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Picture courtesy: Thai Rath A disturbing incident has emerged from a school in Kanchanaburi province, where six schoolboys allegedly raped and blackmailed two 13-year-old girls in the school’s athlete dormitory. Both the school and police are now deeply involved in the investigation. The father of one of the victims, seeking justice for his daughter, reported that the assault occurred in the afternoon of August 23. The young girls were tricked into meeting the boys at the dormitory. The attackers recorded their reprehensible acts, using the footage to blackmail the victims, threatening to release it. Having learned about the assault from his daughter on August 24, the father wasted no time contacting the police and sharing the ordeal with the non-profit organisation Saimai Survive. This prompted swift action from law enforcement. Ekkephop Leuangprasert, founder of Saimai Survive, has been closely monitoring the situation. The police revealed the gang involved boys as young as 11 and as old as 15. Specialists and officers are set to question the accused. Interestingly, the school's football coach provided a controversial defence of the boys, claiming that CCTV footage showed the girls entering the dormitory willingly. He argued that no force or threats were visible and pointed out that other students in the dormitory reported no commotion during the alleged time of the assault. Despite these claims, the school authorities are taking the allegations seriously. The Kanchanaburi Provincial Educational Service Office has established a special committee to investigate. The investigation is expected to conclude within a week. In the interim, the school director has been temporarily transferred, and the dormitory may be removed. The affected girls have been granted three days off from school, and psychological support is being arranged. The case has sparked widespread concern, highlighting the urgent need for strong protective measures for students within educational institutions. -- 2024-08-27 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Old Thai Coins May Be Worth Millions; Collectors Urged to Check FILE - Courtesy: Intergold Collectors of old Thai coins are in for a potential windfall as certain coins, including 1 baht, 5 baht, and 10 baht coins from specific years, c Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336554-old-thai-coins-may-be-worth-millions-collectors-urged-to-check/

FILE - Courtesy: Intergold Collectors of old Thai coins are in for a potential windfall as certain coins, including 1 baht, 5 baht, and 10 baht coins from specific years, could be worth significant amounts of money, sometimes even reaching millions of baht. Yesterday, a TikTok user shared valuable information, highlighting the need for collectors and the general public to scrutinise their collections. In the video, the user revealed that a 1 baht coin from 1986 (2529 B.E.) can fetch between 200 and 500 baht. This revelation has set off a wave of excitement amongst collectors. Delving deeper into the details, the video further explained that 5 baht coins from 1997 are particularly sought after, with collectors willing to pay between 4,000 and 7,000 baht. However, the user advised caution as some coins have been tampered with by altering the numeral ‘5’ to a ‘4’ through filing. It's crucial to inspect coins closely for any signs of such modifications to determine their authenticity. Equally intriguing is the demand for 10 baht coins from 1988. With only 62,000 of these coins minted, they command prices ranging from 700 to 1,000 baht. Yet, the rarest and most valuable are the 10 baht coins from 1990. These coveted coins can fetch an astounding 500,000 to 1 million baht due to their rarity, with only 100 coins minted and just over ten known to exist in Thailand. There is also a 10 baht coin from 1998, but its value is relatively modest, priced between 50 and 500 baht. The TikTok user reiterated the importance of vigilance, urging collectors to examine their coins meticulously for any alterations that could affect their value. This recent surge in interest underscores the hidden treasures that might be lying unnoticed in coin collections across the country. -- 2024-08-27 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Tuesday 27 August 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336552-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-tuesday-27-august-2024/

Activists have praised a Narathiwat court's decision to hear a lawsuit against seven officials accused of being responsible for a 2004 massacre that left 85 dead. Mr. Kanavee, an MP from the Fair Party, emphasized the importance of acknowledging past atrocities to shape the country's global image. He urged the government to demonstrate clear political will to address unrest in the south and called for constructive dialogue to achieve lasting peace in Pattani. Thailand's Secretary for Foreign Affairs oversaw a government donation of nine million baht yesterday to support humanitarian aid for the Myanmar crisis. This pledge follows the recent 57th ASEAN meeting in Vientiane. Since 2021, Thailand has also contributed US$450,000 to various international organizations, including UN agencies and the International Committee of the Red Cross. Local authorities in Phuket are seeking expert advice to survey a mountainous area where deadly landslides claimed 13 lives and injured 19 others last week. The landslides, which sent massive boulders tumbling down the mountain, affected the Rawai and Chalong areas. Initial investigations suggest that land subsidence near the base of a temple on the hill may have triggered the disaster. Authorities aim to determine the cause and implement measures to prevent future incidents. The Airports of Thailand company, held its first public hearing yesterday, attended by 300 local residents to discuss a five-year plan to expand Chiang Mai Airport. The 24-billion-baht project aims to increase the airport's capacity to handle 20 million passengers annually. AOT’s environment director highlighted the importance of this expansion to strengthen the airport's role as a gateway to northern Thailand. Around the region Malaysia: An Asian technology group including Google, Meta and X urged Malaysia in an open letter to pause a plan that will require social media services to apply for a licence, citing a lack of clarity over the proposed regulations. However, the letter from the Asia Internet Coalition was removed from its website late yesterday without explanation. Todays Weather Chiang Mai and the north: Thundershowers 33C degrees celsius Bangkok: Thundershowers 34 Pattaya: heavy rain with thundershowers 31 Phuket and the south: thundershowers 29 Hua Hin: Sunny becoming cloudy perhaps an isolated thundershower this afternoon 32C 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 2024-08-27 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Jewellery Heist: Employee Arrested for Stealing 24 Million Baht in Gold Picture courtesy: MGR online Officers from the Phra Ratchawang Police Station in Bangkok have arrested a jewellery store employee who had been stealing gold necklaces from the store's showcase over the years, amassing a total of 646 baht in weight, equating to more than 24 million baht. The suspect, named Pisan, confessed to using the proceeds from selling the stolen gold for personal expenses and travel. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336549-jewellery-heist-employee-arrested-for-stealing-24-million-baht-in-gold/

Officers from the Phra Ratchawang Police Station in Bangkok have arrested a jewellery store employee who had been stealing gold necklaces from the store's showcase over the years, amassing a total of 646 baht in weight, equating to more than 24 million baht. The suspect, named Pisan, confessed to using the proceeds from selling the stolen gold for personal expenses and travel. On August 24, Police Major General Samart Promchat, Commander of Metropolitan Police Division 6, together with Deputy Commander Naris Pratanaporn, led an investigative team to apprehend Pisan. The arrest warrant had been issued by the Nakhon Pathom Provincial Court on July 25, 2024. Pisan, aged 40, was detained in front of a house in the Saothonghin area of Bang Yai district, Nonthaburi, following a tip-off regarding his location. Upon arrival, the officers identified themselves and confirmed Pisan’s identity before presenting the arrest warrant. During questioning, Pisan admitted to stealing gold necklaces from a jewellery store in the Phra Ratchawang area. He detailed his stealing technique: he would move gold necklaces from the lower showcase to the upper showcase, unhook several necklaces, and leave them hanging. Later, he pretended to arrange the necklaces in the upper showcase, surreptitiously letting the unhooked necklaces drop into his hand, which he concealed in his trouser pocket. Pisan repeated this covert operation multiple times. Starting in June 2023, Pisan began stealing gold necklaces and bracelets, each weighing 1 to 2 baht. Every theft involved approximately five to fifteen necklaces, with the activity continuing until his apprehension. Pisan claimed he could not remember the exact quantity of gold stolen due to the frequency of his thefts. All the stolen gold had been sold, and the proceeds were used for everyday expenses and travel. In total, Pisan admitted to stealing around 646 baht in gold, resulting in a loss valued at 24 million baht. Police have detained Pisan at the Phra Ratchawang Police Station for further legal proceedings. Picture courtesy: MGR online -- 2024-08-27 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thaksin Labels Pheu Thai Dissolution Lawsuit ‘Baloney’ Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra, often seen as the real power behind ruling party Pheu Thai, has dismissed a lawsuit seeking the party’s dissolution as "nothing but baloney." Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336543-thaksin-labels-pheu-thai-dissolution-lawsuit-‘baloney’/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra, often seen as the real power behind ruling party Pheu Thai, has dismissed a lawsuit seeking the party’s dissolution as "nothing but baloney." Thaksin, father of the current Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, remains unperturbed by this legal challenge, which accuses him of illegally exerting influence over the party. Due to previous convictions, Thaksin cannot officially be part of any political entity, although his influence has been undeniable. The lawsuit, recently filed with the Election Commission, claims Thaksin's actions amount to an illegal control of Pheu Thai. However, the billionaire has waved off these allegations with characteristic bravado. Thaksin's adversaries argue that his behind-the-scenes manoeuvres have significantly shaped the current Pheu Thai-led government structure. This includes pivotal decisions such as the appointment of former real estate tycoon Srettha Thavisin as Prime Minister and the allocation of key cabinet positions among coalition partners. Despite the gravity of the lawsuit, the Pheu Thai ranks, including Prime Minister Paetongtarn, remain publicly unruffled. When questioned about the case, Paetongtarn offered no comment, reflecting the party’s strategy to downplay the issue. Supporters of Thaksin and the Pheu Thai party claim the allegations are baseless. They argue that Thaksin has merely been providing “solicited advice” to his daughter, as any father would. Official responses from the party uniformly dismiss the claims as legally and practically unfounded, though members often refer to Thaksin as “boss." The Election Commission, an ostensibly independent body, now holds the petition. Past dissolutions of Thaksin’s parties, Thai Rak Thai in 2007 and People’s Power in 2008, were based on electoral rigging. However, this new lawsuit addresses different issues, primarily Thaksin’s indirect but pervasive influence. Historically, Thaksin founded the Thai Rak Thai party in 1998, serving as Prime Minister until a coup in 2006 forced him into exile. The subsequent dissolution of his political groups and their reformation into newer entities have been a pattern, indicative of the ongoing political turmoil in Thailand. It remains to be seen how the Election Commission will act. Still, Thaksin’s confidence and the Pheu Thai party’s apparent solidarity suggest they are prepared to face this latest challenge. -- 2024-08-27 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Ex-police chief arraigned for mishandling Red Bull heir case Picture courtesy: MGR online Former national police chief Pol Gen Somyot Poompanmuang, alongside seven other high-profile suspects, is set to be held accountable this Thursday for their alleged roles in mishandling the notorious hit-and-run case involving Red Bull heir Vorayuth Yoovidhya, dating back to 2012. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336542-former-police-chief-arraigned-over-red-bull-heirs-case-mishandling/

Picture courtesy: MGR online Former national police chief Pol Gen Somyot Poompanmuang, alongside seven other high-profile suspects, is set to be held accountable this Thursday for their alleged roles in mishandling the notorious hit-and-run case involving Red Bull heir Vorayuth Yoovidhya, dating back to 2012. The group facing charges includes prominent names such as former deputy attorney-general Nate Naksuk, Pol Maj-Gen Thawatchai Mekprasertuk, Pol Col Veeradol Taptimdee, and civilians like Chainarong Sangthongaram, Thanit Buakhiew, Chuchai Lertpongadisorn, and Associate Professor Saiprasit Kerdniyom. The charges against them arise from their purported involvement in altering police reports and dismissing charges to benefit Yoovidhya. According to Watcharin Phanurat, deputy prosecution director-general of the Office of Investigation, the suspects are required to report to the office before being taken to the Bangkok Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases to face formal indictment. Naksuk, for instance, is charged with malfeasance in office for his decision to drop the speeding charge against Yoovidhya. Others face accusations of conspiring to manipulate the reported speed of the vehicle involved in the fatal incident. Phanurat estimates the proceedings might extend for another year. Despite the high status of the suspects, he emphasised his commitment to revealing the truth in this controversial and widely criticised case. Notably, many of the charges initially brought against Yoovidhya, including speeding and failing to assist an accident victim, have been dismissed due to the statute of limitations. Nonetheless, a charge of reckless driving resulting in death remains. The incident in question occurred on September 4th, 2012, when Yoovidhya allegedly struck and killed policeman Wichian Klanprasert with his Ferrari on Sukhumvit Road. Currently, Yoovidhya remains overseas, evading the charge. -- 2024-08-27 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Tuesday 27 August 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1336541-thailand-live-tuesday-27-august-2024/

Remains of 9 victims of Chachoengsao plane crash recovered Forensic officers have recovered the remains of all nine people on board the Cessna Caravan plane which crashed into a mangrove swamp in Bang Pakong district of Chachoengsao province on August 22. Photo: Thai PBS World Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336202-22-august-small-aircraft-crash-in-chachoengsao/?do=findComment&comment=19182228

Yingluck’s 6 trillion baht water project revived to address floods by Ryan Turne Image: Public Relations Department A massive water management project initially proposed by Yingluck Shinawatra may be revived, aiming to tackle Thailand’s recurring issues of flooding and drought. The initiative, projected to cost around 6 trillion baht, has been deemed a national priority by Caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336485-yingluck’s-6-trillion-baht-water-project-revived-to-address-floods/

A massive water management project initially proposed by Yingluck Shinawatra may be revived, aiming to tackle Thailand’s recurring issues of flooding and drought. The initiative, projected to cost around 6 trillion baht, has been deemed a national priority by Caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. “The matter was first raised by the Yingluck government. In 2011, a budget of 2 to 3 trillion baht was set aside for the project. Now, it will cost about 5 to 6 trillion to carry out the project.” Phumtham emphasised that despite the substantial expenditure, the long-term benefits would justify the investment. During a visit to Nan province, Phumtham inspected flood relief operations and distributed supplies to affected residents. He noted Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra‘s concern for flood victims and her frustration over the caretaker government’s limited capacity to assist until a new government is formed. “The caretaker government is now doing everything in its power to help.” Once the new government is in place, the water management project will be proposed for consideration. Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra recently advocated for several water projects to address the country’s persistent flooding and drought issues. Persistent floods As of yesterday, August 25, floods were reported in five northern provinces: Chiang Rai, Nan, Phayao, Phetchabun, and Phrae, according to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM). Between August 16 and yesterday, floods claimed the lives of 22 people, with 13 fatalities in Phuket. The inundation has displaced 30,807 families across 22 provinces. Chaovalit Gunkham, an assistant governor of the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT), mentioned that while some northern areas have seen floodwaters recede, EGAT will continue to monitor water levels in major river basins. The Sirikit Dam in Uttaradit province, one of the main dams in the upper north of Thailand, is currently 70% full and can accommodate an additional 2.9 million cubic metres of runoff. To prevent downstream flooding and conserve water for the dry season, the dam’s discharge rate has been reduced to three million cubic metres per day. Surasee Kittimonthon, secretary-general of the Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR), reported that continuous rainfall has caused water levels along the Mekong River to rise, impacting low-lying areas in the north and northeast. The ONWR has issued an emergency notice to the Mekong River Commission Secretariat (MRCS), requesting increased flood surveillance and daily reports from water stations in Chiang Rai, Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Amnat Charoen, and Ubon Ratchathani. High waters In Sukhothai, the Yom River overflowed its banks yesterday, flooding villages and farmland in Sawankhalok, Sri Samrong, Kong Krailat, and Mueang districts with waters up to 50 centimetres deep. Governor Suchart Theekhasuk ordered the establishment of a relief operation centre to assist affected residents. With more rain expected, relevant authorities in Bangkok have implemented measures to prevent runoff from the north from causing widespread flooding in the capital. Deputy Governor Wissanu Sapsompol stated that City Hall is closely monitoring water levels along the Chao Phraya River and sharing data with the Royal Irrigation Department, Centre of National Water Administration, and ONWR. “The flow [of the Chao Phraya River] through Ayutthaya’s Bang Sai district was not at a worrying level today. Run-off from Nan is expected to take about five days to arrive downstream, and we will know [the severity of the situation] two days in advance when the water reaches Bang Sai.” He also mentioned that officials have reinforced and heightened flood walls along the Chao Phraya with sandbags. Resources, including sandbags and water pumps, have been mobilised to flood-prone areas across Bangkok to ensure a swift response in emergencies, reported Bangkok Post. by Ryan Turne Image: Public Relations Department Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

King cobra makes a hiss-terious house call in Chon Buri by Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of Devdiscourse official website A homeowner in Chon Buri had a terrifying encounter when a 4-metre king cobra slithered into their house. The snake, which raised its head as if to greet the homeowner, coiled itself under a table, prompting a call for assistance from local authorities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336484-king-cobra-makes-a-hiss-terious-house-call-in-chon-buri/

A homeowner in Chon Buri had a terrifying encounter when a 4-metre king cobra slithered into their house. The snake, which raised its head as if to greet the homeowner, coiled itself under a table, prompting a call for assistance from local authorities. At 5am yesterday, August 25, the Tri Khunatham Foundation’s rescue team received an urgent call from residents of house number 32, Moo 5, in Nong Ri, Mueang district, Chon Buri. The team rushed to the scene equipped with snake-handling tools. Upon arrival, the rescue team found the massive king cobra under a table. It took them over 20 minutes to carefully capture the aggressive snake. After securing the cobra in a sack, the situation seemed under control. However, the sack had a tear, allowing the snake to escape, leading to a second round of frantic efforts to capture it again. A volunteer from the Tri Khunatham Foundation, Naphon Ngamsamoe, explained the risks associated with such venomous snakes. “A king cobra’s venom is deadly. If bitten and not treated immediately, it could be fatal. People without proper snake-handling knowledge should always call experts.” He further mentioned that the snake would be released back into its natural habitat. Naphon also highlighted the importance of being cautious, especially during the rainy season. ” Venomous snakes tend to seek dry places. With the current storm season causing rain in many areas, I urge residents to be extra careful, particularly around items stored outside their homes.” Additionally, Naphon noted that snakes often enter homes in search of food like rats and find hiding places among piles of materials or objects, reported Khaosod. In related news, in Suphan Buri, a couple discovered a 3.2-meter king cobra under their house, prompting a rescue call. The snake was safely captured and released. The couple, believing the encounter might bring them luck, plans to use their house number, 613, for lottery tickets. by Sarishti Arora Picture courtesy of Devdiscourse official website Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

New Cabinet line-up to be finalised by weekend by Ryan Turner Image: Varuth Hirunyatheb/Bangkok Post The new Cabinet line-up is expected to be finalised by the end of the week, according to Caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The government plans to immediately address national issues following the announcement of its policy statement in parliament next month. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336477-new-cabinet-line-up-to-be-finalised-by-weekend/

The new Cabinet line-up is expected to be finalised by the end of the week, according to Caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The government plans to immediately address national issues following the announcement of its policy statement in parliament next month. Phumtham, who stepped in as acting prime minister after Srettha Thavisin’s dismissal by the Constitutional Court, confirmed that the Pheu Thai Party is working diligently to prepare the Cabinet line-up. This readiness is crucial for the government to start addressing pressing issues facing the country. Once the line-up is finalised, it will be submitted to His Majesty the King for royal endorsement. Following approval, the new ministers will take an oath of office before His Majesty the King. Phumtham anticipates that the policy statement will be discussed and announced in the second week of September. Phumtham noted that the number of candidates proposed by coalition allies surpasses the 35 available Cabinet posts, as stipulated by the constitution. “This is because each party is preparing for the possibility of one or more of their candidates being declared ineligible to assume a Cabinet post.” The Constitutional Court has set high ethical standards for Cabinet ministers, particularly after ex-PM Srettha’s dismissal for appointing the former convict Pichit Chuenban as a PM’s Office minister. Remains optimistic While optimistic about completing the line-up by the end of the week, Phumtham declined to comment on reports suggesting the Democrat Party, a long-standing rival of Pheu Thai, might join the new coalition government. “I cannot comment on the matter. It will become clear once the new ministers are royally endorsed.” Speculation indicates that the Democrat Party could receive two ministerial positions if they join the coalition. Party leader Chalermchai Sri-on is rumoured to become the Natural Resources and Environment Minister, with secretary-general Det-it Khaothong potentially taking a deputy minister position. These positions were initially intended for the Palang Pracharath Party (PPRP), led by Prawit Wongsuwon, who sources say may be excluded from the new Pheu Thai-led administration. Rumours of the Democrat Party joining the coalition emerged after former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra indicated at the Vision for Thailand forum last Thursday, August 22, that the new government, led by his daughter, would include Democrat members. Democrat Deputy Secretary-General Chaichana Detdecho attended the forum, marking Thaksin’s first public speaking engagement in Thailand in 17 years. Deputy Democrat leader Narapat Kaewthong stated yesterday, August 25, that the party had not yet received any invitation to join the Pheu Thai-led government. However, if approached, party executives and MPs will convene to make a decision. Addressing the rivalry between the Democrats and Pheu Thai, Narapat emphasised that politicians must instead prioritise public interest, reported Bangkok Post. by Ryan Turner Image: Varuth Hirunyatheb/Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

German Teacher Escapes Attempted Rape in Isaan by Grab Rider Picture courtesy: Daily News, Facebook/ PeakZa Harleyman In a shocking incident in Ubon Ratchathani's Isaan province, a German teacher narrowly escaped an attempted rape by a Grab rider on Friday, August 23. The woman sought help at a tea shop on Suppasit Road around 7:30 PM. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336475-german-teacher-escapes-attempted-rape-in-isaan-by-grab-rider/

In a shocking incident in Ubon Ratchathani's Isaan province, a German teacher narrowly escaped an attempted rape by a Grab rider on Friday, August 23. The woman sought help at a tea shop on Suppasit Road around 7:30 PM. Police from Mueang Ubon Ratchathani Police Station, supported by the Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Rescue Foundation, responded promptly. They found the teacher in a state of shock, tearfully recounting her harrowing experience. The victim explained she had booked a Grab ride home from a shopping mall around 7 PM. The rider, identified as 39-year-old Thitipong, deviated from the route, taking her to a secluded forest area where he attempted to rape her. In a desperate struggle, the woman managed to fight off Thitipong, who then punched her in the face. She escaped and found refuge at a nearby tea shop. Police utilised security camera footage to identify Thitipong, locating him at his home in Kham Yai sub-district early the next morning. When questioned, Thitipong provided a contradictory account, accusing the victim of seductive behaviour and claiming it led to a misunderstanding. He alleged that he only parked the motorcycle because he misinterpreted her actions. When she poked his eyes in self-defence, he reacted violently, but he denied any intention of rape or theft, despite her phone going missing. Thitipong's drug test revealed methamphetamine, commonly known as yaba, in his system. Consequently, he faces multiple charges, including: - Physical assault (up to 2 years imprisonment or a 40,000 baht fine) - Detaining a person leading to severe injury (3 to 15 years imprisonment) - Theft using a vehicle (5 to 10 years imprisonment with a fine of 100,000 to 200,000 baht) - Driving under the influence of drugs (3 to 10 years imprisonment, a 60,000 to 200,000 baht fine, and a driving licence withdrawal) This incident has raised alarms regarding rider safety and the measures in place to protect passengers. The authorities are urging increased scrutiny and regulation to prevent such occurrences in the future. Picture courtesy: Daily News, Facebook/ PeakZa Harleyman -- 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Kyrgyz Boxer Faces Sexual Assault Charges Picture courtesy: Khaosod PHUKET — A Kyrgyz boxer visiting Phuket for training has been arrested after being accused of sexually assaulting a spa employee in the Mueang Phuket District. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local and expat communities nestled in this popular tourist destination. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336474-kyrgyz-boxer-faces-sexual-assault-charges/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod PHUKET — A Kyrgyz boxer visiting Phuket for training has been arrested after being accused of sexually assaulting a spa employee in the Mueang Phuket District. The incident has sent shockwaves through the local and expat communities nestled in this popular tourist destination. On August 24, Chalong Police Station officers apprehended Mr Sultan, 28, a seasoned boxer hailing from Kyrgyzstan. The arrest follows a grave accusation made by 19-year-old Miss A, an employee at a spa located in Moo 3, Chalong Sub-district. According to Miss A's police report, the alleged assault occurred on August 18 when Sultan visited the spa to use the ice bath service. Miss A detailed that Sultan initially acted like a regular customer, making use of the facilities she had prepared. However, events took a distressing turn later in the afternoon. Sultan allegedly followed Miss A into a room where she went to turn off gas equipment and began sexually harassing her. Despite his efforts, the assault did not escalate to completion as Sultan reportedly suffered from back pain, rendering him unable to continue. Before leaving, he used a translation app to tell Miss A, “Can’t continue due to back pain, and will come back the next day,” followed by an ominous “Don’t tell anyone.” Miss A immediately reported the incident to the police. Forensic officers quickly gathered evidence from the crime scene, summoning Sultan for questioning. The boxer wasn't quiet on social media, curiously posting pictures of himself training as usual, seemingly unfazed by the allegations against him, reported Khaosod. According to Section 276 of the Thai Criminal Code, anyone found guilty of committing sexual intercourse through coercion or exploiting an individual’s inability to resist can face between four to twenty years in prison and a fine ranging from eighty thousand to four hundred thousand Baht. As the Phuket police continue their investigation, the case spotlights critical issues surrounding safety and the conduct of visitors in the tourist-driven island. This story is developing, and further details are expected as the investigation proceeds. -- 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand’s Casino Complex: 90% of Patrons Expected to be Locals File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand is poised to move forward with an ambitious entertainment complex project that includes a casino. According to the Finance Ministry, the majority of the casino’s patrons—up to 90%—are expected to be Thai locals. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1336473-thailand’s-casino-complex-90-of-patrons-expected-to-be-locals/

File photo courtesy: Wikipedia Thailand is poised to move forward with an ambitious entertainment complex project that includes a casino. According to the Finance Ministry, the majority of the casino’s patrons—up to 90%—are expected to be Thai locals. Public hearings are ongoing for the draft law governing this new venture, fulfilling constitutional requirements. Heading the initiative is caretaker Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat. A special House committee under his leadership has studied the feasibility and submitted its findings to the Cabinet, prompting the Finance Ministry to draft the necessary legislation. The study draws parallels with Macau, where casino gambling attracts at least 10% of the population, primarily locals. Applying this metric to Thailand, the committee projects that 37 million Thai residents could be potential casino visitors. With 11 million foreign tourists in Thailand in 2022, the committee anticipates a combined figure of 4.8 million potential gamblers, of which 3.7 million would be Thai residents. These projections appear realistic. According to a Finance Ministry source, 4.48 million Thais engaged in card gambling in 2021. It's anticipated that some of these Thai gamblers, who previously ventured to neighboring countries, would instead patronize local casinos once they open. The draft law assigns significant authority to the prime minister, who will enforce the law, and to the Entertainment Complex Policy Committee, chaired by the prime minister, which will manage complex-related policies. Companies seeking a concession must be either limited or public limited companies with at least 10 billion baht in registered capital. Each licence will have a 30-year validity, renewable for additional 10-year terms, and feature a 5 billion baht fee and an annual 1 billion baht renewal cost. For Thai patrons, the entrance fee to the casino will be capped at 5,000 baht per person, according to a Bangkok Post report. Thus, the project stands as a significant economic gamble with high-stakes expectations. -- 2024-08-26 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe