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Italian Man Fined After Lewd Act on a Pattaya Beach, Claims Medical Condition A female journalist on a leisure visit to Pattaya Beach was left shaken after witnessing an elderly Italian man allegedly performing an obscene act in public. The man was later arrested and fined, though he claimed his actions were due to a medical condition. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354033-italian-man-fined-after-lewd-act-on-a-pattaya-beach-claims-medical-condition/

Ex-Police Chief "Joe Ferrari" Commits Suicide in Thai Prison File photo courtesy of Thai Rath Former Nakhon Sawan Police Chief, Thitisan Utthanaphon, known as "Joe Ferrari" due to his lavish lifestyle, has died by suicide in prison. His family remains sceptical, pending a detailed autopsy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353955-ex-police-chief-joe-ferrari-commits-suicide-in-thai-prison/

File photo courtesy of Thai Rath Former Nakhon Sawan Police Chief, Thitisan Utthanaphon, known as "Joe Ferrari" due to his lavish lifestyle, has died by suicide in prison. His family remains sceptical, pending a detailed autopsy. In a tragic development on the evening of 7th March, Thitisan Utthanaphon was found hanged in cell number 50, located in zone 5 of Klong Prem Central Prison, Bangkok. The incident was reported just before midnight and prompted an urgent investigation by local police and prison officials. Thitisan, widely known as "Joe Ferrari," gained notoriety after being convicted in a case involving the suffocation of a suspect using a black plastic bag. Initially sentenced to death, his penalty was later commuted to life imprisonment. Despite the circumstances surrounding Thitisan's demise, his family's suspicions have not been fully allayed. They are awaiting the results of a comprehensive autopsy to clarify the cause of death. As the investigation unfolds, further updates are anticipated, reported Daily News. -- 2025-03-08

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath In a decisive move, the police disciplinary committee has voted to dismiss Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakphan, famously known as 'Big Joke', in connection with allegations linking him to online gambling operations. Surachate, who previously held the position of deputy national police chief, faces accusations tied to his alleged involvement with gambling websites, a serious charge within the Thai law enforcement community. The decision, reached unanimously during a meeting chaired by acting Pol. Gen. Kraiboon Suadsong, acting in place of Pol. Gen. Thatchai Pitaneelabut, now awaits the National Police Chief, Pol. Gen. Kittirat Panphet, to ratify the dismissal. This action, dictated by the National Police Act 2022, involves revoking Surachate's position without the benefits of a bonus or pension, marking a severe penalty for those in breach of their duties. Surachate's dismissal follows serious disciplinary charges which, under the stipulations of the National Police Act, provide options of either layoff or outright dismissal. Although the committee has decided on the latter, the process includes recommendation submission to the National Police Chief for final approval. Despite this development, Surachate holds the right to appeal the disciplinary action. He may first take his case to the Police Ethics Protection Committee. Should the committee maintain the punishment, his last recourse lies with the Supreme Administrative Court, whose ruling will ultimately be binding. The allegations stem from Surachate's alleged connections with the Minnie online gambling network. The case took an interesting turn as the National Anti-Corruption Commission assumed control of the investigation, bypassing the usual police routes via the Anti-Corruption Division. Moreover, additional accusations have emerged from Tao Poon police station regarding his suspected involvement in the BNK Master online gambling network, further complicating his situation. While the implications of these cases are still unfolding, the controversy surrounding 'Big Joke' has captivated public attention, highlighting the Thai police force's internal challenges in addressing corruption. With the case reaching an administrative pinnacle, both the force and public await further developments, anticipating a detailed inquiry by the National Anti-Corruption Commission alongside any forthcoming appeals by Surachate. As this situation plays out in the public arena, it underscores the broader narrative of accountability and transparency within police ranks, with the outcome holding potential ramifications for law enforcement integrity in Thailand, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-03-08

Picture courtesy of Paxes Travellers in Thailandhttps://aseannow.com/forum/18-thailand-news/ can expect air ticket prices to remain elevated this year, despite hopes for more affordable travel. Key factors among major airlines—including airport fees, ground handling charges, and an ongoing supply chain disruption—are driving a steady or slightly increasing airfare trend. Asia Aviation, which holds a majority stake in Thai AirAsia, noted that the airline saw a surge in revenue due to higher airfares in 2024, totaling 49.4 billion baht from sales and services—a 20% increase from the previous year. The airline reports that costs tied to airport operations and strong public demand for travel are impacting ticket pricing. Thai AirAsia’s CEO, Santisuk Klongchaiya, highlighted that fares could potentially increase by up to 10% this year. In 2023, Thai AirAsia's average fare rose by 10% to 1,967 baht, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 33%. The airline recorded a core operating profit of over 3 billion baht, marking its first positive return since COVID-19, with 20.8 million passengers onboard and a 91% load factor. Looking ahead, Thai AirAsia aims to carry 23-24 million passengers at a 90% load factor in 2024, anticipating 15% revenue growth from additional fleet capacity and favourable fare conditions. Similarly, Bangkok Airways reported a 19.8% growth in revenue last year, reaching 26 billion baht, driven chiefly by the airline division. Their average airfare increased by 11.5% to 4,189 baht. President Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth pointed to improved passenger revenue and associated business success for an operating profit of 5.4 billion baht, marking a 79% rise. Despite difficulties in aircraft acquisition, Bangkok Airways targets 4.7 million passengers this year, an increase of 9% over the previous year. However, it foresees a slower seat capacity growth rate of 8%, with plans to maintain average fares around 4,200 baht while boosting load factors slightly to 82%. Thai Lion Air echoes this sentiment, forecasting stable airfare levels similar to 2024. The airline plans to focus on more promising routes, including flights from Bangkok to Nagoya via Taipei, as well as direct Bangkok to Bali services. As airlines navigate these challenges, travellers can anticipate continued premium pricing, reflecting both operational costs and persistent demand, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-08

Picture courtesy of Wikipedia In a determined effort to curb the illegal trade of e-cigarettes and laughing gas in Thailand, the Royal Thai Police arrested 693 individuals over a high-intensity seven-day operation. These arrests, part of a crackdown running from February 26 to March 4, resulted in the seizure of contraband valued at over 42 million baht. Deputy police chief, Pol Gen Prachuap Wongsuk, led this initiative and shared the outcomes during a press conference. The operation targeted e-cigarettes, which are banned in Thailand, along with laughing gas—known scientifically as nitrous oxide. Though nitrous oxide is legally used in medical settings for its anaesthetic properties, it is frequently misappropriated for its psychoactive effects. Across the nation, police successfully executed 669 cases within the week, capturing 693 suspects. Among the seizures, authorities confiscated 454,958 e-cigarettes with an estimated street value of approximately 41.91 million baht. Additionally, they seized 2,334 tubes of laughing gas valued at around 100,000 baht. Of those arrested, significant attention was given to three individuals identified as major distributors, while the rest were minor dealers. Notably, 12 arrests occurred in tourist-heavy areas, six near educational institutions, and three specifically involved in the trade of laughing gas. This initiative highlights the ongoing efforts of the Royal Thai Police in reinforcing the country’s public safety laws, particularly concerning substances with potential for misuse. The operation not only underscores the legal constraints surrounding e-cigarettes and nitrous oxide in Thailand but also reflects the broader challenge that law enforcement faces in monitoring and dismantling networks dealing in illicit substances. As the authorities press on with their commitment to eliminate illegal substance distribution, both citizens and visitors are reminded to remain vigilant and adhere to Thailand's regulations regarding prohibited products. This operation serves as both a cautionary tale and a warning to those considering involvement in illegal trade, as the police ramp up their efforts to ensure the welfare and safety of the community, reported The Nation. -- 2025-03-08

Picture courtesy of Thai Rath In a stark rebuttal to Thailand's narrative, the United States has disclosed its continuous efforts to prevent Uyghur deportation to China, including offers to resettle them in third-party countries. This clarification comes amid controversy over the repatriation of 40 Uyghurs who spent 11 years in Thai detention. A US State Department representative stated that the US had persistently proposed resettlement solutions for the Uyghurs, involving various countries, including possible resettlement within the United States. The recent return of the Uyghurs to China has sparked international criticism. Global human rights groups, as well as numerous nations, argue that the returnees risk persecution and even death in China. In response, the Thai government maintained that the Uyghurs had voluntarily chosen to return to Xinjiang, asserting their safety under Chinese assurances. Thai officials also claimed there were no viable resettlement offers from other countries. Russ Jalichandra, Thailand's vice minister for foreign affairs, labelled the third-country offers as "unrealistic," expressing concerns about potential repercussions from China that might affect Thailand's economy. Hence, they justified sending the Uyghurs back to China as an optimal solution, despite widespread dissent. The 40 Uyghurs, having escaped state suppression aimed at their ethnic group in Xinjiang, were discreetly moved from a Bangkok detention centre last week, sparking local and international outcry. China, for its part, denies allegations of mistreatment, asserting its Xinjiang policies solely focus on fostering economic growth and eradicating extremism, while dismissing external criticisms of this issue as interference in domestic matters, reportedn Thai PBS. -- 2025-03-08

Picture courtesy of Facebook Stay in Thailand In a bid to prevent escalating tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has urged the public to refrain from sharing video clips that might portray Cambodia in a negative light. This appeal comes amidst rising concerns over the potential for these videos to fuel misunderstandings and possibly lead to war between the two nations. The situation comes at a time when the Royal Thai Army is conducting routine military exercises near the border—a practice Army Chief Gen. Pana Klaewplodthuk insists is part of regular defence preparations and should not be misconstrued as a mobilisation of troops. "There is no movement beyond the ordinary; just a commitment to safeguarding Thai sovereignty," he affirmed. He further stressed that dialogues between the two nations remain ongoing to ensure peace along the shared border. Phumtham publicly called for restraint, emphasizing that Thailand seeks amiable relations with its neighbours through discourse rather than aggression. He pointed out that disinformation and provocative actions could incite unnecessary discord. Notably, he criticised a political leader’s intention to organise activities near the historically contentious Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple, stating that such actions could breach bilateral agreements. As Thailand continues its military exercises, Lt. Gen. Boonsin Phadklang, commander of the 2nd Army Region, assessed the combat readiness of the 103rd Artillery Battalion. In his address, he stressed the importance of readiness among troops, highlighting the need for preparedness in both personnel and equipment. Troops have been advised to stand by for immediate deployment should the situation necessitate it. The historical schism between Thailand and Cambodia over border issues adds a layer of complexity to the current situation. Although both countries have at times found themselves at odds over territorial claims and monuments, diplomatic efforts continue to play a crucial role in resolving misunderstandings. Such conciliatory dialogues are paramount in avoiding potential confrontations. As tensions simmer, both nations are urged to balance military preparedness with diplomatic conversations, endeavouring to dispel misunderstandings rather than deepen divisions. In Thailand, the public is encouraged to remain cautious about the information they circulate, promoting facts over speculation in the interest of regional stability. The cost of these diplomatic and military efforts is significant, but they are crucial investments for sustaining peace. In this vein, the regional community looks towards both nations to exemplify responsibility and restraint in easing tensions and paving the way for lasting amity, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-03-08

Thai Public Advised Against Sharing Anti-Cambodia Videos Picture courtesy of Facebook Stay in Thailand In a bid to prevent escalating tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has urged the public to refrain from sharing video clips that might portray Cambodia in a negative light. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353945-thai-public-advised-against-sharing-anti-cambodia-videos/

U.S. Rejects Thai Claims on Lack of Uyghur Resettlement Offers Picture courtesy of Thai Rath In a stark rebuttal to Thailand's narrative, the United States has disclosed its continuous efforts to prevent Uyghur deportation to China, including offers to resettle them in third-party countries. This clarification comes amid controversy over the repatriation of 40 Uyghurs who spent 11 years in Thai detention. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353937-us-rejects-thai-claims-on-lack-of-uyghur-resettlement-offers/

Crackdown on Illegal E-cigarettes and Laughing Gas Leads to 693 Arrests Picture courtesy of Wikipedia In a determined effort to curb the illegal trade of e-cigarettes and laughing gas in Thailand, the Royal Thai Police arrested 693 individuals over a high-intensity seven-day operation. These arrests, part of a crackdown running from February 26 to March 4, resulted in the seizure of contraband valued at over 42 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353935-crackdown-on-illegal-e-cigarettes-and-laughing-gas-leads-to-693-arrests/

High Airfares in Thailand Set to Stay as Demand Stays High Picture courtesy of Paxes Travellers in Thailand can expect air ticket prices to remain elevated this year, despite hopes for more affordable travel. Key factors among major airlines—including airport fees, ground handling charges, and an ongoing supply chain disruption—are driving a steady or slightly increasing airfare trend. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353929-high-airfares-in-thailand-set-to-stay-as-demand-stays-high/

Big Joke' Dismissed by Police Panel Over Gambling Allegations Picture courtesy of Siam Rath In a decisive move, the police disciplinary committee has voted to dismiss Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakphan, famously known as 'Big Joke', in connection with allegations linking him to online gambling operations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353925-big-joke-dismissed-by-police-panel-over-gambling-allegations/

Thai Airways Ban Power Bank Charging on Flights from March 1 Photo courtesy of EasyACC In response to a recent fire incident aboard a Korean Air flight, airlines worldwide, including Thai Airways, are prohibiting the usage and charging of power banks during flights starting March 1. This decision follows an explosion linked to a faulty power bank that sparked significant safety concerns. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353892-thai-airways-ban-power-bank-charging-on-flights-from-march-1/

Turkish Man Arrested in Phuket for Illegal Cannabis Sales Photo via Facebook/ ตะลอนข่าวภูเก็ต Phuket authorities detained a 33-year-old Turkish man for illicit cannabis sales in Patong. The arrest, made by Patong police on March 6 outside the Weed Kebab store on Bangla Road, revealed the man distributing cannabis without the necessary permits. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353895-turkish-man-arrested-in-phuket-for-illegal-cannabis-sales/

Israeli Tourists and Transgender Group Clash on Phuket's Bangla Road - video Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Phuket's bustling Bangla Road witnessed a skirmish involving two Israeli tourists and a group of transgender women, resulting in injuries on both sides. The altercation, captured on video and shared widely, erupted on March 5 in the nightlife hotspot. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353897-israeli-tourists-and-transgender-group-clash-on-phukets-bangla-road-video/

to contiue: Thailand Live Saturday 8 March 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1353891-thailand-live-saturday-8-march-2025/

Foreigner Caught on CCTV in Phuket Laundrette Theft Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ In the bustling neighbourhood of Kathu, Phuket, a laundrette became the unlikely locus of a crime that’s captured local attention this week. A man, suspected to be a foreign national, was caught on CCTV pilfering clothes from a 24-hour laundry facility Monday night. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353849-foreigner-caught-on-cctv-in-phuket-laundrette-theft/

Thailand Faces Trade Challenges Amid Trump's Tariff Strategy Picture courtesy of Thai PBS In the face of rising trade tensions spurred by former President Donald Trump's tariff policies, Thailand has been sparked into action to safeguard its economic interests. With the United States poised to introduce new tariffs, Thailand, boasting a significant trade surplus with the US, finds itself in a precarious position requiring prompt strategic manoeuvring. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353851-thailand-faces-trade-challenges-amid-trumps-tariff-strategy/

Picture courtesy of Thai PBS In the face of rising trade tensions spurred by former President Donald Trump's tariff policies, Thailand has been sparked into action to safeguard its economic interests. With the United States poised to introduce new tariffs, Thailand, boasting a significant trade surplus with the US, finds itself in a precarious position requiring prompt strategic manoeuvring. The key concern centres on Thailand's trade surplus with the US, which stood impressively at approximately THB 1 trillion in 2023, with forecasts suggesting this could rise to THB 1.6 trillion in 2024. The nation has jumped to the 11th position in countries with the highest US trade surplus—a crucial factor making Thai exports vulnerable to heightened tariffs under the Trump doctrine. Leading voices in Thailand's economic landscape, including Sanan Angubolkul of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, advocate for the government to assemble a dedicated task force. This team would focus explicitly on navigating and mitigating the impacts of impending tariff hikes. Such tariffs, Sanan argues, could pressure key sectors such as electronics, electrical appliances, automotive, and agriculture. Additional repercussions anticipated from Trump's trade agenda include potential surplus dumping by other exporting countries onto ASEAN markets. This would intensify competitive pressures on Thai goods both domestically and regionally. Sanan stresses the importance of implementing stringent controls to protect against such unfair trade practices. Pote Aramwattananont, serving as the first vice chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, proposes a dual strategy. On one front, Thailand should ramp up imports of American agricultural, food, and energy products—an approach that could dampen the negative impacts of US trade policies. On the other, increasing emphasis and investment in the service sectors like banking, insurance, and digital services could offset some of the trade imbalances with the US. In reflecting on the broader economic dynamics, Pote suggests viewing Trump's policies as a realignment opportunity. Thailand, he notes, should position itself strategically to leverage the evolving global trade landscape for growth and advantage. However, economic projections indicate that these policies could temper Thailand's GDP, potentially contracting it by 0.35%-0.4%, with an adjusted forecast of 2.6%-2.8% growth this year—down from an anticipated 3.5%. In essence, while challenges loom, the Thai government is called upon to solidify its economic stance and seek out opportunities within adversity. Through tactical import adjustments, service sector development, and a proactive response to trade shifts, Thailand aims to navigate and ultimately thrive amidst these international headwinds, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-03-07

Foreigner Caught on CCTV in Phuket Laundrette Theft Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ In the bustling neighbourhood of Kathu, Phuket, a laundrette became the unlikely locus of a crime that’s captured local attention this week. A man, suspected to be a foreign national, was caught on CCTV pilfering clothes from a 24-hour laundry facility Monday night. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353849-foreigner-caught-on-cctv-in-phuket-laundrette-theft/

Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ In the bustling neighbourhood of Kathu, Phuket, a laundrette became the unlikely locus of a crime that’s captured local attention this week. A man, suspected to be a foreign national, was caught on CCTV pilfering clothes from a 24-hour laundry facility Monday night. The incident came to light when a concerned customer, who discovered his garments missing, posted the surveillance video on social media. Hoping to alert fellow patrons, he described how he’d returned to the laundrette at about 11pm to find his clothes vanished. Viewing the CCTV footage revealed a man arriving on a motorcycle, helping himself to various clothing items left by customers before casually departing. This incident, shared widely online, sparked heated debates concerning the suspect's nationality. Many viewers speculated he was foreign, given his appearance and mannerisms. However, some netizens maintained that the man is, in fact, Thai—allegedly notorious in the area for similar misdemeanours at other laundrettes and convenience stores. Such discussions illustrate the challenges in pinpointing responsibility without confirmed identities. According to reports in the Phuket Times, the thief targeted specific high-end brands such as Adidas and Nike, adding another layer to the ongoing conversation about such thefts. This choice of items suggests a potential motive beyond need, possibly indicating resale intentions or personal desires for brand-name apparel. This isn't an isolated case in Phuket. Recent instances highlight a pattern of laundrette thefts, reflecting a peculiar trend in this tourist-heavy locale. February last year, a Thai woman was apprehended for similar thefts from local laundromats, although her motives remained unclear, leaving room for speculation whether these crimes are driven by necessity or opportunity. Moreover, another notable incident in Pattaya last November involved a man stealing women's underwear from a laundrette—an act rooted in personal fetishes rather than financial gain. His actions weren’t unnoticed, as social media helped spotlight his crime, prompting him to return the undergarments with an apology note and a 1,000 Baht gesture to mitigate potential legal repercussions. As the laundrette remains a practical facility for residents and visitors alike, these thefts pose a small yet bothersome problem. Local authorities and businesses may now consider enhancing security measures, such as improved surveillance or perhaps even monitored entry systems, to safeguard against future clothing pilferage. In a location known for its hospitality and holidaymaker allure, these incidents underscore the small yet impactful facets of everyday life, reminding both locals and visitors to exercise caution—a sentiment that resonates across Phuket's vibrant community, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-07

Thais Among 15 Injured in Misguided Bombing in South Korea Photo by Yonhap via AP In a shocking turn of events, two fighter jets mistakenly released eight bombs over a South Korean residential area, resulting in injuries to 15 people, including four Thai nationals. This incident occurred during a joint military exercise between South Korea and the United States in Pocheon, Gyeonggi Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353841-thais-among-15-injured-in-misguided-bombing-in-south-korea/

Photo by Yonhap via AP In a shocking turn of events, two fighter jets mistakenly released eight bombs over a South Korean residential area, resulting in injuries to 15 people, including four Thai nationals. This incident occurred during a joint military exercise between South Korea and the United States in Pocheon, Gyeonggi Province. The mishap unfolded yesterday at around 10 a.m. during the annual Freedom Shield military exercise, meant to hone the defensive capabilities of the South Korean and U.S. forces. The South Korean Air Force confirmed that the bombs, specifically MK-82 models designed for demolishing structures, were unintentionally dropped due to a navigational error. Oh Moung-su, a 65-year-old resident, described the harrowing moment: “A sudden roar from the fighter jet was followed by explosions. When I arrived at the site, several homes were partially destroyed, and people were visibly injured. Debris clouded the air, and water from a damaged pipe added to the chaos.” The devastation left four houses heavily damaged and caused injuries to 15 people. The Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that four of the victims are Thai citizens, with one suffering severe injuries to their hands and arms, while the others sustained minor injuries. The current exchange rate values the potential compensation around 1.3 million Thai Baht for the more seriously injured. In response, the South Korean Air Force issued an apology, committing to compensating the victims and addressing the needs of affected residents. This incident marks the first injury of civilians during the joint drills—a detail that brings heightened scrutiny to the long-established exercises. The error originated from one pilot's incorrect entry of coordinates, which led to the accidental release of four bombs. Alarmingly, a second pilot, following suit, also released another four bombs due to the same mistake. Local residents have long voiced concerns about the dangers posed by these military exercises. Their protests have centred around disturbances and safety risks, fears that have now tragically materialised. According to Reuters, this incident has amplified calls for re-evaluation of the drills in civilian-populated zones. In the wake of this incident, the Royal Thai Embassy in Seoul is keeping in close contact with the Thai victims, ensuring they receive necessary support and care. As investigations continue, it remains to be seen what lasting impact this incident will have on international military collaborations and the safety protocols of future exercises. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between military preparedness and civilian safety, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-07

Thai Government Defends Deportation of 40 Uyghurs to China This photo provided by Thailand's daily web newspaper Prachatai shows a truck with black tape covering the windows leave a detention center in Bangkok, Thailand Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025.(Nuttaphol Meksobhon/Prachatai via AP) In a contentious move, the Thai government has defended its decision to deport 40 Uyghurs to China, arguing that it was the most viable option given the lack of offers from other countries willing to take them in. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353828-thai-government-defends-deportation-of-40-uyghurs-to-china/