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Former Thailand Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra postponed his court hearing on allegedly violating Section 112 of the Criminal Law, also known as the lese majeste law, scheduled for today, citing a Covid-19 infection. The Attorney General’s Office (AGO) rescheduled the hearing for June 18. The 74 year old former politician was accused of violating Section 112 during an interview with South Korean reporters in Seoul on May 21, 2015. Additionally, Thaksin was accused of importing information into a computer system that could defame, insult, or show malice towards the Thai royal family. The former PM denied all allegations and requested a further investigation into the case. The AGO investigated the accusations further and agreed to indict Thaksin. The court appointed the next hearing for today, May 29. Thaksin urged his lawyer to submit a request to postpone the hearing yesterday, May 28, claiming he was suffering from Covid. The document also included medical confirmation of the infection from the hospital. AGO Chief Prosecutor Wiphut Boonprasart revealed in a press conference at 9am today that Thaksin requested the AGO to postpone the hearing until June 25 but the AGO decided to reschedule it to June 18 because the doctor suggested Thaksin rest for observation until June 3 only. Thaksin’s lawyer, Winyan Chartmontri, revealed in an interview with BangkokBiz News today that Thaksin is ready to go through the justice proceedings and prove his innocence and his intentions when talking about the royal family of Thailand in the interview. Winyan emphasised that Thaksin is now suffering from Covid and might have been exposed to it when he met many residents in the Isaan province of Nakhon Ratchasima on May 25. Winyan insisted that the illness was unexpected. He added that Thaksin had a fever of 38 degrees Celsius and a sore throat yesterday. Winyan said he talked with Thaksin via phone and found the former PM had a hoarse voice. Winyan stated that he could not confirm whether Thaksin would be able to appear on June 18 or not. If he does, the first thing he will do is submit a bail request. By Petch Petpailin Photo via ThaiRath Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai abbot flees after wild animal carcasses found in his room Photo via Facebook/ กรมอุทยานแห่งชาติ สัตว์ป่า และพันธุ์พืช An abbot fled a well-known Phan Suek Nukun Temple in the Isaan province of Nakhon Ratchasima when officers from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP) raided the temple and found wild animal carcasses hidden in his accommodation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328463-thai-abbot-flees-after-wild-animal-carcasses-found-in-his-room/

An abbot fled a well-known Phan Suek Nukun Temple in the Isaan province of Nakhon Ratchasima when officers from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation (DNP) raided the temple and found wild animal carcasses hidden in his accommodation. DNP officers received a tip-off from a monk at the temple that the abbot, later identified as Kittichai Worradhammo, hunted wild animals and kept their carcasses in his living quarters. The monk and other temple members reported that the abbot liked to eat wild animals, and they could no longer tolerate his behaviour, prompting them to report it to the DNP. Acting on the tip-off, officers raided the temple on May 18 and found the hidden carcasses in a fridge inside the abbot’s accommodation. Officers discovered the carcasses of an Asian black bear, a barking deer, a bull’s head, a serow, and four bear paws. Kittichai managed to escape from the temple shortly before the investigation. DNP officers filed a complaint against the abbot at Klangdong Police Station. Police will conduct a further investigation into other involved monks, hunters, and the abbot’s followers. According to Buddhist doctrine, the prohibition on killing stands as a fundamental precept that monks, nuns, novices, and lay members are encouraged to follow. Buddhist monks are required to observe 227 precepts, a cornerstone of which Kittichai violated. Kittichai is not the first monk to engage in wild animal hunting and consumption. In April, two monks and two novices were accused of hunting wild animals in the Phu Khieo Wildlife Sanctuary in the Isaan province of Chaiyaphum. The five monks and novices were accused of participating in a hunting expedition and entering the sanctuary specifically for this purpose. However, all the accused priests denied the charges, insisting that they did not bring any weapons into the forest. They admitted to bringing some animal carcasses out of the forest but claimed it was to perform a merit-making ceremony for the animals’ souls. By Petch Petpailin Photo via Facebook/ กรมอุทยานแห่งชาติ สัตว์ป่า และพันธุ์พืช Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Woman in Udon Thani takes her life due to grandson’s drug abuse Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A tragic incident occurred yesterday when a woman took her own life in response to ongoing stress and abuse from her drug-addicted grandson. Police officers and rescue workers were called to a home in Chiang Phin 2 village, Udon Thani, where they found the lifeless body of 64 year old Prayoon Onnoi. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328462-woman-in-udon-thani-takes-her-life-due-to-grandson’s-drug-abuse/

A tragic incident occurred yesterday when a woman took her own life in response to ongoing stress and abuse from her drug-addicted grandson. Police officers and rescue workers were called to a home in Chiang Phin 2 village, Udon Thani, where they found the lifeless body of 64 year old Prayoon Onnoi. Prayoon’s 68 year old husband, Somkid Phosarn, explained that his wife had been acting unusually in the past few days, often asking to accompany him to his job as a security guard. When he returned home that morning, he tried to console her, telling her that they were in this together and to share any worries she had. Despite his efforts, she remained silent. “I felt something was wrong because she never followed me to work before. When I came home and found her, I was in shock.” Prayoon had hanged herself. The police found no signs of foul play or struggle, and her family did not suspect any foul play. The body was handed over to the family for traditional funeral rites. The primary cause of stress for Prayoon, according to Somkid, was her grandson, who had developed a severe addiction to methamphetamines and kratom. The grandson would demand money daily, asking for 200 baht to 300 baht (US$5 to (US$8) to fund his drug habit. If Prayoon refused, he would become violent, often damaging household items and leaving the family in debt by having to borrow money to appease him. “My wife was under immense pressure every day. Our grandson would ask for money and, if she didn’t give it to him, he would hurt her. I felt so helpless.” Thanuwat Yamongkol, the village headman, confirmed that the family had been dealing with the grandson’s addiction for some time. Prayoon was particularly affected, as she was home all day without any work, while Somkid was away at his job. Thanuwat said he often received reports from neighbours about the grandson’s abusive behaviour, reported KhaoSod. “She would often complain about her exhaustion and frustration with her grandson. She didn’t know how to handle the situation anymore.” The grandson was not home at the time of Prayoon’s death, having left to consume drugs with friends. Thanuwat mentioned that the pressure and inability to find a solution to the daily financial demands likely led Prayoon to take her own life. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai), or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress, or depression. Seek help. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Police raid snooker club near Buriram school, arrest 9 at drug party Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Police raided a snooker club-cum-pub near Buriram Provincial School, uncovering a drug-fueled party in a VIP room. Nine individuals, including three women and six men, were arrested, and various drugs and firearms were confiscated. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328461-police-raid-snooker-club-near-buriram-school-arrest-9-at-drug-party/

Police raided a snooker club-cum-pub near Buriram Provincial School, uncovering a drug-fueled party in a VIP room. Nine individuals, including three women and six men, were arrested, and various drugs and firearms were confiscated. Police Major General Rutthaphon Naowarat, commander of Buriram Provincial Police, yesterday, May 28, led a team comprising the provincial police investigation unit, the Mueang police investigation team, and administrative officials to raid the Double Nine Snooker Club on Romburi Road in Nai Mueang Sub-district, Mueang District, Buriram Province. This establishment is situated adjacent to Buriram Provincial School. Inside the club, police found a main hall with two snooker tables and four VIP rooms. Upon searching these rooms, one was discovered to be the venue of a drug party. Nine individuals were present, three women and six men, all of whom attempted to flee but were promptly apprehended by the officers. Various drugs, including ketamine and a new type of drug mixed with drinking water, were discovered in the room. Urine tests on all nine individuals revealed the presence of drugs, turning their samples purple. Additionally, a 9mm handgun with ten rounds of ammunition was found. Upon further investigation, a black Toyota Fortuner with the license plate number งฉ 7327 from Nakhon Ratchasima was found parked outside the pub. This vehicle belonged to 51 year old Nawapol, one of the nine individuals in the drug party room and the owner of the confiscated firearm. Nawapol admitted to being the owner of all the drugs found in the VIP room, reported KhaoSod. Neung, a 24 year old man among the nine arrested said he had arranged to have a drug party since the morning, chatting and consuming drugs and drinks. “It was enjoyable as the VIP room featured smoke, lights, and sound, making it feel like we were in heaven. When someone knocked on the door, we thought more friends were joining, but to our shock, it was the police.” Pol. Maj. Gen. Rutthaphon mentioned that the establishment had a license under the name Lahan Sai Residents Association. The discovered drugs traced back to Phetchaburi Province were particularly concerning due to their liquid form, which could indicate modifications or increased potency. The police plan to conduct an in-depth investigation to trace the origin of these drugs. By Bright Choomanee Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-29 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Thai singer receives four-year sentence for setting King's portrait on fire Photo courtesy of Phuket GO Well-known Thai singer Ammy the Bottom Blues, birth name Chaiyamon Kaewwibunphan, has been given a four-year prison sentence for burning a portrait of the King of Thailand in 2021. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328403-thai-singer-receives-four-year-sentence-for-setting-kings-portrait-on-fire/

Well-known Thai singer Ammy the Bottom Blues, birth name Chaiyamon Kaewwibunphan, has been given a four-year prison sentence for burning a portrait of the King of Thailand in 2021. Chaiyamon's charges include the violation of three laws, among them the lèse-majesté law which forbids insult or defacement of the Thai monarchy. A fellow activist, Thanapat Kapeng, was also charged along with Ammy. On May 27, a decision by the Criminal Court concluded that both Chaiyamon and Thanapat violated sections 112 and 217 of the Criminal Code and section 14 of the Computer Crimes Act. Section 112, also known as the lèse-majesté law, and section 217, which forbids damaging another's property, were the laws allegedly violated. They likewise violated section 14 of the Computer Crimes Act, which prohibits sharing inappropriate content online. The two activists were found guilty of violating these laws by burning the king's portrait during a political rally in 2021 outside Klong Prem Prison. The court interpreted this action as an intentional insult to the king. By sharing pictures of the incident on Facebook, Chaiyamon caused a risk to national security, the court stated. Thanapat received a two-year prison sentence, whilst Chaiyamon was sentenced to serve four years. Their lawyers have since requested bail, the Nation Thailand reported. Simultaneously, according to the group Thai Lawyers for Human Rights, 272 individuals have been charged under the lèse-majesté law in 303 cases between November 24, 2020 and May 10 this year. Among those charged is MP Chonticha Jaengraew from the opposing Move Forward Party, which garnered the majority of seats and 38% of the primary vote in last year's elections, but was not allowed to form a government. Chonticha was recently sentenced to two years in prison for violating section 112 and at this point, she has been released on bail. Photo courtesy of Phuket GO -- 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Big Thailand visa changes from June 1 Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post 5-year visas available for digital nomads, boxers and chefs students The cabinet has approved a number of new visa initiatives aimed at attracting more tourists. This includes visa-free and visa-on-arrival schemes, extended stays for students, and a decrease in mandatory health insurance for retirees. The Foreign Ministry suggested these actions due to the country's significant reliance on tourism, according to government spokesperson, Chai Wacharonke. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328402-big-thailand-visa-changes-from-june-1/

5-year visas available for digital nomads, boxers and chefs students The cabinet has approved a number of new visa initiatives aimed at attracting more tourists. This includes visa-free and visa-on-arrival schemes, extended stays for students, and a decrease in mandatory health insurance for retirees. The Foreign Ministry suggested these actions due to the country's significant reliance on tourism, according to government spokesperson, Chai Wacharonke. He revealed that the range of countries eligible for visa-free entry would grow from 57 to 93. The newly added countries comprise Albania, Cambodia, China, India, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Laos, Mexico, Morocco, Panama, Romania, Sri Lanka, and Uzbekistan. The duration of stays under this program has also been extended to 60 days, as presented by the government spokesperson. Also, the cabinet approved visa-on-arrival for 31 countries, a marked increase from 19 previously. Tourists wishing to work and sightsee can now be issued five-year visas for stays that last up to 180 days, which can be extended for another 180 days. Previously, they were only permitted to stay twice for 30 days each. "These new rules target digital nomads, remote workers, freelancers, as well as those interested in learning Muay Thai and Thai cuisine," Mr. Chai explained. Foreign graduates can now stay for a full year after graduation. Before, they had to leave the country immediately after their studies. "These graduates can search for jobs during this extended period, especially in our areas of need," Mr. Chai commented. He noted that about 40,000 foreign students are studying in the country. These measures will come into effect on Saturday, June 1. In other visa-related changes, tourists aged 50 years and above seeking long-stay visas are now only required to have health insurance coverage of 440,000 baht, down from the previous 3 million baht. This reduction will be effective for long-stay applicants from September to December, according to Mr Chai. Additionally, the cabinet approved the increase of e-visa application services at Thai consulates and embassies, rising from 47 to 94 locations, beginning in September. Summary: The details include: - Increase the number of visa-free countries from 57 to 93, including Albania, China, Cambodia, India, Kazakhstan, Laos, Jamaica, Romania, Sri Lanka, Panama, Mexico, Morocco, Uzbekistan, etc. - Extend the period of visa-free stays from 30 days to 60 days. - Expand the list of countries eligible for visa arrivals from 19 to 31. - Extend the period of stay for digital nomads, remote workers, freelancers, Muay Thai students, Thai food students, etc., from 60 days to 180 days. - Extend the period of stay for foreign university students to one year after graduation, allowing them to work in professions not restricted to Thais only. These measures are expected to come into effect in June. Other measures set to take effect in September include: - Doubling the number of locations offering e-visa services from 47 embassies and consulates-general to 94. 🟢 Thailand Visa Exemption (60 days) and Visa On Arrival (VOA) (15 days): 🟢 5 year multiple entry DTA visa (Destination Thailand) -- 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

AoT Takes Public Suggestions for Don Mueang Airport Improvement File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google The Airports of Thailand (AoT) recently conducted a public hearing for the upcoming third phase of the Don Mueang Airport Development project. This meeting was held to collect feedback from all involved parties to ensure the construction caters to their requirements. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328401-aot-takes-public-suggestions-for-don-mueang-airport-improvement/

The Airports of Thailand (AoT) recently conducted a public hearing for the upcoming third phase of the Don Mueang Airport Development project. This meeting was held to collect feedback from all involved parties to ensure the construction caters to their requirements. AoT's President, Kerati Kijmanawat, led the meeting that was attended by numerous representatives from government bodies, airlines, ground handling firms, businesses, and transport services. The meeting was part of the government's initiative to enhance transport infrastructure and make Don Mueang Airport a regional aviation hub. The Thai government has sanctioned a total budget of 36.8 billion baht for this development project. The primary aim is to increase the airport's capacity to house 40 million passengers annually, with a top limit of 50 million passengers per year. To accomplish this, the plan includes the erection of a new international terminal on the airport's southern side. This terminal will cover roughly 166,000 square meters and accommodate nearly 23 million international passengers every year. It is expected to be functional by 2029. Another significant part of the project is the expansion of the domestic passenger area in Passenger Terminal 1. Along with Passenger Terminal 2, this area will house up to 27 million domestic passengers per year, with a total floor area of 240,000 square meters. This portion is scheduled to be completed by 2031. An exclusive jet terminal and an enlarged parking area with an additional 4,000 spaces are also planned. These improvements will cater to high-end passengers and the mounting number of domestic passengers respectively. The project is currently in the design stage, and construction is estimated to begin in 2025 and end by 2031. Don Mueang Airport, conveniently located near downtown Bangkok, aims to host direct flights from China, Japan, South Korea, and ASEAN countries. After development, it will be capable of handling 60 flights per hour, up from the current capacity of 50 flights per hour. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Activist Against Royal Motorcade Released on Bail Photo courtesy of Thai News Agency The local court has given Tantawan Tuatulanon, known as 'Tawan', bail in connection with the royal motorcade horn beeping incident on February 4, under Section 116. Tawan's family had made this request for bail eight times prior to it being granted. One of the stipulations for her release is that she must wear an electronic monitoring (EM) bracelet. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328400-activist-against-royal-motorcade-released-on-bail/

The local court has given Tantawan Tuatulanon, known as 'Tawan', bail in connection with the royal motorcade horn beeping incident on February 4, under Section 116. Tawan's family had made this request for bail eight times prior to it being granted. One of the stipulations for her release is that she must wear an electronic monitoring (EM) bracelet. Her lawyer, Kritsadang Nutcharat, who works for the Human Rights Lawyers Center, revealed that Tawan had been on a hunger strike for quite some time. This long period of protest against her extended detention had led to a significant decline in her health. As a result, she was under medical care at Thammasat University Hospital. Despite her release, Tawan will still need constant medical monitoring. Tawan has spent more than 100 days in detention prior to her release. She was arrested in February on charges of sedition and other related offenses. It was alleged that she attempted to disrupt the royal motorcade of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on a highway in Bangkok. Photo courtesy of Thai News Agency -- 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Deputy PM Anutin Getting Treatment for Heart Issue, Plans On Making Lifestyle Changes File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google The Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister of Thailand, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, publicly announced on May 27, 2024, that his rigorous work routine and lifestyle has taken a toll on his health. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328399-deputy-pm-anutin-getting-treatment-for-heart-issue-plans-on-making-lifestyle-changes/

The Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister of Thailand, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, publicly announced on May 27, 2024, that his rigorous work routine and lifestyle has taken a toll on his health. Mr. Charnvirakul shared that he has been diagnosed with an irregular heartbeat condition known as Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT) or arrhythmia. To manage this condition, doctors had to carry out electric cardioversion, a procedure that helps restore normal heart rhythm. Though Mr. Charnvirakul stated that his health is gradually improving, he confessed that overuse of his phone is depriving him of sufficient sleep and exercise. In response, he pledged to prioritize getting ample sleep and to find balance in his work-life schedule. Mr. Charnvirakul initially feared a severe heart condition, but was eventually diagnosed with arrhythmia by his physicians. They advised him to get plenty of rest and avoid unnecessary stress. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Campaign to eliminate e-cigarettes from schools is gaining momentum File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google The campaign to remove e-cigarettes from schools is quickly gaining traction due to a recently reported fivefold increase in usage over the last seven years. The Education Minister of Thailand, Police General Permpoon Chidchob, reaffirmed the government's commitment to end e-cigarette use in schools during a forum on May 27. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328398-campaign-to-eliminate-e-cigarettes-from-schools-is-gaining-momentum/

The campaign to remove e-cigarettes from schools is quickly gaining traction due to a recently reported fivefold increase in usage over the last seven years. The Education Minister of Thailand, Police General Permpoon Chidchob, reaffirmed the government's commitment to end e-cigarette use in schools during a forum on May 27. The forum was organized by the Action on Smoking and Health Foundation (ASHF) and featured members of the Gen Z Strong campaign. The campaign works to enlighten youths about the dangers of tobacco and e-cigarettes. Minister Permpoon highlighted government policy against e-cigarette use because of potential health risks and the potential for drug abuse. School administrators are now authorized to seize e-cigarettes from students on school premises. He highlighted the importance of having a strong community against vaping and that it should start from the home front. He urged authorities to clamp down on the illicit selling of e-cigarettes, particularly those sold by students. Information on the hazardous chemicals present in e-cigarettes is being shared across different platforms, with the public urged to report illegal sales and smuggling. Assistant manager of ASHF, Chawala Pawaputanont Na Mahasarakham, raised alarm at the growing trend of e-cigarette usage among 13-15-year-olds, which has jumped from 3.3% in 2015 to 17.6% last year. Girls' usage also saw a significant rise. The data was gotten from a survey of 6,700 secondary school students across the country. Chawala acknowledged that many students and teachers are now part of the Gen Z Strong campaign, which boasts members in 28 provinces and a total membership of 6,776. Thanya Thongsan, Chair of the Gen Z Club in Phetchabun, indicated that smoking has adversely affected students' learning abilities. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Austrian Man Drowns in Pattaya Condo Pool, His Wife and Daughter Left in Grief File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google A 74-year-old Austrian man sadly drowned in a condo pool in Pattaya, Thailand on the evening of May 27th, 2024. The unfortunate incident took place at a condominium in the Naklua region of the Banglamung district in Chonburi province. Banglamung police and rescue teams responded to the scene after receiving reports of a foreigner drowning around 9:30 PM. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328396-austrian-man-drowns-in-pattaya-condo-pool-his-wife-and-daughter-left-in-grief/

A 74-year-old Austrian man sadly drowned in a condo pool in Pattaya, Thailand on the evening of May 27th, 2024. The unfortunate incident took place at a condominium in the Naklua region of the Banglamung district in Chonburi province. Banglamung police and rescue teams responded to the scene after receiving reports of a foreigner drowning around 9:30 PM. When authorities arrived, they discovered the body of the victim, identified as 74-year-old Mr. Aichmann Johann, beside the pool. Reports say that Mr. Johann was rescued from the water by the condo's security personnel but died on the site due to being underwater for an extended period. The victim's wife, 53-year-old Mrs. Warinya, and their 19-year-old daughter were also present at the scene and were clearly heartbroken. Mrs. Warinya revealed that her husband loved swimming and frequently went swimming alone. She and her daughter were preparing dinner when they realized he hadn't returned at his regular time. She was devastated to find that her husband had drowned when she went down to look for him. The condo’s security guard, Mr. Kosin Moomsila, 39, noted that he saw the victim's towel by the pool and began to investigate when he didn't find anyone around. It wasn’t until Mr. Johann's body floated to the surface that he realized what had happened. Despite his efforts to perform CPR on Mr. Johann, it was too late. Currently, Banglamung police are investigating the incident and talking to potential witnesses. The body of the deceased will be sent to the Police General Hospital’s Institute of Forensic Medicine for further analysis to determine the exact cause of death. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Alleged Drug Smuggling Gang Reportedly Attacks Police Officers in Nakhon Phanom File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google On May 27, 2024, two officers from the Ban Phaeng police were reportedly attacked by a large group, thought to include about 30 individuals, involved in drug trafficking. The incident took place in Ban Phaeng, a district in Nakhon Phanom, Thailand. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328395-alleged-drug-smuggling-gang-reportedly-attacks-police-officers-in-nakhon-phanom/

On May 27, 2024, two officers from the Ban Phaeng police were reportedly attacked by a large group, thought to include about 30 individuals, involved in drug trafficking. The incident took place in Ban Phaeng, a district in Nakhon Phanom, Thailand. The police officers, 27-year-old Sgt. Pramet Purachano and 30-year-old Sgt. Worapithun Dechasathien, told the police they were on the trail of a drug trafficking group along the Nakhon Phanom border. During a morning patrol on the Mekong River at 7:30 AM, they came across a long-tailed boat loaded with many black backpacks in Ban Phaeng. Suspecting that the boat was linked to smuggling activities, the officers went close for inspection. The persons aboard the boat tried to escape and summoned backup, resulting in an attack by a sizable group. Sgt. Pramet and Sgt. Worapithun fortunately managed to get away and were helped by nearby police officers. The police officers stated that the Nakhon Phanom border is infamous for illegal activities carried out by this drug trafficking network, including stealing vehicles and smuggling drugs. The stolen items and vehicles are allegedly retailed to traders in the neighboring country at commission rates between 5,000 and 10,000 baht each. The lucrative nature of this illegal business has attracted many local people, including youngsters. The porous border presents a tremendous challenge for the police as it offers ample opportunities for criminals to conduct their illegal activities. It has been reported that these smugglers are importing cannabis products from the neighboring country and distributing them unlawfully in Thailand, capitalizing on the country's lenient cannabis regulations. As of the time this report is going to press, no arrests have been made in connection with the incident. File photo for reference only. Courtesy of Google -- 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe

Truck driver dozes off, killing two and injuring five in Chon Buri Image courtesy of Khaosod A tragic crash occurred at 8.40 am yesterday on the inbound Pattaya side of Highway 7, near Bang Lamung, Chon Buri, when an 18-wheeler truck driver fell asleep at the wheel. The devastating accident led to the loss of two women’s lives and left five others injured, while also causing extensive property damage. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1328393-truck-driver-dozes-off-killing-two-and-injuring-five-in-chon-buri/

A tragic crash occurred at 8.40 am yesterday on the inbound Pattaya side of Highway 7, near Bang Lamung, Chon Buri, when an 18-wheeler truck driver fell asleep at the wheel. The devastating accident led to the loss of two women’s lives and left five others injured, while also causing extensive property damage. Upon arrival at the scene, police and rescue teams found a large crowd of onlookers. The 18-wheeler Hino truck was loaded with cement slabs and had crashed onto the road’s edge, severely damaging its front end. Surrounding the truck were a pickup truck, two motorcycles, a toppled high-voltage pole, a fallen streetlight, and the heavily damaged wood shop. The crash caused multiple casualties. The first injured person, the 50 year old truck driver, Rung was trapped inside the truck and had to be extricated by rescue teams before being taken to the hospital. The other injured parties including three men and one woman were in a pickup truck that had stopped to buy wooden pallets. The woman sustained severe injuries, losing both legs after being run over by the truck. All injured individuals were given first aid and transported to Bang Lamung Hospital. Malpractice victims Two fatalities were reported at the scene. The boy old 25 year old Sirinthorn was found near the 18-wheeler with her body severely crushed while 17 year old Sureerat was found on the road’s edge, crushed under the fallen high-voltage pole. Initial inquiries revealed that the two women, who were relatives and employees of the wood shop, were riding a motorcycle to work when they were struck by the truck. Sirinthorn was driving, with Sureerat as the passenger. The owner of the wood was visibly shaken and upset, confronting the 18-wheeler driver, and questioning his driving. The driver repeatedly apologised, admitting he had fallen asleep due to a lack of rest after a night of fishing. He was transporting cement slabs from Nong Mon to Takhian Tia when the accident occurred. The shop owner recounted hearing a loud crash and the sound of the pole falling before discovering the extent of the damage caused by the truck, which had also hit the motorcycle and pickup truck of the customers at the shop. The exact cause of the accident remains unclear, whether it was brake failure or driver fatigue. CCTV footage captured the moment the motorcycle, which the victims were riding, was stopped to turn left when the 18-wheeler suddenly crashed into them. The truck then veered off, hitting the high-voltage pole and streetlight before colliding with the parked vehicles and the wood shop. Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation to determine the precise cause of the accident and will proceed with legal actions accordingly, reported Khaosod. By Ryan Turner Image courtesy of Khaosod Source: The Thaiger 2024-05-28 Get our Daily Newsletter - Click HERE to subscribe