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Picture courtesy: Khaosod.co.th In an audacious and unexpected turn of events, a Swiss barber named Oliver E. was apprehended by Thai authorities on Koh Phangan Island. He had been operating a barbershop and taking jobs from locals while openly challenging the police to "catch me if you can." Leading up to the arrest, Police Lieutenant General Saksasira Puekarm, commander of the Tourist Police, instructed Police Lieutenant Colonel Winich Boonchit, commander of Tourist Police Division 5, Subdivision 2, Division 3, alongside Koh Phangan tourist police and local administrative officers, to detain the 51-year-old Swiss national. The action took place at Oliver Twist Hair, situated in Baan Tai, Koh Phangan, Surat Thani. Authorities had received numerous reports about a foreigner illegally performing barber services on the island. Investigations revealed a Facebook page under the name "Oliver Twist Hair," where Oliver promoted his haircuts and facilitated bookings via WhatsApp. Picture courtesy: Khaosod.co.th Speaking candidly, Oliver acknowledged his role, stating that while he had permission to work as the managing director for Oliver Twist Art Co., Ltd., his activities as a barber at Oliver Twist Fashion extended beyond the authorised scope. The barbershop, in operation for nine years, charged between 500 and 4,000 baht for haircuts, depending on the style. Upon detention, Thai officials informed Oliver of his charges, noting that he was "a foreigner working outside the scope allowed (barber)." He was then escorted to Koh Phangan Police Station for further legal proceedings. This incident sheds light on the stringent regulations surrounding employment for foreigners in Thailand, aiming to protect local job markets. As the situation unfolds, it poses questions about the challenges expatriates face in navigating local laws and the consequences of flouting them. -- 2024-06-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Hat Yai School Officials Arrested in Major Embezzlement Scandal Picture courtesy: MGR online The director of a well-known school in Hat Yai and three others have been arrested for allegedly stealing money meant for student lunches and school supplies. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330745-hat-yai-school-officials-arrested-in-major-embezzlement-scandal/

The director of a well-known school in Hat Yai and three others have been arrested for allegedly stealing money meant for student lunches and school supplies. Deputy Commissioner Pol. Maj. Gen. Jaroonkiat Pankaew from the Central Investigation Bureau announced the arrests at a press conference on Tuesday. The accused include Mr. Pipat (56), the school director, Mrs. Ubon (55), the deputy director, Mrs. Anchalee (64), another deputy director, and Mrs. Thiranan (65), who manages the school's budget. The investigation began after teachers raised concerns about irregularities in the school's lunch program, uniforms, and supplies. These concerns were reported to the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC). Following this, authorities raided the school and seized important evidence. Picture courtesy: MGR online During the investigation, officials found several discrepancies, especially in the lunch program. It's believed that school officials diverted funds intended for student meals. The government provides 22 baht per student (Kindergarten to Grade 6) for daily meals, covering ingredients and preparation. However, evidence suggests the school kept 5 baht per student, leaving only 17 baht for actual food. This alleged misappropriation likely affected the quality and quantity of meals served. With 1,700 students, this practice could have led to significant financial gain for those involved. Investigators also discovered issues with textbooks. Instead of purchasing new books, the school reportedly handed out used ones that students had to return at the end of the year. If students wanted to keep them, they were required to pay. These "used" books were possibly mixed with new ones and reused in subsequent years. Local authorities are continuing their investigation and promise severe consequences for those responsible. Pol. Maj. Gen. Jaroonkiat stressed that the welfare of students is paramount, and justice will be served. The community is eagerly awaiting updates on this important case. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-06-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand braces for heavy rain and flash floods in 47 provinces by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued an announcement warning of heavy to very heavy rain in 47 provinces, including Bangkok. Residents are advised to be cautious of flash floods and strong winds. The warning remains in effect until tomorrow. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330741-thailand-braces-for-heavy-rain-and-flash-floods-in-47-provinces/

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued an announcement warning of heavy to very heavy rain in 47 provinces, including Bangkok. Residents are advised to be cautious of flash floods and strong winds. The warning remains in effect until tomorrow. TMD’s announcement forecasts significant rainfall across Thailand due to a monsoon trough passing through the northern and upper northeastern regions, combined with a strong southwest monsoon over the upper Andaman Sea and Thailand. Heavy to very heavy rain is expected in several areas, potentially leading to flash floods and landslides, particularly in hilly regions and near waterways. “Today’s weather will bring heavy rain across the country, with the north and Bangkok significantly affected. The southern Andaman Sea will experience waves up to 3 meters high, and small boats are advised to stay ashore.” The provinces expected to experience heavy to very heavy rain include the northern regions of Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, Sukhothai, Uttaradit, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, and Tak. Northeastern regions of Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lam Phu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Kalasin, Roi Et, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani. Central regions of Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Lopburi, and Saraburi, including Bangkok and its vicinity. Eastern regions of Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Southern regions of Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, and Ranong. The upper Andaman Sea will see waves reaching 2 to 3 metres, with waves exceeding 3 metres in thunderstorm areas. The lower Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand will have waves of 1 to 2 metres, increasing to more than 2 metres in thunderstorm areas. Mariners in these regions are urged to exercise caution and avoid sailing in thunderstorm-prone areas. Small boats in the upper Andaman Sea should remain ashore, reported KhaoSod. Residents are advised to stay updated with announcements from the TMD. Information can be accessed via their website or by calling 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182, available 24 hours. The next announcement from the TMD is scheduled for 5pm today, keeping the public informed of any changes in the weather situation, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod -- 2024-06-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Krabi Airport Taxi Rip-Off: 20km Trip Costs Tourist 2,500 Baht Thairath file photo via Thaiger A tourist has lodged a complaint with Krabi’s Damrongtham Centre after facing an extortionate taxi fare at Krabi International Airport. The incident highlights the urgent need for regulation to protect the image of this popular tourist destination. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330736-krabi-airport-taxi-rip-off-20km-trip-costs-tourist-2500-baht/

A tourist has lodged a complaint with Krabi’s Damrongtham Centre after facing an extortionate taxi fare at Krabi International Airport. The incident highlights the urgent need for regulation to protect the image of this popular tourist destination. The tourist, in his 30s, landed at Krabi International Airport on 22nd June at around 10:00 a.m. After disembarking, he was approached by a taxi staff member within the airport. He needed to travel to Krabi City Hall and was quoted a fare of 2,500 baht. Upon his hesitation, the fare was ‘reduced’ to 1,800 baht. This high fee prompted him to inquire further about the distance and travel time, to which he was told it would take 2 hours, a clear misrepresentation. Later consulting his relatives, he discovered that City Hall was only 20 kilometres away, a journey of less than 30 minutes. Outraged by the perceived exploitation, he opted for a pick-up from family members instead and decided to report the issue. He was concerned about other tourists falling victim to similar overcharging and sought resolution to protect Krabi’s tourism reputation. Ms. Umaporn Channarong, Director of Krabi's Damrongtham Centre, assured that the complaint would be thoroughly investigated. Collaboration with relevant agencies will aim to ensure fair treatment of service users and prevent similar incidents from tarnishing the province's image. The controversy underscores the importance of transparent transportation fees to uphold Thailand’s tourism standards. This incident has broader implications, sparking discussions about the importance of trusted and regulated public transport options in tourist heavy regions. Travellers are encouraged to report any such unfair practices via the 24-hour consumer hotline at 1567. The authorities’ quick response is hoped to restore confidence among tourists visiting Krabi, safeguarding both the visitors’ experience and the local tourism sector. Thairath file photo via Thaiger -- 2024-06-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Sleep-deprived driver crashes car in torrential rain, injuring two by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod A sleep-deprived young man driving a car through the rain lost control and crashed into a utility pole at 6am yesterday, resulting in injuries to two women passengers on Suwinthawong Road, Mueang District, Chachoengsao Province. Rescue workers and local police quickly arrived at the scene to assist. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330730-sleep-deprived-driver-crashes-car-in-torrential-rain-injuring-two/

A sleep-deprived young man driving a car through the rain lost control and crashed into a utility pole at 6am yesterday, resulting in injuries to two women passengers on Suwinthawong Road, Mueang District, Chachoengsao Province. Rescue workers and local police quickly arrived at the scene to assist. The vehicle involved, a Toyota hatchback, was found with significant front-end damage. The injured passengers were identified as 22 year old Nanthaphaporn, who sustained head injuries, and 24 year old Wiratchaya, who suffered neck injuries. Both were given first aid by emergency responders before being transported to Phutthasothon Hospital. The driver, 22 year old Apisit explained to the rescue services that he had started his journey from Bangkok around 4am, heading towards Prachinburi Province. He recounted that heavy rain had caused the windshield to fog up, significantly impairing his visibility. Additionally, he cited lack of sleep as a compounding factor in the accident, stating that he had not slept the night prior. Apisit further elaborated that as he approached the accident site, he momentarily dozed off due to exhaustion. He was jolted awake by the car’s warning signals as the vehicle began to veer off the lane. Despite his efforts to regain control, the slippery road conditions, exacerbated by continuous rainfall, caused the car to skid and crash into the utility pole, reported KhaoSod. This incident highlights the dangers of driving while sleep-deprived and under poor weather conditions. It serves as a reminder of the importance of being well-rested before embarking on long journeys and the need to exercise caution when driving in adverse weather. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Retired Professor Falls Victim to 22,8M Baht Thai Call Centre Scam Screenshot: TV Channel 7 In an alarming tale of deception, a 76-year-old retired university professor has been swindled out of an estimated 22.8 million baht (approx. £500,000) by a scammer masquerading as a police officer from Mueang Nakhon Sawan Police Station in central Thailand. The victim, known as Su, spoke out about his ordeal in an interview with Channel 7. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330729-retired-professor-falls-victim-to-228m-baht-thai-call-centre-scam/

In an alarming tale of deception, a 76-year-old retired university professor has been swindled out of an estimated 22.8 million baht (approx. £500,000) by a scammer masquerading as a police officer from Mueang Nakhon Sawan Police Station in central Thailand. The victim, known as Su, spoke out about his ordeal in an interview with Channel 7. Su, who worked diligently to amass his savings during his teaching career, lost his entire nest egg in a span of just 11 days. The scam began with a call to Su’s wife, who declined to engage. Persistence paid off for the scammer, who succeeded in reaching Su on June 2. The caller claimed Su was implicated in a crime in Nakhon Sawan and needed to file a complaint to clear his name. When Su mentioned travelling to Nakhon Sawan was inconvenient, a fraudster visited him pretending to be a police officer. This "officer" convinced Su that his personal details had been used to open a bank account linked to the sale of 200,000 methamphetamine tablets. Under the guise of clearing Su's name, the fake officer requested to evaluate Su's assets. Threatened with legal repercussions if he disclosed the "investigation," Su was coerced into withdrawing and transferring his savings. Over a series of transactions, Su withdrew nearly 23 million baht. The scam continued until he attempted to withdraw an additional 5 million baht from an account earmarked for his daughter. At this juncture, bank officials intervened, notifying his daughter, who then realised her father had been duped. Still reeling from the betrayal, Su is baffled by how meticulously the scammer understood his routines and preferences, even dropping off supposed police gifts. Su and his daughter have since lodged a formal complaint with the Cyber Police, hopeful of recovering the lost funds. The incident underscores the importance of vigilance in the face of increasingly sophisticated scams. Screenshot: TV Channel 7 -- 2024-06-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

AOT Plans New Commercial Activities to Offset Revenue Loss BANGKOK (NNT) - The Airports of Thailand (AOT) announced plans to launch commercial activities to offset an anticipated loss of over 90 million baht due to the reclamation of commercial and office areas at Suvarnabhumi and Phuket International Airports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330726-aot-plans-new-commercial-activities-to-offset-revenue-loss/

BANGKOK (NNT) - The Airports of Thailand (AOT) announced plans to launch commercial activities to offset an anticipated loss of over 90 million baht due to the reclamation of commercial and office areas at Suvarnabhumi and Phuket International Airports. The changes, effective from July 1, aim to enhance facilities and improve passenger satisfaction. The move follows recommendations from aviation consultancy firm Skytrax to elevate Suvarnabhumi Airport to meet passengers' expectations and to rank among the world's top 50 airports by 2025 and within the top 20 in the next five years. AOT will reclaim commercial areas operated by King Power Duty Free and office spaces used by government agencies including the Immigration Bureau, the Thai Customs Department, and the Revenue Department. This will free up approximately 1,097.14 square meters at Suvarnabhumi Airport and about 491.22 square meters at Phuket International Airport. The reclamation is expected to result in a monthly loss of around 1.01 million baht in office and state property rent and could decrease minimum guarantees for the 2024-2025 contract years at Suvarnabhumi and Phuket airports by approximately 74 million baht and 19 million baht per month, respectively. To counteract this decline in revenue, AOT has prepared projects to increase income from other commercial activities. Source: NNT 2024-06-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Feuding Top Thai Cops Reinstated After Suspension Controversy File photo courtesy: Thai Rath In an unexpected twist, Thailand’s suspended top policemen, Pol General Torsak Sukvimol and his deputy Pol General Surachate Hakparn, have been reinstated to their posts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330723-feuding-top-thai-cops-reinstated-after-suspension-controversy/

In an unexpected twist, Thailand’s suspended top policemen, Pol General Torsak Sukvimol and his deputy Pol General Surachate Hakparn, have been reinstated to their posts. Both were sidelined in March under corruption suspicions involving high-stakes online gambling, but a Prime Minister-appointed committee cleared them, prompting their return. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin reinstated the police duo after a three-man fact-finding committee completed its three-month investigation. Despite apparent tension, the committee led by Chatchai Phromlert declared insufficient evidence to keep them suspended. Critics denounce this as a "farce," hinting at secret deals aligning political and power plays rather than justice. The police feud, once heated, saw both high-ranking officers dramatically sidelined. Surachate, often called “Big Joke” and key in southern political dynamics, and Torsak, the current police chief, were embroiled in investigations linking them to online gambling and corruption. Their suspension initially aimed to cleanse the ranks; however, their swift reinstatement signals unresolved issues and potential backroom deals. Surachate's dismissal of the implications hasn't gone unnoticed. Following cybercrime raids targeting his property for money laundering, his return confounds many. Torsak faces scrutiny over undeclared assets, extending the controversy further. The Prime Minister holds the final say amidst an ongoing investigation, with the two officers needing to defend their cases independently. Simultaneously, Surachate has legally challenged his dismissal, threatening to take further action if the matter isn't resolved. The police commission is to review these developments soon, leaving Thailand’s policing future hanging in the balance. Amidst outcry for transparency, public trust wanes as the police forces navigate this turmoil. As Thailand watches closely, outcomes of upcoming reviews promise more drama, leaving citizens questioning the very essence of their justice system. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-06-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 26 June 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330720-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-26-june-2024/

Thailand's minister of health has expressed support for efforts aimed at using seized assets from narcotic drug cases to help fund the rehabilitation of drug addicts. Adding previous laws were too passive which resulted in only around 20 million baht annually allocated to rehabilitation . He said We have to emphasise asset seizure and offer rewards for tip-offs, in the pursuit of drug smugglers. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin dismissed claims that a government proposal to raise the foreign ownership quota in condominiums and offer longer land leases is tantamount to “selling off the nation”. The PM responded by saying "It's about long-term leases, not selling land, And has nothing to do with selling the nation,” The idea is to protect The rights of Thai people while giving a boost to the economy. The United states has issued it’s 2024 Trafficking in Persons Report which States, Thailand remains on Tier 2 for the third consecutive year. The report acknowledged Thailand's significant efforts to improve over the last three years, but noted it still hasn't fully met the minimum standards for eliminating trafficking. Vietnam and Malaysia were upgraded to Tier 2, Brunei was downgraded to Tier 3, and Singapore and the Philippines are on Tier 1. And a chartered plane carrying Julian Assange on route to a court in Saipan touched down at Bangkok’s Don Muang airport to refuel yesterday, the latest developments on this story can be heard on the BBC news in 30 minutes. Around the region. In South Korea The CEO of a lithium battery manufacturer apologised yesterday following a massive fire that killed 23 workers, but said the company had complied with all safety precautions. Mondays fire at a factory with 35,000 lithium batteries, produced thick smoke, workers inside, likely lost consciousness and succumbed within seconds, Seventeen of those who died were Chinese, one was Laotian. The rest were South Koreans. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thunderstorms 31 C degrees celsius Bangkok: Thunderstorms 30 Pattaya: thundershowers 30 Phuket and the south: Cloudy 31 Hua Hin: Cloudy with isolated showers, 30 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, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-06-26 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangsaen Beach Pounded By High Waves, Debris Scattered Shoreline Picture courtesy: MGR online High waves pounded Bangsaen Beach in Chonburi yesterday, leaving debris scattered across the once-pristine shoreline. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330718-bangsaen-beach-pounded-by-high-waves-debris-scattered-shoreline/

High waves pounded Bangsaen Beach in Chonburi yesterday, leaving debris scattered across the once-pristine shoreline. The incident unfolded overnight when the high tide surged, flooding the beach and the adjoining Wonnapha-Bangsaen Beach Road in Saensuk sub-district, Mueang Chonburi district. The over one-meter-high waves created a dramatic scene, keeping beachgoers at bay. By 10:10 AM today, Bangsaen Beach managed to regain its usual calm state. Despite the waning waters, the tide had left behind a substantial amount of debris on the beach. Responding promptly, Saensuk Municipality sent a team of municipal workers to clean up the area this morning. The municipality reports that over 90% of the debris has already been cleared, and they expect to have the beach back to its tidy condition by the end of the day. Picture courtesy: MGR online Mr. Prakrit Waewphech, a 60-year-old beach chair rental operator, shared his thoughts with local media. “I’ve been here for over a decade and have never seen waves and winds this strong,” he remarked. He noted that the rough conditions had a severe impact on his business due to the absence of tourists. However, he remains hopeful for a swift return to the beach's usual bustling atmosphere. The incident serves as a reminder of nature's unpredictability and the resilience of coastal communities. Local authorities are now urging residents and business operators to stay vigilant and prepared for such unexpected natural events, prioritising safety above all. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-06-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Police hunt for gunmen in Khon Kaen university dormitory area by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Royal Thai Police (RTP) are urgently tracking down the perpetrators who shot at a university student’s car and a nearby dormitory in Khon Kaen Municipality, causing significant damages. Fortunately, no one was harmed by the shooting in a seemingly peaceful community. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330717-police-hunt-for-gunmen-in-khon-kaen-university-dormitory-area/

Royal Thai Police (RTP) are urgently tracking down the perpetrators who shot at a university student’s car and a nearby dormitory in Khon Kaen Municipality, causing significant damages. Fortunately, no one was harmed by the shooting in a seemingly peaceful community. Investigators from the Khon Kaen City Police Station today, June 25, visited the scene in Mittraphap Road, to examine CCTV footage around the dormitory and along the suspected escape routes. The damaged pickup truck, which was targeted by the gunmen, remains parked on the street in front of the dormitory. Khon Kaen City Police Station Superintendent Yosawat Kaewsubthanyanich stated that the investigation team has been dispatched to scrutinise CCTV footage at key locations, particularly around the dormitory and potential routes used by the suspects for the crime and subsequent escape. A local, referred to as Uncle A (a pseudonym), mentioned that he did not hear any noise during the incident and was unaware of what had transpired until the morning. He noticed the car owner inspecting the vehicle but did not pay much attention, assuming the student was preparing to go to class as they were dressed in a student uniform. “The cars parked at this dormitory usually find any available spot along the road. Students often park in front of my house, and nothing like this has ever happened before. “There have never been any serious conflicts as the students here generally don’t engage in violent behaviour. Although the police frequently visit this dormitory, there have been no incidents until now, so I have no idea why such a shooting occurred.” The police investigation is ongoing, with RTP officers examining all possible leads and reviewing footage from nearby cameras. They are also interviewing residents and potential witnesses to gather more information about the suspects and their possible motives, reported KhaoSod. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Activist 'Penguin' Absent from Court, Suspected to Have Fled Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Renowned activist and protest leader Mr. Parit Chivarak, widely known as Penguin, has reportedly fled after failing to appear for a court hearing in Bangkok today (June 25). The hearing was crucial, as it was set to deliver a verdict on charges under Thailand's lese majeste law, officially Section 112 of the Criminal Code, and the Computer Crimes Act. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330715-activist-penguin-absent-from-court-suspected-to-have-fled/

Renowned activist and protest leader Mr. Parit Chivarak, widely known as Penguin, has reportedly fled after failing to appear for a court hearing in Bangkok today (June 25). The hearing was crucial, as it was set to deliver a verdict on charges under Thailand's lese majeste law, officially Section 112 of the Criminal Code, and the Computer Crimes Act. Despite prosecutors and Parit's legal team being present and ready, Penguin was noticeably absent. His lawyer stated that he had no knowledge of Parit's whereabouts and was unable to contact him on the day of the trial. This no-show led the court to issue an immediate arrest warrant for the activist. Penguin, who has consistently denied the charges, was previously released on bail. The court underscored that he was well-aware of the date and time set for the hearing and offered no valid excuse for his absence. As a result, the court has rescheduled the hearing to 9 a.m. on July 31, 2024, while authorities search for him. Later in the day, a well-known internet commentator, Jjookklong3, posted on social media platform X, confirming the rumours that Penguin had indeed fled. Jjookklong3 questioned the responsibilities that may fall upon the Thammasat University professor who had vouched for Penguin's bail. “This is just the first of 25 cases he faces. Why would he not flee?” Jjookklong3 remarked, hinting at the gravity of the activist's legal battle. Thailand's lese majeste law has long been a contentious issue, criminalising defaming, insulting, or threatening the monarchy with penalties up to 15 years in prison per count. Penguin’s absence at court is likely to fuel further debate over the use and implications of this controversial law. The news has left authorities scrambling to locate Penguin while stirring a mix of reactions among the public and activists who continue to monitor the unfolding narrative. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-06-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Venomous Jellyfish Warning Issued for Phuket’s Racha Yai Island Picture courtesy: Naewna An urgent warning has been issued concerning the presence of highly venomous Portuguese Man o’ War jellyfish in the waters surrounding Lah Bay and Tue Bay at Racha Yai Island, Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1330714-venomous-jellyfish-warning-issued-for-phuket’s-racha-yai-island/

An urgent warning has been issued concerning the presence of highly venomous Portuguese Man o’ War jellyfish in the waters surrounding Lah Bay and Tue Bay at Racha Yai Island, Phuket. Authorities advise tourists and marine enthusiasts to exercise extreme caution to avoid contact with these dangerous creatures. The alert, issued by the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, highlights the peril posed by Portuguese Man o’ War. Commonly misidentified as jellyfish, these creatures are known for their potent venom. Contact with their tentacles can cause severe pain, skin irritation, and in extreme cases, can affect the nervous and cardiovascular systems, potentially leading to death. Easily recognisable by its distinctive bottle-shaped float, the Portuguese Man o’ War must be avoided at all costs. Prompt first-aid response is crucial if stung. Tentacles should be removed using a hard object, never bare hands. Rubbing the affected area or applying ointment is strongly discouraged. Instead, vinegar should be poured continuously over the sting for at least 30 seconds to neutralise toxins. Freshwater should not be used as it can exacerbate the spread of venom. Immediate medical attention is essential. Phuket's beaches, known for their beauty and vibrant marine life, are a major draw for tourists. However, visitors are urged to take this warning seriously. One tourist, who encountered the Portuguese Man o’ War last year, shared, "I felt an intense burning sensation immediately after contact. It was unlike anything I had ever felt before, and I was fortunate to receive prompt medical treatment." The Marine Department is monitoring the situation closely and has increased efforts to inform the public. Signs have been posted in affected areas, and local businesses are assisting in spreading the word. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment advises that these creatures, typically found in open oceans, can be brought closer to shore by strong winds and currents, particularly during certain seasons. Staying informed about local marine conditions is essential for safety. This situation highlights the importance of vigilance to ensure the well-being of both locals and visitors to Phuket’s picturesque shores. Picture courtesy: Naewna -- 2024-06-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe