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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/

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. On 22nd January 2025, Traisulee Traisoranakul, Secretary to the Interior Minister and Ministry spokesperson, reported that due to current weather conditions, many areas across the country are suffering from increased PM2.5 pollution, adversely affecting public health. To address this, Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has instructed all provincial governors to issue directives to their district officers. The aim is to monitor air quality closely and implement measures that prevent open burning, particularly in agricultural areas and the burning of waste, which are major sources of toxic dust. The ministerial directive also emphasises collaboration between governors, district officers, and relevant agencies to inspect and educate the public on the adverse effects of pollution and the necessary control measures. Non-compliance with these rules will result in strict legal action. Traisulee highlighted that the minister expressed concerns over weather conditions that trap pollutants, worsening the PM2.5 crisis and posing a severe health risk to the public. Therefore, authorities nationwide are urged to implement a no-burning policy rigorously, increase inspection frequency, and ensure compliance, with penalties enforced against violators as the problem of air pollution remains a significant threat to public health, reported Daily News. -- 2025-01-23

Gordon Ramsay Visits Bangkok to Try Top-Tier 'Pad Thai Pratu Phi Picture courtesy: Gordon Ramey Facebook Renowned celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, celebrated for his Michelin-star success, recently took to social media to share his culinary delight in the heart of Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349613-gordon-ramsay-visits-bangkok-to-try-top-tier-pad-thai-pratu-phi/

Picture courtesy: Gordon Ramey Facebook Renowned celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay, celebrated for his Michelin-star success, recently took to social media to share his culinary delight in the heart of Bangkok. Ramsay praised the "excellent Pad Thai" from the iconic Thipsamai Restaurant at Pratu Pee, expressing his excitement about being in the vibrant city. On 22nd January 2025, Ramsay posted a picture of himself smiling broadly, holding a plate of the renowned dish with chopsticks ready in hand. The scene, beautifully captured, features Ramsay on a balcony with Bangkok’s bustling backdrop, as a branded Thipsamai paper bag sits on the table beside him. Captioning his Instagram post, Ramsay wrote, "When in Thailand ... you learn from past mistakes. This is outstanding Pad Thai from Thipsamai – thrilled to be in Bangkok!" The post quickly garnered attention, with both local fans and international followers reacting enthusiastically, liking and sharing the joyful culinary moment widely across platforms. -- 2025-01-23

Love Wins: Bangkok Celebrates First Day of Equal Marriage Says "I Do" File photo for reference only Bangkok will make history as the Marriage Equality Bill comes into effect, allowing equal marriage registrations for all couples across the city's 50 districts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349603-love-wins-bangkok-celebrates-first-day-of-equal-marriage-says-i-do/

Russian tourist attacked in Pattaya over livestream mix-up By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod English A Russian tourist’s harmless social media livestream took a violent turn on Pattaya Beach when a local woman, mistakenly believing she was being filmed, assaulted him in a dramatic scene outside the Pattaya City Police Station. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349587-russian-tourist-attacked-in-pattaya-over-livestream-mix-up/

Thai driver released on 600,000 baht bail after killing motorcyclist By Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon The Bangkok South Criminal Court released a Thai sedan driver on bail set at 600,000 baht this afternoon after he intentionally hit and killed a motorcyclist on Sukhumvit Road in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349500-delivery-rider-killed-in-road-rage-incident-involving-indian-driver-on-sukhumvit-road/#findComment-19531909

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 23 January 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1349586-thailand-live-thursday-23-january-2025/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand tackles high airfares for Songkran festival By Puntid Tantivangphaisal The Transport Ministry has directed the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) to tackle the high cost of airfares during long weekends and holiday periods, in preparation for the Songkran festival in April. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349576-thailand-tackles-high-airfares-for-songkran-festival/

Thai MP Denies Loan Shark Allegations Amid Scandal File photo courtesy: Thai Rath In a fresh twist to Thailand's political scene, Klathum MP 'Pi Lick' has been embroiled in controversial allegations this week, accused of being involved in loan shark operations. Pi, known for his ties with former Palang Pracharath heavyweight Thammanat Prompao, has come forward vehemently denying any such involvement. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349590-thai-mp-denies-loan-shark-allegations-amid-scandal/

File photo courtesy: Thai Rath In a fresh twist to Thailand's political scene, Klathum MP 'Pi Lick' has been embroiled in controversial allegations this week, accused of being involved in loan shark operations. Pi, known for his ties with former Palang Pracharath heavyweight Thammanat Prompao, has come forward vehemently denying any such involvement. This revelation has gripped the nation, sparking widespread discussion about potential unethical conduct among public officials. Pi, representing Kamphaeng Phet, found himself thrust into the media spotlight following a barrage of claims circulated on social media. These allegations suggest that he dabbled in the unlawful lending business, possibly through connections with his former partner, actress Arisara Thongborisut. However, steadfast in his rebuttal, Pi asserted that he has never entertained any involvement in such illegal activities, emphasising his duty-bound stance to combat such practices given his capacity as a lawmaker. The accusations against Pi have been underlined by reports involving an unnamed individual, claiming to have been a personal secretary to Arisara during her alleged dealings. This individual purportedly demanded Arisara repay nearly nine million baht that she allegedly borrowed for funding the said illicit venture. The plot thickened when Arisara indicated she intended to settle this debt using funds gained from distributing government lottery tickets – a business alleged to have connections with Thammanat. Thammanat, a figure of intrigue himself, leads a faction of 20 MPs who defected from Palang Pracharath to join the Klathum party, a current coalition partner, raising eyebrows about the connections and loyalties within Thai politics. Despite the swirling allegations, Pi Lick has staunchly denied any implication of Thammanat in the supposed lottery quota scandal, aiming to distance his political ally from the claims of financial misconduct. This unfolding drama has not just captivated the attention of the public but has also magnified concerns over political integrity in Thailand. It echoes a broader issue of accountability among elected officials and their associates, driving serious conversations about reform and transparency within the country's power corridors. As the story continues to develop, it remains to be seen how these allegations could impact the reputation and political futures of those involved. For now, Pi Lick's emphatic denials stand as a challenge against these accusations, leaving the public watching for any new revelationsm, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-01-22

Thailand’s Entertainment Complex Law Stirs Debate Reference only photo courtesy: Wikipedia The Thai government's draft law on entertainment complexes has sparked a heated debate over its lack of clarity and purpose. According to Professor Chidtawan Chanakul of Kasetsart University's Faculty of Economics, there is growing concern over what the law aims to achieve. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349583-thailand’s-entertainment-complex-law-stirs-debate/

Reference only photo courtesy: Wikipedia The Thai government's draft law on entertainment complexes has sparked a heated debate over its lack of clarity and purpose. According to Professor Chidtawan Chanakul of Kasetsart University's Faculty of Economics, there is growing concern over what the law aims to achieve. Does it intend to boost tourism or tackle illegal gambling, or both? This ambiguity is causing confusion among supporters and those scrutinising its potential impacts. At the heart of this legislative conundrum lies the question of what defines a tourist-oriented entertainment complex versus a simple man-made attraction. Should these complexes include additional elements like casinos, or should they prioritise large-scale tourism attractions? Without clear guidelines, these questions remain unanswered, and the direction of the draft law seems uncertain. Professor Chidtawan highlights that pursuing dual objectives - attracting tourists and combating illegal gambling - simultaneously requires a carefully thought-out strategy. He points to Singapore’s model, where entertainment complexes featuring casinos come with strict regulations and laws that prevent citizens from gambling, thereby minimising social harm. "In Thailand, confusion surrounds the law's principles and rationale," notes Chidtawan. "It does not make it clear if the purpose is to legalise gambling to eliminate underground activities, or to keep gambling out of citizens' reach while focusing on tourism." The Atlantic City Cautionary Tale Professor Chidtawan also draws parallels to Atlantic City in the United States, which intended to emulate Las Vegas and become a hub for tourism by legalising casinos in the 1970s. However, the city encountered severe issues, such as illegal gambling, corruption, and increased prostitution. With insufficient planning and regulation, the project struggled, leaving few casinos operational today and failing to rejuvenate tourism. The New Jersey Department of Labour's recent study revealed that the city's casino workforce remains largely low-skilled, trapped in poverty, and providing little economic benefit. With these lessons in mind, Professor Chidtawan urges Thailand to define its goals lucidly. Implementing rigid regulations and preparing both infrastructure and workforce are crucial to mitigate potential negative outcomes. Should the government proceed without these measures, the initiative might spiral into another ill-conceived policy, saddling Thailand with significant social and economic costs. In a nation rich with cultural tourism potential, clarity in legislative definitions is essential to avoid repeating history's pitfalls, reported The Nation. -- 2025-01-22

Toddler in critical condition after falling into water container by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod An 11 month old boy tragically fell into a water container in Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima district, Nakhon Ratchasima province, leaving him in critical condition. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349542-toddler-in-critical-condition-after-falling-into-water-container/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Bright Choomanee An 11 month old boy tragically fell into a water container in Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima district, Nakhon Ratchasima province, leaving him in critical condition. After being found without a pulse, emergency responders performed CPR and rushed him to Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital. Medical professionals cautioned that if he regains consciousness, he may not recover fully. The incident occurred yesterday, January 21, when a rescue team from Sawang Metta Thammasathan Foundation received an alert about the accident at a village in Hua Thale subdistrict. The team coordinated with Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital’s medical responders and quickly proceeded to the scene. They arrived at an unnumbered abandoned house where they found a 76 year old great-grandmother holding her 11 month old great-grandson and crying inconsolably. The child had no pulse, prompting the team to administer CPR before transporting him urgently to the hospital. In tears, the great-grandmother recounted that the child is her great-grandson, the son of her granddaughter who was unprepared for motherhood. After his birth, the child was entrusted to her care, and they lived together with her husband in the abandoned house without electricity and water, relying on whatever they could manage. Before the accident, she observed the boy playing in water containers lined up in front of their home. She scolded him and slapped his hand to stop him from playing there and then went inside, with her great-grandson following. “While I was looking for things and a yellow bucket to store water, I assumed he was playing. After half an hour, I couldn’t find him. I called out for him but there was no response. Eventually, I found him headfirst in a black water container. I quickly lifted him onto my shoulder and patted his back to get the water out, not knowing how long he had been in the water.” Water accident The great-grandmother also shared that her great-grandson often played with water in the containers, using a scoop to splash around. She would regularly scold him, hitting his hand to deter him. He was an energetic child, always running and playing, full of joy and a love for dancing. They used the water in the containers, sourced from neighbours every two to four days, for laundry and dishwashing, reported KhaoSod. “Every morning before my husband left for work, he would kiss our great-grandson. Witnessing him drowning was heartbreaking. The doctors have informed us that he stopped breathing for a significant time, resulting in severe conditions. If he wakes, he may not return to normal, possibly becoming disabled or in a permanent coma. Despite this, my only hope is that he survives, regardless of any disabilities or conditions he might have.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-22

Thai actress accused of swindling 20 million baht and threatening victims by Petch Petpailin Photo by Molly Blackbird via Unsplash A news Facebook page claimed to have received complaints from three followers alleging that a Thai actress swindled them out of 20 million baht and used the name of a Thai politician to threaten them into remaining silent. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349541-thai-actress-accused-of-swindling-20-million-baht-and-threatening-victims/

Photo by Molly Blackbird via Unsplash by Petch Petpailin A news Facebook page claimed to have received complaints from three followers alleging that a Thai actress swindled them out of 20 million baht and used the name of a Thai politician to threaten them into remaining silent. The Facebook page, Big Kren, publicly reported the complaints it received from the three people yesterday, January 20. According to the page, the actress borrowed a total of over 20 million baht from these three and tried to avoid repaying the debt by invoking the name of a prominent Thai politician. One of the victims stated that the actress first borrowed money from her in 2023. She lent the actress money on four occasions: 800,000 baht, 2.2 million baht, 2.8 million baht, and 3 million baht. The victim said she had been attempting to recover her money since November 2023, but her efforts were unsuccessful. The actress reportedly claimed that she did not borrow the money for herself but that a politician had asked her to seek the funds on his behalf. She added that the politician failed to repay the money, leaving her unable to reimburse the victim. Photo by Nzewi Confidence via Canva The victims also shared screenshots of conversations between themselves and the actress on the Facebook page. In one of the conversations, the actress assured the victim that she would repay the money as soon as she received earnings from 88. The page and netizens speculated that 88 might refer to an illegal gambling website or an illicit lottery platform in which the actress allegedly had a stake. The page further revealed abbreviations of the actress’s name, prompting Thai netizens to speculate about her identity. As of now, no celebrities or politicians have issued statements regarding the allegations. Photo by Dillon Kydd via Unsplash In a related case, a Laotian actress, Wanmanee “Lilly” Ponsavan, sought justice last year, claiming that a former Thai singer, Aongart “Aerk” Lederer, swindled her out of 34 million baht. She accused the singer of deceiving her into investing in a beauty clinic, resulting in significant financial losses. Additionally, Lilly accused another Thai actress, Mantana “Pu” Himathongkham, of owing her 670,000 baht, leading to ongoing legal and social media battles. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-22

Hospital admits infant body swap due to name, age similarities by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Thairath The Department of Medical Services has addressed the issue of a hospital mistakenly swapping two infants’ bodies, acknowledging the error occurred due to similarities in the children’s names and ages, as well as their passing occurring close together. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349531-hospital-admits-infant-body-swap-due-to-name-age-similarities/

Picture courtesy of Thairath by Bright Choomanee The Department of Medical Services has addressed the issue of a hospital mistakenly swapping two infants’ bodies, acknowledging the error occurred due to similarities in the children’s names and ages, as well as their passing occurring close together. Yesterday, January 21, the Department of Medical Services issued a statement through the Pathology Institute explaining the incident. The institute clarified that they had received two infants’ bodies from the Queen Sirikit National Institute of Child Health on January 15. The first was a four-month-old boy, and the second was a two-month-old boy. The Pathology Institute admitted the error in the transfer of the bodies, with the first child’s body already cremated before the mistake was discovered. Upon realising the mistake, the institute informed the families, extended their condolences, and accepted responsibility for the error. The closeness in the children’s ages, names, and times of death contributed to the mix-up. In response, the Pathology Institute has established a committee to investigate the facts and reported the findings to senior management. The aim is to identify the cause and implement corrective measures to prevent recurrence, reported KhaoSod. The institute also engaged directly with the families involved, taking responsibility for organising merit-making ceremonies for the two infants and accepting accountability for the incident. In related news, a shocking incident of baby swapping at a hospital left a father devastated after discovering his newborn daughter had been switched with another baby. The hospital has admitted to the mistake, corrected its actions and has since scheduled a meeting to discuss compensation for the families involved. The father initially noticed the issue when his newborn daughter’s appearance seemed different after she was separated from the mother for medical reasons. The baby, who had been taken to the intensive care unit due to fast breathing, looked different from the photos taken before the hospital discharge. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-22

Toxic air: Thailand considers work from home nationwide by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Ministry of Public Health is set to recommend a nationwide work from home directive next week after PM2.5 ultrafine dust pollution surpassed safe thresholds in nearly every province yesterday, January 21, with Greater Bangkok experiencing the highest levels. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349525-toxic-air-thailand-considers-work-from-home-nationwide/