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Thai Man on the Run After Terrorizing Chumphon Residents Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing A 56-year-old Thai man known as Somchai is on the run after his series of violent incidents left residents of Chumphon in fear. Police attempted to arrest him at his home but found he had fled, leaving behind 194 rounds of .22 calibre ammunition. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325967-thai-man-on-the-run-after-terrorizing-chumphon-residents/

A 56-year-old Thai man known as Somchai is on the run after his series of violent incidents left residents of Chumphon in fear. Police attempted to arrest him at his home but found he had fled, leaving behind 194 rounds of .22 calibre ammunition. A warrant for Somchai's arrest was issued on April 18 following numerous threats to kill locals and officials. His violent tendencies came to a climax when he blocked a road and pointed a shotgun at 30-year-old Chayapha during a disagreement. Although a shot was fired, no one was hurt. The community believes Somchai's hostility may be related to an unresolved property dispute. Montri, a relative, narrated that despite no personal friction between them, Somchai had threatened to shoot his family. He suggested that the conflict might be triggered by modifications Somchai made to the inherited property against agreed-upon terms. Locals have been holding back from reporting Somchai's threats due to his previous cycles of arrest and release. The threat level escalated to a point where residents fear leaving their homes. Somchai has also threatened local leaders, instigating concern amongst officials. Somchai's violent behavior, some attribute to his untreated bipolar disorder — includes damaging an official's car and attacking a police checkpoint with a machete. Notably, he was seen heavily armed and has even installed CCTV cameras to evade the police. The local community and authorities are calling for Somchai to surrender and face his charges in court. Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

British Woman Allegedly Assaulted by Bangkok Condo Guard A British woman and her Thai spouse are seeking justice following an allegation of assault in their Bangkok condominium. The woman claims her confrontation with a security guard resulted in significant mental health issues. However, CCTV footage suggests she initiated the physical exchange. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325961-british-woman-allegedly-assaulted-by-bangkok-condo-guard/

A British woman and her Thai spouse are seeking justice following an allegation of assault in their Bangkok condominium. The woman claims her confrontation with a security guard resulted in significant mental health issues. However, CCTV footage suggests she initiated the physical exchange. Boon-ek Wongsuriyawattana, the Thai husband, and his British wife, Ayesa, recently sought help from the Foundation Campaigning to Reclaim Social Justice (CRSJ). The couple alleges the 27-year-old security guard, Mohammad Ayan, physically assaulted Ayesa in their Chong Nonsi luxury condominium in the early morning of December 12, 2021. After the incident, they left the condo due to Ayesa's deteriorating mental state. Boon-ek recounts that his wife woke the sleeping security guard to ask about his whereabouts. After a brief argument, she turned to leave, and the guard reportedly punched her, resulting in facial fractures and bruising. Reports say the assault caused Ayesa to develop depression and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, leading her to isolate herself and refuse medical treatment, which worsened her injuries. The couple has recently filed a complaint at Bang Pong Pang Police Station, resulting in an arrest warrant for Mohammad. However, he has not yet been apprehended. They also revealed that Mohammad's security license was fake and that his employers have not cooperated with the investigation. The CRSJ Foundation has pledged to help the couple. Nevertheless, a CCTV clip on social media appears to show Ayesa initiating the attack before Mohammad retaliated. The public reaction suggests the guard should have remained calm rather than fighting back. The security company and Mohammad himself have not offered any further clarification. -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Rise in Malaria Cases Spurs Action in Thailand Picture: Jim Gathany. Creative Commons License via Google Thailand's Tak province is seeing a surge in malaria cases according to the Department of Disease Control (DDC). Since January, 2,913 infections have been identified, largely among foreign residents accounting for 60% of the cases. Other regions affected include Mae Hong Son, Kanchana Buri, Ranong and Prachuap Khiri Khan. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325958-rise-in-malaria-cases-spurs-action-in-thailand/

Thailand's Tak province is seeing a surge in malaria cases according to the Department of Disease Control (DDC). Since January, 2,913 infections have been identified, largely among foreign residents accounting for 60% of the cases. Other regions affected include Mae Hong Son, Kanchana Buri, Ranong and Prachuap Khiri Khan. DDC Chief, Thongchai Keeratihuttayakorn, confirmed a comprehensive strategy is underway to handle the increase, especially in the border provinces. Health officials are now on high alert to ensure early detection and prompt treatment to prevent further spread. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported 249 million malaria cases across 85 countries in 2022, causing 608,000 deaths. Accordingly, Thailand is striving to enhance its plan to eliminate malaria from 2017 to 2026, in cooperation with the WHO, USAID and the Asia Pacific Leaders Malaria Alliance. Currently, 49 provinces in Thailand are malaria-free. During the World Malaria Day on April 25, USAID Mission Director Steve G Olive praised Thailand's real-time monitoring of malaria, crucial for quick detection and intervention. DDC's preventive plan, called 1-3-7, aims to issue a warning within one day of identifying a case, trace the source in three days, and launch preventive measures within seven days. Marsh mosquitoes, found in mountain forests, rubber plantations and near natural water sources, have been identified as the carriers of malaria. People, especially tourists lodging in mountain forests, are advised to protect themselves from mosquito bites between dusk and dawn. Those experiencing symptoms like fever, headache and chills must seek immediate medical attention and monitor the symptoms for 10 to 14 days. Picture: Jim Gathany. Creative Commons License via Google -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Executive Arrested for Drunk Driving and Attacking Police in Bangkok Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing A senior company executive in Bangkok has been arrested for drunk driving and assaulting a police officer. The incident took place early Tuesday at a sobriety checkpoint in the Suan Luang district. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325957-executive-arrested-for-drunk-driving-and-attacking-police-in-bangkok/

A senior company executive in Bangkok has been arrested for drunk driving and assaulting a police officer. The incident took place early Tuesday at a sobriety checkpoint in the Suan Luang district. According to police, the unnamed executive drove a black Mercedes-Benz and had a blood alcohol content of 104 milligrammes, exceeding the legal limit. When approached by officers for arrest, she verbally abused them, filmed the incident, and kicked a deputy inspector in the face. Despite her resistance, the police reportedly managed to apprehend her. The officer suffered minor injuries from her attack. This arrest isn't the executive's first run-in with law enforcement for impaired driving, as she faced similar charges in 2022. After her arrest, she confessed to drunk driving but denied obstructing the officers. The Suan Luang Police Station is currently collecting evidence to verify the additional charges she denies. Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

UN Report Warns Of Asia's Increasing Climate Crisis Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing A recent report from the United Nations reveals that Asia, identified as the world's disaster centre, is significantly affected by climate-related disruptions like floods, storms, extreme temperatures, and melting glaciers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325955-un-report-warns-of-asias-increasing-climate-crisis/

Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing A recent report from the United Nations reveals that Asia, identified as the world's disaster centre, is significantly affected by climate-related disruptions like floods, storms, extreme temperatures, and melting glaciers. The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) concludes that Asia, warming at an alarming rate, is the most affected region in the unfolding climate crisis, with forecasts predicting an increase in catastrophic events. WMO Chief Celeste Saulo warns that "the report's conclusions are sobering." The impacts of these climate changes, ranging from record-breaking heatwaves to consistent heavy rains, have severe effects on human lives, economies, and ecosystems. The 'State of the Climate in Asia 2023' report highlights worsening climate indicators and their grim outcomes. Asia continues to bear the brunt of these weather-related disasters, with floods and storms causing considerable loss of life and livelihoods. From the vanishing glaciers to the rising sea levels, and heatwaves encompassing areas from Siberia to Japan, Asia is teetering on the brink of a climate catastrophe. Floods have decimated communities and storms caused extensive destruction, resulting in the loss of over 2000 lives and displacing millions, according to TRT World. However, the WMO urges immediate action on reducing emissions and adapting to the climate changes. In a related development, northern Thailand anticipates a severe heatwave, with temperatures predicted to break previous records, reaching up to 44 degrees Celsius. The intense heatwave is due to a low-pressure area covering northern Thailand. Concurrently, the Ministry of Public Health highlighted the dangers of heatwaves after identifying 30 heatstroke-related deaths this year. -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Karaoke Owner Arrested for Alleged Child Trafficking in Thailand Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing The owner of a karaoke bar in Thailand's Bueng Kan Province has been arrested on charges of child trafficking, following a successful police sting operation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325953-karaoke-owner-arrested-for-alleged-child-trafficking-in-thailand/

Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing The owner of a karaoke bar in Thailand's Bueng Kan Province has been arrested on charges of child trafficking, following a successful police sting operation. The alleged trafficker, a 63-year-old woman named Rombai, stands accused of forcing underage girls from Thailand and Laos into sex work. Authorities from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), led by Police Major General Sarawut Jantawong, orchestrated the bust after receiving a tip-off about minor girls being sold for sex. The girls, some as young as under 15, were being offered to customers for amounts between 3,000 to 3,500 baht, with the bar making a 300 baht commission per transaction. Rombai refuted claims of being aware of the girls' ages, but her statement was met with suspicion as one of the young victims turned out to be a relative - her husband's niece. Following the operation, Rombai was taken into custody and is facing charges of child trafficking and exploitation. As the investigation progresses, law enforcement agencies are focusing on demolishing any associated illegal operations dealing in child exploitation. In a related case, local authorities in Phuket arrested a 39-year-old karaoke bar owner after evidence of minor exploitation was unearthed. A thirteen-year-old girl was found among those being offered for sexual services, with the owner admitting to knowingly participating in the illegal trade. Both cases highlight the prevailing issue of human trafficking and child exploitation in the region. Authorities are urging the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities, thus aiding in the safeguarding of vulnerable groups. -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

NATIONAL NEWS from Surf 102.5 FM - Friday 26 April 2024 Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325952-national-news-from-surf-1025-fm-friday-26-april-2024/

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has ordered an inspection of all chemical warehouses nationwide following a series of fires reported over the last few couple weeks. His announcement came just after another fire was reported at a warehouse on the outskirts of Bangkok. the government will produce a plan to reduce further chemical leaks. Health authorities say there's been a sharp rise in the number of malaria infections with almost 3,000 cases reported so far this year, more than half were found in Tak province on the border with Myanmar. 174 cases have been reported in Prachuab khirikhan, 49 provinces remain free of Malaria. The Australian and New Zealand embassies yesterday hosted an Anzac Day commemorative service at Hellfire Pass, on the thai burmese border in Kanchanaburi. More than 1,000 attended the service including families of fallen soldiers, to commemorate the those who served in the armed forces. Around the region North Korean leader Kim Jong Un yesterday inspected the test-firing of 240 mm multiple launch rockets manufactured by a newly established defence industry unit. North Korea is believed to be ramping up production of artillery amid allegations by the United States and South Korea that it is supplying Russia with weapons. Malaysia’s anti corruption commission says Former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad is among several people being investigated for corruption involving his sons, 98-year-old Mahathir, is a long-time foe of current Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim., Anwar has denied targeting political rivals, saying the investigations are part of the government's efforts to tackle high-level corruption. WEATHER Chiang Mai and the north: sunny, 41 C Bangkok: Sunny 37C Pattaya: Sunny 35C Phuket and the south: cloudy with showers this morning clearing up this afternoon 33C Hua Hin: Sunny, light clouds this afternoon 36 C AQI green to Yellow, good to moderate Green clear, yellow moderate, Orange High, Red unhealthy. Credits: Bangkok Post, The Nation, Asean Now, Khaosod English, Hua Hin Today, Royal Coast Review, Kulsawek Sawekwannakorn, Thainewsroom.com, The Pattaya News, Phuket News, Channel News Asia, South China Morning Post, The Straits Times. The Irrawaddy. Windy.com. Wunderground.com -- SURF 102.5 FM 2024-04-26 Listen Live: Surf 102.5 Facebook: Surf 102.5 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Two Syrians Arrested for Fake UAE Passports in Phuket Fake passport. Picture: Creative Commons License via Google Two Syrian men were detained on last Wednesday in Phuket after being identified with counterfeit UAE passports. These arrests are considered similar to the previous apprehension of another Syrian man practiced on the preceding Sunday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325951-two-syrians-arrested-for-fake-uae-passports-in-phuket/

Two Syrian men were detained on last Wednesday in Phuket after being identified with counterfeit UAE passports. These arrests are considered similar to the previous apprehension of another Syrian man practiced on the preceding Sunday. According to the reports from Phuket Immigration officers to the Phuket Express, the two prisoners followed the same pattern of activity as the first offender. The suspects journeyed from Songkhla before accommodating themselves at a hotel in Patong. Following the arrest of the first Syrian on Monday, they prematurely exited the hotel, making officers suspect a potential escape attempt. However, the law enforcement authorities apprehended these two individuals at a second hotel in Patong. They were henceforth moved to the Patong Police Station on charges concerning the possession of illegitimate UAE passports. While the investigation is ongoing, the identities of the apprehended men have not been revealed to the Thai media. Fake passport. Picture: Creative Commons License via Google -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thailand Eradicates 22 Tonnes of Confiscated Illicit Drugs Picture: Creative Commons License via Google On April 24, 2024, Thailand's Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) spearheaded an operation to destroy a gigantic 22-tonne haul of illegal drugs, seized from 68 different cases, said Pol. Lt. Gen. Panurat Lakboon, ONCB's Secretary-General. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325950-thailand-eradicates-22-tonnes-of-confiscated-illicit-drugs/

On April 24, 2024, Thailand's Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) spearheaded an operation to destroy a gigantic 22-tonne haul of illegal drugs, seized from 68 different cases, said Pol. Lt. Gen. Panurat Lakboon, ONCB's Secretary-General. The cache of illicit drugs, valued at several million dollars, was predominantly composed of amphetamine (17,806.87 kilograms) and methamphetamine (2,871.77 kilograms). Additionally, it had 1,371.42 kilograms of ketamine and 41.16 kilograms of heroin. To obliterate the seized drugs, the ONCB employed a hazardous waste incinerator exceeding temperatures of 1,200 degrees Celsius, fueled by natural gas. The high-temperature incineration method ensured the complete destruction of the drugs while minimizing the environmental impact, stated the Thai national media. The location for this operation was in Samut Prakan, where ONCB officers and police escorts previously oversaw the transportation of these drugs 24/7, keeping them under tight security. Post-incineration, the officers scrutinize the remains for legal processing requirements. As per the Secretary-General of the ONCB, this episode marks the third major drug incineration operation in a year's span, totalling to an impressive 387 tonnes of illicit substances destroyed, all under the purview of transparent and monitorable procedures. Picture: Creative Commons License via Google -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Dangerous Hand Grenade Uncovered in Chonburi District Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing A live M26 hand grenade was discovered on the quiet streets of Wat Boon Samphan, Bang Lamung, Chonburi, sending shockwaves through the local community. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325949-dangerous-hand-grenade-uncovered-in-chonburi-district/

A live M26 hand grenade was discovered on the quiet streets of Wat Boon Samphan, Bang Lamung, Chonburi, sending shockwaves through the local community. The shocking find was made by a 73-year-old security guard, Pratum Chomsuwat, who found the lethal weapon while trimming grass near a small concrete house. The grenade was surprisingly tucked inside a simple cleaning cloth. Next to it was a black aluminium box which contained two 9mm gun bullets, raising concerns about a potential evil intention. Local police swiftly cordoned off the area within a 200-meter radius and called on the aid of Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) specialists to handle the threat. The EOD unit confirmed that the grenade was active and designed for fragmentation warfare, intensifying concerns about its presence in such a peaceful location. Initial investigations by the police suggest that the grenade was intentionally hidden, but how and by whom remain a mystery. The evidence has been handed over to the officials at Nong Prue Police Station for further examination. Current investigations are reportedly weighing the involvement of local youth but are still considering all possible angles. This harrowing event has revealed a disturbing underbelly beneath the calm façade of the community, sparking a rigorous inquiry into the dangerous discovery. Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

High-Speed Police Chase Leads to Fatal Accident, Fuels Debate Picture: Creative Commons License via Google A high-speed pursuit by the police in Nakhon Ratchasima resulted in a tragic accident on the night of April 23. The officers from Chaloem Phra Kiat Police Station were chasing a theft suspect when his motorcycle collided with a tree. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325948-high-speed-police-chase-leads-to-fatal-accident-fuels-debate/

A high-speed pursuit by the police in Nakhon Ratchasima resulted in a tragic accident on the night of April 23. The officers from Chaloem Phra Kiat Police Station were chasing a theft suspect when his motorcycle collided with a tree. The passenger, reported to be the suspect's girlfriend, died instantly, while the suspect succumbed to his injuries the following day. The police chase started behind a school in Ban Song Kuru Prachasan and continued along the Tha Chang-Nong Hua Raet road. The fatal crash occurred when the police vehicle encountered the motorcycle during an attempt to overtake it. The deaths have raised questions over police chase protocols, leading to a formal investigation. Police Colonel Bandit Chatuwat, from the Chaloem Phra Kiat Police Station, stated that the case is being treated as a traffic accident. Investigators are currently gathering evidence where CCTV footage is limited. Forensic Science Centre 3 officials are expected to inspect the crash site and involved vehicles. Though the victims' families are yet to make statements, the investigation is believed to conclude within a week. Superintendent of Johor Police Station, Police Colonel Natheer Sukhunya, highlighted the jurisdiction of Chaloem Phra Kiat Police Station over this investigation due to the accident's location. He confirmed that the officers involved have provided their accounts. Despite the tragic event, the theft case prompting the chase continues under separate investigation by Johor Police Station, expediting a report for higher authorities. The accidental deaths have prompted an inquiry into police conduct during high-speed pursuits, highlighting a need for careful scrutiny of the gathered evidence and a detailed understanding of the fatal incident's circumstances. Picture: Creative Commons License via Google -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Pattaya City Invests 30 Million Baht in Mobile Toilet Trucks for Tourism Boost Picture: Creative Commons License via Google Pattaya City has spent 30 million baht on six new mobile toilet trucks to facilitate tourists, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities during events. Deputy Mayor Manoch Nongyai announced the acquisition of the new vehicles on April 25, 2024. Full. story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325946-pattaya-city-invests-30-million-baht-in-mobile-toilet-trucks-for-tourism-boost/

Pattaya City has spent 30 million baht on six new mobile toilet trucks to facilitate tourists, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities during events. Deputy Mayor Manoch Nongyai announced the acquisition of the new vehicles on April 25, 2024. This will augment the existing fleet of three older toilet trucks, which due to their large size and age, were becoming inadequate to accommodate the rising number of tourists, particularly during large events. The new toilet trucks are compact, making them flexible for utilization in tight spaces. They include units specifically designed for elderly and disabled people, featuring hydraulic lifts. Two of the six vehicles offer over six restrooms for both genders. The remaining four feature standard units with two bathroooms each. Initially, the three trucks available will be stationed at Walking Street, near the Pattaya City water pump station, and Central Beach when there are no events. Manoch expects the remaining three trucks to be available by May 2024. He believes this initiative will greatly enhance restroom accessibility for tourists and residents on Jomtien and Pattaya beaches. Picture: Creative Commons License via Google -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Private Talks Between Thaksin, Srettha Fuel Cabinet Reshuffle Speculation Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing Thaksin Shinawatra, de facto Pheu Thai boss and convict on parole, had a private meeting with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. The meeting, suspected to discuss a cabinet reshuffle, was conducted at a high-end Sukhumvit Road hotel in Bangkok. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325945-private-talks-between-thaksin-srettha-fuel-cabinet-reshuffle-speculation/