Earthquake Aftershocks Halt the Demolition of a Leaning Building in Taiwan, Death Toll Rises

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6 April 2024, 20:28

Taiwan Earthquake — People leave a helicopter after being rescued from an isolated area following a powerful earthquake in Hualien City, Taiwan, Saturday, April 6, 2024. Taiwan’s strongest earthquake in 25 years struck Wednesday morning off its east coast. (Suo Takekuma/Kyodo News via AP)

TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — The demolition of a building that is leaning precariously after an earthquake in Taiwan was halted on Saturday because of aftershocks that made it lean even more, media reports said.

The red building, about 10 stories tall and inclined over a street in the city of Hualien, has become an iconic image from the magnitude 7.4 earthquake that also buried people under boulders at nearby Taroko National Park, a popular hiking destination about 25 kilometers (15 miles) northwest of Hualien.

The death toll rose to 13 after a third victim was found on the park’s Shakadang Trail. Six other people are still missing, including three on the same trail. More than 400 people remained stranded three days after the quake in locations cut off by damage. Most are at a hotel in Taroko park.

AP24097140772965 — Demolition work is underway at a building collapsed by a powerful earthquake in Hualien City, Taiwan, Saturday, April 6, 2024. Taiwan’s strongest earthquake in 25 years struck Wednesday morning off its east coast. (Suo Takekuma/Kyodo News via AP)

Hundreds of aftershocks have struck the area since the Wednesday morning quake off Taiwan’s east coast, including a magnitude-5.2 earthquake shortly before noon on Saturday.

Survivors have told harrowing tales of rocks tumbling onto roadways, trapping them in tunnels until rescuers arrived to free them.

The relatively low number of deaths from the powerful quake has been attributed to strict construction standards and widespread public education campaigns on the earthquake-prone island. The quake was the strongest to hit Taiwan since a magnitude 7.7 earthquake in 1999 that killed 2,400 people.

Rescuers were planning to bring in heavy equipment to try to recover two bodies pinned under boulders on the Shakadang Trail. The three dead and three missing on the trail include a family of five. Search and recovery work had been called off Friday afternoon because of aftershocks.

In Hualien, a city official said that experts would discuss how to proceed with the demolition of the leaning building. Offerings were made at a ceremony before the demolition began the previous day.

Chinese Are the Biggest Buyers of Thai Condos for 6 Years in a Row

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6 April 2024, 13:36

BANGKOK – The Real Estate Information Center (REIC) has published an overview of the condominium transfer situation in Thailand for the year 2023. The report shows that foreign buyers represent an increasingly important market segment, with the average price per unit purchased by foreigners being the highest.

The number of condominiums transferred to foreign ownership in 2023 rose by 13.4 percent to 14,449 units. The total value of condominiums transferred to foreign ownership in 2023 increased by 24 percent to 7.31 billion baht.

The most popular locations for foreign buyers were Chonburi (41.1 percent) and Bangkok (38 percent). The top 10 nationalities by number of condominium units transferred to foreign ownership were:

Chinese (6,614 units)
Russian (1,260 units)
American (631 units)
Myanmar (564 units)
Taiwanese (532 units)

Between 2018 and 2022, the first 5 nationalities to buy the most units were Chinese, Russian, American, British and French.

The average size of a condominium unit transferred to foreign ownership in 2023 was 45.6 square meters. The average price per unit was 5.1 million baht. British buyers purchased the largest units, with an average size of 56.5 square meters.

Over the past six years (2018-2023), Chinese buyers have been the most active in the Thai condo market. They have purchased a total of 37,987 units, with a total value of over 169 billion baht.

Chinese buyers have the highest share of condominium transfers, with an average price per unit of 5.2 million baht and an average unit size of 39.5 square meters. Interestingly, Myanmar buyers have the highest average price per unit, at 6.6 million baht.

REIC Director Vichai Viratkapan said that the number of Myanmar buyers has been increasing steadily since 2021. This is likely due to the political instability in Myanmar, which has led many people to seek a safe haven in Thailand.

In 2021, the year of the coup, Myanmar buyers purchased a total of 30 condominium units in Thailand, with a total value of 274 million baht. The average price per unit was 9.1 million baht.

It is worth noting that Myanmar buyers tend to purchase larger, more expensive properties. The average size of a condominium unit purchased by a Myanmar buyer is 50 square meters or more.

A German Overstayer Arrested With Axe Threat to Phuket Police

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5 April 2024, 23:30

axe — The police raided the house in Soi Naya, Village No. 1, Rawai Subdistrict, Chalong District, Phuket, on April 5, 2024.

PHUKET – Police officers from Phuket’s Chalong Police Station received a report of a foreign man frequently using knives and an axe to threaten neighbours and the public in Soi Naya, Village No. 1, Rawai Subdistrict, Chalong District, who is deemed dangerous to society and the general public. So they went to inspect on April 5.

When the authorities came, this man made threats to them before rushing into the house, closing and locking the door. Then he used a weapon to threaten the officers, throwing objects outside the house. He further vowed that if anyone entered, he would fight till his death.

According to the investigation, Georg, a 64-year-old foreign man from Frensdorf, listed his nationality as Deutsch or German on his passport. He had overstayed in Thailand for over 500 days.

axe — Finally, authorities arrested the German man inside his home on April 5, 2024.

The police then worked together to prepare how to handle the event with the help of several parties, including the Chalong Police Station, Phuket Province, Tourist Police, Phuket Province’s Immigration Division, and community leaders, while the Phuket Provincial Court issued a search warrant.

The police attempted to communicate with the foreigner but failed. He was insane, wielding an axe and shouting at everyone to fight. The officers then took him into custody, according to police tactics.

The search and arrest results brought relief to the locals and local community leaders because this foreigner was frequently causing trouble. Previously, when officials arrived to investigate, he fled and entered the house.

CP Foods Presents Ready-To-Eat Dishes Featuring Premium Australian Beef

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5 April 2024, 18:01

Amelia Walsh, Senior Commerce and Investment Attaché and Commercial Counselor Ambassador at the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), participated in the unveiling of four new Australian beef products.

These include CP brand’s ‘Beef Cheeseburger and Penne with Minced Beef Bolognese Sauce’, alongside ‘Sausage and Chilli Bologna with Chicken and Australian Beef’ by the BUCHER brand, catering to beef enthusiasts with appealing flavors in every 7-Eleven store across Thailand.

Ms. Walsh emphasized the unique premium qualities of Australian beef, specifically attributing its high quality to natural farming and stress-free raising practices. She highlighted that Australia pays great attention to its supply chain, ensuring traceability from the origin. This meticulous approach gives consumers assurance about the origin and quality of the product.

Proudly speaking on the tripartite collaboration among Austrade, CP Foods, and 7-Eleven, Ms. Walsh referred to a survey by Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) which found that 78 percent of Thai consumers trust the quality of Australian beef for its taste and juiciness. This partnership makes convenient, ready-to-eat menus like burgers, bolognas, and sausages available at 7-Eleven stores, allowing Thai consumers to enjoy high-quality Australian beef.

Anarkawee Chooratn, Head of Corporate Marketing at Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CP Foods), stated that addressing consumer needs is a priority, leading to the development of new products for people of all ages. The introduction of these four new offerings using Australian beef as a key ingredient exemplifies CP Foods’ commitment to combining rich flavors and meaty aromas, satisfying meat lovers through the extensive distribution network of 7-Eleven.

Saowaluk Danwirunhawanit, Senior General Manager at CP All Public Company Limited, announced 7-Eleven’s readiness to support entrepreneurs by selecting high-quality products for their customers. The addition of diverse meat dishes to the ready-to-eat category caters to the preferences of the new generation who value premium meat at reasonable prices.

Photography Exhibition “Bad Girls Do It Well Art Selected By [ Z ] Zalekta”

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5 April 2024, 17:59

Unveiling the Power & Provocation Photography Exhibition through 35mm Film Cameras “Bad Girls Do It Well Art Selected By [ Z ] Zalekta”

BANGKOK – In a captivating fusion of artistic vision and entrepreneurial spirit, Zenniesha Opakul the dynamic Creative Director of “Bad Girls Do It Well Creative”, Khanngoen Nuanual – Director and Songphon Chaovanayothin Director, Chief Operating Officer and Member of the Executive Committee of [Z] ZALEKTA Public Company Limited. Together hosted the exhibition “Bad Girls Do It Well Art Selected By [ Z ] Zalekta”

For this event, there were Hip-Hop Artists, Rappers, and Celebrities such as Zean Natcha Opakul, Aum Lakkhana Wattanawongsiri, Luke Ishikawa Plowden, Tong Twopee, CD Kantee who attended her latest exhibition. This is considered to be the first Collabs with [ Z ] ZALEKTA at COASTIERA Bangkok.

Zenniesha Opakul, celebrated for her bold exploration of identity and femininity, fearlessly challenges societal norms through her mixed media artworks. Her creations serve as a defiant proclamation, urging viewers to reconsider conventional standards of beauty and strength. “Bad Girls Do It Well Art Selected By [Z] ZALEKTA Exhibition” stands as a courageous declaration of independence, compelling its audience to reevaluate ingrained perceptions.

As Creative Director of “Bad Girls Do It Well Creative, “Zenniesha” continues to be captivated by the timeless charm of 35mm film. This medium, known for its evocative photography, refuses to be relegated to the annals of history.

Renowned for capturing both vulnerability and unbridled passion, “The Film Never Die” exhibition plunges into the complexities of female empowerment through the lens in an age dominated by digital technology, the nostalgic allure of analog photography remains undiminished. It serves as a poignant reminder of art’s capacity to transcend the confines of the present moment, inviting contemplation and reflection.

[Z] ZALEKTA earned a reputation for curating art exhibitions that challenge the status quo & redefine the artistic landscape, this collaboration with Zenniesha Opakul, the visionary behind Bad Girl Do It Well Art, represents a meeting of minds, a convergence of two distinct yet complementary visions.

Upon stepping into the venue for this revolutionary showcase, visitors are welcomed by a meticulously chosen array of artworks encapsulating the spirit of “Empowered Artistry: Breaking Boundaries.” From audacious, thought-provoking pieces that confront societal norms to personal, soul-searching works delving into notions of identity and individuality, the exhibition presents a rich tapestry of viewpoints and journeys.

B.Grimm Pharma Unveils 6 Innovation Drug Launches in 2024

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5 April 2024, 17:44

B.Grimm Pharma, Thailand’s Leading Pharmaceutical Manufacturer and Distributor, Headquarters Move Signals Commitment to Sustainable Growth, Unveiling 6 Innovation Drug Launches in 2024

B.Grimm Pharma, the leading manufacturer and distributor of pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and cosmeceuticals in Thailand, is part of B.Grimm’s Healthcare business, one of the three main pillars alongside B.Grimm Power, the listed company, and B.Grimm Industrial businesses. Offering holistic healthcare solutions covering every aspect of the pharmaceutical industry, B.Grimm Pharma has announced the relocation of its head office to the Alma Link building on Chidlom Road.

Strategically situated for convenient access and well-connected to major thoroughfares, this move underscores the company’s commitment to accelerating its ongoing business expansion. Anticipating sustained growth, B.Grimm Pharma is poised to introduce 6 new medicinal products by 2024, covering a diverse range of four key therapeutic areas: 1. Cardiovascular system, 2. Central nervous system, 3. Musculoskeletal system, and 4. Gastrointestinal system. This initiative is particularly crucial given the rising prevalence of various health conditions across Thailand.

The company remains steadfast in its dedication to developing high-quality pharmaceuticals and medical supplies, leveraging cutting-edge technology and innovation. By bolstering research and production capabilities to meet stringent international standards, B.Grimm Pharma aims to adapt to evolving customer needs while fostering greater access to essential medicines throughout society.

Dr. Harald Link, Chairman of B.Grimm, Highlighted the company’s enduring legacy and commitment to do business with compassion, spanning 146 years since its pioneering as the first manufacturer of European medicine in Thailand, dating back to the establishment of ‘Siam Dispensary’ in 1878. Embracing a philosophy deeply rooted in societal well-being, B.Grimm emphasized our noble mission of ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare products while alleviating the financial burdens of treatment for patients.

“B.Grimm’s long-standing dedication to societal well-being is unwavering. With a vision deeply rooted in providing equitable access to quality healthcare products, the company is poised to make a significant impact on healthcare accessibility and affordability. Our ambitious goal of reaching 4.5 million patients by 2030 underscores our resolute dedication to improving lives and shaping a healthier future for all.”

B.Grimm Pharma’s cutting-edge manufacturing and research facilities, manned by a team of expert pharmacists and scientists, guarantee top-notch quality and innovation. Certified to international standards such as PIC/S GMP and ISO 9001:2015, the facility exemplifies efficiency and excellence. Backed by a proficient sales and marketing team, B.Grimm Pharma, including its subsidiaries Unison, Medline, F.C.P.

All Research, stands ready to meet diverse customer needs promptly. Offering a wide array of products including medicines, medical supplies, food supplements, cosmeceuticals, and medical devices, B.Grimm Pharma remains dedicated to supporting the healthcare needs of all individuals.

Ms. Caroline Link, Co-Chairman of B.Grimm Pharma, looks ahead with optimism as the company embarks on a new chapter, stating, “The relocation of our headquarters to the Alma Link building signifies an exciting opportunity for B.Grimm Pharma. Introducing Mr. Kittisak Dumrongtananurak as the head of B.Grimm Pharma further reinforces our dedication to excellence.

With his extensive experiences of over 30 years in the pharmaceutical industry, we are confident in his ability to lead the company towards achieving our vision for success. In response to the anticipated continuous growth of the company, this strategic movement reaffirms B.Grimm Pharma’s position as a leader in Thailand’s pharmaceutical industry.”

B.Grimm Pharma’s ongoing commitment to innovation and quality, along with its dedication to conducting business responsibly towards society. Regarding the relocation of the head office from its previous location on Ladkrabang Road to the centrally situated Alma Link building on Chidlom road, which boasts convenient access via mass transit. This strategic move represents an expansion of business opportunities, paving the way for B.Grimm Pharma to better accommodate its customers and partners.

Mr. Kittisak Dumrongtananurak, Head of B.Grimm Pharma, expresses his enthusiasm for the journey ahead, remarking, “Joining B.Grimm Pharma at this pivotal moment is an honor. With a foundation grounded in high quality, strategic planning, streamlined operations and cutting-edge technology, we are well-positioned to enhance access to quality healthcare products. Together with the dedicated team at B.Grimm Pharma, we will tirelessly pursue our mission to drive positive change in the healthcare landscape.”

The company remains steadfast focus on research, development, and production of therapeutic drugs to aid numerous individuals. In addition to the introduction of the first-to-market generic drugs scheduled for release this year, B.Grimm Pharma also has a substantial pipeline of pharmaceutical products undergoing the registration process.

At B.Grimm Pharma, we’re dedicated to serving the public and society at large. Guided by ethical principles and a philosophy of doing business with compassion, we strive to enhance access to quality medicines for patients to uplift living standards and enhance the quality of life for individuals across society.

Harnessing modern technology and fostering innovation in drug development and healthcare, B.Grimm Pharma stands at the forefront of advancing healthcare solutions that positively impact communities.

AIS The StartUp Enhances the ESG Skills of Thai Startups

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5 April 2024, 17:11

AIS The StartUp enhances the ESG skills of Thai startups elevates missions
Strengthens-Capabilities-Expands opportunities for growth in the capital market

AIS The StartUp reaffirms its goal to be a partner ready to drive and support the sustainable growth of Thai startup entrepreneurs and Tech SMEs under the concept of fostering inclusive growth or “Partnership for Inclusive Growth.” It aims to harness the capabilities of digital networks, technology platforms, and connectivity to expand business growth, including sharing essential knowledge across various sectors necessary for business operations.

Particularly in the realm of conducting business sustainably according to ESG (Environment, Social, Governance) principles, today AIS The StartUp has risen to collaborate with partners in the industry, including the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET), the National Innovation Agency (NIA), and the Thai Startup Association, under the initiative “ESG to Capital for Tech Entrepreneurs.”

This initiative aims to strengthen tech entrepreneurs by enhancing their understanding of applying ESG principles to analyze investment risks and assess company valuations, especially in establishing fundamental ethical dimensions such as Corporate Governance, Partnership Governance, Financial Governance, or Shareholder Governance. These are crucial attributes to instill confidence and competitiveness in the capital market.

Dr.Srihathai Prammanee, AIS StartUp Program Manager, stated, “The primary goal of AIS The StartUp is to be a collaborative partner with entrepreneurs to jointly seek opportunities and sustainably foster mutual growth. In addition to leveraging the potential of digital networks, technology solutions, and even AIS customer base access channels, we also enrich the backbone of business operations with various knowledge aspects.

Over the past year, we organized the IPO Brotherhood, an Exclusive Knowledge Sharing event focusing on professional organizational management dimensions. This included IT Infrastructure, digital business legalities, and even crisis communication management techniques. All of these are crucial for companies registered in the stock market.”

Beyond the essential insights into organizational management, today’s business landscape also emphasizes the importance of analyzing investment risks and conducting sustainable business operations within the framework of ESG (Environment, Social, Governance) principles.

This is why we invite partners such as the Stock Exchange of Thailand, the National Innovation Agency, and the Thai Startup Association, along with executives and experts, to come together and share knowledge and real experiences regarding ESG under the project “ESG to Capital for Tech Entrepreneurs.”

This initiative gathers knowledge from various perspectives, including state policy perspectives on sustainable development and relevant working directions supporting startups and driving the country’s digital economy. It even extends to connecting with leading organizations to collectively address and reflect on issues and importance of integrating ESG into business processes.”

For the “ESG to Capital for Tech Entrepreneurs” project, it is another commitment of AIS The StartUp aimed at enhancing the skills of startup entrepreneurs to understand the analysis of investment risks and conduct sustainable business operations within the ESG framework. The program includes robust content from partners and speakers from leading national organizations who will share experiences and exchange insights throughout the full three-month duration.

With a primary mission to “Strengthens” understanding and illustrate the importance of conducting business that impacts the environment, cares for stakeholders including employees, partners, and communities, as well as governance principles, it is especially crucial for startup entrepreneurs. This is because it is one of the key factors investors use to assess company value and scrutinize whether the business is managed with governance, oversight, risk assessment, and organizational efficiency in mind, considering the extent to which stakeholders are affected.

“ Capabilities” to analyze investment risks and conduct business by establishing a solid foundation and strategizing according to ESG principles which suitable for the format and size of startup companies. Moreover, it can “ Expands” Thai startups to have a competitive edge and grow significantly in the capital market in the future.

“We believe that the key to sustainable growth for startup entrepreneurs does not solely rely on capital, but also on skills, knowledge, digital tools, solutions, and even market access and customer base. Therefore, the approach of Partnership for Inclusive Growth has been upheld by AIS The StartUp consistently.

This approach can propel entrepreneurs to establish a robust business foundation, especially through strategizing ESG, which significantly impacts business operations. It reduces risks, prepares readiness, and opens doors to opportunities for accessing the capital market and scaling up the organization’s growth in the future,” Dr.Srihathai concluded.

Ouay Un Osoth Unveils ‘Golden Dragon’ Inhaler with “Nonkul” as New Presenter

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5 April 2024, 16:46

BANGKOK – Ouay Un Osoth unveils ‘Golden Dragon’ inhaler with “Nonkul” as the new presenter, bolstering its grip on the market and amplifying its appeal to youthful audiences in the Thai herbal medicine sector.

Ouay Un Osoth Co., Ltd., the herbal medicine brand that has been with the Thai community for 77 years, has over 100 SKUs divided into several categories. The products cover various target groups, serving all ages and needs. As the urban brand responding to every trend with new initiatives, Ouay Un recently launched the “Golden Dragon” herbal inhaler.

The product launch aligns with the current trend of Thai herbal inhalers becoming a must-have item. The slogan is “Scented, Cool, Fresh.” To serve younger consumers, Ouay Un announced the latest presenter, the actor “Nonkul – Chanon Santinatornkul.”

According to the information from the Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine, the Thai herbal market has a value of over 50 billion baht. Euromonitor estimated that, by 2026, the market value of herbal products in Thailand will reach 59.5 billion baht. Among this number, the market share for inhalers will be around 4.5 billion baht per year.

Miss Nicha Somboonvechakarn, Managing Director of Ouay Un Osoth Co., Ltd., stated that Ouay Un Osoth has been in the herbal industry since our grandparent’s generation. Our expertise originated and has been passed down through generations. We have continuously developed our products, including herbal medicines categorized as non-prescription drugs, liquid medicines for children, Thai herbal medicines, supplements, and vitamins.

“Many people may not know that besides our main brand, Ouay Un Osoth, we also have Herbal One and “Golden Dragon,” she said.

Golden Dragon is known for small herbal pastilles with multiple flavors. The pastilles are available at convenience stores like 7-11 and drug stores countrywide. Based on the 4.5-billion-baht value of the inhaler market,

“We see it as an opportunity for us to develop products specifically for this market section. This is how our new product, “Golden Dragon” herbal inhalers, began. This latest product under Ouay Un Osoth has significant properties alleviating dizziness according to the slogan ‘Scented, Cool, Fresh.’“

“Herbal inhalers are gaining more popularity today. We see many brands in the market offer this product. As for Ouay Un Osoth, besides our strong suits, like brand strength and expertise in herbs, we also have a new strategy emphasizing our brand image while targeting younger consumers, including teenagers.

That’s why we invited ‘Nonkul, or Non-Chanon Santinatornkul,’ to be our presenter for the Golden Dragon inhalers. Due to his charming personality, dedication to work, and liveliness, we believe he will make the Golden Dragon inhalers more well-known among teenagers,” Miss Nisha added.

Dr. Chanun Somboonvechakarn, Managing Director of Ouay Un Osoth Co., Ltd., said, “Our brand is 77 years old. At first, we started as a small drug store at the foot of Memorial Bridge. Nowadays, we have grown into an herbal medicine dispensary, producing and manufacturing products offered at over 10,000 drug stores and convenience stores. The challenges of running our company are figuring out how to maintain knowledge and wisdom from generation to generation and using innovations and technologies to develop the products. We focus on the quality and the utilities to be at the top of consumers’ minds.”

“The image of herbal medicines may seem a bit old or outdated. Ouay Un Osoth continues to work on our brand. We’ve adjusted the brand image to keep up with industry trends. Before we started Ouay Un Osoth, we probably looked at the brand as a person – probably an old person. The elderly may be healthy, but signs of aging can be seen. It explains why we need to adjust our brand to keep up with what happens these days.

We’ve made changes to our packaging and our recipes, making it safe to use for a wide age range, including infants. Obviously, creating a brand and a new product targeting younger generations is extremely challenging. Our mission is to create a brand that young people have no hesitations when buying. We also aim to create return customers who will become our regulars,” Dr. Chanun explained further.

The main distribution channels for herbal medicines from Ouay Un Osoth are drug stores (60%), modern trade (30%), and online platforms (10%). 45% of customers are in Bangkok and 55% are in upcountry. The Golden Dragon inhaler is 45 baht and available at drug stores, Lotus’s, Pure (a drug store in Big C), King Power, GoFresh, 7-Eleven, and convenience stores nationwide.

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For more information about products from Ouay Un Osoth, please visit the following platforms:

Website Online Store: https://shop.ouayun.com/th
Facebook Ouay Un/ Herbal One: www.facebook.com/OuayUn/
Line Official : @ouayun_osoth and Tel.: 02-455-9554

Russians Caught Trading Crypto in Koh Phangan’s Cannabis Shop

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5 April 2024, 14:23

KOH PHANGAN – Police officers from the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) investigated the website en-samui.bitmoneyekb, which advertised the buying and selling of cryptocurrencies for various currencies. The website offered its services in the districts of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan in Surat Thani province.

The website contained information on how to contact us by phone and via the WhatsApp application. The phone number used for contacting was linked to a bank account in the name of Mr. Ibragim Gaitukiev. Another account was found under the name of Mr. Maksim Variukhin, who also used some of the same phone numbers and accounts.

Further investigation revealed that Maksim and Ibragim were directors or owners of OM 118 Co, Ltd. located at 9/11 Moo 8, Srithanu Beach, Koh Phangan District, Surat Thani Province. A business called Plantasia Cannabis Collective is located there. The store had a “Bitcoins” sign on the front.

The authorities suspected that this cannabis store also functioned as an exchange for the purchase and sale of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, as stated on the website and in the store. Therefore, on 4 April 2024, the police applied for a search warrant to inspect and search the house. Mr. Thanach Srikaew claimed to be the owner of the location, while Maksim and Ibragim claimed to be the owner and operator of the store.

The search did not find anything illegal, but it did find a sign at the cannabis counter inside the shop inviting customers to exchange and buy and sell cryptocurrencies. The two Russians admitted that they were running this business without a license.

The authorities took the two men and the relevant evidence to the Koh Phangan police station to prosecute them for the following charges: “jointly operating a digital asset business (trader) without a license and as foreigners jointly operating a business (service) where Thais are unwilling to compete with foreigners”

It was noted that the arrests took place along with several other similar cases in Phuket and Chonburi provinces. This came after the Prime Minister instructed the Cyber Police and the Ministry of Digital Economy to speed up the suppression of online crime and show clear results within 30 days.

Discover New Experiences and Endless Summer Fun at Siam Discovery’s

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5 April 2024, 13:51

Siam Discovery, the Exploratorium, reaffirms its avant-garde leadership in fostering innovative thinking inviting everyone to experiment, create, and cultivate endlessly. To welcome a fun and exciting summer, everyone is invited to ‘Come Play with Us’ on a journey to discover a vibrant lifestyle with the “Siam Discovery The Summer Exploratorium – Discovery Playground” campaign.

Join us for activities that promise new experiences including the 3x3Basketball Tournament. In collaboration with Hoops Station, the event features superstars, celebrities, and national athletes to boost energy and color to the competition.

Furthermore, JAY FLOW, a renowned South Korean street artist will co-create and collaborate with his colorful and catchy graffiti artwork that blends street art with a sense of fun. Along with the cast from Playboyy The Series includes Khao Oat–Supasilp, Shell-Thakrit, and Dech-Narongdech. They will join in for some basketball shooting at the Discovery Plaza, Siam Discovery.

“Summer Exploratorium – Discovery Playground” event

Ekkawit Chaiwaranurak, Assistant Manager and Business Unit Manager of Siam Center and Siam Discovery, Siam Piwat Company Limited, said that Siam Discovery is a destination that welcomes everyone to come exploring for searching oneself. It is also a community that encourages everyone to try and discover new experiences. We invite you to come play with us. It will be another year of fun and unique experiences as JAY FLOW, a renowned graffiti artist from South Korea joins us to design basketball courts with his vibrant graffiti style.

Moreover, partnering with Hoops Station, we are kicking off a basketball arena for a thrilling competition, offering athletes the chance to earn FIBA (The International Basketball Federation) ranking points along with cash prizes, and other rewards for the winners.

“Furthermore, Siam Discovery remains a trendsetter in fashion, boasting a wide selection of sneaker brands and clothing from leading brands for both men and women sourced globally, exclusively available at Siam Discovery. This guarantees an undoubtedly enjoyable and exciting summer experience,” he added.

Songkran Festival in Bangkok this year will be even more special and enjoyable as Siam Discovery brings JAY FLOW, a world-renowned artist to collaborate and create artwork. JAY FLOW is a well-known graffiti artist from South Korea. His works are featured in festivals and exhibitions worldwide.

He joins us to design graffiti artwork for the basketball court at Siam Discovery with the essence of Songkran festivities and the excitement of the basketball competition. JAY FLOW describes that the work was inspired by his lifestyle, graffiti, music, dance, and friends. The characters designed for this project are under the theme of “Neighborhood,” which was inspired by colleagues across different fields. With the essence and vibe of Siam Discovery, this artwork invites everyone to explore, discover, and endlessly experiment.

The highlight of “Siam Discovery The Summer Exploratorium – Discovery Playground” is the HOOPS STATION 3X3 SUMMER FEST 2024, a 3×3 Basketball Tournament organized by Hoops Station, a flagship basketball store offering a comprehensive range of basketball products.

This event is held in collaboration with Siam Discovery and features national athletes who have competed in the Asian Games and SEA Games. Leading players include Chanachon Klahan, Sukhdave Ghogar, Jittaphon Towaroj, Phawadee Kunchaun, and Chatphol Jaeungyampin. The tournament runs from April 3 to 16, 2024.

Kwanpong Chuenrudeemol, Managing Director of Hoops 360 said that Hoops Station is the leading comprehensive basketball brand in the Southeast Asian region. He mentioned that 3×3 basketball is a game of three players playing on a half-court. Currently, this sport is certified by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), which oversees basketball internationally. Typically, each team consists of four players, with three on the court and one reserve.

Substitutions can be made at any time during the game without notifying the referee by simply tapping hands on the court. The game duration is only 10 minutes or until one team scores 21 points. It requires a variety of skills, including agility and physical strength. Players must continuously run to find scoring opportunities while observing and analyzing the opponent’s movements to secure victory for their team. This competition also offers cash prizes and numerous rewards.

Additionally, there will be a Hoops Station Pop-Up featuring sports shoes from Adidas and a Personalization activity where attendees can customize their shirts with artwork by JAY FLOW, specially designed for this event.

The excitement of “Siam Discovery The Summer Exploratorium – Discovery Playground” is further enhanced with colorful activities. Come enjoy the Splashy Boy activity, where a young man takes a plunge into the water, drawing satisfying cheers from the ladies as they select the most handsome guy for a surprise ball pit drop.

Furthermore, there is a chance to receive a cool graffiti waterproof pouch from JAY FLOW by simply exchanging coins in the ONESIAM SuperApp. Get your hands on the cool pouches starting today.

Join us and Come Play with Us throughout April at Siam Discovery The Exploratorium. Follow us for more details on Facebook: Siam Discovery.

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