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to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 19 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1341077-thailand-live-saturday-19-october-2024/

Iranian Couple Caught Robbing Saudi Tourist in Bangkok Picture courtesy: ToutelaThailande Police in Bangkok apprehended an Iranian couple suspected of robbing a Saudi tourist using a cunning distraction scheme. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341067-iranian-couple-caught-robbing-saudi-tourist-in-bangkok/

Thailand Probes Thaksin's Alleged Political Manipulation FILE - Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, center, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Thailand’s Election Commission is ramping up efforts to address sweeping allegations of power misuse by Thaksin Shinawatra. As the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai party, Thaksin is accused of clandestinely steering both his party and its coalition partners, despite being legally barred from political involvement following past criminal convictions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341072-thailand-probes-thaksins-alleged-political-manipulation/

Photo courtesy of Phuket News British woman injured by boat propeller on Similan Islands by Puntid Tantivangphaisal A British woman sustained injuries from a boat propeller while diving near Island 7 on the Similan Islands. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341061-british-woman-injured-by-boat-propeller-on-similan-islands/

Thailand Explores Visa Waiver Talks with Laos to Enhance Tourism Picture courtesy: Wikimedia Thailand is set to engage in discussions with neighbouring Laos regarding a potential proposal to exempt visa on arrival (VOA) fees at their shared border checkpoints. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341074-thailand-explores-visa-waiver-talks-with-laos-to-enhance-tourism/

Thailand is set to engage in discussions with neighbouring Laos regarding a potential proposal to exempt visa on arrival (VOA) fees at their shared border checkpoints. This initiative, spearheaded by Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong, aims to lift some of the barriers currently facing foreign travellers, thereby encouraging increased tourist flow into provinces alongside the Mekong River. Minister Sorawong announced plans to meet with the Lao Minister of Information, Culture, and Tourism, Suansavanh Viyaket, on October 18. The primary focus will be on easing travel for international visitors crossing from Laos into Thailand, especially during key festivals. The goal? To enhance tourism not just for the sake of numbers, but also to foster a smoother cultural exchange. With an intention to amplify the influx of tourists, specifically from countries like China and South Korea, targets are being set to increase monthly arrivals from 4,000 to 10,000 visitors. Additional measures under review include providing alternative incentives, such as a 1,000-baht coupon redeemable at participating hospitality venues, should the visa exemption fail to materialise. In a recent meeting with business stakeholders in Nong Khai province, Minister Sorawong heard various strategies proposed by local entrepreneurs to uplift tourism. These entrepreneurs, who contribute significantly to the Northeastern region's economy, requested government support to emphasise "faith tourism" during notable religious events like the Naga Fireball festival. They also advocated for promoting unique provincial attributes rather than direct competition for tourists—for instance, Nong Khai focusing on cross-border trade and Nakhon Phanom highlighting local cuisine. Such collaborative efforts are timely, as tourism serves as a robust economic driver in the region. The proposed visa changes could act as a catalyst, boosting local income and reinforcing cultural ties across the border, reported Thae Nation. Picture courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-10-18

Bomb blitz rocks southern Thailand: Seven injured by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post A series of bomb blasts sent shockwaves through Sungai Padi district, in the southern province of Narathiwat province this morning, leaving seven security personnel injured and sparking concerns about the region’s escalating unrest. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341073-bomb-blitz-rocks-southern-thailand-seven-injured/

A series of bomb blasts sent shockwaves through Sungai Padi district, in the southern province of Narathiwat province this morning, leaving seven security personnel injured and sparking concerns about the region’s escalating unrest. The attacks began just before dawn, with bombs planted strategically near power poles outside a gas factory in Kuwa Village, according to Ranger Task Force 4810. The first explosion detonated at 5.53am, followed by a second blast just three minutes later. Fortunately, no one was hurt in these initial attacks. However, the violence escalated when a third bomb ripped through the area near a bridge as a patrol vehicle passed. The explosion injured five members of the security team on board—one paramilitary ranger and four ranger volunteers. Despite the intensity of the blast, all sustained only minor injuries. But the carnage didn’t stop there. Just before 10am, two more bombs exploded, this time only 500 metres away from the 447th Border Patrol Police outpost on the Sungai Kolok-Sungai Padi route. The blasts injured two police officers, who were rushed to the hospital. This spate of bombings highlights the increasing instability in Thailand’s southern provinces, where insurgent activity has persisted for years. While no group has claimed responsibility, the attacks underscore the ongoing dangers faced by security forces in the area. Police are now investigating the incident as tensions in the region continue to rise, reported Bangkok Post. In related news, insurgents are believed to be behind the bombing of an ATM booth and a fire at a local government office in Saba Yoi district, Songkhla province. No injuries were reported. The ATM booth, located in front of the Ban Nod Tambon Administration Organisation (TAO) office, was targeted by a bomb around 1.50am on September 14. In other news, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) officers dashed to the scene after a resident made a chilling discovery at the iCon Group office in Soi Ramintra 9, Bang Khen district, Bangkok. What first appeared to be a hazardous bomb left locals trembling in shock but turned out to be a well-crafted fake. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-18

Thailand Probes Thaksin's Alleged Political Manipulation FILE - Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, center, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Thailand’s Election Commission is ramping up efforts to address sweeping allegations of power misuse by Thaksin Shinawatra. As the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai party, Thaksin is accused of clandestinely steering both his party and its coalition partners, despite being legally barred from political involvement following past criminal convictions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341072-thailand-probes-thaksins-alleged-political-manipulation/

FILE - Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, center, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Thailand’s Election Commission is ramping up efforts to address sweeping allegations of power misuse by Thaksin Shinawatra. As the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai party, Thaksin is accused of clandestinely steering both his party and its coalition partners, despite being legally barred from political involvement following past criminal convictions. Thaksin’s alleged activities include orchestrating secret meetings with leaders from various coalition parties, such as Bhumjaithai, Palang Pracharath, Ruam Thai Sang Chart, Chart Thai Pattana, and Prachachart. These gatherings reportedly took place after Thailand's former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin was ousted by a split decision from the Constitutional Court for ethics violations. Key decisions regarding the country's future leadership and the distribution of cabinet portfolios were allegedly made during these covert meetings at Thaksin’s residence. The Election Commission’s decision to form an ad hoc committee highlights the seriousness of the accusations. The investigative body, led by Secretary-General Sawaeng Boonmee, is tasked with a 30-day probe to unearth the truth behind allegations of Thaksin’s dominance over party dynamics. The inquiries arose from multiple petitions, demanding not only the investigation but also the possible dissolution of both the Pheu Thai and involved coalition parties. If found guilty, the repercussions for Thaksin could be severe. He could face imprisonment and further tarnishing of his political legacy. His daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, would also face significant consequences, including removal from office. Such an outcome would destabilise the existing political order, triggering a reshuffle in the government and possibly even new elections. Thaksin’s manoeuvres have reignited attention on his controversial political career, reflecting the enduring influence of the Shinawatra family in Thailand’s political theatre. Observers note that this situation showcases the complex interplay between personal influence and official governance in the country’s tumultuous political environment, reported Thai Newsroom. The upcoming investigation by the Election Commission is poised to be a pivotal moment. It will scrutinise these accusations, aiming to uphold legal and ethical standards within Thai politics while managing the potential fallout of any findings that could reshape the current political landscape. As the probe progresses, it promises to test the resilience of Thailand’s political institutions in maintaining transparency and justice. -- 2024-10-18

Thai man reverses amicable divorce after catching wife with another man by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 and Hone Krasae A Thai man reversed an amicable divorce agreement with his wife after catching her with another man a day before signing the official divorce papers. Instead, he filed an adultery lawsuit against her and her lover. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341071-thai-man-reverses-amicable-divorce-after-catching-wife-with-another-man/

A Thai man reversed an amicable divorce agreement with his wife after catching her with another man a day before signing the official divorce papers. Instead, he filed an adultery lawsuit against her and her lover. The 21 year old Thai man shared in an interview on the news programme Hone Keasae that he discovered his wife’s affair about a month after they had separated. Although they had not yet signed official divorce papers, he found her with her lover in their former shared room in Chon Buri province. The man explained that he and his wife were married for about a year but they were living separately because his work was based in Bangkok. Nevertheless, he visited his wife every Wednesday to spend time together. Recently, he noticed a change in his wife’s behaviour. She rarely answered his calls and even blocked his contact, leaving him confused. He decided to discuss the situation with his ex-wife, which only made matters worse. His wife caught him talking to his ex-wife online, which made her angry, and she demanded a divorce. The man insisted that his conversations with his ex were purely friendly, with no romantic feelings involved. However, the couple agreed to separate and scheduled to sign the official divorce papers on October 17. Condom proof of affair The man went on to explain that on October 16, the day before the scheduled signing, he went to their former shared room in Chonburi to collect his personal belongings. He arrived at around 11pm and found another man in the room. He immediately recorded a video of the situation, which angered his wife, who then slapped him. This led to an argument with her lover. The lover claimed that he had not yet engaged in any sexual activity with the wife but the man was unconvinced. The man told the media that he found a pack of two condoms, with one missing, which led him to believe that his wife already had sex with her lover. According to the man, his wife insisted that the condoms did not belong to either of them. She also pointed out that the condoms expired, questioning who would use them in such a state. The man expressed his anger, saying that his wife could not even wait a single day to finalise the divorce before bringing another man to the room. He decided not to proceed with the divorce and instead intends to take legal action against her and her lover for adultery. The woman and her alleged lover have yet to come forward to share their side of the story. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 and Hone Krasae Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-18

12 year old Thai boy rescued after escaping abuse by aunt by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 Police rescued a 12 year old Thai boy who fled his home in Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok, after being brutally abused by his aunt. He also sought help for his 14 year old sister. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341070-12-year-old-thai-boy-rescued-after-escaping-abuse-by-aunt/

Police rescued a 12 year old Thai boy who fled his home in Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok, after being brutally abused by his aunt. He also sought help for his 14 year old sister. The 45 year old Thai woman, Wanpen Chaimart, filed a missing person report at Sai Noi Police Station on Tuesday, October 15, at 7.37pm, stating that her 12 year old nephew, whose name was not disclosed to the public, went missing. He walked out of the home at around 12.30pm that day and disappeared. Fortunately, a local in the province came across the boy last night, October 17, sleeping near a pile of rubbish outside a village in the Bang Bua Thong district. The resident provided assistance and later took him to the police station to be reunited with his family. The person who found the boy told Channel 3 that the boy was attempting to hide. He laid down near the rubbish pile and covered himself with a cloth. His body was covered with ants. Upon arriving at the police station, the boy unexpectedly refused to return home and revealed the tragic details of his situation to the officers. He showed them his wounds, bruises, and scars, stating that his aunt beat him, and he no longer wished to stay with her. The boy added that his 14 year old sister suffered the same abuse. She was recently reprimanded by their aunt after leaving home to meet her boyfriend. The boy’s sister admitted during an interview with Channel 7 that the children‘s aunt beat and scolded them both but claimed that she did so out of love and care. She said the boy often left the tap running or the gas stove on, putting the family at risk. Officers attempted to speak with the boy’s aunt but she fled her home and is hiding from the police. Other family members also refused to reveal her whereabouts. As of now, the boy and his older sister are under the care of the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (M-Society). Police will send them to a hospital for medical examinations to document any evidence of physical abuse, in preparation for legal action against their aunt. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-18

Knife-wielding man shot during Kathu standoff by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News A violent confrontation in Kathu escalated dramatically last night, October 17, when police were forced to shoot a 28 year old Thai man after a taser failed to stop his knife-wielding rampage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341068-knife-wielding-man-shot-during-kathu-standoff/

A violent confrontation in Kathu escalated dramatically last night, October 17, when police were forced to shoot a 28 year old Thai man after a taser failed to stop his knife-wielding rampage. Naruphan Sosaphan, reportedly in a delirious state, charged at officers with a blade after they responded to calls about his erratic behaviour. The chaotic scene unfolded around 10pm when a neighbour alerted the police to the man’s dangerous actions inside a home in Village 1, Kathu district. Arriving with rescue workers from the Kusoldharm Foundation, the police attempted to calm the situation. Armed with shields and other defensive equipment, officers were met with Naruphan’s violent resistance. Despite their efforts to negotiate, the young man refused to cooperate, repeatedly waving his knife at officers. As the clock approached midnight, officers deployed a taser in an attempt to subdue him, but Naruphan only grew more aggressive, charging at the officers once again. In a final bid to prevent further harm, one officer fired a shot, hitting him in the thigh. Naruphan was swiftly arrested and taken to Vachira Phuket Hospital for treatment. Shockingly, further investigations revealed his violent past. In 2015, he was convicted of killing his grandmother in an assault and had only been released from prison two months ago. Naruphan’s mother, Sudjai Sosaphan, confirmed her son’s troubled history. Police continue to investigate the incident, while Naruphan remains under guard at the hospital. Police are now reviewing whether his previous convictions and recent release could have been warning signs for this latest violent outburst, reported Phuket News. In related news, Patong’s popular Bangla Road turned into a crime scene early morning on Wednesday, October 16, as police launched a manhunt for a gang behind a brutal knife attack. Chaos erupted in Soi Sea Dragon when a 33 year old man was chased down and stabbed by a group of unidentified assailants. Two brave bystanders, who stepped in to help, ended up injuring themselves. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-18

Iranian Couple Caught Robbing Saudi Tourist in Bangkok Picture courtesy: ToutelaThailande Police in Bangkok apprehended an Iranian couple suspected of robbing a Saudi tourist using a cunning distraction scheme. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341067-iranian-couple-caught-robbing-saudi-tourist-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy: ToutelaThailande Police in Bangkok apprehended an Iranian couple suspected of robbing a Saudi tourist using a cunning distraction scheme. As reported by Thonglor Police Station on 17 October, the suspects, identified as Mr. Mirazim, 51, and Ms. Afsaneh, 47, were stopped near Sukhumvit Soi 33 in Khlong Toei Nuea, Watthana District, on the evening of 16 October. They face charges of joint night theft, after being caught with a 500 Saudi riyal note allegedly stolen from the tourist. This pair reportedly employed a method that had been used in two previous theft cases involving Iranian suspects earlier this year. They allegedly targeted a Chinese and a Russian tourist before, using the same technique: asking to see wallets under the guise of needing to exchange money, one suspect distracted the victim while the other stole from them. Undercover officers on surveillance duty observed the duo engage a Saudi tourist in conversation, with Mr. Mirazim allegedly rifling through the victim’s wallet while Ms. Afsaneh evidently distracted him. On noticing the theft in action, officers intervened, prompting the Saudi tourist to check his wallet, which revealed the missing banknote. In haste, the couple reportedly tried to flee, with Mr. Mirazim disposing of the banknote in an attempt to erase evidence. However, the police quickly recovered it and Mr. Mirazim confessed to the theft. Background checks indicated similar offences in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan province, further implicating them in such activities, reported Khaosod. Currently, the pair face legal proceedings for night theft committed in collaboration, which carries a severe punishment of one to seven years imprisonment and a fine ranging from 20,000 to 140,000 baht, coupled with restitution to the victim. Following this incident, the stolen amount was returned to the Saudi tourist. -- 2024-10-18

iCon Group Scandal: Programmer Accused of Billion-Baht Transfer File photo In a striking turn of events yesterday, Thai authorities detained 18 executives of The iCon Group, a well-known direct sales company, for an initial 12-day period amid allegations of massive financial misconduct. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341066-icon-group-scandal-programmer-accused-of-billion-baht-transfer/

File photo In a striking turn of events yesterday, Thai authorities detained 18 executives of The iCon Group, a well-known direct sales company, for an initial 12-day period amid allegations of massive financial misconduct. Among those arrested are high-profile figures, including actor Yuranant Pamornmontri, presenter Kan Kantathavorn, and actress Pechaya Wattanamontri. The case gained traction after a purportedly suspicious financial transaction occurred just an hour before the arrest of Mr. Jiravat Saengphakdi, known as "Coach Lab." It's believed that over 8 billion baht (equivalent to approximately US$247 million) was transferred out of Thailand by the company's programmer, sparking concerns of a significant financial crime. Ekkapop Luengprasert, adviser to Thailand's Interior Minister, highlighted the incident on the Sai Mai Tong Rod community Facebook page, shedding light on the transaction's timing and the involvement of The iCon's key personnel. As the investigation unfolded, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) raided two locations associated with The iCon Group. These sites were reportedly used for cloud storage and hosting the company’s website data. Notably, significant amounts of data and equipment were still present at the Thanyaburi server facility, despite reports of some equipment being moved earlier. The scale and nature of the alleged financial transfer have raised eyebrows, prompting authorities to delve deeper into the company's operations. With numerous high-profile executives linked to the scandal, the case has captivated public attention, stirring widespread media coverage and public discourse, reported Thai Newsroom. As of now, Mr. Woratphon Waratvorakul, also known as "Boss Paul," remains in police custody for further questioning. Investigators continue to work diligently in piecing together the intricate details and vast network of transactions associated with this case. The story is far from over as authorities seek to unravel the financial web spun by The iCon Group. -- 2024-10-18

UPDATE: Man wanted for fake murder threats at Khon Kaen shopping mall by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ อีสานขอนแก่นนิวส์ and ตำรวจท่องเที่ยวขอนแก่น Khon Kaen Tourist Police Police are searching for a man for making fake murder threats on social media, claiming he would randomly kill people at a shopping mall in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341028-security-tightened-in-khon-kaen-mall-after-shooting-threat/?do=findComment&comment=19313978

Man wanted for fake murder threats at Khon Kaen shopping mall by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ อีสานขอนแก่นนิวส์ and ตำรวจท่องเที่ยวขอนแก่น Khon Kaen Tourist Police Police are searching for a man for making fake murder threats on social media, claiming he would randomly kill people at a shopping mall in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen. A Thai netizen filed a complaint with Mueang Khon Kaen Police Station after encountering a threatening post in a Facebook group for locals in Khon Kaen province. The man, whose Facebook account displayed a Burmese name, shared a picture of a pistol at around 3pm yesterday, October 17, with a caption that read… “The target is 50 gunshots and more than 20 people.” The Facebook user then made another post saying…. “You can’t imagine what I’ve been through since staying in Thailand for six months. It’s been nothing but suffering. I’ve saved some money now. Who will be the lucky ones to lose their heads at the shopping mall?’ The user also posted a screenshot of a conversation between himself and a friend in the comments section. In the conversation, the man said… “I was scammed out of 6,000 baht but no one helped me. It’s a large amount of money for me but no one understands. I filed complaints at two police stations. I sought financial support from my employer but ended up being assaulted. You are not me, and you’ll never understand this.” Following the threat, the shopping mall announced it would close all shops at 6pm. Over 200 police officers arrived at the mall and searched the entire area for the man, but they found nothing. Officers are continuing their investigation to identify the suspect and bring him to justice. The mall is now open as usual but strengthened its safety measures by thoroughly checking visitors’ belongings and closely monitoring CCTV cameras. In a related story on October 13, police arrested a Thai woman for making a fake shooting threat at shopping malls in the Isaan province of Nakhon Ratchasima. She posed as a young man and posted on Facebook that she would shoot innocent people at three malls in the province. The suspect claimed that stress from unemployment and issues with her husband motivated her to make the fake threat. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-18

Thai father’s plea to find missing daughter and 262,000 baht by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A father is pleading for help to find his 15 year old daughter, who has been missing for over two weeks, along with nearly 300,000 baht. He suspects someone has influenced her. The money from selling inherited land was intended for buying property. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341065-thai-father’s-plea-to-find-missing-daughter-and-262000-baht/

A father is pleading for help to find his 15 year old daughter, who has been missing for over two weeks, along with nearly 300,000 baht. He suspects someone has influenced her. The money from selling inherited land was intended for buying property. Narongchai, a 51 year old rider from Prasat, Ban Dan, Buriram, shared his ordeal, seeking media assistance to find his daughter, a vocational student, who vanished on October 4. The family has been anxiously waiting for more than two weeks without any news. Narongchai explained that in April, he received 262,000 baht (US$7,910) from selling his late mother’s land, a sum shared equally among his siblings. He and his wife decided not to deposit the money in their accounts, fearing they might spend it before buying a 320,000 baht (US$9,660) plot of land to build a house. Instead, they put the money in their daughter’s account, believing she wouldn’t touch it as she was a well-behaved girl who rarely left home or socialised. However, things took a concerning turn when Na, an online seller around 35 years old, befriended their daughter. Na frequently took the girl out for dinner, initially once or twice a week, which Narongchai didn’t mind, thinking it was just an adult showing affection. But the outings became more frequent, causing Narongchai to warn his daughter about focusing on her studies. In August, Narongchai mentioned to his daughter that he planned to use the money to buy the land soon. His daughter responded by saying she was busy. Missing daughter In the following month, she claimed her bank account was locked, preventing any transactions. Narongchai sought advice and was told to visit the bank. However, his daughter kept making excuses to avoid the visit. On October 4, when Narongchai told her they would go to the bank together the next day, she immediately rode her motorcycle away and has been unreachable since. On October 7, Narongchai reported the matter to Police Lieutenant Colonel Settaphong Meeklom at the Mueang Police Station, seeking help to track down his missing daughter and the money in her account. Attempts to call her have failed; communication has been limited to LINE application chats, where she mentioned she was looking for work, but she avoided calls to prevent revealing her location, reported KhaoSod. Narongchai strongly believes someone has influenced his daughter to either take the money or leave home. He urges police to find his daughter and investigate the money’s transfer history, suspecting those who took her out might be involved in wrongdoing. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-18

Thailand, US bolster trade ties with focus on high-tech investments by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan and US Ambassador Robert F. Godec yesterday engaged in discussions focusing on trade tariffs and investment in high-tech sectors, aiming for strategic alignment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341064-thailand-us-bolster-trade-ties-with-focus-on-high-tech-investments/