Georgealbert

Motorcyclists Injured After Falling Cable Causes Crash in Samut Prakan A man and a woman were injured in Samut Prakan after their motorcycle was struck by a fallen communication cable, causing them to crash. The incident occurred on the Old Sukhumvit Road in Bang Pu Subdistrict, Mueang District, on morning of 7 March. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354009-motorcyclists-injured-after-falling-cable-causes-crash-in-samut-prakan/

Fire Breaks Out at Cannabis Warehouse in Bang Phli A fire broke out in the early hours of March 8 at a cannabis cultivation warehouse in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan. Firefighters battled the blaze for several hours due to the building’s sealed environment and the presence of chemicals used in cannabis production. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354008-fire-breaks-out-at-cannabis-warehouse-in-bang-phli/

Industry Minister Orders Closure of Four Recycling Factories in Samut Sakhon Over Pollution Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Minister of Industry, Ekanat Promphan, has ordered the immediate suspension of four recycling factories in Samut Sakhon’s Maha Chai district following serious environmental violations. The decision comes after complaints from local residents in Na Khok subdistrict, who reported severe pollution affecting their livelihoods, particularly salt farming, which has been impacted by contamination turning their salt black. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354007-industry-minister-orders-closure-of-four-recycling-factories-in-samut-sakhon-over-pollution/

Picture from responders. Authorities in Ratchaburi have launched an investigation after a man’s body was discovered floating in a river near the famous Wat Chong Lom temple. The unidentified male, believed to be aged between 30 and 40, was found on the morning of 8 March, at approximately 07:50. Local police were alerted to the discovery and immediately responded to the scene along with forensic officers, medical staff, and volunteers from the Prachanukul Ratchaburi Foundation. Upon arrival, they found the victim’s body face down, bloated from decomposition. The body was floating near the temple’s stairs. According to the preliminary investigation, the victim was not wearing any clothes and showed no signs of physical trauma or injuries. However, the body was severely bloated, emitting a strong smell. The eyes were notably swollen, and the abdominal and left leg tissue appeared to have been consumed by aquatic creatures. Authorities discovered a Honda Wave motorbike, with the ignition key still in place, parked on land nearby. The motorcycle, bearing Ratchaburi registration plates, was left unattended for several days, and no one came forward to claim it. Nearby, other personal items were found, including a black helmet, a polo shirt, a phone charger, a book, and a plastic box containing over ten fireworks rounds. A monk at Wat Chong Lom revealed that the motorcycle had been parked for at least four days, but they were unaware of its owner. One local resident, who found the body, reported seeing the man frequently visit the area, sometimes riding a tricycle, often appearing disoriented, and occasionally getting into the water. However, they could not confirm if the body belonged to the same individual. Investigators have since sent the body to the Ratchaburi Forensic Institute for a thorough autopsy. They are also conducting DNA tests to identify the deceased and check if any reports of missing persons have been filed in nearby police stations. Additionally, they are investigating the link between the victim and the found motorcycle to understand the circumstances leading to his death. Authorities are continuing their investigation. -- 2025-03-09

Picture from responders. Authorities in Pattaya, Chonburi, have confirmed the discovery of the body of a 40-year-old woman who went missing after swimming in the sea near Walking Street on the southern end of Pattaya Beach. At approximately 10:05 on March 8, Lieutenant Colonel Chanun Kesornbua, Deputy Investigator at Pattaya City Police Station, was alerted to a missing person report. The woman, later identified as Natthakan Sukrint, a bar employee from Nakhon Ratchasima, was last seen running into the water to swim but quickly disappeared. A search operation was immediately initiated, with Pattaya’s water rescue team and volunteers from the Sawang Boriboon Foundation rushing to the scene. After approximately 30 minutes of searching, the woman’s body was found submerged in the sea. Her body was retrieved from the water and brought ashore. Upon examination, no signs of physical injury or foul play were found. Investigations revealed that Natthakan had been with friends at a bar on Walking Street before finishing work. Her friends had taken her to the beach, where she had requested to swim in the sea. Despite warnings about the depth of the water, plus that she was intoxicated, she entered and was later reported missing. Her friends alerted the authorities when they could not locate her, prompting the rescue operation. Pattaya police have ruled out foul play and have transferred the body to the Police Hospital’s Forensic Institute for a full autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident and are awaiting the results of the autopsy. -- 2025-03-09

Chinese Admins and Programmers Arrested for Running Illegal Gambling Website Picture courtesy of Matichon. Authorities have arrested four Chinese nationals suspected of managing and developing an illegal online gambling website. The suspects, who allegedly earned over 1.6 million baht per month, were detained in a home in the Lat Phrao area of Bangkok. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354006-chinese-admins-and-programmers-arrested-for-running-illegal-gambling-website/

Man Found Dead in Car in Lamphun, Police Investigating Cause of Death Lamphun police are investigating the death of a man whose body was discovered on the morning of 8 March, inside a car in Li district. Officers believe he had been deceased for at least five hours before being found. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354005-man-found-dead-in-car-in-lamphun-police-investigating-cause-of-death/

Petrol Station Worker Dies in Motorcycle Crash with Parked Oil Tanker A 26-year-old petrol station worker was tragically killed when his motorcycle crashed into the back of a parked oil tanker in Samut Songkhram. The accident occurred just 100 metres from his workplace as he was rushing to start his shift. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354003-petrol-station-worker-dies-in-motorcycle-crash-with-parked-oil-tanker/

Picture from responders. A man and a woman were injured in Samut Prakan after their motorcycle was struck by a fallen communication cable, causing them to crash. The incident occurred on the Old Sukhumvit Road in Bang Pu Subdistrict, Mueang District, on morning of 7 March. Emergency services from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation were dispatched to the scene following reports of the accident. Upon arrival, they found the injured individuals, identified as Mr. Chotanan Sirichaiawatkul, 34, and Ms. Prowalee Srithongsap, 31. Both received initial medical treatment at the scene before being transported to Chularat 5 Hospital. Nearby, rescue workers discovered a damaged blue Honda motorcycle, registered in Bangkok, lying in the middle of the road. A broken communication cable was also found sprawled across the roadway. According to eyewitnesses, the crash was caused when a passing lorry became entangled with overhead cables, pulling them down onto the road just as the motorcycle was passing. The rider were caught in the wires and lost control of their vehicle, resulting in the crash. Local police from Bang Pu Police Station have launched an investigation into the incident. Authorities are coordinating with the responsible telecommunications provider to determine accountability and ensure necessary legal action is taken. -- 2025-03-09

Picture courtesy of NRECD. Authorities in Sa Kaeo have arrested two individuals and seized the remains of protected wildlife, including Asiatic black bear parts, in the border area. The operation was carried out by the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Division (NRECD) in collaboration with Border Patrol Police and forestry officials. The arrests took place on March 7 at approximately 11:30 near a checkpoint between markers 14 and 15, just 20 metres from Sri Phen Road in Ban Khlong Phaeng, Thap Sadet Subdistrict, Ta Phraya District. The operation followed a tip-off about illegal possession of wildlife remains. The suspects were identified as Chaiyan Inprasong, 62, and Surasak Yimklim, 36, both residents of Thap Sadet. They were found in possession of: • Six kilograms of Asiatic black bear parts, including two front paws and two hind paws. • A full Sunda pangolin, weighing nine kilograms. Both individuals were charged with illegal possession and trade of wildlife under Thai conservation laws. Authorities confirmed that the suspects confessed during questioning. They were subsequently taken into custody and handed over to investigators at Tap Thai Police Station in Ta Phraya District for legal proceedings. The confiscated wildlife remains have been documented and placed under the care of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), Region 1 (Prachin Buri), for safekeeping in accordance with regulations. Illegal wildlife trade remains a serious issue in Thailand, with authorities continuing to crack down on those involved in the trafficking and possession of endangered species. -- 2025-03-09

Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Minister of Industry, Ekanat Promphan, has ordered the immediate suspension of four recycling factories in Samut Sakhon’s Maha Chai district following serious environmental violations. The decision comes after complaints from local residents in Na Khok subdistrict, who reported severe pollution affecting their livelihoods, particularly salt farming, which has been impacted by contamination turning their salt black. Ekanat stated that investigations revealed these factories were responsible for heavy metal emissions, airborne soot, and wastewater discharge, which seeped into the surrounding salt fields. There were also reports of strong odours, particularly at night when industrial furnaces were in operation. In response, a special inspection team, led by Thitiphat Chotidechachainan, head of the minister’s working group, and Ekniti Romyanont, an inspector from the Department of Industrial Works, conducted on-site checks. They found evidence of improper waste management practices and violations of environmental regulations. Notably, one of the factories had previously been ordered to suspend operations but had resumed activities illegally. The four factories facing immediate closure are: 1. Zheng Qiu (Thailand) Co., Ltd. 2. Kijrungreungthavorn Co., Ltd. 3. Amornprasert Co., Ltd. 4. Wichanee Industrial Site. Authorities found multiple violations, including failure to obtain permits for waste transportation and improper handling of industrial by-products. Consequently, all four factories have been ordered to suspend operations and rectify the issues within 60 days without the possibility of an extension. Minister Ekanat emphasised that the government would not tolerate repeated violations and is considering stricter regulations on pollution control in the recycling and waste management industries. Further investigations uncovered additional illegal activities at each factory: • Zheng Qiu (Thailand) Co., Ltd. was found to be operating without proper authorisation and illegally dumping industrial plastic waste and wastewater outside its premises. • Kijrungreungthavorn Co., Ltd. was found to have unsafe factory conditions, improperly installed machinery, and evidence of illegal industrial waste burial. • Amornprasert Co., Ltd. was found to have buried approximately 35,000 tonnes of suspected aluminium dross, a hazardous industrial by-product. • Wichanee Industrial Site was found to have buried approximately 30 tonnes of the same hazardous waste. None of the factories had obtained permission to transport hazardous waste, and all were found to be illegally storing or burying it on their premises, constituting unauthorised possession of hazardous substances. Authorities have seized over 35,000 tonnes of suspected aluminium dross and sent samples for scientific analysis. If confirmed as hazardous waste, the factories will face legal action for unauthorised possession of hazardous materials, which carries a penalty of up to two years in prison, a fine of up to 200,000 baht, or both. Additionally, the factories will be required to properly dispose of the hazardous waste in compliance with environmental safety regulations. Further legal action will be taken if they fail to comply. Thitiphat Chotidechachainan urged other businesses to adhere strictly to environmental laws, warning that the government would continue to enforce strict measures to protect both the environment and public health. This crackdown marks a significant step in Thailand’s efforts to tackle industrial pollution and reinforce stricter environmental compliance in the recycling sector. -- 2025-03-09

Picture from responders. A fire broke out in the early hours of March 8 at a cannabis cultivation warehouse in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan. Firefighters battled the blaze for several hours due to the building’s sealed environment and the presence of chemicals used in cannabis production. At approximately 03:50 emergency services received reports of a fire at the Choopy-Choo warehouse, owned by Diamond Trichome Co., Ltd., located in Soi Wat Plad Priang, near Bang Na-Trat Road. Several firefighting units responded to the scene, including from Bang Kaeo Municipality, along with a team of volunteer firefighters. The warehouse was a single-story, climate-controlled facility used for regulated cannabis cultivation. Inside, firefighters found a significant amount of fertilisers and chemicals associated with cannabis production, which posed additional hazards during firefighting operations. Firefighters successfully brought the flames under control using water hose-lines, but due to the building’s enclosed structure, thick smoke continued to fill the premises. Ventilation proved to be a significant challenge, requiring multiple PPV (positive pressure ventilation) fans to be deployed at various points, to clear the smoke and circulate fresh air. The controlled environment of the facility, designed to regulate temperature and humidity for cannabis cultivation, extended the time required to fully extinguish the fire and ensure the safety of the structure. Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the blaze, and an investigation is underway to assess the extent of the damage and any potential violations of safety regulations. No injuries have been reported so far. -- 2025-03-09

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Authorities have arrested four Chinese nationals suspected of managing and developing an illegal online gambling website. The suspects, who allegedly earned over 1.6 million baht per month, were detained in a home in the Lat Phrao area of Bangkok. The arrests were part of a wider crackdown on illegal foreign operations in Thailand, ordered by National Police Chief Pol Gen Kittirat Phanphet. Pol Col Milin Pianchang, Superintendent of Division 1, Tourist Police Bureau (TPB), and Pol Lt Col Natthaphon Khonlak, Deputy Superintendent of Division 1, TPB, led the operation. Acting on intelligence received in February, police discovered that a group of Chinese nationals was living in a rented house in Soi Lat Phrao 87. They were reportedly unemployed but paying 46,000 baht per month in rent, raising suspicions of illegal activities. Further investigations confirmed their involvement in online gambling, leading police to obtain a search warrant from the Criminal Court. On 7 March, officers from Division 1, TPB, led by Pol Lt Col Nimit Janyalak, raided the property. They arrested four Chinese nationals and seized four computers and eight mobile phones. The suspects were charged with, “Organising, promoting, or advertising gambling activities without official authorisation.” The accused were taken to Huai Khwang Police Station for further legal proceedings. Police examined the confiscated computers and found evidence linking the suspects to a gambling website. The four individuals reportedly worked as administrators and programmers, managing and maintaining the platform for other Chinese clients. They were allegedly paid around approximately 1.6 million baht per month for their services. Additionally, they received a one-time payment of 1 million baht per completed gambling software program. Pol Col Milin urged the public to be cautious when engaging in online financial transactions, particularly through social media or suspicious links. He advised people to verify the legitimacy of websites before entering personal or banking details to avoid falling victim to online scams. Authorities are continuing their investigation to uncover further links in the illegal gambling network. -- 2025-03-09

Picture courtesy of Matichon. The mayor of Nong Prue Subdistrict in Samut Prakan province has defended the installation of solar-powered streetlights designed in the shape of aeroplanes, despite recent, renewed criticism from social media users who argue that the project is a waste of funds. The mayor insisted on 7 March, that the local community is satisfied with the initiative and that the concerns voiced online are irrelevant. Adum Klinphuang, the mayor of Nong Prue Subdistrict, clarified that the project to install these aeroplane-shaped streetlights had been in the works for about four to five years. The project is part of a larger road development initiative in collaboration with Suvarnabhumi Airport, which involves the construction of a road leading to the airport that has been underway for two years. The total cost of the road upgrade, which includes the installation of the aeroplane-shaped streetlights, is nearly 400 million baht. The streetlights themselves account for approximately 20 million baht of the budget. While some social media users have expressed concerns about the frequency of the streetlights and the potential waste of public funds, Mayor Adum was dismissive of the criticisms. “Those who are criticising may not be from the area. I’m not concerned because the people here are happy with the project,” he said. “As a subdistrict administrative organisation, we focus on developing our own area. If the locals are happy, that’s enough for us.” The streetlights are designed to serve as a symbol of the subdistrict, which has a longstanding association with aviation. The ongoing road development project, spanning more than two kilometres, will see the installation of additional aeroplane-shaped lights. Currently, the authorities are in the process of hiring contractors to carry out the next phase of the work. Moreover, the mayor revealed that there are plans for a further installation of 156 aeroplane-shaped streetlights in areas of the subdistrict, specifically in villages 2 and 3, with a project cost set at 17 million baht. One local resident, Ning, aged 58, shared her thoughts on the streetlight installation. “When the aeroplane-shaped lights were put up, I felt they illuminated the area well. Normally, this place wasn’t very bright, but there were already streetlights. As for the debate about the design, I don’t have an opinion. It’s up to people’s thoughts. I think the lights are fine, though they’re a bit frequent.” The ongoing development and planned expansion of the project are set to continue, with the authorities emphasising that the unique design of the streetlights will remain an integral part of the subdistrict’s identity. -- 2025-03-09

Picture from responders. Lamphun police are investigating the death of a man whose body was discovered on the morning of 8 March, inside a car in Li district. Officers believe he had been deceased for at least five hours before being found. The Phutthaisawan Foundation in Lamphun received a report of the incident and dispatched a team to the scene near Wiang Chedi Old Field in Li subdistrict, Li district, Lamphun province. Investigators from Li Police Station accompanied them. At the scene, authorities found a black Volvo parked with the deceased man seated in the driver’s seat. A charcoal stove was also discovered inside the vehicle. Emergency medical staff from Li Hospital, along with rescue volunteers and police officers, conducted an initial examination. They estimated that the man had been dead for no less than five hours. However, the exact cause of death remains under investigation. Authorities have now transferred the body to the forensic unit at Lamphun Hospital for a post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death. Police are continuing their enquiries to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai) or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress or depression. Seek out help. -- 2025-03-09

Mongolian Tourist Caught Stealing Goods in Pattaya Mall A Mongolian tourist has been caught shoplifting items from a high-end store in a well-known Pattaya shopping mall. The suspect, a 52-year-old man, was found using a modified suitcase to conceal stolen merchandise but was apprehended by security staff before he could escape. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353977-mongolian-tourist-caught-stealing-goods-in-pattaya-mall/

Thai Public Advised Against Sharing Anti-Cambodia Videos Picture courtesy of Facebook Stay in Thailand In a bid to prevent escalating tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has urged the public to refrain from sharing video clips that might portray Cambodia in a negative light. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353945-thai-public-advised-against-sharing-anti-cambodia-videos/

Picture from responders. A 26-year-old petrol station worker was tragically killed when his motorcycle crashed into the back of a parked oil tanker in Samut Songkhram. The accident occurred just 100 metres from his workplace as he was rushing to start his shift. At approximately 07:00 on 8 March, Pol Lt Chanathip Ongklueab, an investigating officer from Mueang Samut Songkhram Police Station, received a report of the collision on the parallel road of Rama II Road in Bang Kaeo subdistrict, Mueang district. Rescue teams from the Sawang Benjatham Foundation were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, authorities found the body of Mr Suphachai 26, from So Phisai district, Bueng Kan province. He had suffered a broken neck. Despite efforts to revive him with CPR, he succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Nearby, his heavily damaged blue Honda Wave motorcycle, registered in Samut Songkhram, was found. The other vehicle involved was a 10-wheeler oil tanker, registered in Ratchaburi, with a dented right rear bumper. The driver, Mr Piraphat 65, from Amphawa district, Samut Songkhram, was waiting to speak with the police. He explained that he had pulled over for about five minutes to relieve himself. While washing his face and brushing his teeth, he suddenly heard a loud crash. Upon checking, he discovered the motorcycle had collided with the back of his vehicle. Preliminary investigations revealed that Mr Suphachai worked as a cashier at a nearby petrol station and was hurrying to his shift and he failed to notice the stationary tanker in time and crashed into it. Authorities have transferred the victim’s body to the forensic department at Ratchaburi Hospital for an autopsy, and further investigations are ongoing. -- 2025-03-09

High Airfares in Thailand Set to Stay as Demand Stays High Picture courtesy of Paxes Travellers in Thailand can expect air ticket prices to remain elevated this year, despite hopes for more affordable travel. Key factors among major airlines—including airport fees, ground handling charges, and an ongoing supply chain disruption—are driving a steady or slightly increasing airfare trend. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353929-high-airfares-in-thailand-set-to-stay-as-demand-stays-high/

to continue: Thailand Live Sunday 9 March 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1354023-thailand-live-sunday-9-march-2025/

Mongolian Tourist Caught Stealing Goods in Pattaya Mall A Mongolian tourist has been caught shoplifting items from a high-end store in a well-known Pattaya shopping mall. The suspect, a 52-year-old man, was found using a modified suitcase to conceal stolen merchandise but was apprehended by security staff before he could escape. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353977-mongolian-tourist-caught-stealing-goods-in-pattaya-mall/

Picture of arrest. A Mongolian tourist has been caught shoplifting items from a high-end store in a well-known Pattaya shopping mall. The suspect, a 52-year-old man, was found using a modified suitcase to conceal stolen merchandise but was apprehended by security staff before he could escape. At around 22:35 on March 7, security personnel at the beachfront shopping centre in Pattaya, noticed the man behaving suspiciously while browsing a fashion store. He spent an extended period in the shop without making a purchase, and security staff became concerned when they noticed that several items had disappeared from the shelves. Realising he was being watched, the suspect attempted to leave the store. Security guards stopped him for a search but initially found nothing unusual. However, upon closer inspection, they noticed his suitcase had been tampered with, featuring a large cut-out section on the top, sealed with Scotch tape to maintain its appearance. A second bag had been placed over the opening, and the front of the suitcase was tightly locked to avoid suspicion. When security staff opened the case, they discovered a haul of stolen goods, including 12 branded shirts and two handbags, with an estimated total value of 26,000 baht. Realising he had been caught, the suspect attempted to flee and physically attacked the security staff. However, several guards managed to subdue him and escort him to Pattaya City Police Station. Mall representatives initially tried to negotiate a settlement with the suspect, but no agreement was reached. As a result, police formally arrested him, and he now faces legal proceedings for theft and assault. -- 2025-03-08

Foreign Driver Crashes Car, Flips onto Its Side in Pattaya In the early hours of 8 March, emergency services in Pattaya responded to a dramatic crash involving a luxury sedan. The incident occurred at around 02:30 in front of the Nong Prue Municipal Kindergarten in Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353950-foreign-driver-crashes-car-flips-onto-its-side-in-pattaya/

Picture from responders. In the early hours of 8 March, emergency services in Pattaya responded to a dramatic crash involving a luxury sedan. The incident occurred at around 02:30 in front of the Nong Prue Municipal Kindergarten in Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province. Upon arrival, rescue teams and officers from Nong Prue Police Station discovered a black Mercedes-Benz, registration from Bangkok, resting on its side. The vehicle driver had reportedly lost control, struck the central reservation, and flipped over. The driver, a foreign national, sustained minor injuries but appeared disoriented and distressed. Witnesses at the scene reported that the car had been travelling at high speed before losing control. Authorities noted that the driver was incoherent and appeared intoxicated. He was taken into custody at Nong Prue Police Station for further questioning and to undergo legal proceedings. Police have yet to confirm the driver’s identity or nationality as investigations continue. -- 2025-03-08