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Picture of earthquake effects in Chiang Rai courtesy of The Nation Northern Thailand experienced a seismic jolt late last night with two earthquakes striking Mae Hong Son's picturesque Pai district, adding to a recent surge in regional seismic activity. The tremors, felt across Mae Hong Son and Chiang Mai provinces, have left residents on edge. The first earthquake, measuring 3.8 on the Richter scale, hit Wiang Nuea subdistrict at 10:27 p.m. on April 24, at a shallow depth of 4 kilometres. Merely six minutes later, a second, smaller quake of magnitude 2.4 occurred in nearby Mae Hee Subdistrict at a depth of just 1 kilometre. Although no injuries or structural damage have been reported, these incidents have prompted evacuations and heightened awareness among local residents. Officials from the Thai Meteorological Department’s Earthquake Watch Division are monitoring for potential aftershocks and advising the public to remain cautious. This uptick in seismic activity is part of a concerning trend in northern Thailand. On April 23, Chiang Mai experienced a 1.2-magnitude quake, part of a series of nine minor quakes in the area that day. Earlier, on April 14, the region was subjected to numerous quakes with magnitudes ranging from 1.4 to 5.9, stretching from Thailand to Myanmar. The most significant event occurred on March 28, when a destructive 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck central Myanmar near Mandalay. The shockwaves from this quake were felt as far as Bangkok, where the under-construction 30-storey State Audit Office building in Chatuchak collapsed, claiming at least 60 lives and leaving dozens missing. The recent seismic activity underscores the region's vulnerability and serves as a stark reminder of the devastating potential of earthquakes. Authorities continue to urge vigilance and preparedness as the geological situation unfolds. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-25

SAO Clarifies Wall Thickness Reduction in Collapsed Building Amid Probe Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The State Audit Office (SAO) has issued a statement explaining the decision to reduce the wall thickness of elevator shafts in its 30-storey building, which allegedly contributed to its collapse during a recent earthquake. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358830-sao-clarifies-wall-thickness-reduction-in-collapsed-building-amid-probe/

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post The State Audit Office (SAO) has issued a statement explaining the decision to reduce the wall thickness of elevator shafts in its 30-storey building, which allegedly contributed to its collapse during a recent earthquake. The SAO's statement clarified that the adjustment in wall thickness was intended to comply with building standards for interior architecture, ensuring corridor widths met regulatory guidelines. The building's construction was undertaken by a joint venture, ITD-CREC, comprising Italian-Thai Development Plc and China Railway No.10 Thailand Co. Supervision of the project was handled by PKW joint venture, with Forum Architect Co and Meinhardt (Thailand) responsible for its design. Originally, the contractor discovered that the initial wall size, combined with additional decorative elements, risked narrowing the corridor width and breaching the Interior Ministry's regulations and the Building Control Act. In response, the contractor consulted the project supervisor and designer who advised modifying the shaft walls from 30 centimetres to 25 centimetres, strengthened with additional steel reinforcements. This change was confirmed by both the supervisor and designer, and the revised design was sanctioned by the Auditor-General and the State Audit Commission. Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong has raised concerns about the impact of these modifications on the building’s integrity, noting that the reduced thickness of 25 centimetres was considerably below the 60 centimetres typically found in similar structures. He announced that a team of engineers will conduct a thorough investigation to determine if the wall thickness reduction was a factor in the collapse. The investigation will include a detailed examination of the original building blueprints. With China Railway No.10 (Thailand) being a subsidiary of a Chinese state enterprise, Chinese authorities are also involved in evaluating the incident's implications. As investigations unfold, the decisions behind the building’s design adjustments will be closely scrutinised to provide insights into the factors leading to this catastrophic failure. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-25

BMA Vows to Locate Remaining Victims in Collapsed Chatuchak Building File photo for reference only The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has reaffirmed its commitment to finding all individuals trapped in the wreckage of the State Audit Office building as the rescue operation moves towards its final stages. The building, located in Chatuchak district, collapsed following a 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar on March 28, resulting in a devastating loss of life. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358828-bma-vows-to-locate-remaining-victims-in-collapsed-chatuchak-building/

File photo for reference only The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) has reaffirmed its commitment to finding all individuals trapped in the wreckage of the State Audit Office building as the rescue operation moves towards its final stages. The building, located in Chatuchak district, collapsed following a 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar on March 28, resulting in a devastating loss of life. Deputy Governor Tavida Kamolvej, speaking with CU Radio, assured the public that rescuers will continue their efforts until all missing persons are accounted for. "We are determined to find every one of them," Tavida stated, highlighting the unwavering resolve to locate the 34 individuals still unaccounted for from the initial 103 workers present during the collapse. The disaster has so far resulted in the deaths of 60 people, with nine others injured, all of whom have since been discharged from medical care. The building, initially a towering 30-storey structure under construction, was reduced to piles of debris measuring 27 meters high, spread across 1.6 square kilometres on the day of the quake. Recent efforts have lowered the debris to a height of seven metres, as team members approach the ground floor. Ms. Tavida anticipates that all ground floor debris will be cleared by month-end, with additional time in May dedicated to the basement area. The operation is intensely focused on zones B and C, where the majority of the bodies were recovered due to the building's collapse direction. Further complicating the search are the missing individuals, among them three Myanmar citizens. Efforts are underway to obtain DNA samples from their relatives, with City Hall seeking assistance from the Foreign Affairs Ministry to connect with the families through the Thai embassy in Myanmar. To date, over 100 body parts have been uncovered in the debris, and forensic experts at Police General Hospital are diligently working to match these remains with DNA samples from victims' relatives. The effort underscores the continued dedication to bring closure to families affected by this tragic event. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-04-25

Thailand Bans Underwater Photography for Diving Trainees to Protect Corals File photo for reference only In efforts to protect fragile marine ecosystems, Thailand's Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has enacted a new regulation forbidding scuba-diving trainees and instructors from taking underwater photographs during training and examination dives. This directive, signed by Natural Resources and Environment Minister Chalermchai Sri-on, was officially published in the Royal Gazette. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358826-thailand-bans-underwater-photography-for-diving-trainees-to-protect-corals/

File photo for reference only In efforts to protect fragile marine ecosystems, Thailand's Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has enacted a new regulation forbidding scuba-diving trainees and instructors from taking underwater photographs during training and examination dives. This directive, signed by Natural Resources and Environment Minister Chalermchai Sri-on, was officially published in the Royal Gazette. The ban underscores urgent conservation measures aimed specifically at preserving the country's critically endangered corals, which have suffered significant damage from diving activities. The new rule stipulates that any underwater photography must be conducted by qualified divers who have completed the Advanced Open Water course through recognised organisations such as the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI), Scuba Schools International (SSI), or the Advanced Scuba Diver course from the National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI), or an equivalent qualification. Additionally, the ministerial order imposes restrictions on snorkelling activities over corals in shallow waters. Individuals are prohibited from snorkelling where seawater depths are less than two metres above coral formations and are required to wear life vests unless they have completed scuba diving or freediving courses. Pinsak Suraswadi, director-general of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, indicated that any diving operators found infringing on these regulations could face legal consequences. Violators risk receiving a jail term of up to two years and/or fines reaching 200,000 baht, in accordance with the Act on the Promotion of Marine and Coastal Resources Management. This new directive reflects a pivotal move to safeguard Thailand's marine biodiversity and highlights a growing emphasis on sustainable practices in diving and related activities. By restricting underwater photography to only qualified divers, the ministry aims to mitigate further harm to coral ecosystems while promoting responsible and eco-friendly diving practices. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-04-25

ASEAN Stays Firm on Diplomacy Amid US Tariff Pressures Picture courtesy of ASEAN In the face of rising US tariff threats, ASEAN has resolutely chosen diplomacy over retaliation, aiming to sustain strong trade ties with the US, its second-largest trading partner. This decisive stance was articulated by Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan following a virtual summit of ASEAN economic ministers, including Timor-Leste, held to address recent US trade measures announced on April 5. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358825-asean-stays-firm-on-diplomacy-amid-us-tariff-pressures/

Picture courtesy of ASEAN In the face of rising US tariff threats, ASEAN has resolutely chosen diplomacy over retaliation, aiming to sustain strong trade ties with the US, its second-largest trading partner. This decisive stance was articulated by Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan following a virtual summit of ASEAN economic ministers, including Timor-Leste, held to address recent US trade measures announced on April 5. Minister Pichai emphasized ASEAN’s commitment to dialogue and maintaining multilateral relations, underscoring the bloc's dedication to keeping regional supply chains intact and shielding small to medium enterprises from potential trade conflict fallout. "The focus is on dialogue, not division," he affirmed. The summit concluded with a joint statement reinforcing ASEAN's role as a "comprehensive strategic partner" of the US, seeking "balanced, long-term solutions" through the ASEAN-US Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership. To further this initiative, ASEAN established a new Geoeconomics Task Force to monitor US economic policies, offer strategic advice, and enhance public-private sector collaboration. ASEAN also sees potential in future cooperation with the US in emerging sectors like artificial intelligence, digital technologies, electric vehicles, semiconductors, renewable energy, and sustainable food systems, recognizing these as growth drivers for the region. Encouragingly, ongoing talks with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer are progressing well, with plans for a formal meeting underway. These efforts align with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s vision to amplify Thailand’s role as a key US trade ally. Anticipating tariff negotiations, Thailand stands to benefit from a temporary 90-day tariff relief offered by Washington to nations willing to engage in deal-making. In 2024, US-ASEAN trade amounted to a substantial US$477 billion, with Thailand contributing US$74.5 billion, including a US$35.4 billion trade surplus in Bangkok’s favor. Thailand’s primary exports to the US comprise electronics, garments, rubber products, and machinery, while importing American vehicles, agricultural products, electrical components, and textiles. With global trade dynamics shifting, ASEAN is steering a steady course through economic uncertainty, placing diplomacy and cooperative dialogue at the forefront of its strategy, ensuring that trade relations with the US remain robust and beneficial for all parties involved. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-25

Thalang's Surprise Drug Operation Uncovers Meth Use in Phuket Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News In a proactive move to combat drug abuse in Phuket, Thalang district officials uncovered 20 cases of methamphetamine use during an unannounced drug screening operation in Pa Khlok. Conducted on April 23, this surprise intervention reflects ongoing efforts by authorities to address the growing meth crisis in the region. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358824-thalangs-surprise-drug-operation-uncovers-meth-use-in-phuket/

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News In a proactive move to combat drug abuse in Phuket, Thalang district officials uncovered 20 cases of methamphetamine use during an unannounced drug screening operation in Pa Khlok. Conducted on April 23, this surprise intervention reflects ongoing efforts by authorities to address the growing meth crisis in the region. The operation, spearheaded by a specially formed team from Thalang district administration, involved village headmen, public health volunteers, and Thalang Police. Checkpoints were strategically set up across key villages—Village 1, 6, and 9—where random urine screenings were carried out on locals. Officials tested 120 individuals, discovering methamphetamine in 20 participants. All those found positive candidly admitted their usage and opted for voluntary treatment at Thalang Hospital. In a notable approach, authorities chose not to file legal charges, focusing instead on rehabilitation and prevention. Led by Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat, and supported by Vice Governor Adul Chuthong and other local leaders, the operation was part of a broader campaign to curb drug abuse and improve community safety across Phuket. Despite no illegal items being found during searches, the screening highlights the area's ongoing drug challenges. Authorities are hopeful that these interventions, coupled with voluntary treatment programs, will help reduce meth usage and assist individuals battling addiction. This initiative forms part of a series of enforcement actions aiming to curtail the methamphetamine issue that has increasingly plagued Thailand. Emphasizing community involvement, the recent operation underscores the vital role local officials play in identifying and addressing drug-related issues, demonstrating a collective commitment to fostering a safer environment for Phuket's residents. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-25

Tragic Wave at Laem Sing Beach Claims Life of Yala Fisherman Photo courtesy of The Phuket News A devastating accident at Laem Sing Beach claimed the life of 29-year-old Abdullah Saha from Yala province, after being swept into the sea by a large wave while fishing. The tragedy occurred yesterday, April 24, at around 3.40 p.m., as a foreign tourist witnessed the unfortunate event and urgently alerted nearby lifeguards. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358823-tragic-wave-at-laem-sing-beach-claims-life-of-yala-fisherman/

Photo courtesy of The Phuket News A devastating accident at Laem Sing Beach claimed the life of 29-year-old Abdullah Saha from Yala province, after being swept into the sea by a large wave while fishing. The tragedy occurred yesterday, April 24, at around 3.40 p.m., as a foreign tourist witnessed the unfortunate event and urgently alerted nearby lifeguards. Abdullah and two friends had been fishing near the Laem Sing viewpoint when tumultuous sea conditions led to a moment that proved fatal. Witnesses reported seeing two of the men slipping on the rocks, with Abdullah tragically unable to recover. One of the friends managed to scramble back onto solid ground and immediately sought help. Lifeguards from Surin Beach promptly arrived, finding Abdullah unresponsive and floating face down in the water. They used flotation devices to keep him above water until a jet-ski was dispatched to bring him safely ashore. Despite determined resuscitation efforts by lifeguards and the rapid response from emergency services, Abdullah was pronounced dead upon arrival at Patong Hospital. Kamala rescue teams, alongside the Kamala Tambon Administrative Organisation and an ambulance from Patong Hospital, worked intensively to save Abdullah, but sadly their efforts were in vain. Local officials from Kamala Police are currently reaching out to Abdullah’s family to assist with the funeral arrangements. The incident stands as a grim reminder of the perils of fishing from rocky outcrops, especially during unpredictable sea conditions. Local authorities are urging beachgoers to exercise heightened caution and adhere to safety advisories to prevent future tragedies. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-25

Phuket Earthquake Rumour Dismissed as Baseless by Officials Photo courtesy of PlanetWare Rumours claiming that Phuket could sink into the sea following a major earthquake went viral this week, sparking unnecessary panic among residents and tourists. However, Thai officials and the Anti-Fake News Centre have dismissed these claims as nonsense. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358821-phuket-earthquake-rumour-dismissed-as-baseless-by-officials/

Photo courtesy of PlanetWare Rumours claiming that Phuket could sink into the sea following a major earthquake went viral this week, sparking unnecessary panic among residents and tourists. However, Thai officials and the Anti-Fake News Centre have dismissed these claims as nonsense. On April 24, the Anti-Fake News Centre, under Thailand’s Digital Economy and Society Ministry, intervened to debunk the alarming rumours. The viral posts predicted a false catastrophic scenario, alleging a death toll of between 40,000 and 60,000, causing widespread distress. Officials clarified that the information was entirely unfounded. The Department of Mineral Resources assured the public that Phuket is distant from significant earthquake epicentres, reducing the likelihood of such a disaster. “The likelihood of a major earthquake occurring in Phuket is extremely low,” stated the department. Authorities emphasised that no credible geological institution had issued warnings that support the baseless claims. Misinformation about impending natural disasters not only stirs public fear but also harms the image of Phuket, a globally admired tourist destination. The rapid spread of these false reports on social media included fabricated graphics and warnings wrongly linked to government sources, prompting an urgent response from officials. They urged the public to stay calm, verify facts, and refrain from spreading unverified information to prevent panic. “Misinformation like this not only causes public panic but also damages the image of our tourism industry,” the Anti-Fake News Centre noted, reminding people to trust updates from official government channels. This incident highlights the need for critical scrutiny before sharing information online, pointing to the explosive nature of fake news and the potentially adverse impact on communities. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-25

Panic as Knife-Wielding Man Causes Hospital Chaos in Chiang Mai Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod A state of panic ensued at Chiang Mai's McCormick Hospital today when a knife-wielding Thai man stormed the outpatient ward, threatening publicly to harm himself. The alarming incident unfolded at around 11:30 a.m. as the man, appearing distressed, burst into the hospital brandishing a knife against his neck. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358820-panic-as-knife-wielding-man-causes-hospital-chaos-in-chiang-mai/

Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod A state of panic ensued at Chiang Mai's McCormick Hospital today when a knife-wielding Thai man stormed the outpatient ward, threatening publicly to harm himself. The alarming incident unfolded at around 11:30 a.m. as the man, appearing distressed, burst into the hospital brandishing a knife against his neck. Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of chaos as hospital staff and patients, gripped by fear, scrambled to safety, with many hastily exiting the premises. One staff member shared her shock with KhaoSod reporters, saying, “It was terrifying! No one knew what he was going to do next.” Initial attempts by hospital security to contain the volatile situation proved challenging until local police quickly arrived, securing the area and evacuating those not involved from the ward. An hour later, Special Operations officers joined the effort to negotiate with the disturbed individual, who continued to agitate, brandishing his weapon. As of the latest reports, negotiations were ongoing, and fortunately, no injuries had been reported. The man’s identity and motive remain undisclosed, though sources suggest mental health struggles may have been a factor in his outburst. Authorities are working meticulously to resolve the standoff peacefully, with efforts concentrated on ensuring the safety of all involved while extending appropriate care and support to the distressed man. Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-25

Bangkok Police Nab Suspects in Israeli Tourist’s Bicycle Theft File photo for reference only In a swift move, Bangkok police have arrested two suspects tied to the theft of a bicycle belonging to an Israeli tourist in the vibrant Chinatown district of Yaowarat. The suspects, including 45-year-old Sompoth, were apprehended following an investigation which unveiled attempts to sell the stolen bicycle on Facebook. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358819-bangkok-police-nab-suspects-in-israeli-tourist’s-bicycle-theft/

File photo for reference only In a swift move, Bangkok police have arrested two suspects tied to the theft of a bicycle belonging to an Israeli tourist in the vibrant Chinatown district of Yaowarat. The suspects, including 45-year-old Sompoth, were apprehended following an investigation which unveiled attempts to sell the stolen bicycle on Facebook. The saga began when 54-year-old Israeli national, Mr. Erez, lodged a police report on the morning of April 20 after discovering his bicycle missing. The previous evening, on April 19, Mr. Erez had securely locked his black TREK FX3 bicycle to a lamppost on Songwat Road before indulging in Yaowarat's local attractions. Upon returning at 2:00 a.m., he found the chain cut and the bicycle gone. Days into the investigation, Mr. Erez informed authorities about a suspect named "Sompoth" on Facebook, listing a bicycle for sale that matched the description of his stolen one. The bicycle was advertised at 7,000 baht (approximately $200), prompting investigators to set up a sting operation by feigning interest as potential buyers. Sompoth, unsuspecting of the trap, arranged to meet the supposed buyers in Bang Sai Kai 2 Alley, in the Thonburi district, where police successfully apprehended him. Recovered alongside Sompoth during the arrest were a black TREK FX3 bicycle and a gray-black GIRO helmet — confirming the stolen items. During interrogation, Sompoth claimed he had acquired the bicycle from an accomplice known only as "Anant" or "Man" for 5,000 baht (approximately $140) from a rental room in Itsaraphap Soi 29. His intent to resell it at 7,000 baht would have netted him a modest profit of 2,000 baht ($60). Sompoth faces several charges, including nighttime theft involving the destruction of security measures, conspiring in a crime with multiple offenders, using a vehicle to facilitate the crime, and dealing in stolen property. Authorities continue to trace Anant, who will face similar charges if apprehended. Despite the evidence against them, both suspects have denied the allegations. This case underscores the vigilance of Bangkok's law enforcement in swiftly addressing crimes affecting both locals and tourists, ensuring justice and maintaining confidence in public security. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod 2025-04-25

Deadly Sandfly Disease Sparks Health Warning in Thailand Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In an urgent health advisory, Thai authorities are warning residents and travellers about the resurgence of Leishmaniasis, a rare yet potentially fatal disease spread by common sandflies. This year, the disease has resulted in over 40 reported cases, claiming the lives of two individuals—one each in Bangkok and Songkhla—as confirmed by Thailand's Department of Disease Control. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358818-deadly-sandfly-disease-sparks-health-warning-in-thailand/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In an urgent health advisory, Thai authorities are warning residents and travellers about the resurgence of Leishmaniasis, a rare yet potentially fatal disease spread by common sandflies. This year, the disease has resulted in over 40 reported cases, claiming the lives of two individuals—one each in Bangkok and Songkhla—as confirmed by Thailand's Department of Disease Control. Dr Jurai Wongsawat, a senior medical specialist and health ministry spokesperson, announced that the most recent patient is a foreign traveller from the Middle East. Though Leishmaniasis is not new to Thailand, having been present since 1996, it remains a significant health threat if left untreated. “Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic infection transmitted by sandflies and not by direct skin contact,” Dr Jurai pointed out, likening preventative measures to those used against dengue fever. Precautions such as avoiding bites are crucial. The disease manifests in two forms: mild and severe. Mild symptoms may include small skin bumps, treatable with medication. In contrast, severe cases see the parasite attacking internal organs, leading to chronic fever, pale skin, an enlarged spleen, and potentially death. Dr Jurai highlighted the unpredictable incubation period, advising immediate medical testing and treatment upon symptom onset. Thailand's warm climate fosters a thriving environment for insect-borne diseases, prompting officials to promote preventive measures. The public is urged to wear protective clothing, use insect repellent, and maintain clean environments to fend off sandfly bites. Dr Jurai emphasised that while dengue fever often dominates public attention, Leishmaniasis is a formidable vector-borne threat that must not be overlooked. “Protecting yourself from insect bites is essential, regardless of how rare the disease might seem,” she concluded, marking an essential step in safeguarding public health in Thailand. Adapted by ASEAN Now from [source] 2025-04-25

Thai Couple Urges Action After Near-Crash Involving Homeless Man - video Photo via TikTok/ @ppalaploy.y A harrowing incident in Nonthaburi, near Bangkok, has led a Thai couple to demand action regarding the presence of homeless individuals on a traffic island, after a near-fatal crash exposed the dangers posed by their unexpected presence on busy roads. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358817-thai-couple-urges-action-after-near-crash-involving-homeless-man-video/

Photo via TikTok/ @ppalaploy.y A harrowing incident in Nonthaburi, near Bangkok, has led a Thai couple to demand action regarding the presence of homeless individuals on a traffic island, after a near-fatal crash exposed the dangers posed by their unexpected presence on busy roads. The event unfolded when a homeless man unexpectedly crossed in front of the couple's car on Rattanathibet Road, leading to a collision with a traffic barrier. The woman involved in the incident, who shared the story on her TikTok account @ppalaploy.y, revealed that their car lacked a dashcam, but footage was generously provided by a concerned motorist who witnessed the accident from behind. Describing the traumatic experience, she wrote, “I just realised how valuable my life is.” The couple was travelling in the car, driven by her boyfriend, when a reportedly inebriated homeless individual suddenly emerged onto the road, forcing them to swerve and crash. Miraculously, no injuries were sustained in the collision. The incident took place in a location with poor visibility, exacerbated by the surrounding infrastructure compelling vehicles to travel at high speeds. Blind spots created by other traffic further complicated the driver's ability to respond to the sudden hazard. After the near-miss, the homeless man nonchalantly returned to his companions on the traffic island, continuing to drink without apparent concern for the peril he had inadvertently caused. The woman, determined to address the hazard, reported the event to local authorities, pressing for intervention to prevent episodes of similar nature in the future. Despite their plight and the potential risk to other motorists, the couple waited extensively at the crash site for insurance assistance, but no police response materialised. This lack of immediate attention from law enforcement raised queries about the legal responsibilities in accidents caused by such precarious situations. The woman also underscored the legal inconsistencies, pointing out that should her boyfriend have accidentally fatally struck the pedestrian, legal consequences would disproportionately impact the driver, notwithstanding the circumstances framed by the unpredictable actions of the pedestrian. As this story gains attention, it underscores the necessity for enhanced safety measures and a more active law enforcement role in managing street safety concerns, especially in high traffic areas plagued by such hazardous challenges. Adapted by ASEAN Now from [source] 2025-04-25

Gun Jompalang Emerges as Public Champion in High-Profile Road Rage Case Photo: Thai PBS World In an unexpected turn of events, public figure Gun Jompalang, known off-screen as Gunnathat Pongpaiboonwet, has captured the hearts of many Thais amidst a heated road rage case that pits an average family against a powerful political clan in Pathum Thani. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358816-gun-jompalang-emerges-as-public-champion-in-high-profile-road-rage-case/

Photo: Thai PBS World In an unexpected turn of events, public figure Gun Jompalang, known off-screen as Gunnathat Pongpaiboonwet, has captured the hearts of many Thais amidst a heated road rage case that pits an average family against a powerful political clan in Pathum Thani. Gun's intervening actions have sparked widespread acclaim as he steps in to assist a family victimised by a youthful, reckless driver associated with a wealthy and influential family. This incident, which involves a young man from this family driving a costly sedan with little regard for road safety, has catapulted Gun into the national spotlight as a defender of justice. Historically appearing on TV as an advocate for the underrepresented, Gun had faced skepticism about his motives, with some viewing him as seeking publicity. However, his current actions, dedicated to aiding those physically and mentally impacted by the incident, have struck a chord with the public, sparking an outpouring of praise and admiration. The incident, widely discussed on social media, has generated hundreds of thousands of comments. For every critique of the young BMW driver, Smittipat Leenawarat, an expression of gratitude and admiration for Gun follows. Commentators have commended Gun for ensuring the story did not slip into obscurity or fall into the realm of insincere apologies by those involved. Gun’s challenge to the high-profile family has only bolstered his standing, reaching new heights when Mongkolkit Suksintharanon, linked to the Democrat Party, urged him to step back, warning of potential repercussions from the wealthy. Despite this, Gun continues to steadfastly support the family, further solidifying his role as an advocate for justice. The case has revealed renewed insights into social dynamics within Thailand, particularly as it relates to justice and equality. Gun’s involvement highlights a broader conversation about the Thai justice system and societal values, effectively challenging public figures to address real issues rather than sidestep them. Gun Jompalang, despite his own wealth and background, stands firmly as a beacon in this clash between privileged and ordinary lives, emphasizing the power of standing up for justice. The case acts as a pivotal moment, testing societal strength and challenging Thai figures to face the challenges that truly matter, inviting reflection on the nature and focus of heroism in contemporary Thailand. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-04-25