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A Thai teen has been apprehended by police during a covert early morning operation in Chiang Mai for toting a massive haul of around 900,000 methamphetamine tablets, stashed covertly in his pickup lorry. This successful operation was executed by the keen eyes of our lads in blue from the Lhoongkhot Police Station alongside colleagues from the narcotics suppression bureau. The bust took place at Ban Luang Village's entrance in the Lhoongkhot district following information about a possible drug run tipped off to the authorities. Our brave Bobby nabbed three culprits in the sting, the youngest two, alias Nan and Korn, mere 16 and 17-year-olds, and the elder lorry driver, Apichai, aged 23. Searching the vehicle led to a shocking discovery of nine sacks brimming with approximately 900,000 methamphetamine tablets. Strikingly, the teenage driver confessed to being promised a staggering 80,000 baht, a hefty reward for the illicit transport of drugs from the Chiang Dao area to Mae Taeng district. The authorities continue of great import in their investigations. The narcotics suppression bureau seized the reins, with all three suspects facing rigorous legal actions. This significant seizure poses a solid punch to the gut to the criminal networks behind the drug runs, disrupting the circulation of a significant amount of narcotics bound for our streets. The harrowing use of children in drug trafficking rings brings about many wracking concerns around how these syndicates lure adolescents into their clutches, utilising their misguided ambitions. Let this be a grim reminder of the risks entwined with drug trafficking and the severe ramifications that invariably follow. The case serves as a clarion call to sustain the fight against the narcotics menace. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-05-14 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bad News For Weed Shops: Potent Cannabis Poses Mental Health Risks Somsak Thepsutin, the recently appointed Minister of Public Health, is stepping into his role following Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's decision last Wednesday. He has pledged to listen to the perspectives of all parties involved. File photo courtesy: Thai PBS The verdict is in: frequent use of powerful cannabis poses serious risks to mental health, casting a shadow over pot shops nationwide. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327221-bad-news-for-weed-shops-potent-cannabis-poses-mental-health-risks/

Somsak Thepsutin, the recently appointed Minister of Public Health, is stepping into his role following Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's decision last Wednesday. He has pledged to listen to the perspectives of all parties involved. File photo courtesy: Thai PBS The verdict is in: frequent use of powerful cannabis poses serious risks to mental health, casting a shadow over pot shops nationwide. Thailand's booming marijuana market is facing a turbulent tide as Thailand's Prime Minister issued a decisive order for a crackdown following escalating health concerns and public outcry to shutter these establishments. Despite vocal protests from pro-cannabis advocates demanding concrete scientific evidence linking marijuana to mental health issues, the facts speak for themselves. Reports from hospitals and emergency wards across Thailand paint a concerning picture, corroborated by decades of rigorous scientific research. Studies from respected institutions like the National Institute on Drug Abuse and The Lancet Psychiatry leave little room for doubt. Cannabis, while not solely responsible, has been consistently linked to the onset of psychosis, mental disorders, and even more severe conditions. Alarmingly, suicidal thoughts are reported among regular users as well. Adding to the mounting evidence, a March 2023 study by North Shore University in New York highlighted that THC, the primary compound in cannabis, triggers inflammation, significantly elevating the risk of cardiovascular disease. In response to growing public apprehension, Pheu Thai MPs have rallied their grassroots supporters, advocating for the reclassification of cannabis as a scheduled narcotic. This sentiment is echoed by disillusioned farmers who have witnessed a dramatic decline in profits since the liberalization of cannabis in 2022. As tensions escalate, it appears that the aggressive pushback from pro-marijuana factions may have unintended consequences. The controversy comes hot on the heels of a recent drug summit at Government House, culminating in Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's resolute directive to reclassify cannabis as a scheduled narcotic by year's end. Unsurprisingly, this decision has triggered a wave of anger and discontent within the burgeoning cannabis sector, signaling turbulent times ahead for Thailand's pot industry. -- 2024-05-14 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fatal Feud Leaves Rescue Foundation in Shock: Volunteer Guns Down Colleague Picture courtesy: Thai Rath A shocking event has emerged from a renowned aid organization as one volunteer's life was barbarically extinguished by another. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327220-fatal-feud-leaves-rescue-foundation-in-shock-volunteer-guns-down-colleague/

A shocking event has emerged from a renowned aid organization as one volunteer's life was barbarically extinguished by another. The confessed 32-year-old gunman, Karnkan, was swiftly arrested and charged with intentional murder and illegal firearm possession. The unfortunate incident unfolded yesterday evening within the disaster relief unit of the Po Tek Tung Foundation. Thanawat, the ill-fated victim, succumbed to his wounds at the Hua Chiew Hospital. Culminating from a bitter personal disagreement spanning several months, an armed Karnkan fired three times at Thanawat's head using a .38 caliber revolver. The dispute turned fatal when Karnkan retrieved the hidden pistol from his motorcycle after an earlier brawl subsided. Officers from the Plabplachai 1 station responded promptly to the distress call, arresting Karnkan and confiscating the murder weapon. Police Chief Apichet Sapsongserm, stated that while the admitted shooter's cooperation is commendable, detailed information is being temporarily held back to avoid hindering the ongoing investigations. Karnkan was subjected to immediate drug and alcohol examination, with the results returning negative. The police are now focusing their investigations towards compiling witness testimonies from those present during the altercation and will be questioning foundation heads to shed further light on the incident. An emotionally stirring moment unfolded at the Forensic Medicine Institute within the Police General Hospital, Bangkok, as relatives and friends arrived to claim Thanawat’s body. The victim's loved ones intend to commemorate his life with a respectful service at the local Mahapreuttharam Temple. As the investigation continues, police remain dedicated to uncovering the precise circumstances surrounding this grim event, and are committed to securing justice for Thanawat and his bereaved family. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-05-14 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket Prepares for Discover Phuket Pride 2024 to Boost Tourism Picture courtesy: Phuket Hot News Known for its sprawling beaches and vibrant nightlife, Phuket is now enhancing its tourism game with a more inclusive, vibrant festival. The city leaders are leaving no stone unturned in preparing for the forthcoming Discover Phuket Pride 2024 @ Old Town event. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327219-phuket-prepares-for-discover-phuket-pride-2024-to-boost-tourism/

Known for its sprawling beaches and vibrant nightlife, Phuket is now enhancing its tourism game with a more inclusive, vibrant festival. The city leaders are leaving no stone unturned in preparing for the forthcoming Discover Phuket Pride 2024 @ Old Town event. The grand event, set to commence on June 29, is hugely anticipated due to its dedication to embracing the LGBTQ+ community and further boosting the charming city's economy. The festival's announcement by Phuket Town Mayor Saroj Angkhanapilas echoes the combined efforts of the municipality, various government bodies, private sector and civil society organisations. His aim? Showcasing Phuket as an all-embracing destination rich in diversity and a safe haven for the LGBTQ+ community. "Phuket prides itself as an international holiday hotspot, highly regarded for its positive attitude towards rights and diversities. We warmly welcome the LGBTQ+ community who are advocates of individuals with diverse sexual orientations and gender identities", Mr. Angkhanapilas said. The pride parade is set to breathe life into society's understanding and acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community. Notably, the event coincides with Pride Month, a yearly June celebration in memory of the Stonewall Riots of 1969. Held in Phuket's historic Old Town area from 5pm to 7pm, the parade is expected to be an array of colours with the display of the grand rainbow flag, a prominent symbol of LGBTQ+ pride and diversity. Over 300 participants are already geared to take part in this show of solidarity. However, it's not just about the parade. The event schedule also includes a range of diverse activities, meticulously organised by government bodies, private businesses, and community groups. Notable features include thrilling concerts featuring famous artists, awareness campaigns about sexually transmitted diseases, and initiatives to amp up tourism and the local economy. "Discover Phuket Pride 2024 @ Old Town is an expression of unity, equality, and diversity, strengthening Phuket's position as a tourist destination for all", added Mr. Angkhanapilas. With its remarkable blend of cultural heritage and entertainment, the Discover Phuket Pride 2024 is all set to make its mark on Phuket's annual calendar, beckoning tourists from around the world. Picture courtesy: Phuket Hot News -- 2024-05-14 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Chiang Mai's 'Rot Daeng' Decline While Grab Gains Momentum File photo courtesy: Thaiger Chiang Mai's emblematic red trucks, central to the city's transport system, face the risk of becoming mere relics of the past. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327217-chiang-mais-rot-daeng-decline-while-grab-gains-momentum/

Chiang Mai's emblematic red trucks, central to the city's transport system, face the risk of becoming mere relics of the past. The decline in users after the tourist season, compounded by the spike in popularity of global ride-hailing giants such as Grab and Bolt, has propelled the future of these traditional transports, locally called rot daeng, into uncertainty. Discussion on this topic has flooded social media networks like Facebook. Many locals have taken to these platforms expressing their dismay at the fading charm of the red trucks, making passionate pleas for an action plan to ensure the survival of their beloved transport icon. Even a prior venture to introduce air-conditioned trucks was met with enthusiasm. However, the current predicament projects a more sombre picture. The challenges posed by Grab, and their likes, bear heavily on the older generation, many of whom are retirees who continue to rely on their red trucks as a source of income. The slump in customers post-holiday season has forced many to consider a dismal choice: selling their trucks or bearing the financial brunt to return them if they are rented. But the public outcry is not only about competition. Many are there critiquing the services offered by the red trucks, especially regarding the lack of a standardised fare system. Many social media users recall and share unpleasant experiences. Abandoning passengers to fetch foreign riders mid-route, scandalous price surges for short distances, or variable rates for identical routes, all contribute to a broader dissatisfaction with the red truck services. Such experiences highlight the necessity of driver conduct improvements and robust fare regulations. This would aid in restoring trust amongst locals and visitors alike, enabling the red trucks to compete with emerging taxi apps that are rapidly gaining traction. The once-iconic red trucks, a cherished and practical facet of Chiang Mai's transport culture, are now at a pivotal juncture. As the community rallies together to halt this downward trend, it's clear that immediate action is required to prevent an irreversible decline. File photo courtesy: Thaiger -- 2024-05-14 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Tuesday 14 May 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327212-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-14-may-2024/

The minister of health yesterday confirmed that The government will reclassify cannabis as a narcotics by the end of this year. Following a direction from the prime minister last week. The minister said he would hold talks with cannabis businesses owners and groups to gather their feedback before the drug is re-listed. Several pro-cannabis groups say they will gather to protest outside the Ministry of Health headquarters from Thursday until it can justify why cannabis should be reclassified. Police are searching for the family of a female deputy mayor in Nakhon Si Thammarat, they are suspected of having ties to a major Chinese call scam ring. The woman, her husband and daughter were missing from their residence. Charges include public fraud, computer crime, illegal assembly, and association with a transnational criminal group. Locally,... The prime minister visited Huahin Airport yesterday where he announced a new name ‘Pecha-rat HuaHin’ Airport and plans to upgrade the airport to service international flights within the next 2 years, the airport may be operational ahead of schedule and in time for the high season towards the end of 2025. And.. A fire at a landfill site near TabTai has finally been extinguished after burning for 8 days, The large area of the site contained waste from the last 10 years which made it difficult for firefighters to deal with. Local authorities are considering how to manage the site to ensure there is no repetition of last week's events. Around the region: Cambodia and China begin their annual Golden Dragon military exercise this week to strengthen cooperation, 1,315 military personnel from Cambodia and 760 from China will participate in the 15-day exercise, backed by three Chinese warships and 11 Cambodian ships. Todays’ WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny becoming Cloudy with thundershowers, 36 degrees celsius. Bangkok: Cloudy with thunderstorms 33. Pattaya: Cloudy with thundershowers, 32. Phuket and the south: Becoming Cloudy, with thundershowers 33. Hua Hin: Sunny partly cloudy, 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 2024-05-14 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Infidelity Leads To Bizarre Ear-Biting Incident in Chon Buri Picture courtesy: bouncenationkenya In the province of Chon Buri, a Thai man has bitten off part of another man's ear following the shocking revelation of an adulterous relationship between the victim and the attacker's wife, which resulted in a pregnancy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327211-infidelity-leads-to-bizarre-ear-biting-incident-in-chon-buri/

Picture courtesy: bouncenationkenya In the province of Chon Buri, a Thai man has bitten off part of another man's ear following the shocking revelation of an adulterous relationship between the victim and the attacker's wife, which resulted in a pregnancy. Local enforcers from the Mueang Chon Buri police station, along with rescue teams, were drawn to an intense scuffle at the bustling Hua Hin-Bang Sai Market in Chon Buri last Saturday. Upon arrival, authorities were met with a sight of mixed horror and confusion as five men were found injured, one of them being Sophon, a 40-year-old man missing part of his right ear. Sophon was promptly given onsite first aid by the rescuers before he was rushed to Aikchol 2 Hospital. His present condition remains undisclosed. In a strange tale of unchecked passion and violent outbursts, Thai media outlets report that the brawl revolved around an illicit affair between Sophon and the wife of an unidentified man from the rival faction. Upon discovering that his wife's affair with Sophon had led to her pregnancy, the furious husband sought to vent his anger through a face-to-face confrontation at the local market. However, things took a nasty turn as the meeting spiralled into chaos. The subplot took a further violent twist when the accused admitted to biting Sophon's ear after being attacked with a broken glass bottle. Charges are yet to be filed by the local police as they intend to question everyone involved in the incident, including the expectant woman. Unfortunately, this isn't the first instance of such ear-biting encounters in the province. A reminiscent episode unfolded during the Songkran Festival in Chon Buri, where a man's ear was severed following a failed karaoke attempt at a BBQ joint, while a similar incident took place near Pattaya in 2022 involving an intoxicated Thai woman and an American tourist. -- 2024-05-14 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Vandals Strike Iconic Pattaya City Sign at Laem Bali Hai File photo courtesy: backpackers A famous sign in Pattaya City has been targeted by vandals using spray paint, leaving authorities and residents outraged. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327208-vandals-strike-iconic-pattaya-city-sign-at-laem-bali-hai/

File photo courtesy: backpackers A famous sign in Pattaya City has been targeted by vandals using spray paint, leaving authorities and residents outraged. The vandals defaced the well-known Pattaya City sign at Laem Bali Hai by spray painting the letters "P" and "A" and causing damage to the surrounding area. Local reports revealed that concerned citizens raised the alarm on social media, prompting authorities to investigate the scene. The vandals not only targeted the sign but also defaced walkways and metal beams with graffiti and stickers. The Pattaya City sign is a popular spot for tourists to capture photos and enjoy panoramic views of the city. The incident has sparked anger among residents and business owners, who are demanding strict legal action against the culprits, including possible imprisonment and hefty fines for damaging government property. Fortunately, surveillance cameras in the area are being reviewed by authorities to identify the vandals responsible for this act of vandalism. Earlier this year, Pattaya Mayor Poramase Ngampiches took personal action to apprehend two teenagers vandalizing public property at Bali Hai Pier. The culprits were successfully caught by the police and made to clean up the mess they had caused. -- 2024-05-14 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Plans to Upgrade and Rename Hua Hin Airport File photo courtesy: Wikimedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has set his sights on revitalizing Hua Hin airport with a series of upgrades and a proposed name change to "Petcharat Hua Hin". Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327207-pm-plans-to-upgrade-and-rename-hua-hin-airport/

File photo courtesy: Wikimedia Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has set his sights on revitalizing Hua Hin airport with a series of upgrades and a proposed name change to "Petchcharat Hua Hin". The PM, in collaboration with Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit, recently visited the airport to assess the potential for expansion and improvement. The main focus of the proposed upgrades is to enhance the airport's capacity to cater to more flights, both domestic and international. During the visit, the Prime Minister outlined plans to introduce new routes, such as Hat Yai-Hua Hin and Malaysia-Hua Hin, to bolster tourism in the seaside resort town. Additionally, there is a possibility of adding a route to a north-eastern province, further increasing connectivity to the area. Picture courtesy: Thai PBS The Prime Minister expressed his optimism about the airport's potential to attract more tourists if the existing runway is extended and facilities are modernized. He instructed the transport permanent secretary to conduct a feasibility study to determine if the runway extension and other necessary upgrades can be completed within two years. In a bid to give the airport a fresh identity that reflects the region's charm, the Prime Minister suggested renaming it "Petch Hua Hin". This move is seen as a symbolic step towards rebranding the airport and promoting Hua Hin as a key destination for travelers. The proposed upgrades and renaming of Hua Hin airport are part of a broader strategy to boost tourism in the area. By improving air connectivity and modernizing infrastructure, the government aims to attract more visitors to the picturesque resort town, further bolstering its reputation as a premier destination in Thailand. Pictures courtesy: Facebook Hua Hin Today -- 2024-05-14 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 14 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1327205-thailand-live-tuesday-14-may-2024/

The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) in Thailand is currently investigating wealthy foreign nationals holding elite visas in the country on suspicion of being involved in illicit financial activities. Thailand probes wealthy foreigners for money laundering scheme Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327149-thailand-probes-wealthy-foreigners-for-money-laundering-scheme/ CIB Comissioner Jirabhop Bhuridej. Picture courtesy: Daily News

Thai Medics Warn of Covid Surge with 11 New Deaths File photo courtesy of taishande for reference only Thai medical authorities have issued a warning following the recorded deaths of 11 individuals in the country and an increase in hospitalisations due to Covid-19, with 1,880 individuals admitted over the past seven days. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327152-thai-medics-warn-of-covid-surge-with-11-new-deaths/

Thai medical authorities have issued a warning following the recorded deaths of 11 individuals in the country and an increase in hospitalisations due to Covid-19, with 1,880 individuals admitted over the past seven days. The Department for Disease Control at Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health released data indicating a daily average of around 269 new Covid hospitalisations. Many of these cases require intensive care and mechanical ventilation, posing a strain on the healthcare system. Concerns are rising among doctors and hospitals as Covid patients are taking longer to recover, leading to a shortage of hospital beds. The high number of cases is also taking a toll on healthcare workers who are feeling overwhelmed by the demands. The situation has been consistent in recent weeks, with high numbers of Covid hospitalisations. Between 15% to 24% of these admissions require ICU care or supplemental oxygen, with recovery times ranging from three to eight weeks. Limited Covid testing is worrying healthcare professionals as it could lead to extensive spread in the community and potentially result in long-term medical issues, such as new-onset diabetes, hypertension, chronic fatigue, and neuropsychiatric problems. The emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 FLiRT variants in Thailand, with mutations F456L and R346T, is also causing alarm. These variants may impact disease transmission and severity, with the KP.3 sub-lineage being particularly concerning due to its high transmissibility rate. Symptoms of the FLiRT variants resemble those of earlier Covid strains but with variations in severity and additional symptoms like rashes, muscular pains, and lung lesions. In addition to physical challenges, the healthcare system is bracing for the psychological toll of the pandemic as healthcare workers face burnout and fatigue. Strict preventive measures, including mask-wearing, social distancing, and hand hygiene, are being enforced while vaccination efforts continue. The upcoming weeks are crucial for Thailand as authorities prepare for a potential surge in Covid cases driven by new variants and ongoing healthcare system challenges. TOP: File photo courtesy of taishande for reference only -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand probes wealthy foreigners for money laundering scheme CIB Comissioner Jirabhop Bhuridej. Picture courtesy: Daily News The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) in Thailand is currently investigating wealthy foreign nationals holding elite visas in the country on suspicion of being involved in illicit financial activities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327149-thailand-probes-wealthy-foreigners-for-money-laundering-scheme/

The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) in Thailand is currently investigating wealthy foreign nationals holding elite visas in the country on suspicion of being involved in illicit financial activities. The investigation was triggered by the arrest of a Chinese national, Chen, aged 52, who used a Thailand Privilege Card visa to stay in the country and allegedly laundered large sums of money for call centre scam groups. Chen, who was apprehended in Bangkok along with a Thai accomplice named Anan, is believed to be a key figure in money laundering for illegal scam syndicates in the region. The police raid on his luxurious residence uncovered a significant amount of cash, electronic devices, bank account details, and assets totaling around 42 million baht. It was revealed that Chen managed digital wallets with transactions amounting to approximately 70 billion baht. The arrest of Chen and Anan followed an extensive probe that began after the apprehension of five call centre gang members last year. These individuals were found to have operated a fraudulent website on the CIB Facebook page to defraud people and extort money from them. Further investigations unveiled that Chen and Anan were involved in managing digital wallets for unlawful transactions and converting digital assets into cash. Multiple raids were conducted in Bangkok, Samut Prakan, Chachoengsao, and Nakhon Ratchasima resulting in the seizure of evidence and bringing in five additional individuals for questioning. Chen, who lived in opulent surroundings, was found to have used a Thai nominee to make cash purchases of several properties. He held a five-year Thailand Privilege Card visa, allowing him to reside in the country as a member of the elite scheme. The CIB is now targeting criminals utilizing Thailand Privilege Card visas to enter and exit the country for illegal activities. They are also paying attention to those connected to such individuals, including their family members who may have benefited from their illicit endeavors. The Anti-Online Scam Operation Centre (AOC), established by the CIB and the Digital Economy and Society Ministry, works to combat technology-related crimes, including online scams and fraud. Despite their efforts, many individuals continue to fall victim to call centre scams, prompting the AOC to collaborate with Thai banks to monitor suspicious accounts and prevent financial losses. As scammers evolve their tactics to include cryptocurrencies, the CIB is working with various entities to develop strategies against such activities in the future. The synergy between law enforcement, financial institutions, and regulatory bodies aims to safeguard the public from falling prey to similar financial fraud schemes. TOP: CIB Comissioner Jirabhop Bhuridej. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man nabbed for drug deals at local 7-Eleven stores Picture courtesy: 77kaoded A Thai man landed in police custody for allegedly distributing crystal meth at several 7-Eleven outlets in Thailand. The suspect, identified as Nattaphong, was apprehended for hiding drugs in various locations within the stores. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327147-thai-man-nabbed-for-drug-deals-at-local-7-eleven-stores/