Koh Phangan Tourist Police arrest 42-year-old Russian suspect at Pooltrap Village Bungalows, Koh Phangan District, Surat Thani Province on July 10, 2024.
KOH PHANGAN — Police arrest a Russian national in Koh Phangan, Surat Thani Province, for attempting to bribe officers with 1 million baht to avoid charges.
The Koh Phangan tourist police received complaints about foreigners working without work permits, particularly renting out motorcycles advertised on the Telegram platform. This platform hosted a group for Russian residents on Koh Phangan.
After an investigation, they discovered a user named “Bike Phangan Samui RENT SALE” offering motorcycle rentals through the platform. The arrest team then contacted the suspect via Telegram and learned the rental details: 2,800 baht per week, 2,100 baht for two weeks, with a deposit of 3,500 baht.
On July 10, 2024, Pol. Lt. Gen. Sak Sira Phueak-am, Commander of the Tourist Police, instructed the Koh Phangan Tourist Police to arrest Mr. Chervenko, 42-year-old Russian national, at Pooltrap Village Bungalows, Moo 6, Ban Tai Subdistrict, Koh Phangan District, Surat Thani Province, along with five motorcycles.
The motorcycles include: Honda ADV 160 CC, Honda Click 108 CC (license plate Surat Thani), Honda ADV 160 CC (license plate Chonburi), and two Yamaha NMAX 155 CC.
The arresting officers were told by other Russians that Mr. Chervenko was allegedly an influential figure in Russia. They charged him with ‘working without a work permit as a foreign national’ and ‘exceeding the validity period of his visa by 175 days’.
Mr. Chervenko admitted that he had not left the kingdom and was staying illegally. He had been renting motorcycles to earn a living until he was arrested.
The police report states that during the arrest, Mr. Chervenko offered, “Officer, how about this? I will give you 1 million baht in exchange for my release. I will call a friend to bring me the money within 20 minutes. Then it’s all over and you can go home to your families and enjoy a nice meal together.”
He even smiled and gave the officers two thumbs up.
MSDHS Collaborates with AIS ACADEMY to Launch the “JUMP THAILAND HACKATHON 2024” Showcasing 15 innovations by young talents to enhance the quality of life for the elderly and people with disabilities
On July 9, 2024, Mr. Anukul Pidkaew, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, presided over the award ceremony for the winners of the “JUMP THAILAND HACKATHON 2024” with the theme “How can we use digital technology to improve the quality of life for the elderly and people with disabilities?” This event emphasizes the mission of inclusive thinking, underscoring that innovation is an opportunity to create equality for Thais. The winners were announced, with the champion team receiving the royal trophy from Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn and a cash prize of 100,000 baht. The winning team is PATHSENSE, followed by Autism in second place, and Lan Ma in third place. Besides receiving a combined prize value of 200,000 baht, the winners will have the opportunity to work with AIS after graduation and develop their projects in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security.
Mr. Anukul stated, “Currently, we are facing a ‘population crisis’ with changes in Thailand’s demographic structure. The birth rate is declining, and the working-age population bears an increasing burden of care. Thailand has become a fully aged society with 13.06 million elderly, accounting for 20% of the total population. The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security has implemented the 5×5 policy to address this crisis, which includes: 1) Empowering the working-age population, 2) Enhancing the quality and productivity of children and youth, 3) Empowering the elderly, 4) Increasing opportunities and enhancing the value of people with disabilities, and 5) Creating a suitable ecosystem for family security. The collaboration between the Ministry and AIS plays a significant role in driving the 5×5 policy by developing creative ideas and innovations to improve the quality of life for the elderly and people with disabilities, facilitating their ability to live comfortably and equitably with others.”
The Ministry believes that the ideas and innovations from young people in this project will greatly benefit if further developed into tools to sustainably promote and enhance the quality of life for the elderly and people with disabilities. This includes leveraging technology to facilitate and enhance their living potential, as well as designing innovations to support the work of relevant personnel, providing efficient tools that can quickly, accurately, and effectively meet the needs of the public.
Mr. Anukul added, “Congratulations to all 15 teams that made it to this round. They are a group of young individuals with great potential. I am delighted to see young people having a platform to showcase their creativity, especially when it brings significant benefits to the disabled and elderly, who are close to all of us.”
Ms. Kantima added, “After launching the JUMP THAILAND HACKATHON 2024 with the theme ‘How can we use digital technology to improve the quality of life for the elderly and people with disabilities?’ in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, many students have shown great interest in presenting their ideas. When AIS staff joined to help develop these ideas by integrating digital technology and platforms, we arrived at 15 interesting ideas today, particularly in terms of extending these ideas to enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities and the elderly effectively.”
“AIS believes in the potential of young people with digital skills and public spirit. ‘Jump Thailand’ has been an initiative by AIS Academy since 2018 to promote potential and knowledge for Thais. This time, we provided a platform for young people, students, and AIS staff to present various projects using digital technology and innovation to benefit society, reduce inequality, and enhance the quality of life. It’s inspiring to see the capabilities of students in creating innovations to improve and develop the quality of life for vulnerable groups. We believe that every small matchstick can ignite bright ideas, inspire thoughtfulness, and contribute to the nation through innovative thinking, skills, knowledge, and new opportunities. This can lead to sustainable development of quality of life and social problem-solving. We believe that the 15 ideas from this project will inspire change in the mechanisms of public care through innovation, knowledge, and new opportunities, leading to sustainable quality of life improvement and social problem-solving.”
The three awarded teams are:
1st Prize: Team PathSense from CMKL University developed an innovation to help people with disabilities live independently through a shoulder bag equipped with an AI camera. The camera can detect objects and obstacles such as stairs, doors, walls, and more in front of the wearer and notify them through headphones or phone speakers.
2nd Prize: Team AUTISM from Chulalongkorn University, Mahidol University, and Silpakorn University developed a communication platform for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to create employment opportunities alongside th erapy. The platform integrates AI to adapt communication among autistic individuals and between autistic individuals and the general public effectively.
3rd Prize: Team Lan Ma from Thammasat University and Srinakharinwirot University developed a fall-detection belt with an airbag activation feature that contacts relatives or ambulances via LINE OA’s DevioBeacon Cellular signal.
“All businesses will struggle to grow sustainably if external society faces challenges. AIS believes in growth through collaboration and public spirit. The ‘Mission Thinking’ project opens up opportunities for employees to share knowledge, create jobs with the public, and work with the government to develop society. We thank the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security for allowing AIS to work together in helping the public. We will continue this commitment, as this project is not just a competition to measure the capabilities of students interested in innovation, but a model project that will create societal change, enhancing the quality of life for the elderly and people with disabilities to sustainably care for themselves. For more details on the 15 ideas, visit www.jumpthailand.com or https://www.facebook.com/AISJumpThailand.”
Spain players celebrate after a semifinal match between Spain and France at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Munich, Germany, Tuesday, July 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)
MUNICH (AP) — Spain reached the European Championship final with a 2-1 victory over France on Tuesday with 16-year-old Lamine Yamal becoming the youngest-ever scorer at the tournament.
France took an early lead when Randal Kolo Muani headed in a cross from Kylian Mbappé, who played without a mask, before Yamal’s moment of brilliance in the 21st minute. Dani Olmo scored what was to prove the winner four minutes later.
“We were in a difficult stretch after not expecting to concede so early. I just took the ball and wanted to put it right there. I am very happy,” Yamal said.
Spain’s Lamine Yamal celebrates his side’s equalising goal during a semifinal match between Spain and France at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Munich, Germany, Tuesday, July 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)
“I don’t try to think about it too much, just enjoy myself and help the team, and if it goes my way, then I am happy (for the goal) and for the win.”
Spain, which is chasing a record fourth European Championship title, will play England or the Netherlands in the final on Sunday in Berlin.
They play each other in Dortmund on Wednesday.
“We knew they were a great team, and they proved it again tonight,” France coach Didier Deschamps said. “Even though we were fortunate to open the scoring, Spain made things difficult for us.
Kylian Mbappe of France reacts after losing a semifinal match between Spain and France at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Munich, Germany, Tuesday, July 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Antonio Calanni)
“They were superior in terms of control and technique. The team that gave the best impression was Spain. So they deserve to win tonight.”
There was surprise in Munich when Mbappé took to the field without the mask he has been wearing since getting his nose broken in France’s opening group game at Euro 2024.
Mbappé had been complaining the mask was impeding him, and ditching it appeared to have an immediate effect as he created the game’s opening goal in the ninth minute with a tantalizing cross to the back post that was headed in by Randal Kolo Muani.
That was the first goal France had scored at Euro 2024 that wasn’t a penalty or an own-goal. Fortunately for Les Bleus they had also been exceptional at the back, allowing just one goal, a retaken penalty by Poland’s Robert Lewandowski in the group stage.
Spain’s Dani Olmo scores his side’s second goal during a semifinal match between Spain and France at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Munich, Germany, Tuesday, July 9, 2024. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit)
But there was no stopping Yamal’s stunning equalizer in the 21st minute as he became the youngest player ever to score at a men’s European Championship when he curled the ball past Mike Maignan and in off the left post from 25 yards.
And Spain turned the match around completely four minutes later when Olmo’s goalbound-shot was turned into his own net by France defender Jules Koundé. It was originally adjudged by UEFA to have been an own-goal but was later awarded to Olmo.
Spain’s Lamine Yamal, left, scores his side’s first goal during a semifinal match between Spain and France at the Euro 2024 soccer tournament in Munich, Germany, Tuesday, July 9, 2024. (Tom Weller/dpa via AP)
“We are very close, just one more step to go. It is incredible what the team is doing. We deserve to be in the final, one step from glory,” Olmo said. “Whether it is my goal, or Koundé’s, it doesn’t matter. A goal is a goal. The important thing is that we are in the final.”
France dominated possession in the second half but couldn’t make it count.
Théo Hernández should have done better when he blazed a good chance over the bar late on, and Mbappé did similar with four minutes remaining.
Spain could have been further ahead between those chances as another powerful strike from Yamal flew narrowly over the crossbar.
Mr. Nawa is arrested in the front of the Royal Thai Police Headquarters near Ratchaprasong intersection, on July 9, 2024.
BANGKOK — Thai Media compared the thief in the case of stealing antiques from his employer to “Arsène Lupin,” like in the famous movie, because he planned to steal valuable items without getting caught for months and managed to sell them on the black market for hundreds of thousands of baht.
On July 9, Police Major General Theeradej Thammasuthee, Commander of the Metropolitan Police Bureau’s Investigation Division, ordered the investigative team to arrest Mr. Nawa Hongsakul, aka Tick, 36 years old.
He was wanted on an arrest warrant from the South Bangkok Criminal Court for theft from a employer using a vehicle to facilitate the crime, transport the stolen goods, or evade arrest, as well as receiving stolen property.
This case began on May 4, 2024, when a fire broke out at the house of Mr. Kritsana, CEO of an advertising company, in the Bang Na Police Station area. The cause was unknown, but forensics concluded it was an electrical short circuit in the ground floor control room.
Two of four framed portraits of King Rama V with royal signatures, over 120 years old and of inestimable family value, have been stolen.
Later, Mr. Kritsana inspected the third floor of the house, where rare pictures were stored. He discovered that four framed portraits of King Rama V with royal signatures, over 120 years old and of inestimable family value, were missing. He reported this to Bang Na Police Station on May 7.
Police questioned four suspects from the household but didn’t call in Mr. Nawa for questioning. This was because Mr. Nawa had only started working as Mr. Kritsana’s driver earlier this year while moving into the house. Previously, he had worked at Mr. Kritsana’s company since 2022. After the pictures went missing, Mr. Nawa continued his driving duties as usual, as if nothing had happened.
Later, Police Major General Theeradej found leads from the black market that antique dealers in Chonburi, Nakhon Pathom, and Nonthaburi provinces had bought the valuable items for a total of 100,000 baht.
Mr. Nawa, aka Tick, a 36-year-old suspect, is surrounded by reporters after being arrested by police officers.
Bang Na Police Station investigators then requested an arrest warrant. They later learned that the suspect was heading to a department store on Phaya Thai Road. They followed Mr. Kritsana’s van from Phan Fa intersection, unsure if Mr. Nawa was driving. When the van reached the front of the Royal Thai Police Headquarters near Ratchaprasong intersection, officers saw Mr. Nawa in the vehicle and immediately arrested him.
Mr. Nawa confessed to stealing his employer’s property to pay off multiple illegal debts.
A background check on Mr. Nawa revealed two prior criminal cases: charges of being a gambling operator or organizer at Samrong Nuea Police Station on June 7, 2015, and charges of violating curfew regulations and driving under the influence of alcohol or other intoxicants in Samrong Nuea Police Station area on September 18, 2021.
Mr. Nawa was then handed over to Bang Na Police Station investigators for further legal proceedings.
The three suspects are arrested and cherged with human trafficking by using threats, coercion, deception and abuse of power to exploit people for forced labor or services, which amounts to enslavement.
BANGKOK — Police arrested a HR group for making false promises and enticing Thais to work as scammers
On July 9, Pol. Maj. Gen. Sarut Kwansopha, commander of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Department (ATPD), ordered the arrest of Mr. Theerapol, also known as Thanapol, 31, and Ms. Aranya, 21, in front of a house in Don Sila, Wiang Chai district, Chiang Rai. They are suspected of luring people with the promise of high salaries as call center agents and then forcing them into fraudulent transactions in Myanmar.
The two suspects are accused of human trafficking by using threats, coercion, deception and abuse of power to exploit people for forced labor or services, which amounts to enslavement. They were arrested outside a residence on Pracha Uthit Road in Bangkok’s Huai Khwang district.
The same charges were also brought against Ms. Natnicha, 31, who is currently detained at the Central Women’s Correctional Institution in Chatuchak district, Bangkok.
In October and November 2023, the Myanmar government, in cooperation with Chinese authorities, launched operations to dismantle Chinese call center fraud rings in Laukkaing, Myanmar. They repatriated 266 Thai victims who had been tricked into working for these scam rings. The victims were screened and segregated under the NRM process.
A view of Laukkaing city in Shan state, Myanmar, Nov. 20, 2023. (Kyaw Ko Lin via AP)
Pol. Col. Patthanapong Sripinprah, Commander of Sub-Division 2, ATPD, was assigned to investigate the call center group led by Fei Yang. The investigation revealed that 11 people were involved, including four Thai recruiters who enticed Thais to work as clerks and answer customer calls with the promise of high salaries of 25,000 to 50,000 baht per month.
Once the victims entered Myanmar, they were arrested and forced to work. They were forced to join the call center scams, which focused on mixed scams by luring victims into romantic relationships and then into investment schemes. Police issued warrants for all 11 suspects, which eventually led to their arrest.
Mr. Theerapol, an assistant to Fei Yang, denied the allegations and claimed that he was merely an employee at an entertainment center in Laukkaing. He claimed to have a romantic relationship with a Chinese man who invited him to live with him and help with translation, and claimed to have nothing to do with the call center scam.
Theerapol is suspected of being an assistant to the Fei Yang call center gang.
Ms. Aranya, who acted as a recruiter and posted fake job advertisements to lure Thais into the call center scam, also denied the allegations. She admitted to using a fake Facebook account to recruit Thais, but claimed not to have known about the scam.
Ms. Natnicha, who is still detained, admitted her role in recruiting Thais for the job but denied knowing about the forced labor aspect. After the investigation, all suspects were handed over to the ATPD’s Sub-Division 2 investigators for further legal action.
BANGKOK — The #SaveThapLan trend and comments supporting forest protection have been spreading across Thai social media since the beginning of the week. This wave followed a campaign by the Seub Nakhasathien Foundation opposing the possible separation of 265,000 rai from the 1.4 million rai of Thap Lan National Park, which would put the area at risk of exploitation by investors.
Many people envision a scenario where the forests inhabited by elephants and other wildlife are severely threatened by human encroachment, which has accelerated the spread of the #SaveThapLan movement.
The origins of the #SaveThapLan trend are related to a public hearing scheduled from 28 June to 12 July. This hearing follows the previous government’s decision to review whether 265,286.58 rai of Thap Lan National Park should be removed from protected forest status and established as part of ‘One Map.’ Of this land, 58,000 rai overlap with existing residential areas.
This broad public engagement, even if it is partly a quick social reaction of many netizens without understanding clear and detailed information, reflects the democratic mechanisms at work in a society that, unlike the period of non-democracy, is open to listening, questioning, and examining.
Thaplan National Park
Importance of Public Hearing
On July 9, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin addressed the issue, stating that it originated from a decision by the previous administration. The National Land Policy Committee (NLPC) was instructed to review the facts, while the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment was directed to adhere to relevant laws.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of conducting public hearings before any land withdrawal, ensuring compliance with various legal procedures, and presenting the matter to the Cabinet for consideration. This includes the way to create ‘One Map.’
Gen. Patcharawat Wongsuwan, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, pointed out that the issue is currently being discussed in public. The government is listening to all voices, including those of the opposition.
After the July 12 deadline, the ministry will compile the submissions and submit them to the National Parks Department for consideration. The aim is to resolve the matter within 30 days, focusing primarily on the 58,000 rai of land belonging to local residents.
Resolve the 40-year-old problem
Atthapol Charoenchansa, Director General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, explained that this problem has been going on for 40 years, since 1981. The area was originally reserved forest before it was declared a national park. It was later allocated to Thai development participants and surrounding communities for agricultural use of the 58,000 rai of Wang Nam Khiao forest.
A villager from Ban Thai Samakkhi, Moo 1, Khum Khlong Krathung, Wang Nam Khiao District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, point to a boundary marker declaring the national park area in 1994, located outside their community.
Later, the national park designation overlapped with this area, which was recognized as an omission by the Ministry of Forestry. This led to the demand to exclude the area from the park. A survey in 2000 aimed to redefine the boundaries but was not finalized, so the land is still considered forest.
Several governments have tried to solve the problem, culminating in a decision by the NLPC to transfer the common land to the Agricultural Land Reform Office (ALRO) and submit it to the Cabinet. The previous cabinet approved the NLPC resolution and excluded people with legal problems from protection and exemptions on the land.
#SaveThapLan trend is positive
Atthapol further mentioned that the public hearing on July 4 and 5 received interest from locals and already garnered hundreds of thousands of online supporters nationwide as part of the #SaveThapLan trend. This public awareness and interest is positive.
All data is reviewed by the National Park Committee within 30 days, taking into account all aspects, including land use and forest protection. The over 200,000 rai include residents, buyers and resort groups involved in 12,000 rai that are the subject of litigation, which requires thorough discussion.
A campaign poster by the Seub Nakhasathien Foundation opposes the removal of 265,286.58 rai of Thap Lan National Park from protected forest status.
When asked if the cabinet decision on March 14, 2023 favors investors who use the land for resorts, Atthapol replied that the government is addressing the issue, maintaining the land as state property and requiring users to meet certain conditions. Those who acquire the land illegally will get it back.
Meanwhile, Capt. Thammanat Prompao, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, stated that his ministry was not involved in the matter and emphasized that it was not within the jurisdiction of the current government. As the regulatory body of ALRO, which is responsible for land distribution to farmers, it will abide by the guidelines, but the current moves do not fall under the purview of ALRO.
Panudet Kerdmali, chairman of the Seub Nakhasathien Foundation, warned that Thailand, whose land is 40 percent forest, must carefully consider any land withdrawal to avoid setting a precedent for future private gains that could potentially lead to the removal of other protected areas.
Consider each context differently
Poonsak Chanjampi, a Move Forward Party MP and Chairman of the Committee on Land, Natural Resources, and Environment, stated that in managing forest areas, especially in national park zones, we must consider each context differently. In the Thap Lan National Park area, there are three overlapping groups of people:
The first group consists of people who lived there before the national park was declared in 1981. The second group includes those who received Agricultural Land Reform Office (ALRO) rights and were permitted to make a living in ALRO areas. The third group comprises those who entered after the national park was declared, resulting in legal cases. As far as we know, there are over 400 cases where the National Parks Department has sued encroachers.
Poonsak continued that we must handle each of these three groups differently. We can’t lump everything together and declare the entire area as a national park because the first group of people would lose their rights.
“We must acknowledge that the rights of people who lived in the forest area before must be proven. This verification process may be somewhat delayed, but it’s worthwhile for the people who have been waiting for these rights since 1981 – over 40 years now. They should be granted their rights as well,” he said.
BANGKOK — N.C.C. Management and Development Company Limited or NCC, the operator of the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), announced the return of the ’12th August Half Marathon Bangkok 2024′ for its 29th edition.
In collaboration with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, Thai Beverage Public Company Limited, and various public and private agencies, NCC is organizing this legendary charity run in Thailand to honor Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, on her 92nd Birthday Anniversary.
The event also aims to promote health and strengthen family bonds, providing an opportunity for family members to spend valuable time together. All proceeds after expenses will be donated to the Queen Sirikit Centre for Breast Cancer (QSCBC), based at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital, under the auspices of the Thai Red Cross Society. The event will take place on Saturday, August 12, 2024, at QSNCC.
Mr. Surapol Utintu, Chief Executive Officer of QSNCC stated that for the 29th ’12th August Half Marathon Bangkok 2024,’ we have received positive feedback from various sectors, resulting in increased support and participant registrations. It is encouraging to see sectors paying attention to and recognizing the importance of exercise and healthcare.
This year, NCC is well-prepared with the event venue and facilities at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, nestled in the heart of Bangkok alongside the natural beauty of Benjakitti Park, known as Bangkok’s green lung.
Participants can enjoy family activities and utilize the center’s amenities. After the run, participants can visit QSNCC to enjoy a variety of amenities, including restaurants, cafes, a spa, a sportswear outlet, and a convenient Shower Station service, designed for the active lifestyle of runners.
The 12th August Half Marathon Bangkok 2024” welcomes 5,000 runners across four categories: a 21.1 km half-marathon, a 10 km mini-marathon, a 6 km fun run, and a 1.8 km run/walk in Benjakitti Park. The half-marathon, known for its challenge, includes six bridges for elite runners.
“This year we’ve partnered with Warrix, a leading sportswear manufacturer renowned for high-quality running apparel, to ensure lightweight and comfortable shirts for all participants,” he said.
Event highlights feature themed prizes like ‘Bonding between Mother and Child’ for stylish runners, appearances by GMM TV artists, influencers, and a variety of special activities.
To participate in the race, sign up at www.jogandjoy.run or at information counter near MRT exit, level LG, QSNCC. ‘The 12th August Half Marathon Expo’ takes place on August 9-11, 2024.
MOU signing ceremony between Thoresen Thai Agencies Public Co., Ltd. and Xiamen King Long United Automotive Industry Co., Ltd. on July 9, 2024.
BANGKOK — King Long has stepped into the Thai EV market with a sales target of 1,000 vehicles in the first year.
Thoresen Thai Agencies (TTA) teamed up with King Long to enter the Thai EV market, targets commercial electric pickup customers, and aims to sell 1,000 vehicles in the first year. The first showroom in the suburban area was opened recently, and distributor partners were selected.
On July 9, 2024, Thoresen Thai Agencies Public Co., Ltd., or TTA, a leading company in strategic investment, teamed up with Xiamen King Long United Automotive Industry Co., Ltd., a major player in the electric vehicle (EV) market from China, to launch the electric pickup truck market for commercial use in Thailand under the theme “Together For EV-lization.”
They aim to fully join the EV market, targeting sales of 1,000 vehicles in the first year, while also planning to collaborate on opening the first EV pickup truck showroom in Thailand’s suburban area.
President and Chief Executive Officer of Thoresen Thai Agencies Public Co., Ltd. Chalermchai Mahagitsiri revealed TTA and King Long are collaborating to develop electric pickup trucks. This year, they will commence market entry with a 1-ton commercial pickup model. The initial model to be released is a single-cab pickup aimed at Thailand’s commercial transport and logistics operators. It will be available for both fleet and retail sales.
“We began with the model in highest demand, which is commercial vehicles, and then gradually expanded to cover every segment later on. We chose to collaborate with King Long because King Long is a leading electric vehicle manufacturer in China with advanced electric vehicle production technology, expertise in design, and over 30 years of experience in commercial vehicle manufacturing.”
TTA’s investment policy focuses on sustainable business growth through the “Smart Growth & Sustainability” concept. As part of its strategy to expand its investment portfolio in the clean energy business sector, TTA is partnering with King Long to introduce electric pickup trucks into the Thai market.
“Entering the electric vehicle business is a significant step for us in advancing TTA’s transportation and logistics experience. We have established P80 Go Co., Ltd. to invest in electric vehicle ventures and distribute electric pickup trucks under the ‘King Long’ brand.”
The King Long electric pickup trucks, resulting from a collaboration between TTA and King Long, are specifically designed for short to medium-range operations. They are well-suited for commercial use throughout Thailand. These trucks have undergone rigorous testing to ensure compliance with the country’s environmental standards and meet user needs.
Liu Zhijun, Chairman of Xiamen King Long United Automotive Industry Co., Ltd., stated, “The electric vehicle market in Thailand holds immense potential, whether for personal cars, commercial vehicles, or other types of vehicles. We mainly focus on introducing electric pickup trucks suitable for commercial use into this market.
We prioritize developing environmentally friendly and suitable technology for the Thai market’s needs, emphasizing efficiency, durability, cost-effectiveness, and low maintenance. Our goal is to sell 1,000 units in the first year after entering the market.”
TTA and King Long are dedicated to becoming strong business partners to revolutionize Thailand’s commercial transportation sector with electric systems, propelling the country towards sustainable transport.
Meanwhile, P80 Go Co., Ltd. has recently opened the first showroom for King Long’s electric pickup in the suburban area. They are currently in the process of choosing dealership partners in anticipation of the upcoming official launch in Thailand. This commercial electric pickup promises customers substantial advantages, including cost savings, long-lasting durability, eco-friendliness, low maintenance expenses, and cutting-edge technology.
CCTV footage captured the suspect visiting the gold shop to scout the location before committing the crime.
CHIANG MAI — Gold shop robberies continue to occur in Thailand. Despite police consistently arresting criminals, some still risk committing these crimes. The latest case in Chiang Mai Province was more violent and brutal than typical gold shop robberies, as the perpetrator intentionally murdered someone.
Niphitphon, age 26, residing in Chiang Mai’s Doi Saket district, confessed to the police that he had planned the gold heist for over 1 year and 2 months. He hoped to give the money to his parents, who had previously lost money to gold trading scam and were heavily in debt. However, his plan unraveled in just one day.
On July 9, Pol. Maj. Gen. Weerachon Boonthawee, Deputy Commander of Provincial Police Region 5, stated that the quick arrest was fortunate as the suspect had plans to flee abroad. Evidence from the suspect’s phone showed he had surveyed the forest route multiple times and calculated travel times between various points.
The suspect is brought into the interrogation room at Mae Ping Police Station, Chiang Mai province, on July 9, 2024.
“The suspect had detailed plans A, B, and C, but things didn’t go as expected because he failed to conceal the vehicle, only disguising himself,” Pol. Maj. Gen. Weerachon said.
According to investigation, in the early morning of Monday, July 8, Niphitphon drove his white-gray Toyota to park at Kad Gala in Mueang Chiang Mai district. He then walked along a nature trail to Doi Suthep, about 2 km before reaching Wat Pha Lat temple.
At 5 a.m., he called a Grab taxi. When he got into the back seat, he shot the driver in the back of the head, killing him instantly. He then dragged the body and dumped it off a cliff on Doi Suthep.
He then drove the victim’s white Toyota Altis to rob a gold shop in a downtown department store. After obtaining 80 baht weight of gold ornaments worth about 3 million baht, he drove back to the body dump site on Doi Suthep and walked back to his own car at Kad Gala.
Police find the car stolen by the suspect for the gold shop robbery parked near the spot where he murdered the Grab driver on July 8, 2024.
He then drove around trying to sell the gold at various shops. The first three shops in the city refused to buy, suspecting it might be related to the gold shop robbery news. He then drove to the more distant San Kamphaeng district and managed to sell gold for about 70,000 baht, which he immediately transferred to his parents’ accounts.
At 7:00 p.m., based on a tip from a gold shop, police arrested Niphitphon at his residence. Evidence seized included a 9mm gun used to shoot the victim, clothes worn during the robbery, gold ornaments, and his car.
Pol. Lt. Gen. Kritthaphon Yisakhon, Commander of Provincial Police Region 5, interrogated Niphitphon at Phuping Chiang Mai Police Station. He revealed that Niphitphon had studied science at university but dropped out in his second year and was an avid gamer. He had planned the crime for 1 year and 2 months to help his parents pay off 10 million baht in debt. Before the robbery, he had scouted the gold shop, as evidenced by CCTV footage.
The suspect, wearing a Grab employee uniform, swept gold necklaces from a gold shop located in a department store in downtown Chiang Mai on July 8.
The suspect confessed to all charges, including premeditated murder for robbery, vehicle theft, concealing and destroying a corpse, illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, and snatching property.
When police took the suspect to reenact the crime and identify the body dump site, relatives of the Grab driver hurled curses and attempted to lynch him. Police quickly intervened and removed the suspect from the scene.
Rescue workers retrieved the body from the ravine and sent it to the forensic department at Maharaj Hospital. The deceased was identified as Acting Sub Lt. Suthep Chainanta, 48, who had previously worked in Rayong province but resigned to care for his 80-year-old ailing mother, working as a trainer and Grab driver for extra income.
Rescue workers retrieve the body of the Grab driver who was shot in the back of the head by the suspect and thrown into a deep ravine.
The investigation revealed that the victim was randomly selected and had no prior connection or conflict with the suspect. He often took early morning jobs due to less competition and would nap at gas stations between rides.
The suspect’s parents visited their son on Tuesday during questioning and apologized to the media for their son’s actions. They confirmed that they had indeed lost 10 million baht in a gold trading scam 4-5 years ago, despite their son’s warnings at the time. Since then, the family had managed to continue living, though less comfortably. The son wasn’t working but cared for his mother, who gave him a monthly allowance of 15,000-20,000 baht.
The mother expressed shock at her son’s actions, describing him as polite and quiet but addicted to violent strategy and combat games since childhood. On the day of the incident, he behaved normally at home. They advised him to tell the full truth to potentially reduce his sentence but worried he might harm himself in custody.
“We deeply apologize and express our sincere condolences to the victim’s family. We will definitely go to pay respects and ask for forgiveness on behalf of our son,” the suspect’s mother said.
Cannabis farmers and supporters of marijuana for recreational purposes marched to the Government House to camp out on Monday afternoon, July 8, 2024.
BANGKOK — The battle between anti-cannabis and pro-cannabis groups has intensified once again since the Committee for the Control of Narcotic Drugs approved the reclassification of hemp and cannabis as narcotics on July 5, 2024.
Pro-cannabis advocates gathered to push for a Cannabis Act and oppose reclassification as a narcotic, as it reversed the decriminalization from June 9, 2022.
On July 8, about 100 members of the Thai Cannabis Future Network, led by Prasitchai Noonuan, the network’s secretary-general, marched from the United Nations headquarters on Ratchadamnoen Road to the front of Government House to submit a proposal to the government. They called for cannabis to be regulated under a special cannabis law to resolve conflicts according to international standards.
Prasitchai explained that the network has proposed forming a joint committee to research cannabis in four dimensions:
Whether cannabis poses more health risks than cigarettes and alcohol.
Whether cannabis has caused more severe social harm in the last two years compared to cigarettes and alcohol.
Whether the medicinal properties of cannabis are superior to those of cigarettes and alcohol.
Whether cannabis actually causes psychiatric disorders and brain damage in young people, as claimed by the government.
Cannabis plants that protesters arranged along the police barricade near the Government House on July 8, 2024.
Once the research is complete, the results should determine the legal status of cannabis. If cannabis is found to be no more harmful than cigarettes and alcohol and is not a cause of psychiatric disorders or brain damage, it should be regulated under a cannabis law. If it proves to be more harmful, it should come under the Narcotics Act.
Prasitchai also urged Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to adhere to international principles to resolve the conflict by setting up a joint committee to investigate before control measures are determined. He emphasized the importance of clarifying who misled the public.
“From now on, we will expose the connections between business groups and government officials, especially those of the Pheu Thai Party, including Somsak Thepsutin and Srettha Thavisin, and their relationships with the party’s influential figures. We will expose their connections and the real motives behind calling for cannabis to be reclassified as a narcotic without really caring about public safety,” Prasitchai said.
A worker tends to cannabis plants at a farm in Chonburi province, eastern Thailand on June 5, 2022. Photo: Sakchai Lalit / AP
Hiranrat Mahadisthadakul, a director and secretary of the Hemp and Cannabis Industry Association (HCIA), told Matichon that the association, which has over 20 member companies with investments of over 5 billion baht, does not support the reclassification of cannabis and hemp as narcotics. They prefer regulation under a special cannabis law for more business flexibility.
She said that the existence of a cannabis law allows for more flexible business activity than a return to narcotic status. We want to get on with the cannabis law and avoid excessive political interference. We have invested on the basis of clear government policy, not the policy of a particular party.
“If cannabis is reclassified as a narcotic, it would be a step backwards. HCIA has no confidence in the new government’s approach unless it comes from the Pheu Thai Party. Many entrepreneurs have expressed that they no longer want to stay in this business. Our group has been a driving force in this industry, but we have never received protection from the government. We were left to fend for ourselves,” she added.
Cannabis farmers and supporters of marijuana for recreational purposes marched to the Government House to camp out on Monday afternoon, July 8, 2024.
Hiranrat explained that while most companies focus on hemp, reclassifying cannabis and hemp as narcotics would affect investor confidence. Although hemp and cannabis are considered part of the same family, their active ingredients differ.
Hemp contains CBD, which is useful for industrial and commercial purposes, such as CBD oil, beverages and cosmetics. Cannabis contains THC, which has medicinal benefits. The public does not know enough about cannabis and often confuses CBD-containing products with intoxicating cannabis products. Therefore, the government needs to educate the public more.
She emphasized the importance of government dialog with the industry when reclassification is necessary, as past policy uncertainties have led to significant losses for entrepreneurs. The association wants clarity on whether the Cannabis Act will continue and what the future status of cannabis and hemp will be.
A staff member of a cannabis shop uses his mobile outside the shop in Bangkok, Thailand, Wednesday, May 15, 2024. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)
Although the government promotes cannabis for health and hemp for business, the actual practice is different. The private sector cannot extract cannabis flowers because the law does not allow it. Only government agencies can do this in collaboration with private entities, which comes with many strings attached. This prevents the midstream process from entering the economic cycle. Reclassifying cannabis as a narcotic would exacerbate this problem, Hiranrats concluded.
“We see great business potential for cannabis in the global market. However, with the ever- changing policy, we are unsure of the direction the government is taking. If this continues, businesses will not be able to survive,” she said.
