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Thaksin and Anutin Strengthen Bond Over Golf Amid Government Rift Rumours Picture courtesy: Amarin TV In a move that appears to soothe rumours of a governmental split, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul enjoyed a game of golf together at the Stone Hill Club in Pathum Thani Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346919-thaksin-and-anutin-strengthen-bond-over-golf-amid-government-rift-rumours/

Picture courtesy: Amarin TV In a move that appears to soothe rumours of a governmental split, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra and Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul enjoyed a game of golf together at the Stone Hill Club in Pathum Thani on 22nd December. They were joined by energy moguls Sarath Ratanavadi and Pongrapee Indrajang from leading Thai corporations. Recent tensions have reportedly simmered between the Pheu Thai Party and the Bhumjaithai Party in the coalition government. The discord intensified after Thaksin's remarks at a Pheu Thai seminar on 13th December, criticising coalition partners who failed to attend a significant cabinet meeting concerning a tax decree, labelling them as "saboteurs." Additionally, Pheu Thai has launched a campaign emphasising the importance of unity for constitutional amendments, encouraging voters not to be swayed by "double agents" - a reference to the Bhumjaithai Party's opposing vote on a referendum bill. This occurrence suggested internal disagreements over the coalition’s legislative direction. Nonetheless, the golf outing seems to be a gesture towards mending fences and presenting a united front amidst the political turbulence. -- 2024-12-23

Moei River from the Thai border looking at Myanmar. File photo courtesy: Wikimedia In response to a growing cholera threat originating from Shwe Kokko, Myanmar, Thai authorities have initiated crucial measures to prevent the disease from spreading across the border into Tak province. With approximately 200 cases reported on the Myanmar side, Thai officials are keen to contain the situation to protect local communities and their inhabitants. The Public Health Ministry in Thailand swiftly reacted by establishing an emergency operations centre (EOC) in Tak. This centre, directed by Dr. Supachok Wechaphanphesat, is tasked with overseeing cholera preparedness and response efforts in the region. The EOC will focus on monitoring health conditions in border areas, factories, and refugee camps while ensuring the safety of drinking water and promoting hygiene practices among locals and migrants alike. Cholera, a waterborne disease known for causing severe dehydration and diarrhoea, poses significant risks during mass gatherings and in densely populated areas. With Tak's proximity to Shwe Kokko, Mae Ramat and Mae Sot districts have been identified as high-risk zones, particularly during the festive New Year period. These areas host a plethora of factories and migrant communities, increasing the likelihood of spread through social interactions and shared meals. Reports indicate that two cases have already been confirmed in Mae Sot district, both involving individuals from Myanmar who frequently cross the border for work. These patients exhibited mild symptoms and have since received treatment at Mae Sot Hospital. There is evidence suggesting that a newborn's relative contracted the disease while visiting the Thai side following a birth. The situation across the border is dire, with Shwe Kokko recording two fatalities in addition to the soaring number of cases. Both Chinese employers and their Myanmar employees have been significantly impacted. In response, Thai soldiers have intensified patrols along border regions, specifically in Mae Ramat and Mae Sot, to curtail illegal crossings that could exacerbate the situation. Efforts to mitigate this potential public health crisis include sharing medical supplies with Myanmar counterparts and developing rapid test kits for immediate diagnosis and treatment. Thai authorities stress the importance of maintaining personal hygiene and consuming thoroughly cooked food as essential preventive measures. As the situation unfolds, maintaining open communication and cooperation between Thai and Myanmar health authorities will be vital in controlling this cholera outbreak, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2024-12-23

Brazen Robbery: Two Thieves Assault & Rob Chinese Tourist in Pattaya A shocking incident occurred in Pattaya when two assailants attacked and robbed a Chinese tourist in front of his friends. The crime, which took place near Soi 1 on Pattaya Second Road in Naklua, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province, has raised serious concerns about tourist safety in the city. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346840-brazen-robbery-two-thieves-assault-rob-chinese-tourist-in-pattaya/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 23 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1346865-thailand-live-monday-23-december-2024/

Drunken Foreigner Causes Panic in Pattaya, Wandering Half Naked & Armed with a Knife A foreign tourist caused a scene of panic in a Pattaya condominium early morning when he wandered the building half naked, brandishing a knife and knocking on doors. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346841-drunken-foreigner-causes-panic-in-pattaya-wandering-half-naked-armed-with-a-knife/

Foreign Tourist Performs Dangerous Motorcycle Stunt on Koh Samui Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 28-year-old Dutch tourist was caught on video performing a reckless motorcycle stunt on Koh Samui, later admitting he was unaware of the local traffic laws. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346850-foreign-tourist-performs-dangerous-motorcycle-stunt-on-koh-samui/

video screenshot Foreign Tourist Swallows Traffic Ticket in Odd Pattaya Incident In an unusual scene in Pattaya on Saturday, a foreign visitor attempted to evade a traffic violation by swallowing his ticket. Stopped at a checkpoint outside the Pattaya police station, the shirtless man on a motorcycle was caught without a helmet or valid driving licence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346864-foreign-tourist-swallows-traffic-ticket-in-odd-pattaya-incident/

Transwoman arrested for explicit online content in Korat by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Police have apprehended a transwoman involved in producing and distributing explicit content online, following a discovery of over 120 illicit clips. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346867-transwoman-arrested-for-explicit-online-content-in-korat/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Police have apprehended a transwoman involved in producing and distributing explicit content online, following a discovery of over 120 illicit clips. The operation, led by high-ranking officials, targeted a transgender individual identified as 37 year old Natthakan, accused of creating and circulating pornographic material and uploading it to a computer system. The arrest took place at a residence in the city of Nakhon Ratchasima. The investigation began when police officers discovered an online profile named “Fanta (Formerly Banned)” on a social media platform, which was being used to share explicit images and videos. The profile also advertised access to a private group where additional content could be viewed for a membership fee of 300 baht. Officers deployed undercover agents into the group, where they found numerous explicit videos depicting sexual acts between the transgender suspect and various men. Further investigation confirmed that Natthakan operated the account and appeared in the videos. This led officials to gather evidence and obtain a warrant for a search and arrest. During questioning, Natthakan confessed to owning the account and charging fees for access to the explicit content. The men appearing in the videos were reportedly hired through a dating app, and most of the recordings took place in a private room and a personal car. “I am the owner of the account on the platform and charged for access to the explicit content. The men in the videos were hired through a dating app.” The police have taken Natthakan into custody and handed the case over to investigators at the Division 3 of the Anti-Human Trafficking Division for further legal proceedings, reported KhaoSod. In related news, a Thai woman took to social media to expose her employer, a restaurant owner in the Isaan province of Khon Kaen, for sexually harassing her by sending lewd messages and pictures, including an image of his penis. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-22

Shirtless tourist swallows traffic ticket in Pattaya police standoff Photo of Mitch Connor Picture courtesy of Chaiyot Pupattanapong A peculiar scene unfolded in Pattaya when a foreign visitor was apprehended after an unusual attempt to dispose of a traffic ticket. This muscular traveller, who was riding a motorcycle shirtless and without a helmet, was stopped by police at a checkpoint situated in front of the Pattaya police station. Picture courtesy of fm91bkk Upon being asked to present his driving licence, the visitor refused, prompting the officers to issue him a ticket for his infractions. In a surprising turn of events, he accepted the ticket, proceeded to swallow it, and then washed it down with water, reported Bangkok Post. AdvertisementsEfforts by the police to secure the front wheel of his motorcycle and handcuff him proved challenging. Despite the initial resistance, he eventually consented to accompany the officers to the police station to face prosecution. Picture courtesy of fm91bkk Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-22

Foreign Tourist Swallows Traffic Ticket in Odd Pattaya Incident video screenshot In an unusual scene in Pattaya on Saturday, a foreign visitor attempted to evade a traffic violation by swallowing his ticket. Stopped at a checkpoint outside the Pattaya police station, the shirtless man on a motorcycle was caught without a helmet or valid driving licence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346864-foreign-tourist-swallows-traffic-ticket-in-odd-pattaya-incident/

video screenshot In an unusual scene in Pattaya on Saturday, a foreign visitor attempted to evade a traffic violation by swallowing his ticket. Stopped at a checkpoint outside the Pattaya police station, the shirtless man on a motorcycle was caught without a helmet or valid driving licence. When issued a traffic citation for these infractions, the visitor bizarrely ingested the ticket, washing it down with water, surprising officers and bystanders alike. Police immobilised his motorcycle by locking its front wheel, and despite his initial resistance to arrest, the man eventually agreed to enter the police station for processing. This incident sheds light on the cultural and behavioural challenges faced by Pattaya authorities, emphasising the critical need for tourists to respect local laws. While fines for such violations typically total several thousand Thai Baht, this situation highlights the ongoing struggle of ensuring effective enforcement among international visitors. Ultimately, the encounter adds to Pattaya’s trove of quirky tourist stories, reminding all of the importance of adhering to local customs and regulations. -- 2024-12-22

Three sentenced to death for German’s murder in Pattaya by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News The Pattaya Provincial Court has delivered a verdict in a high-profile murder case, sentencing three people to death for the murder and dismemberment of Hans Peter Ralter Mack, a 62 year old German real estate businessman. The crime, which took place in Pattaya on July 5 last year, shocked the local and international communities due to its gruesome nature. Police revealed that Mack was murdered, dismembered, and his remains concealed, leading to an intense investigation that ultimately identified and apprehended the suspects. The case drew significant media coverage, highlighting the disturbing details and the swift actions taken by law enforcement to solve the crime. The court’s decision to impose the death penalty reflects the severity of the crime and its impact on the community. Legal proceedings examined evidence meticulously, ensuring that justice was served for the victim and his family. The sentencing aims to send a strong message against such heinous acts, reinforcing the importance of safety and justice in society. “This case has been a priority for our law enforcement agencies, and we are committed to maintaining security in our region.” Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News The crime scene and subsequent investigation were subjects of intense scrutiny, with forensic teams working diligently to piece together the events leading to Mack’s untimely death. The evidence gathered played a crucial role in securing convictions for the three individuals involved. Public interest in the case remained high, with many expressing relief at the conclusion of the trial and the sentences handed down. The case has also sparked discussions on crime prevention and the effectiveness of the judicial system in dealing with violent crimes. Mack’s family, who have been seeking justice since the incident, have expressed their gratitude for the police and judicial system’s efforts. The outcome of the case provides some solace, although the loss remains deeply felt. The Pattaya community has been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to prevent similar incidents. Police emphasise the need for cooperation between the public and law enforcement to uphold safety and security in the area, reported The Pattaya News. Photo courtesy of The Pattaya News ORIGINAL STORY: Murder suspect of Hans Peter Mack case pleads innocence Pattaya City was recently shocked by the brutal murder of 62 year old Hans Peter Mack, where a Pakistani-Thai man says he was implicated in a gruesome act against his will. The 27 year old suspect, Shahrukh Karim Uddin, who possesses Thai citizenship despite his Pakistani origin, denies the accusations. He claims that the main instigator, 52 year old German Olaf Brinkmann, coerced him into becoming an unwilling participant in the disposal of the victim’s body. Last night, Uddin was taken into custody for questioning by the local authorities. Major Wachirawit Wisutsaereepan from the Nongprue Police stated that Uddin displayed significant cooperation during his interrogation, consistently maintaining his innocence despite the serious charges levelled against him. In contrast, the other primary suspects, Brinkmann and 54 year old Petra Grundgreif, have remained tight-lipped about the incident. Their reluctance to cooperate with the police has led to their cases being handled by their respective legal teams, according to Major Wachirawit. Uddin, for his part, has communicated effectively with investigators, a gesture that only heightened his plea for assistance from Lieutenant General Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, Deputy Commissioner of the Thai Police. He wishes for his claims of innocence to be investigated independently. In the meantime, he pleaded not to be confined with Brinkmann in the same prison. Consequently, Uddin was transferred from Nongprue Police Station to Banglamung Police Station to ensure that he remains separated from the alleged ringleader. While leaving Nongprue Police Station, Uddin told reporters through teary eyes… “I did not kill Mr Mack. I was forced against my will to assist Brinkmann because I fear for my life.” His 30 year old elder brother, whose name remains undisclosed due to safety concerns, echoed Shahruek’s sentiments. He said… “My younger brother told me that he was forced by Olaf, the German suspect, to participate. Olaf threatened to harm and kidnap Uddin’s wife and sister and even threatened to kill his parents if he did not participate Uddin said Olaf even held a gun to his head when threatening him to help.” The brother further stated their family’s intention to reach out to Big Joke, for assistance and justice. He added… “He is very worried and afraid to meet Olaf in prison as he believes Olaf or his associates in various gangs and clubs will kill him for speaking out.” In line with Uddin’s fears and his family’s request, the police authorities have decided to keep him in a separate location from Brinkmann for his safety. They have ensured Uddin is kept out of the general population as an extra measure towards his well-being. Aside from the murder case, Chon Buri police have reportedly committed to scrutinising any possible criminal undertakings within the local motorcycle club communities, which could potentially unmask a network of unlawful activities connected to this heinous incident, reported The Pattaya News. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-21

Thailand braces for cold spell with mountain lows of 5 degrees by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Thailand is experiencing a cold spell today, with mountain peak temperatures dropping to a minimum of 5 degrees Celsius (°C). Fog blankets Bangkok this morning, while the south faces thunderstorms due to moderate monsoon winds. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346821-thailand-braces-for-cold-spell-with-mountain-lows-of-5-degrees/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Thailand is experiencing a cold spell today, with mountain peak temperatures dropping to a minimum of 5 degrees Celsius (°C). Fog blankets Bangkok this morning, while the south faces thunderstorms due to moderate monsoon winds. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) forecasts a chilling climate for the next 24 hours as a moderate cold air mass settles over northern and upper southern Thailand. This climatic condition brings cold weather with morning fog across the upper regions. Northeastern and northern areas are notably cooler, with mountain peaks experiencing very cold to freezing conditions and occasional frost. Residents in these regions are advised to maintain their health amidst the cold and remain cautious of potential fire hazards due to dry, windy conditions. TMD warns of cold to freezing weather today, particularly in the north. Meanwhile, the northeast monsoon sweeping across the Gulf of Thailand and the south has resulted in scattered thunderstorms in the lower southern region. Waves in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea are moderate, with the lower Gulf seeing waves up to 2 metres high. Areas experiencing thunderstorms could see waves exceeding 2 metres, prompting a warning for seafarers to exercise caution and avoid areas with thunderstorms. “Dust and haze accumulation in upper Thailand remains moderate due to prevailing winds and ventilation.” Weather forecast The northern region will be chilly to cold with light morning fog. Temperatures range from 15 to 18°C, peaking at 29 to 31°C. Mountain peaks are very cold, with lows between 5 and 12°C and occasional frost. Northeasterly winds blow at 10 to 15 kilometres per hour (km/h). The northeastern region sees temperatures ranging from 12 to 17°C, reaching highs of 28 to 31°C. Mountain peaks are very cold, with lows between 7 and 12°C. Northeasterly winds range from 10 to 25 km/h. The central region will be chilly, with morning fog. Temperatures range from 17 to 19°C, peaking at 31 to 32°C. Northeasterly winds blow at 10 to 20 km/h. The eastern region will see temperatures ranging from 17 to 21°C, with highs of 30 to 32°C. Northeasterly winds range from 15 to 30 km/h. Seas have waves about 1 metre high, increasing to 1 to 2 metres offshore. The southern region (east coast) have cool mornings in the upper part, with thunderstorms affecting 20% of areas, mainly in Phatthalung, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Temperatures range from 19 to 26°C, peaking at 28 to 32°C. Northeasterly winds range from 15 to 35 km/h, with sea waves between 1 and 2 metres. Areas with thunderstorms may see waves exceeding 2 metres. From Songkhla southward, winds range from 20 to 35 km/h, with sea waves about 2 metres high, reported KhaoSod. The southern region (west coast) will see thunderstorms affecting 10% of areas, mainly in Trang and Satun. Temperatures range from 23 to 25°C, with highs of 32 to 34°C. Northeasterly winds range from 15 to 30 km/h. Sea waves are about 1 metre high, increasing to 1 to 2 metres offshore. Areas with thunderstorms may see waves exceeding 2 metres. Bangkok and its vicinity will have temperatures ranging from 19 to 21°C, with highs of 29 to 32°C. Northeasterly winds blow at 10 to 20 km/h. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-21

Thai Court Rules Traffic Fines Can't Block Vehicle Tax Renewal Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a landmark decision, Thailand's Administrative Court has ruled that outstanding traffic fines cannot be used as grounds to deny motorists their annual vehicle tax renewal. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346811-thai-court-rules-traffic-fines-cant-block-vehicle-tax-renewal/

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath In a landmark decision, Thailand's Administrative Court has ruled that outstanding traffic fines cannot be used as grounds to deny motorists their annual vehicle tax renewal. This case revolved around Amnat Kaewprasong, who faced an unexpected hurdle when the Bangkok office of the Department of Land Transport refused to issue his tax decal due to an unpaid 500 baht fine related to a speeding offence. Kaewprasong brought the issue to court, arguing that the denial was both unjust and contrary to legal procedures. The court sided with him, instructing the Department of Land Transport to provide the necessary vehicle tax decal within three days from the date the judgement took effect. Additionally, the court mandated compensation to Kaewprasong of 3,151.50 baht for the inconvenience caused, along with interest at a rate of 3% per annum. The crux of the court's decision emphasised that while an electronic data-sharing agreement between the Department of Land Transport and the Royal Thai Police was in place to streamline enforcement of traffic regulations, the police failed to adhere to required legal procedures. Notably, the traffic department had not issued the formal notices required by law for the unpaid fine, nor was there evidence of communication regarding the non-compliance. Without such notifications, the court maintained that the department had overreached its authority by refusing the tax renewal. The decision sets a significant precedent, reinforcing the principle that due process must be followed, and outstanding fines alone cannot justify withholding essential documents like a vehicle tax decal. By ensuring these checks and balances are respected, the ruling protects motorists from bureaucratic overreach and underscores the need for lawful and transparent communication between governmental bodies and the public. This outcome is likely to have wider implications for how traffic fines are enforced and may prompt procedural reforms within the involved agencies to avoid similar situations in the future, reported Thai Rath. -- 2024-12-21

Thaksin Outlines Vision for Transforming Thailand's Northeast File photo courtesy: Facebook sorrayuth9115 In a speech at Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has unveiled an ambitious new vision for the Isaan region. Speaking under the theme "The Future of Isaan: Opportunities for Thailand," Thaksin called for sweeping changes across education, technology, and economic policies to rejuvenate the oft-overlooked Northeastern Thailand. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346793-thaksin-outlines-vision-for-transforming-thailands-northeast/

Thai F-16 Fighters Intercept Myanmar Jet in Airspace Breach F-16 file photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a swift response to a potential security threat yesterday, two F-16 fighters from the Thai air force were deployed to intercept an unidentified aircraft intruding into Thai airspace. This incident occurred over Popphra district in Tak province, which borders Myawaddy township in Myanmar. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346806-thai-f-16-fighters-intercept-myanmar-jet-in-airspace-breach/

F-16 file photo courtesy: Wikipedia In a swift response to a potential security threat yesterday, two F-16 fighters from the Thai air force were deployed to intercept an unidentified aircraft intruding into Thai airspace. This incident occurred over Popphra district in Tak province, which borders Myawaddy township in Myanmar. The alert was raised at around 11 a.m. when radar systems detected the aircraft entering Thai airspace at an altitude of 4,000-5,000 feet. The air force's interception flight control promptly ordered the F-16s to take off from their base at Wing 4 in Takhli district, Nakhon Sawan province. The fighters ascended to 7,000 feet, on a mission to identify and potentially ward off the intruding jet. The quick deployment underscores the air force's readiness to protect national sovereignty and the integrity of Thailand’s airspace, as stressed by ACM Prapass Sonjai, the air force spokesman. "The rapid interception underscores our capability to respond to threats and ensure security for our citizens near border areas," he stated. Upon reaching the location, the Thai jets discovered that the intruding aircraft had vanished from radar screens. Concluding the initial phase of their mission, the F-16s continued to patrol the border region until returning safely to base at 12:14 p.m. While the aircraft's origin remains officially unidentified, this incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding airspace violations and regional tensions. The interception demonstrates Thailand's proactive stance in safeguarding its airspace, particularly along volatile border areas where incursions, whether accidental or deliberate, pose severe security risks. Such operations are critical in maintaining regional peace and stability, showcasing Thailand’s capabilities and commitment to defending its boundaries. It's pivotal for the Thai air force to remain vigilant and prepared for any future breaches that could escalate into broader conflicts. As the incident demonstrated no immediate threat, diplomatic channels may play a role in addressing and preventing future airspace violations, potentially easing tensions between neighbouring nations. This event spotlights the continuing necessity for robust air defense mechanisms and international cooperation to prevent misunderstandings that could lead to more significant regional issues. The air force's decisive action reflects its vital role in national security, promising steadfast protection of the airspace across Thailand, reported Thai Newsroom. -- 2024-12-21

File photo courtesy: Facebook sorrayuth9115 In a speech at Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has unveiled an ambitious new vision for the Isaan region. Speaking under the theme "The Future of Isaan: Opportunities for Thailand," Thaksin called for sweeping changes across education, technology, and economic policies to rejuvenate the oft-overlooked Northeastern Thailand. Stressing the significance of education, Thaksin proposed creating a university focused on human development in Isaan. This institution would prioritise practical knowledge alongside traditional learning, with a strong emphasis on integrating technology. "Education should not stop at degrees," he remarked, "It should empower Isaan people to thrive in a modern economy." Innovative ideas, like using lottery funds to either send students abroad or bring foreign teachers into summer camps, formed part of his educational strategy. Thaksin referenced his earlier successes with model schools and suggested these could be revived to foster a new generation of skilled workers. Thaksin didn't shy away from critiquing existing practices such as monopolistic approaches in critical sectors like rice exports. He urged the government to harness technology, enabling local farmers to reach international markets through e-commerce. This shift could drastically reduce intermediaries and increase profits at the grassroots level. Further, he proposed modernising the OTOP (One Tambon One Product) programme with AI and soft power techniques, which would bolster Isaan as a competitive hub. Universities, envisioned as centres for AI learning, could drive this initiative, equipping locals with the skills necessary for a changing economic landscape. Tackling Thailand’s ballooning public debt—over 60% of GDP—Thaksin suggested issuing public-oriented cryptocurrency-backed bonds. This maneuver could inject needed capital into regional economies, potentially increasing GDP growth from the current 2% to a robust 4%. He highlighted the financial imbalances where profits are siphoned to Bangkok, leaving Isaan economically parched, implying bonds tailored for Isaan might just provide the financial liberation the region needs. Labour migration remains a pressing issue, with skilled workers flocking to Bangkok for better opportunities. Thaksin proposed strengthening local job creation and enhancing educational prospects to lure talent back. Finally, addressing alarming drug abuse rates among the youth, Thaksin cited current governmental efforts to curb this trend through proactive measures, underscoring that social development must go hand in hand with economic reforms. Thaksin’s vision represents a comprehensive plan to elevate Isaan, aiming to maximise its potential by addressing both structural and societal challenges head-on. With these reforms, Isaan may very well be on the cusp of a revitalisation, reported The Nation. -- 2024-12-21

Picture courtesy: Siam Rath PATTAYA - In a chilling case that gripped international audiences, the Pattaya Provincial Court has handed down death sentences to three individuals involved in the murder of Hans Peter Ralter Mack, a 62-year-old German property mogul. The murder, which occurred on 5th July 2023, involved abduction, killing, and dismemberment, creating shockwaves due to its brutality. The heinous crime took place in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung, Chonburi. Following intense investigations, Region 2 Provincial Police and Nong Prue police apprehended Olaf Thorsten Brinkmann, 52, along with his accomplices, Petra Christl Grundgreif, 54, and Shahruik Karim Uddin, 27, a Thai national of Pakistani descent. The group was accused of luring Mack to his death, dismembering his body, and attempting to dispose of the remains at sea. They also allegedly transferred 3,350,000 baht from Mack's bank accounts. On 20th December, the courtroom witnessed a decisive judgement. All three defendants were found guilty of premeditated murder and body concealment. Olaf Brinkmann and Petra Grundgreif confessed to their roles, which led to a reduction of their sentences from death to life imprisonment. Shahruik Uddin, however, continued to assert his innocence throughout the trial and received the death penalty. This conviction follows a previous ruling on 22nd November. Enrico, another German national, was sentenced to six years in prison for his involvement in financial transactions linked to the crime. Charged with allowing his account to be used for monetary transfers from Olaf Brinkmann, he was found guilty of facilitating the crime and handling stolen property, reported Siam Rath. Picture courtesy: Daily ews -- 2024-12-21

Three Sentenced to Death for Murder and Dismemberment of German Businessman in Pattaya Picture courtesy: Siam Rath PATTAYA - In a chilling case that gripped international audiences, the Pattaya Provincial Court has handed down death sentences to three individuals involved in the murder of Hans Peter Ralter Mack, a 62-year-old German property mogul. The murder, which occurred on 5th July 2023, involved abduction, killing, and dismemberment, creating shockwaves due to its brutality. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346791-three-sentenced-to-death-for-murder-and-dismemberment-of-german-businessman-in-pattaya/

Thai Virologist Dismisses Norovirus Outbreak 'Fake News' Dr. Yong. File photo courtesy: NNT A wave of concern has swept through Thailand following rumours of an alleged norovirus outbreak. However, experts, including a leading virologist from Chulalongkorn University, are urging calm, labelling the reports as misinformation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1346757-thai-virologist-dismisses-norovirus-outbreak-fake-news/