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Man Shot Dead in Rubber Plantation Hut Amid Personal Conflict – Police Hunt for Gunman A middle-aged man was shot in the face and killed in a rubber plantation hut, with authorities suspecting a personal dispute as the motive. Police are now in pursuit of the gunman. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352690-man-shot-dead-in-rubber-plantation-hut-amid-personal-conflict-–-police-hunt-for-gunman/

Picture from responders. A middle-aged man was shot in the face and killed in a rubber plantation hut, with authorities suspecting a personal dispute as the motive. Police are now in pursuit of the gunman. At approximately 11:30 on 23 February, Pol. Lt. Supharuek Chanhyu, Deputy Inspector (Investigation) of Phipun Police Station, was alerted to the discovery of a body in a hut within a rubber plantation in Moo 6, Phipun Subdistrict, Phipun District, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. After receiving the report, he informed his superiors before proceeding to the scene with Pol. Col. Luechai Thongsin, Superintendent of Phipun Police Station, along with an investigative team, a doctor from Phipun Hospital, and a rescue unit. Upon arrival, the authorities found the body of the deceased, later identified as Mr. Hasadee Wongsawat, 46 years old. He had sustained multiple gunshot wounds to the face, chin, and head from a shotgun. Blood covered the floor of the hut, while the perpetrator's identity remains unknown. According to Pol. Col. Luechai Thongsin, initial investigations revealed that Mr. Hasadee had been residing in the hut. The exact motive behind the killing is still unclear. However, witnesses reported that he had engaged in a heated argument with a friend the day before, 22 February. Authorities suspect that personal animosity could have been the driving force behind the murder. Police are currently working to locate and question the individual who had argued with the deceased, while continuing to gather evidence and testimony to establish a clear motive. The hunt for the gunman remains a priority, with the goal of bringing the perpetrator to justice in accordance with the law. -- 2025-02-24

Relative Arrested for Threatening to Kill Debtor’s Family in Loan Dispute A man has been arrested in Krabi on 23 February, after allegedly threatening to kill a debtor’s family and abduct their daughter in an attempt to reclaim a loan. The suspect, identified as Mr Phairot, 35, was taken into custody at a petrol station in Khlong Phon, Khlong Thom District, Krabi Province, under a warrant issued by the Krabi Provincial Court. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352689-relative-arrested-for-threatening-to-kill-debtor’s-family-in-loan-dispute/

Picture of arrest. A man has been arrested in Krabi on 23 February, after allegedly threatening to kill a debtor’s family and abduct their daughter in an attempt to reclaim a loan. The suspect, identified as Mr Phairot, 35, was taken into custody at a petrol station in Khlong Phon, Khlong Thom District, Krabi Province, under a warrant issued by the Krabi Provincial Court. The case came to light when Ms Rattanakorn, 31, a mother of three, sought legal assistance from the Krabi Lawyers' Council. She claimed that Mr Phairot, her lender and a relative, had issued chilling threats, including the abduction and sexual assault of her daughter. He also allegedly posted a video outside her child’s school and demanded excessive interest rates, leaving her family in fear. Following an urgent police investigation, officers from the Crime Suppression Division and Krabi Provincial Investigation Unit tracked down and arrested the suspect. Senior officers, including Pol Maj Gen Pornchai Khajornklin and Pol Maj Gen Lertchai Champathong, had ordered an expedited response due to the severity of the case and public concern. Upon his arrest, Mr Phairot admitted to lending money to Ms Rattanakorn but insisted it was an informal arrangement between relatives. He claimed that he only demanded the repayment of THB 40,000 and denied being a professional moneylender. He also admitted to using an image of a firearm from the internet to intimidate the debtor, stating it was merely a scare tactic. In his defence, Mr Phairot refuted allegations that he charged hourly interest rates. While he confessed to threatening Ms Rattanakorn, he maintained that he never intended to physically harm her or her family. His partner corroborated this account, stating that they had initially lent money to help the debtor invest in an oil business. However, when Ms Rattanakorn struggled to repay the loan, tensions escalated, leading to further borrowing requests. The suspect’s partner argued that the exaggerated claims of excessive interest rates and multiple victims were false, stating that the couple had only ever lent money to this one individual out of sympathy. Police searched the suspect’s home for further evidence before transferring him to Sai Khao Police Station for formal charges. Mr Phairot now faces four serious offences: Charging illegal interest rates – lending money at rates exceeding legal limits. Operating an unauthorised moneylending business – providing loans without a licence. Extortion – threatening violence to force repayment. Intimidation- Instilling fear through threats and making statements that caused distress to the victim. Authorities have denied bail at this stage due to the gravity of the allegations. -- 2025-02-24

Highway Police Arrest Human Trafficking Gang, Discover Drugs and Explosive Highway Police have arrested a human trafficking gang transporting illegal foreign workers and discovered drugs concealed in a stuffed toy, along with explosives. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352687-highway-police-arrest-human-trafficking-gang-discover-drugs-and-explosives/

Picture of arrest. Highway Police have arrested a human trafficking gang transporting illegal foreign workers and discovered drugs concealed in a stuffed toy, along with explosives. The Highway Police Division 1, in coordination with the Immigration Bureau’s Division 1, had been tracking a suspicious vehicle believed to be smuggling migrant workers from Tak province to Bangkok. At approximately 19:00 on 22 February, officers identified the suspect vehicle, a speeding pickup truck exhibiting erratic lane changes. When signalled to stop, the driver attempted to flee, prompting police to activate flashing red lights, sirens, and loudspeaker commands. The vehicle was eventually intercepted. Upon inspection, the driver, Mr. Keng, 21, was found transporting two Taiwanese men without passports. His wife, a Filipino national, also lacked proper documentation. However, a Chinese man and two Filipino women in the vehicle possessed valid passports. A search of the vehicle's luggage revealed 22 methamphetamine pills and nearly four grams of ketamine hidden inside a stuffed toy. Additionally, a grenade was discovered. During initial questioning, Mr. Keng admitted to being paid 5,000 baht per person to transport the migrants from Tak to Bangkok but denied any connection to the drugs or explosive device. One of the migrants disclosed that they had each paid 200,000 baht to an unidentified Chinese financier for entry into Thailand. All individuals denied ownership of the contraband. The police have taken the suspects and evidence into custody, transferring them to Phrom Buri Police Station in Sing Buri province for further legal proceedings. -- 2025-02-24

Business Owner Arrested for Renting Out Credit Card Machines to Chinese Fraud Gang Thai police have arrested a businesswoman for renting out electronic data capture (EDC) machines to a Chinese criminal gang that stole credit cards from a luxury spa in Thonglor and used them to withdraw nearly one million baht. She allegedly received a 15% commission from the transactions. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352685-business-owner-arrested-for-renting-out-credit-card-machines-to-chinese-fraud-gang/

Picture of arrest. Thai police have arrested a businesswoman for renting out electronic data capture (EDC) machines to a Chinese criminal gang that stole credit cards from a luxury spa in Thonglor and used them to withdraw nearly one million baht. She allegedly received a 15% commission from the transactions. On 22 February, Pol Maj Gen Witthaya Sriprasertphap, Commissioner of the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), ordered the arrest of Ms. Wiyada, 41, following an arrest warrant issued by the South Bangkok Criminal Court (No. J.210/2025) on 19 February. She faces charges of “jointly committing theft at night” and “unlawfully using another person’s electronic card.” She was apprehended outside her residence in Kantharawichai district, Maha Sarakham province. The case originated in January when a victim reported to Thonglor police that their credit card had been stolen from a locker at an upscale onsen spa. The stolen card was then used to make transactions worth over 900,000 baht. Upon investigation, police discovered that the criminals did not use the stolen credit card for retail purchases. Instead, they swiped it through rented EDC machines to transfer funds to a designated bank account before withdrawing the cash. Authorities gathered evidence and issued warrants for those involved. The arresting officers traced Ms. Wiyada, the owner of the EDC machines, who had fled to Maha Sarakham following the incident. She was subsequently taken into custody. During questioning, Ms. Wiyada admitted to renting out the EDC machines to the Chinese gang. She claimed that a woman, the girlfriend of one of the gang members, had arranged the rental. Ms. Wiyada received a 15% commission from the credit card transactions processed through her machines, amounting to approximately 130,000 baht. The remaining 85% was transferred to the gang’s accounts. However, she denied any involvement in the theft or fraudulent activities and stated that she was no longer in contact with the suspects. Ms. Wiyada has been handed over to Thonglor police for further legal proceedings. -- 2025-02-24

Woman Helps Prevent British Man from Jumping at Suvarnabhumi Airport A woman has been praised for her assistance in talking down a distressed British man who was attempting to jump from an elevated road at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Her intervention bought crucial time before police officers managed to pull him to safety. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352684-woman-helps-prevent-british-man-from-jumping-at-suvarnabhumi-airport/

Picture from responders. A woman has been praised for her assistance in talking down a distressed British man who was attempting to jump from an elevated road at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Her intervention bought crucial time before police officers managed to pull him to safety. The dramatic rescue unfolded on the evening of 21 February, when Suvarnabhumi’s control centre received reports of a foreign man sitting precariously on the outer railing of an elevated roadway leading out of the airport. Officers from Suvarnabhumi Airport Police Station, tourist police, and airport security were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, officers found the man, later identified as a 30-year-old British national, name not disclosed, standing at the edge of the structure, visibly distressed. Concerned that any sudden movement might push him over the edge, officers secured the area and kept onlookers at a distance. A swift strategy meeting was held to ensure his safe rescue. During this time, a young woman, fluent in English, volunteered to engage with the man in conversation to help de-escalate the situation. Recognising that a calm and familiar voice might ease his distress, officers agreed to the plan. Meanwhile, Pol. Col. Jakrapong Nutchaphadung, head of Suvarnabhumi Airport Police Station, used his personal vehicle as a cover, approaching the scene discreetly. His team, including plainclothes officers, remained inside the car as the woman continued to speak with the British man, gaining his trust and diverting his attention. As the conversation progressed, the officers seized their opportunity. Jakrapong’s vehicle drew close enough for officers inside to swiftly exit and grab the man, pulling him to safety. The operation, executed within seconds, successfully prevented a potential tragedy. Initial investigations revealed that the British national was suffering from severe emotional distress. He was disoriented and at times incoherent during questioning. Thai authorities have since reached out to the British Embassy in Bangkok. The British Embassy in the UK has acknowledged the situation and confirmed it will coordinate further support. Efforts were made to contact the man’s relatives, who have expressed their intention to travel to Thailand but have not yet confirmed their arrival date. This incident has sparked widespread praise for the young woman’s actions and the police’s well-coordinated rescue. 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. -- 2025-02-24

Man Shot Dead While Fishing After Being Asked His Name A man was shot and killed while fishing outside his home in Ang Thong province after being approached by assailants who asked for his name. The victim, identified as Mr. Polawat, 31, was hit by gunfire and fell into a canal, where he drowned. The attackers later returned to fire additional rounds at the victim’s home, before fleeing the scene. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352683-man-shot-dead-while-fishing-after-being-asked-his-name/

Picture from responders. A man was shot and killed while fishing outside his home in Ang Thong province after being approached by assailants who asked for his name. The victim, identified as Mr. Polawat, 31, was hit by gunfire and fell into a canal, where he drowned. The attackers later returned to fire additional rounds at the victim’s home, before fleeing the scene. The incident occurred at approximately 03:00 on 23 February, in Samko district. Police, forensic teams, and emergency responders were dispatched to the scene following reports of gunfire. Upon arrival, authorities discovered bullet casings along the roadside and a fishing rod near the canal. A search team later retrieved Mr. Polawat’s body from the water. He was found wearing a blue short-sleeved t-shirt and black jeans, with a gunshot wound to his left torso. Two methamphetamine pills were discovered in a bag strapped across his chest. Witnesses reported that three men, including the victim, were fishing when two assailants arrived on a motorcycle and inquired about someone named ‘Ball’, the victim’s nickname. Sensing danger, the group attempted to flee. Mr. Polawat, however, was shot and fell into the canal. The gunmen briefly left before returning to fire additional shots near the house before escaping. Another witness, Mr. Jeeranon, 28, recounted that the attackers rode up on a Yamaha Fino motorcycle and opened fire almost immediately. A second witness, Mr. Por, 24, corroborated this, stating that after the initial shooting, the attackers fired several more shots at the house before speeding away. A third individual, Mr. Kai, who was inside the house at the time, suggested the attack may have stemmed from a past conflict that was supposedly resolved but later reignited. Mr. Polawat’s mother, Mrs. Somjit, 61, expressed her shock, stating that she had lost contact with her son some time ago and was unaware of any disputes he may have had. Authorities have identified the suspected assailants, named only as Mr. A, the motorcycle driver and Mr. Mak, the gunman. Investigations are ongoing, and police are actively pursuing the suspects to bring them to justice. -- 2025-02-24

Car Bomb Explodes at Narathiwat Airport, Injuring Three Security Officers A car bomb exploded in the parking area of Narathiwat Airport on the morning of 23 February, injuring three security personnel. Authorities have confirmed that the explosive device was planted inside a vehicle belonging to an airport firefighter. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352681-car-bomb-explodes-at-narathiwat-airport-injuring-three-security-officers/

Picture from responders. A car bomb exploded in the parking area of Narathiwat Airport on the morning of 23 February, injuring three security personnel. Authorities have confirmed that the explosive device was planted inside a vehicle belonging to an airport firefighter. The explosion occurred at approximately 08:30 in the airport's fire service parking area in Koke Kian, Mueang District, Narathiwat. Local police, led by Deputy Inspector Pol Lt Col Sunan Somphakorn of Koke Kian Police Station, rushed to the scene along with bomb disposal teams and emergency responders. Initial investigations revealed that the vehicle involved was a grey Isuzu pickup truck registered in Narathiwat. The owner, a firefighter stationed at the airport, had parked the vehicle outside his residence before driving it to the airport, where the explosion took place. The blast left three security officers with minor injuries, mainly due to temporary hearing loss caused by the blast. Authorities cordoned off the area and launched a thorough investigation to determine how the explosive was placed inside the vehicle. Security agencies are currently reviewing CCTV footage to track the movements of any potential suspects. In a separate incident reported shortly after, another explosive device was discovered near the living quarters of an airport electricity department officer. Fortunately, the explosion did not cause any injuries, and security forces managed to secure the area. Authorities suspect that both incidents were planned attacks and are urging the public to remain vigilant. Residents are advised to report any suspicious activity or objects to the security hotline, which operates 24 hours a day. Despite the security threat, the incidents did not disrupt the scheduled visit of Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and his delegation, who arrived at Narathiwat Airport later in the day. Security forces have increased measures to ensure the safety of all government officials and travellers passing through the airport. As investigations continue, officials have reiterated the importance of public cooperation in reporting potential threats, ensuring that law enforcement can swiftly respond to any further security concerns in the region. -- 2025-02-24

Renowned Folk Singer Dies in Car Crash in Pathum Thani A well-known Thai folk singer lost his life in a car crash after his vehicle veered off the road and collided with a guardrail, ejecting him from the car. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352678-renowned-folk-singer-dies-in-car-crash-in-pathum-thani/

Picture from responders. A well-known Thai folk singer lost his life in a car crash after his vehicle veered off the road and collided with a guardrail, ejecting him from the car. The tragic incident occurred at approximately 07:45 on 23 February, on the inbound Rangsit-Nakhon Nayok Road, Khlong 12, Bueng Nam Rak Subdistrict, Thanyaburi District, Pathum Thani Province. Local police from Thanyaburi Police Station, along with emergency responders from Ruamkatanyu Foundation and the Snanrak Municipality Rescue Centre, rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, officers discovered the lifeless body of 56-year-old Chamnan Innoi, a singer from the Sorn Suphan Show folk music troupe. His body was found approximately 10 metres from his black Nissan March, which had sustained severe front-end damage due to the impact. According to Mr. Chalo Khrueachot, a member of the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, authorities received an emergency call regarding a car colliding with a guardrail. Upon reaching the scene, they found that the victim had been ejected from the vehicle due to the force of the crash. Mr. Chalo further stated that Chamnan was a well-known folk singer who regularly performed with the Sorn Suphan Show. His body has been transported to the Thammasat Rangsit Forensic Science Centre for further examination. Meanwhile, Thanyaburi police have documented the crash site and are reviewing nearby CCTV footage to determine the exact cause of the crash. Authorities are also coordinating with the Ruamkatanyu Foundation to ensure the victim’s family is notified. This incident has left fans and the local folk music community mourning the loss of a beloved performer. -- 2025-02-24

Nigerian Man Arrested After Attempting to Flee Immigration Officers in Sattahip A 52-year-old Nigerian man has been arrested in Sattahip for illegally entering Thailand, following a short chase in which he attempted to flee but fell between parked cars. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352641-nigerian-man-arrested-after-attempting-to-flee-immigration-officers-in-sattahip/

Pictures of arrest. A 52-year-old Nigerian man has been arrested in Sattahip for illegally entering Thailand, following a short chase in which he attempted to flee but fell between parked cars. The suspect, identified as Mr Solomon, was apprehended by Chonburi Immigration Police after officers received reports from local residents about a foreign national suspected of being in the country without valid travel documents. Acting on orders from Chonburi Immigration Chief Pol Col Napaspong Khositsuriyamanee and Deputy Chief Pol Lt Col Kawinwat Arayasurivong, officers from Pattaya Immigration conducted surveillance outside a condominium in Na Jomtien, Sattahip District. When officers identified Mr Solomon and approached him, he panicked and attempted to escape but tripped and fell beside a resident’s car, allowing officers to detain him. During questioning, Mr Solomon admitted to illegally crossing into Thailand via a natural border in Narathiwat province. He then travelled by train to Bangkok before taking a taxi to Pattaya. He stated that he had fled economic hardship in his home country, believing he could earn a better living in Thailand. Authorities have charged him with illegal entry and residence in Thailand. He is set to be deported following legal proceedings. -- 2025-02-23

Municipal Worker Killed as Pickup Crashes into Tree in Phatthalung A municipal worker lost his life in the early hours of the morning of 23 February, after he lost control of his pickup truck and crashed into a tree in Phatthalung province. Emergency responders attempted to resuscitate him at the scene, but he later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352626-municipal-worker-killed-as-pickup-crashes-into-tree-in-phatthalung/

Picture from responders. A municipal worker lost his life in the early hours of the morning of 23 February, after he lost control of his pickup truck and crashed into a tree in Phatthalung province. Emergency responders attempted to resuscitate him at the scene, but he later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. The accident occurred at approximately 02:30 on the southbound lane of the Asian Highway in Khao Chiek, Mueang district. Officers from the Mueang Phatthalung Police Station and rescue teams arrived to find an Isuzu D-Max pickup truck, registered in Phatthalung, severely damaged after colliding with a tree on the central reservation. Inside the wreckage, authorities discovered the driver, identified as Mr. Thanikphong 34, a contract worker for a municipal office in Songkhla province. His work vest and identification card were found inside the vehicle. Rescue personnel used hydraulic cutting equipment to free Mr. Thanikphong from the crushed cabin, performing CPR at the scene before rushing him to Phatthalung Hospital. Despite their efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Initial police investigations suggest the driver may have fallen asleep at the wheel while travelling alone, causing the vehicle to veer off course and crash into the tree at speed. However, officers will examine CCTV footage to determine the exact cause of the crash. -- 2025-02-23

Youth Street Racing Incident Ends in Gun Violence, Leaving Three Seriously Injured A violent shooting in the early hours of the morning of 23 February, has left three young people seriously injured, including a 12-year-old girl, in what is believed to be a clash between rival street racing gangs. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352625-youth-street-racing-incident-ends-in-gun-violence-leaving-three-seriously-injured/

Picture from responders of blood stains found at the scene. A violent shooting in the early hours of the morning of 23 February, has left three young people seriously injured, including a 12-year-old girl, in what is believed to be a clash between rival street racing gangs. At approximately 02:45, officers from Khuan Khanun Police Station responded to an incident on the inbound Asia Highway in Moo 1, Cha Muang Subdistrict, Khuan Khanun District, Pattalung Province. Upon arrival, police discovered pools of blood and a pair of white flip-flops at the scene. Roughly 30 metres away, another bloodstain was found next to an abandoned red and black Honda Scoopy motorcycle, which had no registration plate. Officers also recovered a single .380 calibre bullet casing nearby. The injured have been identified as a 13-year-old boy, a 16-year-old youth, and a 12-year-old girl. Both male victims suffered gunshot wounds to the head and remain in critical condition. The 12-year-old girl also sustained serious injuries. Initial police investigations suggest that the victims were part of a larger group of illegal street racers, commonly referred to as 'dek waen' (youth motorbike racers), who were gathered at the location. Authorities suspect the shooting resulted from an ongoing conflict between two rival groups. Local residents report that the area is a known hotspot for street racing, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights, when dozens of young riders gather to compete in high-speed races. The noise and disruption have been a long-standing nuisance to both residents and commuters. Despite continued crackdowns by law enforcement, the gatherings persist. Witnesses stated that police had already dispersed the group around midnight, but the racers quickly reassembled. Shortly before 02:45 gunfire erupted, with approximately four to five shots heard, leading to the injuries. Medical personnel at Khuan Khanun Hospital have since transferred the two critically injured male victims to Pattalung Hospital for further treatment, as their conditions remain critical. Police are continuing their investigation to identify the perpetrators and determine the full circumstances surrounding the attack. -- 2025-02-23

Turkish Traveller Overwhelmed by Thai Kindness After Struggling to Hitchhike to Chiang Mai Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A Turkish traveller has vowed to share the generosity of the Thai people with the world after spending six hours attempting to hitchhike to Chiang Mai, only to be met with an outpouring of support from locals. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352610-turkish-traveller-overwhelmed-by-thai-kindness-after-struggling-to-hitchhike-to-chiang-mai/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A Turkish traveller has vowed to share the generosity of the Thai people with the world after spending six hours attempting to hitchhike to Chiang Mai, only to be met with an outpouring of support from locals. The story went viral after a Facebook user, Louis De La Maison, posted about a foreign backpacker attempting to hitch a ride from Phahonyothin Road in Rangsit. The post, which included a photograph of the traveller, read: “I found this adventurous YouTuber from Turkey trying to hitchhike to Chiang Mai. He has been standing here since morning. If anyone is heading north, perhaps they could give him a lift, even if just part of the way.” Many online commentators expressed concerns over the feasibility of hitchhiking in modern Thailand, with some reminiscing that such a journey might have been possible 50 years ago. Others suggested alternative transport options, including finding a ride with vegetable trucks departing from Si Mum Mueang Market or Talaad Thai. Some users noted that they had seen the traveller waiting for hours under the scorching sun. On 22 February, reporters visited the location in question, Phahonyothin Road, opposite Future Park Rangsit in Pathum Thani’s Thanyaburi district. Ronnarong Phetcharoen, 46, who originally shared the post, recounted that he had first spotted the foreigner with a large backpack around 10. The man was making hitchhiking gestures, and by 13:00, he was still in the same spot with no luck. “My colleagues and I started wondering what he was doing there. We realised he was probably in need of help,” Ronnarong said. After seeing the traveller still waiting by mid-afternoon, Ronnarong approached him with a bottle of water. “He told me his name was Deniz, and he was from Turkey. He was trying to get to Chiang Mai but had been unsuccessful in getting a ride.” Despite several more hours passing, Deniz remained in the same spot. Eventually, a well-wisher wrote a sign in Thai stating, ‘Looking for a ride to Chiang Mai,’ in the hope that drivers might respond better to a written request. The story gained further attention when a local news page, ‘Rangsit Community News,’ shared the post online. As a result, several concerned residents began coordinating efforts to assist Deniz. Fearing for his safety in the heat, they sought alternative solutions. Kanokpol Kaewwichit, 34, another good Samaritan, recalled seeing Deniz making hitchhiking gestures for over five hours. “When I found out he was a YouTuber documenting his travels, I decided to print out a sign in Thai to help him.” Kanokpol later posted about the situation, hoping that someone would come forward to offer assistance. Eventually, a group of kind-hearted individuals, including an administrator from the news page known as ‘Rose,’ arranged transport for Deniz. Before his departure, locals treated him to a meal of traditional Thai noodles and gave him a brief tour of the area, including the Rangsit City Shrine. The bus ticket to Chiang Mai was paid for by Rose, who dismissed concerns about whether Deniz could afford his journey. “No one should judge others based on their financial situation,” she said. “He’s here to learn about Thai culture, and we should extend our hospitality.” Upon safely arriving in Chiang Mai, Deniz took to social media to express his heartfelt appreciation: “Hello everyone, first of all, I want to thank everyone who helped and supported me. I waited for about six hours to hitch a ride, and the people here were so kind to assist me. One man even brought me water, while another wrote my destination on a sign. In the end, someone picked me up, treated me to delicious Thai food, and bought me a bus ticket. I will never forget your kindness.” Deniz, who has travelled to 25 countries, described himself as an adventurer rather than a conventional tourist. “I don’t come to places just for fun or partying. I want to learn about cultures and meet new people. My journey through Asia started in Sri Lanka, followed by India and Nepal. Now, I am discovering the richness of Thai culture.” A content creator, Deniz also runs a YouTube channel documenting his travels. He promised to share his experience of Thai generosity with the world. “Thailand is a beautiful country, and the people are incredibly kind. I will tell everyone about the help I received here.” -- 2025-02-23