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Picture from responders. The Cessna Caravan C208 aircraft that crashed, was carrying five foreign passengers, all Chinese nationals, with two pilots and two flight attendants, total of 9 onboard. It is assumed that there were no survivors. Aircraft Crash in Chachoengsao, 9 Assumed Dead, Including 2 Children Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336202-22-august-small-aircraft-crash-in-chachoengsao/

UPDATE: Japanese man loses 310,000 baht to visa scam and corrupt police by Petch Petpailin Photo via MGR Online A Japanese man filed a complaint with the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) after losing 300,000 baht in a visa scam and an additional 10,000 baht to a corrupt Thai cyber cop. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336147-sergeant-helps-japanese-man-report-visa-scam-amid-mounting-losses/?do=findComment&comment=19169874

Japanese man loses 310,000 baht to visa scam and corrupt police by Petch Petpailin Photo via MGR Online A Japanese man filed a complaint with the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) after losing 300,000 baht in a visa scam and an additional 10,000 baht to a corrupt Thai cyber cop. The victim, 51 year old Shinichi Maeda, who runs a clothing export business in Thailand, revealed to CIB police that he has been living in Thailand for 20 years and running his business in the country for about 14 years. Seeking a long-term visa, he hired a Thai man named Jakkapong to handle the process. Jakkapong claimed he could offer Shinichi a visa for a permanent stay in Thailand for just 20,000 baht. Shinichi paid Jakkapong the amount in 2019 but never received the promised visa. Jakkapong repeatedly requested amounts between 20,000 and 30,000 baht from Shinichi, claiming they were for operational costs. Shinichi transferred money to Jakkapong 16 times, resulting in a total loss of 300,000 baht. Jakkapong falsely attributed the delay in processing the visa to the pandemic and other reasons until Shinichi decided to take the matter to the Immigration Bureau in 2023. Immigration police reviewed Shinichi’s visa and discovered that he failed to submit some documents and engaged in bribery of officials. Shinichi asked the immigration police for advice on how to resolve the issue and renew his visa and they directed him to consult with the cyber police. Shinichi then met with a cyber police officer, who summoned Jakkapong for questioning and drafted a loan agreement between Shinichi and Jakkapong, in which Jakkapong agreed to return all the money he had swindled from Shinichi. Unexpectedly, this police officer demanded a bribe of 2,000 baht and an operational cost of 3,000 baht from Shinichi. The officer also borrowed 5,000 baht from Shinichi, promising to repay it soon. Shinichi found that his issue remained unresolved and grew concerned that the suspects might physically assault him or that he could be deported and banned from the country. Channel 7 reported that Jakkapong was recently charged in April by Petchkasem Police Station for running a visa scam on a Chinese national. Many victims have previously filed complaints against him. However, there has been no report of the next step in the legal process in this case, and the identity of the corrupt cop has not been made public. Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Australian tourists help collect rubbish on Koh Samui (video) by Puntid Tantivangphaisal video screenshot A group of Australian tourists on Koh Samui became an unexpected viral sensation by helping local municipal workers collect rubbish in the early morning hours. Their enthusiastic efforts, captured on video, brought smiles and laughter to viewers, especially Thais. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336171-australian-tourists-help-collect-rubbish-on-koh-samui-video/

video screenshot A group of Australian tourists on Koh Samui became an unexpected viral sensation by helping local municipal workers collect rubbish in the early morning hours. Their enthusiastic efforts, captured on video, brought smiles and laughter to viewers, especially Thais. The incident took place yesterday at around 4am, today, August 22, when the tourists, hanging off the back of a garbage truck, eagerly assisted in lifting and emptying bins. Their spirited participation left a lasting impression on anyone who passed by, with some even shouting praises. The video that captured this endearing moment was shared on TikTok by a user who mentioned being so charmed by the scene that they had to turn their car around to record it. “Aussie guys, it was around 4am, and we drove past them. We had to turn back to capture their cuteness. Sorry for the laughter in the background, we were drunk, and they were just too adorable.” The clip quickly gained traction online, with viewers expressing their admiration for the tourists’ unexpected act of kindness. The tourists’ actions were not only endearing but also demonstrated a sense of community and willingness to help, even while on holiday, reported KhaoSod. The video shows the group of tourists energetically lifting bins and dumping the rubbish into the truck, all while maintaining high spirits. Their cheerful attitude and willingness to get their hands dirty were met with applause and cheers from onlookers, said another unnamed resident. “It’s not often you see tourists going out of their way to help with such a thankless task. These guys are amazing! “It’s so heartwarming to see people from different parts of the world coming together and helping out, even in small ways like this. It restores your faith in humanity.” Locals who witnessed the scene expressed their gratitude and amazement at the tourists’ actions. “Seeing them help out like this so early in the morning was truly inspiring. It shows that kindness knows no boundaries.” by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Paetongtarn Thanks Leaders of India, Indonesia, Maldives, and U.S. FILE - Thailand's new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra talks to media members after receiving a royal letter of endorsement for the post at the Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed gratitude via Twitter (X) for congratulations from leaders of India, Indonesia, the Maldives, and the U.S. Secretary of State. The acknowledgments came after her recent appointment as Thailand’s Prime Minister. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336164-pm-paetongtarn-thanks-leaders-of-india-indonesia-maldives-and-us/

FILE - Thailand's new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra talks to media members after receiving a royal letter of endorsement for the post at the Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed gratitude via Twitter (X) for congratulations from leaders of India, Indonesia, the Maldives, and the U.S. Secretary of State. The acknowledgments came after her recent appointment as Thailand’s Prime Minister. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Paetongtarn with these words: “Congratulations Prime Minister Paetongtarn on your election as the Prime Minister of Thailand. Best wishes for a very successful tenure. Look forward to working with you to further strengthen the bilateral ties between India and Thailand, that are based on strong foundations of civilizational, cultural and people to people connect.” Paetongtarn responded, “Thank you, Prime Minister Modi, for your warm congratulatory message. I look forward to working closely with you to further strengthen our bilateral relations, especially in trade and investment, culture, people-to-people contact, and tourism, aiming to increase air travel between both countries. I am confident that we can build upon our existing ties and explore untapped potentials to create even greater opportunities for our two countries, peoples and beyond.” Indonesian President Joko Widodo also shared his congratulations: “I wish to congratulate Her Excellency Paetongtarn Shinawatra on her appointment as the Prime Minister of Thailand. I believe that under her able leadership, Indonesia & Thailand will continue to strengthen our bilateral relations and beyond, including on enhancing cooperation within ASEAN.” To this, Paetongtarn replied, “Thank you, President Joko Widodo, for your kind words of congratulations. Thailand and Indonesia have always been good friends and partners in ASEAN. As we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Thailand – Indonesia diplomatic relations in 2025, I look forward to strengthening cooperation for mutual benefits.” The President of Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, extended his warm wishes: “Warm congratulations to Prime Minister Paetongtarn on being appointed as the youngest Prime Minister of Thailand. Thailand is poised to enter a new era of prosperity under your able leadership. I look forward to working together to further strengthen the close ties of friendship and mutual cooperation between the Maldives and Thailand.” Paetongtarn responded, “Thank you, President Muizzu, for your kind congratulations and confidence in my leadership. Thailand values its long-standing relations with the Maldives. I look forward to enhancing our partnership in all sectors.” Finally, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken congratulated her with the message, “Congratulations to Prime Minister Paetongtarn on her selection as Thailand’s next prime minister. We look forward to engaging with Prime Minister Paetongtarn to further strengthen the enduring alliance between the United States and Thailand.” The Prime Minister expressed gratitude, “Thank you, Secretary Blinken, for the congratulatory message. I look forward to working closely with the U.S. to strengthen our long-standing alliance and advance our multi-faceted partnership for the benefit of our countries, peoples, and the region.” These responses reflect Paetongtarn's commitment to fostering strong international relationships and enhancing diplomatic ties, reported Pattaya Mail. -- 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin to deliver special address at ‘Dinner Talk – Vision for Thailand 2024’ event By Pattaya Mail In related news, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is scheduled to deliver a special address on August 22 at the “Dinner Talk: Vision for Thailand 2024” event. BANGKOK, Thailand – The flagship policy of distributing 10,000 baht via digital wallets, initially promoted by the Pheu Thai Party under the Srettha government, and now under the leadership of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has faced rumors of potential cancellation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336162-thaksin-to-deliver-special-address-at-‘dinner-talk-–-vision-for-thailand-2024’-event/

In related news, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is scheduled to deliver a special address on August 22 at the “Dinner Talk: Vision for Thailand 2024” event. By Pattaya Mail BANGKOK, Thailand – The flagship policy of distributing 10,000 baht via digital wallets, initially promoted by the Pheu Thai Party under the Srettha government, and now under the leadership of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, has faced rumors of potential cancellation. However, recent reports suggest that the project will move forward with adjustments focusing on supporting vulnerable groups. Deputy Finance Minister Julapan Amornwiwat on August 21 confirmed that the digital wallet initiative is still viable and progressing, although specific details have not yet been disclosed. He assured that a formal announcement will be made once the process is finalized. According to an insider source, the project will begin by distributing cash directly to vulnerable groups who have previously registered for assistance. This will be part of a broader allocation of 122 billion baht, as recently approved by the parliament. Instead of the initial plan to use digital wallet technology, the funds will be distributed as a one-time cash payment of 10,000 baht through the State Welfare Card program. Full story: PATTAYA MAIL 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Aggressive Driver Threatens Women at Buriram Training Centre video screenshot อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 7 Facebook A man in his mid-forties drove a black Ford Everest aggressively into a university, verbally abusing a group of women aged around 50, claiming they had cut him off while driving. Police are now investigating the incident. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336159-aggressive-driver-threatens-women-at-buriram-training-centre/

video screenshot อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 7 Facebook A man in his mid-forties drove a black Ford Everest aggressively into a university, verbally abusing a group of women aged around 50, claiming they had cut him off while driving. Police are now investigating the incident. Yesterday, a group of residents from Thai Charoen, Moo 4, Hu Thanop, Pakam district, Buriram, filed a report at Pakam Police Station. They reported being harassed by a man aged 45 to 50 years at a training centre within a university. Before filing the report, they shared a clip of the incident on the Facebook page อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 7 to warn others about the potential danger. The clip showed the man attempting to assault a group of five women. Despite the intervention, he threw a shoe at them and threatened to return and cause more trouble. The residents recorded the incident and captured the vehicle’s details: a black Ford Everest with the registration number กบ 4465 Chanthaburi. Kingkaew Boonsuk, a 52-year-old woman, recounted that they were attending a five-day training programme aimed at enhancing the skills and income of locals. On the second day, a participant on a motorcycle mentioned a near-collision with a car while turning into the university. Shortly after, the same Ford Everest sped into the university, and its driver began shouting at the recent arrivals, accusing them of cutting him off. Kingkaew, who was nearby, tried to intervene and reason with the man. However, he turned his aggression towards her, attempting to punch her multiple times before university staff intervened. The man then climbed onto a balcony, removed his shoes, and threw them at Kingkaew twice while shouting obscenities. He appeared visibly intoxicated and extremely agitated. Before driving away, he threatened, “I will come back for you.” Fearing for their safety, the villagers decided to report the incident to the police. Arun Charoenphiw, a 55-year-old woman, explained that she was one of the people the man had targeted. She and two friends were on a motorcycle, preparing to turn right into the training centre. Upon checking behind them, they saw the fast-approaching car and swerved to the left to avoid a collision. The car sped past them, causing a strong gust of wind. Initially, they thought the incident was over, but the man turned his car around and came back to confront them. She admitted it was a frightening experience, especially since the training centre is far from the nearest village. Police Colonel Chisanupong Thiankittipong, the superintendent of Pakam Police Station, confirmed that they have identified the vehicle’s registration. They plan to summon the driver for questioning. -- 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thunderstorms predicted for 33 provinces with heavy rain in the north by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Dominik QN, Unsplash The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has predicted thunderstorms tomorrow in 33 provinces, with the northern region seeing the heaviest rainfall, affecting 80% of the area. Continuous heavy rain is expected, with warnings of potential flash floods and landslides. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336155-thunderstorms-predicted-for-33-provinces-with-heavy-rain-in-the-north/

Thailand Meteorological Department (TMD) has predicted thunderstorms tomorrow in 33 provinces, with the northern region seeing the heaviest rainfall, affecting 80% of the area. Continuous heavy rain is expected, with warnings of potential flash floods and landslides. TMD has issued a weather forecast for the next 24 hours, predicting continuous rainfall in many areas of the upper northern region. Heavy to very heavy rainfall is expected in some spots. The northeast, central, and eastern regions will also experience heavy rain in certain areas. Residents in these regions have been advised to stay vigilant for the dangers of heavy to very heavy rainfall and accumulated rain, which could lead to flash floods and water runoff, particularly in hilly areas, near waterways, and low-lying areas. The Department of Mineral Resources has also issued warnings for landslides and flash floods in 12 provinces, particularly in the upper northern region, where heavy rain is expected in 70% of the area. Other regions, including Bangkok, will continue to experience rain in some areas. This weather pattern is due to the monsoon trough passing over the upper northern region and upper Laos into a low-pressure cell over northern Vietnam. Additionally, southeasterly and southwesterly winds are prevailing over the upper northeast, while the southwest monsoon continues to cover the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. In the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, waves are expected to reach about 1 metre, with higher waves in areas experiencing thunderstorms. Mariners are advised to avoid sailing in these conditions. Heavy rain In the northern region, thunderstorms are expected in 80% of the area, with heavy to very heavy rain in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phayao, Phrae, Nan, Tak, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun provinces. Temperatures will range from 23 to 26 degrees Celsius for the minimum and 27 to 33 degrees Celsius for the maximum, with southwesterly winds at speeds of 5 to 15 kilometres per hour. The northeast will see thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, and Nakhon Phanom provinces. Minimum temperatures will be between 24 and 26 degrees Celsius, and maximum temperatures will range from 31 to 35 degrees Celsius, with southwesterly winds at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. In the central region, thunderstorms are expected in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in Lopburi and Saraburi provinces. Minimum temperatures will range from 23 to 26 degrees Celsius, and maximum temperatures will be between 34 and 35 degrees Celsius, with southwesterly winds at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The eastern region will also experience thunderstorms in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in Nakhon Nayok, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces. Temperatures will be between 25 and 27 degrees Celsius for the minimum and 33 to 35 degrees Celsius for the maximum, with southwesterly winds at speeds of 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. Waves will reach about 1 metre, with higher waves in thunderstorms. In the southern region (eastern coast), 40% of the area will see thunderstorms, mostly in Phetchaburi, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and Songkhla provinces. Minimum temperatures will range from 23 to 26 degrees Celsius, and maximum temperatures will be between 33 and 36 degrees Celsius, with southwesterly winds at speeds of 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. Waves will reach about 1 metre, with higher waves in thunderstorms. The southern region (western coast) will experience thunderstorms in 60% of the area, mostly in Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun provinces. Minimum temperatures will be between 23 and 25 degrees Celsius, and maximum temperatures will range from 33 to 35 degrees Celsius, with southwesterly winds at speeds of 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. Waves will reach about 1 metre, with higher waves in thunderstorms, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and its vicinity will have thunderstorms in 60% of the area. Minimum temperatures will range from 25 to 27 degrees Celsius, and maximum temperatures will be between 33 and 35 degrees Celsius, with southwesterly winds at speeds of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Dominik QN, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Pidok Sooksawas: From High-Flyer to Thailand’s First Gentleman Picture courtesy: thansettakij Pidok Sooksawas, originally from Nakhon Si Thammarat, has transitioned from being an airline pilot to Thailand’s First Gentleman. He is the husband of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the new Prime Minister from the ruling Pheu Thai Party, who he married in 2019. Their wedding, held in Hong Kong, was a grand affair presided over by Princess Ubolratana. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336154-pidok-sooksawas-from-high-flyer-to-thailand’s-first-gentleman/

Pidok Sooksawas, originally from Nakhon Si Thammarat, has transitioned from being an airline pilot to Thailand’s First Gentleman. He is the husband of Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the new Prime Minister from the ruling Pheu Thai Party, who he married in 2019. Their wedding, held in Hong Kong, was a grand affair presided over by Princess Ubolratana. Pidok has been a constant source of support for Paetongtarn, especially during her political endeavours. "I’m here to offer her moral support. I want her to feel secure when she looks around and sees me," he says. His role is pivotal, particularly in alleviating her stress and providing emotional support. The couple has two young children: a three-year-old daughter and a 16-month-old son. Born in 1982, Pidok was considered one of the country's most eligible bachelors. His impressive height and a degree in mechanical engineering from King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang added to his charm. He initially pursued a career as an airline pilot but had to give it up due to his mother-in-law's concerns about the risks. After stepping away from piloting, Pidok co-founded MWP Co Ltd, a company operating from Shinawatra Tower 3, with a registered capital of 5 million baht, reported Thai PBS. Although the company has yet to turn a profit, Pidok has almost 1.65 million baht in stake. His wife, Paetongtarn, holds shareholdings worth over 9.33 billion baht, including a significant stake in Rende Development, where Pidok serves as chief deputy officer of investment. Despite his prominent familial ties, Pidok has managed to maintain a low profile, even as he supports his wife during public events. However, with Paetongtarn now being the country's most powerful person, it remains to be seen if he can continue to shy away from the political spotlight. An avid Liverpool FC fan for over two decades, Pidok's dedication to his favourite team epitomises his loyalty, a trait that he consistently demonstrates in his personal and professional life. Picture courtesy: thansettakij -- 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Fatal Motorcycle Crash on Phahonyothin Road: One Dead, Two Critical Picture courtesy: Khaosod A tragic motorcycle collision along Phahonyothin Road has left a community in mourning. The accident, which occurred yesterday near the Thoen bus terminal in Lampang's Thoen district, resulted in the death of a 66-year-old mechanic and critically injured two young men. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336153-fatal-motorcycle-crash-on-phahonyothin-road-one-dead-two-critical/

A tragic motorcycle collision along Phahonyothin Road has left a community in mourning. The accident, which occurred yesterday near the Thoen bus terminal in Lampang's Thoen district, resulted in the death of a 66-year-old mechanic and critically injured two young men. The accident took place at a U-turn spot as one motorcycle, believed to have been travelling against traffic, collided head-on with another. Police Captain Satean Phanthariyasatean of Thoen Police Station received the distress call and swiftly dispatched medical personnel and rescue teams from Tha Kham Hospital and the Lom Raet Municipality Rescue Unit to the scene. Upon arrival, rescue workers discovered the lifeless body of Chan, a 66-year-old local mechanic, lying next to his overturned black Honda motorcycle. Chan, who worked at a garage just 500 metres from the accident site, was pronounced dead at the scene. Nearby, responders found a blue Yamaha motorcycle also overturned with two helmets scattered on the ground. The two remaining victims, both men aged between 25 and 30, sustained severe injuries and were rushed to Lampang Hospital for emergency treatment. Preliminary investigations indicate that the tragic incident might have been caused by one of the motorcycles riding against the traffic flow. Authorities plan to scrutinise CCTV footage from the vicinity to establish the precise cause. Chan’s body has been sent to the hospital for a post-mortem examination before being released to his family for funeral rites. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 22 August 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336151-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-22-august-2024/

The Thailand Consumer Council has urged the public sector to subsidize public transport fares using funds from vehicle, land, and windfall taxes. This proposal was made during a meeting focused on creating a safer, fairer public transport system. The TCC president criticized Thailand’s transport development for excluding consumer input, saying it prioritizes Bangkok while neglecting provincial areas. Elderly people from an ethnic minority group in Chinag rai are calling on the government to speed up the process to grant them Thai citizenship, The Community Development Foundation says over 13 hundred applications were made between 2014 and 2017, but only 239 have been approved. Most of the group migrated from southern China and have been living in Thailand for more than 50 years, adding that some of them have died while waiting for Thai nationality. Around the region Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said the government will go after the “culprits” responsible for the escape of a former town mayor who is being investigated for her alleged ties to Chinese criminal syndicates. Alice Guo, also identified as Chinese national had managed to leave the country, and is believed to be in Indonesia after travelling via Malaysia and Singapore. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: thundershowers 30C degrees celsius Bangkok: Bright, cloudy thundershowers,34 Pattaya: Cloudy with showers32 Phuket and the south: thunderstorms, 30 Hua Hin: sunny becoming cloudy isolated showers 33C 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 2024-08-05 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Severe Flooding in Chiang Rai Claims Two Lives Picture courtesy: Kaosod Heavy rains in Chiang Rai have wreaked havoc, causing severe flooding that has tragically claimed two lives and trapped 20 individuals in a convenience store. The flooding has also submerged an extensive 15,000 rai of farmland, predominantly rice fields. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336150-severe-flooding-in-chiang-rai-claims-two-lives/

Heavy rains in Chiang Rai have wreaked havoc, causing severe flooding that has tragically claimed two lives and trapped 20 individuals in a convenience store. The flooding has also submerged an extensive 15,000 rai of farmland, predominantly rice fields. Continuous torrential downpours have led to significant water level rises in several rivers, with the Ing River being particularly affected. Originating from Kwan Phayao and flowing through Thoeng and Khun Tan districts before merging with the Mekong River in Chiang Khong, the river's swelling has resulted in widespread flooding. The first victim of the flooding, a 77-year-old man from Pong Noi village, tragically drowned while fishing in a flooded rice field in Doi Luang district. The second victim, a 39-year-old woman from Tap Tao subdistrict in Thoeng district, went missing following a flash flood on August 17. Her body was later found in the Hong River in Sai Khat village, Tap Tao. Local officials reported that the Pang Kha Bridge in Tap Tao, Thoeng district, has become impassable after being washed away by the rising floodwaters. Moreover, twenty individuals are currently trapped in a 7-Eleven convenience store in Ian Village, Hong subdistrict, Thoeng district. With water levels reaching between 1 and 1.5 metres, an urgent rescue operation is in progress. In an unrelated but equally distressing incident, Khao Sok National Park rangers and rescuers successfully saved a Thai tour guide and 22 foreign tourists from a flash flood while they were exploring Nam Talu Cave in Surat Thani province. Unfortunately, another Thai tour guide was reported missing during the floods and was later found deceased inside the cave. The flash flood, which occurred on the evening of August 6, was attributed to heavy rainfall over the preceding days. The Thai tour guide who reported the incident believed the rains triggered the sudden and devastating flood. Authorities are intensifying rescue efforts and providing aid to those affected as the region grapples with the aftermath of this severe weather event. Picture courtesy: Kaosod -- 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Disciplinary Case of 'Big Joke' Sees Significant Progress Pictures courtesy: Thai Rath The disciplinary case involving Pol. Gen. Surachet Hakparn, widely known as "Big Joke," has moved significantly forward. Pol. Gen. Sarawut Karnphanich, Deputy Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, revealed that the case might reach a conclusion by the end of the month. This announcement comes after three out of five key witnesses appeared for questioning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336149-disciplinary-case-of-big-joke-sees-significant-progress/

The disciplinary case involving Pol. Gen. Surachet Hakparn, widely known as "Big Joke," has moved significantly forward. Pol. Gen. Sarawut Karnphanich, Deputy Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, revealed that the case might reach a conclusion by the end of the month. This announcement comes after three out of five key witnesses appeared for questioning. On August 21, at the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) headquarters, Pol. Gen. Sarawut provided an update on the investigation. Surachet, formerly the Deputy Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, is embroiled in an online gambling scandal. Today's update followed testimonies from members of the investigation team, including Pol. Lt. Gen. Naphawat Arayangkun, Pol. Maj. Gen. Wiwat Chaisangkha, and Pol. Maj. Gen. Montree Thesakan, reported Thai Rath. Pol. Gen. Sarawut mentioned that five witnesses linked to the accused had been called. Although their identities were not disclosed, it was confirmed they were all police officers. Additionally, Pol. Col. Pakphum Phitsamai, previously the commander of Investigation Division 4, appeared but only in an advisory capacity, not as a witness. The investigation committee has granted Surachet the right to present additional witnesses. These witnesses will be scrutinised to determine whether their testimonies offer substantial evidence. If the committee determines that the testimonies are insufficient, they may terminate the investigation early. Sarawut assured that the committee would proceed fairly, basing its decisions strictly on the facts. When questioned about a related document submitted by Pol. Lt. Col. Krits Pariyaket, involving a financial trail linked to an online gambling site, Sarawut stated he had not yet reviewed the document but believed it to be a separate matter. Following a three-hour meeting, Pol. Gen. Sarawut noted that only three out of the five summoned witnesses had appeared. Their statements, albeit lacking supporting documents, were deemed somewhat useful. The investigation is making notable progress, and a timeline for the remaining tasks will soon be established. The case's resolution is expected by the end of this month. If the findings are against Big Joke, immediate charges will be filed to allow Surachet an opportunity to present a defence. Pictures courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Laotian Vendor Arrested for Illegal Pork Cooking Classes Picture courtesy: Daily News In a surprising turn of events, Thai authorities arrested a Laotian national, Ms. Aed, for running unauthorised sun-dried pork cooking courses in Prawet, Bangkok. Ms. Aed, 29, better known online as “Nui Inter,” was apprehended around 3 PM on August 21, following a tip-off from a concerned citizen. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336148-laotian-vendor-arrested-for-illegal-pork-cooking-classes/

In a surprising turn of events, Thai authorities arrested a Laotian national, Ms. Aed, for running unauthorised sun-dried pork cooking courses in Prawet, Bangkok. Ms. Aed, 29, better known online as “Nui Inter,” was apprehended around 3 PM on August 21, following a tip-off from a concerned citizen. Police Colonel Prasart Khemaprasit, alongside other high-ranking officials from Immigration Bureau 1, spearheaded a joint operation with the Department of Employment. They swooped down on a residence located in Soi On Nut 66, where Ms. Aed had allegedly sold sun-dried pork and offered cooking classes via Facebook live streams. Upon arrival, officers found Ms. Aed in front of her house. Through a preliminary inspection and confirmation from the online videos and posts, it was clear that she was indeed the person behind the operations. The officers discovered that Ms. Aed had been preparing and selling the sun-dried pork herself, as well as charging foreigners for lessons on how to produce the delicacy. Ms. Aed admitted to the charges and confessed that she was the individual conducting the live broadcasts and organising the cooking courses. This confession led to her immediate arrest for working beyond the limits of her permitted rights as an alien and failing to notify the registrar as required by law. The arrest followed detailed collaboration between the Investigation Division of Immigration Bureau 1 and the Department of Employment. Acting on credible information, they were able to confirm the violation and put a stop to the unauthorised activities. Ms. Aed was taken to the Prawet Police Station, where she now faces legal proceedings for her actions. Authorities are urging citizens to adhere strictly to the guidelines set for foreign workers and to notify relevant bodies if they suspect any activities breaching these laws. The operation reflects Thailand's commitment to regulating foreign employment and protecting the integrity of its labour market. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-08-22 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe