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Photo via Facebook/ Pattaya One News A frustrated cannabis shop owner on Koh Pha Ngan has accused local police of ignoring a theft involving two foreign customers. Jariya Kamonrat, who owns Monkey’s Dispensary on the island, took to social media to seek assistance after allegedly receiving insufficient support from the police. The incident, which occurred on 26th February, was captured on CCTV cameras. The footage shows two foreigners, both estimated to be around 25 years old, entering the store. After selecting and paying for cannabis products, the pair left. However, Jariya later noticed that a jar of cannabis flowers, valued at over 6,000 baht, was missing. Upon reviewing the footage, it became evident that one of the men, wearing a white shirt, had discreetly pocketed the jar while Jariya was distracted at the counter. His accomplice, dressed in blue, had cleverly engaged her in conversation during the act. Jariya promptly reported the theft to the Koh Pha Ngan Police Station, providing them with the crucial CCTV evidence. However, her recent follow-up with the police left her disappointed. Despite the evidence at hand, officers reportedly responded dismissively, with one officer allegedly saying, “Where do you want us to arrest the suspects? You don’t even have their names.” Disheartened by the response, Jariya has resolved to take matters into her own hands. She has reached out to the local community through a Facebook group, requesting any information about the two individuals. Jariya has even offered a reward for tips leading to their identification and arrest. The incident has sparked wider discussions about the police's response to such crimes involving tourists. This is not the first cannabis-related theft to hit headlines in Thailand. In another incident, an Irish national was apprehended after breaking into a cannabis shop in Pattaya and consuming products until he fell unconscious. Additionally, two foreign suspects remain at large following a similar theft from a cannabis shop in Krabi earlier in the year. These events have heightened concerns among local shop owners about security and the enforcement of laws pertaining to cannabis, especially as Thailand's cannabis market continues to attract both tourists and entrepreneurs. As Jariya continues her search for justice, her story highlights the challenges that local businesses may face in seeking accountability for crimes involving foreign nationals, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Gambling Site Bust: Police Arrest Fengshui Master and 12 Others Picture courtesy of KhaoSod English Royal Thai Police have unveiled a major gambling operation, arresting 13 individuals linked to an illicit betting website accused of generating an eye-popping 1.6 billion baht annually. Among those apprehended is the well-known fengshui guru, Thanawan Jiracharoenwes, known as "Tili." Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353478-gambling-site-bust-police-arrest-fengshui-master-and-12-others/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod English Royal Thai Police have unveiled a major gambling operation, arresting 13 individuals linked to an illicit betting website accused of generating an eye-popping 1.6 billion baht annually. Among those apprehended is the well-known fengshui guru, Thanawan Jiracharoenwes, known as "Tili." A tale of deceit, Thanawan, aged 43, had earlier been apprehended for allegedly defrauding 117 people out of a staggering 130 million baht. His controversial trial continues in the Criminal Court, capturing public attention. Investigations have uncovered that a chunk of his alleged fraud proceeds, around 90 million baht, was funnelled into the gambling site SBOBET, adding another layer to the complex saga. The wheels of justice turned swiftly following a two-month investigation. On Sunday, police closed in on Bangkok and Pathum Thani, arresting 58-year-old Thanaphat along with his 12 accomplices. The raids also resulted in the seizure of around 20 million baht in assets believed to have been illicitly obtained, as reported by Bangkok News. The gambling network, according to the Royal Thai Police, had been operational for over a decade, with an annual turnover exceeding 1.6 billion baht. Authorities are keen on tracing the misappropriated funds from Thanawan's victims, hinting at possible restitution through legal avenues. In related developments, discussions concerning the proposed casino-entertainment complex are underway. According to a government source, Thai citizens wishing to gamble will need to meet financial criteria, including maintaining a fixed deposit account with at least 50 million baht for six months. This condition is part of Section 65 of the proposed Entertainment Complex Bill, currently under review by the Council of State. The Cabinet is slated to discuss the Bill on March 11. As this gripping story unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the expansive reach of organised gambling networks and the complexities involved in bringing those responsible to justice. Keep an eye on this saga as more revelations are expected to emerge in the coming days, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Thailand Investigates Illegal Sale of Land for Farmers Thailand's Natural Resources and Environment Minister, Chalermchai Srion, has instructed provincial governors across the country to investigate reports of illegal land sales involving state property intended for landless farmers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353473-thailand-investigates-illegal-sale-of-land-for-farmers/

Thailand's Natural Resources and Environment Minister, Chalermchai Srion, has instructed provincial governors across the country to investigate reports of illegal land sales involving state property intended for landless farmers. This directive follows revelations from a Senate committee, spearheaded by Senator Chivaparb Chivatham, concerning the exploitation of 80,000 hectares (roughly 500,000 rai) originally allocated under a government initiative to aid impoverished farmers. The investigation focuses on land in the eastern provinces of Chachoengsao, Chanthaburi, and Trat, where large sections of land have reportedly fallen into the hands of private entities and Chinese investors using nominees. This land, meant for those without any, is being converted into expansive durian plantations, including unauthorised artesian wells and a reservoir illegally filled with diverted stream water. Minister Chalermchai has made it clear that any land distributed under the Khor Thor Chor scheme found to be sold illegally will be reclaimed by the government. Instead of remaining with those who violate the agreement, the land will be turned into community forests or will be reforested, reasserting the land's return to public utility. The original intention of the initiative was noble. The Forest Department contributed around 1.15 million hectares (7.2 million rai) of degraded forest to facilitate this land redistribution, with each landless farmer receiving approximately 3.2 hectares (20 rai) under conditions that strictly forbid resale. To date, more than 78,000 families have benefited from about 80,000 hectares (520,000 rai) of distributed land. The remainder of the allocated land is still waiting to be parcelled out to prospective farming families. Despite this breach of the system, Forest Department Director-General Surachai Achalaboon reassures the public that the scale of illegal transactions is minor. He insists that the overall integrity and intent of the land distribution effort remain robust. This inquiry highlights a critical challenge in land management—a balance between fair allocation and vigilant enforcement. The outcome will likely shape future policy direction and oversight mechanisms to protect land meant for those in need from falling prey to profitable ventures. Authorities aim to ensure that such violations do not undermine the programme's success or its promise to support landless citizens looking to build sustainable livelihoods, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-03-04

Thais Deported from Cambodia Lured by High-Paying Scam Jobs Picture courtesy of Thai PBS In a recent development, 119 Thai nationals were deported from Cambodia, with suspicions swirling that many had ventured illegally across the border to work in scam centres located in Poipet. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353471-thais-deported-from-cambodia-lured-by-high-paying-scam-jobs/

Picture courtesy of Thai PBS In a recent development, 119 Thai nationals were deported from Cambodia, with suspicions swirling that many had ventured illegally across the border to work in scam centres located in Poipet. As revealed by Pol Lt-Gen Trairong Phiwpan, commissioner of Thailand's Cybercrime Investigation Bureau (CIB), seven of these returnees are already on the radar of Thai law enforcement. Once back in Aranyaprathet district, Sa Kaeo province, authorities seized the mobile phones of all returnees. This action suggests an investigation angle that these individuals might not have been victims of trafficking, but rather lured by lucrative pay packages offered by these scam operations. Allegedly, those involved could earn as much as a 4% commission from the swindled amounts, sometimes resulting in substantial earnings. Currently, these repatriated individuals are being held at a designated centre in Sa Kaeo. Officials from the CIB, the Immigration Bureau, and local police are conducting screenings under the National Referral Mechanism. This process aims to distinguish actual victims of human trafficking from voluntary participants in these fraudulent scams. Amongst the deportees, those already facing arrest warrants are now under charges related to fraud and associations with a transnational criminal network. The authorities have reportedly confiscated 121 mobile phones and other electronic devices from these individuals. The seized equipment is now under scrutiny to reveal any roles played in executing scams on unsuspecting victims. These scams often involve clever tactics. One prevalent trick involves contacting potential victims with false promises of a deposit refund tied to an electricity meter, luring them into downloading a fraudulent application. Other scams play on personal emotions, such as romance scams, or tempt with opportunities for online gambling. Each scam is meticulously designed to exploit trust and extract money from individuals. This operation underscores the ongoing battle against scam networks operating across borders, exploiting vulnerable individuals on both sides. While Thai authorities are striving to clamp down on such illicit operations, the allure of high pay continues to draw people into the murky world of these scams. Currently, the exchange rate stands at about 55 Thai Baht per GBP, which means even relatively small commissions can appear enticing. As this unfolding story progresses, authorities are likely to continue cracking down on these networks to curb the expanding web of online fraud and protect their citizens from being ensnared in illicit activities, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-03-04

Thailand's 2025 Visa-Free Travel: 36 Countries Announced Image courtesy of Daily News Exciting news for Thai travellers as 36 countries will allow entry without a visa in 2025, making international travel more straightforward. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has detailed the destinations and the length of stay for Thai visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353469-thailands-2025-visa-free-travel-36-countries-announced/

Image courtesy of Daily News Exciting news for Thai travellers as 36 countries will allow entry without a visa in 2025, making international travel more straightforward. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has detailed the destinations and the length of stay for Thai visitors. Visa-Free Countries for Thai Travellers: - 365 Days: Georgia - 180 Days: Panama - 90 Days: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador, South Korea, Peru, Albania - 60 Days: Kyrgyzstan 30-Day Visa-Free Countries: - China - Hong Kong - Indonesia - Kazakhstan - Laos - Macau - Mongolia - Malaysia - Maldives - Philippines - Qatar - Russia - Seychelles - Singapore - South Africa - Tajikistan - Turkey - Vanuatu - Vietnam - Sri Lanka 15-Day Visa-Free Country: - Japan 14-Day Visa-Free Countries: - Cambodia - Brunei - Myanmar - Taiwan - Bahrain These changes aim to enhance travel opportunities and ease the process for Thai tourists exploring the globe. Keep these destinations in mind when planning your adventures, reported Daily News. -- 2025-03-04

Cobra Gold: Thai and US Military Chiefs Observe Amphibious Drill Picture courtesy of Siam Rath On 3rd March 2025, Thai Navy Commander Admiral Jitraphon Wongwit and US Major General Michelle Schmidt of the 7th Infantry Division attended an amphibious assault exercise as part of Cobra Gold 2025. The drill took place at Naval Training Area 15, Hat Yao Beach, Sattahip, Chonburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353455-cobra-gold-thai-and-us-military-chiefs-observe-amphibious-drill/

Drug-Fuelled Rage: Uncle Kills Two-Year-Old Nephew Picture courtesy of Workpoint News A tragic incident shocked a community in Satun's Ta Phae district when a two-year-old boy was fatally assaulted by his uncle. The child's relative, a 35-year-old man identified as Mr. A (alias), reportedly hurled the toddler violently to the ground twice during a frenzy believed to be fuelled by drugs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic

Thailand to Introduce Salt Tax to Promote Healthier Eating File photo In a progressive move towards improving public health, the Excise Department of Thailand aims to implement a salt tax this year. This initiative, supported by the Salt Reduction Network, targets reducing the consumption of sodium-rich foods and encouraging the production of healthier options. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353446-thailand-to-introduce-salt-tax-to-promote-healthier-eating/

Thai DSI Poised to Decide on Senate Election Probe File photo courtesy of Thai Rath The Department of Special Investigation's (DSI) special cases board is set to announce this Thursday whether it will delve into alleged collusion related to last year's Senate election. The impending decision is a focal point following remarks by Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353445-thai-dsi-poised-to-decide-on-senate-election-probe/

Thai Govt Rejects Poll Showing Public Dissatisfaction FILE PHOTO: Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra talks to a reporter during a news conference at the government house in Bangkok. (The Government Spokesman Office via AP) In a recent twist, the government of Thailand has dismissed a poll released by the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida) indicating widespread discontent with its current performance. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353441-thai-govt-rejects-poll-showing-public-dissatisfaction/

Thailand Drops 50 Million Baht Account Rule for Casino Entry Casino file photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand has scrapped a difficult requirement for its upcoming casino-entertainment complex project. Originally, Thais needed to show proof of having a hefty 50 million Baht in a fixed deposit to gain entry. Now, they just need to demonstrate they have filed tax returns for the past three years. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353439-thailand-drops-50-million-baht-account-rule-for-casino-entry/

Casino file photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand has scrapped a difficult requirement for its upcoming casino-entertainment complex project. Originally, Thais needed to show proof of having a hefty 50 million Baht in a fixed deposit to gain entry. Now, they just need to demonstrate they have filed tax returns for the past three years. This significant shift in the Entertainment Complex Bill is detailed in Section 65 of the draft. The government’s legal advisors, the Council of State, reviewed this section, pushing for a more practical approach. According to Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira, recent public feedback has influenced this change. The revised draft legislation, which also considered public opinion, was signed by both Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and the Minister of Interior before heading to the cabinet secretariat at the end of February. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat confirmed the removal of the financial requirement, acknowledging that it catered little to the majority. With only about 10,000 Thais holding accounts with 50 million Baht, the initial move might have encouraged illegal gambling. "The revised draft adjusts to reality, ensuring more legitimate participation and aligns with state and community welfare," said Julapun. In its place, the law has retained a 5,000 Baht entrance fee, coupled with the income tax filing rule, as a more inclusive threshold for casino entry. Stimulating the legislative gears further, the government aims to present the bill to the cabinet quickly, seeing potential approval this parliamentary session. Reflecting on the broader implications, several protest groups, including the Network of Students and People for Thailand's Reform and the Dharma Army, expressed deep concerns. Convening outside the government house in Bangkok, they submitted a formal complaint to Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-o-cha, instead demanding a legislative reconsideration. In their appeal, they voiced fears regarding the potential societal, religious, and economic discord the casino might bring. Thailand's latest maneuver towards legalised gambling underscores a desire to balance growth and regulation with cultural sensitivities and economic inclusivity. While it opens doors wider for local participation, it maintains a stern gaze on revenue and lawfulness, striving for a framework that respects its rich and diverse community fabric. How this balance will materialise remains one of Thailand's pressing questions, as eyes keenly watch the government's next steps, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-04

FILE PHOTO: Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra talks to a reporter during a news conference at the government house in Bangkok. (The Government Spokesman Office via AP) In a recent twist, the government of Thailand has dismissed a poll released by the National Institute of Development Administration (Nida) indicating widespread discontent with its current performance. Jirayu Houngsub, a government spokesman, has criticised the poll, suggesting that its open-ended questions might be slanted against the administration. Instead, Jirayu highlighted the government’s own internal surveys, which reportedly reflect a more positive public perception. According to these surveys, the population generally supports the government's social and economic initiatives. Key government actions, such as cutting off power and internet from call centre scammers in Myanmar and offering a 10,000 Baht handout intended to aid nearly 45 million citizens, were pointed out as concrete efforts to address public issues. “The 3.2% GDP growth in the last quarter of last year itself is a testament to our economic strategies, and we anticipate further growth this year,” remarked Jirayu, underscoring the expected effectiveness of their policies soon. The Nida poll paints a different picture, revealing that a majority of Thais are less than impressed with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's administration. Approximately 34.58% of participants noted they were "fairly dissatisfied," while 20% expressed they were "not at all satisfied." On the flip side, 32.60% reported being "quite satisfied," and a smaller segment of 12.82% were "highly satisfied." When participants were specifically asked about the Prime Minister's six-month performance, the sentiment was mixed. Roughly 13.36% voiced "high satisfaction", and 31.76% were "fairly satisfied," while a notable 32.60% were "fairly dissatisfied," and 22.28% were "completely dissatisfied." Regarding the government's overall capability to tackle national issues, confidence again appeared divided. An estimated 36.41% claimed they had "little confidence," and 26.26% held "no confidence at all." Meanwhile, 25.04% were "quite confident," and 12.29% were "highly confident" about the government's problem-solving abilities. The Nida survey gathered feedback from 1,310 respondents across Thailand. While the government stands firm in its rebuttal, the contrasting views highlight the ongoing debate over Thailand's political direction and leadership effectiveness, keeping the nation attentively focused on how these dynamics play out in the public sphere, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-04

File photo courtesy of Thai Rath The Department of Special Investigation's (DSI) special cases board is set to announce this Thursday whether it will delve into alleged collusion related to last year's Senate election. The impending decision is a focal point following remarks by Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong. Originally expected last Tuesday, the decision was deferred due to a need for further scrutiny. The delay allows the board, chaired by Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, to thoroughly consider the complexities before making a judgment. Although the Justice Minister has refrained from predicting the board's decision, he acknowledged the existence of further evidence that hasn't yet reached the media's attention. This includes a list comprising 1,200 names, discovered on the day of the Senate election at Muang Thong Thani estate in Nonthaburi, where final voting was held. The list, which names Senate candidates and current senators, has no leaks attributed to the DSI, as per Pol Col Tawee. It's essential to note that being on this list doesn't inherently suggest wrongdoing or collusion. Following the document's leak, DSI spokesman Pol Maj Gen Woranan Srilam confirmed their awareness but also denied DSI's involvement in distributing it. As discussions progress, a Senate petition calls into question both the Justice Minister and the DSI chief, suggesting abuse of authority, though Pol Col Tawee insists the investigation lacks political bias. Complicating matters, the Council of State (CoS) raised queries about the DSI's jurisdiction over such investigations. Pol Col Tawee contends that CoS concerns pertain solely to principle and respecting the autonomy of independent agencies. The murky waters of this investigation prompted unsuccessful candidates to urge parliament president Wan Muhamad Noor Matha to commence an ethics inquiry. Their concern is that some senators' actions might hinder the DSI’s exploration into possible vote manipulation. Amidst this backdrop, Sen Chattawat Saengphet plans to table a motion focused on justice administration within the Senate on Tuesday. His motion seeks clarification on the roles played by the Justice Ministry and the DSI in handling high-profile cases amid rising scrutiny. As the DSI prepares to make its decisive announcement, the story unfolds with both anticipation and caution. This significant step could redefine how legal investigations into political elections transpire in Thailand and could have a lasting impact on the nation's democratic integrity, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-04

File photo In a progressive move towards improving public health, the Excise Department of Thailand aims to implement a salt tax this year. This initiative, supported by the Salt Reduction Network, targets reducing the consumption of sodium-rich foods and encouraging the production of healthier options. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Surasak Kantachuvessiri, president of the Salt Reduction Network, lauded the decision, citing international examples where similar measures have proven effective. In Hungary, for instance, a salt tax on snacks and seasoning sauces has effectively reduced the consumption of unhealthy foods by 20-35%. Consequently, around 80% of Hungarians now opt for products containing reduced sodium formulas, boosting their sales. Other countries, including Mexico, Tonga, and Fiji, have also adopted sodium-based taxes, recognising that mere public education on reducing salt intake isn't sufficient. The focus instead is on adjusting consumer habits by altering the market dynamics. In Thailand, fast foods, ready meals, processed foods, and snacks typically contain high salt levels, posing significant health risks such as increased non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and inflating medical costs. The salt tax, therefore, aims at lowering these levels not for revenue but to nudge manufacturers towards healthier recipes, with initial leeway in tax burdens to ease the transition. The tax structure will be tiered, correlating with the sodium content in products, beginning with snacks that are popular among children and teenagers. This strategy targets changing consumption patterns from childhood, curbing lifelong salt dependence. The Thai Health Promotion Foundation's deputy manager, Dr. Pairoj Saonuam, highlighted alarming statistics. By World Health Organisation standards, sodium intake should not exceed 2,000 milligrams per day. Yet, average adult intake in Thailand stands at 3,636 milligrams daily, with children closely following at 3,200 milligrams. Excessive salt consumption is linked to serious health conditions, with evidence showing earlier onset of NCDs. In Bangkok, 10% of students suffer from high blood pressure, while 14% are overweight, serving as stark warnings for immediate intervention. To mitigate these risks, Dr. Pairoj urged the public to lower salt intake, supplementing diets with more fruits and vegetables—up to 400 grams daily—and engaging in at least 150 minutes of exercise per week. The salt tax aims to reshape dietary habits long-term, with a focus on nurturing a healthier generation and reducing future healthcare burdens. As this initiative unfolds, its success could set a precedent for similar measures across the region, aligning closer with global health standards, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-03-04

Picture courtesy of Workpoint News A tragic incident shocked a community in Satun's Ta Phae district when a two-year-old boy was fatally assaulted by his uncle. The child's relative, a 35-year-old man identified as Mr. A (alias), reportedly hurled the toddler violently to the ground twice during a frenzy believed to be fuelled by drugs. Residents were left in disbelief as police promptly apprehended Mr. A at the scene. Despite his incoherent murmurs, he confessed to the violent act that led to the young boy's death. According to locals, the child and his uncle were familiar with each other. The boy’s mother was washing dishes at the back of the house when the tragedy transpired and was not eyewitness to the horrific event. She explained that the victim was her son from a previous marriage, presently living in her new family home. On the morning of the incident, she, her husband, and the perpetrator—her brother-in-law—shared a meal as usual. After breakfast, the uncle walked outside, and her son followed. “I only realised something was wrong when I found my son unconscious, and he later passed away,” she recounted with sorrow. Her husband expressed profound shock, unable to comprehend that his brother could commit such a crime. A witness and brother of the perpetrator recounted hearing loud thuds from inside the house. He rushed to see his nephew unconscious on the ground with the uncle standing nearby. He quickly carried the child to his mother and called emergency services. The family acknowledged the uncle's long-standing battle with drug addiction, noting his tendency to talk to himself, yet never imagined he would harm his nephew. Reports confirm Mr. A's history of substance abuse, which likely fuelled the frenzy resulting in this devastating incident, reported Workpoint News. -- 2025-03-04

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath On 3rd March 2025, Thai Navy Commander Admiral Jitraphon Wongwit and US Major General Michelle Schmidt of the 7th Infantry Division attended an amphibious assault exercise as part of Cobra Gold 2025. The drill took place at Naval Training Area 15, Hat Yao Beach, Sattahip, Chonburi. The main goal of the amphibious operation is to secure a beachhead and advance into enemy territory. The exercise began with naval artillery and close air support to weaken the opposing forces' defences. Subsequently, troops landed to secure and establish a safe beachhead from which further operations could proceed. This year's exercise involved personnel from the Thai, United States, and Republic of Korea armed forces. The US provided F-16 fighter jets and other military equipment, while Thailand deployed the HTMS Ang Thong, amphibious vehicles, and Cessna O-2 reconnaissance aircraft. Korea contributed with the ROKS No Jeok Bong and KAAV amphibious vehicles. The purpose of this exercise is to enhance combat readiness, develop military capabilities, and demonstrate joint military strength among allied forces. It aims to ensure the Thai military's readiness in all dimensions, while also fostering international military relations and cooperation to guarantee national security, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-03-04

UPDATE: Thai Veteran Hospital to Report Staff for Drug Theft Picture courtesy of Thai PBS In a troubling revelation, the War Veterans Organisation of Thailand (WVO) alongside the Veterans General Hospital is set to seek police action today against several current and former staff, linked to a drug theft ring. The stolen medication is purportedly being resold outside the institution, sparking serious concerns about corruption within the ranks. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353428-thai-hospital-staff-accused-in-massive-drug-fraud-network/#findComment-19632339

Thai Veteran Hospital to Report Staff for Drug Theft Picture courtesy of Thai PBS In a troubling revelation, the War Veterans Organisation of Thailand (WVO) alongside the Veterans General Hospital is set to seek police action today against several current and former staff, linked to a drug theft ring. The stolen medication is purportedly being resold outside the institution, sparking serious concerns about corruption within the ranks. The bombshell arose following an exposé by Tanadej Pengsuk, a People’s Party MP representing Bangkok. Tanadej disclosed that a former doctor at the hospital had alerted him to the illicit activity that allegedly dated back several years. Spurred into immediate action, the hospital and the WVO conducted an internal investigation. Their inquiries confirmed the allegations, unearthing a network comprising six teams. The individuals implicated include both current and retired nurses, along with other medical personnel. Alarmingly, one member of the network has already confessed to their involvement. In response, the hospital has taken swift precautionary steps. Those under suspicion have been suspended from duty as the investigation continues. This is intended to preserve the integrity of the ongoing inquiry and prevent any potential tampering with evidence. The case adds to growing concerns about internal malpractice in Thailand's healthcare sector, where accountability and transparency are fiercely sought. The decision to escalate the matter to the anti-corruption police signifies the seriousness with which the hospital and the WVO are treating this breach of trust. This unfolding situation raises hard questions about oversight and control within public medical institutions in Thailand, where the wellbeing of veterans and the general public must remain sacrosanct. The outcome of this case will likely have wide-reaching implications for how similar instances are handled in the future, ensuring that such breaches do not recur and trust in public institutions is restored. As developments unfold, all eyes will remain on the authorities to see how they tackle this sensitive case, balancing the need for justice with the prompt restoration of honourable service to those who served the nation, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-03-04

White Powder Mystery: Russian Found Dead in Koh Kaew" Picture courtesy of Phuket City Police Phuket City police are probing the death of a 41-year-old Russian man found lifeless in a Koh Kaew residence. Police Lieutenant Saruta Phumduang, Deputy Chief of Investigation, received the report around 8 PM on March 2, promptly sending officers and forensic experts from Vachira Phuket Hospital to the scene. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353430-white-powder-mystery-russian-found-dead-in-koh-kaew/

Pattaya Awaits Decision on Fate of Controversial Waterfront Condo The abandoned waterfront condo | Photo via Pattaya News/Facebook In Pattaya, the abandoned waterfront condominium at Bali Hai Pier is at the centre of a legal storm, as Mayor Poramet Ngampichet addresses the growing unrest. The condominium's Certificate of Utilisation, issued on land previously classified as unoccupied, has come under scrutiny by the National Anti-Corruption Commission. This revelation has cast doubt on the legitimacy of the building's land title deed. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353410-pattaya-awaits-decision-on-fate-of-controversial-waterfront-condo/