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Four French nationals reported missing after a fishing trip in Thailand have been found safe. The men embarked from Jomtien Beach, heading for Koh Maravichai on May 1st, 2024. Their empty vessel was later discovered near Koh Si Chang, triggering a search operation. The missing men, identified as Adrien Simon (38), Mehdi Benchoula (47), Vincent Ferrer (30), and Stefan Stauat (32), were found unharmed on Koh Maravichai the next day. Various local agencies, including Pattaya Tourist Police and Pattaya Marine Rescue Volunteers, were involved in the rescue operation. The four men were subsequently transported to a nearby beach in Sattahip in good health. Mr. Simon explained the group went diving and fishing off Koh Maravichai, leaving their anchored boat unattended. In their absence, the boat came loose from its anchor and drifted away. Unable to locate the boat upon resurfacing, the men spent a night on the island until rescue services arrived. Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News -- 2024-05-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phuket Motorbike Accident Claims Life, Sparks Safety Concerns Picture for reference only. Courtesy of pexels.com via The Thaiger A fatal motorbike accident occurred in Phuket earlier today, raising concerns about road safety in the region. The incident happened when a Honda Wave motorbike crashed into a concrete table at the roadside, resulting in the death of a 45-year-old passenger, Wanna Songsri. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326430-phuket-motorbike-accident-claims-life-sparks-safety-concerns/

Picture for reference only. Courtesy of pexels.com via The Thaiger A fatal motorbike accident occurred in Phuket earlier today, raising concerns about road safety in the region. The incident happened when a Honda Wave motorbike crashed into a concrete table at the roadside, resulting in the death of a 45-year-old passenger, Wanna Songsri. The bike was driven by 44-year-old Nikorn Srirod who hails from Trang and reportedly fell asleep at the wheel. She was injured and rushed to Thalang Hospital. The accident happened in front of Mueang Mai City Pillar Shrine on Thepkrasattri Road at around 3.30 am. Authorities were alerted by Thalang police. This incident adds to the alarming statistics from the ThaiRSC, the national road safety agency which reported 60 fatalities and over 9,240 injuries in Phuket since the start of the year. Meanwhile, Phuket is also dealing with an escalating drug problem. The Phuket Provincial Narcotics Prevention and Suppression Centre committee reports a 6.21% increase in drug issues between October last year and March this year. The narcotics issue resulted in 1,335 arrests in 78 drug-related cases. In fact, there was a dramatic 50.89% increase in drug-related arrests from February to March, with most cases involving amphetamines and crystal methamphetamine known as ya ice. -- 2024-05-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian National Held for Visa Overstay at Phuket Airport File photo A 40-year-old Russian man was recently arrested at Phuket International Airport for overstaying his visa by 59 days. The arrest happened on Thursday (May 2nd) at the international departures terminal. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326429-russian-national-held-for-visa-overstay-at-phuket-airport/

Phuket Immigration Office, who revealed the incident to the media, detained the man before taking him to Sakoo Police Station, where he faced charges relating to his overstay. The precise details of these charges are currently unknown. Neither the man's name nor any statement from him was released by the Phuket Immigration Office or the individual himself. Top: File photo -- 2024-05-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

French Duo Arrested for Attempting to Break Police Motorbike Chain Picture courtesy of The Phuket Express Two French nationals were taken into custody in Patong on May 2nd, after attempting to break a police motorbike chain locked in a no-parking zone. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326427-french-duo-arrested-for-attempting-to-break-police-motorbike-chain/

Two French nationals were taken into custody in Patong on May 2nd, after attempting to break a police motorbike chain locked in a no-parking zone. A video showing the two men trying to break the chain using a rock near Patong Beach Road at Dolphin Field quickly gained traction on social media, leading to their swift arrest. The Patong Police confirmed that the unidentified men are French, and that they are now facing charges for damaging traffic police property without authorised consent. Picture courtesy of The Phuket Express -- 2024-05-03 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 3 May 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1326426-thailand-live-friday-3-may-2024/

28-year-old Thai Woman Pretends to be a Child to Avoid Theft Accusations Photo courtesy of The Thaiger A Thai woman, Chutimon Srinark, aged 28, was apprehended by the police for multiple thefts in Nonthaburi, a central province in Thailand. She deceitfully said she was just 13 to dodge any accusations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326399-28-year-old-thai-woman-pretends-to-be-a-child-to-avoid-theft-accusations/

The International Union of Sex Workers (IUSW) has revealed that Thailand is home to 250,000 sex workers, one of the highest numbers worldwide. Despite this, the profession remains illegal in the country and workers are lacking basic employment rights. Thailand listed among top 10 countries with highest number of sex workers worldwide Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326391-thailand-listed-among-top-10-countries-with-highest-number-of-sex-workers-worldwide/ File photo for reference only.

Alleged Misconduct by Chiang Mai Monk Under Probe A monk, serving as an Abbot in a temple in Chiang Mai Province's San Sai District, has been accused of inappropriate conduct involving teenage boys. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326383-alleged-misconduct-by-chiang-mai-monk-under-probe/

A monk, serving as an Abbot in a temple in Chiang Mai Province's San Sai District, has been accused of inappropriate conduct involving teenage boys. The villagers claim surfaced after pictures of the Abbot hugging and kissing several youngsters emerged, some of which were taken too closely on a bed. Some boys appeared to be still in school uniforms. It is believed that pictures were taken inside the temple. The complainants, villagers from Nong Chom Subdistrict, stated the monk had a 20-year affiliation with the temple, first as a deputy Abbot before taking over from his predecessor. The temple had five monks and novices and was frequently visited by local teenagers. Despite the monk's alleged flirty behavior, there had been no earlier dishonorable incidents. The incidents pictured could be seen in different ways. If it were children hugging or kissing the monk in exchange for small amounts of money, it might not be considered serious, as such actions occur in several temples. However, if the reality is beyond this, it would be unacceptable. An investigation into any complaints would likely clarify the situation. The Abbot, in spite of his flirty demeanor, was also considered a developer, contributing to villagers' faith in the temple. Following the allegations, Aree Phanchan, the director of the Chiang Mai Provincial Buddhism Office, pledged to collaborate with the Sangha monks to examine the issue. Phanchan thanked the community and media for assisting in monitoring Buddhism. Any subsequent action depends on the Sangha Administrative Committee's examination and interpretation of monastic discipline. Recent reports suggest that the monk has been unreachable since the allegations surfaced, with his phone turned off and personal belongings missing from the temple. The authorities are seeking further clarity, with the search for the monk still underway. -- 2024-05-02 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreign Woman's Body Found at Phuket Beach Picture courtesy of Phuket Tourist Police In a disturbing incident, an anonymous foreign woman's body appeared off the Phuket's Freedom Beach. The Karon police were alerted at around 2:45 pm, launching a prompt recovery operation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326381-foreign-womans-body-found-at-phuket-beach/

In a disturbing incident, an anonymous foreign woman's body appeared off the Phuket's Freedom Beach. The Karon police were alerted at around 2:45 pm, launching a prompt recovery operation. Rescue workers from Kusoldharm Foundation used a rubber dinghy to bring the body to the shore near Karon's Nong Harn Lake. The deceased woman, likely between 25-30 years old, had dark skin, short black curly hair, and was approximately 180 cm tall. She wore a seashell necklace and a corresponding bracelet, but no other clothes were found on her. There were no visible signs of struggle or injury on her body, which is currently at Vachira Phuket Hospital for further investigations. Police believe she drowned and hope genetic testing may assist in identification. In a similar case, a male corpse was found 500 meters off an island in Sattahip Bay on December 16 last year. A local fisherman alerted Sattahip police, who recovered the body clad only in black shorts. Their initial observations estimated that the man had been dead for three to five days, but there were no immediate signs of foul play. Picture courtesy of Phuket Tourist Police -- 2024-05-02 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian Man's Body Found in Bangkok Canal with Multiple Wrist Injuries Screenshot TV Channel 8 A Russian man's body was discovered in Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Canal yesterday, showing over ten cuts on his wrists. The man, identified as 40-year-old Asonov Konstantin, was found by local residents around 8 am, according to Bangrak Police Station officers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326380-russian-mans-body-found-in-bangkok-canal-with-multiple-wrist-injuries/

A Russian man's body was discovered in Bangkok's Hua Lamphong Canal yesterday, showing over ten cuts on his wrists. The man, identified as 40-year-old Asonov Konstantin, was found by local residents around 8 am, according to Bangrak Police Station officers. Konstantin, shirtless and wearing dark blue shorts, was found hanging from the canal's fence, tethered by a shoelace. Authorities identified him through a passport found in his trouser pocket. A broken glass bottle, with blood, was found near the scene, leading officers to estimate that Konstantin died one to two days before being found. Local residents said Konstantin appeared to be homeless, often seen sleeping on a nearby pavement and close to a local shrine. Many observed him talking to himself, hinting at possible mental health issues. While preliminary investigation suggests that Konstantin may have committed suicide, Thai authorities are keeping all options open and will carry out an in-depth probe into his death. His body has been moved to the Police General Hospital for an autopsy. The police are also working to reach out to his family for further arrangements. Screenshot TV Channel 8 -- 2024-05-02 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe The following video may be disturbing for some viewers. Discretion is advised

Tourism Industry Backs Reinstatement of 300 Baht Tourist Fee Thai tourism industry players are calling for the return of a 300 baht ($9) fee for incoming visitors. The funds raised are seen as critical to driving tourism development. The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) is set to discuss the matter with Sermsak Pongpanich, the incoming tourism minister. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326379-tourism-industry-backs-reinstatement-of-300-baht-tourist-fee/

Thai tourism industry players are calling for the return of a 300 baht ($9) fee for incoming visitors. The funds raised are seen as critical to driving tourism development. The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) is set to discuss the matter with Sermsak Pongpanich, the incoming tourism minister. TCT Vice President, Surawat Akaraworamat, emphasized a broad consensus among industry stakeholders on the matter. The Tourism Department currently faces a dearth of funds to adequately enforce 56 tourism-related standards, with only a 10 million baht ($300,000) budget earmarked annually. Surawat reaffirmed the need for the fee, dismissing Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s suggestion to shelve it to spur tourist numbers. Wuthichai Luangamornlert, CEO of Siam Park City Group, echoed this sentiment. “The $9 fee would not deter tourists," said Wuthichai, citing the dwindling tourism development budget as a key concern. However, the president of the Association of Thai Travel Agents, Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, advised the government to adopt strategies that distinguish between tourists and other arrivals to Thailand. Sisdivachr also underscored the need for transparent guidelines on the usage of the tourism fund. Additionally, Tassapon Bijleveld, executive chairman of Asia Aviation Plc, envisages further discussions with the new finance minister, Pichai Chunhavajira, on lowering fuel excise taxes – an appeal previously turned down. Rising maintenance costs and high jet fuel prices have initiated a 20% increase in airline costs. -- 2024-05-02 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

American Man Arrested For Assaulting Girlfriend With Golf Club Picture courtesy of Sanook Connor Murphy, an American YouTuber known for bodybuilding and lifestyle content, was detained yesterday by Thai police in Pattaya for attacking his 20-year-old girlfriend, Kanittha. Murphy purportedly assaulted her with a golf club, which he claimed was staged for a YouTube video. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326377-american-man-arrested-for-assaulting-girlfriend-with-golf-club/

Connor Murphy, an American YouTuber known for bodybuilding and lifestyle content, was detained yesterday by Thai police in Pattaya for attacking his 20-year-old girlfriend, Kanittha. Murphy purportedly assaulted her with a golf club, which he claimed was staged for a YouTube video. Kanittha and her younger sister sought help from a 55-year-old maid named Anchulee, reporting that Murphy became violent. Subsequently, Anchulee reported the matter to Huay Yai Police Station, and officers, along with Sawang Boriboon Foundation rescuers, hurried to the scene. Attempting to evade arrest, Murphy barricaded himself in a bathroom and only surrendered after his sister and neighbours persuaded him. He also suffered a cut to his stomach during the altercation and required medical attention. Kanittha recalled being awoken by the sound of breaking glass and discovered Murphy in a fit of rage, bleeding and shouting incoherently. A friend of Murphy asserted the incident was contrived for his YouTube channel, which boasts over 2.4 million subscribers. However, police dismissed this claim due to CCTC footage procured from a neighbour. The video reportedly shows Murphy behaving erratically before the assault. Murphy is yet to be formally charged as police are waiting for his recovery for further questioning. Picture courtesy of Sanook -- 2024-05-02 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Northern Thailand Prepares for Intense Summer Storms File photo The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) projects severe summer storms to afflict northern Thailand from May 3 to May 7. The tempests are predicted to bring heavy rains, hail, and strong winds. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326373-northern-thailand-prepares-for-intense-summer-storms/

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) projects severe summer storms to afflict northern Thailand from May 3 to May 7. The tempests are predicted to bring heavy rains, hail, and strong winds. The public is cautioned to be prepared and avoid potential risk areas, including large trees, weak structures, and billboards. Initially, westerly winds from Myanmar will affect the northern and northeastern regions until May 3. However, from May 6-7, weather patterns will change due to southeasterly and southerly winds impacting the northeastern, eastern, central, and lower northern areas. High temperatures may trigger more frequent storms. The TMD encourages preparedness, particularly among farmers, to guard against agricultural damage and secure livestock. The storms will affect certain provinces from tomorrow to May 4, including Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and others in the northern region. Specific northeastern, central, and eastern areas are also likely to be impacted. In the following days until May 6, the affected provinces will remain the same, with few additions in each region. On May 7, Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Lamphun, Tak, and others in the northern region will be hit. Certain provinces in the northeastern and central region, along with Bangkok and its environs, will also face the storm's impact. TMD recommends staying updated on the weather via their website or a 24-hour hotline. They plan to provide updates at 5 am and 5 pm on May 2. TOP: File photo -- 2024-05-02 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Pledges Support to Its AI Sector, Plans to Enhance Digital Infrastructure Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella, second left, meets Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, at the "Microsoft Build AI Day" event at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, May 1, 2024. (Thailand's Government Spokesman Office via AP) Thailand's leadership, with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin at the helm, aims to strengthen the country's Artificial Intelligence (AI) industry and improve its digital framework. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326372-thailand-pledges-support-to-its-ai-sector-plans-to-enhance-digital-infrastructure/

Thailand's leadership, with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin at the helm, aims to strengthen the country's Artificial Intelligence (AI) industry and improve its digital framework. The announcement came during the Microsoft Build: AI Day Event, where the Prime Minister highlighted AI's role in reshaping a multitude of sectors. Thailand's implementation of advanced digital infrastructure, such as 5G infrastructure, broadband, mobile connectivity, and an international submarine cable network is evident. This is further supported by the 'Ignite Thailand' plan launched in February. Meant to make Thailand a regional leader in eight key industries, the initiative will lead high-tech industries towards a more secure digital ecosystem. This aligns with a three-year strategy (2024-2027) to enhance the utilization of AI and cloud computing in the country. The Board of Investment has integrated digital technology into strategic investment options, offering substantial incentives for digital-focused activities. Furthermore, the government is committed to transitioning towards green energy, with a goal to derive 50% of its energy from renewable sources by 2040. In partnership with Microsoft, a 'sustainability sandbox' will be set up to spur environmental innovation. In November last year, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed with Microsoft, cementing Thailand's mission towards an AI-driven, cloud-first future. Prime Minister Srettha recognizes this partnership as a critical step in positioning Thailand as a prime destination for the digital industry. TOP picture: Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella, second left, meets Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, at the "Microsoft Build AI Day" event at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, May 1, 2024. (Thailand's Government Spokesman Office via AP) -- 2024-05-02 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Influenza Spike in Thai Prison Infects 3,000-plus Inmates File photo for reference only. Approximately 3,500 inmates in Nakhon Si Thammarat prison, Thailand, have been affected by an influenza outbreak, resulting in two deaths, according to local health authorities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1326370-influenza-spike-in-thai-prison-infects-3000-plus-inmates/