Thailand’s submarine plan torpedoed again as govt takes flak for COVID battle

14 Sept 02:03 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Navy shelved plans to buy Chinese submarines for the third time, diverting the budget to address the worsening COVID-19 crisis amid intense public and political pressure.
The decision comes as the government faces severe criticism for its handling of the pandemic, with soaring cases and fatalities making military spending politically untenable.
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha suggested the delay to avoid further attacks on his administration, as lawmakers from both sides opposed the submarine budget.
Despite the Navy's arguments for maritime defense, the urgent need to combat the health crisis ultimately forced the withdrawal of the controversial procurement request.

Six injured after car smashes into On Nut shopping mall

Yesterday 22:44 Key points summarised by AI

A 67-year-old woman drove her car through the glass frontage of a Bangkok shopping mall, injuring six people, including a six-year-old girl.
The driver claimed she accidentally pressed the accelerator instead of the brake after being startled, causing the vehicle to surge forward.
She apologized to the victims, promising insurance coverage and additional financial aid, while police continue to gather statements before filing charges.