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<rss version="2.0"><channel><title>Thailand news</title><link>https://aseannow.com/rss/44-thailand-news.xml/</link><description>National and regional news from all around Thailand</description><language>en</language><item><title>Thai Couple Held Over Cambodia Scam Compounds</title><link>https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-couple-held-over-cambodia-scam-compounds-r1960/</link><description>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&#x2019;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 &#x201C;hell building&#x201D; 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&#x2019;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 2026</description><enclosure url="https://assets.aseannow.com/forum/uploads/monthly_2026_05/IMG_2793.png.816ebeb244c7b88f3425c69d65541ddb.png" length="4586564" type="image/png"/><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 20:16:19 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Thai Couple Held Over Cambodia Scam Compounds</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395223-thai-couple-held-over-cambodia-scam-compounds/?do=findComment&comment=20520255]]></link><description>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&#x2019;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 &#x201C;hell building&#x201D; 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&#x2019;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 2026 

 
View full article</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 20:16:19 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Indian Gun Suspect Arrested on Koh Phangan</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395220-indian-gun-suspect-arrested-on-koh-phangan/?do=findComment&comment=20520254]]></link><description>Bring back Thaksin, he knew how to take out the trash.</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 20:10:33 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Andrew Drummond and Adam Howell</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395037-andrew-drummond-and-adam-howell/?do=findComment&comment=20520253]]></link><description>This thread is a perfect example of a proverb that goes back 2,500 years to ancient China: &#x201C;Those who know do not speak. Those who speak do not know.&#x201D; &#x2015; Lao Tzu, Tao Te Ching  The individuals who know the full story of this very confused string of events won't be posting on AN.  Those who do post are speculating based on half-truths, rumors and incomplete information.  This type of "scandal" involving well-known farang players in Thailand isn't a good topic for AN because it draws the wrong sort of attention to the board since it involves allegations of trafficking of an under*ged pr*stitute.</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 20:09:49 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Indian Man Dies After Collapse in Pattaya</title><link>https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/indian-man-dies-after-collapse-in-pattaya-r1959/</link><description>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 &#xE09;&#xE25;&#xE32;&#xE21; &#xE19;&#xE34;&#xE27;&#xE2A;&#xE4C; 24 May 2026</description><enclosure url="https://assets.aseannow.com/forum/uploads/monthly_2026_05/IMG_2781.jpeg.f45c323efaf03848c48a3decf96a922b.jpeg" length="289609" type="image/jpeg"/><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 20:08:32 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Indian Man Dies After Collapse in Pattaya</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395222-indian-man-dies-after-collapse-in-pattaya/?do=findComment&comment=20520252]]></link><description>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 &#xE09;&#xE25;&#xE32;&#xE21; &#xE19;&#xE34;&#xE27;&#xE2A;&#xE4C; 24 May 2026 

 
View full article</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 20:08:32 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Cambodia Moves Offenders to Border Training Camps</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395221-cambodia-moves-offenders-to-border-training-camps/?do=findComment&comment=20520251]]></link><description>Operation 'Human Shield'. Probably had Ukrainian advisors fly in and teach them how to set it up for maximum media impact.</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 20:08:23 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Thai Woman Refuses to Pay After Vomiting in Bolt Car</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395219-thai-woman-refuses-to-pay-after-vomiting-in-bolt-car/?do=findComment&comment=20520250]]></link><description>Rompho strikes again!  42 is a baby for Rompho, must have been visiting her mother's bar.  I bet the monkey man had a hand in this!</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 20:06:12 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Cambodia Moves Offenders to Border Training Camps</title><link>https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/cambodia-moves-offenders-to-border-training-camps-r1958/</link><description>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&#x2019;s General Department of Prisons, 651 offenders are being moved to Correctional Centre No. 4 in Pursat province, opposite Thailand&#x2019;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 &#x201C;rehabilitate and modify behaviour&#x201D; 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 2026</description><enclosure url="https://assets.aseannow.com/forum/uploads/monthly_2026_05/IMG_2787.png.d3bfa7dde835b28f606e756b33b3df90.png" length="4736089" type="image/png"/><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 20:02:23 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Cambodia Moves Offenders to Border Training Camps</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395221-cambodia-moves-offenders-to-border-training-camps/?do=findComment&comment=20520249]]></link><description>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&#x2019;s General Department of Prisons, 651 offenders are being moved to Correctional Centre No. 4 in Pursat province, opposite Thailand&#x2019;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 &#x201C;rehabilitate and modify behaviour&#x201D; 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 2026 

 
View full article</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 20:02:23 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Thai Woman Refuses to Pay After Vomiting in Bolt Car</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395219-thai-woman-refuses-to-pay-after-vomiting-in-bolt-car/?do=findComment&comment=20520248]]></link><description>Ha ha, don't they all.  Nothing worse than a loud mouth, large, drunk Thai chick.</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 20:00:08 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Swiss Man Wrecks Hua Hin Rental, Owner Warns Others</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395058-swiss-man-wrecks-hua-hin-rental-owner-warns-others/?do=findComment&comment=20520247]]></link><description>I've had good luck with the rentals in the condos' juristic  offices, aside from being overcharged for cleaning when I return it cleaner than I got it.  The most recent time I was charged a 500 baht cleaning fee whilst the maid (that I already paid for through the building) was cleaning my suite. The desk lady was embarrassed.  Next time I'll 'go Swiss' and get my name on the Asean Now Walk of Fame.</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 19:59:23 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Israel: YOU can call out the brutality...</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395213-israel-you-can-call-out-the-brutality/?do=findComment&comment=20520246]]></link><description>Other religions apply. Jews in many countries.</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 19:57:00 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Indian Gun Suspect Arrested on Koh Phangan</title><link>https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/indian-gun-suspect-arrested-on-koh-phangan-r1957/</link><description>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&#x2019;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 2026</description><enclosure url="https://assets.aseannow.com/forum/uploads/monthly_2026_05/IMG_2769.png.131aeb61cbedd8c2af7f5eaae04b50e8.png" length="3309440" type="image/png"/><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 19:55:04 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Indian Gun Suspect Arrested on Koh Phangan</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395220-indian-gun-suspect-arrested-on-koh-phangan/?do=findComment&comment=20520245]]></link><description>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&#x2019;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 2026 

 
View full article</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 19:55:04 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Terminate rental contract</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395196-terminate-rental-contract/?do=findComment&comment=20520244]]></link><description>No, he is saying the landlord kicks him out 4 years earlier.</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 19:53:02 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Israel: YOU can call out the brutality...</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395213-israel-you-can-call-out-the-brutality/?do=findComment&comment=20520243]]></link><description>The one Jewish state</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 19:50:10 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Israel: YOU can call out the brutality...</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395213-israel-you-can-call-out-the-brutality/?do=findComment&comment=20520242]]></link><description>Israel is about Israeli's</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 19:47:37 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Trump 'Anti-Weaponization Fund' Faces Second Lawsuit</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395159-trump-anti-weaponization-fund-faces-second-lawsuit/?do=findComment&comment=20520241]]></link><description>President Donald Trump is facing mounting scrutiny after sources reportedly contradicted his claim that he had no involvement in a controversial $1.8 billion IRS settlement fund now at the centre of a political firestorm in Washington. The fund, created as part of a Justice Department settlement tied to Trump&#x2019;s lawsuit over leaked tax returns, is already drawing fierce criticism from opponents who say it risks becoming an unsupervised financial pipeline for the president&#x2019;s political allies.  &#x2018;He Was Very Involved&#x2019; Trump publicly denied directing the settlement, insisting: &#x201C;I wasn&#x2019;t involved in the settlement. I could have been involved, but I didn&#x2019;t choose to be.&#x201D; But sources cited by Zeteo claim the president and senior White House advisers were regularly briefed throughout negotiations and approved the final arrangement before it was signed off. &#x201C;He was very involved,&#x201D; one source reportedly said, comparing Trump&#x2019;s role to the involvement of major corporate chiefs overseeing strategic decisions inside their companies. The White House has strongly rejected the allegations, dismissing the claims and attacking the credibility of unnamed sources behind the report.  A Deal Raising Serious Questions The settlement stems from Trump&#x2019;s lawsuit against the IRS after his tax returns were leaked during his first term in office. Those disclosures fuelled years of political controversy over how little federal tax the former president allegedly paid. Under the agreement, Trump drops the lawsuit while a massive compensation fund is established under federal oversight arrangements critics say remain dangerously vague. Legal concerns had already been building before the settlement was finalised. A federal judge reportedly questioned whether the case represented a genuine legal dispute at all, given Trump&#x2019;s direct authority over the government agencies involved. Before the court could rule, the Justice Department announced the settlement and closed the case.  Tax Dispute Adds Fuel to Backlash The controversy intensified further after reports emerged that a late amendment signed by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche could halt audits or investigations tied to Trump&#x2019;s tax affairs. That detail has become a major flashpoint because the Trump Organization reportedly faced a long-running dispute with the IRS involving claims it may have improperly written off losses twice. Critics now argue the settlement risks looking less like legal resolution and more like political self-protection &#x2014; a perception likely to deepen pressure on an administration already battling accusations of blurred lines between power and personal interest.  'He was very involved': Sources call out Trump&#x2019;s big slush fund lie</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 19:47:15 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Thai Woman Refuses to Pay After Vomiting in Bolt Car</title><link>https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-woman-refuses-to-pay-after-vomiting-in-bolt-car-r1956/</link><description>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: &#x201C;Don&#x2019;t try to make money like this,&#x201D; 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&#x2019;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: &#x201C;Anyone filming should take responsibility themselves. Prepare to go to court.&#x201D;  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 &#xE41;&#xE08;&#xE47;&#xE04; &#xE42;&#xE1E;&#xE18;&#xE34;&#xE4C;&#xE41;&#xE14;&#xE07; 24 May 2026</description><enclosure url="https://assets.aseannow.com/forum/uploads/monthly_2026_05/IMG_2779.png.a6d84313776c938630acdb5c21074887.png" length="2205283" type="image/png"/><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 19:44:33 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Thai Woman Refuses to Pay After Vomiting in Bolt Car</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395219-thai-woman-refuses-to-pay-after-vomiting-in-bolt-car/?do=findComment&comment=20520240]]></link><description>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: &#x201C;Don&#x2019;t try to make money like this,&#x201D; 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&#x2019;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: &#x201C;Anyone filming should take responsibility themselves. Prepare to go to court.&#x201D;  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 &#xE41;&#xE08;&#xE47;&#xE04; &#xE42;&#xE1E;&#xE18;&#xE34;&#xE4C;&#xE41;&#xE14;&#xE07; 24 May 2026 

 
View full article</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 19:44:33 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Foreign Tourist Poses Nude on Phuket Beach</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395171-foreign-tourist-poses-nude-on-phuket-beach/?do=findComment&comment=20520239]]></link><description>Dried Fish!</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 19:43:39 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Israel: YOU can call out the brutality...</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395213-israel-you-can-call-out-the-brutality/?do=findComment&comment=20520238]]></link><description>Yeah and Thailand is not about Thais.</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 19:42:01 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>German Tourist Seeks Help in Pattaya</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395177-german-tourist-seeks-help-in-pattaya/?do=findComment&comment=20520237]]></link><description>And had my plan executed in 3 or less...</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 19:39:05 +0000</pubDate></item><item><title>Looking for "real" Hong Style Chow Mein in Pattaya</title><link><![CDATA[https://aseannow.com/topic/1395123-looking-for-real-hong-style-chow-mein-in-pattaya/?do=findComment&comment=20520236]]></link><description>Well I think the long settled Chinese Thai tend towards Thai Chinese style and of course many Thai food dishes have obvious Chinese origins . As far as regional Chinese food from Chinese regions I am quite happy with the current options in Pattaya. Compared to 10 years ago its night and day.</description><pubDate>Sat, 23 May 2026 19:38:13 +0000</pubDate></item></channel></rss>
