Sharp, essential news and analysis from Malaysia.
Laos has deported 32 Thai nationals following a July raid on the ST Vegas complex in Vientiane, where authorities arrested 589 people suspected of involvement in online fraud and illegal gambling operations targeting victims across the region.
Myanmar's anti-narcotics police have dismantled two significant drug trafficking networks, confiscating 17.6 kilogrammes of heroin and one million stimulant tablets across the central regions of Mandalay and Naypyitaw, with nine suspects now facing charges.
Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow met US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at an Asean foreign ministers' gathering, reaffirming bilateral ties and advancing discussions on security, trade, and Myanmar's regional engagement.
An Indian tourist has been jailed for over two years after stealing a S$200,000 diamond from a Singapore jewellery store using a carefully planned counterfeit swap scheme. His accomplice's case remains pending.
The Philippines, chairing ASEAN, will convene foreign ministers next week to determine future approaches toward Myanmar following the first in-person meeting with a junta representative since 2021. The Five-Point Consensus remains central to deliberations.
Thai narcotics authorities have dismantled a cross-border heroin trafficking operation, seizing 24.38kg of the drug concealed in parcels disguised as handicrafts and clothing bound for Australia and Taiwan, with investigations pointing to a Thai fugitive coordinating from abroad.