Rocket launch
Spectators watch the look noo (home-made rocket) competition held at Khlong See Temple in Pathum Thani on March 13.
Cargo losses
Port Authority needs money
The Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) is exploring ways to supplement its income to compensate for a reduction caused by falling demand for its export cargo container service, PAT director Suthinant Hathawong said on March 13.
On average, demand for export containers has fallen from 130,000 containers a month to 120,000 a month, Hathawong said. The drop in exports was to blame, he added.
The PAT planned to meet exporters, importers and maritime operators on how to improve its services.
Dirty money
Policeman launders cash
A policeman attached to Bangkok’s Bang Khunthian police station has been arrested on charges of money laundering and possession of drugs after being implicated in a major drug ring.
Pol Snr Sgt Maj Thichat-at Muangkrachang was picked up by a task force of anti-narcotics officers on March 11 at a restaurant in Bangkok’s Bang Bon district. His arrest came after dozens of complaints implicating him in drug trafficking and money laundering activities.
The investigation will focus on the policeman’s assets.
EASY NEWS FOR M1-3
Rising prices
Boat fares increase
Fares for boat services across Bangkok and nearby provinces will rise by one baht. The Chao Phraya Express Boat Company reported the news on March 12. The company claimed that the rise was due to increased diesel prices.
Vocabulary
- compensate (v): to provide something good to balance or reduce the bad effects of damage or loss
maritime (adj): connected with the sea or ships
money laundering (n): the movement of money that has been obtained illegally into foreign bank accounts or legal businesses so that it is difficult for people to know where the money came from
