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THAI.NEWS - Thailand Breaking News

Pattaya Tourist Safety Boost: Pol Lt Gen Saksira Phuek-am Leads Anti-Scam Crackdown

CHON BURI: The allure of Pattaya is undeniable, its sandy beaches acting as a magnet for tourists seeking sun and adventure. But beneath the picturesque scenery, efforts are underway to ensure that visitors have a safe and enjoyable experience. The Tourist Police Bureau (TPB), alongside the embassies of South Korea, Ukraine, Russia, India, and Switzerland, has initiated a major crackdown on scams and criminal groups targeting tourists in this bustling resort city. Thursday’s pivotal meeting at the Tourist Police Division in Chon Buri was presided over by Pol Lt Gen Saksira Phuek-am, the TPB commissioner. The gathering aimed to draft comprehensive guidelines to bolster the safety and security of tourists—a thrust of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s tourism policy for the final quarter of the year. Their strategy emphasizes implementing free-visa measures to enhance the tourism potential of 55 provinces, with a firm focus on visitor safety. In an effort to…

Pol Lt Gen Saksira Phuek-am Leads Pattaya Safety Initiative Against Tourist Scams

Imagine yourself lounging on the golden sands of Pattaya beach, surrounded by the serene sound of waves crashing gently against the shore. Tourists from all corners of the world gather here, their worries melting away with the tropical sun. (Photo: Chaiyot Pupattanapong) In an effort to maintain this idyllic setting, the Tourist Police Bureau (TPB) of Chon Buri is collaborating with embassies from five countries to stamp out scams and nab 10 notorious criminal groups operating in the area. Pol Lt Gen Saksira Phuek-am, the stalwart TPB commissioner, led a crucial meeting on Thursday to set firm guidelines aimed at bolstering tourist safety in the bustling resort city. The meeting, held at the Tourist Police Division in Chon Buri, witnessed the participation of representatives from South Korea, Ukraine, Russia, India, and Switzerland. This gathering was part of Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s broader tourism strategy for the fourth quarter, where initiatives…

Fuel Smuggling Crackdown: Cross-Border Surveillance Initiatives between Thailand and Malaysia

In an effort to clamp down on contraband fuel trading, a team of plainclothes police carried out a thorough search of a pickup truck in tambon Thung Lung, located in Hat Yai district of Songkhla, close to the Malaysian border, on April 20, 2023. This tactical move comes as authorities intensify their efforts to combat fuel smuggling activities in the region. (Photo: Royal Thai Police) Meanwhile, across the border, Malaysian authorities are mulling over the idea of installing their own closed-circuit TV (CCTV) cameras at select petrol stations in the state adjacent to Thailand. This initiative aims to curb the sale of subsidized fuel to smugglers. The Kelantan branch of the Malaysian Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) is currently in discussions with various oil companies to equip petrol stations in border districts with these surveillance systems, according to a report by Bernama. Azman Ismail, the director…

Thanakit Jitareerat Investigates Scandal: Nonthaburi Hospital Director’s Affair Rocks Public Health Sector

Standing amidst a circle of agitated reporters, Thanakit Jitareerat, the vice-minister for public health, addressed a complaint that had just made waves in the serene town of Nonthaburi. The complaint involved alleged adultery between a public hospital director and a nurse. This particular scandal had more than a few eyebrows raised and left much to be investigated. The incident first came to light when social media advocate Gun Jompalang posted a video, fueling curiosity and concern. The unnamed hospital director, accused of having a scandalous affair with the nurse, fervently proclaimed his innocence on one point: he did not know that his paramour was still cohabitating with her husband. Nevertheless, he did admit to indulging in rough sex, which he claims, was with the full encouragement and consent of the nurse. As the wheels of bureaucracy turn, he has been reassigned from his original post at a tambon health promotion…

Interpol Hunt for Joe Pattani: Behind the Bold Oil Smuggling Heist from Chon Buri

Police and forensic science officers meticulously gathered evidence aboard the ‘Kamraingoen’ vessel, a ship that had undergone significant modifications and repainting. This vessel, along with two others, had been apprehended for oil-smuggling activities and was anchored at the Port of Songkhla on June 17. (Photo by Assawin Pakkawan) The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) is gearing up to issue arrest warrants next week for two individuals alleged to be behind the vanishing of oil-smuggling vessels from a police pier in Chon Buri earlier this month, according to a source on Friday. The suspects are identified as “Joe Namman Thuen”, popularly known as “Joe Pattani”, and a certain Mr. Lek, who is believed to be his manager. Mr. Lek had posted the 3-million-baht bail for the 28 crew members of the vessels following their mid-March arrest. The CIB also intends to enlist Interpol’s help by seeking red notices for the two main…

Noppadon Pattama Seeks US Help to Free Thai Hostages in Hamas-Israel Conflict

Noppadon Pattama, a Pheu Thai list-MP and the distinguished chairman of the House panel on foreign affairs, recently made headlines at parliament. In a heartfelt and serious bid, Mr. Pattama has turned to the United States, asking for their assistance in securing the release of six Thai nationals still held hostage due to the ongoing Hamas-Israel conflict. This plea was delivered to US Ambassador Robert F. Godec during a significant meeting with the House committee, where Thai-US relations and multifaceted cooperation were discussed extensively. During this crucial discussion, Ambassador Godec shared his deep sympathy for the tragic loss of Thai workers and the distressing situation of those still in captivity after the conflict that erupted last October. Displaying an empathetic stance, Mr. Godec was implored by Mr. Pattama to aid in the safe return of the remaining Thai hostages to their homeland. This heartfelt request underscores Thailand’s desperate wish to…

MUJI Siam Discovery Reopens: Explore Bangkok’s Ultimate Lifestyle Destination at 1,300 Sqm Store

MUJI, the celebrated international lifestyle brand from Japan, is thrilled to unveil the grand re-opening of its Siam Discovery store, now expanded to an impressive 1,300-square-metre retail paradise. Set to become Bangkok’s ultimate destination for lifestyle essentials, this reimagined store is designed to captivate both local and global style aficionados with over 5,000 daily lifestyle offerings. The grand opening is set for Friday, June 21st, 2024, on the 2nd floor of Siam Discovery: The Exploratorium. Mr. Akihiro Kamogari, Managing Director of MUJI Retail (Thailand) Co., Ltd., proudly announces the MUJI Siam Discovery store’s grand reopening. This latest big-sized model store sits right in the heart of Bangkok’s bustling shopping district, renowned for drawing high-spending clientele. Since its original launch in 2017, the initially modest 400-square-metre store has been immensely popular among Thai and international customers for its minimalist design, exceptional quality, functionality, and affordability. Recognizing this growing demand, MUJI seized…

Bright Vachirawit Chivaaree’s Meteoric Rise: From Thai Drama Star to Global Music Sensation

The enchanting Thai superstar “Bright” Vachirawit Chivaaree has swiftly emerged as an electrifying presence in the entertainment world. His magnetic performances both on-screen and on stage have shot him to international acclaim. With standout roles in shows like 2gether, F4 Thailand: Boys Over Flowers, and his latest cinematic venture Love You to Debt, Bright’s charm knows no bounds, broadening his popularity far beyond Thailand’s borders. Key Details Name: Vachirawit Chivaaree Nickname: Bright Born: December 27, 1997 Nationality: Thai Known for: Singer and actor Instagram: @bbrightvc The phenomenal success of the 2gether series catapulted Bright and his co-star Win Metawin Opas-iamkajorn into the limelight, resulting in an exciting tour across Asia. Highlighting their immense popularity, Bright and Win held their first joint concert under the exhilarating title Side by Side Bright Win Concert in Japan on June 17th and 18th, 2023, much to the delight of their fans. Following this blockbuster…

Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit’s Mission: Preparing for a Political Triumph in Thailand’s 2027 Elections

Progressive Movement leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit is on a mission—his third attempt with a political party—to secure a groundbreaking victory and form a government in the next general election. In an electrifying interview on “Breaking the Cycle,” the billionaire-turned-politician radiated confidence, predicting that the party, which finds its roots in the now-defunct Future Forward Party, will triumph in the 2027 national poll. At 45, Thanathorn seems unfazed by past hurdles. When he discussed the future, he underscored the need for three electoral cycles to cement his party’s position in government. “2027 is the year we will be fully ready,” he declared, eyes gleaming with determination. “It doesn’t matter what our name will be: Future Forward, Move Forward, or even a third party.” The interview was a reflective yet forward-looking conversation filmed after Thanathorn and other Future Forward executives faced a harsh political ban in 2020. He and his dedicated comrades established…

Skypark Lucean Jomtien Pattaya Wins Top Awards at IPAX Asia Pacific 2024: A Triumph in Luxury Living

Skypark Lucean Jomtien Pattaya, a luxuriant condominium venture by Lunique Real Estate Company Limited and a distinguished part of the Banyan Group, proudly announces its remarkable achievements at the IPAX Asia Pacific International Property & Hotel Awards 2024. The prestigious accolades were presented to the project on May 30th and 31st at the illustrious Bangkok Marriott Marquis Hotel Queen’s Park. Under the leadership of Ms. Uradee Kunkiratiyut, CEO of Lunique Real Estate Company Limited, and Mr. Taj Phitakraxanti, Managing Director of TANDEM ARCHITECTS (2001), this project has reached new heights in excellence, clinching awards for “Best Residential High Rise Architecture Thailand” and “Mixed Use Development Thailand”. Garnering the award for “Award Winner Mixed Use Development Thailand” at the IPAX Asia Pacific International Property & Hotel Awards 2024, Skypark Lucean Jomtien Pattaya stands out due to its ground-breaking design that flawlessly melds residential, commercial, and recreational spaces. Spanning over an impressive…