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Mother Seeks Help After Son's 4-Year Disappearance in Thailand Picture courtesy: Daily News A deeply concerned mother, Ms. Yoshimi Nishi, 66, has approached Khlong Tan Police Station regarding the mysterious disappearance of her son, Mr. Takashiro Nishi, a 39-year-old Japanese national. The distressing situation began four years ago, and since then, Ms. Nishi has anguished over the location and wellbeing of her son. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334744-mother-seeks-help-after-sons-4-year-disappearance-in-thailand/

A deeply concerned mother, Ms. Yoshimi Nishi, 66, has approached Khlong Tan Police Station regarding the mysterious disappearance of her son, Mr. Takashiro Nishi, a 39-year-old Japanese national. The distressing situation began four years ago, and since then, Ms. Nishi has anguished over the location and wellbeing of her son. Mr. Takashiro Nishi last communicated with his mother on June 29, 2020, via the messaging app LINE. In that message, he claimed to be seriously ill and asked for 1 million yen. After receiving the funds, Mr. Takashiro vanished, prompting Ms. Nishi, after numerous futile attempts to contact him, to turn to the Japanese Embassy for assistance. The embassy reported that Takashiro was previously arrested in Thailand due to embezzlement charges. He fled after being granted bail, leading to an arrest warrant being issued by the Phra Nakhon South District Court. Despite these alarming developments, the matter grew more complex, reported Daily News. On June 9, 2023, Ms. Nishi received an email claiming Mr. Takashiro's health had worsened, prompting her to transfer another 1 million yen. Another email on June 21 demanded an additional 300,000 yen, but Ms. Nishi halted any further transactions, becoming suspicious of the situation. Investigations revealed Mr. Takashiro entered Thailand via the Nong Khai Immigration checkpoint on March 5, 2020. His last visa extension was done on March 5, 2021, at the Nakhon Sawan Immigration checkpoint, with his permission expiring in 2022. Ms. Nishi filed the formal complaint fearing her son was harmed. Pol. Col. Witthawat Chinkam, Commander of Metropolitan Police Division 5, stated that the police had yet to coordinate with the Immigration Bureau but assured Ms. Nishi that a full investigation would commence. The process would involve checking bail records, guarantors, and addresses connected to Mr. Takashiro. The case remains shrouded in uncertainty, with the critical question of Mr. Takashiro’s fate still unanswered. The police have initiated inquiries in Nakhon Sawan to find clues, starting with the last recorded movement of Mr. Takashiro's visa renewal. As Ms. Nishi awaits further updates, the pressing search for Mr. Takashiro continues, holding onto hope amid the troubling circumstances. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-08-06 - 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

Corrections Department Defends Thaksin Shinawatra Release Date Thaisin Shinawatra. Stock image courtesy: Thai PBS The Department of Corrections has clarified the confusion surrounding former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's scheduled release after his current suspensions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334743-corrections-department-defends-thaksin-shinawatra-release-date/

The Department of Corrections has clarified the confusion surrounding former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's scheduled release after his current suspensions. The release date of August 31, 2024, is correct, assured officials, addressing concerns from former MP Thepthai Senapong on alleged miscalculations. Thaksin, who was imprisoned on August 22, 2023, received a royal pardon reducing his sentence to one year, starting from August 31, 2023. This has raised questions about the sentence and the Department of Corrections' methods. Thepthai Senapong, a former MP from Nakhon Si Thammarat, voiced his doubts on social media, questioning who would be held accountable if the Department had indeed miscalculated. This prompted a swift response from the Department’s PR team, clarifying the legal and procedural correctness of their calculations. The corrections officials explained that the prison term calculations begin from the date of incarceration. For prisoners to qualify for a punishment suspension, they must serve at least six months or one-third of their term, whichever is greater. In Thaksin's case, the starting date is August 22, 2023, and his initial release was calculated based on serving a minimum of six months. Thus, his eventual release aligns with legal frameworks, reported Siam Rath. The Department referenced Section 21 of the Criminal Code, which dictates prison term computation. A day in prison equals a full day, and months are counted as thirty days. This systematic approach confirms Thaksin’s release date of August 31, 2024, is accurate. This detailed response from corrections officials aims to dispel any lingering doubts about the adherence to legal guidelines in Thaksin’s case, ensuring public trust in the justice system’s integrity. The Department underscores that all calculations and procedures have been thoroughly reviewed to maintain public confidence in the correctional protocols and operations. Thaisin Shinawatra. Stock image courtesy: Thai PBS -- 2024-08-06 - 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

Army Orders Mental Health Checks for Trainers After Chiang Mai Abuse Incident Defense Minister Suthin Klangsang. Picture courtesy: Wikimedia Defence Minister Suthin Klangsang has ordered a mental health checkup for all army supervisors and trainers nationwide. The directive follows a disturbing incident at a Chiang Mai training camp where 10 privates were subjected to naked abuse by two non-commissioned officers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334738-army-orders-mental-health-checks-for-trainers-after-chiang-mai-abuse-incident/

Defense Minister Suthin Klangsang. Picture courtesy: Wikimedia Defence Minister Suthin Klangsang has ordered a mental health checkup for all army supervisors and trainers nationwide. The directive follows a disturbing incident at a Chiang Mai training camp where 10 privates were subjected to naked abuse by two non-commissioned officers. In a tense meeting with top military officials, including Gen. Ukrit Boontanon and Lt. Gen. Anupha Sirimonthon, the minister addressed the troubling events at the 25th Cavalry Battalion of the 4th Cavalry Regiment, King’s Guard. Reports revealed that a corporal and a sergeant, allegedly intoxicated, forced the privates to strip naked, stand in the rain for six hours, and endure physical abuse. The incident came to light when the sister of one of the victims took to a community Facebook page, Sai Mai Tong Rod (Sai Mai District Must Survive), to report the abuse. She detailed how the privates were slapped, kicked, and stomped on, with many sustaining internal injuries. Minister Klangsang received an initial army report but demanded more details. He learned that the incidents occurred twice, in March and August, and that those responsible had already been investigated and punished. However, he emphasized the need for a thorough review to ensure that the punishments were appropriately enforced. The abuse incidents, occurring near border camps with stricter protocols, highlighted the potential for stress-related abusive behaviours among supervisors. In response, Klangsang stressed the importance of revising regulations for disciplinary investigations and court-martials. He also confirmed the formation of a committee to ensure adequate punishment for those found guilty. Recognizing the potential for stress-induced abusive conduct, Klangsang ordered mental health checks for all supervisors and trainers across training camps nationwide. This move aims to prevent future incidents and ensure the well-being of both trainees and instructors. -- 2024-08-06 - 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

Digital Wallet Project Sales Exempt from Revenue Department Access Picture courtesy: Amari TV Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat confirmed today that sales figures from the Pheu Thai-initiated digital wallet project will not be accessible by the Revenue Department as initially feared. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334737-digital-wallet-project-sales-exempt-from-revenue-department-access/

Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat confirmed today that sales figures from the Pheu Thai-initiated digital wallet project will not be accessible by the Revenue Department as initially feared. The announcement follows widespread concerns among small- to medium-sized retailers and vendors who worried that the data could be used for income tax collection. Julapun alleviated these concerns by stating that the Ministry of Commerce will not share trading figures from the 10,000-baht digital wallet transactions with the Revenue Department. Julapun emphasised this during a public statement on 5th August, highlighting that the digital wallet sales data will remain separate from tax-related databases. This reassurance comes as a significant relief to small business owners concerned about potential tax implications on their sales profits under the Pheu Thai-initiated handout programme. The initiative, aimed at providing 10,000 baht via digital wallets, has seen substantial interest with nearly 24 million Thai nationals aged 16 and over already registered through the Stateway App. The registration deadline has been set for 15th September, with the project anticipated to launch in the fourth quarter of this year. All retailers and vendors wishing to participate in the digital wallet project will still need to register online with the Ministry of Commerce. However, this will not link their sales data to the Revenue Department, Julapun confirmed. The digital wallet handout project is seen as a populist measure designed to boost consumer spending and aid the country's economy. However, it has also faced scrutiny and cautious optimism from various sectors. Julapun’s assurance was intended to encourage broader participation from small vendors who were hesitant due to potential tax risks. With an estimated potential pool of 45 million participants, this project could play a pivotal role in revitalising local market economies without the added burden of new tax liabilities for participating retailers and vendors. Picture courtesy: Amari TV -- 2024-08-06 - 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 Residents Protest Landfill's Overwhelming Odour and Flies Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Residents of several villages near a landfill in Chiang Mai's Choeng Doi sub-district have raised alarms over a persistent foul odour emanating from the site. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334736-chiang-mai-residents-protest-landfills-overwhelming-odour-and-flies/

Residents of several villages near a landfill in Chiang Mai's Choeng Doi sub-district have raised alarms over a persistent foul odour emanating from the site. These locals, living within a kilometre radius of the landfill, report that the smell is so overpowering they are compelled to wear face masks nearly all day and keep their homes tightly shut to block the stench. Moreover, the area is plagued by swarms of flies drawn to the dump. The landfill in Village 11 currently holds about 30,000 tonnes of waste, sourced from ten districts, and continues to receive an additional 400 tonnes daily. However, the garbage management facility operated by the Chiang Mai Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) can only manage a maximum disposal rate of 250 tonnes per day, reported Thai PBS. In response to mounting complaints, Somchart Wattanakla, Vice Mayor of the Chiang Mai PAO, mentioned efforts to limit waste intake. "We have asked the garbage collection companies to restrict the daily trash dumped at the landfill to 300 tonnes," he stated. Additionally, fire trucks and drones have been deployed to spray Effective Microorganisms (EM) onto the waste. This technique aims to increase beneficial soil microorganisms and suppress harmful ones. To further tackle the issue, the Chiang Mai PAO plans to construct a high barrier to prevent the wind from spreading the odour to nearby villages. Recently, the Ministry of Interior approved a significant initiative: a garbage-fuelled power plant capable of processing around 650 tonnes of waste daily. The project will separate recyclable and non-degradable trash uses. Recyclable waste will be turned into compost, while non-degradable trash will be burnt as fuel for the power plant. This new infrastructure aims not only to mitigate the odour and fly problem but also to provide a more sustainable waste management solution for the region's growing garbage woes. Picture courtesy: Thai PBS -- 2024-08-06 - 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

Pattaya Police Round Up Bolt Drivers Involved in Clash with Kuwaiti Tourists By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: 77kaoded Pattaya — Pattaya Police finally managed to round up a group of Thai Bolt drivers who were involved in a massive fight with Kuwaiti tourists on Soi Yensabai earlier this weekend. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334734-pattaya-police-round-up-bolt-drivers-involved-in-clash-with-kuwaiti-tourists/

Pattaya — Pattaya Police finally managed to round up a group of Thai Bolt drivers who were involved in a massive fight with Kuwaiti tourists on Soi Yensabai earlier this weekend. On August 5th, 2024, Pol. Col. Nawin Thirawit, Superintendent of Pattaya Police Station, along with other officers, apprehended nine Bolt drivers, aged 20-30 years old. They were taken to the Pattaya police station for questioning before being formally charged with assault and property damage. The arrests followed a clash between Thai men, many of whom were Bolt drivers, and Kuwaiti tourists after an unresolved traffic accident dispute. Reports indicate that over 50 Kuwaiti men attacked a single Thai man, prompting the Thai men to retaliate, which led to the viral confrontation. The nine suspects, whose names were not disclosed by the police, admitted their involvement in the fight. They claimed that their actions were motivated by a Facebook post, which urged Pattaya locals to reclaim their honor after the alleged attack on the Thai man. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: 77kaoded Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-08-06 - 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

Motorbike Delivery Rider Attacked After Refusing to Buy Illegal Drugs in Rawai By Goongnang Suksawat Chalong, Thailand – A mobile delivery application rider was brutally attacked in Rawai after declining an offer to purchase illegal drugs. The incident occurred near a seafood restaurant at Rawai Pier on Sunday, August 4th, at 5:07 A.M. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334733-motorbike-delivery-rider-attacked-after-refusing-to-buy-illegal-drugs-in-rawai/

Chalong, Thailand – A mobile delivery application rider was brutally attacked in Rawai after declining an offer to purchase illegal drugs. The incident occurred near a seafood restaurant at Rawai Pier on Sunday, August 4th, at 5:07 A.M. Victim: Mr. Teeradet Damthip, 22, sustained head injuries from slashed wounds during the assault. According to Mr. Teeradet’s statement to the Chalong Police, he did not know the suspect. After finishing work, he was on his way home when the suspect approached him. The suspect offered him methamphetamine, which Mr. Teeradet declined, stating that he did not use drugs. In response, the suspect allegedly became aggressive, and his gang attacked Mr. Teeradet with a knife, causing the head injuries. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE OHUKET EXPRESS 2024-08-06 - 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

Croc on the run finally in the net after a week of gator-aid in Phuket by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A saltwater crocodile, which had been eluding capture for six days, was finally apprehended by local officials in Phuket. The reptile, discovered in an old mining pond, will undergo health and species checks at a coastal fisheries research centre. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334732-croc-on-the-run-finally-in-the-net-after-a-week-of-gator-aid-in-phuket/

A saltwater crocodile, which had been eluding capture for six days, was finally apprehended by local officials in Phuket. The reptile, discovered in an old mining pond, will undergo health and species checks at a coastal fisheries research centre. Security guards at a golf course in Pa Khlok, Thalang District, Phuket, first spotted the crocodile on July 31. The sighting prompted an immediate response from Thertsak Mittrawong, the district fisheries officer, along with local officials and the village headman from Moo 4, Pa Khlok. Concerned for public safety, they coordinated with experts from Panya Farm in Kamphaeng Saen, Nakhon Pathom, known for their crocodile conservation and capture training. Upon confirming that the creature was a saltwater crocodile, the team altered their strategy to encircle and capture it. Despite their best efforts, several challenges hindered the operation, and five days passed without success. Today, August 5, the pursuit team, led by Nikhom Suksawat from Panya Farm’s crack team, successfully captured the elusive crocodile. After six arduous days and nights, the reptile was finally secured. Local Phuket officials transported the crocodile to the Coastal Fisheries Research and Development Centre in either Phang Nga’s Thai Mueang or Phuket’s Ban Para in Pa Khlok, Thalang District. Initially, the crocodile will be placed in a cement pond for health and species verification. Following these checks, it will be moved to a larger pond to acclimatise. Croc on the run finally in the net after a week of gator-aid in Phuket | News by Thaiger Picture courtesy of KhaoSod The community’s response was a mix of relief and curiosity. Many locals had been on edge since the initial sighting, with some expressing concerns about the potential danger posed by the animal. “It was quite a scare for everyone here. We’re glad the authorities took swift action and finally captured it.” The capture operation involved multiple agencies and highlighted the complexities of handling wildlife in populated areas. The crocodile’s presence in a private pond within a golf course added an unusual twist to the situation, raising questions about how it ended up there in the first place. Saltwater crocodiles are known for their aggressive behaviour and ability to travel long distances in search of suitable habitats. While they are not native to Phuket, sightings have been reported occasionally, often attributed to illegal wildlife trade or escape from captivity. Authorities plan to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the crocodile’s origin. The health checks and species verification at the research centre will provide crucial information that could aid in understanding how the animal came to be in the old mining pond, said a local official. “We need to ensure that such incidents do not recur. It’s essential to understand the source and prevent future occurrences.” The incident underscores the importance of wildlife management and the challenges faced by local officials in ensuring public safety while preserving natural habitats. The collaborative effort between local officials, conservation experts, and the community played a pivotal role in resolving the situation. Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Bob Scott TOP Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-06 - 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

Indonesian Police Seize Thai Cannabis En Route to UK Marijuana-Cannabis-Weed-Bud-Gram. Representative image. Source courtesy: Wikipedia Jakarta – Indonesian police have apprehended two individuals suspected of being part of a marijuana smuggling ring, thwarting an elaborate scheme to export the drug from Southeast Asia to the United Kingdom. The suspects reportedly attempted to ship cannabis camouflaged within packages of bed linen and cat toys. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334730-indonesian-police-seize-thai-cannabis-en-route-to-uk/

Marijuana-Cannabis-Weed-Bud-Gram. Representative image. Source courtesy: Wikipedia Jakarta – Indonesian police have apprehended two individuals suspected of being part of a marijuana smuggling ring, thwarting an elaborate scheme to export the drug from Southeast Asia to the United Kingdom. The suspects reportedly attempted to ship cannabis camouflaged within packages of bed linen and cat toys. While Indonesia witnesses marijuana confiscations from time to time, the cross-border element in this case stands out. Marthinus Hukom, the head of Indonesia’s narcotics agency, mentioned, "This is a new phenomenon as the marijuana from Thailand was sent first to Indonesia then [was destined for] Europe.” He further disclosed that the culprits, both Indonesian nationals, had plans to dispatch over 100kg of cannabis from Jakarta to Liverpool. During a raid at Soekarno Hatta Airport on July 25, authorities discovered more than 30kg of marijuana concealed within bed linen and cat toys. A follow-up raid led to the unearthing of an additional 80kg of marijuana housed within a shophouse associated with the suspects. Hukom estimated the total street value of the seized cannabis at 25 billion rupiah. The detained suspects face charges under Indonesia’s stringent narcotics law, which imposes the death penalty as its maximum punishment. In a noteworthy backdrop to this incident, Thailand, a leading source of the intercepted cannabis, decriminalised marijuana in 2022, marking it as one of the first nations in Asia to do so. This shift sparked a surge in recreational use and the proliferation of cannabis cafes and retailers across the country. However, the Thai government recently announced plans to re-regulate cannabis, aiming to confine its legality strictly to medical purposes. This legislative push follows concerns over widespread recreational consumption. This case highlights the ongoing complexities and challenges in regional drug enforcement, particularly as nations adapt their drug policies. -- 2024-08-06 - 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

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 6 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1334729-thailand-live-tuesday-6-august-2024/

Thai woman loses 50,000 baht to boyfriend after 2 days of dating Photo via MGR Online A Thai woman in Bangkok lost 50,000 baht in cash to her boyfriend after only two days of dating and not even knowing his full name. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334695-thai-woman-loses-50000-baht-to-boyfriend-after-2-days-of-dating/

Thailand’s major overhaul of visas and entry rules has sparked a variety of reactions, ranging from joy and excitement to confusion and some resentment. Thailand unveils new visa rules, sparks mixed reactions Picture courtesy of ET Travel world official website Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334685-thailand-unveils-new-visa-rules-sparks-mixed-reactions/

Pattaya rebranding as family-friendly destination to boost tourism by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of tripadvisor Pattaya’s tourism operators have put forth a proposal to the tourism minister, aiming to transform the city’s image into a family-friendly destination, distancing it from associations with sex tourism and illegal gambling. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334646-pattaya-rebranding-as-family-friendly-destination-to-boost-tourism/

Pattaya’s tourism operators have put forth a proposal to the tourism minister, aiming to transform the city’s image into a family-friendly destination, distancing it from associations with sex tourism and illegal gambling. The Association of Chon Buri Tourism Federation (ACTF) recently convened with Tourism Minister Sermsak Pongpanit to discuss the initiative. The meeting also included insights from a workshop that engaged foreign tour agencies from five key markets: Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States, Germany, South Korea, China, and India. The ACTF and the minister discussed plans to collaborate on boosting Pattaya tourism and rebranding the city. Thanet Supornsahasrungsi, President of the ACTF, highlighted that Pattaya has evolved from being a nightlife hotspot to a more family-friendly city with a diverse range of activities. “Pattaya has the potential to become a city of various attractions and a hub for investment as well as world-class events.” The city offers diverse attractions such as beaches, high-standard golf courses, cultural sites, meeting facilities, and shopping malls. Its proximity to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport and U-Tapao Airport in Chon Buri, along with nearby provinces like Rayong and Bang Saen, further enhances its appeal by helping to absorb the tourist inflow. Last month, locals and operators in Pattaya protested against the Thai media’s portrayal of their city as a “Sin City.” Sex tourism Thanet noted that only those who have not visited Pattaya in over two decades still hold an outdated perception of nightlife and sex tourism. Frequent visitors and foreign travel agents recognize the city’s broader range of tourism offerings. Morrakot Kuldilok, President of the Eastern Chapter of the Thai Hotels Association and an executive of the federation, acknowledged that prostitution still exists. She suggested that local government officials should regulate the industry and provide welfare measures to protect sex workers. Given recent reports of illegal gambling near Pattaya Soi 6, Morrakot proposed establishing a legal casino operation to address the issue in Pattaya and other areas with similar activities. The ACTF also suggested that Pattaya could become Thailand’s first casino city as part of their proposal. Other areas requiring improvement include safety, cleanliness, public infrastructure, sustainability, and city zoning regulations, which need government support. Thanet pointed out that Pattaya’s zoning regulations have not been properly updated, leading to nightlife venues being mixed with hotels and residences. This mix can make some family tourists feel unsafe, reported Bangkok Post. For the upcoming high season, Thanet estimated that tourism revenue in Pattaya should recover to over 80% of the 2019 level. However, challenges remain due to Thai tourists flocking to overseas destinations and rising competition from places like Vietnam and Hainan Island in China. Picture of Pattaya Walking Street courtesy of p-thailand.co.il by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of tripadvisor Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-05 - 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 transwoman nabbed in 26 million baht scam targeting Japanese nationals by Petch Petpailin Photo via KhaoSod Metropolitan Police Bureau officers arrested a Thai transwoman yesterday after she scammed 73 Japanese nationals over a ten-year period. The total losses amounted to nearly 26 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1334644-thai-transwoman-nabbed-in-26-million-baht-scam-targeting-japanese-nationals/

Metropolitan Police Bureau officers arrested a Thai transwoman yesterday after she scammed 73 Japanese nationals over a ten-year period. The total losses amounted to nearly 26 million baht. The 49 year old Thai transwoman, Uthai “Amy” Nantakhan, was arrested yesterday, August 4, at her condominium in the Bangkapi district of Bangkok. Her arrest followed a report from the latest Japanese victim who lost 15 million baht to Amy. The 36 year old Japanese man told Thonglor Police Station officers that he met Amy in January. Amy claimed to be from Hong Kong and asked him to support her hotel stay. The two stayed in touch and later began a relationship. Amy then tricked him into buying gold for her, which she exchanged for cash before disappearing. Further investigation revealed the Japanese man was not Amy’s only victim. She had swindled money from many Japanese victims using a similar plot. Amy pretended to be a Hong Kong resident and gained sympathy with various lies. For example, she would claim to have lost her wallet and need money for passport renewal, or feign a Covid-19 infection to solicit funds for treatment. Amy also scammed victims by luring them into investing in a fake business, later claiming the project failed and her bank account was frozen. Police reported that Amy had scammed 73 Japanese victims between 2011 and 2024, with total losses of 26 million baht: 25 victims with 942,000 baht reported in 2011 9 victims with 2.2 million baht reported in 2012 16 victims with 1.6 million baht reported in 2014 2 victims with 330,000 baht reported in 2015 8 victims with 307,000 baht reported in 2018 6 victims with 293,000 baht reported in 2020 3 victims with 90,000 baht reported in 2022 1 victim with 16 million baht reported in 2023 3 victims with 4.1 million baht reported in 2024 Amy was charged under Section 341 of the Criminal Law: committing fraud. The penalty is imprisonment of up to three years, a fine of up to 60,000 baht, or both. In a related report, a Japanese man was arrested on July 30 after he attempted to sexually assault a drunk Thai woman. The Japanese man approached the woman while she was sitting in the Royal City Avenue (RCA) car park and attempted to take her to his hotel room, but the woman managed to escape from him and reported the matter to the police. by Petch Petpailin Photo via KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-05 - 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