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Woman Attempts to Buy “Ice” From Police During Pattaya Drugs Raid Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a bizarre twist during a routine anti-drug operation in Jomtien, Pattaya, a woman unwittingly approached a police officer to buy crystal methamphetamine , commonly known as “ice”, without realising he was part of the drug suppression unit. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361622-woman-attempts-to-buy-“ice”-from-police-during-pattaya-drugs-raid/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a bizarre twist during a routine anti-drug operation in Jomtien, Pattaya, a woman unwittingly approached a police officer to buy crystal methamphetamine , commonly known as “ice”, without realising he was part of the drug suppression unit. Pol Lt Prasit Boonprasit, head of the narcotics suppression team at Pattaya City Police Station, was leading a sweep of known drug hotspots in Sois 2, 3 and 4 of the Jomtien area. The operation, aligned with a national directive to reclaim drug-affected communities, had already netted several suspected dealers and users. While officers were surveying the area, a woman, believed to be between 40 and 45 years old, casually approached and attempted to purchase methamphetamine from the plainclothes officer. Mistaking him for a dealer, she requested “ice”. In a moment of quick thinking, the officer jokingly held out a piece of regular ice, only for the woman to respond adamantly: “Not that kind, the one that comes in flakes and you can smoke.” She further urged him to speak quietly, making a “shhh” gesture, and insisted it was fine to sell as it was just “a good stimulant,” according to witnesses. The woman remained unaware of the officer’s identity even as backup arrived. She persisted with her request until the team revealed their true roles and took her into custody. A drug screening was immediately carried out. Further arrests were made in connection with drug distribution networks in the area. Authorities confiscated narcotics and related paraphernalia and have initiated extended investigations to dismantle the local supply chain. All suspects, including the woman, are now in the custody of Pattaya City Police and will face charges under anti-narcotics laws. The unusual encounter has drawn attention online, with social media users expressing a mix of disbelief and frustration over the situation. The police, meanwhile, reiterated their commitment to drug eradication in vulnerable communities across the country. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-24.

UPDATE Songkhla Council Member “Sor Golf” Faces New Charges Amid Silence on Removal Proceedings Picture courtesy of Matichon. Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organisation Council Member Siradon Phlaiduang, better known as “Sor Golf”, is facing additional criminal charges in a deepening scandal that has put local authorities under scrutiny for their inaction. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360410-son-of-prominent-mp-sparks-violence-at-songkhla-polling-station/#findComment-19821080

UPDATE Songkhla Council Member “Sor Golf” Faces New Charges Amid Silence on Removal Proceedings Picture courtesy of Matichon. Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organisation Council Member Siradon Phlaiduang, better known as “Sor Golf”, is facing additional criminal charges in a deepening scandal that has put local authorities under scrutiny for their inaction. The Election Commission (EC) is now preparing to file a new complaint, while the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is monitoring the conduct of the Songkhla Provincial Council, which has yet to convene a meeting to consider his removal. The controversy stems from a violent incident on 11 May, in which Mr Siradon allegedly ordered six subordinates to assault Pol Sgt Nisatit Kongthep, a border patrol officer assigned to polling station security in Songkhla’s Muang District. All seven individuals now face charges including assaulting a public official while performing duties, using weapons, and forming a criminal gang. The case has been transferred to the Crime Suppression Division for further investigation. Further complicating the situation, Mr Siradon has been linked to the WINGAME98 online gambling network, which is under investigation by the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB). Authorities estimate that the illegal operation generated over 200 million baht. Arrest warrants have been issued for 18 individuals, with four apprehended to date. Investigators are actively pursuing financial trails and additional suspects connected to the network, which has been in operation since 2022. Despite the serious nature of the allegations, the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Council has remained silent. No members have yet signed a petition to convene a special session to discuss Mr Siradon’s removal, which would require signatures from at least one-third of the 36-member council (12 members). This is in spite of prior communication from the NACC urging the council to uphold its responsibilities under the 1997 Provincial Administrative Organisation Act. Lt Col Somnuek Kulmanee, director of the Songkhla EC office, confirmed that the central EC has authorised him to file a new complaint for obstruction of election duties, an offence in which the EC considers itself a co-victim. The filing must be made with the Crime Suppression Division, which is now handling the main investigation. Mr Siradon, who received the highest vote count in the most recent PAO elections, is also under investigation for alleged vote-buying through hosting campaign-related banquets. The Songkhla EC has completed its preliminary inquiry into the matter and is preparing to submit its findings to the central EC. NACC provincial director Ram Wasuthanaphinyoyo stressed that no individual is above the law and urged the Songkhla PAO council to act in accordance with its legal duties. While the NACC cannot directly order a dismissal, it is closely monitoring the situation. Mr Ram noted the public interest in the case and emphasised the need for swift action to preserve the integrity of the local administration. Although the law does not mandate a strict timeline for the removal process, pressure is mounting for the council to act. The provincial governor, in his supervisory role, has reportedly already issued directives. Ultimately, it falls to the council to decide whether Mr Siradon should remain in office or be removed, but the council must follow legal procedures and respond to the expectations of the public. “This case goes beyond legality, it concerns public ethics and the reputation of the Songkhla PAO,” said Mr Ram. “Whatever the outcome, the council must provide answers to the public.” Related Article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361505-cyber-police-raid-home-of-local-councillor-‘sor-golf’-in-major-online-gambling-crackdown/ Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-24.

Krabi Police Chief & District Officer Transferred Following Palm Plantation Gambling Raid Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a decisive move to uphold law enforcement integrity, Lieutenant General Surapong Thanomjit, Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 8, has ordered on 23 May, the transfer of Krabi Provincial Police Chief, Police Major General Chaiyakiat Wiriyasathitkul, and Plai Phraya Police Station Superintendent, Police Colonel Narong Lakwimon. The action follows a significant raid on an illegal gambling operation concealed within a palm oil plantation in Plai Phraya district. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361621-krabi-police-chief-district-officer-transferred-following-palm-plantation-gambling-raid/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a decisive move to uphold law enforcement integrity, Lieutenant General Surapong Thanomjit, Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 8, has ordered on 23 May, the transfer of Krabi Provincial Police Chief, Police Major General Chaiyakiat Wiriyasathitkul, and Plai Phraya Police Station Superintendent, Police Colonel Narong Lakwimon. The action follows a significant raid on an illegal gambling operation concealed within a palm oil plantation in Plai Phraya district. On 21 May, a coordinated operation led by the Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) and local defence volunteers dismantled a clandestine gambling den in Khao To subdistrict. The raid resulted in the arrest of 71 individuals and the seizure of various gambling paraphernalia. Preliminary investigations suggest the establishment had a monthly cash flow exceeding 12 million baht. Notably, the operation was reportedly linked to individuals claiming affiliations with national-level political figures, facilitating its operations and clientele recruitment. In response to the incident, DOPA Director-General Chaiwat Chuntirapong signed an order transferring Plai Phraya District Chief, Ms. Nanthicha Koetkaew, to an administrative role at the College of Local Administration, effective immediately. The swift administrative reshuffling underscores the Thai government’s commitment to combating illegal gambling activities and ensuring accountability among public officials. Further investigations are underway to identify and prosecute all individuals involved in the illicit operation. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-24.

Schoolboy Fatally Stabbed in Canteen After Grudge Dating Back to Primary School Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 12-year-old schoolboy has died after being stabbed multiple times by a classmate during a lunchtime altercation at a secondary school in Phibun Mangsahan district, Ubon Ratchathani. The shocking incident took place on 22 May and is believed to have stemmed from a long-standing grudge dating back to the boys’ primary school days. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361620-schoolboy-fatally-stabbed-in-canteen-after-grudge-dating-back-to-primary-school/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 12-year-old schoolboy has died after being stabbed multiple times by a classmate during a lunchtime altercation at a secondary school in Phibun Mangsahan district, Ubon Ratchathani. The shocking incident took place on 22 May and is believed to have stemmed from a long-standing grudge dating back to the boys’ primary school days. Police from Phibun Mangsahan Police Station were alerted at 12:40, to a violent altercation at the school’s canteen in Ang Sila subdistrict. Emergency services rushed to the scene, where they found a Mathayom pupil critically injured after being stabbed with a knife by a fellow Mathayom student. The victim was quickly transported to hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly afterwards. The suspect was taken into custody at the scene along with the 10-inch blade used in the attack. Authorities are conducting a thorough investigation and officials from multiple agencies, including juvenile justice professionals, have been called in to assist with legal proceedings. According to relatives of the deceased, the attack was the culmination of an unresolved conflict between the two students, dating back to when they were in primary school. The two had allegedly exchanged insults in the past, but there had been no physical altercations until now. Since the beginning of the school term, the accused was reportedly seen staring down the victim and making threatening gestures. Despite this, the victim, described as well-mannered and not prone to conflict, ignored the provocations. Witnesses said that during the school lunch break, while the victim was speaking with friends in the canteen, the suspect pulled the knife from under his shirt and stabbed the boy 5–6 times in the torso, arms and neck. Local vendors intervened and tried to perform CPR before emergency responders arrived. The boy was declared dead at Sappasitthiprasong Hospital. His family, grieving at the mortuary, has called for legal reform, urging stricter penalties for serious crimes committed by juveniles. “If the law remains lenient, children who kill will grow up thinking they can do as they please. It becomes a habit,” said the boy’s aunt, Ms Malai. “Young offenders who commit such crimes should face jail just like adults.” His body has been taken to his home village in Don Na Yia, Ban Khaem subdistrict, where funeral rites will be held after the arrival of his father, who is returning from Taiwan. In response to the incident, education officials have pledged to strengthen school safety measures and provide psychological support to affected students and families. The accused has been remanded to the Juvenile Observation and Protection Centre in Ubon Ratchathani while investigations continue. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-24.

Gunman Opens Fire with Assault Rifle in Songkhla, Leaving One Dead Picture courtesy of Matichon. In the early hours of the morning of 23 May, a fatal shooting occurred outside a grocery store on Thung Wang Road in Phawong subdistrict, Songkhla province. A gunman, driving a black sedan, opened fire with an AK-47 assault rifle, killing a 29-year-old man identified as Mr. Jiraphon. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361619-gunman-opens-fire-with-assault-rifle-in-songkhla-leaving-one-dead/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. In the early hours of the morning of 23 May, a fatal shooting occurred outside a grocery store on Thung Wang Road in Phawong subdistrict, Songkhla province. A gunman, driving a black sedan, opened fire with an AK-47 assault rifle, killing a 29-year-old man identified as Mr. Jiraphon. According to police reports, the incident took place at approximately 01:20. Witnesses stated that Mr. Jiraphon and several friends were inside the store when the vehicle arrived. Upon approaching the door to investigate, Mr. Jiraphon was met with a barrage of gunfire. He was struck multiple times and collapsed near a bed inside the store. Investigators recovered 28 spent shell casings from the scene, including 25 from an AK-47 rifle. The store’s entrance bore numerous bullet holes, indicating the intensity of the attack. Police Colonel Jamlong Suwalak, superintendent of Mueang Songkhla Police Station, stated that the motive is believed to be personal. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage to identify the perpetrator and trace the escape route. The investigation is ongoing as police work to apprehend the suspect. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-24.

Rescue in Central Pattaya as Air-Con Technician Falls from 5th Floor Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A rescue operation unfolded in central Pattaya on the afternoon of 23 May, when an air-conditioning technician fell from the fifth floor of a commercial building and became trapped on a balcony one floor below. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361618-rescue-in-central-pattaya-as-air-con-technician-falls-from-5th-floor/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A rescue operation unfolded in central Pattaya on the afternoon of 23 May, when an air-conditioning technician fell from the fifth floor of a commercial building and became trapped on a balcony one floor below. The incident occurred at around 13:00 on Soi Buakhao. Emergency services from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Foundation rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a man who had fallen from a building under renovation. The victim, identified as Mr Thepphitak Waimat 41, was conducting maintenance work on an air-conditioning unit on the fifth-floor balcony when he is believed to have lost consciousness and fallen. In a stroke of luck, his fall was broken by the fourth-floor balcony, preventing him from plummeting to the ground. Due to the ongoing work, there was no internal access to the casualty. Rescue workers assessed the situation and quickly deployed a rope-rescue team and rappelled from the fifth floor to reach the injured man, who was precariously stuck on the narrow ledge. The complex operation took over an hour, with rescuers finally securing him in a rescue stretcher and lowering him to the third-floor balcony, from where he was safely evacuated. Mr Thepphitak sustained a serious head injury and was reported to be in critical condition due to significant blood loss. He was immediately transported to Pattaya Pathomkhun Hospital, where medical teams are closely monitoring his condition. Further investigations are underway. Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-05-24.

Cyber Police Dismantle Online Gambling Syndicate Picture courtesy of Matichon. Cybercrime authorities have successfully dismantled a significant online gambling operation known as 3AVIPBET, which was generating over 120 million baht annually. The operation involved a network of individuals across Thailand, including a key suspect apprehended at Suvarnabhumi Airport while attempting to flee to Hong Kong. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361617-cyber-police-dismantle-online-gambling-syndicate/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Cybercrime authorities have successfully dismantled a significant online gambling operation known as 3AVIPBET, which was generating over 120 million baht annually. The operation involved a network of individuals across Thailand, including a key suspect apprehended at Suvarnabhumi Airport while attempting to flee to Hong Kong. The Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) conducted a series of raids on 23 May, targeting properties in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Bangkok. The operation led to the arrest of five individuals, including a 27-year-old woman from Ang Thong who managed the website’s financial accounts. Authorities seized assets valued at over 7 million baht, including cash, Chinese currency, property titles, and electronic devices. The gambling website had been operational since 2020, with monthly transactions exceeding 10 million baht. The syndicate employed various tactics to evade law enforcement, such as using satellite internet connections and relocating operations to neighbouring countries. Despite these efforts, the government has intensified its crackdown on illegal online activities, leading to a significant decrease in reported cybercrimes. Authorities are continuing their investigation to identify and apprehend remaining members of the syndicate, both domestically and internationally. Citizens are encouraged to report any information related to online gambling activities via the 1441 Cyber Crime Hotline. This operation underscores Thailand’s commitment to combating cybercrime and illegal online gambling, aiming to protect the public from associated risks and ensure a safer digital environment. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-24.

Fall Death of 17-Year-Old in Pathum Thani Picture courtesy of Amarin In the early hours of May 23, a 17-year-old male was found dead after falling from the fifth floor of a dormitory building in Rangsit-Nakhon Nayok 20 Alley, Prathum Thani Province. The incident occurred around 00:30, prompting an immediate response from local police, emergency medical servicesand rescue volunteers. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361616-fall-death-of-17-year-old-in-pathum-thani/