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Chinese and South Korean Nationals Arrested in Pattaya in Transnational Crime Crackdown Picture courtesy of พัทยา จุดเกิดเหตุ Immigration authorities have arrested two foreign nationals wanted in connection with serious international crimes, as part of a crackdown on transnational criminal activity Pattaya city. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1367100-chinese-and-south-korean-nationals-arrested-in-pattaya-in-transnational-crime-crackdown/

Picture courtesy of พัทยา จุดเกิดเหตุ Immigration authorities have arrested two foreign nationals wanted in connection with serious international crimes, as part of a crackdown on transnational criminal activity Pattaya city. On 17 July, a coordinated operation led by Police Lieutenant General Panumas Boonyalak, Commissioner of Thailand’s Immigration Bureau, resulted in the arrests of Mr Sun, a 39-year-old Chinese national and Mr Sung, a 60-year-old South Korean national. The high-profile operation involved several senior police officials and was part of a broader initiative to disrupt organised crime networks operating in and around Pattaya. Mr Sun was apprehended at a private residence in the Huai Yai area of Banglamung District. According to authorities, he was wanted for drug-related offences and the illegal distribution of electronic cigarettes. When police arrived, he attempted to flee by climbing a utility pole to get onto the roof but was swiftly captured. It was also discovered that Mr Sun had overstayed his visa by more than 15 days, prompting immediate deportation proceedings under immigration law. In a separate raid, officers arrested Mr Sung at a rented room on Sukhumvit Pattaya Soi 71. He is the subject of an active Interpol red notice, accused of masterminding the trafficking of crystal methamphetamine into South Korea. Investigations revealed that Sung had orchestrated a plot to smuggle 180 grams of the drug hidden in food containers through air cargo to Incheon International Airport. Had the shipment reached its destination, it could have generated more than 18 million South Korean won on the illicit market. Police say that Mr Sung had been residing illegally in the kingdom for over two years, using forged documentation and operating under the radar. He is believed to be a high-ranking figure within an organised crime syndicate based in Seoul, continuing to direct criminal operations while evading arrest in his home country. Senior officials involved in the operation included Pol. Maj. Gen. Piti Nithinonteset, Pol. Maj. Gen. Panthana Nuchanart, and Pol. Maj. Gen. Chairit Anurit, with ground-level operations led by Chonburi Immigration Chief Pol. Col. Napassaphong Khositsuriyamanee. An Immigration Bureau spokesperson stated: “These individuals were not merely hiding; they were actively coordinating transnational criminal activities from within Thailand. This operation sends a strong message that the kingdom will not serve as a sanctuary for international criminals.” Both men remain in custody while extradition proceedings are prepared. Authorities have also hinted that further arrests may follow as part of the ongoing campaign to dismantle criminal networks exploiting Thailand’s hospitality and open borders. The crackdown highlights the country’s deepening cooperation with international law enforcement and reinforces Thailand’s commitment to safeguarding public security Adapted by Asean Now from พัทยา จุดเกิดเหตุ 2025-07-18

Early Morning Fire Guts Bangkok Spa in Siam Square Pictures courtesy if Amarin An early morning fire tore through a spa in Bangkok’s busy Siam Square shopping district on 18 July, sending plumes of thick black smoke into the sky and causing significant damage to a four-storey commercial building. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1367098-early-morning-fire-guts-bangkok-spa-in-siam-square/

Pictures courtesy if Amarin An early morning fire tore through a spa in Bangkok’s busy Siam Square shopping district on 18 July, sending plumes of thick black smoke into the sky and causing significant damage to a four-storey commercial building. The blaze broke out shortly before 06.45 on the fourth floor of a spa located in Siam Square Soi 3, off Rama I Road in Pathum Wan district. Emergency services were alerted via the 199 fire hotline and units from Banthat Thong Fire Station, supported by volunteers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, firefighters were met with intense flames and heavy smoke pouring from the top of the structure. Fearing the fire could spread to neighbouring buildings in the densely packed commercial zone, crews quickly deployed two external water hose-lines and a roof mounted monitor, before gaining entry to the fire effected areas, with internal hose-lines and battling the blaze for over 45 minutes before bringing it under control. Initial reports suggest that three adjoining shop units were affected by the fire, with the top floor suffering the heaviest damage. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported. Authorities have not yet confirmed the cause of the fire, which remains under investigation. Police and fire officials are reviewing CCTV footage and will inspect the building’s remains once the structure has cooled and is deemed safe to enter. The incident has caused disruption to nearby businesses, with part of Siam Square Soi 3 temporarily cordoned off for safety and investigative purposes. Siam Square is one of Bangkok’s most popular retail and leisure areas, known for its spas, boutiques, cafes and proximity to major universities. While the fire was swiftly contained, the event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety and response in high-density commercial zones. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-07-18

Suvarnabhumi Airport Conducts Full-Scale Emergency Drill Pictures courtesy of Kaoded Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) has conducted a full-scale emergency exercise as part of its 2025 fiscal year preparedness plan. The drill, codenamed SEMEX–25, aimed to test the airport’s readiness to respond to high-risk incidents in accordance with global safety standards. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1367095-suvarnabhumi-airport-conducts-full-scale-emergency-drill/

Pictures courtesy of Kaoded Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) has conducted a full-scale emergency exercise as part of its 2025 fiscal year preparedness plan. The drill, codenamed SEMEX–25, aimed to test the airport’s readiness to respond to high-risk incidents in accordance with global safety standards. The exercise commenced at 09:00 on 17 July, at the airport’s main administration building, presided over by Mr Kittipong Kittikachorn, General Manager of Suvarnabhumi Airport and Mr Theerachai Attanavanich, Board Member of Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT). The event saw participation from 12 government and private agencies. Mr Kittipong stated that the primary objective of the exercise was to strengthen operational coordination between agencies and assess the emergency response procedures in the event of a serious incident during aircraft refuelling. The scenario tested the airport’s ability to respond quickly and efficiently, with passenger safety placed at the highest priority. The simulation involved a mock incident in which a ground vehicle crashed into a hydrant pit before skidding into aircraft flight SM025, operated by the fictional Semex Airways, at stand S126. The impact caused fuel leakage and a subsequent fire, with the aircraft still occupied by passengers and crew. The incident required an immediate full emergency response, containment and evacuation. The drill tested various aspects of crisis management including emergency notification, fire control, medical assistance, command and control, inter-agency communication and logistical coordination. All operations were required to meet the safety protocols of the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) and comply with International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards. Participating agencies included the Samut Prakan Provincial Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office, Immigration Division 2, Suvarnabhumi Airport Police Station, Aeronautical Radio of Thailand Ltd., Thai Airways International Plc, Bangkok Aviation Fuel Services Plc (BAFS) and Thai Aviation Fuel Plc. Each played a critical role in simulating a realistic and unified emergency response. “This drill reflects our airport’s ongoing commitment to maintaining world-class safety standards,” said Mr Kittipong. “Thanks to the dedication of all involved agencies, the exercise ran smoothly and achieved its objectives. It reinforces our ability to manage unforeseen incidents swiftly and effectively.” Suvarnabhumi Airport conducts such emergency simulations annually to ensure systematic and efficient crisis preparedness. The exercise not only enhances internal readiness but also builds public and international confidence in the airport’s capability to provide a safe and secure travel environment. Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-07-18

Road Rage Incident in Chumphon Ends in Gunfire Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A heated road rage incident erupted into violence in central Chumphon on the afternoon of 17 July, resulting in one man being shot and the alleged gunman arrested shortly after a police manhunt. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1367076-road-rage-incident-in-chumphon-ends-in-gunfire/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A heated road rage incident erupted into violence in central Chumphon on the afternoon of 17 July, resulting in one man being shot and the alleged gunman arrested shortly after a police manhunt. The altercation occurred around 15:00 at the Clock Tower intersection on Praminmakkha Road, just 300 metres from Chumphon District Office. The incident followed a confrontation between the drivers of a white Toyota Fortuner and a red Isuzu pickup truck operating as a local songthaew. According to police reports, the dispute began when the songthaew allegedly cut in front of the Fortuner as both vehicles approached the intersection. In response, the Fortuner’s driver, identified as 31-year-old Mr Suriya, sounded his horn. The pickup truck then braked sharply, causing the Fortuner to rear-end it. The situation escalated quickly. Mr Suriya exited his vehicle to confront the pickup truck driver, identified as 38-year-old Mr Jennarong. A physical altercation ensued, during which Mr Jennarong allegedly pulled a .22 calibre pistol and fired three shots, one of which struck Mr Suriya in the left arm. Mr Kriangsak, a 49-year-old passenger in the Fortuner, attempted to intervene, but was also threatened. Mr Suriya was taken to Chumphon Khet Udomsakdi Hospital and is reportedly in stable condition. Ms Kanyapat, who was also travelling in the Fortuner with her baby niece managed to record the pickup’s registration plate. She told police that the attacker fled the scene heading toward Pak Nam Chumphon. Police quickly mobilised a manhunt, examining CCTV footage and identifying the suspect vehicle, a yellow-plated public transport pickup, registration 10-1257 Chumphon, operating on the Chumphon Fishing Port–Pak Nam Chumphon route. The vehicle had recently been sold to Mr Jennarong. Officers traced the suspect to a house in Hat Sai Ri subdistrict, where Mr Jennarong was arrested without resistance. A search of the premises revealed the firearm used in the shooting, with three spent rounds and six live rounds in the magazine. During questioning, Mr Jennarong admitted to the shooting, claiming he acted in self-defence after allegedly being attacked by both Mr Suriya and Mr Kriangsak. He stated that he initially fired a warning shot into the ground before aiming two further shots at Mr Suriya’s legs, intending only to wound. Mr Jennarong also admitted the pistol belonged to his uncle and was not registered in his name. Police have charged Mr Jennarong with attempted murder, illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, carrying a firearm in a public place without permission and discharging a firearm in a public area without justifiable cause. He has been remanded in custody pending further legal proceedings. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-07-18

Drunk Driver Kills Waste Collector in Nakhon Phanom Crash Picture courtesy of Amarin A municipal waste collector was killed in the early hours of the morning after being struck and crushed by a speeding pickup truck, allegedly driven under the influence of alcohol. The victim’s body was torn in two upon impact. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1367075-drunk-driver-kills-waste-collector-in-nakhon-phanom-crash/

Picture courtesy of Amarin A municipal waste collector was killed in the early hours of the morning after being struck and crushed by a speeding pickup truck, allegedly driven under the influence of alcohol. The victim’s body was torn in two upon impact. The incident occurred at around 03:00 on 17 July, near a dormitory close to a shopping mall on the bypass road between Ban Noi Nong Khem and Ban Tha Khwai in the Nong Yat subdistrict of Mueang District, Nakhon Phanom. CCTV footage captured the horrifying moment when a speeding pickup truck collided with a municipal waste truck that had stopped at the roadside while workers were collecting bins. Mr Kittirot “Piak” Nanta, 45, a municipal waste collector with Nakhon Phanom Municipality, was hit with such force that his body was severed at the waist. A second collector suffered minor injuries. The pickup truck driver reportedly lost control after sideswiping a motorcycle, veered off the road and slammed into Mr Kittirot, pinning his severed body against the truck’s metal lift rail. The motorcyclist, identified only as “Wit”, 23, sustained hip and leg injuries, while the pickup driver, “Kai”, 46, was found with both legs broken and is receiving treatment at Nakhon Phanom Hospital. He is suspected of being under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash, but police are awaiting medical confirmation of testing. The driver of the waste truck, Mr Watcharin, 47, told reporters that he had pulled over to allow three workers to collect bins when the incident occurred. He described hearing a loud crash before realising Mr Kittirot had been struck and killed instantly. Police and forensic officers from Nakhon Phanom are continuing their investigation, with formal questioning of the involved parties to take place once they are physically and emotionally able. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-07-18

Thai Employers Blow Whistle on Extortion Ring Targeting Cambodian Migrant Workers Picture courtesy of Khaosod Thai employers have presented key evidence to authorities in an unfolding investigation into a large-scale extortion and money laundering scheme that allegedly preyed on Cambodian migrant workers attempting to renew their work permits in Thailand. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1367074-thai-employers-blow-whistle-on-extortion-ring-targeting-cambodian-migrant-workers/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod Thai employers have presented key evidence to authorities in an unfolding investigation into a large-scale extortion and money laundering scheme that allegedly preyed on Cambodian migrant workers attempting to renew their work permits in Thailand. The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) is leading the inquiry, which implicates both Thai and Cambodian officials in a corrupt network exploiting vulnerable workers through the country’s newly implemented online work permit renewal system. The Extortion Scheme The alleged scam took root following a Ministry of Labour announcement on 26 November 2024, stating that all work permit renewals would shift to an online platform ahead of a 13 February 2025 expiration deadline for many permits. However, Cambodian workers were reportedly informed by intermediaries that the system would not process their applications unless they paid an unofficial fee of 2,500 baht per person. Those who refused were denied essential documentation required for medical checks, insurance and visa renewals. Employers Submit Evidence On 15 July 2025, Ms Nilubon Pongpayom, founder of the Facebook group Group of Employers Using Migrant Workers, met with DSI Director-General Pol. Lt. Col. Yutthana Praedam to hand over further evidence. The documents revealed a money trail involving Cambodian officials, with clear records of who received payments and how much was paid. Earlier, on 3 July, the DSI raided AA Advance Service offices in Bangkok’s Ram Inthra area, a known hub in the scheme. Following the operation, almost 100,000 pending applications from Cambodian workers were abruptly approved, without requiring the 2,500 baht payment. However, those who had already paid were reportedly subjected to further extortion ranging from 300 to 500 baht for additional visa-related procedures. Investigation Developments So far, the DSI has questioned 14 witnesses, including account holders allegedly used as “money mules”, officials and private sector representatives. Investigators have uncovered hundreds of millions of baht in suspicious financial transactions and are now tracing funds back to Cambodian government contacts. Although Thai Ministry of Labour officials have denied any involvement, the DSI continues to review financial records and witness statements. Due to the cross-border nature of the fraud, investigators are considering designating the case as transnational organised crime. Systemic Failings Exposed One employer, Ms Chitsanucha Charuphan, revealed that she was instructed to pay 5,000 baht per worker to Cambodian agencies to ensure workers’ names appeared on official permit lists. She refused, citing legal concerns. Yet, following the DSI intervention, the system began operating without issue, indicating that no such fee was ever legitimately required. “We call on the authorities to establish and enforce clear legal standards,” Ms Chitsanucha said. “There’s no consistency. The rules keep changing and even government hospitals are refusing health checks, citing disagreement with Ministry of Labour directives.” The case underscores ongoing issues with Thailand’s migrant worker documentation procedures, including opaque fee structures, arbitrary enforcement and insufficient oversight of the renewal system. Related articles: https://aseannow.com/topic/1366178-dsi-uncovers-cross-border-bribery-money-laundering-network-exploiting-cambodian-workers/ https://aseannow.com/topic/1365662-dsi-raids-migrant-work-permit-firms-in-alleged-bribery-scandal-worth-millions-of-baht/ Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-07-18

Dowry Rental Business Owner Defrauded of 5 Million Baht in Investment Scam Picture courtesy of Workpoint. A 30-year-old businesswoman who runs a dowry rental service has filed a police complaint after being allegedly defrauded of 5 million baht in a scam involving a fake investment pitch to a so-called “capital investor.” The suspect reportedly paid a rental fee of 200,000 baht but then used the full sum to repay personal debts rather than for its stated purpose. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1367073-dowry-rental-business-owner-defrauded-of-5-million-baht-in-investment-scam/

Picture courtesy of Workpoint. A 30-year-old businesswoman who runs a dowry rental service has filed a police complaint after being allegedly defrauded of 5 million baht in a scam involving a fake investment pitch to a so-called “capital investor.” The suspect reportedly paid a rental fee of 200,000 baht but then used the full sum to repay personal debts rather than for its stated purpose. Ms. Teerayada, the complainant, lodged the case at Sriracha Police Station, accusing 35-year-old Ms. Porntip of embezzlement after she allegedly misused funds intended for an investment demonstration. The incident has sparked public attention due to its unusual nature and the involvement of a dowry-related financial service. According to investigators, on 12 July, Ms. Porntip approached Ms. Teerayada’s business with a request to “rent” 5 million baht, claiming it was to present to a potential investor as proof of liquidity in order to secure a major business partnership. The agreement was finalised with a scheduled money handover on 16 July and the suspect paid a rental fee of 205,000 baht upfront. However, after receiving the 5 million baht, Ms. Porntip reportedly diverted the entire sum to repay a debt owed to a man named Mr. Amphol, an agent claiming to represent another individual, Mr. Pratipol, allegedly the investor in question. The transaction took place inside Sriracha Police Station, with the suspect asserting that a senior police officer witnessed the handover. Mr. Phattharawatseth, the victim’s partner and co-owner of the dowry rental business, expressed frustration and suspicion over the suspect’s behaviour. “She returned from the police station without the money and simply said the investor had taken it. That’s when we realised we’d been scammed.” In her defence, Ms. Porntip gave inconsistent statements during questioning, at one point claiming she was also deceived and had no intention of committing fraud. However, police determined that there were grounds to detain her on charges of embezzlement. Authorities are currently seeking to clarify the role, if any, of the so-called investor and the police officer allegedly present during the incident. The investigation is ongoing, with police gathering further evidence and questioning all parties involved. Legal proceedings will follow once the facts are fully established. Adapted by Asean Now from Workpoint 2025-07-18

CCTV Captures Suspect Stealing Road Warning Light Batteries in Phayao Picture courtesy of Kaoded. Police in Phayao Province are pursuing a suspect caught on CCTV stealing four solar-powered batteries used to operate road warning lights at a highway construction site. The theft, which occurred on Highway 1202, has caused disruption to safety measures and prompted an active police investigation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1367070-cctv-captures-suspect-stealing-road-warning-light-batteries-in-phayao/