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Picture from responders. A crash involving two first-year Kasetsart University students occurred late on 16 January when their motorcycle collided with the rear of a public bus on Ngamwongwan Road in Bangkok, leaving one dead and the other seriously injured. At approximately 21:00, police officers from Bang Khen Police Station, along with forensic doctors from Bhumibol Hospital and rescue volunteers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation, responded to a report of the accident near Gate 1 of Kasetsart University in Chatuchak District. At the scene, a Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) bus, operating on route 24 between Prachaniwet 3 and Victory Monument, was found parked in the leftmost lane. The rear-right side of the bus had been damaged from the impact. Nearby, a blue-black Honda Click motorcycle with Songkhla license plates was discovered, its front-end damaged and headlight dislodged. On the road, rescuers found 19-year-old Mr Anuchon, a first-year student in the Faculty of Science, who had been riding pillion. He was critically injured and was given first aid before being rushed to Paolo Kaset Hospital. Tragically, the driver of the motorcycle, 19-year-old Mr Kritthaphas, also a first-year student in the Faculty of Science, was pronounced dead at the scene. He had sustained multiple injuries, including a severe head wound, and had lost a significant amount of blood. According to initial investigations, the two students had left the university after a late-night study session and were on their way back to their accommodation. The bus conductor reported that the vehicle had stopped to pick up and drop off passengers at a bus stop opposite the university when a loud noise was heard from the rear. Upon inspection, they discovered the motorcycle had crashed into the back of the bus. Police have questioned the bus driver and are reviewing CCTV footage from the area to determine the exact cause of the crash. The body of the deceased has been sent to the forensic institute at Bhumibol Hospital for an autopsy, while the family has been informed. -- 2025-01-18

UPDATE Swiss National Arrested After Holding Thai Wife and Child at Gunpoint A foreign man has been arrested after allegedly threatening his Thai wife and child with a firearm and forcing them into a vehicle. The woman, who attempted to escape, was rescued with the help of a local witness and emergency responders. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349108-foreigner-holds-thai-wife-at-gunpoint-in-car-–-police-in-chumphon-launch-search/#findComment-19520588

UPDATE Swiss National Arrested After Holding Thai Wife and Child at Gunpoint Picture from dash-cam. A foreign man has been arrested after allegedly threatening his Thai wife and child with a firearm and forcing them into a vehicle. The woman, who attempted to escape, was rescued with the help of a local witness and emergency responders. At approximately 11:00 on January 17, 38-year-old Kiratikarn, from Pato District, Chumphon, was driving with 39-year-old Suphasara when they noticed a Ford 4-door vehicle driving ahead of them. As they followed, they observed the passenger door of the vehicle open, and a woman was seen trying to jump out of the moving car. Personal belongings were also falling from the vehicle, suggesting an altercation. The witness, concerned for the woman’s safety, began recording a video as evidence and alerted emergency services. They continued following the vehicle, and upon closer inspection, the driver was identified as a foreign man, who gestured threateningly with what looked like a gun in his hand. The foreign man then attempted to flee, driving erratically toward the direction of Laung Takor in the Thung Tako District. The witness also observed a child inside the car. Police were immediately informed of the situation, and efforts were made to locate the vehicle. The car was spotted near the Wangkakow intersection in Thung Tako, Chumphon, but the driver swiftly turned and accelerated, evading the pursuing emergency vehicle. A short time later, officers from the Chumphon Police Department successfully intercepted the Ford vehicle in the area of Ban Nohut Police Station in Chumphon. The driver, identified as 37-year-old Sandro, a Swiss national, was arrested and is now under investigation. Authorities are continuing to question the suspect and investigate the reasons behind the incident. It is believed that the woman involved, 40-year-old Lamai from Udon Thani, is married to the suspect, but further details are yet to be confirmed. -- 2025-01-17

UPDATE Police Continues to Investigate Burglary at Chinese Home in Bang Lamung Police are continuing the investigation to solve a high-profile burglary at a property in Bang Lamung, Chonburi, where an estimated 100 million baht worth of valuables were stolen. The suspects targeted a large safe containing luxury watches, leaving behind significant damage. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349054-luxury-watches-worth-over-100-million-baht-stolen-in-chinese-home-burglary-near-pattaya/#findComment-19520428

UPDATE Police Continues to Investigate Burglary at Chinese Home in Bang Lamung Picture from responders. Police are continuing the investigation to solve a high-profile burglary at a property in Bang Lamung, Chonburi, where an estimated 100 million baht worth of valuables were stolen. The suspects targeted a large safe containing luxury watches, leaving behind significant damage. The incident occurred at a residence in a housing estate in Huai Yai subdistrict. The property belongs to a Chinese businessman who has not visited Thailand for over eight years. The safe, which was forcibly opened, was brought into the house by the owner when the property was purchased. At noon on January 17, local police, led by Police Colonel Atthapol Itthayophasakul, along with forensic experts, revisited the crime scene to gather further evidence. The safe, measuring 1 metre wide, 1.5 metres high, and weighing 250 kilograms, had been embedded in concrete and reinforced with thick steel. It was pried open using hammers and crowbars, leaving debris and dust scattered throughout the room. Investigators also examined eight wooden watch boxes, each capable of holding ten watches, and an empty Rolex box, which were left behind. The property was being occupied by Mr. Yu Chao Zhao, a 43-year-old Chinese national, who told police he had been living there for four months. He claimed to have been invited by a friend to stay and look after the house. Mr. Zhao stated that he was unaware of the safe’s contents and denied any involvement in the burglary. Police revealed that the house is jointly owned by a Chinese individual, identified only as Mr. Wang Liang Chen, and a Thai partner. Mr. Wang brought the safe to the property eight years ago while running a tour company in Thailand. However, legal issues in China have prevented him from returning to Thailand since then. Authorities are examining CCTV footage to determine how and when the suspects gained access to the property. Initial findings suggest the burglary was carefully planned, with the intruders specifically targeting the safe. The stolen items, primarily luxury watches, are valued at over 100 million baht. However, police are awaiting verification of these claims as the property’s original owner has not yet provided supporting evidence. Investigators believe the suspects had knowledge of the safe’s presence and may have acted on information about its potential contents. Police are continuing to follow leads and have urged anyone with relevant information to come forward. -- 2025-01-17

Foreigner Holds Thai Wife at Gunpoint in Car – Police in Chumphon Launch Search A shocking incident unfolded in Chumphon Province on January 17, when a foreign man reportedly held his Thai wife at gunpoint inside a black Ford pickup truck. The vehicle, carrying the man, the woman, and two children, is currently the focus of an urgent police search. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349109-foreigner-holds-thai-wife-at-gunpoint-in-car-–-police-in-chumphon-launch-search/

Picture from dash-cam. A shocking incident unfolded in Chumphon Province on January 17, when a foreign man reportedly held his Thai wife at gunpoint inside a black Ford pickup truck. The vehicle, carrying the man, the woman, and two children, is currently the focus of an urgent police search. The incident began in Phato District before the vehicle was seen turning left at the Wang Tako junction in Lang Suan District, heading towards Chumphon. A witness shared a video showing the distressed woman attempting to open the truck’s door and escape while the vehicle was still moving at speed. Despite her efforts, she was unable to jump out, and the truck continued on its way. The witness who posted the video identified the vehicle as a black, four-door Ford pickup with license plate from Udon Thani.” . Emergency services, including police and rescue vehicles, have been following the suspect’s route but were unable to catch up. At one point, the foreign man, reported as being a westerner, allegedly brandished a firearm to threaten the pursuing rescuers. Witnesses noted that the truck turned back towards Lang Suan District at high speed, further complicating the search. Police in Chumphon are now coordinating efforts to locate the vehicle and ensure the safety of the woman and children inside. Authorities are appealing for public cooperation and urge anyone with information about the vehicle’s whereabouts to come forward. -- 2025-01-17

Picture from dash-cam. A shocking incident unfolded in Chumphon Province on January 17, when a foreign man reportedly held his Thai wife at gunpoint inside a black Ford pickup truck. The vehicle, carrying the man, the woman, and two children, is currently the focus of an urgent police search. The incident began in Phato District before the vehicle was seen turning left at the Wang Tako junction in Lang Suan District, heading towards Chumphon. A witness shared a video showing the distressed woman attempting to open the truck’s door and escape while the vehicle was still moving at high speed. Despite her efforts, she was unable to jump out, and the truck continued on its way. The witness who posted the video identified the vehicle as a black, four-door Ford pickup with license plate from Udon Thani.” . Emergency services, including rescue vehicles, have been following the suspect’s route but were unable to catch up. At one point, the foreign man allegedly brandished a firearm to threaten the pursuing rescuers. Witnesses noted that the truck turned back towards Lang Suan District at high speed, further complicating the search. Police in Chumphon are now coordinating efforts to locate the vehicle and ensure the safety of the woman and children inside. Authorities are appealing for public cooperation and urge anyone with information about the vehicle’s whereabouts to come forward. -- 2025-01-17

Update on this story below:

Luxury Watches Worth Over 100 Million Baht Stolen in Chinese Home Burglary Near Pattaya Picture courtesy of SiamChon. A daring burglary took place during the evening of January 15, when a thief broke into a residence in the Huai Yai area of Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province, and looted high-end watches worth over 100 million baht from a safe. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349054-luxury-watches-worth-over-100-million-baht-stolen-in-chinese-home-burglary-near-pattaya/

Picture courtesy of SiamChon. A daring burglary took place during the evening of January 15, when a thief broke into a residence in the Huai Yai area of Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province, and looted high-end watches worth over 100 million baht from a safe. The crime came to light at approximately 01:30 when Pol. Lt. Navin Sunthuanik, Deputy Inspector of Huai Yai Police Station, received a report of a burglary in a village in Moo 11, Huai Yai Subdistrict. Officers and forensic experts were dispatched to the scene immediately. Upon arrival, investigators examined the two-storey house, valued at an estimated 8 million baht, situated on an 80-square-wah plot. In a second-floor room, they found a black safe, 1.5 meters high and 1 meter wide, forcibly opened with a sledgehammer and a crowbar. The back panel of the safe was severely damaged. Wooden watch boxes capable of holding up to 10 watches each were found scattered across the room, but no watches remained. Further inspection revealed that a rear window of the house had been forced open, presumably the point of entry for the intruder. Forensic experts collected fingerprints and other evidence from the scene to aid in identifying the suspect. The house’s caretaker, Mr. Youchao Cho, 43, a Chinese national, provided a statement to police in a distressed state. Mr. Cho explained that he was looking after the property on behalf of his friend, Mr. Wang Liang Chen, 39, a Chinese businessman and owner of the house, who is currently in China dealing with legal issues. Mr. Chen operates a tourism company in Thailand but has been unable to return to the country. Mr. Cho revealed that he and his family had left the house between 15:00 and 21:00 on January 15 to run errands. Upon their return, they discovered the burglary. The rear window had been pried open, and the safe was damaged. While Mr. Cho was unaware of the safe’s contents, initial information from Mr. Chen confirmed that the safe contained luxury watches from prestigious brands, valued at over 100 million baht. The thief took all the watches, leaving only the empty boxes. Mr. Somboon 56, a business partner of Mr. Chen, corroborated the caretaker’s statement. He added that the property’s value and its contents underscored the severity of the crime. Police investigators, led by Pol. Col. Chatree Suksiri, Deputy Commander of Chonburi Provincial Police, revisited the crime scene on the afternoon of January 16, for further examination. CCTV footage from the house is being reviewed to identify potential suspects. Mr. Cho has been brought in for further questioning, while authorities are in contact with Mr. Chen to verify the total value of the stolen items. A security guard for the village informed reporters that the area is predominantly owned by Chinese nationals, with properties ranging in value from 7 million baht for single-storey homes to over 10 million baht for two-storey houses with swimming pools. He speculated that the thief might have entered the property by climbing the rear fence, which backs onto a forested area. Police continue to gather evidence to track down the perpetrator. -- 2025-01-17

Thief Electrocuted While Attempting to Steal Power Cables in Samut Prakan A man attempting to steal electrical cables from a streetlight on the Theparat Road (Bang Na-Trat) express lane was electrocuted and died at the scene early on 16 January. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349052-thief-electrocuted-while-attempting-to-steal-power-cables-in-samut-prakan/

Picture from responders. A man attempting to steal electrical cables from a streetlight on the Theparat Road (Bang Na-Trat) express lane was electrocuted and died at the scene early on 16 January. At 07:00, Lieutenant Traikhun Norrarat, Deputy Inspector at Bang Kaew Police Station, was informed of an electrocution incident near kilometre marker 15 on the inbound express lane of Theparat Road, behind a highway department booth. Rescue workers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation accompanied police officers to the scene. The victim, a man estimated to be around 40 years old, was found lying on his back behind a barrier. Both of his hands were gripping electrical wires and conduit pipes tightly. His right hand bore severe burns consistent with electrocution. No identification documents were found on the body, but a shoulder bag was recovered containing wire cutters and a cable stripping knife. Upon inspecting the area, authorities discovered that electrical wires had been cut and partially removed from a streetlight’s conduit pipe. Ms. Thongdee Janhom, 58, a highway department official in Samut Prakan, reported seeing the man wandering around kilometre markers 12-13 the previous day. She described him as a vagrant carrying a small bag. She recognised him as someone she had previously asked to leave the department’s premises at kilometre 22, where signs of burnt electrical cables suggested attempts to extract copper for resale. Ms. Thongdee had earlier expressed concerns about fire hazards caused by burning cables to extract the copper, which prompted her to prevent him from staying in the area. Police suspect that the man had returned to steal streetlight cables when he was electrocuted and killed instantly. The body was sent to Ramathibodi Chakri Naruebodindra Hospital for a post-mortem examination. Further investigations are ongoing to confirm the identity of the deceased and the circumstances surrounding the incident. -- 2025-01-17

Unidentified Man Found Dead After Falling Into Deep Pit in Cassava Field Authorities in Tak Province, are investigating the death of an unidentified man whose body was discovered at the bottom of a deep pit in a cassava plantation. The grim discovery was made on 16 January in Moo 13, Chong Khab Subdistrict, Phop Phra District. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349051-unidentified-man-found-dead-after-falling-into-deep-pit-in-cassava-field/

Picture from responders. Authorities in Tak Province, are investigating the death of an unidentified man whose body was discovered at the bottom of a deep pit in a cassava plantation. The grim discovery was made on 16 January in Moo 13, Chong Khab Subdistrict, Phop Phra District. Police Colonel Chatchai Kamying, Superintendent of Phop Phra Police Station, received the report from the local police operations centre. Upon arrival at the scene, officers were joined by emergency response teams from the Payap Rescue Unit to assess the situation. The body was found at the bottom of a six-metre-deep pit and was dressed in a green long-sleeve shirt and a navy-blue checkered sarong, lying face down. Signs of advanced decomposition and a foul smell suggested the body had been there for several days. No signs of a struggle were observed in the surrounding area. Officials believe the man accidentally fell into the pit, which is located at the rear of the cassava field. The victim is suspected to be a migrant agricultural worker from the area, though his identity remains unknown. Rescue workers, equipped with full PPE for safety, due to the poor condition of the decomposed body, devised a plan to retrieve the body. Two members of the rescue team used a rope rescue system to descend into the pit, wrapping the body in plastic sheeting and securing it to a spine board. The body was then carefully hoisted to the surface. Local authorities have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances of the incident and to identify the deceased. Police have appealed to the public for any information regarding the man’s identity. -- 2025-01-17

Man Goes on Rampage, Shoots Neighbour's Home Before Taking His Own Life Police in Pathum Thani, Thailand, were called an incident, late on 15 January when a man fired multiple shots into a neighbour's home before returning to his rented house and taking his own life. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349050-man-goes-on-rampage-shoots-neighbours-home-before-taking-his-own-life/

Picture from responders. Police in Pathum Thani, Thailand, were called an incident, late on 15 January when a man fired multiple shots into a neighbour's home before returning to his rented house and taking his own life. The incident occurred in a residential area in Bueng Yitho, Thanyaburi district. Pol. Lt. Yossawat Srilapat, investigating officer at Thanyaburi Police Station, responded to the call along with forensic specialists, local police, and rescue volunteers. At the scene, authorities found bullet casings and rounds from a 9mm firearm. Inside the home, identified as 89/186, the downstairs door was damaged, and bullet holes were discovered in the bedroom door, wardrobe, and refrigerator on the second floor. The shooter, Mr. Surachai, 45, was found dead in the bedroom of his own house, next door at 89/185. He had died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the temple. A Glock 9mm handgun was recovered between his legs. Ms. Kannika, 34, a neighbour whose home was targeted, recounted the terrifying ordeal. She explained that Mr. Surachai had recently moved into the rented house next door. On the night of the incident, he forced his way into her home by breaking the downstairs door. Ms. Kannika, her husband, and their son were at home. After hearing the commotion, Ms. Kannika barricaded her family inside a bedroom, using a refrigerator and wardrobe to block the door. Mr. Surachai fired four shots through the bedroom door but did not gain entry. Ms. Kannika called the landlord for help, who reported that the shooter returned to his home. Shortly after, a single gunshot was heard, and the area fell silent. According to the landlord, Ms. Thongtan, 54, Mr. Surachai had moved into the property on 11 January. He told her he was under severe emotional distress after separating from his partner. Although initially polite, he appeared increasingly troubled in recent days, expressing feelings of guilt and regret. Ms. Thongtan noted that Mr. Surachai had apologised to Ms. Kannika earlier that week, promising to buy a gift basket as an apology for noise complaints. Pol. Lt. Yossawat confirmed that forensic officers collected evidence, including bullet casings and the firearm, to aid in their investigation. Mr. Surachai's body has been sent to Thammasat University Hospital for an autopsy. Police will contact Mr. Surachai's relatives for further questioning and funeral arrangements. The case remains under investigation to determine the exact motivations behind the series of events. -- 2025-01-17

Drama at Khon Kaen City Hall: Market Vendor Brandishes Knife, Claims Unfair Treatment A tense situation unfolded at Khon Kaen City Hall on January 16 when a local market vendor armed with a knife staged a dramatic protest, alleging mistreatment by local politicians. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349048-drama-at-khon-kaen-city-hall-market-vendor-brandishes-knife-claims-unfair-treatment/

Picture from responders. A tense situation unfolded at Khon Kaen City Hall on January 16 when a local market vendor armed with a knife staged a dramatic protest, alleging mistreatment by local politicians. The incident occurred at around noon on the fourth floor of the old provincial hall. The woman, whose identity has not been disclosed, demanded to meet Khon Kaen Governor Kraisorn Kongchalard to address grievances regarding her business at a local market in Si Chomphu District. She claimed that new competition from a rival market, allegedly authorised by local politicians, had caused her customer base to shrink. Deputy Governor Yuttaporn Pirunsarn and Pol. Col. Yosawat Kaewsuebthannit, Superintendent of Khon Kaen City Police, spent over 30 minutes negotiating with the visibly distressed vendor. After lengthy persuasion, the woman eventually calmed down and relinquished the knife. Medical responders treated minor cuts on her left wrist before she was escorted to Khon Kaen Hospital for further care. Officers from the Damrongdhama Centre were also present to provide emotional support and address her complaints. Governor Kraisorn later addressed the media, stating that the woman had made multiple complaints about her declining business at a local market, allegedly due to the opening of a new market nearby. She claimed that her initial complaints to district authorities had gone unresolved and that she faced additional harassment, including accusations that her pets had been poisoned. Adding to the drama, bloodstains were found on her clothing. However, a subsequent examination revealed no injuries on that part of her body. Instead, officials discovered a bag of animal blood hidden in her bra, which she appeared to have used to smear on her clothes. Governor Kraisorn expressed sympathy for the woman’s plight, noting her actions likely stemmed from deep frustration. He has instructed the Deputy Governor to investigate her claims thoroughly. “Given her decision to come to the provincial hall, this issue seems to have caused her significant distress. We will look into the matter to determine the facts,” he said. The incident concluded without further escalation, and local authorities are now investigating her allegations to resolve the dispute. -- 2025-01-17

Electric Authority Vehicle Overturns on Sharp Bend, 1 Dead and Several Injured An incident occurred on the morning of January 16, at 09:00 in Nan province, when a vehicle belonging to the local electric authority lost control and overturned on a notorious sharp bend, known locally as “Paap Phaa Curve,” along Highway 1081. The incident took place at kilometre 63 on the Bo Kluea – Santisuk route, in Bo Kluea Tai subdistrict, Bo Kluea district. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349047-electric-authority-vehicle-overturns-on-sharp-bend-1-dead-and-several-injured/

Pictures from responders. An incident occurred on the morning of January 16, at 09:00 in Nan province, when a vehicle belonging to the local electric authority lost control and overturned on a notorious sharp bend, known locally as “Paap Phaa Curve,” along Highway 1081. The incident took place at kilometre 63 on the Bo Kluea – Santisuk route, in Bo Kluea Tai subdistrict, Bo Kluea district. District Chief Seree Kanroj assigned Chanathip Prommee, Deputy District Chief for Security, along with a unit from the Bo Kluea Volunteer Defence Corps (Unit 12), to provide immediate assistance at the scene. Initial reports indicate that the crash resulted in six injured individuals, all identified as employees of the Nan Electric Authority. Among them, five sustained severe injuries, while one person tragically lost their life. The injured were transported to Bo Kluea Hospital for emergency treatment. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the single vehicle incident Initial investigation suggests that the vehicle driver lost control travelling down the hill, struck a concrete barrier on the curve and then veered across and off the road into some trees. Some of the staff who were travelling in the back of the were thrown off as the vehicle rolled over ending on its side and coming to a violent stop. -- 2025-01-17

Desperate Mother Steals Gold to Repay Predatory Loan App A young mother in financial distress has confessed to stealing gold from a shop in Ayutthaya, claiming she acted out of desperation due to harassment and threats from a predatory loan app. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349046-desperate-mother-steals-gold-to-repay-predatory-loan-app/

Picture captured from CCTV. A young mother in financial distress has confessed to stealing gold from a shop in Ayutthaya, claiming she acted out of desperation due to harassment and threats from a predatory loan app. The incident occurred at a gold shop in Hua Ro Subdistrict, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya District. The suspect, a 27-year-old woman named Ms. Suwichada from Phetchabun Province, entered the shop on 12 January, pretending to be a customer. She asked the staff to display a tray of gold jewellery. While the staff were distracted, she discreetly hid a gold bracelet worth 22,600 baht in her hand and then excused herself, claiming she needed to withdraw cash. She subsequently fled the scene. Later that evening, the shop staff noticed the missing bracelet during an inventory check. Upon reviewing CCTV footage, they identified the woman as the culprit and reported the theft to the police. Police investigators, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Monchai Lueangprasert of Ayutthaya Police Station, reviewed the CCTV footage and identified the suspect. A warrant was issued for her arrest on charges of theft using a vehicle. On 15 January, officers apprehended Ms. Suwichada in Bangkok’s Bang Sue District while she was riding her motorbike. During interrogation, Ms. Suwichada confessed, detailing her struggles as a new mother of a four-month-old baby. She explained that her income as a motorcycle taxi driver, facilitated by a ride-hailing app, was insufficient to cover her living expenses. In her desperation, she borrowed 7,000 baht through an online loan app, unaware that it required weekly repayments. The app charged her 4,000 baht in interest, leaving her unable to keep up with the payments. Ms. Suwichada revealed that she had been harassed and threatened by the loan providers, who warned they would visit her home if she failed to repay the loan. The fear of harm to herself and her baby pushed her to commit the crime. On the day of the theft, she had transported a customer from Bangkok to Rangsit and then another to Ayutthaya. While on the road, she received a threatening call from the loan app’s agents, which added to her mounting pressure and led to her rash decision to steal. After stealing the bracelet, Ms. Suwichada sold it at a shopping mall in Bangkok for just over 10,000 baht. She immediately transferred most of the money to the loan app and used the remaining amount to buy milk for her baby. She then returned to her routine until her arrest. Ms. Suwichada now faces legal action for her crime, but her story highlights the predatory practices of loan apps that exploit individuals in vulnerable situations. Authorities are expected to investigate the app in question, alongside prosecuting the suspect. -- 2025-01-17

UPDATE Police Officer Faces Murder Charge After Girlfriend Dies Following Car Dispute An incident in Ranong that led to the death of a young woman, and now a police officer is facing a charge of intentional murder after she jumped out of his moving vehicle during a heated argument. The victim, 24-year-old Ms. Thanyathorn, died after falling from the pickup truck on the night of 15 January 2025. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1349045-thai-police-officer-faces-murder-charge-after-girlfriend-dies-following-car-dispute/

Picture from responders. An incident in Ranong that led to the death of a young woman, and now a police officer is facing a charge of intentional murder after she jumped out of his moving vehicle during a heated argument. The victim, 24-year-old Ms. Thanyathorn, died after falling from the pickup truck on the night of 15 January 2025. The incident occurred at around 01:30 when officers from the Ranong Police Station were alerted to a fatal accident on the road along Khlong Had Sompaen, in Bang Rin Subdistrict, Mueang Ranong District. Upon arrival, investigators discovered the lifeless body of Ms. Thanyathorn on the street. The driver of the vehicle, identified now as Sergeant Major Kittaphum 24, initially claimed the incident was a result of an argument between him and his girlfriend, which escalated due to jealousy. He stated that after the dispute, Ms. Thanyathorn opened the rear door of the truck and jumped out, tragically falling onto the road and dying from the impact. The police initially charged Sergeant Kittaphum with “reckless driving causing death.” However, further investigation, including analysis of surveillance camera footage, revealed new details that led to more serious charges. On 16 January, police officials announced they would be pressing an additional charge of murder, against Sergeant Kittaphum. The investigation showed that, despite the victim’s apparent attempt to exit the vehicle, the officer had driven at a speed that increased the likelihood of fatal injury should she fall out. Surveillance footage from three key locations painted a clearer picture of the events leading to the tragedy. At the first location, near the “Prakpa” junction, Ms. Thanyathorn was seen exiting the truck. Sergeant Kittaphum, who had followed her, appeared to force her back into the vehicle, where she took a seat behind the driver. At this point, the truck had slowed down, and the rear door remained open. The second key moment occurred as the vehicle turned onto the Khlong Had Sompaen road, moving slowly but with the rear door still ajar. Ms. Thanyathorn was visibly reluctant to re-enter the vehicle, trying to leave again as the truck proceeded down the road. The third and final location, near the Ranong District Office, saw the truck accelerate. It was here that Ms. Thanyathorn jumped out, rolling along the road and sustaining fatal injuries. The police surmised that the officer must have been aware that the speed at which the truck was travelling would result in serious harm or death if the victim exited the vehicle. In addition to the murder charge, Sergeant Kittaphum has been found to have been under the influence of illegal drugs at the time of the incident. Despite initially passing an alcohol test with zero blood alcohol content, further tests revealed that he had used amphetamines. He had not urinated the entire day until the morning of 16 January, when a urine test confirmed the presence of the drug. The officer’s family, who travelled from Chumphon to offer their statements, claimed that the death was a mere accident, based on their son’s phone call informing them of the incident. However, the evidence has led police to treat the case as more than just a tragic mishap. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the case, with plans to press further charges if additional evidence emerges. Police Colonel Thawatchai Sunjaroen, the Ranong Police Chief, assured the public that the investigation would be thorough and fair, with both criminal and disciplinary proceedings to be pursued against Sergeant Kittaphum. The tragic death has raised concerns over domestic violence and the responsibilities of law enforcement officers. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to upholding justice, regardless of the offender’s status, and ensuring that any person found guilty of such actions is held accountable to the full extent of the law. Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1348858-woman-dies jumping-from-moving-vehicle-following-argument-with-police-officer-boyfriend/ -- 2025-01-17