Mitch Connor
- Thailand News
Thai healthcare tycoon Boon Vanasin flees as fraud charges mount
Boon Vanasin, the founder of Thonburi Healthcare Group (THG), is currently at large in China while his wife and daughter have surrendered to the police in Thailand. Faced with charges of public fraud, 79 year old Jaruwan Vanasin, and her daughter, 51 year old Nalin, turned themselves in to the police and have denied all allegations against them. The two…
- Thailand News
Tourism and gambling: The influence of Thai and Australian casinos on global travel
Tourism plays a major role in countries like Thailand and Australia. Admittedly, it’s more significant for the former, but the latter has been able to benefit in the past from the amount of foreign travel to the country that has been experienced. According to a report by Reuters, Thailand broke its record for tourism numbers and revenues in 2019. That…
- Thailand News
Gambling software in Thailand: Exploring innovation and opportunity
Thailand’s gambling landscape is one of contrasts. On the one hand, gambling is strictly prohibited under Thai law, with exceptions made only for the national lottery and certain horse racing events. On the other hand, gambling is widespread, particularly in underground black-market venues. Many Thais continue to place bets illegally in person, often in makeshift casinos or through informal networks.…
- Thailand News
5 surprising ways Internet of Behaviour impacts daily life and choices of Thais
It’s strange, almost unsettling, how an online ad seems to read your mind. It knows you’ve been eyeing those Onitsuka Tiger sneakers, popular among Bangkok’s fashionistas, even though you’ve barely mentioned it. That, right there, is the IoB at work—the Internet of Behaviours. Picture IoT (Internet of Things), but more invasive. While the IoT connects physical gadgets, like smart lights…
- Thailand News
People’s Party challenges congestion fees, urges investment in public transport
The People’s Party (PP) is challenging the government’s proposal to introduce traffic congestion fees, advocating instead for the development of a comprehensive public transport network to alleviate urban crowding. Surachet Praweewongwut, a list-MP for PP, argued that while congestion charges might help ease traffic, the current feeder system is insufficient to persuade people to switch from private cars to public…
- Environment News
Mekong River dams threaten Thailand’s environment and economy, warns NHRC
Transboundary hydropower dam projects along the Mekong River could jeopardise Thailand’s environment, economy, and community welfare, according to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). In a letter addressed to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on October 3, the NHRC highlighted its concerns about four hydropower dam projects: Ban Koum Dam, Sanakham Dam, Phou Ngoy Dam, and Pak Chom Dam, all situated…
- Thailand News
Thai nationals unscathed in Israeli attack on Tehran, says ministry
Thai nationals remain unaffected by the recent Israeli attack in Tehran, as confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today. Nikorndej Balankura, the ministry’s spokesman, reported that the Thai Embassy in Tehran has been in constant communication with the ministry. According to the Thai Association in Iran, no Thai nationals were impacted by the attack. Balankura noted that Iran’s air…
- Thailand News
Call for Thai government to aid 110 trafficked victims in Myanmar
A call for government intervention has risen, urging the officials to assist 110 victims of human trafficking who were deceived and transported through Thailand to engage in illegal work in Myanmar. The Network for Victim Assistance in Human Trafficking addressed an open letter to Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, highlighting the plight of the victims. These individuals, hailing from nine countries,…
- Tourism News
Take a trip to Thailand this Christmas
The holidays are fast approaching and Thailand is set to boom once again this festive season. Traditionally, one of the busiest times of the year for tourism in Thailand, recovery from Covid has been quite slow. For many people, especially those in colder climates, that means finding a vacation destination to relax, unwind and stay warm. Why not consider a…
- Bangkok News
BEM takes legal action against escalator stunt at Bangkok metro
Bangkok Expressway and Metro (BEM) has taken legal action against an individual for his alleged reckless behaviour, as captured in a viral video showing him sliding down an escalator handrail at a metro station in Bangkok. A Facebook user known as Nut Freerunning posted the video on October 22, tagging it with “Slider+MRT+freerunning.” The footage depicted the man running through…
- Thailand News
Second phase of Khon Kaen to Nong Khai railway starts this year
Construction for the second phase of the double-track railway from Khon Kaen to Nong Khai will commence at the end of this year, with an estimated budget of 28.6 billion baht. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) Governor, Veeris Ammarapala, confirmed that the project is expected to take approximately three years to complete. The SRT board, in a meeting yesterday,…
- Phuket News
Phuket police to fast-track testimonies in The iCon Group case
Phuket Provincial Police Commander Police Major General Sinlert Sukhum has directed all police stations on the island to fast-track the summary of testimonies in the case involving The iCon Group and submit them to Phuket Provincial Police. The directive was issued during a meeting held at the Phuket Provincial Police headquarters, which saw the attendance of superintendents from all local…
- South Thailand News
Insurgent threats in deep South as Tak Bai massacre case passes
Security measures have been increased in Thailand’s deep South amidst intelligence reports suggesting insurgent groups are planning to instigate violence from today, October 26, until October 28, following the expiration of the statute of limitations for the Tak Bai massacre case. Reports indicate that these groups aim to incite violence across four provinces to mark the 20th anniversary of the…
- Thailand News
Thailand raises retirement age to 65 for all sectors
Thailand’s Labour Ministry is set to extend the retirement age for both private and government sectors to 65 years, aligning it with countries like Singapore and Switzerland, announced Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. Phiphat stated that the decision to increase the retirement age is influenced by significant advancements in health and medical technology, which have improved life expectancy. Additionally, the ministry plans to…
- Pattaya News
Architectural visionary Mario Kleff unveils new luxury villas in Pattaya
Mario Kleff, a celebrated figure in Pattaya’s architectural scene, has made a striking comeback with his latest project, Bamboo Luxury Villa. This exclusive development, set on over 4.5 rai of land in the tranquil suburb of Huai Yai, showcases Kleff’s distinctive approach to modern architecture, blending bold design with functionality and sustainability. Best known for his groundbreaking contributions to Pattaya’s…
- Cannabis
What are CBD gummies and should I take them?
CBD gummies are gaining popularity worldwide for their potential health benefits, and Thailand is no exception. In recent years, CBD products have been introduced and marketed within Thailand, as people become more interested in natural wellness options. With the Thai government’s efforts to promote medical cannabis and CBD use, CBD gummies are now an accessible and intriguing choice for many…
- Thailand News
Flash flood hits Ban Rai, Uthai Thani, stranding tourists and campers
A night of heavy rain led to a flash flood that caught tourists and campers off guard in Ban Rai district, Uthai Thani, yesterday, October 19. The central plain province was one of five affected by the flooding yesterday. The flash flood struck the mountainous region of Ban Rai around 8pm, just hours after the downpour began. The water levels…
- Business News
5 tips for a professional headshot
A professional headshot is more than just a photo – it’s an important tool for making a strong impression in the digital world. But if you’ve never had a professional headshot taken, the thought of getting one might intimidate you a little bit. Here are five tips to help you capture a headshot that shows you in your best light…
- Chiang Mai News
Two elephants drown amid severe flooding in Chiang Mai park
Two elephants tragically drowned following severe flooding at Chiang Mai’s Elephant Nature Park in the Mae Taeng district. As efforts intensify to rescue animals stranded by rising waters, the park’s 126 elephants face unprecedented challenges. The park confirmed the deaths of two elephants, swept away by the floodwaters. Phang Fah Sai, a female elephant, was discovered near the Sibsan resort…
- Thailand News
Thailand targets inflated mud removal fees in flood-hit areas
Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan has directed Thailand’s Department of Internal Trade (DIT) to initiate legal actions against backhoe operators in flood-affected provinces for inflating mud removal fees. Following visits to Chiang Rai and Chiang Mai over the weekend to assess the flood damage and expedite recovery efforts, Pichai received complaints about backhoe operators charging exorbitant fees for mud removals from…
- Thailand News
Anti-drunk driving group urges no alcohol spending of 10,000-baht handout
Anti-drunk driving campaigners have called on recipients of the government’s 10,000-baht cash handout to avoid spending the money on alcohol to prevent accidents. Phattarabhandhu Krissana, chairman of the Network of Victims Against Drunk Driving, emphasised that the funds should be used for necessities or investments instead of alcoholic beverages, which could lead to accidents and disabilities. The Network of Victims…
- Crime News
Police probe Mae Tuck’s gold shop for money laundering
Police are set to investigate the gold shop business of Kornkanok Suwannabut, known on social media as Mae Tuck, to determine if it is being used as a front for money laundering. Kornkanok and her husband Kanpol face accusations of selling jewellery with less gold content than advertised during livestream sessions on her social media platform. Kornkanok has reportedly stated…
- Thailand News
Peta accuses Thai zoo of exploiting baby pygmy hippo Moo Deng
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta) has levelled accusations against Khao Kheow Open Zoo, alleging that the zoo is exploiting Moo Deng, a baby pygmy hippo, claiming she should be in the wild and not paraded for profit. “TikTok turned Moo Deng into a celebrity, but the reality is far from cute,” read a post on Peta’s Facebook…
- Crime News
Coffee vendor banned for 30 days after altercation with tourist (video)
A coffee shop owner at Talad Rom Hub train market in Mae Klong district has been ordered to close his shop for 30 days following a vulgar gesture towards a Spanish tourist. Captured on video, the vendor was seen pushing and yelling at the tourist, a clip that swiftly spread across social media, inciting a public outcry. The Maeklong railway…
- Crime News
Thai officer’s suicide linked to wife’s 100 million baht fraud scheme
A woman involved in a controversial rotating savings scheme in Buri Ram is now suspected to be linked to the apparent suicide of her police officer husband, investigators report. Police found the officer, 42 year old Nattaphon, dead in his Ford Ranger with a bullet wound to the right side of his head and a 9-millimetre pistol nearby. The vehicle…
- Thailand News
Khao Kheow Zoo earns 12 million baht from Moo Deng’s live stream fame
Khao Kheow Open Zoo has captured global attention with live streaming of Moo Deng, a baby pygmy hippo, drawing fans from around the world. The zoo reported a significant surge in visitors, earning over 12 million baht from September 1 to 19, and anticipates revenue up to 200 million baht from one million visitors by the end of its fiscal…
- Phuket News
Young Thai artists’ exhibition opens in Phuket today
Trapped on an Island, an art exhibition curated by young artists, opened yesterday at the Phuket Contemporary Art Gallery at Provincial Hall. Running from today until September 30, the exhibition features works by 45 artists from across Thailand, all under the age of 35. Part of the TIDKOR Young Contemporary Art and Exhibition, this event is held under the 3rd…
- Crime News
Police in Pathum Thani seize 80 kilograms of crystal meth, arrest two
Police in Pathum Thani province have apprehended two individuals suspected of drug trafficking and seized 80 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine along with firearms. Metropolitan Police Bureau (MPB) officers detained a 23 year old man, known only as Onn, after discovering 80 bags of crystal methamphetamine and two sachets of ketamine concealed in his Isuzu MU-X pickup. The arrest occurred on…
- Thailand News
Woman, 27, falls to death from 43rd floor in Bangkok condo
A 27 year old woman tragically fell to her death from the 43rd floor of her condominium in Bangkok’s Huai Khwang area, prompting an ongoing police investigation. Police Major General Chawarit Chankaen, an investigator with the Sutthisan police station, reported receiving an urgent call about a body discovered on the ground on September 20. He immediately responded to the scene,…
- Crime News
Man arrested for fatal shooting of brother in Lampang land dispute
A man has been arrested in Muang Pan district, Lampang, following the fatal shooting of his brother during an argument over land inheritance. Police responding to reports of a gunshot in a local village yesterday night discovered the body of 55 year old Jaipan Wiwatphong, who had sustained a fatal shotgun wound to the chest. His brother, 52 year old…
