NBTC and AIS Test Emergency Alert System in Phuket’s Live Network

By

-

19 November 2024, 13:26

Waroonthep Watcharaporn, Head of Business Relations at AIS, stated: “AIS has collaborated with the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES), the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), and other agencies to select the most suitable technology for the national emergency alert system, following international standards. This is the Cell Broadcast Service technology, which allows messages to be sent directly to mobile phones in specific areas. This technology is ideal for emergency alerts because it can simultaneously send messages to all 4G and newer devices within the coverage area of a specific base station. The messages appear on mobile screens as Pop-Up Notifications in near-real-time, enabling immediate awareness of situations.”

“After continuous development, we sincerely thank the NBTC Office for allocating funds from the Broadcasting and Telecommunications Research and Development Fund for Public Interest. This support enabled AIS and other operators to conduct Cell Broadcast technology trials in Phuket, achieving the set goals and preparing for full integration into the national alert system. The recent live network testing served as a proof-of-concept simulation for emergencies and natural disasters, designed to connect with the national command center. These trials were highly successful, building confidence in the safety and security of lives for citizens and tourists alike,” added Waroonthep.

Trairat Viriyasirikul Deputy Secretary General Acting Secretary General of the office of the NBTC, noted: “In the past, the NBTC Office has collaborated with the DES Ministry, the DDPM, and all telecom operators to develop an emergency alert system via mobile networks (Cell Broadcast). Responsibilities were distributed among agencies to ensure a functional Cell Broadcast system that benefits the public. By the second quarter of 2025, the Cell Broadcast system is expected to be operational in some parts of the country.”

Responsibilities are divided among the involved agencies as follows:

– DDPM: Determines the content and area for message dissemination, manages communication (Cell Broadcast Entity – CBE).

– DES Ministry: Oversees the cloud server system and connectivity between the CBE and the Cell Broadcast Center (CBC). Telecom operators are responsible for delivering the alert messages to mobile phones in affected areas.

– NBTC Office: Provides financial support to three mobile operators (AWN, TUC, and NT) through the the Broadcasting and Telecommunications Research and Development Fund for Public Interest.

The trials in Phuket were conducted to test the feasibility of the alert system in real-life scenarios, confirming the readiness of mobile operators in concrete terms.

Waroonthep concluded “At AIS, we are committed to not only ensuring readiness to connect with the national command center for public alerts but also continuously expanding our network coverage to reach all parts of the country. Currently, our network covers over 95% of the population. We aim to further expand into remote areas to ensure that the Cell Broadcast alert system provides equal and comprehensive safety to all citizens.”

45 Sentenced to Up to 10 years in Prison in Hong Kong National Security Case

By

Associated Press

-

19 November 2024, 10:43

HONG KONG (AP) — Dozens of prominent activists were sentenced to up to 10 years in prison on Tuesday in Hong Kong’s biggest national security case under a sweeping law imposed by Beijing that crushed a once-thriving pro-democracy movement.

The defendants were prosecuted in 2021 for their roles in an unofficial primary election under the 2020 national security law. They were accused of attempting to paralyze Hong Kong’s government and force the city’s leader to resign by aiming to win a legislative majority and using it to block government budgets indiscriminately.

The 45 convicted received prison terms ranging from four years and two months to 10 years. Legal scholar Benny Tai was given the longest sentence.

They either pleaded guilty to or were found guilty of conspiracy to commit subversion by three government-approved judges. The judges said in the verdict that the activists’ plans to effect change through the election would have undermined the government’s authority and created a constitutional crisis. Two of the 47 original defendants were acquitted.

Tai, who had written an article outlining “ten steps to mutual destruction” is widely seen as the organizer behind the unofficial primary. In a judgment uploaded online, the judges wrote that Tai essentially “advocated for a revolution” by publishing a series of articles over a period of months that traced his thinking, even though in his mitigation letter Tai said the steps were “never intended to be used as blueprint for any political action.”

AP24320231904472 — FILE – A supporter holds a placard with the photos of some of the 47 pro-democracy defendants outside a court in Hong Kong, on July 8, 2021. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung, File)

Some defendants had claimed that the scheme to secure a majority of seats in the legislature would never have materialized, though the judges rejected this reasoning, stating that “all the participants had put in every endeavor to make it a success.”

In the judgment, the judges highlighted that a great deal of time, resources and money had been put into the organization of the primary election, and rejected the idea that the scheme had been “doomed to fail.”

“When the Primary Election took place on the 10 and 11 July, no one had remotely mentioned the fact that Primary Election was no more than an academic exercise and that the Scheme was absolutely unattainable,” the judgment read. “In order to succeed, the organisers and participants might have hurdles to overcome, that however was expected in every subversion case where efforts were made to overthrow or paralyse a government.”

AP24320231844645 — FILE – Former lawmaker Leung Kwok-hung, known as “Long Hair,” second left, shows a victory sign as some of the 47 pro-democracy activists are escorted by Correctional Services officers to a prison van in Hong Kong, March 4, 2021. (AP Photo/Kin Cheung, File)

The judges said the sentences had been reduced for defendants who said they were unaware the plan to secure a majority in the legislature and stall governance was unlawful.

However, the penalties were not reduced for Tai and Alvin Yeung, as they are lawyers who were “absolutely adamant in pushing for the implementation of the Scheme.”

Observers said the case illustrated how authorities suppressed dissent following huge anti-government protests in 2019, alongside media crackdowns and reduced public choice in elections. The drastic changes reflect how Beijing’s promise to retain the former British colony’s civil liberties for 50 years when it returned to China in 1997 is increasingly threadbare, they said.

Beijing and Hong Kong governments insist the law is necessary for the city’s stability.

The subversion case involves pro-democracy activists across the spectrum. They include Tai, former student leader Joshua Wong and former lawmakers. Most of them have already been detained for more than three and a half years before the sentencing. The separations pained them and their families.

As they pleaded for lesser sentences, some activists were remorseful and apologized while others remained defiant.

Lawyers for Tai and several other defendants argued their clients genuinely believed their actions were lawful at the time.

AP24324080715198 — Representatives from various consulates wait in line outside the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts in Hong Kong Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, ahead of the sentencing in national security case. (AP Photo/Chan Long Hei)

More than 200 people stood in line in moderate rain and winds Tuesday morning for a seat in the court, including one of the acquitted defendants Lee Yue-shun. Lee said he hoped members of the public would show they care about the development of the court case.

“The public’s interpretation and understanding has a far-reaching impact on our society’s future development,” he said.

A supporter locally known as “Grandpa Wong,” who did not know the English spelling of his name, said he wanted to see the convicted activists again. He is about 100 years old and feared he wouldn’t be able to see them when they are released from prison.

Wei Siu-lik, a friend of convicted activist Clarisse Yeung, said she arrived at 4 a.m. even though her leg was injured. “I wanted to let them know there are still many here coming here for them,” she said.

AP24324030004553 — People wait outside the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts in Hong Kong Tuesday, Nov. 19, 2024, ahead of the sentencing in national security case. (AP Photo/Chan Long Hei)

Thirty-one activists entered a guilty plea and have better chances of getting reduced sentences. The law authorizes a range of sentences depending on the seriousness of the offense and the defendant’s role in it, going from under three years for the least serious to 10 years to life for people convicted of “grave” offenses.

The unofficial primary in July 2020, which drew 610,000 voters, was meant to pick pro-democracy candidates who would then run in the official election.

The pro-democracy camp at that time hoped they could secure a legislative majority, which would allow them to press for the 2019 protest demands, including greater police accountability and democratic elections for the city leader.

But the government postponed the legislative election that would have followed the primary, citing public health risks during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Suspect Confesses to Killing Wealthy Friend Over Gambling Debts

By

Khaosod English

-

18 November 2024, 20:36

RAYONG — Police led a female suspect to reenact the murder of her wealthy friend before taking her to a gold shop in Ban Bueng, Chonburi where she sold stolen jewelry. She confessed to acting alone due to online gambling debts, confirming her German husband was not involved.

The victim, Wanna Kürner, 65, a wealthy woman and prosecutor’s mother-in-law, was found dead with both ring fingers severed in a palm plantation in Wang Chan district, Rayong. Her jewelry was stolen. Police arrested Kamonwan Wolf, 57, the victim’s friend, who initially denied involvement but confessed after DNA evidence from hair in the victim’s fingernails was found.

kill friend rayong3 — Kamonwan, the suspect in the wealthy friend’s murder, is taken from Chonburi to Wang Chan Police Station in Rayong Province for investigation on Nov. 17, 2024.

On November 18 at 6 a.m., police took Kamonwan to locate the iron bar used to kill Wanna on November 15, 2024. She admitted to striking the victim’s forehead repeatedly, stealing her gold necklace and bracelet, and cutting off her fingers to take rings. She sold the jewelry in Ban Bueng market for 80,000 baht ($2,300) to pay gambling debts.

During the crime reenactment, heavy security was present as locals gathered, including the victim’s brother who shouted angrily at the suspect. Before being detained, Kamonwan apologized to the victim’s family and warned society against gambling.

kill friend rayong1 — Kamonwan is transported in a prison vehicle to be detained at Rayong Provincial Court after completing the crime reenactment of murdering her wealthy friend on November 18, 2024.

Somchai, the victim’s brother, said he couldn’t understand how the suspect could be so cruel to his sister. He believes if she needed money, she could have simply asked his sister who would have surely helped. Instead, she chose to kill someone she knew. He is deeply grieved by the irreversible loss of his sister and absolutely refuses to forgive the suspect.

He also expressed disbelief at the brutality and doubts about the suspect acting alone. However, police confirmed evidence supports Kamonwan’s confession of acting independently, and her German husband was cleared after questioning showed he was riding his motorcycle to meet friends in Pattaya during the incident.

The punishment for intentional murder carries penalties of: death penalty, life imprisonment, or imprisonment for 15-20 years.

_________

Prevous report:

Chonburi Woman Suspected of Killing Friend, Cutting Off Fingers for Rings

Chinese Cybercrime Bust in Thailand, Over 700 million Calls Using Fake ’02’ Numbers

By

Khaosod English

-

18 November 2024, 17:48

BANGKOK — Cyber police launched “Operation Bridge Blast” to suppress two major Chinese scammer gangs. One of these gangs had disguised themselves as a legitimate company to register phone numbers ’02-xxxxxxx’ used to deceive the public. Another using False Base Stations to send fake SMS messages to victims.

Pol. Lt. Gen. Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, Assistant Commissioner General, as Deputy Director of the Technology Crime Suppression Center, Royal Thai Police, led the announcement of the operation results on November 18 at the Royal Thai Police Headquarters.

In the first operation, officers discovered unusual usage patterns of telephone numbers being used to deceive many citizens, specifically numbers beginning with 02-xxxxxxxx.
Investigation revealed that these 02 numbers were used by call center gangs to trick people into participating in various activities and investments.

The numbers were allocated to mobile network operators through three registered companies that applied for number registration to operate SIP Server equipment using SIP Trunk Solution.

The SIP Trunk Solution technology provides fixed-line telephone network services through the internet, which can manage number usage via computer systems without location restrictions or limitations in signal cable network installation. All numbers begin with 02-xxxxxxx.

scam blast1 3 — Cyber police arrested one of nine suspects involved in one of the three companies that made 730,185,892 fraudulent calls using 02 numbers to deceive the public.

730,185,892 Calls

The three legal entities involved in using numbers for fraud had 11,201 numbers total:

Huanyun Information Technology Co., Ltd. – registered 3,000 numbers, recorded 256,219,676 call attempts. Has 3 directors: 1 Chinese (major shareholder) and 2 Thai.
Yun Tian Ke Technology (Thailand) Co., Ltd. – registered 6,000 numbers, recorded 345,339,574 call attempts. Has 3 directors: 2 Chinese and 1 Thai.
Prima Technology (Thailand) Co., Ltd. – registered 2,201 numbers, recorded 128,626,642 call attempts. Has 3 directors, all Chinese.

The three companies made 730,185,892 calls using the 02 numbers. When officers checked immigration records of the Chinese directors from all three companies, they found no entry-exit records in Thailand, except for one Chinese national who left Thailand on August 7, 2023, and never returned.

scam blast1 2 — Cyber police arrested one of nine suspects involved in one of the three companies that made 730,185,892 fraudulent calls using 02 numbers to deceive the public.

Police gathered evidence and obtained court warrants for 24 suspects – 9 foreigners (3 Chinese, 1 Singaporean, 1 Malaysian, 1 Myanmar, 3 Laotian) and 15 Thai nationals who served as company directors, expense managers, and money mule account holders.

Currently, police have arrested 10 suspects: 9 Thai nationals and 1 Myanmar national. They are coordinating with Interpol to issue Red Notices for the foreign suspects who fled abroad.

They are being prosecuted for: Conspiracy to defraud the public, jointly inputting false computer data into computer systems, being members of a secret criminal organization with illegal purposes (conspiracy to form a criminal association or gang), conspiracy to commit money laundering, joint money laundering operations, and operating as money mule account holders.

False Base Station

In the second operation, collaborating with AIS (Advanced Info Service), police investigated criminals driving vehicles equipped with fake SMS transmitters, sending messages like “Your 9,268 points are about to expire! Claim your gift now!” around busy areas of Sukhumvit Road.

scam blast1 — Cyber police arrest a 35-year-old Chinese man named Yang, finding in his car an operating base station simulator connected to an 8,000W mobile power station, one WiFi router, and four mobile phones.

They arrested a 35-year-old Chinese man named Yang, finding in his car an operating base station simulator connected to an 8,000W mobile power station, one WiFi router, and four mobile phones.

AIS teams identified it as an SMS transmitter using a false base station to simulate AIS network signals. The modified telecommunications radio equipment was operating on various frequencies without NBTC permission. In just 3 days (November 11-13, 2024), it had sent nearly 1 million messages.

Yang faces three charges: unauthorized possession/use/import/export/trade of radio communication equipment, unauthorized establishment of a radio communication station, and unauthorized use of telecommunications frequencies constituting telecommunications operations. Investigation continues to identify the mastermind and network behind this operation.

_______

Tatler Best of Asia: Five-Day Food & Drink Festival in Bangkok

By

MC Marketing

-

18 November 2024, 16:11

November 2024 — Bangkok, Thailand: Prepare for an exclusive celebration of Asia’s finest culinary and mixology talent as the Tatler Best of Asia Takeover Series arrives in Bangkok from November 22 to 26. A key part of the prestigious Tatler Best initiative, this five-day series will showcase the region’s top chefs and bartenders in a series of one-of-a-kind pop-up events, available exclusively through Mastercard’s Priceless.com’s Tatler Experience page.

Hosted at Bangkok’s most luxurious and intimate venues, this highly anticipated event promises unparalleled gastronomic and cocktail experiences you won’t find anywhere else. With limited seating available, these events offer a rare opportunity to experience cutting-edge culinary creations and innovative cocktails from some of Asia’s greatest talents.

The Culinary Line-Up
Food lovers will indulge in exquisite dishes from renowned chefs across Asia. Highlights include:

Julien Royer of Odette (Singapore): On November 26, Royer will present his elegant French cuisine with a vibrant Asian twist at Maison Dunand.
Kai Ho of Taïrroir (Taipei) & Vincent Thierry of Chef’s Table by Lebua: From November 22 to 23, this duo will blend French and Taiwanese flavors at the Dusit Thani’s French restaurant.
Ricardo Chaneton of Mono (Hong Kong): On November 24 and 25, Chaneton will bring a Latin American culinary journey to the Tiara Room, with stunning views of Lumpini Park.

Innovative Cocktails
Asia’s leading mixologists will transform Bangkok’s bar scene, delivering extraordinary cocktails that push boundaries. Guests can look forward to:

Antonio Lai of Quinary (Hong Kong): Bringing molecular mixology to Firefly Bar (November 22) and Gaysorn’s Raynue Lounge (November 23).
Dohyung ‘Demie’ Kim of Zest (Seoul): On November 22, Kim will showcase sustainable cocktails at Dusit Thani’s 1970 Bar, before taking over Firefly Bar at Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel on November 23.
Prantik Haldar of The Bombay Canteen (Mumbai): On November 24, Haldar will shake up vibrant, India-inspired cocktails at Firefly Bar.

A Unique Chance to Meet the Masters
These exclusive takeovers go beyond tastings. Guests will have the chance to meet the culinary and mixology masterminds behind the events, hear about their inspirations and interact with the talent shaping Asia’s food and drink culture. Whether discussing the delicate balance of French cuisine or sustainable cocktail innovations, each event is an opportunity to engage with culinary visionaries firsthand.

Limited Seats Available
With only a limited number of seats for each event, guests are encouraged to secure their spot early to ensure they don’t miss out on this extraordinary experience.

Event Schedule & Reservations
View the full event schedule and book today on Priceless.com’s Tatler Experience page.

The Tatler Best of Asia Takeover Series is proudly presented in partnership with Tumi, Dusit Thani Bangkok, Mastercard, The Macallan, Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), Jagota, and Panpuri. Local partners include Siam Piwat, Iconsiam, Gaysorn Village, Lebua Hotels & Resorts, Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok, The Empire at Bangkok, Maison Dunand, and Bar Us.

For more information, please contact the Tatler Best team at [email protected].

Timely STI Treatment in Bangkok Where to Find STI Treatment in Bangkok

By

MC Marketing

-

18 November 2024, 16:02

Knowing where to find timely and effective treatment for a sexually transmitted disease (STI) in Bangkok could save your life. ReadyCheckGo is a clinic in Bangkok that provides treatment for STIs. Getting appropriate treatment for an STI eliminates the infection that can endanger your health. Getting timely treatment also prevents transmission, which puts your partners at risk of infection.

Even if your infection is not life-threatening, it may cause symptoms that make your body more prone to contracting other diseases. The symptoms can also weaken your immune system and invite new infections. Some of the symptoms of an STI may also need ongoing treatment to live an ordinarily productive life.

STIs and Their Symptoms
There are many types of STIs that have different symptoms. Some of the most common STIs, their symptoms and their long-term health damage include:

Syphilis
The symptoms of syphilis are chancres, rashes, swollen lymph nodes, a sore throat, and fever and fatigue. The long-term possible health impacts and risks include neurological, cardiovascular, and organ damage, blindness or hearing loss and an increased risk of contracting HIV.

Chancroid
Chancroid symptoms in men include skin ulcers and red, shiny bumps, swollen lymph nodes and abscesses, pus and infectious fluid discharges, and increasingly larger sores. The health risks include damage to one’s sexual function, scarring from ulcers, psychosocial impact, and an increased risk of contracting HIV.

Gonorrhea/Chlamydia
Gonorrhea and chlamydia have symptoms, including pelvic pain, swollen and painful testicles, painful urination, abnormal vaginal bleeding, and discharge from the genitals. The long-term health impacts are infertility, an increased risk of contracting HIV, recurring infections, blood infections, and long-term discomfort. Children born to mothers with the diseases often contract eye infections and pneumonia.

Herpes (HSV)
Herpes symptoms include cold sores, painful urination, pain and itching in the genital area, urethral discharges, vaginal discharges, bumps or blisters around the genitals, mouth or anus, painful skin ulcers resulting from the blisters and scabs that form as the ulcers heal. Long-term health issues include chronic pain and discomfort, recurrent outbreaks, and an increased risk of contracting HIV. Newborns can also contract HSV during delivery.

Genital Warts
The symptoms of genital warts include cauliflower-shaped warts that itch or are painful. Bleeding during sex is also a symptom of genital warts. The long-term health risks of genital warts include an increased risk of contracting other STIs, a recurrence of the warts, complications in pregnancy, and an increased risk of developing cancer.

AIDs (HIV)
The symptoms of AIDs include rapid weight loss along with chronic diarrhea, skin lesions, swollen lymph nodes, fever and chronic fatigue. The long-term health impacts of AIDs include chronic issues for your physical and mental health and an increased risk of contracting other infections.

Treatment for STIs in Bangkok
All of these STIs can be successfully managed by getting timely and effective treatment. In Bangkok, ReadyCheckGo clinic has years of experience diagnosing and treating STDs and STIs. If you feel you may have contracted an STI or you’ve been sexually at-risk, make an appointment at the ReadycheckGo Clinic nearest you in Bangkok for an examination, diagnosis and treatment.

Drunk Mexican Driver Caught after Hitting Pattaya Street Sweeper

By

Khaosod English

-

18 November 2024, 15:03

PATTAYA — A Mexican man, driving under the influence, severely injured a female street sweeper in Pattaya and attempted to flee, but citizens surrounded and caught him. Police took the stumbling suspect into the interrogation room.

At 7:00 a.m. on November 18, Pattaya City Police Station received a report of a vehicle hitting a pedestrian with serious injuries on South Pattaya Road near a gas station in Nongprue, Banglamung District, Chonburi Province. Emergency responders from Sawang Boriboon Foundation were dispatched to the scene.

At the scene, they found Ms. Suchada Pilasuk, 22, a cleaning worker employed by Noramon Supply Company under contract with Pattaya City. She was seriously injured and lying in a pool of blood after being struck by a vehicle and thrown to the ground. Her boyfriend and friends at the scene were distraught and crying. Emergency responders provided first aid before rushing her to the hospital.

At the accident site, cleaning equipment including brooms and garbage collectors were scattered across the road, damaged from the impact. The vehicle involved, a white Toyota Fortuner with Bangkok license plates, initially fled the scene. Fortunately, good Samaritans pursued and surrounded the vehicle.

Mr. Wattanakorn Waenkaen, 25, one of the citizens who witnessed the incident, saw the vehicle hit the street sweeper violently and speed away. He pursued on his motorcycle while calling for others to help block the vehicle’s escape.

mexico crash2 — Pattaya Police escort an intoxicated Mexican tourist for questioning after he hit and seriously injured a female street cleaner, Pattaya Police Station, November 18, 2024. (Khaosod Photo)

Mr. Apichai Prakobsaeng, 29, the victim’s boyfriend, and friends reported that Suchada was sweeping debris from the road when the Fortuner suddenly struck her at high speed, throwing her body into the air. The driver didn’t stop to check on her and immediately fled the scene.

Police inspected the vehicle and found damage to its front. The driver, identified as Mr. Choo, 34, a Mexican national, was heavily intoxicated. He was immediately taken to Pattaya Police Station for questioning, partly for his own protection from angry citizens.
A breath alcohol test showed 77 milligrams, exceeding the legal limit of 50mg. Police are reviewing CCTV footage as evidence for prosecution.

The penalties for drunk driving resulting in accidents causing physical or mental harm to others are: Prison sentence of 1 to 5 years, fines ranging from 20,000 to 100,000 baht, and either a minimum one-year driver’s license suspension or permanent revocation. Foreign nationals who commit this offense must complete their punishment in Thailand before they can leave the country.

________

Typhoon Man-Yi Worsens Crisis From Back-To-Back Storms That Devastated the Northern Philippines

By

Associated Press

-

18 November 2024, 13:24

Philippines Asia Typhoon — This photo provided by the MDRRMO Viga Catanduanes, shows damaged houses caused by Typhoon Man-yi in Viga, Catanduanes province, northeastern Philippines Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024. (MDRRMO Viga Catanduanes via AP)

MANILA, Philippines (AP) — Typhoon Man-yi left at least three villagers missing, destroyed houses, knocked out power in entire towns and displaced large numbers of villagers before blowing away from the northern Philippines, worsening the crisis wreaked by five previous storms, officials said Monday.

Man-yi was one of the strongest of the six major storms to hit the northern Philippines in less than a month and had sustained winds of up to 195 kilometers (125 miles) per hour when it slammed into the eastern island province of Catanduanes on Saturday night.

Disaster-response officials said they were checking if the deaths of two villagers were directly related to Man-yi’s onslaught in eastern Camarines Norte province. They said a search was underway for a couple and their child after their shanty was swept away in rampaging rivers in northern Nueva Ecija province.

AP24322086775326 — In this photo provided by the MDRRMO Viga Catanduanes, residents try to fix their damaged homes caused by Typhoon Man-yi in Viga, Catanduanes province, northeastern Philippines Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024. (MDRRMO Viga Catanduanes via AP)

More than a million people were affected by the typhoon and two previous storms, including nearly 700,000 who fled their homes and moved to emergency shelters or relatives’ homes, according to the Official of Civil Defense.

Nearly 8,000 houses were damaged or destroyed and more than 100 cities and towns were hit by power outages due to toppled electric posts, it said.

In the worst-hit province of Camarines, officials pleaded for additional help after fierce winds and rain damaged more houses and cut off electricity and water supplies in the entire province, along with cellphone connections in many areas, provincial information officer Camille Gianan said.

AP24322086775754 — This photo provided by the MDRRMO Viga Catanduanes, shows damaged structure caused by Typhoon Man-yi in Viga, Catanduanes province, northeastern Philippines Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024. (MDRRMO Viga Catanduanes via AP)

Welfare officials transported food aid, drinking water and other help but more is needed over the coming months, Gianan said. Many villagers will need construction materials to rebuild their houses, she said.

“They have not recovered from the previous storms when the super typhoon hit,” Gianan told The Associated Press. “It’s been one calamity after another.”

The rare number of back-to-back storms and typhoons that lashed Luzon in just three weeks left more than 160 people dead, affected 9 million people and caused such extensive damage to communities, infrastructure and farmlands that the Philippines may have to import more rice, a staple food.

AP24322086808687 — This photo provided by the MDRRMO Viga Catanduanes, shows damaged houses caused by Typhoon Man-yi in Viga, Catanduanes province, northeastern Philippines Sunday, Nov. 17, 2024. (MDRRMO Viga Catanduanes via AP)

In an emergency meeting as Man-yi approached, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. asked his Cabinet and provincial officials to brace for “the worst-case scenario.”

At least 26 domestic airports and two international airports were briefly shut and inter-island ferry and cargo services were suspended due to rough seas, stranding thousands of passengers and commuters. Most transport services have resumed, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippine and the coast guard.

The United States, Manila’s treaty ally, along with Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei provided cargo aircraft and other storm aid to help the government’s overwhelmed disaster-response agencies. Last month, the first major storm, Trami, left scores of people dead after dumping one to two months’ worth of rain in just 24 hours in several towns.

The Philippines is battered by about 20 typhoons and storms each year. It’s often hit by earthquakes and has more than a dozen active volcanoes, making it one of the world’s most disaster-prone countries.

_________

Red vs. Orange: Political Rivalry Intensifies in Udon Thani Local Election

By

Khaosod English

-

18 November 2024, 06:20

Red — Combination image of Pita Limjaroenrat, former Move Forward Party leader, and Thaksin Shinawatra, former Prime Minister, on campaign stages supporting their respective party candidates for the Udon Thani PAO chief election.

UDON THANI — Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s recent campaign speeches have reignited tensions between Thailand’s “Red Shirt” Pheu Thai Party and the “Orange” political movement, which has evolved from Future Forward Party to Move Forward Party and now to the People’s Party, turning a local election in Udon Thani into a national spotlight event.

Making his first public campaign appearance in 18 years, Thaksin spoke at rallies supporting Pheu Thai’s candidate for the Udon Thani Provincial Administrative Organization chief position.

The event gained national attention not for the local candidate, but for the political sparring between major figures including Thaksin, Pita Limjaroenrat (the former Move Forward Party leader), and Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit (co-founder of the now-disbanded Future Forward Party), who is widely regarded as the de facto leader, or at least the spiritual leader, of the now-disbanded Move Forward Party and People’s Party.

pita udon — Pita Limjaroenrat campaigning for Kanisorn Khurirung, candidate for Udon Thani PAO chief, at Nong Han district on November 16, 2024.

Thaksin’s Controversial Return

Critics have accused Thaksin of re-entering politics despite his earlier statements about wanting to return to Thailand primarily to be close to his grandchildren. His campaign appearance coincided with his daughter Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s attendance at the APEC Summit in Peru.

During his two-day campaign in Udon Thani, traditionally considered a Red Shirt stronghold, Thaksin addressed various issues including the government’s drug suppression policies and regional economic development initiatives.

Growing Political Tensions

The situation became more heated when Thaksin criticized the People’s Party (the newest iteration of the orange-colored political movement), suggesting they needed help from Pita Limjaroenrat, the former Move Forward Party leader whom he compared to a “Korean drama star,” to boost their campaign.

He also recounted that when he met with Thanathorn, they discussed the party dissolution issue, noting that Pheu Thai Party itself had been dissolved three times. Therefore, he advised against focusing too much on proposing to dismantle existing structures, because many Thai people respect the royal institution, so it needs to be preserved. His stance is that it’s best not to touch the lese majeste law (Article 112) and focus on other issues.

Thaksin expressed confidence that under PM Paetongtarn’s leadership, Pheu Thai would secure over 200 parliamentary seats in the next general election, recovering from what he called a “slight accident” in 2023 when they finished second to the Move Forward Party.

thaksin udon22 — Udon Thani residents gathering to hear former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s speech supporting Sarawut Petchpanomporn’s candidacy for Udon Thani PAO chief at Thung Si Mueang field, Thung Si Mueang district, Udon Thani province on November 14, 2024.

Response from Opposition

Leaders from the orange political movement quickly responded to Thaksin’s comments.

Thanathorn criticized Thaksin’s reluctance to reform Thai society’s structures despite understanding the issues while Pita pointed out the contradiction in Thaksin’s stance against coups while forming a government with parties that had supported previous military takeovers.

Pita also stated that he’s not afraid of losing in the election because he has lost many times before. However, the party’s defeats have actually shown that their popularity has been steadily increasing, including in Udon Thani.

Government Optimism

Meanwhile, Pheu Thai Party members echoed Thaksin’s analysis that the party would regain more than 200 seats in parliament. For instance, Phumtham Wechayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, said this was possible and would depend on how successfully the government could implement its policies.

Phumtham said that former Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin had laid the groundwork, and Prime Minister Paetongtarn has continued the work, such as with the Digital Wallet project which faced resistance but has now completed two rounds of implementation, and the serious commitment to drug suppression.

“Looking at the government’s momentum, including the party’s local election candidacies where we’ve been winning consistently, as well as the by-election victory in Phitsanulok province, it shows that people are beginning to understand the reality more and aren’t just listening to narratives that don’t match the facts,” Phumtham said.

The Udon Thani Provincial Administrative Organization election is scheduled for November 24, but observers expect the political rivalry between the reds and the oranges, to continue well beyond the local contest.

_______________

Chonburi Woman Suspected of Killing Friend, Cutting Off Fingers for Rings

By

Khaosod English

-

17 November 2024, 16:26

CHONBURI — A court has issued an arrest warrant on Saturday for a close friend of a wealthy Chonburi woman whose body was found beaten and with two fingers cut off, hidden in a palm plantation in Rayong Province. Gold jewelry weighing 8 baht, two diamond rings, and cash were missing. Police are also questioning her German husband.

Police Lieutenant Taweesak Pakamat of Wang Chan Police Station, Rayong, reported that a woman’s body was discovered on a dirt road in a palm plantation in Moo 3, Pa Yup Subdistrict, Wang Chan District, Rayong, at 7:30 p.m. on November 15.

chonburi kill friend1 — Officials use a tow truck to remove the suspect’s vehicle – the same car used to pick up the victim Wanna from a house in Si Racha District, Chonburi Province, on November 16, 2024.

The body showed signs of blunt force trauma to the face, a slash wound to the back of the head, and both ring fingers had been cut off. The estimated time of death was at least 6 hours prior. Witnesses in the area reported seeing a white car entering the area where the body was found.

The victim was identified as Wanna, 67, who had gone missing after attending a Kathin ceremony at a monastery in Soi Yenrudee, Sattahip, Chonburi.

Wannarat Saengkaew, 35, the victim’s daughter, reported that her mother disappeared after the ceremony. The victim’s possessions, including a 5-baht gold necklace, 3-baht gold bracelet, two diamond rings, and cash, were all missing.

chonburi kill friend3 — CCTV footage clearly shows a white Toyota picking up Wanna, a prosecutor’s mother-in-law, in Chonburi before she disappeared and was later found dead in Rayong province on the evening of November 15, 2024.

Investigation revealed that on the morning of the incident, Wanna’s German husband dropped her at the monastery. A couple who were friends of Wanna offered to drive her home, but before she could exit their car, she received a phone call and left with another driver.

Police investigating CCTV footage saw Wanna entering a white Toyota with Chonburi license plates on November 15.

The car was traced to Kamonwan, 57, who also made the last call to Wanna’s phone. Kamonwan, who lives in Sriracha and is also married to a German national, was arrested after police obtained a warrant. She has denied involvement during interrogation at Nong Kham Police Station, Si Racha District, Chonburi Province on November 16, 2024.

kill friend — The suspect killed her friend and cut off two fingers to steal diamond rings. Kamonwan, is taken from Chonburi to Wang Chan Police Station in Rayong Province for investigation on Nov. 17, 2024.

At 9:00 a.m. on November 17, Wang Chan Police Station in Rayong brought Kamonwan from Chonburi in for questioning. She appeared visibly distressed. Officials then took her to Wang Chan Hospital for a physical examination, where they initially found scratch marks on her arms and bruising on the back of her left hand. They are also awaiting forensic evidence, including fingerprints and evidence from the vehicle.

Investigation into Kamonwan’s background revealed that she had previously lived and worked in Pa Yup Subdistrict, Wang Chan District, Rayong Province for several years, making her very familiar with the area. This serves as additional corroborating evidence that she was the perpetrator.

killing friend husband — Mr. Wolf, husband of murder suspect, returns home in Sriracha and is questioned by police, Nov 17, 2024.

The police also searched for Kamonwan’s German husband, Mr. Wolf, age 68, who claimed he was riding his motorcycle to meet friends in Pattaya on the day of the incident. Immigration police had been notified to monitor him due to concerns he might flee the country.

However, later Mr. Wolf returned to his residence at Saen Preeda Village in Bueng Subdistrict, Sriracha District, Chonburi Province. Police then took him in for questioning.

Meanwhile, officials from the Chonburi Forensic Science Division and Chonburi Immigration Police, armed with a search warrant from the Pattaya Court in Chonburi Province, searched the house for additional evidence. They also collected DNA samples from inside the house to compare with the deceased victim.

Initially, police charged Kamonwan with intentional homicide.

________

730,185,892 Calls

False Base Station

Thaksin’s Controversial Return

Growing Political Tensions

Response from Opposition

Government Optimism

Hot News

LATEST NEWS