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  • Teasure-hunting game Jagat sparks public distirbance in Thailand

    Patrol and Special Operations Division police are monitoring players of the treasure-hunting game, Jagat, after reports of community disturbances caused by players searching for virtual coins to earn real-life cash. Jagat is gaining popularity, particularly in Thailand and Indonesia. The game was developed by Jagat Tech, founded by Barry Beagen and Loy Xing Zhe. The …

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    Teasure-hunting game Jagat sparks public distirbance in Thailand
    Teasure-hunting game Jagat sparks public distirbance in ThailandLegacy

    Patrol and Special Operations Division police are monitoring players of the treasure-hunting game, Jagat, after reports of community disturbances caused by players searching for virtual coins to earn real-life cash.

    Jagat is gaining popularity, particularly in Thailand and Indonesia. The game was developed by Jagat Tech, founded by Barry Beagen and Loy Xing Zhe.

    The game operates on a model similar to Pokémon Go, but this game encourages players to search for virtual coins hidden in various locations, which can then be exchanged for real money. Jagat game attracted over 10 million users across the world and recently gained significant traction among Thai players.

    In Thailand, virtual coins are reportedly hidden in Bangkok, Pattaya, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai. Players must follow the map provided in the game’s app to locate the coins and claim rewards.

    The value of the coins ranges from 500 to 200,000 baht, depending on the difficulty of finding them. After locating a coin, players must input their codes into the game app to receive the money reward, which is transferred directly to their accounts.

    To assist in finding particularly elusive coins, players can purchase in-game items that provide clues about their locations.

    Jagat app
    Photo via Google Play Store

    These coins are often hidden in unusual or challenging spots, such as behind drainage lids, in narrow spaces between buildings, or even on private property. This has occasionally led players to trespass on private property in their quest for coins.

    Thai search for Jagat coins disturbing community
    Photo via TikTok/ aumim_k and adamy_matt

    According to a report by Beartai, some players in Indonesia damaged public infrastructure, such as footpaths, in their attempts to retrieve the coins.

    Jagat game players annoy people in Thailand
    Photo via TikTok/ tong_19988

    Similar issues have arisen in Thailand, where residents filed numerous complaints with police about strangers entering their homes without permission and causing disturbances, particularly at night.

    In response, Patrol and Special Operations Division police have issued warnings to Jagat players, urging them to avoid disruptive behaviour. Offenders could face the following charges:

    • Section 362 of the Criminal Law: Trespassing and disturbing another person’s property, punishable by imprisonment of up to one year, a fine of up to 20,000 baht, or both.
    • Sections 362 and 356 of the Criminal Law: Trespassing and disturbing another person’s property at night, punishable by imprisonment of up to five years, a fine of up to 100,000 baht, or both.
    • Section 358 of the Criminal Law: Damaging another person’s property, punishable by imprisonment of six months to 10 years and a fine ranging from 10,000 to 200,000 baht.
    • Section 392 of the Criminal Law: Causing another person to feel fear or shock through threats, punishable by imprisonment of up to one month, a fine of up to 10,000 baht, or both.
    Jagat game Thailand
    Photo via Channel 7

    Aside from community disruptions, concerns have also been raised regarding player safety. The game requires players to share their real-time location with online friends while playing and collect personal and e-payment account information.

    Authorities have urged players to exercise caution and respect the rights of others while participating in the game.

    The story Teasure-hunting game Jagat sparks public distirbance in Thailand as seen on Thaiger News.

    22 January 22 2025
    Crime News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=851630
  • Coin hunting frenzy disrupts Kretin Lai Beach, Chon Buri

    The popular activity of hunting for Jagat coins, which can be exchanged for real money, is disrupting Kretin Lai Beach in Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri province. Yesterday, January 21, at 6.10pm, large groups of coin hunters were seen rummaging through construction materials, rock piles, and even trash, leaving the area in disarray. Residents have …

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    Coin hunting frenzy disrupts Kretin Lai Beach, Chon Buri
    Coin hunting frenzy disrupts Kretin Lai Beach, Chon BuriLegacy

    The popular activity of hunting for Jagat coins, which can be exchanged for real money, is disrupting Kretin Lai Beach in Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri province. Yesterday, January 21, at 6.10pm, large groups of coin hunters were seen rummaging through construction materials, rock piles, and even trash, leaving the area in disarray.

    Residents have expressed concerns about the disorder caused by these hunters, most of whom are teenagers and young adults 15 to 30 years old. Many hunters are reportedly leaving the area in a mess, and some are making loud noises upon finding coins, disturbing others in the vicinity.

    There is also apprehension about safety, as many engage in coin hunting late at night, posing potential risks, reported KhaoSod.

    Locals have urged coin hunters to be more mindful of maintaining cleanliness and order. There are calls for the app developers to implement measures to manage coin hunting areas appropriately, to prevent adverse impacts on tourist spots.

    In related news, Chiang Mai police issued a stern warning to teenagers playing the Jagat Coin treasure-hunting game after reports of property damage and safety risks surfaced. The popular app, developed in Indonesia, has caused disturbances in the northern province, prompting law enforcement to caution players against trespassing on private property.

    The warning was posted on the Chiang Mai Police Facebook page after teens were caught entering a private residence on Soi 9, Mool Muang Road, in Sriphum subdistrict, Mueang district.

    According to Chiang Mai News, the treasure hunters caused significant damage, trampling plants, digging up soil, climbing fences, and breaking into a locked fire extinguisher cabinet. A police red checkpoint box was also vandalised in their quest for the game’s virtual coins.

    The game, launched in Thailand on January 15, involves players using an app to hunt for Jagat coins in public locations. These virtual treasures can be redeemed for substantial cash prizes: gold coins for 200,000 baht, silver coins for 20,000 baht, and bronze coins for 500 to 2,000 baht each.

    The story Coin hunting frenzy disrupts Kretin Lai Beach, Chon Buri as seen on Thaiger News.

    22 January 22 2025
    Thailand News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=851507
  • Labour Ministry probes fake health certificates for migrant workers

    Labour Ministry Permanent Secretary Boonsong Thapchaiyuth ordered an investigation into allegations of fake health certificates being sold to migrant workers, purportedly through connections with senior ministry officials. Boonsong emphasised that the ministry is taking these allegations seriously. He urged representatives and employers registering foreign workers to follow legal protocols, ensuring authentic health checks are conducted. …

    The story Labour Ministry probes fake health certificates for migrant workers as seen on Thaiger News.

    Labour Ministry probes fake health certificates for migrant workers
    Labour Ministry probes fake health certificates for migrant workersLegacy

    Labour Ministry Permanent Secretary Boonsong Thapchaiyuth ordered an investigation into allegations of fake health certificates being sold to migrant workers, purportedly through connections with senior ministry officials.

    Boonsong emphasised that the ministry is taking these allegations seriously. He urged representatives and employers registering foreign workers to follow legal protocols, ensuring authentic health checks are conducted. Following these reports, Boonsong has requested the Department of Employment (DoE) verify the claims.

    Boonsong highlighted that any violations leading to problems, especially those involving hospitals issuing fake medical certificates without proper checks, will face legal action. He has instructed the termination of contracts with such hospitals, prohibiting further collaboration with the ministry.

    He further stated that individuals using false documents will also face legal proceedings. If impersonation is detected, the ministry will thoroughly investigate and take decisive legal action. Boonsong assured that the Labour Ministry’s objective is to regulate migrant labour transparently and efficiently, with an update expected from the DoE soon.

    When asked about rumours of intermediaries claiming connections with ministry officials to arrange health checks for work permits, Boonsong denied any knowledge. He mentioned frequent claims of such connections and has ordered an investigation into these allegations. He emphasised his commitment to transparency and fairness for the benefit of the nation, workers, and employers.

    Regarding whether the ministry will investigate these claims of impersonation, Boonsong acknowledged the frequent instances of such claims. As a leader, he must welcome all visitors to the ministry, although he cannot confirm the identities of those claiming connections. The DoE is conducting a thorough investigation.

    Boonsong addressed reports of an individual, identified as Phan, allegedly moving around the ministry claiming connections. With over 1,000 daily visitors to the Labour Ministry, he could not verify such identities. However, he assured that the DoE is urgently investigating, particularly focusing on healthcare facilities mentioned in the reports. Random inspections are underway to assess the situation.

    Boonsong expressed confidence that the DoE’s findings will soon be reported, ensuring transparency and fairness for all workers. He reiterated the Labour Ministry’s commitment to stringent and decisive actions against fraud involving fake documents or medical certificates, assuring workers and employers of their protection, reported KhaoSod.

    ORIGINAL STORY: Thai health ministry warns against fake medical certificates

    The Thai Ministry of Public Health has issued a stern warning to medical facilities against issuing fake medical certificates to foreign workers. Such actions could result in severe penalties, including a maximum two-year prison sentence and a 40,000 baht fine.

    Phanuwat Panket, Director-General of the Department of Health Service Support (HSS), expressed concerns about potential malpractice by hospitals in issuing medical certificates without conducting actual health examinations. He has instructed legal and regulatory officers to closely monitor and rigorously inspect private healthcare facilities. According to HSS, issuing false medical certificates not only constitutes a legal violation but also poses significant public health risks by potentially exacerbating the spread of infectious diseases.

    “I urge all healthcare operators and administrators to exercise strict oversight and prevent the issuance of false medical certificates. Any facility found guilty of such malpractice will be in violation of the Medical Facilities Act of 1998, which prohibits falsifying medical treatment documents.”

    The penalties for such violations include up to two years of imprisonment, a fine of up to 40,000 baht, or both, as stipulated in Section 73 of the Act.

    Akom Pradit Suwann, Deputy Director-General of HSS, further elaborated on the measures to ensure the integrity of health examinations for foreign nationals. Medical facilities that wish to provide health check-ups for foreigners must seek additional approval from HSS or the provincial public health office. They are required to adhere to the standards outlined in the Ministry of Public Health’s 2024 regulations on foreign health examinations.

    For off-site health examinations, facilities must notify the relevant authorities at least 10 days in advance, using the designated form SP.T.1. Should the health examination reveal any diseases that are grounds for immigration prohibition or classified as dangerous communicable diseases under the relevant laws, the medical facility is obligated to report the findings to the corresponding government agency, reported KhaoSod.

    Non-compliance with these legal requirements constitutes a breach of the Medical Facilities Act of 1998, carrying penalties of up to one year in prison, a fine of up to 20,000 baht, or both, according to Section 35 (4) in conjunction with Section 65. Additionally, administrative measures may be enforced, including the temporary closure of the facility.

    The story Labour Ministry probes fake health certificates for migrant workers as seen on Thaiger News.

    22 January 22 2025
    Crime News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=851524
  • Driver killed as car crashes into electricity pole in Phetchaburi

    A tragic accident occurred when a car veered off the road and crashed into an electricity pole, snapping it in two. The driver, a 59 year old man named Thanakorn, was killed instantly. The incident took place at 6.01pm yesterday, January 21, along Phetkasem Road in Don Khun Huai subdistrict, Cha-am district, Phetchaburi province. Police …

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    Driver killed as car crashes into electricity pole in Phetchaburi
    Driver killed as car crashes into electricity pole in PhetchaburiLegacy

    A tragic accident occurred when a car veered off the road and crashed into an electricity pole, snapping it in two. The driver, a 59 year old man named Thanakorn, was killed instantly.

    The incident took place at 6.01pm yesterday, January 21, along Phetkasem Road in Don Khun Huai subdistrict, Cha-am district, Phetchaburi province.

    Police Lieutenant Suthat Majaeo, deputy inspector at Cha-am Police Station, received a report about the accident involving a Toyota sedan with the license plate 7อ-6073 Bangkok. The car was found in a wrecked state, entangled with a high-voltage electricity pole.

    The impact was so severe that it left the car in pieces, scattering belongings and documents around the area. The high-voltage pole was left leaning, necessitating the use of two large cranes to stabilise it and remove the vehicle, causing significant traffic congestion over several kilometres.

    Rescue teams, using hydraulic equipment, extricated the driver’s body from the wreckage. Thanakorn was identified as a resident of Wang Manow subdistrict, Pak Tho district, Ratchaburi province.

    Surveillance footage showed the car driving normally before losing control and crashing into the pole. It is suspected that the driver may have experienced a sudden fainting spell or fell asleep at the wheel, reported KhaoSod.

    The body was transported to Cha-am Hospital for further investigation and legal proceedings, before being returned to the family for religious rites.

    Driver killed as car crashes into electricity pole in Phetchaburi | News by Thaiger
    Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

    In related news, a tragic accident occurred in Chon Buri when a 36 year old woman collided with a parked pickup truck while riding her motorcycle. The accident, which took place on a dimly lit road near the Sattahip Naval Base, resulted in her death at the scene.

    Rescue volunteers from the Sawang Rojanathammasathan Foundation attempted CPR on the victim, Somboon Chomsiri, but she succumbed to her injuries, which included severe facial wounds.

    The story Driver killed as car crashes into electricity pole in Phetchaburi as seen on Thaiger News.

    22 January 22 2025
    Road deaths
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=851512
  • State Welfare Card applications to open by March

    Applications for the State Welfare Card will open by the end of March, with low-income and vulnerable groups invited to register. The registration follows two years after the last round, which took place from September 5 to October 31, 2022. Julapan Amornwiwat, Deputy Finance Minister, announced that the details of the new registration for the …

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    State Welfare Card applications to open by March
    State Welfare Card applications to open by MarchLegacy

    Applications for the State Welfare Card will open by the end of March, with low-income and vulnerable groups invited to register. The registration follows two years after the last round, which took place from September 5 to October 31, 2022.

    Julapan Amornwiwat, Deputy Finance Minister, announced that the details of the new registration for the State Welfare Card this year are still under review. He mentioned that further time is required to finalise the updated conditions, which have yet to be agreed upon.

    A meeting is scheduled for January to finalise these details, including the proposal of new criteria to the Cabinet for approval before the registration period begins in March.

    “The conditions are not yet finalised, but there is still time to consider them thoroughly, such as determining wealth, which is challenging in Thailand due to insufficient data. However, conclusions will be reached before the registration opens in March.”

    The registration process will utilise the Tang Rat application to facilitate convenience for the public. Relevant agencies have been tasked with studying the registration process through this app. Additionally, the Fiscal Policy Office (FPO) has been instructed to review old and new criteria to ensure comprehensive coverage and prevent ineligible individuals from claiming benefits. The existing household income criteria remain unchanged, while the criteria for land ownership will be enforceable. Details concerning assets, bond holdings, and eligibility for the State Welfare Card this year will be examined individually and at the family level.

    Eligibility

    To qualify, applicants must be Thai nationals aged 18 or older with an individual annual income not exceeding 100,000 baht. The family’s average income should also not exceed 100,000 baht per person annually. Financial assets, including deposits, bonds, and other debt instruments, must not surpass 100,000 baht per person, with the same limit applicable per family.

    Applicants must not own real estate or land beyond the criteria set by the finance ministry, possess credit cards, or have home loans exceeding 1.5 million baht or car loans over 1 million baht. The programme excludes monks, novices, prisoners, individuals in shelters, civil servants, government employees, pensioners, and political officials, including MPs and senators.

    The State Welfare Card offers monthly cash assistance of 1,545 baht, including 300 baht for consumer goods, 750 baht for public transport, and an 80 baht discount on cooking gas every three months. Additional measures include a 100 baht monthly water bill relief and a 315 baht monthly electricity bill relief per household. The programme is estimated to cost approximately 4.8 billion baht per month or around 50 billion baht annually, reported KhaoSod.

    The story State Welfare Card applications to open by March as seen on Thaiger News.

    22 January 22 2025
    Finance
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=851570
  • Thai actress accused of swindling 20 million baht and threatening victims

    A news Facebook page claimed to have received complaints from three followers alleging that a Thai actress swindled them out of 20 million baht and used the name of a Thai politician to threaten them into remaining silent. The Facebook page, Big Kren, publicly reported the complaints it received from the three people yesterday, January …

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    Thai actress accused of swindling 20 million baht and threatening victims
    Thai actress accused of swindling 20 million baht and threatening victimsLegacy

    A news Facebook page claimed to have received complaints from three followers alleging that a Thai actress swindled them out of 20 million baht and used the name of a Thai politician to threaten them into remaining silent.

    The Facebook page, Big Kren, publicly reported the complaints it received from the three people yesterday, January 20. According to the page, the actress borrowed a total of over 20 million baht from these three and tried to avoid repaying the debt by invoking the name of a prominent Thai politician.

    One of the victims stated that the actress first borrowed money from her in 2023. She lent the actress money on four occasions: 800,000 baht, 2.2 million baht, 2.8 million baht, and 3 million baht.

    The victim said she had been attempting to recover her money since November 2023, but her efforts were unsuccessful.

    The actress reportedly claimed that she did not borrow the money for herself but that a politician had asked her to seek the funds on his behalf. She added that the politician failed to repay the money, leaving her unable to reimburse the victim.

    Thai actress swindles from there people our of 20 million baht
    Photo by Nzewi Confidence via Canva

    The victims also shared screenshots of conversations between themselves and the actress on the Facebook page. In one of the conversations, the actress assured the victim that she would repay the money as soon as she received earnings from 88.

    The page and netizens speculated that 88 might refer to an illegal gambling website or an illicit lottery platform in which the actress allegedly had a stake.

    The page further revealed abbreviations of the actress’s name, prompting Thai netizens to speculate about her identity. As of now, no celebrities or politicians have issued statements regarding the allegations.

    Thai actress accused politician of swindling 20 million baht
    Photo by Dillon Kydd via Unsplash

    In a related case, a Laotian actress, Wanmanee “Lilly” Ponsavan, sought justice last year, claiming that a former Thai singer, Aongart “Aerk” Lederer, swindled her out of 34 million baht. She accused the singer of deceiving her into investing in a beauty clinic, resulting in significant financial losses.

    Additionally, Lilly accused another Thai actress, Mantana “Pu” Himathongkham, of owing her 670,000 baht, leading to ongoing legal and social media battles.

    The story Thai actress accused of swindling 20 million baht and threatening victims as seen on Thaiger News.

    22 January 22 2025
    Crime News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=851448
  • Toddler in critical condition after falling into water container

    An 11 month old boy tragically fell into a water container in Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima district, Nakhon Ratchasima province, leaving him in critical condition. After being found without a pulse, emergency responders performed CPR and rushed him to Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital. Medical professionals cautioned that if he regains consciousness, he may not recover fully. …

    The story Toddler in critical condition after falling into water container as seen on Thaiger News.

    Toddler in critical condition after falling into water container
    Toddler in critical condition after falling into water containerLegacy

    An 11 month old boy tragically fell into a water container in Mueang Nakhon Ratchasima district, Nakhon Ratchasima province, leaving him in critical condition. After being found without a pulse, emergency responders performed CPR and rushed him to Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital. Medical professionals cautioned that if he regains consciousness, he may not recover fully.

    The incident occurred yesterday, January 21, when a rescue team from Sawang Metta Thammasathan Foundation received an alert about the accident at a village in Hua Thale subdistrict. The team coordinated with Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital’s medical responders and quickly proceeded to the scene.

    They arrived at an unnumbered abandoned house where they found a 76 year old great-grandmother holding her 11 month old great-grandson and crying inconsolably. The child had no pulse, prompting the team to administer CPR before transporting him urgently to the hospital.

    In tears, the great-grandmother recounted that the child is her great-grandson, the son of her granddaughter who was unprepared for motherhood. After his birth, the child was entrusted to her care, and they lived together with her husband in the abandoned house without electricity and water, relying on whatever they could manage.

    Before the accident, she observed the boy playing in water containers lined up in front of their home. She scolded him and slapped his hand to stop him from playing there and then went inside, with her great-grandson following.

    “While I was looking for things and a yellow bucket to store water, I assumed he was playing. After half an hour, I couldn’t find him. I called out for him but there was no response. Eventually, I found him headfirst in a black water container. I quickly lifted him onto my shoulder and patted his back to get the water out, not knowing how long he had been in the water.”

    Water accident

    The great-grandmother also shared that her great-grandson often played with water in the containers, using a scoop to splash around. She would regularly scold him, hitting his hand to deter him.

    He was an energetic child, always running and playing, full of joy and a love for dancing. They used the water in the containers, sourced from neighbours every two to four days, for laundry and dishwashing, reported KhaoSod.

    “Every morning before my husband left for work, he would kiss our great-grandson. Witnessing him drowning was heartbreaking. The doctors have informed us that he stopped breathing for a significant time, resulting in severe conditions.

    If he wakes, he may not return to normal, possibly becoming disabled or in a permanent coma. Despite this, my only hope is that he survives, regardless of any disabilities or conditions he might have.”

    The story Toddler in critical condition after falling into water container as seen on Thaiger News.

    22 January 22 2025
    Thailand News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=851514
  • Thailand video news | Bangkok road rage incident turns fatal, Philippines arrests alleged Chinese spy

    In today’s Thailand video news, Alex delivers gripping stories from across the nation. Highlights include a tragic road rage incident in Bangkok, a pitbull attack on a monk in Nonthaburi, and the arrest of a French student for explicit social media content. Viewers are also updated on Thailand’s hazardous air pollution crisis, a major theft …

    The story Thailand video news | Bangkok road rage incident turns fatal, Philippines arrests alleged Chinese spy as seen on Thaiger News.

    Thailand video news | Bangkok road rage incident turns fatal, Philippines arrests alleged Chinese spy
    Thailand video news | Bangkok road rage incident turns fatal, Philippines arrests alleged Chinese spyThe Thaiger

    In today’s Thailand video news, Alex delivers gripping stories from across the nation. Highlights include a tragic road rage incident in Bangkok, a pitbull attack on a monk in Nonthaburi, and the arrest of a French student for explicit social media content. Viewers are also updated on Thailand’s hazardous air pollution crisis, a major theft in Nonthaburi, and debates over visa-free entry for Chinese nationals. Beyond Thailand, the news covers a deadly hotel fire in Turkey, Cambodia’s response to a murder investigation, Trump’s proposed Gaza relocation plan, and the arrest of a Chinese spy in the Philippines.

    Bangkok Road Rage Incident Turns Fatal

    A Foodpanda rider was killed in a road rage incident on Sukhumvit Road, near Nana, Bangkok. Mr. Rittisak, 48, attempted to negotiate after a collision with Mr. Seri, 30. The confrontation escalated when Mr. Seri attacked the rider and then pursued him with his car, leading to a fatal crash. Police arrested the driver and are investigating.

    Pitbull Kills Monk in Nonthaburi Temple

    A pitbull dog fatally attacked 46-year-old monk Phra Bannadit at a Nonthaburi temple. His body was found with severe injuries, including a missing wrist. The dog, Jord, had a history of aggression. Police are investigating, and the monk’s body has been sent for a post-mortem. The temple is undecided about the dog’s future.

    French Student Arrested Over Explicit Content

    Bangkok police arrested a 26-year-old French student, Mr. K, for posting explicit videos with Thai women on social media. He admitted to filming the content but claimed it was a youthful mistake. Police charged him under computer crime laws. Some women were reportedly filmed without consent. Authorities urged victims to seek help.

    Toxic Air Crisis Hits 70 Thai Provinces

    PM2.5 pollution has reached hazardous levels in 70 of the 77 Thai provinces. Samut Sakhon recorded the highest, at 144.8µg/m³, far above the safe limit. Smog from burning, vehicle emissions, and industry poses severe health risks. Residents are advised to wear masks and stay indoors. Critics demand stronger government action.

    Thief Steals 1 Million Baht in Nonthaburi

    A thief disguised as a jogger broke into a luxury Nonthaburi home and stole over 1 million baht in cash, gold, and valuables. CCTV captured the suspect in sportswear, but he remains at large. The unguarded residential area has been criticised for lacking security, and police are investigating similar thefts in the area.

    Thailand Considers Revising Visa-Free Policy for Chinese Nationals

    Thailand may revise its visa-free policy for Chinese nationals amid concerns over misuse by crime groups. Senator Wanchai Ekpornpichit proposed alternatives, such as visas-on-arrival requiring proof of accommodation. The government seeks to balance tourism growth with improved security measures to prevent exploitation.

    Hotel Fire in Turkey Kills 76

    A fire at the Grand Kartal Hotel in Turkey’s Kartalkaya Ski Resort killed 76 people and injured 51 others. Most victims died from suffocation. Authorities detained nine suspects as investigations continue. Turkish President Erdoğan ordered probes and declared a national day of mourning.

    Cambodian PM Denies Role in Kimya Murder

    Cambodian PM Hun Manet denied government involvement in the murder of ex-MP Lim Kimya in Thailand, linking the motive to personal conflict. Cambodia extradited suspect Ekkalak Pheanoi and offered cooperation. Thai police issued warrants for two other suspects believed to have orchestrated the crime.

    Trump Team Proposes Gaza Relocation Plan

    Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff suggested relocating Gaza civilians to Indonesia to aid post-conflict rebuilding. As the Israel-Hamas ceasefire holds, the plan aims to stabilise the region and prevent further unrest. Witkoff plans to visit Gaza to assess conditions and support peace efforts.

    Philippines Arrests Alleged Chinese Spy

    Philippine authorities arrested Chinese national Deng Yuanqing and two Filipinos for spying on critical infrastructure, including military bases. Operating under a tech front, they gathered sensitive data using surveillance equipment. This is the second suspected Chinese spy arrest as South China Sea tensions rise.

    The story Thailand video news | Bangkok road rage incident turns fatal, Philippines arrests alleged Chinese spy as seen on Thaiger News.

    22 January 22 2025
    Thailand News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=851579
  • Khon Kaen: 4 year old girl has close brush with child abductor

    A warning has emerged in Khon Kaen regarding an alleged child abduction gang after a mother recounted an incident involving her four year old daughter nearly being taken by a stranger. Police have confirmed that no missing child cases have been reported. A Facebook user posted about a child abduction gang in action yesterday, January …

    The story Khon Kaen: 4 year old girl has close brush with child abductor as seen on Thaiger News.

    Khon Kaen: 4 year old girl has close brush with child abductor
    Khon Kaen: 4 year old girl has close brush with child abductorLegacy

    A warning has emerged in Khon Kaen regarding an alleged child abduction gang after a mother recounted an incident involving her four year old daughter nearly being taken by a stranger. Police have confirmed that no missing child cases have been reported.

    A Facebook user posted about a child abduction gang in action yesterday, January 21, claiming her daughter was almost taken by the group. The post mentioned that two children aged between two and three had disappeared in Tha Phra and urged caution. The post attracted significant attention before it was deleted.

    When approached by reporters, the woman declined an interview but shared some CCTV footage. The footage captured the moment her four year old daughter was nearly abducted by a stranger. The video showed the girl playing in a sand pile at a local market in Sila subdistrict, Mueang district, Khon Kaen province.

    A man was seen loitering around the child, eventually attempting to grab her arm. Fortunately, a market vendor familiar with the family and the girl called out her name, prompting the stranger to quickly walk away. The mother shared the story on social media to alert others about potential dangers.

    Police Colonel Phumee Eakala, head of Tha Phra Police Station, stated that investigations conducted by three on-duty investigators revealed no reports of child abductions or missing children. Further checks with a local group chat, comprising police officers, village heads, community leaders, local politicians, and leaders from the three subdistricts under the jurisdiction of Tha Phra Police Station, confirmed no such incidents had occurred in the area, reported KhaoSod.

    In a similar report, a warning has been issued regarding a suspected child abduction vehicle, leading to the closure of schools and increased vigilance among locals in Chiang Rai. The alert follows reports of a suspicious man attempting to abduct children on January 15.

    The story Khon Kaen: 4 year old girl has close brush with child abductor as seen on Thaiger News.

    22 January 22 2025
    Crime News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=851511
  • Family demands justice after cyclist’s death in Chiang Rai

    A family is seeking accountability after a 33 year old coffee shop owner and award-winning barista, was fatally struck by a car while cycling with friends in Chiang Rai on October 9 last year. The driver was revealed to be a school director from Chiang Saen district, who has yet to take responsibility for the …

    The story Family demands justice after cyclist’s death in Chiang Rai as seen on Thaiger News.

    Family demands justice after cyclist’s death in Chiang Rai
    Family demands justice after cyclist’s death in Chiang RaiLegacy

    A family is seeking accountability after a 33 year old coffee shop owner and award-winning barista, was fatally struck by a car while cycling with friends in Chiang Rai on October 9 last year. The driver was revealed to be a school director from Chiang Saen district, who has yet to take responsibility for the incident despite previous mediation attempts through a prosecutor.

    Most recently, at the Office of the Chiang Rai Primary Educational Service Area 3 in Mae Chan district, Sojilak Jaibao, Yotthaphon Chaibao’s wife, along with his relatives, wore black shirts and held signs demanding justice from Doctor Suteerat Aridech, the director.

    Sojilak disclosed that during prosecutor mediation, they requested 10 million baht (US$294,724) in compensation due to her husband’s young age, potential, and promising future.

    However, the other party offered only 1 million baht (US$29,472) and showed no genuine concern, failing to reach out after the accident until the office’s legal officer informed them. Consequently, Sojilak was asked to negotiate on behalf of her husband.

    Doctor Suteerat confirmed that a fact-finding committee has been established, which is expected to conclude its investigation within 90 days. The next steps involve interviewing Sojilak and the accused before summarising the findings in one to two months.

    Preliminary legal advice suggests the director could face severe disciplinary action if found guilty. Potential consequences range from dismissal, if the misconduct is severe, to salary reduction for less serious violations.

    The process will adhere strictly to established procedures, ensuring justice is served, reported KhaoSod.

    Original story: Cycling accident in Chiang Rai claims coffee champion’s life

    A tragic accident in Chiang Rai has left the local community mourning the loss of a 33 year old renowned coffee drip champion, Yodsaphon Chaibao, who died while cycling with friends. A black Toyota Fortuner collided with his bicycle, causing fatal injuries.

    Police from Ban Du Station, Chiang Rai, arrested the driver and seized the vehicle for further investigation after the accident, which occurred at 6.30pm on October 10 last year. Yodsaphon owned a coffee shop and was celebrated for his contributions to the local coffee industry. Just recently, he had helped flood victims in Mae Sai.

    Investigations revealed that the black Toyota Fortuner had significant damage on the left front side. The police are questioning the driver and inspecting the vehicle. It is reported that the car is linked to a high-ranking school official in Chiang Saen, Chiang Rai.

    The accident happened when police received a report of a severe collision involving a bicycle, which left a man critically injured. Yodsaphon was cycling with eight friends on Route 1063, a four-lane bypass road, when the incident occurred. The black Toyota Fortuner hit Yodsaphon’s bicycle from behind, causing him to be thrown off the road.

    The driver did not stop but instead drove into a nearby petrol station before continuing on their way. Yodsaphon’s friends flagged down an ambulance, which transported him to Mae Fah Luang University Hospital, where he later died.

    Yodsaphon, who lived in Tha Sut, Mueang district, Chiang Rai, was the owner of Kaang Tong Café in Tha Sut. He had won the Mighty Mix Bartender and Barista Thailand 2023 competition in the NAN DRIP BATTLE x HARIO category.

    An initial investigation found that Yodsaphon and his group left Mae Fah Luang University and were cycling on the leftmost lane of Route 1063 when the accident occurred. The Toyota Fortuner that hit him did not stop to assist but entered a petrol station briefly before driving away. His friends managed to get him to the hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries, reported KhaoSod.

    Yodsaphon was well-loved and played a significant role in developing Chiang Rai’s coffee scene. Known for his kind nature, he was cherished by friends and colleagues. During the severe floods in September, Yodsaphon and his friends delivered drinking water to affected areas in Mueang Chiang Rai and Mae Sai.

    The story Family demands justice after cyclist’s death in Chiang Rai as seen on Thaiger News.

    22 January 22 2025
    Crime News
    https://thethaiger.com/?p=851516