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Pattaya — A 24-year-old Jordanian man was arrested at a local fitness center in Pattaya for overstaying his visa by over 490 days. Chonburi Immigration officers successfully arrested Mr. Yaha Abdel Rauof Yahya Alsakran, a 24-year-old Jordanian national, for overstaying his visa by 490 days on October 16th. The arrest took place at a fitness center in the Khao Phra Tamnak area in Pattaya. The arrest followed a tip-off from concerned citizens who reported that a Jordanian man with an expired visa frequently visited a fitness center to hang out with his foreign friends. Officers surveyed the area before spotting Mr. Yaha, who matched the concerned citizens’ description. They then approached and requested to check his passport and travel documents. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-10-18

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 18 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1340995-thailand-live-friday-18-october-2024/

Jordanian Man Arrested in Pattaya for Overstaying Visa by 490 Days By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya — A 24-year-old Jordanian man was arrested at a local fitness center in Pattaya for overstaying his visa by over 490 days. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341007-jordanian-man-arrested-in-pattaya-for-overstaying-visa-by-490-days/

Police Seize 220M Baht in Luxury Cars, Gold, and More from 'The Icon' Network Picture courtesy: Daily News Police seized 23 luxury cars valued at 220 million baht from the network associated with the "Big Boss of The Icon." The most significant seizure belonged to Boss Paul, totaling 61 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340987-police-seize-220m-baht-in-luxury-cars-gold-and-more-from-the-icon-network/

The Crime Suppression Division (CSD) officers reported today that they would submit the summary of the 14 cases that rocked Thailand involving the cyanide serial killer. The CSD revealed today, October 17, that they would present the summary to the prosecutor by the end of October. The suspect is expected to be sentenced for one major case in November. Poisoned justice: CSD to wrap up cyanide serial killer cases Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340990-poisoned-justice-csd-to-wrap-up-cyanide-serial-killer-cases/ Photo via MGR Online

Police Seize 220M Baht in Luxury Cars, Gold, and More from 'The Icon' Network Picture courtesy: Daily News Police seized 23 luxury cars valued at 220 million baht from the network associated with the "Big Boss of The Icon." The most significant seizure belonged to Boss Paul, totaling 61 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340987-police-seize-220m-baht-in-luxury-cars-gold-and-more-from-the-icon-network/

Police seized 23 luxury cars valued at 220 million baht from the network associated with the "Big Boss of The Icon." The most significant seizure belonged to Boss Paul, totaling 61 million baht. Thai authorities believe there are more assets to uncover as the investigation continues, with suspects allegedly converting cash into digital currency to avoid detection. Yesterday, police raided The Icon Group’s network, seizing assets from 18 suspects believed to have been obtained through illicit activities. Confiscated items included 23 luxury cars, 121 branded items, 39 electronic devices, and other valuables, totaling approximately 219.7 million baht. Picture courtesy: Daily News Key seizures included assets from Mr. Warathapol Waratyaworakul, known as Boss Paul, with luxury cars like a Benz S 500e, Bentley Flying Spur Hybrid, and Rolls-Royce, totaling over 61 million baht. Ms. Panjarat Kanokrakthanaphorn, or Boss Pan, had two luxury cars worth 30 million baht seized. Similarly, Mr. Kolasatnan, or Boss Peter, faced the confiscation of two cars and electronics worth over 12 million baht. Other prominent figures also had assets seized, including Ms. Kanokthon Puranasukol, or Boss Mae Ying, with a Porsche and other valuables totaling 9.3 million baht. The authorities state that the 220 million baht seized represents only part of the network's assets, as some suspects reportedly converted cash to digital currencies before the crackdown to complicate tracing efforts, reported Daily News. TOP Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-10-17

Indonesian tourists and driver dodge fire disaster on coach (video) by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ข่าวปากช่องนิวส์ Fifty Indonesian tourists and a Thai driver last night safely escaped from a fire that broke out on a coach bus parked on a road in the Isaan province of Nakhon Ratchasima. The fire was reported to Pak Chong Police Station and firefighters yesterday, October 16, at about 7.40pm. The incident occurred on a coach bus parked on the Old Friendship Road in the Pak Chong district of Nakhon Ratchasima province. Upon arrival, officers found the blaze severely damaged the middle and rear of the bus, filling the area with thick black smoke. Three fire engines and firefighters spent about 30 minutes extinguishing the flames. The bus driver, 46 year old Apichart, told police and the news outlet KomChadLuek that he was transporting 50 Indonesian tourists from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima and stopped at the scene so the passengers could dine at a nearby restaurant. After all the tourists had exited the vehicle, the fire unexpectedly broke out at the back of the bus, prompting bystanders to help Apichart tackle the flames. While much of the vehicle was damaged, the tourists’ luggage and belongings were left untouched. Officers are still unable to identify the cause of the fire, as this red-black Scania coach uses petrol as fuel, and the engine remains undamaged. Police later transported the Indonesian tourists to a hotel in the province using vans, allowing them to continue their trip the following day. One of the most tragic bus accidents occurred at the beginning of this month when a fire broke out on a coach bus of students and teachers during their field trip. The blaze killed 23 teachers and students aged between three and 14. Incidents involving coach buses continued to make headlines following the fatal fire earlier. Another bus accident occurred on October 14 in Nakhon Pathom when a coach collided with a 12-wheel truck, leaving 31 university students injured. On the same day, another coach carrying Malaysian tourists crashed into a semi-trailer truck in the southern province of Songkhla, injuring 17 Malaysian tourists and a Thai tour guide. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-17

Leopard spotted in Kaeng Krachan National Park in Phetchaburi by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post A leopard made a rare daytime appearance in Kaeng Krachan National Park, located in the Kaeng Krachan district of Phetchaburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340927-leopard-spotted-in-kaeng-krachan-national-park-in-phetchaburi/

A leopard made a rare daytime appearance in Kaeng Krachan National Park, located in the Kaeng Krachan district of Phetchaburi. Mongkol Chaipakdee, head of Kaeng Krachan National Park, confirmed that a tourist captured detailed photos of the leopard lounging on a road inside the park on Tuesday, October 15. Mongkol noted that leopard sightings have become more frequent recently, indicating an increase in their hunting activities within the park. This trend highlights the park’s thriving ecosystem, which serves as a crucial habitat for various rare wildlife species. Park officials have reminded tourists to remain vigilant while exploring the area, reported Bangkok Post. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-17

Monsoon brings heavy rain to central, eastern, southern Thailand by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Joshua Rawson-Harris, Unsplash Weather conditions for today see a monsoon trough passing through central, eastern, and southern regions, including Bangkok, bringing rain to 60% of the area with heavy showers in some places. Mariners are advised to navigate cautiously due to high waves. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340925-monsoon-brings-heavy-rain-to-central-eastern-southern-thailand/

Weather conditions for today see a monsoon trough passing through central, eastern, and southern regions, including Bangkok, bringing rain to 60% of the area with heavy showers in some places. Mariners are advised to navigate cautiously due to high waves. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasts that for the next 24 hours, the monsoon trough will move across the upper southern region and the eastern region, reaching a low-pressure cell along the central coast of Vietnam. This, combined with easterly and southeasterly winds carrying moisture from the South China Sea and Gulf of Thailand, will cover lower northeastern, central, and eastern regions, including Bangkok and its vicinity. This weather pattern will result in heavy rainfall in parts of the central region, Bangkok, and its surrounding areas, as well as the eastern and southern regions. Citizens in these areas should be cautious of heavy and accumulated rainfall, which could lead to flash floods and forest runoffs, especially in hilly areas near waterways and low-lying regions. The Andaman Sea will experience waves about 1 metre high, while the Gulf of Thailand will have waves lower than 1 metre. However, in thunderstorm areas, waves can exceed 2 metres. Mariners in these regions should avoid sailing in stormy conditions. In the northern region, there will be thunderstorms covering 30% of the area, mainly in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, Lamphun, Lampang, Tak, Sukhothai, and Phitsanulok provinces. The lowest temperatures will range from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the highest temperatures will range from 33 to 36 degrees Celsius. The southeast wind will blow at a speed of 10 to 15 kilometres per hour. In the northeastern region, thunderstorms are expected in 20% of the area, mainly in Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Surin, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani provinces. The lowest temperatures will range from 23 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the highest from 33 to 35 degrees Celsius. The east wind will blow at a speed of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. Heavy rain In the central region, there will be thunderstorms in 40% of the area with heavy rain in some places, particularly in Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Songkhram, Samut Sakhon, Saraburi, and Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya provinces. The lowest temperatures will range from 25 to 26 degrees Celsius, and the highest from 33 to 35 degrees Celsius. The east wind will blow at a speed of 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. The eastern region will experience thunderstorms covering 60% of the area with heavy rain in some places, mainly in Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Chachoengsao, Sa Kaeo, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat provinces. The lowest temperatures will range from 24 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the highest from 30 to 33 degrees Celsius. The variable wind will blow at a speed of 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves lower than 1 metre, but in thunderstorm areas, waves can exceed 2 metres. In the southern region (eastern coast), there will be thunderstorms covering 60% of the area with heavy rain in some places, particularly in Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat provinces. The lowest temperatures will range from 23 to 26 degrees Celsius, and the highest from 31 to 34 degrees Celsius. The southeast wind will blow at a speed of 10 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves lower than 1 metre, but in thunderstorm areas, waves can exceed 2 metres. In the southern region (western coast), there will be thunderstorms covering 60% of the area with heavy rain in some places, mainly in Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun provinces. The lowest temperatures will range from 24 to 25 degrees Celsius, and the highest from 32 to 33 degrees Celsius. The southwest wind will blow at a speed of 15 to 30 kilometres per hour. The sea will have waves about 1 metre high, but in thunderstorm areas, waves can exceed 2 metres, reported KhaoSod. Bangkok and its vicinity will see thunderstorms covering 60% of the area, with heavy rain in some places. The lowest temperatures will range from 25 to 26 degrees Celsius, and the highest from 32 to 35 degrees Celsius. The east wind will blow at 10 to 20 kilometres per hour. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Joshua Rawson-Harris, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-17

High-end Hotels Plan Rate Hike Amid Tourist Surge File photo for reference only. Courtesy: Wikipedia As the tourism sector anticipates a booming high season, posh hotel operators are expected to increase room rates. The latest hotel operator sentiment index suggests a rise in tourists, especially impacting luxury accommodations, while budget hotels are struggling to keep up. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340920-high-end-hotels-plan-rate-hike-amid-tourist-surge/

File photo for reference only. Courtesy: Wikipedia As the tourism sector anticipates a booming high season, posh hotel operators are expected to increase room rates. The latest hotel operator sentiment index suggests a rise in tourists, especially impacting luxury accommodations, while budget hotels are struggling to keep up. Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the Thai Hotels Association (THA), revealed that September's average occupancy rate stood at 55%, a drop from August's 62%. This is also lower than pre-pandemic levels, with 2019 figures showing 63.4% occupancy in the same period. Diving deeper, Thienprasit noted that three-star hotels and below reported a mere 45% occupancy for September. In stark contrast, four-star and above accommodations enjoyed a higher rate of 58.7%. Regional variations were also significant; northern hotels were hit hardest with a drop to 25.7%, primarily due to severe flooding. Meanwhile, central hotels led with a 64.4% rate, and the eastern region followed at 57.1%. The South and Northeast both logged 49% occupancy. During the high season, luxury hotels plan to raise rates modestly, with an increase of less than 10%. However, four-star and above establishments predict room rate surges of over 20%, given their robust performance in the third quarter. October's occupancy rates so far stand at 55.6%, with a predicted tourist uptick of 5-10% in the last quarter. The Chinese market remains unpredictable, with 35% of hoteliers not foreseeing more arrivals, while 27% anticipate a decline. Nonetheless, 38% expect a 10-20% rise, primarily favouring four-star hotels. Concerning domestic tourism, 65% of operators foresee flat or declining bookings, with 19% predicting a drop exceeding 10%. Thienprasit expressed concerns over persistent flooding, urging government intervention with relief measures to help hotels recover in time for the upcoming season. Tourism recovery heavily depends on financial assistance and reduced utility costs to offset damages caused by recent floods, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-17

ICONSIAM Confirms No Association with The Icon Group in Statement Composite: AMRIN TV ICONSIAM has issued a statement clarifying that it has no connection with The Icon Group, following concerns over potential public confusion. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340919-iconsiam-confirms-no-association-with-the-icon-group-in-statement/

Composite: AMRIN TV ICONSIAM has issued a statement clarifying that it has no connection with The Icon Group, following concerns over potential public confusion. On 16 October, the official ICONSIAM Facebook page posted a statement addressing recent misunderstandings among customers and other stakeholders. The company stated that ICONSIAM, which operates the prominent shopping centre, is entirely unaffiliated with The Icon Group, which has been the subject of recent media attention. The statement emphasised that ICONSIAM is committed to conducting its business with transparency and integrity, adhering strictly to all relevant laws. The company urged the public to refrain from making any references or statements linking ICONSIAM or its shopping centre to The Icon Group to prevent further confusion. ICONSIAM reiterated its dedication to maintaining a trustworthy and reputable business, reassuring the public that it has always operated independently, with a strong focus on governance and legal compliance. The statement concluded with a request for the public’s cooperation in upholding these standards and avoiding misinformation that could lead to further public misunderstanding. Thank you. 16 October 2024 -- 2024-10-17

PM Paetongtarn invites China for 6G launch base collaboration FILE photo - Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, center, arrives ahead of the 19th East Asia Summit in Vientiane, Laos, Friday, Oct. 11, 2024. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) In an effort to strengthen economic ties and technological advancement, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has invited China to establish a satellite launch base in Thailand to propel 6G technology deployment. This proposal is part of broader discussions aimed at bolstering bilateral relations as Thailand and China gear up to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties next year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340918-pm-paetongtarn-invites-china-for-6g-launch-base-collaboration/

FILE photo - Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, center, arrives ahead of the 19th East Asia Summit in Vientiane, Laos, Friday, Oct. 11, 2024. (AP Photo/Dita Alangkara) In an effort to strengthen economic ties and technological advancement, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has invited China to establish a satellite launch base in Thailand to propel 6G technology deployment. This proposal is part of broader discussions aimed at bolstering bilateral relations as Thailand and China gear up to celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties next year. The Chinese Ambassador to Thailand, Han Zhiqiang, met with the Prime Minister at Government House, where the ambassador also made a generous donation of 7.2 million baht to aid flood victims in Thailand. Government spokesman Jirayu Huangsab conveyed that the meeting underlined the importance of the "Golden Year of Friendship" anticipated in 2024. Prime Minister Paetongtarn expressed Thailand’s enthusiasm for enhancing trade and investment cooperation with China, particularly in emerging industries. Cultural exchanges are also on the agenda, with plans for joint celebrations extending through 2025. Ambassador Han conveyed his congratulations to Ms Paetongtarn on her new role and emphasized China’s dedication to deepening their partnership. Significantly, the meeting also set the stage for the organisation of cultural events. Highlights include the temporary enshrinement of China's sacred Buddha Tooth Relic in Thailand, and the gifting of a pair of giant pandas, both symbolic ambassadors of goodwill. Furthermore, trade discussions saw Ms Paetongtarn expressing gratitude to China for approving the Guanlei Port as a crucial fruit import checkpoint, enhancing agricultural trade routes. She extended invitations to Chinese enterprises to consider investments in Thailand's burgeoning data centres, electric vehicle industries, and the proposed satellite launch base. The ambassador affirmed China's readiness to facilitate an official visit for Ms Paetongtarn, during which she is expected to engage with top Chinese leaders, as both nations look to cement their strategic partnership and explore mutual growth opportunities, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-10-17

Bank of Thailand Interest Rate Cut Offers Boost to Tourism Sector Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's tourism sector gets a boost following an unexpected interest rate cut by the Bank of Thailand, reducing the official rate by 25 basis points to 2.25% on Wednesday. This move is poised to energise the sector, allowing tour operators to expand and attract more tourists. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340916-bank-of-thailand-interest-rate-cut-offers-boost-to-tourism-sector/

Thailand's tourism sector gets a boost following an unexpected interest rate cut by the Bank of Thailand, reducing the official rate by 25 basis points to 2.25% on Wednesday. This move is poised to energise the sector, allowing tour operators to expand and attract more tourists. Sanga Ruangwattanakul, Khao San Road Business Association president, stated that the rate cut positions the tourism industry for growth. Operators, burdened by previous high rates, now have an opportunity to borrow at lower costs to improve or expand their services, potentially increasing competitiveness. "The economy stands to benefit broadly, as people might cash out savings, boosting investment and consumer spending," stated Mr Sanga. The potential weakening of the baht, following the rate cut, could further encourage international tourism. Suksit Suvunditkul, Thai Hotels Association's southern chapter president, noted that tourists still see Thailand as an affordable destination despite previous price hikes. "The central bank needs to maintain the currency within acceptable limits to prevent negative impacts on tourism," remarked Mr Suksit. The tourism industry has learned from past challenges, such as the significant decline in Russian tourists due to the 2014 financial crisis. However, Mr Suksit remains optimistic, recalling the 1997 economic crisis when a favourable foreign exchange rate spurred tourism. Hotels in Phuket anticipate occupancy rates to soar to 80%, expecting better revenue from increased room rates. Meanwhile, forward bookings for Khao San Road remain moderate at 40% for November, indicating room for improvement, reported Bangkok Post. To catalyse growth, Mr Sanga suggests that the government collaborate on tourism campaigns. These could include tax incentives for hotel bookings, enhancing festival preparations, and improving infrastructure security, especially in anticipation of the cool season festivities. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-10-17

Phuket Airport Boosts Capacity to Meet Rising Tourism Demand Picture via Wikimedia Phuket International Airport is set to increase its flight capacity, aiming to handle 18 million passengers by 2025. This comes in response to growing demands for both international and domestic travel. Presently, the airport manages about 260 to 280 flights daily, with a further increase expected during the high season. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340915-phuket-airport-boosts-capacity-to-meet-rising-tourism-demand/

Picture via Wikimedia Phuket International Airport is set to increase its flight capacity, aiming to handle 18 million passengers by 2025. This comes in response to growing demands for both international and domestic travel. Presently, the airport manages about 260 to 280 flights daily, with a further increase expected during the high season. Director Monchai Tanod outlined that the upcoming development, led by Airports of Thailand (AoT), is in its second phase. The plan includes enhancing airport infrastructure to support more flights, specifically increasing hourly flight frequency from 20 to 25. This expansion will accommodate the rising influx of tourists, predominantly from Europe, China, and Russia. This year, Chinese tourist numbers have reached approximately 60% of pre-Covid levels, while European arrivals have climbed to 85%. Domestic flight demand is also on the rise, as airlines strive to boost passenger numbers. Although there’s optimism, Mr Monchai acknowledges the airport might not return to its 2019 high-season peak of 400 flights and 60,000 passengers per day. Chartered flights, particularly from Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh, are also becoming more frequent. The airport is witnessing high demand for these services, with several flights already fully booked. This trend highlights a growing interest among Middle Eastern tourists. In the past fiscal year ending September 30, Phuket Airport handled over 98,000 flights— 53,378 international and 45,333 domestic—a 20% increase from the previous year. Passenger numbers also surged by 21.2% to reach 16 million. However, the terminals, originally designed for 12.5 million, are now congested. AoT is expediting the expansion with a 6 billion baht budget, focusing on runway and taxiway development, terminal improvements, and boosting flight capacity to 25 per hour, reported Bangkok Post. The initiative aims to reduce congestion and enhance the overall traveller experience. Construction is anticipated to commence in late 2025, promising better facilities for both airlines and passengers. -- 2024-10-17

Cabinet Set to Review Casino-Entertainment Complex Feedback File photo The Cabinet is poised to review feedback from a recent public hearing regarding a proposed bill to establish casino-entertainment complexes in Thailand. This initiative, spearheaded by the Fiscal Policy Office (FPO), aims to regulate casinos and foster tourism-related revenue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340908-cabinet-set-to-review-casino-entertainment-complex-feedback/

File photo The Cabinet is poised to review feedback from a recent public hearing regarding a proposed bill to establish casino-entertainment complexes in Thailand. This initiative, spearheaded by the Fiscal Policy Office (FPO), aims to regulate casinos and foster tourism-related revenue. The bill suggests issuing 30-year licences to operators of these complexes, contingent on a 5 billion baht registration fee and an annual fee of 1 billion baht. The complexes, envisioned to bolster tourism, will be open to all foreigners, while Thai citizens must pay an entrance fee of 5,000 baht. Furthermore, visitors under the age of 20 will be denied entry. An entertainment complex policy committee, headed by the prime minister, will dictate the guidelines for these complexes. Prospective operators must be limited or public limited companies registered in Thailand with a minimum of 10 billion baht in registered capital. During the online hearing, held between 2nd and 18th August, citizens proposed several amendments to the bill. Many called for the bill’s name to be changed to the "integrated resort bill" to reflect a more amenable image. Suggestions also included altering the licence duration, with some urging a reduction to 10 years and others recommending an extension to 50-60 years. There were calls for a reduced entrance fee for Thai citizens, ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 baht, and the proposed implementation of a nationwide fee for 10 years. Concerns were raised about potential money laundering, crime, and social issues associated with legalised gambling. As a solution, participants proposed forming a fund to compensate for any negative impacts, reported Bangkok Post. The Cabinet’s review could reshape the future of entertainment complexes in Thailand, seeking a balance between economic benefits and social responsibility. -- 2024-10-17

Pattaya Police Crack Down on Unregistered Bolt Drivers By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya police cracked down on the misuse of vehicles, particularly among Bolt drivers, resulting in multiple arrests. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1340904-pattaya-police-crack-down-on-unregistered-bolt-drivers/