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Agriculture Minister Denies Knowledge Amid Swinging Club Scandal Picture courtesy: Amarin TV High-ranking government officials are embroiled in a scandal as a senior member of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives stands accused of having an affair with a married woman from a swingers’ club. The club's founder, a man identified only as 'A', has alleged that the official's actions led to the breakdown of his marriage and family. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328419-agriculture-minister-denies-knowledge-amid-swinging-club-scandal/

High-ranking government officials are embroiled in a scandal as a senior member of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives stands accused of having an affair with a married woman from a swingers’ club. The club's founder, a man identified only as 'A', has alleged that the official's actions led to the breakdown of his marriage and family. 'A' revealed that he personally screens and approves members for the club, which has been hosting gatherings for the past decade. However, problems only arose after the inclusion of the named government official. This individual allegedly violated club rules by forging a close relationship with 'A's wife and lavishing her with expensive gifts, leading to familial discord. 'A' founded the swingers’ club and has stringent regulations, one of which requires him to be present or to participate via video conference whenever his wife engages in club activities. However, due to his demanding schedule, he admitted only occasionally observing his wife and the official during these sessions. The club comprises diverse members including government officials, high-ranking soldiers, police officers, business owners, and individuals involved in illicit activities. Since the scandal broke, all members have left the club for safety reasons. In a revealing interview with ThaiRath, 'A' explained the gravity of the situation, noting that there had never been issues until this specific official joined the group. In an effort to seek justice, 'A' and social media influencer Kantouch “Gun” Pongpaiboonwet submitted a formal complaint against the official at the Ministry of Agriculture’s office on Monday, 27th May. Today, reporters from multiple news agencies sought comments from Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Thamanat Prompow. Thamanat firmly denied any knowledge of the club or the complaint. He also openly admitted to being unfamiliar with the concept of "swinging," even requesting reporters to explain the term to him. The identity of the implicated government official remains undisclosed, and it is yet uncertain whether any consequences will follow. The scandal continues to unfold, with the public eagerly awaiting further developments. Picture courtesy: Amarin TV -- 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Hooked: Foreigner makes waves, takes a dip in fish spa (video) by Petch Petpailin Photo by TikTok/ @dai.yin.see.tatto via Channel 8 A foreign man captured the attention of Thai netizens after a viral video on the TikTok application showed him dipping his head into a fish tank foot spa to cool off on a hot day in the northern province of Chiang Mai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328418-hooked-foreigner-makes-waves-takes-a-dip-in-fish-spa-video/

A foreign man captured the attention of Thai netizens after a viral video on the TikTok application showed him dipping his head into a fish tank foot spa to cool off on a hot day in the northern province of Chiang Mai. A Thai man shared the video on his TikTok account, @dai.yin.see.tatto, yesterday, May 27, with the caption, “When a foreigner comes to Chiang Mai.” The video gained over 1,400 views and numerous comments before being deleted. The video depicted the foreign man immersing his head in a fish tank typically used for foot pedicures and also known as fish spa. A Thai police officer was seen pulling the man out of the thank and questioning his action making him aware the tank was intended for feet, not heads The video sparked a flood of humorous comments from Thai netizens including… “This can cure acne and treat large facial pores.” “Fish spa for the head! Why not?” “Maybe I’m wrong. Not feet, but head.” “He might feel itchy on his head.” “Police should not intervene in the process. He was relaxing!” “He was talking with the fish!” “Could not imagine how many feet dipped in the tank before.” Some netizens speculated that the man might have been too drunk to control himself, while others suggested he was simply too hot to care about the water’s cleanliness. Fish spas are popular among both locals and foreign tourists in Thailand. People dip their feet into the tanks and allow the fish to nibble away dead skin, purportedly resulting in smoother skin. However, many other countries banned it due to health risks and animal cruelty concerns. Health risks include the potential for bacteria and germs to enter the human body through the fish, especially for those with foot wounds. Additionally, the tanks can become a breeding ground for germs after multiple people use them. Animal rights activists also point out that the tanks are not suitable habitats for Garra rufa fish, also known as doctor fish, and that dead skin is not their natural food source. The fish are starving, so they have had to eat dead skin to survive. by Petch Petpailin Photo by TikTok/ @dai.yin.see.tatto via Channel 8 Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Wissanu Returns as Government Advisor Amid Legal Turmoil File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Wissanu Krea-ngam, a former deputy prime minister, has agreed to serve as an advisor to the Secretariat of the Cabinet, Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin confirmed yesterday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328417-wissanu-returns-as-government-advisor-amid-legal-turmoil/

File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Wissanu Krea-ngam, a former deputy prime minister, has agreed to serve as an advisor to the Secretariat of the Cabinet, Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin confirmed yesterday. Wissanu, a renowned legal expert who has served in various Thai governments, most recently stepped down from the Prayut Chan-o-cha administration last year. At that time, he cited poor health, including diabetes and kidney disease, and vowed to retire from politics. However, Srettha approached him recently, and Wissanu has accepted the advisory role. Prime Minister Srettha disclosed that the order for Wissanu's appointment is currently being drafted. "I already met and invited Khun Wissanu to take the position. He is ready to do the job," Srettha told reporters. The move comes amid Srettha’s legal challenges, notably a Constitutional Court case where 40 senators seek to strip him of his ministerial status. The senators argue that Srettha’s appointment of Phichit Chuenban as PM Office Minister violated the Constitution. Phichit, who was sentenced to six months in prison for his involvement in the "snack box" bribery scandal over a decade ago, resigned from his position just before the court agreed to hear the petition on May 23. While Phichit’s fate has been decided, Srettha’s ministerial future remains uncertain. Srettha dismissed claims that bringing Wissanu into the team highlights a lack of legal expertise within his government. He urged the public to await the details of the appointment. Addressing the press, Wissanu stated that his role as an advisor is non-political, exempting him from declaring his assets. He also clarified that he is not the chief legal counsel in Srettha's ongoing court battle. Instead, that responsibility falls on former PM Office Minister Phichit Chuenban. Despite accepting the advisory role, Wissanu emphasized he won't take on any political posts due to his health issues. -- 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Man Appeals for Help Repatriating Overstaying Russian Family Picture courtesy: Wochenblitz A sensitive case in Pattaya has garnered attention as a local apartment owner seeks assistance from Thai authorities to help a Russian man and his two daughters return home. The family, who fled Russia amidst ongoing conflict with Ukraine, overstayed their visas and faced financial difficulties. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328416-thai-man-appeals-for-help-repatriating-overstaying-russian-family/

Picture courtesy: Wochenblitz A sensitive case in Pattaya has garnered attention as a local apartment owner seeks assistance from Thai authorities to help a Russian man and his two daughters return home. The family, who fled Russia amidst ongoing conflict with Ukraine, overstayed their visas and faced financial difficulties. The apartment owner contacted the Chon Buri Provincial Immigration Office, concerned about the wellbeing of the three Russian residents. He pointed out that they could not afford to return to Russia on their own. He called for swift action to repatriate the family, highlighting concerns over the children’s welfare. Over the past year, the apartment owner provided the family with food and financial support, noting their isolation and limited opportunities to go outside. He praised the father’s devotion to his children but worried about the emotional toll and strain leading possibly to self-harm. The Russian man, tearfully explaining to authorities, said he came to Thailand two years ago to avoid conscription into the Russian-Ukrainian conflict, fearing his children would be left alone if he were drafted. Although he sought a safe return for his daughters, financial constraints hindered their journey back. In an emotional plea, he mentioned he was ready to face legal consequences for overstaying his visa, as long as his children could return to Russia safely. Weerachai Tinkamut, an officer from Chon Buri Provincial Immigration Office, supported the family by giving them 2,000 baht in cash. The two girls are now under the care of the Chon Buri Provincial Shelter for Children and Family. Meanwhile, their father was taken to Muang Pattaya Police Station for legal proceedings. After the legal formalities, both the father and children are expected to be deported back to Russia, concluding a poignant chapter in their lives far from home. -- 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 29 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1328414-thailand-live-wednesday-29-may-2024/

Big Thailand visa changes from June 1 5-year visas available for digital nomads, boxers and chefs students The cabinet has approved a number of new visa initiatives aimed at attracting more tourists. This includes visa-free and visa-on-arrival schemes, extended stays for students, and a decrease in mandatory health insurance for retirees. The Foreign Ministry suggested these actions due to the country's significant reliance on tourism, according to government spokesperson, Chai Wacharonke. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328402-big-thailand-visa-changes-from-june-1/ Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

Boy with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Stabs Uncle to Death in Phuket Picture courtesy: Bright TV Late last night, a tragic incident unfolded when a 15-year-old boy with ADHD fatally stabbed his 60-year-old uncle in the Thalang district of Phuket. The horrific event occurred in a rented room where the family lived together. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328341-boy-with-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-adhd-stabs-uncle-to-death-in-phuke/

Late last night, a tragic incident unfolded when a 15-year-old boy with ADHD fatally stabbed his 60-year-old uncle in the Thalang district of Phuket. The horrific event occurred in a rented room where the family lived together. Thalang Police Station officers were called to the scene around 7 PM, where they discovered the victim, Somkiat Chanhom, suffering from multiple stab wounds to his chest. Despite efforts by emergency medical workers from Thalang Hospital to provide first aid and transport him for further treatment, Somkiat succumbed to his injuries en route to the hospital. The alleged attacker, identified only as Yoi, has been reported to struggle with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This condition often manifests in difficulties with concentration and impulsive actions, which may have played a role in the tragedy. Yoi lived in the rented room with six family members, and frequently argued with Somkiat, who was described as a father figure to him. According to Yoi’s grandmother, Or, the altercation began like any other but escalated quickly. Yoi threw his phone in anger, grabbed two knives, and marched towards Somkiat’s bedroom. Or attempted to intervene, begging Yoi to reconsider and asking Somkiat to secure his door. Despite her pleas, Yoi kicked in the door and attacked Somkiat repeatedly. After Or's daughter intervened, Yoi fled the scene but was apprehended shortly thereafter. Or further explained that Somkiat often cared for Yoi but expressed frustration over the boy’s constant phone usage and inactivity. She had planned to take Yoi to the hospital for his worsening aggression and medication non-compliance the following day, but this plan ended in tragedy. Yoi faces charges under Section 290 of the Criminal Law for causing death through assault. Although the standard penalty ranges from three to 15 years in prison, allowances may be made for his age. Picture courtesy: Bright TV -- 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Man fatally stabs friend to death over 20 baht in Chon Buri by Nattapong Westwood Image courtesy of Khaosod A Thai man fatally stabbed his friend in Chon Buri after he refused to lend 20 baht. The tragic incident occurred earlier today, with police receiving a report of a stabbing at 12.30am in Mueang District. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328338-man-fatally-stabs-friend-to-death-over-20-baht-in-chon-buri/

A Thai man fatally stabbed his friend in Chon Buri after he refused to lend 20 baht. The tragic incident occurred earlier today, with police receiving a report of a stabbing at 12.30am in Mueang District. Upon arrival, officers found 43 year old Nirun critically injured with a stab wound to his left collarbone. Despite immediate CPR efforts, he was pronounced dead in the rescue vehicle. The suspect, 45 year old Sarawut later confessed to the crime, citing anger and repeated humiliation as his motives. Police inspected the scene at the house of the victim’s relative, 46 year old Rattana. Evidence of a struggle amid the altercation was clear as bloodstains were found inside the residence. According to Rattana, the conflict began when Sarawut, a close friend of the victim, arrived and asked Nirun for 20 baht. Nirun’s refusal, accompanied by questions regarding the reasoning for the money enraged Sarawut. A physical altercation ensued, during which Sarawut, unable to overpower Nirun, instead drew a knife and stabbed him once before fleeing towards the end of the alley. Sarawut revealed his motives during questioning, citing his previous grievances stemming from Nirun’s habit of belittling him and sharing stories of him begging for money with others. This compounded with Nirun’s refusal to lend him 20 baht, ultimately sparking the fatal confrontation. Following the attack, officers managed to apprehend Sarawut near the New Market in Makham Yong, approximately 5 kilometres from the crime scene. The police have detained Sarawut and charged him with murder. Further investigations are underway to uncover additional details and motives behind the incident, reported Khaosod. by Nattapong Westwood Image courtesy of Khaosod Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Koh Samui Tourism Struggles Amid Infrastructure Challenges Picture courtesy: Royal vacation Efforts to boost tourism in the southern islands of Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan, and Koh Tao are underway as the government tackles pressing issues such as water shortages and illegal businesses. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328336-koh-samui-tourism-struggles-amid-infrastructure-challenges/

Efforts to boost tourism in the southern islands of Koh Samui, Koh Pha Ngan, and Koh Tao are underway as the government tackles pressing issues such as water shortages and illegal businesses. Tourism and Sports Minister Sermsak Pongpanich recently engaged with entrepreneurs from Surat Thani’s Koh Samui and Koh Pha Ngan islands to address the province’s pressing tourism challenges. Koh Samui district Chief Kampanat Klinsaowakon noted a marked improvement in tourism since late last year, with a significant influx of tourists, particularly those arriving by cruise ship. Tourism growth, however, is being stifled by infrastructure problems, including inadequate water supplies, road safety concerns, and traffic congestion due to the increased number of visitors. President of the Koh Samui Tourism Association, Ratchaporn Poolsawadee, pointed out that the island’s infrastructure is struggling to keep pace with the rising number of tourists. He highlights how Koh Samui lacks a cruise ship pier despite over 40 cruise ships scheduled to visit this year. Small boats are currently employed to transfer passengers ashore, creating inconvenience and delays that impede tourism growth. He further underlines the persistent issues of water shortages and power outages that plague business operators, particularly during peak tourist seasons. Koh Pha Ngan faces similar infrastructure woes, with the island also dealing with land ownership disputes and tourist safety concerns, especially during the Full Moon Party events. Ratchaporn adds that many business operators in Koh Samui are still grappling with the economic fallout from the Covid-19 pandemic, advocating for lower interest rates and increased access to credit. Additionally, there are calls for the government to intensify efforts against illegal businesses, promote legitimate land ownership, and address nominee investment issues. The concerted push to resolve these challenges aims to bolster the tourism sector, ensuring sustainable growth and improved visitor experiences in these popular Thai destinations. Picture courtesy: Royal vacation -- 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Police Await Complaint After British Tourists Assaulted Picture courtesy: Pattaya News Three British men faced a brutal attack in Pattaya on Friday, May 24, outside the Helicopter Bar on Soi 6. The incident was sparked by a disputed bar bill. Police say they cannot proceed without an official complaint from the victims. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328333-british-mens-assault-complaint-awaited-by-pattaya-police/

Three British men faced a brutal attack in Pattaya on Friday, May 24, outside the Helicopter Bar on Soi 6. The incident was sparked by a disputed bar bill. Police say they cannot proceed without an official complaint from the victims. The altercation began when a bar hostess informed the men about their outstanding bill. Their refusal to settle the payment led to a confrontation with the bar's security staff. CCTV footage shows that even after the men eventually paid, a violent brawl ensued outside. One of the guards delivered a powerful kick to the head of one man, rendering him unconscious. Despite the severity of the assault, Pattaya police have not detained the security guards involved. Sergeant Major Arthon of the Pattaya City Police Station explained, “We can only pursue a case if a complaint is filed. Efforts to locate the victims are ongoing, and CCTV footage is being reviewed to ascertain their whereabouts.” The guard who delivered the kick expressed regret in a video statement, attributing his actions to the heat of the moment and apologizing for overreacting. Samorn, a bar hostess, revealed that the men had hired sex workers and disputed the charges for these services. She claimed the altercation began when one of the men refused to pay his bill and accused the bar of scamming them. Police Colonel Nawin Thirawit, Superintendent of the Pattaya Police Station, condemned the actions of the security staff, stressing the need for professionalism to protect the city’s reputation. Despite efforts to obtain a comment from Helicopter Bar, owned by British nationals, the establishment has remained silent on the matter. Picture courtesy: Pattaya News -- 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Python stuck in ceiling rescued in Ang Thong home by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Egor Kamelev from pexels.com A large python was discovered stuck in a concrete crevice under the ceiling, with its head hanging down, in a house in Ang Thong. The homeowner quickly contacted rescue services, who used tools to safely extract the snake. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328330-python-stuck-in-ceiling-rescued-in-ang-thong-home/

A large python was discovered stuck in a concrete crevice under the ceiling, with its head hanging down, in a house in Ang Thong. The homeowner quickly contacted rescue services, who used tools to safely extract the snake. The incident is believed to be a sign of good luck, prompting the homeowner to consider using the house number for a lottery ticket. The Ang Thong Rescue Association received a call for help from residents of house number 5/5, Village No. 5, Talat Kluad Subdistrict, Mueang District, Ang Thong Province. The homeowners reported that a python was trapped in a concrete crevice under the ceiling, visible with its head hanging down. Upon receiving the call, Ratha Tapianthong, along with skilled rescue personnel equipped with concrete drilling tools, was dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, the team met with the 58 year old homeowner, who recounted the events of the previous night. She heard unusual noises from under the ceiling and, upon inspection, found the large python with its head protruding but unable to free itself. The following morning, she contacted the rescue team to investigate. Upon inspection, the rescue team confirmed that the python’s body was indeed stuck in the concrete crevice under the ceiling. Using specialized tools, they managed to safely extract the snake. The python measured 2.40 metres in length. Lottery numbers The homeowner and neighbours believe the incident could be a sign of good fortune and intend to use house number, 5/5, Village No. 5, to purchase a lottery ticket with the number 555 in hopes of winning. “It was quite a surprise to find such a large snake stuck in our home, We are relieved that it was safely removed and hope this unusual event brings us some luck.” The rescue team’s swift response and expertise in handling reptiles ensured that the python was unharmed during the extraction process. The team emphasised the importance of contacting professionals when dealing with potentially dangerous wildlife to ensure both human and animal safety. This incident highlights the occasional interaction between humans and wildlife, particularly in areas where natural habitats are close to residential zones. The python, although startling, posed no immediate threat once it was securely handled by the rescue team. Residents expressed their gratitude towards the Ang Thong Rescue Association for their prompt and effective action. The homeowner’s decision to use the house number in the lottery reflects a common cultural belief in Thailand that unusual events can bring good fortune. As the community buzzes with talk of potential lottery winnings, the safe removal of the python remains the focal point of the story. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining vigilance and readiness to call for expert assistance in unexpected situations involving wildlife. The rescue operation was completed successfully, and the python was released back into a safe environment, away from residential areas. The homeowner and her neighbours now look forward to seeing if house number 5/5 will indeed bring them the luck they hope for in the upcoming lottery draw, reported Khaosod. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Egor Kamelev from pexels.com Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Tuesday 28 May 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328325-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-28-may-2024/

The Criminal Court has granted bail to Tantawan, a young activist on hunger strike for several months. This comes 13 days after another activist died from a heart attack related to a hunger strike. Thai Lawyers for Human Rights reported her temporary release after being detained since February. 22 year old Tantawan, 22, was arrested for honking a horn and attempting to overtake a royal motorcade. Immigration officers raided a foreign worker shelter in a four-story building in Soi Ekachai, Bangkok, yesterday. They found the interior dirty and dilapidated and discovered 13 illegal immigrants. The immigrants were sent to a local police station for questioning and to identify those responsible for bringing them into the country. Prime minister Srettha Tavasin announced he is confident that clean energy will make up 50% of Thailand's energy usage by around 2040, he was speaking at the "EARTH JUMP Action" event near Chulalongkorn university in Bangkok. The PM pointed out that most clean energy will most likely come from hydro power in Laos while Thailand also has dams able to generate electricity. Meanwhile the government was encouraging private financial institutions to support clean energy companies, with a view to going public on the Stock Exchange. Around the region: North Korea said its attempt to launch a new military reconnaissance satellite ended in failure yesterday when a newly developed rocket engine exploded. Officials in South Korea and Japan had earlier reported that the launch seemed to have failed. Chinese authorities have ordered hotels in China not to refuse foreign guests in the wake of complaints from travellers. The China Hotel Association will “guide and supervise” the industry to better receive foreign visitors, as well as improve the standards of service. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thundershowers, 33 degrees celsius Bangkok: Cloudy with thundershowers 35 Pattaya: Sunny, partly Cloudy 33. Phuket and the south: Sunny, partly Cloudy 33. Hua Hin: fine and sunny, more cloudy this afternoon 35C AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Indian Man Arrested for Theft in Patong By Goongnang Suksawat Patong - An Indian man was arrested for theft at a shopping mall in Patong on Sunday (May 26th). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328321-indian-man-arrested-for-theft-in-patong/

Patong - An Indian man was arrested for theft at a shopping mall in Patong on Sunday (May 26th). The Patong Police told the Phuket Express that at 9:30 P.M. on the day in question they arrested an Indian man after he was caught by citizens at a shopping mall on the Ratcha Uthit Road in Patong. He was taken to the Patong Police Station to face charges of night theft. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Supplies Bhutan with Locally-Made Armoured Vehicles and Pistols Picture courtesy: Thai PBS News In a key ceremony yesterday, Thailand transferred a significant cache of arms to Bhutan’s police force, solidifying defence ties between the two nations. The delivery, overseen by Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang, included 10 armoured vehicles and 230 pistols, all produced by Thai manufacturers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328320-thailand-supplies-bhutan-with-locally-made-armoured-vehicles-and-pistols/