https://aseannow.com/rss/42-world-news1.xml/World news reports from around the worldenhttps://aseannow.com/worldnews/report-says-uk-protesters-face-longer-jail-terms-r1030/A growing number of climate and pro-Palestinian activists in England and Wales are being jailed for acts of protest and civil disobedience, according to new research that argues Britain has created a “new breed” of political prisoner. Get today's headlines by email The report, produced by researchers at Queen Mary University of London and campaign group Defend Our Juries, says custodial sentences for direct action protests were once uncommon but are now becoming longer and more frequent. Researchers examined 286 cases involving climate activists and Palestine solidarity protesters who received prison sentences, amounting to a combined total of 136 years in jail. The findings are due to be published on Tuesday. Rising use of prison sentencesThe report links the increase in imprisonments to tougher anti-protest legislation, expanded police powers and the growing use of civil injunctions by companies and public authorities. It also highlights concerns about judges limiting legal defences available to protesters and imposing what it describes as unusually severe punishments. Of the 256 cases where sentencing data was available, the average period spent in detention was 28 weeks. One-third of protesters received sentences of at least six months, while one in five was jailed for more than a year. David Whyte, professor of climate justice at QMUL and co-author of the report, said the sentences reflected a political response to protest movements. He said the use of long prison terms and extended periods on remand showed authorities were treating political protesters differently from other defendants involved in civil disobedience cases. Concerns over pre-trial detentionThe report describes pre-trial detention as “the first line of attack” against protesters, arguing that lengthy remand periods discourage future demonstrations. Researchers found that in 60% of the cases studied, protesters ultimately received sentences shorter than the time they had already spent in custody awaiting trial. Among the cases highlighted are the “Filton 24”, a group charged over a protest linked to Palestine Action at a factory near Bristol operated by Israeli arms manufacturer Elbit Systems. Some defendants spent up to 18 months in custody before trial, despite the standard pre-trial detention limit being six months. Most were later granted bail after the first six defendants were cleared of aggravated burglary charges. Two of those six were also acquitted of criminal damage offences. Eighteen other defendants are still awaiting trial on separate charges connected to the protest. Civil injunctions and contempt casesThe report found that contempt of court offences accounted for 40% of imprisonment cases examined. These included breaches of courtroom orders as well as violations of civil injunctions obtained by companies or public authorities to prevent protests. Whyte said the growing use of injunctions was concerning because actions that begin as civil matters can ultimately result in criminal penalties and prison sentences. Researchers pointed to the case of 69 people jailed following a high court injunction secured by Warwickshire borough council during a Just Stop Oil campaign at the Kingsbury oil terminal in 2022. Some of those imprisoned had been holding placards, according to the report. A spokesperson for the judiciary defended the independence of the courts, saying judges make decisions based on evidence, legal arguments and sentencing guidelines established under the law. The spokesperson added that judges and magistrates sentence offenders according to legislation set by parliament and guidance issued by the independent Sentencing Council, while taking account of aggravating and mitigating factors in each case. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 23:32:35 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/spacex-starship-v3-makes-debut-in-test-flight-r1029/SpaceX launched the largest and most powerful version of its Starship rocket on Friday, carrying out the 12th test flight of the spacecraft that the company hopes will eventually take humans to Mars and the moon. Get today's headlines by email The upgraded rocket, known as Starship V3, lifted off from the company’s Starbase facility in southern Texas near the Mexican border. The launch came two days after SpaceX chief executive Elon Musk announced plans to take the company public. The mission carried 20 mock Starlink satellites, which were due to be released later in the flight. The launch followed a scrubbed attempt on Thursday evening caused by last-minute problems at the launch pad. New Design and More PowerThe latest Starship model stands 407 feet (124 metres) tall, making it slightly larger than earlier versions while delivering greater engine thrust. The redesigned booster includes fewer but larger grid fins to help guide it back toward Earth after separation, along with a bigger fuel transfer system supplying its 33 engines. The stainless steel spacecraft also features upgraded navigation systems, increased computing capability and additional cameras. Engineers have added docking cones intended for future rendezvous operations and lunar missions. SpaceX has faced several setbacks during previous test flights. Back-to-back launches last year ended in midair explosions that scattered debris over the Atlantic Ocean, while other missions also failed before completing their objectives. Friday’s launch was intended to demonstrate improvements to the upgraded design. Although Starship is designed to be fully reusable, SpaceX did not attempt to recover any parts during this mission. The first-stage booster was expected to fall into the Gulf of Mexico, while the spacecraft and its satellite payloads were planned to end their journey in the Indian Ocean. Moon Race IntensifiesNASA is relying on Starship as part of its Artemis programme, which aims to return astronauts to the moon for the first time since the Apollo era. NASA has awarded billions of dollars in contracts to both SpaceX and Blue Origin, the company founded by Jeff Bezos, to develop lunar landing systems. The companies are competing to provide the spacecraft that will carry astronauts from lunar orbit to the moon’s surface. While Starship has already completed several brief spaceflights lasting around an hour, Blue Origin’s Blue Moon lander has yet to launch. A prototype mission is expected later this year. NASA plans to follow April’s crewed lunar flyby mission with an orbital docking test next year under Artemis III. During that mission, astronauts aboard the Orion capsule are expected to practise docking with Starship, Blue Moon or both systems. A crewed lunar landing under Artemis IV could take place as early as 2028 using whichever lander is ready first. NASA aims to establish a long-term base near the moon’s south pole, supported by astronauts and robotic systems. Private Missions PlannedSpaceX has also begun taking reservations for private journeys aboard Starship. Businessman Dennis Tito, recognised as the world’s first space tourist, and his wife signed up several years ago for a planned flight around the moon, although no timetable has been confirmed. This week, cryptocurrency investor Chun Wang announced plans to join Starship’s first interplanetary mission to Mars. Wang previously funded a privately chartered SpaceX Dragon flight that became the first human mission to orbit above both the north and south poles. Neither the cost nor a launch date for the proposed Mars mission has been disclosed. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 23:18:00 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/secret-service-responds-to-gunfire-reports-near-white-house-r1028/The U.S. Secret Service moved reporters into the White House briefing room on Saturday evening after sounds believed to be gunfire were heard near the White House complex, according to reports from NewsNation and local journalists at the scene. Get today's headlines by email Chris Flanagan, an anchor for DCNewsNow who was on White House grounds at the time, said on social media platform X that he heard “about 30 shots” shortly after 6 p.m. local time before members of the press were quickly ushered indoors. The incident prompted a response from federal law enforcement agencies as authorities worked to verify what had happened near the intersection of 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, close to the White House perimeter. In a statement posted on X, the Secret Service Office of Communications said officials were “aware of reports of shots fired” in the area and were seeking confirmation from personnel on the ground. “We are working to corroborate the information,” the agency said, adding that further details would be released when available. FBI Director Kash Patel also confirmed on X that FBI personnel were at the scene alongside other law enforcement officers. Trump at White HousePresident Donald Trump was at the White House during the incident. Earlier in the day, he had canceled a planned trip to his golf club in Bedminster, New Jersey, amid ongoing reports of negotiations involving Iran. At around 4:30 p.m., Trump posted on Truth Social that he was “in the Oval Office.” White House Communications Director Steven Cheung later said on X that the president had been working at the White House since early Saturday morning. Investigation OngoingAuthorities had not immediately confirmed whether shots had actually been fired or whether there were any injuries, suspects, or arrests connected to the reports. Law enforcement agencies continued to investigate the situation Saturday evening as security remained heightened around the White House grounds. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 23:06:31 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/russia-war-losses-and-economy-pile-pressure-on-putin-r1027/Russian President Vladimir Putin is facing mounting military and economic pressure as the war in Ukraine drags on, according to Estonia’s top intelligence official, who said the Kremlin may soon lose its ability to negotiate from a position of strength. Get today's headlines by email Kaupo Rosin, head of Estonia’s Foreign Intelligence Service, told CNN that Russia’s battlefield setbacks, growing casualties and economic strain are increasing pressure on Moscow. Speaking from the agency’s headquarters in Tallinn, Rosin said the next few months could prove decisive. “In four or five months, Putin may no longer be able to negotiate from a position of strength,” Rosin said, arguing that “time is not in Russia’s favor.” Battlefield gains slowEstonia, a former Soviet republic and NATO member bordering Russia, closely monitors developments inside its neighbor. Rosin said attitudes within the Kremlin have shifted as Russian forces struggle to make meaningful advances in Ukraine. “I do not hear any more talk about total victory,” Rosin said. “People in the Kremlin recognize that the situation on the Ukrainian battlefield is not going too well.” Analysts from the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies have estimated that Russian troops advanced by an average of about 70 meters a day over a two-year period ending in January, while suffering roughly 1,000 killed or wounded daily. Recent progress has slowed further. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last week that Russia was losing between 15,000 and 20,000 troops each month. Ukrainian officials reported more than 35,000 Russian soldiers were killed or seriously wounded in April, broadly in line with the previous two months. Neither side regularly publishes official casualty figures, and the claims cannot be independently verified. Drone warfare reshapes conflictRosin said the war has increasingly become dominated by drones, limiting the possibility of major breakthroughs by either side. “Both sides are unable to conduct a massive, mechanized breakthrough,” he said. Ukraine and Russia have both expanded their drone capabilities during the conflict. Ukraine says improved interceptor drones are reducing the effectiveness of Russian attacks on cities. Ukraine’s defense minister Mykhailo Fedorov said this week that the proportion of Iranian-designed Shahed drones destroyed by interceptors had doubled in the past four months. Economic strain deepensRosin said Russia’s only realistic option for significantly accelerating its offensive in eastern Ukraine would be another large-scale mobilization of troops. However, he warned such a move could create internal instability. Russia’s partial mobilization in 2022 triggered protests and prompted many men to leave the country to avoid conscription. Since then, authorities have relied heavily on financial incentives to attract recruits. At the same time, Russia’s economy is coming under increasing pressure from war spending, labor shortages, sanctions and Ukrainian attacks on energy infrastructure. Last week, Moscow lowered its economic growth forecast for 2026 from 1.3% to 0.4%. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak blamed labor shortages, high government spending and Western sanctions. Rosin said Ukrainian drone strikes on refineries, export hubs and pipelines had caused “billions and billions of dollars” in damage to Russia’s energy sector. He added that attacks on Moscow have brought the war closer to ordinary Russians. Internal concerns in MoscowDespite the pressures, Rosin believes Putin is unlikely to abandon his objectives in Ukraine. He said the Kremlin would continue trying to weaken Ukraine, including through attacks during the coming winter and political efforts aimed at installing a pro-Russian government in Kyiv. Rosin also described growing concern within the Kremlin over domestic stability, with tighter security measures around Putin and reports of fears over possible internal unrest. He said Russian soldiers returning from the war have contributed to rising violence and crime, with some joining organized criminal groups. A study last year by the Center for Strategic and International Studies estimated that returning soldiers had killed or injured more than 1,000 people inside Russia. Although Rosin said he sees little immediate sign of mass protests due to the tight control of Russia’s security services, he warned that authoritarian systems can sometimes weaken rapidly beneath the surface. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 22:58:15 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/uk-floats-wider-eu-goods-market-deal-r1026/The UK has explored the idea of joining a broader single market for goods with the European Union as part of efforts to deepen post-Brexit economic ties, according to reports. Get today's headlines by email Industry representatives briefed on the discussions said the proposal has not progressed after meeting scepticism from the EU. Attention has instead shifted to ongoing negotiations covering food, agriculture and energy trade. The discussions nevertheless point to growing ambition within the UK government for closer economic integration with Europe ahead of a UK-EU summit expected in July. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves have spent recent weeks publicly advocating a stronger economic relationship with the EU as part of a wider reset in post-Brexit relations. Broader trade ambitionsUntil now, public details of the government’s plans have largely focused on talks aimed at easing trade barriers in areas such as food, farming products, electricity and emissions trading. However, it has emerged that UK officials suggested a more far-reaching agenda for the next stage of negotiations. One option discussed involved frictionless trade within a UK-EU single market covering all goods. The proposal was first reported by the Guardian. A spokesperson for the European Commission declined to comment directly on the reported UK proposal but said there was room to strengthen industrial and defence cooperation. The spokesperson pointed to Britain’s interest in discussions linked to financial support for Ukraine. The UK government did not confirm the exact nature of the talks but acknowledged that a range of proposals had been discussed with the EU in recent months and that negotiations were continuing. EU resistanceBusiness groups in Britain were reportedly informed both about the proposal and about resistance from Brussels. According to those briefed, EU officials indicated that such a comprehensive arrangement would be difficult to negotiate while the UK maintains existing red lines, including opposition to restoring freedom of movement. Some ministers believe recent shifts in the United States’ approach towards Europe could encourage greater openness among EU governments to closer economic cooperation with Britain. The issue comes as the Labour government seeks to rebuild relations with European partners without reversing Brexit or rejoining the EU single market in full. Legal framework plannedIn the recent King’s Speech, the government announced plans for a European Partnership Bill. The proposed legislation would create a mechanism for aligning UK and EU rules in sectors covered by future agreements. Ministers have suggested the framework could initially apply to areas such as food trade but could later be extended to other industries if new deals are reached. The upcoming summit in July is expected to provide further indication of how far both sides are willing to go in reshaping the post-Brexit relationship. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 22:42:50 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/france-eases-dover-checks-after-long-delays-r1025/French authorities temporarily suspended additional European Union border checks at Dover on Saturday after thousands of travellers faced lengthy delays at the port during the busy May bank holiday weekend. Get today's headlines by email Queues built up early in the day as holidaymakers heading for cross-Channel ferries encountered slow processing in soaring temperatures. The Port of Dover said it had raised the “challenging situation” with border authorities, leading to the temporary suspension of the extra checks to ease congestion at the terminal and on nearby roads. Travellers reported waiting up to two hours to reach the port, followed by an additional two-and-a-half hours for processing once inside the terminal. By lunchtime, the port said traffic conditions had improved, with queues moving slowly and processing times reduced to under an hour. Shortly after 14:00 local time, officials said traffic had become “free-flowing”. EU Border System TestedThe busy holiday weekend is seen as an early test of the European Union’s upcoming Entry/Exit System (EES), a new digital border control programme for non-EU travellers. Passengers travelling through Dover must complete French border checks before boarding ferries to France. The EES system will eventually introduce biometric checks, including fingerprint scans and facial recognition, across 29 countries in the Schengen Area. Although the biometric machines have not yet been activated at Dover, French border officials were still collecting traveller information manually for entry into the system’s database. The additional processing contributed to the long delays seen on Saturday. French authorities later reinstated the extra checks shortly before 17:00, after traffic conditions improved. Standard border procedures remained in place throughout the disruption. Port Frustration Over DelaysPort of Dover chief executive Doug Bannister said more than 8,000 cars were expected to pass through the port on Saturday. He said 84 kiosks had already been installed to support the future digital border system and to manage high passenger volumes safely. However, Bannister said processing had been much slower than expected despite prior assurances from British and French authorities. “I think we’re all quite frustrated,” he told the BBC. Passengers who missed scheduled ferry departures because of the delays would be transferred to the next available sailing, the port added. Travel Disruption Across UKElsewhere, transport disruption affected rail and road networks across Britain during the bank holiday getaway. LeShuttle, which operates services through the Channel Tunnel between Folkestone and Calais, reported delays of around 90 minutes because of longer border processing times. Major engineering works disrupted several rail routes, including lines between London St Pancras International and London Blackfriars, York and Darlington, and Bristol Parkway and Newport. Some services were cancelled or significantly altered. Industrial action also affected West Midlands Railway services on Saturday. Traffic monitoring agencies reported widespread congestion on roads across the UK. National Highways issued 22 severe congestion alerts on motorways and major A-roads by mid-afternoon, while heavy traffic was also reported in parts of Scotland and Wales. Heatwave Conditions ExpectedThe travel disruption coincided with unusually hot weather across the UK during the bank holiday weekend. Saturday became the warmest day of the year so far, with temperatures reaching 30.5C in Frittenden, Kent. The previous day saw highs of 28.4C recorded at Heathrow, Cranwell in Lincolnshire and Cambridge. Forecasters said temperatures were expected to rise further over the weekend, with some areas likely to meet official heatwave criteria. Amber heat-health alerts remain in place in parts of England as temperatures are forecast to stay above 30C. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 22:35:38 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/california-declares-emergency-over-toxic-leak-r1024/California has declared a state of emergency as emergency crews worked through the weekend to contain a dangerous chemical leak at an aerospace manufacturing facility in Orange County. Get today's headlines by email Officials warned that a tank holding about 7,000 gallons of methyl methacrylate — a highly flammable chemical used in plastic production — was at risk of catastrophic failure. Thousands of residents were ordered to evacuate surrounding areas as a precaution. The emergency is centred on a facility operated by GKN Aerospace in the city of Garden Grove, around 35 miles southeast of Los Angeles and about five miles from Disneyland. The theme park remains open and is outside the evacuation zone. Tank Temperature Continues to RiseOfficials said the damaged tank’s internal temperature was significantly higher than first believed and continued rising on Saturday. Orange County Fire Authority division chief Craig Covey said crews were preparing for two possible outcomes: a rupture causing a chemical spill, or a thermal runaway reaction leading to an explosion. Emergency teams have been spraying water on the tank in an effort to cool it and reduce pressure buildup. However, authorities said an inoperable valve had complicated efforts to stabilise the situation. Covey said officials initially believed the tank had cooled to around 16C (61F) after drone measurements on Friday evening. But when crews later checked the internal gauge directly, they discovered the temperature had climbed to about 32C (90F) and was increasing by roughly one degree Fahrenheit per hour. “Letting this thing just fail and blow up is unacceptable to us,” Covey told reporters. Evacuations and Road ClosuresAuthorities have closed local schools and shut several major road exits to restrict access to the area. Officials are also constructing containment barriers in case chemicals spill from the tank. Covey said the aim was to stop hazardous material from reaching storm drains or flowing into the ocean. Orange County health officer Dr Regina Chinsio-Kwong warned residents to report any noticeable “fruity and heavy smell”, which could indicate the presence of chemical vapours. She said exposure to the vapour could lead to breathing difficulties, dizziness and eye irritation, but added that people outside the one-mile evacuation zone were not believed to face immediate danger. Covey warned on Friday that the situation was no longer theoretical. “This thing is going to fail, and we don’t know when,” he said during a news conference. Residents Describe UncertaintyResidents forced to leave their homes described confusion and anxiety as emergency sirens sounded across neighbourhoods. Mark Olsen, who evacuated to the Garden Grove Sports and Recreation Center, told local media he woke to emergency alarms before being instructed to leave the area. He said uncertainty over when residents could safely return home was difficult. “It’s just frustrating,” Olsen said. Company ApologisesGKN Aerospace said it was cooperating fully with emergency responders and hazardous materials teams. A company spokesperson apologised to residents and said efforts remained focused on protecting the local community, employees and emergency personnel as crews continued attempts to stabilise the tank. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 22:25:30 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/trump-says-iran-deal-largely-negotiated-hormuz-to-reopen-r1023/US President Donald Trump said an agreement with Iran had been “largely negotiated”, adding that details of the proposed deal — including the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz — would be announced soon. Get today's headlines by email In a social media post on Saturday, Trump said he had held a “very good call” with the leaders of Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Qatar regarding what he described as a “Memorandum of Understanding pertaining to PEACE”. “An agreement has been largely negotiated, subject to finalization between the United States of America, the Islamic Republic of Iran, and the various other Countries, as listed,” Trump wrote. He said the remaining details were still being discussed and would be made public shortly. Hormuz reopening discussedTrump did not provide specifics about the draft agreement, but said it would include reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway is one of the world’s most important shipping routes for oil and gas exports. The US president has repeatedly insisted that any deal with Iran must ensure Tehran cannot obtain a nuclear weapon. Trump also said he had spoken by phone with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday, describing the conversation as having gone “very well”. Earlier in the day, Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei said Tehran and Washington had moved closer in their positions over the past week, although he cautioned that major disagreements remained. Speaking on Iranian state television, Baqaei accused the US of making “contradictory statements” and warned that progress did not guarantee agreement on key issues. Framework under discussionBaqaei said Iran was seeking a deal “in the form of a framework” made up of 14 points. He added that both sides were finalising a memorandum of understanding that could pave the way for further talks within 30 to 60 days and eventually lead to a final agreement. The renewed diplomatic momentum follows growing tensions in recent days. On Friday, anonymous US officials told domestic media outlets that the administration was preparing for another round of military strikes, although no final decision had been taken. Trump also posted on Truth Social that he would not attend his son Donald Trump Jr’s wedding this weekend because he needed to remain in Washington during what he called an “important period of time”. Only last week, the president said the existing truce with Iran was on “massive life support” after rejecting Tehran’s demands as “totally unacceptable”. Blockade and maritime tensionsThe temporary ceasefire between the United States and Iran began in early April. The US has maintained a blockade of Iranian ports since 13 April. On Saturday, US Central Command said it had redirected 100 vessels, disabled four ships and allowed 26 humanitarian aid vessels to pass since the operation began. Centcom commander Admiral Brad Cooper said US forces had been “highly effective” in preventing trade through Iranian ports and increasing economic pressure on Tehran. At the same time, Iran has claimed military control over waters surrounding the Strait of Hormuz and stated that ships passing through the area require authorisation from the Persian Gulf Strait Authority. The US and its Gulf allies have rejected Iran’s claims over the strait, while Washington has instructed ships not to comply with Iranian regulations. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 22:15:10 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/former-f1-driver-mika-salo-stabbed-in-bangkok-r1963/Former Formula 1 driver Mika Salo said he is recovering after suffering a serious leg injury in what doctors suspect was a stabbing in Bangkok, earlier this week. Salo, 59, told Finnish media from Bangkok that he received a deep wound to his leg while crossing a pedestrian crossing near his hotel. Get today's headlines by email He said a motorcycle passed very close to him and he felt a slight impact, but initially thought nothing of it. The former racing driver continued walking before a passer-by alerted him that blood was pouring from his leg. When he looked down, he saw that his shoe was covered in blood and realised the injury was severe. Salo was taken by taxi to a nearby hospital, where doctors treated a deep open wound to his leg. He said surgeons had to stitch both muscle tissue and skin, with a total of 28 stitches required. “It looked really bad. A huge open wound. The muscle had torn,” Salo said. He added that doctors believed the injury may have been caused by a knife and was not accidental, because the cut was straight, deep and clean. According to Salo, hospital staff later told him that several patients arrived with similar slash wounds on the same evening and overnight. He said the incidents appeared to have happened in the same area near his hotel. Salo has been holidaying in Thailand with his wife and said he regularly visits the country, where many of his friends live. He said he had never experienced anything similar before. The first few days after the injury were considered critical because of the risk of infection in Bangkok’s hot and humid conditions. Salo said he has returned to hospital daily for wound cleaning and dressing changes. Despite the seriousness of the injury, he said he has not suffered significant pain and has not needed painkillers. He is currently taking antibiotics and can still walk short distances, although doctors advised him not to walk too far. Heavy rain and temperatures of around 35-36C during Thailand’s rainy season have limited his movements, with Salo spending much of his time inside his air-conditioned hotel room to keep the wound dry. Two days after the incident he was able to walk to a nearby sports bar with friends to watch Finland’s national ice hockey team play. He said he could comfortably manage one or two kilometres on foot. Salo praised the treatment he received in Thailand, describing the hospitals and doctors as excellent and efficient. He also said the incident had not made him fearful of motorcycles in Bangkok. “If this was intentional, they only tried to injure me,” he said, adding that the outcome could have been far worse if the attack had targeted his upper body. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Source 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 20:41:41 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/nigerian-romance-scam-gang-busted-in-nonthaburi-r1962/Thai police have arrested six Nigerian nationals accused of operating a romance scam network from a condominium in Nonthaburi, seizing mobile phones, laptops and evidence allegedly linked to online fraud targeting elderly Thai women. Get today's headlines by email The raids took place at 4pm on 22 May at three rooms inside a riverside condominium near Phra Nang Klao Bridge in Nonthaburi province. Officers from the Metropolitan Police Bureau, the Narcotics Suppression Centre and local police forces carried out Operation “Dark Room” under search warrants issued by the Nonthaburi Provincial Court. Police said the suspects were charged with criminal association and overstaying their visas. Investigators are also coordinating with victims and local police stations to pursue additional charges related to romance scams. Authorities seized 18 mobile phones, three laptop computers and three bank books. Investigators said the devices contained chat records, scam scripts and AI-generated face images allegedly used to deceive victims through online relationships. The operation followed an investigation into a transnational cocaine trafficking network. On 18 April, police arrested a Nigerian suspect known only as Patrick along with three others and seized 27 grammes of cocaine and assets worth 2.5 million baht. Pictures courtesy of ThaiRath Police later traced suspicious financial transactions to a group of Nigerian nationals living in Nonthaburi on student visas. Officers said the group showed unusually high financial activity despite allegedly not attending classes or working. According to investigators, the suspects used fake online profiles portraying successful foreign professionals such as pilots, American soldiers, lawyers, engineers and doctors. They contacted victims through Facebook Messenger, WeChat, TikTok, Line and Zalo before building romantic relationships online. Police said the scammers then claimed to have sent valuable parcels from overseas, later telling victims the packages were held by customs and required transfer payments to release them. Investigators said most victims were older Thai women. During the raids, officers reported hearing movement inside the rooms and suspected evidence was being destroyed. Police forced entry after the occupants allegedly refused to open the doors. One suspect reportedly tried to escape via a balcony while another hid inside a bathroom. Investigators also discovered what police described as “psychological scripts” containing flirtatious and sexually suggestive dialogue designed to manipulate victims emotionally. Authorities said the group allegedly used AI technology to create moving facial images and fake video calls to make the profiles appear genuine. Pol Maj Gen Theeradej Thamsuthee, deputy commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, said the operation formed part of a wider government crackdown on foreign criminal networks operating illegally in Thailand. ThaiRath reported that he warned the public to be cautious of attractive strangers online who quickly move conversations into romantic or intimate territory before requesting money. The six suspects remain in custody and were transferred to Ratthanathibet Police Station for further legal proceedings. AQMfz7rb6uLtefeClOMxGS_UPUZ-vpz-HKAe6AE3j-7HxoC5E_IAso7yE2ZXsxx6M7napRe4u42Xgnnwm9rrmZSu9ddcfJwYat2xBwz_3g.mp4 Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 20:32:01 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/police-raid-koh-phangan-nominee-firms-r1961/Thai police have arrested 22 foreign nationals and seized more than 40 rai of land worth over 200 million baht during the second phase of a major crackdown on alleged nominee companies on Koh Phangan. Get today's headlines by email The operation began at 6am on 23 May 2026 after Pol Gen Samran Nuanma, deputy national police chief and director of the Centre for Suppression of Transnational Criminals and Illegal Immigration, ordered officers to target foreign-owned businesses suspected of illegally using Thai nominees to hold land and operate restricted businesses. More than 300 officers took part in the raids, led by Pol Lt Gen Nopasin Poolsawat. Investigators pursued 39 cases and obtained warrants to search 36 locations from Koh Samui Provincial Court. Police also secured 45 arrest warrants for foreign suspects accused of operating businesses prohibited to foreigners under Thailand’s Foreign Business Act and illegally possessing land under the Land Code. One key target was FB Properties Co Ltd, also known as Yoga House, where police alleged an Israeli national was the true owner while Thai shareholders were used as nominees. Officers said the company controlled eight plots of land covering 7.5 rai worth more than 60 million baht and had also been operating an unlicensed hotel business. Police said these second phase raids uncovered 32 companies clearly operating as nominee firms. Authorities seized 45 plots of land totalling more than 40 rai and arrested 22 foreign nationals. Investigators estimated the total amount involved at more than 200 million baht. The 32 companies were identified as holding land while foreign shareholders outnumbered Thai shareholders. Those firms controlled 38 plots of land covering more than 38 rai, most of them undeveloped. Officers searched 21 of the companies to collect further evidence for prosecution. The crackdown follows an order from Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to intensify action against nominee arrangements involving foreigners using Thai citizens to hold shares and land on their behalf. Pol Gen Kittirat Phanphet, the national police chief, instructed officers to accelerate investigations to prevent transnational crime, illegal business operations and unfair competition affecting Thai citizens. Authorities said the problem had been building on Koh Phangan since 2024. So far, 29 cases involving suspicious businesses have been prosecuted, with courts already ruling on two cases. A total of 62 suspects have been identified, including 32 Thai nationals and 30 foreigners. Earlier this month, phase one of the operation focused on legal firms, accounting firms and nominee companies. Police handled 37 cases, carried out 27 searches and issued three arrest warrants. Investigators found alleged nominee shareholders included state welfare card holders and company employees, while more than 100 foreign-linked firms were registered under the same address. ThaiRath reported that oficials said the next step will involve meetings with the Department of Business Development, provincial commerce officials and the Land Department to investigate financial trails and determine whether any state officials were involved. Pictures courtesy of ThaiRath Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 20:23:38 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-couple-held-over-cambodia-scam-compounds-r1960/Thai anti-trafficking police have arrested a husband and wife accused of helping lure Thai nationals to scam compounds in Cambodia, where victims were allegedly tortured and forced to work for criminal gangs. Get today's headlines by email The suspects, identified as 28-year-old Angkarn, also known as Joe, and 29-year-old Saharuthai, also known as Kae, were arrested on 23 May 2026 in Chiang Dao district, Chiang Mai. Officers from Thailand’s Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division acted on Criminal Court warrants issued on 18 May 2026. The pair face charges including participation in a transnational criminal organisation, conspiracy to commit human trafficking, and jointly forcing labour or services with three or more people. Police said the arrests followed complaints from Thai victims who escaped from what they described as a “hell building” in Cambodia. Victims told investigators they had been recruited in April 2025 with promises of admin jobs in Cambodia. Once across the border, they were allegedly detained and forced to work as scammers targeting victims through fake online investment and shopping schemes resembling Shopify platforms. According to witness statements, workers who refused to sign contracts or failed to meet financial targets were subjected to severe punishment. Victims alleged they were shocked with electric batons, beaten and forced to witness other Thai nationals being tortured. Some reportedly died while being held by Chinese-backed criminal groups operating the compounds. One victim said they became seriously ill and asked to return to Thailand, only to be told they had to pay a ransom of 500,000 baht. The amount was later negotiated down to 120,000 baht per person, with two victims paying a combined 240,000 baht to secure their release and return home. Investigators from Division 2 of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division later traced the network and obtained arrest warrants for 10 Thai and Chinese suspects, several of whom remain overseas. Police alleged the arrested couple acted as recruiters responsible for persuading Thai nationals to cross the border and monitoring money transfers through mule bank accounts. Authorities said the couple initially hid in Wang Nam Yen district, Sa Kaeo, before fleeing to a mountain area in Chiang Dao district. Officers reportedly seized chat records allegedly used to recruit additional victims. During questioning, both suspects denied direct involvement in managing the operation. They admitted travelling to Cambodia with victims and acknowledged knowing about ransom demands and physical abuse, but denied ordering or organising the crimes. Khaosod reported that police transferred the suspects to investigators for legal proceedings. Thailand’s Central Investigation Bureau warned the public not to trust offers of overseas jobs promising unusually high pay, saying such schemes could lead to forced labour, human trafficking, financial crime, or death. Pictures courtesy of Khaosod Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 20:16:19 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/indian-man-dies-after-collapse-in-pattaya-r1959/An Indian man died after collapsing outside a bank in Pattaya on the morning of 23 May 2026, with police now awaiting the results of a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death. Get today's headlines by email Police at Pattaya City Police Station were informed at 06.50 that a foreign national had died after being admitted to Pattaya City Hospital. Officers reported the case to senior officials before coordinating with relevant authorities to investigate. At the hospital, officers identified the deceased as Mr.Kaku Ram, aged 34, an Indian national. He was wearing a white sleeveless shirt and black trousers and investigators found no wounds or signs of physical assault on the body. Hospital staff told police they had earlier received reports that the man had suffered convulsions and collapsed unconscious outside Bangkok Bank opposite the VC Hotel in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri province. Rescue workers and members of the public assisted in transporting him to Pattaya City Hospital, where he later died. Police also questioned a friend of the deceased, who said the man had previously experienced intermittent chest pain. Initial checks by officers at the scene found no signs of a struggle or any suspicious circumstances linked to the incident. The investigation is being led by Pol. Lt. Chiwaphat Jaikan, the case officer, who worked alongside an on-duty doctor to carry out a preliminary post-mortem examination, photograph the body, and document the scene according to procedure. Authorities have since sent the body for a detailed forensic examination to establish the precise cause of death. Police have not yet released further findings and are awaiting the results of the autopsy. The case was handled under the direction of Pol. Col. Anek Sarathongyu, chief of Pattaya City Police Station. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ฉลาม นิวส์ 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 20:08:32 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/cambodia-moves-offenders-to-border-training-camps-r1958/Cambodia is transferring 790 juvenile and adult offenders jailed over gang-related crimes to detention and training centres along the Thai-Cambodian border to support frontline forces and strengthen border defences. Get today's headlines by email According to Cambodia’s General Department of Prisons, 651 offenders are being moved to Correctional Centre No. 4 in Pursat province, opposite Thailand’s Trat province, while another 139 are being transferred to Oddar Meanchey provincial prison, opposite Buriram, Surin and Sisaket provinces. Cambodian authorities said the programme is intended to “rehabilitate and modify behaviour” through vocational training in agriculture, vegetable farming, animal husbandry and construction work. Tasks include pouring concrete and building bomb shelters to support troops stationed along the border. Agricultural experts and field engineers are participating in the scheme to supervise and train the offenders. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet had previously instructed the Ministry of Justice, the army and police to consider using juvenile offenders to assist forces at the frontlines. On April 26, Hun Manet directed officials to deploy juvenile offenders who had caused unrest to carry out suitable duties along the border, including constructing bomb shelters and supporting army operations. The development has drawn attention in Thailand, where military authorities said they are closely monitoring the situation. Col. Richa Suksuwanon, deputy spokesperson for the Thai army, said there has so far been no confirmed information that Cambodian offenders are operating along the Thai-Cambodian border. He said reports currently only indicate that the offenders are being transferred to other prisons within Cambodia. However, he added that Thai military units stationed along the border are preparing for the possibility that such operations could expand in future within Cambodian territory. Thai authorities also sought to reassure the public that border defence forces already have contingency measures in place to respond to any developments linked to the Cambodian programme. The ThaiNewsRoom reported that the transfer scheme comes amid heightened attention on border security and military preparedness in the region. Cambodian authorities have not stated how long the offenders will remain at the training centres or whether further transfers are planned. Pictures courtesy of TNR Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thainewsroom 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 20:02:23 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/indian-gun-suspect-arrested-on-koh-phangan-r1957/Thai police have arrested an Indian national accused of displaying firearms and allegedly dealing drugs on Koh Phangan, Surat Thani, after videos circulated on social media showing him posing with weapons and firing guns in a durian orchard. Get today's headlines by email Police said the suspect, identified as 33-year-old Indian national Mr Shabeelkunnon Valappil, was arrested on 23 May 2026 at a house in Koh Phangan subdistrict, Koh Phangan district, Surat Thani province. Officers acted on orders from Pol Gen Samran Nuanma, deputy national police chief and director of the police centre for transnational crime suppression operations. Pictures courtesy of Daily News The operation was led by Pol Lt Gen Noppasin Poolsawat, Pol Lt Gen Sitthichai Lokanpai, commander of Provincial Police Region 8, and Pol Col Prawit Engchuan, superintendent of the special operations division under the Region 8 investigation bureau. Officers from the special operations unit surrounded the property after receiving complaints from residents about the suspect’s behaviour. According to police, local residents reported that the man regularly gathered with groups linked to drug activity in a durian orchard and frequently fired weapons during celebrations, causing fear among nearby villagers. Social media clips allegedly showed the suspect displaying both handguns and rifles. Investigators waited in ambush until the suspect returned to the property on an off-road motorcycle. Police said he attempted to flee into nearby woodland when he spotted officers, but was quickly apprehended. A search of his trouser pocket reportedly uncovered drugs packaged for sale along with several measuring tubes used for distribution. Officers also found that the suspect had overstayed his visa and was living in Thailand unlawfully. Police charged him with possession of Category 1 narcotics, including crystal methamphetamine, ecstasy and MDMA, with intent to sell, as well as possession of the Category 2 drug ketamine for sale. He was also charged with drug use and overstaying his permission to remain in the kingdom. The Daily News reported that the suspect was transferred to investigators at Koh Phangan Police Station for legal proceedings. Authorities have not released further details on whether additional suspects may face investigation following the arrest. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 19:55:04 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-woman-refuses-to-pay-after-vomiting-in-bolt-car-r1956/A Thai woman refused to pay compensation after vomiting inside a Bolt ride-hailing vehicle in Pattaya during the early hours of 23 May 2026, before reportedly causing a disturbance at a police station and threatening legal action over photos or videos of the incident. Get today's headlines by email At 2.20am, 34-year-old Bolt driver Weerawat Poolprae filed a complaint with Pol. Lt. Col. Thanongsak Inphadung, an investigator at Pattaya City Police Station. He said a heavily intoxicated Thai woman, identified as 42-year-old Parinya Khunkasem, vomited on the rear seat behind the driver while travelling in his vehicle, causing damage and a strong smell inside the car. According to the driver, he had picked up a foreign man and the Thai woman from the Rompho Market area and was taking them to Soi Pattaya 14 on Walking Street. The fare for the trip was 116 baht. The driver requested 3,000 baht in compensation to cover cleaning costs and loss of income while the vehicle was out of service. However, he alleged that the woman refused to pay and responded with abusive language, reportedly saying: “Don’t try to make money like this,” before challenging him to file a lawsuit if he wanted payment. Both parties were later taken to Pattaya City Police Station for discussions. Police said the atmosphere at the station became chaotic as the woman allegedly remained intoxicated, spoke loudly and claimed to know senior police officers, influential figures in Pattaya and local journalists. The woman’s foreign boyfriend reportedly attempted to mediate the dispute and offered to pay the compensation on her behalf. However, the woman allegedly stopped him and threatened to have his visa revoked if he paid the driver. While journalists were recording the incident, the woman also allegedly warned members of the media that she would sue for more than 10 million baht if any photos or video clips were published. She reportedly stated: “Anyone filming should take responsibility themselves. Prepare to go to court.” Police recorded the incident in the station diary as evidence. Officers said both parties would be invited for further questioning once the woman had sobered up in order to resolve the compensation dispute. If no agreement can be reached, authorities said the matter would proceed in accordance with legal procedures. AQOI6PknY3rJImLkCz5tclF6vLP1XiSrSEQCTcttf2nqZ57uVMLU1kHDRPe5qZASpS0gG18sI0ywIUaARl7rfFSEGYYwO33ha-ZMEDKdjA.mp4 Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now แจ็ค โพธิ์แดง 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 19:44:33 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thailand-groups-demand-fuel-price-reform-r1955/Consumer groups in Thailand have given the government seven days to overhaul the country’s energy pricing structure, saying the changes could cut fuel prices by 7 baht per litre. The proposal was submitted to Energy Minister Akanat Promphan on May 22 by the Joint Working Group to Review Public Network Proposals on Energy Price Restructuring. Get today's headlines by email The groups called for five major reforms, including scrapping the import-parity fuel pricing formula, capping refining margins at no more than 1.48 baht per litre, restructuring biofuel use, regulating oil marketing margins and ending public contributions to the Oil Fuel Fund. They said the measures would make fuel prices reflect real costs and lower living expenses. Panthep Puapongpan, chairperson of the Thailand Watch Foundation, said the latest proposals followed eight earlier demands submitted to the energy minister on April 16. He said several reforms could be implemented immediately and noted that the ministry had already accepted in principle the need to review the long-standing pricing formula. Public groups argue that the current formula treats Thailand as though it has no domestic refining capacity by relying on import-parity pricing. One proposal would use Singapore market prices from the previous two days while removing additional charges such as freight, insurance and fuel-quality adjustment costs. The groups also want refining margins capped using the seven-year average from 2020 to 2026. They estimate this would reduce margins by around 6.45 to 6.57 baht per litre, leaving a margin of about 1.48 to 1.60 baht per litre. Energy academic M.L. Kornkasiwat Kasemsri said the pricing structure still included assumed costs that had remained in place for more than 30 years. He said freight, insurance and oil reserve costs should be reviewed and removed so fuel prices better reflect actual costs and provide greater transparency. Rosana Tositrakul, chair of the consumer council’s subcommittee on public services, energy and environment, said capping refining margins would reduce what she described as excess refinery profits and return benefits to consumers through lower prices. She also proposed quarterly reviews of refining margins. Public groups further called for an immediate end to biofuel compensation, arguing that biofuel is now more expensive than base fuel and no longer benefits farmers as intended. They also proposed separating LPG accounts from oil accounts and returning funds used for cross-subsidies within 90 days. The Nation reported that Energy Ministry spokesman Pongpol Yodmuangcharoen said the ministry would compile all urgent proposals and submit them to the energy minister as soon as possible. He added that some measures, including a review of B100 prices, could proceed immediately, while investigations into oil-hoarding networks were continuing across more than 166 cases. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 19:37:58 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/staff-bus-overturns-in-nakon-nayok-19-hurt-r1954/A staff shuttle bus overturned at a traffic light junction in Pak Phli district, Nakhon Nayok, early on 23 May 2026, leaving 19 people injured, including two seriously hurt. The crash occurred at about 6am on Highway 3649 near the new road intersection in Tambon Pak Phli after the vehicle, operated by Amornkul Transport, reportedly lost control on a rain-slick road. Get today's headlines by email Rescue workers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation and local residents rushed to the scene after the bus overturned onto its side beside the road. Seventeen passengers were trapped inside the vehicle and had to be evacuated through the rear door and front window, after rescuers forced access. The injured were taken to nearby hospitals, with 17 passengers sent to Pak Phli Hospital. Two people suffering serious injuries were transferred to Nakhon Nayok Hospital after becoming trapped under the overturned bus with injuries to their arms and legs. According to a garland seller who witnessed the crash and was among the first to assist, light rain had made the road extremely slippery. He said the bus had been travelling normally before reaching the traffic lights, where the driver appeared to brake lightly. The witness said the slippery surface caused the rear of the bus to slide before the vehicle overturned. He told reporters: “The bus was travelling normally. Then the driver touched the brakes slightly, but the road was very slippery, so the rear of the bus slid away.” The man said he immediately abandoned his stall and ran to help passengers escape through the rear door. He added that nearly all passengers on board suffered injuries and were unable to leave the vehicle without assistance. Rescue teams later used hydraulic cutting equipment to free the two seriously injured passengers trapped partially under the wreckage. Emergency crews were able to remove them and transport them to hospital in time for treatment. Daily News reported that police from Pak Phli Police Station inspected the scene and are preparing to question the driver in detail to establish the exact cause of the crash. Officers said the investigation would continue in line with legal procedures. Pictures courtesy of Daily News Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 19:31:53 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/vietnamese-women-arrested-for-soliciting-in-lumpini-r1953/Ten Vietnamese women were arrested in Bangkok’s Lumpini area on 23 May 2026 during a crackdown on street prostitution, before having their visas revoked and being blacklisted from returning to Thailand. Get today's headlines by email The operation was carried out under the direction of Pol Maj Gen Prasart Khemaprasit, commander of Immigration Division 1, alongside senior immigration officers Pol Col Keeratisak Kongkiatsiris and Pol Col Phonsit Suttiart. Officers from the Immigration Bureau worked jointly with Lumpini police and officials from the Department of Women’s Affairs and Family Development under the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. Authorities said the women were detained while approaching, following and soliciting people along public roads and in public places in the Lumpini district for the purpose of prostitution. Officials stated that the activity caused disturbance and nuisance to both residents and tourists in the area. The arrests formed part of a wider campaign targeting foreign nationals suspected of violating the Immigration Act BE 2522 and other related laws. Investigators from the Phra Nakhon Tai operations unit, led by Pol Lt Col Thaweesap Chaiphum and Pol Lt Col Suriyo Chaiyot, were tasked with gathering intelligence and preventing crimes linked to immigration offences. Following the arrests, officials from the Department of Women’s Affairs and Family Development imposed administrative fines of 1,000 baht on each of the 10 women under Section 5 of the Prevention and Suppression of Prostitution Act. However, authorities moved beyond financial penalties. After the completion of the ministry’s legal procedures, Lumpini police submitted reports of the women’s behaviour to Immigration Division 1 for further action. Pol Maj Gen Prasart subsequently approved the immediate revocation of the women’s temporary permission to remain in Thailand under Section 12(8) of the Immigration Act BE 2522, citing behaviour considered a threat to society and public order. All 10 women were then transferred to Division 3 of the Immigration Bureau’s Investigation Division for detention and deportation proceedings. Thai authorities also confirmed the group would be added to a blacklist preventing them from re-entering the country in future. Amarin reported that the operation reflects ongoing efforts by Thai authorities to intensify enforcement against immigration and prostitution-related offences in central Bangkok, particularly in areas popular with tourists and nightlife visitors. Picture courtesy of Amarin Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 24 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 19:22:09 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-masseuse-wins-oil-massage-gold-in-bangkok-r1952/Sat, 23 May 2026 19:10:15 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/coal-mine-blast-kills-82-in-northern-china-r1022/At least 82 people have been killed after a gas explosion tore through a coal mine in northern China, according to state media reports. Get today's headlines by email China’s state news agency Xinhua said the blast occurred at the Liushenyu Coal Mine, operated by the Tongzhou Group in Shanxi Province. The explosion happened at 19:29 local time on Friday (11:29 GMT), Xinhua reported. A total of 247 workers were reportedly on duty at the mine when the incident took place. Authorities said rescue operations were continuing at the site as emergency crews searched for survivors and worked to assess the full scale of the disaster. No immediate details were released about the cause of the explosion or the condition of the remaining workers. Shanxi Province is one of China’s main coal-producing regions and has seen a number of mining accidents over the years despite repeated government pledges to improve industrial safety standards. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 May 2026Sat, 23 May 2026 05:55:25 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/german-tourist-seeks-help-in-pattaya-r1951/A German tourist has appealed for help after allegedly being left stranded in Pattaya without money or support for more than five weeks. The man was reportedly found living near Jomtien Beach, close to the Jomtien Palm Beach area, after claiming that his wallet and credit cards had been stolen. Get today's headlines by email According to local outlet Chalarm News, reporters visited the area after learning about the tourist’s situation. They found the man in a weakened condition, without money to buy food or drinking water and sleeping outdoors near the beach. The tourist told reporters that he had lost access to his finances after his wallet and bank cards were stolen. With no remaining funds, he had been unable to secure accommodation or arrange travel back to Germany. The news team provided immediate assistance by purchasing food and water for him. The report described the man as exhausted and struggling to survive after spending several weeks living in the area. Picture courtesy of ฉลาม นิวส์ Chalarm News also called on local authorities to intervene and provide humanitarian support. Agencies mentioned included the Tourist Police, Chonburi Immigration Bureau, Pattaya City officials, and social welfare organisations. The report urged authorities to visit the location and coordinate with the German embassy to help arrange safe repatriation to Germany. The case highlights ongoing concerns surrounding vulnerable foreign visitors who become stranded in Thailand after losing access to money, documents, or assistance networks. In some cases, local charities, volunteers, or community groups provide emergency support until embassy officials or authorities can intervene. Chalarm News concluded its report by stressing that assistance should be offered equally to both Thai citizens and foreign nationals facing hardship. The outlet stated that anyone experiencing severe difficulties deserved humanitarian help regardless of nationality. Officials have not yet publicly confirmed whether contact has been made with the German embassy or whether arrangements are underway to assist the tourist. Further action from local authorities is expected following the public appeal. AQMkmipGVtKS2nmJEB1tcm2BvzrWUsOHubBy_LfK9iATLwlQ24Mh_WL_9xcxTRlG_A4nvdTzaFuQScJJQZCF1BRcUm39dO8gtI14DYH9ng.mp4 Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ฉลาม นิวส์ 23 May 2026Fri, 22 May 2026 23:48:35 +0000