The German suspect was brought to Patong Police Station on January 26, 2024.
PHUKET – A foreign guy who turned and smiled at a CCTV camera while stealing money from a hotel in Patong, Phuket, was arrested.
On January 26, at around 5:30 p.m., police officers from Patong Police Station and Tourist Police apprehended Mr. Mohamed Yassine, a 22-year-old suspect of German nationality. The Phuket Provincial Court issued an arrest warrant against him for theft at night and damaging barriers designed to protect persons or property.
A 22-year-old suspect of German nationality was arrested for stealing money from Patong’s hotel.
CCTV footage shows that at around 3:00 a.m. on January 25, the suspect entered the hotel counter, opened the counter drawer, and took away an envelope containing 86,000 baht in cash.
At the time of the incident, the suspect turned to face the security camera. He seemed unconcerned about anything and turned to smile at the security cameras. Then he kept stealing money and walked out of the hotel. The culprit was not a guest at this hotel.
The officers then brought him to the Patong Police Station for prosecution.
Jannik Sinner, right, of Italy is congratulated by Novak Djokovic of Serbia following their semifinal at the Australian Open tennis championships at Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia, Friday, Jan. 26, 2024. He faces Daniil Medvedev for the title. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)
MELBOURNE, Australia (AP) — Jannik Sinner ended one of Novak Djokovic’s perfect streaks in an Australian Open upset and then got to relax while Daniil Medvedev rallied from two sets down to beat Alexander Zverev after midnight to secure the other place in the final.
Just about everything went the self-described tennis fan’s way in the semifinals Friday.
The 22-year-old Italian broke Djokovic’s serve twice in each of the first two sets in a surprisingly lopsided 6-1, 6-2, 6-7 (6), 6-3 victory that ended the 10-time champion’s unbeaten streak in Australian Open semifinals.
Jannik Sinner of Italy celebrates after defeating Novak Djokovic of Serbia in their semifinal at the Australian Open tennis championships at Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia, Friday, Jan. 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)
Djokovic had won 33 matches straight at Melbourne back since 2018 and never lost here after reaching the final four.
Almost an hour after saving a match point, that phenomenal sequence was over. Sinner converted his second match point to complete a third win in four head-to-heads since losing to Djokovic in last year’s Wimbledon semifinals.
“I learned a lot from that,” he said, noting the turning point in their rivalry. Sinner won two of the next three — all in November — at the ATP Finals in Turin and in the Davis Cup semifinals.
“It gives you a better feeling when you know that you can beat one player,” he said. “The confidence from the end of last year has for sure kept the belief.”
Jannik Sinner, left, of Italy is congratulated by Novak Djokovic of Serbia following their semifinal at the Australian Open tennis championships at Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia, Friday, Jan. 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake)
Third-seeded Medvedev appeared down and out after two sets, and was two points from losing in the fourth, but he rallied to beat Zverev 5-7, 3-6, 7-6 (4), 7-6 (5), 6-3 after 4 hours, 18 minutes.
“I was a little bit lost, but during the third set I started saying ‘If I lose this match, I just want to be proud of myself,’” said Medvedev, who has lost two finals in Australia, including the 2022 decider from two sets up against Rafael Nadal. “I’m proud of myself.”
Medvedev’s shanked chip forehand service return that just dropped over the net to earn a set point in the fourth-set tiebreaker clearly frustrated Zverev.
Daniil Medvedev, right, of Russia is congratulated by Alexander Zverev of Germany following their semifinal at the Australian Open tennis championships at Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia, early Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino)
“Tough luck for him, for sure, in this point,” Medvedev said. “Managed to make an ace after, but that’s what tennis is about.”
Five games later, Zverev got a warning for a code violation for smacking the net just before another service break.
“It’s more disappointing that at 5-4 in the tiebreak I didn’t serve it out,” he said. “The 5-all point was just purely unlucky.” Zverev’s run drew attention on and off the court after it emerged as the tournament started that a German court set a trial date in May over an assault allegation dating to 2020. The Olympic gold medalist has denied the accusations since last July when details of the case became public.
He said it wasn’t a distraction. Zverev got within a couple of swings of the racket of making a second Grand Slam final, extra disappointing after he blew a two-set lead to lose the 2020 U.S. Open final to Dominic Thiem.
Instead it will be 2021 U.S. Open winner Medvedev contending for a second major title in his sixth final. His run here included a grueling second-round win that finished at almost 4 in the morning. It makes Medvedev the first player since Pete Sampras in 1995 to register two comebacks from 2-0 down on the way to an Australian Open final.
Daniil Medvedev of Russia celebrates after defeating Alexander Zverev of Germany in their semifinal at the Australian Open tennis championships at Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia, early Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024. (AP Photo/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake)
Sinner will be the youngest player to contest the men’s final in Australia since 24-time major winner Djokovic took his first here in 2008.
“He’s deservedly in the finals. He outplayed me completely,” Djokovic said. “Look, I was shocked with my level — in a bad way. There was not much I was doing right in the first two sets.
“This is one of the worst Grand Slam matches I’ve ever played — at least that I remember.”
Djokovic didn’t get a look at a break point at all — the first time he’s experienced that in a completed Grand Slam match.
“That stat says a lot,” Djokovic said. “There’s a lot of negative things that I’ve done on the court today in terms of my game. Everything … was just subpar.”
Sinner took the first two sets in under 1 1/4 hours, an astonishing start against a player who lost only one Grand Slam match last year — the Wimbledon final against Alcaraz.
Djokovic picked up his service percentage, cut down his unforced errors and upped the pressure in the third.
Novak Djokovic of Serbia waves as he leaves Rod Laver Arena after his loss to Jannik Sinner of Italy in their semifinal at the Australian Open tennis championships at Melbourne Park, Melbourne, Australia, Friday, Jan. 26, 2024. (AP Photo/Asanka Brendon Ratnayake)
He was serving at 5-5 when play was interrupted briefly while a spectator received medical help in the stands. Djokovic then held serve and saved a match point before taking the set in a tiebreaker.
But he was immediately in trouble again in the fourth.
He fended off three break points to hold in the second game but Sinner got a decisive service break to lead 3-1, winning five straight points from 40-0 down.
Continuous chants of “Nole, Nole, Nole, Nole” echoed around Rod Laver Arena between big points but didn’t get him across the line this time.
“I think you win the matches not only on that day, you win it because you feel prepared for a good fight,” Sinner said. “After last year, especially end of the year, gave me confidence that I could potentially do some good results in Grand Slams.”
A boat moves across a bridge for the Chinese high-speed rail over the Mekong River, north of the Laotian city of Luang Prabang on Dec. 12, 2023. (AP Photo/David Rising)
BANGKOK (AP) — Simmering tensions in the South China Sea between China and several Southeast Asian nations now regularly spark direct confrontation. Fighting in Myanmar against the military government that seized power three years ago has grown to the point that most say the country is now in a civil war.
Hopes were high that Indonesia might be able to make significant inroads on both issues during its 2023 chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, using its clout as the bloc’s largest country, but little progress was made. Now Laos, the bloc’s poorest and one of its smallest countries, has taken over the rotating chair.
As foreign ministers gather in Luang Prabang for this year’s first top-level meetings over the weekend, many are pessimistic that ASEAN can keep its biggest challenges from festering and growing.
Loas people tour Xiengthong temple in Luang Prabang, Laos, on Dec. 13, 2023. (AP Photo/ David Rising)
“There were so many expectations when Indonesia started its presidency and some of those expectations fell short,” said Shafiah Muhibat, an expert with the Centre for Strategic and International Studies in Indonesia.
“So with Indonesia moving on to Laos, I think the expectations are quite low in terms of what Laos can actually do.”
After the military seized control of Myanmar in February 2021 from the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi, ASEAN — comprised of Indonesia, Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Myanmar, Cambodia, Brunei and Laos — came up with a “Five-Point Consensus” plan for peace.
The military leadership in Myanmar has so far ignored the plan. At the same time, a humanitarian crisis is growing, with more than 2.6 million people forced from their homes due to escalating violence, according to the United Nations.
ASEAN’s plan calls for the immediate cessation of violence, a dialogue among all concerned parties, mediation by an ASEAN special envoy, provision of humanitarian aid through ASEAN channels, and a visit to Myanmar by the special envoy to meet all concerned parties.
Min Aung Hlaing, right, the head of ruling military council, talks with Alounkeo Kittikhoun, left, special envoy of ASEAN Chairman, during their meeting Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024, in Naypyitaw, Myanmar. (The Military True News Information Team via AP)
“ASEAN actually has very little leverage on Myanmar; Myanmar doesn’t care about ASEAN at all,” said Muhammad Faizal, with the Institute of Defense and Strategic studies at the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore. “They don’t give a hoot about the five-point consensus.”
During its ASEAN chairmanship, Indonesia established an official office of the special envoy, increasing the resources for the position, and the veteran Laotian diplomat who assumed the role has already been to Myanmar and met with the head of the ruling military council and other top officials. To ensure continuity in dealing with Myanmar, Indonesia also established a troika mechanism made up of the past, current and next chair of ASEAN — currently Indonesia, Laos and Malaysia.
The troika will provide “capacity and support” for Laos during its year as chair, meaning the country won’t have to go it alone, said Peter Haymond, former United States Ambassador to Laos from 2020 to 2023 who is now with the Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies in Hawaii.
“ASEAN only really carries weight if it’s able to speak as one group … so this troika is put together specifically by the ASEAN partners with Lao concurrence,” he said on the Center for Strategic and International Studies’ Southeast Asia Radio podcast in November.
“I think Lao was looking for help.”
Still, it’s likely Laos will approach the situation in Myanmar from its own perspective as the first ASEAN nation since the military takeover to share a border with the country, Faizal said.
“They want to maintain the cross-border security cooperation with the Myanmar junta, and think that it is probably in their interest to make sure that the junta remains the authority in Myanmar. Though, in reality, that may not be the case,” he said in a telephone interview.
At the moment, the Myanmar military is losing ground to a concerted offensive launched in October by three powerful militias that have since been joined by several others around the country.
A view of Laukkaing city in Shan state, Myanmar, Nov. 20, 2023. (Kyaw Ko Lin via AP)
China is seen to be at least tacitly supporting the initial group, known as the Three Brotherhood Alliance, stemming partially from Beijing’s growing irritation at the flourishing drug trade and other criminality across its border with Myanmar. It also has strong influence with the country’s military rulers.
Communist Laos is one of the ASEAN countries with the closest ties to Beijing, so it will be interesting to see whether it tries to enlist Chinese support in resolving the Myanmar conflict, Faizal said.
“It’s quite obvious that both the junta and the other groups are trying to gain the support or the favor of China,” Faizal said.
Beijing maintains it will not interfere in the internal affairs of other states, so it’s unclear whether it would want to take on a greater role in trying to end the conflict in Myanmar, even if it were acceptable to other ASEAN members.
Many are locked in maritime disputes with China over its claims of sovereignty over virtually the entire South China Sea, one of the world’s most crucial waterways for shipping.
The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Taiwan and Brunei, all have their own claims over islands, reefs and undersea resources in the region. Indonesia has also expressed concern about what it sees as Beijing’s encroachment on its exclusive economic zone in the waters.
Tows Philippine navy-operated supply boat M/L Kalayaan after it’s engines were damaged due to water cannons from Chinese Coast Guard as it approached Second Thomas Shoal, locally known as Ayungin Shoal, in the disputed South China Sea on Sunday Dec. 10, 2023. (Philippine Coast Guard via AP)
In 2012, China and ASEAN agreed to a declaration on conduct in the South China Sea, seeking to “enhance favorable conditions for a peaceful and durable solution of differences and disputes,” but there has been little sign of goodwill recently.
The decades long territorial dispute escalated between Beijing and Manila last year, sparking fears it could degenerate into a major conflict that could involve the United States, a longtime treaty ally of the Philippines.
Chinese coast guard ships and accompanying vessels used military-grade laser and water cannons against Philippine coast guard and supply vessels and undertook dangerous maneuvers near disputed shoals, prompting the Philippines to file a large number of diplomatic protests against China.
In December, China vowed to keep up its military pressure on the Philippines, and Philippine officials have grown increasingly discontented by what they see as a lack of support from other ASEAN countries.
FILE – Chinese coast guard ships block Philippine coast guard BRP Cabra as it tried to head towards Second Thomas Shoal, locally known as Ayungin Shoal, at the disputed South China Sea during a rotation and resupply mission on Aug. 22, 2023. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila, file)
The situation is unlikely to change under landlocked Laos’ leadership, especially given its ties to Beijing, Faizal said.
During its past chairmanship in 2016, Laos was able to strike a balance between all sides, coming up with a compromise that officials later characterized as making everyone equally unhappy.
However, Laos, with a population of 7.4 million, has since grown increasingly beholden to its giant neighbor to the north, Faizal noted, with massive amounts of debt to Chinese state banks for multiple infrastructure projects, including a new high-speed rail line across the country.
“They will have come under a lot of pressure from China, because they’re basically dependent upon China for everything,” he said. “I believe they will probably just try to maintain the status quo — not doing more, but just maintaining what is there now.”
BANGKOK – Thonglor Police Station’s officers arrested four Indonesian men—Mr. Jaya Abidi, 61; Mr. Irsandi, 58; Mr. Suhenda, 41; and Mr. Iwan Susanto, 50—on charges of conspiracy to commit robbery after stealing money from a Japanese visitor.
Police arrested the suspects based on CCTV evidence showing they were conspiring to steal money from Mr. Yoshimune Yoshida. The Japanese visitor reported the theft of about 8,700 US dollars (about 310,000 Thai baht) from the Value Plus exchange office on the G floor of EmQuartier shopping mall on Sukhumvit Road on January 24.
The Indonesia eldery is the one who pickpocket the Japanese visitor.Four Indonesian men were arrested for stealing a Japanese visitor’s money.
After checking CCTV footage from the Value Plus Exchange shop and the mall where the victim shopped, the four suspects were identified. They approached the Japanese tourist from various directions, took his belongings without his awareness, and left the mall in a pink cab.
Police followed the suspects’ trail on CCTV footage and found that the group got out of the cab at Soi Ekamai and later boarded a green-and-yellow cab towards Rama 9 before stopping in front of the Buddy Place Hotel at Ramkhamhaeng Soi 81/4, where they were arrested in front of the hotel’s lobby.
When the staff were questioned, it emerged that the criminal group consisted of Indonesians who had rented three hotel rooms for daily stays. The police then conducted a search, collected evidence and requested the arrest of the suspected group for conspiracy to commit robbery, with all individuals making statements during the course of the investigation.
The investigation revealed that all the suspects had traveled from Indonesia to commit the robbery. They targeted the victim by deceiving him while he had money in a backpack. After the crime, they divided the stolen money among themselves and transferred it to their families in Indonesia.
AIS Ignites a New Era with The AIS Points Platform, Weaving Together Vibrant Lifestyles from Partners Across a Spectrum of Industries. Ready to Elevate Your Experience with Year-Round Spectacular Programs of ‘Earn, Burn, and Excitement!’
AIS reaffirms its leadership in service and customer care, aiming to meet every digital lifestyle need. The company is delighted to welcome the new year on the AIS Points Platform, driven by the collaboration with partners from various industries. Together, they will deliver diverse and special experiences to customers, both mobile and broadband, throughout the year.
Jaiporn Srisakul, Head of Customer and Service Management at AIS, said, ‘AIS’s commitment for over 34 years, which remains unchanged, is to take care of customers through a high-quality network and services, providing exceptional solutions that support and enhance the best possible lifestyle and daily life.
This is particularly evident in creating added value for daily usage through ‘AIS Points,’ a reward system for regular usage. All AIS customers, regardless of the system, can participate by simply opening the myAIS application. They can then start accumulating points to exchange for various special rewards continuously.’
‘The customer care model with AIS Points consists of three parts: “Earn,” “Burn,” and “Excitement,” based on the accumulated points. Throughout the program’s introduction, we can offer special experiences that align with customers’ usage behavior. AIS continues to advance the customer points system to meet and continuously facilitate customer needs. Recently, we elevated ourselves to become the AIS Points Platform, consolidating the power of partners to create even more convenience for customers in using the platform, taking it to the next level.’
“EARN” In addition to earning points through usage and smartphone purchases with AIS, customers can transfer accumulated points from various partner activities to AIS Points. Recently, we expanded our collaboration plans with Point X and MAAI by KTC, adding to the list of partners. This makes us the leading points platform in the country, supporting partners in jointly taking care of customers and fostering clear ecosystem growth.
“BURN” Beyond using points to redeem the best privileges, such as discounts on purchasing products, services, smartphones, and gadgets already available with AIS, we have continuously expanded cooperation with partners from all categories. Presently, there are more than 2 million participating stores and outlets nationwide where customers can redeem special offers. This includes leading brands in food and beverages, retail stores, street food stalls, and shopping, providing convenience for customers to seamlessly redeem partner points via the myAIS app.
“Excitement” Everyday, we want to deliver excitement and special moments to our customers. Therefore, we have an ongoing Lucky Draw campaign, allowing customers to participate using their points. Prizes include top-of-the-line smartphones, gold, and electric cars throughout the year.
Jaiporn emphasizes the intention to elevate customer care, stating that working closely with partners who share the same commitment allows us to efficiently take care of customers and partners. For example, our collaboration with KTB over the past two years has allowed AIS customers to receive discounts or use points instead of cash to buy at Tungngern stores nationwide. This has significantly contributed to the growth of these small retail businesses.
“Today, we have made it even more convenient for cash businesses to receive payments or AIS Points through the Super QR Code, reducing complexity and enhancing trading speed. Additionally, we have taken steps with partners to offer services that align with current lifestyles, utilizing data analytics to design personalized privileges for customers,” she said.
This year, AIS is fully prepared to offer AIS Points to its 49.1 million customers, providing a full-fledged, year-round special experience through “Earn, Burn, and Excitement.” It begins with distributing welcome bonus points during the Chinese New Year festival of 11 days, 11 million points, and a spectacular campaign where customers can use just 1 point to receive special privileges or discounts at over 50 participating stores in Yaowarat.
“We are also expanding exclusive privileges for the younger generation with stores in the Siam Square area and many other renowned brands. Furthermore, there is the ultimate excitement of the long-awaited Lucky Draw program, where we have upgraded the prizes for customers to use points to win top-notch smartphones, gold, and electric cars throughout the year,” concludes Jaiporn.
Follow the developments and enjoy special privileges with AIS Points on the myAIS app.
Srettha Thavisin, Prime Minister received a courtesy call by Jake Sullivan, National Security Advisor of the United States of America on January 26, 2024.
BANGKOK – Since the coup in Burma in 2021, the situation has not improved and is likely to worsen, particularly in regard to the violence caused by the crackdown on dissidents and fighting in Shan State. The US security adviser addressed this issue with Thailand’s elected administration.
The U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan’s met today with Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin at the Government House and with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, which followed at the Foreign Ministry.
Both sides reiterated commitment to the long-standing treaty alliance between the two countries based on shared values of democracy, human rights, human security and ensuring all citizens can freely participate in the political process.
The U.S and Thai administration discussed ways to further enhance partnership, both at the bilateral and regional levels across diverse fields.
They also discussed efforts to address the worsening crisis in Burma, and the importance of providing humanitarian assistance to the people of Burma. The Thai side informed about the humanitarian initiative to help Burmese people in line with the ASEAN’s 5-point consensus.
NSA Sullivan affirmed the United States’ unwavering commitment to ASEAN centrality, and welcomed efforts to advance meaningful implementation of the ASEAN’s 5-point consensus.
Both sides also exchanged views on the current global security landscape, as well as latest key developments, including the situation in Ukraine, and the Middle East. Mr. Sullivan also emphasized U.S. commitment to secure the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas.
The U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan meets with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, which followed at the Foreign Ministry on January 26, 2024.
They then discussed ways to further enhance partnership, both at the bilateral and regional levels across diverse fields, ranging from the defense and security cooperation, cyber and emerging technologies, clean energy transition, to promoting more trade and investment.
On this occasion, both sides reaffirmed intention to further strengthen the strategic alliance and partnership, including through enhanced high-level engagements and the upcoming Thailand – United States Strategic and Defense Dialogue (2+2), which the Thai side will be hosting in Bangkok in February.
File - The iPhone 15 Pro is shown after its introduction on the Apple campus, Sept. 12, 2023, in Cupertino, Calif. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)
LONDON (AP) — You’re in a crowded bar when a thief watches you unlock your iPhone with your passcode, then swipes it. That sinking feeling hits when you realize it’s gone, along with priceless photos, important files, passwords on banking apps and other vital parts of your digital life.
Apple rolled out an update to its iOS operating system this week with a feature called Stolen Device Protection that makes it a lot harder for phone thieves to access key functions and settings. Users are being urged to turn it on immediately.
Here’s how to activate the new security option and why it’s so important:
SHOULD I TURN ON STOLEN DEVICE PROTECTION?
The software update for iPhones and iPads includes the essential new feature designed to foil thieves from wiping phones for resale or accessing Apple ID or other important accounts. Stolen Device Protection is a new setting that’s included with the latest iOS release, version 17.3.
This undated screenshot shows the location of the new iPhone Stolen Device Protection setting on iPhones. Apple rolled out an update to its iOS operating system this week that makes it a lot harder for phone thieves to access key functions and settings. (AP Photo)
Apple says the feature, buried in your iPhone’s settings, adds an extra layer of security for users. It addresses a vulnerability that thieves have discovered and exploited: allowing them to lock victims out of their Apple accounts, delete their photos and other files from their iCloud accounts and empty their bank accounts by accessing passwords kept in the Keychain password manager.
Apple is introducing the feature as anecdotal evidence suggests phone thefts are surging. Stories of stolen phones abound on Reddit groups and in news articles in places from Los Angeles to London, where police say pickpocketing, “table surfing” and moped snatching are common tactics.
The Wall Street Journal reported last year how criminals watched people use their passcodes to gain access to their personal information after stealing their phones.
HOW DOES STOLEN DEVICE PROTECTION WORK?
Stolen Device Protection keeps track of a user’s “familiar locations,” such as their home or workplace, and adds extra biometric security hoops to jump through if someone tries to use the device to do certain things when it’s away from those places.
This screenshot shows where to find the Stolen Device Protection on the iPhone SE settings menu. Apple rolled out an update to its iOS operating system this week that makes it a lot harder for phone thieves to access key functions and settings. (AP Photo)
It also reduces the importance of passcodes, which thieves can steal by peering over someone’s shoulder or threatening and forcing victims to hand them over, in favor of “biometric” features such as faces or fingerprints that are a lot harder to duplicate.
Let’s say the bar thief that snatched your iPhone tries to erase its contents and settings to sell it. With Stolen Device Protection turned on, the phone will now require a Face ID or Touch ID scan to verify that person is the rightful owner.
And that’s the only way — the new feature doesn’t let someone use the passcode or any other backup method.
Other actions that will trigger this feature if it’s not at a familiar place include using passwords saved in Keychain or payment methods saved in Safari, turning off Lost Mode, applying for a new Apple Card or using the iPhone to set up a new device.
This screenshot shows the prompt requiring a fingerprint to turn off the Stolen Device Protection feature on iPhones. Apple rolled out an update to its iOS operating system this week that makes it a lot harder for phone thieves to access key functions and settings. (AP Photo)This screenshot shows the security delay feature on Apple’s stolen device protection update for iPhones. The delay is triggered by attempts to change critical settings when the user is away from familiar locations. The update makes it a lot harder for phone thieves to access key functions and settings. (AP Photo)
There’s also a second layer designed to slow down thieves trying to access critical security settings. If someone tries to, say, sign out of an Apple ID account, change the passcode or reset the phone while it’s in an unfamiliar location, they’ll have to authenticate using Face ID or Touch ID, wait an hour, then do a second facial or fingerprint scan.
Changing an Apple ID password, updating Apple ID security settings, adding or removing Face or Touch ID, and turning off the Find My device feature or Stolen Device Protection also will trigger this feature.
“The security delay is designed to prevent a thief from performing critical operations so that you can mark your device as lost and make sure your Apple account is secure,” the company said. “When your iPhone is in a familiar location, these additional steps will not be required and you can use your device passcode like normal.”
HOW DO I ACTIVATE STOLEN DEVICE PROTECTION?
It’s simple — if you know where to look.
First, download and update your iPhone or iPad with the latest iOS update. Then go to your settings, scroll down to “Face ID & Passcode” or “Touch ID & Passcode” and enter your passcode. Scroll down and you’ll see Stolen Device Protection.
Depending on your iPhone model, you’ll need to tap or toggle to turn it on or off. Make sure you’ve first activated two-factor authentication and Find My device for your Apple ID account, or it won’t show up.
WHAT DEVICES DOES IT APPLY TO?
IPhone XS and newer models, including second- and third-generation SE models.
The DW documentary interviewed Mr. Jens, a German suspect, claiming that he had paid 1 million baht to be able to escape from Thailand.
WIESBADEN – Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, deputy commander of the Royal Thai Police, travelled to Wiesbaden, Germany, on January 25, 2024, to meet with the German authorities about the case of a German citizen, Mr. Jens, who is accused of buying sexual services from minors in Pattaya that has become scandalous stories last year.
Pol. Gen. Surachate stated that the allegations from Mr. Jens’ interview with the DW documentary, in which he said the Thai judiciary had accepted one million baht to let him escape to Germany, have been proven to be false.
“The German public prosecutor’s office confirmed to me on talk that Mr. Jens was taken into custody and investigated after his return to Germany. The authorities assured that no payments were made to anyone, except for legal fees for bail, and emphasized the cooperation of Thai officials in the process,” Pol. Gen. Surachate said.
Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, deputy commander of the Royal Thai Police, attended a meeting with German authorities at the Serious and Organised Crime (SO) Federal Criminal Police Office in Wiesbaden, Germany, on January 25, 2024.
Jens told the German public prosecutor that he did not know how old the Thai girl was. He explained that he had asked for bail because he had health problems and needed to take care of some business. He was then placed on a travel restriction due to COVID-19, so he could not return to Thailand as ordered by the Thai court.
Jens also wrote a letter clarifying the situation and explicitly pointing out that the information contained in the documentary had been manipulated to damage Thailand’s image. He regretted having participated in an interview without fully understanding the situation and apologized for the damage caused.
The German prosecutor also stated that they are willing to work with the National Police Office in Thailand to combat human trafficking and maintain Thailand’s reputation as a tourist destination.
Pol. Gen. Surachate Hakparn, deputy commander of the Royal Thai Police, meets Markus Koths, Head of Division, Serious and Organised Crime (SO) Federal Criminal Police Office, in Weisbaden, Germany, on January 25, 2024.
Pol. Gen. Surachate said that the trip to Germany was a success beyond all expectations. Although they have not met or spoken to Jens directly, they have received a written statement in German. In this document, Mr. Jens clarified the information and alleged distortions in the news report that claimed he paid one million baht as bribe to Thai officials.
The Deputy Commander of the National Police announced that all documents will be brought back for further examination and expansion of the investigation, with a scheduled meeting at the police club upon the delegation’s return to Thailand.
ONYX Hospitality Group, the prominent management company in Southeast Asia specialising in hotels & resorts, serviced apartments and luxury residences, has achieved a significant milestone with the launch of Shama Suasana Johor Bahru in Malaysia, marking the opening of the first Shama property in the country.
This achievement is highly significant as it makes Malaysia the first country, outside of Thailand, to host all three ONYX brands: Amari, OZO, and Shama, reaffirming ONYX’s commitment to expanding its presence in Southeast Asia.
The signing ceremony took place on 18th January 2024 at Amari Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, with Dennis Ng Yew Khim, Group Managing Director, United Malayan Land Bhd, and Mr. Yuthachai Charanachitta, CEO of ONYX Hospitality Group. United Malayan Land (UMLand) is one of Malaysia’s premier property and township development companies. Shama Suasana Johor Bahru marks the second opening in partnership between ONYX Hospitality Group and UMLand, following the five-star Amari Johor Bahru in 2017.
The Shama brand is renowned for its commitment to providing contemporary, stylish, and spacious serviced apartments, where vibrant community thrives in a cosy homely haven. At each Shama property, a true sanctuary of belonging is created – strangers become family, greeted with open arms and a sense of home.
Scheduled to open in Q1, 2024, Shama Suasana Johor Bahru offers a modern living experience in the heart of the city, seamlessly combining the warmth and coziness of home with luxury facilities and services. Nestled next to the Zenith Lifestyle Centre, Johor Bahru’s premier entertainment hub, and within walking distance to malls, department stores, and Johor Bahru’s Heritage Trail, Shama Suasana Johor Bahru promises an unforgettable stay for both leisure and business travellers. Conveniently located just a short drive from Singapore, it provides easy access via the Rapid Transport System, and the CIQ (a customs, immigration and quarantine checkpoint for cars, buses, and the JB Sentral train station) is within walking distance, making travel effortless.
The elegantly appointed suites at Shama Suasana Johor Bahru are comfortable and luxurious. Featuring spacious living rooms and separate bedrooms, the latest modern comforts and features, and fully equipped kitchenettes, guests can be certain to have an enchanting and unforgettable stay complete with all the comforts of home.
The Shama foundation is built on community, fostering heartwarming connections. Whether a brief visit or settling in for an extended stay, everyone is embraced as part of the Shama family. Spaces are thoughtfully curated to encourage residents and neighbours to relax and connect, inviting them to uncover hidden charms of the neighbourhood with the freedom to explore. Shama embodies tranquillity, echoed in the brand’s rippling logo representing lively local cultures and daily experiences.
The expansion of the Shama brand into Malaysia forms part of ONYX Hospitality Group’s strategy to drive significant expansion in the hotel, resort, and serviced apartment business in Southeast Asia. As it seeks to achieve the overall vision of establishing itself as “The Best Medium-sized Hospitality Management Company in Southeast Asia”, the company is on track to operate over 50 properties by 2025, up from 44 at present, and an even more ambitious target of 70 by 2028.
ONYX Hospitality Group is a well-established and leading hotel management company with a strong presence and reputation in the global travel market. With more than five decades of experience, ONYX Hospitality Group prides itself on its ability to bridge the best of Asian hospitality practices with global business precision – with the brand promise ‘A Tailored Approach to Hospitality’. ONYX Hospitality Group’s commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences and providing top-notch services is at the heart of its operations. At the core of ONYX’s business model is a dedication to offering outstanding customer service, a commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism, and a focus on adapting to the ever-evolving dynamics of the global travel industry.
Further planned expansion in the pipeline: OZO Medini (Q2 2024) and Shama Medini (Q1 2025). These properties will again see ONYX partner with UMLand Bhd.
From Left to Right: Mr. Tun Musa Hitam, Chairman Emeritus of UMLand Bhd., Mr. Dennis Ng Yew Khim, Group Managing Director of UMLand Bhd., Mr. Yuthachai Charanachitta, CEO of ONYX Hospitality Group, Mr. Harold Olaya Leon, SVP. Head of Operations of ONYX Hospitality Group
File photo shows smoke billowing out of the three-story studio of Kyoto Animation Co. in Kyoto on July 18, 2019, after it was set on fire in an arson attack. (Kyodo)
TOKYO – A Japanese court on Thursday sentenced Shinji Aoba to death for the 2019 arson attack on a Kyoto Animation Co. studio that killed 36 people, finding him mentally competent to be held accountable for his crimes.
Aoba, 45, earlier admitted to setting the blaze at the animation firm’s premises in Kyoto, western Japan, on July 18, 2019. In addition to the deaths, 32 employees were injured in the attack that has gone down as one of Japan’s worst mass murders.
As the defendant confessed to his role in the incident, the focus of the trial at the Kyoto District Court had been on whether he could be declared mentally competent.
Aoba had told the court he was motivated to carry out his crimes under the belief that Kyoto Animation had plagiarized a novel he entered into a contest run by the firm.
While Presiding Judge Keisuke Masuda acknowledged that Aoba did suffer from a delusional disorder, his conduct was little affected by it, and the defendant was “not in a state of mental incompetence or diminished capacity” at the time.
The court concluded there was no reason to avoid the death penalty even after considering circumstances favorable to the defendant, such as showing remorse, ruling his responsibility for taking 36 lives is “extremely heavy.”
The defense team had sought an acquittal or lesser sentence, arguing Aoba was not of sound mind and suffering from delusions. The 45-year-old has said he believed he was fighting back against a “dark figure” who was the architect of his book’s failure in the competition and its alleged theft.
Although Aoba apologized to the bereaved for the first time during the trial on Dec. 6, he continued to assert that the firm copied his novel.
A motorcade believed to be carrying Shinji Aoba, who has confessed to a deadly arson attack in July 2019 on a Kyoto Animation Co. studio, heads to the Kyoto District Court in Kyoto, western Japan, on Jan. 25, 2024, for his sentencing hearing. (Kyodo)
On the day of the sentencing, Aoba entered court in a wheelchair pushed by a prison officer, his face and neck showing red scars caused by burns he sustained in the fire. He remained seated when bowing with others present at the start of court proceedings.
When asked if he had anything to say before the court announced his sentence, an emotionless Aoba said he did not. Similarly, he showed little reaction when the court delivered its verdict.
Amid interest in the high-profile trial, 409 members of the public lined up outside the courtroom in snowy conditions in a bid to secure tickets for one of 23 seats made available for observing proceedings.
Kyoto Animation, often referred to as “KyoAni,” is known worldwide for producing hit anime works including “K-On!” and “The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya.”
Smoke billows from a three-story building of Kyoto Animation in a fire in Kyoto, western Japan, Thursday, July 18, 2019. Kyoto prefectural police said the fire broke out Thursday morning after a man burst into it and spread unidentified liquid and put fire. Photo:Kyodo News via AP
The company’s President Hideaki Hatta said in a statement that the court gave an “appropriate response and decision in accordance with the law,” but added, “Even after the ruling, our sorrow has not changed in the slightest.”
He paid tribute to all who took part in the trial and mourned the loss of lives in the attack before pledging that the company will continue to produce work while treasuring its employees.
According to the ruling, Aoba entered the firm’s Studio 1 at around 10:30 a.m. and started the fire using gasoline. There were 70 employees in the building at the time.
The trial began last September, more than four years after the incident, as Aoba sustained life-threatening burns and needed to undergo intense treatment and rehabilitation.
