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Immigration Police Arrest 5 Leaders of Major Human Trafficking Rings Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thailand's Immigration Bureau has launched an aggressive operation to crack down on human smuggling networks linked to call center scams. Recently, they have arrested the ringleaders of five major criminal networks. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339701-immigration-police-arrest-5-leaders-of-major-human-trafficking-rings/

Thailand's Immigration Bureau has launched an aggressive operation to crack down on human smuggling networks linked to call center scams. Recently, they have arrested the ringleaders of five major criminal networks. Following government policy to tackle crimes, including online scams and cross-border offenses, the Immigration Bureau has been working hard to apprehend foreigners conducting illegal business in Thailand. They are also targeting locals and foreigners involved in activities that threaten public safety and tarnish the country's image. Authorities in China have been coordinating with Myanmar and Laos to suppress call center scams and online fraud originating in regions like Kokang and the Golden Triangle in Laos. As a result, Chinese scam operations have shifted and used Thailand as a transit point to cross into other countries. From October 1st, 2023, to September 30th, 2024, the crackdown resulted in 78 cases, 89 arrests, and the seizure of 69 vehicles. They have caught 287 illegal Chinese migrants and identified 20 additional individuals involved in these crimes through further investigation. The investigation highlighted that these crimes operate like a cross-border criminal organization, leading to charges of participating in such an organization against some of the arrested. This involves asset seizures under anti-money laundering laws, uncovering transactions exceeding 600 million baht in various bank accounts. The operation focuses on five major networks with established structures, clearly assigning areas and roles across Thailand. The crackdown from September 21st to 30th, 2023, successfully arrested all major figures sought in this round, including: 1. Veerapol Network - operating along the Chiang Saen border, organizing transport and border crossing for illegal immigrants. 2. Kan Network - facilitating crossings near Phop Phra and Mae Sot while also gathering firearms. 3. Vongsakorn Network- coordinating crossings between Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar and linked to several international brokers. 4. Toggihong Network - connecting Thailand to Malaysia's border and liaising with Cambodian contacts. 5. T. Network - managing cross-border movements in the Ubon Ratchathani and Sa Kaeo regions. This operation has significantly disrupted illegal entry networks, especially those moving Chinese nationals tied to call center scams. The Immigration Bureau continues its efforts to combat these crimes, ensuring Thailand is not used as a base for illegal activities, reported Siam Rath. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-10-03

Vehicle Inspector Reassigned Amid Deadly School Bus Fire Probe Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On October 2, 2024, Jirut Wisaljitr, Director-General of the Department of Land Transport, announced an investigation following a tragic school bus fire. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339700-vehicle-inspector-removed-amid-deadly-school-bus-fire-probe/

On October 2, 2024, Jirut Wisaljitr, Director-General of the Department of Land Transport, announced an investigation following a tragic school bus fire. The bus, carrying students from Wat Khao Phrayasangkaram School in Uthai Thani for a field trip, caught fire near the Anusorn Monument interchange in Pathum Thani, resulting in multiple injuries and fatalities. Suriya Juangroongruangkit, Minister of Transport, and Surapong Piyachote, Deputy Minister of Transport, ordered an immediate investigation to ensure stricter safety measures and prevent similar incidents. In response, the Department of Land Transport has established a fact-finding committee. Two senior officials from the Sing Buri Provincial Transport Office, including the head of vehicle inspection, were reassigned to assist in the investigation. If any wrongdoing is discovered, the Department has pledged to enforce the highest level of disciplinary action. This swift response aims to uphold safety standards and prevent future accidents. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-10-03

Foul-Smelling Trail of Feces Found in Thai Parliament Picture courtesy: Thai Rath On October 2, 2024, an alarming incident occurred inside Thailand's Parliament building, leaving many shocked and disgusted. A long trail of feces was discovered in the first-floor hallway of the MPs' wing, stretching from the elevator near the souvenir shop to the restroom entrance by the cafeteria. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339696-foul-smelling-trail-of-feces-found-in-thai-parliament/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath On October 2, 2024, an alarming incident occurred inside Thailand's Parliament building, leaving many shocked and disgusted. A long trail of feces was discovered in the first-floor hallway of the MPs' wing, stretching from the elevator near the souvenir shop to the restroom entrance by the cafeteria. The mess created an unsightly scene and emitted a foul odor that spread throughout the area, affecting everyone nearby. The situation was first noticed in the early morning, as reporters and staff arrived at the building. Housekeeping staff were quickly called to the scene, where they were seen sweating profusely as they worked to clean up the offensive trail. Despite their efforts, the strong odor lingered, leaving many to wonder about the source of the mess. It remains unclear who is responsible for the incident, as no witnesses have come forward with information. The bizarre occurrence has raised concerns about security and sanitation within the Parliament complex, with many calling for a thorough investigation. This unexpected and unpleasant event has certainly left a lasting impression on all who were present that day, reported Thai Rath. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-10-03

Thai Airways Announces New Share Issuance of 42 Billion Baht FILE photo courtesy: Wikimedia Thai Airways International Plc (THAI) is gearing up to issue new shares worth at least 42 billion baht by December as a crucial step towards finalising its debt restructuring under court supervision and resuming its listing on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339689-thai-airways-announces-new-share-issuance-of-42-billion-baht/

Thai Airways International Plc (THAI) is gearing up to issue new shares worth at least 42 billion baht by December as a crucial step towards finalising its debt restructuring under court supervision and resuming its listing on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET). The airline will release 6.81 billion new shares to creditors as part of a debt-to-equity swap, according to a filing submitted to both the SET and the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 1. Each share is priced at 2.5452 baht, totalling 17.3 billion baht. Additionally, 9.82 billion new shares will be offered to current shareholders, employees, and select investors through a private placement. Though the filing co-omitted the specific pricing, it confirmed that the cost would not fall below 2.5452 baht per share. The issuance aims for completion by year-end. Further, 14.9 billion new shares are reserved for a compulsory debt-to-equity exchange with major creditors including the Ministry of Finance, which will convert about 12.8 billion baht of its debt into equity, alongside other creditors. THAI's objective is to exit the court-monitored restructuring by 2025, five years after entering bankruptcy protection following sustained losses since 2013, worsened by the Covid-19 pandemic. Recent improved earnings and cash flow, driven by a travel boom, have allowed THAI to order new Boeing and Airbus jets. The airline plans to expand its fleet to 116 aircraft by 2027, exceeding its pre-pandemic size. Chai Eamsiri, the airline's CEO, announced that 79 jets should be operational by late 2024, reported Bangkok Post. Piyasvasti Amranand, chairing the rehabilitation oversight committee, stated, "The debt-to-equity swap and new share issuance will aid in stabilising Thai Airways’ financial standing." Aiming for shareholders' equity stability, the company plans to resume trading by 2025 following financial recovery. FILE photo courtesy: Wikimedia -- 2024-10-03

Thailand Embarks on Mega 2.68 Trillion Baht Transport Overhaul FILE photo: National News Bureau of Thailand Thailand's Ministry of Transport has unveiled an ambitious 2.68 trillion baht initiative aimed at radically transforming the nation's transportation landscape. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339686-thailand-embarks-on-mega-268-trillion-baht-transport-overhaul/

Thailand's Ministry of Transport has unveiled an ambitious 2.68 trillion baht initiative aimed at radically transforming the nation's transportation landscape. The expansive project prioritises enhancing rail networks, upgrading key airports, and encouraging environmentally-friendly logistics practices, all with the goal of significantly reducing road congestion and cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 45.6 million tons by the year 2030. This falls in line with Thailand's obligations under the Paris Agreement, as outlined in their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Action Plan for 2021–2030. Panya Chupanich, Director of the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning, highlighted the ministry's focus on public transport electrification. Plans are in place to introduce 3,100 electric buses on Bangkok streets by year's end, with an additional 1,520 to follow by 2025. Further, the ministry is set to extend Bangkok's electric train network to 554 kilometers by September 2025. This expansion will include a simplified ticketing system with a flat fare of 20 baht per ride, making travel more affordable and seamless for commuters. Major rail projects form the backbone of this initiative, including the expansion of double-track railways and the development of high-speed train links. Particularly noteworthy are the Bangkok–Nakhon Ratchasima high-speed rail and the three-airport high-speed rail project, which will provide streamlined connections between Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports, reported NNT. Additionally, plans to introduce light rail transit systems will be implemented in regional hubs like Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, and Phuket, improving urban transit in these growing areas. The logistics network will benefit from significant improvements, with 4,044 kilometers of double-track rail lines already completed and an additional 1,479 kilometers slated for construction by 2029. FILE photo: National News Bureau of Thailand -- 2024-10-03

Late-Night Street Racers Disrupt Pattaya Residents By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya residents are calling for action from police after street racers caused late-night disturbances on Jomtien Second Road. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339684-late-night-street-racers-disrupt-pattaya-residents/

Pattaya residents are calling for action from police after street racers caused late-night disturbances on Jomtien Second Road. At 3:00 AM on October 2nd, The Pattaya News reporters received complaints from local residents about a group of street racers causing a disturbance by racing motorcycles on a public road. The racing was so disruptive that people living nearby were unable to sleep. The incident occurred on Jomtien Second Road. Upon receiving the complaints, the Pattaya News reporters went to investigate the area around Sukhumvit-Chaiyapruek Road heading toward Jomtien Second Road. They found over ten motorcycles driven by Thai teenagers, who were engaging in reckless, high-speed racing with loud modified exhausts. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-10-03

Pattaya Officials Inspect Walking Street Venues for Fire Safety Ahead of Tourist Season By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya officials inspected Walking Street venues yesterday to check fire safety equipment in preparation for the busy tourist season. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339683-pattaya-officials-inspect-walking-street-venues-for-fire-safety-ahead-of-tourist-season/

Pattaya officials inspected Walking Street venues yesterday to check fire safety equipment in preparation for the busy tourist season. The inspection took place around 8:00 PM on October 1st, led by Mr. Weekit Manarotkit, Banglamung District Chief, and Mr. Poramase Ngampichet, Mayor of Pattaya. Officials inspected several entertainment venues on Walking Street in South Pattaya, with a goal to improve safety standards and prevent potential fire hazards. Officials focused on checking emergency exits and fire equipment installed by the venue operators. The inspection found that the venues had properly installed fire extinguishers and clearly marked emergency exit signs for customers. Additionally, officials advised venue managers to regularly check fire extinguishers and alarms to make sure that they are functional and to train their staff on how to assist tourists in case of a fire emergency. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-10-03

Srettha Delighted by Vibrant Shopping Scene at Market in Chiang Mai Picture courtesy: Daily News Former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin visited Kad Ruamchok in Chiang Mai on October 2, 2024, expressing his delight at the bustling shopping atmosphere. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339682-srettha-delighted-by-vibrant-shopping-scene-at-market-in-chiang-mai/

Former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin visited Kad Ruamchok in Chiang Mai on October 2, 2024, expressing his delight at the bustling shopping atmosphere. He attributed this surge in consumer activity to the government's 10,000-baht economic stimulus package, launched by Prime Minister Paetongtarn, which targets vulnerable groups and is beginning to positively impact local spending. In a social media post following his visit, Srettha shared his optimism for the future, predicting further economic growth by the end of the year. He highlighted Chiang Mai’s rich cultural heritage, diverse culinary offerings, and popular tourist destinations as key factors that will drive the province’s recovery. The combination of government efforts and private sector involvement in stimulating the economy is expected to enhance the region’s potential. Srettha also pointed out the strategic timing of the stimulus package, suggesting that it will encourage increased spending during the high tourism season, further boosting the local economy, reported Daily News. With more activities and initiatives planned, he believes that Chiang Mai will continue to thrive, both as a tourist hotspot and an example of effective economic recovery. He extended his support for ongoing efforts to revitalize the country’s economic landscape. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-10-03

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 3 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1339672-thailand-live-thursday-3-october-2024/

UPDATE Rescue Team Claims Highly Unusual CNG Tank Placement in Tragic Bus Fire A popular social media page has shared images from a rescue team revealing an unusually placed CNG tank in the bus involved in a devastating fire that claimed the lives of 23 students. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1339544-school-bus-fire-claims-multiple-lives-and-injures-young-students-in-rangsit/?do=findComment&comment=19276616

Thailand’s Bold Move: Decriminalising Sex Work Sparks National Debate File photo for reference only Thailand's Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, is causing a stir with a proposal to develop an entertainment complex that would bring underground businesses, including sex work, into the formal economy. This initiative aims to boost government revenue through taxation, funding crucial welfare programmes in education, public health, and infrastructure. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339668-thailand’s-bold-move-decriminalising-sex-work-sparks-national-debate/

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has expressed disagreement with suspending educational field trips for students, saying that the measure does not solve the basic problem. Field trips don’t hurt students, poorly-maintained transport does : PM Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339663-field-trips-don’t-hurt-students-poorly-maintained-transport-does-pm/

UPDATE: Paetongtarn’s anti-graft lawsuit over 30% stake rocks government by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation In a fresh scandal targeting Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, political firebrand Ruangkrai Leekitwattana has filed a complaint with the Election Commission (EC), accusing her of violating anti-graft laws by holding a significant company stake post-election. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339605-thai-pm-faces-legal-scrutiny-over-delayed-divestment-of-golf-club-shares/?do=findComment&comment=19275469

Paetongtarn’s anti-graft lawsuit over 30% stake rocks government by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation In a fresh scandal targeting Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, political firebrand Ruangkrai Leekitwattana has filed a complaint with the Election Commission (EC), accusing her of violating anti-graft laws by holding a significant company stake post-election. Ruangkrai claimed that Paetongtarn retained a 30% stake in Alpine Golf and Sports Club after being appointed PM in August. According to Ruangkrai, the premier transferred the shares to her mother, Khunying Pojaman Damapong, on September 3 but only registered the transfer a day later. He argues this is a direct breach of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) Act, which prohibits Cabinet members from holding more than 5% of shares in any company. Despite suggestions of a 15-day grace period, Ruangkrai was adamant. “The law is clear. No allowances are made for a transitional period.” The complaint also digs deeper, linking Paetongtarn’s involvement with Alpine Golf and Sports Club to an earlier controversy. The Supreme Administrative Court previously ruled that the temple land on which the club is built was unlawfully sold to the company. This, according to Ruangkrai, adds to the ethical concerns surrounding the premier’s conduct. Ruangkrai, a Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP) member, has become known for his high-profile petitions and legal manoeuvres. While critics see his actions as part of a proxy war between PPRP leader Prawit Wongsuwan and the ruling Pheu Thai Party, the accusations have sparked widespread political debate. Adding fuel to the fire, Ruangkrai had earlier filed another complaint, claiming the 38 year old Thai premier violated the Constitution by making a mini heart gesture while wearing her government uniform, reported The Nation. ORIGINAL STORY: Activist questions Paetongtarn’s resignation from family firms Political activist Ruangkrai Leekitwattana has pressed the Election Commission (EC) to investigate whether Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra properly resigned from executive positions in 20 family-owned companies before her election. Ruangkrai questioned if Paetongtarn adhered to the Department of Business Development’s procedures when stepping down from roles in firms associated with her family. Failure to resign appropriately would violate Section 187 of the constitution, which prohibits ministers from holding over 5% of shares in a commercial firm or being employed by a private company. Ruangkrai also examined Deputy Interior Minister Sabida Thaised’s resignation from her executive post and shareholdings in a private firm following her appointment. He noted that Sabida, daughter of former Deputy Interior Minister Chada Thaised, appeared to have complied with the stipulated procedures, raising further questions about Paetongtarn’s case. Ruangkrai emphasised he was merely exercising his rights under Sections 41 and 50 of the constitution and respected the decisions made by independent public agencies. Last month, Ruangkrai petitioned the poll agency to investigate the prime minister’s status, questioning the date of the 38 year old PM’s resignation from the family companies. Paetongtarn was elected prime minister by the House of Representatives on August 16, succeeding Srettha Thavisin, who was dismissed from office by the Constitutional Court. In his petition, Ruangkrai asked the EC whether Paetongtarn had resigned from all executive roles in the family’s companies by August 15, and why those resignations were registered on August 19, three days post-election. Ruangkrai claimed Paetongtarn authorised a close aide to handle the resignation documents on August 15, just a day after the Constitutional Court dismissed Srettha from office. The documents were submitted to the Department of Business Development on August 19, reported Bangkok Post. “Paetongtarn gave her aide the authority to do this just one day after the Constitutional Court ruled to dismiss Srettha from office.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-02

Thai students brutally abused by soldiers in behaviour modification camp by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 Parents and guardians of students in Samut Prakan province near Bangkok are seeking justice after soldiers brutally abused students during a behaviour modification camp on military premises in Chon Buri province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339618-thai-students-brutally-abused-by-soldiers-in-behaviour-modification-camp/

Parents and guardians of students in Samut Prakan province near Bangkok are seeking justice after soldiers brutally abused students during a behaviour modification camp on military premises in Chon Buri province. Bangpleeratbamrung School in Samut Prakan sent 130 students to the behaviour modification camp after they violated school rules by smoking, fighting, engaging in altercations over romantic matters, arriving late to school, and more. The camp, operated by soldiers at Phra Maha Jetsadaratchao Camp in Sattahip district, Chon Buri, ran for three days and two nights, from 25 to 27 September, to correct the students’ negative behaviour. The brutal treatment at the camp came to light after the students returned home and shared their experiences with their parents and guardians. They reported that the soldiers at the camp kicked and slapped them. Some were forced to eat grass and rotten fruit, while others were given humiliating haircuts, which resulted in head injuries. One mother told Channel 7 that her 17 year old son was kicked in the back, leaving him struggling to breathe and causing him to have a seizure. Instead of helping the boy, the soldiers shouted vulgar insults at him. Another father disclosed that his 18 year old son was slapped for looking at the soldiers, while another guardian shared that his nephew was distressed after being kicked for dropping his bag. The nephew also complained that his family no longer loved him for allowing him to be tortured at the camp. Parents dissatisfied Students who attended the camp revealed to the media that one of their peers tried to defend others by asking the soldiers why they were being abused. This student did not receive an answer and was instead slapped in the face for questioning them. Families brought the matter to the school but the school denied the accusations, claiming the students were lying. The deputy headteacher even dared the families to sue the school if they had evidence and threatened to counter-sue, causing some families to drop their complaints. However, another group of guardians persisted and took legal action against the school and the military trainers. Their complaints led to an urgent meeting on September 30, attended by the head of the military trainers, teachers, the victims, and their guardians. The lead military trainer apologised to the families and promised to investigate the incident. The teachers and school directors also apologised to the families. The school director promised that no more students would be sent to military or behaviour modification camps and that alternative activities within the school would be arranged to avoid such violence. Channel 7 reported that many of the victims’ families were dissatisfied with the meeting’s outcome, as their children had suffered both physical and mental injuries. They called for a quicker investigation and greater accountability from the school. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 7 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-10-02

Inferno bus in use for 54 years by TNR Staff Scenes from the bus inferno on Vibhavadi Rangsit road. Photos: Amarin TV THE BUS that caught fire on Vibhavadi Rangsit road leading to the tragic death of 23 mainly kindergarten and primary schoolchildren and teachers had been in use for 54 years with the engine switched from Isuzu to Benz at a later date, Amarin TV said this morning (Oct. 2). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1339617-inferno-bus-in-use-for-54-years/