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Sondhi and Jatuporn Join Forces Against Thaksin's Legacy Picture courtesy of Facebook คาราโอเกะชั้นใต้ดิน Former major protest leaders Sondhi Limthongkul and Jatuporn Prompan – who were once on opposite sides regarding former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra – made a public show of unity in their efforts to target the father of Thailand's current prime minister. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361761-sondhi-and-jatuporn-join-forces-against-thaksins-legacy/

Picture courtesy of Facebook คาราโอเกะชั้นใต้ดิน Former major protest leaders Sondhi Limthongkul and Jatuporn Prompan – who were once on opposite sides regarding former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra – made a public show of unity in their efforts to target the father of Thailand's current prime minister. In 2005, Mr Sondhi used his ASTV satellite television channel to launch a public crusade against Thaksin. He became a leader of the yellow-shirt People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) movement, which mobilised tens of thousands of protesters against Thaksin’s government in mid-2006. On Sept 19, 2006, then army chief Gen Sonthi Boonyaratglin staged a coup and seized power from Thaksin. Jatuporn Prompan, leader of the People’s Unity Group, is a former leader of the red-shirt United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD) and a key political ally of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, now led by Thaksin’s daughter and Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Sondhi and Jatuporn appeared together and confirmed their partnership at the former’s discussion event at Thammasat University in Bangkok on Sunday. Jatuporn was not what he used to be and he suffered from what he used to believe, Sondhi said. Jatuporn had worked for Thaksin but at present was fighting against Thaksin and ready to work for the public interest, Mr Sondhi said. He said he invited Jatuporn to support his movement. Mr Sondhi earlier threatened to hold street protests unless the government scraps the 2001 memorandum of understanding (MoU) on maritime claims in the Gulf of Thailand. He previously said the MoU had created an overlapping claims area (OCA) covering 26,000 square kilometres, mainly benefiting Cambodia. The OCA is believed to be rich in fossil energy resources. Signed with Cambodia during the Thaksin Shinawatra administration, the MoU allowed Cambodia to draw the boundary of its territorial waters within Thai maritime territory as declared by King Rama IX in 1973, based on international law, Mr Sondhi said. Critics worry a loss of sovereignty will result. On Sunday Mr Jatuporn said Thaksin had admitted to law violations but had not been imprisoned for a single day. People were opposing Thaksin due to the issues of privileges and double standards, he said. It was time for the country to make a restart while adhering to the strength of its main institutions and its people, Mr Jatuporn said. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-26

AI Surveillance Leads to Arrests in Thailand's Tourist Zones File photo courtesy of Pixabay Tourism police in Thailand have embraced cutting-edge technology, deploying AI-driven surveillance cameras at tourist hot spots, leading to the arrest of nearly 200 individuals with pending charges since July 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361758-ai-surveillance-leads-to-arrests-in-thailands-tourist-zones/

File photo courtesy of Pixabay Tourism police in Thailand have embraced cutting-edge technology, deploying AI-driven surveillance cameras at tourist hot spots, leading to the arrest of nearly 200 individuals with pending charges since July 2024. This initiative comes under the directive of Pol Gen Kittharath Punpetch to bolster crime prevention and public safety through modernisation. Pol Lt Gen Saksira Phueakum, head of the Tourist Police Bureau, shared these developments on Saturday. These AI-powered cameras are integrated with central databases, efficiently flagging persons with outstanding warrants or considered high-risk, allowing for real-time identification and swift apprehensions. The strategy has proven effective, with 180 suspects arrested in notable tourist locations: 102 in Pattaya, 54 in Chiang Mai, 21 in Nakhon Ratchasima, and 3 at Suvarnabhumi Airport. The detainees face charges ranging from theft and assault to more severe crimes like attempted murder. Apart from arrests, the technology is used to monitor roughly 600 individuals singled out for suspicious activities, including local and foreign pickpocket gangs and illicit currency exchange groups. Once these flagged people enter monitored areas, the police receive instant alerts, facilitating rapid intervention to foil potential crimes against tourists and locals alike. Plans are afoot to extend the AI camera network to all significant tourist spots throughout Thailand. This expansion aims to significantly deter criminal activities, thereby enhancing Thailand's image as a secure and safe travel destination. It's anticipated that these measures will create a safer environment, improving the holiday experience for tourists as well as the quality of life for local residents. In summary, the deployment of AI cameras at tourist attractions in Thailand has resulted in nearly 200 arrests and continues to play a crucial role in crime prevention, bolstering the safety and security of both tourists and residents across the country. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-26

Daycare Horror: Teacher Caught Pressing Toddler Down in Chachoengsao video screenshot A shocking video showing a daycare teacher in Chachoengsao pushing a toddler's head to make them sleep has sparked widespread outrage and cries for urgent childcare reforms. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361755-daycare-horror-teacher-caught-pressing-toddler-down-in-chachoengsao/

video screenshot A shocking video showing a daycare teacher in Chachoengsao pushing a toddler's head to make them sleep has sparked widespread outrage and cries for urgent childcare reforms. The distressing footage, initially shared on Facebook, reveals the teacher forcefully pressing down on the head of a two-and-a-half-year-old as the child tries to sit up, igniting a fierce backlash from parents. The child's mother, Sarunporn, expressed her anger and disbelief after a friend provided her with the video. Her son had been attending the daycare for just two weeks and had consistently shown reluctance, which she dismissed as typical at first. This alarming video, however, offers a possible reason for his unwillingness to attend each morning. Following the video's release, other parents have come forward with similar grievances but without evidence to back up their claims. A collective of concerned parents plan to ask the daycare's director to review all available CCTV footage to verify if other children have suffered similar mistreatment. Meanwhile, Siripong Wongphokinhiran, head of the Chachoengsao Children’s and Family Shelter, has confirmed receipt of an initial complaint from Sarunporn. He intends to accompany her in addressing the daycare centre's management to investigate the issue thoroughly, focusing not only on this incident but on the broader childcare environment. In a related incident, a mother in Nakhon Ratchasima province has raised allegations against a teacher for pinching her second-grade daughter, leaving visible bruises. Nijwaree, the upset mother of Wanmai, stated that her daughter relayed the painful encounter after returning, visibly distressed at the thought of returning to school. She seeks justice, demanding the school investigate the allegations. Both situations highlight the urgent need for stricter oversight in educational institutions to ensure the safety and well-being of children. Authorities are urged to act swiftly, providing anxious parents with reassurance that their children are in safe, nurturing environments. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The THaiger 2025-05-26

Farmers Plead for Government Help as Paddy Prices Crash Below Instant Noodles File photo courtesy of Wikipedia Farmers in Khon Kaen are urging the government for immediate intervention as paddy rice prices drop to a shocking low of 6 Thai Baht per kilogramme, outpriced by everyday instant noodles, usually costing about 7 Baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361752-farmers-plead-for-government-help-as-paddy-prices-crash-below-instant-noodles/

File photo courtesy of Wikipedia Farmers in Khon Kaen, Thailand, are urging the government for immediate intervention as paddy rice prices drop to a shocking low of 6 Thai Baht per kilogramme, outpriced by everyday instant noodles, usually costing about 7 Baht. Reporters from Amarin TV found that, despite a decent yield, the profit margin for rice farmers in Ban Kota village has plummeted, leaving them in financial distress. With heavy rains on the horizon, there's more pressure on them to complete their harvest quickly. Mr. Pongpichit Khunkota, a 50-year-old farmer, recounted that last year he managed to sell his paddy at 8 to 10 Baht per kg, but this year’s prices have nose-dived. Alongside the grand fall in rice prices, other farming costs such as oil and transportation have steadily risen, he explained, despite a moderate fall in fertiliser expenses. The selling price setback means a kilogramme of rice doesn't even match the cost of instant noodles, laying bare the dire economic condition for those who depend on rice farming. Ms. Amara Singhpim, 67, another farmer, expressed frustration over the 6 Baht per kg rate for dry paddy, stating it sinks lower to 5 Baht if the crop is moist. Despite harvesting from her six-rai field, she only garnered about 30,000 Baht—a sum inadequate for financing the next planting season without additional income sources. Both farmers and others in the community are appealing to the government not only for the previously announced 1,000 Baht per rai aid but also to facilitate a price increase to at least 8–9 Baht per kg for paddy rice. The farmers' appeal reflects a poignant struggle linking agricultural income with basic financial survival. As the rainy season nears, the pressure mounts on rice farmers to tackle low prices amid growing costs, underscoring an urgent need for governmental intervention to alleviate their plight and ensure the sustainability of their livelihoods. Adapted by ASEAN Now from [source] 2025-05-26

Thai PM Paetongtarn Dismisses UK Trip as Holiday Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has clarified that her recent visit to the UK and Monaco was not simply a holiday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361751-thai-pm-paetongtarn-dismisses-uk-trip-as-holiday/

Picture courtesy: National News Bureau of Thailand Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has clarified that her recent visit to the UK and Monaco was not simply a holiday. Speaking before her departure to the 46th ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur on May 25th, she highlighted significant diplomatic progress, particularly concerning a potential Formula 1 city circuit Grand Prix in Thailand, according to Amarin TV. The Prime Minister emphasised that her schedule was predominantly occupied with official duties, leaving her with only a brief opportunity for leisure at the airport on her last day. During her UK visit, she engaged in discussions with the British Department of Trade and Industry, exploring market needs and deliberating on the prospects of establishing a Free Trade Agreement. Shinawatra also met with Prince Albert II of Monaco and held discussions with Formula 1 executives, enhancing prospects for Thailand to host a city-circuit Grand Prix. Further details are expected to emerge in the coming two to three months. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-05-26

Thailand Considers Hosting Local F1 Race to Boost Tourism ASEAN NOW composite for reference only Thailand is accelerating plans to host a Formula 1 street race, with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announcing significant progress after discussions with Formula One Group CEO Stefano Domenicali. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361746-thailand-considers-hosting-local-f1-race-to-boost-tourism/

ASEAN NOW composite for reference only Thailand is accelerating plans to host a Formula 1 street race, with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announcing significant progress after discussions with Formula One Group CEO Stefano Domenicali. The meeting took place during the Monaco Grand Prix, aiming to explore the feasibility of bringing this prestigious event to Thailand. Following the meeting in Monaco, PM Paetongtarn shared that the proposed race is part of a larger strategy to enhance tourism through year-round attractions, including international events like Formula 1. This initiative falls under Thailand's "Man Made Destinations" concept, seeking to elevate the country's tourism appeal. Hosting a Formula 1 race in Thailand would necessitate extensive infrastructure upgrades, such as enhanced roads, spectator stands, and advanced digital systems, driving economic growth and job creation. During the Monaco discussion, topics included potential race locations and the prospect of public-private partnerships. The Prime Minister also met Thai drivers Alex Albon and Tanapol Inthrapuvasak, who expressed their enthusiasm and support for the initiative. Domenicali noted the benefits an F1 race could bring, emphasising Thailand's passionate motorsport fans and the positive impact on tourism and local economy. Talks have been ongoing since March, with several areas, including land near U-Tapao Airport, under consideration for the event. The plan aims to tap into Thailand’s strong tourism performance, with over 13 million visitors generating significant revenue in the first half of the year, and further attract international tourists with the allure of a new F1 race. With continued collaboration between Formula One Group and Thai authorities, Thailand is poised to strengthen its position as a premier global tourism destination. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-26

Emergency Rescue Crew Threatened by Armed Man Who Mistook Them for Criminal Accomplices Picture courtesy of Matichon. An alarming incident unfolded in the early hours of 24 May, when a rescue team rushing to help transport a patient to hospital was threatened by an armed man who mistakenly believed they were helping criminals flee the scene of a burglary. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361689-emergency-rescue-crew-threatened-by-armed-man-who-mistook-them-for-criminal-accomplices/

Police Helicopter Crash in Prachuap Khiri Khan Picture from responders. Emergency services have rushed to the scene of a helicopter crash that occurred in Ban Nong Kok, located in Ao Noi subdistrict, Mueang district of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361652-helicopter-crash-in-prachuap-khiri-khan/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 26 May 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1361710-thailand-live-monday-26-may-2025/

British Fugitives Arrested for Robbery & Fraud, Linked to Nominee Businesses on Koh Samui Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Immigration and crime suppression authorities have arrested two British nationals wanted in the UK for serious criminal offences, including robbery and fraud. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361698-british-fugitives-arrested-for-robbery-fraud-linked-to-nominee-businesses-on-koh-samui/

Cannabis Advocates Warn of Fallout from Thailand’s New Medical Use Rule File Photo - Police stand guard as cannabis activists and entrepreneurs, holding cannabis plants gather in front of Government House in Bangkok. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Cannabis advocates in Thailand are voicing frustration over a new proposal from the Public Health Ministry that would require all cannabis users to present medical certificates, restricting its use solely to medical purposes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361626-cannabis-advocates-warn-of-fallout-from-thailand’s-new-medical-use-rule/

File Photo - Police stand guard as cannabis activists and entrepreneurs, holding cannabis plants, gather in front of Government House in Bangkok. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) Cannabis advocates in Thailand are voicing frustration over a new proposal from the Public Health Ministry that would require all cannabis users to present medical certificates, restricting its use solely to medical purposes. Daycha Siripatra, a respected traditional medicine practitioner, criticised the move as a significant barrier to accessing cannabis for alternative treatments. He stressed the importance of public engagement in shaping the policy, warning that ignoring public sentiment could provoke backlash—especially from those who have heavily invested in the cannabis industry following decriminalisation. Panthep Puapongpan, dean of the College of Oriental Medicine at Rangsit University, expressed concerns about the reliance on modern medical practitioners, who may be reluctant to prescribe cannabis due to lack of confidence or perceived conflicts of interest with pharmaceutical companies. He warned that overly restrictive regulations could push people toward unregulated or illegal cannabis sources. The proposed policy could also affect individuals who cultivate cannabis at home for personal medical use, leaving them in a legal grey area. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin announced on Wednesday that the government aims to finalise these new cannabis regulations within 40 days. The proposal includes a requirement for Thai and foreign cannabis users to obtain certification from licensed medical professionals, including traditional Thai medicine practitioners, to prove the medical necessity of their usage. Dr. Somlerk Jeungsmarn, director-general of the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, explained that future rules could require documentation of specific medical conditions and set dosage limits to ensure cannabis use aligns with medical treatment standards. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-24

Corrections Dept Probes Alleged Beating of Inmate at Khao Bin Prison in Ratchaburi Picture courtesy of Daily News The Department of Corrections is investigating an incident involving a prison officer allegedly assaulting an inmate with a baton at Khao Bin Central Prison. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361612-corrections-dept-probes-alleged-beating-of-inmate-at-khao-bin-prison-in-ratchaburi/

Picture courtesy of Daily News The Department of Corrections is investigating an incident involving a prison officer allegedly assaulting an inmate with a baton at Khao Bin Central Prison in Ratchaburi. The department reported that the event occurred on 7th November 2024 when a brawl broke out between southern and central region inmates. On 23rd May, the Department of Corrections released a statement in response to a video shared by the Facebook page “Thanaikirapon Kaewkird,” which purportedly shows an inmate being assaulted by an officer. The department clarified that the reported incident already underwent initial review, with a committee formed to investigate further. It assured a fair and urgent examination, with the committee currently finalizing their report for senior management. Standard Operational Procedures (SOPs) dictate that staff must first warn inmates and announce the use of force if they do not cease hostile actions. If necessary, officers may use reasonable force, including batons, to restore order. However, should an officer continue using force once the situation is stabilised, it could be deemed a violation of human rights, potentially leading to disciplinary and criminal repercussions. The Department of Corrections underscores its commitment to upholding human rights and pledges a just, unbiased investigation into the incident, ensuring fairness for all parties involved. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-05-24

Pattaya Nightclub Inspections Boost Tourist Confidence Picture courtesy of Daily News In a bid to enhance safety for tourists, police and administrative officers conducted surprise inspections at several renowned nightclubs in Pattaya on 23rd May. This operation aimed to prevent underage entry, drug activity, and firearm possession, thereby promoting a safer environment for visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361607-pattaya-nightclub-inspections-boost-tourist-confidence/

Picture courtesy of Daily News In a bid to enhance safety for tourists, police and administrative officers conducted surprise inspections at several renowned nightclubs in Pattaya on 23rd May. This operation aimed to prevent underage entry, drug activity, and firearm possession, thereby promoting a safer environment for visitors. Led by Chonburi officials, including Provincial Defence Chief Lt. Col. Cholathit Leyanon and Bang Lamung District Officer Nathapop Yomjinda, the joint task force teamed up with Pattaya City Police under the leadership of Police Lt. Col. Suchat Dusadee. They carried out inspections at four venues, checking licences, employee records, and IDs of patrons. Drug tests on employees were also conducted. The inspections found no illegal activities, underage patrons, or drug presence, reflecting the strict compliance of these establishments with government regulations. Lt. Col. Cholathit highlighted that this operation aligns with the policy of Chonburi Governor Thawatchai Sritong. The collaborative efforts between provincial and district authorities and the Pattaya City Police aim to address social issues, particularly drug abuse, and ensure a secure tourism experience. Authorities urge businesses to continue adhering strictly to government measures. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-05-24

Thaksin Vows to Battle Legal Woes with 'More Resources' to the Very End Picture courtesy of Nation TV Thaksin Shinawatra is allegedly deploying his vast "resources" to mitigate the impact of myriad legal challenges on himself, his daughter-turned-Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, and the Pheu Thai-led government. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361603-thaksin-vows-to-battle-legal-woes-with-more-resources-to-the-very-end/

Picture courtesy of Nation TV Thaksin Shinawatra is allegedly deploying his vast "resources" to mitigate the impact of myriad legal challenges on himself, his daughter-turned-Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, and the Pheu Thai-led government. Partisan sources suggest that despite a Supreme Administrative Court ruling demanding his fugitive sister, Yingluck Shinawatra, pay THB 10.02 billion in damages over a previous rice subsidy scheme, Thaksin remains unfazed. He's strategically leveraging his influence to explore legal loopholes and safeguard his political interests. Reports indicate that Thaksin, the de facto Pheu Thai head, refuses to vacate the political sphere despite subtle nudges from elite circles. Instead, he’s determined to secure the political future of the "puppet" Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn, with whom he's tightly allied. He’s convinced, as articulated by a partisan source, that neither he nor his daughter would succumb to external pressure by stepping down or dissolving the House. As his latest drama unfolds, Thaksin stands accused of orchestrating a 2023 hospital fake-out to escape prison time under the guise of severe illness. This elaborate ruse, involving high-level Corrections Department officials and cunning exploitation of legal loopholes, granted him an extended stay at a Police Hospital luxury wing. The court has scheduled his hearing for June 13, where he may face penalties for contempt and legal infractions tied to past corruption convictions. Despite swirling speculation about his courtroom appearance, sources insist Thaksin will remain on Thai soil while observing his trial from elsewhere. A parallel legal ordeal awaits in July regarding a lese majeste charge, which traces back to his 2015 claims linking the monarchy to the 2006 coup during an interview with a Seoul news outlet. Thaksin’s vast financial and political influence is believed to have facilitated his freedom from prison. Unofficial reports suggest he's crafted intricate backdoor deals to facilitate his desired political landscape. His efforts purportedly include the controversial exclusion of the Move Forward party from post-election arrangements and its subsequent replacement with the Pheu Thai-led coalition, comprising former political adversaries. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-05-24

Ex-Thai PM Yingluck Condemns 10 Billion Baht Court Order, Calls It "Deeply Unjust" File photo for reference only In a striking declaration on social media, former Thai Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra has launched a powerful critique against a recent ruling by Thailand's Supreme Administrative Court. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361553-ex-thai-pm-yingluck-condemns-10-billion-baht-court-order-calls-it-deeply-unjust/