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Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a shocking case of domestic violence, a man allegedly shot his wife multiple times during a heated argument in Pattaya before fleeing with her in a pickup truck and eventually releasing her at a hospital over 260 kilometres away in Kanchanaburi province. The incident occurred around 18.30 on 18 April at a row of rented rooms in the Nong Prue area of Bang Lamung district, Chonburi. Authorities were alerted to the shooting around 21.00 and responded with a team from Pattaya City Police Station, forensic officers and investigators. At the scene, police found a large bloodstain in front of the room and five 11mm bullet casings. The victim, Ms. Thidaporn aged 26, who sells mangoes and flowers at a local market, had already been taken away by her husband in a bright orange Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck. Her father, Mr. Preecha, 56, was waiting for police and confirmed that his daughter had gone missing along with her vehicle. He suspected the attacker to be his son-in-law, Mr. Krat, who had been in a volatile relationship with Ms. Thidaporn for about a year. According to Mr. Preecha, the victim had recently attempted to leave Mr. Krat due to his drug-related behaviour and lack of support. Earlier that day, Mr. Krat had unexpectedly reappeared in Thidaporn’s life after being sent back to his hometown in Kanchanaburi, leading to a fatal argument. A close friend of the victim, Ms. Nan 32, recounted receiving a chilling video call at 19.35. With tears in her eyes, Thidaporn asked to “see her child’s face one last time.” Nan, shocked by the comment, showed her the child via video before rushing to inform the victim’s father. Neighbour Mr. Suthee, 46, witnessed the attack. He reported hearing five to six gunshots followed by desperate cries for help. Looking outside, he saw a woman collapsed in blood while a man, assumed to be her husband, brandished a gun. Mr. Krat then carried the injured woman into his pickup and drove away at speed. CCTV footage confirmed that the couple had a violent argument shortly before the shooting. Thidaporn was seen confronting Krat about their struggles, saying: “Do you know how hard I work to earn money?” Krat responded by firing a warning shot at the ground, then shooting her in the leg. As she lay wounded, he continued to fire three more shots, some at her and others into the air and at one point aimed the gun at his own head. At 22.10, Mr. Krat released the victim at Phanom Thuan Hospital in Kanchanaburi province. She sustained a gunshot wound to her left leg and remains under close medical supervision, reportedly traumatised by the ordeal. Police are now gathering further evidence and preparing an arrest warrant for Mr. Krat, who is still at large. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod. -- 2025-04-20

Motorbike Taxi Driver Arrested for Egg Attack on Tourist in Hua Hin Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A local motorbike taxi driver has been arrested after hurling eggs at foreign tourists in Hua Hin, in an incident that has sparked widespread criticism online. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358224-motorbike-taxi-driver-arrested-for-egg-attack-on-tourist-in-hua-hin/

Picture of the tourists courtesy of Khoasod. A local motorbike taxi driver has been arrested after hurling eggs at foreign tourists in Hua Hin, in an incident that has sparked widespread criticism online. The attack, apparently triggered by frustration over ride-hailing apps affecting traditional drivers’ income, ended with the tourists offering forgiveness and reaffirming their love for Thailand. The incident occurred on the evening of 17 April outside Hua Hin Railway Station. Ms Banita Gopal Periah, a tourist from Mauritius, had just arrived in Hua Hin by train with her husband and used a ride-hailing app to book transport to their accommodation. While approaching the vehicle, an unidentified individual threw fresh eggs at the car, splattering both the vehicle and the passengers. Shocked by the experience, Ms Periah posted the ordeal in the popular Facebook group Life in Hua Hin, a social space frequented by international visitors to the seaside town. “I’ve just arrived from Mauritius, and I can’t believe something like this happened,” she wrote. “I’m still in shock.” The post quickly went viral, drawing strong condemnation from both Thai locals and fellow tourists. Many expressed concern over the negative impact such incidents could have on Hua Hin’s image as a tourist-friendly destination. Police Colonel Kampanat Na Wichai, Superintendent of Hua Hin Police Station, confirmed that officers had identified and arrested two individuals involved in the attack, a female motorbike taxi driver and a 16-year-old girl. Both confessed to the crime. According to police, the suspects cited growing frustration and financial stress as their motive. The rise of app-based transport services had significantly reduced their income over the past few months, leading to mounting resentment. However, they insisted they did not intend to harm tourists or damage the reputation of Hua Hin. Investigations also revealed that similar incidents had occurred three times in the week leading up to this attack. Despite the shocking nature of the incident, Ms Periah responded with compassion. In a follow-up Facebook post, she thanked Thai police and locals for their support and praised the professionalism of the officers involved. “I want to thank the people of Hua Hin and the police for taking this seriously. The officers conducted themselves professionally, and I was touched by the kindness of those who assisted me throughout,” she wrote. “As a teacher who works with underprivileged youth, I understand the stress and pressure people face. I asked the police to issue only a warning to prevent this from happening again. I still believe Thailand is the Land of Smiles, and I love Hua Hin even more today.” Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod. -- 2025-04-20

Bangkok Governor Opens New Bang Bon Fire and Rescue Station with Six Fire Appliances Picture courtesy of Matichon. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt officially opened the new Bang Bon Fire and Rescue Station, underscoring the city’s commitment to public safety and emergency response readiness. The new facility, located in Bang Bon district, was inaugurated in the presence of local councillors, city officials, police, and members of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358223-bangkok-governor-opens-new-bang-bon-fire-and-rescue-station-with-six-fire-appliances/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt officially opened the new Bang Bon Fire and Rescue Station, underscoring the city’s commitment to public safety and emergency response readiness. The new facility, located in Bang Bon district, was inaugurated in the presence of local councillors, city officials, police, and members of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. In his speech, Governor Chadchart reaffirmed that safety is one of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s (BMA) top priorities. He highlighted the administration’s continuous efforts to improve disaster prevention and response systems, including the refurbishment of dilapidated fire stations and the construction of new ones to expand coverage throughout the city. The Bang Bon station is fully equipped with six fire and rescue vehicles and a team of 42 personnel. The facility includes proper accommodation for staff to ensure swift response to emergencies at any time. Governor Chadchart emphasised that the new station will enhance the city’s ability to protect lives and property, offering prompt and effective services to residents in both Bang Bon and parts of neighbouring Bang Khun Thian district. The project was made possible through the support of Navamindradhiraj University, which provided five rai of land for use by the BMA. Construction of the station was managed by the Department of Public Works, with funding allocated in the annual budgets for fiscal years 2022 to 2024. Building works began on 25 April 2022. The site has since been handed over to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, which now operates the station. Covering an area of approximately 43.3 square kilometres, the station is responsible for fire and rescue services in Bang Bon district and a section of Rama II Road between Sois 44 and 100 in Bang Khun Thian. The northern boundary of the station’s jurisdiction borders Nong Khaem, Bang Khae, and Phasi Charoen districts, while to the east it meets Chom Thong district. To the south, it borders Bang Khun Thian along Rama II Road, and to the west, it adjoins the districts of Mueang Samut Sakhon and Krathum Baen in Samut Sakhon Province. The Bang Bon Fire and Rescue Station represents a significant step forward in enhancing the safety infrastructure of western Bangkok and ensuring that residents in the growing district receive prompt assistance during emergencies. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Matichon. -- 2025-04-20

Myanmar Airstrikes Force Karen Villagers to Flee Across Border Amid Escalating Conflict Pictures courtesy of Khoasod. Fierce fighting along the Thai-Myanmar border has intensified, with Myanmar military aircraft launching repeated airstrikes against ethnic minority groups, prompting hundreds of civilians to flee into Thailand in search of safety. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358222-myanmar-airstrikes-force-karen-villagers-to-flee-across-border-amid-escalating-conflict/

Pictures courtesy of Khoasod. Fierce fighting along the Thai-Myanmar border has intensified, with Myanmar military aircraft launching repeated airstrikes against ethnic minority groups, prompting hundreds of civilians to flee into Thailand in search of safety. In the early hours of 18 April, Myanmar forces used aerial bombardments near the village of Mopu Sue, just 2 kilometres from the Thai border, targeting positions believed to be held by ethnic Karen armed groups. The attack triggered a mass exodus of residents into Thailand, with many crossing into Huai Plakong village in Khane Chue subdistrict, Mae Ramat district, Tak province. Local Thai authorities quickly established a temporary safe zone at Huai Plakong Forest Monastery to accommodate the displaced. Officials confirmed that 215 Myanmar nationals had sought refuge, including 39 men, 72 women, 53 boys and 51 girls. Colonel Natthakorn Rueantip, commander of the Ratchamanu Task Force, ordered troops from the Ratchamanu and Ranger Task Force 35 units to coordinate with police and local administrative officers to ensure border security and provide humanitarian aid. Military personnel have been deployed along the frontier, equipped with support weapons as part of a contingency response plan to protect Thai sovereignty and civilian lives. Tensions have been rising since a Myanmar Air Force YAK-130 aircraft dropped bombs near Talui Thong village in Kawkareik Township, Karen State, opposite Rim Moei village in Mae Sot district, Tak province, approximately 50 kilometres from the border. In retaliation, the Karen National Liberation Army’s 7th Brigade launched a counteroffensive, deploying troops and drones to attack the Myanmar Army’s Infantry Battalion 24 base in Mopu Sue, located in Myawaddy Township, Karen State. During the clashes, Myanmar forces reportedly responded with heavy weaponry. The intensifying conflict has led to another wave of displaced villagers. Approximately 120 more civilians crossed into Thailand via a natural border crossing near Tham Mokkhala, also in Huai Plakong village, seeking refuge in the designated safe zone. Thai security forces and humanitarian agencies remain on high alert as the border situation continues to develop. Officials have reiterated their commitment to upholding humanitarian principles while maintaining national security. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod. -- 2025-04-20

Horrific Drug-Fuelled Murder: Husband Stabs Wife 13 Times While She Held Their Baby Picture courtesy of ThaiRath. In a chilling act of violence, a 40-year-old man allegedly stabbed his wife 13 times in a drug-induced frenzy while she was holding their 11-month-old son. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning on 18 April, in Ban Na district, Nakhon Nayok province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358221-horrific-drug-fuelled-murder-husband-stabs-wife-13-times-while-she-held-their-baby/

Picture courtesy of ThaiRath. In a chilling act of violence, a 40-year-old man allegedly stabbed his wife 13 times in a drug-induced frenzy while she was holding their 11-month-old son. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning on 18 April, in Ban Na district, Nakhon Nayok province. Police from Ban Na Police Station, led by Pol Lt Col Jaroon Duangwiangkham, were alerted to the scene at approximately 06:30. Upon arrival at a single-storey residence on Soi Charoensap, officers discovered the victim, Ms Phenphoyom “Koi” Duangchampa, 34, lying in a pool of blood in the living room. She had sustained 13 stab wounds to the neck and abdomen. Despite efforts to rush her to Ban Na Hospital, she was later pronounced dead. Inside the home, police also found the couple’s baby boy crying beside his mother’s lifeless body. The suspect, identified as Mr Amnat “Get” Srisat, the victim’s husband, had fled the scene in a car shortly after the attack. According to Mr Amnat’s mother, Mrs Bangon Jomsri, 61, her son had returned home from Nakhon Ratchasima province, where he worked as an auto electrician, to visit his family for the Songkran holiday. He had been living with Ms Phenphoyom for three years and was known to have a history of drug use. On the morning of April 17, an argument reportedly broke out after Ms Phenphoyom asked Mr Amnat for money to buy milk for their child. Mr Amnat, having lost his money to online gambling, became agitated. His mother stated that he had consumed methamphetamine, which caused paranoid hallucinations. He became convinced that his wife was being unfaithful. Through the night, the argument escalated. While Mrs Bangon was taking a shower in the morning, she heard her daughter-in-law scream. She rushed to the house and found her son violently attacking his wife with a knife as she held their child. Mrs Bangon attempted to intervene, but Mr Amnat fled the scene in a car. Police later apprehended Mr Amnat at a relative’s house in Don Pho village, also in Ban Na. His clothes were reportedly stained with blood. During interrogation, he admitted to the killing, claiming he had been hallucinating and believed his wife was cheating on him. He also confessed to discarding the murder weapon in a canal near the Thonglang Subdistrict Administrative Office, though a search by rescue divers failed to locate the knife. Mr Amnat is in police custody and has been taken to the scene to participate in a crime reenactment. Authorities say he will be charged with murder. Adapted by ASEAN Now from ThaiRath. -- 2025-04-20

Motorbike Racer Critically Injured in Pattaya Tunnel Crash A young man was critically injured just after midnight when his motorbike collided with the rear of a parked car on the exit from the Pattaya Klang underpass. The crash occurred on the lane heading towards Sattahip. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358220-motorbike-racer-critically-injured-in-pattaya-tunnel-crash/

Picture from responders. A young man was critically injured just after midnight when his motorbike collided with the rear of a parked car on the exit from the Pattaya Klang underpass. The crash occurred on the lane heading towards Sattahip. Rescue workers responded to an emergency call at approximately 00:05 on 19 April, reporting a road traffic crash involving a motorbike and a car. Upon arrival at the scene, authorities found an unconscious male rider, identity unknown, lying face-down in a pool of blood beside his yellow Honda (registration from Chonburi). He was unresponsive and reportedly could not be revived at the scene. Emergency personnel administered CPR and coordinated with Pattaya Patthamakun Hospital’s advanced ambulance unit for urgent hospital transfer. A second rider, identified as 17-year-old Mr Anuchit Phusathong, was also involved in the incident. He had been riding a black-and-red Honda Wave (registration from Chonburi) and sustained minor abrasions. He was treated at the scene but declined further medical attention. According to the driver of the saloon car involved in the crash, he had been heading toward Jomtien when his vehicle ran out of fuel at the exit of the underpass. He stopped the car and turned on the hazard lights while a companion went to purchase petrol. It was then that the two motorbikes, reportedly racing at high speed, entered the tunnel and one of them struck the rear of his stationary vehicle. Under current traffic regulations, motorbikes are strictly prohibited from using the Pattaya Klang underpass in any circumstance. Pattaya City Police officers arrived at the scene to collect evidence and conduct an initial investigation. CCTV footage from the area will be reviewed to determine the exact sequence of events and ensure fairness for all parties involved. Adapted by ASEAN Now from TMN. -- 2025-04-20

Man, 61, Suffers Severe Electric Shock While Repairing Fan, Found Unconscious After Two Days Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A 61-year-old man is in critical condition after suffering a severe electric shock while attempting to repair a fan in his rented room. The man is believed to have been unconscious for two days before being discovered, still clutching the scorched electrical cord. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358219-man-61-suffers-severe-electric-shock-while-repairing-fan-found-unconscious-after-two-days/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A 61-year-old man is in critical condition after suffering a severe electric shock while attempting to repair a fan in his rented room. The man is believed to have been unconscious for two days before being discovered, still clutching the scorched electrical cord. Rescue officers from the Traikunatham Foundation and paramedics from Phan Thong Hospital responded to an emergency call at 19:40 on 18 April. The incident took place at a rented room in Moo 7, Nong Tamlueng subdistrict, Phan Thong district, Chonburi province. Upon arrival, rescuers found the victim, identified only as Mr. Ko, lying on his back with signs of body stiffness, vomiting, and in respiratory distress. His hands were still gripping a burnt electrical wire. Paramedics immediately rushed him to Chonburi Hospital for urgent treatment. An inspection of the room revealed evidence of a failed electrical repair attempt. Two electric fans were found toppled over near Mr. Ko, with repair tools scattered beside them. A section of wiring showed visible burn marks, indicating where the electric shock likely occurred. Ms. Panjakan, 61, the caretaker of the property, said Mr. Ko worked as a security guard and had not shown up for work in two days. Concerned by his absence and unable to reach him, his supervisor contacted her to check on him. She then used a spare key to open the room, accompanied by a neighbour, only to find him lying unresponsive. Mr. Khemakorn, 47, a neighbour in the same block, added that he hadn’t seen Mr. Ko since the previous day. Initially, he assumed the man was ill and resting. Only after being asked by the caretaker to help investigate further did he realise the seriousness of the situation. Authorities believe the incident may have occurred the day before he was found, as the vomit around the victim had dried and he showed signs of having been unconscious for an extended period. The case is being further investigated, while the victim remains in intensive care. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod. -- 2025-04-20

Thai Airways Appoints New 11-Member Board as ‘Chatchai’ Left Off Final List File picture courtesy of Thai Airways. Thai Airways International Public Company Limited has announced the appointment of a new board of directors, following a resolution passed at its extraordinary general meeting of shareholders held electronically. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358218-thai-airways-appoints-new-11-member-board-as-‘chatchai’-left-off-final-list/

File picture courtesy of Thai Airways. Thai Airways International Public Company Limited has announced the appointment of a new board of directors, following a resolution passed at its extraordinary general meeting of shareholders held electronically. One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the decision to set the number of board members at 11, a figure deemed appropriate by the rehabilitation plan administrators. The new appointments were made from a pool of nine nominees, with eight selected based on highest individual vote counts: 1. Mr. Chai Iamsiri 2. Dr. Kulaya Tantitemit 3. Mr. Lawaron Saengsanit 4. Mr. Chakree Bamrungwong 5. Mr. Napakorn Thanasuwankasem (Independent Director) 6. Mr. Yanyong Detphiratmongkol (Independent Director) 7. Mr. Samrit Samniang (Independent Director) 8. Pol. Gen. Thatchai Pitaneelabutr (Independent Director) However, Mr. Chatchai Rojanavatanangkul, who ranked ninth in votes, did not make the final list due to the limit of 11 board seats. The remaining three positions are held by existing directors whose terms continue for another year: Mr. Piyasvasti Amranand, Mr. Chansin Treenuchagron, and Air Chief Marshal Amnaj Jira-maneemai. According to inside sources, the company will now proceed with registration of the board changes before convening a meeting to select a new chairman. With a significant number of new board members being representatives of the state sector, it is widely expected that the Ministry of Finance will nominate the next board chair. Thai Airways has met all key conditions required to exit its court-approved business rehabilitation plan, having achieved an EBITDA profit of over 20 billion baht over 12 months and returned to positive shareholders’ equity. The company has avoided any defaults and completed the appointment of a new board. It plans to file a petition with the Central Bankruptcy Court by the end of April and, if approved within the following 1–2 months, will hold a board meeting to formally exit the rehabilitation plan. This will be followed by a request to relist Thai Airways shares on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. The airline’s outlook for Q2 2025 remains positive. Since early April, the passenger load factor (cabin factor) has stood at 87.3%, with European routes reaching as high as 94.8%, boosted by Easter holidays and school breaks. Although there has been a dip in Chinese passenger numbers, the impact has been limited due to a relatively small market share. A seasonal decline in passenger traffic is expected in May and June. Thai Airways’ largest shareholders remain the Ministry of Finance and state-owned enterprises, holding a combined 42.99%. Bangkok Bank holds 8.51%, while approximately 33.09% of shares are held by creditors who converted debt into equity. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Matichon. -- 2025-04-20

Trailer Truck Carrying Ceiling Panels Crashes, Driver Crushed to Death A road crash has claimed the life of a 59-year-old trailer driver after his vehicle, heavily loaded with ceiling panels, veered off the road and overturned, fatally crushing him beneath the cargo. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358217-trailer-truck-carrying-ceiling-panels-crashes-driver-crushed-to-death/

Picture from responders. A road crash has claimed the life of a 59-year-old trailer driver after his vehicle, heavily loaded with ceiling panels, veered off the road and overturned, fatally crushing him beneath the cargo. The incident occurred at approximately 22:30 on 18 April along the Asia Highway, near kilometre marker 15 in Ban Pa Bak, Moo 4, Thung Nari sub-district, Pa Bon district, Phatthalung province. Local police from Pa Bon Police Station and rescue personnel from Phatthalung’s emergency services were quickly dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, authorities discovered the truck and trailer, registered in Songkhla, lying off the side of the road. It had been carrying a full load of large ceiling panels. The driver, identified as Mr. Manop, was found dead at the scene, crushed beneath the very panels he had been transporting. Rescue workers spent more than 30 minutes using specialised equipment to remove the heavy panels and a fallen tree that had compounded the wreckage. Mr. Manop’s body was eventually recovered, showing extensive trauma. Reports stated that nearly all his bones were fractured, and his skull had been flattened by the weight. According to a fellow driver travelling in a separate vehicle from the same transport team, Mr. Manop had departed from Bangkok with a delivery bound for the Sadao border checkpoint in Hat Yai district, Songkhla. Shortly before the incident, Mr. Manop reportedly called and told his colleague that he was too tired to continue driving and planned to stop for a rest. The colleague drove on ahead, only to later receive the devastating news from police. Initial investigations suggest that the driver may have fallen asleep at the wheel, causing the vehicle to veer off the road. However, police confirmed they would review CCTV footage in the area to determine the exact cause of the crash. Rescue personnel have since contacted the deceased’s family, and arrangements are being made to return Mr. Manop’s body to his hometown. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod. -- 2025-04-20

Three Juveniles Arrested for Motorcycle Theft in Udon Thani, Gang Leader Just 12 Years Old Picture courtesy of Khoasod. Police in Udon Thani have apprehended three juveniles involved in the theft of a sidecar motorcycle, with the leader of the group shockingly revealed to be just 12 years old. The boy had only been released from a juvenile detention centre two months prior. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358216-three-juveniles-arrested-for-motorcycle-theft-in-udon-thani-gang-leader-just-12-years-old/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. Police in Udon Thani have apprehended three juveniles involved in the theft of a sidecar motorcycle, with the leader of the group shockingly revealed to be just 12 years old. The boy had only been released from a juvenile detention centre two months prior. The incident came to light after a local resident reported the theft of a blue sidecar motorcycle parked in Mueang District to Non Sung Police Substation. Police investigators, led by Pol. Sub Lt. Udomchok Singhakhunsiri, reviewed nearby CCTV footage and spotted three young boys acting suspiciously at around 03:45 on 18 April. Two were then seen riding the stolen vehicle, while the third followed on another motorcycle. Upon reviewing the footage, officers immediately recognised the suspects as local youths previously involved in similar crimes during the past year. The police quickly moved to arrest the trio at their homes in Village 8, Nong Khon Kwang Subdistrict. The arrested youths were identified only as; • Master A, aged 12 – identified as the gang leader • Master B, aged 13 • Master C, aged 14 During questioning, all three confessed to stealing the motorcycle. They claimed that they had initially been riding a relative’s bike, which was running low on fuel. In an attempt to siphon petrol, they stole the entire sidecar motorcycle, later parking it by a nearby reservoir to extract the fuel before fleeing the scene. Further investigation revealed that Master A had planned to dismantle the stolen vehicle and sell it for parts. The bike was moved to the rear of a seafood restaurant near the entrance to Udon Thani Industrial Estate, where some components had already been removed before the arrests were made. Pol. Sub Lt. Udomchok stated that the boys were known repeat offenders. Master A had been released from a juvenile detention facility just two months earlier, following a previous theft in which the victim declined to press charges due to the offender’s young age. Authorities are now proceeding with legal action, and the case has once again sparked debate over juvenile crime and rehabilitation in the country. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod. -- 2025-04-20

Brutal Roadside Killing in Phatthalung: Young Man Shot Dead, Girlfriend Miraculously Survive Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 20-year-old man was gunned down in cold blood on the Phatthalung-Trang road late on night on 18 April, in a horrifying incident that left his 17-year-old girlfriend traumatised but miraculously alive after a shotgun aimed at her head failed to fire. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358215-brutal-roadside-killing-in-phatthalung-young-man-shot-dead-girlfriend-miraculously-survive/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 20-year-old man was gunned down in cold blood on the Phatthalung-Trang road late on night on 18 April, in a horrifying incident that left his 17-year-old girlfriend traumatised but miraculously alive after a shotgun aimed at her head failed to fire. Police Lieutenant Jiraset Sermkaew, deputy investigator at Khok Chanai Police Station, received a call at around 22:00, reporting a fatal shooting on the highway in Moo 4, Na Thom sub-district, Mueang District, Phatthalung Province. Emergency responders, forensic experts and police investigators rushed to the scene. The victim, identified as Mr. Natthawat, 20, was found lying face-down over his fallen Honda Wave motorcycle bearing a Phatthalung registration plate. He had sustained multiple shotgun wounds to the right side of his neck, right shoulder, and through his left arm and torso. In his shoulder bag, officers found cash, two mobile phones, and a 12-gauge shotgun cartridge. His girlfriend, aged 17, was visibly shaken and in a state of shock. According to the girl’s account, the couple had spent the evening at a local festival on Phu Khao Chiak mountain. On their way home, a white pickup truck parked by the roadside flagged them down. Four young men wearing surgical masks exited the vehicle and approached the couple. One of them asked, “Do you have anything?” before abruptly opening fire without warning. Natthawat was shot multiple times and collapsed dead at the scene. After killing him, the assailants turned their weapon on the girl, pointing the shotgun at her head. The gun, however, failed to discharge. Crying and pleading for her life with hands raised in a wai gesture, she begged for mercy. The attackers then rifled through the victim’s bag, stealing his handgun before returning to their pickup and fleeing the scene. The girl reported that two women were also inside the getaway vehicle. Police are now gathering forensic evidence and reviewing CCTV footage in the area to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. Investigators suspect personal vengeance may have been a motive for the deadly ambush. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Matichon. -- 2025-04-20

to continue: Thailand Live Sunday 20 April 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1358214-thailand-live-sunday-20-april-2025/

Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim Hits Back: No Meddling in Thai Politics FILE - Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim (L) talks with former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra during the former's visit in Bangkok.//Anwar's FB Malaysia's Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, has vigorously denied accusations of interference in Thailand's political affairs following his controversial appointment of former Thai leader Thaksin Shinawatra as chief advisor to the ASEAN chair. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358190-malaysian-pm-anwar-ibrahim-hits-back-no-meddling-in-thai-politics/

Sorry but how can anyone comment on where the preventative measures went wrong, when the cause of the fire is not yet known and under investigation. The fire safety measures under regulations are designed to protect life and there were no death or injuries. This type of premises is open fronted, so adequate means of escape. No country would require this size premises to have sprinklers for life safety and no insurance company would require it for property protection. Images of the fire clearly shows initial attempts to use fire extinguishers, so suitable first aid firefighting equipment was in place. Yes fire prevention, why the fire started, can be reviewed once the cause has been identified. The real issue here is why the fire spread beyond the building of origin. This will be depend on what local building acts, say about separation between buildings and if in fact these premises were deemed suitable for industrial/commerical use in a residential area.

71-Year-Old Woman Arrested for Stealing From Chinese Tourist at CentralWorld Mall Picture captured from CCTV. A 71-year-old woman has been arrested on 18 April, for stealing a bag from a Chinese tourist while she was shopping at a popular shopping mall in central Bangkok. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358184-71-year-old-woman-arrested-for-stealing-from-chinese-tourist-at-centralworld-mall/