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A brutal brawl erupted on Second Road in South Pattaya in the early hours of Sunday, leaving an 18-year-old Thai boy severely injured. The shocking altercation, which took place around 5 am, saw the teenager, Thanapat Singthom, suffer a deep cut on his neck, a gash above his left eyebrow, and numerous abrasions on his body. Blood-soaked and battered, Thanapat received first aid from rescue workers before being rushed to the hospital for urgent medical care. Warat Rerkpijit, also 18 and a close friend of the victim, reported that a mob of over 50 people attacked Thanapat for reasons that remain unclear. Warat suggested that Thanapat, who was intoxicated at the time, may have been involved in an earlier confrontation, leading to the savage retaliation. Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene involving a group of teenagers on motorcycles. The skirmish escalated when one of the youths, injured, fell from his bike, sparking panic among onlookers. Concerned residents quickly notified emergency services, though the cause for the violence remains a mystery. Pattaya City Police are on the case, meticulously reviewing CCTV footage in a bid to identify and apprehend those responsible. The authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward, emphasising that public assistance is crucial in resolving the incident. This recent violence highlights ongoing safety concerns in the popular tourist destination. Local officials have been grappling with rising incidents of public disorder, and this latest episode underscores the urgent need for increased patrols and community engagement to prevent future occurrences. As Thanapat recovers in hospital, his family and friends are demanding justice and safety measures to protect residents and tourists alike. For now, South Pattaya remains on edge, hoping for swift action from law enforcement to restore peace and security. TOP Picture courtesy: Pattaya Mail -- 2024-05-22

Thaksin Advised Against Exerting Excess Behind-The-Scenes Power Thaksin Shinawatra. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been cautioned to limit his political influence from behind the scenes, as noted by a high-profile former Pheu Thai Party official. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327856-thaksin-advised-against-exerting-excess-behind-the-scenes-power/

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been cautioned to limit his political influence from behind the scenes, as noted by a high-profile former Pheu Thai Party official. This development follows a recent petition filed by 40 senators to impeach Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, whom many believe was quietly supported by Thaksin's sibling, deposed Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra. Former National Security Council secretary-general Paradorn Pattanatabut explained that powerful elements within the government have essentially given Thaksin a lesson in not overextending his hidden political influence. According to Paradorn, Thaksin's overt manoeuvres have reportedly stirred unrest among those currently wielding power. The Senate petition targets Srettha and former Prime Minister’s Office minister Pichit Chuenban—who resigned today—for alleged constitutional breaches. If the Constitutional Court accepts the impeachment petition, the Prime Minister might face immediate suspension while awaiting further rulings. Thaksin’s growing influence is being closely scrutinised, especially as the Office of the Attorney-General is set to decide on a long-postponed lese majeste case involving Thaksin. The case stems from comments he made about the monarchy during a 2015 interview, which could lead to further legal complications. Paradorn disclosed that Thaksin had supposedly agreed to a "secret deal" enabling his return to Thailand from 17 years in self-imposed exile last August. As part of this arrangement, Thaksin avoided imprisonment, receiving medical privileges instead. These actions have consistently fuelled allegations of corruption and preferential treatment. Upon his parole, Thaksin swiftly resumed his shadowy political activities, including hosting prominent international figures and engaging in controversial discussions that have rankled the ruling elites. His so-called ‘secret’ meetings and dealings have prompted the powers-that-be to caution him against overstepping his bounds, forcing Thaksin to reconsider his approach in wielding influence without crossing the delicate political lines in Thailand. Thaksin Shinawatra. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-05-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tragic Tuk Tuk Accident: Israeli Family Declines Legal Action After Young Daughter’s Fatal Fall in Phuket By Goongnang Suksawat PHOTO: Phuket Time News The parents of a five-year-old Israeli girl who tragically died after falling from a Tuk Tuk taxi have decided not to pursue legal action against the driver. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327855-tragic-tuk-tuk-accident-israeli-family-declines-legal-action/

The parents of a five-year-old Israeli girl who tragically died after falling from a Tuk Tuk taxi have decided not to pursue legal action against the driver. Our previous story: The driver of the Tuk Tuk he was compelled to execute an abrupt stop due to a pedestrian crossing the road on Taweewong Road. The parents recounted to the police that their daughter fell from the Tuk Tuk and was then tragically run over by an oncoming vehicle from behind. Now for the update: Lieutenant Colonel Eakkachai Siri of the Phuket Tourist Police clarified to the Phuket Express that after reviewing CCTV footage, it was confirmed that no vehicle from behind was involved in the incident. By Goongnang Suksawat PHOTO: Phuket Time News Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-05-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Sword and Knife Fight Leaves French and Thai Men Injured in Phuket Picture courtesy: Thai Rath A violent altercation involving a sword and knife broke out in Karon, Phuket, last night, leaving both a French and a Thai man with serious injuries. The incident, starting late in the evening, quickly escalated from a heated verbal exchange to a dangerous physical confrontation. Fll story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327854-sword-and-knife-fight-leaves-french-and-thai-men-injured-in-phuket/

A violent altercation involving a sword and knife broke out in Karon, Phuket, last night, leaving both a French and a Thai man with serious injuries. The incident, starting late in the evening, quickly escalated from a heated verbal exchange to a dangerous physical confrontation. According to Karon Police, the episode began around 9:30 PM when Mr Jirasak ‘Mun’ Thonghor, a local resident, allegedly threw a beer bottle into the home of Mr Arnaud Cezard, a 50-year-old French national. The initial provocation led to a furious argument, which soon spiralled out of control. The fight took place near Soi Green Drinking Water, where both men armed themselves—one with a knife and the other with a sword. The police have yet to confirm who wielded which weapon, but the confrontation swiftly turned violent, resulting in both men needing immediate medical attention. Mr Cezard and Mr Thonghor were rushed to separate hospitals following the brawl. While Mr Cezard has since made a recovery, Mr Thonghor remains in a more critical condition and is currently intubated. Colonel Khundet Na Nongkhai informed local media that ongoing investigations are focusing on the origin of the dispute and the specifics of the altercation. Authorities are now scrutinising CCTV footage and collecting witness testimonies to piece together the night's events. The investigation’s outcome will determine whether legal actions will be taken against either or both of the involved parties. TOP Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-05-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Officially Enters Rainy Season File photo The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has announced that the rainy season officially begins on May 20 across the country. This year, meteorologists predict substantial rainfall due to the transition from El Niño to La Niña, bringing with it the potential for heavy downpours, flash floods, and mudslides. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327853-thailand-officially-enters-rainy-season/

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has announced that the rainy season officially begins on May 20 across the country. This year, meteorologists predict substantial rainfall due to the transition from El Niño to La Niña, bringing with it the potential for heavy downpours, flash floods, and mudslides. Director-General of the Meteorological Department, Ms. Kornravee Sitthichivapak, stated that the cumulative conditions—over 60% of upper Thailand receiving continuous heavy rain for at least three days, southwesterly winds at 1.5 km altitude carrying Andaman Sea moisture, and easterly winds at 10 km altitude—have prompted the start of the rainy season. The rainy season in the northern parts of Thailand is set to run until mid-October, whilst the southern regions, especially the eastern coast, will see heavy rainfall continuing until mid-January. The weather phenomena known as El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) plays a crucial role in this year's weather forecast. Currently in a weak El Niño phase, ENSO is transitioning towards a weak La Niña by July. This shift is anticipated to result in improved rainfall distribution, different from the drought-like conditions that were prevalent during El Niño. Interestingly, the TMD forecasts the occurrence of 1-2 tropical cyclones entering Thailand this rainy season, similar to the historical average. Unlike 2023, which saw no tropical cyclones pass through, this year’s cyclones are likely to affect the northeast and northern regions in August and September. This could improve the water situation in those areas compared to last year. Overall, the total amount of rainfall this rainy season is expected to be close to the previous year’s levels, which was 1% above average. A dry spell might occur between mid-June and mid-July, presenting a water shortage risk for non-irrigated areas. However, heavy rain is anticipated in August and September, coinciding with the likely passage of cyclones, thereby increasing the risk of flash floods and mudslides due to accumulated rainwater. Residents are advised to stay updated with weather forecasts and take necessary precautions to safeguard against potential water-related disasters. TOP: File photo -- 2024-05-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya City Officials Subdue Agitated Foreigner By Aim Tanakorn Officers from the Pattaya City Municipality subdued an agitated foreign man who caused quite a stir at a local business on Monday, May 20th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327851-pattaya-city-officials-subdue-agitated-foreigner/

Officers from the Pattaya City Municipality subdued an agitated foreign man who caused quite a stir at a local business on Monday, May 20th. Around noon, Pattaya City’s 1337 hotline received a call from concerned residents reporting a foreign man behaving erratically in front of a local insurance office on Chaiyapruek 1 Road. Pattaya City officials, including municipal officers, peacekeepers, and the Pattaya Mobile Rescue Team, arrived at the scene to investigate. Upon their arrival, they encountered a tall, unidentified foreign man exhibiting signs of agitation and confusion. The man who may have been of German nationality was seen wandering aimlessly around the area shouting and talking to himself, wearing no shirt and causing alarm among local businesses and residents. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-05-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Second passenger on Singapore Airlines flight dies in hospital after Tuesday’s emergency landing incident by News Desk Dozens of ambulances whisk 30 passengers off Singapore Airlines Flight SQ321, which landed at Suvarnabhumi Airport at 3:45 pm on Tuesday afternoon. One deceased passenger was left behind on the damaged plane, while a second died in the hospital at 5:25 pm. A second passenger has died following the emergency landing of a Singapore Airlines flight in Bangkok on Tuesday. Aircraft appears to have suffered serious turbulence over Burma causing it to rapidly drop altitude. This caused chaos and pandemonium in the passenger cabin. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327831-one-dead-30-injured-in-singapore-airlines-emergency-landing/?do=findComment&comment=18931558

British Man Dies After Singapore Airlines Makes Emergency Landing in Bangkok Picture courtesy: Mirror A British man has tragically died after a Singapore Airlines flight encountered severe turbulence and was forced to make an emergency landing at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport Tuesday afternoon. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327831-one-dead-30-injured-in-singapore-airlines-emergency-landing/?do=findComment&comment=18931555

Second passenger on Singapore Airlines flight dies in hospital after Tuesday’s emergency landing incident by News Desk Dozens of ambulances whisk 30 passengers off Singapore Airlines Flight SQ321, which landed at Suvarnabhumi Airport at 3:45 pm on Tuesday afternoon. One deceased passenger was left behind on the damaged plane, while a second died in the hospital at 5:25 pm. A second passenger has died following the emergency landing of a Singapore Airlines flight in Bangkok on Tuesday. Aircraft appears to have suffered serious turbulence over Burma causing it to rapidly drop altitude. This caused chaos and pandemonium in the passenger cabin. A second passenger has died following the emergency landing of a Singapore Airlines flight in Bangkok on Tuesday. The passenger passed away in a Thai hospital over an hour after being transported in a fleet of ambulances from the damaged airplane, where the body of a 73-year-old British man, another passenger, was left after the flight was safely evacuated by authorities. It is understood that Flight SQ321, en route from London to Singapore, hit severe turbulence over Burma. In short, after trying to deal with what now appears to have been an extremely violent incident at high altitude for over 15 minutes, the flight radioed Bangkok and executed the diversion. Afterwards, the plane showed signs of damage or tearing to its wing after landing at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Samut Prakan. Thailand’s Minister of Transport, on Tuesday evening, said that everything was being done to assist traumatised passengers off a Singapore Airlines flight which made an emergency landing earlier in the afternoon. Full story: Thai Examiner.com 2024-05-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 22 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1327849-thailand-live-wednesday-22-may-2024/

British Man Dies After Singapore Airlines Makes Emergency Landing in Bangkok Picture courtesy: Mirror A British man has tragically died after a Singapore Airlines flight encountered severe turbulence and was forced to make an emergency landing at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport Tuesday afternoon. The incident occurred on flight SQ321, a Boeing 777-300ER, travelling from London to Singapore. As the aircraft flew through Thai airspace, it was hit by intense turbulence. According to Mr. Kittiphong Kittikachorn, Suvarnabhumi Airport’s general manager, the pilot requested an emergency landing and touched down safely at 3.50 p.m. Upon landing, airport authorities quickly implemented their emergency response plan. Medical teams were dispatched to the aircraft to assess the situation. Unfortunately, a 73-year-old British passenger was found unresponsive and was later confirmed dead, with initial reports suggesting a heart attack as the cause. A detailed autopsy will be conducted to confirm this. The turbulence left many others injured. Reports indicate that seven passengers suffered critical injuries, with an additional 23 sustaining moderate injuries. Among the crew, nine members were moderately injured, and 16 experienced minor injuries. Fourteen individuals were held in a lounge area, while the more seriously injured were transported to Samitivej Hospital for treatment. To assist stranded passengers, another aircraft is being dispatched from Singapore’s Changi Airport, expected to arrive between 9.45 and 10 p.m. to ferry approximately 200 passengers to their original destination. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand is questioning the pilot to determine the exact cause of the emergency. Preliminary findings suggest the aircraft encountered an air pocket, resulting in the severe turbulence that led to the crisis. -- 2024-05-22 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

A Singapore Airlines flight had to make a sudden landing at Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok due to harsh weather; sadly, one passenger died and 30 others got injured. The air traffic control team at the airport got an emergency signal from the London-Singapore flight at 4 pm on May 21, as per Thai PBS. One dead, 30 injured in Singapore Airlines emergency landing Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327831-one-dead-30-injured-in-singapore-airlines-emergency-landing/ Picture courtesy: TNA-MCOT

“Labubu” Tattoo for Wealth Gains Goes Viral BANGKOK, May 21 (TNA) – The “Labubu” craze shows no signs of slowing down in the art toy world, with prices continuing to soar. It has now even entered the magic tattoo realm, following a viral Labubu yantra tattoo meant to attract wealth. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327787-“labubu”-tattoo-for-wealth-gains-goes-viral/

BANGKOK, May 21 (TNA) – The “Labubu” craze shows no signs of slowing down in the art toy world, with prices continuing to soar. It has now even entered the magic tattoo realm, following a viral Labubu yantra tattoo meant to attract wealth. A TikTok user shared an image of a Labubu yantra tattoo with inscriptions on a woman's arm. After posting it on social media, it sparked widespread discussion and debate online. Master Am Sripromyan and Master Seeharach Muanyan, the owners of the post, revealed that they have been tattooing yantras for over 20 years with thousands of Thai and foreign customers. It started when their daughter liked Labubu, so they had the idea of turning Labubu into a completed yantra design. Seeing others do it online, they incorporated the Labubu shape into a money bag yantra pattern with unique inscriptions based on their teachers' traditional spells, though not specifically about Labubu. Full story: TNA-MCOT 2024-05-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Nun gifts 7 million baht BMW to famous preacher by Samantha Rose Image courtesy of Nun Chen's Facebook page A social media sensation ensued when a nun and her disciples gifted a brand-new luxury BMW car worth 7 million baht to a renowned preacher, Luang Ta Sinsap, at Wat Pa Bo Nam Phra In in Ubon Ratchathani. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327786-nun-gifts-7-million-baht-bmw-to-famous-preacher/

A social media sensation ensued when a nun and her disciples gifted a brand-new luxury BMW car worth 7 million baht to a renowned preacher, Luang Ta Sinsap, at Wat Pa Bo Nam Phra In in Ubon Ratchathani. The Facebook page of Nun Chen, from the same temple, yesterday posted images of a black BMW sedan with red license plates being presented to Luang Ta Sinsap, the head of the forest retreat at Wat Pa Bo Nam Phra In. “We humbly offer our congratulations. Luang Ta frequently travels for religious duties, and [Nun Chen] saw the benefit in offering a valuable and suitable vehicle for his travels.” Nun Chen and her disciples pooled their resources to purchase a BMW 750e for Luang Ta Sinsap. The car will aid him in his travels to promote the virtues of Buddhism. Many devotees attended the event to witness the offering and to express their good wishes. The BMW sedan, with Bangkok license plates, costs approximately 7 million baht brand new. Numerous disciples were present to witness and celebrate the event, expressing their joy and appreciation in great numbers. The renowned preacher replied with a short message on his Facebook page to express his gratitude for the expensive gift that he had received from his most loyal followers. “The students choose the teacher, the teacher does not choose his students” Luang Ta Sinsap, whose monastic name is Jarandhammo, is the head of the forest retreat at Wat Pa Bo Nam Phra In in Ubon Ratchathani. Also known as Phra Sin Khit, he has gained considerable fame on social media for his unique preaching style. He uses simple, vernacular language and incorporates humour into his sermons, making them enjoyable and accessible to listeners. Additionally, he often integrates contemporary social issues with Buddhist teachings, making the Dharma relevant and appealing to modern audiences. by Samantha Rose Image courtesy of Nun Chen's Facebook page Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok holds five-day Pride fest to boost LGBTQ+ tourism Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand is gearing up to host a five-day Pride event in Bangkok, aiming to establish itself as Asia’s rainbow capital. This event, organised by the government alongside private and civil sectors, will feature a series of activities running from May 31 to June 4 under the theme Celebration of Love. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327778-bangkok-holds-five-day-pride-fest-to-boost-lgbtq-tourism/

Thailand is gearing up to host a five-day Pride event in Bangkok, aiming to establish itself as Asia’s rainbow capital. This event, organised by the government alongside private and civil sectors, will feature a series of activities running from May 31 to June 4 under the theme Celebration of Love. Ann Chumaporn, founder and president of the Bangkok Pride Parade, revealed that the festivities include a parade, concerts, public activities, and the Bangkok Pride Forum. She emphasised that the extended duration of this year’s event is intended to demonstrate Thailand’s capability to host major events like the 2025 Inter Pride Conference and the 2030 World Pride Parade. “The reason we’re hosting [the event] over five days is to showcase Thailand’s ability to host bigger events, like the 2025 Inter Pride Conference and the 2030 World Pride parade.” The event will also celebrate Thailand’s push to become the first country in Southeast Asia to legalise same-sex unions while raising awareness of other issues affecting LGBTQ+ and other marginalised individuals and communities. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has confirmed his participation in the Pride parade, scheduled for June 1 from 3pm to 6pm. The parade will start at the National Stadium and conclude at the Ratchaprasong intersection. In light of a recent alert from the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation regarding a potential attack on LGBTQ+ individuals during Pride month celebrations, Chumaporn assured that security measures are a top priority. “The organisers have always placed a lot of emphasis on security, as LGBTQ+ individuals often become a target of hate, especially in Asia.” The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) will collaborate with the Royal Thai Police to ensure the event’s safety. Last year, around 100,000 people participated in the event. This year, organisers expect at least 200,000 attendees. Thapanee Kiatphaiboon, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), highlighted the significant economic contribution of LGBTQ+ travellers, noting they spend 40 times more than the average tourist. This year, pride events will be held in over 30 cities across Thailand, including Chiang Mai and Koh Samui in Surat Thani. “However, in order to be a Pride destination, all of the needs of LGBTQ+ individuals must be met. We’d like to be one of the supporters of the community.” Tourism and Sports Minister Sermsak Pongpanich, speaking at a recent seminar, stressed that LGBTQ rights extend beyond legal and regulatory amendments, encompassing improved accessibility to public resources and services, reported Bangkok Post. “Not only will the Pride celebration help the government meet its target of generating 3.5 trillion baht in tourism-related revenue in 2024, it will help further cement Thailand’s international image as a fair, inclusive and progressive country. “Our government sees LGBTQ individuals not as a burden but as an important force that could help Thailand advance in all aspects of life.” Sermsak confirmed that ministry officials will join the parade to show their support for the LGBTQ+ communities. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Family Distress: Search for missing 'Nong Noon', last contact Switzerland Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Today, reports from sources and the popular Facebook page Drama-addict have revealed that a family is urgently searching for their missing member, "Nong Noon," who has been out of contact for 22 days. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327775-thai-family-distress-search-for-missing-nong-noon-last-contact-switzerland/

Today, reports from sources and the popular Facebook page Drama-addict have revealed that a family is urgently searching for their missing member, "Nong Noon," who has been out of contact for 22 days. Nong Noon travelled to Switzerland last month with her foreign boyfriend, who holds an American passport. Her last social media post was dated April 26, 2024, after which all communication ceased. This has caused great concern for her family, particularly as Noon has a pre-existing medical condition that requires regular care. Her close sibling, using the Facebook account "Fon'mama Dumbbell," posted a message two days ago seeking help. They reported that their sister has gone missing while travelling with her foreign boyfriend, and they have had no news from her since then. The family's distress has prompted them to appeal to the public for any information regarding Noon's whereabouts. Most recently, the family has reported Noon's disappearance to the Swiss authorities. It has been confirmed that the most recent photo of her was taken in Brig. Currently, officials are following standard procedures to gather more information. The family's worry stems from Noon's health condition and the lack of contact since April 26th. They hope new information will emerge soon. Thanks are extended to the Facebook pages Drama-addict and Fon'mama Dumbbell for the community's support and suggestions in helping to locate Nong Noon. The family eagerly awaits good news from Switzerland. Any further developments will be reported promptly. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-05-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe