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Picture courtesy: The Standard Thousands of foreigners are stranded at the Thai-Myanmar border after a crackdown on scam centres operated by criminal gangs. This joint operation by authorities from China, Thailand, and Myanmar targeted illegal online operations, where victims were forced into online scams in unsanitary and often harrowing conditions. Over recent weeks, efforts have increased to dismantle these centres along the border. Such operations are part of a wider criminal network across Southeast Asia. According to the United Nations, these scams have trafficked hundreds of thousands of individuals, exploiting their vulnerabilities. In a recent raid, Thai and Cambodian police freed over 200 individuals from these illegal buildings. However, difficulties remain as thousands continue to be held by Myanmar’s armed groups. Currently, the Karen National Army (KNA) and the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) are holding approximately 7,000 former scam workers. The authorities struggle to transfer them into Thailand due to complexities surrounding legal and diplomatic processes. Another armed group, the Karen Border Guard Force, has detained about 6,500 foreigners following a crackdown on scam centres in Shwe Kokko and the Chinese-managed KK Park. Though they managed to deport 621 Chinese nationals, they have urged the Thai government to coordinate repatriation efforts for others. Aid workers describe these people as being 'in limbo,' facing deteriorating conditions while awaiting rescue or repatriation. The prolonged waiting, they argue, constitutes further victimisation of already exploited individuals. Despite calls for action, Thailand’s deputy prime minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, expressed that Thailand lacks the capacity to accommodate more displaced victims. This month, the country managed to take in 260 individuals, with the majority coming from countries lacking a direct diplomatic presence in Thailand, such as Ethiopia. While Thailand facilitated flights for Chinese nationals, diplomatic coordination remains key in managing the crisis. Neighbouring countries and international partners are urged to step up and collaborate closely. Public interest was piqued by the rescue of Chinese actor Wang Xing, who was lured to Myanmar under false job promises and subsequently trapped in a scam centre. This case highlighted the growing issue, leading Southeast Asian countries to increase pressure on these illegal operations. Efforts are ongoing, including cutting utilities to areas known for such activities. During the crackdown, financial losses suffered by victims in Thailand hit approximately 80 billion Thai Baht, according to police reports. This massive figure underscores the pressing need for international cooperation in addressing these transnational crimes, ensuring victims' safe return, and preventing future trafficking, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-25

Thousands of Foreigners Trapped at Thai-Myanmar Border After Scam Busts Picture courtesy: The Standard Thousands of foreigners are stranded at the Thai-Myanmar border after a crackdown on scam centres operated by criminal gangs. This joint operation by authorities from China, Thailand, and Myanmar targeted illegal online operations, where victims were forced into online scams in unsanitary and often harrowing conditions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352776-thousands-of-foreigners trapped-at-thai-myanmar-border-after-scam-busts/

Thailand's Auto Output Drops 24.63% as Domestic Sales Falter Picture courtesy: Thailand Business News Thailand, a key player in Southeast Asia's automotive industry, has seen a sharp decline in car production, with a notable drop of 24.63% in January compared to the same period last year. The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) revealed today that production numbers plummeted to 107,103 units in January, primarily due to weakening domestic sales and falling exports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352775-thailands-auto-output-drops-2463-as-domestic-sales-falter/

Pai's Tourism Woes: Over 1,600 Foreigners Arrested in a Year Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post In 2022, Pai district in Mae Hong Son saw the arrest of over 1,600 foreigners mostly for traffic and immigration violations. Among those detained, 13 were Israeli visitors for immigration infractions, according to local police reports. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352753-pais-tourism-woes-over-1600-foreigners-arrested-in-a-year/x

Bangkok Police Facebook Page Hacked with Explicit Content Picture courtesy of The Daily News In an unexpected twist, the Bangkok Noi Metropolitan Police Station's Facebook page became the backdrop for a cybersecurity scandal this morning, showcasing explicit pornographic content instead of its usual updates. Followers were taken by surprise when the page, boasting over 2,000 followers, displayed around 18 indecent images and videos, marking a sharp deviation from its routine posts. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352742-bangkok-polic

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 25 February 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1352746-thailand-live-tuesday-25-february-2025/

ASEAN NOW picture for reference only Thailand’s dream of welcoming nine million Chinese tourists this year is in serious trouble! The shocking kidnapping of Chinese actor Wang Xing—who was trafficked through Thailand to Myanmar—has sent shockwaves through the travel industry. Fear is spreading fast! Thousands of Chinese tourists are cancelling flights, ditching Thailand for safer destinations like Japan and Singapore. In January alone, flight cancellations to Thailand skyrocketed 94%, leaving airlines scrambling. Japan is the big winner! Chinese visitors flocked to Japan’s snowy slopes and hot springs, making it the top choice for Lunar New Year. The numbers don’t lie—980,000 Chinese tourists landed in Japan in January, doubling last year’s figures. Meanwhile, Thailand managed just 711,000 visitors in the same period. Thai authorities are in damage control mode! They’ve cracked down on scam gangs and cybercrime rings, teaming up with Myanmar to clean up their act. But experts say the damage is done—bad press is overshadowing Thailand’s safety efforts. The tourism sector is critical to Thailand’s economy, pumping in THB 2 trillion ($55 billion) a year. But if safety fears persist, Chinese arrivals could plunge to just 7.5 million, hitting the economy hard. Is there hope? Maybe. Flight bookings remain down for March but show signs of recovery in April and May. To win back tourists, Thailand must go beyond Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai—showcasing hidden gems to lure visitors back. As tourism expert Thienprasit Chaiyapatranun warns, Thailand must act fast or risk losing its tourism crown for good! As reported by Bangkok Post -- 2025-02-25

Chinese Tourists Ditch Thailand! - Kidnap scandal sparks mass flight cancellations. ASEAN NOW picture for reference only Thailand's aspiration to lure nine million Chinese tourists this year faces a significant hurdle. Recent events, particularly the kidnapping of Chinese actor Wang Xing, have led to a surge in concerns about safety among potential Chinese visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352744-chinese-tourists-ditch-thailand-kidnap-scandal-sparks-mass-flight-cancellations/

New Coronavirus Raises Concerns, But No Immediate Threat Dr. Opas. File photo In recent days, reports have emerged from China regarding a novel virus within the coronavirus family, dubbed HKU5-CoV-2, found by researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Though capable of infiltrating human cells similar to the infamous SARS-CoV-2, no human cases have been recorded to date, according to Dr Opas Karnkawinpong, Thailand's permanent secretary of the Ministry of Public Health. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352718-new-coronavirus-raises-concerns-but-no-immediate-threat/

Dr. Opas. File photo In recent days, reports have emerged from China regarding a novel virus within the coronavirus family, dubbed HKU5-CoV-2, found by researchers at the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Though capable of infiltrating human cells similar to the infamous SARS-CoV-2, no human cases have been recorded to date, according to Dr Opas Karnkawinpong, Thailand's permanent secretary of the Ministry of Public Health. The discovery, occurring within the lab rather than the wild, might alarm many who remember the initial reports of COVID-19 from Wuhan in late 2019. However, Dr Opas assures the public that the virus is currently not a cause for concern. HKU5-CoV-2 is categorised as part of the Merbecovirus subgenus, making it a relative, yet distinct, from the currently circulating strains such as the Omicron variant prevalent in Thailand. Dr Opas emphasized that Thailand is part of a robust international network monitoring infectious diseases. This network keeps a close watch on any emerging virus strains, ensuring readiness to act against potential threats. Despite the discovery, the protocol remains unchanged: maintain personal hygiene by frequent handwashing with soap, wearing masks if symptomatic, and avoiding crowded spaces. While this newly identified virus raises the spectre of coronaviruses' notorious ability to mutate, there's no evidence indicating a present risk to humans. Dr Opas explains that viruses, particularly coronaviruses, are studied for potential mutations that might necessitate vaccine development. Even so, the transfer of viruses from bats to humans is considered a low to moderate risk, largely because such viruses exist in minimal quantities within their natural bat hosts. Dr Opas also underlines the importance of the continued exploration of viral strains, notably in bats, to preempt possible outbreaks. He assures citizens that the likelihood of a direct bat-to-human infection is slender due to limited human-bat interaction. Typically, intermediaries are needed for such transmissions, diminishing the immediate risk. As researchers globally continue to study and monitor developments, precaution remains the best strategy. The Ministry's message is clear: stay informed, stay cautious, but don't panic. With Thailand's vigilant health infrastructure, the public remains well-protected against significant health threats, including any potential new coronavirus outbreaks, reporded Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-24

American Woman Arrested with 4kg of Ice at Phuket Airport Bound for Singapore Picture courtesy: Facebook Khaosod Authorities at Phuket International Airport apprehended an American woman attempting to smuggle 4 kilograms of the drug “ice” (methamphetamine) en route to South Korea via Singapore. She is now facing legal action. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352714-american-woman-arrested-with-4kg-of-ice-at-phuket-airport-bound-for-singapore/

Picture courtesy: Facebook Khaosod Authorities at Phuket International Airport apprehended an American woman attempting to smuggle 4 kilograms of the drug “ice” (methamphetamine) en route to South Korea via Singapore. She is now facing legal action. On the 23rd of February, police received a report from a customs official about an overweight baggage issue at the international terminal of Phuket Airport. This prompted an investigation, revealing a potential drug smuggling operation on Scoot Airlines flight TR653, heading first to Singapore before reaching its final destination in South Korea. At approximately 8:30 p.m., authorities identified a suspicious passenger named Melba. She was flagged for potential drug smuggling as she checked in her luggage. Upon inspection, her suitcase contained clothing, along with four sets of bed sheets that appeared unusually heavy. A detailed search of the bed sheets uncovered methamphetamine concealed inside brown-taped, carbon paper-wrapped, clear plastic packages weighing a total of 4,300 grams. The authorities promptly charged her with attempting to export illicit narcotics without permission and possessing methamphetamine illegally. She has been handed over to the police for further legal proceedings, reported Khaosod. -- 2025-02-24

Public Indecency in Park: Police Halt 'Gathering' of 6 Men Photo via Facebook/ อีซ้อขยี้ข่าว : อีซ้อ In a rather unexpected turn of events, police in Bangkok's Bang Khen district disrupted an unusual gathering last week, catching six men in a public park indulging in a group activity that was anything but conventional. The occurrence took place at a well-known local park on Thursday, 20th February, unfolding into an intriguing scenario that quickly caught public attention. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352711-public-indecency-in-park-police-halt-gathering-of-6-men/

Photo via Facebook/ อีซ้อขยี้ข่าว : อีซ้อ In a rather unexpected turn of events, police in Bangkok's Bang Khen district disrupted an unusual gathering last week, catching six men in a public park indulging in a group activity that was anything but conventional. The occurrence took place at a well-known local park on Thursday, 20th February, unfolding into an intriguing scenario that quickly caught public attention. The episode was unveiled to the wider public through video evidence shared by Esor News, showing the men making a hasty retreat as officers approached, whistles blowing loudly. Armed with torches, the police discovered the group positioned near a large concrete pillar, illuminating what was an unwelcome display of public indecency. Ethical restraints required that visual footage of the incident be blurred for obvious reasons. What might be seen as a scandalous escapade sparked an amusing flurry of remarks on social media among Thai netizens. A range of playful comments ensued, with some jesting about the officers' interruption of the men's rather unorthodox notion of a 'happy moment.' “It's a sin for you officers! You are interrupting people's happiness,” one user quipped, while another remarked on their rather conspicuous preference for outdoor locations over hotels. More earnest voices added to the discourse, expressing the view that such activities should be confined to private quarters rather than public spaces, citing simple decency and respect for community standards. Others pointed out that this wasn't an isolated phenomenon, with similar gatherings reported at other public venues across Thailand. Despite the breach of public decorum, no legal actions ensued. As noted under Section 388 of Thailand's Criminal Law, individuals found displaying public indecency could face fines up to 5,000 Thai Baht. Nonetheless, the officers opted not to pursue the group further, allowing the moment's awkwardness to dissipate into the night's silence. The scene wraps up as a reflection on societal spaces and their unexpected uses, coupled with a gentle reminder that while parks offer many enjoyable pastimes, there's wisdom in keeping pleasure within societal norms. As the community reflects on these occurrences, balancing the vibrant pulse of city life with harmonious public behaviour remains essential, to ensure environments that everyone can enjoy respectfully, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-24

Clampdown on Parking: Pattaya Enforces Strict Odd-Even Rule File photo courtesy: Facebook Pattaya officials are stepping up their efforts to curb traffic congestion and reclaim pedestrian walkways by strictly enforcing the odd-even parking rule on South Pattaya Road. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352709-clampdown-on-parking-pattaya-enforces-strict-odd-even-rule/

File photo courtesy: Facebook Pattaya officials are stepping up their efforts to curb traffic congestion and reclaim pedestrian walkways by strictly enforcing the odd-even parking rule on South Pattaya Road. From 3rd February onwards, parking on this busy 850-metre stretch—spanning from Pattaya Third Road's Communications Intersection to the Wat Chaimongkol Intersection—is restricted on alternating odd and even dates, between 11:00 AM and 11:00 PM. To ensure compliance with these regulations, the city has stationed 12 officers per shift to oversee this bustling area. Drivers caught flouting the rules will face immediate consequences, including fines and wheel clamping. Despite these rules, some tourists and locals seem unaware of the system, primarily due to insufficient English signage. A foreign visitor expressed frustration, remarking, "I don't see English signs!" The lack of clearly visible or multilingual signs has led to misunderstandings, with many drivers parking illegally, unaware of the regulations. Authorities have been employing wheel clamps and issuing fines in their efforts to deter unauthorised parking. The fines are set to help encourage a more structured order on the roads and lessen congestion. Offenders must remember that getting your car unclamped can be a costly affair, with fines reaching up to 2,000 Thai Baht. To tackle this issue, authorities are advising visitors and residents to consider alternative parking solutions. Options include public car parks, designated beachside zones, and park-and-ride services, which are all initiatives aimed at easing the traffic woes while helping preserve the walkways for pedestrian use. City officials stress the importance of abiding by local traffic laws and parking regulations, not only to avoid penalties but more importantly, to contribute to the collective well-being of the community. They urge both residents and tourists to cooperate by parking responsibly and adhering to the odd-even rule. For those sceptical of the system’s efficacy, it’s worth noting that organised parking not only prevents gridlocks but also makes for a safer and more pleasant experience on Pattaya’s roads. The city hopes that through collective obedience and understanding, it can pave the way toward a smoother, more efficient flow of traffic, benefitting all road users and maintaining easy access for pedestrians, reported Pattaya Mail. -- 2025-02-24

Chonburi Overrun with Thieves! Cat Burglar Steals Businesswoman's Gate Twice Picture courtesy: Daily News A brazen gang of burglars has targeted a Chonburi businesswoman's home twice, stealing over 500,000 baht worth of items, including the stainless-steel front gate. Locals complain about the rampant crime, likening it to being as common as mosquitoes. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352704-chonburi-overrun-with-thieves-cat-burglar-steals-businesswomans-gate-twice/

Picture courtesy: Daily News A brazen gang of burglars has targeted a Chonburi businesswoman's home twice, stealing over 500,000 baht worth of items, including the stainless-steel front gate. Locals complain about the rampant crime, likening it to being as common as mosquitoes. On 24th February, Deputy Inspector Ongart Thumsud from Nong Prue Police Station received a report of theft at a property in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung District. Upon arrival, officers found the site, a nearly 300-square-wah, two-storey house under renovation, missing its large stainless-steel front gate. Windows had been smashed, and electrical wiring throughout the house was stripped. Owner Ms. Silarat Cha-um, a businesswoman from Si Racha, recounted that she purchased the house as a holiday home. During a recent visit with her husband, she discovered the gate wide open and the padlock cut. In addition to the front gate, thieves made off with sliding stainless-steel doors, over 20 stainless-steel railing bars, aluminium sliding windows, and electrical wires. This wasn't the first incident. Shortly after acquiring the property last year, perpetrators had already stripped the house of electrical wiring and appliances, with damages from both cases totalling over 500,000 baht. Ms. Silarat has urged police to patrol vulnerable areas more vigilantly, as the neighbourhood suffers frequent thefts with little success in catching the culprits. CCTV from a neighbouring house revealed two individuals loading the stolen gate into a green pick-up truck on the afternoon of 22nd February, brazenly disregarding the law in broad daylight. Investigations are underway to apprehend those involved. Residents of Nong Prue have voiced concerns to the national police, highlighting that Nong Prue Police Station covers an area of 124.5 square kilometres with only 83 officers. In contrast, the Pattaya City Police Station and Bang Lamung Police Station, with far fewer responsibilities, are staffed with approximately 400 and 200 officers, respectively. They hope for improved security measures to address the high crime rate in their area, reported Daily News. -- 2025-02-24

Couple Realises Gold Necklace is Fake One Year After Purchase A couple in Nonthaburi was left stunned after discovering their gold necklace, weighing two baht and purchased from a well-known mall, was fake. This revelation came a year after buying the jewellery when they attempted to clean it, only to find it peeling. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352703-couple-realises-gold-necklace-is-fake-one-year-after-purchase/

A couple in Nonthaburi was left stunned after discovering their gold necklace, weighing two baht and purchased from a well-known mall, was fake. This revelation came a year after buying the jewellery when they attempted to clean it, only to find it peeling. On 23rd February, at the Rattanathibet Police Station, 66-year-old Mr. Rungroj and his 54-year-old wife, Ms. La-ong, reported the issue to authorities. They recounted purchasing the necklace for 69,900 baht from a gold shop in a popular Rattanathibet shopping mall in late 2023, complete with a receipt issued in the usual manner. Recently, Mr. Rungroj noticed the necklace had started to tarnish. Attempting to clean it with dishwashing liquid, he was shocked to find it peeling and revealing discoloured spots. Alarmed and dissatisfied, the couple sought police assistance with the receipt and necklace in hand. However, law enforcement advised them to first contact the shop for clarification. The shop in question is currently based in a mall undergoing renovations, rendering immediate contact impossible and leaving the couple anxious and distressed. They are now calling for justice in this matter, reported Daily News. -- 2025-02-24

Hungarian Man Arrested in Krabi Raid for Working Without a Permit Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In a recent raid on Railay Beach, Krabi, immigration officers arrested a Hungarian national working without a permit. The operation, conducted in collaboration with local and tourist police, targeted business establishments for illegal activities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352701-hungarian-man-arrested-in-krabi-raid-for-working-without-a-permit/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath In a recent raid on Railay Beach, Krabi, immigration officers arrested a Hungarian national working without a permit. The operation, conducted in collaboration with local and tourist police, targeted business establishments for illegal activities. While inspecting the area, authorities discovered the Hungarian man employed at a local company, lacking the necessary work documentation. He admitted to working without a permit and was subsequently detained for violating labour laws in Thailand. Although six Thai nationals were also apprehended for drug-related offences, the focus of the operation highlighted the importance of legal compliance for foreign workers in the popular tourist region. Brigadier General Songprod Sirisukha emphasised the ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and legality of operations in Krabi. Authorities urge the public to report any unlawful activities to the Krabi Immigration Office at 075 611097. -- 2025-02-24

The White Lotus Effect: Is Luxury Tourism on a Hazardous Course? File photo for reference only OPINION As "The White Lotus" skyrockets to fame, a worrying trend emerges. Media outlets that once cautioned against overtourism now chase after its allure, similar to eager puppies pursuing a ball. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352699-the-white-lotus-effect-is-luxury-tourism-on-a-hazardous-course/

File photo for reference only OPINION As "The White Lotus" skyrockets to fame, a worrying trend emerges. Media outlets that once cautioned against overtourism now chase after its allure, similar to eager puppies pursuing a ball. The collaboration between the Four Seasons chain and the popular television series exemplifies shrewd marketing, drawing mainstream attention while maintaining an air of exclusivity. The impact was undeniable, with the Four Seasons in Maui seeing a massive spike in online interest following the first season. However, there’s a darker side to this media frenzy. The focus has shifted to the tropical paradise of Koh Samui, a Thai island besieged with infrastructure challenges like water shortages and waste management woes. While local residents average 150 litres of water a day, luxury resort guests consume ten times that amount. The spotlight on Koh Samui could lead to an unsustainable influx of visitors, placing an even greater strain on its delicate ecosystem. Major publications, from The New York Times to online travel sites, amplify this trend with giddy reviews, yet they gloss over the consequences. The journalism spotlighting indulgent "White Lotus" experiences risks overshadowing serious sustainability issues. Similar stories of caution are seen in Bali, overrun by ocean waste and cultural erosion, and in Santorini, forced to curb visitor numbers due to sheer pressure on its facilities. These cases remind us of the potential pitfalls when marketing strategies outpace responsible tourism. The glaring imbalance is apparent—articles exploring The White Lotus' enchanting locales outstrip those addressing the real-world challenges these regions face threefold. While the series enjoys heightened fame, Koh Samui stands on the brink of paying a significant price. This isn't merely about infrastructure and environment; it's about the future of luxury travel. We must decide whether to continue our voracious consumption until destinations are irreparably damaged, or pivot toward models championing responsible engagement and preservation. The coming years demand a re-evaluation of how luxurious tourism is promoted and how its impacts are managed. How can we harmonise promotion and preservation of a destination? What part should luxury brands play in enhancing local infrastructure? At what point does exclusivity serve environmental protection rather than just profit? Without tackling these essential issues candidly, more "undiscovered paradises" will succumb to the ravages of overtourism. The undeniable influence of pop culture and streaming services in shaping travel aspirations must now be wielded to enhance traveler awareness and consciousness, reported Skift. -- 2025-02-24

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a significant gesture, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has publicly apologised for the Tak Bai incident, expressing regret for the tragic events during his tenure. The announcement came as Thaksin visited Narathiwat, part of a diplomatic mission to the southern provinces alongside Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The context of his apology dates back to a deeply unfortunate event on October 25, 2004, known as the Tak Bai incident, where 85 Thai citizens perished. The incident occurred during a demonstration at a police station in Tak Bai, with the protest escalating to a violent confrontation resulting in several deaths. Nearly 1,300 protesters were detained and transported under inhumane conditions, with 78 dying from suffocation during transport. Speaking at a press conference at Samphan Witthaya School, Thaksin offered his apologies specifically to religious leaders and local Muslim communities. He acknowledged past missteps and expressed a desire for collective efforts to address lingering discontent, stating, "If there was anything wrong that causes dissatisfaction, I apologise and ask everyone to help solve the problem together." This visit, focusing on security, religious, and educational development, comes amid tensions highlighted by a car bomb at Narathiwat Airport. The explosive device was attached to an officer’s pickup truck, detonating shortly before Thaksin's arrival. The former prime minister, however, downplayed the incident as symbolic and noted his resilience, claiming he had survived four previous assassination attempts. “I am still indifferent, it’s okay I am not afraid of this. Whoever welcomes me in whatever way, I accept them all,” he remarked. Images of the car bomb and related warnings were circulated online by the "Southern Border Comrades" webpage, advising caution in the area. Despite the tension, Thaksin’s visit proceeded with parliamentary and local leaders, including Narathiwat Governor Trakul Thotham and members of the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Centre, extending their welcome. The dual focus of Thaksin's visit—seeking reconciliation over past grievances while navigating the complexities of present security threats—emphasises ongoing challenges in Thailand's southern regions. The visit underlines a broader initiative to foster dialogue and development, aiming to move beyond historical grievances and strengthen regional stability, reported ThaiNewsroom. -- 2025-02-24