Over the past weekend, a significant police operation unfolded in the bustling heart of Bangkok, specifically targeting the insidious realm of illegal drug trade. Thirteen individuals found themselves apprehended in the vibrant Phra Khanong district, a hub known for its lively streets and eclectic mix of locals and tourists alike. Their crime? Selling illicit substances to tourists who meandered down the energetic thoroughfare of Sukhumvit Road. This crackdown, a part of a broader initiative to purge Bangkok’s inner-city areas of narcotic dealings, zoomed in on the lively Nana neighborhood — a district precariously nestled between Klong Toey and Watthana. According to Pol Lt Gen Santi Chaniramai, the illustrious commissioner of the Narcotics Suppression Bureau (NSB), this operation shone a bright light on the transnational nature of the drug trade in the city. Of the group rounded up, 11 hailed from various African nations, notably Nigeria and the Ivory Coast. Meanwhile,…
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In the vibrant theatre of Thai politics, where alliances are forged and fractured in the blink of an eye, the ever-controversial Thaksin Shinawatra has sparked yet another fervent debate. As echoes of political dissatisfaction reverberate across the nation, Thaksin boldly questioned the very motives behind the tumultuous political landscape, pointing fingers at his long-time adversary, Gen Prawit Wongsuwon. “Why initiate a coup at all?” Thaksin queried, his voice dripping with a mix of incredulity and exasperation. This question may not be new, but in the current milieu, it resonates more profoundly than ever. Cast your minds back to 2014, when the National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) unceremoniously dismantled the Pheu Thai Party-led government. At the helm of this upheaval was Gen Prawit, an influential figure who has navigated the murky waters of Thai politics with a steady, if controversial, hand. Thaksin argues that rather than succumbing to the…
The halls of Thailand’s Senate echoed with a resonant call for action as senators rallied around the cause of national security and the integrity of its visa policies. At the heart of the debate was the burgeoning concern over risks associated with the current visa-free regime extended to Chinese nationals. Spearheading this urgent appeal was Senator Pol Lt Gen Wanchai Ekpornpichit, whose poignant arguments struck a chord during the session chaired by none other than Senate Speaker Mongkol Surasajja. Originally designed as a beacon for a robust tourism economy, the visa-free policy seems to have morphed into an unintentional magnet for less savory visitors. Senator Wanchai did not mince words, illustrating how this well-intentioned policy has been manipulated by shadowy alchemists, namely nefarious Chinese crime syndicates, transforming Thailand into a clandestine hub for illegal operations. The senator emphasized the current vulnerabilities in immigration policies, urging for a meticulous overhaul, particularly…
MAHA SARAKHAM: In a spirited address to fervent supporters on Monday, the seasoned political figure and former prime minister, Thaksin Shinawatra, passionately debunked the critics of the government’s audacious proposal for a casino-entertainment complex. As detractors chanted, branding the development a mere casino, Thaksin countered their claims with fervor, accusing them of bending the truth. His argument: the ambitious venture was far more than what the nay-sayers claimed. According to Thaksin, gaming would be just a small portion of the allure, accounting for less than 10% of what the sprawling complex would offer. “Think beyond the dice and cards,” Thaksin implored, painting a vivid picture of a dynamic hub brimming with attractions that promise to ignite the local economy. The former premier declared that each site would generate no fewer than 20,000 jobs, offering workers secure livelihoods with enticing salaries of no less than 20,000 baht per month. In his…
As Thailand’s car production industry gears up for a transformative journey, the stakes have never been higher. Picture this: a bustling crossroads where traditional Internal Combustion Engines (ICE) and Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) face off in a dramatic showdown. The roadmap to Thailand’s automotive future is dotted with flashing signals, and the country is at a crucial intersection. Since time immemorial, Thailand’s automotive prowess has been synonymous with its thriving ICE sector. The streets have roared with the engines of vehicles crafted by local artisans and international giants alike, particularly the revered Japanese manufacturers, who have made Thailand their fortress of ICE production. However, as the world veers toward a sustainable future, the National EV Policy Committee finds itself fixing an intense spotlight on electrical alternatives. With the Prime Minister at the helm, the notion of pampering the ICE industry with a seven-year grace period has taken center stage, making…
In the heart of Chon Buri, a burst of jubilant celebration lit up the revered halls of a famous temple, as residents gathered to express their gratitude and revel in their newfound fortune. Yes, the lottery—the dream-kicking thrill ride—had transformed another visit to the temple of Luang Pho Yai into an unforgettable moment of triumph, tracing its origins back to January 17’s captivating draw. The winning numbers? A roll call of serendipity: 807779, flanked by the auspicious threes—699 and 961, not to forget the charming simplicity of the two-digit pal, 23. The roots of this luck splurge can be traced to an earlier rendezvous on January 1, when an electrifying symphony of firecrackers echoed through the air, heralding the numbers 79 and 083. Fast forward to today, January 20, and at the stroke of 11 a.m., the temple spectacle continues with Ramphoei, a 43-year-old local, strolling in with arms laden…
PTT Plc, the colossal titan of Thailand’s oil and gas landscape, finds itself at a pivotal crossroads, re-evaluating its roadmap through the bustling alleyways of logistics. Once entrenched in the cradle of petroleum, this national giant is now contemplating an adventurous foray into non-oil territories, eyeing fresh investment vistas and a revamp of its business persona in the ever-evolving logistics world. At the helm of this bold initiative is Chaya Chandavasu, the indefatigable Senior Executive Vice-President for Corporate Strategy at PTT. Chaya insists on a meticulous dissection of the competitiveness of PTT’s non-oil ventures before taking the plunge into this new business frontier. The cornerstone of this venture is Global Multimodal Logistics (GML), a dynamic offspring birthed in 2022, under the careful nurturing of Siam Management Holding Co., another thriving branch of the PTT family tree. GML is a brainchild crafted to resonate with Thailand’s ambitious 13th National Economic and…
In a story that underscores the tumultuous nature of relationships marred by distrust and possessiveness, a man in Thailand has finally surrendered to the authorities after a violent outburst directed at his wife and mother-in-law. The instigating factor? His wife consistently wearing stylish outfits to her workplace The accused, Thanakrit, found himself overwhelmed by an intense green-eyed monster every time his wife, Sujittra, stepped out looking her best. The 32-year-old Sujittra, who had endured two years in a relationship marked by frequent confrontations, sought refuge not in anonymity but in the digital embrace of social media empowerment. Her journey to safety from Chumphon to Bangkok was facilitated by a kind-hearted neighbor and culminated in the guidance of social media luminary, Guntouch “Gun” Pongpaiboonwet. Sujittra, burdened with the trauma from her previous marriage yet determined to shield her children, found herself trapped in a cycle of disputes with Thanakrit. The couple’s…
In the heart of bustling Bangkok, an extraordinary spectacle is set to unfold as Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn graces the Opening Ceremony of the Yaowarat Chinese New Year Celebration. This year, the event carries special significance, commemorating the 50th milestone anniversary of Thai-Chinese diplomatic relations on January 29th. Drawing the backing of numerous prestigious entities, including the Tourism and Sports Ministry, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), and an ensemble of dedicated local business operators, this annual festivity promises to be a grand celebration of cultural kinship. TAT Governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool expressed her excitement about this year’s event, highlighting its role as a beacon of Thai-Chinese unity and collaboration. Spanning January 29th and 30th, this year’s celebration promises an array of mesmerizing Thai-Chinese cultural performances, featuring artists from both lands. Imagine the streets, especially near the iconic Chaloem Phrakiat Arch, adorned with…
In a whirl of international intrigue, Yan Tianxi, a notorious figure sought by Chinese authorities for an elaborate public fraud scheme totaling approximately US$15 million, has been safely escorted back to his homeland to face justice. The hustle and bustle of Suvarnabhumi Airport bore witness to the dramatic climax of this cross-border tale on January 16, where Yan was formally handed over to the Shanghai economic police. This captivating saga brings to light the power of international cooperation and the long arm of justice. This particular fraud case is nothing short of riveting, with over 112 million yuan mysteriously disappearing into the hands of scammers. Yan Tianxi was at the heart of this deceptive web, alleged to have masterminded a fraudulent loan application scheme that fooled countless Chinese citizens. As the case unfolded, a Chinese court promptly issued an arrest warrant against Yan, marking him as a highly-wanted fugitive. The…