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Pictures via Siam Rath Immigration police in Songkhla have detained a Ugandan national found smuggling over 16.5 kilogrammes of cocaine, estimated to be valued at over 30 million baht, into Thailand. The suspect, 29-year-old Mr Kazim, was intercepted following a tip-off and careful observation by authorities as he attempted to transport the drugs from Malaysia, with an ultimate destination of Bangkok. This operation aligns with intensified measures against illegal entry and narcotics trafficking, led by top officials at the Immigration Bureau. Upon investigation, Mr Kazim was found in a hotel in Hat Yai, arousing suspicion by carrying a large suitcase lacking an entry stamp in his passport. This prompted a search that unveiled 41 packages of cocaine hidden in various items like backpacks, shirts, picture frames, and car parts. During questioning, Mr Kazim confessed to being recruited by fellow Ugandans to move the cocaine from Malaysia into Thailand, reportedly for a payment of 1,000 US dollars (approximately 35,000 baht). His journey took him from Malaysia’s Kelantan state to Narathiwat and onward to Songkhla, with plans to continue to Bangkok by bus before his arrest. He faces charges for importing a Category 2 narcotic and entering the country illegally. Authorities stress the importance of public cooperation to report any suspicious activities by foreigners, aiming to curb cross-border drug trade and safeguard local communities. Based on a story by Siam Rath -- 2025-03-26

Thai Minister Stands Firm Amid Criticism on Air Pollution Fight Picture via NBT World Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa has hit back at critics, defending Thailand’s international efforts to tackle PM2.5 air pollution. Facing a no-confidence debate, Maris assured that Thailand is not just sitting back and letting the haze roll in from neighbouring ASEAN nations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355785-thai-minister-stands-firm-amid-criticism-on-air-pollution-fight/

Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa has hit back at critics, defending Thailand’s international efforts to tackle PM2.5 air pollution. Facing a no-confidence debate, Maris assured that Thailand is not just sitting back and letting the haze roll in from neighbouring ASEAN nations. Thailand's "Blue Sky Strategy" sees it teaming up with Laos and Myanmar to combat cross-border haze. This collaboration includes zoning, emergency alerts, and haze monitoring. And it's not just about regional ties: heavy hitters like Japan, South Korea, and the US are involved too! There’s even a Joint Task Force meeting coming up to expand alliances. Bilateral projects are also steaming ahead. Thai and Lao teams are working hand in hand on training and tech for better haze control. Plus, a pending agreement with Cambodia promises a hotline for hotspot data and firefighting coordination. The message is clear: Thailand's in it to win it against air pollution. Based on a story by NBT World -- 2025-03-26

Bitter Blowback: Govt Slammed for '73 Days of Uyghur Lies' Photo via Thai PBS Critics are having a field day with Thailand's controversial decision to deport 40 Uyghurs to China, calling it a stain on the nation's reputation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355777-bitter-blowback-govt-slammed-for-73-days-of-uyghur-lies/

Photo via Thai PBS Critics are having a field day with Thailand's controversial decision to deport 40 Uyghurs to China, calling it a stain on the nation's reputation. Fiery Fair Party MP Kannavee Suebsueng is leading the charge, dubbing it “73 Days of Lies” and accusing Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra of damaging international relations. According to Kannavee, the whole thing was a clandestine operation filled with government lies and misinformation, with claims that even after the deportation, officials kept up the charade. Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong argues back, saying the Uyghurs wanted to return and dismissing refugee status claims due to a lack of UNHCR documents. He stands firm, claiming the move adhered to national security and legal principles, citing dire conditions in detention centres. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai fires another shot at Kannavee, suggesting inexperience led him to misunderstand the importance of national security. But the drama doesn't stop there, as Phumtham insists that after visiting Xinjiang, they found Uyghurs who wanted to carve their own path. Amidst all the back-and-forth, Thailand stands at a crossroads, juggling sovereignty and international criticism. Is it a win for national security, or a spectacular misstep? The debate rages on. Based on a story by Thai PBS -- 2025-03-26

Paetongtarn Slams 'Devil Deal' Allegations Over Thaksin Return Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, left, and Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra react during a no-confidence debate against the prime minister at Parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, March 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has shot down claims that her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, returned from exile through dodgy dealings. She described rumours of a "deal with the Devil" as complete nonsense during a heated debate in the House. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355775-paetongtarn-slams-devil-deal-allegations-over-thaksin-return/

Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, left, and Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra react during a no-confidence debate against the prime minister at Parliament in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, March 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has shot down claims that her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, returned from exile through dodgy dealings. She described rumours of a "deal with the Devil" as complete nonsense during a heated debate in the House. The allegations came from People's MP Rangsiman Rome during a censure discussion. Paetongtarn labelled the claims as 100% false, asserting her dad always intended to return and spend his golden years at home. She stressed that Thaksin's return wasn't due to any sordid pact, but his long-standing wish. Critics suggested Thaksin's homecoming was influenced during former coup leader Prayut Chan-o-cha's regime wind-down. Paetongtarn firmly denied using governmental influence to aid her critically ill father or bending rules for favours. She showed deep empathy for Thaksin, noting he remained one of the coup's biggest victims, ousted from his prime minister role, and forced into exile. She assured the House that Thaksin’s return wasn't a result of shady dealings but a natural step homewards, as reported by Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-03-26

Thailand Faces Worsening Air Pollution: PM2.5 Levels Alarmingly High Picture courtesy of Thaipost Thailand continues to struggle with critical air pollution, as PM2.5 levels exceed safety standards in 61 provinces. According to the Pollution Control Department, stagnant air and atmospheric conditions akin to a lid are trapping pollutants, worsening air quality particularly in Bangkok and the northern regions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355749-thailand-faces-worsening-air-pollution-pm25-levels-alarmingly-high/

School Trip Bus Catches Fire, All 35 Children Evacuated Safely Pictures courtesy of ThaiRath. A school trip nearly ended in disaster when a bus carrying 35 primary school students caught fire on its way back to school. Fortunately, all students and teachers on board were safely evacuated before the flames took hold. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355703-school-trip-bus-catches-fire-all-35-children-evacuated-safely/

Canadian Tourist's Warning: Assault and Theft in Pattaya Bars Images provided to The Thaiger A retired Canadian man, Douglas, has issued a stark warning to fellow tourists after suffering a brazen assault and theft at the hands of three Thai women in Pattaya. The unsettling incident unfolded shortly after his return to Thailand on March 10, following a stay near Rompho Market in Jomtien. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355740-canadian-tourists-warning-assault-and-theft-in-pattaya-bars/

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 26 March 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1355739-thailand-live-wednesday-26-march-2025/

Ugandan Nationals Deported for Illegal Activities in Phuket Photo courtesy of Phuketandamannews Facebook In a significant blow to Phuket's tourism image, five Ugandan women were recently arrested and deported for engaging in illegal sex services. The arrests took place in the bustling Soi Bangla area of Patong, a hotspot for international visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355736-ugandan-nationals-deported-for-illegal-activities-in-phuket/

Tourists Arrested for App Gambling on Jomtien Beach Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A recent police crackdown on Jomtien Beach has resulted in the arrest of four tourists caught red-handed gambling via a mobile app, leading local authorities to consider penalties for a beach chair operator linked to the activity. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355706-tourists-arrested-for-app-gambling-on-jomtien-beach/

Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A recent police crackdown on Jomtien Beach has resulted in the arrest of four tourists caught red-handed gambling via a mobile app, leading local authorities to consider penalties for a beach chair operator linked to the activity. This incident unfolded at around 10:30 am on March 24th, when Pattaya police, during a routine patrol, encountered a group of tourists causing a commotion. Their loud cheers drew the attention of the municipal officers, who soon discovered over ten individuals involved in gambling on their mobile phones right there on the beach. As police approached, an initial panic set in amongst the gamblers, with many attempting a hasty escape. However, law enforcement quickly apprehended four of the tourists, while others managed to evade capture. The identities and nationalities of the detained individuals remain undisclosed by the authorities. Currently in police custody, the arrested tourists are likely facing charges related to illegal gambling. Police have confirmed their use of a mobile app, detailing how it facilitated their betting activities directly from the comfort of beach chairs rented from a local operator. The beach chair service operator, reportedly not present during the gambling incident, may still face consequences. Local officials have expressed intentions to investigate the matter thoroughly. If found negligent, the operator risks having their business licence suspended for up to 15 days. This event has reignited concerns over illegal activities tarnishing Pattaya's image as a beloved tourist hub. With the rising trend of online gambling, city officials have underscored their commitment to curbing such practices. The authorities have issued a stern warning that activities harming the city's reputation and legal standing will not be tolerated. Pattaya, renowned for its scenic beaches and vibrant nightlife, faces ongoing challenges with illegal gambling, especially amid increasing digital methods that make such transgressions easier to commit. The recent crackdown signals a clear message from local law enforcement: illegal gambling, regardless of the medium, has no place on Pattaya's shores. In response to this incident, the city plans to bolster enforcement efforts, ensuring that tourists and locals can enjoy Pattaya's beautiful beaches without the encumbrance of illicit activities. Local businesses, particularly those renting beach amenities, are also urged to stay vigilant and report suspicious behaviour, further safeguarding Pattaya's welcoming atmosphere for all its visitors, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-25

British Man Dies After Footpath Altercation in Bangkok Picture via Amarin TV Tragedy struck a Bangkok street on Sunday night when a British man, later identified as a 28-year-old, suddenly died after a tumultuous encounter with local karaoke bar workers. The incident unfolded near Soi Pracharat Sai 1, Section 7/1, in the bustling Bang Sue district, drawing considerable attention from officials and passers-by. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355701-british-man-dies-after-footpath-altercation-in-bangkok/

Picture via Amarin TV Tragedy struck a Bangkok street on Sunday night when a British man, later identified as a 28-year-old, suddenly died after a tumultuous encounter with local karaoke bar workers. The incident unfolded near Soi Pracharat Sai 1, Section 7/1, in the bustling Bang Sue district, drawing considerable attention from officials and passers-by. The Briton was discovered lying face-up on the pavement, with visible bleeding from his nose. Officers responding from the Bang Pho Police Station were unable to identify him initially due to the absence of personal identification, but details emerged through Thai media scrutiny. This unsettling episode began when the foreigner was seen exhibiting erratic behaviour, sprinting from Kiak Kai Intersection towards a local karaoke venue. Witnesses account that his attempt to storm the bar was thwarted by two alert workers due to his suspicious demeanour. As the man’s eccentric actions persisted, the workers mounted their motorcycle to assist him, stemming perhaps from concern or mere curiosity. However, when they reached him, their efforts to communicate floundered, culminating in an unintended scuffle. The workers attempted to facilitate conversation by handing over a mobile phone loaded with a translation app, but the man’s agitation seemed to intensify. In an unexpected twist, he seized the phone and tried to abscond. The workers managed to retrieve their phone, but the foreigner was not deterred and turned his attention to their motorcycle parked nearby, trying to make off with it despite lacking the key. Picture via Amarin TV A brief physical altercation followed as the workers attempted to deter him, which unexpectedly led to his sudden collapse and subsequent death. Witnesses nearby, including another karaoke worker, speculated on drugs or sheer exhaustion from his frantic activities as possible culprits in his unforeseen demise. Despite the shocking nature of the incident, the karaoke workers assert their tussle with the man wasn't severe enough to be lethal. Both remain in police custody for investigative questioning, while the foreigner’s body has been sent for an autopsy to clarify the exact cause of death. As the authorities await these autopsy results, the workers face a period of uncertainty, pending any formal charges. While this incident leaves questions unanswered, it underscores complexities faced by foreign nationals in unfamiliar territories and the challenges local authorities encounter in such perplexing situations, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-25

German Tourist Severely Beaten in Pattaya by Group of 10 Men Picture courtesy of Daily News A German tourist was violently attacked by a group of about ten men on Pattaya Beach Road in Chonburi. Local police in Pattaya swiftly arrested three suspects involved in the assault, which has tarnished the city's reputation as a tourist destination. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355698-german-tourist-severely-beaten-in-pattaya-by-group-of-10-men/

Picture courtesy of Daily News A German tourist was violently attacked by a group of about ten men on Pattaya Beach Road in Chonburi. Local police in Pattaya swiftly arrested three suspects involved in the assault, which has tarnished the city's reputation as a tourist destination. The incident occurred around 4:06 am on 25th March, with emergency services and police quickly arriving on the scene following reports of an assault. The victim, identified as Mr. David Adrian Lelonek, 40, suffered extensive injuries, including facial wounds and a laceration above his left eyebrow. Rescuers promptly provided first aid before rushing him to hospital. Mr. Lelonek, speaking through a translator, informed the police that he was unsure of the attack's details but recalled being overwhelmed by approximately ten attackers. In a panic, he fled on a motorbike to seek help from locals until authorities arrived. Eyewitness footage recorded by a bystander showed the severity of the assault, with the gang punching, kicking, and even using a helmet to beat the tourist, despite onlookers' attempts to intervene. Pattaya's Deputy Investigation Chief, Police Lieutenant Colonel Arus Saphanont, quickly led an investigation, resulting in the arrest of three men nearby: Mr. Ta, 18, Mr. Benz, 25, and Mr. Sek, 27. Picture courtesy: Daily News The suspects admitted to their involvement, claiming they misunderstood the situation as a fellow motorbike taxi driver was involved, and wanted to defend him, even acknowledging their excessive violence. Police Lieutenant Colonel Arus expressed deep concern over the assault captured in the video, highlighting its damaging impact on Pattaya's image. He urged locals not to resort to violence, stressing the importance of involving police in such incidents to preserve the city's appeal and economy. The investigation remains ongoing to apprehend the remaining attackers as the injured tourist pursues formal charges, reported Daily News. -- 2025-03-25

Dutch Tourist in Krabi Runs Naked, Falls Down Stairs, Rescued by Authorities Picture courtesy of Facebook Morning Story A Dutch tourist caused a commotion at a Krabi hotel, running around nude and shouting incoherently before tumbling down the stairs and injuring himself. Police and rescue services had to restrain and transport him to the hospital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355687-dutch-tourist-in-krabi-runs-naked-falls-down-stairs-rescued-by-authorities/

Picture courtesy of Facebook Morning Story A Dutch tourist caused a commotion at a Krabi hotel, running around nude and shouting incoherently before tumbling down the stairs and injuring himself. Police and rescue services had to restrain and transport him to the hospital. Around 3:30 PM on 24th March 2025, Krabi city police were alerted by staff at a hotel on Chao Fa Road about a foreign male tourist exhibiting erratic behaviour. The man, identified as 51-year-old Mr Ronald from the Netherlands, was agitated and undressed, ignoring attempts by the hotel staff to calm him. Upon arrival, police and Krabi Pitak Pracha Rescue Foundation personnel found Mr Hillmar had retreated to his room after seeing officers. The room was on the second floor where they found him still unclothed. Attempts to persuade him to dress were successful before negotiating to take him to Krabi Hospital. He had bruises consistent with his fall down the stairs and appeared to be under the influence of either drugs or alcohol. Despite their efforts, Mr Ronald resisted, necessitating restraints to transport him safely. Hotel staff reported that Mr Ronald was supposed to check out on the day of the incident. It was during attempts to remind him of this that he began running around the hotel nude and fell. Uncertain whether his state was due to substance use or intoxication, the staff sought police and rescue assistance to handle the situation, reported 3Plus NEWS. -- 2025-03-25

Thailand's Coastline Threatened by Melting Iceberg, Expert Warns Picture courtesy of Saudi Gazette The world's largest iceberg, A23a, is melting at a worrying rate due to rising global temperatures, posing a potential threat to Thailand's coastline over the coming 25 years, cautioned environmental expert Sonthi Kotchawat on Monday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355684-thailands-coastline-threatened-by-melting-iceberg-expert-warns/

Picture courtesy of Saudi Gazette The world's largest iceberg, A23a, is melting at a worrying rate due to rising global temperatures, posing a potential threat to Thailand's coastline over the coming 25 years, cautioned environmental expert Sonthi Kotchawat on Monday. Iceberg A23a, a massive block of ice covering around 3,500 square kilometres – an area over twice the size of Greater Bangkok – has been lodged off South Georgia Island, near Antarctica since it detached from the ice sheet in 1986. As global temperatures creep upwards, surpassing the Paris Agreement's 1.5 degrees Celsius target, concerns grow that A23a may fragment, grounding more icebergs into the Southern Ocean's key shipping lanes. Sonthi underscores a broader environmental impact. The break-up of A23a could disrupt vital shipping routes and jeopardise the habitats of local wildlife, including penguins and seals. Moreover, the iceberg's meltwater may contribute to plummeting plankton blooms, altering the local food chain dynamics by releasing locked minerals and nutrients. Adding to these concerns, the influx of fresh meltwater from A23a is likely to elevate sea levels, with implications for coastal areas. In Thailand—where coastal sea levels are already rising at approximately 5.8 millimetres annually—low-altitude locales such as Phra Samut Chedi in Samut Prakan, Bangkok's Bang Khun Thian district, and Bang Krachao in Samut Sakhon are at significant risk. Projections into 2050 suggest that without intervention, severe flooding could become more routine across Bangkok’s lower-lying regions, including Bang Kholaem, Bang Rak, Thon Buri, and others such as Bangkok Noi, Bang Na, Bang Kapi, Bang Khen, Don Muang, and Ramkhamhaeng. This would adversely affect over 10% of Thailand's population, reveals a Unesco report cited by Sonthi. Rising sea levels coupled with the changing climate represent a ticking time bomb for Thailand, exacerbating the vulnerability of its infrastructure and economy. Coastal management and climate adaptation become ever more critical as the data illustrates the compounded threat to both ecology and human settlements. The message calls for urgent action as stakeholders increase efforts to mitigate these potential impacts, emphasising the need for robust environmental policies and international cooperation. This complex interplay of factors underscores the urgency for a proactive approach as these environmental shifts no longer remain a distant possibility but a present unfolding reality, inevitably impacting millions in Thailand and beyond, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-25

Toddler Hospitalised with Bone-Deep Dog Bite in Buriram Picture courtesy of Daily News A two-year-old boy was seriously injured after being attacked by a family dog at a relative’s home in Buriram Province. The child, who had been playing at his grandmother's relative's house, suffered a deep wound to his leg, stretching 7 centimetres wide and involving tendons and bone. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355682-toddler-hospitalised-with-bone-deep-dog-bite-in-buriram/

Picture courtesy of Daily News A two-year-old boy was seriously injured after being attacked by a family dog at a relative’s home in Buriram Province. The child, who had been playing at his grandmother's relative's house, suffered a deep wound to his leg, stretching 7 centimetres wide and involving tendons and bone. On 24th March, it was reported that the incident occurred when the boy, familiar with the dog named ‘Oleang’, was unexpectedly bitten. The dog, previously known for its friendly demeanour, abruptly turned violent, leaving the boy’s grandmother, Mrs. Sin, in shock. She expressed disbelief that such an incident could occur, given the dog’s usual familiarity with her grandson. Mrs. Sin described how ‘Oleang’ approached the boy and bit his leg, causing panic among those present. It took several minutes for her and family members to free the child from the dog’s grip. The severe wound required medical intervention at a local hospital, where the child is being closely monitored for infection due to the depth of the injury. Speculation has arisen regarding the sudden change in the dog's behaviour. The dog's owner noted that ‘Oleang’ had appeared irritable in the days leading up to the attack, raising concerns about a possible rabies infection. As a precaution, the dog has been quarantined for observation, reported Daily News. -- 2025-03-25

Thailand Ranks 3rd in Global QR Code Payments, China Leads File photo for reference only China leads in global QR code use, with Thailand securing third place, according to recent data from Data Reportal. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355681-thailand-ranks-3rd-in-global-qr-code-payments-china-leads/