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Photo courtesy: X@Ittipat_tv via Daily Mail Online Six Vietnamese individuals were discovered dead inside a Bangkok hotel room on Tuesday evening, leading to a police investigation. The tragic episode unfolded at the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel in the Pathum Wan district. Officers were alerted to the scene around 5.30 pm and quickly determined that the six victims, three men and three women, had no signs of a struggle. Among the deceased were two Vietnamese-Americans and four Vietnamese nationals. Police found their luggage near the front door, an indication that the group had not just arrived but had settled in. Investigators are currently reviewing closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage and questioning hotel staff and other witnesses to piece together the events leading up to this tragedy. The initial assessment revealed no bruising on the bodies, leading authorities to suspect poisoning as the cause of death. While forensic examinations confirmed the poisoning, it remains unclear whether the act was self-inflicted or if the individuals were victims of foul play. The police have yet to find any poison containers or additional evidence that could provide immediate answers. This incident has left many questions unanswered. According to preliminary media reports, there were erroneous claims about the victims being killed in a shootout, which were quickly debunked following the police's initial findings. As it stands, the focus remains on uncovering the nature of the poisoning and the events leading up to the victims' deaths. The Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel, typically a hive of bustling tourists and business travelers, has been thrust into the spotlight for unfortunate reasons. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as they continue to sift through clues. The Vietnamese community in Bangkok and abroad are in shock, hoping for swift answers to what transpired in room 427. Residents and travellers alike remain tense, awaiting further news. The police have assured a thorough investigation to uncover the truth behind this puzzling tragedy, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Escort scam: Thai man assaulted & robbed in Chiang Mai hotel trap by Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek A Thai man filed a complaint against a male escort and his four friends after they lured him to a hotel in the northern province of Chiang Mai before physically assaulting and robbing him. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333056-escort-scam-thai-man-assaulted-robbed-in-chiang-mai-hotel-trap/

A Thai man filed a complaint against a male escort and his four friends after they lured him to a hotel in the northern province of Chiang Mai before physically assaulting and robbing him. The victim, 31 year old Korn, told officers at Doi Saket Police Station that he lost cash, a mobile phone valued at about 20,000 baht, and a smartwatch to a male escort, whose name he did not know, and four of his friends at a hotel in the Doi Saket district of Chiang Mai province. Korn revealed to police that he hired a man to provide a sex service and met him at the hotel. When Korn arrived, the escort excused himself to use the bathroom before their sexual activities. However, he came out of the bathroom with four other men. Two of them, sporting knuckle dusters on their hands, attacked Korn and threatened him to transfer money to their bank account. They then forced Korn to hand over his phone and smartwatch before he managed to sneak out of the room. The hotel’s security camera captured the moment when Korn ran from the hotel room to save his life. The five thieves were seen running after him before leaving the hotel. Police told Channel 3 that they managed to identify all of the suspects, who were teenagers. Two of them had been previously arrested and punished for similar crimes. A similar incident occurred with a Canadian man in Pattaya last week. The foreign victim told Pattaya police that he hired two Ugandan women to provide him with a sex service at a hotel on Pattaya-Na Kluea Road on June 10 but he woke the next day to find that 90,000 baht in cash was missing. The two Ugandan thieves were later arrested in the area. Another similar theft was reported in 2022 when a man lost 1,200 baht to two Thai sex workers in the Isaan province of Loei. He transferred a deposit for their service but they did not come to meet him and immediately blocked his contact. by Petch Petpailin Photo via KomChadLuek Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai couple arrested for illegal wildlife trade in Surin province by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Police arrested a Thai couple involved in the illegal wildlife trade, confiscating two tiger cubs, two pairs of Thai elephant tusks, and 26 pieces of African elephant tusks worth millions of baht. Efforts are underway to rescue an additional four tiger cubs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333050-thai-couple-arrested-for-illegal-wildlife-trade-in-surin-province/

Police arrested a Thai couple involved in the illegal wildlife trade, confiscating two tiger cubs, two pairs of Thai elephant tusks, and 26 pieces of African elephant tusks worth millions of baht. Efforts are underway to rescue an additional four tiger cubs. The operation, led by Director of the National Parks Office Chaiwat Limlikhitaksorn and officers from Dom Police Station in Surin province, was carried out yesterday. Officers, led by Police Colonel Yuthana Jaturat, successfully planned and executed a sting operation to apprehend the couple. The suspects, identified as 49 year old Karit and 48 year old Manat, were caught with the contraband at a roundabout in Ban Lantae, Theparak subdistrict. Police had been tracking the illegal wildlife trade network for some time, which was known for its long-standing reputation in the area. The plan involved negotiating the purchase of eight tiger cubs after the suspects posted about selling tiger cubs and ivory in a private Line group. To gain the suspects’ trust, the officials arranged for the illegal goods to be transported from Mukdahan province to the rendezvous point. However, it is believed that the main suspect became suspicious and instructed the couple to deliver only two tiger cubs and a portion of the ivory instead. Police inspected the designated location and found a grey Mercedes-Benz sedan with registration number ฐฐ 7245 Bangkok. Inside the car, they discovered a pair of tiger cubs, approximately two to three months old, confined in a cage in the back seat. They also found two pairs of large Thai elephant tusks, each weighing 50 kilogrammes, valued at 20,000 baht per kilogramme, totalling over 2 million baht. Additionally, 26 pieces of African elephant tusks, weighing 49.8 kilogrammes and worth millions of baht, were found packed in fertilizer bags in the car’s boot. The couple was immediately detained and brought in for questioning by the Dom Police Station about the origin of the seized items. Legal action During the interrogation, the suspects claimed that the tiger cubs were not theirs and had been left in their care along with the African elephant tusks. They asserted that they had documentation for the Thai elephant tusks but did not provide it to the police and refused to offer any useful information. The investigation is ongoing to identify and apprehend the main suspect behind this operation. Initially, the couple was handed over to Police Lieutenant Samart Klongdee at Dom Police Station to face charges for possessing and trading wildlife without permission, violating the Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act 2019. “We have been monitoring this network for a long time. It is a very large network, and this seizure is just the beginning. It is crucial not only to apprehend the suspects but also to ensure the survival of the tigers. This is only a small part of what the suspects are involved in. I must thank our dedicated and self-sacrificing team.” Efforts are being made to locate and rescue the remaining four tiger cubs. The two seized cubs will undergo health checks and be cared for according to standard procedures. Regarding the Thai elephant tusks, the suspects claimed to have evidence of their acquisition but this was not provided. The tusks had stickers attached, which would need to be verified to determine their legitimacy, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Students report being misled into bizarre camp in Thailand by Puntid Tantivangphaisa Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Several students from a renowned university in northeastern Thailand have reported being misled by senior students into attending a peculiar camp that deviated from Buddhist teachings. The camp involved strange rituals, including chanting hundreds of times and creating heavenly passports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333049-students-report-being-misled-into-bizarre-camp-in-thailand/

Several students from a renowned university in northeastern Thailand have reported being misled by senior students into attending a peculiar camp that deviated from Buddhist teachings. The camp involved strange rituals, including chanting hundreds of times and creating heavenly passports. Students from a well-known university in northeastern Thailand raised concerns about a camp they were taken to by senior students, under the guise of a volunteer camp. The students, who included high schoolers, were transported to the camp around midnight. The location was described as very dark, and upon arrival, participants were subjected to unusual rituals such as speaking their names, burning names, and pressing their foreheads to open the third eye, said one student. “When we searched the camp’s name on Google, it came up as permanently closed.” The camp had an entry fee but only provided one bottle of water, which participants were expected to refill themselves. Activities at the camp involved physical pain, purportedly as a means to ward off bad luck. There were no clear daily schedules, and participants were required to adhere to a vegetarian diet and chant hundreds of times while bowing repeatedly. “Whenever we asked the staff about the activities, they gave the same scripted responses, as if they were brainwashed.” Some students claimed that professors and deans had accompanied them to the camp. Among the peculiar activities was the creation of heavenly passports, which were said to be shown to Yama, the lord of death, upon dying. These passports contained personal information similar to that found on an ID card and were intended to remove the holder’s name from the list of those destined for hell, thereby granting them access to heaven. The students have urged the university to investigate these activities, as the camp also charged around 300 baht for participation. They expressed concern over the legitimacy and safety of the camp and the unusual practices it promoted. The university is expected to take these reports seriously and conduct a thorough investigation to ensure the safety and well-being of its students, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisa Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok SWAT Nabs Gunman from House Ceiling Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a high-stakes operation, a SWAT team from Bangkok’s Metropolitan Police captured a notorious gunman, previously involved in a pivotal public shooting, who was found hiding in a ceiling compartment. The incident unfolded yesterday in the Min Buri district, known for its recurrent gun and drug violations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333047-bangkok-swat-nabs-gunman-from-house-ceiling/

In a high-stakes operation, a SWAT team from Bangkok’s Metropolitan Police captured a notorious gunman, previously involved in a pivotal public shooting, who was found hiding in a ceiling compartment. The incident unfolded yesterday in the Min Buri district, known for its recurrent gun and drug violations. The police, armed with a court warrant, targeted a residential area following reliable intelligence about illegal firearms and substance trafficking. Upon their arrival, the occupants of the targeted house initially refused entry, setting a tense stage for the raid. While multiple individuals tried to escape, they were promptly detained by strategically positioned officers. During the house search, significant evidence was found, including attempts to dispose of ketamine in a toilet—though unsuccessfully. The pivotal moment came when officers detected suspicious movements above and resorted to deploying tear gas to flush out the gunman. This action prompted the suspect, identified as 32-year-old Tanongsak, to emerge forcibly through the ceiling, attempting an escape only to be captured at the front door. Tanongsak, infamously linked to a violent altercation involving a flight attendant's vehicle following a road rage incident last year, had been evading the police since an arrest warrant was issued in December 2022. His capture marks a significant breakthrough in the police’s ongoing efforts to curb violent crime in Bangkok. Further, a secondary suspect, Chakrapong, age 28, was apprehended with multiple packets of ketamine, prepared for distribution, underscoring the location’s role in local drug trade networks. Both suspects have been taken to Min Buri Police Station, where they face multiple charges. This crackdown not only signifies a win against localized crime in Bangkok but also serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing issues of gun control and drug trafficking plageting the city. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand weather: Heavy rainfall and storms in 57 provinces by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Earth.org Thailand faces severe weather, with heavy rain and thunderstorms across 57 provinces, particularly in the northeast and east regions, with rainfall expected in up to 80% of these areas. The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) forecasts severe weather conditions due to a strong monsoon trough. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333046-thailand-weather-heavy-rainfall-and-storms-in-57-provinces/

Thailand faces severe weather, with heavy rain and thunderstorms across 57 provinces, particularly in the northeast and east regions, with rainfall expected in up to 80% of these areas. The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) forecasts severe weather conditions due to a strong monsoon trough. The TMD predicted that Thailand will experience heavy rain and thunderstorms today, July 16. A powerful monsoon trough is passing through the north and entering a low-pressure area in the eastern part of the northeast. Coupled with a strong southwest monsoon covering the south, east, and central Thailand, including the Andaman Sea, and the Gulf of Thailand, these conditions are expected to result in widespread thunderstorms and heavy rain in several areas. Residents in the affected regions should be cautious of potential dangers from heavy to very heavy rainfall and accumulated precipitation, which could cause flash floods and runoff, particularly in foothill areas near waterways and low-lying areas. The Andaman Sea and the upper Gulf of Thailand will experience rough seas, with waves reaching 2 to 3 metres and more than 3 metres in areas with thunderstorms and harsh weather. In the lower Andaman Sea, waves are expected to be around 2 metres, exceeding 2 metres in thunderstorm areas. Thailand’s mariners in these areas should exercise caution and avoid sailing in regions experiencing rough weather. Small boats in the upper Andaman Sea and the upper Gulf of Thailand are advised to stay ashore. Regional updates The north will see thunderstorms in 70% of the area, with heavy rain expected in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, Uttaradit, Tak, Sukhothai, Kamphaeng Phet, Phitsanulok, Phichit, and Phetchabun. Temperatures will range from a low of 24°C to 27 degrees Celcius (°C) and a high of 29°C to 34°C, with variable winds ranging from 10 to 20 kilometres per hour (km/h). The northeast will experience thunderstorms in 80% of the area, including heavy rain in Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lam Phu, Udon Thani, Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Maha Sarakham, Roi Et, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Surin, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani. Temperatures will range from 23°C to 25°C and a high of 27°C to 30°C, with variable winds ranging from 10 to 20 km/h. The central region will have thunderstorms in 70% of the area, with heavy to very heavy rain in Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chai Nat, Sing Buri, Ang Thong, Lop Buri, Saraburi, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, and Ratchaburi. Temperatures will vary from 23°C to 26°C to a high of 28°C to 33°C, with southwest winds at 10 to 25 km/h. The east will see thunderstorms in 80% of the area, with heavy to very heavy rain in Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Sa Kaeo, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Temperatures will range from 23°C to 27°C to a high of 28°C to 32°C, with southwest winds at 20 to 40 km/h. The sea will have waves of 2 to 3 metres, exceeding 3 metres in thunderstorm areas. In the south (east coast), thunderstorms will occur in 60% of the area, with heavy rain in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, and Surat Thani. Temperatures will range from 23°C to 25°C to a high of 32°C to 35°C. Surat Thani and above will experience southwest winds at 20 to 35 km/h, with waves around two metres, exceeding two metres in thunderstorm areas. From Nakhon Si Thammarat downwards, southwest winds will be 15 to 35 km/h, with waves of 1 to 2 metres, exceeding 2 metres in thunderstorm areas. Southern rain In the south (west coast), thunderstorms will affect 60% of the area, with heavy to very heavy rain in Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, and Krabi. Temperatures will range from 24°C to 27°C to a high of 29°C to 33°C. From Phuket upwards, southwest winds will be 20 to 40 km/h, with waves of 2 to 3 metres, exceeding 3 metres in thunderstorm areas. From Krabi downwards, southwest winds will be 20 to 35 km/h, with waves around 2 metres, exceeding 2 metres in thunderstorm areas. Bangkok and its vicinity will have thunderstorms in 70% of the area, with heavy rain in some places. Temperatures will range from 25°C to 27°C to a high of 30°C to 32°C, with southwest winds at 10 to 25 km/h. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Earth.org Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM sets date for registration of 10,000 baht digital wallet Image courtesy: Bangkokbiz News In a bid to rejuvenate the Thai economy, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has announced that registration for a 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme will open on August 1. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333044-pm-sets-date-for-registration-of-10000-baht-digital-wallet/

In a bid to rejuvenate the Thai economy, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has announced that registration for a 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme will open on August 1st. This initiative, designed to boost local spending and aid economic recovery, is marked by strategic planning and significant budget adjustments. During a recent announcement, Prime Minister Thavisin stated that the program aims to distribute financial aid directly to the citizens, ensuring swift and substantial economic stimulus. The move came after a Digital Wallet Policy Committee meeting which focused heavily on the integrity and execution of the program. Measures have been put in place to monitor and prevent irregularities, and thorough checks will ensure that only eligible recipients benefit. Finance authorities have opted against borrowing from the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives, instead reducing the total budget from 500 billion baht to 450 billion baht. This adjustment will not impact the program’s reach; it still targets 50 million people. The Deputy Finance Minister, Julapun Amornvivat, who is also overseeing the scheme’s financial management, explained that the revised budget would be sourced from the fiscal budgets of 2024 and 2025. The reductions and fiscal strategies have been designed to sustain the program and handle any potential over-registration, which has been a challenge in similar past initiatives. This pragmatic approach also extends to vendor participation, with those previously involved in breaches of state project conditions being potentially excluded. The government is scheduled to release further details on July 24, including comprehensive guidelines for registration and criteria for the selection of vendors. These details are crucial as they will dictate the operational framework of the scheme. Chief Government Whip Wisut Chainaroon emphasized the importance of passing the related budget bill swiftly to facilitate the timely disbursement of funds. Despite opposition objections and potential legal challenges, the government remains committed to implementing the digital wallet scheme by the end of the year, aiming to bolster the grassroots economy effectively. Image courtesy: Bangkokbiz News -- 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Govt Disputes Claims of Deserted Tourist Spots Cha-am beach. File photo courtesy: Wikimedia Government Spokesperson Chai Wacharonke has refuted recent claims about deserted tourist spots in Thailand, specifically Cha-am Beach and Amphawa Floating Market. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333043-thai-govt-disputes-claims-of-deserted-tourist-spots/

Government Spokesperson Chai Wacharonke has refuted recent claims about deserted tourist spots in Thailand, specifically Cha-am Beach and Amphawa Floating Market. Reports circulating on social media suggested a decline in visitors to these attractions, supported by a viral video depicting an empty Cha-am Beach on a Sunday and assertions of low footfall at Amphawa Floating Market amid economic challenges. Chai condemned these reports as fake news aimed at damaging Thailand's tourism reputation, emphasizing that both destinations continue to attract tourists. He cited the Thai Hotels Association (THA) president and local business owners who affirmed that Cha-am Beach remains popular, with hotel occupancy rates ranging from 50% to 60%. Bookings for an upcoming holiday indicate a promising 70% to 75% occupancy. Furthermore, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) officials visited Cha-am Beach, reporting higher activity levels than suggested by viral posts. Similarly, at Amphawa Floating Market, TAT representatives observed a steady flow of Thai and international visitors enjoying the market's offerings. While acknowledging a post-pandemic recovery phase, local officials noted significant tourist interest, especially from Chinese travelers. Addressing concerns raised by the viral video, Amphawa subdistrict mayor Krittaya Meetawee clarified that the footage captured an area outside the main tourist zone. He reassured that economic challenges faced by some market businesses have been addressed, with operations fully resumed. In conclusion, both Cha-am Beach and Amphawa Floating Market remain vibrant tourist destinations despite misleading social media reports, reaffirmed by local authorities and tourism officials. TOP: Cha-am beach. File photo courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

TikTok trend: ‘Jackpot’ with dead jackfruit trees worth millions by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Sanook A TikTok user shared a video revealing the surprising value of dead jackfruit trees, also known as jackfruit standing dead. The clip quickly gained attention when she mentioned that such trees could sell for millions of baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333041-tiktok-trend-‘jackpot’-with-dead-jackfruit-trees-worth-millions/

Picture courtesy of Sanook A TikTok user shared a video revealing the surprising value of dead jackfruit trees, also known as jackfruit standing dead. The clip quickly gained attention when she mentioned that such trees could sell for millions of baht. The woman, under the account, kate_tell_story, explained that she had come across content on TikTok suggesting that dead jackfruit trees could fetch prices up to 1 million baht per tree. Intrigued by this information, she discovered that there was such a tree near her home. Unsure of the validity of the claim, she conducted her research and found that it is indeed rare for a jackfruit tree to die standing. Beliefs suggest that the wood from these trees can be used to craft sacred objects. After posting the video, someone contacted her offering 4,000 baht for the tree. In further discussions, she mentioned consulting individuals who had successfully sold these trees for millions. They informed her that the price depends on various factors. Some trees have been sold for hundreds of thousands to millions of baht because they were transformed into carved Buddha images or traditional Thai musical instruments. The high purchase price is due to the rarity of a jackfruit tree dying naturally. She suggested that anyone interested in selling might approach factories that produce religious sculptures. Initially, her family intended to cut down the tree. Still, when her brother attempted to use an electric saw, the machine mysteriously stopped working, leading her to believe in the tree’s sacredness. She recounted another instance where a second individual contacted her, offering 10 million baht for the tree. They even offered to transfer 5 million baht upfront and provided a link for her to access. However, she was sceptical and did not click the link, unsure if it was a prank. There was no response when she attempted to follow up with the buyer. The first buyer, who had offered 4,000 baht, also disappeared. Sacred trees The video sparked many comments, with many people sharing their views. “It’s true, jackfruit is considered sacred wood used for making amulets and talismans. However, it must be a tree that died naturally and did not bear fruit, which is very rare.” “Yes, it can sell for millions, but the tree needs to be mature with a lot of core wood. It must be crafted into musical instruments or talismans. However, selling the whole tree for 3,000 baht is already a blessing.” The video and subsequent discussions highlight the cultural beliefs and economic value associated with these rare jackfruit trees, showing a fascinating intersection between tradition and modern commerce. by Bob Scott Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Woman Robbed During ATM Money Deposit Picture courtesy: Daily News In a shocking incident at a local ATM in Samrong Nuea, Samut Prakan, a woman was robbed while trying to deposit money. The robbery, taking place in broad daylight, raises serious concerns about security measures at local banks and public financial transaction points. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333035-woman-robbed-during-atm-money-deposit/

In a shocking incident at a local ATM in Samrong Nuea, Samut Prakan, a woman was robbed while trying to deposit money. The robbery, taking place in broad daylight, raises serious concerns about security measures at local banks and public financial transaction points. The victim, a 36-year-old woman, intended to deposit 7,000 baht when a man abruptly approached and snatched the cash from her hand. A scuffle ensued, drawing the attention of a nearby security guard who intervened just in time. The perpetrator, appearing disheveled and behaving erratically, was detained until the police arrived. Upon their arrival, officers discovered that the perpetrator was mentally unstable. The suspect admitted to the act and returned 1,000 baht, with the rest allegedly falling during the altercation. The victim, although distressed, declined to press charges out of pity for the man's condition. This incident underscores the potential vulnerabilities people face while conducting transactions at ATMs. Police have urged the public to be more vigilant and aware of their surroundings when withdrawing or depositing money, especially outside regular banking facilities. Extra caution is advised, and individuals are encouraged to use ATMs within banks or monitored areas during operating hours. Local authorities are now reviewing security protocols around ATMs, particularly in busier areas, to ensure that this type of incident does not happen again. Enhanced surveillance and possibly more security personnel at vulnerable points are being considered as immediate measures. This event serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and vigilance while handling cash in public spaces. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Big Joke's Return to Police Force Unlikely Amidst Internal Conflict Composite image: Naew Na Pol. Gen. Surachet Hakpal, famously known as Big Joke, seems to face dwindling chances of returning to his former glory within the Royal Thai Police, as complex internal dynamics threaten his reinstatement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333034-big-jokes-return-to-police-force-unlikely-amidst-internal-conflict/

Pol. Gen. Surachet Hakpal, famously known as Big Joke, seems to face dwindling chances of returning to his former glory within the Royal Thai Police, as complex internal dynamics threaten his reinstatement. This insight comes directly from Mr. Sittra Biabangkerd, also known as Lawyer Tum, who disclosed issues underpinning Surachet's path back to the deputy commissioner position. Lawyer Tum, Secretary-General of the People's Lawyer Team Foundation, has expressed concern about the challenges Big Joke confronts. According to him, there appears to be a sustained effort from various quarters within the law enforcement hierarchy aimed at blocking Surachet's return. Noting a fractured deal that would have facilitated this comeback, Lawyer Tum suggested a bleak outlook for Big Joke’s immediate future within the police force. This revelation was made while Lawyer Tum was addressing the media at Kanchanaburi Provincial Court, regarding an unrelated legal battle involving a 30 million baht lottery dispute. He remarked that although Surachet is currently isolated, his struggle is far from over. Composite image: Naew Na -- 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Anutin Declares No Conflict with Coalition Partners on Cannabis Policy Picture courtesy: Daily News In a striking development on July 15, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul dismissed speculations of a rift within the coalition government over the cannabis policy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333033-anutin-declares-no-conflict-with-coalition-partners-on-cannabis-policy/

In a striking development on July 15, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul dismissed speculations of a rift within the coalition government over the cannabis policy. At a press gathering at Nai Lert Park Museum in Bangkok, key leaders from both the Pheu Thai Party and the Bhumjaithai Party demonstrated a unified front, addressing several key national issues. The media, seizing the moment, inquired about the alleged discord between the coalition partners regarding cannabis regulation—a topic that has stirred considerable public and political debate in recent years. Mr. Charnvirakul confidently stated that what was perceived as a significant inter-party conflict was in fact a minor disagreement that could be resolved through routine ministerial deliberations and did not warrant a Cabinet-level intervention. “Today, we are here to talk about the security of the government and the welfare of the Thai people, not about minor policy disagreements," Mr. Charnvirakul asserted, shifting focus from internal politics to broader national interests. Picture courtesy: Daily News The conference also touched upon former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's recent remarks about the coalition's future. Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, leader of the Pheu Thai Party, relayed Mr. Shinawatra’s optimistic vision for Thailand, highlighting his desire to see advancements in the educational sector and overall national progress. “He sees from the perspective of someone who has been at the helm,” Ms. Shinawatra noted about her father’s insights into the current political landscape. She concluded with a forward-looking statement about assessing and adapting future political strategies that align with Thailand's developmental goals. This show of solidarity and strategic conflict resolution among coalition members not only quells rumours about imminent governmental discord but also reinforces the coalition's commitment to collectively addressing the pressing issues facing Thailand today. TOP Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-07-16 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe A1.mp4 A2.mp4

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Tuesday 16 July 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1333030-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-16-july-2024/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced yesterday that people will be able to register for the 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme from Aug 1st, The PM said the handout involves massive spending and borrowing, from the budget which was reduced from 500 to 450 billion baht to stimulate the economy. The funds would be distributed by the last quarter of the year. Further details of the scheme will be announced by the Prime minister on 24th July. The Ministry of Education says it is committed to a plan to distribute tablet devices to schools, despite the budget being reduced from 16 to 13 billion baht. The Minister of The "One District, One Quality School" initiative, aims to enhance educational resources—both physical and technological. This plan includes distributing educational tools, such as tablets, to students in 1,800 schools. The United States has offered to lower interest rates for the purchase of F-16 fighter jets by the Royal Thai Air Force in an attempt to persuade the government to choose the American-made jets over Sweden's Gripen fighter aircraft. The airforce announced last week that it was considering the Gripen jets over the F-16s, however negotiations with both companies continue and a final decision is expected to take more time. Locally Military training exercises are currently underway in Hua hin, near kao Tao and Hinlek Fai, local residents have already heard several loud explosions which are likely to continue from time to time until the exercises finish on the 19th August. Around the region. Myanmar The Military Junta minister for Industry Charlie Than visited Russia to discuss construction of a Russian backed steel plant to be located in southern Shan State. The junta says it would produce it’s own steel, cooking oil, cement and pharmaceutical products to offset the cost of importing them. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Thunderstorms 33C degrees celsius Bangkok: cloudy thunderstorms 30 Pattaya: Cloudy, thundershowers 30 Phuket and the south: cloudy with thundershowers 30 Hua Hin: Cloudy 30 Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-07-16 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe