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Hospital Director Arrested for Drunk Driving Accident in Chaiyaphum Photo of the accident scene | Photo via KhaoSod Late last night, April 30, a drunk driving incident involving the hospital director of Nong Bua Daeng Hospital resulted in severe injuries to two television photographers in Chaiyaphum province. The accident occurred at approximately 10.16pm, as the photographers were about to enter a restaurant for a late-night meal. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359438-hospital-director-arrested-for-drunk-driving-accident-in-chaiyaphum/

Photo of the accident scene | Photo via KhaoSod Late last night, April 30, a drunk driving incident involving the hospital director of Nong Bua Daeng Hospital resulted in severe injuries to two television photographers in Chaiyaphum province. The accident occurred at approximately 10.16pm, as the photographers were about to enter a restaurant for a late-night meal. Police Lieutenant Kanti Piansoongnern, Deputy Inspector at Mueang Chaiyaphum Police Station, responded to the report of a car crash at a Nai Mueang subdistrict restaurant. Accompanied by medical professionals from Chaiyaphum Hospital and the Sawang Khunatham Chaiyaphum Rescue Unit, he arrived on scene to assess the situation. The crash involved a white Toyota displaying a Ministry of Public Health decal, which had veered onto the pavement, damaging the restaurant and scattering its contents. The injured individuals, 33-year-old Aiempha and 35-year-old Thossawat Inphuk, both TV photographers, were promptly given first aid before being transported to Chaiyaphum Hospital. Investigation reveals that the hospital director, after leaving a nearby restaurant-bar, failed to slow down and collided with the photographers as they neared the restaurant entrance. Due to his inebriated state, his vehicle mounted the pavement, resulting in the collision. Police collected initial evidence, analysed CCTV footage, and monitored the condition of the injured. The director was subjected to an alcohol test, which recorded a level of 119 milligrammes, despite attempts to dilute evidence by consuming water, sour milk, and frequent restroom visits. The director has been summoned for further questioning as authorities continue to gather evidence to build a legal case. This incident highlights the critical need for awareness and action against drunk driving to ensure public safety and accountability. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

Police Officer Injured in Ambush Near Checkpoint in Yala Province Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A border patrol officer was injured during a shooting incident while setting up a checkpoint in Mueang district, Yala province, at 8.15pm on April 30. The ambush occurred near the operational base in Baan Chanan, Phorn subdistrict. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359436-police-officer-injured-in-ambush-near-checkpoint-in-yala-province/

Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A border patrol officer was injured during a shooting incident while setting up a checkpoint in Mueang district, Yala province, at 8.15pm on April 30. The ambush occurred near the operational base in Baan Chanan, Phorn subdistrict. The officer, identified as 29-year-old Watcharin Noppapuang, sustained a gunshot wound to his right arm. Emergency services quickly transported him to Yala Central Hospital for treatment, where he is receiving care. Initial investigations suggest that the police team was ambushed by an unidentified group of assailants as they were establishing the checkpoint. The attack ceased after a brief exchange of gunfire, during which Watcharin was injured. In response to the attack, the area has been secured by police, military, and local administration officials who are conducting an extensive investigation. Authorities are on high alert, seeking to identify and apprehend the attackers involved in this coordinated ambush. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

KNLA Seizes Over Six Million Meth Pills Bound for Thailand Picture courtesy of วรศักดิ์ พานทอง Facebook The Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) intercepted a large smuggling operation, seizing more than six million methamphetamine pills destined for Thailand. The bust took place on April 30 in Hpa-An province, Karen State, Myanmar, near the Thai border across from Mae Sariang district, Mae Hong Son. Two suspects were detained in connection with the operation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359435-knla-seizes-over-six-million-meth-pills-bound-for-thailand/

Picture courtesy of วรศักดิ์ พานทอง Facebook The Karen National Liberation Army (KNLA) intercepted a large smuggling operation, seizing more than six million methamphetamine pills destined for Thailand. The bust took place on April 30 in Hpa-An province, Karen State, Myanmar, near the Thai border across from Mae Sariang district, Mae Hong Son. Two suspects were detained in connection with the operation. According to a KNLA insider, the interception stemmed from a tip-off received on April 27 by the 7th Brigade of the Karen National Union (KNU), which spotted a suspicious motorboat on the upper Salween River transporting the illicit cargo. The drugs were seized on the Moei River within the KNU’s operational domain. The contraband originated from the Salween River with the intended destination of southern Mae Sariang, Thailand. Additionally, police at a KNU/KNLA checkpoint in Maneplaw confiscated more drugs that had been transported from Pasong, Myanmar, with plans to pass through Mae Sariang into Myanmar's interior. These drugs were linked to an individual associated with the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA) and the military council's network. This bust marks the fourth known smuggling attempt using this route. Interrogation of the detained boat captain revealed that the drugs were smuggled under the guise of activities by an anti-dictatorship organisation, purportedly for the organisation's missions. This operation also led to the arrest of four individuals. Initial investigations indicate that the seized drugs are tied to the military council. Typically, once these drugs reach southern Mae Sariang, they are swiftly collected by waiting vehicles for further distribution. In response to this trend of smuggling activities being disguised as organisational missions, KNU/KNLA checkpoints along the Thai-Myanmar border have ramped up their inspection protocols to prevent further illegal trafficking. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

Chinese Tourist Arrested for Overstaying Visa in Chiang Mai Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Yesterday, April 30, immigration police in Chiang Mai apprehended a Chinese national for overstaying his tourist visa. The arrest ensued from a collaborative operation between the Chiang Mai Provincial Immigration Bureau and Immigration Division 5, taking place on Thipanet Road in the Mueang district. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359433-chinese-tourist-arrested-for-overstaying-visa-in-chiang-mai/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Yesterday, April 30, immigration police in Chiang Mai apprehended a Chinese national for overstaying his tourist visa. The arrest ensued from a collaborative operation between the Chiang Mai Provincial Immigration Bureau and Immigration Division 5, taking place on Thipanet Road in the Mueang district. The man was charged with overstaying his permitted duration in Thailand. Authorities ensured he was informed of his legal rights and charges before transferring him to the Chiang Mai City Police Station for further legal proceedings. Steps to deport him back to China are currently in motion. The detainee admitted to not applying for a visa extension after its expiration, in an attempt to avoid detection by law enforcement. He was ultimately captured by immigration police investigators. For those seeking further information or having inquiries, contact can be made with the Chiang Mai Provincial Immigration Bureau through their website at https://chiangmai.immigration.go.th, Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/immchiangmai, or by calling 0 5320 1755. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

Water Truck Brake Failure Leads to Collision in Chon Buri, No Injuries Reported Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A six-wheel water truck experienced brake failure and collided with an electric pole in Chon Buri yesterday, April 30, thankfully causing no injuries. The incident occurred at 2.56pm when the driver took quick action to avoid a more serious accident. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359432-water-truck-brake-failure-leads-to-collision-in-chon-buri-no-injuries-reported/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A six-wheel water truck experienced brake failure and collided with an electric pole in Chon Buri yesterday, April 30, thankfully causing no injuries. The incident occurred at 2.56pm when the driver took quick action to avoid a more serious accident. Emergency services from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Centre in Pattaya responded to reports of the mishap involving the six-wheel Isuzu water truck, registered as 86-0085 Chon Buri. The vehicle lost control and impacted a high-voltage electric pole at the entrance of Sukhumvit 89, or Thung Klom Tan Man, in the Nong Prue subdistrict of Bang Lamung district. Upon arrival, rescue teams found the blue four-tonne truck with its front end significantly damaged. The truck's driver, 35-year-old Thanapol, suffered only minor injuries and remained on the scene to provide information to police officers. Alongside the truck, a dislodged road sign and a damaged security camera pole and control box were noted. Emergency services managed vehicle flow in the often-busy area to prevent traffic disruptions. Thanapol recounted the moments before the collision, mentioning that he was delivering water when he discovered the brakes had ceased to function. Faced with several cars ahead, he opted to steer into the electric pole intentionally. He reasoned that this action was necessary to avoid advancing onto Sukhumvit and colliding with other vehicles, which would potentially result in injuries. Nong Prue police conducted an on-site investigation, documenting the scene and planning to review CCTV footage to assist further proceedings and determinations related to the accident. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

"Ninja Thief" Arrested in Pathum Thani for Serial Thefts Picture courtesy of KhaoSod On April 30, police apprehended Koraphak, known as "Oak" or the "ninja thief," in Pathum Thani province following a warrant issued by Taling Chan Criminal Court for fraud. The 32-year-old admitted to conducting thefts to fund his online gambling addiction and sustain his pet cats. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359429-ninja-thief-arrested-in-pathum-thani-for-serial-thefts/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod On April 30, police apprehended Koraphak, known as "Oak" or the "ninja thief," in Pathum Thani province following a warrant issued by Taling Chan Criminal Court for fraud. The 32-year-old admitted to conducting thefts to fund his online gambling addiction and sustain his pet cats. Police Colonel Chotiwat, from the Metropolitan Police Bureau, initiated the investigation after civic activist Kan Chomphalang identified a suspect posing as a delivery rider, who used a motorcycle to flee with goods. This modus operandi targeted areas within Police Region 1 and the Metropolitan Police's jurisdiction. The investigation uncovered a pattern: Koraphak contacted online sellers to arrange purchases, then escaped with goods without paying. Officers eventually traced and found him hiding under a bed, covered by a wooden board, at his residence. The suspect, with an existing warrant, confessed to over 10 similar thefts. Pol. Col. Napasilp noted initial hesitancy from victims in Lam Luk Ka and surrounding areas to report due to the small amounts stolen. However, thanks to Kan Chomphalang's disclosures, police linked Koraphak to 13 cases, precipitating police intervention. The suspect frequently posed as a delivery rider to exploit sellers’ trust on platforms like Facebook, where he would view items before fleeing. In one instance, he even dragged a victim with his motorcycle, causing the victim to lose consciousness. Kan Chomphalang, alongside victims at a police press conference, noted Koraphak's fame for stealing IT equipment and expressed sympathy for his mother, who must endure the fallout of her son's actions. It's reported that Koraphak has engaged in such activities since age 12, including stealing from his own family. Friends indicated that Koraphak's delivery box came from a betrayed senior and connected his thieving past to vocational school, where thefts reportedly funded his gambling. Police operations led to the swift six-hour capture, coordinated across 15 stations, ensuring Koraphak’s detention and further questioning. Sellers are advised to verify customer identities to avoid similar scams. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

Fire Forces Evacuation from Bangkok Building Due to Underground Blaze Photo: Thai PBS World This morning, tenants were urgently evacuated from an eight-story building on Surasak Road in Bangkok’s Bangrak district after a fire erupted in its underground parking lot. The thick smoke emanating from the blaze was visible from the exterior, prompting immediate evacuation proceedings. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359427-fire-forces-evacuation-from-bangkok-building-due-to-underground-blaze/

Photo: Thai PBS World This morning, tenants were urgently evacuated from an eight-story building on Surasak Road in Bangkok’s Bangrak district after a fire erupted in its underground parking lot. The thick smoke emanating from the blaze was visible from the exterior, prompting immediate evacuation proceedings. According to the building's website, the lower floors are designated for office use, while the upper stories serve as residential spaces. The initial investigation suggests that the fire might have been sparked by electric vehicles parked in the underground area. At the time of reporting, firefighters and rescue workers were striving to contain the fire, while evacuees gathered nearby. The full extent of the damage, including the number of vehicles affected, remains unclear as emergency services work diligently to extinguish the flames completely before they can safely access and assess the lower floors. The situation is still developing, and authorities are expected to conduct a detailed investigation once the site is declared safe. The event highlights the potential risks associated with underground parking in mixed-use buildings, especially concerning electric vehicle safety. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-05-01

Thai Labour Groups Demand Reform on Labour Day Labour day parade in Bangkok | Photo via Thai-Danish Chamber of Commerce On Labour Day, Thai labour organisations have put forth nine pivotal demands aimed at improving workers’ rights and protections. Chief among these is the establishment of a risk insurance fund, deemed essential by Panus Thailuan, President of the National Congress of Thai Labour. This fund would serve to shield workers from unfair dismissals and unpaid severance in cases of business closures. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359425-thai-labour-groups-demand-reform-on-labour-day/

Labour day parade in Bangkok | Photo via Thai-Danish Chamber of Commerce On Labour Day, Thai labour organisations have put forth nine pivotal demands aimed at improving workers’ rights and protections. Chief among these is the establishment of a risk insurance fund, deemed essential by Panus Thailuan, President of the National Congress of Thai Labour. This fund would serve to shield workers from unfair dismissals and unpaid severance in cases of business closures. To create this fund, amendments to existing labour protection laws are proposed, requiring employer contributions to ensure compensation for employees when businesses shut down without settling dues. A notable demand is the revision of Ministerial Regulation No. 7 from 1998, which currently stipulates a disparity in overtime pay rates between salaried and daily-wage workers. The Labour Ministry has recognised this issue and aims to amend the regulation by June, ensuring monthly salaried employees receive overtime pay at 1.5 times their wage, consistent with daily-wage workers. Other critical demands include securing the right to association and collective bargaining, tax exemptions on lump-sum payments up to one million baht for dismissed employees, inclusion of state enterprise employees in the social security system, a minimum pension of 5,000 baht, lifetime healthcare for retirees, stricter enforcement of labour regulations, and improved worker safety standards. Labour groups have also called for a task force to monitor the government’s progress in addressing these issues. In tandem with these demands, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has urged the government to protect the rights of all worker categories, including formal, informal, migrant, and gig economy workers. The NHRC cited ongoing concerns like wage theft and social security exclusion as pressing issues affecting these groups. In Phuket, top officials are echoing the call for proper adherence to social security regulations, warning business owners of the legal and ethical implications of failing to register and contribute to the social security system. The Phuket Social Security Office emphasises the importance of these contributions as financial safeguards for workers. The collective push from labour groups and human rights advocates reflects a growing demand for comprehensive reforms and protections to enhance the livelihoods and rights of workers across Thailand. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

EU-Thailand FTA Negotiations Progress Despite Political Challenges File photo for reference only Negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Thailand and the European Union are progressing well, according to Bernd Lange, Chair of the Committee on International Trade and European Parliament member. Despite historical political uncertainties in Thailand, both parties aim to finalise the agreement by the end of the year. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359424-eu-thailand-fta-negotiations-progress-despite-political-challenges/

File photo for reference only Negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Thailand and the European Union are progressing well, according to Bernd Lange, Chair of the Committee on International Trade and European Parliament member. Despite historical political uncertainties in Thailand, both parties aim to finalise the agreement by the end of the year. Lange noted that crafting such comprehensive trade agreements is a complex process, often comprising around 500 pages of conditions and articles. “The progress is really good,” Lange reassured in a recent online interview with Thai PBS World, while acknowledging the time required to reach a final decision. The FTA talks, which first began in March 2013, were interrupted by Thailand’s political instability following the 2014 military coup. However, negotiations resumed in March 2023, renewing hopes for a successful trade partnership. In light of global economic uncertainties, particularly due to US tariff policies, Lange emphasised the importance of cooperation between the EU and ASEAN countries. While an overarching FTA with all ASEAN nations is currently impractical, Lange is optimistic about bilateral agreements. He recently led a delegation to Indonesia to expedite an agreement there and noted that the EU already has FTAs with Singapore and Vietnam, leading to a 20% increase in EU investment in ASEAN. The EU hopes to collaborate with ASEAN on renewable energy projects, reinforcing its role as a dependable trading partner. Lange underscored that, unlike current US trade policies, the EU offers stability and predictability in its trade relations. As Thai-EU negotiations move forward, there is optimism that this FTA could enhance economic ties and foster greater collaboration, contributing to economic stability in the region. Both parties continue to work towards a mutually beneficial agreement amid the dynamic global trade environment. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-05-01

Commerce Ministry Unveils "Back to School 2025" Discounts File photo for reference only The Commerce Ministry has rolled out its "Back to School 2025" campaign, offering discounts of up to 74% on 8,000 educational items. This initiative is designed to ease financial pressures on parents and stimulate economic activity ahead of the new school term. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359423-commerce-ministry-unveils-back-to-school-2025-discounts/

File photo for reference only The Commerce Ministry has rolled out its "Back to School 2025" campaign, offering discounts of up to 74% on 8,000 educational items. This initiative is designed to ease financial pressures on parents and stimulate economic activity ahead of the new school term. Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan announced that the campaign is a collaborative effort with over 50 producers, wholesalers, retailers, and online marketplaces. From April 30 to May 31, products and services will be sold at reduced prices across 24,924 stores nationwide and through various online platforms. Items on offer include school uniforms, shoes, stationery, textbooks, educational materials, tutoring services, internet packages, and even musical instruments. Parents can expect to save more than 300 million baht, with the campaign projected to circulate 900 million baht in the economy. Additionally, the ministry has partnered with the private sector on projects to cut living costs for Thais, thereby boosting the economy. These projects involve reducing rental fees in wet markets, lowering postal fees, providing sales space for seniors through the "Choojai Seniors 60+" programme, and collaborating with retailers on essential item promotions. Minister Pichai highlighted that these initiatives have injected over 30 billion baht into the economy and are part of the ministry’s broader effort to enhance people’s livelihoods. Despite rising production costs, the ministry has kept inflation levels stable. In fact, last year's inflation rate was managed to a mere 0.4%, a figure well below initial projections, thanks to adept price management strategies. This "Back to School" campaign, along with other economic initiatives, underscores the government's commitment to supporting families and stimulating economic growth amidst changing economic conditions. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-05-01

EC Seeks to Revoke Senator Keskamol's Voting Rights Over Qualification Misrepresentation Photo via Keskamol Pleansamai/Facebook The Election Commission (EC) is poised to petition the Supreme Court in a bid to strip Senator Keskamol Pleansamai of her voting rights. This move follows allegations that Keskamol misled the public regarding her academic qualifications during her Senate campaign in June 2024. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359422-ec-seeks-to-revoke-senator-keskamols-voting-rights-over-qualification-misrepresentation/

Photo via Keskamol Pleansamai/Facebook The Election Commission (EC) is poised to petition the Supreme Court in a bid to strip Senator Keskamol Pleansamai of her voting rights. This move follows allegations that Keskamol misled the public regarding her academic qualifications during her Senate campaign in June 2024. At the heart of the controversy is Keskamol’s claim of holding a professorship and a PhD from California University, assertions that helped her secure the most votes in the final polling round on June 26. However, the EC’s investigation revealed discrepancies, noting that while California University serves as a foreign credential evaluation body, its certificates are not accredited by Thai authorities. This discrepancy violates Section 77 of the 2018 Senate election law, which prohibits misleading declarations to deceive voters. Keskamol, who does hold a legitimate medical degree from Rangsit University, faced further criticism on social media about her self-proclaimed multiple graduate degrees and professorial title. Furthermore, the Medical Council of Thailand clarified that she is not certified as a skin specialist, thus should not label herself as such. In addition to her political career, Keskamol owns four beauty clinics with substantial online exposure. Interestingly, she opted to join the Freelance Workers group rather than the Public Health group in the Senate election. If found guilty under Section 77, Keskamol could face substantial legal repercussions: a prison sentence of one to ten years and/or fines between 20,000 and 200,000 baht, coupled with a potential 20-year disqualification from voting. Should the Supreme Court accept the EC's case, Keskamol would need to suspend her duties as a senator while awaiting a verdict. Adding to her legal battles, Keskamol is facing another complaint of possible collusion during last year’s Senate election. EC Chairman Ittiporn Boonpracong recently announced that the commission aims to complete its inquiry into alleged election fraud by the end of this month. Concurrently, the Department of Special Investigation is probing related accusations of vote-rigging and money laundering connected to the election. This unfolding saga underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in the electoral process, as well as the stringent measures in place to uphold the integrity of Thai politics. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-01

Supreme Court to Probe Enforcement of Thaksin’s Prison Sentence File photo for reference only Today, the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Holders of Political Office has decided to hold an inquiry on June 13th to investigate whether the prison sentence of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been enforced properly. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359420-supreme-court-to-probe-enforcement-of-thaksin’s-prison-sentence/

File photo for reference only Today, the Supreme Court’s Criminal Division for Holders of Political Office has decided to hold an inquiry on June 13th to investigate whether the prison sentence of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been enforced properly. The decision emerged amidst ongoing doubts regarding the enforcement of Thaksin’s prison term by the Corrections Department. In contrast, the court dismissed a petition by former Democrat MP Charnchai Issarasena seeking an inquiry into Thaksin’s six-month controversial stay at the Police General Hospital, citing that Charnchai is not a directly injured party. In this upcoming inquiry, key figures have been summoned, including the governor of the Bangkok Remand Prison—designated as Thaksin’s initial place of incarceration—the director-general of the Corrections Department, the chief doctor at the Police General Hospital, and the prosecutor involved in Thaksin’s case. Thaksin was initially sentenced to eight years in prison for corruption but later received a Royal commutation reducing the term to one year. However, he spent six months in the Police General Hospital, later released on parole due to age-related considerations. This inquiry follows multiple attempts by Charnchai to have previous court rulings revisited. He has persistently sought to have Thaksin returned to prison, challenging the Corrections Department’s decisions. The Supreme Court, in its past rulings, emphasized that the enforcement of Thaksin’s imprisonment and his conditional medical treatments were managed within the appropriate remit and authority of the Corrections Department. As the inquiry date approaches, the focus will remain on the legality of the Corrections Department's actions and whether the measures taken in Thaksin's case adhered to judicial protocols. This inquiry is crucial for addressing public concerns around the enforcement of justice and ensuring transparency in politically sensitive legal matters. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-05-01

Pattaya Officials Crack Down on Unauthorised Signs in Public Spaces Advertisement signs advertised on electricity poles in Pattaya | Photo via Pattaya Mail Pattaya City officials have initiated a campaign urging residents and visitors to stop attaching signs or writing on public property, such as electrical poles and other municipal infrastructure. This movement aims to preserve the city’s cleanliness, orderliness, and aesthetic charm. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359418-pattaya-officials-crack-down-on-unauthorised-signs-in-public-spaces/