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UPDATE:

From Missing to Found: Danish Man Resurfaces With Girlfriend in Thailand

Picture courtesy of ScandAsia

The baffling disappearance of 59-year-old Dane Brian Dilling Pedersen has unravelled into a love story. Discovered on Thursday in the serene district of Pak Phanang, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Pedersen was all smiles, living peacefully with his new girlfriend. Fears of foul play dissipated as the local police's swift search led them to the couple's whereabouts.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1362697-danish-man-disappears-amid-extortion-fears-in-southern-thailand/#findComment-19849456

UPDATE:

From Missing to Found: Danish Man Resurfaces With Girlfriend in Thailand

Picture courtesy of ScandAsia

The baffling disappearance of 59-year-old Dane Brian Dilling Pedersen has unravelled into a love story. Discovered on Thursday in the serene district of Pak Phanang, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Pedersen was all smiles, living peacefully with his new girlfriend. Fears of foul play dissipated as the local police's swift search led them to the couple's whereabouts.

Before being officially reported as missing, authorities located Pedersen at his girlfriend's residence, where he'd been staying since checking out from a nearby guesthouse. Alongside his partner, he paid a visit to the local police station, joined by ScandAsia's Gregers Moller and two officers from the regional Tourist Police. Assuring everyone of his well-being, Pedersen clarified a misunderstanding with his family, confirming recent contact with his son and dismissing concerns of any distress.

Apologetic for the alarm caused, Pedersen stated, "I'm sorry if this has worried my family and friends in Denmark. My situation here is fantastic, and I'm very happy." The deleted Facebook page, a point of concern, was explained by Pedersen’s girlfriend in Thai, who revealed it was removed to shield his new relationship from his wife in Sakon Nakhon. Pedersen, on the other hand, cited security reasons, asserting the account had been compromised.

As the pieces of the puzzle fit, Pedersen is set to return to Denmark on 8 June 2025, aligning with his visa expiry the following day. His son, Steven Risager Madsen, expressed relief, ensuring gratitude for the collective efforts that resolved this unsettling episode. Pedersen's tale serves as a gentle reminder of the complexities in today’s digital age, with happy conclusions often nestled in simplicity.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from ScandAsia 2025-06-05

Sattahip Students Praised for Aiding Injured Foreigner in Bike-Car Crash

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath

At approximately 16:30 on 4th June, Lt. Suriyah Yupum of the Najomtien Police Station in Sattahip, Chonburi, received reports of a serious collision involving a big bike and a car on Sukhumvit Road at the Nong Jab Tao intersection heading towards Pattaya.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1362735-sattahip-students-praised-for-aiding-injured-foreigner-in-bike-car-crash/

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath

At approximately 16:30 on 4th June, Lt. Suriyah Yupum of the Najomtien Police Station in Sattahip, Chonburi received reports of a serious collision involving a big bike and a car on Sukhumvit Road, at the Nong Jab Tao intersection heading towards Pattaya.

Upon arrival at the scene, alongside rescue workers from the Sawang Rojanathammasathan Sattahip Foundation, they discovered a heavily damaged Ducati motorcycle, registered in Bangkok.

The rider, Mr. Nivan, 39, had suffered abrasions and a severely fractured right thigh. He was promptly transported to a local hospital.

Nearby, a green Volvo car registered in Rayong, driven by Mr. Mongkol, 68, also showed significant damage. Initial inquiries indicated that the car had changed lanes without noticing the motorcycle, leading to the collision.

Police documented the scene and will question both the injured motorcyclist and the car driver for further legal proceedings.

Notably, two students from Sattahip Technical College arrived at the scene, assisting by directing traffic to prevent further accidents.

Their prompt actions were praised by onlookers and rescue personnel for contributing positively to the community.

Picture courtesy of Siam Rath

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Siam Rath 2025-06-05

Nonthaburi Immigration Arrest Syrian Man for Visa Overstay

Picture courtesy of Naewna

Nonthaburi Immigration officers have successfully detained a Syrian national, Nayef AlMohamad, aged 39, for overstaying his visa by over six months.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1362728-nonthaburi-immigration-arrest-syrian-man-for-visa-overstay/

Picture courtesy of Naewna

Nonthaburi Immigration officers have successfully detained a Syrian national, Nayef AlMohamad, aged 39, for overstaying his visa by over six months.

On 4th June 2025, the operation was led by Pol. Col. Padthongthiw Damapong along with a team of officers, including Pol. Lt. Col. Sukrit Meebumrung, Pol. Lt. Col. Thanapon Chantra, and Pol. Sub. Lt. Decha Akkala.

The team apprehended Mr. AlMohamad in Soi Chaeng Watthana-Pak Kret 26, located in the Bang Talat area of the Pak Kret district. The arresting officers have charged him under Thai immigration laws, citing his failure to extend his visa, which resulted in a 208-day overstay.

Mr. AlMohamad's case has now been transferred to the Pak Kret Police Station, where he will face legal proceedings according to the Kingdom's strict immigration policies. This breach of immigration law underscores the importance for foreign nationals in Thailand to remain vigilant about maintaining the validity of their visas.

The authorities' swift action in this case highlights their ongoing commitment to enforcing immigration regulations. Following the legal process, Mr. AlMohamad will be deported back to Syria, ensuring compliance with the country's immigration laws.

The case serves as a reminder to the expatriate community and visitors alike of the critical importance of adhering to visa requirements and the potential consequences of non-compliance.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Naewna 2025-06-05

Bangkok Tower Collapse Scandal: 70 Officials on the Hook

File photo for reference only

In one of the biggest scandals to hit Bangkok, 70 state officials are under the spotlight for their alleged involvement in a bidding collusion tied to the collapsed State Audit Office (SAO) building.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1362726-bangkok-tower-collapse-scandal-70-officials-on-the-hook/

File photo for reference only

In one of the biggest scandals to hit Bangkok, 70 state officials are under the spotlight for their alleged involvement in a bidding collusion tied to the collapsed State Audit Office (SAO) building.

The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has implicated former and current SAO executives, as well as 10 committees singled out for their role in the events leading to the disaster.

On March 28, 2025, an earthquake measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale caused the swift fall of the 2.1-billion-Baht, 30-storey skyscraper, ending in tragedy with 89 fatalities and leaving seven others unaccounted for.

It's alleged that the SAO executives manipulated the bidding process to secure contracts for a specific joint venture called PKW. The PKW group encompasses companies PN Synchronize, KP Consultants and Management, and W and Associates Consultants.

Changes were reportedly made to favour PKW by altering bid terms, yet the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) will have the final say on whether this was intentional manipulation.

In a significant development, the DSI has just wrapped its investigation, turning over its findings to the NACC. The official probe, backed by the authority of the NACC, will determine whether the evidence holds up against these high-profile officials.

With 121 boxes of documents from PKW’s headquarters already collected in previous raids, the DSI unveils that inspection failures were a linchpin in the building's dramatic fall.

Adding another twist, at least two insiders have reportedly spilt the beans, offering crucial details to investigators. Rumours swirl around the involvement of the current Auditor-General, Monthien Charoenpol, but officials remain tight-lipped on any individual specifics. The recent revelation that past suspicions and irregularities date back to 2009 hints at a larger, darker backdrop to this saga.

Between its spectacular rise and calamity-laden tumble, the SAO building saga now pivots from property tragedy to gripping legal drama. Only time will tell the full story as eyes remain glued to the NACC's upcoming decisions.

With the DSI having already pursued another angle involving the use of dummy contractors by China Railway No.10 (Thailand) Co Ltd, the plot further thickens. The Chinese contractor was implicated as part of the building's tarnished creation, bringing a broader international scope into play.

Whether justice will serve those affected by the quake disaster remains pending upcoming NACC rulings. The drip-feed of revelations adds layers while fostering an air of anticipation for the next chapter in this sobering narrative.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-06-05

Covid Cases Spike in Thailand: 28,000 New Cases in Just Two Days

File photo courtesy of Photo: Xinhua/VNA

Thailand is witnessing a significant surge in Covid-19 cases. Over two days, 28,294 new cases have been tallied, escalating concerns. The rise comes as the rainy season begins and schools reopen, leading to a spike in infections.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1362714-covid-cases-spike-in-thailand-28000-new-cases-in-just-two-days/

File photo courtesy of Photo: Xinhua/VNA

Thailand is witnessing a significant surge in Covid-19 cases. Over two days, 28,294 new cases have been tallied, escalating concerns. The rise comes as the rainy season begins and schools reopen, leading to a spike in infections.

The Department of Disease Control (DDC) recorded 10,192 new cases on June 2, 2025. A day earlier, June 1, saw 18,102 new cases, underscoring the rapid increase. Among these, 9,304 were outpatient cases, while 888 were severe enough to require hospitalisation. Unfortunately, there was also a death reported during this time frame.

By May 27, 2025, the year’s cumulative count of COVID-19 cases had reached 323,301, alongside 69 fatalities. Mortality largely affects the “608 group”, comprising the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. Prominent urban areas such as Bangkok, Chonburi, Chanthaburi, and Chiang Mai are the most affected, accounting for a significant portion of the fatalities.

Dr Taweesin Visanuyothin of the Department of Medical Services links the surge to late summer's rain-triggered illnesses and school openings. With influenza showing similar symptoms to Covid-19, individuals can easily confuse one illness for another. The situation is not yet critical, given a low mortality rate of 0.106 per 100,000 people.

Dr Suthat Chottanapund, Deputy Director-General of the DDC, notes that these trends align with seasonal patterns. Schools and the rainy season create environments conducive to upper respiratory infections. He calls for vigilance and personal preventive measures like social distancing and hand hygiene.

The prevalent Covid-19 strain, XEC, is highly infectious, but its symptoms remain mild. Therefore, fears of widespread hospitalisations are unwarranted. This is reflected in the mild symptoms most patients experience, akin to influenza, allowing recovery without extensive medical intervention.

Individual precaution is crucial, especially for high-risk groups, such as the elderly or the very young. Those with severe symptoms should seek medical attention. Treatment options include antiviral drugs like Remdesivir and Paxlovid, which remain in supply. To prevent widespread disruptions, authorities advise symptomatic individuals to wear masks and maintain hygiene but recommend against closing schools or workplaces.

Those with mild symptoms are encouraged to deal with Covid-19 as they would with a common cold. Some precautions include wearing a mask and avoiding large gatherings for the initial days of illness. Meanwhile, the Government Pharmaceutical Organisation ensures no shortage of necessary medications, including Molnupiravir for moderate cases.

With the current measures and treatments in place, authorities stress the importance of wearing masks and regular handwashing, especially when symptoms are present. Dr Sakan Bunnag from the Department of Medical Services advises against halting daily activities or mandating self-quarantine, as the severity of the disease does not currently warrant such actions.

Thailand’s public health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasising vaccination and personal precautions to mitigate further outbreaks while maintaining essential societal functions.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-06-05

US Tourist's Temple Graffiti Sparks Outrage in Chiang Mai

Wat Lam Chang. Picture courtesy of Wikipedia

A US tourist has sparked controversy by defacing a historical temple wall in Chiang Mai. Police are racing to track the traveller who allegedly vandalised Wat Lam Chang with graffiti, leaving by plane shortly after the incident.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1362704-us-tourists-temple-graffiti-sparks-outrage-in-chiang-mai/

Wat Lam Chang. Picture courtesy of Wikipedia

A US tourist has sparked controversy by defacing a historical temple wall in Chiang Mai. Police are racing to track the traveller who allegedly vandalised Wat Lam Chang with graffiti, leaving by plane shortly after the incident.

The temple’s abbot discovered the damage to the wall on Ratchapakhinai Road early Tuesday. This centuries-old site, dating back to the Lanna kingdom's founding, has faced repeated acts of vandalism. The recent offence involved black spray paint defacing a mural with English text and a house design.

Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post

Wat Lam Chang's long history is intertwined with the heritage of Chiang Mai, making its desecration a significant issue for locals. The temple, over 650 years old, has been a repeated target, leading to increased security measures, including the installation of CCTV cameras. This latest incident, caught on video, revealed the perpetrator arriving on a motorcycle.

The police confirmed that the suspect, an American national, has fled Chiang Mai, prompting coordination with immigration to trace his whereabouts. This case follows a troubling trend of international visitors disrespecting Thailand’s cultural sites, frequently resulting in legal action.

The abbot of Wat Lam Chang insists on pressing charges without any negotiations, aiming to uphold the site's sanctity. Meanwhile, Chiang Mai Police have yet to solve previous vandalism cases, highlighting an ongoing challenge in protecting such heritage sites.

This incident underlines growing concerns over the safeguarding of Chiang Mai's cultural treasures amid a surge in tourism. Calls for tougher regulations and preventive strategies intensify as similar cases continue to emerge nationwide.

Authorities emphasise the importance of preserving the rich cultural legacy against the backdrop of increasing vandalism by foreign visitors.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Bangkok Post 2025-06-05

Thai PM Paetongtarn Defends Family Ties with Hun Sen Amid Border Tension

Former Cambodian PM Hun Sen visited his long-time friend Thaksin Shinawatra at the Ban Chan Song La residence in Bangkok’s Bang Phlat district in February 2024. Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World

In the thick of growing political tensions, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra declared that her family's close ties to former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen are not a conflict of interest.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1362702-thai-pm-paetongtarn-defends-family-ties-with-hun-sen-amid-border-tension/

Former Cambodian PM Hun Sen visited his long-time friend Thaksin Shinawatra at the Ban Chan Song La residence in Bangkok’s Bang Phlat district in February 2024. Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World

In the thick of growing political tensions, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra declared that her family's close ties to former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen are not a conflict of interest.

She urged the Thai public to steer clear of fake news that could intensify border disputes with Cambodia. The former Cambodian leader visited Thailand in February 2024 to see his long-time friend, Thaksin Shinawatra.

Addressing speculation, Paetongtarn emphasised that close familial bonds might actually aid in resolving conflicts rather than inflaming them. “I will not give up my house to a neighbour,” she assured, committing that her government would not compromise Thai territory to Cambodia, regardless of familial relationships.

The Prime Minister stressed unity among all Thais, highlighting that divisions could further complicate the crucial border issue at hand.

Paetongtarn encouraged collaboration between the government, opposition, and public in facing national challenges. Emphasising a peaceful stance, she stated that it is crucial to avoid any needless conflict or loss of life. Meetings with the Thai military aim to approach border difficulties strategically without resorting to hostilities.

Furthermore, Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai is set to assess the situation at Chong Bok and attend a Joint Boundary Committee meeting on June 14. This move is part of ongoing efforts to address and discuss border problems with Cambodian counterparts.

The directive underscores Thailand’s commitment to a diplomatic resolution, integrating familial ties into broader strategies for peace and stability.

By neutralising potential tensions through diplomatic channels and familial negotiations, Thailand reinforces its stand for peace and cooperation amid challenging regional dynamics.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai PBS World 2025-06-05

Urgent Call for Border Safety: Seven Thai Provinces on High Alert

Anutin Charnvirakul. File photo courtesy of moneyandbanking

The Interior Ministry has dispatched urgent orders to seven provinces bordering Cambodia, urging a swift enhancement of security measures. Aimed at fortifying public safety and bolstering security missions, this directive follows recent skirmishes between Thai and Cambodian forces.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1362700-urgent-call-for-border-safety-seven-thai-provinces-on-high-alert/

Anutin Charnvirakul. File photo courtesy of moneyandbanking

The Interior Ministry has dispatched urgent orders to seven provinces bordering Cambodia, urging a swift enhancement of security measures. Aimed at fortifying public safety and bolstering security missions, this directive follows recent skirmishes between Thai and Cambodian forces.

The letters, signed by Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, highlight crucial steps for local governors to follow.

Governors of Trat, Chanthaburi, Sa Kaeo, Ubon Ratchathani, Sisaket, Surin, and Buriram have been tasked with mobilising resources and personnel.

This action stems from a Bangkok-issued directive after military tensions flared up at the Chong Bok border area in Ubon Ratchathani on May 28, where a clash occurred between Thai and Cambodian soldiers. The Interior Ministry is aiming to prevent any escalation along these precarious borders.

The urgent instructions comprise four primary measures: prioritising the safety of residents by evaluating risks in vulnerable areas, developing evacuation procedures, and establishing shelters in safer zones. Provinces are further instructed to ready defence personnel and conduct regular checks in sensitive locations, maintaining a robust line of defence.

Public communication is also a key part of the strategy. Governors are pressed to keep locals continuously informed to prevent panic, ensuring that the populace is prepared to act decisively if the situation demands.

Additionally, any disturbance affecting the safety of people should be promptly reported to the Department of Provincial Administration.

This proactive measure underscores the Thai government's commitment to maintaining peace and security in its border provinces, where tensions may arise, affecting both local communities and broader diplomatic relations with Cambodia. The focus remains firmly on safeguarding the public while keeping lines of communication open and responsive to the swiftly shifting dynamics at the border.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-06-05

Danish Man Disappears Amid Extortion Fears in Southern Thailand

Picture courtesy of ScandAsia.com

A 59-year-old Danish man, Brian Dilling Pedersen, has vanished under ominous circumstances in southern Thailand, sparking fears of a possible extortion case. His son, Steven Risager Madsen, is deeply worried that his father might have fallen prey to an extortion racket while residing in Nakhon Si Thammarat province.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1362697-danish-man-disappears-amid-extortion-fears-in-southern-thailand/

Picture courtesy of ScandAsia.com

A 59-year-old Danish man, Brian Dilling Pedersen, has vanished under ominous circumstances in southern Thailand, sparking fears of a possible extortion case. His son, Steven Risager Madsen, is deeply worried that his father might have fallen prey to an extortion racket while residing in Nakhon Si Thammarat province.

This unsettling development comes after Brian's trip to Thailand on 20 December 2024, primarily spent in Sakon Nakhon province's Kusuman district.

On 12 April 2025, Brian travelled from Vientiane, Laos, to Bangkok and likely returned to Kusuman, described as his Thai abode. Fast forward to 26 May 2025, he was back in Bangkok, setting course for Nakhon Si Thammarat.

His intended meeting was with a young Thai woman he had befriended online, reportedly born on 20 March 2004. ScandAsia.com is aware of both her Facebook and Thai names.

Brian appeared joyful on 27 May 2025, sending his son a picture of a woman and child resting on his bed. He shared plans to return to Denmark by 7 June 2025, prior to his visa expiration.

But the following day marked a stark change. During a video call on 28 May 2025, Brian revealed a short clip of his accommodation—Ban Chai Khlong in Pak Phanang district. Suddenly, his demeanour shifted, his gaze moved off-camera in apparent concern, and the call abruptly ended.

Steven asserts this was when Brian's phone was forcibly taken. This theory gained traction when Brian's entire Facebook profile, along with Messenger chats, was wiped clean shortly thereafter. Fortunately, Steven had earlier preserved screenshots of their exchanges and photographs.

On 31 May 2025, Brian managed to call his son from a Thai phone linked to an individual whose identity is familiar to ScandAsia. The call was cut short, yet not before Brian expressed, "I am afraid; they are many; I am afraid." Steven noted the stark contrast: "From being in love on Wednesday to sounding terrified on Saturday, something is clearly wrong."

Steven reported his father missing to Denmark's East Jutland police district, who are scrutinising Brian’s bank records for any suspicious transactions between 27 May and 31 May 2025. Meanwhile, ScandAsia confirmed through the Ban Chai Khlong Restaurant that Brian was lodging alone, with him departing unaccompanied on 3 June 2025.

In response to the alarming situation as of 4 June 2025, Gregers Moller, ScandAsia's publisher, acting on Steven’s power of attorney, filed a missing person report with the Thai Tourist Police. However, the Tourist Police indicated a formal inquiry requires filing at Ban Chao Khlong district’s local police precinct in Nakhon Si Thammarat.

There is yet no definitive proof linking the young woman to any malpractice, though her Facebook post – “Have you got the agreed amount ready now?” – suggests Brian may be entangled in debt collection or other coercive activities.

Authorities in Nakhon Si Thammarat have been urged to expedite their investigation. Anyone possessing knowledge of Brian Dilling Pedersen’s whereabouts is implored to inform local police or contact ScandAsia.com.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from ScandAsia 2025-06-05

Thai PM Orders Standardised Smoking Areas at Airports for Travellers

File photo for reference only

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has directed the transport and health ministries to establish standardised smoking areas at Thailand's airports. 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1362665-thai-pm-orders-standardised-smoking-areas-at-airports-for-travellers/