webfact

Loan Shark Couple Surrenders Over Nude Photo Scandal Picture courtesy: Thailand Idaq Asia A married couple running a private loan agency surrendered to Sri Maha Phot Police in Prachin Buri early this morning. They face grave allegations of posting nude photos of debt defaulters online. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328896-loan-shark-couple-surrenders-over-nude-photo-scandal/

A married couple running a private loan agency surrendered to Sri Maha Phot Police in Prachin Buri early this morning. They face grave allegations of posting nude photos of debt defaulters online. The 31-year-old woman and her husband were interrogated by Sri Maha Phot Station Chief Police Colonel Mongkol Thopao for an hour. Post-interrogation, the woman, shocked by the situation, refused to speak with reporters. The couple turned themselves in after learning that authorities had searched their home in Tha Tum Subdistrict, Sri Maha Phot District, yesterday evening. They were away in Kalasin province for religious merit-making, and their house was locked during the search. Pol. Col. Mongkol advised the couple to surrender upon their return. They now face charges of operating as loan sharks, posting nude photos on computer systems, and demanding repayments in a manner that harmed the reputations of others. A man from Chachoengsao province alleged that he had borrowed 500 baht from the woman. His nude photo was reportedly sent to his five guarantors, including his mother. The man claimed that the creditor demanded he pose naked with his ID card and sign a contract allowing her to release the photo if he defaulted. He reported paying a weekly interest of 100 baht for six weeks but when he fell one day behind in the seventh week, his nude photo was released. Furthermore, the creditor allegedly required female debtors to pose topless for photos, which were used in a similar fashion. In related news, authorities have apprehended two notorious loan sharks for assaulting and publicly humiliating an assistant teacher in Ratchaburi province. The couple filmed the assault and nearly shaved the victim’s head before their clippers malfunctioned. This incident began when a Thai woman named Fa gathered a group to attack the assistant teacher due to missed debt payments. The authorities have ramped up efforts to tackle these unethical loan shark practices, which have created a climate of fear and humiliation among debtors. Picture courtesy: Thailand Idaq Asia -- 2024-06-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Suspected industrial waste found in Rayong compound of Win Process Co. Officials from the Industrial Works Department have found what they suspect is industrial waste, buried in a landfill next to the warehouse of the Win Process recycling plant in Ban Khai district of Rayong province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328895-suspected-industrial-waste-found-in-rayong-compound-of-win-process-co/

Officials from the Industrial Works Department have found what they suspect is industrial waste, buried in a landfill next to the warehouse of the Win Process recycling plant in Ban Khai district of Rayong province. With the help of neighbourhood residents, who pointed out the suspect landfill, officials used a backhoe to excavate. Three holes were dug and the officials found waste, which emits a very strong odour. They took samples to be tested in a laboratory, to determine whether the waste is aluminium dross or other chemicals. Many used car tires were also found in one of the holes. It is suspected that Win Process did not recycle industrial waste, of which it took deliveries from other factories in the industrial estate, but merely buried it, resulting in toxic substances seeping through the ground and into natural waterways. Full story: Thai PBS 2024-06-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

German Woman Found Unconscious in Pattaya Swimming Pool, Rescued by Neighbors By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya - A 70-year-old German woman was rescued by her neighbors after her son saw her floating unconscious in a swimming pool at their house through a CCTV camera. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328894-german-woman-found-unconscious-in-pattaya-swimming-pool-rescued-by-neighbors/

Pattaya - A 70-year-old German woman was rescued by her neighbors after her son saw her floating unconscious in a swimming pool at their house through a CCTV camera. The incident occurred at around 10:36 PM on June 2nd at a house on Soi Phonprapanimit 15 in the Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province. According to Mr. Keng, a 45-year-old Thai neighbor of the German woman, he received a call from the woman’s son, who was not at home at the time of the incident. The son had seen his mother on the home security camera, lying face down in the pool for an unusually long time, and decided to call Mr. Keng for urgent help. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-06-04 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 4June 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1328893-thailand-live-tuesday-4-june-2024/

Swedish Tourist in Pattaya Steals Motorcycles, Hits Several Cars Picture courtesy: The Pattaya News A Swedish tourist's wild antics involving stolen motorcycles and car crashes ended with him in police custody early Sunday morning, in the city of Pattaya, Thailand. Identified as 34-year-old Oliver Joakim Stare, the tourist was spotted shirtless on a surveillance camera. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328866-swedish-tourist-in-pattaya-steals-motorcycles-hits-several-cars/

Srettha turns to Wissanu for legal advice amid Pichit controversy Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is preparing his defense concerning the controversial appointment of Pichit Chuenban as a minister in the PM’s Office. To assist him, Srettha has sought advice from his new adviser, Wissanu Krea-ngam. Although a defense has been prepared, it still needs honing before being presented to the Constitutional Court by June 10. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328881-srettha-turns-to-wissanu-for-legal-advice-amid-pichit-controversy/

Pita Limjaroenrat, a key member of the Move Forward Party (MFP) and former prime ministerial candidate, recently said he is ready to step up as Prime Minister if the current holder of the office, Srettha Thavisin, is removed through a court decision. The statement comes amid growing political uncertainty in the country. Pita Declares His Readiness to Succeed Srettha as Prime Minister Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328880-pita-declares-his-readiness-to-succeed-srettha-as-prime-minister/

British Man Allegedly Assaults Thai Village Manager Picture courtesy: Khaosod An incident in the quiet housing estate near Phibun Songkhram Road, Nonthaburi, has left residents shocked. Mr. Phanumeth, a 67-year-old manager of the estate, filed a complaint at Mueang Nonthaburi Police Station after being punched to the ground by a British resident named Matthew. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328840-british-man-allegedly-assaults-thai-village-manager/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod An incident in the quiet housing estate near Phibun Songkhram Road, Nonthaburi, has left residents shocked. Mr. Phanumeth, a 67-year-old manager of the estate, filed a complaint at Mueang Nonthaburi Police Station after being punched to the ground by a British resident named Matthew. Matthew, who has been living in the village with his Thai wife for several years, is known among the local security guards for his volatile temper and frequent disruptions. The altercation occurred around 8:30 AM on the morning of 31st May. Matthew approached the security booth in a heated state, demanding details about all the security personnel without offering a clear reason. Mr. Phanumeth, witnessing the commotion, approached with the intention of diffusing the situation. In an unexpected turn, Matthew's anger escalated, and he allegedly struck Mr. Phanumeth, causing the elderly man to fall to the ground. Onlookers quickly rushed to the scene to assist the victim and called the local authorities. Residents of the estate are both shocked and concerned. "Matthew's temper has always been an issue," one neighbour said on the condition of anonymity. "But no one expected it to come to this." Police have yet to formally charge Matthew, though investigations continue. He has been requested to remain available for questioning. Mr. Phanumeth, meanwhile, was taken to a nearby hospital where he received treatment for his injuries. He is currently recovering at home. The incident has sparked a broader conversation about safety and conflict resolution within the community. Village leaders have called for an urgent meeting to discuss measures to ensure such incidents do not recur. Residents hope for a swift resolution to this disturbing episode, seeking to restore peace and normalcy in their once-tranquil neighbourhood. -- 2024-06-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Songkhla pushes for cruise terminal to boost tourism by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Songkhla Tourism Association is calling for government intervention to boost tourism by constructing a cruise ship terminal and introducing direct flights from Chinese cities to Hat Yai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328837-songkhla-pushes-for-cruise-terminal-to-boost-tourism/

The Songkhla Tourism Association is calling for government intervention to boost tourism by constructing a cruise ship terminal and introducing direct flights from Chinese cities to Hat Yai. President of the Songkhla Tourism Promotion Association Songchai Mungprasithichai announced plans to seek government support for direct flights to Hat Yai, proposing routes such as Kunming-Hat Yai to attract more Chinese tourists to the province. The association is also advocating for greater investment in nautical transportation, including a cruise terminal in the Gulf of Thailand. This terminal aims to alleviate road congestion along the Thai-Malaysian border between Sadao district and Bukit Kayu Hitam in Malaysia, while also promoting tourism growth in Songkhla and neighbouring regions like Koh Samui, Krabi, and Phuket. “As cruises to Koh Samui in Surat Thani need to pass the Gulf of Thailand in Songkhla, investing in a cruise terminal will benefit Songkhla’s tourism business as most foreign visitors on cruises have high purchasing power.” Local businesses are eager for alternative transport options and a wider range of international tourists visiting the area. The initiative aims to safeguard the tourism sector in Songkhla, particularly Hat Yai, from potential downturns as visitor numbers from Malaysia and Singapore have declined during recent rainy seasons. In Phatthalung province, Kwanjai Klabsuksai, owner of Suan Phai Kwanjai Market in Khuan Khanun district, noted that most foreign clients visiting her bamboo garden agrotourism site are Malaysian. Her bamboo plantation sees at least nine buses or 10 vans daily, excluding private cars. Malaysians represent the largest proportion of foreign visitors to Phatthalung, accounting for at least 80% of the total, followed by European and Chinese tourists. However, Jarun Kaewjeesub, president of the Phatthalung Tourism Association, pointed out that cars with foreign licence plates, especially Malaysian tour buses, are still restricted from travelling beyond Songkhla due to visa regulations. This issue persists despite a petition submitted to the government in 2014. The Prime Minister’s Permanent Secretary Office had previously responded to Songkhla authorities’ request to allow Malaysian tour buses to travel to 14 southern provinces, but no regulations were enacted, reported Bangkok Post. That effort was paused as Malaysia is currently drafting a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on similar matters with Thai authorities. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-06-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Six Arrested in Illegal Gambling Crackdown with Cambodian Links Picture courtesy: Cyber police Facebook page In a high-stakes operation, authorities have arrested six suspects tied to two illegal gambling websites linked to a Cambodian criminal organisation. The sting highlights the growing efforts to tackle international online gambling rings. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328835-six-arrested-in-illegal-gambling-crackdown-with-cambodian-links/

In a high-stakes operation, authorities have arrested six suspects tied to two illegal gambling websites linked to a Cambodian criminal organisation. The sting highlights the growing efforts to tackle international online gambling rings. The Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), headed by Police Lieutenant General Worawat Watnakhonbancha, led the investigation into the websites mm.safa555.com and safa55game.com. These sites, attracting around 10,000 members each, were estimated to handle transactions worth approximately 10 million baht monthly. Upon gathering substantial evidence, the CCIB sought arrest warrants for 12 individuals from the Criminal Court. Raids carried out on Saturday at four locations in Lopburi and Nonthaburi led to the apprehension of six key suspects. The suspects—Thienchai (34), Wechpisit (26), Chitrapat (27), Thitapa (27), and Chaturaphat (27)—were arrested at a luxury house in Nonthaburi, all believed to manage the gambling operations. Another suspect, Yuranan (36), was detained in Lopburi’s Phatthana Nikhom district, where he oversaw local bets. Authorities seized assets worth over 60 million baht during the raids. Confiscated items included five computers, six firearms with 184 rounds of ammunition, four cars, various foreign currencies amounting to 480,000 baht, 5.67 million baht in cash, gold bars, jewellery worth over 3 million baht, 29 branded bags, six luxury watches, title deeds for a house and 12 condominiums, eight bank books, 13 debit cards, and 19 mobile phones. Preliminary investigations by the CCIB indicated that family members and close friends in Lopburi, some connected to local politicians, were complicit in laundering the gambling proceeds. Evidence supporting these links was discovered through money transfer records. Interestingly, part of the laundered funds was funnelled through an Art Toy store in Phatthana Nikhom, dealing in high-end dolls like the limited edition Molly dolls priced between 40,000 and 50,000 baht. Rojsak Naiphongsri, CCIB’s deputy chief, stated that the gambling sites have been operational for over a decade, with the rights acquired from a Cambodian criminal gang. The six arrested individuals face charges including operating illegal gambling websites, promoting gambling, and money laundering. Authorities aim to widen their investigation to uncover any further connections to the illegal gambling network. Photo courtesy of Cyber police Facebook page -- 2024-06-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Over 50% of Bangkok residents give Chadchart a thumbs up by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World Bangkok’s bustling streets are abuzz with approval for Governor Chadchart Sittipunt’s performance, as a recent NIDA Poll reveals. After two years at the helm of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), Chadchart has garnered widespread satisfaction among residents. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328834-over-50-of-bangkok-residents-give-chadchart-a-thumbs-up/

Bangkok’s bustling streets are abuzz with approval for Governor Chadchart Sittipunt’s performance, as a recent NIDA Poll reveals. After two years at the helm of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), Chadchart has garnered widespread satisfaction among residents. In an extensive survey conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA), 2,000 Bangkok residents aged 18 and over shared their views through telephone interviews. The poll, conducted between May 16 and 27, delved into 17 critical areas of urban life, including the cost of living, traffic, homelessness, corruption, tourism, education, healthcare, public transport, and flood management. Overall performance: A solid 50.25% of respondents expressed satisfaction with the BMA’s performance, while 18.45% were very satisfied. However, 20.35% were not satisfied, and 10.60% were very unsatisfied. Tourism: On the tourism front, 43.05% were satisfied, with an additional 20.15% being very satisfied. Conversely, 21.30% were not satisfied, and 8.20% were very unsatisfied. Green areas and parks: Satisfaction with the increase in green spaces stood at 45.75%, with 19.60% very satisfied. Yet, 21.65% were not satisfied, and 10.30% were very unsatisfied. Pavement use: For improvements in pavement use, 46.60% were satisfied, 19.35% very satisfied, while 21.30% were not satisfied, and 11.60% were very unsatisfied. Sports promotion: A total of 44.30% were satisfied with sports promotion efforts, with 17.50% very satisfied. On the flip side, 25.40% were not satisfied, and 12.15% were very unsatisfied. Cleanliness and pollution: Cleanliness and pollution control saw 44.30% satisfaction, with 17.15% very satisfied. Meanwhile, 25.40% were not satisfied, and 12.25% were very unsatisfied. Public services: Regarding city officials’ public service provision, 43.15% were satisfied, 16.90% very satisfied, whereas 22.10% were not satisfied, and 12.40% were very unsatisfied. Flood management: In terms of flood management, 37% were satisfied, 13.95% very satisfied, with 29.05% not satisfied, and 16% very unsatisfied. Public transport: Public transport development satisfaction was at 41.10%, with 13.35% very satisfied, 29.35% not satisfied, and 8.80% very unsatisfied. Healthcare: Finally, healthcare satisfaction stood at 41.25%, with 12.65% very satisfied. However, 28.65% were not satisfied, and 11% very unsatisfied, reported Thai PBS World. With a margin of error of +/-3%, this poll offers a robust snapshot of public opinion, revealing a city largely supportive of its administration’s efforts under Governor Chadchart’s leadership. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Thai PBS World -- 2024-06-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Trembling Thief's Heist Fails at Ratchaburi Gold Shop Picture courtesy: 77kaoded Yesterday evening, a nervous young man attempted a gold heist at a bustling department store in Ratchaburi. His attempt to steal a single gold necklace fell apart due to his shaky nerves, leading to his eventual capture by police. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328832-trembling-thiefs-heist-fails-at-ratchaburi-gold-shop/

Picture courtesy: 77kaoded Yesterday evening, a nervous young man attempted a gold heist at a bustling department store in Ratchaburi. His attempt to steal a single gold necklace fell apart due to his shaky nerves, leading to his eventual capture by police. Lieutenant Pramarn Plathong of Mueang Ratchaburi Police Station reported the incident, which occurred around 6 pm. The suspect, 22-year-old Korawit, entered the gold shop disguised as a potential customer. Wearing a pink hoodie and long jeans, he left his black Yamaha Filano motorcycle parked outside the store. The vehicle's license plate, 2กฆ 7852 Ratchaburi, was a key detail noted by observant witnesses. As Korawit inspected the jewellery, staff members noticed his hands trembling. Becoming increasingly suspicious, they attempted to secure the gold items. Sensing the staff's unease and realising his imminent discovery, Korawit snatched a gold necklace weighing 1 baht and fled the shop. Rachen Piwpeuak, the head security guard, witnessed Korawit's hasty departure. "I tried to stop him, but he managed to escape. I chased him into the forest but only found his hoodie," Rachen recounted. In response, the police quickly organised search teams. The chase eventually led them near a riverbank where they found Korawit hiding. He was arrested and brought back to the scene for a re-enactment of the crime as part of his confession. Korawit was subsequently processed and charged. This incident, now a topic of local conversation, highlights the community's quick thinking and effective police work, transforming a potentially alarming situation into a story of justice served. The store's staff and customers have expressed relief that the thief was swiftly apprehended, marvelling at how a mix of keen observation and quick action can thwart even the most daring crimes. -- 2024-06-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket Beautician Hit by Slingshot in DNA Test Dispute Picture courtesy: LINE In a startling incident in Phuket, a beautician was shot with a slingshot by a van driver enraged over a DNA test dispute with his ex-wife. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328828-phuket-beautician-hit-by-slingshot-in-dna-test-dispute/

Picture courtesy: LINE In a startling incident in Phuket, a beautician was shot with a slingshot by a van driver enraged over a DNA test dispute with his ex-wife. The incident unfolded after the beautician honked at the van driver to avert a collision, triggering the violent response. The confrontation began when a grey van, with the licence plate 30-9306 Phuket, almost hit a motorbike ridden by the beautician, identified only as Pirakan, 24. Social media platform Social Hunter 2022 posted warnings and images, alerting the public to the driver's actions. Pirakan recounted the incident, explaining she had gone out for some errands on 28th May. Noticing the van following her, she moved aside but eventually honked to warn the driver, prompting him to follow her aggressively. Upon reaching her salon, the van driver shot at her with an unknown object, which she later identified as a slingshot. Initially unaware of the injury, she soon discovered a bleeding wound on her stomach. The beauty salon has since provided CCTV footage and the van’s licence plate to the authorities to aid in locating the suspect. The reporters who visited the scene reported that Pirakan sustained a bleeding wound to her stomach but the injury was not severe. Reporters managed to contact the van’s owner, who reported that the driver had surrendered to the Patong Police Station, along with the slingshot and glass marbles used in the assault. However, there was a delay in connecting with the victim, Pirakan, to inform her that the driver had been found. Further details emerged: the driver, frustrated over a dispute regarding a DNA test for his child, had mistakenly thought Pirakan was a relative of his ex-wife and attacked her in a fit of rage. The police continue their investigation into the matter. -- 2024-06-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Unveils Thailand's First Châteaux Wine Exhibition Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin inaugurated Thailand's maiden Châteaux wine exhibition yesterday. Aimed at positioning Thailand as a burgeoning hub for global tourism and fine wines, the event signifies a new chapter in Thai-French cultural and economic ties. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328827-pm-unveils-thailands-first-châteaux-wine-exhibition/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin inaugurated Thailand's maiden Châteaux wine exhibition yesterday. Aimed at positioning Thailand as a burgeoning hub for global tourism and fine wines, the event signifies a new chapter in Thai-French cultural and economic ties. Organised by the prestigious Union des Grands Crus de Bordeaux, the exhibition drew Bordeaux wine producers and aficionados alike. During his opening speech, Thavisin underscored the event's symbolic importance, heralding stronger bilateral relations and shared appreciation for wine's cultural significance. He lauded wine tasting as an art form, highlighting Bordeaux wines as shining examples of this ancient craft. Central to the PM's address was the “IGNITE Thailand” initiative. This ambitious vision seeks to elevate Thailand's status as a prime tourist destination by leveraging its "Soft Power" strengths, including its celebrated cuisine and the unique fusion of Thai food with international wines. He extended an invitation to all to sample the culinary marvels of Thai cuisine, which echo the nation's rich culinary heritage. Significant changes to wine import taxes were announced as part of the initiative. Effective 2024, the wine tax will be halved from 10% to 5%, with import duties on wines from all countries completely eliminated. This move, which benefits major wine exporters like France, is set to make world-class wines more accessible to Thai consumers and promote a robust domestic wine market. The policy shift also entails reduced excise taxes for entertainment venues such as nightclubs, discos, bars, and cocktail lounges. The reduced financial burden aims to encourage more social and cultural events, fostering a vibrant nightlife scene and bolstering local communities. Through these measures, Thailand aims to enhance its international image, making strides in cultural exchange and tourism, all while fortifying its standing as a destination for wine enthusiasts worldwide. -- 2024-06-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Jurassic World 4 Set to Film Across Thailand Thailand is set to host the filming for “Jurassic World 4,” the latest instalment in the iconic Jurassic Park franchise. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328825-jurassic-world-4-set-to-film-across-thailand/