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Picture of seizure. Authorities in Kanchanaburi have seized packs of smuggled cigarettes concealed inside sealed parcels, in an apparent attempt to evade detection. The operation took place on 28 February, at a border checkpoint in Sangkhla Buri district, following a tip-off about illegal contraband being transported from the border. The seizure was part of a joint operation led by Major General Asadawut Panyarachun, commander of the 9th Infantry Division and Surasi Task Force, in coordination with Kanchanaburi Governor, Athisan Intra. The crackdown is part of the government’s initiative to combat smuggling along border routes. Acting on intelligence received earlier that day, Colonel Pannasak Phreawpanich, commander of the 29th Infantry Regiment, and Colonel Piyanes Patrasasawatwong, deputy commander of the Lad Ya Task Force, deployed officers from the 134th Border Patrol Police Unit and Sangkhla Buri Police Station to set up a checkpoint at Nam Krik, a suspected smuggling route near Songkaria Village, Nong Lu Subdistrict. During the operation, officers stopped a black Toyota Revo pickup truck driven by Mr. Watthana, a private courier service employee. Upon inspection, they discovered large cardboard boxes sealed and packed as standard parcels. Inside, they found smuggled cigarettes, with no documentation indicating proper tax payment. Mr. Watthana told police that he had collected the parcels from a logistics company in Moo 9, Nong Lu Subdistrict, and was instructed to deliver them to Royal Thai Air Force Wing 7 in Surat Thani and a residential area in Sung Noen District, Nakhon Ratchasima. He also noted that the parcels had an unusual instruction written on them, stating: “If the recipient does not answer the phone, leave the package at the location.” However, he claimed he was unaware of their contents. Authorities have seized the contraband and handed it over to Sangkhla Buri Police Station for further investigation. Police are now working to trace the source of the illegal shipment and identify those responsible for the smuggling operation. -- 2025-03-01

Murder-Suicide in Chonburi Home A murder-suicide unfolded in Chonburi on the morning of 28 February, as a 65-year-old man killed his estranged wife before taking his own life. The suspected motives behind the incident are jealousy and a financial dispute over land in Buriram. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353208-murder-suicide-in-chonburi-home/

Picture from responders. A murder-suicide unfolded in Chonburi on the morning of 28 February, as a 65-year-old man killed his estranged wife before taking his own life. The suspected motives behind the incident are jealousy and a financial dispute over land in Buriram. Police were alerted to the crime at around 07:00, when officers from Huai Yai Police Station, forensic experts, medical examiners, and rescue teams arrived at the scene, a single-storey house in Moo 5, Khao Mai Kaew, Bang Lamung district. Inside the bedroom, officers discovered the body of Nongkran Chaipanya, 62, lying on the bed with a deep knife wound to her neck. A 30 cm-long knife was found near her pillow. Close by, her husband, Sawat Mualkamla, 65, was found hanging from the bedroom door. The room had been locked from the inside. The horrific discovery was made by Charoen Chaipanya, 44, Nongkran’s son, who had gone to wake his mother to ask for help in picking up his child from school. When repeated knocks on the door went unanswered, he looked through a window and saw his mother lying in a pool of blood. He quickly broke in and was devastated to find both his mother and stepfather dead. He told police that his mother and Sawat had been together for about 10 years but had recently separated due to Sawat’s violent behaviour, excessive drinking, and frequent arguments. Sawat had moved back to Buriram about seven or eight months ago. However, he returned to Chonburi a week ago, and tensions between the couple quickly escalated. Charoen revealed that Sawat had already shown violent tendencies during his return, including smashing his mother’s phone and locking her in the bedroom. Police suspect that jealousy and financial disagreements may have been the trigger for the fatal attack. According to Charoen, his mother had been pressuring Sawat to sell a plot of land in Buriram to fund a new business venture. Sawat, who reportedly suffered from chronic health issues, including a stroke, may have been struggling with stress, leading to his violent actions. Authorities are now conducting further investigations, including gathering statements from relatives and family members, to establish the full circumstances behind this incident. -- 2025-03-01

Four Injured as Minivan Crashes into Streetlight After Lorry Collision in Phatthalung A road crash occurred in Phatthalung when an 18-wheeler lorry crashed into the rear of a minivan, causing it to veer off the road and collide with a streetlight. The minivan sustained extensive damage, and four people were injured. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353207-four-injured-as-minivan-crashes-into-streetlight-after-lorry-collision-in-phatthalung/

Picture from responders. A road crash occurred in Phatthalung when an 18-wheeler lorry crashed into the rear of a minivan, causing it to veer off the road and collide with a streetlight. The minivan sustained extensive damage, and four people were injured. Fortunately, no fatalities were reported. The incident took place on the Asia Highway in Moo 3, Cha Muang subdistrict, Khuan Khanun district. Police officers from Khuan Khanun Police Station, led by duty officer Pol. Lt. Apipat Maisuk, were alerted to the crash and rushed to the scene alongside rescue personnel from the Phatthalung emergency services. Upon arrival, authorities discovered a severely damaged Toyota minivan, registered in Bangkok, which had been struck from behind by the lorry before crashing into a central reservation streetlight. The driver of the minivan, 70-year-old Mr. Preecha Chorpakakaew, suffered a laceration on his lip, pain in both arms, and injuries to his legs, leaving him unable to move. Emergency responders carefully extricated him from the wreckage before transporting him to hospital for treatment. Inside the minivan, three female Cambodian passengers, who had legally entered Thailand, presumably for tourism, were also injured. They reported general body pain and were taken to Khuan Khanun Hospital for medical attention. Several pieces of luggage and souvenir items inside the vehicle were damaged in the crash. The lorry driver, identified as 26-year-old Mr. Jirapon, stated that he had been driving in the left lane when the minivan suddenly moved into his path. He was unable to avoid the collision, which resulted in the minivan being pushed off the road and into the streetlight. Police have confirmed that further investigations will be conducted, including questioning the minivan driver, to establish the exact cause of the crash -- 2025-03-01

UPDATE Pitbull Attack, Girl Now Out of Danger, Owner Apologises Picture courtesy of Khaosod. On 28 February, Kaimuk’s parents, Mr. Ekachai (37) and Mrs. Priya (34) confirmed that their daughter is no longer in danger after receiving urgent treatment. Initially rushed to Pakkred 2 Hospital, Kaimuk was then transferred to Siriraj Hospital. She is now awake and responsive, able to nod her head in response to questions. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353112-six-year-old-girl-in-critical-condition-after-brutal-dog-mauling-in-nonthaburi/page/3/#findComment-19623822

UPDATE Pitbull Attack, Girl Now Out of Danger, Owner Apologises Picture courtesy of Khoasod. In a shocking incident, a male pitbull attacked 8-year-old “Kaimuk” while she was in her bedroom with her grandmother. The young girl was severely injured, suffering deep bite wounds to her neck and head, and was rushed to the hospital in critical condition. Responders and authorities had initially reported her age incorrectly as 6 years old. On 28 February, Kaimuk’s parents, Mr. Ekachai (37) and Mrs. Priya (34) confirmed that their daughter is no longer in danger after receiving urgent treatment. Initially rushed to Pakkred 2 Hospital, Kaimuk was then transferred to Siriraj Hospital. She is now awake and responsive, able to nod her head in response to questions. Regarding the legal proceedings, the police have scheduled interviews with both the girl’s family and the pitbull’s owner for further investigation. The family is preparing to seek compensation for medical expenses, travel costs, lost wages, and damages for the trauma caused by the attack. The pitbull’s owner, 23-year-old “Da,” expressed her heartfelt apology, stating that it was never her intention for the dog to escape and cause harm. She explained that the gate was accidentally left open by someone else, which allowed the dog to slip out. Da, who works as an online vendor, promised to take responsibility for the incident but mentioned that her family does not have substantial financial means. Da, who has owned the dog since it was a puppy, emphasised that the dog had never shown aggression before. However, she remains baffled as to why it attacked Kaimuk. In response to the incident, Phongphat Theppathipan, an officer from the Nonthaburi Provincial Livestock Office, recommended that the dog undergo a surgical procedure to remove its canine teeth to prevent further attacks. Additionally, local community members are being consulted to decide whether the dog should be relocated, as there are young children and families living nearby. Surveillance footage from a neighbour’s security camera, reveals the disturbing sounds of a child screaming, followed by frantic cries for help. The pitbull’s owner’s brother ran out to assist, using a piece of wire to force the dog to release the girl. The investigation continues as the local authorities look into the details surrounding this event. -- 2025-02-28

Thai media coverage of the raid.

UPDATE All Victims’ Belongings Recovered; Driver Faces Charges for Negligence Authorities at the Wang Khon Daeng Police Station stated that all personal belongings have been confirmed as recovered, while charges have been laid against the driver for negligent driving that led to deaths and serious injuries. Police Colonel Sopon Pramanee, the station chief, along with investigative officers, conducted an inventory of additional luggage found in the overturned bus. This included cash, gold bracelets, mobile phones, and personal items, which were displayed in front of the media to assure the public that lost possessions had been returned. The local police chief had ordered a thorough investigation into the missing items after concerns were raised regarding the property of the deceased. An inspection was conducted to check for belongings beneath the bus. Family members of the victims were notified about the recovery of items, including a diamond ring found on the deceased mother’s finger and it was confirmed the reported missing gold, was never on the bus. All recovered possessions have been handed over to the Prajinburi Municipality for distribution to the families. The driver has been charged with negligent driving resulting in death and serious injury, as well as damage to others’ property. Ongoing investigations aim to determine the extent of the driver’s liability. The bus owner is also under scrutiny, with further legal actions anticipated if culpability is established. At Nadi Hospital, local officials, including District Chief Somjai Puthasena and representatives from the Red Cross, have been providing support and care packages to injured passengers from the crash. Six patients are still receiving treatment at Nadi Hospital, while four are at Kabinde Hospital and another four at Aphai Phubet Hospital, where some remain in critical condition under close medical supervision. Some survivors at Nadi Hospital are preparing to return to their hometown of Prachinburi, with arrangements made for transportation. The hospital has also deployed a psychological support team to assist with the mental health of the injured. A survivor, Ms. Jariya Sena, who was on the bus during the incident, recounted the terrifying moment when the bus crashed. “It was late, and everyone was asleep. I only woke up after we crashed. I saw the injured, and soon after, rescue teams arrived,” she explained. Her girlfriend was killed in the incident. Reflecting on the tragic circumstances, she expressed sorrow over plans to register their marriage after the legalisation of equal marriage rights, which will now never come to pass. The Royal Secretariat Office has offered comprehensive assistance to all injured victims, ensuring that they receive the necessary medical care and support. As investigations continue, the local community mourns the loss of life and offers support to the families affected by this devastating incident. -- 2025-02-28

Expat Arrested Keeping Exotic and Protected Wildlife Authorities have raided the home of a 54-year-old expatriate, Mr. Francisco Ramos, a Spanish national and former TV presenter for Discovery Channel, following complaints about illegal wildlife possession on his vast 98-rai estate in Kanchanaburi Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353117-expat-arrested-for-keeping-exotic-and-protected-wildlife/

Picture from arrest. Authorities have raided the home of a 54-year-old expatriate, Mr. Francisco Ramos, a Spanish national and former TV presenter for Discovery Channel, following complaints about illegal wildlife possession on his vast 98-rai estate in Kanchanaburi Province. Officers from the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division (NRECD), in coordination with immigration police and wildlife officials, executed a court-approved search warrant at a property in Lao Khwan district. Reports had alleged that the owner was keeping a variety of protected and exotic animals, including species imported from abroad. During the search, authorities discovered over 50 animals, including kangaroos, ostriches, capybaras, emus, peacocks, miniature livestock such as pygmy goats and cows, wild boars, civets, and several protected reptiles, including Sulcata tortoises and reticulated pythons. Mr. Francisco, the property’s owner, admitted to purchasing the animals as pets. He claimed that the land belonged to his son, who was born from his marriage to former Thai model Alisa Inthusamit, also known as Yuyee, a well-known figure from the 1990s, who in 2014 received a 15-year sentence for smuggling cocaine into the country. She also received a prison term of three months, handed down in a separate case by the Min Buri Court, which convicted her of smuggling protected wildlife into the country. Both Yuyee and her husband, at the time, claimed she was framed by an influential person they had angered by setting free animals held by wildlife traffickers. She was released in 2020, after serving 6 years. Francisco also revealed that he had frequently posted pictures and videos of the animals on his Facebook and YouTube channels, which may have led to the complaints that triggered the investigation. Police have charged Francisco with possession of protected wildlife without proper permits, a violation of Thailand’s Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act of 2019. He has been ordered to provide documentation proving legal ownership of the animals. If additional offences are discovered, further legal action will be taken. -- 2025-02-28

Body of Schoolgirl Found Stuffed in Sack in Tak Police have launched an investigation after the body of a young schoolgirl, believed to be around 12 to 13 years old, was discovered stuffed inside a sack by the roadside in Mae Sot, Tak Province. Authorities estimate she had been dead for at least two weeks. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353116-body-of-schoolgirl-found-stuffed-in-sack-in-tak/

Picture from responders. Police have launched an investigation after the body of a young schoolgirl, believed to be around 12 to 13 years old, was discovered stuffed inside a sack by the roadside in Mae Sot, Tak Province. Authorities estimate she had been dead for at least two weeks. The gruesome discovery was made in Ban Nam Dip, Mae Ka subdistrict, when a local dog dragged a piece of decomposed flesh and bone onto the road. Nearby, residents noticed a foul-smelling green hessian sack lying by the roadside with its opening partially undone. Police from Checkpoint 409, located along the Mae Sot–Mae Ramat road, were alerted and arrived at the scene along with forensic officers and rescue teams. Upon examination, they found skeletal remains clad in a partially removed pair of black school tracksuit bottoms, likely dislodged by scavenging animals. The decomposed body wearing a white and blue school sports jersey bearing the emblem of Ban San Pa Rai School in Phra That subdistrict, Mae Ramat district. Forensic examination and evidence suggested she had been bludgeoned on the head with a bamboo stick. Authorities suspect the victim was lured, assaulted, and murdered before her body was stuffed into the sack and dumped by the roadside. The remains have been sent to Mae Sot Hospital for further examination, including DNA identification. Police are reviewing missing person reports in the area and have contacted local schools in an effort to establish the girl’s identity. -- 2025-02-28

Indian Man Arrested for Illegal Loan Sharking Police have arrested an Indian national who was allegedly operating an illegal money-lending business, charging an extortionate interest rate of 20% per day. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353115-indian-man-arrested-for-illegal-loan-sharking /

Picture of arrest Police have arrested an Indian national who was allegedly operating an illegal money-lending business, charging an extortionate interest rate of 20% per day. At approximately 14:00 on 27 February, officers from Tha Ruea Police Station received reports from local residents in Tha Ruea subdistrict, Tha Maka district, Kanchanaburi province, about a foreign man suspected of running an illegal loan sharking operation. Acting on the tip-off, police launched an investigation and soon located the suspect, identified as Mr. Vijay Kumar, 31, an Indian national, riding a motorcycle while collecting payments from borrowers along the Rang Kratai-U Lok Si Muen Road in Tha Maka. Upon searching the suspect, police found a small notebook containing records of illegal loans. Further questioning revealed that Kumar had been lending money at a daily interest rate of 20%, far exceeding the legal limit in Thailand. Officers arrested him and took him to Tha Ruea Police Station for further questioning. During the interrogation, officers attempted to contact Kumar’s alleged gang leader using his mobile phone. However, the call was abruptly cut off, after which Kumar refused to provide any further information to the authorities. Police have formally charged Mr. Vijay Kumar and have handed him over to investigators for further legal proceedings. -- 2025-02-28

Pond Fall Claims Life of Security Guard in Chachoengsao An incident in Bang Nam Priao district, Chachoengsao, has resulted in the drowning of a 38-year-old security guard, identified as Mr. Pornchai Paengud, while on duty at the TT Panich Transport Co., Ltd. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353114-pond-fall-claims-life-of-security-guard-in-chachoengsao/

Picture from responders. An incident in Bang Nam Priao district, Chachoengsao, has resulted in the drowning of a 38-year-old security guard, identified as Mr. Pornchai Paengud, while on duty at the TT Panich Transport Co., Ltd. Local police at Bang Nam Priao Police Station received reports of the incident early morning 27 February. Officers arrived at the scene in Moo 4, Pong Akat Sub-district to find Mr. Paengud’s body submerged in a pond within the company grounds. Preliminary investigations suggest that Mr. Paengud was conducting his rounds around the company’s ground when he accidentally fell into the pond and due to his disability, as he had a prosthetic right leg, he was unable to rescue himself from the water. According to work friends, Mr. Paengud was known to drink occasionally but was not a drug user. Freinds reported that it was common for him to patrol the area as part of his duties. The alarm was raised when friends discovered his prosthetic leg near the pond and subsequently noticed his body submerged in the water. Authorities responded promptly to the scene, and an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Mr. Paengud’s death is underway. Officers are collecting statements from colleagues to piece together the events leading to the incident. -- 2025-02-28

Six-Year-Old Girl in Critical Condition After Brutal Dog Mauling in Nonthaburi Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A six-year-old girl is fighting for her life after being viciously attacked by a pit bull in her home in Pak Kret, Nonthaburi. The dog dragged the child from her bed, inflicting severe injuries to her neck and head, tearing off the skin and exposing parts of her skull. She remains in intensive care at Pak Kret Hospital. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353112-six-year-old-girl-in-critical-condition-after-brutal-dog-mauling-in-nonthaburi/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod A six-year-old girl is fighting for her life after being viciously attacked by a pit bull in her home in Pak Kret, Nonthaburi. The dog dragged the child from her bed, inflicting severe injuries to her neck and head, tearing off the skin and exposing parts of her skull. She remains in intensive care at Pak Kret Hospital. Emergency responders from Bua Phet Rescue Unit rushed to a rental property in Soi Sukha Pracha Sarn 2 after receiving distress calls on the evening of 27;February, about a violent dog attack. The home, situated in the Saeng Chan fishing pond community, had no perimeter fence. Bloodstains were found scattered around the bedroom, where the attack took place. Neighbours identified the victim as Kaimook, a six-year-old girl who sustained deep lacerations on her head, including a seven-inch wound exposing her skull, as well as additional injuries to her neck, ears, and left arm. Somsak Anthapanya, a 48-year-old shop owner, was among the first to respond after hearing the girl’s screams. He recounted a terrifying struggle to free her from the powerful grip of the pit bull, named ‘Solar.’ “I rushed in and saw the dog biting her neck. I managed to pull it off, but it attacked again, going for her head,” he said. His son, New, 27, witnessed the attack and described how the dog had wandered into the house before launching its brutal assault. “It first bit her neck and dragged her to the floor. Even after we pried it off, it lunged again, biting her head and tearing her scalp. Eventually, someone managed to strangle the dog with a rope until it let go.” Solar, a seven-year-old male pit bull, belonged to Montien Roopyim, 54, a neighbour. She admitted ownership of the dog and apologised to the girl’s family, insisting the attack was unintentional. According to her, the dog escaped after another neighbour, Jit, 60, failed to lock the gate properly while collecting water from her home. “I never imagined this would happen. I raised Solar carefully, and he never attacked anyone before. I am devastated, and my son is at the hospital watching over the girl. But I also want to know how Jit will take responsibility because it was his mistake that allowed the dog to get out,” she said tearfully. Her brother, Naruthep, 26, who assisted in restraining the dog, confirmed the family had always taken precautions. “We secured the gate with a latch and an extra rope. This wouldn’t have happened if the gate had been locked properly,” he insisted. Jit, the neighbour responsible for leaving the gate unlocked, admitted his mistake but said he had assumed the dog had returned to its cage. “I accept that I opened the gate, but I did close it, I just didn’t lock it. I will discuss the matter with the dog’s owner and find a way to resolve this.” Kaimook remains in a critical state in the intensive care unit. Doctors are monitoring her closely due to the severity of her wounds. Authorities are investigating the incident and considering potential legal action. -- 2025-02-28

Karaoke Owner in Udon Thani Arrested for Prostitution Ring Police have arrested the owner of a karaoke bar in Udon Thani province for allegedly operating a prostitution ring involving girls under the age of 18. The suspect initially denied the charges but was forced to confess after evidence, including marked banknotes used in a police sting operation, linked him to the crime. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353111-karaoke-owner-in-udon-thani-arrested-for-prostitution-ring/

Picture from raid Police have arrested the owner of a karaoke bar in Udon Thani province for allegedly operating a prostitution ring involving girls under the age of 18. The suspect initially denied the charges but was forced to confess after evidence, including marked banknotes used in a police sting operation, linked him to the crime. The operation was led by Pol. Maj. Gen. Songklod Krikkriaya, commander of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (ATPD), who ordered a team under Pol. Col. Sarawut Chantawong, superintendent of Division 3, and Pol. Lt. Col. Prawet Sangphrom, investigative officer, to apprehend the suspect. The arrest took place at a karaoke bar in Kumphawapi district, Udon Thani. The suspect, identified as Mr. Nopphorn 38, faces multiple charges, including human trafficking for the purpose of sexual exploitation involving minors, operating an unlicensed entertainment venue, and employing undocumented foreign workers. Authorities had received tips that the karaoke bar was exploiting girls for prostitution. In response, undercover officers were sent to investigate. They discovered that the bar employed girls, some as young as 17, to serve food and drinks, as well as to engage in sexual activities with customers. The girls, both Thai and Laotian nationals, were reportedly offered for sexual services at prices ranging from 2,000 to 3,500 baht per session. Mr. Nopphorn allegedly facilitated these transactions, charging an additional 300 to 500 baht for arranging the encounters. Payments were made either in cash or via bank transfers to the girls' accounts, which were linked to the bar's financial system. During the raid, police seized cash as evidence and rescued several victims, including Laotian girls who had been lured into the prostitution ring. Mr. Nopphorn initially denied all allegations, claiming that the cash found was money sent by Laotian workers to their families back home. However, police confirmed that the serial numbers on the banknotes matched those used in the undercover operation, which had been meticulously recorded as part of the investigation. The suspect has been handed over to investigators from Division 3 of the ATPD for further legal proceedings. Authorities are continuing their efforts to identify and assist all victims involved in the case. -- 2025-02-28

Jealous Ex-Lover Shoots New Boyfriend Dead in Ratchaburi A 44-year-old man was shot dead in his home in the early hours of 27 February, by the jealous ex-boyfriend of his new partner in Photharam district, Ratchaburi. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353109-jealous-ex-lover-shoots-new-boyfriend-dead-in-ratchaburi/

Picture from responders. A 44-year-old man was shot dead in his home in the early hours of 27 February, by the jealous ex-boyfriend of his new partner in Photharam district, Ratchaburi. Police officers from Photharam Police Station, along with forensic experts, emergency responders, and medical personnel from Photharam Hospital, were called to a makeshift residence in Soi Fa subdistrict following reports of a fatal shooting. At the scene, officers discovered the body of Mr. Nopparat, lying face down in a pool of blood on his bed. He was dressed in light blue shorts and a white T-shirt and had sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the right side of his chest, with the bullet exiting through his back. A single .38 Super shell casing was found at the scene and collected as evidence. Ms. Saifon, 35, the victim’s girlfriend, who had recently started a relationship with him, told police that they were in bed when someone called out loudly from outside. As Mr. Nopparat sat up to investigate, a single gunshot rang out, striking him fatally. She immediately called the authorities. She identified the shooter as Mr. Somnuk, her former partner, stating that he had been stalking and threatening her since their breakup. She recalled that before firing the shot, he had circled the house, called out, and then shot. Ms. Saifon revealed that she had ended her relationship with the suspect a week earlier. However, he had continued to threaten her, even assaulting her with a gun two to three days before the shooting. On that occasion, he warned her to “watch out” and struck her on the head with the gun. She stated that the suspect, a cattle farmer and rice farmer, frequently loitered near her home and fired shots into the air. He had demanded that she leave her new partner, but she refused, telling him she wanted to move on. She also recounted a previous incident in which she had to hide in the bathroom to avoid him. On another occasion, he allegedly held a gun to her head but did not shoot, instead striking her twice with it. The victim’s father had reportedly warned him earlier that evening that the suspect had returned, but Mr. Nopparat ignored the threat. The victim had previously been assaulted by the suspect and had filed a police report. Concerned for her safety, Mr. Nopparat had invited Ms. Saifon to stay with him, fearing that the suspect might harm her at her home. Authorities have launched a manhunt for the suspect, who fled the scene after the shooting. Police are gathering evidence and statements as they work to bring him to justice. -- 2025-02-28

Chinese Nationals Arrested for Operating Illegal Thai Costume Rental Business Two Chinese nationals have been arrested for operating an unauthorised Thai costume rental and makeup service near the renowned Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). The arrests were made following a tip-off regarding foreign nationals engaging in illegal activities. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353107-chinese-nationals-arrested-for-operating-illegal-thai-costume-rental-business/

Picture from arrest. Two Chinese nationals have been arrested for operating an unauthorised Thai costume rental and makeup service near the renowned Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha). The arrests were made following a tip-off regarding foreign nationals engaging in illegal activities. On 27 February, Police Major General Prasart Khemprasith, head of Immigration Bureau 1, and Police Colonel Raphipat Utsaha, deputy chief of the bureau, coordinated with officials from the Department of Employment to investigate reports of illegal foreign employment in the Phra Nakhon district of Bangkok. Acting on information that two Chinese individuals were running a costume rental shop and providing makeup services to tourists, police intensified efforts to enforce immigration laws, as directed by Police Lieutenant General Panumas Boonyalaksm, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau. Police, led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Suriyah Pongsombat, conducted checks on six rental shops in the area, discovering one establishment operating illegally. The officers found two Chinese nationals working as makeup instructors without valid work permits. The two individuals were taken into custody and are facing charges for working without a permit, in violation of Article 8 of the Royal Decree on the Management of Foreign Workers (2017) and subsequent amendments. The shop owner is also liable for hiring foreign workers without proper permits. Under Thai law, foreign nationals working without a permit can face fines ranging from 5,000 to 50,000 baht and are subject to deportation without the possibility of obtaining a work permit for two years post-deportation. Employers who hire illegal foreign workers face fines between 10,000 and 100,000 baht per employee. Repeat offenders risk imprisonment for up to one year or fines between 50,000 and 200,000 baht per illegal worker, in addition to a three-year ban on hiring foreign nationals. Authorities continue to urge the public to report any suspicious activities related to illegal foreign employment, especially in tourist areas, as they enhance efforts to combat this issue. -- 2025-02-28