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Chulalongkorn University is currently under pressure from an alumni group, Network of Universities Reform, to reveal the findings of an investigation into an alleged fraudulent doctoral research paper. The contentious thesis, penned by Nattapon Jaijin, has been under scrutiny for three years, a fact that has sparked frustration within the group. The group’s leader, Wirangrong Dabbaransi, has taken to Facebook to voice her displeasure and call for transparency from the university. She confirmed that the investigation has concluded, and its findings have been handed over to the committee chairman. However, the release of the findings is now reliant on the university council, who are believed to own them. The drawn-out nature of this process is contrasted by the swift resolution of a related defamation trial. Nattapon had claimed that Chaiyan Chaiyaporn, a political science professor at Chulalongkorn University, had defamed him and sought 1 million baht (US$28,265) in damages. The court ruled in favour of the professor on March 5, citing academic freedom of expression. Chaiyaporn had accused Nattapon of including 31 instances of inconsistent and inaccurate references in his thesis, which discusses Thai politics under the leadership of Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram, the prime minister from 1948 to 1957. This dispute led to the defamation suit and the university’s subsequent investigation. In a disturbing twist, Wirangrong mentioned a circulating rumour that even if the research paper were found to contain falsified information, the university may not have the authority to rescind Jaijin’s doctoral degree. She expressed concern that this, along with the delay in the release of the probe’s findings, could potentially damage the university’s reputation and mislead the public about the role of the monarchy, thereby threatening national security, reported Bangkok Post. In light of these issues, Wirangrong has called on the university to disclose the investigation results. She advised that if the university is unable to revoke Jaijin’s degree, they should at the very least annul his thesis, and if there are further delays in revealing the investigation’s findings, the university should provide a clear timeline for conclusion. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of ThaiPost Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-11 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Udon Thani college guard finds corpse in shocking discovery by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A startling discovery at a prominent technical college in Udon Thani province shook the local community when a security guard stumbled upon the body of a man dressed in black, lying beneath a bridge near the college. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322063-udon-thani-college-guard-finds-corpse-in-shocking-discovery/

A startling discovery at a prominent technical college in Udon Thani province shook the local community when a security guard stumbled upon the body of a man dressed in black, lying beneath a bridge near the college. The guard, initially mistaking the figure for a rubber doll, was horrified to find it was a corpse, setting off a police investigation into the mysterious death. This morning, a security officer at a technical college in Udon Thani province was conducting a routine perimeter check when something unusual caught his eye beneath a bridge near the institution. Expecting a discarded mannequin, he approached for a closer look, only to recoil in shock at the sight of a deceased man clad in black. The grisly scene unfolded at approximately 8.30am, as the body lay face down, showing signs of a violent encounter. The victim, a man estimated to be between 50 to 60 years old, was dressed in a black T-shirt and jeans, without shoes, his face bearing the marks of a brutal beating with a blunt object. His injuries were severe, and his face swollen and discoloured, indicating he had been deceased for no less than six hours before the body was discovered. No identification was found on the body, which had begun to show signs of early decomposition. Lieutenant Thanawat Thongwilai, the investigating officer from Mueang Udon Thani Police Station, was notified of the incident and quickly arrived on the scene with a team of detectives, a medical examiner from Udon Thani Centre Hospital, and rescue workers to examine the body and gather evidence. The initial assessment suggested that the man may have been killed elsewhere before his body was dumped under the bridge, a theory that police are pursuing as they search for clues to the perpetrator’s identity. A local traffic police officer recognised the victim as resembling a construction worker from a nearby building materials store who was known to frequently consume alcohol. This lead, along with witness statements and surveillance footage from the area, is being used to piece together the victim’s final hours and identify a suspect. Sangchan, a 59 year old security guard at the college, recounted the horrifying moment of discovery. Initially disbelieving, he rubbed his eyes repeatedly before the grim reality set in. Overcome with fear and shock, he fled the scene to alert his colleagues and call the police, reported KhaoSod. The police are continuing their investigation, examining surveillance footage, and conducting inquiries to apprehend the individual responsible for this heinous act. by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-11 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

AI-driven project launched to tackle Bangkok’s traffic congestion by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Markus Winkler, Unsplash An artificial intelligence (AI) technology-driven project, the Ratchaprasong Model, has been launched by the government to combat excessive traffic congestion in the bustling business district of Ratchaprasong. This area is also recognised as a tourist hotspot in the capital. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322062-ai-driven-project-launched-to-tackle-bangkok’s-traffic-congestion/

An artificial intelligence (AI) technology-driven project, the Ratchaprasong Model, has been launched by the government to combat excessive traffic congestion in the bustling business district of Ratchaprasong. This area is also recognised as a tourist hotspot in the capital. The inauguration of the project was presided over by the Prime Minister’s Office Minister, Puangpet Chunlaiad, and vice minister Warawut Yanjareon, on Friday in the Ratchaprasong area. Other attendees included representatives from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), the Tourist Police Bureau, the Royal Thai Police, and executives from the area’s shopping centres. The initiative is intended to streamline traffic flow on roads leading to the intersection while also enhancing security measures and boosting tourists’ confidence in the vicinity, including the adjacent Ratchadamri Road. Central to the traffic management model is an AI system developed by the BMA. It uses CCTV cameras to identify vehicles, predominantly taxis, buses, and tuk tuks, that remain parked outside shopping centres for longer than three minutes. Such traffic violations contribute significantly to the area’s notorious congestion. Bangkok Deputy Governor Wisanu Subsompon pointed out that footage from the CCTV cameras capturing the vehicles’ licence plates will be used as evidence for issuing tickets. “The tickets will then be dispatched to the vehicle owners responsible for paying the fines. We can’t always dispatch the police to deal with illegally parked vehicles.” Wisanu also mentioned plans to extend the system to other parts of Bangkok. Puangpet highlighted that the project is one of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s pilot initiatives aimed at improving the tourism landscape. It involves collaboration with several state agencies and privately owned businesses located around the Ratchaprasong intersection. Public transport operators and local businesses will also play their part in the project by designating parking spaces, drop-off points, and waiting areas for passengers. These measures are expected to further alleviate traffic congestion in the area, reported Bangkok Post. The AI-driven traffic monitoring system is one among five strategies designed to address traffic issues in the area. The other strategies include displaying signs to discourage tourists and customers from using transport that violates the law, rigorously enforcing traffic laws, and implementing social sanctions against violators. by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Markus Winkler, Unsplash Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-11 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Paetongtarn Shinawatra: Thailand’s political sector’s rising star by Mitch Connor Credit Paetongtarn Shinawatra official Instagram - ingshin21 Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the dynamic youngest daughter of former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, is making waves in the nation’s political sector. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322061-paetongtarn-shinawatra-thailand’s-political-sector’s-rising-star/

Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the dynamic youngest daughter of former Thai prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, is making waves in the nation’s political sector. As the current leader of the ruling Pheu Thai Party, she brings a combination of academic prowess and political lineage to the table. Holding degrees in Sociology and Anthropology from Chulalongkorn University and in International Hotel Management from the University of Surrey, she is also enlisted in a national defence programme at the National Defence College. Her political career took off in 2021 when she was appointed the chair of Pheu Thai’s advisory committee on political participation and innovation. Her father’s political career, which began when she was just eight years old, exposed her to the world of politics and inspired her ambitions. Paetongtarn Shinawatra stated, “I feel like politics isn’t entirely new to me because when I was eight years old, my dad started his own political party. I had the opportunity to attend several meetings with him and meet many people, ‘big name’ people.” Continuing on her political trajectory, on March 20, 2022, she assumed the leadership of the ‘Pheu Thai Family’. This strategic move positioned her well for the upcoming national election, where she emerged as a prime ministerial candidate of the party. In the wake of the election, when the former party leader, Cholnan Srikaew, stepped down, Paetongtarn Shinawatra was the clear choice for the top position. Today, she stands as one of the most powerful women in the Pheu Thai-led coalition. Despite critics attributing her rise to her father’s influence, she remains steadfast in her commitment to bring about societal change. The political leader said, “The very first day I entered politics, I didn’t ask for any position or role in the party. I simply hoped that I could do something to bring about change. I believe I’ve stayed in politics for so long because of that.” Championing soft power In addition to her political roles, Paetongtarn Shinawatra is the chair of the national committee on soft power development. The committee aims to elevate Thailand’s global recognition in 11 areas, including fashion, books, films, TV series, festivals, gastronomy, design, tourism, games, music, arts, and sports. She stated, “Our responsibility is to enable the country and its people to monetise their talents. Therefore, the soft power policy represents a new approach with the potential to profoundly impact and improve people’s lives. However, we must also focus on educating the public about its significance.” While speculation about her future as the prime minister continues, Paetongtarn Shinawatra remains focused on gaining work experience and honing her political charisma. Regardless of the outcome, she remains an inspiration to many, demonstrating resilience in overcoming political challenges, reported Bangkok Post. by Mitch Connor Photo Credit Paetongtarn Shinawatra official Instagram - ingshin21 Source: The Thaiger 2024-03-11 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Phangnga’s lithium deposits eyed for Thailand’s EV manufacturing ambitions by Mitch Connor Photo courtesy of iStock Phangnga’s rich lithium deposits were the focal point of a House Committee on Industry visit on Sunday, as the government looks to establish the area as a global lithium source. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322058-phangnga’s-lithium-deposits-eyed-for-thailand’s-ev-manufacturing-ambitions/

Phangnga’s rich lithium deposits were the focal point of a House Committee on Industry visit on Sunday, as the government looks to establish the area as a global lithium source. The move aligns with the government’s strategy to make Thailand an electronic vehicle (EV) manufacturing hub. Akkaradech Wongpitakroj, chairman of the House committee and United Thai Nations MP for Ratchaburi, led the delegation to the southern province. The visit included a progress report update from Phangnga governor Supoj Rodruang Na Nongkhai and a trip to the Ruangkiat lithium deposit in tambon Ka Lai. Here, they met with Wichat Trairat, the chief of the Tambon Ka Lai Administrative Organisation. The Ruangkiat deposit, one of three new sites verified by the Department of Primary Industries and Mines in January, is estimated to hold at least 14.8 million tonnes of lithium (with 0.45% lithium oxide content). This site alone could potentially power at least one million EVs, assuming each vehicle uses a 50 kWh lithium battery, according to an earlier report. Akkaradech highlighted the significance of lithium manufacture in the province for the government’s EV policy, given that lithium is a key component in battery production. He also revealed that the committee is planning to engage in discussions with the Industry Ministry about legal overlaps that have hindered some producers’ mineral exploration licenses renewal this year. Despite the province’s potential as a lithium production hub, there have been concerns raised by the local community and groups about the possible impact of exploration on their communities and tourist sites. In response, Akkaradech assured that the committee plans to consult all stakeholders while addressing the potential consequences of fast-growing lithium mining operations in future meetings. He acknowledged the potential environmental implications, stressing the importance of careful consideration and planning, reported Bangkok Post. In related news, Thailand experienced a surge in electric vehicle (EV) sales, driven by government incentives and market confidence, despite Apple’s withdrawal from EV manufacturing. Growth trajectory expected to continue. by Mitch Connor Top Photo courtesy of iStock Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-11 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok’s Klong Ong Ang Canal area neglected despite tourism appeal by Mitch Connor Photo via Twitter/ @chadchart_team The controversy around the neglected state of the Klong Ong Ang Canal area, once touted as a tourist hotspot by the previous government, has prompted officials from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to come forward in defence. Images revealing the dilapidated condition of the area, including parked vehicles on a freshly paved footpath, abandoned artistic graffiti installations, and homeless individuals sleeping, have been shared widely online, sparking criticism of the BMA’s management. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322056-bangkok’s-klong-ong-ang-canal-area-neglected-despite-tourism-appeal/

The controversy around the neglected state of the Klong Ong Ang Canal area, once touted as a tourist hotspot by the previous government, has prompted officials from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to come forward in defence. Images revealing the dilapidated condition of the area, including parked vehicles on a freshly paved footpath, abandoned artistic graffiti installations, and homeless individuals sleeping, have been shared widely online, sparking criticism of the BMA’s management. The BMA’s spokesperson, Aekvarunyoo Amrapala, attempted to explain the situation on Sunday. According to him, the footpath strewn with parked vehicles is still under reconstruction by the Public Works Department of the BMA and has yet to be handed over to the BMA’s control. Deputy Governor of Bangkok, Sanon Wangsrangboon, echoed these comments via a Facebook post on Saturday, stating that the BMA is awaiting the contractor’s completion. In response to the issue of unauthorised parking in the area, Aekvarunyoo informed that the municipal police have publicised a prohibition on parking and that the contractor will explore ways to prevent parking on the pathway. Addressing the issue of homeless people captured in the images, Aekvarunyoo stated that individuals found sleeping, consuming alcohol, or fishing in the area will be cautioned. These activities, he stressed, mar the appeal of the tourist destination and pose safety concerns for local residents. In a bid to revive tourism in the area, Aekvarunyoo added that the BMA plans to host outdoor events during the upcoming Songkran festival next month, reported Bangkok Post. In related news, once a vibrant tourist hotspot in Bangkok’s Chinatown, Klong Ong Ang faced neglect despite its recognition with the 2020 Asian Townscape Award. Despite its past glory, pollution and homelessness marred its once bustling walkways. Despite accolades, lack of engagement and maintenance hindered its potential revival as a lively public space. by Mitch Connor Photo via Twitter/ @chadchart_team Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-11 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai navy’s frigate procurement plan gets house committee’s nod by Mitch Connor PHOTO: via Navy.mil The Royal Thai Navy‘s (RTN) plans for procuring a new frigate have received endorsement from the House of Representatives committee on the armed forces. This move is expected to pave the way for more job opportunities for local labour. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322055-thai-navy’s-frigate-procurement-plan-gets-house-committee’s-nod/

The Royal Thai Navy‘s (RTN) plans for procuring a new frigate have received endorsement from the House of Representatives committee on the armed forces. This move is expected to pave the way for more job opportunities for local labour. The RTN’s frigate procurement strategy recently encountered a setback when its budget request of 17 billion baht (US$480 million) for the 2024 fiscal year was turned down by a House subcommittee scrutinizing the budget. Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, an MP from the Move Forward Party (MFP) and the committee chair, communicated the committee’s approval of the navy’s proposal during a seminar on military’s role in local governance. He highlighted that this frigate will be the first to be assembled in Thailand, a move predicted to generate a minimum of a billion baht in income for local workers. “The government paid 15 billion baht (US$424) for the HTMS Bhumibol Adulyadej frigate a decade ago. The new frigate will be more expensive if it is not assembled in Thailand,” Wiroj informed. He further explained why the committee supported the frigate procurement plan but dismissed the navy’s plan to purchase a new submarine. Wiroj deemed a new frigate as a sensible purchase, while considering a new submarine as unnecessary. “If the submarine procurement plan went ahead, every single baht we spent on the project would go towards the Chinese shipyard. It won’t create new jobs locally and enhance the skills of our workers,” he elaborated. Wiroj acknowledged the common practice of armed forces branches proposing budgets for necessary procurement. However, he pointed out the past’s lack of transparency in these plans, which resulted in a loss of public faith in the process. The House committee’s role is crucial in aligning the armed forces and the public, building trust between the parties by conducting a fair and transparent investigation into such plans, Wiroj stated. In response to an enquiry about the Dhupatemiya Golf Course in Pathum Thani’s Lam Luk Ka district, Wiroj suggested that the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) could consider transferring the area for public use, reported Bangkok Post. Police Lieutenant General Kamronwit Toopkrajang, chairman of the Pathum Thani PAO, confirmed the province’s readiness to develop the area for locals. by Mitch Connor PHOTO: via Navy.mil Full story: The Thaiger 2024-03-11 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Monday 11 March 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322054-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-monday-11-march-2024/

The minister for natural resources and environment has instructed local authorities in the north to combat pollution caused by fires, troops were deployed to identify hotspots, and forests will be closed to prevent entry to conservation areas, the minister said Strict legal action would be taken against violators. Meanwhile the governor of ChaingMai offered a 10,000 baht reward for information leading to the arrest of those starting a forest fire. Thailand's transport minister says France has promised to assist Thailand to develop it’s aviation industry in preparation for the demands of the future, The statement came during Prime minister Thavasin’s trip to Paris over the weekend. They also met with Several French companies to discuss investing in Thailand. Two students in Buri Ram are being treated in hospital after they were shot by a younger student on Saturday, the second shooting in a week . The two boys were riding a motorcycle when they were chased by a 13 year and a friend who opened fire. The shooter's parents took their son to the police and told officers the two students were targeted because they had bullied his friends. None of the boys injuries were life threatening. The Swiss man who allegedly kicked a Thai woman at a beach in phuket has had his elephant sanctuary foundation closed and a court will request it be dissolved. The phuket governor alleged that the foundation may have been used for illegal activities. Around the region In Indonesia, torrential rain brought floods and landslides in the province of West Sumatra, killing at least 21 people and forcing the evacuation of more than 75,000. Hundreds of homes, schools and bridges suffered severe damage. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: sunny, 38C Bangkok: sunny, partly cloudy 35C Pattaya: Sunny, partly cloudy 33C Phuket and the south: Sunny, becoming cloudy 33C Hua Hin: Sunny with light cloud, winds light from the South 34C AQI Orange and Red High, to unhealthy 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 2024-03-11 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian and Belarusian Nationals Arrested for Illegally Working in Chalong Company By Goongnang Suksawat Chalong – A Russian and a Belarusian national were arrested for allegedly illegally working at a company in Chalong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322053-russian-and-belarusian-nationals-arrested-for-illegally-working-in-chalong-company/

Chalong – A Russian and a Belarusian national were arrested for allegedly illegally working at a company in Chalong. The Chalong Police told the Phuket Express that over the past weekend they inspected an unidentified company in Chalong. A 38 year-old Russian woman and a 26 year-old Belarusian woman were found working at the company. They were unable to present legal work permits to officers. They were taken to the Chalong Police Station to face charges of working without legal permission. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-03-11 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian Man Arrested for Allegedly Working Illegally at Cannabis Shop in Wichit By Goongnang Suksawat Wichit – A Russian man was arrested after he was allegedly found working in a cannabis shop in Wichit. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322052-russian-man-arrested-for-allegedly-working-illegally-at-cannabis-shop-in-wichit/

Wichit – A Russian man was arrested after he was allegedly found working in a cannabis shop in Wichit. The Wichit Police told the Phuket Express that earlier this weekend they arrested a suspect identified only as Mr. Denis, 34, a Russian national, at a cannabis shop in Wichit, Mueang Phuket. He has a legal work permit but it did not allow him to specifically be a salesperson. The Wichit Police did not reveal what exactly the job description is in his work permit. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-03-11 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Bang Lamung Police Shoot Suspected Motorcycle Thieves: One Teenager Injured in Pursuit By Kittisak Phalaharn Bang Lamung—At 5:00 PM, on March 9th, 2024, Bang Lamung police officers received a shooting report in Soi Rong Pho, Bang Lamung, Chonburi, as police officers chased two suspects involved in motorcycle theft in Chonburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322051-bang-lamung-police-shoot-suspected-motorcycle-thieves-one-teenager-injured-in-pursuit/

Bang Lamung—At 5:00 PM, on March 9th, 2024, Bang Lamung police officers received a shooting report in Soi Rong Pho, Bang Lamung, Chonburi, as police officers chased two suspects involved in motorcycle theft in Chonburi. Police forensic officers and relevant agencies were dispatched to the incident scene and found an improvised blank gun with a bullet shell nearby. The police then collected them as evidence and inspected the area thoroughly. The emergency service performed first aid to a suspect, whose name was withheld by the police as he was only 17-years-old, and was in serious condition from being shot in the left side of his back. The suspect was transferred to a local hospital for immediate medical treatment, said the police. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-11 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Highway Police Bust Suspected Illegal Immigration Smuggling Ring: 4 Thai Suspects and 19 Myanmar Nationals Detained By Kittisak Phalaharn Nakhon Si Thammarat—On March 9th, 2024, Thai highway police intercepted two vehicles suspected of illegal immigration of workers being smuggled on Highway 41 Road, Chulabhorn, Nakhon Si Thammarat. As a result, four Thai suspects and 19 Myanmar nationals were detained. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322049-thai-highway-police-bust-suspected-illegal-immigration-smuggling-ring/

Nakhon Si Thammarat—On March 9th, 2024, Thai highway police intercepted two vehicles suspected of illegal immigration of workers being smuggled on Highway 41 Road, Chulabhorn, Nakhon Si Thammarat. As a result, four Thai suspects and 19 Myanmar nationals were detained. According to the highway police, there was a report from an anonymous source of illegal immigration workers smuggling people in the area. The highway police then investigated the case and detected two pickup trucks. The two vehicles were asked for an inspection. The highway police found 19 Myanmar nationals including 12 male and 7 female undocumented immigrants. Upon further investigation, the four Thai suspects were publicly identified only as Mr. Songphon, 44, Mrs. Apasara, 41, Mr. Prasit, 58, and Mr. Josit, 33. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-11 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Fatal Collision: Chinese Driver Crashes into Pattaya Motorbike Rider, Claiming One Life By Kittisak Phalaharn Bang Lamung—At 10:30 AM, on March 11th, 2024, Bang Lamung highway police received a fatal accident report of a Chinese driver colliding with a motorbike on Pattaya entrance road No. 7 in Bang Lamung, Chonburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1322048-fatal-collision-chinese-driver-crashes-into-pattaya-motorbike-rider-claiming-one-life/

Bang Lamung—At 10:30 AM, on March 11th, 2024, Bang Lamung highway police received a fatal accident report of a Chinese driver colliding with a motorbike on Pattaya entrance road No. 7 in Bang Lamung, Chonburi. Pattaya emergency services and relevant agencies were dispatched to the accident scene to aid the wounded and facilitate traffic congestion of more than half a kilometer. At the accident scene, a light blue motorbike was in a severe condition as it’s driver had collided with a black Mercedes Benz. Nearby, the body of Ms. Sirikarn Sekklang, 56, was found deceased. The emergency services secured the area and covered the body with white sheets. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-03-11 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe