webfact

The violent Russian woman who blamed her period for assaulting a pregnant Thai woman in Koh Pha Ngan has been fined 500 baht and handed a suspended 15-day jail sentence. Immigration authorities in Surat Thani are deliberating whether to revoke her visa due to the criminal offence. Alena Kupriyanova, the Russian woman in question, confessed to kicking the shop owner, who is eight months pregnant, on Monday out of frustration after being asked to remove her shoes before entering a coffee shop. The pregnant shop owner opted to file charges against the 41 year old Russian woman to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. Kupriyanova cited menstruation as the reason for her behaviour on that day, claiming it had affected her mood. Her Thai visa was reported to be valid until May 22, reported Bangkok Post. This incident marks the latest in a series of reports detailing misbehaviour by tourists. Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul downplayed public concerns regarding a perceived rise in such incidents, asserting that foreigners who violate Thailand’s laws will face prosecution. He referenced a recent case in which two New Zealand brothers were prosecuted and subsequently had their visas revoked after assaulting a police officer in Phuket. “Visa revocation is decided on a case-by-case basis and not that every foreigner who breaks the law will end up being deported.” Statistics gathered by the Royal Thai Police from October of last year until this month indicate that 614 foreigners have been subject to legal proceedings for committing crimes in Thailand. Of these, 98 people have been deported as a result. In many instances, police have noted that these foreigners have faced prosecution for employing nominees to hold shares on their behalf in companies established with concealed intentions to provide work permits to other foreigners. Picture courtesy of Facebook/ Satika Oz UPDATE: Russian woman blames period for assault on pregnant Thai shopkeeper A Russian woman accused of assaulting a pregnant Thai shopkeeper on the island of Koh Pha Ngan, located in the province of Surat Thani, claimed that she did it because she was on her period. The woman, identified as Alena, was escorted to court today, March 20, by local Thai police. The authorities are considering requesting the immigration bureau to revoke her visa. The alleged assault took place in a nearby coffee shop, situated next to an organic vegetable store owned by the complainant, 34 year old Ploy. The expectant mother, now in her eighth month of pregnancy, accused Alena of kicking her in the right groin, prompting her to report the incident to the police. Subsequently, Alena was charged under Section 295 of the Criminal Code for assault leading to physical and mental harm. The repercussions of this offence could include a prison sentence of up to two years and/or a fine of up to 40,000 baht. While being escorted to Koh Samui Provincial Court, Alena was accompanied by a male compatriot. She disregarded any questions from the press and seemed disturbed when pictures were taken of her before she entered a police vehicle. According to Ploy, the incident occurred around 1pm on March 18 when Alena entered the store, disregarding the no shoes policy indicated on the door sign. Ploy alleges that despite being asked in English to remove her shoes, Alena disregarded the request and subsequently kicked her twice in the right leg before exiting the store. The police were promptly notified and were able to locate Alena and bring her to Koh Pha Ngan Police Station to face charges. During questioning, Alena allegedly admitted to the assault and offered an apology to Satika. She claimed her aggressive behaviour was due to her being on her period. Surat Thani Police Chief, Police Major General Sermphan Sirikhong, has ordered his team to pursue the case and press charges. The victim will be provided with assistance as per the law, and the immigration office in Surat Thani will be petitioned to consider revoking Alena’s visa. Ploy recollected that there were two other foreign customers present in the store when the incident occurred. She reiterated that she had asked Alena to remove her shoes as she sells organic herbal products and wanted to maintain cleanliness. She was taken aback by Alena’s violent response and instinctively shielded her stomach, given her advanced pregnancy. She accepted Alena’s apology but insisted on letting the police handle the case to avoid a recurrence of such incidents. ORIGINAL STORY: Pregnant Thai woman seeks justice after Russian assault in Koh Pha Ngan A pregnant Thai woman turned to social media for justice after a Russian woman kicked her yesterday at a coffee shop in Koh Pha Ngan, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani. The Thai victim, known only as Ploy, shared pictures of the Russian woman with blonde hair on a Facebook group called Facebook Koh Pha Ngan, yesterday, March 18. In her post, she stated… “This Russian woman physically assaulted me, an eight-month-pregnant woman, by kicking me. Does anyone know her or where she stays? Please inform me if you meet this woman. I will never give up on taking legal action against her.” Later, Ploy discovered the Russian woman’s Instagram account and shared it in the group. According to her bio, the foreigner claimed to be an actress, model, and designer based in Koh Pha Ngan. However, her Instagram account was later set to private, and all bio information was deleted. Ploy later revealed to Channel 3 that she owns an organic vegetable shop on the island, located next to the coffee shop where the incident took place. On the day of the incident, the Russian woman entered the coffee shop wearing her shoes, despite warnings from other local customers and a sign outside that she had to take them off before entering the establishment. Vulgar language Ploy noticed that the Russian woman seemed to have difficulty understanding the Thai language spoken by the locals. Deciding to help, Ploy approached and explained about the shoes in English. However, the Russian woman responded with vulgar language, prompting Ploy to ask her to leave. Following the request to leave, the Russian woman became enraged and kicked Ploy in the groin. Ploy, who was eight months pregnant, feared for her unborn child as the kick narrowly missed her abdomen. Subsequently, the Russian woman left the shop without offering any apologies. Ploy then complained to Koh Pha Ngan Police Station, providing CCTV footage of the incident as evidence. Ploy told Channel 3 that the Russian woman’s boyfriend tried to seek help from a local politician in the province to evade charges. However, Ploy insisted that she would not drop the charges, saying the incident insulted her dignity as a Thai resident. Authorities from Koh Pha Ngan and the Immigration Office reportedly identified the woman and planned to summon her for questioning. They also intended to review her visa status, as some netizens suggested she might be working in Thailand without permission. by Bob Scott Picture of the Russian woman, identified Alena, courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-22 - 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 denies stealing from Chinese man, accuses him of rape attempt by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ PPTV HD 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. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322995-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 Photo via Facebook/ PPTV HD Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-22 - 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

Northeast Thailand: Son murders father in family dispute by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A family tragedy unfolded in Non Sang, Nong Bua Lamphu province when a son murdered his father in a moment of apparent self-defence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322994-northeast-thailand-son-murders-father-in-family-dispute/

A family tragedy unfolded in Non Sang, Nong Bua Lamphu province when a son murdered his father in a moment of apparent self-defence. The harrowing incident, which took place yesterday evening, resulted in an urgent manhunt for the perpetrator, who is now urged to surrender to the authorities. The deceased, Songsakran, was known by locals for his drastic change of behaviour when under the influence of alcohol. According to his 81 year old father, Chingchai, Songsakran was a good person when sober but became aggressive and quarrelsome after drinking. Chingchai described how his son, who had been separated from his wife, had left his three young children in the care of Chingchai and his wife since the eldest was five years old. Songsakran only recently returned to live with his family after a prolonged absence. The heated argument that led to the tragedy was between Songsakran and his eldest son, Witthawat. Songsakran, returning home after a day of work and drinking, became embroiled in a dispute with Witthawat, who was preparing a meal. Threatening to shoot his son, Songsakran’s outburst prompted Chingchai to intervene, urging Witthawat to leave the house for safety. However, as Witthawat departed, Songsakran fired a gun, resulting in a struggle where Chingchai himself was struck with the weapon, causing injury. Believing his grandfather was in danger, Witthawat returned to the scene. He confronted his father, questioning why he would attack the man who had raised him and his siblings. Amid confusion and chaos, a third grandson, Witthawat’s younger brother, tried to intervene, but it was too late. Songsakran had already been fatally wounded by Witthawat, who, in a state of panic, fled the scene. Called to surrender Chingchai, in a heartfelt appeal, has since encouraged his grandson to surrender, emphasising that the young man still has a future ahead of him. The local police have issued an arrest warrant for Witthawat on charges of parricide. The family and community now await his surrender, hoping for a peaceful resolution to this tragic episode. Meanwhile, relatives have begun funeral rites for Songsakran. Authorities are calling for Witthawat to present himself to the police, stressing that escape is futile, reported KhaoSod. They are closely monitoring potential hideouts, including the homes of relatives and friends. They suggest that a cooperative approach may lead to leniency in his sentencing. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-22 - 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

Scientists spooked by ghost shark sighting off Thailand coast (video) by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Andrew Black Scientists have been spooked by the ghoulish discovery of a ghost shark swimming off the Andaman coast of Thailand. Researchers revealed the ghost shark is a new species named Chimaera supapae. It boasts a formidable head, oversized eyes, and delicate, feather-like fins. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322993-scientists-spooked-by-ghost-shark-sighting-off-thailand-coast-video/

Scientists have been spooked by the ghoulish discovery of a ghost shark swimming off the Andaman coast of Thailand. Researchers revealed the ghost shark is a new species named Chimaera supapae. It boasts a formidable head, oversized eyes, and delicate, feather-like fins. Chimaeras, commonly known as ghost sharks, belong to the family of cartilaginous fish, sharing kinship with sharks and rays. Live Science highlighted that these cartilaginous fish represent some of the oldest species still extant today. The recently identified species falls under the category of shortnose chimaeras, as detailed by researchers in a paper published on March 6 in the journal Raffles Bulletin of Zoology. This paper illuminates the habitat of ghost sharks, dwelling in the lightless depths of the ocean where sunlight fails to penetrate, specifically below 1,640 feet along continental slopes and oceanic ridges. Ghost sharks predominantly prey upon bottom-dwelling creatures such as crustaceans and mollusks, as reported by Live Science. Measuring up to 20 inches in length, Chimaera supapae boasts broad pectoral fins believed to aid in its locomotion across the seabed. Of particular interest is the creature’s discovery location: off the Andaman coast of Thailand. However, it’s worth noting that the specimen was found deceased as part of a deep-sea survey project conducted in 2018. David Ebert, lead author of the study and program director of the Pacific Shark Research Center at San Jose State University in California, stated that Chimaera are rare in this region of the world. “There were only 53 known species of chimaera in the world. This makes 54.” The revelation of Chimaera supapae is a source of excitement for scientists as it contributes to our understanding of the vast array of life dwelling in the depths of the ocean, said Ebert. “Evolutionarily, these chimaeras are among some of the oldest lineages of fishes with the lineage going back 300-400 million years. “The discovery of new species like this chimaera tells us how little we know about the marine environment and how much is still to be explored.” by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Andrew Black Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-22 - 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 defence ministry to downsize military by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Thai Ministry of Defence outlined a comprehensive plan to downsize service personnel by approximately 700 individuals within the next three years. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322992-thai-defence-ministry-to-downsize-military/

The Thai Ministry of Defence outlined a comprehensive plan to downsize service personnel by approximately 700 individuals within the next three years. This strategic move aims to restructure the military and is expected to result in savings of up to 34 million baht. Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang confirmed these details after a Defence Council meeting last Thursday. The initial phase of the downsizing process, which will span the fiscal years from 2025 to 2027, was agreed upon unanimously during the council meeting. The idea to reduce military personnel was first proposed by Sutin in a budget bill debate for the fiscal year 2024 on January 4. The defence minister has issued a new regulation focusing on early retirements to help decrease the number of high-ranking officers across the three military branches by almost half, equating to around 380 officers, by 2027. Defence Spokesman, Rear Admiral Thanitpong Sirisawetsak, shared further details on the proposed structural changes within the military. To minimise work redundancy, several divisions will be merged. For instance, the Office of the Secretary of the Reserve Personnel Committee and the Recruitment Division, Department of Defence Resources, are set to be consolidated with the Ministry’s Office Permanent Secretary. The restructuring also includes the reform of some military structures. The Defence Information and Space Technology Department, for instance, will be revamped to work more cohesively with the Military Cyber Centre, which is expected to evolve into the Military Cyber Command soon. In addition, certain organisations will transform. The ASEAN Office of Defense Policy and Planning will become the Office of International and ASEAN Cooperation, and the Royal Initiative Project and Security Coordination Centre will be transformed into the Royal Initiative Project Development Office. In related developments, Sutin has instructed the Judge Advocate General’s Department to revise regulations relating to servicemen’s job descriptions, reported Bangkok Post. This order comes in response to a video posted by a former conscript on March 10, which went viral. The video showed the former conscript tasked with washing his superior’s wife’s underwear, among other domestic duties. Sutin has emphasised the need for an official job description for conscripts working at their superiors’ residences. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-22 - 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

Russian woman fined for kicking, Grab gets owned at Phuket Airport - TNT - March 22 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322990-russian-woman-fined-for-kicking-grab-gets-owned-at-phuket-airport-tnt-march-22/

Thailand news - A court has issued the Russian woman in Koh Pha Ngan a small fine after kicking a pregnant Thai woman on Monday. Grab gets access to Phuket Airport, but at what cost. Warning of a new online scam, this time its electricity bills, a triple fatal shooting in Lopburi. Thai domestic tourism has been surging over the past two months, Thailand isn't quite as 'happy' as people think, a 'mysterious' layer of air pollution descended on parts of Bangkok on Wednesday night, and a HUGE concrete wall has been erected on a public beach on Koh Chang - the hotel says they have permission, the local administrators say 'no'. Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists.

Thai man admits to killing his ex-girlfriend and staging her suicide by Petch Petpailin Photo via Twitter/ @RedSkullxxx A Thai man confessed to killing his ex-girlfriend at an apartment in Lat Phrao district of Bangkok and staging her suicide to evade arrest. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322989-thai-man-admits-to-killing-his-ex-girlfriend-and-staging-her-suicide/

A Thai man confessed to killing his ex-girlfriend at an apartment in Lat Phrao district of Bangkok and staging her suicide to evade arrest. The suspect, Nattaphon “Bank” Wannasut, reported the death of his ex-girlfriend, 21 year old On-arun “Fon” Naowarath, to an apartment security guard on the morning of March 18. The 30 year old claimed Fon committed suicide by hanging herself from an air-conditioning compressor. After reporting the death, Bank disappeared from the apartment without informing the police. The security guard decided to notify a rescue team and officers from Chokchai Police Station, leading to an investigation in Fon’s room. A rescuer, Montri Kaiyafai, told Channel 7 that Fon was found lying backwards on her legs on the balcony of her room with red bruises on her neck. A towel hung from the air-conditioning compressor on the balcony. The guard informed Montri that Bank had removed Fon’s body from where it was suspended by the towel. A letter, supposedly written by Fon, was discovered in the room. In the letter, Fon said she was tired of everything in life and saw death as a solution. She apologised to her mother and professed her love for her. According to Amarin TV, Bank messaged Fon’s friend, indicating that she had arrived at the room around 3am. He urged Fon to rest, but she declined, stating her desire to smoke. Bank then left Fon alone on the balcony and drifted off to sleep, only to awaken the next day to discover Fon’s lifeless body. Ex-boyfriend confesses Fon’s mother, 55 year old Dao Rittapromp, insisted that Fon’s death was murder, not a suicide. She said the hand-written message on the letter was different from Fon’s. She suspected Bank due to his history of abusive behaviour and physical assaults against Fon. Dao revealed that Fon had informed her of her breakup with Bank due to his drug use, abusive behaviour, and refusal to work. Despite the split, Bank persisted in visiting Fon and attempting to reconcile with her. Fon’s manager, Archan Kamkaew, contradicted Bank’s version of events, asserting that Fon and she had concluded their work at a snooker club around 2am. They remained together until Archan dropped Fon off at her apartment at approximately 4am. Archan maintained that Fon did not return home at 3 am as Bank alleged, and Fon did not display any indications of suicidal tendencies. Channel 8 reported yesterday, March 21, that Bank finally confessed to murdering Fon in the apartment. He recounted how Fon had a new boyfriend and asked him to return a key card to her room. Fon requested that Bank wait outside her apartment but he waited inside instead. According to the media, Fon did not return to her room at the scheduled time because she knew that Bank was there. She was worried that Bank would hurt her and decided to return room in the early morning of the day thinking it would be safer. However, Bank murdered her in the morning and staged the suicide scene. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Twitter/ @RedSkullxxx Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-22 - 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

Powering down to unplug overhead chaos for underground gain by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Unsplash Four major organisations, namely the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA), the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA), the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, have joined forces to replace overhead cables with underground ones along 116 routes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322988-powering-down-to-unplug-overhead-chaos-for-underground-gain/

Four major organisations, namely the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA), the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA), the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, have joined forces to replace overhead cables with underground ones along 116 routes. This substantial project, spanning across both Bangkok and other provinces, will cover a total distance of 213 kilometres. Originally slated for last year, this project is part of a larger plan. This includes the rearrangement of overhead cables across 1,407 routes in Bangkok and the provinces, covering a combined length of 2,498 kilometres. The private operators, owning the telecom and broadcasting cables, will collaborate with the aforementioned four organisations to ensure the project’s timely completion. A recent meeting between the management representatives of these four parties agreed upon the operating costs for each entity to avoid any further delays. Under the agreement, NBTC will subsidise the cost of cable removal, with MEA and PEA providing financial backing for some parts of the equipment involved in the removal process. In the same vein, National Telecom (NT), a state telecom enterprise that owns conduits along 4,360 kilometres of roads nationwide, will reconsider a new rental rate to entice telecom operators for long-term rental agreements. Past plans for 2023 had aimed to lay cables underground across 158 routes covering a total length of 267 kilometres. However, due to unforeseen delays, cables were laid underground on only three routes in Bangkok, spanning 7.4 kilometres, and 39 routes in the provinces, covering 47 kilometres. This leaves the remaining work of 116 routes, covering a distance of 213 kilometres, to be completed this year. Moreover, previous plans for rearranging existing overhead cables in 2023 and 2024 aimed to cover 1,594 routes, spanning a distance of 3,047km. However, only 187 routes with a combined length of 548 kilometres were covered in 2023. An anonymous telecom industry source attributes the missed targets to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and political uncertainties. However, he also noted that the previous government had shown serious intent to improve the appearance of the country’s cities and provinces by laying overhead cables underground and rearranging overhead cables, reported Bangkok Post Between 2018 and 2023, the organisations involved managed to rearrange overhead cables along 290 routes covering 1,606 kilometres in Bangkok and adjacent areas, and along 8,168 routes covering 16,844 kilometres in the provinces. From 2017 to 2023, they laid overhead cables underground on 129 routes both in Bangkok and the provinces covering a combined length of 183 kilometres. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-22 - 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

Royal Thai Police internal conflict prompts public investigation by Mitch Connor The Royal Thai Police (RTP) is currently embroiled in an internal conflict that has drawn substantial public interest. A committee headed by the former Deputy Police Chief, Police General Winai Thongsong, has been tasked with investigating the matter and has been given a timeframe of 60 days to unearth the truth. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322986-royal-thai-police-internal-conflict-prompts-public-investigation/

The Royal Thai Police (RTP) is currently embroiled in an internal conflict that has drawn substantial public interest. A committee headed by the former Deputy Police Chief, Police General Winai Thongsong, has been tasked with investigating the matter and has been given a timeframe of 60 days to unearth the truth. According to Pol. Gen. Winai, this investigation is not a hollow gesture but a necessary action aimed at transparency. It has been mandated that progress updates are communicated regularly to the public. The conflict’s escalation led Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to order the transfer of the national police chief, Torsak Sukvimol, and his deputy, Pol. Gen. Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, to the Prime Minister’s Office earlier this week. This action is a result of weeks of building tension, primarily due to money laundering allegations surrounding the BNK Master online gambling website against Big Joke. Despite attempts, the police investigators were unsuccessful in issuing a summons for Big Joke to acknowledge the charge. However, Pol. Gen. Torsak announced that an arrest warrant and suspension from duty would be implemented if Big Joke failed to answer a second summons. The situation took another turn when a team of lawyers representing Big Joke accused 30 officers of receiving bribes from the same gambling network linked to Surachate. To prevent further damage to the RTP’s reputation, the prime minister initiated the formation of an impartial committee to investigate the conflict. During this 60-day investigation period, Pol. Gen. Kitrat Panphet will assume the role of acting national police chief. Accepting bribes The committee will scrutinise allegations of accepting bribes and making false accusations against Big Joke to obstruct his consideration for the police chief post. If the committee fails to complete the investigation within the allocated time, an extension will be sought. “The investigation will not be a hollow gesture; concrete action will be taken,” assured Pol Gen Winai. On Thursday, Prime Minister Srettha stated that the transfers of Pol. Gen. Torsak and Big Joke were necessary to ensure justice and public service. After a meeting of the Police Commission, the 62 year old Thai prime minister emphasised the importance of a dignified police force that serves the public interest without any external interference. Claiming their innocence until the investigation is concluded, the Bangkok-born Srettha explained that the transfers were designed to facilitate due process and prevent any potential interference. He urged the police to concentrate on addressing key issues such as narcotics, loan sharks, influential people, smuggled goods, and illegal firearms while discouraging any further public discussions about Pol Gen Torsak and Big Joke’s situation. by Mitch Connor Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-22 - 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

Sustainable solutions: Bangkok’s waste-to-energy plants by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation To combat the Thai capital’s mounting garbage crisis, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is rolling out two cutting-edge waste-to-energy plants to revolutionise waste management by 2026. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322984-sustainable-solutions-bangkok’s-waste-to-energy-plants/

To combat the Thai capital’s mounting garbage crisis, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is rolling out two cutting-edge waste-to-energy plants to revolutionise waste management by 2026. BMA permanent secretary Wanthanee Wattana voiced unwavering confidence in the timely completion of these game-changing facilities. Wattana revealed that construction is well underway at the Nong Khaem and On Nut garbage disposal centres, with Privy Councillor Palakorn Suwanrath spearheading the ceremonial groundwork for one of these eco-innovative power plants on March 12. “With Bangkok’s daily garbage surpassing the 1,000-tonne mark, the urgency for sustainable solutions is paramount.” She underscored that the existing Nong Khaem plant, operational since March 23, 2016, under the tenure of former governor Sukhumbhand Paribatra, is struggling to cope with the escalating waste volume. “The new plants are not just a necessity, they signify a pivotal step towards a greener, cleaner Bangkok.” by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-22 - 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

Huai Khwang’s food scene hit by strict regulations, eateries close by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Recent developments in Huai Khwang district have seen a wave of closures across restaurant businesses including hotpot and shabu eateries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322983-huai-khwang’s-food-scene-hit-by-strict-regulations-eateries-close/

Recent developments in Huai Khwang district have seen a wave of closures across restaurant businesses including hotpot and shabu eateries. According to the Huai Khwang District Office, scrutiny has led to the discovery that many Chinese restaurants were operating without the necessary permits. The district office mandated that all eateries obtain proper licensing but this proved challenging for some. Compliance required meeting various conditions, such as installing grease traps and emergency fire exits. Some restaurant owners found the bureaucratic process overly complex and restrictive, particularly those renting their properties who faced structural limitations that made it unfeasible to meet the standards for restaurant operations. Consequently, about 30%, or 10 of the approximately 40 restaurants on Pracharat Bamphen Road, have shut down. Most of these were hot pot and shabu-shabu venues that had invested 2 to 3 million baht each. Restaurants that met the standards had the opportunity to renovate and apply for the required permits. Non-compliance, however, would result in being ordered to close or fined daily, with penalties ranging from 20,000 to 50,000 baht. The closures have had a significant impact on the district’s culinary landscape, with the once-thriving hot pot and shabu-shabu joints now grappling with the realities of regulatory compliance, reported KhaoSod. Last year, the Huai Khwang district’s survey revealed the challenges local businesses faced in adapting to the new regulations. The district office’s enforcement of licensing has led to a considerable number of restaurant closures, altering the dynamic of a district once famous for its food offerings. In related news, a composite task force composed of representatives from 15 different government entities descended upon six Chinese eateries in the Naka Market area of Wichit, Phuket on February 20. Alarmingly, three instances of law infringement were uncovered in the process, including one restaurant that was found to be operating without a proper licence. The operation’s primary goal was to target high-risk groups to combat and address human trafficking issues. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-22 - 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

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 22 March 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322978-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-22-march-2024/

The country's first climate change bill, influenced by the 2016 Paris Agreement, will be submitted for cabinet consideration by June. The bill aims to limit national losses from global warming while enhancing Thailand’s resilience during a crisis. The ministry of Defence intends to reduce its service personnel by 700 over the course of the next three years and undertake a military restructuring, with the aim of saving up to 34 million baht. The initiative will involve early retirement, aiming to decrease the number of high-ranking officers by 50%, or 380, by 2027. A Move Forward Party MP yesterday criticized the performance of the new 'Anti-Fake News Centre', urging for the cut of its 69 million baht funding. adding that the center not only failed to counter fake news effectively but also obscured the truth by forwarding alleged fake news items to relevant agencies for fact-checking. If content could not be verified or agencies opted against its publication, nothing was done.. The State Railway of Thailand will renovate 10 passenger carriages to accommodate people with disabilities, the renovation will focus on ensuring the safety and providing them with user-friendly facilities, they are expected to be in service before the end of April. Around the region Philippines: The longstanding territorial conflict between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea may escalate as Manila considers enshrining its claims into law. Recently, the Philippine Maritime Zones Bill was recently passed defining areas of the sea under the country's jurisdiction and specifying Manila's legal authority there. The move drew swift criticism from China. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: cloudy with thunder showers, 34C Bangkok: Sunny 34C Pattaya: Sunny partly cloudy 31C Phuket and the south: Sunny 33C Hua Hin: Sunny more cloud this afternoon , winds light from the south west and later from south east. 33C AQI Orange High, Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Royal Coast Review, Kulsawek Sawekwannakorn, Thainewsroom.com, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-03-22 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 - 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

Teenage Drug Trafficking Gang Busted in Chiang Rai (video) Picture: 77kaoded Mae Sai police received information about a group of teenagers trafficking drugs via motorcycles. The group was traced to a route under Mae Sai Bridge, passing through Ban Ko Sai village, Mae Sai district, Chiang Rai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322972-teenage-drug-trafficking-gang-busted-in-chiang-rai-video/

Mae Sai police received information about a group of teenagers trafficking drugs via motorcycles. The group was traced to a route under Mae Sai Bridge, passing through Ban Ko Sai village, Mae Sai district, Chiang Rai. Undercover officers spotted two teenagers, aged around twenty, riding motorcycles near the intersection by Kong Kam Hotel, Ban Ko Sai village, reported 77kaoded. Upon approaching, officers apprehended them with a significant amount of narcotics: 302 tablets of Ketamine totaling 1 kilogram and 20 grams of Ice. 732576051.4246421.mp4 They were charged with possession and distribution of Category 1 (Ice, Amphetamines) and Category 2 (Ketamine) narcotics without authorization. Local residents reported frequent sightings of teenagers on motorcycles at the intersection, unaware of their drug trafficking activities. Picture: 77kaoded Police, with the help of around 10 officers, tracked down and apprehended the suspects, putting an end to the illicit operation. Top Picture: 77kaoded -- ASEAN NOW 2024-03-22 - 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 your business in front of millions of customers who read ASEAN NOW with an interest in Thailand every month - email marketing[at]aseannow.com for more information Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe