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Deposed Deputy Police Chief Retreats From Legal Battle Against PM By Thai Newsroom Reporters Former deputy police chief Pol. Gen. Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, left, and Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, right. IN WHAT WAS SEEN as a surprise withdrawal, former deputy police chief Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn has changed his mind to no longer wage a legal battle against Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. Pol. Gen. Surachate yesterday (Apr. 23) withdrew his complaint which he had filed yesterday with the National Anti-Corruption Commission to accuse the Pheu Thai-backed prime minister of perpetrating power abuse by having earlier named Pol. Gen. Torsak Sukwimon as police chief and by deposing him from the post of deputy police chief in the face of money laundering charges allegedly involving kickbacks from illegal online gambling operators. Pol. Gen. Surachate was only quoted as saying he had decidedly had “no doubts” about the prime minister’s acts which may be evidently affecting him and finally had his lawyer withdraw his complaint. Nevertheless, the NACC is yet obliged to investigate allegations of power abuse committed by the prime minister following a petition earlier lodged by former police chief Seripisut Temiyavej, said NACC secretary-general Niwatichai Kasemmongkol. Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-04-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Video Shows Taxi Striking Pedestrian at Bangkok Crosswalk: Public Outcry Ignites Debate on Road Safety Laws By Kittisak Phalaharn Bangkok—On April 23rd, 2024, Thai social media users posted a video of a pedestrian being hit by a taxi while legally crossing the road at a crosswalk in front of Asiatique The Riverfront, Bang Kho Laem, Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325760-video-shows-taxi-striking-pedestrian-at-bangkok-crosswalk-public-outcry-ignites-debate/

Bangkok—On April 23rd, 2024, Thai social media users posted a video of a pedestrian being hit by a taxi while legally crossing the road at a crosswalk in front of Asiatique The Riverfront, Bang Kho Laem, Bangkok. In response to the viral video of the accident, Wat Phraya Krai police officers publicly revealed the case details that the officers received via an accident report at 1:36 PM, on April 20th. The video shows a dozen pedestrians waiting to cross the road. The emergency services and police officers were dispatched to the accident scene and found a taxi driver, publicly identified only as Mr. Patsathi, 58, and a victim, publicly identified only as Mr. Thanat, 44. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Enters Low Tourism Season: Industry Faces Challenges Post-Songkran, Hopes Rest on Chinese Visitors By Kittisak Phalaharn On April 22nd, 2024, Mr. Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, the President of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), publicly revealed that Thailand is officially entering the low season. Thai Tourism operators may struggle with low incoming tourists after the Songkran Holidays. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325759-thailand-enters-low-tourism-season-hopes-rest-on-chinese-visitors/

On April 22nd, 2024, Mr. Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, the President of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), publicly revealed that Thailand is officially entering the low season. Thai Tourism operators may struggle with low incoming tourists after the Songkran Holidays. Right after the Songkran Celebrations, Thailand would officially enter the low season as it does every year. Many tourism-related businesses might have to keep the business alive and meet the tourists’ demand with alternative tourism, according to Sisdivachr. This was the nature of the tourism sector that did not change for the past decade. The low season caused the number of western, eastern, and European tourists to gradually decrease. However, China visitors were estimated to visit Thailand as there was a current visa exemption between Thailand and China, stated Sisdivachr. By Kittisak Phalaharn Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pheu Thai Digital Wallet Project Endorsed By All Coalition Partners By Thai Newsroom Reporters Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin talking to reporter, Apr. 23, 2024. Photo: Thai Rath THE PHEU THAI-INITIATED populist handout campaign, known as the 10,000-baht digital wallet project, today (Apr. 23) secured solid support from all coalition partners. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325758-pheu-thai-digital-wallet-project-endorsed-by-all-coalition-partners/

THE PHEU THAI-INITIATED populist handout campaign, known as the 10,000-baht digital wallet project, today (Apr. 23) secured solid support from all coalition partners. In a press conference at Government House, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin confirmed all coalition partners, namely the Bhumjaithai, Palang Pracharath, Ruam Thai Sang Chart, Prachachart and Chart Thai Pattana, have lent their unfaltering support for the Pheu Thai handout campaign, scheduled to begin in the fourth quarter of this year. Nevertheless, the cabinet today resolved to have the Council of State determine as to whether a sum of 172.3 billion baht could be legally provided from the Bank for Agriculture & Agricultural Cooperatives for the delayed digital wallet project calculated to need a total of 500 billion baht in funding. By Thai Newsroom Reporters TOP: Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin talking to reporter, Apr. 23, 2024. Photo: Thai Rath Full story: THAI NEWSROOM 2024-04-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai Cabinet Approves Visa Exemption for Russian Tourists, But Changed from 90 Days to 60 By Adam Judd Thailand-In a move to boost tourism and economic growth, the Thai cabinet has announced an extension of the visa-free scheme for Russian visitors. Starting May 1st, Russians can enjoy a 60-day visa exemption, but this is shorter than before, replacing the previous 90-day programme set to conclude at April’s end. This strategic decision aims to enhance tourism revenue and invigorate the national economy, as articulated by government spokesman Chai Wacharonke. The initiative, proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reflects the government’s commitment to fostering international relations and tourism, according to Chai. Full story: THE PATTAYA NEWS 2024-04-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand offers visa-free travel to Russian visitors for 3 months by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เศรษฐา ทวีสิน - Srettha Thavisin Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today announced that Thailand is offering a visa-free scheme to Russian visitors for three months from May 1 to July 31. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325757-thailand-offers-visa-free-travel-to-russian-visitors-for-3-months/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin today announced that Thailand is offering a visa-free scheme to Russian visitors for three months from May 1 to July 31. PM Srettha held a press conference at Government House at 11.50am, today, April 23, following a Cabinet meeting earlier in the day. In a part of his speech, the 62 year old Thai PM mentioned that the Cabinet agreed to offer visa-free travel to government officials from Bangladesh while also approving visa-free travel for Russian nationals. The PM explained that Russian visitors would be allowed to enter Thailand and stay for 60 days without the need to apply for a visa. This special measure will come into effect for three months, from May 1 to July 31, according to a report on PPTV HD. This measure will replace the former visa-free arrangement, which expires at the end of this month. Under the previous arrangement, Russian citizens were permitted to enter Thailand and stay for 90 days from November 1 of last year to April 30 of this year. While Thailand prepares to extend a visa-free plan for Russian nationals, MRG Online reported last month that Sri Lanka had cancelled its visa exemption plan for both Russian and Ukrainian nationals due to racism. This decision followed an incident at a nightclub called The Sarayka Lounge, where locals were banned from entering with a sign that read “Face Control: White.” Thai people, especially in Phuket, previously expressed concerns about the behaviour of Russian nationals on social media. They accused Russians of taking their jobs by illegally working and operating businesses. Several crimes committed by Russian nationals have also made headlines in Thai news outlets. According to a report from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, more than 9.9 million foreign visitors entered Thailand between January 1 and April 7, generating over 480 billion baht in income for the country. Russian nationals ranked among the top three foreign visitors with 661,000 people entering during the period. The other two top countries were China (1.8 million people) and Malaysia (1.2 million people). Thailand began implementing a visa-free scheme for visitors from China and Kazakhstan last year. The country then reached a mutual visa-free agreement with China to allow residents from both countries to travel and stay for 30 days without visas, starting from March 1 onwards. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ เศรษฐา ทวีสิน - Srettha Thavisin Full story: The Thaiger 2024-04-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Big Joke drops case against the PM as his nameplate and photo have been removed at Royal Thai Police HQ by James Morris and Son Nguyen Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, on Tuesday, refused to discuss the Big Joke case. It comes as the former top cop withdrew a complaint against the PM made on Monday, less than 24 hours later, on Tuesday morning. Meanwhile, the former policeman’s nameplate was removed and his office locked at Police Headquarters. He was, furthermore, removed from the Royal Thai Police website. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325756-big-joke-drops-case-against-the-pm-as-his-nameplate-photo-have-been-removed-at-police-hq/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, on Tuesday, refused to discuss the Big Joke case. It comes as the former top cop withdrew a complaint against the PM made on Monday, less than 24 hours later, on Tuesday morning. Meanwhile, the former policeman’s nameplate was removed and his office locked at Police Headquarters. He was, furthermore, removed from the Royal Thai Police website. Big Joke drops case against PM. His nameplate and photo were removed at Royal Thai Police HQ. The National Anti-Corruption Commission, however, confirms an ongoing investigation into the PM. Big Joke’s era ends as his nameplate vanishes and website photos are moved. Surachate inexplicably withdraws his malfeasance charges against the PM. On Tuesday, the Secretary-general of the anti-corruption agency revealed that General Surachate Hakparn had withdrawn his malfeasance report against Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. The top official however explained that substantial allegations made by General Surachate relating to his removal from the police force remain. At the same time, he further explained that the Prime Minister is already being investigated over the affair. It followed a complaint from the former police chief, party leader and MP, General Sereepisuth Temeeyaves. Additionally on Tuesday, in what appears like a death knell for General Surachate’s future as a policeman, it was made known his nameplate was removed from his former office at Royal Thai Police headquarters. Simultaneously his name and photo were removed from the police website. On Tuesday, in another twist in the ongoing Big Joke saga, the Secretary-General of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), Niwatchai Kasemmongkol, told reporters that General Surachate Hakparn had withdrawn the complaint against the prime minister. by James Morris and Son Nguyen Full story: Thai Examiner.com 2024-04-24 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Wednesday 24 April 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1325754-thailand-live-wednesday-24-april-2024/

A Thai couple took to social media to issue a warning, alleging that a foreign man attempted to scam them by selling a fake luxury watch. The couple claim that the man allegedly bought the watch for 59,000 baht but offered it to them for just 6,000 baht. Fake time, real warning: Thai couple’s scam alert Photo via Facebook/ Supakorn Piriyesyangkoon Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325741-fake-time-real-warning-thai-couple’s-scam-alert-video/

Thai tourism sector proposes 300-baht tax to counter over-tourism by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Thai tourism operators are advocating for government regulations to address the rising issue of over-tourism in the country. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325707-thai-tourism-sector-proposes-300-baht-tax-to-counter-over-tourism/

Thai tourism operators are advocating for government regulations to address the rising issue of over-tourism in the country. They propose the implementation of a 300-baht tourism tax, which they believe could alleviate the problem. Their call for action comes in response to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s commitment to make 2025 a pivotal year for Thai tourism. The Federation of Thai Tourism Associations (FETTA) is set to present a white paper to the government outlining solutions to over-tourism, a significant issue in Thailand pre-pandemic. Secretary-General of FETTA, Adith Chairattananon, pointed out that major tourist destinations like Phuket, Samui, and Pattaya are on the brink of over-tourism, with a projected 40 million tourists. During peak season, these popular destinations suffer from traffic congestion and water shortages, with international airports running out of slots for airlines. Adith suggests a key strategy could be to divert tourists from these hubs to the country’s secondary cities. These cities offer numerous potential attractions and have adequate space to accommodate an influx of tourists. Adith also proposed incentives for airlines to operate direct flights to provincial airports, such as U-Tapao, Khon Kaen, and Krabi. Such a move would ease congestion at major airports, like Phuket Airport or Suvarnabhumi Airport, and stimulate regional business opportunities. Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) Vice-President Surawat Akaraworamat supports the idea of a 300-baht tourism fee. He believes it could fund tourism development as the plan and all related preparations have been finalised. Surawat suggests that the tax would not deter foreign tourists, as the fee is minimal compared to countries like Bhutan, which charges a tourist tax of over US$100 (approximately 3,700 baht) per night. The additional revenue could be used to develop infrastructure in second-tier provinces, attract tourists away from overcrowded locations, and enhance attractions that have deteriorated due to over-tourism, reported Bangkok Post. Surawat called for a trial phase of tourism tax collection through a mobile application or kiosks, mirroring the approach taken by many countries that collect taxes from tourists through flight tickets or hotel stays. by Alex Morgan Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-23 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Authorities struggle to control fire at chemical warehouse in Rayong by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ฝันดี - ฝันเด่น ใจถึงใจคนไทยไม่ทิ้งกัน A fire broke out at an industrial waste and chemical warehouse belonging to the Win Process Company in the eastern province of Rayong at 8.30am yesterday. The Thai authorities have been working for over 20 hours to extinguish the fire and are struggling to fully control it due to flammable chemical substances. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325706-authorities-struggle-to-control-fire-at-chemical-warehouse-in-rayong/

A fire broke out at an industrial waste and chemical warehouse belonging to the Win Process Company in the eastern province of Rayong at 8.30am yesterday. The Thai authorities have been working for over 20 hours to extinguish the fire and are struggling to fully control it due to flammable chemical substances. Residents living near the warehouse in the Ban Khai district of Rayong had to evacuate for their safety. The fire produced thick black plumes of smoke that covered the residential area and emitted chemical odours from various substances stored in the warehouse. The fire started in a Win Process company warehouse and then spread to another, causing multiple explosions. According to Thai PBS, firefighters found it challenging to put out the fire using water alone because of the chemicals present. They had to use a fire suppressant called aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) along with water to prevent the fire from spreading any further. Rayong province Deputy Governor Kanchai Thepworrachai told the Prachachart news platform that the Thai authorities were still unable to fully control the fire despite more than 20 hours of operation. However, they have managed to contain it within a limited area. Firefighters are still spraying water to prevent the fire from spreading any further. Kanchai anticipates that the situation will be under control by the end of today, and investigations into the cause of the fire will begin tomorrow. Kanchai added that the province plans to declare the affected area a disaster zone, including the Bangbuth and Nong Bua sub-districts. Locals in these two areas were evacuated to temporary shelters, while some chose to stay with their relatives. The Win Process company was involved in the separation and disposal of chemical and industrial waste. According to MGR Online, the company faced a lawsuit from 15 locals for health effects caused by its operations. The Rayong Provincial Court ordered the company to compensate the affected individuals with more than 20 million baht on December 13, 2022. The company operation was suspended, and the chemical substances in the warehouses were abandoned without proper management, leading to the fire. by Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ฝันดี - ฝันเด่น ใจถึงใจคนไทยไม่ทิ้งกัน Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-23 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Krabi smoothie shop owner accused of investment fraud by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Approximately 10 victims have reported a local smoothie shop owner in Krabi for investment fraud involving over 3 million baht. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325705-krabi-smoothie-shop-owner-accused-of-investment-fraud/

Approximately 10 victims have reported a local smoothie shop owner in Krabi for investment fraud involving over 3 million baht. The suspect, using her acquaintance with a well-known lawyer as leverage, challenged the victims to take legal action against her. Police are now gathering evidence to pursue the suspect legally. A group of around 10 individuals filed complaints yesterday at the Mueang Krabi Police Station against a 38 year old woman, the owner of a smoothie shop. They accused her of inviting them to join an investment scheme that has been running for almost a year, with contributions ranging from tens of thousands to millions of baht. When it was time for payouts, the investors found themselves without their due funds, leading to reported losses exceeding 3 million baht. The authorities have taken the complaints and are interviewing the victims and collecting evidence to track down the perpetrator. One of the victims, referred to as B, recounted that in June last year, Pim, a fellow villager known to her, reached out via Facebook with an investment opportunity. The scheme involved monthly contributions of 10,000 baht, with payouts scheduled for the 25th of each month. Trusting Pim, who had no prior record of default, B decided to participate, initially investing around 200,000 baht and later adding smaller amounts totalling over 300,000 baht. The group comprised 12 members, most of whom were acquaintances, who coordinated through a LINE chat group. At the start of this year, B’s turn for the payout came, but no money was forthcoming. When B and others confronted Pim, the scheme’s organiser, she evaded their inquiries, blaming delays on other members’ failures to make payments or citing other excuses. Pim reportedly became hostile when pressed further at her home and boasted of her connections to a prominent lawyer, suggesting they sue her if they wished, reported KhaoSod. After discussing with other members who had faced similar issues, B and the rest of the defrauded group decided to file a collective police report. The officer in charge, Chatchai, stated that the case appeared to be one of public fraud. The investigation is ongoing, and the police plan to summon Pim for questioning. Should she fail to respond, they will issue a summons and potentially seek an arrest warrant if necessary. by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-23 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Water truck to be stationed in Khao Takiab as Hua Hin battles ongoing drought By Online Reporter The water truck will be located at the police box in Khao Takiab, pictured here. Hua Hin Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul held a meeting on Monday (Apr 22) with local government officials to discuss immediate and long-term solutions for the severe drought affecting the Hua Hin, particularly impacting residents in Khao Takiab. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325703-water-truck-to-be-stationed-in-khao-takiab-as-hua-hin-battles-ongoing-drought/

The water truck will be located at the police box in Khao Takiab, pictured here. Hua Hin Mayor Nopporn Wutthikul held a meeting on Monday (Apr 22) with local government officials to discuss immediate and long-term solutions for the severe drought affecting the Hua Hin, particularly impacting residents in Khao Takiab. The meeting was attended by Deputy Mayor Atichat Chaisri, Municipal Council Chairman Udom Duangkae, Deputy Chairman Thongchai Petchsangkram, Council Member Cheep Suksri, Municipal Clerk Jeerawat Phramanee, and heads of relevant government departments. The discussions focused on the declining water levels at the Hua Na reservoir, which have significantly reduced the capacity for normal water production and distribution. The reservoir’s low levels have been unable to sustain adequate water pressure to reach all households through municipal pipelines. By Online Reporter Picture: The water truck will be located at the police box in Khao Takiab, pictured here. Full story: HUA HIN TODAY 2024-04-23 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE: Motorbike and minivan collision injures three in Pattaya by Top Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News A collision between a motorbike and a minivan in Pattaya led to injuries for three people, including two young women and a blind individual. The incident occurred in the early hours of yesterday, April 22, at 2.36am, near Pattaya School 7 on the inbound lane heading towards Sattahip. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325676-motorbike-accident-while-volunteering-to-drive-blind-person-home/?do=findComment&comment=18863572

Motorbike and minivan collision injures three in Pattaya by Top Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News A collision between a motorbike and a minivan in Pattaya led to injuries for three people, including two young women and a blind individual. The incident occurred in the early hours of yesterday, April 22, at 2.36am, near Pattaya School 7 on the inbound lane heading towards Sattahip. The motorbike, a Honda Scoopy I model, was ridden by 18 year old Chalin Konrad who reported minor abrasions following the accident. Her passengers, Chanyanuch Thanusorn, a 48 year old blind woman, and a 17 year old girl who cannot be named due to her age, suffered more severe injuries. Thanusorn sustained a significant head wound while the 17 year old girl experienced abrasions similar to those of Konrad. The two younger females were known to be friends. Emergency workers arrived promptly at the scene, delivering immediate first aid before transferring the injured parties to a nearby medical facility. Meanwhile, the 50 year old minivan driver, Woraphong Lueangektrakul, remained uninjured despite some damage to the left side of his vehicle. Police investigation Lueangektrakul stayed at the scene, fully cooperating with Pattaya police during their initial investigations. Konrad shared with the authorities that she and her friend were travelling to Jomtien when they noticed Thanusorn, the blind woman, walking by the roadside. Wishing to assist, they offered Thanusorn a lift to Jomtien. As they were crossing an intersection, with the traffic light in their favour, their motorbike was hit by the allegedly speeding van. However, Lueangektrakul had a different account. He claimed he was driving at a regular speed along Sukhumvit Road when the motorcycle suddenly crossed the intersection directly in his path. Despite his efforts to swerve away, he was unable to avoid the collision entirely. He expressed relief that the accident did not result in any life-threatening injuries. Konrad insisted they were just trying to help someone in need. “We didn’t expect this to happen. It all happened so fast.” Lueangektrakul also shared his thoughts on the incident. “It was an unfortunate accident. I tried to swerve, but it was too late. I’m thankful it wasn’t worse.” Pattaya police have since launched a full investigation into the accident. They are currently examining CCTV footage from the area to establish an accurate series of events and to determine the true cause of the collision. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for road safety and the potential dangers that can arise even in the act of a good deed. Source: The Thaiger 2024-04-23 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Air Asia to launch daily flights between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai until August 31 By Online Reporter File photo. Air Asia has announced an expansion of its flights between Hua Hin and Chiang Mai. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325700-air-asia-to-launch-daily-flights-between-hua-hin-and-chiang-mai-until-august-31/