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Operation Dragon Slayer: Police Raids Target Chinese Crime-Linked Villas Picture courtesy: Khaosod Police in Chon Buri province have launched a series of raids, targeting luxurious villas suspecting connections to Chinese criminal enterprises. These dramatic developments are part of a wider operation dubbed "Dragon Slayer," aimed at cracking down on illegal Chinese investments in Thailand's tourism sector. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350013-operation-dragon-slayer-police-raids-target-chinese-crime-linked-villas/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod Police in Chon Buri province have launched a series of raids, targeting luxurious villas suspecting connections to Chinese criminal enterprises. These dramatic developments are part of a wider operation dubbed "Dragon Slayer," aimed at cracking down on illegal Chinese investments in Thailand's tourism sector. This Sunday, officers from the Economic Crime Suppression Division, under the directive of the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), descended upon five properties in the vibrant region of Chon Buri. These premises, known for housing an influx of Chinese tourists, are suspected of being purchased and funded through illicit means by Chinese nationals. The core of these investigations rests on allegations that money accumulated from criminal activities, including notorious call-centre scams, was being laundered into Thailand's booming hospitality market. The accused Chinese entities allegedly funnelled these funds into prime real estate, setting up villas specifically targeting Chinese tourists as clientele. Upon inspection, the targeted villas, each boasting extravagant poolside features, were collectively valued at over 20 million Thai Baht. These properties catered heavily to Chinese visitors who settled payments in cash, varied foreign currencies, and cutting-edge digital transactions, a move possibly designed to obscure their financial trails. What further complicates the matter are the tangled webs of ownership. The CIB's findings suggest that these properties were legally registered under names of local companies, apparently set up to run organised tours and related hospitality services. However, these corporate entities masked the real ownerships, with over 40 such companies allegedly acting as facades for the true Chinese owners pulling the strings from behind the curtain. Picture courtesy: Khaosod Authorities are currently piecing together evidence to ascertain the full scale of this secretive operation. It's believed that the local signees, purported as proprietors, might merely be proxy entities, lending their names to protect the identities of the original investors. This layered obfuscation strategy is commonly employed in money laundering operations to distance true owners from their illegal investments. The raids send a clear message about the intent to dismantle the nexus of crime infiltrating the Thai tourism industry. However, the operation is far from over as the authorities continue to pursue more leads, promising further actions and potential arrests in upcoming phases, reported Bangkok Post. Thailand, a magnet for global tourism, faces challenges in maintaining its integrity against such underhanded practices. While the outcome of Operation Dragon Slayer will unfold over time, it stands as a crucial step in safeguarding the nation’s economic stability and its reputable tourism sector. -- 2025-01-27

South Korean man allegedly tricked into smuggling drugs from Phuket to France by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Speednews ภูเก็ต A South Korean man narrowly avoided arrest after being tricked by a foreign man in Phuket into smuggling drugs from Thailand to France. He sought help from the Thai police just in time. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349985-south-korean-man-allegedly-tricked-into-smuggling-drugs-from-phuket-to-france/

Photo via Facebook/ Speednews ภูเก็ต by Petch Petpailin A South Korean man narrowly avoided arrest after being tricked by a foreign man in Phuket into smuggling drugs from Thailand to France. He sought help from the Thai police just in time. The Embassy of the Republic of Korea contacted officers from Thalang Police Station to investigate the luggage of 65 year old South Korean man, Park Sukhee, at a hotel in the Thalang district at around 11pm on Saturday, January 25. According to Sukhee, he checked into the hotel on January 24 and was scheduled to travel to France via Qatar Airways on Saturday. As he was preparing to leave the hotel for Phuket International Airport, he noticed that one of his bags was unusually heavy. Sukhee explained that the luggage had been given to him by a foreign man he had met in Phuket. The foreigner asked him to carry the bag to France, where someone would collect it. Growing suspicious of the bag’s contents, Sukhee sought assistance from the embassy and Thai police. Upon inspecting the luggage, officers discovered two tightly taped paper bags weighing approximately five kilogrammes. Further investigation revealed that the bags contained heroin. One bag weighed 3.8 kilogrammes, while the other weighed 2.8 kilogrammes. Photo via Facebook/ Speednews ภูเก็ต The drugs were confiscated, and police announced plans to review CCTV footage from the hotel to identify the person responsible for the illegal items. The connection between the suspect and the South Korean man, along with the reasons why Sukhee agreed to transport the items to France has not been disclosed by police. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-27

Teen arrested for opening fire in a motorcycle sale gone wrong by Ryan Turner Photo via KhaoSod A teen was arrested for attempted murder and stealing a motorcycle after a sale gone wrong. The incident occurred on January 22 when the suspect, 19 year old Kittinan, and four accomplices orchestrated a motorcycle sale, which ended in violence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349974-teen-arrested-for-opening-fire-in-a-motorcycle-sale-gone-wrong/

Photo via KhaoSod by Ryan Turner A teen was arrested for attempted murder and stealing a motorcycle after a sale gone wrong. The incident occurred on January 22 when the suspect, 19 year old Kittinan, and four accomplices orchestrated a motorcycle sale, which ended in violence. Yesterday, January 26, Police Lieutenant General Siam Boonsom and other senior officers ordered the arrest of Kittinan, wanted under a Thonburi Criminal Court warrant dated January 24. He was captured near Wat Pak Nam Fang Tai in Bangkok’s Phasi Charoen district after injuring a man and fleeing with the motorcycle. The incident unfolded at 6.57pm on January 22. The victim, a hired driver, was tasked to collect a motorcycle purchased from Kittinan’s group. They arranged the exchange at Wat Maprao Tia in Bangkok’s Phasi Charoen district. After the buyer transferred the payment, the victim began to load the motorcycle onto a pickup truck. However, Kittinan’s group resisted, leading to a confrontation. During the confrontation, a gunshot was fired, hitting the victim in the abdomen. Luckily, the injured party managed to flee and was later taken to Siriraj Hospital. Meanwhile, Kittinan and his accomplices escaped on motorcycles. Following investigations, police tracked Kittinan, locating his whereabouts at Wat Pak Nam Fang Thai, where they successfully detained him. He confessed to the shooting during questioning at Bang Sao Thong police station and was subsequently charged with attempted murder and firearm offences, reported KhaoSod. Photo via KhaoSod In similar motorcycle theft news, a patrol unit from Phetkasem apprehended a 37 year old man for motorcycle theft, catching him in the act as he attempted to swap out the licence plate of the stolen motorcycle. The arrest occurred yesterday, January 12 at 3pm, in the Lak Song subdistrict, Bang Khae district, Bangkok. In other shooting news, Royal Thai Police (RTP) apprehended a group of youths involved in shooting a firearm along a road in Pathum Thani and posting the incident on social media. The suspects confessed to buying the gun through a messaging app. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-27

Bangkok governor Under Pressure to Enforce Demolition of Aetas Condo File photo. Bangkok's governor is under renewed pressure to act on a decade-old court order mandating the demolition of the Aetas condo in Pathumwan district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349964-bangkok governor-under-pressure-to-enforce-demolition-of-aetas-condo/

File photo. Bangkok's governor is under renewed pressure to act on a decade-old court order mandating the demolition of the Aetas condo in Pathumwan district. This push comes after former senator Rosana Tositrakul urged Governor Chadchart Sittipunt to enforce the Supreme Administrative Court's ruling from ten years ago, which declared the building in violation of the Building Control Act. In a recent Facebook post, Ms Rosana emphasised the urgency of the situation, warning that Mr Chadchart might face accusations of dereliction of duty under Section 157 of the Criminal Code should he neglect to carry out the demolition. The 21-storey condominium on Soi Ruamrudee, constructed on a narrow street under 10 metres wide, has been a point of contention and concern for local residents since its inception. The opposition to the Aetas project began as far back as 2005, led by local residents and community leader Dr Songkram Supcharoen, who collectively challenged the Pathumwan district office's initial approval. Their efforts culminated in a lawsuit supported by the Foundation for Consumers, which they filed with the Central Administrative Court in 2008. The court's decision in 2012 mandated the building's demolition within 60 days, citing its violation of the Building Control Act. Despite an appeal from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), the Supreme Administrative Court upheld this order in October 2014, confirming that both the former Pathumwan district director and Bangkok governor were responsible for executing the demolition within a specified timeframe. However, the structure still stands, untouched by the order, over a decade later. This inaction has been a source of frustration and concern for the local community, which sees the lack of enforcement as a disregard for the rule of law. Recently, a forum by the Thailand Consumers Council (TCC) brought renewed attention to this issue. Dr Songkram highlighted a past incident in Soi Ruamrudee, where a narrow alley impeded firefighters from reaching a hotel engulfed in flames, resulting in the death of a foreign guest. He cautioned that without action, similar tragedies could occur if unregulated construction on narrow roads continues. The call for Governor Chadchart to act is not just about compliance with a court order but also a broader plea for urban safety and adherence to building regulations. As the situation remains unresolved, residents and civic bodies alike await decisive action, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-27

Phuket to use AI for traffic congestion relief amid road projects by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Aomamm Charinkorn Traffic Police in Phuket are looking to implement AI technology to alleviate congestion on the island until the completion of several major road projects. This initiative aims to optimise traffic flow through adaptive traffic control, similar to systems already in use in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349958-phuket-to-use-ai-for-traffic-congestion-relief-amid-road-projects/

Picture courtesy of Aomamm Charinkorn by Bright Choomanee Traffic Police in Phuket are looking to implement AI technology to alleviate congestion on the island until the completion of several major road projects. This initiative aims to optimise traffic flow through adaptive traffic control, similar to systems already in use in Bangkok. Phuket Provincial Police Commander, Major General Sinlert Sukhum, updated Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on the island’s traffic issues during her recent visit. He proposed the introduction of AI technology to manage traffic lights, a system that has shown success in Bangkok by adapting to real-time traffic patterns and improving travel times by 25%. Prime Minister Paetongtarn agreed in principle to bring this technology to Phuket, with plans and budget proposals to be drafted soon. The main challenges cited include an excess of vehicles, insufficient roads, and a lack of coordinated infrastructure planning, according to Phuket Provincial Police Deputy Commander, Police Colonel Phasakon Sonthikun. During peak tourism periods, such as the recent new year’s celebrations, Phuket’s traffic problems have worsened. In areas like Bang Tao in Cherng Talay, residents reported travel times of 1.5 hours for just three kilometres. The Electric Daisy Carnival Thailand 2025 exacerbated congestion, drawing an additional 26,000 visitors to the area. Efforts are underway to alleviate traffic, including deploying additional police officers and advising motorists to avoid certain routes during major events. However, traffic snarls remain a common issue across the island, affecting both tourist and non-tourist areas. Picture courtesy of Phuket OK Phuket traffic Different tactics are being trialled to ease congestion, including the introduction of new U-turn points and exploring one-way systems. In Cherng Talay, ongoing road construction projects are adding to the problem, with local officials urging faster progress. Plans are in place to expand road surfaces and create new routes, though some projects face delays due to land ownership issues. In Patong, congestion is compounded by traffic from surrounding areas and narrow roads. Proposed solutions, such as installing barriers at crosswalks, have faced opposition, leading to delays in addressing the area’s traffic issues. The government’s increased tourism targets for this year suggest that traffic challenges will continue as more visitors arrive in Phuket. The Tourism Authority of Thailand anticipates a 30% increase in revenue, driven by rising tourist numbers, reported The Phuket News. Pol. Col. Phasakon also highlighted the issue of illegal parking exacerbating congestion and urged residents and tourists to adhere to traffic rules. Cooperation from the public is seen as essential to resolving Phuket’s traffic problems. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-27

New Banknotes in Short Supply Ahead of Chinese New Year Picture courtesy: TAT newsroom In the build-up to Chinese New Year, a rush for freshly printed banknotes has led to a notable shortage across Thailand. Despite the rise of digital payments, cash remains king for this cultural celebration. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349953-new-banknotes-in-short-supply-ahead-of-chinese-new-year/

Picture courtesy: TAT newsroom In the build-up to Chinese New Year, a rush for freshly printed banknotes has led to a notable shortage across Thailand. Despite the rise of digital payments, cash remains king for this cultural celebration. Chinese New Year festivities, starting soon, bring a custom of gifting ang pao – red envelopes filled with money, symbolising good fortune. Many Thai-Chinese families hold to tradition by seeking new banknotes for these gifts, believing them to bring prosperity. This year, however, many are finding it difficult to get their hands on new notes. Sukunya Boonchuaylur, a business owner, expressed her frustration. “I’ve been to several banks, but there are just no new notes available,” she remarked. Frustratingly, this bottleneck at the banks is a replay of last year’s struggles. Budsakorn Teerapunyachai, from the Bank of Thailand, assured the public that they’ve allocated new banknotes to meet the festive demand, with 40 billion baht, or approximately 1.1 billion pounds, in banknotes ready for distribution, up from the 29 billion baht set aside last year. Yet, despite these preparations, the shortage persists as distribution to consumers appears to be uneven. The demand for these pristine banknotes has outstripped the supply available at local branches, causing irritation among those adhering to traditional gifting practices. Interestingly, some, like 16-year-old student Wongrawee Suwanmongkol, show a flexible approach. He notes that while he received cash from his grandparents, his sister chose to send him money via a banking app, and he’s happy with either method. This shift towards digital is supported by government statistics showing a steady increase in digital transactions, which have grown by 26.2% annually. Meanwhile, cash withdrawals have decreased by an annual 3.3%, as found in 2023 surveys. Even as digital payments rise, the allure of ang pao remains strong. The Bank of Thailand is keen to ensure the notes circulated remain in good condition, advising against folding or marking them to help maintain their quality over time. This measure also aids in cost-effective cash management, a priority for the central bank. The central bank maintains that this balance between digital and cash transactions is part of its ongoing strategy, particularly as platforms like PromptPay facilitate digital payment growth. With PromptPay accounting for 71.2 million daily transactions, the digital landscape in Thailand is transforming rapidly. However, as the festival approaches, the immediate concern for many remains the simple yet profound act of gifting ang pao in the form they cherish most, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-27

Thai Doctor Attacked by Two Men Outside Clinic in Bangkok Picture courtesy: Daily News A Thai doctor, known as 'Dr Kla', has vowed to take legal action after he was attacked by two assailants wielding a motorcycle helmet. The incident occurred outside his clinic, Mali Clinic Silom 3, on the evening of 25th January. Dr Chanaset Srisukho, the victim, insists he has no prior acquaintance with the attackers and had no previous conflicts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349950-thai-doctor-attacked-by-two-men-outside-clinic-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy: Daily News A Thai doctor, known as 'Dr Kla', has vowed to take legal action after he was attacked by two men wielding a motorcycle helmet. The incident occurred outside his clinic, Mali Clinic Silom 3, on the evening of 25th January. Dr Chanaset Srisukho, the victim, insists he has no prior acquaintance with the attackers and had no previous conflicts. The attack, captured on CCTV and circulated online, shows two men on a motorcycle assaulting Dr Kla outside the clinic, located in Bangkok's Silom district. One attacker, thought to be around 35-40 years old, approached him dressed in camouflage and shorts, while the other wore a red T-shirt and jeans, described as shorter in stature with a receding hairline. They struck Dr Kla on the head, causing injuries, before fleeing towards Sathorn Road, Bangkok. Dr Kla reported the incident to Police Lieutenant Sathit Sadeewong at Thung Maha Mek Police Station. He provided CCTV footage showing the attackers repeatedly circling the area on an orange Honda PCX without a licence plate. Fortunately, his injuries, including cuts and bruises to the head, face, and limbs, did not require stitches. Picture courtesy: Daily News Police Colonel Phanom Chuathong stated that, during questioning, Dr Kla recounted one attacker accusing him of insulting his father, though Dr Kla denies any knowledge of the claim or prior disputes. The police are actively investigating, using the CCTV evidence to pursue the perpetrators. Dr Kla is committed to seeing the case through legally and has submitted medical reports to support his case reported Daily News. Pictures courtesy: Daily News -- 2025-01-27

Strict 7-Day Deadline for Solving Illegal Immigration Crisis Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thailand's law enforcement is ramping up efforts to curb illegal immigration by implementing seven stringent measures, aiming for tangible results within seven days. This comes directly from the Chief of Police, who warns that any official found complicit or negligent will face serious consequences. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349948-strict-7-day-deadline-for-solving-illegal-immigration-crisis/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thailand's law enforcement is ramping up efforts to curb illegal immigration by implementing seven stringent measures, aiming for tangible results within seven days. This comes directly from the Chief of Police, who warns that any official found complicit or negligent will face serious consequences. Effective immediately, the Royal Thai Police are intensifying their actions against illegal immigrants, unlawful gangs, and cross-border crimes. General Kitirat Phanpet, Thailand National Police Chief, has outlined a comprehensive strategy to address these issues efficiently. The measures include enhanced screening processes before individuals enter the country, increased security checks at airports and border crossings, and more robust surveillance at strategic checkpoints. Authorities will also scrutinise accommodation establishments and popular tourist destinations for illegal activities and conduct proactive inspections of transport stations and rest areas. In response to these enhanced security protocols, from 20th to 24th January, authorities have already rejected 10 high-risk individuals at airports and denied 47 requests for extended stays in Tak province. Additionally, 92 cases of visa overstays were addressed, involving nationals from countries such as China and Indonesia. The crackdown continues with inspections and arrests in various border areas, including the capture of Myanmar nationals caught illegally crossing the Moei River. By employing advanced technology and establishing rigorous patrol routines along all border regions, the police are determined to maintain the country's security standards for tourists and residents alike. Cooperation with specialised crime centres will strengthen this initiative, ensuring round-the-clock monitoring and seamless international collaboration to combat human trafficking and other illegal activities. General Kitirat has made it clear that any officer failing in their duty or implicated in corrupt practices will face administrative, disciplinary, and criminal actions. The message is unequivocal: the time for strict enforcement is now, and results are expected within the week, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-01-27

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has reaffirmed his commitment to the digital wallet scheme, aiming to complete the latest instalments by the end of April, a timeline poised for the third phase of handouts. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to invigorate Thailand's economy. While campaigning in Si Sa Ket for Wiwatchai Hotrawaisaya, the Pheu Thai candidate for the Chief of the Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO), Thaksin detailed the coalition's plans at Wat Prang Ku School, emphasising the digital wallet scheme's role in economic stimulation. The scheme promises direct cash injections, with the Prime Minister's father confirming that 10,000 baht payments will be distributed, starting with those over 60 years old on Monday, followed by the 16-60 age group in March and April. Thaksin underscored the necessity of these handouts as a stimulus strategy, affirming that the government's promises will be fulfilled. Beyond economic measures, Thaksin highlighted education reform as a crucial focus. He proposed using artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance educational systems nationwide. He also suggested that revenue from legalised online gambling could finance improved learning resources, including hiring reputable expatriate teachers and integrating technology into schools. "This can be as simple as using mobile phones to expand children's perspectives, much like other countries do," Thaksin mentioned, illustrating his vision for modernised education. Addressing the broader agenda, Thaksin pointed to economic recovery as the government's main objective, with plans to bolster national income in its first two terms should the party secure victory again in 2027. Reflecting on past challenges, Thaksin said, "In 2001, my administration dealt with an economic crisis affecting all societal levels. This current situation, with grassroots people in debt and struggling, demands urgent resolution. It's imperative I contribute to solving these issues." Reassuringly, he shared conversations with his daughter, the current Prime Minister, detailing an action plan: "This year, we're committed to improving the economy and reducing or entirely eradicating personal debts. By the next year, we want individuals financially comfortable, akin to prosperity under my previous leadership." Confident in Pheu Thai's prospects, Thaksin believes the party's economic strategies will yield prosperity and wealth reminiscent of his tenure as Prime Minister, aligning with his vision of improved national wellbeing and financial stability, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-27

Thaksin Prioritises Handouts to Boost Economy Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has reaffirmed his commitment to the digital wallet scheme, aiming to complete the latest instalments by the end of April, a timeline poised for the third phase of handouts. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to invigorate Thailand's economy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349941-thaksin-prioritises-handouts-to-boost-economy/

Thailand's Air Pollution Crisis Hits ASEAN's Collaborative Agenda A thick layer of smog covers central Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Air pollution in Thailand has reached critical levels, prompting Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to elevate the issue from a national concern to a matter requiring ASEAN-wide cooperation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349940-thailands-air-pollution-crisis-hits-aseans-collaborative-agenda/

Passengers exit a station on Bangkok's elevated Skytrain, in Bangkok, Thailand, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Jerry Harmer) In Bangkok, the government's recent decision to offer free public transportation has ignited a heated debate. Designed to address the city's escalating haze problem, this initiative is provoked by alarming dust pollution levels as particulate matter (PM2.5) reaches troubling concentrations. Yet, critics argue that the plan merely scratches the surface of a far deeper issue. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced on Friday that Bangkok's transport services, including buses and electric trains, would be made free for a week, starting immediately on Saturday. This move aims to reduce vehicular emissions, a significant contributor to PM2.5 pollution, by encouraging residents to shift from private vehicles to public transport. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit stated that approximately 140 million baht (around £3.2 million) from the central budget would be allocated to compensate operators for the lost revenue during this period. Collaborations with Bangkok Transit System Plc, Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company, and the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority ensure that residents can avail these services without charge. Nonetheless, the plan has faced notable resistance. Many argue it is an inadequate solution to the pollution problem and a misallocation of taxpayer money. Criticism is widespread on social platforms, with politicians and environmentalists voicing their concerns. Korrawee Prissananantakul, a Bhumjaithai MP from Ang Thong, voiced scepticism about the effectiveness of this initiative. "This policy can only succeed if car owners truly switch to public transport," he remarked. He questioned whether such a behavioural shift is realistic, describing it as a complex challenge. Environmental experts echo this sentiment. Jessada Denduangboripant, from Chulalongkorn University's Faculty of Science, labelled the 140-million-baht expenditure as wasteful. He suggested a more impactful use of these funds might involve purchasing air purifiers for schools suffering from the haze. A view of Bangkok's elevated Skytrain line, in Bangkok, Thailand, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Jerry Harmer) Thon Thamrongnawasawat, another environmental expert, criticised the government's slow response. He noted that despite advance warnings, actions only materialised after pollution spikes became severe, urging for faster and more proactive measures. There have, however, been tangible outcomes from the initiative. According to Pichet Kunadhamraks, director-general of the Department of Rail Transport, Saturday saw a notable increase in public transport usage: 1,634,446 used the free electric train services, marking a 45.29% rise compared to previous Saturdays. With Bangkok's haze expected to persist, the debate continues on whether this free transport measure is a timely intervention or a costly distraction from more sustainable solutions. As the situation unfolds, both the effectiveness of the initiative in reducing pollution and its financial viability remain subjects of public scrutiny, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-27

Bangkok's Free Transport Initiative Sparks Criticism Amidst Haze Crisis Passengers exit a station on Bangkok's elevated Skytrain, in Bangkok, Thailand, Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025. (AP Photo/Jerry Harmer) In Bangkok, the government's recent decision to offer free public transportation has ignited a heated debate. Designed to address the city's escalating haze problem, this initiative is provoked by alarming dust pollution levels as particulate matter (PM2.5) reaches troubling concentrations. Yet, critics argue that the plan merely scratches the surface of a far deeper issue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349938-bangkoks-free-transport-initiative-sparks-criticism-amidst-haze-crisis/

Thai Officers Suspended in Chinese Abduction for Ransom Case Picture courtesy: Matichon The Royal Thai Police have suspended several officers following their involvement in the abduction and extortion of seven Chinese nationals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349942-thai-officers-suspended-in-chinese-abduction-for-ransom-case/

Picture courtesy: Matichon The Royal Thai Police have suspended several officers following their involvement in the abduction and extortion of seven Chinese nationals. The incident came to light when reports emerged that members of the Special Branch, Border Patrol Police, and paramilitary rangers allegedly kidnapped the group and demanded a ransom of 2 million baht. The victims were held at Irene Resort in Ubon Ratchathani, where authorities later arrested eight suspects. Among them were three police officers, one ranger, and several civilians, including a Myanmar national. The police confiscated four vehicles used in the crime, including two Toyota Hilux trucks. The ordeal began on 23rd January, with one of the victims managing to secretly contact a friend in Laos via mobile phone, alerting them to their location. This information was then relayed to Thai police, prompting a rescue operation. The suspects allegedly used a translation app to intimidate the victims into paying a reduced ransom of 500,000 baht each. In the end, 3 million baht was exchanged for their release. The National Police Chief, Pol. Gen. Kittirat Panpetch, has ordered strict legal and disciplinary action against those involved, with further instructions for their immediate dismissal, reported Matichon. -- 2025-01-27

A thick layer of smog covers central Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) Air pollution in Thailand has reached critical levels, prompting Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to elevate the issue from a national concern to a matter requiring ASEAN-wide cooperation. This move aims to tackle the worsening pollution crisis, characterised by hazardous PM2.5 levels, which now demands a regionally coordinated response. The Prime Minister, fresh from her return from the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, emphasized the escalating problem as a cross-border issue affecting multiple nations. She has tasked Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa with conducting discussions with ASEAN counterparts to address this environmental challenge under existing regional frameworks. Central to this cooperation are efforts to curtail agricultural burning—a significant contributor to PM2.5 pollution—in Thailand and its neighbouring countries. Thai authorities have already initiated preventive measures, including penalties for agricultural burning, since November last year. However, the scale of the problem necessitates broader regional collaboration. Ms. Paetongtarn reiterated that effective mitigation demands collective responsibility from ASEAN nations, highlighting the necessity for a united front to generate significant impact against pollution. To combat immediate pollution levels, the Thai government is implementing short-term relief efforts alongside mid- and long-term strategies. Consideration is being given to nationwide work-from-home policies, aimed at reducing traffic-related emissions. The Prime Minister expressed openness to this approach, suggesting that remote work could play a vital role in lessening pollution without hindering business operations. Responding to criticism over her absence during the pollution crisis, Ms. Paetongtarn defended her participation at the WEF, stating that preparations to address PM2.5 issues were established prior to her departure. She maintained that the timing of the forum was beyond her control and stressed the comprehensive efforts in place to manage the crisis. On her return, Ms. Paetongtarn directed the National Disaster Management Command Headquarters to adopt strategies used successfully in flood disaster mitigation last year, thus reinforcing air quality monitoring and crisis response initiatives. Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has formed a PM2.5 combat committee comprised of high-level officials. This team meets daily to strategize pollution management, drawing on experiences from previous disaster responses. Despite these efforts, Bangkok and surrounding areas struggle with high pollution levels. Recent data identified 23 areas as “red zones” due to unsafe PM2.5 levels, with readings surpassing the safety threshold of 37.5 µg/m³, reaching up to 111 µg/m³ in some areas. The crisis highlights the urgency for Thailand and its ASEAN neighbours to foster cooperative solutions, tackling pollution sources and safeguarding public health on a regional scale, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-27

Image composite: ASEAN NOW A comprehensive survey conducted by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) reveals a decided public disapproval of the Thai government's plans to establish a casino-entertainment complex and legalise online gambling. The telephone-based NIDA Poll, carried out over January 20-21, 2023, captured the views of 1,310 adults from diverse educational, income, and occupational backgrounds nationwide. When respondents were queried about the proposal for an integrated entertainment complex that would feature a casino, the findings were as follows: - 59.19% expressed disapproval of both the complex and casino - 28.93% were in favour of both the complex and casino - 8.63% supported the complex but opposed the casino - 1.60% supported the casino only - 1.68% refrained from commenting Regarding the legalisation of online gambling, the poll disclosed: - 58.32% outright rejected the idea - 19.92% were strongly in favour - 11.45% moderately supported the move - 10.31% were moderately opposed On the topic of public referendums related to these issues, respondents’ views were: - 51.07% opposed conducting referendums for both the casino complex and online gambling legislation - 37.86% supported holding referendums for both matters - 5.11% favoured a referendum only for the casino-entertainment complex - 3.89% supported a referendum solely on online betting legalisation - 1.99% offered no opinion - 0.08% did not respond These findings highlight significant public concern over the social and economic implications of such proposals. Despite arguments in favour of potential economic gains, such as increased tourism revenue and new job creation, possibly reaching figures in the billions of Thai Baht, the risks linked to potential gambling addiction and moral objections weigh heavily on public opinion. As such, the survey underscores the complex dynamics the Thai government must navigate in pursuing these proposals. Given the polarised opinions, policymakers must carefully consider the public's concerns, possibly by engaging in broader discussions and adopting a strategy that balances potential economic benefits with the social well-being of Thailand's citizens, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-27