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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. Mr. Ben was indicted in the UK on multiple charges, including conspiracy to supply cocaine, heroin, and ketamine, as well as possessing property derived from criminal activities. After his conviction, he escaped to Thailand in 2022. Since then, he had been living under the radar, adopting a new identity as a boxer named "Billy" and renting a luxury pool villa and a condominium in Phuket. Acting on an extradition request from the UK’s National Crime Agency (NCA), Thai authorities initiated a thorough investigation. Their efforts paid off when they located Mr. Ben competing in local boxing matches at a Phuket stadium. He had concealed his past well, blending into the local community and making it challenging for officials to trace him. Pol. Maj. Gen. Montree Thesakan, Commander of the Crime Suppression Division, along with Pol. Col. Phattharawut Onchuai and Pol. Lt. Col. Phongsak Meemusik, led the operation that resulted in Mr. Ben’s capture. Despite his arrest, Mr. Ben denied all charges laid against him during the initial interrogation. No immediate statements were made available to the press, nor was it confirmed if he had legal representation in Thailand. Picture courtesy: MGR Online The arrest signifies a robust partnership between British and Thai law enforcement, highlighting their dedication to apprehending international fugitives, reported MGR Online. Mr. Ben has been handed over to the Office of the Attorney General for the legal process and is expected to be extradited back to the UK shortly. This case serves as a stern warning to those who believe they can evade justice by hiding abroad. The remarkable coordination exhibited by both countries underscores the efficacy of international cooperation in tackling serious crime. -- 2024-09-03 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 3 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1337123-thailand-live-tuesday-3-september-2024/

Four routes under consideration for Koh Chang Bridge Image courtesy of EXAT The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) has initiated a series of public hearings regarding the proposed bridge connecting the mainland to Koh Chang Island, a popular destination in Trat province. The first hearing, held today, September 2, in Mueang district, garnered widespread support from locals and business owners. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337115-four-routes-under-consideration-for-koh-chang-bridge/

Thailand is on track to witness a dramatic uptick in foreign arrivals, targeting an impressive 12.2 million visitors in the final four months of 2024. This expected influx aims to push the annual total to nearly 36 million tourists, generating an anticipated 1.8 trillion baht in revenue, according to the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Thailand Gears Up for Tourist Boom: 12.2 Million Expected by Year-End Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337094-thailand-gears-up-for-tourist-boom-122-million-expected-by-year-end/

Taxi driver arrested for attempted rape of son’s teenage girlfriend by Petch Petpailin Photo via Amarin TV A Thai taxi driver, arrested for attempting to rape his son’s 16 year old girlfriend, claimed that he committed the crime because he felt neglected by his son since he started dating the girl. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337060-taxi-driver-arrested-for-attempted-rape-of-son’s-teenage-girlfriend/

A Thai taxi driver, arrested for attempting to rape his son’s 16 year old girlfriend, claimed that he committed the crime because he felt neglected by his son since he started dating the girl. Mueang Phra Samut Chedi Police Station officers were alerted to a physical altercation in Soi Ruam Pattana in the central province of Samut Prakarn at 7pm on Friday, August 30, and rushed to investigate. Officers then discovered that the altercation stemmed from the attempted rape of a 16 year old victim called Bam. Bam told police that she was a student at a high school in the Phra Padaeng neighbourhood of Samut Prakan and had a boyfriend who had left school and was working in Soi Pracha Uthit 90. They had been in a relationship for over a year, and she had met his father, 46 year old Suthat, who worked as a taxi driver, many times before. Bam recounted that on the day of the incident, Suthat visited her at her home on Soi Suksawat 80 and invited her to get into his taxi, claiming he had something important to discuss. Once in the car, Suthat alleged that he had secretly filmed sexual activities between Bam and his son, using a hidden camera he had placed in his son’s bedroom. Suthat then took Bam to his rented room on Soi Suksawat 100, where the alleged incident occurred. He demanded that Bam resolve the sex tape issue by having sex with him and if she refused he threatened to release the explicit footage online. Bam responded by telling him to go ahead if he wished, prompting Suthat to change his approach. According to Bam, Suthat told her that he romantically loved her and suddenly hugged and kissed her. Suthat then attempted to have sex with Bam but she managed to escape from the room. Bam sought help from men who were gathered and drinking beer outside a nearby rented room. Son’s negligence blamed The men helped Bam and engaged in a physical altercation with Suthat. Suthat managed to escape from the scene but was later arrested yesterday, September 1. Suthat stated that he had gone to Bam’s home to borrow a phone charger while drunk. He had consulted her about his son’s 26 year old ex-girlfriend and a plan to sue her for sexually assaulting a minor. He asked Bam to get into his taxi to talk about it and they drove to the rented room. Suthat said he held Bam’s hand while talking and began to have sexual feelings for her. He asked whether Bam would have sex with him but she refused. He was about to take Bam home when she ran away to seek help from neighbours. Suthat claimed that he had never actually possessed any explicit videos, despite what he had told Bam. He admitted that he fabricated the story because he felt neglected. He was seeking attention from his son, who had stopped interacting with him since he began dating his girlfriend. Although Suthat’s statements seemed dubious, they did include a confession that he had attempted to rape Bam. Consequently, officers charged him with sexually assaulting an adult by threatening or using violence, under Section 278 of the Criminal Law. The penalty for this offence is up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to 200,000 baht, or both. Additionally, Suthat faced charges under Section 295 of the Criminal Law for assaulting another person, causing both physical and mental harm. The penalty for this charge is up to two years in prison, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both. In a bid to make amends, Suthat expressed a desire to apologise to his son. A video shared by ThaiRath depicted him bowing at his son’s feet and receiving a hug from him before being taken to prison. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Amarin TV Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Social media uproar over 1,500 baht police fee for minor accident by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod A car owner in Thailand faced an unexpected fee after reporting a minor accident at a police station, sparking a social media debate on the legitimacy of the charge. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337052-social-media-uproar-over-1500-baht-police-fee-for-minor-accident/

A car owner in Thailand faced an unexpected fee after reporting a minor accident at a police station, sparking a social media debate on the legitimacy of the charge. Yesterday, September 1, a user on X (formerly known as Twitter) shared a complaint from a follower regarding an incident where their car was rear-ended. The damage was minor, so they drove to the police station to file a report. However, upon trying to leave, they were unexpectedly asked to pay 1,500 baht for a vehicle inspection. The receipt provided was a cash bill similar to those used in shops or restaurants, not an official document from the Royal Thai Police. The page shared a photo of the receipt and questioned its legitimacy, asking if it was appropriate for the police to charge this fee. The post quickly gained traction, prompting numerous comments from netizens who were equally puzzled by the situation. Many questioned whether police officers have the authority to conduct vehicle inspections and whether the fee was justified. Another user commented on the post, explaining that normally, vehicle inspections are conducted when a vehicle is to be released from police custody or returned to its owner while a case is still unresolved. They noted that such inspections are typically only necessary when the damage is severe and requires towing. In cases of minor damage, taking photos should suffice as evidence for the case file. The controversy has led to widespread discussion about the practices and accountability of the police in such situations. Many netizens expressed disbelief, questioning the propriety of using a commercial receipt for police services. The incident raised concerns about transparency and the proper conduct of police officers, especially in handling minor accidents. The police have yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident or clarify the legitimacy of the fee and the receipt provided. As the debate continues online, many are calling for a thorough investigation and clearer guidelines to prevent similar occurrences in the future. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Abhisit predicts Paetongtarn’s govt term to last, despite challenges by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Bangkok Post Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s government is expected to complete the rest of its three-year term, as no coalition parties seem prepared for an early General Election, according to former Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, who also noted that these parties are still striving to demonstrate to their voters that they merit re-election. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337050-abhisit-predicts-paetongtarn’s-govt-term-to-last-despite-challenges/

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s government is expected to complete the rest of its three-year term, as no coalition parties seem prepared for an early General Election, according to former Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva, who also noted that these parties are still striving to demonstrate to their voters that they merit re-election. However, he pointed out that the coalition’s weak point is the diminishing public confidence in the Pheu Thai Party-led government, which could worsen with any new negative developments, including misconduct, potentially leading to a full-blown crisis. When questioned about the possibility of Paetongtarn being ousted in a military coup, similar to her father Thaksin and aunt Yingluck, Abhisit stated that her being the third Shinawatra to lead the government might not justify a coup but her leadership approach could. “None of us wants to see that problem [of a government being ousted in a coup] again… So, if this government could resolve the country’s problems in a morally right way, all sides should be happy.” Despite his long-standing rivalry with the Pheu Thai Party, Abhisit admitted that the party had certain successes that should have been incorporated into its core policies for further development. “It’s a shame that [Pheu Thai members] failed to build on their previous achievements to drive their party forward… Worse still, they still couldn’t even shake off the [Shinawatra] influence.” Repeating past mistakes Although Thaksin’s influence on the Pheu Thai-led government might boost confidence among his supporters, Abhisit recognises that there is also the risk of repeating past mistakes which previously led to his downfall. “So, if Thaksin hasn’t learnt from his past mistakes at all, there is the risk that history will repeat itself.” Thawisan Lonanurak, an independent academic and former secretary-general of the Northeast Chamber of Commerce, highlighted key challenges facing the country’s 31st prime minister. The scrutiny of the 36 new Cabinet ministers is anticipated to take longer than Pheu Thai and Paetongtarn expect. If even one minister is later deemed ineligible, it could cast uncertainty over the new PM’s fate. Former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin was removed from office by a Constitutional Court ruling, which found him guilty of a serious ethics violation after appointing ex-convict Pichit Chuenban as a PM’s Office minister. Thawisan emphasised that the Council of State and the Secretariat of the Cabinet must exercise extra caution this time. Cabinet ministers The overall quality of the prospective Cabinet ministers was also called into question. Thawisan claimed that appointments were based on party quotas rather than the suitability of the candidates. “An academic is made agriculture and cooperatives minister, while a policeman is picked to oversee education administration, which is just wrong and makes people feel hopeless.” Thawisan also criticised the decision to allow a faction within a political party to join the new coalition against the party’s resolution, warning that it could weaken the party as an institution. He predicted that in the future, more factions would follow suit, negotiating with MPs from other parties to secure Cabinet seats, disregarding their party’s resolutions. Stithorn Thananithichot, director of the Office of Innovation for Democracy at King Prajadhipok’s Institute, stated that the new government’s performance would be crucial in determining whether the coalition can complete its term and Pheu Thai’s chances in the next national election. “If the country’s economy isn’t improving at all by the end of this year, the new government could be short-lived.” General Prawit Wongsuwon, leader of the Palang Pracharath Party, which was excluded from the new government, is not expected to pose an immediate threat. However, Stithorn warned that if the Paetongtarn administration fails to improve its performance, the PM might face a series of challenges that could jeopardise her career, with Prawit potentially turning the tables on her, reported Bangkok Post. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand braces for severe monsoon rains and potential flash floods by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a weather warning for today, September 2, predicting severe monsoon rains across 51 provinces, with 80% of Bangkok set to experience heavy rainfall. Citizens are advised to brace for potential flash floods. Full stiry: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337048-thailand-braces-for-severe-monsoon-rains-and-potential-flash-floods/

The Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) issued a weather warning for today, September 2, predicting severe monsoon rains across 51 provinces, with 80% of Bangkok set to experience heavy rainfall. Citizens are advised to brace for potential flash floods. The TMD forecasts that a monsoon trough will traverse the northern and northeastern regions of Thailand, extending to a low-pressure area in the central South China Sea. Coupled with a moderate southwestern monsoon over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand, this weather pattern will lead to increased rainfall and isolated heavy showers. In the Andaman Sea, moderate winds are expected in the upper part, with waves reaching about 2 metres. The lower Andaman Sea and the upper Gulf of Thailand will see waves between 1 to 2 metres. Areas experiencing thunderstorms may encounter waves exceeding 2 metres. Mariners in these regions are advised to navigate cautiously and avoid sailing in stormy conditions. From tomorrow to the next five days, the monsoon trough is predicted to shift over the lower northern, central, and northeastern regions of Thailand, moving towards the central South China Sea. The southwestern monsoon over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand is also expected to intensify. This will result in increased rainfall across Thailand, with some areas in the eastern and southern regions experiencing very heavy rain. The Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand will see stronger winds and higher waves, with the Andaman Sea expecting waves between two to three metres and areas with thunderstorms seeing waves exceeding 3 metres. The upper Gulf of Thailand will have waves around 2 metres, with thunderstorm regions experiencing waves over two metres. Mariners are advised to exercise caution and avoid sailing in stormy conditions, and small boats in the Andaman Sea should remain ashore from the fourth to the seventh of September. Tropical storm The tropical storm “Yagi” near the Philippines is anticipated to move towards the southern part of Taiwan and China, entering the upper South China Sea between the third and fourth of September. In the northern region, 70% of the area will experience thunderstorms, with heavy rain in some places, including Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, Tak, and Phetchabun. Temperatures will range from 24 to 25 degrees Celsius (°C) at the lowest and 31 to 35°C at the highest, with southwestern winds at 10 to 15 kilometres per hour (km/h). The northeastern region will see 70% of the area affected by thunderstorms, with some heavy rain in Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, Ubon Ratchathani, Chaiyaphum, and Nakhon Ratchasima. Temperatures will range from 23 to 25 °C at the lowest and 32 to 34 °C at the highest, with southwestern winds at 10 to 20 km/h. The central region will have 70% of the area experiencing thunderstorms and some heavy rain, particularly in Lopburi, Saraburi, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Songkhram, and Samut Sakhon. Temperatures will range from 24 to 25°C at the lowest and 33 to 35°C at the highest, with southwestern winds at 10 to 20 km/h. In the eastern region, 80% of the area will see thunderstorms, with very heavy rain in Nakhon Nayok, Chachoengsao, Prachinburi, Sa Kaeo, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Temperatures will range from 24 to 25°C at the lowest and 29 to 33°C at the highest, with southwestern winds at 15 to 35 km/h. The sea will have waves between 1 to 2 metres, with areas experiencing thunderstorms seeing waves over 2 metres. The southern region (eastern coast) will have 60% of the area with thunderstorms and some heavy rain, particularly in Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures will range from 23 to 26°C at the lowest and 33 to 35°C at the highest. Bangkok and its surrounding areas are expected to experience 80% thunderstorms, with some areas seeing very heavy rain. Temperatures will range from 24 to 25°C at the lowest and 33 to 35°C at the highest, with southwestern winds at 10 to 20 km/h. by Ryan Turner Image courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand to launch digital money handout in two weeks by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post The coalition government is set to initiate its policy implementation, including the digital money handout scheme, in two weeks, according to caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. Full. story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337046-thailand-to-launch-digital-money-handout-in-two-weeks/

The coalition government is set to initiate its policy implementation, including the digital money handout scheme, in two weeks, according to caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. However, Phumtham did not specify when the revised Cabinet line-up will be submitted for royal endorsement. He indicated that nominations from all coalition parties had been reviewed by state organisations and forwarded to the Secretariat of the Cabinet (SoC) and the Council of State (CoS), the government’s legal arm, for final review. Phumtham explained that the timing of the process now depends on the SoC and CoS. He reiterated that all necessary procedures for the government to take office should be completed within 15 days, with a three-day buffer before and after. “What most people are looking forward to is the government starting to solve problems while maintaining unity among coalition partners.” As the caretaker deputy prime minister, Phumtham expressed his eagerness for the new government to be endorsed and operational as soon as possible. Addressing rumours about the potential exclusion of the digital wallet handout scheme from the government’s policy statement in parliament, Phumtham confirmed that the scheme, an economic stimulus initiative, would proceed. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra mentioned on August 30 that the new cabinet lineup is almost ready, pending nominee qualifications verification. She noted that this process should take about a week to complete. “Will the list be submitted for royal endorsement next week? Well, as soon as the parties verifying it say so and send it back to us, we will try our best to get that done as fast as possible.” She also responded to inquiries about why her Pheu Thai Party decided not to include the Palang Pracharath Party in the new Cabinet, stating there were several reasons that she preferred not to elaborate on, reported Bangkok Post. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe Edited just now by webfact

RELATED NEWS "Big Boobs Barbershop" Draws Crowds with Expert Haircuts in Khon Kaen Picture courtesy: Daily News In Khon Kaen's Mueang District, a barbershop named "Big Boobs Barbershop" is generating buzz and attracting a steady stream of customers. Despite its provocative name, the shop's popularity is attributed to its owner's extensive experience and skill in men's hairstyling. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337040-big-boobs-barbershop-draws-crowds-with-expert-haircuts-in-khon-kaen/

Thai Department Warns Tourists Against Buying Fake Driving Licences File photo courtesy: Motorist In a recent advisory, Thailand’s Land Transport Department has cautioned foreign tourists against purchasing driving licences from illegal websites. This warning comes in the wake of a concerning Facebook post that created a stir by falsely claiming a Chinese woman obtained a Thai driving licence without knowing how to drive, allegedly with the help of an agent. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337045-thai-department-warns-tourists-against-buying-fake-driving-licences/

In a recent advisory, Thailand’s Land Transport Department has cautioned foreign tourists against purchasing driving licences from illegal websites. This warning comes in the wake of a concerning Facebook post that created a stir by falsely claiming a Chinese woman obtained a Thai driving licence without knowing how to drive, allegedly with the help of an agent. The controversial Facebook post showcased a photo of the woman’s driving licence, claiming, “She lives in Chiang Mai and got a Thai driving licence even though she never learnt how to drive. She just paid an agent to help her get the Thai permit.” This prompted the department to conduct an investigation. According to the Land Transport Department, the Chinese tourist in question did, in fact, apply for her licence at the Chiang Mai Provincial Land Transport Office following legal procedures and regulations. Contrary to the social media allegations, she underwent the necessary physical fitness tests and completed the required training courses. The department clarified that the photo of the driving licence was posted without the woman's consent. She has filed a police complaint against the owner of the Facebook page, asserting that she legally obtained her licence and did not use an agent. Officials strongly advise caution to tourists, warning that online offers to facilitate quick and easy licences are fraudulent. Such illegal websites often misuse the Land Transport Department’s logo to seem legitimate. They lure unsuspecting individuals by falsely advertising that they can bypass the official process, albeit at a much higher fee. For genuine Thai driving licences, applicants must visit the department in person, complete a physical fitness test, undergo theoretical training, and pass a driving course and examination. The official fee is 105 baht for a motorcycle licence and 205 baht for a car licence. Tourists are urged to avoid falling into these traps and to always follow the established legal procedures. File photo courtesy: Motorist -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Cyber Police Apprehend Loan Shark in Nakhon Si Thammarat Picture courtesy: Daily News Cyber police have arrested a notorious loan shark in Nakhon Si Thammarat known for charging steep interest rates of up to 20% per month and accepting vehicles and firearms as collateral. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337043-cyber-police-apprehend-loan-shark-in-nakhon-si-thammarat/

Picture courtesy: Daily News Cyber police have arrested a notorious loan shark in Nakhon Si Thammarat known for charging steep interest rates of up to 20% per month and accepting vehicles and firearms as collateral. The head of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau, Worawat Watnakornbancha, instructed Division 5 commander Phumipat Phattharasriwongchai and his team to execute a search warrant issued by the Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Court. On August 29, officers raided a residence in Khanom subdistrict and arrested Somporn (alias Jun), a 60-year-old man. During the search, police confiscated a mobile phone, a CZ handgun, 19 rounds of ammunition, a sidecar motorcycle, bank account books, and loan contracts. These items were linked to Somporn’s illegal loan activities, which he operated through a Line account named Somporn. Somporn admitted to running an unlicensed loan business, charging interest rates as high as 20% per month. A typical loan of 10,000 baht (approximately £220) required daily repayments of 500 baht (around £11), combining both interest and principal, until the debt was cleared. This rate far exceeds the legal limit of 15% per year. Somporn primarily targeted local villagers, advertising his services and communicating with borrowers via the Line app. Borrowers could contact him by adding his phone number on Line. Police monitored his Line account to collect evidence before executing the arrest. Following his arrest, Somporn admitted to operating in the Khanom district for four years alongside his farming job. He confessed to keeping loan documents at his residence, charging illegal interest rates, and deleting some chat records due to heightened police scrutiny. Somporn faces multiple charges, including violating the 2017 Interest Rate Control Act by exceeding the legal interest rate limit, and operating a personal loan business without a licence in breach of the 1972 Revolutionary Council Announcement. Additionally, he was charged with illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition under the 1947 Firearms and Ammunition Act. The police have taken Somporn to Kanom Police Station for further legal action. His arrest is part of a broader crackdown on illegal lending practices, aiming to protect vulnerable borrowers from predatory financial activities. -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Monday 2 September 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337042-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-monday-2-september-2024/

An 18-year-old man was mauled to death by two American Bully dogs at his home in Lopburi. His mother and older brother found his body covered in bite marks upon returning home. CCTV footage showed him attempting to escape to a bedroom but failing to close the door in time. The dogs' owner pleaded for understanding after the tragedy. American Bully dogs are banned in several countries, including the UK, Ireland, Turkey, and the UAE. Around 150 residents near Phrae, northern Thailand, protested against a proposed dam, warning it would impact thousands of households and destroy over 10,000 rai of prime forest. They criticized politicians for reviving the plan after recent floods and urged the government to explore new methods for water management that respect nature and avoid further environmental damage. The Department of Transport has confirmed that a Chinese tourist seen in an online post advertising "fast-track" services to obtain a drivers licence had legally obtained her’s in Chiang Mai. A Thai social media user, falsely implied she bypassed the required driving tests. The department clarified that her image was used without consent and emphasized that all applicants must complete the necessary verification, physical exam, and driving test. A research team from Chulalongkorn University’s Faculty of Science won the United Nations Public Service Award for Innovation in Public Institutions. The award, presented in Seoul, recognized their work on "Academic Insight into Action for a Pandemic Response." The team developed a system using wastewater analysis for early disease detection, inspired by the Covid-19 pandemic. Around the region In Japan Tropical cyclone Shanshan, downgraded from a typhoon, left seven people dead and widespread damage as it churned off the Pacific coast. The met office warned of landslides, floods and rising water levels in rivers in western and eastern Japan 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 Hua 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 2024-09-02 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Saudi Man Found Dead at Karon Beach, Phuket Picture: Daily News A 30-year-old Saudi man drowned while swimming at Karon Beach in Phuket, and his body was later found washed ashore. Authorities are working with the Saudi Arabian Embassy to locate his relatives for body identification and to complete legal procedures. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337041-saudi-man-found-dead-at-karon-beach-phuket/

A 30-year-old Saudi man drowned while swimming at Karon Beach in Phuket, and his body was later found washed ashore. Authorities are working with the Saudi Arabian Embassy to locate his relatives for body identification and to complete legal procedures. On September 1, Deputy Inspector (Investigation) R.T.O. ML. Sanya Suksawat of Karon Police Station received a report about a body found on Karon Beach, Karon Subdistrict, Mueang District, Phuket. He promptly arrived at the scene with Pol. Col. Khun Det Na Nong Khai, Superintendent of Karon Police Station, along with the investigation team, rescue workers from Karon Municipality, and officers from the Phuket Ruam Jai Rescue Foundation. They identified the deceased as Mr. Alharbi Bader Naqi M., a 30-year-old Saudi Arabian national. The body, found in light green shorts, was believed to have been swept away by waves while swimming near the Naga statue. Initial medical examinations revealed no signs of assault. The body was taken to Chira Phuket Hospital for identification and an autopsy to determine the cause of death. Officials are coordinating with the Saudi Arabian Embassy to contact the man's relatives and proceed with necessary legal procedures. It has been reported that he was scheduled to return on September 2, 2024, but unfortunately passed away before his departure. Picture: Daily News -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

"Big Boobs Barbershop" Draws Crowds with Expert Haircuts in Khon Kaen Picture courtesy: Daily News In Khon Kaen's Mueang District, a barbershop named "Big Boobs Barbershop" is generating buzz and attracting a steady stream of customers. Despite its provocative name, the shop's popularity is attributed to its owner's extensive experience and skill in men's hairstyling. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337040-big-boobs-barbershop-draws-crowds-with-expert-haircuts-in-khon-kaen/

Picture courtesy: Daily News In Khon Kaen's Mueang District, a barbershop named "Big Boobs Barbershop" is generating buzz and attracting a steady stream of customers. Despite its provocative name, the shop's popularity is attributed to its owner's extensive experience and skill in men's hairstyling. Ms. Rattana Wichasri, 31, owns the barbershop located in Ban Kut Kwang, Mueang Kao Subdistrict. She began her hairdressing career after receiving training from the Department of Skill Development, Region 6, and furthered her skills at Star Barber. Picture courtesy: Daily News With over three years of experience in men’s haircuts, she initially helped a friend open the barbershop. When her friend moved abroad, Ms. Wichasri took over and has since built a loyal customer base, reported Daily News. Ms. Wichasri explained that the shop's name, while attention-grabbing, is not the main draw. Her expertise in cutting hair in various styles keeps customers returning. "The shop's name might attract people initially, but it's my skill and the quality of service that make them come back," she said. Services at the barbershop are reasonably priced: men’s haircuts range from 100-150 baht, shampoo and blow-dry cost 100-150 baht, women’s haircuts are priced at 200-250 baht, fashion hair coloring starts at 500 baht, and gray hair dyeing costs between 160-200 baht. The shop serves no fewer than 20 customers daily. Despite her usual preference for dressing stylishly, Ms. Wichasri emphasized that the real reason for the shop’s success lies in the quality of her work, which has earned her a strong reputation among both new and returning clients. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe