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A disturbing discovery unfolded in Chon Buri as authorities stumbled upon a human body encased in concrete inside a 200-liter barrel at the Map Prachan reservoir in Bang Laung district. The remains are believed to belong to a 34-year-old Korean man who had been reported missing earlier. Roh Eui Jong went missing on May 3, prompting an extensive search effort. The situation took a grim turn when investigators found that all of the victim's fingers had been severed, likely in an attempt to hinder identification. Concerns escalated when Roh's mother, residing in South Korea, received a troubling call from her son's LINE number. The caller, who remains unidentified, demanded a ransom of 3 million baht (about US$82,000) and threatened harm if the payment was not made by May 8. The ransom was purportedly to cover the costs of drugs allegedly disposed of by Roh in a river. In response to the alarming situation, the South Korean embassy in Bangkok intervened, prompting collaboration between the Metropolitan Police Bureau and Chon Buri police. Based on the trace of the call, Roh's movements, and CCTV footage analysis, detectives narrowed their focus to the Bang Lamung area. The probe led them to a rented house where the suspects were seen on camera, later transiting to a white pickup truck. Subsequently, they were caught on video purchasing a barrel and other supplies from a nearby shop. Nittaya Chanprung, the shop owner, recalled a foreigner buying a large plastic barrel, ropes, and scissors on May 3 without raising any red flags. The security footage from the store was obtained by investigators to aid in the case. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Airways' staggering journey from bankruptcy to recovery Picture courtesy: Wikimedia Thai Airways International has announced plans to finalize its restructuring efforts later this year, marking a remarkable comeback from the financial woes brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327108-thai-airways-staggering-journey-from-bankruptcy-to-recovery/

Thai Airways International has announced plans to finalize its restructuring efforts later this year, marking a remarkable comeback from the financial woes brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic. The airline, based in Bangkok, has been working tirelessly to reduce its debts and revamp its operations amid a sharp decline in air travel caused by the global health crisis. With hopes high for a return to profitability, Thai Airways recently reported positive Q1 2024 results, signaling a promising path forward as it aims to relist on the stock market and regain its former standing in the industry. Despite facing bankruptcy protection in 2020, Thai Airways has undergone significant changes over the past four years, implementing a wide-ranging restructuring plan to revitalize the company. While the airline managed to stay profitable in Q1 2024, challenges remain, including rising operating costs and a decrease in restructuring gains that led to an 80% drop in net profit compared to the previous year. However, the airline saw an 11% increase in revenues, supported by a rise in passenger numbers. Looking ahead, Thai Airways is looking to expand its operations with new European routes and the addition of more Boeing and Airbus aircraft to its fleet. Picture courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-05-13 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 13 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1327107-thailand-live-monday-13-may-2024/

A 60-year-old New Zealander, Mr. Corrine, has been nabbed by immigration officers in the popular Thai holiday spot of Pattaya for overstaying his visa by almost six years. Kiwi held in Pattaya for overstaying visa by six years Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327080-kiwi-held-in-pattaya-for-overstaying-visa-by-six-years/ Immigration Police Picture courtesy: Chiang Rai Times

A 60-year-old New Zealander, Mr. Corrine, has been nabbed by immigration officers in the popular Thai holiday spot of Pattaya for overstaying his visa by almost six years. The arrest took place at a corner shop near Jomtien Beach, confirmed Immigration Police. This detainment comes as part of a crackdown operation, labeled “X-ray,” which targets visa violators along with foreigners involved in criminal activities or encroaching on Thai-specific jobs. Mr. Corrine’s overstaying record amounted to a staggering 2,173 days, as per police sources. During interrogation, he admitted to flying under the radar for nearly six years by keeping a low profile and steering clear of making local connections. He confessed to venturing outside his abode only during evenings to procure essentials, all in a bid to avoid run-ins with law enforcement. Having been alerted to his breach, Immigration Police have apprised him of his offense. He currently remains in Pattaya awaiting the legal processes for deportation. Immigration Police Picture courtesy: Chiang Rai Times -- 2024-05-12 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Wissanu Krea-ngam named Bangkok Post Chairman File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Former Deputy Prime Minister and noted legal acumen, Wissanu Krea-ngam, habitually navigating General Prayut Chan-o-cha's government's political intricacies, now finds himself at the helm of the prestigious Bangkok Post. Fulll story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327031-wissanu-krea-ngam-named-bangkok-post-chairman/

File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Former Deputy Prime Minister and noted legal acumen, Wissanu Krea-ngam, habitually navigating General Prayut Chan-o-cha's government's political intricacies, now finds himself at the helm of the prestigious Bangkok Post. The board of directors confirmed Wissanu's new role as the Bangkok Post's Chairman this Wednesday. This Southern-born legal eagle, well-known within the capital's media sphere and beyond, sees a career shift after nearly three decades of public service. Wissanu, familiar to reporters for his work in government, particularly his strategic orchestration of General Prayut Chan-o-cha's two-term government, also served under former Premier Thaksin Shinawatra before exiting public life in September 2023 when contemporary management assumed office. Aged 73, Wissanu holds an enviable position as one of Thailand's most respected legal minds. His voluminous governmental experience has equipped him with an irreplaceable skill set. Working predominantly behind the scenes, he's borne witness and contributed to numerous pivotal governmental procedures since 1992. His unique combination of legal wisdom and hands-on political knowledge is expected to usher in a new era at the Bangkok Post. With his refined skills and unrivalled expertise, observers predict he will preserve and enhance the longstanding reputation of the 75-year-old iconic broadsheet. Upon his appointment, Wissanu affirmed, "I am delighted to take up this stewardship and look forward to fostering a culture of insightful and balanced journalism at the Bangkok Post. It is my sincere endeavour to steer it towards even greater heights of journalistic excellence." His upcoming tenure sparks curiosity within the media sector and Thai political sphere alike. His vast experience, coupled with his clear-cut vision for the paper, provides an intriguing premise as the Bangkok Post embarks on this new chapter under Wissanu's guidance. -- 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Mother Exposes Phoney Facebook Adoption Ring Using Her Children's Photos Picture courtesy: Khaosod NATIONAL - A shocking adoption scam that exploits the imagery of innocent families has recently been unveiled on Facebook by a horrified mother. The fraudulent posts offered the adoption of children depicted in stolen photos, a chilling revelation that has sparked widespread public outrage and concern. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327030-mother-exposes-phoney-facebook-adoption-ring-using-her-childrens-photos/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod NATIONAL - A shocking adoption scam that exploits the imagery of innocent families has recently been unveiled on Facebook by a horrified mother. The fraudulent posts offered the adoption of children depicted in stolen photos, a chilling revelation that has sparked widespread public outrage and concern. The duplicitous posts circulated through Facebook groups, banking on emotionally charged pleas like, “Looking for a loving home for this precious girl”, accompanied by photographs of cheerful, seemingly well-cared-for children. These posts would then go on to promulgate specifics about adoption fees and the preferential provisions for the child's education till completion. Public outcry was immediate and vociferous with netizens condemning the illicit operation and raising alarms about the unsavoury connections it has with the sinister world of human trafficking. As the scandal unravelled online, it was discovered that similar scams had previously come under the scanner and many more were covertly operating in the shadows of the internet. In a fresh update, Chompunoot Phakaew, a Facebook user, posted about her disconcerting experience of accidentally stumbling upon the scam and finding out her family had been unknowingly cast as characters in this wicked ploy. Her shock was exacerbated when she found out that her children's photos had been used to feign adoption offers tied to illicit financial transactions. Phakaew assured the public that her family had no association with the scam, explaining that her child was biologically hers and was never up for adoption. She extended a warning to others, urging them not to fall prey to such deceptive activities, and decried the malevolent notion of selling off a child borne with love and care. This harrowing revelation, just ahead of Thailand’s National Children’s Day, underscores the pressing need for improved child security systems. As the nation channels resources towards their betterment, a firm eye must be kept on cyber activity to ensure no child falls victim to such sinister scams. -- 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai U-Turn on Cannabis: Protests and Lawsuits Loom Stock photo credit: openverse Thailand's recent decision to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic, led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, has sparked widespread outrage, threatening to ignite street protests and cause a flurry of lawsuits brought by an industry built on the promise of decriminalisation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327028-thai-u-turn-on-cannabis-protests-and-lawsuits-loom/

Stock photo credit: openverse Thailand's recent decision to reclassify cannabis as a narcotic, led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, has sparked widespread outrage, threatening to ignite street protests and cause a flurry of lawsuits brought by an industry built on the promise of decriminalisation. Two years ago, Thailand decriminalised cannabis, classing it as a 'controlled herb' and leaving its recreational use unrestricted. The move spurred the creation of almost 8000 dispensaries dotting every corner of the country. Yet, these shop owners now face the spectre of complete re-criminalisation with Thavisin's order to redraw cannabis as a 'category five' narcotic. This change would redefine the mere act of “production, sale, import, export, or possession” of cannabis as a criminal offence under Thai drug law. Medical use would remain legal. Thailand's burgeoning cannabis market, promoted as a boost for agricultural growth and wellness tourism, stands aghast. Advocacy group, ‘Writing Thailand’s Cannabis Future’, has called for a protest in Bangkok on May 16 whilst dispensary owners pledge legal action. Rattapon Sanrak, owner of Highland Cafe, sternly noted: "We’re all doing everything by the book but then suddenly the book is going to change.” The pubic U-turn reflects the ruling Pheu Thai Party's aggressive anti-drug stance. Recently, Thavisin set law enforcement and local authorities a 90-day deadline to crack down on drugs in 25 identified 'red zones'. Political rival Bhumjaithai Party have challenged this strategy, espousing a regulatory approach over further criminalisation. The seesaw of cannabis policy, from decriminalisation to the looming threat of re-criminalisation, seems set to harm Thailand’s nascent cannabis industry struggling under legal uncertainties. The potential penalties for possession of cannabis post-reclassification are severe, with possible imprisonment of up to 15 years and fines reaching 1.5 million baht ($40,600). Industry insiders fear the move will damage foreign investor confidence, cripple the industry, and plunge cannabis distribution back into the shadowy reaches of Thailand's underworld. They are urging health authorities to use science and facts to compare the effects of cannabis to those of alcohol and tobacco, and base their drug classification decisions on such comparisons. Rattapon of Highland Cafe warns: “Instead of regulating the industry properly, you’re choosing to close it up and make it worse by pushing it underground." With over a million households registered to plant cannabis, the stakes are high and consequences could be game-changing. -- 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Banks To Face Rigorous Compliance Regulations Starting June File photo credit: Wikipedia Thailand is set to implement stringent new compliance regulations for customers opening bank accounts, in response to a sharp rise in the misuse of these accounts for illicit or fraudulent activities. From November last year through the present, Thai authorities have closed over 300,000 "mule" accounts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327027-thai-banks-to-face-rigorous-compliance-regulations-starting-june/

File photo credit: Wikipedia Thailand is set to implement stringent new compliance regulations for customers opening bank accounts, in response to a sharp rise in the misuse of these accounts for illicit or fraudulent activities. From November last year through the present, Thai authorities have closed over 300,000 "mule" accounts. These regulations, as promulgated by the Bank of Thailand, the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO), the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the anti-online scam centre AOC 1441, are poised to take effect by June 1st, as confirmed by Prasert Jantararuangtong, Minister of Digital Economy and Society. All banks will now be required to strictly adhere to a Customer Due Diligence (CDD) approach. Local experts from the Thai authorities estimate that accounts exploited for offences could tally up to one million. Growing compliance in the digital banking sector has been encouraged due to the sustained efforts of financial institutions and related government initiatives. The digital banking market in Thailand is projected to grow by 8.69% between 2024 and 2028, as per Statista research. This growth trajectory is likely to be aligned with a surge in compliance-related efforts, aimed at meeting regulatory mandates and safeguarding against financial crimes. The Thai banking sector, a historical pillar of the nation’s economy, has been undergoing a significant transformation. McKinsey’s findings suggest a potential regain of regional clout, with a shift towards digital banking that necessitates a robust compliance framework to ensure transactional integrity. In closing, Thailand's digital banking sector's compliance industry is witnessing dynamic changes driven by regulatory strides, technology, and a commitment to enhancing the digital banking experience. As the sector evolves, compliance will form a foundational anchor, ensuring a secure, sustainable digital banking revolution, tuned with international best practices. These changes offer both opportunities and challenges to compliance professionals, who shall remain at the forefront of shielding the financial ecosystem from emerging risks. -- 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok Chef Arrested For Teen Employee's Rape: Ignites Workplace Safety Debate Picture courtesy: Komchadluek A 25-year-old chef from a popular Bangkok eatery was arrested yesterday following allegations of assault and rape of a 16-year-old member of his staff, leading to serious concerns about workplace safety for young employees. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327025-bangkok-chef-arrested-for-teen-employees-rape-ignites-workplace-safety-debate/

A 25-year-old chef from a popular Bangkok eatery was arrested yesterday following allegations of assault and rape of a 16-year-old member of his staff, leading to serious concerns about workplace safety for young employees. Watanyu, the chef based in a restaurant in the Pin Klao district, was arrested thanks to the steadfast detective work of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, under the guiding hand of Chief, Police Major General Thiti Sangsawang. The Taling Chan Criminal Court had issued an arrest warrant on December 8, which was executed swiftly. The accusations against Watanyu are grave. He is charged with luring a minor, abducting her from her guardians without permission, and then raping her. The horrifying ordeal is believed to have happened in September 2021, with the alarm only raised when the teenage victim's parents noticed her debilitating change in behaviour. It is understood that Watanyu used his position as the head chef to exploit the naive girl. He lured the girl into his flat after her shift under the guise of work duties and in the safety of his home, sexually assaulted and raped her. After the incident, the victim was reportedly dumped outside the shopping centre where the restaurant is based. She was able to contact a friend and return home, where she eventually opened up to her parents about the incident. A complaint was lodged with the Bang Yi Khan Police Station, quickly leading to Watanyu's arrest. Despite initially denying the charges, Watanyu eventually conceded the incident, but insisted it was consensual. His trial is forthcoming, and he is now held in police custody pending the hearing. This troubling case has provoked anger and discussion around the necessity for heightened measures to protect young people in working environments. As the story continues to reverberate around Bangkok and beyond, authorities are urging others who may have suffered a similar fate to come forward, assuring that justice will prevail. The horrifying incident serves as a sobering reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by young people at work, and the paramount importance of stringent safeguards to shield them from such abuse. Picture courtesy: Komchadluek -- 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Lampang Tragedy: Teenager Dies, Passenger Injured in Midnight Motorcycle Accident Picture courtesy: Khaosod During the early hours of yesterday, tragedy struck Lampang City as a teenage girl tragically lost her life in a motorcycle accident. The unfortunate event, which also left her 16-year-old passenger injured, happened at 2:50am on May 10, right on the heart of the city's busy Phaholyothin Road. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327024-lampang-tragedy-teenager-dies-passenger-injured-in-midnight-motorcycle-accident/

During the early hours of yesterday, tragedy struck Lampang City as a teenage girl tragically lost her life in a motorcycle accident. The unfortunate event, which also left her 16-year-old passenger injured, happened at 2:50am on May 10, right on the heart of the city's busy Phaholyothin Road. Responding to a distress call, emergency services found a harrowing scene. A black scooter lay shattered next to the footpath, a large tree marking the point of severe impact. Close by lay its heroic rider, 18-year-old Kesorn, her life tragically cut short. Her passenger, young Akkarawin, had injuries but was alive. He was rushed to Lampang Hospital for immediate medical attention. Teams from the local police, Lampang Hospital's forensic department, and the Sawang Nakorn Lampang rescue arrived swiftly but found no hope for Kesorn. Their focus shifted to piecing together the chilling moments that turned a late-night ride into a fatal accident. Initial observations suggest that a loss of control may have sent the motorcycle slamming into the footpath's curb before the fatal collision with the tree. The accident investigation is in full swing, with every piece of evidence, every skid mark and debris scrutinised, to stitch together the detailed sequence of events. Factors like the vehicle's speed at the time of the accident, the road conditions, and any other circumstantial input that could have catalysed the crash are under intense examination. This tragic episode is a grim spotlight on the significant challenges urban spaces pose to road safety. Dense traffic flow and potential hazards amplify the dire consequences of even the smallest mistakes. As the police delve deeper into uncovering the causes behind this accident, it reinforces the tenuous nature of life and the urgency for meticulously securing our roads. In the aftermath of such an awful incident, Lampang City's local administration is likely to stringently revisit its road safety protocols. Perhaps the reflections will infuse fresh perspectives into improving road visibility, stricter enforcement of traffic laws, and a robust drive towards spreading awareness on road safety. In wake of the tragedy, such foresightful steps will offer a beacon of certain hope amid the gloom of unfortunate loss. Picture courtesy: Khaosod -- 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Model Accused in over 10M Baht Forex Fraud Scandal Picture courtesy: Amarin TV In a jolting revelation today, a high-profile Thai model known for his charming presence and lavish lifestyle has been apprehended for allegedly orchestrating a Forex fraud that siphoned off more than 10 million baht (£217,000) from unsuspecting investors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327018-model-accused-in-over-10m-baht-forex-fraud-scandal/

In a jolting revelation today, a high-profile Thai model known for his charming presence and lavish lifestyle has been apprehended for allegedly orchestrating a Forex fraud that siphoned off more than 10 million baht (£217,000) from unsuspecting investors. The swindle was masked under the guise of a burgeoning tech company, Fide Tech Group, professing to deal in application development, online gaming and multimedia. Mr. Suripich "Gas" Pakahaan, 30, was arrested following an intensive manhunt spearheaded by 59-year-old inspector Sgt. Phithat. Post his last known sighting in Istanbul on November 30th 2022, Pakahaan had seemingly vanished. The successful arrest came in the wake of 16 warrants issued against the model-turned-fraudster. Pakahaan initiated his professional journey as an entertainment freelancer at a tender age of 19, branching into various domains such as modelling. The big con began when he encouraged friends to co-found Fide Tech Group. Overseeing finance, he diverted substantial investments into stocks, aiding his ostentatious lifestyle, until the capital pool ran dry. While residing in the UK, Pakahaan discovered his imminent capture upon learning about the issued arrest warrants. Driven by fear and desperation, he sought help from a Malaysian woman to enter Thailand discreetly, promising 5000 baht (£109) per trip as a fee. As the story unfolds, it sends a sobering reminder of the potential hazards lurking in the investment world. One must remain wary of outwardly attractive ventures and conduct fitting due diligence. Picture courtesy: Amarin TV -- 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Jobless Man Fatally Strikes Friend with Potted Plant Picture courtesy; Thai Rath In a small district in Thailand, Sri Racha, an unemployed man stands accused of fatally beating his friend, whom he was staying with, with a plant pot early on Thursday morning. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327016-jobless-man-fatally-strikes-friend-with-potted-plant/

In a small district in Thailand, Sri Racha, an unemployed man stands accused of fatally beating his friend, whom he was staying with, with a plant pot early on Thursday morning. The accused, named only as Mr. Kamron, aged 39, was temporarily residing with the victim, a 35-year-old street food vendor, identified as Mr. Kritsada. Kritsada had generously offered Kamron a place to stay at his home, understanding his current circumstances of unemployment. The incident occurred in the heart of Sri Racha District, a sleepy town situated within Chonburi Province. Unexpectedly, the early dawn calm shattered when an argument broke out between the pair. Reportedly, frustrations had escalated over Kamron's ongoing jobless state. Kritsada, it seems, encouraged his friend to seek employment, leading to heated tensions. Neighbourhood witnesses, two teenage girls, were startled awake to the clash. The girls gave chilling account of the row, stating it rapidly intensified into a conflict as both men reached a boiling point in an alley. Abruptly, Kamron appeared wielding a beer bottle, striking Kritsada with the broken shards. In a final act of aggression, the enraged man grabbed a potted plant and swung it into Kritsada's face. Despite immediate hospitalisation at Laem Chabang Hospital, Kritsada tragically lost his life, injuries sustained simply too severe. Meanwhile, Kamron, apprehended at the scene, now faces the full force of the law, held by Laem Chabang police on murder charges. This grim tale serves as a reminder that tensions can simmer beneath the surface, and sometimes, even the most innocuous domestic items can be deployed with lethal intent. The peaceful region of Sri Racha momentarily plunged into horror, leaving a community questioning how a testament of friendship could turn so ghastly. Picture courtesy; Thai Rath -- 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Terrifying Blaze Devastates Turkish Tourist's Pattaya Home Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In Pattaya, a holiday became a nightmare for Turkish tourist Ismail Ceyhun Balaban, when a fire decimated his temporary abode around 9:06 PM on Thursday, May 9. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327015-terrifying-blaze-devastates-turkish-tourists-pattaya-home/

In Pattaya, a holiday became a nightmare for Turkish tourist Ismail Ceyhun Balaban, when a fire decimated his temporary abode around 9:06 PM on Thursday, May 9. The residence, nestled amidst the peaceful ambience of Classic Villa Village on Phatthanakan Road, Nongprue sub-district, Banglamung district, Chonburi province, was reported as an inferno to the Nongprue Municipal Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office, who swiftly dispatched four fire engines to the crisis site. Upon arrival, the fire crew witnessed a single-story villa engulfed in flames, causing clouds of smoke to billow. A closer inspection post the disaster revealed charred remains of spray paint cans and electrical appliances, along with slight damage to the house structure. A shaken yet grateful Mr Balaban confirmed that he was away from the house when the incident occurred, thus escaping potential harm. The cause of the fire, however, remains unknown to him. Eyewitness and fellow resident, Paiboon Thongma, shared his experience of smelling smoke and hearing an explosive sound before the blaze erupted. His prompt alert to the fire department played a key role in the swift response. Pattaya police are conducting an intensive investigation to unravel the cause of the fire. While the incident is undoubtedly a distressing event for Mr Balaban, this close shave with disaster lends a stark reminder to all about the precariousness of life and the importance of fire safety measures. The community has already begun pouring in support and solidarity for Mr Balaban in the face of this tragedy. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-05-11 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Coalition Fractures as Prayut's Party Denied Key Defence Portfolio File photo courtesy: Thay Rath Tensions within Thailand's current ruling coalition surfaced today, as the Ruam Thai Sang Chart party, led by former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha, expressed discontent over being denied a key defence portfolio in the latest cabinet reshuffle. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1327014-coalition-fractures-as-prayuts-party-denied-key-defence-portfolio/