webfact

Pheu Thai Party defends ethics in political face-off by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Pheu Thai Party has firmly denied accusations of undermining ethical standards for political figures as outlined in the constitution. They claim they aim to clarify what constitutes grounds for prosecuting those in public office. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338856-pheu-thai-party-defends-ethics-in-political-face-off/

The Pheu Thai Party has firmly denied accusations of undermining ethical standards for political figures as outlined in the constitution. They claim they aim to clarify what constitutes grounds for prosecuting those in public office. Critics are raising alarms that the party’s push for a constitutional amendment to relax ethical conduct standards could pave the way for a power grab. Pheu Thai Secretary-General Sorawong Thienthong spoke out yesterday, September 22, revealing that discussions are underway with coalition partners to explain the proposed changes to politicians’ ethical standards. He firmly rejected claims that these moves would limit the court’s ability to handle such cases. “Our goal is to create a clearer framework around what defines an ethical breach by a politician.” He added that amendments relating to ethics would be tackled article by article, rather than rewriting the whole constitution. However, he acknowledged that any changes will hinge on support from Thailand's Parliament. “We need to discuss it with them [other parties] first.” Prominent figures from the coalition’s Bhumjaithai, United Thai Nation (UTN), and Democrat parties have publicly opposed any changes to the ethics clauses. Critics have branded the proposed amendments as self-serving, warning that they could lead to the government’s downfall. Serial petitioner Srisuwan Janya remarked that parties risk losing from the enforcement of current ethics laws, which explains their attempts to dilute them. He pointed out that several politicians are either facing prosecution or are at risk, suggesting that weakening these constitutional clauses presents a clear conflict of interest. Srisuwan also warned that the amendment could diminish the National Anti-Corruption Commission’s power to indict political postholders. Former red-shirt leader Jatuporn Prompan cautioned that the proposed changes would “loosen” restrictions on ethical standards and weaken the authority of the Constitutional Court, requiring two-thirds of nine judges instead of a simple majority to dismiss a cabinet minister on ethical grounds. He warned that Pheu Thai’s manoeuvres might provoke a backlash and provide an excuse for the military to stage a coup, Bangkok Post reported. by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-23

Tourist Police Arrest Indonesian Woman for Illegally Operating Tours On September 22, 2024, at the Tourist Police Bureau, Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Pueak-am, Commissioner-General of the Tourist Police Bureau, announced that, in line with the government’s policy, and the directive from Mr. Surawong Thienthong, Minister of Tourism and Sports, to crack down on illegal activities affecting the tourism industry, efforts were made to ensure tourist safety and confidence during the high season. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338855-tourist-police-arrest-indonesian-woman-for-illegally-operating-tours/

Crash course in chaos: 22-wheeled truck causes traffic jam by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post A 22-wheeled truck collided with 16 other vehicles yesterday, causing mayhem and gridlock on Kanchanaphisek Road in Samut Prakan’s Phra Pradaeng district. The chaos unfolded around 5pm, yesterday, September 22, on the Bang Phli-Suksawat stretch of the southern ring road, with rescue teams rushing to the scene after receiving frantic reports. The crash forced a complete closure of the road for about an hour as emergency services tended to the injured and police battled to clear the wreckage. The shocking incident created several kilometres of tailbacks, causing a nightmare for drivers heading towards Pak Nam and Bang Na. Thankfully, by 6.30pm, authorities managed to partially reopen the road, bringing some relief to those stuck in the massive traffic jam. A 51 year old eyewitness, Prasert Ketbung, whose vehicle was caught up in the carnage, described the scene as absolute chaos. “Traffic was already slowing down when suddenly the huge truck ploughed into several cars, pickup trucks, and even a gas truck.” Investigators are now probing the cause of this catastrophic accident to uncover what triggered the shocking multi-vehicle pile-up. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-23

On September 22, 2024, at the Tourist Police Bureau, Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Pueak-am, Commissioner-General of the Tourist Police Bureau, announced that, in line with the government’s policy, and the directive from Mr. Surawong Thienthong, Minister of Tourism and Sports, to crack down on illegal activities affecting the tourism industry, efforts were made to ensure tourist safety and confidence during the high season. Under the leadership of Mr. Chaturon Pakdeewanich, Director-General of the Department of Tourism, the TAT Investigation Division, Division 1, and the Tourist Police Bureau, along with the Indonesian Language Guide Association, conducted an investigation following complaints about illegal Indonesian tours. It was found that 133 Indonesian tourists had been brought to Thailand between September 19 and 22, 2024, without using a legally registered tour company. The investigation revealed sufficient evidence of several offenses, including operating an illegal tour business, acting as an unlicensed tour guide, and working without a permit. The target of the investigation, an Indonesian woman named Ms. Siwalee (real name withheld), was found leading a tour at Bangkok's Pat Pho (Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangklararm Ratchaworamahawihan). Upon further inspection, it was confirmed that the tour had not been organized through a licensed operator. Ms. Siwalee was charged with operating a tour business and acting as a tour guide without proper authorization. She was then taken to the Royal Palace Police Station for legal proceedings, reported Siam Rath. In this case, Tourist Police officers coordinated with interpreters from the Indonesian Language Guide Club and Tourist Police patrol officers to ensure the tourists' schedules were not disrupted, thereby maintaining confidence in the safety of tourists visiting Thailand during the high season. -- 2024-09-23

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Monday 23 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338849-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-monday-23-september-2024/

NEWS - 23-September.mp4 The Pheu Thai Party says it supports the casino-entertainment complex project, aiming to legalize underground gambling and boost tax revenue. They estimate casinos could generate over 50% of GDP, benefiting the economy, education, and other sectors. The so-called "fun economy," covering tourism, sports, entertainment, and MICE industries, is growing. A new bill proposes 30-year licenses for entertainment complexes, with entry restricted to those over 20. Foreign nationals would enter freely, while Thai citizens would pay a 5,000-baht fee. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has directed officials to quickly clear thick mud left by the floods in Chiang Rai, where about 68,000 tonnes of debris and garbage have accumulated. Air force planes transported supplies from Bangkok yesterday. The government plans to distribute financial aid to flood victims starting in November and will work to stabilize prices of essential goods. Residents near a Thai Plastic and Chemicals plant near Rayong were advised to avoid toxic smoke from a fire caused by a vinyl chloride gas leak yesterday afternoon. Locals were urged to stay indoors or wear masks. The carcinogenic smoke prompted evacuations within a three-kilometer radius. The fire and smoke were extinguished with no reported injuries. Locally: The Thailand open.. saw Twenty-seven-year-old Rebecca Sramkova win her first WTA title by beating Laura Siege-mund 6-4 6-4 In front of a packed stadium yesterday. Sramkova will be ranked inside the world's top 70 for the first time when the new WTA Rankings are released later today. Across the region Singapore McLaren's Lando Norris dominated the Singapore Grand Prix from start to finish winning the Formula 1 championship yesterday. Lewis Hamilton was the only front-runner to start on soft tyres, which forced him into the pits on lap 18. British - Thai driver Alex Alban's car suffered a technical failure ending his race. Todays Weather Rain across the north and north east Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy, rain 26C degrees celsius Bangkok: cloudy with thunder showers 32 Pattaya: cloudy thundershowers 31c Phuket and the south: cloudy with rain 30C Hua Hin: Bright, Cloudy with showers 30C AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-09-23 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5

Picture courtesy: Daily News Picture courtesy: Daily News

Iranian Man Arrested for Theft of Money From Russian Woman in Bangkok Picture courtesy: Daily News In a swift operation on September 22, Thung Maha Mek Police Station officers arrested Mr. Saber D., a 41-year-old Iranian national, on charges of nighttime theft. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338843-iranian-man-arrested-for-theft-of-money-from-russian-woman-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy: Daily News In a swift operation on September 22, Thung Maha Mek Police Station officers arrested Mr. Saber D., a 41-year-old Iranian national, on charges of nighttime theft. The arrest was executed at a luxury hotel in Bangkok's Sathon area, following an arrest warrant issued by the Bangkok South Criminal Court (No. 595/2567) on September 21. The incident dates back to September 15, when a Russian woman was robbed in front of a hotel on Bangkok's Silom Road. The suspect, described initially as an Arab man, approached the woman and asked to see the money in her purse. When she obliged, he took the money and fled the scene. Acting on this report, the investigation team from Thung Maha Mek Police Station swiftly identified Mr. Saber D. as the suspect. After gathering sufficient evidence, they secured an arrest warrant and located him at a hotel in the Sathon area. The arrest was made without incident. Picture courtesy: Daily News During questioning, Mr. Saber confessed to committing the theft, citing a need for money to cover daily expenses. He is now in police custody and will face further legal action as the investigation continues. The successful apprehension underscores the commitment of the Thai police to ensuring public safety and swiftly bringing offenders to justice. -- 2024-09-23

Suspected Drunk Drivers in Thailand to Face New Testing Methods File photo Thailand has introduced new regulations allowing police to use urine or blood tests to determine the alcohol levels of drivers suspected of being drunk if they refuse to take a breathalyser test. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338834-suspected-drunk-drivers-in-thailand-to-face-new-testing-methods/

File photo Thailand has introduced new regulations allowing police to use urine or blood tests to determine the alcohol levels of drivers suspected of being drunk if they refuse to take a breathalyser test. This announcement, published in the Royal Gazette, updates previous regulations from 1994 and 2017, which relied mainly on breathalyser tests. The revised laws aim to modernise alcohol testing procedures and enhance the effectiveness of legal measures to combat drunk driving. The regulation permits police officers to either collect urine samples on-site or escort drivers to a hospital for blood tests when breathalyser tests are refused. Officers are instructed to secure drivers' consent before conducting urine tests and to provide a private and secure location for the sample collection. They will also maintain control over the sample collection area to prevent any tampering. The collected urine samples will be sent to nearby hospitals for laboratory testing. For blood tests, drivers refusing breathalysers will be taken to a hospital for medical examination. According to the new regulation, drivers found with more than 50 milligrammes of alcohol in their blood—and 20 milligrammes for those under 20 years old—will be charged with drunk driving, reported Bangkok Post. Additionally, the law states that drivers refusing to undergo medical examinations without a valid reason will be presumed to have exceeded the legal blood alcohol limit. In such cases, the medical professional will document the refusal and notify the police to initiate further investigation. Earlier this year, the government approved an amendment to Thailand's Land Transportation Act, allowing alcohol level tests up to three hours after a driver has been stopped by police. Karom Polpornklang, the then-deputy spokesman for the government, noted that the amended law would expand the methods available to identify drunk drivers beyond the traditional use of breathalysers. -- 2024-09-23

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 23 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1338816-thailand-live-monday-23-september-2024/

Election Commissioners Face Removal Over Senatorial Election Fiasco Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a dramatic turn of events, all seven election commissioners could soon be ousted by the Constitutional Court for their alleged mishandling of the senatorial elections held a few months ago. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338815-election-commissioners-face-removal-over-senatorial-election-fiasco/

Anti-Cannabis Law Draft: Political Compromise, Not Moral Outrage FILE - Police stand guard as cannabis activists and entrepreneurs, holding cannabis plant gather in front of Government House in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, July 8, 2024. Two years after marijuana was decriminalized in Thailand, nearly a hundred of its advocates marched to the prime minister’s office Monday to protest a possible ban on general use. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) The recent draft law on cannabis, proposed by Thailand's health ministry, signifies a political compromise rather than a staunch moral stance. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338822-anti-cannabis-law-draft-political-compromise-not-moral-outrage /

FILE - Police stand guard as cannabis activists and entrepreneurs, holding cannabis plant gather in front of Government House in Bangkok, Thailand, Monday, July 8, 2024. Two years after marijuana was decriminalized in Thailand, nearly a hundred of its advocates marched to the prime minister’s office Monday to protest a possible ban on general use. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) The recent draft law on cannabis, proposed by Thailand's health ministry, signifies a political compromise rather than a staunch moral stance. The draft aims to limit cannabis use strictly to medical treatments, official research, and as an ingredient in food and herbal products. Severe penalties, including hefty fines and potential jail time, are outlined for deviations, but the specifics remain ambiguous. Notably, the draft omits any mention of recreational cannabis use. Critics argue that supporters of recreational cannabis will be blamed for jeopardising public safety, promoting traffic mishaps, and tarnishing Thailand’s family-friendly image. The government appears to be straddling both sides of the debate—endorsing a strict approach to drugs while leaving significant loopholes. Such legislative tactics are not unprecedented; Thailand's decades-old laws on prostitution, although stringent on paper, have not eradicated the practice, writes Barry Kenyon for Pattaya Mail. The silence on recreational cannabis is a hot topic among the country's 9,500 sales outlets, according to Weed Map. On Pattaya’s Walking Street, vendors like Khun Cherry sell Thai weed for about 100 baht (or 3 US dollars). Cherry believes future registrations might occur, but doubts the government will forsake the estimated 1 billion dollars in revenue from the cannabis industry. Thailand’s historical stance on drug laws has always been politically motivated. The 1979 Narcotics Act, which included up to 15 years of jail time, was partly a response to American servicemen and tourists smoking pot openly. Following the 2014 coup, the subsequent military government faced overcrowded prisons, prompting the decriminalisation of cannabis in 2022 and the release of thousands of inmates. Given that the 2022 decriminalisation lacked detailed legislation, the market has been largely unregulated. The current Pheu Thai-led administration, which campaigned against cannabis, now has to appease its coalition allies, particularly Anutin Charnvirakul of the Bhumjaithai party, which is the second-largest in the coalition. Anutin aims to protect his rural constituents who benefit economically from cannabis cultivation. The draft law will be discussed until the end of the month. A spokesperson for the Cannabis Future Network expressed doubt that recreational cannabis would be formally outlawed, suggesting that ganja shops might need to re-register as pharmacies or customers might sign declarations stating their medical use. This could reduce the number of outlets while ensuring tourist areas and larger shops remain operational. As the Roman poet Juvenal once queried: “Who is watching the watchers?” -- 2024-09-23

At around 12:00 on September 22, a fire erupted at an industrial factory located in the Map Ta Phut district of Rayong. The fire caused a lot of black toxic smoke to draft across the area. Fire Breaks Out at Industrial Factory in Map Ta Phut, Rayong Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1338809-fire-breaks-out-at-industrial-factory-in-map-ta-phut-rayong/

In a dramatic turn of events, all seven election commissioners could soon be ousted by the Constitutional Court for their alleged mishandling of the senatorial elections held a few months ago. The commissioners are accused of failing to ensure a transparent and fair election process, particularly casting a shadow over the contested election in Songkhla. If the Supreme Court, expected to deliver a ruling shortly, deems the Songkhla election null and void, this could have sweeping consequences. The entire election for the 200 Senate seats nationwide may also be declared invalid. This scenario would necessitate re-elections across all districts and provinces, an informed source disclosed today. The controversial election featured a unique three-tier vote system conducted among contestants rather than through direct constituent voting. Allegations have surfaced that this system was rife with electoral rigging, allegedly manipulated by undisclosed elements tied to Bhumjaithai, the country’s second-largest coalition partner. Many of the senators elected, including Senate Speaker Mongkol Surasajja, are suspected to have operated under the influence of the Bhumjaithai Party. The party, which is significantly influenced by its de facto leader, Newin Chidchob, allegedly played a covert role in affecting the election’s outcome. The potential removal of all seven election commissioners and the possible call for nation-wide re-elections mark an unprecedented chapter in the nation’s democratic processes. The unfolding drama has put the integrity of the electoral system under the microscope, raising critical questions about the transparency and fairness of future elections, reported Thai Newsroom. This situation continues to evolve, with the Thailand Supreme Court’s ruling expected to be the next significant development. TOP Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-09-23

Picture courtesy: Naew Na Picture courtesy: Naew Na

Chalong Police urge motorists to reclaim lost licence plates by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Chalong Police have called for motorists who lost their licence plates while navigating floodwaters this week to get in touch, as several plates have been handed in. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338735-chalong-police-urge-motorists-to-reclaim-lost-licence-plates/

Chalong Police have called for motorists who lost their licence plates while navigating floodwaters this week to get in touch, as several plates have been handed in. Heavy downpours on Monday resulted in flash floods across multiple areas of Chalong, causing significant difficulties for drivers on both Chao Fa East and Chao Fa West roads. The rising waters led to many vehicles losing their licence plates. Photographs posted by Chalong Police show a collection of recovered licence plates from various locations, including Phuket, Bangkok, and Phitsanulok. These images were shared in an online notice released yesterday to assist motorists in reclaiming their lost plates. “Motorists can check for their lost licence plates at Chalong Police Station. We will continue to update if more plates are handed in.” Motorists affected by the recent flooding can contact Chalong Police Station directly at 076-381247. Additionally, they can reach out via the station’s Facebook page or through the official website for further information, reported Phuket News. In related news, Phuket has been placed on 24-hour alert as heavy rainstorms drenched the island on Tuesday, September 17. Officials urged residents to stay vigilant for potential flash floods, mudslides, and strong winds. On September 15, the Phuket Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office (DDPM Phuket) issued a notice, authorised by Governor Sophon Suwannarat, advising the public to brace for severe weather conditions. The notice highlighted the risk of flash floods, floodwaters, and mudslides, urging residents to remain cautious and stay informed. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket News Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-21

Krabi mother scammed twice while trying to bail out son by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A mother from Krabi has been left devastated after being scammed twice while trying to secure bail for her son, costing her 100,000 baht and leaving her in debt. Her son remains in prison and she is pleading for help. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338731-krabi-mother-scammed-twice-while-trying-to-bail-out-son/

A mother from Krabi has been left devastated after being scammed twice while trying to secure bail for her son, costing her 100,000 baht and leaving her in debt. Her son remains in prison and she is pleading for help. Lawyer Vichupan Chitpakdi, accompanied by 45 year old Boonta, approached reporters at 5pm yesterday, September 19, in Nonthaburi to report that a woman named Rung had deceived her by claiming she could facilitate her son’s bail. Boonta’s 19 year old son, Teppan, was arrested on January 8 for opening a mule account while at his girlfriend’s house in Surat Thani. He was taken into custody by the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) and transferred to Bangkok for further legal proceedings, where he remains in Ratchada Criminal Court’s custody. Boonta explained that her son had been tricked into opening the account while looking for a job at a restaurant in Phuket. The scammer promised to pay him through this new bank account. However, instead of securing employment, her son ended up being implicated in criminal activities. In February, 35 year old Rung befriended Boonta and claimed she had connections with influential figures and politicians. Rung promised that these connections could help secure her son’s bail and mitigate the charges but required a fee of 125,000 baht—100,000 baht for the influential figures and 25,000 baht for the TCSD officers. Desperate to free her son, Boonta borrowed money at exorbitant interest rates of 10% to 20%, managing to gather 98,000 baht. She handed the money to Rung, hoping it would expedite her son’s release. However, in July, when they went to Ratchada Criminal Court to process the bail, they were informed that the investigation officer opposed the bail request. This raised Boonta’s suspicions, and upon questioning, Rung began to evade her queries. Boonta continued to demand the return of her money from Rung, who kept assuring her that the bail process was still underway. Eventually, Rung became unresponsive, and despite Boonta’s persistent efforts, her son has yet to be granted bail. Previous scam Adding to her distress, Boonta revealed that she had previously been deceived by another lawyer who promised to help with her son’s bail for a fee of 10,000 baht. After paying the money, she discovered that no lawyer had ever contacted her son regarding the bail, realising she had been scammed for the first time. Through tears, Boonta shared her hardships, stating that she earns a daily wage of 150 baht through odd jobs, while her husband suffers from heart disease and has undergone two surgeries, with another still needed. She expressed her deep sorrow over her son’s imprisonment and the additional burden of being cheated. She appealed to Rung to return her money due to her significant debt. Lawyer Vichupan explained that Rung’s fraudulent activities involved falsely claiming connections with influential figures, including his name, which he was unaware of until August 22. On that day, Boonta visited her son in prison and revealed she had paid 98,000 baht, believing in the influential names Rung had mentioned. Vichupan further stated that Rung continues to solicit donations under the pretence of using the funds to support individuals filing complaints against political parties. However, investigations into the donation funds and bank statements revealed discrepancies, indicating personal misuse of the money. Rung’s actions may violate the Public Solicitation Act and constitute fraud. Regarding taking legal action, Vichupan advised Boonta against filing a police report, fearing injustice and delays due to Rung’s connections with influential people. Instead, they have gathered all evidence to directly file a lawsuit in court through the lawyer’s authority, reported KhaoSod. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-21

Dr. Seri Warns of Flood Risks from Storm Soulik: Over 70% Severity Predicted On September 20, 2024, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Seri Supratid, Director of the Climate Change and Disaster Center at Rangsit University and Vice President of the National Disaster Warning Council Foundation, shared an urgent flood risk update on Facebook regarding "Storm Soulik." Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1338725-dr-seri-warns-of-flood-risks-from-storm-soulik-over-70-severity-predicted/