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File photo In a dramatic turn of events, former Democrat MP Charnchai Issarasenarak has officially petitioned the Supreme Court to consider sending Thaksin Shinawatra back to prison. Efforts are also sought to investigate alleged irregularities in his release facilitated by the Corrections Department. The petition, submitted today, urges the Supreme Court to review the circumstances under which Thaksin was granted effectively preferential treatment, avoiding imprisonment upon his return from a 17-year self-imposed exile in 2023. The former Thai Prime Minister, and influential political figure, had been sentenced to a curtailed one-year imprisonment by the Supreme Court due to charges of power abuse during his tenure in office. Critics argue that Thaksin, whose daughter Paetongtarn Shinawatra is the current Prime Minister, was allowed to serve his sentence under questionable conditions. Allegedly, he was granted a six-month hospital stay at Police Hospital instead of fulfilling his sentence in Bangkok Remand Prison. This arrangement reportedly exploited legal ambiguities to extend undue privileges, potentially undermining the judiciary’s authority. Charnchai contends that the Corrections Department’s actions, in conjunction with certain executive officers, amounted to government misconduct by facilitating Thaksin’s avoidance of jail through purported health concerns. Upon supposed medical necessity, Thaksin’s stay at the hospital reportedly coincided with his release on parole, sanctioned by Justice Minister and Prachachart leader Thavi Sodsong last year. The petition raises significant questions about the integrity and consistency of the legal system in enforcing judicial decisions, especially those concerning high-profile political figures. The case underscores ongoing tensions between branches of government and the continued scrutiny of Thailand's political landscape. The Supreme Court judges, specifically tasked with overseeing criminal cases involving political figures, now face a pivotal decision in acting upon Charnchai’s petition. Whether the court will choose to reinstate Thaksin’s prison sentence or dismiss the appeal remains to be seen, as the matter highlights broader concerns over equality and justice within the Thai legal framework. This unfolding story captures the complexities entwining politics and law in Thailand, as observers keenly watch for the Supreme Court’s response and the potential implications for Thaksin and the country's political order, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-01-16

Trump's Nominee Rubio Pledges to Lobby Thailand on Uyghur Detainees Picture courtesy: Facebook Immigration Bureau Marco Rubio, nominated by Donald Trump for the role of US Secretary of State, has unequivocally committed to persuading Thailand against deporting 48 Uyghur detainees to China. This pledge arises amidst significant human rights concerns about the potential fate of the Uyghurs if returned to China. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1349012-trumps-nominee-rubio-pledges-to-lobby-thailand-on-uyghur-detainees/

Picture courtesy: Facebook Immigration Bureau Marco Rubio, nominated by Donald Trump for the role of US Secretary of State, has unequivocally committed to persuading Thailand against deporting 48 Uyghur detainees to China. This pledge arises amidst significant human rights concerns about the potential fate of the Uyghurs if returned to China. The announcement came during Rubio’s confirmation hearing in Washington on Wednesday, where he promised to leverage his potential new role to influence Thailand’s decision-making. The Uyghurs, hailing from China's Xinjiang region, have long faced persecution, with around 1.8 million reportedly held in internment camps starting 2017. Recent reports have resurfaced, indicating that Thailand might proceed with their deportation, igniting a fervent response during the hearing. Democratic Senator Jeff Merkley prompted Rubio to articulate his stance on the matter, emphasising the urgency and ethical weight of preventing the deportations. Rubio, who maintains a firm stance on China-related policies, assured the committee that he would actively engage Thailand, highlighting the strategic and longstanding alliance between Thailand and the United States as a pivotal aspect of the diplomatic effort. He expressed optimism that America's close partnership with Thailand could indeed render the desired results. An encouraging development has been noted by the World Uyghur Congress (WUC), which suggests that the heightened international spotlight may have temporarily alleviated the immediate threat of deportation. Confidential discussions with Thai insiders reveal that Thailand remains wary of repeating the international outcry that followed the 2015 deportation of over 100 Uyghurs to China, an act that substantially impaired its diplomatic image. Further assurance came from the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, which, upon hearing unverified rumours of deportation preparations, received contrasting assurances from Thai authorities, suggesting no imminent action. The saga began in the early 2010s when Thailand emerged as a critical route for Uyghurs escaping the increasing repression at home and seeking asylum in Turkey. In 2014, approximately 350 were detained near the Malaysian border, with many later deported or enduring harsh conditions in Thai detention centres. More than 100 were forcibly returned to China in 2015, with their current whereabouts remaining unknown. This ongoing situation illustrates the complexity of international diplomacy and human rights advocacy, as Rubio stands poised to potentially influence this delicate affair in his prospective role, adding yet another layer to the multifaceted global stage, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-16

Thai Man Attacks Swiss with Cue Over Alleged Pool Cheat FILE photo for reference only. A Thai man, aged 30, attacked a Swiss man after accusing him of cheating during a game of pool at a bar in Pattaya. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348977-thai-man-attacks-swiss-with-cue-over-alleged-pool-cheat/

FILE photo for reference only. A Thai man, aged 30, attacked a Swiss man after accusing him of cheating during a game of pool at a bar in Pattaya. On 16 January, Pattaya's Sawang Boriboon Rescue Centre received reports of an assault resulting in injuries at a bar on Khao Talo road. Police and rescue volunteers responded swiftly to the scene. Upon arrival, authorities found Devin, a 36-year-old Swiss national, suffering from a wrist injury inflicted by a pool cue. Rescue workers provided initial treatment before transporting him to a hospital. The Thai man responsible, identified as Anand, appeared heavily intoxicated and was detained by police. Anand told officers that he and the victim had been playing pool together, but claimed the Swiss man was cheating. This led to a heated argument during which Anand admitted to striking him with the cue, alleging the victim had attacked him first. The bar owner, who witnessed the incident, recounted that Anand reacted angrily after losing the game and accused the Swiss man of cheating. Despite the owner's attempts to intervene, Anand, in his drunken state, ignored the warnings, prompting the call to the police, reported CH 7. -- 2025-01-16

Northern Irishman fights for life after Thailand holiday accident by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of the Sunday World Friends, family, and co-workers are rallying behind a Northern Irishman left fighting for his life following a shocking accident while on a dream holiday in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348968-northern-irishman-fights-for-life-after-thailand-holiday-accident/

Picture courtesy of the Sunday World by Bob Scott Friends, family, and co-workers are rallying behind a Northern Irishman left fighting for his life following a shocking accident while on a dream holiday in Thailand. Ryan Daly, from Portadown, had set off on an ambitious round-the-world trip when tragedy struck, leaving him on life support and his loved ones in turmoil. The 27 year old care attendant, known for his dedication and compassion while working with J & K Coaches’ ambulance department in Moneymore, now finds himself in dire need of care, prompting his employer to launch a heartwarming fundraiser yesterday, January 15. Already, generous well-wishers have contributed nearly £8,000 (338,00 baht) to support his family during this unimaginable ordeal, said a company spokesperson. “Tragically, Ryan was involved in a devastating accident this week and is now on life support in Thailand.” His heartbroken mother, Julie, and sister, Lucy, have journeyed to be by his side after receiving the traumatic news of his critical condition, although the details of Daly’s accident have yet to be revealed by Thai officials. In a heartfelt plea to the community, the spokesperson added, “In response, we have created this fundraising page to offer support to Julie and Lucy, and we’re reaching out to you, our community, followers, and clients, to help us provide the assistance they need.” Daly, whose kindness and unwavering commitment to helping others have left a lasting impact, now needs the community’s support more than ever, said the company spokesperson. “Your contribution, no matter the size, can make a meaningful difference. Please join us in standing with the Daly family during this heart-wrenching time.” To lend a helping hand, the fundraiser is accessible at www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/jkcoaches-daly-family-fundraiser. Every donation brings hope and comfort to a family facing their darkest hours, uniting a community in solidarity and support. News of Daly’s misfortune comes hot on the heels of another young Irishman, whose body was discovered lifeless on a Thai island. The body of Robert “Robby” Kinlan was found on January 9 in Koh Tao, ominously dubbed “Death Island” due to a chilling pattern of tourist fatalities. Initial post-mortem examinations have pointed towards acute pulmonary cardiac failure as the cause of his untimely demise, but as investigations continue, the mystery surrounding his death only deepens as no information has been revealed to why his heart failed. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-16

Irish diver’s fate revealed on Thailand’s ‘Death Island’ by Bob Scott Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail UPDATE In a heartbreaking twist that has sent shockwaves through a small Irish village, the tragic fate of a young Irish diver discovered lifeless on a Thai island has been made public. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348966-irish-diver’s-fate-revealed-on-thailand’s-‘death-island’/

Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail UPDATE by Bob Scott In a heartbreaking twist that has sent shockwaves through a small Irish village, the tragic fate of a young Irish diver discovered lifeless on a Thai island has been made public. The body of Robert “Robby” Kinlan was found on January 9 in Koh Tao, ominously dubbed “Death Island” due to a chilling pattern of tourist fatalities. Initial post-mortem examinations have pointed towards acute pulmonary cardiac failure as the cause of his untimely demise, but as investigations continue, the mystery surrounding his death only deepens as no information has been revealed to why his heart failed. “His death was very unexpected,” shared Tracy King, his heartbroken mother, when speaking with the Irish Daily Mail. The 21 year old, a skilled free diver and master diver, left for Thailand on November 20 last year in high spirits, obtaining two diving qualifications shortly after his arrival, said Robby’s mother. “He was in a really good place mentally and his normal self.” Picture of Robby courtesy of Sunday World Hailing from the picturesque village of Quilty in County Clare, Robby had set his sights on the vibrant diving havens in Southeast Asia. “He just walked in one day and said, ‘I am going to Thailand. I have already booked the ticket.’ It was where all the diving was. He was doing very, very well over there and supported himself through his diving qualifications.” Grieving friends have set up a fundraiser to bring Robby’s body back to Ireland, amassing nearly 45,000 euros (1.6 million baht) by Wednesday morning. Paying tribute to the vivacious backpacker, a close friend said he was the kind of person who lit up every room with his kindness and warmth. “He was always the first to help others, putting their needs before his own without a second thought.” In his final days, Robby’s dreams came alive amid Koh Tao’s azure depths, as he free dived and scuba-dived in the place that brought him boundless joy, surrounded by an ever-growing circle of friends. His untimely passing has cast a dark shadow over what should have been the adventure of a lifetime, leaving those who knew him grappling for answers and mourning a life tragically cut short. RELATED TOPIC Heartbroken Irish mum honours ‘special son’ lost on Koh Tao https://aseannow.com/topic/1348669-heartbroken-irish-mum-honours-‘special-son’-lost-on-koh-tao/ Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-16

British Skincare Brand 'The Body Shop' to Close All Thai Stores Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The Body Shop, a popular British skincare brand, has announced it will be closing its stores across Thailand, with the final day of trading set for 31st January 2025. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348957-british-skincare-brand-the-body-shop-to-close-all-thai-stores/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath The Body Shop, a popular British skincare brand, has announced it will be closing its stores across Thailand, with the final day of trading set for 31st January 2025. In a heartfelt Facebook post, The Body Shop Thailand expressed gratitude, saying, "Thank you for all the love - See you again soon." They reassured customers that this is not a permanent farewell but a temporary pause with the message, "Hold on a little longer and see you again soon!" After years of providing environmentally friendly and ethically sourced beauty products, The Body Shop is taking this break with appreciation for all its customers’ support, hinting at a possible return in the future, reported Thai Rath. -- 2025-01-16

Thai Tourist Police Enhance Efforts to Boost Confidence in Bangkok's Thonburi Area Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 14th January, officers from the Tourist Police Region 3, led by Deputy Superintendent Pol Lt Col Jirapat Kheosiri, conducted a safety patrol around Wat Arun Ratchawararam in Thonburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348954-thai-tourist-police-enhance-efforts-to-boost-confidence-in-bangkoks-thonburi-area/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 14th January, officers from the Tourist Police Region 3, led by Deputy Superintendent Pol Lt Col Jirapat Kheosiri, conducted a safety patrol around Wat Arun Ratchawararam in Thonburi. Their focus was to boost tourist confidence and promote the new Thailand Tourist Police app, an initiative aligned with the policies introduced by Tourist Police Commissioner, Pol Lt Gen Saksripiak. Launched on 12th December 2024, this app allows tourists to conveniently report incidents, send messages, images, and locations, effectively connecting them to the 1155 emergency centre. With multilingual support in eight languages available 24/7, the app aims to streamline communication between tourists and local authorities, enhancing the ability to respond to and assist in emergencies efficiently. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath This new initiative not only strengthens tourist safety but also bolsters Thailand's image as a top travel destination. The app is available for download on both Android and iOS, ensuring easy access for international visitors, thereby improving overall tourist experiences and safety outcomes, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-01-16

Thailand Backs Bill to Empower Small Liquor Producers In a groundbreaking move, Thailand's House of Representatives passed a pivotal bill on Wednesday aimed at transforming the nation's liquor industry by empowering small-scale and community-based producers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348934-thailand-backs-bill-to-empower-small-liquor-producers/

File photo for reference only. In a groundbreaking move, Thailand's House of Representatives passed a pivotal bill on Wednesday aimed at transforming the nation's liquor industry by empowering small-scale and community-based producers. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra lauded the decision, emphasising that this could break the long-standing dominance of a few major corporations, while boosting the rural economy. The newly-approved Community Liquor Bill is designed to provide a fair playing field for individual entrepreneurs, cooperatives, and farmers' associations, allowing them to obtain licences to produce and sell various types of alcohol. An overwhelming majority of 415 out of 420 lawmakers supported the bill, which now advances to the Senate for further debate. This legislative shift opens doors for microbreweries and small distilleries, potentially challenging the decades-long stranglehold of industry giants like Thai Beverage and Boon Rawd Brewery. The revised regulations are also expected to benefit restaurants and pubs, enabling them to create unique drinks, catering especially to international tourists' tastes. Prior reform attempts include the 2022 initiative, which did away with stringent requirements on capital and production capacity for small producers. This was yet another step towards democratising Thailand's alcohol production landscape. As it stands, Thailand's domestic alcoholic drink sales amounted to 2.97 billion litres, worth approximately 584 billion Thai Baht (equivalent to $16.3 billion) in 2023, reported Krungsri Research. Beer and spirits dominate the market, comprising 55.8% and 36.1% of the total value, respectively. With parliamentary approval pending, detailed ministerial regulations need development before licences are issued, explained Chanin Rungtanakiat of the Pheu Thai Party. If related agencies act promptly, the bill might be implemented by October. Taopiphop Limjittrakorn, an advocate for dismantling the liquor monopoly, expressed optimism. His relentless campaign helped shape aspects of this bill, though he's committed to pushing for his own Progressive Liquor Bill too. In a heartfelt post on X, he recalled his journey from being arrested for homebrewing almost eight years ago to today, lauding the collaborative efforts across party lines. Founded in 1933, Boon Rawd remains a major player under the Bhirombhakdi family, noted as Thailand’s 19th wealthiest by Forbes. Meanwhile, ThaiBev, created by Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi, who ranks as the nation's third-richest individual, controls a significant share of both the beer and spirits markets. This new legislation symbolises a notable shift towards smaller producers, envisaging a more diverse and dynamic alcohol industry in Thailand. If enacted, it holds the promise of economic revitalisation and increased choice for consumers, marking a significant moment in the country's economic narrative, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-16

Polish man arrested for spanking Thai woman’s bottom (video) by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เจาะลึกทั่วไทย Inside Thailand Police arrested a Polish man at his condominium in Bangkok for spanking a Thai woman’s bottom in a convenience store. He claimed he was unaware that his actions were illegal and stated that he had done the same thing to many women before. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348940-polish-man-arrested-for-spanking-thai-woman’s-bottom-video/

Photo via Facebook/ เจาะลึกทั่วไทย Inside Thailand by Petch Petpailin Police arrested a Polish man at his condominium in Bangkok for spanking a Thai woman’s bottom in a convenience store. He claimed he was unaware that his actions were illegal and stated that he had done the same thing to many women before. The Thai woman filed a complaint with Tung Maha Mek Police Station after being assaulted while picking products at a convenience store in the Sathon area of Bangkok on Sunday, January 12. The foreign man approached her from behind and spanked her on the bottom forcefully before walking away. The victim said that she initially thought her friend was playing a prank on her and turned to check who it was. She was shocked to find that the person was not her friend but a foreign stranger. Other customers in the store, as well as the staff, stared at her as though they wanted to blame her for the assault. She felt embarrassed and immediately left the store. After consulting with her family, she decided to take legal action against the foreign man. The victim added that she did not want any compensation from the foreign man but wanted him to apologise for his actions and to refrain from repeating the sexual assault towards anyone else. Photo via KomChadLuek Based on CCTV footage, police successfully identified the foreign man as 31 year old Polish national Piotr. Officers contacted an agent of the condominium where Piotr was renting and asked them to inform the foreign man of the legal consequences of his actions. A summons warrant was issued, requesting that the Polish man come to the police station to apologise to the victim. However, he did not comply and told his agent… “I did not spank her hard. I’ve done this many times before in nightclubs and no one complained. I didn’t do anything illegal. This isn’t a criminal act at all. Why should I be punished? The police can do nothing to me and I’m about to leave Thailand.” Photo via Facebook/ เจาะลึกทั่วไทย Inside Thailand Following the Polish man’s excuse, the victim decided to pursue further legal action, leading police to raid the condominium and arrest Piotr on January 14. The foreigner was charged under Section 278 of the Criminal Law: sexually assaulting a person aged over 15 years old. The penalty is imprisonment for up to 10 years, a fine of up to 200,000 baht, or both. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-16

Pattaya Teens Recklessly Ride Motorcycles, Slapping Indian Tourists' Heads on Sidewalk Picture courtesy: Amarin TV A group of young motorcyclists in Pattaya has been harassing tourists by slapping their heads as they walk along the streets. This bizarre behaviour led to calls for immediate police action to safeguard the city’s image. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348929-pattaya-teens-recklessly-ride-motorcycles-slapping-indian-tourists-heads-on-sidewalk/

French Restaurant Owners in Phuket Arrested for Assault Picture courtesy: News1 A disturbing incident unfolded recently in Phuket's Patong area, involving two French nationals who own a local restaurant. The pair allegedly attacked two Burmese workers who arrived late for work. The assault left one of the workers unconscious and severely injured. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348932-french-restaurant-owners-in-phuket-arrested-for-assault/

Adviser Appointment Puts PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Hot Water Nattawut Saikuar. Picture courtesy: New TV Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is once again under scrutiny, as activist Sonthiya Sawasdee has filed a formal petition challenging her recent appointment of Nattawut Saikuar, a former red shirt activist with a criminal history, as her adviser. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348928-adviser-appointment-puts-pm-paetongtarn-shinawatra-in-hot-water/

TAT Scrambles to Restore Thailand's Image After Chinese Actor's Scam Centre Ordeal Wan Xing aka Xingxing. Picture courtesy: Facebook The Reporters The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is swiftly taking action to restore Thailand's image among Chinese tourists following the harrowing experience of Chinese actor Xingxing. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348927-tat-scrambles-to-restore-thailands-image-after-chinese-actors-scam-centre-ordeal/

Wan Xing aka Xingxing. Picture courtesy: Facebook The Reporters The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is swiftly taking action to restore Thailand's image among Chinese tourists following the harrowing experience of Chinese actor Xingxing. He was reportedly coerced into a scam centre in Myawaddy, Myanmar, just across the border from Thailand's Mae Sot. The incident has led to a notable drop in tourist numbers and the cancellation of some events, according to reports on January 15. TAT Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool addressed the issue, explaining that the actor's detention and subsequent release in early January sparked widespread reactions on Chinese social media. These reactions have contributed to fears among potential tourists, many of whom have never visited Thailand. In response, TAT is introducing chartered flights aimed at reassuring apprehensive tourists. Although the incident has led to some flight cancellations, Thapanee noted that tourists familiar with Thailand's hospitality and safety remain largely undeterred. In fact, 90 to 95% of independent travelers, who typically use regular airlines, are reportedly continuing their plans to visit Thailand. Nevertheless, efforts are being concentrated on improving Thailand's online image and conveying accurate information to Chinese audiences. All five TAT offices in China are collaborating with travel agents, tour operators, and airlines to ensure tourists receive a warm welcome during the Chinese New Year. Their focus lies on presenting Thailand as a safe destination, offering high-quality products and services, and providing a memorable holiday experience. Moreover, Tourism and Sports Minister Surawong Theinthong is prioritising collaboration with the Tourist Police to enhance safety measures, reassuring both new and returning visitors of Thailand's commitment to tourist welfare. This proactive approach aims to counteract the negative publicity generated by Xingxing's ordeal and emphasises Thailand’s standing as a safe and inviting destination for travellers from around the world. With the implementation of these strategies, the TAT hopes to win back the confidence of Chinese tourists and stabilise tourism numbers once more, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-01-16

Nattawut Saikuar. Picture courtesy: New TV Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is once again under scrutiny, as activist Sonthiya Sawasdee has filed a formal petition challenging her recent appointment of Nattawut Saikuar, a former red shirt activist with a criminal history, as her adviser. The case, filed on Wednesday, seeks to have the issue reviewed by the Constitutional Court, asserting that the appointment breaches constitutional ethics provisions. The controversy stems from Prime Minister Paetongtarn's decision on 4th October last year to appoint Nattawut, a high-profile figure from the red shirt protest movement, which has sparked concerns regarding compliance with ethical standards. According to Mr Sonthiya, the appointment violates several sections of the Thai Constitution, notably Section 160, which demands that cabinet members uphold moral integrity and ethical standards in political appointments. Notably, the Constitutional Court previously removed Thailand's former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin from office in 2022 for a similar ethical breach. His transgression involved the appointment of a lawyer with a criminal record to a cabinet position, leading to a complete governmental reshuffle, eventually ushering in Ms Paetongtarn's administration. Mr Sonthiya highlights that Nattawut is presently serving a 10-year political ban, and was sentenced in 2020 to two years in prison for orchestrating a violent protest in 2007. Despite having served as deputy commerce and agriculture minister from 2012 to 2014 under the Yingluck Shinawatra government, Nattawut's political activity ban stands. Sonthiya argues that the advisory role given to Nattawut is indeed political and contests its propriety given Nattawut's history and the existing political ban. This move adds to a growing list of ethical challenges against Prime Minister Paetongtarn, echoing previous complaints launched by activists Nopparut Worachitwutthikul and Ruangkrai Leekitwattana late last year. Currently, over a dozen petitions have been directed against Ms Paetongtarn and the Pheu Thai Party, spanning allegations of corruption and unethical decision-making. Among these, at least six have been instigated by Mr Ruangkrai, underscoring pervasive scrutiny of the government's adherence to constitutional statutes during its appointments. As the matter heads towards potential legal examination, the Prime Minister faces increasing pressure to demonstrate compliance with ethical standards, amidst ongoing political challenges from both within and outside her administration. The outcome of these petitions could have significant implications for the current government's stability and credibility, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-16

Picture courtesy: News1 A disturbing incident unfolded recently in Phuket's Patong area, involving two French nationals who own a local restaurant. The pair allegedly attacked two Burmese workers who arrived late for work. The assault left one of the workers unconscious and severely injured. The incident came to light through a widely shared video on social media, showing two foreign men violently attacking Asian workers. Despite the severity of the attack, no formal complaint had been initially reported. The victims, both Burmese, were hospitalised following the attack, which reportedly occurred on 14th January. Police investigations identified the assailants as SAID IDJIHADI and SOFIANE REDOUANE HADJI, French nationals who had hired five Burmese workers to renovate their French restaurant in Patong. On the day of the incident, displeased with the late arrival of their employees, Mr. Idjihadi slapped one worker, Aye Min, aged 37. Although Aye Min proceeded to work upstairs, tensions escalated. Mr. Idjihadi later confronted Aye Min again, leading to a decision by Mr. Min to leave work. This resulted in a group assault on Aye Min and his co-workers. Mr. Min attempted to flee, but was pursued and violently attacked, suffering lacerations from a sharp object. A concerned citizen eventually transported him to Patong Hospital, where another worker also sustained injuries. Later that evening, police arrested Mr. Idjihadi and Mr. Hadji at their restaurant. They were charged with assault causing physical and psychological harm. Upon confronting the suspects with the video evidence, both men admitted their involvement in the attack. The arrests underscore the seriousness of the crime, with the perpetrators now facing legal consequences, reported News1. -- 2025-01-16

Picture courtesy: Amarin TV A group of young motorcyclists in Pattaya has been harassing tourists by slapping their heads as they walk along the streets. This bizarre behaviour led to calls for immediate police action to safeguard the city’s image. A video, recently shared on Facebook by the page 'Want to be famous? Let me help Part 6', shows CCTV footage capturing these incidents. The footage reveals young bikers approaching groups of Indian tourists before the pillion rider reaches out and slaps a tourist on the head unexpectedly. The post questioned, "Does this ruin our tourism image?", highlighting the repeated occurrences of such attacks. The incidents have reportedly become alarmingly frequent near Pratumnak Hill, with attacks happening almost nightly, particularly on South Pattaya Road near the Citrine Hotel. The actions typically occur between 10 pm and late at night, targeting tourists walking in the area. Santana, a 58-year-old Indian businessman, reported that attacks have persisted for a week. The latest incident occurred on 14 January around 10:58 pm. The attackers, both around 20 years old, were riding a motorcycle when one reached out and forcefully slapped the head of an unsuspecting Indian tourist, causing nearly knocked him off his balance. The assailants quickly fled the scene on their bike. Witnesses like 28-year-old traditional massage therapist Ms. Nut, shared her account, describing how the attackers would indiscriminately slap any group of tourists they passed, questioning their motive with, "Why hit him? What did he do wrong?" She expressed her distress over the negative atmosphere these incidents create. Tao, a local motorbike taxi driver, noted that such happenings are regular, occasionally involving schoolchildren as perpetrators. Most attacks involve Honda PCX bikes, where the pillion rider slaps the tourist's head, sometimes even spitting on them. The area is well-known for its central Indian business community, featuring hotels, restaurants, massage parlours, and travel agencies which attract a substantial number of Indian tourists. Local police are currently investigating these incidents to apprehend those responsible and prevent future occurrences, reported Amarin TV. -- 2025-01-16