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Motorcyclist dies in collision with truck near Saen Suk Temple by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A 30 year old man tragically lost his life in a horrific road accident involving his motorcycle and a 10-wheel truck. The incident occurred at a U-turn in front of the Saen Suk Temple, leaving the motorcycle a mangled wreck by the roadside and the victim under the truck. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322238-motorcyclist-dies-in-collision-with-truck-near-saen-suk-temple/

A 30 year old man tragically lost his life in a horrific road accident involving his motorcycle and a 10-wheel truck. The incident occurred at a U-turn in front of the Saen Suk Temple, leaving the motorcycle a mangled wreck by the roadside and the victim under the truck. The accident happened yesterday at 8pm, when a Yamaha big bike collided head-on with a 10-wheel truck at the U-turn near Saen Suk Temple on the Ang Thong-Ayutthaya road in Bang Pla Kot subdistrict, Pa Mok district, Ang Thong province. The emergency services, including medical personnel from Pa Mok Hospital and local rescue volunteers, promptly arrived at the scene following the notification from Police Lieutenant Chaiya Nakglinkun, the investigating officer from Pa Mok Police Station. Upon their arrival, they discovered the deceased, 30 year old Pinij (surname withheld), lying beneath the 10-wheel truck with license plate number 71-4481 from Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. Debris from his shattered helmet was scattered around the area, and his motorcycle, a Yamaha big bike with license plate number 3ขฬ3598 from Bangkok, was found nearby on the roadside. The 41 year old driver of the truck, Sommai (surname withheld) reported that he was making a delivery to a factory close to the accident site. According to Sommai, the collision occurred as he was executing the U-turn with his truck, reported KhaoSod. Police collected evidence at the scene to establish the cause of the accident. Investigations are ongoing as police work to piece together the circumstances that led to this fatal event, following the procedures of the law. In related news, a tragic road accident claimed the life of a motorcycle repairman as he collided with a parked 18-wheeler truck in the early hours on Samut Prakan province’s Suk Sawat Road. The accident occurred near the Prasamut Chedi Police Station, around 100 metres away from the scene. Police Officer Worachet Dechadesho responded to the incident, which took place at 3.30am on March 7. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-13 - 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

Massive online scam nets billions, dozens arrested in Thailand by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation The Thai authorities swooped on a sophisticated online scam that left victims reeling with losses exceeding 800 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322237-massive-online-scam-nets-billions-dozens-arrested-in-thailand/

The Thai authorities swooped on a sophisticated online scam that left victims reeling with losses exceeding 800 million baht. The online scam was orchestrated by a criminal syndicate, reportedly handling funds upwards of 5 billion baht, and targeted unsuspecting individuals through the guise of lucrative investments in Thai and foreign stocks, drawing them into financial ruin. Following complaints from over 50 victims, the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) orchestrated a special operation that culminated in dramatic raids at opulent condominiums nestled in the heart of Bangkok. During the raids, law enforcement officials apprehended two suspects, identified as 26 year old Malaysian national Li and his 30 year old Thai girlfriend, Natthanich. These individuals stand accused of carrying out fraudulent transactions. A hoard of evidence was seized during the operation including 33 computers, 65 mobile phones, 84 bank books, 13 cash cards, 25 SIM cards, and various other items valued at 5 million baht. A third suspect, identified as 42 year old Malaysian national Cheong, was also apprehended in Songkhla’s Sadao district. Cheong is believed to have played a pivotal role as a liaison for cross-border transactions. The trio of suspects confessed to their involvement in a cunning scheme that involved enticing individuals to establish legal entities and open bank accounts, all in the pursuit of enhancing credibility and facilitating illicit financial transactions. Reports suggest that the perpetrators, operating for over two years undetected, raked in handsome compensations exceeding 100,000 baht per operation. Adding to the net of deceit, four Thai individuals have also been detained, with the CIB vowing to leave no stone unturned in their quest to dismantle the syndicate. According to victims, the scam unfolded with the promise of investment opportunities in local and foreign stocks under the guise of reputable brands. Entrapped victims were then ushered into a VIP Line group, where they were bombarded with what seemed like foolproof information on lucrative investments. To seal the deal, victims were coerced into using a deceitful application called Nicshare, which later proved to be a trap, reported The Nation. The promised profits vanished into thin air. Despite being promised hefty returns, victims were trapped in a vicious cycle where withdrawals became increasingly elusive, leading to demands for more investments and a hefty 20% tax. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-13 - 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

Temple turmoil: Thai trans troupe takes abbot to court over image mockery by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ วิทยา หลวงแอร์ ผิวงาม Seven Thai transgender dancers filed a lawsuit against the abbot of Sophon Dhammaram Temple in the Isaan province of Surin for insulting them by sharing their pictures and making fun of their appearance. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322236-temple-turmoil-thai-trans-troupe-takes-abbot-to-court-over-image-mockery/

Seven Thai transgender dancers filed a lawsuit against the abbot of Sophon Dhammaram Temple in the Isaan province of Surin for insulting them by sharing their pictures and making fun of their appearance. The abbot, Wittaya Sophonwanno, on March 11, shared a picture of seven transwomen performing a traditional Thai dance in angel costumes on his Facebook account. In the caption, he poked fun at them. “If angels look like this, I am willing to live in hell forever…” The post gained attention when one of the transgender dancers shared it on her Facebook, leading to complaints from her followers and the other six dancers in the picture. One of the dancers made her feelings known. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ วิทยา หลวงแอร์ ผิวงาม Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-13 - 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 risks losing satellite orbit rights at 50.5° East due to vacancy by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand’s entitlement to utilise the satellite orbit at 50.5° East may be revoked following its expiration in 2025 due to its prolonged vacancy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322233-thailand-risks-losing-satellite-orbit-rights-at-505°-east-due-to-vacancy/

Thailand’s entitlement to utilise the satellite orbit at 50.5° East may be revoked following its expiration in 2025 due to its prolonged vacancy. There’s speculation in the industry that the upcoming auctions for the unclaimed orbit slots at 50.5° and 142° E by the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) might not be successful. This is due to the expectation that the number of potential bidders will not meet the minimum requirement outlined in the awarding conditions for these slots. An anonymous source from the NBTC disclosed that Thailand’s right to the 50.5° E orbit slot would cease next year, following an extension period granted by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). The right to the 142° E slot will lapse in three years. The NBTC is planning to auction both slots this June, as they went unclaimed in the previous January 2023 auction. The regulator conducted its inaugural auction for the use of satellite orbit slots last year, offering five packages: 50.5° and 51° E; 78.5° E; 119.5° E and 120° E; 126° E; and 142° E. Space Tech Innovation, a subsidiary of the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET)-listed Thaicom, secured the second package for 380 million baht and the third for 417 million. The National Telecom (NT), a state telecommunications enterprise, won the fourth package for 9.07 million baht. The first and fifth packages remained unsold. The NBTC board and management are formulating a fresh plan to award the unclaimed slots, to prevent the ITU from cancelling them. The source from the NBTC indicated that the draft includes alternative awarding methods to auctions, such as a beauty contest, revenue-sharing, and direct slot awarding. Royal Gazette The draft is set to be proposed for a public hearing and announced in the Royal Gazette shortly. The beauty contest method primarily assesses the readiness and qualifications of potential bidders based on their proposals and the proposed benefits to the state. Bidders may only need to pay the reserve price as a minimum payment to the state. The revenue-sharing method specifies the exact rate that rights holders would need to pay to the state. The direct awarding method sets specific conditions for awarding the right to particular companies. The NBTC board is likely to favour the auction method for slot rights, stipulating a low reserve price for winning bidders. An alternative approach involves requiring winning bidders to enter into revenue sharing with the state. The draft stipulates that the bidding must include at least two participants, or the auction must be cancelled, said the source. “It is likely the number of auction participants will be lower than the conditions require.” Prasert Jantararuangthong, the Digital Economy and Society Minister, noted that the ministry will discuss with relevant agencies the distribution of rights to use the two unclaimed orbits. He highlighted the challenge of the commercial market due to the remote coverage positions of the two orbits, located in the Caribbean Sea and the Middle East. Despite this, the responsibility and accountability for awarding the rights fall under the NBTC’s jurisdiction, reported Bangkok Post. NT is unlikely to bid for the two slots as it is currently implementing a turnaround plan and has not utilised the 126° E orbit slot it secured in the previous auction. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-13 - 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

Cambodian worker crushed by cement in crane accident by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post A 28 year old Cambodian worker was crushed beneath a cascade of cement bags at approximately 10am today at a condominium construction site in Nonthaburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322232-cambodian-worker-crushed-by-cement-in-crane-accident/

A 28 year old Cambodian worker was crushed beneath a cascade of cement bags at approximately 10am today at a condominium construction site in Nonthaburi. Upon arrival at the site in Sai Noi district, responders were met with a harrowing sight: the victim, identified as Cambodian worker Boonharn Cherm, lay motionless on the ground floor, her life cut short by injuries to her neck and chest. A preliminary investigation revealed the grim circumstances surrounding her death. According to a statement provided to the police by a staff member, Boonharn had been engaged in the task of transporting 50-kilogramme bags of cement to a wooden pallet earmarked for lifting to the fourth floor by a crane truck. The operation, however, took a tragic turn when the pallet suddenly tilted, causing the cement-laden bags to plummet to the ground below, fatally crushing Boonharn in an instant. The crane truck driver, a 41 year old Cambodian man, fled the scene following the incident. The victim’s husband, Kia Charoen, recounted the horrific ordeal. Having toiled alongside his wife at the construction site for approximately four months, he recounted how Boonharn had loaded five bags of cement onto the ill-fated pallet before it was hoisted into the air. As he waited on the fourth floor to receive the load, tragedy struck with unforgiving force as the pallet tilted, unleashing a torrent of cement bags that claimed his wife’s life, reported Bangkok Post. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are pursuing leads to locate and apprehend the crane driver who fled the scene. In related news, the site of the Chon Buri Provincial Administration Organisation was the scene of a construction mishap on February 12 as an 80-tonne crane dramatically overturned, causing severe damage to a parked pickup truck. The unfortunate incident occurred within the confines of an ongoing five-storey office building project, marking yesterday as a day of unexpected peril. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-13 - 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

Tourists attacked as hungry monkeys swarm Bang Saen Beach by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail In the blistering heat of midday last Friday, March 8, a frenzy of ravenous monkeys cascaded down from Khao Sam Muk, invading Bang Saen Beach in Chon Buri province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322231-tourists-attacked-as-hungry-monkeys-swarm-bang-saen-beach/

In the blistering heat of midday last Friday, March 8, a frenzy of ravenous monkeys cascaded down from Khao Sam Muk, invading Bang Saen Beach in Chon Buri province. With desperation in their eyes, the furry bandits eagerly awaited sustenance from unsuspecting tourists, with some even resorting to car-climbing antics in a desperate bid for food. Reports flooded in of aggressive monkey behaviour when snack-seeking tourists came up short, resulting in unfortunate injuries. One unlucky visitor found themselves on the receiving end of a painful monkey bite to the leg, spotlighting the peril of tangling with wildlife in the area. Despite the injury, the tourist opted against seeking immediate medical aid, underscoring the caution needed in such encounters. This stark shift in monkey temperament sharply contrasts with their more placid counterparts in urban locales like Lopburi. Local authorities and wildlife organisations are discussing strategies to rein in the unruly primate population. Ideas on the table include designated feeding zones and the rollout of sterilisation programmes to curb their numbers. Amidst this chaos, tourists are vehemently cautioned against direct monkey contact, with feeding sessions discouraged to prevent further aggressive outbursts, reported Pattaya Mail. As efforts to address the simian siege advance, both residents and visitors alike must remain vigilant, respecting the natural habitat of these creatures to ensure the safety and well-being of all involved. In related news, the Thai Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP) is contemplating the inclusion of monkeys in its wildlife compensation programme. This consideration arises following an incident where a woman suffered injuries from a macaque attack, leading her to file a police complaint to secure compensation for her medical expenses. In other news, a Thai man was apprehended in the Na Yong district of Trang on February 21 for allegedly peddling macaques on Facebook. by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-13 - 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

Manhunt for TikTok star’s ex after grim find in Thai temple pond by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Channel 8 News YouTube Authorities launched a manhunt for the ex-partner of a TikTok star after her body was discovered in an abandoned pond at a well-known temple in Nakhon Si Thammarat province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322230-manhunt-for-tiktok-star’s-ex-after-grim-find-in-thai-temple-pond/

Authorities launched a manhunt for the ex-partner of a TikTok star after her body was discovered in an abandoned pond at a well-known temple in Nakhon Si Thammarat province. The gruesome discovery was made yesterday, prompting an immediate police investigation into the murder of the 32 year old influencer, Thuzar Aung, known by her nickname, Sa. Residents alerted the police after spotting the corpse in the disused water pit at the back of the market near Wat Thao Kot. The initial assumption by the police is that the body belongs to Sa, a Myanmar national who was reported missing on March 3. Sa, known for her vibrant social media presence, had been living alone in Nakhon Si Thammarat for several months. The TikTok star worked at a local coffee shop and supplemented her income by selling fresh chicken and doing odd jobs at the Huai Brick market. She was remembered by those who knew her as cheerful and friendly, always with a bright disposition. The operation to retrieve the body was arduous. Rescue workers struggled for more than two and a half hours to pull the bloated corpse from the 5-metre-deep water pit. The complexity of the task was exacerbated by the pit’s concrete partitions, requiring rescuers to break through the upper layer to create enough space for extraction. Once the body was recovered, forensic experts and doctors meticulously collected evidence and conducted a thorough examination. Three stab wounds were found on the body, one on the throat and two on the chest. Meanwhile, police investigations revealed that Sa rented a room in Nakhon Si Thammarat and led a quiet life. The TikTok star owned two motorcycles, one of which, a purple Honda Summer X, was found at the scene. CCTV evidence CCTV footage revealed that on the day she disappeared, Sa returned home from her job at around 4.30pm to 5pm. Shortly after, she was seen leaving on her other bike, a pink big bike, wearing a red shirt and black jeans: clothes that matched those on the found body. Further investigation led to the discovery that her ex-partner, 27 year old Pitthaya Bunyatsak aka Nai, had been spotted riding Sa’s big bike on March 4 around 8.30am to 10am. He was seen inquiring about the price of gold, which he allegedly carried 3 bahts in weight. Nai then hired a motorbike taxi to go to Soi Mitrsamphanth, where he abandoned Sa’s bike outside her relative’s house. He then took public transportation to Phuket. Friends of Sa recall that Nai had recently asked her for a loan of 100,000 baht, which leads to suspicion of his involvement in her disappearance and death, reported Sanook. The police are intensifying their efforts to apprehend Nai, who is believed to have fled to Phuket following the crime. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Channel 8 News YouTube Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-13 - 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

Songkran festival projected to generate 24.4 billion baht in revenue by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Nutthawat Wichieanbut The Songkran festival, one of Thailand’s most anticipated events, is projected to yield an impressive 24.4 billion baht (US$682 million) in revenue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322229-songkran-festival-projected-to-generate-244-billion-baht-in-revenue/

The Songkran festival, one of Thailand’s most anticipated events, is projected to yield an impressive 24.4 billion baht (US$682 million) in revenue. This figure is a result of an estimated 510,000 international visitors and 4.29 million domestic trips, as stated by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). In a bid to attract more international tourists, the government unveiled plans for the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024. This event will spotlight the festival’s popular water splashing activities. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT governor, revealed that the revenue from the Songkran holiday, from April 12-16, is predicted to surge by 49% compared to the previous year. The breakdown shows that approximately 15.6 billion baht (US$436 million) is anticipated from the 4.29 million domestic trips. On the other hand, 510,000 foreign tourists are expected to contribute 8.76 billion baht (US$245 million) as they partake in the festival. During the festival, which will take place at Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue in Bangkok from April 11-15, the city is projected to amass 3.7 billion baht (US$103 million) from 635,590 domestic trips. Kiatphaibool also noted that while many locals will be visiting their hometowns in other provinces, tourism in Bangkok will be fuelled by foreign visitors. Moreover, other provinces are expected to reap the benefits of nationwide celebrations, which will be extended across 21 days in April. The government has earmarked 130 million baht (US$3.6 million) for the combined promotional efforts of three ministries. These include the Tourism and Sports, Interior and Culture ministries, which will host Songkran celebrations across all provinces. The Maha Songkran World Water Festival will feature 20 special parades demonstrating Thai culture from all regions, along with parades featuring actors from the Boy Love series, according to the Tourism and Sports Minister, Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol. As of March 10, Thailand has recorded 7.4 million foreign tourists, contributing more than 359 billion baht (US$10 billion) to the economy. The largest share of visitors hails from China, with 1.36 million, followed by Malaysia with 986,234 arrivals, and Russia with 492,302. Key factors driving these figures include visa-free schemes for China, India, Taiwan and Kazakhstan, as well as the resumption of international flights, reported Bangkok Post. The Songkran festival will commence in Chiang Mai from April 1-15. It is set to conclude with the ‘Wan Lai’ festival in Chon Buri from April 19-21, renowned for its later water festival than other provinces. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Nutthawat Wichieanbut Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-13 - 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 to boost rice exports to Hong Kong and China by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post An upward trend in rice exports from Thailand to Hong Kong and China is anticipated this year, with a particular demand for riceberry and brown rice. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322225-thailand-to-boost-rice-exports-to-hong-kong-and-china/

by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post An upward trend in rice exports from Thailand to Hong Kong and China is anticipated this year, with a particular demand for riceberry and brown rice. This expectation is driven by the global economic recovery and a discerning preference for high-quality rice grains. Thailand is also aspiring to establish a distribution centre in Shenzhen to bolster its market presence. The Rice Merchants’ Association of Hong Kong’s chairman, Kenneth Chan, and a representative from China Merchants Godown, Wharf & Transportation Co, recently held discussions with Commerce Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The talks revolved around Thailand’s R&D policy to improve rice quality and cater to the distinct needs of various consumer groups. The intent is to maintain a competitive edge in the international rice market. This year, Hong Kong is estimated to import approximately 180,000 tonnes of Thai rice, a significant increase from last year’s 150,000 tonnes. The majority of the imports will likely be Thai jasmine rice. On March 8-9, Phumtham expressed interest in setting up a distribution centre in Shenzhen during meetings with Thai jasmine rice importers. The Commerce Ministry is prepared to facilitate negotiations with the Chinese government regarding land leasing for the proposed project. Further discussions with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin are on the agenda. Hong Kong is the third-largest export market for Thai jasmine rice, trailing behind the US and China. Last year, Hong Kong imported a total of 257,200 tonnes of rice, of which 57.7% (148,500 tonnes) originated from Thailand, 23.4% (60,100 tonnes) from Vietnam, and 8.2% (21,200 tonnes) from China. Commitment from rice merchants’ association of Hong Kong The Rice Merchants’ Association of Hong Kong has confirmed its continued commitment to importing rice from Thailand, expressing confidence in the quality and standards of Thai rice. Phumtham inspected the jasmine rice storage facility in Hong Kong and affirmed its high standards, noting its capacity to maintain the quality of Thai rice. Given the limited space and high humidity, rice importers are required to lease temperature and humidity-controlled vertical rice warehouses to preserve the quality and aroma of Thai jasmine rice. The association, established in 1919, manages rice import and distribution in Hong Kong, currently boasting 50 members. Chan stated that Hong Kong rice importers maintain a strong relationship with the Thai Rice Exporters Association, with annual trade missions further solidifying this bond. Rice is a fundamental food staple in Hong Kong and is listed as a reserved commodity under a government-controlled scheme to ensure fair pricing and adequate supply. Hong Kong accommodates 238 registered rice importers and operates 142 storage facilities, reported Bangkok Post. The Thai government has set an ambitious goal to export 7.5 million tonnes of rice by 2024, anticipating strong demand. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-13 - 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

Krungsri Auto predicts minimal growth in new auto loans despite EV boom by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Pattarapong Chatpattarasill Krungsri Auto, Thailand’s leading auto loan provider, predicts a mere 0.4% increase in its new auto loans for 2024, despite the anticipated boom in electric vehicle (EV) sales at the upcoming 45th Bangkok International Motor Show. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322224-krungsri-auto-predicts-minimal-growth-in-new-auto-loans-despite-ev-boom/

Krungsri Auto, Thailand’s leading auto loan provider, predicts a mere 0.4% increase in its new auto loans for 2024, despite the anticipated boom in electric vehicle (EV) sales at the upcoming 45th Bangkok International Motor Show. This forecast was shared by Congsin Congcar, the head of Krungsri Auto Group, after the company issued over 223 billion baht in new auto loans last year. The Federation of Thai Industries has indicated that stringent auto loan criteria are likely to persist due to concerns about high household debt levels, leading to a high loan rejection rate. However, Krungsri Auto secured a 50% market share in new EV loans last year, according to Congcar. The Bangkok International Motor Show, scheduled to commence on March 27th at the Impact Exhibition Center, is expected to host a number of new EV manufacturers presenting their vehicles for the first time. Among them are Vinfast, a Vietnamese firm launching battery-powered sports utility vehicles and an electric pickup concept, and Changan, a Chinese EV maker presenting their new ‘Lumin Mini EV’ model. Jaturont Komolmis, Chief Operating Officer of Grand Prix International, the event’s organiser, anticipates a 12% rise in both visitors and exhibitors from the previous figure of over 1.6 million. Furthermore, the number of car brands is expected to increase from 40 to 49. Prachin Eamlumnow, Chief Executive of Grand Prix International and chairman of the 45th Bangkok International Motor Show, asserts the return of visitor and exhibitor numbers to pre-pandemic levels is a positive indication for the Thai industry. However, he remains cautious about predicting the number of car bookings for this year’s show, given the multiple contributing factors. For context, the 2023 event witnessed a total of 40,000 car bookings, reported Bangkok Post. In related news, battery electric vehicle (BEV) sales in Thailand surged by 603% in 2023, driven by state incentives and promising market growth, despite Apple’s withdrawal from EV manufacturing efforts. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Pattarapong Chatpattarasill Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-13 - 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

Six businessmen face PACC summons over illegal land acquisition by Mitch Connor PHOTO: Nang Rong Waterfall, Khao Yai National Paark via Freepik Six businessmen are soon to be summoned by the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) on suspicions of unlawfully obtaining land plots allocated for landless farmers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322222-six-businessmen-face-pacc-summons-over-illegal-land-acquisition/

Six businessmen are soon to be summoned by the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC) on suspicions of unlawfully obtaining land plots allocated for landless farmers. The news was announced on Tuesday by Thanadon Suwannarit, an adviser to the Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister, Thamanat Prompow. Thanadon brought forth this development as he presented officials, well-versed in land distribution laws, to the PACC as witnesses in an ongoing investigation into land encroachment within the boundaries of Khao Yai National Park. He pointed out that the investigation has yielded significant progress, having identified the suspects. The probe conducted by the ministry had earlier revealed multiple farmers flouting regulations concerning the use of Sor Por Kor land surrounding the park. These violations range from illegal soil excavation for commercial gain to the sale of these plots to ineligible individuals or entities. Subsequently, both the ministry and the Anti-Money Laundering Office are devising strategies to confiscate the properties of those implicated in the illegal use or transfer of Sor Por Kor plots. Thanadon also highlighted the suspected involvement of two officials from the Agricultural Land Reform Office (Alro) located in tambon Moosi, in Nakhon Ratchasima’s Pak Chong district, in the unlawful allocation of the Sor Por Kor land reform plots. He indicated that arrest warrants are imminent and an additional seven officials will be subjected to questioning. According to Thanadon, the ministry discovered that three Sor Por Kor plots are under the occupation of a significant corporation. He further disclosed his plans to lead an inspection of the Sor Por Kor land encroachment across the nation within the coming weeks, reported Bangkok Post. In related news, a probe into land encroachment at Khao Yai National Park led to plans to reclaim illegal properties. Officials faced penalties as authorities investigated corruption. Collaborating with the Anti-Money Laundering Office, a joint committee aimed to combat corruption in agriculture. The investigation implicated officials and revealed illicit transactions involving Sor Por Kor plots. by Mitch Connor PHOTO: Nang Rong Waterfall, Khao Yai National Paark via Freepik Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-13 - 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

Arrest warrants issued in money laundering probe linked to illegal gambling by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The arrest of three police officers and a civilian is on the horizon as warrants have been sanctioned in relation to allegations of money laundering tied to an illicit online gambling network. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322187-pol-gen-surachate-summoned-in-online-gambling-investigation/?do=findComment&comment=18762719

Arrest warrants issued in money laundering probe linked to illegal gambling by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The arrest of three police officers and a civilian is on the horizon as warrants have been sanctioned in relation to allegations of money laundering tied to an illicit online gambling network. A high-ranking police officer has also been issued a summons in connection with the same case. The Metropolitan Police Bureau’s deputy commissioner, Thinnakorn Rangmat, confirmed on Tuesday that the officer who will be summoned holds a general’s rank. However, he refrained from disclosing the identities of the accused individuals. An insider privy to the investigation revealed that the arrest warrants were sought after the discovery of financial connections between the accused five individuals and the illegal online gambling site, BNKMaster. This website was shut down last year following a crackdown. The investigation led to the revelation that funds were transferred to an associate of a senior police officer. Consequently, this aide has been slapped with money laundering charges. Following the evaluation of the request by Thinnakorn Rangmat, the Criminal Court sanctioned the arrest warrants for the quartet and sent out a summons for the high-ranking officer, considering his seniority, as per the insider. Lawyers representing deputy national police chief Surachate Hakparn, also known as ‘Big Joke,’ refuted claims on Tuesday that the court had summoned Surachate for interrogation. They acknowledged that an attempt was made to procure an arrest warrant for Surachate, but the evidence presented was deemed insufficient, reported Bangkok Post. In related news, in a high-profile case, Deputy Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police, Surachate ‘Big Joke’ Hakparn, faced charges related to financial transactions with online gambling operators. The Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau raided his home over alleged involvement. Eight subordinates were implicated in the gambling ring. Further investigation revealed financial links, leading to charges against Big Joke and other high-ranking officers. Despite his denial, evidence indicated his involvement, resulting in potential imprisonment. The case had significant repercussions within the RTP. Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-13 - 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 - Wednesday 13 March 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322220-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-13-march-2024/