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Photo courtesy of The Phuket News By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Thailand’s nationwide alcohol ban kicks in at 6pm today, leaving Phuket tourists dry for 24 hours as the country gears up for the Provincial Administration Organisation (PAO) elections tomorrow, February 1. Under Thai election law, the sale of alcohol is strictly prohibited during voting periods. Those caught flouting the rule face harsh penalties, including fines of up to 10,000 baht, six months in jail, or both. Officials have issued strong warnings ahead of the election, urging compliance. Meanwhile, the battle for the presidency of the Phuket Provincial Administration Organisation (PPAO) has reached fever pitch. Three candidates are vying for the top seat, but all eyes are on two frontrunners: Lersak Leenanitikul of the People’s Party and former PPAO President Rewat Areerob. In a high-stakes debate at Phuket Rajabhat University last Sunday, January 26 both candidates doubled down on their key policies. Lersak, a former deputy director of Vachira Phuket Hospital, is running under ballot No.2, backed by big names including former Move Forward Party leader Pita Limjaroenrat. His campaign promises include: Overhauling Phuket’s public transport system. Introducing trilingual schools and vocational real-life education. Expanding healthcare with universal cancer screening and 24-hour clinics. Tackling flooding, wastewater issues, and ensuring clean water access. Increasing support for the elderly in need. Pita hailed Lersak as “the last piece of the jigsaw puzzle” for Phuket’s transformation, highlighting urgent issues like crime, road safety, and healthcare. On the other side, Rewat, running for re-election under ballot No.1, staged a major rally at Phuket Merlin Hotel, promising real change under the slogan: “We do it for real, not selling dreams.” His campaign focuses on: Expanding mass transit and secondary road projects. Strengthening disaster prevention and launching Phuket Alert. Boosting telemedicine, emergency services, and traditional Thai medicine. Promoting AI education and lifelong learning. Advancing environmental sustainability and carbon neutrality. Developing world-class sports facilities and positioning Phuket as a health hub. Supporting local businesses, international festivals, and cultural heritage. Empowering youth through the Next New Gen initiative. Rewat pointed to his pandemic leadership, citing successful vaccine rollouts, quarantine centres, and economic recovery efforts. “We’ve laid the foundations—now let’s take Phuket to the next level.” With tensions high and policies clashing, Phuket voters face a crucial decision tomorrow. The election will determine the island’s future, but for now, residents and tourists alike will have to endure a dry spell as the alcohol ban remains in force until 6pm tomorrow, reported The Phuket News. The Election Commission (EC) warned against alcohol sales and parties today, January 31, until tomorrow, February 1, throughout Thailand, except in Bangkok. Today, the EC issued a warning to the public regarding the upcoming election of PAO members and PAO presidents, set to take place tomorrow. From 6pm today, January 31 until 6pm on election day tomorrow, February 1, the sale, distribution, and serving of alcohol are strictly prohibited in all 76 constituencies outside Bangkok. Violators of this regulation may face imprisonment and fines. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

Thai airline flight makes emergency landing in Phuket By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Koh Planner Passengers on a Thai airline flight endured terrifying, life-threatening moments yesterday when their aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing at Phuket International Airport due to engine failure. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350433-thai-airline-flight-makes-emergency-landing-in-phuket/

Photo courtesy of Koh Planner By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Passengers on a Thai airline flight endured terrifying, life-threatening moments yesterday when their aircraft was forced to make an emergency landing at Phuket International Airport due to engine failure. The flight, carrying 150 passengers and crew, was approaching Phuket yesterday, January 30, when one of its engines malfunctioned, prompting immediate action from the flight crew. Despite the alarming situation, all onboard escaped unharmed thanks to the calm and professional response of the pilots and cabin crew. The Thai Civil Aviation Authority confirmed the incident. “The crew acted swiftly and ensured the safety of all on board.” One shaken passenger recounted the tense moments before landing. “It was scary, but I trusted the pilots.” As the cause of the failure remains unknown, aviation officials have launched an investigation to determine what went wrong. The airline has pledged full cooperation, with initial reports suggesting that no technical irregularities were detected before takeoff. The emergency adds to the challenges faced by the airline, which has maintained a strong safety record over the years. However, aviation experts warn that engine malfunctions, while rare, are a stark reminder of the risks inherent in air travel. Passengers and industry analysts are calling for greater transparency in safety procedures to reassure travellers. Some experts stress the importance of clear communication between airlines and passengers during such crises, ensuring that travellers remain informed and calm. In a statement following the incident, the airline reaffirmed its commitment to safety, promising a thorough review of protocols to prevent future occurrences. With investigations now underway, the focus is on identifying the root cause of the failure and implementing preventative measures to maintain confidence in airline safety, reported The Pinnacle Gazette. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

Snake and escape: Python slips past Trang officials in daring breakout By Bob Scott Pictures courtesy of Sanook Officials from the Thung Khai Subdistrict Administrative Organisation found themselves in a tailspin when a slippery python made a daring escape. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350432-snake-and-escape-python-slips-past-trang-officials-in-daring-breakout/

Pictures courtesy of Sanook By Bob Scott Officials from the Thung Khai Subdistrict Administrative Organisation found themselves in a tailspin when a slippery python made a daring escape. The reptilian Houdini slithered its way onto the bonnet of their white Nissan pickup truck, leaving onlookers in Trang province utterly gobsmacked. The incident unfolded in the bustling Wang To intersection in the Thap Thiang subdistrict, where the vehicle was briefly parked. The cheeky python, a staggering 4 metres long, was initially spotted basking on top of the truck. Remembering its roots, it then embarked on a daring descent to the ground, attempting to vanish into the nearby grass. Ever alert, the officials stationed at the vehicle were quick to act. With a rope at the ready, they managed to recapture the slippery serpent, returning it safely to its sack with plans to set it free into the wild once more, ensuring it wouldn’t hiss them by again. Word of the python’s great escape spread like wildfire, sparking intrigue among netizens and lottery aficionados alike. All eyes turned to the vehicle’s registration number, KT 3958 Trang, as hopeful punters slithered towards the chance to strike it lucky in tomorrow’s February 1 draw, reported Sanook. Chalermphon, who captured the reptile ruckus on film, recounted the incident while waiting at a red light. He spotted the snake lounging on the Thung Khai Subdistrict Administrative Organisation’s motor, a surprise guest star demanding attention. Officials later revealed they’d nabbed the python from a different location, securing it in a sack to return it to its natural habitat. But, feeling the heat and sensing an opportunity, the python made its audacious escape onto the vehicle. Quick-thinking officials didn’t let this slippery situation coil out of control, ensuring the python was securely bagged and prepped for its return to the wild. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

Thai man shot near penis in jealousy over karaoke bar girl - video By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ ป้าจอยฝอยข่าว A Thai man shot attempted to shoot another man’s penis at a karaoke bar in the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat on Wednesday due to jealousy after his favourite bar girl paid too much attention to the victim. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350431-thai-man-shot-near-penis-in-jealousy-over-karaoke-bar-girl-video/

Photo via Facebook/ ป้าจอยฝอยข่าว By Petch Petpailin A Thai man shot attempted to shoot another man’s penis at a karaoke bar in the southern province of Nakhon Si Thammarat on Wednesday due to jealousy after his favourite bar girl paid too much attention to the victim. The shooting took place at about 11pm on Wednesday, January 29, frightening partygoers and workers at the karaoke bar. The gunman, who remains unidentified, successfully fled the scene, while the victim, 40 year old Bancha, was rushed to Portanklaivajasit Hospital. Bancha was shot in the groin, very close to his penis. He is now in a stable condition and the gunshot wound did not affect his private parts. Officers from Chawang Police Station investigated the karaoke bar and found a 9mm bullet shell at the scene. They questioned witnesses and relevant people and determined that the shooting was motivated by jealousy. According to the police report, the gunman had feelings for one of the bar girls and wanted her to provide service exclusively to him. However, due to her job, the bar girl also attended to Bancha and his friends, who were sitting at a nearby table. Bancha and the suspect became involved in a heated argument, which escalated into the shooting. The security camera at the bar captured the incident and clearly showed the gunman’s face. In the footage, the suspect, wearing a black T-shirt and a red scarf, was seen arguing with Bancha, who was dressed in a yellow polo shirt. The bar girl, believed to be the source of the jealousy, was standing nearby. Unexpectedly, the suspect pulled out a gun and immediately shot Bancha in the groin, causing him to collapse to the ground. Another video showed the gunman continuing to shout angrily as he fled the bar. Amarin TV reported that police are now investigating the incident to identify the gunman and promised to issue an arrest warrant for him as soon as possible. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

Uzbek man nabbed at Phuket Airport for overstaying visa By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Phuket Airport Immigration via The Phuket News A 21 year old Uzbek national found himself in hot water after being arrested at Phuket International Airport for overstaying his visa by six days. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350430-uzbek-man-nabbed-at-phuket-airport-for-overstaying-visa/

Photo courtesy of Phuket Airport Immigration via The Phuket News By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A 21 year old Uzbek national found himself in hot water after being arrested at Phuket International Airport for overstaying his visa by six days. The arrest took place on Wednesday morning, January 29 at around 10.30am, as immigration officers and local police swooped in on the suspect at the international passenger terminal. The operation was led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Akkaraphon Kaewkiattiyot of the Suppression Investigation Unit (ChP.3), under the directive of Pol. Col. Atisak Panya, Superintendent of the Immigration Division 2. According to a brief report released by Phuket Airport Immigration, the suspect—whose name was not disclosed—was taken into custody and immediately transferred to Sakhu Police Station for further legal proceedings. Thailand enforces strict immigration laws, with even minor visa overstays carrying penalties ranging from fines to potential blacklisting or deportation. Visitors caught overstaying for less than 90 days typically face a fine of 500 baht per day but failure to pay can result in detention. Police continue to ramp up enforcement at major airports and border checkpoints, keeping a close watch on foreigners violating visa conditions, reported The Phuket News. With increased scrutiny on overstayers, this arrest serves as a stark reminder that even a few extra days in paradise can land you in serious legal trouble. Travellers are advised to check their visa status carefully and ensure timely renewals or extensions to avoid facing similar consequences. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

Living the dream to living the screams: British man’s tale of survival By Bob Scott Picture courtesy of Lee Francis Imagine living the dream, only to have it shattered in the blink of an eye in Thailand: This is the reality for a British man who has captivated the hearts of many with his tale of survival against the odds. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350429-living-the-dream-to-living-the-screams-british-man’s-tale-of-survival/

Picture courtesy of Lee Francis By Bob Scott Imagine living the dream, only to have it shattered in the blink of an eye in Thailand: This is the reality for a British man who has captivated the hearts of many with his tale of survival against the odds. Lee Francis was left paralysed after a motorbike crash in Thailand but is determined to turn his nightmare into a new beginning. It was supposed to be the perfect end to a blissful holiday. Lee and his wife, Clare, were on the return leg of a holiday in Krabi, southern Thailand, on January 19, 2024. They were visiting Lee’s daughter, Katie, and were just moments away from returning their hired bikes. “We’re living the dream,” Lee had said to Clare, only minutes before the fateful accident. Disaster struck, leaving the 55 year old with life-threatening injuries, including a fractured spine in three places and a subsequent pulmonary embolism that further complicated his condition. “I am lucky to be alive.” It’s a testament to sheer resilience and, as he believes, the crash helmet that saved his life. Both Lee and Clare were wearing helmets at the time of the crash, a safety measure that is often neglected by locals and tourists alike in Thailand. “It’s important people realise they have to wear the right equipment.” The Welshman spent an arduous 10 months in hospital, first enduring a week-long battle for survival in Bangkok Phuket Hospital, then embarking on a gruelling rehabilitation programme at Llandough Hospital in the Vale of Glamorgan. “Every day and every year, it will get better,” said the occupational therapist from Church Village, Rhondda Cynon Taf, as he focuses on rebuilding his life from a wheelchair. For Clare, who suffered a concussion and deep abrasions in the crash, the journey has also been a challenging one. Married in the summer of 2022, she has been Lee’s steadfast rock, alternating between the role of carer and wife. “She hasn’t missed a day. She’s changed her role from a wife to a carer and back again. She’s an inspiration to me.” Lee is far from alone, as tragic motorcycle accidents have befallen several Welsh tourists in Thailand recently. Earlier this month, 28 year old Corey Bevis from Barry tragically lost his life in a crash, and Adam Davies from Pembrokeshire sustained severe injuries in late 2022. Lee’s story shines a light on the importance of safety and community support. A community occupational therapist by profession, Lee had dedicated his career to aiding people with disabilities in living independent lives. Ironically, he now finds himself on the receiving end of such care, having taken early medical retirement. Lee and Clare are adapting their home to accommodate his new needs, aided partly by funds raised by the local community. “The community have been absolutely fantastic,” he said, expressing gratitude for their generosity. Lee’s rehabilitation journey took him to Stoke Mandeville Hospital, the birthplace of the Paralympic movement, sparking a renewed determination to embrace sports as a means of healing. “I’ve always loved sport, and it’s always been a healer for me. I know sport will heal me mentally again.” Living with Tourette’s syndrome, Lee is no stranger to facing life’s challenges head-on. With each passing day, he is more committed to inspiring others, sharing a poignant message of hope and resilience. “I would like to inspire other people to realise there is life after injury, and that’s the journey I’m now on.” Despite his daily grief for the life he once had, Lee’s story is one of courage, community, and a relentless drive to find new ways of living the dream. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-31

4 suspects surrender after violent attacks over FiveM game conflicts By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ อีซ้อขยี้ข่าว : อีซ้อ Four leading members of a criminal gang, known as the Oreo Gang, turned themselves in after they and other 20 members allegedly carried out violent attacks on multiple victims over conflicts stemming from the action-adventure online game FiveMod, commonly referred to as FiveM. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350354-4-suspects-surrender-after-violent-attacks-over-fivem-game-conflicts/

Photo via Facebook/ อีซ้อขยี้ข่าว : อีซ้อ By Petch Petpailin Four leading members of a criminal gang, known as the Oreo Gang, turned themselves in after they and other 20 members allegedly carried out violent attacks on multiple victims over conflicts stemming from the action-adventure online game FiveMod, commonly referred to as FiveM. FiveM allows players to create their own servers and communities, each with unique rules, displays, and membership conditions. Players take on assigned roles, often dictated by influential figures within the game. These roles include various occupations as well as relationships, such as romantic partners, spouses, and friends. The Oreo Gang was one such community within the game but its influence extended beyond the virtual world. Members also met in real life, and the gang reportedly held financial power within the game. Those wishing to join were required to pay membership fees ranging from 2,000 to 10,000 baht, and the gang controlled their in-game roles. Over time, the gang began exerting control over its members beyond the game, intervening in real-life disputes involving them. The gang leader allegedly resolved conflicts through violence, acting without fear of legal repercussions. The full extent of the gang’s criminal activities came to light after two university students from the Rangsit area of Pathum Thani province near Bangkok came forward to seek justice. The students were brutally assaulted following an in-game dispute with the gang. Influencer-backed claim The Facebook news page Esor News subsequently exposed further crimes linked to the Oreo Gang. Reports suggested that the gang had access to civil registration data, enabling them to track down their victims with ease. The two students were not the gang’s only victims. Numerous others were attacked. Some victims were forced to strip naked, eat grass or cigarettes, or endure public humiliation as the gang posted videos of their assaults online. Most of the victims were too afraid to press charges. The gang reportedly claimed connections with influential figures and threatened to kill anyone who went to the police. One of the gang’s leaders, 28 year old Withit, also known as “Tar,” allegedly claimed to be the nephew of prominent political activist Chuwit Kamolvisit to intimidate victims. As public outrage grew, members of the gang brazenly challenged prominent social media influencer Guntouch “Gun” Pongpaiboonwet and well-known news presenter Kanchai “Noom” Kamnerdploy to bring them to justice. No remorse Gun and Noom expressed their anger on social media and followed up on the case, leading to the surrender of four Oreo Gang members at Khlong Luang Police Station on January 30. They were identified as: 28 year old Withit (Tar), 19 year old Akkawin (Win), 28 year old Siwakorn (Ice), and 18 year old Penthai (Min). As of now, legal proceedings against the four are still ongoing, as their actions involve multiple criminal charges. Tar, Win, and Min tested positive for drugs and were transferred to temporary detention at Thanyaburi Provincial Court. Ice was sent to Khuan Meed Police Station in Songkhla province due to an outstanding fraud warrant. In a brief interview with the media, Tar remained defiant, stating that he only resorted to violence against those who caused problems for him or his friends. He expressed no remorse, insisting that each victim deserved the assault. However, he denied seeing himself as a vigilante. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-30

Thai suspects surrender on brutal attack on Chinese businessman By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of The Nation Following Chon Buri police’s crackdown yesterday, five Thai men linked to a notorious Chinese gang have surrendered to police after allegedly brutally assaulting a Chinese businessman in Pattaya last year in a violent bid to take over his pub. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350353-thai-suspects-surrender-on-brutal-attack-on-chinese-businessman/

Photo courtesy of The Nation By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Following Chon Buri police’s crackdown yesterday, five Thai men linked to a notorious Chinese gang have surrendered to police after allegedly brutally assaulting a Chinese businessman in Pattaya last year in a violent bid to take over his pub. The attack took place on September 14, when Chen Jing, a Chinese businessman and part-owner of a popular Pattaya pub, was ambushed and beaten. The gang, led by Li Jia Rui, also known as Bobby, allegedly wanted to force Chen to sell his shares in the business. Following the attack, Chen filed a complaint with the Immigration Bureau, demanding justice. Police launched an investigation and, on January 23, raided Li’s luxury residence in Pattaya’s Khao Talo neighbourhood. However, he had already disappeared. His wife told officers that Li fled on January 19 and has not been seen since. Police believe he is still in Thailand, with immigration officers tightening border controls to prevent his escape. Meanwhile, the five Thai suspects – Attapol, Jakkrit, Amarin, Phannaphop, and Thanwa – yesterday, January 29, turned themselves in at Pattaya City Police Station. They were charged with assault and making threats at night using vehicles. The suspects denied all charges but were handed over for legal proceedings. This case is part of a larger turf war between Chinese business groups in Pattaya. On March 27 last year, a violent altercation erupted between rival Chinese factions outside pubs owned by Li and Chen, which sit directly opposite each other. As of yesterday, arrest warrants have been issued for 10 out of 14 suspects, including both Chinese and Thai nationals. Four remain on the run, prompting police to seek international cooperation to track them down. The incident has sparked public outrage, with growing calls for stricter enforcement against foreign criminal networks operating in Pattaya. Local police are now under mounting pressure to crack down on organised crime and restore public safety, reported The Nation. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-30

Motorbikes flout Pattaya’s one-way rule, locals demand action By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail Traffic in Pattaya’s bustling Buakhao area is turning into a dangerous free-for-all, as motorbikes continue to ignore one-way restrictions on Soi Honey and Soi Diana, raising serious safety concerns among residents and business owners. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350352-motorbikes-flout-pattaya’s-one-way-rule-locals-demand-action/

Photo courtesy of Pattaya Mail By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Traffic in Pattaya’s bustling Buakhao area is turning into a dangerous free-for-all, as motorbikes continue to ignore one-way restrictions on Soi Honey and Soi Diana, raising serious safety concerns among residents and business owners. Despite clear one-way street designations, riders are brazenly driving against the flow of traffic, creating chaos and near-miss collisions in the heart of Pattaya’s nightlife district. Locals say the lack of enforcement has turned the rule into a meaningless suggestion, putting both motorists and pedestrians at serious risk. “There’s no point in having a one-way system if no one follows it. The police need to take action before someone gets seriously hurt.” Many residents and business owners believe that stricter enforcement is the only solution, urging local officials to crack down on reckless riders before tragedy strikes. They are calling for heavier fines, increased police presence, and stricter traffic control measures to restore order to the streets. The situation highlights a growing problem with traffic law enforcement in Pattaya, where violations often go unchecked. With ongoing efforts to improve road safety, local officials are now under pressure to step up and prevent further accidents before it’s too late, reported Pattaya Mail. Pattaya faces ongoing traffic challenges, particularly in congested areas like Buakhao, Walking Street, and Jomtien. The rapid growth of tourism, nightlife activities, and an increasing number of vehicles contribute to serious road safety concerns. Despite having traffic regulations in place, poor enforcement leads to widespread issues, including running red lights, driving on footpaths, and illegal parking. Tourists unfamiliar with Thai road rules also contribute to accidents, particularly when renting motorbikes without proper experience. Heavy congestion is another major problem, particularly on Beach Road, Second Road, and Sukhumvit Road, where gridlock during peak hours is a frequent occurrence. Double parking and street vendors occupying road space further worsen the situation, making it difficult for traffic to flow smoothly. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-30

Rare tiger family caught on camera in Kaeng Krachan park - video By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Screenshot of Kraeng Krachan National Park Facebook video For the first time, a tigress and her three cubs have been recorded roaming Kaeng Krachan National Park, confirming that Thailand’s largest wild cats are successfully breeding in the protected forest. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350351-rare-tiger-family-caught-on-camera-in-kaeng-krachan-park-video/

Screenshot of Kraeng Krachan National Park Facebook video By Puntid Tantivangphaisal For the first time, a tigress and her three cubs have been recorded roaming Kaeng Krachan National Park, confirming that Thailand’s largest wild cats are successfully breeding in the protected forest. The footage, captured by camera traps deep in the jungle, shows the tigress, identified as KKT-003F, leading her three cubs through the wilderness. Officials estimate the cubs are now around six months old, marking a significant milestone for tiger conservation in Thailand. Mongkol Chaiphakdee, head of Kaeng Krachan National Park, credited the sighting to systematic patrols under the SMART Patrol initiative and ongoing conservation efforts. Supported by the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Thailand and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), these initiatives have been crucial in tracking the park’s tiger population. During a four-day wildlife expedition at the headwaters of the Phetchaburi River, approximately 30 kilometres from Panoen Thung, researchers installed inflatable rafts and monitored animal activity. Camera trap footage revealed that the tigress was first recorded in July last year, with her cubs appearing shortly after, then estimated to be just one month old. Mongkol confirmed that this is the first recorded instance of a tigress giving birth to three cubs in the park, adding to its growing tiger population. Currently, six tigers are confirmed to reside in Kaeng Krachan, including: YaYa – First sighted in 2013 Nadech – Identified in 2019 KKT-003F – The tigress with cubs, recorded in 2023 KKT-004 – Spotted in 2023 KKT-005 – Identified in 2024 KKT-006M – First seen in 2024 Park officials will continue tracking the cubs’ progress, using the data to enhance conservation strategies. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaeng Krachan National Park, located just an hour from Hua Hin, plays a critical role in protecting Thailand’s endangered tiger population, reported Hua Hin Today. Kaeng Krachan Park has been known to be popular for rare animal sightings such as the case on December 19 last year when a leopard was spotted sitting in the middle of a path. Tourists were left stunned as the creature appeared unbothered by their presence. Source: The Thaiger -- 2025-01-30

Rabies Alert: Khon Kaen Warns Against Raw Beef From Unlicensed Sources File photo for reference only Authorities in Khon Kaen province are urging residents to avoid consuming raw beef from unlicensed slaughterhouses after several people contracted rabies. These individuals reportedly ate meat from cattle bitten by rabid dogs. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350346-rabies-alert-khon-kaen-warns-against-raw-beef-from-unlicensed-sources/

File photo for reference only Authorities in Khon Kaen province are urging residents to avoid consuming raw beef from unlicensed slaughterhouses after several people contracted rabies. These individuals reportedly ate meat from cattle bitten by rabid dogs. In response, a movement ban for dogs, cats, and cattle has been imposed in Kranuan sub-district of Sam Sung until February 22. Violators could face a two-year prison sentence or a 40,000 baht fine. Health and livestock teams have vaccinated 276 at-risk individuals against rabies. Additionally, 39 dogs and cats received vaccines, while 2,000 domestic animals were given immunity boosters. Sixteen dogs are currently under quarantine. Charnprasert Polasa, the provincial livestock chief, reported that rabid dogs attacked cattle, which were then illegally slaughtered and sold. Residents are advised to buy meat only from licensed sources and avoid eating raw beef. -- 2025-01-30

Ex-District Head Gets Life for Murder of Police Officer File photo for reference only Former Nakhon Pathom sub-district chief Praween Chanklai, known as 'Kamnan Nok', was sentenced to life imprisonment today for his role in the murder of a highway police officer. The tragic event unfolded on September 6, 2023, at a dinner party at Praween’s home. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350344-ex-district-head-gets-life-for-murder-of-police-officer/

File photo for reference only Former Nakhon Pathom sub-district chief Praween Chanklai, known as 'Kamnan Nok', was sentenced to life imprisonment today for his role in the murder of a highway police officer. The tragic event unfolded on September 6, 2023, at a dinner party at Praween’s home. The Criminal Court found Praween guilty of approving his bodyguard, Thanachai Munmark, to fatally shoot Pol Maj Siwakorn Saibua, a highway police officer. The confrontation arose after Praween sought a favor from the officer—securing a transfer for his nephew to the highway police’s motorcycle patrol unit. Siwakorn declined, citing the need to wait for the annual transfer period in October. A whisky-drinking challenge followed, ending in Praween's defeat. Tensions escalated, with Praween reportedly demanding a gun, insisting Siwakorn couldn’t leave. His bodyguard, Thanachai, then fatally shot the officer with a Glock handgun. Thanachai fled the scene but was shot dead by police several days later. This high-profile case has drawn significant attention, highlighting the severe consequences of abusing power and influence. -- 2025-01-30

Missing Thai PhD Student Sparks Police Hunt Across Japan File photo for reference only Japanese authorities are intensifying efforts to locate Pornsawan Pongsawat, a 30-year-old Thai PhD student at Miyazaki University, who has been missing since last Friday. Her absence was first noticed by Thai peers when she failed to appear at their agreed meetings. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1350342-missing-thai-phd-student-sparks-police-hunt-across-japan/

File photo for reference only Japanese authorities are intensifying efforts to locate Pornsawan Pongsawat, a 30-year-old Thai PhD student at Miyazaki University, who has been missing since last Friday. Her absence was first noticed by Thai peers when she failed to appear at their agreed meetings. Pornsawan was last seen by her friends at her hostel around 10am on 23 January, as she prepared to leave for university. She remained reachable until 6am the following day, but then all contact ceased, raising concerns among her colleagues and friends. Upon inspecting Pornsawan's room, police discovered several personal items, including her Thai passport, Japanese residency ID, and digital devices. Her smartphone, tablet, and a set of letters were left untouched, and intriguingly, a key was found in a friend's hostel mailbox, adding to the mystery. Despite initial searches, authorities have yet to uncover any indications as to why Pornsawan went missing. Miyazaki police have called for assistance from their counterparts throughout Japan, expanding the search efforts beyond regional boundaries in hopes of locating the student safely. -- 2025-01-30