Debt Dispute Leads to 6 Deaths in Bangkok Hotel Poisoned by Cyanide

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17 July 2024, 16:28

BANGKOK — The investigation into the deaths of six Vietnamese and American guests found in a luxury hotel at Ratchaprasong intersection in downtown Bangkok on July 16, which involved cooperation between Thai police, Vietnamese authorities, and the FBI, has gradually revealed a clear cause.

It appears to be the work of one of the six individuals who poisoned drinks with cyanide due to a debt problem of over 278,000 US dollars.

On July 17, Police Major General Noppasilp Poolsawat, Deputy Commander of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, along with Police Lieutenant General Trairong Phiwphan, Commander of the Office of Forensic Science Police, and Police Major General Thiradej Thamsuthee, Commander of the Investigation Division of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, held a press conference to update on the investigation progress.

6bodies conference — High-ranking police officers involved in the investigation of the deaths of six foreigners in a luxury hotel in central Bangkok hold a press conference to update on the investigation progress on July 17, 2024.

They stated that the police had conducted autopsies, collected evidence, and interrogated more than 10 relevant witnesses, including relatives of the deceased. They also examined 8 pieces of luggage. The findings can be summarized as follows:

1) Ms. Sherine Chong, age 56, American nationality: Found dead near the dining table. Entered Thailand on July 5 at 1:05 p.m. from Ho Chi Minh City. Had visited Thailand 5 times before. She was the one who checked into room 502, where the incident occurred.

2) Ms. Thi Nguyen Phunng Lan, age 47, Vietnamese nationality: Wearing a pink shirt, found dead in the bedroom. Entered Thailand on July 4 at 12:56 p.m. from Danang. Had visited Thailand 17 times before.

3) Mr. Dinh Tran Phu, age 37, Vietnamese nationality: Found dead near Ms. Thi Nguyen Phunng Lan and Mr. Hung Dang Van. Entered Thailand on July 12 at 12:28 p.m. from Danang. Had visited Thailand 11 times before.

4) Mr. Hung Dang Van, age 55, American nationality: Wearing a navy blue shirt, found dead near Ms. Thi Nguyen Phunng Lan. Entered Thailand for the first time on July 7 at 09:55 a.m. from Taipei, Taiwan.

5) Ms. Thi Nguyen Phuong, age 46, Vietnamese nationality: Wearing a white shirt, found dead near the room’s door. Entered Thailand on July 12 at 1:48 p.m. from Ho Chi Minh City. Had visited Thailand 3 times before.

6) Mr. Hong Pham Thanh, age 49, Vietnamese nationality: Husband of Ms. Thi Nguyen Phuong, found dead in the bedroom. Entered Thailand for the first time, arriving with his wife on July 12 at 1:48 p.m. from Ho Chi Minh City. His name did not appear on the hotel check-in list as his wife’s name was used for the room reservation.

6bodies evidence5 — Tea bags containing traces of cyanide being examined by forensic officials

CCTV footage from the hotel showed that all individuals checked in by themselves, and no other persons entered the room. The footage from July 14-15, during the timeline of the incident, confirms that no one other than these six people entered room 502, except for the food service staff who have provided complete information.

Events from July 14 show that Ms. Sherine Chong was staying in the room where the incident occurred. The other five people came to this room between 11:00 p.m. and midnight, then returned to their own rooms.

On July 15, after checking out of their other rooms, they all moved their luggage to room 502. At 11:42 a.m., Mr. Hung Dang Van ordered food from the hotel: 5 plates of fried rice, 4 plates of tom yum kung, 4 plates of stir-fried vegetables, 1 plate of stir-fried morning glory, 2 pots of hot English tea, and 6 tea cups.

Later, Mr. Dinh Tran Phu ordered an additional plate of fried rice, requesting delivery at 2:00 p.m. The room service staff delivered the food at 1:51 p.m., spending 6 minutes serving the food.

6bodies evidence2 — Plates of untouched single-dish Thai meals in the living room.

According to the room service staff’s testimony, upon entering, they found only Ms. Sherine Chong. When the staff offered to brew the tea, Ms. Sherine Chong declined, saying she would handle it herself. The staff noted that Ms. Sherine Chong appeared quite stressed and wasn’t smiling, even when the staff complimented her outfit.

After the room service staff left at 1:57 p.m., from 2:03 p.m. onwards, the other deceased individuals gradually entered room 502. After that, no one was seen entering or leaving the room until the bodies were discovered.

The bodies were discovered on July 16 at 4:30 p.m. when hotel staff went to check the room as it was past check-out time.

Forensic results revealed cyanide in the liquid from the tea kettle, residue in all 6 coffee cups, and in the blood sample of one of the deceased.

6bodies evidence7 — Five tea cups containing cyanide poison in the suspect’s hotel room, all of which were drunk.

Relatives of some of the deceased have been questioned and provided information about conflicts within the group. They believe that one of the six was responsible for the incident.

According to relatives, Ms. Sherine Chong had Ms. Thi Nguyen Phunng Lan act as a broker to persuade Ms. Thi Nguyen Phuong and Mr. Hong Pham Thanh, who are husband and wife and road construction contractors in Vietnam, to invest 278,000 US dollars (about 10 million Thai baht) in building a hospital in Japan.

When there was no progress on the investment, the couple began constantly asking Ms. Sherine Chong for their money back. They initially agreed to meet in Japan to resolve the issue, but when one person couldn’t get a visa, they changed the meeting place to Thailand. They chose Thailand because they could also pay respects at Wat Yannawa in Bangkok, which is a popular place for Vietnamese people.

For Mr. Dinh Tran Phu and Mr. Hung Dang Van, the situation is still unclear. These two had not yet invested money but it’s believed they were also invited to discuss potential investments. It was found that Ms. Sherine Chong made the room reservation for Mr. Hung Dang Van, but he used his own credit card for the booking.

The examination of the 8 pieces of luggage belonging to the deceased did not reveal anything illegal. It’s confirmed that the incident was due to personal conflicts among the six individuals and not related to any transnational criminal organization.

Pol. Maj. Gen. Phantana Nutchanart, Deputy Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, stated that they are coordinating with the Vietnamese and US embassies for more information. The FBI has requested information, but the investigation remains with the Thai police.

“It’s confirmed that none of the deceased had any arrest warrants or criminal records.”

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Royal Bangkok Symphony to Honor King’s 72nd Birthday with ‘Madama Butterfly’

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17 July 2024, 13:35

On the auspicious occasion of His Majesty the King’s 72nd birthday anniversary on July 28, 2024, the Office of the Prime Minister, Ministry of Culture, and the Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra Foundation under the patronage of Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya have organized an opera performance of “Madama Butterfly” on Tuesday, July 23, and Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at the Main Auditorium, Thailand Cultural Centre.

Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, the foundation’s patron, has envisioned the foundation organizing the opera “Madama Butterfly,” composed by Italian Giacomo Puccini with Italian libretto by Luigi Illica and Giuseppe Giacosa.

This opera tells the tragic love story of a Japanese geisha and an American naval officer, highlighting themes of love and honor. Premiered at La Scala in Milan, Italy, in 1904, it remains one of the world’s most frequently performed operas.

For this performance, Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari serves as Executive Producer, selecting the cast from Opera Production in Vienna. Auditions were held for roles such as Mother, Aunt, Cousin, Geishas, Relative and Servants, and chorus members.

The entire wardrobe for the production has been newly designed, with Her Royal Highness herself designing 14 costumes for the nine main characters: Cio-Cio San (the heroine), Pinkerton (the hero), Suzuki (the maid), Yamadori (the prince), Kate Pinkerton (the new wife), Bonzo (the Japanese priest), Goro (the matchmaker), Sharpless (the hero’s friend), and the Commissario (the Japanese nobleman). An additional 40 costumes were designed by the SIRIVANNAVARI team under her direction.

The cast from Opera Production includes leading European opera singers such as Viktorija Miskunaite and Laura del Rio (Soprano) as Madama Butterfly, Gianluca Terranova (Tenor) as B.F. Pinkerton, Alissandra Volpe (Mezzo-Soprano) as Suzuki, Massimo Cavalletti (Baritone) as Sharpless, and Orlando Polidoro (Tenor). They are joined by three renowned Thai opera singers. The Royal Bangkok Symphony Orchestra will perform, conducted by German conductor Valentin Egel.

Ratiros Chulachart, Vice President of Iris 2005 Co., Ltd., and executive of the SIRIVANNAVARI brand, stated, “The SIRIVANNAVARI brand, founded and creatively directed by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari, is honored to be part of this world-class opera performance in celebration of this auspicious royal birthday. It is the first high-end fashion brand in East Asia to design costumes for a world-class opera ensemble. This is a pinnacle of cultural expression that spans over a century.

The design concept incorporates both Western and Eastern elements, referencing traditional Japanese attire and historical military uniforms with contemporary interpretations. Colors, embroidery, and symbolic patterns convey stories of love, sorrow, and the passage of time, dramatized perfectly with RBSO’s grand music, powerful vocals, and world-class stage production.”

The SIRIVANNAVARI brand, through its designer, has created 14 costumes for the nine main characters, blending traditional Japanese and Western styles. For the Japanese female characters, the design adapts pieces from the Spring/Summer 2022 “Rise of Asia” collection, inspired by Japanese culture’s golden age. These designs are enhanced for stage presence with reflective embroidery, voluminous skirts, and traditional layering, referencing geisha and traditional village attire.

Western female characters’ costumes are contemporary with added symbolic elements like color and pattern to represent characters’ age and personality. For example, the Japanese heroine’s costumes use soft tones, while the new Western wife’s costumes are in darker shades with structured designs, incorporating symbolic embroidery like peonies and cherry blossoms for the Japanese heroine and roses for the Western wife.

Men’s costumes are divided into Western and Japanese groups. Western male characters wear traditional suits with elements of naval uniforms made from linen, reflecting the American naval officer’s journey to Asia.

These designs feature newly created elements like sleeve bands, buttons, and insignia, allowing the audience to infer character backgrounds. Japanese male characters’ costumes are also adapted from the “Rise of Asia” collection, combining traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern interpretations through structure, pattern, and technique. These costumes play a crucial role in depicting the Asian and Western cultures and characters’ social status, aiding the audience’s understanding of the Italian opera.

Supporting cast costumes, such as for the chorus, are designed in white to serve as a backdrop for the stage. The stage design, directed by the designer, incorporates modern elements with symbolic meanings. The opening scene features a tree symbolizing Japan, with the hero and heroine meeting in summer, when cherry blossoms are budding.

The tree’s leaves fall in autumn and bloom again in spring, reflecting Japanese charm with a modern twist to enhance the opera’s atmosphere. Lighting plays a significant role in drawing the audience’s emotions.

Marriott Bonvoy’s Charity Golf Day Swings Back Into Phuket for a Brighter Tomorrow

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17 July 2024, 13:32

Thailand’s biggest charity golf event returns to the Blue Canyon Country Club on October 18, 2024, to raise funds for two local children’s charities: Save the Children and Operation Smile Thailand

Bangkok, Thailand: July 2024 – Marriott Bonvoy®, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and marketplace, has reaffirmed its commitment to creating a brighter future for communities in Thailand with the announcement that the Marriott Bonvoy Charity Golf Day will return to Phuket this October, to raise vital funds for disadvantaged local children and their families.

On Friday, October 18, 2024, this important annual sporting event will welcome golfers to Phuket’s Blue Canyon Country Club (Lake Course) for its third annual edition. Attracting participants from all across the region, Thailand’s biggest charity golf event has so far generated over THB 5 million for its charitable partners. This year, all proceeds will be donated to Save the Children and Operation Smile Thailand.

This fun-filled day of sport will commence with welcome drinks and the chance to meet fellow golfers, followed by a group photo session. The Marriott Bonvoy Charity Golf Day competitions will then get underway with a shotgun start, as the players simultaneously tee off from different holes.

Throughout the day, all participants will enjoy fantastic food and cool drinks from Marriott Bonvoy on Wheels, the vibrant food trucks and carts from Marriott Bonvoy’s resorts in Phuket and Phang Nga, plus entertainment, competitions and special surprises across all 18 holes! This action-packed event then concludes with an awards ceremony and glittering charity gala dinner, including some additional surprises and exclusive gifts.

“We are delighted to announce the return of the Marriott Bonvoy Charity Golf Day for its third consecutive edition. Marriott’s Business Councils are committed to improving the lives of local people wherever we operate. In its two previous years, this popular event has already helped to make a significant difference to young people by raising millions of baht for our charitable partners. We are proud to be working hand-in-hand with Save the Children and Operation Smile Thailand to create a brighter future for young people in Thailand,” said Mr. Daryn Hudson, Co-Chair of Marriott’s International Business Councils Thailand, and General Manager at Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort.

“Ever since it was first staged in 2022, the Marriott Bonvoy Charity Golf Day has become the biggest charitable golf event in Thailand and an integral part of our CSR efforts. It is a wonderful way to bring like-minded professionals, partners and colleagues together in a social and engaging atmosphere, while also raising much-needed funds for a highly worthwhile cause. This underscores our company’s Serve360 commitment to ‘doing good in every direction’,” commented Mr. Brad Edman, Market Vice President – Thailand, Cambodia & Myanmar, Marriott International.

The Marriott Bonvoy Charity Golf Day is priced at just THB 4,800 per person, including green fees, entry to the gala dinner and more! Registration is now open at www.golfgenius.com/ggid/mbth2024.

To book your stay with Marriott Bonvoy’s world-class resorts in Phuket, please visit https://www.marriott.com/en/destinations/phuket.mi

Fairfield by Marriott Is Looking for an Aspiring Road Trip Reporter

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17 July 2024, 13:30

A Fully Sponsored 30-day Journey Across Japan Awaits a Travel Enthusiast and Storyteller SINGAPORE, 15 July 2024 – Do you love Japan and are craving an adventure beyond the usual tourist spots? It’s time to embark on an opportunity of a lifetime! Fairfield by Marriott, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of over 30 extraordinary hotel brands, today launches a month-long search for its first-ever ‘Road Trip Reporter’, to co-develop content about the unrivaled adventures that await across Japan’s sprawling, less-traveled countryside. Open to passionate travelers worldwide, the successful applicant will enjoy a 30-day “work trip” that will involve uncovering hidden cultural and historical gems, while experiencing the comfort and warm hospitality of Fairfield by Marriott hotels, with all expenses paid and entitlements valued at over US$10,000.

“Japan has grown to become one of the world’s most sought-after destinations, but beyond its bustling cities are lesser-known prefectures full of captivating attractions, culinary experiences, and untouched nature,” explains John Toomey, Marriott International’s Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, Asia Pacific excluding China. “Marriott Bonvoy’s always believed in the power of travel and that’s why we’re excited to offer the opportunity for a ‘Road Trip Reporter’ to live and breathe the “Michi-no-Eki” lifestyle with Fairfield by Marriott, and reveal the uncharted adventures beyond Japan’s beaten paths.”

For travelers excited to make their passion more than just a hobby, the contract will see the ‘Road Trip Reporter’ chronicling their thrilling adventures across 14 prefectures in Japan, co-developing experiential website and social media content for the brand’s Michi-no-Eki project, highlighting experiences along the way like food and beverage recommendations, top sights and attractions to visit, Fairfield by Marriott’s offerings and more. A one-month self-drive itinerary will be thoughtfully curated by local insiders from Fairfield by Marriott, including nostalgic excursions to Kyoto’s old towns of Kinosaki and Izushi, visits to vast flower fields and wineries of Hiroshima’s Sera, and more. All-inclusive stays will be arranged at the project’s 29 newly opened hotels, situated beside roadside stations known locally as “Michi-no-Eki” and providing the ideal rest point to discover nearby national parks, UNESCO World Heritage sites and attractions.

In return for sharing their discoveries with fellow travelers, the ‘Road Trip Reporter’ will receive attractive entitlements and remuneration that include:

Accommodation for 30 days at Fairfield by Marriott hotels
Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner, showcasing the diverse flavors of Japan
Round-trip airfare
Curated itinerary of experiences
Self-drive car and reclaimable petrol fees
A project fee of US$5,000 for developing content and visual assets, and related usage rights

Excited to embark on The World’s Coolest Commute? Applications to become Fairfield by Marriott’s ‘Road Trip Reporter’ are open from 15 July to 15 August 2024.

Entries must include:

A recent travel story you’ve written (up to 500 words) in English with accompanying visual moments captured
One-liner response to this question: What motivates you to be Fairfield’s Road Trip Reporter?
Link to blog and/or social media pages
Personal details, including name, age, country of origin and confirmation of driving permit
Open to English and/or Japanese language writers over 18 years old

For more details visit https://fairfield-michinoeki-japan.com/information/fairfield-roadtripreporter

Interested applicants can submit their entries to [email protected]. Terms and conditions apply.

One of Six Dead Suspected of Group Poisoning at Bangkok Hotel

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17 July 2024, 11:18

6bodies-suspect — Ms. Sherine Chong, 56, a US passport holder, is suspected of poisoning five other people and also taking her own life by drinking poison in a luxury hotel in Bangkok.

BANGKOK — Thai police have uncovered the circumstances surrounding the deaths of 6 foreign tourists in a luxury hotel in central Bangkok. It is presumed that one person among this group of 6 administered a drug more potent than cyanide due to debt problems.

On July 17 at Lumpini Police Station, Police Major General Thiradej Thammasuthee, Commander of the Investigation Division of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, arrived for a meeting. He revealed that last night, they had interviewed the daughter of one of the six deceased individuals, as well as additional witnesses. Each person provided useful information.

According to the information, it is believed that the motive was likely related to debt issues, with no other factors involved. The room on the 5th floor was locked from the inside and there was no record of anyone entering or leaving the locked room.

6bodies lugguage — The luggage of the 6 deceased individuals found in a room of a luxury hotel in central Bangkok was moved by police officers to Lumpini Police Station for examination in the early hours of July 17, 2024.

Therefore, the perpetrator is not thought to be connected to anyone outside of the six deceased individuals, as checks on room entry and exit showed only the group of deceased persons.

Regarding the toxic substance that caused the deaths, it cannot yet be concluded what type of substance it was. They must wait for forensic experts to examine the evidence first.

However, there are reports from forensic officials that the substance found in the glasses resembles cyanide but is more potent, causing rapid death.

6bodies evidence1 — There are 6 cups of what appears to be mixed drinks – 5 on a tray and 1 on a table, with residue, inside the room where 6 foreign bodies were found.

As for the investigation into the seventh person who booked the hotel room where the incident occurred, the Immigration Bureau has traced this individual and found that she is the sister of one of the six deceased. She had flown back to her country on July 10. Initially, it is presumed that she was not involved in the deaths.

It is suspected that the deaths were caused by one of the six deceased individuals, who drugged everyone else before dying last. Later, sources disclosed that the suspect was Ms. Sherine Chong, 56, who was a US passport holder and had a record of entering and exiting Thailand 5 times. She also took her own life by drinking poison.

The motive stemmed from her huge debt after she persuaded the couple in this group to invest in building a hospital in Japan. However, they ended up losing 10 million baht (or about 278,000 US dollars).

This married couple had been constantly asking her for their money back. Eventually, both parties agreed to meet in Japan to clear things up, but one person couldn’t get a visa to Japan. So they changed the meeting place to Thailand, where they could also pay respects at Wat Yannawa, which is a popular place for Vietnamese people as well.

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GULF’s Sarath Outlines Merger with INTUCH to Boost Business Leadership

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17 July 2024, 01:54

BANGKOK — Gulf Energy Development Public Company Limited (GULF) and Intouch Holdings Public Company Limited (INTUCH) have announced their amalgamation to optimize the structure of related companies for maximum benefit in future management and investment operations, as well as to reduce the duplication of shareholding structures and extend growth opportunities in energy & infrastructure and digital businesses.

The two companies have agreed to enter into the following transactions:

The amalgamation between GULF and INTUCH to establish a new company (NewCo) listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand.
A Conditional Voluntary Tender Offer (VTO) for all securities of Advanced Info Service Public Company Limited (ADVANC).
A VTO for common shares of Thaicom Public Company Limited (THCOM) (collectively referred to as the “Restructuring Transaction”).

On July 16, 2024, the Boards of Directors of GULF and INTUCH resolved to propose to the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders on October 3, 2024, to consider and approve the agenda items related to the Restructuring Transaction. The share allocation ratio in NewCo for GULF and INTUCH shareholders will be as follows:

1 GULF share for 1.02974 shares in NewCo
1 INTUCH share for 1.69335 shares in NewCo (excluding the 47.37% shares in INTUCH held by GULF, as they will be directly allocated to GULF shareholders)

After obtaining shareholder approval and before the company amalgamation, tender offers will be made during approximately Q4 2024 – Q1 2025, consisting of:

A tender offer for 36.25% of ADVANC’s common shares by GULF, INTUCH, Singtel Strategic Investments Pte. Ltd. (SSI), and Mr. Sarath Ratanavadi at 216.3 baht/share, totaling approximately 233,201 million baht.
A tender offer for 58.86% of THCOM’s common shares by GULF, Gulf Edge Co., Ltd. (a GULF subsidiary), INTUCH, and Mr. Sarath Ratanavadi at 11.0 baht/share, totaling approximately 7,097 million baht.

These tender offers are made on behalf of NewCo with a technical obligation after the new company’s establishment. The results of these tender offers will not affect the aforementioned share allocation ratio in NewCo.

As part of the transaction, INTUCH’s Board of Directors has considered in principle to pay a special dividend from the company’s retained earnings of 4.5 baht per share. The record date and payment date for this special dividend are expected to occur after the completion of share purchases from dissenting shareholders and before the completion of the amalgamation transaction.

Sarath Ratanavadi, Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Energy Development Public Company Limited, stated that the amalgamation of GULF and INTUCH and the establishment of NewCo will take place in Q2 2025.

Recently, GULF has invested as a major shareholder in INTUCH and THCOM and has studied various options for structuring the shareholding in the GULF group and the INTUCH group, including ADVANC and THCOM.

After discussions on various issues, it was determined that the amalgamation between GULF, a leader in the energy business, and INTUCH, a shareholder in ADVANC, Thailand’s telecommunications leader, would be the most appropriate option, benefiting both companies and all shareholders.

It also enhances the potential for leadership in expanding energy and telecommunications businesses. In the energy sector, the company is committed to expanding into renewable energy businesses, while in telecommunications, it will focus more on expanding into digital businesses as previously announced.

“This amalgamation will strengthen and clarify the management of all companies within the group. This is a large-scale merger transaction involving five listed companies in Thailand and Singapore, namely GULF, INTUCH, ADVANC, THCOM, and Singtel. It’s a complex and sensitive transaction that must consider the impacts on all aspects and the benefits of all shareholders, including minority shareholders, major shareholders, financial institutions, and various funds.”

Sarath expressed gratitude to all involved parties and agencies for their continued support, enabling the company amalgamation to proceed. The company hopes that this merger will be positive news for the Thai capital market and help build confidence among investors in the Stock Exchange of Thailand.

The Restructuring Transaction is expected to be completed in Q2 2025, with Bualuang Securities and UBS AG Singapore Branch serving as advisors for this transaction.

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Police Probe Possible ‘7th Person’ in Bangkok Luxury Hotel Deaths Case

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Khaosod English

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17 July 2024, 00:37

Thailand Hotel Deaths — Police cars are parked outside the Grand Hyatt Erawan Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, July 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Chatkla Samnaingjam)

BANGKOK — Thai Police have intensified investigation into the case of 6 foreign bodies found in a luxury Bangkok hotel, querying the possibility of a 7th person.

Following the shocking incident in central Bangkok where 6 foreigners were found dead in a 5th-floor room of a luxury hotel near Ratchaprasong area on Tuesday evening, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin held a press conference along with high-ranking police officers.

These included Police General Torsak Sukvimol, National Police Chief; Police Lieutenant General Thiti Saengsawang, Metropolitan Police Bureau Commander; and Police Lieutenant General Trairong Phiwphan, Central Forensic Science Division Commander.

The Prime Minister stated that this was an unexpected incident. Initial investigations revealed that hotel staff discovered 6 bodies – 4 Vietnamese nationals and 2 American nationals – at 4.30 p.m. on July 16. It’s estimated they had been deceased for 24 hours.

6bodies srettha1 — Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin speaks to the media at the press conference along with high-ranking police officers regarding the case of 6 foreign tourist bodies found in a luxury hotel in central Bangkok on July 16, 2024.

At the scene, there were no signs of robbery or assault. Authorities initially suspect that the six individuals consumed something, and there might be a seventh Vietnamese person who hasn’t been located yet. The PM has discussed and provided information to the Vietnamese embassy.

Pol. Lt. Gen. Thiti said the room was due for check-out at noon. When staff attempted to clean the 5th-floor room in the afternoon, they couldn’t enter. Realizing the guests hadn’t checked out, hotel staff opened the room and discovered the deceased. They then notified management and Lumpini Police Station. At 5 p.m., investigation teams and forensic officers inspected the scene.

6bodies srettha2 — Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin arrives to confer with senior police officers overseeing the investigation into the case of 6 foreign tourist bodies found in a luxury hotel in central Bangkok on July 16, 2024.

Current information shows 6 deceased: 4 in the living area and 2 in the bedroom, 3 males and 3 females. They didn’t check in together. One group arrived on July 13, occupying 4 rooms on the 7th floor. Another group arrived on July 14, staying in 1 room on the 5th floor. In total, 5 rooms were booked for 7 people, with 5 checking in, but 6 bodies were found. Immigration police confirmed data for 5 individuals but found 6 bodies.

The 4 rooms on the 7th floor were due to check out on July 15 at noon. Their bags were moved to the 5th-floor room. The hotel reported no payment was made.

Pol. Lt. Gen. Thiti added that in the living room, 6 plates of untouched single-dish Thai meals were found. There were also 6 cups of what appeared to be mixed drinks – 5 on a tray and 1 on a table, with residue. Forensics have collected all items.

All drinks were consumed. In the bathroom, they found a tea container resembling Oolong tea, one bottle of electrolyte drink, and one water bottle, all opened.

Two suspicious stainless steel objects, not belonging to the hotel, were found at the scene.

Investigators believe the six died after 1:53 p.m. on July 15. No clear wounds were found, and belongings were undisturbed. When housekeeping checked, the door was locked from inside and had to be opened from a back entrance.

Currently, Metropolitan Police and Immigration Police agree on these investigation directions:

Verify if the 7th person actually entered the country.
Gather all details about the 6 individuals through embassies and their registered social media.
If there’s no 7th person, begin investigating possible motives.

Furthermore, the investigation team has coordinated with the embassy to examine all luggage in the room, looking for any potential evidence or clues that might indicate who was involved. This is to determine whether all individuals harmed themselves or if someone else was responsible for their deaths.

Currently, based on photographs, the fingernails and toenails of the deceased appear darkened, but this could be due to the bodies being deceased for approximately 24 hours. The autopsies will be conducted at Chulalongkorn Hospital, Thai Red Cross.

The Central Forensic Science Division will examine all details at the scene, including fingerprints and blood traces. Additionally, a toxicology expert team has been called in to investigate.

Pol. Lt. Gen. Thiti stated that the police have not yet concluded whether the victims were drugged. They need to verify if there is a seventh person. Forensic evidence will provide answers, along with connecting other pieces of evidence. If everything aligns, they’ll be able to determine the cause.

“We’re currently searching for the seventh person because the numbers don’t match the check-in records. If they came together, there should be travel information, seat numbers, and airline details. We need to verify if this person actually entered the country. We’ve asked the embassy to check the occupations of the deceased and their purpose for traveling to Thailand. We’re also questioning the staff who served food to see if they noticed anything unusual,” said Pol. Lt. Gen. Thiti.

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Shocking: 6 Foreign Bodies Found in Bangkok Downtown Luxury Hotel

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Khaosod English

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16 July 2024, 20:58

BANGKOK — A shocking incident occurred in the heart of Bangkok on Tuesday evening when 6 foreign bodies were discovered – American and Vietnamese nationals – in a luxury hotel at Ratchaprasong intersection.

After learning of the incident, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has already traveled to the hotel. He also ordered relevant agencies to urgently investigate and control the situation, proceeding with strict caution and thoroughness. He does not want this to affect other tourists.

This incident was notified at 16:30 on July 16 by Pol. Lt. Col. Pairat Kamlee, Deputy Superintendent of Lumpini Police Station that 6 deceased persons found inside the luxury hotel on Ratchadamri Road, Lumpini Subdistrict, Pathumwan District.

AP24198506855195 — People walk outside a hotel where a number of people were found dead in Bangkok, Thailand, Tuesday, July 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Napat Kongsawad)

He rushed to the scene along with Pol. Lt. Gen. Thiti Saengsawang, Metropolitan Police Commissioner, Pol. Maj. Gen. Noppasilp Poolsawat, Deputy Metropolitan Police Commissioner, forensic officers, forensic doctors, and volunteer foundation staff.

Initial information indicates that there are 6 deceased persons of American and Vietnamese nationalities in the hotel, on the 5th floor. All died without signs of wounds. Police suggest it might be poison. Doctors are in the process of determining the cause of death.

Information on 6 deceased foreigners:

Ms. Sherine Chong, age 56 American nationality, Entered-exited Thailand 5 times
Mr. Hung Dang Van, age 55 American nationality, Entered-exited Thailand 1 time
Ms. Thi Nguyen Phunng Lan Age 47, Vietnamese nationality, Entered-exited Thailand 17 times
Mr. Hong Pham Thanh Age 49, Vietnamese nationality, Entered-exited Thailand 1 time
Mr. Dinh Tran Phu Age 37, Entered-exited Thailand 11 times
Ms. Thi Nguyen Phuong Age 46, Entered-exited Thailand 3 times

6bodies cup — Officials are examining the tea and coffee drinks, which were also found with signs of consumption, to determine if they contain any toxic substances related to the deaths of the 6 foreign individuals.

Initially, 4 bodies were found at the dining table and 2 more in the bedroom. Tea and coffee drinks were also found with signs of consumption. No signs of struggle were found at the scene. The police have taken the tour guide, who was the only survivor, to Lumpini Police Station for questioning. The bodies of the deceased will be sent for autopsy at Chulalongkorn Hospital.

This hotel room was left open and was due for check-out today. The luggage was already packed. The police have established two main points of investigation: business-related issues and strange cult activities. The true cause is currently under investigation by the relevant authorities.

The Prime Minister said after talking with the police officers that he had spoken with the Vietnamese ambassador. He stated this incident is not related to robbery or assault, so he is confident that it will not affect tourism, as the country looks to further promote its tourism sector, a key driver of Thailand’s economy.

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Thailand Unveils 4-Year Plan to Become ASEAN’s Halal Hub by 2027

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Khaosod English

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16 July 2024, 20:08

halal business3 — Pimpatra Wichaikul, Minister of Industry, guides Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin through a booth showcasing Thailand's Halal industry potential to the cabinet members at Government House Building 1 on February 27, 2024.

BANGKOK — The National Halal Industry Committee set guidelines for developing and driving the country’s halal industry over the next 4 years (2024-2027). The goal is to expand the country’s industrial GDP by 1.2%, totaling 55,000 million baht.

Following the Trade Policy and Strategy Office (TPSO) of the Ministry of Commerce monitored the global food security situation, it was found that major countries importing agricultural and food products from Thailand have increasingly implemented food security measures by relying more on self-sufficiency.

Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is spearheading efforts to support Thailand as a food hub, particularly in the expanding Halal food market, which presents more growth and opportunities for Thailand to participate. According to the National Halal Industry Committee, Thai Halal food exports in 2023 expanded by 4.0% to 222,289 million baht.

14051553031405155510l — Thai halal food products (Prachachart file photo).

The initial phase of Thailand’s Halal industry’s 4-year development plan, which aims to elevate Thailand as the hub of Halal excellence in ASEAN by 2027, targets five groups of Halal products and services:

Halal foods, such as meat and seafood
Halal fashion, including textiles, pearls, and leather goods
Halal pharmaceuticals, herbal products, and cosmetics
Cocoa and related products
Halal services and tourism

The government has also outlined operational frameworks to enhance the quality and international standards of Thailand’s Halal product manufacturing industry through three main strategies:

Promoting international trade and strengthening the supply chain for Thai Halal products. This includes promoting Thai Halal food products’ potential and expanding their domestic and global market.
Developing production capabilities and standards for Thailand’s Halal industry. This entails creating prototype Halal products and improving the export capabilities of Thai Halal industry entrepreneurs.
Improving the environmental factors affecting Thailand’s Halal industry. This includes:
a. Establishing the Halal Intelligence Unit (Halal IU) as a database for in-depth market reports and analysis.
b. Developing the Thailand Halal Valley in the southern region to serve as the hub for the country’s Halal industry development. This involves:

Establishing testing laboratories for Thai Halal products
Developing the skills of the Thai Halal workforce and personnel.

“We want to push Thailand to become the global food hub and the Halal hub of ASEAN by 2027, creating opportunities for farmers and food-related entrepreneurs, stimulating the economy, creating jobs, and distributing income for Thai people and the Thai economy,” Government Spokesperson Chai Wacharonke stated on July 15, 2024.

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Myanmar Nationals Arrested for 3M Baht Gold Scam in Bangkok

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Khaosod English

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16 July 2024, 18:56

myanmar gold scam3 — U Win, a 65-year-old Myanmar national, was arrested for involvement in a joint fraud case at a hair salon near the front of a hotel in Bangkok on July 16, 2024.

BANGKOK — Immigration Bureau officers arrested 3 Myanmar nationals for deceiving a victim as gold traders.

On July 16, 2024, at the Immigration Office in Muang Thong Thani, Deputy Commissioner Pol. Lt. Gen. Panthana Nuchanart of the Immigration Bureau held a press conference regarding the arrest of 3 Myanmar nationals for deceiving a victim into buying gold from a gold vault.

Mr. U Win, a 65-year-old Myanmar national, was arrested for involvement in a joint fraud case at a hair salon near the front of a hotel on Pradipat Road, in Phaya Thai sub-district and district. Mr. Tew Te and Mr. Chulin, also Myanmar nationals, were apprehended for deceiving a victim by claiming to be gold traders wanting to buy a large quantity of gold for resale.

They used the victim as coordinator to purchase gold from a gold vault at a department store in the Yaowarat area. As collateral, they convinced the victim to deposit money and assured him that if the gold vault sold the gold, he would refund the deposited money, leading the victim to transfer 3,135,000 baht (approximately 87,000 US dollars).

Later, although the gold vault agreed to sell the gold to the group as mentioned earlier, it turned out that U Win and his associates did not have the money to buy the gold and did not return the deposited collateral money to the victim.

The victim demanded the return of their money but could not contact them. The suspects left Thailand, prompting the victims to file a complaint with the investigating officers at Phaya Thai Police Station.

Afterward, it was discovered that the suspects had returned to Thailand. They were arrested and brought to the investigating officers at Phaya Thai Police Station. Other accomplices involved are being investigated and pursued for further legal action.

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