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Tragic Collision: Train Hits Pickup in Trang, Four Fatalities Reported Photo courtesy of Thairath In a devastating accident yesterday, a rapid train collided with a pickup truck in the Kantang district of Trang province. The crash, occurring at 2.40pm, resulted in the deaths of four passengers who were casually travelling in the back of the pickup truck. This unfortunate incident involved train number 168, venturing from Kantang to Krungthep Aphiwat, and a bronze-black half-cab pickup, reportedly originating from Songkhla. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354605-tragic-collision-train-hits-pickup-in-trang-four-fatalities-reported/

Photo courtesy of Thairath In a devastating accident yesterday, a rapid train collided with a pickup truck in the Kantang district of Trang province. The crash, occurring at 2.40pm, resulted in the deaths of four passengers who were casually travelling in the back of the pickup truck. This unfortunate incident involved train number 168, venturing from Kantang to Krungthep Aphiwat, and a bronze-black half-cab pickup, reportedly originating from Songkhla. The accident unfolded when the train, despite sounding its horn, collided with the pickup at a railway crossing. Witnesses nearby described a thunderous bang that prompted them to rush to the scene, where they found the pickup severely damaged. The front of the vehicle, especially the driver's side, was significantly compromised, with the hood open and the windshield shattered. Upon investigation, it was revealed that the pickup housed ten individuals—only those in the front remained relatively unharmed. However, the seven passengers in the back were fatally thrown from the vehicle. The passengers had been travelling to Songkhla on a shrimp-catching expedition when the tragedy struck. Explaining his inability to prevent the collision, the train driver reported seeing the pickup venture across the tracks at the last moment. Despite immediate action to signal the warning horn, it was too late to avoid collision. The aftermath saw chaos and distress as items and people were scattered about. Initial speculation suggests the pickup driver may have misjudged the train’s proximity or failed to hear the warning horn in time, falsely assuming a safe crossing. As authorities continue to investigate further, local communities are left to grapple with the tragic loss and highlight the pressing need for improved safety measures at railway crossings, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-14

Hungarian Detained in Thailand for Illegal Motorbike Business A 40-year-old Hungarian man, Laszlo Meszaros, was arrested on the Thai island of Koh Pha Ngan for allegedly operating a motorbike rental business, an occupation reserved exclusively for Thai nationals. The arrest, overseen by Police Colonel Apichart Chansamret, came after numerous tourist complaints that Meszaros threatened customers with an air gun over disputes about motorbike damages and unpaid fees. During the search of his rented home, police confiscated the air gun and discovered 29 passports from other tourists, intensifying concerns about his operations. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354604-hungarian-detained-in-thailand-for-illegal-motorbike-business/

A 40-year-old Hungarian man, Laszlo Meszaros, was arrested on the Thai island of Koh Pha Ngan for allegedly operating a motorbike rental business, an occupation reserved exclusively for Thai nationals. The arrest, overseen by Police Colonel Apichart Chansamret, came after numerous tourist complaints that Meszaros threatened customers with an air gun over disputes about motorbike damages and unpaid fees. During the search of his rented home, police confiscated the air gun and discovered 29 passports from other tourists, intensifying concerns about his operations. Meszaros entered Thailand on a tourist visa without a proper work permit and had nine motorbikes available for hire. Despite allegations against him, he denies using the air gun for intimidation. However, he faces charges for engaging in a business prohibited to foreigners, as Thai law requires certain occupations, like motorbike rentals, to be conducted only by citizens. This incident is part of a broader crackdown on foreigners illegally engaging in business activities usually preserved for Thais. The authorities are keen on curbing such practices to protect local employment. Meszaros remains in police custody while investigations are ongoing, marking yet another example of the stringent enforcement of Thailand’s business regulations on its shores, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-14

Slovenia Voices Concern over Thailand's Deportation of Uyghurs File photo for reference only Slovenia has expressed regret over Thailand's decision to deport 40 Uyghurs back to China, with Deputy Prime Minister Tanja Fajon urging the importance of human rights considerations among UN Human Rights Council members. The Uyghurs, detained for ten years in a Thai immigration facility, were moved to China's Xinjiang region last month, raising fears of persecution. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354603-slovenia-voices-concern-over-thailands-deportation-of-uyghurs/

File photo for reference only Slovenia has expressed regret over Thailand's decision to deport 40 Uyghurs back to China, with Deputy Prime Minister Tanja Fajon urging the importance of human rights considerations among UN Human Rights Council members. The Uyghurs, detained for ten years in a Thai immigration facility, were moved to China's Xinjiang region last month, raising fears of persecution. Western nations and global rights groups have criticised the repatriation, voicing concerns over potential ill-treatment by Chinese authorities. Despite the uproar, Fajon remains optimistic, highlighting the necessity for open discussions and increased European engagement to ensure human rights adherence. During her two-day official visit to Thailand, Fajon emphasised continued collaboration, appreciating Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa's willingness to discuss sensitive issues. Her trip preceded her visit to the Philippines, marking an effort to strengthen diplomatic relations in the region, reported Thai PBS World. -- 2025-03-14

British Tourists Arrested in Phuket for Reckless Driving and Attack Photo via Facebook/ เหยี่ยวข่าว ภูเก็ต Newshawk Phuket In a dramatic incident outside Patong Hospital in Phuket, Thai police have apprehended three British men in connection with a hit-and-run that escalated into an attempted stabbing. The altercation began when a Thai motorcyclist collided with a white Ford Raptor pickup, with registration plate กฉ 1, driven by the foreign nationals. The driver attempted to stab the motorcyclist before all three fled the scene. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354600-british-tourists-arrested-in-phuket-for-reckless-driving-and-attack/

Photo via Facebook/ เหยี่ยวข่าว ภูเก็ต Newshawk Phuket In a dramatic incident outside Patong Hospital in Phuket, Thai police have apprehended three British men in connection with a hit-and-run that escalated into an attempted stabbing. The altercation began when a Thai motorcyclist collided with a white Ford Raptor pickup, with registration plate กฉ 1, driven by the foreign nationals. The driver attempted to stab the motorcyclist before all three fled the scene. After tracking down the suspects, all 26-year-old British nationals, police charged them under two sections of Thai criminal law. These charges include reckless driving causing injury and property damage, which carries penalties of up to one month in prison or a 10,000 baht fine, and carrying a weapon in a public space, punishable by a 100 baht fine. The incident has sparked outrage among Thai netizens, who have criticised the perceived leniency of the charges, arguing for harsher consequences such as deportation and entry bans to prevent future offences. They assert that merely fining offenders allows them to evade meaningful punishment and potentially repeat their criminal behaviour. Amidst growing pressure, there is an increasing call for authorities to revoke the men's driving licences and take a firmer stance against foreign nationals engaging in reckless and harmful conduct. As the story develops, the public's concern over effective law enforcement continues to mount, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-14

Victory Monument Earns Protected Ancient Site Status in Bangkok Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod In a landmark decision, Bangkok's iconic Victory Monument has been officially registered as an ancient site, ensuring its preservation for future generations. The Royal Gazette published the announcement yesterday, following the Fine Arts Department's declaration under the Ancient Monuments, Antiques, Objects of Art and National Museums Act 1961. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354522-victory-monument-earns-protected-ancient-site-status-in-bangkok/

Pictures courtesy of KhaoSod In a landmark decision, Bangkok's iconic Victory Monument has been officially registered as an ancient site, ensuring its preservation for future generations. The Royal Gazette published the announcement yesterday, following the Fine Arts Department's declaration under the Ancient Monuments, Antiques, Objects of Art and National Museums Act 1961. Unveiled in 1942, Victory Monument commemorates 59 Thai heroes who fell during the Indochina conflict with France. Designed by renowned architect Mom Luang Pum Malakul, this monument is central to Bangkok's urban tapestry, serving as both a symbol of patriotism and a bustling transport hub. The new protected status, covering an area in Ratchathewi district, bars unauthorised alterations, safeguarding the monument's historical integrity. While many Thais celebrate this move, some urban planners and business owners voice concerns over potential restrictions on future development. Despite differing views, the monument's recognition as a historic site reinforces its role as a testament to Thailand’s resilience and national pride. Plans are in place to amplify conservation efforts and foster historical appreciation among locals and visitors alike, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

New Shuttle Service Bridges Bangkok's Airports to Pattaya Shores Picture courtesy of Pattaya Mail Travellers have reason to rejoice as the Transport Company Ltd. launches a new shuttle bus service linking Don Mueang International Airport and Pattaya, enhancing connectivity like never before. This latest addition, announced on March 8 by Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote, aligns with Thailand’s strategic initiative to bolster tourism by improving transport links between key aviation hubs and popular locales. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354514-new-shuttle-service-bridges-bangkoks-airports-to-pattaya-shores/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya Mail Travellers have reason to rejoice as the Transport Company Ltd. launches a new shuttle bus service linking Don Mueang International Airport and Pattaya, enhancing connectivity like never before. This latest addition, announced on March 8 by Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote, aligns with Thailand’s strategic initiative to bolster tourism by improving transport links between key aviation hubs and popular locales. The glossy pink buses, a trademark appearance for the company, start their journey from Sukhumvit Road, directly across the Father Ray Foundation, and head towards the bustling Bangkok entryway. The schedule promises convenience with tickets available at Don Mueang Airport's Terminal 1 and 2 for international and domestic travellers, respectively. In Pattaya, passengers can hop on the bus just opposite the foundation. Whether you're transferring between flights or heading to a sunny beach getaway, this service simplifies travel logistics, saving time and easing commutes. Running from early hours at 5am until 8pm, booking slots can be secured by phone or online, though early adopters should double-check digital service availability. With this move, Thailand not only strengthens its airport connectivity but also opens new avenues for economic stimulus through tourism, marking a significant uptick in regional integration. As the pink shuttle service glides into operation, it paves the way for a seamless travel experience, promising stress-free voyages for residents and tourists alike, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

Inmates Allege Brutal Abuse at Khaobin Prison, Family Seeks Justice Photo via MGR Online Inmates at Khaobin Prison in Ratchaburi, Thailand, are at the centre of abuse allegations, with families urging the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) for a transparent inquiry. A woman claims her 30-year-old son, imprisoned for drug offences, disclosed abuse by guards. Accompanied by lawyer Ronnarong Kaewphet, she expressed fears for her son's life, referencing former officer Joe Ferrari's suspicious prison death. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354513-inmates-allege-brutal-abuse-at-khaobin-prison-family-seeks-justice/

Photo via MGR Online Inmates at Khaobin Prison in Ratchaburi, Thailand, are at the centre of abuse allegations, with families urging the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) for a transparent inquiry. A woman claims her 30-year-old son, imprisoned for drug offences, disclosed abuse by guards. Accompanied by lawyer Ronnarong Kaewphet, she expressed fears for her son's life, referencing former officer Joe Ferrari's suspicious prison death. The son reportedly detailed assault during a December meeting, saying he feared he might never see his family again. On a January visit, his mother noticed his weight loss, and he revealed reduced food as punishment. Subsequently, he was banned from family visits after a prison altercation. An ex-inmate, recently released, corroborated these claims, presenting evidence of abuse and a letter from the son. The ex-inmate's injuries support allegations of excessive guard punishment. The situation has prompted Ronnarong to seek a DSI investigation into the abuse reports while urging officials to transparently address the issue to the public. Separately, investigations into Joe Ferrari's death maintain it was a suicide. The Royal Thai Police found only his DNA on the towel used, suggesting no foul play involved, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

Tourist Brawl in Jomtien Sparks Growing Concerns Over Pattaya Image Yesterday morning, a violent clash between foreign tourists erupted in Jomtien, near Dong Tan Beach. This marks yet another incident contributing to rising concerns about unruly behaviour tarnishing Pattaya’s reputation as a tourist destination. The brawl involved two groups of foreigners and quickly escalated before local officials intervened to break up the fight. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354512-tourist-brawl-in-jomtien-sparks-growing-concerns-over-pattaya-image/

Yesterday morning, a violent clash between foreign tourists erupted in Jomtien, near Dong Tan Beach. This marks yet another incident contributing to rising concerns about unruly behaviour tarnishing Pattaya’s reputation as a tourist destination. The brawl involved two groups of foreigners and quickly escalated before local officials intervened to break up the fight. The police detained the two primary individuals involved, taking them to Dong Tan Police Station for further legal action. Eye-witnesses reported seeing a man and a woman attempting to flee the scene on an Xmax scooter, successfully evading capture by local officers. Residents are growing increasingly frustrated with the frequent altercations amongst visitors. "Every day, Pattaya sees tourists fighting,” one bystander remarked, questioning why travellers would come to fight instead of enjoying their visit. The uptick in such incidents has sparked deep concern among locals, who fear that Pattaya’s vibrant tourist image is being overshadowed by the violence. Social media is abuzz with discussions, with many locals voicing their frustrations about the city’s chaotic narrative, which they believe threatens Pattaya's status as a premier holiday destination. Authorities are reassuring the public of enhanced safety measures to prevent further disturbances. Nonetheless, as these incidents continue to capture headlines, there is growing apprehension that a disruptive minority could negatively impact the city’s allure. Officials urge tourists to respect local laws and maintain civility, focusing on ensuring Pattaya remains a welcoming and enjoyable place for all visitors, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

Chon Buri Dormitory Attack: Man Assaults Ex-Wife and Partner Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In the early hours of today, March 13, a violent altercation unfolded at a dormitory in Mueang district, Chon Buri province, when a 29-year-old man named Panupong attacked his 25-year-old ex-wife, Wassana, and her new partner. The new partner escaped by breaking through a bathroom window and is currently missing. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354511-chon-buri-dormitory-attack-man-assaults-ex-wife-and-partner/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In the early hours of today, March 13, a violent altercation unfolded at a dormitory in Mueang district, Chon Buri province, when a 29-year-old man named Panupong attacked his 25-year-old ex-wife, Wassana, and her new partner. The new partner escaped by breaking through a bathroom window and is currently missing. Police in Saen Suk district responded to the disturbance to find Panupong with glass cuts on his arms and hands. Emergency services transported him to a private hospital, while Wassana, who suffered bruising to her body and face, received medical treatment at Burapha University Hospital. The scene was marked by bloodstains spread throughout the room and bathroom. Under the influence of alcohol, Panupong claimed he remained Wassana's partner and expressed that he acted out of frustration, having reached his limit. He admitted to the attack, after which he sustained injuries from shattered glass. Wassana explained that the confrontation followed Panupong's arrival at the dormitory, where he attacked her and her 29-year-old partner, who fled, sustaining cuts in the process. She recounted feeling threatened by Panupong, who mentioned not wanting to hurt her but asserting he'd lost his composure. While Panupong was transported to a private hospital due to injuries inflicted by broken glass, authorities continue to investigate the incident to piece together the chain of events and assess further legal actions, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

Manhunt Underway After Man Kills Estranged Wife, Flees with Stepdaughter Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A harrowing incident unfolded in Samut Prakan province, where a 43-year-old man, Chaiwat, fatally shot his estranged 34-year-old wife, Rattiya, in front of their children and mother-in-law. The tragedy, which occurred on March 13 at 1am, has prompted a police manhunt after Chaiwat fled the scene with his 15-year-old stepdaughter. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354510-manhunt-underway-after-man-kills-estranged-wife-flees-with-stepdaughter/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod A harrowing incident unfolded in Samut Prakan province, where a 43-year-old man, Chaiwat, fatally shot his estranged 34-year-old wife, Rattiya, in front of their children and mother-in-law. The tragedy, which occurred on March 13 at 1am, has prompted a police manhunt after Chaiwat fled the scene with his 15-year-old stepdaughter. Phra Samut Chedi Police were alerted to the shooting in Bang Pla Kot subdistrict, where they found Rattiya's lifeless body with gunshot wounds to her head and chest. The suspect had threatened his stepdaughter before escaping, initially on a motorcycle and later in a black Mitsubishi pickup truck. Investigations reveal that the couple had been separated for three years, with Chaiwat previously taking their 10-year-old son and stepdaughter to Sisaket province, while Rattiya stayed in Samut Prakan. The suspect returned with the children under the guise of discussing family matters, which tragically escalated. Rattiya’s mother, Apa, recounted how her daughter showed Chaiwat their marriage certificate, prompting him to shoot her without response. Apa tried to protect her granddaughter from being harmed as Chaiwat abducted her. It has emerged that the stepdaughter had accused Chaiwat of sexual abuse, a concern shared by Rattiya with her sister, Rattikan. Rattiya had advised her daughter to collect evidence of the abuse, but communication had since lapsed. Rattikan believes these allegations may have driven Chaiwat to return and commit the violent act. Police are diligently investigating, reviewing CCTV footage, and interviewing witnesses to locate Chaiwat. Rattiya’s body has been sent for an autopsy to aid in the ongoing investigation. The authorities are racing against time to ensure the safety of the abducted stepdaughter and bring the suspect to justice, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

Epileptic Monk Attacks Nurse in Lop Buri; Hospital to Pursue Legal Action Photo via Facebook/ โอมมณีเก็จทิพยนฤมาศ แห่งสระโกสินารายณ์สัสเอ๊ยย A distressing incident occurred at King Narai Hospital in Lop Buri province, where a 49-year-old Thai monk, known to have epilepsy and a history of mental illness, attacked an assistant nurse. The incident, which happened at 9.25am on Tuesday, March 11, was captured on video and quickly went viral across Thai social media platforms. The footage showed Thai men pinning the monk, identified as Thanitthorn, to the ground after he assaulted the nurse. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354509-epileptic-monk-attacks-nurse-in-lop-buri-hospital-to-pursue-legal-action/

Photo via Facebook/ โอมมณีเก็จทิพยนฤมาศ แห่งสระโกสินารายณ์สัสเอ๊ยย A distressing incident occurred at King Narai Hospital in Lop Buri province, where a 49-year-old Thai monk, known to have epilepsy and a history of mental illness, attacked an assistant nurse. The incident, which happened at 9.25am on Tuesday, March 11, was captured on video and quickly went viral across Thai social media platforms. The footage showed Thai men pinning the monk, identified as Thanitthorn, to the ground after he assaulted the nurse. Initially calm while awaiting treatment for his epilepsy, Thanitthorn became visibly distressed and began pacing before unexpectedly attacking the nurse from behind, striking her in the neck and back. Despite the lack of visible injuries, the nurse was traumatised, receiving two days off for physical and mental evaluation. The hospital swiftly issued a statement describing the event and confirmed its commitment to legal action against the monk while also planning to provide compensation to the victim. This effort aims to restore morale among her and the medical staff following the unsettling attack. Thanitthorn has struggled with epilepsy since childhood, with his condition leading to depression. His father revealed to Channel 3 that treatment had been ongoing but not significantly effective. The National Office of Buddhism has since advised that he leave the monkhood to receive the necessary medical care for his epilepsy and mental health. As for the legal proceedings, the hospital intends to address the matter thoroughly, though further details on the case progression have yet to be disclosed, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

Prayer Hall Collapse at Wat Amornyatsamakom Causes 8 Million Baht Damage Picture courtesy of 77kaoded A two-storey prayer hall at Wat Amornyatsamakom in Ratchaburi province unexpectedly collapsed yesterday, causing extensive damage estimated at approximately 8 million baht. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident, which took place around 5.20pm. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354508-prayer-hall-collapse-at-wat-amornyatsamakom-causes-8-million-baht-damage/

Picture courtesy of 77kaoded A two-storey prayer hall at Wat Amornyatsamakom in Ratchaburi province unexpectedly collapsed yesterday, causing extensive damage estimated at approximately 8 million baht. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident, which took place around 5.20pm. Suwitchat Nawamphet, the district chief, promptly visited the temple in Mueang district's Thana subdistrict following the collapse. He was joined by Phra Khru Amorn Wisutthaporn, the abbot and district chief monk, along with other monks and local residents, who were busy clearing debris and salvaging items such as alms bowls and kitchen equipment from the wreckage. Phra Khru Amorn Wisutthaporn noted that the prayer hall, serving both daily meals and prayer sessions, had shown signs of structural weakness two days earlier. Plans were underway to have a contractor demolish the building, but the collapse occurred unexpectedly before the scheduled work on March 13. The prayer hall, constructed in 1970, had suffered significant termite damage, which contributed to its sudden deterioration. As a safety measure, monks have been advised to avoid the vicinity and instead walk beside the hall. Efforts are now focused on dismantling the unstable structure to prevent additional damage, especially with the risk of rain. While plans for rebuilding the hall remain uncertain, immediate priorities include ensuring safety and clearing the affected area, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-13

Paranoia-Induced Attack: Student Stabbed in Marijuana-Fuelled Incident Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a shocking incident earlier today, March 13, at a luxury condominium in Pathum Thani, a 19-year-old marketing student reportedly attacked a fellow student during a bout of marijuana-induced paranoia. The altercation left the victim, identified as Korn, with multiple stab wounds to his face, chest, and right arm. Emergency services quickly transported Korn to Thammasat University Hospital for urgent care. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354507-paranoia-induced-attack-student-stabbed-in-marijuana-fuelled-incident/