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Roadside Bomb Targets Volunteers in Narathiwat, No Casualties Reported Pictures courtesy of Matichon A roadside bomb detonated in Narathiwat yesterday in what appears to be a targeted attack on territorial defence volunteers. The blast, which occurred at 1.59 pm on the Sungai Kolok-Sungai Padi road, caused substantial damage but, fortunately, resulted in no casualties. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354414-roadside-bomb-targets-volunteers-in-narathiwat-no-casualties-reported/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon A roadside bomb detonated in Narathiwat yesterday in what appears to be a targeted attack on territorial defence volunteers. The blast, which occurred at 1.59 pm on the Sungai Kolok-Sungai Padi road, caused substantial damage but, fortunately, resulted in no casualties. The explosion took place at a U-turn in Ban Bango Humo, in the Sungai Padi district, and prompted a rapid military response. Police Colonel Mataha Muna, head of Sungai Padi Police Station, confirmed the incident. The area was quickly sealed off by armoured vehicles, though investigation efforts were hampered by heavy rainfall. At the scene, police found a large crater, approximately 2 metres wide and 1 metre deep, indicative of the explosion's considerable force. Due to the adverse weather, the full investigation by the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit from Border Patrol Police 447 was delayed until conditions improved. Preliminary findings suggest that the bomb was an improvised explosive device (IED), encased in a 20-kilogramme gas cylinder and strategically buried beneath a culvert. It was likely intended to target an armoured vehicle carrying volunteers from the Sungai Padi District Office, which narrowly escaped damage after just completing battery maintenance in Sungai Kolok. An official stated, “The device exploded just 20 metres behind the vehicle. Had the timing been different, this could have been a deadly attack.” Police suspect insurgent involvement, potentially connected to a previous car bomb attack on the Sungai Kolok District office on March 8. Intelligence suggests that the Ban Bango Humo area harbours an active insurgent network. In response, military units and police are ramping up efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible, while residents are being cautioned about possible further incidents, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-12

Man Caught with Yaba Tablets After Accidental Drop in Front of Officials Photo via KhaoSod In a twist of absent-mindedness, a 58-year-old Thai man known as A inadvertently exposed his stash of Yaba, or methamphetamine, to government officials in Nan on March 11. The incident unfolded as a part of a drug crackdown in Mueang Nan District. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354413-man-caught-with-yaba-tablets-after-accidental-drop-in-front-of-officials/

Photo via KhaoSod In a twist of absent-mindedness, a 58-year-old Thai man known as A inadvertently exposed his stash of Yaba, or methamphetamine, to government officials in Nan on March 11. The incident unfolded as a part of a drug crackdown in Mueang Nan District. Teeraporn Mankaew, Deputy District Chief, shared that A was under suspicion due to ongoing investigations into local drug use. Officials flagged down A while he was driving for questioning. Upon testing, A admitted to using Yaba, with test results confirming his drug use. Initially, a thorough search yielded no tablets, earmarking him for rehabilitation rather than jail. However, A's lack of identification necessitated a return to his home, where, upon producing his ID card, he inadvertently dropped a bag containing six Yaba tablets. This discovery meant that A could no longer qualify for rehabilitation under Thai law, as he exceeded the five-tablet threshold. Faced with possession of more than the allowed amount, A now confronts a potential two-year imprisonment and a fine of up to 40,000 baht. A admitted to taking two Yaba tablets daily and claimed he had misplaced his remaining stash until accidentally revealing it during the district office visit. Coincidentally, on the same day as A's mishap, another suspect was apprehended outside his residence. This individual had previously evaded arrest despite being caught with 80 Yaba tablets. This case highlights the complexities of drug law enforcement and the fine line between rehabilitation and legal repercussions based on the amount of drugs found in possession, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-12

Nurse Praised for Assisting Fainting Passenger on Bangkok BTS Train - video Picture courtesy of @sittiaew TikTok A nurse in Bangkok received widespread praise for her quick-thinking and compassionate response to a passenger who fainted on the BTS train. On March 11, a TikTok video by user @sittiaew captured the nurse's praiseworthy actions, showcasing her unwavering dedication even while en route to work. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354412-nurse-praised-for-assisting-fainting-passenger-on-bangkok-bts-train-video/

Picture courtesy of @sittiaew TikTok A nurse in Bangkok received widespread praise for her quick-thinking and compassionate response to a passenger who fainted on the BTS train. On March 11, a TikTok video by user @sittiaew captured the nurse's praiseworthy actions, showcasing her unwavering dedication even while en route to work. The video shows the nurse, alongside a BTS security officer, aiding the unwell passenger by moving them to a more open area to administer initial first aid. Her dedication to her profession was clear as she set aside her own schedule to assist someone in need. Upon the video's release, it garnered many positive comments with viewers commending the nurse and sharing their own experiences of fainting on the BTS. Many praised the BTS staff for their consistent kindness and prompt assistance in handling such emergencies. The original poster expressed gratitude for the collective efforts, noting, "Thank you everyone for sharing your experiences. I also want to commend the woman in black who helped support the patient alongside the nurse. Unfortunately, she wasn’t captured in the video. It was a very crowded day, and everyone cooperated excellently." This incident highlights the spirit of community and selflessness, reflecting positively on both the medical profession and those working to ensure commuter safety in Bangkok, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-12

Pattaya Police Crack Down on Illegal Foreign Workers at Villa Sites Tourist Police in Pattaya have arrested 25 foreign nationals working illegally at construction sites for pool villas, exposing a network of unauthorized foreign-run property developments. The operation, spearheaded by Police Colonel Man Rotthong, targeted Chinese investors linked to villa rentals operating as illicit hotels. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354410-pattaya-police-crack-down-on-illegal-foreign-workers-at-villa-sites/

Tourist Police in Pattaya have arrested 25 foreign nationals working illegally at construction sites for pool villas, exposing a network of unauthorized foreign-run property developments. The operation, spearheaded by Police Colonel Man Rotthong, targeted Chinese investors linked to villa rentals operating as illicit hotels. Acting on a tip-off, officers raided four construction sites in the Huay Yai subdistrict on March 11. They found around 20 buildings under development with foreign supervisors, mainly Chinese nationals, overseeing Myanmar labourers. Of those detained, nine were Chinese, and 16 were Myanmar workers, none possessing valid work permits. Charged with breaching employment and immigration laws, this crackdown is part of a broader initiative to curtail foreign criminal activities in Thailand. Police have observed a rise in unpermitted foreign investments across industries, notably in real estate, driving illegal operations. The arrests, led by Police Lieutenant General Saksira Phueak-am, align with a national objective to curb illegal immigration, foreign-operated businesses, and transnational crime. With Chon Buri province, including Pattaya, experiencing a real estate surge ranked second after Bangkok, the crackdown comes as part of efforts to curtail unlawful property developments capitalizing on the area’s growth. Pattaya, situated within the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), has a thriving housing market valued at about 4.72 billion US dollars. As the city becomes a hub for illegal construction ventures, officials anticipate more raids to enforce strict compliance with Thailand's investment laws, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-12

Krabi Restaurant Outraged After Tourist Dines and Dashes Photo courtesy of 3Plus News A foreign tourist has stirred anger in Krabi after allegedly dining and dashing from a popular restaurant, Into the Forest, in the Khao Thong subdistrict. The incident, which took place on March 9, went viral after CCTV footage showed the man leaving without settling his bill, prompting a public alert. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354409-krabi-restaurant-outraged-after-tourist-dines-and-dashes/

Photo courtesy of 3Plus News A foreign tourist has stirred anger in Krabi after allegedly dining and dashing from a popular restaurant, Into the Forest, in the Khao Thong subdistrict. The incident, which took place on March 9, went viral after CCTV footage showed the man leaving without settling his bill, prompting a public alert. Described as tall and tattooed, the man ordered a lavish meal, including a ribeye steak and a drink, totalling about 700 baht. After the meal, he ordered a cake but used the moment to slip away under the guise of visiting the restroom. Restaurant employee Kwanta shared the deceitful encounter, noting that the tourist drove a sedan with a Phuket licence plate, likely a rental. He spent 15 to 20 minutes inside the restaurant before making his escape. "He seemed normal, ordering food and then a cake. But as I was entering his order, he said, 'I’ll be right back,' and vanished," Kwanta recounted. Her colleague noticed something amiss when the man swiftly exited to his car and drove off. The restaurant reported the incident to Krabi Immigration Police to help locate the suspect and recover the unpaid amount. Meanwhile, locals are on alert, with businesses warned to exercise caution. A Facebook user, Sloth Sa, shared the footage, urging the public to identify the man. The restaurant has also provided a detailed description, encouraging anyone with information to reach out via Facebook or phone at 063 062 1296. As the investigation unfolds, the community hopes to apprehend the individual responsible for the brazen act, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-12

Man Arrested in Phuket for Pen Gun Threat and Crystal Meth Possession Photo courtesy of Karon Police via The Phuket News In a dramatic encounter in Phuket, a man named Kittikorn "Toey" Chanmath was arrested for threatening a taxi driver with a pen gun on March 10 near Mae Somchit Kata Fresh Market. The incident occurred at about 6 pm, prompting swift action from Wichit Police, who intercepted the suspect on Kata Road. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354408-man-arrested-in-phuket-for-pen-gun-threat-and-crystal-meth-possession/

Photo courtesy of Karon Police via The Phuket News In a dramatic encounter in Phuket, a man named Kittikorn "Toey" Chanmath was arrested for threatening a taxi driver with a pen gun on March 10 near Mae Somchit Kata Fresh Market. The incident occurred at about 6 pm, prompting swift action from Wichit Police, who intercepted the suspect on Kata Road. Officers conducted a thorough search of Kittikorn and his white Mazda2, discovering a pen gun loaded with a .22-calibre bullet in his shorts pocket. Further examination revealed a plastic bag containing crystal meth, also known as Ice. Kittikorn was promptly taken to Karon Police Station. During questioning, a background check revealed a prior drug-related conviction in 2018 in Nakhon Si Thammarat. Testing confirmed the presence of crystal meth in Kittikorn's system. He now faces several charges, including the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, carrying a firearm in public without permission, and possession of Category 1 narcotics. Notably, the police report did not address the initial threat to the taxi driver, leaving open the possibility of additional charges as the investigation continues. Authorities are scrutinising the incident amidst rising concerns about the use of illicit firearms and drugs in public. The case highlights ongoing efforts to tackle such issues and ensure public safety in the region, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-12

Alleged Dating App Assault Sparks Countersuit Threat from Accused Photo via Hone Krasae A disturbing case has emerged after a Thai woman accused a man she met on a dating app of brutal assault, only for him to deny the charges and threaten a countersuit. The woman, aged 27, turned to Channel 3's news programme Hone Krasae for help, sharing her ordeal on March 11. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354407-alleged-dating-app-assault-sparks-countersuit-threat-from-accused/

Photo via Hone Krasae A disturbing case has emerged after a Thai woman accused a man she met on a dating app of brutal assault, only for him to deny the charges and threaten a countersuit. The woman, aged 27, turned to Channel 3's news programme Hone Krasae for help, sharing her ordeal on March 11. The woman recounted her interaction with the 37-year-old man, which began with two to three weeks of online chatting before meeting in person. Initially, he appeared polite and caring. However, on March 1, during an overnight stay at his home, the situation turned violent after she unintentionally failed to follow his instructions, sparking an outburst. The man allegedly assaulted her by strangling her, slapping her face, and threatening her with a gun. He also made terrifying threats of gang rape and murder. Her belongings were confiscated, and she felt too afraid to escape. The incident culminated in a forced sexual act before the man fell asleep. The next day, he feigned ignorance regarding her injuries. After convincing him to let her leave under the pretext of a scheduled visit from an air-conditioning technician, she went straight to a hospital and then to the police. Fearing injustice due to the man's wealth and alleged history of assaulting other women, she took her story public via Hone Krasae. The accused has denied the allegations and plans to counter-sue. Police have summoned both parties for questioning next week, though no significant progress has been reported yet. This case underscores the complexities and challenges victims face in navigating justice, particularly when the accused has substantial influence or resources, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-12

Dog Barking Drama: When Neighbourly Conflicts Turn Threatening Picture courtesy of Thairath A contentious dispute between neighbours has garnered widespread attention after a woman received a threatening letter about her dog's barking. The letter, posted on March 11 in the Adorable Dog Lovers Facebook group, accused her of allowing her pet to disturb the community. The neighbour ominously warned that if the barking didn't cease, they would kill the dog. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354406-dog-barking-drama-when-neighbourly-conflicts-turn-threatening/

Picture courtesy of Thairath A contentious dispute between neighbours has garnered widespread attention after a woman received a threatening letter about her dog's barking. The letter, posted on March 11 in the Adorable Dog Lovers Facebook group, accused her of allowing her pet to disturb the community. The neighbour ominously warned that if the barking didn't cease, they would kill the dog. The letter urged the owner to be considerate of the community's peace. The online post quickly attracted a variety of reactions, with some advising the owner to evaluate her dog's behaviour, while others suggested involving the police due to the threat. Several commenters offered alternatives, such as dog training to reduce excessive barking, or mediating the issue with building management to explore solutions. In response, the woman clarified on her Facebook page that her dog does not bark persistently but responds to stimuli like passing people or other dogs. She assured that she regularly checks with nearby residents and has received feedback indicating minimal disturbance. The owner acknowledged her dog's barking but argued the letter's claims were exaggerated. She called for a measured approach to the situation, advocating for dialogue and understanding to prevent further escalation. The incident highlights the challenges in balancing pet ownership with community harmony and the importance of seeking amicable solutions to neighbourhood disputes, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-12

UPDATE: British Tourist Faces 10-Year Sentence for Cannabis Smuggling in Krabi Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail Daniel James Hallett, a 38-year-old British tourist from Hull, is potentially facing a decade-long prison sentence in Thailand after allegedly attempting to smuggle 38 kilos of cannabis at Krabi Airport. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354084-13kg-of-cannabis-found-in-krabi-airport-bathroom-suitcase/#findComment-19653676

British Tourist Faces 10-Year Sentence for Cannabis Smuggling in Krabi Picture courtesy of The Daily Mail Daniel James Hallett, a 38-year-old British tourist from Hull, is potentially facing a decade-long prison sentence in Thailand after allegedly attempting to smuggle 38 kilos of cannabis at Krabi Airport. Hallett, formerly a haulage company owner, was detained on March 8 as he tried to board a flight to London, following suspicions raised by customs officials during routine security checks. Officials discovered 35 vacuum-sealed packages of cannabis flowers cleverly concealed in his luggage with additional layers to disguise the scent. Captured at the airport wearing a charity t-shirt, Hallett was beside two massive suitcases alleged to contain the illegal substance. After the seizure of the cannabis, Hallett was taken to Nua Khlong District Police Station, with investigations underway regarding the smuggling attempt. He is charged under the Thai Customs Act and Traditional Thai Medicine Protection and Promotion Act for attempting to export controlled substances without permission. Police Colonel Apichat Jinaphen stressed the severity of the charges, clarifying that although cannabis is legal in Thailand, export without proper clearance violates the law. Hallett faces a potential sentence of up to 10 years, along with possible fines and confiscation of the illicit goods. With heightened airport security following numerous smuggling attempts, authorities urge tourists to respect Thailand’s nuanced cannabis regulations. Hallett's arrest marks the latest incident in a series of foreign nationals caught in similar offenses over the past year, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-12

Laotian Woman Fatally Shot in Karaoke Bar; Police Hunt for Suspect Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Tragedy struck a karaoke bar on Phetkasem Road, between Phatthalung and Hat Yai, when a 40-year-old Laotian woman, known as Pu, was shot and killed at around 9 pm on March 11. Responding swiftly, Police Colonel Chan Narong Sangsang from Khao Chaison Police Station led an investigative team to the scene. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354405-laotian-woman-fatally-shot-in-karaoke-bar-police-hunt-for-suspect/

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod Tragedy struck a karaoke bar on Phetkasem Road, between Phatthalung and Hat Yai, when a 40-year-old Laotian woman, known as Pu, was shot and killed at around 9 pm on March 11. Responding swiftly, Police Colonel Chan Narong Sangsang from Khao Chaison Police Station led an investigative team to the scene. Inside the bar, in a secluded bedroom, Pu's lifeless body was found with four gunshot wounds to her head and body. Investigators recovered a 9mm unused bullet and three 9mm shell casings, which will aid in the ongoing investigation. According to Anucha, the 31-year-old bar owner, a regular patron named Chalerm arrived at the establishment and demanded to see Pu, who was hiding in a room. After she refused to open the door, Chalerm allegedly forced entry and shot her, fleeing immediately after the incident. Anucha revealed that Pu and Chalerm were frequent visitors to the bar and had been embroiled in arguments driven by jealousy. Although Pu was not employed by the bar, she often came to enjoy drinks. A recent altercation is believed to have driven Pu to seek refuge at the bar, where Chalerm eventually found and attacked her. Police are currently on the lookout for Chalerm, described as having a limp and driving a bronze single-cab pickup truck. His last known direction was towards Tamot district in Phatthalung province. Authorities are appealing for any information from the public that could lead to his capture, as efforts to locate him continue, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-12

Russian Man Arrested for Illegally Operating Motorbike Rentals in Krabi Photo via Facebook/ เฮียว๊อก ฅน แซ่เขา ซินฮะฮวด Authorities in Krabi province have arrested a 43-year-old Russian national, Evgeny Khamitov, for operating motorcycle rental businesses illegally, using Thai citizens as nominees. The operation, conducted by the Krabi Immigration Office, the Revenue Office, and Tourist Police, followed a tip-off suggesting foreign nationals were managing illegal rental shops in the area. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354404-russian-man-arrested-for-illegally-operating-motorbike-rentals-in-krabi/

Photo via Facebook/ เฮียว๊อก ฅน แซ่เขา ซินฮะฮวด Authorities in Krabi province have arrested a 43-year-old Russian national, Evgeny Khamitov, for operating motorcycle rental businesses illegally, using Thai citizens as nominees. The operation, conducted by the Krabi Immigration Office, the Revenue Office, and Tourist Police, followed a tip-off suggesting foreign nationals were managing illegal rental shops in the area. After a three-month investigation, police raided four locations on March 11, apprehending Khamitov and three Thai accomplices: 43-year-old Nattakwan Pongphanlop Lucas, 48-year-old Phanlop Iam-chan, and 52-year-old Suphaporn Taeng-on. Khamitov was identified as the mastermind behind the businesses, while the Thai nationals facilitated his operations by posing as legitimate business owners. The rental shops primarily targeted foreign customers, especially Russian nationals, with revenues funnelled into Khamitov's bank account. The investigation revealed that the Thai nominees allowed the Russian to circumvent Thai business laws by using their names. The Thai accomplices face charges under Section 36 of the Foreign Business Operator Act for aiding a foreign national in conducting business without appropriate permits. The legal consequences include up to three years in prison, fines ranging from 100,000 to 1 million baht, or both. For Khamitov, charges were filed under Section 83 of the Criminal Law for abetting criminal acts, carrying penalties similar to those of his Thai counterparts. This crackdown highlights ongoing efforts to enforce Thai business regulations and address illegal operations that exploit nominee arrangements, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-12

Suspect in Isaan Murder Case Accuses Police Officer of Involvement Photo via ThaiRath In a troubling murder case in Sakon Nakhon province, one of the suspects has implicated a police officer in the scheme to kill 32-year-old Wichian Jityen for a 14 million baht insurance payout. The investigation began when insurance companies flagged suspicious circumstances surrounding Wichian's death. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354403-suspect-in-isaan-murder-case-accuses-police-officer-of-involvement/

Photo via ThaiRath In a troubling murder case in Sakon Nakhon province, one of the suspects has implicated a police officer in the scheme to kill 32-year-old Wichian Jityen for a 14 million baht insurance payout. The investigation began when insurance companies flagged suspicious circumstances surrounding Wichian's death. Wichian's death was initially reported as an accident involving three vehicles. According to the suspects, Wichian fell from a pickup driven by Somsak Wobao, and while one vehicle managed to avoid him, another, driven by Peerasak Raksakun, allegedly ran over him. However, insurance firms doubted the accident narrative, noting unconventional death-related injuries and recently acquired multiple policies on the involved vehicles. They suspected murder to collect the insurance money. Wichian's sister had also previously mentioned to one of the suspects, Sakon Sornkaew, that she wished for her brother's demise out of anger but did not mean it literally. Police issued warrants for the arrest of Sakon, Somsak, Peerasak, and Pornchanok Onsurathum, based on the evidence. Peerasak confessed, indicating a deliberate murder plan, while Sakon and Somsak denied involvement. Pornchanok, later surrendering to authorities, admitted partial involvement but claimed coercion by Sakon. He revealed the murder was camouflaged as an accident, after Wichian was left drunk on the road deliberately to be killed. Intriguingly, Pornchanok alleged that Police Lieutenant Colonel Nanmanas Phosri was present during crime planning discussions. Lt. Col. Nanmanas is now under investigation for his purported role in the sordid affair. This case highlights serious allegations of police complicity in a gruesome murder, urging a thorough probe into the claims and leaving open-ended questions about the extent of corruption within the ranks, reported The Thaiger. -- 2025-03-12

Driver Startled Awake by Clever Police Ploy in Nan City Picture courtesy of Amarin TV A sleepy driver in Thailand had an unexpected wake-up call when police threatened him with a visit from his wife, jolting him from slumber behind the wheel. The unusual incident unfolded in bustling Nan City at 12.30 am on March 12, when locals noticed a pickup truck idling at a red light since 11 pm. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354402-driver-startled-awake-by-clever-police-ploy-in-nan-city/