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German Man Arrested in Maha Sarakham for Drugs and 377-Day Overstay Pictures courtesy of Siam Rath In Maha Sarakham, immigration police have arrested a 53-year-old German national, known as Mr Thomas, for drug possession and overstaying his visa by 377 days. The arrest took place at a resort in the Khwao area of Mueang Maha Sarakham district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354348-german-man-arrested-in-maha-sarakham-for-drugs-and-377-day-overstay/

Pictures courtesy of Siam Rath In Maha Sarakham, immigration police have arrested a 53-year-old German national, known as Mr Thomas, for drug possession and overstaying his visa by 377 days. The arrest took place at a resort in the Khwao area of Mueang Maha Sarakham district. The incident unfolded after the local authorities received a tip-off from the resort owner about a foreign guest behaving suspiciously in Room 2. When officers arrived, Mr Thomas appeared startled and attempted to tamper with the door lock, prompting a search. This led to the discovery of methamphetamine hidden in a plastic wrap behind the lock. Mr Thomas, a 53-year-old German national, had entered Thailand via Suvarnabhumi Airport on 29 December 2023. He was initially granted a tourist visa valid until 27 January 2024, and even after extending his stay, his visa expired on 26 February 2024. While the officers were checking his documents, Mr Thomas became agitated and informed them that he needed to shower and change clothes. As he moved towards the door, he suspiciously fiddled with the lock, prompting the officers to investigate further. They discovered methamphetamine concealed in clear plastic wrap with black tape, which they seized. During questioning, Mr Thomas admitted to using the drugs daily but insisted they belonged to a friend. He is now facing charges of illegal possession and use of methamphetamine, as well as visa overstay. Mr Thomas is currently in custody awaiting further legal proceedings, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-03-12

From Cop to Convict: The Rise and Fall of 'Joe Ferrari' Picture courtesy of Thai PBS The intriguing yet tragic story of Thitisan "Joe Ferrari" Utthanaphon took a grim turn as the ex-police officer was discovered dead in Bangkok's Klong Prem prison last Friday. Authorities have labelled his death a suicide, but suspicions linger as his family clamours for a deeper investigation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354334-from-cop-to-convict-the-rise-and-fall-of-joe-ferrari/

Thailand Delays Entertainment Complex Bill Amid Public Concerns Picture courtesy of Thai PBS Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced today that the proposed entertainment complex bill is not ready for Cabinet discussion. She emphasised the need for thorough consultation with various stakeholders before proceeding with the project, highlighting its novelty in Thailand and the importance of avoiding hasty decisions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354333-thailand-delays-entertainment-complex-bill-amid-public-concerns/

Pictures courtesy of Thai Rath On 11th March, the mystery surrounding the death of former Police Colonel Thitisan Utthanaphon, also known as Joe Ferrari, was further explored through a media tour of his prison cell. Chief Joe, a detainee at Khlong Prem Central Prison, was found dead with a towel around his neck in cell number 50 of the 5th prison block on the night of 7th March. Officials from the Department of Corrections maintain there was no foul play involved, attributing his death to self-inflicted asphyxiation. However, his family has requested a secondary autopsy at Chulalongkorn Hospital to investigate further. The Department of Corrections allowed reporters access to cell number 50, where they could observe the conditions and items left untouched since Chief Joe's death. The cell contained personal belongings, including two blankets, a pair of shoes, and toiletries. Reporters were only permitted to view the interior from the doorway, noting the location where the incident occurred near the metal door frame. Adjacent to this was cell number 51, previously housing an LGBTQ inmate involved in a drug case, who had been relocated prior to the media visit. Inside, the room was equipped with a toilet and a ventilation fan and contained three towels. Police Lieutenant Colonel Chan Kanjanapat, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Corrections, clarified that the three towels served various purposes: as a sleeping mat, a pillow, and a blanket, with one additional towel allowed for bathing. He explained that this media access aimed to dispel speculation about the solitary confinement conditions. Chief Joe had been moved to the 5th block at his request following an incident involving a guard's camera at the 7th block, which led to his transfer, reported Thai Rath. -- 2025-03-12

Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira. File photo In a strategic move to rejuvenate its struggling stock market, Thailand has rolled out tax incentives specifically designed to attract local investors. This initiative, announced by Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, is a direct response to the market's lacklustre performance this year, driven by substantial foreign capital outflows. At the heart of this initiative is a new scheme dubbed 'ESG X', slated for launch by June. Investors partaking in these funds can avail themselves of a tax allowance up to 300,000 Thai Baht. These ESG X funds have a particular focus: investing in local companies that excel in the environmental, social, and governance sectors. This financial nudge comes at a significant potential cost to the Thai government, with an expected tax revenue loss of approximately 50 billion Baht, as noted by Pornchai Thiraveja, who leads the Fiscal Policy Office. The incentive rollout coincides with a moderate rebound of the SET Index, which saw a 0.9% rise on Tuesday, closing at 1,187.63 points. This increase comes as a relief amidst an overall 15% decline for the year. A combination of sluggish economic growth and disappointing corporate earnings has weighed heavily on market sentiment. Foreign investors remain cautious, reflected in their withdrawal of 25.7 billion Baht from Thai stocks in 2025 alone. The global tariff war exacerbates market volatility, particularly affecting nations like Thailand, which maintains a trade surplus with the US. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra underscores the necessity of stronger collaboration among economic policymakers to sustain national growth. An added aspect of the tax incentives targets investors holding long-term equity funds nearing maturity, valued around 180 billion Baht. To curb potential negative impacts from redemptions, these investors will be offered a tax break up to 500,000 Baht should they switch to ESG X funds. However, they must commit to a five-year investment period within the new fund. This new strategy builds on last year's tax break enhancements and reduced lock-in periods to encourage ESG fund investments. Additionally, the government is evaluating a new legislative decree focusing on irregularities in stock trading and corporate activities. Swift enforcement of such regulations is crucial, says Mr. Pichai, in restoring investor confidence within Thailand's financial markets. Overall, these proactive measures reflect Thailand's commitment to stabilising its financial landscape while fostering sustainable investment practices, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-12

File photo courtesy of Thairath The political landscape in Thailand is heating up as the opposition remains resolute about including references to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in their censure motion against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. This unfolds even as House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha recommended expunging such references to facilitate the imminent debate scheduled for later this month. Opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut confirmed the decision yesterday, signalling potential stalemate risks in this high-stakes parliamentary showdown. The upcoming debate might hang in balance as Mr Wan criticised the motion framed against Thaksin, who, unable to attend, would not be present to defend himself. Moreover, the House Speaker expressed concerns that including Thaksin could expose him to defamation lawsuits. Despite these warnings, the opposition maintains its position, viewing Thaksin's involvement in his daughter's administration as a vital point to address during the censure discourse. Mr Natthaphong indicated plans to formally express discontent with Mr Wan's suggestion shortly, emphasising the urgency and significance of the issue. Should the House Speaker refuse to entertain the debate with the motion intact, the opposition hinted at undisclosed measures, though Mr Natthaphong assured there's room for negotiation to resolve the impasse before the parliamentary session wraps up. In the midst of this political tug-of-war, Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai reminded that ultimate authority over the motion rests with Mr Wan. He suggested that continued dialogue between government and opposition whips could bridge differences, adhering to parliamentary meeting regulation No.176, which discourages unnecessary third-party mentions in censure motions. For context, this isn’t a novel predicament for the Thai parliament. Notably, Pheu Thai MP Wisut Chainarun, also the chief government whip, mentioned that the debate's scheduling hinges on Mr Wan's decision to table the motion first. Adding to the historical narrative, opposition MP Rangsiman Rome remarked that Mr Wan himself initiated a similar motion in 2019 when he was in opposition. The stakes are high, and as the clock ticks towards the censure debate deadline, all eyes are on how the tug-of-war over procedural nuances and political narratives will unfold in the House, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-12

Picture courtesy of Thai PBS In a recent turn of events that's captured nationwide attention, a photo of People's Party MP Chorayuth Chaturapornprasit allegedly holding an e-cigarette within the hallowed halls of Thailand's Parliament has gone viral. The image, quickly disseminated through social media, has ignited a robust public outcry, prompting calls for an official inquiry into the incident. The photograph appeared on a well-known Facebook page, sparking a wave of shares, likes, and comments as it quickly spread across the platform. Many of the public reactions have been critical, highlighting the legislative member's controversial behaviour in contravention of Thailand’s strict no-smoking policies within government premises. More compelling is the fact that possession of e-cigarettes in Thailand is illegal in itself, an infraction which could result in imprisonment, fines, or both, with penalties reaching up to 500,000 Thai Baht. As the image gained traction online, critics pointed out that MPs, as public figures and lawmakers, are expected to exemplify legal and ethical conduct. The incident has placed significant pressure on the People's Party to respond. In an official statement, Pakornwut Udompipatskul, Deputy Leader of the People's Party, addressed the controversy by acknowledging the need for an internal investigation to establish the facts behind the photo. He emphasised the party's commitment to transparency and responsibility but also noted that such behaviours aren't confined to a single party. "This has happened in other parties as well. The focus is on the People's Party only because a photograph exists," he remarked. While acknowledging the gravity of the situation, Pakornwut highlighted the importance of handling the issue with measured diligence, asserting that no discussion with Chorayuth had occurred at the time of the statement. This unfolding situation serves as a reminder of the intricate balance public figures must maintain between personal actions and their professional responsibilities. As citizens continue to voice their concerns over social media, it presses the issue of accountability and draws attention to the broader discourse on vaping regulations and political decorum in Thailand. The incident remains under the scrutiny of both the public and internal party mechanisms. As the investigation proceeds, the focus on lawmakers’ adherence to legal stipulations and public expectations remains a key theme in the discourse surrounding this event, reported Thai PBS -- 2025-03-12

Picture courtesy of Thai PBS Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced today that the proposed entertainment complex bill is not ready for Cabinet discussion. She emphasised the need for thorough consultation with various stakeholders before proceeding with the project, highlighting its novelty in Thailand and the importance of avoiding hasty decisions. The government's cautious approach comes in the wake of ongoing protests near Government House. Anti-casino groups have voiced strong opposition to the bill, threatening to intensify their actions if the Cabinet were to approve it prematurely. Acknowledging these concerns, the Prime Minister assured that the government will consider all perspectives, aiming for a balanced judgement. Simultaneously, Deputy Agriculture Minister Dech-it Khaothong addressed rumours circulating about former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra's involvement in the casino debate. Recent speculations suggested Thaksin was in Hat Yai to advocate for the project. However, Dech-it clarified that Thaksin's visit was purely social, aimed at reconnecting with local communities and Malaysian tourists, as he hasn't been to the region in a significant time. Thaksin's agenda primarily focused on discussing critical infrastructure issues such as flood prevention across the Songkhla, Phatthalung, and Nakhon Si Thammarat provinces, along with plans for the development of Songkhla Lake. This clarification helps dispel misconceptions regarding the former Prime Minister's stance on the proposed casino. When it comes to the potential establishment of a casino in Hat Yai, Dech-it asserted that the decision should rest with the residents of Songkhla province. This position respects local autonomy and ensures that those most affected by such decisions have a direct say in their outcomes. As the government navigates this contentious issue, the unfolding debate highlights the complexities involved in introducing new entertainment ventures, particularly in regions where tourism and community interests must balance. The outcome could set a significant precedent for how Thailand approaches similar initiatives in the future. Such a project could have substantial economic implications, potentially enriching the local economy through increased tourism. However, it also poses challenges, including socio-cultural impacts and shifts in local dynamics. As the discussion advances, stakeholders will likely continue scrutinising the balance between economic growth, social responsibility, and community consent. The Cabinet's eventual decision will undoubtedly be pivotal in charting the nation's course on integrating such projects into its landscape, influencing both policy direction and the socio-economic fabric of the regions involved, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-03-12

Picture courtesy of Thai PBS The intriguing yet tragic story of Thitisan "Joe Ferrari" Utthanaphon took a grim turn as the ex-police officer was discovered dead in Bangkok's Klong Prem prison last Friday. Authorities have labelled his death a suicide, but suspicions linger as his family clamours for a deeper investigation. Thitisan, once a shining star in Thai law enforcement, rose rapidly through the ranks to become a colonel by the age of 41. His career success was mirrored by an extravagant lifestyle, punctuated by a collection of supercars, earning him the nickname "Joe Ferrari". This opulence, however, came into question with suspicions of corruption that led to asset seizures. In 2021, his fall from grace was cemented following his conviction and life sentence for torturing a suspect to death. Spending his days incarcerated, Thitisan resurfaced in headlines owing to reports of unrest within the prison walls. His family asserts that his remaining time was marred by abuse from both inmates and guards. A conflict with a fellow prisoner allegedly led to his singling out for mistreatment, culminating in a violent incident with a senior prison official. On January 8th, Thitisan filed a complaint alleging he had been attacked and threatened, substantiated by medical reports of his injuries. Yet, despite multiple police inquiries, little progress was made in addressing these serious allegations. His health reportedly declined, prompting his mother to urgently seek intervention. But, tragically, the attempt was too late. On the night of his death, prison officials claim Thitisan took his life using a towel, a finding contested by his grieving family who have called for a second autopsy. Meanwhile, social media responded with mixed sentiments. Some view his demise as karmic justice for the brutal actions that led to his conviction – suffocating a drug suspect with a plastic bag in a misguided interrogation effort. Yet others contend that his prison ordeal necessitated a fuller investigation, arguing that human rights should protect even the incarcerated. Raised in Bangkok and educated at the Armed Forces Academies Preparatory School, Thitisan's ascent through the police ranks was swift and rewarded with substantial bonuses for busting criminal enterprises and seizing illegal assets. Parallel to his professional exploits, his personal life drew public interest due to his high-profile relationships, notably with women from the entertainment sector. Once entangled with opulence and influence, Thitisan's demise highlights the complex interplay of justice, power, and redemption. His family, refusing to cremate the body, underscores the unresolved nature of his story, leaving a community divided yet reflective on the broader implications of his dramatic life and death, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-03-12

Thai MP Allegedly Caught Vaping in Parliament Sparks Outrage Picture courtesy of Thai PBS In a recent turn of events that's captured nationwide attention, a photo of People's Party MP Chorayuth Chaturapornprasit allegedly holding an e-cigarette within the hallowed halls of Thailand's Parliament has gone viral. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354331-thai-mp-allegedly-caught-vaping-in-parliament-sparks-outrage/

Opposition Asserts Thaksin Mentions Amid Censure Debate Tensions File photo courtesy of Thairath The political landscape in Thailand is heating up as the opposition remains resolute about including references to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra in their censure motion against Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354326-opposition-asserts-thaksin-mentions-amid-censure-debate-tensions/

Thailand's Tax Incentives Aim to Boost Equity Market Revival Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira. File photo In a strategic move to rejuvenate its struggling stock market, Thailand has rolled out tax incentives specifically designed to attract local investors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354324-thailands-tax-incentives-aim-to-boost-equity-market-revival/

Inside the Prison Cell Where Thai Police Chief 'Joe Ferrari' Died Pictures courtesy of Thai Rath On 11th March, the mystery surrounding the death of former Police Colonel Thitisan Utthanaphon, also known as Joe Ferrari, was further explored through a media tour of his prison cell. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354320-inside-the-prison-cell-where-thai-police-chief-joe-ferrari-died/

Picture courtesy of Daily News The investigation into the death of Police Colonel Thitisan Utthanaphon, also known as Joe Ferrari, has hit a snag as authorities admit to difficulties in conducting an autopsy due to the altered state of his body. A meeting with senior police officials and forensics experts, lasting over three hours, was held to expedite the case at Prachachuen Police Station on 11th March. Preliminary evidence, including CCTV footage, has not revealed any abnormalities prior to his death in custody. The footage shows Joe Ferrari interacting normally with guards, and there are no signs of forced entry or unauthorised access to his cell. Prison officials discovered Joe Ferrari at approximately 8 PM as they attempted to deliver anti-anxiety medication. Attempts to rouse him were unsuccessful, and further inspection revealed a cloth tied around his neck. Emergency services were alerted at 11 PM, but police only accessed the scene at 10 AM the following day after the arrival of all relevant agencies. The delay has complicated the autopsy as the body, left in place for 14 hours, was repositioned, making it challenging to ascertain the circumstances of death. Initial findings noted minor blood stains nearby, which have been confirmed as human and will undergo DNA testing. There were also small animal bite marks on one arm. With two potential causes of death—suicide or foul play—investigators have a 30-day time frame to resolve the case. Further forensic analysis is underway, including DNA testing on the cloth used in the incident, which may take up to a week, reported Daily News. -- 2025-03-12

Joe Ferrari: Altered Body State Hinders Police Chief's Autopsy Picture courtesy of Daily News The investigation into the death of Police Colonel Thitisan Utthanaphon, also known as Chief Joe, has hit a snag as authorities admit to difficulties in conducting an autopsy due to the altered state of his body. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354317-joe-ferrari altered-body-state-hinders-police-chiefs-autopsy/

Russian Tourist Rescued After Near-Drowning in Similan Islands Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Emergency services in Phang Nga rushed to assist a Russian tourist, 53-year-old Igor Baluev, after he nearly drowned while swimming at Mieng Island, part of the Similan Islands National Park. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354316-russian-tourist-rescued-after-near-drowning-in-similan-islands/

Fire Erupts at Ramathibodi Hospital Forces Emergency Patient Evacuations Picture courtesy of Siam Rath BANGKOK - A fire broke out at Ramathibodi Hospital on the evening of 11th March, prompting emergency services to swiftly evacuate patients amidst chaotic scenes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354315-fire-erupts-at-ramathibodi-hospital forces-emergency-patient-evacuations/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath BANGKOK - A fire broke out at Ramathibodi Hospital on the evening of 11th March, prompting emergency services to swiftly evacuate patients amidst chaotic scenes. The blaze was reported at 7:27 PM and originated on the second floor of a nine-storey building, with lower floors used as laboratories and upper floors accommodating patients, reported Siam Rath. Fire crews managed to contain the fire, but thick smoke continued to billow through the structure. Patients were moved from the left side of each floor to the right to ensure their safety. Efforts are ongoing to ventilate the smoke from the premises. As of 8:12 PM, there were initial concerns about hospital staff possibly being trapped in a third-floor operating room. However, subsequent checks confirmed no one was left inside. The cause of the fire is under investigation. -- 2025-03-12

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath Emergency services in Phang Nga rushed to assist a Russian tourist, 53-year-old Igor Baluev, after he nearly drowned while swimming at Mieng Island, part of the Similan Islands National Park. The tourist was on a trip with a local tour company when he experienced water inhalation difficulties. Island staff and park nurses swiftly administered initial first aid, including CPR. Despite efforts, Mr. Baluev remained unconscious and unresponsive. He was quickly transferred to a medical facility via the park’s ambulance boat. The ambulance vessel transported him to Tab Lamu Pier in Phang Nga, where he was then taken to the Khao Lak Medical Centre for further treatment. Tourists needing emergency assistance at sea are advised to contact the Marine Safety Centre at 1465, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-03-12

Picture courtesy of Naewna A dramatic five-hour rescue operation unfolded on Koh Samui yesterday as officials worked tirelessly to save a Polish tourist who had suffered a fall at the top of Na Mueang Song Waterfall. The victim, a 38-year-old woman named Ms. Monika, tragically broke her ankle during a picturesque hike, plunging into a challenging situation that required a coordinated rescue effort. Authorities were alerted to the incident when Ms. Monika, who had been enjoying the striking views from the peak of the waterfall, slipped on the wet rocks of the Na Mueang subdistrict, falling onto a ledge and rendering herself unable to walk down. The area, known for its stunning elevation, stands at over 200 metres, making the descent hazardous even under the best circumstances. Swift to respond, volunteer defence officials, local police, and navy sailors from the Samui Boat Station hurried to the scene with the necessary high-elevation rescue gear. The operation, which unfolded in the evening's dimming light, demanded both skill and perseverance given the difficult terrain and Monika's injury. Eyewitnesses recounted seeing Monika admiring the breathtaking vista before the mishap occurred. Wet rocks, a familiar hazard for those trekking waterfalls, proved treacherous underfoot. Despite the urgency of the situation, the rescue team exercised extreme care, ensuring not to exacerbate her injury further. Once the team reached Ms. Monika, they confirmed she had indeed sustained a fracture to her right ankle. The challenge was then to transport her safely through the rugged landscape — a task complicated by both the darkness and her mobility constraints. It was a delicate balancing act requiring meticulous coordination among all the rescuers involved. Finally, after five arduous hours, the rescuers succeeded in bringing Monika to safety. She was promptly transferred to a local hospital for further medical attention, where her condition could be properly assessed and treated. This incident serves as a cautionary tale for tourists and locals alike about the inherent risks of exploring Thailand’s natural wonders. While the lush landscapes and stunning views beckon visitors from around the globe, the unexpected nature of outdoor excursions demands vigilance and respect for potential dangers. Monika’s ordeal concludes on a hopeful note as rescuers, embodying teamwork and dedication, ensured her safe extraction, highlighting the critical role of emergency services on Thailand's popular tourist destinations, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-03-12

Polish Tourist Rescued After Accident at Koh Samui Waterfall Picture courtesy of Naewna A dramatic five-hour rescue operation unfolded on Koh Samui yesterday as officials worked tirelessly to save a Polish tourist who had suffered a fall at the top of Na Mueang Song Waterfall. The victim, a 38-year-old woman named Ms. Monika, tragically broke her ankle during a picturesque hike, plunging into a challenging situation that required a coordinated rescue effort. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354313-polish-tourist-rescued-after-accident-at-koh-samui-waterfall/

Thailand Poised for High-Speed Rail Revolution Linking Three Airports Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's grand vision of connecting Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports via high-speed rail is edging closer to reality. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) board is primed for final approvals, with hopes pinned on a Cabinet green light by May. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354277-thailand-poised-for-high-speed-rail-revolution-linking-three-airports/

29 Tourists Rescued as Speedboat Springs Leak off Krabi Mainland Picture courtesy of MGR online In a dramatic turn of events on Monday, 29 tourists were rescued after their speedboat began leaking en route from Koh Lipe to Phuket. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354274-29-tourists-rescued-as-speedboat-springs-leak-off-krabi-mainland/

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 12 March 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1354276-thailand-live-wednesday-12-march-2025/