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Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Nine former officials linked to the 2004 Tak Bai massacre will face criminal charges as the case approaches its 20-year statute of limitations. Lawyers for the victims' families are spearheading the legal action, intending to file charges including unlawful detention, murder, and malfeasance at the Narathiwat Provincial Court. Adilan Ali-Ishoh of the Muslim Attorney Centre Foundation disclosed that all victims' families have authorized the foundation to represent them. The accused include top southern army officers and key police and Interior Ministry officials. The Tak Bai tragedy unfolded during a protest in Narathiwat on October 25, 2004, resulting in seven deaths at the site and 78 fatalities during transportation to a military camp in Pattani province. It is seen as a trigger for increased violence in southern Muslim-majority provinces during Thaksin Shinawatra's premiership. Ali-Ishoh acknowledged the challenges ahead but pledged to fight for justice, thanking those who contributed to gathering evidence, including an independent investigation led by former ombudsman Pichet Sunthornpipit. Despite some victims receiving government compensation, human rights groups, including Amnesty International, criticized the lack of comprehensive reparations and access to justice, urging for accountability beyond financial settlements. -- ASEAN NOW 2024-04-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Horrific accident claims 4 lives, injures 6 A collision involving trucks has resulted in 4 deaths and 6 injuries. The incident occurred when a pickup truck crossed lanes and collided with several vehicles, causing the fatalities and injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325769-horrific-accident-claims-4-lives-injures-6/

A collision involving trucks has resulted in 4 deaths and 6 injuries. The incident occurred when a pickup truck crossed lanes and collided with several vehicles, causing the fatalities and injuries. Investigation suggest that the pickup truck driver may have fallen asleep, leading to the vehicle drifting across lanes and causing the accident, reported Thai Rath. Two young men on a motorcycle and passengers in the pickup truck were among the victims. Additionally, a further 6 individuals were injured. The accident took place on the Pho Thong-Chaiyo road near Wat Pa Munee, Ang Thong Province, Thailand. Authorities are coordinating with medical teams and rescue personnel to assess the situation. The pickup truck driver, still in critical condition, must recover before further investigation. Picture: Thai Rath -- ASEAN NOW 2024-04-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Picture: Thai Rath

Phuket immigration arrest Syrian fugitive with fake passports Picture: Daily News Phuket Immigration Police apprehended Mr. Mohannad Almazi, a 52-year-old Syrian national, who attempted to flee the war using fake passports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325767-phuket-immigration-arrest-syrian-fugitive-with-fake-passports/

Phuket Immigration Police apprehended Mr. Mohannad Almazi, a 52-year-old Syrian national, who attempted to flee the war using fake passports. He was caught at the departure area with passports from Syria and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), reported Daily News. Inspection revealed discrepancies in the passport details, prompting further investigation. Almazi admitted to obtaining the fake passports via Facebook, intending to travel to the UAE due to its visa flexibility and escape Syria's conflict. He faces charges for possessing and intending to use fake passports. The suspect was detained and handed over for legal proceedings. -- ASEAN NOW 2024-04-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Oldest person found at 114 years old, living in Krabi Picture: Daily News On April 23, 2024, officials from Krabi conducted health check-ups for two elderly people over 100 years old: Mrs. Sa Bohna, 104, and Mrs. Li Faon, 103. Both require close care due to their age. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325764-oldest-person-found-at-114-years-old-living-in-krabi/

On April 23, 2024, officials from Krabi conducted health check-ups for two elderly people over 100 years old: Mrs. Sa Bohna, 104, and Mrs. Li Faon, 103. Both require close care due to their age. Mr. Kirit Sakakorn, Deputy Chairman of Krabi Education Council, stated they annually visit elderly people over 100 years old, starting in 2022, providing essential items and 5,000 baht eachm reported Daily News. Initially, in 2022, they found over 60 elderly people over 100, but more than 10 have passed away. In 2024, they found 53, with one person, Mrs. Paeng Chankul, aged 114, still able to walk. Additionally, in Nuea Khlong District, nine elderly people over 100 were found, some still able to read and do small tasks. Picture: Daily News -- ASEAN NOW 2024-04-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Deposed Deputy Police Chief Retreats From Legal Battle Against PM By Thai Newsroom Reporters Former deputy police chief Pol. Gen. Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, left, and Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, right. IN WHAT WAS SEEN as a surprise withdrawal, former deputy police chief Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn has changed his mind to no longer wage a legal battle against Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Pol. Gen. Surachate yesterday (Apr. 23) withdrew his complaint which he had filed yesterday with the National Anti-Corruption Commission to accuse the Pheu Thai-backed prime minister of perpetrating power abuse by having earlier named Pol. Gen. Torsak Sukwimon as police chief and by deposing him from the post of deputy police chief in the face of money laundering charges allegedly involving kickbacks from illegal online gambling operators. Pol. Gen. Surachate was only quoted as saying he had decidedly had “no doubts” about the prime minister’s acts which may be evidently affecting him and finally had his lawyer withdraw his complaint. Nevertheless, the NACC is yet obliged to investigate allegations of power abuse committed by the prime minister following a petition earlier lodged by former police chief Seripisut Temiyavej, said NACC secretary-general Niwatichai Kasemmongkol. Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-04-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Video Shows Taxi Striking Pedestrian at Bangkok Crosswalk: Public Outcry Ignites Debate on Road Safety Laws By Kittisak Phalaharn Bangkok—On April 23rd, 2024, Thai social media users posted a video of a pedestrian being hit by a taxi while legally crossing the road at a crosswalk in front of Asiatique The Riverfront, Bang Kho Laem, Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325760-video-shows-taxi-striking-pedestrian-at-bangkok-crosswalk-public-outcry-ignites-debate/

Bangkok—On April 23rd, 2024, Thai social media users posted a video of a pedestrian being hit by a taxi while legally crossing the road at a crosswalk in front of Asiatique The Riverfront, Bang Kho Laem, Bangkok. In response to the viral video of the accident, Wat Phraya Krai police officers publicly revealed the case details that the officers received via an accident report at 1:36 PM, on April 20th. The video shows a dozen pedestrians waiting to cross the road. The emergency services and police officers were dispatched to the accident scene and found a taxi driver, publicly identified only as Mr. Patsathi, 58, and a victim, publicly identified only as Mr. Thanat, 44. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Enters Low Tourism Season: Industry Faces Challenges Post-Songkran, Hopes Rest on Chinese Visitors By Kittisak Phalaharn On April 22nd, 2024, Mr. Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, the President of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), publicly revealed that Thailand is officially entering the low season. Thai Tourism operators may struggle with low incoming tourists after the Songkran Holidays. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325759-thailand-enters-low-tourism-season-hopes-rest-on-chinese-visitors/

On April 22nd, 2024, Mr. Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, the President of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), publicly revealed that Thailand is officially entering the low season. Thai Tourism operators may struggle with low incoming tourists after the Songkran Holidays. Right after the Songkran Celebrations, Thailand would officially enter the low season as it does every year. Many tourism-related businesses might have to keep the business alive and meet the tourists’ demand with alternative tourism, according to Sisdivachr. This was the nature of the tourism sector that did not change for the past decade. The low season caused the number of western, eastern, and European tourists to gradually decrease. However, China visitors were estimated to visit Thailand as there was a current visa exemption between Thailand and China, stated Sisdivachr. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pheu Thai Digital Wallet Project Endorsed By All Coalition Partners By Thai Newsroom Reporters Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin talking to reporter, Apr. 23, 2024. Photo: Thai Rath THE PHEU THAI-INITIATED populist handout campaign, known as the 10,000-baht digital wallet project, today (Apr. 23) secured solid support from all coalition partners. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325758-pheu-thai-digital-wallet-project-endorsed-by-all-coalition-partners/

THE PHEU THAI-INITIATED populist handout campaign, known as the 10,000-baht digital wallet project, today (Apr. 23) secured solid support from all coalition partners. In a press conference at Government House, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin confirmed all coalition partners, namely the Bhumjaithai, Palang Pracharath, Ruam Thai Sang Chart, Prachachart and Chart Thai Pattana, have lent their unfaltering support for the Pheu Thai handout campaign, scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of this year. Nevertheless, the cabinet today resolved to have the Council of State determine as to whether a sum of 172.3 billion baht could be legally provided from the Bank for Agriculture & Agricultural Cooperatives for the delayed digital wallet project calculated to need a total of 500 billion baht in funding. By Thai Newsroom Reporters TOP: Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin talking to reporter, Apr. 23, 2024. Photo: Thai Rath Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-04-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Cabinet Approves Visa Exemption for Russian Tourists, But Changed from 90 Days to 60 By Adam Judd Thailand-In a move to boost tourism and economic growth, the Thai cabinet has announced an extension of the visa-free scheme for Russian visitors. Starting May 1st, Russians can enjoy a 60-day visa exemption, but this is shorter than before, replacing the previous 90-day programme set to conclude at April’s end. This strategic decision aims to enhance tourism revenue and invigorate the national economy, as articulated by government spokesman Chai Wacharonke. The initiative, proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reflects the government’s commitment to fostering international relations and tourism, according to Chai. Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand offers visa-free travel to Russian visitors for 3 months by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เศรษฐา ทวีสิน - Srettha Thavisin Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today announced that Thailand is offering a visa-free scheme to Russian visitors for three months from May 1 to July 31. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325757-thailand-offers-visa-free-travel-to-russian-visitors-for-3-months/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today announced that Thailand is offering a visa-free scheme to Russian visitors for three months from May 1 to July 31. PM Srettha held a press conference at Government House at 11.50am, today, April 23, following a Cabinet meeting earlier in the day. In a part of his speech, the 62 year old Thai PM mentioned that the Cabinet agreed to offer visa-free travel to government officials from Bangladesh while also approving visa-free travel for Russian nationals. The PM explained that Russian visitors would be allowed to enter Thailand and stay for 60 days without the need to apply for a visa. This special measure will come into effect for three months, from May 1 to July 31, according to a report on PPTV HD. This measure will replace the former visa-free arrangement, which expires at the end of this month. Under the previous arrangement, Russian citizens were permitted to enter Thailand and stay for 90 days from November 1 of last year to April 30 of this year. While Thailand prepares to extend a visa-free plan for Russian nationals, MRG Online reported last month that Sri Lanka had cancelled its visa exemption plan for both Russian and Ukrainian nationals due to racism. This decision followed an incident at a nightclub called The Sarayka Lounge, where locals were banned from entering with a sign that read “Face Control: White.” Thai people, especially in Phuket, previously expressed concerns about the behaviour of Russian nationals on social media. They accused Russians of taking their jobs by illegally working and operating businesses. Several crimes committed by Russian nationals have also made headlines in Thai news outlets. According to a report from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, more than 9.9 million foreign visitors entered Thailand between January 1 and April 7, generating over 480 billion baht in income for the country. Russian nationals ranked among the top three foreign visitors with 661,000 people entering during the period. The other two top countries were China (1.8 million people) and Malaysia (1.2 million people). Thailand began implementing a visa-free scheme for visitors from China and Kazakhstan last year. The country then reached a mutual visa-free agreement with China to allow residents from both countries to travel and stay for 30 days without visas, starting from March 1 onwards. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เศรษฐา ทวีสิน - Srettha Thavisin Full story: The Thaiger 2024-04-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Big Joke drops case against the PM as his nameplate and photo have been removed at Royal Thai Police HQ by James Morris and Son Nguyen Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, on Tuesday, refused to discuss the Big Joke case. It comes as the former top cop withdrew a complaint against the PM made on Monday, less than 24 hours later, on Tuesday morning. Meanwhile, the former policeman’s nameplate was removed and his office locked at Police Headquarters. He was, furthermore, removed from the Royal Thai Police website. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325756-big-joke-drops-case-against-the-pm-as-his-nameplate-photo-have-been-removed-at-police-hq/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, on Tuesday, refused to discuss the Big Joke case. It comes as the former top cop withdrew a complaint against the PM made on Monday, less than 24 hours later, on Tuesday morning. Meanwhile, the former policeman’s nameplate was removed and his office locked at Police Headquarters. He was, furthermore, removed from the Royal Thai Police website. Big Joke drops case against PM. His nameplate and photo were removed at Royal Thai Police HQ. The National Anti-Corruption Commission, however, confirms an ongoing investigation into the PM. Big Joke’s era ends as his nameplate vanishes and website photos are moved. Surachate inexplicably withdraws his malfeasance charges against the PM. On Tuesday, the Secretary-general of the anti-corruption agency revealed that General Surachate Hakparn had withdrawn his malfeasance report against Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The top official however explained that substantial allegations made by General Surachate relating to his removal from the police force remain. At the same time, he further explained that the Prime Minister is already being investigated over the affair. It followed a complaint from the former police chief, party leader and MP, General Sereepisuth Temeeyaves. Additionally on Tuesday, in what appears like a death knell for General Surachate’s future as a policeman, it was made known his nameplate was removed from his former office at Royal Thai Police headquarters. Simultaneously his name and photo were removed from the police website. On Tuesday, in another twist in the ongoing Big Joke saga, the Secretary-General of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), Niwatchai Kasemmongkol, told reporters that General Surachate Hakparn had withdrawn the complaint against the prime minister. by James Morris and Son Nguyen Full story: Thai Examiner.com 2024-04-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 24 April 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1325754-thailand-live-wednesday-24-april-2024/

A Thai couple took to social media to issue a warning, alleging that a foreign man attempted to scam them by selling a fake luxury watch. The couple claim that the man allegedly bought the watch for 59,000 baht but offered it to them for just 6,000 baht. Fake time, real warning: Thai couple’s scam alert Photo via Facebook/ Supakorn Piriyesyangkoon Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325741-fake-time-real-warning-thai-couple’s-scam-alert-video/

Thai tourism sector proposes 300-baht tax to counter over-tourism by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thai tourism operators are advocating for government regulations to address the rising issue of over-tourism in the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325707-thai-tourism-sector-proposes-300-baht-tax-to-counter-over-tourism/

Thai tourism operators are advocating for government regulations to address the rising issue of over-tourism in the country. They propose the implementation of a 300-baht tourism tax, which they believe could alleviate the problem. Their call for action comes in response to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s commitment to make 2025 a pivotal year for Thai tourism. The Federation of Thai Tourism Associations (FETTA) is set to present a white paper to the government outlining solutions to over-tourism, a significant issue in Thailand pre-pandemic. Secretary-General of FETTA, Adith Chairattananon, pointed out that major tourist destinations like Phuket, Samui, and Pattaya are on the brink of over-tourism, with a projected 40 million tourists. During peak season, these popular destinations suffer from traffic congestion and water shortages, with international airports running out of slots for airlines. Adith suggests a key strategy could be to divert tourists from these hubs to the country’s secondary cities. These cities offer numerous potential attractions and have adequate space to accommodate an influx of tourists. Adith also proposed incentives for airlines to operate direct flights to provincial airports, such as U-Tapao, Khon Kaen, and Krabi. Such a move would ease congestion at major airports, like Phuket Airport or Suvarnabhumi Airport, and stimulate regional business opportunities. Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) Vice-President Surawat Akaraworamat supports the idea of a 300-baht tourism fee. He believes it could fund tourism development as the plan and all related preparations have been finalised. Surawat suggests that the tax would not deter foreign tourists, as the fee is minimal compared to countries like Bhutan, which charges a tourist tax of over US$100 (approximately 3,700 baht) per night. The additional revenue could be used to develop infrastructure in second-tier provinces, attract tourists away from overcrowded locations, and enhance attractions that have deteriorated due to over-tourism, reported Bangkok Post. Surawat called for a trial phase of tourism tax collection through a mobile application or kiosks, mirroring the approach taken by many countries that collect taxes from tourists through flight tickets or hotel stays. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-23 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Authorities struggle to control fire at chemical warehouse in Rayong by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ฝันดี - ฝันเด่น ใจถึงใจคนไทยไม่ทิ้งกัน A fire broke out at an industrial waste and chemical warehouse belonging to the Win Process Company in the eastern province of Rayong at 8.30am yesterday. The Thai authorities have been working for over 20 hours to extinguish the fire and are struggling to fully control it due to flammable chemical substances. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325706-authorities-struggle-to-control-fire-at-chemical-warehouse-in-rayong/