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Suspect Who Shot Thai Police Officer Found Dead in Border River Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The manhunt for a suspect who fatally shot a Thai police officer has come to a grim end after a bloated body believed to be that of the gunman was discovered floating in the Hueang River, which marks the border between Thailand and Laos. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357959-suspect-who-shot-thai-police-officer-found-dead-in-border-river/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The manhunt for a suspect who fatally shot a Thai police officer has come to a grim end after a bloated body believed to be that of the gunman was discovered floating in the Hueang River, which marks the border between Thailand and Laos. The suspect, identified as 33-year-old Boonkerd Singdecha, a resident of Ban Kor Phai Thon in Mueang Loei district, had been on the run since the fatal shooting of Pol. Sub Lt. Phairoj Prom-in, Deputy Inspector of Mueang Loei Police Station. The officer was shot dead during a drug and contraband search at a rubber plantation hut in Ban Kor Phai Thon. Following the shooting, Boonkerd fled into the forest, prompting a massive manhunt involving over 200 officers and border checkpoints established throughout Loei province and along the Thai-Laotian frontier. At approximately 13:30 on 16 April, officers from the Region 4 Investigation Division, while patrolling the banks of the Hueang River near Ban Pak Huai in Tha Li district, discovered a male body lodged among river rocks. The corpse, in an advanced state of decomposition, matched the clothing worn by the suspect on the day of the shooting. A waist pouch containing Boonkerd’s national ID card was also found at the scene. Authorities have yet to officially confirm the identity of the deceased. Forensic specialists have been called to perform a post-mortem examination and conduct legal identification procedures to establish both the identity and cause of death. The funeral of Pol. Sub Lt. Phairoj was held with royal honours at Wat Si Sutthawat (Wat Loei Long), presided over by Police General Kittirat Phanphet, Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police. Gen. Kittirat confirmed that he had received a preliminary report from Lt. Gen. Chatchai Surachetphong, Region 4 Police Commissioner, and has ordered a thorough investigation. “We must be certain of the deceased’s identity and cause of death before proceeding further. If the death was unnatural, we must find out how and who was responsible,” he stated. Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357449-manhunt-underway-after-police-officer-shot-dead-in-drug-bust/ -- 2025-04-17

Lampang Man Dies After Falling from Tree While Harvesting Honey, Attacked by Swarm of Bees A 47-year-old man from Lampang has died after being attacked by a swarm of bees while attempting to collect honey from a tree, causing him to fall to his death. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357958-lampang-man-dies-after-falling-from-tree-while-harvesting-honey-attacked-by-swarm-of-bees/

Picture from responders. A 47-year-old man from Lampang has died after being attacked by a swarm of bees while attempting to collect honey from a tree, causing him to fall to his death. At approximately 13:30 on 16 April, officers from Mueang Lampang Police Station and an on-call doctor from Lampang Hospital were called to the scene near the Department of Health and Environment area beside the Rong Sam Duang cemetery in Bo Haeo Subdistrict, Lampang Municipality. Upon arrival, they discovered the body of Mr. Prayuwong Kamlue, a resident of Huai Sai village in Ton Thong Chai Subdistrict. His body was found beneath a tree approximately five metres tall. Although no external injuries of broken bones were visible, investigators noted numerous bee stingers embedded in his face, neck, and both arms, an estimated 200 stings in total. Near the body, authorities found tools typically used for harvesting wild honey, including a knife and incense used to smoke out bees. Several broken honeycombs were scattered on the ground. A friend of the deceased told police that Mr. Prayuwong often foraged for wild honey and was experienced in locating and harvesting bee hives. On this occasion, he had decided to climb the tree in search of honey but was viciously attacked by a swarm of bees as he approached the hive. The stings appeared to overwhelm him, causing him to fall from the tree. Emergency services were called immediately, but Mr. Prayuwong had already succumbed to his injuries by the time help arrived. It is suspected that the large number of stings and the potency of the venom contributed to his sudden death. The Lampang Rescue Association transported the body to Lampang Hospital, where a post-mortem examination will be carried out to determine the exact cause of death. -- 2025-04-17

Wild Elephant Found Electrocuted in Orchard Picture courtesy of CH7. A male wild elephant has been found dead in a fruit orchard in Chonburi province, believed to have been electrocuted by a low-hanging power line. The animal was discovered without its tusks, though officials confirmed there were no signs of poaching or foul play. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357957-wild-elephant-found-electrocuted-in-orchard/

Picture courtesy of CH7. A male wild elephant has been found dead in a fruit orchard in Chonburi province, believed to have been electrocuted by a low-hanging power line. The animal was discovered without its tusks, though officials confirmed there were no signs of poaching or foul play. On April 15, rangers from the mobile patrol unit in Chonburi were alerted to the discovery of the elephant carcass near a rural area in Moo 2, Khlong Phlu sub-district, Nong Yai district, roughly 40 kilometres from the Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary. The deceased elephant, estimated to weigh about 2,000 kilograms and standing about 1.9 metres tall, was found lying on its right side near a jackfruit tree at the edge of the orchard. The body was already bloated, attracting flies, suggesting it had been dead for four to five days. Electric wires were found near the elephant’s mouth, and an inspection revealed injuries consistent with electrocution. A 35mm-thick black insulated cable was discovered next to the body, along with a broken low-voltage utility pole. Another nearby pole was still standing but had a snapped wire hanging loosely. Officials noted that there was no evidence of the electrical wire being intentionally stripped or modified to act as an electric fence, and no external wounds or foreign objects were found on the carcass. The elephant’s tusks were missing, but authorities believe the animal was naturally tuskless, a not-uncommon trait in some male elephants. The orchard caretaker, 69-year-old Mr. Chamroen, told officials he had not visited the area for several days and only became aware of the elephant’s death when someone gathering banana leaves stumbled upon the body. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation confirmed the cause of death as electrocution. The carcass has since been buried, and a report has been filed with Nong Yai Police Station to formally document the case. Authorities will continue investigating to determine how the electric wires came to pose such a deadly hazard and are urging increased safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. -- 2025-04-17

Hunter Accidentally Shoots Himself Dead While Retrieving Dropped Gun Picture courtesy of Workpoint. A 62-year-old man has died after accidentally discharging his firearm while on a hunting trip with friends in Yala province. The incident occurred on the afternoon of 16 April, in Lubo Kalor village, Moo 4, Purong Subdistrict, Krong Pinang District. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357956-hunter-accidentally-shoots-himself-dead-while-retrieving-dropped-gun/

Picture courtesy of Workpoint. A 62-year-old man has died after accidentally discharging his firearm while on a hunting trip with friends in Yala province. The incident occurred on the afternoon of 16 April, in Lubo Kalor village, Moo 4, Purong Subdistrict, Krong Pinang District. The deceased has been identified as Mr. Suphon, a resident of Lam Mai Subdistrict in Mueang Yala District. According to police, Mr. Suphon had joined a group of nine friends on a wild boar hunting expedition in the forested area. He had been riding in the back of a pickup truck with his backpack and a firearm when the incident happened. As he attempted to disembark from the vehicle, Mr. Suphon dropped the gun, which fell beneath the truck. When he bent down to retrieve it, the weapon discharged and struck him in the torso, killing him instantly. Pol. Col. Torpan Pusantia, superintendent of Krong Pinang Police Station, confirmed that an initial investigation found no signs of foul play. The bullet trajectory was consistent with an accidental discharge. “It appears to have been a tragic accident,” he said. Authorities are now investigating whether any members of the hunting party were in possession of firearms without proper licences. “If any unlicensed weapons are found, legal proceedings will follow,” Pol. Col. Torpan added. Rangers from Paramilitary Unit 4702, administrative officials, and forensic officers from Yala’s Region 10 Crime Scene Unit are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident to establish a full picture of what occurred. -- 2025-04-17

Man High on Glue Sets Fire to Store – Police Refuse to Take Report, Simply Move Him On Picture courtesy of Workpoint. A disturbing incident in Rayong has left local residents questioning police procedures after a man high on glue set fire to a local grocery store, only for officers to refuse to take an official complaint and instead promise to move the suspect elsewhere. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357955-man-high-on-glue-sets-fire-to-store-–-police-refuse-to-take-report-simply-move-him-on/

Picture courtesy of Workpoint. A disturbing incident in Rayong has left local residents questioning police procedures after a man high on glue set fire to a local grocery store, only for officers to refuse to take an official complaint and instead promise to move the suspect elsewhere. The incident occurred early morning, at a small grocery shop near the S-Land intersection in Hat Suan Son, Klaeng Subdistrict, Mueang District. CCTV footage captured a man dressed in black, holding a bag of glue and a lit cigarette, approaching the store. He used a lighter to ignite a mesh screen used to enclose the front of the shop before walking away casually. Mrs. Jaruwan, 50, the shop owner, explained that she had been asleep in the house behind the shop with her sister and brother-in-law when someone shouted that the store was on fire. She ran out to discover the mesh burning, but luckily, a couple of good Samaritans helped extinguish the flames before they could spread further. She immediately contacted the local police station in Ban Phe, but officers declined to record an official report. Instead, they said they would simply remove the suspect from the area. “I was confused,” said Mrs. Jaruwan. “If they just take him away, won’t he come back? I’m scared and anxious all the time now. What if no one had seen the fire? Why is this allowed to continue?” Her brother-in-law, Mr. Thanayut, 45, added that the man is a known glue-sniffer who frequents abandoned buildings in the area. “I’ve been running this shop for four years and he’s always been around causing trouble,” he said. “Before setting fire to our shop, he even set fire to municipal rubbish bins – they had to be moved to avoid further damage.” Despite repeated attempts to formally report the incident, the police allegedly only gave verbal assurances that they would remove the man from the neighbourhood. The family is now pleading with authorities to take stronger action, warning that continued inaction could lead to greater losses or even loss of life. “If he comes back and sets another fire, and someone gets hurt or worse, who will take responsibility?” asked Mr. Thanayut. The incident has sparked outrage among locals, who say more needs to be done to address public safety and ensure mentally unstable or substance addicted individuals receive proper treatment, rather than being shifted from one area to another. -- 2025-04-17

German Tourists Hit by Songthaew While Using Zebra Crossing in Khao Lak Picture courtesy of Amarin from dash-cam. A foreign tourist family was seriously injured after being struck by a local songthaew, while crossing a zebra crossing in Khao Lak, Phang Nga, raising serious concerns over pedestrian safety in tourist destinations. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357954-german-tourists-hit-by-songthaew-while-using-zebra-crossing-in-khao-lak/

Picture courtesy of Amarin from dash-cam. A foreign tourist family was seriously injured after being struck by a local songthaew, while crossing a zebra crossing in Khao Lak, Phang Nga, raising serious concerns over pedestrian safety in tourist destinations. The incident occurred at approximately 15:00, on 15 April along Phetkasem Road in Ban Bang Niang, Moo 5, Khuek Khak Subdistrict, Takua Pa District, Phang Nga province. Dashcam footage from a nearby vehicle captured the moment a German family, a father, mother, and their young child in a stroller, attempted to cross the road at a designated pedestrian crossing. While vehicles in the right lane slowed down and stopped to allow the family to cross safely, witnesses reported that a local songthaew travelling in the left lane at moderate speed failed to stop in time and struck the couple forcefully. The child in the stroller fortunately escaped injury, but both parents sustained injuries and were rushed to Khao Lak Medical Centre before being transferred to Bangkok Hospital Phuket for further treatment. Caution video below shows the collision. The incident has sparked renewed concern about road safety for pedestrians, especially foreign tourists, in the Khao Lak area. Mr. Lertsak Ponklin, President of the Phang Nga Tourism Business Association, expressed frustration, stating that repeated warnings and requests have been made to government authorities to address the frequent collisions occurring at this particular crossing. “Despite numerous meetings and promises of improvement, serious incidents like this continue to happen,” he said. He urged the authorities to enforce traffic laws more strictly and implement additional safety measures to prevent further tragedies, particularly in high-traffic tourist zones. -- 2025-04-17

Teen Loses Fingers After Ping Pong Bomb Explodes Prematurely Picture courtesy of CH7. A teenage boy from Sungai Kolok in Narathiwat province was rushed to hospital late on April 15 after a homemade “ping pong” bomb exploded in his hand, resulting in the complete loss of his fingers. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357953-teen-loses-fingers-after-ping-pong-bomb-explodes-prematurely/

Picture courtesy of CH7. A teenage boy from Sungai Kolok in Narathiwat province was rushed to hospital late on April 15 after a homemade “ping pong” bomb exploded in his hand, resulting in the complete loss of his fingers. The incident occurred around 23:00, on Saithong 4 Road in Sungai Kolok. According to local witnesses, two groups of teenagers were seen in a heated confrontation when several loud explosions, believed to be from homemade explosives, rang out, prompting residents to rush outside. One of the teenagers, described as trying to appear tough, was reportedly attempting to hurl a ping pong bomb at rival youths when the device detonated prematurely in his right hand. The explosion left his hand mangled, and he was heard screaming in pain and calling out for his mother as he was taken to a nearby hospital. Footage and reports shared by popular Thai social media page “Je Moy V+” described the harrowing moment, with the youth crying uncontrollably after losing all five fingers on his right hand. Local police have confirmed the incident and are investigating whether the bomb was self-made or supplied by a third party. The hospital director at Sungai Kolok Hospital told reporters that details on the teenager’s condition and treatment plan are still being determined in consultation with his family. Authorities are also working to determine whether further legal action will be taken, as the possession and use of such explosives are illegal and pose a significant risk to public safety. -- 2025-04-17

Brazen Attacker Assaults Pork Vendor with Screwdriver and Brick in Chonburi Robbery Picture courtesy of Khoasod. In a shocking early-morning robbery, a street vendor in Chonburi was assaulted and robbed by a man pretending to be a customer. The assailant, armed with a screwdriver and a brick, made off with 5,000 baht in cash before fleeing the scene on a motorcycle. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357952-brazen-attacker-assaults-pork-vendor-with-screwdriver-and-brick-in-chonburi-robbery/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. In a shocking early-morning robbery, a street vendor in Chonburi was assaulted and robbed by a man pretending to be a customer. The assailant, armed with a screwdriver and a brick, made off with 5,000 baht in cash before fleeing the scene on a motorcycle. The incident occurred at approximately 05:30 on 16 April, along the Chan-Amnuaipanthong Road in Moo 6, Kud Ngong subdistrict, Phanat Nikhom district. Local police from Phanat Nikhom Police Station responded promptly after receiving a report of the violent robbery, which left the victim injured. The victim, 55-year-old Ms. Kotchakorn, had been preparing her roadside grilled pork stall since 03:00. She recounted the terrifying ordeal, stating that a man on a motorcycle pulled up pretending to buy grilled pork. As she was tending to her fire, the man crept behind her, placed a screwdriver against her waist, and demanded money. Ms. Kotchakorn resisted the attacker but was overpowered. The assailant struck her on the head with a brick and dragged her into nearby grassland. He then stole 5,000 baht from her pocket before speeding away on his motorcycle. Fortunately, a passing motorist witnessed the aftermath and rushed the injured vendor to Phanat Nikhom Hospital for treatment. Police have launched an investigation, collecting evidence from the scene and working to identify and apprehend the suspect. Authorities have vowed to bring the perpetrator to justice, labelling him a serious threat to public safety. -- 2025-04-17

Influencer ‘Uncle Tony’ Faces Legal Action After Controversial Content in Arab Attire Picture courtesy of Khoasod. Thai social media influencer “Uncle Tony” is facing backlash and possible legal action after posting a promotional video for his restaurant, in which he appeared wearing traditional Arab attire while preparing and encouraging the consumption of roasted pork, a dish prohibited in Islam. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357951-influencer-‘uncle-tony’-faces-legal-action-after-controversial-content-in-arab-attire/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. Thai social media influencer “Uncle Tony” is facing backlash and possible legal action after posting a promotional video for his restaurant, in which he appeared wearing traditional Arab attire while preparing and encouraging the consumption of roasted pork, a dish prohibited in Islam. The video, originally shared on the influencer’s popular Facebook page “Uncle Tony’s Kitchen,” quickly drew heavy criticism from the public, particularly from the Muslim community, for its perceived insensitivity. The post featured Uncle Tony dressed in a thobe (a long robe commonly worn by Arab men) as he prepared the dish and invited viewers to try it at his restaurant. The situation escalated when the official Facebook page of the Islamic Committee Office of Phetchabun Province announced that it had received numerous complaints about the video. The committee confirmed it is currently gathering evidence to file a formal complaint against the influencer for actions deemed offensive and disrespectful to Islamic beliefs. In a public statement, the committee said: “We would like to inform our Muslim brothers and sisters who have expressed concern. The Islamic Committee Office of Phetchabun has been made aware of the situation involving the Facebook page ‘Uncle Tony’s Kitchen.’ We are in the process of collecting evidence to pursue legal action in accordance with the law.” Uncle Tony has since removed the video and issued a public apology, acknowledging the sensitivity of the issue and expressing regret for any offence caused. However, the Islamic committee appears determined to proceed with legal measures, insisting the matter is too serious to be resolved with an apology alone. The case highlights the importance of cultural and religious sensitivity in online content, especially in a diverse society where such issues can provoke strong emotional responses. Legal experts suggest that Uncle Tony could face charges under Thai laws related to public offence or religious defamation, depending on the outcome of the investigation. The story continues to unfold as authorities assess the legal implications and the influencer’s intent behind the controversial content. -- 2025-04-17

Dramatic Rescue as Child Pulled to Safety After Falling Down 10-Metre Pipe in Trang A dramatic rescue operation unfolded in Trang province after a two-year-old boy accidentally fell into a 10-metre-deep pipe in Wang Wiset district. Rescue workers battled against time and tight conditions to bring the child safely back into his mother’s arms. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357949-dramatic-rescue-as-child-pulled-to-safety-after-falling-down-10-metre-pipe-in-trang/

Picture from responders. A dramatic rescue operation unfolded in Trang province after a two-year-old boy accidentally fell into a 10-metre-deep pipe in Wang Wiset district. Rescue workers battled against time and tight conditions to bring the child safely back into his mother’s arms. The incident occurred in Moo 1 village, Wang Maprang Nuea subdistrict, when the young boy reportedly wandered too close to the edge of the pipe on unstable ground, near his home and slipped inside. Local residents quickly alerted the Kusolsatarn Trang rescue foundation’s Wang Wiset unit. Led by unit chief Mr. Sawai Kaewjuea, the rescue team rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, they found the child trapped at the bottom of the narrow pipe, which posed a significant challenge due to its small diameter and unstable ground around the top. Rescuers worked for over an hour using specialised rope rescue equipment to reach the boy. The confined space made the operation particularly hazardous, but the team remained determined throughout and safety retrieved the boy. To the relief of the gathered onlookers, the toddler was eventually lifted to safety, showing no immediate signs of serious injury. He was quickly returned to the emotional embrace of his mother, who had anxiously waited nearby throughout the ordeal. Authorities confirmed that the child was in stable condition and would undergo a precautionary medical examination. The successful rescue drew praise from the local community, with many hailing the swift response and perseverance of the emergency team. Local officials have since urged residents to ensure that hazardous areas such as pipes and wells are properly secured, especially in areas where children are present. -- 2025-04-17

Manhunt Underway After Gunmen Open Fire at Temple Festival, Injuring Three Picture captured from CCTV. Police are hunting two armed men after a shocking shooting incident during a traditional Songkran temple festival left three people injured, one of them critically. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357948-manhunt-underway-after-gunmen-open-fire-at-temple-festival-injuring-three/

Picture captured from CCTV. Police are hunting two armed men after a shocking shooting incident during a traditional Songkran temple festival left three people injured, one of them critically. The attack occurred during a water-pouring ceremony at Wat Krok Phra Nuea in Krok Phra district, Nakhon Sawan. The gunmen, known only as “Mr. Men,” 29, and Phuthondit or “Golf,” 41, allegedly returned to the scene with a shotgun after being removed by event security following an altercation. Eyewitnesses reported that the pair initially stirred trouble among festival-goers near the music stage. When volunteers intervened and forced them to leave, the men allegedly returned armed. Riding a Honda motorbike with false licence plates, Mr. Men drove while Golf, riding pillion, fired into the crowd from approximately 30 metres away, hitting three people. Among the injured were Ms. Daralai (20), who sustained a gunshot wound to her right arm; Mr. Phongphat (20), who was critically injured with shotgun pellets embedded in eight parts of his body; and Mr. Phattharachai (33), who suffered a wound to his right leg. Police say the attackers attempted to flee on the same motorcycle, but crashed near the temple grounds after slipping on loose gravel. They then escaped on foot, abandoning the bike. CCTV footage later revealed that a white Isuzu D-Max pickup truck picked up the suspects and headed toward Uthai Thani province. Authorities have since detained Mr. Sing (25), the truck’s registered owner, who admitted to knowing the suspects but claimed he was unaware of the shooting. He told investigators that the pair had called him asking to be picked up and taken to the local bus terminal. He is currently being questioned further. Investigators also discovered the real licence plate of the motorcycle hidden beneath its seat, confirming the vehicle was using false registration. It was seized at the scene for forensic analysis. Local monks reported that prior to the shooting, the men had stormed into the festival crowd, with Golf shouting provocatively, “Anyone tough enough, come at me!” Witnesses described him as intoxicated and aggressive. No one responded, aware of their reputation as notorious gangsters from the Ban Lat Hua Laem area. Police sources confirmed that Golf had a long criminal history, including several violent offences and a significant drug-related conviction. He was released from prison only late last year after serving more than a decade and had recently been working on a construction site in Bangkok before returning home for Songkran. Police continue to pursue leads and are expanding the search across neighbouring provinces. The two suspects remain at large. Authorities have urged the public to come forward with any information regarding their whereabouts. -- 2025-04-17

Landslide at Haew Narok Waterfall in Khao Yai Injures Two Filipino Tourists A dramatic landslide at the popular Haew Narok Waterfall in Khao Yai National Park has left two tourists from the Philippines injured. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357947-landslide-at-haew-narok-waterfall-in-khao-yai-injures-two-filipino-tourists/

Picture from responders. A dramatic landslide at the popular Haew Narok Waterfall in Khao Yai National Park has left two tourists from the Philippines injured. Mr Chaiya Huayhongthong, Chief of Khao Yai National Park, confirmed that he received an emergency report from officials stationed at the waterfall area, stating that part of the hillside, above and near the walkway bridge to the waterfall had suddenly collapsed and slipped down. The two tourists were in the vicinity at the time and were struck by falling rock, vegetation and soil. Rescue teams were immediately dispatched to the scene. One injured woman was extracted from the area and transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment for head and facial injuries, while the other casualty suffered a broken leg. Rescue teams had to carry the casualty out on a stretcher up the steep access steps. Area near the pathway caught in the landslide. The area where the incident occurred is known for its steep terrain and picturesque views, attracting numerous visitors. According to park officials, the likely cause of the landslide is the recent heavy rainfall over the past two to three days, which may have saturated the soil and triggered the collapse. Park authorities are continuing to investigate the incident and have temporarily closed off access to the affected zone for safety assessments. -- 2025-04-17

Pickup Truck Plunges into Canal – One Dead, Four Injured A joyful Songkran celebration turned to disaster. late on April 15 when a pickup truck carrying five men veered off the road and plunged into an irrigation canal in Bang Ban district, Ayutthaya province. The crash resulted in one fatality and four injuries. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357946-pickup-truck-plunges-into-canal-–-one-dead-four-injured/