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Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin posted a message on X to “Welcome reports that Aung San Suu Kyi and former President Win Myint have been moved from prison to their homes due to the hot weather, The PM added The Thai Government calls for further positive steps leading to their immediate full release in order to advance the implementation of the ASEAN Five-Point Consensus plan. An ice factory in Chonburi Province, leaked ammonia, late last night injuring more than 60 local residents with burning eyes and noses, some lost consciousness. First aid was given and the area was cordoned off for 1 kilometer around the factory. A Chinese woman and man who stole a diamond and gold bracelet worth over 1 million baht from a jewelry shop in Bangkok on Tuesday have already left Thailand. According to police. CCTV showed the woman asking to try on an item, and while the staff were busy, she quickly fled the store. From their the two took a taxi directly to the airport where they boarded a flight Police stopped a car and seized 80 million baht in cash which was being transported towards Maya-waddy in Myanmar. The seizure was part of a larger operation to capture scammers who tricked victims into investing in cryptocurrency through fake platforms. A 43 year old volunteer security officer was shot in the head and killed while reading the Quran at his father's grave in Yala yesterday. Police found a spent 9-milimetre cartridge and were hunting for the killer. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin met New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at Government House yesterday where they agreed to enter a "Strategic Partnership" in 2026 this will mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties. More than 15 million trips were made via public transport modes during the Songkran festival, up 7.92% from the previous year, according to the Transport Ministry. there were 13,877,651 vehicles travelling in and out of Bangkok during the holiday. Road accidents killed 243 people and injured 1,837 others during the six days of the Songkran festival holiday. Around the region China’s military said that it sent fighter jets to monitor and warn a US Navy patrol aircraft that flew over the sensitive Taiwan Strait, the mission that took place just hours after a call between Chinese and US defence chiefs. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: sunny 39 C Bangkok: Sunny 37C Pattaya: sunny, then fairly cloudy 29C Phuket and the south: Sunny, partly cloudy 33C Hua Hin: Sunny, light cloud this afternoon 35 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 2024-04-18 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Vendors’ dispute escalates to violence at Pattaya’s Bali Hai Pier by Top Picture courtesy of สยามชล นิวส์ Facebook A violent altercation erupted among vendors at the Bali Hai Pier in Pattaya yesterday morning, April 17, leaving four people wounded, one in grave condition. The dispute, which escalated to include the use of a knife, took place in the parking area of the pier in South Pattaya around 9.30am. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325222-vendors’-dispute-escalates-to-violence-at-pattaya’s-bali-hai-pier/

A violent altercation erupted among vendors at the Bali Hai Pier in Pattaya yesterday morning, April 17, leaving four people wounded, one in grave condition. The dispute, which escalated to include the use of a knife, took place in the parking area of the pier in South Pattaya around 9.30am. Rescue personnel were swiftly on the scene following reports from alarmed locals. They discovered four victims bearing various injuries. These included 51 year old Wanchai Khanthavit, who had sustained a stab wound to his left rib, causing a rupture in his intestines. His son, 31 year old Watchai Khanthavit, had been stabbed in his left armpit. Fifty six year old Kecha Lumpha and 30 year old Marut Lumpha both had bruising from blows received during the brawl. Immediate medical attention was provided, with all four victims being transported to Pattaya City Hospital. Wanchai Khanthavit’s condition has been reported as critical. Eyewitness reports suggest that the conflict was instigated by a disagreement between two groups of vendors over the allocation of selling spaces to cater to tourists waiting to embark on their journey to Koh Larn from the pier. What started as a verbal dispute rapidly escalated into physical violence, with a knife being drawn by an unidentified vendor and used against another, reported The Pattaya News. A bystander managed to capture the violent encounter in a video, which shows Watchai Khanthavit intervening in an attempt to assist his father, Wanchai, and consequently being stabbed. The Pattaya police have launched an investigation into the incident, with the perpetrator having been identified. They are currently scrutinising CCTV footage and are on the hunt for the suspect involved in the act of violence. In related news, a 23 year old man’s visit to a motorcycle repair shop in Nakhon Ratchasima turned deadly when an argument over motorcycle noise escalated into a fatal shooting. The confrontation began with a slap and ended with the young man returning with three friends and firearms, resulting in the death of a 27 years old man at the scene. by Top Picture courtesy of สยามชล นิวส์ Facebook Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Chemical explosion at Banglamung ice factory affects over 60 people by Top Top Picture courtesy of Pattaya Rescue Facebook A chemical explosion disrupted the peaceful night in Nongprue, near Pattaya, at the Banglamung Ice Factory last night, April 17. The explosion, taking place around 11.36pm, unleashed a cloud of chemicals into the sky, prompting swift action from local authorities. By 4am today, the situation was under control, with no deaths or severe injuries reported. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325211-overnight-ice-factory-explosion-leads-to-chemical-hazard-at-least-60-people-injured/?do=findComment&comment=18850863

Chemical explosion at Banglamung ice factory affects over 60 people by Top Top Picture courtesy of Pattaya Rescue Facebook A chemical explosion disrupted the peaceful night in Nongprue, near Pattaya, at the Banglamung Ice Factory last night, April 17. The explosion, taking place around 11.36pm, unleashed a cloud of chemicals into the sky, prompting swift action from local authorities. By 4am today, the situation was under control, with no deaths or severe injuries reported. The District Chief of Bang Lamung, Weekit Manarojkit, was promptly notified about the incident at the factory located at No. 54, Village No. 12, Nong Prue Subdistrict. The explosion caused a spread of chemicals over an area of more than one kilometre, triggering a significant emergency response. Emergency personnel, including Nong Prue Municipality land disaster prevention officials and rescue workers from Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Pattaya, rushed to the scene. Their immediate task was to evacuate locals and secure a perimeter of 2 kilometres to ensure public safety. The chemicals believed to be released in the explosion were suspected to be ammonia. This had a severe and immediate impact on the local population, with over 60 people affected. Injuries ranged from fainting to respiratory distress and irritation of the eyes and nose. The rescue teams provided initial medical treatment at the scene before the victims were transferred to nearby healthcare facilities for further care. Fortunately, there were no severe injuries or deaths. Locals, who live near the ice factory, described the explosion as a deafening noise followed by the release of a harmful cloud of chemicals causing burning sensations when inhaled. Panic ensued, with many fleeing for safety, while others were immobilised by the fumes. As the situation unfolded, District Chief Manarojkit, along with other administrative officials, arrived to supervise the rescue efforts. The exact number of injured individuals is still uncertain. Rescue operations are ongoing, with teams working relentlessly to reach affected individuals and provide necessary assistance, reported The Pattaya News. Investigations into the cause of the explosion have commenced. The police are keen to prevent similar incidents in the future and ensure the safety of their citizens. Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Big Joke requests time as Bangkok police station weighs cases against him and the police chief by James Morris and Son Nguyen An authorised lawyer for General Surachate Hakparn or ‘Big Joke’, 27-year-old Ms Pimpisut Chanlert, requested an extension of ten days for the top policeman to deliver his testimony in the money laundering case against him. She filed the request on Wednesday at Tao Poon Police Station, which is prosecuting the case. She cited a need to collate large volumes of data to properly present his defence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325221-big-joke-requests-time-as-bangkok-police-station-weighs-cases-against-him/

An authorised lawyer for General Surachate Hakparn or ‘Big Joke’, 27-year-old Ms Pimpisut Chanlert, requested an extension of ten days for the top policeman to deliver his testimony in the money laundering case against him. She filed the request on Wednesday at Tao Poon Police Station, which is prosecuting the case. She cited a need to collate large volumes of data to properly present his defence. ‘Big Joke’ seeks 10-day delay in money laundering case. Bangkok police station handles cases against him and the police chief amid intense scrutiny. It follows a complaint filed by lawyer-activist Sittra Biebangkerd there against the police chief General Torsak Sukwimol. A lawyer for suspended Deputy National Police Chief General Surachate Hakparn, on Wednesday, asked for a 10-day extension to submit his defence testimony in the money laundering case against him. 27-year-old Ms Pimpisut Chanlert made the request under the glare of media cameras at Tao Poon Police Station in Bangkok. The country is avidly watching the progress of this case. It sees Thailand’s most popular policeman fighting for his career. General Surachate is charged before the court with money laundering. The case is linked to the illegal gambling website BNK Master. At the same time, similar and extensive allegations concerning dozens of police officers and suspended National Police Chief, Torsak Sukwimol are also being examined at the same police station. It follows a criminal complaint by lawyer Sittra Biebangkerd. However, no prosecution or charges have been decided upon in that case. Deputy Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police, Police General Surachate Hakparn, commonly known as ‘Big Joke,’ has requested a postponement in providing testimony for his ongoing money laundering case. A representative from his legal team, attorney Ms Pimpisut Chanlert, attended Tao Poon Police Station on April 17, 2024. Full story: Thai Examiner.com 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourist Depressed At Condition Of Lopburi Zoo by TNR Staff Lopburi zoo animals. Photos from Kritsada Chaisongkram’s Facebook page and shared by Thai Rath A THAI tourist who visited Lopburi zoo wrote about the pitiful condition of the animals in the current excruciating heat having noticed that there was no water in some cages but the zoo management headed off the criticism by saying the animals are being regularly given water with there being taps in the cages and monkeys know how to use it, Thai Rath newspaper said today (Apr. 17). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325218-tourist-depressed-at-condition-of-lopburi-zoo/

A THAI tourist who visited Lopburi zoo wrote about the pitiful condition of the animals in the current excruciating heat having noticed that there was no water in some cages but the zoo management headed off the criticism by saying the animals are being regularly given water with there being taps in the cages and monkeys know how to use it, Thai Rath newspaper said today (Apr. 17). Facebook user Kritsada Chaisongkram posted pictures of animals at this zoo with a message saying: “RIP Lopburi zoo #Please state your opinion, since it’s like this, it’s better not to have it at all, I feel sorry for the animals. “When I arrived I was not very impressed, it’s very hot in the cages, didn’t see water, in some cages the animals lay as if they were dead, there was not a drop of water, don’t know how they are giving water, or maybe they let the animals open the tap and drink themselves.” by TNR Staff TOP: Lopburi zoo animals. Photos from Kritsada Chaisongkram’s Facebook page and shared by Thai Rath Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Prayut’s Protege Tipped To Be Named Deputy Defence Minister By Thai Newsroom Reporters Former prime minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and his protege Nattapon Nakpanich. Photo: Amarin TV NATTAPON NAKPANICH who is largely expected to be named a deputy defence minister in an imminent cabinet reshuffle has been more or less known as a protege of former coup leader-turned-prime minister/now privy councillor Prayut Chan-o-cha, according to a prominent NIDA director. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325215-prayut’s-protege-tipped-to-be-named-deputy-defence-minister/

NATTAPON NAKPANICH who is largely expected to be named a deputy defence minister in an imminent cabinet reshuffle has been more or less known as a protege of former coup leader-turned-prime minister/now privy councillor Prayut Chan-o-cha, according to a prominent NIDA director. NIDA’s Political & Strategic Development Project Director Pichai Ratanadilok na Phuket commented today (Apr. 17) Nattapon, a former deputy army chief and current secretary-general to Defence Minister Suthin Khlangsang, could probably manage to serve the interests of the powers-that-be including, among others, the former prime minister to whom he is personally intimate. Nattapon could practically perform as a link between de facto Pheu Thai boss-cum-convict on parole Thaksin Shinawatra as well as all his men in government and among the ruling party’s rank and file and the former prime minister, currently known as de facto Ruam Thai Sang Chart boss, according to the NIDA academic. Pichai was responding to hearsay Suthin would likely be reshuffled out of the defence portfolio – the first-ever cabinet seat which he has been assuming in the current cabinet, a reshuffle of which is anticipated to take place sooner than later whilst Pheu Thai-backed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is largely speculated to assume the defence portfolio in concurrent fashion. By Thai Newsroom Reporters TOP: Former prime minister Prayut Chan-o-cha and his protege Nattapon Nakpanich. Photo: Amarin TV Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai man and foreigner clash over water splash dispute (video) by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 6 A water splash dispute between a foreign man and a Thai man became more than a storm in a coffee cup at a petrol station in the eastern province of Rayong sparking controversy on Thai social media. The argument reportedly began when the Thai man splashed water into the foreign man’s coffee cup. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325214-thai-man-and-foreigner-clash-over-water-splash-dispute-video/

A water splash dispute between a foreign man and a Thai man became more than a storm in a coffee cup at a petrol station in the eastern province of Rayong sparking controversy on Thai social media. The argument reportedly began when the Thai man splashed water into the foreign man’s coffee cup. The Thai man, identified only as Sorn, is seeking justice by posting a video of the incident at the petrol station on April 14 on social media. In the video, the foreign man and his Thai wife can be seen arguing with a group of Thai people who were in a pickup truck preparing to participate in a water fight in Rayong. Due to the chaotic situation, the conversation between the two parties was difficult to comprehend in the video. Sorn informed PPTV HD that he sprayed the foreign man with a water gun as the foreigner walked by with a cup of coffee in his hand. Sorn stated that he noticed the foreigner was unhappy because water spilt into his coffee. So, he apologised to the man. According to Sorn, the foreign man was not satisfied with his apology. Allegedly, the foreign man used offensive language towards Sorn, insulted him, and threw the coffee cup at his family’s car. Sorn mentioned that he bought the foreigner a new cup of coffee but his wife threw it away and accused him of speaking rudely. Sorn insisted he did not use offensive language or behave poorly towards the couple. Sorn said the Thai woman told him that she was a dentist in Rayong. She and her husband paid significant taxes to Thailand annually. However, Sorn found this unrelated to the issue. Opinions divided Sorn further claimed that the Thai woman threatened to file a lawsuit against him and would demand high compensation if he released a video of the altercation to the public. Sorn said he splashed many people who walked by and no one was angry at him because it was the Songkran festival. He expressed his efforts to apologise to the couple and encouraged netizens to voice their opinions. Opinions among netizens were split. Some supported Sorn, arguing that the couple should not go out if they did not want to get wet during Songkran. Others believed the couple’s anger was unwarranted since their belongings were unaffected. “It’s Songkran for heaven’s sake. Respect Thai culture. If people splash water at you during Songkran you should make a wai, be grateful, say thank you and wish them a happy new year. If you don’t want to get wet then stay at home or in your car. Unacceptable behaviour from both the farang husband and his Thai wife. Shame on them.” Others viewed the incident differently, suggesting that Sorn should not randomly splash water on people. Many Thais and foreigners preferred not to participate in water fights, and Sorn’s actions could result in legal consequences. According to the law, Sorn could face imprisonment for up to one month, a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or both if the water splashing causes physical harm. If the water splashing damages victims’ belongings, the penalty could be imprisonment for up to three years, a fine of up to 60,000 baht, or both. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 6 Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Move Forward party given until May 3rd to submit charter court defence The Constitutional Court has agreed to give the Move Forward party another 15 days to present evidence in its defence against an application, by the Election Commission, seeking the dissolution of the party and banishment of its executive committee members from politics for 10 years, on charges of attempting to overthrow the country’s Constitutional Monarchy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325213-move-forward-party-given-until-may-3rd-to-submit-charter-court-defence/

The Constitutional Court has agreed to give the Move Forward party another 15 days to present evidence in its defence against an application, by the Election Commission, seeking the dissolution of the party and banishment of its executive committee members from politics for 10 years, on charges of attempting to overthrow the country’s Constitutional Monarchy. Earlier, the court gave until April 18 for the presentation of its defence, but the party asked for an extension to May 3. The Constitutional Court has already found the party guilty of attempting to overthrow Constitutional Monarchy for its election campaign to amend Article 112 of the Criminal Code, more commonly called the lèse majesté law. Besides the presentation of evidence, the Move Forward party hopes that the court will conduct an enquiry, which would allow the party to present witnesses to support its case. Move Forward has denied that it has a new party in reserve, in case it is dissolved by the court, so that its MPs, who are not executive committee members, can join the new party without having to seek shelter in rival parties. Source: Thai PBS 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Reckless Driving on Pha Ngan Island: Foreigners’ Beachside SUV Stunt Sparks Safety Concerns VIDEO By Goongnang Suksawat Surat Thani, Thailand – In a recent incident that has sparked widespread concern, a video surfaced online showing an SUV recklessly racing along Baan Kai Beach on Pha Ngan Island. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325212-reckless-driving-foreigners’-beachside-suv-stunt-sparks-safety-concerns-video/

‘Doi Suthep forest fires now under control’ – Chiang Mai Governor Forest fires on Doi Suthep (April 17, 2024) Forest fires broke out at two main spots on Doi Suthep, a famous tourist destination in Chiang Mai.The blaze can clearly be seen from a distance. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325210-‘doi-suthep-forest-fires-now-under-control’-–-chiang-mai-governor/

Overnight Pattaya Ice Factory Explosion Leads to Chemical Hazard, at Least 60 People Injured By Adam Judd Nongprue, Near Pattaya-In the late hours of April 17th, 2024, the quiet of Chonburi Province was shattered by an explosion at the Banglamung Ice Factory. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325211-overnight-ice-factory-explosion-leads-to-chemical-hazard-at-least-60-people-injured/

Surat Thani, Thailand – In a recent incident that has sparked widespread concern, a video surfaced online showing an SUV recklessly racing along Baan Kai Beach on Pha Ngan Island. The footage, posted to a local Facebook group on April 17th, depicts the vehicle performing dangerous drifts close to the shoreline, occasionally breaching into the sea water. According to the post, the SUV is believed to be rented, with both the driver and passenger appearing to be foreigners. This reckless behavior has raised alarms among the community, particularly regarding the safety protocols and regulations enforced by car rental operators. The individual who shared the video expressed frustration over the inability to reach local authorities, highlighting potential gaps in emergency response systems. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Nongprue, Near Pattaya-In the late hours of April 17th, 2024, the quiet of Chonburi Province was shattered by an explosion at the Banglamung Ice Factory. The blast, which occurred at approximately 11:36 p.m., sent chemical clouds billowing into the night sky, prompting immediate action from local officials. The District Chief of Bang Lamung, Mr. Weekit Manarojkit, was swiftly informed of the catastrophe that unfolded at the facility located at No. 54, Village No. 12, Nong Prue Subdistrict. The explosion resulted in a chemical spread covering an area exceeding one kilometer, leading to a significant emergency response. First responders, including land disaster prevention officials from Nong Prue Municipality and Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Pattaya rescue workers, converged on the scene. Their priority was the evacuation of individuals in the vicinity and the establishment of a perimeter, barring access within a two-kilometer radius to ensure public safety. The chemicals released, suspected to be ammonia, had immediate and severe effects on the local populace. More than 60 individuals suffered various injuries, ranging from loss of consciousness to respiratory distress and irritation of the eyes and nose. Rescue teams provided critical first aid before the victims were transported to nearby medical facilities for further treatment. Eyewitness accounts from villagers living near the ice factory described the moment of the explosion as deafening, followed by the emergence of a noxious cloud that caused a burning sensation upon inhalation. By Adam Judd Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Forest fires on Doi Suthep (April 17, 2024) Forest fires broke out at two main spots on Doi Suthep, a famous tourist destination in Chiang Mai.The blaze can clearly be seen from a distance. According to social media post by Nirat Pongsitthaworn, Chiang Mai Governor, the fires started at around 21:20 at the back of Nong Ho Buddha Dhamma Temple. Three hours later (00:20), the governor posted that 50 fire fighters were dispatched and the fire is now 100 percent under control, while the damage assessment will be reported later during the day. It is also reported that this is the first time in 3 years since wild fires broke out in these spots. Forest fire season in Thailand usually lasts from February to May. Apart from wild fires, Chiang Mai is also one of the provinces that currently suffers from air pollution problem. Source: Thai PBS 2024-04-18 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 18 April 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1325209-thailand-live-thursday-18-april-2024/

Thailand launches eco, astro, and digital nomad visas for 2024 travellers by Kamaljeet Singh Photo via Dall-E As you plan your upcoming trip to Thailand in 2024, staying updated on the changing visa regulations with careful attention and a positive outlook is crucial. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325151-thailand-launches-eco-astro-and-digital-nomad-visas-for-2024-travellers/

Crackdown on foreign criminals – spotlight on Phuket FILE PHOTO: The Phuket News The authorities in Thailand continue to crack down on foreign criminals operating businesses illegally, using Thai nominees, lacking work permits, overstaying and “stealing” Thai jobs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325164-crackdown-on-foreign-criminals-–-spotlight-on-phuket/

The six-day Songkran festival holiday in Thailand ended in tragedy as road accidents claimed the lives of 243 people and left 1,837 others injured. As announced by Education Minister Permpoon Chidchob on Wednesday, some 1,811 traffic accidents were recorded from April 11 to 16, coinciding with the period when many individuals travel back to their home provinces to join in the Songkran celebrations. Motorcycles were implicated in 84.9% of these traffic accidents. Songkran festival ends with 243 deaths in traffic accidents Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325172-songkran-festival-ends-with-243-deaths-in-traffic-accidents/