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Pattaya City Invests 30 Million Baht in Mobile Toilet Trucks for Tourism Boost Picture: Creative Commons License via Google Pattaya City has spent 30 million baht on six new mobile toilet trucks to facilitate tourists, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities during events. Deputy Mayor Manoch Nongyai announced the acquisition of the new vehicles on April 25, 2024. Full. story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325946-pattaya-city-invests-30-million-baht-in-mobile-toilet-trucks-for-tourism-boost/

Pattaya City has spent 30 million baht on six new mobile toilet trucks to facilitate tourists, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities during events. Deputy Mayor Manoch Nongyai announced the acquisition of the new vehicles on April 25, 2024. This will augment the existing fleet of three older toilet trucks, which due to their large size and age, were becoming inadequate to accommodate the rising number of tourists, particularly during large events. The new toilet trucks are compact, making them flexible for utilization in tight spaces. They include units specifically designed for elderly and disabled people, featuring hydraulic lifts. Two of the six vehicles offer over six restrooms for both genders. The remaining four feature standard units with two bathroooms each. Initially, the three trucks available will be stationed at Walking Street, near the Pattaya City water pump station, and Central Beach when there are no events. Manoch expects the remaining three trucks to be available by May 2024. He believes this initiative will greatly enhance restroom accessibility for tourists and residents on Jomtien and Pattaya beaches. Picture: Creative Commons License via Google -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Private Talks Between Thaksin, Srettha Fuel Cabinet Reshuffle Speculation Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing Thaksin Shinawatra, de facto Pheu Thai boss and convict on parole, had a private meeting with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The meeting, suspected to discuss a cabinet reshuffle, was conducted at a high-end Sukhumvit Road hotel in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325945-private-talks-between-thaksin-srettha-fuel-cabinet-reshuffle-speculation/

Thaksin Shinawatra, de facto Pheu Thai boss and convict on parole, had a private meeting with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The meeting, suspected to discuss a cabinet reshuffle, was conducted at a high-end Sukhumvit Road hotel in Bangkok. Thaksin, known to have the final say over these changes, previously supported the rise to power of Srettha, a real-estate tycoon turned Prime Minister. Srettha, who also holds the finance portfolio, is predicted to resign this role in favor of Pichai Chunhavajira, former chair of the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Speculation points to Srettha taking over the defense portfolio from Defense Minister Suthin Khlangsang. Possible additions to the cabinet may include Nattapon Nakpanich, a former deputy army chief and pupil of former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha. Other anticipated members are Paopoom Rojanasaku as deputy finance minister, Jiraporn Sindhuprai as deputy commerce minister, and Pichit Chuenbarn as a minister in the Prime Minister's Office. Current members that may be out in this reshuffle include Public Health Minister Chonlanan Srikaew, Deputy Agriculture & Cooperatives Minister Chaiya Promma, and Prime Minister’s Office Minister Puangpetch Choonla-iad. The third and fourth largest coalition partners, Palang Pracharath and Ruam Thai Sang Chart respectively, are anticipated to change some ministers. Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

US Navy's Carrier Strike Group Visits Thailand before West Pacific Operations Picture: Creative Commons License via Google The United States Navy's Carrier Strike Group 9, led by the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71), is currently docked at Thailand's Laem Chabang port in Chonburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325943-us-navys-carrier-strike-group-visits-thailand-before-west-pacific-operations /

The United States Navy's Carrier Strike Group 9, led by the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71), is currently docked at Thailand's Laem Chabang port in Chonburi. The naval group will remain there until the end of the month before proceeding to naval exercises in the West Pacific region. Crewmembers are currently on a one-week shore leave, primarily in the Pattaya area and as far as Bangkok. The anchorage location is about 25 kilometers north of Pattaya, a notable shift from previous decades when US naval ships would anchor off Pattaya. In addition to the USS Theodore Roosevelt, the Carrier Strike Group includes four US navy destroyers: the USS Russell (DDG-59), USS Howard (DDG-83), USS Halsey (DDG-97), and USS Daniel Inouye (DDG-118). The aircraft on board include Lockheed Martin’s F-35C Lightning II fighters and Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet jets. The exact location for the Carrier Strike Group's West Pacific exercises remains confidential. It is speculated they may occur near the South China Sea, an area marked by naval tensions and a frequent site of Chinese naval and coast guard presence. Picture: Creative Commons License via Google -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Toxic Smoke Engulfs Bangkok's Rama 2 Area Due to Chemical Leak Picture: Creative Commons License via Google The early hours of August 25 saw clouds of toxic smoke emanating from a chemical leak at a factory in Bangkok’s Rama 2 area. The local disaster prevention and mitigation department, along with firefighters, rushed to halt the leakage that began around 2:10 a.m. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325942-toxic-smoke-engulfs-bangkoks-rama-2-area-due-to-chemical-leak/

The early hours of August 25 saw clouds of toxic smoke emanating from a chemical leak at a factory in Bangkok’s Rama 2 area. The local disaster prevention and mitigation department, along with firefighters, rushed to halt the leakage that began around 2:10 a.m. White smoke was seen pouring from the chemical warehouse of the factory. The response team promptly evacuated twelve smoke-releasing tanks and hosed them down with water. The tanks were found to contain Thiourea or Thiocarbamate, chemicals commonly used to boost seed germination and promote flowering in agriculture. The incident is currently under investigation by the Bangmod police station. Separately, Pimpatra Wichaikul, the Thailand Industry Minister, is suspecting a potential link between this incident and a fire on April 22 at Win Process Co.’s chemical warehouses in Rayong. She highlighted an additional instance of a fire at a recycling plant in Ratchaburi on April 4. Wichaikul has requested the ministry's permanent secretary and the head of the Industrial Works Department to explore these incidents immediately. Whilst the sequence of fires appears suspicious, Wichaikul recommends awaiting formal police investigation for conclusive results. She confirmed that she will personally visit the affected regions to examine air quality, scrutinise any residual effects, evaluate potential human impacts, and check whether the local canals have been polluted. Picture: Creative Commons License via Google -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Krabi Faces Water Shortage, Phi Phi Islands Sans Tap Water Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing A severe freshwater crisis has hit Thailand's southern province of Krabi, leaving Phi Phi Islands without tap water. In several other regions, residents receive tap water only on alternate days. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325941-krabi-faces-water-shortage-phi-phi-islands-sans-tap-water/

A severe freshwater crisis has hit Thailand's southern province of Krabi, leaving Phi Phi Islands without tap water. In several other regions, residents receive tap water only on alternate days. The escalating crisis resulted in the suspension of water services by Waterhill Company, which operates a reservoir on Phi Phi islands, as raw water levels reach critically low. Despite efforts from the Royal Rainmaking Unit at Krabi Airport, which commenced twice-daily cloud seeding operations on Tuesday, April 23, the targeted areas have seen no rainfall. Furthermore, even Mueang Krabi, a major urban area, is not spared, with the Provincial Waterworks Authority stating that there's an insufficient raw water supply for tap water production. Phi Phi island's reservoir, which has been dry for three days, spans five rai, while the Royal Irrigation Department's reservoir, supervised by the subdistrict administration organisation, covers three rai and is also in a similar condition. Consequently, residents and small businesses without their water sources have to purchase water at escalated prices of 150-200 per cubic metre. Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Big Joke demands top job at Royal Thai Police HQ Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing General Surachate Hakparn, popularly known as 'Big Joke', made his return to the Royal Thai Police headquarters this Thursday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325939-big-joke-demands-top-job-at-royal-thai-police-hq/

General Surachate Hakparn, popularly known as 'Big Joke', made his return to the Royal Thai Police headquarters this Thursday. The former top police officer pledged to take legal actions against what he strongly believes is an internal conspiracy aimed at thwarting his chances of becoming Commissioner. Recently removed from his position, 'Big Joke' voiced grave criticism on the current acting National Police Commissioner, General Kittirat Phanphet. He singled out the acting chief for particular scrutiny, stating that his dismissal process was legally flawed and argued it was based on an outdated procedure. Surachate argued his displacement was executed based on an obsolete method, which was superseded by the updated Thailand 2022 Police Act. The assertion insinuates that his removal may have been unceremonious and potentially unlawful. Despite the challenges, Surachate remained steadfast in his belief that he is the most suited for the role of the National Police Commissioner. He reiterated his aspiration to assume the position in October. Asserting he was the best fit for the National Police Commissioner role, he subtly criticized the acting Police Commissioner, General Kittirat Phanphet. Hakparn spoke out against a group within the police force he described as a 'cabal,' which he believes is trying to thwart his advancement. He promised to initiate legal action against them. He contended that the method used for his removal a week prior was ill-conceived and based on an obsolete process replaced by the 2022 Police Act. After retracting a complaint against the Prime Minister two days prior, Hakparn made a resolute comeback. When addressing reporters, he affirmed his position as a deputy police chief, arguing that his dismissal hasn't been officially confirmed with a royal decree. Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 26 April 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1325938-thailand-live-friday-26-april-2024/

New Zealand brothers still under Phuket custody, waiting for a trial date Creative Commons License via Google Two brothers from New Zealand, Hamish and Oscar Day, aged 34 and 36 respectively, remain in custody in Phuket, following a conflict with a local police officer in March. Their charges include robbery, assault of an officer, attempted bribery, and unlicensed motorbike riding. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325905-new-zealand-brothers-still-under-phuket-custody-waiting-for-a-trial-date/

The Federation of Thai Tourism Associations has issued a warning to the Thai government alerting that the level of tourism has reached a critical point. According to forecasts, the number of foreign visitors in 2024 will be about 40 million, similar to the last pre-COVID year, 2019. This could strain both local environments and tourist experience. Officials Concerned Over Potential Overcrowding in Pattaya and Phuket Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325908-officials-concerned-over-potential-overcrowding-in-pattaya-and-phuket/ Picture: Creative Commons License via Google

Rescue Operation for Huge Python Trapped in Drainage Pipe Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A near 4-meter long python was recently found stuck in a drain pipe at a house in the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province. The reptile appeared to have eaten something sizeable, possibly a cat, prior to getting lodged in the pipe. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325888-rescue-operation-for-huge-python-trapped-in-drainage-pipe/

A near 4-meter long python was recently found stuck in a drain pipe at a house in the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province. The reptile appeared to have eaten something sizeable, possibly a cat, prior to getting lodged in the pipe. The Ayutthaya Radio Centre was alerted by the concerned homeowners, leading to a rapid response by snake-savvy rescue teams. On their arrival, the rescue team, tasked with freeing the trapped python, were faced with the considerable challenge of breaking through concrete to widen the pipe and extricate the snake - a task that took over an hour with assistance from community members. Sunantha, the homeowner, had initially believed a usual clog was responsible for the blocked pipe. However, discovering the snake was quite a shock, prompting her to call authorities for fear of the creature's wellbeing. The unusual incident led to speculations amongst locals who wondered if the python could bring good luck, considering using their house number for lottery bets - a common belief in instances like this according to Thailand traditions. Post-rescue, the python was noted to have a visibly distended stomach, validating the assumption that it had recently consumed something large. Following standard procedures, the rescue team placed the snake in a bag to return it to the wild, assuring safety for both the python and the community. Picture courtesy of KhaoSod -- ASEAN NOW 2024-04-25 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Thai Police Hunt for Japanese Murder Suspects Photo via Channel 3 and Facebook/ คุยข่าว เมืองนนท์ Two Japanese men are being sought by Thai authorities for the gruesome murder and dismemberment of Kabashima Ryosuke, another Japanese national. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325846-thai-police-hunt-japanese-suspects-in-grisly-murder-case/?do=findComment&comment=18868712

Thai Police Hunt for Japanese Murder Suspects Photo via Channel 3 and Facebook/ คุยข่าว เมืองนนท์ Two Japanese men are being sought by Thai authorities for the gruesome murder and dismemberment of Kabashima Ryosuke, another Japanese national. The police have already arrested a Thai national, referred to as Game, who has reportedly admitted to assisting in disposing of the body parts but denied involvement in the murder. Game identified the two men as Kato Takuya, 50, and Suzuki Hiroto, 28, claiming that they had killed Ryosuke after a heated argument. All three men had been employed at a scam call centre operated by Takuya and Hiroto. The victim's remains were recovered in Nonthaburi province, Thailand, where they had allegedly been discarded by the killers. Game also stated that Takuya and Hiroto, neither of whom have legal status in the country, forced him to assist in the murder's aftermath under threat, although he wouldn't reveal the details. Despite claiming to operate a car part importing business and leasing a warehouse for storage, police investigations showed Takuya and Hiroto were running a call centre scam gang. Thai police are now cooperating with the Japanese authorities in the ongoing manhunt for the suspects. -- ASEAN NOW 2024-04-25 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

House Speaker Advocates for Referendum Before Charter Change Vote Image courtesy of Thai PBS World House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha believes a referendum is required for public approval before the proposed charter amendment can be acknowledged. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325884-house-speaker-advocates-for-referendum-before-charter-change-vote/

Image courtesy of Thai PBS World House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha believes a referendum is required for public approval before the proposed charter amendment can be acknowledged. He responded to inquiries about potentially addressing significant legislation during a special House session for the 2025 fiscal year’s budget bill reading. However, he emphasized the Thailand charter amendment proposals could not be debated in the House without a preceding legal referendum to acquire voters’ consent for a new charter draft. While the House plans to accept charter amendment proposals, Matha stated there was no guarantee to have them on the agenda until the Parliament’s legal office reviews them. The cabinet earlier agreed to conduct three separate referenda on a new charter, with the first one set to take place in late July or early August. The first referendum primarily asks voters if they agree on developing a new charter, excluding Chapters 1 and 2. If the majority agrees, further referenda will follow, eventually asking voters if they agree with the proposed new charter. The Move Forward Party (MFP) urged the government to reconsider the first referendum question due to potential confusion about Chapters 1 and 2. MFP leader Chaithawat Tulathon clarified this was not about changing these chapters. The party advocates for a complete overhaul if it serves the people’s interests. Chusak Sirinil, a Pheu Thai list-MP and government whip, said the government would decide when to commence proposed amendments to the Referendum Act 2021. With Thailand's ruling party's version already submitted to the House, the government’s law amendment decision may lead to their own version. The cabinet intends to amend the Referendum Act 2021 to remove the practice of a double majority rule in a referendum. -- ASEAN NOW 2024-04-25 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Huge Fire Engulfs Motorcycle Parts Shops in Loei Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A massive fire broke out, destroying three connected motorcycle parts shops in Loei, Thailand, causing several explosions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325880-huge-fire-engulfs-motorcycle-parts-shops-in-loei/

A massive fire broke out, destroying three connected motorcycle parts shops in Loei, Thailand, causing several explosions. The blaze, which started at 8:30 pm yesterday, was the worst the province has seen in 11 years. Firefighters worked tirelessly for approximately two hours to subdue the flames. The fire took place in Saeng Thong Parts, prompting a quick response from the municipal fire brigade. The presence of highly combustible items, including motorcycle tyres, spray paint cans, engine oils, and other lubricants, exacerbated the situation. Over 2,000 paint cans and 1,000 bottles of oil exploded about every three seconds for an hour, feeding the flames even more. The large-scale operation saw participation from over 100 personnel across multiple agencies, such as municipal teams from Loei and Na Aan, the highway department, police, military, and volunteer rescue squads. Working together, they fought one of the most significant fires in the province since a five-story warehouse fire in 2013. The extensive damage at Saeng Thong Parts has led officials to launch a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire. This incident serves as a chilling reminder of the dangers of storing flammable materials and the bravery of firefighters and rescue services. As the community recovers from the sizable blaze, the focus now shifts to the investigation results and necessary measures to prevent future such incidents. Picture courtesy of KhaoSod -- ASEAN NOW 2024-04-25 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Drug-Induced Violent Spree Ends in Arrest in Samut Prakan Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A man, high on drugs, went on a rampage injuring multiple people in Samut Prakan province yesterday. The man, only identified as Samhing, first assaulted his family members before stealing a pickup truck, damaging several vehicles and ending up under a motorway where he was restrained by the police. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325878-drug-induced-violent-spree-ends-in-arrest-in-samut-prakan/

A man, high on drugs, went on a rampage injuring multiple people in Samut Prakan province yesterday. The man, only identified as Samhing, first assaulted his family members before stealing a pickup truck, damaging several vehicles and ending up under a motorway where he was restrained by the police. The manhunt concluded with the suspect sustaining a gunshot wound and leaving two others - a police officer and a taxi driver - injured. On arrival at the scene, police found an abandoned Isuzu pickup with a shattered window and blood on the driver’s seat. Samhing was found restrained by numerous officers, appearing to be under the influence of drugs. The injured officer, Thitipat Ruampalangek from Prapadaeng Police Station, had a stab wound in his chest, scrapes on both palms, and a gash in his knee. The taxi driver, Veera, had a knife slash on his arm. Officers revealed that upon their first encounter, Samhing had attacked them with a knife, leading them to shoot him. Samhing was subsequently taken to Bangjak Hospital and his urine test confirmed methamphetamine use. Charges against him include attempted murder of law enforcement officials, armed robbery causing bodily harm, and drug use while operating a vehicle. A co-worker of Samhing, who owned one of the damaged vehicles, claimed Samhing had shown signs of illness, including vomiting blood, before his violent outburst. Meanwhile, a taxi passenger escaped unscathed during a struggle that left driver, Veera, with injuries. Picture courtesy of KhaoSod -- ASEAN NOW 2024-04-25 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe