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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/

At least five dead in attack at Turkish aviation company Vicky Wong, Frank Gardner video screenshot At least five people have been killed and 22 injured in an attack at the headquarters of an aviation company near the Turkish capital Ankara, authorities have confirmed. Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya said that two attackers, a woman and a man, have been "neutralised", adding that the attack had most likely involved Kurdish separatists the PKK. Initial images shown by the NTV television channel showed a large cloud of smoke in front of the entrance of Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), which is located some 40km (25 miles) outside the capital. No group has said it carried out the attack. Full story: BBC -- 2024-10-24

Part of Koh Kham Island for Sale for 1.8 Billion Baht File photo courtesy: TAT, Trat Office A portion of Koh Kham, an eastern Thai island, is for sale at B1.8 billion. Known for its pristine beauty and incomplete resort structures, this offering has caught the attention of prospective buyers and holidaymakers alike. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341531-part-of-koh-kham-island-for-sale-for-18-billion-baht/

File photo courtesy: TAT, Trat Office A portion of Koh Kham, an eastern Thai island, is for sale at B1.8 billion. Known for its pristine beauty and incomplete resort structures, this offering has caught the attention of prospective buyers and holidaymakers alike. Listed by Facebook user Apassara Sonsab, this "private island" spans about 10 rai, featuring clear waters, a 300-metre sandy beach, and scenic volcanic rock formations. Situated 35 kilometres from mainland Trat and a mere kilometre from Koh Mak, the allure of this island lies in its tranquil and picturesque surroundings. Despite the sales pitch, the Tourism Authority of Thailand's Trat office assures that the island's attractions are accessible for all. Tourists can visit Koh Kham via motorboat or kayak from Koh Mak, experiencing its volcanic history and diverse marine life without needing to purchase it. Interestingly, Koh Kham was once the site of controversy. Back in 2014, local authorities charged the landowner with forest and sea encroachment due to unauthorised construction, including a 148-metre bridge and extensive land reclamation efforts. These issues, however, seem to have been eclipsed by the current sale initiative. According to Nol Suwatchananont, president of the Koh Mak administrative organisation, the land ownership has shifted hands multiple times, with the current title held by a restaurateur from Chon Buri. The intention to sell a prime slice of Koh Kham is genuine, adding a twist to the island's story, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-24

All 14 Defendants in Tak Bai Massacre Cases Flee Country, Senate Committee Reports According to police reports submitted to the Senate committee on public participation, human rights, and consumer protection, all 14 defendants and suspects involved in the two Tak Bai massacre cases have left Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341441-all-14-defendants-in-tak-bai-massacre-cases-flee-country-senate-committee-reports/

Koh Samui Villas Encounter Demolition Delay as Legal Dispute Unfolds In a significant standoff on Koh Samui yesterday, local authorities' attempts to enforce demolition of 11 unauthorised luxury villas hit a legal roadblock. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341452-koh-samui-villas-encounter-demolition-delay-as-legal-dispute-unfolds/

Constitutional Court Presses OAG to Proceed with Thaksin Lawsuit Picture courtesy: MGR online The Constitutional Court has urged the Office of the Attorney-General (OAG) to take prompt action on a lawsuit filed against Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential figure behind the Pheu Thai Party. This legal action, which accuses the former PM and the ruling party of wrongdoing, has stalled, prompting the court's intervention. Fulln story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341450-constitutional-court-presses-oag-to-proceed-with-thaksin-lawsuit/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 24 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1341511-thailand-live-thursday-24-october-2024/

English Tourist Riding Wrong Way on Jomtien Beach Road Crashes into Parked Car A foreign tourist, allegedly heavily intoxicated, crashed his motorcycle into a parked car on Jomtien Beach Road, resulting in injuries and damage to both vehicles. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341478-english-tourist-riding-wrong-way-on-jomtien-beach-road-crashes-into-parked-car/

video screenshot A large explosion occurred at Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAS), Ankara, causing three deaths and many injuries. As a notable hub for Turkey's defence development, TUSAS is now at the centre of a reported terrorist act. Turkish Interior Minister, Ali Yerlikaya, confirmed this, declaring the attack in an official statement, underscoring the deeply targeted nature of the incident against National Security. The sequence unfolded with chilling precision. According to Anil Sahin, a defence industry researcher, the attackers approached the facility via taxi, a seemingly innocuous method covering sinister intent. Live footage caught by the IHA news agency captured both the explosion's aftermath and gunfire sounds, further illuminating the chaotic scene. A heavily damaged yellow taxi, linked to the attackers, was visible at the blast site. Media reports suggest that at least two individuals, including a female, were seen armed with long-barrel rifles within the compound. Their presence underscores a deliberate and coordinated attempt to breach security, suggestive of further violent intentions. Inside TUSAS, employees scrambled to secure themselves, as the attack spread confusion and fear. The immediate mobilisation of police and emergency services highlighted the grave nature of this assault, not just on those physically present, but also on Turkey’s broader defence infrastructure. While ongoing investigations aim to uncover the full extent of this attack's motive, this tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of vulnerabilities amidst global defence sectors, reported One India. The attack on TUSAS has reverberated beyond Ankara, stressing the importance of heightened security against potential threats within strategic industries worldwide. As further details emerge, the international community watches keenly, standing in solidarity with those affected. -- 2024-10-24

Please continue here: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341459-myanmar-mother-flees-nakhon-pathom-hospital-with-newborn-due-to-medical-costs/

Search for Myanmar Mother & Newborn After Hospital Escape Due to Financial Concerns In a distressing situation, authorities were searching for a 28-year-old Myanmar woman, Ms. Win, who fled from Nakhon Pathom Hospital with her 19-day-old son after learning she could not afford the medical costs. The infant was diagnosed with a urinary tract infection and required further treatment. On October 2, Ms. Win gave birth to her son at Nakhon Pathom Hospital. However, the medical staff soon realised that the newborn was in a weak condition and needed additional care. Concerned for the child’s health, the hospital staff monitored the child closely. On discovering that Ms. Win and her husband had suddenly left the hospital with their son, hospital personnel reviewed surveillance footage and confirmed the couple’s departure. Fearing for the baby’s life, given his medical condition, the hospital director, Dr. Surachai Chokkranchitchai, immediately contacted local law enforcement for assistance in locating the family. Police officers from the Nakhon Pathom Highway Police Division, led by Sergeant Sirawat Wangkum and Corporal Nantawut Somboonbadee, were dispatched to track down the family. They learned that Ms. Win was working as a labourer in a nearby community in Nakhon Chai Si district. After a search, officers located Ms. Win and her child at a workers’ housing facility where she lived. The police engaged in discussions with her, emphasising the critical need for her baby to receive medical care to avoid potentially life-threatening complications. Upon understanding the gravity of the situation, Ms. Win agreed to take her son back to the hospital. Emergency medical services were arranged to transport the infant back for necessary treatment. During questioning, Ms. Win expressed her fears about the inability to pay for her son’s medical expenses, which prompted her decision to leave the hospital. Dr. Surachai assured her that Nakhon Pathom Hospital would provide care for the critically ill newborn and cover the medical costs to relieve the family’s burden. The hospital aims to stabilise the infant’s condition and ensure a safe recovery, highlighting the challenges faced by migrant families in accessing healthcare. Picture from responders. -- 2024-10-23

Myanmar Mother Flees Nakhon Pathom Hospital with Newborn Due to Medical Costs Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A Myanmar mother, identified as Win, fled from Nakhon Pathom Hospital with her newborn son, who was suffering from a serious infection. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341459-myanmar-mother-flees-nakhon-pathom-hospital-with-newborn-due-to-medical-costs/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath A Myanmar mother, identified as Win, fled from Nakhon Pathom Hospital with her newborn son, who was suffering from a serious infection. The incident occurred after she feared being unable to afford the medical bills. The baby, born on 2 October, was only 19 days old and had a urinary tract infection, requiring ongoing treatment. The hospital staff noticed the child’s disappearance and, after checking CCTV footage, confirmed that Win and her husband had taken the baby. Concerned for the child’s life, hospital officials contacted the Nakhon Chai Si Police and the Nakhon Pathom Highway Patrol for assistance. Authorities eventually located the family at a workers' residence where Win was employed. After negotiations, Win agreed to return the baby to the hospital, where further treatment was arranged, reported Siam Rath. Win later admitted that her decision to flee stemmed from financial concerns. Nakhon Pathom Hospital’s Director, Dr. Surachai Chokkarachitchai, assured that the hospital would cover the costs of the baby’s treatment until his condition stabilises. -- 2024-10-23

Korean Man Arrested at Phuket Airport with 6kg of Meth Picture courtesy: INN News Thai Customs officers have seized 6kg of crystal methamphetamine, known as "ice," worth an estimated 1.8 million baht, from a South Korean man attempting to fly to Hong Kong. The incident occurred at Phuket International Airport on 20 October 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341458-korean-man-arrested-at-phuket-airport-with-6kg-of-meth/

Thai Customs officers have seized 6kg of crystal methamphetamine, known as "ice," worth an estimated 1.8 million baht, from a South Korean man attempting to fly to Hong Kong. The incident occurred at Phuket International Airport on 20 October 2024. Phanthong Loykulnan, Customs Department spokesman, stated that the Anti-Smuggling Division and Phuket Customs, alongside the Airport Interdiction Task Force (AITF), had been investigating a drug smuggling network using airports to export narcotics. The suspect, identified as a South Korean national, was flagged as a potential risk and was scheduled to fly from Phuket to Hong Kong. Upon inspecting his luggage, Customs officers found suspiciously dense items. Further inspection of the suspect's suitcase revealed 30 boxes of soap and other personal belongings. Hidden inside the soap were plastic-wrapped packets containing tightly packed white crystals. Preliminary testing with ONCB 051 MARQUIS REAGENT confirmed the substance as crystal methamphetamine, a Category 1 narcotic, weighing 6,000 grams including packaging, reported INN News. The Customs Department spokesperson noted that in the 2024 fiscal year (1 October 2024 – 21 October 2024), Thai Customs has recorded ten drug seizures, with a total value of 28.81 million baht. Legal proceedings have been initiated against the suspect. Picture courtesy: INN News -- 2024-10-23

iCon case: DSI Seizes 'Boss Paul’ Hidden Luxury Watches and Gold Worth ฿40m Picture courtesy: Siam Rath The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) conducted a raid, seizing luxury assets belonging to "Boss Paul" that were hidden in a rental room on Soi Ram Inthra 9, Anusawari, Bang Khen District, Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341455-icon-case-dsi-seizes-boss-paul’-hidden-luxury-watches-and-gold-worth-฿40m/

The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) conducted a raid, seizing luxury assets belonging to "Boss Paul" that were hidden in a rental room on Soi Ram Inthra 9, Anusawari, Bang Khen District, Bangkok. The seized items included 19 luxury watches, with two notable pieces being a Richard Mille RM 53-01 and a Richard Mille RM 35-02, valued together at over ฿33 million. Other items included amulets, gold necklaces, and several branded shoes and bags, amounting to a total estimated value of ฿40 million. Police Lieutenant Colonel Wisanu Chimtrakun, Deputy Director-General of the DSI, revealed that the raid followed a tip-off from a citizen who had spotted a yellow supercar with a distinctive number plate. The witness saw "Boss Paul" inspecting the rental room, and the next day, "Boss Off," Paul’s close associate, arranged the lease and paid the rent. On 1st October, numerous large boxes containing valuables were moved into the room. No one had returned to the property since, confirming that the room was used to hide assets rather than for living purposes. The DSI has confiscated all the items and will conduct a thorough inspection. A full report on the findings will be presented on 24th October, reported Siam Rath. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-10-23

Investigation Launched into High-Cost University Aircraft Course File photo for reference only The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation has launched an investigation into a complaint against a Bangkok university's costly aircraft repair technician course. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341454-investigation-launched-into-high-cost-university-aircraft-course/