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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

Eighth Fatality in Bangkok Methanol Poisoning Crisis Picture courtesy: Daily Star The methanol poisoning crisis in Bangkok has claimed its eighth victim, with five others still on ventilators. The situation continues to develop, with health officials and police tirelessly working to trace the source and prevent more casualties. The latest death occurred at Kasemrad Ramkhamhaeng Hospital, with the patient already in critical condition upon arrival. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337153-eighth-fatality-in-bangkok-methanol-poisoning-crisis/

The methanol poisoning crisis in Bangkok has claimed its eighth victim, with five others still on ventilators. The situation continues to develop, with health officials and police tirelessly working to trace the source and prevent more casualties. The latest death occurred at Kasemrad Ramkhamhaeng Hospital, with the patient already in critical condition upon arrival. The Department of Medical Services and the Department of Disease Control have confirmed that a total of 44 people have been affected by the deadly methanol poisoning. Out of these, 30 have recovered, but sadly eight have lost their lives. Six are still under medical treatment, with five on ventilators, indicating the severity of the cases. Hospitals across Bangkok have been treating patients from this crisis. Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital has one patient in critical condition, another in moderate condition, and one in stable condition. Rajavithi Hospital and Lerdsin Hospital each have a critical patient, while Chiang Kham Hospital also has a critical case. This crisis first came to light on August 28 at Nopparat Rajathanee Hospital, where Pairoj Suratnawanich, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Medical Services, reported 22 patients being treated for suspected methanol poisoning. The patients exhibited severe symptoms like difficulty in breathing, pointing to the toxic effects of methanol. Police investigations have identified that the methanol poisoning cases are linked to the consumption of homemade alcohol in Bangkok’s Khlong Sam Wa district. Initial findings showed affected individuals consuming alcohol from different sources, not just the first 18 identified locations. Five new clusters have been detected at Nikhom Lat Krabang Market, Suwinthawong, Maruay Market, and Ram Inthra 44. Picture courtesy: Daily Star -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe Authorities are focusing on potential links to Phatrasa, known locally as Je Pu, a producer and mixer of homemade liquor. Other suspects include Surasak, aged 46, and Surachai, aged 44, who own a white liquor factory. The investigation continues as officials aim to halt the widespread impact of this crisis.

Thai man walks over 200km to hospital for daughter’s treatment by Petch Petpailin Photo via TikTok/ @ritin0607 A Thai man walked over 200 kilometres to take his one year old daughter, who suffers from heart disease and a severe lung infection, to a hospital in Chiang Mai‘s city centre. A rescue team came to his aid after observing him weeping by the roadside. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337152-thai-man-walks-over-200km-to-hospital-for-daughter’s-treatment/

A Thai man walked over 200 kilometres to take his one year old daughter, who suffers from heart disease and a severe lung infection, to a hospital in Chiang Mai‘s city centre. A rescue team came to his aid after observing him weeping by the roadside. The rescuer from the Nopparat Rescue Foundation in Chiang Mai offered a free ride to the 24 year old single father and his one year old daughter on Friday, August 30, after witnessing the man sitting and crying because he could not afford a trip back home. The foundation shared a heart-wrenching video of their assistance with the pair on its TikTok account, which garnered significant attention from Thai TikTok users and news agencies. Many netizens expressed a desire to help the father and daughter. In response, the rescuers disclosed the story to the media to facilitate support from those who wished to assist them. by Petch Petpailin Photo via TikTok/ @ritin0607 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

British man arrested for operating illegal beauty clinic Picture courtesy: Daily News A British man has been arrested on Koh Phangan for operating an illegal beauty clinic, where he provided Botox and filler injections to customers, sparking a series of severe allergic reactions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337150-british-man-arrested-for-operating-illegal-beauty-clinic/

Picture courtesy: Daily News A British man has been arrested on Koh Phangan for operating an illegal beauty clinic, where he provided Botox and filler injections to customers, sparking a series of severe allergic reactions. On September 3, concerned tourists reported the unpermitted beauty business to the Tourist Police Service Unit on Koh Phangan. This prompted an investigation led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Pueak-am, Commander of the Tourist Police. Pol. Lt. Col. Winij Boonchit, Inspector of Tourist Police Sub-Division 5, Division 2, along with local health officers and immigration authorities, conducted a raid on the premises. Mr. Thomas, a 42-year-old British national, was arrested in a rented house in Moo 5, Koh Phangan Subdistrict. Over 100 items of evidence, including medical drugs and equipment valued at approximately 3.5 million baht, were seized. Thomas faces several serious charges: - Establishing a nursing home without permission under Section 16 of the Hospital Act B.E. 2541. - Distributing drugs without proper permits under Section 12. - Possessing unregistered drugs and distributing products that bypassed customs procedures. - Performing beauty enhancement work beyond the scope of his legal rights as a foreigner. Admitting to the allegations, Thomas revealed he had been running the beauty clinic for five months, renting the property for 29,000 baht per month.clin Picture courtesy: Daily News He offered in-house and on-location services, promoted through the WhatsApp application under "Botox Koh Phangan," with prices ranging from 800 to 10,000 baht depending on the service. He sourced the products primarily through Alibaba from China and some locally within Thailand. Customers who received the injections complained of various adverse reactions including swelling, redness, bruising at the injection site, and severe allergic responses. Several reported stiff facial muscles, unable to control their expressions, and sought medical attention at a local hospital. Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Pueak-am has mandated a crackdown on similar illegal activities by foreign nationals in tourist areas, ensuring stringent legal action against all offenders to maintain public safety and health standards. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Mother Files Complaint Against Filipino Teacher for Slapping 6-Year-Old Picture courtesy: CH3 On September 2, at Phaya Thai Police Station, Mr. Kanthas Phongpaiboonwet filed a complaint after a Filipino teacher allegedly slapped his 6-year-old son on the ear, causing inflammation and bleeding. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337148-mother-files-complaint-against-filipino-teacher-for-slapping-6-year-old/

Picture courtesy: CH3 On September 2, at Phaya Thai Police Station, Mr. Kanthas Phongpaiboonwet filed a complaint after a Filipino teacher allegedly slapped his 6-year-old son on the ear, causing inflammation and bleeding. When confronted, the school did not offer help, and the teacher suggested paying to settle the issue. Ms. A, the boy's mother, said the incident occurred during an English class when her son struggled with a test and scored a C, prompting the teacher's reaction. Initially, she did not realize the severity of her son's injury, but after he refused to return to school and was diagnosed with acute external otitis, she decided to take legal action. Despite their complaints, the school allowed the teacher to continue teaching until the semester's end. Mr. Kanthas coordinated with the police, who will investigate the case with a multidisciplinary team. Pol. Col. Watcharawi Thammasema stated that the teacher's employer would be contacted, and the Immigration Bureau would be involved to check the teacher's work permit. The police have assured the family they will ensure justice is served. -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Second-hand tsunami: Used car flood drives Thai sellers to despair by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of MotorwatThailand A torrent of high-quality used cars flooding the market might sound like a bargain hunter’s dream but it’s turning into a nightmare for sellers. While buyers drive off with the deals, automakers in Thailand are hitting potholes trying to move new stock, and used car dealers are struggling to keep sales engines running. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337145-second-hand-tsunami-used-car-flood-drives-thai-sellers-to-despair/

A torrent of high-quality used cars flooding the market might sound like a bargain hunter’s dream but it’s turning into a nightmare for sellers. While buyers drive off with the deals, automakers in Thailand are hitting potholes trying to move new stock, and used car dealers are struggling to keep sales engines running. The second-hand car market skidded to a halt in the first half of 2024, and though industry insiders hope for a slight uptick, forecasts for 2025 already look like a car crash waiting to happen. The number of repossessed cars zooming past 200,000 this year is only adding fuel to the fire. This gluttony of gleaming motors should be a seller’s paradise, but with sales from January to June faltering, dealers are strapped for cash to snap up these unwanted wheels. Many of these repossessed rides are in mint condition, with banks and finance companies barely getting the keys back before throwing them on the auction block. But it’s not all smooth driving. High interest rates on second-hand auto loans and sagging consumer buying power are deflating any chance at higher resale prices, says Vithavat Thongves of the Federation “We are monitoring car seizures, which keep increasing this year amid the economic slowdown that has lasted for months.” The year 2023 saw a jaw-dropping 250,000 vehicles seized, a stark contrast to the usual 150,000 to 180,000 in healthier times, according to recent figures. An electric vehicle charges at the Fast Auto Show Thailand, picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Yuphin has pointed out that most of these impounded rides are trusty pickups, typically owned by small business operators hit hard by financial woes. “It’s the small businesses, the SMEs, still reeling from the pandemic and current economic slump, struggling to stay afloat with little liquidity.” As if things couldn’t get worse, used car dealers have been forced into a brutal price-cutting frenzy akin to the electric vehicle (EV) market price war. The oversupply glut in the used car market has forced many sellers to slash prices just to get customers through the door. Naturally, the longer these motors sit unsold, the more their value nosedives, according to the club. Pinyo Tanawatcharaporn, head honcho of used car outfit Yo Ratchada and former president of the Association of Used Cars, added that the EV price war is making matters worse. “The used car market had never been in crisis until Chinese EV makers became powerful players in the global and Thai markets. They are causing disruptions to the automotive industry and its supply chains.” Some Chinese EV manufacturers have slashed car prices to attract customers, with discounts reaching up to 100,000 baht, said Pinyo. Falling prices have led prospective buyers to delay their purchases, waiting to see if prices will drop further, he explained. Investment return In July, EV Primus Co, a local distributor of EVs under multiple brands, including Chinese marque Wuling, launched the compact sedan EV Wuling Binguo in Bangkok for less than 500,000 baht, said EV Primus chief executive Pitaya Tanadamrongsak. “The retail price was set following a joint discussion between SGMW and my company, which expects to receive an appropriate investment return. This is not a price war.” SGMW, which stands for SAIC-GM-Wuling, manufactures Wuling vehicles. Pitaya mentioned that companies could sell EVs at low prices due to the reduced cost of lithium-ion batteries, a key EV component, now priced at 100,000 baht. Cheaper auto parts enable manufacturers to offer more competitive prices. “We will not participate in a price war or price dumping. We have chosen to give our customers the best price since day one.” Zeekr Intelligent Technology, a Chinese EV maker under the Zeekr brand, stated it would not engage in price-cutting tactics to avoid damaging the reputation of Chinese EVs and eroding consumer trust. The company intends to market its Zeekr X compact electric sports utility vehicles to the luxury segment, said Bao Zhuangfei, head of Zeekr’s Southeast Asia region. The Electric Vehicle Association of Thailand (EVAT) is closely monitoring EV price trends in the country. Chinese companies Former EVAT president Krisda Utamote acknowledged that the decrease in new EV prices impacts second-hand EV sales, but expects the effect to be short-lived. He attributed the lower prices of new EVs to some Chinese firms’ efforts to reduce their stocks. Prospects for used car sales are expected to improve in the second half of the year as buyers gain better access to auto loans, despite some ongoing challenges. Financial service providers frequently reject loan applications due to high debt levels, fearing non-performing loans. However, after discussions with the Association of Used Cars, finance companies may relax their lending criteria, said Vichai Suwanasilar, president of the association. Financiers have agreed to approve more loan applications from used car buyers if the vehicle is certified by the association, which assists in screening used cars, Vichai explained. Interest rates for used car loans range from 2.3% to 7%, according to the association, reported Bangkok Post. Despite these financial relief measures, the impact of banks’ stricter lending criteria is expected to become more apparent next year, Vichai noted. “A shortage of used cars is possible in the first and second quarters of 2025 due to this year’s sluggish new car sales. This scenario would result in fewer cars entering the used car market.” by Bob Scott TOP Picture courtesy of MotorwatThailand Full story: The Thaiger -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Italian Tourist Locked in Office Over Visa Refund Dispute Picture courtesy: Facebook/ข่าว สวท.สมุย An Italian man called the police for help after being locked in an office by a Myanmar woman following a dispute over a visa refund. This unusual incident took place on the serene island of Koh Phangan in Surat Thani Province on August 30. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337144-italian-tourist-locked-in-office-over-visa-refund-dispute/

Picture courtesy: Facebook/ข่าว สวท.สมุย An Italian man called the police for help after being locked in an office by a Myanmar woman following a dispute over a visa refund. This unusual incident took place on the serene island of Koh Phangan in Surat Thani Province on August 30. Mr. Pietro, a 34-year-old Italian tourist, found himself in a dire situation at an office that handles visa extensions for travellers like himself. The office, part of a registered service company in Moo 8, Koh Phangan Subdistrict, was the scene of a tense negotiation gone wrong. Pietro had visited to request a refund for his visa and work permit fees but ended up being detained instead. The 191 emergency hotline received Pietro's distress call about being locked in the office. This alerted the local police. Superintendent Pol. Col. Panya Niratimanon and District Chief Mr. Noppadon Kaomali, in coordination with the Koh Phangan Immigration Office, quickly sent a team to investigate. Upon arrival, authorities found the office's door locked, with 25-year-old Miss Su Su Aye, a Myanmar national and employee, blocking the exit. Pietro was seen signalling for help through the door. Police negotiated the release with another staff member, Ms. Nunticha, who eventually opened the door, freeing a visibly emotional Pietro. The backstory revealed that Pietro’s request for a refund had escalated quickly. When negotiations failed, both parties began recording the interaction on their phones. Miss Su Su Aye eventually locked the door and detained Pietro, waiting for legal advice on having the recordings deleted. In response, the police charged Miss Su Su Aye with unlawful detention and unauthorised work beyond her permitted duties. Three mobile phones used in recording the incident were seized for further evidence. Miss Su Su Aye has been handed over to the Koh Phangan Police Station for legal proceedings. So far, no further comments have been made from either party or the service company. Picture courtesy: Facebook/ข่าว สวท.สมุย -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Tuesday 3 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337141-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-3-september-2024/

The Minister of Transport announced that the Southern Land Bridge megaproject will proceed as the government drafts the necessary Southern Economic Corridor bill. This one-trillion-baht project aims to create a shipping shortcut between Ranong and Chumphon, providing an alternative route for cargo ships between the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. The SEC Act is expected to come into effect by September next year. Phuket's Royal Forest Centre will close the site of a large Buddha statue on a hill near Karon Beach due the risk of further landslides, following the deaths of 13 people on August 23rd. An inspection revealed that five of the 20 rai of land used for the statue were outside the permitted area.. Officials have seized six temple buildings, filed a police complaint against the foundation that built them, and posted seizure notices on the encroached land, fearing further landslides. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra told media that she aims to finalise her cabinet line-up this week, before submission for royal assent. The new Cabinet is expected to retain the current finance and foreign ministers but will likely see 11 new ministers and deputy ministers. A Rayong court has ordered a recycling company to pay 1.7 billion baht in compensation for environmental rehabilitation after industrial waste leaked from its storage facility since 2011. The company violated the law by failing to recycle hazardous waste and instead discharged it into the environment. Local residents have been complaining about the pollution since 2013. Around the region South Korea's health ministry said it was deploying military doctors to assist in some hospital emergency rooms due to a shortage of medical staff, but disputed a warning by some physicians that the system was on the verge of collapse. Adding that reports that some major hospitals had suspended ER operations were false. Thousands of trainee doctors, walked off the job in February to protest against a plan to increase medical student numbers by 2,000 a year to meet what authorities project will be a severe shortage of doctors. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Thunder showers 32 32C degrees celsius Bangkok: sunny, Thunder showers 32 Pattaya: Heavy rain for most of the day 30 Phuket and the south: Bright with thundershowers 30 Hia Hin: Cloudy with rain on and off most of the day 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 2024-09-03 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourists Under Investigation for Illegal Fishing in National Park Picture courtesy: MGR online - ณัฐวุฒิ แซ่เอีย Authorities in Thailand have launched a legal investigation into a couple caught fishing illegally within the protected boundaries of Khao Yai National Park. This incident was revealed when the couple posted photos of themselves angling in the park on social media. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337133-tourists-under-investigation-for-illegal-fishing-in-national-park/

Picture courtesy: MGR online - ณัฐวุฒิ แซ่เอีย Authorities in Thailand have launched a legal investigation into a couple caught fishing illegally within the protected boundaries of Khao Yai National Park. This incident was revealed when the couple posted photos of themselves angling in the park on social media. The images, shared in a social media group dedicated to the national park, showed the couple enjoying a fishing trip at Thung Kwang, a popular tourist spot within the park. Accompanied by a casual caption about a relaxing weekend, the post sparked immediate backlash from online users who noted that fishing within the park is strictly prohibited. Chaiya Huayhongthong, the head of Khao Yai National Park, confirmed that legal action has been initiated against the couple. "We have instructed our legal team to file a police report against these individuals," he stated. "Their actions are a clear violation of the National Parks Act and constitute wildlife poaching." Under the National Parks Act of 2019, engaging in activities such as luring, capturing, or harming wildlife within a national park is strictly forbidden. Additionally, the act prohibits the use of any tools or weapons for hunting or capturing animals, stressing the severity of the couple's infraction. Chaiya expressed disappointment over the couple's blatant disregard for the park’s regulations and stressed the importance of visitor education regarding the rules governing national parks. "We have never encountered such a blatant violation before," he said. "We urge all visitors to familiarize themselves with the park's guidelines before their visit." The incident has raised further questions about the enforcement of park regulations and the need for stricter measures to protect wildlife and natural resources. Resident wildlife and delicate ecosystems within Khao Yai National Park face constant threats from human activities, making adherence to regulations crucial for conservation efforts. -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Paetongtarn Shinawatra Faces Political Crisis Over New Legal Challenges Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Paetongtarn Shinawatra could lose her position as Prime Minister and leader of the Pheu Thai party following new lawsuits linked to the impeachment of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, last month. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337131-paetongtarn-shinawatra-faces-political-crisis-over-new-legal-challenges/

Paetongtarn Shinawatra could lose her position as Prime Minister and leader of the Pheu Thai party following new lawsuits linked to the impeachment of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, last month. Paetongtarn, daughter of Pheu Thai’s de facto leader Thaksin Shinawatra, is under intense scrutiny. Fresh lawsuits have been filed with the Constitutional Court via the Election Commission, seeking her removal from office. The lawsuits claim that Thaksin orchestrated her appointment and that she did not adhere to constitutional and political party laws. These legal actions also call for the dissolution of the Pheu Thai party, the main faction in the current coalition government. This turmoil is rooted in the impeachment of former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who was ousted by a narrow 5:4 decision in the Constitutional Court. Srettha’s downfall was triggered by his appointment of Pichit Chuenban, a former lawyer and convict, as a minister without formal endorsement from the Pheu Thai executive board. This controversial decision, allegedly influenced by Thaksin, led to Srettha’s removal from office. Paetongtarn and the Pheu Thai party are accused of being under Thaksin’s undue influence. Thaksin, who cannot legally participate in the party, is suspected of manipulating key decisions, including the problematic appointment of Pichit. If found guilty of violating political ethics, Paetongtarn and the entire Pheu Thai executive board, along with all current cabinet members, could be banned from holding political office for several years. The legal precedent set by Srettha’s impeachment serves as a basis for the new lawsuits, which could dramatically alter the Thai political landscape. Despite these challenges, Paetongtarn and her newly formed cabinet are scheduled to participate in official ceremonies with King Maha Vajiralongkorn. This includes an audience, formal appointment, and an oath-taking ceremony, set to occur in the middle of this month, before they commence their governance duties. However, with the imminent court decisions, the future of Paetongtarn’s leadership and the stability of the Pheu Thai party hang in the balance. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Tourist Police and Anti Drug Officers Patrol Pattaya Walking Street to Deter Crimes By Aim Tanakorn A team of Tourist Police and officers from the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) jointly inspected Walking Street in South Pattaya on the night of September 1st, to bolster tourist’s confidence, as the high season approaches. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337128-tourist-police-and-anti-drug-officers-patrol-pattaya-walking-street-to-deter-crimes/

A team of Tourist Police and officers from the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) jointly inspected Walking Street in South Pattaya on the night of September 1st, to bolster tourist’s confidence, as the high season approaches. The inspection, which took place around 7:30 PM, was led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Panurat Lakboon, Secretary-General of the ONCB, and Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-am, Commissioner of the Tourist Police Bureau. The officers began the patrol at the entrance of Walking Street and were joined by Mr. Phichanon Thawisuk, Banglamung Deputy District Chief, Pattaya Police, and several entertainment venue operators. Following the observation, the officers greeted 100 security personnel from various venues along Walking Street. These security workers are tasked with monitoring and preventing any violence among both domestic and international tourists. By Aim Tanakorn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Big Buddha Temple in Phuket Closed Amid Forest Encroachment Probe Picture courtesy: Thai PBS The renowned Big Buddha Temple in Phuket’s Karon district has come under scrutiny, halting all activities amid an investigation into its potential encroachment on national forest reserves. This follows a tragic mudslide on August 23 that claimed 13 lives near the mountain’s base. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337125-big-buddha-temple-in-phuket-closed-amid-forest-encroachment-probe/

Picture courtesy: Thai PBS The renowned Big Buddha Temple in Phuket’s Karon district has come under scrutiny, halting all activities amid an investigation into its potential encroachment on national forest reserves. This follows a tragic mudslide on August 23 that claimed 13 lives near the mountain’s base. Authorities displayed "Stop" and "No Entry" signs at the temple entrance today, per an order from the Phuket Sangha Office. The temple’s abbot had already been instructed to cease all construction activities on Khao Nark Kerd Mountain, where the 45m tall, white marble-covered Big Buddha statue stands. Forest Department officials suspect that the fatal mudslide was exacerbated by illegal deforestation on the mountain slopes, part of a national forest reserve. The illegal clearing may have destabilised the terrain, contributing to the disaster. The Big Buddha, a 45m high and 25.45m wide statue in a seated position, faces Chalong Bay and was declared the 'Buddhist Treasure of Phuket' by Thailand's Supreme Patriarch in 2008. The landmark offers panoramic 360° views of the island, including sights of Phuket Town, Kata, Karon, and Chalong Bay, making it a staple in global tourist guides, reported Thain PBS. This popular tourist destination now finds itself embroiled in a complex legal and environmental issue. The investigation aims to determine the extent of any unauthorized encroachment and the subsequent environmental impact. The temple, known for its spiritual and aesthetic significance, stands shuttered until further notice as authorities work to get to the bottom of these serious allegations. Both local and international visitors who had planned to visit the temple will now find the site off-limits. The outcome of this investigation could set a significant precedent for how such issues are handled in Thailand, balancing cultural heritage with environmental conservation. Local officials and environmental advocates urge patience and cooperation during this sensitive time, as the investigation could lead to substantial reforms in how religious and historical sites interact with protected natural areas. -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

British man, accused of drug dealing, arrested in Phuket Picture courtesy: MGR Online British authorities, in collaboration with Thailand’s Crime Suppression Division, have successfully tracked down and arrested a 28-year-old British national, Mr. Ben, who had fled England after being sentenced to life imprisonment for drug trafficking offences. The arrest took place today (September 2nd) at a restaurant in Rawai, a district in Phuket. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337124-british-man-accused-of-drug-dealing-arrested-in-phuket/