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- Thaksin Announces New Anti-Drug Task Force Led by PM Paetongtarn
Picture courtesy: Sanook
In a significant move to combat Thailand's continuing drug challenges, a new task force is being established under the leadership of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra.
This was announced by former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra during a Pheu Thai Party meeting, which took place on a journey to Hua Hin in Prachuap Khiri Khan. The seminar aimed to bolster the party's strategies and enhance leadership effectiveness.
Thaksin, whose previous tenure was marked by assertive drug policies, shared that his daughter, Ms Paetongtarn, would spearhead the task force, underscoring the Shinawatra family's enduring political presence.
Speaking at the seminar, he addressed essential issues, noting that some of his past initiatives, such as affordable housing, remain crucial.
This task force comes in response to escalating concerns over drug-related issues, which Thaksin remarked are more severe now than during his premiership. Reflecting on past measures, he recalled his administration's vigorous anti-drug campaigns, suggesting a warning to current drug dealers about renewed governmental pressures.
The collaborative effort will include Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who will work alongside police and provincial entities to intensify drug suppression. Thaksin implied that failure to meet objectives could lead to the reassignment of officials, highlighting the gravity of their mission.
During the early 2000s, Thaksin's government took a hard-line approach from February 1, 2003, with extensive drug crackdowns resulting in over 43,000 arrests.
This period also drew criticism for human rights concerns; notably, around 2,500 people were reportedly killed across these campaigns, with many deaths suspected to involve government forces.
Provinces like Chiang Mai and Khon Kaen saw substantial success in limiting drug activities, driven by coordinated efforts between government and local levels.
Despite widespread criticism from human rights advocates over the high number of deaths attributed to state actions, Thaksin stands firm on the necessity of robust enforcement to achieve public safety and order.
As this renewed anti-drug initiative under the Pheu Thai leadership gains momentum, it remains to be seen how the policies will be executed and whether they will balance efficacy with respect for human rights, given the dynamic socio-political environment in Thailand, reported Bangkok Post.
-- 2024-12-14
14 December 14 20241346191 - UN urges Thailand to decriminalise sex work for healthcare access
Photo courtesy of KhaoSodby Puntid Tantivangphaisal
The United Nations (UN) has recommended that Thailand should decriminalise sex work to ensure equal access to healthcare services and integrate victim support. This announcement was made during a press conference at the Renaissance Bangkok Ratchaprasong Hotel, where the Working Group on Discrimination Against Women and Girls discussed the state of women’s and girls’ rights in Thailand. This marks the UN’s first visit to Thailand following an invitation from the government.Heina Lou and Ivana Krstic, representatives of the working group, assessed the progress and challenges in achieving gender equality and eliminating discrimination during their visit. Their discussions covered various aspects of the lives of women and girls, particularly those facing intersecting forms of discrimination. Meetings were held in Bangkok, Mae Sot, Chiang Mai, and Hat Yai, indicating a broad geographical engagement.
The report highlighted that Thailand is at a pivotal moment to become a regional exemplar for gender equality. The UN praised advancements in women’s and girls’ rights, noting improvements in legal and institutional frameworks, especially in education, healthcare, and employment.
However, concerns remain about significant policy enforcement gaps that impede achieving equality. The UN suggested that national mechanisms for women’s issues should receive financial and personnel support, with gender-sensitive budgeting being a constitutional commitment.
Krstic pointed out that technology contributes to sexual violence through cyberbullying and the harmful dissemination of personal information.
“We see technology as a part of the issue, leading to cyberbullying and harmful data exposure. It’s a challenge for the government to prevent harassment and exploitation of women.”The recommendation to decriminalise sex work stems from a desire for fair healthcare access and victim integration. Despite this, practical obstacles such as inadequate staffing at support centres hinder equal access to essential services, reported KhaoSod.
The UN’s call for decriminalisation is intended to remove barriers for sex workers in accessing health services without fear of legal repercussions. This approach would also necessitate a holistic support system for victims, promoting equal service access. The move aligns with global shifts towards recognising sex work as legitimate and prioritising workers’ rights and well-being.
Source: The Thaiger
-- 2024-12-14
14 December 14 20241346193 - Thai Police to Crack Down on Crime During New Year Festivities
Picture courtesy: Daily News
As part of an aggressive new directive, Thai immigration authorities are gearing up for a major crime suppression effort during the upcoming New Year festivities.
Responding to a government policy aimed at ensuring safety and boosting tourism, police are coordinating nationwide operations to maintain order as the country prepares to welcome an expected influx of up to 120,000 visitors daily.
In a recent meeting at Suvarnabhumi Airport, Police Major General Phanumet Boonyarak, acting chief of the Immigration Bureau, emphasised the urgency of bolstering security measures at airports across Thailand.
The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra's call for immediate action on tourism, which includes a visa-free policy for 93 countries and territories that has significantly increased international arrivals.
Since the start of 2023, over 28 million foreign visitors have entered Thailand, with Chinese, Indian, South Korean, Russian, and Japanese nationals topping the list.
Given the soaring numbers expected during the holiday period, additional immigration officers and advanced biometric systems are being deployed to ensure swift processing and prevent delays.
In tandem with facilitating travel, authorities are set to intensify a crackdown on illegal activities among foreign nationals, targeting those who breach Thailand's immigration and labour laws.
Ongoing operations will engage in rigorous checks from December 11 to 17, aiming to dismantle any groups involved in unlawful gatherings or disruptive behaviour.
Recent efforts have already borne fruit with the arrest of a Myanmar national in Samut Sakhon, caught with unlicensed firearms. Officials issued a stern warning to foreigners involved in illegal activities, stressing zero tolerance and the potential for serious repercussions.
With streamlined procedures and enhanced workforce readiness, the Thai Immigration Bureau is committed to delivering a safe and welcoming environment for all travellers, ensuring a smooth experience while upholding international standards, reported Daily News.
-- 2024-12-10
10 December 10 20241345804 - Hong Kong master’s student duped into Thai nightmare
Photo courtesy of Jelly Tse via SCMPby Puntid Tantivangphaisal
A Hong Kong master’s student was swept into an international scam that cost her over HK$500,000 (approximately 2.2 million baht) and led her to an alarming detour to Thailand. This unprecedented case pushed Hong Kong police to seek Interpol’s help, marking the first time a victim was lured overseas.The victim, identified as K, a 22 year old student from Yunnan, China, recounted how scammers impersonated mainland Chinese and Hong Kong officials, accusing her of money laundering.
“The sham public security official and I talked on the phone for eight hours, leaving no room for me to think,” she revealed, recalling how the fraudsters even wore official uniforms during video calls.
Believing her bank accounts were frozen and fearing worse repercussions, K travelled to Guangzhou to pay 500,000 yuan in “caution money.” The scammers then instructed her to flee to Thailand for safety.
The nightmare deepened when the fraudsters contacted K’s parents, claiming she had been kidnapped in Bangkok. They demanded a ransom of 10 million yuan (46.9 million baht), prompting her parents to alert Hong Kong police.In a high-stakes operation, Hong Kong police worked with Interpol, Thai police, and the Chinese embassy to locate K, who had been instructed to move between hotels in Bangkok. She was found three days later, shaken but safe, reported South China Morning Post.
Superintendent Theodora Lee of Hong Kong’s Anti-Deception Coordination Centre warned, “Law enforcement officials will never demand bank transfers or tell you to cut off contact with your family. These are classic scam tactics.”
This case highlights a sharp rise in university student scams, with losses in 2024 already exceeding HK$1.42 billion, more than double the previous year. As students navigate new cities and academic pressures, scammers exploit their vulnerabilities.
Source: The Thaiger
-- 2024-12-14
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14 December 14 20241346194 - Social Media Buzz: The Mystery 'Bell' at Traffic Lights
Picture courtesy: Daily News
Social media platforms are abuzz with theories about a peculiar white device resembling a bell, spotted atop traffic lights across intersections. Many wondered if it was a new type of traffic camera.
Recently, a user named "totoonline" ignited curiosity on the popular Thai forum Pantip with a post titled, "What is this pole in the middle of the road? Is it a camera?" featuring a photo of the mysterious white equipment.
The device, mounted on poles specially or directly on traffic signals, left many puzzled due to its unconventional appearance.
The post fuelled speculation, with some users initially assuming it to be a traffic camera. However, sceptical observers noted the absence of visible camera lenses. Others theorised it could be a traffic signal sensor, controlling lights based on vehicle presence—an idea seen in Japan.
Eventually, a link shared in the discussion led users to WHA GROUP's website, providing clarity. The device is part of a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system used primarily for monitoring and managing fire prevention equipment like fire pumps and alarms, reported Daily News.
This indicates its role may vary, depending on installation purposes, potentially extending beyond mere traffic control.
Sources: Pantip.com, WHA GROUP.
-- 2024-12-13
12 December 12 20241346069 - British man’s flight home to recovery after horror crash in Thailand
Picture of Andy Davis courtesy of the Davis familyby Bob Scott
A British man who suffered life-changing injuries while working in Thailand has returned home after an appeal raised nearly £20,000 (880,000 baht) for a medical repatriation flight.Andy Davis from Stone, Staffordshire, had his left leg amputated and was hospitalised with a shattered pelvis and torn bladder, following a car crash on an island off Krabi last month.
The 33 year old British man’s friend Mike Pugh, set up a Go Fund Me page to raise money towards bringing Davis back to the UK.
He is now being cared for at the Royal Stoke University Hospital and is “very happy to be home,” however he continues to fight an infection and is waiting for further surgery on his pelvis and bladder.
Nearly 500 people donated to the fundraiser which ultimately led to Davis being able to fly home earlier than expected.Pugh said the donations contributed towards the £28,000 medical repatriation costs, with Davis’ family paying the remaining amount.
Picture of Andy Davis courtesy of the Davis family
He said his friend’s prompt return to the UK “essentially has saved his life as he could have started to deteriorate if he was still out in Thailand.”Davis started teaching English as a foreign language in 2016, travelling to Thailand, Peru, Mexico, and Ecuador.
Most recently, he had been working to set up teaching positions for other Brits to travel and teach English as a foreign language.
Pugh, who visited his friend at Royal Stoke on Saturday, said the 33 year old was “significantly better” and feeling “much more positive,” since returning home.
Davis is still fighting an infection which is delaying further treatment but he has been able to start physiotherapy, said Pugh.“He was over the moon, because he had been able to sit up in bed and turn to put his other foot on the ground.”
Pugh added that it was likely his friend would remain in hospital over Christmas while he awaited further surgery.
ORIGINAL STORY: British teacher’s tale takes a ‘Krabi’ turn after leg loss in crash
A British teacher is at the centre of a heartbreaking tale after he lost a leg in a dreadful accident in Thailand.
Andy Davis, from Walton in Stone, Staffordshire, is fighting for his life after a catastrophic road smash on a serene island near Krabi on November 8.
The 33 year old, who has dedicated his life to setting up teaching gigs for British teachers keen to spread the English language abroad, is now facing a gruelling battle for recovery after a horrific crash.
Davis’ selfless work has touched countless lives but it’s his own life that hangs in the balance now. With injuries so severe his leg had to be amputated immediately, the Brit’s situation is dire. To add to his woes, he’s grappling with a shattered pelvis, an infection, and a torn bladder, leaving him in urgent need of several major surgeries.
Rallying to Davis’ aid, his family have kicked off a heartfelt donation appeal. They need to gather a whopping £25,000 (1.1 million baht), and so far, the outpouring of generosity has amassed £11,500 (506,000 baht).
The funds are crucial for life-saving surgeries and to transfer the injured British man from a small hospital in Krabi to a more equipped facility in Bangkok. His family stress that without this move, his chances of survival dwindle, as he battles multiple infections that could lead to even more amputations.
Life-saving
On their GoFundMe page, his family made a plea for help, reported the Shropshire Star.
“These surgeries will be life-saving. For Andy, this transfer is urgent. It’s just the beginning of the daunting medical bills we’re facing, aiming to stabilise him before planning his journey back home. Your support could ensure Andy comes home safely.”
Andy’s lifelong friend, Mike Pugh, shares just how dire the situation is. Describing his mate of 20 years as “incredibly laid back” and “a genuinely nice guy,” Pugh highlights Davis’ inability to sort insurance or healthcare, as he drifts in and out of consciousness.
Pugh believes the support flooding in is a testament to his friend’s character, with donations pouring from across the globe, proving the immense impact he made as he taught in Thailand, Peru, Mexico, and Ecuador since 2016.
For those touched by Davis’ story, donations can be made at gofund.me/f7fb938b. It’s a race against time to bring the injured Brit back to the UK, and every bit of assistance counts.
Source: The Thaiger
-- 2024-12-11
11 December 11 20241345886 - Watch closely: Thaksin Shinawatra's potential political return
Picture courtesy: Thai Rath
Former MP Theptai Senapong has voiced concerns about Thaksin Shinawatra's possible return to power. Posting on his social media platform, Theptai highlighted Thaksin's recent statements in Ubon Ratchathani, where Thaksin urged people to support the Pheu Thai Party. He promised a revival of happiness and prosperity through new policies.
Thaksin, now 75, hinted at a continued role, stating, "I have money, time, and strength. I will still serve the Thai people without holding a position." This, according to Theptai, underscores Thaksin's ambition to once again influence the country's governance.
Theptai suggests that Thaksin realises his daughter, Paetongtarn, might struggle to lead effectively due to her lack of experience, despite his guidance.
Contrary to his previous claims of stepping away from politics to care for his grandchildren, Thaksin appears to be steering political decisions and maintaining influence within the Pheu Thai Party.
Theptai Senapong. Picture courtesy: Siam Rath
Theptai's remarks imply that Thaksin intends to address Thailand's current issues, positioning himself as the necessary figure to lead the country through its challenges. Observers are now speculating whether Thaksin will manoeuvre his way back to the premiership, reported Siam Rath.
-- 2024-12-13
13 December 13 20241346079 - British man’s Thai-high’ trip goes up in smoke at Manchester customs
Picture courtesy of JustParkby Bob Scott
Another British man has been nabbed in a high-stakes arrest after being caught returning through Manchester Airport customs with two suitcases full of cannabis from Thailand. The alleged British drug mule, Ahmed Sohail, who claimed he went to Thailand to lose some weight, ended up losing much more than he bargained for.Stopped by eagle-eyed Border Force officials, the 26 year old drug trafficker was carrying two suitcases that piqued their suspicion. While Sohail insisted he had been on an indulgent eight-day jaunt in Bangkok, a scan revealed his luggage contained not just holiday mementoes but 40 kilogrammes of the class B drug along with a crafty Apple tracking device.
Prosecutor Sophie Kenny detailed the find.
“After his arrest on August 21 this year, x-ray machines were used to search the suitcases. Within both of them were multiple vacuum-sealed packages of a herbal substance. It was tested and found to be cannabis.”
Manchester Evening News reported that Sohail confessed to being caught in a web spun by others and admitted to a role in the dodgy operation without any financial gain. Despite the gravity of the situation, he received a suspended sentence.
In his defence, barrister Benjamin Kaufman argued that Sohail was merely a pawn, manipulated by more seasoned criminals.
“He played a limited function. He appears to have been taken advantage of by those more criminally sophisticated than him.”
Kaufman added that Sohail was deeply worried about his mother’s stage 4 cancer diagnosis.
Picture of Manchester Airport courtesy of Business Traveller
Judge Suzanna Goddard KC, handing him an 18-month suspended sentence, described him as “intelligent but foolish and naïve.”“In life you are faced with choices and in the future, you need to make the right choice.”
Sohail, from Cargate Walk, Manchester, must now complete 200 hours of unpaid work and undergo 10 days of rehabilitation activity requirements.Sohail’s drug bust is not an isolated case. There has been several similar high profile cases of British nationals being apprehended trying to smuggles cannabis through Manchester Airport.
A British dad of three late last month was sentenced to two years behind bars for an audacious attempt to smuggle nearly £100,000 (4.4 million baht) worth of cannabis from Thailand.
The 42 year old British man, gripped by grief and desperation after the death of his girlfriend, confessed he took the illicit gamble in hopes of using the cash to reunite with his estranged children.
In another related case last month, a down-and-out drug mule took a gamble to clear his debt to his own mother – and lost big-time at Manchester Airport.Dean Pharoah, who owed cash to his mum, tried to smuggle over £200,000 (approximately 8 million baht) worth of cannabis into the UK after a holiday in Thailand. But UK Border Force officers had their suspicions and swooped as he passed through the Nothing to Declare channel, putting an end to his high-stakes plan.
Meanwhile, Netflix star Olga Bednarska incredibly escaped a long prison sentence despite being nabbed at Manchester Airport smuggling cannabis worth £150,000 (6.75 million baht) through customs.
The star of Netflix’s hit reality show Too Hot to Handle, found herself entangled in a scandalous drug-smuggling affair after Manchester Airport customs officers intercepted the 27 year old, as she returned from Thailand, and uncovered nearly 40 kilogrammes of cannabis stashed inside her luggage.
Source: The Thaiger
-- 2024-12-09
9 December 09 20241345728 - Thailand police crackdown on pornographic content production
Photo via KhaoSod
By Ryan Turner
Thai police launched a new operation dubbed Rabbit Slaughter: Suppressing Sex Creators, targeting both Thai and foreign nationals involved in producing and distributing pornographic content globally.
The operation seeks to dismantle a network including pornographic content involving Thai women.
Police, led by Saruti Kwangsopa, initiated the crackdown, resulting in the arrest of several individuals. These include 40 year old Benjamin Jon Wilkinson, a British national; 34 year old Andrei Gerbennikov from Russia; and 48 year old Volker Matthias Graul, a German national.
Others arrested were 32 year old Zvezdan Stojanov from Serbia; 26 year old Sangthian, 30 year old Thanasin, and 36 year old Rattana, all Thai nationals.
The arrests were made under warrants issued by the Criminal Court for charges related to the commercial production and distribution of pornographic material.
The charges stem from allegations that these individuals produced and distributed explicit content within Thailand, using the country as a base for their operations.
The material was reportedly sold worldwide, violating Thai law and tarnishing the country’s image.
This initiative aligns with an urgent policy directive from Police General Kittirat Phanphet to combat transnational crime using Thailand as a hub for pornographic distribution via online platforms.
According to Saruti Kwangsopa, foreign sex creators have exploited Thailand’s tourism backdrop, encouraging Thai women to participate in sexually explicit acts, sometimes filmed in iconic locations like tuk-tuks, a popular mode of transport for tourists.
The operation also allegedly involved Thai and transgender individuals and included collaboration with a well-known Thai sex creator. The investigation led to the issuance of warrants and subsequent arrests in various locations, including Bangkok, Chon Buri, and Suvarnabhumi.
During interrogations, most suspects confessed, leading to their transfer to the investigative division for legal processing. Investigators discovered a significant amount of child pornography in one suspect’s possession, prompting an extended investigation aimed at rescuing child victims.
If any further evidence of child exploitation is uncovered, additional charges related to human trafficking will be pursued, reported KhaoSod.
9 December 09 20241345748 - Thai woman caught smuggling 6 million baht of cocaine into Japan
Photo via Facebook/ ครบเครื่องเรื่องญี่ปุ่นby Petch Petpailin
A Thai woman was arrested at Kansai International Airport in Osaka after she smuggled 6 million baht worth of cocaine into Japan.Local news agencies in Japan recently reported that the 23 year old Thai woman, whose identity remains undisclosed, was arrested at Kansai Airport after 760 grammes of cocaine were found in her possession. The drugs were worth approximately 27 million yen, or around 8 million baht.
The suspect concealed the drugs in her backpack but could not evade the attention of officials. Japanese security officials became suspicious after noticing that she brought very few belongings with her, carrying only one backpack.
Officials examined her bag and found unusual stitching with yellow thread in a suspicious location. Channel 3 reported that the officials later discovered the cocaine hidden in a secret pocket crafted with the yellow thread.
The woman is said to travelled from Malaysia, transiting through China before arriving in Japan. Japanese police have not yet disclosed further details about the case, nor have they confirmed whether the woman admitted to her crime.The police stated that further investigations are underway to identify other suspects involved.
Thai drugs japan
Photo via Facebook/ ครบเครื่องเรื่องญี่ปุ่น
In a related incident reported in July, a Thai woman named Phatcharin was arrested in Thailand for smuggling drugs into Japan via the same Kansai Airport. Japanese officials found Phatcharin and two other suspects hiding methamphetamine in their backpacks, but they were caught.The three were deported to Thailand after serving their sentences in Japan. However, they are also set to face punishment in Thailand, prompting police to search for and arrest Phatcharin. No further details were provided about the other two suspects.
Photo via Facebook/ ครบเครื่องเรื่องญี่ปุ่น
WorkPoint Today reported that Japan imposes severe penalties for drug-related offences. Anyone caught smuggling drugs into the country faces a prison sentence of at least 10 years and a fine of at least 3 million yen, or approximately 660,000 baht.While drug smuggling into Japan is not commonly reported in Thai news, there were several cases of drug smuggling to South Korea. Recently, a Thai woman was sought by police after tricking an innocent man into delivering drugs to South Korea on her behalf.
Another Thai woman was arrested in Thailand for smuggling drugs into South Korea. She was initially caught in South Korea and imprisoned for three months before being deported and arrested again in Thailand.Source: The Thaiger
-- 2024-12-12
12 December 12 20241346039
