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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Saturday 15 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Thailand May Ease Overseas Income Tax Rules Amid Global Changes Photo courtesy of Expatica In a move that could significantly impact expatriates and Thai nationals alike, Thailand's government is contemplating adjustments to the taxation of overseas income. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351759-thailand-may-ease-overseas-income-tax-rules-amid-global-changes/ -
THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Friday 14 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
to continue: Thailand Live Saturday 15 February 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1351754-thailand-live-saturday-15-february-2025/ -
Photo courtesy of Expatica In a move that could significantly impact expatriates and Thai nationals alike, Thailand's government is contemplating adjustments to the taxation of overseas income. Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira has indicated that the global economic landscape necessitates a re-evaluation of current tax regulations, though specific details were not provided. Presently, the Thai Revenue Department (TRD) stipulates that, effective January 1, 2024, any assessable income transferred into Thailand from abroad by either Thai citizens or foreigners residing in Thailand for at least 180 days within a calendar year will be subject to personal income tax. This regulation applies regardless of whether the funds were sent in the same year they were earned or in a subsequent year, write Barry Kenyon for Pattaya Mail. This adjustment differs from the previous interpretation by the TRD, which only imposed tax liability on overseas income that was transferred within the same year it was earned. The new guidelines have sparked significant debate on social media platforms, particularly among expatriates, who are seeking clarity on how these changes will affect them, especially within the retiree segment of the expat community. While Minister Pichai's recent comments did not specifically address expatriates, he underscored a key objective: to incentivise Thai nationals to remit more of their overseas funds back into Thailand. However, this leaves questions regarding the broader implications for foreign residents. Thai tax consultants advise caution in interpreting these developments, stressing that conclusions about the government's intentions and their eventual impact remain premature. With the financial landscape continuing to evolve, stakeholders are keenly awaiting further official comments expected within the coming weeks. -- 2025-02-15
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Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand's struggle with English proficiency has been highlighted in a global ranking, placing the nation 106th out of 116 countries, according to the EF English Proficiency Index released recently. This result underscores a significant challenge, positioning Thailand in the "very low proficiency" category. The survey, conducted by EF Education First, a leading name in English language education, assesses proficiency levels worldwide. Thailand's score of 415 points highlights its positioning as 21st in Asia and 7th among ASEAN countries, lagging behind neighbours like Myanmar, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and the Philippines. Globally, the top rankings were claimed by the Netherlands (636 points), with Norway (610 points) and Singapore (609 points) closely following. This stark contrast emphasizes the formidable language barriers Thailand faces in comparison to these nations. This ranking has prompted reflection within Thailand’s educational sphere. The Ministry of Education has previously explored efforts to modernise its basic educational curriculum, which has remained unchanged since 2008. The Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC) spearheaded this initiative last year, proposing a revision of the curriculum to include more contemporary, technology-centred subjects. OBEC Secretary-General Thanu Wongjinda mentioned that an appointed revision panel would soon commence work to re-evaluate subjects and propose enhancements, particularly focusing on reducing school hours. Thai students currently face some of the longest school hours globally, a factor that might contribute to insufficient focus on effective language learning. This issue raises the critical question: Will Thailand implement effective strategies to enhance its global communication skills, or remain behind in the linguistic race? Adopting measures that focus on practical English use beyond traditional classroom learning could be pivotal in overcoming this barrier. As nations worldwide make strides in English proficiency, Thailand stands at a crossroads—either to embrace and enhance its educational strategies or continue facing challenges in global arenas. Now, more than ever, is the time for transformational changes in the educational landscape to equip future generations with the skills they need to thrive internationally, reported The Thaiger -- 2025-02-14
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Thailand Ranked 106th in English Proficiency Out of 116 Countries Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand's struggle with English proficiency has been highlighted in a global ranking, placing the nation 106th out of 116 countries, according to the EF English Proficiency Index released recently. This result underscores a significant challenge, positioning Thailand in the "very low proficiency" category. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351753-thailand-ranked-106th-in-english-proficiency-out-of-116-countries/
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Friday 14 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Bangkok Passenger Arrested with B36M Worth of 'Space Oil' at Hong Kong Airport Picture courtesy of Travel Bug Aakash In a significant bust highlighting the rise of synthetic drugs, a 22-year-old traveller from Bangkok was detained in Hong Kong for allegedly smuggling a substance known as "space oil," carrying a street value of approximately HK$8.4 million, or 36 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351747-bangkok-passenger-arrested-with-b36m-worth-of-space-oil-at-hong-kong-airport/ -
Picture courtesy of Travel Bug Aakash In a significant bust highlighting the rise of synthetic drugs, a 22-year-old traveller from Bangkok was detained in Hong Kong for allegedly smuggling a substance known as "space oil," carrying a street value of approximately HK$8.4 million, or 36 million baht. The arrest unfolded just as Hong Kong authorities prepare to categorise etomidate—a chemical component of space oil—as a dangerous drug, effective from Friday. The incident occurred during routine customs checks after the passenger arrived from Bangkok. Officials discovered eight kilograms of powdered etomidate clandestinely packed within fruit-flavoured drink packets in the traveller's checked luggage. Additionally, customs officers detected two suspected alternative smoking products inside his carry-on backpack. Etomidate, though currently classified as a Part 1 poison that is available solely by medical prescription, has become notorious for its illicit applications in manufacturing space oil. This anaesthetic substance, when processed, can produce more than 24,000 space oil cartridges, explaining its high market value. Authorities swiftly arrested the suspect following the discovery. The Customs and Excise Department of Hong Kong announced steadfast enforcement using a risk-based assessment strategy, targeting passengers arriving from regions with heightened drug trafficking risks. The pending reclassification of etomidate as a dangerous drug on Friday marks a stern escalation in the legal implications surrounding space oil. Once labelled as such, possession or consumption of space oil will carry severe penalties, including up to seven years of imprisonment and fines reaching HK$1 million. Moreover, trafficking in the substance could lead to life imprisonment and fines up to HK$5 million upon conviction. This arrest underscores the growing international attention and cooperation required to address synthetic drug manufacturing and smuggling. It serves as a cautionary tale of how rapidly these substances can enter the drug trade under legal radar and highlights the ongoing battle law enforcement faces in keeping up with ever-evolving drug trends, reportedBangkok Post. -- 2025-02-14
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Friday 14 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Surge in Travel Demand Sparks 15% Increase in Thai Hotel Rates Picture courtesy: FReepik In response to booming international travel demand, hotel room rates in Thailand have surged by an average of 15% compared to last year, according to SiteMinder, a leading e-commerce platform for hotel bookings. This rise marks Thailand as the sole country experiencing double-digit growth in this sector. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351742-surge-in-travel-demand-sparks-15-increase-in-thai-hotel-rates/ -
Picture courtesy: FReepik In response to booming international travel demand, hotel room rates in Thailand have surged by an average of 15% compared to last year, according to SiteMinder, a leading e-commerce platform for hotel bookings. This rise marks Thailand as the sole country experiencing double-digit growth in this sector. The SiteMinder Hotel Booking Trends report, which examined over 125 million reservations, showed that the country's average daily rate (ADR) increased to 5,377 baht from 4,648 baht in 2023. December marked the peak, with room rates soaring to 6,460 baht, an 11% jump from the previous year. The key driver for this financial leap is Thailand's significant uptake in international arrivals. The country leads Asia in terms of foreign tourist influx, with international visitors making up 77% of hotel check-ins, starkly exceeding the global visitor average of 48%. On this front, only Austria welcomed a higher percentage of international guests. Additional findings from the report indicated that travellers to Thailand are planning their vacations further in advance than before, with an average booking lead time of 27 days. This advance planning is the longest recorded in Asia and approaches the 29-day booking span observed in 2019. Thailand's attraction as a premier leisure destination was further solidified, as the region ranked fifth globally for extended stay bookings. Over 15% of reservations were for stays of three nights or more, a figure above the global average of 11%, trailing only behind Portugal, Colombia, Mexico, and Spain. The holiday season in December remains the busiest, yet the overall tourist influx has displayed a more balanced distribution, signaling steady visitor volume during the cooler months of 2024 compared to previous cycles. Thailand's tourism industry seems to be thriving, with Supakrit Phansomboon, SiteMinder's Country Manager for Thailand, pointing to the increase in average room rates and international guest numbers as positive indicators. These shifts highlight a prosperous year for local hoteliers, emphasizing the importance of strategic adaptability to maximize revenue through longer stays and broadened booking windows. The evolving landscape saw hotel websites reclaim a top-three revenue slot, indicating the increasing value of direct bookings which generated an average of US$519 (around 17,500 baht) per booking, outpacing the online travel agent average of US$320. Direct bookings typically involve higher-value room selections, extended stays, and additional amenities, suggesting opportunities for hotels to leverage exclusive deals. Supakrit underscored the vital role of balancing both direct and third-party booking channels, ensuring a seamless experience akin to that offered by online travel agents, complete with secure payment options. Among the leading sources of hotel bookings were platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, direct hotel websites, Expedia Group, and Trip.com, with the latter underscoring China as a crucial market, spurred by eased visa regulations for Chinese tourists. This substantial growth, particularly in international check-ins, indicates bright prospects for Thailand’s hospitality sector, encouraging stakeholders to harness market intelligence for sustained success amidst a flourishing tourism climate, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-14
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Friday 14 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Constitutional Amendment Effort Stalls in Thai Parliament Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Efforts to amend Thailand's Constitution faced a setback as a crucial joint sitting of the Senate and House collapsed due to a lack of quorum yesterday (Thursday). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351741-constitutional-amendment-effort-stalls-in-thai-parliament/ -
Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Efforts to amend Thailand's Constitution faced a setback as a crucial joint sitting of the Senate and House collapsed due to a lack of quorum yesterday (Thursday). The session, initiated by the ruling Pheu Thai and opposition People's parties, aimed to deliberate on two constitutional amendment draft bills. Scheduled to start at 9:30 AM, the meeting quickly revealed its limitations when only 204 MPs and senators were present—falling short of the necessary quorum. President of Parliament, Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, had to adjourn the meeting after confirming the inadequate turnout. The adjournment was announced to resume the following day at 9:30 AM, yet uncertainty loomed over the possibility of continued proceedings. Before the quorum was assessed, legislators from both houses engaged in a lively debate concerning an urgent motion. This motion, brought by Senator Premsak Piayura and supported by a coalition of around 40 MPs and senators, called for a Constitutional Court ruling on whether a referendum is required before enacting any charter amendments. The motion saw divisions within the assembly, with 275 legislators opposing it and 247 supporting further consideration. Within the opposition People’s party, most MPs voted against the motion, aligning mostly with the Pheu Thai stance, barring 12 dissenting members. Notably, 20 United Thai Nation MPs sided with Pheu Thai MPs, while others chose to abstain. Support for the motion saw mixed reactions across various party lines, with notable numbers from the Democrats and Prachachart parties backing the Pheu Thai position. Bhumjaithai MPs mostly vacated the parliament chamber, leaving Ekkarat Changlao as the lone supporter of the motion. Meanwhile, 136 senators opposed the motion led by Premsak, further indicating the fractured nature of the debate. The actual debate on the proposed charter amendment bills had not even commenced before the adjournment. In a post-session statement, Pheu Thai party-list MP Sutin Klungsang expressed a strategic awareness of the slim odds that the amendments would pass if discussion had proceeded. The party has strategised to first seek a Constitutional Court ruling, endeavouring to keep the amendment effort viable. The situation remains fluid, with uncertainty about whether parliamentary proceedings regarding this crucial constitutional amendment will resume as planned. The lack of quorum highlights the political complexity and varying positions within the Thai legislative landscape at this pivotal juncture, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-02-14
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Friday 14 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Thai MP Faces Arrest Request for Rape Allegation Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The House of Representatives has received a formal arrest request concerning Chaiyamparwaan Manpianjit, a member of the Thai Progressive Party. He is under accusation for allegedly raping a Taiwanese woman in Chiang Mai last month. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351739-thai-mp-faces-arrest-request-for-rape-allegation/ -
Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The House of Representatives has received a formal arrest request concerning Chaiyamparwaan Manpianjit, a member of the Thai Progressive Party. He is under accusation for allegedly raping a Taiwanese woman in Chiang Mai last month. The request follows an arrest warrant issued by a Chiang Mai court, and it highlights the complex intersection of political position and legal proceedings in Thailand. Notably, due to Mr Chaiyamparwaan's status as a Member of Parliament (MP), the legal process requires a formal request to be submitted to parliament before any potential legal actions, such as an arrest, can be facilitated. The objective is to allow the House to deliberate and permit his prosecution without infringing upon parliamentary privilege. The letter, delivered by the national police chief, is set to be reviewed by parliament next Thursday, with Pol Sub Lt Arpath Sukhanunth, secretary-general of the House of Representatives, confirming the development. However, whether the matter will indeed make it onto the parliamentary agenda depends on the specifics of Thursday’s meeting. An interesting twist could be in play if Mr Chaiyamparwaan opts to turn himself in before the scheduled discussion. In such a scenario, the parliament may remove the issue from their agenda, as elaborated by Pol Sub Lt Arpath. Mr Chaiyamparwaan's team has already intimated that he will not attend next Monday's meeting because of prior commitments, with promises of a public statement to address the issue when he is prepared. Meanwhile, he is believed to be currently in Bangkok, with indications that he plans to surrender to authorities before the parliamentary meeting. His legal representatives remain steadfast in denying the allegations, stating that the sexual encounter was consensual. This isn't the first time Mr Chaiyamparwaan has faced allegations of misconduct. In 2023, he was expelled from the Move Forward Party after an internal investigation linked him to sexual harassment claims involving three assistants. It remains to be seen whether parliament will conduct an ethical investigation into Mr Chaiyamparwaan’s alleged actions. Pol Sub Lt Arpath mentioned the recent formation of an ethics committee, leaving open the question of whether this body might take up the case or await a formal complaint. The unfolding events will test the balance of legal process and parliamentary protocol as they pertain to serious criminal allegations against sitting MPs in Thailand, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-14
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Friday 14 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Pattaya Cheers Potential Easing of Alcohol Sales Restrictions File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a progressive step towards boosting tourism and business, the Thai government is considering easing alcohol sales restrictions in Pattaya, much to the delight of tourists and local nightlife businesses. This potential policy shift aligns with the “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sports Year” campaign, which aims to rejuvenate the tourism sector by year's end. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351738-pattaya-cheers-potential-easing-of-alcohol-sales-restrictions/ -
Pattaya Cheers Potential Easing of Alcohol Sales Restrictions
webfact posted a topic in Pattaya News
File photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a progressive step towards boosting tourism and business, the Thai government is considering easing alcohol sales restrictions in Pattaya, much to the delight of tourists and local nightlife businesses. This potential policy shift aligns with the “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism & Sports Year” campaign, which aims to rejuvenate the tourism sector by year's end. The current restrictions, which prohibit the sale of alcohol on Buddhist holidays and between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM, have been viewed as barriers to economic growth. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's review of these laws signals an intention to create a more tourist-friendly environment, crucial for locations like Pattaya, where entertainment is a major draw. Lisa Hamilton, who leads the Pattaya Nightlife Business Association, welcomed the government's move to review these regulations. As she notes, easing the alcohol sales restrictions could significantly impact tourism positively. Pattaya, renowned for its vibrant nightlife, relies heavily on a steady influx of tourists, many of whom seek to immerse themselves fully in the local culture and entertainment. The existing sales bans have often resulted in uncertainty for nightlife operators and confusion for tourists. “Approaching Buddhist holidays, we constantly reminded each other about the alcohol ban. This step hindered our daily operations and cut into our potential earnings," Hamilton explained. "If these restrictions are relaxed, our business activities can flourish without unnecessary interruptions, enabling us to better serve our patrons." Tourists echo this sentiment, frequently finding the current prohibitions perplexing and disruptive. The restrictions often bewilder international visitors, who are unfamiliar with local customs, questioning why such prohibitions are imposed. There is optimism within the business community and among tourists that the revised regulations will be implemented promptly. By smoothing over these regulatory hiccups, Pattaya could enhance its appeal as a lively and inclusive tourist destination, fostering economic growth and local prosperity in a more sustainable and efficient manner. For Pattaya, often seen as a barometer for Thailand's wider tourism health, such policy adaptations not only promise immediate economic benefits but also improve the visitor experience, further cementing its status as a must-visit location on the global tourist map. The community eagerly awaits the official adjustments, hopeful that this forward-thinking approach will revitalize both nightlife businesses and the broader tourism economy, reported Pattaya Mail. -- 2025-02-14 -
THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Friday 14 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Can Foreign Tourists in Pattaya Expect Fair Legal Treatment? File photo for reference only ANALYSIS Pattaya, a bustling tourist hub on Thailand's eastern Gulf coast, is at the heart of a pertinent discussion around justice and equality under the law for foreign visitors. This topic resonates strongly amid the numerous experiences that shape perceptions of tourists regarding their interactions with local law enforcement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351735-can-foreign-tourists-in-pattaya-expect-fair-legal-treatment/ -
File photo for reference only ANALYSIS Pattaya, a bustling tourist hub on Thailand's eastern Gulf coast, is at the heart of a pertinent discussion around justice and equality under the law for foreign visitors. This topic resonates strongly amid the numerous experiences that shape perceptions of tourists regarding their interactions with local law enforcement. In theory, the principles of justice dictate that everyone, irrespective of nationality, should be treated equally under the legal framework. However, some foreign tourists in Pattaya have reported instances where they feel differently—particularly in the context of minor disputes or traffic incidents. There are claims that local police might exhibit a degree of leniency towards Thai nationals, while imposing steeper fines on foreigners. This perception may stem not only from financial assumptions about tourists but also from potential language barriers and cultural misunderstandings. Despite these concerns, there are numerous instances highlighting the professionalism and fairness demonstrated by the Thai police towards tourists. Many officers in Pattaya are adept at handling the complex scenarios brought about by the influx of international visitors. In crowded tourist spots, the presence of bilingual officers often plays a crucial role in bridging communication gaps, enabling clearer dialogues and more amicable resolutions to disputes. The issue at its core is complex. The experiences of equality under the law can vary significantly depending on specific circumstances, the individuals involved, and how well tourists understand or respect the local norms and regulations. Tourists who take the time to acquaint themselves with Thai laws and customs often report positive interactions with the police, noting their readiness to address concerns respectfully. Ultimately, fairness in legal treatment in Pattaya—and Thailand more broadly—remains a dynamic area open to enhancement. It’s crucial for continuous dialogues between the international community and local law enforcement to ensure a balanced and fair approach, reinforcing Pattaya's reputation as a welcoming and reliable destination for all. As this vibrant city continues to attract millions of visitors annually, fostering transparent interactions, understanding, and equitable treatment under the law will remain vital. Law enforcement agencies are, therefore, encouraged to maintain and enhance training and communication to bolster mutual trust and understanding between local authorities and the diverse array of international visitors, reported Pattaya Mail. -- 2025-02-14
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Friday 14 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Interpol Red Notice: Turkish Fugitive Arrested in Phuket In a decisive move showcasing international cooperation, a Turkish fugitive, wanted on an Interpol red notice, was apprehended in Phuket earlier this week. The suspect, known only as Mr. Taskin, aged 32, found himself in Thai custody following an operation conducted by local authorities responding to international alerts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351728-interpol-red-notice-turkish-fugitive-arrested-in-phuket/ -
Picture courtesy: The Phuket Express In a decisive move showcasing international cooperation, a Turkish fugitive, wanted on an Interpol red notice, was apprehended in Phuket earlier this week. The suspect, known only as Mr. Taskin, aged 32, found himself in Thai custody following an operation conducted by local authorities responding to international alerts. The Phuket Immigration received a request from Turkish officials to revoke Mr. Taskin's permit to stay in Thailand. His plight intensified as his passport was also cancelled, essentially trapping him in legal limbo. Turkish authorities had earlier classified Mr. Taskin as a dangerous individual, issuing a red notice after an arrest warrant was declared in October of the previous year. The crux of the Turkish legal pursuit stems from allegations that Mr. Taskin was found carrying a firearm and ammunition in public places without legal permit. Though precise details of where Mr. Taskin was captured remain undisclosed, Phuket Immigration confirmed his arrest, marking a significant victory in transnational law enforcement efforts. The clandestine operation, conducted with the assistance of local police, underscores the ongoing collaboration between Thailand and other countries in addressing international crime. With the legal framework set in motion for his deportation, Mr. Taskin awaits his return to Turkey, where he will likely face justice under Turkish law. There has been no comment from the fugitive himself, as he remains tight-lipped amidst these proceedings, reported The Phuket Express.. -- 2025-02-14
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Friday 14 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Nigerian Arrested in Thalang for Selling Cocaine to Tourists Picture courtesy: The Phuket Express Phuket Immigration authorities apprehended a Nigerian national on Thursday, February 13th, in Thalang. The suspect, known only as Mr. Johnpaul, aged 37, was detained at a rented property in Thep Krasattri with a possession of 7.2 grams of cocaine. This arrest is part of ongoing efforts to curb drug trafficking in popular tourist areas. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351724-nigerian-arrested-in-thalang-for-selling-cocaine-to-tourists/ -
Picture courtesy: The Phuket Express Phuket Immigration authorities apprehended a Nigerian national on Thursday, February 13th, in Thalang. The suspect, known only as Mr. Johnpaul, aged 37, was detained at a rented property in Thep Krasattri with a possession of 7.2 grams of cocaine. This arrest is part of ongoing efforts to curb drug trafficking in popular tourist areas. Mr. Johnpaul confessed to purchasing the cocaine from an unidentified foreign individual in Bang Tao, Cherng Talay. He reportedly acquired the drugs at a cost of around 2,000 Thai Baht per bag, with a total transaction covering 12 bags. He admitted to already having sold some of the narcotics to foreign tourists for approximately 3,000 Thai Baht per bag, hinting at a network supplying these illegal substances to the island's visitor population. The arrest comes amid heightened scrutiny and enhanced law enforcement actions in Phuket, aimed at dismantling drug networks that have become increasingly brazen. Recognised for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, Phuket attracts millions of tourists annually, making it a lucrative market for illegal drug operations. As a result, authorities are intensifying surveillance and investigations to maintain the island's reputation as a safe tourist destination. After the arrest, Mr. Johnpaul was taken to the Thalang Police Station, where he is facing charges related to the illegal possession of category 2 drugs with an intent to sell. Law enforcement officials are scrutinising his claims of being unable to identify his supplier, with efforts underway to trace and eliminate higher levels of this drug network, reported The Phuket Express. Authorities assert that significant steps are being taken to identify and capture larger criminal syndicates responsible for drug trafficking in the region. The police are urging both locals and tourists to report any suspicious activity, promising anonymity and protection to whistle-blowers. The clampdown in Thalang serves as a stark reminder of the relentless pursuit of law enforcement officials to maintain a zero-tolerance policy on drugs. It reflects a broader strategy to protect Phuket's allure, ensuring it remains a haven for peaceful holidays rather than a hotspot for illicit activities. -- 2025-02-14
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THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Friday 14 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Scam Hubs: Thai Police Say 99% of Workers Joined Voluntarily Picture courtesy: Thai Newsroom In a startling revelation, Thai authorities have disclosed that a mere 1% of workers returning from scam centres in Myanmar are genuine victims, with the vast majority reportedly engaging with these criminal operations willingly. This announcement follows rigorous investigations into the activities of numerous scam centres situated along the Thai-Myanmar border. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351712-scam-hubs-thai-police-say-99-of-workers-voluntarily-joined/ -
Scam Hubs: Thai Police Say 99% of Workers Joined Voluntarily
webfact posted a topic in Thailand News
Picture courtesy: Thai Newsroom In a startling revelation, Thai authorities have disclosed that a mere 1% of workers returning from scam centres in Myanmar are genuine victims, with the vast majority reportedly engaging with these criminal operations willingly. This announcement follows rigorous investigations into the activities of numerous scam centres situated along the Thai-Myanmar border. Pol. Gen. Thatchai Pitaneelabut, who heads the Centre for the Protection of Children, Women and Families, commented on the process of welcoming back individuals fleeing from these illegal employments. He revealed that discussions with various international ambassadors are imminent, aimed at ensuring a smooth return of call-centre workers crossing into Thailand. Notably, the Thai government has clarified that not all these returnees will be categorised as victims, given the voluntary nature of their initial participation. Just yesterday, reports indicated that 7,000 individuals trapped within these scam rings were in the process of being released and escorted back to Thailand. This follows strategic actions by Thai authorities, including cutting off electricity, Internet, and fuel supplies to select townships in Myanmar, effectively crippling scam operations and encouraging a mass return. The Thai-Myanmar crossing through Mae Sot has seen an uptick in movement, with Pol. Gen. Thatchai noting that immigration records trace a wide array of nationalities using this checkpoint. Remarkably, it appears that nearly all of these workers made conscious decisions to join scam rings, with only an estimated 1%—like the case of Chinese actor Xingxing, who endured brief captivity—truly misled into these activities. Additionally, four Japanese nationals, suspected of involvement in human trafficking, have been apprehended as they attempted to cross back into Thailand, further highlighting the complexity of dismantling these transnational crime networks. Picture courtesy: Thai Newsroom The criminal syndicates, often run by Chinese nationals, typically employ Thai citizens to establish mule accounts. The illicit operations extend across Cambodia and Laos, thus complicating the network's dismantlement. As Thai authorities continue to process and differentiate victims from willing participants, the Border Command Centre is tasked with their care in the interim. Anticipated meetings next week between police and embassy representatives will address the logistics of returning foreign nationals to their respective countries. This ongoing saga took another twist when the Philippine embassy flagged an individual claiming victim status as a potential human trafficking suspect, underscoring the challenges in distilling truth from deceit in these complex cross-border operations, reported Thai Newsroom -- 2025-02-14 -
THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Friday 14 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
Thailand's Tourist Boom: 4.8 Million Visitors So Far Photo courtesy of The ASEAN Post Thailand's tourism sector is thriving, with 4.8 million international visitors entering the country from January to February 9th this year, according to Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong. This bustling travel scene has significantly boosted the economy, contributing an impressive 234.9 billion baht in revenue during this period. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351672-thailands-tourist-boom-48-million-visitors-so-far/ -
THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Friday 14 February 2025
webfact replied to webfact's topic in Thailand Live
More Thais Staying Single, Impact on Weddings and Florists Photo courtesy of Thailand Foundation An increasing number of Thais are choosing to remain single, driven by changing social norms, financial pressures, and rising expectations for partners. This shift is affecting businesses tied to romance, such as wedding planners and flower shops. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351688-more-thais-staying-single-impact-on-weddings-and-florists/