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Actually the UK has a higher percentage of inmates in private lock ups. Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Private_prison

From Khaosod English HUA HIN — A Royal Thai Police aircraft crashed into the sea shortly after takeoff in Hua Hin on Friday morning, killing six officers, one of whom died in the afternoon at a hospital, officials said. The Viking DHC-6 Twin Otter went down approximately 100 meters offshore while conducting a test flight in preparation for parachute training exercises in the popular beach resort town. “The plane was performing a test flight to prepare for parachute training exercises in Hua Hin district before it crashed around 8 a.m.,” Royal Thai Police spokesperson Archayon Kraithong confirmed. Continues with video https://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2025/04/25/police-plane-with-mechanical-issues-crashes-off-hua-hin-six-dead/

From Pattaya Mail Thailand’s tourism industry is facing one of its steepest downturns in recent years, with the Chinese market — once its most lucrative — in sharp decline. Mr. Sittiwat Chiwarattanaporn, Chief Advisor of the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), said the current drop in Chinese tourist arrivals is comparable to the 2018 Phuket boat tragedy, which triggered a major slump in Chinese travel to Thailand. As of April 16, only 5,833 Chinese tourists entered Thailand — a drastic drop from the pre-pandemic daily average of 15,000 to 20,000. This marks one of the lowest levels in recent memory. A combination of negative economic factors, including U.S.-China trade tensions, and China’s domestic tourism promotion policies, have heavily impacted outbound travel. Even under optimistic projections, Thailand may only be able to attract 10,000 to 15,000 Chinese tourists per day during the remainder of 2025. This would bring the total annual arrivals from China to just 4.2–5.5 million, falling significantly short of Thailand’s original target of 7 million, and even below last year’s total of 6.7 million. Continues at https://www.pattayamail.com/news/tourism-crisis-deepens-chinese-arrivals-plummet-to-just-5000-a-day-post-songkran-foreign-visitors-drop-nearly-20-498778

Find new evidence in high-rise collapse From Bangkok Post The State Audit Office (SAO) has issued a statement explaining the decision to reduce the thickness of the walls of the elevator shafts at its new 30-storey building, which allegedly contributed to the structure's collapse during an earthquake. PKW joint venture was contracted by the SAO to supervise the project. A joint venture between Forum Architect Co and Meinhardt (Thailand) was contracted to design the building. The construction contractor found that the size of the walls, combined with other decoration materials, would reduce the width of the corridor, which could violate a ministerial regulation issued by the Interior Ministry and the Building Control Act. This prompted the contractor to seek advice from the construction supervisor and the construction designer. The designer recommended that the shaft's walls near the corridor be reduced from 30cm to 25cm with steel reinforcements added, the SAO said. The change was verified by the supervisor and the designer, and the revised blueprint was sent back to the contractor. The change was also endorsed by the Auditor-General and the State Audit Commission, according to the statement. Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong previously said the decision to trim the walls of the shafts could have contributed to the building's collapse. Pol Col Tawee said investigators are concerned about the shaft walls, as they are significantly thinner than those built in comparable buildings. Typically, he said, the walls should be about 60 centimetres thick, but those at the SAO building were only 25cm. Continues at https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3010760/elevator-shaft-walls-now-in-focus

TBH, I'm getting annoyed with the Tourism Authority's objective of chasing after "high-value" tourists. I acknowledge that all nations prefer the wealthy but the facts don't support Thailand's quest. Thailand rocketed into the leading tourist destination in SE Asia over the last few decades by offering relatively low-cost vacations to tourists from across the globe. Hotels and eateries in all prices ranges sprung up to accommodate them. If the Tourism Authority was to realize its goal, however, who'd be left to book those low and mid-priced hotels or eat and drink at the vendors or beer gardens that cater to the average international tourist. White Lotus was a great promotional series but those depicted hardly represent the average visitor who have made Thailand the success that it has become.. ================ From Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has reported strong growth in long-haul international arrivals in early 2025, as it steps up efforts to attract high-value travellers in line with national tourism strategy — driving toward its year-end target of 39 million visitors and 2.23 trillion Baht in revenue. From 1 January to 21 April 2025, Thailand welcomed over 11.35 million visitors, according to the Immigration Bureau. Long-haul markets showed particularly strong year-on-year growth: the United Kingdom – 423,324 (+20.61%), Germany – 407,378 (+13.14%), France – 364,262 (+22.65%), the United States – 379,472 (+12.83%), Australia – 255,420 (+16.85%), Israel – 131,958 (+97.43%), Italy – 114,808 (+28.6%), the Netherlands – 94,074 (+17.88%), Spain – 52,629 (+17.75%), and Saudi Arabia – 43,356 (+15.26%). This performance has been driven in part by expanded airline seat capacity through TAT’s Airline Focus strategy, which partners with international carriers to increase flight frequencies and launch new routes. Recent additions include Alitalia (Italy–Bangkok), Condor (Frankfurt–Bangkok/Phuket), Evelop Airlines (Madrid–Bangkok), and Air Calédonie International (Paris–Bangkok), alongside frequency increases from Iberojet (Madrid–Bangkok) and Norse Atlantic Airways (London Gatwick–Bangkok). Forward bookings from long-haul markets remain strong for April to June, with continued momentum expected from the UK, Italy, Spain, Israel, and Russia. TAT is sharpening its promotional focus on high-potential, high-spending source markets to drive sustainable growth. Priority areas include long-haul markets across Europe (the UK, Germany, Italy, Israel, Sweden, Switzerland, Norway, Austria), the Americas (Argentina, Brazil), Oceania (Australia), the Middle East (Saudi Arabia, Kuwait), and Africa (South Africa), as well as key short-haul markets including Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, India, and Sri Lanka. Targeted efforts are being made to attract high-value tourists through health and wellness experiences, including Thai massage, spas, yoga, wellness cuisine, and holistic programmes — especially popular among travellers from Europe, ASEAN, and the Middle East. The yacht and superyacht segment is being developed for European, Australian, and Asia-Pacific markets, while sports and entertainment tourism — including golf, marathons, trail running, Muay Thai, diving, and cycling — is being actively promoted in Russia, Europe, the US, Australia, China, South Korea, and Japan. Additionally, the digital nomad and workation markets are being targeted in popular destinations such as Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Phuket, Ko Samui, Hua Hin, and Krabi. Continues at https://www.tatnews.org/2025/04/thailand-targets-high-value-travellers-to-fuel-long-haul-tourism-growth/

Then it certainly makes more sense to do it there. Apple store (at those prices) is clearly not interested in doing repairs but wants to entice owners to upgrade to new phone.

23,000 baht ($685) is about the price of the Apple iPhone 15. What is the 3,300 baht quote for? In any case, I'm sure there are shops in MBK that can do it at cost-effective price.

From The Thaiger Thailand has introduced new rules governing how liquids, gels, and aerosols (LGAs) can be carried in hand luggage, tightening security measures at airports nationwide. The new regulations, which came into effect on Tuesday, April 22, were published in the Royal Gazette and supersede those introduced in 2019. “These updated rules, issued by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), aim to enhance airport security protocols,” said Air Chief Marshal Manat Chavanaprayoon, CAAT’s Director. The directive mandates that all LGAs, whether carried by passengers, crew, or airport staff, must undergo thorough screening before being allowed on aircraft or into restricted airport zones. Under the new regulations, LGAs are defined as items ranging from beverages and sauces to cosmetics, toiletries, and even pressurised containers like sprays and foams. Items with both solid and liquid components, such as mascara and lip balm, also fall under the new rules. The key change is the size limitation. Individual containers of LGAs cannot exceed 100 millilitres, and they must be stored in a container of the same size, even if the container is not full. Passengers can carry multiple items, provided the total volume does not exceed 1 litre per person. In addition, these items must be placed in a single, transparent, re-sealable plastic bag, which must be presented separately during security checks. This bag does not count toward a passenger’s carry-on luggage allowance. If advanced screening technology, such as X-ray scanners capable of detecting LGAs, is used, the screening process may be streamlined. There are exemptions, particularly for passengers requiring medication, baby food or milk, and medically necessary dietary items, all of which must be properly documented and subject to security screening. Duty-free purchases of LGAs are allowed, as long as they are sealed in tamper-evident bags and accompanied by proof of purchase. Transfer and transit passengers will also need to present their duty-free items for inspection, reported The Nation. To ensure widespread awareness of the new rules, airports are required to prominently display the updated guidelines in all public areas, including check-in zones and security checkpoints. Airport operators may also enforce stricter measures based on individual security assessments. As Thailand’s airports tighten their security, travellers are advised to check regulations at both their departure and destination airports to avoid any disruptions. https://thethaiger.com/news/national/new-liquid-and-gel-rules-enforced-at-thailand-airports

From The BBC K-pop group Just B's member Bain has revealed to fans he is "proud to be part of the LGBT community" - a rare move in an industry known for its tight control over artists' behaviour, where stars typically keep details of their personal lives private, particularly relationships. The star, 23, is now among only a handful of K-pop artists who have come out publicly. Bain made the announcement in front of fans while performing a solo at a concert in Los Angeles on Tuesday night. The moment was met with loud cheers from the crowd, according to videos circulating on social media. "To anyone out there who's part of the LGBT community, or still figuring it out - this is for you guys," Bain, whose real name is Song Byeong-hee, said in a video posted on his social media after the concert. "You are seen, you are loved, and you were born this way," he added, before launching into a performance of Born This Way by pop icon Lady Gaga, whom he referred to as "my queen". His bandmates welcomed the announcement. Just B member Siwoo said he cried while watching Bain's performance. "I know how hard it was for him, and that made me want to cry more," he said, according to Korean media outlet News1. The band's fans have shown their support as well. "We love you so much and are so proud of you for being yourself," reads a top-liked comment under his Instagram post. "You are so loved. So proud to be your fan. Be proud of who you are," another fan wrote. Formed in 2021, Just B is a six-member act that has released five EPs and multiple singles. Coming out remains extremely rare in South Korea's highly-pressurised entertainment industry. While homosexuality is not illegal in the country, it remains taboo, and same-sex marriage is not legally recognised. A 2022 Human Rights Watch report described discrimination against LGBT people in South Korea as "pervasive". https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cd6jzd6g9nwo

From The Nation Governor Chadchart Sittipunt has launched a major initiative to redefine Bangkok's future, urging a shift from a city known for its "buzz" to one celebrated for its "liveability." Speaking at a key planning seminar, he highlighted the need for a strategic overhaul to address the city's persistent inefficiencies and improve the quality of life for all residents. The Governor emphasised that while Bangkok attracts tourists with its vibrant atmosphere, it lags behind regional rivals like Singapore and Kuala Lumpur in terms of liveability. He criticised the city's notorious traffic congestion and the impact of corruption, calling for a more efficient and effective administration. "We must move beyond day-to-day operations and adopt a clear, strategic vision," Mr. Chadchart told attendees. "Bangkok is a thrilling city to visit, but it is not yet a truly liveable city, and this is a major problem." Continues at https://www.nationthailand.com/thailand/bangkok/40049193

From The Nation Ignite Venture has acquired the Montien Hotel precinct in Silom, a significant deal encompassing the 500-room Montien Hotel Surawong Bangkok, the 179-unit Surawong Residences, the Montien Shopping Mall, and car parking facilities. The transaction marks a new phase for the 58-year-old Montien Hotel, situated on a 10-rai (around 3.95 acres) leasehold plot secured from The Thai Red Cross Society. The accumulated lease value for the 25-year term is reported to be over 2.5 billion baht. Ignite Venture, backed by Jade Partners and the Aura Group, brings together expertise in capital investment, property, and hotel management. Thunyatorn Nattatum, managing partner at Jade Partners, stated the aim is to "celebrate its heritage while preparing it for the next generation." Panon Leelamanit, a director at Ignite Venture, highlighted the resilience of Thailand's hotel and tourism sector. Tantakitt Co., Ltd., the previous leaseholder, will retain a minority stake in Ignite Venture. Conduit House, a Thai hotel operator, has been appointed to manage the hotel and associated properties. https://www.nationthailand.com/business/corporate/40049200 ======== Snapped this photo during last trip, showing huge gathering of tuk-tuks opposite entrance to Montien Hotel. They were waiting to whisk tour group to evening attractions in Krung Thep.

Ban double-decker buses from dangerous routes From Bangkok Post Double-decker buses have been prohibited from plying potentially dangerous routes after a fatal crash on a highway in Prachin Buri, according to the Ministry of Transport. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit said on Wednesday that he had instructed the Department of Land Transport (DLT) to investigate the deadly crash involving a double-decker bus and a lorry on Highway 304 in Na Di district. The crash, which occurred on a steep downhill stretch, caused a fire that killed seven people and injured more than 40 on Monday at around 1.30am. Initial findings suggest the driver was driving too fast for the road conditions and was unable to slow down in time, leading to the crash. The impact damaged an area where electrical wiring was located, causing a short circuit and fire Continues at https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/3009976/double-decker-buses-banned-on-risky-routes

From Pattaya News Suspect arrested for robbing tourist at gunpoint A Russian tourist recently fell victim to a robbery in the heart of Pattaya when a suspect, armed with a firearm, threatened the tourist and demanded money. Fearing for the safety of her 3-year-old daughter, the tourist handed over 3,000 Baht to the suspect. The incident took place in Soi Phra Tamnak 6, and the suspect fled the scene shortly after. After days of investigation, the Pattaya Police apprehended the suspect on April 22, at 3:36 PM. The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Ukrit Mangkhung (also known as Mac Kolai), was arrested near the entrance of Soi Beach Road 13/4. Police recovered a homemade firearm from him. The arrest was made with the collaboration of local police, the Pattaya City Police Investigation Division, and Tourism Police. Ukrit’s criminal history revealed prior convictions for drug-related offenses and robbery. He had recently been released from prison before committing this latest crime. https://www.pattayamail.com/news/suspect-arrested-for-robbing-russian-tourist-at-gunpoint-in-pattaya-498673

From Pattaya News A 34-year-old Indian tourist was slashed by a homeless man in Pattaya while waiting at a car repair shop, raising fresh concerns over public safety in the city. At 3:06 PM on April 22nd, the Sawang Boriboon Rescue Center in Pattaya received a report of a stabbing incident in Pattaya. Rescue teams quickly coordinated with Pattaya Police and rushed to the scene. There, responders found a 34-year-old Indian tourist, later identified as Mr. Shrutikkumar, in a state of shock and fear. He had suffered a knife wound to his right palm and slash marks on his body. Rescue workers provided first aid before transporting him to the hospital. The suspect had fled the scene, but a 30 cm knife was recovered nearby and kept as evidence. Mr. Adisak, 51, owner of the nearby auto repair shop, told authorities that the tourist had been straddling his motorbike while waiting for repairs. Suddenly, a man who appeared to be homeless approached with a knife and began slashing the tourist. The two had no prior interaction or argument. After the attack, the suspect casually walked away. Incidents involving homeless individuals attacking tourists have become increasingly frequent in Pattaya, causing harm to visitors and tarnishing the city’s world-class image. Despite previous crackdowns by relevant agencies, such attacks continue to occur. Just one day prior a Taiwanese tourist waiting for a food delivery order was reportedly attacked by a homeless man with a stick in Pattaya as we reported here. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/04/23/homeless-man-attacks-indian-tourist-with-knife-in-pattaya-broad-daylight-assault/

From CNBC Twenty years ago today when Jawed Karim uploaded a grainy 19-second clip titled “Me at the Zoo” to his new platform, YouTube, he ushered in a new era in online video. The video of Karim visiting the San Diego Zoo was the first to appear on YouTube, the video platform founded by him, Steve Chen and Chad Hurley. The trio sold the service to Google in 2006 for $1.65 billion, and in the nearly two decades since, YouTube has evolved from a simple video-sharing site into a global media juggernaut. If it was a stand-alone business, YouTube would be worth between $475 billion and $550 billion, according to analysts at MoffettNathanson. YouTube is the second-most visited website in the world, according to Similarweb, behind only Google, and more than 20 trillion videos -- including music, Shorts, podcasts and more -- have been uploaded to the site as of April, YouTube said Wednesday. Continues at https://www.cnbc.com/2025/04/23/google-youtube-disney-tiktok.html

@macaroni21 your memory is good. Rooms at Avarin's first floor rooms at its big shop are spacious with shower en suite. Additional rooms on second floor accessible by easily negotiated stairway.

From Pattaya News Foodpanda, a leading food delivery platform in Thailand, will cease operations on May 23, 2025, after 13 years, as announced by its parent company, German based Delivery Hero SE. The decision follows intense competition, financial losses, and failed sale talks with buyers like Grab and Meituan. Despite early success since launching in 2012, Foodpanda struggled with a 23% market share against Grab’s 50% and reported losses of 522 million baht in 2023. Past controversies and rider pay disputes further strained its reputation. The closure will impact customers, riders, and vendors, with Delivery Hero promising support for payments and transitions. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/04/23/foodpanda-to-exit-thailand-by-may-23-2025-amid-market-challenges/

From The Thaiger Thailand’s once-booming Chinese tourism stream has turned into a trickle, with industry chiefs warning of a full-blown crisis as daily arrivals plunge to record lows and desperate calls mount for an urgent fix to restore trust. Chinese tourist arrivals to Thailand have nosedived to their lowest point in 2025, with just 5,833 visitors recorded on April 16, a far cry from the usual 15,000 to 20,000. One top industry figure has dubbed the slump a “crisis,” as the kingdom scrambles to win back its biggest tourism market. Sisdivachr Cheewarattanaporn, advisory chairman of the Association of Thai Travel Agents, didn’t mince his words. “This is the worst crisis for the Chinese market in recent years.” Continues at https://thethaiger.com/news/business/chinese-tourism-to-thailand-hits-2025-low-with-only-5833-arrivals

Thailand already has difficulty attracting enough bodies to fill existing jobs in construction and hospitality. This mirrors what Trump is doing in the US that has difficulty attracting citizens to fill the jobs in construction and hospitality: blame the immigrants.

From Pattaya News By Adam Judd Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has ordered a comprehensive review of Thailand’s visa-free entry scheme, citing concerns over the rising number of foreign visitors overstaying their permitted duration and engaging in illegal employment, according to government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub on Tuesday. The visa-free program, which allows citizens of numerous countries to enter Thailand for up to 60 days without a visa, has been a cornerstone of the nation’s tourism-driven economy. In 2024, Thailand welcomed over 35 million foreign visitors, contributing majorly to its GDP. However, authorities have reported a growing trend of visitors exploiting the scheme, with some staying beyond the allowed period and taking up unauthorized work in sectors such as hospitality, construction, and entertainment. “The Prime Minister has stated the need to balance tourism promotion with national security and legal compliance,” Jirayu said in a press briefing. “The revision will aim to tighten oversight while ensuring Thailand remains a welcoming destination for genuine tourists.” The move comes amid review of immigration policies following high-profile cases of foreign nationals involved in illegal activities. The government has not yet specified the exact changes to the visa-free scheme but indicated that measures could include stricter entry requirements, enhanced tracking of visitors, and harsher penalties for violators. Thailand’s visa-free entry currently applies to citizens of 93 countries, including major tourism markets like China, India, and several European nations. The scheme was expanded in recent years to boost post-pandemic tourism recovery, but critics argue it has strained immigration enforcement resources. The Tourism Authority of Thailand reported that Chinese visitors, who benefit from the visa exemption, accounted for the largest share of arrivals in 2024, with over 6 million travelers. Details of the revised visa-free scheme are expected to be finalized in the coming weeks and months. Until then, current entry rules remain in effect, and travelers are advised to comply with existing visa regulations to avoid penalties. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/04/22/thai-prime-minister-orders-comprehensive-review-of-visa-free-entry-program-changes-coming/

From Pattaya News The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has officially restored Thailand’s aviation safety rating to Category 1, stating that the country now complies with international civil aviation safety standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The announcement, made today by Thailand’s Ministry of Transport, reversed a downgrade to Category 2 in 2015 that stemmed from 36 safety oversight deficiencies.The upgrade clears the way for Thai airlines, including Thai Airways, to resume direct flights to the United States for the first time in nearly a decade. It also enables expanded services to other countries, such as South Korea, that align their aviation standards with FAA assessments. This development is expected to boost Thailand’s tourism and business sectors by simplifying travel and building stronger economic ties with the U.S. and beyond. Thailand’s 2015 downgrade followed an FAA audit that identified critical gaps in the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand’s (CAAT) oversight, including what they said was insufficient legal authority, inadequate numbers of qualified flight inspectors, and conflicts of interest in its dual role as regulator and airport operator. These issues, compounded by an ICAO audit highlighting similar concerns, barred Thai carriers from launching new U.S. routes and disrupted codeshare agreements with American airlines. Since then, the CAAT has undertaken extensive reforms, addressing all 36 deficiencies through legislative changes, increased staffing, and enhanced inspection protocols. A five-day FAA audit in November 2024 found only minor issues, and a final evaluation in March 2025 confirmed Thailand’s compliance, paving the way for today’s upgrade. Transport Permanent Secretary Chayatan Phromsorn confirmed the CAAT’s decade-long effort to meet global standards, noting that the Category 1 status reflects Thailand’s commitment to aviation safety. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/04/22/thailands-aviation-safety-rating-upgraded-to-category-1-by-faa-opening-doors-for-u-s-flights/

It's no secret that the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) has been boosting the potential of Muay Thai's soft power. But the photos The Nation chose to illustrate a recent article gives credence to "a photo is worth a thousand words." https://www.nationthailand.com/pr-news/pr-news/40049062

From Pattaya Mail Despite being one of the most visited countries in the world, Thailand continues to face a persistent and deadly problem: the lack of safety on its long-distance and tourist buses. The recent tragedy on the steep descent of Pu Thon Shrine Hill in Prachinburi, where a bus’s brakes failed and caused a fiery crash that killed seven and injured 53, is just the latest in a long series of horrific incidents. And the saddest part? It’s far from surprising. Thailand’s road fatality rate remains among the highest in the world. While much of the focus has been on motorcycles, buses—particularly those operating on interprovincial or overnight routes—are frequently involved in deadly crashes. Often, the cause is a combination of mechanical failure, driver fatigue, and dangerously poor infrastructure. Many of the buses still in circulation are old, poorly maintained, and riddled with safety issues. Brakes fail, tires wear thin, and emergency exits are sometimes blocked or non-functional. Regulations exist but are unevenly enforced, and in some cases, blatantly ignored due to corruption or cost-cutting by operators. Drivers often work long shifts for little pay, and the pressure to stay on schedule means speed is prioritized over safety. Some lack proper training for handling difficult routes—especially mountainous roads like the one where this recent accident occurred. Pu Thon Hill is notorious for its steep decline and winding curves, yet little has been done to make it safer, despite multiple fatal accidents there over the years. Continues at https://www.pattayamail.com/news/safety-over-savings-more-travelers-ditch-buses-for-trains-and-taxis-on-bangkok-pattaya-route-498414

From Pattaya News With over 10,000 daily visitors and a growing local population, Koh Larn is set to get a new police substation at Tawaen Beach to improve safety and ease the burden on existing officers. Mr. Manoch Nongyai, Deputy Mayor of Pattaya, together with Mr. Kiatthisak Sriwongchai, Permanent Secretary of Pattaya City and other officials, met to discuss the establishment of a new police substation on Koh Larn. The meeting took place at the Pattaya City branch office on Koh Larn, near Tawaen Beach. After the meeting, Mr. Manoch stated that Koh Larn currently welcomes around 10,000 tourists daily, both Thai and foreign, and also has a large residential population. The current police presence from Pattaya Police Station is insufficient to cover the entire area. As a result, there have been ongoing efforts to establish a new substation near the Pattaya City branch office at Tawaen Beach and to increase the number of officers on the island. https://thepattayanews.com/2025/04/22/pattaya-to-set-up-new-police-substation-on-koh-larn-to-boost-tourist-safety/

From The Thaiger A former deputy attorney general has been sentenced to three years in prison, while a former senior public prosecutor received two years, following their involvement in the controversial case surrounding the 2012 fatal hit-and-run involving Red Bull heir Vorayuth “Boss” Yoovidhya. The incident, which saw Vorayuth drive a luxury Porsche sports car into police officer Wichian Klanprasert, leading to his death, has been at the centre of a years-long legal battle. Today, a group of high-profile defendants, including former national police chief Police General Somyot Pumpanmuang and Net Naksuk, arrived at the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct in Bangkok. The case revolves around allegations of evidence tampering, where the defendants are accused of altering statements and car speed details to aid Vorayuth, allowing him to escape more serious charges or face a lesser sentence. The eight defendants implicated in the case, including top-ranking police officers and legal figures, were accused of colluding to change evidence to protect Vorayuth. Among the accused were Police Major General Thawatchai Mekprasertsuk, Police Colonel Wiradol Thapthimdee, and Associate Professor Dr Saiprasit Kerdniyom. Despite the seriousness of the charges, the court dismissed several of the charges against the accused, handing down only partial sentences. https://thethaiger.com/news/bangkok/ex-attorney-general-gets-3-years-in-red-bull-heir-hit-and-run-case