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Category: Thailand News

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  • Apple’s sweet surprise: iPhone 15 lineup set to juice up Thailand’s smartphone sales

    Apple’s sweet surprise: iPhone 15 lineup set to juice up Thailand’s smartphone sales

    Apple Inc’s new line of iPhone 15 models is set to boost Thailand’s smartphone sales in the fourth quarter, say industry analysts and a mobile phone distributor. In the premium smartphone market in Thailand, Apple and Samsung devices continue to reign.

    Apple debuted the iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max on Tuesday. Thai consumers will be among the first to access these models, with preorders opening tomorrow and widespread availability from September 22. The iPhone15 Pro Max starts at 48,900 baht and the 15 Pro is priced at 41,900 baht, as per Apple Store Thailand’s website.

    Apirat Ratanavichit, a market analyst at IDC Thailand, believes that the iPhone 15 series will contribute to market growth due to its strong appeal to Thai consumers and high-end users. These users are likely to be drawn to the titanium build of the iPhone 15 Pro series, the new 48MP camera’s performance, and the improved chip performance. In the Thai market, the Pro series consistently outperforms the standard models.

    The premium mobile phone segment experienced robust performance in the first quarter of the year, driven by strong consumer demand for the iPhone 14 series and a positive response to the Samsung Galaxy S23 and S23 Ultra launch. Inflation had a lesser impact on this segment. However, the second quarter saw a shift towards lower-mid range segments, and the premium segment performed poorly as consumers likely awaited the new iPhone’s third-quarter release.

    Apple and Samsung dominate the premium smartphone segment in Thailand, with Apple holding about a 70% market share, followed by Samsung at approximately 20%, according to IDC Thailand.

    IDC predicts a flat growth year-on-year for the Thai smartphone market in the fourth quarter of 2023, marking an end to the year-on-year declines of the previous quarters of 2023.

    Apirat said…

    “For 2024, we are expecting the market to rebound due to stimulus policies from the new government resulting in increased consumer spending.”

    In the first half of 2023, the premium segment’s share in Thailand rose to 15% of the market, up from 10% in the same period last year.

    Glen Cardoza, senior analyst of Counterpoint Research, stated that Apple’s launch event was a solid display across all models. He sees potential for continued average selling price strength with the base model being a strong upgrade for many, and the top-end model introducing smart titanium luxe and a powerful 5x optical zoom.

    However, Cardoza believes the iPhone 15 series’ success will not be enough for the country’s smartphone market to rebound. Apple enjoyed a 29% year-on-year growth in the second quarter of 2023 in Thailand, the highest among the top five brands, but its share was just over 10%. Macroeconomic problems affected the first half of the year.

    Brands like Xiaomi, Oppo, Vivo, and Realme have been conservative in launching new smartphone models in the premium price segment, which has slightly impacted this segment due to a lack of options for consumers.

    Dusit Sukhumvithaya, CEO of JayMart Mobile Plc, anticipates a warm reception for the new iPhone15 from Apple’s fan base, especially early adopters using the existing iPhone14 models. However, he expressed concerns about the supply availability, which needs to be allocated among the first-tier countries.

    In the first half of 2023, overall smartphone sales in Thailand contracted by 10% while the value rose by 1%. Sales in 2023 are expected to total 12-13 million units.

    In related news, Apple unveiled their new iPhone and Apple Watch models with relatively modest changes alongside higher prices. Read here to learn more.

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  • Thailand tourism shifts focus to Kazakhstan amid slow Chinese tourism recovery

    Thailand tourism shifts focus to Kazakhstan amid slow Chinese tourism recovery

    Chinese tourists aren’t expected to immediately surge to 700,000 arrivals per month, despite a prospective Thailand tourism visa–free scheme, due to safety concerns and lower flight frequencies, currently at half of their pre-pandemic 2019 levels.

    Phuket’s tourism operators are instead setting their sights on Kazakhstan, to be granted visa-free entries from September 25 to February 29, 2024. Travel agents see this market as having high potential. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) stated that the seat capacity for Chinese flights for the final quarter is around 400,000 seats, compared to double that in the same period in 2019.

    The Association of Thai Travel Agents’ president, Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, highlighted the challenges of achieving the government’s target of five million yearly Chinese arrivals, a number which currently stands at 350,000 per month. Between January 1 and September 10, there were 2.28 million arrivals from China.

    Sisdivachr expressed that a quick decision to implement a visa-free scheme would help the Thailand tourism market. However, due to Thailand’s safety reputation among Chinese netizens and insufficient flights, he expects this policy to only boost the market by 50%.

    Prior to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s upcoming visit to China, it is suggested that the government should use this opportunity to discuss tourism cooperation and request Beijing’s help in controlling fake news about Thailand tourism on Chinese social media.

    There are also concerns about the potential difficulties many Chinese citizens face when applying for passports, another hurdle the Thai government cannot overcome without assistance from Beijing.

    A TAT executive, requesting anonymity, stated that a visa-free policy will have a limited impact if the number of airline seats does not rise from the current 400,000 in the last quarter. The TAT is collaborating with airlines to increase flights to China and push the load factor to 80-85% in the fourth quarter, up from the current 40%.

    On the other hand, Kazakh tourists are projected to reach a record high of 180,000-200,000 this year. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT’s deputy governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas, identified Kazakhstan as the fastest-growing market for Thailand.

    Data from Phuket Airport Immigration revealed that visitors from Kazakhstan increased by 580% to 76,421 during the first half of this year. Kazakh tourists can only apply for a 30-day tourist visa, unlike Chinese travellers.

    As of Sunday, September 10, the number of Kazakh arrivals to Thailand this year was 108,636, up from 56,000 in 2019. This market has high potential, with tourists spending an average of 4,365 baht per person per day and an average stay length of 14 days.

    Cheawsamoot expects the visa-free scheme to encourage Kazakh tourists to extend their stays, particularly during the upcoming winter when airfares remain high.

    From October, scheduled flights between Thailand and Kazakhstan will increase to 14 per week, divided equally between Bangkok and Phuket. Phuket is also anticipated to have 10 more chartered flights weekly from Kazakhstan’s first- and second-tier cities this winter.

    However, limited slots at Phuket International Airport could pose a challenge, leading TAT to convince some airlines to utilise Krabi Airport instead.

    In related news, issues in the Chinese economy dampen the number of Chinese tourists that come to Thailand. Click HERE to find out why.

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  • Former Thai senator and MP candidate denies involvement in child prostitution

    Former Thai senator and MP candidate denies involvement in child prostitution

    A 15 year old girl who was rescued from prostitution accused a former high-ranking politician of buying sexual services from the teenager. The politician in question is identified as a former senator and Pheu Thai Party candidate.

    Baan Mor Police Station officers arrested a Burmese woman on Tuesday, September 12 for forcing her 15 year old daughter into prostitution in the central province of Saraburi. The teenage victim claimed that her clients ranged from a local man to a school principal and a high-ranking politician.

    As a result, an investigating officer conducted a further probe into all of the clients and issued five arrest warrants against them. The five alleged clients are identified as:

    • Suriya, a medical professional at a hospital in Lop Buri.
    • Pornchai, a construction contractor.
    • Daecha, a former director of the Sara Buri Provincial Buddhism Office.
    • Prasong, a salesperson in Nakhon Pathom province.
    • Boonsong Kerdlam, a former senator and a candidate for a Member of Parliament from the Pheu Thai Party.

    Police said another man was suspected of buying the sex service but there was insufficient evidence to arrest him.

    All the suspects were charged with taking a minor away from her parents or guardian for an obscene purpose. The penalty is two to 10 years imprisonment and a fine of 40,000 to 200,000 baht under Section 319 of the Criminal Law.

    Four suspects on the list surrendered to police on 13 September. Some admitted their illegal activities, while others denied them. All were released on bail.

    The 57 year old former senator, Boonsong, surrendered to police yesterday, September 13. He denied the charges and was later released on bail. Police said the former senator was accompanied by his lawyer and would defend himself in court.

    According to a report on Matichon, the victim is now under the care of the Kredtrakarn Protection and Occupational Development Centre in Bangkok, while her Burmese mother is being held in Saraburi prison.

     

    ORIGINAL STORY: Burmese woman arrested forcing 15 year old daughter into prostitution

    A Thai man filed a complaint against his ex-wife for forcing their 15 year old daughter into prostitution at a resort in the central province of Saraburi.

    The 37 year old Thai man, named A, accompanied by his daughter’s school teacher, Baan Mor Police Station officers to arrest his former Burmese wife, 37 year old Mamiao, yesterday, September 11

    A explained that he was divorced from his wife and his daughter lived with her mother since they split up. However, his daughter recently ran away from home to stay with her friends and stopped going to school. The teenage girl’s father later found out about her absence from school when her teacher came to his house looking for her.

    A later found his daughter and discovered why she had left home.

    The teenage girl, named Suay revealed that her mother had been pimping her to men at a resort where her mother worked. Suay said she was not the only girl being pimped into prostitution. There were other teenage girls whom the mother would summon when the perverted men asked.

    Suay explained that she had to run away from home because a client liked her and tried to take her to live with him.

    According to the victim, they were paid 1,500 to 5,000 baht each time, and clients ranged from a local man to a school principal and a high-ranking politician.

    Officers issued an arrest warrant for the woman and arrested her the same day. Mamiao admitted her crime adding that she had to pimp out her daughter and others in prostitution because she was a single mother and needed money to raise her daughter.

    Mamiao confessed that she had five to six regular clients. The money she received was between 1,000 and 2,000 baht each time, not 5,000 baht as her daughter claimed.

    Mamiao was charged with two offences, including…

    • Section 64 of the Immigration Act: entering the kingdom illegally. The penalty will be imprisonment of up to five years and a fine of up to 50,000 baht.
    • Section 6 of the Act on Prevention and Suppression of Prostitution: Operating human trafficking from child prostitution. Act against the victims aged over 15 years old but not over 18 years old, the penalty will be imprisonment from six to 15 years and a fine from 600,000 to 1,500,000 baht.

    Police officers are now investigating to identify the rest of the girls involved and to identify the clients.

    Some Thai media outlets reported that one of the politicians is a current member of Parliament.

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  • Thailand’s tourism reboot: aiming high with a 2.4 trillion baht comeback

    Thailand’s tourism reboot: aiming high with a 2.4 trillion baht comeback

    The Thai government unveiled an ambitious strategy aimed at revitalising its tourism industry, to generate revenue of 2.4 trillion baht this year. This figure equates to approximately 80% of the income recorded in the sector’s peak year of 2019. A spokesperson for the government, Chai Wacharonke, revealed the plans yesterday.

    The government has further goals for the domestic tourism sector, aiming to accrue 3.1 trillion baht by 2024. In addition to this, the nation aims to attract 40 million international tourists by next year.

    Their hope for this year is to witness the arrival of 28 million foreign tourists, thereby generating over 1.4 trillion baht in income. This would be a significant increase from the 600 billion baht acquired last year. Chai stated that the total revenue from tourism this year is expected to be around 2.4 trillion baht.

    With the 2.4 trillion baht, we are looking at covering 80% of the revenue that was generated before the pandemic, mentioned the spokesperson.

    In a bid to reach these targets, the government initiated ten different measures, all designed to stimulate the economy through various tourism promotions. The first of these measures is a visa waiver for tourists coming from China and Kazakhstan.

    The government also plans to enhance the security for international visitors to Thailand, in response to some Chinese tourists’ concerns about unsafe travel conditions.

    In addition, the government plans to leverage the influence of social media personalities, musicians, celebrities, and high-ranking government officials from China. They will share their travel experiences in Thailand through commercials and public relations campaigns to boost the country’s promotion.

    Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin will spearhead a roadshow that aims to showcase Thailand’s tourism and attract tourists from targeted nations.

    The government also plans to increase direct flights to and from essential markets to Thai provinces, specifically those viewed as secondary tourist destinations, Bangkok Post reported.

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  • Minister’s pork order: 4,300 tonnes of smuggled pork ‘trashed’ in Sa Kaeo landfill

    Minister’s pork order: 4,300 tonnes of smuggled pork ‘trashed’ in Sa Kaeo landfill

    The Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Thamanat Prompow commanded that the disposal of approximately 4,300 tonnes of unlawfully smuggled pork be carried out in a Sa Kaeo landfill. The pork was earlier seized at Laem Chabang port during a Department of the Special Investigation (DSI) probe in July. The confiscated shipment, valued at over 500 million baht, comprised 161 containers.

    Thamanat emphasised that the ministry is prioritising the prevention and crackdown of illicit agricultural imports, particularly smuggled pork. This strategy is aimed at precluding potential animal pandemics, thwarting market manipulation, and safeguarding consumers.

    The Department of Livestock Development has been entrusted with managing the carcass burial at the Animal Nutrition Research and Development Centre landfill in Sa Kaeo. A joint effort will be required, with officials from the Royal Thai Police, the DSI, the Swine Raisers Association of Thailand, and the Customs Department participating in the operation, according to the Department of Livestock Development’s director-general, Dr Somchuan Ratanamungklanon.

    According to Dr Somchuan, the entire procedure, which will adhere to the World Organisation for Animal Health’s standard process, is expected to take five days. Six large pits lined with polyethene will be used to bury the smuggled pork, preventing the surrounding area from being contaminated by decomposition. Furthermore, pipes will be installed in these pits to safely discharge the gases produced during decomposition.

    Dr Somchuan highlighted the concern that smuggled pork could potentially be a carrier of African swine fever, a highly infectious and deadly disease.

    From the first of October last year to the end of August this year, Thailand has confiscated approximately 1,142 tonnes of smuggled pork in 238 separate cases, excluding the DSI seizure. The seized pork, worth 190 million baht, has mostly been disposed of, with 1,049 tonnes already processed.

    In a notable incident in June, over ten tonnes of unlawfully imported frozen pork were seized from a cold storage facility in Samut Sakhon, Bangkok Post reported.

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  • Former provincial chief’s journey ends in tragic car crash on Rama II Road

    Former provincial chief’s journey ends in tragic car crash on Rama II Road

    A former Provincial Chief of Prachuap Khiri Khan province tragically lost his life in a car crash. The fatal incident occurred this morning, when his Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, registered in Prachuap Khiri Khan, crashed into a roadside barrier on Rama II Road, flipping the vehicle and ending fatally.

    The deceased, identified as 55 year old Prakit, was an esteemed figure in the region, having served as both the Provincial Police Chief of Prachuap Khiri Khan and the former President of the Prachuap Khiri Khan Tourism Business Association.

    The car crash accident scene, a four-lane road, was strewn with the wreckage of the Pajero, its left side showing signs of a collision with the concrete roadside barrier. A team from Bang Mot Police Station, along with a forensic doctor from Siriraj Hospital and volunteers from the Po Tek Tung Foundation, attended the scene.

    Prakit’s 52 year old wife, Sunanta, who was also in the car during the accident, survived the incident. She reported that they were en route to Ramathibodi Hospital for Prakit’s scheduled medical appointment for kidney disease treatment.

    The couple had set off from Samut Sakhon province. Sunanta, who had been sleeping during the journey but wearing her seatbelt, recalled her husband was always diligent in wearing his seatbelt, reported KhaoSod.

    She recounted waking up shocked as their car violently swerved and flipped. When she regained her senses, she found her husband unconscious. Volunteers arrived swiftly at the car crash scene, extricating them from the wreckage. Sunanta speculated that her husband might have dozed off due to fatigue from the long drive.

    An examination of CCTV footage from Rama II Road revealed the vehicle’s headlights were on, and it was swaying slightly before the crash, indicating potential drowsiness. The car then veered into the left lane, collided with the concrete barrier, and flipped. Fortunately, other vehicles managed to stop in time, preventing a pile-up.

    The deceased’s vehicle is now in custody at Bang Mot Police Station. Following a thorough autopsy by the forensic doctor, Prakit’s body will be released to his family for funeral rites.

    This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of driving while fatigued.

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  • Flames of justice: Police uncover dead body’s identity and suspect drug gang-linked murder

    Flames of justice: Police uncover dead body’s identity and suspect drug gang-linked murder

    After finding the scorched body of a dead man, Chai Badan Police Station officers successfully determined his identity, the suspect, and the motive behind the murder, which is connected to a dispute within a drug trafficking gang.

    A local made the shocking discovery of a dead body while he was riding his motorcycle past the spot. The dead man was set on fire, his two hands were in cuffs, and he bore several wounds on his head. His identity was not disclosed, and no one in the area had filed a complaint on a missing person.

    The superintendent of the Chai Badan Police Station, Chaimitr Sittiphun, reported yesterday, September 13, that his officers investigated the lifeless body of the man found in the forest in Lop Buri. They discovered that the victim was not of Chinese nationality, as initially believed by the officers.

    According to the superintendent, the deceased is a Thai man called 39 year old Pichai Butyapaijit from Nakhon Nayok province. Pichai relocated to Lop Buri for work and resided with his relatives before the murder.

    The officers added that Pichai was previously charged and imprisoned for drug-related offences and theft. He had been released from prison just last year.

    The motive behind the murder remains under investigation, but the police believe that the conflict was within his drug trafficking network. More than one suspect is involved in the case and they still remain at large for now. The police are committed to conducting an in-depth investigation to apprehend the murderers.

     

    ORIGINAL STORY: Grim discovery in the woods: Unidentified foreigner found dead and burned in Lop Buri forest

    A local man discovered the dead body of an unidentified foreign man in a forest in the central province of Lop Buri. Police believe the man was murdered before being burned at the scene.

    A Thai man, 55 year old Somboon Onjaeng, reported the shocking discovery to Chai Badan Police Station at 10am yesterday, September 12. The Somboon informed officers that he was riding his motorcycle in the area to go fishing and encountered, what initially appeared to be a discarded mannequin, but upon closer inspection, revealed itself to be a lifeless human body.

    Officers and a rescue team rushed to the scene to investigate the man’s death. They discovered the lifeless burned body in the forest located 20 metres away from the roadside.

    According to the police report, all of the deceased’s clothes were set ablaze leaving only a button on his Mc Jeans trousers. The man’s head bore several wounds and his hands were in cuffs.

    Officers believe the man was murdered and the suspects attempted to conceal the dead body by burning it.

    The superintendent of the Chai Badan Police Station, Chaimitr Sittiphun, reported to ThaiRath that his officers had not yet managed to identify the deceased but they believed that he was not a resident of the area as no one had filed a complaint on a missing person.

    Officers anticipated that the man was murdered at a different location before being transported to the forest. A security camera revealed that the deceased was a Chinese man who was working at a factory in the province.

    The superintendent assured the press that they would be able to identify the dead body shortly and arrest the murderer very soon. Officers would also coordinate with other police stations within the province and outside to check any missing person reports.

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  • Energizing savings: Government’s cost-cutting shock eases financial pressure

    Energizing savings: Government’s cost-cutting shock eases financial pressure

    The Employers’ Confederation of Thai Trade and Industry (EconThai) expressed approval for the Thai government’s latest move to slash both electricity and diesel costs. This initiative is aimed at alleviating the financial pressure on households and businesses.

    The reduction in power tariff was confirmed yesterday, following Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin‘s policy statement announcement in parliament, reports Bangkok Post.

    The new power tariff is set at 4.104 baht per kilowatt-hour, a decrease from the previous rate of 4.45 baht. Additionally, a price ceiling of 30 baht per litre has been established for diesel, a slight drop from the current 31.94 baht per litre.

    Vice-chairman of EconThai, Tanit Sorat, believes that these reductions will prove beneficial for businesses, particularly those in the logistics sector, as it will enable cost-saving. He also said that consumers should expect a stable price for goods.

    “Such measures will ultimately deter an increase in the price of goods, which favours households.”

    Despite this, Sorat also voiced concerns about the potential negative impact these measures could have on the state budget, potentially creating future financial problems for citizens.

    The updated power tariff will be applicable from September to December, replacing the current rate. The revised diesel retail price is due to come into effect from September 20.

    In a bid to lower the diesel price to 30 baht per litre, the Cabinet has decided to reduce the diesel excise tax by 2.50 baht a litre from September 20 until the end of the year. This reduction, Deputy Finance Minister Krisada Chinavicharana said, would lead to a decrease in government revenue collection by up to 15 billion baht. Nevertheless, the state revenue collection for fiscal 2023 is projected to surpass its target by over 100 billion baht.

    Bangkok Bank President, Chartsiri Sophonpanich, anticipates that the new government’s economic policy will stimulate the economy, foster growth and boost the country’s long-term competitiveness.

    Somprawin Manprasert, Chief Economist at the Economic Intelligence Center (EIC), however, warns against the potential long-term fiscal burden of large stimulus plans, such as the 10,000-baht digital currency handout scheme, despite their potential short-term benefits.

    Manprasert suggests other viable options for reviving the economy during recovery, such as enhancing Thailand’s competitive advantage domestically and internationally and expanding economic opportunities.

    The EIC advocates for a long-term economic policy centred on boosting the country’s competitiveness and sustainable growth. It also recommends the government promote fair competition, improve the effectiveness of the 2017 Trade Competition Act, and support Thailand in joining the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

    The EIC further suggests that the government’s blueprint should drive sustainable economic growth via tax policy reform to reduce inequality and avoid tax policies that may distort business or household decision-making.

    The revised economic growth outlook for Thailand this year, as per the EIC’s estimate, has been reduced from 3.9% to 3.1% due to lower-than-expected economic expansion and continued export contraction in the second quarter.

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  • Firearm amnesty: Illegal Thai gun owners given 30 days to ‘trigger’ compliance

    Firearm amnesty: Illegal Thai gun owners given 30 days to ‘trigger’ compliance

    In an attempt to crackdown on illegal firearm possession, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin drafted a 30-day amnesty for gun owners without permits. They now have a month to turn in these firearms at any police station before stricter enforcement measures are applied.

    This initiative was implemented yesterday, September 13, following a raid where a team of 100 officials targeted 21 locations in Nakhon Pathom. The operation resulted in the seizure of around 16 guns and 200 bullets from a network likened to organised crime.

    This network has been connected to a recent shooting incident involving a highway police officer, which took place at a social gathering at the residence of Praween Chanklai, a local leader and construction business operator also known as Nok.

    Government spokesperson, Chai Wacharonke, stated that Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has been designated by Prime Minister Srettha to oversee a team specifically set up to execute the month-long amnesty, reported Bangkok Post.

    Deputy Interior Minister Chada Thaiset, who had previously been tasked by Anutin to conduct a nationwide examination of local leaders with potential affiliations to powerful organised crime groups, confirmed that all provinces are actively pursuing this task.

    This action was initiated by Anutin in reaction to the murder of Police Major Sivakorn Saibua, an officer of Highway Police Division 2, in Nakhon Pathom.

    According to an anonymous police source, nine of the seized firearms were discovered in the home of Pol Sargeant Major Pisit Chiewpreecha. It is alleged that Praween had requested Pol. Maj. Sivakorn at the social gathering to grant Pisit a special promotional transfer, which Sivakorn declined, preceding his subsequent murder.

    Deputy national police chief, Police General Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn, disclosed that two vehicles suspected to be used by the assailants to escape the crime scene were located at a firm associated with Praween.

    In related news, A group of six including a Mercedes-Benz driver were arrested after it was discovered that the vehicle contained illegal substances and an unregistered firearm. Read here to learn more.

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  • Thai digital delights: DEPA and partners unlock future of gaming, animation, characters

    Thai digital delights: DEPA and partners unlock future of gaming, animation, characters

    The Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA), in collaboration with esteemed partners including the Thai Digital Content Association (DCAT), Thai Animation and Computer Graphics Association (TACGA), Thai Game Software Industry Association (TGA), Bangkok ACM SIGGRAPH, and Atwise Consulting Company, has unveiled a comprehensive survey and evaluation report on the state of the Thai digital content industry encompassing games, animation, and characters for the year 2022, accompanied by a forward-looking three-year forecast.

    It was revealed that the total value of the Thai digital content industry in 2022 witnessed an average decline of 4%, due to the contraction of the game industry, which makes up a significant 85% of the total value of the industry, totalling 40,518 million baht. Despite this, it’s estimated that the digital content industry will continue to grow, with the total value expected to expand to 44,983 million baht by 2025.

    The gaming industry in 2022 had a total value of 34,556 million baht, a decline of 7% due to a decrease in the number of players and playtime as people’s lifestyles return to normal. However, the gaming industry has the potential to grow due to the development of new player experiences and the emergence of GameFi or Game NFT, which allows investment and revenue generation.

    The animation industry expanded by an average of 15% last year, with a total value of 3,936 million baht. Thailand is a key outsourcing location for animation and CG/VFX work, receiving orders primarily from China, Japan, South Korea, Europe, the United States, Hong Kong, Singapore, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Canada.

    The character industry in 2022 grew by 26% with a total value of 2,025 million baht, due to an increase in tourists and an improved economic situation. However, a significant issue for the character industry is the lack of awareness about intellectual property and copyright.

    For the first time, DEPA and its partners included the electronic book industry in their survey.

    Last year, the e-book industry had a total value of 3,712 million baht, driven by the lifestyle of modern consumers who prefer convenience and the ability to access content anywhere, anytime, without having to carry physical books.

    The behaviour of the younger generation, who prefer to create content and distribute it on online platforms such as Web Novel, E-book, E-comic, and Webtoon, also contributes to this growth.

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  • Wild west drama unfolds at Samui Airport: Minibus driver shoots Grab driver in fiery clash

    Wild west drama unfolds at Samui Airport: Minibus driver shoots Grab driver in fiery clash

    Samui International Airport in the southern province of Surat Thani turned into a scene from a Western movie after a minibus driver shot a Grab driver following a heated dispute.

    Bophut Police Station officers rushed to a parking area of the arrival passenger terminal in the airport to investigate the shooting scene. Officers discovered travellers were shocked by the incident while the victim, a 30 year old man named Boy, was transferred to Bangkok Samui Hospital before police arrived at the scene.

    During their initial examination of the scene, officers uncovered three bullet shells and traces of blood near the parking fee collection counter.

    The witnesses reported to officers that the gunman was a 50 year old Pathom who fled the scene in his minibus after the shooting.

    Witnesses informed officers that Pathom was generally a good person and helped out as a rescue volunteer. On the incident day, Pathom reportedly told Boy to stop soliciting passengers within the terminal and suggested that he wait outside, as the designated spot was intended solely for minibus drivers.

    According to the witnesses, the altercation escalated when Boy punched Pathom in the face. Pathom rushed back to his minibus to get a gun and shot Boy several times. Boy tried to flee from the scene but collapsed near the parking fee collection counter, while Pathom made his escape.

    The Bophut Police Station officers revealed to ThaiRath that Pathom and Boy had a long-standing dispute, previously mediated by the authorities but persistently reoccurring.

    Almost every airport in Thailand has established areas for taxis, minibuses, and app-based ride services to prevent conflicts among service providers and to enhance passenger convenience.

    For instance, at Suvarnabhumi Airport, the first-floor parking area is exclusively designated for taxis. Grab, an app-based ride service, advises its users to choose pickup locations outside the passenger terminal on the fourth and second floors.

    Phuket International Airport has just allowed Grab drivers to pick up passengers within the airport premises, starting on September 1. The airport added that they planned to allow drivers from other applications to provide service inside the airport as well.

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  • Rain reigns: Homes flooded in surprise deluge in Phayao, northeast Thailand

    Rain reigns: Homes flooded in surprise deluge in Phayao, northeast Thailand

    A torrential rain shower caused mayhem as it dampened the spirits of over 100 households in Phayao province in northeast Thailand. Locals hastily scurried to relocate their possessions to more sheltered spots.

    The relentless rain, which persisted both day and night, resulted in a cascade of water from the woods, spilling into the Mae Tam River. The resulting flood inundated residences, roads, and farmlands in Mae Tam Subdistrict, Mueang District, creating quite the aquatic spectacle.

    The worst-hit areas included Mae Tam, Pa Lan, Inthanon, Phu Min, and Mueang Chum communities. Despite their best attempts to barricade their homes with sandbags, the water still managed to infiltrate many residences.

    Areas like Ban Pa Lan and Ban Phu Min, which are prone to such flooding every year, were also inundated despite the existing protective walls. The water from the Mae Tam River keeps entering and flooding the houses, reported KhaoSod.

    In the face of this disaster, many community members moved their possessions to higher grounds. Some were not as fortunate, with their belongings swept away by the floodwaters. Those whose houses were filled with water used water pumps to drain out the water through their fences. Houses that were not yet affected took precautions by barricading their entrance and fences with sandbags to prevent water from entering.

    The situation was expected to improve once the rain ceased. At the time of reporting, the skies were still overcast with rain clouds, and scattered showers were seen across the region.

    In related news, substantial flooding due to heavy rain swamped the holiday resort of Phuket in July, prompting police to shut down several of its main roads.

    Streets across the town became untraversable, leading to police-imposed road closures. The water levels in Bang Yai Canal, the canal that transits through the city providing a key drainage channel into the sea, have risen to potentially hazardous levels. To read more click HERE.

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  • Lampang girl, 9, sexually assaulted by teacher: Harrowing incident sparks outrage

    Lampang girl, 9, sexually assaulted by teacher: Harrowing incident sparks outrage

    A nine year old girl in Lampang province was reportedly sexually assaulted in a school restroom by a 28 year old male teacher from another institution. The sexual assault was brought to the attention of the police yesterday by the victim’s mother, a 28 year old Lampang resident.

    The mother became suspicious after noticing her daughter had started menstruating, an abnormal occurrence for her age. On probing, the young girl broke down and confessed to the traumatic sexual assault that had taken place in the school restroom. She revealed that the male teacher had followed her into the restroom and sexually assaulted her, further threatening her with dire consequences if she disclosed the incident to anyone, reported Sanook.

    The sexual assault incident supposedly occurred on August 25 when the teacher, who was visiting for a meeting and training session, followed the girl into the restroom, locked the door and assaulted her. The girl returned home but did not report the incident out of fear. Several days passed before the parent noticed her uncharacteristic behaviour and physical discomfort, leading to the heartbreaking revelation.

    Following the confession, the mother immediately reported the case to the local police in Sob Prab district. The young victim was also taken to the hospital for a physical examination, which confirmed the sexual assault. The police have since been alerted and are expected to summon the teacher in question for questioning, in order to proceed with legal action.

    In June, a mother sought help from a news agency to highlight the rape and sexual assault of her 13 year old daughter by three male students at a high school in the Romklao neighbourhood of Bangkok after the police and school ignored her case.

    The 33 year old mother, named Bee, told the media that she only recently learned about the rape because her daughter lives with her ex-husband half of the time. To read more click HERE.

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  • Rain reigns: Severe weather warning blankets 43 Thai provinces with flood fear

    Rain reigns: Severe weather warning blankets 43 Thai provinces with flood fear

    The Thai Meteorological Department issued a severe weather warning for 43 provinces in Thailand, with heavy continuous rain, affecting 80% of the area in the north and northeast regions, including Bangkok. This sudden rainfall could potentially cause flash flooding and forest runoffs.

    The storm is caused by a strong monsoon trough passing through Myanmar, the upper part of northern Thailand, and the upper part of Laos, entering a low-pressure area in the upper part of Vietnam and the Gulf of Tonkin.

    This weather pattern will result in heavy to very heavy rainfall in some areas of the northern, northeastern, central and eastern regions. Citizens in these areas are urged to be cautious of dangers from heavy rainfall and accumulated rain, which could lead to sudden flash floods and forest runoffs, especially in areas near slopes, waterways, and lowland areas. Extra caution should also be taken when travelling through areas with thunderstorms during this period.

    The northern part of the Andaman Sea and the upper part of the Gulf of Thailand have waves of 1-2 metres high. In areas with thunderstorms, the waves could be over 2 metres high. Boat operators in these areas are advised to navigate with caution and avoid areas with thunderstorms, reported KhaoSod.

    The weather forecast for Thailand from 6am today to 6am tomorrow suggests heavy thunderstorms covering 80% of the northern region, with some areas experiencing heavy to very heavy rainfall, particularly in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampoon, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, Phrae, Uttaradit, Tak, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun provinces. The minimum temperature is 23-25 degrees Celsius and the maximum temperature is 29-32 degrees Celsius. The southwestern wind has a speed of 10-20 kilometres per hour.

    The northeast region will also experience thunderstorms covering 80% of the area with heavy to very heavy rainfall in some areas, particularly in Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Kalasin, Mukdahan, Amnat Charoen, and Ubon Ratchathani provinces. The minimum temperature is 23-25 degrees Celsius and the maximum temperature is 28-32 degrees Celsius. The southwestern wind has a speed of 10-25 kilometres per hour.

    Meanwhile, the central and eastern regions will see thunderstorms covering 70% of the area with heavy rainfall in some areas. The minimum temperature is 23-27 degrees Celsius and the maximum temperature is 28-33 degrees Celsius. The southwestern wind has a speed of 10-35 kilometres per hour. Waves in the sea are 1-2 metres high. In areas with thunderstorms, waves could be over 2 metres high.

    Bangkok and its vicinity will see thunderstorms covering 70% of the area. The minimum temperature is 26-27 degrees Celsius and the maximum temperature is 31-34 degrees Celsius. The southwestern wind has a speed of 10-25 kilometres per hour.

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  • Time to shine: MFP leader Pita makes it to Time100 Next list

    Time to shine: MFP leader Pita makes it to Time100 Next list

    Move Forward Party (MFP) leader Pita Limjaroenrat has been included in the TIME100 Next list unveiled by the American news magazine, Time. Time magazine recently released its annual TIME100 Next list, which aims to recognise individuals who have excelled in their respective fields and have had a significant impact on and served as an inspiration to others in their communities.

    This list features 100 influential figures from various parts of the world, grouped into categories such as artists, phenoms, innovators, leaders, and advocates.

    Pita yesterday expressed his pride and excitement about being included in the list on his Instagram account, @pita.ig.

    “It is indeed an honour to be selected as part of TIME100 Next by Time magazine, alongside notable figures such as the President of the EU Parliament, the First Minister of Scotland, the Chief Minister of Sierra Leone, the mayors of Taipei, Monterey, and Kathmandu, as well as various Japanese and US politicians. I hope that I will have the opportunity to travel to New York for the Time Gala and connect with Thai people residing in the US.”

    Pita’s recognition in Time 100 Next falls within the “Leader” category. The correspondent at Time, Charlie Campbell, reflected on the 42 year old MFP leader’s journey.

    “The only thing more stunning than Pita Limjaroenrat’s election victory was the radical agenda he ran on to achieve it.”

    The magazine also mentions that Pita garnered 38% of the votes in the General Election 2023, but “Pita’s path to power has been blocked by an unelected Senate and a flurry of legal challenges.”

    The former leader of the Future Forward Party, Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, was also listed in a previous TIME100 Next in 2019 as well.

    Check the whole list of TiIME100 Next via Time magazine’s official website HERE.

    During the Thai General Election this year, Pita and MFP managed to secure 151 seats in Parliament but the leader could not manage to secure enough support from other parties and senators to secure the prime minister’s position.

    In related Pita news, on September 10, the MFP leader celebrated comrade MFP MP Pingsathon Sornphetnarin’s re-election victory in Rayong province in the eastern region of Thailand.

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  • Car engine snake-tastrophe: Late-night drive in Bangkok takes a twist with surprise python visit

    Car engine snake-tastrophe: Late-night drive in Bangkok takes a twist with surprise python visit

    A woman’s late-night drive took a slithery turn when a python, perhaps seeking a different kind of ‘carb’uretor, surprised her by emerging from the engine compartment after she returned from a meal. At around 1am on September 14, emergency services from the Thung Mahamek Fire Station were called to a parking lot in front of a convenience store in the Yan Nawa district of Bangkok.

    The woman had been driving back from a meal with friends at Lang Linchi Road when the incident occurred. The 32 year old driver, and identified only as Monchanapath, was shocked to see a python’s head emerge from the front of her black Mazda2 car, with the license plate 7KT3806.

    Monchanapath managed to quickly pull over and stop the car, immediately calling for assistance. The snake, identified as a one year old python measuring approximately 1.5 metres in length, was believed to be seeking warmth, given the frequent rainfalls. It was later safely removed by authorities and released back into a natural habitat.

    Finding pythons in Thailand is not a new phenomenon. Two weeks ago a homeowner finally discovered the reason for his dwindling duck stock when he found a 3 metre long python lounging in his duck coop.

    The early morning python discovery led the homeowner, Somsak Metta, to call for emergency assistance. The incident took place today, at house number 131, in the Bang Kung village, Si Maha Phot district, Prachin Buri province.

    Somsak initially thought the ducks were being stolen when they started disappearing two at a time. On the morning of the incident, he discovered the culprit – a large python, in his duck coop. To read more about the story click HERE.

    In another bizarre python story one resident got bitten by a snake and it proved to be good luck. Sarayut Malachan had a rollercoaster of luck. After purchasing some lottery tickets and boiling up some snake eggs to eat, he was attacked by a large python. While recovering from the vengeful snake bite, he discovered he won the lottery. To read more on the story click HERE.

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  • Phaya bung magic strikes again as lottery hopefuls in Thailand conjure winning numbers

    Phaya bung magic strikes again as lottery hopefuls in Thailand conjure winning numbers

    For over three hours, lottery enthusiasts performed good luck rituals at the legendary Phaya Bung hole, leading to the emergence of three full numerical digits. This followed a successful prediction from the previous round, sparking a frenzy among hopeful lottery players for the draw on Saturday, September 15.

    Reports highlighted a bustling scene at Bunok Village, Yanri Subdistrict, Kabin Buri District, Prachin Buri Province, as residents sought lucky numbers from the ancient Phaya Bung hole ahead of the lottery draw on Saturday.

    The spot gained fame after numerous lottery hopefuls saw their dreams come true. The most notable prediction was a four-digit number 4-6-8-7, which coincided with the ending of the first prize number 478.

    The luck bestowed on many led to a surge in the popularity of the Phaya Bung ritual. The ceremony entailed lighting incense sticks, asking for good fortune, and dropping three sets of numbers 0-9 written on paper into the hole.

    After a wait of around three hours, the Phaya Bung hole yielded three pieces of paper with the numbers 0-9-5. The lottery hopefuls can now test their luck with these numbers.

    Picture courtesy of KhaoSod.

    In related lottery news two weeks ago, a TikTok video of a snake curled up in a strange position went viral and brought lottery enthusiasts to gather online, with over 2 million views. The video, posted by user sengdymanithep, shows the snake refusing to move, even when the person filming tries to shoo it away.

    The snake’s curled-up position bears a striking resemblance to several numbers, according to some viewers. Lottery enthusiasts were been quick to offer their interpretations of the snake’s position. Read more about the story HERE.

    Meanwhile, in the Prachin Buri province, locals dashed to a local temple to seek good fortune for last month’s lottery following the appearance of a peculiar red-mouthed turtle. Having never seen such a creature before, residents believe its unique features, mirroring the revered Buddha, imply promising future luck. To find out what happened click HERE.

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  • Thai netizens’ hearts warmed by heroic duo’s life-saving heart delivery, rain or shine

    Thai netizens’ hearts warmed by heroic duo’s life-saving heart delivery, rain or shine

    Thai netizens showered praise upon a dedicated traffic police officer and doctor for their successful efforts in delivering a life-saving heart organ from a hospital in Samut Sakhon province to Bangkok, despite heavy rain and severe traffic jams.

    The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated, as a heart can remain viable outside the human body for no more than four hours. The entire process of transporting the organ to the awaiting recipient and performing the heart transplant had to be completed within this time frame.

    On the evening of September 11, a medical professional from the Organ Donation Centre of the Thai Red Cross reached out for assistance from the traffic police officers to facilitate the delivery of a vital heart from Samut Sakhon Hospital to Siriraj Hospital in Bangkok.

    The distance between the two locations is about 40 kilometres and takes about one hour to drive. However, there was heavy rain and traffic jams during that time, so an ordinary trip with the hospital’s vehicle might put the heart at risk.

    Six traffic police officers responded to the call and rushed to the hospital for the operation. A police sub-lieutenant Sakchai Krasaesarn responsible for riding a motorcycle to send the doctor and a heart in a container to Siriraj Hospital.

    Meanwhile, the remaining four traffic officers, including Police Sergeant Major Siwa Jitfan, Police Sergeant Major Ploy Nuengmatcha, Sergeant Major Watcharanon Kongsinjiraporn, Police Sergeant Kittiphum Paengbutdee, and Police Sergeant Panyasin Pabao, rode ahead to clear the path.

    The team successfully delivered the heart to the hospital and saved the life of the awaiting patient. ThaiRath reported that this marked the 73rd successful heart delivery executed by the traffic police.

    The traffic police also encourage people to donate organs as there are more than 6,000 patients across the nation waiting for organ transplants.

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  • Chiang Mai Airport plans massive expansion to accommodate 16.5 million travellers

    Chiang Mai Airport plans massive expansion to accommodate 16.5 million travellers

    Chiang Mai Airport is set to table its expansion proposal to Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin during his scheduled visit this weekend. The airport’s director, Wijit Kaewsaitiam, revealed that the Thai Cement Manufacturers Association (TCMA) is set to spearhead the construction of the terminal’s first phase.

    The extension plan is aimed at significantly increasing the airport’s capacity, allowing it to accommodate over 16.5 million travellers annually, a huge leap from the current eight million. The airport also intends to ramp up its flight operations to 30 flights per hour, effectively doubling its existing capacity.

    Wijit also noted that the airport’s operating hours would be extended to operate 24 hours a day. This is to facilitate a higher frequency of international flights, especially those originating from Europe.

    “The terminal project is aligned with the strategic plan of the Airports of Thailand and Chiang Mai’s provincial development plan.”

    The first phase of the terminal will take approximately three years to complete and is expected to commence operations in 2029. Additionally, there are considerations for the construction of another airport in the province.

    Prime Minister Srettha’s visit to Chiang Mai is scheduled for September 15-17, following his tours of the North East and the South.

    On Sunday, September 17, he is expected to engage with locals living in tambon Mae Hia of Muang district in Chiang Mai. This area lies adjacent to the airport and will be affected by the introduction of night flights. Discussions with executives from Chiang Mai Airport are also on his itinerary.

    Two weeks ago the 61 year old prime minister made known his plan to revitalise airports in secondary cities, which has been warmly received by tourism operators in Nakhon Ratchasima. The airport revitalisation proposal, aimed at driving up tourist arrivals and stimulating the economy, was announced last month. Read more about the story HERE.

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  • Bangkok Gems fair dazzles with record-breaking success

    Bangkok Gems fair dazzles with record-breaking success

    The 68th Bangkok Gems and Jewellery Fair, which recently concluded, surpassed all anticipated outcomes. The Fair took place at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) from September 6 to 10 and welcomed almost 40,000 attendees hailing from 117 countries, a notable 44% surge compared to the previous event, according to Phusit Ratanakul Sereroengrit, the director-general of the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP).

    The fair was particularly appealing to international participants, with India, Myanmar, China, Sri Lanka, the United States, Japan, Pakistan, Vietnam, Russia and Australia making up the top ten countries represented. Throughout the five-day event, the estimated trade value hit 3.3 billion baht, surpassing the initial target.

    In addition to drawing a sizeable crowd, the fair also piqued the curiosity of the global jewellery industry. Over 1,100 leading exhibitors from 21 countries, both from Thailand and abroad, operated more than 2,400 booths.

    Sumed Prasongpongchai, director of the Gem and Jewellery Institute of Thailand (GIT), expressed his satisfaction with the event’s success, attributing it to the collaboration between the DITP and GIT, as well as the strong cooperation from allied organisations both domestically and globally.

    The success of this event is the result of collaboration between the DITP and GIT, as well as strong cooperation from allied organisations both domestically and internationally, he said.

    The fair was not just Asia’s most comprehensive gems and jewellery trade show but also served as a platform for international trade networks. Special activities like networking receptions and business matching events contributed to the Fair’s ongoing business value. The fair also featured jewellery designs from Thai designers in two exhibitions, The Jeweller, and The Magnificent 40-Year Journey of Brilliance, accentuating the grandeur of the Thai gem and jewellery industry.

    This event’s success underscores Bangkok Gems’ significance and Thailand’s standing as a global hub for the gem and jewellery trade and manufacturing, Sumed explained.

    The two organisers revealed their preparedness for the upcoming editions, confirming that the Bangkok Gems & Jewellery Fair would be held twice in 2024. The 69th event is scheduled for February 21-25, 2024, and the 70th for September 9-13, 2024, both at the same location.

    Reservations for the next editions are now open, and potential attendees can get further details by calling 02 634 4999, extension 639. The organisers encourage interested parties to reserve their spots promptly to avoid missing out on the next event.

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  • Bangkok’s Khlong Toei to host ASEAN’s largest sustainability expo in 2023

    Bangkok’s Khlong Toei to host ASEAN’s largest sustainability expo in 2023

    Experience the heart of sustainability in Bangkok’s Khlong Toei District: SX 2023, ASEAN’s premier gathering. Mark your calendar for a journey to the future of sustainability, as the spectacular Sustainability Expo 2023 (SX 2023) unfolds at the Prestigious Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC) from September 29 to October 8.

    SX 2023’s director, Tongjai Thanachanan, briefed the press about the event’s fourth annual occurrence and the philosophy it aims to promote: Good Balance, Better World. It aims to shed light on sustainability trends and innovative practices and pay tribute to His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua for his ongoing commitment to royal projects designed to enhance the well-being and contentment of Thai citizens.

    The Sustainability Expo 2023 (SX 2023), proudly themed Sufficiency for Sustainability, pays tribute to the profound Sufficiency Economy Philosophy of the late and revered His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great (Rama IX). This profound ideology guides us towards a future built on self-sufficiency and ecological balance.

    Thai Beverage, in collaboration with four prominent partners – Frasers Property, PTT Global Chemical, Siam Cement Group (SCG), and Thai Union Group – stands at the forefront of hosting SX 2023, an event that promises to be an inspiring showcase of sustainable living and forward-thinking practices.

    The 10-day event is poised to draw a substantial audience, with an estimated 320,000 attendees anticipated. More than 100 organisations, 500 regional and global sustainable business networks, and 250 guest speakers have been extended invitations to take part.

    SX 2023 will be divided into five zones: SEP Inspiration, promoting ideas based on the sufficiency economy philosophy; Better Me, teaching attendees about harmonious cohabitation with people from different generations; Better Living, showcasing leading companies’ activities and projects centred on a clean environment and circular economy; Better Community, advocating for equality; and Better World, an art exhibit centred around sustainability.

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  • American man faces dilemma as Thai girlfriend’s parents demand 1 million baht dowry

    American man faces dilemma as Thai girlfriend’s parents demand 1 million baht dowry

    An American man asked netizens for advice on what to do after his Thai girlfriend’s family demanded a million baht dowry, known as sinsod in Thailand. He said he loved her very much but was not a foolish farang.

    The American shared his story on the social media platform Reddit yesterday, September 12. The man began by explaining that he was dating a Thai university student from a province in the Isaan region of Thailand. He expected that his girlfriend did not make much money from her career after graduation but her parents are middle class and own a shipping company.

    The parents asked the foreign man to give them 1 million baht as a dowry, half of which would go to his fiancée after the wedding ceremony and the other half would be kept by the parents for safekeeping.

    The American added that the amount was not negotiable whereas his girlfriend believed that the amount was reasonable because they had to show the dowry during the wedding ceremony.

    The foreign man concluded his post by stating that he would be departing Thailand in two weeks and might not return, leading him to decide to end the relationship.

    The post garnered over 300 comments from Reddit users. Some individuals online suggested that the dowry served as a form of security for the woman, as her parents might have been concerned that a foreigner would eventually abandon her. Others believed that the parents simply wanted to ensure that the man could provide for their daughter.

    Some advised the man to end the relationship, as he might end up having to provide even more for the woman and her family in the future. However, the majority of netizens recommended that he should approach his girlfriend and her parents honestly, informing them that he would not pay the dowry, rather than leaving without any explanation.

    A top comment under the post was from a user who claimed to be half Thai and half Australian.

    “There is a stereotype among Isaan people that Western foreigners are wealthy and marrying one will bring you and your family a better life. So, if the assumption is that you, the potential husband, is rich, then the sinsod is sort of the first step in your commitment to take care of her and her family”.

    The Thai-Australian man also advised the American man to refuse the payment as it was a red flag that the man would have to pay the bills for her and her family forever.

    Another foreign man asked a similar question on Reddit in March. The man said his girlfriend had jokingly asked him for a million baht dowry. He wanted to know if he would get it back and if the amount was too much.

    A Thai woman answered his question by saying that she was about to marry her Irish boyfriend and that she had not asked him for a dowry. Her father, who was a policeman, eventually accepted the condition, even though he did not like it.

    In Thai culture, dowry is mostly seen as a way to show a good image and the financial status of the family. The bigger the dowry paid to the bride the more he is accepted by the family.

    However, a lot of the younger generation does not prioritise the amount of dowry on top of their dream wedding anymore, but some of their conservative parents and relatives still care. Read the full story here.

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  • Search intensifies for mentally disabled teen lost in Thung Salaeng Luang forest

    Search intensifies for mentally disabled teen lost in Thung Salaeng Luang forest

    The fate of a 17 year old boy with a mental disability, who has been lost in the Thung Salaeng Luang forest for four days, remains unknown. The search operation is being intensified, with the discovery of a common route previously used by lost individuals. Aerial search teams from the 11th Division of the National Park Department are waiting for clear skies to deploy paragliders today.

    Sompong Homsanit, the District Chief Officer of Wang Thong, along with Tossaporn Paphakul, Chief of the National Park Division, Seksan Lomplaeng, Chief of the Conservation and Resource Protection Division, and rescuers from Prasat Boonyathan Station, are amongst those coordinating the search for Veerayut Yabooch, also known as Sam.

    Since September 9, they’ve been searching for him but have yet to find him.

    A team of more than 20 officials has been divided into two groups to search for him. An aerial search team from the 11th Division of the National Park Department has been grounded due to poor weather conditions. Previously, a group of five villagers went to search for the teenager, who was lost in the forest. However, all five villagers ended up getting lost as well. Fortunately, they had a phone with them and were able to contact the operation centre, allowing officials to safely rescue them. However, Veerayut is still missing, reported KhaoSod.

    Daeng Chaichana, a relative of the teenager, who was once lost in the Makrut forest in 2020, revealed that Veerayut went to the forest with another villager to collect forest products.

    That villager returned earlier and told Daeng and other relatives that Veerayut had returned home from the forest. It was later discovered that Veerayut hadn’t returned home, prompting them to alert the village headman and start another search.

    The Makrut forest in Wang Nok Aen subdistrict, Wang Thong district, Phitsanulok province, adjacent to Thung Salaeng Luang National Park, is familiar to most villagers who supplement their income by collecting forest products. Despite their familiarity with the area, some villagers have been lost due to heavy rainfall altering the forest’s appearance.

    Previously, four people were lost for five days, making headlines in May 2020. This required officials to conduct a thorough search on land and air before they could be safely rescued from the forest.

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  • Thai men caught for 10 million baht motorway CCTV system shutdown theft

    Thai men caught for 10 million baht motorway CCTV system shutdown theft

    Two men were nabbed by the police in Chon Buri for stealing power cables from the Pattaya–Rayong motorway, an act that led to the complete shutdown of the CCTV system along the inter-provincial highway last month. The arrested individuals, 35 year old Anulak Obchoo, and 31 year old Traiphop Buahom, were caught in tambon Huai Yai of Bang Lamung district in the early hours of today.

    The duo had been named in arrest warrants issued by the Pattaya Court. Upon their arrest, the police discovered around 40 kilogrammes of copper, power cables measuring nearly 100 metres, and cable cutters from their residence.

    In the previous month, the police intercepted a gang in the act of stealing cables from the same motorway in tambon Nong Prue of Bang Lamung district. A 38 year old Lao man, Xammao Boutakeo, was apprehended during the operation, while the rest of the gang members managed to evade arrest.

    The theft resulted in approximately 10 million baht worth of damages, as it led to the CCTV system’s failure along the entire 32 kilometres of the Pattaya-Rayong (Map Ta Phut) motorway, the police reported.

    Xammao, the arrested Lao man, implicated the two Thai men as his superiors. Anulak allegedly confessed to the police that their gang had conducted around 50 similar thefts from the motorway in Chon Buri and Rayong provinces. The gang would then sell the copper found within the cables to scrap shops, earning about 20,000 baht each time.

    The police noted that another member of the gang remains on the run, reported Bangkok Post.

    In related news, The Royal Thai Highway Department calculated that for the year 2023, public property theft including power cables, electricity transformers, and other traffic signal equipment, amounted to a staggering loss of more than 30 million baht (US$852,043). Read more about the story HERE.

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  • Rangers seize riverine treasure trove: Meth stash dumped in daring escape

    Rangers seize riverine treasure trove: Meth stash dumped in daring escape

    A considerable haul of over 250,000 methamphetamine pills was seized by army rangers on the Mekong River’s shoreline in the district of Ban Phaeng, Nakhon Phanom province, as three smugglers made a hasty escape. The drugs were found stashed in sacks which were callously abandoned by the fleeing perpetrators.

    Acting on a tip-off about an impending drug transaction, the paramilitary rangers set up an ambush at the riverbank in the Ban Phaeng district. In the early hours of today, they sighted three individuals hauling two bulging sacks near Phaeng Tai village, reported Bangkok Post.

    Upon being confronted and ordered to halt for an inspection by the rangers, the trio’s response was swift and predictable. They hastily jettisoned the sacks and absconded, disappearing into the night. A subsequent search of the discarded sacks revealed a startling find: 129 packages containing a total of 258,000 methamphetamine pills.

    Following the seizure, the narcotics were promptly handed over to the local law enforcement at Ban Phaeng police station.

    Three weeks ago, in a massive crackdown on drug trafficking, Chiang Rai Police Force seized nearly two million meth pills in two major cases. From October 1, 2022, to July 19, 2023, the Region 5 Provincial Police intercepted more than 90 million meth pills and confiscated property worth 453 million baht.

    The announcement was made today, by a team comprising senior officers from the Region 5 Provincial Police and policy analysts from the Office of the Narcotics Control Board.

    The first case took place in the jurisdiction of the Chiang Rai City Police Station, where one suspect was apprehended with 200,000 meth pills. The incident occurred on August 18, around 11.40pm.

    The suspect, acting as a courier, had parked a vehicle near the Mong Kao Lang village in Mae Fa Luang district, Chiang Rai. To read more click HERE.

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  • Dolphin tragedy: Tangled in net, washed ashore in Chon Buri

    Dolphin tragedy: Tangled in net, washed ashore in Chon Buri

    A dolphin carcass was discovered today washed up on the shores of Bangsaen beach, near Laem Thaen roundabout, in Chon Buri. The 2 metre long, 50 kilogramme animal had a fishing net entangled around its tail, suggesting it had been dead for approximately two to four days.

    Amornsak Saksaensilp, a 33 year old member of the Sea Patrol Volunteers, relayed that he was alerted to the dolphin‘s presence by a tent operator earlier that day. He believes that the net around the animal’s tail disrupted its balance while swimming, leading to difficulties in feeding, and ultimately resulting in its death.

    Amornsak urged fishermen to exercise more responsibility in their practices to prevent similar incidents in the future, reported KhaoSod.

    Kittipong Traibun, a 56 year old tourism expert from Chon Buri shared that the sea around Bangsaen, Wonnapa Beach, Laem Thaen, and behind San To Shrine, has been investigated by authorities for cleanliness. He revealed that on September 11, the sea was found to be clear and odourless.

    The cause of the greenish hue in the sea was identified as a blue-green algae bloom, which deprived the sea of oxygen and caused fish to die. However, he assured us that the Bangsaen beach is now back to normal, clear and odourless, and invited tourists to return for a guaranteed enjoyable experience.

    Three weeks ago, an injured dolphin was discovered stranded at Thai Mueang, a beach located north of Phuket. The incident occurred yesterday, with locals initially trying to help by pushing the marine creature back into the sea. However, within an hour, the dolphin had returned to the shore.

    Immediately sensing the urgency, the locals contacted the authorities at Khao Lampi-Hat Thai Mueang National Park for professional help. Park officers found the dolphin, a male and of the striped variety, to be 206 centimetres long and weighing 54 kilogrammes. To read more click HERE.

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  • Health supplement scams sizzle online as FDA flags revoked claims

    Health supplement scams sizzle online as FDA flags revoked claims

    The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified three health supplement products advertising overblown claims on e-marketplaces despite their licences being revoked. The products, found in advertising online, claim to control sugar levels, burn fat and decrease hunger.

    The FDA today disclosed the results of their surveillance of health product advertisements on e-marketplaces. They identified three products: 1. Mix Oil Oriji, a food supplement product (Veeric brand) with the food registration number 70-1-27160-5-0205, claiming properties such as controlling sugar and cholesterol levels, fighting free radicals, alleviating symptoms of ageing, nourishing eyes, bones, nails, and hair, nourishes nerves and brain, helps sleep better, reported KhaoSod.

    The second product is a food supplement known as Korse with the food registration number 13-1-12560-5-0044. This product claims to accelerate fat burning, reduce hunger, trap fat, reduce accumulated fat, and lower cholesterol. The third product is another food supplement with the food registration number 76-1-17557-5-0135. This product advertises properties such as easy fat burning, dissolved fat, perfect waist, reduced appetite, reduced snacking, transforming a pork figure into a slim one, no heart racing, no dry mouth, and no yo-yo effect.

    Upon fact-checking these claims, it was discovered that they were falsely advertising the benefits, quality, or properties of food products, misleading consumers unjustly. They were not licensed and thus were ordered to suspend advertising and legal action has been taken against those involved.

    Upon checking the food registration numbers of the three products, it was found that they were revoked by the manufacturers on June 27, 2023, September 14, 2022, and October 18, 2021, respectively.

    The FDA will continue to monitor the sale of these products in the market. If the sale of a product with a label stating a production date after the cancellation of the number is found, it will be considered the production and sale of counterfeit food.

    Offenders will be subject to imprisonment or fines. Consumers are warned to be cautious in purchasing these products for consumption.

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  • Fake love, real trouble: Thai man’s romance scam unravels

    Fake love, real trouble: Thai man’s romance scam unravels

    Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) officers arrested a Thai man for operating a romance scam by using a fake social media profile of an attractive foreign man to deceive a Thai woman.

    A Thai woman filed a complaint to the police at the end of last year. The victim reported that the scammer, called Roland, contacted her via Instagram before subsequently shifting to WhatsApp. They started a long-distance relationship, and the man expressed his desire to give her a gift.

    The woman explained that the foreign man informed her that he would send her jewellery and money. He urged her to pay a delivery fee, taxes, and other charges in advance and would pay back to her later. The woman transferred the alleged fees to the scammer 19 times leading to the loss of over 1 million baht.

    The victim never received the gifts and decided to report the issue to the police.

    The police conducted a further investigation into the case and discovered that the bank account was issued under the name of a 25 year old Thai man named Arun. Officers managed to arrest Arun on Monday, September 11.

    Arun was arrested at his home in the Chalerm Prakiat district in the central province of Saraburi. He denied the allegation, alleging that he was not the mastermind behind the scam. He said that he too was also a victim who was lured into insuring a bank account for a scammer.

    Arun initially faces two charges including:

    • Section 343 of the Criminal Law: committing public fraud. The penalty will be imprisonment of up to five years, a fine of up to 100,000 baht, or both.
    • Section 14(1) of the Computer Act: importing forged data into the computer system in a manner that is likely to cause damage to that third party or the public. The penalty will be imprisonment for up to five years and a fine of up to 100,000 baht.

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  • Supernatural near-drowning ordeal: Ghost tells Thai woman to commit suicide

    Supernatural near-drowning ordeal: Ghost tells Thai woman to commit suicide

    A Thai woman in the central province of Samut Sakhon survived a near-drowning incident in the Sanamchai Canal and alleged afterwards that a ghost had compelled her to attempt suicide by leaping off a bridge.

    Footage captured by a security camera at a restaurant along the canal revealed the incident at 11am yesterday. The woman was seen struggling to swim and almost drowned. Fortunately, a group of men rushed to her aid and successfully rescued her before transporting her to a hospital.

    Following the improvement of the victim’s condition, her relatives decided to investigate the reason behind her bridge jump. The woman’s response stunned them as she claimed that a mysterious man dressed entirely in white had coerced her into leaping.

    According to her, the man waved to her while she was riding her motorbike and she parked it to approach the ghost, before losing consciousness. The sole voice the woman could recall was the man uttering…

    “I want you to die. I want you to die…”

    The woman said she was confused when she woke up in hospital because she did not have any health issues or any thoughts of suicide before. She strongly believed that she was being manipulated by a ghost.

    After the story was reported to the public, another woman, Onuma Tapianthong, stepped forward to share her spooky experience connected to this event.

    Onuma stated that she and her mother were travelling by car and when they reached the bridge, she observed the man in white attire standing on the electricity pole at about 9.30am on the incident day.

    As it was unusual for a person to stand in that manner, she was surprised and asked her mother if she noticed, but her mother denied seeing the ghost and decided to return to the bridge to investigate, yet found nothing.

    After learning that another woman also saw the man, Onuma said she got goosebumps and decided to share her ghost suicide experience with the media. Onuma also shared footage from her car dash cam featuring a conversation with her mother.

    In the footage, Onuma could be heard questioning her mother about the presence of the man, but her mother repeatedly denied seeing anything.

    Urban legend may have contributed to the supernatural encounter witnessed by the two women. The Sanamchai Canal and its surroundings carry a spooky story as some Thai Internet users revealed on social media.

    Netizens explained that the place used to be an isolated spot in the past, so some people came to the area to end their lives. The netizens also added that many children reportedly drowned in the canal and several fatal boat accidents were reported in the canal.

    If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai), or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress, or depression. Seek help.

    https://www.tiktok.com/@finfesph1xh/video/7277481616853732613?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=7250314880846513671

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  • Call for help: Mobile phone shields Thai woman from ex-boyfriend’s bullet

    Call for help: Mobile phone shields Thai woman from ex-boyfriend’s bullet

    A mobile phone became an unexpected life-saving shield for a Thai woman when her ex-boyfriend shot her in the Isaan province of Chaiyaphum. Thanks to the phone shield the woman only suffered a mild injury near her waist.

    The victim, 24 year old Ratda, who remains at Khon Sawan Hospital, recounted the shooting to police and reporters. According to Ratda, the shooting occurred to her while she was riding a motorcycle back home.

    Just as she was about the arrive home, her 29 year old ex-boyfriend Thongbon fired two shots at her. One gunshot missed while another struck her mobile phone and penetrated her body. She fled the scene on her motorcycle to seek help from neighbours before filing a complaint at Khon Sawan Police Station.

    Ratda stated that she clearly saw that the gunman was Thongbon. She disclosed that she had been in a relationship with Thongbon for four months and previously shared a home with him. However, Thongbon always physically abused her so she ended the relationship a month before the shooting.

    Police officers reviewed Ratda’s neighbour’s security camera and discovered Thongbon sipping coffee and smoking near the neighbour’s house. The shooting was also recorded in the footage. After the attack, Thongbon and his friend fled from the scene.

    At present, authorities are actively pursuing Thongbon and his associate, determined to bring them to justice.

    Unfortunately, this incident is not an isolated case in Thailand. In June, another fatal shooting caused by jealousy was reported in the southern province of Phatthalung. A 16 year old teenager manipulated a friend into murdering his 17 year old ex-girlfriend The gunman shot the victim 10 times in her stomach.

    Similarly, in March, a Thai man shot his ex-girlfriend in the head in the central province of Nakhon Pathom after the woman refused to forgive him and take him back.

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  • Bangkok bids farewell to Police Major Siwakorn Saibua in moving temple service

    Bangkok bids farewell to Police Major Siwakorn Saibua in moving temple service

    In Nakhon Pathom, a police funeral service took place yesterday at the Wat Phra Si Mahathat temple in Bangkok’s Bang Khen district, marking the solemn farewell of Police Major Siwakorn Saibua. The fallen highway police officer was tragically gunned down after declining a corrupt promotion proposal from a local village official. The sorrowful event was attended by immediate family, close relatives, and fellow officers from the Thai police force.

    Pol. Maj. Siwakorn was allegedly assassinated by the right-hand man of an influential sub-district headman in Nakhon Pathom Province, Praween Chanklai, also known as Nok. The gruesome act was purportedly carried out as Pol. Maj. Siwakorn refused to bypass the standard promotion procedures to elevate Nok’s relative to a higher rank within his division.

    The funeral ceremony commenced at 10am and was presided over by Pol. Gen. Torsak Sukwimon, the deputy police chief of the Royal Thai Police. Pol. Maj Gen. Jaroonkiat Pankaew, the acting commander of the Highway Police Division, shared with reporters that the loss of Pol. Maj. Siwakorn was a profound blow to the police force.

    He conveyed that every officer is mourning his tragic death and vowed to ensure that justice will be served. Police General Wachira Yaothaisong, the supervisor of Pol. Maj. Siwakorn who made the fateful call inviting him to the party he was murdered at, already committed suicide after the corruption became public.

    The acting commander also assured that officers present at the crime scene where Pol. Maj. Siwakorn was fatally wounded and would face appropriate consequences. The investigation into the crime is being led by Pol. Gen. Surachate “Big Joke”Hakparn, the deputy national police chief.

    A significant concern that arose amidst the investigation was a Facebook page that made bold declarations of breaking into a prison to free Nok. Addressing this issue, Pol. Maj Gen. Jaroonkiat informed that the relevant officers are investigating the matter. He, however, expressed doubts about the credibility of such claims, suggesting that the page might have been created explicitly for attention-seeking motives.

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  • Ex-PM Thaksin’s special treatment risks unrest, warns senator

    Ex-PM Thaksin’s special treatment risks unrest, warns senator

    A cautionary note has been sounded by a senator who has advised the government to exercise equal treatment for all prisoners. The senator has expressed concerns that the special treatment accorded to Thaksin Shinawatra, the former prime minister who has been convicted, could potentially invite future complications for the government.

    The warning was issued on Tuesday during the second day of parliamentary discussions focused on the government’s policy statement. Thawil Pliensri, the senator, revealed that 74 year old Thaksin spent roughly 13 hours at Bangkok Remand Prison before he was shifted to the Police General Hospital.

    Thaksin has been receiving medical care in Royal Suite 1401, a private room on the 14th floor of the Maha Bhumibol Rachanusorn 88 Phansa Building. This was after he experienced symptoms of chest pain, hypertension, and low oxygen levels in his blood on the night of August 22, the same day he returned to Thailand and was incarcerated.

    Having spent over 20 days in the hospital, Thaksin has been permitted to receive up to 10 visitors daily. Furthermore, he has been granted a royal pardon that has significantly reduced his eight-year prison sentence to just one year.

    This has led Thawil to call on the government to ensure equal treatment for all prisoners.

    “I implore the government to adhere to its principles and uphold judicial standards. The privileges Thaksin is being accorded may cause discontent among many, which may lead to unforeseen incidents in the future.”

    In the meantime, Praphrut Chatprapachai, a legal expert and former candidate for the Democrat MP, has urged the government to take legal action against Thaksin. This comes in response to Thaksin’s violation of Section 112 of the Criminal Code, otherwise known as the lese majeste law.

    According to Praphrut, Thaksin gave a media interview in South Korea in 2015, which had implications related to the monarchy. This led General Udomdej Sitabutr, the former deputy defence minister and secretary-general of the now-defunct National Peace Keeping Council, to instruct the Judge Advocate General’s Department to sue Thaksin.

    The lawsuit was initiated by the Office of the Attorney-General (OAG). The Criminal Court accepted the case for trial in 2015 and issued an arrest warrant for Thaksin.

    As a result, Praphrut is now urging Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to direct the police to continue the legal action against Thaksin. He warns that if the government fails to take action, it could expose a loophole that may be exploited by groups or individuals to demand the release of other inmates who violated Section 112.

    He warned that This could potentially lead to calls for amendments to Section 112 in the future, something many candidates and parties argued for in the recent elections.

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  • 65 executives summoned as DSI investigates bid-rigging ties to construction tycoon ‘Nok’

    65 executives summoned as DSI investigates bid-rigging ties to construction tycoon ‘Nok’

    The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has summoned executives from 65 companies following concerns over their potential involvement in bid-rigging with construction businesses owned by Praween Chanklai, also known as Nok. Nok was recently arrested in the Muang district of Nakhon Pathom, following the murder of Police Major Sivakorn Saibua, an officer of Highway Police Division 2.

    Nok’s close aide, Thananchai, known as Nong Tha Pha Manmak, was identified as the gunman. However, Nok has denied any involvement, refuting claims that he ordered his subordinate to kill Pol. Maj. Sivakorn.

    Nok’s construction business, initially started by his father, a former headman of Tambon Takong, includes the P Raweekanok Construction Company and the P Phatanarungrod Construction Company. These companies have been successful in securing road, building, and bridge construction projects as well as offering canal dredging and rental services in Nakhon Pathom and several neighbouring provinces.

    Police Captain Surawut Rangsai, director of the DSI’s Division for Offences Relating to the Submission of Bids to Government Agencies, revealed that these companies may have violated regulations on bid submissions for government agency projects. Financial analysts’ investigation has brought to light abnormal account balances in Nok’s companies when compared to the annual statements submitted to the Department of Business Development.

    The companies have won bids on over 1,300 government projects since 2015, valued at over 70 billion baht. This is in stark contrast to the companies’ assets, reportedly worth 100–200 million baht. The DSI division has also issued warrants to 65 companies that bid on highway projects in 2017 for questioning the following Monday.

    In addition, investigations have unearthed a potential financial transaction between Nok and the gunman, after several police at the party where the police officer was murdered were discovered to have made or received unusually large transfers, raising suspicions of payment for the shooting.

    Meanwhile in Nakhon Pathom, a police funeral service took place yesterday for the victim of Nok’s plot at the Wat Phra Si Mahathat temple in Bangkok’s Bang Khen district. It marked the solemn farewell of Pol. Maj. Siwakorn Saibua for his family and close friends. The fallen highway police officer was tragically gunned down after declining a corrupt promotion proposal from Nok.

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  • Phony police husband: Imposter arrested, wife in the dark for two years

    Phony police husband: Imposter arrested, wife in the dark for two years

    Police officers arrested a fake cop in the central province of Lop Buri yesterday. The fake cop’s wife had been completely unaware of his deceit throughout their two-year marriage.

    Locals in the Pattana Nikhom district of Lop Buri reported their suspicions about the true identity of Rachata Jadejiranit to Manao Whan Police Station. The locals stated that Rachata was always in police officer uniform and carried a gun in public areas. Rachata also claimed he was a commander of the Provincial Police Region 6 as well.

    Rachata’s name failed to appear on any official police department records, prompting officers from the Manao Whan Police Station to initiate an operation to expose his identity.

    Officers lured Rachata to meet them at a coffee shop where he was arrested. A police officer used a fake Facebook profile of an attractive woman to talk with the 42 year old fake cop and expressed an interest in meeting him in person to offer congratulations on his alleged promotion.

    Rachata came to the coffee shop in a police uniform armed with his gun. Officers then revealed themselves and placed him under arrest.

    Rachata confessed that he saw the police as an honourable occupation. He always wore the uniform at a wedding ceremony or funeral to garner respect from the hosts and participants. There was no evidence to suggest that he had ever employed the uniform for criminal purposes.

    The police questioned Rachata’s wife, named A, about her husband’s act, and she insisted that she was not aware he was a fake cop. She married Rachata in 2021 in the Pitsanuloak province but she relocated to live with her sister in Lop Buri after the marriage.

    A explained that her husband later moved to live with her saying he was suspended from work due to an unspecific misconduct charge. Rachata added that he would be back on duty on October 1. A admitted to not pressing him for further details and was unsuspecting of his true status.

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  • Thailand’s government proposes swift minimum wage increase to 400 baht

    Thailand’s government proposes swift minimum wage increase to 400 baht

    Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin announced that the government will be pushing for a swift increase in the minimum daily wage to 400 baht, in a bid to assist workers grappling with rising living costs. The decision will be reached through negotiations between the government, employers, and workers to agree upon a reasonable amount.

    The prime minister shared the plans during a Parliament debate on the government’s policy statement. The wage increase is part of the government’s economic stimulus measures, designed to bolster the financial well-being of Thailand’s workforce.

    During the election campaign, the promise to increase the daily minimum wage to 600 baht by 2027 was a key pledge by the ruling Pheu Thai Party. The prime minister, who also holds the position of Minister of Finance, highlighted the country’s low unemployment rate, which stands at a mere 1%.

    Despite this, the 61 year old prime minister acknowledged that the demand for labour remains high, necessitating a reliance on migrant workers. He emphasised the need to protect the rights and dignity of these workers and to provide them with welfare and safety. To this end, the government plans to establish a one-stop service centre to streamline their documentation process.

    Srettha also outlined additional economic stimulation measures, including new tourism initiatives and reduced energy prices for households and logistics operators. He pledged to direct the Energy Ministry to take immediate steps to lower utility bills, reported Bangkok Post.

    Responding to criticism from Sia Jampathong, a Move Forward Party MP who expressed disappointment over the lack of a detailed labour policy, the prime minister reassured that the government was not blind to the struggles of the people. He mentioned that the government’s relief measures extend to various transport operators, including motorcycle taxi drivers, taxi drivers, and delivery riders.

    The prime minister also addressed the longstanding complaints from taxi drivers about their unchanged starting fares of 35 baht. Recognising their lack of coverage under labour laws, the prime minister has tasked Minister of Labour Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn with investigating the issue.

    Moreover, the government intends to ensure fair rates for taxi drivers who operate both motorcycles and cars. To assist these drivers, the Transport Ministry will explore the feasibility of developing a government-owned ride-hailing application.

    Sia Jampathong urged the prime minister to expedite the implementation of a 600-baht daily minimum wage increase and a 25,000-baht salary for graduates with bachelor’s degrees. He pressed for clear timelines for these initiatives.

    Suchart Chantaranakaracha, the vice-chairman overseeing labour affairs at the Federation of Thai Industries, noted that any wage increase must first be approved by the tripartite national wage committee, which includes representatives from various state agencies, employers, and employees. Factors such as inflation, labour productivity, employers’ ability to pay wages and economic growth must all be taken into account.

    Currently, the daily minimum wage varies across provinces, ranging from 328 baht to 354 baht. The most recent wage increase took effect in October of last year, with the highest daily rate of 354 baht approved for Chon Buri, Rayong, and Phuket.

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  • Power play exposed: Thai electricity sold to Myanmar drug lord in shocking corruption scandal

    Power play exposed: Thai electricity sold to Myanmar drug lord in shocking corruption scandal

    Move Forward Party spokesperson Rangsiman Rome slammed corruption within the Thai government system. after he discovered the selling of Thai electricity to a Myanmar drug lord. Rangsiman exposed a super deal has been struck involving two former police chiefs and a police aviation unit.

    The 31 year old politician also questioned whether Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin would dare to take legal action against former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha.

    Rangsiman took to Twitter to voice his concerns. He stated that after listening to the policy statement by the incoming prime minister, he found the solutions he proposed to be very vague. He is worried that these policies seemed designed to appease coalition partners rather than to tackle serious issues head-on.

    Rangsiman highlighted several examples of corruption within the government system. He mentioned the police ticketing system, which forces police to engage in corrupt practices such as setting up extortion checkpoints and threatening business operators to pay a protection fee. This system also promotes a culture where police are under the thumb of those in power, and where positions can be bought.

    He also referred to the unfair treatment of lower-ranking police officers. He cited the practice of transferring officers across units to unfamiliar and undesirable locations. Those who refuse these transfers are subjected to disciplinary action, often sidelined for up to nine months.

    Rangsiman brought up a corruption case within the police aviation unit, where former Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha had approved the use of central funds to pay off nearly a billion baht of debt for the National Police Office, contravening the law and causing damage to taxpayers and the nation.

    Rangsiman challenged Prime Minister Srettha to reveal his policies to tackle these issues and to pursue legal action against Prayut. He questioned whether the PM would have the courage to do so, or whether he would be too afraid to upset coalition partners.

    The final issue Rangsiman addressed was human trafficking, which had led to the persecution of good police officers. These officers had successfully tackled human trafficking networks but were then severely threatened by unseen dark powers to the point of having to seek refuge abroad.

    Rangsiman concluded by stating that these issues exposed the rot within the governing system, a system that had not been scrutinised by those in power. This led to widespread corruption, a weakened police structure, a rising death toll among police officers, and an influx of drugs and international criminals. He stressed the urgency for those in power to address these issues and bring about change for the betterment of the country, reported Sanook.

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  • Trust No One: Thai cyber squad nabs seven Chinese crypto culprits in Bangkok

    Trust No One: Thai cyber squad nabs seven Chinese crypto culprits in Bangkok

    Thai Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) carried out a “Trust No One” operation in pursuit of crypto scammers and managed to arrest seven Chinese nationals operating crypto fraud and money laundering.

    In the first episode of the operation, the CCIB conducted raids at six suspicious locations in the Sri Nakarin neighbourhood of Bangkok and arrested two Chinese nationals including a 31 year old man named Xao Xian Su and a 25 year old woman named Qi Yi Yee.

    The two Chinese nationals reportedly used fake social media profiles to perform investment scams luring victims into investing in a defraud crypto business. The total damage caused to victims across the world was over 10 billion baht, with 2.5 billion baht within Thailand alone.

    An officer conducted further operations until they found another two Chinese nationals who were involved in the crypto scam.

    Officers later discovered that there were more members of the gang still at large. The rest of the gang members were responsible for money laundering. They transferred the fraudulent money into luxury properties in Thailand.

    The police then conducted raids at 25 locations in Bangkok yesterday and arrested three more Chinese scammers including 54 year old Zhang Han Lin, 29 year old Zhou Lu, and Liu Jiayu. Zhang Han Lin was also subject to an arrest warrant issued by Chinese authorities.

    The first two criminals were arrested at a luxury hotel in the Rama 9 neighbourhood, while another one was arrested in Soi Sukhumvit 101 in the Phra Khanong neighbourhood of Bangkok.

    At the luxury hotel, officers seized 4 million bahr in cash, deeds of ownership for three luxurious condominium units valued at 44 million baht, three luxury cars, a bank account, a tablet, designer brand bags, and fake passports.

    The authorities revealed they intend to return the seized assets, valued at over 600 million baht, to the victims. Additionally, the remaining confiscated assets will be gradually repatriated to victims both within Thailand and across the globe.

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