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File photo courtesy of Wikipedia In the heart of Thailand's vibrant restaurant and nightlife industry, a chorus of concerned voices is pleading with the government to suspend the burdensome 5% excise tax. This tax, they argue, is an impediment at a time when economic sluggishness already has them on shaky ground. The appeal, delivered on Tuesday, seeks a temporary reprieve from the excise duty that venues operating past midnight—such as bars and restaurants—must shoulder. This initiative emerges from the united front of six key associations, including the Night Restaurant Business Trade Association and the Khao San Road Business Association, as articulated by spokesperson Yani Loeiwanitcharoen. These businesses claim the weight of the tax is exaggerated when their net profits frequently linger beneath 10%. Once the tax trickles down to the consumers, it can stifle patronage, shading prospects with economic gloom. They point out that alcoholic goods already contend with identical taxes, not to mention the layered burden from income tax and value-added tax (VAT). The sector representatives describe a landscape where operating costs are climbing as revenues dwindle, leaving many teetering on the edge of closure. The reality, as they paint it, sees more establishments precariously positioning for shutdowns if relief eludes them. Economic symptoms troubling the broader Thai economy aren't lost here, as Sanga Ruangwattanakul of the Khao San Road Business Association highlights. He observes declines manifesting through notable company closures and widespread layoffs—a damper on consumer spending spiralling down to affect restaurants and nightspots. Such conditions have businesses scrambling to manage labour expenses and rent, with some even resorting to loans merely to sustain operations. In advocating for the tax suspension, Mr. Sanga proposed it would dovetail effectively with government efforts to revive the economy and enhance Thailand's allure as a tourist destination. Stimulus measures could offer a lifeline, fostering a hospitable climate for both local businesses and international visitors bringing vital economic exchanges. As these associations await governmental response, the scene underscores a critical moment: increasingly stark choices loom and potential ripple effects from inaction threaten broader socio-economic landscapes. The call for tax relief stands not just as an immediate economic question but as a tendency towards shaping Thailand's future market dynamics, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-22

Nationwide Police Raids in Thailand Nab Hundreds, Seize Weapons Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post A sweeping crackdown on crime across Thailand led to more than 200 arrests on Friday, as police targeted influential criminals and hitmen. This major operation, conducted in one day, underscored the commitment of Thai authorities to tackling the nation's organised crime. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355400-nationwide-police-raids-in-thailand-nab-hundreds-seize-weapons/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post A sweeping crackdown on crime across Thailand led to more than 200 arrests on Friday, as police targeted influential criminals and hitmen. This major operation, conducted in one day, underscored the commitment of Thai authorities to tackling the nation's organised crime. Nearly 4,000 officers from various law enforcement bodies, including the Central Investigation Bureau, the Metropolitan Police Bureau, and Provincial Police Regions 1-9, carried out searches at 667 locations countrywide. In the raids, law enforcement arrested 218 suspects and seized an arsenal of weaponry, including 239 guns—comprising 109 pistols, 76 homemade firearms, 52 rifles, and two war-grade weapons. According to Pol Lt Gen Akkaradej Pimolsri, an assistant national police chief, the operation also netted 5,314 bullets of varying calibres, 16 other munition items, nine explosives, 16,161 speed pills, and 108 grams of crystal methamphetamine. This substantial haul highlights the scale of illegal arms and drugs within the country. One of the raids, focused on an influential criminal named Theerawat Arunchot, also known as "Noom Bang Non," resulted in a deadly gunfight. Police surrounded Theerawat's residence in Ranong as they prepared to execute an existing arrest warrant against him for drug offences. However, when the suspect refused to surrender and began firing at officers, the police were forced to return fire in self-defence. During the attempted escape, Theerawat was shot and later pronounced dead in a hospital. A subsequent search of his property uncovered an additional 400 speed pills. Pol Maj Gen Pornchai Khachonklin, deputy commissioner of the Provincial Police Region 8, explained that the suspect had been heavily involved in drug trafficking, emphasising the ongoing battle between Thai authorities and narcotic syndicates. This comprehensive crackdown highlights the Thai police's heightened efforts to dismantle criminal networks and reduce widespread illicit activities. The substantial number of arrests and extensive collection of firearms not only represent a significant success for law enforcement but also a clear message to those engaged in illegal operations. As this story unfolds, the Thai authorities' actions are expected to have a long-term impact on the nation's crime landscape, providing a measure of security and reassurance to citizens. With the law enforcement agencies' resolve and determination clearly on display, Thailand hopes for a safer and more orderly society. This sweeping operation may well serve as a deterrent to those operating outside the law, showing the international community the country's seriousness in addressing crime. As these developments continue to ripple through the local and global communities, many are watching closely, hopeful for sustained momentum in Thailand’s fight against crime, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-22

German Attacker of Dentists in Korat Found Dead with Slashed Neck Picture courtesy of Komchadluek A 41-year-old German national, recently involved in a series of violent outbursts against dentists in Korat, has been found dead, prompting police to investigate potential suicide or murder. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355385-german-attacker-of-dentists-in-korat-found-dead-with-slashed-neck/

Picture courtesy of Komchadluek A 41-year-old German national, recently involved in a series of violent outbursts against dentists in Korat, has been found dead, prompting police to investigate potential suicide or murder. The man, known as Mr. Matthias, lived in Non Sung, Nakhon Ratchasima, with his Thai wife. Reports indicate he had been acting erratically, including damaging property in dental clinics and attacking female dentists by headbutting walls and biting their lips since November 2024. His online threats further alarmed local dental professionals, with incidents reported across several clinics. On 21st March 2025, at 17:20, police discovered Mr. Matthias’s body at his residence in Don Chomphu, Non Sung. The scene revealed extensive disorder, with a large, two-inch neck wound and two aggressive Rottweilers found guarding the area. Animal control was summoned to manage the dogs. Initial inquiries from witnesses revealed that Mr. Matthias’s wife, who was working in Prachin Buri, became concerned when she couldn't reach her husband. She contacted a friend who found Mr. Matthias deceased on his bed. Authorities are currently reviewing CCTV footage from the house and surrounding areas to ascertain the cause of death. Previously, Mr. Matthias had been apprehended on charges of trespass, assault, and causing property damage under an arrest warrant issued by Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Court. After a court appearance on 19th March 2025, he was granted bail and returned to his home in Non Sung. Police intended to request the Immigration Bureau to revoke Mr. Matthias’s visa due to his dangerous behaviour. However, his death has preceded any action. Police continue to pursue two lines of inquiry: whether the death was by suicide or foul play. Further updates are anticipated as investigations progress, reported Komchadluek. -- 2025-03-22

Phuket Car Drama: Foreign Man Accused Amid Mixed Reactions Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A recent incident in Phuket has grabbed attention as a Thai woman alleged that a foreign man deliberately damaged her car. Yesterday, this dramatic episode unfolded, with the woman claiming the man carried out the assault on her vehicle unprovoked. Seeking justice, she turned to Facebook’s Phuket Times to share her story widely. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355368-phuket-car-drama-foreign-man-accused-amid-mixed-reactions/

Freak Accident: Lithuanian Tourist Killed by Falling Tree in Phuket Picture of the accident scene courtesy of Phuket News A Lithuanian man's idyllic holiday turned tragic on Phuket's scenic Nai Thon Beach Road when he was struck and killed by a falling tree while riding his motorbike on March 20th. The victim, Arijus Norkus, a 42-year-old, was travelling along the road when a large pine branch suddenly descended, resulting in his instantaneous death. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355317-freak-accident-lithuanian-tourist-killed-by-falling-tree-in-phuket/

Thai Police in Liverpool Jerseys Nab Newcastle-Sporting Dealer Picture courtesy of Khaosod In an amusing twist of fate, Krabi police officers donned Liverpool football jerseys to arrest a suspected drug dealer sportily clad in a Newcastle United kit yesterday. The arrest comes in the wake of the recent Carabao Cup final, where Newcastle triumphed over Liverpool with a 2-1 victory. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355360-thai-police-in-liverpool-jerseys-nab-newcastle-sporting-dealer/

to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 22 March 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1355353-thailand-live-saturday-22-march-2025/

Chiang Rai Monk Faces Scrutiny After Hugging Foreign Woman Photo via TikTok/ @gina.warinthorn CHIANG RAI, THAILAND – Police in Chiang Rai are actively searching for a Buddhist monk who was seen embracing a foreign woman, reportedly from France, at a bus terminal. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355316-chiang-rai-monk-faces-scrutiny-after-hugging-foreign-woman/

Phuket Car Drama: Foreign Man Accused Amid Mixed Reactions Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A recent incident in Phuket has grabbed attention as a Thai woman alleged that a foreign man deliberately damaged her car. Yesterday, this dramatic episode unfolded, with the woman claiming the man carried out the assault on her vehicle unprovoked. Seeking justice, she turned to Facebook’s Phuket Times to share her story widely. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355368-phuket-car-drama-foreign-man-accused-amid-mixed-reactions/

Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ A recent incident in Phuket has grabbed attention as a Thai woman alleged that a foreign man deliberately damaged her car. Yesterday, this dramatic episode unfolded, with the woman claiming the man carried out the assault on her vehicle unprovoked. Seeking justice, she turned to Facebook’s Phuket Times to share her story widely. Accompanying her claims, she posted dashcam footage capturing the sequence. In it, a foreign man clad in a black shirt and jeans is seen rapidly approaching her vehicle. He strikes the car multiple times, demanding her attention, shouting, "Open, open! I tell you to come inside. I messaged you to come inside. Come! Come here! Do the job, motherfucker!" The footage was dated March 20, though the story has emerged in the public eye today, March 21. The incident has since ignited a divide among viewers. On one hand, many Thai netizens criticised the man’s behaviour, labelling it aggressive and inappropriate. Their comments have even touched on wider tourism concerns, questioning the merits of the visa-free scheme, which some believe is bringing in less desirable tourists. However, contrary opinions have also surfaced, as certain commenters sympathised with the foreign man’s actions. They propose a different narrative: the woman might have been an app-based taxi driver who failed to fulfil her passenger's request. Speculation suggests the man could have been frustrated if, after booking a ride, his request for a pick-up directly from within his accommodation went ignored. Given his exclamation, “Do the job, motherfucker!”, such a scenario seems plausible to some. This interpretation has yet to be confirmed, with neither the woman nor Phuket Times elaborating on the event’s deeper context. Meanwhile, discussions rage on, taking various stances on the event’s true nature. Interestingly, this is not an isolated incident in Phuket. Previous reports include a case from August last year where, during a road altercation, a foreigner damaged the rear of a local woman's car. Additionally, a similar case transpired in Udon Thani’s Isaan province, where a foreign man shattered a Laotian man’s vehicle window in a physical confrontation. As details remain sparse, many await further clarification of this latest episode, which continues to unfold amidst a mixed backdrop of public opinion and past precedents. This unfolding saga reflects broader sentiments and challenges related to tourism and social interactions in Thailand, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-21

Thailand Prepares for Bold Rate Cuts to Spur Economic Recovery Bank of Thailand. File photo Faced with a lacklustre economic outlook, the Bank of Thailand is poised to launch an aggressive series of interest rate cuts, potentially the most drastic in Southeast Asia. Analysts suggest that these cuts will be essential to counteract the country's sluggish recovery from the pandemic and increasing global trade tensions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355326-thailand-prepares-for-bold-rate-cuts-to-spur-economic-recovery/

Thai Police in Liverpool Jerseys Nab Newcastle-Sporting Dealer Picture courtesy of Khaosod In an amusing twist of fate, Krabi police officers donned Liverpool football jerseys to arrest a suspected drug dealer sportily clad in a Newcastle United kit yesterday. The arrest comes in the wake of the recent Carabao Cup final, where Newcastle triumphed over Liverpool with a 2-1 victory, thanks to goals from Dan Burn and Alexander Isak - a defeat that clearly did not sit well with the Liverpool-supporting officers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355360-thai-police-in-liverpool-jerseys-nab-newcastle-sporting-dealer/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod In an amusing twist of fate, Krabi police officers donned Liverpool football jerseys to arrest a suspected drug dealer sportily clad in a Newcastle United kit yesterday. The arrest comes in the wake of the recent Carabao Cup final, where Newcastle triumphed over Liverpool with a 2-1 victory, thanks to goals from Dan Burn and Alexander Isak - a defeat that clearly did not sit well with the Liverpool-supporting officers. The man in the spotlight, Apichat, known locally as Bang Ann, was apprehended while wearing his Newcastle shirt. The arrest unfolded on March 20, in a sting operation conducted by Krabi’s law enforcement that underscored irony and sporting rivalry. Apichat, a 33-year-old fried meatball vendor, was ensnared by local police on charges of drug trafficking. He was found with 600 methamphetamine tablets, a haul discovered during the dramatic arrest. Orchestrating the operation was Preecha Saingthong, the district chief of Mueang Krabi, alongside security head Viratdech Boonruangkhaw and officer Chaiwat Thonghem. Their team managed to infiltrate Apichat's illegal dealings, which were allegedly masqueraded behind his legitimate fried meatball business in Ao Nang. Intelligence had earlier tipped the authorities off about Apichat's illegal side hustle, prompting a meticulously planned sting. The operation involved setting up an undercover purchase of three bags of meth, each containing 200 pills, costing around 9,000 Thai Baht. The arrest occurred at a discreet location in the Mueang subdistrict, where police revealed their true identities during the transaction, catching Apichat red-handed with the narcotics. The charges levelled against Apichat are severe, involving the possession and intent to distribute category 1 narcotics. He now faces the full force of the law as his case progresses through the judicial system. This arrest, topped with a veneer of sporting rivalry, adds a memorable chapter to Krabi's crime-cracking efforts. The incident blends the worlds of football and law enforcement in a moment of irony, with Liverpool jerseys standing as symbolic avengers of a recent sporting loss. As Apichat's legal proceedings continue, local authorities reaffirm their commitment to maintaining law and order with creativity and effectiveness. Meanwhile, Liverpool fans eagerly await their team’s next opportunities for redemption in the Premier League, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-21

Alleged Assault on 12-Year-Old Stirs Rayong Community Picture via Channel 7 In the quiet province of Rayong, Thailand, a troubling event unfolded as a 39-year-old woman allegedly assaulted a friend's 12-year-old daughter. The harrowing incident occurred in Pluak Daeng district, drawing significant public attention and outrage following its circulation across Thai media platforms. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355359-alleged-assault-on-12-year-old-stirs-rayong-community/

Picture via Channel 7 In the quiet province of Rayong, Thailand, a troubling event unfolded as a 39-year-old woman allegedly assaulted a friend's 12-year-old daughter. The harrowing incident occurred in Pluak Daeng district, drawing significant public attention and outrage following its circulation across Thai media platforms. According to reports, the attacker, motivated by anger, confronted the young girl outside her friend’s home. The woman believed the victim was a negative influence on her own daughter, accusing her of encouraging unsupervised outings. Video footage relentlessly captured the scene, showing the woman berating the girl and physically attacking her, leaving bruises and wounds on her body. Witnesses recounted the dramatic escalation, with a man in a dark blue T-shirt, identified as a friend of the aggressor, further chastising the attacker’s daughter instead of defusing the situation. The episode climaxed when the woman attempted to lash out at another boy present but refrained last minute before turning her frustration towards her daughter. In a deeply emotional response, the victim’s mother spoke with various news outlets, voicing her disbelief and anger. "Would she accept such treatment if it were her daughter?" the distraught mother posed, expressing her determination to hold the attacker accountable. Despite an apology call from the aggressor, claiming loss of control due to anger, the mother is unequivocal in her stance against any settlement or compromise. The victim herself recounted the unsettling encounter. She clarified that her presence at the gathering was innocent and that she neither initiated nor encouraged the attacker’s daughter to join. Her efforts to explain during the ordeal were tragically ignored. As the story develops, the assailant has publicly expressed remorse through the media outlet Naewna, stating intentions to apologise formally to the victim’s family. Meanwhile, the community awaits further legal action and resolution, with the case underscoring the complexities and deep emotions surrounding such volatile incidents. In a region where community ties run deep, this incident not only stirs emotional discourse but also highlights broader social issues concerning parental concerns and societal expectations. While an apology has been extended, observers note the need for justice and healing as paramount, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-21

Freak Accident: Lithuanian Tourist Killed by Falling Tree in Phuket Picture of the accident scene courtesy of Phuket News A Lithuanian man's idyllic holiday turned tragic on Phuket's scenic Nai Thon Beach Road when he was struck and killed by a falling tree while riding his motorbike on March 20th. The victim, Arijus Norkus, a 42-year-old, was travelling along the road when a large pine branch suddenly descended, resulting in his instantaneous death. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355317-freak-accident-lithuanian-tourist-killed-by-falling-tree-in-phuket/

Chiang Rai Monk Faces Scrutiny After Hugging Foreign Woman Photo via TikTok/ @gina.warinthorn CHIANG RAI, THAILAND – Police in Chiang Rai are actively searching for a Buddhist monk who was seen embracing a foreign woman, reportedly from France, at a bus terminal. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355316-chiang-rai-monk-faces-scrutiny-after-hugging-foreign-woman/

Photo via TikTok/ @gina.warinthorn CHIANG RAI, THAILAND – Police in Chiang Rai are actively searching for a Buddhist monk who was seen embracing a foreign woman, reportedly from France, at a bus terminal. A video, originally shared by a Thai TikTok user @gina.warinthorn, shows the monk seated with the woman on a bench, where they were reportedly hugging, stirring debate over propriety and cultural norms. The incident took place at Mae Kha Jarn Bus Terminal, where passengers, including the TikToker, were taking a break en route from Chiang Rai to Chiang Mai. The video sparked a flurry of comments from the Thai online community. The user noted in her post that the day was particularly cold, and the monk allegedly offered his robe to the woman. Despite the weather, the act crossed a line, breaching the monastic code that prohibits physical contact with women. Eyewitness accounts describe an awkward exchange: the foreign woman attempted to return the monk’s robe, but he insisted she retain it. Further complicating the matter, the monk tried to take back a long-sleeved shirt from her—a gesture met with an awkward smile. While much of the public empathised with the foreign woman, suggesting she likely didn’t understand Buddhist customs, they criticised the monk for his indiscretion. There are allegations that he might have been under the influence of alcohol or possibly an impostor. Following the release of the footage, the abbot of a nearby temple, along with police from Mae Chedi Station, visited the site for further investigation. Witnesses at the bus terminal reported the monk often appeared intoxicated. However, this was the first instance where his actions starkly violated monastic discipline by physically engaging with a woman. Photo via Facebook/ เป็นข่าว The investigation remains open. The monk left his possessions behind on a bench—items including his alms bowl, a pillow, food offerings, a bag, and robes—before departing for Chiang Mai by bus later that day. Witnesses noted he arrived at the terminal via a local's pickup truck. Local vendors and terminal workers recounted seeing the monk leave, adding fuel to speculation regarding his true identity. The abbot voiced concerns about the adverse impact of the monk’s actions, fearing potential damage to the revered image of Thai monastic life and urging for the monk's expulsion from the order. As authorities continue their inquiry, the incident serves as a cautionary note about cultural misunderstandings and the responsibilities of those upholding religious tenets, reported The Thaiger.. -- 2025-03-21

Picture of the accident scene courtesy of Phuket News A Lithuanian man's idyllic holiday turned tragic on Phuket's scenic Nai Thon Beach Road when he was struck and killed by a falling tree while riding his motorbike on March 20th. The victim, Arijus Norkus, a 42-year-old, was travelling along the road when a large pine branch suddenly descended, resulting in his instantaneous death. The incident sent shockwaves through the usually peaceful area, as described by local village headman, Thanapong Keonun, who alerted emergency services at approximately 11:30 am. Upon arriving quickly at the scene, authorities discovered Norkus near his damaged helmet and ruined motorbike. Another tourist, who happened to be riding a grey Honda ADV motorcycle on the same stretch, had a closer brush with fate; his bike suffered damage, but he remained unharmed. "It could have been anyone," a stunned witness reflected, underscoring the randomness of the tragic event. While forensic teams meticulously documented the accident scene, Norkus's body was transported to Vachira Phuket Hospital for further examinations. Meanwhile, investigations continue into how such a freak accident occurred, according to reports from The Thaiger. This latest tragedy comes on the heels of another heart-wrenching incident involving a British tourist. His much-anticipated holiday in Phuket turned into a nightmare following a serious accident that has left him in a precarious condition in a Thai hospital. The British victim, identified as restauranteur Ricky Eury, was struck by a Russian tourist riding a motorcycle while he was crossing a road on the bustling island. The collision, involving Sergei Medvedev and his wife Svetlana, who were subsequently arrested, inflicted severe injuries on the 39-year-old from Bristol, including multiple skull fractures and brain bleeding. -- 2025-03-21

Bank of Thailand. File photo Faced with a lacklustre economic outlook, the Bank of Thailand is poised to launch an aggressive series of interest rate cuts, potentially the most drastic in Southeast Asia. Analysts suggest that these cuts will be essential to counteract the country's sluggish recovery from the pandemic and increasing global trade tensions. According to Nomura Holdings, the central bank may need to implement up to 100 basis points of rate cuts over the next year, while Bank of America predicts a reduction of 75 basis points by 2026. Such moves would see Thailand leading the region in aggressive monetary easing. Nomura's economist Charnon Boonnuch has highlighted Thailand's vulnerability to increasing global trade protectionism, with a particular focus on the ongoing trade disputes spearheaded by the United States and fading tourism revenues. Historically, the Bank of Thailand (BoT) has resisted such measures, holding interest rates steady despite political pressures. Recent signals, however, suggest a shift towards accommodating economic stimulus through rate cuts. The central bank's hesitance has not gone unnoticed, with baht swaps reflecting an expectation for further easing, alongside a notably dovish tone in their February meeting minutes. Thailand, Southeast Asia's second-largest economy, faces myriad challenges, including an ailing manufacturing sector, elevated household debt, and stagnating consumption. With a GDP growth averaging below 2% over the past decade, the BoT's actions have been under scrutiny. Last year's surprise rate cuts in October and February marked a change in stance, but a full easing cycle is yet to be decisively undertaken. The ongoing trade war exacerbates the situation, particularly with US tariffs possibly dampening Thailand's export sector and increasing competition from Chinese imports. The BoT estimates that these global tensions could slash up to 0.5% from the GDP growth projection, which is slightly above 2.5% for this year. Domestically, the aftermath of the pandemic persists, with households and small businesses grappling with unmanageable debt. Current government measures, including cash handouts, have had limited effectiveness in boosting economic activity. To combat these issues, the Thai government and central bank have introduced measures aimed at bolstering the economy. These include relaxing mortgage regulations and addressing non-performing consumer loans. However, many argue that lowering rates further, ideally to as low as 1%, would provide broader economic relief. Given the government's limited fiscal space—with public debt hovering around 64% of GDP—there is a palpable need for the BoT to engage in substantial rate cuts soon. This move could help alleviate structural constraints that have long hampered Thai economic growth, where previous policies have often emphasised short-term consumption rather than long-term structural reform, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-21

Shift Entertainment Complexes to Reduce Overtourism: THA File photo courtesy of Amarin TV In a move aimed at alleviating overtourism in Thailand's bustling major destinations, Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun, president of the Thai Hotels Association (THA), advocated on Wednesday for the development of entertainment complexes in secondary cities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355278-shift-entertainment-complexes-to-reduce-overtourism-tha/

Indian Tourist Attacked After Dispute Over Payment Picture courtesy of CH7 news An Indian tourist was attacked after refusing to pay a Thai woman for services, leading to a violent confrontation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355307-indian-tourist-attacked-after-dispute-over-payment/

Picture courtesy of CH7 news An Indian tourist was attacked after refusing to pay a Thai woman for services, leading to a violent confrontation. In the early hours of 21st March 2025, police in Pattaya responded to an incident involving a foreign tourist assaulted with a beer bottle and robbed of 10,000 baht. The incident occurred at a rented house on Soi Kromtheedin, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi. Upon arrival, authorities found evidence of a struggle, including bloodstains and scattered glass from a beer bottle. The victim, identified as Mr. Neeraj Sarawgi, 40, from India, suffered injuries needing hospital treatment. According to Mr. Sarawgi, he and two friends had rented the house for a four-day vacation in Pattaya. After visiting Walking Street, four Thai women followed them back to their accommodation, demanding 6,000 baht. When Mr. Sarawgi handed over 4,000 baht, dissatisfaction led to the women using a beer bottle to assault him. Fearing for their safety, his friend paid an additional 10,000 baht, after which the women fled. Police have initiated an investigation, reviewing CCTV footage to trace the assailants. However, there are suspicions about the account, as Mr. Sarawgi initially requested only hospital help, suggesting the altercation may have involved a transaction dispute, reported CH7 news. -- 2025-03-21