Georgealbert

Small Rubbish Fire Sparks Chaos at Nana Plaza A small rubbish fire in an alley behind Nana Plaza in Bangkok caused no injuries or structural damage but created significant disruption for businesses in the area. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349661-small-rubbish-fire-sparks-chaos-at-nana-plaza/

Picture and video from X. A small rubbish fire in an alley behind Nana Plaza in Bangkok caused no injuries or structural damage but created significant disruption for businesses in the area. Bangkok emergency services received reports of smoke and fire at the Sukhumvit Soi 4 entertainment complex at approximately 00:30 a.m. on January 22. A plume of grey smoke rose above the plaza, although it was not visible from within due to Nana Plaza’s roof covering. Firefighters and emergency responders arrived quickly and ordered the full evacuation of the plaza. Emergency lights and fire alarms were triggered, prompting bars to take swift action. They coordinated an efficient and orderly evacuation of guests and staff, with no injuries reported during the incident. In addition to Nana Plaza, fire crews alerted and evacuated guests at the nearby Majestic Suites and Nana Hotel, located across Sukhumvit Soi 4. By 01.00 the street outside the plaza was filled with bar workers, hotel guests, and passersby, many of whom captured the scene on their mobile phones. Despite the dramatic response, the fire turned out to be minor, confined to a pile of rubbish in a narrow alley between Nana Plaza and adjacent businesses. The flames were extinguished with no damage reported to the plaza’s structure or businesses. Fire service officials initial investigation points to the fire may have been caused by a cigarette butt tossed from a balcony at the Majestic Suites hotel. The incident remains under investigation, but a thorough cleanup and stricter enforcement in the alleyways surrounding Nana Plaza are expected to be put in place by authorities. -- 2025-01-23 My Movie 1.mp4

Rental Homes Destroyed in Devastating Fire in Banglamung A ferocious fire ravaged five rental homes in Banglamung, Chonburi, on the evening of 22 January leaving destruction in its wake. The blaze, believed to have been sparked by an electrical short circuit, caused extensive damage to property but thankfully resulted in no fatalities. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349642-rental-homes-destroyed-in-devastating-fire-in-banglamung/

Picture from responders. A ferocious fire ravaged five rental homes in Banglamung, Chonburi, on the evening of 22 January leaving destruction in its wake. The blaze, believed to have been sparked by an electrical short circuit, caused extensive damage to property but thankfully resulted in no fatalities. At approximately 18:00 Pol. Lt. Col. Suchart Dusadee of Bang Lamung Police Station was alerted to the incident, which occurred within the grounds of Wat Chittaphawan, Moo 1, Naklua Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District. Upon receiving the report, fire engines from Pattaya City and neighbouring municipal areas were swiftly dispatched to the scene. The fire engulfed a row of two-storey houses, constructed with concrete lower floors and wooden upper levels. Intense flames spread rapidly, with explosions heard intermittently from the blaze. Firefighters battled for over an hour to bring the fire under control, ultimately managing to contain it. However, five homes were completely destroyed in the disaster. A Mercedes-Benz parked in front of one of the houses narrowly escaped damage. Mr. Thanawat Wilai, a 26-year-old car repairman, recounted that the fire appeared to originate from the far-right house, which had recently been vacated by tenants. “I was stepping out of my house when I noticed smoke rising. Moments later, flames erupted and quickly spread,” he explained. Acting promptly, he contacted the authorities. One of the homeowners, Mr. Yongyut Khiawdee, aged 55, sustained burns to his back while attempting to contain the fire. “I heard the sound of an electrical short circuit, followed by sparks near the roof. I tried to douse the flames with water, but the fire spread too quickly. Burning embers fell on me, causing my injuries,” he shared. Following the containment of the blaze, police documented the incident and coordinated with forensic officers from Chonburi’s Division 2 to conduct a thorough investigation. Preliminary findings suggest the cause was an electrical fault, although further examination is required to confirm this. The total damage is yet to be assessed. Local authorities, led by the Bang Lamung District Chief, are evaluating the situation to determine appropriate measures to assist the affected residents. -- 2025-01-23

Former Managing Director of UK Company Dies in Mysterious Fall from Pattaya Condo A 74-year-old former managing director of a UK company has died in a mysterious fall from a condominium in Pattaya, Thailand. Initial reports indicate that the deceased, identified as Mr. Kavin Roy Burton, had been living with paralysis. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349626-former-managing-director-of-uk-company-dies-in-mysterious-fall-from-pattaya-condo/

Picture courtesy of Daily News. A 74-year-old former managing director of a UK company has died in a mysterious fall from a condominium in Pattaya, Thailand. Initial reports indicate that the deceased, identified as Mr. Kavin Roy Burton, had been living with paralysis. Police were alerted to the incident in the early hours on January 22 when Mr. Burton fell from the fourth floor of the condo, located in Soi Wat Boonkanchanaram, (Soi Khao Noi) , Bang Lamung District, Chonbur. Authorities, including Deputy Inspector Police Lieutenant Ongart Thumsud from Nong Prue Police Station and Tourist Police Captain Suparat Meepricha, responded to the scene alongside rescue workers. The British national was discovered wearing only a pair of trousers, lying lifeless on the ground near the building’s walkway. An inspection of the condominium unit, Room B407, revealed no signs of a struggle or theft. However, Mr. Burton’s wheelchair was found positioned near the balcony. Security guard Mr. Jarunsak Onnim, 61, stated that the deceased had been residing in the condo for an extended period and required daily care due to his medical condition. The exact circumstances of the fall remain unclear, and Mr. Jarunsak confirmed he was notified of the incident by another foreign resident who had heard the fall. Police have sent Mr. Burton’s body to the Police General Hospital’s Forensic Institute in Bangkok for a post-mortem examination. Efforts are also being made to contact the deceased’s family in order to arrange for the repatriation of his remains or conduct funeral rites. Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to uncover the details surrounding this incident. Thai media have reported the name a Kavin, but that maybe a translation error, so it may Kevin. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai) or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress or depression. Seek out help. -- 2025-01-23

Foreign National Arrested in Chiang Mai for Selling Psilocybin Mushrooms to Tourists Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 59-year-old foreign man, nationality not disclosed, was arrested in Chiang Mai for selling illicit drugs, specifically psilocybin mushrooms (commonly known as “magic mushrooms”), mixed with honey to foreign tourists. The man, who reportedly has a Thai wife, was apprehended at an unnamed shop located on Ratchawithi Road, in the Sriphum district of Chiang Mai. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349625-foreign-national-arrested-in-chiang-mai-for-selling-psilocybin-mushrooms-to-tourists/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 59-year-old foreign man, nationality not disclosed, was arrested in Chiang Mai for selling illicit drugs, specifically psilocybin mushrooms (commonly known as “magic mushrooms”), mixed with honey to foreign tourists. The man, who reportedly has a Thai wife, was apprehended at an unnamed shop located on Ratchawithi Road, in the Sriphum district of Chiang Mai. On 22 January, Police Colonel Prachaya Tisla, the Superintendent of Chiang Mai City Police, instructed officers from the Anti-Drug Unit to raid the premises following an investigation. The authorities seized 15 bottles of honey containing the psilocybin mushrooms. The investigation revealed that the suspect, a foreign national, had been secretly selling the mushrooms to other tourists in violation of Thai drug laws. The authorities discovered the illegal substances after conducting a thorough search of the unregistered shop. The suspect was taken into custody and charged with the illegal possession of a Type 5 narcotic (psilocybin mushrooms) without proper authorisation. The police have confirmed that legal proceedings will follow. This arrest underscores the ongoing efforts by local authorities to tackle drug-related offences, particularly those involving substances that are illegal in Thailand. -- 2025-01-23

Thief Steals Nearly 70,000 Baht from Turkish Tourist in Pattaya At approximately 05:05 on 22 January, Mr. Mustafa, a 52-year-old Turkish national, reported a theft to police at the Pattaya City Police Station. The victim claimed that his wallet, containing 500 Euros and 1,500 US Dollars, worth approximately 70000 Thai Baht, was stolen while he was standing in front of a hotel on Central Pattaya Road. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349624-thief-steals-nearly-70000-baht-from-turkish-tourist-in-pattaya/

Picture courtesy of Sattahip News. At approximately 05:05 on 22 January, Mr. Mustafa, a 52-year-old Turkish national, reported a theft to police at the Pattaya City Police Station. The victim claimed that his wallet, containing 500 Euros and 1,500 US Dollars, worth approximately 70000 Thai Baht, was stolen while he was standing in front of a hotel on Central Pattaya Road. Mr. Mustafa told officers that as he stood outside the hotel, a woman, who later turned out to be a transgender individual, approached him on a motorbike. She greeted him warmly and offered sexual services before embracing and touching him inappropriately. Mr. Mustafa attempted to push them away, but shortly after, the individual got back on the motorbike and sped off. It was only when he checked his belongings that he realised his wallet had been stolen. Promptly, Mr. Mustafa reported the incident to the authorities. Lieutenant Colonel Phupha Hongyakul, the investigating officer, informed his superior, Police Colonel Navin Theerawit, Chief of Pattaya Police, and initiated an investigation. The police have since reviewed CCTV footage and gathered information from witnesses in an effort to track down the thief and bring them to justice. -- 2025-01-23

Crash Claims One Life and Leaves Another Seriously Injured in Phatthalung A crash on the Maekri-Prunai Khaw Road in the Thamod district of Phatthalung province has resulted in one fatality and one serious injury. The victims, a married couple, were riding their motorcycle to a funeral when the collision occurred. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349623-crash-claims-one-life-and-leaves-another-seriously-injured-in-phatthalung/

Picture from responders. A crash on the Maekri-Prunai Khaw Road in the Thamod district of Phatthalung province has resulted in one fatality and one serious injury. The victims, a married couple, were riding their motorcycle to a funeral when the collision occurred. The incident took place on the morning of January 22, on a rural road in the Klong Yai subdistrict. The couple's motorcycle collided with the rear of a car, causing them to lose control and fall onto the opposite of the road. They were then struck by an oncoming 18-wheeler truck, which ran over them. The fatality has been identified as 76-year-old Mr. Raden Natthan, who was killed instantly at the scene. He was found with severe head injuries, with his skull and brain matter scattered across the road. His wife, 67-year-old Mrs. Amorn Sangyam, was severely injured, unconscious, and suffering from critical head trauma. She was rushed to the Thamod Hospital, where she remains in a coma and is being closely monitored by medical staff. Authorities are investigating the crash, to try to determine why the couple collided with the car. -- 2025-01-23

Thailand’s Anti-Drug Agencies Showcase Tactical Expertise in “Eagle 19” Training Exercise Thailand’s Anti-Drug Operations Command has demonstrated its advanced tactical capabilities in a joint exercise aimed at combating drug trafficking. The training, named “Eagle 19,” was held on January 22, at the Arintharat 26 unit and involved six key agencies working together to enhance their skills in drug interdiction and counter-narcotics operations. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349621-thailand’s-anti-drug-agencies-showcase-tactical-expertise-in-“eagle-19”-training-exercise/

Pictures courtesy of Anti-Drug Operations Command Thailand’s Anti-Drug Operations Command has demonstrated its advanced tactical capabilities in a joint exercise aimed at combating drug trafficking. The training, named “Eagle 19,” was held on January 22, at the Arintharat 26 unit and involved six key agencies working together to enhance their skills in drug interdiction and counter-narcotics operations. The exercise was attended by top officials, including Mr. Pruen Mekhanant, Director of the Narcotics Suppression Bureau, as well as representatives from the National Police Bureau, the Counter-Terrorism Division of the Special Operations Bureau, the Special Investigation Bureau, the Air Force’s military police, and the Department of Special Investigations. “Eagle 19” showcased the integrated operational strength of elite anti-drug forces from six units: Arintharat 26 (Police Special Branch), Eagle 19 (Narcotics Control Board), Sabripusatan (Counter-Terrorism Division), Sabypri 43 (Narcotics Suppression Bureau), the Air Force’s Military Police, and the Department of Special Investigations. The event focused on demonstrating the collaboration of these forces in high-stakes operations aimed at intercepting drug shipments. The exercise simulated three critical scenarios based on drug trafficking intelligence received through the Narcotics Control Board’s hotline (1386): 1) A helicopter drop-and-assault on suspects inside a building; 2) A vehicle interception and arrest; and 3) A raid and search operation within a building. The scenarios were designed to emphasise the tactical coordination and combined operational effectiveness of these agencies, aimed at dismantling complex drug trafficking networks. The demonstration aligned with the government’s strong anti-drug policies, aiming to enhance regional cooperation and improve intelligence-sharing among neighbouring countries. Officials urged that the skills acquired during the training be used to strengthen collaborative efforts across borders, with a focus on asset forfeiture to disrupt and dismantle criminal organisations involved in the drug trade. This comprehensive exercise highlighted the country’s commitment to tackling the complex challenges posed by the global drug trade. -- 2025-01-23

UPDATE Husband and Wife Arrested for Murder of Award-Winning Farmer in Phatthalung In a dramatic turn of events, a husband and wife wanted for the murder of a renowned farmer in Phatthalung were captured in Chiang Rai on January 22. Authorities suspect the couple was planning to escape across the border to Myanmar. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349620-husband-and-wife-arrested-for-murder-of-award-winning-farmer-in-phatthalung/

Update of this story. Husband and Wife Arrested for Murder of Award-Winning Farmer in Phatthalung

UPDATE Picture of arrest. In a dramatic turn of events, a husband and wife wanted for the murder of a renowned farmer in Phatthalung were captured in Chiang Rai on January 22. Authorities suspect the couple was planning to escape across the border to Myanmar. At approximately 10:30, officers from the Special Operations Unit in Chiang Rai Province, in collaboration with investigators from the Mae Sai Police Station, raided a rented property in the Ban Pa Mueat area of Mae Sai district. The suspects had been traced to the location following intelligence from Phatthalung police. The two suspects, identified as husband and wife, were arrested under warrants issued by the Phatthalung Provincial Court: 1. Mr. Sahaphap (alias Homong), 51, of Khuan Khanun district, Phatthalung. He is charged with premeditated murder and possession of firearms and ammunition without a licence. 2. Ms. Natthita (alias Namnoei), 32, of Chum Phae district, Khon Kaen. She faces the same charges as her husband. During initial questioning, the pair claimed to be tourists visiting Mae Sai and denied any involvement in the murder. They stated that they had rented the property as accommodation during their trip, which began on January 19. However, authorities suspect they were attempting to flee across the border to Tachileik, Myanmar. The arrests stem from the murder of Mr. Phop 72, a well-known and award-winning farmer from Khuan Khanun district, Phatthalung. Mr. Phop, owner of the celebrated “Uncle Phop’s Salacca Garden,” was gunned down on January 10th, sustaining six fatal gunshot wounds. Following the crime, Phatthalung police coordinated with their counterparts in Chiang Rai after evidence suggested the suspects had fled north. The arrests were carried out without incident. Authorities are continuing their investigation and plan to transport the suspects back to Phatthalung to face charges. Meanwhile, officials are working to uncover potential motives and the sequence of events leading to the murder. Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348566-respected-farmer-and-agricultural-leader-shot-dead-in-phatthalung/ -- 2025-01-23

Hunt Underway for 31-Year-Old Man Accused of Stabbing Over Alleged Insult Authorities in Buriram Province are in pursuit of a 31-year-old man accused of fatally stabbing a drinking companion in a fit of rage. The suspect, identified as Wannachana, or "Don," reportedly fled the scene after the incident. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349618-hunt-underway-for-31-year-old-man-accused-of-stabbing-over-alleged-insult/

Picture from responders. Authorities in Buriram Province are in pursuit of a 31-year-old man accused of fatally stabbing a drinking companion in a fit of rage. The suspect, identified as Wannachana, or "Don," reportedly fled the scene after the incident, which occurred on the evening of 21 January in Ban Yang, Muang District. According to Police Colonel Chamrat Siriliang, the head of Muang Police Station, the suspect allegedly stabbed the victim, Angkoon, or "Noi," 48, in the chest during a heated exchange at a residence, which doubles as a vehicle repair shop. Eyewitness and homeowner, Mrs. Dao, 59, explained that Don was a frequent visitor to her home, often observing the mechanics at work. On the evening in question, Angkoon, a stranger to both the homeowner and Don, arrived unannounced. Despite not knowing each other, Don and Angkoon decided to purchase local rice whiskey and drink together. At approximately 21.00, Mrs. Dao was startled by screams of pain. Rushing to investigate, she found Angkoon lying on the ground, bleeding heavily from a stab wound in the stomach. Meanwhile, Don stood nearby, brandishing the knife and shouting challenges to anyone who dared confront him. Mrs. Dao attempted to reason with the suspect, who reportedly apologised, claiming he had acted out because Angkoon had spoken to him in an offensive manner. Don then fled the scene on a motorbike, prompting Mrs. Dao to alert the village chief. Miss Nanthika, 49, Don's aunt revealed to police troubling details about his past. She stated that Don had previously worked as a nightclub bouncer in Pattaya before being imprisoned for multiple offences. She also claimed that Don had a history of domestic violence against his former wives and had even been abusive towards her, despite her role in raising him. Miss Nanthika said Don briefly returned to her house after the stabbing, admitting to his actions and asking her to report the incident to the police. However, when no officers arrived by 23.00, Don left again on his motorbike. Authorities are now actively searching for Don, with Police Colonel Chamrat urging the investigative team to prioritise his arrest. Miss Nanthika concluded by stating that she would leave the matter in the hands of the legal system, expressing hope for justice for the victim and closure for the families involved. -- 2025-01-23

Chonburi Songthaew Drivers' Feud Turns Deadly A heated altercation between two red songthaew drivers in Chonburi ended in death when one was struck by the other's vehicle during a confrontation on Sukhumvit Road in Saensuk sub-district on the morning of January 22. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349617-chonburi-songthaew-drivers-feud-turns-deadly/

Picture from responders. A heated altercation between two red songthaew drivers in Chonburi ended in death when one was struck by the other's vehicle during a confrontation on Sukhumvit Road in Saensuk sub-district on the morning of January 22. Police from Saensuk Police Station, led by Deputy Inspector Pol. Lt. Apirach Adirekpullap, responded to the scene at around 10:00, accompanied by rescue personnel from the Traikunatham Foundation. At the scene, they found the lifeless body of Mr. Ek 75, a songthaew driver. Rescue workers attempted CPR, but he was pronounced dead at the scene. Near his feet lay a knife, and parked nearby was his red Toyota Mighty-X songthaew, registered in Chonburi, operating the Sriracha-Nong Mon route. Eyewitness accounts revealed that the incident unfolded following a verbal argument between Mr. Ek and another songthaew driver. Mr. Ek had reportedly driven ahead, blocked the rival's vehicle, and exited his car brandishing a knife. Moments later, he was struck by the rival's red Isuzu D-Max songthaew, registered in Chonburi. A bystander, Mr. Pakpoom, who was passing by to deliver food, told reporters, "I saw the injured man lying face down with a knife at his feet. He was unresponsive, and I immediately called rescue services." The other driver, Mr. Samak 70, later surrendered himself at Saensuk Police Station. Speaking to officers, he explained that the incident stemmed from an earlier argument at the taxi queue. After the argument, I left with my passengers, but he followed me, determined to confront me again. At the scene, he overtook me and stopped abruptly, blocking my path. He got out of his car and approached me with a knife in hand. I panicked and tried to swerve to avoid him, but I ended up hitting him. I had no intention of harming him and came straight to the police station to turn myself in," Mr. Samak stated. Police have since impounded both vehicles and are reviewing CCTV footage to determine the full sequence of events. Further investigations and questioning of Mr. Samak will be conducted before any legal action is taken. -- 2025-01-23

Heartbroken Mother Discovers Son Drowned in Canal After Two-Day Search A sad discovery was made in Pathum Thani’s Khlong Luang District on the evening of 21 January, when the body of a 26-year-old man was recovered from a canal after being missing for two days. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349616-heartbroken-mother-discovers-son-drowned-in-canal-after-two-day-search/

Picture from responders. A sad discovery was made in Pathum Thani’s Khlong Luang District on the evening of 21 January, when the body of a 26-year-old man was recovered from a canal after being missing for two days. At approximately 19.00, police from Khlong Luang Police Station were alerted to the presence of a body in Canal 4, near Soi Khlong 4 West 23/1 in Moo 9, Khlong Si Subdistrict. Rescue divers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, forensic officers from Thammasat University Hospital, and local foundation staff were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, officers found a Honda Click motorcycle, registration number from Bangkok, parked near the canal. A pair of white sandals and a blue shirt were left on the embankment. After a 20-minute search, divers located the body submerged in the water. The deceased was identified as Mr. Thanongsak Kamthong, aged 26, who had likely been dead for about 24 hours. The victim’s mother, Mrs. Khonthai Kamthong, 62, tearfully recounted that her son, who worked as a delivery driver, had lived with her but stayed in a separate room. He left their home at Wat Kla Cha-um Housing Estate at around 14.00 on 20 January. Despite her attempts to call and locate him, there was no response. Mrs. Khonthai was only informed of her son’s whereabouts when police contacted her, asking if she was the owner of the abandoned motorcycle. She rushed to the scene, where she found that her son had drowned. “He never talked about any problems. I don’t understand why this happened,” she lamented. Mr. Somporn Pathumya, 55, the village head of Moo 9, explained that a resident had reported seeing the motorcycle parked by the canal at 16.00 on 20 January. The vehicle remained there at 18.00 with a person seated nearby. By the next morning, the motorcycle was still present, but the individual was nowhere to be seen. The sight of sandals and a shirt left on the bank led Mr. Somporn to notify the authorities, suspecting someone had jumped into the canal. Police Sub-Lieutenant Warut Phumipak of Khlong Luang Police Station oversaw the investigation and documented the scene. The body was sent to the Thammasat University Hospital forensic unit for further examination to determine the exact cause of death. Investigations are ongoing as family and authorities seek answers to the events leading up to this incident. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai) or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress or depression. Seek out help. -- 2025-01-23