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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/

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. The course, allegedly substandard, charges nearly a million baht for enrolment and study, sparking significant concerns among students. Minister Supamas Isarabhakdi has directed Supachai Pathumnakul, the ministry's permanent secretary, to form an investigative team following publicity from Weerachai Phutthawong, a lecturer at Kasetsart University. Mr Weerachai shared on Facebook about student grievances regarding the course, available at this Bangkok university. Students reported that the university promised to confer degrees upon full payment of the course fees. However, they experienced frequent cancellations of classes, despite hefty fees comprising 500,000 baht for enrolment alongside nearly 500,000 baht in additional concealed costs. The university's promotional materials suggested that graduates would receive an aircraft repair certificate accredited by the European Aviation Safety Agency. Nevertheless, the certificates awarded upon graduation were from a private company that conducted training during the course. Graduates claimed these certificates were not recognised by potential employers, reported Bangkok Post The spotlight now lies on whether the ministry’s investigation will lead to any changes. If the probe confirms these allegations, it could have broader implications for educational standards and student protection in the aviation sector across Thailand. -- 2024-10-23

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/

In a significant standoff on Koh Samui yesterday, local authorities' attempts to enforce demolition of 11 unauthorised luxury villas hit a legal roadblock. The villas, part of the Ariya Residence project, are situated in Moo 3, Maret, and have been under scrutiny due to violations of the Building Control Act of 2522 (1979). Leading the operation, Koh Samui Mayor Ramnet Jaikang and legal officer Pallop Meepian, accompanied by police and environmental officials, sought to implement a demolition order issued in 2019. The order demanded the structures be dismantled within 90 days, citing legal non-compliance. Despite follow-up notices in April 2024, the villa owners had not adhered to these orders. Upon attempting to access the site at 10 am, officials were thwarted by barricades and a "Private Property, No Entry" sign. The project's lawyer intervened, informing officials a petition to annul the demolition order had been submitted just days prior. The legal representative argued the municipality's initial actions were flawed, with plans to challenge the enforcement in the administrative court. “We believe that the municipality’s actions are not under the law, and we will take this matter to court,” stated the project's lawyer, underscoring the owners' resolve to counter the municipal directive legally. Foiled in their efforts, municipal official Pallop filed a formal report with Bo Phut Police Station to escalate the situation legally. Meanwhile, the Fourth Army Area Command underscored an urgent need to enforce administrative protocols, maintaining that the villas must eventually face lawful dismantling. As this legal battle progresses, the spotlight remains on whether the Koh Samui municipality can uphold its demolition orders amidst intensified legal scrutiny and the owners' determined opposition. The resolution of this dispute may set a significant precedent for similar cases across Thailand. Picture courtesy: Wochenblitz -- 2024-10-23

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/

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. The court has given the OAG a 15-day deadline to gather necessary witness statements and evidence and submit them for further judicial review. This appeal comes after activist lawyer Thirayut Suwankesorn lodged the complaint with the OAG last month, only to see little movement within the initial period. Frustrated, he brought the case to the Constitutional Court earlier in the month. Key allegations include Thaksin's undue influence over the Pheu Thai Party, allegedly orchestrating its activities behind the scenes. Thirayut's complaint highlights a clandestine meeting at Thaksin's house in Bangkok, following former PM Srettha Thavisin's dismissal, where Thaksin purportedly guided coalition leaders to quickly identify a successor. Further accusations involve Thaksin's alleged manipulation of Pheu Thai's exclusion of the Palang Pracharath Party, led by Prawit Wongsuwan, from the coalition. It's claimed Thaksin used televised speeches to mould government policies, notably those regarding natural resource development around Koh Koot islands, leveraging a historic relationship with Cambodia's former PM Hun Sen. Additionally, Thaksin is accused of exploiting his influence to avoid imprisonment, benefiting from a royal pardon and evading actual prison time under the guise of requiring medical treatment, reported Thai Newsroom. Should the court find Thaksin guilty, potential consequences include imprisonment for Thaksin and the dissolution of the Pheu Thai Party, which would temporarily bar its executive board members, including his daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra, from holding political office. -- 2024-10-23

Source: Kanisorn Pringthongfoo / Shutterstock.com King Chulalongkorn Day, October 23rd King Chulalongkorn Day is a national holiday observed on October 23rd every year in commemoration of His Majesty King Chulalongkorn the Great's passing. King Chulalongkorn is renowned for the modernization of Siam and major reforms, founding its first university , and abolishing slavery. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341354-king-chulalongkorn-day-october-23rd/

King Chulalongkorn Day, October 23rd Source: Kanisorn Pringthongfoo / Shutterstock.com King Chulalongkorn Day is a national holiday observed on October 23rd every year in commemoration of His Majesty King Chulalongkorn the Great's passing. King Chulalongkorn is renowned for the modernization of Siam and major reforms, founding its first university , and abolishing slavery. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341354-king-chulalongkorn-day-october-23rd/

Source: Kanisorn Pringthongfoo / Shutterstock.com King Chulalongkorn Day is a national holiday observed on October 23rd every year in commemoration of His Majesty King Chulalongkorn the Great's passing. King Chulalongkorn is renowned for the modernization of Siam and major reforms, founding its first university , and abolishing slavery. As the fifth monarch of the Chakri dynasty, King Chulalongkorn is known as King Rama V and is grandfather to His Majesty the Late King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great (King Rama IX). The reformist monarch Early on in his reign, more than a third of the Siamese population were slaves. Those who could not live independently sold themselves into indentured servitude, which would be passed onto their children, forming multi-generational slave families. King Chulalongkorn interceded, enacting a royal decree to reduce the price of redemption for slaves born in 1868, allowing those slave children to be freed by the age of 21. By 1905, the Slave Abolition Act ended Siamese slavery in its entirety, and slave owners were forced to reduce their slaves' debt by 1 baht per month until they were free. In homage to the Act, the reverse side of the 100 baht banknote (Series 15, Type 2) depicts King Chulalongkorn in Royal Thai Navy Uniform, abolishing the slave tradition. Now, the monarch is also referred to as Phra Piyamaharaj or the “Great Beloved King,” as well as Phra Phuttha Chao Lhuang or the “Royal Buddha.” The Equestrian Statue The majority of Dusit district in Bangkok was built during the reign of King Chulalongkorn, and the surviving buildings show a mix of Thai and European-style architecture. There, in the Royal Plaza, stands the Equestrian Statue of King Rama V, in front of Ananta Samakhom Throne Hall. Originally, the bronze sculpture was built to commemorate the 40th anniversary of King Chulalongkorn's reign, who, at the time, was the longest-reigning monarch in Siamese history. The statue was inspired by the Equestrian Statue of King Louis XIV at the Palace of Versailles in France, following the Siamese monarch's “Grand Tour of Europe” in 1907. On this day, Thais show their respect to the great reformer by placing wreaths at the Equestrian Statue. In addition, the Chulalongkorn rose, a thorn-free pink rose, is offered to represent the everlasting love of Princess Dara Rasmi and King Chulalongkorn. Source: Royal Thai Consulate Xian -- 2024-10-22

Heavy rain and flash floods expected as storm Trami intensifies by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Tom De Decker, Unsplash The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued a warning about the intensifying tropical storm Trami, which is expected to bring heavy rainfall to lower northern, central, eastern, and upper southern regions, including Bangkok and its vicinity. Residents are advised to be cautious of flash floods and forest runoffs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341350-heavy-rain-and-flash-floods-expected-as-storm-trami-intensifies/