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How Testosterone Affects Men?

Testosterone, the primary male sex hormone, plays a crucial role in men’s health and development. From puberty through adulthood, it influences various aspects of the male body and behavior. For those concerned about their testosterone levels, a testosterone test can provide valuable insights into their hormonal health and overall well-being.

What Does Testosterone Do?

Testosterone is responsible for the development of male characteristics and maintains several important bodily functions throughout a man’s life.

Fat Distribution

Testosterone helps regulate where fat is stored in the body. Men with healthy testosterone levels tend to have less body fat, particularly in the abdominal area. Low testosterone can lead to increased fat storage, especially around the waistline.

Hair on the Face and Body

One of the most visible effects of testosterone is the growth of facial and body hair. During puberty, testosterone triggers the development of facial hair and increases body hair growth. It also plays a role in male pattern baldness in genetically susceptible individuals.

Muscle Growth and Strength

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Testosterone is anabolic, meaning it promotes muscle growth and strength. It increases muscle protein synthesis and helps maintain muscle mass. Men with higher testosterone levels often find it easier to build and maintain muscle through exercise and resistance training.

Production of Red Blood Cells

Testosterone stimulates the production of red blood cells in bone marrow. This is crucial for maintaining energy levels and overall health, as red blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body. Low testosterone can lead to anemia and fatigue.

Sex Drive

Testosterone influences sexual desire, arousal, and performance. Men with low testosterone often experience a decrease in sex drive and may have difficulty achieving or maintaining erections.

Why You Should Get Testosterone Test

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A testosterone test can provide valuable information about your hormonal health. It’s especially important if you’re experiencing symptoms like decreased libido, fatigue, muscle loss, or mood changes. Early detection of low testosterone can lead to timely treatment and improved quality of life.

If you’re currently living in Thailand and interested in getting a testosterone test, consider visiting Trin Wellness, as the clinic offers comprehensive hormone testing and personalized treatment plans to help you optimize your health and vitality.

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Police Raid Chonburi Luxurious Mansion, Arrest 15 Chinese Scammers

Thai Police
Authorities find 15 Chinese nationals from a call center gang in luxurious two-story mansion on August 30, 2024.

CHONBURI — 15 Chinese nationals who had entered Thailand on tourist visas were arrested as members of a call center scam gang in luxurious mansion in Chonburi Province.

On August 30, Police Lieutenant General Itthipol Itthisarnronchai, Commander of the Immigration Bureau, led Chonburi Immigration Police officers and Nong Prue Police Station officers, armed with a search warrant from Pattaya Provincial Court, to raid a luxurious house in Ban Yai Muk area, Moo 6, Pong Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province. The operation aimed to investigate a group of scammers or call center gang.

Upon searching the luxurious two-story mansion situated on over 5 rai (about 2 acres) of land with a surrounding fence and a workspace overlooking a swimming pool, authorities found 15 Chinese nationals from a call center gang.

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They were seated in front of computers, chatting to deceive fellow Chinese nationals. The computer screens displayed stock market graphs. The police identified themselves and arrested the group, led by Mr. Hu Xin, age 40. They seized 18 computers, 90 mobile phones, and a customer list of over 1,000 names.

Police Major General Phantana Nutcharat, Deputy Commander of the Immigration Bureau, revealed that the investigation team received information about a suspicious group of Chinese nationals potentially engaging in illegal activities in Thailand.

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They had rented a luxurious house for 150,000 baht per month in Pong Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province. This group persuaded victims to invest in stocks, with members assigned different roles:

  1. The first role involved calling Chinese victims and persuading them to download WeChat to recommend good stocks.
  2. The second role had victims join a new application group called “Work Puls,” where a scammer acted as an admin to advise on stock investments.
  3. The admin sent daily messages with stock recommendations and had victims install an app for stock trading lessons. The “teachers” recommending stocks were actually members of the same criminal operation.
  4. Initially, they built trust by allowing victims to receive small rewards (20-100 yuan) through Alipay.
  5. After establishing trust, they encouraged larger investments and then scammed the victims out of their money.

Hu, the gang leader, claimed they had only set up their operation three days prior. The amount of money involved is still under investigation but is estimated to be in the tens to hundreds of millions of baht. All arrested Chinese nationals had entered Thailand on tourist visas. The police will continue to investigate and expand their operation to uncover more of this network.

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Police Urge Fairness in Phuket Dispute Between British and Chinese

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John, a 51-year-old British husband, and Miss Pookie, 25, who have come to Bangkok to seek help from Mr. Ekapop Luangprasert (center), advisor to the Minister of Interior and founder of the "Sai Mai Tong Rod" page, hold a press conference on August 30, 2024.

BANGKOK — The dispute between an expat and his Thai wife and two Chinese mother and daughter in a luxury department store in Phuket has not concluded. One party traveled to Bangkok on Friday to file a complaint, expressing doubts about the police’s handling of the case. This prompted the Region 8 Police Commander to provide clarification.

On August 30, Commander of Region 8 Police Pol Lt Gen Surapong Thanomjit stated that the investigating officers have gathered evidence in these cases where both parties are victims and accused. The facts from each side will be examined and heard by the public prosecutor and in the court trial.

“Therefore, no party should present only their advantages and criticize the other side, nor should they excessively criticize the police officers’ actions beyond reality,” he said.

His remark followed the press conference of Miss Pookie, 25, and John, her 51-year-old British husband, who have come to Bangkok to seek help from Mr. Ekapop Luangprasert, advisor to the Minister of Interior and founder of the “Sai Mai Tong Rod” (Sai Mai Must Survive) page, a social complaint media channel.

They claimed to fear unfair treatment from the Phuket police after becoming suspects in the altercation with the Chinese mother and daughter in front of the Hermès store in the department store.

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Screenshots from a Chinese woman’s recording show when she and her mother confronted their counterparts, an expat and his Thai wife, in front of the Hermès store and at the exit of a department store in the heart of Phuket on August 19, 2024.

They alleged that the police told them, “Just give in to them, the Chinese have connections! If you don’t, life will be difficult.” This stressed them greatly, as they felt they hadn’t done anything wrong but were still suspects. They didn’t expect Thailand to be like this.

Miss Pookie recounted that while she and John were walking in the mall, they collided with the Chinese mother and daughter. They tried to avoid them, but the Chinese were on their phones and couldn’t dodge. John then said, “Be careful when walking.” The Chinese daughter shouted that Pookie had bumped into her mother and used vulgar language, saying “f–k you” and giving the middle finger repeatedly, while attempting to physically attack them.

She continued that John told the opposing party not to touch them, but the Chinese didn’t stop. He then put his hand up to protect himself and pushed back gently, causing the Chinese to fall. The Chinese continued to follow them, so she took out her phone to record the incident, showing the Chinese trying to attack her and knocking her phone down twice.

As they exited the mall, the Chinese woman punched John, with mall staff intervening. The Chinese mother and daughter jumped on John’s back and tore his shirt, but they didn’t retaliate and quickly left the scene. They later filed a complaint at Wichit Police Station in Phuket, but the police officers tried to convince them to settle, claiming the Chinese knew influential people.

They alleged that the police offered them three options:

  1. The Chinese mother and daughter would sincerely apologize to them in the media. They proposed that if both parties apologized, they would agree.
  2. Plead guilty and pay a fine, which they felt was unjust.
  3. If they refused both options, they could pursue legal action against the other party, but during the process, the British boyfriend would have issues entering and exiting the country.
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A screenshot from a Chinese woman’s recording show when she and her mother followed and confronted their counterparts, an expat and his Thai wife, at the exit of a department store in the heart of Phuket on August 19, 2024.

Pookie said that despite being the victims, the police didn’t provide justice, making John lose confidence in the Thai justice system. Additionally, after the incident, a Thai person who knew the Chinese woman posted her picture on Facebook with the message “Looking for you, prepare yourself, you’ll be famous soon,” making her worry about her safety due to the opposing party’s influence and connections.

John stated that some police officers suggested they settle, causing him to lose faith in the legal system and justice in Thailand. He wasn’t stressed about paying a fine but was concerned about what was right. Filing this complaint through the media made him feel better.

The altercation between the two parties occurred on August 19 at 2:10 PM. Ms. Yoyo and Ms. W (mother) filed a complaint that day and provided additional evidence to the police on August 21. Ms. Yoyo stated that the incident occurred in front of the Hermès store. Her mother accidentally bumped into the male expat, whereupon she immediately offered a wai (a traditional Thai gesture of apology).

Ms. Yoyo also stated that she and her mother followed the foreigner and his Thai wife, asking them to stay in the mall until the police arrived, but they refused to stop. She then grabbed hold of the foreign man, leading to a struggle that left her injured.

Many Thai netizens commented on this case, after watching the video clips of the incident, saying that Thailand has become a battleground for foreigners and that neither party in the dispute is willing to back down.

Wichit Police Station received complaints from both parties. In the case filed by the Chinese mother and daughter, John was charged with assault on August 25, which he denied. For the case John filed against the Chinese mother and daughter, the police scheduled them to acknowledge the charges on August 31.

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Related article:

Phuket Mall Becomes Unlikely Scene of Farang and Chinese Conflict

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American Expat Faces Legal Trouble After Phuket Road Rage

legal
Footage from the dashboard camera of another driver, which recorded the incident of an American getting out to confront a Thai driver while stopped at a traffic light. Thai text written at the front states, 'Living in Phuket is getting harder every day.'

PHUKET — Emotional displays on the road can escalate into complicated problems or legal cases, as with the incident that occurred on a street in downtown Phuket Province last Thursday.

On August 30, 2024, investigators from Wichit Police Station in Phuket Province filed charges against Mr. Sunny, a 44-year-old American expat, for property damage and causing fear or alarm by threats.

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Mr. Sunny and his lawyer meet with the deputy investigator at the Wichit Police Station on August 30, 2024,

This stems from a road incident where he had an altercation with a Thai female driver, which was captured on video and shared on social media.

Ms. San, 26, the other party in the dispute with Mr. Sunny, filed a complaint with Wichit Police Station on the afternoon of August 29. She reported that while driving through a tunnel in Wichit sub-district, the other party’s car attempted to overtake her, honking loudly, and cut in front of her twice without using turn signals.

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A screenshot from Ms. San’s mobile phone, which recorded the incident of an American filming to confront her while stopped at a traffic light.

At the time, she didn’t think much of it, assuming the other driver was in a hurry, so she let them pass on the right. When she stopped at a traffic light near a famous department store, the foreign man stopped his car, got out, and hit the back of her car, leaving a dent.

He tried to open her car door, but it was locked. Unable to open it, he returned to his car, then came back to verbally abuse her. She recorded a video of the incident. Later, she posted on social media requesting dashcam footage from other drivers who passed by during the incident to use as evidence for her police report.

Subsequently, Police Colonel Chatree Chookaew, superintendent of Wichit Police Station, ordered officers to check the car’s license plate and summon the owner for questioning. Mr. Sunny and his lawyer then met with the deputy investigator, who found that Mr. Sunny had an international driver’s license.

He stated that he was rushing to take his wife to the doctor. When he encountered the other party’s car braking suddenly, it caused his ill wife to jolt inside the car. This angered him greatly, so when they reached the incident location, he stopped the car and got out to question the other party. After taking his wife to the doctor, he came to meet with the Wichit Police Station investigators and confessed to all charges.

According to Section 392 of the Criminal Code, anyone who causes fear or alarm in others by threats is subject to a maximum penalty of one month imprisonment or a fine not exceeding 10,000 baht, or both.

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Green Mission by Chula x GULF Launched to Create Eco-Friendly Innovation

Chula and GULF Join Forces for Green Innovation Hackathon ‘Green Mission by Chula x GULF’

Challenging Students Invent Creative Eco-friendly Solutions Under the Theme ‘Beware Your Step: Go Ahead Without Footprints

The Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, in partnership with Gulf Energy Development Public Company Limited (GULF) and Chulalongkorn University Radio Station (Chula Radio Station) under the management of the Office of Academic Resources, Chulalongkorn University, launched the “Green Mission by Chula x GULF” project. The initiative aims to inspire students to develop innovative solutions for environmental challenges. This year’s theme, “Beware Your Step, Go Ahead Without Footprints”, encourages participants to create eco-friendly ideas that minimize their impact on the planet. The launch event was attended by Prof. Pisut Painmanakul, Ph.D., Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University; Assoc. Prof. Veera Muangsin, Ph.D., Deputy Director of the Office of Academic Resources, Chulalongkorn University, Chula Radio Station; Mr. Tanon Tantisunthorn, Executive Officer, Gulf Energy Development Public Company Limited and Assoc. Prof. Witaya Wannasuphoprasit, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, delivered an opening speech at the Charoen Wittayasak Building, Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University.

The press conference also featured a mini hackathon focused on “How to Minimize Carbon Pawprint.” This challenge tasked students from 10 schools with developing innovative solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with pets. The event also included a special session with Mr. Phuwin Tangsakyuen, a renowned actor and alumnus of the Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University. Mr. Phuwin shared public speaking tips to help students present their projects with confidence. The mini hackathon winning team from Mahavajiravudh Songkhla School will advance to the next round of the competition, joining a bootcamp at the Center of Learning Network for the Region (CLNR) in Saraburi Province. The final hackathon will award the winner with a cash prize, a certificate of honor, and a special “Popular Vote by GULF” award determined by social media engagement. The total prize pool exceeds 105,000 baht.

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Prof. Pisut Painmanakul, Ph.D., Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, stated, “The Green Mission by Chula x GULF project is a collaboration between the Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, GULF, and Chula Radio Station. Chulalongkorn University is committed to nurturing young talent and fostering a sustainable future. This project aims to address the pressing issue of climate change by inspiring students to develop innovative solutions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. We hope that this initiative will spark creativity and foster interdisciplinary collaboration, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable world for all.”

Assoc. Prof. Veera Muangsin, Ph.D., Deputy Director of the Office of Academic Resources, Chulalongkorn University, and Chula Radio Station FM 101.5 MHz, stated, “As the media platform of Chulalongkorn University, we recognize the importance of environmental issues. Through our radio program Envi Insider by Dr. O, we aim to promote youth engagement in addressing climate change. This project encourages students to develop and implement strategies for managing greenhouse gases and using resources sustainably. By participating in this initiative, students can apply their knowledge to solve real-world environmental problems in their communities. We believe that the new generation of youth has the power to drive positive change in environmental issues. Starting with small steps, they can inspire their peers, friends, and communities to contribute to a more sustainable future.”

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Mr. Tanon Tantisunthorn, Executive Officer, Gulf Energy Development Public Company Limited, said, “GULF is thrilled to partner with Chulalongkorn University on the Green Mission by Chula x GULF project. This initiative not only promotes environmental awareness among Thai youth but also provides them with a platform to contribute to a sustainable future. We believe in the potential of Thai youth to innovate and drive positive change. This project offers students an opportunity to think creatively, learn from experts, collaborate with like-minded peers, and develop problem-solving skills essential for addressing climate change. We hope that the innovative ideas generated through this project will lead to practical applications and solutions. GULF is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable business practices. By supporting this project, we aim to inspire the younger generation to care for natural resources and the environment. We invite all students to join the Green Mission by Chula x GULF project and work together towards a sustainable future.”

Assoc. Prof. Witaya Wannasuphoprasit, Ph.D., Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, expressed, “Green Mission by Chula x GULF offers high school students nationwide the opportunity to participate in this project. The Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, recognizes the critical importance of preventing and controlling greenhouse gas emissions, which is the foundation of the carbon footprint concept. While the project involves competition, our primary goal is to ensure that all participants benefit from the experience. Additionally, the project aims to raise awareness about greenhouse gas emissions, their significance, and effective reduction strategies within the Thai context. By engaging secondary school students, we hope to inspire future leaders who prioritize greenhouse gas management in their careers. This year’s theme, ‘Beware Your Step: Go Ahead Without Footprints,’ promotes a circular economy that utilizes resources efficiently and sustainably. Through this project, we can gather valuable data on greenhouse gas emissions and take steps towards a low-carbon society together.”

Mr. Phuwin Tangsakyuen, an alumnus of the Faculty of Engineering, Chulalongkorn University, said, “As an alumnus of Intania 104, I am excited to share my experience and presentation techniques with the students. Many people feel nervous, tense, or forget their content when speaking in public to a large audience. That happened to me as well. However, with practice, rehearsal, and confidence, you can deliver effective presentations. I was impressed by the dedication and effort of everyone who attended today’s event. I believe that the new generation has the power to create positive change in the world. Let’s start this journey together with Green Mission by Chula x GULF project.”

Join ‘Green Mission by Chula x GULF’ by downloading the application form at https://curadio.chula.ac.th/v2022/activity/detail/?03a4. Applications are open until September 30, 2024. For inquiries, please call 0-2218-3970-74 ext. 102-103 or 081-989-7956. For activity photos, please follow GULF Spark Facebook fan page at https://www.facebook.com/GULFSPARK.TH/ and GULF’s Tiktok channel at https://www.tiktok.com/@GULFspark

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‘I’m a Red Shirt’: Paetongtarn Defends Coalition with Democrat Party

During a visit to Sukhothai Province, Paetongtarn Shinawatra gives an interview answering political questions on August 30, 2024.

SUKHOTHAI — Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister and leader of the Pheu Thai Party, answered political questions for the first time after several unexpected events in the formation of the new government, especially the inclusion of the Democrat Party in the government coalition instead of the Palang Pracharath Party.

During a visit to Sukhothai Province on August 30, she gave an interview stating that a good government that can help the people must have stability, which is crucial. Since Pheu Thai did not invite Palang Pracharath to join, they need enough votes to amend various laws, otherwise, it might be hindered. Today, the Democrat Party’s executives are not the same as they were decades ago.

“Our coalition doesn’t mean Pheu Thai accepts the actions of past Democrat Party executives. Today, many things have changed significantly. We need a stable government. Getting the Democrat Party’s votes is a factor that gives us enough support,” PM Paetongtarn said.

When asked about the Red Shirts’ uneasy reaction to working with the Democrat Party, Ms. Paetongtarn pointed to herself and said, “This is a Red Shirt,” before explaining that political events from 10-20 years ago have passed, many things have changed, including the executives.

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PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra visits Sukhothai Province’s Sawankhalok district to assist flood victims on August 30, 2024.

Although the name is still Democrat, much has changed within. She thought it was time to move forward, saying that if we dwell on politics, it will hold the country back, and numerous small lawsuits are unnecessary for running the country.

“As Prime Minister, I promise to be the PM for all Thai people. This must happen. I’m here to work for all people. I understand the Red Shirts’ feelings well. I can’t say I don’t understand, but are we ready to move forward today? To see a better country prepared for our children? Today we must be adults who are ready. This is important,” she said.

Ms. Paetongtarn compared the situation to a country that was once a dictatorship, saying Thailand wouldn’t trade with them, but when they become democratic, Thailand would resume trade. It’s about looking forward to the future. That’s the nature of it, so we must focus on that point

“I would like to ask the media to encourage and push the country forward together. Don’t focus on unimportant things. Don’t give importance to insignificant lawsuits or issues. Please help because this duty is heavy and not easy. We need cooperation from all sides.”

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Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra visits Sukhothai to meet with flood-affected residents

When asked about Palang Pracharath Party’s plan to file a lawsuit against her to independent organizations, Ms. Paetongtarn said she can’t stop them. The problems within Palang Pracharath should remain their problems, and she wasn’t involved in the decision. When reporters asked if it was because of General Prawit Wongsuwan, the party leader, Ms. Paetongtarn said there were many reasons they couldn’t work with Palang Pracharath.

Regarding Pol.Gen. Sereepisuth Temeeyaves, leader of the Seri Ruam Thai Party, who held a press conference attacking former PM Thaksin for dominating the party after withdrawing from the coalition due to feeling overlooked, Ms. Paetongtarn jokingly said that it might actually be her dominating her father. She then explained that everyone has their own identity and thoughts, with advice from everyone who can help work for the country.

On the progress of forming the government, she said it’s quite settled now, with only qualification checks remaining, which has already taken a week. She asked for a little patience, saying that once the vetting side responds and the list is finalized, she will submit it for royal endorsement as soon as possible. Otherwise, work will be hindered, such as today’s field visit being affected by being a government that hasn’t yet stated its policies.

When asked if the preparation of policies to be declared to the parliament is nearly complete, she replied that it’s almost finished.

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SCG-CPAC, Samsung E&A Partner on 3D Printing Tech

On behalf of CPAC, a cement and building materials company under Siam Cement Group (SCG), Mr. Thammasak Sethaudom, President & CEO of SCG (second from the left), and Mr. Surachai Nimlaor, President of SCG Cement and Green Solution Business (first from the left), signed the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Mr. Hong Namkoong, President and CEO of SAMSUNG E&A Co., Ltd. (second from the right) and Mr. Dong Hyun Kim, Executive Vice President Engineering Technology Division of SAMSUNG E&A Co., Ltd. (first from the right) for the collaboration on 3D Printing and special cementitious materials commercialization opportunities, which brings South Korea-based SAMSUNG E&A company’s international expertise in end-to-end construction solutions and CPAC’s over 100 years record of excellence in cement and concrete products and technology together to elevate the standard of the Thai construction industry to match the global level, on the 21st Floor, SCG Headquarter Bangkok Thailand, 

This MOU shows that both companies have shared the same vision in driving the world’s sustainable construction future with new innovation and technology, particularly 3D printing technology that provides higher efficiency in production and minimizes errors by enabling the automation process from digital file generated by a computer software. This can also help to solve the skilled workforce shortage, shorten the construction period, and reduce construction waste and construction costs compared to traditional construction. The MOU also includes the research collaboration on materials science, machinery and equipment as well as the knowledge sharing about 3D printing construction and special cementitious materials. SAMSUNG E&A plans to use 350 tons of its patented 3D printing mortar, which can develop complex-designed structures with ultra-high strength, for the construction of a building in Saudi Arabia. For this project, CPAC will provide technology consultation support about 3D printing, Engineering Consultation, and Project Evaluation Support to professional services in architectural design and other aesthetic considerations.

From left to right

  1. Mr. Surachai Nimlaor President of SCG Cement and Green Solution Business
  2. Mr. Thammasak Sethaudom President & CEO of SCG (Siam Cement Group)

3.Mr. Hong Namkoong President and CEO of SAMSUNG E&A Co., Ltd. 

4.Mr. Dong Hyun Kim Executive Vice President Engineering Technology Division of

SAMSUNG E&A Co., Ltd. 

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126-Hour Search Ends in Tragedy, All 3 Bodies Recovered in Korat Hi-Speed Tunnel

The operation lasts more than 126 hours following the tunnel collapse in the Klong Khanan Chit section of Chanthuek sub-district, Pak Chong district, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.

NAKHON RATCHASIMA —  The search operation for three missing people in a tunnel built as part of the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail project in Nakhon Ratchasima ended in tragedy. The bodies of the three missing workers were found lifeless.

The operation lasted more than 126 hours following the tunnel collapse on August 24 at 11:40 p.m. in the Klong Khanan Chit section of Chanthuek sub-district, Pak Chong district, Nakhon Ratchasima Province.

On August 30, at around 6:00 a.m., the Rescue Team, including personnel from the Hunan Sunshine company from China, discovered the bodies of two more deceased workers: Mr. Hu Xiangmin, a Chinese national and construction manager, and Mr. Tong Qinlin, a Chinese national and contractor. This followed the recovery of the body of a worker from Myanmar on August 29.

The rescuers dug out the ground and built a support box through the pile of earth to get into the tunnel, about three meters from the original spot where the first body was found. The two recovered bodies were then taken to hospital for autopsies.

 

An autopsy report from Maharaj Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital on the Myanmar worker revealed that the cause of death was asphyxiation and that he probably died on the day of the incident. The reported signs of life on Wednesday, August 28, which gave the rescue team hope, could have been caused by the movement of objects at the construction site, such as falling rocks and soil.

Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, stated that the government’s rescue mission for this incident has now concluded. The site will be handed over to the project owner, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). The investigation will be the responsibility of the police authorities.

He further said that after monitoring the rescue mission on-site for the past four days, he can confirm that all operatives have devoted all available manpower, including K-9 police dogs, and resources to assist the victims trapped in the tunnel. The outcome is something that all parties regret, as they were unable to save the lives of all three workers.

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Rescue Team discovers the bodies of two Chinese workers in the tunnel on August 30, 2024.
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Anutin Charnvirakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, arrives at the scence on August 30, 2024 and states that the government’s rescue mission for this incident has now concluded.

Ekkarat Sriarayanpong, Head of the Governor’s Office of the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), expressed his deepest condolences on behalf of the SRT and assured the families of the deceased of support. He also thanked all the rescue teams, government officials and private sector workers who participated in the search and rescue efforts that led to the recovery of the three trapped workers.

The Khlong Phai tunnel, located in the area of Khlong Khanan Chit, Chanthuek sub-district, Pak Chong district, is the third tunnel of the construction project and stretches over 1.5 kilometers. The search teams faced constant challenges as the ground above the tunnel was slipping, which prolonged the excavation.

In addition, the laying of the life-saving pipes encountered rock, forcing officials to resort to building a support box to prevent additional soil and rock from falling.

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K-9 units join the rescue team in the tunnel search operation in Nakhon Ratchasima.

Earlier, Suriya Jungrungreangkit, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transportation, had stated that the construction of this tunnel was the responsibility of the Nawarat Patanakarn Public Company Limited. When asked about the presence of Chinese workers on the project, he replied that the company probably appreciates the expertise of Chinese companies in building high-speed tunnels and has therefore hired specialists for their skills.

According to the Department of Enterprise Development under the Ministry of Commerce, Nawarat Patanakarn was registered on February 17, 1995 with a registered capital of 2.585 billion baht ($760 million).

The company is active in the service sector, particularly in the construction of non-residential buildings. The financial report for the year 2023 shows a total revenue of 10.12 billion baht($297 million) and a net loss of 925.36 million baht ($27 million).

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Related article:

Tunnel Collapse while Constructing Wall at High-Speed Rail Project in Korat

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Court Grants Bail to 8 Defendants in ‘Boss Red Bull’ Case

Red Bull
A file photo of Vorayuth “Boss” Yoovidhya

BANGKOK — The Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases has accepted the indictment against eight defendants who allegedly used their power to cover up the case by altering the reported speed of the car driven by a Red Bull scion, which led to a fatal accident involving a police officer.

The court has provisionally released all eight defendants, but on condition that they are not allowed to leave the country.

On August 29, the Attorney General filed a lawsuit against Police General Somyot Poompanmoung and seven other defendants in a corruption case through the Special Prosecutor for Anti-Corruption Cases 1.

This case stems from an incident that occurred around 5:20 a.m. on September 3, 2012, when Vorayuth “Boss” Yoovidhya crashed his Ferrari into the rear of a motorcycle driven by Pol. Sgt. Maj. Wichian Klanprasert, killing the officer at the entrance of Soi Sukhumvit 49.

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In this Sept. 4, 2012, file photo, forensic police examine the motorcycle Sgt. Maj. Wichian Klanprasert was riding when he was killed in a hit-and-run by Vorayuth “Boss” Yoovidhya.

Thonglor Police Station investigators then conducted an investigation and collected evidence related to the traffic case, including a report from the Central Forensic Science Division. This report, which analyzed the car driven by Vorayuth using CCTV footage and real distance measurements, calculated an average speed of 177 kilometers per hour, with a possible margin of error of 17 kilometers per hour.

Investigators then forwarded the case to prosecutors at the Southern Bangkok Criminal Case Office and recommended that Vorayuth be prosecuted for reckless driving, causing death and property damage, and failing to stop to render assistance and report the accident.

On May 2, 2013, the Director-General of the Southern Bangkok Criminal Case Office decided to charge Vorayuth with reckless driving resulting in damage to others’ property and death, driving over the legal speed limit, and causing damage to persons and property without stopping to provide reasonable assistance. However, Vorayuth was not charged with driving under the influence causing death.

Red Bull
In this April 5, 2017, file photo, Vorayuth “Boss” Yoovidhya, whose grandfather co-founded energy drink company Red Bull, walks to get in a car as he leaves a house in London. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham, File)

Later, the Deputy Commissioner General of the Royal Thai Police, who had been appointed by the Commissioner General, reviewed the case and did not object to the decision not to charge Vorayuth with driving under the influence of alcohol causing death. Consequently, the decision not to press charges was final.

In the meantime, the limitation period for the remaining charge of reckless driving causing death had expired.

As a result, the eighth defendant, an authorized prosecutor, issued an order not to prosecute Vorayuth for reckless driving causing death, and the Commissioner General of the Royal Thai Police, through the Deputy Commissioner General, did not appeal the prosecutor’s decision, so the order of non-prosecution became final.

Between February 29, 2016 and June 13, 2020, all eight defendants conspired to change the speed of the car driven by Vorayuth at the time of the accident from 177 kilometers per hour to 80 kilometers per hour as planned, even though this constituted a substantial departure from the truth and willful misconduct.

somyos
Police General Somyot Poompanmoung, former Police Commissioner-General, was granted bail on August 29, 2024 in a corruption case along with 7 other defendants who allegedly used their power to alter the reported speed of the car driven by Red Bull heir.

The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) reviewed the actions of the eight defendants and determined that there was sufficient evidence to file criminal charges. It forwarded its report, documents and recommendations to the Attorney General to file charges. As a result, the Attorney General initiated proceedings against the eight defendants.

After reviewing the prosecutor’s complaint and the evidence presented, which included nine boxes and 30 files, the court accepted the complaint and scheduled a preliminary hearing for September 10, 2024 at 9:30 a.m.

In the meantime, all eight defendants applied for bail in the amount of 200,000 baht. The court granted provisional release on the condition that they are not allowed to leave the country unless they receive permission from the court.

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