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Two College Students Killed in Motorbike Collision with Songthaew in Nakhon Si Thammarat A road crash claimed the lives of two college students in Nakhon Si Thammarat after their motorbike collided with a songthaew that was making an unsafe U-turn. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352577-two-college-students-killed-in-motorbike-collision-with-songthaew-in-nakhon-si-thammarat/

Jealous 83-Year-Old Fatally Stabs Former Partner Over Bicycle Dispute in Ratchaburi An 83-year-old man went on the run after allegedly stabbing his former partner to death in front of his home in Ban Pong district, Ratchaburi, following a long-standing dispute over a bicycle. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352576-jealous-83-year-old-fatally-stabs-former-partner-over-bicycle-dispute-in-ratchaburi/

Loan Shark Gang Leader Arrested After Violent Debt Collection Incident in Chiang Mai Police have arrested a notorious loan shark gang leader known as “Oat” following reports of violent debt collection tactics, including an attack on a noodle shop in Saraphi district, Chiang Mai. The incident has left local residents fearful and has sparked a crackdown on illegal money lending operations in the region. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352574-loan-shark-gang-leader-arrested-after-violent-debt-collection-incident-in-chiang-mai/

Drunken Russian Passenger Causes Chaos on Flight to Phuket Passengers on a flight from Khabarovsk, Russia, to Phuket, teported to be this week, but no details of the exact date is available, were left stunned after a female traveller, heavily intoxicated mid-flight, created a scene by harassing fellow passengers before stripping off her lower half and lying in the aisle. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352572-drunken-russian-passenger-causes-chaos-on-flight-to-phuket/

Picture courtesy of DED 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. On 22 February, a task force from the D.E.D. conducted a raid on a building in Soi Ladprao 87, Wang Thonglang district, Bangkok, as part of an ongoing investigation into the illicit trade of cannabis-infused products, including jelly and mushroom chocolates. During the operation, authorities seized a substantial amount of illegal merchandise, including 200 vapes, 114 boxes of cannabis jelly, 386 cannabis products, 14 jars of compressed cannabis, a mobile phone, a laptop, an account book, and 250,000 baht in cash. Additionally, a firearm with ammunition was confiscated from the premises. The investigation led police to discover that the woman, identified as 32-year-old Nichcha, was the owner of the property. During questioning, she confessed that the seized items were hers and admitted to operating the illegal business for over four years, claiming to make approximately one million baht in profits each month. Preliminary tests on the cannabis jelly revealed the presence of methamphetamine, suggesting dangerous additives that consumers might unknowingly ingest, posing significant health risks. Authorities have filed multiple charges against Nichcha, referencing a Consumer Protection Committee order that prohibits the sale of vape products, including e-cigarettes, which contain harmful chemicals and heavy metals linked to cancer and respiratory issues. Additional charges include the illegal importation of goods without customs clearance, the unlicensed sale of controlled herbs (cannabis), and possession of a firearm and ammunition without proper authorisation. Nichcha has been taken into custody and is now facing legal proceedings at Chokchai Police Station. -- 2025-02-23

Picture from responders. 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. At approximately 07:00 on 22 February, police were alerted to the scene in the rubber plantation located in Moo 1, Ban Som Phueng, Pa Lelien District. Officers from the local police station, along with forensic investigators, quickly arrived to examine the body. The victim was found lying on his right side, dressed in a t-shirt and black sweatpants, with visible gunshot wounds to his neck, head, and armpit. Nearby, investigators located the victim’s black Honda Dream motorcycle, which had been reported owned by a resident of Bang Ban District in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. The vehicle was found in neutral gear with the keys still inserted, suggesting it had been abandoned hastily. Evidence collected from the scene included two knives, scissors, a rubber cutting knife, a lighter, and a mobile phone. Preliminary examinations indicated the victim had likely died around 6 to 10 hours prior to the discovery of his body, with suspicions that he may have been killed elsewhere and later dumped in the plantation to conceal the crime. Eyewitness reports suggested that residents in the area heard gunshots around 17:30 the day before, raising questions about the timeline of the murder. Moreover, the lack of significant blood at the scene led authorities to consider the possibility that he was murdered elsewhere. Local village headman Nopruj Kuanwilai stated that upon the initial discovery, many thought the victim was merely asleep until the grim reality of a murder became apparent. It was noted that the victim was not a local resident, although he had lived in Trang for the past two to three years and was known to have connections in the area. Investigations revealed that Tiwakorn had a criminal history, including prior arrests for drug possession and illegal firearms in 2015 and 2017. These incidents suggest a potential motive related to personal conflicts or drug-related disputes. The police have handed over the body to medical examiners for a detailed autopsy and are actively pursuing leads to identify the suspect(s) responsible for this brutal crime. The investigation continues as officers analyse CCTV footage from the surrounding area and interview witnesses in hopes of uncovering further details related to the case. -- 2025-02-23

Picture from responders. 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. The fire broke out at approximately 00:30 in Moo 3, Kan Luang Subdistrict, Na Kae District. Upon receiving reports, the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office dispatched fire engines and rescue teams to the scene. The fire, which had engulfed the house in flames, took around 30 minutes to bring under control. Sadly, the remains of the elderly resident, later identified as Mr. Lai Poompao, were discovered in the charred remains of the house. Emergency responders transported his body to Na Kae Hospital. Eyewitnesses, including 40-year-old neighbour Patcharin Wongnakorn and 68-year-old Lom Poompao, recounted that the fire was first noticed when Patcharin’s daughter heard cracking noises resembling breaking wood. Upon stepping outside, she saw flames already engulfing the roof. Neighbours rushed to alert Mr. Lai by shouting his name, but received no response. They attempted to douse the flames with water but were unable to contain the rapidly spreading fire. It was only after firefighters arrived that the blaze was successfully extinguished, revealing the loss of life. According to Mr. Lom, Mr. Lai was an elderly man who lived alone with no family. His house had no electricity, relying instead on an oil lamp for illumination. Authorities suspect that the fire may have been caused by a fallen oil lamp or another heat source within the home. In addition to the loss of life, Mr. Lai’s life savings of nearly 100,000 baht and five sacks of rice were completely destroyed in the inferno. Investigators continue to examine the site to determine the precise cause of the fire and ensure that such a tragedy does not occur again. -- 2025-02-23

Picture from responders. 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. According to police reports, at approximately 19:45, officers at Kamphaeng Saen Police Station received a report from Kamphaeng Saen Hospital regarding two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds. Upon arrival, officers found Mr. Thanasak 39, with a gunshot wound to his right side, which had exited through his back. His daughter, Nadha aged two, had sustained a gunshot wound near her right eye. She was later transferred to Nakhon Pathom Hospital for further treatment. Police officers, led by Pol. Maj. Gen. Phongphan Wongmanithet, Provincial Police Chief, along with forensic teams, proceeded to the crime scene. The incident took place in front of Mr. Thanasak’s single-storey home. A blue-and-white Yamaha Fino motorcycle, which Mr. Thanasak had been riding with his daughter, was found with bloodstains on its seat and the surrounding area. Despite his injuries, Mr. Thanasak had managed to ride his motorcycle approximately 30 metres back to his house before being taken to hospital. Following initial investigations, police identified the suspect as Mr. Eka-Oran 43, who lives just 30 metres from the victims. At around 00:30 on 22 February, officers arrested Mr. Eka-Oran and took him to Kamphaeng Saen Police Station for questioning. The suspect later led police to an area near Khao Sapai Raeng Temple in Tha Maka District, Kanchanaburi Province, where he claimed to have discarded the firearm used in the attack. However, the weapon, a .38 calibre handgun, was not recovered. During interrogation, Mr. Eka-Oran admitted to shooting Mr. Thanasak but claimed it was an act of self-defence. He alleged that Mr. Thanasak had passed by his house on a motorcycle, shouted insults at him, and later turned back, leading him to believe he was about to be attacked. In response, he fired his gun in what he described as an attempt to protect himself, unaware that the victim’s young daughter was also on the motorcycle. Following the shooting, he fled the scene in a black Toyota Vigo pickup truck. Reports suggest that the shooting may be linked to an incident 20 years ago in which Mr. Thanasak allegedly shot and killed the suspect’s father. Mr. Thanasak had served a prison sentence and had been released several years ago. Authorities are investigating whether the attack was premeditated revenge. Local residents reported hearing five gunshots but were initially too afraid to check the scene. It was only later, after the gunfire ceased that neighbours emerged and saw emergency responders taking the injured victims to hospital. Police continue to investigate the incident, with further questioning of all involved parties expected before formal charges are filed. -- 2025-02-23

Picture from responders. A crash in Lampang has claimed the life of a young man and left another seriously injured after they attempted to flee a police checkpoint in the early hours of the morning of 22 February. At approximately 03:00, police in Mueang Lampang were conducting a routine alcohol checkpoint on Duangrat Road, Suan Dok Subdistrict, when a motorbike carrying two young men made a sudden U-turn to evade the officers. The driver then rode against the flow of traffic at high speed before crashing into the rear left side of a police patrol car. The impact of the collision sent both riders flying more than ten metres, with their bodies landing near a power pole. The driver, later identified as 22-year-old Mr. Phattarakorn, was pronounced dead at the scene due to severe injuries. The pillion rider, 21-year-old Mr. Nattapong, sustained critical injuries and was rushed to Lampang Hospital for emergency treatment. Police discovered that the motorbike, a grey Yamaha Grand Filano, was brand new and had no registration plates. Neither of the young men was carrying identification at the time of the accident, prompting authorities to launch an investigation to confirm their identities and locate their families. Rescue personnel from the Sawang Nakhon Lampang Foundation arrived swiftly to assist in transporting the injured victim to hospital. Police have since notified the families of the two men and continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. -- 2025-02-23

Picture from responders. A incident occurred early morning on 22 February, when a car turning into a temple ran over a man who was sitting unnoticed on the ground, dragging him under the vehicle and causing his death. At approximately 06:30, Lieutenant Aomsin Sidamat, an investigator from Phetkasem Police Station, received a report of a fatal crash at Wat Rat Bamrung in Soi Phetkasem 69, Lak Song, Bang Khae, Bangkok. Traffic police arrived at the scene to investigate. Upon arrival, officers found a Toyota Altis car with Bangkok registration parked in the temple grounds. An unidentified Thai man was discovered deceased beneath the vehicle. The incident occurred near the entrance of the temple, leading to the parking area, a distance of approximately 15 metres. The driver stated that they were on their way from a nearby residential area. As they turned right into the temple, they failed to notice the man sitting on the ground, resulting in the collision and the victim being dragged under the car before stopping as the car was entering the parking lot. Authorities are working to identify the victim and notify their family while continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. -- 2025-02-23

Picture courtesy of Customs. 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. The seized items, which included 245,058 pieces of vapes, vaping accessories, counterfeit cigarettes, and foreign beer, were valued at over 19.5 million baht. These items were declared state property following the conclusion of 67 legal cases related to their illegal importation and distribution. According to Yodpol Vichyakul, the head of Chanthaburi Customs, this operation aligns with the directives of Teerachai Atanavanich, the Director-General of the Customs Department, who has mandated stricter enforcement against the smuggling of cigarettes and vapes, as well as other high-tax items that negatively impact the country’s economy. The initiative aims to safeguard society and enhance public health safety. The recent destruction of these goods serves to demonstrate the seriousness of law enforcement’s efforts in combatting illegal activities. The authorities reported that the majority of illegal vapes were found concealed within modified vehicles designed to evade detection. Officials have urged school administrators and parents to monitor students closely, as vapes are increasingly accessible, often disguised in child-friendly forms. They stressed the importance of collaboration from all sectors to effectively eliminate the illegal trade in vapes, which are classified as prohibited imports under the Ministry of Commerce’s announcement. Violators of the law concerning the illegal sale of vapes may face imprisonment of up to five years or a fine equivalent to four times the value of the goods, or both, as outlined in the Customs Act of 2017. Furthermore, the illegal importation of counterfeit cigarettes is also strictly prohibited, with penalties similar to those for vape-related offences. Foreign cigarettes and beer require special permits from the Excise Department for legal importation. Smuggling these products can result in imprisonment of up to ten years or fines equivalent to four times the value of the goods, or both. -- 2025-02-23

Picture captured from CCTV. A wild bull elephant with long tusks caused panic in Chanthaburi’s Kaeng Hang Maeo district when it charged at an unsuspecting motorcyclist, narrowly missing him before bolting off into the distance. The dramatic moment, captured on CCTV, left both residents and onlookers in shock. The incident occurred on the morning of 22nd February in Moo 2, Khao Wongkot subdistrict. The elephant, which had reportedly run amok after emerging from a nearby fruit orchard, suddenly encountered an elderly man riding his motorcycle along a dirt road. In a split-second reaction, the elephant lunged forward, attempting to strike with its tusks, but fortunately missed. The terrified rider, estimated to be in his 50s and believed to be a rubber plantation worker from the area, managed to get his motorcycle to the other side of the road, escaping without injury. Local shop owner Usa Chuenpirom, whose CCTV captured the event, said wild elephants frequently roam the area in search of food, typically emerging from the forest between 19:30 and 21:00. On 20th February, four elephants were spotted in the vicinity, an occurrence she described as normal. However, she was alarmed when she heard loud trumpeting early morning, only to later discover the shocking footage of the near-tragic encounter. Usa’s sister, Kanchana Chuenpirom, confirmed that her sister-in-law’s son had also recorded the scene on his phone. The video showed the elephant storming through fruit orchards, crossing the road, and charging at the motorcyclist before continuing its frantic run. The footage was shared online as a warning to others to remain vigilant. Santi Chuenpirom, Deputy President of Khao Wongkot Subdistrict Administrative Organisation (SAO), stated that based on the video, the elephant did not appear to be aggressive but rather seemed to be fleeing in distress, possibly having been separated from its herd or startled by barking dogs. He urged authorities to monitor the situation and take necessary steps to prevent further incidents in the community. Local officials and residents are now calling on wildlife conservation agencies to address the issue of wandering elephants to ensure the safety of both the animals and the local population. -- 2025-02-23

Police Crack Down on Illegal Hotels Aiding Scammers: Fines Total 5.5 Million Baht The Eastern Regional Police, led by Police General Yingyot Thepjumnong, have intensified efforts against illegal hotels supporting criminal activities, specifically those linked to money laundering and call centre scams. In a significant ruling, a court has imposed a hefty fine of 5.5 million baht on a hotel owner for providing accommodation to individuals involved in these illicit operations. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352581-police-crack-down-on-illegal-hotels-aiding-scammers-fines-total-55-million-baht/

Shocking Incident in Jomtien: Man Chases Tourist, with Large Knife A shocking incident in Jomtien has sparked widespread discussion on social media after a video emerged showing a man chasing a foreign tourist, with a large knife in broad daylight. The event occurred near the Cabana Hotel on Jomtien Second Road and was captured on a vehicle’s dashboard camera. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352567-shocking-incident-in-jomtien-man-chases-tourist-with-large-knife/

Phuket Police Bust Illegal Gambling Ring, 13 Chinese Tourists Caught Picture courtesy of Phuket Provincial Police As Phuket prepares to bask in the summer sun, a recent police operation has brought a different spotlight to the island. On 20th February, Phuket Provincial Police arrested 13 Chinese tourists involved in an illegal gambling operation in the heart of Phuket Town. Supported by local Thai collaborators, the gambling haven was uncovered amid growing concerns about illicit activities catering to foreign visitors. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352555-phuket-police-bust-illegal-gambling-ring-13-chinese-tourists-caught/

Picture of arrest. Police have arrested a notorious loan shark gang leader known as “Oat” following reports of violent debt collection tactics, including an attack on a noodle shop in Saraphi district, Chiang Mai. The incident has left local residents fearful and has sparked a crackdown on illegal money lending operations in the region. The arrest follows an incident on 21 February when a gang of illegal moneylenders was reported to have used intimidation tactics against a debtor in Chaiyasathan subdistrict, Saraphi. Social media posts described how a noodle shop was vandalised after the borrower failed to answer collection calls, despite insisting they had never missed a payment. The violent nature of the incident caused widespread alarm in the local community. On 22 February, a joint operation led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Kritthapol Yisakhon, Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 5, along with senior officers from Chiang Mai Provincial Police, resulted in the arrest of 33-year-old Oat. He was charged with operating an unauthorised lending business, offering loans at unlawfully high interest rates, and engaging in financial practices resembling those of a regulated bank without proper licensing. Authorities also seized evidence, including • A silver Toyota Corona (registration from Chiang Mai) • A black Oppo mobile phone Oat is now facing legal proceedings as part of a broader effort to dismantle illegal loan networks that exploit vulnerable borrowers. Pol. Lt. Gen. Kritthapol emphasised that ensuring public safety is a top priority, warning that similar cases will be dealt with swiftly and decisively. He reiterated that authorities in the northern region are committed to eradicating illegal moneylending operations and protecting residents from financial exploitation and intimidation. The crackdown on underground lending networks reflects the Thai government’s ongoing efforts to combat financial crimes and ensure economic justice for all citizens. Further investigations are underway to identify and prosecute additional members of the gang. -- 2025-02-23

Picture from responders. An 83-year-old man went on the run after allegedly stabbing his former partner to death in front of his home in Ban Pong district, Ratchaburi, following a long-standing dispute over a bicycle. The fatal attack occurred at approximately 19:15 on 21 February along Saeng Chuto Road in Tha Pha subdistrict. Police and emergency responders arrived at the scene to find the body of 60-year-old Nattida, also known as “Auntie Mali”, lying in a pool of blood. She had suffered five stab wounds to the chest, ribs, and arms. Nearby, her cream-coloured bicycle, a black shoulder bag, and a fruit-peeling knife were discovered. The suspect, identified as Boonsri, fled the scene on an old blue Honda Tiena motorbike. Witnesses reported seeing him heading towards central Ban Pong. According to a witness, known only as Mr. A, the victim who had been working for him, as a carer for his bedridden mother for about a year, would commute daily by bicycle to his home, passing Boonsri’s house en route. Although the pair had ended their relationship over a decade ago, Boonsri had repeatedly attempted to reconcile. The situation escalated on 27 January when he took Nattida’s bicycle, allegedly to force a meeting. She, fearing for her safety, asked others to retrieve it, but Boonsri refused and threatened her life. As a result, she filed a police complaint, and the bicycle was eventually returned. On the day of the murder, Mr. A had dinner with Nattida before heading to withdraw his wages from an ATM. When he was gone she had left for her home. When he later arrived home, he found her fatally wounded outside Boonsri’s house. Preliminary investigations suggest that Boonsri confronted Nattida as she cycled past his home, leading to a heated argument that ended in violence. Ban Pong Police Superintendent, Pol. Col. Piyapong Wongketjai, stated that the murder was likely driven by jealousy. He confirmed that officers are actively searching for Boonsri and believe he has not fled far due to his age and the poor condition of his motorbike. Authorities are also working with his family to persuade him to surrender. -- 2025-02-23

Picture from responders. A road crash claimed the lives of two college students in Nakhon Si Thammarat after their motorbike collided with a songthaew that was making an unsafe U-turn. The incident occurred at approximately 18:00 on 21 February at a U-turn in Moo 16, Tha Ruea subdistrict, Mueang Nakhon Si Thammarat district. Police and emergency responders arrived at the scene to find both students critically injured. Despite efforts to administer CPR, one died at the scene, while the other succumbed to injuries later at Maharaj Nakhon Si Thammarat Hospital. Their motorbike, a grey Honda with registration number from Nakhon Si Thammarat, was found severely damaged, while the songthaew was parked a short distance away. The victims, a male and female student from a local college in Nakhon Si Thammarat, were on their way home to Chian Yai district after classes. The deceased female 16, died at the scene, while the 16-year-old male, who was driving the motorbike, passed away in hospital. Witnesses reported that as the students were riding along the road, a songthaew attempted to make a U-turn without proper caution. The motorbike was unable to brake in time, resulting in a high-impact collision. Authorities are gathering evidence and witness statements to determine responsibility and proceed with legal action against the songthaew driver. -- 2025-02-23

Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) to Monitor Foreigners in Thailand Picture courtesy: The Nation The Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) has heightened its surveillance of areas with significant foreign populations across Thailand. This comes as a preventive measure following recent tensions involving Israeli tourists in Pai, Mae Hong Son province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1352541-internal-security-operations-command-isoc-to-monitor-foreigners in-thailand/

Picture captured from video. Passengers on a flight from Khabarovsk, Russia, to Phuket, teported to be this week, but no details of the exact date is available, were left stunned after a female traveller, heavily intoxicated mid-flight, created a scene by harassing fellow passengers before stripping off her lower half and lying in the aisle. According to eyewitnesses, the incident began shortly after takeoff when the woman, seemingly eager to start her holiday early, started drinking excessively. As her alcohol consumption increased, so did her disruptive behaviour. Passengers reported that she became loud and intrusive, attempting to engage in inappropriate conversations with those seated nearby. Despite the unsettling ordeal, the aircraft continued its journey without further disruption and landed safely at Phuket International Airport. It remains unclear whether Thai authorities were informed of the incident or if any legal action was taken against the passenger upon arrival. While airline representatives have yet to issue a formal statement regarding this particular incident, several passengers have spoken out about their discomfort. Some have called for stricter measures to prevent such behaviour, including increased monitoring of alcohol consumption on flights and tougher penalties for offenders. -- 2025-02-23

to continue: Thailand Live Sunday 23 February 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1352597-thailand-live-sunday-23-february-2025/

Police Crack Down on Illegal Hotels Aiding Scammers: Fines Total 5.5 Million Baht The Eastern Regional Police, led by Police General Yingyot Thepjumnong, have intensified efforts against illegal hotels supporting criminal activities, specifically those linked to money laundering and call centre scams. In a significant ruling, a court has imposed a hefty fine of 5.5 million baht on a hotel owner for providing accommodation to individuals involved in these illicit operations. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352581-police-crack-down-on-illegal-hotels-aiding-scammers-fines-total-55-million-baht/

Picture of Police General Yingyot Thepjumnong The Eastern Regional Police, led by Police General Yingyot Thepjumnong, have intensified efforts against illegal hotels supporting criminal activities, specifically those linked to money laundering and call centre scams. In a significant ruling, a court has imposed a hefty fine of 5.5 million baht on a hotel owner for providing accommodation to individuals involved in these illicit operations. As part of Operation “Arany 68 Seal Border,” the police are targeting illegal migrants and international criminal syndicates, particularly those using hotels as safe havens for their activities. The crackdown focuses on areas along the borders of Sa Kaeo, Chanthaburi, and Trat, where many of these crimes are reported to occur. General Yingyot stated that the police have successfully apprehended numerous suspects and are actively seeking to deter hotel operators from offering refuge to “mule” account holders, individuals who use bank accounts belonging to others to facilitate illegal financial transactions. He warned that any hotel found providing shelter to these individuals risks severe legal consequences. On February 17, 2025, the authorities raided a guesthouse in Aranyaprathet, Sa Kaeo Province, after discovering it was housing “mule” account holders tied to call centre scams. The court subsequently sentenced the owner, identified only as Mr A (48), to three months in prison (suspended for two years) and fined him 5,000 baht, with additional penalties amounting to 5,528,000 baht for ongoing violations. General Yingyot remarked, “This serves as a costly lesson for hotel operators. Allowing criminals to use your establishment for their operations could lead to serious repercussions. Any hotel owners who knowingly provide accommodation to individuals using someone else’s bank account will face legal action.” The police chief reiterated that hotels and guesthouses found sheltering online scammers may be violating the Hotel Act B.E. 2547 (2004) and the Anti-Money Laundering Act B.E. 2542 (1999). Violators could face imprisonment, hefty fines, or both. General Yingyot concluded by urging hotel operators to ensure their establishments do not become hiding places for criminals. He encouraged anyone with information regarding suspicious activities to report them to the police immediately, reinforcing the police’s commitment to combat transnational crime and the ongoing threat posed by call centre scams. -- 2025-02-22

Shocking Incident in Jomtien: Man Chases Tourist, with Large Knife A shocking incident in Jomtien has sparked widespread discussion on social media after a video emerged showing a man chasing a foreign tourist, with a large knife in broad daylight. The event occurred near the Cabana Hotel on Jomtien Second Road and was captured on a vehicle’s dashboard camera. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352567-shocking-incident-in-jomtien-man-chases-tourist-with-large-knife/

Picture captured from dash-cam below. A shocking incident in Jomtien has sparked widespread discussion on social media after a video emerged showing a man chasing a foreign tourist, with a large knife in broad daylight. The event occurred near the Cabana Hotel on Jomtien Second Road and was captured on a vehicle’s dashboard camera. A Facebook user posted about the alarming incident, questioning whether the aggressor was a food delivery rider. The footage, from 21 February, shows a Thai man wearing a short-sleeved blue shirt, black arm sleeves, cream trousers, and a full-face black helmet. He was seen holding a long-bladed weapon in his right hand while pursuing a foreign tourist dressed in black, who ran frantically across the road to escape, narrowly avoiding oncoming traffic. The individual who uploaded the footage, identified as Ms Nam, recounted her experience, stating that she was driving to Bang Saray in Sattahip to deliver a customer when she encountered the incident. The sudden occurrence, forced her to brake abruptly in shock as the fleeing tourist dashed in front of her vehicle. She also witnessed the man in blue wielding the large knife in pursuit. Concerned for her own safety and that of her female passengers, she honked her horn in an attempt to deter the aggressor. She later shared the footage in a social media group as a warning, stressing that such behaviour damages the city's image and instils fear among tourists. The video has since raised concerns about the impact on Pattaya’s tourism reputation. Authorities are now awaiting further details from the victim, who has yet to file a formal police complaint. The case remains under investigation, with officials urging any witnesses or involved parties to come forward to clarify the circumstances surrounding the event. -- 2025-02-22 ScreenRecording_02-23-2025 13-21-18_1.mp4