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Bangkok Delays AI-Powered Speed Limit Cameras Photo courtesy: Bangkok Metropolitan Administration In a bid to curb road accidents and enhance safety, Bangkok recently rolled out revised speed limits across the city. However, the implementation is hitting a snag as the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) delays deploying Artificial Intelligence (AI) cameras crucial for enforcement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351329-bangkok-delays-ai-powered-speed-limit-cameras/

Photo courtesy: Bangkok Metropolitan Administration In a bid to curb road accidents and enhance safety, Bangkok recently rolled out revised speed limits across the city. However, the implementation is hitting a snag as the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) delays deploying Artificial Intelligence (AI) cameras crucial for enforcement. As of December 23, Bangkok streets were primarily subjected to a new speed limit of 60 kilometres per hour (kph), with exceptions carved out for 13 main roads. A further reduction was set around the Grand Palace to 50kph, including a strict ban on honking. Despite these measures, the absence of AI cameras is stalling effective enforcement as traffic police wait to see violations automatically captured and processed. The roads exempted from the new 60kph limit include Vibhavadi Rangsit, Bang Na-Trat, Srinakarin, Phahon Yothin, and several others key for high traffic volume. Meanwhile, the zones around the historical Grand Palace, such as Na Phra That and Sanam Chai roads, are strictly controlled with the 50kph restriction to preserve the area’s tranquillity. Police Major General Thawat Wongsanga, deputy chief of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, has championed the initiative, aiming not only to lower the high accident rates but also to align with global road safety norms. "Bangkok has a disturbingly high accident rate," he highlights, "Ranking among the top five cities worldwide for road accidents necessitates drastic measures." Globally, this decision aligns Bangkok with efforts seen in other international cities making similar changes to reduce both the speed and incidence of traffic-related fatalities. The World Health Organisation (WHO) underscores that just a 1% increase in average speed increases fatal crash risks by 4%. A car hitting a pedestrian at 65kph is 4.5 times more likely to result in fatality compared to 50kph. Yet, despite these statistics, there's significant resistance among Bangkok's motorists and residents, who question the effectiveness of this decision without proper enforcement in place. Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawat reiterates the necessity of AI cameras, given the inadequate human resources to oversee the entire city manually. He promises that tickets will be dispatched to violators once the technology is implemented. In the interim, motorists are encouraged to voluntarily adhere to the new speed regulations, although the absence of active enforcement due to delayed AI camera installations may dampen compliance. The situation urges immediate action from the BMA to accelerate camera deployment, ensuring Bangkok’s roads not only remain orderly but safe for all. This delay poses significant challenges, with road safety hanging in the balance as authorities work to catch up with technological needs. Efficient execution remains crucial, showing Bangkok’s efforts to transform its road safety landscape in line with global standards, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-10

Tourist Defecates on Police Car, Public Urination Unfolds Outside Police Station Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV In yet another episode in Pattaya, tourists unable to hold it any longer have resorted to relieving themselves inappropriately, even as one was spotted defecating on the bonnet of a Deputy Superintendent's car. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351326-tourist-defecates-on-police-car-public-urination-unfolds-outside-police-station/

Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV In yet another episode in Pattaya, tourists unable to hold it any longer have resorted to relieving themselves inappropriately, even as one was spotted defecating on the bonnet of a Deputy Superintendent's car. On 10th February 2024, reports surfaced from Chonburi Province of tourists, both local and international, frequenting the vibrant beachfront area opposite Pattaya City Police Station. This location, known for its nightlife and lively atmosphere, often draws many visitors who sit by the beach to enjoy the scenery. Tourists in need of public facilities typically use the toilets at Pattaya City Police Station. However, as of late, a notice has been posted at the entrance stating, "No Water Supply," indicating that the facilities have been out of service for the past 3-4 days. This has led some visitors to seek out nearby private toilets, incurring a fee of 5-10 baht. Most, however, disregarded the notice, sneaking through the station to the rear and relieving themselves. Men have been seen urinating behind the station, while women find more concealed spots. Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV In a particularly shocking incident, one individual defecated on a Deputy Superintendent's car parked at the station for all to see. The area is bustling with tourists and locals who visit the police station for various services. It's become a persistent issue, with the odour of urine permeating the surroundings. Locals and visitors alike have expressed their discomfort, noting the overpowering smell as soon as they step out of their cars. Many have taken to covering their noses. Residents urge the Superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station to address and resolve the situation efficiently, reported Amarin TV. -- 2025-02-10

Bars in Thailand Set to Close This Week for Buddhist Holiday Composite image for reference only Makha Bucha Day, a key Buddhist celebration, takes place on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. This holiday occurs during the full moon of the third lunar month, commemorating the day when 1,250 of Buddha’s followers gathered spontaneously to hear his teachings on moral conduct and mental purification. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351300-bars-in-thailand-set-to-close-this-week-for-buddhist--holiday/

Tramadol Sales Exposed in Suphan Buri Illegal Pharmacy Raid Picture courtesy: Khaosod SUPHAN BURI - A targeted raid on illicit pharmaceutical operations has unveiled the illegal sale of Tramadol, a controlled substance, being traded under the cloak of a legitimate cannabis business. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351324-tramadol-sales-exposed-in-suphan-buri-illegal-pharmacy-raid/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod SUPHAN BURI - A targeted raid on illicit pharmaceutical operations has unveiled the illegal sale of Tramadol, a controlled substance, being traded under the cloak of a legitimate cannabis business. This crackdown, conducted by local administrative and health officers, underscores a critical issue of public health and safety as it aims to stem the flood of dangerous drugs into the communities. On 8th February, Chaiyathat Jessadapakkorn, leading the drug suppression and social order task force in Mueang Suphan Buri, collaborated with a special operations unit and the provincial health office. Their focus was a particular shop on Phan Kham Road, flagged by locals for vending Tramadol unlawfully. Deploying an undercover operative, officials managed to purchase two packs of Tramadol for 120 Thai baht, approximately US$3.50, from the shop, manifesting conclusive evidence of illegal dealings. Following this, they made their move into the establishment, confronting two individuals, referred to here as A and B, stationed at the counter and responsible for the sale. During an inquiry, B confessed to assisting her partner, the shop’s proprietor, in peddling these drugs, directly admitting to the sale to the undercover agent earlier. A comprehensive sweep of the premises yielded a significant haul of Tramadol: 30 packs each containing ten 50-milligram pills, totalling 903 pills in bottles, and an additional 50 pills in sachets. Alongside Tramadol, stocks of other dangerous substances like Fenafec, Promethazine, and Fatec were also found, all classified under stringent pharmaceutical regulations. The suspects were taken to Mueang Suphan Buri Police station to face charges related to unauthorised drug sales, a serious breach under the Drug Act of 1967. This can lead to a five-year jail term and fines up to 10,000 baht, which is about US$295. They will also answer for practising pharmacy without a valid licence, as per the Pharmacy Profession Act of 1994, carrying penalties up to three years in prison or fines reaching 30,000 baht, roughly US$885. Dr. Ratthaphon Wetsaransuthi, Suphan Buri’s provincial public health officer, explained that this operation followed numerous complaints regarding the unlawful sale of drugs such as Tramadol and Fenafec. These substances are notorious for their analgesic and sedative qualities, which can be highly addictive and harmful, risking seizures when misused. The joint effort with local police seeks not only to reduce the availability of such substances but also to address the broader impact on community health, providing a reminder of the vigilance necessary to curb drug misuse. Through these actions, authorities aim to safeguard the public from the hazards posed by unscrupulous operators exploiting vulnerable individuals with harmful narcotics, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-10

Thaksin Breaks Ties with 'Big Police Officer' Following '14th Floor' Information Leak Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has dismissed the notion of maintaining close ties with a high-ranking police officer amidst current political tensions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351320-thaksin-breaks-ties-with-big-police-officer-following-14th-floor-information-leak/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has dismissed the notion of maintaining close ties with a high-ranking police officer amidst current political tensions. In a recent interview, Thaksin clarified that his past relationship with the police official is now relegated to being mere acquaintances. The comments arose following news that the police officer had provided opposition parties with sensitive information regarding the 14th floor of Bangkok police hospital. Thaksin, himself a former police officer, remarked that he knew male top brass cops but maintained no connection with female ones, dismissing rumours linking him to women in high-ranking police positions. When questioned about potential fallout from a forthcoming government censure debate, which might touch on issues like PM 2.5 dust pollution, casinos, and electricity cuts in Myanmar, Thaksin acknowledged that the government would face challenging questions. He noted that while air pollution solutions are long-term, the government has been gradually introducing measures to address these concerns, reported Siam Rath. Attempts to further link Thaksin to unspecified female police commissioners were downplayed, with Thaksin reiterating, “There are only male police generals in Thailand.” -- 2025-02-10

Thaksin Delays Yingluck's Homecoming: Return to Thailand Uncertain File photo courtesy: Matichon Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai party, has announced that the much-anticipated return of his sister, former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, to Thailand during the Songkran festival is currently uncertain. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351284-thaksin-delays-yinglucks-homecoming-return-to-thailand-uncertain/

File photo courtesy: Matichon Thaksin Shinawatra, the de facto leader of the Pheu Thai party, has announced that the much-anticipated return of his sister, former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, to Thailand during the Songkran festival is currently uncertain. Speaking with Naewna newspaper on 9th February, Thaksin emphasised that her comeback depends on the "appropriateness" of the timing and situation. When queried about the specific barriers affecting her return, Thaksin indicated that there are numerous factors at play, without delving into exact details. Despite these hurdles, he mentioned that Yingluck had a strong desire to return, even expressing a wish to fly back as recently as yesterday. Yingluck has been living abroad for over six years, evading a sentence handed down after her government was unseated by a military coup in 2014. Her conviction stems from charges of duty negligence related to a mishandled rice subsidy programme, resulting in a five-year prison sentence. The political and personal implications of her potential return are complex, involving legal challenges and broader political ramifications within Thailand. Thaksin's statement reflects the cautious approach the family is adopting as they navigate these intricacies. As of now, Yingluck's return remains under consideration, and no definitive plans have been set. The delicate balance of political atmosphere and legal considerations will likely influence any future decisions regarding her re-entry into Thai public life, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-02-10

Kenyan Man Escapes Myanmar Call Scam Gang, Flees to Thailand Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a harrowing escape, a Kenyan man managed to flee a brutal call scam operation run by a Chinese-led gang in Myanmar, seeking refuge in Thailand's Phop Phra district. The 30-year-old, with visible wounds covering his body, arrived at a local shop on Sunday morning, desperately pleading for assistance from law enforcement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351315-kenyan-man-escapes-myanmar-call-scam-gang-flees-to-thailand/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a harrowing escape, a Kenyan man managed to flee a brutal call scam operation run by a Chinese-led gang in Myanmar, seeking refuge in Thailand's Phop Phra district. The 30-year-old, with visible wounds covering his body, arrived at a local shop on Sunday morning, desperately pleading for assistance from law enforcement. The unnamed Kenyan recounted his escape from what he described as a "scammer town" in Myawaddy, Myanmar. He endured a gruelling five-hour trek, crossing mountainous terrain and covering over 10 kilometres to reach the Thai border. His ordeal began when a job placement firm in Kenya lured him with a promise of a high-paying chef position in Thailand. Upon arrival at Suvarnabhumi Airport on October 5, 2024, he and two other Kenyans were deceitfully transported to Mae Sot district. There, they were forced across the border into the clutches of a call scam syndicate that involved cryptocurrency investment fraud. Resistance to participate in the fraudulent activities led to severe beatings for the Kenyan. He recounted how his captors assaulted him with a stun baton and a baseball bat, even applying hot wax to his injuries as a form of torture. By the time he reached the Thai side, his feet were swollen and battered from running barefoot. According to his testimony, the scam operation housed approximately 1,000 individuals of various nationalities, including Bangladeshi, Cambodian, Ethiopian, Pakistani, and Sri Lankan citizens. He was one of 23 Kenyans at the facility, which was operated by Chinese overseers, reported Bangkok Post. His escape highlights the dire conditions and treatment faced by those trapped within such criminal enterprises. It underscores the need for international cooperation to combat human trafficking and exploitation networks that often prey on vulnerable people seeking legitimate employment opportunities abroad. -- 2025-02-10

Composite image for reference only Makha Bucha Day, a key Buddhist celebration, takes place on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. This holiday occurs during the full moon of the third lunar month, commemorating the day when 1,250 of Buddha’s followers gathered spontaneously to hear his teachings on moral conduct and mental purification. On Makha Bucha Day, many Thais visit temples to participate in religious rituals, offer food to monks, meditate, and join candlelit processions. It is also a common practice to abstain from alcohol and other pleasures as a gesture of respect and mindfulness. In accordance with Thai law, alcohol sales are banned on religious holidays. As a result, all bars will be closed, and convenience stores will not be able to sell alcohol for a full 24-hour period, from midnight to midnight on Wednesday. Violators of this regulation face hefty fines and potential prison sentences, reported The Phuket Express. -- 2025-02-10

Thailand Steps Up Enforcement on Illegal Foreign Teachers File photo for reference only In a significant move to regulate foreign employment, Thailand's Department of Employment (DoE) has intensified its inspections of language schools across Bangkok. This action follows the arrest of eight South Korean language teachers for working without the necessary permits. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351309-thailand-steps-up-enforcement-on-illegal-foreign-teachers/

File photo for reference only In a significant move to regulate foreign employment, Thailand's Department of Employment (DoE) has intensified its inspections of language schools across Bangkok. This action follows the arrest of eight South Korean language teachers for working without the necessary permits. DoE Director-General Somchai Morakotsriwan announced that these proactive inspections are part of the "Search, Arrest, Fine, Deport" initiative. This operation aims to address public concerns about foreigners working illegally in the Ratchada and Bang Na districts, particularly at well-known Korean language institutions. A joint task force from the DoE’s foreign labour inspection unit and the Immigration Bureau (IB) police conducted raids to verify the employment statuses of foreign teachers. Although Sunday's inspections did not uncover further illegal employment, the operations underscore a continued commitment to enforcing work permit laws. This crackdown is designed to safeguard job opportunities for Thai citizens by ensuring compliance with employment regulations. Last Thursday, IB police had already raided two language school branches along Ratchadaphisek Road, resulting in the arrests of eight South Koreans for working without valid permits. Somchai emphasized the legal requirements for foreign teachers, who must enter Thailand under a non-immigrant visa and apply for work permits with appropriate teaching credentials. These applications are processed through the Bangkok Employment Office Area 1-10 or the relevant Provincial Employment Office. Penalties for non-compliance are severe: foreign teachers working without a valid work permit risk fines ranging from 5,000 to 50,000 Thai Baht (approximately £110 to £1,120), alongside deportation. Schools found employing undocumented workers face fines between 10,000 and 100,000 Thai Baht (approximately £225 to £2,250) for each illegal employee. Repeat offenders could incur harsher penalties, including fines of 50,000 to 200,000 Thai Baht (approximately £1,120 to £4,480) and possible imprisonment for school owners. To facilitate compliance, the Labour Ministry provides assistance through a multilingual hotline. Foreign nationals seeking work permits can call 1506, pressing '2', or the DoE's 1694 hotline, with English interpreters available to guide them through legal employment procedures in Thailand, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-10

Corruption Allegations Loom Over Phuket Airport Staff Picture courtesy: AoT Phuket Phuket International Airport's management is currently under scrutiny for corruption, though no official investigation has commenced. Concerns centre on four Airports of Thailand (AoT) management staff accused of mismanaging an 11.8 million baht (£256,000) contract for commemorative stickers, yet they remain employed as the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) continues to gather evidence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351274-corruption-allegations-loom-over-phuket-airport-staff/

Anutin Highlights China's Praise for Thailand’s Scam Crackdown Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul shuts down electricity supplies to five locations in Thailand-Myanmar border at the Provincial Electricity Authority headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025. (Provincial Electricity Authority via AP) China has praised Thailand for cutting electricity to disrupt scam centres in Myanmar, according to Thai Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. This support follows Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's recent official visit to China, where allied efforts to tackle crime were a focal point. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351270-anutin-highlights-chinas-praise-for-thailand’s-scam-crackdown/

Ugandan Woman Fakes Seizure to Evade Immigration Check in Pattaya A Ugandan woman attempted to evade an immigration check by feigning a seizure on Pattaya Beach after being stopped by officers late during the night of 7 February. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351221-ugandan-woman-fakes-seizure-to-evade-immigration-check-in-pattaya/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 10 February 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1351254-thailand-live-monday-10-february-2025/

Sign in a Pai restaurant declaring "No Israel here" on the right, and an image of the foreign tourist involved in an incident with two female restaurateurs on the left. Composite courtesy: AMARIN TV Tensions are simmering in Pai, Mae Hong Son, as anti-Semitic sentiments have surfaced, leading several businesses and a local restaurants to display signs stating that Israeli tourists are unwelcome. This reaction follows disturbances caused by certain Israeli travellers. On 8th February, Police Lieutenant Colonel Suwit Bunnaphen of the Mae Hong Son Tourist Police confirmed the removal of disruptive Israeli tourists from the country. These individuals were charged with causing disturbances at Pai Hospital and have had their entry permits revoked. Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV The incidents underscore concerns about some foreign tourists who, by behaving poorly and violating laws, disrupt the peace and order of the local community. Police Major General Sakyasira Pueng-um, from the tourist police, emphasised rigorous law enforcement for all tourists, irrespective of nationality, aiming to ensure equal treatment and maintain peace. Following these events, authorities in Pai intend to enforce tourism-related laws more strictly to ensure a harmonious environment for both tourists and locals. Social media activity has compounded the situation. One Facebook user posted that a local restaurant has refused entry to Israeli tourists. Another post, featuring a video, showed inebriated tourists behaving inappropriately, leading to fear among local businesses. The post's author expressed security concerns, feeling anxious with only two women managing the establishment. Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV Immigration Police Inspector, Police Lieutenant Colonel Wichai Panna, said efforts are underway to locate and question the tourists from the viral video to address the concerns raised by local businesses. In 2024, Pai saw 221,776 foreign tourists, including a significant number from Israel. However, official statistics often overestimate actual stays due to repeated accommodation reports for the same individuals as they move locations. Currently, it is estimated that around 2,000 to 3,000 Israeli tourists reside in Pai, a notable reduction from official figures, reported Amarin TV. RELATED TOPIC 4 Israeli men fined for causing chaos at hospital in Mae Hong Son https://aseannow.com/topic/1351023-4-israeli-men-fined-for-causing-chaos-at-hospital-in-mae-hong-son/ -- 2025-02-10

Sign in a Pai restaurant declaring "No Israel here". Picture courtesy: Amarin TV Rising Anti-Israel Sentiments in Pai Following Tourists Misconduct Tensions are simmering in Pai, Mae Hong Son, as anti-Semitic sentiments have surfaced, leading several businesses and a local restaurants to display signs stating that Israeli tourists are unwelcome. This reaction follows disturbances caused by certain Israeli travellers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351250-rising-anti-israel-sentiments-in-pai-following-tourist-misconduct/

Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul shuts down electricity supplies to five locations in Thailand-Myanmar border at the Provincial Electricity Authority headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, Feb. 5, 2025. (Provincial Electricity Authority via AP) China has praised Thailand for cutting electricity to disrupt scam centres in Myanmar, according to Thai Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul. This support follows Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's recent official visit to China, where allied efforts to tackle crime were a focal point. Returning from a diplomatic mission to China, Ms Paetongtarn met with Chinese President Xi Jinping, among other officials, to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation. The Chinese government commended Thailand's decisive action against scam centres by severing electricity, internet, and fuel supplies to five areas notorious for fraud activities along the Thai-Myanmar border. The Thai government's move, seen as a significant step in safeguarding national security, aims to dismantle operations run by criminal gangs that exploit forced labour to perpetrate fraud. This crackdown was necessitated by the broader implications of these operations, which compromise the security and interests of multiple countries. Despite the Thai government's intentions, the disruption has stirred unrest among Myanmar nationals living near the Thai border. In Tak province, over 100 protesters, mostly from Myawaddy in Kayin State, gathered to voice their discontent with the interruptions to daily life. They aimed to block key trade crossings between Thailand and Myanmar, reflecting the challenges people face due to the fallout from anti-fraud initiatives. The protests, while a direct response to the economic strain felt by households and small enterprises affected by the power cuts, bring to light the delicate balance between enforcement and humanitarian concerns. As protestors marched to the bridges connecting the nations, Myanmar police ensured the rally remained within Myanmar’s territory. The demonstrators have urged Myanmar officials to broker a resolution with Thai authorities, simultaneously calling for a boycott of Thai products and demanding the closure of key crossings to pressure a restoration of services. In anticipation of escalating issues, the National Security Council has indicated the potential for similar crackdowns in additional regions if criminal activity persists. Thailand's electricity supply extends beyond Myanmar, reaching Laos and Cambodia, where similar actions could be considered if necessary, highlighting the regional scope of these cooperative efforts. Thailand’s initiative seems bolstered by international support, notably from China, reinforcing the need for united efforts in combating cross-border crime. As this situation unfolds, maintaining peace and addressing both the root causes and consequences of these operations will be vital for regional stability, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-10

Picture courtesy: AoT Phuket Phuket International Airport's management is currently under scrutiny for corruption, though no official investigation has commenced. Concerns centre on four Airports of Thailand (AoT) management staff accused of mismanaging an 11.8 million baht (£256,000) contract for commemorative stickers, yet they remain employed as the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) continues to gather evidence. In late November, NACC officials from Bangkok conducted onsite inspections following the allegations. However, the commission's Phuket office chief, Suwat Saowarat, has confirmed that they are still in the evidence-collection phase and, as such, a formal investigation hasn't been initiated. The completion of this phase will dictate when the Central NACC might proceed with an official inquiry. The specific inquiries include collecting documents related to the contract, assessing budget allocations, and examining procurement methods and authorisation processes. These steps are crucial, especially given the discrepancies noted in the auction dates for the contract and the actual installation of the stickers, which occurred prior to the scheduled bidding. Meanwhile, the NACC has expressed concerns about AoT's delay in providing necessary documentation, a situation that may be stalling their progress. While the investigation remains informal, the AoT's internal mechanisms have reportedly taken disciplinary actions against the implicated staff. However, details of the actions or their severity have not been disclosed, citing internal policy reasons. Phasaramon Kanchanawanit, representing AoT communications, has assured that an internal AoT committee is reviewing the situation. Yet, the lack of external reporting to state-required agencies like the PACC or NACC has drawn criticism, reflecting possible gaps between internal procedures and formal legal obligations. Despite the seriousness of the accusations, the lack of formal investigation keeps the matter in a nebulous state. As of now, the NACC awaits further documentation to advance towards a potential official probe. Meanwhile, AoT's statement in August, which promised disciplinary action post-internal review, provides no clear insight into the measures taken against the accused. This situation underscores the challenges governmental oversight entities face in holding state-run enterprises accountable. The next steps will likely depend on the NACC’s ability to obtain comprehensive evidence, and whether AoT can justify its internal handling of the allegations transparently. For now, the spotlight remains on both AoT and NACC, as stakeholders await clarity and decisive action. This illustrates the balance that agencies must strike between internal review processes and ensuring accountability under public corruption laws, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-10

Emotional Reunion: Five Thai Hostages Return Home After Year in Gaza Captivity! Five Thai workers, who had been held hostage in Gaza for over a year, arrived back in Bangkok on Sunday. The freed individuals, Sarusak Rumnao, 32, Watchara Sriaoun, 33, Sathian Suwannakham, 35, Pongsak Thaenna, 36, and Bannawat Saethao, 27, were released on January 30 as part of an exchange arrangement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351264-emotional-reunion-five-thai-hostages-return-home-after-year-in-gaza-captivity/