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Fake Electricity Authority Call Center Scams Victim for 1 Million Baht Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In Sakhon Nakhon, a man was conned out of over 1 million baht by scammers pretending to be electricity officials. The perpetrators tricked him into clicking a link and facial scanning, causing his life savings to vanish. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351999-fake-electricity-authority-call-center-scams-victim-for-1-million-baht/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In Sakhon Nakhon, a man was conned out of over 1 million baht by scammers pretending to be electricity officials. The perpetrators tricked him into clicking a link and facial scanning, causing his life savings to vanish. On 12th February, a group posing as electricity board officials contacted the victim under the pretext of upgrading his meter to a digital one. Alone at home, he was convinced to follow their instructions, which included adding them on Line, video calling, and scanning his face three times while inputting his ATM details. Within moments of the scan, all money was extracted from his bank accounts, totalling approximately 1,146,651 baht. The situation was exacerbated as it coincided with a public holiday, Makha Bucha Day, delaying any immediate bank action. The victim’s daughter, Jiraphan, shared the ordeal online, urging public awareness. Despite reporting the incident to the Vanornivas police in Sakhon Nakhon, there’s uncertainty about the recovery of the stolen funds. The family highlights the bank's hesitance to freeze the accounts swiftly, emphasising the need for an official police document. This scam reflects a trend of fraudulent schemes preying on unsuspecting citizens. Victims and their families are calling for stricter protective measures from banks and law enforcement, reported Thai Rath. -- 2025-02-17

Burapa Bike Week: Bikers Parade Through Pattaya's Streets Picture courtesy: Pattaya Mail On February 15th, a spectacular parade of bikers flooded through Pattaya Beach, energizing the city and marking the beginning of the 28th Burapa Pattaya Bike Week under the theme “The Way of Life Never War.” This annual celebration brings together motorcycle enthusiasts from all walks of life, promoting camaraderie, safety, and a shared passion for biking. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351998-burapa-bike-week-bikers-parade-through-pattayas-streets/

Picture courtesy: Pattaya Mail On February 15th, a spectacular parade of bikers flooded through Pattaya Beach, energizing the city and marking the beginning of the 28th Burapa Pattaya Bike Week under the theme “The Way of Life Never War.” This annual celebration brings together motorcycle enthusiasts from all walks of life, promoting camaraderie, safety, and a shared passion for biking. The colourful convoy, comprising hundreds of bikers, took off from the Eastern National Sports Training Center on Soi Chaiyapruek 2. With engines roaring, the parade journeyed down Sukhumvit Road, carefully hugging the left lane, before turning onto North Pattaya Road. Riders enjoyed scenic vistas along Pattaya Beach, passing landmarks like the Dusit Thani Pattaya Hotel. Continuing through the iconic Walking Street, the bikers then cruised onto Thappraya Road towards the Machanu Intersection. A striking view of Jomtien Beach greeted them as they turned onto Ayakan Road (Na Jomtien), eventually looping back via Sukhumvit Road to their starting point. This grand procession not only celebrated the unifying spirit of the biker community but also aimed to boost Pattaya’s tourism sector and contribute positively to Thailand’s broader economy. By attracting niche tourism markets, the event underscores Pattaya's diverse travel offerings, from its vibrant nightlife to serene beaches. Besides the vibrant display of motorcycle culture, Burapa Bike Week emphasises safe riding practices, fostering a secure and positive environment for enthusiasts. The success of this parade reinforces Pattaya’s commitment to sustainable tourism, ensuring that such events continue to attract visitors and create lasting memories while supporting the local economy, reported Pattaya Mail. -- 2025-02-17

Thailand Urged to Investigate Criminal Use of Satellite Internet Wikipedia file photo for reference only. A Thai parliament member has urged the government to establish a working group to investigate the potential criminal misuse of low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity. This comes amid concerns that call centre gangs operating on Thailand's borders might exploit satellite internet to sustain their illegal activities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351993-thailand-urged-to-investigate-criminal-use-of-satellite-internet/

Wikipedia file photo for reference only. A Thai parliament member has urged the government to establish a working group to investigate the potential criminal misuse of low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite connectivity. This comes amid concerns that call centre gangs operating on Thailand's borders might exploit satellite internet to sustain their illegal activities. The closure of ground-based telecom networks has been a primary strategy for disconnecting these gangs from internet access. However, Takorn Tantasith of the Thai Sang Thai Party warns that resilient satellite connections could undermine these efforts. He pointed specifically to networks operated by major satellite companies OneWeb and Starlink, both of which have expansive global coverage that includes Thailand. OneWeb's network consists of 648 satellites, while Starlink, known for its extensive deployment, operates around 6,000 satellites worldwide, serving continents and regions including North and South America, Europe, Australia, parts of Africa, and across Asia. Importantly, Starlink's use of Ka and Ku frequency bands facilitates robust internet connectivity via portable signal-receiving equipment. Takorn emphasized that even if terrestrial internet is severed, neighbouring countries could still exploit LEO satellite networks. As such, he called for an immediate governmental study into these satellite systems' potential impacts on national security and crime prevention efforts. Government efforts, which include cutting off electricity and internet in certain border zones and limiting oil sales, have been previously praised by Takorn. In fact, last year, Thai authorities, including the Digital Economy and Society (DES) Ministry, confiscated 58 Starlink satellite equipment sets intended for use by fraudsters. Currently, there's a significant push to clamp down on such illicit satellite use, with the DES Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong noting that measures to disrupt illegal online activities have led criminals to modify their tactics. This includes removing unauthorised signal towers and cross-border communication cables to stay beneath the radar of law enforcement. This call to action signals the need for enhanced regulatory oversight and technological strategies to prevent criminal exploitation of satellite internet, ensuring the sustainability of Thailand's anti-crime initiatives along its borders, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-17

Government Unfazed by Calls for Dissolution Amid Charter Debate Thai Government house. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The Pheu Thai-led government has dismissed opposition calls for a House dissolution following failed attempts to deliberate changes to the 2017 constitution. Opposition People's Party leader, Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, urged dissolution after joint sittings collapsed last week due to a lack of quorum, highlighting perceived disunity within the coalition. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351992-government-unfazed-by-calls-for-dissolution-amid-charter-debate/

Thai Government house. File photo courtesy: Wikipedia The Pheu Thai-led government has dismissed opposition calls for a House dissolution following failed attempts to deliberate changes to the 2017 constitution. Opposition People's Party leader, Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, urged dissolution after joint sittings collapsed last week due to a lack of quorum, highlighting perceived disunity within the coalition. Pheu Thai MP Sutin Klungsang countered that differing opinions are typical and do not signal instability within the coalition. "Despite the current impasse, it's business as usual, and Pheu Thai continues to effectively lead the government," he stated. Anusorn Iamsa-ard, another Pheu Thai list MP, supported this view, asserting that the government remains committed to serving its full four-year term. He dismissed the dissolution calls as an overreaction to rumours purported by the opposition. The quorum failures occurred during sessions intended to discuss amendments to Section 256 of the constitution, a key hurdle in the charter rewrite process. Opposition leader Natthaphong attributed these failures to coalition disunity, but Pheu Thai maintains it will move forward with its mandate. To resolve the stalemate, Pheu Thai plans to petition Thailand's Constitutional Court. They seek clarity on whether a public referendum is necessary before initiating the charter drafting process. The court’s new ruling is anticipated to guide the path forward, particularly given different interpretations of a 2021 court ruling on the matter. Government MPs remain divided over the need for a referendum, due to ambiguous language in the previous court ruling. Pheu Thai's legal team is actively preparing arguments to gain parliamentary support for a new court ruling, clarifying the process. This will potentially clear the way for further debate on charter rewrite bills submitted by both Pheu Thai and the People's Party. Pheu Thai's stance indicates steadfast confidence in their leadership and ability to navigate through the legislative challenges, reaffirming their commitment to maintaining both the coalition and their legislative agenda, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-17

Thai Court Approves Thaksin's ASEAN Trip to Brunei File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's Criminal Court has granted former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra permission to travel to Brunei to participate in ASEAN meetings on February 18-19. This marks the second occasion he has been allowed to leave Thailand recently, following his release on bail with a 5-million-baht surety. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351990-thai-court-approves-thaksins-asean-trip-to-brunei/

File photo courtesy: Thai Rath Thailand's Criminal Court has granted former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra permission to travel to Brunei to participate in ASEAN meetings on February 18-19. This marks the second occasion he has been allowed to leave Thailand recently, following his release on bail with a 5-million-baht surety. Thaksin will attend the meetings as an adviser to Malaysia, the current ASEAN chair. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has appointed Thaksin to informally advise on ASEAN matters, paving the way for his visit to Brunei. However, Thaksin's requests to extend his visit to include Vietnam and Cambodia during the same period were denied. The court cited the lack of formal invitations from the respective governments as a key reason for rejecting these additional travel requests. Under the terms of his bail, Thaksin is barred from leaving Thailand without explicit permission. He faces charges related to lese-majeste and computer crime, arising from an interview conducted in South Korea in 2015, with witness testimonies scheduled for July this year. The court's decision was reportedly influenced by an official invitation from Malaysia's Prime Minister arranged through Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This mirrors a previous trip facilitated for consultations with Mr. Anwar in Malaysia from February 2-3. Thaksin submitted his latest travel request on February 13, followed by a court hearing on Friday where both Thaksin and Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa provided testimony. The court stipulated that Thaksin must report back within three days of his return to Thailand. The court declined Thaksin's request to visit Vietnam after he cited invitations from business associates rather than the Vietnamese government. A personal invitation from Cambodia's former Prime Minister Hun Sen was similarly deemed insufficient for court approval. These developments illustrate the stringent conditions surrounding Thaksin's bail and highlight the ongoing scrutiny of his activities as he navigates his legal and diplomatic engagements, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-17

Thai PM Paetongtarn Highlights Advantages of Recent China Visit Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, shakes hands with Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Beijing, China, Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025. (Thailand's Government Spokesman Office via AP) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has expressed optimism that her recent official visit to China will yield significant benefits for Thailand, particularly in terms of security and enhancing trade relations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351989-thai-pm-paetongtarn-highlights-advantages-of-recent-china-visit/

Chinese President Xi Jinping, right, shakes hands with Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra in Beijing, China, Thursday, Feb. 6, 2025. (Thailand's Government Spokesman Office via AP) Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has expressed optimism that her recent official visit to China will yield significant benefits for Thailand, particularly in terms of security and enhancing trade relations. Speaking on her monthly television segment "Opportunities for Thailand with Prime Minister Paetongtarn" on NBT HD2, she elaborated on the outcomes of her trip, which took place from February 5-8 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations. During her visit, the Prime Minister engaged with prominent Chinese leaders, including President Xi Jinping, National People's Congress chairman Zhao Leji, and Prime Minister Li Qiang. Discussions focused on strengthening the longtime friendship and exploring avenues of cooperation over the next half-century. Key topics included a gesture of goodwill involving the transfer of two giant pandas to Thailand and the construction of a royal archway to honour His Majesty the King's 72nd birthday. The Prime Minister also extended a warm invitation to Chinese tourists to experience Thailand's Songkran festival in April, emphasizing the Thai government's commitment to ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all international visitors. Concerns regarding cross-border scams affecting Chinese nationals were raised, and both parties discussed strategies to curb scam syndicates and cybercrimes. President Xi commended Thailand’s efforts to combat these criminal activities and agreed to collaborate on forming a task force to intensify the crackdown. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will appoint a liaison to work closely with this task force to quickly address any arising issues. The Prime Minister further briefed President Xi on Thailand's ambitious first high-speed rail link project, which aims to connect Thailand and China through Laos. This development promises to cut logistics costs and unlock new business opportunities for farmers and small-to-medium enterprises. Encouraged by China's support, the Prime Minister pledged to expedite the project's progress. Additionally, China has shown considerable interest in Thailand's southern Land Bridge project, seeking further details from feasibility studies as they evaluate potential investments. These discussions suggest a promising future for increased Chinese economic involvement in Thailand. Overall, Prime Minister Paetongtarn's visit seems set to bolster bilateral ties, pave the way for new economic initiatives, and enhance safety and security cooperation between the two countries, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-17

Teenage Boy Cycles 100km to Be with His Grandparents Picture courtesy: Khaosod A 13-year-old boy named Pond embarked on an ambitious 100-kilometre bicycle journey to reunite with his grandparents in Ubon Ratchathani. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351988-teenage-boy-cycles-100km-to-be-with-his-grandparents/

Picture courtesy: Khaosod A 13-year-old boy named Pond embarked on an ambitious 100-kilometre bicycle journey to reunite with his grandparents in Ubon Ratchathani. His adventure commenced in Laem Chabang, Chonburi province, as he departed without notifying his mother, determined to reconnect with the grandparents who had nurtured him. The young cyclist's journey was interrupted when compassionate locals found him at a PTT Hua Samrong Gateway gas station in Chachoengsao province. The boy, dressed in a school uniform and appearing worn out, was quickly surrounded by concerned patrons who inquired about his circumstances. Pond shared that his intention was not born out of any domestic strife or issues at school. Having moved in with his mother only five months prior, he simply missed the comforting presence of his grandparents. His ordeal included a minor collision with a motorcyclist, who generously compensated him with 100 baht, enabling him to purchase some food. Inside his modest backpack, Pond carried a hammock, a few school essentials, and personal items such as a ping-pong paddle and a flute. When he was found, he had just 60 baht remaining. The quick response from locals and a local reporter at the scene led to an outpouring of generosity, raising over 2,000 baht for the intrepid young traveller. Police from the Plaeng Yao station soon stepped in, contacting Pond’s father, Mr. Kat. Upon arrival, the father and son shared a heartfelt reunion, discussing Pond's determination to return to his grandparents in Ubon Ratchathani. Though his father understood and respected his son's wishes, he requested Pond to finish the school term first due to approaching exams. The family agreed upon a plan for Pond to move back to his grandparents after completing the term, allowing him to embrace his educational journey while maintaining cherished family ties. During this conversation, Pond also revealed his ambition to become a social justice lawyer, highlighting a mature and profound sense of purpose at such a young age. With the situation amicably resolved, and assurances from Pond that he would not venture out without notice again, his father took him safely back to Laem Chabang. This story not only illustrates the lengths a child might go for love and belonging but also showcases community spirit and collective empathy, reported Khaosod. -- 2025-02-17

Pedestrian Crossings in Thailand Demand Enhanced Safety Measures File photo for reference only Calls for improved safety at pedestrian crossings in Bangkok have intensified, particularly in high-risk areas near schools and hospitals, following incidents that underscore the urgent need for reform. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351986-pedestrian-crossings-in-thailand-demand-enhanced-safety-measures/

File photo for reference only Calls for improved safety at pedestrian crossings in Bangkok have intensified, particularly in high-risk areas near schools and hospitals, following incidents that underscore the urgent need for reform. Chamaipan Santikarn, manager of ThaiHealth's Social Mobilisation for Motorcycle Safety Project, has highlighted these concerns after a recent accident where a 68-year-old South Korean tourist was struck by a motorcycle at a crossing outside the Kidney Institute Hospital on Phaya Thai Road, Ratchathewi district. This location, notably, is the same where an ophthalmologist tragically lost her life to a speeding motorcyclist two years prior. Ms. Chamaipan points out that the recurrence of such accidents at the same location, despite visible stop signals, signals a broader issue with Thailand's road safety measures. She asserts that enhancing safety isn't an insurmountable challenge; government intervention can play a pivotal role in implementing effective solutions. In several countries, innovative measures have been adopted to preempt road accidents. For example, rumble strips have been proven effective in slowing down vehicles before they reach pedestrian crossings. In China, the ELLUMIN Intelligent Pedestrian System employs illuminated signs and smart sensors to aid safe crossing, while South Korea boasts a smart crosswalk system, featuring ground-level crossing lights, particularly beneficial for pedestrians focused on their mobile phones. This system is complemented by audio alerts and illuminated signs, enhancing visibility even at night. Furthermore, enhanced enforcement through technology, such as cameras and sensors that capture licence plates of vehicles breaching crossing rules, could dramatically reduce violations at these crossings. Recent CCTV data have identified twenty high-risk pedestrian crossing areas in Bangkok, predominantly situated in front of educational institutions and medical facilities. These include Bangkok Intercare School, Yothinburana School, Kidney Institute Hospital, Buengthonglang High School, Rattanakosinsompoch Bangkhunthian School, and Big C on Itsaraphap Road. Addressing the safety challenges at pedestrian crossings is crucial for reducing accidents and ensuring the well-being of residents and visitors alike. As Thailand grapples with these issues, integrating international best practices and technology-driven solutions can substantially enhance pedestrian safety across the nation’s bustling streets, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-17

Taiwan Labels Thailand as High-Risk Travel Destination CNA, MOI photo courtesy by: Taiwan News In a decisive move, Taiwan has designated Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos as high-risk travel destinations due to their connections with burgeoning fraud rings. Announced by Taiwan's Ministry of Interior on Friday, this development highlights growing concerns over regional crime syndicates specifically targeting international visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351984-taiwan-labels-thailand-as-high-risk-travel-destination/

CNA, MOI photo courtesy by: Taiwan News In a decisive move, Taiwan has designated Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos as high-risk travel destinations due to their connections with burgeoning fraud rings. Announced by Taiwan's Ministry of Interior on Friday, this development highlights growing concerns over regional crime syndicates specifically targeting international visitors. Travellers flying to these countries will now see explicit warnings printed on their airline tickets. Additionally, they are urged to download a dedicated travel safety app developed by Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs to enhance their security awareness while abroad. This heightened caution comes on the heels of various incidents in recent years where Taiwanese citizens were lured into working in fraud rings, particularly in Cambodia and Myanmar. The release earlier this week of 260 foreign nationals from a scam centre in Myanmar, including seven Taiwanese, has underscored the gravity of these operations. The freed individuals are currently undergoing interviews with Thai police and are expected to be repatriated soon. To mitigate these risks, Taiwan's National Immigration Agency and the Aviation Police Bureau will intensify their efforts to prevent Taiwanese citizens from inadvertently becoming entangled in these fraudulent networks. Airlines are asked to participate by incorporating safety warnings onto electronic tickets. The travel safety app, available since 2022, offers vital guidance to tourists about potential threats and established safety protocols. It aims to equip Taiwanese travellers with the knowledge needed to navigate these high-risk areas wisely. This proactive stance by Taiwan underscores the importance of international cooperation and vigilance in counteracting fraud and ensuring the safety of global tourists. As Taiwan continues to safeguard its citizens, these measures illustrate the ongoing commitment to confronting the risks posed by such international crime syndicates, reported Taiwan News. -- 2025-02-17

Chinese Minister Rescues 600 Nationals from Scam Gangs at Thai-Myanmar Border Picture courtesy: Bangkok Post In an ambitious move to combat international fraud, China's assistant minister of public security, Liu Zhongyi, has travelled to the Thai-Myanmar border to orchestrate the repatriation of approximately 600 Chinese nationals, victims of scam gangs operating in the region. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351981-chinese-minister-rescues-600-nationals-from-scam-gangs-at-thai-myanmar-border/

Picture courtesy: Bangkok Post In an ambitious move to combat international fraud, China's assistant minister of public security, Liu Zhongyi, has travelled to the Thai-Myanmar border to orchestrate the repatriation of approximately 600 Chinese nationals, victims of scam gangs operating in the region. Arriving at Don Mueang airport with a delegation of 26 officials, Liu swiftly proceeded to Mae Sot in Tak province. From there, he crossed into Myawaddy, a hotspot for scam activities, with the intent of coordinating efforts to extricate Chinese citizens trapped in these illicit operations. The individuals will be chartered back to China, marking the success of intensive joint security raids aiming to dismantle these syndicates. The Myanmar authorities have recently rescued 731 individuals from several countries, including Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam, in a crackdown that began last Tuesday. Efforts are underway to distinguish genuine trafficking victims from those who willingly participated in the call centre scams. The Karen Border Guard Force (BGF), aligned with Myanmar's junta, has played a pivotal role in the crackdown, detaining hundreds over successive days. Meanwhile, People's Party MP Rangsiman Rome, chairman of the House Committee on State Security and Border Affairs, visited Mae Sot to discuss the deteriorating border security with Thai military officials. Rangsiman emphasised the detrimental impact these scam operations have on Thailand's economy and its global reputation, affirming the legislature's commitment to combating this extensive crime network. Despite Thai efforts to disrupt the syndicates by cutting off essential supplies, including electricity and internet, the gangs have adapted, switching to solar and satellite solutions. The BGF indicates plans to deport up to 10,000 individuals tied to these scams, with preparations already underway to extradite 500 more suspects of various nationalities. This assurance comes amid Myanmar borderlands becoming notorious as bases for complex scam networks, paradoxically growing in a region beleaguered by socio-political strife. In a move signaling their steadfast resolve, the BGF spokesman, Major Naing Maung Zaw, declared their intention to exile all scam operators from their controlled territories, with a recent transfer of 61 suspects across the border into Thailand foreshadowing a more considerable deportation effort. This concerted international action spotlights the pervasive nature of scam gangs ensnaring countless vulnerable individuals while reflecting a broader commitment to preserving regional security and justice. The involvement of high-ranking officials like Liu Zhongyi underscores the gravity and collaborative urgency of the mission to eradicate these criminal enterprises, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-17

Foreigners Face New Hurdles in Opening Thai Bank Accounts Picture courtesy: Royal Vacation Foreign nationals in Thailand are encountering increased difficulties when trying to open bank accounts, following a new crackdown aimed at combating financial crime. This development is part of a broader initiative by the Thai government, led by the Bank of Thailand, targeting mule accounts linked to fraud and money laundering activities. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351977-foreigners-face-new-hurdles-in-opening-thai-bank-accounts/

Picture courtesy: Royal Vacation Foreign nationals in Thailand are encountering increased difficulties when trying to open bank accounts, following a new crackdown aimed at combating financial crime. This development is part of a broader initiative by the Thai government, led by the Bank of Thailand, targeting mule accounts linked to fraud and money laundering activities. Starting February 17, even foreigners applying for bank accounts required for visas, such as the Destination Thailand Visa or the non-immigrant "O" retirement permit, face potential challenges. Popular agencies in places like Jomtien have announced they can no longer assist foreigners in opening accounts until the situation stabilises. The Thai authorities have been vigorous in their campaign, freezing approximately 1.8 million accounts and arresting 2,500 individuals over the past year. Attention is now directed towards telecommunication companies, digital platform operators, and consumers suspected of facilitating financial crimes. This crackdown aligns with the Thai government’s efforts to dismantle scam call centres, particularly those operating from Myanmar and Cambodia. Measures, such as cutting off electricity to certain regions, have had limited impact. There’s also an ongoing initiative to ensure that Thai mobile banking accounts are registered under the actual SIM card owner's name, which has caused complications for some, including foreigners using bank accounts in their spouse’s name or linked to corporate accounts, writes Barry Kenyon for Pattaya Mail. Currently, there's no official ban on opening new accounts, but banks are exercising caution. Many are rejecting applicants citing ambiguous intentions, affecting tourists and others holding short-term visas. Banks are also empowered to suspend existing accounts suspected of being involved in money laundering or other illicit activities. While necessary for addressing financial crime, this sweep has inadvertently complicated matters for legitimate foreign account holders. Observers argue for a more precise strategy targeting criminals without widespread account freezes, which are creating more problems than solutions. Until banks and authorities clarify requirements and streamline processes, foreign nationals and businesses are advised to prepare for possible banking disruptions during this challenging period. Patience and resilience will be key as regulations evolve in Thailand's dynamic financial landscape. -- 2025-02-17

Thai MP Calls for Visa Policy Review to Tackle Scam Gangs Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV People's Party MP, Rangsiman Rome, has urged the Thai government to reassess its visa-free entry policy to combat the rise of scam gangs allegedly operating across the Thai-Myanmar border. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351975-thai-mp-calls-for-visa-policy-review-to-tackle-scam-gangs/

Picture courtesy: AMARIN TV People's Party MP, Rangsiman Rome, has urged the Thai government to reassess its visa-free entry policy to combat the rise of scam gangs allegedly operating across the Thai-Myanmar border. During a trip to the border town of Mae Sot in Tak province, Rome shared his concerns over the current border security measures' efficacy in preventing illegal activities. As the Chair of the House Committee on Security, Border Affairs, National Strategies, and National Reform, Rome met with the Rajamanu Task Force to discuss cross-border crime and call centre scams. The filter system in place has been deemed insufficient to deter foreign nationals either joining or being trapped into scam operations based in Myawaddy township. Rome pinpointed the need for heightened scrutiny over the visa-free entry system, as current measures cannot fully block foreigners intent on crossing over illegally. He emphasised the necessity for more extensive investigative strategies, possibly requiring individuals to obtain specific permission for entry into border areas. Though the Thai authorities have initiated strict measures since February 5, cutting off electricity, internet, and fuel to nearby Myanmar border towns like Myawaddy, these efforts may not suffice. Officials have imposed checkpoints at airports and border roads, yet natural crossing channels at night remain a viable escape route for those determined to breach borders. Rome also stressed the importance of international cooperation, mentioning a need for stronger actions against the Karen Border Guard Force leader, Saw Chit Thu. Despite the release of scam workers from complexes like Shwe Kokko and KK Park in Myawaddy, a substantial number remain trapped within these crime networks, potentially numbering in the tens of thousands. To sustain the pressure, Thai authorities are also looking into the prevention of critical supplies, such as solar panels and satellite internet services, from reaching the scam gangs. Collaboration across various agencies is underway to disrupt these illegal operations effectively. This ongoing issue underscores the significance of a robust and coordinated approach between Thai and Myanmar authorities while adapting existing entry policies to incorporate tighter security measures. As Thailand balances its thriving tourism sector with national security responsibilities, ensuring legal and safe entry becomes more crucial than ever, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2025-02-17

Pakistanis Arrested for Illegal Herb Sales in Patong Picture courtesy: The Phuket Express Two Pakistani nationals have been arrested in Patong for selling herbs without legal permits, highlighting ongoing issues with unauthorised business activities in the popular tourist area. The police apprehended the individuals at a rented room on Soi Ratcha Uthit 200 Pi Road following reports of their illicit sales operations. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351969-pakistanis-arrested-for-illegal-herb-sales-in-patong/