https://aseannow.com/rss/44-thailand-news.xml/National and regional news from all around Thailandenhttps://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thailand-prepares-ebola-testing-labs-r1942/Thailand’s Department of Medical Sciences has prepared Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) laboratories to diagnose Ebola virus infections, following heightened global concern over outbreaks in Africa. The move comes after the World Health Organization declared outbreaks of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola virus in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Get today's headlines by email On 22 May 2026, Dr Sarawut Boonsuk, Director-General of the Department of Medical Sciences, said Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat had instructed all agencies under the Ministry of Public Health to strengthen disease surveillance, prevention and control measures. Authorities were also ordered to prepare for emergency public health situations in order to reassure the public. The Department of Medical Sciences was tasked with reviewing laboratory readiness, diagnostic procedures and biosafety systems to support the handling of dangerous pathogens. This included assessing BSL-3 laboratory facilities, biosafety systems, personal protective equipment (PPE) and transport systems for high-risk samples. Officials also strengthened genomic and molecular surveillance capabilities and prepared diagnostic test kits. Laboratory networks nationwide were coordinated to ensure suspected Ebola cases could be confirmed rapidly and accurately. Dr Sarawut said the Department’s Public Health Science Research Institute had continuously prepared for outbreaks of severe infectious diseases. Measures included operational guidelines and confirmed testing methods for suspected cases using Real-time RT PCR, an internationally recognised standard capable of detecting viral genetic material with high sensitivity and specificity. The department stated that test results could be delivered within eight hours after samples arrive at the laboratory. All testing is conducted within BSL-3 laboratories designed for handling highly dangerous infectious agents. According to the department, the facilities include specialised airflow systems to prevent pathogens escaping into the environment. Laboratory staff have undergone biosafety training and are prepared to respond to outbreak situations while maintaining safety for workers and the public. Authorities have also reviewed and rehearsed emergency laboratory response plans for dangerous communicable diseases. This includes procedures covering biosafety, transport of high-risk specimens and coordination with laboratory networks across Thailand. ThaiRath reported that the ministry said the measures are intended to ensure Thailand can respond quickly, safely and effectively to any potential public health emergency linked to Ebola or other dangerous infectious diseases. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 23 May 2026Fri, 22 May 2026 21:46:08 +0000Thailand’s Department of Medical Sciences has prepared Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) laboratories to diagnose Ebola virus infections, following heightened global concern over outbreaks in Africa. The move comes after the World Health Organization declared outbreaks of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola virus in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. Get today's headlines by email On 22 May 2026, Dr Sarawut Boonsuk, Director-General of the Department of Medical Sciences, said Public Health Minister Pattana Promphat had instructed all agencies under the Ministry of Public Health to strengthen disease surveillance, prevention and control measures. Authorities were also ordered to prepare for emergency public health situations in order to reassure the public. The Department of Medical Sciences was tasked with reviewing laboratory readiness, diagnostic procedures and biosafety systems to support the handling of dangerous pathogens. This included assessing BSL-3 laboratory facilities, biosafety systems, personal protective equipment (PPE) and transport systems for high-risk samples. Officials also strengthened genomic and molecular surveillance capabilities and prepared diagnostic test kits. Laboratory networks nationwide were coordinated to ensure suspected Ebola cases could be confirmed rapidly and accurately. Dr Sarawut said the Department’s Public Health Science Research Institute had continuously prepared for outbreaks of severe infectious diseases. Measures included operational guidelines and confirmed testing methods for suspected cases using Real-time RT PCR, an internationally recognised standard capable of detecting viral genetic material with high sensitivity and specificity. The department stated that test results could be delivered within eight hours after samples arrive at the laboratory. All testing is conducted within BSL-3 laboratories designed for handling highly dangerous infectious agents. According to the department, the facilities include specialised airflow systems to prevent pathogens escaping into the environment. Laboratory staff have undergone biosafety training and are prepared to respond to outbreak situations while maintaining safety for workers and the public. Authorities have also reviewed and rehearsed emergency laboratory response plans for dangerous communicable diseases. This includes procedures covering biosafety, transport of high-risk specimens and coordination with laboratory networks across Thailand. ThaiRath reported that the ministry said the measures are intended to ensure Thailand can respond quickly, safely and effectively to any potential public health emergency linked to Ebola or other dangerous infectious diseases. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 21:46:08 +0000BrideFri, 22 May 2026 21:43:28 +0000ChildFri, 22 May 2026 21:36:41 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/ambulance-crash-kills-medic-in-uttaradit-r1941/A woman was killed when a pickup truck crashed into a tree in Uttaradit, while a second fatality occurred when an ambulance responding to the scene overturned on a rain-slicked road. Get today's headlines by email Police and rescue workers were called to the area outside the forestry office in Ban Pang Kluea, Nam Pat district, Uttaradit province, on May 22. Heavy rain had been falling continuously, creating dangerous driving conditions. A Toyota pickup truck driver reportedly lost control and slammed into a large roadside tree with significant force. The vehicle was severely damaged in the crash. A 57-year-old woman, named as Am Wongchaibut, died at the scene. Two other people were injured in the collision and were due to receive emergency assistance. While rushing to help the injured victims, an ambulance from Nam Pat Hospital also crashed. Officials said the vehicle driver lost control and veered off the road because the surface was extremely slippery following the heavy rain. An emergency medical technician identified as “Khun June”, who was travelling in the ambulance, suffered serious injuries in the incident. Despite efforts to save her, she later died from her injuries. The double tragedy prompted an outpouring of grief among hospital staff, rescue workers and local residents. The death of the frontline emergency worker was described as a significant loss for the local medical community. Police officers led by Pol Lt Col Chawanan Sila, deputy investigation inspector at Nam Pat Police Station, attended both crash scenes alongside volunteers from Nam Pat rescue services. Authorities examined the wreckage and gathered evidence as part of the investigation into the incidents. Officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause of either crash, though severe weather and slippery roads are believed to have been major contributing factors. Road safety concerns are frequently heightened during periods of heavy rainfall in Thailand, particularly in rural areas where visibility and road grip can quickly deteriorate. The Daily News reported that emergency response crews also face increased risks when travelling urgently to crash scenes during adverse weather conditions. Investigations into both incidents are continuing and authorities are expected to review the circumstances surrounding the ambulance crash as part of standard procedures. Picture courtesy of Daily News Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 23 May 2026Fri, 22 May 2026 21:36:18 +0000A woman was killed when a pickup truck crashed into a tree in Uttaradit, while a second fatality occurred when an ambulance responding to the scene overturned on a rain-slicked road. Get today's headlines by email Police and rescue workers were called to the area outside the forestry office in Ban Pang Kluea, Nam Pat district, Uttaradit province, on May 22. Heavy rain had been falling continuously, creating dangerous driving conditions. A Toyota pickup truck driver reportedly lost control and slammed into a large roadside tree with significant force. The vehicle was severely damaged in the crash. A 57-year-old woman, named as Am Wongchaibut, died at the scene. Two other people were injured in the collision and were due to receive emergency assistance. While rushing to help the injured victims, an ambulance from Nam Pat Hospital also crashed. Officials said the vehicle driver lost control and veered off the road because the surface was extremely slippery following the heavy rain. An emergency medical technician identified as “Khun June”, who was travelling in the ambulance, suffered serious injuries in the incident. Despite efforts to save her, she later died from her injuries. The double tragedy prompted an outpouring of grief among hospital staff, rescue workers and local residents. The death of the frontline emergency worker was described as a significant loss for the local medical community. Police officers led by Pol Lt Col Chawanan Sila, deputy investigation inspector at Nam Pat Police Station, attended both crash scenes alongside volunteers from Nam Pat rescue services. Authorities examined the wreckage and gathered evidence as part of the investigation into the incidents. Officials have not yet confirmed the exact cause of either crash, though severe weather and slippery roads are believed to have been major contributing factors. Road safety concerns are frequently heightened during periods of heavy rainfall in Thailand, particularly in rural areas where visibility and road grip can quickly deteriorate. The Daily News reported that emergency response crews also face increased risks when travelling urgently to crash scenes during adverse weather conditions. Investigations into both incidents are continuing and authorities are expected to review the circumstances surrounding the ambulance crash as part of standard procedures. Picture courtesy of Daily News Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 21:36:18 +0000Alberta will hold a referendum in October on whether the province should remain part of Canada, in a move that marks the most serious challenge to Canadian unity in decades. Get today's headlines by email Premier Danielle Smith announced on Thursday that voters will decide whether Alberta should stay within Canada or begin the constitutional process that could eventually lead to a binding vote on independence. The referendum is scheduled for 19 October and follows months of mounting pressure from separatist groups in the oil-rich western province. A citizen-led petition supporting separation reportedly collected more than 300,000 signatures earlier this year, while another petition backing Alberta remaining in Canada drew more than 400,000. Polls, however, continue to indicate that most Albertans oppose leaving the country. Referendum question announcedIn a televised address, Smith said voters would be asked: “Should Alberta remain a province of Canada or should the Government of Alberta commence the legal process required under the Canadian Constitution to hold a binding provincial referendum on whether or not Alberta should separate from Canada?” Smith said she personally supports Alberta staying within Canada. “That is how I would vote on separation in a provincial referendum,” she said, adding that her government and caucus also back remaining in the federation. At the same time, the premier criticised a recent court ruling that halted a petition seeking a separation referendum. An Alberta judge dismissed the petition process after Indigenous First Nations groups argued they had not been properly consulted, which they said violated their rights. Smith said the decision unfairly blocked the voices of Albertans who supported the initiative. “As Premier, I will not have a legal mistake by a single judge silence the voices of hundreds of thousands of Albertans,” she said. She argued that delaying the issue would only intensify divisions and prolong debate over Alberta’s future. Long-standing grievances with OttawaSupport for greater autonomy — and in some cases outright independence — has grown in Alberta over concerns that the federal government in Ottawa does not adequately represent the province’s interests. Many Albertans believe federal environmental and climate policies have harmed the province’s oil and gas sector, a major driver of the local economy. There is also a long-standing perception that Alberta contributes more to the national economy through its resource wealth than it receives in return from the federal government. Smith echoed some of those frustrations in her address, accusing Ottawa of moving toward a more centralised political system and interfering in provincial jurisdiction. “I categorically reject Ottawa’s attempts to do so,” she said. While separatist movements have historically remained on the political margins in Alberta, calls for greater provincial powers have become more prominent over the past year. Legal hurdles remainEven if voters support the proposal in October, Alberta would still face a lengthy and uncertain path toward separation. Canada established legal rules for any province seeking independence after two referendums in Quebec, including a narrow 1995 vote in which 50.58% backed remaining in Canada. Earlier this month, Prime Minister Mark Carney said any separation effort would need to comply with the federal Clarity Act, introduced after the Quebec referendums. Under the law, any future independence vote would require a clear referendum question and a “clear majority” in favour of separation, with oversight from Canada’s House of Commons. If those conditions were met, Alberta and the federal government would then enter negotiations over the terms of separation. Carney has recently worked with Smith on energy and infrastructure issues, including plans for a possible new oil pipeline to the Pacific coast. Federal ministers and opposition politicians also stressed support for national unity following Thursday’s announcement. Dominic LeBlanc said the federal government believes Alberta’s interests are best served within a united Canada, while Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre said he would continue campaigning to keep the country united. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 21:33:14 +0000Judge dismisses criminal case against Kilmar Abrego Garcia The judge called it a vindictive prosecution. Updated: 05/22/2026 05:25 PM EDT A federal judge has thrown out the Trump administration’s criminal, immigrant-smuggling case against Kilmar Abrego Garcia, ruling that the prosecution was “vindictive” retaliation against the Salvadoran immigrant for winning a high-profile challenge to his deportation from the U.S. Crenshaw said there was significant proof, including statements from now-acting Attorney General Todd Blanche, indicating that the investigation into a 2022 traffic stop of Abrego in Tennessee was re-opened last year in response to a federal judge in Maryland ruling that Abrego’s deportation was illegal and authorities needed to facilitate his return to the U.S. “Another activist judge has placed politics above public safety,” a DOJ spokesperson said in a statement. “The judge’s order is wrong and dangerous, and we will appeal.” https://www.politico.com/news/2026/05/22/judge-dismisses-criminal-case-against-kilmar-abrego-garcia-00934244Fri, 22 May 2026 21:30:55 +0000I'm just trying to understand what you just said, are you saying that you're totally in opposition to any level of dissent or disagreement with government policy?Fri, 22 May 2026 21:27:32 +0000The founder of a community group in Greater Manchester has called on Reform UK leader Nigel Farage to apologise after an unannounced visit by him and his campaign team to a cafe supporting young adults with additional needs. Get today's headlines by email The dispute arose during campaigning in Makerfield, where Farage and members of the Reform UK team stopped at a cafe operated by Hamlet Wigan CIC for tea and to use the toilets. At the time, the venue was hosting a celebration for trainees who had completed their gold Duke of Edinburgh awards. Around a dozen young people attended the event, alongside Andy Burnham, who has long supported the organisation. Concerns Over VisitGemma Crompton, director of the Hamlet, later wrote to Farage describing the visit as “intimidating and overwhelming” for trainees, staff and families. She said the arrival of a large group, including security staff and media crews, created distress at what had been intended as a private celebration event. Crompton said the organisation welcomed visitors from all political backgrounds but objected to the way the visit was handled. In her letter, she requested a formal apology and assurances that similar incidents involving organisations supporting vulnerable people would not happen again. She also accused members of the visiting group of filming and taking photographs without permission, despite requests for media activity to stop once staff became aware of it. Political RowReform UK MP Lee Anderson said the stop had been spontaneous and non-political, describing it as a quick visit for “a cuppa” and to use the toilet facilities. Anderson questioned why the complaint had been made, saying Crompton had spoken with the group during the visit, posed for photographs and thanked them before they left. The incident also led to criticism of Burnham after reports suggested he reacted sharply when approached by a journalist accompanying Farage’s team. According to reports, Burnham said campaigners should not enter a venue like the Hamlet unannounced. Burnham has previously supported the organisation, including attending the opening of its new buildings in 2023. Crompton stressed, however, that the Duke of Edinburgh celebration “was not intended to be a political event or a platform for campaigning”. Video ResponseFollowing Anderson’s comments, Crompton posted a video online while visiting Buckingham Palace with trainees attending the Duke of Edinburgh celebrations. In the video, she contrasted Burnham’s attendance with the Reform visit, saying the mayor had arrived alone and without media crews. She alleged that a group of at least 15 people connected to Reform UK entered the cafe and immediately began filming and taking photographs. Crompton said no consent had been given for the cafe to be used in a political context. Burnham later backed the organisation’s criticism, saying those involved should “hold their hands up and apologise”. Reform UK denied the visit had been political. In a statement responding to Crompton’s letter, the party said the stop had been made “in good faith and without political motivation”. The party also disputed claims that wider filming or photography had taken place, although it acknowledged that staff members had taken selfies with Farage and Reform candidate Robert Kenyon. Reform said some young adults at the cafe had spoken with Farage and shaken his hand. The statement added that the tone of Crompton’s letter gave the impression it had been politically influenced. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 21:24:28 +0000Five shots, or whatever the contradictory official reports are claiming this time! This should be handled by local border commanders over a coffee, not escalated into a diplomatic crisis.Fri, 22 May 2026 21:23:22 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/russia-seeks-thai-visa-flexibility-r1940/Russia has urged Thailand to apply flexibility to its revised visa rules, particularly for foreigners needing extended medical treatment. Russian Ambassador Evgeny Tomikhin said he hoped Thai authorities would consider special arrangements in such cases after the cabinet approved reducing visa-free stays from 60 days to 30 days for visitors from 93 countries, including Russia. Get today's headlines by email The policy change was approved by the Thai cabinet on Tuesday, according to the government’s public relations department. The revision has prompted concerns among some foreign visitors about how the shorter visa-free period could affect long-term stays in Thailand. Speaking to Thai media at the Russian embassy on Wednesday ahead of Russia’s National Day on 12 June, Mr Tomikhin said Russian nationals had not been significantly affected by the new rules. He explained this was mainly because Thailand and Russia already have a bilateral agreement allowing Russian citizens to stay in Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days. The ambassador said there had been no complaints from the Russian community in Thailand so far. However, he acknowledged that difficulties could arise in special circumstances, particularly for visitors undergoing prolonged medical treatment. “I hope there might be some flexible instruments for certain circumstances like this because life is much more difficult than only rules,” he said. He added that he hoped to discuss the matter further with Thailand’s Foreign Affairs Ministry. Mr Tomikhin also stressed that foreigners should comply with Thai regulations, describing the revised visa policy as a standard rule applied equally to all nationalities. His comments came as Thailand reviews immigration measures aimed at managing tourism and long-stay visitors more closely. Separately, the ambassador said Russia was prepared to increase fertiliser exports to Thailand as countries affected by the ongoing Middle East conflict seek alternative suppliers. He noted that Russia remains one of the world’s leading fertiliser exporters. According to Mr Tomikhin, Thailand imported around 600,000 tonnes of Russian fertiliser last year, valued at US$300 million, or about 9.78 billion baht. He said Russia was open to negotiating further supply agreements through designated companies, with pricing expected to be the main issue in future talks. The Bangkokpost reported that the ambassador also expressed hope for further discussions with Thailand’s Energy Ministry on possible areas of cooperation. Further talks between Russian and Thai officials are expected in the coming months as both countries continue discussions on visa arrangements and trade cooperation. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Bangkokpost 23 May 2026Fri, 22 May 2026 21:21:03 +0000Russia has urged Thailand to apply flexibility to its revised visa rules, particularly for foreigners needing extended medical treatment. Russian Ambassador Evgeny Tomikhin said he hoped Thai authorities would consider special arrangements in such cases after the cabinet approved reducing visa-free stays from 60 days to 30 days for visitors from 93 countries, including Russia. Get today's headlines by email The policy change was approved by the Thai cabinet on Tuesday, according to the government’s public relations department. The revision has prompted concerns among some foreign visitors about how the shorter visa-free period could affect long-term stays in Thailand. Speaking to Thai media at the Russian embassy on Wednesday ahead of Russia’s National Day on 12 June, Mr Tomikhin said Russian nationals had not been significantly affected by the new rules. He explained this was mainly because Thailand and Russia already have a bilateral agreement allowing Russian citizens to stay in Thailand visa-free for up to 30 days. The ambassador said there had been no complaints from the Russian community in Thailand so far. However, he acknowledged that difficulties could arise in special circumstances, particularly for visitors undergoing prolonged medical treatment. “I hope there might be some flexible instruments for certain circumstances like this because life is much more difficult than only rules,” he said. He added that he hoped to discuss the matter further with Thailand’s Foreign Affairs Ministry. Mr Tomikhin also stressed that foreigners should comply with Thai regulations, describing the revised visa policy as a standard rule applied equally to all nationalities. His comments came as Thailand reviews immigration measures aimed at managing tourism and long-stay visitors more closely. Separately, the ambassador said Russia was prepared to increase fertiliser exports to Thailand as countries affected by the ongoing Middle East conflict seek alternative suppliers. He noted that Russia remains one of the world’s leading fertiliser exporters. According to Mr Tomikhin, Thailand imported around 600,000 tonnes of Russian fertiliser last year, valued at US$300 million, or about 9.78 billion baht. He said Russia was open to negotiating further supply agreements through designated companies, with pricing expected to be the main issue in future talks. The Bangkokpost reported that the ambassador also expressed hope for further discussions with Thailand’s Energy Ministry on possible areas of cooperation. Further talks between Russian and Thai officials are expected in the coming months as both countries continue discussions on visa arrangements and trade cooperation. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Bangkokpost 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 21:21:03 +0000The numbers are tiny in the grand scheme of things, and even support for this sort of action is fairly lukewarm among the electorate, similar to the Anti-weaponsization Fund. I suspect he genuinely believes both measures are genuinely popular, when in reality, these are progammes, at taxpayers expense, that benefits, in some cases, ill-deservadly. Some White South Africans are going home;Fri, 22 May 2026 21:20:49 +0000The Trump administration has announced that many legal immigrants seeking permanent residency in the United States will now have to leave the country and apply for green cards from their home nations, marking a major shift in immigration policy. Get today's headlines by email The new guidance, issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services on Friday, limits the long-standing “adjustment of status” process that has allowed immigrants already living legally in the US to apply for permanent residency without leaving the country. Agency officials described the move as a return to the original purpose of immigration law, while critics said it would disrupt the lives of millions of legal immigrants. New rules for green card applicantsUnder the policy, people living temporarily in the US on student, work or other visas will generally be required to return to their home countries to seek permanent residency. Exceptions will apply only in what the administration described as “extraordinary circumstances.” USCIS spokesperson Zach Kahler said the administration was seeking to ensure immigrants “navigate our nation’s immigration system properly.” “From now on, an alien who is in the U.S. temporarily and wants a Green Card must return to their home country to apply,” Kahler said in a statement. He added that the change would reduce the number of people who remain in the US illegally after being denied residency applications. The policy coincides with a halt in immigrant visa processing by the U.S. Department of State in 75 countries, further complicating immigration pathways for applicants abroad. Adjustment of status curtailedFor decades, adjustment of status has been one of the main legal pathways to permanent residency in the US. The process allowed eligible immigrants already in the country to change from temporary visas to green cards without leaving. Students, temporary workers and spouses of US citizens have commonly used the system to secure permanent residency. David Bier, director of immigration studies at the Cato Institute, said the process had been used by more than half of legal immigrants over the past generation. Bier criticised the administration’s decision, arguing that Congress intended eligible immigrants to remain in the US while their applications were processed. “These are all people who qualify to stay here permanently and Congress clearly wanted them to have a way to stay,” Bier wrote on social media. He also described the administration as hostile to legal immigration, warning the changes could cost immigrants their jobs and separate families. Growing immigration backlogThe policy arrives as USCIS faces a large backlog of pending immigration cases. Bier said there are already around one million pending adjustment-of-status applications. The backlog has expanded since the Trump administration ordered a pause on immigration applications around Thanksgiving last year after the fatal shooting of a National Guard member in Washington, DC. That earlier policy remains the subject of legal challenges. Legal experts also expect the latest directive to face court scrutiny. Opponents may argue that such a significant change to immigration procedures should have gone through a formal public rulemaking process before being implemented. While the administration maintains the policy restores the original intent of immigration law, immigration advocates warn it could create uncertainty for long-term residents who have legally built their lives in the United States. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 21:16:31 +0000ManFri, 22 May 2026 21:13:50 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-immigration-detains-chinese-fraud-suspect-r1939/Thai Immigration Police, working in coordination with public security authorities in China’s Gansu province, have detained Chinese national Mr. Zhongwei, who is wanted in connection with a major cross-border investment fraud case. The arrest followed intelligence-led tracking that located the suspect in Thailand. Get today's headlines by email Authorities confirmed the detention was carried out under cooperation between the Immigration Bureau and Chinese law enforcement agencies. Investigators said Mr. ZHongwei was part of a group that allegedly operated the unauthorised “Zhong-Jing commodity trading platform” between November 2020 and April 2024. The platform reportedly claimed to link its price charts with real futures market data to appear legitimate, while using false advertising and so-called “teacher lecturers” to attract investors. The scheme is alleged to have involved more than 22,000 victims, causing losses exceeding 500 million yuan. Authorities also said the suspect and associates gained illicit profits of over 50 million yuan. According to the investigation by public security authorities in Lanzhou, Gansu, Mr. Zhongwei fled from Shanghai Pudong International Airport on 31 May 2024 before a formal arrest warrant was issued by the Lanzhou People’s Procuratorate on 24 July 2024. He and 21 associates were later charged with “illegal business operation” for running the scheme without regulatory approval or financial licences. Officials said the operation highlights strengthened cooperation between Thai and Chinese authorities in tackling transnational financial crime and locating fugitives who attempt to use Thailand as a hideout. Thaitabloid reported that Mr. Zhongwei is now in custody in Thailand, with authorities preparing legal procedures for his repatriation to China to face prosecution under the ongoing investigation. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 23 May 2026Fri, 22 May 2026 21:11:34 +0000Thai Immigration Police, working in coordination with public security authorities in China’s Gansu province, have detained Chinese national Mr. Zhongwei, who is wanted in connection with a major cross-border investment fraud case. The arrest followed intelligence-led tracking that located the suspect in Thailand. Get today's headlines by email Authorities confirmed the detention was carried out under cooperation between the Immigration Bureau and Chinese law enforcement agencies. Investigators said Mr. ZHongwei was part of a group that allegedly operated the unauthorised “Zhong-Jing commodity trading platform” between November 2020 and April 2024. The platform reportedly claimed to link its price charts with real futures market data to appear legitimate, while using false advertising and so-called “teacher lecturers” to attract investors. The scheme is alleged to have involved more than 22,000 victims, causing losses exceeding 500 million yuan. Authorities also said the suspect and associates gained illicit profits of over 50 million yuan. According to the investigation by public security authorities in Lanzhou, Gansu, Mr. Zhongwei fled from Shanghai Pudong International Airport on 31 May 2024 before a formal arrest warrant was issued by the Lanzhou People’s Procuratorate on 24 July 2024. He and 21 associates were later charged with “illegal business operation” for running the scheme without regulatory approval or financial licences. Officials said the operation highlights strengthened cooperation between Thai and Chinese authorities in tackling transnational financial crime and locating fugitives who attempt to use Thailand as a hideout. Thaitabloid reported that Mr. Zhongwei is now in custody in Thailand, with authorities preparing legal procedures for his repatriation to China to face prosecution under the ongoing investigation. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 21:11:34 +0000Sir Paul McCartney joined Stephen Colbert for an emotional farewell as “The Late Show” aired its final episode after more than three decades on CBS. Get today's headlines by email The programme ended Thursday night with McCartney performing Hello Goodbye alongside Colbert, who sang backing vocals during the performance. Musicians Elvis Costello and Jon Batiste, along with members of the show’s staff, also took part in the closing number. A Return to a Historic StageThe finale also marked a return to a venue closely linked to McCartney’s career. The theatre that hosted “The Late Show” was also home to The Ed Sullivan Show, where The Beatles made one of their first US television appearances in 1964. During the interview segment, Colbert asked McCartney whether the theatre still brought back memories of Beatlemania. “When you close your eyes, do you hear the girls screaming?” Colbert asked, prompting loud cheers from audience members. “Yeah,” McCartney repliedAsked how often that still happens, the former Beatle answered: “Often.” McCartney also recalled the band wearing heavy television makeup during their Sullivan appearance, describing it as “bright orange”. “That’s very popular in certain circles these days,” Colbert joked, drawing laughter from the audience. Reflections on America and the Beatles FilmMcCartney spoke about how the Beatles once viewed the United States as “the land of the free” and “the greatest democracy”. “That was what it was,” he said. “It still is, hopefully.” The musician also discussed the forthcoming Beatles biopic project and praised Paul Mescal, who is set to portray him on screen. When Colbert asked who was “cuter” — a young McCartney or Mescal — the singer replied: “Me,” before adding that the actor was “very cute”. The End of ‘The Late Show’CBS announced in July 2025 that it would end “The Late Show” franchise, describing the move as a financial decision made during a difficult period for late-night television. The show first launched in 1993 with David Letterman as host before Colbert took over in 2015. Earlier in the finale, Colbert, Costello and Batiste performed Costello’s lesser-known song Jump Up. As “Hello Goodbye” came to an end, Colbert walked to the studio light switch and invited McCartney to join him. Together, they switched off the lights, plunging the theatre into darkness. The closing sequence then shifted into a surreal scene in which the building appeared inside a snow globe being sniffed by a dog. Colbert’s voice could be heard saying, “C’mon Benny, let’s go,” before the programme ended. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 21:08:16 +0000As noted above, the Royal Thai Police Act and Section 146 of the Thai Criminal Code address wearing official uniforms or insignia without authorization. But, people can buy "POLICE" items at local markets or online Lazada shops. And you often see people wearing clothing with "POLICE" written on them. Apparently, it comes down to whether there is the Intent to Deceive!Fri, 22 May 2026 21:04:35 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-army-protests-cambodian-fire-near-surin-r1938/The Royal Thai Army says five gunshots fired from the Cambodian side near the Surin border violated a joint ceasefire understanding and were intended to harass Thai troops. Get today's headlines by email According to Army spokesman Maj Gen Winthai Suvaree, the incident took place on May 21, 2026, while personnel from Ranger Company 2603 under the Suranaree Task Force were improving defensive positions and strengthening security near Border Marker 18 in Kap Choeng district, Surin province. At around 2.20pm, Thai personnel heard five rounds of small-arms fire coming from the south, approximately 600 metres away, in an area under Cambodian control. After stopping to assess the situation and observe the area, troops reported no irregularities and resumed their mission. The Army confirmed that no Thai personnel were injured during the incident. Thai forces also did not return fire, with Maj Gen Winthai stating that troops avoided responding in order to prevent revealing their positions and deployment. The Suranaree Task Force said units stationed along the border remain on alert and are continuing to follow established rules of engagement based on the situation on the ground. The Army added that, although the firing appeared to be long-range harassment, it was considered a clear violation of the existing joint statement between the two sides. The border area in Surin province has seen periodic tensions in the past, with both Thai and Cambodian forces maintaining a military presence in sensitive areas near the frontier. The latest exchange comes as authorities on both sides continue coordination efforts aimed at preventing escalation along the border. In response to the gunfire, the Suranaree Task Force said it would issue a formal warning and lodge a protest with the Cambodian side through local coordination channels. Thai military officials stressed that forces in the area remain prepared to respond if necessary while continuing to avoid actions that could worsen tensions. Security analysts have previously noted that even isolated incidents along disputed or sensitive border areas can increase strain between neighbouring forces if not quickly addressed through military coordination mechanisms. The Nation reported that Thai authorities have not announced any additional security measures following the incident, but troops operating in the area have been instructed to maintain heightened vigilance while carrying out ongoing defensive operations near the border. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 23 May 2026Fri, 22 May 2026 21:02:29 +0000The Royal Thai Army says five gunshots fired from the Cambodian side near the Surin border violated a joint ceasefire understanding and were intended to harass Thai troops. Get today's headlines by email According to Army spokesman Maj Gen Winthai Suvaree, the incident took place on May 21, 2026, while personnel from Ranger Company 2603 under the Suranaree Task Force were improving defensive positions and strengthening security near Border Marker 18 in Kap Choeng district, Surin province. At around 2.20pm, Thai personnel heard five rounds of small-arms fire coming from the south, approximately 600 metres away, in an area under Cambodian control. After stopping to assess the situation and observe the area, troops reported no irregularities and resumed their mission. The Army confirmed that no Thai personnel were injured during the incident. Thai forces also did not return fire, with Maj Gen Winthai stating that troops avoided responding in order to prevent revealing their positions and deployment. The Suranaree Task Force said units stationed along the border remain on alert and are continuing to follow established rules of engagement based on the situation on the ground. The Army added that, although the firing appeared to be long-range harassment, it was considered a clear violation of the existing joint statement between the two sides. The border area in Surin province has seen periodic tensions in the past, with both Thai and Cambodian forces maintaining a military presence in sensitive areas near the frontier. The latest exchange comes as authorities on both sides continue coordination efforts aimed at preventing escalation along the border. In response to the gunfire, the Suranaree Task Force said it would issue a formal warning and lodge a protest with the Cambodian side through local coordination channels. Thai military officials stressed that forces in the area remain prepared to respond if necessary while continuing to avoid actions that could worsen tensions. Security analysts have previously noted that even isolated incidents along disputed or sensitive border areas can increase strain between neighbouring forces if not quickly addressed through military coordination mechanisms. The Nation reported that Thai authorities have not announced any additional security measures following the incident, but troops operating in the area have been instructed to maintain heightened vigilance while carrying out ongoing defensive operations near the border. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 21:02:29 +0000A second federal lawsuit has been filed against the Trump administration’s planned $1.8 billion “Anti-Weaponization Fund”, escalating legal challenges over a compensation programme intended for people who say they were targeted by the Biden administration. Get today's headlines by email The complaint, filed on Friday in the Eastern District of Virginia, argues that the fund was created without congressional approval and violates constitutional limits on federal spending. The suit also claims the initiative breaches the 14th Amendment’s ban on using public money “in aid of insurrection or rebellion against the United States”. The legal action was brought by a coalition of nonprofit groups and individuals, including a former prosecutor involved in January 6 cases, the advocacy group Common Cause, the National Abortion Federation, and the city of New Haven, Connecticut. In court filings, the plaintiffs argued the fund lacked any legal foundation or oversight. “Created following a collusive agreement between the President and his own administration, this Fund has no congressional authorization, no basis in law, and no accountability,” the lawsuit stated. Second Legal ChallengeThe latest case follows a separate lawsuit filed earlier in Washington, D.C., by former Capitol Police officer Harry Dunn and Metropolitan Police officer Daniel Hodges. Both officers defended the Capitol during the January 6, 2021 attack and are seeking to block the fund before it is established. The Department of Justice announced the creation of the “Anti-Weaponization Fund” as part of a broader settlement arrangement involving President Donald Trump. In exchange, Trump agreed to drop a $10 billion lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service and two additional civil claims. The proposed fund has triggered criticism from both Democrats and some Republicans, particularly over the possibility that taxpayer money could ultimately benefit people convicted or accused in connection with the Capitol riot. Under the agreement, Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche is expected to establish the fund within 30 days. Blanche would also appoint a five-member commission responsible for reviewing and approving claims. Trump Defends the PlanAlthough Trump previously said he was not directly involved in creating the programme, he publicly defended it on social media on Friday. He said he had sacrificed the possibility of securing a large personal settlement in order to support people he described as victims of a “weaponized” Biden administration. Trump cited both the disclosure of his tax returns and the FBI search of his Mar-a-Lago property among the grievances connected to the settlement discussions. The Virginia lawsuit also challenges the administration’s planned use of the federal Judgment Fund, a permanent appropriation typically used to pay legal settlements and court judgments against the government. Plaintiffs argue the administration is improperly using that fund to bypass Congress’s constitutional authority over federal spending. Questions Over Legal StandingDespite growing political controversy, some legal experts have questioned whether the lawsuits will succeed. A key issue is whether the plaintiffs can demonstrate legal standing — meaning they can show they would be directly harmed by the creation of the fund. ABC News legal contributor James Sample said the earlier case brought by the Capitol officers may struggle to meet that requirement because many of the harms they cite relate to past events rather than future consequences tied directly to the compensation programme. Sample acknowledged that the officers had faced threats and harassment since speaking publicly about January 6, but argued those injuries may not be legally connected to the proposed use of the Judgment Fund. The lawsuits were filed before the compensation fund itself has formally begun operating. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 23 May 2026 View full articleFri, 22 May 2026 20:59:20 +0000Nexus there is little point trying to discuss threads with Joebloggs he will just feed you. What ever you say he will pull you down even if you produce videos in Evidence he will have an answer for you so your wasting your time and effort, he will never accept anything on Tommy Robinson. He is proud of the way British justice is served but after 2 court trials where the culprits have been allowed to walk free after comitting GBH on a serving police officer says it all about justice in the UK. Joebloggs will come back with his full page answer but the second case is different from the 1st where one of the Thugs was jailed.Fri, 22 May 2026 20:56:03 +0000I'm sure her 'cousin' agrees.Fri, 22 May 2026 20:49:05 +0000