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to continue: Thailand Live Friday 25 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1341616-thailand-live-friday-25-october-2024/

Photo via KomChadLuek 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. Big Joke’s on her: Police wife caught in affair and burglary storm Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341614-big-joke’s-on-her-police-wife-caught-in-affair-and-burglary-storm/

PM: No Extension for Tak Bai Litigation Period Despite Calls Paetongtarn Shinawatra. File photo courtesy: Siam Rath Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced today that there will be no executive decree to extend the 20-year litigation period for the infamous 2004 Tak Bai incident in Thailand’s Deep South. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341622-pm-no-extension-for-tak-bai-litigation-period-despite-calls/

Paetongtarn Shinawatra. File photo courtesy: Siam Rath Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced today that there will be no executive decree to extend the 20-year litigation period for the infamous 2004 Tak Bai incident in Thailand’s Deep South. The period, which expires tomorrow, concerns the tragic deaths of 85 protesters, where 78 individuals suffocated in overcrowded army trucks during transport from outside the Tak Bai police station in Narathiwat to an army barracks in Pattani. During a press briefing at Government House, Paetongtarn expressed her condolences to the victims' families. She also noted that the legal timeframe could not be extended to prosecute the 14 suspects linked to the incident due to legal constraints. This conclusion came after consultations with the Council of State, which determined that no executive decree could legally prolong the window for litigation. This incident occurred during the leadership of Paetongtarn's father, Thaksin Shinawatra, who was the Prime Minister at the time and is now the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai Party. Most notably, former Fourth Army Region commander Pisal Watanawongkhiri, viewed as the central figure among the suspects, is believed to have fled the country and recently resigned as a Pheu Thai MP. In response to the looming deadline, police launched a last-minute effort to locate some of these suspects, extending their search to distant provinces such as Chiang Rai, but no arrests were made, reported Thai Newsroom. The decision not to extend the litigation period has been met with disappointment from those seeking justice. However, the government maintains that the boundaries of the law must be respected, despite public and political pressures to take further action. This decision raises questions about accountability and justice concerning historic cases. -- 2024-10-24

New SMS Rule: Annual Registration for Link-Senders to Combat Scams An example of a phishing attack through SMS, showing a fake message and URL claiming to be from Apple. Picture: Wikipedia In a decisive move to curb the rise of SMS-based scams, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society has mandated that all senders who include links in their messages must register annually. This regulation seeks to thwart fraudulent tactics used by scammers to steal personal data and money. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341619-new-sms-rule-annual-registration-for-link-senders-to-combat-scams/

An example of a phishing attack through SMS, showing a fake message and URL claiming to be from Apple. Picture: Wikipedia In a decisive move to curb the rise of SMS-based scams, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society has mandated that all senders who include links in their messages must register annually. This regulation seeks to thwart fraudulent tactics used by scammers to steal personal data and money. Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong announced this new requirement, designed to address the growing problem of phishing links embedded within SMS messages. The initiative stems from the collaboration between the ministry, the police, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, and major telecom service providers. Dubbed the "Cleansing Sender Name" system, this measure mandates yearly registration, allowing authorities to effectively identify not only senders of these SMS messages but also the providers facilitating these communications. This registration process requires senders to include message details and links, which mobile operators can then review and verify before they are dispatched to recipients. Should any sender fail to comply, the consequence would be the blocking of their sender name, coupled with potential legal repercussions, Minister Prasert warned. The Ministry’s spokesman indicated that this measure is anticipated to come into effect early next year. However, before its implementation, detailed discussions are needed amongst involved parties to iron out the operational specifics of how this system will work in practice, reported Bangkok Post. This proactive approach aims to safeguard citizens against growing cyber threats, ensuring that the simple act of receiving an SMS is not laced with potential fraud. It's not just a deterrent but also a protective barrier for the public in an increasingly digital world. -- 2024-10-24

Dessert storm: British man gets burned for smoking at sweet stall (video) by Petch Petpailin Photo via TikTok/ @ketar_nk Two Thai dessert vendors in Chiang Mai clashed with an ignorant British man after he smoked outside their stall, despite a no-smoking sign and warnings from the vendors. The altercation between the Thai vendors and the Brit garnered public attention after a witness shared a video of the incident on her TikTok account, @ketar_nk, on October 23. In the caption, the TikToker stated… “Don’t know what had happened before. I arrived at the spot and saw them arguing.” In the video, the British man is seen arguing with two vendors at the stall. One of the vendors, wearing a black shirt, suddenly threw a bucket at him, while another vendor followed him and poured water over him. The British man was accompanied by friends, who stood on the left lane of the road outside the shop. According to the name of the shop shown in the video, the incident took place at Suang Bua Loy in Chiang Mai. The stall sells the traditional Thai dessert, Bua Loy, which consists of rice flour balls floating in coconut milk. Many Thai netizens criticised the vendors for their aggressive actions, saying that such behaviour would harm both the image of Thai tourism and the reputation of their stall. Others demanded that the stall owners clarify the matter publicly. The stall owners, who are siblings, later shared their version of events on the shop’s official TikTok account to provide more context. One of the owners revealed that the root cause of the altercation was smoking. Right to smoke in public? The group of foreigners approached her to ask for directions to a nearby bathroom. While one of his group went to use the bathroom, the others waited outside the stall. The man involved in the argument then began to smoke, despite a clear warning sign in English. The vendor asked him not to smoke in the area, which made the foreigner angry. He reportedly claimed that smoking was his personal right and complained to the vendor using vulgar language. Another vendor rushed to inform her older sister, which the foreign man misinterpreted as a threat. He then threw his cigarette at the vendors and damaged their desserts and equipment. This prompted one of the owners to throw a bucket and water at him, as seen in the video. The vendors admitted that they were angry and acknowledged that their actions might negatively impact their business. The incident concluded when the British man’s friend returned from the bathroom and reprimanded him for violating the rules, given the presence of a clear sign. Many netizens sided with the vendors, arguing that the foreigner infringed on others’ rights by smoking in a public area. Some even remarked that the vendors had shown restraint by not throwing boiling water or coconut milk at him. The vendors did not pursue any legal action against the foreigner. They urged anyone with questions about the situation to approach them directly, stating that they were willing to provide all the details. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-24

Pattaya bike thief pedals away with a full plate, leaves sticky rice by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod A bicycle worth 15,000 baht was stolen from a Pattaya journalist, with the thief casually inflating the tyres before riding away, leaving a bag of sticky rice and pork behind. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341561-pattaya-bike-thief-pedals-away-with-a-full-plate-leaves-sticky-rice/

A bicycle worth 15,000 baht was stolen from a Pattaya journalist, with the thief casually inflating the tyres before riding away, leaving a bag of sticky rice and pork behind. CCTV footage from an apartment in Soi Thetsaban 1, Moo 1, Huai Yai Subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri province, captured the thief in action. The individual, identified as a Thai man, was seen wearing a black shirt and shorts and carrying a black backpack. He also had a bag of sticky rice and pork in hand as he scoped out the area under the apartment stairs before dragging the bicycle outside. The man then used a pump left next to the bicycle to calmly inflate the tyres before making his getaway. A journalist residing in Pattaya, 61 year old Prasert Phrainangkoon, who owns the bicycle recounted that he usually parked it under the apartment for exercise purposes. The mountain bike, a brand named Twitter, was purchased for 15,000 baht. However, due to work commitments, he has not been able to use it as often lately. On the night of October 17, while he was asleep in his room, the CCTV captured the thief entering the premises at 4am and making off with the bike. Notably, the thief left behind a bag of sticky rice and pork, seemingly as a taunt. Upon discovering the theft, Prasert immediately reported the incident to the Huai Yai Police Station, seeking justice and the return of his bicycle, reported KhaoSod. Police in Pattaya have launched an investigation, examining the CCTV footage to identify and apprehend the suspect. The casual manner in which the thief operated, even taking the time to inflate the tyres, has raised eyebrows and added a peculiar twist to the incident. In similar news, a brazen thief stole a schoolboy’s sports kit from a house in Pattaya and dared to change into it right in front of a security camera! by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-24

Police seize 68 motorcycles in Bangkok street racing crackdown by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Bangkok apprehended a large group of motorcycle riders racing on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, seizing 68 motorcycles and detaining both racers and their supporters. The operation followed reports on social media about the planned gathering. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341558-police-seize-68-motorcycles-in-bangkok-street-racing-crackdown/

Police in Bangkok apprehended a large group of motorcycle riders racing on Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, seizing 68 motorcycles and detaining both racers and their supporters. The operation followed reports on social media about the planned gathering. At 12.30am yesterday, October 23, Phuchong Mae-thung, a traffic control officer from the Vibhavadi Rangsit Traffic Control Centre, led over 60 traffic police officers in an operation to intercept and capture motorcyclists. The racers had been spotted on Ratchadamnoen Road before moving to Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, Din Daeng district, Bangkok. Police had been monitoring various locations following tips from social media. The officers discovered the motorcyclists engaging in high-speed races on the main road and swiftly closed off Vibhavadi Rangsit Road to apprehend the offenders. A total of 68 motorcycles were confiscated and handed over to investigators at the Vibhavadi Police Station. Phuchong stated that 68 motorcycles were seized, with 22 of them involved in offences such as ‘attempting to race on public roads and driving without regard for safety.’ The offenders, a mix of juveniles and adults, are set to be prosecuted. The remaining 46 motorcycles were subject to fines under the Road Traffic Act. Issues included the absence of license plates and vehicle modifications, primarily involving the supporters of the racers rather than the racers themselves. Phuchong mentioned that the offenders would be sent to court to face charges, while the supporters would be fined for lesser violations, reported KhaoSod. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-24

Thailand braces for tropical storm and cool winds in 24 provinces by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a weather warning today, October 24, highlighting heavy rain in 24 provinces and urging vigilance regarding the powerful tropical storm Trami. Northern Thailand will experience cool weather and strong winds, while the southern seas will see high waves. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341556-thailand-braces-for-tropical-storm-and-cool-winds-in-24-provinces/

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a weather warning today, October 24, highlighting heavy rain in 24 provinces and urging vigilance regarding the powerful tropical storm Trami. Northern Thailand will experience cool weather and strong winds, while the southern seas will see high waves. The weather forecast for the next 24 hours indicates that upper Thailand will have minimal rainfall, though thunderstorms may occur in some areas. In the northeastern and upper northern regions, morning temperatures will be cooler with strong winds. This weather pattern is attributed to a moderate high-pressure system or cool air mass covering the upper northern and northeastern regions. In contrast, the easterly winds bringing moisture from the South China Sea and the Gulf of Thailand to upper Thailand have weakened. The monsoon trough passing through the upper southern region will result in continued thunderstorms. The Andaman Sea will experience waves of 1 to 2 metres, and the Gulf of Thailand will have waves approximately 1 metre high, with waves exceeding 2 metres in thunderstorm-prone areas. Mariners in these regions should exercise caution and avoid sailing in stormy areas. Meanwhile, the powerful tropical storm Trami is currently situated over the upper Philippines and is expected to move into the upper South China Sea today. It is forecasted to approach the southern coast of Hainan Island in China and the central coast of Vietnam between October 26 and 28. Travellers to these areas should monitor the weather conditions before embarking on their journeys. In the northern region, the upper part will be cool in the morning with 10% of the area experiencing thunderstorms, particularly in the provinces of Chiang Mai, Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, Phitsanulok, Phichit, and Phetchabun. Temperatures will range from 21 to 24 degrees Celsius (°C) at their lowest to 32 to 35°Cat their highest, with easterly winds blowing at 10 to 15 kilometres per hour (km/h). Regional updates In the northeastern region, the morning will be cool with strong winds and slight rain in some areas, mainly in the western part of the region. Temperatures will range from 20 to 23°C at their lowest to 31 to 34°C at their highest, with northeasterly winds blowing at speeds of 10 to 30 km/h. In the central region, 10% of the area will experience thunderstorms, mostly in the provinces of Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Samut Sakhon, and Samut Songkhram. Temperatures will range from 22 to 25°C at their lowest to 32 to 35°C at their highest, with northeasterly winds blowing at speeds of 10 to 20 km/h. In the eastern region, 10% of the area will experience thunderstorms, mostly in the provinces of Nakhon Nayok, Chon Buri, and Trat. Temperatures will range from 23 to 25°C at their lowest to 32 to 34°C at their highest, with northeasterly winds blowing at speeds of 15 to 30 km/h. The sea will have waves approximately 1 metre high, with waves exceeding 2 metres in thunderstorm-prone areas. In the southern region (eastern coast), 40% of the area will experience thunderstorms, particularly in the provinces of Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and Songkhla. Temperatures will range from 22 to 25°C at their lowest to 32 to 34°C at their highest, with variable winds blowing at speeds of 15 to 30 km/h. The sea will have waves approximately 1 metre high, with waves exceeding 2 metres in thunderstorm-prone areas. In the southern region (western coast), 40% of the area will experience thunderstorms, particularly in the provinces of Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, and Krabi. Temperatures will range from 24 to 26°C at their lowest to 31 to 33°C at their highest. From Phang Nga upwards, southwesterly winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 35 km/h, with waves of 1 to 2 metres, and waves exceeding 2 metres in storm-prone areas. From Phuket downwards, northwesterly winds will blow at speeds of 15 to 30 km/h, with waves approximately 1 metre high, and waves exceeding 2 metres in storm-prone areas. In Bangkok and surrounding areas, 10% of the area will experience thunderstorms. Temperatures will range from 24 to 26°C at their lowest to 33 to 35°C at their highest, with northeasterly winds blowing at speeds of 10 to 20 km/h. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-24

Foreigner Wrecks Chiang Mai Stall After Smoking Ban Warning Video screenshot A heated confrontation unfolded at Chiang Mai’s bustling Chang Phuak market on 23 October when a foreign man reacted violently after being asked to stop smoking near a popular dessert stall. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341549-foreigner-wrecks-chiang-mai-stall-after-smoking-ban-warning/

video screenshot A heated confrontation unfolded at Chiang Mai’s bustling Chang Phuak market on 23 October when a foreign man reacted violently after being asked to stop smoking near a popular dessert stall. The incident was captured in a viral TikTok video by user @ketar_nk, showing the man throwing a lit cigarette at the vendor and causing damage to the stall before being doused with water. The confrontation began when a group of foreigners visited the market, with one man lighting a cigarette near a gas stove while waiting for his friends. Despite the presence of clear signage in English warning against smoking, the vendor, who runs a well-known bualoy (sweet dumplings in coconut milk) stall, politely asked the man to put out his cigarette. According to the vendor, she was concerned about the proximity to the gas stove and the safety of her customers. However, the request infuriated the man, who argued that he had the right to smoke wherever he pleased, claiming it was a personal freedom. When his partner arrived, the situation escalated as the man exaggerated the story, making it appear as though he had been unfairly targeted. This led to an intense verbal argument, with the foreign man hurling insults at the vendor and acting aggressively. At this point, the vendor’s younger sister stepped in to inquire what was happening. The foreigner, feeling threatened, responded by overturning trays of bualoy, damaging tables, and throwing his lit cigarette at her. In an effort to extinguish the cigarette and diffuse the situation, the vendor grabbed a bucket of water and threw it towards the man. The water, intended to put out the cigarette, accidentally splashed the man, intensifying the scene. Shortly after, the man’s friend, who had been using the restroom, returned and attempted to calm the situation. He rebuked his friend for his behaviour, pointing out that the stall clearly displayed signs prohibiting smoking. Following this, the group apologised, and the altercation ended with both parties going their separate ways. The stall owner later took to TikTok under the account @suangbualoy to clarify the situation, stating that the incident had drawn negative comments online, reported Khasod Thai. She expressed regret over the confrontation, explaining that her actions were intended to prevent a fire hazard, not to provoke the man. The video and explanation have since sparked widespread discussions about cultural misunderstandings and respect for local regulations. 020260c63eef57206ef9140281399525.mp4 -- 2024-10-24

Casino Complex Law Set to Reach Thai Cabinet by Year-End File photo courtesy: Wikimedia The Thai government is preparing to introduce a groundbreaking draft law on the establishment of entertainment complexes, including legal casinos, to the cabinet for approval by the year's end. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341548-casino-complex-law-set-to-reach-thai-cabinet-by-year-end/

File photo courtesy: Wikimedia The Thai government is preparing to introduce a groundbreaking draft law on the establishment of entertainment complexes, including legal casinos, to the cabinet for approval by the year's end. This announcement came from Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat, who stated that following cabinet assent, the draft bill will proceed to parliamentary debate. The Thai House of Representatives is scheduled to resume its regular session from mid-December until April next year. This proposed legislation marks a significant shift, aiming to establish Thailand's first legal casinos. The draft law has recently undergone a public consultation, garnering substantial support, with 82% of respondents in favour of the initiative. A study by the Fiscal Policy Office suggests that the introduction of these entertainment complexes could increase foreign tourist numbers by 5-20%, boosting average visitor spending from 40,000 to 60,000 baht. These complexes are expected to significantly contribute to Thailand's economic growth, not just through the initial construction phase but also post-completion by attracting tourists and creating jobs for local residents. Mr Julapun expressed a preference for employing as many Thai citizens as possible within these complexes, acknowledging the potential need for training to equip them with necessary skills. For private investors, the draft law specifies a minimum registered capital of 10 billion baht. The government will evaluate investment proposals based on their alignment with desired man-made tourist attractions, reported Bangkok Post. Thais planning to visit these casinos will face an entry fee capped at 5,000 baht per visit. The draft legislation also outlines a 30-year concession period for operators, with licenses renewable every 10 years. The license fee is set at 5 billion baht, supplemented by an annual fee of 1 billion baht. -- 2024-10-24

Thailand to Implement 300-Baht Tourism Tax Starting with Air Travel File photo Thailand is on the verge of introducing a 300-baht tourism tax, initially aimed at air travellers, marking a significant step towards managing the influx of tourists while ensuring their safety and contributing to sustainable tourism development. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341545-thailand-to-implement-300-baht-tourism-tax-starting-with-air-travel/

File photo Thailand is gearing up to impose a 300-baht tourism tax, initially targeting air travel, possibly starting within the next six months. The Tourism and Sports Ministry, under Minister Sorawong Thienthong, is refining details before seeking cabinet approval in January. Initially greenlit in February 2023 under the previous administration, the scheme requires newer government consensus post-elections. Air travellers, making up 70% of Thailand's foreign arrivals, are slated to be the first to feel the impact of this tax. Plans involve employing a transaction system developed by Krungthai Bank. Travellers would use a dedicated website or app to process their payments, mirroring South Korea's K-ETA registration system. Essentially, visitors would pre-register and pay online prior to entering Thailand. A key feature of the proposed tax is the inclusion of an insurance premium, capped at 60 baht per person from the collected 300 baht. It offers a 30-day protection, aligning with the average tourist stay duration, covering up to 1 million baht in the case of accidental death, and 500,000 baht for injuries. Phase two aims to expand the tax coverage to overland travellers. Additionally, Mr Thienthong is considering standardising the fee to 300 baht across all arrival modes, addressing concerns of discrimination since previous plans proposed lower charges for entry via land and sea, reported Bangkok Post. It's important to note that frequent border crossers, primarily for trade, could bypass this levy with a border pass. Upon gaining government approval, the ministry will spearhead the recruitment of software developers and insurance firms to support this initiative. This tourism tax is forecast to provide significant revenue while offering tourists a safety net during their stay in Thailand. -- 2024-10-24

Police Arrest Foreign Man for Exploiting Minors in Thailand Picture courtesy: Daily News Thai police made a crucial arrest in a case involving the exploitation of minors. Led by Pol. Maj. Gen. Songprod Sirisukha of Immigration Division 6 and Pol. Col. Denchai Jaroen Yut, chief investigator, officers from Division 5 worked together to combat underage prostitution facilitated online. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341538-police-arrest-foreign-man-for-exploiting-minors-in-thailand/

Picture courtesy: Daily News Thai police made a crucial arrest in a case involving the exploitation of minors. Led by Pol. Maj. Gen. Songprod Sirisukha of Immigration Division 6 and Pol. Col. Denchai Jaroen Yut, chief investigator, officers from Division 5 worked together to combat underage prostitution facilitated online. Investigations had revealed that sexual services involving minors were being advertised on social media platforms, with particular attention drawn to posts on Facebook. In a carefully crafted sting operation, the authorities posed as clients and contacted a young man named THIHA AUNG, a 24-year-old Myanmar national, who had been orchestrating these arrangements. Despite being a foreign national, AUNG was well-versed in Thai, which aided him in his illicit activities across the region. Under the guise of arranging a meeting, they scheduled an encounter where THIHA AUNG promised to deliver two minors for sexual services. The designated location was a hotel in Muang District, Ranong. On the arranged evening, AUNG arrived at the hotel, delivering only one minor to Suite 2, which was under discreet surveillance by a team of officers. As events unfolded and AUNG’s unlawful intentions were confirmed, the authorities swiftly moved in to arrest him. Following his detainment, AUNG was transferred to the Marine Police Station 1, Subdivision 8. There, his arrest was officially documented, and initial investigations were carried out to establish a more comprehensive understanding of his operations and connections, potentially leading to a broader network exploiting minors in similar circumstances. During his questioning, AUNG was made aware of the serious charges he was facing, primarily focusing on "human trafficking," a crime that carries significant legal consequences in Thailand. The broader implications of his arrest could serve as a deterrent to others involved in such illegal activities. The police operation did not end there. Authorities are now delving deeper into this case to unearth any links to other individuals or groups involved in the exploitation of minors. The focus remains not only on prosecuting those directly involved but also on dismantling any networks that facilitate such exploitation, thus safeguarding vulnerable minors from being victimized in the future. This arrest highlights Thailand’s commitment to tackling the grave and complex issue of human trafficking and child exploitation. It also underscores the ongoing challenge posed by digital platforms, which unscrupulous individuals continue to exploit to perpetuate illegal activities. The police urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities as part of a collective effort to protect children and uphold the rule of law, reported Daily News. -- 2024-10-24

Gas Stove Fire Erupts in Udon Thani, Owner Flees in Panic Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A fire broke out at a grilled pork stall in central Udon Thani, sparking panic among locals as flames engulfed the shop. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341534-gas-stove-fire-erupts-in-udon-thani-owner-flees-in-panic/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A fire broke out at a grilled pork stall in central Udon Thani, sparking panic among locals as flames engulfed the shop. The owner and nearby residents fled in fear of a potential gas explosion, while others rushed to control the blaze, worried it might spread to a neighbouring convenience store. Fortunately, firefighters arrived promptly, extinguishing the fire before it could cause further damage. The incident occurred on 23 October at around 9:00 a.m., when Udon Thani’s emergency response centre was notified of a fire at a food stall outside a convenience store on Aduldet Road, Mak Khaeng Subdistrict, Mueang District. Firefighters from the Udon Thani municipal disaster relief centre were dispatched immediately. On arrival, they found the stall selling grilled pork severely ablaze, with flames shooting out of a gas stove. Local residents had already tried dousing the fire with water and fire extinguishers, but the fire continued to rage. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath The shop owner, convenience store staff, and passers-by fled, fearing an explosion. Firefighters, equipped with protective gear, quickly identified the source of the blaze and safely shut off the gas valves on two cylinders. They cooled the tanks with water to prevent further danger. While the food supplies, including grilled pork and sausages, were destroyed, the convenience store remained unharmed. The owner, Ms. Ornutch, 51, suffered minor burns to her arm and was given first aid by rescue teams. She explained that the fire started when a gas hose disconnected and caught fire while she was cooking for a customer. She expressed shock, lamenting the damage to her shop and the loss of her first sale after recently reopening. -- 2024-10-24

Pattaya - Tourists at Pattaya Beach are worried about trash scattered along the entire stretch of the beach, raising questions about its source. Local media reported on October 23rd that many tourists at Pattaya Beach were seeing numerous pieces of trash floating in the sea and littered across the beach. The garbage includes cigarette butts, plastic bags, water bottles, foam containers, and styrofoam boxes. This debris has accumulated along the entire stretch of Pattaya Beach, with no one knowing where it came from. In some areas, there are significant piles of cigarette butts lining the shore. Local residents are urging the city to investigate the matter, as Pattaya Beach is one of the main attractions in Pattaya City. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-10-24

Pattaya Beach Becomes Littered with Debris, Threatening Its World-Class Image By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: TMN Cable TV Pattaya Pattaya - Tourists at Pattaya Beach are worried about trash scattered along the entire stretch of the beach, raising questions about its source. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341532-pattaya-beach-becomes-littered-with-debris-threatening-its-world-class-image/