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Picture courtesy of Daily News Authorities have unveiled a scheme at the Similan Islands where foreign tourists were falsely recorded as Thai to exploit ticket price differences, profiting by 400%. In a surprise inspection, Yutthana Wimolmuang, head of Trang Province's Anti-Corruption Division, and his team discovered irregularities at the Similan Islands National Park. Despite only ten Thai visitors being registered via the E-ticket system, 50 foreign tourists were counted on-site, revealing a fraudulent operation of reselling tickets. This has led to the relocation of the park's chief, Lai-Gen Rittikorn Noonloy, pending further investigation. On 27 March, further inquiries exposed significant discrepancies in park revenues. Although foreign visitors increased, the E-ticket system inaccurately recorded them as Thais. This allowed the culprits to pocket the price difference, as Thai tickets are cheaper than those for foreigners. The ticket prices are as follows: Thais pay 50 baht for children and 100 baht for adults, whereas foreigners are charged 250 baht for children and 500 baht for adults. This discrepancy permits perpetrators to gain a 400% profit by registering foreign tourists as Thais. For instance, if 1,000 foreign tourists pay the Thai rate, the illegal profit could total 400,000 baht daily. The operation highlights severe exploitation of national park revenues. Authorities are urged to expedite a thorough investigation and enforce legal action. Based on a story by Daily News. -- 2025-03-27

French Gang Member Arrested in Phuket Over Jailbreak Plot Picture courtesy of 77kaoded Phuket immigration authorities have apprehended a 24-year-old French national, part of an international criminal gang, wanted for a deadly prison escape in France. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355900-french-gang-member-arrested-in-phuket-over-jailbreak-plot/

Picture courtesy of 77kaoded Phuket immigration authorities have apprehended a 24-year-old French national, part of an international criminal gang, wanted for a deadly prison escape in France. On 26 March 2568, following directives from Thailand's National Police and Immigration Bureau, a coordinated effort led to the capture of Mr. Adonis, a suspect in a high-profile jailbreak and murder of correctional officers back in France. The arrest, carried out by Phuket's immigration team alongside the Crime Suppression Division, comes after a tip-off from the French Embassy about the significant fugitive. According to statements, Mr. Adonis, who had been evading an Interpol warrant, admitted to his involvement in the violent escape and subsequent refuge on the Thai island. Picture courtesy of77kaoded Local authorities are continuing efforts to combat illegal activities by foreigners, safeguarding residents and tourists in Phuket. Based on a story by 77 kaoded. -- 2025-03-27

Teenagers Arrested for Broadcasting Brutal Murder of Trang Man Online In a disturbing incident in Trang, two 14-year-old boys were arrested for the brutal murder of a 33-year-old man, which they filmed and posted on social media. The shocking murder occurred in a rubber plantation and was reported by Esor News on March 25. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355873-teenagers-arrested-for-broadcasting-brutal-murder-of-trang-man-online/

Transport Minister Denies Secret Multi-Billion Rail Deal Allegations Photo courtesy of Thailand Construction and Engineering News Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit has categorically denied opposition claims that the government is secretly negotiating high-value agreements related to the high-speed rail project linking Bangkok’s main airports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355863-transport-minister-denies-secret-multi-billion-rail-deal-allegations/

Thailand's Global Education Ranking Sparks Controversy and Scrutiny Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's education system has become a topic of heated discussion following its placement at 107th out of 203 countries in a global education survey by the World Population Review. This ranking has raised concerns among Thai officials, with some criticising the survey's methodology as misleading. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355878-thailands-global-education-ranking-sparks-controversy-and-scrutiny/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 27 March 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1355874-thailand-live-thursday-27-march-2025/

Bangkok Gears Up for 2028 Formula One Grand Prix with New Plans Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand is on track to host a Formula One (F1) race in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district by 2028, following a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) and F1. This announcement comes after F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali’s meeting with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to discuss the potential Grand Prix. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355861-bangkok-gears-up-for-2028-formula-one-grand-prix-with-new-plans/

Paetongtarn Triumphs! Censure Vote No Match for Pheu Thai Power Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, center, reacts after a no-confidence vote against her was defeated in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, March 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter of political heavyweight Thaksin Shinawatra, has firmly held her ground today. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355830-paetongtarn-triumphs-censure-vote-no-match-for-pheu-thai-power/

Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, center, reacts after a no-confidence vote against her was defeated in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, March 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter of political heavyweight Thaksin Shinawatra, has firmly held her ground today. Surviving the awaited censure motion, she collected a robust 319 votes from loyal Pheu Thai-backed MPs. Meanwhile, just 162 MPs from the opposing People’s party voted against her, outnumbered and outmanoeuvred. The heat in parliament was undeniable, with Paetongtarn facing a barrage of accusations. Critics questioned her leadership credentials and accused her of failing to fulfil her promises. Adding fuel to the fire were claims linking her to her father’s controversial stay at the Police Hospital, under a cloak as a "critically ill" patient to dodge jail time. Despite the firestorm, Paetongtarn emerged unscathed with several MPs choosing not to vote at all. Seven lawmakers remained on the sidelines during the decision moment, neither supporting nor opposing the motion. This underlines her firm grip on the coalition, ensuring her leadership remains unchallenged, at least, for now. The backdrop of this political drama is a tale as old as power itself, where familial ties and old alliances play a significant role. The survival of this censure motion highlights the Pheu Thai Party's dominance in the Thai political landscape. The country's political dynamics remain fascinating, with stories like these continuing to unfold, gripping audiences both in the halls of power and everyday citizens. As the dust settles, speculation buzzes on what comes next for Paetongtarn and Thailand's future. The stakes remain high, with the Prime Minister steering through turbulent waters while critics linger, ready to challenge at the next round. For now, Paetongtarn has silenced the critics, but the political chess game continues. Based on a story by Thai Newsroom -- 2025-03-26

UPDATE: British Tourist's Identity Confirmed After Bangkok Footpath Death Picture courtesy of Metro UK A British tourist, now identified as 28-year-old Nick Weir from Salisbury, tragically lost his life in Bangkok’s Bang Sue district. Found on a city footpath, Weir died after a confrontation with karaoke bar workers spiralled out of control. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355701-british-man-dies-after-footpath-altercation-in-bangkok/page/4/#findComment-19685423

UPDATE: British Tourist's Identity Confirmed After Bangkok Footpath Death Picture courtesy of Metro UK A British tourist, now identified as 28-year-old Nick Weir from Salisbury, tragically lost his life in Bangkok’s Bang Sue district. Found on a city footpath, Weir died after a confrontation with karaoke bar workers spiralled out of control. The chaos began with erratic behaviour as Weir tried to enter a local bar, demanding beers. Bar staff stopped him, prompting a chase by staff on a motorcycle, leading to a violent struggle. Weir allegedly grabbed a phone in the scuffle, trying to escape but ended up pinned down by the workers. Police report that the workers claimed their actions weren't aggressive enough to be fatal. However, CCTV footage shows an intense confrontation, raising questions about what truly happened. Witnesses suspect Weir's erratic behaviour may have been drug-induced, and exhaustion could've contributed to his demise. Currently, the two workers are under police scrutiny, but no charges have been filed. An autopsy will clarify the cause of death. Meanwhile, the British Embassy has been informed, and support is provided to Weir's family. Based on a story by The Thaiger -- 2025-03-26

Trump Tariff Turmoil: Thai Car Market Skids to a Halt Picture courtesy of automoblog The wheels of Thailand's car industry are grinding slower as President Trump mulls harsh tariffs on imported vehicles. The proposed 25% levy, expected from April 2, has spread a chilling effect across global car markets. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355818-trump-tariff-turmoil-thai-car-market-skids-to-a-halt/

Picture courtesy of automoblog The wheels of Thailand's car industry are grinding slower as President Trump mulls harsh tariffs on imported vehicles. The proposed 25% levy, expected from April 2, has spread a chilling effect across global car markets. Key players are hesitating, with Surapong Paisitpatanapong from the Thai Federation of Industries noting a significant drop in orders for traditional petrol-powered cars. The landscape is murky: countries are holding back, waiting for more information on Trump's next move. The impact is visible. Thai car exports dove by 8.34% in February, with only 81,323 units shipped. The year's start has been bleak, with a whopping 18.1% decline in exports, reaching a mere 143,644 cars. Stricter emissions rules elsewhere are adding salt to the wound for Thailand’s automotive sector, adding further challenges in the market. As if exports weren't enough of a headache, the domestic scene looks equally grim. February saw local sales dip by 6.68% as tighter lending rules curbed buyers' appetites, leaving the first two months of 2025 with a 9.53% dip in sales at just 97,395 cars. Manufacturers are therefore seeing ripple effects, with February's production slumping by 13.6%. Optimistically, folks are pinning hopes on the ongoing Bangkok International Motor Show. Running until April 6, it’s seen as a lifeline with potential deals and discounts. Meanwhile, the government's 5-billion-baht loan initiative aimed at spurring SME pickups could jolt some life into the market. Surapong is pushing for leniency, asking that non-financial bodies be given the green light to offer loans, hoping to revive the stalling market. While clouds gather over Thailand's automotive future, the coming months are pivotal. All eyes are now on Trump’s looming decision, and until then, it's a waiting game. The industry anticipates that clearer directives will either slow down or fast-track a market recalibration. Based on a story by The Thaiger -- 2025-03-26

Foreign Women Detained in Bangkok Karaoke Raid Picture via Daily News Thai immigration police have detained 14 migrant workers in a karaoke restaurant in the Lat Krabang area, Bangkok, following a tip-off about illegal employment. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355807-foreign-women-detained-in-bangkok-karaoke-raid/

Picture via Daily News Thai immigration police have detained 14 migrant workers in a karaoke restaurant in the Lat Krabang area, Bangkok, following a tip-off about illegal employment. On 25th March, Pol Lt Gen Phanumas Boonyalak, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, alongside Pol Maj Gen Prasart Khemmasitthi, ordered a team led by Pol Col Pholsit Sutthiart and Pol Lt Col Pornchai Sukkacharoen to investigate a local restaurant suspected of hiring illegal migrant workers. Undercover officers confirmed the presence of foreign nationals working as drink companions at the venue. Upon raiding the premises, officers apprehended 14 foreign nationals who admitted to entering Thailand legally but working illegally as servers and drink companions for a daily wage of 150 baht. These individuals, employed for approximately 1-2 months, now face charges for working without a permit and have been referred to Romklao Police Station for legal proceedings. Pol Maj Gen Prasart Khemmasitthi emphasised the government's concern over illegal migrant labour and its impact on local employment. The Royal Thai Police have been instructed to intensify efforts to prevent and prosecute such activities. Citizens are encouraged to report illegal employment of migrants to the Immigration Bureau or by calling 1178. Based on a story by Daily News -- 2025-03-26

Thai Tourism Fears Loom as Casino Debate Heats Up Reference picture via Wikipedia Legalising casinos in Thailand could scare off Chinese tourists, warns MPs. The opposition claims this controversial move wasn't on the election menu. Could it upset Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's government? Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355805-thai-tourism-fears-loom-as-casino-debate-heats-up/

Reference picture via Wikipedia Legalising casinos in Thailand could scare off Chinese tourists, warns MPs. The opposition claims this controversial move wasn't on the election menu. Could it upset Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's government? The worry? China might cut back visits if gambling is greenlit. They’ve already pulled back on Singapore, the Philippines, and Macau. MP Parit Wacharasindhu says President Xi quizzed the PM on this risky gamble last month. Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, Thai Travel chief, has been chatting with China for ages. They're not thrilled about Thai’s potential casino plans. Could it sink arrivals to sunny Thailand? China’s wary of casinos due to money laundering worries. Even Macau, heavily casino-reliant, felt the sting as Chinese visitor numbers took a dip. But can Thailand afford similar consequences? Despite the revenue allure, Sisdivachr advises caution. Casinos might fill coffers but drain tourists. Some voices argue: skip the gambling, play it safe instead. Based on a story by Bangkok Post -- 2025-03-26

Ugandan Man Caught Smuggling Cocaine Worth 30 Million Baht in Thailand 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. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355793-ugandan-man-caught-smuggling-cocaine-worth-30-million-baht-in-thailand/

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/