THAILAND LIVE Thailand Live Wednesday 19 February 2025

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Thailand cracks down nationwide: Police to monitor foreign nationals closely

 

Photo courtesy of The Nation

 

Thailand’s national police chief, Police General Kitrat Panphet, has directed police forces across the nation to heighten surveillance of foreign nationals amid escalating concerns over public order and safety. This new measure, announced on 17 February, stems from reports of foreign visitors’ conduct that disrupts social harmony, violates public morals, and potentially damages Thailand's reputation.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352152-thailand-cracks-down-police-to-monitor-foreign-nationals-closely/

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Thai PM Assures Locals: No Israeli Takeover in Pai District - video

 

Picture of Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra courtesy of Amarin TV

 

Thailand's Prime Minister, Paethongtarn Shinawatra, has addressed and dismissed concerns over alleged Israeli control of the picturesque Pai district in Mae Hong Son. Responding to circulating rumours, Shinawatra, 38, stressed that the notion of an Israeli influx overtaking the area and restricting Thai access is unfounded.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352154-thai-pm-assures-locals-no-israeli-takeover-in-pai-district-video/

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Vote Rigging and Money Laundering Allegations Hit Thai Senate

 

Picture courtesy: Naewna via Thai Newsroom

 

Thailand's political landscape faces turmoil as reports emerge that up to 138 senators might be implicated in alleged electoral manipulation during last year's senatorial elections. Of the 200 serving senators, those suspected are believed to have engaged in practices compromising the integrity of a complex three-tier voting system.

 

Full story:  https://aseannow.com/topic/1352158-vote-rigging-and-money-laundering-allegations-hit-thai-senate/

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Patong Police Crack Down on Reckless Foreign Tourist Riders

 

Picture of police stopping a Thai man in Phuket courtesy of Phuket News

 

In an effort to address the rampant chaos on Phuket's roads, Patong police initiated a significant crackdown on reckless driving among foreign tourists over the weekend. On Saturday, February 15, authorities targeted local motorbike rental operators, penalising over ten businesses for failing to verify tourists' driving licences before renting out vehicles.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352161-patong-police-crack-down-on-reckless-foreign-tourist-riders/

[Georgealbert]

Pick-Up Truck Loses Control, Smashes into Three Motorbikes Before Landing on Tow Truck

 

An incident in Amnat Charoen saw a pick-up truck driver lose control, crash into three parked motorcycles, become airborne  and landing on the back of a tow truck. Miraculously, no one was seriously injured.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352202-pick-up-truck-loses-control-smashes-into-three-motorbikes-before-landing-on-tow-truck/

 

[Georgealbert]

Man Seriously Injured After Wild Boar Attack in Forest

 

A villager searching for forest produce in Lampang province was left seriously injured after being attacked by a wild boar. The man sustained multiple deep wounds but managed to call for help.
 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352203-man-seriously-injured-after-wild-boar-attack-in-forest/

 

[Georgealbert]

Thai Airways Flight Declares Emergency Over Gulf of Thailand Due to Passenger Medical Crisis
 

A Thai Airways flight issued an emergency signal while flying over the Gulf of Thailand on the evening of 18 February, later revealed to be due to a critical medical emergency involving a passenger.
 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352204-thai-airways-flight-declares-emergency-over-gulf-of-thailand-due-to-passenger-medical-crisis/

 

[Georgealbert]

French Cyclist Killed in Collision with Lorry in Rayong
 

A 78-year-old French tourist has died in a crash in Rayong after being struck and run over by a lorry while cycling.
 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352205-french-cyclist-killed-in-collision-with-lorry-in-rayong/

 

[Georgealbert]

Drunken Husband Stabs Wife Over Dinner Dispute
 

A drunken man in Samut Prakan attacked his wife with a broken bottle after she refused to serve him food, leaving her with serious injuries.
 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352206-drunken-husband-stabs-wife-over-dinner-dispute/

 

[Georgealbert]

Employee Shuttle Bus Overturns in Pathum Thani, Injuring Eight
 

A shuttle bus transporting employees in Pathum Thani lost control and overturned after its brakes locked, crashing into a roadside electricity pole. Eight people sustained injuries in the incident.
 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352207-employee-shuttle-bus-overturns-in-pathum-thani-injuring-eight/

 

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UPDATE:

 

Anutin Dismisses Israeli Pai Takeover Rumours

 

Picture courtesy: Naewna

 

Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has addressed the swirling rumours concerning an alleged Israeli control over Pai district, citing them as unfounded and implausible. This pressing issue has drawn significant attention following social media claims of Israelis erecting barriers at a hotel-turned-synagogue, purportedly restricting entry to Thais in Mae Hong Son province.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352154-thai-pm-assures-locals-no-israeli-takeover-in-pai-district-video/#findComment-19598477

[Georgealbert]

Man Caught at Police Checkpoint with 158 Meth Pills While Chasing Wife

A 42-year-old man from Nonthaburi was arrested at a police checkpoint in Bang Lamung, Chonburi, while attempting to reconcile with his wife. Officers discovered a significant quantity of methamphetamine (yaba) and crystal meth (ice) in his vehicle, leading to the detention of four suspects.
 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352208-man-caught-at-police-checkpoint-with-158-meth-pills-while-chasing-wife/

 

[Georgealbert]

Motorcyclist Crushed to Death Trying to Overtake Lorry in Samut Prakan

 

A 50-year-old electrician was killed when he lost control of his motorcycle, while overtaking a lorry, causing him to be run over by its rear wheels. The accident occurred at around 14:00 on 18 February, on Suksawat–Pom Phra Chul Road, near a power substation in Phra Samut Chedi district, Samut Prakan.
 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352209-motorcyclist-crushed-to-death-trying-to-overtake-lorry-in-samut-prakan/

 

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Thai PM Calms Tensions Over Cambodian Anthem Incident

 

Prasat Ta Muean Thom temple. Picture courtesy: Wikipedia

 

An incident at a temple in Surin has rekindled historical tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, sparking concern among locals and officials alike. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has sought to downplay the situation, urging calm and emphasising diplomatic relations.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352210-thai-pm-calms-tensions-over-cambodian-anthem-incident/

 

[Georgealbert]

Forest Official Arrested for Carrying Firearm on Bus to Korat
 

A forestry official has been arrested at Bangkok’s Chatuchak Bus Terminal for carrying a firearm while travelling to visit his girlfriend in Nakhon Ratchasima. He claimed he was afraid of leaving the weapon at home due to concerns over theft.
 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352211-forest-official-arrested-for-carrying-firearm-on-bus-to-korat/

 

[Georgealbert]

Mentally Ill Woman Takes Child Hostage in Sisaket

A mentally ill woman experiencing a psychotic episode took her three-year-old daughter hostage and assaulted her own mother in Sisaket province. Authorities successfully intervened and transported the woman to a psychiatric hospital for treatment.
 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352213-mentally-ill-woman-takes-child-hostage-in-sisaket/

 

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Thailand Acts to Boost Rice Prices Amid Global Pressures

 

Picture courtesy: Wikipedia

 

In an effort to buoy the faltering rice prices within Thailand, the Commerce Ministry is rolling out a series of initiatives designed to stabilise and improve market conditions.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352215-thailand-acts-to-boost-rice-prices-amid-global-pressures/

 

[Georgealbert]

Man Killed in Trench Collapse at Construction Site in Surat Thani
 

A 45-year-old man lost his life after being buried by a trench collapse while working at a construction site in Phun Phin district, Surat Thani.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352214-man-killed-in-trench-collapse-at-construction-site-in-surat-thani/

 

[Georgealbert]

Foreign Workers Smuggled in Pickup Truck Seized at Border Checkpoint
 

In a successful operation conducted by local authorities in collaboration with the military, a group of foreign workers attempting to enter Thailand illegally was arrested at a border checkpoint in Sangkhlaburi district, Kanchanaburi province.
 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352216-foreign-workers-smuggled-in-pickup-truck-seized-at-border-checkpoint/

 

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Future Uncertain for Retiree Bank Accounts in Thailand

 

AN composite for reference only

 

ANALYSIS

 

While most tourists in Thailand enjoy their holidays without needing a bank account, some are encountering difficulties when trying to open one.

 

Full story:  https://aseannow.com/topic/1352201-future-uncertain-for-retiree-bank-accounts-in-thailand/

[Georgealbert]

Physical Education Teacher Found Dead in Krabi Teacher’s Accommodation
 

An incident occurred in Krabi on 18 February when a female physical education teacher was found dead in her teacher’s accommodation. The body of 31-year-old Miss View was discovered by a fellow teacher, who had grown concerned when she failed to attend her morning class.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352217-physical-education-teacher-found-dead-in-krabi-teacher’s-accommodation/

 

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Thai Police Bust Massive Multi-Billion Baht Fraud Ring

 

Picture courtesy: Thai Rath

 

In a major victory against international online fraud, Thai police have dismantled a sophisticated scam operation run by a Thai-Chinese gang that defrauded victims of billions of baht. The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) announced the arrests of ten suspects across Bangkok and other provinces. This culminated after extensive raids and investigations that began last week and concluded on Monday.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352218-thai-police-bust-massive-multi-billion-baht-fraud-ring/

 

[Georgealbert]

Rescue Volunteers Resuscitate Woman After Car Crash into Kanchanaburi Canal

A 28-year-old woman has miraculously survived a near-fatal crash in Kanchanaburi after rescue volunteers successfully revived her using CPR.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352219-rescue-volunteers-resuscitate-woman-after-car-crash-into-kanchanaburi-canal/

 

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Samui's Real Estate Draws Global Attention Amidst Phuket Boom

 

Picture courtesy: Wikipedia

 

Interest in Koh Samui’s property market is climbing as American and European buyers, deterred by rising prices in Phuket, seek more affordable alternatives. This shift has been partially caused by Russian and Chinese demand driving up villa costs in Phuket.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352220-samuis-real-estate-draws-global-attention-amidst-phuket-boom/

 

[Georgealbert]

Thai Woman Assaulted by Chinese Ex-Boyfriend, Police Release Suspect Without Charges

Picture from the scene courtesy of SiamChon
 

A 23-year-old Thai woman was left bloodied and terrified after allegedly being assaulted by her Chinese ex-boyfriend, who reportedly attempted to cut off her toe during the attack. Shockingly, local police released the suspect without pressing charges, citing a private settlement between the parties.
 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352221-thai-woman-assaulted-by-chinese-ex-boyfriend-police-release-suspect-without-charges/

 

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Ice Cream Vendor Scammed with Fake 1,000 Baht Note

 

Picture courtesy: Daily News

 

An ice cream vendor in Ang Thong, Thailand was left devastated when a scammer altered a 100 baht note to resemble 1,000 baht, absconding with the change after a quick purchase.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352224-ice-cream-vendor-scammed-with-fake-1000-baht-note/

 

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Bank of Thailand Eyes Rate Cut Amidst Sluggish Growth Forecasts

 

Bank of Thailand. File photo

 

In a climate of economic uncertainty, Thailand's GDP growth for 2024 has underwhelmed expectations, leading experts to predict a possible rate cut by the Bank of Thailand in the first half of the year. Despite a boost from thriving exports, a rebound in tourism, and government stimulus measures, the overall growth rate was hampered due to reduced consumer spending on big-ticket items like automobiles and real estate.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352227-bank-of-thailand-eyes-rate-cut-amidst-sluggish-growth-forecasts/

 

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China Pressures Thailand to Uphold Myanmar Utility Bans

 

Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul directs the Provincial Electricity Authority in Bangkok to suspend power supply to five places in Myanmar. Courtesy: Tananchai Keawsowattana  via Radio Free Asia

 

In a strategic move against fraud, China has urged Thailand to maintain its utility restrictions on Myanmar. Since February, Thailand has limited electricity, fuel, and internet access at five Myanmar sites. These measures have been instrumental in curbing illegal call centres that plague the region.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352234-china-pressures-thailand-to-uphold-myanmar-utility-bans/

 

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Thaksin, Anwar Ibrahim, and Brunei Sultan Discuss Myanmar Crisis

 

Picture courtesy: Thai Newsroom

 

Key figures from Southeast Asia gathered for a crucial meeting in Brunei, intensifying discussions on pressing regional issues. Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, and Sultan of Brunei Hassanal Bolkiah focused their talks on the Myanmar crisis, the South China Sea disputes, and enhancing intra-ASEAN trade.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352235-thaksin-anwar-ibrahim-and-brunei-sultan-discuss-myanmar-crisis/

 

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Thailand's Casino Bill Targets Tourism, Limits Local Entry

 

Picture courtesy: Macao News

 

In Thailand, the new Entertainment Complex Bill has proposed a casino-focused plan aimed primarily at boosting foreign tourism. However, strict measures are devised to limit access for locals to curtail gambling concerns, according to Pakorn Nilprapunt, the secretary-general of the Council of State (CoS).

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352237-thailands-casino-bill-targets-tourism-limits-local-entry/