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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/

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. Thaksin, known to have the final say over these changes, previously supported the rise to power of Srettha, a real-estate tycoon turned Prime Minister. Srettha, who also holds the finance portfolio, is predicted to resign this role in favor of Pichai Chunhavajira, former chair of the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Speculation points to Srettha taking over the defense portfolio from Defense Minister Suthin Khlangsang. Possible additions to the cabinet may include Nattapon Nakpanich, a former deputy army chief and pupil of former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha. Other anticipated members are Paopoom Rojanasaku as deputy finance minister, Jiraporn Sindhuprai as deputy commerce minister, and Pichit Chuenbarn as a minister in the Prime Minister's Office. Current members that may be out in this reshuffle include Public Health Minister Chonlanan Srikaew, Deputy Agriculture & Cooperatives Minister Chaiya Promma, and Prime Minister’s Office Minister Puangpetch Choonla-iad. The third and fourth largest coalition partners, Palang Pracharath and Ruam Thai Sang Chart respectively, are anticipated to change some ministers. Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

US Navy's Carrier Strike Group Visits Thailand before West Pacific Operations Picture: Creative Commons License via Google The United States Navy's Carrier Strike Group 9, led by the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71), is currently docked at Thailand's Laem Chabang port in Chonburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325943-us-navys-carrier-strike-group-visits-thailand-before-west-pacific-operations /

The United States Navy's Carrier Strike Group 9, led by the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71), is currently docked at Thailand's Laem Chabang port in Chonburi. The naval group will remain there until the end of the month before proceeding to naval exercises in the West Pacific region. Crewmembers are currently on a one-week shore leave, primarily in the Pattaya area and as far as Bangkok. The anchorage location is about 25 kilometers north of Pattaya, a notable shift from previous decades when US naval ships would anchor off Pattaya. In addition to the USS Theodore Roosevelt, the Carrier Strike Group includes four US navy destroyers: the USS Russell (DDG-59), USS Howard (DDG-83), USS Halsey (DDG-97), and USS Daniel Inouye (DDG-118). The aircraft on board include Lockheed Martin’s F-35C Lightning II fighters and Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet jets. The exact location for the Carrier Strike Group's West Pacific exercises remains confidential. It is speculated they may occur near the South China Sea, an area marked by naval tensions and a frequent site of Chinese naval and coast guard presence. Picture: Creative Commons License via Google -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Toxic Smoke Engulfs Bangkok's Rama 2 Area Due to Chemical Leak Picture: Creative Commons License via Google The early hours of August 25 saw clouds of toxic smoke emanating from a chemical leak at a factory in Bangkok’s Rama 2 area. The local disaster prevention and mitigation department, along with firefighters, rushed to halt the leakage that began around 2:10 a.m. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325942-toxic-smoke-engulfs-bangkoks-rama-2-area-due-to-chemical-leak/

The early hours of August 25 saw clouds of toxic smoke emanating from a chemical leak at a factory in Bangkok’s Rama 2 area. The local disaster prevention and mitigation department, along with firefighters, rushed to halt the leakage that began around 2:10 a.m. White smoke was seen pouring from the chemical warehouse of the factory. The response team promptly evacuated twelve smoke-releasing tanks and hosed them down with water. The tanks were found to contain Thiourea or Thiocarbamate, chemicals commonly used to boost seed germination and promote flowering in agriculture. The incident is currently under investigation by the Bangmod police station. Separately, Pimpatra Wichaikul, the Thailand Industry Minister, is suspecting a potential link between this incident and a fire on April 22 at Win Process Co.’s chemical warehouses in Rayong. She highlighted an additional instance of a fire at a recycling plant in Ratchaburi on April 4. Wichaikul has requested the ministry's permanent secretary and the head of the Industrial Works Department to explore these incidents immediately. Whilst the sequence of fires appears suspicious, Wichaikul recommends awaiting formal police investigation for conclusive results. She confirmed that she will personally visit the affected regions to examine air quality, scrutinise any residual effects, evaluate potential human impacts, and check whether the local canals have been polluted. Picture: Creative Commons License via Google -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Krabi Faces Water Shortage, Phi Phi Islands Sans Tap Water Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing A severe freshwater crisis has hit Thailand's southern province of Krabi, leaving Phi Phi Islands without tap water. In several other regions, residents receive tap water only on alternate days. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325941-krabi-faces-water-shortage-phi-phi-islands-sans-tap-water/

A severe freshwater crisis has hit Thailand's southern province of Krabi, leaving Phi Phi Islands without tap water. In several other regions, residents receive tap water only on alternate days. The escalating crisis resulted in the suspension of water services by Waterhill Company, which operates a reservoir on Phi Phi islands, as raw water levels reach critically low. Despite efforts from the Royal Rainmaking Unit at Krabi Airport, which commenced twice-daily cloud seeding operations on Tuesday, April 23, the targeted areas have seen no rainfall. Furthermore, even Mueang Krabi, a major urban area, is not spared, with the Provincial Waterworks Authority stating that there's an insufficient raw water supply for tap water production. Phi Phi island's reservoir, which has been dry for three days, spans five rai, while the Royal Irrigation Department's reservoir, supervised by the subdistrict administration organisation, covers three rai and is also in a similar condition. Consequently, residents and small businesses without their water sources have to purchase water at escalated prices of 150-200 per cubic metre. Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Big Joke demands top job at Royal Thai Police HQ Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing General Surachate Hakparn, popularly known as 'Big Joke', made his return to the Royal Thai Police headquarters this Thursday. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325939-big-joke-demands-top-job-at-royal-thai-police-hq/

General Surachate Hakparn, popularly known as 'Big Joke', made his return to the Royal Thai Police headquarters this Thursday. The former top police officer pledged to take legal actions against what he strongly believes is an internal conspiracy aimed at thwarting his chances of becoming Commissioner. Recently removed from his position, 'Big Joke' voiced grave criticism on the current acting National Police Commissioner, General Kittirat Phanphet. He singled out the acting chief for particular scrutiny, stating that his dismissal process was legally flawed and argued it was based on an outdated procedure. Surachate argued his displacement was executed based on an obsolete method, which was superseded by the updated Thailand 2022 Police Act. The assertion insinuates that his removal may have been unceremonious and potentially unlawful. Despite the challenges, Surachate remained steadfast in his belief that he is the most suited for the role of the National Police Commissioner. He reiterated his aspiration to assume the position in October. Asserting he was the best fit for the National Police Commissioner role, he subtly criticized the acting Police Commissioner, General Kittirat Phanphet. Hakparn spoke out against a group within the police force he described as a 'cabal,' which he believes is trying to thwart his advancement. He promised to initiate legal action against them. He contended that the method used for his removal a week prior was ill-conceived and based on an obsolete process replaced by the 2022 Police Act. After retracting a complaint against the Prime Minister two days prior, Hakparn made a resolute comeback. When addressing reporters, he affirmed his position as a deputy police chief, arguing that his dismissal hasn't been officially confirmed with a royal decree. Picture: Creative Commons License via Bing -- 2024-04-26 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

to continue: Thailand Live Friday 26 April 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1325938-thailand-live-friday-26-april-2024/

New Zealand brothers still under Phuket custody, waiting for a trial date Creative Commons License via Google Two brothers from New Zealand, Hamish and Oscar Day, aged 34 and 36 respectively, remain in custody in Phuket, following a conflict with a local police officer in March. Their charges include robbery, assault of an officer, attempted bribery, and unlicensed motorbike riding. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325905-new-zealand-brothers-still-under-phuket-custody-waiting-for-a-trial-date/

The Federation of Thai Tourism Associations has issued a warning to the Thai government alerting that the level of tourism has reached a critical point. According to forecasts, the number of foreign visitors in 2024 will be about 40 million, similar to the last pre-COVID year, 2019. This could strain both local environments and tourist experience. Officials Concerned Over Potential Overcrowding in Pattaya and Phuket Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1325908-officials-concerned-over-potential-overcrowding-in-pattaya-and-phuket/ Picture: Creative Commons License via Google

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/