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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

Bomb Attack at Convenience Store in Bannang Sata, Yala Leaves 11 Injured, One Dead A bomb attack at a convenience store in Bannang Sata, Yala, has left 11 people injured and one civilian dead, just ahead of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s scheduled visit to Thailand’s three southernmost provinces. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352609-bomb-attack-at-convenience-store-in-bannang-sata-yala-leaves-11-injured-one-dead/

Picture from responders. A bomb attack at a convenience store in Bannang Sata, Yala, has left 11 people injured and one civilian dead, just ahead of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra’s scheduled visit to Thailand’s three southernmost provinces. At approximately 20:20 on 22 February, Police Lieutenant Colonel Worawit Na Nakhon, an investigator from Bannang Sata Police Station, received reports of an explosion at a convenience store in Bannang Sata district, Yala province. The attack occurred around 300 metres from the 301st Military Unit’s operational base, near Wat Neranchara. Preliminary reports confirm that 11 people sustained injuries, including seven security personnel and four civilians. Additionally, several civilian vehicles were damaged in the blast. Injured Security Personnel: Sergeant Major Teppitak Wisut Police Corporal Amnat Omanee Sergeant Major Kanisorn Suwannarat Police Lieutenant Anan Suwannachatri Sergeant Major Sahaphap Kerdthip Police Corporal Thanakrit Limcharoentham Sergeant Major Prasit Suntornkit Casualties and Injured Civilians: Fatality: Ibrahim Nimi (civilian) Injured Civilians were named as: Intanon Baruda, Lukman Marano, Nisima Nima, and Tipkesorn Bangoisana All injured victims were transported to Bannang Sata Hospital for medical treatment. This incident follows another disruption on 21 February in Cho Airong district, Narathiwat province, where six young men on motorcycles threw firecrackers at the base of a village sign. Their actions startled Buddhist monks and special forces soldiers stationed nearby before they fled the scene. Upon investigation, authorities determined that the perpetrators had bundled firecrackers with black electrical tape to create an explosion-like effect. The attack in Yala comes just before former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is scheduled to visit the three southern border provinces, Narathiwat, Pattani, and Yala, in his capacity as an adviser to the ASEAN chairman. He will be accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Justice Minister Police Colonel Thawisodsong. Authorities are currently investigating the incident to determine the perpetrators and their motives, while security measures in the region have been heightened in preparation for the high-profile visit. -- 2025-02-23

Foreign Couple’s Haircut Scam at Koh Phangan Salon A couple believed to be Pakistani, avoided paying for a haircut at a Koh Phangan salon in what was uncovered as a scam, after CCTV footage exposed their deception. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352608-foreign-couple’s-haircut-scam-at-koh-phangan-salon/

Picture captured from CCTV A couple believed to be Pakistani, avoided paying for a haircut at a Koh Phangan salon in what was uncovered as a scam, after CCTV footage exposed their deception. The incident took place at Neptune Salon on 21 February between 20:00 and 20:50. Salon owner Kanjana Matura reported that the couple caused a scene over the haircut length, with the husband insisting on a shorter cut while his wife protested continuously. After the service was completed, the couple enacted what appeared to be a premeditated escape plan. CCTV footage revealed the husband displaying an empty wallet before the pair stormed out, falsely claiming dissatisfaction with the haircut. Moments later, they were seen laughing together outside the establishment and the wife handing the husband back his money. “The footage when reviewed later, clearly showed their wallet was empty when they pretended to pay, and they were seen laughing together after leaving the salon,” Matura told reporters. She later shared the incident on her Facebook page, ‘Karn Karnjana,’ to warn other local businesses. The scam involved evading payment of a 500-baht haircut fee. Local authorities have been alerted, and business owners on the island are advised to remain vigilant against similar deceptive tactics. -- 2025-02-23

Pickup Truck Plunges into Canal, Driver Missing Authorities in Nonthaburi are investigating a mysterious incident where a Toyota Vigo pickup truck was found partially submerged in a canal, with no sign of the driver or any passengers. The vehicle was discovered early morning on 22 February under a U-turn bridge on Chaiyaphruek Road in Pak Kret District, prompting concerns over the whereabouts of the driver. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352607-pickup-truck-plunges-into-canal-driver-missing/

Picture from responders. Authorities in Nonthaburi are investigating a mysterious incident where a Toyota Vigo pickup truck was found partially submerged in a canal, with no sign of the driver or any passengers. The vehicle was discovered early morning on 22 February under a U-turn bridge on Chaiyaphruek Road in Pak Kret District, prompting concerns over the whereabouts of the driver. Police from Chaiyaphruek Police Station and rescue volunteers responded to the scene and found the silver-bronze pickup, registration number from Bangkok, half-submerged in the Phra Udom Canal. The driver’s side window was open, and inside the vehicle, only a child’s car seat was found. The truck keys were left atop a bridge pillar nearby, adding to the mystery. Minor damage was also observed on a roadside barrier near the scene. Mr. Kasem Supprathet, 67, a local resident, reported hearing a loud crash around 04:30 but did not immediately investigate. Upon seeing the vehicle in the canal at dawn, he alerted the authorities. He noted that crashes frequently occur at this location, as the gap between the barrier and nearby houses may mislead unfamiliar drivers into thinking the road continues straight. He urged officials to extend the concrete barriers to prevent further incidents. Rescue worker Mr. Mon stated that when he arrived, there were no occupants inside or near the vehicle. Witnesses reported seeing the driver exit the vehicle, place the keys on a bridge pillar, and then leave the scene in a taxi. Police traced the vehicle's registration to a woman, who later arrived at the police station seeking to reclaim the truck. However, authorities refused to release it until they could interview the driver about the circumstances leading to the crash. The woman, who identified herself as the driver’s wife, revealed that she had been unable to contact her husband since the incident. She speculated that his mobile phone might have been lost or damaged in the water, preventing communication. Investigations are ongoing as police work to locate the missing driver and determine the cause of the crash. -- 2025-02-23

Container Overturns onto Car, Trapping Two in Wreckage Emergency rescue teams were deployed on the morning of 22 February, after a container truck overturned onto a car, trapping two occupants inside. The dramatic incident occurred in front of Phrom Khiri Vocational College in the Thon Hong subdistrict of Phrom Khiri district, Nakhon Si Thammarat. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352606-container-overturns-onto-car-trapping-two-in-wreckage/

Picture from responders. Emergency rescue teams were deployed on the morning of 22 February, after a container truck overturned onto a car, trapping two occupants inside. The dramatic incident occurred in front of Phrom Khiri Vocational College in the Thon Hong subdistrict of Phrom Khiri district, Nakhon Si Thammarat. The incident involved a large trailer truck carrying a fully loaded container filled with processed rubberwood, weighing several tonnes. The container toppled onto a silver car, crushing the vehicle and pinning a male driver, believed to be elderly, and a female passenger, approximately 40 years old. Both individuals were trapped in the wreckage, their legs tightly wedged under the twisted metal. Rescue workers faced significant challenges in extricating the victims due to the immense weight of the cargo. A backhoe and crane, fortunately located nearby, were brought in to assist in lifting the container. After a strenuous effort, both victims were successfully freed and transported to Phrom Khiri Hospital, where they are reported to be in stable condition. Preliminary investigations suggest that the trailer had picked up its load from a rubberwood processing plant in Nopphitam district and was en route to its destination when the driver lost control and overturned. The container landed just over a foot away from the car’s driver, narrowly avoiding a fatal outcome. Authorities noted that if the car had been travelling at a slightly higher speed, it could have been completely crushed, likely resulting in fatalities. Police are currently investigating the exact cause of the crash and have took the trailer truck’s driver in for questioning. -- 2025-02-23

Durian Farmer Killed by Wild Elephant in Chumphon A durian farmer was killed by a wild elephant in Naamsai Village, Moo 17, Rabror Subdistrict, Tha Sae District, Chumphon Province, early morning on 22 February. The victim, identified as 68-year-old Chuan Kanjananarong, was fatally attacked despite warnings from both his wife and local authorities to evacuate the area due to the presence of wild elephants Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352600-durian-farmer-killed-by-wild-elephant-in-chumphon/

Tourists Caught Engaging in Sex on Bang Lamung Beach An incident of public indecency took place on the rocky shoreline of Krathing Lai Beach in Bang Lamung District, Chonburi, in the early hours of the morning of 22 February. Tourists relaxing on the beach were left stunned as a foreign couple engaged in sexual activity in full view of onlookers. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352598-tourists-caught-engaging-in-sex-on-bang-lamung-beach/

Online Gambling on Football and Muay Thai Expected to Be Legalised Online football and Muay Thai gambling are expected to be legalised, according to Digital Economy and Society (DES) Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352596-online-gambling-on-football-and-muay-thai-expected-to-be-legalised/

Lorry Collides with Pickup and Car in Pattaya, Driver Trapped in Wreckage A road crash occurred opposite the Shell petrol station on Sukhumvit Road, North Pattaya, involving a small lorry, a pickup truck, and a car. The collision left one man severely injured and trapped inside his vehicle, requiring emergency rescue efforts Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352595-lorry-collides-with-pickup-and-car-in-pattaya-driver-trapped-in-wreckage/

Husband Arrested for Murdering Wife: A History of Violence Uncovered A man with a history of domestic violence has been arrested for the murder of his wife in Pak Chong, Nakhon Ratchasima. The suspect, identified as Mr. Banchaa, 51, was apprehended in Khon Kaen after fleeing for several months. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352594-husband-arrested-for-murdering-wife-a-history-of-violence-uncovered/

Tanker Truck Overturns in Chaiyaphum, Killing Driver A crash in the early hours of 22 February saw an oil tanker carrying 43,000 litres of diesel overturn on a curve, leaving the driver dead at the scene. Emergency crews rushed to prevent further hazards, including a potential fire or fuel spillage. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352593-tanker-truck-overturns-in-chaiyaphum-killing-driver/

Man Celebrating Lottery Win Found Dead After Six-Day Drinking Spree A 56-year-old man who had been celebrating a 6,000-baht lottery win by drinking beer for six days and nights was found dead in a pond, having apparently drowned. Authorities suspect intoxication and cramp as the likely causes. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352592-man-celebrating-lottery-win-found-dead-after-six-day-drinking-spree/

Father & Two-Year-Old Daughter Shot by Neighbour in Suspected Revenge Attack A father and his two-year-old daughter were shot and injured by their neighbour in what is suspected to be a revenge attack stemming from a decades-old feud. The incident occurred in Kamphaeng Saen District, Nakhon Pathom Province, on the evening of 21 February. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352591-father-two-year-old-daughter-shot-by-neighbour-in-suspected-revenge-attack/

Elderly Man Perishes in House Fire in Nakhon Phanom An 81-year-old man lost his life in ahouse fire in Nakhon Phanom during the early hours of the morning of 22 February. The blaze, which consumed the entire wooden home, also destroyed nearly 100,000 baht in savings and five sacks of rice. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352588-elderly-man-perishes-in-house-fire-in-nakhon-phanom/

Murder in Trang: 31-Year-Old Found Shot Dead In a shocking incident, a 31-year-old man was found murdered beneath a rubber tree in Trang, with authorities suspecting he was shot four times with a 9mm firearm. The victim, identified as Tiwakorn Saeheng, had been dead for no more than 12 hours before his body was discovered. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352587-murder-in-trang-31-year-old-found-shot-dead/

Woman Arrested for Selling Illegal Vapes & Cannabis Products for Over 4 Years In a bust, police from the Drug Enforcement Division (D.E.D.) have arrested a woman involved in the illegal sale of cannabis products and vapes, reportedly earning profits of up to one million baht per month over the past four years. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352586-woman-arrested-for-selling-illegal-vapes-cannabis-products-for-over-4-years/

Chanthaburi Destroys 245,000 Pieces of Illegal Vapes and Beer Worth 20 Million Baht Chanthaburi Customs has destroyed a significant cache of illegal goods, including vape devices, foreign cigarettes and foreign beer, as part of its commitment to combat smuggling and protect public health. The destruction took place on 21 February at a public area in Ban Nong Laep, located in the Pathawi district of Chanthaburi. This event was attended by local officials and representatives from various agencies. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352582-chanthaburi-destroys-245000-pieces-of-illegal-vapes-and-beer-worth-20-million-baht/

File picture of Prasert Jantararuangtong. Online football and Muay Thai gambling are expected to be legalised, according to Digital Economy and Society (DES) Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong. Prasert stated that a joint working group, comprising the DES Ministry, the Ministry of Interior, and the Office of the Council of State, has convened twice to discuss the matter but has yet to reach a final conclusion on the legalisation of online gambling. He indicated that further discussions would take place, with a summary expected following the next meeting. When questioned on what constitutes online gambling, Prasert noted that authorities are currently deliberating whether to implement a Royal Decree or a ministerial regulation. While the precise criteria are yet to be determined, he confirmed that online betting on football and Muay Thai would be included. Regarding concerns raised by the Council of State, Prasert acknowledged that some definitions are still being clarified. As for the timeline, he estimated that the issue would be presented to the Cabinet no later than March, though it could extend into April. He reassured that work is progressing steadily, and once the fundamental principles are agreed upon, a draft subordinate law will be prepared. This draft will undergo several procedural stages, but Prasert expects its completion by April. -- 2025-02-23

Picture captured from video. An incident of public indecency took place on the rocky shoreline of Krathing Lai Beach in Bang Lamung District, Chonburi, in the early hours of the morning of 22 February. Tourists relaxing on the beach were left stunned as a foreign couple engaged in sexual activity in full view of onlookers. The incident was reported by an 18-year-old witness, referred to as “Biu”, who was at the beach with a group of friends. He recounted that they had chosen a spot where other tourists were also present on the secluded beach. Their peaceful gathering was interrupted by the unmistakable screams of a woman, a foreign national, leading them to discover the couple in question. Biu stated that he initially became suspicious when he noticed the woman was not wearing trousers. Upon realising what was happening, he recorded a video of the incident and attempted to warn the couple to stop. However, they ignored the warnings and continued their actions before eventually washing off in the sea. The witness expressed his shock at the brazenness of the act, adding that he never imagined people would engage in such behaviour in a public space. He urged tourists to exercise discretion and use private accommodation for such activities. This is not the first time such incidents have occurred at Krathing Lai Beach, which, due to its relatively secluded location, has reportedly become a known spot for amorous encounters. Local authorities have yet to make any comments. -- 2025-02-23