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UPDATE Picture of arrest. Police have captured a fugitive known as “Ploen,” who was wanted for dousing a watermelon vendor in petrol and setting him alight at a temple in the Rama III area. The suspect was apprehended at a border petrol station in Mukdahan while attempting to flee the country with a smuggling gang. The shocking incident, which took place at a temple in Rama III, left 52-year-old fruit vendor Rachen with severe burns covering over 80% of his body. He was rushed to Charoenkrung Pracharak Hospital in critical condition but later succumbed to his injuries. Following an intense manhunt, police from Mukdahan Provincial Police, led by Pol. Col. Pairoj Thaiphutra, acting commander of Mukdahan Provincial Police, tracked down and arrested the suspect at approximately 20:30 on February 11. The fugitive, identified as 46-year-old Akkakorn, also known as “Ploen,” was the ex-husband of the victim’s wife. Police officers, acting on intelligence, found the suspect at a PTT petrol station in Kham Ahuan, Mueang Mukdahan district. He was preparing to cross the border with a group involved in smuggling contraband onions. Upon arrest, Akkakorn confessed to his crimes without resistance and confirmed his identity as the suspect sought in the high-profile case. He has since been taken into custody at Mueang Mukdahan Police Station and will be transferred to Bang Phongphang Police Station, which is handling the case, for further legal proceedings. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading to the brutal attack and are working to determine whether others were involved in aiding the suspect’s escape attempt. Related article; https://aseannow.com/topic/1351239-man-sets-victim-on-fire-in-alleged-jealousy-fuelled-attack/ -- 2025-02-12

Russian Tourist Dies After Sliding into the Sea from Tour Boat in Pattaya Pictures courtesy of SiamChon. A 33-year-old Russian tourist lost his life after sliding from a water slide at the rear of a tour boat near Koh Sak, off the coast of Pattaya. The incident occurred around 17.00 on 11 February, when rescue teams were dispatched to assist after the man lost consciousness following a hard impact with the water. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351541-russian-tourist-dies-after-sliding-into-the-sea-from-tour-boat-in-pattaya/

Pictures courtesy of SiamChon. A 33-year-old Russian tourist lost his life after sliding from a water slide at the rear of a tour boat near Koh Sak, off the coast of Pattaya. The incident occurred around 17.00 on 11 February, when rescue teams were dispatched to assist after the man lost consciousness following a hard impact with the water. Rescue personnel from Pattaya’s marine disaster response team and the Sawang Boriboon Foundation rushed to the scene by speedboat. Upon arrival, they found the tourist, identified as Mr. Andrew Anganov, lying unconscious without a pulse on the deck of a large tour boat near Koh Sak. Weighing over 100kg, the man had reportedly gone down the slide into the sea before climbing back onto the boat, complaining of severe back pain. Moments later, he collapsed and lost consciousness. Rescue workers immediately performed CPR in an attempt to revive him while transferring him to a speedboat for urgent transport back to Pattaya. Upon reaching the shore, medical teams continued resuscitation efforts and transferred him to Pattaya City Hospital. Despite their best efforts, he was pronounced dead. A crew member of the tour boat, a 25-year-old Myanmar national named Ni, reported that the deceased had been part of a tour group visiting Koh Sak for swimming and water activities. After using the slide, he appeared to suffer a severe impact upon hitting the water. He managed to climb back on board but soon complained of intense back pain before collapsing. The boat’s captain immediately contacted emergency services. Tourist police, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Suparat Meepricha, arrived to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death. Initial findings confirmed that the tourist had only arrived in Pattaya on 9 February and had joined the tour boat trip that day. Due to his large build, investigators believe he may have suffered serious injuries upon hitting the water, leading to his loss of consciousness and subsequent death. However, authorities have ordered a full autopsy at the Institute of Forensic Medicine, Police General Hospital, in Bangkok to determine the exact cause of death. Further investigations will be conducted by Pattaya City Police. -- 2025-02-12

Bangkok Bus Skids, Hits Cable, Front Wheels Lift Three Metres in Air Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Dramatic footage has captured the moment an air-conditioned bus on route 167 lost control and crashed into a power pole support cable, causing its front wheels to lift over three metres off the ground. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351539-bangkok-bus-skids-hits-cable-front-wheels-lift-three-metres-in-air/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Dramatic footage has captured the moment an air-conditioned bus on route 167 lost control and crashed into a power pole support cable, causing its front wheels to lift over three metres off the ground. The crash occurred near the Maihai Sawan intersection in Bangkok’s Thonburi district as the bright orange bus, travelling between Rama II Housing Estate and Lumpini Park, approached Somdet Phra Chao Taksin Road. Traffic police from Bukkhalo Police Station responded to the scene and found the bus’s front wheels suspended in the air, with its left-side mirror hooked onto the thick steel cable securing a electricity pole. Fortunately, no serious injuries or fatalities were reported. The bus driver, identified as 34-year-old Ms. Apinya explained that she had been driving down from the Krungthep Bridge and was navigating a curve towards Chom Thong Road when she suddenly encountered an oil slick. “The front wheels lost grip and the bus swerved uncontrollably, crashing into the cable. If I had tried to steer in another direction, it could have been much worse,” she stated, adding that only three passengers were on board at the time. Following the incident, a Facebook user uploaded dashcam footage of the crash, showing the moment the bus lost control and lifted into the air. The video has since gained over 170,000 views, with many viewers commenting on the driver’s quick thinking in preventing a more serious incident. Authorities are now investigating the cause of the oil spill, while efforts are underway to ensure the road remains safe for other motorists. -- 2025-02-12

One Dead in Shootout After Failed Motorcycle Theft in Bangkok A violent confrontation in Bangkok’s Bang Khen District has left one suspect dead following a failed motorcycle theft. The incident occurred during the morning of 11 February, when two suspects attempted to steal a motorcycle. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351538-one-dead-in-shootout-after-failed-motorcycle-theft-in-bangkok/

Pictures from responders. A violent confrontation in Bangkok’s Bang Khen District has left one suspect dead following a failed motorcycle theft. The incident occurred during the morning of 11 February, when two suspects attempted to steal a motorcycle. At approximately 11:00, officers from the Khan Na Yao Police Station had gathered intelligence about a group of thieves known for stealing motorcycles in the area. They set up a sting operation at an underpass near Soi Wat Siriphong. The suspects, two men dressed in black and wearing full-face helmets, were seen riding a Yamaha XMAX before attempting to steal a Honda Wave 125. As the officers moved in to arrest the suspects, one pulled out a firearm and opened fire at the police. In response, the officers fired two shots at the suspect riding on the back of the motorcycle, hitting him in the head and thigh. The suspect fell to the ground and was later pronounced dead at the scene. The second suspect managed to flee the scene on the motorcycle. Shortly after the incident, the stolen motorcycle was discovered abandoned nearby. Police have launched a manhunt for the second suspect, whose identity remains unknown. The dead suspect was identified as Suphach, aged 24, who had been involved in several similar thefts in the past. Police found his body at the scene with gunshot wounds to his head and thigh. The Honda Wave he had attempted to steal was left behind. Suphach’s wife, who is nine months pregnant, arrived at the scene in tears. Speaking to reporters, she expressed shock and disbelief, stating that her husband had never been involved in criminal activities before. She described him as a hardworking man who had a shop selling household goods. “We’re about to have our first child, and now we’ve lost the breadwinner,” she said, grieving the loss of her husband. The incident has raised concerns over the increasing levels of violent crime in the capital. Authorities have pledged to intensify efforts to track down the remaining suspect. Meanwhile, Suphach’s family is calling for justice, questioning why the police chose to use lethal force rather than arrest the suspects. The owner of the stolen motorcycle, Aung, a 20-year-old Myanmar national, was later informed by the police that his bike had been recovered. He expressed gratitude for the return of his property but was disturbed by the escalation of events that led to the shootout. “I never expected things to escalate this way,” he said, adding that he forgave the suspects for their actions. -- 2025-02-12

Nonthaburi: Concrete Mixer Truck Collides with Motorcycle, Child Dies and Man Seriously Hurt At approximately 17:30 on February 10, the Rattanathibet Police Station received a report of a collision between a concrete mixer truck and a motorcycle on the road in front of the Business Administration University, heading towards the Phong Phet intersection, opposite Soi Prachachuen in Nonthaburi. The incident resulted in one person being critically injured and a seven-year-old child tragically losing his life. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351535-nonthaburi-concrete-mixer-truck-collides-with-motorcycle-child-dies-and-man-seriously-hurt/

Pictures from responders. At approximately 17:30 on February 10, the Rattanathibet Police Station received a report of a collision between a concrete mixer truck and a motorcycle on the road in front of the Business Administration University, heading towards the Phong Phet intersection, opposite Soi Prachachuen in Nonthaburi. The incident resulted in one person being critically injured and a seven-year-old child tragically losing his life. Authorities, including medical officers and the Ruamkatanyu Foundation rescue team, quickly arrived at the scene to investigate. The horrifying moment was captured on a dashcam by a motorist travelling in the opposite lane. The footage shows the concrete mixer truck veering into the right lane, heading towards the Phong Phet intersection, before colliding with the motorcycle. The impact caused the rider to be thrown into the middle of the road, while the child, lying motionless in a pool of blood, was discovered near a black car. The crash occurred on a two-lane road (heading towards the Phong Phet intersection), where the injured motorcyclist, identified as 20-year-old Natee, was found in serious condition. He was later taken to Kasemrad Hospital in Prachachuen after being treated at the scene by rescue workers. Nearby, the body of the young boy, identified as 7-year-old Nattaphat, a student at the Khao Tham Thai Housing School, was found in his school uniform, lying lifeless on his side. The motorcycle, a white-and-red Yamaha Mio, was overturned about 10 metres away, while the yellow Hino concrete mixer truck was parked on the side of the road. The driver, who was waiting for authorities, declined to speak with reporters but is currently assisting police with their investigation. Anuwat, the child’s uncle, spoke to the press, expressing his heartbreak. “The motorcyclist is my younger brother, and he is currently in critical condition in ICU on a ventilator. My nephew, who had just finished school, was being picked up and was so close to home. I want the authorities to check if the truck driver was under the influence of alcohol and whether his vehicle’s documentation is valid. The driver did not even come over to check on my brother and nephew after the accident. I believe the truck was running later than the law permits. I want the driver to take responsibility for what happened. We are devastated. My nephew was a good boy, and he had his whole life ahead of him.” An eyewitness, a woman referred to as Miss A, recalled the moment of the crash. “I was returning home and saw the truck coming from the direction of the university entrance, speeding in the right lane. I didn’t see where the motorcycle came from, but I heard the crash, and the rider was thrown into the middle of the road, while the child was thrown closer to the front of my car. I was deeply saddened by what I saw. If this had been my own child, I can’t imagine how heartbreaking it would be.” Amarin Jarutamra, the director of the Lak Si District, also expressed his condolences. “I am deeply saddened by the loss of little Nattaphat. No one expected such a tragedy to occur. The district office and the school are working together to console the parents. The school has provided life insurance for the students. As for the truck driver, he did not flee the scene and has been taken into custody by the police.” The police are currently reviewing evidence from the scene, including footage from nearby CCTV cameras and dash-cam, to determine the exact cause of the collision. -- 2025-02-12

Man Killed by Wild Elephant in Palm Plantation Incident A incident occurred in Khao Sam Roi Yot District, when a 67-year-old man was fatally crushed by a wild elephant while inspecting his palm plantation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351534-man-killed-by-wild-elephant-in-palm-plantation-incident/

Picture from responders. A incident occurred in Khao Sam Roi Yot District, when a 67-year-old man was fatally crushed by a wild elephant while inspecting his palm plantation. On February 11, Anuchat Atthahan, the head of Kui Buri National Park, confirmed the death of Chaliyo from Sam Roi Yot District, who was found lying on his back with severe injuries after being trampled by an elephant. The attack took place outside the boundaries of Kui Buri National Park, at a palm plantation in Ban Lak Lor, Sao Lai Subdistrict, Prachuap Khiri Khan. Officials were alerted to the situation when a report from the park’s patrol unit indicated a fatal elephant attack. Upon arriving at the scene, officers and emergency services found the man’s body with substantial injuries to his chest, head, and left hip. Traces of elephant tracks were found scattered throughout the plantation, confirming the involvement of the wild animal. The man had reportedly gone into the plantation to check on its condition when he unexpectedly encountered the elephant, which had entered the area to forage. He was unable to flee in time, resulting in the fatal attack. The authorities are now investigating the incident further, and the body was transported to “ for a formal examination. Local officials have expressed their condolences, while wildlife authorities are continuing to monitor the area for any additional encounters between humans and elephants. This incident highlights ongoing challenges with wild elephant populations and their interactions with local communities in the region. -- 2025-02-12

Massive Fire Destroys Paper Factory in Chonburi, Building Collapses A major fire engulfed a paper factory in Ban Bueng district, Chonburi, early morning on 11 February, causing the building to collapse and destroying all machinery inside. Firefighters battled the intense blaze for hours, but the structure was completely gutted. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351533-massive-fire-destroys-paper-factory-in-chonburi-building-collapses/

Picture from responders. A major fire engulfed a paper factory in Ban Bueng district, Chonburi, early morning on 11 February, causing the building to collapse and destroying all machinery inside. Firefighters battled the intense blaze for hours, but the structure was completely gutted. At around 06:00, local police in Ban Bueng were alerted to the fire at a factory located in Moo 3, Ban Bueng subdistrict. Fire crews from nearby municipalities were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, they found the factory engulfed in flames, with more than ten fire engines working to contain the fire. Large quantities of stored paper acted as fuel, intensifying the blaze and causing the building’s structure to weaken and eventually collapse. Heavy machinery inside the factory was also destroyed. Authorities have yet to assess the total damage, as investigators from the Chonburi Forensic Department are still inspecting the site. Initial reports suggest that the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit. Ban Bueng District Chief, Lieutenant Sarawut Kornjiracharoen, stated that emergency teams had to demolish parts of the walls and use a backhoe to spread out the burning paper stacks to prevent the fire from reigniting. Officials are working closely with the factory owners to determine the extent of the damage and identify the exact cause of the blaze. -- 2025-02-12

Ten-Wheel Truck Loses Control, Crashes into Three Vehicles Before Plunging Off Hill A road crash occurred at approximately 11:00 on 11 February, when a ten-wheel Isuzu truck driver, registered in Nakhon Si Thammarat, lost control while descending Phu Khao Thong in Chang Klang District. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351532-ten-wheel-truck-loses-control-crashes-into-three-vehicles-before-plunging-off-hill/

Pictures from responders. A road crash occurred at approximately 11:00 on 11 February, when a ten-wheel Isuzu truck driver, registered in Nakhon Si Thammarat, lost control while descending Phu Khao Thong in Chang Klang District. The truck, carrying a load of asphalt, was travelling from Lan Saka District and heading towards Chang Klang when the driver lost control on the steep descent. The out-of-control vehicle collided with a pickup truck and two car travelling in the opposite direction. In a desperate attempt to regain control, the driver swerved sharply, causing the truck to crash into a roadside electricity pole before plunging approximately 10 metres down the hillside. The driver managed to climb back up to the road but succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter. Meanwhile, four individuals from the damaged vehicles sustained injuries and were transported to Lan Saka Hospital and Phra Thon Khlai Wachasit Hospital for treatment. Emergency responders from Chang Klang Police Station, the Tai Tek Tung Rescue Unit, and the Sawang Tham Khiri Foundation in Lan Saka were quickly dispatched to assist at the scene. Authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash and will proceed with legal procedures accordingly. -- 2025-02-12

Pattaya: Drunken Man Attacks Girlfriend After Seeing Her Video Call with Foreign Lover A man in Pattaya flew into a drunken rage and assaulted his long-term girlfriend after catching her video calling a foreign man, leaving her with head injuries. The violent incident occurred at around 01:00 on 11 February, at an apartment complex in Soi Sukhumvit 75, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351531-pattaya-drunken-man-attacks-girlfriend-after-seeing-her-video-call-with-foreign-lover/

Picture from responders. A man in Pattaya flew into a drunken rage and assaulted his long-term girlfriend after catching her video calling a foreign man, leaving her with head injuries. The violent incident occurred at around 01:00 on 11 February, at an apartment complex in Soi Sukhumvit 75, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi. Rescue workers from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation responded to reports of an assault and arrived at the scene, a three-storey apartment building. In room 106 on the ground floor, they found the injured woman, identified only as Ms A 25, visibly shaken and dressed in pink nightwear. She had a swollen head and a minor cut on her right eyebrow. Medics provided first aid before transporting her to hospital. Outside the room, broken wooden planks lay scattered on the parking area, evidence of the attack. According to Ms A, the attacker was her boyfriend of nearly seven years, Mr Wayu Daoruang, 23, who had been drinking before the assault. She said he became violent after seeing her video chatting with a foreign man, chasing and striking her with a wooden plank before she managed to escape and seek help from neighbours. When police arrived, they found Mr Wayu in a highly emotional and intoxicated state, crying uncontrollably. After some persuasion, he admitted to the attack, claiming he had been struggling for the past year with suspicions that his girlfriend was in a relationship with the foreign man. He said he had repeatedly asked her to end the affair but felt ignored and sidelined in their relationship. Seeing the video call while drunk pushed him over the edge. A friend of the suspect revealed that the couple had been on and off multiple times due to frequent fights, adding that they preferred to stay out of the matter as the pair often reconciled soon after arguments. Police are now investigating the incident and considering legal action against Mr Wayu. -- 2025-02-12

Authorities Inspect Thonburi Canal Routes to Enhance Tourist Safety Picture courtesy of Matichon. Authorities in Bangkok have conducted a comprehensive inspection of Thonburi’s canal tourism routes to assess conditions, identify challenges, and propose improvements aimed at enhancing safety and boosting visitor confidence. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351530-authorities-inspect-thonburi-canal-routes-to-enhance-tourist-safety/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Authorities in Bangkok have conducted a comprehensive inspection of Thonburi’s canal tourism routes to assess conditions, identify challenges, and propose improvements aimed at enhancing safety and boosting visitor confidence. The initiative, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Jirapat Kheawsiri, Deputy Superintendent of the Tourism Police Division 3 (Thonburi Tourist Police), involved key stakeholders, including Apichart Patcharapinyopong, President of the Thai Boat Association, Chanyut Sawetsuwan, Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Bangkok Office, the Marine Police, the Marine Department, and other relevant agencies. The inspection covered key waterway attractions such as Khlong Bangkok Yai, Khlong Bangkok Noi, Taling Chan Floating Market, and Song Khlong Floating Market. Officials assessed the current state of these locations and discussed solutions to improve the overall experience for tourists. Pol. Lt. Col. Jirapat stated that the initiative aligns with the policies of Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-am, Commissioner of the Tourist Police, to ensure the safety of tourists and to enhance the monitoring of tourist sites. The findings will be incorporated into an integrated security plan in collaboration with the Metropolitan Police Bureau. This effort is part of a broader strategy spearheaded by Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet, National Police Chief, to implement government policies aimed at strengthening Thailand’s tourism sector. A Tourist Safety Operations Centre has been established under the Royal Thai Police to oversee these measures and provide coordinated security for visitors. The initiative underscores Thailand’s commitment to maintaining the safety and appeal of its iconic canal tourism experiences, particularly in Thonburi, an area rich in cultural heritage and traditional river life. -- 2025-02-12

Ammonia Leak at Ice Factory in Lopburi Sends 40 to Hospital Panic erupted in Lopburi when a major ammonia leak at an ice factory forced workers and their families to flee to safety. A total of 40 people, including children, were rushed to hospital after inhaling the toxic fumes. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351529-ammonia-leak-at-ice-factory-in-lopburi-sends-40-to-hospital/

Picture from responders. Panic erupted in Lopburi when a major ammonia leak at an ice factory forced workers and their families to flee to safety. A total of 40 people, including children, were rushed to hospital after inhaling the toxic fumes. At around 11:00 on 11 February, Lopburi city police received reports of a strong gas odour coming from an ice factory in Moo 6, located near the Lopburi irrigation canal road in Thaen Yai subdistrict. Police officers, emergency medical teams from Narai Maharaj Hospital, rescue workers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation, and four fire engines were dispatched to the scene. The factory, one of the largest ice producers in Lopburi, was in chaos as workers, many of whom are Burmese migrants, frantically evacuated their families, including sleeping children, to escape the overwhelming ammonia fumes. Most left their belongings behind in their desperate bid for safety. Rescue teams, wearing protective gear were able to contain the leak, and assessed, then transported over 40 affected individuals to Narai Maharaj Hospital. Patients were immediately decontaminated and given medical attention. Authorities cordoned off the hospital’s emergency area to prevent further exposure to other patients. Lopburi municipal chief, Ratchapol Kiattivinaysakul, confirmed that the factory, registered under the name Phromburi 3 Ice Factory, has been temporarily shut down pending a full safety inspection. The factory owner, Uthong Chuangpanich, will be summoned for questioning as investigators work to determine the cause of the gas leak. Among those hospitalised were 22 adults and eight children at Narai Maharaj Hospital, while another ten were treated at Anandamahidol Hospital for less serious effects, bringing the total number of victims to 40. -- 2025-02-12

UPDATE Police Continue to Investigate Murder of Woman Found Naked in Suitcase Pictures courtesy of Khaosod. Police are investigating the shocking discovery of a woman’s naked body stuffed inside a suitcase and weighed down with two 10kg weights before being dumped in a pond in Ban Chang district, Rayong. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351161-body-of-woman-found-stuffed-in-suitcase-in-rayong/page/2/#findComment-19581371

UPDATE Police Continue to Investigate Murder of Woman Found Naked in Suitcase Pictures courtesy of Khaosod. Police are investigating the shocking discovery of a woman’s naked body stuffed inside a suitcase and weighed down with two 10kg weights before being dumped in a pond in Ban Chang district, Rayong. The victim, believed to be around 30 years old, had undergone cosmetic surgery, including breast and nose augmentations. Her body was so badly decomposed that injuries could not immediately be identified, and forensic experts estimate she had been dead for at least ten days. Authorities are focusing on tracing the origins of the woman’s breast implants, which were manufactured in the United States. The silicone implants, size 240cc, bear the serial number 9722614. Investigators are working to identify the clinic or importer that supplied them, hoping it could lead to an identification of the victim. Meanwhile, forensic specialists are attempting to retrieve fingerprints from the decomposed remains, a challenging process that is currently underway. A key witness, a local water spinach collector, reported seeing two vehicles near the pond. He described a white Toyota Fortuner and a white pickup truck, though he could not identify the make of the latter. Assuming the vehicles belonged to local fishermen, he paid little attention at the time. However, police are now working to track these vehicles and determine whether they were connected to the crime. Police divers and bomb disposal officers from the Rayong EOD unit have searched the pond for additional evidence, looking for the victim’s clothing, jewellery, and mobile phone. However, no significant items have been recovered so far. Additionally, CCTV footage from surrounding areas is being reviewed to trace the movements of the suspect(s). Given the gruesome nature of the case, police are treating it as a high-priority investigation. One issue investigators are examining is a potential discrepancy between the witness’s account and the estimated time of death. While the body is believed to have been in the water for around ten days, the witness recalled seeing the vehicles over a month ago. Despite this inconsistency, police are pursuing all possible leads, working to identify the victim and bring those responsible to justice. Police issued notice. -- 2025-02-12

Authorities Raid Three Chinese-Owned Factories for Illegal Recycling Thai authorities have raided three Chinese-owned factories in , Samut Sakhon for illegally recycling old electrical wires and plastic waste, raising serious environmental and fire hazard concerns. The crackdown comes after a similar illegal operation was linked to a factory fire in Ban Phaeo district last month. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351528-authorities-raid-three-chinese-owned-factories-for-illegal-recycling/

Picture courtesy of NRECD Thai authorities have raided three Chinese-owned factories in , Samut Sakhon for illegally recycling old electrical wires and plastic waste, raising serious environmental and fire hazard concerns. The crackdown comes after a similar illegal operation was linked to a factory fire in Ban Phaeo district last month. The operation was led by Pol. Col. Arun Wachirasrisukanya, Deputy Commander of the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Division (NRECD), alongside Pol. Col. Aphisan Chairat, Chief of Sub-Division 5 of the NRECD, officials from the Ministry of Industry, and Samut Sakhon’s industrial department. Authorities targeted three factories suspected of illegally importing and processing electronic and plastic waste from electrical wires. These factories were identified as: • Theng Da Plastic and Metal Co., Ltd. (Bang Ya Phraek Subdistrict) • Unibro Metal (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (Bang Ya Phraek Subdistrict) • Hong Yue Renewable Resources Technology (Thailand) Co., Ltd. (Kalong Subdistrict) During the raid, authorities discovered serious violations at all three sites: • Theng Da Plastic and Metal Co., Ltd. possessed a valid factory permit but was illegally melting plastic waste without notifying authorities. • Unibro Metal (Thailand) Co., Ltd. was found with large amounts of electronic circuit boards, classified as hazardous waste. Both factories were owned by Luo Fuquan, a 39-year-old Chinese national. He was arrested and charged with: • Operating a factory without notifying authorities • Expanding operations without a permit • Processing hazardous waste without authorisation The suspect was taken to Mueang Samut Sakhon Police Station for further legal proceedings. The other factory; • Hong Yue Renewable Resources Technology (Thailand) Co., Ltd. was found melting metal, emitting strong fumes. The factory’s manager, identified as Yee Kwat, failed to comply with previous official orders. She was charged under the Factory Act and also taken into custody. Authorities have vowed to continue cracking down on illegal recycling operations, citing environmental and public safety risks. The three factories are now under investigation for potential links to other illegal waste-importing networks. Related articles; https://aseannow.com/topic/1350253-massive-fire-engulfs-plastic-warehouse-in-samut-sakhon/ https://aseannow.com/topic/1350535-illegal-chinese-owned-recycling-factory-raided-4000-tonnes-of-scrap-wiring-seized/ -- 2025-02-12