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Picture courtesy of MGR Online The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has intensified efforts across Thailand to monitor and control the increasing levels of PM 2.5 dust and illegal burning. Phasakorn Boonyalak, Director-General of the DDPM, highlighted that while air quality remains safe in central and southern regions, the north and northeast have hit orange pollution levels, indicating potential health risks. PM 2.5 levels should not surpass 50 µg/m³ to be deemed safe. The situation is critical in Ubon Ratchathani, where levels have reached the red alert zone. Until March 7, air quality will be closely monitored when expected rains might bring relief. As of March 2, 760 hot spots have been identified, mainly in forest reserves and agricultural lands. In Thailand, the highest numbers of these hot spots are found in Tak (154), Lampang (119), Chaiyaphum (50), Kalasin (34), and Sa Kaeo (34). Adding to the crisis, increasing hot spots in neighboring countries like Myanmar and Laos are worsening the air quality in northern and northeastern Thailand. In provinces like Ubon Ratchathani and Yasothon, PM 2.5 levels remain high, demanding urgent monitoring. Provinces, especially those with numerous hot spots, are urged to partner with agencies to curb these incidents. Authorities have ramped up efforts to stop illegal burning and introduced strict pollution control measures. Currently, 58 hot spots are reported in national forest reserves, with legal actions initiated against illegal burning. The crackdown has led to 28 cases against forest burners. The Department of National Parks revealed 46 hot spots in conservation areas, primarily in northern regions. As a proactive measure, 138 conservation areas have now been closed. Recent reports indicate a 4.51 million rai reduction in burned land for sugarcane production, showcasing progress in industrial pollution control. In Maha Sarakham, 259 hot spots were noted since January, primarily due to agricultural activities. Consequently, the province now implements a no open-burning rule, leading to 27 legal cases. Deputy Director-General of the DDPM, Saharad Wongsakulwiwat, lauded the agencies' efforts but insisted on stronger measures in high-risk areas. Initiatives to prevent cross-border pollution continue, with new public engagement strategies underway, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Exam Scandal: Chiang Mai Monk Faces Dismissal and Legal Charges File photo for reference only A senior monk from Chiang Mai faces criminal charges after an impersonation scandal during a crucial Pali examination in Bangkok. Minister Chusak Sirinil from the Prime Minister’s Office has urged legal action against the monk, who allegedly hired another monk to take the exam in his place. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353537-exam-scandal-chiang-mai-monk-faces-dismissal-and-legal-charges/

File photo for reference only A senior monk from Chiang Mai faces criminal charges after an impersonation scandal during a crucial Pali examination in Bangkok. Minister Chusak Sirinil from the Prime Minister’s Office has urged legal action against the monk, who allegedly hired another monk to take the exam in his place. The Chiang Mai ecclesiastical office quickly ordered the dismissal of the unnamed monk from his abbot position at a major local temple. He was also removed as head of the San Pa Tong district's clergy order. The impersonator was caught during the February 24-25 exam at Sanam Luang in Bangkok's Phra Nakhon district. A notice from Phra Thepmangkalachan, abbot of Wat Thaton and ecclesiastical governor, officially removed the monk from his responsibilities on March 2. This scandal not only broke Buddhist monastic rules but also violated religious integrity. Chusak has notified the National Office of Buddhism and stressed that the offense requires swift action due to its criminal nature. This incident shines a light on the lax oversight in regional monk exams compared to those in Bangkok, which may allow for similar fraudulent activities. The monk in question, reportedly 35, is known for often wearing sunglasses in public—an accessory his stand-in also wore during the exam but was visibly much older. An investigation is ongoing, and he may face consequences, including defrocking, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Bangkok Clears Street Food Vendors for a Cleaner Khlong Toei Market File photo for reference only Street food vendors at Bangkok's Khlong Toei Market 1 have been told to vacate by March 16. This move, led by Deputy Governor Jakkapan Phiewngam, aims to improve the look and pedestrian access along Ratchadaphisek Road in the Khlong Toei area. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353535-bangkok-clears-street-food-vendors-for-a-cleaner-khlong-toei-market/

File photo for reference only Street food vendors at Bangkok's Khlong Toei Market 1 have been told to vacate by March 16. This move, led by Deputy Governor Jakkapan Phiewngam, aims to improve the look and pedestrian access along Ratchadaphisek Road in the Khlong Toei area. Governor Jakkapan, along with Deputy Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Permanent Secretary Supakrit Boonkhant, recently visited the site to discuss the necessary changes. The focus is on clearing structures from the road section connecting Rama IV Road and Sunthon Kosa Road. About 35 vendors from Khlong Toei Market 1, spanning from Phek Leng Keng Shrine to Rama IV Road, will need to move their stalls. These vendors provide a range of street foods, including pork blood soup, BBQ pork rice, crispy pork, sweets, and fresh produce. There have been concerns about hygiene, with reports of improper waste disposal leading to blocked drainage and dirty conditions. Additionally, washing water from food prep has left pavements slippery and greasy, causing unpleasant smells and bacterial growth. Vendors must relocate to within Khlong Toei Markets 1 and 2 or other nearby markets by March 16. After this, the pavements will be reworked to be more pedestrian-friendly. Earlier, the BMA moved vendors off footpaths in Khlong Toei Market 2, known as the Lao Market, along Rama IV Road. This was part of an effort last December and January to improve the area's infrastructure and look. The BMA plans to create new hawker centers, providing vendors better-organized spaces for business, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Foul Smell Leads to Infant's Body Discovery in Ayutthaya Picture courtesy of Matichon Residents in the Sam Ruean subdistrict of Bang Pa-in, Ayutthaya, made a tragic discovery when they followed a foul smell to find an abandoned infant's body in a ditch. Despite the presence of monitor lizards in the area, the infant's body remained undisturbed. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353534-foul-smell-leads-to-infants-body-discovery-in-ayutthaya/

Picture courtesy of Matichon Residents in the Sam Ruean subdistrict of Bang Pa-in, Ayutthaya, made a tragic discovery when they followed a foul smell to find an abandoned infant's body in a ditch. Despite the presence of monitor lizards in the area, the infant's body remained undisturbed. On March 3, around 6:30 p.m., Police Lt. Thaworn Saengsai received reports from locals about the discovery of the baby's body wrapped in a large brown plastic bag amidst rubbish and overgrowth. The infant, of undetermined gender due to decomposition, may have been deceased for several days. A 49-year-old local, Sakchai, discovered the body while repairing a nearby fence. He was initially drawn to the site by a swarm of flies and the overpowering smell. Police and medical teams are actively investigating, seeking to uncover those responsible for this abandonment. The child's body is undergoing an autopsy at the Institute of Forensic Medicine in Pathum Thani to determine the cause of death. Authorities are determined to bring those responsible to justice as the investigation continues, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Pathum Thani Residents Alarmed by Discarded Fake Bomb Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Residents in Pathum Thani province were startled yesterday afternoon when they discovered several orange, stick-like objects resembling a bomb, complete with wires and a working timer, abandoned in a roadside rubbish bin. The suspicious find, located outside an empty commercial building on Semue Fa Kram Road, prompted immediate police action. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353533-pathum-thani-residents-alarmed-by-discarded-fake-bomb/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Residents in Pathum Thani province were startled yesterday afternoon when they discovered several orange, stick-like objects resembling a bomb, complete with wires and a working timer, abandoned in a roadside rubbish bin. The suspicious find, located outside an empty commercial building on Semue Fa Kram Road, prompted immediate police action. Police Lieutenant Colonel Setthawut Kamnama from the Khu Khot Police Station was alerted at 2 p.m. and quickly arrived at the scene with investigators. They found the concerning items in a 200-litre green plastic bin positioned by a utility pole outside the former office building, now unoccupied. The objects were five to six orange sticks, each a cubit in length, bound together and attached to a running timer, convincingly mimicking an explosive device. After securing the location and keeping anxious locals at a safe distance, police examined the items and determined they were fake. Further investigation revealed the items were likely props from a closed company that used to create YouTube content. A former employee indicated that these dummy explosives might have been used in filming. The company, which specialized in game content, crafted specific props as needed. With the business no longer in operation, these items were likely discarded, unintentionally causing panic when mistaken for a genuine bomb threat, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Thai Town on Edge: Teen Gangs Causes Late Night Chaos Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Samut Prakan province has been gripped by fear as groups of teenagers engage in violent confrontations, disrupting the peace for three consecutive nights. Residents have been on edge due to late-night clashes involving knives, sticks, firearms, and explosives, prompting urgent calls for police intervention. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353532-thai-town-on-edge-teen-gangs-causes-late-night-chaos/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Samut Prakan province has been gripped by fear as groups of teenagers engage in violent confrontations, disrupting the peace for three consecutive nights. Residents have been on edge due to late-night clashes involving knives, sticks, firearms, and explosives, prompting urgent calls for police intervention. Security camera footage from the Thaiban subdistrict in Mueang district shows about 10 teenagers on motorcycles blocking roads and hurling ping pong bombs while taunting one another. The altercations have left the streets littered with shattered glass and bomb remnants. Local resident Yotkorn described being jolted awake by the sound of gunfire and explosions. His security cameras captured footage of groups from Soi Yusuk, infamous for their late-night clashes. Concerned for the safety of the community's children, Yotkorn urged the police to take action against the nighttime violence. Another resident, Phongphet, showed media fragments of ping pong bombs found outside his home. He explained that both groups, heavily armed, have made it impossible for locals to sleep peacefully. The fear of explosions near homes and potential damage to parked cars adds to the community's distress. Residents are now living in a state of anxiety, hoping authorities will restore safety and calm to their neighborhood, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Pregnant Woman Killed in Pattaya Road Crash: Family Injured Photo via Facebook/ ข่าวสารชลบุรี A tragic accident in Pattaya claimed the life of a pregnant Lao woman yesterday. Her husband, Warathip, aged 31, and their two daughters, aged four and two, sustained serious injuries when a six-wheel truck hit their motorcycle. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353531-pregnant-woman-killed-in-pattaya-road-crash-family-injured/

Photo via Facebook/ ข่าวสารชลบุรี A tragic accident in Pattaya claimed the life of a pregnant Lao woman yesterday. Her husband, Warathip, aged 31, and their two daughters, aged four and two, sustained serious injuries when a six-wheel truck hit their motorcycle. The horrific event unfolded around 4 p.m. on Highway 331 in Bang Lamung district. Locals gathered in shock as rescue teams attended to the injured. The father suffered a severe head wound, while the daughters bore bruises; the older girl broke her arm. They were swiftly taken to Pattamakhun Hospital. The deceased mother, 30-year-old Mon, was found with her abdomen torn open. Tragically, her unborn child's body lay a meter away from her. The truck driver, 62-year-old Sonthana, admitted he dozed off behind the wheel, causing the collision. He stayed at the scene, visibly shaken. A witness reported the truck ran over the woman, intensifying the tragedy. Police are considering legal actions against Sonthana who may face charges of reckless driving causing death, which could lead to a prison sentence of up to 10 years and a fine of up to 200,000 baht, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Security Lapse in Pattaya: How an Unlocked Door Cost 30,000 Baht A casual night out ended disastrously for 23-year-old Kawalin of Pattaya after her gold jewellery, valued at over 30,000 baht, was stolen following a daring break-in at her apartment on February 28. The incident occurred around 10:30 PM at Kawalin’s South Pattaya residence, which she believed to be secure due to its keycard entry system. Unfortunately, she left her door unlocked before going out, only to return the next morning to find her valuables missing. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353530-security-lapse-in-pattaya-how-an-unlocked-door-cost-30000-baht/

A casual night out ended disastrously for 23-year-old Kawalin of Pattaya after her gold jewellery, valued at over 30,000 baht, was stolen following a daring break-in at her apartment on February 28. The incident occurred around 10:30 PM at Kawalin’s South Pattaya residence, which she believed to be secure due to its keycard entry system. Unfortunately, she left her door unlocked before going out, only to return the next morning to find her valuables missing. Determined to get to the bottom of the theft, Kawalin reviewed surveillance footage and discovered a woman between the ages of 40 and 45 entering the building with other residents. The suspect was seen trying several doors before slipping into Kawalin’s unlocked apartment, taking less than a minute to steal the gold jewellery. Kawalin reported the theft to Pattaya Police Station on March 3 and urged officials to resolve the case promptly. She expressed her desire for her belongings to be recovered, emphasizing the need for increased police action. In response, Pattaya police have launched an investigation, examining CCTV footage to identify the suspect. Authorities advised residents to remain vigilant and lock their doors, even in keycard-secured buildings. Coincidentally, a separate gold heist occurred on March 2 in Tak province’s Mae Sot district. A suspect disguised as a delivery rider stole gold worth approximately 4.7 million baht (US$137,175) from a jewellery shop inside a Lotus shopping mall. Local police are actively pursuing the suspects in both cases and urging the public to report any suspicious activities, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Cultural Misstep: Indian Tourists Climb Buddha Statue for Mangoes - video Photo courtesy of Naewna A recent incident at Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon in Ayutthaya, Thailand, has caused an uproar among the Buddhist community. It involved Indian tourists climbing a Buddha statue to pick mangoes, raising concerns about respect and behavior on sacred grounds. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353527-cultural-misstep-indian-tourists-climb-buddha-statue-for-mangoes-video/

Photo courtesy of Naewna A recent incident at Wat Yai Chai Mongkhon in Ayutthaya, Thailand, has caused an uproar among the Buddhist community. It involved Indian tourists climbing a Buddha statue to pick mangoes, raising concerns about respect and behavior on sacred grounds. A TikTok video, captured by user @viewyeahhh, shows an Indian woman, aged between 50 and 60, stepping on a Buddha statue's base to reach the fruit. Another woman was seen holding a bag of mangoes below. This action has led to widespread anger and highlighted the need for cultural awareness among tourists. Reporters visited the site in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya district and found numerous mango trees surrounding the sacred Chedi Chai Mongkhon area. The tree in the video was notably full of fruit, enticing the tourists. Kanyavee, a 51-year-old visitor, expressed her disappointment, stressing the need for respect on temple grounds. She reiterated that while tourists are welcomed to take photos and participate in temple activities, they should avoid touching sacred objects. Arunee, a 64-year-old temple staff member, speculated that the incident occurred during a busy holiday period. Although surprised when shown the video, she noted that the women were likely not part of a guided tour, as guides typically inform tourists about site etiquette. The temple has signs instructing visitors on proper behavior and attire. Arunee suggested the mango-picking may have happened late in the day when fewer staff were present. In response, temple officials plan to enhance monitoring to prevent similar incidents, ensuring respect and reverence are maintained on the temple grounds, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Foreign Scammer with EM Bracelet Targets Pattaya Women Photo of the alleged suspect via Facebook/ เดินรอบพัทยา Women in Pattaya have been sounding the alarm about a foreign man wearing an electronic monitoring (EM) bracelet, who allegedly lures them into hotel rooms to rob and assault them. The Facebook page "Walking Around Pattaya" posted a video of the suspect and issued warnings to local women. The man, frequently dressed in black, reportedly prowls Pattaya Beach looking for prey. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353526-foreign-scammer-with-em-bracelet-targets-pattaya-women/

Photo of the alleged suspect via Facebook/ เดินรอบพัทยา Women in Pattaya have been sounding the alarm about a foreign man wearing an electronic monitoring (EM) bracelet, who allegedly lures them into hotel rooms to rob and assault them. The Facebook page "Walking Around Pattaya" posted a video of the suspect and issued warnings to local women. The man, frequently dressed in black, reportedly prowls Pattaya Beach looking for prey. He allegedly invites Thai women to hotel rooms under the guise of seeking companionship, only to rob them upon arrival. Some victims have reported violent encounters, including attempted strangulation in hotel bathrooms. One woman successfully defended herself, injuring him with her sharp fingernails. Victims have contacted police, but officers claim they cannot act as these incidents are not classified as flagrant offenses. Frustrated by this lack of action, victims have turned to social media to warn others. Outcry Over Police Inaction Netizens have expressed outrage, questioning why someone with an EM bracelet—a sign of past criminal activity in Thailand—is allowed to roam freely. Comments on social media express disbelief at the police inaction: "Why do the police wait until someone gets hurt or killed?" "This man is dangerous. How can the police do nothing?" Several women shared similar experiences, with more cases of robberies by foreign men coming to light. Another local pointed out frequently seeing the suspect posing as a tourist in the area. As of now, local police and administrative officials have not responded publicly to these growing concerns. The community remains on edge, urging authorities to take immediate action against the alleged perpetrator, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

Thailand Balances Booze Ban with Tourism on Buddhist Holy Days File photo for reference only Thailand's Alcoholic Beverage Board has decided to maintain the ban on alcohol sales during five major Buddhist holy days, but with some exceptions to support tourism. The new rules are expected to start before Visakha Bucha Day on May 11. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353524-thailand-balances-booze-ban-with-tourism-on-buddhist-holy-days/

File photo for reference only Thailand's Alcoholic Beverage Board has decided to maintain the ban on alcohol sales during five major Buddhist holy days, but with some exceptions to support tourism. The new rules are expected to start before Visakha Bucha Day on May 11. Chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Prasert Chantararuangthong, a meeting took place at the Government House on March 4. The ban will stay, but alcohol sales will be allowed in certain locations like international airports, designated tourist areas, hotels, and venues hosting major events. “This plan supports tourism while keeping order,” Prasert explained. He added that the Ministry of Public Health and Ministry of Interior will enforce the rules to prevent underage drinking and ensure public safety. The affected holy days are Makha Bucha Day, Visakha Bucha Day, Asarnha Bucha Day, Khao Phansa Day, and Ok Phansa Day. Alcohol sales will be permitted under strict conditions in: International airports for departing passengers. Licensed tourist area venues. Hotels under the Hotel Act. Approved venues hosting major events. Moreover, the board is studying the potential legalization of online alcohol sales. Prasert clarified that the prohibition periods can't change yet due to Revolutionary Council Announcement No. 253, which governs alcohol sale and consumption hours. Regulatory amendments are underway. Public input will be sought over a 15-day period on an official website before submitting the final proposal to the Minister of Public Health. If approved, it will go to the prime minister for signing and publication in the Royal Gazette. "We expect these rules to be in place by May 11," Prasert mentioned. This decision illustrates Thailand’s effort to respect religious traditions while catering to international tourists and the hospitality sector, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-04

White Powder Mystery: Russian Found Dead in Koh Kaew" Picture courtesy of Phuket City Police Phuket City police are probing the death of a 41-year-old Russian man found lifeless in a Koh Kaew residence. Police Lieutenant Saruta Phumduang, Deputy Chief of Investigation, received the report around 8 PM on March 2, promptly sending officers and forensic experts from Vachira Phuket Hospital to the scene. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353430-white-powder-mystery-russian-found-dead-in-koh-kaew/

Picture courtesy of Phuket City Police Phuket City police are probing the death of a 41-year-old Russian man found lifeless in a Koh Kaew residence. Police Lieutenant Saruta Phumduang, Deputy Chief of Investigation, received the report around 8 PM on March 2, promptly sending officers and forensic experts from Vachira Phuket Hospital to the scene. The man's body was discovered on the floor with no visible signs of violence. His girlfriend had found him around 6 PM, already deceased, but the time gap before notifying authorities remains unclear. At the scene, officers found a syringe and a white powder on a coffee table, some of which was on a teaspoon with a lighter beside it. Forensic experts are analyzing the substance to determine if it was a drug and if it played a role in the man’s death. Photos also showed books on the table, suggesting the man might have been in a state of recovery. The investigation continues as authorities seek to uncover the precise cause of his untimely death, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-03

Feline Diversity Flourishes in Thailand's Kaeng Krachan Park File photo for reference only Camera traps at Kaeng Krachan National Park in Thailand have recently captured images of four rare feline species, highlighting a thriving ecosystem within this World Heritage Site. A collaborative survey by park officials and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Thailand along the upper Phetchaburi River revealed a tiger, black panther, clouded leopard, and marbled cat – all protected species. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353429-feline-diversity-flourishes-in-thailands-kaeng-krachan-park/

File photo for reference only Camera traps at Kaeng Krachan National Park in Thailand have recently captured images of four rare feline species, highlighting a thriving ecosystem within this World Heritage Site. A collaborative survey by park officials and the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Thailand along the upper Phetchaburi River revealed a tiger, black panther, clouded leopard, and marbled cat – all protected species. Additionally, the survey recorded sightings of wild elephants, Asian black bears, and wild boars, further showcasing the area's ecological richness. These discoveries underline the success of intensive patrolling and conservation efforts. The collected data will be instrumental in shaping future conservation strategies, ensuring the continued protection of this vital natural habitat, reported Thai News Agency. -- 2025-03-03