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Thai Parties Dismiss Election Commission's Investigation into Thaksin Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Petition over ex-premier's influence causing 'social unrest' Major Thai political parties have downplayed the Election Commission’s (EC) investigation into former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's alleged unlawful influence over the government. The petitions claim Thaksin exerted control over the ruling Pheu Thai Party and five other former coalition parties. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341219-thai-parties-dismiss-election-commissions-investigation-into-thaksin/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Petition over ex-premier's influence causing 'social unrest' Major Thai political parties have downplayed the Election Commission’s (EC) investigation into former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's alleged unlawful influence over the government. The petitions claim Thaksin exerted control over the ruling Pheu Thai Party and five other former coalition parties. The allegations stem from a meeting of the six party leaders at Thaksin's Ban Chan Song La residence in Bangkok on the day Srettha Thavisin was dismissed as Prime Minister. The EC has a 30-day deadline for the probe. Petitions from an anonymous individual, Thai Pakdee Party chairman Warong Dechgitvigrom, Ruangkrai Leekitwattana from the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), and Noppharut Worachitwutthikun from the Phirap Khao 2006 group, urge the EC to ask the court to dissolve all six parties for allegedly breaching Section 28 of the political parties’ law. Phumtham Wechayachai, Thailand's deputy prime minister and Pheu Thai Party leader, stated that the meeting was merely a gathering for a meal. Thaksin’s home is also the residence of his daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the current Prime Minister. Discussions at the meeting concerned potential replacements for Mr Srettha Thavisin, but the next day, Pheu Thai opted for Ms Paetongtarn, who secured the parliamentary vote. Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin Charnvirakul, also Deputy Prime Minister, expressed no concern over the probe. PM’s Office Minister Chousak Sirinil noted the government's readiness to counter the petitions, arguing the absence of Thaksin’s dominance, reported Bangkok Post. Democrat Party's Thepthai Senpong suggested the EC's decision to investigate may have been influenced by photos of party leaders at Thaksin's residence. Proving unlawful influence requires substantial evidence, which could prolong the legal process. -- 2024-10-21

Bangkok Governor Supports Congestion Charge to Curb Traffic Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has thrown his support behind the Transport Ministry's proposal to introduce a congestion charge for vehicles entering the city's most densely populated areas. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341218-bangkok-governor-supports-congestion-charge-to-curb-traffic/

Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has thrown his support behind the Transport Ministry's proposal to introduce a congestion charge for vehicles entering the city's most densely populated areas. This charge is intended to ease traffic and encourage a shift towards public transportation by helping fund a new policy offering a flat 20-baht fare on all electric train lines. The system is inspired by similar successful models in cities such as London and Singapore, where congestion charges have proven effective in reducing traffic while promoting sustainable transport alternatives. Mr. Chadchart stressed that for the plan to be truly effective, Bangkok’s public transport system must first undergo significant improvements. He pointed out that while the electric train network is vital, it must be part of a broader strategy. This includes expanding bus routes, enhancing pedestrian pathways, and improving overall accessibility to ensure the city's residents have viable, affordable, and safe travel options. His goal is to make public transport not just an alternative but the preferred option for daily commuters. The congestion charge, as outlined, would apply to vehicles entering Bangkok's central business district (CBD). Unlike other models that focus on specific streets or zones, this proposal aims for a more extensive coverage area to prevent drivers from avoiding the charge by taking alternative routes. Mr. Chadchart underscored the importance of a well-thought-out approach, one that carefully considers its impact on different social groups. He expressed concerns about low-income residents and families who rely on private vehicles, particularly parents who drive their children to school regularly. Measures would need to be put in place to avoid disproportionately affecting these groups. The governor reiterated that the charge should not be implemented until the city has an adequate public transport infrastructure. He also believes that technology will play a key role in managing traffic congestion and ensuring the policy is effective. Advanced traffic management systems, such as real-time monitoring and dynamic pricing, could be used to maximise the benefits of the congestion charge while minimising its inconvenience. The revenues generated from the congestion charge are expected to help cover the costs of the 20-baht flat fare policy, an initiative that seeks to make public transport more affordable for everyone. This fare structure, once implemented, is expected to greatly increase the use of electric trains, which could further alleviate the city’s notorious traffic problems. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia However, not everyone is convinced the plan will work without challenges. Former Deputy Bangkok Governor Samart Ratchapolsitte noted that the concept of a congestion charge has been floated for many years but has never been enacted. He attributed this to concerns about its potential negative effects on commuters, especially those without access to reliable public transportation options. Mr. Samart emphasised that meticulous planning will be essential to overcome these barriers. He pointed to issues such as parking availability, fee exemptions for certain groups, and ensuring that the public transport network can handle an influx of new users. Meanwhile, Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit added further details on the broader vision for public transport in Bangkok. He suggested that the congestion charge could be part of a larger overhaul that includes renegotiating or even buying back concessions from private companies operating the electric train lines. By taking back control of these concessions, the government could potentially lower fares and ensure more affordable and equitable access to public transport for Bangkok’s residents. Mr. Suriya also emphasised the importance of learning from other countries that have implemented similar systems. The congestion charge in London, for example, has successfully reduced car usage in the city centre while raising significant revenue for public transportation projects. Similarly, Singapore's Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) system has been an effective tool in managing traffic in its busiest areas. Bangkok's plan would draw from these international examples, tailoring the system to suit the city's unique challenges and needs. As Bangkok continues to grow, both in terms of population and vehicle numbers, the urgency to address traffic congestion becomes more pressing. This initiative represents a significant step towards making Bangkok a more liveable, sustainable city, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-21

French Man Arrested for Reckless Riding on Doi Suthep A French man riding a motorcycle recklessly on the road up to Doi Suthep in Suthep Subdistrict, Chiang Mai, was charged by police, after the event was recorded and posted on social media. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341171-french-man-arrested-for-reckless-riding-on-doi-suthep/

Female Doing Driving Practice Crashes Into Home, Causing Major Damage A bank employee in Mae Hong Son, practicing her driving skills, accidentally stepped on the accelerator and crashed her car through the walls of a three-story house. The incident caused significant damage to both the house and her vehicle. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341180-female-doing-driving-practice-crashes-into-home-causing-major-damage/

Govt Plans to Boost Education and High-Tech Workforce by Krajangwit Johjit BANGKOK (NNT) - Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has outlined a plan to address Thailand’s education challenges, focusing on producing skilled professionals to drive growth in high-tech industries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341211-govt-plans-to-boost-education-and-high-tech-workforce/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 21 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1341209-thailand-live-monday-21-october-2024/

BANGKOK (NNT) - Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has outlined a plan to address Thailand’s education challenges, focusing on producing skilled professionals to drive growth in high-tech industries. During a recent meeting of the National Council for Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation Policy, the prime minister discussed the government's focus on sectors such as electric vehicles, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and advanced medical technology, alongside clean energy and environmental sustainability efforts. A key part of the plan is introducing a National Credit Bank system, allowing individuals to accumulate educational credits from academic achievements and work experience. These credits can be applied toward degrees, offering greater flexibility and expanding access to education. The government is also prioritizing upskilling and reskilling initiatives to meet evolving industry needs. To support the semiconductor industry, the council approved a plan to develop a workforce of at least 80,000 specialized professionals by 2030. This includes establishing six training centers and designing industry-specific curricula to attract new investments. The effort seeks to position Thailand as a global hub for semiconductors and advanced electronics. The council also approved a 160.13 billion baht budget for the 2026 fiscal year, with a significant portion allocated to higher education. The funds will be used to produce graduates in critical sectors such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and electric vehicles while supporting research and innovation to address national challenges and promote sustainable development. by Krajangwit Johjit Source: NNT -- 2024-10-21

In a startling accident, two female students were injured when a loose tyre from a 10-wheel ice truck struck the motorcycle they were riding on, causing them to fall and sustain injuries. The incident was captured on CCTV. Two Schoolgirls Injured After Truck Tyre Breaks Loose and Hits Motorcycle Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341186-two-schoolgirls-injured-after-truck-tyre-breaks-loose-and-hits-motorcycle/

Dancers at Police Station Spark Outrage Among Netizens Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV A video of dancers in revealing outfits swaying at the Plai Bang police station in Nonthaburi has become a hot topic online. Released yesterday, the clip has sparked debate about the appropriateness of such displays in official public spaces. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341123-dancers-at-police-station-spark-outrage-among-netizens/

Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV A video of dancers in revealing outfits swaying at the Plai Bang police station in Nonthaburi has become a hot topic online. Released yesterday, the clip has sparked debate about the appropriateness of such displays in official public spaces. The footage, which was shared on a popular Facebook page, shows three dancers moving rhythmically in the police station. As the clip made its rounds across social media, many netizens expressed their disapproval, questioning the setting for such an activity. In response to the uproar, reporters visited the Plai Bang police station to seek clarification. Pol. Col. Piyawat Patcharanittham, the station’s superintendent, addressed the situation, explaining that the dancers had been at a nearby party the previous evening. They stopped at the station to use its restroom facilities and took the opportunity to film a dance video, which they later shared on their personal Facebook accounts. Dr. Sittisak Chiawpongpipat, head of the station's police administration inspection team, elaborated that there was an uncommon party near the station that night. Although the police had agreed to let the organisers use an adjacent space for the party, they were unaware of the recording happening within the station itself. Picture courtesy: AMARY TV Upon discovery, the officers contacted the party organisers and reprimanded them over the dancers’ attire and the decision to film inside a police establishment. While the station wants to maintain openness for public use of their facilities, they stressed the need for appropriate conduct moving forward. Efforts will be made to ensure similar incidents do not occur again, preserving the integrity and expected decorum of the police station, reported Amarin TV, Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-10-19

Thailand’s drought and pests slash coconut yields, prices soar by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation The Agriculture Ministry revealed that the country’s mature coconut yield is expected to plummet to just 0.86 million tonnes this year, a sharp drop from last year’s 0.94 million tonnes. Blame it on a double whammy of prolonged drought and pesky infestations ravaging the country’s coconut trees. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341120-thailand’s-drought-and-pests-slash-coconut-yields-prices-soar/

The Agriculture Ministry revealed that the country’s mature coconut yield is expected to plummet to just 0.86 million tonnes this year, a sharp drop from last year’s 0.94 million tonnes. Blame it on a double whammy of prolonged drought and pesky infestations ravaging the country’s coconut trees. The knock-on effect is already being felt in the markets. Thailand's Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan has tasked the Department of Internal Trade (DIT) with keeping a close eye on the prices of mature coconuts and coconut milk to protect consumers from price gouging. “The DIT and provincial commerce offices will continue to monitor the coconut situation and key consumer goods prices,” said Witthayakorn Maneenet, a ministry spokesperson. Inspections are ramping up, with provincial officers and patrol teams checking retail stores for any suspicious price hikes. Despite being available year-round, coconut prices typically spike during the low season (August to March), rising from 5 to 9 baht per coconut to a hefty 18 to 28 baht. With the current shortfall, prices have already surged to an average of 19.08 baht. As demand for mature coconuts sits at 1.19 million tonnes, 35% goes to wholesale and fresh markets, while a whopping 65% heads to coconut milk factories. To fill the gap, factories have started importing coconuts to cope with the shortfall. The Subcommittee on Coconut Production Management, with representatives from the government, farmers, and the private sector, is now on high alert, managing the delicate balance between supply and demand. Any business caught inflating prices will face severe penalties—up to seven years behind bars and hefty fines of 140,000 baht, reported The Nation. In related news, Ekaphap Phonsue, spokesperson for the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, revealed that Saikrai Pimbueng, a committee member and secretary of the Farmers’ Rehabilitation and Development Fund (FRDF), recently met with Narumon Pinyosinwat, the Minister of Agriculture. The meeting aimed to discuss policies and actions concerning Thai farmers’ issues. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-19

Phuket beach scare: Grenade-like object turns out to be lighter by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Tension gripped a Phuket beach when locals reported spotting a grenade-like object in the backseat of a taxi, only to discover it was a lighter resembling an explosive device. Full story https://aseannow.com/topic/1341119-phuket-beach-scare-grenade-like-object-turns-out-to-be-lighter/

Tension gripped a Phuket beach when locals reported spotting a grenade-like object in the backseat of a taxi, only to discover it was a lighter resembling an explosive device. Patong Police Station received a call at 1.30pm yesterday, October 18, from a concerned citizen about a suspicious object inside a taxi near Kalim Beach on Phra Barami Road, Patong subdistrict, Kathu district, Phuket. Responding swiftly, Chalermchai Hoernsawat, the Superintendent of Patong Police Station, and his team rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, officers located a black Toyota Fortuner taxi with green plates, registration number ณข 3604 Phuket, parked by the beach. Observing through the vehicle’s window, they identified an object that appeared to be a grenade on the left side of the backseat. Chalermchai used a flashlight to get a closer look and, once confident it wasn’t an explosive, decided to inspect it manually. To everyone’s relief, the object turned out to be a lighter designed to look like a grenade, easing the tension among those present. “I used a flashlight to ensure it wasn’t an actual grenade before deciding to handle it. It was a great relief to find it was just a lighter.” The incident sparked concern among locals and tourists in the vicinity, but the quick response and thorough inspection by the police alleviated fears. The discovery highlighted the importance of vigilance and the potential for misunderstandings with objects resembling dangerous items. Following the incident, Chalermchai issued a warning to the taxi driver, advising against leaving items that could be mistaken for explosives in the vehicle. The driver was reminded of the potential alarm such objects could cause, leading to unnecessary police involvement, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-19

Chiang Rai flood recovery 96% complete, set to finish by Monday by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Post-flood recovery efforts in Chiang Rai’s Mae Sai district are nearing completion, according to the government’s operation centre for flood, storm, and landslide victims. Officials stated yesterday, October 18, that all affected communities should see the recovery work finalised by Monday as scheduled. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341118-chiang-rai-flood-recovery-96-complete-set-to-finish-by-monday/

Post-flood recovery efforts in Chiang Rai’s Mae Sai district are nearing completion, according to the government’s operation centre for flood, storm, and landslide victims. Officials stated yesterday, October 18, that all affected communities should see the recovery work finalised by Monday as scheduled. Jirayu Huangsab, a spokesperson for the centre, provided an update from the forward command in Chiang Rai, indicating that the recovery operations are approximately 96% complete. Residents preparing to return home will benefit from the Ministry of Labour’s initiative to inspect and, if necessary, rewire their electrical systems free of charge. “The ministry is currently focusing on Mae Sai and will extend its assistance to other districts once the Mae Sai mission is completed.” In a related effort to bolster flood prevention, Chiang Rai’s sub-committee on navigation and water management decided to form a team to survey communities along the Sai and Ruak rivers. This team will work to improve residents’ understanding of the necessity for a new 5-kilometre flood wall, which will extend from the second Thai-Myanmar friendship bridge to Pha Chom cave. “ The sub-committee’s resolution will be reported to the Thailand-Myanmar joint committee on the fixed boundary for the Sai and Ruak rivers during their meeting in December.” Meanwhile, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has been actively assisting the recovery efforts. Since September 19, BMA has deployed 85 workers and heavy equipment to support 13 flood-affected areas in Chiang Rai. Their teams have successfully removed 4,100 cubic metres of mud, with the remaining tasks focused on clearing sediment and debris from several roads in Mueang district, reported Bangkok Post. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-19

Thai fugitive’s train escape ends with Kathu condo arrest by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News A daring train escape in Nakhon Si Thammarat ended in the capture of a fugitive in Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341116-thai-fugitive’s-train-escape-ends-with-kathu-condo-arrest/

A daring train escape in Nakhon Si Thammarat ended in the capture of a fugitive in Phuket. On the run after fleeing police custody, the fugitive, identified as Ekkachai, was finally nabbed at a swanky condo on Tuesday, October 15, bringing a thrilling two-week manhunt to a close. Ekkachai, originally detained on five arrest warrants for property crimes in Hat Yai, pulled off a jaw-dropping escape on October 3. He was being transported by train under the watchful eye of Region 9 Police when he asked to use the toilet. Seizing the opportunity, he jumped from the moving train in Ron Phibun district, Nakhon Si Thammarat, and vanished into thin air. The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), through its Crime Suppression Division (CSD), revealed in a report yesterday, October 17 that Ekkachai contacted his girlfriend after his escape, tricking her into picking him up. But in a shocking twist, he stole her car and fled to Baan Na San district, leaving her to file a complaint. This led to yet another arrest warrant being issued. Police finally tracked him down to the dcondo Creek building in Phuket’s Kathu area, where CSD Division 5 officers swooped in and made the arrest. Ekkachai has since been returned to Ron Phibun Police Station, where he faces further legal proceedings, reported Phuket News. In related news, police apprehended a fugitive on the island of Koh Samui who had been evading capture for 19 years. The 47 year old suspect was only one year away from the statute of limitations expiring for his crimes. Police, under the direction of Lieutenant General Jiraphop Phuridech, Commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), and led by Major General Montri Theskhan, Colonel Phongpanot Chukaew, and Lieutenant Colonel Thanakorn Uchanarasamee, executed the arrest. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-19

Rubbed the wrong way: New hire turns thief at Phuket massage shop by of Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ An owner of a massage shop in the Patong area of Phuket offered a job to an unemployed woman, who later turned thief and stole money and valuables from the shop on her second day of work. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341115-rubbed-the-wrong-way-new-hire-turns-thief-at-phuket-massage-shop/

An owner of a massage shop in the Patong area of Phuket offered a job to an unemployed woman, who later turned thief and stole money and valuables from the shop on her second day of work. The owner took to social media to issue a warning to other shops and expose the thieving behaviour of her former employee. She shared security camera footage of the theft with the Phuket Times, which clearly showed the identity of the female thief. In the video, the suspect is seen carrying a bag containing the stolen items and cash as she left the massage shop at night. She opened the front door of the shop very slowly and made her escape. The shop owner revealed to the media that the female thief arrived at her shop seeking employment. She claimed to be from the southern province of Songkhla and said she had no personal documents with her but was desperate for a job. The thief shared her difficult life story with the owner, explaining that she had the heavy burden of supporting her entire family in Songkhla. She added that she had experience in massage therapy and possessed a certificate, though she did not bring it with her on the day. Feeling sorry for her, the owner eventually hired the woman as a masseuse. The woman promised to ask her family to send her ID card, house registration, and massage certificate later, after she began working. Everything went well on her first day but the new employee quickly revealed her true colours on the second day. She stole cash and valuables from the shop at night and fled. The value of the stolen items was not disclosed. A Thai woman, commenting on the post, identified herself as the daughter of the shop owner. She mentioned that she and her mother only knew the woman as someone who previously sold flowers outside Illuzion Bar in the Bangla area of Phuket. She also stated that this thief committed similar crimes in other shops before. by of Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-19

Ex-police chief accuses lawyer and dead cop of extortion by Petch Petpailin Photo via Thua Thai News A former chief of police in the southern province of Songkhla filed a lawsuit against a lawyer and a dead cop for extorting more than 10 million baht from him and another police officer in August 2018 and April 2019. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341113-ex-police-chief-accuses-lawyer-and-dead-cop-of-extortion/

A former chief of police in the southern province of Songkhla filed a lawsuit against a lawyer and a dead cop for extorting more than 10 million baht from him and another police officer in August 2018 and April 2019. The former superintendent of a local police station in Songkhla, Police Colonel Surapong Kittithirangkul, complained to the lawyer, identified as Ch., and the late Police Captain W. at Thung Tam Sao Police Station in the Hat Yai district yesterday, October 17. Surapong divided the extortion into two cases. The first case involved the former head of the patrol officers at Hat Yai Police Station in August 2018, and the second case involved himself in April 2019. In the first case, Surapong explained that the head of the patrol officers arrested a Thai man after drugs were found in his system. However, the prosecutor dismissed the case, allowing the suspect to avoid legal punishment. Following this, lawyer Ch. and Police Captain W. accused the patrol police head of issuing a false charge against the man. This matter gained significant attention from the media and local community, leading to a thorough investigation into the patrol officer. The lawyer and the deceased police officer then demanded 5 million baht from the patrol police head in exchange for halting the legal proceedings and ending the media coverage. However, the patrol police head refused to pay and chose to proceed with the legal process, which ultimately led to the court dismissing the case. In the second case, which Surapong experienced personally, he explained that he was sued for alleged adultery. The lawyer and the deceased police officer then leaked the matter to the media and public, even though he maintained his innocence and the case was still under investigation. The lawyer and Police Captain W. demanded between 10 and 20 million baht from Surapong to put an end to the situation. He had not paid the amount by the time the court dismissed the case, clearing him of any wrongdoing. Although these incidents occurred a few years ago, and one of the officers has since passed away, Surapong still wishes for both to be charged for conspiring to extort another person. Tung Tham Sao Police Station has accepted the complaint and has promised to handle the case justly for all parties involved. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Thua Thai News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-19

Australian Tourist Crashes Pickup Truck into Pattaya Drugstore By Adam Judd Pattaya City - At 4:30 a.m. on October 19th, 2024, Pol. Lt. Apinan Srithongrungthip, Deputy Inspector (Investigation) of the Banglamung Police Station, was alerted to a pickup truck accident that caused significant damage in Nongprue, near Pattaya. The incident occurred in front of the Sukun Piem drugstore on Soi Khao Talo. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341111-australian-tourist-crashes-pickup-truck-into-pattaya-drugstore/