webfact

Picture courtesy: Daily News In a significant crackdown, Thailand's Department of Special Investigation (DSI) arrested a Nigerian national believed to be a central figure in a major fraud network involving horse accounts across the country, causing damages estimated at over 50 million baht. The operation, dubbed "Operation Black Horse Down," targeted a gang combining Thai and Nigerian nationals who orchestrated romance scams and opened horse accounts nationwide for various criminal activities. This network has been linked to call centre scams, romance fraud, and drug-related offences, with an estimated 1,200 million baht in transactions and over 1,000 horse accounts involved. Following a criminal court warrant for eight suspects, on 8 October 2024, the DSI joined forces with Thailand’s Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) and forensic agencies to raid five locations. Six suspects, including Nigerian and Thai nationals, were detained in connection with these fraudulent activities. On 13 November 2024, DSI investigators expanded their inquiry and discovered that Mr. Christian (surname withheld), a Nigerian national and the alleged leader of the network, was detained by the Bureau of Immigration Police. Acting on the court warrant, the DSI charged him with fraud, including impersonation, computer fraud, and money laundering. Picture courtesy: Daily News As the investigation continues, DSI is collaborating with AMLO to trace the financial routes and seize related assets linked to the network. Preliminary findings suggest additional accomplices, both Thai and foreign nationals, are still at large. The DSI also issued a public warning about the severe legal consequences of opening horse accounts, which can lead to criminal charges. Under Thailand’s new Cybercrime Act of 2023, individuals aiding fraud operations may face up to three years in prison, a fine of up to 300,000 baht, or both. The DSI encourages the public to report fraudulent activities via their website (www.dsi.go.th) under the “Report Fraud” section, to support legal actions against offenders, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-11-14

Thaksin Delivers First Speech in 18 Years, Denies Interfering with PM Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 13 November at Wat Sri Nakaram in Udon Thani’s Kumphawapi district, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made his first public speech in 18 years, urging voters to remember his name if they cannot recall Srawut’s when voting. He also reassured the crowd that he is not influencing Prime Minister Paetongtarn "Ing" Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343489-thaksin-delivers-first-speech-in-18-years-denies-interfering-with-pm/

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath On 13 November at Wat Sri Nakaram in Udon Thani’s Kumphawapi district, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra made his first public speech in 18 years, urging voters to remember his name if they cannot recall Srawut’s when voting. He also reassured the crowd that he is not influencing Prime Minister Paetongtarn "Ing" Shinawatra. In his speech, Thaksin praised Ing, saying he had seen leadership potential in her from a young age. He also expressed optimism about achieving the government’s minimum wage increase target to THB 400. Addressing the crowd of red-shirt supporters, Thaksin spoke warmly of his fondness for Udon Thani residents, recalling that many owned buffaloes when he left Thailand 18 years ago. Thaksin shared personal reflections, saying that his years abroad required resilience and meditation to stay balanced. He committed to supporting the local Buddhist community and encouraged people to focus on family well-being, steer clear of excessive gambling, and avoid debt traps. He explained how Ing has been dedicated to addressing household debt and poverty. Thaksin denied any interference in Ing’s political decisions, describing his approach as respectful of her independence. Instead, he focuses on providing guidance and support. Thaksin reiterated his strong stance against the drug trade, vowing to address it in collaboration with the police force, aiming to end corruption in police appointments and to eliminate illegal drugs from Thai communities. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath He reflected on the significant changes Thailand has undergone and expressed a commitment to improving education and job opportunities. He urged the public to embrace local development, particularly in rural areas, to combat poverty and empower the population. With confidence in the ruling coalition, Thaksin pledged to continue his involvement in Thai politics in a supportive capacity and affirmed his commitment to the Thai people. As he concluded, Thaksin humorously described his self-appointed role as “Supervisor of All Issues,” vowing to visit Udon Thani again, reported Siam Rath. -- 2024-11-14

Indians Ignore Police Summons After Pattaya Beach Brawl Picture courtesy Superball Thongma News via FM91 Recently, a group of seven Indian men failed to attend a scheduled police questioning following their alleged assault on three others, including the organiser of a Diwali festival on Pattaya beach, Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343487-indians-ignore-police-summons-after-pattaya-beach-brawl/

Picture courtesy Superball Thongma News via FM91 Recently, a group of seven Indian men failed to attend a scheduled police questioning following their alleged assault on three others, including the organiser of a Diwali festival on Pattaya beach, Thailand. This incident occurred during the festival held between 8th November and 10th November. The lawyer representing the victims has confirmed that the individuals in question did not respond to official summons issued by the authorities. The Diwali celebration was a collaborative effort by three Indian associations in Pattaya, designed to bring together both Indian locals and tourists for a joyous event. However, the festive atmosphere turned sour on the final day as, amidst clearing up, the event organisers found themselves unexpectedly accosted by this group. A physical confrontation ensued, during which the primary target appeared to be Mr. Dio Singh, a prominent figure within the Chonburi Indian Association. Mr. Singh, who organised the event, recounted the unexpected violence, stating the aggressors surrounded and punched them repeatedly. Despite police intervention, the skirmish escalated when additional individuals joined the assailants in a later altercation. Remarkably, Mr. Singh noted that one of his attackers had previously been seen taking photos and videos of the festival, leading him to suspect a premeditated motive. Picture courtesy Superball Thongma News via FM91 As a result of this incident, Mr. Singh was adamant about pursuing legal action against the suspects, citing an unprovoked attack. The violence also inadvertently affected bystanders attempting to intervene, including women and children, highlighting the reckless nature of the assault. The victims have, with their lawyer's assistance, provided surveillance footage to aid the ongoing investigation. The Pattaya City police are continuing their inquiry into this matter, seeking to understand the motivations behind the attack and ensure justice is served, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-14

Four Alleged Ugandan and Tanzanian Prostitutes Arrested in Patong By Goongnang Suksawat Phuket – Three Ugandans and one Tanzanian national were arrested on the Bangla Road in Patong on Wednesday (November 13th). FFull story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343486-four-alleged-ugandan-and-tanzanian-prostitutes-arrested-in-patong/

Phuket – Three Ugandans and one Tanzanian national were arrested on the Bangla Road in Patong on Wednesday (November 13th). Phuket Immigration told the Phuket Express that they arrested four alleged foreign prostitutes. They were identified by police only as Ms. Kembabazi, 34, Ms. Nancige, 27, and Ms. Ajambo, 22. All of them are Ugandan nationals. The other is Ms. Sangana, 29, a Tanzanian national. Officers saw them when they were talking to foreign men and were allegedly offering sexual services to those foreign men. Officers then arrested all four of them. The suspects also reportedly later admitted to the police that they were prostitutes. Full story: THE PHUKET EXPRESS -- 2024-11-14

Thai man arrested over death threat to kindergarten students in Isaan The suspect is in the whit shirt. | Photo via Matichon Police arrested a Thai man in Nonthaburi province near Bangkok yesterday after he posted a death threat against kindergarten students in the Isaan province of Maha Sarakham on a Facebook group. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343468-thai-man-arrested-over-death-threat-to-kindergarten-students-in-isaan/

Thaksin's Hospital Stay Under Scrutiny as Agency Delays Inquiry File photo courtesy: Facebook Thairath TV Thaksin Shinawatra's controversial six-month hospital stay has caught the attention of Thailand's National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), but a formal inquiry isn't likely until February, according to Jakkrit Tanlert, an assistant NACC secretary-general. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343470-thaksins-hospital-stay-under-scrutiny-as-agency-delays-inquiry/

Supreme Court Blocks Ex-Police Gen Surachate's Bid to Overturn Dismissal File photo for reference only In a decisive turn of events today, high-ranking police officer Pol Gen Surachate Hakparn suffered a blow to his hopes of reinstatement within the police force, after a strong majority in the Supreme Administrative Court rejected his appeal against his dismissal. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343475-supreme-court-blocks-ex-police-gen-surachates-bid-to-overturn-dismissal/

to continue: Thailand Live Thursday 14 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1343463-thailand-live-thursday-14-november-2024/

Shocking cruelty: Child abuse claims haunt Chiang Mai orphanage Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The Social Development and Human Security Ministry (MSDHS) is set to revoke the licence of an orphanage foundation in Chiang Mai following allegations of child abuse. Minister Varawut Silpa-archa announced the decision after a former caregiver reported that employees at the orphanage had been physically punishing children aged three to six for several years. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343479-shocking-cruelty-child-abuse-claims-haunt-chiang-mai-orphanage/

Pattaya Wind Turbine Project Abandoned; New Landmark Proposed A 95 million baht renewable energy project in Pattaya has been abandoned after years of neglect, leaving its wind turbines in a state of disrepair. Initially intended to alleviate energy shortages and boost tourism, this once-ambitious project has now become a symbol of squandered potential and oversight. Picture courtesy: Opt News Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343462-pattaya-wind-turbine-project-abandoned-new-landmark-proposed/

Funai Factory Closure Leaves 831 Jobless, Workers Await Compensation Picture courtesy: Kapook Over 800 employees have been left in limbo following the sudden shutdown of Funai (Thailand) Co's factory in Nakhon Ratchasima. This development follows a bankruptcy plan approval for its Japanese parent company, Funai Electric, on October 24th. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343474-funai-factory-closure-leaves-831-jobless-workers-await-compensation/

Picture courtesy: Kapook Over 800 employees have been left in limbo following the sudden shutdown of Funai (Thailand) Co's factory in Nakhon Ratchasima. This development follows a bankruptcy plan approval for its Japanese parent company, Funai Electric, on October 24th. The Thai subsidiary declared its inability to import essential production materials, leading to its closure on November 14th, as mentioned in a statement from their facility in Pak Chong district dated November 8th. In response to this, local authorities from the Pak Chong district office, the Nakhon Ratchasima provincial labour office, and the provincial security office have set up registration booths to assist laid-off workers in filing for benefits. On Wednesday, a large number of former employees arrived at the factory seeking assistance, yet none had received compensation at that time. Apichart Suethuen, a senior production manager among the 831 affected workers, noted Wednesday as their last working day. He mentioned that all employees would seek unemployment benefits, but the company admitted it couldn't afford immediate payouts. One worker, Pucharas, shared her experience, having worked at Funai for 19 years. She received a notice of 190,000 baht in compensation, yet details on the payment timeline remained unclear. Initially, the company had promised compensation within 90 days. Pucharas and others demanded adherence to this timeline, stressing their financial obligations and difficulties in finding new jobs, especially for older workers. The unresolved situation, including failure to receive legal compensations and rumours of insufficient company funds, has left the 831 workers anxious and frustrated. Many have threatened to approach the provincial labour office if the promised payments are not made within the stipulated period. The abrupt factory closure starkly underscores the challenges workers face amidst corporate financial collapses, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-11-13

Thaksin's Hospital Stay Under Scrutiny as Agency Delays Inquiry File photo courtesy: Facebook Thairath TV Thaksin Shinawatra's controversial six-month hospital stay has caught the attention of Thailand's National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), but a formal inquiry isn't likely until February, according to Jakkrit Tanlert, an assistant NACC secretary-general. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343470-thaksins-hospital-stay-under-scrutiny-as-agency-delays-inquiry/

File photo courtesy: Facebook Thairath TV Thaksin Shinawatra's controversial six-month hospital stay has caught the attention of Thailand's National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), but a formal inquiry isn't likely until February, according to Jakkrit Tanlert, an assistant NACC secretary-general. The hospital arrangement is under suspicion as a possible ruse to avoid prison time, raising questions of privilege and propriety. Despite setting up an ad hoc committee to gather evidence, the NACC has hit a roadblock. Information from Police Hospital, where Thaksin stayed supposedly as a critically ill patient, is scant. Beyond receiving two million baht in hospital bills, the committee is waiting for detailed disclosures on Thaksin’s health status and medical treatments. This delay occurs against the backdrop of public demand for transparency. The Network of Students and People for Thailand Reform questioned the apparent leniency afforded to Thaksin, especially following an eight-year sentence for abuse of power, later reduced to one year by royal pardon. His stay at Police Hospital, thought to be orchestrated to evade prison cells, remains clouded in secrecy under the guise of privacy concerns. Meanwhile, Thaksin, the influential figure within the Pheu Thai Party, has returned from 17 years abroad and recently visited Udorn Thani. There, he rallied support for Pheu Thai candidate Saravut Petpanomporn in the upcoming provincial race against rival Khanisorn Khurirang, scheduled for 24th November. Udorn Thani, a stronghold of the Red Shirt movement and pro-Pheu Thai sympathisers, largely backed Thaksin’s candidates in the previous general elections. This political mobilisation highlights Thaksin's enduring influence in Thai politics, as the nation awaits the graft agency's decision. Until then, the matter of his hospitalisation and justice remains unresolved, fuelling debate over fairness and corruption within the system, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-13

Pattaya Wind Turbine Project Abandoned; New Landmark Proposed Picture courtesy: Opt News A 95 million baht renewable energy project in Pattaya has been abandoned after years of neglect, leaving its wind turbines in a state of disrepair. Initially intended to alleviate energy shortages and boost tourism, this once-ambitious project has now become a symbol of squandered potential and oversight. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343462-pattaya-wind-turbine-project-abandoned-new-landmark-proposed/

Picture courtesy: Opt News A 95 million baht renewable energy project in Pattaya has been abandoned after years of neglect, leaving its wind turbines in a state of disrepair. Initially intended to alleviate energy shortages and boost tourism, this once-ambitious project has now become a symbol of squandered potential and oversight. Back in 2006, Pattaya Municipality, in partnership with Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi, initiated the installation of wind turbines and solar panels on Koh Larn, just off Pattaya's coast. The objective was to generate 200 kilowatts of electricity to power wastewater systems and streetlights on the island. Plans also included crafting a control centre and a ray fish-shaped tourism exhibition building. Picture courtesy: Opt News However, this promising endeavour soon hit hurdles. With 45 wind turbines poised to produce clean energy, the system demanded extensive maintenance. Sadly, the project went neglected, resulting in non-functional turbines. By 2015, the facility was completely deserted, infrastructure decaying where it stood. Recognising the venture's failure, Pattaya authorities are now pivoting towards repurposing the site as a tourist destination. Offering stunning views of the sea and Koh Larn, the area remains a popular choice for tourists seeking Instagram-worthy backdrops. The city aims to remodel the site, preserving the turbines as an evocative visual feature without linking them to energy production. Deputy Mayor Manot Nongyai acknowledged maintenance issues led to the project's demise. He outlined plans to transform the site into a tourist "check-in" point, enhancing its natural allure while renovating the turbines aesthetically. The design proposal for the new landmark is nearly ready, slated for council presentation soon. If approved, the redevelopment will shift the narrative from failed energy project to significant tourist attraction, revitalising Pattaya and Koh Larn's appeal, reported Pattaya Mail. -- 2024-11-13

British man arrested for selling drugs to foreign tourists in Chiang Mai by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 3 Chiang Mai Immigration officers observed the Englishman, identified only as Daniel, displaying suspicious behaviour. Daniel was a partner in a cannabis shop on Chang Moi Road in the province. The main owner of the shop was a Thai national who legally registered the store. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343422-british-man-arrested-for-selling-drugs-to-foreign-tourists-in-chiang-mai/

Chiang Mai Immigration officers observed the Englishman, identified only as Daniel, displaying suspicious behaviour. Daniel was a partner in a cannabis shop on Chang Moi Road in the province. The main owner of the shop was a Thai national who legally registered the store. In addition to advising customers about cannabis, Daniel was found to be promoting his drugs to them. He had secretly sold drugs for more than six months before his arrest yesterday, November 12. Officers searched Daniel’s backpack and accommodation, confiscating various types of drugs, including 21.61 grammes of crystal meth, 10 ecstasy pills, 6.56 grammes of ketamine, and 10.10 grammes of cocaine. The Superintendent of the provincial immigration office, Surachai Iamphueng, reported to Channel 7 that officers also suspect Daniel of smuggling cannabis from Thailand to foreign countries. Further investigation will be conducted to verify this suspicion. There is no report on whether Daniel’s Thai business partner was involved in the criminal activity. Police have not planned to summon the Thai national for questioning, according to Channel 7’s report. Daniel is charged under Section 66 of the Narcotics Act for possessing less than 100 grammes of drugs for sale. The penalty includes imprisonment from five years to life and a fine of 50,000 to 500,000 baht. He will be deported from the country and banned for 10 years after receiving his punishment. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Channel 3 Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-11-13

Thais in Los Angeles Protest Against PM Paetongtarn’s Visit Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV Thais in Los Angeles expressed discontent during Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's visit. Onlookers were taken aback when the protest unfolded, marking an eventful moment during her trip abroad. Shared widely online, the protest captured attention far beyond LA. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343410-thais-in-los-angeles-protest-against-pm-paetongtarn’s-visit/

Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV Thais in Los Angeles expressed discontent during Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's visit. Onlookers were taken aback when the protest unfolded, marking an eventful moment during her trip abroad. Shared widely online, the protest captured attention far beyond LA. Paetongtarn's visit to the United States began as a diplomatic endeavour. Arriving in Los Angeles on 11th November, she aimed to build connections, boost economic ties, and engage with the Thai expatriate community. Her schedule included significant meetings, but it was the protest that drew particular focus. Nonetheless, Paetongtarn posted optimistically on Instagram during her visit. She shared her vision for Thailand, where fresh produce and modern transport systems would become readily available, reflecting her ambition for Thailand to become a regional logistics hub. Despite the protest, Paetongtarn continued her official duties undeterred. She met ambassadors and consuls-general to solidify Thailand's diplomatic presence. She also connected with the US's Thai community at a local temple, where she acknowledged and accepted a donation of $30,000 from community members to assist flood victims back home. Further, Paetongtarn seized the opportunity to meet US business leaders and representatives from the Motion Picture Association. These discussions aimed to attract investments and promote Thailand's film industry projected to bring in over 4 billion baht in 2024, reflecting a robust commitment to her country's "soft power" initiatives. As Paetongtarn departed for Lima, Peru, to attend the Apec Economic Leaders’ Meeting, the protest remained a notable aspect of her international engagement. Her visit, though marked by demonstration, underscored the complexities of leading a nation on the global stage, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-13

Thai Lawyer Challenges Central Bank Board Chairman Appointment Picture courtesy: Naew Na In a recent twist impacting Thailand's central banking landscape, Mr Chow Meekhuad, a Bangkok-based lawyer, has raised concerns over the eligibility of Kittiratt Na Ranong as the new chairman of the Bank of Thailand's board. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343409-thai-lawyer-challenges-central-bank-board-chairman-appointment/

Picture courtesy: Naew Na In a recent twist impacting Thailand's central banking landscape, Mr Chow Meekhuad, a Bangkok-based lawyer, has raised concerns over the eligibility of Kittiratt Na Ranong as the new chairman of the Bank of Thailand's board. Chow's assertions, aired through a Facebook post, challenge Kittiratt's qualifications, pointing out his past role as an adviser to former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, suggesting this compromises his candidacy. Chow's argument revolves around the Bank of Thailand Act, B.E. 2551, which necessitates that individuals holding political roles wait at least a year before being considered for non-political positions, such as that of the central bank chairman. Despite Kittiratt's adviser position technically not being a political office, Chow argues that responsibilities as outlined in the Prime Minister’s Office Order No. 214/2566, effectively equate to political service. Kittiratt ceased his advisory role on 14th August 2024, coinciding with the dismissal of Prime Minister Srettha by the Constitutional Court for unrelated reasons. This timeline falls short of the one-year separation required by law before assuming non-political roles, according to Chow’s interpretation. The selection of Kittiratt was conducted by a seven-member committee, a process now under scrutiny due to Chow's allegations of legal non-compliance. He is urging for a lawsuit against the committee, asserting their deliberate choice of an unqualified candidate endangers the apolitical integrity mandated by governing statutes. This legal contention is prompting discussions on the balance of political and institutional influence in Thailand's economic oversight and raises broader questions about procedural adherence and political neutrality within the country's financial institutions. The outcome may significantly impact future appointments and procedural frameworks within Thailand's monetary circles, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-11-13