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Pattaya Police Investigate Fatal Incident at Abandoned Condo Photo via Pattaya Mail Pattaya police are investigating the death of 50-year-old Somjai, whose body was discovered at an abandoned eight-story condominium. The incident unfolded when a plan to steal scrap metal and electrical wires from the building took a tragic turn. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356340-pattaya-police-investigate-fatal-incident-at-abandoned-condo/

Photo via Pattaya Mail Pattaya police are investigating the death of 50-year-old Somjai, whose body was discovered at an abandoned eight-story condominium. The incident unfolded when a plan to steal scrap metal and electrical wires from the building took a tragic turn. On March 30, authorities found Somjai on the second floor with a severe head injury, estimated to have occurred around six hours before his body was discovered. Close to him were makeshift bamboo and wooden ladders linking the second and third floors. The alert was raised by Panya, a 43-year-old friend and accomplice, who was in shock and covered in blood when police arrived. Panya confessed to their intent to steal the property's materials, detailing how they entered around noon, with him staying on the first floor while Somjai climbed the ladders to start the theft. Panya recounted hearing a loud thud and finding Somjai unconscious upon climbing to the second floor. Despite attempts to help him, Somjai was already deceased. Investigators believe Somjai's fatal fall occurred during an attempt to ascend to the third floor, leading to his head injuries on the concrete below. The body has been sent for an autopsy at the Police Hospital in Bangkok. Further questioning of Panya is planned, with legal actions pending for theft, trespassing, and possible drug offenses. The building's owner will also be involved in the investigation's next steps to shed light on the tragic incident and prepare for additional legal proceedings, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-31

Devotees Flock to Chon Buri Temple After Lottery Blessing Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Pilgrims are flocking to Wat Khao Chong Lom in Chon Buri’s Si Racha district, drawn by the 9.9-metre statue of Thao Wessuwan Thonglon, following another lottery win attributed to the deity's blessing. This incident marks the fourth first-prize win linked to prayers at the temple this year. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356338-devotees-flock-to-chon-buri-temple-after-lottery-blessing/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Pilgrims are flocking to Wat Khao Chong Lom in Chon Buri’s Si Racha district, drawn by the 9.9-metre statue of Thao Wessuwan Thonglon, following another lottery win attributed to the deity's blessing. This incident marks the fourth first-prize win linked to prayers at the temple this year. On March 30, a woman who won 6 million baht (approximately US$176,850) in the March 16 lottery returned to express her gratitude through offerings. Her story echoed a promise made during her pre-draw visit with her family, seeking a financial windfall in exchange for future offerings if her prayers were answered. With news spreading of her win, devotees from across the region have been visiting the temple to pray and seek blessings, hoping to receive lucky numbers for the upcoming April 1 lottery draw. After praying, many light incense as part of the ritual seeking fortune. Regulars who previously experienced similar blessings have been giving back by setting up charity booths, distributing snacks and drinks weekly. The temple continues to welcome visitors eager for a touch of luck, while the car park has reportedly reached full capacity due to the influx. Individuals interested in visiting Wat Khao Chong Lom can pray at the Thao Wessuwan Thonglon statue from 6am to 7pm on weekdays and until 8pm on weekends. For additional information, potential visitors may contact 064-1700645 or follow the temple’s official page, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-31

Police Bust Illegal Poker Operation in Koh Samui, Arrest Five Photo courtesy of MGR online Over the past weekend, authorities from Bo Phut Police Station, alongside Surat Thani Immigration officials, conducted a successful raid on an illegal gambling operation in Koh Samui. The suspects were discovered playing poker in a rented building near Khao Phra Hill, following investigations into the Facebook page "Immoreal House Samui," which was allegedly used to organise the gambling events. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356336-police-bust-illegal-poker-operation-in-koh-samui-arrest-five/

Photo courtesy of MGR online Over the past weekend, authorities from Bo Phut Police Station, alongside Surat Thani Immigration officials, conducted a successful raid on an illegal gambling operation in Koh Samui. The suspects were discovered playing poker in a rented building near Khao Phra Hill, following investigations into the Facebook page "Immoreal House Samui," which was allegedly used to organise the gambling events. The raid resulted in the arrest of five individuals: four foreigners and one Thai citizen. The foreign nationals were identified as Mr. Aleksandr (Russian), Mr. Ruslan (Ukrainian), Mr. Stanley (French), and Mr. Dmitrii (Russian). The Thai citizen, Mr. Muhamad, admitted to managing the Facebook page and organising the venue for these gambling sessions. Authorities seized numerous items, including two mobile poker tables, 20 decks of playing cards, chips used as currency, a sand timer, CCTV equipment, and additional materials totaling 29 items. Mr. Muhamad confessed that he had been facilitating these poker games for around five months, hosting up to four events per month. Initially operating in another Bo Phut location, the operations were moved to the current venue which was rented by another Thai individual, Mr. Fuse, who paid Mr. Muhamad a monthly fee of 10,000 baht to manage the activities. The foreign participants admitted to their involvement in illegal gambling, and all faced charges for “engaging in unauthorized gambling involving poker for valuables.” Mr. Muhamad faced extra charges for “organizing and hosting illegal gambling activities for valuables.” The investigation benefited from foreign informants embedded within the group, who confirmed the operations before the raid. The suspects believed their connections to high-ranking law enforcement would protect them from legal repercussions. Now, all five suspects have been taken to Bo Phut Police Station for additional questioning, with further proceedings at the Koh Samui Provincial Court. Authorities are actively seeking Mr. Fuse for further questioning regarding his involvement, reported The Phuket Express. -- 2025-03-31

Pattaya Police Crack Down on Counterfeit Perfume Operation Picture courtesy of Yahoo In a significant crackdown, Pattaya police have dismantled a counterfeit perfume ring, arresting two women accused of selling fake designer fragrances at a local shopping centre. A total of 226 fake branded scent bottles, potentially posing health risks, were seized during the operation. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356334-pattaya-police-crack-down-on-counterfeit-perfume-operation/

Picture courtesy of Yahoo In a significant crackdown, Pattaya police have dismantled a counterfeit perfume ring, arresting two women accused of selling fake designer fragrances at a local shopping centre. A total of 226 fake branded scent bottles, potentially posing health risks, were seized during the operation. The suspects, Kanyapat (38) and Araya (37), face charges of "jointly offering for sale goods bearing counterfeit trademarks," a serious offence targeting unauthorised merchandise sales. This arrest is part of the Economic Crime Suppression Division's (ECD) heightened efforts to curb counterfeit activities in Pattaya. Officers uncovered the illegal operation during a routine patrol on the shopping mall's first floor, where they found the women selling cheap knock-offs. Subsequent checks confirmed the false nature of the fragrances, leading to the seizure. Both women reportedly confessed to being employed by a foreign individual to distribute the counterfeit products. Following their apprehension, they were transported to Pattaya Police Station for legal proceedings, along with the seized goods. Authorities urge shoppers to remain vigilant against bargain perfumes that might contain harmful chemicals, advising purchases from reputable retailers only, as reported by Pattaya News. The police continue their pursuit of the operation's mastermind to put an end to this illegal trade, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-31

Father in Nakhon Phanom Under Investigation for Alleged Child Assault Picture courtesy of MGR Online Authorities in Nakhon Phanom are investigating a disturbing incident where a father, reportedly under the influence of methamphetamine, allegedly assaulted his young child by submerging the toddler's head underwater. The incident took place in Chum Chon Noi Tai, prompting swift intervention by district officials. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356331-father-in-nakhon-phanom-under-investigation-for-alleged-child-assault/

Picture courtesy of MGR Online Authorities in Nakhon Phanom are investigating a disturbing incident where a father, reportedly under the influence of methamphetamine, allegedly assaulted his young child by submerging the toddler's head underwater. The incident took place in Chum Chon Noi Tai, prompting swift intervention by district officials. On March 30, district chief Somsak Boonchan was alerted by concerned residents, who provided a video showing the alleged abuse. Responding to the urgent call, a special operations team led by security officer Chakrapol Thiangphak was dispatched to the scene near Wat Noi Phothikham. The investigation led them to the residence of 56-year-old To Yalai, who confessed to assaulting his one-year-old child. To admitted his frustration led to the violent act when the child defecated in a basin. Despite his acknowledgment, no illegal substances were found at his home. However, a urine test confirmed drug traces in To's system. To, who appeared disoriented during questioning, revealed his wife had left, leaving him solely responsible for their child. He survives by collecting and selling scrap metal using a modified tricycle, which doubles as a crib for the child. The video evidence showed the child sustaining minor injuries, including one near the right eye. To, who conceded occasional drug use, claimed he sourced methamphetamine locally. Authorities are taking steps to ensure the child's safety, with the child being examined at Nakhon Phanom Hospital. They are also coordinating with social services to provide necessary care and support. As the investigation continues, no formal charges have been filed against To, pending the outcome of the medical assessment and further inquiries, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-31

Suspect Arrested in Fatal Stabbing of Teen at Nonthaburi Petrol Station Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Significant progress has been made in the investigation of the tragic stabbing of 17-year-old Anuchit at a petrol station in Bang Bua Thong district, Nonthaburi province. The incident, which unfolded in the early hours of March 26, involved a brutal assault by four youths, resulting in Anuchit being stabbed five times in the chest. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356330-suspect-arrested-in-fatal-stabbing-of-teen-at-nonthaburi-petrol-station/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Significant progress has been made in the investigation of the tragic stabbing of 17-year-old Anuchit at a petrol station in Bang Bua Thong district, Nonthaburi province. The incident, which unfolded in the early hours of March 26, involved a brutal assault by four youths, resulting in Anuchit being stabbed five times in the chest. By March 30, authorities detained the primary suspect, 21-year-old Singha, in a rented room in Bangkok's Bang Khun Non area. The arrest was led by Police Major General Kittithanet Tananantawisin, Commander of the Nonthaburi Provincial Police. Major General Kittithanet disclosed that Singha was apprehended at his girlfriend's younger sister's residence. During initial questioning, Singha admitted to the stabbing, claiming a previous altercation at the Sombat Buri market sparked the attack. He alleged that a hostile look exchanged between their groups led to him and his accomplices pursuing Anuchit on motorcycles, culminating in the fatal encounter. Despite this confession, the police remain cautious, planning to conduct further interviews with witnesses to verify Singha's narrative. Investigators have gathered critical evidence, including clothing worn during the crime and a pair of shoes stained with blood. The knife believed to have been used is also under examination. Singha faces serious charges, including intentional murder and carrying a weapon in public without justification. Ongoing forensic analysis aims to strengthen the case against him, ensuring justice for Anuchit and his family, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-31

Bangkok Building Evacuations Triggered by Vibration Reports Despite No Quake Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Panic briefly gripped parts of Bangkok as buildings were evacuated in response to reports of mysterious vibrations and cracks, despite official assurances that no earthquake had occurred in Thailand. The incidents unfolded around 10 am on March 31, affecting key locations like Building A of the Government Complex on Chaeng Watthana Road, the Ministry of Labour in Din Daeng, and court buildings on Ratchadaphisek Road. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356329-bangkok-building-evacuations-triggered-by-vibration-reports-despite-no-quake/

z Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Panic briefly gripped parts of Bangkok as buildings were evacuated in response to reports of mysterious vibrations and cracks, despite official assurances that no earthquake had occurred in Thailand. The incidents unfolded around 10 am on March 31, affecting key locations like Building A of the Government Complex on Chaeng Watthana Road, the Ministry of Labour in Din Daeng, and court buildings on Ratchadaphisek Road. Staff at several significant sites, including the Government Housing Bank in Huai Khwang and the Criminal Court, were evacuated as a precautionary measure. Rumours swiftly circulated after individuals reported tremors and observed unsettling cracks within buildings. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra promptly addressed the situation, affirming that according to the Thai Meteorological Department, there was no seismic activity within Thailand. He reassured the public that any aftershocks from Myanmar posed no threat to the country. Officials clarified that the concerning cracks were not new but pre-existing, yet building owners have been instructed to conduct thorough inspections to confirm the status and safety of the structures. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt emphasised that structural assessments are critical before buildings are cleared for re-entry. The governor urged those unsure about a building’s integrity to consult the Department of Public Works and Town & Country Planning or the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) for an expert evaluation. While evacuation decisions are left to individual organisations, officials underscored that such actions should rely on verified facts rather than social media speculation. In the absence of any confirmed seismic activity, the public is encouraged to remain calm and turn to official sources for reliable information, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-31

Phuket's Saranrat Pueakpipat Wins Miss Grand Thailand 2025 Crown Picture courtesy of Pattaya news In a night brimming with glitz and glamour, Saranrat "Gotchabell" Pueakpipat from Phuket was crowned Miss Grand Thailand 2025 on March 29. This stunning victory not only marks Phuket's third win but also its first back-to-back triumph in the pageant's history. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356327-phukets-saranrat-pueakpipat-wins-miss-grand-thailand-2025-crown/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya news In a night brimming with glitz and glamour, Saranrat "Gotchabell" Pueakpipat from Phuket was crowned Miss Grand Thailand 2025 on March 29. This stunning victory not only marks Phuket's third win but also its first back-to-back triumph in the pageant's history. Saranrat's performance wowed the judges with her poise and elegance, making her the undisputed choice for the crown. The competition concluded with Khon Kaen’s Chayathanus "Cheraim" Saradatta as first runner-up and Lampang’s Doctor Natthinee "Jan" Thanatpornphinyo as second runner-up. Lamphun's Panichada "Sobam" Kongsawanya and Bangkok’s Kanaporn "Kana" Phatthanaphan completed the top five. Looking ahead, Saranrat will represent Thailand at the Miss Grand International 2025, hosted in Thailand later this year. As she prepares for this international stage, the pressure is on to deliver another victory for her country. The event at MGI Hall was a dazzling display of talent and competition, underscoring the fierce rivalry of this prestigious pageant. Pageant enthusiasts were thrilled as Thailand crowned its 13th Miss Grand Thailand, highlighting the country's passion for pageantry. Phuket's dominance in the beauty pageant scene continues with Saranrat's win. Last year, Thaweeporn "Aoom" Phingchamrat brought home the title for Phuket and impressed at Miss Grand International 2024, finishing in the top 10. As Saranrat steps into the spotlight, the nation rallies behind her, hoping she will echo the success of previous pageant champions. With her elegance and stage presence, Saranrat has already captured the hearts of many, and Thailand watches eagerly as she takes on the international pageantry world, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-31

Parliament Prepares to Debate Thailand's Entertainment Complex Bill File photo for reference only Thailand is gearing up for a critical parliamentary debate on the entertainment complex bill, expected to take centre stage by April 9. The bill, approved by the Cabinet on March 27, is set to be deliberated in the House, as confirmed by chief government whip Wisut Chainarun. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356326-parliament-prepares-to-debate-thailands-entertainment-complex-bill/

File photo for reference only Thailand is gearing up for a critical parliamentary debate on the entertainment complex bill, expected to take centre stage by April 9. The bill, approved by the Cabinet on March 27, is set to be deliberated in the House, as confirmed by chief government whip Wisut Chainarun. Wisut, a list-MP from Pheu Thai, assured that the bill would receive ample discussion time. While coalition MPs are anticipated to support it, dialogue with the opposition remains pending. The bill promises significant economic potential, especially in popular tourist destinations like Phuket. Phuket Tourist Association President, Thanet Tantipiriyakit, is optimistic, advocating for a world-class entertainment venue minus casinos, highlighting family-friendly attractions to extend tourist stays. Proposals include a high-end water park, sports complex, cultural centre, or theme park, aimed at attracting longer visits and increased spending. Currently, tourists typically spend five to eight days in Phuket. Thanet argues that enhancing entertainment options could bolster local tourism and reduce dependency on seasonal visitors. The government sees the bill as transformative, with entertainment complexes featuring concert halls, sports arenas, water parks, and limited casino areas, potentially generating 119–283 billion baht annually and boosting foreign arrivals by 5–10%. However, not all are convinced of the bill's merits. Political activist Jatuporn Prompan staged a protest outside Government House, voicing concerns over potential social issues arising from legalised gambling. He warned that it could lead to increased crime and family disruptions, and even enlisted a monk to highlight the moral implications. As the debate looms, Thailand stands at a crossroads, balancing economic ambitions with societal concerns. The outcome could reshape the nation's entertainment landscape, impacting tourism and local communities alike, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-31

False Alarm at Police Hospital Amid Earthquake Fears; Structural Safety Reassured File photo for reference only This morning, Police Hospital witnessed chaos as patients and the public swiftly evacuated, fearing the building was about to collapse. Medical personnel moved patients to safety, spurred by a misunderstanding fueled by social media images of another building, Ratchaburi Direkrit Building, tilting. However, hospital authorities quickly calmed fears, assuring that their structure remained sound and undamaged. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356325-false-alarm-at-police-hospital-amid-earthquake-fears-structural-safety-reassured/

False Alarm at Police Hospital Amid Earthquake Fears; Structural Safety Reassured File photo for reference only This morning, Police Hospital witnessed chaos as patients and the public swiftly evacuated, fearing the building was about to collapse. Medical personnel moved patients to safety, spurred by a misunderstanding fueled by social media images of another building, Ratchaburi Direkrit Building, tilting. However, hospital authorities quickly calmed fears, assuring that their structure remained sound and undamaged. Pol. Lt. Col. Samart Muangsiri clarified that no damage had occurred at the hospital, attributing the panic to incorrect online associations with the Government Complex Building A situation. Meanwhile, in Samut Prakan, about 200 workers were evacuated from a 28-storey building project after unexplained tremors. The building's stability is under review before construction resumes. In response to widespread tremors in Bangkok, Governor Chadchart Sittipunt and Deputy Governor Wisanu Traiphumpol assured the public that major aftershocks are unlikely and overall building structures are sturdy. They emphasized that while minor aftershocks persist, the risk of significant shaking is low, using scientific data to allay concerns. Despite the morning’s evacuations, including at City Hall 2, officials reassured that slight shaking is expected in tall buildings due to wind or other forces. The hotline 1555 is available for reporting new, not old, structural cracks for expert inspection. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra visited the site of the 30-storey State Audit Building collapse to support rescue teams, who are continuing the search for survivors using advanced thermal drones. These efforts highlight sustained commitment to safety and thorough disaster response in Thailand, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-31

TMD Assures Safety as Minor Aftershock Felt in Bangkok High-Rises Picture courtesy of KhaoSod The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has confirmed that a minor aftershock from an earthquake in Myanmar, felt in several tall buildings around Bangkok today, poses no threat to Thailand. At 11.08 am on March 31, some residents in high-rise buildings experienced shaking, prompting temporary evacuations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356324-tmd-assures-safety-as-minor-aftershock-felt-in-bangkok-high-rises/

TMD Assures Safety as Minor Aftershock Felt in Bangkok High-Rises Picture courtesy of KhaoSod The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has confirmed that a minor aftershock from an earthquake in Myanmar, felt in several tall buildings around Bangkok today, poses no threat to Thailand. At 11.08 am on March 31, some residents in high-rise buildings experienced shaking, prompting temporary evacuations. In a significant incident, building A at the Government Complex on Chaeng Watthana Road, which houses crucial governmental bodies like the Constitutional Court and the Central Bankruptcy Court, was evacuated after loud cracks were heard and chunks of plaster fell. The Central Bankruptcy Court section appeared to be tilting, raising immediate safety concerns. An emergency announcement instructed all personnel to evacuate, and officials are currently conducting an inspection to verify the building's structural safety. Despite the chaotic evacuation, the TMD reassured that the aftershocks from Myanmar do not pose any substantial threat to Thailand. The prime minister echoed these reassurances via the social media platform X, stating that no earthquakes had originated in Thailand and that the Myanmar aftershocks had no tangible impact. Officials clarified that the cracks causing the alarm were pre-existing conditions rather than new seismic activity effects. Building owners across Bangkok, following the governor's directive, are urged to inspect their properties to assess any old or new damage, seeking evaluations from public works and disaster prevention authorities if necessary. The government advises basing evacuation decisions on confirmed, official information to avoid panic. This approach ensures public safety while maintaining assurance during future seismic events, emphasising the need for informed and measured responses, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-31

NBTC Chairman Faces Criticism Over Delayed SMS Quake Alerts in Bangkok File photo for reference only A member of Thailand's National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has openly criticised Chairman Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck, blaming him for delays and failures in SMS earthquake alerts following the powerful tremors felt in Bangkok on Friday. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356322-nbtc-chairman-faces-criticism-over-delayed-sms-quake-alerts-in-bangkok/

File photo for reference only A member of Thailand's National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) has openly criticised Chairman Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruck, blaming him for delays and failures in SMS earthquake alerts following the powerful tremors felt in Bangkok on Friday. Thanapant Raicharoen, an NBTC member, voiced his concerns via Facebook, attributing the alert failures to Sarana's centralised approach to decision-making. The 8.2-magnitude quake that struck Myanmar on Friday was sensed in Bangkok, with many residents taking to social media to express their frustration at the lack of timely warnings from authorities, including the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department (DPMD). Currently, the DPMD is working on implementing a cell broadcast alert system. In the meantime, it is the NBTC Office's role to coordinate with mobile operators to disseminate alerts. However, Thanapant's post suggested that Sarana's insistence that directives must be issued under his sole authority, per Article 56 of the NBTC Act, has impeded the prompt distribution of warnings. In his Facebook post, Thanapant shared three letters from Sarana, underscoring the requirement for all action orders to emanate directly from the chairman, effectively pointing to a bottleneck in communication. While not directly accusing Sarana of neglecting his responsibilities, Thanapant's tone implied dissatisfaction with the response to the quake. These documents, now publicly accessible, highlight Sarana's directive to centralise all instructions through his office, sidelining other commissioners from issuing operational orders directly. With criticism mounting, there is an ongoing debate about the effectiveness of the NBTC's current operational protocol and the need for a more decentralised, responsive approach in crisis situations, reported The Nation. -- 2025-03-31

Bhumjaithai Party Mulls Expulsion of MP Ekkarat for Rival Event Attendance Bhumjaithai MP Ekkarat Changlao | Photo via spacebar.th The Bhumjaithai Party is weighing the expulsion of Khon Kaen MP Ekkarat Changlao after his attendance at a Kla Dharma Party event in the region. The meeting, held to establish a new Kla Dharma branch, has sparked discussions within Bhumjaithai regarding Ekkarat's future within their ranks. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1356321-bhumjaithai-party-mulls-expulsion-of-mp-ekkarat-for-rival-event-attendance/