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Pictures from responders. A road crash in Ta Phraya district, Sa Kaeo province, has resulted in three fatalities and four injuries after a pickup truck collided with a car near the entrance to Lalu, Thai Samakkhi Village, Kok Larn Subdistrict. Emergency responders rushed to the scene to provide aid and transport victims to the hospital. The accident occurred at approximately 14:20, prompting an immediate response from local rescue teams, including Sawang Thieng Tham Rescue Unit, Share-Or Rapid Response Unit and cutting and extrication teams from Burapha station. Upon arrival, rescue workers confirmed that three individuals had lost their lives at the scene, while four others sustained serious injuries. The force of the impact had sent the car off the road and down an embankment. The injured were urgently transported to Ta Phraya Hospital for medical treatment, with ambulances from Ta Phraya Hospital, Kok Larn Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, and Thap Rat Subdistrict Administrative Organisation assisting. The bodies of the deceased were extricated from the vehicles and also transferred to Ta Phraya Hospital for further procedures. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. Initial assessments suggest that vehicle speed may have been contributing factors. The vehicles collided almost head-on, with the car possibly attempting to overtake a slower moving truck, then swerving to try to avoid the overcoming pickup. -- 2025-02-02

Elderly Man Found Burned to Death in Suspected Murder A 73-year-old man was found burned to death in his hut in what police suspect to be a brutal murder. His charred body was discovered tied with wire around his hands and neck, with a knife placed beside him. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350548-elderly-man-found-burned-to-death-in-suspected-murder/

Man Fatally Struck by Train While Tying Up Cattle Before Voting An incident occurred in Buriram province when a 54-year-old man was struck and killed by a train while securing his cattle in a field before heading to vote. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350547-man-fatally-struck-by-train-while-tying-up-cattle-before-voting/

Picture from responders. An incident occurred in Buriram province when a 54-year-old man was struck and killed by a train while securing his cattle in a field before heading to vote. At approximately 10:00 on 1 February, police officers from Thamenchai Police Station, led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Songtham Sriwongchai, received a report of a fatal train incident near the rice fields behind Butarit Village, Moo 12, Thamenchai Subdistrict, Lam Plai Mat District. Emergency responders, including medical personnel from Lam Plai Mat Hospital and rescue teams from Sawang Janyatham Foundation, were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, authorities found a large crowd gathered around the railway tracks. The victim, identified as Mr. Jamroon was discovered with severe head injuries, and skull brain matter was scattered along the tracks. His body lay near the railway line, indicating the force of the impact. According to his wife, Mrs. Thongpaeng 58, her husband had left home around 09:00, telling her he needed to gather firewood for charcoal production before quickly returning to vote. He then led his cattle to a nearby field. After securing them, he was likely heading towards a eucalyptus grove to collect wood when the collision occurred. She further explained that her husband had hearing difficulties, which may have prevented him from detecting the approaching train. Additionally, he was in a hurry to return home in time to cast his vote, possibly leading to a lapse in awareness of his surroundings. Authorities are continuing their investigation but believe the incident was a tragic accident caused by a combination of hearing impairment and the victim's urgency to complete his tasks. Residents have been urged to exercise caution when crossing railway tracks, especially in remote areas where safety barriers and signals may not be present. -- 2025-02-02

Picture. From responders. A 73-year-old man was found burned to death in his hut in what police suspect to be a brutal murder. His charred body was discovered tied with wire around his hands and neck, with a knife placed beside him. The incident occurred late on 31 January next to a rice mill in Khong Chai district, Kalasin. A local Facebook user live-streamed the fire, reporting that the victim was the father of a prominent local businessman known as “Sia Jo,” the owner of Kaen Khun Rice Mill. The footage showed the hut engulfed in flames, with a motorcycle nearby that appeared to have been deliberately pushed over. The deceased was identified as Mr. Boonliang Jantasri, 73, the owner of the hut. Police found evidence suggesting he had been restrained before the fire, including what appeared to be electrical wire or metal cord binding his hands and neck. A sharp knife was also found next to his body. Police officers and forensic teams have since examined the scene, with locals gathering to observe the investigation. The Kalasin provincial police chief has visited the site to oversee the inquiry. Mrs. Sirirat Thinratsamee, a neighbour, told reporters that she had received a phone call close to midnight, prompting her to rush to the scene. She found a group of teenagers parked outside the rice mill, who reported seeing a woman riding away on a Honda scooter. The teenagers claimed the woman later returned and asked them if they had seen two women leaving the area. They denied seeing anyone, but noticed the hut had already caught fire. When they asked if they should intervene, the woman allegedly told them to stay back, warning that they could be accused of trespassing. Further reports suggest that at around 21:00 on the night of the fire, the victim’s daughter was seen purchasing petrol from a local shop. However, the shop owner later refuted this, stating she had only bought a bottle of Coca-Cola. Kalasin police chief Pol. Col. Korrakop Netthaisong confirmed that officers had already taken a suspect in for questioning at Khong Chai Police Station. Authorities are now gathering further evidence and witness statements. The victim’s body has been sent to Khon Kaen Hospital for autopsy. Investigators are considering multiple possibilities, including murder and arson, and have not ruled out the possibility of suicide. Police have stated that they expect to solve the case soon. -- 2025-02-02

Phuket Tourist Bus Plunges 20 Metres Down Ravine, Several Injured A tourist bus on 1 February, plunged approximately 20 metres down a hillside ravine, off the Karon Hill road in Phuket, leaving seven injured foreign tourists in need of urgent medical attention Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350541-phuket-tourist-bus-plunges-20-metres-down-ravine-several-injured/

UPDATE Man Charged with Arson and Attempted Murder After Hospital Fire in Ubon Ratchathani A man has been charged on 1 February, with three serious offences, including arson and attempted murder, following a fire at Somdet Phra Yupharat Det Udom Hospital in Ubon Ratchathani on the evening of 31 January. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350540-man-charged-with-arson-and-attempted-murder-after-hospital-fire-in-ubon-ratchathani/

UPDATE Man Charged with Arson and Attempted Murder After Hospital Fire in Ubon Ratchathani

Over 20 Arrested in Krabi for Violating Election Alcohol Ban Picture courtesy if Matichon. Police in Krabi have arrested more than 20 individuals for violating election laws by selling or distributing alcohol after 18.00 on 31 January, a day before the local elections. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350539-over-20-arrested-in-krabi-for-violating-election-alcohol-ban/

Thailand and 17 Nations Unite to Combat Cross-Border Scams Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Royal Thai Police have announced the establishment of an international coordination centre to tackle cross-border scams and transnational crime, following a high-level meeting with representatives from 17 countries in Bangkok. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350538-thailand-and-17-nations-unite-to-combat-cross-border-scams/

UPDATE Picture of arrest and from responders. A man has been charged on 1 February, with three serious offences, including arson and attempted murder, following a fire at Somdet Phra Yupharat Det Udom Hospital in Ubon Ratchathani on the evening of 31 January. The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Phiboon, was arrested shortly after allegedly throwing a petrol bomb inside the hospital’s three-storey building, which houses the ear, nose, and throat (ENT) ward. The fire prompted an urgent evacuation of patients and took firefighters over an hour to bring under control. Phiboon claimed that his actions were motivated by anger over a land dispute six years ago, in which he lost between two to three million baht. He stated that his attack was not directed at the hospital itself and that he had never been treated there before. Ubon Ratchathani Governor, Lieutenant Colonel Adisak Noisuwan, arrived at the scene to oversee emergency efforts. Initial assessments confirmed that some medical equipment was damaged, and four hospital staff suffered minor injuries. However, all patients were safely evacuated. Authorities, including local police, border patrol units, village chiefs, and volunteers, mobilised over 100 personnel to assist in relocating patients, clearing debris, and preparing nearby hospitals to receive emergency transfers. Officials have also begun planning the hospital’s restoration to ensure it can resume full operations as soon as possible. Forensic teams have now started examining the site to collect evidence for further future prosecution. Meanwhile, Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Police Deputy Commander, Police Colonel Sinchai Nimpuñgkampong, confirmed that Phiboon faces three charges: arson, attempted murder, and firearms offences. The suspect has reportedly confessed to all charges and will be taken to court for legal proceedings. Related article. https://aseannow.com/topic/1350474-arson-attack-sparks-fire-at-ubon-ratchathani’s-somdet-phra-yuppharat-hospital/ -- 2025-02-02

Picture from responders. A tourist bus on 1 February, plunged approximately 20 metres down a hillside ravine, off the Karon Hill road in Phuket, leaving seven injured foreign tourists in need of urgent medical attention. At 13:10 local time, emergency services received reports of the incident near Karon Nui Soi, Karon Subdistrict, in the Muang District of Phuket. The authorities quickly mobilised rescue teams, including high-level medical responders from Patong Hospital, local medics, and several emergency units from the Phuket Kusontham Foundation. Upon arrival, emergency teams found the tourist bus had veered off the road and tumbled into the ditch. The scene showed signs of damage to the metal barriers along the roadside, with visible evidence of the bus having struck and destroyed the crash barriers over a significant stretch. Nine individuals who had sustained injuries were swiftly transported to Patong Hospital for further treatment. There were 5 males and 4 females and were reported to be 4 Chinese tourists, 1 German, 2 Russians, 1 Thai woman, and 1 driver (later identified as Mr. Wira, aged 49). The cause of the crash is still under investigation, as authorities continue to gather evidence at the scene. Initial reports from dash-cam footage, suggests the bus driver was travelling at speed when he lost control, causing the bus to swerve, striking the crash barrier and then crashing through it and plunging into the ravine. -- 2025-02-02

Picture courtesy if Matichon. Police in Krabi have arrested more than 20 individuals for violating election laws by selling or distributing alcohol after 18.00 on 31 January, a day before the local elections. Police Colonel Chaikiat Wiriya-satitkul, Deputy Commander of Phuket Provincial Police and Acting Commander of Krabi Provincial Police, confirmed the arrests during an inspection of polling stations for the Krabi Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) election. According to Thai election law, the sale, distribution, or provision of alcohol is strictly prohibited from 18.00 the day before the election (31 January) until 18.00 on election day (1 February). Reports from various police stations across Krabi province indicated multiple violations, with nine arrests in Mueang Krabi district and two in Ao Nang, while the remaining cases were spread across other districts. Col. Chaikiat reminded business owners that, despite Krabi being a popular tourist destination in peak season, election laws must be upheld. “The law prohibits the sale, distribution, or hosting of events involving alcohol from 6 p.m. the day before the election until 6 p.m. on election day. This is to prevent vote-buying and ensure fair competition between candidates,” he stated. He urged all vendors to comply with the regulations, warning that authorities would strictly enforce the law against violators. -- 2025-02-02

Clever Crocodile Evades Capture in Prachinburi Pond Authorities in Kabin Buri district, Prachinburi, are struggling to capture a cunning crocodile that has been spotted in a large pond on private company property. Despite several attempts using nets and bait, the reptile has successfully evaded capture. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350537-clever-crocodile-evades-capture-in-prachinburi-pond/

House Fire Suspected to Be Started by Drug-Addicted Son: Urine Test Positive for Narcotics A devastating fire engulfed a two-storey house in Photharam district, Ratchaburi province, with authorities suspecting that the homeowner’s drug-addicted son was responsible. Despite a positive drug test, the suspect denies any involvement in the blaze. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350536-house-fire-suspected-to-be-started-by-drug-addicted-son-urine-test-positive-for-narcotics/

Illegal Chinese Owned Recycling Factory Raided: 4,000 Tonnes of Scrap Wiring Seized Authorities have raided an illegal recycling factory in Ban Phaeo district, Samut Sakhon, uncovering over 4,000 tonnes of old electrical wiring believed to be hazardous waste. The Chinese-owned facility was abandoned following a recent fire at a nearby plastics factory. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350535-illegal-chinese-owned-recycling-factory-raided-4000-tonnes-of-scrap-wiring-seized/

Delivery Driver Crashes into Traffic Pole and Police Motorcycle Before Attempting to Flee Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A 40-year-old delivery driver from a well-known logistics company was caught drunk driving after crashing his pickup truck into a traffic light control box and a police motorcycle in Bangkok. The driver attempted to flee the scene but was apprehended shortly after. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350533-delivery-driver-crashes-into-traffic-pole-and-police-motorcycle-before-attempting-to-flee/

Lorry Driver Takes His Own Life Amid Financial Struggles in Chonburi A 32-year-old lorry driver struggling with financial difficulties was found dead in the bathroom of his home in Bang Lamung district, Chonburi, after reportedly taking his own life with a firearm. His grief-stricken father expressed deep sorrow, saying he wished he could have died in his son's place. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350532-lorry-driver-takes-his-own-life-amid-financial-struggles-in-chonburi/

Mother’s Heartbreak as Toddler Drowns in Fishing Net in Chachoengsao A 26-year-old mother was left devastated after discovering her two-year-old son had drowned in a canal near their home in Bang Nam Priao district, Chachoengsao. The child was found entangled in a fishing net approximately 100 metres from the house, after many hours-long search involving police, rescue teams, and local residents. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350531-mother’s-heartbreak-as-toddler-drowns-in-fishing-net-in-chachoengsao/

Gas Leak Triggers Explosion in Townhouse, Injuring Homeowner A 47-year-old homeowner narrowly escaped death after an undetected gas leak caused an explosion when he switched on the lights upon returning home. The powerful blast shook neighbouring houses and left him with flash burn injuries to his face, head, and arms. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350530-gas-leak-triggers-explosion-in-townhouse-injuring-homeowner/

Intensifying Battle for 7-Eleven Reaches Thailand as CP Group Joins Bid The ongoing corporate battle over the future of the 7-Eleven convenience store empire has taken a new turn, with Thailand’s Charoen Pokphand (CP) Group reportedly entering talks to assist Japan’s Seven & i Holdings in fending off a takeover bid from Canadian retail giant Alimentation Couche-Tard. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350528-intensifying-battle-for-7-eleven-reaches-thailand-as-cp-group-joins-bid/

Pictures courtesy of Fisheries Department. Authorities in Kabin Buri district, Prachinburi, are struggling to capture a cunning crocodile that has been spotted in a large pond on private company property. Despite several attempts using nets and bait, the reptile has successfully evaded capture. The crocodile was first spotted on 27 January by local residents in Moo 6, Yanree Subdistrict. Concerned about public safety, the Prachinburi Provincial Fisheries Department ordered a team from the Freshwater Fisheries Protection and Suppression Unit at Naruebodindrachinta Reservoir to capture the animal. Under the leadership of Nakhon Prayongkham, four officers arrived at the site on 31 January equipped with nets and bait. Their initial plan was to lure the crocodile using raw chicken carcasses tied to the nets. However, the intelligent reptile managed to snatch the bait without getting trapped and swiftly swam away. The elusive crocodile continues to surface periodically for air before disappearing underwater. Despite efforts to relocate the nets and adjust their positioning, the reptile remains wary of the traps, carefully assessing the situation before swimming away. On 31 January, officers observed the crocodile approaching the nets but retreating at the last moment, indicating its awareness of the capture attempt. It was also seen basking in the sun in the middle of the pond, remaining at a safe distance from authorities. Mr Kamon Leesi, a senior river patrol officer, confirmed that the team has been stationed at the site since the crocodile was first reported. However, their methods have so far been unsuccessful due to the animal’s intelligence and cautious behaviour. Authorities are now awaiting further instructions from the Provincial Fisheries Department on how to proceed with the capture operation. Meanwhile, residents remain on high alert as officials continue their efforts to remove the crocodile from the area safely. -- 2025-02-02

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Royal Thai Police have announced the establishment of an international coordination centre to tackle cross-border scams and transnational crime, following a high-level meeting with representatives from 17 countries in Bangkok. The initiative, led by Police General Thatchai Pitaneelaboot, Director of the Anti-Human Trafficking Centre, aims to enhance cooperation between nations and facilitate the rapid exchange of intelligence. Countries including the United States, China, Russia, and several Southeast Asian nations have pledged their support for the project. “This centre marks a crucial step in our fight against transnational crime,” said Pol. Gen. Thatchai. “By working together, we can prevent criminals from exploiting international borders and protect vulnerable individuals from becoming victims of scams.” As part of the initiative, the Royal Thai Police have introduced seven new measures to strengthen border security, including tighter airport screening and stricter immigration checks at land crossings. One key measure requires officials at border checkpoints, such as Mae Sot, to alert embassies if foreign nationals attempt to enter high-risk areas without a clear travel itinerary. “The embassies have expressed strong willingness to cooperate,” said Pol. Gen. Thatchai. “Foreigners entering Mae Sot will be questioned in the same way as those arriving at airports, ensuring their travel plans are legitimate.” Authorities also discussed strategies to combat international call centre fraud, which remains a growing problem not only in Thailand’s neighbouring countries but across the world. The announcement follows several recent high-profile operations, including the rescue of Chinese actor Wang Xing from a human trafficking gang. In response, National Police Commissioner Pol. Gen. Kitt-rat Panpetch has ordered tighter enforcement of immigration laws and increased surveillance in tourist areas. The coordination centre, which will operate 24/7, began work on 1 February. Daily situation assessment meetings will be held each morning at 08:30 , with additional support from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), Thailand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand. -- 2025-02-02

Picture from responders. A devastating fire engulfed a two-storey house in Photharam district, Ratchaburi province, with authorities suspecting that the homeowner’s drug-addicted son was responsible. Despite a positive drug test, the suspect denies any involvement in the blaze. The incident occurred at 18:30 on 31 January, when emergency services responded to a house fire in Moo 9, Ban Sing Subdistrict, near Wat Kamphaeng Tai temple. District chief Suphachai Krutdam, along with officers from Photharam Police Station and firefighters from Ban Sing Municipality, rushed to the scene. Firefighters battled intense flames engulfing the two-storey wooden and concrete home, calling in over 10 fire engines from neighbouring areas to prevent the blaze from spreading to adjacent houses. It took approximately 50 minutes to bring the fire under control, but by then, the house was completely destroyed. A motorcycle parked nearby was also burnt, and a neighbouring house sustained damage to its roof. The homeowner, 62-year-old Mrs. Chortip, told authorities that she and her husband had left to sell goods at a local temple fair, while their eldest son was out with friends. Only their younger son, Peeranont, was home alone at the time of the fire. According to Mrs. Chortip, Peeranont struggles with drug addiction, leading her to believe he intentionally set the house on fire. Neighbours called the couple back after discovering the fire, but by the time they arrived, their home was already reduced to ashes. She urged authorities to arrest her son and force him into rehabilitation, even stating she was willing to accept the use of force if necessary. Following the fire, Peeranont was found hiding in the darkness near the house, armed with a knife. Police officers attempted to coax him out peacefully, but after prolonged negotiations, he refused to surrender. Authorities then devised a strategy, instructing firefighters to prepare water jets, while plainclothes officers approached from behind to engage him in conversation. Meanwhile, a tactical unit armed with restraining poles moved in to subdue him. The plan was successfully executed, and Peeranont was taken into custody. A urine test revealed traces of narcotics, confirming drug use, and he was held in police custody. However, despite suspicions and circumstantial evidence, Peeranont denied any involvement in setting the house on fire. Police are continuing their investigation to determine the exact cause of the blaze and whether criminal charges will be filed against him. -- 2025-02-02