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Belgian man scammed out of 8 million baht by female Thai soldier by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เจาะลึกทั่วไทย Inside Thailand A Belgian man lost 2 million baht and his condominium room in Pattaya, worth 6 million baht, to a female Thai soldier who posed as a real estate agent. The suspect’s relative claimed the Belgian man and the soldier were previously in a relationship. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348761-belgian-man-scammed-out-of-8-million-baht-by-female-thai-soldier/

Photo via Facebook/ เจาะลึกทั่วไทย Inside Thailand by Petch Petpailin A Belgian man lost 2 million baht and his condominium room in Pattaya, worth 6 million baht, to a female Thai soldier who posed as a real estate agent. The suspect’s relative claimed the Belgian man and the soldier were previously in a relationship. The 55 year old Belgian policeman, Ronald, and his Thai wife sought assistance from the non-profit organisation Saimai Survive after the financial loss. Ronald’s wife explained that her husband owned a condominium in Pattaya and was looking to rent it out. While searching for an agent online, he came across the suspect, 42 year old Som. Som’s social media profile picture showed her in a soldier‘s uniform. She introduced herself to Ronald as a Lieutenant Colonel in the military who worked part-time as a real estate agent. Ronald, having read positive reviews from Som’s previous clients, found her trustworthy and arranged an in-person meeting to discuss renting out the condo room. Som successfully found a tenant for the Belgian man, collected the rental fees, and transferred the payments to Ronald as agreed. Subsequently, Som informed Ronald that the tenant no longer wished to rent the property but was interested in buying it. She assured him that the tenant was willing to buy the condo for 6 million baht, significantly higher than the 4.4 million baht Ronald had originally paid. Trusting her, Ronald agreed to sell the condominium. Before finalising the sale, Som persuaded Ronald to purchase another condominium for 2 million baht, claiming that it was in a prime location and would yield substantial profits. Ronald decided to proceed with the purchase. Female thai soldier allegedly poses as real estate agent to scame Belgian man Photo via Facebook/ เจาะลึกทั่วไทย Inside Thailand Past romance Som presented Ronald with documents related to the sale of his condominium and asked him to sign them, assuring him that the 6 million baht payment would soon be transferred to his account. She also handed him a title deed for the new 2 million baht condominium and requested the payment. However, after signing the documents as advised by Som and paying for the new condo room, Ronald discovered that he had been scammed. He unknowingly transferred ownership of his condo to someone else without receiving any payment. Furthermore, the title deed for the 2 million baht condominium was found to be counterfeit. Photo via Kao Jor Luek As a result, Ronald lost both his condominium and 2 million baht in cash. He and his wife filed a complaint against Som but she reportedly remained unfazed by the allegations, boasting of her connections with influential police officers in Pattaya. Channel 7 reporters visited Som’s residence in the northeastern province of Buriram but she was not present. Her relative claimed that Ronald was Som’s ex-boyfriend. Photo via Facebook/ เจาะลึกทั่วไทย Inside Thailand The two had been in a relationship for over 10 years before breaking up due to unspecified issues. The relative speculated that Ronald might be seeking revenge, as Som had recently married a police officer in Pattaya. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-14

Fresh Details Emerge in Irish Diver’s Mysterious Demise on Death Island by Bob Scott Fresh details have emerged about the untimely death of Irish diver Robert “Robby” Kinlan, who was discovered lifeless in his room at the Baan Tao Bungalo Resort on Thailand’s infamous Koh Tao Island, also known for its chilling moniker, Death Island. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348760-fresh-details-emerge-in-irish-diver’s-mysterious-demise-on-death-island/

by Bob Scott Fresh details have emerged about the untimely death of Irish diver Robert “Robby” Kinlan, who was discovered lifeless in his room at the Baan Tao Bungalo Resort on Thailand’s infamous Koh Tao Island, also known for its chilling moniker, Death Island. Local Thai police revealed that the young diver, found around 11am on Thursday, January 9, is believed to have succumbed to acute heart failure. The 21 year old’s lifeless body was discovered by a friend, in the unsettling presence of his mobile phone, which was still connected to a wall socket. “The death seems to be acute heart failure,” said Lieutenant Colonel Theeraphat Sanjai. Due to turbulent waves, an autopsy is yet to be conducted, as local officials await safe passage to Surat Thani Hospital for confirmation of the young man’s cause of death. Robby’s long-time friend said he’d known him for around five to six years and was clueless about any pre-existing medical conditions that might have led to this tragedy. The room, locked from the inside and showing no signs of forced entry or foul play, bore only the solemn stillness of an untimely end. “There were no alcoholic beverages found in his room,” Lt. Col. Theeraphat said. “I did not smell alcohol, just a musty odour.” The room’s scene has been reported to the Irish Embassy in Bangkok, while Robby’s stunned family awaits answers and closure. As the haunting legacy of Koh Tao looms large, the island continues to entice visitors with its stunning marine life, enchanting many despite its dark past. Meanwhile, concerned friends and family have rallied to raise over 38,000 euros (1.35 million baht) in a fundraiser to bring Kinlan’s remains back home. From the unsolved murders of British backpackers Hannah Witheridge and David Miller in 2014 to this latest mystery, Koh Tao remains swathed in controversies and secrets waiting to be unravelled. Update: Tragedy on Death Island: Irish diver found dead in hotel room (video) Royal Thai Police revealed more news on the death of Irishman Robert “Robby” Kinlan who was on a scuba diving holiday on Thailand’s infamous Death Island. An RTP spokesperson announced the 21 year old from Clare, Ireland, was found dead in a hotel room. Kinlan was discovered on January 9, lying lifeless on his bed in nothing but his boxer shorts. A friend tragically found him and despite urgent efforts, he could not be revived. Police have revealed that the young Irishman was clutching his phone, which was still connected to a wall socket, although the device was locked when authorities arrived. The small police station on Koh Tao, located roughly 250 miles south of Bangkok, now faces the challenge of waiting for turbulent seas to calm before Kinlan’s body can be transported to Surat Thani province on the mainland for a post-mortem examination, reported the Daily Mirror. As the island, notorious for its mysterious deaths, faces scrutiny once again, Robby’s family mourns the loss of their beloved son who sought adventure and freedom. Original story: Heartbroken Irish mum honours ‘special son’ lost in Thailand The mother of a young Irishman paid tribute to her “special son” who died last week while scuba diving in Thailand. The heartbroken mother is now trying to repatriate the body of her beloved 21 year old son from County Clare, whose life was tragically cut short in Koh Tao. Robert “Robby” Kinlan, died unexpectedly on January 9 while on the tropical paradise island of Koh Tao. Kinlan’s remains currently lie in a serene temple on the island of Ko Tao, nestled on the western shore of the Gulf of Thailand. Having recently celebrated the achievement of completing an advanced freediving course, the young Irishman was living out his dreams amidst the azure waves of Ko Tao. In an effort to bring him back to Ireland, Kinlan’s friends from the Dive Academy in Inishmore, where he was a cherished member, have launched a heartfelt GoFundMe campaign. The campaign aims to support his grieving mother, Tracy King, who shared a poignant tribute on social media, accompanied by photos of the tranquil temple where her son rests. “RIP to my precious son Robby. He is resting in this beautiful temple in Koh Tao, Thailand, before his journey back to Ireland. Thanks to all friends and family. Special thanks to the Guziuk family at Dive Academy Inis Mor.” Kinlan’s friend remains on Ko Tao to ensure he’s “not alone” until his journey home starts. The Guziuk family lovingly described Kinlan as a young man who “lit up every room with his kindness and warmth,” capturing the essence of his generous spirit. “Robby wasn’t just a friend, he was someone who truly brightened every space with his kindness and warmth. He was always the first to help others, prioritising their needs over his own without a moment’s hesitation. “In Thailand, he was surrounded by many friends and was living his dream, spending his days doing what he loved: freediving and scuba diving in the place that made him happiest. “Now, we seek to honour Robby’s memory in the most meaningful way by supporting his mum and family. We want to offer everyone the chance to say their goodbyes and celebrate the incredible person he was. Any support, no matter how small, would mean the world to his family during this unimaginably difficult time.” The community’s generosity has been overwhelming, raising over 30,000 euros (1.07 million baht) to date in the effort to bring Robby’s remains home, reported the Irish Examiner. If you wish to contribute to this heartfelt cause, you can donate via the GoFundMe page. Details surrounding his death have yet to be released by Thai police. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-14

Monk on knife and axe rampage wreaks havoc in Surin temple by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Buachet district, Surin province, responded to a report yesterday, January 13, of a monk wielding a knife and an axe, threatening locals at a temple in Ban Srae, Aphon subdistrict. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348754-monk-on-knife-and-axe-rampage-wreaks-havoc-in-surin-temple/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Police in Buachet district, Surin province, responded to a report yesterday, January 13, of a monk wielding a knife and an axe, threatening locals at a temple in Ban Srae, Aphon subdistrict. The monk, 42 year old Kanatsak, was reportedly experiencing a mental health crisis. Upon arriving at the scene, police, along with the Aphon subdistrict emergency services and Buachet Hospital staff, found Kanatsak in the midst of chasing and threatening villagers with the weapons. Officers managed to subdue him and tied his limbs with rope before transporting him to Buachet Hospital for further evaluation. During his stay at the hospital, Kanatsak managed to free himself from the restraints, causing alarm among the nursing staff and prompting another police intervention. The incident caused panic among hospital visitors, leading to a brief period of chaos. However, police swiftly brought the situation under control, ensuring no one was harmed or injured. Family members informed police that Kanatsak, who serves as the abbot of Ban Khok Sa-at Temple in the same district, has a history of mental health issues. Buachet Hospital is currently providing him with appropriate medical treatment, reported KhaoSod. In related news, a shocking incident unfolded in Udon Thani’s Ban Dung district when a disturbed individual allegedly killed a dog and displayed its butchered remains for sale. The dog, believed to have fled in panic due to new year fireworks, fell victim to the man’s disturbed behaviour. In other news, police arrested a Thai man for stealing shoes, some valued as high as 50,000 baht, from multiple temples in Bangkok. The man reportedly committed the thefts not for resale but to satisfy personal urges linked to his mental illness. According to The Nation, approximately 10 million individuals in Thailand are experiencing mental health problems. Notably, only about 2 million have sought treatment, indicating a substantial gap in mental health care access and utilisation. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-14

Bangkok Police Left Waiting as "Big Joke" Skips Money Laundering Charges Picture courtesy: THai Rath Bangkok’s Bang Rak Police Station was left hanging after "Big Joke" and his wife failed to appear to face money laundering accusations linked to an online gambling network. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348751-bangkok-police-left-waiting-as-big-joke-skips-money-laundering-charges/

Picture courtesy: THai Rath Bangkok’s Bang Rak Police Station was left hanging after "Big Joke" and his wife failed to appear to face money laundering accusations linked to an online gambling network. On 14th January, reports emerged regarding the absence of Pol. Gen. Surachet Hakphan, known as "Big Joke", and his wife Sirinatda, who were expected to turn themselves in over money laundering charges. The Office of the Anti-Money Laundering Committee (AMLO) had lodged a complaint after discovering payments for eight life insurance policies, worth approximately 1.7 million baht, were made from accounts tied to online gambling operations. The money used to pay these premiums was allegedly transferred from compromised bank accounts linked to the gambling network. The couple later surrendered the policies for cash in April last year, raising further questions. Despite indications from their representatives that they would present themselves at the Bang Rak Station on the evening of 13th January, they never arrived. This prompted heightened preparedness from police officers tasked with maintaining order and handling the investigation, with media on standby for their arrival. Authorities, led by investigating officer Pasan Jaisri, await further developments and remain ready to address the high-profile allegations against the former top cop and his spouse, reported Thai Rath. -- 2025-01-14

Turkish Tourist Tied Up and Robbed in Pattaya; Insider Job Suspected Picture courtesy: Daily News PATTAYA - A Turkish tourist was found tied up and robbed at a condo, sparking a police investigation that suspects involvement of someone close to the victim. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348748- turkish-tourist-tied-up-and-robbed-in-pattaya-insider-job-suspected/

Picture courtesy: Daily News PATTAYA - A Turkish tourist was found tied up and robbed at a condo, sparking a police investigation that suspects involvement of someone close to the victim. In the early hours of 14th January, police responded to a report of a tourist being forcibly detained and robbed at a condominium located in Pattaya. Mr. Masis Erkol, a 36-year-old Turkish national, was discovered by condo security in a distressed state, having been tied up with handcuffs and cable ties by three assailants. The robbers took off with a laptop and a substantial amount of cryptocurrency before fleeing the scene. Picture courtesy: Daily News Security personnel at the condo reported the incident to the police, describing how the victim had managed to get to them whilst still bound. The attackers had left him in his room on the fifth floor, giving him the opportunity to seek help once they had departed. With evidence such as a security video recorded at the scene, police are now investigating leads. Initial investigations by the police have suggested that the suspects might be individuals familiar with the victim or the condo, given its high-security measures. Pattaya authorities have begun a detailed examination of potential video footage and other evidence to identify the perpetrators. The police remain focused on collecting substantial evidence to pursue and apprehend those responsible for this crime. -- 2025-01-14 Picture courtesy: Daily News

Thailand Boosts Efforts to Reassure Chinese Tourists Amid Concerns Picture: ASEAN NOW In a bid to restore confidence among Chinese tourists after a concerning incident, Thailand's government has unveiled a new tourism campaign and heightened security measures. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348747-thailand-boosts-efforts-to-reassure-chinese-tourists-amid-concerns/

Picture: ASEAN NOW In a bid to restore confidence among Chinese tourists after a concerning incident, Thailand's government has unveiled a new tourism campaign and heightened security measures. The move follows the disappearance of Chinese actor Wang Xing, also known as Xingxing, who was lured to a lawless area in Myanmar after arriving in Thailand. This proactive response was announced by government spokesman Jirayu Huangsub, who relayed that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra instructed the Ministry of Tourism and Sports to develop initiatives aimed at rebuilding trust among Chinese visitors. Furthermore, the prime minister has directed the police chief to ensure sufficient tourist police presence in high-risk areas, with a specific focus on combating influential criminal gangs. "The prime minister highlighted that, although the missing Chinese actor has been found in Myanmar, this unfortunate incident has shaken the confidence of Chinese tourists," Mr Jirayu stated. Wang's ordeal began when he vanished shortly after his flight landed in Bangkok on January 3rd. He was last seen in Tak's Mae Sot district near the Thai-Myanmar border before losing all contact. Fortunately, he was located in Myanmar by January 5th and returned safely to Thailand the next day, eventually heading back to China. The government is also intensifying its efforts to tackle fake news. The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society is working closely with Chinese authorities to address misinformation and facilitate trust revival. Police inspector-general Pol Gen Thatchai Pitaneelabut has taken this opportunity to partner with the Chinese embassy in Bangkok. Discussions are underway to establish a cooperative centre for Thai and Chinese police to coordinate searches for individuals enticed across borders, whilst sharing intelligence on transnational crime, including call scams. There is also a renewed focus on curbing illegal border crossings. Muk Sulaiman, secretary to the House speaker, reported concerns from various embassies about their citizens being kidnapped by scam gangs during visits to Thailand, including incidents involving Kenyan nationals. The repercussions of such incidents have been stark. According to industry sources, there has been a noticeable dip in Chinese tour group bookings for the upcoming Lunar New Year, with numbers dropping by 20-30%. Moreover, high-profile events are being impacted; in a prominent case, Hong Kong singer Eason Chan abruptly cancelled his February 22nd concert at Bangkok's Impact Arena, citing safety concerns for his Chinese fans. In light of these developments, the Thai government’s focus remains resolutely on reassuring tourists, ensuring their safety, and restoring the country's reputation as a hospitable destination, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-14

Taxing tunes: Music giant pitches cut to boost Thailand’s soft power by Bob Scott Picture of BLACKPINK courtesy of Vicipaedia Thailand’s largest music company made a bold appeal to the government for a corporate tax reduction in the entertainment sector, arguing it could supercharge the industry and bolster the nation’s soft power ambitions. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348745-taxing-tunes-music-giant-pitches-cut-to-boost-thailand’s-soft-power/

Picture of BLACKPINK courtesy of Vicipaedia by Bob Scott Thailand’s largest music company made a bold appeal to the government for a corporate tax reduction in the entertainment sector, arguing it could supercharge the industry and bolster the nation’s soft power ambitions. GMM Music Plc CEO Phawit Chitrakorn paints a picture of an industry that thrives on slim profit margins, clocking in at a modest average of 10%. Phawit elaborated that, with the film, TV, and music industries collectively generating an annual revenue of 50 billion baht, the corresponding profit stands around 5 billion baht. With the current corporate income tax set at 20%, a tax exemption would see the government taking a hit of only 1 billion baht in lost revenue, he argued. To nurture the entertainment sector and advance Thailand’s soft power objectives, Phawit proposed that the government consider tax exemptions, potentially aligning with the Board of Investment’s promotion criteria. He emphasised that such exemptions would allow companies to boost their revenue and reinvest in their growth. As vice-chairman of the National Soft Power Development Subcommittee for Music, Phawit revealed that talks with government bodies about potential tax breaks are already in the works. Picture of Thailand’s soft power courtesy of Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau For Thai soft power to shine globally, he asserted, local cultural products must first charm Thai audiences. Engaging all stakeholders is essential, with the ultimate aim of luring international appreciation for Thailand’s soft power at home, rather than relying solely on exports. Phawit drew comparisons to South Korea’s triumph, noting that Korean stakeholders initially honed their focus on domestic promotion before branching out, a strategy that catapulted Korean culture to international fame. Developing Thailand’s soft power, he insisted, requires empowering the behind-the-scenes teams driving this cultural push, reported Bangkok Post. Forecasting a 7-10% growth for the Thai music industry this year, Phawit cited surging revenues from digital channels, concert organisation, and artist management as key growth drivers. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-14

Army Announces Movement of Military Equipment for Army Day Parade, Saraburi Picture courtesy: Siam RAth The Army would like to announce the movement of military equipment from units in the Bangkok area, Chonburi, Prachinburi, Chachoengsao, and Lopburi to be showcased during the oath-taking ceremony in front of the Victory Flag and the military parade on Army Day, 18th January 2025, at the Multi-purpose Field, Cavalry Centre, Saraburi. The movement of the equipment will begin on 12th January 2025 at 08:00 hrs. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348743-army-announces-movement-of-military-equipment-for-army-day-parade-saraburi/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath The Army would like to announce the movement of military equipment from units in the Bangkok area, Chonburi, Prachinburi, Chachoengsao, and Lopburi to be showcased during the oath-taking ceremony in front of the Victory Flag and the military parade on Army Day, 18th January 2025, at the Multi-purpose Field, Cavalry Centre, Saraburi. The movement of the equipment will begin on 12th January 2025 at 08:00 hrs. The details are as follows: 2nd Royal Infantry Division (2nd R.O.) The unit will move two BTR-3E1 and BTR-3RK wheeled armoured vehicles, along with a T-84 Oplot tank. The convoy will travel from the unit's base in Mueang District, Prachinburi via: 2nd Infantry Division Headquarters Highway 33 Highway 320 2nd Infantry Regiment (1st Battalion) Highway 320 Highway 33 Route 3222 Highway 2 Cavalry Centre, Saraburi Artillery Division (Artillery Corps) The unit will move two 122mm SR-4 multiple rocket launchers and 155mm ATMG self-propelled artillery. The convoy will travel from the unit's base at Sirikit Camp, Lopburi via: Highway 1 Highway 362 Highway 2 Cavalry Centre, Saraburi Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Anti-Aircraft Artillery Division (AAAD) The unit will move the VL MICA air defence system. The convoy will travel from the unit’s base in Bangkok via: Tiwanon Road North Ratchaya Expressway (Sri Saman) Highway 9 Highway 1 Cavalry Centre, Saraburi 11th Infantry Division (11th R.O.) The unit will move M1126 STRYKER wheeled armoured vehicles. The convoy will travel from the unit's base at 11th Infantry Division via: Bang Nam Preaw–Chachoengsao Road Highway 305 Highway 3051 Highway 2 Parallel Route of Phahonyothin Road Cavalry Centre, Saraburi Army Ordnance Department (AOD) The unit will move VT4 tanks. The convoy will travel from the AOD base via: Military Road Pradipat Road Rama VI Road Si Rat Expressway Udon Ratchaya Expressway Phahonyothin Road Eastern Saraburi Bypass Mittraphap Road Phahonyothin Road Cavalry Centre, Saraburi 2nd Royal Cavalry Division (2nd M.R.O.) The unit will move M60 A3 tanks. The convoy will travel from the unit's base at 1st Battalion, 17th Cavalry Regiment, Saraburi via: Eastern Saraburi Bypass Mittraphap Road Phahonyothin Road Cavalry Centre, Saraburi The equipment will be returned to the respective units on the same routes on 19th January 2025. The Army apologises for any inconvenience caused. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath -- 2025-01-14

Hong Kong Task Force in Thailand Targets Job Scam Prevention File photo courtesy: South China Morning Post In a proactive response to a surge in job scam cases, Hong Kong's security officials have dispatched a task force to Thailand. This initiative highlights the growing concern over "high-paying" job offers that have lured unsuspecting individuals into human trafficking syndicates across Southeast Asia. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348742-hong-kong-task-force-in-thailand-targets-job-scam-prevention/

File photo courtesy: South China Morning Post In a proactive response to a surge in job scam cases, Hong Kong's security officials have dispatched a task force to Thailand. This initiative highlights the growing concern over "high-paying" job offers that have lured unsuspecting individuals into human trafficking syndicates across Southeast Asia. The task force, spearheaded by Undersecretary for Security Michael Cheuk Hau-yip, aims to collaborate with Thai authorities and the Chinese embassy to address the intricate web of scams. The visit underscores Hong Kong's commitment to safeguarding its citizens, as recent events—including the rescue of mainland actor Wang Xing—have reignited fears of trafficking traps. Security legislator Gary Chan Hak-kan emphasises that the high-profile mission could serve as a crucial reminder for residents to scrutinise lucrative job offers critically. "The task force's presence in Thailand could act as a deterrent while highlighting the seriousness of these cases," Chan explains. The delegation's collaborative efforts with Bangkok's Economic and Trade Office (ETO) and local authorities aim to bolster the capacity to handle such complex cases. Although the ETO plays a pivotal role, Chan acknowledges that the task force's blend of immigration officers, police, and bureau personnel enhances coordination and diplomacy. Lai Tung-kok, a legislator and former security minister, welcomes the task force's approach, viewing it as a strategic diplomatic move. He stresses the importance of ongoing educational campaigns to prevent further victimisation, expressing optimism in the capabilities of Thai authorities to manage the situation effectively. Between 2022 and early 2023, Hong Kong reported 46 cases of citizens ensnared in Myanmar and Cambodia, deceived by promises of high-paying work. Their passports were seized upon arrival, leading to forced labour under harsh conditions, guarded by armed personnel. Remarkably, 43 of the 46 victims have returned to Hong Kong, while three opted out of further assistance after rescue. Cheuk highlights that current syndicates have adapted, directing individuals to South East Asia under misleading pretences. Amidst shifting tactics, the backdrop of earlier operations near Myanmar's Laos border has now expanded to northern Thailand. Cheuk cautions Hong Kongers against venturing near borders with Myanmar and Laos, known hotspots for such criminal activities. As of December, security secretary Chris Tang Ping-keung noted an increase to 28 reported cases in 2024, with 12 individuals still unaccounted for. Some of these, aged 21 to 43, have reported restrictions on movement but maintain communication with families and authorities. The task force's mission, while significant, serves as a broader call for vigilance. It marks an earnest step towards dismantling sophisticated scam operations, reminding potential workers of the ever-evolving risks tied to too-good-to-be-true job offers, reported Bangkok Post, South China Morning Post. -- 2025-01-14

Data Breach Concerns for Oppo and Realme Phone Users File photo: Generic mobile phone mockup Mobile phone giants Oppo and Realme find themselves embroiled in controversy over personal data protection issues due to pre-installed software on their devices. Reports indicate that customer data may have been retained without proper consent, potentially infringing Thailand's Personal Data Protection Act. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348739-data-breach-concerns-for-oppo-and-realme-phone-users/

File photo: Generic mobile phone mockup Mobile phone giants Oppo and Realme find themselves embroiled in controversy over personal data protection issues due to pre-installed software on their devices. Reports indicate that customer data may have been retained without proper consent, potentially infringing Thailand's Personal Data Protection Act. The trouble centres on the Fineasy app, a loan service application found pre-installed on some devices from both brands. Notably, Fineasy lacks the necessary licence from the Bank of Thailand to offer personal loans digitally, placing it under scrutiny. Unlike typical uninstallable apps, Fineasy persists as a system app, raising alarm over its chilling access to personal user data, including contact lists. In response to mounting concerns sparked by the Thailand Consumers Council (TCC), the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has ordered distributors to halt sales of phones with the pre-installed app. A meeting called by the NBTC, involving all related parties including Oppo and Realme importers, sought clarity on the situation, yet crucial answers remain elusive, including the identity of the app's owner. NBTC acting secretary-general Trairat Viriyasirikul emphasised that the Fineasy app does not hold status as a licenced loan service. Despite importer claims of no data leakage, the substantial volume of data collected by the app, apparent since early 2023, places Oppo and Realme under significant legal risk. Compounding this, both firms have yet to appoint data controllers in Thailand, a requisite under the personal data laws. Pol Col Suraphong Plengkham of the Personal Data Protection Commission highlighted the severity of potential infractions, but the investigation remains ongoing, with guilt not yet determined. Meanwhile, NBTC commissioner Pol Gen Nathathorn Prousoontorn indicated that typical regulatory checks focus on the physical safety of devices rather than installed software, leaving a gap in oversight. To address user concerns, both Oppo and Realme have committed to providing phone users with the means to uninstall the Fineasy app within 30 days, with immediate removal options available through customer service. The unfolding situation has seen both brands issuing apologies and removing loan-related functionalities from the app, proposing enhanced convenience features as a remedy. These developments underline the necessity for comprehensive software oversight on mobile devices, aiming to safeguard user data and maintain consumer trust in the digital age, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-01-14

Former MP Suggests Thaksin’s Medical Records Could Be a Tall Tale Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Concerns have been raised about the authenticity of the medical records related to Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential Pheu Thai figure, by Warong Dechgitvigrom, a former Democrat MP and current chair of the Thai Pakdee Party. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348736-former-mp-suggests-thaksin’s-medical-records-could-be-a-tall-tale/

Picture courtesy: Thai PBS Concerns have been raised about the authenticity of the medical records related to Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential Pheu Thai figure, by Warong Dechgitvigrom, a former Democrat MP and current chair of the Thai Pakdee Party. Warong expressed doubts on social media that the medical records from Police Hospital truly reflect Thaksin's health condition during his treatment for alleged "critical illnesses" last year. Thaksin, who previously faced a curtailed one-year prison sentence for power abuse, received treatment at Police Hospital purportedly for serious health issues. However, there have been ongoing suspicions that his medical condition was exaggerated to avoid incarceration at Bangkok Remand Prison. The lack of detailed disclosure about his health, attributed to patient privacy regulations, has only fuelled speculation. Warong, who is also a medical professional, suggested that the records might have been manipulated to support what he described as a "six-month-long fake-out" at the hospital. These allegations imply that the records could have been altered to justify Thaksin’s extended stay in medical care instead of serving time in prison. The unfolding saga around Thaksin's hospitalisation poses significant questions for the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), which has been unable to secure the medical records from Police Hospital. An ad hoc committee has been formed by the NACC to investigate the authenticity of the claims regarding Thaksin's health, yet official progress reports remain unavailable. The potential outcomes of the investigation could have far-reaching implications. Should the NACC conclude that Thaksin feigned his illness, it might result in his return to prison to complete his sentence. Additionally, any discrepancies found in the hospital's handling of Thaksin's case could implicate senior police and medical officials. Prominent political activist Tul Sittisomwong, also a medical doctor, has expressed concerns over possible legal repercussions for those involved in processing Thaksin's case, suggesting misconduct charges could be pursued. Furthermore, Justice Minister Thavi Sodsong might face allegations of power abuse, potentially facing legal action if found to have improperly granted Thaksin preferential treatment. The controversy over Thaksin's hospital stay and the subsequent political manoeuvres, including changes in government coalitions, continue to stir significant public interest and scrutiny in Thailand's political and legal arenas, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-01-14

PM Paetongtarn Denies Allegations of Concealing 4.4 Billion Baht FILE PHOTO - Thailand's Prime Minister-designate Paetongtarn Shinawatra, with members of Pheu Thai party talks to reporters during a press conference at Pheu Thai party headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, Friday, Aug. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Wason Wanichakorn) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has firmly denied accusations of concealing a staggering 4.4 billion Baht in cash, allegedly linked to her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, the influential Pheu Thai figurehead. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348716-pm paetongtarn-denies-allegations-of-concealing-44-billion-baht/

Making waves: Miss Grand Roi Et turns up heat with sexy swimwear By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Miss Grand Roi Et 2025 beauty pageant The Miss Grand Roi Et 2025 beauty pageant ignited quite a stir, thanks to a daring choice of swimwear that sent social media into a frenzied meltdown. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348704-making-waves-miss-grand-roi-et-turns-up-heat-with-sexy-swimwear/

Pattaya on pause: Plan ahead or lose the booze By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of The Moscow Times Local officials in Pattaya issued a gentle reminder to plan carefully for upcoming events in the city including the Chon Buri local elections and the booze bans. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348700-pattaya-on-pause-plan-ahead-or-lose-the-booze/