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Thai Woman Arrested for Extorting British Husband Pictures via Matichon, PPTV HD Thai police arrested a woman, Sudarat, in Samut Prakarn province near Bangkok on May 6 for allegedly abusing her seven-year-old daughter in order to extract money from her British husband, Adrian. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326714-thai-woman-arrested-for-extorting-british-husband/

Thai police arrested a woman, Sudarat, in Samut Prakarn province near Bangkok on May 6 for allegedly abusing her seven-year-old daughter in order to extract money from her British husband, Adrian. The arrest followed the submission of a complaint by community leader Somsri Ngamprasert on Adrian's behalf. Adrian reportedly could no longer stand by while Sudarat harmed their daughter during their video call conversations, threatening to kill the child in the absence of a money transfer. For evidence, he recorded their video calls, eventually sharing them with Sudarat’s ex-husband, which led to legal action. Videos revealed horrific abuse, including threats of death and even an incident where Sudarat pointed a gun at her daughter's head. Sudarat had fled when authorities initially attempted to rescue the child but was eventually tracked down and arrested at a rented space. Somsri clarified that Sudarat had a 14-year-old son from a previous relationship before marrying Adrian. Adrian moved back to the UK for work and dutifully sent Sudarat money each month for their daughter's upkeep. However, Sudarat began demanding more money, abusing the girl bi-weekly during video calls when he didn't comply. Sudarat's son also claimed to have been abused by his mother. He expressed fears for his sister's safety and suggested his mother might have a mental illness. He hoped the relevant parties would assist her in getting the necessary treatment. Sudarat is currently under interrogation at the Bangpu Police Station. Charges against her are pending. Adrian is planning a trip to Thailand next month to rescue his daughter and bring her back to the UK. Pictures via Matichon, PPTV HD -- 2024-05-07 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

AoT Speeds Up Suvarnabhumi Airport Expansion to Meet Growing Demand Picture courtesy of Quora. The Airports of Thailand (AoT) is updating its development plans for Suvarnabhumi International Airport to accelerate terminal expansion in view of surging passenger numbers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326713-aot-speeds-up-suvarnabhumi-airport-expansion-to-meet-growing-demand/

Picture courtesy of Quora. The Airports of Thailand (AoT) is updating its development plans for Suvarnabhumi International Airport to accelerate terminal expansion in view of surging passenger numbers. According to AoT director, Kirati Kijmanawat, the revised master plan outlines development over the next decade and prioritizes terminal expansions and new construction to match rapid air traffic increase. The plan focuses on three main projects: the western terminal expansion, a new southern terminal, and the Satellite 2 building development. The ongoing expansion of the eastern side of the main terminal is on schedule. This 10 billion baht project, set to increase the airport’s total capacity from 60 million to 75 million passengers, has revised construction blueprints and will start seeking construction bids by August at the latest. Additionally, a new southern terminal is expected due to continually rising air travel demand. This project, predicted to take four years, is poised for government approval. Don Mueang International Airport, Thailand's second-largest hub, is also progressing with its expansion. The AoT has budgeted 36 billion baht for the construction of a new international terminal on the site of a defunct domestic terminal. The existing international terminals will be united and converted into a domestic terminal. AoT oversees six primary airports: Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, Krabi, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai. The total projected traffic across these facilities is likely to reach 140 million passengers this year, close to pre-pandemic levels. -- 2024-05-07 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai EV Market Remains Unfazed by European Sales Downturn File photo courtesy of Wikipedia for reference only. Contrary to an 11% slump in European electric vehicle (EV) sales, Thai business operators maintain an optimistic outlook for the local growth of the EV market. They attribute this optimism to unique local conditions, differentiating them from the European market. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326710-thai-ev-market-remains-unfazed-by-european-sales-downturn/

File photo courtesy of Wikipedia for reference only. Contrary to an 11% slump in European electric vehicle (EV) sales, Thai business operators maintain an optimistic outlook for the local growth of the EV market. They attribute this optimism to unique local conditions, differentiating them from the European market. High insurance and repair costs, inadequate charging facilities, and termination of governmental EV subsidies have contributed to the European market downturn, according to Bloomberg. However, Thailand entrepreneurs foresee ongoing robust growth in the local EV market. Sharge Management Co’s MD, Peerapatr Sirichantaropart, identifies competitive EV pricing, brand diversity, and substantial charging facilities as key to the Thai market's prospective growth. A 'package' labeled EV3.5 offers subsidies, reduced import duties for completely assembled cars, and a cut in excise tax. As part of the package, EV manufacturers must commence local production by 2026. It is anticipated that this should make EVs more price-accessible, thus broadening their buyer base. The sentiment was echoed by Surapong Paisitpatanapong, Vice-Chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), who anticipates that large-scale local production will help lower EV prices. Significantly affecting EV purchasing decisions, underlined Vasu Klomkliang, Senior VP for Strategy and Investment Planning at Energy Absolute Plc, is the availability of charging infrastructure. He added that unique to the Thai EV market are cheaper electricity costs and home charging-friendly laws. However, the FTI advises against drawing early conclusions, suggesting a 4-5 year wait for a more definitive understanding of the Thai EV market. Factors such as geopolitical conflicts and higher energy costs, not just ending subsidies, contribute to decreasing EV sales in Europe, noted Surapong. Support from the government, domestic production, and a favourable economic climate signify a promising future for Thailand's EV market despite the recent European downturn. -- 2024-05-07 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Braces for Severe Summer Storms File photo for reference only Thailand's Meteorological Department (TMD) has warned of severe summer storms characterised by thunderstorms, strong winds, and potential hail, expected to batter several provinces starting today, May 7. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326708-thailand-braces-for-severe-summer-storms/

File photo for reference only Thailand's Meteorological Department (TMD) has warned of severe summer storms characterised by thunderstorms, strong winds, and potential hail, expected to batter several provinces starting today, May 7. The alert urges residents to take precautions against the anticipated harsh weather conditions. Currently, the upper regions of Thailand are experiencing extreme heat, which creates the perfect environment for storm development. These storms could lead to heavy rainfall, high winds and possible hailstorms accompanied by lightning strikes. Locals are advised to steer clear of open areas and unstable structures like large trees and billboards which can be easily destabilised by the storm. Farmers have also been cautioned as their crops and livestock could be at risk. From May 8 to 10, continuing southerly winds are expected to cover the upper part of the country, thereby maintaining thunderstorm conditions. Regions that could be affected today include northern, northeastern, central and eastern provinces. The list includes major cities such as Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Loei, Nong Khai, and Bangkok, among others. Residents are advised to stay informed through the TMD website or its 24-hour hotline for further updates. -- 2024-05-07 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Polish Biker and Sidecar Driver Hurt in Thailand Accident Picture courtesy of Siam Rath A Polish motorcyclist and a Thai sidecar driver were seriously injured in an accident in Sattahip. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326707-polish-biker-and-sidecar-driver-hurt-in-thailand-accident/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath A Polish motorcyclist and a Thai sidecar driver were seriously injured in an accident in Sattahip suburb, Thailand yesterday. The collision occurred outside a construction store along Sukhumvit Road. The Na Jomtien Police and members of the local Sattahip Sawang Rojanatham Foundation rushed to the scene upon notification of the accident. The two injured men, a 19 year-old Polish national, Benjamin Kesik, and a 35 year-old sidecar driver identified as Mong, were found at the crash site. Kesik sustained a severe open wound on his left knee and multiple scrapes over his body, evidently from his damaged Kawasaki motorcycle. He was rushed to the Bangkok Pattaya Hospital for treatment. Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Mong, who was selling roti from his modified Honda Wave motorcycle, suffered from numerous scrapes. He was given medical attention at the Wat Yansangwararam Woramahawihan Hospital. A dashboard camera footage from a trailing vehicle revealed the cause of the accident. The Polish biker was reportedly speeding as Mong made a sudden U-turn into his path, leading to the crash. The accident hurled both motorcyclists and their vehicles in opposite directions. Na Jomtien police are scrutinizing the footage and will summon the parties once they have recovered for legal proceedings. All reported details are based on preliminary information, subject to change as the investigation continues. -- 2024-05-07 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket Governor Inspects Odor-Reducing Canal Aerator File photo courtesy of ThaiPBS Over the weekend, Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat inspected the recently installed canal aerator in Klong Pak Bang, Kamala. This action has been taken to mitigate the foul smell resulting from the canal. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326706-phuket-governor-inspects-odor-reducing-canal-aerator/

File photo courtesy of ThaiPBS Over the weekend, Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat inspected the recently installed canal aerator in Klong Pak Bang, Kamala. This action has been taken to mitigate the foul smell resulting from the canal. Among the accompanying officials were Phuket MP Chalermphong Saengdee, Advisor to the Governor of Phuket Province Dr. Somkid Chokong, and Deputy Chief of the Kamala Tambon Administrative Organisation, Santhat Khummit. The aerator, provided by Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi’s Energy Research Center, functions on solar power, infusing about 450 litres of oxygen per minute into the canal. It is expected to substantially improve the canal’s water quality. Sophon has ordered the installation of two more machines within a year, aiming to enhance wastewater management in the canal. However, despite these efforts, wastewater dumping continues to tarnish the canal. The governor urged local businesses and residents to assist in maintaining clean water bodies. He stressed incorporating wastewater management systems into construction projects to support sustainable environmental conservation. The report, however, did not address any recent actions taken to inspect areas that might be unlawfully discharging untreated wastewater into the canal. The smelly, frequently backed-up canal flows into Kamala Beach. In February, another case of black water was reported on Kamala Beach, raising health concerns for tourists. -- 2024-05-07 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Luxury Mercedes Maybach Involved in 11.2M Baht Accident Picture courtesy of Khaosod A crash involving a custom Mercedes-Benz S580e Maybach and a pickup truck recently surfaced online, causing shockwaves due to the resulting 11.2 million baht worth of damage sustained by the luxury vehicle. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326704-luxury-mercedes-maybach-involved-in-112m-baht-accident/

A crash involving a custom Mercedes-Benz S580e Maybach and a pickup truck recently surfaced online, causing shockwaves due to the resulting 11.2 million baht worth of damage sustained by the luxury vehicle. Images of the mishap were published on TikTok by a user named Banknitikorn, spurring comments and concerns about the hefty repair costs of the exclusive car, not assembled in Thailand. The vehicle, distinguished by a two-tone paint job valued at around 1 million baht, suffered substantial damages in the rear. Furthermore, the pickup truck bore significant impact at the front, leading to severe deformation. Yet, despite the visible damage to both vehicles, reactions of the online community centered mostly around the expensive Mercedes. Video screenshot The accident sparked a range of sentiments, from dismay and sympathy to light-hearted humor. Some users humorously questioned if the sale of the pickup truck, referred to as Father Onew, would suffice to cover the Maybach's repair costs. This follows Mercedes-Benz's policy of preferentially replacing parts rather than repairing them following an accident. Others offered words of encouragement, optimistically looking forward to a generous response from the insurance company. This incident has sparked discussions about the high maintenance and repair costs of luxury vehicles, and the burden faced by those involved in accidents with such high-value cars. This unique accident, now viral, serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and the shared empathy within the online community during challenging times. TOP Picture courtesy of Khaosod -- 2024-05-07 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket Road Expansion to Alleviate Traffic Woes Picture for reference only courtesy or bouncenationkenya Traffic congestion in Phuket might soon be alleviated, thanks to the expansion of a small road. The road, linking Wat Tha Reua to Baan Manik in Cherng Talay, has been widened as a solution to the high traffic on Thepkrasattri Road and Srisoonthorn Road. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326703-phuket-road-expansion-to-alleviate-traffic-woes/

Traffic congestion in Phuket might soon be alleviated, thanks to the expansion of a small road. The road, linking Wat Tha Reua to Baan Manik in Cherng Talay, has been widened as a solution to the high traffic on Thepkrasattri Road and Srisoonthorn Road. Prior to the expansion, Route 3030, a section merging into Thepkrasattri Road, was just a few metres wide, causing vehicular issues and accidents. It has now been widened to five meters and resurfaced, making it a more convenient drive for motorists. Phuket Governor, Sophon Suwannarat expressed gratitude to the landowner for allowing the road expansion. This move aligns with the governor's 'One Road, One Tambon' policy, which aims to upgrade Phuket’s secondary road network, reducing traffic on primary roads. Interestingly, this expanded stretch may serve as a shortcut between Phuket Town and the airport, as per an official report. Phuket's road expansion initiative took off earlier this year, with Srisoonthorn Municipality, the local Department of Rural Roads and the Department of Lands working in collaboration. The Municipality recently thanked PNK Construction Co, Ltd for providing the machinery needed for the road widening and resurfacing. Governor Sophon is urging more residents to join hands in developing secondary routes across Phuket to curb traffic congestion further. Indeed, another initiative is already in progress, where a new road is being constructed from Kathu to Srisoonthorn, thanks to local landowners who generously donated the necessary land for the road. Picture for reference only courtesy or bouncenationkenya -- 2024-05-07 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Myanmar Junta Bars Men From Working Abroad Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand. Picture courtesy of The Irrawaddy Myanmar's military junta has temporarily halted the issuing of work permits for men seeking employment overseas from May 1. This comes amid forced military recruitment, leading thousands to leave the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326702-myanmar-junta-bars-men-from-working-abroad/

Myanmar's military junta has temporarily halted the issuing of work permits for men seeking employment overseas from May 1. This comes amid forced military recruitment, leading thousands to leave the country. However, the suspension does not affect those who have already received permission to work abroad. The restriction has been confirmed by Myanmar Overseas Employment Agencies Federation (MOEAF), but no specific lift date has been given. The military regime mentioned enforcing the Conscription Law from Feb. 10, demanding men aged 18 to 35 and women between 18 to 27 to join the military. The junta has even resorted to forcibly taking young men from homes and streets to enforce their law. This has led many citizens to seek work abroad, mainly in neighboring countries like Thailand and Malaysia. The ban has posed severe difficulties for young people in Myanmar who have invested significant efforts in preparing for overseas jobs, including learning new languages and other necessary skills. An immense disappointment is expressed among youths whose work plans have been disrupted. This ban has even driven some to join the People's Defense Force and fight against the military junta, the only remaining option for many. TOP: Myanmar migrant workers in Thailand. Picture courtesy of The Irrawaddy -- 2024-05-07 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Tuesday 7 May 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326701-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-7-may-2024/

A 14-year-old boy died on Sunday night and his friend was injured in an explosion caused by a homemade explosive device thrown by youths riding another bike. The boy had a severe wound to the head. Police arrested three 14 year olds who later confessed to making the devices. A motorcyclist died in hospital yesterday after falling into a drainage system in the Thon Buri area on Sunday, The drain was left open after the lid was stolen, The incident came less than a week after a man fell into a poorly covered 15-metre-deep tube well on a road divider and died in Lat Phrao district. Locally The department of transport has applied for a budget of over 470 million baht next year to build a new flight training centre in Hua Hin. The idea is to bring domestic aviation training to international standards. The department is to apply for a budget to purchase x 2 training helicopters which will be used at the new center. Around the region In Myanmar: An independent armed group said yesterday claimed it had captured a military command and taken hundreds of junta personnel prisoner in western Rakhine state. Clashes have rocked Rakhine since the Arakan Army attacked security forces last November, ending a ceasefire that had largely held since the junta's coup in 2021. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny some thundershowers, 36C Bangkok: Thundershowers, 35C Pattaya: Bright with thundershowers, 33C Phuket and the south:sunny, partly cloudy, 34C Hua Hin: Bright but cloudy, with isolated showers, 35C AQIYellow to Orange, moderate to high Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Royal Coast Review, Kulsawek Sawekwannakorn, Thainewsroom.com, 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 2024-05-07 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Man Arrested for Attempted Robbery and Assault at Mall Car Park Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A 46-year-old man was apprehended for attempting to rob a woman and assaulting her at a department store's car park in the Rangsit area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326699-man-arrested-for-attempted-robbery-and-assault-at-mall-car-park/

Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A 46-year-old man was apprehended for attempting to rob a woman and assaulting her at a department store's car park in the Rangsit area. The victim, identified as Ms. Jutharat, aged 36, was attacked as she was getting into her Mercedes Benz sedan last evening. The suspect, Mr. Kantinan Kulsriroj, threatened Ms. Jutharat with a 30cm knife, intending to steal her handbag and car. Police were able to apprehend him swiftly at a nearby mall in the Pathum Thani area thanks to the surveillance footage from cameras in the lot. Inspector Pol. Lt. Col. Wichaya Pan-ngam of Chulalongkorn Pratunam provincial police station stated that Kulsriroj was found hiding in the back seat of his wife's car, with the knife from the robbery still in his possession. He had reportedly contacted his wife and asked her to come pick him up from the mall, but the police found him before her arrival. Kulsriroj confessed to the crime, stating that he had an argument with his wife two days prior and left home. His gambling addiction pushed him to attempt the robbery. Ms. Jutharat informed the police that as she was getting into her car, the attacker held her at knifepoint. Realising she wasn't alone, she called for help from two nearby men, provoking Kulsriroj to attack her. She however escaped a serious injury when the knife hit the waistband of her pants. After startling the attacker with the car's horn accidentally, she sustained a slash on her cheek before he ran off with her bag. She managed to retrieve her handbag after a short chase. -- 2024-05-07 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Man Destroys Bottles at Bang Saen Beach, Raising Safety Concerns File photo courtesy of Cornwall live for reference only. An incident causing safety concerns occurred at Bang Saen Beach in Chon Buri province when a man was caught smashing bottles on the shoreline, posing a danger to beach visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326696-man-destroys-bottles-at-bang-saen-beach-raising-safety-concerns/

An incident causing safety concerns occurred at Bang Saen Beach in Chon Buri province when a man was caught smashing bottles on the shoreline, posing a danger to beach visitors. This reckless behavior has led locals and authorities to demand improved supervision and care for those with mental health issues. A video posted today on Je Moi v-news shows the man in question using a rock to break bottles at the beach. Many social media users expressed concern for the safety of visitors to the well-known tourist spot due to the broken glass. A food vendor at the beach, 70-year-old Amorn Imura, identified the man as a local who often exhibits erratic behavior but is largely ignored due to apparent mental health issues. She fears the broken glass could potentially injure tourists, an incident that has happened in the past according to local rescue teams. However, she admits she did not witness the described event. A tourist, Kowit Yodphet, who saw the disturbing video, stresses the danger posed by this act. He noted that many beachgoers don't wear shoes and might step on the broken glass. Kowit called on the man's family to provide him care and possibly seek medical help. This occurrence underlines the need to ensure the safety of tourist areas, both for visitors and locals who depend on tourism for their income. File photo courtesy of Cornwall live for reference only. -- 2024-05-07 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Air Pollution Skyrockets in Chiang Mai File photo courtesy of Thaiger Chiang Mai and multiple northern provinces in Thailand are contending with alarmingly high air pollution levels. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326695-air-pollution-skyrockets-in-chiang-mai/