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Picture courtesy of Bngkok Post The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is preparing to embark on essential repairs to the iconic Giant Swing amid escalating concerns regarding its structural integrity. This monumental task comes after a comprehensive inspection revealed significant deterioration in the landmark, raising alarms about its safety and future. Thaiwut Khankaew, the director of BMA's City Planning and Development Office, announced the impending repair works following a collaborative assessment with the Thailand Structural Engineers Association (TSEA). The findings from the inspection pointed to severe damage, including cracks, peeling, and general weakening of the wood—a consequence of relentless exposure to weather, fluctuating temperatures, and inevitable natural ageing of materials. Such issues, officials noted, present a tangible threat to the Giant Swing's stability. The TSEA has urgently advised reinforcing the structure before the onset of the summer storm season. Once stabilised, a more in-depth examination will aid in selecting the most appropriate restoration techniques. Mr Thaiwut explained that the repair strategy would involve different levels of intervention, costing a substantial amount of fiscal outlay and time, all while strictly adhering to guidelines set by the Fine Arts Department. To ensure transparency and efficiency, the BMA plans to initiate a bidding process to secure a contractor tasked with these critical reinforcements. He also mentioned hiring a consultant to study potential restoration methods, whose recommendations will be submitted for approval to the Fine Arts Department. Located adjacent to City Hall in the Phra Nakhon district, the Giant Swing, or Sao Chingcha, holds significant historical value. It was officially recognised as a historical site in 1988. The Fine Arts Department, acknowledging the structure's perilous state, has given the nod to the City Planning and Development Office to advance with necessary repairs. The department stresses using traditional materials and meticulous attention to historical detail, cautioning against modern alterations that could compromise the site's heritage. The last comprehensive restoration of the Giant Swing occurred back in December 2017, a joint effort by the BMA and the Fine Arts Department. This current initiative underscores the ongoing commitment to preserving this cultural emblem for future generations, estimated to involve several million Thai Baht. As Bangkok braces for the advent of summer storms, the urgency in reinforcing this treasured landmark cannot be overstated. Locals and tourists alike eagerly anticipate the day when the Giant Swing stands fully restored, continuing to be a symbol of Bangkok’s rich heritage and resilience, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-13

Bangkok's Iconic Giant Swing Set for Critical Repairs Picture courtesy of Bngkok Post The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is preparing to embark on essential repairs to the iconic Giant Swing amid escalating concerns regarding its structural integrity. This monumental task comes after a comprehensive inspection revealed significant deterioration in the landmark, raising alarms about its safety and future. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354445-bangkoks-iconic-giant-swing-set-for-critical-repairs/

Labour Ministry to Assist Investigation in SKYY9 Centre Overpayment Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. Picture courtesy Bangkok Post In a move to ensure transparency, the Ministry of Labour has pledged full cooperation with an inquiry into alleged overpayment by the Social Security Office (SSO) for the SKYY9 Centre on Rama IX Road. The office reportedly spent 6.9 billion baht on a building purportedly worth only 3 billion baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354444-labour-ministry-to-assist-investigation-in-skyy9-centre-overpayment/

Court Dismisses Thai Cabinet's Plea for Clarification on Minister Ethics Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's Constitutional Court has dismissed a petition from the cabinet seeking clarity on "a lack of clear honesty" under current legal frameworks. The petition was rejected on Wednesday on the grounds that it pertained to legal interpretation, thus not meeting the criteria for judicial review. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354443-court-dismisses-thai-cabinets-plea-for-clarification-on-minister-ethics/

Thai Pilots Plan Legal Action Against Labour Ministry Over Foreign Pilot Permits Picture courtesy of Wikipedia The Thai Pilots Association is gearing up for a legal battle against the Labour Ministry, intending to file a lawsuit in the Administrative Court this Friday. The association seeks a temporary injunction against foreign pilots operating domestic flights, invoking concerns over job opportunities and the future of Thailand's aviation industry. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354441-thai-pilots-plan-legal-action-against-labour-ministry-over-foreign-pilot-permits/

Constitutional Court Urged to Annul Thai Senatorial Elections Picture courtesy of Thai Rath In an unprecedented move today, former Office of the Ombudsman adviser Nataporn Toprayoon called upon Thailand's Constitutional Court to invalidate last year's senatorial elections, citing significant misconduct by the Election Commission. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354431-constitutional-court-urged-to-annul-thai-senatorial-elections/

Warning to Parents: Skewer Accident Highlights Safety Tip Image courtesy of Daily News A popular Facebook page has issued a warning to parents after a young child was injured when a grilled pork skewer pierced their face. The advice: always break off the sharp ends of skewers before giving them to your children. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354428-warning-to-parents-skewer-accident-highlights-safety-tip/

Picture courtesy of Thai Rath In an unprecedented move today, former Office of the Ombudsman adviser Nataporn Toprayoon called upon Thailand's Constitutional Court to invalidate last year's senatorial elections, citing significant misconduct by the Election Commission. This plea has reawakened debates over the integrity of the country's political institutions and the role of senators, with potentially far-reaching consequences. Nataporn has petitioned the Constitutional Court to find the Election Commission guilty of negligence and misconduct, suggesting that nearly 70% of the elected senators—about 138 out of 200—benefited from electoral rigging. The former adviser is requesting the court to declare these races null and void, thereby questioning the legitimacy of the incumbents' legislative duties. The ongoing investigation by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) into these allegations adds weight to Nataporn's demands. Further compounding the situation, most accused senators have filed accusations of power abuse against Justice Minister Thavi Sodsong and DSI Director-General Yutthana Praedum. The latter has been instrumental in leading the probe into these electoral discrepancies. Beyond individual accountability, Nataporn points to potential institutional ramifications. He suggests that a political party—widely perceived to be the Bhumjaithai Party, the second-largest coalition partner, unofficially led by Newin Chidchob—could face severe legal repercussions. If found guilty of orchestrating this alleged electoral fraud, the party might face dissolution by the court's order. The dream outcome for Nataporn and his supporters would be sweeping reform, which could fundamentally reshape Thai democracy. The implicated senators have reportedly acted in alignment with Bhumjaithai's agenda since their election, leveraging potential illegal activities to influence significant legislative decisions. The current currency conversion applies an exchange rate of approximately 37 Thai Baht (THB) to 1 US dollar. With the stakes so high for all involved parties, the political landscape could see dramatic shifts, echoing across discussions in Parliament, beyond borders, and into international dialogues about electoral integrity and governance. As the Constitutional Court considers the petitions, Thailand watches eagerly, anticipating potential reforms that could redefine political decorum. Whether motivated by integrity or driven by hidden agendas, the unfolding drama might just set a new precedent for political accountability, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-03-13

Picture courtesy of Wikipedia The Thai Pilots Association is gearing up for a legal battle against the Labour Ministry, intending to file a lawsuit in the Administrative Court this Friday. The association seeks a temporary injunction against foreign pilots operating domestic flights, invoking concerns over job opportunities and the future of Thailand's aviation industry. This move comes in response to a cabinet decision made last December, which temporarily allowed foreign pilots to operate domestic flights through wet lease agreements—measures aimed at alleviating aircraft shortages. However, this decision has stirred controversy among local pilots. Teerawat Angkasakulkiat, president of the Thai Pilots Association, argues that the cabinet's approval infringes upon two significant laws: the 2017 Foreigners Working Management Emergency Decree and the 1954 Air Navigation Act. He points out that Section 7 of the Ministry's decree explicitly bans foreigners from flying domestic routes. While the decree does offer exceptions under Section 14 for national security, economic security, and public disaster prevention, Teerawat asserts that bolstering the tourism industry does not qualify as an exception related to economic security. The Air Navigation Act further stipulates, under Section 44, that pilots must be Thai nationals unless special approval is granted by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT). Teerawat stresses that the wet lease arrangement categorises pilots as on-duty officers, and claims no such exception has been authorised by CAAT. Therefore, he argues, the Labour Ministry and the cabinet lack the legal authority to authorise foreign pilot employment. In a broader context, Teerawat expresses concern that normalising wet lease agreements could harm Thailand's aviation sector long-term. He points out that numerous local pilots remain unemployed despite being ready for work, suggesting that employing foreign pilots diminishes job prospects for these professionals. Furthermore, this policy might deter airlines from investing in training Thai pilots, potentially destabilising the industry. The association plans to proceed with the court filing tomorrow, recognising the legal outcome is uncertain but committed to defending domestic pilot interests. Teerawat also worries about the possibility of extending the temporary pilot permits beyond an initial one-year period, which could set a precedent affecting the aviation industry's framework in Thailand, reportedn Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-13

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's Constitutional Court has dismissed a petition from the cabinet seeking clarity on "a lack of clear honesty" under current legal frameworks. The petition was rejected on Wednesday on the grounds that it pertained to legal interpretation, thus not meeting the criteria for judicial review. The plea, initiated by Prime Minister's Office Minister Chousak Sirinil on the cabinet's behalf, sought elucidation of Section 160 of the constitution and Section 9 of the Holders of Political Positions Act. These sections dictate the ethical and moral standards required of cabinet ministers and other political office-holders, mandating clear honesty and the absence of serious ethical breaches. Linkages have been drawn between this petition and Thailand's former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin's removal from office by the Constitutional Court last August. His ousting followed an ethical violation involving the contentious appointment of Pichit Chuenban, a former convict, as a cabinet minister. The court had previously emphasised the importance of sound judgement in ministerial appointments for royal approval. The court retains authority to adjudicate on matters involving constitutional roles and powers vested in the governmental and legislative branches, as per Section 210 of the constitution. However, it specified that petitions must relate to an existing dispute over constitutional duties and powers. In the cabinet's case, the court found the petition to be a mere request for interpretation rather than resolution of a specific disagreement, leading to its rejection. The ruling, decided by an 8-1 majority, saw only one dissenting voice from Judge Udom Sitthiwirattham, who argued that the petition met the necessary criteria for examination. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra had earlier clarified the cabinet’s request was not connected to any anticipated cabinet reshuffle but was a preventative measure against potential future ethical complaints. Following Mr. Srettha's removal, there has been speculation that Section 160 might be wielded against the current cabinet under similar ethical scrutiny. The court's decision to reject the plea highlights the judiciary's stance on maintaining the distinction between legal interpretation and judicial review scope, upholding the procedural safeguards embedded in Thailand's constitutional framework, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-13

Thai Police Nab Gang Smuggling Chinese Nationals into Country Picture courtesy of Siam Rath On 12th June, Thai Highway Police, under the direction of Pol Maj Gen Kongkrit Lertsithikun, apprehended a gang involved in smuggling Chinese nationals illegally into Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354426-thai-police-nab-gang-smuggling-chinese-nationals-into-country/

Adam Pickles: UK Murder Inquiry Linked to 2012 Pattaya Assault Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In a poignant development, British authorities have reignited investigations into the chilling assault of a Briton, Adam Pickles, in Pattaya, Thailand, over a decade ago. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354419-adam-pickles-uk-murder-inquiry-linked-to-2012-pattaya-assault/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In a poignant development, British authorities have reignited investigations into the chilling assault of a Briton, Adam Pickles, in Pattaya, Thailand, over a decade ago. Pickles, known for his role as the head of English at Regents International School in Pattaya, suffered catastrophic brain injuries from a brutal attack in May 2012, which ultimately led to his passing in West Yorkshire in January 2021. The shocking incident unfolded when Pickles was attacked with an iron bar, allegedly over a road rage dispute. The assault left him requiring constant care until his death, having been repatriated to the UK following a fundraising campaign. Although Sean Tinsley, a Wolverhampton native, was sentenced in 2015 to six years for the assault—downgraded from attempted murder after an appeal—the identity of those behind the attack still raises questions. West Yorkshire Police are now making a renewed appeal for information, hoping to uncover new leads in this complex case. Their plea for assistance was made on the BBC's Crimewatch Live series, triggering interest and reopening the dialogue among those who may have valuable insights about the incident. Detective Chief Inspector Damian Roebuck, leading the investigation, emphasised the importance of contacts in Thailand who might hold crucial information. "We believe that someone out there may have been confided in or heard something pertinent to the case," Roebuck stated, urging those with any piece of information, no matter how insignificant it might seem, to come forward. He added, "Adam’s devastating injuries transpired into a life sentence for both him and his family. We owe it to them to ensure justice is served." The police have opened additional channels, allowing individuals to share information via their official helpline or through anonymous submissions to the charity Crimestoppers. The episode of Crimewatch Live featuring this case is available on BBC iPlayer, giving further reach to the appeal. With the stakes high, the tenacity of law enforcement, combined with public co-operation, holds the potential to finally close this chapter for Pickles' family, who remain steadfast in their pursuit of justice, reported Bangkok Post. A 2017 video appeals for support for teacher Adam Pickles, who was seriously injured. -- 2025-03-13

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath On 12th June, Thai Highway Police, under the direction of Pol Maj Gen Kongkrit Lertsithikun, apprehended a gang involved in smuggling Chinese nationals illegally into Thailand. The operation, led by Pol Col Thach Phosuwan and his team, ended with the arrest of 31-year-old Jittikorn, who faces charges for facilitating illegal entry and providing housing to undocumented immigrants. Alongside him, five Chinese individuals were detained for entering the country without proper authorisation. The arrests took place on Asia Highway, inbound towards Bangkok, near Bang Pa-in, Ayutthaya. Suspicion arose when officers patrolling the highway noticed two pickup trucks behaving unusually. Upon stopping the vehicles for inspection, seven Chinese nationals were discovered hidden inside. Checks revealed that five of them had no legal entry permits, while only two had entered Thailand lawfully. During questioning, Jittikorn admitted to being hired by an acquaintance to transport the individuals from Tak province to Bangkok for a fee of 6,500 baht, fully aware of their illegal status. The Chinese nationals confessed, through an interpreter, to entering Thailand via natural border routes near Mae Sot, Tak, aimed at securing employment in Bangkok. All suspects have been handed over to immigration authorities for further legal processing, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-03-13

Image courtesy of Daily News A popular Facebook page has issued a warning to parents after a young child was injured when a grilled pork skewer pierced their face. The advice: always break off the sharp ends of skewers before giving them to your children. On 13th March, the 'Issor Breaking News' page shared a post with photos illustrating the potential dangers of sharp skewers in children's meals. The post cautioned parents to be vigilant, especially when children eat foods with skewers, like grilled pork sticks. The incident occurred when a young child was eating skewered pork while on a motorcycle; a sudden brake caused the skewer to pierce their face. Fortunately, the injury missed any critical areas. The post serves as a crucial reminder to break off the sharp points of skewers to prevent severe accidents. The page urges everyone to exercise these simple safety measures to protect children from harm, reported Daiy News. -- 2025-03-13

Foreign Gambling Ring Busted in Luxury Bangkok Condo Picture courtesy of Daiky News Thai authorities have dismantled an international gambling ring operating from a rented luxury condo in Bangkok, revealing a web of illegal online gambling with significant financial turnover. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354447-foreign-gambling-ring-busted-in-luxury-bangkok-condo/

Picture courtesy of Daily News Thai authorities have dismantled an international gambling ring operating from a rented luxury condo in Bangkok, revealing a web of illegal online gambling with significant financial turnover. In a coordinated operation, officers from Immigration Division 1, Sutthisan Police Station, and the Tourist Police Investigative Division raided a luxury condo in the Ladprao area of Bangkok. Acting on a tip-off, the authorities discovered foreign nationals—one from China and three from Vietnam—who were reportedly running an illicit online gambling site. The investigation found evidence of extensive financial activity, with millions of baht believed to be circulating through this operation monthly. The arrested individuals admitted to managing the gambling site for a monthly fee of approximately 50,000 baht. Among the seized items were eight laptops, seven mobile phones, and three hardware wallets. This crackdown aligns with the Thai government’s directive for stringent action against foreign entities using the country as a base for illegal online gambling. Officers have been instructed to identify and apprehend offenders, especially foreigners misusing their visas for criminal activities in Thailand. Major General Parasat Khemmasit, head of Immigration Division 1, stressed that foreign nationals tend to rent condos or apartments collectively and maintain a low profile to avoid detection. Residents and property owners are urged to report suspicious activities to the immigration office or via hotline 1178, to help curb the misuse of Thai territories for such illegal operations, reported Daily News. -- 2025-03-13

UPDATE: British Tourist Faces 10-Year Sentence for Cannabis Smuggling in Krabi Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail Daniel James Hallett, a 38-year-old British tourist from Hull, is potentially facing a decade-long prison sentence in Thailand after allegedly attempting to smuggle 38 kilos of cannabis at Krabi Airport. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354084-13kg-of-cannabis-found-in-krabi-airport-bathroom-suitcase/#findComment-19653676

Nigerian Dealer Busted in Phuket After Viral Drug Video Leads to Arrest - video Photo via Facebook/ เหยี่ยวข่าว ภูเก็ต Newshawk Phuket A Nigerian man was arrested in Phuket after a viral video exposed a drug transaction involving cocaine. The video, shared by the Facebook page "Phuket is so brutal", captured two foreigners using the illegal substance by the roadside, sparking public outrage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354387-nigerian-dealer-busted-in-phuket-after-viral-drug-video-leads-to-arrest-video/

Nigerian Men Arrested for Drifting: Sang to Police to Evade Arrest - video Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ In an unusual turn of events, two Nigerian men were arrested in Phuket last night after being caught drifting a sedan in the middle of a busy intersection. The incident, which occurred at the Koh Kaew Intersection on Thep Krasattri Road, was widely shared online, drawing attention to the brazen behaviour of the suspects. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354386-nigerian-men-arrested-for-drifting-sang-to-police-to-evade-arrest-video/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 13 March 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1354385-thailand-live-thursday-13-march-2025/

Phuket Hit-and-Run: Police Hunt Knife-Wielding Foreigners Image screenshot from video Authorities in Phuket are on the hunt for three foreign individuals involved in a hit-and-run incident that occurred outside Patong Hospital three days ago. The culprits allegedly collided with a Thai motorcyclist using a pickup truck and subsequently threatened him with a knife when confronted. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354384-phuket-hit-and-run-police-hunt-knife-wielding-foreigners/

Super Pussy Prank Steals Show at Thai Football Event In a playful twist at the Icons of Football tournament in Thailand, a cheeky prank involving former Premier League footballers has become the talk of the town, blending the excitement of sport with an unexpected touch of humor. The event, hosted in Bangkok, saw legendary players from Team England and Team World gather for a Ryder Cup-style golf competition, but it was a gleeful stunt that stole the show. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354360-super-pussy-prank-steals-show-at-thai-football-event/

In a playful twist at the Icons of Football tournament in Thailand, a cheeky prank involving former Premier League footballers has become the talk of the town, blending the excitement of sport with an unexpected touch of humour. The event, hosted in Bangkok, saw legendary players from Team England and Team World gather for a Ryder Cup-style golf competition, but it was a gleeful stunt that stole the show. The mastermind behind this amusing escapade, known on Instagram as "farangsgonewild," hatched his plan by first attending the quirky Super Pussy ping-pong show in Patpong, Bangkok. There, he acquired a peculiar souvenir: a humorous sketch of a Thai elephant, which he intended to playfully weave into the day's events. Armed with the sketch, the prankster made his way to Robinswood Golf Club, where the football luminaries, including icons like John Terry, Robbie Fowler, and Paul Scholes, were preparing for their golf match. Craftily, farangsgonewild approached these sporting heroes, requesting their autographs on the unusual artwork, which they obliged, unknowingly adding to the lively gag. The resulting viral video reveals the unsuspecting players signing the comically sourced sketch, contributing to a flurry of laughter and enjoyment that lit up social media. This delightful prank added an engaging and light-hearted dimension to the day’s festivities. Meanwhile, amid the jovial antics, the golf tournament unfolded with Team England clinching victory over Team World with a score of 72-33. England's captain, Lee Westwood, commended his team’s skill and the seamless transition from pitch to green, celebrating a well-deserved triumph. Picture signed by the Icons of Football stars courtesy of farangsgonewild In reflection, Team World captain Sergio Garcia expressed pride in his team despite the defeat, acknowledging the fierce competition from both sides. "The English team played great golf, but my guys did too, and I'm super proud of them," Garcia noted, appreciating England's superior performance on this occasion. In blending humour with sport, the Icons of Football event in Thailand showcased a remarkable coming together of old footballing rivals, united not just by their love of the game but by a shared sense of camaraderie and humour. This unforgettable blend of action and amusement ensures the tournament will be remembered for both the prowess on the course and the unprecedented pranks off it, reportedn THe Thaiger. -- 2025-03-12

German Man Arrested in Maha Sarakham for Drugs and 377-Day Overstay Pictures courtesy of Siam Rath In Maha Sarakham, immigration police have arrested a 53-year-old German national, known as Mr Thomas, for drug possession and overstaying his visa by 377 days. The arrest took place at a resort in the Khwao area of Mueang Maha Sarakham district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354348-german-man-arrested-in-maha-sarakham-for-drugs-and-377-day-overstay/