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Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police in Phetchaburi's Cha-am district arrested four women suspected of drug use following a tip-off from a local resident. The incident unfolded on March 11, when Cha-am Police Station officers received intelligence about drug activities in the Tri Pool Villa area of Mueang Cha-am. Led by Police Colonel Aphirak Permchai, Deputy Superintendent of Investigation, Police Colonel Theerapong Raksawiang, and Police Lieutenant Colonel Aphichat Phothia, the police team swiftly executed a planned raid on the premises. Upon entering, they encountered individuals outside and discovered four women inside a room exhibiting signs of drug use. During questioning, the suspects confessed to using ketamine. A subsequent search revealed ketamine on an ironing board within the room. The women, identified as Deer from Samut Prakan and Thipawan, admitted ownership and consumption of the drug prior to police arrival. The other two women also tested positive for drug use. Police gathered evidence and escorted the four women to investigators for further legal proceedings. Urine tests conducted on other individuals at the location yielded negative results, and they were released without charges. This arrest highlights ongoing efforts by local authorities to address drug-related activities in the region, responding to community concerns with swift and effective action, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

Thailand Updates Rules on Unregistered Cohabitation as Marital Status Picture courtesy of Elizabeth Tsung, Unsplash The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has revised its criteria concerning cohabitation without marriage registration, effective from January 22. These new guidelines, signed by NACC Chairman Sucahart Trakul Kasemsuk and published in the Royal Gazette, align with the amended Civil and Commercial Code, bringing clarity to the status of unregistered cohabitations considered as marital relationships. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354282-thailand-updates-rules-on-unregistered-cohabitation-as-marital-status/

Picture courtesy of Elizabeth Tsung, Unsplash The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has revised its criteria concerning cohabitation without marriage registration, effective from January 22. These new guidelines, signed by NACC Chairman Sucahart Trakul Kasemsuk and published in the Royal Gazette, align with the amended Civil and Commercial Code, bringing clarity to the status of unregistered cohabitations considered as marital relationships. Known as the Criteria for People Cohabiting as Spouses Without Marriage Registration (No. 2) B.E. 2568, the update supersedes the previous 2561 guidelines. The changes aim to ensure coherence with the revised Civil and Commercial Code (No. 24) of 2567, specifically by repealing Clause 3 of the earlier guidelines and implementing updated conditions. Under the new regulations, individuals cohabiting with state officials, without formal marriage registration, can be recognised as spouses under the Organic Act on Anti-Corruption B.E. 2561, provided they meet certain criteria. These include: 1. Conducting a marriage ceremony or similar event acknowledged by family or the community, reflecting a traditional marital status. 2. The state official presenting themselves as married or widely accepted publicly in this role, even if previously divorced but continuing to display marital status publicly. These guidelines aim to reflect both societal norms and legal acknowledgment of cohabiting relationships, providing clarity in statuses that affect legal and anti-corruption frameworks. This update signifies a step towards recognising diverse forms of partnership beyond the conventional registered marriages in Thai society, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

Thailand’s Labour Minister Pushes for National Minimum Wage Increase to 400 Baht Workers from three subcontractor companies protested on Sukhumvit Road in Chon Buri, over unpaid wages due on July 31, 2024 | Photo via KhaoSod Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn is steadfast in his commitment to raise Thailand's national minimum wage to 400 baht, despite concerns about the impact on small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and inflation. The proposal is to be reviewed by a tripartite wage committee on March 12. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354281-thailand’s-labour-minister-pushes-for-national-minimum-wage-increase-to-400-baht/

Workers from three subcontractor companies protested on Sukhumvit Road in Chon Buri, over unpaid wages due on July 31, 2024 | Photo via KhaoSod Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn is steadfast in his commitment to raise Thailand's national minimum wage to 400 baht, despite concerns about the impact on small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and inflation. The proposal is to be reviewed by a tripartite wage committee on March 12. Addressing concerns in Parliament, Phiphat reiterated his dedication to the wage hike, drawing parallels to the 2012 wage adjustment model used in seven provinces, including Bangkok. After three postponements, the push for a wage increase highlights growing concerns over wage inequality across Thailand. Currently, only a few provinces, including Phuket, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri, Rayong, and Samui district in Surat Thani, are set to implement the 400-baht minimum wage from January 1. Phiphat expressed particular concern about the broader economic impact, especially on SMEs, but remained hopeful about reaching a solution. The wage committee, supported by subcommittees from 76 provinces, is responsible for evaluating the provinces suited to implement this increase. While urging the use of pilot provinces as a test model, Phiphat also suggested applying the 400-baht wage to specific occupations showing economic improvement. If not approved, a second meeting may occur within 15 days. To ease potential economic strain, Phiphat discussed measures like tax deductions for businesses and lower employer contributions to the Social Security Fund. The Labour Ministry has identified 129 occupations eligible for the new minimum wage, though 13 occupations will remain below the threshold. As the committee nears the end of its term, Phiphat's determination underlines the importance of addressing wage disparities while balancing economic stability, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

Thailand Joins BRICS, Strengthening Economic and Global Alliances Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa | Photo via AmbPoohMaris/X Thailand’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Maris Sangiampongsa, has robustly defended the nation’s recent decision to join the BRICS alliance, asserting that it aligns well with national interests and will provide significant economic and cooperative benefits. Addressing the Senate on March 10, Maris outlined the strategic advantages of Thailand's inclusion in this powerful bloc of emerging markets. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354280-thailand-joins-brics-strengthening-economic-and-global-alliances/

Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa | Photo via AmbPoohMaris/X Thailand’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Maris Sangiampongsa, has robustly defended the nation’s recent decision to join the BRICS alliance, asserting that it aligns well with national interests and will provide significant economic and cooperative benefits. Addressing the Senate on March 10, Maris outlined the strategic advantages of Thailand's inclusion in this powerful bloc of emerging markets. BRICS, featuring Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, along with newly joined partners such as the UAE, Iran, Egypt, and Ethiopia, offers Thailand a substantial platform for addressing global geopolitical issues. Maris highlighted the potential for Thailand to gain from advancements in technology sectors like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and energy security by associating with BRICS. Maris emphasised that joining this partnership positions Thailand within a large and dynamic market, fostering economic growth and international cooperation while promoting multilateralism for balanced global interests. Thailand's involvement with BRICS follows an invitation from Russian President Vladimir Putin, granted when Russia was set to chair the bloc in 2024. Presently, Brazil holds the chairmanship. This move complements Thailand's participation in various international frameworks, including the US-led Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF) and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec). Simultaneously, Thailand continues to engage in significant trade discussions with the European Union, working towards a free trade agreement under the EU-Thailand Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA). The legal ramifications of joining BRICS were assessed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' Department of Treaties and Legal Affairs, which concluded that Thailand's entry did not constitute treaty participation, thus bypassing the need for Parliamentary approval under the constitution's Section 178. As Thailand integrates into the BRICS bloc, it aims to bolster its international standing and economic resilience, tapping into shared resources and innovation while reaffirming its role as a dynamic player on the global stage, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

Thailand Proposes Tax Incentives to Boost Plug-In Hybrid Vehicle Production A plug-in hybrid vehicle charging | Photo via Rathaphon Nanthapreecha/Pexels Thailand is set to revamp its tax incentives for plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) in a bid to stimulate domestic production and adoption. Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul announced the proposal, which plans to link tax rates to a vehicle’s battery charge travel range, with potential implementation from 2026, pending Cabinet approval in April. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354279-thailand-proposes-tax-incentives-to-boost-plug-in-hybrid-vehicle-production/

A plug-in hybrid vehicle charging | Photo via Rathaphon Nanthapreecha/Pexels Thailand is set to revamp its tax incentives for plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs) in a bid to stimulate domestic production and adoption. Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul announced the proposal, which plans to link tax rates to a vehicle’s battery charge travel range, with potential implementation from 2026, pending Cabinet approval in April. The new tax structure marks a shift from the traditional method of taxing vehicles based on carbon emissions. Instead, PHEVs with longer electric ranges will benefit from lower tax rates. This move aims to encourage the manufacturing of more efficient vehicles, helping boost the automotive sector. Significantly, restrictions on fuel tank sizes for PHEVs will be lifted under this proposal. Current tax regulations impose a 5% tax on PHEVs with an electric range over 80 kilometres, while those with less cover face a 10% rate. Details of the proposed system will be clarified post-Cabinet approval. Additionally, Thailand's Excise Department is revising the battery tax structure to favour environmentally sustainable options. The existing flat 8% excise tax on all batteries will transition to a tiered system. Batteries with longer lifespans and higher energy density will have lower tax rates, while disposable batteries will incur higher taxes. As Southeast Asia’s leading automotive production hub, Thailand is keen to revitalise its industry amid a downturn. Auto production dropped by 10% last year, with both domestic sales and exports declining significantly. The influx of investment from Chinese EV manufacturers like BYD and Great Wall Motors, totalling over US$3 billion, underscores the competitive pressure in a sector crucial to Thailand’s GDP. By tailoring tax policies to incentivise innovation and sustainability, Thailand aims to reinforce its position as a key player in the global automotive landscape while adapting to evolving consumer and environmental demands, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

Thailand Seizes 200,000 Illegal E-Cigarette Items in Major Bust Picture courtesy of กรมศุลกากร : The Customs Department Facebook A significant crackdown has led to the seizure of over 200,000 illegally imported e-cigarette items from China, with a total value exceeding 33 million baht. This major operation was unveiled by three Thai ministers on March 10, including Justice Minister Pol. Col. Thavee Sodsong, Minister Jiraphon Sinthuprai, and Deputy Finance Minister Chulaphan Amornwiwat, during a high-profile visit to Laem Chabang Port Customs Office. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354278-thailand-seizes-200000-illegal-e-cigarette-items-in-major-bust/

Picture courtesy of กรมศุลกากร : The Customs Department Facebook A significant crackdown has led to the seizure of over 200,000 illegally imported e-cigarette items from China, with a total value exceeding 33 million baht. This major operation was unveiled by three Thai ministers on March 10, including Justice Minister Pol. Col. Thavee Sodsong, Minister Jiraphon Sinthuprai, and Deputy Finance Minister Chulaphan Amornwiwat, during a high-profile visit to Laem Chabang Port Customs Office. Collaborating with the Department of Special Investigation, Customs Department, and Royal Thai Police, the operation involved inspections of shipping containers, resulting in the discovery of illegal goods including disposable e-cigarettes, e-liquids, and vape pods. The consignment, in breach of the Customs Act of 2017, also contravened the Ministry of Commerce’s 2016 regulations banning certain goods, reiterated by a 2014 declaration categorising such items as prohibited imports. The Customs Department, under the guidance of Director General Teerach Atanavanich and his team, will appraise the seized e-cigarettes before handing them over to the relevant authorities for legal action. The Department of Special Investigation plans to expedite its inquiry to trace those involved in importing and distributing these items, with the goal of effectively deterring the proliferation of e-cigarettes nationwide. By strengthening coordination among national agencies, Thailand aims to underscore its commitment to tackling illegal imports and ensuring the enforcement of stringent measures against e-cigarette distribution, ultimately seeking to preserve public health, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

Thailand Poised for High-Speed Rail Revolution Linking Three Airports Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's grand vision of connecting Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports via high-speed rail is edging closer to reality. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) board is primed for final approvals, with hopes pinned on a Cabinet green light by May. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354277-thailand-poised-for-high-speed-rail-revolution-linking-three-airports/

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Thailand's grand vision of connecting Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi, and U-Tapao airports via high-speed rail is edging closer to reality. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) board is primed for final approvals, with hopes pinned on a Cabinet green light by May. SRT Deputy Governor Anan Phonimdang announced that revamped contract details have already cleared dedicated subcommittees. Awaiting the SRT board's endorsement, the contract will then transit to the Office of the Attorney-General before seeking the Cabinet's final sign-off. Upon approval, Asia Era One, a subsidiary of the Charoen Pokphand Group, stands ready to receive a Notice to Proceed by May, aiming to commence construction as early as June. Initial works will focus on areas around U-Tapao Airport's secondary runway and the bustling Bang Sue–Don Mueang corridor, a critical touchpoint overlapping with the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail project. Strategically using precast rail segments, offsite manufacturing will expedite onsite assembly, minimising disruption. The new line will share tracks with the existing Airport Rail Link (ARL) between Phaya Thai station and Suvarnabhumi, setting the stage for a transformative travel upgrade. While the CP Group deliberates on train models, opting for wider models may necessitate platform enhancements to align with current infrastructure. Spanning nine stations across five provinces, this ambitious 220-kilometre, 271 billion baht project promises future riders rapid commutes under one hour, with trains whizzing at speeds up to 250 km/h. As anticipation builds, this high-speed connection is set to be a game-changer for Thai transport, significantly bolstering connectivity and economic growth in the region, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-11

US Intelligence Chief Tulsi Gabbard Embarks on Diplomatic Asia Tour File photo for reference only Tulsi Gabbard, serving as the US Director of National Intelligence, has embarked on a significant diplomatic trip across Asia. The journey will see her visiting Japan, Thailand, and ultimately India, where she'll participate in the prestigious Rasina Dialogue in New Delhi on March 18, addressing key issues such as counterterrorism and cybersecurity. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354275-us-intelligence-chief-tulsi-gabbard-embarks-on-diplomatic-asia-tour/

File photo for reference only Tulsi Gabbard, serving as the US Director of National Intelligence, has embarked on a significant diplomatic trip across Asia. The journey will see her visiting Japan, Thailand, and ultimately India, where she'll participate in the prestigious Rasina Dialogue in New Delhi on March 18, addressing key issues such as counterterrorism and cybersecurity. Her schedule also includes a visit to France on her return to the US. This marks Gabbard’s second international outing in her current role, having recently attended the Munich Security Conference. Her first stop was Hawaii, a crucial hub for US military and intelligence operations. There, Gabbard engaged with both military and intelligence officers to reinforce intelligence priorities and observe training exercises. Despite the lack of disclosed details regarding her itinerary in Japan and Thailand, her participation in the Rasina Conference highlights her diplomatic priorities. Held under the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the event gathers senior security officials globally, including those from Russia. It's yet unclear if Gabbard will meet Russian representatives amid ongoing US efforts to mediate the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Gabbard's successful discourse on counterterrorism at the Munich Conference earlier this year hints at her potential diplomatic approach during this tour. As the Trump administration pushes for lasting international partnerships, her speeches are expected to emphasise intelligence-sharing and cooperation across new technological frontiers, offering reassurance to US allies in an uncertain political landscape, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-11

29 Tourists Rescued as Speedboat Springs Leak off Krabi Mainland File photo for reference only In a dramatic turn of events on Monday, 29 tourists were rescued after their speedboat began leaking en route from Koh Lipe to Phuket. The incident occurred off the coast of Krabi province, near Koh Poda Nok, when the bottom of the Siriwan Marine 5 speedboat started taking on water due to rough seas. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354274-29-tourists-rescued-as-speedboat-springs-leak-off-krabi-mainland/

File photo for reference only In a dramatic turn of events on Monday, 29 tourists were rescued after their speedboat began leaking en route from Koh Lipe to Phuket. The incident occurred off the coast of Krabi province, near Koh Poda Nok, when the bottom of the Siriwan Marine 5 speedboat started taking on water due to rough seas. The tourists were swiftly assisted by a patrol boat from Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park and the Nanthicha 333 speedboat. Though the tourists' nationalities were not disclosed, the timely intervention averted a potential disaster. The rescue team managed to get all tourists ashore safely, temporarily transferring them to the famed Maya Bay. There, they awaited another vessel to complete their journey to Phuket. Officials reported that the skipper was unable to navigate to Koh Phi Phi because of the continuous water intake, emphasising the severity of the situation. Such incidents underline the importance of safety measures and readiness in tourist hotspots like the Andaman Sea, ensuring visitors can enjoy their travels with peace of mind, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-03-11

UPDATE: British Man Arrested in Krabi for Smuggling 34kg Cannabis A massive 34-kilogram cannabis haul has led to the arrest of a British man at Krabi International Airport, intensifying concerns over drug trafficking in Thailand. The dramatic late-night arrest occurred on March 8, when airport staff discovered a suspicious bag left in the men's bathroom in the International Departures Terminal. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354084-13kg-of-cannabis-found-in-krabi-airport-bathroom-suitcase/#findComment-19648948

British Man Arrested in Krabi for Smuggling 34kg Cannabis A massive 34-kilogram cannabis haul has led to the arrest of a British man at Krabi International Airport, intensifying concerns over drug trafficking in Thailand. The dramatic late-night arrest occurred on March 8, when airport staff discovered a suspicious bag left in the men's bathroom in the International Departures Terminal. Police officials found a blue suitcase packed with 35 packages of cannabis flower buds, carefully vacuum-sealed, weighing a substantial 37.84 kilograms with packaging. Airport security, aided by advanced X-ray screening, uncovered the illegal stash meant to mask any cannabis odours. The suspect, whose identity has been withheld by police, faces serious charges related to drug trafficking and customs violations within Thai law. He is charged with attempting to export undeclared goods and breaching regulations on controlled herbs, according to the Protection and Promotion of Traditional Thai Medicine Wisdom Act. Despite Thailand’s relaxed cannabis laws for domestic use, authorities maintain stringent penalties for trafficking. The case is under investigation, with evidence transferred to Nuea Khlong Police Station for further proceedings. This incident highlights the ongoing vigilance against drug smuggling in Thailand's airports, where authorities are unyielding against such illicit activities. Win Sinhaseni, a cannabis shop owner in Bangkok, expressed disappointment, noting the negative impact on Thailand's cannabis industry. "Punishment is justified to a point. But then again, it's just weed," he remarked. As the legal process unfolds, this arrest serves as a reminder of the risks traffickers face amid Thailand's strict enforcement against drug smuggling, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-10

Construction Standards Questioned After Vibhavadi Road Footpath Collapse Picture courtesy of Drama-addict Facebook A newly constructed footpath along Vibhavadi Road has collapsed just one month after completion, as seen in a viral video shared on the Drama-addict Facebook page. The clip shows the path giving way under the weight of a pedestrian, fortunately resulting in no serious injuries. This incident has ignited widespread criticism on social media platforms, questioning the quality standards upheld by state agencies. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354176-construction-standards-questioned-after-vibhavadi-road-footpath-collapse/

Picture courtesy of Drama-addict Facebook A newly constructed footpath along Vibhavadi Road has collapsed just one month after completion, as seen in a viral video shared on the Drama-addict Facebook page. The clip shows the path giving way under the weight of a pedestrian, fortunately resulting in no serious injuries. This incident has ignited widespread criticism on social media platforms, questioning the quality standards upheld by state agencies. The footpath, supposed to be a safe passage for pedestrians, has become a point of contention as it failed mere weeks after its inauguration. Public outcry demands accountability and improvements in construction quality to prevent such mishaps. This isn't an isolated incident, as quality concerns have been highlighted previously. Last year, a tragic construction accident occurred on Rama II Road in Samut Sakhon province. A portion of a bridge under construction collapsed, killing three workers and injuring over ten others. The contractor, Udomsak Chiang Mai Company, was responsible for the project, with workers employed by PSCI Construction. These events underscore the necessity for stricter oversight and adherence to safety protocols in construction projects, particularly in infrastructure meant to support public safety. As criticisms mount, there is an urgent call for government agencies to reassess their operational standards and ensure such failures do not recur. Improved quality control is imperative to maintain public trust and ensure the safety of all involved, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-10

Buddhist Monk Arrested for 2010 Robbery in Ayutthaya Temple Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a dramatic turn of events, police today apprehended a 59-year-old Buddhist monk in Ayutthaya, known only as Chalad, tied to a high-profile robbery from 2010. Chalad, who evaded capture for nearly a decade by living as a monk, was taken into custody on March 10. This arrest follows a directive from Police Major General Witthaya Sriprasertphap, with Police Colonel Suriyasak Jirawat and Police Lieutenant Athirat Thipcharoen leading the operation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354175-buddhist-monk-arrested-for-2010-robbery-in-ayutthaya-temple/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a dramatic turn of events, police today apprehended a 59-year-old Buddhist monk in Ayutthaya, known only as Chalad, tied to a high-profile robbery from 2010. Chalad, who evaded capture for nearly a decade by living as a monk, was taken into custody on March 10. This arrest follows a directive from Police Major General Witthaya Sriprasertphap, with Police Colonel Suriyasak Jirawat and Police Lieutenant Athirat Thipcharoen leading the operation. Chalad was wanted under an arrest warrant issued by the Samut Prakan Provincial Court back in 2015. He, along with three accomplices, was accused of breaking into a wealthy homeowner's residence in Samut Prakan. There, they allegedly bound the residents and stole valuables, including gold jewellery, luxury watches, and sacred amulets, amounting to over 2 million baht. Following the robbery, the group reportedly kidnapped a caretaker, whom they later abandoned by a roadside. Despite being granted bail to contest these charges in court, Chalad failed to appear and opted to evade authorities by moving across various provinces. The police's recent discovery of Chalad's ordination as a monk in Ayutthaya culminated in his arrest at the temple. During interrogation, Chalad confessed to his role in the robbery, admitting he served as the getaway driver and lookout. He has since been transferred to the Samut Prakan Provincial Court, where he will face legal proceedings. This surprising arrest highlights the lengths individuals might go to evade justice, occasionally even adopting new identities within religious sanctuaries, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-10

Elephant's Wild Encounter with Truck Passenger Near Hua Hin Pictures courtesy of Facebook screen grab A remarkable event on Hua Hin's Pala-U Road has rapidly become a social media sensation in Thailand. An angry elephant, in a surprising display of its strength, tossed a passenger from the back of a pickup truck. The jaw-dropping moment, captured by a passerby, has sparked a frenzy online. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354173-elephants-wild-encounter-with-truck-passenger-near-hua-hin/

Pictures courtesy of Facebook screen grab A remarkable event on Hua Hin's Pala-U Road has rapidly become a social media sensation in Thailand. An angry elephant, in a surprising display of its strength, tossed a passenger from the back of a pickup truck. The jaw-dropping moment, captured by a passerby, has sparked a frenzy online. The footage shows the elephant approaching the truck and using its trunk to lift the passenger, Chaiwat Harnwichian, into the air. Fortunately, despite this wild ride, Chaiwat only suffered sore ribs and visited the Pa Deng Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospital for a check-up. He was advised to monitor his condition for 24 hours, remaining mostly unhurt except for a bruised ego. Wild elephants are a common sight along this section of Pala-U Road, near the Pala-U checkpoint. They generally coexist peacefully with humans, making this incident all the more surprising. It's believed the elephant might have been searching for food when it made its unexpected manoeuvre. As this incident circulates online, both locals and visitors are being reminded to exercise caution when driving through this area, where wild elephant sightings are routine but can be unpredictable. Additionally, there are rising calls for local authorities to enhance public safety measures along this well-travelled route. The video's popularity on social media underscores the need for awareness in regions where interactions with elephants are possible. While Chaiwat emerged largely unharmed, such encounters remind us of the ongoing risks associated with Thailand's majestic wildlife, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-10