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Jealousy-fuelled attack suspect caught after seven years on the run by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Dailynews Police apprehended a 55 year old man for a violent jealousy-fuelled attack in which he shot his former father-in-law and the mother of his ex-wife’s former boyfriend. After evading capture for seven years, he was found bedridden due to a stroke. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343855-jealousy-fuelled-attack-suspect-caught-after-seven-years-on-the-run/

Police apprehended a 55 year old man for a violent jealousy-fuelled attack in which he shot his former father-in-law and the mother of his ex-wife’s former boyfriend. After evading capture for seven years, he was found bedridden due to a stroke. Suwat was arrested yesterday, November 16 in a hut within a sugarcane field in Udon Thani province. The arrest was carried out by the Crime Suppression Division officers in collaboration with the Surin Provincial Police. The arrest warrant, issued by the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Court on November 10, 2017, charged him with premeditated murder and possession of firearms and ammunition without a permit. The original incident occurred on November 9, 2017, when Suwat used a shotgun to attack 69 year old Virat, his former father-in-law, who was injured and later succumbed to his injuries. Suwat also attempted to shoot his ex-wife and their child, but the bullets missed, hitting a bedroom door instead. In a continued spree, he shot and killed 65 year old Rampueng, who was the mother of his ex-wife’s former boyfriend. Investigations revealed that Suwat had previously threatened his ex-wife with violence in fits of anger. It was known that Rampueng’s son had been in a relationship with Suwat’s ex-wife during their youth, which ended before Suwat’s relationship with her began. Suwat’s fears that his ex-wife might rekindle her relationship with her former boyfriend after their separation seemed to have fuelled his violent actions. After the shootings, police gathered evidence and secured a warrant for Suwat’s arrest. He managed to evade capture until recently when police discovered he had been working in Udon Thani. His capture was inevitable as officers finally tracked him down. During questioning, Suwat confessed to his crimes. In addition to the charges from the 2017 incident, he also faced another arrest warrant for attempted murder, issued by the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Court in the same year. Police transferred him to the Pak Thong Chai Police Station for further legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod. Reports from the arrest indicated that Suwat was bedridden, and unable to care for himself due to a recent stroke. He had been discharged from the hospital earlier this month for treatment related to a brain haemorrhage. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Dailynews Full story: [source name + source link] -- 2024-11-18

Pheu Thai Eyes Winning Over 200 House Seats in Next Election Picture courtesy: Royal Thai Government Key figures in the ruling Pheu Thai Party have expressed confidence in surpassing the 200-seat mark in the upcoming general election, standing firmly behind the optimistic projection made by their prominent leader and former prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343854-pheu-thai-eyes-winning-over-200-house-seats-in-next-election/

Picture courtesy: Royal Thai Government Key figures in the ruling Pheu Thai Party have expressed confidence in surpassing the 200-seat mark in the upcoming general election, standing firmly behind the optimistic projection made by their prominent leader and former prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra. Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, along with chief coalition whip Visuth Chainaroon, echoed Thaksin's forecast. They emphasised that it wasn't mere rhetoric when Thaksin predicted a landslide victory while campaigning in Udon Thani for a local election this week. The previous general election saw Pheu Thai come second to the Move Forward Party; however, constitutional technicalities allowed Pheu Thai to emerge victorious in forming a coalition government. Speaking to voters, Thaksin confidently assured that the current government's performance sets a strong foundation for a sweeping win in the next election. Phumtham underlined that Thaksin's prediction wasn't baseless but was grounded in extensive political experience and a strategic understanding of the political landscape. He noted that the party's success hinges on fulfilling pre-election promises. "If Pheu Thai delivers on its commitments, securing over 200 MP seats is inevitable," Phumtham stated. Visuth highlighted the tangible accomplishments of the Pheu Thai-led administration as the catalyst for potential electoral success. These include forthcoming financial assistance measures of 10,000 baht for additional groups following support to 14.5 million welfare and disabled recipients, as well as robust efforts against drug trafficking. “These achievements strengthen our position to win more than 200 seats in the House,” Visuth remarked, while also cautioning against unwarranted legal actions targeting the party, suggesting that baseless petitions could face counter-litigation. With these developments, Pheu Thai is positioning itself as a formidable contender in the next electoral contest, aiming to leverage governance successes into electoral gains, reported Tha Nation. -- 2024-11-18

Changi Airport Inspires Suvarnabhumi's Ambitious Plans Changi Airport. File: Wikipedia Airports of Thailand (AoT) has outlined ambitious plans to catapult Thai airports into the ranks of the world's top 20 within five years, using Singapore's acclaimed Changi Airport as a blueprint for success. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343852-changi-airport-inspires-suvarnabhumis-ambitious-plans/

Changi Airport. File: Wikipedia Airports of Thailand (AoT) has outlined ambitious plans to catapult Thai airports into the ranks of the world's top 20 within five years, using Singapore's acclaimed Changi Airport as a blueprint for success. In a bid to enhance the global standing of Suvarnabhumi Airport, the Transport Ministry, led by Permanent Secretary Chayatan Phromsorn, has tasked AoT with this transformative mission. Mr Chayatan's recent visit to Changi Airport spurred discussions with Yam Kum Weng, CEO of Changi Airport Group, exploring potential collaborative ventures. Renowned for its exceptional efficiency and premium facilities, Changi has become the template for overhauling Thailand's airports, with a focus on Suvarnabhumi. AoT President Kerati Kijmanawat shared that development strategies are in progress to establish Thailand as a pivotal aviation hub. Plans include boosting the capacity of Bangkok's Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi airports to accommodate 200 million passengers annually. Suvarnabhumi itself is poised for a significant expansion on its east side, set to enhance capacity by 15 million passengers yearly. Further, the upcoming South Terminal, embracing a "mega terminal" concept, aims to handle an additional 70 million passengers each year. Meanwhile, Don Mueang Airport is undergoing its third development phase to facilitate 50 million passengers per annum. To modernise travel experiences, several technological advancements, including self-check-in kiosks and automatic baggage drops, are being introduced. A sprawling shopping mall modelled after Jewel Changi Airport is planned, with construction anticipated to commence next year. In alignment with current sustainability trends, AoT, in cooperation with Changi Airport, is also strategising on "green airport" initiatives, including the installation of solar panels and the production of sustainable aviation fuel. Through these comprehensive efforts, AoT aims to position Thai airports as premier destinations in the global aviation landscape, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-18

Foreigner Injured in Nan Big Bike Collision in Nan, Thailand Picture courtesy: Talk News Online On 17 November 2024, at approximately 11:00 AM, Pol. Lt. Thirawat Wangsaeng of Phupieng Police Station, Nan Province, received a report from the Nan Police 191 emergency centre about a road accident. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343847-foreigner-injured-in-nan-big-bike-collision-in-nan-thailand/

Picture courtesy: Talk News Online On 17 November 2024, at approximately 11:00 AM, Pol. Lt. Thirawat Wangsaeng of Phupieng Police Station, Nan Province, received a report from the Nan Police 191 emergency centre about a road accident. A foreigner riding a big bike had collided with a car on the Nan-Santisuk road near kilometre marker 20, in Muang Chang subdistrict, Phupieng district. Pol. Lt. Thirawat informed Pol. Col. Chanyut Chaimano, Phupieng Police Superintendent, and went to the scene to investigate. Authorities found a silver Mitsubishi pickup truck, registration number BON 5744 Nan, driven by Mrs. Kaseni (surname withheld), 46, a resident of Bo Kluea district, Nan Province. The motorcycle involved was a black big bike, registration 3 KOR KOR 6901 Chiang Mai. The rider, Mr. David Zotico Bernaldez Mangas, 40, and his passenger, Mrs. Lucie Isabelle Marie, 37, both residents of Chiang Mai, sustained injuries in the crash. Emergency responders from Muang Chang Subdistrict Administration Organisation provided first aid at the scene before transporting the injured to Nan Hospital for further treatment. Police documented the scene and are conducting further investigations to determine the cause of the accident, reported Naew Na. -- 2024-11-18 Picture courtesy: Talk News Online

Russian Man and Israeli Woman Arrested on Pha Ngan Island for Allegedly Hiring Illegal Workers By Goongnang Suksawat Surat Thani - A Russian man and an Israeli woman were arrested at a café on the Pha Ngan Island in Surat Thani after they allegedly hired illegal Myanmar workers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343839-russian-man-and-israeli-woman-arrested-on-pha-ngan-island-for-allegedly-hiring-illegal-work/

Surat Thani - A Russian man and an Israeli woman were arrested at a café on the Pha Ngan Island in Surat Thani after they allegedly hired illegal Myanmar workers. The Surat Thani Immigration told the Phuket Express that earlier this week they arrested MS. YAARA, 35, an Israeli national and MR. BORIS, 46, a Russian national at a café on the Pha Ngan Island. Officers also arrested six illegal Myanmar workers who were found working at the café. They were taken to the Koh Pha Ngan Police Station. By Goongnang Suksawat Source: THE PHUKET EXPRESS -- 2024-11-18

Escaped Monkeys Cause Mayhem at Thai Police Station in Lop Buri Picture courtesy: TNA-MCOT In a bizarre turn of events, approximately 200 monkeys broke free from their enclosure at the Pho Khao Ton Monkey Nursery, located in Lop Buri's Muang district, Thailand, and made their way to the nearby Tha Hin police station. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343835-escaped-monkeys-cause-mayhem-at-thai-police-station-in-lop-buri/

Picture courtesy: TNA-MCOT In a bizarre turn of events, approximately 200 monkeys broke free from their enclosure at the Pho Khao Ton Monkey Nursery, located in Lop Buri's Muang district, Thailand, and made their way to the nearby Tha Hin police station. The curious incident unfolded on Saturday evening, causing significant commotion and surprising both residents and law enforcement officers. The nursery, which houses about 300 monkeys captured from Lop Buri's bustling streets, faced an unforeseen challenge when the cage structure failed to contain its lively inhabitants. According to police reports, the monkeys managed to rock the cage with such intensity that it ultimately gave way, paving the path for their great escape. Once free, the monkeys roamed into public areas, including local homes and the police station itself. Law enforcement officers were caught off guard as the cheeky creatures climbed into the building, setting off a light-hearted yet urgent operation to return them to their rightful home. In response to the escape, local authorities promptly repaired the broken cage, significantly bolstering its strength to prevent any future breakouts. By Sunday, about 40 of the escapees had voluntarily returned to the enclosure, lured back by the promise of food. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) has since dispatched teams to track and recapture the remaining monkeys, ensuring their safe return to the nursery. The department emphasised that while the situation created a temporary stir, efforts are fully underway to restore order at the facility. This startling episode in Lop Buri serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the importance of maintaining secure habitats for wildlife in urban areas, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-18

UPDATE Foreign Husband of Suspect in Prosecutor’s Mother Murder Case Detained & Questioned Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Rayong investigators have detained and questioned the foreign husband of a woman accused in the murder and robbery of the mother-in-law of a prosecutor. The arrest occurred after officers raided the suspect’s home in Sriracha, Chonburi Province, seeking additional evidence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343759-woman-found-dead-in-palm-plantation-identified-as-prosecutor’s-mother-in-law/#findComment-19387763

Thailand Rises to 41st in Global Innovation Index ASEAN NOW file Thailand has achieved its highest position in the Global Innovation Index (GII) in a decade, climbing to 41st place among 133 economies, as reported by the National Innovation Agency (NIA). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343792-thailand-rises-to-41st-in-global-innovation-index/

Lax Law Enforcement Cited for Alarming Road Fatalities in Thailand File photo Advocates are raising concerns about insufficient enforcement of road safety laws, which they believe is significantly contributing to Thailand's staggering road fatality rate. On average, the country registers around 48 road deaths daily. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343791-lax-law-enforcement-cited-for-alarming-road-fatalities-in-thailand/

Immigration System Overhaul Underway at Suvarnabhumi Airport File photo courtesy: Matichon Thailand's Immigration Bureau (IB) announced plans to enhance services at Suvarnabhumi Airport, aiming to strike a balance between streamlined efficiency and national security. The changes will be driven by the development of the Thailand Immigration System (TIS), which aims to modernise the immigration process with advanced technology. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343790-immigration-system-overhaul-underway-at-suvarnabhumi-airport/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 18 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1343780-thailand-live-monday-18-november-2024/

File photo Advocates are raising concerns about insufficient enforcement of road safety laws, which they believe is significantly contributing to Thailand's staggering road fatality rate. On average, the country registers around 48 road deaths daily. Speaking at a recent event marking the World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims, advocates pressed for immediate improvements in law enforcement. The event, supported by the Thai Health Promotion Foundation at the Bangkok Art and Cultural Centre, threw light on Thailand's grim statistics. Last year alone, 17,498 people lost their lives in traffic accidents, illustrating a dire need for changes to road safety regulations. Surachai Liengboonlertchai, who chairs a parliamentary road safety subcommittee, stressed the importance of remembering victims and pushing for systemic changes to prevent future tragedies. The call for action is echoed by Ratchanee Supawatjariyakul, president of the Road Traffic Accident Victims Empowerment Network, who has personally been affected by these statistics. She lost her daughter to a road accident involving an off-duty police officer in early 2022. Advocates argue for tougher amendments to the Land Traffic Act and the Vehicles Act to deter violators through harsher penalties and faster legal processes. Revising how driver's licences are issued, with more stringent tests, is also recommended. Key proposals include capping speed limits in urban areas at 50 km/h, increasing fines for motorists who neglect pedestrian crossings, and penalising motorcyclists who invade pavements. Additionally, tighter penalties for drink-driving offenders are urged to include both imprisonment and fines. Joining the discourse, Dr Withid Sariddeechaikool of the Food and Drug Administration cautioned drivers against medications that impair alertness, contributing to Thailand's ranking as having the ninth-highest rate of road traffic accidents globally. Such holistic attempts aim to curb the nation’s distressing road fatality statistics effectively, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-18

File photo courtesy: Matichon Thailand's Immigration Bureau (IB) announced plans to enhance services at Suvarnabhumi Airport, aiming to strike a balance between streamlined efficiency and national security. The changes will be driven by the development of the Thailand Immigration System (TIS), which aims to modernise the immigration process with advanced technology. Discussing this initiative, Pol Maj Gen Choengron Rimpadee, head of Immigration Division 2, emphasised the importance of integrating faster services for the anticipated influx of passengers. With prior experience in managing immigration at five key international airports, Maj Gen Choengron is well-placed to lead these improvements. With Suvarnabhumi currently accommodating an average of 120,000 passengers daily, projections for peak season suggest this number could rise to 135,000. Hence, the need for additional staff and resources is pressing, following the Prime Minister's recent visit highlighting the issue of congestion. To address these challenges, new systems have been introduced to reduce the processing time per passenger from 1-2 minutes to approximately 45 seconds. The elimination of certain steps, such as manually entering flight data, will contribute to these efficiencies. As a result, the total waiting time, including queuing, is expected to be under 20 minutes. The planned roll-out of the Advanced Passenger Processing System (APPS) further aims to bolster security by flagging individuals wanted internationally before they even reach passport control. Looking ahead, the IB aims to complete the TIS within two years, integrating AI for enhanced security measures. Automatic channels mirroring those at Singapore’s Changi Airport could further streamline processes. While these technological upgrades promise speedier services, the dedication to national safety remains paramount, with immigration officers keeping vigilant to prevent potential threats, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-18

ASEAN NOW file Thailand has achieved its highest position in the Global Innovation Index (GII) in a decade, climbing to 41st place among 133 economies, as reported by the National Innovation Agency (NIA). This marks a notable improvement from last year's 43rd position and solidifies Thailand's third place among ASEAN countries, following Singapore and Malaysia. The GII, developed by the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), assesses countries' innovation capabilities using around 80 indicators, grouped into inputs and outputs. The top innovators globally include Switzerland, Sweden, and the United States, with Singapore leading in ASEAN. Thailand's enhanced ranking is attributed to significant improvements in both input and output sub-indexes of innovation capability, indicating successful strategies in promoting innovation, according to Krithpaka Boonfueng, the NIA's executive director. Notably, the country excels in business system innovation indicators, particularly in gross domestic expenditure on research and development (GERD). However, Thailand still faces challenges in areas such as ICT service exports and education spending as a percentage of GDP. These sectors require more effort to enhance the country’s innovation landscape. Ms Krithpaka emphasised the need for greater government involvement in steering the national innovation agenda. Stronger partnerships between public sector researchers and private enterprises are vital to understanding and meeting market demands. To bolster these efforts, the Ministry of Commerce plans to promote collaborative initiatives between government and industry to further boost Thailand’s innovation capabilities. This alignment aims to harness the potential of Thailand’s innovation landscape and position it for continued growth on the global stage. The recent rise in the GII ranking reflects Thailand's commitment to fostering an environment conducive to innovation and development, paving the way for future achievements and enhanced global competitiveness, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-18

Picture courtesy of TMN. Australian Businesswoman’s Condo in Pattaya Robbed: Over 3 Million Baht Stolen Pattaya City Police received a report of a robbery at a luxury condominium in Soi 5, Pratumnak Hill, South Pattaya, Chonburi Province. The victim, a 40-year-old Australian businesswoman in real estate was left in shock after discovering her valuables worth over 3.5 million baht had been stolen. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343762-australian-businesswoman’s-condo-in-pattaya-robbed-over-3-million-baht-stolen/

Thai elderly to soon receive 10,000 baht cash aid: Finance Ministry Photo of Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's Ministry of Finance is poised to introduce a one-time cash payment initiative targeting the elderly, as confirmed by Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343714-thai-elderly-to-soon-receive-10000-baht-cash-aid-finance-ministry/

Thailand's Ministry of Finance is poised to introduce a one-time cash payment initiative targeting the elderly, as confirmed by Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul. This proposal, amounting to 10,000 baht, will be presented during the upcoming economic stimulus policy committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday, November 19. This new measure specifically excludes state welfare cardholders and disabled individuals who previously received 10,000 baht in the initial phase of the consumption stimulus programme in late September. To access this financial aid, eligible recipients must register via the Tang Rat app, a government platform for disbursing funds. “The eligible age range will be determined by the committee, potentially starting from either 50 or 60.” Paopoom emphasised the rationale that older individuals possess diminished income-generating capabilities compared to other demographic groups. The deputy minister anticipates that this second phase will see fewer applicants compared to the initial phase, with disbursements likely occurring at the end of this year or early next year. For those lacking smartphone access, alternative registration methods will be made available, with further updates to follow. “All registered Thais will eventually receive the 10,000 baht payment, as the government has earmarked over 180 billion baht for this purpose.” Paopoom noted that the precise timing and conditions are still under review. Adjustments will be based on feedback from relevant agencies to ensure the effectiveness of the programme. The agenda for Tuesday’s meeting will feature a presentation by the Finance Ministry outlining a comprehensive framework for stimulus measures. This framework aims to address short-, medium-, and long-term strategies, ensuring a holistic approach to economic stimulation across various sectors, reported Bangkok Post. Photo of Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-16

Thief caught after stealing historic sword from Bangkok temple by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A notorious thief was apprehended after stealing a revered sword belonging to King Taksin from a renowned temple in Thonburi, Bangkok. The suspect, claiming self-defence intentions, was not believed by police who suspected a different motive. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343712-thief-caught-after-stealing-historic-sword-from-bangkok-temple/

A notorious thief was apprehended after stealing a revered sword belonging to King Taksin from a renowned temple in Thonburi, Bangkok. The suspect, claiming self-defence intentions, was not believed by police who suspected a different motive. The incident occurred at Wat Intharam Worawihan, situated in Bang Yi Ruea, Thonburi, where the sword went missing on Wednesday, November 13. CCTV footage revealed a slender man dressed in a long-sleeved military camouflage shirt and blue trousers entering the temple’s sanctuary at 2.39pm. He reached over the altar, took the 2.5-foot sword with a red hilt, and tucked it into his left trouser leg before disappearing from view. Chanporn, a 35 year old coffee vendor operating a sidecar café in front of the temple, explained that she typically works from Tuesday to Sunday, taking Mondays off. She noted that the temple is quite deserted on weekdays, suggesting that the theft likely occurred then. “From the CCTV clip, I think the person might not be in their right mind. A normal person wouldn’t dare do such a thing.” The temple staff recounted that no one noticed the theft initially. It was only when they went to clean the sanctuary before closing it for the day that they realised the sword was missing. Upon reviewing the CCTV footage, they discovered the theft. Bang Yi Ruea police successfully apprehended 46 year old Wanchai, also known as Dam, yesterday, November 15, along with the stolen sword. He was caught outside a scrapyard in the Sala Nam Yen Market located on Sutthawat Road, Ban Chang Lo, Bangkok Noi. Photo courtesy of Matichon Initially, Wanchai confessed to the theft, claiming self-defence as his reason for taking the sword. However, police were sceptical of his claim, suspecting he intended to sell the item. The scrapyard refused to purchase the sword as it was not considered an antique. Wanchai, along with the evidence, was subsequently charged and taken into custody. The police suspicion that Wanchai planned to sell the sword rather than use it for self-defence stems from the location of his arrest. The scrapyard, known for dealing in non-antique items, was an unlikely place for someone seeking protection through a historic sword. The police’s disbelief was further fuelled by the unusual nature of the theft itself, as the sword holds significant cultural value and is not the typical item someone would steal for personal defence. The theft has sparked conversations about the security of historical artefacts in public spaces, particularly in temples that are both cultural landmarks and active places of worship. The incident underscores the need for enhanced vigilance and security measures to protect such valuable items from opportunistic theft, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-16