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Thailand’s Meteorological Department has announced that the 2024 winter season is set to begin on 29 October 2024 and is expected to last until late February 2025. This season is anticipated to be colder than last year, with December 2024 to January 2025 marking the coldest period. According to Dr. Sukanyaniyawinyacharn, Acting Director-General of the Meteorological Department, the onset of winter is assessed by three factors: a consistent drop in temperatures below 23°C across northern Thailand, a shift to northeast and east winds at lower altitudes, and a gradual decrease in rainfall. This year’s winter season is estimated to start two weeks later than average. Average minimum temperatures in northern Thailand are expected to be between 20-21°C, slightly lower than last year’s 21.6°C. Bangkok may experience lows of 16-18°C, with surrounding areas dipping to 14-16°C. The lowest temperatures, approximately 6-8°C, are anticipated in the mountains and peaks of the North and Northeast regions, where frost is also possible. The southern regions will experience cooler weather in some areas, but heavy rain and strong winds will persist, especially around the Gulf of Thailand. Sea waves in the Gulf may reach 2-3 meters, with occasional highs of 3-5 meters due to low-pressure systems or tropical storms in November and December. Residents are advised to monitor weather updates for any significant changes. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-10-26

Fourth-Year Student Arrested with B354M Crystal Meth, Claims Father Left Drugs Picture courtesy: Sanook UDON THANI - A 21-year-old female university student in Udon Thani, Thailand, was arrested after police seized 354 kg of crystal methamphetamine, valued at B354 million, found in her car. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341742- fourth-year-student-arrested-with-b354m-crystal-meth-claims-father-left-drugs/

UDON THANI - A 21-year-old female university student in Udon Thani, Thailand, was arrested after police seized 354 kg of crystal methamphetamine, valued at B354 million, found in her car. The fourth-year student, referred to as "Tong" (alias), broke down in tears, questioning, “Why would my father do this to me?” as she claimed her father had left the drugs with her and had since become unreachable. Authorities from the Udon Thani Border Patrol Police Station acted on a tip-off, surveilling a hotel in the city where they suspected a drug handoff was scheduled. At 6:30 p.m., they observed Tong arriving at the hotel in a white Honda City and subsequently searched her vehicle. Inside, they discovered 12 sacks filled with tea-branded bags containing crystal meth. Tong alleged that her father, a Laotian national, had asked her to store the bags without disclosing their contents. She stated that she was unaware the bags contained illegal drugs, explaining that her father would occasionally send her money but rarely communicated. “He just asked me to keep the items, saying someone else would collect them,” she said. Tong also revealed that her parents separated when she was young, and she was raised by her grandparents. She added that she’d previously helped her father by driving items for him but was unaware of any illegal dealings. The police have detained Tong for further investigation into the larger drug trafficking network involved, reported Sanook. Picture courtesy: Sanook -- 2024-10-26

Health Minister Joins in Sending 14-Year-Old Bus Fire Victim Home Picture courtesy: INN News Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, along with senior officials and medical staff, gathered to support the safe return home of a 14-year-old girl who had been critically injured in a tragic school bus fire. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341739-health-minister-joins-in-sending-14-year-old-bus-fire-victim-home/

Picture courtesy: INN News Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, along with senior officials and medical staff, gathered to support the safe return home of a 14-year-old girl who had been critically injured in a tragic school bus fire. The incident, involving a study trip bus from Wat Khao Prayasankharam School in Uthai Thani, occurred along Phaholyothin Road and left several students injured, with the girl sustaining particularly severe burns and injuries. She had been receiving intensive care and support for nearly a month at the Queen Sirikit National Institute of Child Health, where staff worked tirelessly to aid her recovery. Somsak, joined by ministry spokesperson Traichada Srithada, Dr. Opas Kankawinpong, the ministry's permanent secretary, Dr. Taweesin Visanuyothin, director-general of the Department of Medical Services, and Dr. Thanin Vejjapinun, deputy director-general, expressed deep gratitude for the dedication of the medical staff. Dr. Akkarat Chanuyanon, director of the Queen Sirikit Institute, commended his team, noting the challenges faced in treating the girl’s injuries and their commitment to her rehabilitation. Minister Somsak used the occasion to highlight the ministry’s dedication to patient welfare, with a special focus on providing comprehensive care and mental health support. During the send-off, Somsak presented the family with a support package, underscoring the importance of sustained healthcare and community aid for families recovering from traumatic events. The ministry also outlined further steps to support schools and communities in fire safety and emergency response, helping prevent similar tragedies. The girl’s family expressed heartfelt gratitude to the medical team and the Ministry of Public Health for their unwavering support during her treatment and recovery, marking a hopeful step forward in her healing journey, reported INN News. -- 2024-10-26

Thai Influencer Arrested at Bangkok Airport for Forex Fraud After Fleeing to Indonesia Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 25 October 2024, Thai authorities at Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport arrested renowned influencer and net idol, Ms. Suchata, also known as “Nutty,” along with her mother, Ms. Thaniya. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341736-thai-influencer-arrested-at-bangkok-airport-for-forex-fraud-after-fleeing-to-indonesia/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 25 October 2024, Thai authorities at Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport arrested renowned influencer and net idol, Ms. Suchata, also known as “Nutty,” along with her mother, Ms. Thaniya. Both women had been on the run for over two years, evading charges related to a major Forex trading scam. The arrests were led by Deputy Director of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), Pol. Lt. Col. Wisanu Chimtrakool, in coordination with senior police officials. The two suspects faced charges linked to Case 294/2565 under the 1984 Public Borrowing Fraud Act. They allegedly used the IQ Option app to lure victims into a fraudulent Forex trading scheme, promising returns but failing to deliver payouts or refund investments. The investigation uncovered significant financial losses, with 438 victims and damages amounting to approximately 239 million baht. Indonesian authorities detained the suspects for immigration violations, and the Thai Embassy in Jakarta confirmed their identities. On 25 October, they were deported to Thailand, where DSI officials promptly detained them for further legal proceedings. Police also reported that earlier this year, assets worth around 16.7 million baht from the suspects had been seized, with additional assets frozen. This high-profile case highlights increased cooperation between Thai and Indonesian authorities to bring financial crime suspects to justice. The DSI aims to further investigate to recover more assets for affected victims, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-10-26

Analysts Predict Baht Decline if Trump Wins US Presidency File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand's baht is expected to depreciate further amid continuing capital outflows leading up to the US presidential election next month. Kasikorn Research Centre (K-Research) forecasts that if Republican candidate Donald Trump secures victory, the baht could potentially trade below 34.50 against the dollar. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341734-analysts-predict-baht-decline-if-trump-wins-us-presidency/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand's baht is expected to depreciate further amid continuing capital outflows leading up to the US presidential election next month. Kasikorn Research Centre (K-Research) forecasts that if Republican candidate Donald Trump secures victory, the baht could potentially trade below 34.50 against the dollar. The baht recently fell to 33.84 against the dollar, marking its lowest level in over six weeks. This comes as other regional currencies also weakened, impacted by stronger US dollar performance. Kanjana Chockpisansin, K-Research's head of research for banking and financial sectors, explained that outflows from Thailand's stock and bond markets are occurring, bolstered by the dollar's strength due to rising US bond yields. The US Federal Reserve has indicated a gradual interest rate cut, further supporting the dollar. On Wednesday, US 10-year Treasury yields peaked at 4.26%, the highest since late July, fueled by concerns over bond market pressures linked to a contentious November election. "If Mr. Trump wins, the potential increase in government spending or borrowing could complicate US inflation reduction efforts, impacting the Fed's rate cut path," noted Kanjana. Such dynamics bolster the dollar, affecting Asian currencies like the yuan. Despite these factors, K-Research continues to foresee a 0.25% reduction in US rates at each remaining Fed meeting this year, in line with Kasikorn Bank's stance. Meanwhile, Thailand's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is likely to hold domestic policy rates at its December meeting following a recent 25-basis-point reduction. "The MPC decisions are more likely to reflect Thailand’s own economic conditions rather than mirroring Fed actions," Kanjana added. Kavee Chukitkasem from Pi Securities observed ongoing fund withdrawals from the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) amid election uncertainties and institutional investors viewing the SET's current price-to-earnings ratio as expensive, reported Bangkok Post. "Election uncertainties are steering investors away from riskier assets toward safer holdings like the dollar and gold. Nonetheless, historically, stocks tend to recover post-election, regardless of the outcome," Kavee concluded. -- 2024-10-26

Thai Freshman Still in Coma Six Months After Brutal Hazing Incident Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A 19-year-old university freshman in Thailand has been in a coma for six months following a brutal hazing incident in April. The assault took place at a university in Bangkok, where an older student admitted to kicking the victim in the chest during the hazing ritual. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341732-thai-freshman-still-in-coma-six-months-after-brutal-hazing-incident/

Thai Navy's Submarine Agreement with China Nearing Completion File photo courtesy: GVA Thailand's Defence Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, announced last night that the Navy's protracted plan to acquire a Chinese-built S26T submarine is expected to be finalised soon. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341731-thai-navys-submarine-agreement-with-china-nearing-completion/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A 19-year-old university freshman in Thailand has been in a coma for six months following a brutal hazing incident in April. The assault took place at a university in Bangkok, where an older student admitted to kicking the victim in the chest during the hazing ritual. The student's mother, Thanawan Pannoppha, expressed her frustration through Channel 7, revealing that no parties have accepted responsibility for her son's condition. The incident occurred on university grounds, and he is now in a hospital in Pathum Thani province, near Bangkok. Thanawan initially received a call from a university professor on August 23, claiming her son fell from a fourth-floor staircase and was transported to the hospital. However, upon arrival, she saw doctors performing CPR on him, raising suspicions as she doubted a fall could result in such life-threatening injuries. Medical staff informed her that her son had stopped breathing before reaching the hospital and was subsequently resuscitated. A few days later, on August 28, a fellow student confessed to Thanawan that her son was kicked in the chest, which led to a seizure and prolonged unconsciousness. She reported the confession to Dusit Police Station, though the investigation has seen little progress. The university has not taken any responsibility, citing an absence of security cameras and witnesses at the hazing location, on the building's fifth floor. Determined to uncover the truth and seek justice for her son, Thanawan challenges the university's claims. Financially challenged, she depends on public healthcare for her son's treatment, who remains on life support. Superintendent Nathatchapong Kiriram of Dusit Police Station insists that police efforts continue, with evidence collection underway. This tragic case underscores concerns about hazing practices and safety oversight in educational institutions. -- 2024-10-26

File photo courtesy: GVA Thailand's Defence Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, announced last night that the Navy's protracted plan to acquire a Chinese-built S26T submarine is expected to be finalised soon. This long-delayed purchase from China Shipbuilding & Offshore International involves substituting the initially planned German engine with a Chinese-made one. Acknowledging mixed reactions, Phumtham emphasised considering the entire Thai-Chinese diplomatic relationship alongside the submarine deal. He reassured that despite challenges, the agreement, spearheaded by previous Navy leadership, would likely reach completion during his term at Thailand's defence ministry. Notably, the current purchase contract is set to lapse next month, adding urgency to the negotiations. Complications arose when Navy admirals previously advocated switching from the German MTU396 engine to the Chinese-made CHD620 engine, despite the latter's lack of deployment in any global naval fleets, including China’s. This choice was influenced by Germany's export restrictions on weaponry to China, restraining direct procurement. Phumtham's confident assurance follows years of uncertainties clouding the submarine acquisition process, exacerbated by geopolitical factors and technological concerns. The mention of steadfast moves toward conclusion suggests a strategic balancing act between defence modernisation and international relations. Apart from the intergovernmental aspects, considerations around technological reliability remain pertinent, with the Chinese engine's unprecedented use in submarines being a notable concern. Yet, the resolution of these issues appears critical to maintaining and potentially enhancing Thailand's naval capabilities in a changing geopolitical landscape, reported Thai Newsroom. Ultimately, Phumtham's remarks underline a commitment to both advancing national defence initiatives and nuanced diplomatic engagement with China, reflecting on broader regional security dynamics. -- 2024-10-26

Pattaya Tourist Police Prepare Safety Measures for Tourists During High Season in Thailand By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya Tourist Police are stepping up safety measures for the high season, with a special focus on Christmas and New Year 2025. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341728-pattaya-tourist-police-prepare-safety-measures-for-tourists-during-high-season-in-thailand/

Pattaya Tourist Police are stepping up safety measures for the high season, with a special focus on Christmas and New Year 2025. Pol. Col. Man Rotthong, Superintendent of Tourist Police Division 2, chaired a meeting of the Pattaya Tourist Police on October 24th to discuss safety measures during the upcoming high season in Pattaya. The meeting also reviewed the progress of the Strong Tourism Community (S.T.C.) project and discussed safety plans for the Christmas and New Year 2025 celebrations. Pol. Col. Man said that the Pattaya Tourist Police, along with Thai and international Tourist Police volunteers, will be responsible for maintaining security for international visitors, especially at busy tourist areas like Walking Street. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-10-26

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 26 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1341714-thailand-live-saturday-26-october-2024/

Bangkok Braces for Rising PM2.5 Levels Amid Cool Weather Bangkok is set to experience increased pollution levels over the weekend as PM2.5 particles hang heavy in the air, exacerbated by cool weather and poor circulation, according to the Pollution Control Department. Unsafe PM2.5 concentrations were recorded in 36 areas across the city, with Nong Khaem district leading the pack at 51.1µg/m³. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341709-bangkok-braces-for-rising-pm25-levels-amid-cool-weather/

Thailand pumps the brakes on private sector traffic perksThe Ministry of Transport firmly dismissed allegations from the opposition that its proposed traffic congestion fees will disproportionately benefit the private sector, asserting that the policy is designed with accountability in mind. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341699-thailand-pumps-the-brakes-on-private-sector-traffic-perks/ Image courtesy of The Nation

Bangkok, Chiang Mai Listed Amongst Most Polluted Cities Globally Picture courtesy: it24hrs via Rangsit University Bangkok and Chiang Mai have recently emerged as two of the world's top 50 cities facing significant air pollution challenges, as per the latest IQAir data. Early on Friday, Bangkok ranked 13th globally for air pollution with an air quality index (AQI) of 101. Earlier the same day, it even touched the 7th spot. Chiang Mai followed closely behind at 43rd, with an AQI of 66. These figures paint a grim picture for these Thai cities, as they continue their recovery from recent floods, particularly in Chiang Mai, which struggled with overflowing waterways from the Ping River. Currently, Bangkok remains under an 'orange' alert, signalling unhealthy air, while Chiang Mai finds itself in the 'yellow' zone, indicating moderate conditions. Globally, Delhi, India, maintains the highest pollution levels with an AQI of 287. In Southeast Asia, Hanoi, Vietnam ranks 4th, marked by an AQI reading of 174. Specific districts in Bangkok, including Nong Khaem, have alarmingly high pollution levels, with PM2.5 particles registering at 53.1 microgrammes per cubic metre. Sathon and Bangkok Yai also face similar challenges, with PM2.5 levels at 49.8 and 49.3 respectively. The city's average stands at 35.5µg/m³. In a bid to combat these pollution levels, Bangkok's governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, announced via the BMA's Facebook page that measures are underway. These measures focus on curbing emissions from vehicles and construction activities, with an emphasis on regulating construction truck movements, reported Bangkok Post. As these cities navigate the dual challenges of managing air quality and post-flood recovery, strategic interventions are crucial. The combined effects of climate and urban factors underscore the pressing need for comprehensive environmental strategies in the region. -- 2024-10-25

Buriram gears up for MotoGP 2024 with travel incentives by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of MotoGP Buriram is set to host the prestigious MotoGP event, PT Grand Prix of Thailand 2024, from today, October 25 to 27, at Chang International Circuit. Atthawit Rakjamroon, acting managing director of Transport Company Limited (BorKorSor), announced initiatives to boost travel and attendance for the event. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341663-buriram-gears-up-for-motogp-2024-with-travel-incentives/

Buriram is set to host the prestigious MotoGP event, PT Grand Prix of Thailand 2024, from today, October 25 to 27, at Chang International Circuit. Atthawit Rakjamroon, acting managing director of Transport Company Limited (BorKorSor), announced initiatives to boost travel and attendance for the event. In conjunction with the MotoGP event, BorKorSor introduced a campaign titled Register for Souvenirs… Get Close to the MotoGP 2024 with BorKorSor. Passengers purchasing tickets for travel to or from Buriram on three specific routes: Bangkok-Buriram, Bangkok-Surin, and Bangkok-Rattanaburi, between October 25 and 31, can register to receive a free souvenir. The first 100 passengers to meet the registration criteria will be eligible for a complimentary BorKorSor bag. This initiative aims to encourage public transport usage, increase revenue during the MotoGP event, and enhance awareness of BorKorSor’s services. To participate, passengers must register via QR code through BorKorSor’s various online platforms, including Facebook, Line Official Account, TikTok, and the company’s website. Compliance with the terms and conditions is required to receive the free souvenir, limited to one per person, reported KhaoSod. The campaign is designed to not only promote the use of public transportation but also to provide an engaging experience for MotoGP attendees. In addition to the souvenir campaign, BorKorSor offers benefits for its members. Passengers who are BorKorSor Card members and purchase tickets online for the specified routes during the campaign period will receive a 5% discount on their fare. They will also earn double the reward points for their travel between October 25 and 31. The PT Grand Prix of Thailand 2024 is anticipated to draw significant crowds, contributing to the local economy and tourism in Buriram. The Chang International Circuit has been a renowned venue for international motorsport events, and the upcoming MotoGP race is expected to further solidify its reputation. With the anticipation building, both BorKorSor and MotoGP organisers are gearing up to deliver an unforgettable experience for fans and travellers alike. The integration of travel incentives and the high-energy atmosphere of the MotoGP will undoubtedly close off October with a standout moment for Buriram. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of MotoGP Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-25

Thailand’s vehicle production hits the brakes in a sharp downturn by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Thailand Business News The automotive industry in Thailand has experienced a significant downturn in vehicle production, with September 2024 seeing a total of 122,277 units produced, marking a 25.48% decrease from the same period last year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341655-thailand’s-vehicle-production-hits-the-brakes-in-a-sharp-downturn/

The automotive industry in Thailand has experienced a significant downturn in vehicle production, with September 2024 seeing a total of 122,277 units produced, marking a 25.48% decrease from the same period last year. This decline reflects a 15.78% reduction in vehicles manufactured for export, totalling 87,666 units, and a 42.31% drop in vehicles produced for domestic sales, amounting to 34,611 units. Surapong Paisitpatanapong, an advisor to the Chairman of the Automotive Industry Group and spokesperson for the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), highlighted these figures, noting that the domestic sales figures for September 2024 were the lowest in 53 months, at 39,048 units, showing a 37.11% year-on-year decline. The primary reason behind this drop is the stringent loan approval criteria for car buyers due to the high levels of special mention (SM) loans, which stood at 208.575 billion baht, and non-performing car loans which reached 259.330 billion baht in July 2024. The country’s economic growth in the second quarter of 2024 was a modest 2.3%, with projections for the entire year at only 2.7% to 2.8%. This slow economic growth has further exacerbated the decline in vehicle production and sales. The automotive export market has also been affected, with completed vehicle exports dropping by 17.67% from the previous year to 80,254 units. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has led to fewer shipping voyages and reduced spending in several key trading partners, resulting in lower vehicle sales across all markets except Australia, which saw an increase. Over the first nine months of 2024 (January to September), the total number of vehicles produced for export was 774,175 units, a 4.42% decrease from the previous year. Meanwhile, domestic production fell by 38.57% to 353,851 units. Surapong spoke on the current state of vehicle production. “The current state of vehicle production this year is concerning, the FTI will discuss revising the 2024 vehicle production estimates again in November, down from the current target of 1.7 million units. “The export production target might be reduced by 50,000 to 100,000 units from the current 1.15 million units, and the domestic production target might be lowered by 20,000 to 30,000 units from 550,000 units.” Financial institutions’ continued strict lending practices and the decline in electric vehicle (EV) sales also contribute to the industry’s challenges. Surapong explained that customers are hesitant to purchase EVs due to price uncertainties. The global drop in lithium prices has led to a reduction in battery prices, but there are concerns that battery prices might surge again in 2025, reported KhaoSod. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Thailand Business News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-25

UPDATE: Bail granted to Big Joke’s wife amidst theft and affair accusation by Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath Phra Khanong Police Station officers granted bail to the wife of former police chief, Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, after four hours of questioning regarding a theft accusation yesterday, October 24. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341614-big-joke’s-on-her-police-wife-caught-in-affair-and-burglary-storm/?do=findComment&comment=19328970

Bail granted to Big Joke’s wife amidst theft and affair accusation by Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath Phra Khanong Police Station officers granted bail to the wife of former police chief, Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, after four hours of questioning regarding a theft accusation yesterday, October 24. The wife of a police officer, 50 year old Thanattha, filed a complaint against Big Joke’s wife, Sirinatda Hakparn, accusing her of stealing valuables worth approximately 5.7 million baht from Thanattha’s condominium in Bangkok on October 18. Thanattha alleged that the theft stemmed from an affair between Sirinatda and her police officer husband. She claimed Sirinatda committed the theft after Thanattha discovered their secret relationship. Thanattha added that she possessed security camera footage showing the two engaging in sexual activity in the condominium. The Phra Khanong Police Station issued an arrest warrant for Sirinatda, who later turned herself in yesterday, accompanied by her lawyer. During a brief interview with the media, Sirinatda maintained her innocence and proceeded to a police questioning. After four hours of questioning and other legal procedures, Sirinatda left the police station with her lawyer. She informed the media that she had surrendered to the police only to acknowledge the charge, not to admit to the alleged criminal action. Sirinatda declined to share the details of her statement to the police with the media. Her lawyer stated that Sirinatda would file complaints against anyone who had damaged her name and reputation. According to a report on Channel 3, Sirinatda hurried to her Lexus sedan parked at the rear of the police station. A policewoman was seen shielding Sirinatda with a black umbrella to prevent her from being filmed by journalists. The Superintendent of Phra Khanong Police Station, Chaiwat Pradapthai, stressed that the investigation would focus on the facts of the case and proceed according to the law, regardless of the identity of the alleged perpetrator. According to multiple Thai news agencies, Thanattha has so far only pursued legal action against Sirinatda for theft, with steps regarding the adultery case yet to be processed. UPDATE 1: Big Joke’s on her: Police wife caught in affair and burglary storm The wife of former Deputy Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police, Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, has surrendered to Phra Kanong Police Station following allegations of an affair and the theft of 5.7 million baht. These allegations, concerning an extramarital affair and the theft of valuables worth approximately 5.7 million baht, surfaced after a complaint was filed with the police on October 20 by a 50 year old woman named Thanattha. Thanattha accused the wife of the former police chief of being involved. Thanattha claimed that the woman had an affair with her police officer husband and used a spare key to enter her condominium in Soi Sukhumvit 101 in Bangkok, where she allegedly stole valuables, including 600,000 baht in cash and 5.1 million baht in gold. The name of the accused woman remained undisclosed until today, October, 24 when Big Joke‘s wife, Sirinatda “Kubkip” Hakparn, also known as Madam Kubkip, turned herself into the police. Thanattha further claimed that Sirinatda left five bags of cash in her condominium but she did not check the amount of money in them. She took the bags to the police station for further examination. Officers intend to conduct a DNA test on the bags to determine the true owner of the cash. Big Joke himself did not accompany his wife to the police station today and has not yet spoken to the media regarding the matter. According to Matichon, Sirinatda gave a brief statement to reporters, denying the allegations. “It’s not true. I will assign my lawyer to handle anything that damages my reputation.” It is also unclear whether Sirinatda will be granted bail. Big Joke and the police officers working closely with him were previously suspended from their positions following alleged involvement in an online gambling ring. The case remains under investigation, and there have been no recent developments. ORIGINAL STORY: Gold-digging: Ex-cop’s wife accused of affair, burglary in Bangkok A Thai woman accused the wife of a former police chief of having an adulterous affair with her husband and stealing approximately 5.7 million baht worth of cash and gold accessories from her condominium in Bangkok. The 50 year old woman, Thanattha, filed a complaint at Phra Khanong Police Station on October 20, alleging that the wife of the former high-ranking police officer, an unidentified police general, stole her valuables on August 18. She attempted to contact the woman to retrieve her valuables peacefully but was unsuccessful. Thanattha explained that the woman was her husband’s ex-girlfriend but they remained in contact, claiming they were friends. Suspecting their relationship, Thanattha hid a camera in her condominium room on Soi Sukhumvit 101 in the Bang Chak district of Bangkok and witnessed them engaging in sexual activity. Thanattha stated that she and her husband then moved to another condominium in Nakhon Pathom province, near Bangkok, to be closer to their workplaces. This allowed the woman, who had a key to their new room, to enter and steal the valuables. According to Thanattha, she asked her nephew to check on her room, and he witnessed her husband’s lover entering. She rushed to the condominium, hoping to catch her, but by the time she arrived, the woman had already left. Thanattha revealed that some of the stolen valuables were intended for their wedding, which was planned for February next year. However, the theft and infidelity have disrupted these plans. Officers at Phra Khanong Police Station intend to question Thanattha in greater detail and will summon the accused thief and lover for questioning if she is found guilty. Following updates on the Facebook news page Jay Moy V+, the accused woman has contacted the police and has already scheduled a date to turn herself in. In a related report, a Thai woman shared with news agencies that her police officer husband had an affair with an online vendor on the TikTok application. The police officer and his alleged lover denied the accusation, claiming the officer was only working for the woman to pay off a debt. However, the two were seen close to each other in TikTok videos, prompting the wife to sue both for 500,000 baht in compensation. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-25