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Photo courtesy of Koh Planner Thai airline flight makes emergency landing in Phuket By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Passengers on a Thai airline flight endured terrifying, life-threatening moments yesterday when their aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing at Phuket International Airport due to engine failure. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350433-thai-airline-flight-makes-emergency-landing-in-phuket/

Thaksin Granted Court Permission to Visit Malaysia File photo courtesy Spring News In a notable court decision today, January 31, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra received approval to travel to Malaysia this coming weekend, despite being embroiled in a lese majeste case. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350441-thaksin-granted-court-permission-to-visit-malaysia/

File photo for reference only. Courtesy Spring News In a notable court decision today, January 31, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra received approval to travel to Malaysia this coming weekend, despite being embroiled in a lese majeste case. The Criminal Court's ruling permits Thaksin, a significant figure in Thai politics and father to current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, to temporarily leave the country. The purpose of Thaksin's visit is to meet with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Sunday and Monday. Anwar, who currently holds the chairmanship of ASEAN, has named Thaksin as a personal adviser, underscoring the significance of their discussions during the visit. To secure his departure, Thaksin deposited a collateral of 5 million baht with the court, pledging his return to Thailand immediately following his meeting in Malaysia. This development marks a departure from last year's proceedings, where the court rejected Thaksin's request to travel to Dubai for purported medical treatment. Having resided in self-imposed exile in the Middle Eastern city until his 2023 return to Thailand, Thaksin's travel requests have received varied responses from the judiciary. Thaksin's legal troubles stem from a 2015 interview in Seoul, during which he allegedly made statements with lese majeste content regarding the Thai monarchy's supposed involvement in the 2006 coup that led to his ousting as prime minister. The case remains a contentious issue within Thai legal and political circles. The court's decision to permit Thaksin's travel highlights ongoing complexities in the intersection of Thai politics and judiciary proceedings, reported Thai Newsroom. Observers will be closely monitoring his movements and any developments following the Malaysia visit. This decision adds a new chapter to the ongoing narrative of Thaksin's life post-premiership, amidst Thailand's ever-shifting political landscape. -- 2025-01-31

5 Frenchmen arrested for running police checkpoint in Phuket by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ยุทธพงษ์ นาลักษณ์ Police arrested five Frenchmen for running a police checkpoint while riding their motorcycles on the Kamala-Patong Road in Phuket at 1.15am on Sunday, January 26. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350394-5-frenchmen-arrested-for-running-police-checkpoint-in-phuket/

Photo via Facebook/ ยุทธพงษ์ นาลักษณ์ by Petch Petpailin Police arrested five Frenchmen for running a police checkpoint while riding their motorcycles on the Kamala-Patong Road in Phuket at 1.15am on Sunday, January 26. A Thai motorist, Yuttaphon Naluck, shared dashcam footage of the incident on his Facebook account on January 27, showing the foreign motorcyclists ignoring the checkpoint and speeding away in front of Thai police. He captioned the video… “Police can arrest no one. #ThisIsPatong #ThisIsPhuket” In the footage, other vehicles were seen slowing down as they approached the checkpoint but the foreigners ignored it. They were riding in the left lane when a police officer attempted to stop them for inspection. However, they ignored the officer’s signals and fled in different ways. At the time, the police did not pursue them, allowing them to leave. None of the foreign riders or their passengers were wearing helmets. The incident, which occurred at 1.15am on Sunday, was later confirmed to have involved officers from Kamala Police Station. The checkpoint was set up to apprehend motorists carrying weapons without valid justification or those in possession of illegal drugs. The video sparked criticism of both the foreign motorcyclists and the Thai police. Many netizens alleged that the police granted too many privileges to foreigners, allowing them to ignore Thai laws and act with impunity. Photo via Facebook/ ยุทธพงษ์ นาลักษณ์ Following the backlash, officers from Kamala Police Station launched an investigation to identify the foreign motorcyclists and vowed to bring them to justice to set an example for other foreigners. Police eventually identified all the riders as French nationals and arrested them on Wednesday, January 29. Their identities were not disclosed to the public. Photo via Facebook/ ยุทธพงษ์ นาลักษณ์ According to Phuket Hotnews, two of the foreign men were charged with violating Section 43(8) of the Land Transport Act, which prohibits driving without regard for the safety of others. The penalty includes imprisonment of up to three months, a fine ranging from 2,000 to 10,000 baht, or both. In this case, the two men received a sentence of two months in jail and a fine of 6,000 baht. However, their imprisonment was suspended for one year. Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Hotnews The other three foreign men were charged under Section 368 of the Criminal Law for failing to comply with officials’ orders. The penalty carries a maximum imprisonment of 10 days, a fine of up to 5,000 baht, or both. These three Frenchmen were fined 1,500 baht each but did not receive prison sentences. The motorcycles were found to belong to a rental shop in the province, with one valued at over 400,000 baht. Officers seized the vehicles as evidence. There has been no report on whether the rental shop owner will be able to reclaim the motorcycles once the case is concluded. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

Cool front chills North Thailand while the south gets stormy by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Hold onto your hats, Thailand, as a chill is set to sweep across the north of the country while the south braces for some electrifying thunderstorms. Weather boffins at the Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) forecast a frosty turn with mornings cloaked in fog. But that’s not all, expect a dust-up as particles hang heavy in the air. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350392-cool-front-chills-north-thailand-while-the-south-gets-stormy/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Bob Scott Hold onto your hats, Thailand, as a chill is set to sweep across the north of the country while the south braces for some electrifying thunderstorms. Weather boffins at the Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) forecast a frosty turn with mornings cloaked in fog. But that’s not all, expect a dust-up as particles hang heavy in the air. As of today, January 31, a moderate cold air mass will blanket upper Thailand, with gusts from the west adding to the chill factor. It’s cool to cold, particularly when that morning haze rolls in, so locals are urged to bundle up and watch out for bushfire risks in these parched conditions. Things are calming down in southern waters as the northeastern monsoon over the Gulf of Thailand and the southern stretch loses its bite. Seas are smoothing out, with the lower Gulf seeing waves tickling 1 to 2 metres high. But beware – stormy patches could whip them up further, so mariners should keep their wits about them. Meanwhile, dust and haze levels in upper Thailand are on the rise, thanks to those mellowing winds. North: Brace for a crisp, chilly start with temperatures ranging from 14 to 17 degrees Celsius, and it’s even brisker on the mountain tops, dipping to 5-11 degrees Celsius. Southeastern breezes will waft in at 5-15 km/h. Northeast: Expect the same cold conditions, with a smidge of morning fog. Temperatures will run between 12-16 degrees Celsius, and 8-13 degrees Celsius in hilly areas, escorted by eastward winds at 10-15 km/h. Easterly winds Central Thailand: Cool and misty mornings are on the menu, with temperatures sliding between 16-18 degrees Celsius before warming up to 33-35 degrees Celsius. Easterly winds will flow at 10-15 km/h. East: Wake up to cool climes wrapped in fog, with lows of 17-22 degrees Celsius scaling to 32-34 degrees Celsius. Easterly gusts will pelt in at 15-30 km/h, with the sea playing it cool under 1 metre, but breaching 1 metre further out. South (East Side): A nippy start with a dash of drizzly weather in the upper zones. Expect 18-23 degrees Celsius, climbing to 31-34 degrees Celsius. Northeastern winds from Nakhon Si Thammarat upwards blow in at 15-30 km/h, with waves rising just over a metre. Downward from Songkhla, easterly winds escalate to 15-35 km/h, with the sea restless at 1-2 metres, and stormy areas surging over 2 metres. South (west side): Morning chills in the upper reaches with temperatures between 21-25 degrees Celsius, peaking at 32-35 degrees Celsius. Eastern winds will zip through at 15-30 km/h, and the sea will maintain its calm under a metre, but watch out – it leaps to 1-2 metres offshore and over 2 metres during storms. Bangkok and surrounding areas: Get ready for a cool spell with a whisper of morning fog. Temperatures hover between 19-20 degrees Celsius before hitting highs of 32-34 degrees Celsius. Easterly winds will be a gentle 10-15 km/h. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

A photo of the five Thai hostages who were released, according to the Thai government and the Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv, Israel. Picture courtesy: Naewna

Thailand Enforces Burning Ban to Combat PM2.5 Pollution File photo Thailand has instituted a nationwide burning ban to address escalating PM2.5 pollution levels, as stagnant air circulation is expected to persist until early February, potentially exacerbating the situation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350384-thailand-enforces-burning-ban-to-combat-pm25-pollution/

File photo Thailand has instituted a nationwide burning ban to address escalating PM2.5 pollution levels, as stagnant air circulation is expected to persist until early February, potentially exacerbating the situation. The government, keen on mitigating the pollution at its source, announced strict enforcement of the ban across the country. Government spokesman, Jirayu Houngsub, relayed that the National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Committee, which he advises, has taken decisive steps in response to this environmental challenge by heightening measures in regions with the highest pollution concentrations. Municipal bodies are tasked with rigorous adherence to the ban, ensuring compliance and regularly updating the committee on enforcement progress. Additionally, plans are underway for Thailand's Public Health Ministry to dispatch emergency medical teams to assist vulnerable groups, such as infants, the elderly, pregnant women, individuals with respiratory conditions, and heart disease patients, who are particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of the pollution. Key areas reporting the highest PM2.5 levels include Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Phitsanulok, Sukhothai, Nonthaburi, Saraburi, Phetchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Sakhon, and Prachuap Khiri Khan. In response, the Public Health Ministry has distributed 1.1 million N95 masks, while the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has provided 377,000 masks to at-risk populations. The initiative, however, has faced scrutiny in the political arena. During a parliamentary session, opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut criticised the current government's efforts, led by the Pheu Thai party, for insufficient decentralisation in pollution control. He highlighted gaps in budget allocation for forest fire management, noting that of the THB 620 million earmarked for 1,800 sites in 14 provinces, only 90 sites have received funding. This shortfall leaves other high-risk areas unaddressed. Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong, standing in for Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, confirmed that a portion of the budget has been channelled towards disaster prevention training for officers nationwide. This burning ban serves as a pivotal measure in Thailand's ongoing battle against pollution, emphasising the government’s commitment to improving air quality and safeguarding public health, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-31

Please continue here: Thai Hostages Freed: Five Safely Released from Gaza Two Thai captives, who has been held hostage by Hamas in Gaza since October 7, 2023, are escorted by Hamas fighters as they are handed over to the Red Cross in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, Thursday Jan. 30, 2025.(AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi) Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350365-thai-hostages-freed-five-safely-released-from-gaza/ //CLOSED// /Admin

Thailand Launches 'Seal Stop Safe' Anti-Drug Campaign Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV On Thursday, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra spearheaded the launch of the "Seal Stop Safe" anti-drug initiative. The campaign aims to curb drug trafficking across 51 border districts in 14 provinces, with the government setting a six-month target to see tangible results. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350374-thailand-launches-seal-stop-safe-anti-drug-campaign/

Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV On Thursday, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra spearheaded the launch of the "Seal Stop Safe" anti-drug initiative. The campaign aims to curb drug trafficking across 51 border districts in 14 provinces, with the government setting a six-month target to see tangible results. At the heart of the program is the prevention and suppression of drugs, a priority outlined by Ms Paetongtarn during the event at Government House's Santi Maitri building. She emphasised that the eradication of drugs is crucial for unlocking the true potential of the Thai populace. Commencing next month, the campaign will persist until the end of July, honing in on high-risk districts identified by the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB). Altogether, 76 police stations within these zones will participate, with military units and officials collaborating to staunch the flow of illegal substances into Thailand. Ms Paetongtarn assured that those displaying exceptional dedication to this mission would receive enhanced welfare benefits. Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai highlighted the challenge at hand. Thailand's many natural entry points for traffickers necessitate a reinforced prevention strategy as border officials can't manage them all effectively. Should the situation fail to improve in the stipulated time, he indicated that more stringent measures would be implemented. Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV Recent reports underscore the urgency. Thailand has seen a marked uptick in drug inflows, particularly from neighbouring Myanmar, where organised crime groups have partnered with militias and rebels to establish vast "super labs" in Shan and Kachin states. In the initial eight months of 2024 alone, authorities in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Mae Hong Son confiscated 346 million methamphetamine pills—a staggering 172% increase over all of 2023's seizures. Additionally, crystal methamphetamine seizures rose by 39% in the same areas, totalling 6.48 tonnes, while heroin seizures reached 327 kilograms, nearly seven times the previous year's tally. Despite these efforts, methamphetamine prices on Thai streets have decreased, hinting at the substantial quantities still eluding law enforcement. As of 2024, a methamphetamine tablet costs about 25 to 30 baht, a steep drop from 200 baht a decade ago. According to National Police Chief Kittharath Punpetch, drug trafficking patterns remain unchanged, with narcotics crossing borders into Thailand before being distributed throughout the country. He pledged that police would coordinate closely with military forces, boosting checkpoint numbers in identified problem zones to intensify checks and control efforts, reported Amarin TV and Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-31

Thai Hostages Freed: Five Safely Released from Gaza Two Thai captives, who has been held hostage by Hamas in Gaza since October 7, 2023, are escorted by Hamas fighters as they are handed over to the Red Cross in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, Thursday Jan. 30, 2025.(AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi) In a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, two Israeli and five Thai hostages have been released by Palestinian militants in Gaza and have safely crossed into Israeli territory, according to an official announcement made today, 30 January. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350365-thai-hostages-freed-five-safely-released-from-gaza/

Two Thai captives, who has been held hostage by Hamas in Gaza since October 7, 2023, are escorted by Hamas fighters as they are handed over to the Red Cross in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, Thursday Jan. 30, 2025.(AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi) In a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine, two Israeli and five Thai hostages have been released by Palestinian militants in Gaza and have safely crossed into Israeli territory, according to an official announcement made today, 30 January. The five Thai nationals, identified as Pongsak Tanna, Sathian Suwannakhan, Sriaoun Watchara, Seathao Bannawat, and Surasak Rumnao, are to be received by Thai government representatives stationed near the Gaza border. The release comes amid a broader negotiation that initially involved exchanging hostages for Palestinian prisoners as part of an agreement to pause hostilities in the besieged coastal region. Earlier today, discussions took a dramatic turn as militants agreed to the release of these hostages in exchange for 110 Palestinian prisoners. However, the process was not without its hurdles. The Israeli government postponed the prisoner release following chaotic scenes during the hostage handover in the Khan Younis area of southern Gaza. One of the Israeli hostages, Agam Berger, an Israeli soldier, was seen emerging from the ruins of northern Gaza's Jabalia, before being transferred into the care of the Red Cross. Her family, grateful for her return, expressed their relief, stating they could now begin the emotional recovery process, though true healing won't commence until all hostages return home. A crowd greets Islamic Jihad and Hamas fighters as they arrive for the hand-over of Israeli and Thai hostages to the Red Cross in the south Gaza Strip town of Khan Younis, Thursday Jan. 30, 2025. (AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi) Two other hostages, aged 80 and 29, were also freed after being captured during a prior attack on Kibbutz Nir Oz on 7 October 2023. Video footage distributed by the Islamic Jihad, a Hamas affiliate, depicted them in a poignant embrace, reflecting their ordeal and overwhelming relief at their liberation. In the bustling streets of Tel Aviv's Hostages Square, Israelis gathered to watch these events unfold on large screens. Emotions ran high as onlookers cheered and shed tears, witnessing family members being reunited with their loved ones. The hostages will undergo medical evaluations upon return, as their physical and psychological well-being is prioritised. This release marks a hopeful, albeit temporary, pause in a conflict that has claimed the lives of over 47,000 Palestinians and 1,200 Israelis, alongside the abduction of more than 250 individuals. Meanwhile, efforts continue to safely retrieve the remaining 89 hostages believed to be held in Gaza. Among them, approximately 30 people have sadly been declared deceased in absentia. This fragile peace, underlined by ongoing unrest and the pursuit of militant leaders, paints a complex picture of a region yearning for sustained peace. For the families of Thai hostages Pongsak Tanna and Surasak Rumnao, the release has been described as an almost surreal relief. Relatives shared sentiments of gratitude and spiritual reflection, expressing intentions to make merit at local temples as a gesture of thanksgiving and a symbolic cleansing of past misfortunes, as per Thai customs. The return of these individuals to their homeland represents a significant and emotional milestone in the turbulent narrative of hostages' recovery amidst an enduring geopolitical conflict reported Reuters via Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-01-31

Motorbikes flout Pattaya’s one-way rule, locals demand action By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Traffic in Pattaya’s bustling Buakhao area is turning into a dangerous free-for-all, as motorbikes continue to ignore one-way restrictions on Soi Honey and Soi Diana, raising serious safety concerns among residents and business owners. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350352-motorbikes-flout-pattaya’s-one-way-rule-locals-demand-action/

Publicity stunt: PM Paetongtarn launches monthly TV show By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to make her TV debut this Sunday, February 2, in the first episode of her brand-new talk show, Empowering Thais. The programme aims to promote her government’s achievements and future vision, giving the public a direct insight into national policies. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350321-publicity-stunt-pm-paetongtarn-launches-monthly-tv-show/

Thailand cracks down on fake visa holders: Pakistanis face blacklist By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Aviation A2Z Thai police are tightening the screws on travellers using fake documents, with Pakistanis now facing blacklisting if caught. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350323-thailand-cracks-down-on-fake-visa-holders-pakistanis-face-blacklist/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 31 January 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1350328-thailand-live-friday-31-january-2025-all-news-in-one-click/

File photo for reference only Thai Authorities Nab 17 Foreigners in Island Immigration Raids Authorities have intensified their efforts to clamp down on illegal immigration activities on some of Thailand's renowned tourist hotspots. A recent sweep on Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao has led to the arrest of 17 foreigners and one Thai national, accused of breaching immigration laws and operating without necessary permits. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350316-thai-authorities-nab-17-foreigners-in-island-immigration-raids/

Thai Authorities Nab 17 Foreigners in Island Immigration Raids File photo for reference only Authorities have intensified their efforts to clamp down on illegal immigration activities on some of Thailand's renowned tourist hotspots. A recent sweep on Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao has led to the arrest of 17 foreigners and one Thai national, accused of breaching immigration laws and operating without necessary permits. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350316-thai-authorities-nab-17-foreigners-in-island-immigration-raids/

File photo for reference only Authorities have intensified their efforts to clamp down on illegal immigration activities on some of Thailand's renowned tourist hotspots. A recent sweep on Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao has led to the arrest of 17 foreigners and one Thai national, accused of breaching immigration laws and operating without necessary permits. Surat Thani's provincial immigration office embarked on this operation after receiving information about foreigners allegedly exploiting tourist visas to engage in unlawful work practices on the islands. Under the leadership of Pol Col Naruewat Phutthawiro, these coordinated raids saw immigration officials join forces with local police and administrative officers. On Koh Samui, separate raids resulted in the detention of a British and a Laotian national. The British citizen was reportedly found to have overstayed their visa, while the Laotian was apprehended for illegal entry into Thailand. These charges highlight the ongoing issues of visa compliance that authorities aim to rectify. Koh Phangan witnessed the arrest of 12 individuals stemming from diverse backgrounds, including five Russians, two Ukrainians, and five Myanmar nationals. Offences ranged from establishing unregistered educational facilities to operating nurseries without official approvals. These enterprises not only contravene local regulations but also undermine legitimate businesses abiding by Thai laws and paying required taxes. Meanwhile, on Koh Tao, three individuals from Myanmar were found working without proper work permits. Furthermore, a Thai national was accused of illegally running a nursery and employing undocumented migrants, exacerbating concerns regarding lawful employment practices on the islands. The genesis of these raids traces back to directives from national police chief Kittharath Punpetch, who issued orders for a robust response against foreign nationals misusing tourist visas. The drive, aptly dubbed "Operation X-ray," underscores the commitment to safeguard Thailand's economic interests and ensure safety on these beloved travel destinations. Government officials stressed that these measures are part of a broader initiative to regulate the influx of foreign workers and maintain law and order. It serves as a stern reminder that while Thailand remains a welcoming destination for tourists and investors alike, adherence to the country's legal frameworks is non-negotiable. In a nation where the tourism sector forms a crucial economic backbone, maintaining the sanctity of tourist activities is paramount. As this crackdown unfolds, authorities assure that compliance checks will continue to be part of ongoing operations, deterring further misconduct and reinforcing Thailand’s position as a lawful and thriving tourist haven, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-30

Indian-Thai man accuses delivery rider of spying, threatens to kill him by Petch Petpailin Photo by ศุภกร จันต๊ะสุข via Facebook group/ คนขับ Bolt drivers thailand มอเตอร์ไซค์ (เท่านั้น) An Indian-born man, who also holds Thai citizenship, brutally attacked and threatened to kill an app-based Thai delivery rider at his home in Soi Hua Mak 8, in the Bang Kapi district of Bangkok, yesterday, January 29. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350297-indian-thai-man-accuses-delivery-rider-of-spying-threatens-to-kill-him/

Photo by ศุภกร จันต๊ะสุข via Facebook group/ คนขับ Bolt drivers thailand มอเตอร์ไซค์ (เท่านั้น) by Petch Petpailin An Indian-born man, who also holds Thai citizenship, brutally attacked and threatened to kill an app-based Thai delivery rider at his home in Soi Hua Mak 8, in the Bang Kapi district of Bangkok, yesterday, January 29. A witness called officers from Hua Mak Police Station to the scene at approximately 3.30pm after seeing the foreign man dragging an app-based delivery rider, later identified as 46 year old Uthit, into his home. A gunshot was fired inside the house, leaving the witness and locals in the area frightened. Upon the police’s arrival, an elderly woman, suspected to be the attacker’s mother, greeted the officers and led them to the living room. Police reported that the suspect, identified as 46 year old Siri-arnon, was intoxicated, reeking of alcohol, with bloodshot eyes. The victim, Uthit, was found inside the house with wounds and bruises across his body. Five pistols were placed on a table in the room. Uthit was transferred to hospital, while the attacker was taken to the police station for questioning. Siri-arnon told police that multiple riders had come to his home over the past four to five days. He claimed those riders attempted to enter his residence and acted like spies, gathering information about him for someone. He believed that Uthit was one of these spy riders. Photo via TNews Assault and death threat Uthit denied the accusation, explaining that a woman booked him for a parcel delivery service and instructed him to collect a parcel from Siri-arnon’s home. Upon arrival, Uthit contacted his client to get the parcel but the woman ignored his inquiries. According to Uthit, the woman asked him to count how many vehicles were in the house and describe them. While following the client’s instructions and relaying the information, Siri-arnon and a woman left the house in separate cars. Photo via DailyNews Uthit said he stood in front of the house, confused about where and how to collect the parcel. Suddenly, Siri-arnon returned home, got out of his car, rushed towards him, kicked his motorcycle, and then attacked him. Uthit alleged that Siri-arnon accused him of being a spy and repeatedly hit him on the head with his gun. He revealed that what terrified him most was the death threat, as Siri-arnon reportedly told him that he would, “bury you with a stray dog outside.” Photo via DailyNews Siri-arnon allegedly fired a gunshot and continued physically assaulting Uthit until his mother intervened and the police arrived. Uthit said he repeatedly tried to prove his innocence and explain his delivery job, but Siri-arnon refused to listen. Alleged jealousy problem Uthit suspected that the woman who booked his service was Siri-arnon’s jealous wife and that she wanted to know who was with her husband while she was away. Photo via TNews As of now, police have not confirmed the rider’s assumption but have already charged Siri-arnon with two offences: Section 295 of the Criminal Law: physically assaulting another person and causing mental or physical injury. The penalty is up to two years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both. Section 310 of the Criminal Law: detaining a person, leading to death or severe injury. The penalty is imprisonment for three to 15 years. In a similar case reported last week, another Indian-born sedan driver allegedly crashed his car into an app-based food delivery rider with intent, resulting in the rider’s death. The driver was arrested but later released on 600,000 baht bail. No further updates on the case have been provided. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-30

Armed Loan Sharks Charge Teacher 300 Baht Per Hour Late Fee Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Police in Nan have apprehended members of a loan shark gang who brandished weapons to intimidate a teacher at their school over an unpaid debt. The gang demanded a fee of 300 baht per hour until the debt was settled, threatening not to kill but to injure the debtor, leaving victims in fear. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350294-armed-loan-sharks-charge-teacher-300-baht-per-hour-late-fee/