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UPDATE: CAAT debunks YouTuber’s aircraft maintenance claims Photo courtesy of JetPhotos The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) has clarified the case where a pilot exposed aircraft mechanics using fake and expired parts for maintenance, causing concern that it could be life-threatening. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336762-thai-youtuber-exposes-substandard-aircraft-repairs/?do=findComment&comment=19190784

FILE - A Thai police officer escorts Spanish Daniel Sancho Bronchalo on suspicion of murdering and dismembering a Colombian surgeon from Koh Phagnan island to Koh Samui Island court, southern Thailand, Monday, Aug. 7, 2023. (AP Photo/Somkeat Ruksaman, File ) Life Sentence for Spaniard in Koh Pha-ngan Murder Case A court in Thailand sentenced Daniel Sancho Bronchalo to life imprisonment on Thursday, concluding a high-profile case marked by grisly details and strong celebrity connections. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336782-life-sentence-for-spaniard-in-koh-pha-ngan-murder-case/

Life Sentence for Spaniard in Koh Pha-ngan Murder Case FILE - A Thai police officer escorts Spanish Daniel Sancho Bronchalo on suspicion of murdering and dismembering a Colombian surgeon from Koh Phagnan island to Koh Samui Island court, southern Thailand, Monday, Aug. 7, 2023. (AP Photo/Somkeat Ruksaman, File ) A court in Thailand sentenced Daniel Sancho Bronchalo to life imprisonment on Thursday, concluding a high-profile case marked by grisly details and strong celebrity connections. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336782-life-sentence-for-spaniard-in-koh-pha-ngan-murder-case/

FILE - A Thai police officer escorts Spanish Daniel Sancho Bronchalo on suspicion of murdering and dismembering a Colombian surgeon from Koh Phagnan island to Koh Samui Island court, southern Thailand, Monday, Aug. 7, 2023. (AP Photo/Somkeat Ruksaman, File ) A court in Thailand sentenced Daniel Sancho Bronchalo to life imprisonment on Thursday, concluding a high-profile case marked by grisly details and strong celebrity connections. Sancho, a 30-year-old chef and son of famed Spanish actor Rodolfo Sancho Aguirre and actress Silvia Bronchalo, was found guilty of the premeditated murder of Edwin Arrieta Arteaga, a 44-year-old Colombian plastic surgeon, while both were vacationing on the idyllic island of Koh Pha-ngan. Initially handed the death penalty, Sancho’s sentence was commuted to life in recognition of his cooperation during the trial. Police Col. Paisan Sangthep, deputy commander of the Surat Thani Provincial Police, disclosed the court's decision to The Associated Press. This ruling marks the end of a trial that has captivated audiences in Spain and across the globe, spurred by the crime’s sensational aspects and the involvement of a figure from a prominent acting family. During his trial, which took place on the island of Samui, Sancho claimed that the incident arose from a confrontation with Arrieta, who allegedly attempted to sexually assault him. According to Sancho, Arrieta fell and fatally struck his head on a bathtub during the tussle. Spanish actor Rodolfo Sancho, father of Daniel Sancho Bronchalo, talks to reporters arrives at Koh Samui provincial court in southern Thailand, Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024. A court in Thailand is expected to sentence the son of the actor accused of killing and dismembering a Colombian surgeon on a popular tourist island.(AP Photo/Thanapat Cherajin) Despite his claim of accidental death, Sancho admitted to dismembering Arrieta's body and disposing of the remains on land and at sea. For this act of concealment, he received an additional sentence of four months, reduced to two for his admission. Another two-year sentence was imposed for destroying Arrieta's passport, emphasizing the extent of his efforts to hide the crime. The disturbing case received substantial media attention in Spain, leading to the creation of an HBO Spanish-language documentary. The tragic intertwining of a violent death on a holiday island and the involvement of a celebrity’s family ensured the story remained in the public eye, creating a sobering end to what initially seemed like a dream vacation. -- 2024-08-29 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Pit bull attack in Bangkok market sparks safety concerns by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A pit bull in the Charoen Phon market in Pathum Wan district, Bangkok, caused alarm yesterday after attacking a resident. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336765-pit-bull-attack-in-bangkok-market-sparks-safety-concerns/

A pit bull in the Charoen Phon market in Pathum Wan district, Bangkok, caused alarm yesterday after attacking a resident. A resident reported being bitten by a pit bull yesterday, August 28, near the Charoen Phon market in Bangkok. The event gained significant attention after a popular Facebook page, known for highlighting community issues, posted images and comments about the incident. The post emphasised that not everyone finds certain dogs adorable, pointing out that while some owners may feel their pets are harmless, others in the community could be at risk. The incident occurred around 6.30am near the Lotus Rama 1 area, a busy spot frequented by many locals for their daily activities. The victim, who was on his way to buy groceries, had to pass through a commonly used pathway. He mentioned that he had never seen a dog in that area before. On this particular morning, he witnessed a motorcycle taxi driver narrowly escaping an attack by the same pit bull that later bit him. The victim had planned to confront the dog’s owner after completing his errands, intending to bring the matter to their attention. However, when he returned around 8am, the owner had already left for work. The dog, still roaming freely, attacked him again outside the premises. Despite the high foot traffic in the area, no measures had been taken to secure the dog. “It’s confusing how this can be allowed. The owner isn’t around, and there are so many people passing by.” The man expressed his frustration with the lack of action from the local officials, who suggested he return later in the day to address the issue, reported KhaoSod. “Why keep a dog like this in such a place? It’s a warning for everyone.” In related news, a pit bull was found abandoned in the heart of Hat Yai, dehydrated, weak, and unable to move. Rescuers discovered it infested with ticks and emaciated. Fortunately, a kind-hearted individual has already come forward to offer the dog a new home. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-29 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai YouTuber exposes substandard aircraft repairs by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A YouTube aviation content creator exposed severe negligence by aircraft mechanics, revealing they had endangered pilots’ lives by performing substandard repairs. His inspection of the aircraft and his experience uncovered a series of shocking maintenance failures. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336762-thai-youtuber-exposes-substandard-aircraft-repairs/

A YouTube aviation content creator exposed severe negligence by aircraft mechanics, revealing they had endangered pilots’ lives by performing substandard repairs. His inspection of the aircraft and his experience uncovered a series of shocking maintenance failures. Warat Laithong, who runs the YouTube channel Flown By Prame, shared his disturbing findings on social media. He purchased a Commander 114 aircraft two years ago, registered as HS-AWS, which had undergone extensive restoration over two years. During this time, the aircraft had been serviced by three different teams of mechanics. The last team of mechanics informed him yesterday that the aircraft was ready for flight tests and had received a Certificate of Airworthiness. This certification typically assures that an aeroplane is in good condition. However, during the test flight, Warat encountered several issues, the most severe being the propeller’s overspeed. The Commander 114’s propeller is designed to operate at a maximum of 2,700 RPM, but during a low pass, the RPM surged to 3,000. When Warat reported this to the mechanics, they brushed it off, saying he wanted more power. They made some adjustments, but the problem persisted. “After flying the aircraft for approximately 15 hours, my friends and I noticed that the propeller governor was incorrectly installed from the beginning. This was the root cause of the unstable RPM.” A mechanic in Bang Phra immediately identified the issue and confirmed it with the aircraft’s manual, proving the installation was indeed incorrect. Concerned about other potential hidden issues, Warat requested a thorough inspection of the entire aircraft by the Bang Phra mechanic. The results were alarming. Some of the findings included: Expired air filter foam with large holes, which was not an original part Expired fuel hoses that were brittle and cracked Expired air hoses that were torn Engine mount rubbers that had hardened to the point of being rock-solid and incapable of absorbing engine vibrations Rust on the wings Dry, neglected control cables that had not been lubricated An oil cooler that had not been flushed Three bags of bird nests were found within the airframe A screwdriver was left inside the engine compartment. “How could the mechanic who installed the governor not read the manual and make such a mistake? And how did the one who logged the 100-hour annual inspection overlook all these expired parts?” Warat suggested the only reason for not replacing the parts was a deliberate intent to cut corners, which he equated to endangering lives. The YouTuber urged all mechanics involved in the faulty repairs to come forward, admit their mistakes, and prepare for legal consequences. He emphasised that there would be no settlements or compensations, reported KhaoSod. “I know many fellow pilots have faced similar issues with unscrupulous mechanics. I urge everyone to share their experiences so the aviation community becomes aware of these dangers.” by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-29 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Expects Influx of 2 Million Korean Tourists During Chuseok Picture courtesy: Facebook/Yim Yam Hostel & Garden Thailand is gearing up for a significant influx of South Korean tourists during the upcoming six-day Chuseok holiday, hoping to hit a record high of 2 million Korean visitors by the year's end. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336756-thailand-expects-influx-of-2-million-korean-tourists-during-chuseok/

Picture courtesy: Facebook/Yim Yam Hostel & Garden Thailand is gearing up for a significant influx of South Korean tourists during the upcoming six-day Chuseok holiday, hoping to hit a record high of 2 million Korean visitors by the year's end. This surge is seen as crucial for Thailand's tourism sector, which has consistently seen South Korean tourists as a top inbound market. Chuwit Sirivejkul, regional director of marketing for East Asia at the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), revealed that from the start of 2023 until now, around 1.22 million Korean tourists have already visited Thailand. On average, daily arrivals range between 5,000 to 7,000 visitors, indicating a strong, steady flow. These visitors include independent tourists, family groups, honeymooners, golfers, and business travellers. Last year's Chuseok holiday saw 737,687 South Koreans travelling abroad, surpassing numbers from 2019, suggesting a robust travel habit among South Koreans that could benefit Thailand. Chuwit expects around 23,000 South Korean tourists to visit Thailand from September 14-17 during Chuseok, each spending an average of 40,000 to 50,000 baht (US$1,180 to 1,470). This period, though popular for domestic events and promotions, still attracts plenty of outbound travel. With flights between Thailand and South Korea fully resumed, the market is primed for further growth in the final quarter. Last year saw 1.66 million South Korean tourists compared to 1.88 million in 2019, showing potential for hitting the 2 million mark this year. Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, President of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), observed that Korean tour groups are making a comeback, albeit in smaller sizes. In response, ATTA is planning a promotional roadshow to Seoul and Kwangju next month, aiming to draw even more travellers. Promotions targeting the South Korean market are crucial, especially amid strong competition from Vietnam and Japan. By July, over 5.1 million Koreans had visited Japan, and Vietnam saw 3.6 million Korean visitors, making Koreans their largest visitor group in 2023. TAT aims to capitalise on repeat visitors and appeal to younger generations by promoting quality products and attractions, hoping to bolster Thailand’s position as a top destination for South Korean tourists. -- 2024-08-29 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Bolt driver arrested for molesting two young women in Pattaya By Pattaya Mail The women point at the car belonging to the Bolt driver who molested them after they tracked down the suspect to an apartment complex in South Pattaya. They waited for him to confront him and called the police to arrest him. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336752-bolt-driver-arrested-for-molesting-two-young-women-in-pattaya/

The women point at the car belonging to the Bolt driver who molested them after they tracked down the suspect to an apartment complex in South Pattaya. They waited for him to confront him and called the police to arrest him. PATTAYA, Thailand – In a disturbing incident that has raised serious concerns about the safety of ride-sharing services, a Bolt driver was arrested for molesting two young women on separate occasions. The suspect, identified as Seksan S, 47, was taken into custody by police from Banglamung Police Station on August 27. The first victim, a 15-year-old girl referred to as Miss Am, recounted her ordeal to the media. On August 25 around 4:30 a.m., she called a white Toyota Vios through the Bolt app. She requested a ride from Soi 17, Pattaya Second Road, to her destination in Soi Nong Ket Yai. Despite sitting in the back seat, the driver instructed her to move to the front seat. During the ride, the driver inappropriately touched her chest and genital area, ignoring her protests. Traumatized, Miss Am confided in her boyfriend, who accompanied her to file a police report at Banglamung Police Station. By Pattaya Mail Full story: PATTAYA MAIL 2024-08-29 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Horrifying Accident: Woman in Pickup Truck Fatally Strikes Harley-Davidson Rider Picture courtesy: Daily News Tragedy struck when a 24-year-old woman, in a state of shock, crashed her Toyota Revo pickup truck into a man riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle in Khlong Nueng, Pathum Thani. The motorcycle rider, a 29-year-old man, was killed instantly, and the motorcycle was completely destroyed. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336750-horrifying-accident-woman-in-pickup-truck-fatally-strikes-harley-davidson-rider/

Tragedy struck when a 24-year-old woman, in a state of shock, crashed her Toyota Revo pickup truck into a man riding a Harley-Davidson motorcycle in Khlong Nueng, Pathum Thani. The motorcycle rider, a 29-year-old man, was killed instantly, and the motorcycle was completely destroyed. On August 29, Police Lieutenant Kreangkrai Srimai, Deputy Inspector of Investigation at Khlong Luang Police Station, received a report of a fatal collision between a car and a motorcycle. The accident occurred on the road alongside Khlong L1, near the entrance of Soi Thepkunchorn 21, Village No. 11, Khlong Nueng Subdistrict, Khlong Luang District, Pathum Thani Province, reported Daily News. Upon receiving the report, the officer quickly went to the scene along with the rescue team from Thakhong Municipality and volunteers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, as well as a doctor from Thammasat University Hospital. At the scene, a white, four-door Toyota Revo pickup truck was found in the middle of the road, with its front end smashed into a black Harley-Davidson motorcycle. The front of the pickup was severely damaged, and motorcycle parts were scattered across the road. The motorcyclist, a 29-year-old man, was found deceased. The 24-year-old female driver of the pickup was still in shock. Lieutenant Kreangkrai Srimai documented the scene and collected evidence. The body of the deceased was transported to the Institute of Forensic Medicine at Thammasat University Hospital by the Ruamkatanyu Foundation volunteers, where it will remain until relatives can arrange for religious rites. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2024-08-29 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Retired officer heroically rescues mother and baby from Chao Phraya River Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a courageous act, retired maritime police officer Thawatchai Klinhom saved a distressed mother and her three-month-old baby from the Chao Phraya River. The mother, initially claiming an accidental slip, later confessed to jumping in due to severe stress over her child's developmental delays. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336749-retired-officer-heroically-rescues-mother-and-baby-from-chao-phraya-river/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod In a courageous act, retired maritime police officer Thawatchai Klinhom saved a distressed mother and her three-month-old baby from the Chao Phraya River. The mother, initially claiming an accidental slip, later confessed to jumping in due to severe stress over her child's developmental delays. The incident occurred around 7:50 pm near the Samut Prakan provincial hall embankment. Rescue teams from Samut Prakan Municipality and Ruam Kuson Foundation rushed to the scene following reports of a woman and a baby in the river. Upon their arrival, they found both mother and child safe but clearly shaken. Thawatchai Klinhom, 65, was mid-exercise when he spotted the mother, a Myanmar national, holding what he initially thought was a doll. Realising the gravity of the situation, he jumped into the river to rescue them. Despite her resistance and a near-debilitating kick to the face, Thawatchai succeeded in bringing them to safety. The mother, identified as Sukanya Sukklin, later revealed her true intentions to the rescue officer. Overwhelmed by sleepless nights worrying about her baby's slow development, she felt compelled to take drastic action. She clarified that there had been no conflict with her partner, who was searching for them, unaware of their whereabouts. Emergency responders promptly transported the mother and her baby to Samut Prakan Hospital for medical evaluation. The baby was found wrapped in a blanket to stave off the cold after being in the water, reported Khaosod. Thawatchai reflected on the chaotic rescue, emphasising the critical moment he realised the 'doll' was, in fact, a baby. "I saw the baby sink twice," he recounted. "I shouted for help because I was exhausted, but we managed to save both of them." This daring rescue highlights the bravery and quick thinking of citizens like Thawatchai, whose heroic actions undoubtedly prevented a tragic outcome. -- 2024-08-29 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Heavy rainfall warnings have been issued across various regions in Thailand, with the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) advising residents to prepare for potential flash floods and landslides. The alert, announced today, remains in effect until tomorrow. TMD has released its seventh announcement regarding heavy to very heavy rainfall in several parts of the country and strong winds in the upper Andaman Sea. The warning highlights the likelihood of increased rainfall, particularly in the northern, eastern, and western southern regions, which could result in flash floods and landslides. Residents in these areas are urged to exercise caution, especially those living near mountainous slopes, waterways, and low-lying areas. The heavy rainfall is attributed to the monsoonal trough moving across the northern, northeastern, and upper central regions of Thailand, combined with a rather strong southwesterly monsoon prevailing over the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. The provinces expected to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall include: Northern region: Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Lampang, Phayao, Phrae, Nan, Uttaradit, Tak, Sukhothai, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun. Northeastern region: Loei, Nong Khai, Nong Bua Lam Phu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Surin, Si Sa Ket, and Ubon Ratchathani. Central region: Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Lopburi, Saraburi, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Songkhram, and Samut Sakhon, including Bangkok and its surrounding areas. Eastern region: Nakhon Nayok, Prachinburi, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Southern region: Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun. In addition to the rainfall warnings, the upper Andaman Sea is expected to experience strong winds, with wave heights reaching 2 to 3 metres and over 3 metres in areas with thunderstorms. The upper Gulf of Thailand will see waves around 2 metres high, while the lower Andaman Sea will have waves ranging from 1 to 2 metres, exceeding 2 metres in areas with thunderstorms. Mariners in these regions are advised to exercise caution and avoid sailing in stormy conditions. Small boats in the upper Andaman Sea should remain ashore during this period, reported KhaoSod. “Residents should stay updated with announcements from the Meteorological Department,” the department urged. “Information is available on our website or by calling 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182, which is operational 24 hours a day.” by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Nikolas Behrendt, Unsplash Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-29 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Transgender Woman Arrested for Filming Teenagers in Secret and Selling Clips Picture credit: Khaosod A transgender woman was arrested in Bangkok for allegedly deceiving teenage boys through a dating app, secretly filming their encounters, and distributing the clips online in exchange for money. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336746-transgender-woman-arrested-for-filming-teenagers-in-secret-and-selling-clips/

Picture credit: Khaosod A transgender woman was arrested in Bangkok for allegedly deceiving teenage boys through a dating app, secretly filming their encounters, and distributing the clips online in exchange for money. On the 28th of August, 2024, Pol. Col. Sarut Khaewsopa, Commander of the Anti-Human Trafficking Division, directed Pol. Col. Phattanapong Siphinpho and Pol. Lt. Col. Narongwet Jiwadet to apprehend Mr. Suphassara, aged 27. The arrest, ordered on charges related to the production and distribution of obscene material, took place at the Criminal Court. Evidence including two mobile phones, a phone stand with a light, and 20 unused condoms were seized from a mansion on Suk Sawat Road in Bangkok. Investigations revealed that Suphassara, a transgender woman, had been distributing obscene media on platforms such as Twitter and OnlyFans, accessible to the general public. She also managed a Line group where members had to pay 1,000 baht to view explicit clips involving teenage boys and transgender women. The easier access Twitter group required a payment of 599 baht, reported Khaosod. Officers joined the secret group as part of their investigation and discovered multiple clips featuring Suphassara and over a hundred different male teenagers. These clips included both Thai and foreign teenagers, all of whom were unknowingly filmed. It was estimated that Suphassara generated substantial monthly income from this operation before her arrest. Suphassara confessed to the charges, explaining that she lacked a permanent job and thus, resorted to setting up these secret groups on Twitter, OnlyFans, and Line. Using the Tinder app, she lured young men into sexual encounters, during which she secretly recorded them. These recordings were then shared in the paid members-only groups. Currently, Suphassara is held by the officers of Sub-Division 2, Anti-Human Trafficking Division, as legal proceedings continue against her. -- 2024-08-29 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Calls for Extension of Digital TV Licenses Past 2029 to Support Industry The Association of Digital Television Broadcasting (ADTEB) is urging the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) to extend digital TV licences past their 2029 expiration. This request aims to help the struggling digital TV sector navigate the rapidly changing media landscape. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336745-calls-for-extension-of-digital-tv-licenses-past-2029-to-support-industry/

Picture credit: Wikipedia The Association of Digital Television Broadcasting (ADTEB) is urging the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) to extend digital TV licences past their 2029 expiration. This request aims to help the struggling digital TV sector navigate the rapidly changing media landscape. At the One Decade of Digital TV event, ADTEB president Suphap Kleekajai stressed the importance of a timely decision, highlighting that the industry needs a stable environment for long-term planning. With viewing habits shifting towards online streaming, digital TV operators must adapt or face possible closures. Suphap also voiced concerns over the NBTC’s plan to auction the 3500-3800 megahertz spectrum for telecom services, critical for satellite TV, through which 60% of Thais access digital TV. “We need to see an extension of the terms for digital TV licenses, or even an alternative way of allocating new licences, such as a beauty contest,” remarked Suphap. Unlike digital TV channels, over-the-top platforms (like Netflix and YouTube) remain unregulated, adding to the competitive pressure. ADTEB management intends to meet formally with the NBTC to discuss the extension. The association hopes to persuade the government to amend the NBTC Act, which currently mandates spectrum allocation exclusively through auctions. Dr Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck, NBTC chairman, acknowledged the need for possibly revising the auction plan but noted the commission's limitations in issuing direct orders to the government. Following discussions with ADTEB, any resolutions would be presented to the government for further consideration. Suphap recalled the financial strains the digital TV sector has faced since the NBTC's 2013 auction of 24 digital TV licenses, which fetched 50 billion baht (US$1.5 billion). Several operators have since ceased operations due to these high costs. Chulalongkorn University suggests the combined digital TV licences should have fetched a more reasonable 13 billion baht (US$382 million). This significant discrepancy underscores the financial difficulties operators face in an ever-evolving digital landscape. Despite NBTC’s must-carry rule, which mandates free TV be broadcast on any platform, advertising spending on digital TV has declined. As digital TV operators brace for the future, this call for licence extensions becomes even more critical, ensuring they can continue to provide varied and accessible content to viewers across the country. -- 2024-08-29 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Police Offer ฿100,000 Reward for Information on Thung Song Gold Heist Credit to: Komchadluek Police are intensifying efforts to capture the suspect involved in a recent gold heist at a Thung Song shopping mall. Authorities have gathered around 70% of the evidence pointing to the suspect's identity and have announced a 100,000 baht reward for information leading to his arrest. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336744-police-offer-฿100000-reward-for-information-on-thung-song-gold-heist/

Credit to: Komchadluek Police are intensifying efforts to capture the suspect involved in a recent gold heist at a Thung Song shopping mall. Authorities have gathered around 70% of the evidence pointing to the suspect's identity and have announced a 100,000 baht reward for information leading to his arrest. The incident unfolded when a man, disguised in clothing that completely concealed his face, brandished a firearm and robbed the Yaowarat Bangkok gold shop inside a prominent retail mall in Thung Song, Nakhon Si Thammarat province. The thief made off with gold jewellery weighing a total of 58 baht and placed a fake bomb on a glass display case to deter pursuit. On August 24, the dramatic heist sparked a swift response from local law enforcement. Yesterday, August 28, Deputy Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 8, Saranyu Chamnanrach, convened a meeting at Thung Song Police Station with Teerawut Thepluen, the Superintendent of Thung Song Police, and the investigative team to review the progress of the case. Earlier, police executed a search warrant at a suspect's residence but found no illegal items. The suspect was brought in for questioning and subsequently released. According to a gold shop employee, the suspect approached the store while the staff were alerted and looking for security personnel. Before reaching the shop, the suspect placed the fake bomb on the glass display case, grabbed the gold jewellery, and fled. Teerawut Thepluen stated, “Our investigation has yielded approximately 70% of the evidence that strongly suggests the identity of the suspect, though we cannot disclose further details at this time. The case has progressed significantly, and we urge the public to provide any information that can assist in the arrest. A reward of 100,000 baht is offered for tips leading to the capture, and all information will be kept confidential.” Police hope that the reward will encourage anyone with knowledge of the crime or the suspect's whereabouts to come forward. This heist has shocked the local community and ignited urgent efforts to ensure justice is served. -- 2024-08-29 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 29 August 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336741-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-29-august-2024/

Rescuers in Nakhon Ratchasima working through the rubble of a collapsed train tunnel say they got within about one meter of one of the three trapped workers last night. Earlier rain forced a temporary halt, but efforts continued to clear large rocks blocking the way. The rescue tunnel was reinforced as they progressed, and a scanner indicated that the trapped workers were likely still alive. The workers have been trapped since the tunnel collapsed on Saturday night. Authorities have submitted a 20,000-page case involving 31 suspects, including police accused of attempting to extort 140 million baht from six online gambling suspects, to prosecutors. The Corruption Litigation Office will decide on whether to press criminal charges. The case began after the six gambling suspects filed complaints against the investigation team. officials at the Suvarnabhumi Airport examined an express cargo export declaration, destined for Australia, and discovered…methamphetamine and ketamine worth almost 15 million baht.. The document declared the assignment as a “Digital Ultrasonic Cleaner” weighing 21 kilograms. X-ray imaging followed by an inspection revealed the drugs. The British Embassy in Bangkok has issued a warning against attempting to smuggle cannabis into the UK, following a rise in the number of arrests of air passengers arriving from Thailand, Canada and the US. British authorities have arrested 378 air passengers, and an estimated 15 tonnes of the drug has been detected and seized at UK airports so far this year. The amount is around three times higher than in 2023. Around the region Malaysia's civil aviation regulator has cut the duration of Malaysia Airlines' air operator certificate to one year from three years, following a probe into technical issues faced by the state carrier, An investigation into Malaysia Airlines that found several safety and maintenance issues including a shortage of skilled workers and mechanical components. Japan Typhoon Shanshan, crossed southern japan overnight bringing torrential rain and dangerous sea conditions, earlier authorities urged those in the storm's path to evacuate while it was still safe to do so. Airlines and rail operators cancelled several services for the coming days Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Thundershowers 31C degrees celsius Bangkok: Thunder showers 31 Pattaya: thundershowers 30 Phuket and the south: Cloudy 30 Hua Hin: Bright but cloudy isolated rain showers 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 2024-08-29 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe