Georgealbert

Two young students from Wat Lad Bua Khao School are being hailed as heroes after their brave act of saving a woman who had jumped from the Bangkok Bridge into the Chao Phraya River. The incident, which could have ended tragically, has left netizens deeply impressed by the boys' courage. The story gained widespread attention on social media after it was reported on November 22, around 19:30. According to a post by the volunteer rescue organisation, Bang Phong Phang Foundation, a 17- year-old woman had leapt from the Bangkok Bridge in an apparent attempt to end her life. Fortunately, the two 12 year old students, witnessing the event, immediately jumped into the river to rescue her. With remarkable bravery and quick action, they managed to pull the woman to safety. After being brought ashore, volunteers provided first aid before transporting her to Charoenkrung Pracharak Hospital for further care. The rescue, captured on video and shared widely online, has drawn overwhelming praise for the boys' heroic deed. Social media users have expressed admiration for their courage and selflessness, celebrating the young students as role models for their peers. Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Video from Bang Phong Phang Foundation Facebook. -- 2024-11-24 ScreenRecording_11-23-2024 16-54-38_1.mp4

Sisaket Governor Anupong Suksomnit assigned Deputy Governor Suriya Butchinda, along with Sukhit Luangsakulthai, District Chief of Sisaket, and Amorn Nambut, Acting District Chief of Sisaket City, to lead a joint operation targeting illegal activities in the area. The raid on November 22, at 13.30, was conducted in coordination with local law enforcement, public health officials, and the provincial anti-narcotics centre. The operation was launched following complaints submitted by local residents through the Sisaket Provincial Damrongtham Center. Residents reported disturbances caused by a shop known as “Bang Top,” located within a dormitory complex in Phanta Yai Community, Sisaket City Municipality. The shop was accused of openly selling kratom-infused drinks, cannabis, and e-cigarettes to students and the public 24/7, causing significant disruption in the neighbourhood. Upon arrival, authorities discovered three individuals operating the illegal shop: • Thanaphat Meeboon, 20, from Khukhan District, Sisaket • Theerapat Duanyai, 22, from Wang Hin District, Sisaket • Dechawat Songmuang, 22, from Det Udom District, Ubon Ratchathani The suspects were caught producing kratom-infused drinks and selling cannabis and e-cigarettes. A search of the premises revealed a large stash of contraband and equipment, including: • 2,380 foreign-brand cigarettes • 170 e-cigarette pods • 1,719 bottles of cough syrup • 6 kratom-boiling pots • 26 bottles of kratom-infused drinks • 10 kilograms of cannabis flower buds • 4,224 empty bottles • Business signage, weighing scales, and cash totaling 296,480 baht Authorities seized all items as evidence. The suspects were charged with multiple offenses, including: 1. Producing and selling food products (kratom) in violation of the Food Act of 1979. 2. Selling modern medicine without authorization under the Medicine Act of 1967. 3. Possession of untaxed goods (foreign cigarettes) under the Excise Tax Act of 2017. 4. Selling controlled herbs (cannabis) without permission under the Traditional Thai Medicine Wisdom Protection Act of 1999. 5. Violating regulations prohibiting the sale of e-cigarettes and related products under Consumer Protection Committee Order 27/2567. Notably, this shop had been raided three times in the past but continued its illegal activities, reopening in the same location with a larger operation. Despite repeated warnings, the operators showed blatant disregard for the law. The three suspects, along with the confiscated items, were taken into custody and handed over to the Sisaket City Police for further legal proceedings. Picture from the raid. -- 2024-11-24

Village Chief Discovers Five Grenades During Road Construction in Phayao A shocking discovery of five hand grenades halted a road construction project in Huai Pum Village, Chiang Kham District. The explosives, believed to date back to the Communist insurgency era, were safely removed and destroyed by authorities. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1344372-village-chief-discovers-five-grenades-during-road-construction-in-phayao/

In the early hours of November 23, local authorities and police raided a well-known bar in South Pattaya for violating operating hours, disrupting a lively night for patrons and employees. Led by Lieutenant Chonlathit Layananon, Deputy District Chief of Chonburi Province, and Police Lieutenant Colonel Sirachat Nuthes, Deputy Superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station, a team of officials carried out an inspection of nightlife venues in Bang Lamung District. The operation aimed to ensure compliance with entertainment regulations, focusing on Pattaya’s entertainment hotspots. During the sweep, officers discovered the Thonglor Pattaya bar in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung District, still in full swing after 03.00. The venue was operating with flashing lights, loud music, and patrons enjoying drinks and dancing. Authorities entered the bar unannounced, immediately ordering staff to cease activities, turn off the music, and turn on the lights. Patrons and staff were separated for identity checks, while urine tests were conducted to screen for drug use. Initial investigations revealed no illegal substances or contraband on the premises. The bar’s manager, identified as Mr. Surawit 24, was taken into custody. He faces charges for operating an entertainment venue beyond permitted hours. The case has been handed over to Pattaya City Police Station for further legal proceedings. This raid underscores the ongoing efforts by Chonburi provincial authorities to enforce regulations on nightlife establishments and curb unlawful activities in the Pattaya area. Picture of the raid. -- 2024-11-24

5,000 Litres of Smuggled Fuel Seized in Satun Waters Authorities have seized 5,000 litres of untaxed fuel and apprehended two suspects in a joint operation targeting fuel smuggling in the coastal waters of Satun Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1344371-5000-litres-of-smuggled-fuel-seized-in-satun-waters/

Electric Tricycle Fire Causes Injury and Property Damage in Mae Hong Son Mae Hong Son City Police, under the direction of Pol. Col. Pasawin Kaewtai, reported a fire incident on November 23, at approximately 02:55. Pol. Lt. Boonrub Yubon, the investigating officer, was alerted by the Sam Mok Radio Centre about an electric tricycle catching fire. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1344370-electric-tricycle-fire-causes-injury-and-property-damage-in-mae-hong-son/

A shocking discovery of five hand grenades halted a road construction project in Huai Pum Village, Chiang Kham District, on November 22. The explosives, believed to date back to the Communist insurgency era, were safely removed and destroyed by authorities. Police Captain Worakorn Onkhoksung, Commander of Border Patrol Police Company 326, was alerted to the incident by the village chief of Huai Pum, Moo 14, Rom Yen Subdistrict. The grenades were found along the roadside near a mango orchard on the route leading to the remote mountain village. Upon arrival, an explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) team from Border Patrol Police Division 32 secured the site. The grenades, identified as old but fully functional Chinese-made fragmentation hand grenades, were discovered in a metal box near the orchard. Officers placed protective rubber tires over the devices and established a 200-metre safety perimeter. Preliminary inspections confirmed that the grenades remained intact and operational, with a blast radius of approximately 20 metres. Authorities suspect the explosives were remnants of the Communist insurgency, as the village is located in a mountainous area near the border between Thailand and Laos, historically a conflict zone. The village chief explained that the grenades were uncovered during excavation work for the road construction project. “While supervising the roadwork near the mango orchard, I noticed objects resembling old grenades in the soil. I immediately reported it to the local Border Patrol Police base,” he said. The EOD team safely retrieved the grenades, recorded the incident, and later conducted a controlled detonation to neutralise the threat. Authorities have reiterated the importance of vigilance in areas near former conflict zones, urging locals to report any suspicious objects to ensure public safety. Picture courtesy of EOD team. -- 2024-11-24

Authorities have seized 5,000 litres of untaxed fuel and apprehended two suspects in a joint operation targeting fuel smuggling in the coastal waters of Satun Province. On November 22, officers from the Royal Thai Navy’s Third Naval Area Command, led by Captain Santi Buanium, Deputy Director of the Maritime Enforcement Command Center for Satun, and Captain Rattapon Kaekrachai, head of the Satun Provincial Naval Task Force, launched the operation following intelligence reports. The reports indicated illegal fuel transfers along the coastline near Ban Nern Soong in Tambon Tanyong Po, Muang District. During the operation, authorities discovered a local fishing boat and a silver Toyota pickup truck parked near a makeshift pier. The boat was actively transferring untaxed diesel fuel into containers loaded onto the truck. Upon inspection, officials found 4,000 litres of diesel stored on the boat, a blue-and-red vessel weighing 12 gross tons, and an additional 1,000 litres in barrels in the truck’s cargo area. The boat’s operator, identified as Mr. Bawra 54, a resident of Tambon Tammalang, and the truck driver, Mr. Fittree 18, a resident of Tambon Yan Sue, were taken into custody. Neither suspect could produce tax payment documents for the fuel. Both men were charged under Section 203 of the Excise Tax Act B.E. 2560 for possessing goods that had not been taxed. The suspects agreed to pay fines totaling 161,000 baht, with Mr. Bawra fined 128,800 baht and Mr. Fittree fined 32,200 baht. The confiscated fuel was handed over to the Satun Provincial Excise Office for further examination. The arrests were recorded at Muang Satun Police Station as part of the Royal Thai Navy’s ongoing crackdown on illegal maritime smuggling, in line with national directives to combat tax evasion and other unlawful activities in Thailand’s coastal regions. Picture courtesy of RTN -- 2024-11-24

Mae Hong Son City Police, under the direction of Pol. Col. Pasawin Kaewtai, reported a fire incident on November 23, at approximately 02:55. Pol. Lt. Boonrub Yubon, the investigating officer, was alerted by the Sam Mok Radio Centre about an electric tricycle catching fire. The incident occurred at house number 24/1 on Phadung Muay To Road in Chong Kham Subdistrict, Mueang District, Mae Hong Son Province. Upon arrival at the scene, officers found an almost completely burned electric tricycle parked in front of the house. The fire also damaged the eaves of the house. The homeowner, identified as 74-year-old Mrs. Thepin Pongwadi, sustained burn injuries while attempting to turn off the electrical breaker and passing by the burning vehicle. She was taken to Srisangwal Hospital for treatment. Authorities documented the scene and captured photographic evidence. According to an investigation involving eyewitness accounts and Mrs. Thepin’s statement, the fire likely originated from the electric tricycle. On November 22, at approximately 18:00, Mrs. Thepin had been charging the tricycle parked in front of her house. Around 02:20, a neighbour’s dog barked unusually loudly, prompting Mrs. Thepin and the neighbor to check outside. They discovered the electric tricycle ablaze, with the flames spreading to the eaves of the house. Neighbours worked together to extinguish the fire, using fire extinguishers and a hose pipe. While trying to switch off the electrical breaker, Mrs. Thepin sustained injuries as she passed by the burning tricycle. Fortunately, neighbours managed to put out the fire before it spread further. The exact cost of the damages is still being assessed. Authorities will collaborate with forensic specialists in Mae Hong Son to investigate the cause of the fire further. The incident serves as a reminder of the potential risks associated with charging electric vehicles and the importance of proper safety measures. Picture from responders. -- 2024-11-24

Unlucky 25-Year-Old Assaulted, Then Arrested for Possessing Crystal Meth A 25-year-old man in Pattaya had an unfortunate turn of events early morning. After being assaulted by two assailants, he was found in possession of crystal methamphetamine and promptly arrested by police. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1344369-unlucky-25-year-old-assaulted-then-arrested-for-possessing-crystal-meth/

Police Bust Illegal Vehicle Trading Network, Seize Over 83 Items Worth 5 Million Baht The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), led by the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), has dismantled a criminal network involved in the illegal sale of “pawned vehicles” and other unlawfully obtained automobiles. The operation, conducted across multiple provinces, resulted in the arrest of six suspects and the seizure of 83 items, including vehicles and other related equipment, valued at over 5 million baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1344368-police-bust-illegal-vehicle-trading-network-seize-over-83-items-worth-5-million-baht/

Security Guard Arrested as Administrator of Secret Group with Over 100,000 Spy Camera Files The Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) has apprehended a security guard in Prachuap Khiri Khan for running a secret online group distributing voyeuristic content, including footage of women in public restrooms and under their skirts in public spaces. The operation, described as a serious threat to public safety, uncovered over 100,000 illicit files hosted on a Telegram group managed by the suspect. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344367-security-guard-arrested-as-administrator-of-secret-group-with-over-100000-spy-camera-files/

Thailand to Repatriate Over 900 Endangered Lemurs and Tortoises to Madagascar The Thai government, through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, has announced plans to repatriate 963 rare and endangered animals to Madagascar. The official ceremony for the handover will take place on November 27, with the actual transport set to be carried out in stages via Qatar Airways on November 28, November 30, and December 2, 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344366-thailand-to-repatriate-over-900-endangered-lemurs-and-tortoises-to-madagascar/

Thai-Chinese Collaboration: MOU Signed for Environmentally Friendly Waste-to-Energy Plant A groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between Thailand’s Vision Inspector and Engineering Co., Ltd. and China’s Aurorean Recovery Co., Ltd., marking a major step in the development of environmentally friendly community waste-to-energy power plants. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344364-thai-chinese-collaboration-mou-signed-for-environmentally-friendly-waste-to-energy-plant/

Sing Buri: Pickup Truck Crash Claims the Lives of Father and Daughter A crash occurred in Sing Buri province, where a father and his young daughter lost their lives following a collision between a motorcycle and a pickup truck. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344363-sing-buri-pickup-truck-crash-claims-the-lives-of-father-and-daughter/

A 25-year-old man in Pattaya had an unfortunate turn of events early morning on November 23. After being assaulted by two assailants, he was found in possession of crystal methamphetamine and promptly arrested by police. At 02:45 the Sawang Boriboon Rescue Centre received a report of a man injured in an assault in Soi Ko Phai, Pattaya, Bang Lamung District. Rescue volunteers rushed to the scene, where they found Thanadol Numcharoen, 25, with a head wound, a lacerated eyebrow, swollen eyes, and bruises across his body. While providing first aid, rescue workers noticed Thanadol acting suspiciously. He was seen making phone calls, urging someone to quickly pick up “the goods” because he had been attacked. This prompted the rescue team to notify Pattaya police, who arrived and discovered seven small plastic zip-lock bags containing crystal methamphetamine in his possession. During questioning, Thanadol admitted he was delivering the drugs to a regular customer named “Aood Ko Phai.” He revealed that he had made multiple transactions with this client in the past. On this occasion, however, while riding his motorcycle to the delivery point, he was ambushed by two unknown assailants and sustained injuries. When asked about the price of the drugs, Thanadol responded incoherently, stating he “needed a clearer mind” to remember the details. He even shared messages from his Line app, showing his drug-dealing conversations with customers, as evidence. Police and rescue workers escorted Thanadol to a nearby hospital for treatment. Afterward, he was detained, along with the confiscated drugs, and handed over to investigators for further legal action. Witnesses and rescue workers at the scene were quick to comment on Thanadol’s misfortune. They described his predicament as “double bad luck”, first being assaulted and then being arrested with illegal drugs. Picture from responders. -- 2024-11-24

The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), led by the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), has dismantled a criminal network involved in the illegal sale of “pawned vehicles” and other unlawfully obtained automobiles. The operation, conducted across multiple provinces, resulted in the arrest of six suspects and the seizure of 83 items, including vehicles and other related equipment, valued at over 5 million baht. The operation was overseen by senior CIB officers, including Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Phuridet, and carried out by a team led by Pol. Col. Ekkasit Pansita. The investigation revealed that the suspects were involved in reselling stolen, embezzled, or pawned vehicles without the consent of the rightful owners. These vehicles were advertised at significantly lower prices on social media, making them attractive to potential buyers. Authorities believe the cars may have also been used in other criminal activities. The suspects arrested include: 1. Mr. Saichon, 42, the operator of a Facebook page advertising illegal vehicle sales. 2. Mr. Suradech, 36, another operator of a similar page. 3. Ms. Kanta, 41, who handled vehicle pledging. 4. Mr. Winai, 49, responsible for delivering vehicles to buyers. 5. Mr. Bunyarit, 34, who liaised with foreign buyers, particularly Chinese clients. 6. Ms. Punyiwadee, 32, who facilitated vehicle rentals through the illegal network. During the raids, which took place in Bangkok, Pathum Thani, Phetchabun, and Chiang Rai, police seized a range of evidence, including: • 3 cars and 1 motorcycle. • 28 license plates. • Vehicle registration documents and dismantled car parts bearing identification numbers. • GPS tracking devices. In total, 83 items were confiscated. Police suspect that many more vehicles from the network remain in circulation and are continuing their investigation to locate them. The investigation began when police discovered the Facebook pages operated by Mr. Saichon and Mr. Suradech, advertising unlawfully obtained vehicles for sale. Further inquiries revealed the involvement of other individuals within the network, including those who pledged vehicles, transported them, and facilitated sales. Arrest warrants were issued for all six suspects, and the Special Operations Unit was called in to assist with the arrests. The suspects face charges of receiving stolen property for commercial purposes. Additionally, police are expanding their investigation to trace other illegally sold vehicles and to identify potential links to organised crime. This operation highlights law enforcement’s commitment to cracking down on illegal vehicle trading and ensuring public safety. Picture courtesy of CIB -- 2024-11-24

The Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) has apprehended a security guard in Prachuap Khiri Khan for running a secret online group distributing voyeuristic content, including footage of women in public restrooms and under their skirts in public spaces. The operation, described as a serious threat to public safety, uncovered over 100,000 illicit files hosted on a Telegram group managed by the suspect. The suspect had used the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to lure paying members into the secret Telegram group, offering access to explicit videos and images. Deputy Commissioner of CCIB, Pol. Maj. Gen. Jirawat Payungtham, ordered an investigation, which was led by Pol. Maj. Gen. Chusak Kananit and a team of cybercrime officers. On November 22, investigators obtained a search warrant from the Hua Hin Provincial Court. During a raid on the suspect’s residence, police seized three mobile phones containing the X and Telegram applications used to administer the group. Authorities also discovered an unregistered firearm at the scene. During questioning, the suspect admitted to operating the group for over a year, claiming that the income generated was used to support his family. He also stated that the images and videos were purchased from other individuals. However, police remain skeptical and are expanding the investigation to identify the original sources of the voyeuristic material. The suspect faces multiple charges, including: • Possession of an unregistered firearm and ammunition. • Uploading and distributing pornographic content via computer systems accessible to the public. • Possessing and distributing child pornography for personal or commercial gain. The suspect has been handed over to investigators for further legal proceedings. Authorities are committed to identifying and prosecuting all parties involved in the creation and distribution of the illicit content, ensuring justice for the victims and safety for the public. Picture courtesy of CCIB -- 2024-11-24

A groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between Thailand’s Vision Inspector and Engineering Co., Ltd. and China’s Aurorean Recovery Co., Ltd., marking a major step in the development of environmentally friendly community waste-to-energy power plants. The signing ceremony, held at Aurorean Recovery’s headquarters, was attended by key figures from both organisations. Representing Vision Inspector and Engineering were Chairman Visarat Potprasart, Civil Engineering Manager Wisarut Rithilert, Public Sector Liaison Manager Chatchai Sapseesuwan, Technical Specialist Manager Manoon Permpintong, Electrical Engineering Manager Natchawarakan Pornrattanun, and Facility Manager Manoch Wangnak. The Chinese side was led by Mr. Thomas Jing, Chairman of Aurorean Energy. Under the agreement, the two companies will collaborate on the Waste-to-Energy (Thai-China) project, leveraging advanced gasification technology to generate electricity from municipal waste. Operating at high temperatures of 1,000-1,200 degrees Celsius, the gasification system promises a clean energy solution free of dioxins, pollutants, waste by-products, and odours. The waste incinerator, featuring a 360-degree rotational axis, ensures optimal combustion quality. Residues from the process can be repurposed into high-strength construction materials or landfill materials, while excess energy from the steam turbine system can be managed efficiently, maintaining sub-zero temperatures where needed. This innovative approach addresses waste management challenges while supporting environmental sustainability, combining waste elimination with clean energy production. The project’s initial implementation will take place in Kanchanaburi province as part of Thailand’s broader strategy to establish permanent waste management solutions and generate renewable energy. With an investment of THB 1.35 billion, the pilot plant will feature a 6-megawatt capacity and handle at least 500 tons of waste per day. The project aligns with the Energy Regulatory Commission’s 2022 directive on purchasing electricity from community waste-to-energy plants. Construction is expected to be completed within three years, setting a benchmark for similar projects across Thailand’s municipalities, provincial administration organisations, and subdistrict administrative organisations. The partnership highlights the shared commitment of Thai and Chinese enterprises to leveraging advanced technology for sustainable development, with a vision to support special economic zones, tourism, and border trade. Concept picture courtesy of ThaiRath. -- 2024-11-24

A crash occurred in Sing Buri province, where a father and his young daughter lost their lives following a collision between a motorcycle and a pickup truck. On November 22, 2024, officers from the Bang Rachan Police Station were alerted to a crash on Highway 3454 near Wat Muang Intersection, Bang Rachan District, Sing Buri. The crash involved a motorcycle and a gray Isuzu D-Max pickup truck, both bearing Sing Buri license plates. Upon arrival at the scene, authorities found three injured individuals. Among them was a woman who was a passenger in the pickup truck. Rescue volunteers promptly transported her to Sing Buri Hospital for treatment. Additionally, two other individuals, both in critical condition, were discovered at the site. Rescue teams performed CPR in an effort to save their lives, but tragically, both succumbed to their injuries. Preliminary investigations revealed that the deceased were a father and his daughter who had been riding the motorcycle. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. Picture from responders. -- 2024-11-24

Inspection of Popular Pattaya Tourist Attraction for Land Misuse Thandol Suwannarit, head of the working committee tasked with investigating improper land acquisitions and ownership violations, led a team to inspect a well-known tourist farm in Pattaya. The farm, spanning 150 rai, is suspected of encroaching on land designated by the Land Reform for Agricultural Purposes, Sor Por Kor (S.P.K.) and using the land for purposes not aligned with its intended use. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1344339-inspection-of-popular-pattaya-tourist-attraction-for-land-misuse/

Thai monk attacked outside Channel 8 TV station in Bangkok (video) by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Channel 8 via KhaoSod A shocking incident unfolded when a prominent monk known as Phra Teera was assaulted outside a television station. The attack occurred yesterday, November 22, after he appeared on a show at Channel 8, leaving him injured. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1344340-thai-monk-attacked-outside-channel-8-tv-station-in-bangkok-video/

Chaos at Don Mueang Airport as Singaporean Suspect Arrested for Bomb Threat A bomb threat caused panic at Don Mueang Airport after a Singaporean man called to falsely claim there was a bomb aboard an AirAsia flight. Police acted swiftly, detaining the suspect and adding him to Thailand’s blacklist. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1344341-chaos-at-don-mueang-airport-as-singaporean-suspect-arrested-for-bomb-threat/

to continue: Thailand Live Sunday 24 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1344355-thailand-live-sunday-24-november-2024/

The Thai government, through the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, has announced plans to repatriate 963 rare and endangered animals to Madagascar. The official ceremony for the handover will take place on November 27, with the actual transport set to be carried out in stages via Qatar Airways on November 28, November 30, and December 2, 2024. The animals, including lemurs and tortoises, were seized earlier this year in a high-profile case led by Thailand’s Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division. On May 1, authorities intercepted a smuggling operation in Chumphon Province, rescuing a total of 1,117 animals and arresting six suspects. Deputy Government Spokesman Anukool Pruksanusak revealed that the repatriation decision was made in collaboration with the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. Of the 963 animals being returned, the list includes: • 16 ring-tailed lemurs • 32 brown lemurs • 760 spider tortoises • 155 radiated tortoises These species, all native to Madagascar, are listed under Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which identifies species at the highest risk of extinction. The Madagascan government has shown great concern over this case, assigning its Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development to oversee the process. The minister recently inspected the animals at Bang Phra Waterbird Breeding Center in Chonburi Province and engaged in discussions with Thai authorities to facilitate the smooth return of the animals to their native habitat. “This initiative highlights Thailand’s commitment to wildlife conservation and its cooperation with international partners in combating illegal wildlife trade. By returning these animals to their natural environment, we aim to contribute to the preservation of global biodiversity,” stated Anukool. The project is expected to strengthen ties between Thailand and Madagascar while serving as a reminder of the global responsibility to protect endangered species and their habitats. Picture of Ministry spokesperson, with some of the animals. -- 2024-11-24