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PM's Affidavit Prepped for Court in Impeachment Saga Srettha Thavisin. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has confirmed today that he has officially signed an affidavit defending himself against an impeachment lawsuit. The document, prepared by Srettha's legal team, was submitted to the Constitutional Court earlier this morning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329252-pms-affidavit-prepped-for-court-in-impeachment-saga/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has confirmed today that he has officially signed an affidavit defending himself against an impeachment lawsuit. The document, prepared by Srettha's legal team, was submitted to the Constitutional Court earlier this morning. This affidavit comes in response to charges brought forth by a group of 40 senators, many of whom are said to be aligned with Palang Pracharath leader Prawit Wongsuwan and former coup leader-turned-privy councillor Prayut Chan-o-cha. Srettha's adviser, Wissanu Krea-ngam, a respected legal expert, reviewed the affidavit before it was finalised. Krea-ngam is well-known for his knack for navigating complex legal waters, having previously served in the Thaksin and Prayut governments. The prime minister faces accusations of violating the constitution and political ethics. The controversy stems from his appointment of Pichit Chuenban, a former lawyer for Pheu Thai Party’s de facto leader, Thaksin Shinawatra, to a ministerial position. Chuenban’s appointment to the Prime Minister’s Office last April sparked outrage, primarily because he had previously been sentenced to six months in jail for contempt of court and attempted bribery during a 2008 land grab lawsuit involving Thaksin. Although Chuenban has since resigned amid mounting pressure, Srettha remains vulnerable to impeachment due to the alleged illegality of the appointment. The senators argue that the act constitutes a severe breach of constitutional and ethical standards, equating it to a fait accompli. If the Constitutional Court finds the prime minister guilty, he could potentially lose his position immediately. The case is expected to proceed over the next few months, keeping the political climate tense. Srettha’s ties to Thaksin have led to accusations that the prime minister is merely a puppet for Pheu Thai’s de facto leader. Critics argue that Thaksin has been exerting behind-the-scenes influence, particularly evident in the formation of the Pheu Thai-led coalition government and the appointment of its ministers. Srettha Thavisin. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) -- 2024-06-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Recovers from Covid Thaksin Shinawatra. File photo Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has announced his recovery from Covid-19 as he braces himself for a trial on charges of insulting the monarchy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329251-former-thai-prime-minister-thaksin-recovers-from-covid/

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has announced his recovery from Covid-19 as he braces himself for a trial on charges of insulting the monarchy. Speaking to AFP on Wednesday, the 74-year-old confirmed his health status during a visit to a salon in central Bangkok, dispelling rumours that he had left the country. Thaksin, who was ousted in a 2006 coup, is set to appear in court on June 18 to face charges under Thailand’s stringent lese-majeste laws. The case stems from comments he allegedly made in 2015 to South Korean media. Prosecutors had initially delayed summoning him due to his recent illness. “I am recovered,” Thaksin told AFP, keeping his statements brief and refusing to discuss his upcoming trial. This low-key appearance in Bangkok underlined his presence in the country, putting to rest any speculation of his departure. Post-coup, Thaksin spent 15 years in self-imposed exile before returning to Thailand in August last year. His immediate arrest upon return was based on historic corruption and abuse-of-power charges. Notably, his homecoming coincided with his Pheu Thai party's formation of a coalition government with pro-military parties, fuelling rumours of a behind-the-scenes deal to reduce his prison sentence. Indeed, shortly after his return, his jail term was slashed from eight years to one by royal decree, and he was granted parole in February. Despite ongoing chatter about another possible exile, current Prime Minister and fellow Pheu Thai member Srettha Thavisin dismissed these claims. “I believe he is ready to fight,” Srettha told reporters on Tuesday, voicing his confidence in Thaksin's commitment to facing the judicial process. Though Thaksin claims to have retired from politics, his frequent public appearances suggest he remains an influential figure within Thailand's political landscape, reported Agence France-Presse. TOP: Thaksin Shinawatra. File photo -- 2024-06-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Strong Public Support for Meth Regulation in Thailand Picture courtesy: Khaosod Thailand’s Public Health Ministry revealed that 70% of Thai citizens agree with setting a minimum threshold of one methamphetamine pill for initiating legal proceedings, while 30% prefer a zero-tolerance approach. The Ministry insists that this threshold is crucial for effective law enforcement and streamlined judicial processes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329250-strong-public-support-for-meth-regulation-in-thailand/

Thailand’s Public Health Ministry revealed that 70% of Thai citizens agree with setting a minimum threshold of one methamphetamine pill for initiating legal proceedings, while 30% prefer a zero-tolerance approach. The Ministry insists that this threshold is crucial for effective law enforcement and streamlined judicial processes. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin made the announcement at the opening ceremony of the new Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine Centre in Udon Thani. The event saw the attendance of various dignitaries including Deputy Minister of Transport Manoporn Charoensri, and Secretary to the Public Health Minister Kittikorn Lohsunthorn. This strong presence highlighted the government’s commitment to advancing public health initiatives. Somsak noted the extensive turnout of MPs, particularly from northeastern provinces, underscoring their dedication to addressing public health issues. He pledged the Ministry's full support for drug rehabilitation efforts, indicating that drug addicts are categorised into four groups: green, yellow, orange, and red. Those in the orange and red categories, totaling fewer than 20,000 individuals, require hospitalisation. The Ministry plans to streamline rehabilitation processes, aiming to resolve scenarios where courts have ordered probation without mandating proper treatment. Discussions are ongoing with the Ministry of Justice to address these issues. The threshold for methamphetamine possession was reduced from five pills to one to better align with legal requirements. This adjustment addresses complications where trace amounts of drugs were discovered in inconspicuous places, complicating legal procedures. Investigations will target the source of the drugs, offering voluntary rehabilitation for users to aid in confiscating dealer assets. One user implies the presence of one dealer, the Ministry argues. In addition, Somsak inaugurated the new Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine Centre. Part of the Ministry’s 5+5 policy, the centre aims to elevate the standards of traditional Thai medicine and herbal products. Services include medical cannabis clinics and treatments for conditions like insomnia, chronic pain, and paralysis. Since opening, the centre has treated over 50,000 patients and features a traditional Thai massage therapy clinic and a community-based drug treatment programme, treating 215 individuals to date. The new centre is a significant step towards providing accessible, high-quality traditional medicine services across the region. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-06-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Man Arrested for Selling Dangerous Prescription Medicine Online Picture courtesy: Khaosod Online In a significant crackdown, authorities in Phatthalung have apprehended a man for selling dangerous prescription, or conventional medicine online, raking in a daily income of 30,000 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329248-man-arrested-for-selling-dangerous-prescription-medicine-online/

In a significant crackdown, authorities in Phatthalung have apprehended a man for selling dangerous prescription, or conventional medicine online, raking in a daily income of 30,000 baht. Today, a coordinated effort by local officers and investigative teams culminated in a raid on a house in Pa Phayom District, Phatthalung Province. The raid was prompted by intelligence suggesting illegal online sales of medicine from the residence. The suspect, 24-year-old Panudet, was found in possession of various conventional medicines, none of which were approved by the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These medicines were sourced from neighbouring countries. Panudet admitted to selling the unapproved drugs through LINE chat groups, targeting university students and young women. His illegal operation was highly profitable, generating substantial daily earnings. Authorities also seized nitrous oxide gas, classified as a regulated drug under the Drug Act of 1967. The misuse of nitrous oxide for non-medical purposes is illegal. Panudet faces multiple charges, including possessing Category 2 psychotropic substances without authorisation and violating several sections of the Narcotic Act. Additionally, he is charged with selling unregistered conventional medicine, contravening the Drug Act of 1967. Further investigations revealed that Panudet had been mixing and distributing psychotropic drugs to local students for some time. This marks Phatthalung's first case of discovering such mixed drug formulas. Panudet confessed to sourcing the drugs from Cambodia, Laos, Russia, and France, learning about their properties online. He tested the drugs on himself before bulk ordering for resale. Pharmacist Chutintorn Chaipetch explained the dangers of self-medicating with psychotropic drugs. She highlighted the importance of medical supervision, warning that misuse could lead to severe side effects, including hallucinations and overdose symptoms. Authorities hope this incident underscores the dangers of unregulated medicine use and the vital role of medical oversight. Picture courtesy: Khaosod Online -- 2024-06-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Jetstar Resumes Brisbane-Bangkok Direct Flights After Four-Year Hiatus Picture courtesy: Jetstar Jetstar is set to resume direct flights between Brisbane and Bangkok this December, marking the first non-stop service on this route since Thai Airways suspended operations in March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329247-jetstar-resumes-brisbane-bangkok-direct-flights-after-four-year-hiatus/

Jetstar is set to resume direct flights between Brisbane and Bangkok this December, marking the first non-stop service on this route since Thai Airways suspended operations in March 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic. This development is a significant milestone for Queensland Airport, which, backed by the Queensland Government, aims to restore international connections that were disrupted during the pandemic. Brisbane Airport's reintroduction of the Bangkok route brings its total to 32 direct international routes, while Jetstar now boasts 20 different routes from Brisbane, aligning with the airline’s 20th anniversary. The thrice-weekly service will commence on December 13. Flights will leave Brisbane at 2.20pm on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, and return from Bangkok at 8.25am on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays aboard Jetstar’s Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners. Jetstar's strategic partnership with Brisbane Airport, established last year, has led to the introduction of 500,000 new low-fare seats annually on routes to locations such as Tokyo Narita, Osaka Kansai, Seoul Incheon, and Auckland. This new Brisbane-Bangkok service is anticipated to bring 190,000 inbound seats to Queensland over three years, contributing approximately 116 million Australian dollars (around 2.8 billion baht) to the regional economy and creating up to 630 jobs. Gert-Jan de Graaff, CEO of Brisbane Airport, underscored the demand for the route via social media, highlighting the multifaceted benefits. "A direct flight simplifies family and friend connections and boosts opportunities for Queensland exporters, with up to 15 tonnes of freight capacity per flight. Queenslanders have embraced Jetstar’s value, making it Brisbane Airport’s second-largest international carrier." Also noteworthy, Qantas recently announced a new Brisbane-Manila route starting October 28, with four weekly flights. They are also increasing services on the Brisbane-Singapore route from October 27, which will save up to four hours on travel time to London. Adding to the wave of international connectivity, Thai Airways will resume its direct passenger flights between Brussels and Bangkok daily from December 1, a much-anticipated restoration of service post-Covid. Picture courtesy: Jetstar -- 2024-06-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Vietnamese Drug Kingpin Fugitive Captured in Bangkok Picture courtesy. FM91bkk One of Vietnam’s most wanted drug suspects has been captured in Bangkok after a year on the run. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329246-vietnamese-drug-kingpin-fugitive-captured-in-bangkok/

One of Vietnam’s most wanted drug suspects has been captured in Bangkok after a year on the run. Vietnamese fugitive Nguyen Tuan Thanh was arrested at a luxurious condominium in Bangkok’s Watthana district, Police Lieutenant General Panurat Lakboon, Secretary-General of the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), announced today. The capture was orchestrated following a tip-off from Vietnam’s Counter-Narcotics Police Department under the Ministry of Public Security. According to Vietnamese authorities, 33-year-old Thanh fled to Thailand to dodge a slew of drug charges. His arrest warrant was issued on June 6 last year after a major drug bust on September 22, 2022. During this operation, authorities seized 200 kilogrammes of tobacco leaves laced with ADB-Butinaca, a potent synthetic cannabinoid disguised as a designer drug. The raid resulted in the arrest of seven suspects, all of whom pointed the finger at Thanh as the mastermind behind the illegal operation. Picture courtesy: FM91bkk Following this revelation, Vietnamese authorities enlisted the help of the ONCB to track down Thanh, who had gone into hiding in Thailand. After months of meticulous surveillance and investigation, the ONCB finally closed in on Thanh’s hideout, leading to his arrest. Pol. Lt. Gen. Panurat praised the successful collaboration between Vietnamese and Thai authorities, which ultimately led to Thanh’s capture. “This arrest highlights the importance of international cooperation in tackling transnational crime,” Panurat stated, emphasising the need for continuous collaboration to dismantle drug networks. Thanh has been handed over to law enforcement, and legal proceedings will soon commence. His arrest marks a significant breakthrough in the ongoing battle against drug trafficking in Southeast Asia, underscoring the efficacy of cross-border cooperation in combating such crimes. Picture courtesy. FM91bkk -- 2024-06-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket Raids Unveil Foreign Business Schemes Worth Millions of Baht Picture courtesy: Phuket fr In a concerted effort to dismantle illicit foreign enterprises, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), in collaboration with various Thai law enforcement agencies, stormed three businesses in Phuket on Thursday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329245-phuket-raids-unveil-foreign-business-schemes-worth-millions-of-baht/

Picture courtesy: Phuket fr In a concerted effort to dismantle illicit foreign enterprises, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), in collaboration with various Thai law enforcement agencies, stormed three businesses in Phuket on Thursday. These operations are part of a broader campaign targeting companies that appear legitimate but are suspected of facilitating unlawful activities. Thaveewat Surasit, Director of the DSI’s Security Cases Division, emphasised the importance of the raids, stating, "Our goal is to close loopholes exploited by foreigners while ensuring that the law encourages positive investment. Phuket, being a prime area, is critical in this respect." The meticulously planned raids involved officials from the Department of Tourism, the Department of Enterprise Development, the Tourist Police, the Immigration Police, the Phuket Police, and the Institute of Forensic Science acting in unison. Their primary aim was to collect evidence essential for legal proceedings against these foreign-operated businesses. The first two businesses targeted were located in Golden View Village, The Splash Courting, Kathu District, Phuket. Phuket Best Accounting Co., Ltd., situated at 9/511, and a two-story building at 9/484, were scrutinised, leading to the seizure of financial records evidencing transactions involving nationals from Russia, Pakistan, and India. The amount in question is staggering, estimated between 200 to 300 million baht. The third raid occurred at a residential property in Rock Garden Village, Ratsada Subdistrict, Mueang Phuket District. These investigations, initiated late last year, have unveiled operations primarily helmed by two groups: Europeans, especially Russians, and a mix of Pakistanis and Indians. The Russian faction is predominantly involved in the real estate and hotel sectors, whereas the Pakistani and Indian groups appear concentrated in the restaurant business. Interestingly, the raids revealed minimal involvement of Thai nationals. Authorities maintain that these efforts are part of a larger strategy to clean up Phuket's business landscape, ensuring it remains a secure and attractive investment environment. -- 2024-06-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian Man Arrested in Phuket for Alleged Money Laundering By Goongnang Suksawat A Russian man was arrested at Phuket International Airport for alleged money laundering. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329244-russian-man-arrested-in-phuket-for-alleged-money-laundering/

A Russian man was arrested at Phuket International Airport for alleged money laundering. Immigration officers told the Phuket Express that on Friday (June 7th) they and the Kathu Police arrested a 31-year-old Russian man at the international arrivals terminal in the airport. He is wanted following the issue of an arrest warrant by the Phuket Provincial Court. He is being accused of money laundering and was taken to the Phuket Provincial Court. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-06-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreigners Rescue Sea Turtles from Fishing Net in Thalang By Goongnang Suksawat Two sea turtles were rescued by foreigners after being stuck with a fishing net on a beach in Mai Khao. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329243-foreigners-rescue-sea-turtles-from-fishing-net-in-thalang/

Two sea turtles were rescued by foreigners after being stuck with a fishing net on a beach in Mai Khao. The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) told the Phuket Express that they were notified from Mr. Winai Trakankit on Thursday (June 6th) of the stuck turtle. Foreigners had found two sea turtles stuck in fishing nets on a beach in Maikhao. They were helping to remove the fishing net from the Hawksbill sea turtles when marine officials arrived. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-06-08 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

To continue: Thailand Live Saturday 8 June 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1329242-thailand-live-saturday-8-june-2024/

Thai Pilots Association opposes eased restrictions for foreign pilots Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Thai Pilots Association vehemently opposed a controversial government proposal to ease restrictions on foreign pilots flying with Thai carriers temporarily. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329216-thai-pilots-association-opposes-eased-restrictions-for-foreign-pilots/

Red Bull magnate sues over fraud allegations for 50 million baht Chalerm Yoovidhya, the billionaire behind Red Bull energy drink, has launched another lawsuit claiming defamation. This time he is targeting a news outlet and four individuals, demanding damages of 50 million baht related to claims of bribery. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329203-red-bull-magnate-sues-over-fraud-allegations-for-50-million-baht/

A Good Samaritan reached out to help a poor Thai man in the Samut Prakarn province near Bangkok after he was scammed out of 10,000 baht by his supposed fiancée. A Danish investor living in Pattaya read the sad story about a Thai security guard paying his girlfriend 300 baht a day in instalments, only to be abandoned, on The Thaiger website. Scammed Thai man finds help from philanthropic Danish investor Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329221-scammed-thai-man-finds-help-from-philanthropic-danish-investor/ Photo via Thue Thai News

Thailand aims to amend laws to boost arms exports by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of RTAF The Thai Defence Ministry is moving to amend four key laws to facilitate arms exports, namely domestically produced weapons, aiming to bolster Thailand’s defence industry. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329184-thailand-aims-to-amend-laws-to-boost-arms-exports/

The Thai Defence Ministry is moving to amend four key laws to facilitate arms exports, namely domestically produced weapons, aiming to bolster Thailand’s defence industry. During a recent meeting, Defence Ministry officials, including General Somsak Rungsita and Vice Defence Minister Jumnong Chaimongkol, discussed the necessary changes to national security legislation. High-ranking representatives from the Defence Industry Department, the Defence Technology Institute, and the Defence Industry and Energy Centre were also in attendance to support this initiative. Jumnong noted that Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang is determined to leverage the ministry’s capabilities to drive the defence sector and generate revenue for Thailand. However, several legal and regulatory challenges were identified during the meeting. Currently, some acts pose obstacles to the planned exports, including the Private Arms Factory Act (2007), Arms Control Act (1987), Control of Export of Armaments and War Materials Out of the Kingdom Act (1952), and Defence Technology Institute Act BE (2019). For Jumnong, these laws currently are seen as an obstruction to the ministry’s policy goals of exporting domestically produced weapons. To address these issues, the task force plans to collaborate with private-sector entrepreneurs and partners of the Defence Technology Institute. This collaborative effort aims to modernise the existing legislation, making it more conducive to the ministry’s objectives. The Defence Ministry’s push to amend these laws underscores a strategic shift towards enhancing Thailand’s defence capabilities and positioning the country as a competitive player in the global arms market, reported Bangkok Post. In similar news, in a momentous event overseen by Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang, a ceremony unfolded on May 27 to transfer a cache of arms to Bhutan’s police force. The consignment included 10 armoured vehicles and 230 pistols, all manufactured by two Thai companies. Set against the backdrop of the Defence Ministry‘s permanent secretary office building, the ceremony symbolised the strong defence cooperation between Thailand and Bhutan. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of RTAF Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-07 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Three Chinese Tourists Injured in Boat Collision on Chao Phraya River BANGKOK, June 7 (TNA) – A tourist boat carrying Chinese passengers collided with a ferry on the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok on Thursday afternoon, injuring three people. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1329177-three-chinese-tourists-injured-in-boat-collision-on-chao-phraya-river/