webfact

Don’t fall for offers of being fast-tracked through airport Immigration say officials… there’s no such service. A senior official from Thailand’s Immigration Bureau has responded to an online ad offering a fast-track immigration service at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports. Choengron Rimphadee says the service, advertised at a cost of 2,900 baht per flight, doesn’t exist. The ad appeared on the website of a car rental company and swiftly came to the attention of immigration officials. The ad, which stated, “Fast track arrival-departure 2,900baht/flight” has now been removed. Choengron says airport immigration counters do not offer a fast-track option, but the process has been improved overall. By Peter Roche PHOTO: Flickr/Satya Witoelar Full story: PhuketGO 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai woman admits to Chinese man’s credit card theft in Pattaya by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ อีซ้อขยี้ข่าว A Thai woman finally confessed to stealing credit cards from a Chinese man after initially denying the theft. The thief even accused the foreigner of trying to rape her at his BBQ restaurant in Pattaya. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323495-thai-woman-admits-to-chinese-man’s-credit-card-theft-in-pattaya/

A Thai woman finally confessed to stealing credit cards from a Chinese man after initially denying the theft. The thief even accused the foreigner of trying to rape her at his BBQ restaurant in Pattaya. The Chinese victim, 33 year old Dihui Wu Dihui, sought help from Bang Lamung Police Station officers saying a Thai woman, later identified as 31 year old Darinrat, stole his credit cards and spent 32,815 baht at a gold shop. Darinrat later came forward to defend herself saying Dihui instructed her to withdraw 30,000 baht in cash from a gold shop and that she had already given him the money. Darinrat went on to accuse Dihui of attempting to rape her when they were at the man’s BBQ restaurant in Pattaya. She admitted to meeting Dihui on a dating site but insisted they were friends and not romantically involved. Dihui denied the allegation, saying he had no idea about the money withdrawal and never tried to rape her. Dihui said Darinrat looked nothing like her profile picture on the dating app. He did not like her and did not want to have sex with her. After a period of blaming each other, Darinrat finally confessed to stealing the Chinese man’s credit cards to withdraw money from the gold shop. She apologised to the public for causing chaos and confusion. Darinrat faces imprisonment of up to five years, a fine of up to 100,000 baht, or both for violating Section 269/5 of the Criminal Law: using another person’s credit card in a way that may cause harm to the cardholder or the public. Darinrat left a message for Dihui saying he also looked different from his profile picture on the dating app. His picture showed that he had hair but he did not. However, Darinrat insisted that she did not care because she only saw him as a friend. UPDATE 1: Thai woman denies stealing from Chinese man, accuses him of rape attempt A Thai woman denied stealing credit cards from a Chinese man and accused him of attempting to rape her at his BBQ restaurant in Pattaya. The 33 year old Chinese man, Dihui Wu Dihui, filed a complaint at Bang Lamung Police Station in Pattaya on March 13, accusing a Thai woman he met on a dating app of stealing his credit cards. He said the woman disappeared with his credit cards and spent 32,815 baht at a gold shop. The news Facebook page, Esor News, also accused the woman of being a romance scammer, alleging that she deceived several men via dating applications and frequently changed her profiles to avoid detection. The accused woman came forward to assert her innocence, stating that she did not steal anything from Dihui. She also claimed that he attempted to rape her on the same day of the incident. During a press conference on March 21, the woman disclosed that she met Dihui on a dating app and continued their conversation on WeChat. She maintained that they were just friends and had no romantic relationship. The woman explained that she used dating apps to find friends due to her depression and lack of social connections, as she ran an online bakery and often stayed at home. According to the woman, Dihui invited her to his BBQ restaurant in Pattaya on March 13. She accepted the invitation as he did not exhibit any suspicious or violent behaviour. She said the restaurant operated on the first floor of a four-story building, with accommodations on the floors above. They did not stay at a hotel but at Dihui’s restaurant. Each side claims innocence The woman claimed that Dihui asked her to withdraw 30,000 baht from his credit cards and instructed her to withdraw 10,000 baht each time. He asked her to withdraw the money at a gold shop by using the credit cards to buy gold accessories and later resold the gold to the shop for cash. The woman said she followed his instructions and returned to the restaurant around noon, returning the credit cards and giving Dihui the cash. While they were in Dihui’s room, he allegedly demanded sex from the woman, but she refused. He purportedly attempted to force himself on her but she managed to escape his advances. The woman said Dihui tried to rape and attack her a few times but was unsuccessful. She subsequently informed Dihui of her intention to return to Bangkok, which angered him, leading him to seize her mobile phone. When Dihui vanished from the scene, she seized the opportunity to escape from him. The woman recounted how she hailed a motorcycle taxi to a shopping mall, seeking assistance from a phone service provider to report her phone as lost and deactivate its SIM card signal. Afterwards, she took a taxi back to Bangkok. The Chinese man revisited Bang Lamung Police Station, reiterating his denial of attempting to sexually assault the woman. He expressed his dissatisfaction, citing the difference between the woman’s actual appearance and her dating profile picture. Additionally, he accused the woman of stealing his credit cards. Police confirmed conducting a comprehensive investigation into the incident but refrained from disclosing further details at present. However, officers assured the public that they would soon ascertain the truth. ORIGINAL STORY: Golden getaway: Thai woman swipes Chinese man’s credit cards in Pattaya A Thai woman is on the run after stealing credit cards from a Chinese man to buy two gold necklaces valued at about 33,000 baht from a gold shop in Pattaya. Bang Lamung Police Station told Channel 8 that the 33 year old Chinese man, Dihui Wu Dihui, reported the theft of his credit cards to the police via a phone call on the afternoon of March 13. He explained that a Thai woman, whose identity he did not know, stole his credit cards while he was sleeping. The Chinese man disclosed that he had met the woman on a dating application while he was in Bangkok. A week before the incident, they were travelling together in Pattaya and stayed at a hotel in Soi Khao Talo. According to the Chinese man, he woke up on March 13 to see that the woman disappeared from his hotel room. Then, he received two messages from his banks on his mobile phone informing him that his credit cards had been used to buy gold necklaces worth 32,815 baht. Thai police officer Sornsuphan Audthonsri-anan reported that he did not understand Dihui’s complaint due to the language barrier. So, they requested Dihui to meet them at the police station later, providing a Chinese interpreter. However, Dihui did not appear at the scheduled time. According to the Facebook page, Esor New, the Thai thief remains at large, evading capture. The page alleges that Dihui wasn’t the initial target of this woman. She has been running a romance scam through a dating application for a while now, frequently altering her name and profile on the app to ensnare fresh victims. Thai netizens questioned why the gold shop approved the sales despite the differences in the woman’s signatures and names on the cards. Channel 8 reported that the owner of the gold shop refused to give an interview with the media. However, in a brief conversation, it was revealed that the woman used two credit cards to buy two gold necklaces until the credit limit was reached. The owner added that she allowed the woman to buy the products because there were no names or signatures of the cardholders on the back of the cards. Bang Lamung Police Station officers did not disclose the next steps of the investigation to the public. by Petch Petpailin TOP Photo via Facebook/ อีซ้อขยี้ข่าว Surce: The Thaiger 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok police nab repeat offender with drugs worth thousands by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Bangkok’s narcotics suppression police made a significant arrest yesterday, detaining a 35 year old drug dealer in the Bang Sue district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323493-bangkok-police-nab-repeat-offender-with-drugs-worth-thousands/

Bangkok’s narcotics suppression police made a significant arrest yesterday, detaining a 35 year old drug dealer in the Bang Sue district. The individual, Thawatchai, had been covertly distributing drugs to local youth and was found with a substantial stash of methamphetamine, ecstasy, ketamine, and Yaba pills at his residence. This latest operation was led by Police Colonel Suradet Chatthai, the chief of Tao Poon Police Station, and his deputy, Police Lieutenant Colonel Apiwat Aaj-in. It followed a meticulous investigation by the narcotics team, resulting in a court-approved search warrant. Upon searching Thawatchai’s home at 52/42 Soi Pracha Rat Sai 1 Soi 36, police uncovered a stash of drugs hidden within a first-floor storage cabinet, which included 87.17 grams of methamphetamine, 319 ecstasy pills, 688.47 grams of ketamine, and 76 Yaba pills. After questioning, Thawatchai confessed that the drugs were indeed his and that he had bought them from a man named Ya, whose full name and surname he claimed not to know, near the Wat Soi Thong temple. Following his admission, he was charged and taken into custody by the Tao Poon Police Station for further investigation, reported KhaoSod. A check into Thawatchai’s criminal history revealed a troubling pattern, he had been arrested on multiple drug-related charges several times over the past decade, from the ages of 25 to 35. Despite serving several years in prison, Thawatchai had seemingly not reformed, returning to his criminal activities each time he was released. This persistent defiance of the law has once again landed him in the hands of the police. In related news, police arrested a 55 year old Thai man on February 22 for allegedly peddling drugs to teenagers and harbouring illegal firearms in Naklua, Bang Lamung, Chon Buri. The suspect, identified only as Gomol, fell into the police net following an extensive covert probe. Seizing the moment, authorities swooped in and confiscated two bags containing a staggering 9.19 grammes of methamphetamine along with drug paraphernalia. Moreover, hidden amongst Gomol’s possessions was a homemade air-pressure long gun, ammunition, and a mysterious cylinder, raising eyebrows and suspicions alike. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Exiled former celebrity minister Jakrapob returns to Thailand by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation A former television celebrity and one-time Minister of the Prime Minister’s Office has set tongues wagging with his unexpected announcement of returning to Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323438-jakrapob-coming-back-after-15-years-in-self-exile/?do=findComment&comment=18799537

Exiled former celebrity minister Jakrapob returns to Thailand by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation A former television celebrity and one-time Minister of the Prime Minister’s Office has set tongues wagging with his unexpected announcement of returning to Thailand. This marks his comeback after a self-imposed exile lasting 15 years, undertaken to avoid lese majeste charges. Jakrapob Penkair posted on Facebook yesterday: “At 7.35 am on March 28, I will return to serve Thailand.” The ex-minister, who served under the administration of former PM Samak Sundaravej, was forced to step down in May 2008 amidst accusations of defaming the monarchy stemming from a speech he delivered at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Thailand on August 29, 2007. Despite the case against him being dropped by the public prosecutor in September 2011, the turbulent political landscape saw Jakrapob facing renewed scrutiny following the 2014 military coup. The junta-led National Council of Peace and Order revived charges against him, culminating in a warrant for his arrest for defiance against the ruling military. Adding fuel to the fire, allegations in 2017 implicated him in possessing firearms linked to past political unrest, further complicating his legal standing, reported The Nation. As the nation braces for his return, speculation runs rife about potential legal repercussions awaiting the erstwhile political talk show host, who once served as the government spokesman for Thaksin Shinawatra and held the role of PM’s Office minister under Samak’s tenure. In related news, a court in Nakhon Si Thammarat officially declared activist Surachai Danwattananusorn missing, igniting concerns over his fate after years of silence since his exile in Laos in 2018. The ruling, delivered on Monday, February 12, grants his wife, Pranee Danwattananusorn, the authority to handle his assets, shedding light on the ordeal endured by his family in the absence of any trace of him. In other news, Amnesty International Thailand urged the Pheu Thai-led administration to immediately free political activist Arnon Nampa, who stands accused of insulting the monarchy. Despite facing serious threats from Thai conservative groups, the pressure mounts for his release. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai labour unions criticise new daily minimum wage by Mitch Connor Business proposal purchase hands holding money. Picture courtesy of rawpixel, Freepik The Thai Labour Solidarity Confederation (TLSC) and State Enterprises Workers’ Relations Confederation (SEWRC) expressed disapproval of the new daily minimum wage of 400 baht approved by the tripartite wage committee. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323491-thai-labour-unions-criticise-new-daily-minimum-wage/

The Thai Labour Solidarity Confederation (TLSC) and State Enterprises Workers’ Relations Confederation (SEWRC) expressed disapproval of the new daily minimum wage of 400 baht approved by the tripartite wage committee. The wage increase is only applicable to some areas in 10 provinces, initiating a wave of criticism from the labour unions, who argue that this decision is unjust. According to the unions, this wage discrepancy among workers within the same province will generate inequalities. They argue that despite the cost of basic commodities and services remaining consistent across the provinces, the wage disparity will create an unfair system. They urge the government and Labour Ministry to eliminate wage inequalities and maintain a uniform daily minimum wage of no less than 400 baht (US$11), ideally 492 baht (US$14). In a statement issued by the unions, they categorically labelled the adjustment as the worst change to the country’s wage system. They proposed the minimum wage to serve as the entry-level compensation, insisting on a structured wage system that provides incentives to workers across all businesses. They hinted at possible further action if their demands aren’t met. Sitthipong Sitthipatprapa, a leading figure among hotel operators in Songkhla’s Hat Yai district, also voiced concerns over the wage increase. He argues that the wage increase will negatively impact businesses, especially since the room prices and service charges in the 10 provinces affected by the wage increase vary. The hotel association in Hat Yai-Songkhla is planning a discussion over the wage increase and is considering submitting a plea to the government for a review of the decision. Pairoj Chotikasathien, permanent secretary for the Labour Ministry and chairman of the committee, clarified that the wage increase would apply to tourism-related businesses and four-star hotels with a minimum of 50 employees, reported Bangkok Post. The wage increase is set to be effective from April 13 and will be implemented in specific areas including Bangkok’s Pathumwan and Watthana districts, Chiang Mai’s Nakhon Chiang Mai municipality, all of Phuket, the area under the jurisdiction of tambon Ao Nang administrative organisation in Krabi, Songkhla’s Hat Yai municipality, Surat Thani’s Koh Samui district, Phang Nga’s tambon Khuk Khak municipality, Pattaya City in Chon Buri, Prachuap Khiri Khan’s Hua Hin municipality and Rayong’s tambon Ban Phae. by Mitch Connor Business proposal purchase hands holding money. Picture courtesy of rawpixel, Freepik Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand passes marriage equality bill, Toyota to build EV pick-ups - TNT - March 28 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323486-thailand-passes-marriage-equality-bill-toyota-to-build-ev-pick-ups-tnt-march-28/

Thailand news - Thailand's lower house of parliament has shown almost full support for a Marriage Equality Bill which gives full and equal rights to LGBT+ citizens, the British Ambassador to Thailand provides his personal perspective, big announcement about the 10,000 baht digital wallet coming on April 10, the GT200, fake bomb and drug detector, still makes headlines after 15 years of controversy. The Bangkok Motor Show had a few announcements - Toyota in Thailand to start building EV versions of their popular pick-ups, and Vietnam's VinFast brand. Tim Newton Today is daily news commentary about Thai and the region, including issues of interest to expats and travellers to Thailand.

Thai man defends himself after woman accuses him of sex scam by Petch Petpailin Photo via Naewna A Thai woman accused a man of using a fake online profile to trick her into meeting him at a resort in Udon Thani for sex. The accused man denied the allegations and shared a different side of the story to the public. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323485-thai-man-defends-himself-after-woman-accuses-him-of-sex-scam/

A Thai woman accused a man of using a fake online profile to trick her into meeting him at a resort in Udon Thani for sex. The accused man denied the allegations and shared a different side of the story to the public. A resort owner in the Nonghan district of Udon Thani urged Nonghan Police Station to come and help his guest on March 25. The owner said a female guest arrived at the resort with a man but seemed unwilling to be with him and sent a note to her employees. “Please help! He deceived me to meet him here.” Officers arrived at the resort and immediately raided accommodation number 9. The 35 year old woman, identified only as Jiab, exited the room together with a 29 year old man called Aon. No physical altercations or injuries were visible at the scene. Jiab informed police that she met Aon on a dating application and travelled from her home in the Isaan province of Sakhon Nakhon to meet him in Udon Thani. Aon took her to lunch and then to the resort. Jiab said she was shocked and could not engage in any sexual activity with Aon because he looked completely different from his profile picture. She wanted to return home, so she sought help from the resort employees. Jiab added that it was not only about Aon’s appearance but he also lied to her. Aon told her he was a police lieutenant but he was just a cattle seller. Aon insisted that he did not force Jiab into sex and did not hurt her. Officers did not issue any charges against him and asked Aon to stop contacting Jiab. Police then escorted Jiab to a bus terminal for her return journey to Sakhon Nakhon. Man defends himself Aon stepped forward to offer his side of the story to Naewna. He maintained that he had neither utilised a false profile nor altered his photograph on the dating application. Subsequently, he presented his profile to the reporters as evidence to support his assertion. Aon added that he had not told Jiab that he held the rank of police lieutenant. Instead, he had indicated that he was a “Nai Hoi,” a term denoting a cattle vendor in Thai, which might have been misinterpreted as “Nai Roi,” signifying police lieutenant. Aon claimed that Jiab initiated a contact on the dating app. They talked to each other until Aon learned that Jiab had debt and lost her job. Jiab expressed her desire to meet him but lacked money. Aon admitted he liked Jiab and wanted to meet her, so he offered to pay for her transport. Aon mentioned Jiab even proposed a sexual service, and they agreed on a price within the app. From the screenshot of their conversation, the two engaged in a conversation below: Jiab: “Can you pay me if we have sex? I need money because I can’t find a job.” Aon: “How much?” Jiab: “I’m not sure about the rate. I’ve never done this before.” Aon: “Me neither. You can suggest any rate. When will you come?” Jiab: “Today?” Aon: “Okay. Let’s discuss the price.” Aon stated Jiab asked for 3,000 baht from him but he negotiated to 1,500 baht. After agreeing on the price, he treated Jiab to lunch and then went to the resort. However, Jiab suddenly declined when they were about to engage in sexual activity and the police later intervened, leaving him confused. Aon revealed that he even gave Jiab 1,500 baht on that day as they already agreed and he did not want it back. He warned Jiab not to do the same thing to other men. Aon said that he was not scared of using the dating app and still hoped to find a woman who would accept him and build a family together. A 29 year old Thai man named Aon | Photo via Naewna Aon’s profile picture on a dating application | Photo via Naewna by Petch Petpailin TOP Photo via Naewna Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok scorched at 38°C with thunderstorms looming by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of lifeforstock, Freepik Bangkok and its surrounding regions are experiencing scorching temperatures today, with highs reaching a blistering 38 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, thunderstorms are predicted in some areas of the northeastern and eastern provinces. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323482-bangkok-scorched-at-38°c-with-thunderstorms-looming/

Bangkok and its surrounding regions are experiencing scorching temperatures today, with highs reaching a blistering 38 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, thunderstorms are predicted in some areas of the northeastern and eastern provinces. The latest forecast by the Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) indicates that a low-pressure system, caused by intense heat covering the upper parts of Thailand, is contributing to the severe weather, with scorching conditions persisting and thunderstorms expected during the day in some localities. In the north, the heat is unrelenting, with similar conditions of thunderstorms covering 10% of the area, particularly in the provinces of Phitsanulok and Phetchabun. With minimum temperatures ranging from 19 to 25 degrees Celsius and maximums soaring to 37 to 40 degrees Celsius, the contrast between day and night temperatures is stark. The northeastern region is not spared, with thunderstorms expected in 20% of the area, affecting provinces such as Loei, Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nong Bua Lamphu, Khon Kaen, Buri Ram, Surin, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani. The temperatures there are slightly cooler, with lows of 21 to 26 degrees Celsius and highs between 34 and 38 degrees Celsius. Central Thailand, with provinces like Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Lopburi, Saraburi, and Ayutthaya, is also feeling the heat. Here, thunderstorms are expected in 10% of the region, with temperature lows of 24 to 27 degrees Celsius and highs between 36 and 40 degrees Celsius. The eastern region, including Prachinburi, Sa Kaeo, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat, is experiencing similar weather patterns, with thunderstorms in 20% of the area and temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius at night to 33 to 37 degrees Celsius during the day. Sea conditions are relatively calm with waves less than 1 metre high, but areas with thunderstorms may see waves exceeding this height. The southern region, particularly the eastern coast encompassing Surat Thani, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat, is not exempt from the heat with daytime temperatures. Thunderstorms are likely in 10% of this region, with cooler temperatures ranging from 23 to 26 degrees Celsius and maximum temperatures reaching 33 to 38 degrees Celsius. The sea here is also expected to be moderately calm, with wave heights around 1 metre, but this could increase in stormy conditions. Temperature rises On the west coast, including popular tourist destinations such as Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun, the weather is similarly hot, with thunderstorms in 20% of the area. The temperatures here range from 24 to 27 degrees Celsius at night to 35 to 38 degrees Celsius during the day, with the sea presenting waves around 1 metre high, increasing in storm-affected zones, reported KhaoSod. The weather conditions in Bangkok and the vicinity mimic the broader regional pattern, with occasional thunderstorms in 10% of the area and temperatures ranging from a minimum of 29 to 30 degrees Celsius to a maximum of 36 to 38 degrees Celsius. Residents and visitors alike are advised to stay hydrated and to seek shelter during thunderstorms, as the weather remains unpredictable with sudden changes in conditions. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of lifeforstock, Freepik Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

PM Urged To Take Action Against Police Chief Over Alleged Money-Extortion, Laundering Scams By Thai Newsroom Reporters Lawyer Sittra Biabungkerd, right, and Pol. Gen. Torsak Sukvimol, left. Photo: Matichon PRIME MINISTER SRETTHA Thavisin was yesterday (Mar. 27) encouraged to promptly take legal action against suspended Police Chief Pol. Gen. Torsak Sukvimol suspected of involvement in money-extortion, laundering scams. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323481-pm-urged-to-take-action-against-police-chief-over-alleged-money-extortion-laundering-scams/

PRIME MINISTER SRETTHA Thavisin was yesterday (Mar. 27) encouraged to promptly take legal action against suspended Police Chief Pol. Gen. Torsak Sukvimol suspected of involvement in money-extortion, laundering scams. Prominent lawyer Sittra Biabungkerd insisted the prime minister issue a directive for the authorities to take legal action against the police chief on grounds of alleged involvement in the extorting and laundering of hundreds of millions of baht in cash collected monthly from illegal online gambling operators. Sittra said he has gathered pieces of evidence from unidentified police officers and private detectives pertaining to the alleged extortion and laundering of the ill-gained money from online gambling operators to Pol. Gen. Torsak’s close relatives and others via “horse-account” holders on a monthly basis or occasionally contributed it in the name of the police chief to merit-making rituals at Buddhist temples. By Thai Newsroom Reporters TOP: Lawyer Sittra Biabungkerd, right, and Pol. Gen. Torsak Sukvimol, left. Photo: Matichon Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Gay couple arrested in Bangkok for drug and extortion operations by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ สืบนครบาล IDMB Police yesterday arrested a gay couple at a condominium in Nonthaburi province for drug sales and money extortion operations, targeting medical workers and high-flyers in the educational field. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323478-gay-couple-arrested-in-bangkok-for-drug-and-extortion-operations/

Police yesterday arrested a gay couple at a condominium in Nonthaburi province for drug sales and money extortion operations, targeting medical workers and high-flyers in the educational field. A Thai doctor sought help from the Investigation Division of the Metropolitan Bureau (IDMB) after falling victim to a 37 year old gay man named Krittaphat, also known as Top. Top got the doctor hooked on drugs and extorted money from him. The doctor claimed that he was not the first victim, adding that Top targeted healthcare professionals in the LGBTQA+ community. According to the victim, Top approached him saying he was a cardiologist and lured him into using a drug by claiming it was a supplement. The doctor said he eventually became addicted to the drug. He was forced to have sex with Top on video so he could get more of the drug. Top also cheated him out of money, almost making him bankrupt. Fortunately, the doctor managed to break out of the cycle. Further investigation into Top’s identity revealed a close association with another gay man, 42 year old Srettayot, also known as Keng, who was allegedly a drug lord. Keng is the deputy director of a school in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok, which made him well known among LGBTQA+ government officials, especially those working in the education field. Keng frequently invited those officials to drug parties at his condominium and urged them to engage in group sex. Drug dealers Officers raided Ken’s condo room yesterday, March 26, and arrested both Keng and Top on the spot. Police seized 100 grammes of crystal meth, two bags of ketamine, 31,500 baht in cash, five bank accounts, 200 condoms, 100 packs of lubricating gel, 50 packs of Viagra, 100 pieces of drug paraphernalia, gay pornography, and other equipment related to drug sales. Keng denied the accusation and claimed that all of the illegal products were used as teaching materials. Officers were not convinced when they found a notebook with details of drug customers and more than 1.3 million baht in Keng’s bank account over the previous three months. Keng and Top eventually had to admit to the crime due to the clear evidence. Keng said he began using drugs last year and only became a dealer this year. He sold drugs to friends, young people in the community and government officials. Top revealed that he finished his bachelor’s degree at a faculty of engineering and continued his master’s degree. He worked for an events company before becoming an insurance agent. Top said his life turned upside down when he started using drugs in 2014. He was jailed for a year and three months for drug offences and was unable to find work when he was released, so he had to return to selling drugs. Officers expressed concern that high-ranking officials in the education sector might be involved with Keng and Top, posing a threat to children in schools. They urged anyone with relevant information to come forward to the police. by Petch Petpailin TOP Photo via Facebook/ สืบนครบาล IDMB Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

45th Bangkok International Motor Show held in Thailand Source: Xinhua | Editor: huaxia A visitor looks at a BYD e-Platform 3.0 during the 45th Bangkok International Motor Show in Bangkok, Thailand, March 27, 2024. The 45th Bangkok International Motor Show kicked off here on Wednesday and will last until April 7. (Xinhua/Wang Teng) Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323474-45th-bangkok-international-motor-show-held-in-thailand/

A visitor looks at a BYD e-Platform 3.0 during the 45th Bangkok International Motor Show in Bangkok, Thailand, March 27, 2024. The 45th Bangkok International Motor Show kicked off here on Wednesday and will last until April 7. (Xinhua/Wang Teng) Visitors look at a MG Cyberster during the 45th Bangkok International Motor Show in Bangkok, Thailand, March 27, 2024. The 45th Bangkok International Motor Show kicked off here on Wednesday and will last until April 7. (Xinhua/Wang Teng) A visitor experiences a Xpeng P7i during the 45th Bangkok International Motor Show in Bangkok, Thailand, March 27, 2024. The 45th Bangkok International Motor Show kicked off here on Wednesday and will last until April 7. (Xinhua/Wang Teng) A visitor takes photos of a Hyper SSR at the booth of GAC Aion during the 45th Bangkok International Motor Show in Bangkok, Thailand, March 27, 2024. The 45th Bangkok International Motor Show kicked off here on Wednesday and will last until April 7. (Xinhua/Wang Teng) Visitors look at a Lumin of Changan Auto during the 45th Bangkok International Motor Show in Bangkok, Thailand, March 27, 2024. The 45th Bangkok International Motor Show kicked off here on Wednesday and will last until April 7. (Xinhua/Wang Teng) Source: Xinhua | Editor: huaxia Source: XINHUA 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bitcoin forecast to break US$80,000 barrier by year-end due to market trends by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Kanchanara, Unsplash Cryptocurrency prices, particularly Bitcoin, have experienced an unexpected surge this year. The world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, Binance’s chief executive, Richard Teng, previously predicted Bitcoin would conclude 2024 at approximately US$80,000. However, current market trends indicate that Bitcoin could surpass that figure before the year ends. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323470-bitcoin-forecast-to-break-us80000-barrier-by-year-end-due-to-market-trends/

Cryptocurrency prices, particularly Bitcoin, have experienced an unexpected surge this year. The world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, Binance’s chief executive, Richard Teng, previously predicted Bitcoin would conclude 2024 at approximately US$80,000. However, current market trends indicate that Bitcoin could surpass that figure before the year ends. Bitcoin’s popularity has been on the rise, reaching an all-time high of US$73,750 in mid-March. This represents a 56% increase since the start of the year, outperforming its 2021 peak of US$68,000. Despite a significant drop in value following the unsettling reports of high US inflation in February, Bitcoin managed to rebound, with its price exceeding US$70,000 for the first time in over a week. The phenomenal rise in Bitcoin prices can be attributed to several factors. The launch of spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs) earlier this year led to a 350% surge in prices, recovering from a slump to US$15,000. The US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) approved 11 spot Bitcoin ETFs on January 10, 2024, marking a significant shift in regulatory attitudes towards cryptocurrency. The approval of spot Bitcoin ETFs had two significant impacts. Firstly, it enhanced the legitimacy of the asset class as the traditionally cautious SEC eased regulatory constraints. Secondly, the ETFs altered the supply and demand dynamics as providers had to purchase physical Bitcoin to offer the product. Other jurisdictions are also considering the approval of similar products. Furthermore, the Bitcoin halving event, which happens roughly every four years, is anticipated to boost prices. The halving event reduces the volume of new Bitcoin entering the market, limiting the incentive for miners. According to Suphasit Sitthisaovapark, head of product development and investment strategy at Asset Plus Fund Management, investors have purchased 5% of total Bitcoin supplies since the launch of spot Bitcoin ETFs in January. The upcoming halving event next month could trigger supply shocks. Bitcoin prices Political factors could also play a role in the rise of Bitcoin prices. If the Republican Party, considered supportive of digital assets, wins the upcoming US presidential election, Bitcoin prices could receive an additional boost. The macroeconomic backdrop is also encouraging for Bitcoin. Bitcoin prices could benefit from the anticipated interest rate cuts in the US. Unlike the previous record high in November 2021, the current rally is taking place despite positive real yields. Market expectations for three rate cuts by the Federal Reserve this year provide a favourable environment for Bitcoin. A quicker or deeper cutting cycle could be a bullish driver for the asset. The future trajectory of Bitcoin prices remains uncertain. However, research from 10x Research suggests that the recent surge is a positive sign. The current uptrend is supported by several central banks adopting dovish stances. Sanjay Popli, chief executive of Cryptomind Advisory, predicts prices could reach between US$100,000 and US$150,000 during the second and fourth quarters of 2025. Robert Kiyosaki, an entrepreneur and author, predicts a Bitcoin price of US$100,000 by September 2024, reported Bangkok Post. In conclusion, the rise in Bitcoin prices can be attributed to a combination of regulatory shifts, market dynamics, and political factors. As the market continues to evolve, investors need to stay informed and consider their options carefully. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Kanchanara, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand and the Philippines to sign tourism MoU By TTR WEEKLY MANILA, 28 March 2024: The Philippines and Thailand should sign the “two-country, one-destination” initiative as early as this June, according to a report by the Philippines News Agency that quoted a reliable diplomatic source. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1323467-thailand-and-the-philippines-to-sign-tourism-mou/

MANILA, 28 March 2024: The Philippines and Thailand should sign the “two-country, one-destination” initiative as early as this June, according to a report by the Philippines News Agency that quoted a reliable diplomatic source. The PNA report said the two governments would ramp up promotions to encourage two-way tourism and tourists from third countries to visit both Thailand and the Philippines when in Southeast Asia. “A memorandum of understanding (MOU) on tourism cooperation between Thailand and the Philippines includes the two-country, one-destination concept. One of the priorities outlined in the proposed MoU calls for direct flights between secondary cities in the two countries. For example, a new route from Cebu to Phuket in Thailand could be developed. That could involve supporting airlines to develop routes that tourists visiting the region could book to visit beach resorts in both countries. By TTR WEEKLY Full story: TTR WEEKLY 2024-03-28 - Discover how Cigna Insurance can protect you with a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment. For more information on expat health insurance click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe