Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong has stood firm against a recent petition asking the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) to investigate the ministry's alleged misconduct relating to Thaksin Shinawatra's release from the hospital and parole.

 

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Justice Minister Refutes Allegations of Misconduct Over Thaksin's Hospital Discharge

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325814-justice-minister-refutes-allegations-of-misconduct-over-thaksins-hospital-discharge/

Thai woman spills beans on corrupt cop’s love-linked traffic fines

 

Photo via Facebook/ ขอนแก่นมีด่านบอกด้วย แจ้งข่าว and ThaiRath

 

A Thai policewoman shed light on police corruption through social media posts, accusing a fellow police officer at Mueang Khon Kaen Police Station of directing traffic fine payments into his alleged girlfriend's bank account.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325816-thai-woman-spills-beans-on-corrupt-cop’s-love-linked-traffic-fines/

Govt brushes off central bank’s call for review of digital wallet scheme

 

Picture: Thai PBS

 

The Bank of Thailand (BoT) has suggested that the government restrict the 'digital wallet' cash benefit scheme to around 15 million financially vulnerable individuals, instead of the planned 50 million in its proposal.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325845-govt-brushes-off-central-bank’s-call-for-review-of-digital-wallet-scheme/

 

Thai Police Hunt Japanese Suspects in Grisly Murder Case

 

Picture: Thai PBS

 

Two Japanese men are under investigation by Thai police for allegedly murdering and dismembering a fellow countryman. The victim's remains, which included a skull and hands, were discovered in multiple black plastic bags discarded around Nonthaburi province.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325846-thai-police-hunt-japanese-suspects-in-grisly-murder-case/

 

Taxi Driver Averts Potential Disaster with Drunken Motorist 

 

Image courtesy of tum.step.thep on TikTok
 

An incident on Bangkok's busy streets involving a drunk driver highlighted the risk of driving under the influence. The driver unknowingly proceeded with a missing tyre, causing sparks from the wheel rim. A vigilant taxi driver, Phasda Phutabanak, observed this dangerous situation during his late-night shift.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325847-taxi-driver-averts-potential-disaster-with-drunken-motorist/

 

Pattaya Authorities Target More Chengdu Tourists through Roadshow

 

PHOTO: PRPATTAYA

 

On April 23rd, Pattaya officials participated in the “Pattaya Roadshow to Chengdu 2024” seminar, aiming to boost Chinese tourism from Chengdu.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325848-pattaya-authorities-target-more-chengdu-tourists-through-roadshow/

 

Chiang Mai Massage Parlour Owner Apprehended for Underage Prostitution

 

 

A police raid was carried out on April 23, 2024, at a massage parlour in Mueang Chiang Mai following allegations of forced underage sex work.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325849-chiang-mai-massage-parlour-owner-apprehended-for-underage-prostitution/

 

Thai Transport Minister to Discuss Rail and 'Land Bridge' Project in China

 

File photo

 

Suriya Juangroongruangkit, Thailand's Transport Minister, will travel to China from May 6- 15 to participate in the 31st Thailand-China Railway Cooperation Meeting. 

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325850-thai-transport-minister-to-discuss-rail-and-land-bridge-project-in-china/

 

Health Ministry approves medical use of opium and magic mushrooms

 

Photo courtesy of The Nation
 

In a historic directive, the Thai Public Health Ministry has approved the use of opium and magic mushrooms for medical treatment and research.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325851-health-ministry-approves-medical-use-of-opium-and-magic-mushrooms/

 

Bangkok & Chiang Mai Ranked among Top Asian Cities for Expats in 2024

 

Picture courtesy of Steven Wilcox, Unsplash
 

A latest report has highlighted Bangkok and Chiang Mai as two of the top 10 Asian cities for expats in 2024. The findings reinforce the appeal of Thailand to a global populace.

 

Full. story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325852-bangkok-chiang-mai-ranked-among-top-asian-cities-for-expats-in-2024/

 

Faulty Aircraft Disrupts Operations at Phuket Airport

 

Picture courtesy of AoT Phuket
 

A faulty aircraft caused major disruptions at the Phuket International Airport. The aircraft, which experienced a hydraulic steering system failure, was stuck on the runway. 

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325854-faulty-aircraft-disrupts-operations-at-phuket-airport/

 

Health Experts Debunk False Papaya Seed Cancer Cure Claims

 

Photo courtesy of Yahoo News UK screenshot

 

Health authorities have exposed the false notion that papaya seeds can cure cancer, a myth that became a social media sensation.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325856-health-experts-debunk-false-papaya-seed-cancer-cure-claims/

 

Pattaya Immigration Nab 21 Burmese People Without Passports

 

Photo courtesy of TMN Cable TV Pattaya

 

21 Burmese individuals without proper documentation have been apprehended in Pattaya. Local police, led by Pol Lt Col Weerachai Thinkhamut, raided two rented homes on Soi Kho Phai after receiving complaints about disruptive noise. 

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325857-pattaya-immigration-nab-21-burmese-people-without-passports/

 

Illegal Thai Workers Protest in South Korea, Draw Criticism Online

 

Photo by Facebook/ Fonfon Snt via Twitter/ Red Skull

 

Thai illegal workers in South Korea have sparked outrage online for recently staging a protest against their arrests. The protestors gathered in front of an immigration office in Gyeonggi Province, asking for the local authorities to halt the crackdown on illegal workers in the country.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325858-illegal-thai-workers-protest-in-south-korea-draw-criticism-online/

 

Thai Cabinet Pushes for UNESCO Heritage Tag for Songkhla

 

Photo courtesy of Museum Thailand

 

The Thai Cabinet has approved the proposal to get UNESCO World Heritage status for four ancient towns in Songkhla province. This is a significant move aimed at preserving the rich cultural heritage in the region.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325860-thai-cabinet-pushes-for-unesco-heritage-tag-for-songkhla/

 

Thailand Takes Action on Refugee Crisis Amid Thai-Myanmar Dispute

 

Picture courtesy of Assawin Pinitwong

 

Thailand's government committee, under the leadership of Deputy Prime Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, met for the first time to discuss the refugee crisis and enhance security prompted by the Thai-Myanmar border conflict.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325861-thailand-takes-action-on-refugee-crisis-amid-thai-myanmar-dispute/

 

Russian Businessman Arrested for Alleged Assault, Illegal Weapons

 

Picture courtesy of Phuket Express

 

This past Tuesday, a 38-year-old Russian businessman was taken into custody on Koh Samui.  Identified only as Mr. Nikhita, he was arrested by the Bophut Police. He is facing severe charges of assault and illegal weapons possession. The raid on his property was prompted by a tip-off from a local.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325862-russian-businessman-arrested-for-alleged-assault-illegal-weapons/

 

UPDATE:

 

Anticipated Low Season Challenges Thai Tourism Operators

 

Pattaya Beach, Chon Buri. Image courtesy of Thailand Tourism

 

Thai tourism operators are bracing for the annual low season following the country's Songkran Holidays, a time usually marked by a high influx of tourists. 

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325759-thailand-enters-low-tourism-season-hopes-rest-on-chinese-visitors/?do=findComment&comment=18868115

Fire Sparks Arson Concerns at Rayong Chemical Warehouse

 

Photo via Facebook/ มูลนิธิบูรณะนิเวศ (EARTH)

 

A fire that broke out at chemical warehouses owned by Win Process company in Rayong, has raised arson suspicions. The company is located in the Ban Khai district of Rayong, an eastern province. Despite the extensive damage, the company owner has not given out any statement.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325863-fire-sparks-arson-concerns-at-rayong-chemical-warehouse/

 

Thai Firms Collaborate to Develop Waste-to-Energy Power Plants

 

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

A consortium of Thai power and waste management companies intend to build 12 waste-to-energy power facilities and three refuse-derived fuel production plants. The move is part of the country’s effort to support bio, circular, and green economic strategies.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325864-thai-firms-collaborate-to-develop-waste-to-energy-power-plants/

 

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Thursday 25 April 2024

 

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325865-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-thursday-25-april-2024/

 

Prachinburi's Stubborn Landfill Fire Stresses Local Community

 

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

Firefighters are battling a severe landfill fire in Prachinburi, Thailand, that has been smoldering nonstop, covering an expansive 17 rai area and releasing unwelcome smoke and bad smell, affecting three nearby subdistricts.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325866-prachinburis-stubborn-landfill-fire-stresses-local-community/

 

30 Deaths from Heatwaves in Thailand

 

Image courtesy of Khaosod

 

Thailand's Ministry of Public Health has alerted the public to the perils of the ongoing heatwaves, following the death of 30 individuals from heatstroke this year. 

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325872-30-deaths-from-heatwaves-in-thailand/

 

Heatwave Alert: Thailand Expects 43C Weather and Severe Summer Storms

 

Picture courtesy of Freepik

 

A heatwave alert has been issued by the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) as temperatures might rise up to 43 degrees Celsius. The warning covers 45 provinces and is accompanied by a risk of summer storms, strong winds, and hail in some areas. 

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325874-heatwave-alert-thailand-expects-43c-weather-and-severe-summer-storms/

 

Drug-Induced Violent Spree Ends in Arrest in Samut Prakan

 

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

A man, high on drugs, went on a rampage injuring multiple people in Samut Prakan province yesterday. The man, only identified as Samhing, first assaulted his family members before stealing a pickup truck, damaging several vehicles and ending up under a motorway where he was restrained by the police.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325878-drug-induced-violent-spree-ends-in-arrest-in-samut-prakan/

 

Huge Fire Engulfs Motorcycle Parts Shops in Loei

 

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

A massive fire broke out, destroying three connected motorcycle parts shops in Loei, Thailand, causing several explosions.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325880-huge-fire-engulfs-motorcycle-parts-shops-in-loei/

 

House Speaker Advocates for Referendum Before Charter Change Vote

 

Image courtesy of Thai PBS World

 

House Speaker Wan Muhamad Noor Matha believes a referendum is required for public approval before the proposed charter amendment can be acknowledged.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325884-house-speaker-advocates-for-referendum-before-charter-change-vote/

 

UPDATE:

 

Thai Police Hunt for Japanese Murder Suspects

 

Photo via Channel 3 and Facebook/ คุยข่าว เมืองนนท์

 

Two Japanese men are being sought by Thai authorities for the gruesome murder and dismemberment of Kabashima Ryosuke, another Japanese national.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325846-thai-police-hunt-japanese-suspects-in-grisly-murder-case/?do=findComment&comment=18868712

 

Rescue Operation for Huge Python Trapped in Drainage Pipe

 

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

A near 4-meter long python was recently found stuck in a drain pipe at a house in the Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province. The reptile appeared to have eaten something sizeable, possibly a cat, prior to getting lodged in the pipe.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325888-rescue-operation-for-huge-python-trapped-in-drainage-pipe/

 

Thai Airways bids farewell to iconic Boeing 747 ‘Queen of the Skies’

 

 

Thai Airways has officially said goodbye to the iconic Boeing 747, also known as the 'Queen of the Skies.' This decision comes on the back of Air India retiring its last four Boeing 747-400s. The Thai airline held a grand farewell ceremony for the much-loved aircraft.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325895-thai-airways-bids-farewell-to-iconic-boeing-747-‘queen-of-the-skies’/