webfact

Thailand Targets 8 Million Chinese Tourists with Airline Expansion Picture courtesy: Wikipedia In a bold attempt to rejuvenate its tourism sector, Thailand has set a target to attract 8 million Chinese tourists this year, contingent upon airlines increasing their flight capacities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331749-thailand-targets-8-million-chinese-tourists-with-airline-expansion/

In a bold attempt to rejuvenate its tourism sector, Thailand has set a target to attract 8 million Chinese tourists this year, contingent upon airlines increasing their flight capacities. The Tourism Authority of Prachar (TAT) has announced that achieving this goal hinges on restoring flight seat capacity to no less than 80% of the numbers seen before the pandemic. Already, Thailand has welcomed 3.5 million Chinese visitors by the midpoint of the year, leading the pack ahead of other nationalities among the 17.5 million total foreign tourists. Easily surpassing arrivals from Malaysia and India, which stood at 2.4 million and 1 million respectively, the influx from China has been a significant boost. Chattan Kunjara Na Ayudhya, TAT’s deputy governor for international marketing in Asia and the South Pacific, shared insights on the current status. He reported that for the ongoing summer schedule, which extends through October, airlines have scheduled 34,452 flights connecting 40 Chinese cities to Thailand, offering around 6.44 million seats—this represents about 80% of the capacity compared to pre-COVID-19 levels. However, fulfilling the lofty tourism goals will require more than just maintaining the current numbers. "To reach the 8 million mark, we need more seats on flights from China. This is challenging as both Thai and Chinese carriers are coping with a shortage of aircraft, with some prioritizing domestic routes," explained Chattan. The strategy includes encouraging Chinese airlines to establish routes to lesser-known Thai cities equipped with international airports, such as Chiang Rai, Chon Buri's U-tapao airport, and Surat Thani. This would not only ease the load on Bangkok's and Phuket's airports but potentially spread the economic benefits of tourism wider across the country. The upcoming Chinese Golden Week in October provides a timely opportunity, with TAT projecting a sharp rise in visits. By pushing for more direct flights and negotiating reduced landing fees with the Airports of Thailand (AOT), TAT aims to sustain this trend into the high season and hit their ambitious year-end target. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tragic Teen Brawl in Bangna Results in Two Fatalities Picture courtesy: Khaosod A devastating altercation involving a group of teenagers in Bangna, a district on the outskirts of Bangkok, tragically ended with two deaths and multiple injuries late last night. This violent clash underscores a worrying trend of youth violence in the area, shaking the local community to its core. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331748-tragic-teen-brawl-in-bangna-results-in-two-fatalities/

A devastating altercation involving a group of teenagers in Bangna, a district on the outskirts of Bangkok, tragically ended with two deaths and multiple injuries late last night. This violent clash underscores a worrying trend of youth violence in the area, shaking the local community to its core. The incident unfolded in Udomsuk 26 alley when an argument between two groups of teens escalated into a deadly confrontation. Authorities were alerted to the scene shortly after midnight, arriving to find a harrowing sight. Among the victims were Kittisak, 16, found deceased with severe head trauma, believed to have been caused by a heavy, blood-stained rock found nearby. Not far from this scene, Nopnai, 15, was also discovered dead, having sustained multiple stab wounds. A third victim, 16-year-old Payu, suffered a stab wound but survived and was rushed to Bangplee Hospital, where he currently remains in stable condition. Preliminary police reports suggest that the deadly encounter was sparked by a heated exchange involving accusations of inappropriate interactions with a girlfriend. This quickly escalated as both factions were allegedly armed and ready for a fight, leading to the fatal outcomes. In response to the tragedy, local law enforcement swiftly apprehended seven teenagers involved in the incident, including the injured Payu. They face serious charges, with investigations ongoing to unravel the full scope of this tragic event. The suspects were reportedly former schoolmates known to have ongoing disputes, often fueled by social media provocations, depicting a deep-seated rivalry that unfortunately turned violent. This incident highlights significant issues within the community concerning youth engagement and violence, prompting calls for increased policing and community-based interventions to prevent such tragedies in the future. Authorities are now working closely with families and community leaders to address these challenges and restore peace to the shaken neighborhood. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Minibus Carrying Tourists Overturns in Surat Thani, Injuring 10 Foreigners By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Matichon Surat Thani — minibus carrying many foreign tourists overturned on Saturday morning, injuring 10 foreigners. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331747-minibus-carrying-tourists-overturns-in-surat-thani-injuring-10-foreigners/

Surat Thani — minibus carrying many foreign tourists overturned on Saturday morning, injuring 10 foreigners. The accident occurred at around 6:30 AM on July 6th, 2024 on the Phunphin-Mueang Road in the Tha Lon sub-district, Phunphin district, Surat Thani province. Police and rescue workers arrived at the scene to find the minibus overturned on the side of the road. Ten foreign passengers had sustained minor injuries and were taken to Phunphin Hospital for treatment. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: Matichon Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourists rescued after speedboat sinks off Surat Thani coast by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod 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. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331746-tourists-rescued-after-speedboat-sinks-off-surat-thani-coast/

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 today, 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. Onboard the speedboat were five tourists, four men and one woman, who were headed out for a fishing trip. As the boat sank, they were left floating in the sea, awaiting rescue, reported KhaoSod. Fortunately, nearby fishing boats came to their aid, providing initial assistance before the marine police arrived. The marine police then transported all five individuals safely back to Laem Thuat Pier in Don Sak district. In related news, the Sri Thong Pae 7 fishing trawler was engulfed in flames while refuelling in the Andaman Sea, leading to a rescue operation that saved the lives of nine crew members. The incident occurred on April 28, 15 nautical miles southwest of Koh Surin islands, off Phang Nga. Upon receiving the distress signal at approximately 3.30am, the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Centre Region 3 (Thai-MECC Region 3) initiated a rescue operation. The crew on board the ill-fated trawler consisted of two Thais and seven Myanmar nationals. Another fishing trawler, Charn Udom Sombat 1, spotted the blazing vessel about half an hour later. The crews swiftly evacuated the nine crew members from the burning ship and took them ashore. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Deputy PM Anutin Charnvirakul Questions Legal Implications of Cannabis Reclassification, Calls for Clarification By Kittisak Phalaharn On July 6th, 2024, Thai Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul responded to the Narcotics Control Board’s proposal to reclassify cannabis and hemp as narcotics. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331745-deputy-pm-anutin-charnvirakul-questions-legal-implications-of-cannabis-reclassification/

On July 6th, 2024, Thai Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul responded to the Narcotics Control Board’s proposal to reclassify cannabis and hemp as narcotics. Anutin reaffirmed Bhumjaithai Party’s stance that cannabis should be used for medical and economic purposes, not for recreation. Anutin questioned the rationale behind this reclassification, as it reverts to a previous status set by the same board during his tenure as Minister of Public Health. Anutin expressed concerns about the legal implications for community-level cannabis growers and questioned how the Thai government would address the thousands released for cannabis-related offenses in 2022. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian DJ Arrested After Hit-and-Run Accident in Surat Thani By Goongnang Suksawat In Surat Thani, a wanted Russian DJ found himself in police custody after a hit-and-run incident on Pha Ngan Island. The accident resulted in serious injuries to a motorbike rider. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331744-russian-dj-arrested-after-hit-and-run-accident-in-surat-thani/

In Surat Thani, a wanted Russian DJ found himself in police custody after a hit-and-run incident on Pha Ngan Island. The accident resulted in serious injuries to a motorbike rider. According to the Koh Pha Ngan Tourist Police, the incident occurred on July 30th of last year. Mr. Vigen, driving a white SUV, collided with a motorbike on Pha Ngan Island. The motorbike rider sustained severe injuries, but the SUV driver fled the scene. Law enforcement officers tracked down the suspect using nearby CCTV footage. On Friday, July 5th, authorities arrested Mr. Vigen, a 36-year-old Russian national, at a residence in the Baan Tai sub-district of Koh Pha Ngan district. He faces charges of reckless driving resulting in serious injuries and damage to other property. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

British Tourist Hurt in Pattaya Hit-and-Run Accident Picture courtesy: The Pattaya News In a concerning incident early this morning, a 76-year-old British tourist was injured in a hit-and-run accident in Pattaya, Thailand. The tourist, identified as Graham Hughes, was struck by a motorcycle while crossing the street in the popular coastal city. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331743-british-tourist-hurt-in-pattaya-hit-and-run-accident/

In a concerning incident early this morning, a 76-year-old British tourist was injured in a hit-and-run accident in Pattaya, Thailand. The tourist, identified as Graham Hughes, was struck by a motorcycle while crossing the street in the popular coastal city. The incident occurred shortly after midnight in a bustling area of Pattaya. Authorities and emergency responders were called to the scene, where they found Mr. Hughes with notable injuries. He suffered a dislocated shoulder and lacerations to his feet, conditions that prompted immediate medical attention. Eyewitnesses report that Mr. Hughes, who had arrived in Thailand two days prior and was returning from a nearby bar, was crossing the street when a motorcycle hit him at high speed. The impact was severe enough to knock him to the ground. Shockingly, rather than stop to assist, the motorcyclist fled the scene, leaving Mr. Hughes injured on the road. Local police are currently investigating the incident with the aid of CCTV footage from the area in hopes of identifying and apprehending the responsible individual. The accident raises questions about road safety for tourists in popular destinations like Pattaya, where nightlife often brings increased pedestrian and vehicle traffic. Authorities urge anyone with information about the incident to come forward as they attempt to bring justice to the hit-and-run case and assess the need for improved safety measures in the area. Meanwhile, Mr. Hughes remains in the hospital, receiving treatment for his injuries and further evaluation of his condition, reported The Pattaya News. Picture courtesy: The Pattaya News -- 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe .

Chon Buri Police Bust Villa Drug Party, Arrest 29-Year-Old Man Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a dramatic police operation yesterday, officers in Chon Buri raided a villa in Najomtien, leading to the arrest of a 29-year-old man and the seizure of illicit drugs during a poolside party. Acting on neighborhood complaints of excessive noise and unusual activity, the police swooped in on the location around 3:30 PM. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331742-chon-buri-police-bust-villa-drug-party-arrest-29-year-old-man/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a dramatic police operation yesterday, officers in Chon Buri raided a villa in Najomtien, leading to the arrest of a 29-year-old man and the seizure of illicit drugs during a poolside party. Acting on neighborhood complaints of excessive noise and unusual activity, the police swooped in on the location around 3:30 PM. Police Colonel Wattanachai Saengrith spearheaded the operation, which resulted in the discovery of 10 young adults participating in what appeared to be a drug-fueled gathering. The villa, equipped with laser lights and loud music, resembled a makeshift nightclub. During the raid, officers found multiple small packs of ketamine totaling 4.64 grams in the possession of Thachaphon “Phong” Onwong, who admitted the drugs were his. He was taken into custody amidst further investigations. This crackdown reflects a broader effort by local authorities to combat drug use, especially in private property gatherings that evade more public scrutiny. The detained individuals are facing inquiries at the Najomtien Police Station, where their legal processing will proceed. The event also coincides with a similar action in Nakhon Pathom, where police disbanded another drug-laden party in a luxurious villa earlier this month, emphasizing a nationwide push against such illegal activities. In Nakhon Pathom, 34 participants were arrested after being caught with substances including ketamine and methamphetamine. Both operations underline the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in curbing drug-related offenses amidst increasingly inventive methods by those involved in such illicit activities. These incidents serve as stark reminders of the persistence of drug issues in Thailand and the continual efforts required to address them. -- 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Man Detained for Blackmailing French Ex with Private Images Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a striking case of digital extortion, authorities in Pattaya, Thailand, have arrested a 40-year-old Thai man for allegedly attempting to extort a French woman by threatening to release explicit images of her. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331741-thai-man-detained-for-blackmailing-french-ex-with-private-images/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a striking case of digital extortion, authorities in Pattaya, Thailand, have arrested a 40-year-old Thai man for allegedly attempting to extort a French woman by threatening to release explicit images of her. The arrest took place under the directive of the Thai Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) following a detailed investigation influenced by the victim’s complaints. The backstory involves the accused, only identified by his first name, Chalermwut, and the unnamed French national. They initially met and captured the images during a consensual relationship while living together in Thailand in 2017. After moving to Vietnam together, their relationship soured, and the victim moved out, prompting Chalermwut’s eventual return to Thailand in 2022. By 2022, the dynamics had deteriorated severely. Chalermwut began demanding 900 euros from the woman, threatening to release their previously shared private moments online if she did not comply. To pressurize her further, he went as far as creating several social media profiles geared at disseminating these images. Frightened by the threats, the victim approached the TCSD, leading to the swift apprehension of Chalermwut at his condominium in Chon Buri. Upon arrest, the suspect confessed to the charges. His motivation stemmed from feelings of betrayal and financial deprivation after their break-up, sparking a revengeful plot against his ex-partner. Chalermwut’s capture stands as a significant win for digital privacy enforcement and highlights the ongoing struggle against cyber harassment and extortion. He now faces legal proceedings where he will be held accountable for his actions. Meanwhile, the case serves as a pivotal reminder of the critical importance of digital consent and the severe repercussions of violating online privacy rights. -- 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourist chaos in Phuket: Foreigner Steals Car and Crashes into Van Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Chaos unfolded in Phuket yesterday when a foreign visitor engaged in a series of shocking behaviors, culminating in a serious road accident. The scene played out on Patong Hill, causing prolonged traffic delays and leaving two people injured. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331739-tourist-chaos-in-phuket-foreigner-steals-car-and-crashes-into-van/

Chaos unfolded in Phuket yesterday when a foreign visitor engaged in a series of shocking behaviors, culminating in a serious road accident. The scene played out on Patong Hill, causing prolonged traffic delays and leaving two people injured. The saga began with an altercation involving the tourist, who had previously assaulted a Myanmar worker before fleeing to a local hospital where he was temporarily apprehendid. Escaping custody, the man managed to steal a parked white Toyota van from a PTT gas station where its owner, Tiwa Santhichatsak, had momentarily left the engine running. Driven in a reckless escape attempt, the stolen van crashed into another vehicle, a Hyundai van, driven by Sompong Ruangchan, who suffered leg injuries as a result. The impact trapped the foreign perpetrator in the wreckage, necessitating a rescue operation involving hydraulic tools. The significant debate initiated by this incident revolved around delays and danger poised to Patong Hill's traffic, rendering both lanes congested and straining local police resources. In the ensuing chaos, police and emergency responders were swift to administer aid and manage the ensuing traffic jam. The authorities questioned the tourist and contacted his embassy, indicating likely legal repercussions. Initial police speculation suggested the sequence of erratic behavior might have been triggered by psychological or substance abuse issues, though official confirmation awaited further investigation. Chalermpong Sangdee, MP for Phuket’s 2nd district from the Move Forward Party, emphasized the importance of establishing clearer protocols for managing such situations in tourist-heavy areas. This madcap episode not only serves as a dramatic anecdote for Phuket's locals and visitors but also raises pertinent debates about safety regulations and the management of tourist behavior in such high-traffic destinations. Further updates are anticipated as investigations continue into this bizarre incident that threw a wrench in the typically bustling area of Patong Beach. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Ranked Sixth Best Country Worldwide for Expats Picture courtesy: nWikipedia Thailand has been ranked as the sixth-best country in the world for expats to live and work, according to the latest Expat Insider report from InterNations, the global community for expatriates. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331738-thailand-ranked-sixth-best-country-worldwide-for-expats/

Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand has been ranked as the sixth-best country in the world for expats to live and work, according to the latest Expat Insider report from InterNations, the global community for expatriates. The report, which surveyed over 12,500 expatriates in February, revealed that Panama took the top spot out of 53 countries. The survey looked into expat satisfaction based on their quality of life abroad, with the key areas being ease of settling in, working conditions, personal finances, and access to essential services and amenities. Panama emerged as the favourite, with a whopping 82% of its expats expressing happiness with their lives. Expats cited Panama's low cost of living, ease of relocation, and affordable housing as significant factors contributing to their high satisfaction levels. Many respondents moved to Panama for financial reasons, retirement, or to improve their overall quality of life. The top ten countries, following Panama, include Mexico, Indonesia, Spain, Colombia, Thailand, Brazil, Vietnam, the Philippines, and the United Arab Emirates. In Thailand, expats praised the country's welcoming atmosphere, vibrant culture, and relatively low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for those seeking work-life balance. Government Spokesman Chai Wacharonke noted that Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has been actively promoting tourism as a key economic strategy since taking office. The government has introduced several initiatives to boost foreign arrivals, such as visa-free entry for selected nationalities and fast-track visas for participants in MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions). These measures are part of a broader effort to create jobs and generate revenue in Thailand's tourism sector, positioning the country as a favourable destination for both tourists and expatriates alike. Thailand's ranking in the Expat Insider report highlights its appeal as an expat-friendly destination, reflecting the positive experiences of those who have chosen to make it their home. -- 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Still Unclear Where Chinatown Fire Started With 60 Houses Likely Gutted by TNR Staff FORENSIC Police started investigating last night’s huge inferno at Trok Pho community on Yaowarat road but as yet are unable to determine exactly where it started amid difficult conditions with water still being sprayed at some spots to prevent the fire from reigniting, Thai Rath newspaper said this afternoon (July 7). It is as yet unclear how many houses were burnt down with one report saying 30 but Praram Radio Centre put the total at 60. The blaze also spread to the New Empire Hotel damaging its fourth, fifth and sixth floors. Also damaged were the fourth and fifth floors of Chalermburi shark fin and Tai Cheng Hot Pot & Dim Sum restaurants. This radio centre added that many of the houses that were gutted were made of wood and built close to each other with damage spread across one and 2 wah land plot. Five men were injured in this big fire with one admitted to Hua Chiew Hospital after suffering an electric shock, two men were admitted to BMA General Hospital (Klang Hospital) for smoke inhalation while two others were also being treated at Taksin and Samitivej Chinatown hospitals for the same condition but on outpatient basis. Full story: THE THAI NEWSROOM 2024-07-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 8 July 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1331737-thailand-live-monday-8-july-2024/

Picture courtesy; Workpoint news The Rama 199 radio center received a report via the 199 hotline about a fire in the Pho Alley community on Yaowarat Road, Samphanthawong Subdistrict. Fire and rescue teams from Suan Mali, Phu Khao Thong, and Banthat Thong stations were dispatched to the scene. Fire in Bangkok’s Chinatown injures 30, damages hotel Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1331691-guests-rescued-from-hotel-during-fire/