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Picture courtesy of Matichon. Seven Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) sports officials have been arrested for allegedly falsifying 28 bus repair claims, causing a financial loss of 2.79 million baht to the state. The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), in collaboration with the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC), the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), the Office of the Auditor General (OAG), and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), launched an investigation into fraudulent procurement practices within the Sports Division of the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. Following their inquiries, officials arrested seven suspects at the Sports Division office in Din Daeng, Bangkok, identified as: 1. Damrong – Arrested under Corruption and Misconduct Court Warrant No. J.19/2568 2. Phumin – Arrested under Warrant No. J.20/2568 3. Komkrit – Arrested under Warrant No. J.21/2568 4. Patinya – Arrested under Warrant No. J.22/2568 5. Sirikan – Arrested under Warrant No. J.25/2568 6. Apinan – Charged but not yet detained 7. Suchawadee – Charged but not yet detained They are accused of misconduct in public office, falsifying official documents, and engaging in corrupt practices, in violation of Sections 157 and 162(1)(4) of the Criminal Code, as well as Section 172 of the Organic Act on Anti-Corruption (2018), in conjunction with Section 83 of the Penal Code. The fraud was uncovered following an audit by the Office of the Auditor General (OAG), which detected irregularities in bus repair contracts for five 45-50 seat air-conditioned buses under the Sports Division’s administration. The investigation found that between 2022 and 2024, officials had falsely approved payments for repairs that never took place. Initially, auditors identified 11 instances of fraudulent claims, but further investigations by the PACC and BMA revealed 12 additional cases. The BMA then uncovered five more, bringing the total to 28 fraudulent transactions amounting to 2,790,748 baht. The scheme allegedly involved forging repair invoices, inflating costs, and submitting false documentation for approval. The seven accused officials were responsible for handling procurement, forging price quotes, and authorising the fake transactions. On 22 November 2024, the BMA filed an official complaint with the Anti-Corruption Division of the CIB, leading to arrest warrants being issued. On 12 March 2025, the seven suspects voluntarily surrendered to the authorities. They have been formally charged, and investigations are ongoing. During initial questioning, all suspects denied the allegations. Authorities are expected to conduct further inquiries and legal proceedings as they gather additional evidence. -- 2025-03-13

Forest Ranger Attacked by Local Resident After Warning Against Illegal Burning Picture courtesy of Matichon. A national park ranger in Kanchanaburi was assaulted by a local resident after warning him against setting fire to the forest. The suspect fled the scene, and authorities have launched an investigation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354437-forest-ranger-attacked-by-local-resident-after-warning-against-illegal-burning/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A national park ranger in Kanchanaburi was assaulted by a local resident after warning him against setting fire to the forest. The suspect fled the scene, and authorities have launched an investigation. On 12 March, Khunakon Boonkuasong, head of Srinakarin Dam National Park, escorted Samart Klinhom, a 31-year-old park ranger stationed at Protection Unit SNR 8 (Nam Mut), to Sri Sawat Police Station to file a complaint against a local resident identified as Prakit. The complaint was lodged following an attack that left the ranger injured. The incident occurred on the night of 11 March, when Samart and three other rangers were patrolling the park to monitor hotspot areas for forest fires. They travelled by motorbike and concluded their patrol at approximately 21:00 before heading back to their base at Protection Unit SNR 8 (Nam Mut). Samart, who was riding behind his colleagues, noticed a suspicious individual appearing to set fire to the forest near Ban Nam Mut, Village 7, Dan Mae Chalaep Subdistrict, Sri Sawat District, Kanchanaburi, about 100 metres from the entrance to the ranger station. He stopped to warn the man, explaining that setting fires could cause harm to both the forest and the local community. Shortly after, as Samart continued towards the station, the suspect followed him on a motorbike. At a junction near the ranger station, the suspect deliberately rammed Samart’s motorbike, causing him to crash. The assailant then got off his vehicle and physically assaulted Samart, targeting his face. With his leg pinned under his fallen motorbike, Samart was unable to defend himself. After the attack, the suspect quickly fled into the darkness. Following the incident, Samart contacted his fellow rangers, who had already reached the station, for assistance. The village head of Ban Nam Mut, upon learning of the attack, also arrived to help and arranged for Samart to be taken to Thakadan Hospital for treatment. He sustained swelling and bruising around his mouth and eyes. Samart’s family expressed deep concern over the attack, as they were initially unaware of the assailant’s identity. However, after further investigation, authorities identified the suspect as Prakit and issued a summons for him to report to the police for questioning and legal proceedings. Samart has vowed to pursue the case to the fullest extent of the law. -- 2025-03-13

Disabled Man Escapes House Fire as THB 300,000 in Cash Burns A fire engulfed a home in Pattani province, leaving a disabled man scrambling to escape and destroying over THB 300,000 in cash. Authorities are investigating whether the blaze was caused by an electrical short circuit or arson. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354436-disabled-man-escapes-house-fire-as-thb-300000-in-cash-burns/

Pictures from responders. A fire engulfed a home in Pattani province, leaving a disabled man scrambling to escape and destroying over THB 300,000 in cash. Authorities are investigating whether the blaze was caused by an electrical short circuit or arson. Police Colonel Jeffrey Sailaomanakul, Superintendent of Mueang Pattanij Police Station, received a report on 12 March, of a severe house fire in Moo 3, Baraheoh subdistrict, and dispatched emergency responders. Fire crews from Pattani Municipality and Pu Yud Subdistrict Administrative Organisation arrived with four fire trucks to tackle the blaze. Upon arrival, firefighters found the fire consuming a raised wooden house alongside a single-storey concrete structure. The flames spread rapidly, but after 30 minutes, crews managed to bring the fire under control. The house, however, was completely destroyed. The house belonged to a woman named Mariam, who was at work at the time of the incident. Her younger brother, 30-year-old Ahamad, who has a physical disability affecting his legs, was alone inside when the fire broke out. Ahamad recounted that he had been sitting outside when he noticed smoke coming from inside the house. Moments later, flames erupted. Struggling due to his condition, he gathered his strength and scrambled away from the house, calling for help from neighbours, who assisted him before firefighters arrived. Once the fire was extinguished, Mariam and other residents searched through the debris for valuables. The homeowner revealed that over THB 300,000 in cash had been stored inside the house. Some money, which had been wrapped in fabric, was found partially burned, about 80% destroyed, while another bundle in an envelope suffered 30% damage. A significant portion of the cash was completely incinerated. The funds reportedly belonged to multiple family members who had pooled their savings, intending to deposit the money in a bank. Tragically, the fire struck before they could do so. Authorities have cordoned off the site to allow forensic experts to determine the cause of the fire. Initial findings suggest an electrical short circuit, though investigators have not ruled out the possibility of arson. The investigation remains ongoing. -- 2025-03-13

Health Official’s Car Plunges into Canal – Wife and Child Drown A crash in Tha Maka district, Kanchanaburi, claimed the lives of a woman and her six-year-old daughter after their car veered off the road and plunged into an irrigation canal. The driver, a 36-year-old health official, survived but was left in shock as his wife and child drowned before his eyes. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354435-health-official’s-car-plunges-into-canal-–-wife-and-child-drown/

Picture from responders. A crash in Tha Maka district, Kanchanaburi, claimed the lives of a woman and her six-year-old daughter after their car veered off the road and plunged into an irrigation canal. The driver, a 36-year-old health official, survived but was left in shock as his wife and child drowned before his eyes. The incident occurred at around midday on 12 March, along the canal-side road in Moo 6, Don Cha-em subdistrict. Police Lieutenant Colonel Charan Krajangjam, an officer from Tha Maka Police Station, received reports of a car submerged in the canal with people trapped inside. Emergency services, including divers from the Khun Rattanawut Foundation, were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, rescuers found a grey Honda Jazz, registered in Bangkok, submerged in the canal. Local village headman Jirayu Champathai and a passing motorist attempted to assist by breaking the car’s windows, successfully pulling the driver to safety using a rope. However, before further rescue efforts could be made, the car was swept away by the water. Divers later retrieved the vehicle, discovering the lifeless bodies of the driver’s wife, a 33-year-old woman, and their young daughter in the back seat. Inside the car, personal belongings, including toys, a water bottle, and a bag of clothes, were found. The vehicle itself was severely damaged. The bereaved father, identified as Nanchai, was inconsolable as he held the hands of his wife and daughter after their bodies were recovered. Friends of the deceased confirmed that he worked for the Ministry of Public Health and had travelled to Kanchanaburi for a meeting. He had taken an unfamiliar route, while colleagues who arrived earlier had used a different road. It is believed that unfamiliarity with the area contributed to the crash. Local leader Jirayu Champathai noted that the canal-side road has a history of frequent crashes, with multiple fatalities reported. He urged authorities to take urgent action to improve safety measures and prevent further tragedies. The police are continuing their investigation into the incident. -- 2025-03-13

Pickup Truck Smuggling Migrants Leads to 12km Chase in Kanchanaburi Picture courtesy of Workpoint. A dramatic police chase unfolded in Kanchanaburi after a man driving a pickup truck packed with illegal migrants attempted to evade a checkpoint. The pursuit lasted over 12 kilometres before immigration officers apprehended the suspect and his passengers. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354432-pickup-truck-smuggling-migrants-leads-to-12km-chase-in-kanchanaburi/

Picture courtesy of Workpoint. A dramatic police chase unfolded in Kanchanaburi after a man driving a pickup truck packed with illegal migrants attempted to evade a checkpoint. The pursuit lasted over 12 kilometres before immigration officers apprehended the suspect and his passengers. According to reports, on the evening of 11 March, Police Lieutenant General Phanumart Boonyaluck, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, was tipped off that a human smuggling operation was transporting illegal Myanmar migrants into Thailand via Sai Yok district, Kanchanaburi. In response, immigration police coordinated with military personnel from the Lat Ya Task Force, officers from Sai Yok Police Station, Border Patrol Police Unit 136, and local administrative authorities to set up a checkpoint on Highway 323 near Sai Yok Permanent Checkpoint in Tha Sao subdistrict. At approximately 18:30 officers spotted a suspicious pickup truck approaching from Sai Yok, heading towards Kanchanaburi city. When signalled to stop, the driver refused to comply, accelerating past the checkpoint and speeding off along Highway 323. Officers immediately pursued the vehicle as it fled towards Wang Krachae subdistrict. The high-speed chase continued for more than 12 kilometres before the driver finally pulled over near Ban Kaeng Sarawat School, realising he had no escape. The suspect, identified as 23-year-old Weerapong was immediately taken into custody. Upon inspecting the vehicle, officers discovered nine adult Myanmar nationals crammed inside the cabin, three men, six women, and two small children. The group was transported to the Sai Yok checkpoint for questioning. During interrogation, Weerapong admitted that he had been hired to transport the migrants from Tai Yok Yai subdistrict to a meeting point in Nong Bua subdistrict, Mueang Kanchanaburi district. He claimed he was paid 500 baht per person for the job and that another vehicle was scheduled to pick up the group upon arrival at the drop-off point. Meanwhile, the detained migrants revealed that they had illegally crossed into Thailand via Ban Phra Chedi Sam Ong in Sangkhla Buri district. They had travelled by boat and were transferred through multiple vehicles before reaching Tai Yok Yai, where Weerapong collected them for the final leg of the journey. They said their ultimate destination was Bangkok, where they planned to seek employment. The group had not yet agreed on the transport fees before being apprehended. Following the confessions, Weerapong was charged under Thailand’s immigration laws for “assisting or harbouring illegal migrants to evade arrest.” The Myanmar nationals were charged under the Immigration Act for “illegally entering and residing in Thailand.” Kanchanaburi Immigration Chief Police Colonel Korn Somkhanaey reaffirmed that the operation was part of a broader crackdown on illegal immigration, business violations, and criminal activities involving foreign nationals. The crackdown aligns with the Royal Thai Police’s national policy to prevent transnational crimes and safeguard public security. Authorities warned that cases like this pose significant risks, as high-speed chases can lead to accidents, endangering both officers and the public. Officers have been instructed to prioritise safety while carrying out their duties. Authorities have urged the public to report any suspected human smuggling activities, highlighting the severe legal consequences for those involved. -- 2025-03-13

Mystery Death: Woman Found Dead with Facial Bruises in Chonburi Apartment Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A 58-year-old woman has been found dead under mysterious circumstances in her room in Chonburi, with bruises on her face and blood on her head. Her husband claims she fell, but police have launched an investigation to determine the true cause of death. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354430-mystery-death-woman-found-dead-with-facial-bruises-in-chonburi-apartment/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A 58-year-old woman has been found dead under mysterious circumstances in her room in Chonburi, with bruises on her face and blood on her head. Her husband claims she fell, but police have launched an investigation to determine the true cause of death. At 22:00 on 11 March, officers from Don Hua Lo Police Station received a report of a death inside an apartment in Don Hua Lo subdistrict, Mueang Chonburi district. Police and Tri Khunatham Foundation rescue workers arrived at Room 305, where they found the body of Ms. Chi, 58, lying near the bathroom. She had severe facial bruising and blood covered her head and body. Authorities immediately cordoned off the area to conduct further examinations. Ms. A, the victim’s younger sister, told police that she had recently moved to Chonburi from Tak province with her sister and brother-in-law. The three had rented the apartment together while seeking work, and her sister had already secured a job. On the night of the incident, Ms. A recalled that her brother-in-law was lying on the bed, while her sister stepped onto the balcony. Moments later, she heard a loud thud and rushed outside to find her sister unconscious, bleeding from her ear. She immediately called for her brother-in-law to help carry Ms. Chi back inside. They tried to assist her and called emergency services, but medics arrived 30 minutes later, by which time she had already died. A neighbour, Ms. Tookie, confirmed that she had also recently moved from Tak and had planned to start work at the same company as the victim. She reported hearing a noise that sounded like a fall on the balcony but did not hear any arguments or disturbances before the incident. Mr. Wirat, 56, the victim’s husband, told police that he had been listening to music with headphones while his wife and her sister were in the bedroom. As he was dozing off, his sister-in-law suddenly ran to him, saying that his wife had slipped and fallen on the balcony. He rushed to help, carried her inside, and tried to stop the bleeding, but she lost too much blood and passed away before emergency responders arrived. Police have questioned both the husband and the victim’s sister and plan to conduct a thorough investigation. The body has been sent for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death, and authorities will proceed with legal actions as necessary. -- 2025-03-13

The FAA Category 2 is for the country, meaning the Thai civil aviation authorities (CAAT) have been assessed as not meeting ICAO safety standards. Europe safety ratings are covered by EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) and the UK by CAA (Civil Aviation Authority). The FAA downgraded Thailand to Category 2 (CAT2) after identifying 36 problems based on the ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation) standards, in 2015 and improvements and re inspections have taken place since. CAAT was formed in October 2015 from the split of the Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) into two separate agencies in response to the downgrading. The other body split from the DCA is the Department of Airports (DOA) which operates airports previously managed by the DCA.

Wild Elephant ‘Plai Sun’, Stranded on Island in Rayong, is Known for Attacking Locals Picture courtesy of SiamRath. Authorities in Rayong have confirmed that Plai Sun, a notorious wild elephant, is still currently stranded on an island in the Prasae Reservoir. The elephant, known for its aggression towards humans, has been residing on the island and has previously been involved in fatal attacks on locals. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354427-wild-elephant-‘plai-sun’-stranded-on-island-in-rayong-is-known-for-attacking-locals/

Picture courtesy of SiamRath. Authorities in Rayong have confirmed that Plai Sun, a notorious wild elephant, is still currently stranded on an island in the Prasae Reservoir. The elephant, known for its aggression towards humans, has been residing on the island and has previously been involved in fatal attacks on locals. The elephant, which is one of three known to be highly aggressive, has caused the deaths of two villagers from the Pa Yub Nai subdistrict in Wang Chan district. Local officials attempted to subdue the elephant with tranquilizers, but it managed to escape and swim across to the island, where it has since remained. The island, covering an area of around 50 rai, includes several smaller islands within the reservoir, providing the elephant with ample space to move around and forage for food. Although there have been reports claiming that Plai Sun is unable to swim across the reservoir, local authorities have clarified that the elephant is capable of swimming and has chosen to remain on the island, likely because it feels safe there. Since arriving, Plai Sun has not attacked any villagers that have visited the island, although its aggressive history remains a concern. Local officials providing an update, have urged people to continue to stay away from the area, especially near the island. Plai Sun has exhibited aggressive behavior in the past, including chasing a motorbike cart carrying villagers who were rubber tapping. Recently, it was reported that drone footage, which has drawn renewed attention to Plai Sun, showed the elephant raising its trunk, seemingly asking for help, but this claim has been disputed. Authorities believe that the elephant was merely startled by the drone and was attempting to protect itself. Despite being surrounded by limited food sources, such as grass and trees, which it has almost entirely consumed from its time on the island, local officials have been providing supplementary food to the elephant once a week. However, they have discouraged public donations for this effort. Authorities are also working to fit Plai Sun with a collar to monitor its movements more easily. The local authorities continue to monitor Plai Sun’s behaviour, ensuring that it remains isolated on the island and does not pose a danger to nearby communities. Residents are reminded to avoid approaching the area to prevent any potential encounters with the elephant. The situation highlights ongoing concerns regarding the increasing encounters between wild elephants and humans in Thailand, with authorities seeking long-term solutions to manage these animals safely. -- 2025-03-13

Two Men Drown While Spearfishing Under Surin Bridge at Night Two men drowned while spearfishing under the Huai Thap Than Bridge in the early hours of 12 March, as their friends were unable to save them. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354425-two-men-drown-while-spearfishing-under-surin-bridge-at-night/

Picture from responders. Two men drowned while spearfishing under the Huai Thap Than Bridge in the early hours of 12 March, as their friends were unable to save them. At approximately 02:30, Pol. Lt. Rangsan Uttarasri, an investigator from Non Narai Police Station, was notified of a drowning incident at the bridge in Ban Noi Khayung, Village 10, Kham Phong Subdistrict, Non Narai District, Surin Province. Authorities, including rescue teams, were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, police discovered the bodies of two victims, identified as Mr. Thongkhao, 61, and Mr. Eksit, 60, both residents of Village 8, Boet Subdistrict, Rattanaburi District, Surin. According to police investigations, the two men had gone fishing with three other friends from Ban Mok Tao, Village 8, Boet Subdistrict, Rattanaburi. The group had set out at around 18:00, on 11 March, using a small boat from the Ban Nong Luang water pumping station. They travelled south along the waterway and reached the bridge around 01:00. Mr. Thanapon, who was rowing the boat for the group, explained that when they arrived at the bridge, Thongkhao and Eksit dove into the water to fish beneath the bridge pillars but never resurfaced. Another friend, Mr. Thong, recounted the moment, saying, “We saw them disappear right in front of us, but we couldn’t do anything. The water was too deep, and there lots of rocks.” Following the incident, the three others immediately dove in to search for their missing friends. After some time, they located Thongkhao’s body trapped beneath a rock, under the bridge and pulled him ashore on the eastern bank, but it was too late. They then rushed to alert local villagers and called emergency services. Shortly after, rescue teams from Non Narai District, along with a diving unit, arrived at the scene. After an extensive search, they recovered Eksit’s body and transported both victims to Non Narai Hospital for autopsy examinations to determine the exact cause of death. Authorities urge spear fishermen to exercise extreme caution, avoid diving in unfamiliar locations, and always carry emergency equipment. -- 2025-03-13

Gunman Sneaks Into Home, Cuts Power, and Shoots Owner Dead in Phatthalung Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A gunman crept into a house through the back entrance, cut the power, and shot the owner dead in a chilling execution-style murder in Phatthalung province. The victim, a 38-year-old man was shot three times and died at the scene. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354424-gunman-sneaks-into-home-cuts-power-and-shoots-owner-dead-in-phatthalung/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A gunman crept into a house through the back entrance, cut the power, and shot the owner dead in a chilling execution-style murder in Phatthalung province. The victim, a 38-year-old man was shot three times and died at the scene. At 00:05 on March 12, officers from Khuan Khanun Police Station, led by Pol. Lt. Athipat Maisuk, were alerted to the shooting of a 38-year-old man, identified as Mr. Wutthichai, at his home in Moo 1, Makok Nuea Subdistrict, Khuan Khanun District. The police and emergency responders rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, officers found Mr. Wutthichai’s body slumped against a wall inside the house. He had been shot three times, once in the head and twice in the chest, with a .38 calibre firearm. Investigators recovered a bullet casing near the body as evidence. The victim’s 37-year-old wife, Ms. Piyaporn, told police that she had been asleep in a bedroom while her husband was sitting in the house’s main room. She heard the electrical switch being turned off, followed by her husband shouting, “Why did you turn off the lights?” Moments later, three gunshots rang out. When she rushed out, she found her husband had been shot dead. Neighbours and relatives revealed that Mr. Wutthichai had been released from prison two years ago after serving time for drug-related offences. Since then, he had kept to himself, and those close to him were unaware of any ongoing conflicts. However, police investigations uncovered a history of drug involvement, firearm-related offences, and violent behaviour, including past incidents where he had destroyed property and disturbed his neighbours. Authorities suspect that his past criminal activities may have led to his murder. Police believe the gunman was someone who knew the victim well. Investigators are now questioning the victim’s wife and acquaintances to determine the exact motive and identify the perpetrator. Authorities are actively pursuing leads to bring the gunman to justice. -- 2025-03-13

Fire Breaks Out at Phai Tan Temple Crematorium in Bangkok A fire broke out at the crematorium of Phai Tan Temple in Phaya Thai district during the morning of 12 March, prompting an emergency response from local fire crews. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354422-fire-breaks-out-at-phai-tan-temple-crematorium-in-bangkok/

Pictures from responders. A fire broke out at the crematorium of Phai Tan Temple in Phaya Thai district during the morning of 12 March, prompting an emergency response from local fire crews. The incident occurred at approximately 11:25 at Wat Phai Tan, located at 15 Phahonyothin Road, Phaya Thai, Bangkok. The temple, which regularly hosts religious ceremonies, experienced a fire originating inside the crematorium. The blaze affected an area of the roof, primarily damaging the heat insulation around the furnace/incinerator. Firefighters from Dusit Fire and Rescue Station arrived promptly at the scene and managed to extinguish the flames using water hose-line and cutting away parts of the roof and insulation. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. According to initial assessments, the fire was likely caused by excessive heat accumulation from the cremation furnace, which led to ignition in the surrounding insulation material, which some of which had fallen and covered the furnace, then spreading to the underside of the roof. Authorities have urged temple staff to remain vigilant and conduct regular safety inspections of cremation facilities to prevent similar incidents in the future. Further investigations will be carried out to confirm the exact cause of the fire. Local officials reassured the public that the situation has been controlled and that there was no significant structural damage to the temple premises. -- 2025-03-13

Mentally Ill Man Attacks Woman with Machete Over Alleged Theft A 49-year-old woman is in critical condition after being attacked with a machete on 12 March, by a man suffering from mental illness, who accused her of stealing rubber scraps. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354421-mentally-ill-man-attacks-woman-with-machete-over-alleged-theft/

Picture from responders. A 49-year-old woman is in critical condition after being attacked with a machete on 12 March, by a man suffering from mental illness, who accused her of stealing rubber scraps. Police Lieutenant Sanon Kaewsorn and officers from the Srinakarin Police Station’s rapid response unit were called to a roadside drink stall on the Khuan Din So–Tonton Road in Moo 5, Ang Thong Subdistrict, Srinakarin District, Phatthalung. Upon arrival, officers found a pool of blood next to a stone table near the drink stall. A plastic bottle containing white liquor was discovered under the table. The injured woman, identified as Ms. Thip Nudam, had sustained severe machete wounds to her head and back. Medics from Ang Thong Municipality rushed her to Srinakarin Hospital for emergency treatment. Investigators identified the attacker as Mr. Jay, 38, who lives next to the drink stall. According to eyewitnesses, Ms. Thip had been drinking white liquor at the stone table when Mr. Jay approached her, wielding a machete. He allegedly accused her of stealing rubber scraps from his property. When she denied the accusation, he struck her three times with the machete before fleeing the scene on a motorcycle. Mr. Jay’s 68-year-old mother confirmed her son was responsible for the attack, explaining that he suffers from a psychiatric condition and is on medication. She claimed he had been angered by Ms. Thip’s alleged theft of rubber scraps from their family’s plantation. However, Ms. Thip’s husband, Mr. Teerayut, 50, denied the accusation, stating that his wife had taken the rubber scraps from their own land. He acknowledged that she had a history of stealing rubber in the past but insisted that, on this occasion, she was wrongly accused. He added that local leaders had already investigated the matter and confirmed that no theft had occurred. Village headman Mr. Athikom Makchuay noted that Ms. Thip had a reputation for theft, which had caused problems for the community. He speculated that Mr. Jay, upon seeing her near his home, became enraged and attacked her. He also confirmed that Mr. Jay’s family had been providing him with ongoing medical treatment for his psychiatric condition. Police have arrested Mr. Jay and seized the machete used in the attack. He has been handed over to investigators at Srinakarin Police Station for legal proceedings. The case is under further investigation. -- 2025-03-13

Motorbike Rider Killed in Collision with Pickup Truck Near Pattaya A motorcyclist lost his life following a collision with a pickup truck on the night of 11 March. The incident was captured on CCTV and occurred at approximately 23:00 near the entrance of the market on Soi 7, Moo 1, Huay Yai Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354420-motorbike-rider-killed-in-collision-with-pickup-truck-near-pattaya/

Picture from responders. A motorcyclist lost his life following a collision with a pickup truck on the night of 11 March. The incident was captured on CCTV and occurred at approximately 23:00 near the entrance of the market on Soi 7, Moo 1, Huay Yai Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province. At the scene, a white Isuzu D-Max pickup truck with registration plates from Rayong was found in the middle of the road with damage to its left side. The driver, 49-year-old Mr. Weerasak Mulsombat, was unharmed. Approximately 10 metres from the truck, a red Honda Wave 125i motorcycle, without a license plate, was severely damaged. Nearby, the lifeless body of 37-year-old Mr. Somchai Kumdee, the motorbike rider, was found, having been thrown from his bike upon impact. According to Mr. Weerasak, he was driving towards the market entrance and had signalled to turn right when the motorcycle, travelling at high speed, collided with the left side of his vehicle. The impact caused Mr. Somchai to be thrown from his motorcycle, landing near a noodle shop. Mr. Weerasak immediately called emergency services for assistance. Police have secured evidence from the scene and are questioning Mr. Weerasak further at Huay Yai Police Station. The body of Mr. Somchai has been taken to Patmakhun Hospital and authorities are in the process of contacting his family. Legal procedures are ongoing, and the investigation into the cause of the crash is continuing. -- 2025-03-13

Uncle Shoots Nephew Dead Over Dirty Dishes in Chiang Rai Picture courtesy of Amarin. A 58-year-old man shot his nephew dead while he was eating at the dinner table, reportedly enraged that the younger man had not washed his dishes. The suspect, identified as Mr. Wai, allegedly tried to feign ignorance after the incident by buying alcohol and acting as though nothing had happened. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354418-uncle-shoots-nephew-dead-over-dirty-dishes-in-chiang-rai/