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Pregnant Thai Woman Blackmailed with Secret Footage Picture courtesy: CH 7 A pregnant woman in Khon Kaen, Thailand, is living in fear after a perverted voyeur secretly filmed her in a public bathroom and used the footage to blackmail her for sex and money. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328983-pregnant-thai-woman-blackmailed-with-secret-footage/

A pregnant woman in Khon Kaen, Thailand, is living in fear after a perverted voyeur secretly filmed her in a public bathroom and used the footage to blackmail her for sex and money. Despite her repeated pleas to local police over the past six months, no progress has been made in helping her. The victim, 26-year-old Somprattana, turned to Thai news agencies out of desperation. She initially reported the blackmail to Ban Ped Police Station in January after a man contacted her via Facebook, pretending to be a customer interested in buying durian from her stall. He then convinced her to switch the conversation to the LINE app, where he began sending her explicit photos and videos of herself using a toilet at a nearby petrol station. Somprattana immediately reported these threats to the police and provided them with all the evidence, including the suspect's bank account details after he demanded 1,000 baht to delete the footage. She even transferred him 200 baht to get more personal details. However, despite her cooperation, the police have failed to act. The blackmailer continued to harass and torment her, sending her naked pictures of himself and demanding sexual favours. Somprattana's own investigation revealed small holes in the public bathroom doors—confirming how the man had managed to record her. The police response has been frustratingly inadequate. Officers asked her to gather more evidence, and, bizarrely, suggested dropping the case, arguing the suspect would reoffend after any potential imprisonment. Somprattana's story has now captured the attention of Thai news agencies, who are amplifying her call for justice. She fears for her safety daily, as the blackmailer appears to know her whereabouts and routine. By highlighting her ordeal, Somprattana hopes the authorities will finally take stringent action against the blackmailer and put an end to her nightmare. Picture courtesy: CH 7 -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Governor Chadchart's 5 Orders: No E-Cigs in Bangkok Schools Picture courtesy: Wikimedia Bangkok Governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, announced a campaign to eradicate smoking and vaping from schools under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). This initiative focuses intensely on preventing cigarette and e-cigarette use among children and youth and builds on annual anti-smoking efforts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328981-governor-chadcharts-5-orders-no-e-cigs-in-bangkok-schools/

Bangkok Governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, announced a campaign to eradicate smoking and vaping from schools under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA). This initiative focuses intensely on preventing cigarette and e-cigarette use among children and youth and builds on annual anti-smoking efforts. The newly issued five strict orders in the campaign include: 1. **Ban Signage:** Schools must install or display messages and symbols prohibiting e-cigarettes at all entrances, exits, and within the school premises. Public relations efforts should amplify these messages. 2. **Bag and Premises Inspections:** Schools are instructed to inspect student bags and conduct regular inspections of school buildings and grounds to prevent the entry of e-cigarettes, liquids, or related equipment. 3. **Vendor Crackdown:** District offices and relevant officials are tasked with monitoring and preventing the sale of e-cigarettes around schools, communities, and public places. This includes coordinated efforts by the environment and sanitation department, municipal department, and education department. 4. **E-Cigarette Dropboxes:** Schools are directed to create drop boxes for confiscated e-cigarettes and related items. These must be documented and reported to the district office for further action. 5. **Health Guidance:** Public Health Service Centres are to provide knowledge and advice to schools. If students are found using cigarettes, e-cigarettes, or other addictive substances, they must undergo a behaviour modification process or be directed towards treatment. Chadchart emphasised the severe health risks associated with e-cigarettes, citing their potential to cause nicotine addiction, acute pneumonia, coronary heart disease, cancer, and other chronic illnesses. The aim is to safeguard students' health and well-being. Parents, guardians, and teachers are urged to stay informed and educate children about the dangers of e-cigarettes. The unified effort hopes to protect Bangkok's youth from the harmful effects of smoking and vaping, ensuring safer educational environments. Picture courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Wissanu Denies Plans for Kidney Transplant Amid Health Rumours Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Wissanu Krea-ngam, senior advisor to the Prime Minister, has firmly dispelled ongoing rumours suggesting he is seeking a kidney transplant. The 71-year-old, who requires daily dialysis, remarked that both he and his doctors agree a transplant is unnecessary at this time. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328980-wissanu-denies-plans-for-kidney-transplant-amid-health-rumours/

Wissanu Krea-ngam, senior advisor to the Prime Minister, has firmly dispelled ongoing rumours suggesting he is seeking a kidney transplant. The 71-year-old, who requires daily dialysis, remarked that both he and his doctors agree a transplant is unnecessary at this time. Speaking to the press at Government House post-cabinet meeting, Wissanu stressed his commitment to continuing dialysis, dismissing any ulterior motives behind his return to government service. Allegations had surfaced that he rejoined the administration under Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to jump the queue for a kidney transplant, supposedly at Rama IX Hospital, where the influential Shinawatra family holds significant shares. "It is not true at all that I wish to have a kidney transplant. My doctors and I decided long ago that dialysis is the best method for me. I am okay, though a little busy with having to undergo the treatment every day," Wissanu remarked. In addressing comparisons with Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, who has undergone a kidney transplant, Wissanu clarified that Phumtham's donor was one of his own children and that he now needs immunosuppressants. "I do not want to take the medicine or a kidney from my children," he firmly stated, underscoring his preference for dialysis over surgery. Wissanu also confirmed his attendance at weekly cabinet meetings, barring those held outside Bangkok, despite his health regimen. Known for serving as Deputy Prime Minister under former PM Prayut Chan-o-cha, Wissanu has been reinstated by Srettha to help the government navigate legal challenges, specifically concerning the controversial appointment of Pichit Chuenban as PM Office Minister. With a critical rebuttal to the Constitutional Court due by June 7, Wissanu’s legal expertise will be instrumental in addressing the current political controversy. He indicated that his review of the government's defence is already underway. Picture courtesy: Thai PBS -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Nearly 15 Million ‘Fragile’ People Entitled To Digital Wallet Within Fiscal 2024 By Thai Newsroom Reporters A representative image of the digital wallet project. Photo: Thai Rath OFFICIALLY BRANDED AS “FRAGILE” types of people, nearly 15 million nationwide will be entitled to the 10,000-baht, digital wallet handout project before fiscal 2024 ends, government spokesperson Chai Wacharong confirmed today (June 4). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328979-nearly-15-million-‘fragile’-people-entitled-to-digital-wallet-within-fiscal-2024/

OFFICIALLY BRANDED AS “FRAGILE” types of people, nearly 15 million nationwide will be entitled to the 10,000-baht, digital wallet handout project before fiscal 2024 ends, government spokesperson Chai Wacharong confirmed today (June 4). The 14.98 million “fragile” Thai nationals who may currently hold state welfare cards will be the first recipients to the 10,000-baht digital wallet to be handed out within the end of September which marks the end of the current fiscal year whilst other categories of recipients totalling some 35 million will have to wait until the fourth quarter of this year or during October and December, according to the government spokesperson. The cabinet today approved the Budget Bureau’s proposal for the acquisition of 122 billion baht in supplementary budget as part of the Central Fund to finance the digital wallet project specifically for the 14.98 million “fragile” recipients throughout the country, Chai said. By Thai Newsroom Reporters A representative image of the digital wallet project. Photo: Thai Rath Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Downplays Rumours of Thaksin Fleeing Lese Majeste Case Image Composite courtesy: Thai Rath Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today dismissed speculation that Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential figure behind the Pheu Thai Party, would evade an upcoming lese majeste trial. Thaksin, who previously spent 17 years in self-exile, is due to appear in court on June 18. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328978-pm-downplays-rumours-of-thaksin-fleeing-lese-majeste-case/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today dismissed speculation that Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential figure behind the Pheu Thai Party, would evade an upcoming lese majeste trial. Thaksin, who previously spent 17 years in self-exile, is due to appear in court on June 18. Thaksin's daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, assures that her father is fine and not worried about the charges. Thaksin is accused of making offensive comments about the monarchy during a 2009 interview, allegedly linked to his ouster in a 2006 military coup. The Pheu Thai leader’s return to Thailand last August saw his original eight-year jail term for power abuse reduced to one year by royal pardon. Thaksin spent the first half of his sentence in Police Hospital rather than in prison and was granted parole earlier this year. Critics are sceptical about whether Thaksin will face any actual jail time if denied bail. They recall his history of evading court verdicts, which previously led to sentences being read in his absence. Prime Minister Srettha declined to comment further on Thaksin’s case, noting that he had already addressed the matter. The prime minister is himself under scrutiny, facing an impeachment lawsuit filed by 40 senators. They claim his appointment of Pichit Chuenban, Thaksin’s former lawyer, to a ministerial position breached constitutional and ethical standards. Though Pichit resigned under pressure, Srettha's controversial decision could potentially lead to his removal from office if found guilty by the Constitutional Court. In the meantime, the nation watches closely as Thaksin prepares to appear in court. Thaksin’s daughter hints that he may use the trial to “speak the truth” about the allegations against him, potentially adding another layer of intrigue to an already tense political climate. Concerns are mounting over whether justice will be served impartially and whether the upcoming legal battles will shift the country’s political landscape. Image Composite courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Move Forward Submits Defence to Constitutional Court Picture courtesy: Thai PBS The Move Forward party has submitted a detailed rebuttal to the Constitutional Court today, countering charges placed by the Election Commission (EC) that it attempted to undermine the constitutional monarchy. The EC accuses the party of using its election campaign to push for changes to the nation's lèse majesté law, a statute that protects the monarchy from criticism. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328976-move-forward-submits-defence-to-constitutional-court/

The Move Forward party has submitted a detailed rebuttal to the Constitutional Court today, countering charges placed by the Election Commission (EC) that it attempted to undermine the constitutional monarchy. The EC accuses the party of using its election campaign to push for changes to the nation's lèse majesté law, a statute that protects the monarchy from criticism. The EC seeks to have the party dissolved and its executive committee members banned from politics for a decade. Party leader Chaithawat Tulathon crafted the rebuttal, asserting that Move Forward has no intention of toppling the monarchy and denies any wrongdoing. Speaking today, party spokesman Parit Wacharasindhu announced they would reveal the full content of their defence this Sunday. This date coincides with the district level selection of new senators, an event expected to draw significant public attention. Wacharasindhu emphasised that the timing is unrelated to any political manoeuvring but is rather a matter of transparency. This case has captured widespread attention as it touches on sensitive aspects of national identity and political freedom. The lèse majesté law, central to this controversy, is heavily ingrained in the nation's legal system, making any efforts to amend it highly contentious. Move Forward has argued that their campaign merely aims to modernise the law in a way that upholds democratic values without harming the monarchy. Observers are closely watching how the Constitutional Court will navigate this complex issue, torn between upholding traditional values and endorsing political freedoms. The court has yet to set a date for the ruling, but the outcome could have far-reaching implications for the country's political landscape. For now, the public awaits Sunday for a clearer view of Move Forward's defence, as questions about the balance between national tradition and political reform hang in the air. Picture courtesy: Thai PBS -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian Tourist Detained for Disruptive Behaviour in Phuket Hotel Picture courtesy: MGR online A Russian tourist, visibly intoxicated, sparked concerns on Monday evening when he began causing a ruckus at a Phuket hotel. His shouts and threats from his balcony visibly disturbed other guests, prompting swift intervention from local authorities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328975-russian-tourist-detained-for-disruptive-behaviour-in-phuket-hotel/

A Russian tourist, visibly intoxicated, sparked concerns on Monday evening when he began causing a ruckus at a Phuket hotel. His shouts and threats from his balcony visibly disturbed other guests, prompting swift intervention from local authorities. The incident unfolded around 3:30 PM at a hotel in the Karon area. Witnesses reported the man screaming from his fifth-floor balcony, drawing a crowd and alarming hotel personnel. His threats to jump intensified the urgency, leading staff to promptly contact the Karon Police. When the police arrived, accompanied by a Russian interpreter, the man retreated into his room and ignored calls to open the door. Hotel staff, using a spare key, gained entry into the room where they found the man lying on the bed, looking dazed and exhausted, presumably from his outburst. The police arrested the man without resistance, surprisingly much easier due to his tired state. He was subsequently taken to the local police station, where he underwent a drug test to determine if substances other than alcohol contributed to his behaviour. While authorities have not disclosed the man's name or further specifics about his background, they confirmed that an investigation is underway. Preliminary results of the drug test and further questioning are expected to shed light on his actions. This incident marks yet another case where police intervention successfully mitigated potential harm. Both guests and hotel staff praised the rapid response, highlighting the importance of maintaining strict security measures in tourist-heavy areas like Phuket. Local authorities continue to emphasize the need for vigilance and proper conduct in such environments, ensuring safety and peace for all visitors. As the investigation unfolds, further details may emerge, possibly revealing underlying issues faced by the distressed tourist. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai lifeguards nab American phone thief at Kata Beach Picture courtesy: MGR online In a dramatic turn of events at Kata Beach, Phuket, Thai lifeguards assisted a foreign woman in apprehending an American man who had stolen her mobile phone. The incident occurred on Saturday, June 1, when the woman left her phone on the beach while she was swimming, giving the thief an opportunity to strike. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328974-thai-lifeguards-nab-american-phone-thief-at-kata-beach/

In a dramatic turn of events at Kata Beach, Phuket, Thai lifeguards assisted a foreign woman in apprehending an American man who had stolen her mobile phone. The incident occurred on Saturday, June 1, when the woman left her phone on the beach while she was swimming, giving the thief an opportunity to strike. The scene quickly gained attention on Thai social media platforms, with a video showing the foreign woman in a pink swimsuit confronting the American man. The woman dearly attempted to reclaim her phone, shouting and pulling at his shorts where the phone was hidden. “He stole from me! You stole my telephone!” she exclaimed, as the man attempted to walk away, denying the theft. Witnesses noticed the escalating situation and called on nearby Thai lifeguards for assistance. The lifeguards intervened, managing to retrieve the phone from the man’s pocket. They asked the thief to remain at the scene until the police arrived, and he complied without making any attempt to flee. Picture courtesy: MGR online The popular local news page, Phuket Hotnews, reported that the American man was subsequently taken to Karon Police Station for questioning. The authorities determined that he appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. Consequently, he was charged under Section 378 of the Criminal Law for causing disturbance in public while intoxicated, which carries a penalty of a fine up to 5,000 baht. Interestingly, the police did not press any charges related to the theft itself, as the victim had her phone returned to her. This incident highlights the vigilant efforts of local lifeguards and the swift actions of Thai authorities, ensuring that a peaceful day at the beach was restored despite the initial disturbance. TOP Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-06-05 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe Picture courtesy: MGR online

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 5 June 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1328973-thailand-live-wednesday-5-june-2024/

British mum’s dengue fever warning after son’s Thai holiday tragedy Picture of Bob Toulson-Burke courtesy of his mother Jane A crestfallen British mother urged travellers ahead of the holiday season to be wary of dengue fever after losing her son to the disease while he was on holiday in Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328951-british-mum’s-dengue-fever-warning-after-son’s-thai-holiday-tragedy/

On June 2nd, Pattaya police raided four bars in different parts of the city following reports that these places were allegedly staying open past the legal operating hours. The bars were situated on Soi Kho Phai, South Pattaya Road, and Pattaya Third Road. Pattaya Police Take Action Against Bars Operating Past Legal Hours Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328958-pattaya-police-take-action-against-bars-operating-past-legal-hours/

UK warns British tourists to behave in Thailand or face jail time by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Stay in Thailand The United Kingdom Foreign Office issued a travel warning to British tourists heading to Thailand ahead of the summer holidays: “Behave, or end up in jail!” Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328925-uk-warns-british-tourists-to-behave-in-thailand-or-face-jail-time/

The United Kingdom Foreign Office issued a travel warning to British tourists heading to Thailand ahead of the summer holidays: “Behave, or end up in jail!” The Foreign Office advised British holidaymakers flying to the Land of Smiles to be cautious of the new visa rules. “From 1 June 2024, British passport holders arriving by air or land can enter Thailand without a visa (visa exemption) for tourism and short-term business engagements for a period not exceeding 60 days. If you intend to stay longer (for work, study, or other reasons), you need to obtain a visa before you travel. “If you stay beyond the period of your visa, you will be fined 500 Thai baht per day, up to a maximum of 20,000 baht. You risk being held in detention.” You also risk being “deported at your own expense” and “banned from re-entering Thailand for up to 10 years.” The Foreign Office warns that “conditions in detention centres can be harsh.” It adds that holidaymakers can find more information on visas or entry requirements by contacting the Royal Thai Embassy or the local Immigration Office. Tax duty The UK Foreign Office has explained that there are strict regulations regarding goods that can be brought into and taken out of Thailand. Holidaymakers must declare any items that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. The Foreign Office has specifically issued a warning about importing cigarettes, reported National World. “It is illegal to import more than 200 cigarettes per person into Thailand. This is enforced at customs on arrival. If you go over the limit, you could be fined 10 times the value. Furthermore, your cigarettes will likely be confiscated.” The UK Foreign Office also revealed details regarding passport validity requirements. “Your passport must remain valid for at least six months from the date of entry into Thailand. Entry to Thailand may be denied if your passport is damaged or has missing pages. “If you’re a dual national, to avoid problems at immigration, you must leave Thailand on the same passport you used to enter. If you need to renew or apply for a new British passport, see overseas British passport applications.” In related news, last month Police in Phuket detained a British national following an altercation involving a tuk tuk driver, where the foreigner was accused of physically assaulting the driver over a fare dispute. The incident, which was captured on CCTV footage, garnered significant attention on social media, leading to a swift police response. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Stay in Thailand Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Teens riding against traffic cause fatal accident in Pathum Thani by Nattapong Westwood Image courtesy of Khaosod Two teenagers caused a fatal accident by riding their motorcycle against the traffic flow and colliding with another motorcycle on a main road, resulting in the death of a young security guard. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328923-teens-riding-against-traffic-cause-fatal-accident-in-pathum-thani/

Two teenagers caused a fatal accident by riding their motorcycle against the traffic flow and colliding with another motorcycle on a main road, resulting in the death of a young security guard. The accident occurred at 8pm yesterday on Tiwanon Road in Pathum Thani Province. The Thai authorities are currently waiting to interview the injured 15 year olds before proceeding with legal action. Officers from Pak Khlong Rangsit Police Station alongside forensic doctors from the Ministry of Justice and members of the Ruamkatanyu Foundation quickly rushed to the scene upon receiving word of a collision involving two motorcycles that resulted in both injuries and a fatality. At the scene, the deceased was identified as 35 year old Surisak Ketkaew from Chumphon Province. He was found lying in the middle of the road. Nearby, his damaged Nonthaburi-registered Honda motorcycle was discovered with significant damage on its front end. On the pavement was another severely damaged Honda motorcycle driven by the teenagers. They were identified as Kajapol and Ananda and were previously rushed to Pathum Thani Hospital by Ruamkatanyu Foundation staff. A representative from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation stated that the two injured teenagers were riding their motorcycle against the traffic flow. They overheard one of them talking on the phone with a relative, mentioning that they had been riding against the traffic before the fatal accident with Surisak’s motorcycle. After the police completed their examination of the accident scene, they documented the evidence and instructed the foundation’s staff to transfer the deceased’s body to the Institute of Forensic Medicine at the Ministry of Justice for further examination. The authorities plan to interview the injured teenagers to gather more information and proceed with legal action, reported Khaosod. This tragic accident highlights the issue of road safety, namely the dangers of riding in traffic and the severe consequences it can have. The police are determined to investigate thoroughly and ensure that justice is served. by Nattapong Westwood Image courtesy of Khaosod Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand, Malaysia make border demarcation progress by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Suara Ampera Melayu Patani Thailand and Malaysia are making strides in demarcating their shared border, as outlined in the Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328922-thailand-malaysia-make-border-demarcation-progress/

Thailand and Malaysia are making strides in demarcating their shared border, as outlined in the Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced. The border between Thailand and Malaysia spans 647 kilometres, stretching from Thailand’s Satun province and Malaysia’s Perlis state in the west to Thailand’s Narathiwat province and Malaysia’s Kelantan state in the east. Nathapol Khantahiran, Deputy Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs, recently led a group of journalists to the Tak Bai immigration checkpoint in Narathiwat, where a forum was held to discuss the progress of the border demarcation. Representatives from several government organisations, including the Department of Treaties and Legal Affairs and the Royal Thai Survey Department, participated in the event. The Anglo-Siamese Treaty, also known as the Bangkok Treaty, was signed in Bangkok on March 10, 1909. This treaty established the modern border between Malaysia and Thailand. The areas of modern Pattani, Narathiwat, southernmost Songkhla, Satun, and Yala remained under Thai control. Decades later, the southern insurgency would erupt in this region. Nathapol stated that the first border demarcation pole was erected during the reign of King Chulalongkorn the Great. Between 1910 and 1911, a total of 109 such poles were erected, marking the first phase of Thai-Malaysian border demarcation cooperation. The second phase began in 1973 and concluded in 1985, during which 12,169 border demarcation poles were erected. According to Nathapol, no new poles have been erected since then; only damaged poles have been repaired and missing ones replaced, with joint efforts conducted in 1993. From 2000 to 2009, both countries made further progress by using the Kolok River as a reference line and identifying 1,550 spots for new demarcation poles. However, floods caused significant changes to the landscape, including the riverbanks, which stalled the demarcation work until recently, reported Bangkok Post. A proposal has been made for the Thai government to form a new negotiating team to resume cooperation with Malaysia and complete the demarcation process, Nathapol said. This proposal will first be forwarded to the cabinet for approval. Despite changes in the governments of both nations over the past few years, which halted demarcation progress, the work needs to restart and be completed for border security, transboundary crime suppression, and the protection of the interests of both Thai and Malaysian people, he added. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Suara Ampera Melayu Patani Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe