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Picture courtesy: Khaosod An Iranian man was apprehended at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport while attempting to flee Thailand. He is accused of committing an indecent act against a female rider. Authorities had been on the hunt for the suspect, identified as 31-year-old Mohsen Teimourbalghour, following a complaint lodged on 23rd February. The complaint reported that the incident occurred when the female rider was making a passenger delivery. In distress, she ran to a police station for assistance. Upon receiving the complaint, officers at Lumpini Police Station quickly began gathering evidence, including video footage and CCTV images, which confirmed the suspect's identity. Consequently, the Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant against Mr. Teimourbalghour on 24th February for "committing an indecent act on a person over 15 years old." With the arrest warrant in hand, authorities collaborated with immigration officials to track the suspect. On the evening of 24th February, officials at Suvarnabhumi Airport were alerted that Mr. Teimourbalghour was attempting to leave the country. Immigration police detained him at the airport and he was subsequently transferred to Lumpini Police Station for further questioning and legal proceedings, reported Khaosod. -- 2025-02-25

Baht Poised for Dip to 35 per USD by Mid-2025, Experts Predict File photo for reference only The Thai baht is predicted to weaken to around 35 per US dollar by mid-2025, according to forecasts from Standard Chartered Bank (Thai). This anticipated dip is largely attributed to escalating global trade tensions, particularly between the US and China. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352799-baht-poised-for-dip-to-35-per-usd-by-mid-2025-experts-predict/

File photo for reference only The Thai baht is predicted to weaken to around 35 per US dollar by mid-2025, according to forecasts from Standard Chartered Bank (Thai). This anticipated dip is largely attributed to escalating global trade tensions, particularly between the US and China. Tim Leelahaphan, Vice-President and Economist at the bank, highlights trade disputes among international partners as a principal factor in the baht’s expected depreciation. The prediction notes that by the second quarter of 2025, these tensions will negatively impact the baht's strength, though the currency is anticipated to partially rebound to approximately 34.50 by the year's end. This year is also set to see significant volatility in the baht compared to other regional currencies. Contributing factors include shifts in gold prices and the performance of Thailand’s vital tourism sector, Mr Tim explained. Reflecting on recent history, the baht began 2024 at about 34 to the USD, weakened to nearly 38 by August, then appreciated to 32, influenced heavily by internal political dynamics. It concluded the year steady at around 34 to the dollar. Looking forward, Standard Chartered expects the Bank of Thailand's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) to maintain its interest rate at 2.25% in its meeting tomorrow. This stance reflects ongoing economic recovery and stable prices, offering a balanced policy approach. The MPC will also weigh the potential risks from trade conflicts and monitor domestic economic conditions closely. Tim Leelahaphan remarked, "Our analysis points to an 80% probability that the central bank will keep the current policy rate during the upcoming meeting and into the next quarter. Any rate cut, potentially by 0.25 percentage points to 2%, is anticipated in June." There’s a strategic intent to preserve policy flexibility in anticipation of evolving trade tensions, particularly surrounding US trade policies, which are expected to become clearer by mid-year. Meanwhile, the US Federal Reserve is anticipated to delay policy rate adjustments previously expected sooner. Amidst these financial conditions, Standard Chartered forecasts Thailand's GDP will grow by 2.8% in 2025, buoyed by strong performances in tourism and domestic spending. Thailand’s tourism sector is notably recovering well, with foreign arrivals reaching 3.97 million by early February, matching pre-pandemic figures from 2019. This resurgence is expected to gain momentum in the second half of the year. Moreover, the third phase of the government’s digital wallet initiative, allocating a substantial 140 billion baht (approximately 1% of GDP), is set to commence in the second quarter, providing a further boost to consumer spending. Despite these positive indicators, Mr Tim warns of heightened uncertainty in the coming months, particularly concerning US trade policy impacts, which could introduce additional economic risks in later quarters, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-25

File photo for reference only. Courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand's thriving tourism industry is facing a new challenge: the surge in illegal hotel operations. Particularly in hotspots like Phuket and Bangkok, the practice of renting out residential properties as short-term lodging is raising concern. The Thai Hotels Association (THA) has highlighted this issue, pointing fingers at both foreign and local investors for circumventing the Hotel Act's regulations, which stipulate a minimum 30-day rental period for such accommodations. Recent incidents, such as the chaos caused by a foreign national in a Bangkok condo, have brought this issue into the spotlight. These short-term, daily rentals often disrupt neighbourhoods, drawing the ire of local residents and creating tensions within communities. Phuket, renowned for its upscale villas, has seen a significant portion of its luxury properties snapped up by Russian investors. Meanwhile, in Bangkok, Chinese buyers frequently scoop up entire blocks of condos, sometimes even whole villages of high-end single houses, transforming them into short-term rental hubs complete with tourist shuttle services. This rampant growth of illegal accommodations is causing alarm among tourism and hospitality professionals. Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the THA, stresses the need for stricter regulations, particularly limiting the number of properties a foreign buyer can acquire. This, he argues, would prevent the monopolisation of condo floors for illegal rental purposes, ensuring fair distribution of ownership opportunities across developments. The burden of illegal activities extends to the tourism sector's reputation. Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, president of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (Atta), voiced concerns over Thailand’s image as a place where money supposedly makes law-breaking possible. Weak law enforcement, he asserts, undermines confidence and safety, discouraging potential visitors in a post-pandemic tourism recovery landscape. Despite governmental crackdowns on organised crime, the anticipated rebound of Chinese tourists is not yet in full swing. Currently, daily arrivals from China are around 10,000, considerably down from the 30,000 daily visits seen in 2019. Illegal work practices among foreigners are also chewing into local job opportunities, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. In response, the government is being urged to consider reducing the visa-free stay duration from 60 to 30 days for citizens of 93 countries. This policy adjustment could help curb the influx of those leveraging lenient visa durations for unauthorised activities. However, the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s aim of attracting 8-9 million Chinese visitors this year might fall short unless these safety and regulatory challenges are adequately addressed. The rise of illegal hotel practices not only threatens the local economy but also tests the resilience of Thailand's tourism sector. With decisive action, the country hopes to protect both its communities and its cherished tourist industry, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-25

Thailand Faces Backlash Over Rise of Illegal Hotel Operations File photo for reference only. Courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand's thriving tourism industry is facing a new challenge: the surge in illegal hotel operations. Particularly in hotspots like Phuket and Bangkok, the practice of renting out residential properties as short-term lodging is raising concern. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352795-thailand-faces-backlash-over-rise-of-illegal-hotel-operations/

DSI Poised to Investigate Thai Senatorial Election Scandal File photo for reference only In a significant development, Thailand's Department of Special Investigation (DSI) is preparing to tackle allegations of electoral malpractice in the recent senatorial elections. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352791-dsi-poised-to-investigate-thai-senatorial-election-scandal/

Thai Workforce Needs Foreign Skills: Academics Dismiss Job Fears ASEAN NOW picture for reference only Recent concerns over Chinese students in Thailand potentially outcompeting Thai graduates have been played down by leading academics. They argue that rather than edging out Thai job seekers, these students help plug the skills gap and enhance economic relations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352787-thai-workforce-needs-foreign-skills-academics-dismiss-job-fears/

Pictture courtesy: Pattaya One News Authorities in Thailand have flagged a worrying trend in the capital's entertainment districts, where vapes containing sedative drugs are being sold to unsuspecting teenagers. Dubbed "zombie cigarettes," these products are reportedly circulating in Bangkok's lively Thonglor nightlife area, posing significant health risks. Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, Anukul Prueksanusak, warned of a new wave of homemade narcotics infiltrating the country's already challenging battle against drug trafficking. The latest concern is the shocking combination of electronic cigarettes infused with Etomidate—an anaesthetic typically reserved for controlled medical environments. When abused recreationally, Etomidate can induce profound drowsiness, slowed breathing, drastic blood pressure drops, nausea, disorientation, and even loss of consciousness, potentially with fatal consequences. Despite the inherent dangers, these zombie cigarettes are being distributed illicitly both on the ground and online, marketed under the guise of relaxation aids, making them especially enticing to youth. Government officials have issued a stern caution: these are not harmless adventures into relaxation. The unpredictable chemical concoctions pose severe health risks, enhanced by the vaping delivery system. Moreover, the systemic effects of Etomidate misuse can meddle with cortisol balance and muscle function long after the initial "high" fades. Parents and guardians are urged to maintain openness with young people, helping them understand the severity of the threat posed by such deceptive products. The unpredictability of the dosages, combined with an unknown array of added substances, could make these vapes lethal. As the government intensifies its scrutiny and crackdowns against the distribution of zombie cigarettes, efforts are expanding to educate the public. Anukul's warning underscores the essential need for community vigilance to stifle the tide of these drug-laden e-cigarettes, with an emphasis on supportive dialogues at home. Action continues from multiple agencies working collaboratively to stem the flow of these substances onto the streets and into the lives of vulnerable teenagers. Public awareness campaigns aim to empower informed choices, countering the allure of these undisclosed chemical mix vape products. In the face of this sinister vaping trend, Thai authorities stress the importance of staying informed and cautious, reinforcing the message that not all that glitters in electronic packaging is safe—or even remotely benign, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-25

File photo for reference only In a significant development, Thailand's Department of Special Investigation (DSI) is preparing to tackle allegations of electoral malpractice in the recent senatorial elections. Reports suggest that up to 138 of the 200 elected senators may be embroiled in high-profile vote-rigging and money laundering schemes, potentially triggering a special lawsuit under the DSI's oversight. The Justice Ministry, led by Thavi Sodsong, has directed the DSI's Committee on Special Lawsuits to meet and potentially launch an investigation into the accusations. Helming the committee is Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai. Known for his close ties with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s de facto Pheu Thai party leader Thaksin Shinawatra, Phumtham is expected to spearhead efforts to scrutinise alleged conspiracies in the electoral process. At the heart of these accusations are suspicions of a coordinated effort allegedly linked to Newin Chidchob, the influential figure behind the Bhumjaithai Party. The allegations include the distribution of vote-casting scripts to ensure predictable outcomes in elections, essentially undermining the integrity of district, provincial, and national-level races last year. This has cast a shadow over the legitimacy of those elected to senatorial positions, most of whom are reportedly connected to Bhumjaithai. Should the DSI proceed, an intensive investigation will unfold over the coming months, re-examining the contests that have prompted official complaints. Some of the defeated candidates, left disgruntled by the Election Commission's dismissal of their grievances, have noticed with anticipation the possibility of renewed scrutiny that this DSI investigation represents. If the investigation culminates in charges, the implicated senators could face immediate suspension and asset seizures pending judicial proceedings. In a worst-case scenario, they might be stripped of their senatorial status, necessitating re-elections and potentially reshaping the political landscape. What's particularly concerning are the claims that many of the senators were unaware of each other before the elections yet convened at the same venues, indicating possible orchestration behind their sudden camaraderie. Meanwhile, any direct dialogue or reconciliation between Bhumjaithai's Newin and Pheu Thai’s de facto boss Thaksin remains absent, even as the ruling coalition navigates these tumultuous waters. A planned meeting among coalition partners is set for tomorrow to possibly address internal tensions. This investigation not only reflects the internal political dynamics of Thailand but also serves as a critical examination of the country's electoral integrity, making it a developing story of high domestic and international interest. As it unfolds, the implications could resonate beyond partisan politics, directly affecting governance and public sentiment across the kingdom, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-02-25

ASEAN NOW picture for reference only Recent concerns over Chinese students in Thailand potentially outcompeting Thai graduates have been played down by leading academics. They argue that rather than edging out Thai job seekers, these students help plug the skills gap and enhance economic relations. The debate sparked after Prof Supachai Pathumnakul from the Ministry of Higher Education shed light on Chinese investment in three Thai private universities. This led to fears about Chinese graduates competing against locals, particularly in companies requiring Chinese language proficiency. The influx of Chinese students is largely due to China's limited university seats, prompting around two to three million students to study abroad annually. Thailand's lower cost of living makes it an attractive option, reflected in the fact that over half of the 53,000 foreign students in Thailand last year were Chinese. Far from viewing them as competition, Prof Dr Buppa Lapawattnaphun regards Chinese students as facilitators, bridging Thai and Chinese labour markets. She notes that while Thai graduates might find it challenging to compete for positions in Chinese companies, they too gain advantageous prospects when returning to work for Thai firms with a Chinese presence. Thailand's workforce, comprised of 38 million people, has only 22%—around 8.5 million workers—with university qualifications. Dr Thanawat Polvichai highlights this shortfall, emphasising the need for skilled foreign workers. Chinese graduates can fill this gap, contributing to sectors requiring expertise. Dr Thanawat urges for a nuanced perspective, distinguishing between unskilled and skilled labour, noting the latter's scarcity remains a pressing issue in Thailand. Saengchai Thirakulvanij from the Thai SMEs Federation sees an even broader role for these students. He suggests positioning Chinese graduates as ambassadors for both education and tourism. Planting a seed of affinity for Thailand could result in increased interest from family and friends in the Chinese students' networks, boosting Thai tourism indirectly. Given Thailand's limited budget for workforce development, Chinese and other foreign graduates from local private universities can potentially fill job market gaps. Understanding this landscape, academics urge that instead of seeing Chinese students as a threat, Thai policymakers should leverage their presence to bolster the educational sector and economic resilience. By embracing international students as partners rather than adversaries, Thailand can enhance its socio-economic fabric, while fostering closer ties with one of its largest neighbouring economies, reported The Nation. -- 2025-02-25

Zombie Vapes Alert: Thai Teens Targeted with Sedative-Infused E-Cigs Pictture courtesy: Pattaya One News Authorities in Thailand have flagged a worrying trend in the capital's entertainment districts, where vapes containing sedative drugs are being sold to unsuspecting teenagers. Dubbed "zombie cigarettes," these products are reportedly circulating in the lively Thonglor nightlife area, posing significant health risks. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352779-zombie-vapes-alert-thai-teens-targeted-with-sedative-infused-e-cigs/

Picture courtesy: Thailand Business News Thailand, a key player in Southeast Asia's automotive industry, has seen a sharp decline in car production, with a notable drop of 24.63% in January compared to the same period last year. The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) revealed today that production numbers plummeted to 107,103 units in January, primarily due to weakening domestic sales and falling exports. As the region's largest automotive production hub, Thailand hosts factories for prominent global manufacturers such as Toyota and Honda. The recent figures are alarming, highlighting an 18-month streak of consecutive production decreases. December saw a 17.37% year-on-year drop, making January's figures particularly concerning. Surapong Paisitpattanapong, the spokesperson for the FTI's automotive division, expressed his surprise at the sharp decline, acknowledging the unexpected severity of the statistics. "The production numbers are really low," he remarked during a news conference. Domestic sales in Thailand fell by 12.26% in January compared to the previous year, with only 48,092 units sold. This dip followed a December decrease of 20.94%. The federation attributes the decline to tighter auto loan conditions, exacerbated by high household debt levels in the country. The export sector also faced challenges, with a significant 28.13% year-on-year reduction, equating to 62,321 units. Notably, this marks the lowest export figure in 33 months, driven by heightened competition from Chinese automotive brands. In contrast, December saw a 15.46% drop, highlighting the escalating issues this year. Export destinations like Australia, the Philippines, and Japan remain crucial markets for Thailand's automotive exports. With such a significant downturn, the FTI is paying close attention to upcoming governmental measures aimed at alleviating issues related to auto loans. Additionally, there is a focus on potential impacts from changes in the United States’ automobile tariff policies. Such changes could shape the industry landscape, as US President Donald Trump has indicated potential levies on automotive imports, with decisions expected by early April. The current situation raises concerns within Thailand's automotive industry, urging stakeholders to adapt and seek solutions to mitigate these downward trends. With ongoing discussions and potential policy changes on the horizon, the industry's future remains closely monitored by both domestic and international observers. The overall impact on the Thai economy is significant, underscoring the need for strategic responses to these evolving challenges, reported Reuters via Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-02-25

Picture courtesy: The Standard Thousands of foreigners are stranded at the Thai-Myanmar border after a crackdown on scam centres operated by criminal gangs. This joint operation by authorities from China, Thailand, and Myanmar targeted illegal online operations, where victims were forced into online scams in unsanitary and often harrowing conditions. Over recent weeks, efforts have increased to dismantle these centres along the border. Such operations are part of a wider criminal network across Southeast Asia. According to the United Nations, these scams have trafficked hundreds of thousands of individuals, exploiting their vulnerabilities. In a recent raid, Thai and Cambodian police freed over 200 individuals from these illegal buildings. However, difficulties remain as thousands continue to be held by Myanmar’s armed groups. Currently, the Karen National Army (KNA) and the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) are holding approximately 7,000 former scam workers. The authorities struggle to transfer them into Thailand due to complexities surrounding legal and diplomatic processes. Another armed group, the Karen Border Guard Force, has detained about 6,500 foreigners following a crackdown on scam centres in Shwe Kokko and the Chinese-managed KK Park. Though they managed to deport 621 Chinese nationals, they have urged the Thai government to coordinate repatriation efforts for others. Aid workers describe these people as being 'in limbo,' facing deteriorating conditions while awaiting rescue or repatriation. The prolonged waiting, they argue, constitutes further victimisation of already exploited individuals. Despite calls for action, Thailand’s deputy prime minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, expressed that Thailand lacks the capacity to accommodate more displaced victims. This month, the country managed to take in 260 individuals, with the majority coming from countries lacking a direct diplomatic presence in Thailand, such as Ethiopia. While Thailand facilitated flights for Chinese nationals, diplomatic coordination remains key in managing the crisis. Neighbouring countries and international partners are urged to step up and collaborate closely. Public interest was piqued by the rescue of Chinese actor Wang Xing, who was lured to Myanmar under false job promises and subsequently trapped in a scam centre. This case highlighted the growing issue, leading Southeast Asian countries to increase pressure on these illegal operations. Efforts are ongoing, including cutting utilities to areas known for such activities. During the crackdown, financial losses suffered by victims in Thailand hit approximately 80 billion Thai Baht, according to police reports. This massive figure underscores the pressing need for international cooperation in addressing these transnational crimes, ensuring victims' safe return, and preventing future trafficking, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-25

Thousands of Foreigners Trapped at Thai-Myanmar Border After Scam Busts Picture courtesy: The Standard Thousands of foreigners are stranded at the Thai-Myanmar border after a crackdown on scam centres operated by criminal gangs. This joint operation by authorities from China, Thailand, and Myanmar targeted illegal online operations, where victims were forced into online scams in unsanitary and often harrowing conditions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352776-thousands-of-foreigners trapped-at-thai-myanmar-border-after-scam-busts/

Thailand's Auto Output Drops 24.63% as Domestic Sales Falter Picture courtesy: Thailand Business News Thailand, a key player in Southeast Asia's automotive industry, has seen a sharp decline in car production, with a notable drop of 24.63% in January compared to the same period last year. The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) revealed today that production numbers plummeted to 107,103 units in January, primarily due to weakening domestic sales and falling exports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352775-thailands-auto-output-drops-2463-as-domestic-sales-falter/

Pai's Tourism Woes: Over 1,600 Foreigners Arrested in a Year Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In 2022, Pai district in Mae Hong Son saw the arrest of over 1,600 foreigners mostly for traffic and immigration violations. Among those detained, 13 were Israeli visitors for immigration infractions, according to local police reports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352753-pais-tourism-woes-over-1600-foreigners-arrested-in-a-year/x

Bangkok Police Facebook Page Hacked with Explicit Content Picture courtesy of The Daily News In an unexpected twist, the Bangkok Noi Metropolitan Police Station's Facebook page became the backdrop for a cybersecurity scandal this morning, showcasing explicit pornographic content instead of its usual updates. Followers were taken by surprise when the page, boasting over 2,000 followers, displayed around 18 indecent images and videos, marking a sharp deviation from its routine posts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352742-bangkok-polic

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 25 February 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1352746-thailand-live-tuesday-25-february-2025/

ASEAN NOW picture for reference only Thailand’s dream of welcoming nine million Chinese tourists this year is in serious trouble! The shocking kidnapping of Chinese actor Wang Xing—who was trafficked through Thailand to Myanmar—has sent shockwaves through the travel industry. Fear is spreading fast! Thousands of Chinese tourists are cancelling flights, ditching Thailand for safer destinations like Japan and Singapore. In January alone, flight cancellations to Thailand skyrocketed 94%, leaving airlines scrambling. Japan is the big winner! Chinese visitors flocked to Japan’s snowy slopes and hot springs, making it the top choice for Lunar New Year. The numbers don’t lie—980,000 Chinese tourists landed in Japan in January, doubling last year’s figures. Meanwhile, Thailand managed just 711,000 visitors in the same period. Thai authorities are in damage control mode! They’ve cracked down on scam gangs and cybercrime rings, teaming up with Myanmar to clean up their act. But experts say the damage is done—bad press is overshadowing Thailand’s safety efforts. The tourism sector is critical to Thailand’s economy, pumping in THB 2 trillion ($55 billion) a year. But if safety fears persist, Chinese arrivals could plunge to just 7.5 million, hitting the economy hard. Is there hope? Maybe. Flight bookings remain down for March but show signs of recovery in April and May. To win back tourists, Thailand must go beyond Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai—showcasing hidden gems to lure visitors back. As tourism expert Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun warns, Thailand must act fast or risk losing its tourism crown for good! As reported by Bangkok Post -- 2025-02-25

Chinese Tourists Ditch Thailand! - Kidnap scandal sparks mass flight cancellations. ASEAN NOW picture for reference only Thailand's aspiration to lure nine million Chinese tourists this year faces a significant hurdle. Recent events, particularly the kidnapping of Chinese actor Wang Xing, have led to a surge in concerns about safety among potential Chinese visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352744-chinese-tourists-ditch-thailand-kidnap-scandal-sparks-mass-flight-cancellations/

New Coronavirus Raises Concerns, But No Immediate Threat Dr. Opas. File photo In recent days, reports have emerged from China regarding a novel virus within the coronavirus family, dubbed HKU5-CoV-2, found by researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Though capable of infiltrating human cells similar to the infamous SARS-CoV-2, no human cases have been recorded to date, according to Dr Opas Karnkawinpong, Thailand's permanent secretary of the Ministry of Public Health. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352718-new-coronavirus-raises-concerns-but-no-immediate-threat/

Dr. Opas. File photo In recent days, reports have emerged from China regarding a novel virus within the coronavirus family, dubbed HKU5-CoV-2, found by researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Though capable of infiltrating human cells similar to the infamous SARS-CoV-2, no human cases have been recorded to date, according to Dr Opas Karnkawinpong, Thailand's permanent secretary of the Ministry of Public Health. The discovery, occurring within the lab rather than the wild, might alarm many who remember the initial reports of COVID-19 from Wuhan in late 2019. However, Dr Opas assures the public that the virus is currently not a cause for concern. HKU5-CoV-2 is categorised as part of the Merbecovirus subgenus, making it a relative, yet distinct, from the currently circulating strains such as the Omicron variant prevalent in Thailand. Dr Opas emphasized that Thailand is part of a robust international network monitoring infectious diseases. This network keeps a close watch on any emerging virus strains, ensuring readiness to act against potential threats. Despite the discovery, the protocol remains unchanged: maintain personal hygiene by frequent handwashing with soap, wearing masks if symptomatic, and avoiding crowded spaces. While this newly identified virus raises the spectre of coronaviruses' notorious ability to mutate, there's no evidence indicating a present risk to humans. Dr Opas explains that viruses, particularly coronaviruses, are studied for potential mutations that might necessitate vaccine development. Even so, the transfer of viruses from bats to humans is considered a low to moderate risk, largely because such viruses exist in minimal quantities within their natural bat hosts. Dr Opas also underlines the importance of the continued exploration of viral strains, notably in bats, to preempt possible outbreaks. He assures citizens that the likelihood of a direct bat-to-human infection is slender due to limited human-bat interaction. Typically, intermediaries are needed for such transmissions, diminishing the immediate risk. As researchers globally continue to study and monitor developments, precaution remains the best strategy. The Ministry's message is clear: stay informed, stay cautious, but don't panic. With Thailand's vigilant health infrastructure, the public remains well-protected against significant health threats, including any potential new coronavirus outbreaks, reporded Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-24

American Woman Arrested with 4kg of Ice at Phuket Airport Bound for Singapore Picture courtesy: Facebook Khaosod Authorities at Phuket International Airport apprehended an American woman attempting to smuggle 4 kilograms of the drug “ice” (methamphetamine) en route to South Korea via Singapore. She is now facing legal action. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352714-american-woman-arrested-with-4kg-of-ice-at-phuket-airport-bound-for-singapore/

Picture courtesy: Facebook Khaosod Authorities at Phuket International Airport apprehended an American woman attempting to smuggle 4 kilograms of the drug “ice” (methamphetamine) en route to South Korea via Singapore. She is now facing legal action. On the 23rd of February, police received a report from a customs official about an overweight baggage issue at the international terminal of Phuket Airport. This prompted an investigation, revealing a potential drug smuggling operation on Scoot Airlines flight TR653, heading first to Singapore before reaching its final destination in South Korea. At approximately 8:30 p.m., authorities identified a suspicious passenger named Melba. She was flagged for potential drug smuggling as she checked in her luggage. Upon inspection, her suitcase contained clothing, along with four sets of bed sheets that appeared unusually heavy. A detailed search of the bed sheets uncovered methamphetamine concealed inside brown-taped, carbon paper-wrapped, clear plastic packages weighing a total of 4,300 grams. The authorities promptly charged her with attempting to export illicit narcotics without permission and possessing methamphetamine illegally. She has been handed over to the police for further legal proceedings, reported Khaosod. -- 2025-02-24

Public Indecency in Park: Police Halt 'Gathering' of 6 Men Photo via Facebook/ อีซ้อขยี้ข่าว : อีซ้อ In a rather unexpected turn of events, police in Bangkok's Bang Khen district disrupted an unusual gathering last week, catching six men in a public park indulging in a group activity that was anything but conventional. The occurrence took place at a well-known local park on Thursday, 20th February, unfolding into an intriguing scenario that quickly caught public attention. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352711-public-indecency-in-park-police-halt-gathering-of-6-men/