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#SaveLaoKip Drive With Thai Baht And Other Foreign Currencies Not Accepted Stuns Thais by TNR Staff Signs put up at Laotian shops stating Thai baht is not accepted but if necessary buyers will get 30,000 kip per 100 baht. ATTRACTING a lot of attention in Thailand is Laos’ #SaveLaoKip campaign to protect their currency with Laotian shopkeepers no longer accepting both Thai baht and other foreign currencies but if necessary they will give the foreigners a lower rate than that officially set, Naewna newspaper said. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332927-savelaokip-drive-with-thai-baht-and-other-foreign-currencies-not-accepted-stuns-thais/

ATTRACTING a lot of attention in Thailand is Laos’ #SaveLaoKip campaign to protect their currency with Laotian shopkeepers no longer accepting both Thai baht and other foreign currencies but if necessary they will give the foreigners a lower rate than that officially set, Naewna newspaper said. YouTube channel “Time to Share” revealed that many shops in Laos have kicked off this campaign to only trade in their currency kip and not accept Thai baht. An example is one shop announcing that they will not accept any foreign currencies with those coming in with Thai currency only getting 30,000 kip for 100 baht. However the official rate for 100 baht is 61,318 kip. While the official rate for US$100 is 2.2 million kip, these shopkeepers will only give 800,000 kip. by TNR Staff TOP: Signs put up at Laotian shops stating Thai baht is not accepted but if necessary buyers will get 30,000 kip per 100 baht. Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Locals Warn of Foreign Scam Gang Allegedly Preying on Tourists Around Second Road and Pattaya Beach By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A group of foreign nationals has been accused by locals in Pattaya of allegedly operating a scam ring targeting foreign tourists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332926-pattaya-locals-warn-of-foreign-scam-gang-allegedly-preying-on-tourists/

Pattaya — A group of foreign nationals has been accused by locals in Pattaya of allegedly operating a scam ring targeting foreign tourists. According to local media reports, the gang operates primarily at the Made in Thailand Night Plaza located on Pattaya’s Second Road but also can be found near the Avenue Shopping Mall and on Beach Road. The foreign men, described as possibly Pakistani or Middle Eastern and mostly younger men, would typically approach tourists, often posing as friendly local expats, and engage them in conversation before trying to sell their dubious products such as herbal remedies for weight loss, beauty treatments, or hair growth to the tourists. Mr. Abdul, a 50-year-old Thai motorbike taxi driver in the area in question, stated that the gang would then lure the unsuspecting victims to secluded areas or their nearby office to complete the transactions. The gang has over 20-30 members who take turns loitering at both the inner and outer areas of the market, looking for unsuspecting tourists to target, said Abdul. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Intoxicated Australian Passes Out in Public in Patong, Taken to Local Hospital By Goongnang Suksawat Patong – An intoxicated Australian man who passed out in front of a tattoo shop was taken to a hospital by local police. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332925-intoxicated-australian-passes-out-in-public-in-patong-taken-to-local-hospital/

Patong – An intoxicated Australian man who passed out in front of a tattoo shop was taken to a hospital by local police. The Patong Police told the Phuket Express that on Friday (July 12th) at 11:00 A.M. they were notified from an unidentified tattoo shop owner in Soi Saen Sabai about the incident. Police arrived at the scene to find an intoxicated foreign man who was sleeping face down on the floor and appeared to have passed out. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

20 students injured in road accident in Loei province About 20 students were injured, five of them seriously, when the “Songthaew” public transport vehicle in which they were travelling collided with a sedan near an intersection in Mueang district of Thailand’s north-eastern province of Loei. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332924-20-students-injured-in-road-accident-in-loei-province/

About 20 students were injured, five of them seriously, when the “Songthaew” public transport vehicle in which they were travelling collided with a sedan near an intersection in Mueang district of Thailand’s north-eastern province of Loei. The sedan driver, who escaped unhurt, claimed that the “Songthaew” appeared to be travelling at speed as it approached the intersection from the opposite direction. He said that the “Songthaew”, which was carrying many students, skidded and crossed into his carriageway, directly towards his car, forcing him to brake aggressively to avoid a head-on collision. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Senator-elect Keskamol’s educational credentials questioned Dr. Keskamol Pleansamai, a new senator-elect, who received more votes than any of the other 200 senators-elect, is in the spotlight over her declared and highly impressive educational credentials, which many critics are openly questioning whether some are authentic or have been purchased from little known institutions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332923-senator-elect-keskamol’s-educational-credentials-questioned/

Dr. Keskamol Pleansamai, a new senator-elect, who received more votes than any of the other 200 senators-elect, is in the spotlight over her declared and highly impressive educational credentials, which many critics are openly questioning whether some are authentic or have been purchased from little known institutions. Among the educational attainments claimed by the 46-year-old are: Professor in Human Resource Development, California University, Doctor of Philosophy, Associate Professor in Business Administration at California University, PhD in Resources Management and Development from Mae Cho University, an Honorary Doctorate from UIPM University International and an American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine Certificate in Aesthetic Preventive Medicine from the Department of Community Mental Health. Well-known TV personality Sorayuth Suthassanachinda invited her to appear on his program a few days ago, to display her English-speaking skills, which many viewers noted should be a lot better for a person who has studied for and received such educational credentials abroad. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Speedboat rescues 12 tourists from sinking boat near Pattaya by Top Picture courtesy of Dailynews A dramatic rescue unfolded between Koh Larn and Pattaya City after the passenger boat Tara Jade experienced a sewage pump failure, causing it to take on water. The boat was carrying 12 Thai passengers—five men and seven women—when the incident occurred. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332922-speedboat-rescues-12-tourists-from-sinking-boat-near-pattaya/

A dramatic rescue unfolded between Koh Larn and Pattaya City after the passenger boat Tara Jade experienced a sewage pump failure, causing it to take on water. The boat was carrying 12 Thai passengers—five men and seven women—when the incident occurred. Speedboat operators quickly responded to the emergency, with Ed Chankrajai, the driver of the speedboat Yodtong, leading the rescue. As seawater poured into the stern of Tara Jade, Ed instructed everyone to put on life jackets. The tourists were swiftly moved to the speedboat, which transported them back to shore at Bali Hai Pier in South Pattaya. All 12 passengers made it back to shore without injuries. There was a palpable sense of relief and joy as they embraced each other upon reaching safety. Meanwhile, the Tara Jade, a wooden boat captained by Chamroon Thanapreecha, was towed back to shore. The vessel had taken on a significant amount of water and was close to sinking, reported The Pattaya News. It remains unclear whether the Pattaya Marine Department will investigate the incident. In related news, a speedboat carrying tourists on a fishing trip was hit by large waves, causing it to take on water and eventually sink. Five people were left stranded in the sea before being rescued by local fishing boats and the marine police. At 12.20am on July 7, the marine police received a distress call from relatives of the speedboat’s driver, alerting them that the boat was sinking. The marine police, led by Yuranan Meedet, quickly dispatched a rescue team from Surat Thani to the scene. Relatives of the victims reported that the boat was struck by large waves, which caused water to flood into the vessel. Despite attempts to pump the water out, the situation worsened, leading to the boat sinking. by Top Picture courtesy of Dailynews Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Decomposed Body of Woman Found; Ties to Missing Chinese Student? Picture courtesy: CH7 Authorities discovered a decomposed body in a Chachoengsao province garbage dump, sparking an urgent investigation to establish if it is that of Yan Ruimin, a missing Chinese student earlier kidnapped for a hefty ransom. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332921-decomposed-body-of-woman-found-ties-to-missing-student/

Picture courtesy: CH7 Authorities discovered a decomposed body in a Chachoengsao province garbage dump, sparking an urgent investigation to establish if it is that of Yan Ruimin, a missing Chinese student earlier kidnapped for a hefty ransom. Ruimin, known as a TikTok personality, vanished under mysterious circumstances, with her anxious family revealing kidnappers had demanded one million yuan (approximately 5 million baht) In Bangkok's Bang Rak district. The distressing find came after police tracked evidence to a desolate area near Wat Pha Tha In road. Witnesses report that around midday, a suspicious black bag, secured with tiles and obscured by foliage, was unearthed 50 metres from a nearby road. This location correlates with surveillance footage capturing suspect activities around the early hours of July 3, where an individual was observed making multiple trips to the vehicle parked opposite the garbage, potentially depositing the body. The woman's body was notably intact, displaying surgical alterations including silicone implants and jaw modifications, though immediate identification was hindered by the advanced state of decomposition. Authorities now await autopsy results, set to include a DNA comparison with Ruimin's family, with findings expected within a couple of days. This incident underscores ongoing efforts to tighten security around foreign nationals engaging in illicit activities within Thailand, ensuring comprehensive tracking and coordination with international law enforcement agencies to clamp down on cross-border criminal actions. -- 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Trump Rally Shooting Alarms Ex-PM Thaksin Shinawatra File photos Thailand's ex-Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has expressed his concern over the recent assassination attempt at a Donald Trump campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332920-trump-rally-shooting-alarms-ex-pm-thaksin-shinawatra/

Thailand's ex-Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has expressed his concern over the recent assassination attempt at a Donald Trump campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Thaksin, who survived several assassination attempts during his tenure as prime minister, plans to reach out to Trump via a message on X, hoping for his safety and deploring the use of violence in politics. Thaksin's remark came in the wake of troubling news that broke around an armed individual attempting to disrupt a political gathering where Trump was speaking. Security personnel promptly intervened, ensuring the safety of everyone present, including Trump. However, the incident has stirred up significant anxiety, reflecting on global political tensions and the charged atmosphere surrounding high-profile public figures. Reflecting on his experiences, Thakin emphasized the gravity of such threats and the urgent need for steadfast security measures. He pointed out that while Thailand is predominantly Buddhist and generally maintains a non-violent ethos, his own experiences indicate that no individual in a position of power is entirely safe from such extreme actions. The incident has sparked a wider discussion about the adequacy of current security arrangements for public figures worldwide. Thaksin advised that vigilance is paramount, and preventive measures should be adjusted in response to rising political tensions and growing public dissatisfaction, reported Thai Newsroom. As investigations proceed in Pennsylvania, this event may prompt a reevaluation of security protocols at political events, especially with the looming U.S. presidential election. TOP: File photos -- 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 15 July 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1332919-thailand-live-monday-15-july-2024/

Two New Zealand brothers, who were detained in Thailand for nearly four months following an assault on a police officer in Phuket, have returned home. Hamish and Mattson Day had faced multiple charges after a disagreement over a speeding violation on March 16 escalated into violence. NZ brothers return home after 4 months in Thai custody for assault by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of The Phuket News Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332918-nz-brothers-return-home-after-4-months-in-thai-custody-for-assault/

Please continue: NZ brothers return home after 4 months in Thai custody for assaul Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332918-nz-brothers-return-home-after-4-months-in-thai-custody-for-assault/ //CLOSED// /Admin

Picture courtesy of The Phuket News Two New Zealand brothers, who were detained in Thailand for nearly four months following an assault on a police officer in Phuket, have returned home. Hamish and Mattson Day had faced multiple charges after a disagreement over a speeding violation on March 16 escalated into violence. A passerby captured footage of the incident, showing 38 year old Mattson Day attacking the police officer while 36 year old Hamish held the officer’s gun. The video quickly went viral, drawing widespread attention on social media. The New Zealand Herald reported the brothers’ return, though the exact date remains undisclosed. In a written statement, the Day family expressed their gratitude for the support received from friends, family, and the New Zealand Government. They also requested privacy as they adjust to life back home. “They would be grateful for a bit of space and privacy for them and their family during the coming weeks,” the family stated. “They want to express their sincere gratitude for the overwhelming support they’ve received from their family, friends, and the New Zealand Government. As they begin readjusting and focus on their well-being, they ask for your understanding and respect.” The family declined to comment further on the matter. Police assault Hamish and Mattson were on holiday in Phuket when the altercation occurred. They were charged with assaulting a police officer, robbery, obstruction of police duty, driving without a licence, and bribery. Following their arrest, they appeared in Phuket provincial court and were remanded in custody. Although specific details about the final outcome of their cases were not disclosed, it was confirmed that their visas were revoked, and they have been blacklisted from re-entering Thailand. Phuket police chief Sinlert Sukhum explained that the incident began when the brothers refused to stop after an officer observed them speeding on rented motorcycles. Police Senior Sergeant Major Maj Somsak Noo-iad pursued them and called for backup. When they eventually stopped in front of a restaurant on Chaofa Road in Mueang district, the officer informed them of their traffic violation and requested their licences. The brothers reportedly offered a bribe, which the officer refused, instructing them to pay the fine at the police station. As the officer took their pictures with his mobile phone, the situation escalated. Angered by the officer’s actions, one of the brothers attacked him, wrestled him to the ground, and seized his firearm, reported The Phuket News. During the struggle, the gun discharged once, though no one was injured. Backup officers arrived shortly after, preventing the situation from worsening. Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai woman wins 9 million baht from UK bet by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Sanook A 40 year old Thai woman living in the UK transformed her life by winning a substantial £200,000 (approximately 9 million baht) from a £1 bet on the Nifty Fifty game through Betfred. This windfall has allowed her to leave her demanding 14-hour workdays behind and plan a return to Thailand to live her dream life. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332853-thai-woman-wins-9-million-baht-from-uk-bet/

A 40 year old Thai woman living in the UK transformed her life by winning a substantial £200,000 (approximately 9 million baht) from a £1 bet on the Nifty Fifty game through Betfred. This windfall has allowed her to leave her demanding 14-hour workdays behind and plan a return to Thailand to live her dream life. Araya Curry, who previously worked as a cleaner in a healthcare facility during the day and as a waitress in the evening, is now preparing to say goodbye to her minimum wage jobs in the UK. The substantial prize, equivalent to over 9.3 million baht, came from a modest investment of just 47 baht. This newfound wealth will enable her and her family to enjoy a comfortable life and has accelerated their plans to purchase land and build a home in Thailand. Construction on their six-bedroom house has already begun, a project which had been part of a 10-year plan for Araya and her husband, 45 year old Andy. “I have been working 14 hours a day for a long time, so this wonderful win has completely changed my life and Andy’s. It’s not just for me but for our children as well. We had a 10-year plan to buy land in Thailand and live there, and now the construction of our six-bedroom house has started.” Andy, a former firefighter who met Araya 20 years ago while on vacation, expressed his disbelief at their good fortune. “I still can’t believe you can win £200,000 from just a £1 bet. We want to sincerely thank Fred Done, the CEO of Betfred. Our new dream home in Thailand, valued at £43,000, is currently under construction.” Fred Done, the CEO of Betfred, has been invited to visit the Curry family’s dream home in Thailand once it is completed as a gesture of gratitude, reported Sanook. “In our 57-year history, there has never been a more deserving winner than Araya. She and her husband work incredibly hard and deserve all the good fortune in the world.” by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Sanook Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Party Accused of Bribing Senators with Cash and Cars Premsak Piayura. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Today, controversy has erupted around sensational allegations presented by new senator, Premsak Piayura. He claims that an unnamed political party is attempting to covertly recruit senators by offering them regular payments, luxury vehicles, and additional staffing. This purported bribery aims to secure unwavering support for upcoming legislative efforts by the implicated party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332851-party-accused-of-bribing-senators-with-cash-and-cars/

Today, controversy has erupted around sensational allegations presented by new senator, Premsak Piayura. He claims that an unnamed political party is attempting to covertly recruit senators by offering them regular payments, luxury vehicles, and additional staffing. This purported bribery aims to secure unwavering support for upcoming legislative efforts by the implicated party. Premsak Piayura, who recently transitioned from being a Member of Parliament from Khon Kaen to a senator, refrained from specifying which party was involved. However, observers note that he hinted towards the involvement of certain influential political figures by highlighting the suspicious alignment of some senators with specific partisan agendas. The senator’s accusations spotlight the broader, troubling implications of such activities undermining the roles of senators. Constitutionally, senators are entrusted to act independently, serving as crucial figures in selecting members of significant independent agencies. This includes the Constitutional Court, the National Anti-Corruption Commission, and the Election Commission. Any compromise in their impartiality could skew critical oversight and governance functions they are meant to uphold. In the wake of these allegations, Premsak Piayura has also announced the formation of a group named "white senators." This group, currently consisting of twelve members, pledges to maintain their independence and neutrality away from any party lines. They are symbolized by white wristbands, representing their commitment to transparency and impartial governance. This unfolding story strikes at the core of political integrity and the supposed independence of the Senate. It raises urgent questions about the effectiveness of current safeguards against political corruption and whether additional measures might be needed to preserve the sanctity of these democratic institutions. TOP: Premsak Piayura. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-07-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fake Journalist Causes Hospital Havoc Amid Emergency Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a shocking revelation, a widely followed Facebook page, AggressiveDoctor, recently discovered an individual impersonating a journalist from a reputable news outlet, causing chaos at a hospital during an emergency situation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1332849-fake-journalist-causes-hospital-havoc-amid-emergency/