Real estate developer Sakulthorn claims he is a victim of a fraud, not a bribe payer

14 Sept 10:36 Key points summarised by AI

Real estate developer Sakulthorn Juangroongruangkit asserts he was defrauded of 20 million baht in 'brokerage fees' for a land lease from the Crown Property Bureau (CPB), vehemently denying paying a bribe.
He identifies land broker Surakit Tangvitoowanich and CPB official Prasit Apaipholcharn, both previously convicted for bribery in this case, as the individuals who allegedly duped him.
Sakulthorn maintains the 20 million baht was a legitimate brokerage fee for a commercially viable offer, not a bribe, and states the CPB itself uncovered the falsified lease offer and alerted authorities.

The Buddha Comes Home

Yesterday 15:38 Key points summarised by AI

Chong Para is a vibrant annual festival of the Shan (Tai Yai) people in Mae Hong Son, Thailand, celebrating the Buddha's return from Tavatimsa heaven after Buddhist Lent.
The festival's centerpiece involves families constructing intricate miniature palaces, also called Chong Para, from bamboo, paper, and lights, placed outside homes and temples as offerings.
For three days and nights, the quiet mountain town comes alive with folk music, traditional dances like the Shan bird dance, religious ceremonies, and community gatherings, showcasing deep-rooted Shan culture.
Beyond the celebrations, Chong Para reinforces family bonds, preserves traditional crafts, and offers visitors an authentic immersion into the unique cultural heritage of Mae Hong Son.