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UPDATE Drunk Driver Who Ploughed into Songkran Revellers Granted Bail Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 44-year-old man who drove his pickup truck into a crowd celebrating Songkran, Thailand’s New Year water festival, has been granted bail, police confirmed on 15 April. The incident, which occurred in the Klong Udom village area of Thung Praya subdistrict, Sanam Chai Khet district, left multiple people injured, including one in serious condition. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357769-pickup-truck-ploughs-through-songkran-revellers-injuring-nearly-20-driver-beaten-by-mob/#findComment-19733345

UPDATE Drunk Driver Who Ploughed into Songkran Revellers Granted Bail Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 44-year-old man who drove his pickup truck into a crowd celebrating Songkran, Thailand’s New Year water festival, has been granted bail, police confirmed on 15 April. The incident, which occurred in the Klong Udom village area of Thung Praya subdistrict, Sanam Chai Khet district, left multiple people injured, including one in serious condition. The driver, identified as Mr. Suraphon from Khao Mai Kaew in Kabin Buri district, Prachinburi province, was reportedly intoxicated at the time. Police said he was arrested at the scene by officers from Wangkhu Police Station and was later charged with two offences: driving under the influence and reckless driving causing serious injury. According to Pol. Col. Kriengkrai Boonsorn, Provincial Police Chief of Chachoengsao, the suspect had no prior criminal record. Pol. Col. Phuwadon Phisutthinaraset, Superintendent of Wangkhu Police Station, added that Mr. Suraphon applied for bail using a surety based on his position as a subdistrict headman, with an asset value of 200,000 baht or a cash bond of 100,000 baht. The court approved the bail request, citing the defendant’s legal right to apply. Witnesses reported the driver appeared confused and ignored calls from local residents to exit his vehicle following the crash. The incident, which took place on a narrow six-metre-wide village road, occurred amid heavy rain and poor driving conditions. The road was filled with people enjoying Songkran festivities at the time. The suspect, who has worked at a Japanese-owned factory in the 304 Industrial Estate for 18 years, is said to have only minor injuries. Breathalyser results showed an alcohol level well above the legal limit. The vehicle sustained minor damage to the front bonnet, consistent with striking pedestrians. Investigations revealed that Mr. Suraphon had earlier been participating in the water celebrations before attempting to drive home. As of the afternoon of 15 April, all but one of the injured individuals had been discharged from hospital. One person remains under medical care at Sanam Chai Khet Hospital. Doctors are continuing to monitor the patient’s condition to determine the severity of the injuries. Local authorities continue to investigate the incident. The case has drawn widespread attention as communities across Thailand seek to balance festive traditions with public safety. -- 2025-04-15

138 Deaths in First Four Days of Songkran’s “Seven Dangerous Days” Pictures courtesy of DDPM. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has reported a total of 138 deaths and 1,002 injuries from 1,000 road accidents across Thailand during the first four days (11–14 April) of the Songkran festival’s road safety campaign. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357797-138-deaths-in-first-four-days-of-songkran’s-“seven-dangerous-days”/

Pictures courtesy of DDPM. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has reported a total of 138 deaths and 1,002 injuries from 1,000 road accidents across Thailand during the first four days (11–14 April) of the Songkran festival’s road safety campaign. On 14 April alone, the fourth day of the campaign themed “Safe Driving, Accident-Free Thailand”, there were 241 reported crashes, resulting in 249 injuries and 34 fatalities. Speeding and drunk driving remain the leading causes of road crashes, accounting for 44.40% and 24.90% of incidents respectively. Poor visibility contributed to 14.52% of the crashes. Motorcycles were involved in a staggering 77.20% of all crashes, with most incidents occurring on straight roads (85.89%), particularly on highways and rural village roads. Crashes were most frequent during the late afternoon and evening, especially between 15:00 and 18:00. The age group most affected was 30–39 years, accounting for over 20% of casualties. Bangkok recorded the highest number of deaths (13), while Phatthalung reported the highest number of crashes (36) and Lampang the most injuries (40). Notably, 24 provinces reported zero fatalities so far. The Deputy Minister of Education, Surasak Phanchareonworakul, who heads the Songkran safety centre, said overall numbers had declined from last year, showing positive results from stricter enforcement. In response, authorities have intensified efforts to curb risky behaviour through community checkpoints and family-based monitoring systems. Law enforcement agencies have been ordered to strictly enforce traffic laws, especially concerning speeding, traffic signal violations, and illegal alcohol sales, including to minors under 20. In cases where underage individuals are found drinking and driving, police and local officials have been instructed to escort them and their vehicles home to prevent further incidents. Provinces have also been urged to closely monitor public water-splashing activities, prepare for the mass return of travellers to Bangkok and other economic zones, and ensure that public transport is both sufficient and safe. Operators of buses and vans have been instructed to check the mechanical condition of vehicles and screen drivers for alcohol consumption or sedative drug use before duty. The government also called for the establishment of roadside safety and rest stops along major highways to support drivers on long journeys. Deputy Director-General of DDPM, Saharat Wongsakunwiwat, stressed that today, marking the traditional Thai New Year, is the final official day of the Songkran festival, and many are expected to begin travelling back to Bangkok. Authorities are urging drivers to plan ahead, monitor traffic updates, and rest every four hours for at least 30 minutes during their journey. Amid forecasts of thunderstorms and strong winds in many parts of the country, including Bangkok and surrounding provinces, motorists have also been warned to avoid risky travel routes and remain alert to weather-related dangers such as lightning, falling trees, and unstable billboards. Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357731-thailand’s-songkran-road-death-toll-reaches-100-after-just-three-days/ -- 2025-04-15

UPDATE Husband Surrenders After Fatally Shooting Karaoke Bar Owner Wife Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A man has surrendered to police after fatally shooting his wife, the owner of a karaoke bar in Sing Buri province, following a heated argument. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357738-karaoke-bar-owner-found-shot-dead-in-bedroom-husband-missing/#findComment-19732816

UPDATE Husband Surrenders After Fatally Shooting Karaoke Bar Owner Wife Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A man has surrendered to police after fatally shooting his wife, the owner of a karaoke bar in Sing Buri province, following a heated argument. The suspect, identified as Mr. Pramote, turned himself in at Bang Rachan District Police Station at approximately 15:30 on 14 April, accompanied by relatives. The victim, Ms. Ingfah, was found shot dead inside the couple’s home, which is located behind the karaoke bar she owned in the Bang Rachan district. CCTV footage from inside the premises showed that prior to the incident, the couple had been arguing. Investigators said that Mr. Pramote became enraged after being verbally abused by his wife. He then reportedly dragged her into the bedroom and shot her before fleeing the scene. Following his surrender, Mr. Pramote was questioned by police for over two hours. Pol. Col. Chaiwat Kiatkongkamchai, Deputy Commander of Sing Buri Provincial Police, stated that the suspect confessed to the crime, claiming he acted out of anger and emotional distress. Later in the day, officers escorted Mr. Pramote to the scene of the crime to re-enact the events as part of the investigative process, a standard procedure in Thai criminal investigations. Authorities have charged Mr. Pramote with murder. -- 2025-04-15

‘Magic 2025’ Campaign Aims to Boost Indian Visitor Numbers to Thailand Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A major corporate tourism initiative titled Magic 2025 is currently underway at IMPACT Arena, Muang Thong Thani, as Thailand looks to attract a record number of Indian visitors this year. Hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in collaboration with India’s Zebra Events & Exhibition Pvt. Ltd., the event runs from 11 to 15 April and welcomes 10,000 Indian direct marketing sales representatives. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357790-‘magic-2025’-campaign-aims-to-boost-indian-visitor-numbers-to-thailand/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A major corporate tourism initiative titled Magic 2025 is currently underway at IMPACT Arena, Muang Thong Thani, as Thailand looks to attract a record number of Indian visitors this year. Hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in collaboration with India’s Zebra Events & Exhibition Pvt. Ltd., the event runs from 11 to 15 April and welcomes 10,000 Indian direct marketing sales representatives. The programme, which promotes Thailand as a premier destination for high-spending corporate travellers, includes training on lifestyle and tourism products. Police Major General Pongsayam Meekhanthong, Deputy Commissioner of the Tourist Police, welcomed participants at the official opening ceremony held at Challenger Hall. Part of TAT’s wider efforts to position Thailand as a top-tier MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) hub, Magic 2025 is seen as a strategic move to expand the corporate tourism market and enhance long-term tourism spending. India is now one of Thailand’s most vital tourism markets, with a record-breaking 2.1 million Indian arrivals recorded in 2024. Between 1 January and 9 April 2025, Thailand has already welcomed 597,709 Indian tourists, over two-thirds of whom were first-time visitors. Independent travellers made up 75.2% of arrivals, while 24.8% visited as part of organised tour groups. Indian tourists travel to Thailand for a range of reasons, from leisure and business to weddings and special celebrations. Travel peaks during India’s major holiday seasons, especially January to February and December, with significant numbers arriving from northern and northeastern states. Popular Thai destinations among Indian travellers include Bangkok, Chonburi, Phuket, Krabi, and Surat Thani, each catering to diverse groups such as families, millennial tourists, wellness enthusiasts, golf holidaymakers, honeymooners, and emerging demographics like solo women travellers, senior citizens, and adventure tourists. During the Songkran period, participants in Magic 2025 are also taking part in the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2025, supporting the “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025” campaign. Thailand’s appeal to the Indian market is buoyed by a number of favourable factors. India’s rising population, coupled with evolving consumer trends that favour lifestyle spending and frequent overseas travel, has significantly contributed to increased interest in Thailand. A major facilitator has been the 60-day visa exemption for Indian tourists, which came into effect on 15 July 2024. This policy has simplified entry procedures and opened the door for more high-quality, repeat visitors. With this supportive landscape, TAT has set an ambitious target of welcoming 2.3 million Indian visitors in 2025, aiming to generate tourism revenue of 101.6 billion baht. -- 2025-04-15

Brawl in Pattaya as Alleged Taxi Enforcers Assaults Indian Tourist Picture courtesy of SiamChon. Authorities have been urged to investigate a street brawl in Pattaya that was widely circulated on social media, showing some Thai men, allegedly local taxi or songthaew queue enforcer, attacking a foreign tourist near the entrance to the city’s Walking Street. Full story and video:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357771-brawl-in-pattaya-as-alleged-taxi-enforcers-assaults-indian-tourist/

Picture courtesy of SiamChon. Authorities have been urged to investigate a street brawl in Pattaya that was widely circulated on social media, showing some Thai men, allegedly local taxi or songthaew queue enforcer, attacking a foreign tourist near the entrance to the city’s Walking Street. The incident, which took place along Pattaya Beach Road in South Pattaya, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province, was captured in a 40-second video clip posted by Facebook user “Tanyong Tanyong” in the popular “Pattaya Talk” group. The caption read simply, “Oh my God,” as the footage quickly went viral, drawing widespread criticism and condemnation. In the video, a man wearing what appeared to be motorcycle taxi vest, with others, are seen throwing punches at a man believed to be an Indian tourist. The assault took place in full view of passersby, other tourists, and traffic, without apparent concern for public decency or legal consequences. Witnesses speculated that the attackers may be part of a group who work in the area enticing tourists onto local transport services, a practice often associated with turf disputes and extortion in Thailand’s tourist hotspots. Critics have called attention to the fact that the assailants’ motorcycle taxi vests did not appear to show any identifying numbers or officially registered stand locations, raising questions about the legitimacy of the operation. Officials have been urged to investigate whether the individual involved was a licensed operator and to clarify what measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. Pattaya authorities have not yet issued a formal statement. The video continues to spark intense online debate, with many users demanding stricter regulation and enforcement against so-called “mafia-style” behaviour in tourist areas. -- 2025-04-15 ScreenRecording_04-15-2025 05-15-16_1.mp4

Pickup Truck Ploughs Through Songkran Revellers, Injuring Nearly 20, Driver Beaten by Mob Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A shocking incident marred Songkran celebrations in Chachoengsao province on 14 April when a pickup truck driver rammed through a large crowd of water festival revellers, injuring nearly 20 people, six of them seriously. The chaotic aftermath saw an enraged crowd of over a hundred people drag the driver from the vehicle and beat him severely before police arrived. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357769-pickup-truck-ploughs-through-songkran-revellers-injuring-nearly-20-driver-beaten-by-mob/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A shocking incident marred Songkran celebrations in Chachoengsao province on 14 April when a pickup truck driver rammed through a large crowd of water festival revellers, injuring nearly 20 people, six of them seriously. The chaotic aftermath saw an enraged crowd of over a hundred people drag the driver from the vehicle and beat him severely before police arrived. The incident occurred around 19:20, in Ban Khlong Udom, Thung Phraya subdistrict, Sanam Chai Khet district. A Facebook user, “Nattawut Yongkul,” who was at the scene, shared photos and a video of the horrific moment the vehicle ploughed into people who were celebrating in the street. Witnesses reported that one person was trapped beneath the vehicle. Locals rushed in to lift the pickup off the victim and tend to the wounded while urgently calling for ambulances. Emergency services were eventually able to reach the scene and transport the injured to nearby hospitals. The driver’s motives remain unclear, but according to onlookers, he appeared to deliberately speed into the crowd. As panic turned to fury, the crowd smashed the truck’s windows and attacked the man inside. Video footage shows several people trying to restrain others from inflicting further harm while waiting for the police. The driver was eventually rescued from the mob by authorities and taken into custody. An investigation is now underway to determine whether the act was intentional or due to reckless driving under the influence. Local police have appealed for calm and urged the public to let justice take its course through legal channels. -- 2025-04-15

Elderly Man, 82, Dies After Being Caught in Blaze While Burning Rice Stubble in Surin An 82-year-old man lost his life after being overcome by smoke and flames while burning rice stubble in a field near his home in Surin province. The incident occurred on 14 April, despite repeated warnings from family members not to engage in the dangerous activity. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357768-elderly-man-82-dies-after-being-caught-in-blaze-while-burning-rice-stubble-in-surin/

Picture from responders. An 82-year-old man lost his life after being overcome by smoke and flames while burning rice stubble in a field near his home in Surin province. The incident occurred on 14 April, despite repeated warnings from family members not to engage in the dangerous activity. Police Lieutenant Thienthip Uthes, deputy investigator at Phianram Police Station in Mueang District, together with forensic doctors from Surin Hospital and rescue workers, responded to the scene in Ban Nadi, Village No. 1, Nadi subdistrict. The man, identified as Mr. Kaew, was found face-down and severely burned approximately 500 metres from the main road, in the middle of a rice field. His body was sent to Surin Hospital for a post-mortem examination in accordance with legal procedures. According to Ms. Somrak, a relative of the deceased, Mr. Kaew had a habit of burning rice stubble in the fields and had already been rescued twice in previous incidents. Despite repeated pleas from his family to stop, he insisted on continuing the practice. On this occasion, he left home early in the morning to burn the stubble once more. The rescue team from Nadi revealed that in the past, Mr. Kaew had accidentally allowed flames to spread to neighbouring fields. In those instances, he had attempted to extinguish the fire himself using tree branches, fearing he would be blamed by nearby farmers. The team believed that once again the fire may have spread, and in his effort to stop it, he succumbed to smoke inhalation and collapsed. No one was nearby to help, as most villagers were attending a local Songkran festival at the temple. By the time Mr. Kaew was found, it was too late, he had already died. Authorities have urged the public, particularly the elderly, to avoid burning agricultural waste during the dry season due to the high risk of uncontrollable fires and harmful smoke. -- 2025-04-15

Doi Pha Hom Pok National Park Ranger Dies While Battling Forest Fire Picture courtesy of Daily News. An officer from Doi Pha Hom Pok National Park has died in the line of duty while helping to extinguish a forest fire in Chiang Mai’s Fang district. The officer, identified as Mr. Pongdanai Jaipik, went missing during operations and was later found deceased. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357767-doi-pha-hom-pok-national-park-ranger-dies-while-battling-forest-fire/

Picture courtesy of Daily News. An officer from Doi Pha Hom Pok National Park has died in the line of duty while helping to extinguish a forest fire in Chiang Mai’s Fang district. The officer, identified as Mr. Pongdanai Jaipik, went missing during operations and was later found deceased. The incident occurred in the area surrounding Ban Huai Mayom, Village 13, in the Wiang subdistrict. Mr. Pongdanai was last seen at around 13:00 on 13 April while taking part in firefighting efforts. As the blaze began to subside and the team made their way back, heavy rain started to fall, during which time Mr. Pongdanai became separated from his group. Search and rescue operations were immediately launched by rangers, soldiers, forestry officials, and local administrators. Volunteers from nearby communities, including Ban Huai Bon and Ban Huai Mayom, also joined the search. Initial efforts were hampered by worsening weather conditions, with rain and darkness forcing teams to temporarily withdraw. On the morning of 14 April, a large-scale operation resumed. Sadly, the body of Mr. Pongdanai was discovered later that day. His motorcycle had previously been found abandoned, but no signs of his whereabouts were apparent until the renewed search. Mr. Narongrit Klin Sawang, head of the Doi Pha Hom Pok fire control station, confirmed that the fire had initially broken out on 13 April. Mr. Pongdanai had actively participated in the suppression effort, and it was only during the return journey, amidst deteriorating conditions, that the separation occurred. Following the discovery of his body, officials coordinated with police for forensic examination and are proceeding with all necessary legal protocols. The Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, Mr. Atthaphon Charoenchansa, expressed his deepest condolences over the loss of a dedicated officer who gave his life in service to the nation’s forests. He has ordered all relevant departments to provide full support to Mr. Pongdanai’s family, including funeral arrangements, welfare benefits, and emotional support. In a statement, Mr. Atthaphon also urged all rangers and forest protection personnel to prioritise safety in their operations and acknowledged the immense risks they face in protecting Thailand’s natural heritage. He extended his heartfelt gratitude and encouragement to all those continuing to serve under such challenging and dangerous conditions. -- 2025-04-15

Elderly Man, 82, Dies After Motorcycle Collides with Pickup Truck in Lopburi Picture from responders. An 82-year-old man lost his life following a road collision in Lopburi province on 14 April. The elderly man was riding a red and black Yamaha motorcycle when he reportedly pulled out in front of an oncoming pickup truck, resulting in a fatal collision. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357766-elderly-man-82-dies-after-motorcycle-collides-with-pickup-truck-in-lopburi/

Picture from responders. An 82-year-old man lost his life following a road collision in Lopburi province on 14 April. The elderly man was riding a red and black Yamaha motorcycle when he reportedly pulled out in front of an oncoming pickup truck, resulting in a fatal collision. Police Lieutenant Colonel Bancha Chobtham, deputy investigator at Phatthana Nikhom Police Station, along with rescue volunteers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, responded to the incident at the intersection of Soi 13, Road 4, Village No. 8, in the Chong Sarika sub-district of Phatthana Nikhom District. Upon arrival, officers found the motorcycle lying overturned down a roadside bank. Nearby was the body of the deceased man, later identified as Mr. Sanga, a local resident of Chong Sarika. His injuries were consistent with a high-impact crash, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Also present at the scene was a grey Isuzu pickup truck with minor damage to the front left bumper. The driver of the pickup, Mr. Udon 53, explained that he had been en route to Dong Phaya Yen Waterfall with family members when the collision occurred. According to his account, as he approached the intersection, the motorcycle suddenly emerged from Soi 13, cutting across his path. Despite attempting to brake, he was unable to stop in time and collided with the motorbike, causing both rider and vehicle to be thrown off the road. Authorities have since examined the scene and instructed rescue workers to transfer the deceased to Phatthana Nikhom Hospital for further procedures. The investigation into the incident is ongoing. -- 2025-04-15

Indian Attacked by Thai Girlfriend After Alleged Assault in Pattaya Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A violent domestic dispute in Pattaya has left an Indian national hospitalised after his Thai girlfriend allegedly stabbed him with a piece of broken glass during a heated altercation in the early hours of 14 April. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357753-indian-attacked-by-thai-girlfriend-after-alleged-assault-in-pattaya/

UPDATE Fugitive Myanmar Prisoner Arrested for Murder-Robbery in Pathum Thani After 7 Years on the Run Picture courtesy of ThaiRath A 47-year-old Myanmar national has been arrested for the murder and robbery of a Thai man in Pathum Thani province. The suspect, identified as Mr. Maekkarin Tin Hmong Win, using the alias “Nai Nai” while in Thailand, was revealed to be an escaped convict who had been on the run for over seven years following a dramatic prison break in Myanmar. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357565-husband-fatally-stabbed-while-protecting-wife-in-roadside-robbery/#findComment-19731868

UPDATE Man Shot Dead Over Stolen Cattle - Suspect Confesses to Revenge Killing Picture courtesy of SiamChon. Police have arrested a suspect in connection with the fatal shooting of a 53-year-old cattle owner, in what investigators believe was a revenge attack sparked by accusations of cattle theft. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357706-brutal-showdown-ends-in-cold-blooded-killing-over-missing-cattle/#findComment-19731862

Thaksin Reveals Malaysian PM Anwar to Visit Thailand on 17 April File picture for reference only. Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has confirmed that Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will visit Thailand on 17 April, as part of a broader ASEAN initiative aimed at strengthening regional unity and engaging in constructive dialogue with the United States. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357752-thaksin-reveals-malaysian-pm-anwar-to-visit-thailand on-17-april/

Immigration Crackdown Nets 191 Foreign Offenders in Pattaya Area Picture courtesy of TMN. Deputy National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Thana Chuwong ordered an intensified nationwide crackdown on illegal immigration and related offences in the lead-up to the 2025 Songkran holiday, as part of efforts to enhance public safety during the festival period. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357751-immigration-crackdown-nets-191-foreign-offenders-in-pattaya-area/

Man Drowns After Songkran Celebration in Saraburi Picture courtesy of Siam News. A 60-year-old man lost his life early morning on 14 April, after reportedly falling into a large pond in Kaeng Khoi district, Saraburi Province, following a night of heavy drinking to celebrate Songkran. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357750-man-drowns-after-songkran-celebration-in-saraburi/

Woman Dies After Rice Field Blaze in Udon Thani Picture courtesy of Khomchadluek. An incident unfolded in the village of Kut Kha, Thung Fon District, Udon Thani Province, where a 59-year-old woman, known locally as “Pa Joy”, died after being engulfed in flames while attempting to extinguish a fire that broke out in a rice field. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357749-woman-dies-after-rice-field-blaze-in-udon-thani/