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More Thais Staying Single, Impact on Weddings and Florists Photo courtesy of Thailand Foundation An increasing number of Thais are choosing to remain single, driven by changing social norms, financial pressures, and rising expectations for partners. This shift is affecting businesses tied to romance, such as wedding planners and flower shops. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351688-more-thais-staying-single-impact-on-weddings-and-florists/

Bangkok Taxi Driver Arrested for Robbing Drunk Passengers Picture courtesy of Matichon Police in Bangkok have arrested 46-year-old Sawat, a taxi driver accused of stealing from intoxicated passengers and abandoning them mid-route. The arrest, made possible via a GPS tracker on his cab, took place on February 12 in the Lat Phrao district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351689-bangkok-taxi-driver-arrested-for-robbing-drunk-passengers/

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 14 February 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1351670-thailand-live-friday-14-february-2025/

Foreign Tourist Saved by Thai Police After Travel Mishap Picture courtesy: Daily News A foreign tourist named "Jack" seeking adventure on Thailand's Koh Tao island ended up in an unexpected location—and in dire straits—before Thai police and good Samaritans came to the rescue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351667-foreign-tourists-saved-by-thai-police-after-travel-mishap/

French Tourist Lost in Thailand Finds Help After Travel Mix-Up Picture courtesy: Daily News A French tourist aiming for Koh Tao was mistakenly taken to Doi Tao, but with circumstances quickly turning challenging, he ultimately found support and a new path forward. The adventurer, known only as Jack, faced an unexpected hurdle during his travels in Thailand that sent him miles away from his intended destination, thanks to a communication slip-up. Instead of the blue waters of Koh Tao located in Surat Thani, he found himself bewildered and far from the coast in the mountainous district of Doi Tao, Chiang Mai. Jack's journey took a further detour when, amidst his attempts to course-correct, he misplaced his wallet and passport during a dinner stop in Suphan Buri. The situation could have spiralled, but local kindness showed its strength. Enter Police Corporal Teerapat Modjod, whose Facebook post about Jack's misadventures caught the attention of many. Brought to Song Phi Nong Police Station by a cabbage truck driver, Jack's predicament quickly unfolded. The driver, on route to Ratchaburi, had discovered Jack in need and kindly agreed to help, albeit with a strict delivery deadline of his own looming. Teerapat's quick thinking connected the dots when a good Samaritan handed in Jack's lost purse, intact with cash and passport. This act of kindness happened at a petrol station in Suphan Buri, where the good-hearted individual noted the French tourist had been hitching a ride in a cabbage truck. Reunited with his belongings, Jack expressed immense relief and gratitude, having thought them lost to the chaos of his unintended detour. The revelation arrived at Muang Police Station, where the kind helper awaited to hand over everything Jack needed to continue his journey. Jack had originally planned a visit to the famous island of Koh Tao for his first Thailand trip. A language barrier led him astray, resulting in his unintended northern detour to Doi Tao. Undeterred, Jack began hitchhiking south, which is how the cabbage truck driver found him in Lamphun, and the journey to Ratchaburi began. Taking in the warmth of Thai hospitality, the police ensured Jack had a place to rest before embarking on the next leg of his trip to Surat Thani, where he could finally relax on the beaches of Koh Tao, possibly with a tale or two to share. All through these trials, the spirit of local generosity and the eager support of local authorities shone as a beacon for the stranded traveller. With their help, Jack's journey was poised to get back on track, reported The Nation. -- 2025-02-13

Thailand Considers Lifting Alcohol Sales Ban, Eyeing Economic Boost Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand is mulling over the possibility of lifting the longstanding ban on alcohol sales between 2pm and 5pm, as well as during religious holidays. This move, championed by the former chairperson of the Alcohol Beverage Business Association, aligns with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s directives aimed at boosting the economy by revisiting regulations seen as impediments. Thanakorn Kuptajit, the former association chairperson, has argued for a reassessment of these restrictions, which also include stringent zoning laws and limited sales times. Allowing electronic sales channels is another progressive step under consideration. Such changes, according to Thanakorn, could spur immediate economic growth, with projections indicating an influx of over 50 billion baht through enhanced tourist and local spending. The potential ripple effects of these reforms are substantial, promising benefits for ancillary industries like hotels, entertainment venues, and dining establishments. Additionally, the proposed changes could generate new job opportunities in roles such as drivers, waitstaff, and musicians, creating more income avenues. Stakeholders, including members from the Nightlife Entrepreneurs Association, are optimistic and are planning to convene next Monday, 17th February. The meeting aims to unify industry views and present a coherent case to the government for amending what many consider outdated alcohol sales laws. This sentiment reflects a growing call from hotels and alcohol-related businesses to modernise regulations in line with current economic and social landscapes. Whether the government will act swiftly remains to be seen, but the potential economic rewards present a compelling case for reform, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-13

Foreign Tourist Saved by Thai Police After Travel Mishap Picture courtesy: Daily News A foreign tourist seeking adventure on Thailand's Koh Tao island ended up in an unexpected location—and in dire straits—before Thai police and good Samaritans came to the rescue. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351667-foreign-tourists-saved-by-thai-police-after-travel-mishap/

Picture courtesy: Daily News A Foreign tourist named "Jack" seeking adventure on Thailand's Koh Tao island ended up in an unexpected location—and in dire straits—before Thai police and good Samaritans came to the rescue. Jack, the tourist, had set his sights on the sunshine and sands of Koh Tao, located in southern Thailand's Surat Thani province. But his plans went awry when he realised he had been taken to Doi Tao instead, a far-flung mountainous region. It was a case of mistaken locations with perplexing and dramatic consequences for Jack, who was left stranded by his driver. The story gained widespread attention on 13th February when Teerapat Modjod, an officer at Song Phi Nong Police Station in Suphanburi, shared Jack's ordeal on Facebook. According to Teerapat's post, Jack’s journey took a turn when his passport and a considerable sum of money were found at a petrol station. Jack, who was travelling in a truck loaded with cabbages, had initially flagged down the vehicle in Lamphun province in hopes of reaching Ratchaburi. Complications escalated when Jack, during a meal stop in Suphanburi, inadvertently misplaced his wallet. Despite the urgency, as the truck was scheduled to reach Ratchaburi by 2 a.m., local police stepped in to transport Jack back to retrieve his belongings. Teerapat posted that Jack was experiencing stress, concerned about being deceived again. Fortunately, upon returning to Suphanburi's police station, Jack was relieved to find a kind-hearted citizen had returned his wallet. The kindness extended further—officers provided an interpreter to assist in communications and arranged accommodation for him. Expressing his relief and gratitude, Jack said, "The Thai police are fantastic. At least this adventure has given me a memorable first impression of Thai hospitality—luckily chaotic yet wonderfully helpful." The story warmed hearts online, drawing numerous supportive comments championing the benevolence of Thai citizens and police: "A reliable refuge for travellers worldwide," praised one, while another commented, "Excellent work by the new officers, truly commendable." Jack's mishap turned into an experience showcasing the exceptional hospitality and generosity of the Thai people, giving him a travel tale to remember, reported Daily News. -- 2025-02-13

Football aristocracy trades boots for birdies in epic golf showdown Score big with exclusive 50% off Hospitality Tickets for Thaiger readers Picture of former Manchester United favourite Phil Jones courtesy of the www.icons-series.com Thailand is rolling out the red carpet for the world of footballing aristocracy next month as they swap pitches for putts in a thrilling Ryder Cup-style golf competition. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351643-football-aristocracy-trades-boots-for-birdies-in-epic-golf-showdown/

Picture of former Manchester United favourite Phil Jones courtesy of the www.icons-series.com Score big with exclusive 50% off Hospitality Tickets for Thaiger readers Thailand is rolling out the red carpet for the world of footballing aristocracy next month as they swap pitches for putts in a thrilling Ryder Cup-style golf competition. Twenty-four of the globe’s most highly decorated soccer legends will swap the highly-charged, almost gladiatorial, arenas of their playing days to trade goals, penalties and free-kicks for birdies, eagles and hole-in-ones in the Reignwood Icons of Football competition, on the challenging greens of Robinswood Golf Course. As an official sponsor, The Thaiger is offering readers an exclusive 50% discount on Hospitality tickets through our platform—don’t miss out on the chance to witness football royalty take on the greens up close. Under captain Lee Westwood, Team England is set to give a masterclass in sporting versatility as they square off against Team World, captained by Ryder Cup legend Sergio Garcia, in what promises to be a heady mix of sportsmanship and rivalry. Prepare for a “hole” lot of excitement when fan favourites such as Paul Scholes, John Terry, and Robbie Fowler join England’s charge, while Team World brings a continental flavour with Ruud Gullit, Gabriel Batistuta, and David Ginola under Garcia’s expert eye. Phil Jones, former England and Manchester United favourite, is the latest name to sign up for the golfing face-off slated for March 1 and 2. This marks the inaugural Asian appearance for the Icons Series, and Jones could hardly contain his excitement about the prestigious competition. “This event is absolutely unique. The opportunity to play top-drawer golf with both teammates and former adversaries is thrilling in itself, but doing it in Thailand, famed for its love of sports and fantastic fans, makes it all the more special. It’s like feeling that rush before a crucial derby.” Picture of Paul Ince (left) and Robbie Fowler courtesy of the www.icons-series.com Jones has already been honing his swing with ex-England keeper Joe Hart for a couple of practice rounds, ensuring they don’t find the hazards come the match days. “Joe and I are already planning a few rounds to get our form and team chemistry just right—nothing like bonding over a shared fairway.” Adding a bit of needle to the contest, Jones relishes the prospect of a swing-off against his old Manchester United mate, Nemanja Vidić, now on Team World. “Vidić was as tough as they come on the football pitch. It’ll be strange, yet exciting, taking him on at this golf malarkey. Intensity is his middle name, and I’m sure he’ll bring loads of it.” Having spent time in Thailand during his prime footballing days, Jones knows just what to expect from the passionate Thai locals. “Thai fans are second to none when it comes to enthusiasm. With so many past Manchester United stars in the mix, the crowd will be behind us, and that’s bound to create an electrifying atmosphere.” Over the two-day spectacle, golf fans, both aficionados and novices alike, will be treated to riveting match play formats including Alternate Shots, Fourballs, and Singles. Every crisp swing and nail-biting putt will be in full view, giving fans unparalleled access to the who’s who of footballing and golfing greatness. This novel event doesn’t just bring football legends to the links, it firmly positions Thailand as a top-choice destination for global sports tourism. With the competition being broadcast to over 80 countries and thousands of fans expected to grace the course, the Reignwood Icons of Football is set to deliver unforgettable strokes of genius. Team England, captained by Lee Westwood, features Paul Ince, Robbie Fowler, Joe Hart, Theo Walcott, Paul Scholes, John Terry, Phil Jagielka, Teddy Sheringham, and Phil Jones. Team World, captained by Sergio Garcia, features Dwight Yorke, Patrik Berger, Gabriel Batistuta, Luís Figo, Peter Schmeichel, David Ginola, Ruud Gullit, Nemanja Vidić, Gianfranco Zola, Diego Forlán, and Ronald de Boer. Tickets for Reignwood Icons of Football are now on sale via ticketmelon.com, with options for both general admission and hospitality packages. What are you waiting for? Buy those tickets! You only swing when you’re winning! General Admission Day ticket: 650 baht (Saturday or Sunday) Weekend ticket: 1,100 baht Children under 16: Free entry with a paying adult (maximum two per adult ticket) Hospitality Packages Day ticket: 15,000 baht Weekend ticket: 28,000 baht Under 16 hospitality tickets: 50% off, with a maximum of three per paying adult (proof of age may be required) The hospitality packages include platinum-standard dining, all-inclusive beverages, guest speakers, and live entertainment. In addition, you can enjoy access to the 1st Tee Stadium and on-course VIP areas. This is the first time the Icons Series has come to Thailand, and given the level of talent on display, it possibly won’t be the last. If you’re planning to go, don’t forget—Thaiger readers get an exclusive 50% discount on Hospitality tickets through our platform. Secure yours before they’re gone! For more details, visit www.icons-series.com. The Thaiger -- 2025-02-13

Thai PM Considers Easing Alcohol Sales Rules to Boost Tourism Reference file photo courtesy: mamalovesphuket Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has initiated a review of Thailand’s longstanding afternoon alcohol sales ban, responding to business community calls for regulatory relaxation to enhance tourism. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351638-thai-pm-considers-easing-alcohol-sales-rules-to-boost-tourism/

Reference file photo courtesy: mamalovesphuket Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has initiated a review of Thailand’s longstanding afternoon alcohol sales ban, responding to business community calls for regulatory relaxation to enhance tourism. Government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub confirmed this examination of the 53-year-old rule, originally introduced in 1972 under Thanom Kittikachorn’s coup regime to curb officials drinking during work hours. This outdated regulation is not part of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act and has never been repealed. Business groups have pressured for this ban’s removal, coinciding with planned amendments to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act. These amendments have passed a parliamentary committee and await further readings in the House of Representatives. Following a cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Paetongtarn acknowledged businesses’ concerns that alcohol sales restrictions hinder economic stimulation. She has tasked relevant agencies with reviewing the afternoon ban and the prohibition of alcohol sales on Buddhist holy days, as these impact tourism. Additionally, alcohol sales are prohibited on election days, starting the evening before voting begins. Authorities are also reviewing bans on electronic alcohol sales, sales restrictions in zoned areas, certain Covid-19 era rules, and other regulations established since 1972. Emphasising safety, Prime Minister Paetongtarn stressed preventing easy alcohol access for youths, highlighting the need for responsible sales control. While acknowledging adults’ maturity, she pointed out the necessity for stringent control over who can sell alcohol and in which locations, particularly focusing on youth access. When asked about potentially allowing alcohol sales on Buddhist holy days, Paetongtarn indicated plans to consult a government panel. She noted foreigners’ general unawareness of Thai religious days and related alcohol bans, a factor influencing tourism negatively. Reflecting on the government’s recent declaration of 2025 as the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year, she stated, "This year’s theme is the year of tourism. Therefore, this issue must be reconsidered," underlining tourism’s importance in forthcoming policy evaluations, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-13

New Road Link Promises Stronger Malaysia-Thailand Economic Ties File photo courtesy: The long-anticipated road alignment project connecting Malaysia and Thailand's key border checkpoints is nearing completion, promising to strengthen bilateral trade and ties. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351632-new-road-link-promises-stronger-malaysia-thailand-economic-ties/

File photo courtesy: The long-anticipated road alignment project connecting Malaysia and Thailand's key border checkpoints is nearing completion, promising to strengthen bilateral trade and ties. The project links Malaysia’s Bukit Kayu Hitam Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security (ICQS) complex with Thailand’s Sadao Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine (CIQ) complex, with the road expected to open by the year's end. Ahmad Fahmi Ahmad Sarkawi, the Consul General of Malaysia in Songkhla, confirmed that the new CIQ complex on the Thai side was completed a few years back. However, the road connection faced delays due to technical complications. Once Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim assumed office, he prioritised the project's completion, leading to a resumption in 2023. With technical issues resolved, the road alignment aims for full completion by July or August. The road is anticipated to become operational by the end of 2025, fostering economic benefits for both nations. Additionally, plans for a second bridge linking Rantau Panjang in Kelantan with Sungai Golok in Narathiwat are advancing. The project is addressing final technical details, recognising the complexity and safety demands of bridge construction. Once these are resolved, construction will commence on schedule. Ahmad Fahmi emphasised the transformational impact these infrastructure developments will have on strengthening trade and tourism between Malaysia and Thailand. Furthermore, Thailand plans to enhance CIQ facilities at Wang Kelian and Padang Besar, further bolstering cross-border connections. As of 2023, Thailand holds the position of Malaysia's sixth-largest global trading partner and the second-largest within ASEAN, with trade exchanges amounting to RM113.16 billion (approximately ฿890 billion). These infrastructure projects are set to catalyse even greater economic integration and collaboration between the two countries, reported The Nation. -- 2025-02-13

Khon Kaen Raids Shut Down Paedophile Chat Group File photo of a police dispatch room for reference only In a significant crackdown by the Cyber Crime Investigation Division 3 (CCID3), a 31-year-old man named Warit was apprehended in Khon Kaen for running a paedophile chat group. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351627-khon-kaen-raids-shut-down-paedophile-chat-group/

File photo of a police dispatch room for reference only In a significant crackdown by the Cyber Crime Investigation Division 3 (CCID3), a 31-year-old man named Warit was apprehended in Khon Kaen for running a paedophile chat group. Yesterday, police raided a house in Ban Hat district, leading to the arrest of Warit, who was involved in a disturbing operation uploading videos of sexual assaults on underaged boys to a pay-to-view online chat group. This arrest is part of a broader operation spanning several provinces, including Maha Sarakham, Yasothon, Roi Et, and Nakhon Ratchasima, targeting illegal online activities such as lottery scams and human trafficking rings under the jurisdiction of CCID3. Pol Lt Gen Chatpanthakan Klaiklueng, commander of CCID3, revealed that the arrest stemmed from a tip-off about a chatroom on the Line application. This group allegedly charged a 200-baht entry fee, allowing members to access pornographic images of underaged boys being abused. Warit confessed to luring boys—some as young as 13—to his residence, assaulting them, and posting recordings of the acts in the chatroom. Warit now faces several charges, including sexual assault, human trafficking, procuring boys for sexual purposes, and producing and distributing child pornography. In tandem with the paedophile ring crackdown, CCID3 arrested four individuals linked to illegal online lottery sales in Nakhon Ratchasima, Yasothon, Roi Et, and Maha Sarakham. Police seized mobile phones, ATM cards, computers, and promotional materials related to the illicit lottery operations. Additionally, in Khon Kaen, law enforcement detained two individuals suspected of selling unauthorised online lottery tickets in Phon and Muang districts. Authorities have frozen bank accounts associated with these suspects, collectively containing nearly 300,000 baht (£6,480). Moreover, police arrested a man named Weerachon, 25, at a luxury condominium in downtown Khon Kaen. He was charged with the illegal possession of a 9mm handgun and nine rounds of ammunition. Weerachon had reportedly posted photos on social media with the weapon, displaying it at entertainment venues. These arrests underscore the seriousness of the Thai authorities’ commitment to quashing illicit online activities and protecting vulnerable populations from exploitation and harm, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-13

Thai Boy Coerced by Foreign Schoolmates Raises Safety Concerns Picture courtesy: Daily News In a disturbing incident that has caught attention in Chon Buri, Thailand, a seven-year-old boy was reportedly coerced into inappropriate acts by four older foreign students at a local school. The boy's mother, identified only as Ms A, brought the matter to the Ban Bueng Police after learning of the incident through a friend whose child also attends the same institution. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351625-thai-boy-coerced-by-foreign-schoolmates-raises-safety-concerns/

Picture courtesy: Daily News In a disturbing incident that has caught attention in Chon Buri, Thailand, a seven-year-old boy was reportedly coerced into inappropriate acts by four older foreign students at a local school. The boy's mother, identified only as Ms A, brought the matter to the Ban Bueng Police after learning of the incident through a friend whose child also attends the same institution. According to Ms A, her son and a friend's child were both subjected to this distressing situation by students from Myanmar and Cambodia, aged between 10 and 11 years old. The troubling account, initially posted on social media, has spotlighted the challenges faced by the school in managing a diverse student body with potential age and cultural discrepancies. When Ms A approached the school for clarification, a teacher reportedly dismissed the incident as mere "teasing" amongst children, claiming that her son showed interest in the act himself. However, Ms A firmly refutes this, stating unequivocally that the behaviour was non-consensual and coerced. The school's response has been met with criticism. While they have pledged to increase CCTV surveillance to better monitor student interactions, Ms A doubts the efficacy of such measures in wholly safeguarding children due to the spontaneous nature of these incidents. Moreover, she is concerned about the lack of a formal meeting with the parents of the alleged offenders, which she views as crucial to addressing the issue comprehensively. Broadening her concerns, Ms A highlighted the potential oversight in the school's admission policies, particularly regarding the unusually older age of some foreign students enrolled in the lower grades. She believes this age disparity can lead to vastly different behavioural expectations and interactions. Ms A's experience raises significant questions about the integration and monitoring policies of foreign students in Thai educational institutions. She pressed for an urgent reevaluation of these policies to ensure the safety and well-being of all students, emphasising the need for more stringent admission criteria and enhanced behavioural oversight. This case not only underscores the vulnerabilities that can arise in multicultural educational settings but also the necessity for schools to actively foster safe environments where incidents of such nature are prevented and swiftly addressed. As the situation develops, families and educators alike hope for more robust systems to protect every child's right to a safe educational experience, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-02-13

Thailand Targets Illicit Nominee Businesses and Mule Accounts Reference photo courtest: BDO The Thai government has launched a robust campaign against nominee businesses, prosecuting 820 cases linked to nearly 12.5 billion baht (£272 million) in damages. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351621-thailand-targets-illicit-nominee-businesses-and-mule-accounts/

Reference photo courtest: BDO The Thai government has launched a robust campaign against nominee businesses, prosecuting 820 cases linked to nearly 12.5 billion baht (£272 million) in damages. These actions primarily target enterprises where Thai nationals hold shares on behalf of foreigners, sidestepping the Foreign Business Act. Deputy government spokeswoman Sasikan Wattanachan revealed that multiple agencies, including the Royal Thai Police, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and other key departments, are spearheading the crackdown. This extensive operation aims to dismantle networks that illegally utilise Thai citizens as proxies, particularly in the tourism sector in regions such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Prachuap Khiri Khan. Nominee businesses across various sectors, including online marketplaces, real estate, and land transport, have been identified. This crackdown isn't limited to nominee firms; efforts also focus on the trade of substandard goods and other unlawful practices. In addition, the government is addressing the issue of mule accounts—accounts used to facilitate illegal transactions. The Anti-Online Crime Operation Center has flagged over 204,000 individuals as potential mule account holders. This list, dubbed HR-03, includes both Thai and foreign nationals and has been forwarded to the Central Investigation Bureau, the Anti-Money Laundering Office, and the Department of Special Investigation for action. Authorities believe these mule account holders are connected to 1,159 businesses suspected of engaging in illegal activities or holding such accounts. The operation underlines Thailand's commitment to enforcing business regulations and ensuring a fair economic environment. Ms Sasikan emphasised the government's resolve to root out nominee businesses, halt the distribution of inferior imports, and swiftly close foreign companies operating outside legal bounds. This sweeping initiative aims to bolster economic integrity and protect consumer interests across Thailand, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-02-13

Fire at Thai temple in New York leaves 2 dead Video screenshot NYFD A devestating fire engulfed a Thai Buddhist temple in the Bronx, New York, early Wednesday morning, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. The blaze ignited around 6 a.m. on Anthony Avenue, near East Burnside Avenue and East 180th Street, rapidly consuming the temple and leaving the building heavily damaged. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351619-fire-at-thai-temple-in-new-york-leaves-2-dead/

Video screenshot NYFD A devestating fire engulfed a Thai Buddhist temple in the Bronx, New York, early Wednesday morning, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. The blaze ignited around 6 a.m. on Anthony Avenue, near East Burnside Avenue and East 180th Street, rapidly consuming the temple and leaving the building heavily damaged. Emergency responders faced challenges as vehicles obstructed access to the nearest fire hydrant, delaying their efforts to control the flames. Despite the difficult conditions, firefighters managed to eventually contain the blaze. The identities of the two victims have not yet been released, as officials are working to notify their families. The temple served as a vital cultural and spiritual hub for the local Thai community, making the incident all the more devastating. Local residents, deeply affected by the loss, have begun gathering to support each other in the wake of this tragedy. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire, with initial reports suggesting an electrical fault may be to blame. Community leaders are calling for solidarity and support as the recovery process begins, emphasising the need for safety improvements to prevent such incidents in the future. The material loss of the temple, aside from its cultural significance, could amount to millions of Thai baht, highlighting the economic toll of the disaster, reported NBC New York. -- 2025-02-13

Myanmar to Repatriate 7,000 Call Centre Scam Victims to Thailand Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Myanmar is preparing to return approximately 7,000 victims of call centre scams to Thailand. Phumtham Wechayachai, the Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, confirmed this plan, stressing that these victims should be repatriated directly to their home countries without being temporarily housed in Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351618-myanmar-to-repatriate-7000-call-centre-scam-victims-to-thailand/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Myanmar is preparing to return approximately 7,000 victims of call centre scams to Thailand. Phumtham Wechayachai, the Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, confirmed this plan, stressing that these victims should be repatriated directly to their home countries without being temporarily housed in Thailand. On 12th February, Phumtham announced that 261 victims have already been released, with more awaiting repatriation. He emphasised that Thailand's approach is to coordinate with the victims' home countries so they can be received directly, avoiding any delays in regions like Tak Province. Efforts with various military groups have led to the apprehension of leaders of these scams, who have been enticing individuals, particularly from China, to work for these illicit operations. Legal proceedings against these gang leaders are underway. Embassies from regions including Africa, Latin America, Europe, and Asia—especially Japan, the Philippines, and Indonesia—have confirmed their readiness to welcome their citizens back. Thai authorities, supported by police commissioners, are ensuring that the victims currently housed in Thailand are processed and returned to their respective countries promptly, reported Thai Rath. -- 2025-02-13

Thailand Targets Karen Leader in Cross-Border Crime Crackdown Picture courtesy: Thai Rath Authorities in Thailand are making significant strides in combating cross-border crimes with plans to secure an arrest warrant for Saw Chit Thu, a prominent figure in the Karen Border Guard Force. This move comes amid allegations linking him to illegal activities that cross into Thai territory. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351617-thailand-targets-karen-leader-in-cross-border-crime-crackdown/