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Russian and Ukrainian Nationals Arrested for Illegal Car Rentals On September 1, 2024, the Tourism Police apprehended two foreign nationals for illegally renting out vehicles and advertising their services in Russian Telegram groups. They were charged with working in Thailand without a work permit. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337038-russian-and-ukrainian-nationals-arrested-for-illegal-car-rentals/

On September 1, 2024, the Tourism Police apprehended two foreign nationals for illegally renting out vehicles and advertising their services in Russian Telegram groups. They were charged with working in Thailand without a work permit. The operation was led by Police Lieutenant General Sakthira Phueak-um, Commissioner of the Tourism Police, and involved Police Lieutenant Colonel Winitch Bunchet, Inspector of the Tourism Police Division 5, along with Mr. Nopadol Khammali, District Chief of Koh Phangan, and local officials. The team conducted a crackdown on crime, including illegal foreign labor, in Koh Phangan. The two arrested individuals are: Mr. Andrei Petrov, a 60-year-old Russian, found with a gray Mazda CX-3 (license plate Kh 1822 Surat Thani). He was charged with “working in Thailand without a work permit.” Mr. Dmytro Piaterikov, an 18-year-old Ukrainian, found with a red Yamaha Xmax motorcycle (license plate 1K 4676 Lopburi). He was also charged with “working in Thailand without a work permit.” Both suspects were taken to the Koh Phangan Police Station for legal proceedings. Mr. Petrov admitted to running a car rental business, advertising through the Telegram app, and charging a 15,000 baht deposit per customer. He acknowledged that this activity is illegal. Mr. Piaterikov had come to Thailand to study but began renting out his motorcycle via Telegram to earn extra income. He advertised various rental rates: 10,000 baht for one month, 699 baht per day for 1-3 days, 599 baht per day for 3-9 days, 499 baht per day for 10-20 days, and 399 baht per day for 20-29 days. He admitted to renting out the motorcycle for two months. Police Lieutenant General Sakthira Phueak-um emphasized the need for tourism police stations in key tourist areas and nearby regions to intensify efforts against foreign nationals engaging in illegal activities and to enforce strict legal action in all cases. -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Anutin Calls for Swift Flood Response and Recovery Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On September 1, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul gave an interview after assessing the flood situation in the northern region, specifically in the provinces of Sukhothai, Chai Nat, and Nakhon Sawan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337037-anutin-calls-for-swift-flood-response-and-recovery/

On September 1, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul gave an interview after assessing the flood situation in the northern region, specifically in the provinces of Sukhothai, Chai Nat, and Nakhon Sawan. He stated that the Ministry of Interior has been closely monitoring the situation and receiving continuous updates. During yesterday's visit, Mr. Anutin emphasized the importance of coordinating the work plan in these areas to ensure mutual understanding. At the meeting, he proposed simplifying the process of requesting support from the central government for disaster prevention and mitigation to enhance the efficiency of their efforts. "In flood situations, we rely heavily on local governments and the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) because they are on the ground. When requesting help from the central government, we must gather all necessary information and submit it promptly. The quicker we do this, the faster the assistance will arrive, reducing people's suffering and increasing their happiness," he said. Mr. Anutin explained that the current flooding has been caused by water from the north and heavy rainfall. In many areas, water levels are rising, and residents are moving their belongings to higher ground, while some have built barriers to prevent flooding. "We have the resources and tools, so we must assist immediately when there is a request. Even when we've done everything possible to prevent flooding, the water may still encroach. Both local governments and DDPM officials have been directed to reach out to affected residents, deliver food and water, and reassure them that the government is committed to their well-being. If anyone is ill, we must coordinate to ensure they receive medical care." “Late last night, at midnight, I saw defense volunteers and many officers from the Interior Ministry and other agencies helping the people. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone. Sometimes, our work never stops because people are waiting for our help. This is difficult work, but it’s the value of fulfilling our duty,” Mr. Anutin added. Mr. Anutin also noted that the floods have already passed through many provinces, causing significant damage. He urged everyone to assist the people in recovering and restoring the affected areas to normal. He praised the dedication of all involved, mentioning that many have gone above and beyond, even using their own resources. For example, some village headmen and local leaders used agricultural drones to deliver relief supplies, risking damage to ensure food and water reached the villagers, which helped them survive. "That is truly commendable. Our mission at the Interior Ministry is clear: to alleviate suffering and promote happiness. Your efforts bring smiles, create happiness for the people, and build their trust in you," he concluded. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Bangkok Cabbie Returns Almost 100,000 Baht to Israeli Tourist Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On September 1, 2024, at the Police Radio FM91 station, Dr. Jaitanai Sriwangpol, Deputy Managing Director of Vilai Center & Sons Co., Ltd., and Mr. Phichit Chaiyanit, Head of the News Department at FM91, witnessed the return of foreign currency totaling 75,100 baht to its Israeli owner, who had accidentally left the money in a taxi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337036-bangkok-cabbie-returns-almost-100000-baht-to-israeli-tourist/

On September 1, 2024, at the Police Radio FM91 station, Dr. Jaitanai Sriwangpol, Deputy Managing Director of Vilai Center & Sons Co., Ltd., and Mr. Phichit Chaiyanit, Head of the News Department at FM91, witnessed the return of foreign currency totaling 75,100 baht to its Israeli owner, who had accidentally left the money in a taxi. The Good Samaritan taxi driver, Mr. Wirat Soiudom, 54, from Roi Et Province, drives a pink and green taxi with the registration number ThS-2769 in Bangkok. He found a black Prada handbag containing various foreign currencies and documents, including identification in the name of Mr. Nathanel Avinoam, an Israeli national. Mr. Wirat picked up Mr. Avinoam on August 31, 2024, at 8:00 p.m. on Trok Road and dropped him off in Soi Sukhumvit 22. Later, at 2:00 a.m. on the night of August 31, 2024, Mr. Wirat brought the bag to the FM91 station after checking the documents and money inside, which included US dollars, Hong Kong dollars, Israeli shekels, UAE dirhams, and Thai baht, totaling 75,100 baht. Upon being notified, FM91 quickly searched for the bag's owner and eventually found him. The owner, an Israeli tourist staying at a hotel in the Charoen Krung area, has been traveling to Thailand for business and leisure for over 20 years. Mr. Wirat, the Good Samaritan taxi driver, said he has been following FM91 for over 20-30 years and has returned lost money to its owners on several occasions. Just like this time, he tried to drive around and find the owner but could not locate him, so he thought of FM91 and decided to leave the bag there to help find the owner. "I’m glad to be a good citizen, and I want to encourage all taxi and tuk-tuk drivers to be honest in their profession," he said. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Mr. Nathanel Avinoam, the owner of the bag, expressed his joy and gratitude upon meeting the honest taxi driver. He said, "I have been traveling to and from Thailand for over 20 years. I love Thailand for its food, healthcare, and the kindness of its people. I want to spend my retirement here. I am pleased to have met such a good person and to have my belongings returned." In appreciation of the taxi driver's honesty, Mr. Avinoam gave him a reward of 200 US dollars, equivalent to 6,800 baht. TOP Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Gunfire in Yala Market After Minor Vehicle Collision Picture courtesy: Daily News A minor vehicle collision in Yala’s Malayu Bangkok market escalated into violence when two men, upset by the incident, ambushed a contractor and fired three shots at his vehicle before fleeing the scene. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337033-gunfire-in-yala-market-after-minor-vehicle-collision/

A minor vehicle collision in Yala’s Malayu Bangkok market escalated into violence when two men, upset by the incident, ambushed a contractor and fired three shots at his vehicle before fleeing the scene. On August 31 at 1:50 pm, Yala’s 191 Emergency Response Centre received a report of a shooting at the Malayu Bangkok market. The caller, who was driving a black pickup truck, reported that two men had fired three shots at his vehicle. The bullets hit just below the driver’s side window, but fortunately, no one was injured. The assailants escaped on a black Scoopy motorcycle heading towards the Paramitae intersection. Police Lieutenant Chotiphong Siyong and a team of investigators arrived at the scene shortly after. They found the pickup truck parked in the market with a bullet hole in the front driver’s door. Initial findings suggest that the attackers took the shell casings with them. The victim, Sakkarin, a durian contractor, described the events. He said he was heading home to take a shower when his truck was grazed by a motorcycle. “I looked back, and he waved at me. I went home as usual, thinking nothing of it. After showering, I drove out and saw them on the road again. “We argued, and he pulled out a gun. I got back into my car, and he started shooting while shouting, ‘Do you know who I am?’ I quickly turned around, and he fired three more shots as I drove away.” The altercation seems to have resulted from the minor collision, as Sakkarin and the attackers did not know each other beforehand. After the incident, Yala City Police investigators quickly interviewed Sakkarin and other witnesses at the scene. Police have also instructed all checkpoints to be on alert for the black Scoopy motorcycle used by the attackers to help apprehend them and proceed with legal action. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

New Pheu Thai-Led Government to Begin Work Mid-September Thailand's new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, front right, is congratulated by former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, left, after Paetongtarn received a royal letter of endorsement for the post at the Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) The new Pheu Thai-led government is not expected to begin operations until mid-September, announced acting Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai today (Aug. 31). The delay is due to the meticulous screening and double-checking process of all 36 ministers-designate, including Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337031-new-pheu-thai-led-government-to-begin-work-mid-september/

Thailand's new Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, front right, is congratulated by former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, left, after Paetongtarn received a royal letter of endorsement for the post at the Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand Sunday, Aug. 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit) The new Pheu Thai-led government is not expected to begin operations until mid-September, announced acting Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai today (Aug. 31). The delay is due to the meticulous screening and double-checking process of all 36 ministers-designate, including Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra. Each minister-designate, hailing from various coalition partners, is being carefully vetted by the Secretariat of the Cabinet and the Council of State. This process is essential before the list is forwarded to the monarch for formal appointment. This thorough procedure is anticipated to take a couple of weeks. Only after this can the new government officially begin its duties. The new cabinet, led by Paetongtarn Shinawatra, the daughter of Thaksin Shinawatra, will partake in traditional ceremonies before assuming office. These include an audience with His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn, a formal appointment by the monarch, and an oath-taking ritual. Following these, the government will formally declare its policies at Parliament. Phumtham, who is designated as deputy prime minister and defense minister in Paetongtarn's cabinet, emphasized the significance of these processes. The new lineup notably includes members from various political backgrounds, including the Democrats, who have historically been adversaries of Pheu Thai. Phumtham reassured that one of Pheu Thai's flagship policies, a 10,000-baht digital wallet initiative for approximately 45 million individuals aged 16 and over, will be implemented as planned, alongside other economic recovery schemes. The new administration under Paetongtarn is set to replace the government of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin. Srettha was recently stripped of his prime-ministerial status by the Constitutional Court due to a severe breach of conduct. As the new government prepares to take the reins, all eyes will be on the developments in Thailand's political landscape. The emphasis on thorough screening and traditional ceremonies underscores the importance of legitimacy and due process in this significant transition. -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Viral Video Shows Pattaya Official Allegedly Slapping Bar Worker By Aim Tanakorn A Pattaya city official allegedly slapped an intoxicated Thai bar worker during a confrontation, sparking public outrage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337030-viral-video-shows-pattaya-official-allegedly-slapping-bar-worker/

A Pattaya city official allegedly slapped an intoxicated Thai bar worker during a confrontation, sparking public outrage. A video clip currently going viral on Thai social media reportedly shows a confrontation between a Pattaya city official and a female bar worker that escalated to physical violence. According to the footage, the official, a municipality worker, appeared to slap the bar worker in the face before attempting to force her into the back of a city pickup truck to be taken to the police station. The incident occurred at approximately 6:00 AM on August 27th, 2024, in front of a convenience store on Walking Street in South Pattaya. On the evening of August 31st, The Pattaya News reporters visited the scene of the incident. An eyewitness, who requested not to be named, recounted the events, stating that an intoxicated bar worker had entered the convenience store and began arguing with the staff. When the situation escalated into shouting and nearly a physical altercation, the store contacted Pattaya City’s special operations officers, aka the municipality, to intervene. A city patrol vehicle soon arrived, and the officers attempted to escort the woman into the vehicle. However, she resisted, leading to a confrontation between her and the officers. The eyewitness stated that they did not see the officer strike the woman, only that she was taken to Pattaya Police Station to calm down. By Aim Tanakorn Source: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe Edited just now by webfact

Warning issued for Patong beach after bluebottle jellyfish found by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of The Marine and Coastal Resources Research Center (Upper Andaman Sea) Officials in Phuket issued a warning for Patong beach visitors after dozens of venomous bluebottle jellyfish were found washed ashore. The Marine and Coastal Resources Research Centre (Upper Andaman Sea) reported encountering the jellyfish on the beach yesterday evening. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337029-warning-issued-for-patong-beach-after-bluebottle-jellyfish-found/

Officials in Phuket issued a warning for Patong beach visitors after dozens of venomous bluebottle jellyfish were found washed ashore. The Marine and Coastal Resources Research Centre (Upper Andaman Sea) reported encountering the jellyfish on the beach yesterday evening. Officials from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) and lifeguards from Patong Surf Life Saving quickly responded, discovering 40 bluebottles in the shallow waters. These jellyfish were driven towards the shore by strong winds. Fortunately, no sting incidents have been reported so far. The DMCR has distributed warning leaflets to the public, business owners, and tourists, advising swimmers to exercise caution and avoid contact with the bluebottles. Lifeguards are on standby to administer first aid for jellyfish stings and will closely monitor jellyfish activity in the water, reported Bangkok Post. A sting from a bluebottle jellyfish can result in severe pain, whip-like welts, and sores on the affected skin areas. First aid recommendations include rinsing the sting site with seawater and immersing the area in hot water, such as in a hot shower, for 20 minutes or applying a dry cold pack to alleviate pain. Experts advise against using vinegar for treating bluebottle stings. In related news, a warning has been issued about the presence of the highly venomous Portuguese Man o’ War jellyfish in the waters of Lah Bay and Tue Bay at Racha Yai Island, Phuket. Tourists and those engaging in marine activities in the area are advised to exercise extreme caution to avoid contact with these dangerous creatures. The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment issued the alert on June 24. The Portuguese Man o’ War, often mistaken for a jellyfish, is known for its potent venom. Contact with its tentacles can cause severe pain, and skin irritation, and, in extreme cases, can affect the nervous and cardiovascular systems, potentially leading to death. by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of The Marine and Coastal Resources Research Center (Upper Andaman Sea) Source: The Thaiger 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe Edited just now by webfact

Experts Say Another Thai Military Coup is Unlikely Thai soldiers at the Chang Phueak Gate in Chiang Mai. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Although Thailand has experienced frequent military coups since 1932, political analysts today say the conditions for another coup are not favourable. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337028-experts-say-another-thai-military-coup-is-unlikely/

Thai soldiers at the Chang Phueak Gate in Chiang Mai. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Although Thailand has experienced frequent military coups since 1932, political analysts today say the conditions for another coup are not favourable. Historically, coups often gained legitimacy through public support, but the current landscape differs significantly from 2014, when General Prayut Chan-o-cha annulled the constitution amid considerable public backing. Major legislative changes and evolving political dynamics further underscore why a coup is unlikely, writes Barry Kenyon for Pattaya Mail. The Ministry of Defence has enacted new regulations allowing the Prime Minister to suspend generals suspected of planning a coup. Additionally, the abolishment of military courts—where appeals were previously not permitted—reduces the military’s unchecked power. A decade ago, the “yellow shirts” orchestrated widespread protests against the civilian government, fuelling the conditions for a military intervention. These protests, which targeted policies favouring exiled former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, no longer command significant political influence. Thaksin, who recently received a royal pardon, is now an adviser to the ruling Pheu Thai Party, diminishing the kind of discord that previously led to coups. Thaksin himself downplayed the possibility of a coup, highlighting the absence of street violence and chaos, reported Pattaya Mail. Military-backed parties have lost much of their political clout. The unelected Senate, with 250 appointees endorsed by Prayut's government, has been dissolved. Its replacement has no role in selecting the Prime Minister. General Prawit Wongsuwon leads the diminished Palang Pracharath Party, which has splintered, with some members joining the civilian-led Pheu Thai administration. Prayut has retired from active politics to join the Privy Council, leaving the Thai military as a less unified political entity. The spectre of another military junta cannot be entirely disregarded, especially as suspicion lingers over Thaksin’s unresolved charges of disloyalty to the crown. Yet, the constitutional court provides a non-violent means to influence politics. This nine-judge body has the power to rule on the constitutionality of laws, appoint and remove officials, and address issues involving political parties. Recently, the court banned the Move Forward Party and dismissed Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, illustrating a shift from military to judicial coups. The term "lawfare" is increasingly used to describe how political battles are now fought in Thailand, reducing the need for military interventions. -- 2024-09-02 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 2 September 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1337027-thailand-live-monday-2-september-2024/

3 American Bully Dogs Fatally Attack an 18-Year-Old Man An 18-year-old man was found dead on his bed after being viciously attacked by three American Bully dogs. The gruesome discovery was made by his mother and older brother, who returned home to find his lifeless body covered in bite marks, with blood splatters throughout the house. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336969-lopburi-18-year-old-man-fatally-attacked-by-three-american-bully-dogs/

NACC Awaits Hospital CCTV Footage in Thaksin Treatment Investigation FILE - Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, center, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is still waiting for CCTV footage from the Police General Hospital, Bangkok, as part of its investigation into potential preferential treatment given to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra during his hospital stay. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336942-nacc-awaits-hospital-cctv-footage-in-thaksin-treatment-investigation/

FILE - Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, center, arrives at Don Muang airport in Bangkok, Thailand, on Aug. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File) The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is still waiting for CCTV footage from the Police General Hospital, Bangkok, as part of its investigation into potential preferential treatment given to former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra during his hospital stay. NACC Secretary-General Niwatchai Kasemmongkol stated yesterday that the commission has gathered substantial information and will soon decide if there is enough evidence to proceed with questioning. The NACC has contacted the Department of Corrections and Police General Hospital to obtain CCTV footage from the hospital’s 14th floor but has not received any. Niwatchai noted that they may need to verify whether the footage exists and is usable. The NACC has also requested Thaksin’s medical records and related documents, although only some have been provided. Niwatchai emphasized that the law gives the NACC the authority to investigate and the right to verify why evidence is being withheld. Previously, Seri Ruam Thai Party leader Sereepisuth Temeeyaves announced the party's decision to withdraw from the Pheu Thai-led coalition government. He claimed to have important information about Thaksin, including details of his hospital treatment, and expressed his willingness to testify before the NACC. Niwatchai mentioned that officials need to determine whether it is necessary to summon Sereepisuth for questioning. The NACC is also reviewing findings from the Human Rights Commission (NHRC), which suggested that Thaksin received better treatment than other inmates. Niwatchai stated that the NACC would handle these findings as supporting evidence, in accordance with the constitutional definition. An NACC source revealed that the agency plans to summon officials from the Bangkok Remand Prison and the Police General Hospital to inquire further about the matter, including questioning correctional officers and medical personnel involved in Thaksin’s treatment. Reports indicate that over 100 correctional officers and executives from the Department of Corrections were involved in Thaksin’s hospital care, and they will be required to testify before the NACC. -- 2024-08-31 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Prosecutor defends involvement in Red Bull heir hit-and-run case by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post A former senior prosecutor has revealed he assisted Red Bull heir Vorayuth Yoovidhya in the 2012 hit-and-run case due to a compassionate gesture, as the driver was a friend of his niece. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336925-bail-granted-to-somyot-and-others-in-boss-yoovidhya-case/?do=findComment&comment=19194605

Prosecutor defends involvement in Red Bull heir hit-and-run case by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post A former senior prosecutor has revealed he assisted Red Bull heir Vorayuth Yoovidhya in the 2012 hit-and-run case due to a compassionate gesture, as the driver was a friend of his niece. Chainarong Saengthong-aram, one of eight defendants accused of mishandling the high-profile incident that resulted in the death of a policeman, allegedly underreported the speed of Vorayuth’s Ferrari from an estimated 177 kilometres per hour to below the legal limit of 80 kilometres per hour. The trial is set to commence at the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases tomorrow at 9.30am. Chainarong expressed his relief at the opportunity to prove his innocence, claiming that committees such as the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) and the attorney general have treated him unfairly. “I will file a counter-suit, totalling seven cases, against the attorney general, including misconduct and malicious prosecution, to subject me to criminal penalties.” The ex-prosecutor also plans to present evidence demonstrating that a video clip used against him by the NACC and the attorney general had been edited. When questioned about his integrity in handling Vorayuth’s case, Chainarong cited the Criminal Procedure Code, Section 134, asserting that the accused has the right to present facts in his favour. Chainarong admitted he assisted Vorayuth because the young man was a friend of his niece. He stated that before getting involved, he reviewed Section 797 of the Civil and Commercial Code to confirm his legal right to intervene in the case as an individual, not as a prosecutor, reported Bangkok Post. “At that time, I was a prosecutor in the jurisdiction of the Criminal Court, Criminal Division 6, but Vorayuth’s case occurred in the precinct of Thonglor Police Station, which is under the Bangkok South Criminal Court’s jurisdiction. “I am a prosecutor but also a human being. How is it wrong to help friends or relatives when the case is not within my jurisdictive responsibility?” When asked if he received any compensation for his actions, Chainarong firmly denied it. “Just a generous courtesy for being a helpful friend. I did not receive any money. You can check my financial records.” Sour: The Thaiger 2024-08-31 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Foreign Tourists and Taxi Drivers Charged after Brawl near Phuket Shopping Mall- VIDEO By Goongnang Suksawat Five foreign tourists and three taxi drivers faced charges after a video of them fighting went viral on social media. The altercation occurred in front of a shopping mall near the Darasamut Intersection in Wichit, Mueang Phuket on Wednesday night (August 28th). Wichit Police Chief Colonel Chatree Chookaew ordered an investigation into the incident following the video going viral online. The foreign tourists and taxi drivers were then summoned to the Wichit Police Station. According to a taxi driver’s account, the conflict began when a group of foreign tourists waiting for a taxi had one individual lean against the taxi. The taxi owner asked the tourist not to do so, but the tourist became upset and refused, leading to an argument and physical altercation. During the fight, one of the tourists threw a bottle at the taxi driver. Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS 2024-08-31 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

The streets of Phuket resembled more like a battle scene than a picturesque holiday resort after a furious brawl broke out between local taxi drivers and foreign tourists, raising fresh concerns about visitor safety. What started as a squabble quickly spiralled into a full-blown fight, drawing a large crowd of shocked onlookers. Wichit Police stepped in today, August 30, after a chaotic street brawl between five foreign tourists and three local taxi drivers turned viral. The scrap, which broke out on Wichit Songkram Road by the Darasamut Intersection, was captured in a 26-second video buzzing on social media. The caption said, “It’s famous again #Phuket is very hot, taxis vs tourists in front of a famous shopping mall!” The video shows a wild scene where punches and bottles fly as tensions flare. According to reports, the fight kicked off when three Iranian women stood in front of a taxi. The driver asked them to move, which set off a chain reaction of irritation. The women’s husbands, reportedly tipsy, joined the fray, and things quickly got out of hand. The brawl saw the drunk tourists make a swift exit, leaving a smaller group behind who then called the police. The footage also showed a woman’s necklace being snatched in the melee. Online, the incident sparked a firestorm of comments, with users divided. Some slammed the rowdy tourists, while others called for tougher action against such behaviour. “Don’t blame only Thais. There are a lot of bad tourists in Patong.” “Good people have a hard time, there are only scumbags and thugs. Officers shouldn’t make the law weak.” In response, Wichit Police Chief Pol Col Chatree Chueakaew sent officers to sort out the mess. The tourists and drivers were hauled into Wichit Police Station for questioning. The cops found that the row began when the tourists were leaning against a parked taxi while waiting for a ride to their Patong hotel. When the driver asked them to move, it sparked a heated argument that soon turned violent. After reviewing CCTV footage, the police found both sides equally responsible for the ruckus. They’ve been charged with, “colluding in a loud fight in a public place or public area, or engaging in behaviour that disturbs public peace and order.” Despite the charges, everyone agreed to move on without grudges and went their separate ways, reported Phuket News. Picture courtesy of Phuket News Photo of Bob Scott Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-31 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Parliament Greenlights Thailand-EU Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation Agreement Picture courtesy: Sanook Thailand's parliament has granted unanimous endorsement to the EU-Thailand Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA). The agreement, set to take effect in 30 days, aims to enhance bilateral relations and foster cooperation across multiple key policy areas. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336931-parliament-greenlights-thailand-eu-comprehensive-partnership-and-cooperation-agreement/