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File photo for reference only In a perplexing incident on the picturesque island of Koh Larn, Thai authorities are unraveling the mysterious death of a tourist, after his body was discovered yesterday in a forested area behind Khao Phra Yai. The deceased, identified as 48-year-old Kazuhiro from Japan, was found hanged near a viewpoint nestled between Ta Waen Beach and Samae Beach. The chilling discovery featured a collection of odd items found within a ten-metre radius of Kazuhiro's body. These included a long-sleeved black hoodie, a camouflage hiking hat, a backpack, and more intriguingly, a photograph of an elderly woman alongside strips of Viagra, cigarette packet, and Bluetooth earphones. His passport was also found nearby, offering the first clue to his identity. The case came to light when a tourist stumbled upon the scene, alerting local security who cordoned off the area. Pattaya City Police, led by Lieutenant Anan Mahakit Asawakun, have since begun piecing together this mystery. Initial investigations are underway, using photographs and CCTV footage to gain further insights. As Kazuhiro's body undergoes autopsy at Phatthamakun Hospital, police are endeavouring to contact his family. This tragic event adds to a series of mysterious deaths in the area, highlighting the need for meticulous investigation to uncover the truth behind such occurrences, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-07

Thailand's Submarine Deal in Limbo Amid Political Turmoil File photo for reference only Thailand’s long-standing submarine deal with China confronts further delays, as the Pheu Thai-led government fails to solidify a defence decision amidst an impending censure debate. This ongoing saga began in 2017, when a 13.9-billion-baht agreement was struck for the construction of an S26T Yuan-class submarine by China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co., Ltd (CSOC). Due to a German engine embargo linked to historical events, the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) considered switching to a Chinese-made engine, coupled with a compensation package. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353882-thailands-submarine-deal-in-limbo-amid-political-turmoil/

File photo for reference only Thailand’s long-standing submarine deal with China confronts further delays, as the Pheu Thai-led government fails to solidify a defence decision amidst an impending censure debate. This ongoing saga began in 2017, when a 13.9-billion-baht agreement was struck for the construction of an S26T Yuan-class submarine by China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co., Ltd (CSOC). Due to a German engine embargo linked to historical events, the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) considered switching to a Chinese-made engine, coupled with a compensation package. Despite the proposal approved by the Defence Ministry, headed by Phumtham Wechayachai, it awaits cabinet approval, being tossed between multiple agencies instead. The navy has hinted at dissatisfaction with the current terms, notably the low compensation value, which critics deem insufficient. The political backdrop thickens, with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s focus shifting towards an upcoming censure debate. Meanwhile, the RTN’s broader naval ambitions hang in balance, including a prospective 35-billion-baht frigate project aiming to invigorate Thailand's shipbuilding industry. These new warships promise cutting-edge features, yet financial constraints coupled with the submarine deal may limit the venture to only one frigate, posing potential stagnation risks to the industry. The outcome of these grand maritime pursuits, amid political flux, remains uncertain and is crucial to Thailand's strategic defence future, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-07

Join the Fun: Vote for the Baby Giraffe's Name at Chiang Mai Zoo Pictures courtesy of Amarin TV Chiang Mai Zoo is abuzz with excitement following the birth of a charming baby giraffe, and now they're calling on the public to help name the little one via an online vote. Born on February 7, the female giraffe is the delightful offspring of Ton Khun, a male from Khon Kaen Zoo, and Dao, a female from Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353787-join-the-fun-vote-for-the-baby-giraffes-name-at-chiang-mai-zoo/

Pictures courtesy of Amarin TV Chiang Mai Zoo is abuzz with excitement following the birth of a charming baby giraffe, and now they're calling on the public to help name the little one via an online vote. Born on February 7, the female giraffe is the delightful offspring of Ton Khun, a male from Khon Kaen Zoo, and Dao, a female from Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo. Zoo chief Wuttichai Muangman reports the calf is flourishing under the care of her parents. She's healthy, gaining weight, and already displaying playful behaviour, exploring her surroundings—a positive sign of development. The baby giraffe can be admired daily in the African Animal Zone, where she's quickly becoming a favourite among visitors with her endearing antics. To mark her joyful arrival, the zoo has launched a public voting campaign to pick from six adorable name options: Luna – Meaning “moon,” echoing her mother’s name Dao, which means “star.” Sarah – Signifying “princess,” denoting elegance and nobility. Bella – Meaning “beautiful,” apt for such a sweet young giraffe. Ton Duen – Inspired by her birth at the start of the month. Ton Rak – Linked to her father Ton Khun, meaning “love.” Rak Khun – Reflecting her February birth, the month of love. Voting runs from March 6-25, open to the public through the Chiang Mai Zoo Facebook page or via a QR code. Voters stand a chance to win an exclusive one-year pass to both Chiang Mai Zoo and Chiang Mai Zoo Aquarium. The much-anticipated name announcement will be shared on March 31, delighting everyone who participated in naming this precious new member of the zoo family, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-06

Chinese Woman in Distress Rescued Near Jomtien Woods by Pattaya Officials Pictures courtesy of Pattaya Mail Pattaya City officials promptly rescued a Chinese woman, suffering from mental health issues, found in distress near a wooded area in Jomtien. The incident unfolded when a local resident noticed the woman, appearing lost and disoriented near a condominium complex, and immediately alerted the police. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353785-chinese-woman-in-distress-rescued-near-jomtien-woods-by-pattaya-officials/

Pictures courtesy of Pattaya Mail Pattaya City officials promptly rescued a Chinese woman, suffering from mental health issues, found in distress near a wooded area in Jomtien. The incident unfolded when a local resident noticed the woman, appearing lost and disoriented near a condominium complex, and immediately alerted the police. Responding swiftly, authorities tracked her down in the forest, ensuring her safety and reuniting her with her family. Upon arrival, rescue teams found the woman in a fragile state, visibly shaken and confused. They approached her carefully, providing reassurance before escorting her to safety. After confirming she was physically unharmed, the woman was placed under her family’s care. Although the circumstances of her arrival in the wooded area remain undisclosed, police emphasized the critical role of public vigilance in aiding those with mental health challenges. "This swift response highlights Pattaya’s commitment to the safety and well-being of all, including foreign visitors," an official stated, urging public cooperation in reporting distress situations promptly. In another unusual case, Bangkok’s Bueng Kum District Police are investigating a bizarre account by a 52-year-old Thai woman. She claims repeated sexual assaults over two years by a gang of invisible men, said to possess supernatural abilities of hypnosis and torment. The reactive blend of alleged paranormal events and mental health issues has attracted the attention of both law enforcement and mental health professionals. Authorities led by experts from the Public Health Ministry are assessing the situation at her home in Soi Nawamin 42. Their focus is twofold: determining the validity of the woman’s claims while ensuring her safety and mental well-being, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-06

Four Chinese Nationals Arrested in Phuket for Illegal Work at Construction Site Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News Thalang police have arrested four Chinese nationals caught working illegally at a construction site in Thepkrasattri, Phuket, following a dramatic raid. Acting on a tip-off received earlier, officers stormed a warehouse in Village 9 on March 5, discovering construction sounds emanating from within. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353784-four-chinese-nationals-arrested-in-phuket-for-illegal-work-at-construction-site/

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News Thalang police have arrested four Chinese nationals caught working illegally at a construction site in Thepkrasattri, Phuket, following a dramatic raid. Acting on a tip-off received earlier, officers stormed a warehouse in Village 9 on March 5, discovering construction sounds emanating from within. Inside, the authorities found four Chinese men engaged in work without the necessary permits: Minggui Yang, 33, Yongdong Deng, 45, Zuo Tang, 44, and Xiaohui Xiang, 37, who also went by Xiaohui Zhang. The men were reportedly living on-site while working for an interior design business under construction. Police swiftly detained the suspects, transferring them to Thalang Police Station for questioning. Tang faced charges for illegally working as a construction supervisor, with the other three charged as illegal construction labourers. Additionally, all four faced charges for illegal entry and overstaying in Thailand. Despite the serious legal implications, the suspects denied the allegations and withheld information about their employer. Authorities are now focusing on identifying those responsible for hiring them. The property’s lessee, Peerakarn Wechakul, 51, has been summoned for questioning, as police reports indicate he leased the warehouse for an interior design venture. The investigation is set to expand, aiming to uncover potential violations by the employer. Officials emphasize their dedication to eradicating illegal foreign labour and ensuring businesses comply with immigration and labour laws. This case underscores the persistent issue of undocumented workers in Thailand, with police determined to hold employers accountable for exploiting illegal labour, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-06

Thai Optimus Prime Creator Clashes with Viral Coffee Shop Hypnotized - video Photo via MGR Online and KhaoSod In a peculiar twist near Bangkok's Chinatown, Aree "Seng" Manatsapakorn, known for crafting a viral Optimus Prime figure, found himself embroiled in a dispute with a popular coffee shop and cocktail bar, Hypnotized. This altercation stemmed from a refusal to support his donation campaign aimed at constructing two new figures. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353783-thai-optimus-prime-creator-clashes-with-viral-coffee-shop-hypnotized-video/

Photo via MGR Online and KhaoSod In a peculiar twist near Bangkok's Chinatown, Aree "Seng" Manatsapakorn, known for crafting a viral Optimus Prime figure, found himself embroiled in a dispute with a popular coffee shop and cocktail bar, Hypnotized. This altercation stemmed from a refusal to support his donation campaign aimed at constructing two new figures. The conflict originated when Hypnotized boosted the figure's fame through videos showcasing offerings like cocktails and engine oil, blending traditional Thai performances with the awe-inspiring creation. These viral clips motivated other establishments nearby to follow suit, fueling a new cultural phenomenon. Some locals began attributing magical powers to the figure, prompting the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration to intervene due to traffic and safety concerns. Seng, an influential player in Thailand's engine parts industry, had modestly expressed willingness to sell the figures, including Optimus Prime. However, he sought donations for further artistic endeavors. The crux of the issue arose when Seng approached Hypnotized, seeking support for two new figures. The lack of a prompt answer led to Seng’s public outburst at the store, as captured in a widely shared video on social media. In response, the store manager noted Seng's repeated visits clashed with the owner's absence, delaying any decision on donations. This unresolved status triggered Seng's ire, as he believed their viral success owed much to his creation. Seng defended his actions, asserting he didn’t coerce donations and highlighting that most area businesses responded without issue. He cited frustration with Hypnotized’s failure to acknowledge his request, despite their success linked to his work. After the dust settled, Seng mentioned Hypnotized’s owner had reached out to offer an apology, suggesting a possible resolution to this high-stakes mix of culture, creativity, and commerce, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-06

Luxury Mini Cooper Destroyed in Fiery Blaze Near Bangkok's Thonglor Pictures courtesy of Matichon This morning, a luxury Mini Cooper burst into flames in a dramatic incident near Soi Thonglor 20, Bangkok, reducing the car to a charred shell. The fire erupted outside Kasikorn Bank's Sukhumvit 55 branch, catching unsuspecting bystanders by surprise. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353782-luxury-mini-cooper-destroyed-in-fiery-blaze-near-bangkoks-thonglor/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon This morning, a luxury Mini Cooper burst into flames in a dramatic incident near Soi Thonglor 20, Bangkok, reducing the car to a charred shell. The fire erupted outside Kasikorn Bank's Sukhumvit 55 branch, catching unsuspecting bystanders by surprise. At 10.40am, Police Lieutenant Colonel Sitthichai Jumprom of Thonglor Police Station responded to the alarming scene. Witnesses reported seeing thick smoke pouring from the parked car before it was swallowed by flames. Efforts by bank employees using handheld extinguishers proved futile against the roaring blaze. The Watthana District Office staff arrived with a water truck, spending 15 minutes battling the fire before finally subduing it. Unfortunately, the Mini Cooper was beyond saving by then. The car’s owner recounted his shock, explaining how he had driven from Sukhumvit 23 to a barbershop nearby. Unaware of the unfolding disaster, he was mid-haircut when alerted to the fire. "I heard someone shouting about a car on fire. When I rushed out, I found my Mini Cooper enveloped in flames. It was devastating." The owner noted the car had been mostly idle in recent months, merely taken out for a short trip that day. Authorities from Thonglor Police Station are now investigating the cause of the sudden fire. They are exploring whether mechanical failure or another factor might have sparked the incident. Police are seeking technical evaluations to aid in the investigation. This fiery episode has sparked concerns about vehicle safety, prompting officials to urge routine maintenance checks to avert similar incidents. The investigation continues, focusing on both the fire's origins and any consequential damage to public property, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-06

Taiwanese Man Scammed by Thai Lover Loses Nearly 10 Million Baht Pictures courtesy of Thairath In a heart-wrenching tale of deceit, a Taiwanese man, Chia Wei Te, was defrauded of nearly 10 million baht by a Thai woman he believed he would marry. Driven to seek justice, he travelled to Thailand, only to find that the woman had vanished. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353781-taiwanese-man-scammed-by-thai-lover-loses-nearly-10-million-baht/

Pictures courtesy of Thairath In a heart-wrenching tale of deceit, a Taiwanese man, Chia Wei Te, was defrauded of nearly 10 million baht by a Thai woman he believed he would marry. Driven to seek justice, he travelled to Thailand, only to find that the woman had vanished. Chia, 34, filed a complaint at Pha Khao Police Station in Loei province, detailing his relationship with 25-year-old Kwanthida, who lured him into a fraudulent romance while working as a service worker in Taiwan. She gained his trust over several years, promising a shared future. Kwanthida initially borrowed small sums, claiming she needed to renovate her Pha Khao district home for sale. To support the supposed joint future, Chia sold his Taiwan house, sending her money totalling 9.3 million baht in 52 transactions. Despite her reassurances, Kwanthida grew evasive, and a false photo of money in a bank safe coaxed further funds from Chia, leading him to realise her deceit too late. Overwhelmed, Chia even contemplated suicide before relatives intervened. When tracked down by reporters, Kwanthida admitted to the scam from abroad, spending all the funds on personal indulgences. The promised future was simply a facade built on deception, including the renovation story. Her family denied knowledge of her actions, claiming innocence concerning her financial activities. Police are investigating the intricate scam. Meanwhile, Chia remains in Thailand, holding onto slim hopes of clawing back some part of his lost wealth, desperately seeking closure and justice for the betrayal he endured, reported The Thaiger. 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. -- 2025-03-06

Man Allegedly Sets Home Ablaze with Family Inside Amid Drug Influence Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a distressing turn of events in Udon Thani province, a man allegedly set his house on fire while under the influence of drugs, with his wife and grandchild inside. The incident unfolded on the night of March 5th in Ban Don Sanam, Nong Han district. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353778-man-allegedly-sets-home-ablaze-with-family-inside-amid-drug-influence/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod In a distressing turn of events in Udon Thani province, a man allegedly set his house on fire while under the influence of drugs, with his wife and grandchild inside. The incident unfolded on the night of March 5th in Ban Don Sanam, Nong Han district. Deputy Inspector Piyanat Akkaraphumphol and emergency services responded promptly. When they arrived, the two-storey concrete and wood house was engulfed in flames. Firefighters took an hour to extinguish the blaze, but the home was entirely destroyed. The suspect, Panya Somsri, 54, fled the scene shortly after. His wife, Sunan Chanthapram, also 54, identified him as the perpetrator. She recounted his troubling behaviour of late, linked to constant drug and alcohol use, and revealed that he had previously threatened to set the house on fire. The house, owned by Sunan's sister, became a refuge when Sunan and her family moved in. However, Panya's addiction issues led to violent outbursts and frequent family disputes, as reported by Sunan and her sister, Warunee Chanthapram. On the day of the incident, Sunan's quick decision to stay with her sister saved her and the visiting grandchild since they usually stayed in the room where the fire began. Sunan expressed her disbelief at Panya's act, emphasizing the recent physical abuse she had suffered. Local investigators have sought forensic examination of the scene and are actively working to locate Panya for legal proceedings. The family remains shaken by the ordeal that could have ended in greater tragedy, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-06

Termite Infestation Causes Roof Collapse in Rayong Family's Home Photo via Facebook/ เพจรู้เรื่องเมืองระยอง A family in Rayong's Mueang district narrowly escaped injury this week when their home's roof collapsed due to severe termite damage. The incident occurred on Tuesday at a house in Soi Koh Kloy 5. The family of three escaped unharmed, but the collapse left the house's central region with significant structural damage. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353777-termite-infestation-causes-roof-collapse-in-rayong-familys-home/

Photo via Facebook/ เพจรู้เรื่องเมืองระยอง A family in Rayong's Mueang district narrowly escaped injury this week when their home's roof collapsed due to severe termite damage. The incident occurred on Tuesday at a house in Soi Koh Kloy 5. The family of three escaped unharmed, but the collapse left the house's central region with significant structural damage. Chutimaporn, the homeowner, recounted the terrifying experience, revealing that she and her child were in the hallway, while her husband was in the bedroom. Fortunately, they both evacuated before the structure gave way. Her husband, initially trapped, escaped through a window. Termites had been a known issue for the family, who've contacted technicians to address the problem, albeit unsuccessfully before the mishap. The delay in intervention underscored the need for urgent pest control measures. The affected family plans to stay with relatives while the house undergoes significant repairs, involving a complete overhaul of the damaged roof to preempt any recurrence. She advises homeowners to be vigilant against termites, warning them against underestimating the pests' destructive potential, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-06

Forged Passport Scandal in Phuket: Afghan, Kazakh Nationals Arrested Six Afghan and Kazakh nationals faced legal repercussions after being caught with forged passports in Phuket, as the Phuket Provincial Court sentenced them on March 5. The verdict, delivered in six criminal cases, revealed the extent of their attempts to deceive Thai immigration authorities. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353776-forged-passport-scandal-in-phuket-afghan-kazakh-nationals-arrested/

Six Afghan and Kazakh nationals faced legal repercussions after being caught with forged passports in Phuket, as the Phuket Provincial Court sentenced them on March 5. The verdict, delivered in six criminal cases, revealed the extent of their attempts to deceive Thai immigration authorities. Under prosecution by the Phuket Provincial Public Prosecutor, the group was charged with passport forgery and providing false information to officials. The court initially sentenced individuals in cases No. Tor 144/2568 and Tor 146/2568 to four years in prison, which were then halved to two years, considering their confessions and other mitigating factors. Similarly, sentences for cases No. Tor 145/2568 and Tor 147/2568 to Tor 149/2568 were reduced from two years to one year, with no suspension. The arrests followed an incident in December when five Afghan nationals attempted to enter Thailand using fake Kazakh passports at Phuket International Airport. These documents were cleverly designed to mimic those from Kazakhstan, but immigration officers identified the forgeries, leading to detentions and charges at Sakhu Police Station. Further investigations led to the arrest of Abdul Bashir Kawoskgar, 24, and Mustafa Ahadi, 20, at the airport's international departures hall on December 9, as they tried to board a flight to Milan, Italy. Online photos from immigration officials showed five seized Kazakh passports, though discrepancies arose as only four arrests were formally reported, with no explanation provided. Reaffirming its dedication to justice, the Phuket Provincial Court highlighted the necessity of strict immigration law enforcement, crucial for preserving Phuket's reputation and the integrity of Thailand's legal system. The swift action demonstrates the court's commitment to maintaining legal order for both tourists and residents, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-06

Thaksin’s Request to Leave Thailand for Indonesia Blocked by Court Photo courtesy of Thairath Online Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra encountered a significant legal hurdle today, as the Criminal Court denied his request to travel to Indonesia for the upcoming ASEAN meeting. Thaksin remains embroiled in legal challenges under Thailand's lèse majesté law and the Computer Crime Act, and the court ruled there was insufficient reason to permit his departure from the country while proceedings are ongoing. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353775-thaksin’s-request-to-leave-thailand-for-indonesia-blocked-by-court/

Photo courtesy of Thairath Online Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra encountered a significant legal hurdle today, as the Criminal Court denied his request to travel to Indonesia for the upcoming ASEAN meeting. Thaksin remains embroiled in legal challenges under Thailand's lèse majesté law and the Computer Crime Act, and the court ruled there was insufficient reason to permit his departure from the country while proceedings are ongoing. Arriving at the Criminal Court in Bangkok with his lawyer, Winyat Chatmontri, the ex-PM sought clearance for international travel, citing an invitation from the Indonesian president. The court reviewed his application, beginning at 10am on March 6, but ultimately decided against it, citing the lack of convincing justification amid his legal issues. At 12.02pm, Thaksin departed the court in silence, refraining from commenting to the media. His request was officially dismissed later in the afternoon, affirming that he would not be allowed to leave Thailand for the ASEAN meeting set for March 7. Since returning to Thailand last year after 15 years in exile, Thaksin's legal troubles have been a prominent issue in Thai political discourse. His recent actions, including the bid to exit the country, have spurred speculations regarding his legal tactics and potential political motives. For now, with the court’s decisive ruling, Thaksin remains in Thailand under close government scrutiny. His future moves remain uncertain, and his absence at the ASEAN meeting underscores the ongoing complexities surrounding his legal and political situation, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-06

Phuket's Mega Condo Projects Face Intense Scrutiny Over Legal, Environmental Issues Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News A major investigation is currently underway in Phuket, focusing on two controversial condominium developments in Cherng Talay. The projects have attracted significant attention due to potential legal and environmental violations, prompting an in-depth review by the Ministry of Interior. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353773-phukets-mega-condo-projects-face-intense-scrutiny-over-legal-environmental-issues/

Pictures courtesy of The Phuket News A major investigation is currently underway in Phuket, focusing on two controversial condominium developments in Cherng Talay. The projects have attracted significant attention due to potential legal and environmental violations, prompting an in-depth review by the Ministry of Interior. Leading the investigation is Supoj Rotruang Na Nongkhai, Chief Inspector of the Ministry of Interior and former Phuket Vice Governor. He convened a session at the Thalang District Office on March 4, involving key officials like the current Phuket Vice Governor Adul Chuthong and Thalang District Chief Siwat Rawangkul. The projects in question, Siamese Bangtao 1 and 2, developed by the Erawana Group along Don Jom Tao Road, are being scrutinised for possibly surpassing the size limit for "extra-large buildings." This classification, meant for structures with a floor area of 10,000 square metres or more, demands compliance with the Building Control Act and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) regulations. Natthakrit Phonphet, Deputy Director of the Phuket Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, confirmed that the developer's representatives have been asked to clarify the situation. The legal requirements hinge on classifying these projects as "extra-large," which would involve more stringent regulations. Additionally, Natthakrit highlighted the necessity for transparent public hearings in large-scale developments like these, ensuring community involvement and compliance. The investigations also extend to a case concerning revoked land ownership rights involving Noppharot Piriyathawittham and Prawit Sinsaophak. The land in question is registered under specific NorSor 3 Kor documents, with the matter currently under review by the Thalang Land Office. Chief Inspector Supoj stressed the importance of transparent procedures and adherence to legal standards, aiming to safeguard public interests amidst these developments. This unfolding investigation into Phuket's high-stakes real estate ventures holds significant interest for residents and investors alike, as the outcomes could have far-reaching implications for the island's development landscape, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-06