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Thai space device to join China’s Chang’e 7 lunar mission By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Saudi Gazette A collaboration between the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) and the China National Space Administration (CNSA) has been greenlit by the Cabinet, as announced by Minister Supamas Isarabhakdi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350901-thai-space-device-to-join-china’s-chang’e-7-lunar-mission/

Tunisian tourist tries to outrun Karon cops, chase ends in arrest By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Karon Police via The Phuket News A reckless Tunisian tourist led Karon Police on a dramatic chase after blowing through a checkpoint along Karon Beach Road last night. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350907-tunisian-tourist-tries-to-outrun-karon-cops-chase-ends-in-arrest/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 6 February 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1350910-thailand-live-thursday-6-february-2025/

Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail British husband of the Thai ‘Lady of the Hills’ bailed - video By Bob Scott The British husband suspected of murdering his Thai wife over two decades ago has been released on bail. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350898-british-husband-of-the-thai-‘lady-of-the-hills’-bailed-video/

Thailand cuts power to Myanmar border areas to tackle call centre scam by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Natty Loves Myanmar In a dramatic crackdown, Thailand cut off the power, Internet, and petrol supplies to five border areas of Myanmar suspected of harbouring call centre scam operations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350880-thailand-cuts-power-to-myanmar-border-areas-to-tackle-call-centre-scam/

Photo via Facebook/ Natty Loves Myanmar by Petch Petpailin In a dramatic crackdown, Thailand cut off the power, Internet, and petrol supplies to five border areas of Myanmar suspected of harbouring call centre scam operations. The bold move, effective from 9am today, February 5, aims to dismantle what officials believe are the headquarters for a notorious scam gang operating along the Thai border with Myanmar. An MP from the People’s Party, Rangsiman Rome, took to Facebook on Monday, February 3 to call on relevant government officials to consider cutting off power to certain areas in Myanmar that were using electricity bought from Thailand, to combat call centre scams. The MP urged the government to cut off electricity primarily in three areas of Myanmar: Tachileik, Myawaddy, and Payathonzu. He urged the government to take decisive action to prevent Thai citizens from falling victim to call centre scams. Rangsiman also questioned whether any high-profile politicians or influential figures received benefits from the call centre scam gangs, making the issue difficult or even impossible to resolve. Several members of the coalition government stepped forward to address the matter but shifted responsibility for the power cuts between different departments. Yesterday, February 4, the Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, announced a swift plan for the power cuts, stating that he had ordered the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA), which manages power in the area, to take immediate action. Photo via Matichon Impact innocent, not scammer In an interview with Nation TV today, Phumtham confirmed that the power cut had already been implemented from 9am in five areas identified as hubs for call centre scams, human trafficking, and drug-related activities. Thailand not only cut off electricity but also Internet connections and petrol deliveries. The five affected areas are: The border between Kanchanaburi province of Thailand and Payathonzu town in Myanmar The border between Chiang Rai province of Thailand and Tachileik town in Myanmar The area near the First Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge in Chiang Rai province and Tachileik town in Myanmar The area near the Second Thai-Myanmar Friendship Bridge in Chiang Rai province and Myawaddy town in Myanmar The border between Ratchaburi province of Thailand and Myawaddy town in Myanmar Photo via Matichon The deputy PM stated that the power cut was only a short-term solution, as the government still had many steps to take to fully address the scam issue, which is considered a security threat to both Thailand and other countries. According to a report in DailyNews, Tachileik is expected to be the most affected, as the town’s main power supply comes from Thailand. Photo via Matichon However, some parts of the town use electricity from Laos, which is expected to adjust its power transmission to Tachileik following Thailand’s power cut. This could leave the area without electricity for three to five days. A famous Thai woman reported Myanmar-related news to express her opinion on her Facebook page, Natty Loves Myanmar, that the Tachileik call centre scam gang may not be affected by the blackout because they were already prepared for a situation like this, adding that only innocent locals in the area would be affected. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-05

Parking puzzle: Pattaya evens out the odds to curb traffic congestion by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Pattaya News In a bid to tackle the notorious traffic congestion in South Pattaya, city officials have rolled out a strict enforcement of odd-even parking rules on the bustling South Pattaya Road. Starting Monday, February 3, the initiative aims to streamline traffic flow and bring order to the chaotic streets. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350876-parking-puzzle-pattaya-evens-out-the-odds-to-curb-traffic-congestion/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya News by Bob Scott In a bid to tackle the notorious traffic congestion in South Pattaya, city officials have rolled out a strict enforcement of odd-even parking rules on the bustling South Pattaya Road. Starting Monday, February 3, the initiative aims to streamline traffic flow and bring order to the chaotic streets. On the first day of enforcement, Pattaya Mayor Poramase Ngampichet took to the streets at 3:30pm, inspecting the 850-metre stretch from Suesarn Intersection to Wat Chaimongkol Intersection. His presence underscored the importance of this new regulation in addressing the area’s long-standing traffic woes. Mayor Poramase emphasised the dire need for this initiative. “South Pattaya Road faces significant traffic challenges, and while the odd-even parking rule has been in place for some time in collaboration with local police, consistent enforcement is key.” Recognising the constraints faced by the police, the city has now deployed a dedicated municipal team tasked with upholding these parking regulations. From February 3, Pattaya City officials and the police will rigorously implement the rule, with two teams of 12 officers each patrolling the area from 11am to 11pm daily. Their mission? To clamp down on parking violations and maintain order. Under the new scheme, city officials have been granted powers to wheel-lock offending vehicles and impose fines. However, during the first month, violators will receive warnings, allowing motorists time to adjust to the new rules. Mayor Poramase made a heartfelt plea to all drivers to follow the parking guidelines, acknowledging that while some business owners might find the transition inconvenient, these steps are taken for the greater good of the community. As Pattaya takes decisive action to unclog its roads, motorists are urged to curb their parking habits and support the city’s efforts in creating a more efficient traffic system for everyone. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-05

Please continue: Missing British man found dead in Bangkok by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail The family of a missing British man paid tribute after he was found dead in Thailand. Essex-born James Sangwine has died after going missing in Thailand for days. Thai police have yet to release details around the circumstances of the Londoner’s death. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350865-missing-british-man-found-dead-in-bangkok/ //CLOSED// /Admin

Missing British man found dead in Bangkok by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail The family of a missing British man paid tribute after he was found dead in Thailand. Essex-born James Sangwine has died after going missing in Thailand for days. Thai police have yet to release details around the circumstances of the Londoner’s death. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350865-missing-british-man-found-dead-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail by Bob Scott The family of a missing British man paid tribute after he was found dead in Thailand. Essex-born James Sangwine has died after going missing in Thailand for days. Thai police have yet to release details around the circumstances of the Londoner’s death. The father of one’s family has launched a fundraiser to help bring the 33 year old man’s body home. Sangwine travelled to Bangkok for a holiday on January 18 and soon after his family lost contact. Sangwine vanished during what was supposed to be a fun holiday in Bangkok. His partner, 38 year old Katie Maybin told EssexLive that he was travelling to Thailand to spend time with a friend living there but then all contact stopped after a night out on January 20. Sangwine was last seen making his way to the Abandoned Mansion Bar & Restaurant in Bangkok. A local couple who encountered the British man there messaged his partner Maybin, mentioning that he had been out with friends that evening. Sangwine was due to fly home on January 24 but he never got on the plane. His distraught family has since launched an urgent fundraiser to bring the beloved West Ham fan back to the UK for a proper farewell. The Just Giving page, which has been flooded with support, was set up by James’s family to cover the costs of repatriation and the forthcoming funeral. In a heartfelt tribute, family friend Julie Nolan-Day wrote on the page. “Our boy James walked into every room as loud and large as life! He had endless stories that would always have you in fits of laughter. From a young age, he wanted to be where the action was, particularly for birthday celebrations. “James was a dad to our ‘little Jimmy’, a cherished son, brother, uncle, and a friend to many. His love for West Ham was a highlight, especially when he shared it with Jimmy. Remember him with warmth and laughter as we work to bring our boy home for the send-off he deserves. Any leftover funds will go into a trust for his little boy.” Picture of the Abandoned Mansion in Bangkok courtesy of BK Magazine The fundraiser, launched on February 3, has already amassed £21,000 (882,000 baht), shattering its initial £15,000 target in just hours. A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) stated: “We are supporting the family of a British man who has died in Thailand and we are in contact with the local authorities.” Those wishing to contribute can view the fundraiser by clicking here. Picture courtesy of EssexLive RELATED TOPIC: British dad mysteriously vanishes in Bangkok https://aseannow.com/topic/1350490-british-dad-mysteriously-vanishes-in-bangkok/ Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-02-05

Chatuchak Market Vendors Seek Probe into Contract Evictions File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In an unfolding drama at the heart of Bangkok, hundreds of vendors from the iconic Chatuchak Weekend Market find themselves in turmoil after their contracts were unexpectedly halted. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) Market Office has justified the decision, citing the section's failure to generate income over the last five years. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350862-chatuchak-market-vendors-seek-probe-into-contract-evictions/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In an unfolding drama at the heart of Bangkok, hundreds of vendors from the iconic Chatuchak Weekend Market find themselves in turmoil after their contracts were unexpectedly halted. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) Market Office has justified the decision, citing the section's failure to generate income over the last five years. At the centre of this issue are 529 stallholders in Section 30 of the market, who were informed that their tenancy would not be renewed. Each vendor had been paying a monthly rent and common fee collectively amounting to 1,900 Thai Baht, a routine undertaken since 2019. The vendors, however, claim there is no record of this income by the BMA, sparking allegations of mismanagement or corruption. Manoon Opasanon, chairman of the Chatuchak Market Volunteer Club, voiced the grievances of the affected vendors. He asserted the necessity of intervention, urging both Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt to launch an investigation into the BMA's financial administration. In response to these claims, the Market Office of the BMA has clarified that its treasury department duly issued receipts and documented all financial transactions at Chatuchak Market across Sections 1-31. They acknowledged the possibility of a misunderstanding concerning the lack of financial records for Section 30 but assured that they have accurate data to support their decisions if required. The vendors have escalated the situation by filing a complaint with the Supreme Administrative Court, which has now ordered the Central Administrative Court to further assess the case. This legal action has been fueled by growing concerns over transparency and fair administration, prompting the petitioning of the National Anti-Corruption Commission for a thorough inquiry. Moreover, the vendors are reaching out to various political figures, including the Leader of the Opposition, to ensure this particular situation, along with grievances from 11 other BMA-managed markets, receives comprehensive oversight. The Chatuchak Weekend Market, with its historic roots dating back to 1942, is a major hub for local commerce. Home to more than 15,000 stalls, it attracts countless shoppers with its diverse selection of goods. The management of the market was transferred to Bangkok City Hall from the State Railway of Thailand in 2018. This dispute puts the stark reality of urban redevelopment and vendor displacement into sharp focus, highlighting the delicate balance between revitalising city spaces and preserving the livelihoods of its traders. As the investigation unfolds, the future remains uncertain for the vendors seeking only to secure their place in this historic market, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-05

Tour Bus Crashes into Tree; 32 Injured, 2 Dead Picture courtesy: Daily News A tour bus travelling from Chiang Mai to Bangkok veered off the road and slammed into a tree, leaving 32 passengers injured and resulting in two fatalities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350859-tour-bus-crashes-into-tree-32-injured-2-dead/

Picture courtesy: Daily News A tour bus travelling from Chiang Mai to Bangkok veered off the road and slammed into a tree, leaving 32 passengers injured and resulting in two fatalities. The driver, initially in critical condition, later succumbed to his injuries in hospital. The cause of the accident is currently under investigation. Picture courtesy: Daily News The incident occurred on 5th February on Highway 1 in Tak Province. The bus, with registration number 16-8524, was heading towards Bangkok when it lost control and crashed into a tree in the road's central reservation. Witnesses reported seeing the bus swaying erratically and overtaking other vehicles before finding it crashed at the site, reported Daily News. Authorities are investigating to determine the exact cause of the crash. -- 2025-02-05

Thaksin Proves He Hasn’t Lost His Old Magic File photo courtesy: Thai Rath In the midst of spirited political exchanges and forecasts, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has voiced a firm endorsement of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s enduring influence within the political arena. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350852-thaksin-proves-he-hasn’t-lost-his-old-magic/

File photo courtesy: Thai Rath In the midst of spirited political exchanges and forecasts, Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has voiced a firm endorsement of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s enduring influence within the political arena. Reflecting on recent Provincial Administration Organisation (PAO) elections, Anutin dismissed notions suggesting Thaksin is losing his charismatic grip on Thai politics. "The essence of a warrior remains constant," Anutin commented on Tuesday, asserting that underestimating Thaksin could lead to unforeseen repercussions. His remarks emerge in response to political analysts questioning Thaksin’s current sway, especially after the Pheu Thai Party's less dominant performance in the latest polls. Despite Pheu Thai being led by Thaksin's daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, it didn't capture as many provinces as anticipated, prompting speculation about Thaksin's waning influence. The discourse also invigorates discussions around Anutin himself, the leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, as a potential candidate for the next prime ministerial race. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Buoyed by Bhumjaithai’s commendable showing in the PAO elections, some political commentators suggest Anutin has firmly positioned himself for leadership in the future. However, Anutin remains measured, emphasising his commitment to the coalition government and sidelining rivalry until the next general elections expected in 2027. Anutin quickly refuted claims that Bhumjaithai’s success in the PAO elections stemmed from 'deep pockets'. "Trust and confidence," he insisted, are the currencies that garnered his party’s support, dismissing notions that monetary incentives influenced voter behaviour. Prime Minister Paetongtarn reflects a similar sentiment of satisfaction regarding Pheu Thai’s performance, indicating that like every election, they would evaluate their victories and losses. She conveyed her father Thaksin’s pleasure with the results despite criticisms that his fervent campaigning style, which can sometimes appear aggressive, might have alienated some voters. In the dynamic world of Thai politics, Thaksin remains a figure whose influence is intricately woven into the fabric of Pheu Thai's strategies and aspirations. Whether his purported 'magic' endures is a subject of fervent debate, yet what remains clear is the continued impact of his legacy on Thailand's political landscape. Both allies and rivals alike acknowledge the significance of his presence, shaping the present and future contours of the political theatre, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-05

Thailand's New Digital Arrival Card Stirs Confusion Among Travellers Image: TAT newsroom ANALYSIS The impending introduction of Thailand's digital entry card requirement has left many potential visitors in a muddle, as questions about its implementation remain unanswered just weeks before its anticipated launch. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350843-thailands-new-digital-arrival-card-stirs-confusion-among-travellers/

Image: TAT newsroom ANALYSIS The impending introduction of Thailand's digital entry card requirement has left many potential visitors in a muddle, as questions about its implementation remain unanswered just weeks before its anticipated launch. As of May 1, all non-Thai passport holders travelling to the country will need to complete an online form, the Thai Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), ahead of their arrival. This measure is designed to replace the now-defunct TM6 entry card, which travellers and immigration officials alike found cumbersome due to its small size and the frequent lack of pens handy after long-haul flights. The TDAC will require travellers to input basic biographical information as well as details regarding their travel and accommodation plans. The new system will apply universally to those entering by air, land, or sea. However, the precise digital platform intended to facilitate these submissions has yet to be disclosed by Thai authorities, leaving both travellers and airlines in an anticipatory limbo, writes Barry Kenyon for Pattaya Mail. It is assumed that once travellers submit their details online, they will receive a confirmation in the form of a QR code. This code can then presumably be presented at the immigration desks or potentially at the electronic gates featured at some Thai airports. There is also speculation that the TDAC may serve as a customs declaration form, although official confirmation has yet to be provided. Reports suggesting the introduction of an exit procedure akin to the TDAC have also surfaced, but they remain unsubstantiated at this point. One significant source of confusion has been the distinction between the TDAC and a visa application. Although separate processes, a misunderstanding has led to concerns among tourists, particularly from the 93 countries whose citizens enjoy visa-exempt status for a 60-day visit, extendable by an additional month. From May, these tourists, along with all other foreign arrivals, regardless of their visa status, will need to embrace the TDAC protocol. Several crucial questions remain unanswered: Will passengers without a completed TDAC be refused boarding by airlines, anxious about potential fines for transporting non-compliant passengers? Will there be any mechanism for completing the TDAC form upon arrival? Will each visit require a new TDAC submission, and what happens if a traveller changes accommodation after submitting their information? With less than two months before the TDAC's expected rollout, these and other queries require urgent clarification. Without timely and thorough communication from Thai authorities, the envisioned seamless travel experience could falter before it even begins, leaving travellers and the tourism industry in a state of flux. -- 2025-02-05

video screenshot A deadly shooting unfolded at an adult education centre in Orebro, leaving at least ten people dead. This attack, now marked as one of the country's most devastating in recent memory, occurred at the Risbergska School, creating waves of sorrow and shock across the Nordic nation. The incident took place just after midday on Tuesday, when authorities received reports of gunfire. Roberto Eid Forest, a local police chief, revealed that the scale of the tragedy was immense, preventing precise casualty figures immediately. "We know that 10 or so people have been killed here today," Forest stated, underscoring the complexity and gravity of the situation. Among the chaos, the identities of the victims remain undisclosed as investigations are ongoing. Orebro University Hospital reported receiving five patients from the scene, with varying degrees of injuries. One of these sustained only light injuries, while three others required surgical intervention. Despite the severity, two have successfully undergone surgery and are now in stable condition, though one still battles serious wounds. The attacker is believed to be deceased, possibly among the fatalities, according to police statements. While no other attacks are anticipated, the motive behind this horrific act remains a mystery. Authorities have clearly stated that they currently do not suspect any links to terrorism, leaving many to question what could have led to such violence in a place of learning. This tragedy has prompted responses at the highest levels, with Sweden's Prime Minister labeling it a significant and sorrowful blow for the nation. As Sweden struggles to come to terms with this grievous event, attention now turns to the authorities' ongoing investigation. At Risbergska School, a somber hush has fallen, as staff and students grapple with the reality of Tuesday's events. The broader Swedish society joins them in their mourning, confronting a new chapter in the country's history marked by senseless loss, reported Al Jazeera. -- 2025-02-05 ee5aa93752783a2798537bf320cc6f57.mp4

Foreign man attacks Phuket woman for honking while crossing road By Petch Petpailin Photo by colspooners via Flickr A Thai woman is seeking justice after a foreign man attacked her for honking her horn at him while he was crossing a road in Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350810-foreign-man-attacks-phuket-woman-for-honking-while-crossing-road/

Drunken tourist passes out in front of Pattaya Police Station By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News A heavily intoxicated foreign man sparked alarm after collapsing unconscious outside Pattaya Police Station, leaving bystanders and officers scrambling to assist. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350805-drunken-tourist-passes-out-in-front-of-pattaya-police-station/

Drunk French tourist crashes into Patong cop, arrested on the spot By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Patong Police via The Phuket News A drunk French tourist crashed his motorcycle into a traffic police officer in Patong early this morning, leaving both men injured and prompting an immediate arrest. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350800-drunk-french-tourist-crashes-into-patong-cop-arrested-on-the-spot/

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 5 February 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1350802-thailand-live-wednesday-5-february-2025/

Picture of Andrew Hopkins courtesy of The Nation British tourist’s bribery tale dismissed as ‘untrue’ by Pattaya police chief By Bob Scott A British tourist’s claims of bribing his way out of a Pattaya jail have been denounced as “largely untrue” by a Pattaya police chief. However, in a bid for transparency, the Pattaya police chief promises a thorough review of the evidence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350801-british-tourist’s-bribery-tale-dismissed-as-‘untrue’-by-pattaya-police-chief/