Barkar Nash – Page 69

1.3m items pawned in 2024, with gold, mobile phones topping list

On: March 16, 2025

Described: 16 Mar 2025 at 13: 34

Parents seek low interest rate loans at a state-run pawn shop in Bangkok on 11 May 2022 as they struggle to raise money for children's school uniforms, text books and other necessities ahead of the new academic year. (File photo: Varuth Hirunyatheb) — Kids are attempting to raise money to pay for their children’s school clothing, text books, and other essentials ahead of the new academic year by requesting low interest rate loans from a state-run pawn shop in Bangkok on May 11, 2022. ( Photo: Varuth Hirunyatheb)

According to the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, state-run lenders lent more than 20 billion ringgit to Indian citizens in 2024 as golden and mobile devices remained the most popular stolen goods.

According to Warawut Silpa-archa, the Minister of Social Development and Human Security, 46 state institutions across the nation last year accepted about 1.33 million bits of stolen goods, of which 97.5 % were golden, red gold, and gemstones.

In 2024, Thaiand’s economy grew 1.6 % in Q1, 2.2 % in Q2, 3.0 % in Q3 and 3.2 % in Q4, respectively. However, an economist cautioned&nbsp that it seemed that the GDP information and the real financial situation did not come hand in hand.

According to the secretary, the express pawnshops issued 3, 190 cards in the electronics group, with mobile phones being the most frequently purged item. Fans, fridge, rice cookers, microwaves, electronic plates, and vacuum cleaners were also included. &nbsp, &nbsp, &nbsp,

In the group “power resources and land tools,” there were 3, 064 products.

” Some people pawned the equipment they used for their professions or to make a living, such as grinders, energy planers, metallic cutting tools, water pump, pesticide sprinklers, and electric &nbsp, producers,” said Mr. Warawut.

Office of the Government Pawnshop has just added a fresh pawn shop to Bangkok, increasing its tree count by 47.

Currently, the interest rates at public pawn shops are 0.25 % per month for a loan of less than 5, 000 baht, 0.75 % for a loan of 5, 001-10, 000 baht, 1 % for a cash loan of 10, 001-20, 000 baht, and 1.25 % for 20, 001-100, 000 baht.

Summer storms, hail, lower temperatures predicted

By: Barkar Nash

On: March 16, 2025

In: South-East Asia

Discussed: 16 Mar 2025 at 11: 50

A summer storm ripped the roof of a house in Nakhon Sawan last Thursday. This central plain province may face more summer storms this week. (Photo: Chalit Pumruang) — Last Thursday, a home in Nakhon Sawan’s ceiling was ripped off by a summer storm. This key plain state might experience more summers storms this year. ( Photo: Chalit Pumruang )

The Meteorological Department anticipates lower temperature and hailstorms in most areas starting this week and with lower temperature after that.

Because of the warm wind from China that has been bringing in the areas where the weather is warm, Sukanyanee Yawinchan, director-general of the office, announced on Sunday that there will be summer storms and hailstorms in the North, the Northeast, the Central Plain, the East, and the lower South on Sunday and Monday.

There could be thunder and thunderstorms in:

the provinces of Nan, Phetchabun, Phichit, Phitsanulok, and Uttaradit in northwestern India.
the regions of Amnat Charoen, Buri Ram, Chaiyaphum, Kalasin, Khon Kaen, Loei, Maha Sarakham, Nakhon Ratchasima, Roi Et, Si Sa Ket, Surin, Ubon Ratchathani, and Yasothon, in the northern region.
the provinces of Ang Thong, Ayuthaya, Chai Nat, Lop Buri, Nakhon Pathom, Nakhon Sawan, Ratchaburi, Samut Sakhon, Samut Songkhram, Saraburi, Sing Buri, and Greater Bangkok, and also known as the Northern Simple regions, and
the eastern regions of Chachoengsao, Chanthaburi, Chon Buri, Nakhon Nayok, Prachin Buri, Rayong, Sa Kaeo, and Trat.

June storms are most likely to occur on Monday.

Chiang Mai, Kamphaeng Phet, Lampang, Lamphun, Phrae, Sukhothai, and Tak are the northern regions.
the main simple regions of Kanchanaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Ratchaburi, Samut Sakhon, Samut Songkhram, Suphan Buri, and Uthai Thani,
the eastern regions of Chachoengsao, Chanthaburi, Chon Buri, Rayong, and Trat, and
the provinces of Phetchaburi and Prachuap Khiri Khan in the middle southern region.

According to Ms. Sukanyanee, temperature will fall by five to eight degrees Celsius from Tuesday through Thursday in the Northeast and by two to four levels in other areas.

Over the Gulf of Thailand, the South, and the Andaman Sea, eastward and southerly winds had been stronger at the same time. In consequence, she predicted that there would be more rain and heavy storms in some of the South’s regions.

In the lower Gulf of Thailand, waves may be two to three meters high, and maybe even higher in areas with heavy rain. In the same time, areas of heavy storms will be one to two meters high and more than two meters high in the Andaman Sea and the lower Gulf of Thailand.

Smaller boats should be confined to the lower Gulf of Thailand during this time, according to Ms. Sukanyanee, and kept away from the Andaman Sea during this time.

Biodiesel brand a low-carbon boost

By: Barkar Nash

On: March 15, 2025

In: South-East Asia

Discussed: 16 Mar 2025 at 06: 20

Future is now: A new premium-grade biodiesel to boost low carbon transport. (Photo: National Science and Technology Development Agency) — The only thing left to do is find a new premium-grade diesel to promote low-carbon transfer. National Science and Technology Development Agency ( Photo )

To promote low-carbon travel, Thailand and Japan does co-launch a fresh premium-grade diesel.

H-Fame, a premium biodiesel that lowers the rate of engine wear and is suitable for trucks, has been introduced by Thailand’s National Energy Technology Center ( ENTEC ) and Japan’s New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization ( NEDO ).

With the assistance of the Japan Science and Technology Agency ( JST ) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency ( JICA ), H-Fame biodiesel was created in 2017.

Sumittra Charojrochkul, ENTEC executive chairman, stated that the item has been thoroughly tested and is now ready for mass production.

Efficiency of true H-Fame is comparable to that of B7, a typical fuel, and it emits less particulate matter.

She claimed that the tests were carried out on a number of different types of cars, including a four-wheel vehicle traveling a distance of 10,000 kilometers, a big truck, and a forklift truck.

According to Yuji Yoshimura, a senior director at ENTEC, the cost of an H-Fame may drop as low as 1 baht per gallon while its level of greenhouse gas emissions is 47 % lower than usual.

The H-Fame advanced diesel is a novel, high-efficiency solution for the transportation industry, according to Nuwong Chollacoop, head of the ENTEC’s Low Carbon Energy Research Group.

H-Fame aims to assist businesses in adhering to the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism ( CBAM ) of the European Union while supporting Thailand in meeting its carbon neutrality goal by 2050 and achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2065.

Casino plan could lead to Pheu Thai’s downfall

By: Barkar Nash

On: March 15, 2025

In: South-East Asia

Protesters rally against the government’s draft law to establish casino entertainment complexes, in front of Government House on March 11. (Photo: Chanat Katanyu) — In front of Government House on March 11, protesters demonstrate against the administration’s proposed legislation to create game entertainment structures. ( Photo: Chanat Katanyu )

The president’s support for casino-entertainment structures might lead to widespread opposition to the Pheu Thai-led management.

Anti-government protesters have recently staged small demonstrations against a variety of problems, including former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s reported privileging of Police General Hospital and the memorandum of understanding on sea claims in the Gulf of Thailand in 2001.

Following reports that the government was scheduled to regard the Entertainment Complex Bill, activists resumed gathering on Tuesday despite having these rallies called off following a judge order.

Protest parties have added the casino-entertainment complicated task and the proposed legalization of gambling to their list of grievances, vowing to battle until the issue is resolved despite the cabinet’s final delay in deliberating the act pending the Ministry of Finance’s meeting of public comments.

enduring rallies

Anti-government organizations, including former red-shirt head Jatuporn Prompan, feel compelled to bolster their efforts in response to Chousak Sirinil, the secretary who spearheaded the government’s effort to legalize gambling.

The act has been linked to online gaming, which raises questions about whether it could be legalized through a order or a governmental order, according to Mr. Jatuporn. The change in the lowest savings requirements for gamblers also sparked concern.

Mr. Jatuporn was referring to a rule that would make it necessary for Thai residents to have at least 50 million baht in their savings accounts for at least six weeks before being permitted to enter a casino-entertainment advanced.

Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat said the bill had require Thai players who want to gamble in games to provide proof of their previous three-year income tax returns in the absence of a bill.

But, after it appeared as though the Finance Ministry was considering things. Later, Mr. Julapun confirmed that the 50-million-baht requirement would be reinstated in the legislation as suggested by the Council of State ( CoS), the government’s legal advisor.

The opposition groups have gathered every Tuesday at the weekly case meeting until there is clarity on the bill, according to Mr. Jatuporn, the group’s co-leader, Melting Pot Group.

When asked if the game topic might have a negative impact and cause government coalition partners to rethink their empire, Mr. Jatuporn said it was all a matter of schedule.

” Those with strong practice with protests are aware that timing is everything, so they wait for the right time when everything comes into balance,” he said.

He cited the sacking of the Yingluck Shinawatra management as an illustration, claiming that it was caused by a contentious asylum act followed by irregularities in a rice-pledging system.

The current management is grappling with a wide range of issues, including a weak stock market and declining crop rates.

Previous protest leader Mr. Jatuporn also claimed that some coalition parties also pay attention to public sentiment, and that Pheu Thai never addressed the casino-entertainment complex project until it was mentioned in Thaksin’s country vision.

He said,” If they want a battle, they just need to put it in the case meeting.”

Despite the fact that the casino problem does not completely destroy the legitimacy of the government, according to several observers, ignoring the government’s opinions may turn it into a significant social turning point.

Jatuporn: Speaks to” Thaksin’s perspective.”

A good way to approach

The government should take into account people demands for a vote on the casino-entertainment complex task, according to Chittawan Chanagul, a scientist on playing issues at Kasetsart University’s Faculty of Economics.

She argued that despite having significant social and economic effects, the policy was not initially incorporated into the group’s electoral campaigning and, most important, was never submitted to the Election Commission as required by law.

They really respect the opinions of the electorate by holding a vote. It is a good way to determine this project’s death, she said.

Civic organizations may not believe on every issue, according to Ms. Chittawan, but a number of communities indicate that they are united in their opposition to the casino-entertainment difficult task. It’s still to be seen if it will gain momentum.

They are” a wait-and-see” attitude, especially among the coalition parties. People may take action, at least by starting a peaceful protest, according to Ms. Chittawan, if government partners support it and the issue receives the cabinet’s support.

She claimed that the majority of the general public, including Pheu Thai Party supporters, oppose legalizing gambling out of concern that it will only serve to worsen the nation’s drug problem.

Ms. Chittawan also criticized the opposition for failing to act when it ought to have spearheaded the project’s campaign.

The people don’t believe they are supporting the government or the opposition. However, she said, the opposition’s job is to take action.

Chittawan:” Hold a referendum”

Generally accepted stance

The Stop Gambling Foundation’s secretary-general Thanakorn Khomkrit stated that the organization has no political agenda and will steer clear of protests to overthrow the government in relation to the scheme.

He claimed that the protest groups ‘ demands are distinct from the foundation’s position, including those for a public vote.

The foundation is opposed to the bill and wants it completely dropped, he said, so its task is to educate the public. However, the process allows for public participation.

” We have a common ground on the subject, particularly our opposition to online gambling. He continued,” This is more of an issue-based alliance than a fully coordinated movement.”

Thanakorn: Bands of people banding together

There are still loose ends.

The casino-entertainment project fails to address concerns about the issue of online gambling that is expected to arise, despite the fact that the minimum saving requirement was intended to close loopholes.

Casinos are simply unacceptable, according to Mr. Jatuporn, regardless of how the legislation is changed.

He refrained from making claims that tourism would generate revenue, arguing that visitors who visit for natural attractions, arts, and culture would be slowed down by a rise in crime brought in by gambling.

In contrast, Ms. Chittawan claimed that casinos give gambling operators and state officials opportunities to pursue their own interests, leading to unchecked activities like money laundering, given widespread corruption and lax law enforcement.

She also argued that the CoS’s suggestion that all casino revenues be returned to the state is not a means of preventing corruption because it can occur at the policy level, such as in tax rate regulations.

The bill does not specify a minimum, which could be as low as 10 or 100 million baht, depending on ministerial regulations, despite setting a maximum licensing fee of 5 billion baht.

She said that the fee might be set low to draw in investors, which would have caused significant losses in state revenue that should have been used to address social issues brought on by gambling.

She questioned whether it is possible to restrict access to only foreigners and a small number of wealthy Thais given the government’s plan to establish multiple casinos in different regions.

” As a first step, foreign passport holders were only allowed to play casinos in Vietnam. However, the nation began allowing local players to play at a few venues under specific circumstances in 2017. It demonstrates that even well-planned regulations can alter over time,” she said.

Mr. Thanakorn said that despite the CoS’ revisions to the bill providing more specific instructions on eligibility criteria and revenue allocation, there is a crucial point that the foundation wants to draw attention to.

He made reference to a recently added provision in the bill that would allow for additional businesses that would facilitate casino operations.

” I understand this could allow businesses to manage and facilitate tourist visits to casinos, which is a serious concern because it opens the door to those involved in money laundering, as seen in other countries,” he said.

The provision, according to Mr. Thanakorn, was added to the bill’s final draft as a result of the national committee’s announcement to work with Melco Resorts &amp, Entertainment.

Melco Resorts &amp, Entertainment, a casino operator in Macau, has opened an office in Thailand and plans to make investments in integrated resorts if the government approves plans that include legalized gambling.

Stanley Ho, the late casino mogul and Lawrence Ho’s father, was reportedly charged in alleged ties to triad gangs in previous reports.

Thai govt refutes US criticism of Uyghur repatriation

By: Barkar Nash

On: March 15, 2025

In: South-East Asia

irritates the record of providing refuge to migrants

Chatchai Bangchuad (4th from left), secretary-general of the National Security Council (NSC), meets families of some of the 40 repatriated Uyghurs in China’s Xinjiang on March 1. (Photo: Pheu Thai Party) — On March 1, Chatchai Bangchuad, secretary-general of the National Security Council ( NSC), meets the families of some of the 40 repatriated Uyghurs in China’s Xinjiang. Pheu Thai Party ( Photo )

The Thai government defended the relocation of 40 Tamils to China last month, saying it was done in full accordance with humanitarian standards.

The Thai authorities issued an official response on Saturday in response to the US’s immigration restrictions on Thai officials for their part in deporting at least 40 Tamils to China last month.

The Thai government’s assertion once more stated that the Chinese government had promised to uphold all commitments made to ensure the health of all Uyghurs deported back to China.

The government also pledged to continue monitoring the well-being of the Tamils, as it has done on numerous times since concerns were raised about the situation of those who were repatriated.

Thailand will continue to provide humanitarian shelter to immigrants entering the country, it said, as it has done for more than 50 years.

The notes also reaffirmed the government’s desire to maintain the countries ‘ usually strong relationships and to continue to benefit from them both on bilateral and regional levels.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Friday that immigration restrictions did still apply to current and former Thai officials who are to blame for the required return of 40 Tamils from Thailand or those who are complicit in it.

While the US has previously imposed sanctions on Thailand, including suspending military support following military dictatorships, and even pursuing Thai business and individuals for defying sanctions against third countries, Murray Hiebert, a local professional with the Southeast Asia program at Washington’s Center for Strategic and International Studies, said he could not remember previous instances of sanctions against Thai state officials.

Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, the leader of the opposition, demanded that the government follow international human rights laws.

He cited the US and China as examples of Thailand adhering to the human rights process when making any decisions. ” Good decisions will keep Thailand from any condemnation or disciplinary actions from either part,” he said.

When asked about the rumor that Thai officials Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai might experience US card restrictions, Mr. Natthaphong declined to comment.

They have not yet made any comments about whether they are affected.

The European Parliament’s decision on Thursday criticizing Thailand for the repatriation of Tamils to China and problems relating to its lese-majeste laws resulted in the US’s ban on entry.

Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra reacted by suggesting that the government should contact the International ambassador in Thailand to discuss a resolution to improve understanding of the Uyghur issue.

The state has recently stated that it is going to China to explore and experience how the Tamils are treated.

Mr. Natthaphong argued that Thai government leaders may be permitted to travel freely and be accompanied by independent third-party watchers for any journey to occur.

An international relations expert, Panitan Wattanayagorn, demanded from China to ensure the whereabouts of the 40 Uyghur deported next month and discuss it with both the European Parliament and the US for their comfort.

Govt refutes US Uyghur criticism

By: Barkar Nash

On: March 15, 2025

In: South-East Asia

irks the record of providing refuge to migrants

The Thai government reiterated its support for the repatriation of 40 Tamils up to China last month, stating that the move was in full compliance with charitable standards.

The Thai authorities issued an official response on Saturday in response to the US’s visa ban on Thai officials from Friday for their part in the deportation of at least 40 Tamils to China last month.

The Thai government’s assertion once more stated that the Chinese government had promised to uphold all commitments made to ensure the health of all Uyghurs deported back to China.

The state also pledged to follow up on the safety of the Uyghurs on numerous times in response to concerns raised about those who were repatriated.

And Thailand will continue to provide humanitarian house to immigrants entering the country, it said, as it has done for more than 50 years.

The comment also reaffirmed the president’s desire to maintain the diplomatic and regionally important ties that have always existed between the nations and to continue to benefit from them.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on Friday that immigration restrictions will still apply to Indian officials who are currently and past, or who were responsible in the forced transfer of 40 Uyghurs from Thailand on February 27.

While the US has previously imposed sanctions on Thailand, including suspending military support following military dictatorships, and pursuing sanctions against Thai businesses for enforcing them, Murray Hiebert, a local professional with the Southeast Asia program at Washington’s Center for Strategic and International Studies, said he could not remember previous sanctions against Thai government authorities.

In the meantime, Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, the leader of the opposition, demanded that the government follow international human rights requirements.

He said,” Thailand must keep the individual rights concept in mind when making any decisions,” making reference to the US and China. ” Good decisions will keep Thailand from any condemnation or disciplinary actions from either side,” he said.

They have not yet made any comments about whether they are affected.

The European Parliament’s decision on Thursday criticizing Thailand for the repatriation of Tamils to China and problems relating to its lese-majeste laws resulted in the US’s ban on entry.

Former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra reacted by suggesting that the government should contact the International embassy in Thailand to discuss a resolution to improve understanding of the Uyghur issue.

The state has recently stated that it is going to China to explore and experience how the Separatists are treated.

Mr. Natthaphong argued that Thai government officials may be permitted to travel freely and be accompanied by independent third-party observers for any vacation.

A researcher studying international relations, Panitan Wattanayagorn, demanded from China to ensure the whereabouts of the 40 Uyghur deported next month and share it with the European Parliament and the US for their comfort.

Savannakhet pitches ‘pilgrimages’ to Thais

By: Barkar Nash

On: March 15, 2025

In: South-East Asia

On both sides of the Mekong, there are many similarities.

PUBLISHED: 15 Mar 2025 at 20: 07

Residents and tourists worship Phra That Phon at Wat Phra That Phon in Savannakhet in Laos. Thais are invited to visit the temple. (Photo: Mongkol Bangprapa) — Wat Phra That Phon in Savannakhet, Laos, is where locals and tourists devotion Phra That Phon. The visit to the church is open to Muslims. ( Photo: Mongkol Bangprapa )

Laos ‘ Savannakhet state promotes trip hospitality and is targeting Thai visitors who want to pay respect to the three Buddha treasures in both countries.

Savannakhet can be reached easily from Thailand via the Friendship Bridge in Mukdahan territory.

According to Manisakhone Thammavongxay, mind of the Lao Tourism Promotion Department, Savannakhet is home to some significant spiritual websites that connect the two nations.

The places include Phra That Ing Hang in Savannakhet, Phra That Sikhotabong in Khammouane in Laos, and Phra That Phra That Phanom in Nakhon Phanom in Thailand. All of the items are high-priestly revered in Buddhism and include Buddha treasures.

These buildings were constructed during the reign of King Nanthasen of Sri Khotraboon and were influenced by Khmer structural models, according to Ms Manisakhone. Chinese and Indian citizens equally hold great church fair and merit-making rites during the Thai-Lao Songkran New Year Festival.

Savannakhet is currently being developed as a tourist place, with a focus on social protection and network changes, according to Col Lamkhoun Vorlavong, the provincial director of the Department of Information, Culture, and Tourism.

This includes expanding transportation systems, improving the environment, and promoting events to draw in more readers.

Tourism in Savannakhet has increased at a comparable rate. The majority of the 3 million customers to Thailand, Vietnam, and neighboring countries were tourists, according to him, which generated income for local businesses and communities.

According to Col Lamkhoun, various tourist attractions include the Savannakhet Museum, Old Town Savannakhet, Old Town Savannakhet, and the Mekong river, which are supported by local crafts and dishes, as well as monthly celebrations.

In the future, Savannakhet, Phra That Phon, is expected to receive National Heritage reputation, he said, which will encourage more tourists to visit. The Lao Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism recently led a push trip to Savannakhet.

Prior to this, the Thai government conducted a press tour to promote adventure-style travel in Khammouane province.

Khammouane and Savannakhet also offer investment and development options, particularly through compromises provided by the Chinese government, according to Patt Padhamachit, the Thai Consul General in Savannakhet.

He claimed that Laos intended to develop travel networks and create shared borders to link Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam to market tourism.

Record drug haul in Songkhla worth B117 million

By: Barkar Nash

On: March 15, 2025

In: South-East Asia

Two suspects taken with 200 kg of cocaine and 2.7 million rate pills, with the manager still at large.

PUBLISHED: 15 Mar 2025 at 18: 43

Packs of speed pills and heroin, with a combined worth of 117 million baht, are displayed in Hat Yai on Saturday, after what is believed to be the largest-ever drug haul in Songkhla province. (Photo: Assawin Pakkawan) — Following what is thought to be the largest-ever medicine pull in Songkhla state, bundles of velocity pills and heroin are displayed in Hat Yai on Saturday, with a total value of 117 million ringgit. Assawin Pakkawan ( Photo )

In the largest-ever substance pull in this southern county, authorities have seize about 200 kilos of cocaine and 2.7 million rate pills worth more than 117 million baht, and have detained two suspected drug riders.

According to a media briefing on Saturday, Sayompu Tiboon, 34, of Outfit Yai, and Wiroj Thongdee, 24, both of whom were detained by a gang of officers, soldiers, and local authorities on Thursday.

596 plates of cocaine, which are weighed 208.6 kg and are worth about 89.4 million rmb, and 2.7 million rate tablets for 28 million baht, totaling 117.4 million baht, were taken from them in Hat Yai area, according to Pol Lt Gen Nitinai Langyanai, director of the Border Patrol Police Bureau.

A bicycle, a Toyota Altis with Songkhla license plates, and four mobile phones were likewise seized.

According to Pol Lt. Gen Nitinai, Mr. Sayompu was detained at 9 p.m. on March 13 at a wooden house at a rubber plantation in Tha Morchai community Moo 8 of Outfit Yai area.

In the shelters, massive amounts of cocaine and rate pills were discovered in sacks of animal feed that had been kept in storage while other drug dealers were getting them.

During a raid on a wooden house in the Hat Yai city of Songkhla on Thursday night, one of the two offenders is asked to point at baskets containing rate tablets and cocaine. Assawin Pakkawan ( Photo )

Sayompu claimed that another man, who could only be identified as Boss or Tom, belonged to the drugs during questioning.

Wiroj called Sayompu via the Line chat app to inquire about whether three sacks of the drugs he had ordered were ready for delivery while the questioning was taking place. In the direction of the shelter, Wiroj drove up and parked in front of the vehicle. Police were hiding nearby from him as he was bringing the drugs into his car.

Sayompu informed the arresting team that he had been hired by” Boss” and was paid 2, 000 to 3, 000 baht each time to store drugs inside his refuge.

Wiroj claimed he had been hired to deliver drugs to a Pattani dealer for 40, 000 baht per delivery. The two suspects were being held legally by the police.

Packs of speed pills and heroin seized from the two suspects in Hat Yai district are displayed during a media briefing on Saturday. (Photo: Assawin Pakkawan)

At a Saturday press conference, officers involved in the operation pose with packs of speed pills and heroin as they are presenting to the two suspects in Hat Yai. Assawin Pakkawan ( Photo )

15 Thais sought for online gambling in Poipet

By: Barkar Nash

On: March 15, 2025

In: South-East Asia

suspected to be a larger group just deported after being detained in a border community in Cambodia.

PUBLISHED: 15 Mar 2025 at 17: 52

Ninety-three Thais deported from Cambodia after being arrested during raids on scam centres in Poipet are escorted to a police vehicle on March 5. They were among 119 Thai nationals who were deported to Thailand on March 1 through the Poipet border checkpoint. (Police photo) — On March 5, 93 Thais who were deported from Cambodia after being detained during searches of poipet con centers are escorted to a policeman car. 119 Thai citizens were deported to Thailand on March 1 through the Poipet borders station, making up one of them. ( Photo of the police )

15 Thai nationals who were just repatriated from Poipet in Cambodia for allegedly organizing virtual gambling activities have been granted arrest permits.

According to Pol Lt. Gen Trairong Phiewphan, head of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB ), 119 Thais were detained and sent to Thailand for further investigation last month when the Cambodian government began its crackdown on scammers in the border town.

93 have been accused of being involved in a transnational criminal organization, engaging in illegal activities, being a fraudster, and entering false or misleading information into a machine system that may damage the general public.

On their return to Thailand, seven people were detained by Provincial Police Region 2 officials on separate charges. Four of the 19 people who were still present are aged 17; 15 others were involved in online gaming and gradually faced charges. Five people have been detained so much.

The 15 suspects participated in life gambling sessions that were being aired on a Line chat group targeted Thais, according to Pol Lt Gen Trairong, on Saturday, using props like a nodding doll to warn users of continuous exist streams.

The research is a part of the CCIB’s continued crackdown on illegal online activity. Four suspects have recently been detained for call center fraud, including investment fraud and virtual shopping fraud.

In one instance, a person who posed as a Department of Special Investigations swindled persons into installing software that hacked into bank accounts and robbed them of more than 1 million baht. Other types of gambling and forgery were also outlawed online.

Thailand, according to Royal Thai Police inspector general Pol Gen Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, thanked the Thai government for the imprisonment of the 119 Thais in Poipet.

On March 13 and 14, Pol Gen Thatchai coordinated with the Cambodians to bring charges against the defendants in Cambodia.

He claimed that Thai con artists frequently targeted Thai subjects. When detained, they may claim playing a role in the con artists ‘ schemes, alleging that they had been duped into the company.

Some were thus simply accused of entering Cambodia without authorization. He claimed that these flaws have made it easier for cybercriminals to thrive and become more aggressive in recent years.

Another young vaper admitted to hospital

By: Barkar Nash

On: March 15, 2025

In: South-East Asia

According to public health officials in Chiang Mai, some improper e-cigarette sellers have been stopped.

PUBLISHED: 15 Mar 2025 at 16: 11

E-cigarette liquid bottles of various flavours are seized by the Customs Department. (Photo: Customs Department) — E-cigarette wet containers of different flavors have been seized by the Customs Department. ( Photo: Customs Department )

A young lady who vaped from Grades 4 through 8 is already receiving treatment for severe pneumonia at a clinic in Chiang Mai, according to the provincial public health business on Saturday.

Maharaj Nakorn Chiang Mai Hospital received a report about the event of EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping solution use-associated lung damage ). It is the most recent in a growing number of scenarios involving teenagers who are affected by the effects of long-term e-cigarette usage in Thailand.

The Chiang Mai public health department just polled 163, 359 youth and discovered that 1, 884 of them had admitted to using e-cigarettes.

It claimed that more stringent e-cigarette laws have resulted in the closing of numerous improper suppliers in the northwestern province as a result of stricter enforcement of government regulations.

The Tambon Don Mun Administrative Organisation reported several cases of children who had breathing problems as a result of using e-cigarettes and having kratom tea last month in Buri Ram state.

After using e-cigarettes and consuming rattan for more than a year, four students exhibited symptoms, including stomach tension and trouble breathing, two of whom were in scores 5 and 6 and one in Grade 2.

Parents should be taught about the risks of such materials and kept informed about their children’s activities, according to authorities.

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra wrote a concept on X on Friday, saying that the government needs to be strong with online channels and bsp to stop smoking e-cigarettes.

Barkar Nash (Page 69)