A combination photo shows an American man kneeling before the victim's family at both the accident scene and the Mae On police station in Chiang Mai on Jan. 2, 2025, after his dirt bike struck and killed a 58-year-old woman.
CHIANG MAI — An American tourist knelt down in remorse before the family of a 58-year-old woman who died after being struck by his dirt bike in Mae On district, Chiang Mai, on Thursday.
The incident occurred on January 2nd when Mae On police responded to a serious accident on Road 1317 in front of Mae On Flower Garden in Ban Sahakon sub-district. Emergency responders from Wiang Fa performed CPR on the victim before rushing her to Mae On Hospital.
At the scene, Philip, 37, an American national, knelt down to apologize to the family of the victim, Mrs. Kia Sae-wang, 58, from Chang Phueak district, Chiang Mai. Police then invited both parties to the police station for questioning.
The dirt bikes ridden by an American tourist and his friend before the fatal accident in front of Mae On Flower Garden, Chiang Mai Province, on Jan. 2, 2025.
While at the station, officers received news that Mrs. Kia had succumbed to her injuries at the hospital. Upon hearing this, Philip collapsed to the ground and prostrated himself before the victim’s relatives in deep remorse. The family showed no anger, expressing understanding of his genuine remorse while dealing with their own profound grief.
Investigation revealed that Mrs. Kia was crossing the road to get dinner when the accident occurred. Philip was riding his dirt bike alongside his friend, who was on another motorcycle. Police have indicated they will charge him with reckless driving causing death.
FILE - The logo of Tesla car is pictured at the Paris Auto Show, in Paris, Oct. 14, 2024. (AP Photo/Michel Euler, File)
DETROIT (AP) — Tesla posted its first annual sales drop in more than a dozen years Thursday, undercutting a stock that has soared since Donald Trump’s victory on optimism Elon Musk’s close relationship to the president-elect will help the company.
Tesla’s global vehicle sales rose 2.3% in the final quarter of 2024 thanks to 0% financing, free charging and low-priced leases. But that was not enough for billionaire Musk’s most valuable holding to overcome last year’s sluggish start.
The Austin, Texas, company sold 495,570 vehicles from October through December, boosting deliveries to 1.79 million for the full year. That was 1.1% below 2023 sales of 1.81 million as overall demand for electric vehicles in the U.S. and elsewhere slowed.
The year-over-year global sales drop is Tesla’s first since 2011, according to figures from analytics firm Global Data. The company sold 1,306 vehicles in 2010, but that dropped slightly to 1,129 the following year.
The fourth-quarter boost came with a cost. Analysts polled by FactSet expected Tesla’s average sales price to fall to just over $41,000 in the quarter, the lowest in at least four years.
That doesn’t bode well for Tesla’s fourth-quarter earnings report on Jan. 29 and Tesla’s stock fell 6.1% on Thursday.
Musk donated more than $250 million to Trump’s campaign and is a regular guest at Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. Tesla investors have pushed the stock up more than 50% since the election on hopes the new administration will streamline electric vehicle regulations and address other Musk policy priorities.
In 2022, Tesla predicted that its sales would grow 50% most years, but the prediction ran into an aging model lineup and increased competition in China, Europe and the U.S. In the U.S., analysts say most early adopters of technology already own electric vehicles, and more mainstream buyers have concerns about range, price and the ability to find charging stations on longer trips.
The fourth-quarter deliveries fell thousands short of Wall Street expectations. Analysts polled by data provider FactSet expected sales of 498,000 vehicles.
Falling sales early in the year led to once-unheard of discounts for the automaker, cutting into its industry-leading profit margins.
FILE – A Tesla level three Electric vehicle charger is visible, Feb. 2, 2024, in Kennesaw, Ga., near Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart, File)
Competition from legacy and startup automakers is also growing as they try to nibble away at the company’s market share.
Daniel Ives, a financial analyst at Wedbush, said he thinks the stock should be valued more on its promise of creating fully self-driving, autonomous vehicles and its AI technology and is still worth buying despite the sales drop.
“We have never viewed Tesla simply as a car company … instead we have always viewed Musk and Tesla as a leading disruptive technology global player,” wrote Ives. “And the first part of this grand strategic vision has taken shape.”
The fourth-quarter sales, while a record for Tesla, show that the company’s aging model lineup is reaching saturation in the entry-level luxury vehicle market, said Morningstar Analyst Seth Goldstein.
Aside from the Cybertruck, which has had limited appeal, Tesla’s newest consumer model is the Y small SUV which first went on sale in 2020.
Cybertruck
To meet Tesla management’s guidance of 20% to 30% annual sales growth this year, the company will need to come out with a vehicle priced in the mid $30,000s to appeal to more mainstream buyers who might be considering gas, electric or hybrid vehicles, Goldstein said.
Tesla has floated the possibility of a new version of the Model Y that would cost in the mid $30,000s that may be smaller inside than the current Y with fewer features, Goldstein said.
“At that point you’re comparable to some Hondas and Fords and GMs,” Goldstein said. “It takes you out of the luxury market to the more affordable vehicle market.”
Jeff Schuster, vice president of automotive research Global Data, said Tesla faces intense competition worldwide from EV makers in China, the U.S. and elsewhere, many of which are selling EVs to more mainstream buyers. “If they want to continue to see the growth they had, they need to expand to other sizes and price points,” he said.
Musk’s support of Trump for U.S. president also could be turning off some buyers who may be more environmentally conscious and lean toward Democrats, Schuster said. A broader, less costly lineup would appeal to a larger group of buyers, he said. “I suppose the choices that he’s made on the political front don’t line up with a good portion of his buyers’ profile,” Schuster said.
Industry experts say that Tesla used to be the only automaker with credible electric vehicles, but now others such as China’s BYD now have more to offer.
At present, automakers have 75 electric vehicle models for sale in the U.S. Through the first nine months of last year, electric vehicle sales slowed in the U.S., but they are still growing.
Through September, new EV sales rose 7.2% to about 936,000 in the U.S., according to Motorintelligence.com. That’s slower growth than the 47% increase in 2023. But EV sales this year still are likely to surpass last year’s record of 1.19 million. Most other automakers will report full-year sales on Friday.
Nearly all of Tesla’s sales last quarter came from the smaller and less-expensive Models 3 and Y, with the company selling only 23,640 of its more expensive models that include X and S, as well as the new Cybertruck.
Tesla’s global electric vehicle sales edged out Chinese rival BYD, which announced Thursday that its sales soared 41% last year including 1.77 million EVs. The company is vying with Tesla for the world’s top selling EV maker.
Fourth-quarter production of 459,445 vehicles was below total deliveries for the quarter, and full year production of 1.77 million was less than the year’s sales.
Counterfeit US dollars involved in a Bangkok gold purchase scam, reported at Thong Lo Police Station on January 2, 2025.
BANGKOK — A Thai man was deceived by two African men in a sophisticated gold purchase scam, where the perpetrators switched his $90,000 in cash with counterfeit bills. The incident occurred in a hotel parking lot on Sukhumvit Soi 24, Bangkok.
According to the police investigation, the victim reported that he was initially contacted through Facebook by a man identifying himself as Richard (surname unknown), who offered to sell gold at below-market prices. They agreed on a purchase of 2 kilograms of gold and arranged to meet.
On the day of the transaction, the victim prepared $90,000 (approximately 3,080,700 baht) in cash, placed in a Kasikorn Bank paper bag. At the meeting point in Khlong Toei district, he met two African men instead of Richard. Throughout the encounter, Richard maintained phone contact, assuring the victim that the two men were his associates.
Counterfeit banknotes presented at Thong Lo Police Station in Bangkok on January 2, 2025, where a Thai man reported being scammed in a gold purchase deal involving a currency switch
The victim allowed the suspects into his car, with both men sitting in the back seat while the cash bag was placed on the front passenger seat. They drove to a parking lot on Sukhumvit Soi 24, about 200-300 meters from the Ibis Hotel.
The suspects showed the victim what appeared to be 2 kilograms of gold, which felt legitimate by weight. While the victim was distracted by a video call from Richard, the suspects secretly switched the cash bag with one containing counterfeit US dollars.
The two men then claimed they needed to retrieve their passports and would return within 5 minutes. After waiting for over an hour with no sign of their return and unable to contact Richard, the victim became suspicious. Upon checking the bills, he noticed unusual paper quality and attempted to exchange them at Siam Commercial Bank, where the money was confirmed to be counterfeit.
The victim filed a police report on January 2, and authorities are currently searching for the two suspects.
Screenshot from a YouTube video showing three American men BASE jumping from EM Tower into Benjasiri Park, published on November 13, 2024.
BANGKOK — Metropolitan Police have identified three foreigners who illegally performed BASE jumps in central Bangkok in early October 2024. Although the suspects have already left Thailand, authorities warn they will face investigation if they return to the country.
The incident gained attention after one of the jumpers, using the TikTok and Instagram account “armankremer,” posted a video on November 25, 2024, titled “Business trip in Bangkok.” The footage showed the jumper leaping from a high-rise building in the Sukhumvit area, landing near Benjasiri Park, casually packing his parachute, and departing on a motorcycle.
Police Major General Wittawat Chinkham, Commander of Metropolitan Police Division 5, revealed on January 2 that investigation of the social media accounts identified three American citizens who jumped from the EM TOWER on October 3, 2024.
Screenshot from a YouTube video showing three American men BASE jumping from EM Tower into Benjasiri Park, published on November 13, 2024.
Immigration records show the suspects as:
Mr. Arman, who entered Thailand on October 1 and departed October 16, registered accommodation in Phra Nakhon district
Mr. Mateo, who entered September 30 and left October 16, registered in Railay, Krabi
Mr. Blake, who entered September 30 and departed October 16, registered in Phra Nakhon district
Background checks revealed all three have a history of unauthorized building access and BASE jumping incidents across Europe and Asia.
Security camera footage and a video on YouTube showed the trio parking three motorcycles near Benjasiri Park before entering the building. They took an elevator to the 4th floor parking area, then used the fire escape stairwell ST10 to access the 15th floor rooftop. They executed their jump after 10 PM when the park was closed.
Screenshot from a YouTube video showing three American men BASE jumping from EM Tower into Benjasiri Park, published on November 13, 2024.
After landing, the jumpers navigated through planters at the park’s entrance before escaping on motorcycles toward Asok via Sukhumvit Road.
The building management has filed a police complaint at Thong Lo Police Station against all three individuals. The property group has since enhanced security measures, including additional rooftop cameras and 24-hour security personnel to prevent copycat incidents.
Thong Lo police have forwarded the suspects’ information to immigration authorities. Any attempt to reenter Thailand will trigger an immediate investigation.
A Chinese participant receives certificates from Thai police at a volunteer training program, which sparked questions from opposition MP Sasinan Thamnithinan before police clarified it was organized by Siam University.
BANGKOK — The Metropolitan Police Bureau have addressed concerns over a controversial Chinese volunteer training program, confirming it was organized by Siam University and not an official police initiative.
The investigation was prompted after opposition MP Sasinan Thamnithinan, also known as “Lawyer Jam,” raised questions on social media about a program charging Chinese participants 38,000 baht ($1,100) each for police volunteer training.
Metropolitan Police Bureau Chief Pol. Lt. Gen. Siam Boonsom ordered an investigation, revealing that the program was independently run by Siam University’s International Affairs department. According to initial findings, the course focused on crime reporting and self-defense training for international students.
Dr. Li Zhang, Assistant President for International Affairs at Siam University, had requested collaboration from the Police Investigation Division 3 through a letter dated December 13, 2024. Pol. Col. Nivet Ngamlarb approved the partnership and assigned Pol. Lt. Col. Kriangsak Chuangwong as program coordinator.
The certificate for the volunteer training program is signed by Dr. Li Zhang, Assistant President for International Affairs at Siam University, and Pol. Col. Nivet Ngamlarb
However, questions have emerged regarding the certificates issued to program graduates on December 27, 2024, which bore the Royal Thai Police insignia. Metropolitan Police are currently investigating whether proper authorization was granted for the use of official police symbols.
A fact-finding committee headed by Pol. Col. Suttisak Wantee has been established to investigate any potential misconduct. The police emphasized that this program differs from official police volunteer initiatives, which have strict requirements including Thai citizenship or marriage to a Thai national, and mandatory selection by local police stations.
“If this were an official police program, participants would need to be either Thai citizens over 20 years old or foreigners married to Thai nationals residing in the local police station’s jurisdiction,” a police spokesperson explained. Official volunteers also require endorsement from three credible references and serve two-year terms.
The investigation continues as authorities examine whether any disciplinary actions are warranted regarding the use of police insignia and other potential regulatory violations.
Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd., a leader of health enrichment products under BRAND’S trademark in Thailand and Indochina, and Suntory PepsiCo Beverage (Thailand) Co., Ltd., a manufacturer and distributor of beverages under the Suntory and PepsiCo brands in Thailand, are two companies within the Suntory Group, collectively known as “One Suntory” in Thailand. Together, they continue to make significant contributions to society. On November 29, 2024, they organized the first charity golf tournament “One Suntory Golf Invitational 2024” at Siam Country Club. The event was attended by nearly 180 participants, including Suntory executives from the Asia-Pacific region, along with business partners and allies. It aimed to strengthen relationships with partners and allies while driving positive changes in a country where the companies operate. Aligned with the corporate value of “Giving Back to Society,” donations from participants and additional contributions from both companies were given to the Thai Red Cross Society to support humanitarian missions, assisting disaster victims and improving quality of life. Mrs. Mathuvalee Stithyudhakarn, Regulatory Affairs and Corporate Affairs Director, Thailand and Indochina, Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd., and Miss Wipawan Tasanapreechachai, Head of Corporate Affairs, Suntory PepsiCo Beverage (Thailand) Co., Ltd., represented their companies in presenting a donation of 459,000 baht to Ms. Chanprapa Wichitcholchai, Deputy Director of the Fundraising Office, Thai Red Cross Society, at the Amnuaynoratham Building, Thai Red Cross Society, on December 13, 2024.
Mr. Omer Malik, Chief Executive Officer, Thailand and Indochina, Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd., stated that “Thailand holds significant importance for the operations of both Suntory companies.In addition to a robust economic system, demographic changes, such as the transition to an aging society and the increasing focus on health and well-being, have reinforced the commitment of both companies—leaders in health enrichment products and beverage innovation—to strive for organizational growth while enhancing their positive contributions to the country where they operate. The collaboration under ‘One Suntory’ between Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd. and Suntory PepsiCo Beverage (Thailand) Co., Ltd., with support from affiliated Suntory companies in the region, amplifies our capabilities in all aspects. This includes offering a diverse range of products to meet the needs of various consumer groups and promoting positive societal changes alongside business growth, aligning with the corporate value of ‘Growing for Good.’”
Mr. Ashish Joshi, Chief Executive Officer, Suntory PepsiCo Beverage (Thailand) Co., Ltd., shared that “The ‘One Suntory Golf Invitational 2024’ was organized to express our gratitude for the great cooperation and to strengthen relationships with partners and allies. It also provided an opportunity for employees and participants to engage in this charitable activity aimed at creating positive changes in Thai society. Through collaboration under ‘One Suntory’ and contributions of our partners, a total of 459,000 baht was raised and donated to the Thai Red Cross Society to support its missions in 4 areas: medical and health care services, disaster preparedness and response, blood transfusion services, and quality of life promotion. This reaffirms our commitment to upholding the corporate values of ‘Giving Back to Society.’”
The concept of “Social Responsibility” is at heart of creating a balance between business growth and sustainable social development. Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd. and Suntory PepsiCo Beverage (Thailand) Co., Ltd. have continuously collaborated under the “One Suntory” to implement social and environmental projects in Thailand. As one of their projects, the “One Suntory Helping Hands” seeks to instill a sense of social responsibility through employee engagement by organizing internal fundraising activities to support the underprivileged and various charitable organizations, while also providing opportunities for volunteer employees to organize activities that benefit Thai society.
Follow Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand) Co., Ltd.’s sustainability and social responsibility activities on Facebook and LinkedIn at Suntory Beverage & Food (Thailand). For more information, visit www.suntorybeverageandfood.co.th.
Follow Suntory PepsiCo Beverage (Thailand) Co., Ltd.’s sustainability and social responsibility activities on Facebook and LinkedIn at Suntory PepsiCo Beverage (Thailand). For more information, visit www.suntorypepsico.co.th
Staying ahead of the latest SEO marketing trends is vital for brands to remain competitive and effectively engage their target audiences. As the SEO landscape continually evolves, marketers who keep up with key trends can refine their strategies and achieve better results in search engine rankings. Here’s what to focus on now:
Voice Search Optimisation
With the increasing use of voice search, especially on mobile, optimising for spoken queries has become a priority. Voice searches are often longer and more conversational, so incorporating natural language keywords and phrasing into your SEO strategy is essential. Additionally, using schema markup to structure data helps search engines understand your content, increasing the chances of being featured in voice search results.
User Experience (UX) as a Ranking Factor
Google’s focus on user experience is stronger than ever. Metrics like page loading speed, mobile-friendliness, and site navigation impact UX, which, in turn, affects your rankings. Invest in a website that loads quickly, is easy to navigate, and adapts seamlessly across devices. A smooth, engaging experience keeps users on your site longer and encourages return visits—both factors that positively impact your ranking.
AI-Driven Optimisation
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is shaping SEO marketing through tools that assist in content creation, keyword research, and analytics. While AI can streamline processes, high-quality content that resonates with your audience is still the main priority. Use AI to support your strategy but keep content authentic, well-researched, and audience-focused.
E-A-T (Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness)
As part of Google’s guidelines, E-A-T remains a core focus in SEO marketing. High-ranking content demonstrates expertise, authority, and trustworthiness. To align with E-A-T principles, create content that’s informative, backed by reputable sources, and reflects your industry expertise.
Visual and Video SEO
With video content dominating social media and search results, visual SEO is becoming increasingly important. Optimise videos and images with descriptive file names, alt tags, and structured data to increase their visibility. Adding transcripts and relevant keywords makes videos more searchable for users who prefer video content over text.
Staying current with these SEO trends will help you maximise your visibility and engagement. For expert guidance on navigating these changes, explore our comprehensive SEO marketing services and stay ahead in a competitive digital landscape.
Veerasak Gems, a leading name in the Thai gemstone industry, is proud to announce the opening of its new headquarters at the prestigious Silom 19 Building in Bangkok. This move marks a significant milestone in the company’s continued growth and commitment to delivering exceptional client experiences. By establishing a presence in the heart of Bangkok’s business district, Veerasak Gems reinforces its position as a trusted leader in the gemstone market.
Enhancing the Customer Experience
The new facilities have been designed with a primary focus on customer satisfaction and the delivery of exceptional service. The modern lounge features both natural and gemmological lighting, as well as advanced gemmological equipment for detailed gemstone examinations.
Furthermore, the expanded space enables Veerasak Gems to welcome more international clients who travel specifically to Bangkok to purchase high-quality rubies and colored gemstones. The new office enhances the company’s ability to meet global demand efficiently and effectively, aligning with its key objectives.
Key features of the new office include:
Fully-equipped showrooms with natural lighting and gemmological lighting to showcase the unique beauty of gemstones.
Gemmological equipment for accurately examining and evaluating gemstones.
Admin equipment including enhanced security for gemstones, technological upgrades, and well-designed spaces that optimize workflow and productivity.
Promoting Employee Well-Being
Veerasak Gems values the well-being of its employees, offering a workspace designed to enhance productivity and foster team collaboration. The company has also implemented advanced security measures to ensure the safety of both employees and the high-value gemstones in its care. Additionally, upgraded technology has been introduced to streamline operations and improve efficiency.
Gemstones as Valuable Assets
Beyond expanding its facilities, Veerasak Gems is committed to educating the market about the investment potential of high-value gemstones. “Our goal is to help our partners view rubies and colored gemstones not just as jewelry but as long-term investments,” said Tanya Trirotanan, Co-Founder. “Gemstones are durable, independently held assets, making them invaluable treasures that can be passed down as a legacy to future generations.”
About Veerasak Gems
As a certified member of the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), Veerasak Gems is committed to upholding ethical standards and excellence in gemstone production and trading. With over 40 years of experience, the company provides expert gemstone consultation services and international shipping, catering to a premium global clientele.
Thailand is one of the world’s premier hubs for jewelry and gemstones. The export of gems and jewelry accounted for US$14,636 million in 2023, and the industry is a key driver for the Thai economy.
The stolen pickup truck, left severely damaged and burned after the chase, is removed by Highway Police from Highway 36 (Chonburi-Rayong Bypass), Chonburi Province, January 2, 2025.
CHONBURI — Highway Police engaged in a dramatic 100-kilometer pursuit of a car thief, starting from the 24+900 kilometer marker and ending when the stolen pickup truck overturned on the parallel lane of Highway 36 (Chonburi-Rayong Bypass) at the 8+200 kilometer marker in Pong Sub-district, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province.
Dashboard camera footage from January 2 revealed the beginning of a dramatic police pursuit, when the suspect hijacked a pickup truck in Lat Krabang before speeding onto the motorway. The chase, stretching more than 100 kilometers from Bangkok to Chonburi Province, was captured by Highway Police in footage reminiscent of an action film.
The pursuit reached its climactic end near Pattaya City, where the stolen vehicle’s tire suddenly burst. The pickup truck’s wheel rim scraped violently against the road, sending sparks flying and igniting flames. The force of the crash scattered debris across the highway, with the vehicle’s rear axle breaking free and colliding with a guard rail, leaving the truck a mangled wreck.
Rescue workers used chemical extinguishers to put out the flames while Highway Police finally apprehended the suspect, identified as Jin Sub, a 39-year-old Korean national with Swedish citizenship. He appeared disoriented and incoherent when arrested. The victim was present to identify him to authorities. A plastic bag containing cash was found during the search.
The Korean-Swedish suspect is apprehended by Highway Police after a high-speed chase ended on Highway 36, Chonburi Province, January 2, 2025.
Jalom, age 49, reported that before the highway incident in Lat Krabang, he and his wife noticed the suspect attacking a woman. When they stopped to help, the suspect ran to their vehicle and hijacked it. Despite Jalom’s attempts to stop him, the suspect fled, prompting them to immediately alert Highway Police.
The Korean-Swedish man faces three criminal charges: entering Thailand illegally as an alien, committing theft at night, and causing damage to others’ property. The case is being processed at Bang Sao Thong Police Station.
Japanese tourist Mr. Hirano bows in apology to Thai police after his confrontation with officers who prevented him from releasing a sky lantern during New Year's countdown celebrations on January 1, 2025.
CHIANG MAI — A 31-year-old Japanese tourist has apologized to police after a confrontation during New Year’s countdown when he was prevented from releasing a sky lantern.
The tourist, identified as Mr. Hirano, was apprehended after attempting to release a sky lantern in a prohibited zone near Tha Pae Gate on January 5, 2024. The area is restricted due to fire hazards, given its proximity to residential buildings in Mueang Chiang Mai district.
Following the incident, police tracked down Mr. Hirano, who had been vacationing with his family since December 28 to celebrate the 2025 New Year countdown. According to the investigation, around 00:30 a.m. after the countdown celebration, Hirano attempted to release a sky lantern beside the Tha Pae Gate area, mistakenly believing that only the main plaza was restricted.
Screenshots from a viral video showing the moment when a Japanese tourist attempted to release a sky lantern in Chiang Mai during New Year’s countdown, leading to a confrontation when a police officer intervened to stop him.
When Police Sergeant Taweesak intervened to stop him, Hirano initially argued that the location was permitted for lantern release. The misunderstanding escalated into a confrontation, during which Hirano grabbed the officer’s collar. The situation was later diffused when an interpreter explained the regulations to Hirano, who then apologized for his actions.
Feeling remorseful about the incident, Hirano later requested to meet with Sergeant Taweesak personally at the Mueang Chiang Mai Police Station. The meeting took place at 7:30 p.m. the same day, with Police Colonel Prachya Thisla, the station chief, present. Sergeant Taweesak accepted the apology and chose not to press additional charges.
The Japanese tourist meets with Sergeant Taweesak at the Mueang Chiang Mai Police Station as police explain the legal charges for disobeying an officer’s orders on Jan. 1, 2025.
However, police proceeded with legal action for disobeying an officer’s orders. After being informed of the charge through an interpreter, Hirano admitted to the offense and paid the 3,000 baht fine.
Before his scheduled departure on January 2nd, Hirano expressed his sincere apologies and accepted the legal consequences. He added that he would definitely return to Thailand as a tourist, citing his appreciation for the country’s attractions, and promised never to repeat such behavior.
