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Picture from responders. In an incident that unfolded late night on 27 January, a shop fire in the Kha Sang district of Buriram resulted in the tragic deaths of three family members, leaving the community in mourning. The victims, identified as 44-year-old Mr. Jamrong, 45-year-old Mrs. Kittima, and their one-year-old son, Kittisak, were discovered huddled together in their home after the fire destroyed the building. The fire broke out around midnight, engulfing the shop quickly. Rescuers arrived on the scene to find the family’s bodies in a heart-wrenching embrace, highlighting the devastating impact of the blaze. Ms. Somsri, a 41-year-old assistant village chief, revealed that just days before the fire, Mrs. Kittima had shared a troubling message from her husband. He allegedly requested forgiveness from his wife and child, raising concerns and questions surrounding the events leading to the inferno. While community members speculate about the nature of the fire, including whether it could be linked to domestic strife, Ms. Somsri has urged caution. "I’m not certain of anything just yet," she stated. "We must await the official investigation by the police and forensic team to uncover the truth." As the community grapples with this devastating loss, authorities are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident to determine its cause and any potential foul play. -- 2025-01-29

Warning Issued Over Bluebottle Jellyfish Presence Off Songkhla Beaches Beachgoers are being urged to exercise caution following the discovery of an extensive proliferation of Bluebottle Jellyfish along popular local beaches, including Chao Ta Nature Beach, Samila Beach, and Laem Son Oan Beach. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350161-warning-issued-over-bluebottle-jellyfish-presence-off-songkhla-beaches/

Picture courtesy of Gulf of Thailand Marine Centre. Beachgoers are being urged to exercise caution following the discovery of an extensive proliferation of Bluebottle Jellyfish along popular local beaches, including Chao Ta Nature Beach, Samila Beach, and Laem Son Oan Beach. The announcement originates from the Southern Gulf of Thailand Marine and Coastal Resource Research Centre in Songkhla, after a post appeared on social media platform Facebook on January 26. A user, known as Mayu Ri, reported experiencing severe burning pain after touching the marine creature at Songkhla beach, and shared a photo of the jellyfish. In response to this alarming report, officials conducted a field investigation on January 27, in collaboration with lifeguards from the Songkhla Lifeguard service. The assessment revealed dense clusters of Bluebottle Jellyfish (Physalia) in the area, with an average size of 1-4 cm. The findings were as follows: 174 jellyfish per 100 metres at Chao Ta Nature Beach, 15 jellyfish per 100 metres at Samila Beach, and 62 jellyfish per 100 metres at Laem Son Oan Beach. January to March is traditionally recognised as the peak season for jellyfish blooms in this region. This species of jellyfish carries a potent venom that can inflict harm, potentially affecting the nervous system, skin, and heart. Officials have promptly communicated this vital information through the “Coastal Injury Monitoring” Line group in Songkhla Province, urging relevant agencies to enhance public awareness about the dangers posed by the jellyfish. Beachgoers are advised to be vigilant and refrain from touching or swimming in areas where these jellyfish are present. Safety measures are being reinforced as authorities work to ensure the well-being of all visitors to the region's beaches. -- 2025-01-29

Teenage Brit Involved in Fatal Road Collision in Pattaya A road crash on Soi Nern Plub Wan in Nong Prue, near Pattaya, left one woman dead and another seriously injured late night on 28 January. The incident involved a Toyota Fortuner driven by a 19-year-old British-Thai man and a red Yamaha Grand Filano motorcycle carrying two riders. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350160-teenage-brit-involved-in-fatal-road-collision-in-pattaya/

Picture from responders. A road crash on Soi Nern Plub Wan in Nong Prue, near Pattaya, left one woman dead and another seriously injured late night on 28 January. The incident involved a Toyota Fortuner driven by a 19-year-old British-Thai man and a red Yamaha Grand Filano motorcycle carrying two riders. At approximately 23:05 Pol Lt. Damchalouay Samkanying, Deputy Inspector of Nong Prue Police Station, received a report of a collision between a car and a motorcycle near Soi Mab Yailia 49. Emergency responders from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, officers discovered the silver Toyota Fortuner, registration from Bangkok, with front-end damage. It had collided with the red Yamaha Grand Filano, registration number from Chonburi, which was wrecked on the road. The motorcycle rider, identified as Ms. Kulthida, 19, and her passenger Ms. Thassanee, sustained critical injuries. Rescue workers rushed them to a nearby hospital. Tragically, Ms. Thassanee succumbed to her injuries shortly after arrival. Eyewitnesses reported that the Fortuner, driven by Mr. Lewis 19, was allegedly travelling at speed, honking aggressively to overtake other vehicles before striking the motorcycle. The impact sent both the riders and the bike flying and dragged them more than 100 metres along the road. Footage from CCTV cameras confirmed the Fortuner overtaking a car at high speed before colliding head-on with the motorcycle, causing sparks and dragging the wreckage along the road. Pol Lt. Damchalouay took Mr. Lewis into custody and conducted a breathalyser test, which found no alcohol in his system. Investigators are reviewing the footage and gathering additional evidence to determine whether reckless driving charges will be filed. The body of the deceased will be handed over to her family for funeral rites, while the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident continues. -- 2025-01-29

Karenni Army: U.S. Aid Cuts Impact Refugee Camps, Forces Medical Transfers to Thailand Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Karenni Army (KA), also known as the Red Karen Army, has admitted that recent U.S. budget cuts to NGOs, enacted under President Donald Trump’s second administration, are severely affecting refugee camps along the Thai-Myanmar border. The cuts have left camps struggling to provide medical care, forcing many patients to seek treatment in Thailand. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350159-karenni-army-us-aid-cuts-impact-refugee-camps-forces-medical-transfers-to-thailand/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Karenni Army (KA), also known as the Red Karen Army, has admitted that recent U.S. budget cuts to NGOs, enacted under President Donald Trump’s second administration, are severely affecting refugee camps along the Thai-Myanmar border. The cuts have left camps struggling to provide medical care, forcing many patients to seek treatment in Thailand. A senior leader of the Karenni Army revealed on 28 January that the budget reduction, particularly to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), has impacted organisations such as the International Rescue Committee (IRC), which supports refugee camps like Ban Nai Soi in Pang Mu Subdistrict, Mueang District, and Ban Mae Surin in Mae Surin Subdistrict, Khun Yuam District, Mae Hong Son Province. With medical services in these camps curtailed, the Karenni National Progressive Party (KNPP) has had no choice but to transfer patients to Sirisangwan Hospital in Mae Hong Son for treatment. While this decision may strain Thai medical resources, KNPP leaders have stated that it is unavoidable in order to save lives. Meanwhile, the Free Burma Rangers, a separate organisation that aids civilians and soldiers in Karenni State, remains unaffected by U.S. policy changes as it relies on donations from international supporters. However, severely injured patients who cannot be treated in Myanmar continue to be transferred to hospitals in Thailand. On 27 January 2025, the Karen Refugee Committee at Mae La Camp in Tha Song Yang District, Tak Province, issued a notice warning that, effective from 28 January 2025, the IRC will cease providing healthcare services. The announcement detailed that critical support for pregnant women, nursing mothers, and patients with chronic or emergency conditions, such as tuberculosis, diabetes, and hypertension, will no longer be available due to the withdrawal of outpatient (OPD) and inpatient (IPD) medical staff. The notice also urged camp-based medicine vendors to refrain from price increases and to sell drugs at regular rates. It remains unclear when the IRC’s healthcare services will resume. Thailand currently hosts nine temporary shelters for displaced persons fleeing conflict, accommodating approximately 90,000 refugees, primarily from Myanmar. These camps, overseen by Thailand’s Ministry of Interior, have relied heavily on funding from the U.S. and Western nations since their establishment over 30 years ago. The U.S. policy shift under President Trump’s administration underscores the growing challenges for refugees in these camps, with concerns mounting over their access to essential medical care and other critical support. -- 2025-01-29

Car Plunges into Canal After Father Goes to Buy Breakfast in Pathum Thani A man lost his life after his car plunged into the canal while he was out purchasing soybean milk for his child. The tragedy unfolded on the morning of January 28, in the Khu Bang Luang area of Pathum Thani. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350158-car-plunges-into-canal-after-father-goes-to-buy-breakfast-in-pathum thani/

Picture from responders In an incident that has left a community in shock, a man lost his life after his car plunged into the canal while he was out purchasing soybean milk for his child. The tragedy unfolded on the morning of January 28, in the Khu Bang Luang area of Pathum Thani. According to reports from the local police, the deceased has been identified as 48-year-old Nathapol, whose car was discovered overturned in the Phra Udom canal. The car, a red Toyota Yaris registered in Bangkok, was found village headman, Winai Yimin. Winai explained that he received a distressing notification around 08:30, stating "At around 06.00 a cow had escaped its pen, and I was riding my motorcycle in search of it. I noticed the cow near the canal and, while pursuing it, I spotted a vehicle flipped over in the water," he recounted. Concerned for potential victims, Winai promptly contacted the local authorities and rescue teams. The victim's wife shared the family's sorrow, revealing her husband left home at approximately 04:30, to buy soybean milk and snacks for their child, a daily routine that usually included her. “He went out every day with me, but today I was too tired to join him,” she lamented. "When I received a call from a neighbour informing me of the accident, I was devastated." Local police are currently investigating the incident to ascertain the exact cause of how the car ended up in the canal. Meanwhile, the community mourns the loss of a devoted father and husband. The investigation by authorities continues. -- 2025-01-29

Chinese New Year Incense Sparks Fire, Damages House in Pattaya A house fire in Pattaya, Chonburi Province, was caused by incense left burning during Chinese New Year celebrations. The incident, which occurred on 28 January at 12:30 resulted in the near-total internal damage of a single-storey house and left the homeowner’s son injured from smoke inhalation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350157-chinese-new-year-incense-sparks-fire-damages-house-in-pattaya/

Picture from responders. A house fire in Pattaya, Chonburi Province, was caused by incense left burning during Chinese New Year celebrations. The incident, which occurred on 28 January at 12:30 resulted in the near-total internal damage of a single-storey house and left the homeowner’s son injured from smoke inhalation. Deputy Investigator Police Lieutenant Sakayapat Chaidej from Pattaya City Police Station, along with five fire engines and rescue personnel from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation, responded to the fire at 162/61 Soi Thappraya 5. Thick smoke was seen billowing from the property. Firefighters took approximately 30 minutes to extinguish the blaze, but the house sustained severe internal damage. The injured individual, the son of the homeowner, was inside the house when the fire broke out and suffered smoke inhalation while in his bedroom. Emergency responders administered first aid before transporting him to Pattaya Pattamnakorn Hospital for further treatment. The homeowner, 71-year-old Mrs. Julairat Phoduang, explained that she had lit incense earlier in the day as part of Chinese New Year traditions before leaving for the market. Upon her return, she found thick smoke pouring out of her home and immediately alerted authorities. Police suspect the fire was caused by incense or candles that were not fully extinguished, which ignited flammable materials in the house. Authorities are conducting further investigations to confirm the cause of the fire. -- 2025-01-29

Myanmar Man Arrested After Stabbing Factory Bully to Death in Samut Prakan A 33-year-old Myanmar national has been arrested after fatally stabbing a fellow worker during a violent altercation at a factory dormitory in Bang Phli district. The suspect, angered by constant bullying, claimed he acted in self-defence after being struck on the head with a bottle. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350156-myanmar-man-arrested-after-stabbing-factory-bully-to-death-in-samut-prakan/

Picture from responders. A 33-year-old Myanmar national has been arrested after fatally stabbing a fellow worker during a violent altercation at a factory dormitory in Bang Phli district. The suspect, angered by constant bullying, claimed he acted in self-defence after being struck on the head with a bottle. The incident occurred at 23:30 on 27 January inside the workers' dormitory at a plastic factory in Bang Pla subdistrict. Pol Sub-Lt Bunsern Kingkhet of Bang Phli Police Station received the report and immediately dispatched officers, investigators, forensic teams, and rescue personnel to the scene. Upon arrival, police found the lifeless body of Mr. Ji Titha, 35, a Myanmar national, lying in a pool of blood in a dormitory room. He had sustained one stab wound to the chest and nine to his right arm. A bloodstained knife sheath was found on the floor, and significant blood splatters were observed outside the room. Broken glass fragments and blood were also discovered near the factory's back door. According to preliminary investigations, the victim was known for his aggressive behaviour and often bullied colleagues. On the night of the incident, the victim and the suspect, identified as Mr. Ye Lin Naing, 33, were drinking together. Tensions escalated when the victim allegedly mocked and provoked the suspect, leading to a physical confrontation. Witnesses stated that Mr. Ji struck Mr. Ye on the head with a bottle, injuring him. In retaliation, Mr. Ye retrieved a sharp knife from his room and stabbed the victim multiple times before fleeing the scene on a motorbike. Police later apprehended Mr. Ye along Sukhumvit Old Road in Bang Pu, where he was pushing his motorbike after running out of fuel. Officers recovered the weapon used in the attack and took him back to the dormitory for a crime scene reenactment. Pol Col Phairot Phetploy, Chief of Bang Phli Police Station, stated that the incident stemmed from ongoing bullying by the victim, who had established himself as the dominant figure at the factory. Mr. Ye, a recent hire, had reportedly endured the victim's abuse for weeks. After the victim's taunts and physical attack during the drinking session, Mr. Ye admitted he lost control and decided to retaliate. He has been charged with homicide and is being held for further questioning and legal proceedings. -- 2025-01-29

Crash in Chachoengsao as Lorry Collides with 18-Wheeler, Leaving Driver Severely Injured A serious crash occurred early morning 28 January, on Suwinthawong Road in Chachoengsao, where a 10-wheel lorry crashed into the rear of an 18-wheeler. The driver of the lorry was left trapped in the wreckage with severe leg injuries, narrowly avoiding being severed. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350155-crash-in-chachoengsao-as-lorry-collides-with-18-wheeler-leaving-driver-severely-injured/

Picture from responders. A serious crash occurred early morning 28 January, on Suwinthawong Road in Chachoengsao, where a 10-wheel lorry crashed into the rear of an 18-wheeler. The driver of the lorry was left trapped in the wreckage with severe leg injuries, narrowly avoiding being severed. The incident was reported to police at 06:00, Pol Lt Rewat Abdin of Bang Nam Priao Police Station confirmed that a Hino 10-wheel truck, bearing registration number from Samut Prakan, collided with an 18-wheel trailer, also a Hino, registered in Nakhon Pathom. The impact caused the trailer to lurch forward, hitting a parked Toyota Fortuner with registration number from Bangkok, in front of a convenience store. The lorry driver, identified as Mr. Nattawut Srikew, 56, was found trapped in his vehicle, crying out in pain. Residents attempted to assist but were unsuccessful in freeing him. Rescue teams from Chachoengsao, equipped with hydraulic cutting tools, arrived to extract him from the mangled cab. Mr. Nattawut sustained a large, severe wound to his legs, with muscle and tissue damage so extensive that the leg was almost severed. He was rushed to Phutthasothon Hospital for urgent medical treatment. Speaking from his hospital bed, Mr. Nattawut explained that he was travelling from Bang Sai to Chanthaburi and had been driving in the left lane. Due to poor lighting, he failed to see the stationary 18-wheeler and crashed into it at full speed without braking. Meanwhile, the 18-wheeler’s driver, Mr. Pichet Posum, 53, said he had parked momentarily to purchase items from a nearby shop. He had not even stepped out of his vehicle when the crash occurred, sending his truck forward into the Fortuner. Local noodle vendor Mrs. Lam Phengnam, 46, who witnessed the aftermath of the crash, revealed that crashes are common on this stretch of road. “I wasn’t even surprised. It happens all the time here. Just last month, a crash nearly sent a car into my shop,” she said. Authorities have taken Mr. Pichet to Bang Nam Priao Police Station for further questioning. They also plan to interview Mr. Nattawut once his condition stabilises, to determine the exact cause of the crash and proceed with legal action. -- 2025-01-29

Large Lopburi Teak House Suffers Complete Destruction in Fire In an incident on the morning of January 28, a prestigious teak house in the Tha Sala area of Lopburi was engulfed in flames, resulting in total loss of the property, with preliminary damage estimated to be 10s of millions baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350154-large-lopburi-teak-house-suffers-complete-destruction-in-fire/

Picture from responders. In an incident on the morning of January 28, a prestigious teak house in the Tha Sala area of Lopburi was engulfed in flames, resulting in total loss of the property, with preliminary damage estimated to be 10s of millions baht. At approximately 9:30 Deputy Police Lieutenant Somsak Thongkor was alerted to the fire and quickly mobilised to the scene, accompanied by local officials, including Mr. Songpol Paengaew, and fire department personnel. Upon arrival, emergency responders discovered a significant blaze consuming the large traditional Thai wooden house, which was situated close to several other residences. The flames spread rapidly due to the house being constructed entirely of teak wood. Strong gusts of wind at the time exacerbated the situation, causing embers to travel to neighbouring properties, igniting multiple spot fire in the vicinity in dry vegetation. Over 20 fire engines from various departments were dispatched to combat the inferno. After more than an hour and half of fierce battling against the flames, responders were able to bring the situation under control. Unfortunately, the entire teak structure, including its wooden pillars, was left in ruins. Locals reported that this particular area had previously suffered from fire incidents, with one occurring on January 18, 2024, which resulted in damage to three other nearby homes, totalling losses of over 50 million baht. This spate of unfortunate events has left the surrounding community in shock, raising concerns about the safety of properties in the area. Authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the fire, as residents remain wary of further incidents as the dry season continues. -- 2025-01-29

Crash Claims Life of Young Vendor in Chumphon In an incident early on January 28, a young female vendor lost her life in a motorcycle crash while on her way to purchase chicken for the Chinese New Year celebration. The collision occurred on Asia Highway 41 between kilometer markers 10 and 11 in the Thung Kha area of Mueang District, Chumphon. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350153-crash-claims-life-of-young-vendor-in-chumphon/

Picture from responders. In an incident early on January 28, a young female vendor lost her life in a motorcycle crash while on her way to purchase chicken for the Chinese New Year celebration. The collision occurred on Asia Highway 41 between kilometer markers 10 and 11 in the Thung Kha area of Mueang District, Chumphon. According to local police officer, Lieutenant Colonel Patthompong Chummak, emergency services responded to the scene at approximately 10:00. Medical personnel from Chumphon Khet Udomsak Hospital and local rescue teams were dispatched to provide assistance. The crash took place on the uphill section of the highway, directly opposite Wat Khao Bo, where the road curves and descends. This particular stretch is known for high-speed traffic, which may have contributed to the collision. The victim, identified as Miss Piyamas aged 29, was discovered in critical condition with severe injuries, including head injury, a fractured right leg and multiple contusions. Despite immediate resuscitation efforts, her pulse could not be detected, and sadly, she succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Witnesses reported that her motorcycle veered off course and struck the rear of an Isuzu D-Max pickup truck, which was parked on the roadside. The impact was severe, causing sooome parts of the motorcycle to scatter across the roadway, along with significant scratch marks indicating a high-speed slide along the road. The pickup truck, registered in Chumphon, had its rear lights damaged and was found parked with its hazard lights activated in the emergency lane. Local authorities are working to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident further. -- 2025-01-29

Motorcycles Collision Leaves One Injured in Pattaya Local emergency services were alerted at approximately 20.00 on 27 January, to a motorcycle accident on the railway road in the Nong Prue area of Bang Lamung, Chonburi, resulting in one injury. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350093-motorcycles-collision-leaves-one-injured-in-pattaya/

Picture from responders. Local emergency services were alerted at approximately 20.00 on 27 January, to a motorcycle accident on the railway road in the Nong Prue area of Bang Lamung, Chonburi, resulting in one injury. Responding swiftly to the report, volunteers from the Sawang Boriboon Rescue Centre arrived at the scene to assist. Upon their arrival, they encountered a blue Honda Wave 100 motorcycle lying on the ground with significant damage. The injured party, a 40-year-old Cambodian woman, was found lying on the roadway, appearing dazed and with abrasions on her body. Rescue personnel provided immediate first aid before she was transported to a nearby hospital for further treatment. Involved in the incident was a black Yamaha Airlock motorcycle, which was being ridden by a German tourist. The tourist remained on-site, cooperating with officials during the investigation. Mr. Ví, also a Cambodian national and the rider of the Honda Wave, recounted the events leading up to the crash. He stated that he was riding with his girlfriend, who sustained the injuries, when they were following the tourist's motorcycle. Suddenly, the foreign rider braked sharply to turn into a side street, leading to a collision as Mr. Ví was unable to brake in time, lost control and crashed into the back of the Yamaha. Local authorities are continuing their investigation into the crash. -- 2025-01-27

UPDATE Shooting: Army Ranger Surrenders After Killing Police Officer at Home Picture from responders. In a shocking incident in Pattani province, an army ranger has surrendered to authorities following the shooting death of a police officer in the officer's home. The victim, Sub-Lieutenant Abdulgohand 33, was an officer with the Yarang Police Station when he was fatally shot by his friend, an army ranger who has been temporarily suspended from duty. The event occurred on the evening of January 27 at a residence located in Moo 8, Talubo Sub-district, Yarang Soi 5, Muang District. According to reports, Sub-Lieutenant Abdulgohand was at home during his break when he was approached by Rusukwan, also 33, who is a volunteer army ranger from the 47th Army Ranger Regiment in Yala. As Rusukwan entered the house to visit his friend, the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, leading to an immediate alarm among local residents. The investigation revealed that the weapon used in the shooting was an M16 rifle, raising questions about its source and how it came into the possession of the ranger. Authorities are conducting a thorough inquiry into the incident, aiming to uncover the motive behind this brutal act. The local community is in shock as further details emerge, highlighting the complexities of the relationships between military personnel and local law enforcement. The investigation continues as officials seek to provide clarity and ensure justice for the lost life of Sub-Lieutenant Abdulgohand. -- 2025-01-27

Two Malaysian Tourists Die in Motorbike Crash on Rain- Soaked Road Two Malaysian tourists lost their lives in a motorbike crash while travelling in heavy rain from Mae Hong Son to Malaysia. The incident occurred on Phetkasem Road in Bang Saphan Noi District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350059-two-malaysian-tourists-die-in-motorbike-crash-on-rain-soaked-road/

Pictures from responders. Two Malaysian tourists lost their lives in a motorbike crash while travelling in heavy rain from Mae Hong Son to Malaysia. The incident occurred on Phetkasem Road in Bang Saphan Noi District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. Police Lieutenant Pawaris Siriwat, an investigator from Bang Saphan Noi Police Station, received the report and coordinated with Kusolsongkroh Rescue Unit and Bang Saphan Noi Hospital's medical team to inspect the scene. The crash took place on a curve between kilometre markers 415 and 416 near Ban Nam Lot in Sai Thong Subdistrict. At the scene, officers found a black Kawasaki big bike severely damaged off the road and on the roadside grass verge. Two victims were found, but their identities not disclosed. 1. Male: Found lying lifeless in the middle of the road, wearing jeans and a black leather jacket. 2. Female: Discovered deceased along the roadside, in the grass verge. Both were Malaysian nationals. Initial investigations revealed that male was riding the motorbike, with the female riding pillion. The pair were travelling southbound from Mae Hong Son, intending to return to Malaysia. Rainfall at the time had made the road dangerously slippery, causing the bike rider to lose control on a curve and crash into a U-turn sign. The impact led to the deaths of both, both were reported to have been wearing helmets. The bodies were taken to Bang Saphan Noi Hospital and further investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the crash. -- 2025-01-27

Ranger Shoots Police Officer Dead in Pattani A police officer from the Yarang Police Station in Pattani was fatally shot by a ranger wielding an M16 rifle in a shocking incident on the evening of 27 January. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1350058-ranger-shoots-police-officer-dead-in-pattani/