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Funeral Held for 18 Victims of Bus Crash in Prachinburi Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A mass funeral was held on 1 March for 18 victims of the devastating double-decker bus crash that occurred at Khao Thon Hill in Prachinburi Province. Grief-stricken families gathered at Wat Pha Wiwek Thammakhun in Bung Kan to bid farewell to their loved ones, with mourners overwhelmed by sorrow and loss. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353267-funeral-held-for-18-victims-of-bus-crash-in-prachinburi/

UPDATE Suspicious Circumstances Surrounding 10 Million Baht Loss in House Fire A house fire in the Tha Sai district of Nonthaburi has raised serious questions after it was reported that 10 million baht in cash was destroyed in the blaze. However, new evidence, including CCTV footage, suggests that the incident may not be as straightforward as it initially appeared. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353274-suspicious-circumstances-surrounding-10-million-baht-loss-in-house-fire/

Villager Killed by Wild Elephant While Foraging in Forest A local villager searching for forest produce in a military area of Chanthaburi province was killed by a wild elephant, authorities confirmed on 1 March. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353282-villager-killed-by-wild-elephant-while-foraging-in-forest/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 3 March 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1353300-thailand-live-monday-3-march-2025/

Danish Tourist Declines Hospital Treatment After Stabbing in Pattaya Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News A 22-year-old Danish tourist was involved in a stabbing incident in Pattaya on the evening of February 28. The situation unfolded at 10:36pm on Chalerm Phrakiet Road, Nongprue, in Bang Lamung, and remains largely unclear as the victim, identified as Daniel, refused to disclose details, press charges, or seek hospital treatment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353299-danish-tourist-declines-hospital-treatment-after-stabbing-in-pattaya/

Danish Tourist Declines Hospital Treatment After Stabbing in Pattaya Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News A 22-year-old Danish tourist was involved in a stabbing incident in Pattaya on the evening of February 28. The situation unfolded at 10:36pm on Chalerm Phrakiet Road, Nongprue, in Bang Lamung, and remains largely unclear as the victim, identified as Daniel, refused to disclose details, press charges, or seek hospital treatment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353299-danish-tourist-declines-hospital-treatment-after-stabbing-in-pattaya/

Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News A 22-year-old Danish tourist was involved in a stabbing incident in Pattaya on the evening of February 28. The situation unfolded at 10:36pm on Chalerm Phrakiet Road, Nongprue, in Bang Lamung, and remains largely unclear as the victim, identified as Daniel, refused to disclose details, press charges, or seek hospital treatment. Emergency responders found Daniel with stab wounds to his right arm and head, bleeding significantly yet declining extensive medical care beyond the initial aid administered on site. Despite his apparent distress, he chose not to pursue further treatment or an official complaint. Local resident Sai, who discovered Daniel, notified authorities but could not provide insight into the incident's cause. Pattaya City Police have since launched an investigation, reviewing CCTV footage to uncover the sequence of events leading to the attack. However, as reported by The Pattaya News, the investigation may face hurdles due to the victim's lack of cooperation and absence of a formal complaint. After receiving onsite treatment and speaking with police, Daniel departed the scene without pursuing further medical assistance. In a separate incident earlier this year, another tourist, this time a Russian national named Denis Rumiantsev, suffered a stabbing on Jomtien Second Road, also in Pattaya. The Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Centre responded to an emergency call on January 4, where the 39-year-old was found with a severe leg wound, necessitating immediate transport to a hospital. Witnesses, including convenience store staff, noted that Rumiantsev entered seeking first aid supplies, prompting them to call emergency services due to the severity of his injuries. Communication with police suggested Rumiantsev, who was reportedly intoxicated, engaged in what he thought was harmless interaction with another party prior to the incident, reportedn The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-03

Visa-free policy is the cause! Tourists in Dine-and-Dash at Phuket Restaurant Picture courtesy: Daily News A popular restaurant in Phuket has issued a warning following an incident involving two foreign tourists who left without paying. The male and female duo allegedly ordered a substantial meal and drinks at "Malongta Saiyuan" but slipped away unnoticed, leaving the bill unpaid. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353228-visa-free-policy-is-the-cause-tourists-in-dine-and-dash-at-phuket-restaurant/

Picture courtesy: Daily News A popular restaurant in Phuket has issued a warning following an incident involving two foreign tourists who left without paying. The male and female duo allegedly ordered a substantial meal and drinks at "Malongta Saiyuan" but slipped away unnoticed, leaving the bill unpaid. Reports from 1st March describe the incident, which occurred on 28th February, when the tourists took advantage of a restaurant staff's lapse in attention to make their escape. "Mr Arm," the restaurant's owner, expressed his frustration and cautioned other local businesses to be vigilant, especially during the visa-free period attracting various tourists. "I urge fellow traders and restaurant owners to be cautious, particularly with tourists visiting under the visa-free scheme," Mr Arm advised. The story quickly spread on social media, drawing sharp criticism from the public. Many have condemned the tourists' behaviour and called for increased measures to prevent such incidents. This serve as a valuable lesson for business owners to enhance vigilance and security to avoid falling victim to similar scams disguised as tourism, reported Daily News. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2025-03-01

Uyghurs Plead for Help Before Deportation: MP Reveals Letters Picture courtesy: Thai PBS In a sombre revelation, three letters penned by Uyghur asylum seekers detained in Thailand have surfaced, pleading for international intervention to prevent their deportation to China, where they feared imprisonment or worse. These letters, posted online by MP Kanwee Suebsang, shed light on the desperate situation faced by the asylum seekers, many of whom had been held in Thailand for nearly 11 years. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353213-uyghurs-plead-for-help-before-deportation-mp-reveals-letters/

Controversy Erupts as Thailand Claims Uyghurs Chose Deportation Picture courtesy: Prachatai The Thai government faces mounting criticism after asserting that 40 Uyghur individuals detained for over a decade had voluntarily returned to China. These claims have been challenged by letters reportedly written by the detainees, seeking assistance from international bodies to prevent their deportation to China over fears for their safety. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353215-controversy-erupts-as-thailand-claims-uyghurs-chose-deportation/

Bangkok Condo Raided Over Illegal Daily Rentals and Cannabis Use Picture courtesy: Komchadluek In a decisive response to mounting concerns, authorities descended upon a luxury condominium in Bangkok's bustling Sathorn district on Thursday. The operation targeted alleged illegal daily rentals to foreign tourists and reports of cannabis usage, issues that have been troubling local residents. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353219-bangkok-condo-raided-over-illegal-daily-rentals-and-cannabis-use/

Picture courtesy: Prachatai The Thai government faces mounting criticism after asserting that 40 Uyghur individuals detained for over a decade had voluntarily returned to China. These claims have been challenged by letters reportedly written by the detainees, seeking assistance from international bodies to prevent their deportation to China over fears for their safety. Kannavee Suebsang, an MP from the Fair Party and former UN refugee agency employee, publicised two of these letters. One was directed to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), and another sought intervention from Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, specifically asking for aid in reuniting with family in Turkey. These documents, penned while the Uyghurs were detained at Bangkok's Suan Phlu immigration centre, clearly indicate their desire to settle in a third country, contrasting sharply with official Thai statements. Posting the letters on social media, Mr. Kannavee aimed to counter Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai's assertion that the Uyghurs opted for a voluntary return, preferring this to continued detention in Thailand. The Thai authorities' decision to send the Uyghurs, along with eight other Chinese nationals wanted for various offences, back to China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region on Thursday has triggered widespread international condemnation, including from the UNHCR and the United States. The deportation has garnered significant global attention due to the sensitive nature of the Uyghurs' status and their treatment within China. Human rights organisations have long warned about potential abuses Uyghurs face upon return to China, allegations that Beijing disputes. The US Embassy in Bangkok has responded by issuing a security alert, highlighting the potential for retaliatory actions following Thailand's move. PM Paetongtarn, responding to the uproar, insists on the safety assurances provided by Chinese officials concerning the returnees, reiterating her commitment to human rights standards and international law. She stated that during high-level talks with China, leaders assured the safe treatment of those deported, dismissing conjecture about trading human deportation for economic benefit. This controversy places Thailand at the centre of a diplomatic storm, with human rights advocates and international leaders closely watching how the situation unfolds. The released letters, though, stand as poignant testimony to the detainees' true wishes and underline the disparity between governmental narratives and the lived realities of those affected by such deportations, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-01

Picture courtesy: Komchadluek In a decisive response to mounting concerns, authorities descended upon a luxury condominium in Bangkok's bustling Sathorn district on Thursday. The operation targeted alleged illegal daily rentals to foreign tourists and reports of cannabis usage, issues that have been troubling local residents. The raid, conducted by officials from the Sathorn district office, Yannawa police station, and the Department of Provincial Administration, lasted over an hour. Their aim was to clamp down on violations of the Hotel Act, which mandates that all rented accommodations must possess the appropriate licence. The crux of the issue lies in the alleged daily rentals of units to foreign guests, facilitated by platforms similar to Airbnb, which is illegal under Thai law. This practice often contravenes the Hotel Act, attracting a fine of 20,000 Thai Baht, with a daily penalty of 10,000 Thai Baht until resolved. Such measures are in place to ensure the safety and privacy of permanent residents within condominium complexes. Thawatchai Paengthai, head of the Sathorn district, emphasised the importance of stricter entry and exit protocols within the condominium premises. As part of this effort, he announced that signs have been erected, explicitly prohibiting daily rentals and the smoking of cannabis, which, despite legalisation under specific conditions, remains a sensitive issue due to its recreational use in certain areas. Pol Colonel Ratthanon Ekthitikulphat of Yannawa Police Station highlighted that the raid was a response to numerous complaints received regarding the daily rentals and cannabis odours. He assured that the operation's success not only affirmed residents' concerns but also underlined the need for consistent law enforcement. The condominium's management has vowed to work closely with authorities, implementing more rigorous screening processes for both monthly tenants and regular inhabitants. Police will continue to monitor compliance, making regular inspections to deter illegal activities. This operation is part of a broader initiative, spearheaded by Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, aimed at curbing illegal daily rentals, which are reportedly rife in Bangkok. The crackdown underscores the need for landlords and tourists alike to be aware of and adhere to the legal stipulations regarding short-term accommodations in Thailand. By enforcing these laws, Thai authorities hope to enhance the living conditions within condominium complexes and maintain the urban integrity of Bangkok, ensuring it remains a desirable location for both residents and visitors alike. For tourists, this serves as a critical reminder that even in short visits, abiding by local regulations is paramount to fostering a harmonious coexistence, reported The Nation. -- 2025-03-01

This photo provided by Thailand's daily web newspaper Prachatai shows a truck with black tape covering the windows leave a detention center in Bangkok, Thailand Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025.(Nuttaphol Meksobhon/Prachatai via AP) In a move triggering international concern, Thailand has secretly deported 40 Uyghur asylum seekers back to China, prompting the United States and Japan to issue security alerts for their nationals currently in the country. The deportation, which took place on Thursday, has reignited fears due to previous violent retaliations associated with similar actions. The US Embassy in Bangkok, responding swiftly, highlighted the risks by recalling the 2015 incident where a bombing at the Erawan Shrine in Bangkok led to the tragic loss of 20 lives, with 125 others injured. This attack followed a similar deportation of Uyghurs, underscoring the potentially grave implications of such decisions. The Erawan Shrine, a bustling location favoured by tourists including those from China, became a stark symbol of the risks involved. In its advisory, the US Embassy has urged American citizens to exercise heightened caution when visiting crowded places, identifying tourist hotspots, shopping centres, and public transport systems as areas of potential risk. They also encouraged reviewing personal security strategies and adhering to local authority guidance. Similarly, the Japanese Embassy has echoed these concerns, particularly given Japanese fatalities in the 2015 shrine bombing. Although the embassy maintains its overall risk assessment for Thailand remains unchanged, it advised Japanese citizens to remain vigilant, especially in areas prone to high tourist traffic. Japan's warning emphasises the importance of caution at event venues, restaurants, hotels, religious sites, and other crowded locations. These areas could potentially be targeted, causing ripple effects through the expatriate and tourist communities alike. The international community, including human rights organisations, has expressed grave concerns over Thailand's decision to deport the Uyghur group. These organisations have consistently warned about the risks faced by Uyghurs upon their forced return to China, including potential torture and ill-treatment. However, China has categorically dismissed these claims as "groundless lies." This developing situation underscores the complexity of international relations and human rights politics, with nations on alert for any backlash that might arise from this controversial deportation. The stakes remain high, particularly for the Uyghurs themselves, who have been in Thailand for over a decade amid fears for their safety if returned to Chinese soil. As the situation unfolds, both US and Japanese citizens are urged to stay informed and cautious during their time in Thailand, where vigilance remains a prudent course of action in the wake of recent events, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-03-01

Picture courtesy: Thai PBS In a sombre revelation, three letters penned by Uyghur asylum seekers detained in Thailand have surfaced, pleading for international intervention to prevent their deportation to China, where they feared imprisonment or worse. These letters, posted online by MP Kanwee Suebsang, shed light on the desperate situation faced by the asylum seekers, many of whom had been held in Thailand for nearly 11 years. The letters, one intended for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), another addressed to Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, and the third written from Bangkok's Immigration Detention Centre, all convey the deep anxiety and fear for their lives should they be returned to China. In their heartfelt appeals, the Uyghurs categorically stated their unwillingness to return, countering official statements that they willingly went back to China. Despite these desperate cries for help, PM Paetongtarn has reiterated that the deportations were voluntary, asserting confidence in the safety of these individuals in China. Her reassurance stems from discussions with Chinese leaders, who guaranteed the safety of those deported. The unveiling of these letters, however, has thrown these claims into question, with the public and international community expressing skepticism. The second letter, dated November 15, 2024, directly addressed to PM Paetongtarn, humbly requested assistance for resettlement in a third country where the Uyghurs could establish safe, happy lives. The detainees, in their third letter dated January 10, 2025, highlighted the peril they would face upon return and announced a hunger strike in protest of the forced deportation. These appeals are a poignant reminder of the human element in geopolitical decisions. Despite assurances from Thai leadership regarding the well-being of deportees, the international community remains vigilant. Past deportations have resulted in violence, raising concerns that history could repeat itself. Amidst the controversy, PM Paetongtarn firmly denies any exchange of trade benefits with China in return for cooperation on the deportation of Uyghurs. She maintains that this issue was handled according to human rights principles and international law, asserting that no third-country resettlement offers were presented to the Thai government. As the world watches closely, calls for transparency and adherence to human rights standards reverberate, with the fates of the deported Uyghurs serving as a critical test of international diplomatic and humanitarian commitments, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-03-01

US, Japan Issue Security Alerts After Thailand's Uyghur Deportation This photo provided by Thailand's daily web newspaper Prachatai shows a truck with black tape covering the windows leave a detention center in Bangkok, Thailand Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025.(Nuttaphol Meksobhon/Prachatai via AP) In a move triggering international concern, Thailand has secretly deported 40 Uyghur asylum seekers back to China, prompting the United States and Japan to issue security alerts for their nationals currently in the country. The deportation, which took place on Thursday, has reignited fears due to previous violent retaliations associated with similar actions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353209-us-japan-issue-security-alerts-after-thailands-uyghur-deportation/

Thai Vendor Calls Cops on Russian for Beer Theft Photo via Channel 7 In Rayong, Thailand, a 53-year-old Russian man named Mark caused a commotion at a local food stall. Owner Yupaporn, 35, called the police after Mark drank beer without paying and tried giving away more for free. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353185-thai-vendor-calls-cops-on-russian-for-beer-theft/

Phuket Petrol Station Faces Criticism for Rejecting Coin Payment Screenshots from Thairath video In a surprising twist at a petrol station in Phuket, delivery rider Phuwanai Umphet, widely known as Bob, found himself in a frustrating predicament when his payment attempt using coins was turned away. The incident, shared on the Facebook page โหดจัง จังหวัดภูเก็ต, has stirred up discussion online. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353165-phuket-petrol-station-faces-criticism-for-rejecting-coin-payment/

Thai TikToker Condemns Reckless Foreign Drivers in Phuket Photo via TikTok/ @ram_cream A Thai man sparked a heated debate on TikTok after sharing footage of an incident involving foreign motorists in Phuket. In the video captured on 27th February, the Thai motorist spotlighted a collision between a foreign motorcyclist and a hatchback, both driven by foreigners. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353161-thai-tiktoker-condemns-reckless-foreign-drivers-in-phuket/

British Family Seeks Aid to Bring Injured Traveller Home from Thailand Picture courtesy: SWNS A British family is urgently seeking financial support to bring their loved one back home after a tragic motorcycle accident in Thailand. In a desperate bid, they aim to raise £100,000 to cover the costs of repatriation and medical expenses. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353146-british-family-seeks-aid-to-bring-injured-traveller-home-from-thailand/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 1 March 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1353157-thailand-live-saturday-1-march-2025/

Thailand's Upcoming Entertainment Law Set to Change Nightlife Picture courtesy: Macao News A forthcoming piece of legislation, the Entertainment Complex Business Act, is poised to reshape Thailand's vibrant nightlife scene, as it heads to the Cabinet for review on March 11. Aimed at introducing more stringent regulations, this law will impact the country's bustling world of nightclubs, bars, and other entertainment venues. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353138-thailands-upcoming-entertainment-law-set-to-change-nightlife/

British Family Seeks Aid to Bring Injured Traveller Home from Thailand Picture courtesy: SWNS A British family is urgently seeking financial support to bring their loved one back home after a tragic motorcycle accident in Thailand. In a desperate bid, they aim to raise £100,000 to cover the costs of repatriation and medical expenses. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353146-british-family-seeks-aid-to-bring-injured-traveller-home-from-thailand/

Picture courtesy: SWNS A British family is urgently seeking financial support to bring their loved one back home after a tragic motorcycle accident in Thailand. In a desperate bid, they aim to raise £100,000 to cover the costs of repatriation and medical expenses. The heartbreaking scenario revolves around Okemena Sule, a 30-year-old British man who is currently in a coma after a devastating motorbike collision on Koh Samui, Thailand. The accident occurred on February 2 during what was meant to be an adventurous backpacking trip through Southeast Asia. Eyewitnesses report that Sule's motorbike collided with a car, leaving him with a severe brain haemorrhage. Following emergency brain surgery, Sule remains in a comatose state. Facing soaring costs totalling £144,000 (roughly 6.2 million baht) for Sule's medical repatriation to the UK, his family has turned to crowdfunding for help. Their GoFundMe campaign has thus far raised £35,745 (about 1.54 million baht), a promising beginning but still falling short as medical bills continue to mount. Ibs Sule, 33 and Okemena’s elder brother, shared the family's plight and feelings of helplessness. "This is the hardest time of our lives. It’s been incredibly stressful. My parents and I came to Thailand as soon as we heard, and we've essentially relocated here." The financial burden is immense, with the hospital bill already accruing to £70,000. The cheapest quote for repatriation stands at a staggering £144,000, which feels insurmountable amid this emotional turmoil. A complicating factor is the uncertainty surrounding Okemena's travel insurance. Ibs Sule expressed frustration over the difficulties in accessing any pertinent information. "We don’t know whether or not he had travel insurance, and the companies make it impossible to find out." The Sule family's appeal is heartfelt, resonating with many, as reported by Yahoo. They are overwhelmed by the support they've received so far. "The support, prayers, and kind messages mean the world to us. Time is running out, and any donation, no matter how small, will help keep Okemena alive and ensure he receives the urgent care he needs. If you cannot donate, please share this campaign with your friends and family." To help the Sule family during this critical time, donations can be made on their GoFundMe page. Every contribution brings them one step closer to bringing Okemena home safely, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-28