUKET — A Kyrgyz boxer visiting Phuket for training has been arrested after being accused of sexually assaulting a spa employee in the Mueang Phuket District. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local and expat communities nestled in this popular tourist destination. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336474-kyrgyz-boxer-faces-sexual-assault-charges/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod PHUKET — A Kyrgyz boxer visiting Phuket for training has been arrested after being accused of sexually assaulting a spa employee in the Mueang Phuket District. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local and expat communities nestled in this popular tourist destination. On August 24, Chalong Police Station officers apprehended Mr Sultan, 28, a seasoned boxer hailing from Kyrgyzstan. The arrest follows a grave accusation made by 19-year-old Miss A, an employee at a spa located in Moo 3, Chalong Sub-district. According to Miss A's police report, the alleged assault occurred on August 18 when Sultan visited the spa to use the ice bath service. Miss A detailed that Sultan initially acted like a regular customer, making use of the facilities she had prepared. However, events took a distressing turn later in the afternoon. Sultan allegedly followed Miss A into a room where she went to turn off gas equipment and began sexually harassing her. Despite his efforts, the assault did not escalate to completion as Sultan reportedly suffered from back pain, rendering him unable to continue. Before leaving, he used a translation app to tell Miss A, “Can’t continue due to back pain, and will come back the next day,” followed by an ominous “Don’t tell anyone.” Miss A immediately reported the incident to the police. Forensic officers quickly gathered evidence from the crime scene, summoning Sultan for questioning. The boxer wasn't quiet on social media, curiously posting pictures of himself training as usual, seemingly unfazed by the allegations against him, reported Khaosod. According to Section 276 of the Thai Criminal Code, anyone found guilty of committing sexual intercourse through coercion or exploiting an individual’s inability to resist can face between four to twenty years in prison and a fine ranging from eighty thousand to four hundred thousand Baht. As the Phuket police continue their investigation, the case spotlights critical issues surrounding safety and the conduct of visitors in the tourist-driven island. This story is developing, and further details are expected as the investigation proceeds. -- 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand’s Casino Complex: 90% of Patrons Expected to be Locals File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand is poised to move forward with an ambitious entertainment complex project that includes a casino. According to the Finance Ministry, the majority of the casino’s patrons—up to 90%—are expected to be Thai locals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336473-thailand’s-casino-complex-90-of-patrons-expected-to-be-locals/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand is poised to move forward with an ambitious entertainment complex project that includes a casino. According to the Finance Ministry, the majority of the casino’s patrons—up to 90%—are expected to be Thai locals. Public hearings are ongoing for the draft law governing this new venture, fulfilling constitutional requirements. Heading the initiative is caretaker Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. A special House committee under his leadership has studied the feasibility and submitted its findings to the Cabinet, prompting the Finance Ministry to draft the necessary legislation. The study draws parallels with Macau, where casino gambling attracts at least 10% of the population, primarily locals. Applying this metric to Thailand, the committee projects that 37 million Thai residents could be potential casino visitors. With 11 million foreign tourists in Thailand in 2022, the committee anticipates a combined figure of 4.8 million potential gamblers, of which 3.7 million would be Thai residents. These projections appear realistic. According to a Finance Ministry source, 4.48 million Thais engaged in card gambling in 2021. It's anticipated that some of these Thai gamblers, who previously ventured to neighboring countries, would instead patronize local casinos once they open. The draft law assigns significant authority to the prime minister, who will enforce the law, and to the Entertainment Complex Policy Committee, chaired by the prime minister, which will manage complex-related policies. Companies seeking a concession must be either limited or public limited companies with at least 10 billion baht in registered capital. Each licence will have a 30-year validity, renewable for additional 10-year terms, and feature a 5 billion baht fee and an annual 1 billion baht renewal cost. For Thai patrons, the entrance fee to the casino will be capped at 5,000 baht per person, according to a Bangkok Post report. Thus, the project stands as a significant economic gamble with high-stakes expectations. -- 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Bus Firms Under Siege by Cut-Rate Chinese Competitors File:Chinese bus in China town, Bangkok. Courtesy: Wikipedia The Thai bus industry is grappling with an influx of Chinese operators offering ultra-cheap services, disrupting the local market. The crisis has reached a critical point, prompting a call for immediate action from Thai authorities and industry stakeholders. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336472-thai-bus-firms-under-siege-by-cut-rate-chinese-competitors/

File:Chinese bus in China town, Bangkok. Courtesy: Wikipedia The Thai bus industry is grappling with an influx of Chinese operators offering ultra-cheap services, disrupting the local market. The crisis has reached a critical point, prompting a call for immediate action from Thai authorities and industry stakeholders. Wasuchet Sophonsathien, President of the Thai Transportation Operators Association, has highlighted the deep-seated issues. Illegal foreign bus services are rife, usurping market share from licensed Thai operators still recovering from the economic downturn caused by COVID-19. The competition has intensified with a shift in strategy by these foreign entities. A growing number of Chinese luxury tour groups are abandoning larger buses in favour of smaller vans and minivans. Disturbingly, some long-term foreign residents are skirting the law, using personal and international driving licences to operate these vehicles commercially—a practice strictly reserved for Thai nationals. The foreign operators have been exploiting legal loopholes by registering businesses through Thai nominees. This allows them to offer services at drastically reduced rates. For instance, where Thai companies would charge around 7,000 baht for a route from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Pattaya, their Chinese counterparts offer it for half the price. These unauthorised operators have established a stronghold by collaborating with foreign agents, hotels, and restaurants to attract and serve tour groups. According to Wasuchet, tourists often use foreign payment apps, making it difficult for Thai authorities to monitor financial transactions and collect taxes properly, reported Bangkok Post. The problem is further complicated by Thailand's visa policy, which allows 60-day stays for nationals from 93 countries. This has led to an uptick in foreigners working illegally in the transport sector to make ends meet. Currently, only 13,000 to 14,000 tour buses are operational, compared to 40,000 in 2019. Many Thai bus firms have struggled to secure funds needed to revive their fleets after the pandemic. Wasuchet has urged the government to crack down on illegal nominees by working with the private sector to detect and eliminate these fraudulent businesses. He also suggested regulating diesel prices to ease operational costs and increasing public spending on events to boost demand for bus services. The urgent calls for regulatory measures and financial support reflect the critical need to level the playing field for Thai bus operators facing unfair competition from illicit foreign entities. -- 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Workers found alive under collapsed tunnel at rail construction site by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Three workers have been found alive under a collapsed tunnel at the high-speed rail construction site between Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to retrieve them from 6 metres beneath the debris. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336423-landslide-buries-workers-inside-high-speed-rail-tunnel-construction-in-nakhon-ratchasima/?do=findComment&comment=19180411

Workers found alive under collapsed tunnel at rail construction site by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Three workers have been found alive under a collapsed tunnel at the high-speed rail construction site between Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima. Rescue teams are working tirelessly to retrieve them from 6 metres beneath the debris. The incident occurred yesterday, August 25, at the high-speed rail tunnel construction site between the Janthuek and Klong Khananchit stations in Pak Chong district, Nakhon Ratchasima. The collapse happened inside the third tunnel, which spans 1.5 kilometres, approximately 600 metres from the entrance. The tunnel caved in on a vehicle and three workers around midnight. Following the collapse, construction company officials have been continuously searching for the missing workers. The district chief of Pak Chong, Kanatshanom Sricharoen and local government officials, including Kris Phunkasem, head of the Nakhon Ratchasima Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office, have been actively monitoring the rescue efforts. The Provincial Governor, Chaiwat Chuenkosum, also visited the site with the provincial police chief, Narongrit Dansuwan, to oversee the rescue operations. A command centre has been established at the Klong Khananchit railway station to coordinate the rescue efforts. Rescue teams have been using pulse-detection equipment to locate the missing workers, believed to be trapped under the tunnel debris for over 24 hours. Officials have been praying for the workers’ survival. According to the authorities on-site, the tunnel excavation involved removing three soil layers before installing support beams. During the excavation, soil from the first and second layers suddenly collapsed, burying two trucks and the workers. Closely monitoring Kanatshanom, who is directing the rescue operations, checked on the progress within the tunnel at 11pm. He informed the media at 4am today that Chaiwat, the provincial governor, has been closely following the situation. The Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department provided radar scanning equipment, which arrived at midnight and was immediately put to use. The equipment detected the vital signs of the three trapped workers. Kanatshanom confirmed that pulse-detection equipment had arrived and was being used inside the tunnel. Throughout the night, rescue teams, including those with excavators, worked to remove the soil. At 4.30am today, the equipment detected the workers’ pulses approximately 6 metres beneath the debris, indicating they were still alive. Ambulances and medical teams from Pak Chong Nana Hospital are on standby at the tunnel entrance. The three missing workers include a Chinese supervisor, Hu Xiangmin, an excavator operator, Dong Xinlin, and an unidentified Burmese truck driver. Rescue teams work around the clock to safely extract them from the collapsed tunnel. Emergency personnel remain on-site to provide immediate medical assistance once the workers are rescued. The efforts are ongoing, and the situation remains critical as rescuers strive to bring the workers to safety, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Tourist Police Volunteers Undergo Training to Protect Tourists Ahead of High Season By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya Tourist Police launched a training program to boost volunteers’ ability to protect tourists ahead of the high season. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336470-pattaya-tourist-police-volunteers-undergo-training-to-protect-tourists-ahead-of-high-season/

Pattaya Tourist Police launched a training program to boost volunteers’ ability to protect tourists ahead of the high season. On August 23rd, 2024, Pol Lt Gen Saksira Phueak-am, Commander of the Tourist Police, presided over the opening of a training program for Tourist Police volunteers aimed at enhancing their ability to ensure the safety of tourists in Pattaya. The event was attended by several high-ranking police officers and over 250 participants, including international volunteers. The training program, titled “Training Program for Tourist Police Volunteers to Enhance Tourist Safety in Pattaya, included lectures on the regulations for volunteers, knowledge related to tourism, the powers and duties of the volunteers, By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Ex-Official Arrested for Negligent Road Work, 38 Warrants Picture courtesy: POLICE News Varieties A former provincial administrative organisation president was apprehended in Bangkok for negligent road work in Chaiyaphum, resulting in multiple injuries. Identified as 54-year-old Yothin, he also faces 38 outstanding arrest warrants for cheque violations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336468-ex-official-arrested-for-negligent-road-work-38-warrants/

Picture courtesy: POLICE News Varieties A former provincial administrative organisation president was apprehended in Bangkok for negligent road work in Chaiyaphum, resulting in multiple injuries. Identified as 54-year-old Yothin, he also faces 38 outstanding arrest warrants for cheque violations. The operation, spearheaded by Police Major General Montree Teskan, commander of the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), was executed by Police Colonel Ekkasit Pansita and Police Lieutenant Colonel Piyaporn Reansut. Yothin was detained in Khlong Ton Sai, Khlong San district, following a warrant issued by the Chaiyaphum Provincial Court on June 26, 2024, for causing harm through negligence. Yothin transitioned to a construction business after his term ended, undertaking a road project in Ban Khwao district, Chaiyaphum province. He failed to supervise the work adequately and neglected to install warning signs, resulting in numerous accidents and injuries among road users. Despite the accidents, Yothin reportedly avoided taking responsibility and did not assist the injured, escalating to legal action and his eventual arrest. During questioning, Yothin admitted to inadequate oversight of the construction work but insisted he did not mean to evade responsibility for compensating the injured parties. He claimed the delay in compensation was due to unresolved discussions about the amount and specifics of the damages. A background check revealed Yothin had 38 outstanding arrest warrants related to cheque offences. He was subsequently handed over to Ban Khwao Police Station for further legal proceedings, as reported by KhaoSod. This situation highlights the critical need for rigorous oversight in public construction projects to ensure safety standards are met. The apprehension of Yothin underscores a commitment to holding individuals accountable for negligence, particularly when public safety is at stake. -- 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Shinawatra to Marcos: Southeast Asia's Rising Political Dynasties Picture courtesy: ThaiPBS Political dynasties are leaving their marks on Southeast Asia, with successors from well-known families in Thailand, Cambodia, the Philippines, and Indonesia stepping into roles of power, perpetuating their families' political legacies. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336467-shinawatra-to-marcos-southeast-asias-rising-political-dynasties/

Picture courtesy: ThaiPBS Political dynasties are leaving their marks on Southeast Asia, with successors from well-known families in Thailand, Cambodia, the Philippines, and Indonesia stepping into roles of power, perpetuating their families' political legacies. In Thailand, the Shinawatra family stands out. Four family members have held the prime minister's office, starting with Thaksin Shinawatra in 2001. After Thaksin’s ouster, his sister Yingluck and brother-in-law Somchai Wongsawat also served as prime ministers. Most recently, Thaksin’s daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, made history by becoming Thailand’s youngest prime minister at 38. Cambodia saw a similar shift when Hun Sen, after 38 years in power, passed the baton to his son, Hun Manet, in 2022. Manet, with academic credentials from West Point, New York University, and the University of Bristol, has brought a new yet familiar face to the Cambodian leadership.** The story is echoed in Indonesia, where President Joko Widodo’s eldest son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, is poised to become vice president, running alongside Prabowo Subianto in the 2024 elections. Meanwhile, the Widodo family joins a list of notable political lineages, including those of former presidents Megawati Sukarnoputri, BJ Habibie, and Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.** The Philippines boasts the Marcos family, with Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. serving as the current president, following his father's tenure from 1965 to 1986. The Aquino and Macapagal families are also prominent, with both producing presidents over the years.** Elsewhere in the region, Singapore’s political landscape has been shaped by Lee Kuan Yew and his son Lee Hsien Loong. Malaysia saw Abdul Razak Hussein and his son Najib Razak both serve as prime ministers.** In Laos, the families of Kaysone Phomvihane and Khamtai Siphandone continue to dominate political life. This trend underscores the enduring strength of family ties in the political sphere, as lineage and legacy often guide the path to power in Southeast Asia. -- 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe