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Naked Foreigner Rescued from Cow Attack in Dramatic Incident Photo composite courtesy: Daily News In a bizarre and startling turn of events on the evening of 15th August, rescue teams in Ban Na Derm, Surat Thani Province, were called to a scene where a naked foreign man was aggressively being gored by a cow. The incident unfolded along Highway 41 at the intersection with Highway 44. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335641-naked-foreigner-rescued-from-cow-attack-in-dramatic-incident/

Photo composite courtesy: Daily News In a bizarre and startling turn of events on the evening of 15th August, rescue teams in Ban Na Derm, Surat Thani Province, were called to a scene where a naked foreign man was aggressively being gored by a cow. The incident unfolded along Highway 41 at the intersection with Highway 44. The Kusonsattha Foundation rescue team received an urgent report at 5:40 p.m. and hurried to the location along with police officers. Upon arrival, they discovered a naked man in the forest next to the road. He was clinging desperately to the head of a female brown cow, visibly battered and bruised from the encounter. Rescue workers attempted to intervene, but the agitated cow was relentless. Efforts to restrain it failed, prompting the team to seek out the cow's owner. With the owner's intervention, the cow was finally calmed, and the man was extricated from the dangerous situation. He was transported to Ban Na Derm Hospital for medical evaluation. However, he astoundingly refused treatment and left the hospital immediately to return home. Locals provided some insight into the preceding events. Earlier in the day, the man was seen riding a motorcycle, which he parked under the bridge near the intersection of Route 44 due to a flat tire. Ignoring the minor inconvenience, he ventured into the forest. It wasn't long before villagers were alarmed by loud cries for help. They discovered the man, now inexplicably naked, being aggressively pursued and gored by the cow, reported Dailt News. The reason behind the man's peculiar actions remains unclear, leaving the community puzzled and concerned. Speculations abound, ranging from possible mental distress to the effects of substances, but no definitive explanations have surfaced. Local authorities are expected to continue their investigation into this unusual incident, seeking to understand and prevent such occurrences in the future. Meanwhile, the story has captured the attention and bewilderment of the local community, leaving them to ponder the curious and dangerous afternoon on their otherwise quiet roadside. -- 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe Thairath video https://cdn.jwplayer.com/previews/bXdlFD0M

Thailand Cracks Down on Foreign Businesses to Protect Local SMEs Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand The Department of Business Development (DBD) in Thailand is ramping up efforts to strictly enforce laws surrounding foreign businesses to ensure fair competition for Thai entrepreneurs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335638-thailand-cracks-down-on-foreign-businesses-to-protect-local-smes/

The Department of Business Development (DBD) in Thailand is ramping up efforts to strictly enforce laws surrounding foreign businesses to ensure fair competition for Thai entrepreneurs. Director-General Auramon Supthaweethum has confirmed the department's resolve to work closely with law enforcement to ensure compliance, particularly targeting foreign enterprises that might exploit nominee shareholders to bypass the 1999 Foreign Business Act. Offenders of these regulations will face stringent penalties under the new, robust enforcement strategy. Auramon stressed the department's proactive stance in supporting Thai small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly as the fast-expanding online commerce sector introduces low-cost products that challenge local businesses. To counter these threats and bolster Thai SMEs, the DBD has crafted nine strategic measures aimed at enhancing their competitiveness, reported NNT. Among these measures are initiatives to broaden online market channels, boost e-commerce capabilities, and promote unique Thai community products. Additionally, efforts are being made to secure affordable sales spaces for businesses and equip SMEs with vital business knowledge and digital tools necessary for modern enterprise. Integration of business networks through initiatives like the MOC Biz Club, and support for the growth of local franchises, are also key focus areas. The DBD is taking steps to modernize traditional retail stores, enabling their participation in the broader supply chain, and ensuring they are not left behind amid rapid market changes. These concerted actions underscore the DBD's commitment to providing Thai SMEs with the necessary edge to thrive in an increasingly competitive global market. By enforcing foreign business laws more rigorously and fortifying local businesses with strategic support, the department aims to foster a resilient and fair business environment, ensuring sustainable growth for Thai entrepreneurs. TOP Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand -- 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Woman Charged for Blocking Parking Space with Traffic Cone in Patong By Goongnang Suksawat Patong, Phuket– A Thai woman has been charged after using a traffic cone to reserve a parking space on a public roadside in Patong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335637-woman-charged-for-blocking-parking-space-with-traffic-cone-in-patong/

Patong, Phuket– A Thai woman has been charged after using a traffic cone to reserve a parking space on a public roadside in Patong. The Patong Police informed the Phuket Express that a video clip showing the woman placing a traffic cone to block a parking area went viral on social media this week. Following the viral video, police tracked down the woman, identified only as Ms. Sompong, a Thai national. Ms. Sompong was summoned to the Patong Police Station, where she was charged with blocking traffic without permission. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Hoteliers Unimpressed by New Tax Incentives to Boost Thai Tourism Picture courtesy: Bestagency The Thai government's recent tax incentives aimed at boosting tourism in secondary provinces have been met with scepticism by the country's hoteliers. Despite the effort to encourage growth through financial benefits, hotel entrepreneurs’ response has been notably lukewarm. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335636-hoteliers-unimpressed-by-new-tax-incentives-to-boost-thai-tourism/

The Thai government's recent tax incentives aimed at boosting tourism in secondary provinces have been met with scepticism by the country's hoteliers. Despite the effort to encourage growth through financial benefits, hotel entrepreneurs’ response has been notably lukewarm. In a survey carried out by the Thai Hotels Association (THA) in collaboration with the Bank of Thailand, the latest hospitality operators’ confidence index revealed that 50% of the 102 respondents expect the new tax policy to increase their income by just 5% this year. Most of the remaining respondents anticipate no more than a 10% rise in income. Yesterday, THA President Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun highlighted a critical issue that the policy overlooks—the chronic shortage of skilled workers, affecting around 40% of hotel operators surveyed. Thienprasit pointed out that without addressing workforce needs, the impact of tax incentives could remain minimal. The survey also illuminated the revenue breakdown for hotels, showing that 70% of their income comes from tourist customers, with less than 20% originating from the business sector, known as the MICE group (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions). This sheds light on a disconnect, as the government’s tourism push is heavily directed towards the MICE segment in secondary provinces, reported The Nation. Adding to the complexity, in the third quarter of this year, more than half of the hotel operators increased their room rates compared to the previous year. Most 4-star establishments limited their price hikes to within 10%, reflecting cautious optimism about the potential influx of tourists. Hoteliers are calling for more substantial support measures. Their proposals include subsidies for utility costs, a delay in raising the minimum wage, and reductions in land and building taxes. They also seek broader tax deductions on business expenses. Thienprasit stressed the urgent need for governmental intervention in resolving labour shortages. Hoteliers are advocating for the creation of a dedicated agency to source skilled workers and provide vital training, particularly in language skills, for existing staff. TOP Picture courtesy: Bestagency -- 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Woman Criticised for Offering Pay for Extra Luggage Space on Japan Flight A woman from Thailand faced harsh criticism online after posting a request for someone to transport her additional luggage to Japan for a fee. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335610-thai-woman-criticised-for-offering-pay-for-extra-luggage-space-on-japan-flight/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 16 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1335635-thailand-live-friday-16-august-2024/

Bhumjaithai to Back Pheu Thai's Prime Minister Candidate, But with a Condition File photo for reference only The Bhumjaithai party will back any candidate from the Pheu Thai party for the Prime Minister's position, as long as they do not support a change in Article 112 of the Penal Code, said Bhumjaithai's party leader, Anutin Charnvirakul on Thursday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335596-bhumjaithai-to-back-pheu-thais-prime-minister-candidate-but-with-a-condition/

Leader of Pheu Thai Party, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, wave before press conference in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Paetongtarn Shinawatra to be Nominated as Thailand's New PM The Pheu Thai Party has announced that it will nominate Paetongtarn Shinawatra as its candidate for Prime Minister to succeed Srettha Thavisin, who was removed from office by the Constitutional Court on Wednesday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335634-paetongtarn-shinawatra-to-be-nominated-as-thailands-new-pm/

Leader of Pheu Thai Party, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, daughter of Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, wave before press conference in Bangkok, Thailand, Thursday, Aug. 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) The Pheu Thai Party has announced that it will nominate Paetongtarn Shinawatra as its candidate for Prime Minister to succeed Srettha Thavisin, who was removed from office by the Constitutional Court on Wednesday. Paetongtarn, 37, the youngest daughter of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, was elected as the Pheu Thai leader last October. If elected by parliament during a special session today (Friday), she would become Thailand's 31st and youngest-ever Prime Minister, the second female to hold the position, and the third Shinawatra family member to do so, following her father Thaksin and her aunt Yingluck Shinawatra. The press conference announcing her nomination was attended by government coalition leaders who expressed their support, making her political future appear assured. "We are confident that we will work together to help the country move past its economic problems and advance into the future," Paetongtarn said, thanking both the public and the coalition government parties for their support. Initially, a meeting of government whips at Thaksin’s residence had agreed to nominate Chaikasem Nitisiri, 76, as their candidate. However, a meeting of Pheu Thai MPs today decided to nominate Paetongtarn instead. Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul also expressed his full support for Paetongtarn. "All the parties in the coalition government show their spirit in working together to ensure continuity in running the country," said Anutin, whose Bhumjaithai Party is the second biggest partner in the coalition. His endorsement is crucial. Paetongtarn, nicknamed “Ung-ing,” was born in the United States on August 21st, 1986, to Thaksin and Potjaman Na Pombejra. She has a bachelor's degree in political science from Chulalongkorn University and a master's in international hotel management from the University of Surrey in England reported Thai PBS. Before her political career, she was a major shareholder in SC Asset Corporation and held shares in around 20 other companies in real estate, telecom, and media sectors. She has experience as the chief executive of Rende Development Co. Ltd. Married to airline pilot Pidok Sooksawas, with whom she has two children, Paetongtarn was recently appointed as deputy chair of two national committees, on soft power strategy and public health system development, under Srettha’s government. -- 2024-08-16 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai police arrest fraudsters behind billion baht investment scam by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Thai police apprehended members of a fraudulent investment scheme involving a false claim of raising funds to list shares on the American stock market, resulting in over 1 billion baht in financial damages. Arrest warrants reveal 59 charges against the suspects. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335557-thai-police-arrest-fraudsters-behind-billion-baht-investment-scam/

Thai police apprehended members of a fraudulent investment scheme involving a false claim of raising funds to list shares on the American stock market, resulting in over 1 billion baht in financial damages. Arrest warrants reveal 59 charges against the suspects. Police Major General Phutthidej Boonkrapue, Head of the Economic Crime Suppression Division, directed the operation led by Police Colonel Mekphisarn Sripirom and Police Lieutenant Suttipong Monrat. The suspects, 52 year old Kanyapak and 30 year old Nakharin, were captured on a roadside in Phasi Charoen District, Bangkok. The case traces back to 2016, when the suspects, along with accomplices, established a direct-sales company promoting health products. They falsely claimed that the company would list its shares on the American stock market to attract investments. They promised high returns and special share prices for those who could recruit additional investors. Seminars and workshops were organised to educate potential investors on fundraising and stock savings, thereby enhancing the scheme’s credibility. A large number of people fell for the scam, investing substantial amounts of money. However, no returns or dividends were paid out, and the shares were never actually listed on the stock market as promised. This deception led to financial losses exceeding 1 billion baht (US$28.4 million), prompting numerous victims to file complaints across various jurisdictions, ultimately leading to the issuance of multiple arrest warrants, reported KhaoSod. The police discovered that the suspects, who held executive positions in the company and faced over 59 arrest warrants, had fled and were hiding in Bangkok. The police successfully apprehended them, although both suspects denied the charges during interrogation. They were subsequently handed over to the investigators for further legal proceedings. In related news, police apprehended a company executive accused of fraudulently selling non-existent tours, leaving customers stranded and causing an estimated 8 million baht in damages. Despite the allegations, the executive denies the tour fraud charges but admits to receiving a monthly salary of 100,000 baht. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fate of digital wallet scheme unclear after Srettha’s departure by Petch Petpailin Photo by Sakchai Lalit via AP and InfoQuest The future of the 10,000 baht digital wallet scheme has become unclear after the departure of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The Pheu Thai Party secretary-general insisted that it would continue, while the former deputy finance minister expressed doubts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335553-fate-of-digital-wallet-scheme-unclear-after-srettha’s-departure/

The future of the 10,000 baht digital wallet scheme has become unclear after the departure of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The Pheu Thai Party secretary-general insisted that it would continue, while the former deputy finance minister expressed doubts. The Constitutional Court, yesterday, August 14, removed former PM Srettha from office following a serious violation of political ethics. The former PM wrongfully appointed Phichit Chienban, who lacked the necessary qualifications, as a minister. Aside from the impact on the entire Cabinet, Srettha’s departure also sent shockwaves through Thai society, particularly among those looking forward to receiving the 10,000 baht in digital money promised as part of Srettha’s main campaign. Thai PBS reported that vendors in the Isaan province of Mahasarakham were not disappointed by the removal of the former PM, stating that he and his Cabinet had failed to address the economic issues as expected. However, they expressed concern that the digital wallet project might be discontinued without Srettha. Another group expressed worries that their personal information, provided during registration for the policy on August 1, might be leaked and used illegally beyond its original purpose. Sorrawong Thienthong, the Secretary-General of the Pheu Thai Party, gave an interview yesterday about the digital wallet policy, confirming that the project would continue because it was a significant campaign promise of the party and the coalition government parties supported it. Sorrawong added that the party would hold an official meeting after party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra returns to Thailand from an overseas visit. Finance ministry uncertain Former Deputy Minister of Finance from the Pheu Thai Party, Julapun Amornvivat, expressed uncertainty, saying that the project might be affected and obstructed and that it was beyond his control. He also mentioned that he was unsure whether he would have the opportunity to oversee the project in the new Cabinet. Julapun disclosed that he could not confirm whether the project would continue, as it would depend on the agreement of each party member. According to a report from BangkokBizNews, the House of Representatives will meet tomorrow, August 16, at 10am to select the new PM of Thailand and appoint new Cabinet members. During the transition, Srettha is unable to perform his duties, so former Deputy PM Phumtham Wechayachai is now acting in his place. Other members of the Cabinet will also continue their work until the new Cabinet is established. Seven candidates for the upcoming PM selection have emerged from five coalition government parties. The former advisor to the ex-PM from the Pheu Thai Party, Chaikasem Nitisiri, has emerged as the strongest candidate, having been previously proposed as a prime ministerial candidate in both 2019 and 2023. However, some have pointed out that Chaikasem might face the same fate as Srettha, as he was also involved in the case involving Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife, similar to Phichit, who led to Srettha’s expulsion. by Petch Petpailin Photo by Sakchai Lalit via AP and InfoQuest Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chiang Mai baht bus driver condemned for kicking locals off for foreigners by Petch Petpailin Photo via MGR Online A Thai woman took to social media to condemn the wrongful behaviour of a baht bus driver in Chiang Mai after the driver kicked her off the vehicle to accommodate a group of foreigners. However, the foreigners declined the driver’s service. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335551-chiang-mai-baht-bus-driver-condemned-for-kicking-locals-off-for-foreigners/

A Thai woman took to social media to condemn the wrongful behaviour of a baht bus driver in Chiang Mai after the driver kicked her off the vehicle to accommodate a group of foreigners. However, the foreigners declined the driver’s service. The 63 year old victim, Sri, shared the baht bus incident in a Facebook group, @ChiangMai, on August 13. She posted a picture and a video of the baht bus with a caption that read… “Everyone should definitely avoid this red baht bus. The driver kicked me off mid-journey to pick up foreigners, hoping to get more money from them.” Sri’s post was later deleted, possibly due to pressure from a representative of the red baht bus drivers in Chiang Mai, urging her to protect their reputation. However, the pictures and video were widely shared by Thai news agencies. In an interview with ThaiRath, Sri provided further details of the incident. She explained that she and her friend wanted to go to Kom Market in the city centre of Chiang Mai, so they waited for a baht bus at the Nawarat Bridge near their homes. They flagged down a baht bus driven by an elderly man and informed him of their destination. They then paid the driver 30 baht each for the fare. Less than five minutes into the journey, the driver stopped in front of a group of four or five foreigners on Kampaengdin Road. The driver then approached Sri and her friend, asking them to leave the vehicle, assuring them he would return their money. Driver avoids confrontation Sri immediately realised that the driver intended to pick up the foreigners in hopes of earning more from them. Angered by his unfair actions, she confronted the driver and took a picture and video of the baht bus and the driver, which she shared on social media. According to Sri, the driver ignored her complaint and quickly offered his service to the foreigners. However, the group declined his service after witnessing how poorly he treated Sri and her friend. After being rejected, the driver returned to Sri, pleading with her to continue the ride, but she and her friend refused. The driver then asked Sri to delete the picture and video and even attempted to snatch her mobile phone but he was unsuccessful. Sri added that she had been using the red baht buses in Chiang Mai for more than 10 years but this was her first negative experience. Boonniam Boontam, President of the Nakhon Lanna Transportation Cooperative, which oversees the red baht buses in Chiang Mai, told MGR Online that the incident tarnished the reputation of the red buses in the province, and he planned to summon the driver in question for a warning. Boonniam stated that he tried to contact the driver but was unsuccessful. He promised to dismiss the driver if he refused to improve his service standards. by Petch Petpailin Photo via MGR Online Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Undercover police shoot man dead in Bangkok alley by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A man was shot dead in a Bangkok alley by undercover police, raising questions from the deceased’s brother about the necessity of the force used. The incident took place at 1.30am today, August 15, within Soi Narathiwat Ratchanakarin 1, Suriyawong, Bang Rak district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335549-undercover-police-shoot-man-dead-in-bangkok-alley/

A man was shot dead in a Bangkok alley by undercover police, raising questions from the deceased’s brother about the necessity of the force used. The incident took place at 1.30am today, August 15, within Soi Narathiwat Ratchanakarin 1, Suriyawong, Bang Rak district. Police Lieutenant Colonel Saknarind Trasukupap from Bang Rak Police Station received the emergency call about the fatal shooting. He arrived at the scene with Police Colonel Thammasak Saraboon, Deputy Superintendent Tharet Wongwananurak, and other investigative officers. Forensic experts, a medical examiner from the Police General Hospital, and volunteers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation also attended. At the scene, the body of 46 year old Mongkol, was found lying face down in a pool of blood. He was wearing a long-sleeved black t-shirt and three-quarter jeans. His body bore six gunshot wounds — one under the left breast, one in the middle of his torso, one under his navel, and three on his back. Nearby, a 9mm handgun was found with five bullets in the magazine and one in the chamber. Mongkol’s Honda PCX motorbike was parked with the seat open. Additionally, more than 10 bullet casings and bullet heads were scattered around. Two undercover officers from Bang Rak Police Station who were present at the scene were waiting to turn themselves in. They stated that they had been dispatched to investigate reports of a drunken man causing a disturbance in front of a local shop. Upon arrival, they encountered Mongkol, who was behaving aggressively near his parked motorbike. The officers recounted that they requested to search Mongkol’s motorbike for weapons. When they found nothing illegal under the seat, they attempted to search him personally. At that moment, Mongkol allegedly drew a gun and fired at them, prompting the officers to return fire, resulting in his death. Fatal shooting Following the incident, the investigators, forensic team, and public prosecutors escorted the two undercover officers to Bang Rak Police Station for further questioning. Gunpowder residue tests and fingerprinting were conducted on the officers’ and Mongkol’s weapons. Mongkol’s brother, 50 year old Suksom, provided additional context. He explained that Mongkol, a recently unemployed courier with four children from a previous relationship, had discovered his current girlfriend, a PR worker, was involved with another woman. He speculated that Mongkol had gone to confront his girlfriend, which led to the tragic event. Suksom was unsure if the gun he found belonged to his brother. Suksom expressed his suspicions about the police conduct, noting that they barred the family from viewing Mongkol’s body or taking photographs. “I want to ask the police if they acted excessively.” His brother also mentioned that Mongkol had been acquitted of a murder charge over a decade ago, reported KhaoSod. The body has been sent to the forensic unit at the Police General Hospital for a detailed autopsy. by Bright Choomanee TOP Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pheu Thai Pushes On with Casino Legalisation Amidst Coalition Resistance Casino file photo courtesy: Wikipedia Pheu Thai remains confident in its ability to persuade its coalition partner, Bhumjaithai Party, to support the legalisation of casinos, despite Bhumjaithai’s recent opposition. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335546-pheu-thai-pushes-on-with-casino-legalisation-amidst-coalition-resistance/

Pheu Thai remains confident in its ability to persuade its coalition partner, Bhumjaithai Party, to support the legalisation of casinos, despite Bhumjaithai’s recent opposition. The bill, championed by Pheu Thai, aims to legalise casinos as part of a larger initiative to create regional entertainment complexes to attract investment. Hours before his removal as prime minister by the Constitutional Court, Srettha Thavisin expressed optimism that Pheu Thai could eventually convince Bhumjaithai to back the bill. Acknowledging the controversial nature of legalising casinos, Srettha emphasised the need for further discussions with coalition parties to align their views. He stated that a consensus among all parties is essential before presenting the bill to the House, reported Bangkok Post. The Entertainment Complex Business Operation Bill, which received Cabinet approval in April, is currently in the midst of an online public hearing process organised by the Ministry of Finance, running from August 2 to 18. "The debate over whether to legalise gambling has been ongoing for decades," remarked Srettha. He further expressed Pheu Thai’s goal to regulate gambling by making it a legal activity and his confidence that Bhumjaithai would eventually support the bill. However, Bhumjaithai outlined four key reasons for opposing the bill. Firstly, they argued that legalising casinos would not address the issue of illegal gambling and might exacerbate gambling-related problems. Secondly, they questioned the financial benefits to the state and private sector from taxing casinos, suggesting that they do not justify the investment. Thirdly, the party contended that using casinos to boost tourism is impractical given Thailand’s existing array of renowned attractions. Lastly, they criticised the bill for not adequately addressing how entertainment complexes would provide job security for Thai workers. Somkid Chueakong, former deputy secretary-general to Srettha, mentioned that state agencies would respond to any questions from Bhumjaithai or other coalition parties about the bill. He expressed hope that this would help reconcile differing opinions. The bill also faces opposition from the two main opposition parties, the People’s Party and the Democrat Party. Rangsiman Rome, a People’s Party MP, voiced concerns that the entertainment complex scheme could be mismanaged, potentially turning Thailand into a new hub for money laundering by shady international businesses. He also mentioned rumours of individuals lobbying for licences to operate entertainment complexes with casinos. The outcome of these discussions and the public hearing process will determine the future of the bill and whether it can garner enough support to move forward. TOP Casino file photo courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Modified Pickup Truck Spews Black Smoke, Escapes Checkpoint in Mukdahan Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Challenging the system, a modified pickup truck spewed black smoke in front of officers, breaking through a security checkpoint in Mukdahan Province. The vehicle's suspicious behavior hints at illegal items or prior offenses. Authorities are actively pursuing the driver, though he remains at large. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1335541-modified-pickup-truck-spews-black-smoke-escapes-checkpoint-in-mukdahan/

Challenging the system, a modified pickup truck spewed black smoke in front of officers, breaking through a security checkpoint in Mukdahan Province. The vehicle's suspicious behavior hints at illegal items or prior offenses. Authorities are actively pursuing the driver, though he remains at large. On August 14, 2024, reporters highlighted CCTV footage from the previous day. At approximately 12:15 p.m. on August 13, a mint green Toyota Vigo 4-door pickup truck, modified for racing, was recorded at a drug and illegal goods checkpoint along the Mekong River, near Ban Bang Sai Yai and Ban Bang Sai Noi, in front of the Upahat Ratchawong Shrine, Mueang District, Mukdahan Province. As the vehicle approached, officers requested to search it. However, the driver, estimated to be in his 30s, revved the engine, releasing a cloud of black smoke into the faces of the officers before speeding away towards the Ban Bang Sai Noi intersection in Wan Yai District. Despite their immediate efforts, officers could not apprehend the vehicle or its driver. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath At the scene, Lt. Watcharasorn Chueapaiboon, commander of the 2105th Ranger Task Force Company from the 21st Ranger Task Force Regiment, provided insight into the incident. He confirmed that at noon, the pickup truck attempted to pass through the checkpoint, reported Thai Rath. Upon being asked for a search, the driver refused, and promptly fled the scene. "The force has dispersed to gather evidence and track down the driver. We intend to prosecute him to the full extent of the law," Watcharasorn stated. He speculated that the driver might have had illegal items in the vehicle, prompting his refusal to comply. Lt. Watcharasorn acknowledged the potential frustration for the general public, as increased traffic congestion might arise from additional checkpoints. "We apologize for any inconvenience. During this rainy season, the Mekong River often overflows, facilitating the transport of illegal items from neighboring countries. Therefore, our security checkpoints are crucial and will be in place continuously," he explained. TOP Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-08-15 - Cigna offers a variety of health insurance plans designed to meet the minimum requirement for medical treatment coverage, with benefits reaching up to THB 3 million. These plans are tailored to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions for expatriates, ensuring peace of mind and access to quality medical services. To explore the full range of Cigna's expat health insurance options and find a plan that suits your needs, click here for more information. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe