Thailand prepares to welcome back tourists after devastating shutdown

Dining with a view? Thai locals rush to dine at flooded restaurant

Fully vaccinated travellers from any country can now book holidays to tourism haven Phuket, the Thai government has announced, under tweaks to a struggling quarantine-free travel scheme.

Thailand's tourism industry has been on its knees, with the coronavirus pandemic and related restrictions slashing visitor numbers from 40 million in 2019 to a mere trickle over the last two years.

Pre-virus, the sector made up a fifth of Thailand's national income, and the travel curbs have fed into the country's worst economic performance in more than two decades.

The kingdom launched a "sandbox" scheme in July, which allowed fully vaccinated travellers from countries considered low-to-medium risk to roam free on the popular beach island for a fortnight, and then afterwards travel to the mainland without quarantine.

Last week, authorities cut the required stay to a week, in line with national changes to quarantine rules.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand announced late Friday that the scheme had been broadened from the around 80 countries already eligible.

"This means Thailand is now welcoming travellers from any country in the world to the sandbox programme," it said in a statement.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Tanee Sangrat said unvaccinated children would be able to travel with their vaccinated parents.

The sandbox programme has already lured more than 38,000 visitors to the white sands of Phuket, and generated $66.67 million.

But tourism operators are lukewarm on the revival of the island's economy, where 90 percent of hotels have been shuttered.&nbsp;

They have been pleading for the government to simplify entry requirements to increase visitor numbers.

The changes will allow previously excluded Indonesians and Malaysians to travel to Phuket.&nbsp;

Before the pandemic, Malaysia was Thailand's second biggest source of tourists, with more than four million travellers visiting in 2019.

Thai authorities hope to reopen five other destinations, including capital Bangkok, using the sandbox model from the start of November, followed by 20 more locations in December once vaccination rates increase.

However, travel advice from other countries discouraging would-be tourists could hamper Thailand's plans to reboot the industry.

Britain and the US have issued travel warnings as the country grapples with a deadly third wave of the virus and low vaccination rates.

Daily new case numbers are hovering at around 11,000, following a peak of 23,000 in August -&nbsp;but testing levels have also declined.

Fully vaccinated travellers from any country can now book holidays to tourism haven Phuket, the Thai government has announced, under tweaks to a struggling quarantine-free travel scheme.

Fully vaccinated travellers from any country can now book holidays to tourism haven Phuket, the Thai government has announced, under tweaks to a struggling quarantine-free travel scheme. Thailand's tourism industry has been on its knees, with the coronavirus pandemic and related restrictions slashing visitor numbers from 40 million in 2019 to a mere trickle over the last two years. Pre-virus, the sector made up a fifth of Thailand's national income, and the travel curbs have fed into the country's worst economic performance in more than two decades. The kingdom launched a "sandbox" scheme in July, which allowed fully vaccinated travellers from countries considered low-to-medium risk to roam free on the popular beach island for a fortnight, and then afterwards travel to the mainland without quarantine. Last week, authorities cut the required stay to a week, in line with national changes to quarantine rules. The Tourism Authority of Thailand announced late Friday that the scheme had been broadened from the around 80 countries already eligible. "This means Thailand is now welcoming travellers from any country in the world to the sandbox programme," it said in a statement. Foreign Ministry spokesman Tanee Sangrat said unvaccinated children would be able to travel with their vaccinated parents. The sandbox programme has already lured more than 38,000 visitors to the white sands of Phuket, and generated $66.67 million. But tourism operators are lukewarm on the revival of the island's economy, where 90 percent of hotels have been shuttered. They have been pleading for the government to simplify entry requirements to increase visitor numbers. The changes will allow previously excluded Indonesians and Malaysians to travel to Phuket. Before the pandemic, Malaysia was Thailand's second biggest source of tourists, with more than four million travellers visiting in 2019. Thai authorities hope to reopen five other destinations, including capital Bangkok, using the sandbox model from the start of November, followed by 20 more locations in December once vaccination rates increase. However, travel advice from other countries discouraging would-be tourists could hamper Thailand's plans to reboot the industry. Britain and the US have issued travel warnings as the country grapples with a deadly third wave of the virus and low vaccination rates. Daily new case numbers are hovering at around 11,000, following a peak of 23,000 in August - but testing levels have also declined.

Phuket opens to all vaccinated travellers

Thai authorities on Tuesday rushed to protect parts of Bangkok from floodwaters that have already inundated 70,000 homes and killed six people in the country's northern and central provinces.

Tropical storm Dianmu has caused flooding in 30 provinces, with the kingdom's central region the worst hit, the Thai Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department said.

The level of the Chao Phraya River -- which snakes through Bangkok after winding almost 400 kilometres from the north -- is steadily rising as authorities release water from dams further upstream.

Soldiers on Tuesday set up barriers and sandbags to protect ancient archaeological ruins and landmarks as well as neighbourhoods in the old royal capital Ayutthaya, some 60 km (40 miles) north of Bangkok.

"Most of the banana trees that I planted have been submerged. It's all gone," Ayutthaya flood victim Somporn, 52, told AFP.

There are hopes Bangkok can avoid a repeat of the catastrophic 2011 monsoon season, when it experienced its worst flooding in decades -- a fifth of the city was underwater and more than 500 people died.

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration says it is closely monitoring the Chao Phraya's water level and has water pumps and sandbags ready.

"We will give people a warning if there is a sign the water level is rising and if there is a risk of flash floods," Bangkok governor Aswin Kwanmuang said on Tuesday.

Bangkok officials have begun piling sandbags outside banks and other businesses near a canal in Thonglor -- a shopping district and residential area popular with expats.

Once dubbed the "Venice of the East", the capital is built on former marshland and rests about 1.5 metres (five feet) above sea level.

In the past, farmland and rice paddies in low-lying areas absorbed flood water, but the city's expansion has seen much converted into real estate.

The city's flood prevention masterplan, involving underground reservoirs and tunnels, has not been fully built because of problems acquiring land, local media reported.

Over the weekend, emergency teams staged dramatic rescues evacuating villagers from rooftops in parts of Chaiyaphum province, about four hours northeast of the capital.

A TikTok user filmed a dramatic dog rescue in Lopburi province, as onlookers lowered a shirtless man into the raging torrent to fish out a paddling black pooch on Monday afternoon.

Thai authorities on Tuesday rushed to protect parts of Bangkok from floodwaters that have already inundated 70,000 homes and killed six people in the country's northern and central provinces.

Thai authorities on Tuesday rushed to protect parts of Bangkok from floodwaters that have already inundated 70,000 homes and killed six people in the country's northern and central provinces. Tropical storm Dianmu has caused flooding in 30 provinces, with the kingdom's central region the worst hit, the Thai Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department said. The level of the Chao Phraya River -- which snakes through Bangkok after winding almost 400 kilometres from the north -- is steadily rising as authorities release water from dams further upstream. Soldiers on Tuesday set up barriers and sandbags to protect ancient archaeological ruins and landmarks as well as neighbourhoods in the old royal capital Ayutthaya, some 60 km (40 miles) north of Bangkok. "Most of the banana trees that I planted have been submerged. It's all gone," Ayutthaya flood victim Somporn, 52, told AFP. There are hopes Bangkok can avoid a repeat of the catastrophic 2011 monsoon season, when it experienced its worst flooding in decades -- a fifth of the city was underwater and more than 500 people died. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration says it is closely monitoring the Chao Phraya's water level and has water pumps and sandbags ready. "We will give people a warning if there is a sign the water level is rising and if there is a risk of flash floods," Bangkok governor Aswin Kwanmuang said on Tuesday. Bangkok officials have begun piling sandbags outside banks and other businesses near a canal in Thonglor -- a shopping district and residential area popular with expats. Once dubbed the "Venice of the East", the capital is built on former marshland and rests about 1.5 metres (five feet) above sea level. In the past, farmland and rice paddies in low-lying areas absorbed flood water, but the city's expansion has seen much converted into real estate. The city's flood prevention masterplan, involving underground reservoirs and tunnels, has not been fully built because of problems acquiring land, local media reported. Over the weekend, emergency teams staged dramatic rescues evacuating villagers from rooftops in parts of Chaiyaphum province, about four hours northeast of the capital. A TikTok user filmed a dramatic dog rescue in Lopburi province, as onlookers lowered a shirtless man into the raging torrent to fish out a paddling black pooch on Monday afternoon.

Bangkok on alert as 70,000 homes flooded in Thailand 

Thailand's disease control committee has proposed a halving of a two-week hotel isolation requirement for vaccinated arrivals, amid delays in plans to waive quarantine and reopen Bangkok and tourist destinations from next month.

Thailand&nbsp;is keen to welcome back foreign visitors, after nearly 18 months of strict entry policies caused a collapse in tourism, a key sector that drew 40 million visitors in 2019.

"Reducing the quarantine is not only about tourism, but will help business travel and foreign students," senior health official Opas Karnkawinpong told a news conference, adding tests would also be required.

Under the proposal, to be presented to government on Monday, those without vaccination proof would be isolated for 10 days if arriving by air, and 14 days if by land.

Authorities this week delayed&nbsp;to November plans to grant vaccinated visitors entry without quarantine, due to the country's low inoculation rate.

Only Phuket and Samui islands currently waive quarantine for vaccinated tourists, as part of a pilot scheme.

Less than a quarter of the estimated 72 million people living in&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;have been fully vaccinated.

The country is still fighting its most severe wave of infections, which has accounted for about 99% of its 1.5 million cases and 15,884 deaths.

Thailand's disease control committee has proposed a halving of a two-week hotel isolation requirement for vaccinated arrivals, amid delays in plans to waive quarantine and reopen Bangkok and tourist destinations from next month.

Thailand's disease control committee has proposed a halving of a two-week hotel isolation requirement for vaccinated arrivals, amid delays in plans to waive quarantine and reopen Bangkok and tourist destinations from next month. Thailand is keen to welcome back foreign visitors, after nearly 18 months of strict entry policies caused a collapse in tourism, a key sector that drew 40 million visitors in 2019. "Reducing the quarantine is not only about tourism, but will help business travel and foreign students," senior health official Opas Karnkawinpong told a news conference, adding tests would also be required. Under the proposal, to be presented to government on Monday, those without vaccination proof would be isolated for 10 days if arriving by air, and 14 days if by land. Authorities this week delayed to November plans to grant vaccinated visitors entry without quarantine, due to the country's low inoculation rate. Only Phuket and Samui islands currently waive quarantine for vaccinated tourists, as part of a pilot scheme. Less than a quarter of the estimated 72 million people living in Thailand have been fully vaccinated. The country is still fighting its most severe wave of infections, which has accounted for about 99% of its 1.5 million cases and 15,884 deaths.

With tourism in doldrums, Thailand seeks to slash Covid quarantine for visitors from two to one week

Pushed on the brink due to the COVID-19 pandemic, especially the tourism industry, the governments of Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam, are mulling to open their borders and public spaces for foreign tourists.

According to Reuters, Vietnam plans to reopen the resort island of Phu Quoc to foreign tourists starting next month. The tourism minister, Nguyen Van Hung, said the pandemic had “seriously hurt” the tourism industry.

The decision comes as only 6.3 per cent of Vietnam’s 98 million people have received at least two shots.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-downgrades-2021-outlook-as-covid-19-hampers-recovery-405958">Thailand downgrades 2021 outlook as COVID-19 hampers recovery</a>

Foreign arrivals to Vietnam slumped from 18 million in 2019, when tourism revenue was $31 billion, or nearly 12% of its gross domestic product, to 3.8 million last year.

Earlier this month, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh conceded that Vietnam was facing a lengthy battle against the coronavirus, which has infected over 5,70,000 people and killed 14,400, so could not just rely on lockdowns and quarantine.

Neighbouring Thailand has also announced its intentions to reopen Bangkok and other major destinations to foreign tourists by October, while hoping to revive its tourism industry, which accounted for more than 11% of the country's GDP in 2019,&nbsp;according to Reuters.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spreads-through-air-vietnam-reports-new-variant-of-coronavirus-388243">'Spreads through air': Vietnam reports new variant of coronavirus</a>

So far, only 22% of the estimated 72 million people living in Thailand have been fully vaccinated, according to local media reports.

Indonesia, which has inoculated more than 16% of its population, has also eased its restrictions, allowing public spaces to reopen, and permitting factories to return to its full capacity.

Foreign tourists might be allowed into certain parts of the country, including the resort island Bali, by October, according to&nbsp;Reuters.

Watch

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thailand-protesters-clash-with-riot-police-over-govts-pandemic-response-404768/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

There are many Southeast Asian nations who have been planning to open their borders as Covid-induced lockdown continue to cripple their economies.

However, there have been concerns among the health activities as the island nations have been struggling to inoculate their population owing to short supply of Covid vaccines, and their over-reliance on Chinese-made vaccines—which showed lower efficacy than those made by Western and Indian companies.

Brazilian trials have shown that Sinovac has about 50% efficacy&nbsp;against symptomatic Covid-19, and 100% effectiveness against severe disease, according to trial data submitted to WHO.

Sinopharm, another vaccine from China, has an efficacy of about 79% for symptomatic and hospitalized disease,&nbsp;according to WHO.

According to&nbsp;Duke University,&nbsp;Thailand has bought more than 40 million doses of the Sinovac drug, while the Philippines and Malaysia have around 20 million each. Cambodia has bought another 16 million.

Meanwhile, Indonesia has bought 15 million doses of the Sinopharm vaccine, while Malaysia has got another 5 million.

Yanzhong Huang, a senior fellow for global health at the US-based Council on Foreign Relations think tank, told CNN that if vaccination rates aren’t high enough with high-efficacy vaccines before restrictions are lifted, health care systems in Southeast Asia could quickly become overwhelmed.

“You're going to see this spike of severe cases then it's going to overwhelm the ICU ... beds, ventilators, there's going to be a shortage capacity challenge,” he was said quoted as saying.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pushed on the brink due to the COVID-19 pandemic, especially the tourism industry, the governments of Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam, are mulling to open their borders and public spaces for foreign tourists.

Pushed on the brink due to the COVID-19 pandemic, especially the tourism industry, the governments of Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam, are mulling to open their borders and public spaces for foreign tourists. According to Reuters, Vietnam plans to reopen the resort island of Phu Quoc to foreign tourists starting next month. The tourism minister, Nguyen Van Hung, said the pandemic had “seriously hurt” the tourism industry. The decision comes as only 6.3 per cent of Vietnam’s 98 million people have received at least two shots. Also read | Thailand downgrades 2021 outlook as COVID-19 hampers recovery Foreign arrivals to Vietnam slumped from 18 million in 2019, when tourism revenue was $31 billion, or nearly 12% of its gross domestic product, to 3.8 million last year. Earlier this month, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh conceded that Vietnam was facing a lengthy battle against the coronavirus, which has infected over 5,70,000 people and killed 14,400, so could not just rely on lockdowns and quarantine. Neighbouring Thailand has also announced its intentions to reopen Bangkok and other major destinations to foreign tourists by October, while hoping to revive its tourism industry, which accounted for more than 11% of the country's GDP in 2019, according to Reuters. Also read | 'Spreads through air': Vietnam reports new variant of coronavirus So far, only 22% of the estimated 72 million people living in Thailand have been fully vaccinated, according to local media reports. Indonesia, which has inoculated more than 16% of its population, has also eased its restrictions, allowing public spaces to reopen, and permitting factories to return to its full capacity. Foreign tourists might be allowed into certain parts of the country, including the resort island Bali, by October, according to Reuters. Watch There are many Southeast Asian nations who have been planning to open their borders as Covid-induced lockdown continue to cripple their economies. However, there have been concerns among the health activities as the island nations have been struggling to inoculate their population owing to short supply of Covid vaccines, and their over-reliance on Chinese-made vaccines—which showed lower efficacy than those made by Western and Indian companies. Brazilian trials have shown that Sinovac has about 50% efficacy against symptomatic Covid-19, and 100% effectiveness against severe disease, according to trial data submitted to WHO. Sinopharm, another vaccine from China, has an efficacy of about 79% for symptomatic and hospitalized disease, according to WHO. According to Duke University, Thailand has bought more than 40 million doses of the Sinovac drug, while the Philippines and Malaysia have around 20 million each. Cambodia has bought another 16 million. Meanwhile, Indonesia has bought 15 million doses of the Sinopharm vaccine, while Malaysia has got another 5 million. Yanzhong Huang, a senior fellow for global health at the US-based Council on Foreign Relations think tank, told CNN that if vaccination rates aren’t high enough with high-efficacy vaccines before restrictions are lifted, health care systems in Southeast Asia could quickly become overwhelmed. “You're going to see this spike of severe cases then it's going to overwhelm the ICU ... beds, ventilators, there's going to be a shortage capacity challenge,” he was said quoted as saying. (With inputs from agencies)

Economies on the brink due to Covid, Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam mulling to reopen borders

In air heavy with monsoonal pressure and discontent, the riot police in Bangkok unleashed rubber bullets and tear gas. Tanat Thanakitamnuay, the scion of a real estate family, stood on a truck, where he had been excoriating Thailand’s leaders for their bungled response to the pandemic.

Then a hard object, perhaps a tear gas canister, struck his right eye, tearing his retina. Tanat, who once supported the 2014 coup that brought Prayuth Chan-ocha, now the prime minister, to power, said the injury August&nbsp;13 cost him his vision in the eye.

“I might be blinded, but now I’m stronger than ever; I see things clearer than ever,” he said. “People knew a long time ago how incompetent this government is. COVID is just more evidence and proof.”

Thailand, which not long ago was seen as a virus-containing wonder, has become yet another example of how authoritarian hubris and a lack of government accountability have fueled the pandemic. This year, more than 12,000 people in Thailand have died of COVID-19, compared to fewer than 100 last year. The economy has been ravaged, with tourism all but nonexistent and manufacturing slowed.

Anger is spreading, and not only in the streets. Opposition lawmakers in parliament tried to pass a vote of no confidence in Prayuth, accusing his government of squandering the monthslong head start Thailand had to fight the coronavirus. That effort failed Saturday, even though some members of the prime minister’s coalition had briefly fanned speculation that they might support his ouster.

This summer’s vaccine rollout, already late, was further hampered by manufacturing delays. A company with no experience making vaccines, whose dominant shareholder is Thailand’s king, was given the contract to produce the AstraZeneca vaccine domestically. The government’s failure to secure adequate imported supplies has made matters worse. Only about 15% of the population is fully vaccinated, and social inequalities have let the young rich leapfrog ahead of older, poorer people.

Anti-government protests, which now occur daily, are growing more desperate, and security crackdowns more aggressive. In August, at least 10 demonstrations were broken up with force. At one, a 15-year-old boy was shot and is now in intensive care. The police have denied firing live ammunition.

“Earlier, people said they were not coming out to protest because of COVID, but now the thinking has changed to, ‘You stay at home, and you will die anyway because of the government’s inability to take care of people,’” said Tosaporn Sererak, a doctor who was once a spokesperson for the government unseated by the 2014 coup.

More than a dozen civil society groups, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, issued a letter Wednesday urging authorities to show restraint.

“We are troubled by the disproportionate response of riot police to provocations by protesters,” read the letter, addressed to Prayuth. “We are also concerned by the arbitrary detention of protest leaders who have recently faced new criminal charges and have been denied bail.”

Prayuth, who led the coup seven years ago as army chief, has concentrated power in his own hands, arguing that enhanced executive powers are needed to fight the pandemic.

He has tried to quash public dissent by instituting a state of emergency and criminalizing certain criticism. Hundreds have been arrested in recent months for sedition, for so-called computer crimes and for criticizing King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun, which is against the law.

A prominent politician was charged with insulting the monarch after he asked why Siam Bioscience, the king’s company, was given the contract to churn out vaccines for Southeast Asia when it had not manufactured them before.

At least a dozen leaders of protests that began last year, calling for Prayuth’s resignation and for reforms to the monarchy, are now locked up, awaiting trial. Some have contracted COVID-19 in prison. On Tuesday, a United Nations official expressed concern that jailed protesters were not receiving adequate medical care.

Sureerat Chiwarak, the mother of Parit Chiwarak, a protest leader, said her son had become infected in an overcrowded Bangkok prison. Parit told his mother that there were far more COVID cases in prison than the official numbers indicated.

“Some people say, ‘Why don’t you surrender? They have your child in their hands. They put him in prison,’” Sureerat said. “No. The kids are fighting for equality. Why do I have to surrender?”

With some of Bangkok’s COVID lockdown measures having been lifted September&nbsp;1, the protest movement is gathering momentum, even if the crowds have not matched the tens of thousands who turned out for rallies last year.

“When the government is authoritarian, they think they can censor the media, they think they can stop the people from protesting,” said Rangsiman Rome, an opposition lawmaker. “But people are still coming out to protest every day, demanding change.”

During last year’s protests, which were peaceful, the riot police largely showed restraint, despite their long history of shooting demonstrators.

Their response this summer has been harsher, with protests often quashed before they can coalesce. The police now regularly deploy rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannons laced with burning chemicals. Protesters respond with their own arsenals, including flamethrowers and slingshots.

Opposition figures say the urge to confront the police during a pandemic is a sign of widespread desperation.

“People who supported the government have also gotten infected, and this makes them rethink and question why they have to suffer like this,” Rangsiman said.

On Aug. 29, two anti-government protests coalesced in Bangkok. The first was a gathering of hundreds of cars and motorcycles. After a period of intense honking, they dispersed.

The second rally, smaller and angrier, formed in a business district. Motorcyclists used paper to cover their license plates and helmets to obscure their faces. Other protesters hid behind balaclavas. No one wanted to speak openly about why they were there.

The tear gas began flowing before dusk, and the police fired streams of purple water, presumably to mark the demonstrators. Low booms reverberated, and smoke filled the air as protesters flung projectiles. As night descended, small fires burned. On Saturday, the riot police set up shipping containers to impede one rally, while a smaller protest erupted into violence.

Tanat, the protester who was partially blinded last month, is a beneficiary of the privilege that has split Thailand into a tiny group of haves and tens of millions of have-nots, a divide that has fed political unrest for years. He said some of his rich friends had also begun attending rallies, hopping on their chauffeurs’ motorcycles to get there rather than being driven in their usual Rolls-Royces or Maybachs.

But most protesters are from the struggling class that has been further impoverished by the pandemic. Nipapon Somnoi said her son, Warit Somnoi, 15, had offered to quit school to help the family, but she would not allow it.

The boy ended up at a protest in mid-August. Video footage, which she cannot bear to watch, shows the moment when a bullet hit his neck and, as a CT scan confirmed, lodged at his spine. The police reiterated that the security forces did not use live ammunition. Nipapon said she did not know what to believe.

Her son has been in a coma for more than two weeks. She worries that because her family is neither rich nor famous, his fate will be forgotten.

“Sometimes I think, one tear gas canister could buy six to eight doses of a good-quality vaccine,” Nipapon said. “The state keeps saying that we are a democracy, but they only listen to their own voice.”

Late last month, she sat at the hospital, caressing her son’s face, asking if he could hear her.

“There were moments when I called his name and saw his eyelids move,” she said. “There were tears seeping out. But I don’t know.”

In air heavy with monsoonal pressure and discontent, the riot police in Bangkok unleashed rubber bullets and tear gas. Tanat Thanakitamnuay, the scion of a real estate family, stood on a truck, where he had been excoriating Thailand’s leaders for their bungled response to the pandemic.

In air heavy with monsoonal pressure and discontent, the riot police in Bangkok unleashed rubber bullets and tear gas. Tanat Thanakitamnuay, the scion of a real estate family, stood on a truck, where he had been excoriating Thailand’s leaders for their bungled response to the pandemic. Then a hard object, perhaps a tear gas canister, struck his right eye, tearing his retina. Tanat, who once supported the 2014 coup that brought Prayuth Chan-ocha, now the prime minister, to power, said the injury August 13 cost him his vision in the eye. “I might be blinded, but now I’m stronger than ever; I see things clearer than ever,” he said. “People knew a long time ago how incompetent this government is. COVID is just more evidence and proof.” Thailand, which not long ago was seen as a virus-containing wonder, has become yet another example of how authoritarian hubris and a lack of government accountability have fueled the pandemic. This year, more than 12,000 people in Thailand have died of COVID-19, compared to fewer than 100 last year. The economy has been ravaged, with tourism all but nonexistent and manufacturing slowed. Anger is spreading, and not only in the streets. Opposition lawmakers in parliament tried to pass a vote of no confidence in Prayuth, accusing his government of squandering the monthslong head start Thailand had to fight the coronavirus. That effort failed Saturday, even though some members of the prime minister’s coalition had briefly fanned speculation that they might support his ouster. This summer’s vaccine rollout, already late, was further hampered by manufacturing delays. A company with no experience making vaccines, whose dominant shareholder is Thailand’s king, was given the contract to produce the AstraZeneca vaccine domestically. The government’s failure to secure adequate imported supplies has made matters worse. Only about 15% of the population is fully vaccinated, and social inequalities have let the young rich leapfrog ahead of older, poorer people. Anti-government protests, which now occur daily, are growing more desperate, and security crackdowns more aggressive. In August, at least 10 demonstrations were broken up with force. At one, a 15-year-old boy was shot and is now in intensive care. The police have denied firing live ammunition. “Earlier, people said they were not coming out to protest because of COVID, but now the thinking has changed to, ‘You stay at home, and you will die anyway because of the government’s inability to take care of people,’” said Tosaporn Sererak, a doctor who was once a spokesperson for the government unseated by the 2014 coup. More than a dozen civil society groups, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, issued a letter Wednesday urging authorities to show restraint. “We are troubled by the disproportionate response of riot police to provocations by protesters,” read the letter, addressed to Prayuth. “We are also concerned by the arbitrary detention of protest leaders who have recently faced new criminal charges and have been denied bail.” Prayuth, who led the coup seven years ago as army chief, has concentrated power in his own hands, arguing that enhanced executive powers are needed to fight the pandemic. He has tried to quash public dissent by instituting a state of emergency and criminalizing certain criticism. Hundreds have been arrested in recent months for sedition, for so-called computer crimes and for criticizing King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun, which is against the law. A prominent politician was charged with insulting the monarch after he asked why Siam Bioscience, the king’s company, was given the contract to churn out vaccines for Southeast Asia when it had not manufactured them before. At least a dozen leaders of protests that began last year, calling for Prayuth’s resignation and for reforms to the monarchy, are now locked up, awaiting trial. Some have contracted COVID-19 in prison. On Tuesday, a United Nations official expressed concern that jailed protesters were not receiving adequate medical care. Sureerat Chiwarak, the mother of Parit Chiwarak, a protest leader, said her son had become infected in an overcrowded Bangkok prison. Parit told his mother that there were far more COVID cases in prison than the official numbers indicated. “Some people say, ‘Why don’t you surrender? They have your child in their hands. They put him in prison,’” Sureerat said. “No. The kids are fighting for equality. Why do I have to surrender?” With some of Bangkok’s COVID lockdown measures having been lifted September 1, the protest movement is gathering momentum, even if the crowds have not matched the tens of thousands who turned out for rallies last year. “When the government is authoritarian, they think they can censor the media, they think they can stop the people from protesting,” said Rangsiman Rome, an opposition lawmaker. “But people are still coming out to protest every day, demanding change.” During last year’s protests, which were peaceful, the riot police largely showed restraint, despite their long history of shooting demonstrators. Their response this summer has been harsher, with protests often quashed before they can coalesce. The police now regularly deploy rubber bullets, tear gas and water cannons laced with burning chemicals. Protesters respond with their own arsenals, including flamethrowers and slingshots. Opposition figures say the urge to confront the police during a pandemic is a sign of widespread desperation. “People who supported the government have also gotten infected, and this makes them rethink and question why they have to suffer like this,” Rangsiman said. On Aug. 29, two anti-government protests coalesced in Bangkok. The first was a gathering of hundreds of cars and motorcycles. After a period of intense honking, they dispersed. The second rally, smaller and angrier, formed in a business district. Motorcyclists used paper to cover their license plates and helmets to obscure their faces. Other protesters hid behind balaclavas. No one wanted to speak openly about why they were there. The tear gas began flowing before dusk, and the police fired streams of purple water, presumably to mark the demonstrators. Low booms reverberated, and smoke filled the air as protesters flung projectiles. As night descended, small fires burned. On Saturday, the riot police set up shipping containers to impede one rally, while a smaller protest erupted into violence. Tanat, the protester who was partially blinded last month, is a beneficiary of the privilege that has split Thailand into a tiny group of haves and tens of millions of have-nots, a divide that has fed political unrest for years. He said some of his rich friends had also begun attending rallies, hopping on their chauffeurs’ motorcycles to get there rather than being driven in their usual Rolls-Royces or Maybachs. But most protesters are from the struggling class that has been further impoverished by the pandemic. Nipapon Somnoi said her son, Warit Somnoi, 15, had offered to quit school to help the family, but she would not allow it. The boy ended up at a protest in mid-August. Video footage, which she cannot bear to watch, shows the moment when a bullet hit his neck and, as a CT scan confirmed, lodged at his spine. The police reiterated that the security forces did not use live ammunition. Nipapon said she did not know what to believe. Her son has been in a coma for more than two weeks. She worries that because her family is neither rich nor famous, his fate will be forgotten. “Sometimes I think, one tear gas canister could buy six to eight doses of a good-quality vaccine,” Nipapon said. “The state keeps saying that we are a democracy, but they only listen to their own voice.” Late last month, she sat at the hospital, caressing her son’s face, asking if he could hear her. “There were moments when I called his name and saw his eyelids move,” she said. “There were tears seeping out. But I don’t know.”

Thai protesters are back, and angrier, as government fumbles on COVID

Claiming to be a replica of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, an under-construction temple complex in north-east Thailand has started a controversy. &nbsp;&nbsp;

As per reports, the Cambodian government looks to send archaeologists and temple architects to inspect if the site is similar to Angkor Wat or not. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Angkor Wat, which is the largest religious structure (temple complex) in the world by land area, is also a national symbol as it is depicted on Cambodia’s flag. &nbsp;

Watch: 'Kabuliwala' worry about their relatives in Kabul

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/kabuliwala-worry-about-their-relatives-in-kabul-409073/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Saying the temple has much broader influences, Thailand authorities and the abbot behind the construction have denied trying to imitate the temple. &nbsp;

The temple is being constructed at the Sihanakhon temple complex in Buriram province. Around 100m baht (£2.25m) have already been spent on the project. &nbsp;

Buriram’s cultural official Khattiya Chaimanee said the design instead reflects the typical features of Khmer stone castles, which could be found across architecture in south Isan region, north-east Thailand. &nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-man-held-for-injecting-blood-through-syringes-in-food-items-in-supermarkets-409191" hreflang="en">British man held for injecting blood through syringes in food items in supermarkets</a>

It also includes the new temple’s Naga Bridge, which is a long walkway crafted in the form of Naga, Chaimanee added. &nbsp;

The design of the temple is not an exact match. “In this temple, the temple clusters are lined up in one row, from the biggest to the smallest, which is completely different to the landscape of Angkor Wat,” said the official.&nbsp;

Claiming to be a replica of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, an under-construction temple complex in north-east Thailand has started a controversy. As per reports, the Cambodian government looks to send archaeologists and temple architects to inspect if the site is similar to Angkor Wat or not.

Claiming to be a replica of Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, an under-construction temple complex in north-east Thailand has started a controversy. As per reports, the Cambodian government looks to send archaeologists and temple architects to inspect if the site is similar to Angkor Wat or not. Angkor Wat, which is the largest religious structure (temple complex) in the world by land area, is also a national symbol as it is depicted on Cambodia’s flag. Watch: 'Kabuliwala' worry about their relatives in Kabul × Saying the temple has much broader influences, Thailand authorities and the abbot behind the construction have denied trying to imitate the temple. The temple is being constructed at the Sihanakhon temple complex in Buriram province. Around 100m baht (£2.25m) have already been spent on the project. Buriram’s cultural official Khattiya Chaimanee said the design instead reflects the typical features of Khmer stone castles, which could be found across architecture in south Isan region, north-east Thailand. Also Read: British man held for injecting blood through syringes in food items in supermarkets It also includes the new temple’s Naga Bridge, which is a long walkway crafted in the form of Naga, Chaimanee added. The design of the temple is not an exact match. “In this temple, the temple clusters are lined up in one row, from the biggest to the smallest, which is completely different to the landscape of Angkor Wat,” said the official.

New Thailand temple claims to imitate Angkor Wat, sparks row

A&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;police chief at the centre of a manhunt over accusations he tortured and suffocated a drug suspect to death surrendered on Thursday.

Thai&nbsp;police raided the Bangkok mansion of 41-year-old Thitisan Utthanaphon -- nicknamed 'Joe Ferrari' -- on Wednesday and found 13 luxury cars, local media reported.&nbsp;

National Police confirmed during a late night press conference Thursday that Thitisan gave himself up and was arrested in Chon Buri province south east of the capital.

"We will show the public that we will not protect wrongdoers," National police chief Suwat Jangyodsuk told reporters, adding that six other officers had also been arrested.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/what-are-internet-recommendation-algorithms-and-how-do-they-affects-users-408781">What are internet recommendation algorithms and how do they affects users?</a>

"Everyone will be treated the same under the legal system. The police organisation must exist with people's trust."

Thitisan, who had served as chief of a district police station in northern Nakhon Sawan province, and some of his colleagues are facing criminal charges after video footage of a death in custody went viral on social media.

The clip shows a group of men -- allegedly including Thitisan -- wrapping a plastic bag around the suspect's head while questioning him on August 5.

The suspect loses consciousness and some officers try to resuscitate him, the footage shows.

"A prosecution fully independent of the&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;police is needed if there is any hope of justice," Human Rights Watch Asia Director Brad Adams said.

"Successive&nbsp;Thai&nbsp;governments have a long history of failing to ensure accountability for even the most ghastly police abuses against people in custody."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-education-to-bitcoin-chinas-season-of-regulatory-crackdown-401448">From education to bitcoin, China's season of regulatory crackdown</a>

Police investigating the case earlier this week said the station chief is suspected of causing the man's death while trying to extract a two million baht ($61,000) payment.

In an unprecedented move during the press conference, Thitisan answered questions from the media over a mobile phone held up to a microphone and denied he had been trying to extort money.

"I did not aim to kill him... It was an accident," Thitisan told the media by phone.

"This is not related to asking for money. I used a black plastic bag because I did not want him to see me but he tore the plastic bag so I had to tie his arms behind him."

Thitisan said he was doing his job and trying to crack down on illegal drugs.

"I accept what I did was not right," he said.

It's unclear when formal charges will be laid.

Later Thitisan -- wearing a green T-shirt and blue hat -- was led out of the Crime Suppression Division and through a large media pack to a waiting police van.

A Thai police chief at the centre of a manhunt over accusations he tortured and suffocated a drug suspect to death surrendered on Thursday. Thai police raided the Bangkok mansion of 41-year-old Thitisan Utthanaphon -- nicknamed 'Joe Ferrari' -- on Wednesday and found 13 luxury cars, local media reported.

A Thai police chief at the centre of a manhunt over accusations he tortured and suffocated a drug suspect to death surrendered on Thursday. Thai police raided the Bangkok mansion of 41-year-old Thitisan Utthanaphon -- nicknamed 'Joe Ferrari' -- on Wednesday and found 13 luxury cars, local media reported. National Police confirmed during a late night press conference Thursday that Thitisan gave himself up and was arrested in Chon Buri province south east of the capital. "We will show the public that we will not protect wrongdoers," National police chief Suwat Jangyodsuk told reporters, adding that six other officers had also been arrested. ALSO READ | What are internet recommendation algorithms and how do they affects users? "Everyone will be treated the same under the legal system. The police organisation must exist with people's trust." Thitisan, who had served as chief of a district police station in northern Nakhon Sawan province, and some of his colleagues are facing criminal charges after video footage of a death in custody went viral on social media. The clip shows a group of men -- allegedly including Thitisan -- wrapping a plastic bag around the suspect's head while questioning him on August 5. The suspect loses consciousness and some officers try to resuscitate him, the footage shows. "A prosecution fully independent of the Thai police is needed if there is any hope of justice," Human Rights Watch Asia Director Brad Adams said. "Successive Thai governments have a long history of failing to ensure accountability for even the most ghastly police abuses against people in custody." ALSO READ | From education to bitcoin, China's season of regulatory crackdown Police investigating the case earlier this week said the station chief is suspected of causing the man's death while trying to extract a two million baht ($61,000) payment. In an unprecedented move during the press conference, Thitisan answered questions from the media over a mobile phone held up to a microphone and denied he had been trying to extort money. "I did not aim to kill him... It was an accident," Thitisan told the media by phone. "This is not related to asking for money. I used a black plastic bag because I did not want him to see me but he tore the plastic bag so I had to tie his arms behind him." Thitisan said he was doing his job and trying to crack down on illegal drugs. "I accept what I did was not right," he said. It's unclear when formal charges will be laid. Later Thitisan -- wearing a green T-shirt and blue hat -- was led out of the Crime Suppression Division and through a large media pack to a waiting police van.

Thai police station chief arrested over death in custody

Thailand&nbsp;on Tuesday decriminalised kratom, a tropical leaf long used as a herbal remedy but which some health regulators around the world have criticised as potentially unsafe.

Kratom -- scientific name Mitragyna speciosa -- is part of the coffee family, used for centuries in Southeast Asia and Papua New Guinea for its pain-relieving and mildly stimulating effects.

It has become increasingly popular in the United States, where the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned against its use, citing risks of addiction and abuse.

The change to Thai law means "the general public will be able to consume and sell kratom legally", government&nbsp;spokesman&nbsp;Anucha&nbsp;Burapachaisri said in a statement.

A&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;Development Research Institute study estimated that decriminalisation will save authorities about 1.69 billion baht ($50 million) in prosecution costs.&nbsp;

Kratom stimulates the same brain receptors as morphine, though with much milder effects, and in&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;it is mainly used in the deep south, where Muslim workers use it for pain relief after manual labour.

It has not been subject to international restrictions, though the World Health Organization announced last month that it was examining whether kratom should be considered for control.

Phil Robertson of Human Rights Watch said the decriminalisation of kratom -- which is native to&nbsp;Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea -- was "welcome, and frankly long overdue".

"The legalisation of kratom in&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;ends a legacy of rights-abusing criminalisation of a drug that has long been used in traditional, rural communities in the country," Robertson told AFP.

Soontorn Rakrong, an adviser to the committee on drafting the new legislation who has long advocated decriminalisation, said farmers in southern&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;could grow kratom as a crop to make up for a fall in rubber prices.

In Indonesia, kratom is legal but its status is under review, with some politicians pushing for it to be banned.

Thai lawmakers have shown some appetite for reforming the kingdom's harsh anti-drug laws in recent years.

In 2019,&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;became the first Southeast Asian country to legalise medical marijuana, and the government has invested in the extraction, distillation and marketing of cannabis oils for use in the health industry.

But overcrowded Thai prisons are still packed with inmates handed long sentences for drugs offences -- possessing just a few methamphetamine pills can earn a decade in jail.

Jeremy Douglas of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime said&nbsp;Thailand&nbsp;is discussing and considering drug rehabilitation and diversion programmes for meth users to ease some pressure off the system and "also because it is more effective".

Thailand on Tuesday decriminalised kratom, a tropical leaf long used as a herbal remedy but which some health regulators around the world have criticised as potentially unsafe.

Thailand on Tuesday decriminalised kratom, a tropical leaf long used as a herbal remedy but which some health regulators around the world have criticised as potentially unsafe. Kratom -- scientific name Mitragyna speciosa -- is part of the coffee family, used for centuries in Southeast Asia and Papua New Guinea for its pain-relieving and mildly stimulating effects. It has become increasingly popular in the United States, where the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned against its use, citing risks of addiction and abuse. The change to Thai law means "the general public will be able to consume and sell kratom legally", government spokesman Anucha Burapachaisri said in a statement. A Thailand Development Research Institute study estimated that decriminalisation will save authorities about 1.69 billion baht ($50 million) in prosecution costs. Kratom stimulates the same brain receptors as morphine, though with much milder effects, and in Thailand it is mainly used in the deep south, where Muslim workers use it for pain relief after manual labour. It has not been subject to international restrictions, though the World Health Organization announced last month that it was examining whether kratom should be considered for control. Phil Robertson of Human Rights Watch said the decriminalisation of kratom -- which is native to Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea -- was "welcome, and frankly long overdue". "The legalisation of kratom in Thailand ends a legacy of rights-abusing criminalisation of a drug that has long been used in traditional, rural communities in the country," Robertson told AFP. Soontorn Rakrong, an adviser to the committee on drafting the new legislation who has long advocated decriminalisation, said farmers in southern Thailand could grow kratom as a crop to make up for a fall in rubber prices. In Indonesia, kratom is legal but its status is under review, with some politicians pushing for it to be banned. Thai lawmakers have shown some appetite for reforming the kingdom's harsh anti-drug laws in recent years. In 2019, Thailand became the first Southeast Asian country to legalise medical marijuana, and the government has invested in the extraction, distillation and marketing of cannabis oils for use in the health industry. But overcrowded Thai prisons are still packed with inmates handed long sentences for drugs offences -- possessing just a few methamphetamine pills can earn a decade in jail. Jeremy Douglas of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime said Thailand is discussing and considering drug rehabilitation and diversion programmes for meth users to ease some pressure off the system and "also because it is more effective".

Thailand legalises kratom, popular plant-based pain reliever

Hundreds of protestors took to the streets of Thailand to demand political reforms and a change in the country’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccination programme</a>.

Local police fired tear gas and rubber bullets on demonstrators on Saturday as they claimed the gatherers had defied Covid restrictions imposed by the government.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-bans-coral-damaging-sunscreens-403116" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-bans-coral-damaging-sunscreens-403116&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi0jqvFwJ_yAhUSyzgGHWH-BZ4QFjAEegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0jD-OruPOIDmxJcfhndf5U" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thailand-bans-coral-damaging-sunscreens-403116" target="_blank">Thailand&nbsp;bans coral-damaging sunscreens</a>

People claim the government has been extremely slow in rolling out coronavirus vaccine shots. They also demanded that the government should start using mRNA shots such as Pfizer and Moderna, rather than China’s Sinovac vaccine shots.

The demonstrators also called for the resignation of Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha, who has been vastly unpopular among the majority of the locals.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/swiss-woman-found-dead-in-thailand-403490" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/swiss-woman-found-dead-in-thailand-403490&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi0jqvFwJ_yAhUSyzgGHWH-BZ4QFjADegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1kz4gDKTexgUOZLXHrjkv-" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swiss-woman-found-dead-in-thailand-403490" target="_blank">Swiss woman found dead in&nbsp;Thailand</a>

While the protestors came out strongly with placards and raised slogans, the attendance of nearly 500 was outnumbered by the police officers present on guard.

Protests broke out in several areas of Thailand. In the southern province of Narathiwat, dozens of people rode out on motorbikes with signs and signaled the three-finger salute.

Hundreds of protestors took to the streets of Thailand to demand political reforms and a change in the country’s vaccination programme. Local police fired tear gas and rubber bullets on demonstrators on Saturday as they claimed the gatherers had defied Covid restrictions imposed by the government.

Hundreds of protestors took to the streets of Thailand to demand political reforms and a change in the country’s vaccination programme. Local police fired tear gas and rubber bullets on demonstrators on Saturday as they claimed the gatherers had defied Covid restrictions imposed by the government. Also read | Thailand bans coral-damaging sunscreens People claim the government has been extremely slow in rolling out coronavirus vaccine shots. They also demanded that the government should start using mRNA shots such as Pfizer and Moderna, rather than China’s Sinovac vaccine shots. The demonstrators also called for the resignation of Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha, who has been vastly unpopular among the majority of the locals. Also read | Swiss woman found dead in Thailand While the protestors came out strongly with placards and raised slogans, the attendance of nearly 500 was outnumbered by the police officers present on guard. Protests broke out in several areas of Thailand. In the southern province of Narathiwat, dozens of people rode out on motorbikes with signs and signaled the three-finger salute.

Thai police fire rubber bullets at protestors demanding better vaccine rollout

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet virtually with Southeast Asian officials every day next week, a senior state department official said on Saturday, as Washington seeks to show the region it’s a US priority while also addressing the crisis in Myanmar.

The top US diplomat will attend virtual meetings for five consecutive days, including annual meetings of the 10 foreign ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and other nations and separate meetings of the Lower Mekong subregion countries Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Thailand.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/singapore-says-asean-aims-to-speed-up-plan-to-end-myanmar-crisis-396602">Singapore says ASEAN aims to speed up plan to end Myanmar crisis</a>

"I think it's a clear demonstration of our commitment to the region," said the official, who briefed Reuters on the condition of anonymity.

In recent years top US officials have not always attended&nbsp;ASEAN&nbsp;meetings and have sometimes sent more junior officials to the region's summits.

The virtual meetings come after the Biden administration in its early days was seen as paying little attention to the region of more than 600 million people, which is often overshadowed by neighbouring economic giant China, which the administration sees as its major foreign policy challenge.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secretary-of-state-antony-blinken-to-attend-asean-meetings-402222/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

But that has been partly addressed by recent visits to the region. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman visited Indonesia, Cambodia and Thailand in May and June, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was in Vietnam and the Philippines this week, and Vice President Kamala Harris is set to visit Singapore and Vietnam.

"That steady flow of high-level engagement is going to pay dividends. It's noticed," the official said, adding that countries in the region "notice when we don't show up and that's when you start hearing some complaining maybe about not taking them seriously or taking them for granted."

The official said that donations of COVID-19 vaccines to the region had been a "game changer in terms of how our image is perceived."

On Sunday, the United States shipped 3 million doses of the Moderna <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">COVID-19 vaccine</a> to Vietnam and it has sent doses to other Southeast Asian countries too, but an agreement it reached in March with Japan and Australia and India to provide a billion doses to the region stalled due to an Indian export ban

By mid-next week the United States will have donated 23 million doses to countries in the region, which is experiencing a surge of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a> with vaccination rates well below countries in the West, the official said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-army-ruler-pledges-elections-asean-cooperation-in-speech-six-months-after-coup-402105">Myanmar army ruler pledges elections, ASEAN cooperation in speech six months after coup</a>

But none of those doses have gone to Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, where military generals staged a coup on Feb. 1 and detained elected leaders including Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, sparking sanctions from Washington and other Western capitals.

The meetings next week will see Blinken in the same virtual meetings as representatives of Myanmar’s military government, but the official said rather than bestowing legitimacy on those officials, this was an opportunity to get messages to the military government.

"We're not prepared to walk away from&nbsp;ASEAN&nbsp;because of the bad behavior of a group of generals in Burma," the official said, adding that US officials were also engaging with the National Unity Government that opposes the military government there.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet virtually with Southeast Asian officials every day next week, a senior state department official said on Saturday, as Washington seeks to show the region it’s a US priority while also addressing the crisis in Myanmar.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will meet virtually with Southeast Asian officials every day next week, a senior state department official said on Saturday, as Washington seeks to show the region it’s a US priority while also addressing the crisis in Myanmar. The top US diplomat will attend virtual meetings for five consecutive days, including annual meetings of the 10 foreign ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and other nations and separate meetings of the Lower Mekong subregion countries Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam and Thailand. Also read | Singapore says ASEAN aims to speed up plan to end Myanmar crisis "I think it's a clear demonstration of our commitment to the region," said the official, who briefed Reuters on the condition of anonymity. In recent years top US officials have not always attended ASEAN meetings and have sometimes sent more junior officials to the region's summits. The virtual meetings come after the Biden administration in its early days was seen as paying little attention to the region of more than 600 million people, which is often overshadowed by neighbouring economic giant China, which the administration sees as its major foreign policy challenge. But that has been partly addressed by recent visits to the region. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman visited Indonesia, Cambodia and Thailand in May and June, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin was in Vietnam and the Philippines this week, and Vice President Kamala Harris is set to visit Singapore and Vietnam. "That steady flow of high-level engagement is going to pay dividends. It's noticed," the official said, adding that countries in the region "notice when we don't show up and that's when you start hearing some complaining maybe about not taking them seriously or taking them for granted." The official said that donations of COVID-19 vaccines to the region had been a "game changer in terms of how our image is perceived." On Sunday, the United States shipped 3 million doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to Vietnam and it has sent doses to other Southeast Asian countries too, but an agreement it reached in March with Japan and Australia and India to provide a billion doses to the region stalled due to an Indian export ban By mid-next week the United States will have donated 23 million doses to countries in the region, which is experiencing a surge of the coronavirus with vaccination rates well below countries in the West, the official said. Also read | Myanmar army ruler pledges elections, ASEAN cooperation in speech six months after coup But none of those doses have gone to Myanmar, formerly known as Burma, where military generals staged a coup on Feb. 1 and detained elected leaders including Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi, sparking sanctions from Washington and other Western capitals. The meetings next week will see Blinken in the same virtual meetings as representatives of Myanmar’s military government, but the official said rather than bestowing legitimacy on those officials, this was an opportunity to get messages to the military government. "We're not prepared to walk away from ASEAN because of the bad behavior of a group of generals in Burma," the official said, adding that US officials were also engaging with the National Unity Government that opposes the military government there.

US top diplomat Blinken to court Southeast Asia in virtual meetings next week

<div>
<div>There's a new way for people to get good luck charms of karmic fortune, a colourful collage featuring the face of a revered Thai monk, all available digitally.</div>

Recently, non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have been booming in the art world, from popular internet memes to original art. In major auction houses, some NFTs fetch millions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sothebys-sells-first-nft-that-sparked-a-craze-389642">Sotheby's sells first NFT that sparked a craze</a>

Taking advantage of this latest fad, Ekkaphong&nbsp;Khemthong&nbsp;launched these "CryptoAmulets". Thailand has a wide market for talismans, with many people collecting them.&nbsp;

Khemthong an amulet collector himself, says that he has been searching for ways of introducing amulets to foreigners and the world.

It's a common pastime in Buddhist-majority Thailand to collect amulets and other small religious trinkets, and Bangkok has a market that exclusively caters to those who sell these lucky items.

A well-respected monk can bless them, increasing their value by thousands of dollars.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/edward-snowdens-nft-artwork-sells-for-over-54-mn-378159">Edward Snowden's NFT artwork sells for over $5.4 mn</a>&nbsp;

Even though CryptoAmulets are digital, Eckapong wanted them to be blessed like a physical talisman, which is why he contacted a highly respected abbot in northern Thailand named Luang Pu Heng.&nbsp;

In recent years, the monk has emerged as a symbol of success in business, and he is a symbol of respect and the world would do well to know of him, says Ekkapong.

The amulets, which display a serene image of his face, were blessed by Luang Pu Heng at a ceremony last month.&nbsp;

The 95-year-old monk doesn't really understand the concept of NFTs. Daye Chan, a Singaporean developer says that it was a challenge explaining the concept to the monk. They had to tell the monk that it is just like blessing photos.

Additionally, crypto art eliminates the usual doubts of authenticity surrounding talismans sold in markets, he said.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tim-berners-lees-nft-of-world-wide-web-source-code-sold-for-54-million-395074">Tim Berners-Lee’s NFT of World Wide Web source code sold for $5.4 million</a>

All the records could be lost and these physical items could be easily forged, says Chan, whereas in the case of the digital amulet, people can still access the records a century later.

In NFTs, transactions are recorded from the moment they are created on a digital ledger called the blockchain.&nbsp;

On the CryptoAmulets website pictures of amulets can be seen, with each token, having different inscriptions like "lucky", "rich" or "fortunate", written in Thai.&nbsp;

These coins are priced in ethereum, the world's second-largest cryptocurrency after bitcoin, where they are currently trading for between $46 and $1,840.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/artist-paks-creations-fetch-168-million-in-first-nft-sale-at-sothebys-377689">Artist Pak's creations fetch $16.8 million in first NFT sale at Sotheby's</a>

However, in the wake of Sunday's deadline to purchase tokens, only 1,500 out of 8,000 have been sold, and most token buyers were Thais.

(With inputs from agencies)
</div>

There's a new way for people to get good luck charms of karmic fortune, a colourful collage featuring the face of a revered Thai monk, all available digitally. Recently, non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have been booming in the art world, from popular internet memes to original art.

There's a new way for people to get good luck charms of karmic fortune, a colourful collage featuring the face of a revered Thai monk, all available digitally. Recently, non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have been booming in the art world, from popular internet memes to original art. In major auction houses, some NFTs fetch millions. Also read | Sotheby's sells first NFT that sparked a craze Taking advantage of this latest fad, Ekkaphong Khemthong launched these "CryptoAmulets". Thailand has a wide market for talismans, with many people collecting them. Khemthong an amulet collector himself, says that he has been searching for ways of introducing amulets to foreigners and the world. It's a common pastime in Buddhist-majority Thailand to collect amulets and other small religious trinkets, and Bangkok has a market that exclusively caters to those who sell these lucky items. A well-respected monk can bless them, increasing their value by thousands of dollars. Also read | Edward Snowden's NFT artwork sells for over $5.4 mn Even though CryptoAmulets are digital, Eckapong wanted them to be blessed like a physical talisman, which is why he contacted a highly respected abbot in northern Thailand named Luang Pu Heng. In recent years, the monk has emerged as a symbol of success in business, and he is a symbol of respect and the world would do well to know of him, says Ekkapong. The amulets, which display a serene image of his face, were blessed by Luang Pu Heng at a ceremony last month. The 95-year-old monk doesn't really understand the concept of NFTs. Daye Chan, a Singaporean developer says that it was a challenge explaining the concept to the monk. They had to tell the monk that it is just like blessing photos. Additionally, crypto art eliminates the usual doubts of authenticity surrounding talismans sold in markets, he said. Also read | Tim Berners-Lee’s NFT of World Wide Web source code sold for $5.4 million All the records could be lost and these physical items could be easily forged, says Chan, whereas in the case of the digital amulet, people can still access the records a century later. In NFTs, transactions are recorded from the moment they are created on a digital ledger called the blockchain. On the CryptoAmulets website pictures of amulets can be seen, with each token, having different inscriptions like "lucky", "rich" or "fortunate", written in Thai. These coins are priced in ethereum, the world's second-largest cryptocurrency after bitcoin, where they are currently trading for between $46 and $1,840. Also read | Artist Pak's creations fetch $16.8 million in first NFT sale at Sotheby's However, in the wake of Sunday's deadline to purchase tokens, only 1,500 out of 8,000 have been sold, and most token buyers were Thais. (With inputs from agencies)

Thailand enters the NFT market with 'CryptoAmulets'

Thai health ministry on Thursday said that it had proposed new travel curbs alongwith tighter restrictions in high-risk areas in order to contain COVID-19 cases. The country reported a daily record of 75 deaths from coronavirus.

Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha is due to consider the new restrictions in a meeting on Friday.

"We may need to impose tougher restriction to limit travel, stop group activities, close more facilities and take other measures that are necessary," Prayuth said, adding a decision would be announced after the COVID-19 task force meeting.

Health ministry has proposed measures to limit people's travel from their home and curb on inter-provincial travel. The ministry has also proposed closing non-essential venues and areas that attract crowds.

The rules would be in place for 14 days and would cover the Bangkok metropolitan area and "buffer zones", Kiatiphum said, without elaborating.

"This has similar intensity as April 2020," he said referring to lockdown measures last year that included a nationwide curfew.

Currently, Thailand has in place measures in "high-risk zones", including Bangkok and surrounding provinces, to close malls early and prohibit dining in at restaurants, but they have not been able to halt an acceleration of infections in the past month.

The health ministry has also been expanding hospital capacity in Bangkok including a plan to convert the newly built terminal at Suvarnabhumi International Airport into a field hospital with 5,000 beds by August.

Thailand's COVID-19 task force on Thursday reported 7,058 new coronavirus cases, taking the total number in the country to 308,230. The country has recorded 2,462 fatalities since the pandemic started last year.

(With inputs from agencies)

Thai health ministry on Thursday said that it had proposed new travel curbs alongwith tighter restrictions in high-risk areas in order to contain COVID-19 cases.

Thai health ministry on Thursday said that it had proposed new travel curbs alongwith tighter restrictions in high-risk areas in order to contain COVID-19 cases. The country reported a daily record of 75 deaths from coronavirus. Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha is due to consider the new restrictions in a meeting on Friday. "We may need to impose tougher restriction to limit travel, stop group activities, close more facilities and take other measures that are necessary," Prayuth said, adding a decision would be announced after the COVID-19 task force meeting. Health ministry has proposed measures to limit people's travel from their home and curb on inter-provincial travel. The ministry has also proposed closing non-essential venues and areas that attract crowds. The rules would be in place for 14 days and would cover the Bangkok metropolitan area and "buffer zones", Kiatiphum said, without elaborating. "This has similar intensity as April 2020," he said referring to lockdown measures last year that included a nationwide curfew. Currently, Thailand has in place measures in "high-risk zones", including Bangkok and surrounding provinces, to close malls early and prohibit dining in at restaurants, but they have not been able to halt an acceleration of infections in the past month. The health ministry has also been expanding hospital capacity in Bangkok including a plan to convert the newly built terminal at Suvarnabhumi International Airport into a field hospital with 5,000 beds by August. Thailand's COVID-19 task force on Thursday reported 7,058 new coronavirus cases, taking the total number in the country to 308,230. The country has recorded 2,462 fatalities since the pandemic started last year. (With inputs from agencies)

Thailand mulls tighter restrictions as Covid deaths climb

Google took down two Google Maps documents on Monday that had listed the names and addresses of hundreds of Thai activists, who were accused by royalists of opposing the monarchy, the technology company said. 
 
Thai royalist activist Songklod 'Pukem' Chuenchoopol said he and a team of 80 volunteers had created the maps and planned to report everyone named on them to police on accusations of insulting the monarchy. 
 
A spokesperson for Alphabet's Google said by email 'the issue is now fixed', and noted: "We have clear policies about what's acceptable for user generated My Maps content. We remove user generated maps that violate our policies." 
 
A version of one of the maps included the names and addresses of nearly 500 people, many of them students, together with their photos in university or high school uniforms. It had received over 350,000 views. 
 
The faces of those named had been covered by black squares with the number 112, in reference to the article under the country's criminal code, which makes insulting or defaming the monarchy punishable by up to 15 years in prison. 
 
Neither map could be accessed on late Monday. 
 
Songklod said that he and the team of volunteers sought to highlight those they accused of breaking that law. 
 
"When each of us sees something offensive posted on social media, we put it on the map," he said. Describing it as a 'psychological' warfare operation, Songklod said the aim was to dissuade people from online criticism of the monarchy. 
 
Youth-led protests that began last year brought unprecedented criticism of the monarchy and calls for its reform both on the streets and online. 
 
The government did not immediately respond to comment on the removal of the Google Maps or the content they contained. 
 
Songklod, 54, a retired army captain and prominent right-wing activist, said he considered the operation targeting opponents of the monarchy a 'massive success' despite the removal of the maps. 
 
The royalist activist said the content in them had come from public research. 
 
Human rights groups and critics of the establishment said the maps included the private data and addresses of hundreds of people and could put them at risk of violence. 
 
"I started to get panicked messages from young people in Thailand who had been doxxed in a royalist document on Google Maps accusing them of being anti-monarchy," said Andrew MacGregor Marshall, a Scotland-based critic of the monarchy and one of the earliest to highlight the existence of the maps. 
 
"It’s clear that young Thai people who just want democracy are facing worsening risks."

(With inputs from agencies)

Google took down two Google Maps documents on Monday that had listed the names and addresses of hundreds of Thai activists, who were accused by royalists of opposing the monarchy, the technology company said.

Google took down two Google Maps documents on Monday that had listed the names and addresses of hundreds of Thai activists, who were accused by royalists of opposing the monarchy, the technology company said. Thai royalist activist Songklod 'Pukem' Chuenchoopol said he and a team of 80 volunteers had created the maps and planned to report everyone named on them to police on accusations of insulting the monarchy. A spokesperson for Alphabet's Google said by email 'the issue is now fixed', and noted: "We have clear policies about what's acceptable for user generated My Maps content. We remove user generated maps that violate our policies." A version of one of the maps included the names and addresses of nearly 500 people, many of them students, together with their photos in university or high school uniforms. It had received over 350,000 views. The faces of those named had been covered by black squares with the number 112, in reference to the article under the country's criminal code, which makes insulting or defaming the monarchy punishable by up to 15 years in prison. Neither map could be accessed on late Monday. Songklod said that he and the team of volunteers sought to highlight those they accused of breaking that law. "When each of us sees something offensive posted on social media, we put it on the map," he said. Describing it as a 'psychological' warfare operation, Songklod said the aim was to dissuade people from online criticism of the monarchy. Youth-led protests that began last year brought unprecedented criticism of the monarchy and calls for its reform both on the streets and online. The government did not immediately respond to comment on the removal of the Google Maps or the content they contained. Songklod, 54, a retired army captain and prominent right-wing activist, said he considered the operation targeting opponents of the monarchy a 'massive success' despite the removal of the maps. The royalist activist said the content in them had come from public research. Human rights groups and critics of the establishment said the maps included the private data and addresses of hundreds of people and could put them at risk of violence. "I started to get panicked messages from young people in Thailand who had been doxxed in a royalist document on Google Maps accusing them of being anti-monarchy," said Andrew MacGregor Marshall, a Scotland-based critic of the monarchy and one of the earliest to highlight the existence of the maps. "It’s clear that young Thai people who just want democracy are facing worsening risks." (With inputs from agencies)

Google takes down maps targeting hundreds of Thais accused of opposing king

A woman in Thailand was woken up to loud voices crashing and banging in the early hours of Saturday.

Ratchadawan Puengprasoppon recognised that the voices were coming from the kitchen. When she reached the kitchen, she saw an elephant poking its head through the kitchen wall, searching for food.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/how-saving-tasmanian-devils-meant-sentencing-little-penguins-to-death-on-maria-island-392931" hreflang="en">How saving Tasmanian Devils meant sentencing Little Penguins to death on Maria Island</a>

The elephant is named Boonchuay and lives in Thailand’s Kaeng Krachan national park. When Ratchadawan Puengprasoppon entered the kitchen, she saw the elephant’s trunk knocking out drawers, cooking pans and other things.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
📺 Elephant breaks into kitchen in Thailand looking for snacks <a href="https://t.co/pdyvHrxWfb">https://t.co/pdyvHrxWfb</a> 👨🏻‍💻 Likeado en YouTube 👨🏻‍💻
— Diego de la Cruz Salas (@cruzpe) <a href="https://twitter.com/cruzpe/status/1406953683468881920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 21, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Spotting elephants in kitchens is becoming increasingly common now in these areas as these large wild animals, apparently, like scouting kitchens on days of local markets.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/earth-has-a-heartbeat-and-nobody-knows-what-causes-it-392975" hreflang="en">Earth has a 'heartbeat' and nobody knows what causes it</a>

"They come to visit quite often. They always come when there is the local market because they can smell food," said Itthipon Thaimonkol, the park’s superintendent.

This is not the first time Boonchuay has taken such a hike. He had, earlier too, paid a visit to Ratchadawan’s kitchen once and had caused damage up to £1,140 (50,000 baht).

A woman in Thailand was woken up to loud voices crashing and banging in the early hours of Saturday. Ratchadawan Puengprasoppon recognised that the voices were coming from the kitchen.

A woman in Thailand was woken up to loud voices crashing and banging in the early hours of Saturday. Ratchadawan Puengprasoppon recognised that the voices were coming from the kitchen. When she reached the kitchen, she saw an elephant poking its head through the kitchen wall, searching for food. Also read | How saving Tasmanian Devils meant sentencing Little Penguins to death on Maria Island The elephant is named Boonchuay and lives in Thailand’s Kaeng Krachan national park. When Ratchadawan Puengprasoppon entered the kitchen, she saw the elephant’s trunk knocking out drawers, cooking pans and other things. 📺 Elephant breaks into kitchen in Thailand looking for snacks https://t.co/pdyvHrxWfb 👨🏻‍💻 Likeado en YouTube 👨🏻‍💻 — Diego de la Cruz Salas (@cruzpe) June 21, 2021 × Spotting elephants in kitchens is becoming increasingly common now in these areas as these large wild animals, apparently, like scouting kitchens on days of local markets. Also read | Earth has a 'heartbeat' and nobody knows what causes it "They come to visit quite often. They always come when there is the local market because they can smell food," said Itthipon Thaimonkol, the park’s superintendent. This is not the first time Boonchuay has taken such a hike. He had, earlier too, paid a visit to Ratchadawan’s kitchen once and had caused damage up to £1,140 (50,000 baht).

Elephant in the room? Thailand local has unexpected dinner guest

Thailand is concerned about the violence in many parts of Myanmar and wants to see the implementation of steps agreed by Southeast Asian leaders with the military junta to help end the turmoil since the February&nbsp;1 coup, the foreign ministry said on Sunday.

Myanmar's junta has shown little sign of heeding the five-point 'consensus' agreed among the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in April - which calls for an end to violence, political talks and the naming of a regional special envoy.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/asean-envoys-meet-myanmar-junta-leader-to-press-for-dialogue-389555">ASEAN envoys meet Myanmar junta leader to press for dialogue</a>

"We have been following developments in Myanmar closely with much concern, especially incidents of violence in many parts of the country," foreign ministry spokesperson Tanee Sangrat said in a statement.

He reiterated a call for an end to the violence, the release of all detainees and the "concrete implementation of the Five-Point Consensus" as soon as possible.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/clashes-spread-to-myanmars-ayeyarwady-delta-several-killed-389631">Clashes spread to Myanmar's Ayeyarwady delta, several killed</a>

The junta has failed to impose control since seizing power from elected leader Aug San Suu Kyi, who is among more than 4,500 people detained since the coup. At least 847 have been killed, a rights group says. The army disputes that figure.

Meanwhile, daily protests against the military have evolved in parts of Myanmar into armed insurrections while decade old ethnic conflicts have flared anew.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-shadow-government-urges-rohingya-to-fight-against-military-junta-389473">Myanmar: Shadow government urges Rohingya to fight against military junta</a>

Opponents of the junta have voiced frustration at the lack of tough action by ASEAN and say the meeting of two representatives of the group with junta leader Min Aung Hlaing on Friday gave him greater legitimacy but brought no benefit.

Thailand has a longer border with Myanmar than any other country and fears the conflict could bring a flood of refugees. Its government is itself led by a former army chief who seized power in a coup before holding elections.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/lawyer-for-myanmars-suu-kyi-worried-over-representation-for-secrets-case-389389">Lawyer for Myanmar's Suu Kyi worried over representation for secrets case</a>

"Much of what Thailand has done may not have been made public as we believe that quiet and discreet diplomacy between neighbours would be more effective and in line with traditional Thai diplomacy," Tanee said.

Thailand is concerned about the violence in many parts of Myanmar and wants to see the implementation of steps agreed by Southeast Asian leaders with the military junta to help end the turmoil since the February 1 coup, the foreign ministry said on Sunday.

Thailand is concerned about the violence in many parts of Myanmar and wants to see the implementation of steps agreed by Southeast Asian leaders with the military junta to help end the turmoil since the February 1 coup, the foreign ministry said on Sunday. Myanmar's junta has shown little sign of heeding the five-point 'consensus' agreed among the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in April - which calls for an end to violence, political talks and the naming of a regional special envoy. Also Read | ASEAN envoys meet Myanmar junta leader to press for dialogue "We have been following developments in Myanmar closely with much concern, especially incidents of violence in many parts of the country," foreign ministry spokesperson Tanee Sangrat said in a statement. He reiterated a call for an end to the violence, the release of all detainees and the "concrete implementation of the Five-Point Consensus" as soon as possible. Also Read | Clashes spread to Myanmar's Ayeyarwady delta, several killed The junta has failed to impose control since seizing power from elected leader Aug San Suu Kyi, who is among more than 4,500 people detained since the coup. At least 847 have been killed, a rights group says. The army disputes that figure. Meanwhile, daily protests against the military have evolved in parts of Myanmar into armed insurrections while decade old ethnic conflicts have flared anew. Also Read | Myanmar: Shadow government urges Rohingya to fight against military junta Opponents of the junta have voiced frustration at the lack of tough action by ASEAN and say the meeting of two representatives of the group with junta leader Min Aung Hlaing on Friday gave him greater legitimacy but brought no benefit. Thailand has a longer border with Myanmar than any other country and fears the conflict could bring a flood of refugees. Its government is itself led by a former army chief who seized power in a coup before holding elections. Also Read | Lawyer for Myanmar's Suu Kyi worried over representation for secrets case "Much of what Thailand has done may not have been made public as we believe that quiet and discreet diplomacy between neighbours would be more effective and in line with traditional Thai diplomacy," Tanee said.

Thailand concerned at Myanmar violence

A severely ill hunger-striking Thai democracy activist released from prison vowed Wednesday to keep fighting for reform to the country's monarchy, defying his bail conditions.

Parit Chiwarak, who goes by the nickname "Penguin", was held in pre-trial detention for nearly 100 days for multiple royal defamation charges.&nbsp;

He is one of several protest leaders hit with such charges after massive demonstrations calling for changes to the kingdom's powerful royal family.

Have a look |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/paint-tomatoes-and-eggs-thailand-marches-to-demand-release-of-penguin-382289">Paint, tomatoes and eggs — Thailand marches to demand release of Penguin</a>

To protest his detention, Penguin had gone on a hunger strike for 57 days — losing 12 kilogrammes (26 pounds) — before he was transferred to a hospital in late April to monitor his deteriorating health.

A Thai criminal court granted the university student bail on Tuesday under strict conditions, including that he doesn't leave the country or engage in activities that "dishonour the monarchy".

But Penguin remained defiant on Wednesday in a message posted to social media platform Line.

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-protest-leaders-go-on-trial-for-sedition-royal-insults-370708" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-protest-leaders-go-on-trial-for-sedition-royal-insults-370708&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiMlong8sPwAhUnwTgGHerWBigQFjABegQIBxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2oJ9pYesxm0s9ahWMc1W0Z" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-protest-leaders-go-on-trial-for-sedition-royal-insults-370708" target="_blank">Thai protest leaders go on trial for sedition, royal insults</a>

"For me, the fight for monarchy reform will continue," he wrote, adding that the call does not dishonour the institution.

"The fighting for democracy will continue with strength. Our fight is based on truth and there is no power bigger than truth."

The 22-year-old had left prison the night before wearing a T-shirt emblazoned with the words "monarchy reform" and flashed a three-finger salute — a symbol of resistance — out the ambulance window.

Criticism of the monarchy remains taboo due to harsh lese majeste laws that carry penalties of up to 15 years in jail per charge.&nbsp;

Penguin faces 20 lese majeste charges for his prominent role in last year's demonstrations against the Thai government -- which at its peak drew tens of thousands to the streets.

Another student leader, Panusaya Sithijirawattanakul, more commonly known by her nickname Rung, was freed from custody last week and is facing nine royal defamation charges.

She was outside the Khlong Prem prison Tuesday night, awaiting Parit's release alongside a large Bangkok media scrum.

On Wednesday, she announced on Facebook that she had tested positive for coronavirus.

"I just received the result of Covid test and found that I was infected," she wrote, apologising if she put people at risk and outlining a timeline of her activities.

Another high-profile protest leader, human rights lawyer Anon Numpa, who is facing 12 royal defamation charges, has been unable to apply for bail while he recovers from Covid-19 in hospital.

The Thai Department of Corrections on Wednesday confirmed 1,040 coronavirus cases at the Central Women Correctional Institution where Panusaya was in custody.

The department said there were also 1,795 infections at the Khlong Prem men's maximum-security prison in Bangkok.&nbsp;

The infected prisoners are being treated at on-site prison health clinics and at field and external hospitals.

"Every correctional institution has strict measures with a bubble and seal approach," the department said.

A severely ill hunger-striking Thai democracy activist released from prison vowed Wednesday to keep fighting for reform to the country's monarchy, defying his bail conditions.

A severely ill hunger-striking Thai democracy activist released from prison vowed Wednesday to keep fighting for reform to the country's monarchy, defying his bail conditions. Parit Chiwarak, who goes by the nickname "Penguin", was held in pre-trial detention for nearly 100 days for multiple royal defamation charges. He is one of several protest leaders hit with such charges after massive demonstrations calling for changes to the kingdom's powerful royal family. Have a look | Paint, tomatoes and eggs — Thailand marches to demand release of Penguin To protest his detention, Penguin had gone on a hunger strike for 57 days — losing 12 kilogrammes (26 pounds) — before he was transferred to a hospital in late April to monitor his deteriorating health. A Thai criminal court granted the university student bail on Tuesday under strict conditions, including that he doesn't leave the country or engage in activities that "dishonour the monarchy". But Penguin remained defiant on Wednesday in a message posted to social media platform Line. Also read | Thai protest leaders go on trial for sedition, royal insults "For me, the fight for monarchy reform will continue," he wrote, adding that the call does not dishonour the institution. "The fighting for democracy will continue with strength. Our fight is based on truth and there is no power bigger than truth." The 22-year-old had left prison the night before wearing a T-shirt emblazoned with the words "monarchy reform" and flashed a three-finger salute — a symbol of resistance — out the ambulance window. Criticism of the monarchy remains taboo due to harsh lese majeste laws that carry penalties of up to 15 years in jail per charge. Penguin faces 20 lese majeste charges for his prominent role in last year's demonstrations against the Thai government -- which at its peak drew tens of thousands to the streets. Another student leader, Panusaya Sithijirawattanakul, more commonly known by her nickname Rung, was freed from custody last week and is facing nine royal defamation charges. She was outside the Khlong Prem prison Tuesday night, awaiting Parit's release alongside a large Bangkok media scrum. On Wednesday, she announced on Facebook that she had tested positive for coronavirus. "I just received the result of Covid test and found that I was infected," she wrote, apologising if she put people at risk and outlining a timeline of her activities. Another high-profile protest leader, human rights lawyer Anon Numpa, who is facing 12 royal defamation charges, has been unable to apply for bail while he recovers from Covid-19 in hospital. The Thai Department of Corrections on Wednesday confirmed 1,040 coronavirus cases at the Central Women Correctional Institution where Panusaya was in custody. The department said there were also 1,795 infections at the Khlong Prem men's maximum-security prison in Bangkok. The infected prisoners are being treated at on-site prison health clinics and at field and external hospitals. "Every correctional institution has strict measures with a bubble and seal approach," the department said.

Hunger-striking Thai protest leader vows to keep fighting for royal reform

India appreciated the gift of 200 oxygen cylinders and 10 oxygen concentrators by Thailand as well as the donation by the Indian community of another 100 oxygen cylinders and 60 oxygen concentrators, said Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Saturday.

"A valued maritime partner in our extended neighborhood. Appreciate the gift of 200 oxygen cylinders and 10 oxygen concentrators from our ASEAN partner Thailand. Also, value donation by the Indian community in of another 100 oxygen cylinders and 60 oxygen concentrators," Bagchi said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🇮🇳🇹🇭 
A valued maritime partner in our extended neighbourhood. Appreciate gift of 200 oxygen cylinders &amp; 10 oxygen concentrators from our ASEAN partner Thailand. Also value donation by Indian community in 🇹🇭 of another 100 oxygen cylinders &amp; 60 oxygen concentrators. <a href="https://t.co/CdRMzBwq7D">pic.twitter.com/CdRMzBwq7D</a>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1390897619652595718?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 8, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Earlier this month Arindam Bagchi welcomed the gift of 15 oxygen concentrators from the ASEAN partner and friend Thailand. He thanked the Indian community who have donated another 15 oxygen concentrators.

Several countries have come forward to help India as the country fights the second wave of Covid-19.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/first-shipment-of-covid-19-aid-from-us-arrives-in-india-381556/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

India has received medical help and assistance from the US, UK, Canada, Germany, France, in the form of oxygen concentrators, ventilators, raw materials for vaccines, PPE kits. 318 oxygen concentrators were received from the US on Tuesday.

Canada offered 10 million USD to Indian Red Cross to facilitate essential goods and medical equipment to India.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadas-ontario-province-to-send-3000-ventilators-to-india-amid-covid-crisis-382606">Canada's Ontario province to send 3,000 ventilators to India amid Covid crisis</a>

India reported 4,01,078 fresh COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, according to the union health ministry. With this, the country has recorded over 4 lakh daily cases for the third consecutive day.

The cumulative number of cases in the country has now gone up to 2,18,92,676.&nbsp;

India appreciated the gift of 200 oxygen cylinders and 10 oxygen concentrators by Thailand as well as the donation by the Indian community of another 100 oxygen cylinders and 60 oxygen concentrators, said Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Saturday.

India appreciated the gift of 200 oxygen cylinders and 10 oxygen concentrators by Thailand as well as the donation by the Indian community of another 100 oxygen cylinders and 60 oxygen concentrators, said Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Saturday. "A valued maritime partner in our extended neighborhood. Appreciate the gift of 200 oxygen cylinders and 10 oxygen concentrators from our ASEAN partner Thailand. Also, value donation by the Indian community in of another 100 oxygen cylinders and 60 oxygen concentrators," Bagchi said. 🇮🇳🇹🇭 A valued maritime partner in our extended neighbourhood. Appreciate gift of 200 oxygen cylinders & 10 oxygen concentrators from our ASEAN partner Thailand. Also value donation by Indian community in 🇹🇭 of another 100 oxygen cylinders & 60 oxygen concentrators. pic.twitter.com/CdRMzBwq7D — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) May 8, 2021 × Earlier this month Arindam Bagchi welcomed the gift of 15 oxygen concentrators from the ASEAN partner and friend Thailand. He thanked the Indian community who have donated another 15 oxygen concentrators. Several countries have come forward to help India as the country fights the second wave of Covid-19. India has received medical help and assistance from the US, UK, Canada, Germany, France, in the form of oxygen concentrators, ventilators, raw materials for vaccines, PPE kits. 318 oxygen concentrators were received from the US on Tuesday. Canada offered 10 million USD to Indian Red Cross to facilitate essential goods and medical equipment to India. Also read | Canada's Ontario province to send 3,000 ventilators to India amid Covid crisis India reported 4,01,078 fresh COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, according to the union health ministry. With this, the country has recorded over 4 lakh daily cases for the third consecutive day. The cumulative number of cases in the country has now gone up to 2,18,92,676.

India appreciates gift of 200 oxygen cylinders, 10 oxygen concentrators by Thailand: MEA

Five Thai activists were indicted on Wednesday on charges of attempted violence against the queen during a pro-democracy demonstration last year, when a royal motorcade encountered dozens of protesters.&nbsp;

Their lawyer Poonsuk Poonsukcharoen said prosecutors indicted the five under a section of the law that carries a minimum sentence of 16 years in prison for violence or attempted violence against the queen, heir-apparent or regent.&nbsp;

"I did not have such intentions, nor was I trying to do so. I've reaffirmed these facts over the past few months," said one of the accused, Bunkueanun 'Francis' Paothong, 21.&nbsp;

More serious breaches of the same law can result in life imprisonment, or a death sentence if an act is likely to endanger their life.&nbsp;

Others include Suranat Panprasert, 35, a coordinator for a youth group, Ekachai Hongkangwan, 45, and two others. All have denied the charges and are seeking bail.&nbsp;

The case centres on an encounter at the height of anti-government demonstrations last year when Queen Suthida's convoy passed through a group of protesters on October 14.&nbsp;

Video from the incident showed police pushing protesters away from the queen's car.&nbsp;

The court granted the five bail without conditions, Poonsuk, said with the next hearing scheduled for April 26.&nbsp;

"I'm very grateful that the court granted us bail, but our fight has not stopped. We will have to fight these accusations," Bunkueanun said.&nbsp;

Anti-government protesters that emerged last year demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha and broke longstanding taboos by openly calling for reforms of the powerful monarchy.&nbsp;

The Royal Palace has not commented directly on the protests since they began last year.&nbsp;

There are currently 19 Thai youth activists in jail having been denied bail. They face a litany of charges, including sedition, while 12 of them are also charged with lese majeste, or insulting the monarchy, a crime punishable by up to 15 years in prison.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Five Thai activists were indicted on Wednesday on charges of attempted violence against the queen during a pro-democracy demonstration last year, when a royal motorcade encountered dozens of protesters.

Five Thai activists were indicted on Wednesday on charges of attempted violence against the queen during a pro-democracy demonstration last year, when a royal motorcade encountered dozens of protesters. Their lawyer Poonsuk Poonsukcharoen said prosecutors indicted the five under a section of the law that carries a minimum sentence of 16 years in prison for violence or attempted violence against the queen, heir-apparent or regent. "I did not have such intentions, nor was I trying to do so. I've reaffirmed these facts over the past few months," said one of the accused, Bunkueanun 'Francis' Paothong, 21. More serious breaches of the same law can result in life imprisonment, or a death sentence if an act is likely to endanger their life. Others include Suranat Panprasert, 35, a coordinator for a youth group, Ekachai Hongkangwan, 45, and two others. All have denied the charges and are seeking bail. The case centres on an encounter at the height of anti-government demonstrations last year when Queen Suthida's convoy passed through a group of protesters on October 14. Video from the incident showed police pushing protesters away from the queen's car. The court granted the five bail without conditions, Poonsuk, said with the next hearing scheduled for April 26. "I'm very grateful that the court granted us bail, but our fight has not stopped. We will have to fight these accusations," Bunkueanun said. Anti-government protesters that emerged last year demanded the resignation of Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha and broke longstanding taboos by openly calling for reforms of the powerful monarchy. The Royal Palace has not commented directly on the protests since they began last year. There are currently 19 Thai youth activists in jail having been denied bail. They face a litany of charges, including sedition, while 12 of them are also charged with lese majeste, or insulting the monarchy, a crime punishable by up to 15 years in prison. (With inputs from agencies)

Thai prosecutors indict five for queen's motorcade blockage  

About 3,000 villagers from Myanmar's southeastern Karen state fled to Thailand on Sunday following air attacks by the army on an area held by an ethnic armed group, an activist group and local media said.&nbsp;

Myanmar’s military launched air strikes on five areas in Mutraw district, near the border, including a displacement camp, the Karen Women’s Organization said.&nbsp;

"At the moment, villagers are hiding in the jungle as more than 3,000 crossed to Thailand to take refuge," a statement from the group said.&nbsp;

Thai PBS reported about 3,000 had reached Thailand.&nbsp;

Thai authorities did not immediately respond to requests for comment.&nbsp;

At least two soldiers from the Karen National Union were killed, said David Eubank, founder of the Free Burma Rangers, a relief organisation.&nbsp;

"We haven’t had air strikes there for over 20 years," Eubank said. "Second, these were at night, so the capability of the Burma military has increased with the help of Russia and China and other nations, and that is deadly."&nbsp;

In an air attack by the military on Saturday, at least three civilians were killed in a village controlled by the KNU, a civil society group said. The militia earlier said it had overrun an army post near the border, killing 10 people.&nbsp;

The air assaults are the most significant attack for years in the region. The KNU had signed a ceasefire agreement in 2015 but tensions have surged after the military overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government on February 1.&nbsp;

The KNU and the Restoration Council of Shan State, also based on the Thai border, have condemned the takeover and announced their support for public resistance.&nbsp;

KNU says it has been sheltering hundreds of people, who have fled central Myanmar amid mounting violence in recent weeks.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

About 3,000 villagers from Myanmar's southeastern Karen state fled to Thailand on Sunday following air attacks by the army on an area held by an ethnic armed group, an activist group and local media said.

About 3,000 villagers from Myanmar's southeastern Karen state fled to Thailand on Sunday following air attacks by the army on an area held by an ethnic armed group, an activist group and local media said. Myanmar’s military launched air strikes on five areas in Mutraw district, near the border, including a displacement camp, the Karen Women’s Organization said. "At the moment, villagers are hiding in the jungle as more than 3,000 crossed to Thailand to take refuge," a statement from the group said. Thai PBS reported about 3,000 had reached Thailand. Thai authorities did not immediately respond to requests for comment. At least two soldiers from the Karen National Union were killed, said David Eubank, founder of the Free Burma Rangers, a relief organisation. "We haven’t had air strikes there for over 20 years," Eubank said. "Second, these were at night, so the capability of the Burma military has increased with the help of Russia and China and other nations, and that is deadly." In an air attack by the military on Saturday, at least three civilians were killed in a village controlled by the KNU, a civil society group said. The militia earlier said it had overrun an army post near the border, killing 10 people. The air assaults are the most significant attack for years in the region. The KNU had signed a ceasefire agreement in 2015 but tensions have surged after the military overthrew Aung San Suu Kyi's civilian government on February 1. The KNU and the Restoration Council of Shan State, also based on the Thai border, have condemned the takeover and announced their support for public resistance. KNU says it has been sheltering hundreds of people, who have fled central Myanmar amid mounting violence in recent weeks. (With inputs from agencies)

'Thousands flee to Thailand after Myanmar army's air strikes on villages'  

More than 30 civilians and police were injured in anti-government protests in Thailand, an emergency medical centre said on Sunday after police used water cannon, teargas and rubber bullets to disperse the rally the night before.

Video circulated on social media showed police hitting and stomping on people with others fleeing from police in riot gear and some abandoning their motorcycles. Another video showed people taking refuge from teargas in a McDonald`s restaurant.

Thirteen police officers and 20 others were injured, the Erawan Medical Centre said.

Police said on Sunday their actions were in accordance with international standards and that 20 protesters were arrested for breaking public gathering laws and insulting the monarchy.

"Violence originated from the protesters` side and police have to defend the law and protect national treasures," the deputy head of the Bangkok police, Piya Tavichai, told reporters.

Protesters disagreed.

"Violence came from the police first, using tear gas and water cannons before protesters did anything," said activist Rukchanok Srinork, 27, who was at the rally.

"They have helmets, shields, crowd control training, if there is a stone, raise your shields."

Portraits of the king were defaced at Saturday night`s protests, which drew well over 1,000 people.

An anti-government protest this month saw over 20 protesters injured.

Thailand`s youth protest movement emerged last year and has posed the biggest challenge for the government of Prime Minster Prayuth Chan-ocha, a retired army general who seized power in 2014 from an elected government.

Protesters say he engineered a process that preserved the military-monarchy establishment and kept him in power after a 2019 election. Prayuth and his supporters reject that assertion.

The protesters have demanded reform of the monarchy, breaking a traditional taboo, saying the constitution drafted by the military after the 2014 coup gives the king too much power.

The Royal Palace, which declined to comment on Sunday, has avoided commenting directly on the protests. The government has said criticism of the king is unlawful and inappropriate.

More than 30 civilians and police were injured in anti-government protests in Thailand, an emergency medical centre said on Sunday after police used water cannon, teargas and rubber bullets to disperse the rally the night before.

More than 30 civilians and police were injured in anti-government protests in Thailand, an emergency medical centre said on Sunday after police used water cannon, teargas and rubber bullets to disperse the rally the night before. Video circulated on social media showed police hitting and stomping on people with others fleeing from police in riot gear and some abandoning their motorcycles. Another video showed people taking refuge from teargas in a McDonald`s restaurant. Thirteen police officers and 20 others were injured, the Erawan Medical Centre said. Police said on Sunday their actions were in accordance with international standards and that 20 protesters were arrested for breaking public gathering laws and insulting the monarchy. "Violence originated from the protesters` side and police have to defend the law and protect national treasures," the deputy head of the Bangkok police, Piya Tavichai, told reporters. Protesters disagreed. "Violence came from the police first, using tear gas and water cannons before protesters did anything," said activist Rukchanok Srinork, 27, who was at the rally. "They have helmets, shields, crowd control training, if there is a stone, raise your shields." Portraits of the king were defaced at Saturday night`s protests, which drew well over 1,000 people. An anti-government protest this month saw over 20 protesters injured. Thailand`s youth protest movement emerged last year and has posed the biggest challenge for the government of Prime Minster Prayuth Chan-ocha, a retired army general who seized power in 2014 from an elected government. Protesters say he engineered a process that preserved the military-monarchy establishment and kept him in power after a 2019 election. Prayuth and his supporters reject that assertion. The protesters have demanded reform of the monarchy, breaking a traditional taboo, saying the constitution drafted by the military after the 2014 coup gives the king too much power. The Royal Palace, which declined to comment on Sunday, has avoided commenting directly on the protests. The government has said criticism of the king is unlawful and inappropriate.

Dozens of Thai protesters injured after rally near king's palace

Pro-democracy protesters in Thailand clashed with police outside Bangkok's Grand Palace on Saturday. Thai police used water cannons and rubber bullets after demonstrators broke through a barricade of shipping containers to demand reforms to the kingdom's unassailable monarchy.&nbsp;

It was the latest night of unrest since Thailand's pro-democracy movement kicked off in July, calling for an overhaul of Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha's administration and a rewrite of a military-scripted constitution.

But reforms to monarchy has been the most controversial demand. The protesters are also demanding the abolition of draconian royal defamation laws

A wall of cargo containers, two containers tall, had been erected in Sanam Luang, a historic field in front of the palace, to keep protesters away but, just an hour into the rally, they used ropes to yank some of the top-row boxes down, allowing a small opening.

"You're breaking the law!" said the police over an announcer as protesters used ropes to pull the lower containers out of place.

Once protesters were able to get through, they threw Molotov cocktails at dozens of police who stood by with water cannon trucks about 100 metres (300 feet) away, using the jets to prevent protesters from coming closer.

"Release our friends!" protesters shouted, referring to prominent leaders who have been detained since earlier this year.

Police chased demonstrators away from the area, firing rubber bullets continuously directly at them, according to AFP reporters on the ground.

Most protesters had dispersed by 8:30 pm (1330 GMT) but hard-core activists lingered on.

(With AFP inputs)

Pro-democracy protesters in Thailand clashed with police outside Bangkok's Grand Palace on Saturday. Thai police used water cannons and rubber bullets after demonstrators broke through a barricade of shipping containers to demand reforms to the kingdom's unassailable monarchy.

Pro-democracy protesters in Thailand clashed with police outside Bangkok's Grand Palace on Saturday. Thai police used water cannons and rubber bullets after demonstrators broke through a barricade of shipping containers to demand reforms to the kingdom's unassailable monarchy. It was the latest night of unrest since Thailand's pro-democracy movement kicked off in July, calling for an overhaul of Premier Prayut Chan-O-Cha's administration and a rewrite of a military-scripted constitution. But reforms to monarchy has been the most controversial demand. The protesters are also demanding the abolition of draconian royal defamation laws A wall of cargo containers, two containers tall, had been erected in Sanam Luang, a historic field in front of the palace, to keep protesters away but, just an hour into the rally, they used ropes to yank some of the top-row boxes down, allowing a small opening. "You're breaking the law!" said the police over an announcer as protesters used ropes to pull the lower containers out of place. Once protesters were able to get through, they threw Molotov cocktails at dozens of police who stood by with water cannon trucks about 100 metres (300 feet) away, using the jets to prevent protesters from coming closer. "Release our friends!" protesters shouted, referring to prominent leaders who have been detained since earlier this year. Police chased demonstrators away from the area, firing rubber bullets continuously directly at them, according to AFP reporters on the ground. Most protesters had dispersed by 8:30 pm (1330 GMT) but hard-core activists lingered on. (With AFP inputs)

Thai protesters clash with police at Grand Palace

Thailand's anti-money laundering authorities said on Wednesday, they have seized or frozen more than 330 million baht (USD 11 million) worth of assets in a sting operation against a suspected wildlife trafficking ring.&nbsp;

The March 12 operation targeted Boonchai Bach, a Vietnamese and Thai citizen, who was arrested in 2018 but later got his conviction for trafficking in rhino horns and other contraband reversed.&nbsp;

Thai law gives police wide latitude to seize property that authorities suspect comes from illegal activities. They said they confiscated a hotel, vehicles, land and other assets and have frozen Boonchai's bank accounts.&nbsp;

It was not possible to immediately reach Boonchai for comment.&nbsp;

A senior Thai police official, Lt Col Teerapong Dulayawjian, said the Anti-Money Laundering Office was working with prosecutors in investigating the suspected laundering of profits from trading in endangered species.&nbsp;

Thailand and neighbouring Laos are known to be major hubs for such trafficking, orchestrated by organised criminal syndicates.&nbsp;

Boonchai's acquittal two years ago was viewed as a setback for efforts to crack down on the illicit trade in wildlife, which is viewed as a big risk factor in the development of illnesses that jump from animals to humans, such as Covid-19.&nbsp;

After the earlier case against him was reversed, authorities followed up with the investigation into his wealth.&nbsp;

Authorities worked with the Freeland Foundation, an international group that monitors wildlife trafficking, in conducting the sting operation.&nbsp;

In raids beginning early on March 12, police said they searched several locations in northern Thailand's Nakhon Phanom and Chaiyaphum provinces seizing cash, Buddhist amulets, firearms and wild animals.&nbsp;

Steve Galster, chair of the Freeland Foundation, said the action marked a breakthrough in efforts to hinder the illegal wildlife trade.&nbsp;

It's like they cut off an arm and broke a leg, of the suspected trafficking ring, he said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Thailand's anti-money laundering authorities said on Wednesday, they have seized or frozen more than 330 million baht (USD 11 million) worth of assets in a sting operation against a suspected wildlife trafficking ring.

Thailand's anti-money laundering authorities said on Wednesday, they have seized or frozen more than 330 million baht (USD 11 million) worth of assets in a sting operation against a suspected wildlife trafficking ring. The March 12 operation targeted Boonchai Bach, a Vietnamese and Thai citizen, who was arrested in 2018 but later got his conviction for trafficking in rhino horns and other contraband reversed. Thai law gives police wide latitude to seize property that authorities suspect comes from illegal activities. They said they confiscated a hotel, vehicles, land and other assets and have frozen Boonchai's bank accounts. It was not possible to immediately reach Boonchai for comment. A senior Thai police official, Lt Col Teerapong Dulayawjian, said the Anti-Money Laundering Office was working with prosecutors in investigating the suspected laundering of profits from trading in endangered species. Thailand and neighbouring Laos are known to be major hubs for such trafficking, orchestrated by organised criminal syndicates. Boonchai's acquittal two years ago was viewed as a setback for efforts to crack down on the illicit trade in wildlife, which is viewed as a big risk factor in the development of illnesses that jump from animals to humans, such as Covid-19. After the earlier case against him was reversed, authorities followed up with the investigation into his wealth. Authorities worked with the Freeland Foundation, an international group that monitors wildlife trafficking, in conducting the sting operation. In raids beginning early on March 12, police said they searched several locations in northern Thailand's Nakhon Phanom and Chaiyaphum provinces seizing cash, Buddhist amulets, firearms and wild animals. Steve Galster, chair of the Freeland Foundation, said the action marked a breakthrough in efforts to hinder the illegal wildlife trade. It's like they cut off an arm and broke a leg, of the suspected trafficking ring, he said. (With inputs from agencies)

USD 11 million seized in wildlife trafficking sting: Thailand

thailand-0

Thailand, News on Thailand, stories on Thailand, articles on Thailand, Thailand stories at Wion, Thailand news, Thailand latest news

thailand 0