News

Missing Korean Found Drowned Off Koh Phangan

Published

6 days ago

December 31, 2024

Wadi

Recovery of the Drowned Korean Tourist

The body of a South Korean man, who went missing after a long-tail ferry boat capsized off Koh Phangan, was found floating in the sea on December 31, 2024. The tragic discovery was made shortly before noon, approximately 600 meters from Haad Rin pier, where the boat had originally departed.

Circumstances Surrounding the Incident

The man was among ten tourists aboard the long-tail boat named Pichitchai 38 when it capsized early Sunday morning due to rough seas and high waves. The incident occurred around 3 AM on December 29, leading to a frantic rescue operation that ultimately saved nine passengers and three crew members. Unfortunately, one individual remained missing until the recovery of his body.

Identification and Investigation

Confirmation of Identity

Authorities confirmed that the body recovered matched the clothing worn by the missing tourist, identified as Hyun-jin. The body was subsequently sent to Koh Phangan Hospital for a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause.

Legal Consequences for Boat Operator

In light of this tragedy, Surat Thani Governor Theerut Supawibulpol announced that the boat’s owner would face charges for recklessness causing incident. Investigations revealed that the boat was unregistered and operated by a captain who lacked the appropriate licensing. Furthermore, it was discovered that the captain had tested positive for drugs and had ignored official warnings advising all small boats to stay ashore due to hazardous conditions.

Safety Measures Implemented

Precautions Along Haad Rin Beach

In response to the incident, red flags prohibiting swimming were placed along Haad Rin beach, where a New Year countdown celebration was planned for later that night. Local authorities are taking steps to ensure visitor safety following this tragic event.

Ongoing Investigations

The investigation into the capsizing incident continues as officials scrutinize whether negligence or improper conduct contributed to this unfortunate accident. The local community is left mourning the loss while advocating for stricter safety regulations for tourist vessels in the region.

A Tragic Reminder of Safety in Tourism

The drowning of Hyun-jin serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of safety measures in tourism-related activities. As Koh Phangan prepares for its New Year celebrations, it is crucial for both operators and tourists to prioritize safety to prevent such tragedies in the future.

News

Thailand Post Announces Postage Fee Increases Amid Rising Operational Costs

Published

4 hours ago

January 6, 2025

Wadi

Thailand Post Implements Second Rate Hike in Three Years

Thailand Post has officially announced the second phase of service charge increases, following a previous hike in 2022. This adjustment comes as the state enterprise grapples with rising operational costs that have impacted its financial sustainability.

Historical Context of Rate Adjustments

The 2022 rate changes marked the first increase in over 18 years, reflecting the significant economic pressures faced by the organization. The new rates will apply to a variety of services, including envelope letters, packaged letters, registered envelope letters, printed goods, postcards, and parcels.

Encouragement to Use Eco Post Service

In light of the new pricing structure, Thailand Post has encouraged customers to consider using the Eco Post service as a more economical alternative to registered mail. Eco Post provides a cost-effective option while still allowing customers to track their shipments effectively.

Navigating Economic Challenges

As Thailand Post adjusts its service fees, it highlights the ongoing challenges within the postal industry amid rising costs and evolving market demands. Customers are urged to stay informed about these changes and explore alternative services that may better suit their needs during this transition.

News

Chevron Thailand Donates 666,000 Baht for Southern Thailand Flood Relief Efforts

Published

4 hours ago

January 6, 2025

Wadi

Chevron’s Generous Contribution to Flood Relief

Chevron Thailand Exploration and Production, Ltd. has made a significant donation of 666,806 baht to the Thai Red Cross Society to support flood relief efforts in southern Thailand. The donation was presented by Pornsuree Konanta, Vice President of Corporate Affairs, and received by Janprapa Vichitcholchai, Deputy Director of the Fund-Raising Bureau.

Impact of Severe Flooding in Southern Thailand

The southern region of Thailand has been severely affected by heavy rainfall since November 2024, particularly in provinces such as Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, Satun, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. This contribution aims to aid communities that have experienced significant hardships due to flooding.

Part of the “Chevron Humankind” Initiative

This donation is part of Chevron’s decade-long initiative known as “Chevron Humankind,” which encourages employees to engage in charitable activities. Under this program, Chevron matches employee donations twofold. This year, the company matched employee contributions to the Thai Red Cross Society, resulting in a total donation of 666,806 baht dedicated to assisting flood-affected areas.

Previous Contributions to Support Local Communities

In December 2024, Chevron also donated 100,000 baht to the Nakhon Si Thammarat Journalists Association. This funding supports the Pracha Ruamchai Foundation’s mission to provide essential food and drinking water to flood victims in Nakhon Si Thammarat, ensuring that urgent assistance reaches those in need.

Chevron’s proactive approach highlights its commitment to corporate social responsibility and community support during times of crisis. By providing financial assistance and encouraging employee involvement in charitable efforts, Chevron demonstrates its dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by natural disasters in southern Thailand.

News

250 Thai Job Seekers Left Stranded at Suvarnabhumi Airport in Scam

Published

5 hours ago

January 6, 2025

Wadi

Job Seekers Deceived by Fraudulent Brokers

Approximately 250 individuals were left stranded at Suvarnabhumi Airport on Saturday after being promised employment opportunities in Australia and Israel by job brokers. The disappointed job seekers reported that they collectively paid around 12 million baht in broker fees.

Formal Complaints Filed with Authorities

On Monday, fifty of the affected individuals took action by filing formal complaints with the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB). One victim, Narongchai, 42, disclosed that they had paid between 60,000 to 120,000 baht each to a woman known as “Ms. Aoy” to secure various job placements in Australia.

Promises of Work in Israel

Other victims, who also filed complaints with the airport police on Saturday, claimed they were promised jobs in Israel. Ms. Aoy appeared at the airport and stated that she had transferred the victims’ funds to another individual named “Ms. Fa,” who allegedly worked at a foreign embassy and claimed to facilitate overseas job placements for Thais.

Ms. Aoy’s Claims and Victims’ Frustration

Ms. Aoy assured the victims that she would present the visas she arranged for them to the Crime Suppression Division on Monday to prove her innocence. However, as of Monday morning, the victims were unable to contact her, exacerbating their frustration and concern.

Government Response and Warnings

Government deputy spokesman Karom Ponpornklang announced that the Department of Employment and the Ministry of Labour were assisting victims in filing their complaints with the CIB’s Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division. The Ministry has also instructed the airport labor checkpoint to closely monitor job brokers for illegal activities.Karom emphasized that Thai citizens seeking work abroad must do so legally and should thoroughly vet brokers before handing over any money. He reiterated that overseas job agencies must be approved by the Department of Labour to ensure legitimacy.

A Call for Vigilance Among Job Seekers

This incident serves as a stark reminder for job seekers about the importance of verifying the legitimacy of job offers and brokers. As authorities investigate this scam, it highlights the need for greater awareness and regulation to protect individuals from fraudulent schemes targeting those seeking better employment opportunities abroad.