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Picture courtesy of ThaiRath A concerning pattern of repeated incidents at 20 pedestrian crossings in Bangkok has come to light, with the majority of these dangerous locations situated near schools and hospitals. The problem was highlighted following a recent incident where a South Korean tourist, aged 68, was injured after being hit by a motorcycle at one such crossing, which had previously witnessed the tragic death of Dr. Waralak Supawatcharirakul, a renowned ophthalmologist, in 2022. The collision took place near the Phumiratchakarn Hospital in the city’s central district. Dr. Supawatcharirakul was fatally struck by a motorcycle while crossing the road. The same crossing has now been the site of further collisions, raising questions about the safety of such locations and the ongoing issue of motorcycle-related incidents in Thailand. Dr. Chamaiphan Santikarn, a former advisor on injury prevention and disability at the World Health Organization (WHO) for Southeast Asia, expressed concern over the lack of solutions to this ongoing issue. She pointed out that despite clear traffic signals being in place at these crossings, collisions continue to occur due to the absence of proper warning systems or speed-reduction measures. In an interview, Dr. Santikarn noted that many drivers, particularly taxi drivers, reported that they were often unaware of pedestrian crossings until it was too late. “There is a lack of traffic signs or devices to alert drivers to slow down,” she explained. She recommended the installation of speed-reducing devices such as Optical Speed Bars (OSB) or rumble strips, which have been proven effective in slowing down traffic in high-risk areas. Rumble strips, for example, are known to reduce accidents in two-lane roads by up to 64% and prevent vehicles from veering off the road by 36%, according to research. Dr. Santikarn emphasised that it is not difficult to implement these measures, citing successful examples from other countries, where such interventions have resulted in an immediate reduction in crashes. Dr. Sasitid Chuchanom, a researcher with the project to drive Thailand towards motorcycle safety, highlighted the example of China’s ELLUMIN Intelligent Pedestrian System. This system enhances pedestrian crossings with additional lighting, sensors, and sound alerts to warn drivers when pedestrians are crossing. Similarly, South Korea has installed Smart Crosswalks equipped with sensors that detect pedestrians, particularly those distracted by their phones, and alert approaching vehicles with flashing lights and sounds. According to recent data from CCTV surveillance, 20 locations across Bangkok continue to see frequent collisions and violations of pedestrian crossing signals. These include crossings near schools and hospitals, such as Bangkok Intercare Hospital, Yothinburana School, Phumiratchakarn Kidney Disease Institute, Chulalongkorn Hospital, and several others across the city. Researchers from the motorcycle safety project plan to collaborate with Dr. Anirut and Mrs. Ratchanee Supawatjariyakul, the parents of Dr. Supawatcharirakul, the Crossing Project team, the media, the Bangkok governor, and other relevant authorities to conduct a thorough survey and investigation of the problems. Together, they aim to recommend and implement effective preventive measures, to provide long-term solutions to improve pedestrian safety at these dangerous crossings. -- 2025-02-09

Picture courtesy of CPPD. Authorities have raided an illegal drug operation supplying dangerous substances commonly used to mix with kratom juice to create the illicit “4x100” cocktail. The raid resulted in the seizure of nearly one million baht worth of controlled drugs and the arrest of a 26-year-old suspect. On February 8, officers from the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD), led by Pol. Col. Pattanachak Bupphasuwan and Pol. Col. Weerapong Klaitong, coordinated with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to carry out the raid. The suspect, identified as Watcharapun was arrested at a residence in Sai Noi District, Nonthaburi. Police seized a significant quantity of illegal drugs, including: • 18,000 tablets of Tramadol (both counterfeit and unregistered versions) • 10,500 bottles of various brands of cough syrup • 1,378 Alprazolam tablets • 14,030 Clonazepam tablets • Various other drug-related paraphernalia The total estimated value of the confiscated drugs was over 900,000 baht. Authorities launched an investigation after discovering a website advertising these dangerous drugs, which are frequently used by young people to mix with kratom juice to produce the intoxicating “4x100” drink. After gathering sufficient evidence, police obtained a search warrant and raided the Nonthaburi residence, where they found the suspect in possession of the illegal substances. During questioning, Watcharapun confessed to selling the drugs online. He admitted to having no formal knowledge of pharmaceuticals, having only completed high school. However, he noticed the growing popularity of 4x100 among young people, who mix kratom juice with cough syrup and Tramadol for a potent narcotic effect. To capitalise on the demand, he purchased drugs from Twitter and Facebook groups before reselling them via various social media platforms. His customer base spanned multiple provinces across Thailand, and he claimed to have been operating the illegal business for about a year, earning between 50,000 and 60,000 baht per month. Watcharapun has been charged with multiple offences, including: • Possession and distribution of controlled substances • Selling pharmaceutical drugs without a licence • Producing counterfeit drugs • Selling unregistered medicines He has been handed over to the CPPD’s Division 4 for further legal proceedings. Authorities have urged the public to report illegal drug sales as they continue to crack down on operations supplying dangerous substances to young people. -- 2025-02-09

Picture from responders. A driver of a ten-wheeler truck, carrying a full load of fresh fish, lost control and veered off the road, crashing into a power pole and breaking it in half. The driver was trapped inside the severely damaged cabin and died at the scene. Rescue workers had to use hydraulic tools to extract his body. On February 8, Pol. Lt. Phairoj Wongthawin, an investigator from Sadao Police Station, received a report of a fatal collision involving a ten-wheeler truck. The crash occurred along Kanjanawanich Road in Ban Samnak Kham, Moo 1, Samnak Kham Subdistrict, Sadao District, Songkhla Province, on the inbound route to the Sadao border checkpoint. Upon arrival, police and rescue teams found the truck, bearing Yala registration number, had veered off the road and struck a power pole. The vehicle also damaged a water pipe, causing water to flood the area. The truck’s cabin was wedged against another power pole, and some of the fish crates had fallen onto the roadside. The driver, identified as Ekaphong Yanai, 38, from Ron Phibun District, Nakhon Si Thammarat, was found crushed inside the cabin. Rescue workers from multiple emergency response units, including Sanmakham Rescue, Maikhom Rescue, and Phatong Therdtham Rescue, spent over an hour using hydraulic cutters to free his body. His remains were later transferred to Padang Besar Hospital, and authorities contacted his family to claim his body. Investigations revealed that the truck belonged to Chok Rompho Thong Transport Co., Ltd. and had been transporting freshly caught seafood from a fishing port in Pattani. The shipment was destined for Malaysia via the Sadao border checkpoint, which was just five kilometres away from the crash site. Police suspect the driver fell asleep at the wheel, causing him to lose control, hit the roadside water pipe, break a power pole, and crash into another pole, leading to his death. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and eyewitness reports to determine whether another vehicle was involved in the crash. Since government infrastructure was damaged, further investigations will be carried out before legal proceedings begin. -- 2025-02-09

Former Russian Beauty Queen Faces Harsh Conditions in Thai Immigration Detention Photo courtesy of Mirror UK In a troubling incident, Alexandra Tikhomirova, a former Little Miss Russia, finds herself in a harrowing predicament in Thailand, reportedly enduring challenging conditions in a notorious Thai detention centre. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351193-former-russian-beauty-queen-faces-harsh-conditions-in-thai-immigration-detention/

to continue: Thailand Live Sunday 9 February 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1351226-thailand-live-sunday-9-february-2025/

UPDATE Police Release Details of Unidentified Woman Found in Suitcase Police are intensifying their investigation into a gruesome discovery after the naked body of a woman was found stuffed inside a suitcase, weighed down with 20kg of weights, near a golf course in Ban Chang, Rayong. The body, in an advanced state of decomposition, is believed to have been there for several days. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351161-body-of-woman-found-stuffed-in-suitcase-in-rayong/#findComment-19573111

UPDATE Police Release Details of Unidentified Woman Found in Suitcase Picture from responders. Police are intensifying their investigation into a gruesome discovery after the naked body of a woman was found stuffed inside a suitcase, weighed down with 20kg of weights, near a golf course in Ban Chang, Rayong. The body, in an advanced state of decomposition, is believed to have been there for several days. Since the discovery on 7 February, over 100 officers from Region 2 Investigations, Rayong Provincial Police, and Ban Chang Police Station have been working around the clock to solve the case. At a press briefing at 13:00 on 8 February, Police Colonel Arthit Yakaew, Superintendent of Ban Chang Police Station, confirmed that investigators are cross-referencing missing persons reports from Rayong and Chonburi. So far, 11 cases have been examined, with seven ruled out, leaving four still under review. “We have also received 4–5 reports from people searching for missing relatives, but none match the victim exactly. The deceased was petite, had black and red hair, and had undergone rhinoplasty, as silicone implants were found in the nose,” Col. Arthit stated. “If anyone has a missing relative with these characteristics, they should contact Ban Chang Police Station immediately.” A missing female caddie, identified only as “Number 22,” who was last seen in Ban Chang two weeks ago, had been suspected as the victim. However, police now believe she is still alive. Due to the condition of the body, it is unclear whether there are visible wounds, and forensic experts at the Police General Hospital are conducting an autopsy to determine the cause of death and confirm the victim’s identity. Police have released key identifying details of the unidentified woman: • Slim build • Black and reddish-brown hair • Estimated age between 25–50 years • Height between 145–160 cm • Underwent rhinoplasty surgery • Estimated time of death: 15–30 days ago Authorities urge anyone with missing relatives matching this description to come forward. The investigation remains ongoing, with officers prioritising victim identification before determining the circumstances surrounding her death. -- 2025-02-08

UPDATE Teen Gang Arrested for Snatching Russian Tourist’s Bag in Pattaya Police in Pattaya have arrested a gang of three teenagers who snatched a Russian tourist’s belongings, including two mobile phones and 4,500 baht in cash, in a late-night robbery. The suspects, aged between 16 and 18, were caught within hours of the crime, which occurred in Soi Wat Boonkanjanaram 8, Pattaya, Bang Lamung, Chonburi. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351179-russian-tourists-robbed-as-handbag-snatched-in-pattaya/#findComment-19572189

UPDATE Teen Gang Arrested for Snatching Russian Tourist’s Bag in Pattaya Picture of arrest Police in Pattaya have arrested a gang of three teenagers who snatched a Russian tourist’s belongings, including two mobile phones and 4,500 baht in cash, in a late-night robbery. The suspects, aged between 16 and 18, were caught within hours of the crime, which occurred in Soi Wat Boonkanjanaram 8, Pattaya, Bang Lamung, Chonburi. Following the incident, which took place during the night of February 7, officers from Pattaya City Police and the Tourist Police launched an intensive manhunt, tracking the suspects to a nearby hideout. At around 04:05 on 8 February, police officers, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Thananon Athapansi and Pol. Lt. Col. Chainarong Jitsuntorn, raided a house in Soi Wat Boonkanjanaram 5, just over a kilometre from the crime scene. Inside, they found the stolen mobile phones, the victim’s passport, and a blue-black Honda Wave 110 motorcycle with a Chonburi licence plate. When officers entered the premises, they discovered the suspects enjoying marijuana and kratom-infused drinks, laughing and chatting without any apparent concern. Police immediately detained them, along with evidence including a bong used for smoking cannabis and bottles of kratom juice. During questioning, the suspects confessed to the crime. One 16-year-old suspect. admitted to driving the motorcycle, while an accomplice also 16, rode in the middle. The 18-year-old suspect sat at the rear and was responsible for snatching the tourist’s bag. They revealed that the stolen money was meant to purchase more cannabis and kratom to mix into a potent drink. Shockingly, they also admitted to being part of the same gang involved in a brutal attack on an 80-year-old Belgian man on Christmas night, December 25, 2024. That incident saw a group of teenagers slash the elderly man’s head with a knife before stealing 7,000 baht. Police had already arrested other members of the gang for that crime. The suspects, along with the stolen items and CCTV footage capturing the robbery, have been handed over to investigators for legal proceedings. The swift response from Pattaya police, which led to the arrests within six hours, has been widely praised by the victims and local residents. The Russian tourist expressed gratitude for the officers efficiency in recovering her belongings and bringing the criminals to justice. Related articles; https://aseannow.com/topic/1347104-belgian-80-attacked-and-robbed-by-teenage-gang-on-christmas-day-in-pattaya/ https://aseannow.com/topic/1347158-pattaya-police-arrest-teenage-gang-after-brutal-attack-on-belgian-tourist/ -- 2025-02-08

Russian Tourists Robbed as Handbag Snatched in Pattaya A Russian tourist and her friends were left shaken after falling victim to a snatch theft in Pattaya, at approximately 22.05 on 7 February, losing cash, mobile phones, and personal documents. Pattaya police launched an urgent manhunt to track down the suspects. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351179-russian-tourists-robbed-as-handbag-snatched-in-pattaya/

Picture courtesy of SiamChon. A Russian tourist and her friends were left shaken after falling victim to a snatch theft in Pattaya, at approximately 22.05 on 7 February, losing cash, mobile phones, and personal documents. Pattaya police launched an urgent manhunt to track down the suspects. The incident occurred in Soi Wat Boon Kanjanaram 8, Pattaya, Bang Lamung. Police Lieutenant Panasarn Khrongsit, Deputy Inspector of Pattaya City Police Station, received the report and quickly informed his superior, Police Colonel Navin Theerawit. Investigators from Pattaya Police and Tourist Police rushed to the scene. Officers found three Russian women in a state of distress, recounting how three young male suspects on a motorcycle rode up alongside them as they were walking back to their accommodation. The men snatched a handbag before speeding away. The stolen items included two mobile phones, 4,500 baht in cash, and important documents. The handbag belonged to Miss Tatiana Miakisheva, a 31-year-old Russian national. She provided police with a photograph of the stolen bag as evidence. Police Colonel Navin Theerawit immediately ordered officers to block possible escape routes and review CCTV footage from the area. The surveillance footage captured images of the suspects matching the victims’ descriptions. Authorities believe the perpetrators have not travelled far and have launched a full-scale search to bring them to justice. -- 2025-02-08

Rescue Team Struggles to Transport 314kg Man to Hospital A volunteer rescue team faced a major challenge when attempting to transport a 30-year-old man weighing 314kg to hospital after he suffered from exhaustion, fever, and weakness. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351178-rescue-team-struggles-to-transport-314kg-man-to-hospital/

Picture from responders. A volunteer rescue team faced a major challenge when attempting to transport a 30-year-old man weighing 314kg to hospital after he suffered from exhaustion, fever, and weakness. The incident occurred on 6 February at a house in Soi Wachirathamsathit 17, Sukhumvit 101/1, in Bangkok’s Phra Khanong district. The man, who has long struggled with severe obesity, required medical care at Sirindhorn Hospital and needed immediate assistance due to breathing difficulties and fatigue. Phongsit Rakkapao, a 29-year-old volunteer from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation’s Bang Na unit, said that upon receiving the emergency call, rescuers arrived to find the man in distress. “He was extremely weak, and moving him was a huge challenge,” Phongsit explained. The team initially requested an Erawan emergency vehicle to assist, but due to his size, they were unable to lift him into the ambulance. A pickup truck was then called in as an alternative, but the patient’s condition made even minor movements difficult. As a last resort, the team asked the man’s father if he knew anyone with a truck having a sliding loading bed. Fortunately, a neighbour was able to provide one. After a gruelling rescue effort lasting four hours, the team carefully manoeuvred the patient onto the slide truck and transported him to Sirindhorn Hospital. Doctors were reportedly shocked by his condition, having never encountered a patient of his weight. However, initial reports from the hospital indicate that his condition is improving. The man’s father, Prayong, 72, revealed that his son had started gaining excessive weight at around the age of four and had never received medical treatment apart from for high blood pressure. He works from home as a craftsman making amulet frames and has led a sedentary lifestyle. Now that he has been admitted to hospital, his father hopes that he will begin a weight-loss programme, incorporating exercise and dietary control. “We are very grateful to the rescue team for their dedication and patience in getting my son to hospital,” Prayong said. -- 2025-02-08

CCTV Captures Motorbike Crashing into Police Vehicle at Junction CCTV footage has captured the moment a motorcycle crashed into a police vehicle at an intersection in Nakhon Ratchasima. Authorities rushed to assist the injured and transport them to hospital. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351177-cctv-captures-motorbike-crashing-into-police-vehicle-at-junction/

Picture captured from CCTV. CCTV footage has captured the moment a motorcycle crashed into a police vehicle at an intersection in Nakhon Ratchasima. Authorities rushed to assist the injured and transport them to hospital. The incident occurred near Phimai Police Station on 7 February. Footage from a security camera outside a local residence recorded a police patrol pickup truck from Phimai Police Station driving through the junction, located just 20 metres from the police station. At the same time, a motorbike carrying a young man and woman, both estimated to be between 20 and 25 years old, approached from a straight road before colliding forcefully with the side of the police vehicle. Both the motorcyclist and their passenger sustained injuries in the crash. Two police officers inside the patrol vehicle immediately exited to check on the injured individuals and contacted emergency medical services from Phimai Hospital. The injured were promptly transported for medical treatment. The impact left visible damage to the police vehicle, with a dented door and a shattered side window. Meanwhile, the front of the motorbike was damaged. An investigation is now underway to determine the exact cause of the collision and whether any legal action will be taken. -- 2025-02-08

Fugitive Arrested After a Decade on the Run, Found Working on Fishing Boat in Phang Nga A fugitive who evaded capture for nearly a decade has been arrested while working as a crew member on a fishing boat in Phang Nga province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351176-fugitive-arrested-after-a-decade-on-the-run-found-working-on-fishing-boat-in-phang-nga/

Picture courtesy of CIB A fugitive who evaded capture for nearly a decade has been arrested while working as a crew member on a fishing boat in Phang Nga province. The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), led by the Water Police Division, apprehended 38-year-old Mr. Thawatchai under an outstanding warrant issued by the Surat Thani Provincial Court on 11 August 2015 (Warrant No. 279/2558). He was wanted for drug-related offences, specifically possession of a Category 1 narcotic (methamphetamine) with intent to distribute, as well as illegal possession of a firearm. Authorities had been tracking Mr. Thawatchai since his time living in Surat Thani, where he was known to be involved in drug-related activities. In an attempt to evade capture, he fled the province and took up work as a fisherman in Phang Nga. Acting on intelligence, officers from Marine Police Station 2, Division 8, located a fishing vessel docked at a fishery in Ban Thap Lamu, Lam Kaen subdistrict, in the Tai Mueang district. Upon boarding the vessel for inspection, they identified Mr. Thawatchai among the crew. The suspect was informed of the outstanding warrant before being taken into custody. He has since been handed over to the relevant authorities for legal proceedings. This arrest marks a success for law enforcement in tracking down a long-term fugitive and reinforces the commitment of Thai authorities to cracking down on drug-related crimes. -- 2025-02-08

Thailand Gears Up for National Tsunami Response Drill Across Six Andaman Provinces Thailand is intensifying its preparations for potential tsunami disasters with a large-scale national crisis management exercise, C-MEX 25, set to take place across six Andaman coastal provinces. The initiative, led by the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) under the Ministry of Interior, aims to enhance the country’s readiness to respond effectively to such natural calamities. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351175-thailand-gears-up-for-national-tsunami-response-drill-across-six-andaman-provinces/

Picture courtesy of DDPM Thailand is intensifying its preparations for potential tsunami disasters with a large-scale national crisis management exercise, C-MEX 25, set to take place across six Andaman coastal provinces. The initiative, led by the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) under the Ministry of Interior, aims to enhance the country’s readiness to respond effectively to such natural calamities. At a preparatory meeting held in Phuket on 7 February, senior officials, including DDPM Director-General Phasakorn Boonyalak, emphasised the importance of maintaining up-to-date and practical emergency response plans. The drill will involve Phuket, Phang Nga, Krabi, Trang, Ranong, and Satun provinces, testing their evacuation strategies and coordination capabilities in the event of a tsunami triggered by an undersea earthquake. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul has placed significant emphasis on disaster preparedness, particularly in tsunami-prone areas. Under his directive, the DDPM is working closely with provincial authorities, local government bodies, and national security agencies to refine evacuation plans, upgrade warning systems, and ensure a swift response to emergencies. Phasakorn highlighted the necessity of continuous plan revisions to reflect geographical and infrastructural changes. “A tsunami can strike without warning. Our plans must be actionable and effective, with clearly defined evacuation routes and safety procedures that local communities can follow,” he stated. The C-MEX 25 drill will integrate various national disaster management strategies, including the 2024–2030 National Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Plan and the 2023–2027 National Crisis Management Plan. These frameworks mandate regular simulation exercises to refine Thailand’s disaster response mechanisms. Thailand has invested in modernising its tsunami warning infrastructure, including early detection sensors and public alert systems. The National Disaster Warning Centre has also been updating hazard maps for Andaman coastal areas to ensure more precise risk assessments. A critical component of the exercise will be the evaluation of evacuation procedures. Officials will assess the readiness of designated evacuation centres, emergency signage, and escape routes. “Our goal is to evacuate people from danger zones as quickly and safely as possible while ensuring proper shelter and support services,” Phasakorn added. The meeting in Phuket brought together key stakeholders, including provincial governors, local administrative officials, disaster response experts, and academics from leading Thai universities. Discussions centred on improving coordination between national and local agencies to ensure a seamless disaster response. Professor Dr. Seree Supharatid, Director of the Climate Change and Disaster Centre at Rangsit University, underscored the importance of community engagement. “Educating residents and tourists about tsunami preparedness is crucial. Public awareness can significantly reduce casualties during a real emergency,” he said. The full-scale drill, scheduled for June–July 2025, will include functional exercises and live evacuation simulations. These activities will test Thailand’s ability to issue rapid warnings, deploy emergency responders, and manage large-scale evacuations effectively. Beyond safeguarding lives, the initiative aims to bolster public confidence in Thailand’s disaster readiness, particularly in its tourism-dependent regions. “Preparedness reassures both locals and international visitors. A well-executed response plan minimises economic disruptions and enhances Thailand’s reputation as a safe destination,” Phasakorn concluded. With the threat of tsunamis ever-present, C-MEX 25 represents a crucial step in ensuring that Thailand is not only prepared but also resilient in the face of natural disasters. -- 2025-02-08

Giant King Cobra Startles Krabi Residents Amid Drought Residents of a village in Krabi were left in shock when a massive king cobra, measuring 4.5 metres in length, slithered into the front yard of a house, seemingly in search of water. The dramatic encounter took place in Moo 5, Khlong Ya, Ao Luek district, as drought conditions continue to impact the region. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351174-giant-king-cobra-startles-krabi-residents-amid-drought/

Picture from responders. Residents of a village in Krabi were left in shock when a massive king cobra, measuring 4.5 metres in length, slithered into the front yard of a house, seemingly in search of water. The dramatic encounter took place in Moo 5, Khlong Ya, Ao Luek district, as drought conditions continue to impact the region. The homeowner, 54-year-old Mr Watin Kaewsuwan, was left stunned when he spotted the enormous serpent approaching his house. Believed to have descended from a nearby hillside, the snake was likely drawn into the residential area due to the scarcity of natural water sources following a prolonged dry spell. Local rescue volunteers from the Khlong Ya unit of the Ao Luek Sawang Kharakun Foundation swiftly responded to Mr Watin’s call for help. Upon arrival, they discovered the giant cobra hiding in the grass near a roadside drainage ditch. The reptile attempted to escape but was safely captured within 15 minutes using expert handling techniques. The snake measured an astonishing 4.5 metres in length and weighed approximately 15 kilograms. It was carefully placed in a sack before being released back into a remote forested area, far from human habitation. Rescue teams have urged residents to exercise caution, warning that more snakes may venture into villages in search of water due to the ongoing drought. They advised people to avoid approaching venomous reptiles and to immediately contact wildlife experts or rescue teams if a sighting occurs. The drought, which has left many natural water sources dried up, is not only affecting human communities but is also forcing wild animals to venture beyond their usual habitats in search of sustenance. -- 2025-02-08

Pattaya Police Raid Villa, Arrest 12 Chinese Nationals Running Cross-Border Loan Sharking Op Thai authorities have arrested 12 Chinese nationals in Pattaya for operating an illegal cross-border online loan business. The group, which had been running its operation from a pool villa, was caught in a raid led by senior police officers from Chonburi province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351172-pattaya-police-raid-villa-arrest-12-chinese-nationals-running-cross-border-loan-sharking-op/

Pictures from raid. Thai authorities have arrested 12 Chinese nationals in Pattaya for operating an illegal cross-border online loan business. The group, which had been running its operation from a pool villa, was caught in a raid led by senior police officers from Chonburi province. The operation was conducted under a search warrant issued by the Pattaya Provincial Court. More than 20 officers, including tourist police and immigration officials, searched a lavish villa spanning over one rai in Nong Pla Lai, Bang Lamung district. The property comprised a large two-storey house and two smaller buildings. During the raid, police arrested 11 men and one woman, all Chinese nationals. Officers seized 10 computers, 61 mobile phones, passports, electronic banking cards, and a sum of cash. A search of the computers revealed an active online loan business with a large turnover. One of the suspects, speaking through a translator, admitted that they had been renting the villa for 150,000 baht per month since August 2024. Their scheme involved offering high-interest loans via the WeChat application to customers in China, with loan amounts ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 yuan (approximately 10,000–15,000 baht). The group charged an exorbitant interest rate of 30%. Employees reportedly earned monthly salaries between 15,000 and 20,000 baht, plus commissions. Before relocating to Thailand, the group had operated in Dubai for five years but moved due to the high cost of living. Police Colonel Chatree Suksiri, Deputy Commander of Chonburi Provincial Police, stated that most of the suspects had entered Thailand on tourist and student visas. Two individuals were found to have overstayed their visas. They now face charges of working illegally in Thailand, with further investigations ongoing to uncover additional offences and identify the leaders behind this transnational fraud scheme. -- 2025-02-08

Woman Killed in Crash as Pickup Slams into Tree A crash in Nakhon Ratchasima claimed the life of a 25-year-old woman and left a man seriously injured after a pickup truck, fully loaded with jujube fruit, veered off the road and crashed into a tree. Authorities suspect the driver may have fallen asleep at the wheel. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351170-woman-killed-in-crash-as-pickup-slams-into-tree/

Picture from responders. A crash in Nakhon Ratchasima claimed the life of a 25-year-old woman and left a man seriously injured after a pickup truck, fully loaded with jujube fruit, veered off the road and crashed into a tree. Authorities suspect the driver may have fallen asleep at the wheel. The crash occurred on Mittraphap Road near Don Chomphu Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospital in Non Sung District. Police from Non Sung Station and rescue workers from Hook 31 Rescue Unit were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, emergency responders found a white Isuzu pickup truck with its front end crushed against a tree. The vehicle was severely damaged, with debris and scattered fruit covering the area. Inside, a man and a woman were trapped, requiring hydraulic cutting tools to extract them. The injured man, identified as 30-year-old Anon, was suffering from severe pain in his right leg and ribcage. The deceased, 25-year-old Rungarut Muang-ngam, was pronounced dead at the scene. Both were residents of Phitsanulok province. Rescue workers transported the injured man and the victim’s body to Non Sung Hospital. Preliminary investigations suggest the driver may have dozed off, leading to the crash. Authorities are continuing their inquiry to determine the exact cause of the incident. -- 2025-02-08