The Customs Department recently auctioned off a seized Lamborghini, adding yet another chapter to a riveting saga of deceit and high-octane drama. (File photo: Somchai Poomlard) Seven customs officials have found themselves at the heart of a swirling controversy, accused of aiding supercar importers in dodging a whopping 897 million baht in duty fees by accepting grossly undervalued car evaluations. This bombshell accusation was unveiled by Niwatchai Kasemmongkol, the diligent secretary-general of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), who spoke out on Tuesday about the deep-seated irregularities surrounding the import of some very luxurious wheels. Between 2011 and 2014, two companies—Jubilee Line Co and Benznakarin Auto Group—were responsible for importing 29 blindingly fast Lamborghini cars, while Ferma Motor Co brought in 33 sleek Maserati vehicles. These companies seem to have been embroiled in what Niwatchai described as a grand scheme to import these dream machines with almost fairy-tale-like low valuations. This…
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Parit “Penguin” Chiwarak, the ever-spirited political activist well-known for his bold stance against Section 112, was seen donning a distinctive T-shirt voicing his opposition as he reported to the Nonthaburi police station on December 8, 2020. But now, the Criminal Court has issued a fresh arrest warrant for this defiant figure, given his conspicuous absence at a ruling in a lese-majeste case. Nicknamed Penguin, Parit faces a barrage of charges—nearly two dozen, to be precise—tied to alleged breaches of Section 112 of the Criminal Code, a law infamous for its stringent penalties involving offenses against the monarchy. Despite the gravity of the accusations, Parit remains out on bail, as confirmed by Thai Lawyers for Human Rights. This latest judicial decision was precipitated by a complaint from Nopadol Prompasit, a vocal member of a group self-proclaimed as the protectors of the monarchy. The complaint zeroed in on Facebook messages posted by…
Visitors examine building plans and models at a house and condominium fair in Bangkok in March. (Photo: Varuth Hirunyatheb) A caretaker senator has recently voiced concerns over the government’s controversial plan to increase foreign ownership of condominium units from the current 49% to a whopping 75%. This proposal, according to caretaker senator Somchai Swangkarn, could spell not just economic ramifications but also political turmoil that might threaten the prime minister’s position. On a Facebook post shared on Tuesday, Somchai Swangkarn emphasized that the policy of extending the foreign leasehold duration from 50 years to an incredible 99 years, alongside the increase in condominium ownership, smacks of a conflict of interest. He implies that these changes might overwhelmingly benefit property businesses with ties to cabinet ministers, including the Prime Minister himself, Srettha Thavisin. Not sparing any words, Somchai highlighted that the prominent property developer, Sansiri, has ownership links to Prime Minister…
Exotic Food Public Company Limited recently marked a memorable milestone with an exuberant celebration of its 25th anniversary, setting an ambitious goal to crown its Sriracha chili sauce as the world’s number one Thai sauce. For an impressive span of over 24 years, the company has been exporting Sriracha sauce under the revered Flying Goose brand, achieving unprecedented profit levels year after year. This jubilant celebration saw a gathering of top executives and international partners from over 30 countries, filling the atmosphere with lively chatter, warmth, and delightful fun. Mr. Jittiporn Jantarach, the diligent Managing Director of Exotic Food Public Company Limited, shed light on the company’s specialized approach in manufacturing and distributing an array of seasoning sauces, dipping sauces, curry pastes, and quintessential Thai culinary ingredients. Not stopping there, the company offers an enticing variety of ready-to-eat and semi-ready-to-eat delights like green curry, tom yum, and pad Thai. Boasting…
Soldiers meticulously inspected a staggering pile of methamphetamine pills abandoned by fleeing smugglers in the serene grounds of a temple. It unfolded like a scene from an action movie on a Monday night in Fang district, Chiang Mai. Amidst the unexpected chaos, one suspect, lurking in the shadows, was apprehended while the rest managed to slip away into the darkness. (Photo supplied by Panumet Tanraksa) In an impressive and audacious operation, soldiers from the Chaiyanuparb special unit intercepted approximately 1.6 million methamphetamine pills abandoned by the cunning smugglers. The event transpired during a tense chase in the Fang district late on Monday. Armed with credible intelligence, these dedicated soldiers ventured into the perilous border area upon learning that a group of five to six suspected drug smugglers was advancing from Myanmar. Under the cloak of the night, a vigilant patrol unit caught sight of a suspicious group of men heaving…
Turkish Airlines, the dazzling gem of skies, has once again soared to stellar heights, clinching the coveted title of Best Airline in Europe at the prestigious 2024 World Airline Awards. Often heralded as the Oscars of the aviation industry, this gala event unfolded in the grandeur of the historic Fairmont Windsor Park in London on 24 June 2024. Amidst a constellation of airline giants, Turkish Airlines shone brightest, bagging not just one but three illustrious accolades. Alongside the European crown, it celebrated victories in the World’s Best Business Class Catering and Best Airline in Southern Europe categories. These accolades echo the voices of countless travelers who participated in independent surveys conducted by Skytrax, affirming Turkish Airlines’ dominance in both Europe and Southern Europe. Such recognition underscores the airline’s relentless commitment to excellence, continually pushing the envelope to deliver a seamless and ultra-comfortable travel experience. Turkish Airlines’ culinary prowess was notably…
In an unfolding political drama, renowned activist Ruangkrai Leekitwattana has called for an investigation into Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin over alleged discrepancies in his asset declarations. The accusations suggest potential corruption, stirring the political pot in an already tense atmosphere. Mr. Ruangkrai has taken his concerns to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), urging a thorough probe into what he claims are omissions of wealth and previous high-ranking positions held by Mr. Srettha. Taking office as both Prime Minister and Finance Minister on September 5 last year, Mr. Srettha was legally bound to disclose his assets and previous roles. However, Mr. Ruangkrai asserts that there are inconsistencies between the submissions made on September 5 and a subsequent declaration on June 17. He sent his petition to the NACC via express mail service (EMS), and now the nation watches as this potential scandal unfolds. On June 17, Mr. Srettha provided an updated…
Mr. Chadchart Sittipunt, the dedicated and visionary Governor of Bangkok, graciously welcomed Dr. Takeharu Yamanaka, the esteemed Mayor of Yokohama City, along with the distinguished Yokohama City Executive Committee and representatives from the Japanese Embassy in Thailand. The occasion that brought these leaders together was none other than the much-anticipated BKK EXPO 2024, held at the picturesque Benjakiti Forest Park Museum, nestled in the vibrant Khlong Toei District. In an event that highlighted global cooperation, both the Governor of Bangkok and the Mayor of Yokohama captivated the audience with a profound and thought-provoking special lecture. The topic at hand was one that resonates deeply in today’s world: cooperation in sustainable development to achieve a net-zero greenhouse gas emissions society. Under the theme “City-to-City Cooperation towards Net Zero,” these leaders underscored the pivotal role that collaborative efforts play in shaping a greener, more sustainable future. The Governor of Bangkok extended a…
As part of its ongoing commitment to fostering creativity and innovation, Sansiri Public Company Limited, Thailand’s leading real estate brand and design powerhouse, is thrilled to unveil the “ARTIZEN” project. In celebration of its 40th anniversary, Sansiri is teaming up with celebrated national artists to create a one-of-a-kind platform for emerging talents in Illustration, Photography, Music Composition, and Product Design. This pioneering campaign, a first in Thailand, offers professional classes and unparalleled chances for winners to exhibit their work at Bangkok Design Week 2025 and gain international exposure through travel with the Sansiri team. Confident in the creative potential of the new generation, Sansiri is dedicated to catalyzing substantial economic value while nurturing the country’s future creators. Sriamphai Rattanamayoon, Chief Marketing Officer of Sansiri PCL, emphasized that Sansiri’s commitment lies in unlocking possibilities with a sharp focus on future design. With an impressive 40-year legacy, Sansiri is steering Thailand’s Creative…
Officials unearthed a startling discovery at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Sunday night, where bags of heroin were found stashed in the suspects’ suitcase. (Photo credit: Sutthiwit Chayutworakan) In the bustling province of Samut Prakan, a major bust sent ripples through the law enforcement community. Four individuals hailing from Hong Kong were nabbed at Suvarnabhumi Airport, allegedly attempting to smuggle a whopping 14 kilograms of heroin out of the country. Pol Lt Gen Panurat Lakboon, the determined secretary-general of the Narcotics Control Board, revealed that the quartet was captured thanks to a timely tip-off. He didn’t hesitate to drop some names either—Leung Wai Kit and Chun He Chow, specifically calling out Mr. Leung as a prime player in the illicit drug trade. It turns out, as Pol Lt Gen Panurat detailed, Thai and Hong Kong drug enforcement agencies had been tracking Mr. Leung and Mr. Chun. Intelligence suggested that the pair flew…