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Photo via Facebook/ งานสืบสวน สภ.กุมภวาปี An elderly woman was arrested in Udon Thani for switching from selling som tam to dealing drugs. The 63-year-old, previously known for her papaya salad, was caught with 54 methamphetamine tablets. She confessed that drug dealing was easier and more lucrative. Police in the Kumphawapi district of Udon Thani province reported the bust on social media, revealing how Prayong Tumputsa had turned to crime. The community, initially shocked, had reported suspicious activity, leading to her arrest. Her transition to drug dealing began shortly after her son's arrest for a similar crime. Prayong admitted buying methamphetamine for 25 baht per tablet and selling it for 40 baht each. She said her age made it too difficult to continue her som tam business. Charged under Section 145 of the Narcotics Control Act, Prayong faces between two to 20 years in prison and a hefty fine. Investigations continue to track down her supplier. -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 17 May 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327466-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-17-may-2024/

The lawyer for hungerstriker activist Netiporn says she had no vital signs when she was taken to Thammasat University Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. He added initial results of an autopsy raised questions about the treatment she received the time leading up to her having a heart attack. Her family were waiting for her medical records and CCTV video from the ward where she was being treated. Several supporters of cannabis urged the government to scrap plans to relist marijuana as an illegal narcotic, Pro-cannabis groups met with the minister for public health and urged him to rethink the policy, they pointed out that when you need licenses there is corruption. Many Critics say liberalisation was rushed through by the previous government with no clear rules in place which led to widespread confusion and misuse. There was general agreement that cannabis should be regulated but not as a narcotic. Thai Prime minister Tavisin met with French president Macron yesterday before heading to Italy where he met Prime minister Giorgia Meloni for discussions on mutual potential trade, renewable energy, sports, medical science, defense and tourism. The number of condominium units sold to foreign nationals rose by 5.2 percent, compared to the same period last year. According to the Real Estate information center. Chinese nationals topped the list with almost 1,600 units sold worth 4.5 billion baht. Second were Myanmar nationals, with 392 units worth 2.2 billion baht, followed by Russians, who bought 295 condo units worth 924 million baht. Locally,... A press conference yesterday, saw the football coach of the Wild Boars announce the first “Copa Tailandesa” Under 19s’ football tournament which will take place at Arena Hua Hin from June 16 to 18th. The Wild Boars football team is a youth team based in Chiang Rai, they became known following their rescue from flooded caves in 2018. Around the region: Indonesian journalist organisations have voiced concerns over stifled press freedom and threats to investigative journalism following proposed changes to the country’s broadcasting law. The Press Council said that an amended broadcasting bill goes against the principles laid out in the press law and will only churn out bad journalism Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny becoming Cloudy with thunderstorms, 33 degrees celsius. Bangkok: Cloudy with thundershowers 33. Pattaya: Thunderstorms, 31. Phuket and the south: Cloudy, with heavy thunderstorms 32. Hua Hin: cloudy, with thundery showers, 33. AQI: 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 2024-05-17 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Crackdown on Loan Sharks Intensifies: Deadline Imminent Representative Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The government has issued a stern deadline for loan sharks to report to authorities by the end of the month, as part of a nationwide crackdown on illegal money-lending operations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327465-crackdown-on-loan-sharks-intensifies-deadline-imminent/

Representative Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The government has issued a stern deadline for loan sharks to report to authorities by the end of the month, as part of a nationwide crackdown on illegal money-lending operations. Deputy Interior Minister Chada Thaiset addressed the media today, urging those involved to comply before facing stringent legal repercussions. Under the Pheu Thai-led government’s campaign, which began on 1 December, efforts are being ramped up to eliminate illegal debt and predatory lending practices. Chada emphasised the importance of cooperation, noting that loan sharks must report to provincial or district authorities regardless of whether their Thailand debtors have come forward. In a bid to ensure compliance, the Revenue Department will also be scrutinising the earnings of those involved in illegal lending. The campaign aims to provide justice not only for the debtors but also for the loan sharks, by facilitating the repayment of principal amounts through instalments and reducing exorbitant interest rates. To date, over 137,000 individuals, most of whom are illegal debtors, have declared their involvement, collectively accounting for 9.36 million baht in borrowed funds. The government’s strategy involves acting as mediators between debtors and lenders, with the goal of reaching compromised repayment terms that alleviate the financial burden on those involved. As the deadline approaches, Chada Thaiset reiterated the government’s resolve to bring an end to exploitative lending practices, promising significant penalties for those who fail to adhere to the new regulations. -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Srettha's Vision: Six Advantages Propelling Thailand into Investment Prominence Picture courtesy: The Nation Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin took the stage at SUBCON Thailand 2024, making a compelling case for Thailand as a premier investment destination. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327463-pm-sretthas-vision-six-advantages-propelling-thailand-into-investment-prominence/

Picture courtesy: The Nation Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin took the stage at SUBCON Thailand 2024, making a compelling case for Thailand as a premier investment destination. Addressing a crowd of global investors, Srettha spotlighted Thailand’s unique strengths in industries like electric vehicles (EVs) and electronics. Opening the international trade event, the premier emphasised Thailand’s edge, starting with geopolitical stability—a crucial factor amid regional competition. “Our ambitious Land Bridge project, estimated at US$300 billion (10 trillion baht), will revolutionise logistics, reinforcing Thailand as a manufacturing and export leader,” he said. The Land Bridge project involves building deep-sea ports in Chumphon and Ranong provinces and linking them via new transport routes. This aims to form a strategic connection between the Pacific and Indian Oceans, easing congestion in the Malacca Straits. Srettha, aged 62, further highlighted Thailand’s advantages: clean energy initiatives, free trade negotiations, improved quality of life, and support for entrepreneurship. He singled out the Eastern Economic Corridor’s deep-sea port development as critical for enhancing logistics. With over 500 companies at SUBCON Thailand 2024 and business matching expected to generate more than 22 billion baht, the investment prospects are soaring. Additionally, the BOI Symposium: EV Supply Chain sees major EV manufacturers exploring Thai investment opportunities, marking a pivotal moment. -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Prime Minister's Wife Joins Prestigious Politics Course Dr. Pakpilai. Picture courtesy of Khaosod In a surprising twist at the heart of Thai politics, the Prime Minister's wife has enrolled in a prestigious political course. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327462-prime-ministers-wife-joins-prestigious-politics-course/

Dr. Pakpilai. Picture courtesy of Khaosod In a surprising twist at the heart of Thai politics, the Prime Minister's wife has enrolled in a prestigious political course. Dr. Pakpilai Thavisin, known for her medical prowess, secured a place at the College of Politics and Governance in King Prajadhipok’s Institute (KPI). She was listed as the 81st selected student for the institution's 28th class. KPI’s programme attracts candidates from varied professional backgrounds, including political figures, industry leaders, judiciary members, and media professionals, all aged between 40 and 65. The rigorous selection process ensures a diverse and influential cohort. Prominent parliament members, including Chadapha Sintuprai and Pachara Chantararuangthong from the ruling Pheu Thai Party, and Karunpol Thiensuwan from the Move Forward Party, are also part of the new class. Corporate luminaries like Charlee Balmongkol from Thai Oil Plc add to the class's distinguished makeup. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is embarking on a diplomatic tour, visiting France, Italy, and Japan to strengthen international relations and attract investment to Thailand. His packed agenda highlights the government's proactive approach to global diplomacy. -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Navy Agrees to Install Chinese Engine in Its New Submarine Today, Thailand finalised its decision to install a Chinese-made CHD620 engine in their Chinese-built Yuan-class S26T submarine, marking a significant turn from the original plan of using a German MTU396 engine. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327461-thai-navy-agrees-to-install-chinese-engine-in-its-new-submarine/

Thai Navy Agrees to Install Chinese Engine in Its New Submarine Today, Thailand finalised its decision to install a Chinese-made CHD620 engine in their Chinese-built Yuan-class S26T submarine, marking a significant turn from the original plan of using a German MTU396 engine. This change comes after Germany blocked the sale as part of the European Union’s trade embargo against China. With the delivery of the submarine now expected to be delayed by over three years, the Thai navy faces a considerable wait. The CHD620 engine, which has not yet been used in any submarine—including those in China's fleet—will be tested in Thai waters, increasing both anticipation and apprehension among military officials. As part of the compromise, China will provide a submarine simulator and spare parts valued at 200 million baht, compensating for the 12.4 billion baht deal which has already seen a down payment of 7 billion baht from Thailand. This submarine will be Thailand’s first in over six decades, adding a layer of both historical significance and pressure. Negotiations have been intense, held at the Ministry of Defence in Bangkok, involving representatives from the Thai side and China’s Bureau of Military Equipment & Technical Cooperation. Defence Minister Suthin Khlangsang had suggested purchasing a Chinese-built frigate instead, but the navy’s top brass insisted on maintaining the original plan for the submarine. Former navy chief Luechai Ruddit initially pushed for the procurement of the S26T, a counterpart to the Russian-built Kilo-class submarine, preferring it over other models like a South Korean submarine and a secondhand German one. Pending future decisions, Thailand initially planned to acquire a fleet of three submarines, starting with the current troubled one. The resolution today marks a crucial step forward, though significant challenges lie ahead in integrating and testing the new engine. The development will be closely watched by both military analysts and policymakers. TOP Picture: S26T submarine, courtesy of China Daily -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Two Thais Confirmed Dead in October 7 Hamas Attack Picture courtesy of The Times of Israel via X In a grim update on the October 7 massacre by Hamas, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed the deaths of two Thai nationals, Sonthaya Oakkharasr and Sudthisak Rinthalak. Initially believed to have been taken hostage, the IDF announced that Hamas had killed the pair during their brutal attack and taken their bodies to Gaza. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327460-two-thais-confirmed-dead-in-october-7-hamas-attack/

Picture courtesy of The times of Israel via X In a grim update on the October 7 massacre by Hamas, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed the deaths of two Thai nationals, Sonthaya Oakkharasr and Sudthisak Rinthalak. Initially believed to have been taken hostage, the IDF announced that Hamas had killed the pair during their brutal attack and taken their bodies to Gaza. The two men were employed in agriculture at Kibbutz Be’eri, just four kilometres from the Gaza border, where working conditions left them vulnerable to the violence. The attack saw at least 39 Thai nationals killed, with 31 taken hostage to Gaza. Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, an IDF spokesman, conveyed how the terror group’s cruelty extended indiscriminately to foreigners, including nationals from various countries like Tanzania, Nepal, Mexico, the US, and France. The Thai Foreign Ministry, after being notified by its embassy in Tel Aviv, extended its condolences to the families and called for the immediate release of all remaining hostages, including six more Thai nationals still believed to be held in Gaza. The number of Thai nationals working in Israel was around 30,000 before the attack. The violence on October 7 saw thousands of Hamas terrorists infiltrate southern Israel, leading to the killing of approximately 1,200 individuals and the abduction of 252 hostages. Since then, efforts to secure the release of hostages have continued. Eight Thai nationals are believed to remain in Gaza, after the release of 23 during a recent truce agreementm reported The Times of Israel. The emotional toll of this tragedy was keenly felt on Sonthaya Oakkharasr’s 31st birthday, the same day the news of his death became public. The humanitarian organisation, Hotline for Refugees and Migrants, highlighted the disproportionate impact on immigrants during the massacre. Of the hostages taken on October 7, only 128 are believed to remain, with 105 civilians released during a brief truce. The remains of 12 hostages have been recovered, and the IDF has confirmed the deaths of 38 more based on recent intelligence. The plea for a swift resolution to the crisis continues, with international and local bodies urging negotiations to ensure the safe return of all hostages. -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Trans-tussle: Video captures fight between Pattaya and Phuket transwomen (video) Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ In a scene straight out of a Russ Meyer movie, a video recently went viral depicting a violent clash between a group of ladyboys in Soi Bangla, Phuket, and a squad of transwomen from Pattaya. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327459-trans-tussle-video-captures-fight-between-pattaya-and-phuket-transwomen-video/

Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ In a scene straight out of a Russ Meyer movie, a video recently went viral depicting a violent clash between a group of ladyboys in Soi Bangla, Phuket, and a squad of transwomen from Pattaya. Pictures and videos of the altercation were shared widely on Thai social media. In one video, a group of transgender women confront another transgender woman wearing a blue blouse. One of them, wearing a black dress, attacks the woman in blue, kicking, hitting, and pushing her onto the road while her friends egged her on. The woman in blue responds with verbal insults and attempts to leave the scene. The DailyNews reported that the incident took place in front of an entertainment venue called New York Bar in the Soi Bangla at about 3.30am on May 14. Patong Police Station officers summoned six transgender women involved in the fight for questioning today, May 15. One of them, Susie, claimed the woman in blue started the argument for no reason. Susie explained that she was sitting in front of the New York Bar when the ladyboy in blue approached and stared at her before asking Susie why she looked back. According to Susie, the ladyboy asked her to apologise. “Don’t you know who am I? Apologise to me!” Susie said that she and her friends were angered by the woman’s behaviour, which escalated into a fight. She further added that the woman seemed drunk and mentioned her origin from Pattaya. The Superintendent of Patong Police Station, Chalermchai Hernsawat, told the DailyNews that the transwoman in blue did not file a complaint. However, the six transgender women admitted to the physical assault. So, each of them was fined 1,000 baht for voluntarily engaging in a physical altercation. A similar incident occurred in Soi Bangla earlier this month when a group of transwomen attacked a foreign man for allegedly slapping one of them. Neither side took legal action against the other. Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand's Cannabis Industry Faces Uncertain Future Amid Government Review Picture courtesy Pattaya Mail via Thaiger Thailand’s cannabis industry faces uncertain future as Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin calls for a crucial meeting to reassess the legal status of cannabis, potentially reverting it to a Category 5 narcotic. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327457-thailands-cannabis-industry-faces-uncertain-future-amid-government-review/

Picture courtesy Pattaya Mail via Thaiger Thailand’s cannabis industry faces uncertain future as Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin calls for a crucial meeting to reassess the legal status of cannabis, potentially reverting it to a Category 5 narcotic. The high-stakes discussion includes Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Minister of Public Health Somsak Thepsuthin, and Minister of Justice Police Colonel Thavee Sodsong. If cannabis is reclassified, its use would be limited to medical purposes, focusing on enhanced addiction treatment programs. This decision could have far-reaching implications for businesses, particularly in tourist hotspots like Pattaya. Wara, who runs a licensed cannabis shop in Pattaya, expressed his concerns. “Most of my customers are tourists buying cannabis for recreational use. This change could drastically impact our business,” he said. Wara is urging fellow shop owners to remain calm and comply with impending regulations, such as requiring licensed pharmacists and medical prescriptions for customers. He believes in staying optimistic for a balanced resolution that considers the economic benefits to the industry. “We need a solution that acknowledges the economic impact while safeguarding public health,” Wara added, noting the importance of responsible sales practices. Meanwhile, Gunkul Engineering, a renewable energy company listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), has put a pause on its cannabis investment. The firm, which entered the cannabis and hemp market through its subsidiary GK Hemp Group, has already invested nearly 500 million baht (US$14 million) but now awaits clearer regulations before committing further funds. Pro-cannabis groups are ramping up their efforts to resist the government's proposed changes, even threatening to stage a protest outside the Ministry of Public Health. These groups demand scientifically-backed evidence to justify the reclassification. As discussions continue, the future of Thailand’s cannabis industry hangs in the balance, awaiting a decision that could reshape its landscape entirely. -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreigners Detained for Illegal Daycare on Koh Pha Ngan Picture courtesy of the Tourist police Police in Surat Thani have detained several foreigners suspected of operating an illegal daycare and wakeboarding service centre on Koh Pha Ngan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327456-foreigners-detained-for-illegal-daycare-on-koh-pha-ngan /

Picture courtesy of the Tourist police Police in Surat Thani have detained several foreigners suspected of operating an illegal daycare and wakeboarding service centre on Koh Pha Ngan. Tourist Police apprehended a 26-year-old Russian woman and an 18-year-old Myanmar woman at a residence where they were taking care of foreign children. The Russian woman confessed to police that she had been working at the daycare for three months while on a tourist visa. The Myanmar woman revealed she had been employed there for over a year as a helper. Both women indicated that their employer was a Belarusian woman, whom police are currently attempting to locate. In a separate incident, police raided Back & Forth Wake Park, targeting illegal wakeboarding services. A Russian man was arrested for operating the facility without proper authorisation since December last year. He was also in Thailand on a tourist visa. Authorities are cracking down on illegal foreign-run businesses, aiming to keep operations within legal boundaries and ensuring the safety and compliance of all service providers. -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin Attends Red Shirt Leader's Restaurant Launch in Bangkok Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra surfaced in public today to celebrate the opening of a new restaurant branch by a former red shirt leader in Bangkok. This marks another notable appearance for Thaksin since his release on parole earlier this year. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327455-thaksin-attends-red-shirt-leaders-restaurant-launch-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra surfaced in public today to celebrate the opening of a new restaurant branch by a former red shirt leader in Bangkok. This marks another notable appearance for Thaksin since his release on parole earlier this year. The event took place at Yeam Tai, a southern cuisine restaurant situated on Chaiyaphruk Road. Key political figures, including Bhumjaithai Party leader and Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, as well as Agriculture Minister Thammanat Prompao, were also in attendance, underscoring the significance of the occasion. Nattawut Saikua, the restaurant owner, was a prominent leader of the red shirt movement, which protested against the Abhisit Vejjajiva government in 2009. He later served as Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Commerce under Yingluck Shinawatra’s administration from 2012 to 2014. Thaksin, who was released on parole citing old age and severe illness, appears to be contradicting his earlier claims. He has been quite active, travelling to multiple provinces including Chiang Mai and Phuket, with plans to visit Nakhon Ratchasima next week. Rumours persist that Thaksin is exerting influence behind the scenes in Thai politics through the Pheu Thai Party, which his youngest daughter currently leads. Moreover, he has reportedly been involved in mediating between conflicting factions in Myanmar. -- 2024-05-17 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 17 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1327454-thailand-live-friday-17-may-2024/

Ladyboy duo nabbed for stealing gold necklace from Indian tourist Photo via Channel 7 and Facebook/ เรารักพัทยา Police arrested two Thai ladyboy thieves for gold necklace theft in Pattaya after one of them was caught pretending to hug an Indian tourist and stealing his necklace worth about 60,000 baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327416-ladyboy-duo-nabbed-for-stealing-gold-necklace-from-indian-tourist/

A senior Thai official yesterday raised the alarming possibility that Thailand may need to consider relocating its capital city Bangkok due to the threat posed by rising sea levels caused by climate change. The bustling metropolis of the capital already grapples with severe flooding during the rainy season each year. Buckle up, Bangkok: Thai official floats capital relocation amid rising sea Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327409-buckle-up-bangkok-thai-official-floats-capital-relocation-amid-rising-sea/ Image by Wiroj Sidhisoradej on Freepik

Chinese Woman, 68, Tragically Drowns in Pattaya Swimming Pool Picture courtesy: The Pattaya News A 68-year-old Chinese woman has tragically drowned in the swimming pool of her residence near Pattaya, Thailand. The incident occurred on Tuesday, May 14th, sending shockwaves through the local community. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327389-chinese-woman-68-tragically-drowns-in-pattaya-swimming-pool/