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Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A tragic accident marked the beginning of the Seven Dangerous Days in the northern province of Phayao, as a 19 year old lost his life after crashing his motorcycle into a roadside power pole. The accident occurred yesterday, December 25 on the first day of the safety campaign, aimed at reducing road accidents during the new year period. Police were alerted to the accident involving a motorcycle collision with a power pole, which resulted in one fatality on the Nakhon Sawan-Chiang Rai road in Ban Mae Ka Nong Kaeo, Mae Ka subdistrict, Mueang Phayao district. Officers, including forensic medical personnel from Phayao Hospital, swiftly coordinated with rescue teams from the Lee Cha Phayao Foundation, Fa Mui Ambulance Service, and Mae Ka Subdistrict Municipality’s emergency services to inspect the scene. A white Honda motorcycle with the registration 1 กข 434 Phayao was found with its front severely damaged, embedded into the power pole by the roadside. Nearby, the body of the 19 year old male rider was discovered. He suffered severe head and facial injuries due to the violent impact. Police initially found no other parties involved in the accident. It is suspected that the young man was riding at high speed and lost control, leading to the crash into the power pole. To determine the exact cause of the accident, officials will examine footage from nearby CCTV cameras. The deceased’s body was transported to the hospital, awaiting family arrangements for religious rites. “This accident represents the first casualty in Phayao following the announcement of the Seven Dangerous Days campaign, which spans from December 25 to December 31.” This tragic accident underscores the importance of road safety, especially during periods labelled as particularly hazardous. The Seven Dangerous Days campaign is an annual initiative aimed at raising awareness and reducing road accidents during the festive season when travel significantly increases. This period often sees a rise in traffic-related incidents due to factors such as increased travel volume, alcohol consumption, and sometimes adverse weather conditions, reported KhaoSod. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-26

Rescue mission underway for lost students in Kanchanaburi forest By Nattapong Westwood Rescue teams are working to assist a group of Mahidol University students and lecturers who became lost in the forest in Kanchanaburi during a geology field operation. While initial reports mentioned injuries among the group, all members are now confirmed to be safe. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347159-search-for-students-and-teacher-lost-in-kanchanaburi-forest/#findComment-19471527

Rescue mission underway for lost students in Kanchanaburi forest By Nattapong Westwood Rescue teams are working to assist a group of Mahidol University students and lecturers who became lost in the forest in Kanchanaburi during a geology field operation. While initial reports mentioned injuries among the group, all members are now confirmed to be safe. The incident came to light after a Facebook user, Persia Jongtawon, posted an urgent message accompanied by photos on December 25 at 4 p.m. The post read: “Urgent: a rescue team is being dispatched to assist students and a lecturer lost in the forest near Mahidol University, Kanchanaburi.” Further details were shared in a rescue operation chat group, where it was noted that the lecturer had attempted to navigate the group to safety but faced challenges due to thorn injuries and depleted water supplies, reported KhaoSod. An update from the Facebook page เจ๊ม้อย v+ later confirmed progress in the rescue mission. “The rescue team has located the students and lecturer lost in the Sai Yok forest. Everyone is safe, and the location is near Ban Tha Kathi, Soi Lum Sum, Chong Sadao Subdistrict, Mueang District, Kanchanaburi,” the post stated. It added that the rescue team was in the process of bringing the group down from the mountain, a challenging operation given the steep and rugged terrain. The incident involved a geology expedition team from Mahidol University, which had been divided into three groups. Groups 2 and 3 returned safely, but Group 1, led by Doctor Parinya Buddhaphiban, an advisor to the Vice President of Mahidol University’s Kanchanaburi Campus and a geology expert, faced difficulties during the survey. Students rescue Dr Parinya’s team included Doctor Sutascha Hongsrisawat, a lecturer in the Department of Geology, a geology professor from Beijing, China, five geology students from Mahidol University’s Kanchanaburi Campus, and one geology student from Beijing. The team began their survey early yesterday morning, December 25, exploring a mountainous region near Ban Tha Kathi, Village 6, Chong Sadao subdistrict. Although their route had been pre-mapped, the lack of mobile signal disrupted communication, leading to temporary disorientation. By 5.30pm, rescue teams from the Pitak Foundation, aided by local villagers, located the group. The rescue process is ongoing due to the challenging terrain, but no serious injuries have been reported ch7. Dr Parinya later clarified that the group was not lost but had delayed their return as nightfall approached more quickly than anticipated during the winter season. Concerned about the students’ safety, he sought help from local guides to ensure the team could exit the area safely before dark. Full story: [source name + source link] -- 2024-12-26

Aussie father fights to survive and heal after losing son to tsunami By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Christopher Hopkins from The Guardian via inkl Boxing Day 2004 started as a serene tropical morning for an Australian father, his wife, and their 16 year old son in a beachfront hotel in Phuket. But in moments, tranquillity gave way to catastrophe. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347234-aussie-father-fights-to-survive-and-heal-after-losing-son-to-tsunami/

Photo courtesy of Christopher Hopkins from The Guardian via inkl By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Boxing Day 2004 started as a serene tropical morning for an Australian father, his wife, and their 16 year old son in a beachfront hotel in Phuket. But in moments, tranquillity gave way to catastrophe. “We were admiring the view, and all of a sudden, the water disappeared.” What seemed like an intriguing phenomenon – fish floundering on the exposed seabed – soon became a nightmare. Curious onlookers flocked to the shore, unaware that 550 kilometres away, a 9.15-magnitude earthquake had unleashed a monstrous tsunami. As the ocean roared back with walls of water up to 30 metres high, 67 year old Aussie, Joe Giardina, tried desperately to protect his son, Paul, who had Down’s syndrome. Holding his son against a hotel pillar, Giardina was swept away by the sheer force of the wave. “The last thing I recall is opening my mouth underwater. The lights went off.” Tragically, Paul was among 26 Australians killed in the disaster, which claimed over 230,000 lives across 14 countries. Giardina miraculously survived, found headfirst on a staircase with his lungs filled with sand. His wife, Evanna, swept to a hotel balcony, was reunited with him unscathed. Despite extensive injuries and the devastating loss of their son, the couple found solace in recovering their son’s body. “If we hadn’t, we’d still be searching.” Years later, the Aussie father helped create the Indian Ocean Tsunami Memorial in Canberra, a wave-shaped tribute overlooking the water, symbolising loss and resilience. Returning to Phuket often, he refuses to let the tsunami define his family’s story. “We had 16 beautiful years with Paul. Life is what it is. You learn to live with the pain, but you appreciate every day.” Today, the Giardinas will visit the memorial again, cherishing their son’s memory while finding strength in his enduring spirit, reported inkl. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-26

Krabi Ferry Crew Drug Tests Lead to Suspensions, Rehab Plans File photo for reference only In a recent crackdown, police in Krabi conducted surprise drug tests on ferry operators and crew at Koh Lanta, revealing several individuals' drug use. Those who tested positive, identified by purple urine, were immediately suspended and will now undergo rehabilitation efforts. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347232-krabi-ferry-crew-drug-tests-lead-to-suspensions-rehab-plans/

File photo for reference only In a recent crackdown, police in Krabi conducted surprise drug tests on ferry operators and crew at Koh Lanta, revealing several individuals' drug use. Those who tested positive, identified by purple urine, were immediately suspended and will now undergo rehabilitation efforts. This joint operation, involving local administrative officials and regional marine department personnel, targeted crew at Saladan Pier, a key hub for tourists. Beyond the drug tests, officials scrutinised safety practices, ensuring operators held valid licences and that ferries were equipped with essential safety gear. As the holiday season approaches, bringing an influx of tourists to Krabi’s renowned marine attractions, officials have extended these rigorous safety checks to the ferry services at Koh Phi Phi Pier. This focus aims to uphold the region's reputation as a safe, reliable tourist destination. Authorities have stressed the critical importance of these measures, particularly during this busy period, highlighting a commitment to maintaining high standards and ensuring visitor safety. The proactive approach underscores the importance of safety and compliance in promoting tourism in the thriving Krabi region. -- 2024-12-26

South Korean Fugitive Arrested in Thai Condo for Massive Gambling Scam File photo for reference only Jung, a 33-year-old South Korean national, was arrested by Thai immigration officials on December 25 in a high-end condominium in Pattaya. Sought for his alleged role in a major illegal gambling ring, Jung was found with South Korean and Vanuatu passports. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347231-south-korean-fugitive-arrested-in-thai-condo-for-massive-gambling-scam/

File photo for reference only Jung, a 33-year-old South Korean national, was arrested by Thai immigration officials on December 25 in a high-end condominium in Pattaya. Sought for his alleged role in a major illegal gambling ring, Jung was found with South Korean and Vanuatu passports. He was wanted under a South Korean arrest warrant for his links to illegal online gambling networks like Top Plus Bet and B-Plus. These groups had been operating illegally in South Korea for over five years, using 80 bank accounts to launder money amounting to over 592.6 billion won (about 15 billion baht or US$438 million). Jung allegedly managed the operations, databases, and fund distribution of these networks. After a police crackdown in South Korea, he fled to Thailand to evade arrest. During his apprehension, authorities seized computers, phones, and other electronics. It was also revealed that Jung had overstayed his visa in Thailand. He is currently detained and awaiting deportation. -- 2024-12-26

Teenage Knife Attack at Thai Tourist Spot Sparks Youth Violence Fears File photo for reference only An unsettling incident occurred at a tourist site in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, where a third-year secondary school girl stabbed a fifth-year student with a folding knife. The altercation took place at Ban Wang Yao, Phrom Khiri district, on Christmas Eve, injuring the older student and sparking concerns about youth violence. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347228-teenage-knife-attack-at-thai-tourist-spot-sparks-youth-violence-fears/

File photo for reference only An unsettling incident occurred at a tourist site in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, where a third-year secondary school girl stabbed a fifth-year student with a folding knife. The altercation took place at Ban Wang Yao, Phrom Khiri district, on Christmas Eve, injuring the older student and sparking concerns about youth violence. Veerasak Srithong, head of the Phrom Khiri Police Station, reported that the injured student is stable but still hospitalized. The assailant is currently under her parents' and school authorities' supervision. An investigation is ongoing, following protocols for minors to ensure a fair process. The injured student's mother plans to take legal action, seeking justice for her child. Police are cautiously handling the case, adhering to juvenile laws to protect the students' well-being. Meanwhile, the school is taking steps to prevent further conflicts among students, with teachers and staff closely monitoring the situation. Witnesses described a scene of about 40 to 50 students enjoying their outing before the sudden altercation caused panic and confusion. School officials noted that the incident happened off school grounds and was unrelated to school activities. Nevertheless, the school is actively working with parents, local police, and students to address the issue and prevent escalation, focusing on maintaining a safe and peaceful environment for everyone involved. -- 2024-12-26

20th anniversary: Phuket looks back on Boxing Day tsunami By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Chai Shop Films Two decades after the catastrophic Indian Ocean Tsunami, communities along Thailand’s Andaman coast, including Phuket, gathered today, Boxing Day, to honour the lives lost and reflect on the lessons learned from that fateful day in 2004. The disaster claimed an estimated 230,000 to 280,000 lives across multiple countries, with Thailand designating December 26 as National Disaster Prevention Day in its wake. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347180-remembering-the-2004-tsunami-in-phuket/#findComment-19471551

Phetchabun family’s loss turns into gift of life for four By Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of KhaoSod A significant act of compassion unfolded at Phetchabun Hospital, where a family decided to donate the organs of a 42 year old programmer who was declared brain dead. This generous donation is set to benefit four individuals in need. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347226-phetchabun-family’s-loss-turns-into-gift-of-life-for-four/

Photo courtesy of KhaoSod By Puntid Tantivangphaisal A significant act of compassion unfolded at Phetchabun Hospital, where a family decided to donate the organs of a 42 year old programmer who was declared brain dead. This generous donation is set to benefit four individuals in need. Chawalit Iamsaad, who hailed from Bueng Sam Phan district in Phetchabun, was employed as a programmer for PTT, working remotely from home. On Monday morning, December 23, his sister discovered him collapsed outside the bathroom. Medical assistance was immediately summoned, and he was transported to Bueng Sam Phan Hospital before being transferred to Phetchabun Hospital. Unfortunately, doctors later confirmed that Chawalit had suffered brain death due to severe bleeding in the brain, which is considered a medical form of death. The family, understanding the profound implications of organ donation, embraced the opportunity to contribute to the well-being of others. Chawalit’s sister, 37 year old Ketsinee, shared that her brother was known for his charitable nature, making this decision a fitting tribute to his life. She added that she had already registered her intention to donate her organs with the Thai Red Cross Society, indicating her support for such initiatives. “This is a significant act of charity by my brother, as the organs donated can offer new life to several individuals.” At the hospital, Doctor Srisuda Songthamwat, the director of Phetchabun Hospital, formally recognised the family’s generosity. She presented a certificate of appreciation and a wreath in honour of the deceased. Chawalit’s mother and sister accepted these tokens of gratitude on behalf of the family. Doctor Srisuda elaborated on the medical condition of the patient, explaining that despite comprehensive medical efforts, Chawalit’s condition was irreversible. The donated organs, including two kidneys and two eyes, have the potential to save or significantly improve the lives of up to four individuals. She hopes this act of kindness will inspire others in Phetchabun and across Thailand to consider organ donation, reported KhaoSod. “Giving organs to others is a great act of charity, offering the gift of life to those in need.” Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-26

Thai serial rapist who targets elderly women remains on the run By Petch Petpailin Photo via Matichon Two elderly Thai women sought help from the Pavena Foundation for Children and Women after a rapist who sexually assaulted them in a paddy field in the Isaan province of Nakhon Ratchasima remains at large for months. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347221-thai-serial-rapist-who-targets-elderly-women-remains-on-the-run/

Photo via Matichon By Petch Petpailin Two elderly Thai women sought help from the Pavena Foundation for Children and Women after a rapist who sexually assaulted them in a paddy field in the Isaan province of Nakhon Ratchasima remains at large for months. The two senior victims, who are cousins, met the foundation’s founder, Pavena Hongsakul, at the foundation office in the central province of Pathum Thani on December 24. They reported the matter to the Bua Yai Police Station in Nakhon Ratchasima, but no progress has been made. The first victim, 68 year old Noi, revealed to Pavena and Thai news agencies that the incident occurred in broad daylight on August 8. She, her husband, and her sister had been working in a rice field 500 metres from her home. Her husband and sister returned home before her, leaving her working in the paddy alone. The rapist, who was wearing a black balaclava, approached her, strangled her, and dragged her behind a well. The suspect demanded money, but she had none. He then raped and threatened to kill her if she made any noise. Noi’s cousin, 78 year old Sa later became a victim of sexual assault and rape a few months later on December 14. They believe the perpetrator to be the same man. Sa recounted that the incident took place in her rice field which is not far from Noi’s. The rapist strangled her and warned her not to look at him. He stole 420 baht in cash from her before tying her up and raping her. The sexual assaults have instilled fear among women in the community, both young and old. The police have not provided the victims or other locals with updates on their investigation. Fearing that the rapist might strike again, the women decided to bring the matter to the foundation. Pavena promised to follow up on the case and will request intervention from the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Police to prevent further sexual assaults in the area and its surroundings. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-26

Thai influencer dies after alcohol stunt for 30,000 baht By Nattapong Westwood Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Bank Leicester, a well-known Thai influencer, has tragically died after being hired to consume an excessive amount of alcohol in exchange for 30,000 baht (US$880). Known for his unique approach of rapping while selling garlands to support his grandmother, Bank had gained significant popularity online. His untimely death occurred at approximately 3.40am, reportedly due to the drinking challenge. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347220-thai-influencer-dies-after-alcohol-stunt-for-30000-baht/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod By Nattapong Westwood Bank Leicester, a well-known Thai influencer, has tragically died after being hired to consume an excessive amount of alcohol in exchange for 30,000 baht (US$880). Known for his unique approach of rapping while selling garlands to support his grandmother, Bank had gained significant popularity online. His untimely death occurred at approximately 3.40am, reportedly due to the drinking challenge. Bank, whose real name is Thanakarn Gandhi, was 21 year old. His story of overcoming adversity and poverty had resonated with many. Born into a family of modest means in a slum community, Bank’s parents separated when he was only two months old. By the age of seven, he was selling garlands as his primary income, but his life took a turn when he began incorporating rap into his sales technique. This innovative approach quickly made him famous. Bank’s income from his garland sales often ranged between 6,000 and 10,000 baht (US$175 to 292) per day. However, his path was not without challenges. On one occasion, a group of four teenagers bullied him into eating pork bones, promising to buy all his garlands, only to deceive him afterward. This incident left Bank feeling deeply saddened and reflective about his life. His rise to fame was marked by controversy, particularly following his appearance on a popular Thai talk show, where he made several claims involving well-known personalities. Bank spoke of having to drop out of school following a car accident that left him with a disability. Influencer death Despite this, he claimed to have purchased a house worth 10 million baht (US$292,483) and was continuing his education at Sarasas School, funded by a famous producer, Poj Anon. He also boasted a grade point average of 3.1. During the same talk show, Bank alleged interactions with various celebrities, including meeting Moddam Kachapha at the GMM Grammy studio, who purportedly introduced him to Bird Thongchai, a famous Thai singer. Bank claimed Bird had invited him to perform at a concert. Additionally, Bank credited his rapping inspiration to well-known Thai rappers Joey Boy and Twopee. Beyond garland selling, Bank had also worked as a video editor for a YouTube channel, showcasing his versatility. He further claimed to have been an independent actor, involved in several television dramas and films, and mentioned upcoming concerts with the artist Milli in Singapore and England, expressing gratitude for the opportunities he received. However, following the broadcast of the talk show, Poj Anon publicly criticised the program for inviting Bank without verifying his background or the veracity of his claims. Poj Anon clarified that he had never supported or even met Bank, reported KhaoSod. Similarly, another celebrity, Tukky Ching Roi, stated that Bank had visited the Workpoint studio and taken photos with famous personalities, which he then reportedly used to falsely associate himself with them. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-26

Phuket duo swipes 600 euros from Belgian with a fake hug By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ Police yesterday, December 25, arrested a Thai woman and a transwoman for pretending to greet a Belgian man with a hug and stealing 600 euros in cash (approximately 21,000 baht) from him in the Patong area of Phuket. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347219-phuket-duo-swipes-600-euros-from-belgian-with-a-fake-hug/

Photo via Facebook/ Phuket Times ภูเก็ตไทม์ By Petch Petpailin Police yesterday, December 25, arrested a Thai woman and a transwoman for pretending to greet a Belgian man with a hug and stealing 600 euros in cash (approximately 21,000 baht) from him in the Patong area of Phuket. The 58 year old Belgian victim filed a complaint with Patong Police Station officers at around 5am on December 22, reporting that he had lost his cash to Thai thieves while walking along Rat-Uthit 200 Pi Road in the Patong sub-district of Kathu district. The Belgian man stated that the Thai woman and transwoman approached him and unexpectedly hugged him on the street, after which he discovered his cash was missing. Officers reviewed security camera footage along the road and successfully tracked down both suspects at their residences. The 33 year old transwoman, whose name has not been disclosed, was found in possession of 0.9 grammes of crystal methamphetamine. Another suspect, a 38 year old Thai woman, whose identity has also not been revealed, was arrested with methamphetamine tablets, commonly known as Yaba, in her possession. The pair now face two charges: Section 336 of the Criminal Code: Committing theft, which carries a penalty of up to five years’ imprisonment and a fine of up to 10,000 baht. Section 162 of the Narcotics Control Act: Use of a Category 1 drug (methamphetamine), punishable by up to one year in prison, a fine of up to 20,000 baht, or both. Source: The Thaiger -- 2024-12-26

Thailand's New Year Campaign Battles Drunk Driving amid Road Struggles File photo for reference only Thailand is launching the "Don't Drink and Drive, Get Home Safely" campaign to reduce road accidents during New Year celebrations. The campaign includes public service messages, random sobriety checks, and increased police patrols to combat the rise in alcohol-related road deaths during the holidays. A government spokesperson urged people to avoid driving after drinking. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347076-thailands-new-year-campaign-battles-drunk-driving-amid-road-struggles/

File photo for reference only Thailand is launching the "Don't Drink and Drive, Get Home Safely" campaign to reduce road accidents during New Year celebrations. The campaign includes public service messages, random sobriety checks, and increased police patrols to combat the rise in alcohol-related road deaths during the holidays. A government spokesperson urged people to avoid driving after drinking. However, the campaign faces challenges like Thailand's cultural norm of social drinking and inconsistent law enforcement. Police often struggle with enforcing laws, reducing the campaign’s effectiveness. Transport options pose another issue, particularly outside Bangkok where public transit is limited at night. With taxis and ride-shares being costly during peak times, many people have no option but to drive. Economic constraints, along with peer pressure and party atmospheres, often lead drivers to underestimate the effects of alcohol. Critics suggest this campaign risks being seen as a mere PR move without visible, lasting change. Experts believe that while the initiative is commendable, it must be accompanied by stricter enforcement, better public transport, and cultural awareness to make real progress in road safety. -- 2024-12-24

Bangkok Lowers Speed Limit to 60 km/h Amid Safety Push File photo for reference only Bangkok officials, as announced by the Royal Gazette on December 24, have implemented a new speed limit across the city as part of an effort to improve road safety. The speed limit on most roads has been reduced from 80 km/h to 60 km/h, except on 13 major roads where the usual speed limits will remain intact. The roads exempt from this change include Vibhavadi-Rangsit and Bangna Trat, among others. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347074-bangkok-lowers-speed-limit-to-60-kmh-amid-safety-push/

File photo for reference only Bangkok officials, as announced by the Royal Gazette on December 24, have implemented a new speed limit across the city as part of an effort to improve road safety. The speed limit on most roads has been reduced from 80 km/h to 60 km/h, except on 13 major roads where the usual speed limits will remain intact. The roads exempt from this change include Vibhavadi-Rangsit and Bangna Trat, among others. Around the royal area, motorists are further encouraged to reduce their speed to 50 km/h on roads such as Ratchadamnoen and Na Phra That. Additionally, creating loud noises like honking is now prohibited in these royal vicinities. This initiative, led by the Metropolitan Police Bureau, comes in response to road safety concerns, as speeding is a leading cause of accidents in Bangkok. Failure to adhere to these speed limits can result in fines ranging from 200 to 1,000 baht, depending on traffic officers’ discretion. Deputy Commissioner Thawat Wongsa-nga clarified the necessity of these changes, citing that Bangkok remains one of the few major cities without such a speed regulation. The use of technology, including cameras, will aid in enforcing these new rules. While some Thai motorists have expressed concerns over the adjustments, officials are committed to enhancing road safety and aiming to decrease accidents in the bustling city. -- 2024-12-24

Thai woman brtually assaulted by neighbour over wandering ducks By Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath A Thai woman in the central province of Chantaburi sought justice for her mother, who was physically assaulted by a female neighbour after two ducks wandered into the neighbour‘s residence. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347073-thai-woman-brtually-assaulted-by-neighbour-over-wandering-ducks/