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Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 38-year-old man has been arrested after attempting to rob a bank in Buriram province with a kitchen knife, claiming he was driven to the act out of desperation to pay for his mother’s life-saving kidney treatment. Police in Non Suwan district responded swiftly to an emergency alarm from the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC) branch in Non Suwan, Buriram, where the suspect, later identified as Mr Somporn, was detained by security staff before officers arrived at the scene. Mr Somporn had entered the bank carrying a backpack and wielding a kitchen knife. He was overpowered by the bank’s security guard, Mr Somphop Chansirisuk, 59 and male staff members after a brief struggle. No injuries were reported. According to police, the suspect arrived on a Honda motorbike without a registration plate and carried no other weapons apart from the knife. He was taken into custody and brought to Non Suwan Police Station for questioning. During the interrogation, Mr Somporn admitted to the attempted robbery. He claimed it was not premeditated and that he had only decided to carry out the act earlier that day. He explained that his mother suffers from kidney disease and requires weekly dialysis treatments, each costing approximately 20,000 baht. He said his family could not afford the treatment and that the government’s universal healthcare scheme, known as the “gold card,” did not cover dialysis. Mr Somporn’s father, Mr Khamman, 72, confirmed his wife’s illness and explained that the family had been preparing to raise funds for treatment. However, after being informed by neighbours that the 20,000 baht fee would only cover one session and with dialysis needed weekly, they abandoned the plan. He said he was unaware that his son had taken such drastic action. Mr Somphop, the security guard praised for his quick thinking, said that he had become suspicious of the man upon entering the bank due to his behaviour, wearing a hat and a mask. When asked to remove them, Mr Somporn left, only to return shortly afterwards. Mr Somphop had already alerted staff and prepared to act in case of an incident. “When he pulled out the knife and said, ‘This is a robbery,’ I grabbed the hand holding the knife and dragged him outside,” Mr Somphop recounted. “We wrestled for a few minutes before another male employee came to help me subdue him.” Following his arrest, Mr Somporn underwent a urine test which returned positive for methamphetamine. He now faces charges of attempted robbery and drug use. Mr Somyot Yosachan, director of the BAAC in Buriram province, visited the branch to personally commend Mr Somphop for his bravery and effective response during the incident. Authorities are continuing their investigation, and Mr Somporn remains in custody pending legal proceedings. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-06-20

On June 18th, the DGCA stated, that the inspection of Air India's Dreamliners did not find safety deficiencies. Aircraft and maintenance were found in compliance with existing safety standards.

Police Arrest 23 Illegal Chinese Workers Masquerading as Tourists in Pattaya & Rayong Pictures courtesy of ที่นี่ พัทยา Tourist Police have arrested 23 Chinese nationals working illegally, under the guise of tourists, following a crackdown on illegal foreign labour by the Royal Thai Police. The workers, who were found on construction sites in Rayong and Pattaya, were earning between 20,000 and 40,000 baht per month without valid work permits. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364100-police-arrest-23-illegal-chinese-workers-masquerading-as-tourists-in-pattaya-rayong/

Pictures courtesy of ที่นี่ พัทยา Tourist Police have arrested 23 Chinese nationals working illegally, under the guise of tourists, following a crackdown on illegal foreign labour by the Royal Thai Police. The workers, who were found on construction sites in Rayong and Pattaya, were earning between 20,000 and 40,000 baht per month without valid work permits. The operation, launched under the directive of Police General Kittirat Phanphet, Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, is part of an intensified effort to rid the country of foreign nationals violating labour and immigration laws. The raids were led by the Tourist Police Bureau under the supervision of Lieutenant General Saksira Phueka-am, with senior support from Major General Phongsayam Meekhantong, Major General Krit Warit, and Major General M.L. Santhikorn Worawan. Rayong Construction Site Raid – 11 Arrests In the first operation, Tourist Police investigators received a tip-off about illegal foreign workers at a construction site in Map Yang Phon subdistrict, Pluak Daeng district, Rayong province. The site, operated by a company whose name was withheld, was reportedly employing several undocumented workers. Upon inspection, police discovered 11 Chinese nationals engaged in construction work. All had entered Thailand on tourist visas/exemptions and were earning around 25,000 baht per month. They were promptly arrested and charged under the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 for engaging in employment without permission and under the Foreign Workers Management Royal Decree B.E. 2560 (2017), which prohibits foreign nationals from working without a permit. Pattaya South Site – 12 Detained The second case involved a coordinated raid on a construction project located near South Pattaya Soi 1. Following an investigation, officers obtained a search warrant from Pattaya Provincial Court (Warrant No. 124/2568, dated 17 June 2025). On 18 June, Tourist Police executed the warrant and searched the premises, uncovering 12 Chinese nationals working illegally. These individuals also entered Thailand as tourists and were found to be earning between 20,000 and 40,000 baht monthly, depending on their roles at the site. They were similarly charged with working without authorisation and for violating immigration law. All suspects were informed of their legal rights and charges in accordance with due process and reportedly confessed to the offences during the arrest proceedings. They have since been handed over to Pattaya City Police Station for further legal action. Ongoing Crackdown on Illegal Foreign Labour Tourist Police have reiterated their commitment to continued enforcement against illegal foreign workers operating under false pretences. The public is urged to report any suspicious activities via the 24-hour Tourist Police hotline at 1155. This operation reflects an increasingly firm stance by authorities against the misuse of tourist visas for employment purposes, particularly within the construction sector. Authorities stress that legal employment in Thailand requires strict compliance with immigration and labour laws, including valid work permits issued by the Ministry of Labour. Adapted by Asean Now from ที่นี่ พัทยา 2025-06-19

Authorities Raid Illegal Gambling Den in Nonthaburi, Arrest 54 Suspects Picture courtesy of Matichon. In a crackdown on illegal gambling, a combined force of local administrators and police officers raided a clandestine Dragon-Tigergambling den in Bang Yai district on the afternoon of 18 June, arresting 54 individuals and seizing substantial evidence. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364099-authorities-raid-illegal-gambling-den-in nonthaburi-arrest-54-suspects/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. In a crackdown on illegal gambling, a combined force of local administrators and police officers raided a clandestine Dragon-Tigergambling den in Bang Yai district on the afternoon of 18 June, arresting 54 individuals and seizing substantial evidence. The operation was led by Mr. Kiattisak Tongsiri, Governor of Nonthaburi, along with Pol. Maj. Gen. Kittithanet Thanananthaweesin, Chief of Nonthaburi Provincial Police and senior officers from Bang Yai Police Station. The team also included district officials and members of the Bang Yai Volunteer Defence Corps. At approximately 15.00 the authorities stormed a large, air-conditioned warehouse, approximately one rai in size, located in Soi Kaeo-In, Moo 5, in the Saothonghin subdistrict. The site was surrounded by a corrugated iron fence over three metres high to conceal the operation. Officers scaled the perimeter and entered the building, where they discovered dozens of gamblers engaged in a game of Dragon-Tiger, a fast-paced card game popular in illegal circles. Startled by the raid, many attempted to flee but were quickly apprehended, as all exit points had been secured. A total of 54 suspects were arrested, comprising 15 Thai men, 31 Thai women, and 8 foreign workers, both male and female. Seized at the scene were gambling paraphernalia and 218,340 baht in cash. The governor stated that the raid followed intelligence received around 14.00, regarding ongoing illegal gambling in the area. Following verification, he ordered immediate action. “This raid is in line with the province’s policy to suppress gambling operations, which often lead to economic damage, social problems and debt among citizens,” Mr. Kiattisak explained. Authorities are now reviewing CCTV footage to determine how long the operation had been running and to verify the exact nature and extent of the gambling activities. Initial reports indicate the presence of at least two gambling tables dedicated to Dragon-Tiger. This is not the first such incident in Bang Yai. Officials confirmed that similar operations had been discovered in the area previously, though this particular venue had not yet been linked to a specific duration of operation due to conflicting accounts from those arrested. Mr. Kiattisak warned, “Let this be a clear message to anyone considering opening gambling dens in Nonthaburi. We have informants across every district and will take firm action, especially against organisers and operators.” Pol. Maj. Gen. Kittithanet echoed the sentiment, stating that this was the second raid on an illegal gambling venue in Bang Yai within a single week. He praised the collaboration between police and local administrators, reiterating that such activities defy national police directives and Ministry of Interior policy. He added that if any financial links to the operation’s organisers are discovered, the authorities are prepared to pursue charges under the Anti-Money Laundering Act. “All involved parties will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” he concluded. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-19

Policeman’s Son Steals Father’s Gun, Shoots Man in Phatthalung Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 30-year-old man was shot and injured on the morning of 18 June, after being attacked at his home in Phatthalung province by the son of a police officer. The shooting, believed to be drug-related, took place in Moo 7, Charat subdistrict, Kong Ra district. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364097-policeman’s-son-steals-father’s-gun-shoots-man-in phatthalung/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 30-year-old man was shot and injured on the morning of 18 June, after being attacked at his home in Phatthalung province by the son of a police officer. The shooting, believed to be drug-related, took place in Moo 7, Charat subdistrict, Kong Ra district. Police from Kong Ra Police Station responded to the incident at approximately 06:10 and found the victim, identified as Mr Theeraphong, also known as “Naw”, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds to his leg. He was rushed to Kong Ra Hospital by family members. The alleged shooter, Mr Ariphong or “Boom”, aged 30, was swiftly apprehended by police shortly after fleeing the scene on a motorcycle. CCTV footage showed him wearing a white shirt, shorts and a motorcycle helmet and armed with a 9mm handgun. He was seen opening fire on the victim from outside the house before fleeing. Investigators led by Pol. Lt. Col. Pakorn Chaiprom and forensic officers recovered 13 spent 9mm shell casings at the scene. Initial findings confirmed the weapon used had been stolen from Mr Ariphong’s father, a serving police officer with the Phatthalung Provincial Police. Mr Ariphong, who has a known history of drug involvement, was reportedly incoherent when detained. Witnesses said he arrived at the victim’s home appearing intoxicated and speaking unintelligibly before opening fire without warning. Police are continuing to question the suspect, who has yet to provide a coherent account of his actions. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to determine the exact motive behind the attack. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-19

14-Year-Old Boy Killed After Rival Throws Rock During Motorbike Chase in Ang Thong Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 14-year-old boy has died following a violent altercation involving a group of teenagers on motorcycles in Ang Thong province. The victim, identified as Bodin or “Earth,” was struck in the face by a rock thrown by a rival and later succumbed to his injuries in hospital. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364096-14-year-old-boy-killed-after-rival-throws-rock-during-motorbike-chase-in-ang-thong/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 14-year-old boy has died following a violent altercation involving a group of teenagers on motorcycles in Ang Thong province. The victim, identified as Bodin or “Earth,” was struck in the face by a rock thrown by a rival and later succumbed to his injuries in hospital. Police were alerted to the incident shortly before noon on 18 June. Pol. Lt. Tharakhon Sakunkulpiyathewan, an investigator from Mueang Ang Thong Police Station, responded to reports of a serious assault on the Phothi Phra-Tha Ruea Road in Moo 5, Sala Daeng Subdistrict, opposite a local restaurant on the inbound side of the road. Upon arrival, emergency responders from the Ang Thong Rescue Association were found providing first aid to the critically injured teenager. He was rushed to Ang Thong Hospital with severe facial injuries but was later pronounced dead. According to initial witness statements, Bodin had been riding pillion on a friend’s motorcycle when they were pursued by a group of teenage rivals. During the chase, one of the assailants threw a rock, hitting Bodin in the face. The impact caused him to fall from the motorcycle and sustain life-threatening injuries. Police have already identified a suspect and are now working to apprehend them for questioning. Investigators are interviewing Bodin’s friends and other witnesses to gather more evidence and piece together the full sequence of events. Legal proceedings are underway in line with the law. Bodin’s mother, 43-year-old Mrs. Wasana, shared that her son had initially gone out to see the scene of a previous road crash, involving a friend who had died. On the way back, he encountered the rival group. His friend was driving, while Bodin was seated behind. As they attempted to make a U-turn, one of the rivals hurled a stone that struck Bodin directly in the face, causing the injuries that ultimately led to his death. Retired police officer Lt. Col. Sam-ang Ruekdee, 63, Bodin’s grandfather, recounted how the boy had left the house with friends earlier that day. “I only found out he had been hit and injured when it was already too late,” he said somberly. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-19

Brazilian Man Arrested at Phuket Airport on Traffic Violation Warrant Picture courtesy of Phuketinsta. A 35-year-old Brazilian national, whose name was not disclosed, was arrested by Thai immigration officers at Phuket International Airport on the morning of 15 June, after it was discovered that he was the subject of an outstanding arrest warrant related to a traffic offence. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364095-brazilian-man-arrested-at-phuket-airport-on-traffic-violation-warrant/

Picture courtesy of Phuketinsta. A 35-year-old Brazilian national, whose name was not disclosed, was arrested by Thai immigration officers at Phuket International Airport on the morning of 15 June, after it was discovered that he was the subject of an outstanding arrest warrant related to a traffic offence. The arrest took place at approximately 10:30, in the international departures area of the airport, where the man was preparing to leave the country. Officers from the Immigration Bureau, conducting standard routine checks as part of their border security operations, identified the individual through the immigration watchlist system. According to officials, the man was wanted for breaching The Road Traffic Act. While specific details of the offence were not disclosed, authorities confirmed that the matter was serious enough to warrant legal action, resulting in the issuance of an arrest warrant. Following his detention, the suspect was taken into custody and transferred to Phuket Provincial Court, where he will face legal proceedings in accordance with the law. Thai immigration authorities have reminded all foreign nationals to ensure that they have no pending legal issues or unresolved charges before attempting to enter or depart the Kingdom. Immigration said that routine checks at airports and border crossings often reveal individuals who may be unaware that they are the subject of legal action. Travellers who are concerned about their legal status in Thailand are advised to contact legal advisors or local immigration support services. Adapted by Asean Now from Phuketinsta 2025-06-19

District Chief Raids Krabi Temple, Arrests Monk with Drugs and Firearm Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A monk from a well-known temple in Krabi was arrested in his monastic quarters after being found in possession of methamphetamine tablets and a firearm, following an anti-drug operation led by the district chief. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364094-district-chief-raids-krabi-temple-arrests-monk-with-drugs-and-firearm/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A monk from a well-known temple in Krabi was arrested in his monastic quarters after being found in possession of methamphetamine tablets and a firearm, following an anti-drug operation led by the district chief. Mr Preecha Sa-ingthong, the district chief of Mueang Krabi, led a special task force from the district administration in a late-night operation on 17 June 2025. The raid resulted in the arrest of 45-year-old Mr Sanchai, known as Phra M, a monk residing at a temple in the Sai Thai subdistrict. During a search of his kuti (monk’s quarters), officers discovered three methamphetamine pills hidden inside a toothpaste box, along with a .32-calibre handgun and a single bullet. The monk admitted to obtaining the drugs from a man identified as Mr Ekaphop 39, an employee at a local hotel. Acting on this information, authorities raided the hotel premises and found 1,784 methamphetamine tablets and 36.9 grams of hidden in a drinking water container under a housekeeper’s work desk. A digital scale was also seized. Both men were charged with possession of Category 1 narcotics (methamphetamine and crystal methamphetamine) and face legal proceedings. They reportedly confessed during initial questioning. Phra M was immediately defrocked in coordination with the temple’s abbot following his arrest. Authorities also conducted urine drug tests on other monks at the temple, resulting in the discovery that one additional monk tested positive for narcotics. He was taken into custody for rehabilitation treatment. The operation highlights ongoing concerns about drug trafficking networks operating within unexpected sectors of society, including religious institutions. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-19

14-Year-Old Boy Dies After Family Starves for Weeks, Surviving Only on Tap Water Picture courtesy of Khaosod. An incident has shocked the community of Pak Kret in Nonthaburi province after a 14-year-old boy was found dead in his home, having reportedly succumbed to prolonged starvation. His parents, found severely emaciated and barely conscious, were rushed to hospital for emergency treatment. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364092-14-year-old-boy-dies-after-family-starves-for-weeks-surviving-only-on-tap-water/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. An incident has shocked the community of Pak Kret in Nonthaburi province after a 14-year-old boy was found dead in his home, having reportedly succumbed to prolonged starvation. His parents, found severely emaciated and barely conscious, were rushed to hospital for emergency treatment. Rescue volunteers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation were alerted to the case, after Mr Yongyosakorn 44, contacted authorities to report that his son, Master Itthikorn, had died at their home. His wife, Ms Ananya 45, was also found lying weak and unable to speak, apparently suffering from extreme malnutrition. Emergency responders, accompanied by officers from Pak Kret Police Station, arrived at the family’s two-storey concrete home, where they were met with a grim scene. The residence, surrounded by overgrown vegetation, showed signs of long-term neglect. Inside, in the middle of the living area, the body of young Itthikorn was found lying on the floor, reduced to skin and bones. There were no signs of physical trauma or struggle. His mother was discovered nearby in a similarly frail condition, while Mr Yongyosakorn was seated, also appearing severely weakened. Both surviving parents were immediately taken to hospital. The victim’s uncle told reporters that he had received an early-morning call from his younger brother, informing him that his nephew had passed away. The uncle rushed to the scene and contacted rescue services. He explained that the couple had not been employed for years, having lived off an inheritance from a land sale. In recent months, however, his brother had begun calling for occasional help with household bills, including a recent request for assistance with an overdue electricity bill, which the uncle paid. The family, he added, had been living in relative isolation. “I didn’t know things had gotten this bad. He said they hadn’t eaten in nearly a month. They were surviving on just tap water,” he said, visibly shaken. A first responder at the scene confirmed the father’s account, stating that all three family members appeared to be in an advanced state of starvation. “They were frail, weak and had clearly not had proper nutrition for a long time,” the officer said. “It’s not yet clear why the family chose not to seek help.” Neighbours reported that the family kept to themselves and rarely interacted with others. One neighbour recounted that food delivery riders used to frequently bring meals to the house, but that had stopped over a month ago. “After that, I never saw them leave the house. Only once in a while, I’d see the boy sitting alone outside,” the neighbour said. The boy’s body is now awaiting further examination by the Institute of Forensic Medicine to determine the exact cause of death. Meanwhile, social workers and authorities are expected to investigate the circumstances surrounding the family’s situation, including whether more could have been done to prevent the loss of a young life. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-19

Satun Hosts Second Public Hearing on New Airport Project to Boost Tourism & Connectivity Picture courtesy of Kaoded. The Department of Airports held its second public hearing on the proposed construction of a new airport in Satun Province. The meeting, which took place at the Aphaianuraj 1 Conference Room of the Sinkiatiburi Hotel in Mueang District, brought together local officials, project consultants, and a wide range of stakeholders to discuss the project’s design and environmental impact assessment (EIA). Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364091-satun-hosts-second-public-hearing-on-new-airport-project-to-boost-tourism-connectivity/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. The Department of Airports held its second public hearing on the proposed construction of a new airport in Satun Province. The meeting, which took place at the Aphaianuraj 1 Conference Room of the Sinkiatiburi Hotel in Mueang District, brought together local officials, project consultants, and a wide range of stakeholders to discuss the project’s design and environmental impact assessment (EIA). Mr. Thanapat Denburana, Chief of the Satun Provincial Office, presided over the session, which aimed to gather input from government agencies, local residents and other concerned parties. The hearing focused on the design of runways, taxiways, aircraft parking bays, terminal buildings and supporting infrastructure, as well as on the EIA report and proposed mitigation measures. The new airport is expected to significantly enhance transportation options in Satun, aligning with the “Air-Sea-Land” concept that integrates travel by air, sea and land. This infrastructure development is seen as a key driver in boosting tourism and facilitating easier access to the province. Speaking at the event, Mr. Chatchai Kasantikoon, a senior civil engineer with the Department’s Construction and Maintenance Division, along with representatives from the consulting firm responsible for the project, outlined the details of the development plan and gathered public feedback to refine and improve the proposal. A central theme of the project is the integration of Satun’s local identity into the airport’s architectural design. The terminal building will be inspired by the manta ray, symbolising the richness of the province’s marine ecosystem, while also incorporating elements such as the traditional buffalo kite and patterns from the region’s Down Buding textile. The design will also reflect features of the Satun UNESCO Global Geopark and the colours of the Andaman Sea, aiming to create a structure that resonates with the area’s natural and cultural heritage. This new airport project is a part of the Department of Airports’ wider strategy to enhance regional connectivity and economic development, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and community participation. Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-06-19

UPDATE Criminal case file against local politician submitted to Attorney-General over election day assault on border police Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Crime Suppression Division (CSD) has officially handed over a substantial case file against local councillor Siradon Plai-duang, known as “Sor Golf” and nine others to the Attorney-General’s Office, in connection with the violent assault on a border patrol police officer at a polling station during recent elections. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360410-son-of-prominent-mp-sparks-violence-at-songkhla-polling-station/page/2/#findComment-19882156

UPDATE Criminal case file against local politician submitted to Attorney-General over election day assault on border police Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Crime Suppression Division (CSD) has officially handed over a substantial case file against local councillor Siradon Plai-duang, known as “Sor Golf” and nine others to the Attorney-General’s Office, in connection with the violent assault on a border patrol police officer at a polling station during recent elections. Pol Gen Thanayut Wuttijaratsathorn, Special Advisor to the Royal Thai Police, led the investigative team in submitting over 2,000 pages of evidence to Mr Sanjai Chanphong, Director-General of the Department of Criminal Litigation, at the Office of the Attorney-General on Ratchadaphisek Road, Bangkok. According to police, the evidence clearly indicates that Mr Siradon played a key role as the orchestrator of the attack, issuing instructions to associates who executed the assault, despite his absence from the scene. Authorities assert that the suspects worked in a coordinated fashion, amounting to a planned and deliberate attack on a public official performing official duties. “The case file strongly supports the charge of conspiring to assault a law enforcement officer in the line of duty,” Pol Gen Thanayut told reporters. “Although Sor Golf was not physically present at the polling station, his involvement as the mastermind is substantiated through witness testimonies and corroborating evidence.” One suspect remains at large, with police having already secured an arrest warrant. The fugitive is also implicated in a separate case involving illegal online gambling operations under the jurisdiction of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau. To date, police have issued warrants for 20 individuals in the gambling case and have successfully apprehended six. Mr Sanjai Chanphong, speaking after receiving the case file, confirmed it would be promptly assigned to prosecutors for review ahead of the suspects’ detention deadline. He acknowledged the public interest surrounding the case and said the formation of a special working group would be considered if deemed necessary. The case, which has a statute of limitations of 10 years, continues to draw significant public and media attention amid wider concerns about electoral violence and political interference in law enforcement. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-19

Over 1.3 Million Cartons of Illegal Cigarettes Seized - Fines Almost 1.8 Billion Baht Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Excise Department has revealed the results of a sweeping crackdown on illegal tobacco smuggling across Thailand’s eastern provinces, uncovering over 1.3 million cartons of untaxed cigarettes in the first eight months of the fiscal year. The estimated fines related to the seizures have now almost reached an astonishing 1.8 billion baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364090-over-13-million-cartons-of-illegal-cigarettes-seized-fines-almost-18-billion-baht/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Excise Department has revealed the results of a sweeping crackdown on illegal tobacco smuggling across Thailand’s eastern provinces, uncovering over 1.3 million cartons of untaxed cigarettes in the first eight months of the fiscal year. The estimated fines related to the seizures have now almost reached an astonishing 1.8 billion baht. Deputy Finance Minister Paopoom Rojanasakul announced the figures during a visit to the Eastern Excise Region 2 office. He noted that the illegal trade includes smuggling via both land and sea, with distribution occurring through various channels including private courier services and online platforms. One recent operation, triggered by a tip-off, led excise officers to a logistics hub in Si Racha district, Chonburi province. There, they discovered 22,760 cartons of untaxed cigarettes, with estimated fines totalling 21.4 million baht. The goods were immediately seized. Authorities have identified two primary smuggling routes: 1. By sea, using boats to bring contraband into coastal provinces such as Chonburi, Rayong, and Samut Prakan. 2. By land, through natural border crossings, particularly along the eastern frontier, with smugglers using vehicles to transport illegal goods into the kingdom. To combat the growing illicit trade, the Excise Department has ramped up collaboration with various agencies, including the Royal Thai Army, Royal Thai Police, Department of Provincial Administration, Customs Department, and the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Centre. Partnerships with private logistics firms have also been strengthened to improve intelligence-sharing on smuggling networks and online sales activity. From October 2024 to May 2025, the Excise Department’s Region 2 and its local branches recorded a total of 2,898 enforcement cases, an increase of 13% compared to the previous year. These cases generated a combined estimated fine of over 1.8 billion baht. The majority of cases (61.5%) were tobacco-related, followed by alcohol-related offences (27.5%). Breakdown of Seized Items: • Tobacco: 1,783 cases, fines totalling over 1.79 billion baht, with 1,332,148 cartons of foreign cigarettes and 116,768 cartons of domestic cigarettes seized. • Alcohol: 799 cases, fines of 1.9 million baht, with over 15,000 litres of liquor seized. • Fuel and oil products: 28 cases, 166,000 litres confiscated. • Motorcycles: 87 cases, 215 bikes seized. • Playing cards: 32 cases, 2,775 decks seized. • Cars: 39 cases, 254 vehicles seized. • Miscellaneous goods: 130 cases, including various untaxed items. The Excise Department affirmed its commitment to tightening border controls and breaking illegal supply chains, particularly those exploiting online and courier-based distribution systems. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-19

Over 30 Baby Pythons Found Crawling on Power Cables and Fences in Lampang Village Picture courtesy of Amarin. Residents of a village in Mae Moh district, Lampang province, were left alarmed and frightened after more than 30 baby pythons were discovered slithering across power pole cables and the fences of local homes. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364089-over-30-baby-pythons-found-crawling-on-power-cables-and-fences-in-lampang-village/

Picture courtesy of Amarin. Residents of a village in Mae Moh district, Lampang province, were left alarmed and frightened after more than 30 baby pythons were discovered slithering across power pole cables and the fences of local homes. The incident occurred in the village of Chalong Ratch, located in Sop Pad subdistrict. Local municipal officials from Mae Moh’s disaster prevention and mitigation team were alerted early in the morning of 18 June, by residents who had spotted the snakes coiled and crawling along the guy wires attached to electricity poles and nearby household fences. Upon arriving at the scene, officials were met with an eerie sight, dozens of small reticulated pythons writhing across the area. The discovery sent some concern through the neighbourhood, with locals wary of the potential presence of a much larger adult snake nearby. The team quickly began a careful search of the area. After a thorough sweep, they successfully captured over 30 juvenile snakes, which were placed into sacks for safe relocation. However, there was no sign of the mother python, whose whereabouts remain unknown. Officials believe the snakes may have recently hatched nearby, possibly from a hidden nest in dense vegetation or an underground burrow. While reticulated pythons are non-venomous, their size and strength, especially as adults, can pose a danger to pets and small animals. All captured snakes are expected to be released back into a suitable natural habitat, away from residential areas. Local authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any further sightings, particularly if a larger python is spotted. Meanwhile, locals continue to monitor the area in case the mother snake reappears. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-06-19

Motorcyclist Killed in High-Speed Collision with Lorry in Bang Lamung Picture courtesy of TMN. A 21-year-old man has died following a crash between his large motorcycle and a 10-wheel lorry at the Guan Yu intersection on the Crocodile Farm–Nong Ket Yai Road in Nong Pla Lai, Bang Lamung district. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364088-motorcyclist-killed-in-high-speed-collision-with-lorry-in-bang-lamung/