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UPDATE: CCTV Reveals Russian Tourist in Pattaya Got Attacked by Another Foreigner, Not Go-go Bar Guards By Tanakorn Panyadee Pattaya — CCTV footage inside a Pattaya Walking Street go-go bar where a Russian tourist was allegedly beaten revealed he was not attacked by the guards as initially reported but rather two unidentified foreign men. The guards were attempting to control the situation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298297-go-go-bar-guards-on-pattaya-walking-street-allegedly-attack-russian-man-who-refused-to-pay-his-bill/?do=findComment&comment=18153416

UPDATE: Officials create protected area for dugongs as tourists flock to Trang islands By Peter Roche PHOTO: Khunkay/Wikimedia Thailand’s Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation has created a special protected area for dugongs in Trang province. The move is in response to concerns that the return of tourists could have a negative impact on the dugongs’ habitat. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298344-phuket-vies-for-hosting-specialised-expo-2028-promising-sustainability-and-harmony/?do=findComment&comment=18153382

Mae Sot officials probed for 30m baht bribes in migrant ID scandal by Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of ฐานเศรษฐกิจ In Mae Sot district, Tak province, three Registration Department officials have come under scrutiny for allegedly accepting 30 million baht in bribes to issue identification cards to 700 Myanmar migrants over the last three months. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298358-mae-sot-officials-probed-for-30m-baht-bribes-in-migrant-id-scandal/

UPDATE: Three arrest warrants issued in Thai 140m baht online gambling extortion case Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Cop Hero Thailand Magazine Facebook Arrest warrants have been issued for three individuals believed to be involved in the extortion of six suspects connected to an online gambling case. Deputy national police chief, Surachate Hakparn, confirmed the issuance of the warrants for Veera Nasab, his spouse, and Phisit Nakhisornpanee, on charges of bribery and theft. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298333-thai-police-seize-1000-million-baht-assets-in-embezzlement-case-linked-to-‘boy’/?do=findComment&comment=18153311

Victims lost nearly 1 million baht at hotel, secret doors found in rooms by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ โจโฉ Thai victims lost nearly one million baht in cash and assets to a thief at a hotel in the central province of Kanchanaburi. The secret and suspicious doors were discovered inside the room. The hotel owner claimed that the doors were an escape route for mistresses. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298357-victims-lost-nearly-1-million-baht-at-hotel-secret-doors-found-in-rooms/

Three arrest warrants issued in Thai 140m baht online gambling extortion case Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Cop Hero Thailand Magazine Facebook Arrest warrants have been issued for three individuals believed to be involved in the extortion of six suspects connected to an online gambling case. Deputy national police chief, Surachate Hakparn, confirmed the issuance of the warrants for Veera Nasab, his spouse, and Phisit Nakhisornpanee, on charges of bribery and theft. Veera and Phisit are suspected to have fled to a neighbouring nation on June 13 after discovering they were being investigated through police connections. In Chon Buri‘s Bang Lamung district, Veera’s residence was searched, where law enforcement found cash, a flash drive, a mobile phone SIM card, a memory card, and a gold ring. The money was not confiscated, as officers believe it was earned from Veera’s speedboat rental company, Bangkok Post reported. The situation gained attention on Thursday when six individuals filed a complaint with Khu Khot police in Pathum Thani, accusing Chon Buri police chief Kamphon Leelaprapaporn and his team of demanding 140 million baht to avoid prosecution for operating an online gambling site called Foxbet168. Full story: https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/crime/three-arrest-warrants-issued-in-thai-140m-baht-online-gambling-extortion-case -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-06-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Social Media Helps Find Missing Chinese Tourist in Phuket By Goongnang Suksawat Phuket – A Chinese tourist in Phuket who had lost contact for more than 45 days with his family has been reunited with them once more after social media helped bring them together. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298356-social-media-helps-find-missing-chinese-tourist-in-phuket/

Tourists beware of cannabis scam at Phuket’s Freedom Beach as couple falls victim by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of Khaosod A couple visiting Freedom Beach in Phuket, Thailand, fell for a cannabis scam while enjoying their holiday. The scammers manipulated them into trying cannabis, causing them to lose control and become disorientated – they were rescued by a good samaritan before any harm was done. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298355-tourists-beware-of-cannabis-scam-at-phuket’s-freedom-beach-as-couple-falls-victim/

People flee high-rise buildings in Bangkok as Myanmar quake tremors felt Many office workers in high-rise buildings in Bangkok and Nonthaburi province rushed into the streets after they felt their buildings shake this morning (Monday). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298354-people-flee-high-rise-buildings-in-bangkok-as-myanmar-quake-tremors-felt/

Chiang Mai tourism: Haze issue risks long-stay senior tourist numbers by Alex Morgan Photo Courtesy of Bangkok Post Tourism operators in Chiang Mai are urging the new government to address the persistent haze issue to attract the return of long-stay senior tourists, whose absence has dealt a significant blow to the province’s economy. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298350-chiang-mai-tourism-haze-issue-risks-long-stay-senior-tourist-numbers/

Household debt in Thailand soars to 86.9% of GDP, dampening consumer spending by Alex Morgan Photo Courtesy of Freepik Thailand’s mounting household debt is raising concerns, as it continues to hinder consumer spending, affecting various industries and impeding economic growth. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298348-household-debt-in-thailand-soars-to-869-of-gdp-dampening-consumer-spending/

Thailand’s mounting household debt is raising concerns, as it continues to hinder consumer spending, affecting various industries and impeding economic growth. The latest data from the National Economic and Social Development Council shows debt in the nation reached 15.1 trillion baht in the fourth quarter of 2022, a 3.5% increase year on year, and accounting for 86.9% of GDP. Debt levels remain alarmingly high, as the major factors behind rising household debt are real estate purchases and personal loans. Despite a slow rate of decline, it is anticipated to take a considerable time for household debt to reach the Bank of Thailand’s target level of 80% of GDP. The central bank warned that debt levels surpassing 80% of GDP pose a risk to the country’s financial stability and long-term economic growth. It is predicted that without implementing debt restructuring measures, household debt is expected to tally 84% of GDP by 2027. According to Kasikorn Research Center (K-Research), Thailand’s household debt-to-GDP ratio is expected to decline to between 85.5 to 86% in 2023, due to GDP expansion and retail loan repayments. This includes repayments on credit cards and mortgages during seasonal periods. However, the ratio remains high at 86.9% as GDP growth aligns with the nation’s economic recovery. Over the long term, K-Research expects retail loans in the Thai banking system to grow at a slowed pace of 3 to 3.5% compared to the previous average of 6.0% over the past five years. by Alex Morgan Photo Courtesy of Freepik Full story: https://thethaiger.com/hot-news/economy/thai-household-debt-soars-to-86-9-of-gdp-dampening-consumer-spending -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-06-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Foreign Minister insists informal Myanmar talks are in Thailand’s interest On Sunday, Thailand’s Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai defended his country’s hosting of peace talks, which the foreign minister of Myanmar’s ruling junta is attending, which will be shunned by key ASEAN counterparts and which is attracting criticism of the incumbent Thai government. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298345-foreign-minister-insists-informal-myanmar-talks-are-in-thailand’s-interest/

On Sunday, Thailand’s Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai defended his country’s hosting of peace talks, which the foreign minister of Myanmar’s ruling junta is attending, which will be shunned by key ASEAN counterparts and which is attracting criticism of the incumbent Thai government. Speaking to Thai PBS, Don said the forum is part of Thailand’s continuing efforts to find ways to resolve the crisis in neighbouring Myanmar. Myanmar’s Foreign Minister Than Swe is attending the two-day meeting, which started on Sunday, along with representatives from Laos, Cambodia, Brunei, Vietnam, India and China, according to a statement from the Thai Foreign Ministry. Full story: https://www.thaipbsworld.com/foreign-minister-insists-informal-myanmar-talks-are-in-thailands-interest/ -- © Copyright Thai PBS 2023-06-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

Phuket vies for hosting Specialised Expo 2028, promising sustainability and harmony by Mitch Connor PHOTO: Unsplash/The DK Photography The world awaits the anticipated announcement on June 21, revealing which country has been chosen to host the prestigious Specialised Expo 2028. Among the five finalists is Phuket, Thailand, fueling great expectations for the nation in this international competition. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298344-phuket-vies-for-hosting-specialised-expo-2028-promising-sustainability-and-harmony/

Thailand News - 12 senior police in extortion investigation, Phuket Bitcoin binge : Tim Newton Today - June 19 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298343-thailand-news-12-senior-police-in-extortion-investigation-phuket-bitcoin-binge-tim-newton-today-june-19/

12 senior police have been sidelined during 140 million baht extortion investigation, there's been a 20 million baht Phuket Bitcoin binge with a 'miner' stealing power, Kylie Enwright arrives back in Australia after fall in Khao Lak and her family's ongoing flight with their insurance company, Thailand's caretaker FM decides to run a non-ASEAN meeting over 'Myanmar issues'... no one came. Will Pita supporters take to Thai streets if the new coalition is not allowed to form a government? New highway from Thailand to India, and a Russian is beaten up by Go Go bar staff in Pattaya. Tim Newton Today is a daily take on Thai and regional news and issues of interest to expats and foreign tourists. With thanks to our sponsor 5 Star Marine in Phuket for premium, private charters. Click on this link for a special offer for TNT viewers... https://5starmarinephuket.com/tim/

Thai school aids 11-year-old’s return amid pandemic-driven dropout crisis by Mitch Connor TOP PHOTO: Unsplash/Mario Heller An 11-year-old Thai boy, Anirut Thongdech, also known as Saming, has been given the opportunity to return to school after being forced to leave when his family could no longer afford his education. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298341-thai-school-aids-11-year-old’s-return-amid-pandemic-driven-dropout-crisis/

Man’s costly error sees pick-up truck and jet ski plunge into Mae Klong River by Nattapong Westwood PHOTO: Youtube/เรื่องเล่าเช้านี้ A man, 41 years old, experienced a costly mistake when he parked his pick-up truck without properly engaging the handbrake, causing the vehicle and a jet ski worth nearly a million baht to plunge into the Mae Klong River. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298340-man’s-costly-error-sees-pick-up-truck-and-jet-ski-plunge-into-mae-klong-river/

Chiang Mai temple abbot investigated for 200m baht mismanagement and illegal shrine construction by Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of dhammajak A high-profile Chiang Mai temple abbot is under investigation after allegations of mismanagement of 200 million baht worth of donations and unauthorised construction of a shrine, following a recent incident in which he caused damage to multiple vehicles. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298339-chiang-mai-temple-abbot-investigated-for-200m-baht-mismanagement-and-illegal-shrine-construction/

Thai police seize 1,000 million baht assets in embezzlement case linked to ‘Boy’ Nattapong Westwood PHOTO: Unsplash/Andre Blanco Thai police have seized assets worth over 1,000 million baht (US$28,800,000) from a suspect known as “Boy” in connection to an alleged 140 million baht (US$4,036,000) embezzlement case. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298333-thai-police-seize-1000-million-baht-assets-in-embezzlement-case-linked-to-‘boy’/

Thai police have seized assets worth over 1,000 million baht (US$28,800,000) from a suspect known as “Boy” in connection to an alleged 140 million baht (US$4,036,000) embezzlement case. Speaking yesterday, police deputy commander Surachet Hakpal detailed that nine out of ten men facing accusations had reported to authorities, including Chonburi’s provincial governor. The investigation continues, with financial examinations expected to conclude this week. Surachet Hakpal stated that there was misconduct in the initial handling of the arrests, as the accused individuals were not taken to a police station in the local area; instead, they were taken straight to their superiors’ offices. Furthermore, some arrest warrants were withdrawn after receiving payments, asserting that the information provided by an informant was incorrect. Surachet also mentioned they are preparing to further expand the investigation and apprehend more individuals involved in this matter. The assets discovered, worth an initial estimate of 200-300 million baht (US$5,765,000-8,648,000), include residential properties, land, boats, and motor vehicles. The authorities, in coordination with the government’s financial secretary, are now focused on completing the asset seizure process worth not less than 1,000 million baht in total. by Nattapong Westwood TOP PHOTO: Unsplash/Andre Blanco Full story: https://thethaiger.com/news/national/thai-police-seize-1000-million-baht-assets-in-embezzlement-case-linked-to-boy -- © Copyright Thaiger 2023-06-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Monday 19 June 2023 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298332-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-monday-19-june-2023/

The Pheu Thai party has decided to concede the position of House Speaker to the Move Forward Party, while securing the two deputy House Speaker posts for themselves. Initially, there was disagreement between the two parties regarding the allocation of these positions, The final negotiations on this issue will occur after the Election Commission officially endorses the MP candidates on June 21st. Thailand's Foreign Minister organized a forum for representatives from ASEAN and other countries to hear from delegates of the Myanmar junta. Several key Southeast Asian counterparts stayed away from the meeting that has drawn sharp criticism. Thailand claims the purpose was to serve regional interests and was not an official ASEAN meeting. The forum aimed to update ASEAN member states on developments in Myanmar following the appointment of a new foreign minister. Thailand’s minister emphasized the need for dialogue with the Myanmar junta. Three people are wanted by the police for allegedly extorting six suspects involved in an online gambling case. Two of them reportedly fled to a neighboring country on June 13th. The case gained public attention when six complaints were made to the chief of Chon Buri police and his team for demanding 140 million baht to avoid prosecution for operating an online gambling website. Deputy police chief Surachate said that at least 12 police officers were implicated in the scheme. 2 Thai and 1 Cambodian nationals were arrested by officers from the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Division. They were caught smuggling 33 macaques and their carcasses in a Ford Ranger pickup truck. The monkeys, along with anesthetic darts and needles, were discovered when the vehicle was intercepted in Suphanburi. The cargo was headed for the border with Cambodia, where it was to be delivered to customers. Around the Region: Myanmar: Pro-democracy activists and related forces have called for a general strike, by holding flowers today to mark the 78th birthday of Aung San Suu Kyi. Flower strikes have been used to mark her two previous birthdays since the 2021 coup. Pictures are uploaded of people holding flowers and with similar hairstyle to Suu Kyi. A prominent protest leader said flowers and silent strikes are seen as a threat by the regime, which always tries to disrupt the movements through threats from troops. The weather: Cloudy with thundershowers Chiang Mai and the north: Cloudy with thundershowers 34C Bangkok: Cloudy isolated thundershowers 32 Pattaya, Cloudy with thundershowers 31 Phuket and the south: Sunny partly cloudy DRY 31C ‘Hua Hin’ :Partly Cloudy, some rain 32 Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Royal Coast Review, Kulsawek Sawekwannakorn, Thainewsroom.com, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 -- © Copyright SURF 102.5 FM 2023-06-19 - Cigna offers a range of visa-compliant plans that meet the minimum requirement of medical treatment, including COVID-19, up to THB 3m. For more information on all expat health insurance plans click here. The most versatile and flexible rental investment and holiday home solution in Thailand - click for more information.

March Across Thailand: 50,000 Signatures Sought to Keep Cannabis off the Narcotics List The Future Cannabis Network is marching across Thailand in a campaign to gather 50,000 signatures opposing the reclassification of cannabis as a narcotic, confident that the new government will listen. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1298326-march-across-thailand-50000-signatures-sought-to-keep-cannabis-off-the-narcotics-list/