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Uyghur detainees in Thailand fear imminent deportation to China by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post A group of Uyghur men, detained in Thailand for more than 10 years, claim that the Thai government is planning to deport them to China, where they risk abuse and torture, according to activists. Senator Angkhana Neelapaijit, former head of the National Human Rights Commission, has urged Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to clarify any plans regarding their deportation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348629-uyghur-detainees-in-thailand-fear-imminent-deportation-to-china/

Kanchanaburi student faints after cannabis use at school event by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of MGR Online A 15 year old student from Dan Makham Tia district in Kanchanaburi province became unconscious after allegedly smoking cannabis at school. The provincial governor has ordered an investigation into the incident, which was initially reported by the local news page Kan News Agency, alleging that a senior student coerced a junior student into using cannabis during a National Children’s Day event. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348628-kanchanaburi-student-faints-after-cannabis-use-at-school-event/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod by Bright Choomanee A well-known photographer, 46 year old Thanakrit, was apprehended by the Metropolitan Investigation Bureau for distributing obscene images and videos of models on the subscription platform OnlyFans, reportedly earning over 2 million baht (US$57,590). The photographer, known by the nickname Ohm, has previously faced charges of obscenity. The arrest followed a complaint from a model, who alleged that the photographer had coerced her into participating and later discovered her images online. Yesterday, January 11, senior officials, including Police Lieutenant General Siam Boonsom, oversaw the operation. The arrest took place at Thanakrit’s residence in a notable village on Ekkachai Road, Bang Bon district, Bangkok. The accused was charged under Section 287 of the Criminal Code, which penalises those who produce, distribute, or display obscene materials. Further charges under the Computer Crime Act of 2007 were also levied. Thanakrit’s home doubled as a photography studio, where he allegedly captured and distributed lascivious content. Upon searching the premises with a court warrant from the Thonburi Criminal Court, police found evidence, including a Samsung smartphone and computer equipment. The devices contained numerous obscene images, some linked to his OnlyFans account, accessible to subscribers for a fee. Upon interrogation, Thanakrit admitted to operating on OnlyFans for approximately three years, generating significant income. The police have detained him for further legal proceedings at Bang Bon police station. Police Major General Theeradej Thamsutee, Head of the Investigation Bureau, urged caution among models and modelling agencies. He advised thorough discussions regarding contracts and shooting details, recommending bringing a companion to shoots to ensure safety, reported KhaoSod. He warned against trusting photographers without adequate verification, stressing the importance of safeguarding one’s future over financial incentives. Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In related news, Thai police arrested a 46 year old prominent photographer for selling explicit images of models on VK and OnlyFans, earning him hundreds of thousands of baht monthly. He was previously arrested in 2020 for lewd acts involving victims. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-13

Picture courtesy of MNRE Phuket by Bright Choomanee A recent Cabinet decision has lifted the restriction on construction above the 80-metre mark in Phuket, paving the way for increased single-building developments on the island’s hillsides. This change is expected to benefit owners of high-altitude land on the island. The approval of a rezoning proposal by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE) now permits development in Zone 6 of Phuket up to 140 metres above sea level. This zone includes most of the island but excludes coastal areas, the protected Nakkerd Range, and densely populated locations like Phuket Town. The resolution, published in the Government Gazette on December 13, came into effect on December 14 last year. Natthakrit Phonphet, Deputy Director of the MNRE Phuket office, explained that this change replaces a previous restriction from 2017, which had expired. The decision follows extensive public and private sector consultations, particularly benefiting landowners with high-altitude plots who previously faced building restrictions. Police specialist Rakkiat Deetphin from DPT Phuket explained that the main reason for allowing construction above the 80-metre limit was fairness. Many landowners felt their rights were violated as they paid taxes but were unable to utilise their land due to the previous restrictions. Rakkiat added that, unlike Phuket, only Koh Samui has a similar restriction, capping construction at 120 metres above sea level. The new regulations come with specific conditions. Land titles must have been issued before 2017, and only single structures are allowed. These buildings must not exceed six metres in height or cover more than 90 square metres, with 70% of the plot left as green space. Title holders must ensure that half of this area remains unpaved to support natural vegetation. Building restriction Natthakrit emphasised that not all areas deemed suitable will automatically be approved for construction if there are potential risks of flooding or landslides. Impact assessments conducted by the Phuket Provincial Office of the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning are mandatory, with specific criteria to meet regarding green spaces and single-building requirements. Maetapong Upatising, President of the Phuket Real Estate Association (P-REA), noted that property values above the 80-metre mark are expected to increase significantly due to the new opportunities for development. In Patong, land values have already risen to between 150 and 200 million baht (US$4.3 and 5.75 million), with areas slightly outside the town ranging from 6 to 8 million baht (US$172,770 to 230,360), depending on demand. Maetapong also highlighted that the new provisions will benefit luxury hotels and housing developments in higher elevations. However, he expressed concerns about developers who might not adhere to the law, stressing the importance of enforcement by local government to maintain a balanced landscape. Pakorn Waraphasakun, Director of DPT Phuket, reiterated that safety is paramount when approving construction above 80 metres. He highlighted potential environmental risks like landslides and flooding, urging that these issues be managed carefully to ensure sustainable development. Pakorn recommended incorporating slope protection in new constructions to mitigate risk. Kongsak Koophongsakorn, President of the Phuket Chamber of Commerce, did not comment directly on the new provisions but announced an upcoming seminar on the topic, emphasising the need for cautious development to prevent environmental degradation, reported The Phuket News. Phattanan Pisutwimol, former President of the P-REA, previously warned against unchecked development that could harm Phuket’s environment, which is vital for attracting tourists and investors. He stressed that while the new rules are intended to safeguard Phuket’s income sources, they might instead threaten them if not managed properly. Picture courtesy of MNRE Phuket Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-13

Phuket lifts building restriction above 80 metres for hillside development by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of MNRE Phuket A recent Cabinet decision has lifted the restriction on construction above the 80-metre mark in Phuket, paving the way for increased single-building developments on the island’s hillsides. This change is expected to benefit owners of high-altitude land on the island. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348626-phuket-lifts-building-restriction-above-80-metres-for-hillside-development/

Photographer arrested for obscene content on OnlyFans, earns over 2 million baht by Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A well-known photographer, 46 year old Thanakrit, was apprehended by the Metropolitan Investigation Bureau for distributing obscene images and videos of models on the subscription platform OnlyFans, reportedly earning over 2 million baht (US$57,590). The photographer, known by the nickname Ohm, has previously faced charges of obscenity. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348623-photographer-arrested-for-obscene-content-on-onlyfans-earns-over-2-million-baht/

Sudarat Urges Thaksin to Target Beneficiaries of Transnational Crime Networks Sudarat Keyuraphan. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Sudarat Keyuraphan, leader of the Thai Sang Thai Party, has urged the Thai government to take decisive action against transnational crime gangs exploiting Thailand as a gateway. Source: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348638-sudarat-urges-thaksin-to-target-beneficiaries-of-transnational-crime-networks/

Sudarat Keyuraphan. Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Sudarat Keyuraphan, leader of the Thai Sang Thai Party, has urged the Thai government to take decisive action against transnational crime gangs exploiting Thailand as a gateway. Her comments came amid concerns about the country's role as a hub for illicit activities, such as human trafficking and cross-border crime. Highlighting the case of Chinese actor Xing Xing, who was allegedly lured from Thailand to Myanmar by scammers, Sudarat stressed the impact these activities have on Thailand's image as a safe tourist destination. The online platform XiaoHongShu, popular among young Chinese, has seen over 100,000 posts questioning the safety of travelling to Thailand, potentially affecting Chinese tourism during the Lunar New Year period. Sudarat also pointed to incidents involving Thai nationals, including deaths and disappearances in Cambodia's Poi Pet city, and emphasised the need for urgent assistance for the thousands of Thais reportedly trapped by traffickers in the region. Amid these growing concerns, former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has claimed to have intelligence on the transnational crime groups operating in Myanmar and Cambodia. Sudarat urged the government to take advantage of Thaksin's knowledge and diplomatic ties with these countries to crack down on the crime syndicates. She called on Thaksin to help identify those in Thailand who might be benefiting from these illegal activities, particularly those linked to online gambling and fraudulent call centres, to better protect Thai citizens and restore the country's reputation, reported Thai Rath. -- 2025-01-13

Anutin Demands Severe Penalties for District Chief Corruption Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, has instructed the Permanent Secretary of the Interior to impose maximum penalties on a district chief implicated in a corruption scandal. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348640-anutin-demands-severe-penalties-for-district-chief-corruption/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, has instructed the Permanent Secretary of the Interior to impose maximum penalties on a district chief implicated in a corruption scandal. The district chief from Nuea Khlong District in Krabi, along with other officials, is under investigation following allegations of accepting bribes from contractors. In a statement on 12th January, Anutin emphasised the need for swift and stringent action to reassure the public. He directed Arsaith Sumpanrat, Permanent Secretary, and Chaiwat Junthirapong, Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration, to pursue the harshest disciplinary actions available within the ministry against the accused. The accused district chief and officials were arrested under a warrant issued by the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases. The case has drawn significant public attention and heightened calls for transparency and accountability. Given the seriousness of the allegations, Anutin suggested that merely reassigning the officials to other duties pending investigation might be insufficient. He insisted that investigations proceed quickly, with the possibility of suspending or dismissing the officials involved. This directive follows the 10th January arrests of the officials by teams from the National Anti-Corruption Commission, the Anti-Corruption Division, and the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission. Subsequently, the Director-General had already relocated the district chief to administrative duties outside of Krabi province, and an investigative committee has been formed to expedite the inquiry, reported Siam Rath. -- 2025-01-13

Udon Thani mother forces Thai-British girl into abuse by stepfather by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A 15 year old girl from Udon Thani province revealed that her biological mother forced her into a relationship with her stepfather, starting at the age of 11. This abuse continued for four years, coinciding with her biological father’s illness and subsequent death. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348631-udon-thani-mother-forces-thai-british-girl-into-abuse-by-stepfather/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal A 15 year old girl from Udon Thani province revealed that her biological mother forced her into a relationship with her stepfather, starting at the age of 11. This abuse continued for four years, coinciding with her biological father’s illness and subsequent death. Chalida Palamat, the head of the Pen Nueng Foundation, along with Udon Thani Social Development and Human Security officials, accompanied the girl and her 41 year old aunt, Nok, to report the case to Police Lieutenant Sueb Saksi Marasi at Mueang Udon Thani Police Station yesterday, January 10. The complaint alleged that the teenager girl was sexually abused by her 60 year old stepfather, Ong, with her mother’s consent. The abuse began when the girl was in 6th grade and continued until her father’s death. The girl’s aunt contacted Chalida, sharing video clips of the girl recounting her ordeal. The biological father, a 71 year old British national, had recently passed away, leaving his daughter feeling helpless. The girl explained that her stepfather initially groomed her by inappropriate touching and luring her into a room, despite her tears and fear. When she confided in her mother, she was told that the mother was aware and complicit in the plan. The girl, who is of mixed heritage, detailed how her stepfather would take her to hotels, and after each incident, her mother would reassure her that it was intentional. The mother instructed her to extract money from the stepfather, receiving amounts between 1,000 to 1,500 baht, which were handed over to the mother. This has raised suspicions of human trafficking. In addition, the girl’s aunt was questioned about whether the British father was aware of his wife’s affair. Initially, he was unaware, but later discovered it. Despite this, he continued to provide for the family, purchasing a house and several vehicles in the mother’s name, which were later mortgaged or sold to support a gambling habit. The final assault occurred just before the new year while the girl’s father was incapacitated at home. The teenage girl expressed her desire to escape and properly honour her deceased father, who passed away on January 4, while suffering from kidney failure. She questioned her mother’s love, feeling she was merely a means to an end. Chalida vowed to assist the girl, condemning the mother’s actions as inhumane, and pledged to coordinate with police to handle the father’s remains. Mother’s affair Meanwhile, Long, another family member, recounted that Natt, the mother, had married the British national and agreed to have a child after being promised his assets. Following his illness, she began an affair with Ong, an employee at a state enterprise, and had another child with him. The family learned of the abuse after the girl reached out, fearing for her safety and seeking guidance. After filing the complaint, the girl underwent a medical examination at Udon Thani Central Hospital. Her aunt, Nok, expressed anger towards Ong and Natt, demanding justice. The family, who were previously unaware of the situation, are prepared to support the girl, who has the choice of whom to live with. They also confirmed that Natt has a six year old son with Ong and alleged drug use, urging police to investigate, reported KhaoSod. Police are continuing their investigation and intend to summon Natt and Ong for questioning to proceed with legal action. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-13

American Man Saves Pattaya Woman in Bridge Rescue A tense scene unfolded in Pattaya on the evening of January 11, as a young woman attempted to jump from a pedestrian bridge, only to be rescued by a American bystander. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348589-american-man-saves-pattaya-woman-in-bridge-rescue/

Protests Threaten Return of Yingluck Shinawatra to Thailand Picture courtesy: Naewna A coalition led by the People’s Reform Network (PRN) vowed to mobilise protests against the return of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra to Thailand, echoing the previous efforts to oust her brother, Thaksin Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348606-protests-threaten-return-of-yingluck-shinawatra-to-thailand/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 13 January 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1348607-thailand-live-monday-13-january-2025/

Picture courtesy: Facebook 'Social Hunter' Bangkok Taxi Driver Slashes Passenger's Face in Violent Attack - video A taxi driver in Bangkok has been restrained by passers-by after allegedly slashing a passenger's face with a knife during a heated argument, leaving the passenger injured. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348603-bangkok-taxi-driver-slashes-passengers-face-in-violent-attack/

Protests Threaten Return of Yingluck Shinawatra to Thailand Picture courtesy: Naewna A coalition led by the People’s Reform Network (PRN) vowed to mobilise protests against the return of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra to Thailand, echoing the previous efforts to oust her brother, Thaksin Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348606-protests-threaten-return-of-yingluck-shinawatra-to-thailand/

Picture courtesy: Naewna A coalition led by the People’s Reform Network (PRN) vowed to mobilise protests against the return of former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra to Thailand, echoing the previous efforts to oust her brother, Thaksin Shinawatra. At a rally in Bangkok’s Democracy Monument, PRN leader Pichit Chaimongkol declared 2025 as the "Year of Reckoning" for what he termed "the Thaksin regime". He urged supporters to prepare for action if the former leader attempts a homecoming. The coalition, critical of the current government and its handling of corruption issues, presented two main demands: the resignation of Tawee Sodsong, the Justice Minister, over scandals involving allegiance with Thaksin, and Pongchai Chunhawachira, Deputy Prime Minister, for pushing unqualified appointments. In addition to these demands, the group opposes five key issues: the proposed MOU 44, new casino licences, online gambling, long-term 99-year land leases they believe compromise national interest, and the damage caused by a digital wallet initiative. They also urged support for Thailand’s Anti-Corruption Commission and the Medical Council, encouraging scrutiny of alleged misconduct linked to Thaksin’s health status. PRN plans a march to police headquarters and the Medical Council mid-January to demand transparency and accountability regarding Thaksin’s medical records. Picture courtesy: Naewna Pichit also warned of unrest should Thaksin fulfil his promise to bring Yingluck back by April. He claimed Yingluck would face the same protest actions as Thaksin did, stressing the need for close scrutiny on their political involvement. The former premier's alleged influence over state policies, despite stepping back from politics, is viewed by PRN as an overreach of power, and they plan to hold the government accountable amid allegations of policy manipulation. -- 2025-01-12

Bangkok Taxi Driver Slashes Passenger's Face in Violent Attack - video Picture courtesy: Facebook 'Social Hunter' A taxi driver in Bangkok has been restrained by passers-by after allegedly slashing a passenger's face with a knife during a heated argument, leaving the passenger injured. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348603-bangkok-taxi-driver-slashes-passengers-face-in-violent-attack/

Picture courtesy: Facebook 'Social Hunter' A taxi driver in Bangkok has been restrained by passers-by after allegedly slashing a passenger's face with a knife during a heated argument, leaving the passenger injured. On 11th January, a disturbing incident unfolded in Bangkok's bustling Silom district, where a taxi driver reportedly had an altercation with a passenger. According to reports from the “Social Hunter 2022” Facebook page, which first shared images and details of the event, the altercation escalated when the driver used a sharp weapon to slash the passenger's face. The incident left the passenger with serious injuries. Fortunately, other passengers and delivery riders passing by witnessed the commotion and quickly intervened. They subdued the taxi driver until police arrived and escorted all parties involved to the police station for further questioning. Picture courtesy: Facebook 'Social Hunter' The incident reported by “Social Hunter 2022” has sparked concerns among netizens, with calls for stricter measures and swifter action from authorities to prevent similar occurrences. Many have pointed out the potential threat to passenger safety, stating: "This poses a serious risk to customers. If there were no one to help, it could have been deadly. The punishment should be more severe due to the impact on the country's image. The driver's licence should be revoked for such dangerous actions." UPDATE: The Bangkok Post reported that the attack left a wound more than 10 centimetres long on the face. The injured man told reporters that the gash required 32 stitches. -- 2025-01-12

Thai Woman Arrested With Cocaine Smuggled from the UK Picture courtesy: Daily News Thai authorities have apprehended a woman involved in smuggling 206 grams of cocaine into Thailand from the United Kingdom. The arrest took place in Bang Lamung, Chonburi, with the drugs hidden within international mail parcels. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348535-thai-woman-arrested-with-cocaine-smuggled-from-the-uk/

Picture courtesy: Daily News Thai authorities have apprehended a woman involved in smuggling 206 grams of cocaine into Thailand from the United Kingdom. The arrest took place in Bang Lamung, Chonburi, with the drugs hidden within international mail parcels. The Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), alongside Naval Intelligence and the First Naval Area Command, conducted the operation. The investigation began on 6th January, as part of the Airport Interdiction Task Force’s efforts, leading them to a parcel from the UK containing 104 grams of cocaine addressed to a British male resident in Bang Lamung. Upon further investigation, on 8th January, the authorities confronted a Thai woman who attempted to collect the package. During questioning, she admitted being hired by the British man to retrieve the parcel. Subsequently, on 9th January, officers seized another parcel containing 102 grams of cocaine, similarly originating from the UK and addressed to the same recipient. The ONCB is compiling evidence to issue a warrant for the British national involved. Picture courtesy: Daily News These arrests highlight an ongoing trend at Thai airports, with five smuggling incidents in 2023 alone, involving a total of 512 grams of cocaine from the UK, disguised within various products such as protein powder cans and deodorant. It underscores the critical role of vigilant international cooperation and the resolve of Thai officials to curb drug trafficking effectively, reported Daily News. Picture courtesy: Daily News -- 2025-01-11

Pattaya Left Behind in Thailand's 'Premium' Tourism Upgrade Strategy File photo ANALYSIS In a move causing a stir among the tourism community, Thailand's Prime Minister recently unveiled plans to elevate Phuket to "premium" tourist status, seemingly leaving Pattaya in the shadows. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348532-pattaya-left-behind-in-thailands-premium-tourism-upgrade-strategy/

File photo ANALYSIS In a move causing a stir among the tourism community, Thailand's Prime Minister recently unveiled plans to elevate Phuket to "premium" tourist status, seemingly leaving Pattaya in the shadows. This decision positions Phuket as a primary international hub, celebrated for hosting significant tourist events and benefiting from substantial private sector investment. This strategic push is aimed at capitalising on the thousands of tourists flocking directly to Phuket and bolstering its appeal through projects tackling urban challenges like traffic congestion, waste management, and organised crime, writes Barry Kenyon for Pattaya Mail Instructions have been issued to local Phuket authorities to initiate innovative solutions for these urban issues, like community-led recycling efforts and promoting sustainable tourism. The president of the Phuket Tourism Association has joyfully embraced this designation, seeing it as a pathway to enhanced global attractiveness and economic growth. However, Pattaya, a long-standing competitor to Phuket in the tourism sector, finds itself conspicuously missing from this "premium" narrative despite boasting many similar attributes. The term "premium," often thrown around in tourism circuits, lacks formal definition and has been criticised for its ambiguity. This isn't the first time the label has caused a fuss. Back in 2018, Pattaya had its moment of triumph when Democrat Party deputy leader Korn Chatikavanij expressed a vision for the city to become a "premium" resort destination—albeit to rally support for the party's local election candidates. Pattaya's exclusion from the new "premium" label should perhaps be taken with a pinch of salt. The city can effortlessly hold its own against Phuket, both in terms of tourist draw, bustling events, and tackling the same urban issues concerning traffic and waste. The notion of "premium" tourism has faced scrutiny from figures like former Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who urged a move away from low-cost tourism to lure in higher-spending visitors. In light of this, Pattaya's stakeholders might find solace in ignoring labels and continuing to focus on the tangible qualities that have established the city as a staple on Thailand's tourist map. Perhaps it's time to retire the vague "premium" tag to the realms of marketing, alongside ice cream promotions and exclusive visa privileges. Pattaya remains a vibrant, competitive destination, with or without the label, offering a unique blend of attractions capable of captivating a global audience. -- 2025-01-11

FILE - Tributes from supporters rest at a memorial under a portrait of team owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha outside Leicester City Football Club, Monday Oct. 29 2018, in Leicester, England. . (AP Photo/Rui Vieira, File) The family of Leicester City owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, who tragically perished in a helicopter crash in 2018, has launched a £2.15 billion (approximately 94.4 billion Thai Baht) lawsuit against Italian helicopter manufacturer Leonardo SpA. The lawsuit, one of the largest fatal accident claims in British history, claims significant compensation for alleged loss of earnings and damages, asserting that a critical design flaw led to the fatal accident. Vichai, at 60, had been a pivotal figure in the football world, purchasing Leicester City Football Club in 2010 and spearheading its historic Premier League victory in 2016. His legacy also extends to his successful business empire, King Power, which transformed the duty-free shopping scene in Thailand. The catastrophic accident that took Vichai’s life occurred on October 27, 2018, just outside King Power Stadium in Leicester, following a match. Among the five victims were pilot Eric Swaffer, his partner Izabela Roza Lechowicz, and Vichai’s staff members Nusara Suknamai and Kaveporn Punpare. A detailed investigation by the United Kingdom's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (AAIB) in 2023 highlighted a tail rotor failure of the Leonardo AW169 helicopter as the cause of the crash. This report disclosed that the pilot faced insurmountable challenges in regaining control due to this failure. Despite the AAIB’s confirmation that the helicopter met all regulatory standards, the report pinpointed a seized component in the tail rotor, identified by Leonardo as critical in the design phase, as the trigger for the devastating accident. Picture courtesy: Daily Mail Contradicting Leonardo's assurances regarding the helicopter's safety, the Srivaddhanaprabha family's legal action argues for the liability of the manufacturer. The family claims Leonardo neglected to integrate a crucial design modification, which had been implemented in other helicopter models, potentially preventing the disastrous outcome. Additionally, they allege that Leonardo failed to appropriately warn their customers or regulatory authorities about the significant risks involved. In a statement, Vichai’s son, Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, who succeeded his father in leading both Leicester City and King Power, expressed his disillusionment, articulating that his father’s trust in Leonardo had been tragically misplaced. This legal démarche is regarded as a critical step for ensuring accountability and enhancing safety for other operators reliant on Leonardo's helicopters. British aviation law experts from Stewarts are representing the family, alongside renowned barristers Philip Shepherd KC and Harry Steinberg KC. Stewarts partner Peter Neenan emphasised the broader implications of the case, underscoring the necessity for confidence among global operators of these helicopters, which serve crucial roles, including for military and emergency services, reported Dail News Online, Bangkok Post, Agencies. -- 2025-01-11