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File photo Anutin Charnvirakul, leader of Thailand's Bhumjaithai Party, has expressed strong confidence that Thailand's new government will back the party’s pro-cannabis stance. This marks a significant progression of the green revolution that gained momentum under former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. In July, an agreement was forged between Srettha and Anutin to advance a draft bill aiming to regulate cannabis for medical and research uses—a pivot from the previous stance of reclassifying cannabis as a narcotic. Anutin is keen to ensure that this cannabis control bill becomes one of the six key policies his party submits to the ruling Pheu Thai Party. These policies will soon form part of the coalition’s agenda to be presented in Parliament. During discussions, Anutin, 57, emphasized the goal of advancing Thai herbal research and development, positioning cannabis as a central focus. When questioned about potential opposition from the Democrat Party, Anutin remained optimistic, implying that even if they attempt to block the bill, they might not have the necessary influence to do so. “This new Democrat team isn’t the same as the previous one," Anutin noted confidently. "I believe in Democrat leader Chalermchai Sri-on’s team spirit and his apparent understanding of the public’s needs.” In relation to the government's plan to push for an entertainment complex project, including a legal casino, Anutin stated that Bhumjaithai, as a key coalition partner, would support the project provided it isn’t used to benefit specific groups unfairly. “I’m not worried about this project because we have an ethical code with a broad scope to follow, and everyone seems to be extra careful about respecting that code now,” he added. Other Bhumjaithai policies include decentralisation, equal access to education, improved water management, and clean energy, according to reports by the Bangkok Post. As the political landscape unfolds, Anutin’s firm stance and proactive policies highlight his commitment to driving significant changes in Thailand, particularly in the realm of cannabis regulation. -- 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Corrections Department Confirms 24-Hour Guard for Thaksin at Police Hospital Picture courtesy: Daily News Thailand’s Corrections Department has confirmed round-the-clock surveillance for former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who received treatment at the Police General Hospital. This comes in response to allegations made by Pol. Gen. Sereepisuth Temiyawes, leader of the Seri Ruam Thai Party, about lax security protocols. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337244-corrections-department-confirms-24-hour-guard-for-thaksin-at-police-hospital/

Thailand’s Corrections Department has confirmed round-the-clock surveillance for former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who received treatment at the Police General Hospital. This comes in response to allegations made by Pol. Gen. Sereepisuth Temiyawes, leader of the Seri Ruam Thai Party, about lax security protocols. Sereepisuth recently revealed that he had visited Thaksin twice during his hospital stay on the 14th floor of the 88th Anniversary Maha Bhumibol Adulyadej Building, noting that no prison officers were stationed outside Thaksin's room during his visits on November 14, 2023, and February 10, 2024. He expressed concerns to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), demanding accountability from the Justice Minister, Director-General of the Department of Corrections, and the Commander of Bangkok Special Prison. Responding to these claims, Sahakon Petcharin, Director-General of the Department of Corrections, denied any unauthorized visits by Sereepisuth. Justice Minister Pol. Col. Thawee Sodsong reiterated the Ministry's willingness to consider any information provided. Dr. Sompop Sangkutkaew, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Corrections, affirmed the adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for controlling prisoners, adding that there is evidence to support this. "Four prison officers from Bangkok Special Prison are taking turns supervising Thaksin 24 hours a day, with two on duty in the morning and two in the evening," he stated. This setup aligns with the guideline requiring two officers per prisoner for effective oversight. Dr. Sompop further clarified that the Department of Corrections provides regular updates on prisoner supervision to their superiors. However, the method of reporting, such as photographs and documentation, is subject to internal policies of individual prisons rather than a centralized mandate from the Department of Corrections. In light of these developments, Dr. Sompop expressed readiness to cooperate fully with any investigative procedures initiated by the NACC. He emphasized the department's commitment to transparency and adherence to legal processes. The Corrections Department maintains that they have thoroughly followed all protocols, ensuring the security and supervision of Thaksin while he remains in hospital care. As the investigation continues, all involved parties remain under scrutiny to ensure compliance with established regulations. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Arrest Warrant Issued for Indian Man For Assaulting 14-Year-Old Girl Picture courtesy: Daily News Police in Nong Prue have issued an arrest warrant for an elderly Indian man accused of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl, resulting in her pregnancy, and compelling her to undergo an abortion. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337240-arrest-warrant-issued-for-indian-man-for-assaulting-14-year-old-girl/

Police in Nong Prue have issued an arrest warrant for an elderly Indian man accused of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl, resulting in her pregnancy, and compelling her to undergo an abortion. The tragic events were reported by a 34-year-old woman, known pseudonymously as Ms. Iw, who accompanied her daughter to Nong Prue Police Station on August 27 to file a criminal complaint. According to the report, an elderly Indian man had assaulted her daughter, leading to her pregnancy. The man then allegedly forced them to terminate the pregnancy at a Bangkok clinic by using financial pressure. Despite desperate pleas to keep the baby, clinic staff responded harshly, causing significant trauma to the family. Police Colonel Tawee Kutkaelang, Chief of Nong Prue Police Station, confirmed on September 3 that the Pattaya Provincial Court issued an arrest warrant on September 2, 2024, for Mr. Karamveer Singh, 60, an Indian national. The warrant, No. 473/2567, charges Singh with raping a minor under the age of 15, regardless of the girl's consent and without being married to her. Investigation teams have been mobilised to gather evidence and track down the suspect. Colonel Tawee emphasised the police's commitment to resolving the case, stating that the officers are working diligently to ensure justice is served. Initially, the victim’s family feared their lack of financial resources would prevent them from receiving justice against a wealthy foreign national. Their concerns were alleviated by the proactive steps taken by the police. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya Pushes Forward as a HUB for the Film Industry and to Become a City of Film By Adam Judd Pattaya– On September 2nd, 2024, The Tourist Authority of Thailand (TAT) Pattaya branch and Pattaya City hosted a large group meeting at a local hotel to drive Pattaya towards becoming the what organizers call a creative city in film. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337238-pattaya-pushes-forward-as-a-hub-for-the-film-industry-and-to-become-a-city-of-film/

Pattaya– On September 2nd, 2024, The Tourist Authority of Thailand (TAT) Pattaya branch and Pattaya City hosted a large group meeting at a local hotel to drive Pattaya towards becoming the what organizers call a creative city in film. The meeting was designed to report and present the results of various activities promoting film, aligning with UNESCO guidelines for 2024. After discussing the achievements and suggestions, the attendees assigned relevant agencies to drive film-related activities for the upcoming year of 2025. This initiative is part of Pattaya’s ongoing efforts to enhance its movie and film industry and drive tourism. By Adam Judd Source: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Wednesday 4 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337235-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-wednesday-4-september-2024/

NEWS-04-September-2.mp4.fe45b29bd6bf6de482f08480d03b21ac.mp4 The president of Thai Airways International announced that the airline is operating its fleet of Airbus A350s as usual, with no engine issues detected. His comments come in response to flight cancellations at Cathay Pacific due to faulty engines on the same aircraft type that caused the cancellation of nearly all scheduled flights from Hong Kong to Singapore. Officials from the Anti-Corruption Commission have arrested two highway officers responsible for weighing stations, along with an accomplice, on charges of demanding and receiving bribes from operators of overloaded trucks. One of the arrested officers was also the head of the "Spot Check Special Unit" under the Department of Highways. The arrests followed complaints filed last year by a group of truck and crane operators. Residents and businesses close to rivers in 11 provinces including Bangkok, have been advised to prepare for rising water levels, after the Royal Irrigation Department increased the volume of water being discharged through the Chao Phraya Dam in Chainat province. and... Authorities in Phuket have identified 49 locations, including Phuket Town, as areas vulnerable to flash floods or landslides. Using a mathematical model and geographic data, the agency pinpointed the villages and communities at the highest risk. This follows heavy rainfall on August 23, which triggered landslides, resulting in 13 fatalities, 19 injuries, and damage to over 50 houses. Around the region Indonesia has arrested a suspected terrorist who plotted an attack on the Singapore Exchange building in 2014. The counter-terrorism unit said thesuspect is affiliated with the terrorist group Al-Qaeda Bangladesh: The death toll from relentless monsoon rains and floods rose to 71 yesterday, with millions still stranded and growing fears of waterborne disease. the floods have devastated the region over the past two weeks, affecting around five million people. Finally, if you plan to fly to Europe Many European airports have re-introduced the strict 100ml limit for liquids being carried in hand luggage. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Sunny partly cloudy 34C degrees celsius Bangkok: Thunder showers 32 Pattaya: cloudy with rain 30 Phuket and the south: Cloudy with showers 31 Hua Hin: Bright with light Cloud, 30C. Much the same over the weekend . AQI: green which is good Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Wunderground.com The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Windy.com. -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-09-02 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Poised to Gain from Surge in Medical Tourism File photo Thailand, Southeast Asia's leading destination for medical tourism, stands to significantly benefit from a projected boom in the industry. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337232-thailand-poised-to-gain-from-surge-in-medical-tourism/

File photo Thailand, Southeast Asia's leading destination for medical tourism, stands to significantly benefit from a projected boom in the industry. The global medical tourism market, estimated to grow an impressive 20% annually, is expected to balloon from $103 billion to $284 billion by 2032, as reported by Bumrungrad International Hospital. Dr Nipat Kulabkaw, co-chief executive of the hospital group, highlighted the increasing influx of patients from neighbouring Southeast Asian countries and the Middle East following the pandemic. Speaking at the Thailand Focus 2024 event, he underscored Thailand's strong position in medical tourism, attributing it to a combination of world-class medical expertise, affordable services, and exceptional hospitality. "Thailand offers an unmatched blend of safety standards, advanced medical technology, and cost-effective healthcare," Dr Nipat stated. He pointed out that 62 Thai hospitals have received certification from the US's Joint Commission International, a prestigious endorsement of quality care. The shift in healthcare towards preventive measures rather than just treatment has also been a crucial factor. "Recognising early signs of severe diseases like cancer allows for preventive steps, making healthcare more affordable and effective," Dr Nipat explained. The integration of artificial intelligence in diagnostics further enhances treatment accuracy, providing immense benefits to patients. Bumrungrad International Hospital, a key player in the sector, caters to patients seeking treatment for serious conditions such as cancer and heart surgery. The clientele primarily hails from Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Ethiopia, and Kenya, with burgeoning opportunities from Myanmar, Cambodia, Bangladesh, and China. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot from the Tourism Authority of Thailand noted an uptick in tourists from the Middle East, particularly Saudi Arabia, with around 200 flights arriving weekly. The trend is bolstered by the appeal of Thailand’s cooler weather and school holidays in July and August, reported Bangkok Post. Thailand's blend of top-tier medical services, affordability, and welcoming atmosphere positions it to captivate a growing share of the lucrative medical tourism market, with strong support anticipated from both the government and private sectors. -- 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand's Major Crackdown: 177,000 Myanmar Workers Arrested Picture courtesy: ELEVEN Myanmar In an operation spanning 85 days, Thai authorities have arrested 177,804 Myanmar workers as part of a broader crackdown on illegal labour. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337230-thailands-major-crackdown-177000-myanmar-workers-arrested/

Picture courtesy: ELEVEN Myanmar In an operation spanning 85 days, Thai authorities have arrested 177,804 Myanmar workers as part of a broader crackdown on illegal labour. Taking place from 5th June to 28th August, this campaign saw inspections at 16,776 workplaces, factories, and construction sites across Thailand. Overall, authorities apprehended 232,906 illegal workers during this period, according to the Thai Ministry of Labour. Breakdowns of arrests highlight Myanmar nationals clearly leading with 177,804 detained, followed by 34,620 Cambodians and 13,482 Laotians. Among the smaller numbers were 145 Vietnamese and 6,855 other nationals. In addition to the mass arrests, officials also targeted 591 workplaces and apprehended a further 1,553 illegal migrant workers, highlighting 933 Myanmar nationals among them. Cambodia contributed to 224 of these arrests, with Laos and Vietnam adding 203 and 26 workers respectively. Penalties were issued to the employers and employees alike. Illegally employed foreign workers face fines from 5,000 to 50,000 Baht and subsequent deportation. These workers will also face a two-year ban from re-entry to Thailand for employment purposes. For employers, the penalties are severe — fines range from 10,000 to 100,000 Baht per illegal worker, and repeat offenders may be incarcerated for up to one year with fines stretching between 50,000 and 200,000 Baht. These employers could also face a three-year ban from hiring any migrant workers. The Thai Ministry of Labour is taking serious steps to ensure compliance with labour laws, aiming to regulate the workforce and curb illegal employment. This extensive operation reflects the government's strong stance against illegal labour, reinforcing the necessity for proper documentation and legal pathways for employment within the country. -- 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Russian Man Found Dead Near Karon Beach, Police Suspect He was Murdered By Goongnang Suksawat Karon, Phuket– On Tuesday, August 3rd, a Russian man was found dead near Karon Beach, with police suspecting foul play. The Karon Police were alerted by a local resident at 1:10 P.M. about a body discovered in a ditch near the Naga statue. Upon arrival, police, accompanied by a doctor and the Phuket Express, found the body of a foreign man, shirtless and wearing shorts. The man had severe slash wounds on both arms and a head injury. Police believe the man, identified only as Mr. Ilia, 27, a Russian national, had been dead for at least 24 hours before his body was discovered. There were no signs of a struggle at the scene, however. A doctor on the scene suggested the death was unnatural, and an autopsy was planned to be conducted to determine the exact cause of death of the victim. Near the body, police found a black bag containing two passports. One passport belonged to Mr. Ilia, and the other to a Russian woman. Records show that Mr. Ilia entered Thailand on April 24th of this year with a 90-day visa exemption. Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS -- 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Academic Says Dissolution of Pheu Thai Party 'Unlikely' FILE - Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, left, with, his daughter Paetongtarn, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2023.(AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) The dissolution of Pheu Thai, Thailand's major ruling party, by the Constitutional Court appears improbable, according to academic Attachak Satayanuruk from Chiang Mai University. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337225-academic-says-dissolution-of-pheu-thai-party-unlikely/

FILE - Thailand's former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, left, with, his daughter Paetongtarn, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, Aug. 22, 2023.(AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) The dissolution of Pheu Thai, Thailand's major ruling party, by the Constitutional Court appears improbable, according to academic Attachak Satayanuruk from Chiang Mai University. Pheu Thai, influentially guided by Thaksin Shinawatra, has faced allegations of unlawful dominion by Thaksin, who allegedly orchestrated the appointment of his daughter, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, as party leader and potential prime minister. Attachak believes that despite the accusations, the Constitutional Court is likely to avoid dissolving Pheu Thai given the underlying political dynamics. He suggests that the unnamed powers-that-be support the court’s decisions on politically charged cases, ensuring Thaksin's party remains intact to maintain their vested interests. These political tensions have emerged amid a few lawsuits filed seeking Pheu Thai’s dissolution. These complaints accuse the party and its leaders, including Paetongtarn, of breaching political ethics by acting under Thaksin’s unlawful influence. It’s notable that Thaksin, previously convicted of power abuse and misconduct, cannot be a registered party member yet still allegedly wields significant influence. Despite the gravity of these accusations, Attachak posits that the Constitutional Court will likely not impose extreme sanctions, allowing Pheu Thai to continue its role in the political landscape. He references previous contentious decisions like the dissolution of reformist parties Future Forward and Move Forward, and the surprising coalition formation of Pheu Thai with its former adversaries, including Palang Pracharath and Ruam Thai Sang Chart. Furthermore, Attachak mentions the historic impeachment of ex-Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, coupling this with his conviction that Thaksin will strive to maintain harmonious relationships with all coalition partners such as Bhumjaithai, led by Newin Chidchob, and Ruam Thai Sang Chart, under Prayut Chan-o-cha. The academic predicts Paetongtarn’s Pheu Thai-led administration will encounter significant challenges in governance, struggling to balance national interests against internal political maneuvers. He surmises that increasing pressure might compel Paetongtarn to dissolve the House of Representatives and call an election within the next 18 months. -- 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Court Dismisses Case Against Swiss Man Accused of Assaulting Doctor Picture courtesy: Thai Rath A Thai court has dismissed charges against Urs Fehr, a 45-year-old Swiss national, who was accused of kicking Dr. Thandao Chandam, a local physician, at Cape Yamu beach, Phuket. The incident allegedly took place in February, but the court has now exonerated Fehr due to insufficient evidence. Dr. Thandao, associated with Dibuk Hospital, claimed that Fehr had kicked her while she was sitting on stairs, admiring the moon on the night of 24th February. Following her complaint, Fehr's visa was revoked on March 5th. The acting governor, Sattha Thongkham, took swift action by instructing the Phuket Immigration Police to cancel his visa. This directive was carried out the following day by Pol. Maj. Gen. Songprot Sirisukha, commander of Immigration Police Bureau 6. Despite these actions, the court offered the defendant the benefit of the doubt, leading to the dismissal of the charges. Dr. Thandao declined to provide any public comments following the court's decision. Fehr has been pushing back against his visa cancellation. He appointed a representative to appeal to the Immigration Police Review Committee, seeking to have the revocation overturned. However, the outcome of this appeal remains uncertain. This case has garnered significant local and international attention, highlighting the complexities and challenges in cross-cultural legal incidents. The swift and decisive actions taken by local authorities underscore the seriousness with which such allegations are treated, yet the court's ruling reminds us of the importance of maintaining a fair judicial process. As proceedings unfold, the implications for both Fehr and Dr. Thandao are yet to be fully realised, but this decision marks a significant turn in a case that has been closely watched by many. -- 2024-09-04 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 4 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1337224-thailand-live-wednesday-4-september-2024/

Russian Tourist Found Dead Near Karon Beach in Mysterious Circumstances Authorities are investigating the mysterious death of a Russian tourist whose body was discovered near Karon Beach in Phuket. The deceased, identified as a young male, was found in a small canal, close to the beachfront. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337200-russian-tourist-found-dead-near-karon-beach-in-mysterious-circumstances/

British man escapes serious injury in Patong Hill motorbike fire Photo courtesy of Phuket News A British man narrowly avoided serious injury when his motorbike skidded and caught fire on Patong Hill yesterday. The incident occurred as the 62 year old rider was navigating the downhill slope past the Tiger Temple Shrine on his way to Patong Beach. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337194-british-man-escapes-serious-injury-in-patong-hill-motorbike-fire/

FILE - Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Due to a lack of evidence, the Phuket Provincial Court acquitted a Swiss man today, who had been charged with assaulting a female Thai doctor when she has allegedly trespassed on his property. Swiss man in Phuket acquitted of assaulting doctor Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337204-swiss-man-in-phuket-acquitted-of-assaulting-doctor/

UPDATE: British man arrested for illegal beauty clinic, causing facial paralysis by Petch Petpailin Photo via DailyNews Koh Pha Ngan Tourist Police in the southern province of Surat Thani raided an illegal beauty clinic and arrested its British owner today after a foreign client received services at the clinic and suffered facial paralysis. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337150-british-man-arrested-for-operating-illegal-beauty-clinic/?do=findComment&comment=19202616

British man arrested for illegal beauty clinic, causing facial paralysis by Petch Petpailin Photo via DailyNews Koh Pha Ngan Tourist Police in the southern province of Surat Thani raided an illegal beauty clinic and arrested its British owner today after a foreign client received services at the clinic and suffered facial paralysis. The foreign client, whose identity was not disclosed, experienced swelling and red bruises and was unable to control her facial muscles after receiving a Botox injection at the beauty clinic. She then sought treatment at a hospital on the island and later filed a complaint with the police. Officers interviewed the foreign victim and raided the clinic this morning, September 3. The illegal beauty clinic was operated in a white house rented by a 42 year old Englishman named Tomas. According to Daily News, there was no sign or advertisement about the clinic at the front of the house. There was only a note for a delivery worker stating, “Delivery to Tom Foley, Jessica Piff, 6 Moo 5 Koh Phangan.” The media did not clarify the identities of Tom Foley and Jessica Piff. Tomas was present at the house and led officers in inspecting the premises. Some of the rooms were converted into a clinic, while others were used for storage and as living quarters for Tomas. The British man admitted to renting the house for 29,000 baht per month to operate the beauty clinic without a permit for the past five months. He mainly offered Botox and filler injections to clients. Some clients came to the house for the service, while others requested him to provide the service at their homes. Chinese products Tomas explained that he asked his clients to book services by contacting the account “Botox Koh Phangan” via the WhatsApp application. The injections were priced between 800 and 1,000 baht. The Botox and fillers he used on clients were ordered from China via the Alibaba shopping app, with some supplies also sourced within Thailand. More than 1,000 pieces of medication and equipment were confiscated. Tomas faces five charges, including: Sections 16 and 57 of the Hospital Act: operating a healthcare centre without a licence. The penalty is imprisonment of up to five years, a fine of up to 100,000 baht, or both. Section 12 of the Drug Act: selling drugs without permission. The penalty is imprisonment of up to five years and a fine of up to 10,000 baht. Section 72(4) of the Drug Act: selling unregistered medicines. The penalty is imprisonment of up to three years, a fine of up to 5,000 baht, or both. Section 246 of the Customs Act: hiding, distributing, taking away, or buying an untaxed product. The penalty is imprisonment of up to five years, a fine of four times the product’s value, or both. Sections 8 and 101 of the Emergency Decree on Managing Foreign Workers: working without a work permit. The penalty is a fine of 5,000 to 50,000 baht, deportation, and a ban on applying for a two-year work permit. The Commissioner of the Tourist Police, Saksira Phueak-aum, emphasised to tourist police officers in nearby provinces the need to investigate illegal activities involving foreigners in the area. Photo via DailyNews Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Italian illegally detained by Burmese woman after visa dispute Photo of Petch Photo via Matichon An Italian man sought help from the Thai police after being detained by a Burmese woman following an argument over a visa fee in a company office on Koh Pha Ngan, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337144-italian-tourist-locked-in-office-over-visa-refund-dispute/?do=findComment&comment=19202427

Italian illegally detained by Burmese woman after visa dispute Photo of Petch Photo via Matichon An Italian man sought help from the Thai police after being detained by a Burmese woman following an argument over a visa fee in a company office on Koh Pha Ngan, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani. Officers from Koh Pha Ngan Police Station and the Tourist Police rushed to the company office on the island after the 34 year old Italian man, named Pietro Nigro, requested assistance. Upon arrival, officers found Nigro sitting inside a room within the office, while the Burmese woman, 25 year old Su Su Aye, stood at the door. The front door was locked but the police could see the Italian man waving his hands and signalling for help through a glass window. The officers then knocked on the door and instructed a Thai staff member, later identified as Nanticha, to open it. The police demanded the release of Nigro, who broke into tears immediately upon exiting the room. Nigro told the police that he came to the company to inquire about his visa renewal and work permit. He demanded a refund but the company would not agree. When they could not resolve the matter, the Burmese woman, Su Su Aye, locked him in the room. Nigro did not disclose to the public the reasons behind wanting his money back. Burmese worker Su Su Aye recounted that Nigro filmed her with his mobile phone while they were arguing about the visa fee refund. In response, she took out her phone and recorded him as well, and later contacted a lawyer to order Nigro to delete the videos. While waiting for the lawyer, an Indian customer arrived at the office for a visa renewal service. Su Su Aye had to attend to the customer and asked Nigro to wait in the room until the lawyer arrived. However, Nigro attempted to flee, prompting her to lock the door. Su Su Aye faces two charges for her actions, including: Section 310 of the Criminal Law: Detaining a person leading to death or severe injury. The penalty is imprisonment for three to 15 years. Sections 8 and 101 of the Emergency Decree on Managing Foreign Workers: Working without a Work Permit. The penalty is a fine of 5,000 to 50,000 baht, deportation, and a ban on applying for a two-year work permit. The police confirmed that the company where the incident occurred had a valid licence to register and renew visas for foreigners. Two company mobile phones and Su Su Aye’s phone were seized for investigation. Photo via MGR Online Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe