165 killed on roads over first three days
WATTANA KHAMCHOO
THE NATION
The first three of the New Year Festival's "seven dangerous days" has seen 165 lives lost and 1,782 injured from 1,605 road accidents, the Road Safety Centre reported yesterday.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Policeman nabbed for shooting motorists-The Nation
Police arrested a suspended police officer for allegedly shooting and wounding many motorists on Ratchadapisek Road on December 23.Police Lance Corporal Thirayu Phetmeekha, 28, was nabbed in his home town in Songkhla province, the media were told yesterday. He has allegedly confessed that he got drunk after attending a wedding party in Bangkok's Huai Khwang district, and that after quarrelling with a friend there, he tried to chase and shoot him down. However, he said, he could not find his friend and instead shot at other vehicles in anger.
Records show that Thirayu was prosecuted for attempted murder and drug abuse in 2008. He has been suspended and faces termination.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thai policeman kills six fellow officers
BANGKOK, December 27, 2011 (AFP) - A policeman in southern Thailand shot dead six fellow officers before turning the gun on himself after a drinking session in a police canteen turned sour, local police said Tuesday.
The incident, which also left one policeman severely wounded, took place late on Monday in a border patrol police camp in Phatthalung province, some 840 kilometres (520 miles) south of the capital Bangkok.
"Seven men were found dead including the gunman and one man has critical injuries," Phatthalung police investigator Lieutenant Colonel Prasit Singhapol told AFP by phone.
Prasit said the motive was still unknown but the eight men had been drinking together in the canteen where six of the bodies were found.
"At this stage we think it's a personal conflict," he said.
The gunman's body was found some 200 metres (yards) from the scene after he killed himself with the same assault rifle he used against his colleagues, Prasit said.
Police were unable to confirm local media reports that the group was celebrating the promotions of some of the men.
-- ©Copyright AFP 2011-12-27 | AFP News Sponsor
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thai elephant killed, mutilated 'for restaurants'
Thai elephant. File photo. Source: wikipedia.org
BANGKOK, January 5, 2012 (AFP) - Thai wildlife officials on Thursday said body parts from a dead wild elephant found without its tusks, tail and penis were likely destined for restaurants in tourist areas.
The creature, which was discovered in Kaeng Krachan National Park near the Myanmar border in central Thailand on Monday, is believed to have died at the hands of a local gang of poachers.
"They cut its tusks, trunk, sexual organ and tail. Those parts must be sold to the middleman and will be sent to restaurants in the main tourist spots like Phuket, Surat Thani and Hua Hin," park head Chaiwat Limlikhitaksorn told AFP.
"There is a team of elephant hunters in this area. They are stateless people who live along Thai-Myanmar border," he added.
The wildlife department has found four elephant carcasses killed by poachers in the past three years.
Chaiwat blamed ineffective laws for the increase in the crime and putting more than 250 wild elephants and the officers in danger.
Thailand is known as a global hub for the illegal ivory trade, with a dramatic rise in seizures of tusks in recent years as the decimation of the kingdom's elephants has seen poachers turn to Africa for their plunder.
The country has an ivory sculpting tradition dating back to the late 19th century when an estimated 100,000 elephants roamed the kingdom.
Since then most have been lost to poachers and the clearing of their forest habitat, and now just a few thousand remain, many working in the tourism industry.
Benefiting from its location, Thailand exports much of the ivory to China -- where it is traditionally used in medicinal powders -- and Japan.
-- ©Copyright AFP 2012-01-05 | AFP News Sponsor
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Six dead, police camp raided in Thai south: police
NARATHIWAT, January 6, 2012 (AFP) - More than 30 suspected Muslim rebels attacked a police camp in the Thai south Friday, killing two officers, who were among six left dead by regional violence in less than 24 hours, police said.The rebels raided a dormitory while officers were sleeping in the early morning raid in Narathiwat province, stealing five heavy guns and bullets. Another three officers were also injured.
"They planned well for this attack, in response to our successful raids which destroyed two of their weapon storehouses in December," said Police Colonel Satanpah Wamasingha, the local police chief.
Also on Friday morning in Narathiwat, gunmen shot dead one man and injured his teacher wife as they were driving a pick-up truck in Sungai Kolok town, police said.
In Pattani province, at around noon, there were two drive-by shooting incidents, killing two men and injuring one other.
Late Thursday in Yala province, a villager was shot dead on his way home from work at a rubber plantation.
According to the latest figures from Deep South Watch, which closely monitors the southern conflict, almost 5,000 people -- both Buddhists and Muslims -- have been killed and 8,300 wounded since the unrest began in 2004.
People in the region complain of a long history of discrimination against ethnic Malay Muslims by authorities in the Buddhist-majority nation, including alleged abuses by the armed forces.
-- ©Copyright AFP 2012-01-06 | AFP News Sponsor
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thai officials find tiger parts in the post
Sumatra tiger. File photo, source: wikimedia
BANGKOK, January 6, 2012 (AFP) - Thai customs officials said Friday they had seized four boxes of smuggled tiger skins and bones worth tens of thousands of dollars in the post, believed to be destined for interior decoration.
The tigers, whose parts were found earlier this week, were thought to have come from Indonesia and eventually be destined for China, according to Somchai Poolsawasdi, director general of Royal Thai Customs.
"There were four boxes, and each box contained one tiger skin, bones and a skull. Each one weighed around five kilograms (11 pounds)," he told AFP.
He said the parcels, thought to be sent be a trafficking gang, were en route to Mae Sai in northern Thailand and came through Bangkok's main post office, where officials received the tip-off.
"The way they processed these tigers, I think they were meant for furniture or decoration," he added.
Anti-trafficking group Freeland said the tiger parts were worth an estimated $60,000, warning that the poaching and trafficking of tiger meat, bones and skin was a key cause of the declining wild Asian tiger populations.
"The confiscation of these tiger skins and bones is commendable and has clearly hurt the criminals financially," said Tim Redford of Freeland.
"However, with so few tigers left in the wild, stopping any more ending up like this is vital."
Thailand is one of just 13 countries hosting fragile tiger populations and is a hub of international smuggling. Worldwide, numbers are estimated to have fallen to only 3,200 tigers from approximately 100,000 a century ago.
-- ©Copyright AFP 2012-01-06 | AFP News Sponsor
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted 2012-01-09 05:51:59
MRI scan for tiger in Bangkok hospital is 'first for Asia'
Jim Pollard
The Nation
Getting an MRI scan is a fairly standard procedure for humans, but it's a rare event when it involves a fully grown tiger.
Doctors at a hospital in western Bangkok are believed to have set an Asian first last week when they did a scan - magnetic resonance imagining - to assess the condition of a tiger from a wildlife rescue centre in Phetchaburi.
The object of all this attention was Meow, a 12-year-old male tiger, who has lived for the past 11 years at Wat Khao Luk Chang, a reserve run by the Wildlife Friends Foundation of Thailand.
Meow was taken in for care after falling critically ill in 2001, when he was about 18 months old. WFFT secretary-general Edwin Wiek said Meow came from a petrol station in Cha-am, where he was kept on a chain and often photographed with customers.
The cub had suffered an unknown injury but recovered at the centre, where it could be seen walking around its large enclosure with a lopsided gait.
But to visitors and the many foreign volunteers working at the centre it was obvious that the animal had an affinity for Dutchman Wiek, the person who oversaw his care, and Nom, his keeper for over a decade. The animal was affectionate and would swim and play with its human friends in a nearby lake.
Things went well until a few months ago, when Meow became so ill he could no longer stand. Wiek was advised to put him down.
A resident in Thailand for 22 years, Wiek said he was aware that euthanasia "is not accepted within Buddhist culture". He opted to change the cat's medication and give it intensive physiotherapy, like they did when he first arrived.
Meow responded well, and got his appetite back, but Wiek wanted a full diagnosis. X-rays had shown abnormalities in its spine and neck, then a vet suggested he see if they could do an MRI scan. He rang a doctor at Chulalongkorn University, who got back to say it was possible - but it had to be done at night.
"The management was very happy to help us, but they were concerned that a tiger on a stretcher, even under sedation, would scare the human patients in the
hospital," Wiek said.
Five vets and a nurse oversaw the process last Wednesday, which Wiek said was risky - Meow had to be anaesthetised and still for a 40-minute scan in a machine, into which he only just fitted.
The animal was calm, he said, despite the presence of many hospital staff "who couldn't believe their eyes". Meow stopped breathing, and for a moment he feared they had lost him, but the vets were prepared and got him breathing normally.
The process, at a hospital Wiek preferred not to name publicly because of some sensitivity, went smoothly and they were able to establish that "Meow has a fracture between Cervical 1 & 2 in his neck".
Now, Wiek and surgeons are pondering an operation that would give the animal a good chance of living for another decade. The cost, he said, would be a lot more than the Bt25,000 it cost for the scan.
"But I think Chula will be very cooperative - everybody is thrilled about it," Wiek said last night.
"They have done these - MRI scans - with juvenile tigers in the US. But it's the first time this has been done in Asia. So it's a bit of a first for Thailand."
With the prospect of spinal surgery in the next 10 days, Meow is being fed well.
See: www.wfft.org/bears-nocturnal-animals/meow-a-tiger-undergoing-an-mri-scan/
-- The Nation 2012-01-09
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jim Pollard
The Nation
Getting an MRI scan is a fairly standard procedure for humans, but it's a rare event when it involves a fully grown tiger.
Doctors at a hospital in western Bangkok are believed to have set an Asian first last week when they did a scan - magnetic resonance imagining - to assess the condition of a tiger from a wildlife rescue centre in Phetchaburi.
The object of all this attention was Meow, a 12-year-old male tiger, who has lived for the past 11 years at Wat Khao Luk Chang, a reserve run by the Wildlife Friends Foundation of Thailand.
Meow was taken in for care after falling critically ill in 2001, when he was about 18 months old. WFFT secretary-general Edwin Wiek said Meow came from a petrol station in Cha-am, where he was kept on a chain and often photographed with customers.
The cub had suffered an unknown injury but recovered at the centre, where it could be seen walking around its large enclosure with a lopsided gait.
But to visitors and the many foreign volunteers working at the centre it was obvious that the animal had an affinity for Dutchman Wiek, the person who oversaw his care, and Nom, his keeper for over a decade. The animal was affectionate and would swim and play with its human friends in a nearby lake.
Things went well until a few months ago, when Meow became so ill he could no longer stand. Wiek was advised to put him down.
A resident in Thailand for 22 years, Wiek said he was aware that euthanasia "is not accepted within Buddhist culture". He opted to change the cat's medication and give it intensive physiotherapy, like they did when he first arrived.
Meow responded well, and got his appetite back, but Wiek wanted a full diagnosis. X-rays had shown abnormalities in its spine and neck, then a vet suggested he see if they could do an MRI scan. He rang a doctor at Chulalongkorn University, who got back to say it was possible - but it had to be done at night.
"The management was very happy to help us, but they were concerned that a tiger on a stretcher, even under sedation, would scare the human patients in the
hospital," Wiek said.
Five vets and a nurse oversaw the process last Wednesday, which Wiek said was risky - Meow had to be anaesthetised and still for a 40-minute scan in a machine, into which he only just fitted.
The animal was calm, he said, despite the presence of many hospital staff "who couldn't believe their eyes". Meow stopped breathing, and for a moment he feared they had lost him, but the vets were prepared and got him breathing normally.
The process, at a hospital Wiek preferred not to name publicly because of some sensitivity, went smoothly and they were able to establish that "Meow has a fracture between Cervical 1 & 2 in his neck".
Now, Wiek and surgeons are pondering an operation that would give the animal a good chance of living for another decade. The cost, he said, would be a lot more than the Bt25,000 it cost for the scan.
"But I think Chula will be very cooperative - everybody is thrilled about it," Wiek said last night.
"They have done these - MRI scans - with juvenile tigers in the US. But it's the first time this has been done in Asia. So it's a bit of a first for Thailand."
With the prospect of spinal surgery in the next 10 days, Meow is being fed well.
See: www.wfft.org/bears-nocturnal-animals/meow-a-tiger-undergoing-an-mri-scan/
-- The Nation 2012-01-09
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted 2012-01-10 15:25:11
POPULAR
POPULAR
Surin Man Married His Dead Girlfriend
Could this is be a proof of true love? News of a Surin man marrying his dead girlfriend became viral on social media after the news had to 'shared' more than 50,000 in the cyber world.
image1.jpeg 24.96K 405 downloads
It was the 'talk of the town' on Facebook. The story about a young man from Surin Province marrying his deceased girlfriend. Pictures of a man, dressed in a black formal wear, putting a ring on the finger of his late girlfriend, circulated like wild fire on the popular social network site and YouTube. 50,000 people had clicked to share the stories and expressed their condolences for the groom
Chadil Deffy, or Deff Yingyuen, stated his love for his late girlfriend, Sarinya or Anne Kamsook. Much to the surprise of his friends, on January 4, Deff posted on his Facebook page, inviting his friends to an wedding-cum-funeral rite for his longtime girlfriend at a local temple in Surin Province.
image2.jpeg 25.47K 370 downloads
The couple had been together for 10 years. They made a promise to get married before the bride died in an unexpected accident. Deff said their wedding was postponed due to conflicting schedules and his decision to continued his studies before he settled down in a matrimony with Sarinya.
After having been through thick and thin with Sarinya for over a decade, Deff stood by his promise and married her in a bittersweet ceremony.
-- Tan Network 2012-01-10
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Could this is be a proof of true love? News of a Surin man marrying his dead girlfriend became viral on social media after the news had to 'shared' more than 50,000 in the cyber world.
image1.jpeg 24.96K 405 downloadsIt was the 'talk of the town' on Facebook. The story about a young man from Surin Province marrying his deceased girlfriend. Pictures of a man, dressed in a black formal wear, putting a ring on the finger of his late girlfriend, circulated like wild fire on the popular social network site and YouTube. 50,000 people had clicked to share the stories and expressed their condolences for the groom
Chadil Deffy, or Deff Yingyuen, stated his love for his late girlfriend, Sarinya or Anne Kamsook. Much to the surprise of his friends, on January 4, Deff posted on his Facebook page, inviting his friends to an wedding-cum-funeral rite for his longtime girlfriend at a local temple in Surin Province.
image2.jpeg 25.47K 370 downloadsThe couple had been together for 10 years. They made a promise to get married before the bride died in an unexpected accident. Deff said their wedding was postponed due to conflicting schedules and his decision to continued his studies before he settled down in a matrimony with Sarinya.
After having been through thick and thin with Sarinya for over a decade, Deff stood by his promise and married her in a bittersweet ceremony.
-- Tan Network 2012-01-10
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted 2012-01-11 06:30:23
Corruption is just a part of society
Pravit Rojanaphruk
There are people who believe that if Thailand could just stop corrupt politicians from ever getting elected, then the Kingdom would once and for all be free of graft. Few, however, understand that graft, corruption and bribery, at least in its legal, subtle and insidious forms, is very much part of Thai culture and society.
Take, for example, the daily requests and prayers offered at Hindu and Buddhist altars, to animistic deities and the statue of King Rama V. They always come with a promise of an offering if the wishes are "granted" and the "repayment" for such supernatural favours range from flowers, wooden elephants, statuettes of dancers to running around stark naked, depending on how big the wish is.
Besides, these offerings are not just the norm among the less-educated Thais. Many "well-educated" people also make such offerings in exchange for good grades, enrolment at prestigious colleges or promotions at work.
Then there's the widespread practice of acquiring and wearing Buddhist amulets in the belief they can make the wearer popular, rich, sexually attractive or even strong enough to withstand the impact of bullets. Whether these offerings are reliable or not, the issue is that for many who believe in them, they are also a form of bribery.
Another aspect of subtle corruption is favouritism within the old boys' network. When your old school chum calls you up asking for a favour that might be seen by some as nepotism, it's often very difficult to say no.
Recently, a friend - known for his honesty and spirituality - thought nothing of sending me two Buddhist philosophy books with the note: "If you think the books are of interest or of some value, perhaps you would be so kind as to review them." I'm afraid I was not a very "good" friend because I have not written reviews about them yet.
People in power can help friends of friends or even their favourite underlings by using their influence or abusing their professional position. And it is still quite common to be soft when old friends make such requests.
The idea of graft and corruption came to Thailand with Chinese immigrants, who brought with them the practice of "tea money", which has since taken root in the country. During times past, kingdoms under the sphere of influence such as the realm of Pattani also used to offer tributes to sovereigns in Bangkok, and these offerings took the form of small silver and gold trees among other things.
Today, the practice of giving highly priced "gifts" or "donations" to people with power and influence at the top of social and political echelons continues without question.
Perhaps these offerings may not be considered "legal" in other parts of the world, but they are actually very much a part of Thai society and the cultural environment. Not paying attention to these subtle aspects of bribery and yet moaning about corruption is like saying it's okay to drink beer but not whisky.
Maybe corrupt politicians are more like the rest of us than we would like to admit. The idea of corruption does not come from Mars, it is very much part of an ordinary "legal" aspect of Thai society.
-- The Nation 2012-01-11
Pravit Rojanaphruk
There are people who believe that if Thailand could just stop corrupt politicians from ever getting elected, then the Kingdom would once and for all be free of graft. Few, however, understand that graft, corruption and bribery, at least in its legal, subtle and insidious forms, is very much part of Thai culture and society.
Take, for example, the daily requests and prayers offered at Hindu and Buddhist altars, to animistic deities and the statue of King Rama V. They always come with a promise of an offering if the wishes are "granted" and the "repayment" for such supernatural favours range from flowers, wooden elephants, statuettes of dancers to running around stark naked, depending on how big the wish is.
Besides, these offerings are not just the norm among the less-educated Thais. Many "well-educated" people also make such offerings in exchange for good grades, enrolment at prestigious colleges or promotions at work.
Then there's the widespread practice of acquiring and wearing Buddhist amulets in the belief they can make the wearer popular, rich, sexually attractive or even strong enough to withstand the impact of bullets. Whether these offerings are reliable or not, the issue is that for many who believe in them, they are also a form of bribery.
Another aspect of subtle corruption is favouritism within the old boys' network. When your old school chum calls you up asking for a favour that might be seen by some as nepotism, it's often very difficult to say no.
Recently, a friend - known for his honesty and spirituality - thought nothing of sending me two Buddhist philosophy books with the note: "If you think the books are of interest or of some value, perhaps you would be so kind as to review them." I'm afraid I was not a very "good" friend because I have not written reviews about them yet.
People in power can help friends of friends or even their favourite underlings by using their influence or abusing their professional position. And it is still quite common to be soft when old friends make such requests.
The idea of graft and corruption came to Thailand with Chinese immigrants, who brought with them the practice of "tea money", which has since taken root in the country. During times past, kingdoms under the sphere of influence such as the realm of Pattani also used to offer tributes to sovereigns in Bangkok, and these offerings took the form of small silver and gold trees among other things.
Today, the practice of giving highly priced "gifts" or "donations" to people with power and influence at the top of social and political echelons continues without question.
Perhaps these offerings may not be considered "legal" in other parts of the world, but they are actually very much a part of Thai society and the cultural environment. Not paying attention to these subtle aspects of bribery and yet moaning about corruption is like saying it's okay to drink beer but not whisky.
Maybe corrupt politicians are more like the rest of us than we would like to admit. The idea of corruption does not come from Mars, it is very much part of an ordinary "legal" aspect of Thai society.
-- The Nation 2012-01-11
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted 2012-01-11 12:36:38
High Ranking Customs Official Physically Abuses Airport Security
Anyone think abuse of power is a rampant occurrence in Thailand? Well, this story will prove you right. A video clip has been making rounds on social networks in Thailand. The clip was posted on You Tube by someone who calls themselves “Bilingual Thailand”. The poster claims that this video clip was taken from footage of a close circuit camera in an airport. Stopping short of naming which airport the clip was taken from, “Bilingual Thailand” claims that the older gentleman wearing glasses is a high ranking official in the Customs Department who refused to go through the airport's normal security checks.
In the 1.14 minute long clip, airport security personnel tried to use a metal detector on this particular gentleman, but the said gentlemen immediately refused and continued to tell the airport personnel off. After which, he boxed the official's ears and continued with his tirade as dumbfounded onlookers watched.
“Bilingual Thailand” includes their own comment in the caption saying that just because some people have high ranking titles does not mean they have high intellect. They go on to comment about how sad it is that high ranking Thai officials like to flex their muscles when dealing with lower ranking officials, but once they walk off Thai soil, they become closed-lipped mice themselves.
In the latest development, the secretary general of the Customs Department has suspended the civil servant in the clip and has launched an investigation into the matter. The investigation is said to be complete within 30 days.
Translated from www.thairath.co.th
-- Tan Network 2012-01-11
Anyone think abuse of power is a rampant occurrence in Thailand? Well, this story will prove you right. A video clip has been making rounds on social networks in Thailand. The clip was posted on You Tube by someone who calls themselves “Bilingual Thailand”. The poster claims that this video clip was taken from footage of a close circuit camera in an airport. Stopping short of naming which airport the clip was taken from, “Bilingual Thailand” claims that the older gentleman wearing glasses is a high ranking official in the Customs Department who refused to go through the airport's normal security checks.
In the 1.14 minute long clip, airport security personnel tried to use a metal detector on this particular gentleman, but the said gentlemen immediately refused and continued to tell the airport personnel off. After which, he boxed the official's ears and continued with his tirade as dumbfounded onlookers watched.
“Bilingual Thailand” includes their own comment in the caption saying that just because some people have high ranking titles does not mean they have high intellect. They go on to comment about how sad it is that high ranking Thai officials like to flex their muscles when dealing with lower ranking officials, but once they walk off Thai soil, they become closed-lipped mice themselves.
In the latest development, the secretary general of the Customs Department has suspended the civil servant in the clip and has launched an investigation into the matter. The investigation is said to be complete within 30 days.
Translated from www.thairath.co.th
-- Tan Network 2012-01-11
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted 2012-01-13 10:29:14
Photographer’s Description [Hu Yuanjia]: “I remember clearly that it was about 5 p.m. on November 25. I was just finishing an assignment photographing retired military soldiers bidding farewell to their comrades at the train station. On my way out, I heard someone yelling from a corner and soon after lots of people gathered around. I ran towards the sound and made my way to the front of the crowd, only to find an old man dead on the bench. As I raised my camera, a Buddhist monk walked out of the crowd and went directly towards the dead man. The monk bent down to hold the old man’s hand and started to chant scriptures. I began to take pictures immediately. One minute later, police came over and cordoned off the area. After the monk finished the ceremony, he bowed to the old man and quickly disappeared among the other busy passengers.” [Shanxi Taiyuan Train Station]
Nikon D3, lens 52mm, f3.5, 1/160, ISO 4000
Japanese Adult Movie With Thai 'Actress' Use BKK Airport
A Japanese porn production company used Suvannabhumi airport as backdrop. The script is about a Thai air hostess approached by a Japanese man and taken to a room on Sukhumvit road. The porn movie is on VCD and on the internet. The police is investigating the evidence including CCTV footage from the airport.
This is not the first time that Thailand is used a backdrop for a porn movie. But this case was widely critcized after people found that the porn movie producers had used Suvannabhumi airport as part of the script. There are now questions about the security at Suvannabhumi international airport.
The reporter found a copy this XXX movie at the Klong Thom market, the vendor said that he copied the film from the internet. Now he is selling hundreds of VCD per day.The film is two hours long. The first scene is from Suvannabhumi airport where a beautiful flight attendant introduces herself in Thai. Japanese subtitles are included.
Air Hostess : “I have been working for an airline since two years. I graduated from the well known university. I enjoy working with a good company, a good position, I travel to Europe very often. I like brand name products and works of art. Sometimes I think that I would like to live in Europe. That would be good.”
Air Hostess : “About my boy friend, there are some isues that I am not satisfied with.”
After talking to the camera, the air hostess walks across to the the departure hall at Suvannabhumi airport and a Japanese guy walks up to her. Talks to her. Takes her suitcase. And unwillingly she walks with him towards the carpark. Next scene the car is on the express way. Inside the car that the air hostess and the Japanese man who was harassing her.
She is trying to resist him all the time, “What are you doing?, where will you take me to?”, she says. He face shows anger.They arrive at Sukhumvit road. Next scene in the room and the air hostess asks the Japanese guy. “Why you bring me here ?”. Another man enters the room. They grab her and throw her on the sofa and then the x-rated scenes start.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Piya Utayo, Office of the National Police said, that the statistics show that very few x-rated movies have been produced in Thailand. But these films can ruin the image of Thailand and the police will coordinate with the ICT ministry to block websites and companies distributing x-rated movies produced in Thailand.
Full story and picture HERE
-- Pattaya Daily News 2012-01-13
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A Japanese porn production company used Suvannabhumi airport as backdrop. The script is about a Thai air hostess approached by a Japanese man and taken to a room on Sukhumvit road. The porn movie is on VCD and on the internet. The police is investigating the evidence including CCTV footage from the airport.
This is not the first time that Thailand is used a backdrop for a porn movie. But this case was widely critcized after people found that the porn movie producers had used Suvannabhumi airport as part of the script. There are now questions about the security at Suvannabhumi international airport.
The reporter found a copy this XXX movie at the Klong Thom market, the vendor said that he copied the film from the internet. Now he is selling hundreds of VCD per day.The film is two hours long. The first scene is from Suvannabhumi airport where a beautiful flight attendant introduces herself in Thai. Japanese subtitles are included.
Air Hostess : “I have been working for an airline since two years. I graduated from the well known university. I enjoy working with a good company, a good position, I travel to Europe very often. I like brand name products and works of art. Sometimes I think that I would like to live in Europe. That would be good.”
Air Hostess : “About my boy friend, there are some isues that I am not satisfied with.”
After talking to the camera, the air hostess walks across to the the departure hall at Suvannabhumi airport and a Japanese guy walks up to her. Talks to her. Takes her suitcase. And unwillingly she walks with him towards the carpark. Next scene the car is on the express way. Inside the car that the air hostess and the Japanese man who was harassing her.
She is trying to resist him all the time, “What are you doing?, where will you take me to?”, she says. He face shows anger.They arrive at Sukhumvit road. Next scene in the room and the air hostess asks the Japanese guy. “Why you bring me here ?”. Another man enters the room. They grab her and throw her on the sofa and then the x-rated scenes start.
Pol. Maj. Gen. Piya Utayo, Office of the National Police said, that the statistics show that very few x-rated movies have been produced in Thailand. But these films can ruin the image of Thailand and the police will coordinate with the ICT ministry to block websites and companies distributing x-rated movies produced in Thailand.
Full story and picture HERE
-- Pattaya Daily News 2012-01-13
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phuket newsman killed in gun attack
Phuket Gazette
Three of the four bullets fired struck Mr Wisut in the upper body. Photo: Atchaa Khamlo
Phuket newsman Wisut 'Ae Inside' Tangwitthayaporn (right) meets Wichai Phraisa-ngop about the red-shirt movement in Phuket in 2009. Mr Wichai was Phuket Governor at the time, and is now a Phuket Senator. Photo: Gazette file
PHUKET: -- A Phuket newsman was shot dead by a man riding pillion on a motorbike this morning.
Wisut “Ae Inside” Tangwitthayaporn, 40, was driving with his wife to Provincial Hall in Phuket Town when the ambush was sprung.
He had just pulled out of the entrance of Srisuchart Grandview onto Thepkrasattri Road and was intending to make a U-turn on the main road when a motorbike with two riders cut him off and forced him to stop in the middle of the southbound lane.
The unidentified gunman then fired four shots through the windshield of Mr Wisut’s Honda Jazz, striking Mr Wisut in the chest.
Mr Wisut, owner and editor of Inside Phuket newspaper and editor of Phuket E-news, was a well-known member of the red-shirt community in Phuket and is known to have participated in the red-shirt demonstrations in Bangkok a year ago.
Mr Wisut was rushed to Vachira Phuket Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at about 10:30am.
Police have yet to announce any possible motives for the attack.
Source: http://www.phuketgaz...ticle11976.html
-- Phuket Gazette 2012-01-12
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phuket Gazette
Three of the four bullets fired struck Mr Wisut in the upper body. Photo: Atchaa Khamlo
Phuket newsman Wisut 'Ae Inside' Tangwitthayaporn (right) meets Wichai Phraisa-ngop about the red-shirt movement in Phuket in 2009. Mr Wichai was Phuket Governor at the time, and is now a Phuket Senator. Photo: Gazette file
PHUKET: -- A Phuket newsman was shot dead by a man riding pillion on a motorbike this morning.
Wisut “Ae Inside” Tangwitthayaporn, 40, was driving with his wife to Provincial Hall in Phuket Town when the ambush was sprung.
He had just pulled out of the entrance of Srisuchart Grandview onto Thepkrasattri Road and was intending to make a U-turn on the main road when a motorbike with two riders cut him off and forced him to stop in the middle of the southbound lane.
The unidentified gunman then fired four shots through the windshield of Mr Wisut’s Honda Jazz, striking Mr Wisut in the chest.
Mr Wisut, owner and editor of Inside Phuket newspaper and editor of Phuket E-news, was a well-known member of the red-shirt community in Phuket and is known to have participated in the red-shirt demonstrations in Bangkok a year ago.
Mr Wisut was rushed to Vachira Phuket Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at about 10:30am.
Police have yet to announce any possible motives for the attack.
Source: http://www.phuketgaz...ticle11976.html
-- Phuket Gazette 2012-01-12
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chalerm denies threat of terror
The Nation
Following US Embassy warning to Americans, Thai authorities confirm arrest of suspect linked to Hezbollah
Senior Thai officials scrambled yesterday to deny that Thailand faced an immediate terrorist threat, following a dramatic warning by the US Embassy to Americans living here.
The Thai authorities, led by Deputy Prime Minister Chalerm Yoobamrung, however, confirmed the arrest of a terrorist suspect and admitted that security was being stepped up. The officials, however, were ambiguous and even confusing in their statements, and the US ambassador to Thailand insisted afterwards that the embassy warning "still holds".
Chalerm said police had detained a Lebanese man with suspected links to the Hezbollah militant group. In other interviews earlier, Chalerm had talked about two arrests.
The Thai Foreign Ministry and the police both said the Bangkok government had been on a constant terrorist alert for some time, but the situation was now "under control" following cooperation with international intelligence authorities and stepped-up local measures.
Unclear, of course, was the status of the person or persons in custody. The latest information indicated that only one person was interrogated and no charge had yet been levelled.
Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra also said the situation was under control, and that the alert was nothing unusual.
Surveillance intensified
An intelligence source told The Nation that one foreign man had been detained, but he was one of a few suspected terrorists who have entered the country. The man was still in custody yesterday but he had refused to give any statement, according to the source.
"This suspect has entered Thailand many times," the source said. "Security measures have been on-going. Police in plain clothes have been deployed at Khao San Road and surveillance has also been intensified in Pattaya."
The Thai government's frantic denial of an immediate and serious terrorist threat came hours after the US Embassy posted on its home page the no-nonsense warning, which Ambassador Kristie Kenney would describe later in one of her tweets as "real and Bangkok specific".
"Foreign terrorists may be currently looking to conduct attacks against tourist areas in Bangkok in the near future," the US Embassy in Bangkok said in the emergency message posted on its website.
"US citizens are urged to exercise caution when visiting public areas where large groups of Western tourists gather in Bangkok."
Thai officials said the man in custody had suspected links to the Hezbollah militant group.
A senior Thai intelligence officer, who did not want to be named, told news agency AFP that the Kingdom had been informed before the New Year by Israel of a possible threat. The suspect was detained on Thursday while the other man had already fled the country, he said.
'Nothing to worry about'
Chalerm told AFP by telephone that the detained suspect was being questioned by Thai authorities.
"We already have one suspect in custody for interrogation at a government building in Bangkok. He is a Hezbollah [member] from Lebanon," he said.
"I want to assure people that there is nothing to worry about. The police will take care of the situation and everything will be under control."
Defence Minister Yuthasak Sasiprapha seemed to take the threat more seriously. He said security would be increased yesterday evening if no more information emerged on the hideout of other suspects.
According to Yuthasak, quoted by Thai Rath online, Israelis living in Thailand were feared to be targets, a situation that naturally worried the American Embassy. He said the feared period of attack was between January 13-15.
In response to a Twitter inquiry after the Thai government's denial of immediate threat, the US ambassador said that her embassy's warning to American citizens remained in effect.
Hezbollah, an Iranian- and Syrian-backed Muslim Shi'ite group, is blacklisted as a terrorist organisation by Washington and currently dominates the Lebanese government.
"Israel was suspicious that these two men might be terrorists, so they gave information, including their names, to our police before the New Year," the senior intelligence officer told AFP.
"These two men entered Thailand a while ago but did not conduct any terrorist activity. I wonder why Israel was suspicious about them."
After last year's devastating flooding, the embassy warning is another blow to Thailand's tourist-friendly image, adding to years of political turmoil that sometimes turned violent and bloody.
In August 2003, alleged mastermind Riduan Isamuddin, an Indonesian known as Hambali, was arrested in Thailand. He was suspected of being al-Qaeda's representative in Southeast Asia and operational chief of the Southeast Asian militant group Jemaah Islamiyah.
-- The Nation 2012-01-14
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Nation
Following US Embassy warning to Americans, Thai authorities confirm arrest of suspect linked to Hezbollah
Senior Thai officials scrambled yesterday to deny that Thailand faced an immediate terrorist threat, following a dramatic warning by the US Embassy to Americans living here.
The Thai authorities, led by Deputy Prime Minister Chalerm Yoobamrung, however, confirmed the arrest of a terrorist suspect and admitted that security was being stepped up. The officials, however, were ambiguous and even confusing in their statements, and the US ambassador to Thailand insisted afterwards that the embassy warning "still holds".
Chalerm said police had detained a Lebanese man with suspected links to the Hezbollah militant group. In other interviews earlier, Chalerm had talked about two arrests.
The Thai Foreign Ministry and the police both said the Bangkok government had been on a constant terrorist alert for some time, but the situation was now "under control" following cooperation with international intelligence authorities and stepped-up local measures.
Unclear, of course, was the status of the person or persons in custody. The latest information indicated that only one person was interrogated and no charge had yet been levelled.
Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra also said the situation was under control, and that the alert was nothing unusual.
Surveillance intensified
An intelligence source told The Nation that one foreign man had been detained, but he was one of a few suspected terrorists who have entered the country. The man was still in custody yesterday but he had refused to give any statement, according to the source.
"This suspect has entered Thailand many times," the source said. "Security measures have been on-going. Police in plain clothes have been deployed at Khao San Road and surveillance has also been intensified in Pattaya."
The Thai government's frantic denial of an immediate and serious terrorist threat came hours after the US Embassy posted on its home page the no-nonsense warning, which Ambassador Kristie Kenney would describe later in one of her tweets as "real and Bangkok specific".
"Foreign terrorists may be currently looking to conduct attacks against tourist areas in Bangkok in the near future," the US Embassy in Bangkok said in the emergency message posted on its website.
"US citizens are urged to exercise caution when visiting public areas where large groups of Western tourists gather in Bangkok."
Thai officials said the man in custody had suspected links to the Hezbollah militant group.
A senior Thai intelligence officer, who did not want to be named, told news agency AFP that the Kingdom had been informed before the New Year by Israel of a possible threat. The suspect was detained on Thursday while the other man had already fled the country, he said.
'Nothing to worry about'
Chalerm told AFP by telephone that the detained suspect was being questioned by Thai authorities.
"We already have one suspect in custody for interrogation at a government building in Bangkok. He is a Hezbollah [member] from Lebanon," he said.
"I want to assure people that there is nothing to worry about. The police will take care of the situation and everything will be under control."
Defence Minister Yuthasak Sasiprapha seemed to take the threat more seriously. He said security would be increased yesterday evening if no more information emerged on the hideout of other suspects.
According to Yuthasak, quoted by Thai Rath online, Israelis living in Thailand were feared to be targets, a situation that naturally worried the American Embassy. He said the feared period of attack was between January 13-15.
In response to a Twitter inquiry after the Thai government's denial of immediate threat, the US ambassador said that her embassy's warning to American citizens remained in effect.
Hezbollah, an Iranian- and Syrian-backed Muslim Shi'ite group, is blacklisted as a terrorist organisation by Washington and currently dominates the Lebanese government.
"Israel was suspicious that these two men might be terrorists, so they gave information, including their names, to our police before the New Year," the senior intelligence officer told AFP.
"These two men entered Thailand a while ago but did not conduct any terrorist activity. I wonder why Israel was suspicious about them."
After last year's devastating flooding, the embassy warning is another blow to Thailand's tourist-friendly image, adding to years of political turmoil that sometimes turned violent and bloody.
In August 2003, alleged mastermind Riduan Isamuddin, an Indonesian known as Hambali, was arrested in Thailand. He was suspected of being al-Qaeda's representative in Southeast Asia and operational chief of the Southeast Asian militant group Jemaah Islamiyah.
-- The Nation 2012-01-14
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Police find explosive chemicals linked to terror plot
SAMUT SAKHON, Jan 16 - Thai police early Monday led a terror suspect to search a commercial building in Samut Sakhon province, adjacent to the capital, where they discovered chemical substances which could be used in making explosives.
Police chief Pol Gen Priewpan Damapong led about 200 metropolitan police bomb disposal and forensic experts to search two units of a commercial building in the Samut Sakhon provincial seat.
The search came after a Swedish-Lebanese terror suspect was detained on Friday.
A large amount of urea fertiliser and ammonium nitrate solution were found hidden in the building.
According to the initial investigation, the building has been rented since Jan 1, 2011. The police will detain the owner of the building for further questioning for alleged involvement in possession of explosive mixtures without permission.
Atris Hussein, a 48 year-old Lebanese man with suspected links to a Hezbollah, a militant group in Lebanon, was apprehended for questioning on Friday at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport under the immigration law, which allows for a 60-day detention, while he was leaving Thailand on the same day as the US embassy in Bangkok issued a terrorist threat warning for the capital.
After questioning, Gen Priewpan said Mr Hussein, a Lebanese with a Swedish passport, will be deported to his country without being charged, as he had not committed any wrongdoing. (MCOT online news)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SAMUT SAKHON, Jan 16 - Thai police early Monday led a terror suspect to search a commercial building in Samut Sakhon province, adjacent to the capital, where they discovered chemical substances which could be used in making explosives.
Police chief Pol Gen Priewpan Damapong led about 200 metropolitan police bomb disposal and forensic experts to search two units of a commercial building in the Samut Sakhon provincial seat.
The search came after a Swedish-Lebanese terror suspect was detained on Friday.
A large amount of urea fertiliser and ammonium nitrate solution were found hidden in the building.
According to the initial investigation, the building has been rented since Jan 1, 2011. The police will detain the owner of the building for further questioning for alleged involvement in possession of explosive mixtures without permission.
Atris Hussein, a 48 year-old Lebanese man with suspected links to a Hezbollah, a militant group in Lebanon, was apprehended for questioning on Friday at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport under the immigration law, which allows for a 60-day detention, while he was leaving Thailand on the same day as the US embassy in Bangkok issued a terrorist threat warning for the capital.
After questioning, Gen Priewpan said Mr Hussein, a Lebanese with a Swedish passport, will be deported to his country without being charged, as he had not committed any wrongdoing. (MCOT online news)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A PRAYER FOR THE DEAD
Photograph by HU YUANJIA/Reuters/ Asian News Photo
Photographer’s Description [Hu Yuanjia]: “I remember clearly that it was about 5 p.m. on November 25. I was just finishing an assignment photographing retired military soldiers bidding farewell to their comrades at the train station. On my way out, I heard someone yelling from a corner and soon after lots of people gathered around. I ran towards the sound and made my way to the front of the crowd, only to find an old man dead on the bench. As I raised my camera, a Buddhist monk walked out of the crowd and went directly towards the dead man. The monk bent down to hold the old man’s hand and started to chant scriptures. I began to take pictures immediately. One minute later, police came over and cordoned off the area. After the monk finished the ceremony, he bowed to the old man and quickly disappeared among the other busy passengers.” [Shanxi Taiyuan Train Station]
Nikon D3, lens 52mm, f3.5, 1/160, ISO 4000
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Officials warn of fake monks' targeting Phuket tourists
Phuket Gazette
Chatpawit Jinapong warns of fake 'monks' collecting donations from tourists and locals in Phuket. Photo: Warisa Temram
Most genuine Buddhist monks do not seek alms after 8am, said Mr Chatpawit. Photo: Warisa Temram
PHUKET: -- The 'monk police’ of Phuket are warning everyone on the island of con men who are impersonating Buddhist monks and tricking locals and tourists into giving them money.
Chatpawit Jinapong, Director of the Phuket branch of the National Office of Buddhism, which operates directly under the Prime Minister's Office, spoke with the Phuket Gazette about these fraudulent “monks”.
“High season in Phuket attracts a lot of these con men who dress like Buddhist monks to get money, which really isn’t appropriate. We found that most are from Cambodia, here in Phuket on tourist visas, though there are Thai fake-monks too,” he said.
On casual observation the phony monks appear to be collecting alms as part of a merit making ceremony. However, their true objective is to collect money rather than other offerings such as food.
“Thai monks follow a very strict monastic code and they do not collect alms after 8am, whereas these fake monks are collecting alms all day long,” said Mr Chatpawit.
“However, we have caught more than 10 and Phuket Immigration have deported them,” he said.
Mr Chatpawit went on to explain how to spot the bogus monks, who often operate in busy places such as markets and tourist attractions.
“Fake-monks are not calm when collecting alms, they are frequently looking around and trying to identify people likely to offer money instead of food,” he said.
The biggest giveaway is a “monk” collecting alms after 8am, he said.
Though they have caught dozens of the con men, Mr Chatpawit says he and his team of five officers have their work cut out for them.
“We have three ‘monk’ police officers in each of the three Phuket districts to keep an eye on things, generally the beaches, especially Patong Beach,” he said.
To aid Mr Chatpawit’s team, he has asked regular police officers to also be on the lookout for these frauds.
“The penalty for impersonating a monk is a 3,000 baht or up to three months imprisonment,” he added.
Source: http://www.phuketgaz...ticle12076.html
-- Phuket Gazette 2012-01-20
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted 2012-01-20 15:53:48
Five Killed in Crash Resulting from Shooting
A total of five people died in a crash caused by a drive-by shooting early this morning.A witness in the truck says the attack resulted from a brawl between one of its passengers with someone at a pub.
Three of the victims were identified as Somchai Sitthipong, Worrawuth Wicchupanyapong, and Arom Saelao.
The incident also injured two other people.
Four men were first sent to Bangpakok and Ratburana hospitals for medical treatment and two of them later died.
The shooting took place at the entrance of Soi Suksawas 23, just 1.5 meter from Bangpakok Hospital.
Investigators said they found ammunition rounds and two 9 millimeter-caliber bullets in the sedan believed to be carrying the gunman.
They also found two bullet holes on the left side of the pickup truck.
A witness who was a passenger in the truck said it was carrying 10 friends from a pub on Rama III Road.
The witness said one of his friends had a quarrel with a group of revelers at the pub before their truck was shot more than 10 times by a gunman.
He believes the shooting was a result of the brawl.
He said the attack caused the truck to crash into a tree.
Investigators are now in the process of identifying and searching for the six in the suspected sedan for interrogation.
-- Tan Network 2012-01-20
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted 2012-01-23 11:20:13
Officials warn of fake monks' targeting Phuket tourists
Phuket Gazette
Chatpawit Jinapong warns of fake 'monks' collecting donations from tourists and locals in Phuket. Photo: Warisa Temram
Most genuine Buddhist monks do not seek alms after 8am, said Mr Chatpawit. Photo: Warisa Temram
PHUKET: -- The 'monk police’ of Phuket are warning everyone on the island of con men who are impersonating Buddhist monks and tricking locals and tourists into giving them money.
Chatpawit Jinapong, Director of the Phuket branch of the National Office of Buddhism, which operates directly under the Prime Minister's Office, spoke with the Phuket Gazette about these fraudulent “monks”.
“High season in Phuket attracts a lot of these con men who dress like Buddhist monks to get money, which really isn’t appropriate. We found that most are from Cambodia, here in Phuket on tourist visas, though there are Thai fake-monks too,” he said.
On casual observation the phony monks appear to be collecting alms as part of a merit making ceremony. However, their true objective is to collect money rather than other offerings such as food.
“Thai monks follow a very strict monastic code and they do not collect alms after 8am, whereas these fake monks are collecting alms all day long,” said Mr Chatpawit.
“However, we have caught more than 10 and Phuket Immigration have deported them,” he said.
Mr Chatpawit went on to explain how to spot the bogus monks, who often operate in busy places such as markets and tourist attractions.
“Fake-monks are not calm when collecting alms, they are frequently looking around and trying to identify people likely to offer money instead of food,” he said.
The biggest giveaway is a “monk” collecting alms after 8am, he said.
Though they have caught dozens of the con men, Mr Chatpawit says he and his team of five officers have their work cut out for them.
“We have three ‘monk’ police officers in each of the three Phuket districts to keep an eye on things, generally the beaches, especially Patong Beach,” he said.
To aid Mr Chatpawit’s team, he has asked regular police officers to also be on the lookout for these frauds.
“The penalty for impersonating a monk is a 3,000 baht or up to three months imprisonment,” he added.
Source: http://www.phuketgaz...ticle12076.html
-- Phuket Gazette 2012-01-20
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted 2012-01-20 15:53:48
Photos of Naked Casino Dealers Shock Police
Photographs of naked women dealing cards and facilitating gambling have hit Thai internet pages. The photographs show the women surrounded by gamblers with Thai signs explaining gambling rules and Thai money being used to bet at the tables. It is, therefore, believed the illegal casino is located in Thailand.
These photographs have been widely forwarded on the Internet these past couple of days. In one of the shots, the woman, standing bare chested in a group of gamblers, has the duty of rolling the dice. However, so far, no one has been able to identify exactly where the casino is located. If it it found, local police officers in the area could be found guilty of malfeasance.
Acting Deputy Metropolitan Police Commander Police Lieutenant General Pisit Pisutsak said he is still unsure if the photographs are genuine. If the photos are real, it signals a significant evolving of illegal gambling dens in Thailand which are now using naked women to lure gamblers into their establishments. If the dens are found in Bangkok, perpetrators will be convicted according to the law.
Translated from www.matichon.co.th
-- Tan Network 2012-01-20
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Photographs of naked women dealing cards and facilitating gambling have hit Thai internet pages. The photographs show the women surrounded by gamblers with Thai signs explaining gambling rules and Thai money being used to bet at the tables. It is, therefore, believed the illegal casino is located in Thailand.These photographs have been widely forwarded on the Internet these past couple of days. In one of the shots, the woman, standing bare chested in a group of gamblers, has the duty of rolling the dice. However, so far, no one has been able to identify exactly where the casino is located. If it it found, local police officers in the area could be found guilty of malfeasance.
Acting Deputy Metropolitan Police Commander Police Lieutenant General Pisit Pisutsak said he is still unsure if the photographs are genuine. If the photos are real, it signals a significant evolving of illegal gambling dens in Thailand which are now using naked women to lure gamblers into their establishments. If the dens are found in Bangkok, perpetrators will be convicted according to the law.
Translated from www.matichon.co.th
-- Tan Network 2012-01-20
Five Killed in Crash Resulting from Shooting
A total of five people died in a crash caused by a drive-by shooting early this morning.A witness in the truck says the attack resulted from a brawl between one of its passengers with someone at a pub.
Three of the victims were identified as Somchai Sitthipong, Worrawuth Wicchupanyapong, and Arom Saelao.
The incident also injured two other people.
Four men were first sent to Bangpakok and Ratburana hospitals for medical treatment and two of them later died.
The shooting took place at the entrance of Soi Suksawas 23, just 1.5 meter from Bangpakok Hospital.
Investigators said they found ammunition rounds and two 9 millimeter-caliber bullets in the sedan believed to be carrying the gunman.
They also found two bullet holes on the left side of the pickup truck.
A witness who was a passenger in the truck said it was carrying 10 friends from a pub on Rama III Road.
The witness said one of his friends had a quarrel with a group of revelers at the pub before their truck was shot more than 10 times by a gunman.
He believes the shooting was a result of the brawl.
He said the attack caused the truck to crash into a tree.
Investigators are now in the process of identifying and searching for the six in the suspected sedan for interrogation.
-- Tan Network 2012-01-20
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted 2012-01-23 11:20:13
Female Traffic Police Hit Bangkok Streets Today
If you don't look hard enough, you might not notice them. They're dressed like their male counterparts, but are expected to bring a fresh, gentle approach to enforcing traffic laws in a capital city notorious for its unorganized driving and horrendous traffic jams. 18 female traffic police officers are set to hit the streets of Bangkok today, January 23. Their first call of duty is to patrol and monitor traffic in areas congested due to Chinese New Year festivities, especially the Yaowarat area.
Not huge fans of traffic police, Bangkok commuters probably hadn't noticed that all of the city's traffic officers are men. Today, that is set to change. Police Lieutenant General Worasak Nopsittiporn, the deputy metropolitan police chief, revealed details of the new project, saying the program aims to bring a lighter approach to the enforcement of traffic laws by bringing in female traffic police officers. Female officers are believed to be less confrontational with commuters and are expected to make dealing with traffic police a little more pleasant.
The project first opened up the opportunity for female police officers in all branches of the Metropolitan Police Bureau to volunteer for the job.
However, no one offered to join the program. Police Lieutenant General Worasak speculates that lady officers are probably discouraged by the tough conditions of Bangkok streets. Not only are the officers expected to enforce traffic laws by handing out tickets and controlling intersection lights, they are also expected to be out in the sun, manually directing traffic as well.
However, after some persuasion, 18 female riot control police officers volunteered their services. Despite an initial aim to garner at least 30 volunteers for the project, the deputy metropolitan police chief says 18 is a good start.
The female traffic officers will be dressed in the same uniforms as their male counterparts. However, their motorcycle helmets will be white with pink lining as opposed to the normal red lining for local area traffic officers or orange helmets for officers under the central traffic control division.
Translated from www.dailynews.co.th
-- Tan Network 2012-01-23
If you don't look hard enough, you might not notice them. They're dressed like their male counterparts, but are expected to bring a fresh, gentle approach to enforcing traffic laws in a capital city notorious for its unorganized driving and horrendous traffic jams. 18 female traffic police officers are set to hit the streets of Bangkok today, January 23. Their first call of duty is to patrol and monitor traffic in areas congested due to Chinese New Year festivities, especially the Yaowarat area.
Not huge fans of traffic police, Bangkok commuters probably hadn't noticed that all of the city's traffic officers are men. Today, that is set to change. Police Lieutenant General Worasak Nopsittiporn, the deputy metropolitan police chief, revealed details of the new project, saying the program aims to bring a lighter approach to the enforcement of traffic laws by bringing in female traffic police officers. Female officers are believed to be less confrontational with commuters and are expected to make dealing with traffic police a little more pleasant.
The project first opened up the opportunity for female police officers in all branches of the Metropolitan Police Bureau to volunteer for the job.
However, no one offered to join the program. Police Lieutenant General Worasak speculates that lady officers are probably discouraged by the tough conditions of Bangkok streets. Not only are the officers expected to enforce traffic laws by handing out tickets and controlling intersection lights, they are also expected to be out in the sun, manually directing traffic as well.
However, after some persuasion, 18 female riot control police officers volunteered their services. Despite an initial aim to garner at least 30 volunteers for the project, the deputy metropolitan police chief says 18 is a good start.
The female traffic officers will be dressed in the same uniforms as their male counterparts. However, their motorcycle helmets will be white with pink lining as opposed to the normal red lining for local area traffic officers or orange helmets for officers under the central traffic control division.
Translated from www.dailynews.co.th
-- Tan Network 2012-01-23
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thai elephants are being killed for tourist dollars
Edwin Wiek
Special to The Nation
News on elephants in Thailand since the start of this year has been dominated by the brutal killing of wild tuskers in Kaeng Krachan and Kui Buri national parks.
At least six wild elephants have been found dead within three weeks - and this is probably just the tip of the iceberg. Both national parks occupy a very large area, with Kaeng Krachan being Thailand's biggest national park. Combined, the two national parks are home to at least 500 wild elephants.
In one of the first interviews after the discovery of five dead elephants, one government official alleged that these animals were killed to provide elephant meat and sexual organs for consumption at wildlife "bush-meat" restaurants on Phuket, for visiting foreign tourists. This news was extremely shocking to a big part of Thai society, but to date it has not been proven right. In fact, neither the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division (NRECD), or the office of the Phuket governor, have found any evidence that such a place exists. Nor can the official that made the statement give any weight to his claim. It seems like a deliberately made-up claim, for whatever reason, but the real reason for the killing of these elephants could be explained in a much easier way.
The value of young elephants at camps nationwide has soared because not enough babies are being born in captivity to meet the demand. Although we see stories in the news every now and then about the birth of babies at elephant camps, there are just not enough captive-born calves. This gap in demand and supply is reflected in the prices camp owners and businessmen are willing to pay. A two- to four-year-old female, for example, can now fetch a staggering Bt800,000 or Bt900,000.
Baby elephants are being taken out of the jungle in Thailand at any cost. Mothers are being shot and even their nannies and sub-adult males still with the herd, trying to protect the calves. Poachers, who have been interviewed, say it is common to kill up to three elephants to take one baby from the forest. Once a few elephants are killed, the baby elephant stays close to the dead adults while the rest of the herd usually runs for safety. Poachers then have limited time to get the baby out, fearing the return of the herd and/or any witnesses attracted by the sound of gunshots. This explains why some dead elephants have been found with their tusks intact. Removing and selling the tusks would be very lucrative - a small pair would easily fetch Bt100,000 - but it takes too much time.
Groups of poachers like these will receive about Bt300,000 from middlemen for baby elephants at specific places such as Suan Phueng in Ratchaburi and Sai Yok in Kanchanaburi. But this also occurs in the North, in areas such as Tak and Mae Hong Son provinces.
Once the babies have been taken away from the forest, they are moved to "safe houses" in border areas controlled by corrupt politicians, government officials and influential businessmen. Here, the young are "tamed" through week-long torture rituals to break their spirit. In many cases, they are then introduced to a "foster-mother", a captive female elephant. This introduction is particularly important for the future transportation of the elephant out of areas controlled by the criminals.
When transported, baby elephants are often said to be the offspring of the captive (legally owned) older female. The law in Thailand stipulates that any captive-born offspring needs to be registered - within nine years - so, this is a major loophole open to abuse.
Lately, however, gangs have been moving baby elephants in the back of closed, modified pick-up trucks. This is even more daring, and shows they have little fear of being caught, which is a clear sign they are backed up by influential people.
The profit for these gangs is huge, with elephant camps paying up to Bt900,000 for a baby, but the gang only paying the poachers about Bt300,000. Aside from some "costs" such as bribing officials on the way, they can make up to Bt500,000 per elephant.
It has been estimated that baby elephants are transported through Ratchaburi and Kanchanaburi at least twice a week. This suggests an annual turnover of at least 100 elephants, or Bt80-90 million, with a profit of Bt50 million for the smuggling gang.
In the recent past, the Thai government always denied that smuggled elephants were from Thailand, claiming they came from Burma. However, the latest findings in Kaeng Krachan and Kui Buri indicate that this is a problem that also exists in Thailand and that it urgently needs to be taken seriously.
There is no need for denial; action has to be taken and it has to be transparent.
For any tourist visiting an elephant camp and riding these beautiful animals, the latest information has serious implications. People who ignore what is occurring effectively support the killing and torture of wild-born elephants.
For any government official or politician denying the above, I challenge them to visit the elephant camps in Ayutthaya, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Samui, Chiang Mai, Phuket, or anywhere else in the country, and force the owners of all elephants of up to 20 years of age to allow a DNA check on their animals. That would verify whether young elephants really are the offspring of their alleged "mothers".
I strongly believe that over half of all young elephants in tourist camps nationwide are wild-caught. You can prove me wrong by undertaking a long-overdue DNA check. Indeed, I challenge you to verify the status of these glorious animals. This is the only way to reveal the true status of all young elephants and to wipe out this evil trade and the slaughter of a national icon.
Edwin Wiek is secretary-general of the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT). He can be contacted at edwin.wiek@wfft.org. See www.wfft.org.
-- The Nation 2012-01-24
Edwin Wiek
Special to The Nation
News on elephants in Thailand since the start of this year has been dominated by the brutal killing of wild tuskers in Kaeng Krachan and Kui Buri national parks.
At least six wild elephants have been found dead within three weeks - and this is probably just the tip of the iceberg. Both national parks occupy a very large area, with Kaeng Krachan being Thailand's biggest national park. Combined, the two national parks are home to at least 500 wild elephants.
In one of the first interviews after the discovery of five dead elephants, one government official alleged that these animals were killed to provide elephant meat and sexual organs for consumption at wildlife "bush-meat" restaurants on Phuket, for visiting foreign tourists. This news was extremely shocking to a big part of Thai society, but to date it has not been proven right. In fact, neither the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division (NRECD), or the office of the Phuket governor, have found any evidence that such a place exists. Nor can the official that made the statement give any weight to his claim. It seems like a deliberately made-up claim, for whatever reason, but the real reason for the killing of these elephants could be explained in a much easier way.
The value of young elephants at camps nationwide has soared because not enough babies are being born in captivity to meet the demand. Although we see stories in the news every now and then about the birth of babies at elephant camps, there are just not enough captive-born calves. This gap in demand and supply is reflected in the prices camp owners and businessmen are willing to pay. A two- to four-year-old female, for example, can now fetch a staggering Bt800,000 or Bt900,000.
Baby elephants are being taken out of the jungle in Thailand at any cost. Mothers are being shot and even their nannies and sub-adult males still with the herd, trying to protect the calves. Poachers, who have been interviewed, say it is common to kill up to three elephants to take one baby from the forest. Once a few elephants are killed, the baby elephant stays close to the dead adults while the rest of the herd usually runs for safety. Poachers then have limited time to get the baby out, fearing the return of the herd and/or any witnesses attracted by the sound of gunshots. This explains why some dead elephants have been found with their tusks intact. Removing and selling the tusks would be very lucrative - a small pair would easily fetch Bt100,000 - but it takes too much time.
Groups of poachers like these will receive about Bt300,000 from middlemen for baby elephants at specific places such as Suan Phueng in Ratchaburi and Sai Yok in Kanchanaburi. But this also occurs in the North, in areas such as Tak and Mae Hong Son provinces.
Once the babies have been taken away from the forest, they are moved to "safe houses" in border areas controlled by corrupt politicians, government officials and influential businessmen. Here, the young are "tamed" through week-long torture rituals to break their spirit. In many cases, they are then introduced to a "foster-mother", a captive female elephant. This introduction is particularly important for the future transportation of the elephant out of areas controlled by the criminals.
When transported, baby elephants are often said to be the offspring of the captive (legally owned) older female. The law in Thailand stipulates that any captive-born offspring needs to be registered - within nine years - so, this is a major loophole open to abuse.
Lately, however, gangs have been moving baby elephants in the back of closed, modified pick-up trucks. This is even more daring, and shows they have little fear of being caught, which is a clear sign they are backed up by influential people.
The profit for these gangs is huge, with elephant camps paying up to Bt900,000 for a baby, but the gang only paying the poachers about Bt300,000. Aside from some "costs" such as bribing officials on the way, they can make up to Bt500,000 per elephant.
It has been estimated that baby elephants are transported through Ratchaburi and Kanchanaburi at least twice a week. This suggests an annual turnover of at least 100 elephants, or Bt80-90 million, with a profit of Bt50 million for the smuggling gang.
In the recent past, the Thai government always denied that smuggled elephants were from Thailand, claiming they came from Burma. However, the latest findings in Kaeng Krachan and Kui Buri indicate that this is a problem that also exists in Thailand and that it urgently needs to be taken seriously.
There is no need for denial; action has to be taken and it has to be transparent.
For any tourist visiting an elephant camp and riding these beautiful animals, the latest information has serious implications. People who ignore what is occurring effectively support the killing and torture of wild-born elephants.
For any government official or politician denying the above, I challenge them to visit the elephant camps in Ayutthaya, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Samui, Chiang Mai, Phuket, or anywhere else in the country, and force the owners of all elephants of up to 20 years of age to allow a DNA check on their animals. That would verify whether young elephants really are the offspring of their alleged "mothers".
I strongly believe that over half of all young elephants in tourist camps nationwide are wild-caught. You can prove me wrong by undertaking a long-overdue DNA check. Indeed, I challenge you to verify the status of these glorious animals. This is the only way to reveal the true status of all young elephants and to wipe out this evil trade and the slaughter of a national icon.
Edwin Wiek is secretary-general of the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT). He can be contacted at edwin.wiek@wfft.org. See www.wfft.org.
-- The Nation 2012-01-24
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted 2012-01-24 14:59:38
Topless Models and Gambling Den Owner Turn Themselves in to Police
BANGKOK -- A gambling den owner and topless models have given themselves up to the police.
The models admit to taking off their clothes in public. Meanwhile, the gambling den owner confessed to opening a permanent gambling den.
Yesterday, at the Sai Mai police station, two topless models and a gambling den owner, Tanate Pradittane or Tee turned themselves to the Deputy Metropolitan Police Bureau Commander Police Major General Sarote Promjareon.
Sarote said the two models who appeared in the picture admitted that they were the people in the clip.
They also confessed that they were hired to perform model walks at Wongsakorn market where the gambling den was located.
Then, they agreed to take off their clothes in order to receive more money from the gamblers.
Unfortunately, the naked clip was released to the public.
Each of the naked models were fined 500 baht for performing obscene acts in public before they were released.
In the meantime, the gambling den owner confessed that the building was opened as a temporary gambling den, and the permanent gambling den is under construction.
Therefore, he organized the gambling party and hired the two models to perform.
However, he aborted the plan after the news was released.
The police charged two gamblers, Narong or Dum and Wiwat or Ake.
All three suspects will be brought to the Min Buri provincial court tomorrow.
-- Tan Network 2012-01-24
BANGKOK -- A gambling den owner and topless models have given themselves up to the police.
The models admit to taking off their clothes in public. Meanwhile, the gambling den owner confessed to opening a permanent gambling den.
Yesterday, at the Sai Mai police station, two topless models and a gambling den owner, Tanate Pradittane or Tee turned themselves to the Deputy Metropolitan Police Bureau Commander Police Major General Sarote Promjareon.
Sarote said the two models who appeared in the picture admitted that they were the people in the clip.
They also confessed that they were hired to perform model walks at Wongsakorn market where the gambling den was located.
Then, they agreed to take off their clothes in order to receive more money from the gamblers.
Unfortunately, the naked clip was released to the public.
Each of the naked models were fined 500 baht for performing obscene acts in public before they were released.
In the meantime, the gambling den owner confessed that the building was opened as a temporary gambling den, and the permanent gambling den is under construction.
Therefore, he organized the gambling party and hired the two models to perform.
However, he aborted the plan after the news was released.
The police charged two gamblers, Narong or Dum and Wiwat or Ake.
All three suspects will be brought to the Min Buri provincial court tomorrow.
-- Tan Network 2012-01-24
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Army denies, admits fire at weapons storage site
The Nation
NAKHON SAWAN: -- A large fire broke out yesterday at an Army weapons depot in Nakhon Sawan province. After initially denying the incident, Army officials later admitted there had been a fire but said it caused no explosions or casualties.
The incident was first reported before noon via HAM and CB radio frequencies, with operators calling for donations of blood for people wounded in an explosion. The depot, supervised by the Army’s Ordnance Directorate, later issued a statement admitting that there had been a fire caused by phosphorus left in old wooden boxes.
Two Army fire engines were dispatched from a nearby unit reportedly put out the fire. Depot officials contacted by reporters said there were no injuries and refused to give any other details.
At 3.30 pm, Army spokesman Colonel Sansern Kaewkamnerd said the fire started when phosphorous in a number of old wooden boxes used to store weaponry and munitions, and which had been prepped for destruction, combusted after being exposed to direct sunlight when the boxes were scattered outdoors.
About 100 boxes were destroyed or damaged by the fire, and a building damaged. Sansern repeated a statement that there were no injuries and that no weapons were destroyed or damaged. "The Army commander has been informed of the incident and has issued no special order regarding the matter," he added.
Prior to the fire, officials conducted a periodic check of weapons' shelf lives. Those items whose service period had expired were extracted from the boxes, which were scattered outside in preparation for demolition, the spokesman said.
-- The Nation 2012-01-26
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Nation
NAKHON SAWAN: -- A large fire broke out yesterday at an Army weapons depot in Nakhon Sawan province. After initially denying the incident, Army officials later admitted there had been a fire but said it caused no explosions or casualties.
The incident was first reported before noon via HAM and CB radio frequencies, with operators calling for donations of blood for people wounded in an explosion. The depot, supervised by the Army’s Ordnance Directorate, later issued a statement admitting that there had been a fire caused by phosphorus left in old wooden boxes.
Two Army fire engines were dispatched from a nearby unit reportedly put out the fire. Depot officials contacted by reporters said there were no injuries and refused to give any other details.
At 3.30 pm, Army spokesman Colonel Sansern Kaewkamnerd said the fire started when phosphorous in a number of old wooden boxes used to store weaponry and munitions, and which had been prepped for destruction, combusted after being exposed to direct sunlight when the boxes were scattered outdoors.
About 100 boxes were destroyed or damaged by the fire, and a building damaged. Sansern repeated a statement that there were no injuries and that no weapons were destroyed or damaged. "The Army commander has been informed of the incident and has issued no special order regarding the matter," he added.
Prior to the fire, officials conducted a periodic check of weapons' shelf lives. Those items whose service period had expired were extracted from the boxes, which were scattered outside in preparation for demolition, the spokesman said.
-- The Nation 2012-01-26
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Police arrest drug suspect, alleged Army accomplice
The Nation
PATHUM THANI: -- Police yesterday arrested the alleged owner of a large haul of illegal drugs found last week in a rented Bangkok home, along with an Army major who allegedly provided the drug suspect with a military permit allowing him to drive through police checkpoints.
Niphon Kanchart, 54, was arrested yesterday morning at a housing estate in Pathum Thani province with Bt303,500 in cash. He admitted to owning or transporting the drugs - 71 kg of crystal methamphetamine, or "ice", and 3.8 million amphetamine tablets worth around Bt1 billion in total - which were found at a home in eastern Bangkok that he rented from an actress.
With the military's cooperation, police identified another suspect, Major Piyanat Jatejamras, an Army engineer attached to the Third Army Area in the North, who they said had issued military permits allowing Niphon to drive through police checkpoints within the capital and along routes between Bangkok and the North.
The case began when police attending the scene of a road accident, in which a Toyota sedan crashed into a wall on an eastbound expressway section, found a large quantity of drugs inside the car. Searching the sedan, police found a number of documents and a notebook computer leading to Niphon.
Among the documents were permits issued to Niphon by the Internal Security Operations Command, which offered a non-military course attended by him. Niphon later got to know Piyanat and the pair had since worked for drug agents in the North, police said. In a statement given to police, Niphon said he was paid Bt24 million for transporting the drugs to Bangkok, where they would be picked up by a man known only as Chen.
Police quoted Niphon as saying he had stopped acting as a drug courier in 2006, then resumed the activity in late 2010, when he worked together with the officer. Niphon said he normally received Bt0.50 for each tablet and Bt5,000 for every kg of "ice" delivered.
Army spokesman Colonel Sansern Kaewkamnerd said police would soon detain the major after the Army gave initial approval for a joint investigation, and finally for detention under police custody.
He said Lt-General Pitiphak Pomnark, a commander under ISOC, only signed approval for the permit to be issued to Niphon for attending a course, and had nothing to do with him dealing drugs.
Deputy Prime Minister Chalerm Yoobamrung said a crackdown would soon be carried out against government officials involved in drug dealing or who utilise fake permits or identity cards.
-- The Nation 2012-01-26
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Nation
PATHUM THANI: -- Police yesterday arrested the alleged owner of a large haul of illegal drugs found last week in a rented Bangkok home, along with an Army major who allegedly provided the drug suspect with a military permit allowing him to drive through police checkpoints.
Niphon Kanchart, 54, was arrested yesterday morning at a housing estate in Pathum Thani province with Bt303,500 in cash. He admitted to owning or transporting the drugs - 71 kg of crystal methamphetamine, or "ice", and 3.8 million amphetamine tablets worth around Bt1 billion in total - which were found at a home in eastern Bangkok that he rented from an actress.
With the military's cooperation, police identified another suspect, Major Piyanat Jatejamras, an Army engineer attached to the Third Army Area in the North, who they said had issued military permits allowing Niphon to drive through police checkpoints within the capital and along routes between Bangkok and the North.
The case began when police attending the scene of a road accident, in which a Toyota sedan crashed into a wall on an eastbound expressway section, found a large quantity of drugs inside the car. Searching the sedan, police found a number of documents and a notebook computer leading to Niphon.
Among the documents were permits issued to Niphon by the Internal Security Operations Command, which offered a non-military course attended by him. Niphon later got to know Piyanat and the pair had since worked for drug agents in the North, police said. In a statement given to police, Niphon said he was paid Bt24 million for transporting the drugs to Bangkok, where they would be picked up by a man known only as Chen.
Police quoted Niphon as saying he had stopped acting as a drug courier in 2006, then resumed the activity in late 2010, when he worked together with the officer. Niphon said he normally received Bt0.50 for each tablet and Bt5,000 for every kg of "ice" delivered.
Army spokesman Colonel Sansern Kaewkamnerd said police would soon detain the major after the Army gave initial approval for a joint investigation, and finally for detention under police custody.
He said Lt-General Pitiphak Pomnark, a commander under ISOC, only signed approval for the permit to be issued to Niphon for attending a course, and had nothing to do with him dealing drugs.
Deputy Prime Minister Chalerm Yoobamrung said a crackdown would soon be carried out against government officials involved in drug dealing or who utilise fake permits or identity cards.
-- The Nation 2012-01-26
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted 2012-01-26 06:27:55
Army dismisses reports of Thai-Cambodian military clash
BANGKOK, Jan 26 – The Royal Thai Army on Wednesday dismissed reports of a renewed clash between Thai and Cambodian soldiers at Ta Kwai Temple, but conceded that one soldier was wounded in a gunshot accident.
Thai army spokesman Col Sansern Kaewkamnerd stood firm that there was no military clash at the Surin province bordering Cambodia.
Col Sansern said the Second Army Region Command reported that the wounded soldier was Cpl Veerawat Pairoh, accidentally shot in the leg while on patrol along the border as another soldier fell and accidentally shot him with his 9mm pistol. The wounded man was sent to hospital.
The army spokesman said there was no reaction from Cambodian soldiers following the accident.
Second Army Region commander Lt-Gen Thawatchai Samutsakorn who oversees the border area earlier said that no clash between troops of the two neighbours had occurred.
Ties between Thailand and Cambodia have been strained with sporadic clashes between their troops since the historic Preah Vihear temple was granted UN World Heritage status in July 2008.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in 1962 that the temple belonged to Cambodia, but a 4.6 square kilometre (1.8 square mile) surrounding area remains in dispute as both countries claim ownership of the tract.
The court, last July ordered Thailand and Cambodia to withdraw their troops from the newly-defined demilitarised zone in a disputed portion of their border around the temple while urging both countries to work with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to agree to allow the regional bloc's observers to enter the disputed zone.
The two neighbours agreed to follow the court’s order and use the General Border Committee mechanism to consider details in implementing it. (MCOT online news)
-- TNA 2012-01-26
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BANGKOK, Jan 26 – The Royal Thai Army on Wednesday dismissed reports of a renewed clash between Thai and Cambodian soldiers at Ta Kwai Temple, but conceded that one soldier was wounded in a gunshot accident.
Thai army spokesman Col Sansern Kaewkamnerd stood firm that there was no military clash at the Surin province bordering Cambodia.
Col Sansern said the Second Army Region Command reported that the wounded soldier was Cpl Veerawat Pairoh, accidentally shot in the leg while on patrol along the border as another soldier fell and accidentally shot him with his 9mm pistol. The wounded man was sent to hospital.
The army spokesman said there was no reaction from Cambodian soldiers following the accident.
Second Army Region commander Lt-Gen Thawatchai Samutsakorn who oversees the border area earlier said that no clash between troops of the two neighbours had occurred.
Ties between Thailand and Cambodia have been strained with sporadic clashes between their troops since the historic Preah Vihear temple was granted UN World Heritage status in July 2008.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in 1962 that the temple belonged to Cambodia, but a 4.6 square kilometre (1.8 square mile) surrounding area remains in dispute as both countries claim ownership of the tract.
The court, last July ordered Thailand and Cambodia to withdraw their troops from the newly-defined demilitarised zone in a disputed portion of their border around the temple while urging both countries to work with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to agree to allow the regional bloc's observers to enter the disputed zone.
The two neighbours agreed to follow the court’s order and use the General Border Committee mechanism to consider details in implementing it. (MCOT online news)
-- TNA 2012-01-26
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FATAL ACCIDENT
Suphan Buri fireworks disaster affects 500
The Nation
SUPHAN BURI: -- The powerful fireworks explosion during the Chinese New Year celebration at Suphan Buri's Dragon Park on Tuesday night blasted all structures within four kilometres and turned the lives of more than 500 people upside down.
"All the houses in my neighbourhood are just rubble now," a resident said yesterday.
The fireworks were fired from a community close to Dragon Park, where more than 200 houses were damaged.
The grand public festival - broadcast live on nationwide TV - went terribly wrong when some fireworks went off, leaving four people dead and at least 74 injured.
The disaster area near Dragon Park and the city pillar shrine has been sealed off. A temporary shelter has been set up at Phra Si Rattana Maha That Temple, which was also hit, to accommodate the homeless victims.
"Police are investigating the cause of the explosion," Suphan Buri Governor Somsak Phureesisak said.
The men working on the fireworks show or the equipment could be responsible for the accident, he said.
Three fireworks workers were killed at the scene while a woman, Lamyong Pansakul, 52, succumbed to her injuries at a hospital.
Somsak said the Foundation of Suphan Buri's City Pillar Shrine has promised to provide full assistance to all victims.
Chao Phraya Yommaraj Hospital tended to 60 injured, of whom 44 have been discharged. Only one, a fireman named Thanit Klinkate, remained in intensive care.
At Suppamit Hospital, 14 victims were treated and nine of them were allowed to go home.
Banharn Silapa-archa, chief adviser of the Chart Thai Pattana Party, who founded Dragon Park, yesterday visited the patients at Suppamit Hospital and offered them Bt10,000 each.
Banharn, Tourism Minister Chumpol Silapa-archa and Chinese Ambassador Guan Mu were guests of honour at Dragon Park.
A local woman said she was watching TV at home when part of the wall suddenly collapsed on her and thick fumes began spreading all over.
"I couldn't see anything at all. So I made a real struggle to get out from under the wall and started running for my life," she said.
The scope of the devastation was massive. Some vehicles were just burnt shells, and their windshields were completely shattered into small pieces.
Somsak said that although the Chinese New Year celebrations at Dragon Park would continue till Sunday, there would be no more pyrotechnics.
"In fact, the organising committee planned more firework displays but we have already confiscated all the prepared fireworks," he said.
A source said 500-600 fireworks were seized and the explosive ordnance disposal team was now removing their fuses.
Interior Minister Yongyuth Wichaidit said he received a report that the fireworks might have been etonated because the pipes used to shoot them were not set at the right angle.
He said he would instruct all provincial governments to be more careful in organising activities.
"But I'm not going to ban the use of fireworks because they add colour to celebrations," he said.
Major Songphon Iambonrit, formerly with the Army's Ordnance Department, also suspected that either defective launch cylinders or an inappropriate angle triggered the accident.
-- The Nation 2012-01-26
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Suphan Buri fireworks disaster affects 500
The Nation
SUPHAN BURI: -- The powerful fireworks explosion during the Chinese New Year celebration at Suphan Buri's Dragon Park on Tuesday night blasted all structures within four kilometres and turned the lives of more than 500 people upside down.
"All the houses in my neighbourhood are just rubble now," a resident said yesterday.
The fireworks were fired from a community close to Dragon Park, where more than 200 houses were damaged.
The grand public festival - broadcast live on nationwide TV - went terribly wrong when some fireworks went off, leaving four people dead and at least 74 injured.
The disaster area near Dragon Park and the city pillar shrine has been sealed off. A temporary shelter has been set up at Phra Si Rattana Maha That Temple, which was also hit, to accommodate the homeless victims.
"Police are investigating the cause of the explosion," Suphan Buri Governor Somsak Phureesisak said.
The men working on the fireworks show or the equipment could be responsible for the accident, he said.
Three fireworks workers were killed at the scene while a woman, Lamyong Pansakul, 52, succumbed to her injuries at a hospital.
Somsak said the Foundation of Suphan Buri's City Pillar Shrine has promised to provide full assistance to all victims.
Chao Phraya Yommaraj Hospital tended to 60 injured, of whom 44 have been discharged. Only one, a fireman named Thanit Klinkate, remained in intensive care.
At Suppamit Hospital, 14 victims were treated and nine of them were allowed to go home.
Banharn Silapa-archa, chief adviser of the Chart Thai Pattana Party, who founded Dragon Park, yesterday visited the patients at Suppamit Hospital and offered them Bt10,000 each.
Banharn, Tourism Minister Chumpol Silapa-archa and Chinese Ambassador Guan Mu were guests of honour at Dragon Park.
A local woman said she was watching TV at home when part of the wall suddenly collapsed on her and thick fumes began spreading all over.
"I couldn't see anything at all. So I made a real struggle to get out from under the wall and started running for my life," she said.
The scope of the devastation was massive. Some vehicles were just burnt shells, and their windshields were completely shattered into small pieces.
Somsak said that although the Chinese New Year celebrations at Dragon Park would continue till Sunday, there would be no more pyrotechnics.
"In fact, the organising committee planned more firework displays but we have already confiscated all the prepared fireworks," he said.
A source said 500-600 fireworks were seized and the explosive ordnance disposal team was now removing their fuses.
Interior Minister Yongyuth Wichaidit said he received a report that the fireworks might have been etonated because the pipes used to shoot them were not set at the right angle.
He said he would instruct all provincial governments to be more careful in organising activities.
"But I'm not going to ban the use of fireworks because they add colour to celebrations," he said.
Major Songphon Iambonrit, formerly with the Army's Ordnance Department, also suspected that either defective launch cylinders or an inappropriate angle triggered the accident.
-- The Nation 2012-01-26
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Man shot, dumped, left for dead - but survives in Phuket
Phuket Gazette –
The entrance to the emergency room at Vachira Phuket Hospital, the island’s busiest medical facility.
PHUKET: A young Cambodian man who was shot in the chest and claims to have been tossed into the ocean afterwards, is being treated at Vachira Phuket Hospital.
Doctors are unable to identify him or contact family members due to a language barrier.
A source visiting the hospital yesterday told the Phuket Gazette that the the man was a 23-year-old fisherman, and was shot aboard a fishing trawler before being thrown into the sea, where he was left to die.
However, staff at the hospital have been unable to confirm the story.
Methavee Maneesri, who works in the hospital’s international division, looked into the man’s case at the Gazette’s request.
All that is known about the man is that he is 23 years old and has a bullet lodged in his chest, she said.
“We think he was shot by someone he knew during a drinking session,” Ms Maneesri said.
As a government hospital, the facility divides foreign patients into four classes: tourists, registered guest workers with insurance, retirees and illegal aliens, she explained.
We are duty-bound to treat critically-ill people in all four groups, she said, addressing the concern that the man had been denied treatment due to his lack of identification or inability to pay.
We gave the man a CT scan to pinpoint the location of the bullet in his lungs and drained blood from his pleural cavity because he was suffering from hemothorax, she said.
The treatment was effective and he is now able to breathe and eat on his own, but he has trouble speaking and none of the staff at the hospital understand Khmer, she explained
As for who shot the man and other details leading up to his arrival at the hospital, she said that was a matter for the police.
Ms Methawee described the case as “very normal”.
“We get cases like this every day here,” she said.
Now that the man has been treated, staff at the hospital hope family members or friends will arrive to assist him.
As for further surgery to remove the bullet still lodged in his lung, she said doctors had yet to make a decision.
Sometimes such operations are too risky, so it is safer just to let the bullet remain in place and hope the wound heals around it, said Ms Methawee.
Source: http://www.phuketgaz...ticle12125.html
-- Phuket Gazette 2012-01-26
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Phuket Gazette –
The entrance to the emergency room at Vachira Phuket Hospital, the island’s busiest medical facility.
PHUKET: A young Cambodian man who was shot in the chest and claims to have been tossed into the ocean afterwards, is being treated at Vachira Phuket Hospital.
Doctors are unable to identify him or contact family members due to a language barrier.
A source visiting the hospital yesterday told the Phuket Gazette that the the man was a 23-year-old fisherman, and was shot aboard a fishing trawler before being thrown into the sea, where he was left to die.
However, staff at the hospital have been unable to confirm the story.
Methavee Maneesri, who works in the hospital’s international division, looked into the man’s case at the Gazette’s request.
All that is known about the man is that he is 23 years old and has a bullet lodged in his chest, she said.
“We think he was shot by someone he knew during a drinking session,” Ms Maneesri said.
As a government hospital, the facility divides foreign patients into four classes: tourists, registered guest workers with insurance, retirees and illegal aliens, she explained.
We are duty-bound to treat critically-ill people in all four groups, she said, addressing the concern that the man had been denied treatment due to his lack of identification or inability to pay.
We gave the man a CT scan to pinpoint the location of the bullet in his lungs and drained blood from his pleural cavity because he was suffering from hemothorax, she said.
The treatment was effective and he is now able to breathe and eat on his own, but he has trouble speaking and none of the staff at the hospital understand Khmer, she explained
As for who shot the man and other details leading up to his arrival at the hospital, she said that was a matter for the police.
Ms Methawee described the case as “very normal”.
“We get cases like this every day here,” she said.
Now that the man has been treated, staff at the hospital hope family members or friends will arrive to assist him.
As for further surgery to remove the bullet still lodged in his lung, she said doctors had yet to make a decision.
Sometimes such operations are too risky, so it is safer just to let the bullet remain in place and hope the wound heals around it, said Ms Methawee.
Source: http://www.phuketgaz...ticle12125.html
-- Phuket Gazette 2012-01-26
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chuwit fingers 22 gambling dens - and corrupt cops - in police meeting
The Nation
BANGKOK: -- Metropolitan Police Commissioner LtGeneral Winai Thongsong yesterday ordered police to investigate the 22 gambling dens or footballbetting franchises that outspoken MP Chuwit Kamolvisit claimed had been operating in Bangkok City with police protection.
Winai also thanked Chuwit for acting as the mirror for police, though he wished Chuwit would talk to him personally so he got clear information to make arrests, and vowed to punish the deninvolving police officers. He said he had ordered his deputies and Metropolitan Police Division 19 chiefs to check on their jurisdiction areas if there were gambling dens and punish any involved cops.
Meanwhile, national police chief Pol General Priewpan Damapong assigned Police InspectorGeneral Pol General Sathaporn Laothong to investigate the allegations about franchise dens and allegations that police generals with initial "Jor" and "Or" backed the dens.
Priewpan also assigned Winai and acting provincial police region 1 chief Khamronwit Thupkrachang to inspect the Greater Bangkok gambling dens and report back to him before Monday.
Winai also had Metropolitan Police Division 1 Commander Police Major General Wichai Sangprapai gather information on the gambling dens from Chuwit at Parliament yesterday. After giving the information to Wichai, Chuwit said he was confident in Priewpan who he hoped would get stricter. Because he was also confident in Wichai, he had given him all the evidence and was ready to offer additional information. Wichai, however, declined to comment whether the Sai Mai superintendent would be transferred over an alleged gambling den that used topless women to entertain gamblers.
Metropolitan Police deputy commander LtGeneral Saroj Phromcharoen, who oversees crime suppression, said the city police would look into Chuwit's claim about the 22 franchise dens as well as the topless gambling den. Saroj himself would also check on the Bang Kapi and Hau Mark areas. Regarding Chuwit's claim that a police general with initials "Jor" and "Or" backed the franchise dens, he said the police were ready to probe.
On Wednesday, Chuwit told a Parliament meeting about the 22 gambling den franchises controlled,he said,by two major networks. The "Sor Sommai" network oversaw eight dens (Bang Kapi Market; Happy Land 1; Lat Phrao 71; Chokchai 4; Talad Number 1 Bang Na; Talad Tai Rangsit Market; Talad Si Mum Muang Market; and Ramkhamhaeng 24). The "Hia Teu Mangkorn Thong" network oversaw 14 gambling dens (Minburi's Lion Building in Soi Lalaisap; Khubon's 8th kilometre marker; Khubon Soi 1; Romklao Housing Estate; near Beung Kum District Office; Soi Paholyothin 52; Payak Housing Estate in Ramkhamhaeng; Soi Lat Phrao 112; Lady Zone Pub in Chokchai 4 Soi 71; Khlong Toei; a place called Phoenix at Navankhon; Bang Phli; Wat Phrayakrai police station's jurisdiction; and a market opposite Major Cineplex Nonthaburi.
Chuwit also said eight other major dens such as Tao Poon, Loy Fa and Bang Na continued to operate and paid Bt2 million a day for police protection, while the franchise dens paid crooked police up to Bt1 million a day.
-- The Nation 2012-01-27
The Nation
BANGKOK: -- Metropolitan Police Commissioner LtGeneral Winai Thongsong yesterday ordered police to investigate the 22 gambling dens or footballbetting franchises that outspoken MP Chuwit Kamolvisit claimed had been operating in Bangkok City with police protection.
Winai also thanked Chuwit for acting as the mirror for police, though he wished Chuwit would talk to him personally so he got clear information to make arrests, and vowed to punish the deninvolving police officers. He said he had ordered his deputies and Metropolitan Police Division 19 chiefs to check on their jurisdiction areas if there were gambling dens and punish any involved cops.
Meanwhile, national police chief Pol General Priewpan Damapong assigned Police InspectorGeneral Pol General Sathaporn Laothong to investigate the allegations about franchise dens and allegations that police generals with initial "Jor" and "Or" backed the dens.
Priewpan also assigned Winai and acting provincial police region 1 chief Khamronwit Thupkrachang to inspect the Greater Bangkok gambling dens and report back to him before Monday.
Winai also had Metropolitan Police Division 1 Commander Police Major General Wichai Sangprapai gather information on the gambling dens from Chuwit at Parliament yesterday. After giving the information to Wichai, Chuwit said he was confident in Priewpan who he hoped would get stricter. Because he was also confident in Wichai, he had given him all the evidence and was ready to offer additional information. Wichai, however, declined to comment whether the Sai Mai superintendent would be transferred over an alleged gambling den that used topless women to entertain gamblers.
Metropolitan Police deputy commander LtGeneral Saroj Phromcharoen, who oversees crime suppression, said the city police would look into Chuwit's claim about the 22 franchise dens as well as the topless gambling den. Saroj himself would also check on the Bang Kapi and Hau Mark areas. Regarding Chuwit's claim that a police general with initials "Jor" and "Or" backed the franchise dens, he said the police were ready to probe.
On Wednesday, Chuwit told a Parliament meeting about the 22 gambling den franchises controlled,he said,by two major networks. The "Sor Sommai" network oversaw eight dens (Bang Kapi Market; Happy Land 1; Lat Phrao 71; Chokchai 4; Talad Number 1 Bang Na; Talad Tai Rangsit Market; Talad Si Mum Muang Market; and Ramkhamhaeng 24). The "Hia Teu Mangkorn Thong" network oversaw 14 gambling dens (Minburi's Lion Building in Soi Lalaisap; Khubon's 8th kilometre marker; Khubon Soi 1; Romklao Housing Estate; near Beung Kum District Office; Soi Paholyothin 52; Payak Housing Estate in Ramkhamhaeng; Soi Lat Phrao 112; Lady Zone Pub in Chokchai 4 Soi 71; Khlong Toei; a place called Phoenix at Navankhon; Bang Phli; Wat Phrayakrai police station's jurisdiction; and a market opposite Major Cineplex Nonthaburi.
Chuwit also said eight other major dens such as Tao Poon, Loy Fa and Bang Na continued to operate and paid Bt2 million a day for police protection, while the franchise dens paid crooked police up to Bt1 million a day.
-- The Nation 2012-01-27
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Posted 2012-01-26 14:55:10
Disgruntled Farmer Strips in Front of Government House
BANGKOK: -- A 40-year-old tapioca farmer took drastic measures in trying to be heard by government officials. Her name is Patcharida Keeratinoppadol and she is a tapioca farmer from Nakorn Ratchasrima Province. Yesterday, the woman resorted to taking off her clothes in front of Government House in protest of Cabinet's recent approval of a tapioca pledging program.
Patcharida came to the Government House with the goal of submitting a protest letter against the government's tapioca pledging program.
At its retreat in Chiang Mai Province, the Yingluck administration approved the 10 million ton program with a budget of 33 billion baht. Officials will offer compensation of 2.75 baht per kilogram to tapioca farmers between February 1 til May 31, 2012.
Patcharida said the program will prompt buyers to offer even cheaper prices in order to pressure farmers into entering the program.
However, the disgruntled farmer refused to submit her protest letter to officials at Government House. Instead, she stripped out of her clothes, revealing black lace lingerie, and demanded to speak to reporters. After handing to her letter to the press, she explained her reasons for protesting the pledging program before putting her clothes back on.
Translated from www.dailynews.co.th
-- Tan Network 2012-01-26
BANGKOK: -- A 40-year-old tapioca farmer took drastic measures in trying to be heard by government officials. Her name is Patcharida Keeratinoppadol and she is a tapioca farmer from Nakorn Ratchasrima Province. Yesterday, the woman resorted to taking off her clothes in front of Government House in protest of Cabinet's recent approval of a tapioca pledging program.
Patcharida came to the Government House with the goal of submitting a protest letter against the government's tapioca pledging program.
At its retreat in Chiang Mai Province, the Yingluck administration approved the 10 million ton program with a budget of 33 billion baht. Officials will offer compensation of 2.75 baht per kilogram to tapioca farmers between February 1 til May 31, 2012.
Patcharida said the program will prompt buyers to offer even cheaper prices in order to pressure farmers into entering the program.
However, the disgruntled farmer refused to submit her protest letter to officials at Government House. Instead, she stripped out of her clothes, revealing black lace lingerie, and demanded to speak to reporters. After handing to her letter to the press, she explained her reasons for protesting the pledging program before putting her clothes back on.
Translated from www.dailynews.co.th
-- Tan Network 2012-01-26
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Van plunges into 5-metre-deep ditch
The Nation
SUPHAN BURI: -- A PUBLIC-TRANSPORT van plunged into a roadside ditch in Suphan Buri yesterday, killing four and injuring 16 other passengers.
The casualties included a nine-month-old baby girl and a 10-year-old boy.
The van, which services passengers between Bangkok and Suphan Buri, crashed into the ditch on the Uthong-Dan Chang Road.
Driver Methee Wongthai, 39, said he was about to change lanes when a pickup suddenly sped up and slammed into his vehicle.
"Then the van fell into a 5-metre-deep ditch," he said.
Police said they would gather evidence and speak to more witnesses before wrapping up the case.
-- The Nation 2012-01-28
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Korat Resident Believes the Naga Lives in His Pool
NAKHORN RATCHASIMA: -- In the Pratai District of Nakorn Ratchasima Province, 56 year old Somdee Kangkaranok believes that the mystical Naga snake lives in his new swamp. He claims that on Jan 23, he hired workers to dig an eight meter deep pool on his plantation so he could store water for the crops. The pool was to be 20 meters long and 10 meters wide. As workers started digging, Somdee claims to have gotten a strange eerie feeling. That night, he dreamt that a giant leech was attacking him and he was surrounded in blood.
It took three days for the workers to finish digging the pool as they kept reporting trouble with the equipment. After they were done, one worker pointed out a long snack-like impression in the dirt on the sides of the pool. The impression was around 80 centimeters wide and 18 meters long.
Somdee came to the conclusion that the impression was caused by the mystic Naga, a giant snack-like creature in ancient Thai folklore. He believes that the Naga will bring he and his family good luck and massive fortune. Many locals from nearby areas have flocked to the sight. Some claim to see “lucky” numbers on the Naga impression.
Translated from www.dailynews.co.th
-- Tan Network 2012-01-31
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Nation
SUPHAN BURI: -- A PUBLIC-TRANSPORT van plunged into a roadside ditch in Suphan Buri yesterday, killing four and injuring 16 other passengers.
The casualties included a nine-month-old baby girl and a 10-year-old boy.
The van, which services passengers between Bangkok and Suphan Buri, crashed into the ditch on the Uthong-Dan Chang Road.
Driver Methee Wongthai, 39, said he was about to change lanes when a pickup suddenly sped up and slammed into his vehicle.
"Then the van fell into a 5-metre-deep ditch," he said.
Police said they would gather evidence and speak to more witnesses before wrapping up the case.
-- The Nation 2012-01-28
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Korat Resident Believes the Naga Lives in His Pool
NAKHORN RATCHASIMA: -- In the Pratai District of Nakorn Ratchasima Province, 56 year old Somdee Kangkaranok believes that the mystical Naga snake lives in his new swamp. He claims that on Jan 23, he hired workers to dig an eight meter deep pool on his plantation so he could store water for the crops. The pool was to be 20 meters long and 10 meters wide. As workers started digging, Somdee claims to have gotten a strange eerie feeling. That night, he dreamt that a giant leech was attacking him and he was surrounded in blood.
It took three days for the workers to finish digging the pool as they kept reporting trouble with the equipment. After they were done, one worker pointed out a long snack-like impression in the dirt on the sides of the pool. The impression was around 80 centimeters wide and 18 meters long.
Somdee came to the conclusion that the impression was caused by the mystic Naga, a giant snack-like creature in ancient Thai folklore. He believes that the Naga will bring he and his family good luck and massive fortune. Many locals from nearby areas have flocked to the sight. Some claim to see “lucky” numbers on the Naga impression.
Translated from www.dailynews.co.th
-- Tan Network 2012-01-31
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
