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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

Chiang Rai Woman Victimised by Neighbour's Creepy CCTV Spying video screenshot: Thai Rath In the northern province of Chiang Rai, Thailand, Pennapha, commonly known as Yui, has found herself the target of constant surveillance and harassment by her male neighbour. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327773-chiang-rai-woman-victimised-by-neighbours-creepy-cctv-spying/

In the northern province of Chiang Rai, Thailand, Pennapha, commonly known as Yui, has found herself the target of constant surveillance and harassment by her male neighbour. This disturbing situation unfolded in Wiang Phang Kham sub-district, where Yui called upon journalists from ThaiRath for help, revealing the harrowing extent of her ordeal. At her home, which she shares with her mother, Yui showed reporters several CCTV cameras aimed directly at her residence, clearly installed by her neighbour. She expressed her distress over not only the invasive surveillance but also the drone flights over her property, odd sounds, and lights intentionally shone into her home. As journalists arrived, the neighbour, detecting them through his cameras, hastily redirected them and even shouted, “I already fixed the issue!” unsettlingly dismissive of his previous actions. To preserve her privacy, Yui resorted to heavy curtains and taping her windows shut. Yet, the fear heightened when her neighbour took to social media, posting footage of his drone invasions with ominous captions like, “Be careful, I can get into your house anytime.” Despite reporting these issues to the local authorities, the man's intrusions momentarily ceased only to resume shortly thereafter. The neighbour also resorted to revving his car engine outside Yui's home, further escalating the harassment. This situation mirrors a recent case involving Mintra “Pare” Cheuwangkam, a well-known Thai internet figure, who endured years of stalking and harassment by a former security guard. Despite multiple arrests, her stalker continued to trouble her upon release, highlighting a troubling pattern in such cases. Yui and her mother are now fervently appealing to the authorities for sustained intervention and effective measures to put an end to their neighbour's distressing behaviour. They hold out hope for a resolution that will afford them the peace and safety they desperately need. TOP video screenshot: Thai Rath -- 2024-05-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

900-year-old Statue Returns to Thailand After Decades in New York Picture courtesy: Thai Rath A 900-year-old statue, smuggled out of Thailand by a notorious art dealer in 1975, has finally been returned home after spending over three decades in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327772-900-year-old-statue-returns-to-thailand-after-decades-in-new-york/

A 900-year-old statue, smuggled out of Thailand by a notorious art dealer in 1975, has finally been returned home after spending over three decades in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The 129-centimetre bronze statue, known as the Golden Boy and believed to depict the Hindu god Shiva, along with a smaller statue of a kneeling woman, touched down at Suvarnabhumi International Airport yesterday. These artefacts were then taken to the National Museum Bangkok, where an official welcoming ceremony will precede their public display. The Metropolitan Museum of Art decided to return these artefacts after confirming their link to Douglas Latchford. In 2019, Latchford was charged for stealing treasures from Southeast Asia. According to evidence, the Golden Boy, crafted over 900 years ago, was smuggled by Latchford from Thailand. Documentation shows the sculpture was discovered in Ban Yang Pongsadao village in Buri Ram’s Lahan Sai district. From 1988 to 2023, the statue was part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection, sparking debates among scholars regarding its identity. While it is traditionally thought to depict Shiva, archaeologist Tanongsak Hanwong believes otherwise. He posits that the Golden Boy is actually a depiction of King Jayavarman VI, the monarch who built the Phimai stone castle in Buriram. Tanongsak, a member of the committee for the repatriation of stolen artefacts, explains that the sculpture’s style is more in line with Phimai stone castle carvings than typical Shiva representations. "The statue resembles carvings from the Phimai stone castle, suggesting it depicts King Jayavarman VI (1080 to 1107 AD) of the Mahidharapura Dynasty, who established the Phimai site as the Khmer Empire’s administrative centre,” he notes. Recent findings support that the Khmer Empire initially flourished along the Khorat Plateau before moving to Siem Reap in Cambodia, contrary to previous beliefs. The Ministry of Culture and the Fine Arts Department plans an official repatriation ceremony this afternoon at Issara Winitchai Throne Hall, Bangkok National Museum. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-05-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian Driver Collides with Motorbike, Leaving One Dead Picture courtesy: CH 7 Last night, a Russian man driving a car in Pattaya caused a severe accident by colliding with a motorcycle, leaving one person dead and one critically injured. The incident occurred on Sukhumvit Road, near the South Pattaya traffic light, as the driver, appearing inebriated, sped down the road. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327767-russian-driver-collides-with-motorbike-leaving-one-dead/

Picture courtesy: CH 7 Last night, a Russian man driving a car in Pattaya caused a severe accident by colliding with a motorcycle, leaving one person dead and one critically injured. The incident occurred on Sukhumvit Road, near the South Pattaya traffic light, as the driver, appearing inebriated, sped down the road. Local rescue services quickly arrived at the scene, finding the car's front end heavily damaged. The driver, a 40-year-old Russian national named Romasco, exhibited signs of intoxication. Nearby, a motorbike lay wrecked, with two severely injured Thai nationals, 28-year-old Mukcharee and Boonpop. Medics provided immediate first aid before rushing both victims to a nearby hospital, reported Thai CH 7. Witnesses at the scene, including 40-year-old Somsak, described seeing the foreign driver speeding erratically before slamming into the motorbike from behind. The collision was so forceful that it sent the motorbike riders flying, causing severe injuries. Somsak quickly contacted local rescue services, who arrived within minutes. Local police also responded, documenting the accident scene and gathering evidence, including photos and witness statements. They intend to review nearby CCTV footage to piece together a complete account of the events leading up to the crash. An alcohol test is pending to determine the driver’s level of intoxication at the time of the accident. Tragically, Mukcharee succumbed to her injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital, while Boonpop remains in critical condition. Authorities are coordinating with the deceased's family to prepare for her funeral rites. This incident marks another grim reminder of the dangers posed by driving under the influence, with authorities urging all motorists to exercise caution and responsibility on the roads. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. -- 2024-05-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai PM Explores Key Investments in Milan AP Photo/Luca Bruno, Pool Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has visited Milan, Italy, engaging with major investors from Intesa Sanpaolo to discuss collaborative infrastructure projects in Thailand, including the ambitious Land Bridge project and a potential Formula One race. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327764-thai-pm-explores-key-investments-in-milan/

AP Photo/Luca Bruno, Pool Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has visited Milan, Italy, engaging with major investors from Intesa Sanpaolo to discuss collaborative infrastructure projects in Thailand, including the ambitious Land Bridge project and a potential Formula One race. Meeting with Intesa Sanpaolo officials, PM Srettha outlined plans for expanding major Thai airports like Suvarnabhumi, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. The bank showed keen interest in these developments, pledging potential financial support and further discussions soon. Intesa Sanpaolo's enthusiasm for green bonds harmonised with Thailand's strategy to issue bonds worth around US$1 billion (36 billion baht) by July. Anticipated demand hovers around US$250 million, with a roadshow planned to attract more investors. The visit wasn't solely focused on finance. The Thai PM also met with the president of the Industrial Design Association, exploring opportunities for design exhibitions in Thailand, capitalising on Milan's status as a design hub to inspire young Thai designers. In Rome, Srettha interacted with executives across diverse sectors like aviation, defence, insurance, consumer goods, energy, and automotive industries. These discussions aimed to exchange knowledge and spur Thailand’s economic growth. Promoting Thailand's sustainable development and inviting investor participation, Srettha also visited the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari Circuit in Bologna. Here, he discussed hosting a Formula One event, identifying U-Tapao Airport in Rayong province as a potential site. Key figures, including PTT's Chatchai Phromlert and BTS Group's Kavin Kanjanapas, have been consulted on the F1 project. Srettha aims for construction to begin by 2027, expressing optimism about its feasibility and revenue potential. VIP ticket prices are expected to range from US$5,000 to US$8,000, with additional income from sponsors and concessions anticipated. The prime minister's trip underscores Thailand’s ambitions for infrastructural innovation and international collaboration, setting the stage for a series of transformative projects aimed at driving economic and cultural growth. -- 2024-05-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Tuesday 21 May 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327763-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-21-may-2024/

One Thai volunteer was killed and nine others injured in two separate explosions in Narathiwat in the far south yesterday, the volunteer was providing security for several teachers when the blast took place causing his death.. And a street bomb caused several injuries, followed by gunfire as at least one rebel escaped. The incidents took place while peace talks and a workshop were underway between the Barisan Revolusi Nasional rebel group and Thai officials in Kuala lumpur. The Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases has handed down a six-month prison term to the brother of Progressive Movement leader Thanathorn, Mr Sakun thorn was found guilty of paying 20 miillion baht in bribes to an official and agents to obtain leases over two prime plots of land in bangkok. He denied the charge. A lawyer known for assisting sexual abuse victims, has been arrested for allegedly raping and blackmailing one of his own clients. The 26-year-old victim suffered depression and tried to take her own life by jumping off the deck of a navy ship in chonburi last november. The 34 year old lawyer denied the charge and said the incident was consensual, He filed lawsuits against her for attempting to extort money and filing a false complaint against him. He also took legal action against the police. A five-day Pride event will be staged in Bangkok to show Thailand's readiness to be Asia's "rainbow" capital. The Parade, Concerts and other activities will run from 31st May until 4th of June. Around the region: Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te urged China to cease its military and political intimidation against the self-governing island, as he was inaugurated for an unprecedented third term in office, Using Taiwans old name, he said: I hope that China will face the reality of the Republic of China’s existence,” followed by cheers from a crowd of 20 thousand. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thunderstorms, 36 Bangkok: Cloudy with thundershowers 36. Pattaya: sunny becoming cloudy, 33. Phuket and the south: Cloudy, with heavy thunderstorms 34. Hua Hin: Bright but cloudy, esome thunder showers late afternoon 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 -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-05-21 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Focuses on Expanding Digital Payment Services BANGKOK: — The Bank of Thailand is actively expanding the digital payments ecosystem to enhance accessibility for both Thai citizens and foreigners, as stated by an official at the institution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327760-thailand-focuses-on-expanding-digital-payment-services/

Man in Violent Rage Detained by Police After Attacking His Own Parents in Na Jomtien By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: PattayaupdateNews Sattahip — A 36-year-old Thai man was apprehended by police in Na Jomtien, Sattahip, on May 19th after he reportedly attacked his own parents. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327761-man-in-violent-rage-detained-by-police-after-attacking-his-own-parents-in-na-jomtien/

Sattahip — A 36-year-old Thai man was apprehended by police in Na Jomtien, Sattahip, on May 19th after he reportedly attacked his own parents. Police officers from the Na Jomtien Police Station responded to a call regarding a domestic violence incident at the Eua Arthorn Na Jomtien housing community. Upon arrival, they found the suspect, identified only as Mr. Nattawut, in a state of rage. He was reportedly verbally abusing and threatening his mother with a small cutting utensil on the street. After seeing the police, Mr. Nattawut fled to his apartment balcony. Local journalists and residents attempted to convince him to surrender to police. Mr. Nattawut initially appeared to surrender by tossing his weapon to the ground. However, upon seeing his mother again, he became enraged once more. By Aim Tanakorn PHOTO: PattayaupdateNews Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-05-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fire Guts Yacht in Chalong – VIDEO By Goongnang Suksawat A serene afternoon turned into a scene of emergency when a yacht moored near Lon Island, approximately one nautical mile from Chalong Pier, was suddenly engulfed in flames. Fulll story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327759-fire-guts-yacht-in-chalong-–-video/

A serene afternoon turned into a scene of emergency when a yacht moored near Lon Island, approximately one nautical mile from Chalong Pier, was suddenly engulfed in flames. At 3:35 PM on Monday, the Phuket Marine Police were alerted to the incident, which showed the vessel heavily ablaze, emitting thick black smoke visible from afar. The Royal Thai Navy, alongside the Phuket Marine Police, promptly responded to the distress call. Utilizing water pumps, they drew seawater to combat the fierce flames. In a fortunate turn of events, the yacht’s owner, reported to be a foreign national, was successfully rescued from the inferno without sustaining any injuries. The fire was eventually brought under control, preventing further damage or loss of life. Fire PKT.mp4 By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-05-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Abbott Injured After Being Stabbed at Temple in Thalang By Goongnang Suksawat A head monk, known as an Abbot, has sustained injuries after he was stabbed by a man who asked for 20 Baht inside a famous temple in Thalang. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327758-abbott-injured-after-being-stabbed-at-temple-in-thalang/

A head monk, known as an Abbot, has sustained injuries after he was stabbed by a man who asked for 20 Baht inside a famous temple in Thalang. The Thalang Police were notified of the incident at 11:26 P.M. on Sunday night (May 19th) at the Phra Thong Temple (Golden Buddha Temple) or Phra Phut Temple in the Thep Krasattri sub-district. Emergency responders and the Phuket Express arrived at the scene to find the injured man Phra Kru Suwan Buddha Phiban. He is the head of the monks, or Abbott, in the temple. The monk had sustained injuries from the stab wound to his chest. He was rushed to the Vachira Hospital in Phuket Town. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-05-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Thailand plans Formula One circuit near U-Tapao airport by 2028 by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Srettha Thavisin wikipedia page Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced plans to construct a Formula One racing circuit near U-Tapao Airport in Rayong province within the next three to four years. The prime minister shared this vision after meeting with Formula One Group executives in Milan yesterday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327714-prime-minister-considers-hosting-formula-one-race-in-bangkok/?do=findComment&comment=18929093

Thailand plans Formula One circuit near U-Tapao airport by 2028 by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Srettha Thavisin wikipedia page Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced plans to construct a Formula One racing circuit near U-Tapao Airport in Rayong province within the next three to four years. The prime minister shared this vision after meeting with Formula One Group executives in Milan yesterday. The 62 year old prime minister emphasised the importance of international sporting events for boosting tourism, expressing the government’s intention for Thailand to host the F1 World Championship. Accompanying him at the meeting were Chatchai Phromlert, chairman of PTT Plc, and Kavin Kanjanapas, president of BTS Group Holdings Plc. PM Srettha explained that PTT is expected to sponsor the construction of the new circuit, while BTS Group Holdings manages the expansive U-Tapao airport compound. The prime minister noted that the delegation received a favourable response from the F1 Group. “I believe that we and the organisers both want this to happen. I am confident that there will be good news in a few months.” The proposed circuit aims to host not only F1 and F2 races but also events for young racers. Although specific details have yet to be finalised, the government plans to begin construction of the circuit by 2027 or 2028 at the latest, according to the prime minister. During his visit to Italy, the Bangkok-born Srettha also toured the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari F1 circuit in Imola, east of Bologna, to gather insights and inspiration for the future Thai circuit, reported Bangkok Post. In related news, PM Srettha has a plan to rename Hua Hin Airport. During a visit to Hua Hin Prime Minister Srettha revealed his support for renaming the airport to Phetch-Hua Hin. This strategic move aims to highlight the adjoining province of Phetchaburi and tap into its potential as a tourist hotspot. Currently situated in the Hua Hin district of Prachuap Khiri Khan province, Hua Hin Airport is positioned right on the edge of Cha-am district in Phetchaburi. Full story: The Thaiger 2024-05-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Five Arrested in Patong Stabbing of British Man Picture courtesy: MATICHON online UPDATE: A Briton sustained injuries in a stabbing incident on Bangla Road, Patong, in the early hours of Saturday morning. This occurrence, causing concern within the local community, occurred at approximately 4:40 AM on May 18th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327755-five-arrested-in-patong-stabbing-of-british-man/

UPDATE: A Briton sustained injuries in a stabbing incident on Bangla Road, Patong, in the early hours of Saturday morning. This occurrence, causing concern within the local community, occurred at approximately 4:40 AM on May 18th. The victim, whose identity remains undisclosed, reportedly suffered a stab wound to his back during an altercation. Medical teams responded swiftly, and his injuries, though severe, are not life-threatening. Quick to react, Patong Police launched an investigation that led to the arrest of five Thai male suspects. CCTV footage played a crucial role in identifying the individuals involved in the incident. By 8:00 PM the same day, authorities had taken the suspects into custody. They are currently held at Patong Police Station, awaiting further legal proceedings. Police have been cautious with details about the suspects and the altercation's cause but assured the public of a thorough investigation. The stabbing has raised significant concerns regarding safety on Bangla Road, a well-known nightlife hotspot in Patong. In response, local authorities have vowed to increase vigilance and reinforce security measures to prevent future incidents. The investigation is ongoing, and more details will be released as officers continue to gather information. For now, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of both locals and visitors in this bustling part of Patong. Picture courtesy: MATICHON online -- 2024-05-21 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 21 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1327754-thailand-live-tuesday-21-may-2024/

Corrupt former DSI chief faces 44 million baht asset seizure Image courtesy of ThaiPBS World Thailand’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) concluded investigations into two cases involving the corrupt former Director-General of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), resulting in significant asset seizures totalling over 44 million baht (US$10 million). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327730-corrupt-former-dsi-chief-faces-44-million-baht-asset-seizure/