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File photo for reference obly IKEA is making waves in northern Thailand with the announcement of its first store opening in Chiang Mai, slated for February 27, 2025. This marks the fifth IKEA location in the country, a strategic expansion into a vibrant market outside the bustling capital of Bangkok. Situated at 171, Moo 7, Mae Hia Sub-district in the Mueang Chiang Mai District, the store is poised to transform the local retail scene. At the heart of this venture is a unique retail concept dubbed "Life Xpress," born from a collaboration with Decathlon, CP Future City, CP AXTRA, CP All, and TRUE. Integrating seamlessly into Makro Hang Dong, the IKEA Chiang Mai Plan and Order Point will encompass over 700 square metres. It promises an array of offerings, from more than 300 cash-and-carry products to detailed design consultation services. Leonie Hoskin, IKEA Thailand and Vietnam's Retail Manager, highlights the enduring importance of brick-and-mortar outlets amid online retail growth. "Customers value the experience of seeing, touching, and trying products," she asserts, underscoring IKEA's commitment to providing a tangible shopping experience that's lacking in the digital realm. Aside from conventional retail elements, the Chiang Mai store introduces convenience and culinary delight with its “Swedish Bites” corner. Visitors can indulge in treats like ice cream, hot dogs, cakes, and mix-and-match jellies, making it a destination for both shopping and snacking. The local launch represents an investment of 15 million Thai Baht, as IKEA seeks to test and expand this novel store model beyond the Bangkok hub. Success in Chiang Mai could pave the way for further ventures in regions such as Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Rayong, Surat Thani, and Hat Yai, broadening IKEA’s footprint across Thailand. Operating daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with planning and ordering services available until 7:00 PM, the store caters to busy schedules and flexible customer needs. Design consultations can be conveniently booked online, and assembly services are available for those who prefer expert assistance. For those eager to explore the new IKEA retail experience or require more information, further details are accessible on IKEA Thailand’s website or via their customer hotline at 02-708-7999. With this strategic opening, IKEA not only strengthens its presence in Thailand but also reinvents the shopping journey in Chiang Mai, offering a blend of convenience, style, and Scandinavian charm, reported ScandAsia. -- 2025-02-20

llegal Public Act in Bangkok Caught on Dashcam Goes Viral Photo via Facebook/ พชรดนัย ฯ. A Bolt motorcycle rider in Bangkok, Thailand recorded an explicit incident involving two men on a footpath in the city's Bang Khen district. The video was posted on February 18 to a Bolt Drivers Thailand Facebook group by the account พชรดนัย ฯ., and has drawn widespread criticism. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352278-illegal-public-act-in-bangkok-caught-on-dashcam-goes-viral/

Russian Tourist's Pattaya Adventure Sours with Luggage Theft Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News A Russian tourist's dream escape to Pattaya unravelled as a thief brazenly sliced open his suitcase, making off with over 100,000 baht in cash and valuables. Vladimir Tulayev, the victim of this daring heist, is left both frustrated and vulnerable after security cameras missed capturing the suspect. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352281-russian-tourists-pattaya-adventure-sours-with-luggage-theft/

Controversy in Thai Senate: Prisoner Healthcare Debate Paused Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English A heated debate over equal healthcare rights for prisoners was abruptly halted in Thailand’s Senate yesterday. Senator Angkhana Neelapaijit withdrew her motion, which aimed to address disparities in medical treatment between prisoners and prominent figures, such as former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Thaksin's six-month stay in a VIP hospital ward, instead of prison, has sparked criticism over perceived justice system double standards. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352284-controversy-in-thai-senate-prisoner-healthcare-debate-paused/

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Ex-Thai Actress Accuses British Husband of Fraud and Infidelity Photo via ThaiRath In a dramatic turn of events, Ladda Khantiphok, once a familiar face on Thai television, has accused her British husband, Ian, of swindling her out of her life savings and committing infidelity. Distraught and seeking justice, Ladda is calling on news agencies to help spread her story and connect her with legal assistance. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352288-ex-thai-actress-accuses-british-husband-of-fraud-and-infidelity/

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Family Rush to Rescue British Man With Mystery Illness in Thailand Picture courtesy: The Daily Mail In a race against time, the family of British man Raymond Wallace is working tirelessly to bring him back from Thailand, where he has been hospitalised with an enigmatic illness. The situation began with a surprising early-morning call from a Thai hospital, leaving his family alarmed and fearing they had been duped by scammers until the harrowing reality sank in. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352244-family-rush-to-rescue-british-man-with-mystery-illness-in-thailand/

Picture courtesy: Daily Mail UK In a race against time, the family of British man Raymond Wallace is working tirelessly to bring him back from Thailand, where he has been hospitalised with an enigmatic illness. The situation began with a surprising early-morning call from a Thai hospital, leaving his family alarmed and fearing they had been duped by scammers until the harrowing reality sank in. Wallace, a 72-year-old retired lorry driver from Sidmouth, Devon, embarked on a brief journey to Thailand. The visit took a drastic turn on Valentine’s Day when he experienced severe breathing difficulties and checked himself into a hospital in Hua Hin. His condition rapidly deteriorated, resulting in sedation and a ventilator, as doctors urgently sought to identify his ailment. Initially diagnosed with pneumonia, his condition was later revised to acute respiratory distress syndrome. However, conflicting information from the British Embassy suggested potential kidney issues, leaving the family struggling for clarity on Wallace’s true condition. With his travel insurance having lapsed before his hospitalisation, the family now faces escalating hospital costs of around £3,000 (approximately 127,500 THB) per day. This financial burden prompted them to launch a GoFundMe campaign in an effort to offset the mounting expenses. Doctors have warned the family that if Wallace's condition doesn't improve soon, he might need to be transferred to a more specialised hospital in Bangkok. Picture of Bangkok Hua Hin hospital courtesy: Daily Mail UK His daughter Karrie, along with her brother, are now preparing to fly out to Thailand, eager to understand his situation more fully. Karrie's background in healthcare has only added to her anxiety, as she handles the frustration of not having clearer answers about her father's health. Wallace's journey, originally meant to be a period of reflection and healing after losing his partner Jane to a brain tumour, commenced in Goa—a place of fond memories for him and Jane. However, an unexpected opportunity led him to Thailand, a change unbeknownst to his family until he casually mentioned it in a message. Now, as Wallace remains in critical but stable condition, his family's relentless efforts reflect their dedication and love as they navigate this challenging chapter. They've been working together remotely, communicating constantly via WhatsApp to coordinate their efforts. “We're trying everything we can,” Karrie shared, highlighting the family's proactive approach in coordinating resources and tackling challenges head-on. Although initially hesitant, the family decided to make their plea public with the GoFundMe campaign due to the escalating costs. At this juncture, the journey to bring Wallace back remains uncertain, yet their resolve remains undeterred. Driven by familial bonds and a fervent hope for Wallace's recovery, they continue to explore every avenue to return him safely to England, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-19

Thai Transwomen Expose Bangkok Taxi Overcharging in Viral Video Photo via TikTok/ @aisayawarin In a stunning move to highlight a prevalent issue in Bangkok's transport scene, two Thai transwomen took on the guise of foreign tourists to expose taxi drivers overcharging unsuspecting passengers. Their recorded escapade, which swiftly went viral on TikTok, has reignited discussions on fare integrity and ethical practices among taxi operators in Thailand's bustling capital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352239-thai-transwomen-expose-bangkok-taxi-overcharging-in-viral-video/

Photo via TikTok/ @aisayawarin In a stunning move to highlight a prevalent issue in Bangkok's transport scene, two Thai transwomen took on the guise of foreign tourists to expose taxi drivers overcharging unsuspecting passengers. Their recorded escapade, which swiftly went viral on TikTok, has reignited discussions on fare integrity and ethical practices among taxi operators in Thailand's bustling capital. Released on TikTok by the account aisayawarin on February 17, the video sees the two women concealing their identities as locals by adopting broken Thai, akin to that spoken by many tourists. The charade begins as they hail a taxi and request a ride to the popular Huay Kwang area. However, the driver, deviating from legal protocol, demanded a flat rate of 100 baht (approximately 135 THB) instead of using the meter, a tactic well-documented among certain taxi drivers in the city. The true nature of the passengers was revealed when, confronting the driver's unethical practice, they switched back to fluent Thai, calling out his behaviour. -- 2025-02-19

Thailand's Casino Bill Targets Tourism, Limits Local Entry Picture courtesy: Macao News In Thailand, the new Entertainment Complex Bill has proposed a casino-focused plan aimed primarily at boosting foreign tourism. However, strict measures are devised to limit access for locals to curtail gambling concerns, according to Pakorn Nilprapunt, the secretary-general of the Council of State (CoS). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352237-thailands-casino-bill-targets-tourism-limits-local-entry/

Picture courtesy: Macao News In Thailand, the new Entertainment Complex Bill has proposed a casino-focused plan aimed primarily at boosting foreign tourism. However, strict measures are devised to limit access for locals to curtail gambling concerns, according to Pakorn Nilprapunt, the secretary-general of the Council of State (CoS). The bill, currently under the second review stage, has recently opened for public feedback until March 1 via the CoS website. Mr. Pakorn noted that public input would be critical in shaping the final draft before its presentation to the cabinet in about 50 days following the feedback period. Central to the bill is the focus on "super board" oversight. While the powers of this policy board over entertainment complexes remain largely intact, there have been notable amendments to the casino approval and licensing procedures. A contentious aspect of the proposal is the requirement for Thai nationals wishing to enter these entertainment complexes to hold at least 50 million Thai Baht in their bank accounts. This provision aims to restrict gambling to individuals with sufficient financial resources, reducing the risk of problem gambling among locals. "We don't want the public to be consumed by gambling," Mr. Pakorn remarked, underscoring that gambling is not the sole purpose of the complexes, which are seen as man-made tourist attractions. Despite widespread public debate, Mr. Pakorn emphasised that the final decision rests with the government, which continues to drive the bill forward. Should the initiative proceed as planned, casinos would open within designated entertainment complexes—a move that has ignited spirited discussion about the potential social and political implications. To navigate these challenges, a special committee led by former deputy prime minister Wissanu Krea-ngam was established to review and amend the draft. The committee has proposed several changes, including defining the casino zones within these complexes and ensuring public hearings address social and environmental impacts. Moreover, the draft incorporates stringent regulations to tackle potential issues such as prostitution and mandates efforts to promote local employment within the complexes. The government aims to have the final draft ready for cabinet review by next month. As the bill continues to stir controversy and conversation nationwide, its progress symbolises a crucial balancing act between economic growth through tourism and ethical considerations regarding gambling—a debate that is set to resonate deeply within Thai society, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-19

Thaksin, Anwar Ibrahim, and Brunei Sultan Discuss Myanmar Crisis Picture courtesy: Thai Newsroom Key figures from Southeast Asia gathered for a crucial meeting in Brunei, intensifying discussions on pressing regional issues. Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and Sultan of Brunei Hassanal Bolkiah focused their talks on the Myanmar crisis, the South China Sea disputes, and enhancing intra-ASEAN trade. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352235-thaksin-anwar-ibrahim-and-brunei-sultan-discuss-myanmar-crisis/

Picture courtesy: Thai Newsroom Key figures from Southeast Asia gathered for a crucial meeting in Brunei, intensifying discussions on pressing regional issues. Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and Sultan of Brunei Hassanal Bolkiah focused their talks on the Myanmar crisis, the South China Sea disputes, and enhancing intra-ASEAN trade. Leading the talks at the Istana Nurul Iman, Anwar Ibrahim, as ASEAN's current chair, asserted the importance of these discussions, highlighting Sultan Bolkiah's vast ASEAN experience. The leaders collectively addressed the continuing Myanmar conflict, reaffirming the need to adhere to the Five-Point Consensus and to engage all relevant stakeholders. There is a pressing concern over the burgeoning illicit economy in Myanmar, dominated by drug trade, human trafficking, and scam operations, necessitating an urgent and strategic response. On the topic of the South China Sea, the trio agreed on the importance of diplomatic progress. The negotiation of the Code of Conduct (CoC) should be expedited to maintain peace and order in this often contentious region managed by several ASEAN countries alongside China. The leaders stressed the urgency of these diplomatic efforts to avert potential conflicts. Economic collaboration within ASEAN also took centre stage, particularly focusing on fostering greater trade and creating a business-friendly environment. They discussed the need for effective regulatory frameworks to stimulate capital inflow and to encourage robust economic growth within the region, promoting shared prosperity among nations. Cryptocurrency emerged as a topic of interest, with discussions centred around establishing proper blockchain infrastructure and enabling digital accessibility, which are seen as vital to the region's digital economy. Additionally, Anwar endorsed the proposed ASEAN-US summit, decided at the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Retreat in Langkawi, urging that it be promptly realised. The summit would aim to strengthen ties with the US, enhancing cooperation on various fronts. This high-level meeting underscores ASEAN's commitment to addressing both economic and political challenges in a collaborative manner, paving the way for a more integrated and stable region. The cooperative efforts of leaders like Thaksin, Anwar, and Sultan Bolkiah highlight the role of ASEAN in navigating complex geopolitical landscapes, focusing not only on crisis management but also on future economic growth and regional stability, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-02-19

China Pressures Thailand to Uphold Myanmar Utility Bans Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul directs the Provincial Electricity Authority in Bangkok to suspend power supply to five places in Myanmar. Courtesy: Tananchai Keawsowattana via Radio Free Asia In a strategic move against fraud, China has urged Thailand to maintain its utility restrictions on Myanmar. Since February, Thailand has limited electricity, fuel, and internet access at five Myanmar sites. These measures have been instrumental in curbing illegal call centres that plague the region. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352234-china-pressures-thailand-to-uphold-myanmar-utility-bans/

Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul directs the Provincial Electricity Authority in Bangkok to suspend power supply to five places in Myanmar. Courtesy: Tananchai Keawsowattana via Radio Free Asia In a strategic move against fraud, China has urged Thailand to maintain its utility restrictions on Myanmar. Since February, Thailand has limited electricity, fuel, and internet access at five Myanmar sites. These measures have been instrumental in curbing illegal call centres that plague the region. The request was communicated by Liu Zhongyi, China's Assistant Minister for Public Security, who put forward a four-point plan during discussions with Thai officials. The plan prioritises continuing the utility restrictions that have yielded positive outcomes against these illicit operations. In the backdrop of these developments, the Burmese government and the Karen Border Guard Force have initiated the transfer of 1,219 individuals, primarily Chinese nationals, to Thailand. This process, initiated on the Myanmar-Thai border, integrates stricter border management to hinder scam operators from fleeing Myanmar. Maj Gen Thanathip Sawangsaeng, spokesperson for Thailand's Defence Ministry, confirmed that approximately 300 Chinese citizens are prepped for repatriation. With the transfer primarily involving Chinese citizens, chartered flights are set to facilitate their return. To support this complex operation, Chinese officials will collaborate with Thai counterparts to coordinate the identification and repatriation processes. An additional proposal from Liu promotes deeper trilateral cooperation between China, Thailand, and Myanmar. The focus will be on reinforcing partnerships while adhering to the respective sovereignties and legal frameworks of the nations involved. Recognising the significance of these alliances, future meetings are on the cards, potentially expanding to include other willing nations. China's strategic engagement points to a larger regional effort to dismantle sophisticated fraud networks exploiting international borders. Liu Zhongyi is scheduled to meet Phumtham Wechayachai, Thailand's Defence Minister, to delve deeper into cooperation strategies against such illegal enterprises. Reportedly, 260 individuals transferred to Thailand's Mae Sot last week are already en route back to their countries following thorough vetting through the National Referral Mechanism. Moreover, Myanmar's authorities, in coordination with the Ratchamanu Task Force, have intimated the imminent transfer of over 1,200 people to the Thai border, with exact timelines yet to be determined. This evolving situation highlights the concerted efforts between nations to address cross-border crime and reflects a robust stand against complex transnational fraud activities. For Thailand, balancing diplomatic relations and internal security will be key in navigating this cooperative endeavour, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-02-19

Bank of Thailand Eyes Rate Cut Amidst Sluggish Growth Forecasts Bank of Thailand. File photo In a climate of economic uncertainty, Thailand's GDP growth for 2024 has underwhelmed expectations, leading experts to predict a possible rate cut by the Bank of Thailand in the first half of the year. Despite a boost from thriving exports, a rebound in tourism, and government stimulus measures, the overall growth rate was hampered due to reduced consumer spending on big-ticket items like automobiles and real estate. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352227-bank-of-thailand-eyes-rate-cut-amidst-sluggish-growth-forecasts/

Bank of Thailand. File photo In a climate of economic uncertainty, Thailand's GDP growth for 2024 has underwhelmed expectations, leading experts to predict a possible rate cut by the Bank of Thailand in the first half of the year. Despite a boost from thriving exports, a rebound in tourism, and government stimulus measures, the overall growth rate was hampered due to reduced consumer spending on big-ticket items like automobiles and real estate. Thailand recorded a GDP growth of just 2.5% for 2024, falling below the 2.7% anticipated by market analysts. This modest performance has caught the attention of economists at Kuala Lumpur-based Maybank, who expect monetary policy adjustments to support the nation's economic trajectory. The country's National Economic and Social Development Council has set a growth forecast between 2.3% and 3.3% for 2025, with a central estimate of 2.8%. Maybank maintains a cautious yet optimistic stance on 2025's growth potential, projecting a 2.8% increase. Nonetheless, the firm remains vigilant of potential headwinds both domestically and internationally, as they detailed in a recent research note. Similarly, BMI, a research unit of Fitch Solutions in London, acknowledged stronger GDP growth in the final quarter of 2024 but noted the full year's figures were lower than the central bank's target. BMI has projected a 3% GDP growth for 2025, bolstered by planned fiscal stimulus. Yet, slowdowns in the American and Chinese economies could pose challenges, potentially undermining Thailand's export momentum. As the Bank of Thailand grapples with these economic dynamics, a 25-basis-point rate cut seems increasingly probable, as suggested by BMI. Maybank highlights additional threats to the economic outlook, particularly the impact of potential US reciprocal tariffs. These tariffs could disrupt trade, postponing investment decisions and curbing consumer spending, notably in the private housing sector. Currently, Thailand imposes higher tariffs on US goods (avg. 6.2%) compared with what the US taxes Thai imports (approx. 0.85%). Donald Trump's proposed tariffs could hit Thai exports in meat, vegetables, electronics, and machinery sectors, potentially affecting more than half the goods Thailand sends to the US. In response to these looming challenges, experts suggest that both fiscal and monetary measures are necessary to steer the Thai economy back on track. The Bank of Thailand is expected to maintain the policy rate at 2.25% during their upcoming meeting on 26th February, while setting the stage for a potential rate cut of 25 basis points later in the year. This proactive approach aims to bolster investment and sustain economic momentum despite global uncertainties, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-19

Ice Cream Vendor Scammed with Fake 1,000 Baht Note Picture courtesy: Daily News An ice cream vendor in Ang Thong, Thailand was left devastated when a scammer altered a 100 baht note to resemble 1,000 baht, absconding with the change after a quick purchase. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352224-ice-cream-vendor-scammed-with-fake-1000-baht-note/

Picture courtesy: Daily News An ice cream vendor in Ang Thong, Thailand was left devastated when a scammer altered a 100 baht note to resemble 1,000 baht, absconding with the change after a quick purchase. On 19th February, social media buzzed with warnings for street vendors to stay vigilant after Mr. Witoon, a 41-year-old ice cream vendor, was duped in an elaborate scam. Mr. Witoon, who uses a motorcycle with a sidecar to sell coconut ice cream, was approached by a conman posing as a customer in Pho Thong district. The incident took place around midday on 16th February near Mae Nam Noi road. The scammer, a young, heavily tattooed man wearing a blue long-sleeved shirt, ordered 10 ice cream sandwiches for 100 baht, claiming they were for bridge construction workers nearby. He then presented what appeared to be a 1,000 baht note, only showing parts of it to Mr. Witoon. Believing it to be genuine, Mr. Witoon handed over 900 baht in change. It was only after the scammer sped away on a red Honda motorcycle that Mr. Witoon inspected the note, discovering it was a 100 baht bill altered with a pen to appear as a 1,000 baht note. Reflecting on the incident, Mr. Witoon expressed his anger and disappointment. “I earn my living selling ice cream daily, and this is the first time in over ten years I’ve faced such deception. For us street vendors, losing a day’s earnings is a big hit,” he said. He urged fellow vendors to meticulously check banknotes before giving change. The incident has been reported to the local Pho Thong police, who are reviewing CCTV footage to track down the perpetrator and bring him to justice, reported Daily News. -- 2025-02-19

Future Uncertain for Retiree Bank Accounts in Thailand AN composite for reference only ANALYSIS While most tourists in Thailand enjoy their holidays without needing a bank account, some are encountering difficulties when trying to open one. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352201-future-uncertain-for-retiree-bank-accounts-in-thailand/

Samui's Real Estate Draws Global Attention Amidst Phuket Boom Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Interest in Koh Samui’s property market is climbing as American and European buyers, deterred by rising prices in Phuket, seek more affordable alternatives. This shift has been partially caused by Russian and Chinese demand driving up villa costs in Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352220-samuis-real-estate-draws-global-attention-amidst-phuket-boom/

Picture courtesy: Wikipedia Interest in Koh Samui’s property market is climbing as American and European buyers, deterred by rising prices in Phuket, seek more affordable alternatives. This shift has been partially caused by Russian and Chinese demand driving up villa costs in Phuket. Phattarachai Taweewong of Colliers Thailand notes a marked increase in inquiries about Koh Samui villas. He attributes this trend to attractive pricing on the island, with villas costing about a third of similar properties in Phuket. The most sought-after areas on Samui include Choeng Mon and Lamai beaches, where land prices hover around 10 million Baht per rai (equivalent to about 305,000 USD). With a budget of 30-50 million Baht (roughly 915,000 to 1.5 million USD), buyers can secure a sea-view villa on Koh Samui with a spacious 400-square-metre living area on plots of 200 square wah. Conversely, this budget would only afford a non-sea-view villa in Phuket, typically offering 150-200 square metres on smaller 100-square-wah plots. Despite its appeal, Koh Samui faces a supply crunch. Over recent years, only five villa projects, comprising fewer than 100 units in total, have been introduced and sold out within a year. The limited supply is affected by land title deed issues, even as demand persists. Developers see potential; Phuket-based Supalai is planning a single-detached house project, while local Baansuay Group considers villa development in Koh Samui. Investors are also keen on acquiring Samui hotels, following the island's increased visibility from popular media such as The White Lotus series, which has buoyed hotel rates. Condos present another investment opportunity, particularly low-rise models, with limited supply and affordable prices ranging between 50,000 and 70,000 Baht per square metre (about 1,500 to 2,130 USD). Koh Samui is becoming increasingly attractive while Bangkok’s property market shows signs of cooling. Nevertheless, demand in Phuket remains strong, notably from Russian, Chinese, American, Australian, French, and Middle Eastern buyers. This interest has led to unprecedented peaks in both condo and villa supplies. In 2024, Phuket saw new launches reaching over 14,700 condo units and nearly 2,000 villas, marking a significant growth from the previous year. Such developments highlight the dynamic shifts within Thailand's property landscape, with Koh Samui emerging as a vibrant competitor to Phuket’s heated market, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-19

Thai Police Bust Massive Multi-Billion Baht Fraud Ring Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a major victory against international online fraud, Thai police have dismantled a sophisticated scam operation run by a Thai-Chinese gang that defrauded victims of billions of baht. The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) announced the arrests of ten suspects across Bangkok and other provinces. This culminated after extensive raids and investigations that began last week and concluded on Monday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352218-thai-police-bust-massive-multi-billion-baht-fraud-ring/