NONG BUA LAMPHU — Three people were fatally shot in northeastern Thailand’s Nong Bua Lamphu province today, marking another tragic incident of gun violence in the region that is still healing from a devastating mass shooting at a daycare center two years ago.
Samart, 54, allegedly shot and killed three people in Non Muang subdistrict of Si Bun Rueang district, Nong Bua Lamphu province, on Nov. 27, 2024.
Police report that Samart, 54, allegedly shot and killed three people in Non Muang subdistrict of Si Bun Rueang district – a father and son, as well as a village security guard. The suspect fled the scene on a motorcycle and was later spotted in Pha Sam Yot subdistrict of Erawan district in Loei province, prompting police to set up checkpoints and increase security around schools and childcare centers.
Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered local authorities and police to expedite the manhunt. He mobilized village headmen and security volunteers to establish checkpoints along possible escape routes and patrol sensitive areas including schools, temples, and gas stations.
The Interior Ministry confirmed that the suspect does not have a registered firearm permit for the 9mm weapon used in the shooting. Preliminary investigation suggests the incident stemmed from a financial dispute over a 10,000-baht government stimulus payment.
Social media posts by the suspect from the night before the shooting revealed his distress, writing “Can’t sleep tonight. They scheduled a meeting at the police station. Wonder how this will end.” The suspect also posted threatening messages targeting his 28-year-old son in Ban Dung district of Udon Thani province and his daughter-in-law’s family, forcing them to flee their homes.
The suspect’s son, speaking to reporters, urged his father to surrender and cease any further violence. Meanwhile, provincial authorities are providing assistance to the victims’ families, including special compensation for the security guard killed in the line of duty. Police continue their search for the armed suspect, who remains at large.
CCTV footage shows Samart, 54, allegedly shooting and killing the first victim in Nong Bua Lamphu province on Nov. 27, 2024.
The incident has raised renewed concerns about gun violence in Thailand, particularly in this region that witnessed one of the country’s deadliest mass shootings in 2022, where 36 people, mostly children and teachers, lost their lives at a daycare center.
Lieutenant General Jiraphop Phuridet, Commander of the Central Investigation Bureau, displays evidence seized in Operation 'CIB Crushes Grey Dragon' at the Crime Suppression Division in Bangkok, November 27, 2024.
BANGKOK — The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has launched an anti-scam crackdown operation called ‘CIB Crushes Grey Dragon,’ conducting raids at 11 locations in Chiang Mai Province targeting call center scammers.
Police Lieutenant General Jiraphop Phuridet, Commander of the Central Investigation Bureau, announced the arrests of 15 suspects, including a Thai woman identified as Ms. Jiraphan, 30, who is married to a Chinese national believed to be the gang’s leader.
The operation targeted locations across three districts: one in Mueang Chiang Mai, five in San Sai, and five in San Kamphaeng. Among those arrested were one Thai male, five Chinese nationals, and eight Myanmar citizens. The suspects face charges of illegally possessing and operating radio communication equipment without proper permits.
In a press conference held on November 27 at the Crime Suppression Division in Bangkok, authorities displayed the seized evidence, which included 642 GSM Gateways (SIM boxes), 72 computers, 1,455 mobile phones, 590,000 SIM cards, 47 SIM card readers, and various other equipment totaling 592,235 items.
The investigation revealed that the gang was operating a sophisticated scheme selling fake social media accounts to call center scammers and online criminals. They used SIM boxes to generate One-Time Passwords (OTP) for creating fraudulent social media accounts, selling each OTP for approximately 5 baht (1 Chinese yuan).
CIB officers seize SIM boxes during Operation ‘CIB Crushes Grey Dragon’ in Chiang Mai Province.CIB officers arrest 15 call center scam suspects during ‘CIB Crushes Grey Dragon Operation’ in Chiang Mai Province.
Ms. Jiraphan denied direct involvement in the criminal activities, claiming she only rented properties and paid utilities for her Chinese husband, who allegedly purchased the equipment. Other suspects reportedly served as caretakers for the properties where the equipment was installed.
“This operation significantly disrupts call center scams that cause billions of baht in damages annually,” said Police Lieutenant General Jiraphop. “Seizing these SIM boxes effectively cuts off a major channel for online criminals. We are now intensifying our efforts to apprehend the Chinese financiers who have fled.”
The case emerged from a previous investigation in May, when authorities conducted raids across 14 locations in nine provinces, leading to the discovery of this larger network in Chiang Mai. The investigation continues as authorities pursue remaining suspects.
FILE - Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, head of the military council, inspects officers during a parade to commemorate Myanmar's 78th Armed Forces Day in Naypyitaw, Myanmar, on March 27, 2023. (AP Photo/Aung Shine Oo, File)
THE HAGUE (AP) — The International Criminal Court’s chief prosecutor asked judges on Wednesday to issue an arrest warrant for the head of Myanmar’s military regime for crimes committed against the country’s Rohingya Muslim minority.
Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, who took power from elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi in a coup in 2021, is accused of crimes against humanity for the deportation and persecution of the Rohingya.
Nearly a million people were forced into neighboring Bangladesh to escape what has been called an ethnic cleansing campaign involving mass rapes, killings and the torching of homes.
From a refugee camp in Bangladesh, the court’s top prosecutor, Karim Khan, said in a statement that he intends to request more warrants for Myanmar’s leaders soon.
“In doing so, we will be demonstrating, together with all of our partners, that the Rohingya have not been forgotten. That they, like all people around the world, are entitled to the protection of the law,” the British barrister said.
Rohingya refugees gather in the rain, with a flag of Myanmar seen at center, to demand safe return to Myanmar’s Rakhine state as they mark the seventh anniversary of their mass exodus at their refugee camp at Kutupalong in Cox’s Bazar district, Bangladesh, Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024. (AP Photo/ Shafiqur Rahman)
The allegations stem from a counterinsurgency campaign that Myanmar’s military began in August 2017 in response to an insurgent attack. Hlaing, who heads the Myanmar Defense Services, is said to have directed the armed forces of Myanmar, known as the Tatmadaw, as well as national police to attack Rohingya civilians.
Khan was in Bangladesh where he met with members of the displaced Rohingya population. About 1 million of the predominately Muslim Rohingya live in Bangladesh as refugees from Myanmar, including about 740,000 who fled in 2017.
Rohingyas face widespread discrimination in Buddhist-majority Myanmar, with most denied citizenship. Myanmar’s government refuses to recognize the Rohingya as one of the country’s 135 lawful ethnic minorities, instead calling them Bengalis, with the implication that their native land is in Bangladesh and they are illegally settled in Myanmar.
Human rights groups applauded the decision to seek a warrant. The dire situation of the Rohingya has received less attention as the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza have grabbed headlines. “The ICC prosecutor’s decision to seek a warrant against Sr. Gen. Min Aung Hlaing comes amid renewed atrocities against Rohingya civilians that echo those suffered seven years ago. The ICC’s action is an important step toward breaking the cycle of abuses and impunity,” said Maria Elena Vignoli, senior international justice counsel at Human Rights Watch.
Ethnic Rohingya men perform a dusk prayer at their camp in Pidie, Aceh province, Indonesia, Friday, Dec. 15, 2023. (AP Photo/Reza Saifullah)
Zin Mar Aung, foreign minister for Myanmar’s opposition National Unity Government, established by elected lawmakers barred from taking their seats in 2021, said on X that ICC judges should “swiftly issue the warrant” and that governments should “act and enforce this warrant to uphold justice and international law.” She posted that the ICC action “represents a critical moment in Myanmar history.”
Thet Swe, a spokesperson for the military regime, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Khan’s request now goes to a panel of three judges who will weigh the evidence provided and determine if a warrant should be issued. There is no deadline for a decision. A request for an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin took less than three weeks in 2023 but judges issued warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his former defense minister and Hamas’ military chief more than six months after Khan asked.
Myanmar does not belong to the global court, but Bangladesh does. In 2018 judges at the court ruled the prosecutor could look into crimes which were “completed” on the territory of a member state, such as forcible deportation.
Rohingya Muslims stand in a queue to receive food being distributed near Balukhali refugee camp in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2017. Photo: Bernat Armangue / AP
In 2019, Khan’s predecessor, Fatou Bensouda, formally requested to open an investigation into the situation and judges gave the green light for investigations into “any crime, including any future crime” committed at least partly in Bangladesh or another court member state and linked to the Rohingya.
The move paved the way for Khan to pursue crimes beyond forcing men, women and children over the border and into refugee camps.
The request comes days after a powerful rebel group seized a key trading town in northeastern Myanmar on the Chinese border, taking control of a lucrative rare earth mining hub in another setback for the military-led government.
The military seized power from Aung San Suu Kyi’s government in February 2021, triggering intensified fighting with long-established armed militias organized by Myanmar’s ethnic minority groups in its border regions which have struggled for decades for more autonomy.
In 2022, the International Court of Justice, the United Nations’ highest court, advanced a separate case against Myanmar brought by Gambia alleging the Southeast Asian nation is responsible for genocide against the Rohingya. Five European countries and Canada have asked the court to back Gambia in the proceedings.
One Bangkok has announced the signing of a THB 50 billion long-term green loan agreement with five of Thailand’s leading financial institutions: Bangkok Bank, Bank of Ayudhya, KASIKORNBANK, Krungthai Bank, and Siam Commercial Bank.
This collaboration marks the first time five leading Thai financial institutions have jointly provided a green loan, representing the largest of its kind in Thailand. The loan will further reinforce the development and operation of One Bangkok, a new landmark in the heart of Bangkok, with a total investment value of THB 120 billion. Green loans are specifically designated to support environmentally friendly projects that contribute to economic and social sustainability. One Bangkok secured the loan based on its commitment to sustainability principles, encompassing design, construction, and management, with a focus on efficient resource and energy utilisation, minimising environmental impact, and creating value for the community and society.
Mr. Panote Sirivadhanabhakdi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Frasers Property Limited, said, “This landmark green loan agreement demonstrates the strong confidence held by these five leading financial institutions in One Bangkok’s potential. As a large-scale holistically integrated development, One Bangkok is poised to become a vibrant business and lifestyle destination, attracting significant investment and driving Thailand’s long-term economic growth. This agreement also reaffirms the commitment of TCC Assets and Frasers Property, as shareholders, to leverage their expertise and experience in developing this project as a model sustainable city, with a focus on efficient energy use, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting natural resource conservation to enhance the quality of life for people and society. This commitment is clearly demonstrated by the tangible and consistent achievement of project development milestones according to plan.”
This financial support underscores the confidence of the financial sector in the long-term potential of the Thai real estate market, particularly in high-quality green office buildings, retail, luxury residences, and the hospitality sector, driven by Thailand’s growth, both in the economy and in the tourism sector. This serves to reinforce investor confidence, both domestically and internationally. One Bangkok is poised to capitalize on this growth as a model green smart city in the heart of Bangkok, equipped with innovations to promote sustainable urban development. Recently, it became the first project in Thailand to achieve LEED for Neighborhood Development Platinum certification, as well as WiredScore and SmartScore Platinum certifications. It is also pursuing WELL Building Standard certification to promote the well-being, comfort, and safety of residents and occupants.
One Bangkok which opened its doors on October 25, 2024, features the retail spaces Parade and The Storeys, which are now both operational. POST 1928, will open in the next phase, whilst One Bangkok Forum, a world-class live entertainment arena, will open in December 2024. Two of the premium office towers, Tower 3 and 4, are currently operational and have attracted numerous leading Thai and international companies, with three more towers planned for subsequent phases. Luxury and lifestyle hotels include The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok, opening in December 2024, Andaz One Bangkok, opening in 2025, and Fraser Suites Bangkok, expected to open in 2026, with another two hotels planned for later phases. The three luxury residential towers have received excellent responses from both Thai and international customers. Furthermore, the project features over 50 rai of green and open spaces, along with art and cultural programs, catering to diverse needs and enriching the overall lifestyle experience.
Bangkok (November 27, 2024) – ICONSIAM, the global landmark on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, has earned the prestigious ICONIC THAI BRAND AWARD and Blue by Alain Ducasse, its Michelin-starred French fine dining restaurant, has been listed among Asia’s Top 100 Restaurants at the Tatler Best 2024 awards ceremony organized by Tatler Asia, the region’s leading luxury, fashion, and lifestyle media outlet.
These accolades underscore ICONSIAM’s success in becoming a top destination for both locals and international visitors, uniting the best of Thailand with global excellence. ICONSIAM also showcases Thailand’s unique identity in every dimension. Blue by Alain Ducasse, a luxurious fine-dining restaurant, has consistently held one Michelin star from 2021 to 2024 at ICONSIAM. This recognition further highlights ICONSIAM’s commitment to delivering extraordinary experiences and bolsters Thailand’s reputation as a premier global culinary destination.
ICONSIAM, a flagship development by Siam Piwat, under a joint venture with Charoen Pokphand Group (CP) and Magnolia Quality Development Corporation (MQDC), continues to set new standards with innovative concepts designed to elevate customer experiences. With over 38 international awards in just six years since its operation, ICONSIAM stands as a global destination and a beacon of Thai excellence along the Chao Phraya River. It serves as a model for pioneering developments that drive economic growth and sustainability in Thailand.
In addition, Tatler Asia and ICONSIAM together provide a unique culinary experience featuring two world-renowned chefs: Chef Wilfrid Hocquet, who has received a one Michelin star from Blue by Alain Ducasse, and Chef Joris Rousseau of Feuille, a Michelin-starred and Green Star-awarded restaurant in Hong Kong. Together, they crafted an innovative menu blending premium French cuisine with exquisite local flavors, offering an exclusive dining experience at Blue by Alain Ducasse for distinguished guests and customers who are interested in experiencing the best of Thailand and the world at Blue by Alain Ducasse, ICONSIAM.
The Tatler Best 2024, hosted by Tatler Asia, celebrates outstanding excellence in Asia’s hospitality and culinary sectors. The event recognizes 100 hotels, 100 restaurants, and 100 bars, alongside the Best in Class Awards, which honor the best hotel, restaurant and bar in Asia with 27 distinct awards.
One Bangkok, the new global lifestyle destination in the heart of Bangkok, invites you to enjoy the festive season with the ONEDEROUS CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION AT ONE BANGKOK. Step into a magical Christmas experience, the only one in the world, with contemporary art-inspired light installations that recount the imaginative story of the epic Ramayana, creatively blending the charm and beauty of Eastern and Western cultures with an added touch of Thai humor. Enjoy a full program of activities and entertainment, today until 5 January 2025.
Palinee Kongchansiri, Chief Retail Officer of One Bangkok, said, “One Bangkok is set to deliver an extraordinary experience this festive season with the ONEDEROUS CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION. We invite everyone to immerse themselves in the magic of Christmas from a fresh perspective, featuring a contemporary Thai twist. Get ready for a Christmas spectacle at One Bangkok. Every corner will sparkle with shimmering lights, welcoming visitors from all over the world. And for the very first time, we’ll unveil the breathtaking ‘Pine Pagoda’ Christmas tree! Enjoy 45 days of non-stop joy with a full lineup of entertainment and shows from leading Thai and international artists, as well as special enticing promotions throughout One Bangkok Retail and participating stores. We are committed to making One Bangkok your ultimate destination in the heart of the city for an unforgettable festive celebration.”
Dazzle in the Colours of Christmas: Journey into a Wonderland with 7 Must-See Highlights
“Pine Pagoda”: Marvel at a magnificent 28-meter-tall Christmas tree inspired by the beauty of Wat Arun Ratchawararam Ratchawaramahawihan (Temple of Dawn). The tree incorporates elements of Thai architectural design, such as the base of the Ubosot (Ordination Hall), the base of the prang (Tower), and vibrant glazed tiles, seamlessly blending Eastern and Western design. Located at One Bangkok Park.
“Wish Upon a Star”: A pathway of wishes inspired by Thai and Western folktales that share the belief of making a wish upon a star. The story features the Thai “Goddess of Clouds” and the Western “Cupid.” One Bangkok Boulevard will be filled with arrows transformed into stars and comets, culminating in the symbols of the moon and sun converging in the middle of the boulevard. A must-see check-in spot.
“Through the Looking Glass: One Love, One Bangkok”: Along One Bangkok Boulevard, besides enjoying the twinkling starlight illuminations, everyone will be mesmerised by 14 window displays. These displays tell the story of the Siamese cat, celebrating its beauty, love, courage, and freedom, as envisioned and created by renowned artist Yoon Phannapast Taychamaythakool, who has collaborated with numerous world-class brands.
Onederous Christmas Market: Enjoy shopping for special gifts from meticulously selected vendors in a unique Christmas Market setting at One Bangkok Park, Parade Square, Parade Gallery, and The Storeys Square today until 5 January 2024.
“Eden of Rama”: At Parade Park along Rama IV Road, experience the land of imagination inspired by the Garden of Eden and the mythical Himavanta Forest. Welcome a crescent moon Santa Claus on a sleigh pulled by Siamese cats into a celebratory realm filled with mythical Thai creatures.
“Ceremony Garden”: At Wireless Park along Wireless Road, discover a beautiful garden inspired by the area’s history as a venue for marching and celebrations. Traditional ceremonial elements such as oversized Christmas windmills are redesigned into new eye-catching forms.
Parade and The Storeys: The ONEDEROUS CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION extends to Parade and The Storeys. Enjoy shopping in the Retail Loop, featuring over 750 leading Thai and international brands, and dining experiences in the Food Loop with over 200 renowned restaurants from around the world, along with special offers from various stores during this festive season.
Celebrate the New Year Countdown with Non-Stop Activities and Entertainment
“Onederous Rhythms in the Park” Usher in the festive season with a vibrant music festival, set in the heart of the park. Kicking off with a jazz celebration, this is an experience that should not be missed by music lovers! Enjoy performances by top jazz artists, including Coco Lashuan, Zoe & The Fabulous Four Jazz Quartet, Ardawan, Johnnifer, Chatt Harit, Nurse and Her Jazz Cats, Bitter Brothers, Nut Krissada Quartet, Rikolatte. Shows take place every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday with two sessions each evening: 18:00 – 19:00 and 19:30 – 20:30, from now through to 8 December, 2024.
The festivities continue with a special zone offering an elevated experience, featuring drinks from Chang and Sangsom, delicious food, and a relaxed atmosphere in the city’s central park. From 13 – 29 December 2024, the celebration will ramp up with live performances from popular acts like Tilly Birds, Whal & Dolph, No One Else, ATOM, Scrubb, Lipta, URBOY TJ, and many more, filling the park with music, fun, and festive cheer at One Bangkok Park.
Christmas Parade: A joyous parade spreading Christmas cheer throughout the Parade and The Storeys every Saturday and Sunday from now until 5 January, 2025. There is also a “Onederous Moment with Santa,” a chance to capture memorable photos with Santa Claus at Parade Square every Saturday and Sunday from 7 – 22 and 25 December 2024. Also, don’t miss a special Christmas evening filled with beautiful music from the “25 Christmas Carols” performance by Wattana Wittaya Academy.
“One Bangkok Countdown Celebration 2025”: Get ready for non-stop fun and entertainment with a spectacular light and sound show. Let’s ring in the New Year together with an unforgettable night featuring performances by many artists such as The Toys, Ling & Orm, Jeff Satur, Ink Waruntorn, Bowkylion, Daou & Offroad, and BUS.
Step into the Festive Season with Special Privileges
“Calendar of Wishes”: Count down to the New Year with a calendar of joy. For every 1,500 THB spent per receipt, receive a Calendar of Wishes game book and a chance to win exclusive gifts and special privileges daily throughout the promotion, with over 27,300 prizes. Plus, a special “Big Prize of the Day” worth at least 10,000 Baht, one prize per day for 45 days, with a total value of over 1.3 million Baht.
“One Nee K Loey at One Bangkok Retail”: For customers using KASIKORNBANK credit cards, receive special discounts of up to 50% at over 30 participating restaurants. Earn up to 17% cashback when using K Point equal to the spending amount. One Bangkok members also receive special gifts, vouchers, and a chance to win grand prizes worth over 10 million Baht.
“One Bangkok Membership Program”: Enjoy exclusive privileges for One Bangkok members. Download the One Bangkok Retail app to stay updated on promotions and events throughout the year.
“Shop to the Beats of Bangkok”: Enjoy exclusive offers and promotions throughout the year with a chance to win grand prizes such as a Mercedes-Benz, a Soneva Jani, a Maldives package, an Azimut yacht cruise package, and other prizes including vouchers for leading hotels, restaurants, and luxury brands, with a total value of over 30 million Baht. Plus, enjoy credit card promotions and special offers from various stores.
Create unforgettable moments with your loved ones at the ONEDEROUS CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION AT ONE BANGKOK today until 5 January 2025.
Note: For more details, download the One Bangkok Retail app and visit WWW.ONEBANGKOK.COM or follow us on Facebook: Parade at One Bangkok / The Storeys at One Bangkok, Instagram: @parade.onebangkok / @thestoreys.onebangkok, TikTok: onebangkok.retail, or add LINE: @onebangkokretail for the latest updates.
Madame Catherine Delacote's villa cannot be inherited by her housekeeper Pa Tim due to Thai law violations.
KOH SAMUI — A seven-month police investigation following the death of a French businesswoman in Koh Samui has revealed illegal business operations and nominee shareholding schemes, resulting in the invalidation of a substantial inheritance intended for her Thai housekeeper.
Police Major General Sermphan Sirikong, Commander of Surat Thani Provincial Police and Director of the Transnational Crime and Illegal Immigration Suppression Center (TCIISC), provided details about the case that began with the death of Madame Catherine Delacote, 59, a French national.
Madame Catherine died by suicide at her luxury villa on April 29, 2024, leaving her assets to her close housekeeper, Mrs. Nattawan, also known as “Pa Tim,” while appointing Mr. Emmanuel, a French national, as the executor of this will.
A luxurious villa on Koh Samui, which Madame Catherine stated in her will that she wished to bequeath to Pa Tim, her close Thai housekeeper.
The contested inheritance included a luxury villa with land valued at approximately 30 million baht and two vacant land plots adjacent to the villa worth about 20 million baht. However, the investigation, which questioned the legality of foreign property ownership and transfer rights, has now concluded with multiple criminal charges.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Nattapong Romsai, Deputy Superintendent of Kanchanadit Police Station, submitted evidence to Koh Samui Police Station on November 26, leading to charges against Madame Catherine’s estate, GVN.E. Company Limited, and Maxicat Company Limited.
The charges include filing false information in official documents, operating unauthorized foreign businesses (specifically in land trading), illegal land acquisition by foreigners, and using Thai nominees to circumvent foreign business restrictions.
Two Thai nationals identified as nominees – Mr. Thongsai Katisuk, 50, from Ko Samui, and Mrs. Ratchaprapa Soreda, 36, from Cha-uat district in Nakhon Si Thammarat – face charges of filing false official documents, assisting foreigners in illegal land acquisition, and supporting unauthorized foreign business operations.
Thai officers inspect luxury villa projects on hilltops in Lamai Subdistrict, Maret District (11 villas) and Khun Hmanang Mountain, Bo Phut Subdistrict (8 villas) on September 18, 2024.
The case has triggered a broader investigation into foreign property ownership on Koh Samui. Lieutenant General Santi Sakuntanak, Director of Internal Security Operations Command Region 4, has ordered a comprehensive review of foreign-owned properties and their corporate structures on the island, involving local authorities and Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment officials.
The investigation highlighted ongoing concerns about foreign ownership of Thai property through nominee arrangements, leading to increased scrutiny of similar cases throughout the region.
As for Pa Tim, she was not investigated in the villa possession case, but she may have rights to other assets, including jewelry from a safe deposit box and bank deposits, as specified in Madame Catherine’s will.
Pa Tim (Aunty Tim), a Thai housekeeper, tearfully said on May 2, 2024, that she was shocked and saddened by the tragic death of Madame Catherine, who left her fortune and three cats to her.
A reporter visited Madame Catherine’s villa on November 27 and met with Pa Tim. She said, “I don’t want to be in the news. Everything is normal.” She continues to maintain and clean the villa as before, making repairs just as when Madame Catherine was there, while another villa project is being managed by Madame Catherine’s ex-husband. As for the assets, everything is proceeding normally according to the written will. “Don’t worry about it,” she added.
In previous media interviews, Pa Tim had expressed her grief over Madame Catherine’s death, stating she never sought the inheritance and promised to care for the deceased’s three cats.
A supporter holds a placard during a celebration of the approval of same-sex marriage bill at the Government House on June 18, 2024. (Khaosod Photo)
BANGKOK — Thailand’s landmark same-sex marriage law could generate $2 billion in annual tourism revenue and attract 4 million additional international visitors, according to projections released by digital travel platform Agoda.
The legislation, set to take effect January 22, 2025, will make Thailand the first ASEAN nation and third country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage. The tourism boost is expected within two years of implementation, representing a 10% increase in international arrivals.
The economic impact extends beyond tourism, with forecasts predicting 152,000 new permanent jobs – split equally between the tourism sector and other industries. The marriage equality law is also projected to increase Thailand’s GDP by 0.3%.
Deputy spokesperson of the Prime Minister’s Office, Sasikan Watthanajan, announced that Thailand is also pursuing a bid to host World Pride 2030. She cited Sydney’s successful 2023 event, which generated AU$185.6 million (approximately 4 billion baht) in economic benefits.
Participants hold sign during the Pride Parade in Bangkok, Thailand, Saturday, June 1, 2024. Thailand is kicking off its celebration for the LGBTQ+ community’s Pride Month with a parade on Saturday, as the country is on the course to become the first nation in Southeast Asia to legalize marriage equality. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)
“The government is determined to promote gender equality and diversity to strengthen Thailand’s tourism strategy,” said Watthanajan. Revenue from the marriage equality initiative is expected to benefit multiple sectors, including accommodation, dining, retail, and domestic travel.
Thailand’s tourism sector has shown strong recovery in 2024, with the Ministry of Tourism and Sports reporting 31,313,787 international visitors from January 1 to November 24, generating approximately 1.47 trillion baht ($42 billion) in tourism revenue.
Chinese tourists led the arrivals with 6.09 million visitors, followed by Malaysia (4.44 million), India (1.87 million), South Korea (1.65 million), and Russia (1.46 million), establishing these nations as the top five source markets for Thailand’s tourism industry.
Foreign tourists pose in traditional Thai costumes with Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn) in Bangkok as a backdrop on October 22, 2024.
Surawong Thientong, Minister of Tourism and Sports stated that the week of November 18-24 saw particularly strong performance from short-haul markets, especially China, which has now exceeded 6 million visitors. South Korean arrivals showed impressive growth, increasing by 14.28% compared to the previous week. The period recorded 749,306 international arrivals, averaging 107,044 visitors daily.
While long-haul market arrivals have temporarily slowed – a typical seasonal pattern – numbers are expected to rebound in December 2024. The tourism ministry anticipates increased visitor numbers in the coming weeks, driven by several factors including:
The onset of the high season for long-haul markets, particularly from Europe
A 10% increase in seat capacity to Thailand since July
Government initiatives to ease travel restrictions, including the elimination of TM6 cards at land borders
Continued efforts to encourage airlines to increase flight frequencies
Police officers interview Mr. Lars, a Swedish national, in front of Pattaya City School 8, after he reported being robbed by a man while he was intoxicated on November 27, 2024.
PATTAYA — A 65-year-old Swedish tourist was robbed in the early hours of November 27 near Pattaya City School 8 in Chonburi Province. The victim, identified only as Mr. Lars, reported that a male suspect, described as appearing to be gay, stole 2,000 baht in cash and a gold-plated ring valued at 40,000 baht.
According to a motorcycle taxi driver who witnessed the incident, the intoxicated tourist was resting while waiting for transport to his accommodation when the suspect approached. The witness, Winai, 50, said he had frequently seen the suspect in the area and had tried to warn the tourist, but the theft had already occurred.
Pattaya City Police are reviewing CCTV footage from the area and interviewing witnesses to track down the suspect. The incident was reported at 3:36 a.m., and police have launched an investigation.
Police officers interview Mr. Lars, a Swedish national, in front of Pattaya City School 8, after he reported being robbed by a man while he was intoxicated on November 27, 2024.
Rescuers search for victims at the site of an Israeli airstrike that targeted a building in Beirut, Lebanon, Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)
JERUSALEM (AP) — Israel and Lebanon-based Hezbollah militants began a ceasefire Wednesday in a major step toward ending nearly 14 months of fighting as a region on edge wondered whether it will hold.
Some celebratory gunshots could be heard in parts of Beirut’s southern suburbs, battered over the past two months, but no immediate violations of the ceasefire were reported.
Israel has said it will attack if Hezbollah breaks the agreement, and an Israeli military spokesman, in an Arabic-language X post in the first half-hour of the ceasefire, warned evacuated residents of southern Lebanon to not head home yet, saying the military remained deployed there.
The ceasefire calls for an initial two-month halt to fighting and requires Hezbollah to end its armed presence in southern Lebanon, while Israeli troops are to return to their side of the border. Thousands of additional Lebanese troopsand U.N. peacekeepers would deploy in the south, and an international panel headed by the United States would monitor compliance.
A police bomb squad officer inspects the site where a rocket fired from Lebanon landed in a backyard in Kiryat Shmona, northern Israel, Tuesday Nov. 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Leo Correa)
The ceasefire began at 4 a.m. Wednesday, a day after Israel carried out its most intense wave of airstrikes in Beirut since the start of the conflict that in recent weeks turned into all-out war. At least 42 people were killed in strikes across the country, according to local authorities.
The ceasefire does not address the devastating war in Gaza, where Hamas is still holding dozens of hostages and the conflict is more intractable.
There appeared to be lingering disagreement over whether Israel would have the right to strike Hezbollah if it believed the militants had violated the agreement, something Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insisted was part of the deal but which Lebanese and Hezbollah officials have rejected.
Israel’s security Cabinet approved the U.S.-France-brokered ceasefire agreement after Netanyahu presented it, his office said. President Joe Biden, speaking in Washington, called the agreement “good news” and said his administration would make a renewed push for a ceasefire in Gaza.
The Biden administration spent much of this year trying to broker a ceasefire and hostage release in Gaza but the talks repeatedly sputtered to a halt. President-elect Donald Trump has vowed to bring peace to the Middle East without saying how, and his team linked the deal to Trump’s looming return to office.
Any halt to the fighting in Lebanon is expected to reduce the likelihood of war between Israel and Iran, which backs both Hezbollah and Hamas and exchanged direct fire with Israel on two occasions earlier this year.
Israel says it will ‘attack with might’ if Hezbollah breaks truce
Netanyahu presented the ceasefire proposal to Cabinet ministers after a televised address in which he listed accomplishments against Israel’s enemies. He said a ceasefire with Hezbollah would further isolate Hamas in Gaza and allow Israel to focus on its main enemy, Iran.
In this screen grab image from video provide by the Israeli Government Press Office, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu makes a televised statement Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024, in Jerusalem, Israel. (Israeli Government Press Office via AP)
“If Hezbollah breaks the agreement and tries to rearm, we will attack,” he said. “For every violation, we will attack with might.”
Biden said Israel reserved the right to quickly resume operations in Lebanon if Hezbollah breaks the terms of the truce, but that the deal “was designed to be a permanent cessation of hostilities.”
Netanyahu’s office said Israel appreciated the U.S. efforts in securing the deal but “reserves the right to act against every threat to its security.”
Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati welcomed the ceasefire and described it as a crucial step toward stability and the return of displaced people.
Hezbollah has said it accepts the proposal, but a senior official with the group said Tuesday it had not seen the agreement in its final form.
“After reviewing the agreement signed by the enemy government, we will see if there is a match between what we stated and what was agreed upon by the Lebanese officials,” Mahmoud Qamati, deputy chair of Hezbollah’s political council, told the Al Jazeera news network.
“We want an end to the aggression, of course, but not at the expense of the sovereignty of the state,” he said, referring to Israel’s demand for freedom of action. “Any violation of sovereignty is refused.”
Warplanes bombard Beirut and its southern suburbs
Even as ceasefire efforts gained momentum in recent days, Israel continued to strike what it called Hezbollah targets across Lebanon while the militants fired rockets, missiles and drones across the border.
An Israeli strike on Tuesday leveled a residential building in central Beirut — the second time in recent days warplanes have hit the crowded area near downtown. At least seven people were killed and 37 wounded, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry.
Israel also struck a building in Beirut’s bustling commercial district of Hamra for the first time, hitting a site around 400 meters (yards) from Lebanon’s Central Bank. There were no reports of casualties.
The Israeli military said it struck targets linked to Hezbollah’s financial arm.
The evacuation warnings covered many areas, including parts of Beirut that previously were not targeted. Residents fled. Traffic was gridlocked, with mattresses tied to some cars. Dozens of people, some wearing pajamas, gathered in a central square, huddling under blankets or standing around fires as Israeli drones buzzed overhead.
Israeli military spokesman Avichay Adraee issued evacuation warnings for 20 buildings in Beirut’s southern suburbs, where Hezbollah has a major presence, as well as a warning for the southern town of Naqoura where the U.N. peacekeeping mission, UNIFIL, is headquartered.
People take shelter in a metro station as a siren sounds a warning of incoming rockets from Lebanon in Haifa, Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Francisco Seco)
UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti said peacekeepers will not evacuate.
Israeli forces reach Litani River in southern Lebanon
The Israeli military also said its ground troops clashed with Hezbollah forces and destroyed rocket launchers in the Slouqi area on the eastern end of the Litani River, a few kilometers (miles) from the Israeli border.
Under the ceasefire deal, Hezbollah is required to move its forces north of the Litani, which in some places is about 30 kilometers (20 miles) north of the border.
Hezbollah began firing into northern Israel on Oct. 8, 2023, saying it was showing support for the Palestinians, a day after Hamas carried out its attack on southern Israel, triggering the Gaza war. Israel returned fire on Hezbollah, and the two sides have exchanged barrages ever since.
Israel escalated its bombardment in mid-September and later sent troops into Lebanon, vowing to put an end to Hezbollah fire so tens of thousands of evacuated Israelis could return to their homes.
More than 3,760 people have been killed by Israeli fire in Lebanon the past 13 months, many of them civilians, according to Lebanese health officials. The bombardment has driven 1.2 million people from their homes. Israel says it has killed more than 2,000 Hezbollah members.
Hezbollah fire has forced some 50,000 Israelis to evacuate in the country’s north, and its rockets have reached as far south in Israel as Tel Aviv. At least 75 people have been killed, more than half of them civilians. More than 50 Israeli soldiers have died in the ground offensive in Lebanon.
UN Resolution 1701 is at the heart of the cease fire
In 2000, Israel withdrew its forces from most of southern Lebanon along a U.N.-demarcated “Blue Line” that separated the two countries and the Israeli-annexed Golan Heights, which most of the world considers occupied Syrian territory. U.N. peacekeeping forces in Lebanon, known as UNIFIL, increased their presence along the line of withdrawal.
Resolution 1701 was supposed to complete Israel’s withdrawal from southern Lebanon and ensure Hezbollah would move north of the Litani River, keeping the area exclusively under the Lebanese military and U.N. peacekeepers.
Up to 15,000 U.N. peacekeepers would help to maintain calm, return displaced Lebanese and secure the area alongside the Lebanese military.
Israeli warplanes fly over Dahiyeh, in Beirut, Lebanon, Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Bilal Hussein)
The goal was long-term security, with land borders eventually demarcated to resolve territorial disputes.
The resolution also reaffirmed previous ones that call for the disarmament of all armed groups in Lebanon — Hezbollah among them.
“It was made for a certain situation and context,” Elias Hanna, a retired Lebanese army general, told The Associated Press. “But as time goes on, the essence of the resolution begins to hollow.”
Has Resolution 1701 been implemented?
For years, Lebanon and Israel blamed each other for countless violations along the tense frontier. Israel said Hezbollah’s elite Radwan Force and growing arsenal remained, and accused the group of using a local environmental organization to spy on troops. Lebanon complained about Israeli military jets and naval ships entering Lebanese territory even when there was no active conflict.
“You had a role of the UNIFIL that slowly eroded like any other peacekeeping with time that has no clear mandate,” said Joseph Bahout, the director of the Issam Fares Institute for Public Policy at the American University of Beirut. “They don’t have permission to inspect the area without coordinating with the Lebanese army.”
Hezbollah’s power, meanwhile, has grown, both in its arsenal and as a political influence in the Lebanese state.
The Iran-backed group was essential in keeping Syrian President Bashar Assad in power when armed opposition groups tried to topple him, and it supports Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Yemen. It has an estimated 150,000 rockets and missiles, including precision-guided missiles pointed at Israel, and has introduced drones into its arsenal.
Hanna says Hezbollah “is something never seen before as a non-state actor” with political and military influence.
How do mediators hope to implement 1701 almost two decades later?
Israel’s security Cabinet approved the ceasefire agreement late Tuesday, according to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office. The ceasefire began at 4 a.m. local time Wednesday.
Efforts led by the U.S. and France for the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah underscored that they still view the resolution as key. For almost a year, Washington has promoted various versions of a deal that would gradually lead to its full implementation.
International mediators hope that by boosting financial support for the Lebanese army — which was not a party in the Israel-Hezbollah war — Lebanon can deploy some 6,000 additional troops south of the Litani River to help enforce the resolution. Under the deal, an international monitoring committee headed by the United States would oversee implementation to ensure that Hezbollah and Israel’s withdrawals take place.
It is not entirely clear how the committee would work or how potential violations would be reported and dealt with.
The circumstances now are far more complicated than in 2006. Some are still skeptical of the resolution’s viability given that the political realities and balance of power both regionally and within Lebanon have dramatically changed since then.
“You’re tying 1701 with a hundred things,” Bahout said. “A resolution is the reflection of a balance of power and political context.”
Now with the ceasefire in place, the hope is that Israel and Lebanon can begin negotiations to demarcate their land border and settle disputes over several points along the Blue Line for long-term security after decades of conflict and tension.
