webfact

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/

Bangkok citizens awoke yesterday to a pervasive burning smell as PM2.5 pollution levels soared across the city. Officials have identified three primary causes for the incident, which left many areas shrouded in a smoky haze and sparked widespread concern among residents. The unexpected spike in air pollution was primarily attributed to a shift in wind direction yesterday, March 20, as winds from the east replaced the usual breezes from the Gulf of Thailand. This change contributed to the accumulation of pollutants, particularly in the vicinity of the capital. Additionally, multiple fire incidents in the surrounding provinces during the past 24 hours were noted, further exacerbating the air quality. The current weather variability, including the occurrence of summer storms and the recent passage of a high-pressure system from the northeast, has also played a significant role. These meteorological conditions have caused the mixing height—the layer of the atmosphere where air and pollutants can disperse—to decrease, leading to greater concentrations of particulate matter. With increased humidity, secondary PM2.5, particles formed from nitrogen compounds and ammonia, are more likely to occur, particularly under moist conditions, reported KhaoSod. In light of these developments, the advisor on sustainability to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, Phonprom NorSor Wikitset, provided insights into the smoke and smell that plagued the city. The page Friends of Chatichai posted a statement on social media, which explained the reasons behind the smoggy conditions. In related news, Bangkok and 11 other provinces in Thailand are currently grappling with hazardous air quality levels, exacerbated by PM2.5 particulate matter exceeding standard thresholds. The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA), under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, alongside the National Research Council of Thailand, the Pollution Control Department, Kasetsart University, and Chiang Mai University, are monitoring the situation on an hourly basis through satellite data available on the Air4Thai application. 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

Thailand targets diverse travel groups to boost tourism revenue by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand‘s aim of generating 3.5 trillion baht (US$ 97 billion) in tourism revenue this year requires a broader appeal beyond just leisure travellers to be competitive with other destinations, as per Dusit International. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322882-thailand-targets-diverse-travel-groups-to-boost-tourism-revenue/

Thailand‘s aim of generating 3.5 trillion baht (US$ 97 billion) in tourism revenue this year requires a broader appeal beyond just leisure travellers to be competitive with other destinations, as per Dusit International. Suphajee Suthumpun, the CEO of Dusit Group, pointed out that while the new visa-free scheme is likely to ease travel, it alone would not suffice to boost revenue. For high-quality tourism, Thailand needs to build infrastructure and demand for different travel categories, including meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions (Mice), as well as wellness and medical tourism. “Given the slow export rate and weakened domestic spending, tourism is a significant economic propellant this year,” Suphajee stated. She suggested that hotels need to adapt to the current situation by targeting specific markets and avoiding price wars in the hospitality sector, a phenomenon observed before the pandemic. She also endorsed the proposed legislation of casinos, stating it could enhance the economy by attracting tourists to spend in Thailand. However, she cautioned that this sector requires clear zoning and strict safety measures. She further urged the government to legalise hotels by including them in the registered system and offering improved tax incentives to those tourism operators who include green or sustainable practices in their services. Dusit’s portfolio of hotels is projected to reach a 75% average occupancy rate in the first quarter and sustain high room rates, owing to the peak season and steady demand from high-spending clients. In Thailand, the top-performing properties have been identified in Pattaya, Phuket, and Hua Hin. Tourism revenue The group’s hotels in Kyoto have seen a surge of domestic tourists and an increasing number of Thai tourists, attributable to Japan’s popularity in the Thai outbound market. Despite the impending low season, robust bookings are expected to continue in the second quarter. This is driven by demand during the Songkran festival, which sees Thai guests occupying available rooms in Hua Hin, Pattaya, Phuket, and Khao Yai, among others. Dusit Foods, a subsidiary of Dusit, introduced the Pinto Hub on Wednesday. This new food business, a joint venture with Farm to Plate Processor, is a cloud kitchen platform that brings small local vendors and popular restaurants onto one platform for orders via Grab food delivery. Currently, it operates seven outlets in Bangkok and has plans to open three more, which will also offer dine-in services within the next two to three months, reported Bangkok Post. Dusit Foods’ Managing Director, Manisa Mitpaibul, stated that the food business aims for revenue of 2.5 billion baht (US$ 70 million) by 2027, up from 1.3 billion baht (US$ 36.2 million) estimated in 2023. 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

Lopburi man kills 3 in family feud, including wife’s uncle by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a harrowing family tragedy in Lopburi, a man brutally shot and killed his wife’s uncle and two friends in a fit of rage. The incident, fueled by a deep-seated grudge, occurred today, March 21. Police Colonel Jessada Promsuwan, Chief Inspector of the Ma Now Wan Police Station, led an investigation team to the scene after being notified of the deadly shooting at a residence in Pattana Nikhom district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322881-lopburi-man-kills-3-in-family-feud-including-wife’s-uncle/

In a harrowing family tragedy in Lopburi, a man brutally shot and killed his wife’s uncle and two friends in a fit of rage. The incident, fueled by a deep-seated grudge, occurred today, March 21. Police Colonel Jessada Promsuwan, Chief Inspector of the Ma Now Wan Police Station, led an investigation team to the scene after being notified of the deadly shooting at a residence in Pattana Nikhom district. Upon arrival at the elevated wooden house, located about 100 metres from the village road in Huay Khun Ram subdistrict, they discovered two men lying motionless beneath the house, their bodies in pools of blood. The smell of blood was pervasive. The area was immediately cordoned off to await the forensic police and the coroner. It was learned that one severely injured individual had been transported to the hospital earlier but had succumbed to his injuries. The deceased at the scene were identified as Seeprai Sopetch, 54 year old the homeowner, found sitting against a wall with a gunshot wound from a .38 calibre bullet to the back of his head. A blood-stained hammer lay beside him. The second victim, 48 year old Khomsorn Chaiwat, was also shot in the back of the head, his lifeless body atop a food bowl containing beef organs, with a chopping board and a knife nearby. Another 28 year old man found breathing but in critical condition, was rushed to Wang Mueang Satharam Hospital in Saraburi but later died from his injuries. He was identified as Samatchai Korsoongnuen. Investigators found two motorcycles, a grey-black Honda CPX and a blue-white Suzuki without a license plate, at the scene—belonging to the deceased group. The 34 year old perpetrator, identified as Anuwat Tatthapong fled the scene in a black Toyota pickup truck but was later apprehended at a checkpoint by Wang Mueang police. Fatal shooting The local police reported that before the incident, four gunshots were heard, prompting an investigation. The local leader commented that the residence was often a gathering place for young people to drink and use drugs and was a known drug trafficking spot. Anuwat, who is the nephew-in-law of the homeowner and perpetrator of the violence, had a history of aggression towards his wife and mother-in-law, threatening them for money in front of his young children, ages four and eleven. Concerned for his family’s safety, Anuwat harboured a long-standing resentment. During his confession, Anuwat revealed that on the day of the crime, he had argued with his wife and, in a fit of anger, fired two shots into the air before driving to Seeprai’s house to ask for papayas. Upon arrival, he found two strangers preparing to drink with Seeprai. An argument ensued, during which Seeprai insulted him. Enraged and already upset from his earlier conflict, Anuwat shot Seeprai in the head, followed by Khomsorn and Samatchai. Anuwat admitted to the killings, claiming they were acts of love and protection for his family and a release of pent-up vengeance. He insisted he had no involvement with drugs, suggesting the motive was personal and not related to debt collection from drug trafficking, as initially suspected, reported KhaoSod. The police have charged Anuwat with intentional homicide, possession of firearms and ammunition without a permit, carrying a firearm in public without a reasonable cause, and discharging a firearm in a public place. Anuwat confessed to the charges, with his wife and young children present to witness the proceedings. 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

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 21 March 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322880-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-21-march-2024/

Thailand's Criminal Court has acquitted a celebrity couple known as "DJ Man" and his wife for alleged fraud and connections to a multi-billion-baht Foreign exchange scam, known as forex 3d. They were among nine suspects accused of breach of contract and fraud by two victims. The court found insufficient evidence linking the financial transactions to the Ponzi scheme. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin met British foreign minister David Cameron in Bangkok yesterday, Mr Cameron said Our trading relationship is worth around £6 billion pounds a year. Thailand and the UK formally announced the goal of upgrading their relations as Strategic Partners. Thailand pushed Britain to consider a visa waiver to increase Thai tourism to the UK. A former abbot of a Wat in Nakhon Ratchasima has been sentenced to 468 years in prison for his role in an embezzlement case totaling nearly 300 million baht. Eight others have also been charged in the case. The former abbot had diverted donations into his personal bank account. Police discovered over 1,400 items of cash and assets The court convicted him on 78 charges, each carrying a six-year sentence. Bangkok’s governor is inviting residents to stop using electricity for one hour this Saturday to help reduce global warming, along with 7,000 other cities in 190 countries around the world. Bangkok's participation in last year's Earth Hour resulted in a 36-megawatt reduction in electricity usage, a 5.2-tonne reduction in carbon dioxide. Around the region the UN special rapporteur said Myanmar's junta is already facing an "existential threat" but the world could help end its "nightmare" rule with coordinated sanctions. Adding: Mass casualties among junta forces, as well as defections, surrenders, and recruitment challenges, have led to dwindling troop numbers, WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: cloudy with thunder showers, 30C Bangkok: cloudy with thunder showers 31C Pattaya: cloudy with thundery showers 30C Phuket and the south: Sunny, 35C Hua Hin: Cloudy with rain 32C AQI yellow moderate, 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 2024-03-21 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

Northern Thailand braces for severe air pollution crisis by Alex Morgan Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Northern Thailand, specifically the provinces of Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Mae Hong Son, are bracing for severe PM2.5 air pollution. These areas, surrounded by mountains and hills, have previously been rated as the most polluted globally. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322879-northern-thailand-braces-for-severe-air-pollution-crisis/