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Solving the Transit Scam: Protecting Foreigners in Thailand Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thailand's national police chief, Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphuet, is taking decisive action to address the growing issue of foreign nationals being deceived into using the country as a transit point. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349408-solving-the-transit-scam-protecting-foreigners-in-thailand/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Thailand's national police chief, Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphuet, is taking decisive action to address the growing issue of foreign nationals being deceived into using the country as a transit point. In a recent meeting, he focused on combating illegal immigration and transnational criminal activities perpetrated by foreign groups misusing Thailand's openness. The meeting, held both in-person at the Royal Thai Police Headquarters and via video conferencing, brought together senior police officials, including Deputy Police Chiefs Pol. Gen. Thana Chuwong and Pol. Gen. Prachya Wongsook, as well as representatives from related agencies. Central to the agenda was the launch of comprehensive measures to curb crimes that threaten public wellbeing and national security. This includes tackling organised crime by foreign entities and ensuring strict regulation of immigration and employment practices to protect Thailand’s international reputation and tourism industry. Key directives include: 1. Strict monitoring of police conduct to prevent corruption, with senior officials accountable for oversight. 2. Coordination among various police divisions and related agencies to enforce local and national crime prevention strategies. This includes the deployment of checkpoints and collaborative investigations to root out illegal activities, especially at border regions like Mae Sot in Tak province, known for substantial illegal crossings. 3. Improved data sharing and operational integration spearheaded by the Immigration Bureau to keep track of foreign nationals' movements and activities. The actions are in line with directives from the Prime Minister, aiming to dismantle networks involved in illegal trafficking and scams while boosting Thailand’s image as a safe and welcoming destination for tourists. The initiative seeks not just enforcement but a national effort to root out illicit activities impacting the country's economy and international standing. Authorities have been tasked to demonstrate tangible progress within a week, particularly in hotspot areas. In highlighting the collaborative efforts and public outreach required, Pol. Gen. Kittirat implores Thai citizens to play their part in presenting the kingdom as a hospitable nation, thus fostering a positive environment for tourism and boosting economic growth, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-01-21

Passenger Shocked as Taxi Driver Found Dead in Pathum Thani Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In a distressing incident on 20th January in Pathum Thani, a passenger boarded a taxi only to discover the driver had passed away inside the vehicle. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349404-passenger-shocked-as-taxi-driver-found-dead-in-pathum-thani/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In a distressing incident on 20th January in Pathum Thani, a passenger boarded a taxi only to discover the driver had passed away inside the vehicle. The taxi, a traditional green-and-yellow model registered in Bangkok, was parked by a bus stop on Rangsit-Pathum Thani Road. The driver, identified as 67-year-old Mr Somnuk, was found lifeless in the driver’s seat. Local vendors reported that the taxi had been parked since before noon and several passengers attempted to board but left when the vehicle didn't move. When other taxis honked, urging the driver to move, he remained unresponsive. Concerned locals investigated and found the driver deceased, prompting a call to the authorities. Police, along with rescue workers, arrived at the scene. There were no signs of medical prescriptions in the vehicle, suggesting no known health conditions. Photos were taken for evidence, and the body was transported to Thammasat University Hospital for further examination. Authorities are coordinating with the driver’s family for funeral arrangements. -- 2025-01-21

Thai Army Day Ceremony Ends in Tragedy A military ceremony at the Surasri Camp on Thai Army Day took a tragic turn when a ceremonial artillery salute resulted in an explosion. The incident injured two soldiers, one of whom had to have a lower arm amputated, while the other remained under observation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349400-thai-army-day-ceremony-ends-in-tragedy/

A military ceremony at the Surasri Camp on Thai Army Day took a tragic turn when a ceremonial artillery salute resulted in an explosion. The incident injured two soldiers, one of whom had to have a lower arm amputated, while the other remained under observation. During the event, the army was firing a 105mm howitzer for a 21-gun salute using training rounds. Unfortunately, as they completed the 17th round, an explosion occurred at the rear of the howitzer. Two soldiers sustained severe injuries and were immediately transported to a local hospital before being transferred to Phra Mongkutklao Hospital for comprehensive care. The soldiers were identified as Sergeant Major Chaisin Rakchat, 34, and Sergeant Major Wichaphon Prangthong, 42. In response, General Pana Klayplotphuk, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army, expressed his condolences and ordered an immediate suspension of the use of any ammunition from the same batch. He also instructed that the circumstances leading to the accident be swiftly investigated and emphasised the importance of providing utmost care for the injured soldiers. Lieutenant Colonel Richa Suksuwan, Deputy Army Spokesperson, confirmed that Sergeant Major Rakchat had undergone surgery due to the injuries affecting his right arm and cornea, while Sergeant Major Prangthong, suffering less severe injuries, was advised to rest and recover at home. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Phumtham Wechayachai, underscored the need for a thorough investigation, noting that accidents can occur even during routine operations. He stressed the importance of following protocols to maintain trust and safety within the military force, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-01-21

Tourism Operators Call for Shorter Visa Stay for Chinese Tourists Picture courtesy: Prachachat Thailand's tourism operators are lobbying for a reduction in the visa-free stay duration for Chinese tourists from 30 days to 15 days. This move aims to combat unlawful work and fraud issues, following incidents involving foreign criminals exploiting the current visa policy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349399-tourism-operators-call-for-shorter-visa-stay-for-chinese-tourists/

Picture courtesy: Prachachat Thailand's tourism operators are lobbying for a reduction in the visa-free stay duration for Chinese tourists from 30 days to 15 days. This move aims to combat unlawful work and fraud issues, following incidents involving foreign criminals exploiting the current visa policy. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), referenced a recent case of Chinese actor Wang Xing, misled by scammers and transported to Myanmar through Thailand's border, which has heightened apprehensions among local operators about foreign scammers abusing the visa-free programme. Operators believe a 15-day limit aligns better with the average stay of Chinese tourists, who typically visit for 7 to 10 days per trip. This adjustment is not expected to disrupt Chinese tourism significantly, given the prevailing travel patterns. While some in the private sector have called for ending the visa-free programme altogether, TAT disagrees, asserting that maintaining visa-free entry is more beneficial, particularly in fostering tourism growth and enhancing flight connectivity from second-tier Chinese cities. The proposal for a shorter stay has yet to be officially submitted to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. However, as a representative from the Foreign Ministry sits on the TAT board, discussions are anticipated in the forthcoming meeting. "Continuing visa-free stays for Chinese tourists offers more advantages, especially in increasing tourist numbers and flights," Ms Thapanee stated. The Tourism Ministry is striving to attract 8.8-9 million Chinese visitors this year, as part of a broader goal of 39-40 million international arrivals. Nonetheless, safety concerns have already led to significant booking cancellations, with 4,572 room nights axed by Chinese tourists alone in January, and Bangkok accounting for 2,001 of these. According to Ratchaporn Poolsawadee, Vice-President of the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), the apprehensions affect not just Chinese visitors but also other Asian tourists, who tend to be more safety-conscious compared to Western travellers. The TCT has recommended developing a "Chinese-friendly" standard for operators in collaboration with the Thailand-China Tourism Association, which has already vetted 200 tourism businesses for safety standards compliance. "Resolving scam and human trafficking issues is imperative for preventing similar incidents in the future," Mr Ratchaporn stressed. He also advocated for reviving international concerts to boost confidence among visitors, noting the recent cancellation of Hong Kong singer Eason Chan's concert and its effect on fan clubs and their travel plans, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-21

Thailand's Visa-Free Policy for Chinese Nationals Faces Scrutiny FILE photo: Chinese tourists arrive at Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok. (Xinhua/Wang Teng) Thailand is reconsidering its visa-free policy for Chinese tourists amid growing concerns over potential misuse by criminal elements. This scrutiny stems from increasing worries that the policy, initially designed to revitalise tourism, might inadvertently position Thailand as a hotspot for illicit activities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349397-thailands-visa-free-policy-for-chinese-nationals-faces-scrutiny/

FILE photo: Chinese tourists arrive at Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok. (Xinhua/Wang Teng) Thailand is reconsidering its visa-free policy for Chinese tourists amid growing concerns over potential misuse by criminal elements. This scrutiny stems from increasing worries that the policy, initially designed to revitalise tourism, might inadvertently position Thailand as a hotspot for illicit activities. Senator Pol Lt Gen Wanchai Ekpornpichit has brought these concerns to the forefront during a Senate meeting presided over by Senate Speaker Mongkol Surasajja. The senator emphasised that organised crime syndicates, particularly those from China, have been exploiting the visa-free entry to infiltrate Thailand for unlawful operations. This exploitation raises substantial security concerns, especially as neighbouring nations like China, Myanmar, and Cambodia intensify their crackdowns on such groups. Despite these concerns, Deputy Defence Minister, Gen Nattaphon Narkphanit, highlighted that the visa-free policy is fundamentally an economic manoeuvre intended to rejuvenate tourism. Nevertheless, he acknowledged the potential risks and assured the Senate of ongoing efforts to bolster border security and regional collaborations to curtail criminal infiltrations. Senator Wanchai proposed an alternative approach: replace the current system with visa-on-arrival requirements. Under this model, tourists would need to present proof of accommodation and travel itineraries, thereby offering authorities an added layer of scrutiny and control. This, he argued, could plug certain immigration loopholes presently open to exploitation. Furthermore, the senator pointed out that some tourists exploit natural border crossings to circumvent formal immigration checks, complicating efforts to monitor and control visitor entry. Heightened surveillance at these informal crossings has thus become imperative. Inside sources reveal an additional complication—some Thai officials might be complicit in these activities, further entrenching the problem. Gen Nattaphon assured the Senate that his ministry is actively cooperating with neighbouring countries to address these concerns robustly. Community safety and public trust remain priorities as Thailand grapples with these challenges. The government is urged to balance economic benefits with stringent security measures, ensuring the nation's hospitality does not become a conduit for criminal enterprise. The ongoing discourse highlights the intricate balance between fostering tourism and safeguarding national security—a complex yet crucial endeavour for Thailand as it redefines its travel policies, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-21

Thai Police Praised for Assisting Foreign Nationals by Krajangwit Johjit The Royal Thai Police (RTP) has been commended by Chinese and Japanese authorities for their efforts in assisting foreign nationals, including high-profile individuals, to safely return to their home countries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349396-thai-police-praised-for-assisting-foreign-nationals/

by Krajangwit Johjit The Royal Thai Police (RTP) has been commended by Chinese and Japanese authorities for their efforts in assisting foreign nationals, including high-profile individuals, to safely return to their home countries. Among those assisted were Chinese actor Wang Xing and model Yang Zheqi, both of whom expressed gratitude for the support and coordination provided by Thai authorities. The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Thailand also issued a statement acknowledging the Thai government’s effective operations, helping to build trust among international visitors and residents. Pol Gen Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, Senior Inspector General and Director of the Anti-Human Trafficking Center outlined ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking and scams targeting individuals lured into illegal work via Thailand as a transit point. The RTP is working closely with international agencies to strengthen cooperation on these issues. Operations have focused on intercepting illegal border crossings and ensuring the safety of both Thai and foreign victims of exploitation. The Japanese Embassy recently thanked the RTP for their timely intervention in locating and repatriating a Japanese youth, further demonstrating Thailand’s capability in addressing such cases. These efforts have bolstered Thailand’s image as a safe destination for international tourists and foreign residents. Pol Gen Thatchai addressed allegations from certain foreign media outlets accusing Thailand of involvement in illegal recruitment operations, clarifying that Thailand is not a source of such activities and that criminal gangs typically use the country as a transit point to transport victims to neighboring countries. The RTP is now preparing legal action against those spreading misinformation that damages the country’s reputation and image. Source: NNT -- 2025-01-21

Thailand Moves Closer to Wealth Tax with New Asset Tracking File photo courtesy: Kasikorn Research Thailand is on the brink of implementing a wealth tax, a move greatly facilitated by recent advancements in tracking high-net-worth individuals' assets, even those held overseas. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349375-thailand-moves-closer-to-wealth-tax-with-new-asset-tracking/

File photo courtesy: Kasikorn Research Thailand is on the brink of implementing a wealth tax, a move greatly facilitated by recent advancements in tracking high-net-worth individuals' assets, even those held overseas. This development was explained by Finance Permanent Secretary Lavaron Sangsnit, who shared insights during an address at the National Defence College. Lavaron revealed that Thailand's new membership in the international tax information exchange network has been a game-changer. By joining this global framework, the Thai Revenue Department now gains access to income data related to Thai citizens residing abroad and can receive information from foreign authorities about earnings generated overseas by Thais. This unprecedented transparency marks a significant stride towards rendering a wealth tax executable. “In the past, implementing such a tax was challenging because the very wealthy could manage their assets globally. The wealthy can invest worldwide, and we have never been able to track their assets held abroad,” Lavaron noted. Previously, taxation was predominantly confined to assets within Thailand's borders, which, though easier to regulate, posed limitations on encompassing global assets. Now, foreign-held assets are clearly on the radar, paving the way to potentially tax wealth that has evaded assessments thus far. This shift comes at a time when international tax trends are veering towards minimising income taxes while emphasising consumption and wealth levies. Lavaron emphasised that mere hikes in VAT are insufficient for comprehensive tax reform. One pivotal goal of taxation, he argued, is to ameliorate income disparities between high and low earners. A substantial, balanced reform of the tax system could even lead to lower income tax rates, a development that would ostensibly make Thailand an attractive destination for both investors and skilled professionals. Additionally, Lavaron highlighted that many countries introduce mitigative strategies wherein increased taxes in one domain are counterbalanced by support for vulnerable groups, cushioning the blow of consumption tax rises. Enhancing consumption and wealth taxes is expected to boost tax collection efficacy, according to Lavaron. He also urged that, given the dynamic shifts in global tax protocols, Thailand must adjust and adopt a balanced tax policy that aligns well with international norms. Lastly, he mentioned that these deliberations align with a proposal from Thailand’s Fiscal Policy Office aimed at overhauling the tax system. This comprehensive reform intends to bolster revenue, fortify debt repayment capabilities, and harmonise with evolving economic structures and consumer patterns. In conclusion, the prospect of a wealth tax in Thailand signals a pivotal change in the country’s fiscal strategy, marking a proactive step towards addressing economic disparities and meeting global taxation standards. With international collaboration and comprehensive domestic tax reforms on the horizon, Thailand is positioning itself for a more equitable economic future, reported Malay Mail. -- 2025-01-21

Thaksin Dodges Garbage Attack During Campaign in Thailand Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In an unexpected twist to a political rally in Maha Sarakham, northeastern Thailand, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra found himself at the centre of an unusual protest when a woman hurled a bag of garbage in his direction. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349379-thaksin-dodges-garbage-attack-during-campaign-in-thailand/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In an unexpected twist to a political rally in Maha Sarakham, northeastern Thailand, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra found himself at the centre of an unusual protest when a woman hurled a bag of garbage in his direction. The incident took place during a Pheu Thai party campaign event, where Thaksin was delivering an enthusiastic speech about the government's plans for local development. The woman, known as Auntie Oun, managed to throw the plastic bag close to Thaksin as he stood on stage in Payakhapum Pisai district. Surrounded by party members and candidates, including those vying for provincial administration positions, Thaksin remained unfazed by the harmless act of defiance. Police quickly intervened, bringing the woman forward, but Thaksin opted not to press charges against her. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Auntie Oun, a food vendor and former Red Shirt activist, expressed her frustration with the situation. She alleged that a canvasser had promised her 200 Thai Baht (approximately £4.50) to attend the rally but received nothing due to what she claimed was an over-recruitment of supporters at the event. Historically, Red Shirt activists, largely from Thailand's Isaan region, have supported Thaksin in the wake of his ousting in a 2006 coup. The movement reached a tragic climax in May 2010 when government troops violently suppressed protests, resulting in nearly 100 deaths and numerous injuries. Discontent simmered further after the 2023 elections when Thaksin allegedly brokered a Pheu Thai-led coalition with parties tied to the 2014 coup junta, such as the Palang Pracharath and Ruam Thai Sang Chart. Many former Red Shirts felt let down by this political manoeuvre, given that his sister, Yingluck Shinawatra, was ousted from power under similar circumstances. This unique protest during the Maha Sarakham rally underscores the complex and often turbulent political landscape in Thailand. Thaksin, known for his robust political strategies and enduring influence, remains a polarising figure, capable of both significant support and profound protest. As the country gears up for upcoming elections, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the deep-seated emotions and divisions that continue to influence Thai politics. While Thaksin's political future - and indeed the future of the Pheu Thai party's governance ambitions - remains uncertain, the incident with Auntie Oun and the garbage bag is a telling reflection of the unpredictable nature of political sentiment in Thailand's enduring democratic journey, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-01-21

Thailand Makes Record Crystal Meth Seizure in Bangkok Warehouse Picture courtesy: Thai TV 5 Thai authorities have made a record-breaking seizure of 1.65 tonnes of crystal methamphetamine, known as "Ice," hidden within cotton bales in a Bangkok warehouse. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349387-thailand-makes-record-crystal-meth-seizure-in-bangkok-warehouse/

Picture courtesy: Thai TV 5 Thai authorities have made a record-breaking seizure of 1.65 tonnes of crystal methamphetamine, known as "Ice," hidden within cotton bales in a Bangkok warehouse. The major bust took place in the Rat Burana district and led to the arrest of five individuals, including a woman responsible for renting the storage space. Parin Mekhanan, the director of suppression at the Office of Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), detailed the operation. The consignment, comprising 33 cotton bales and weighing approximately 1.65 tonnes, originated from an African country. It was initially destined for India but was barred entry, prompting the sender to enlist a Thai contact in Bangkok to secure temporary storage and plan its shipment to another destination. Picture courtesy: Thai TV 5 This Thai woman, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed by police, arranged for the cotton bales to be housed in an empty warehouse. Her involvement led to her arrest last week at the Queen Sirikit Convention Centre in Bangkok's Khlong Toei district. In the wake of the discovery, ONCB Secretary-General Pol Lt-Col Phanurat Lukboon expressed the unprecedented nature of the haul. "It is the first time we have seized such a large quantity of methamphetamine," he disclosed to AFP. The operation was fueled by intelligence provided by the Royal Thai Navy. Back in December, the Navy tipped off the ONCB about an African drug syndicate's strategy, which involved using cotton bales as a disguise for moving drugs from Africa through Thailand to other countries, exploiting it as a transit point. Picture courtesy: Thai TV 5 Lukboon admitted the clever concealment tactics employed by traffickers, noting that the methamphetamine, impregnated into the cotton, was virtually invisible to the naked eye, complicating detection efforts. This significant crackdown underscores Thailand's ongoing battle against drug smuggling. The seizure highlights the innovative and audacious methods international trafficking rings use to evade law enforcement. The confiscated methamphetamine is valued at approximately 49.5 million Thai Baht (£1.1 million) if distributed on the streets, reflecting the scale and financial incentive driving these illegal activities. This operation not only disrupts a major supply chain but also sends a robust signal of Thailand's commitment to fighting the drug epidemic that impacts the region, reported Thai PBS. -- 2025-01-21

Shinawatras Lose Golf Club Ownership, but Lease Option Open File photo for reference courtesy: Wikepedia In a significant development, the Department of Lands in Thailand has been directed to revoke the ownership titles for the Alpine Golf and Sports Club and adjoining residential properties in Pathum Thani province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349343-shinawatras-lose-golf-club-ownership-but-lease-option-open/

Thailand bets big on casino boom under entertainment banner By Bob Scott Police swoop on an illegal gambling den in Nonthaburi. Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In a daring move set to shake up the Land of Smiles, the Government of Thailand is pushing forward with a controversial plan to legalise casinos, sneakily packaged as entertainment complexes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349345-thailand-bets-big-on-casino-boom-under-entertainment-banner/

Fake hug scam strikes again: Indian man loses gold necklace to 3 ladyboys By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ TMN Cable TV Pattaya Three Thai ladyboys offered an Indian man a seemingly friendly hug before stealing his gold necklace, worth about 132,000 baht, from him on Pattaya Beach in the early hours of today. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349357-fake-hug-scam-strikes-again-indian-man-loses-gold-necklace-to-3-ladyboys/

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 21 January 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1349350-thailand-live-tuesday-21-january-2025/

Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail Banged up: Thai prison nightmare exposed by British tourist by Bob Scott A British tourist revealed the grim conditions banged up abroad in a Thai prison and issued a chilling warning to fellow travellers about the reality of being detained abroad. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349356-banged-up-thai-prison-nightmare-exposed-by-british-tourist/

Banged up: Thai prison nightmare exposed by British tourist by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail A British tourist revealed the grim conditions banged up abroad in a Thai prison and issued a chilling warning to fellow travellers about the reality of being detained abroad. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349356-banged-up-thai-prison-nightmare-exposed-by-british-tourist/

Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail by Bob Scott A British tourist revealed the grim conditions banged up abroad in a Thai prison and issued a chilling warning to fellow travellers about the reality of being detained abroad. The 29 year old former soldier, who wished to remain anonymous, endured a 15-day ordeal in two police cells and a Bangkok deportation centre after overstaying his visa, a blunder he deeply regrets. “The only way I can describe it is hell.” Held with 130 other people in a stifling room devoid of ventilation, he added, “We could only go out for an hour a week.” The grim picture didn’t end there. Guards would distribute food in trays washed on the filthy bathroom floor using cold water. “Everywhere I stayed was infested with fire ants and cockroaches. The rubbish just piled up in a corner.” Pictures courtesy of The Daily Mail His Thai adventure began with hope and ambition in April of the previous year, as he planned to settle and start a business. However, his dreams crumbled in November when a spat with an ex landed him in hot water in Pattaya. Police, alerted to his visa status, arrested him and dragged him to court, claiming he had overstayed by a few days. “The police were very violent. Two officers ambushed me in a public toilet and beat me. They threw me onto the flatbed of a truck and cuffed me to the side.” Dazed and disoriented, the British man suspected he suffered a concussion and was left in the dark about his fate until Russian cellmates enlightened him about the process. “They lent me money to pay my court fine, otherwise, it would have been much worse.” Packed into a cramped police cell measuring six-by-four feet alongside eight other inmates, he resorted to bribery to make life fractionally more bearable. The prisoners jostled for space and struggled to rest, with no room to lie down properly. “There was a pregnant girl from Laos who was really struggling, always crying with her head on the floor. It was horrible, especially as another cell, the same size, was packed with 13 people.” After eight gruelling days in Pattaya, he was moved to Bangkok’s deportation centre, where behaviour worsened. Sharing four grim toilets with 130 detainees, they relied on a bucket of cold water for cleaning and bathing. Weekends granted an hour of fresh air in a roofless, barred area, barely a respite. “A guy sold pot noodles in one corner. That’s all I’d eat.” His mother fought tooth and nail with the British embassy to secure his release, eventually getting him flown home. It cost 500 baht (£11.94) per night for his stay at the deportation centre, plus airfare. Remarkably, the British tourist managed to smuggle a phone inside, hidden in baby wipes, to capture the conditions, the Daily Mail reported. “Once you’re locked in, you have zero contact and no way to access money. Someone outside must fight for you. I’m fortunate I sneaked my phone inside and my mum contacted the embassy, otherwise, I’d still be stuck there.” His experience served as a stark warning to travellers. “Don’t risk overstaying your visa thinking it’s just a small fine. It’s not worth becoming a victim of this.” Bitter from his ordeal, he declared he would never return to Thailand. He criticised the system as a “cash-making scheme” for the government, claiming that tourism, the backbone of Thailand’s economy, exploits foreigners through such detentions. The former soldier’s ordeal serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of visa lapses and the stark realities lurking behind Thailand’s tourist veneer, urging cautious adherence to immigration laws to avoid a similar nightmare. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-20