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Giant albino buffalo stuns PM Srettha in historic encounter by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Ko Muang Phet, a majestic albino buffalo, towering at an impressive 180 centimetres and tipping the scales at a hefty 1.5 tonnes, made a grand entrance at the Government House yesterday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322900-giant-albino-buffalo-stuns-pm-srettha-in-historic-encounter/

Ko Muang Phet, a majestic albino buffalo, towering at an impressive 180 centimetres and tipping the scales at a hefty 1.5 tonnes, made a grand entrance at the Government House yesterday. The nearly five-year-old stud, a symbol of rarity and grace, was escorted to meet Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin in remarkable advocacy for the promotion of Thai buffaloes as a beacon of soft power on the global stage. PM Srettha, standing tall at 192cm, went nose-to-nose with Ko Muang Phet. The premier was visibly moved. “I had no idea there was ever such a beautiful buffalo before!” Jittanat Limthongkul, the proud owner of Wanasuwan Farm, shared with the 62 year old PM the burgeoning interest in the breed and the timely opportunity to champion the Thai buffalo as the nation’s soft power emblem. Earlier this month, Jittanat acquired the impressive beast for a record 18 million baht from Chiang Rai. The previous day, Ko Muang Phet had already turned heads on Phra Athit Road, captivating tourists and locals alike, who clamoured for photographs with the gentle giant. Looking ahead, Jittanat plans to showcase Ko Muang Phet, along with other unique buffaloes, at the Songkran celebrations on Khao San Road, promising a spectacle of size and splendour. Amid safety concerns, the Thai prime minister expressed cautious support. Jittanat reassured that Ko Muang Phet is not aggressive and loves water, committing to bring only the finest specimens to Bangkok. He also highlighted Ko Muang Phet’s potential growth and longevity, sparking a broader discussion on the strategic promotion of the Thai buffalo breed internationally, akin to Japan’s lucrative carp industry, reported The Nation. Wrapping up the historic meeting, PM Srettha initiated steps to showcase Thai buffaloes in a forthcoming roadshow to China, marking a significant stride towards international recognition and appreciation of Thailand’s cultural and natural heritage. ORIGINAL STORY: Cash cow: Albino buffalo sells for record 18 million baht A rare albino buffalo from Phetchaburi has charged into the record books, fetching a staggering 18 million baht, marking it the most expensive buffalo deal in Thai history, proving that this buffalo truly stands out from the herd when it comes to valuable livestock. Renowned for its breathtaking beauty and colossal stature, Ko Muang Phet isn’t just another farm animal, it’s a genetic marvel. With a staggering 90% chance of passing on its albino traits, this buffalo is a game-changer in the breeding industry, promising a lineage of rare offspring. But Ko Muang Phet isn’t just a pretty face in the fields, it’s a star of both screen and pasture. The buffalo stole the show as Ai Khlaow’s trusty companion in the hit drama Mon Rak Luk Thung, cementing its status as an icon beyond the barnyard. Standing tall at 180 centimetres and just five years young, Ko Muang Phet reigns supreme as Thailand’s undisputed giant breeding buffalo champion. Yet, its days of competition are over, as it retires to focus on its true calling: siring the next generation of albino wonders. Recently, Wanasuwan Farm in Chiang Rai made waves by acquiring this celebrity buffalo, shelling out a jaw-dropping 18 million baht at the prestigious 12th Uthai Thani Thai Buffalo Festival, reported The Nation. Damrongsak Morakot, Ko Muang Phet’s former owner, shared his journey from humble buffalo beginnings to multimillion-baht deals, driven by a passion for Thailand’s cattle. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-21 - 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: Police chiefs suspended over alleged gambling links by Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath The Prime Minister of Thailand suspended two top police chiefs of the Royal Thai Police (RTP) from their positions due to alleged internal conflict and connections to online gambling. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322852-both-national-police-chief-and-‘big-joke’-transferred-to-pm’s-office/?do=findComment&comment=18782048

Police chiefs suspended over alleged gambling links by Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath The Prime Minister of Thailand suspended two top police chiefs of the Royal Thai Police (RTP) from their positions due to alleged internal conflict and connections to online gambling. PM Srettha Thavisin, yesterday, March 20, transferred the RTP Commissioner Torsak “Big Tor” Sukvimol and Deputy Commissioner Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, to temporary roles at the Prime Minister’s Office for 60 days. Police General Kitrat Phanphet has been assigned as acting RTP commissioner. The transfers followed allegations linking Big Joke to an online gambling operation. The investigation into this matter has been ongoing since last year, with no clear resolution. Big Joke consistently maintained his innocence and attributed the accusations against him to internal conflicts within the RTP. The PM underscored that both police chiefs are presumed innocent until the investigation concludes. Nevertheless, he deemed it necessary to reassign them from their current roles to guarantee a fair and unbiased investigation. PM Srettha urged both Big Tor and Big Joke to abstain from granting media interviews to prevent further complications. Additionally, he instructed their subordinates not to take sides or divulge any information regarding the case to the public. No internal conflict Big Tor and Big Joke yesterday jointly held a press conference to proclaim their innocence and affirm that there was no internal conflict within the organisation. Big Tor reported that the investigation into the internal conflict within the RTP and the online gambling links had been transferred to the Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (ONACC). The two high-ranking Thai cops have been transferred out of their current positions to ensure that the investigation is fair and of the highest standard. Big Tor insisted that there was no internal conflict within the RTP, although the issue ignited a public debate due to misunderstandings and confusion propagated on social media. He further stated his intention to retire within the next six months and expressed his desire for each remaining day in his position to be positive. Big Tor insisted that he’s had no conflicts with any officers since he served as RTP commissioner. He emphasised his commitment to making the RTP a supportive organisation for all officers. “We live together like brothers and sisters. We work together to build a home for each officer, not just a house.” Big Tor expressed to Big Joke his genuine sincerity, asserting himself as an elder brother figure with unwavering sincerity towards him. He maintained that nobody could match his level of sincerity towards Big Joke. According to ThaiRath, Big Joke appeared visibly stressed and subdued, allowing Big Tor to field the majority of the reporters’ inquiries. Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-21 - 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 Srettha pledges two-month Thailand stay amid travel criticism by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Government House In the face of mounting public criticism over his frequent overseas travels, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has vocally committed to staying put in Thailand for the next two months. The announcement was made via his Twitter account, highlighting that he had taken on board the citizens’ concerns and was grateful for their feedback. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322899-pm-srettha-pledges-two-month-thailand-stay-amid-travel-criticism/

In the face of mounting public criticism over his frequent overseas travels, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has vocally committed to staying put in Thailand for the next two months. The announcement was made via his Twitter account, highlighting that he had taken on board the citizens’ concerns and was grateful for their feedback. “I will not be travelling abroad from March 14 to May 15. I have listened to your concerns and I will be visiting the Mor Chit bus terminal, a hub for our low-income citizens. However, I maintain that my foreign trips are always in the nation’s best interest.” This statement is believed to be a direct response to a recent article published in the Prachachart Thurakij newspaper by columnist Sorakol Adulyanont. Sorakol had appealed to the prime minister to focus more on domestic issues, suggesting visits to the bus terminal or inspections of the fire-fighting operations in the northern region currently battling severe dust pollution. Sorakol further reminded the prime minister of his own words, emphasising that a true leader must be willing to hear the voices of the people, regardless of whether they are hard to digest. Critics, notably including Senator Somchai Sawangkarn, have expressed disapproval of the 62 year old prime minister’s frequent foreign excursions. “Could our prime minister be setting a global record for the most overseas trips by a country’s leader? The pressing question remains: What results have these trips yielded?” It has been reported that the Bangkok-born Srettha has spent nearly 30% of his time in office over the past six months travelling; totalling 15 overseas trips. His most recent trips included visits to Germany and France, in addition to an official trip to Australia. During the Australian trip, he participated in the 2024 ASEAN-Australia Special Summit held in Melbourne, reported Bangkok Post. Despite the criticism, the Thai prime minister remains steadfast in his stance that these trips are crucial for promoting investment and tourism in Thailand. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Government House Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-21 - 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

Decade-old rice prompts questions about health risks by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation In an urgent call to the authorities, a rice specialist has sounded the alarm over the government’s plans to distribute a decade-old rice stockpile to the public, highlighting serious health risks. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322898-decade-old-rice-prompts-questions-about-health-risks/

In an urgent call to the authorities, a rice specialist has sounded the alarm over the government’s plans to distribute a decade-old rice stockpile to the public, highlighting serious health risks. This comes in the wake of Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai’s inspection of two Surin province warehouses on March 14, where he declared the 10 year old rice fit for consumption. Stored under the remnants of the controversial rice-pledging scheme from the Yingluck Shinawatra era, a staggering 145,590 sacks of rice have been languishing in Poonpol Trading Co Ltd’s and Kittichai’s warehouses. Amidst rising storage costs, Phumtham aims to auction the rice, potentially raising between 300 million to 500 million baht. Despite his assurances of the rice’s quality, citing its enduring jasmine fragrance and satisfactory taste when cooked, concerns escalate. Associate Professor Dr Somporn Isvilanonda, a senior fellow at the Knowledge Network Institute of Thailand, contests Phumtham’s optimistic assessment. He argues that jasmine rice’s shelf life typically spans three to four years, extendable to five under optimal storage conditions, reported The Nation. The primary worry is the potential development of aflatoxins, hazardous compounds produced by fungi, a risk exacerbated by the rice’s prolonged exposure to anti-moth chemicals. ORIGINAL STORY: Decade-old Thai rice from controversial scheme found fresh Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai conducted a rice inspection following an invitation from the Association of Thai Agricultural Product Surveyors. The association, keen to dispel allegations regarding the quality of rice held under the contentious rice-pledging scheme, orchestrated an eventful visit to warehouses owned by Poonpon Trading Ltd and Kittichai Ltd in different districts of the northeastern province. Accompanied by three key stakeholders, warehouse owners, provincial commerce officials, and representatives from the Public Warehouse Organisation, Phumtham meticulously inspected the rice stocks. In a twist that surprised many, the verdict emerged: the rice, despite its age, retained its quality. “We need to release this rice to the market as soon as possible.” Phumtham highlighted the opportune moment given the current decent rice prices. This decision, he claimed, would not only secure government profits but also alleviate various stakeholders’ concerns. The rice-pledging scheme, initiated by former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra post the 2011 election, aimed to empower Thai farmers by offering higher prices for their crops. However, the scheme was marred by controversy, with accusations of significant financial losses and substandard storage practices rampant, reported The Nation. According to the Association of Thai Agricultural Product Surveyors, Poonpon Trading’s warehouse harbours 32,879 bags of rice, while the Kittichai facility accommodates a whopping 112,711 bags, each bag weighing 50 kilogrammes. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-21 - 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’s two top cops dismissed, and a buffalo at Government House - TNT - March 21 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322897-thailand’s-two-top-cops-dismissed-and-a-buffalo-at-government-house-tnt-march-21/

Thailand news - Both the Chief of the Royal Thai Police Torsak, and deputy police chief Surachate Hakparn, have been relieved of duty and transferred to inactive posts as an investigation about corruption and links to online gambling sites continues. A follow up to the story of the Russian woman in Koh Pha Ngan who kicked a pregnant Thai storekeeper, but in a fruity AI style. Rain, rain, and more rain in parts of Bangkok and Chon Buri, a big gambling den raid nets 300 illegal gamblers. and a Buffalo and a former UK prime minister visit the Thai PM at Government House. Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists.

Thailand to Celebrate ‘THAICONIC SONGKRAN CELEBRATION by Woraprat Lerpaisal BANGKOK (NNT) - Following Songkran festival’s recognition as a UNESCO World Intangible Cultural Heritage, a grand celebration ‘THAICONIC SONGKRAN CELEBRATION’ will be held from April 10th to 21st in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322896-thailand-to-celebrate-‘thaiconic-songkran-celebration/ Full story:

BANGKOK (NNT) - Following Songkran festival’s recognition as a UNESCO World Intangible Cultural Heritage, a grand celebration ‘THAICONIC SONGKRAN CELEBRATION’ will be held from April 10th to 21st in Bangkok. ‘THAICONIC SONGKRAN CELEBRATION’ offers a mix of traditional Thai water-splashing activities and contemporary cultural experiences, including spectacles alongside the Chao Phraya River. The event will be held under the cooperation between ICONSIAM, Public Relations Department, Ministry of tourism and sport, Ministry of Culture and the Tourism Authority of Thailand. It is backed by a 60 million baht marketing investment, and aims to draw over 1.5 million participants with a blend of traditional and contemporary celebrations. The festival lineup includes a parade of Songkran goddesses, a water-pouring ceremony on a Phra Phuttha Sihing replica, and vibrant water splashing activities. Attendees are encouraged to don floral shirts, enhancing the festive mood with bright colors across the nation. Supoj Chaiwatsirikul, Managing Director of ICONSIAM, has doubled the marketing budget to elevate the Songkran celebration's scale, showcasing Thai traditions and hospitality to the global community. This initiative aligns with efforts to position Songkran as a key player among international cultural festivals. Government and private sector collaborations aim to ensure a safe, family-friendly event that balances Thai tradition with modern entertainment. The festival is expected to bolster Thailand's economy by attracting tourists and increasing spending, underlined by the significance of Songkran's UNESCO designation and the Ministry of Culture's endorsement of the event's contribution to Thai culture and economic development. Source: NNT 2024-03-21 - 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 by Woraprat Lerpaisal

Skal International Bangkok elected first Female President ever in 68 years Skal International Bangkok, a vibrant hub of hospitality and tourism professionals, proudly announces the results of its Annual General Meeting held at the Hyatt Regency Sukhumvit Bangkok. This momentous occasion saw the election of Kanokros Wongvekin as the first-ever female President of Skal International Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322895-skal-international-bangkok-elected-first-female-president-ever-in-68-years/

Skal International Bangkok, a vibrant hub of hospitality and tourism professionals, proudly announces the results of its Annual General Meeting held at the Hyatt Regency Sukhumvit Bangkok. This momentous occasion saw the election of Kanokros Wongvekin as the first-ever female President of Skal International Bangkok. Kanokros, alongside the newly appointed Executive Committee Members, brings a fresh perspective and renewed energy to the esteemed organization. Under the esteemed leadership of James Thurlby, former President of Skal International Bangkok, who has recently ascended to the President of Skal International Thailand, the Executive Committee orchestrated a memorable luncheon event and the Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the stunning Spectrum Rooftop restaurant. The event, graciously hosted by Sammy Carolus, General Manager of Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit, marked a significant milestone in Skal Bangkok's illustrious journey since its establishment in 1956. Kanokros Wongvekin's election as President signifies a moment of progress and inclusivity for Skal International Bangkok. Her visionary leadership, coupled with the dedication of the Executive Committee, promises to steer the organization towards greater heights of success and impact within the hospitality and tourism industry. For Skal International Bangkok membership application, please email to memberships[at]skalbangkok.com For event details requirements, please email to events[at]skalbangkok.com About Skal International Bangkok: Skal International Bangkok serves as a beacon of excellence within the hospitality sector, fostering connections, promoting sustainable tourism practices, and advancing professional development opportunities for its members. With a rich history and a commitment to innovation, Skal Bangkok continues to be a driving force in shaping the future of global tourism. About Skal International: Skal International, with over 11,843 members worldwide, remains at the forefront of promoting global tourism and fostering meaningful connections among industry professionals. As the largest organization of its kind, Skal International empowers its members to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for the tourism industry. About Kanokros Wongvekin: Kanokros has an extensive experience covering 29 years of hotel industry experience, with a Bachelor of Business Administration's degree in Public Relations and Advertising and an MBA in marketing. She began her career in 1991 at The Sol Twin Towers Hotels Bangkok, later working as Director of Public Relations at leading hotels such as Amari Watergate Hotel Bangkok, Amari Atrium and Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers Bangkok. Kanokros served as Corporate Director of Marketing Communications at Centara Hotels & Resorts for over 10 years. She received the 'Best Public Relations' award from Starwood Hotels and Resorts. She was serving as elected President of Hotel Public Relations Association of Thailand during 2013-2015. Prior to being elected President of Skal International Bangkok, she was Director of Public Relations while James Thurlby was the elected President of the club. TOP: Group photo shows from left to right are :- - Pichai Visutriratana, Director of Events, Skal International Bangkok - Sammy Carolus, General Manager of Hyatt Regency Bangkok Sukhumvit, member of Skal International Bangkok and the host for the event - Max Ma, Membership Director, Skal International Bangkok - Marvin Bemand, Vice President of Skal International Bangkok - Kanokros Wongvekin, new President of Skal International Bangkok - James Thurbly, President of Skal International Thailand - Nyanika Chansrichawla, Director of Public Relations, Skal International Bangkok - Dr. Scott Smith, Young Skal Director, Skal International Bangkok - Samantha Lauver-Marion, Young Skal Director, Skal International Bangkok - Andrew J. Wood, Vice President, Skal International Bangkok - John Neutze , Treasurer of Skal International Bangkok -- 2024-03-21

Former abbot gets 468-year sentence in 300 million baht embezzlement case by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases sentenced a former abbot of Wat Pa Dhammakiri in Nakhon Ratchasima, to an overwhelming 468 years in prison. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322894-former-abbot-gets-468-year-sentence-in-300-million-baht-embezzlement-case/

The Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases sentenced a former abbot of Wat Pa Dhammakiri in Nakhon Ratchasima, to an overwhelming 468 years in prison. This decision was made yesterday, March 20, following lawsuits that accused Khom Kongkaeowas and eight others of being embroiled in an embezzlement case worth nearly 300 million baht (US$8.34 million). Among the eight accomplices were Wutthima Thaomor, Khom’s predecessor as abbot, Juthathip Phubodiwarochuphan, Khom’s sister, and Boonyasak Patarakosol, his chauffeur. Five monks who had been defrocked – Boonsong Panpuwong, Bundit Yoicha, Nathapat Tangjaisanong, Boonluea Phothong, and Thanakrit Yotsurin – were also implicated in the case. The court’s investigation found that Khom had conspired with the defrocked monks to siphon off funds from the temple’s donations. He then deposited the stolen money into his bank account, from which only his sister had the authority to withdraw funds. She did this 76 times. Khom instructed his sister to store a portion of the embezzled money at his residence, where police eventually confiscated 51.4 million baht (US$1.4 million). He also commanded his fellow former monks to conceal some assets outside the temple. All in all, law enforcement unearthed 1,455 items counting cash and assets worth 299.5 million baht (US$ 8.3 million). The court pronounced Khom guilty on 78 charges, with each one carrying a jail term of six years. Hence, he received a cumulative sentence of 468 years. Wutthima was found guilty on 78 counts, amassing a total jail term of 312 years, while Juthathip was found guilty on 77 counts, resulting in a 308-year sentence, reported Bangkok Post. It is important to note that according to Thai law, the maximum duration they can serve in prison is 50 years. The sentences of the other defendants were reduced from three to two years due to their cooperation in the case. In related news, Police apprehended a 51 year old woman for her involvement in a multifaceted criminal enterprise that included document forgery, job application fraud, and a significant embezzlement scandal. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-21 - 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

Political unrest fuels growth in Thailand Privilege Card membership by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Political unrest and geopolitical conflicts worldwide have propelled the Thailand Privilege Card’s membership count to a staggering 3,871, according to the card’s operator. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322891-political-unrest-fuels-growth-in-thailand-privilege-card-membership/

Political unrest and geopolitical conflicts worldwide have propelled the Thailand Privilege Card’s membership count to a staggering 3,871, according to the card’s operator. The card’s operator, Thailand Privilege Card Co (TPC), noted that the long-stay visa, spanning from five to 20 years across four membership categories, has been a significant draw for individuals in countries facing severe political challenges. Russia, for instance, has seen a significant increase in card holders since the Russia-Ukraine conflict began. Out of 36,397 card members, Russians now make up the fifth-largest market, boasting 1,132 members, a notable rise from their previous seventh and eighth positions. As of February 29, there were 86 Ukrainian members. Other emerging markets for the card include Myanmar, with 535 members, and Taiwan, with 1,236 members. Despite this, China remains the leading market for the card, formerly known as the Thailand Elite card, accounting for 45% of total membership, an increase from 38% in 2022. The subsequent largest markets are Japan, the US, the UK, and Russia. TPC members typically spend more time in Thailand than regular visitors, averaging 3.6 trips annually and spending around 50 days per trip. This results in an average expenditure of 7,000 to 10,000 baht (US$200 to US$280) per individual, contributing approximately 38 billion baht (US$1.06 billion) to Thailand’s tourism revenue last year. Even amidst the first three months of 2024, 75% of members remained active travellers, visiting the country frequently. This trend has led the company to aim for 8,000 new members in 2024, with the overall trips by card members expected to contribute at least 50 billion baht (US$1.4 billion) to the economy this year. The company managed to generate a profit of 841 million baht (US$23.4 million) for its most significant shareholder, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), last year. This marked the third year in a row that the company maintained profitability, following profits of 138 million baht (US$4 million) in 2021 and 628 million baht (US$17.5 million) in 2022. The cumulative profit of 1.6 billion baht (US$ 44.5 million) has already surpassed the initial 700 million baht (US$ 19.5 million) of registered capital that TAT invested into the company, reported Bangkok Post. However, a restructuring of the Thailand Privilege Card in October 2023, which included a 50% price increase, may result in fewer new members this year compared to the 11,846 individuals who joined last year. Nevertheless, with membership costs now ranging from 900,000 baht to 5 million baht (US$25,000 to US$139,000), depending on the category, the company anticipates an increase in revenue growth from 7.6 billion baht (US$ 212 million) last year to 8 billion (US$223 million) baht this year. by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-21 - 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 blaze claims gold investor’s life in Wang Thonglang district by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic fire engulfed a luxurious residence in the Wang Thonglang district of Bangkok, claiming the life of a gold stock investor, the house owner, in his bedroom. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322889-bangkok-blaze-claims-gold-investor’s-life-in-wang-thonglang-district/

by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic fire engulfed a luxurious residence in the Wang Thonglang district of Bangkok, claiming the life of a gold stock investor, the house owner, in his bedroom. The incident occurred early in the morning, and by the time the emergency services arrived, the fire had rapidly spread throughout the property, leaving little to salvage. In the early hours of this morning, the Bangkok Metropolitan Police received a distress call alerting them to a fire at a private residence in Soi Ladprao 56, in the Wang Thonglang area. The responding team, which included firefighters from Bangkapi station with five fire trucks, forensic experts, medical examiners from the Police Hospital, and volunteers from the Poh Teck Tueng Foundation, discovered a two-story, European-style house, approximately 200 square metres in size, completely engulfed in flames. Upon extinguishing the fire, they found the charred remains of 55 year old Kulkawee (surname withheld) in the second-floor bedroom. Despite the swift response, the fire had left the residence in ruins. The investigation revealed that the deceased was a stock investor in gold markets who lived alone in the house, while his family resided separately. His two children were abroad, and he usually spent nights either at his condo with his wife or out, seldom staying at his house. Neighbours last saw Kulkawee outside his residence around 10pm last night before the fire. Later that night, they reportedly heard sounds resembling electrical shorts, followed swiftly by the sight of his house ablaze, reported Bangkok Post. Police Lieutenant Thai Sawangjit, the deputy inspector (investigation) at Wang Thonglang Police Station, obtained information indicating that the owner was not often home, favouring nights out. Following the fire, forensic officials were called to investigate the cause, with a preliminary hypothesis suggesting an electrical short circuit. In related news, a blaze unexpectedly ignited on an electricity pole nearing the Somdet Borommaratchadewi Sri Racha Hospital in Sri Racha on February 14, wreaking havoc on communication cables and leading to service disruptions in the area. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-21 - 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

Monk arrested for sexual assault of teen in Ayutthaya temple by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A young monk has been arrested for the alleged sexual assault and abuse of a teenage girl inside a temple in Ayutthaya province on Monday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322888-monk-arrested-for-sexual-assault-of-teen-in-ayutthaya-temple/

A young monk has been arrested for the alleged sexual assault and abuse of a teenage girl inside a temple in Ayutthaya province on Monday. The teen’s 37 year old mother Ratri has been left distraught after her 14 year old daughter, referred to as A for privacy, became a victim of a heinous crime within the supposed sanctuary of a local temple. The young girl, who was working at the temple to support her family, was allegedly subjected to a brutal assault by Phra Tongs, a 24 year old monk, who reportedly bound her hands and feet, physically assaulted her, and then raped her. The monk is said to have threatened the girl, warning her not to tell anyone, and even attempted to use money to silence her and her family. After learning of the attack, Ratri immediately travelled to the temple and confronted the accused monk, who had already disrobed and was wearing layman’s attire. In a shocking twist, the monk attempted to negotiate by offering to marry the young girl and proposed a settlement amount of 200,000 baht, which was later increased to 400,000 baht, to prevent the matter from going to the police. Ratri, prioritising her daughter’s well-being and justice over money, refused the offer and decided to take legal action. The police have since gathered enough evidence to issue an arrest warrant for the monk on charges of sexual assault of a minor, illegal detention, and physical assault. The Ayutthaya Provincial Court has taken up the case. The monk is currently in custody at the Tha Ruea Police Station. The young victim, accompanied by her mother, revisited the scene but was unable to enter the areas where the assault took place, as they were cordoned off. The victim recounted the harrowing experience, emphasising the violence and intimidation she faced at the hands of Phra Tongs, reported KhaoSod. In the aftermath, Ratri sought solace in prayer at another temple and hoped for karmic justice for the perpetrator. She has since taken her daughter back to their home in Chiang Rai, where they will continue to cooperate with the investigation while considering a transfer for the girl’s education to ensure her safety and recovery from the traumatic ordeal. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-21 - 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

Village head detained in Phatthalung for police home intrusion by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Phatthalung have apprehended a village head and several individuals following a bold and unauthorised incursion into a police officer’s residence. The group, armed and without just cause, now faces serious legal repercussions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322886-village-head-detained-in-phatthalung-for-police-home-intrusion/

Police in Phatthalung have apprehended a village head and several individuals following a bold and unauthorised incursion into a police officer’s residence. The group, armed and without just cause, now faces serious legal repercussions. On the evening of yesterday, March 20, at around 6.30pm, a suspicious congregation of vehicles and individuals near the home of Surat Ramnoo triggered a chain of events leading to an intense confrontation and subsequent arrests. Surat, a 33 year old police officer, questioned the intentions of five men who had parked outside his residence and were circling towards the back of his house. The group claimed they were looking for lost property but failed to convince the officers on the spot. When Surat and his colleague, Kruekphon Leunchan, identified themselves as police officers, the group remained uncooperative. Despite a thorough search that turned up no illegal possessions, their suspicious behaviour prompted a call for backup. Surat immediately contacted Chusak Chuthong, the deputy chief of the local police tactical unit, to apprise him of the situation. While waiting for additional forces, Supol, also known as Jom Petchnui, a local village head, attempted to access a white Toyota Hilux Revo—later identified as a vehicle of interest in the investigation. His attempts were thwarted by the vehicle’s locked doors, and despite his demands, the arrested individuals did not comply with his requests to unlock the vehicle. Upon the arrival of the police tactical team, an extensive search of the white Toyota revealed a Remington Wingmaster shotgun and two rounds of number 12 gauge ammunition, concealed in the back seat. The arrested individuals, 28 year old Pakapetch Chuabumrong, and 20 year old Thanakorn Petchnui, claimed the firearms belonged to Supol, Thanakorn’s father and the village head in question. Following these discoveries, officers escorted the two apprehended men to the local police station for further legal proceedings. Earlier in the day, a group of six men, including the son of the village head, armed with handguns, had allegedly attempted to confront a local family near the scene of the evening’s arrests. This action resulted in a police report for trespassing and armed threats. Home intrusion Thanakorn, the 20 year old son of the village head, contended that they had no intention of causing trouble and had only sought to reconcile with the son of the family in question. However, the unexpected arrival of the police caused panic, leading to their dispersal and the dropping of a bag they later returned to retrieve, reported KhaoSod. Surat, whose home was intruded upon, expressed concern over the behaviour of the village head and his group. He feared the situation could have escalated had they managed to retrieve the firearm from the vehicle. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-21 - 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 enveloped in smog as PM2.5 levels hit new highs by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Bangkok citizens awoke yesterday to a pervasive burning smell as PM2.5 pollution levels soared across the city. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322884-bangkok-enveloped-in-smog-as-pm25-levels-hit-new-highs/