MYANMAR
Myanmar court jails five Thais for gambling in Tachilek
Natthawat Laping
The Nation

BANGKOK: -- Myanmar authorities on Monday jailed 16 people - including five Thai men - for their involvement in illegal gambling in a hotel in Tachilek province - just across from Mai Sai in the Thai far north - and continued to hunt for three suspects who jumped bail.

The 16 were transported amid tight security to Keng Tung Prison, about 150km from the border with Chiang Rai.

The Tachilek Provincial Court sentenced the casino owner to 21 months jail, and nine casino employees to 12 months and nine customers, including six Thais, to six months in custody.

The Thais are reportedly from Bangkok and connected to influential Thai figures. Two locals and a Thai were reportedly on the run after each posted Bt160,000 in cash as bail. The Thai was sentenced in absentia.

Details about the case emerged in early February when Myanmar authorities raided the unauthorised casino on the hotel's second floor and arrested 19 people and seized gambling equipment and Bt1.9 million in cash and about 140,000 kyat.


-- The Nation 2014-04-14

Ayutthaya swarmed with Songkran revelers

AYUTTHAYA, 14 April 2014 (NNT) – More visitors have been heading to Ayutthaya province for Songkran celebrations, with historical sites and Buddhist temples topping their must-visit list.

Compared to yesterday, a larger number of cars were reported to be packing the roads leading to the old capital of Ayutthaya today. Most of the incoming Songkran celebrants have plans to pay respect to Buddha images at various temples in the province. The Ayutthaya Historical Park as well as the City Pillar Shrine have also welcomed throngs of visitors this long holiday.

Local traffic police have imposed a ban against water trucks on the historical road of Si San Phet during the Songkran period in a bid to stave off traffic gridlock. Instead, the Tourism Authority of Thailand has prepared fresh water for those who want to get themselves and others soaked. Many revelers enjoy being hosed down by elephants, which are being employed along with sprinkler machines. Donations are also accepted for the pachyderms at the event.

The Songkran celebrations in Ayutthaya will go on until April 15, with musical performances and free food available for everyone.


-- NNT 2014-04-14

MYANMAR
Myanmar court jails five Thais for gambling in Tachilek
Natthawat Laping
The Nation

Myanmar authorities on Monday jailed 16 people - including five Thai men - for their involvement in illegal gambling in a hotel in Tachilek province - just across from Mai Sai in the Thai far north - and continued to hunt for three suspects who jumped bail.

Full Story: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/718905-myanmar-court-jails-five-thais-for-gambling-in-tachilek/

to continue:

Thailand Live Tuesday 15 Apr 2014

http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/718964-thailand-live-tuesday-15-apr-2014/