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Bangkok Police Clamp Down on Taxi Driver Misconduct in Tourist Hotspots Pictures courtesy of Tourist Police Bureau Facebook In a concerted effort to safeguard Bangkok's reputation as a welcoming city for tourists, law enforcement is rigorously cracking down on unscrupulous taxi drivers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361948-bangkok-police-clamp-down-on-taxi-driver-misconduct-in-tourist-hotspots/

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 28 May 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1361942-thailand-live-wednesday-28-may-2025/

Vietnamese Sex Workers Surge in Bangkok Amid Visa Policy Concerns File photo for reference only A startling report has uncovered a dramatic increase in Vietnamese sex workers, now surpassing Thai nationals in Bangkok's infamous sex trade. This shift is largely linked to Thailand's inviting tourist visa policies, which have inadvertently turned the kingdom into a hub for foreign sex workers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361938-vietnamese-sex-workers-surge-in-bangkok-amid-visa-policy-concerns/

Drunk Taxi Driver Crashes Through Government House Fence Picture courtesy of Daily News In the early hours of the morning, a taxi driver crashed through the fence of Thailand's Government House, causing significant property damage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361912-drunk-taxi-driver-crashes-through-government-house-fence/

Picture courtesy of Daily News In the early hours of the morning, a taxi driver crashed through the fence of Thailand's Government House, causing significant property damage. The driver later admitted to being intoxicated. Police from Dusit Police Station took him into custody and began legal proceedings. At 3:30 AM on May 27, officers from Dusit Police Station received a report that a taxi had crashed into the wall of the Government House on Phitsanulok Road. When police arrived at the scene, they found a green-and-yellow taxi, license plate 1 มข 1538 Bangkok, had smashed into the Government House fence, causing noticeable damage. The driver was identified as Mr Siwasit, 59 years old. A search of the vehicle found nothing illegal. However, while speaking with the driver, officers smelled alcohol and observed clear signs of intoxication. Mr Siwasit admitted that he had been drinking. Police took Mr Siwasit to Dusit Police Station and administered a breathalyser test, which showed a blood alcohol level of 195 milligrams per cent, well above the legal limit. He was charged accordingly, and legal action is now underway. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-05-27

Couple Scammed in Second-Hand Car Purchase Fiasco Picture courtesy of Daily News In a bewildering scam, a Thai couple found themselves out of pocket and embroiled in a legal quandary after an attempted purchase of a second-hand pickup truck. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361908-couple-scammed-in-second-hand-car-purchase-fiasco/

Picture courtesy of Daily News In a bewildering scam, a Thai couple found themselves out of pocket and embroiled in a legal quandary after an attempted purchase of a second-hand pickup truck. Mr. Nop, 27, and his heavily pregnant wife, Ms. A, 29, had agreed to buy a Toyota Rocco for 640,000 baht, sourced through a Facebook page promoting repossessed vehicles. They had already paid a 7,000 baht deposit, with plans to transfer the remaining 627,000 baht upon collection. During the handover on 23rd May, at a petrol station in Bang Phli, the situation took a dramatic turn. Moments after Ms. A transferred the funds, ostensibly to the vehicle owner’s account, a man named Santi accused the couple of transferring money to the wrong account before driving the truck away, leaving Ms. A inside. Mr. Nop acted swiftly, jumping onto the truck bed and breaking a window to stop Santi, who subsequently fled. The local police later arrived but deemed Santi and an associate, Tanongsak, as victims and rightful vehicle owners, refusing to proceed with any charges against them. Feeling unjustly treated, the couple sought assistance from a social justice advocacy foundation. Lawyer Chanchai, representing the foundation, vowed to pursue charges of fraud and unlawful detention against the alleged scammers, urging caution for future buyers. This cautionary tale warns potential buyers against too-good-to-be-true deals on vehicles advertised at half price. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-05-27

Thai PM Paetongtarn Faces Dilemma Over Compensation Order Composite courtesy of Daily News In a complex political situation, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra must decide whether to enforce a court ruling that her aunt, former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, pay 10 billion baht in compensation. If she fails to act, it could lead to allegations of neglect of duty. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361900-thai-pm-paetongtarn-faces-dilemma-over-compensation-order/

Composite courtesy of Daily News In a complex political situation, Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra must decide whether to enforce a court ruling that her aunt, former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, pay 10 billion baht in compensation. If she fails to act, it could lead to allegations of neglect of duty. Rumours circulated that Thaksin Shinawatra, another former PM, had left the country. However, Paetongtarn assured the public that he remains in Thailand. Questions have emerged about her recent trip to the UK, with speculation suggesting it might relate to Thaksin's affairs. Paetongtarn dismissed these claims, stating her visit was for her children's schooling. On 27th May, Thaksin is scheduled to deliver a speech on "Transnational Crime and Drug Challenges" in his first public appearance in weeks. This follows a Supreme Administrative Court ruling that holds Yingluck responsible for losses from the rice pledging scheme. Opposition party leaders question the government's stance on drug policies and express concerns about Paetongtarn's leadership, fearing her actions are overshadowed by Thaksin. They urge the current administration to clarify its drug strategy beyond past controversial measures, particularly criticised by the international community. As Thailand's parliament prepares for a special session to discuss the national budget, the political focus is on whether the Senate will approve crucial appointments against the backdrop of ongoing controversies. The responsibilities now rest heavily on Prime Minister Paetongtarn, as she must issue new orders per the court's decision, potentially facing legal challenges if she doesn’t act promptly. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-05-27

Brutal Attack: Boyfriend Slashes Legs and Stabs Feet of Former Mor Lam Dancer Picture courtesy of Thai Rath In a harrowing incident, a former Thai dancer was forced to leap from her dormitory to escape her violent boyfriend. The 27-year-old woman, known as Aomsin, suffered severe injuries after being assaulted by her partner, who used a knife to cut her legs and stab her foot. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361891-brutal-attack-boyfriend-slashes-legs-and-stabs-feet-of-former-mor-lam-dancer/

Picture courtesy of Thairath In a harrowing incident, a former Thai dancer was forced to leap from her dormitory to escape her violent boyfriend. The 27-year-old woman, known as Aomsin, suffered severe injuries after being assaulted by her partner, who used a knife to cut her legs and stab her foot. The events unfolded on 24th May in Udon Thani. Aomsin's mother, Supinya Akkadee, informed the media about her daughter's ordeal, which included being beaten repeatedly and threatened. The violence erupted after the woman discovered her boyfriend's infidelity. The 26-year-old perpetrator not only assaulted Aomsin but also stole her Oppo smartphone and room key card. Aomsin had been in the relationship for a little over two months. Initially, their relationship seemed caring, but it quickly turned abusive, culminating in the recent brutal attack. Fleeing from the escalating violence, Aomsin managed to escape and seek help, later reporting the incident to the police in Phen District, Udon Thani. Further investigations revealed that the accused had a history of abusing women, often while intoxicated, and was known for his jealous behaviour. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Rath 2025-05-27

Malaysia's PM Thanks Thaksin at ASEAN Summit for Myanmar Efforts Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Malaysian Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, opened the 46th ASEAN Summit by acknowledging the vital role of Thaksin Shinawatra, a former Thai Prime Minister, leading Malaysia's advisory panel in addressing the Myanmar crisis. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361881-malaysias-pm-thanks-thaksin-at-asean-summit-for-myanmar-efforts/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Malaysian Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, opened the 46th ASEAN Summit by acknowledging the vital role of Thaksin Shinawatra, a former Thai Prime Minister, leading Malaysia's advisory panel in addressing the Myanmar crisis. In a gathering filled with media from ASEAN and beyond, Anwar credited the team's efforts, particularly during the third meeting in Bangkok, as a significant leap forward, despite challenges. Anwar called for ASEAN leaders to unite and bolster the community through "Inclusivity and Sustainability". He expressed optimism about ASEAN's capacity to navigate geopolitical and trade pressures, notably from US tariff hikes, announcing the formation of a Geo-economics Task Force to tackle such issues. The summit also marked the first ASEAN-GCC-China Summit, a symbolic move towards global multi-polar partnerships, expected to yield widespread positive impacts. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Siam Rath 2025-05-27

UPDATE: British Fugitive Captured in Thailand After High-Stakes Koh Samui Chase Picture courtesy of CH7 News A British fugitive, Mr. Kieran, aged 38, was dramatically arrested today on Thailand’s Koh Samui. He is wanted back in the UK for a violent robbery. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361698-british-fugitives-arrested-for-robbery-fraud-linked-to-nominee-businesses-on-koh-samui/page/3/#findComment-19827737

UPDATE: British Fugitive Captured in Thailand After High-Stakes Koh Samui Chase Picture courtesy of CH7 News A British fugitive, Mr. Kieran, aged 38, was dramatically arrested today on Thailand’s Koh Samui. He is wanted back in the UK for a violent robbery. His arrest was a collaborative effort between local authorities and the Crime Suppression Division, following a dedicated request from the UK's National Crime Agency (NCA) to extradite him. Mr. Kieran had been residing in Bo Phut, a picturesque subdistrict on the popular tourist haven, with his Ukrainian girlfriend. Thai police swiftly gathered evidence of his whereabouts and obtained a search warrant from the Koh Samui Provincial Court. However, seizing the elusive suspect wasn't straightforward, as the couple had vacated their residence on a motorcycle. A high-stakes pursuit unfolded, culminating in his apprehension at a local pier. The arrest was a coordinated strike between the Office of the Attorney General in Thailand and the UK’s NCA, underscoring the strong international cooperation in tackling cross-border crime. Despite the solid foundation for the arrest, Mr. Kieran responded by denying all charges during his initial questioning, a twist in the tale that may entangle the legal process. The case now progresses to legal proceedings, with the suspect looking at possible extradition to face justice in the UK. This incident highlights the proactive stance by Thai and UK authorities in ensuring international fugitives are held accountable. It serves as a chilling reminder of the reach of justice beyond borders. Koh Samui, traditionally renowned for its picturesque beaches, has recently gained attention for its involvement in an international criminal case. Although the tranquil island remains a popular destination for tourists, it maintains a strict vigilance to prevent individuals from using it as a sanctuary from legal prosecution. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-05-27

Jet-Ski Operator Nabbed in Wild Phuket Clash Video screenshot from the attack via Phuket News A jet-ski rental operator is in hot water after a heated road clash in Phuket, where he lashed out with a helmet on an unsuspecting elderly driver. The altercation erupted yesterday morning on Thepkrasattri Road, Thalang, and ignited social media after being caught on camera. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361875-jet-ski-operator-nabbed-in-wild-phuket-clash/

Video screenshot from the attack via Phuket News A jet-ski rental operator is in hot water after a heated road clash in Phuket, where he lashed out with a helmet on an unsuspecting elderly driver. The altercation erupted yesterday morning on Thepkrasattri Road, Thalang, and ignited social media after being caught on camera. The fracas unfolded around 10.30am, capturing the moment 45-year-old Wisan Ketruangruang, hailing from Chachoengsao province, swung a helmet at the elderly three-wheeler driver. The confrontation happened near Mae Sompong Market and took a violent turn following a traffic altercation. By early afternoon, Thalang police had collared Wisan, arresting him near a flower shop close to the incident scene. Tests revealed Wisan was under the influence, with a blood alcohol level of 96 milligrams percent. Further, hospital tests confirmed traces of methamphetamine, compounding his legal woes. Wisan now faces charges of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and illegal methamphetamine use. Meanwhile, police efforts to track down the elderly victim remain underway, urging anyone with information to step forward. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-27

UPDATE: Online Classes Resume at Samut Prakan School Amid COVID Surge Picture courtesy of TNA MCOT Ratchawinit Bangkaeo School in Samut Prakan has shut its doors, opting for online classes from 26 to 28 May. This urgent shift comes in response to a sharp increase in COVID-19 cases, particularly among students. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361793-covid-19-cases-in-thailand-surge-to-ten-times-flu-levels/#findComment-19827708

Online Classes Resume at Samut Prakan School Amid COVID Surge Picture courtesy of TNA MCOT Ratchawinit Bangkaeo School in Samut Prakan has shut its doors, opting for online classes from 26 to 28 May. This urgent shift comes in response to a sharp increase in COVID-19 cases, particularly among students. With the virus on the rise again, school officials are prioritising the health and safety of pupils and staff. The Department of Disease Control's report for 18-24 May uncovered over 53,000 new COVID infections nationwide, with roughly 2,800 hospitalised cases and five fatalities. Nationwide, this year's COVID case count has soared beyond 187,000. Bangkok is leading the tally with 9,575 new cases, followed closely by Chonburi. High infection rates were found among working adults, the elderly, and young children. Dr. Jirraruj Chomchey, a pediatric respiratory expert, has taken to Facebook, disclosing alarming trends in child COVID cases since schools reopened two weeks ago. Shockingly, COVID-19 is now the top ailment affecting children, with infants under one being critically vulnerable and often needing hospital care. Adding to the woes, Dr. Jirraruj has identified a spike in seasonal illnesses coinciding with the rainy season, including croup, influenza B, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). He forecasts these will multiply in the coming fortnight, presenting a tough battle for very young kids already at risk. The combination of ongoing COVID-19 and other viruses sets a daunting hurdle for hospitals bracing to meet the demands of the vulnerable. Adapted by ASEAN Now from TNA MCOT 2025-05-27

Motorist's DIY Paint Job Sent Parking Back to Red in Udon Thani Social media picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In a bid to boost business for a local food stall, a motorist took a brush in hand and painted over a no-parking kerb in Udon Thani, landing himself a fine. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361871-motorists-diy-paint-job-sent-parking-back-to-red-in-udon-thani/

Social media picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In a bid to boost business for a local food stall, a motorist took a brush in hand and painted over a no-parking kerb in Udon Thani, landing himself a fine. The 45-year-old auto mechanic believed the lack of parking was costing the food outlet customers. His solution? Transform the red-and-white no-parking marks with a splash of grey paint. Despite his intentions, the eatery's owner was surprised by the act, voicing her contentment with her customer numbers and denying any connection to the kerb-painter. “He just came and did it on his own,” she clarified, noting that business was already steady without his intervention. Municipal officers and police arrived to witness the handiwork and hear the man's defence of goodwill. His actions, however, contravened local regulations, and he faced an undisclosed fine potentially up to 5,000 baht, as per Thai law regarding the tampering of public signage or infrastructure. The peculiar incident serves as a reminder of the legal boundaries regarding public property modifications. Painting kerbs to alter traffic rules, even with the best of intentions, breaches these boundaries and is subject to legal action. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-27

Thaksin's Drug Speech Stirs Storm Over Infamous 2003 Killings File photo courtesy courtesy of Facebook sorrayuth9115 Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is set to deliver a lecture on drug suppression at the Office of Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) on Tuesday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361869-thaksins-drug-speech-stirs-storm-over-infamous-2003-killings/

File photo courtesy courtesy of Facebook sorrayuth9115 Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is set to deliver a lecture on drug suppression at the Office of Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) on Tuesday. The invitation for Thaksin, who is speaking as an adviser to the ASEAN chair, has ignited controversy due to his notorious "war on drugs" in 2003. The former leader's campaign, which led to over 2,500 alleged extrajudicial killings, is still fresh in the minds of many. Justice Minister Pol Col Tawee Sodsong announced on Monday that Thaksin would participate in the event titled "Narcotics and Transnational Crime: Perspectives and Challenges." However, this decision has been met with stern disapproval from various quarters, questioning the appropriateness given Thaksin's contested past in drug policy. Political activist Nitithorn Lumlua expressed strong reservations, questioning the ethics of this government move. He cited potential constitutional breaches, specifically Section 160, along with current controversies surrounding Thaksin's extended stay at the Police General Hospital during his prison sentence. Nitithorn dismissed speculations that the engagement was a ploy to counter rumours of Thaksin's escape from Thailand, suggesting the public has moved beyond that issue. Former Democrat MP Thepthai Senpong also voiced his concerns through social media, doubting any change in Thaksin's stance on drug suppression since his tenure as Prime Minister. Thepthai emphasised that the government errs by adopting Thaksin's approach as a model, warning it could heighten disputes with human rights organisations domestically and internationally. The implications of Thaksin's speech reach beyond his participation, raising significant questions about the direction of Thailand's current drug policy. Critics fear a return to draconian measures, potentially straining international relations and internal affairs. The government stands at a crossroad, balancing its agenda against a backdrop of contentious historical actions. The event, occurring at a pivotal moment, will indeed be watched closely by both supporters and detractors. The outcome could influence the nation's ongoing battle with narcotics and the reputation of current drug suppression strategies. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-27

Bangkok residents Left Homeless: Frustration Mounts Two Months Post-Quake Picture courtesy of Amarin TV Two months have elapsed since the devastating earthquake on March 28, yet residents of a 900-unit condominium in the Chokchai Ruammit area find themselves in turmoil. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361868-bangkok-residents-left-homeless-frustration-mounts-two-months-post-quake/

Picture courtesy of Amarin TV Two months have elapsed since the devastating earthquake on March 28, yet residents of a 900-unit condominium in the Chokchai Ruammit area find themselves in turmoil. Their fury is directed at the building's management as they remain barred from returning to their homes. The tangled situation has forced them to turn to the law. Social media is abuzz, with the popular page “If You Want to be Famous, We will Make it Happen for You” Part 6 shedding light on their plight. Today, condo residents have rallied to lodge a formal complaint with Thailand's Sutthisan police station. The plan is to initiate legal action against the building's management, whom they accuse of negligence. The ripple effects of the earthquake persist, with critical infrastructure like the building's elevators still in disrepair, making them unusable. Despite visible cracks in the parking lot walls, repairs are nowhere in sight. To compound the situation, management allegedly utilises security personnel to exert control over condo owners. In a poignant development, one resident, referred to as Mr. S, has lodged a complaint highlighting a severe lack of basic amenities, specifically electricity and water, in his unit since the tremor hit. The condo's management has reportedly been unresponsive, continuously postponing necessary repairs. This has led Mr. S and his family to seek legal avenues. Amid their growing frustration, residents urge swift intervention and solutions. The pressing need for regular utility services and habitable conditions remains their biggest challenge. The legal process initiated today marks a significant move in their quest for aiding in restoring their lives disrupted by nature's fury. The situation highlights ongoing struggles faced by quake-affected residents seeking a return to normalcy. As they await justice and repairs, their calls for accountability and transparent management remain stark. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-05-27