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Picture courtesy of Matichon A Thai man and his Laotian girlfriend have been arrested for allegedly stealing a motorcycle belonging to a delivery rider in the Sukhaphiban 5 area. The suspects, 39-year-old Anukul and 30-year-old Champa, were apprehended by Deputy Inspector Kittikarn Sinprakhop and the Sai Mai Police following a theft complaint. The incident occurred on 26th March when a food delivery rider, while picking up an order in Sai Mai district, left his Honda Wave 125i motorcycle unattended with the key in the ignition. Upon his return, the motorcycle was missing, prompting him to notify the police. Investigators reviewed local CCTV footage, which showed the suspect approaching on foot, stealing the motorcycle, and escaping towards the Watcharapol intersection. Acting on a tip-off, the police tracked the suspects to a resort in Bangkok’s Bang Khen district. At the resort, police discovered Anukul and Champa in possession of the stolen motorcycle, which had been reported missing at Wang Thonglang Police Station. They also found a pink wallet belonging to Champa, containing an ID from a previous boyfriend and an additional motorcycle key. Champa, lacking a passport, admitted to entering Thailand illegally a few months prior. The suspects confessed to the Sai Mai theft and disclosed the sale of another stolen motorcycle. The police found the license plate from the current stolen motorcycle removed and placed next to their bed. Anukul faces charges of theft and possession of stolen goods, while Champa is charged additionally with illegal immigration. The judicial process continues with the case referred to the Wang Thonglang Police Station for further legal action, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-03

Thai Taxi Driver Throws Faeces in Parking Dispute, Leaves Community Shocked Photo via Facebook/ อดีตไม่สำคัญ ปัจจุบันสำคัญกว่า A shocking incident has surfaced in Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok, where a taxi driver allegedly threw bags of faeces at a woman's car and others in a parking dispute. The woman, 40-year-old Thitima, took to social media to expose the disturbing behaviour, sharing images of her soiled windscreen and the perpetrator's taxi. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356691-thai-taxi-driver-throws-faeces-in-parking-dispute-leaves-community-shocked/

Photo via Facebook/ อดีตไม่สำคัญ ปัจจุบันสำคัญกว่า A shocking incident has surfaced in Nonthaburi province, near Bangkok, where a taxi driver allegedly threw bags of faeces at a woman's car and others in a parking dispute. The woman, 40-year-old Thitima, took to social media to expose the disturbing behaviour, sharing images of her soiled windscreen and the perpetrator's taxi. The dispute occurred near a bus stop along the Bang Si Meuang–Wat Bot Don Prom Road, a public parking area the taxi driver typically used to wait for passengers. He reacted violently if others parked there, despite it being a shared space. Since February, Thitima has endured the taxi driver’s outrageous acts eight times, with the latest incident on 29th March. Besides soiling her car, the driver also placed nails under her tyres—a plight shared by other motorists parking in the area. To raise awareness and warn others, Thitima shared CCTV footage on Facebook. The video captured the white and pink taxi parked near her car, with the driver exiting his vehicle, sitting on a bench, and eventually defiling her windscreen with a bag of excrement before fleeing. Additional information emerged from internet users, revealing the taxi driver previously stationed at a different location but was forced to move after crashing into a local house. Thitima reported the attacks to the police, yet the taxi driver remains unapprehended. Authorities have not provided any updates on the case, leaving the community anxious over this unresolved and offensive saga, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-03

Bangkok Governor Clashes with Councillor Over Collapse Response Focus Photo via Facebook/ กรุงเทพมหานคร Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt engaged in a tense exchange with a Bangkok Metropolitan Council (BMC) councillor during a meeting at the BMA City Hall on 2nd April. The clash arose from differing views on his priorities at a collapsed building site in Chatuchak. The councillor criticised Chadchart for focusing on "the area where they are already dead," prompting a heated response from the governor. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356689-bangkok-governor-clashes-with-councillor-over-collapse-response-focus/

Photo via Facebook/ กรุงเทพมหานคร Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt engaged in a tense exchange with a Bangkok Metropolitan Council (BMC) councillor during a meeting at the BMA City Hall on 2nd April. The clash arose from differing views on his priorities at a collapsed building site in Chatuchak. The councillor criticised Chadchart for focusing on "the area where they are already dead," prompting a heated response from the governor. The meeting began with a minute of silence for those affected by the Myanmar earthquake. The councillor suggested delaying non-urgent agenda items to allow Chadchart to oversee rescue operations at the building collapse site, but this was met with resistance from some members. Chadchart assured the council that he would leave the meeting at 12.30 pm to focus on the rescue operations. The meeting also addressed other critical issues, including the structural integrity of Bangkok's high-rise buildings and an influenza outbreak, with 160,000 cases reported from January to March. Councillor Peeraphon Kanokwalai expressed concern over the accessibility of influenza vaccines, which many Thai citizens cannot afford. Peeraphon directed his remarks at Chadchart, emphasising the need to prioritise living citizens by ensuring vaccine availability. He criticised Chadchart’s focus on the collapsed site, urging more care for the living. In response, Chadchart defended his focus, insisting that hope remains for survivors and urging greater sensitivity. The governor reminded the council and media that the rescue mission continues in earnest, with no fixed deadline, highlighting a survivor response detected under the rubble, spurring efforts to rescue trapped individuals. The collapse has so far resulted in 15 confirmed deaths, with 72 people still unaccounted for. Chadchart's commitment underscores a balanced approach, maintaining hope for survivors while also addressing ongoing public health concerns, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-03

Police Rescue Teen from Extortion Plot by Call Centre Gang Picture courtesy of ThaiPost A 17-year-old girl named Chompoo has been rescued by police after being held by a call centre gang that attempted to extort 500,000 baht from her grandmother, Banjong, threatening to sell the girl at the border if their demands were not met. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356688-police-rescue-teen-from-extortion-plot-by-call-centre-gang/

Picture courtesy of ThaiPost A 17-year-old girl named Chompoo has been rescued by police after being held by a call centre gang that attempted to extort 500,000 baht from her grandmother, Banjong, threatening to sell the girl at the border if their demands were not met. On 1st April, Chompoo went missing from her home, prompting a distressed phone call to Banjong. The caller claimed Chompoo had borrowed money from loan sharks and demanded a hefty ransom for her release. The following morning, the gang contacted Banjong again, stating that Chompoo was in Mae Sot district, Tak province, pressing for payment. Unable to secure the full amount, Banjong transferred 30,000 baht as a part payment but sensibly alerted the police for assistance. Responding swiftly, Police Lieutenant General Siam Boonsom assigned Police Major Generals Nopasin Poolsawat and Chotiwat Lueangwilai to track down Chompoo, fearing for her safety. Their efforts led to the discovery of Chompoo in a room in Mueang district, Uthai Thani province, where she was alone, under the coercive control of the gang through phone communication. The timely intervention by the police ensured her safe rescue before the gang could act further. Chompoo has since been reunited with her relieved grandmother, while law enforcement now aims to extend their investigation. Police are gathering evidence on the call centre gang, intending to apprehend those responsible for the abduction and extortion attempt. This case underscores the critical importance of prompt police action and serves as a stern reminder of the dangers posed by organised crime exploiting technology to target vulnerable individuals, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-03

Wild Gaurs Found Shot Dead in Nakhon Ratchasima, Poaching Suspected Picture courtesy of MGR Online Two wild gaurs have been found shot dead in Nakhon Ratchasima's Wang Nam Khiao district, as local authorities launch an intensified investigation into suspected poaching. The grim discovery, made on 2nd April at the rear of Yub E Pun village, has triggered a concerted effort to track down the culprits. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356687-wild-gaurs-found-shot-dead-in-nakhon-ratchasima-poaching-suspected/

Picture courtesy of MGR Online Two wild gaurs have been found shot dead in Nakhon Ratchasima's Wang Nam Khiao district, as local authorities launch an intensified investigation into suspected poaching. The grim discovery, made on 2nd April at the rear of Yub E Pun village, has triggered a concerted effort to track down the culprits. The carcasses, discovered by locals and coordinated for investigation by Som Sak Jotklang, Wang Mee's headman, include a male gaur weighing over 1 tonne, riddled with gunshot wounds and estimated to have been dead for at least three days. It is believed the animals were shot elsewhere, staggering to their final resting place before succumbing to their injuries. During their inspection, officials noted a suspicious man carrying a bloodstained backpack who fled upon their approach. A thorough site inspection revealed the remains of a five-year-old male gaur, nearly stripped of its meat, leaving only the head, horns, and ankles, further substantiating suspicions of poaching. Supattra Poonkratok, head of Khao Phaeng Ma Wildlife Sanctuary, confirmed the carcass was located within Phu Luang National Forest, near Khao Yai National Park. Reports indicate a herd of over 20 gaurs frequent the area due to its rich food sources. Sanctuary officials, alongside police, national park, and forest officials, conducted a detailed investigation following the preliminary one on 1st April. Despite attempts to apprehend the fleeing suspect, he managed to escape through a barbed wire fence. Police Major General Phairoj Khunmuen, Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Police commander, has directed a thorough investigation, urging cooperation between the provincial and Wang Nam Khiao Police. Authorities are collecting evidence, interviewing nearby witnesses, and are determined to swiftly identify and prosecute those responsible. To prevent disease transmission, officials buried the gaur remains, treating the site with lime. This case highlights the ongoing challenges of wildlife conservation against illicit poaching in the region, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-03

Nearly 2 Million Meth Pills Seized in Nong Khai Cemetery Raid Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a dramatic operation, nearly 2 million methamphetamine pills have been seized from a cemetery near the Mekong River in Thailand's Nong Khai province. The early morning raid, conducted by the Surasak Montri Task Force's Ranger Company 2104, disrupted a major drug trafficking attempt, leading to the arrest of one suspect. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356686-nearly-2-million-meth-pills-seized-in-nong-khai-cemetery-raid/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a dramatic operation, nearly 2 million methamphetamine pills have been seized from a cemetery near the Mekong River in Thailand's Nong Khai province. The early morning raid, conducted by the Surasak Montri Task Force's Ranger Company 2104, disrupted a major drug trafficking attempt, leading to the arrest of one suspect. The operation took place at 4 am on 2nd April, with forces observing suspicious movements near Ban Woen cemetery in the Mueang subdistrict, Phon Phisai district. Military personnel spotted three individuals retrieving sacks from a riverbank drug drop-off point and placing them on a nearby footpath. As an accomplice arrived by car, the task force moved in, prompting the suspects to flee under the cover of darkness. One suspect escaped in the vehicle, but authorities managed to apprehend another. The operation unearthed seven sacks containing approximately 1,882,000 methamphetamine pills. The joint effort involved local police, Border Patrol Police Company 245, and Nong Khai Marine Police, ensuring the successful seizure of the narcotics. Upon arrest, the suspect admitted to collecting the drugs from across the border, intending to distribute them further inland with his accomplices. The confiscated pills have since been verified at Ranger Company 2104 and handed over to Phon Phisai Police Station for ensuing legal action. This operation highlights the ongoing battle against drug trafficking along Thailand's borders and the crucial role of cooperation among various enforcement agencies in curbing illicit activities, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-03

Thai Senators Face Potential Disqualification Amid Voting Probe Photo courtesy of 9DashLine The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) is advancing a sensational investigation that threatens the status of 30 Thai senators over alleged voter collusion during last year's senatorial elections. The DSI claims to have gathered conclusive evidence, including security camera footage showing questionable peer voting activities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356684-thai-senators-face-potential-disqualification-amid-voting-probe/

Photo courtesy of 9DashLine The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) is advancing a sensational investigation that threatens the status of 30 Thai senators over alleged voter collusion during last year's senatorial elections. The DSI claims to have gathered conclusive evidence, including security camera footage showing questionable peer voting activities. This investigation, potentially resulting in a Supreme Court decision, could have significant ramifications if the Election Commission (EC) aligns with the DSI's findings. The disqualification requests are poised for submission within the next couple of months. Footage from all voting rounds, encompassing district to national levels, has been scrutinised, revealing irregularities in the June 2024 senatorial candidate selections. Although the DSI's inquiry, initially framed through a money laundering lens, has provoked consternation among the 200 senators, the focus on potential voting collusion continues to stir political unease. Despite the investigation being spun as a financial probe to deflect potential claims of EC interference, the DSI's tactics have not gone unnoticed. A faction of senators has approached the Constitutional Court, accusing Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Justice Minister Tawee Sodsong of exerting constitutional breaches by allegedly pushing the DSI into action. The EC's stance on the inquiry remains formally unstated, yet insiders indicate its backing for the investigation and promise of critical footage to enhance the analysis. To fortify its case, the DSI is examining the financial transactions of targeted senators throughout May to June 2024. Furthermore, offering state witness status to certain candidates embroiled in this controversy is under consideration to bolster the investigation's integrity. This unfolding drama underscores the tense intersection of politics and justice in Thailand, as the nation watches closely for developments that could reshape its political landscape, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-03

Thailand Choked by Hazardous Smog as PM2.5 Dust Soars Photo courtesy of The Weather Channel Thailand is experiencing a severe smog crisis, with hazardous levels of PM2.5 dust enveloping 42 provinces, prompting critical health warnings and urging citizens to remain indoors. As of today, 3rd April, the Air Pollution Resolution Communication Centre released data showing alarming air quality, surpassing safe limits across most of the nation, except for the southern region. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356683-thailand-choked-by-hazardous-smog-as-pm25-dust-soars/

Photo courtesy of The Weather Channel Thailand is experiencing a severe smog crisis, with hazardous levels of PM2.5 dust enveloping 42 provinces, prompting critical health warnings and urging citizens to remain indoors. As of today, 3rd April, the Air Pollution Resolution Communication Centre released data showing alarming air quality, surpassing safe limits across most of the nation, except for the southern region. The worst-hit areas include the northern provinces like Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Mae Hong Son, where PM2.5 levels skyrocketed up to 268 µg/m³, far above the national safety threshold of 50 µg/m³. The northeastern region also registered concerning levels ranging from 26.8 to 72.6 µg/m³. Meanwhile, central and western provinces, including Bangkok, Ayutthaya, and Kanchanaburi, recorded levels up to 78.3 µg/m³. Unlike the rest, the southern region enjoyed “very good” air quality, with readings as low as 4.5 µg/m³. In Bangkok, notorious for its air pollution, 15 monitoring stations reported levels between 25.5 and 62.9 µg/m³. These figures were jointly collected by the Pollution Control Department and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. Health authorities have quickly responded with urgent guidelines, advising the public to minimise outdoor activities and use N95 masks for protection. Vulnerable groups, including people with respiratory issues, children, and the elderly, should take particular care and seek medical advice if symptoms occur. In high-risk "red zones," the recommendation is to avoid outdoor exposure entirely due to the severe health risks associated with prolonged inhalation of PM2.5, which can lead to significant respiratory and cardiovascular issues. The situation underscores the urgent need for both immediate precautionary measures and long-term solutions to combat air pollution in Thailand, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-03

Thai Masseurs to Be Trained as Certified Doctors' Assistants Photo courtesy of Hope Rehab The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine has announced a significant initiative to train 20,000 traditional Thai masseurs as certified assistants to Thai traditional doctors. This effort will enable them to address seven specific muscle-related conditions, enhancing their role in medical rehabilitation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356682-thai-masseurs-to-be-trained-as-certified-doctors-assistants/

Photo courtesy of Hope Rehab The Department of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine has announced a significant initiative to train 20,000 traditional Thai masseurs as certified assistants to Thai traditional doctors. This effort will enable them to address seven specific muscle-related conditions, enhancing their role in medical rehabilitation. Doctor Somruek Chungsaman, the department's chief, emphasised on 2nd April the effectiveness of traditional Thai massage for conditions such as frozen shoulder, trigger finger, piriformis syndrome, herniated disc, hemiparesis, paralysis, and knee pain. The upskilling programme aligns with the Ministry of Public Health's strategy to integrate traditional Thai medicine more deeply into the national healthcare system. A robust scientific database is being developed to showcase the benefits of Thai massage, aiming to boost confidence in these treatments and promote Thailand as a leader in medical and wellness tourism. Over 120,000 registered Thai masseurs, according to Doctor Thewan Thanirat, the department’s deputy chief, may be eligible for this advanced training, which will take place in clinical or hospital settings under licensed traditional doctors. Upon certification by the Thai Traditional Massage College, participants can expect their earnings per case to increase from 500 to 800 baht. The training includes health science, specialised massage techniques, and legal and ethical considerations. Dr Thewan aims to train 20,000 masseurs by year’s end to meet growing demand, while also increasing the number of certified trainers by 1,000 to support this expansive educational effort. This initiative marks a significant step towards raising the profile of traditional Thai massage within the global healthcare and wellness sectors, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-03

Luxury Furniture Fuss as State Audit Office Faces Backlash File photo for reference only Details of extravagant expenses for Thailand's new State Audit Office (SAO) have ignited public outrage, particularly on social media, after the building collapsed in Friday's earthquake. The STRONG Anti-Corruption Thailand Facebook page brought the issue to light by revealing the exorbitant costs tied to the building's furniture and fittings. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356681-luxury-furniture-fuss-as-state-audit-office-faces-backlash/

File photo for reference only Details of extravagant expenses for Thailand's new State Audit Office (SAO) have ignited public outrage, particularly on social media, after the building collapsed in Friday's earthquake. The STRONG Anti-Corruption Thailand Facebook page brought the issue to light by revealing the exorbitant costs tied to the building's furniture and fittings. Highlighted among these expenses is a conference chair priced at an astounding 97,900 baht, with 28 chairs purchased solely for two rooms. Additionally, luxury handwoven nylon carpets and leather-upholstered sofas were part of the lavish spending, with carpets in the chairman's office priced at 110,000 baht each. Public reaction has been fierce, with many Thai citizens voicing anger over what they perceive as a blatant misuse of taxpayer funds. Social media erupted with statements criticising the SAO, questioning their capacity to audit government spending effectively when their own expenditures appear so unchecked. The civic outcry calls for enhanced transparency and accountability, pressing the SAO for a justification of such grandiose spending, especially amid governmental cost-cutting measures in other areas. The situation underscores the pressing need for reforms to ensure more prudent use of public money, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-04-03

Thailand Turns Used Cooking Oil into Sustainable Jet Fuel File photo for reference only Thailand is taking a green leap forward, transforming used cooking oil into Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to tackle carbon emissions. Industry Minister Akanat Promphan announced this ambitious project aimed at reducing greenhouse gases by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356679-thailand-turns-used-cooking-oil-into-sustainable-jet-fuel/

File photo for reference only Thailand is taking a green leap forward, transforming used cooking oil into Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to tackle carbon emissions. Industry Minister Akanat Promphan announced this ambitious project aimed at reducing greenhouse gases by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel. The initiative is part of Thailand’s commitment to become carbon neutral by 2050, a goal set by former Premier Prayut Chan-o-cha in 2021 during the UN Climate Change Conference. A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed by the Department of Industrial Promotion and leading businesses, including Bangchak Corporation and major food companies like Central Group and Thai Beverage. These partners will manage the collection of used cooking oil and educate the public on its environmental benefits. Natthiya Netayasubha, chief of the Department of Industrial Promotion, mentioned that authorities are keenly analyzing SAF demand and exploring various raw materials like palm oil and sugar cane molasses for SAF production. Bangchak Corp President Chaiwat Kovavisarach emphasized the need for government mandates on SAF requirements in the aviation industry. In line with this, Bangchak Corp is nearing completion of an SAF factory, set to produce 1 million litres daily, in Phra Khanong district. It's an eco-friendly stride towards a sustainable future, reported Bangkok Post. -- 2025-04-03

Thailand in Talks with US Over New Tariffs File photo for reference only Thailand is set to negotiate tariff rates with the United States after President Trump announced a 36% tariff on Thai imports. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra reassured the public, stating the aim is to keep GDP growth on track, with a robust plan in place. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356678-thailand-in-talks-with-us-over-new-tariffs/

File photo for reference only Thailand is set to negotiate tariff rates with the United States after President Trump announced a 36% tariff on Thai imports. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra reassured the public, stating the aim is to keep GDP growth on track, with a robust plan in place. "We are prepared to address this, and will send our permanent secretary to engage in talks," she said on Thursday. Deputy Finance Minister Julapun Amornvivat noted that although the tariff was higher than expected, dialogue with the US could find a resolution. Thailand's significant trade surplus with the US, amounting to $45 billion in 2022, is a key factor in these negotiations. The US remains Thailand's top export market with electronics, machinery, and agricultural goods leading exports. The Thai Chamber of Commerce, led by Poj Aramwattananont, is urging quick negotiations, as the tariff exceeded their anticipated 25%. Despite being on the "Dirty 15" list of countries potentially most affected by these tariffs, Deputy Minister Julapun emphasizes understanding and flexible adjustments in talks with the US. InnovestX Securities warned that reciprocated tariffs could reduce Thailand's GDP by up to 1.2 percentage points from the projected 2.5% growth. The announcement also shook Southeast Asian markets, with currencies and stocks declining sharply. The Thai baht dropped 0.8% against the US dollar, whereas stock indices in Singapore and Malaysia fell significantly. ING Bank analysts described the region as the hardest hit by Trump's tariff policy. The US's increased tariffs include 46% on Vietnam’s exports and 32% on Indonesia’s, inflaming global trade tensions. Analysts and investors are now closely watching potential retaliatory moves from affected nations like China, which faces a hefty 54% tariff. While some countries rule out retaliation, the global trade environment remains tense, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-04-03

Thailand Urged to Form ‘War Room’ in Response to US Tariffs File photo for reference only Thailand faces a major economic challenge as US President Donald Trump announced a 36% tariff on Thai imports. Dr. Santitarn Sathienthai, a member of Thailand’s Monetary Policy Committee, suggests the urgent creation of a “war room” to tackle the potential economic fallout. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356677-thailand-urged-to-form-‘war-room’-in-response-to-us-tariffs/

Bangkok Building Collapse Sets Unwanted World Records Pictures courtesy of Matichon Thailand faces global scrutiny after the new State Audit Office (SAO) building in Bangkok collapsed, setting grim world records: it's the tallest building to fall in an earthquake and the furthest from an epicenter to suffer such a fate. The March 28 earthquake in Myanmar caused severe tremors, tragically affecting the SAO building, with many deaths and injuries reported, and workers still missing. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356676-bangkok-building-collapse-sets-unwanted-world-records/