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In a sweeping operation dubbed “The Purge,” Royal Thai Police (RTP) officers from Mueang Thong Thani, in collaboration with relevant agencies, made significant strides in the battle against transnational crime on April 17. RTP officers seized assets worth over 250 million baht (US$7.9 million) from hybid-scam networks, a substantial blow to these criminal operations. The hybid-scam network involved tricking unsuspecting victims through social media platforms, persuading them to invest in cryptocurrency trading. The catch was that the victims had to transfer their money into so-called mule accounts to convert it into digital currency for trading on bogus platforms, said one of the officers involved in the operation. “The victims were not aware that they were being duped. The platforms were fake, and their investments were simply siphoned off by the criminals.” As investigations unfolded, the cyber police identified a prime suspect: Shaoxian Su, a Chinese national, and his accomplices. They also discovered links to Thai nationals who acted as nominees, investing in various assets, including real estate, under Thai identities. This discovery led the police to further intensify their operations. Under the banner Trust No One, they searched 72 locations across Thailand, apprehending three Chinese nationals. Luxury condominiums, sports cars, cash, and other assets totalling over 1.9 billion baht (US$60 million) were seized from these locations, said the officer. “Upon investigation, we found financial activities tied to Singaporean individuals also involved with the Hybid-Scam network.” The Purge operation was a resounding success, with over 26 individuals implicated in the scam. The RTP secured arrest and search warrants to bring these individuals to justice, reported Pattaya News. Furthermore, the authorities reported that the hybid-scam network was also connected to transactional crimes in call scams and online gambling networks. These networks, it was found, had a financial turnover of 30 billion baht (US$947 million) per year. This operation marks a significant victory in the fight against transnational crime. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Pattaya News Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Songkran festival sees surge in road accidents across Thailand by Top Top Thailand is grappling with a surge in road accidents, with an alarming tally of 2,044 mishaps leading to 2,060 injuries and a tragic loss of 287 lives. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325346-songkran-festival-sees-surge-in-road-accidents-across-thailand/

Thailand is grappling with a surge in road accidents, with an alarming tally of 2,044 mishaps leading to 2,060 injuries and a tragic loss of 287 lives. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) released these figures as part of their Seven Days of Road Safety Campaign, which covered the Songkran festival period from April 11 to April 17. The northern province of Chiang Rai topped the list for the highest number of fatalities and accidents, recording 17 deaths and 82 accidents respectively. The province of Phrae, unfortunately, saw the most injuries with a total of 80 individuals affected. The Seven Days of Road Safety Campaign is an annual initiative by the DDPM to promote safer road practices, particularly during the Songkran festival, a time when road accidents typically spike due to increased travel and festivities. The campaign’s objective is not only to raise awareness but also to enforce traffic rules more stringently to ensure the safety of all road users, said a DDPM spokesperson. “Despite our best efforts, the number of accidents, injuries, and deaths remains high. We urge everyone to observe traffic rules, avoid drink driving, and ensure their vehicles are in good condition before hitting the road. The Songkran festival, also known as the Thai New Year, is a time of celebration for the Thai people. It is often marked with water fights, visits to temples, and spending time with family. However, the festival period also sees a significant increase in road traffic as people travel across the country to their hometowns. The DDPM has been proactive in trying to reduce the number of road accidents during this period. Their initiatives include setting up road safety checkpoints, increasing patrols, and running public awareness campaigns on the dangers of drink driving and speeding. Looking at the statistics, Chiang Rai recorded the most accidents and fatalities, highlighting a need for further intervention in this region. Phrae, with the highest number of injuries, also requires attention, said the DDPM spokesperson. “We need everyone’s cooperation to make our roads safer. We are doing our best, but it is also up to each individual to take responsibility for their actions on the road.” The statistics are a stark reminder of the dangers that can come with increased road traffic during festive periods. by Top Top Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Three year old girl survives Ferris wheel plunge in Bangkok Photo of Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Metro UK In a heart-stopping moment captured on CCTV, a three year old Thai girl found herself dangling from a Ferris wheel gondola after a daring grab for a metal bar sent her on a terrifying ride at Liab Duan Market in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325345-three-year-old-girl-survives-ferris-wheel-plunge-in-bangkok/

In a heart-stopping moment captured on CCTV, a three year old Thai girl found herself dangling from a Ferris wheel gondola after a daring grab for a metal bar sent her on a terrifying ride at Liab Duan Market in Bangkok. With astonishing strength, little Kanchaya Phoyen clung on for dear life as the wheel ascended, eventually dropping a stomach-churning 25 feet to the ground below. Miraculously, she landed on one of the gondola roofs, escaping what could have been a tragic fate. Paramedic Paitoon Saithong, who rushed Kanchaya to the hospital, described her survival as nothing short of a miracle. “The Ferris wheel is quite high. She is very, lucky to survive such a fall.” Paitoon noted that although Kanchaya suffered cuts and blood loss, her injuries were not severe, and she remained conscious throughout. Despite the harrowing ordeal, no action has been taken against the fairground owners, and Kanchaya’s parents have chosen not to file a complaint, reported Metro UK. However, authorities have issued a stern warning to parents, urging them to remain vigilant around amusement rides. Police Colonel Prapas Kaewcheed emphasised the importance of parental supervision. “I hope this serves as a lesson to parents to always keep a close eye on their children.” In related news, a female student tragically fell to her death from the fifth floor of a condominium early last Sunday. The incident occurred in the Mueang Ake community in Pathum Thani, where police and rescue services were swiftly summoned to the scene. Upon arrival at the eight-story condominium complex, the emergency personnel discovered the victim, identified as a 27 year old woman, lying on her back on the ground-level parking deck. In other news, a man remains unaccounted for after plunging from the Krung Thon Bridge into the Chao Phraya River, sparking an urgent search operation. At 1.22pm yesterday, April 17, authorities were alerted to the incident, prompting rescue teams to rush to the site. Photo of Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Metro UK Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Jomtien Beach’s Songkran splash sees a dip in tourists by Bob Scott Jomtien Beach in Chon Buri experienced a noticeable dip in the usual influx of visitors during the recent Songkran celebration. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325324-one-way-traffic-takes-toll-on-tourism-at-jomtien-beach/?do=findComment&comment=18853749

Jomtien Beach’s Songkran splash sees a dip in tourists by Bob Scott Jomtien Beach in Chon Buri experienced a noticeable dip in the usual influx of visitors during the recent Songkran celebration. The local businesses situated in the area attribute this decline to the newly introduced one-way traffic system, which they believe has puzzled and deterred potential tourists. Poolsawat Singhsawasdi, a vendor operating on the beachfront, expressed her concerns to the local press. The 55 year old revealed that the numbers of tourists from April 12 to April 16 were average, markedly missing the usual surge of crowds that flock to the area during the typical Songkran holiday period. Poolsawat proposed that this downturn in tourism might be a consequence of the recent alterations to Pattaya’s traffic regulations, including the adoption of a one-way system on Pattaya Beach Road. She suggested that several tourists have struggled to adapt to this new system, resulting in frustration and complaints about the need to backtrack during their journeys. Despite the adverse impact of the traffic system on tourism, Poolsawat mentioned that her earnings from renting out beach umbrellas have remained stable. However, this income is only sufficient for her to scrape by. She anticipates that tourism in Jomtien Beach will continue to be lacklustre during the forthcoming Wanlai festival today, April 19. She reasoned that most individuals prefer to meander through the streets participating in water play, rather than lounging on beach benches, reported Pattaya News. “The new traffic system may have confused some tourists and could have led to fewer visitors. Many have complained about having to drive back and forth due to the one-way system.” In related news, a major makeover is unfolding along the 2.7-kilometre coastline of Pattaya Beach. Spearheaded by Deputy Mayor Manoch Nongyai the project is set to redefine the city’s landscape and will be completed ahead of the original deadline. Funded by a 166 million baht budget, this facelift aims to boost the city’s image and enhance amenities for residents and tourists alike. Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Shinawatra saga: Yingluck’s comeback fuels legal limelight by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation Former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra’s potential return from exile sparks intrigue over her legal fate, mirroring her brother Thaksin’s tumultuous history, claims the Shinawatras’ lawyer. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325344-shinawatra-saga-yingluck’s-comeback-fuels-legal-limelight/

Former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra’s potential return from exile sparks intrigue over her legal fate, mirroring her brother Thaksin’s tumultuous history, claims the Shinawatras’ lawyer. Pichit Chuenban, a figure linked to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s Cabinet due to his close allegiance to the Shinawatras, responded to speculation about Yingluck’s comeback. “I really don’t know. I’m only taking care of her case.” Yingluck’s brother, ex-PM Thaksin, hinted at her possible return during a recent Songkran visit to Chiang Mai, expressing a desire to reunite for festivities. Pichit affirmed that Yingluck must adhere to legal protocols upon return, akin to her brother’s journey. However, he vehemently denied any preferential treatment towards Thaksin, stressing his compliance with due legal process. The possibility of a clandestine arrangement for Thaksin’s return last August, following a pardon reducing his sentence, ignited speculation. Recently granted parole on health grounds, Thaksin’s situation remains a topic of scrutiny. Pichit refuted claims of personal conversations with Yingluck regarding her return, having only notified her of acquittal earlier this year. Yingluck, ousted by a military coup like her brother, fled before sentencing linked to a rice-pledging scheme. Despite past legal entanglements, Yingluck saw two recent Supreme Court acquittals: one in December for malfeasance related to a security council chief’s transfer, and another in March for alleged collusion in a PR campaign contract. Pichit’s controversial past, including a brief jail stint for contempt of court, adds another layer to the saga. Initially considered for a government role, he faced public backlash and withdrawal from consideration, reported The Nation. Amidst rumours of ministerial posts in Srettha’s reshuffle, Pichit maintains ignorance. “I know nothing. I’m focused on my work.” ORIGINAL STORY: Former Thai PM Yingluck cleared in major corruption case The Supreme Court’s Criminal Case Division for Holders of Political Positions yesterday delivered a resounding verdict, absolving Yingluck Shinawatra and five co-defendants of malfeasance and corruption allegations. The charges stemmed from the allocation of a hefty 240-million-baht campaign budget aimed at promoting the Yingluck government’s ambitious 2-trillion-baht infrastructure projects. Commenting on the verdict, Thanaporn Sriyakul, director of the Political and Public Policy Analysis Institute, pointed out potential legal avenues that could pave the way for Yingluck’s return. He highlighted recent regulations concerning parole and inmate detention outside prison, suggesting that these factors might influence Yingluck’s decision. Thanaporn alluded to the infamous rice-pledging case that shadows Yingluck’s legacy. “It’s plausible that Yingluck will follow a similar path as Thaksin but her return hinges on various factors, including her willingness to face punishment and the possibility of a royal pardon.” The court’s unanimous decision, voting 9-0 in favour of acquittal, dealt a blow to the National Anti-Corruption Commission’s accusations against Yingluck and her co-defendants. Notably, the court also rescinded the arrest warrant previously issued for Yingluck in connection with this case. The crux of the legal dispute revolved around allegations of impropriety in awarding contracts for the Roadshow to Thailand’s Future Thailand 2020 campaign. The prosecution argued that Yingluck and her associates bypassed public tenders, favouring select companies for the project. However, the court found no evidence of bias or wrongdoing, asserting that the budget allocation adhered to procurement regulations, reported Bangkok Post. Moreover, the court underscored the approval of Yingluck’s government projects by relevant authorities at the time, dismissing claims of misappropriation or wasteful expenditure. This latest acquittal adds to Yingluck’s legal victories, including her exoneration in a 2011 controversy over a National Security Council appointment. Nevertheless, the spectre of the rice-pledging scandal still looms large over Yingluck’s legacy. Fleeing in 2017 following a conviction in the rice-pledging programme, Yingluck remains a fugitive with an active arrest warrant. by Mitch Connor Top Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Xi Jinping’s bullet train gift sparks China-Thailand railway reality by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of CNBC A replica of China’s Fuxing bullet train, bedecked in Thailand’s national colours and gifted during the 29th APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Bangkok in November 2022, now finds itself at the epicentre of a transformative railway saga between China and Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325343-xi-jinping’s-bullet-train-gift-sparks-china-thailand-railway-reality/

A replica of China’s Fuxing bullet train, bedecked in Thailand’s national colours and gifted during the 29th APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Bangkok in November 2022, now finds itself at the epicentre of a transformative railway saga between China and Thailand. As the wheels of progress turn, the construction of the China-Thailand Railway, a flagship venture under the Belt and Road cooperation framework, gains pace, promising to redefine Southeast Asia’s transportation landscape with cutting-edge rail technology. Last April marked a pivotal moment as a freight train laden with durians embarked on a historic journey, traversing Thailand, Laos, and China, culminating in Guangdong province. Clocking a mere five days, this odyssey highlighted the railway’s efficiency, outstripping traditional maritime routes by at least a week. Upon completion, the China-Thailand Railway will seamlessly merge with the China-Laos Railway, weaving a tapestry of connectivity across the Indochina Peninsula, and bolstering infrastructure ties throughout Southeast Asia. Pitiwat Angsuviriya, a mechanical engineering protégé hailing from Khon Kaen University, reflects on President Xi’s visit, resonating with the spirit of international cooperation amidst post-pandemic uncertainties. “President Xi’s visit to Thailand remains a beacon of hope, symbolising unity amidst global challenges.” The aftermath of Xi’s visit ushered in a new era of collaboration, with China resuming group tour services, facilitating Pitiwat’s enrolment in a transformative railway training programme. Armed with newfound expertise, Pitiwat envisions spearheading Thailand’s railway renaissance, underscoring the pivotal role of high-speed rail in Southeast Asia’s economic ascendancy. Xi’s inaugural visit to Thailand left an indelible mark on locals, with messages of camaraderie emblazoned across Bangkok’s skyline, reinforcing the enduring bond between China and Thailand. In the realm of commerce, China remains Thailand’s largest trading partner, with Thai durian, a prized commodity, finding a voracious market in China, exemplifying the fruits of robust transportation infrastructure, reported The Nation. Wichai Kinchong Choi, a banking luminary, extols the virtues of China’s investment, fuelling Thailand’s economic renaissance. “China’s steadfast commitment to openness and cooperation is steering Southeast Asia towards a brighter future.” Amidst calls for green development, China’s support for Thailand’s EV ambitions underscores a shared commitment to sustainability. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of CNBC Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Can a radical proposal save Phuket’s tourism crisis? by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English In a bid for autonomy, Phuket Mayor Saroj Angkanapilas is leading a daring move to transform the city into a special administrative organisation to save it from a tourism crisis. The current system, he claims, is holding back progress, leaving the island paradise struggling to keep pace with global rivals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325342-can-a-radical-proposal-save-phuket’s-tourism-crisis/

In a bid for autonomy, Phuket Mayor Saroj Angkanapilas is leading a daring move to transform the city into a special administrative organisation to save it from a tourism crisis. The current system, he claims, is holding back progress, leaving the island paradise struggling to keep pace with global rivals. “Tourist cities in many countries are far ahead in their development, so Phuket will lose its competitive edge if it continues to use the same administrative system.” Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has yet to receive the proposal but indicated willingness to consider it. With over 10 million tourists inundating Phuket annually, the strain on infrastructure is palpable. Current funds, based on registered residents, fall woefully short of meeting the island’s needs. The proposed Phuket City Administration Act 2018 promises a radical overhaul, envisaging a directly elected mayor and a slew of new laws to tackle pressing issues like waste management and traffic congestion, reported KhaoSod English. If successful, Phuket could emerge as a global contender in the tourism arena. In related news, as the extended Songkran holiday wrapped up on Tuesday, tourists bid farewell to the sun-kissed islands surrounding Pattaya, turning the Bali Hai Pier area into a buzzing hub of activity. Local authorities ramped up services to cater to the influx, ensuring convenience for visitors throughout the holiday period. Officers stationed at the pier witnessed a remarkable influx of tourists from April 12 to 15, with an average of 30,000 Thai visitors and foreign tourists per day seeking leisure and relaxation on the islands. On April 12 alone, 8,102 tourists set sail on island adventures via 42 ferry services. The numbers surged the following day, reaching 16,885 visitors served by 87 ferry trips. In other news, Thailand welcomed over 10 million foreign tourists this year alone, leading to revenue exceeding 500 billion baht, reported the Tourism and Sports Ministry. The data, up to date as of yesterday, shows 10,723,953 foreign visitors have contributed to an income of 518 billion baht. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand advances its bid for OECD membership to boost economy by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand is forging ahead with its application to become a member of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), a move that is anticipated to significantly enhance the country’s economic growth. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325341-thailand-advances-its-bid-for-oecd-membership-to-boost-economy/

Thailand is forging ahead with its application to become a member of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), a move that is anticipated to significantly enhance the country’s economic growth. The Thai Foreign Affairs Minister, Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, took a proactive step on Tuesday, April 16, by submitting an official letter of intent to Mathias Cormann, the secretary-general of the OECD, at the organisation’s French headquarters. In a compelling speech, Minister Parnpree articulated Thailand’s readiness and resolute commitment to fast-track its OECD membership. He highlighted that Thailand aligns with the core values and objectives of the OECD, encompassing democracy, the rule of law, human rights, a free-market economy, sustainability, inclusivity, and a dedicated green transition. Minister Parnpree brought attention to Thailand’s four-decade-long involvement with the OECD and its ambitious goal of achieving the status of an advanced economy by 2037. The desire for OECD membership was met with support from member nations, who encouraged an expedited process for Thailand’s accession. The OECD, a pivotal player in international governance, influences crucial sectors such as economy, trade, investment, anti-corruption measures, education, innovation, the environment, and climate change. With 38 member countries, the organization aims to assist in formulating effective public policies under the mission statement “Better policies for better lives.” Reflecting on his address, Minister Parnpree noted that Thailand is the sole country within ASEAN that has maintained close relations with the OECD for a remarkable 42 years. This affiliation has helped to elevate Thailand’s business standards, governance, trade, environmental considerations, competitiveness, and green economy. GDP increase Pointing to a study conducted by the Thailand Development Research Institute, Minister Parnpree noted that OECD membership could potentially increase GDP by 1.6%, equating to an estimated economic value of around 270 billion baht. He argued that OECD membership could bolster Thailand’s economic security, given the developed status of its other member nations. As Thailand aims to navigate beyond the middle-income trap and achieve developed nation status by 2037, Minister Parnpree believes OECD membership would attract increased foreign investment, thereby creating more jobs for Thai citizens. He also noted the potential benefits of OECD’s Green Growth Strategy for Thailand, particularly in human resources development in the environmental sector. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin will lead a committee dedicated to accelerating Thailand’s efforts to secure OECD membership. The Green Growth Strategy, as Minister Parnpree explained, offers guidance and measurement tools to aid countries in pursuing sustainable, environmentally friendly economic growth, reported Bangkok Post. by Alex Morgan Top Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok aims to reduce plastic use with more water refill stations by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation To combat plastic pollution, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA)’s Bottle Free Seas project has proven to be a roaring success, with plans now underway to expand its reach by installing an additional 200 drinking water refill points across the city. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325340-bangkok-aims-to-reduce-plastic-use-with-more-water-refill-stations/

To combat plastic pollution, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA)’s Bottle Free Seas project has proven to be a roaring success, with plans now underway to expand its reach by installing an additional 200 drinking water refill points across the city. Launched last August, this eco-initiative has already made a significant dent in plastic bottle consumption, slashing the usage of a staggering 456,894 plastic bottles. Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, the brains behind this green revolution, revealed that the refill stations, set up in partnership with the Environmental Justice Foundation, aim to provide a convenient alternative to plastic bottles for the public. “Every time a bottle is refilled at these stations, one less single-use plastic bottle is used.” Currently, these free drinking water refill stations are strategically located at various hotspots across the city, including Benjakitti Park, Bangkok Art and Culture Centre, CentralWorld, Seacon Square, Fortune Town, Thanaburi Ramya Park, Wachirabenchathat Park, Na Phra Lan Tunnel, and Tha Maharaj shopping centre, reported The Nation. With plans to extend the project’s footprint to public health service centres, district offices, and more public parks, Governor Chadchart has called upon the private sector and philanthropic organisations to join forces in this noble cause. “If everybody collaborates, we will be able to achieve the installation target in the blink of an eye.” ORIGINAL STORY: Bangkok free water refill plan to reduce plastic use Central Pattana, alongside influential partners, spearheads the Bottle Free Seas campaign, urging Bangkokians to swap bottles for reusable options. With a staggering 70 million plastic bottles drowning Bangkok monthly, the initiative aims to flood the city with free water dispensers, starting with the iconic Central World shopping mall. The campaign, a collaborative effort between Central Pattana, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), the Environmental Justice Foundation, and Brilliant Power Co Ltd, was inaugurated by none other than BMA governor Chadchart Sittipunt himself. In a symbolic gesture, Sittipunt championed the cause by refilling his thermos at the newly installed dispenser in front of Central World. With plans to sprinkle nine more water dispensers across Bangkok, the BMA and private partners are tackling the ocean of plastic pollution generated by the city’s insatiable thirst for bottled water. An alarming 70 million plastic bottles are discarded monthly, prompting the launch of the Bottle Free Seas programme. The partners are determined to ride the wave towards a sustainable ecosystem, aligning with Thailand’s ambitious net-zero goal by 2050, reported The Nation. Uthaiwan Anuchitanukul, Assistant Managing Director of Central Pattana, expressed the company’s commitment to nipping single-use plastic in the bud. “Central Pattana wants to make a splash in reducing plastic waste, and that’s why we’ve enthusiastically joined the campaign, installing a water dispenser right at the heart of Central World. Tourists and locals alike are encouraged to ride the green wave by refilling their bottles at our dispenser.” by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

British man arrested for begging to buy drugs in Koh Pha Ngan by Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon Thai police arrested a British man after he allegedly begged for money to buy drugs outside a convenience store in Koh Pha Ngan, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325339-british-man-arrested-for-begging-to-buy-drugs-in-koh-pha-ngan/

Thai police arrested a British man after he allegedly begged for money to buy drugs outside a convenience store in Koh Pha Ngan, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani. Locals on Koh Pha Ngan reported to authorities after seeing a foreign man begging outside a 7-Eleven convenience store and using drugs in the area. Officers from the Koh Pha Ngan Police Station and the Tourist Police went to the store near the Phan Thip Market and arrested the foreigner yesterday, April 17. The foreign beggar was identified as a 47 year old Englishman named Nicholas James Hartas. He was found sitting shirtless outside the store with a paper sign that said, “IF YOU CAN. PLEASE! MONEY FOR FOOD.” Police checked Hartas’s criminal history and found that he had escaped arrest in a drug case in Koh Samui and sought refuge in Koh Pha Ngan. Hartas confessed to fleeing from the arrest in Koh Samui, stating that he resorted to begging for food. However, residents informed the police that the majority of the money earned from begging was used to purchase drugs. Officers did not report whether they conducted a drug test on Hartas or found any drugs in his possession. According to MGR Online, Hartas faced two charges: Section 13 of the Begging Control Act: illegally begging. The penalty is imprisonment of up to one month or a fine of up to 10,000 baht. Section 145 of the Narcotics Control Act: possessing Category 1 drug (methamphetamine). The penalty is imprisonment from two to 20 years and a fine of 200,000 to 2 million baht. A similar story about a foreign beggar in Thailand was reported in February. Pictures showed a foreign beggar performing yoga in exchange for money on a footpath near Mor Chit BTS Station in Bangkok. He did several yoga gestures with a sign written in Thai, “I want money 20 baht or more for a plane ticket back home. Thank you.” Thai authorities attempted to arrest and question the foreign beggar, but he disappeared from the scene before the authorities launched the investigation. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 19 April 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325335-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-19-april-2024/

The deputy national chief of police surachate harkpan and four others have been suspended after being accused of involvement with money laundering and an online gambling network, The suspensions follow a meeting yesterday between the head of police and the prime minister. a new committee was established to investigate the five suspects, all have the right to appeal. The department for Digital Economy says it’s planning to return more than 10 billion bahts worth of money and assets seized from call centre scam gangs to their victims. The Anti-Money Laundering Office known as Amlo said it was having a clear out and would distribute more than 6 billion baht cash, seized since 2021 to scam victims. The Move Forward Party has proposed a bill in order to punish ministers and officials who fail to testify after being summoned. The bill purposes that MPs who fail to show up would face investigation while government officials would be subject to disciplinary action. The draft law is meant to allow the House committees to conduct their work more effectively. The government yesterday approved 1.8 billion baht in financial assistance to the Lao government, to maintain and improve a major highway which will shorten the journey time from Nakhon Phanom in Thailand, through Laos, to the border with Vietnam. The funds will also be used to upgrade cargo terminals, storage facilities, road lighting and public utilities. Two English media companies The Tiger and Asean Now have merged, i asked George Anderssen from Asean Now to explain Around the region Indonesia: almost 12,000 civil servants will move to Nu-santara in September, marking the first phase of inhabiting the country's new capital in East Kali-man-tan. The government will cover the cost of flights. In addition, each civil servant is expected to receive one apartment unit in the new capital.. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: sunny 37 C Bangkok: Sunny 38C Pattaya: sunny, 35C Phuket and the south: Sunny, partly cloudy 33C Hua Hin: Sunny, light cloud this afternoon 35C AQI Orange 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 2024-04-19 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pheu Thai Looks To Take Back House Speaker Seat By Thai Newsroom Reporters House Speaker Wan Muhamad Nor Matha. Photo: Thai Rath THE PHEU THAI PLANS TO quietly press the Prachachart to return the post of House Speaker to the largest ruling party soon after the first round of cabinet reshuffle has been done, a partisan source said today (Apr 18). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325328-pheu-thai-looks-to-take-back-house-speaker-seat/

THE PHEU THAI PLANS TO quietly press the Prachachart to return the post of House Speaker to the largest ruling party soon after the first round of cabinet reshuffle has been done, a partisan source said today (Apr 18). Given the fact that the Pheu Thai remains as core of the current coalition government with 141 MPs on their side, the Prachachart with only nine MPs led by Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong is sooner than later bound to return the highest seat in the legislative branch to the Pheu Thai, according to the partisan source who only spoke on condition of anonymity. The Prachachart-attached House Speaker Wan Muhamad Nor Matha was not available to comment while Tawee denied he had been pressed by the ruling Pheu Thai, albeit in behind-the-scenes fashion, over that matter. By Thai Newsroom Reporters TOP: House Speaker Wan Muhamad Nor Matha. Photo: Thai Rath Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Truck brake failure leads to fatal crash in Chiang Mai by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic accident occurred yesterday at 2.45pm in the Hod district of Chiang Mai when a six-wheeled truck’s brakes reportedly failed, causing it to crash into a procession of revellers. The incident resulted in the death of two individuals and serious injuries to two others. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325327-truck-brake-failure-leads-to-fatal-crash-in-chiang-mai/

A tragic accident occurred yesterday at 2.45pm in the Hod district of Chiang Mai when a six-wheeled truck’s brakes reportedly failed, causing it to crash into a procession of revellers. The incident resulted in the death of two individuals and serious injuries to two others. The procession was part of a traditional ceremony in which participants were enjoying themselves in a parade, carrying a revered Pho tree up the mountain, a ritual known for its vibrant and lively atmosphere. Unexpectedly, the brake failure led to the truck ploughing through the crowd in Ban Bo Luang village, striking the unsuspecting participants. The police chief of Bo Luang Police Station, Anuphap Chaisiri, was alerted to the mass casualty event by the local health centre in Ban Bo Luang. The initial assessment of the victims identified two in critical condition, classified as red patients, one with less severe injuries, a yellow patient, and one with minor injuries, a green patient. All four injured individuals were promptly transported to Hod Hospital for emergency care. Despite the efforts to save them, two of the victims succumbed to their injuries following their arrival at the hospital. The remaining injured are currently receiving medical treatment, and their conditions have yet to be updated. The Thai authorities are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident to determine the exact cause and to establish whether any measures could have been taken to prevent this tragedy, reported KhaoSod. The truck driver’s responsibility and the mechanical state of the vehicle are central to the ongoing inquiry. In related news, a 26 year old Thai woman crashed her pickup into a traffic police officer on Highway No. 21 in the central province of Lop Buri on April 16, causing serious injuries to the officer. The accident occurred at Ban Deelang Intersection on Highway No. 21, also known as Saraburi-Lomsak Road, in the Pattana Nikhom district of Lop Buri province. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-19 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe