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In an extensive operation, cyber police arrested an online loan shark who was charging an exorbitant 3% interest rate per day, using threats and public shaming as intimidation tactics. The clampdown revealed numerous incriminating items linked to the illegal venture. The operation, overseen by Cyber Police Chief Worawat Watnakornbancha, stemmed from a search warrant issued by the Trang Provincial Court. The raid, executed in Trang Province, led to the apprehension of 22-year-old Nichanan. Seized items included a mobile phone, 35 loan agreements, customer lists in six notebooks, and nine posters advertising fast loans. Nichanan is accused of running a high-interest loan business without authorization. The investigation began when Cyber Police Division 5 discovered a Facebook account offering loans with an illegal daily interest rate of 3%, targeting individuals for amounts up to 100,000 baht. Non-payment was met with threats, public shaming on Facebook, or property destruction. The cyber police tracked and identified the Facebook account and its owner, leading to the raid. Nichanan is now in custody at Sikao Police Station, facing charges and further investigation. This operation is part of a broader initiative to eliminate illegal loan practices and protect citizens from predatory lenders. Authorities are committed to ensuring financial businesses conform to legal frameworks, thus safeguarding individuals from exploitative financial practices. In a related matter, a mother faced with a staggering debt of 2.6 million baht, resulting from a 10,000 baht loan taken 12 years ago for her child's school fees, highlights the severe impact of excessive interest rates. The debt spiraled out of control, prompting the mother to seek aid through the "Survive – Sai Mai Must Survive" Facebook page. The crackdown and related stories underscore the increasing threat posed by online loan sharks exploiting vulnerable individuals through social media. The authorities are determined to prevent such exploitation through continued vigilance and enforcement. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-06-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourism Council's Plan to Combat Overtourism Revealed File photo courtesy: Thailand Business News Tourism faces a crisis as overtourism sparks protests globally. The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has a plan to manage the surge in visitors, urging cooperation between businesses and local communities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329813-tourism-councils-plan-to-combat-overtourism-revealed/

Tourism faces a crisis as overtourism sparks protests globally. The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has a plan to manage the surge in visitors, urging cooperation between businesses and local communities. As travel demand skyrockets post-pandemic, locals in several countries demand measures to control tourist influx. Julia Simpson, WTTC President and CEO, explained, "Overtourism arguably began in the 18th century. It's about managing the tourism flow." Simpson emphasised that businesses must collaborate with local authorities. Encouraging off-season travel and implementing digital ticketing for popular attractions could ease overcrowding. During a panel at the International Air Transport Association’s annual general meeting in Dubai, Simpson highlighted successful destination management examples. In Rwanda, tourists pay US$1,500 (approx. £1,100) to see mountain gorillas, with fees supporting local farmers and services. This initiative has boosted both the gorilla population and local incomes. Barcelona also received praise for its approach. Tourists can buy digital tickets to visit multiple Gaudí sites, including the iconic Sagrada Familia. This system spreads visitors across various locations, supporting local employment and preserving culture. Yet, challenges remain, such as skyrocketing property prices in tourist hotspots like Spain’s Balearic Islands. Simpson spotlighted Thailand, urging it to develop infrastructure that encourages tourists to explore beyond major areas. This would enhance travel experiences and distribute economic benefits more widely. Thailand’s efforts in marketing, luxury travel promotion, and expanding visa-free travel were lauded. Simpson suggested Thailand diversify its economy while maintaining tourism as a key sector. Countries like Saudi Arabia are also investing in tourism as a tool for soft power and cultural diplomacy. Despite the conflict, Ukrainians at a tourism conference recognised travel's vital role in post-war reconstruction. According to WTTC, the travel and tourism sector, encompassing hotels, airlines, and other distributors, is projected to reach US$11.1 trillion (approx. £9.3 trillion) this year, employing over 348 million people worldwide. File photo courtesy: Thailand Business News -- 2024-06-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Probe into Salary Deductions for Thai Military Conscripts Unveiled Picture courtesy: Royal Thai Army An investigation has been initiated by Thailand's Second Army Region following a leaked document that allegedly shows deductions from new conscripts' salaries, sparking controversy online. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329812-probe-into-salary-deductions-for-thai-military-conscripts-unveiled/

An investigation has been initiated by Thailand's Second Army Region following a leaked document that allegedly shows deductions from new conscripts' salaries, sparking controversy online. The document, shared by the Facebook page "E-Sor Crushing News 3," purportedly details the expense account of new conscripts from a specific military unit. According to the page, various deductions—including a 500 Baht fee for septic tank pumping—result in conscripts receiving less than 5,000 Baht after all deductions. The document outlines an income of 10,990 Baht, with deductions for life insurance, uniforms, training equipment, cleaning supplies, and other expenses, leaving a net remaining amount of 4,710 Baht. The 500 Baht for septic tank pumping attracted particular attention and criticism. Reacting to the backlash, the military clarified that some deductions were misunderstood. A subsequent post indicated that the 500 Baht septic tank pumping fee had been cancelled, attributing the deduction to a mistake. Lt. Gen. Adul Boonthamcharoen, Commander of the Second Army Region, addressed the controversy by confirming the establishment of an investigation to look into the deductions reported in the leaked document. He revealed that Col. Achawin Akapin, Commander of the 22nd Transportation and Service Battalion, had been transferred to assist at the Second Army Region headquarters pending the outcome of the investigation. Lt. Gen. Boonthamcharoen stated that while parts of the document were accurate, it was a preliminary proposal and not the finalised expense list. He assured that fees like the septic tank pumping fee should have been excluded from the final deductions. In response to the incident, the army revised the remaining salary for conscripts to 6,170 Baht by abolishing the 990 Baht utility fee. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang have both expressed concerns, with the latter emphasizing that any unauthorized deductions should cease, assuring an income of around 10,000 Baht for conscripts. This investigation aims to restore public confidence and ensure fair treatment for military conscripts across the country. Picture courtesy: Royal Thai Army -- 2024-06-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Launches “Talk with Srettha” to Connect with Public Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is set to launch a unique initiative, "Talk with Srettha," aiming to foster direct engagement with the public. This new programme is scheduled to air on the third Saturday of every month, from 8:00 AM to 8:30 AM on NBT2HD, providing a platform for the Prime Minister to communicate effectively with citizens. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329811-pm-launches-“talk-with-srettha”-to-connect-with-public/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is set to launch a unique initiative, "Talk with Srettha," aiming to foster direct engagement with the public. This new programme is scheduled to air on the third Saturday of every month, from 8:00 AM to 8:30 AM on NBT2HD, providing a platform for the Prime Minister to communicate effectively with citizens. The inaugural episode, set to broadcast soon, was pre-recorded on June 12 at the Government House. Hosted by Teerat Ratanasevi, a former government spokesman, the episode aims to set the tone for future interactions. The primary focus is to recap key government activities, both domestically and internationally, and to inform the public about ongoing government policies and initiatives. Future episodes of "Talk with Srettha" will feature a variety of hosts. News anchor Arisara Kamthorncharoen and well-known presenter Puwanart Kunpalin are among the names slated to take on hosting duties in upcoming shows. The inclusion of different hosts aims to keep the programme dynamic and versatile, catering to a broad audience. The format of the show includes summarising the Prime Minister's key activities and visits, both within the country and abroad. This approach aims to provide transparency and keep the public well-informed about the government's work and progress. There's also scope for the format to be flexible, allowing for on-site broadcasts during the Prime Minister's travels, which could offer real-time updates and insights. The introduction of "Talk with Srettha" signifies a move towards more transparent and open communication between the government and the public. By leveraging television as a medium, the government hopes to build trust and keep the public informed about its actions and intentions. As the programme evolves, it may well become a cornerstone of modern governmental communication. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Digital Wallet Scheme Expands to Include Smartphones File photo. Courtesy: Wikipedia In a significant shift, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat announced today that beneficiaries of the government's 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme can now use the funds to purchase smartphones. This decision comes amid growing recognition of smartphones as essential tools in daily life. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329810-digital-wallet-scheme-expands-to-include-smartphones/

In a significant shift, Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat announced today that beneficiaries of the government's 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme can now use the funds to purchase smartphones. This decision comes amid growing recognition of smartphones as essential tools in daily life. Initially, smartphones were excluded from the list of permissible purchases under the scheme. However, the Digital Wallet Board has revised this stance, considering the ubiquitous role smartphones play in communication, work, and access to information. Julapun further confirmed that the digital wallet project is proceeding on schedule. Barring further changes, both beneficiaries and participating shops can begin the registration process in July. The 10,000-baht payments are expected to be disbursed in the fourth quarter of the year. Eligible recipients include Thai nationals aged 16 and over, with an annual taxable income not exceeding 840,000 baht or combined bank deposits not surpassing 500,000 baht by the end of March 2024. These individuals will receive a one-time benefit of 10,000 baht, aimed at purchasing necessities and services from registered vendors. Items deemed ineligible for purchase with the digital wallet money are government lottery tickets, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, cannabis, Kratom (a narcotic plant), and products related to cannabis and Kratom. Also excluded are gift vouchers, cash vouchers, gold, jewellery, fuel, and natural gas. The digital wallet initiative is expected to have a significant fiscal impact, with an estimated cost of 500 billion baht. Of this, 175 billion baht will be sourced from the 2024 fiscal budget, 152.7 billion baht from the 2025 budget, and an additional 172.3 billion baht borrowed from state-owned banks. This move to include smartphones aligns with the government's broader vision of integrating digital technology into everyday life, highlighting the evolving nature of what constitutes a 'necessity' in modern times. File photo. Courtesy: Wikipedia -- 2024-06-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 15 June 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1329808-thailand-live-saturday-15-june-2024/

The US Senate's Foreign Relations Committee has voiced significant concerns regarding the potential dissolution of Thailand's Move Forward Party (MFP), urging the Thai government to firmly uphold democratic principles. US Senate Urges Thailand to Uphold Democracy Amid Party Dissolution Fears Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329807-us-senate-urges-thailand-to-uphold-democracy-amid-party-dissolution-fears/ TOP: Ben Cardin. Picture courtesy: Foreign Relations Committee

Ben Cardin. Picture courtesy: Foreign Relations Committee The US Senate's Foreign Relations Committee has voiced significant concerns regarding the potential dissolution of Thailand's Move Forward Party (MFP), urging the Thai government to firmly uphold democratic principles. Committee Chairman Ben Cardin remarked on "X" (formerly Twitter): "I am deeply concerned by developments in Thailand on the potential dissolution of the Move Forward Party. I urge Thai authorities to ensure fair treatment for MFP and respect (for) the will of the many Thai people who cast their votes in support of MFP candidates.” He emphasised that any actions against the MFP or its members must be firmly rooted in due process and the rule of law. Cardin reiterated the importance of maintaining a commitment to shared democratic values between the nations. Simultaneously, ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights (APHR), a regional network advocating human rights, called for international vigilance against what they label as an emerging trend of using judicial mechanisms to dismantle opposition parties in Thailand. APHR warns that democracy in Thailand is deteriorating not just through overt military coups but also through questionable legal interpretations targeting political adversaries. APHR noted that should the MFP face dissolution—similar to the Fate of the Future Forward Party in 2019—millions of Thai citizens would be effectively disenfranchised, raising the spectre of potential civil unrest and instability within the country. This discussion comes ahead of the Thai Constitutional Court's scheduled session on June 18, where they will deliberate the Election Commission's petition for the MFP's dissolution and a ten-year political ban against its executive committee members. The Election Commission bases its case on a prior court ruling that MFP’s election campaign to amend the lèse majesté law was an attempt to undermine the constitutional monarchy. As the situation evolves, both local and international observers are keenly watching to see how Thailand navigates these turbulent political waters. The decisions made in the coming weeks could have far-reaching implications for the country's democratic future. -- 2024-06-15 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok rail fares capped at 20 baht by March 2026 by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The government is set to implement a 20-baht fare cap across all of Greater Bangok’s rail network by March 2026, Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit announced yesterday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329766-bangkok-rail-fares-capped-at-20-baht-by-march-2026/

The government is set to implement a 20-baht fare cap across all of Greater Bangok’s rail network by March 2026, Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit announced yesterday. Suriya confirmed the decision following a meeting with the Common Ticketing System Policy Committee. The committee approved the plan to impose a 20-baht limit on ticket prices throughout Bangkok’s rail network and has instructed all relevant agencies to adhere to this commitment. This announcement comes after the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy Planning (OTP) approved the draft of the Common Ticketing System Management Act. The minister emphasised that the initiative aims to make the rail network more accessible to all residents of Bangkok. Following the committee’s recommendations, the OTP will make the necessary changes before the ministry submits the draft to the Cabinet for further review and endorsement. “The act should be ready by 2025.” Additionally, the ministry has directed the committee to establish a fund to support the operational development and promotion of the scheme. Suriya expressed hope that the 20-baht fare cap would be in place by March 2026 to help reduce transportation and living costs for residents. The meeting also reviewed OTP’s study on various common ticketing systems for Bangkok and its surrounding areas. The study explored different fare structures and fare collection methods, reported Bangkok Post. In related news, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT) proposed two options for the construction of a dual-track railway between Bangkok and Nakhon Ratchasima, assuring locals that the Simathani Bridge will not be demolished. The meeting, held at the Ministry of Transport, aimed to finalise plans and address concerns. In other news, Thailand and Laos are poised to inaugurate a new railway network connecting Bangkok and Vientiane, with a trial run scheduled for later this month, as announced by the SRT. The initiative is set to improve connectivity for travellers and facilitate the movement of goods between the two nations, positioning Thailand as a key logistics hub in the region. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-14 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pool Villa Drug Raid in Udon Thani Nabs 31 Picture courtesy of Mueang Udon Thani Police In a major anti-drug operation, Udon Thani police raided a pool villa, arresting 31 individuals attending a drug-fuelled party. The raid followed a tip-off received by the Damrongdhama Center, leading authorities to uncover a novel type of illicit substance concealed within 13 packs of collagen. Additionally, officers found two ecstasy pills and 2.48 grammes of ketamine at the scene. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329765-pool-villa-drug-raid-in-udon-thani-nabs-31/

In a major anti-drug operation, Udon Thani police raided a pool villa, arresting 31 individuals attending a drug-fuelled party. The raid followed a tip-off received by the Damrongdhama Center, leading authorities to uncover a novel type of illicit substance concealed within 13 packs of collagen. Additionally, officers found two ecstasy pills and 2.48 grammes of ketamine at the scene. Among those apprehended, 29 were Thai nationals, and two hailed from Laos. Preliminary investigations indicate that the Laotian suspects were distributing this new drug variant from Laos into Thailand. Drug tests showed that 15 of the detainees had taken illegal substances, a police spokesperson confirmed. "The party had a student uniform theme, despite the attendees being aged between 20 and 30 years," the spokesperson added. All suspects were transported to the Mueang Udon Thani Police Station, where bail was set at 50,000 baht for each individual. Early findings suggest the Laotian nationals smuggled the illicit collagen for use at these gatherings, indicating a larger cross-border drug distribution network. Authorities are determined to dismantle this operation. This marks the third raid targeting such drug parties in the Udon Thani area. Police officials emphasised their commitment to stamping out these activities and continuing their probe into the source and distribution networks of the drugs involved. In a related incident on Tuesday, June 11, police in Nakhon Pathom broke up a similar drug party at a luxury pool villa, seizing ketamine, meth, and other substances and detaining 34 individuals despite their attempts to flee. Formal charges for possession and consumption of illegal drugs have been filed against the detainees. Ongoing investigations aim to trace the origins of the substances and identify the organisers behind these parties, showing Thai authorities' relentless efforts to combat drug use across the country. Picture courtesy of Mueang Udon Thani Police -- 2024-06-14 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai court to review 2001 Thai-Cambodian MoU’s constitutionality by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) Deputy Leader Paiboon Nititawan has taken his concerns about the 2001 Thai-Cambodian memorandum of understanding (MoU) on joint development in the Gulf of Thailand to the Constitutional Court, questioning its alignment with the Thai constitution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329763-thai-court-to-review-2001-thai-cambodian-mou’s-constitutionality/

Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) Deputy Leader Paiboon Nititawan has taken his concerns about the 2001 Thai-Cambodian memorandum of understanding (MoU) on joint development in the Gulf of Thailand to the Constitutional Court, questioning its alignment with the Thai constitution. Paiboon had initially requested the Ombudsman to petition the court on April 10 but, after the Ombudsman failed to act within the 60-day deadline, he decided to approach the court directly. Paiboon contends that the 2001 MoU was never approved by the Thai parliament before it was signed, rendering it “having no legal effect from inception.” He has asked the court to determine whether the Department of Treaties and Legal Affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs should be held accountable for what he perceives as a constitutional violation. Despite acknowledging that the MoU lacked parliamentary approval, Paiboon noted that the department and the ministry continue to reference it in matters concerning the 26,000 square kilometres of territorial waters in the Gulf of Thailand, over which Thailand claims sovereignty. Paiboon has also requested the court to instruct the department and the ministry to cease using the 2001 MoU in their work related to the demarcation of these territorial waters. Paiboon previously stated that if the court ruled the 2001 MoU unconstitutional and without legal effect, based on the 1969 Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties, Thailand would be in a stronger position during any future disputes over overlapping claims with Cambodia. He argued that Cambodia frequently cites the 2001 MoU to support its stance that Thailand formally recognised these territorial waters as shared overlapping claims. Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa earlier clarified that the 2001 Thai-Cambodian MoU is not a treaty and contains no binding clauses. According to Maris, the two governments have not reached any agreements regarding the MoU. “The MoU does not compromise Thailand’s sovereignty over the overlapping claims area (OCA) in Koh Kood in the border province of Trat, as it imposes no obligations.” Pending the court’s decision, several issues remain unresolved, reported Bangkok Post. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-14 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Baht’s the password? Thai gran’s costly slip leads to 105k bank loss by Petch Petpailin Photo via Daily News A 65 year old Thai woman lost 105,000 baht from her bank account after writing her ATM password on the back of the card and subsequently losing it on March 13, resulting in the loss of 105,000 baht in her bank account. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329753-baht’s-the-password-thai-gran’s-costly-slip-leads-to-105k-bank-loss/

A 65 year old Thai woman lost 105,000 baht from her bank account after writing her ATM password on the back of the card and subsequently losing it on March 13, resulting in the loss of 105,000 baht in her bank account. The 65 year old victim, Janpen, accompanied by her 44 year old daughter, Somporn, sought help from Move Forward Party (MFP) MP Kiattikhun Tonyang after the theft remained unsolved for three months. According to the victim, the police stated that the bank’s delay in providing necessary documents and evidence is impeding their investigation and the apprehension of the thief. When the victim contacted the bank, officials insisted on collaborating solely with the police due to the confidential nature of the documents. Somporn expressed her concern that the thief may have already spent the money but was unsure of how to proceed with the case. She recounted the incident, which occurred at a shopping mall in the Rama 2 neighbourhood of Bangkok, to the MP. Somporn explained that her mother visited the mall with her grandson on March 13 and withdrew 30,000 baht from an ATM outside the mall to purchase a mobile phone. Janpen did not realise she had lost her ATM card until March 21. Writing the ATM password on the back of the card, Janpen rushed to the nearest ATM to check her savings and found that only 15,000 baht of her 120,000 baht account was left. A check of the bank statement revealed eight withdrawals by the thief. Somporn and Janpen filed a complaint at Bangkok's Tha Kham Police Station and reported the incident to the bank. Security footage clearly identified the thief as a Thai man between 50 and 60 years old. Despite the bank’s promise to provide evidence to the police, officers claim they have not received it. Somporn expressed her desire to recover some of the money, which represented her mother’s long-term savings. She believes that with faster action from both the bank and the police, it might be possible. MP Kiattikhun promised to follow up on the case with Tha Kham police and urged them to obtain the bank records independently, given their confidential nature. He also urged the thief to surrender, warning that he could face up to three years in prison. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Daily News Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-14 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Budget Airlines Petition Government for Jet Fuel Tax Cut to Lower Airfares Picture courtesy Facebook via wire Budget airlines have urged the Ministry of Finance to lower the excise tax on jet fuel to help reduce operational costs and make air travel more affordable for passengers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329751-budget-airlines-petition-government-for-jet-fuel-tax-cut-to-lower-airfares/

Picture courtesy Facebook via wire Budget airlines have urged the Ministry of Finance to lower the excise tax on jet fuel to help reduce operational costs and make air travel more affordable for passengers. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat confirmed that low-cost carriers are seeking the government’s intervention to reduce the excise tax on jet fuel. This comes after a recent meeting where airline representatives discussed the economic challenges they face and their ongoing support for government initiatives to boost tourism. Having been significantly impacted by the pandemic, these airlines are eager to strengthen their market positions. "The ministry must consult with the Energy Policy Committee before any changes can be enacted," Julapun explained. The Finance Ministry is currently evaluating the airlines' requests. Julapun advised the budget airlines to look into other forms of government assistance, such as liquidity support loans and additional state initiatives that could address their financial challenges. He also pointed out the need to address the high cost of domestic airfares, which has been a cause for public and parliamentary concern. He stated, “If these carriers can ensure that a lower excise tax will reduce passenger ticket prices, it will increase the likelihood of the proposal being approved by relevant agencies and the Cabinet.” To support domestic airlines during the pandemic, the government had previously reduced the excise tax on jet fuel from 4.726 baht per litre to 0.20 baht per litre for three years, from 2020 to 2022. The budget airlines argue that a similar measure is now required to assist in their recovery and to maintain affordable airfares for the public. This request coincides with efforts by the Tourism Authority to promote tourism in 2024. The carriers emphasize that a reduction in the jet fuel tax would be a significant step toward making air travel more accessible as the sector continues its recovery. -- 2024-06-14 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Man dies after pickup veers off Samut Songkhram road by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A 34 year old man tragically lost his life after his pickup truck veered off the road and crashed into a barricade, ejecting him through the rear window. The accident happened at around 2.30am today, June 14, on Samut Songkhram-Bang Phae Road, heading towards Mae Klong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329749-man-dies-after-pickup-veers-off-samut-songkhram-road/

A 34 year old man tragically lost his life after his pickup truck veered off the road and crashed into a barricade, ejecting him through the rear window. The accident happened at around 2.30am today, June 14, on Samut Songkhram-Bang Phae Road, heading towards Mae Klong. Police Lieutenant Pongporn Taowarod, Deputy Inspector at Amphawa Police Station, was alerted to the incident and arrived at the scene with a medical team from Amphawa Hospital and rescue workers from the Samutratchen Foundation. At the scene, a grey four-door pickup truck with Bangkok licence plates was found in a roadside ditch, with a metal barricade impaled through the front of the vehicle and out the rear window. The body of the driver, Nutchayapong, lay next to a nearby house. He had severe head injuries and broken limbs, with bone fragments scattered around. An eyewitness, 43 year old Phinyo Phumra, recounted that he was watching television when he heard a loud noise. Upon investigating, he discovered the pickup truck had lost control and crashed, with the driver ejected from the vehicle and landing outside his house. Phinyo was shocked and immediately called the authorities. Phinyo described the moment he heard the crash. “I was watching TV when I suddenly heard a loud noise. I rushed out and saw the pickup truck had veered off the road and crashed. The driver was thrown out and landed near my house. It was shocking.” Initial investigations suggest that Nutchayapong was driving on a dark road where streetlights were out over a long stretch. He may have been unfamiliar with the road or fell asleep at the wheel, causing him to lose control and crash. The Thai rescue services transferred the body to Somdet Phra Phutthaloetla Hospital for an autopsy and to facilitate the return of the body to his family. Further investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the accident, reported KhaoSod. Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-14 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Koh Samui’s tourism renaissance: An island reawakens by Bill Barnett Koh Samui, Thailand’s renowned resort island, is experiencing a remarkable revival in tourism. The island has witnessed a 69% year-on-year increase in visitor numbers during the first four months of 2024, driven by an influx of domestic tourists, the opening of new international markets, and improved air connectivity. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329748-koh-samui’s-tourism-renaissance-an-island-reawakens/