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Thai Singer 'Tik Shiro' Says B24m Demand Is Too Much for Crash Settlement Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In a tragic aftermath of a drink-driving incident, Thai rock singer Manaswin "Tik Shiro" Nuntasane has proposed a settlement offer of 4-5 million baht to the family of the two victims killed in a fatal road crash. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349726-thai-singer-tik-shiro-says-b24m-demand-is-too-much-for-crash-settlement/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In a tragic aftermath of a drink-driving incident, Thai rock singer Manaswin "Tik Shiro" Nuntasane has proposed a settlement offer of 4-5 million baht to the family of the two victims killed in a fatal road crash. The accident, which took place last October in Bangkok, has left the victims' family demanding 24 million baht, a figure they consider befitting the loss of both their children. Tik Shiro, a well-known musician aged 63, was involved in a crash on October 10 when his vehicle collided with a motorcycle carrying siblings Thianporn, 28, and Chakkrapat Siwapornpitak, 21. The accident occurred on a bridge over Theparak Road in Bangkok's Sai Mai district. Tragically, Thianporn was pronounced dead on the scene, while Chakkrapat, who sustained severe injuries, succumbed to them on January 18 after more than two months of hospitalisation. Mr Jeerawat Siwapornpitak, the bereaved father, is steadfast in his appeal for a reevaluation of the offered compensation. The demand arises from the compounded grief of losing two children within three months, an unbearable pain he seeks recognition for in the proposed settlement. Tik Shiro, in response to the family's anguish, expressed his willingness to not only compensate financially but also to dedicate a song to honour the lost siblings. Proceeds from this tribute would be directed to the family's benefit. In an effort to clarify his stance, the singer engaged the media to articulate his perspective on the accident's aftermath, reassuring that his commitment has remained constant. Ae, Tik Shiro's sister-in-law, affirmed that discussions with the victims' family over compensation have been ongoing since last year, with initial talks resulting in financial support amounting to 100,000 baht and later, additional contributions amounting to 75,530 baht for funeral expenses. Moreover, the singer had offered a piece of land valued at 4-5 million baht in Nakhon Ratchasima as part of his compensation package. Despite these gestures, the compensation demanded by the victims' family stands significantly higher, set at 24 million baht as per the latest negotiations dated January 13. The legal landscape for Tik Shiro has shifted, as authorities have now pressed a new charge for drink-driving causing deaths, a serious accusation carrying severe penalties under Thai law, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-24

Thailand Introduces Online TM6 as Tourism Fee Faces Delays Picture courtesy: Facebook TAT news In a significant move poised to streamline the entry process for visitors, Thailand is set to launch an online TM6 immigration form from May 1. This development arises as the Ministry of Tourism and Sports gears up to promote the new digital system, Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349720-thailand-introduces-online-tm6-as-tourism-fee-faces-delays/

Picture courtesy: Facebook TAT news In a significant move poised to streamline the entry process for visitors, Thailand is set to launch an online TM6 immigration form from May 1. This development arises as the Ministry of Tourism and Sports gears up to promote the new digital system, which is expected to replace the traditional paper-based forms previously suspended by the cabinet in April 2024. However, the much-discussed 300-baht tourism fee may see delays, amid governmental hesitance to enforce it this year. The digital TM6 form is part of Thailand's efforts to enhance the visitor experience and bolster tourist tracking for safety, amid ongoing concerns about the country serving as a conduit for illicit activities. Natthriya Thaweevong, permanent secretary of the ministry, highlighted that this online system could mitigate safety concerns by improving tourist oversight. In preparation for this change, the ministry has engaged the Immigration Bureau to showcase the online system to its staff, ensuring a smooth transition and understanding across departments. Additionally, a pivotal meeting is slated for January 31, bringing together key stakeholders, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tourism Authority of Thailand, airlines, and the hospitality sector. The goal is to familiarise these parties with the new online form and facilitate communication with arriving foreigners. Mongkon Wimonrat, deputy permanent secretary, emphasised the government’s focus on the digital TM6 to prevent confusion, before considering other entry screening measures. The online system will be mandatory for all foreign arrivals, whether they enter by air, land, or sea, and registration will be free of charge. Anticipation surrounds the cabinet's expected approval next month, which will give concerned parties ample time to prepare. However, as noted by an anonymous insider from the ministry, the introduction of the online TM6 might overshadow the implementation of the proposed tourism fee, indicating a probable postponement. Given the complexities of smoothly integrating the TM6 system and the country's current entanglements with security issues, there is a belief that this is not the optimal moment to introduce additional fees or entry requirements. The government appears to prioritise ensuring the new process runs without hitches before revisiting the proposed tourism fee and potentially other entry measures similar to an electronic travel authorisation, which has found success in other regions. This transition marks a pivotal step in Thailand's efforts to modernise its immigration processes, aiming to offer a seamless experience for international visitors while maintaining robust security measures, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-24

Three Orangutans Seized in Thailand's Wildlife Smuggling Bust File photo for reference only In a dramatic wildlife trafficking bust, three endangered orangutans were intercepted in Chumphon’s Mueang district, Thailand, on their covert journey to Bangkok. The animals, housed in large baskets, were discovered in a pickup truck during a police checkpoint inspection, with assistance from the US Fish & Wildlife Service. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349703-three-orangutans-seized-in-thailands-wildlife-smuggling-bust/

Mammoth madness: Runaway elephant sparks chaos in Phuket By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Cherng Talay Police via The Phuket News Panic swept through Cherng Talay in Phuket this morning as an escaped elephant roamed the village streets, prompting an urgent response from police and handlers. The drama began at around 10am when the elephant bolted from its camp, heading towards Cherng Talay Wittayakom School, with a scaffolding pole tangled around its neck. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349694-mammoth-madness-runaway-elephant-sparks-chaos-in-phuket/

Flames from DIY Stove Injure Four Students in Phetchabun Picture courtesy: MGR online In Phetchabun, four male secondary school students sustained injuries from flames emitted by a self-made experimental stove, not an oil drum explosion as initially feared. The incident occurred at Na Chaliang Pittayakom School in Nong Phai district, as confirmed by a teacher present at the scene. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349677-flames-from-diy-stove-injure-four-students-in-phetchabun/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 24 January 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1349688-thailand-live-friday-24-january-2025/

File photo for reference only. British tourist busted in Patong for cocaine possession By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A 20 year old British man was arrested on Tuesday night, January 21, in Patong for possession of cocaine, as police crack down on drug-related offences in Phuket’s popular tourist hotspots. The arrest occurred near Yona Pier on Thawewong Road, commonly known as the Beach Road, around 10.45pm. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349679-british-tourist-busted-in-patong-for-cocaine-possession/

Flames from DIY Stove Injure Four Students in Phetchabun Picture courtesy: MGR online In Phetchabun, four male secondary school students sustained injuries from flames emitted by a self-made experimental stove, not an oil drum explosion as initially feared. The incident occurred at Na Chaliang Pittayakom School in Nong Phai district, as confirmed by a teacher present at the scene. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349677-flames-from-diy-stove-injure-four-students-in-phetchabun/

Picture courtesy: MGR online In Phetchabun, four male secondary school students sustained injuries from flames emitted by a self-made experimental stove, not an oil drum explosion as initially feared. The incident occurred at Na Chaliang Pittayakom School in Nong Phai district, as confirmed by a teacher present at the scene. The accident happened during a class when a teacher was demonstrating how to use a DIY stove designed for sustainable development lessons. The stove, crafted over a year ago, was running low on fuel, prompting the teacher to refill it with oil. It appears that the leftover gasoline fumes in an old fuel canister sparked, leading to a burst of flames. Local news shared photos of the injured students, with two having facial injuries covered with bandages. There was initial confusion as reports circulated that a mix of petrol and engine oil had exploded, causing burns to four students. Concerned parents urged the school for clarification amidst fears of long-lasting scars. Teacher Ruekchai Limrangsarit clarified that the fire was a result of a mishap during the use of the stove, which was intended to demonstrate principles of sufficiency economy. As a safety measure, burnt areas were covered to prevent infection, and the school has promised a thorough investigation. The school’s director, Mrs. Supichaya Lekkdaeng, confirmed that medical care is being arranged for the injured students, who are all from Year 8. Efforts are underway to ensure their wounds are treated appropriately and healing progresses smoothly. The school is committed to revisiting safety protocols to prevent such incidents in the future, reported MGR online. -- 2025-01-23

UPDATE: Thai monk’s death linked to congenital disease, not dog attack Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349674-thai-monk’s-death-linked-to-congenital-disease-not-dog-attack/

Thai Olympic Boxing Gold Winner Jailed for Attempted Sexual Assault Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's celebrated Olympic hero, Somluck Kamsing, has been sentenced to over three years in prison for his involvement in an attempted rape case of a teenage girl. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349673-thai-olympic-boxing-gold-winner-jailed-for-attempted-sexual-assault/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's celebrated Olympic hero, Somluck Kamsing, has been sentenced to over three years in prison for his involvement in an attempted rape case of a teenage girl. Once hailed as Thailand's first Olympic gold medallist, Somluck now finds himself embroiled in legal battles following his conviction at Khon Kaen provincial court, adding a grim chapter to his storied life. The court's decision came with grave accusations. Somluck, now 52, was embroiled in a legal case after a 17-year-old girl accused him of attempted rape following an encounter in December 2023. The incident reportedly began at a night spot in Khon Kaen, northwest Thailand, and escalated in a local hotel room. The court found the teenager's account credible, noting evidence of physical bruising consistent with her claims. Despite Somluck's defence—where he claimed a misunderstanding, alleging consensual interaction—the court was unmoved. It rejected his explanation, highlighting the inadequate basis for any consensual agreement, given the victim's age and lack of consent. Further undermining his defence, the court noted the absence of any monetary exchange, thus dismissing any notion of intended prostitution. The ruling resulted in a sentence of three years, one month, and 10 days in prison. However, Somluck remains free for now, the court having granted him bail against a bond of 300,000 Thai Bah, an amount roughly equivalent to £6,500. Furthermore, he was ordered to compensate the victim 120,000 Baht (£2,600) and an additional 50,000 Baht (£1,080) to her family. Somluck's legal representative, Itthisak Atthakornwikrom, has announced plans to appeal, underscoring that the case might hold more nuances yet to be judicially examined. Somluck's trajectory from national glory to downfall paints a complex portrait of a once-revered athlete. Having clinched the gold medal in men’s featherweight boxing at the 1996 Atlanta Summer Olympics, he ascended as a national icon. Post-retirement, his journey took less foreseeable turns, including a bankruptcy declaration in 2018 due to a failed business venture, with debts amounting to 4 million Baht (£86,600). As he fights to redeem his deteriorating reputation, Somluck is reportedly focusing on his secondary career in Thai cinema and television, as well as steering clear of insecure investments, following guidance and assistance from the Thailand Boxing Association in overcoming past financial hurdles. The case continues to capture public attention in Thailand as the nation grapples with the disconcerting transformation of one of its sports icons into a polarising figure in the judiciary limelight, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-23

Thai police arrest drug suspect after tense standoff in Nakhon Nayok by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Yesterday, January 22, police from the Ongkharak district in Nakhon Nayok collaborated with officers from Wang Noi district in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya to apprehend a 35 year old drug suspect, Manop “M” Naramrum. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349651-thai-police-arrest-drug-suspect-after-tense-standoff-in-nakhon-nayok/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Bright Choomanee Yesterday, January 22, police from the Ongkharak district in Nakhon Nayok collaborated with officers from Wang Noi district in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya to apprehend a 35 year old drug suspect, Manop “M” Naramrum. Manop, wanted on charges related to conspiracy to commit drug offences, was hiding in a dormitory in Phayom subdistrict. During the operation, the suspect fired two shots, narrowly missing officers, before eventually surrendering following a request to speak with his mother. Police surrounded the dormitory and discovered that Manop was on the second floor. As they called for him to open the door, a gunshot rang out, with the bullet lodging in the door. Despite this, police continued negotiations, but M did not respond and fired another shot. After an hour of negotiations, Manop shouted that he would surrender. He opened the door with his wife by his side and placed his firearm on the floor, allowing police to arrest him without further incident. The suspect was taken to the Wang Noi police station for questioning. Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police confiscated a Smith & Wesson .32 calibre revolver, six .32 calibre bullets, ten additional .32 calibre bullets, one .357 calibre bullet, two empty shells, and a plastic bag with a seal. During questioning, Manop explained that he had panicked after hearing voices outside his door, believing it was someone demanding water bill payments. In fear, he fired once, requesting to consult his mother. After speaking with family members, who advised him to surrender, he fired another shot in distress. Manop claimed he was unaware of the arrest warrant against him and eventually decided to give himself up, reassured that his family could visit him in prison. Police charged him with attempted murder of an officer, resisting arrest, possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition, discharging a firearm in a populated area, and methamphetamine use. The Ongkharak police were informed to process the arrest warrant, reported KhaoSod. Wang Noi police believe that sacred objects carried by officers, including a protective cloth from Wat San Chao in Pathum Thani and amulets from Wat Takien Cave in Chumphon, shielded them from harm during the operation. These items had been distributed by former Provincial Police Region 1 Commander Police Lieutenant General Jirasan Kaewsang-ek in April 2024. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-23

Thailand's First Equal Marriage: A Step Towards a Better World Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Bangkok celebrated its first official same-sex marriage under the new Marriage Equality law, marking a significant milestone in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in Thailand. The event was part of the "Marriage Equality Day," held at Paragon Hall, Siam Paragon, and marked the beginning of nationwide marriage registrations for LGBTQ+ couples. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349640-thailands-first-equal-marriage-a-step-towards-a-better-world/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Bangkok celebrated its first official same-sex marriage under the new Marriage Equality law, marking a significant milestone in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in Thailand. The event was part of the "Marriage Equality Day," held at Paragon Hall, Siam Paragon, and marked the beginning of nationwide marriage registrations for LGBTQ+ couples. The ceremony was a collaborative effort between various governmental and private organisations, including the Foundation for Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Rights and Justice, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and several ministries, alongside private firms like Siam Piwat and Match Growould. At 8:00 am, the official registration process began, and the first couple to tie the knot was Ploynaphat Jirasukhon, 33, and Kwanporn Kongphet, 32. The couple, who have been together for 17 years since their school days, expressed their joy at being the pioneers of this historic occasion. They plan to advocate further for complete equality, particularly in child custody rights and official name prefixes, which remain incomplete under current laws. The process, taking only about ten minutes, was streamlined and joyful, with a steady flow of couples arriving to register their marriages. Many were accompanied by family and friends who participated as witnesses, creating a celebratory atmosphere. Ploynaphat and Kwanporn plan to hold a wedding ceremony to celebrate their marriage and subsequently address joint property rights, ensuring equal ownership. They see this breakthrough as a robust step towards greater equality in Thailand and hold hope that such progress will contribute to making the world a better place, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-01-23

€100,000 reward offered in Dutchman’s mysterious death in Phuket by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Peter R. de Vries Foundation via The Phuket News The chilling mystery surrounding the death of Dutch national Stephan Buczynski in Phuket 12 years ago has taken a dramatic turn, as the Peter R. de Vries Foundation announced a €100,000 reward (around 3.5 million baht) for any information leading to justice. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349637-€100000-reward-offered-in-dutchman’s-mysterious-death-in-phuket/

Photo courtesy of Peter R. de Vries Foundation via The Phuket News by Puntid Tantivangphaisal The chilling mystery surrounding the death of Dutch national Stephan Buczynski in Phuket 12 years ago has taken a dramatic turn, as the Peter R. de Vries Foundation announced a €100,000 reward (around 3.5 million baht) for any information leading to justice. Buczynski, only 26 years old at the time, was found dead in the waters off Patong Beach on January 13, 2013. His death was ruled a suicide by Thai police, but his family has fiercely disputed the conclusion, citing evidence suggesting foul play. The foundation is now appealing to witnesses in Thailand to come forward. The case is riddled with disturbing details. Buczynski had travelled to Thailand with his business partner, Sylvano, but their trip was far from smooth. Early on, a violent confrontation with an Australian tourist landed Buczynski in hospital for a week. Just a day after being discharged, he was found dead, his body bearing injuries inconsistent with a suicide, including a fractured skull and broken ankle. Adding to the family’s doubts, conflicting reports about Buczynski’s blood alcohol level and the cause of death—drowning or asphyxiation—have further muddied the waters. A Dutch autopsy later revealed more injuries than initially reported. Despite the family’s trip to Phuket in 2015 and their appearance on the investigative TV show Murder in Foreign Countries, the Thai police offered little cooperation, citing lost case files. The Peter R. de Vries Foundation, named after the late Dutch crime journalist, is relentless in its pursuit of justice. Foundation director Kelly de Vries stated, “Even the smallest tip can make a difference.” The organisation has launched a social media campaign featuring emotional video messages from Buczynski’s family, urging anyone with information to speak out, reported The Phuket News. Witnesses are encouraged to contact the foundation anonymously via [email protected]. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai), or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress, or depression. Seek help. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-23

Chaos Erupts in Thailand as 'Jagat Coin Hunt' Sparks Trespassing Risks Picture courtesy: ThaiPBS Thailand has recently become embroiled in the 'Jagat Coin Hunt' craze, a virtual treasure hunt game from Indonesia that has enticed players into real-world locations in search of digital coins. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349627-chaos-erupts-in-thailand-as-jagat-coin-hunt-sparks-trespassing-risks/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand has recently become embroiled in the 'Jagat Coin Hunt' craze, a virtual treasure hunt game from Indonesia that has enticed players into real-world locations in search of digital coins. Authorities across major provinces, including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Pattaya, have issued warnings to gamers, cautioning that the hunt for Jagat coins could inadvertently lead to unlawful trespassing on private property. The Cybercrime Investigation Bureau, led by Pol Lt-Gen Trairong Phiwpan, has launched an investigation to ensure the game complies with Thai laws, amid concerns that its coin hunt feature might pose risks to life and property. The game lures players with attractive monetary rewards, offering between 500 to 2,000 baht for bronze coins, 20,000 baht for silver, and up to 200,000 baht for gold. Picture courtesy: ThaiPBS This promise of profit has driven some players to overstep boundaries, with incidents reported in Phuket where police temporarily detained two teenagers for trespassing during their hunt. They were released without charges, but authorities caution that future incidents could incur legal repercussions. Thai law stipulates that trespassing can lead to penalties of up to five years in prison and fines not exceeding 100,000 baht. In addition to privacy concerns, the game has prompted chaos in public spaces. In Chonburi, coin seekers disrupted a construction site, while in Chiang Mai, there were reports of trespassing on private land. Chonburi. Picture courtesy: ThaiPBS Originally gaining popularity on social media platforms like TikTok in Indonesia, Jagat has drawn comparisons to Pokémon Go due to its augmented reality gameplay. Despite similar safety concerns, its economic appeal is undeniable, capturing attention by offering potential financial rewards. The Jakarta Post noted recent disturbances at Indonesia’s Gelora Bung Karno Sports Complex, where coin hunters caused notable damage. In response, the complex management has requested the removal of virtual coin locations from their premises. As the Jagat Coin Hunt continues to spread, Thai officials urge participants to exercise caution and respect for private and public property, reported ThaiPBS. -- 2025-01-23

Thai Government and Opposition Clash Over PM2.5 Pollution Response Commuters wear face masks to protect themselves from air pollution at a skytrain station in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) As the PM2.5 pollution crisis intensifies, the Thai government and opposition parties are engaged in a public dispute over environmental priorities, exacerbated by the expected continuation of hazardous smog conditions until Friday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349622-thai-government-and-opposition-clash-over-pm25-pollution-response/

Commuters wear face masks to protect themselves from air pollution at a skytrain station in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2025. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) As the PM2.5 pollution crisis intensifies, the Thai government and opposition parties are engaged in a public dispute over environmental priorities, exacerbated by the expected continuation of hazardous smog conditions until Friday. Opposition leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut took to Facebook to criticise Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. In a biting remark, he suggested the PM should ensure Thai citizens have the chance to breathe cleaner air before embarking on international travels, such as the current trip to Davos, Switzerland for the World Economic Forum. Natthaphong, leader of the People's Party (PP), condemned the government's sluggish approach to addressing PM2.5 pollution. He noted that a government initiative to incentivise sugar cane farmers to adopt non-burning harvest methods had not progressed to cabinet approval. Consequently, many farmers have continued the cheaper practice of burning, contributing further to air pollution. Critics, including Natthaphong, argue the government should have earlier communicated clearer alternatives to biomass burning, emphasising the importance of action plans with concrete implementations. In response, government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub defended the Prime Minister's participation at the World Economic Forum, underscoring its role in attracting foreign investment. He dismissed opposition criticisms as lacking decorum and political maturity. As pollution levels rise, especially in Bangkok, the city's governor, Chadchart Sittipunt, announced emergency measures, including the suspension of onsite classes for 103 schools in favour of remote learning. He attributed worsening air quality to poor ventilation and increased emissions due to inner-city roadworks. Starting Thursday, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration will enforce a ban on trucks entering designated low-emission zones without prior registration. AI-equipped security cameras will assist in monitoring compliance, with violators facing potential legal action, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-23

Anutin Orders Stricter Measures to Curb Burning and Reduce PM 2.5 Anutin Charnvirakul. File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand’s Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul mandated provincial governors and district officers nationwide to enforce strict measures against burning activities to reduce PM2.5 pollution. Offenders will face legal consequences. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349619-anutin-orders-stricter-measures-to-curb-burning-and-reduce-pm-25/