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In a historic move announced in Bangkok, the British Embassy and Thailand Science Research and Innovation (TSRI) have joined forces to roll out the International Science Partnerships Fund (ISPF). This jaw-dropping 337-million-British-pound (15.3 billion baht) venture, set to be fully operational by the year’s end, is poised to revolutionise the realms of science and innovation on a global scale. Prompted by the pressing environmental crises gripping our planet, the ISPF sets its sights on nurturing sustainable scientific breakthroughs while fostering collaborative efforts amongst international partners. With a laser focus on four pivotal themes, Resilient Planet, Transformative Technologies, Healthy People, Animal and Plants, and Tomorrow’s Planet, this initiative aims to spearhead solutions to some of humanity’s most daunting challenges. British ambassador Mark Gooding expressed fervent enthusiasm. “We are seeking collaborations from different sectors to work together between two countries and take forward the scientific research and development to tackle the big global challenges together.” Echoing this sentiment, Sirirurg Songsivilai, chairperson of TSRI’s science, research, and innovation promotion committee, highlighted the pivotal role of international cooperation. “With the launch of this fund, it augments our belief that international collaboration is crucial.” For Thailand, this monumental fund spells a boon for institutions like Leaders in Innovation Fellowships (LIF), Transforming Systems Through Partnerships (TSP), and the MRC-SEA One Health and Pandemic Preparedness programme. Patamawadee Pochanukul, TSRI’s president, stressed the importance of forward-thinking research strategies in confronting emerging challenges, such as potential new diseases, reported Bangkok Post. Furthermore, the ISPF underlines the enduring commitment to tackling environmental issues through sustained collaboration between the UK and Thailand, two nations with a rich history of cooperation. “We are glad to be partnered with the UK in developing our research system. With the national and public benefits as our prime focus, we will intensify our research and use our budget wisely.” by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-22 - 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 airlines vow cheaper domestic flights after public outcry by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Six Thai airlines have asked for authorisation to expand domestic flight operations during peak holiday periods, responding to widespread public fury over exorbitant airfares. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320518-thai-airlines-vow-cheaper-domestic-flights-after-public-outcry/

Six Thai airlines have asked for authorisation to expand domestic flight operations during peak holiday periods, responding to widespread public fury over exorbitant airfares. Representatives from Thai Airways International, Bangkok Airways, Thai AirAsia, Thai Lion Air, Nok Air, and Thai Vietjet convened with the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) yesterday to delve into strategies for curbing fare hikes. This pivotal meeting was prompted by a storm of discontent on social media, where netizens vented frustration over domestic flight costs, reaching staggering heights of 10,000 baht for a single journey from Bangkok to Phuket. Transport Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit spearheaded the discussion, urging airlines to account for the soaring prices during extended weekends and holidays. Suriya revealed that the dialogue yielded both immediate and long-term solutions to alleviate the burden of domestic airfares. In the short term, airlines proposed amplifying flight frequencies during holiday seasons, particularly in the mornings and evenings, to present passengers with more affordable alternatives. Suriya affirmed that the CAAT would collaborate with key stakeholders such as the Airports of Thailand Plc (AoT), the Department of Airports, and the Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Ltd (Aero Thai) before rolling out this initiative. Additionally, airlines pledged to explore avenues to slash prices for the upcoming Songkran holiday in April, a period marked by extensive travel across Thailand. Looking ahead, Suriya outlined plans for the CAAT to coordinate with airlines in recalibrating the ceiling for domestic airfares in the long term, reported The Nation. He underscored the urgency of devising a new ceiling promptly, given that airlines require a year’s notice to adjust their pricing mechanisms effectively. The six airlines committed to unveiling their short-term strategies for fare reduction at a follow-up meeting with the CAAT scheduled for February 28. In related news, the soaring cost of air travel to Phuket has sparked a backlash from local tourists, with low-cost carriers reportedly charging up to 14,000 baht for a round trip from Bangkok. Despite making bookings weeks in advance, some travellers reported paying 5,000 baht for a one-way ticket. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-22 - 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

Phuket El Al flight thwarts communication hijack attempt by Top Top Photo courtesy of Executive Traveller An El Al flight en route from Phuket to Ben-Gurion Airport in Israel encountered a spine-chilling moment on Saturday night as unidentified hostile elements attempted to seize control of its communication network. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320517-phuket-el-al-flight-thwarts-communication-hijack-attempt/

An El Al flight en route from Phuket to Ben-Gurion Airport in Israel encountered a spine-chilling moment on Saturday night as unidentified hostile elements attempted to seize control of its communication network. This nerve-racking incident, the second of its kind within a week, sent shockwaves through the aviation world. Despite the menacing takeover attempt, the aircraft managed to reach its destination unscathed, ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew on board. The high-stakes encounter unfolded in airspace notorious for the presence of Iran-backed Houthis, although sources from Somalia have pointed fingers at a group hailing from the de-facto state of Somaliland, recently aligned with Ethiopia, as the likely perpetrators behind this audacious assault. Upon receiving aberrant instructions to veer off their planned route, the vigilant flight crew swiftly identified the looming threat. Refusing to comply with the suspicious directives, they swiftly transitioned to alternative communication channels, cross-verifying their intended route with other air traffic control services to steer clear of potential danger or diversion. El Al, Israel’s flagship carrier, acknowledged the gravity of the situation, highlighting the widespread disruptions in communication plaguing Somalia throughout the week, impacting not just El Al flights but others as well. Pilots worldwide have been cautioned by official authorities to dismiss any dubious instructions and switch to backup communication frequencies when necessary, reported Travel Wires. Reassuring the public, El Al underscored the exemplary professionalism exhibited by its pilots in handling the crisis. The airline stressed that such disturbances while concerning, were not exclusively targeted at El Al and did not escalate into a full-blown security breach. The adept response of the flight crew ensured that the flight remained steadfast on its trajectory, underscoring the airline’s preparedness and resilience in the face of potential threats. In related news, an unruly British man was arrested after his flight from Bangkok to London Heathrow landed following a cowardly attack on a Thai Airways member of staff. by Top Top Photo courtesy of Executive Traveller Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-22 - 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

Tunisian Man Arrested for Theft in Patong By Goongnang Suksawat Patong –A 36-year-old Tunisian man was arrested in Patong for theft. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320516-tunisian-man-arrested-for-theft-in-patong/

Patong –A 36-year-old Tunisian man was arrested in Patong for theft. The Patong Police told the Phuket Express that on Tuesday (February 20th) they arrested a 36-year-old Tunisian man (His name was not given by Patong Police). The arrest came after an unidentified victim filed a report to the Patong Police. The victim told police that a male foreign man stole the victim’s belongings at the end of the Bangla Road. By Goongnang Suksawat Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-02-22 - 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

Pattaya Police Arrest Two Chinese Nationals for Illegal Possession of Firearms By Aim Tanakorn Pattaya —Pattaya police arrested two Chinese nationals for illegal possession of firearms on February 21st, 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320514-pattaya-police-arrest-two-chinese-nationals-for-illegal-possession-of-firearms/

Urgent Course Being Launched To Train 5,000 Nurses In 2 Years Amid Severe Shortage by TNR Staff Thai nurses on duty. Photos: Thai Rath AMID a critical shortage of 50,000 nurses nationwide, the Public Health Ministry is now launching an urgent course to train 2,500 of them a year over two years for a total of 5,000 starting next year, TV Channel 7 said late afternoon today (Feb. 21). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320513-urgent-course-being-launched-to-train-5000-nurses-in-2-years-amid-severe-shortage/

Pattaya —Pattaya police arrested two Chinese nationals for illegal possession of firearms on February 21st, 2024. The move was to combat crimes affecting Pattaya’s tourism image and economy, Pattaya Police Chief Pol. Col. Navin Teerawit stated during a press conference. Acting on intelligence reports, authorities conducted an investigation, leading them to a homestay in Soi Na Jomtien 22, Sattahip. Police then searched the house and arrested Mr. Cai Qingqjng (28) and Mr. Lei Chen (28), both Chinese nationals. During the operation, officers seized a 9mm pistol, ammunition magazines, handcuffs, and a shoulder bag. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-02-22 - 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

AMID a critical shortage of 50,000 nurses nationwide, the Public Health Ministry is now launching an urgent course to train 2,500 of them a year over two years for a total of 5,000 starting next year, TV Channel 7 said late afternoon today (Feb. 21). Public Health Minister Chonlanan Srikaew said senior officials had approved a proposal from Praboromarajchanok Institute and the Nursing and Midwifery Council to quickly train more nurses. An intensive course of two and half years is being introduced for bachelor’s degree graduates in any field, but it would be helpful if they have studied in a medical science field, he said, however adding that there are questions about the readiness of training process and the necessary budget with the National Health Commission and other agencies involved preparing a summary to table to the cabinet. by TNR Staff Thai nurses on duty. Photos: Thai Rath Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-22 - 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

Probe Proposed Into Thaksin’s ‘Critical Illnesses’ By Thai Newsroom Reporters Justice Minister Thawee Sodsong, left, and de facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra, right. Photo: Matichon FRESH INVESTIGATION WAS today (Feb, 21) proposed into alleged intransparency of certain government officials in charge of the “critically ill” de facto Pheu Thai boss-cum-convict on parole Thaksin Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320512-probe-proposed-into-thaksin’s-‘critical-illnesses’/

FRESH INVESTIGATION WAS today (Feb, 21) proposed into alleged intransparency of certain government officials in charge of the “critically ill” de facto Pheu Thai boss-cum-convict on parole Thaksin Shinawatra. Former election commissioner Somchai Srisutthiyakorn posted on his Facebook page today to call for an impartial, truthful investigation by a House committee or any other independent agency into alleged contentious, intransparent conduct of government officials ranging from those of the Corrections Department and Police Hospital to Justice Minister Thawee Sodsong for their handling of the “critically ill” Thaksin over the last six months. The former commissioner’s call for the fact-finding probe into the “critical illnesses” of the de facto Pheu Thai boss-cum-convict on parole closely followed yesterday’s press conference given by Pheu Thai spokesperson Danuporn Punnakunt who quoted Thaksin’s daughter/party leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra as saying her father has been putting on soft splints around his neck and right arm due to degenerative bones and damaged tendons and that he is to undergo an operation on his neck at a yet unscheduled date. According to the Pheu Thai spokesperson, the de facto party boss had decided to indefinitely put off his operation and preferred to leave the hospital for his home upon being granted parole on Sunday. By Thai Newsroom Reporters Top: Justice Minister Thawee Sodsong, left, and de facto Pheu Thai boss Thaksin Shinawatra, right. Photo: Matichon Source: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-02-22 - 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

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 22 February 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1320511-thailand-live-thursday-22-february-2024/

Phuket cracks down on illegal operations in Chinese restaurants Picture courtesy of PR Phuket The bustling tourist hub of Phuket, in Thailand, was recently the scene of an extensive inspection operation. A composite task force composed of representatives from 15 different government entities descended upon six Chinese eateries located in the Naka Market area of Wichit. Alarmingly, three instances of law infringement were uncovered in the process, including one restaurant that was found to be operating without a proper license. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320482-phuket-cracks-down-on-illegal-operations-in-chinese-restaurants/

Dutch Expat Found Dead in Pattaya Condominium On February 20th, 2024, at 9:30 PM, Pattaya police discovered the deceased body of a 72-year-old Dutch national identified as Mr. Ronald Paul Pijiman in his room at an 8-story condominium along Thappraya Road. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320495-dutch-expat-found-dead-in-pattaya-condominium/

The Deputy Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police (RTP), Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, faces two charges after financial transactions of his were found linked with the online gambling operators. Four other senior police officers were found involved but their identities had not yet been revealed. Big Joke faces 2 charges over financial links to gambling operators by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/แก้ว เกลือสำเภาทอง Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320510-big-joke-faces-2-charges-over-financial-links-to-gambling-operators/

Big Joke faces 2 charges over financial links to gambling operators by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/แก้ว เกลือสำเภาทอง The Deputy Commissioner of the Royal Thai Police (RTP), Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, faces two charges after financial transactions of his were found linked with the online gambling operators. Four other senior police officers were found involved but their identities had not yet been revealed. The Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) officers raided Big Joke’s home in September last year over his alleged involvement in the gambling website operation. Eight police officers who worked closely with the deputy commissioner also face the same allegations. It was later confirmed that all eight subordinates were involved in the gambling ring. They were identified as Police Major General Namkiat Teerarotjanapong, Police Colonel Khemarin Pitsamai, Police Colonel Parkbhum Pitsamai, Police Colonel Arrit Kuprasitrat, Police Major Chanon Aumthorn, Police Sergeant Nattawut Watwaew, Police Sergeant Apisit Khonyong, and Police Lieutenant Colonel Karit Pariyakate. Big Joke insisted on his innocence, saying that the charges against him were the result of an internal conflict within the RTP. He accused some officers of trying to tarnish his reputation and obstruct his promotion as RTP commissioner. The development of the case was not made public until today, February 21, when the Deputy Commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), Jaroonkiat Pankaew, provided an update on the case to the public. Jaroonkiat explained that the suspects in this gambling case were divided into two groups. The first group included 61 suspects, and eight of Big Joke’s subordinates were in this group. Jaroonkiat went on to explain that the second group included five high-ranking police officers who had financial transactions connected with the suspects in the first group. He then confirmed that Big Joke was one of the five police officers in the second group. Financial links Jaroonkiat revealed that there was clear evidence leading to Big Joke, such as the bank account statement showing the financial transaction of over 300 million baht. The money from the gambling operation went to five police officers and their family members. The money was spent daily on house rent, car purchases, tuition fees, holidays, etc. According to Jaroonkiat, Big Joke now faces two charges including: Section 149 of the Criminal Law: requesting, receiving, agreeing to receive property or benefits, and committing illegal acts while in an official position. The penalty is imprisonment from five to 20 years, life imprisonment, or a fine of 100,000 to 400,000 baht. Section 157 of the Criminal Law: dishonestly exercising any of official duties to cause damages to another person. The penalty will be imprisonment from one to 10 years, a fine from 2,000 to 20,000 baht, or both. Jaroonkiat ensured that there were no internal conflicts or attempts to tarnish the reputation of this operation. The case was investigated based on justice, as it had a significant impact on RTP. However, there is no report on the next steps of the operation and Big Joke has not yet responded to the matter. Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-22 - 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

Prime Minister of Thailand proposes pollution mitigation fund by Mitch Connor Srettha Thavisin, the Prime Minister (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) The Prime Minister of Thailand proposed the establishment of a pollution mitigation fund with the United Nations (UN). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320459-prime-minister-of-thailand-proposes-pollution-mitigation-fund/

The Prime Minister of Thailand proposed the establishment of a pollution mitigation fund with the United Nations (UN). The proposal by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin was made during a recent meeting with Amina J Mohammed, the UN’s Deputy Secretary-General, centred around the discussion of sustainable development. Post Tuesday’s Cabinet briefing, the 62 year old prime minister revealed how he had presented the fund as a means to offer financial support to economically weaker nations. The goal is to combat pollution, particularly fine particulate matter smaller than 2.5 microns (PM2.5), reported Bangkok Post. He stressed that pollution issues are intertwined with the global economy and should not be viewed as merely domestic affairs. In his homeland of Thailand, pollution escalates when local and neighbouring countries set their agricultural fields ablaze. This burning is primarily caused by the lack of funds to purchase herbicides amid the economic downturn, he explained. Hence, the proposed fund could be instrumental in addressing Thailand’s environmental challenges while fostering national development. Pollution problems are connected to the global economy and should not be treated as domestic problems, he shared. Highlighting the severity of the pollution situation in Thailand, the Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (GISTDA) reported that, as of 8am, yesterday, February 20, 27 provinces had experienced orange-level pollution. This exceeded the safe threshold of 37.5 micrograms per cubic metre the day before. Nakhon Phanom was reported as the worst affected, with a reading of 74.8 µg/m³, followed closely by Amnat Charoen (72.4), Nong Khai (69.6), Mukdaharn (66.6), and Bueng Kan (64). In the province of Nan, pollution levels have consistently surpassed the safe limit for at least 24 days, largely due to ongoing wildfires in the districts surrounding Si Nan National Park. The resulting smog has blanketed the province, with pollution levels ranging from 41.7 to 51.5 µg/m³ at various measuring points. It is estimated that a minimum of 1,000 rai of forest within the national park has been damaged. The Director-General of the Nan-Phrae Wildfire Control Promotion Centre, Theraphol Thongmeekhao, admitted that controlling these widespread fires is challenging due to the vast forest area and a shortage of manpower. To combat this, the local authority has banned any burning in the province from March 15 to April 30, threatening legal action against violators. Meanwhile, on Monday, Bangkok experienced relatively mild pollution, with the city’s Air Quality Information Centre reporting levels between 9.5–25.8 µg/m³. Amina J Mohammed, in response to the prime minister’s proposal, expressed her appreciation for the Thai government’s initiative. by Mitch Connor Srettha Thavisin, the Prime Minister (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-21 - 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 man admits attempted rape of Chinese woman by Petch Petpailin Photo via SiamRath Police arrested a Thai man for attempting to rape and murder a Chinese woman in Pattaya. The suspect confessed to the attempted rape charge but denied setting her on fire to kill her. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320457-thai-man-admits-attempted-rape-of-chinese-woman/

Police arrested a Thai man for attempting to rape and murder a Chinese woman in Pattaya. The suspect confessed to the attempted rape charge but denied setting her on fire to kill her. The 29 year old Chinese victim, Meilin, filed a complaint at Nong Prue Police Station on February 18 that a Thai motorcycle rider offered her a ride from Chon Buri to Pattaya but changed the route so he could rape her at a roadside forest along the Polo-Ban Bueng Road in Pattaya. Meilin reported that the man’s attempt was unsuccessful, leading him to steal her money, 86,000 baht, and then set fire to the scene to kill her before absconding. Upon reviewing CCTV footage along the road, the police identified a suspicious Thai man, 41 year old Thip Phasiri. Subsequently, officers apprehended Thip at his residence in the eastern province of Rayong and obtained a photograph of him for the identification process. Upon being presented with a lineup of portraits, Meilin positively identified Thip as her assailant. Consequently, Thip was arrested and transported to the Nong Prue Police Station for interrogation. During questioning, Thip admitted to attempting to assault Meilin but refuted any involvement in attempted murder, as alleged by the victim. He denied setting fire to the scene, as claimed by Meilin. Thip claimed that he let the victim go after he failed to rape her and stole her money before fleeing. Thip also confessed that he left the motorcycle used in the crime, a black Yamaha Finn, at a petrol station on Bang Na-Trat Road in Rayong province and showed remorse for his actions. “I am sorry for what I did.” Police have reason to suspect that Thip was involved in the theft from the caddies at Siam Country Club as they rode home on their motorcycles. Further investigation and questioning will be carried out regarding the case. Thip initially faces three charges including: Section 278 of the Criminal Law: committing an obscene act against someone over 15 years old, through intimidation, violence, or by exploiting their inability to resist. The penalty is imprisonment of up to 10 years, a fine of up to 200,000 baht, or both. Section 276 of the Criminal Law: sexually assaulting another person by threatening or using a violent act. The penalty is imprisonment from four to 20 years and a fine from 80,000 to 400,000 baht. Section 340 of the Criminal Law: committing theft by assaulting the victim and using a vehicle to facilitate the crime. The penalty is a minimum of five to ten years imprisonment and a fine of at least 100,000 to 200,000 baht. ORIGINAL STORY: Chinese woman escapes attempted rape and murder in Pattaya A Chinese woman is seeking justice after she managed to escape from a Thai man who tried to rape and kill her near a roadside forest beside Siam Country Club in Pattaya. Police are currently searching for the suspect. The Chinese victim, 29 year old Meilin, and her younger brother, 19 year old Chen, called officers from the Nong Prue Police Station to the forest along the Polo-Ban Bueng Road in Pattaya at 10.30pm yesterday, February 18. Officers found that some of the forest was burned at a radius of about 70 to 80 metres. Police reported that Meilin appeared frightened and initially provided confused information to the police. After calming down, she recounted the incident with the help of an interpreter. According to Meilin, she and her brother wanted to go to Walking Street in Pattaya and were waiting for public transport on Sattahip-Nakhon Ratchasima Road, about 10 kilometres away from the attempted rape scene. Then, two Thai men rode past them on motorcycles and offered them a ride. Meilin said she and her brother agreed to go with Thai men and got on separate motorcycles. Unfortunately, the Thai motorcycle rider took Meilin on a different route. The Thai man stopped in a remote area, forced Meilin off the motorcycle, and tied her arms. Police noted signs of her wrists being tied. He attempted to rape her but was unsuccessful. Frustrated, the man then applied lotion to Meilin’s body to remove his fingerprints, set fire to the scene and left her to die in the middle of the fire. The suspect also stole her money before fleeing. The total loss was about 86,000 baht including 15,000 yuan in cash, (76,000 baht), and 10,000 baht in cash. Meilin said she burned the rope at her wrist and managed to escape from the fire. She contacted her brother and later reported the matter to the police. Suspect at large Police officer Jeerasak Abfaeng reported that officers found the woman suspicious because no other struggle signs were shown, except the injuries on her wrists. Her clothes also looked clean just like nothing had happened to her. Meilin showed a video to the police, recorded while on the suspect’s motorcycle, expressing her need for help and concern about her diverted route. In the video, the suspect wore a helmet, a dark blue long-sleeve jacket, and motorcycle gloves. He carried a backpack in the front and used a black Honda Wave 125. The motorcycle was seen riding on Huay Yai Road toward Sukhumvit Road. Meilin’s video also showed that her brother was on another motorcycle ahead of her before the Thai man changed the direction. Further investigation revealed Meilin’s belongings, including burned trousers, a passport, and a hotel key card, 10 meters away from the scene. Meilin explained that she ran to that spot, and changed her clothes while waiting for her brother. The evidence provided credibility to Meilin’s complaint. Police reviewed security cameras in the area and nearby to identify the suspect. They managed to identify the motorcycle rider who took Meilin’s brother to Pattaya, a 40 year old man named Mai. Police did not find anything suspicious with his statement and later let Mai go. by Petch Petpailin Photo via SiamRath Full story: The Thaiger 2024-02-21 - 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 widow swindled in romance scam by fake college director by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A 52 year old woman from Udon Thani has been swindled out of nearly 50,000 baht (US$1,386) in a romance scam by a man who claimed to be the director of a well-known vocational college. The man, who made first contact over Facebook, charmed and deceived her into a romantic entanglement before borrowing money and vanishing without a trace. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320456-thai-widow-swindled-in-romance-scam-by-fake-college-director/

A 52 year old woman from Udon Thani has been swindled out of nearly 50,000 baht (US$1,386) in a romance scam by a man who claimed to be the director of a well-known vocational college. The man, who made first contact over Facebook, charmed and deceived her into a romantic entanglement before borrowing money and vanishing without a trace. The report, filed today, details how the woman was approached on social media by a man named Suradech (surname withheld for privacy reasons), who presented himself as the director of a vocational college in Udon Thani’s Nong Han district. Throughout their communication, which began in September 2022, Suradech shared concerns and sweet nothings, calling her “darling” and creating the illusion of a caring relationship. The woman, feeling lonely after her husband’s death, was comforted by his attention and began to trust him. Amid a romance scam, Suradech shared photos of himself attending various meetings, complete with name tags identifying his supposed position. This solidified the woman’s trust in his identity. As 2022 drew to a close, Suradech began to ask for loans, citing various emergencies such as car troubles and lost money. Sympathetic and believing she was helping a man of status, she transferred amounts ranging from 200 to 10,000 baht at a time, totalling around 50,000 baht, reported KhaoSod. Betrayal, legal action He reassured her that as a director, he was good for the money and even gave her his ATM card, claiming his salary would be deposited there for her to withdraw and settle his debts. However, when the time came to repay, excuses piled up, and attempts to withdraw money from the ATM revealed a balance of only 85 baht. Suradech had promised to repay the entire sum with a cooperative loan he expected to secure at the start of 2023. However, by January 2023, he had blocked her on social media and disappeared. The woman, deeply hurt by the betrayal in this romance scam, has since reported the incident to the Udon Thani City Police in hopes of tracking down Suradech to face legal action or to at least recover the borrowed money. The loss of 50,000 baht is significant for her, and she wishes to warn others not to fall for similar deceptions—sweet-talking suitors who turn out to be fraudsters. “I want my money back, the 50,000 baht. It’s not a small amount for me. I want this director to return it and not do this to anyone else—approaching to flirt only to deceive, borrow money, and then disappear into thin air.” In related news, a 65 year old Thai woman lost 3 million baht in a romance scam after engaging in a month-long online conversation with a scammer she met on a Facebook dating group. by Nattapong Westwood Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-02-21 - 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

Satellite imagery to resolve Khao Yai National Park land dispute by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Matichon In a bid to resolve the ongoing dispute over Sor Por Kor rights for land located inside Khao Yai National Park in Nakhon Ratchasima, the Agriculture, Natural Resources and Environment ministries convened yesterday, February 20. They agreed to employ satellite imagery data from the Royal Thai Survey Department to determine the lawful owners of the contentious lands. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1320455-satellite-imagery-to-resolve-khao-yai-national-park-land-dispute/