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UPDATE Australian Tourist Dies After Fall from Patong Hotel – Alcohol Suspected Picture courtesy of MGR. An Australian tourist fell to his death from the third floor of a hotel in central Patong in the early hours of the morning of 1 May, with police suspecting intoxication as a contributing factor. The incident occurred at a hotel located on Rat-U-Thit 200 Pi Road, near the intersection with Thaweewong Road in Patong subdistrict, Kathu district. Lieutenant Wisanu Choomi, Deputy Investigator at Patong Police Station, was alerted to the fall and responded to the scene along with forensic officers and rescue workers from the Kusoldharm Foundation. The victim, later identified as Mr. Collins Sean Christopher, 59, of Australian nationality, was found lying face down on a lower-level terrace known as “B Floor” of the hotel. He was shirtless and wearing only black shorts, and was barely breathing when rescue workers arrived. Despite efforts to revive him with CPR, he was pronounced dead after being rushed to Patong Hospital. Initial investigations revealed that Mr. Collins and his wife had checked into the hotel on 29 April and were scheduled to check out on 2 May. On the night of the incident, the couple had been out drinking in Patong. They returned to the hotel at approximately 01:00, passing through the reception area. Just five minutes later, staff heard a loud noise resembling someone falling. Mr. Collins was found unresponsive on the B Floor. His wife, who was nearby, confirmed that her husband had been walking ahead of her up to their room on the third floor. As he ascended past the second floor, she remained on the first floor and witnessed him staggering before falling backward over a ledge to the level below. Police are continuing their investigation to determine the precise circumstances surrounding the fall. Forensic examinations are underway, and authorities will be coordinating with the Australian Embassy in Bangkok to inform Mr. Collins’ family and proceed with legal and repatriation processes. Adapted by Asean Now from MGR 2025-05-01.

UPDATE Investigation Launched into Blood Transfusion Controversy Following Fatal Bridge Incident - Governor Orders Urgent Safety Checks on All Bridges in Province Picture courtesy of Matichon. Authorities in Samut Sakhon are investigating two major aspects surrounding the death of 46-year-old Mr. Amnat Thongkham, who was fatally injured on 29 April after a large chunk of concrete fell from an aged overpass onto his vehicle on Rama II Road. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359175-another-rama-ii-incident-driver-injured-as-large-concrete-slab-falls-onto-pickup-truck/#findComment-19772517

UPDATE Investigation Launched into Blood Transfusion Controversy Following Fatal Bridge Incident - Governor Orders Urgent Safety Checks on All Bridges in Province Picture courtesy of Matichon. Authorities in Samut Sakhon are investigating two major aspects surrounding the death of 46-year-old Mr. Amnat Thongkham, who was fatally injured on 29 April after a large chunk of concrete fell from an aged overpass onto his vehicle on Rama II Road. The incident occurred at near kilometre marker 27+500, on the outbound lanes of Rama II Road in Mueang District. The debris reportedly came loose from the underside of a decades-old flyover connecting Krathum Baen to central Mahachai and crashed through the windscreen of Mr. Amnat’s pickup truck, ultimately leading to his death. Compounding the incident, a secondary controversy has emerged regarding the initial medical response. Questions have been raised over whether Mr. Amnat may have received an incorrect blood transfusion at the first hospital he was taken to, Vibhavadi Hospital, Samut Sakhon, which may have complicated his treatment. Dr. Prakit Sarathep, Chief of the Samut Sakhon Provincial Public Health Office, confirmed that his team is conducting a formal investigation into the matter. “We are reviewing medical procedures and compliance with the standards set by the Hospital Act, particularly concerning the provision of emergency care and transfusion protocols. We ask the public to allow time for a thorough investigation and will report conclusive findings in due course,” he said. Meanwhile, at around 09:30:on 1 May, the provincial governor, Mr. Narit Niramaiwong, visited the scene of the incident alongside officials from the Highways Department. The point where the concrete gave way is located on a curve just before the descent of the flyover. The structure, built nearly 40 years ago, had suffered wear over time, exacerbated by heavy traffic, vibrations, and overloaded vehicles. Following the incident, repair crews promptly carried out emergency maintenance to stabilise the area. However, Governor Narit announced that a comprehensive safety audit is now underway. In line with directives from the Ministry of Transport, all 17,500 bridges under the Department of Highways’ jurisdiction, including 209 structures along Rama II Road, are to be immediately inspected. Any found to be below safety standards must be repaired without delay. “The Department of Highways has already assigned engineers and high-precision equipment to assess the structural integrity of this flyover thoroughly,” Governor Narit stated. “We must ensure the safety of all bridges, flyovers, U-turn bridges, and pedestrian overpasses, especially those that have been in use for many years.” The governor has also instructed that local highway offices accelerate inspections and provide regular updates. He affirmed that this initiative aligns with the provincial security and public safety committee’s objectives, which emphasise proactive maintenance and risk prevention. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-01.

Foreign Man Dies After Falling from Third-Floor Staircase in Patong Picture courtesy of Matichon. Emergency rescue workers rushed to the scene early morning on 1 May, after a foreign man fell from a third-floor staircase in Patong, Kathu district, Phuket. Despite attempts to save his life, the man was later pronounced dead at the hospital. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359408-foreign-man-dies-after-falling-from-third-floor-staircase-in-patong/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Emergency rescue workers rushed to the scene early morning on 1 May, after a foreign man fell from a third-floor staircase in Patong, Kathu district, Phuket. Despite attempts to save his life, the man was later pronounced dead at the hospital. The incident occurred at approximately 01:00 on Ratcha Uthit 200 Pi Road. The Kusoldharm Patong Rescue Foundation received a call reporting that an unidentified foreign national had fallen from a staircase inside a building. Rescue volunteers arrived promptly and found the man lying face-down in a pool of blood, unresponsive and without vital signs. CPR was immediately administered while support was requested from the Patong Hospital’s emergency medical team, including an advanced life support unit. The patient was swiftly transported to Patong Hospital, where medical staff made further efforts to resuscitate him. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The man’s identity and nationality had not yet been confirmed. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fall. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-01.

Brother Weeps Over Bodies of Mother and Young Sibling After Lorry Crash Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A devastating crash in Chonburi province has claimed the lives of a mother and her six-year-old son, leaving a heart-wrenching scene as an older brother was seen embracing their lifeless bodies in tears. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359399-brother-weeps-over-bodies-of-mother-and-young-sibling-after-lorry-crash/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A devastating crash in Chonburi province has claimed the lives of a mother and her six-year-old son, leaving a heart-wrenching scene as an older brother was seen embracing their lifeless bodies in tears. The fatal collision occurred in the early hours of the morning if 1 May, on Route 344 in the Nong Yai district, near the Ban Bueng-Samang U-turn in Khao Sok sub-district. CCTV footage captured the tragic moment a six-wheel lorry driver, carrying a family of four lost control and slammed into the back of a parked truck on the roadside. Emergency services from Nong Yai Police Station and the Sillatham Rescue Foundation rushed to the scene at around 04:00. They discovered the lorry, bearing Bangkok registration plates, with its front cabin completely crushed. Inside were four injured individuals, two adults and two children. Rescue workers used cutting equipment to free the unconscious victims from the wreckage. Despite desperate CPR efforts, two passengers were pronounced dead at the scene: 27-year-old Ms. Ploywarin Noenklang, the children’s mother, and young Thanawat Saothong, aged just six. The surviving father and another young boy sustained injuries but were conscious and transported to Nong Yai Hospital for treatment. The truck involved, registered in Uthai Thani, had been stationary in a designated rest parking area along the roadside. Preliminary investigations suggest the lorry driver may have fallen asleep at the wheel while travelling from Klaeng district, causing the vehicle to veer off and crash violently into the parked truck. Police are awaiting the recovery of the injured driver before proceeding with a full investigation into the circumstances of the crash. Legal proceedings are expected to follow as authorities determine responsibility for the crash. This latest incident adds to growing concerns about road safety and driver fatigue on the highways. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-01.

Two Autistic Children Rescued After Crawling Hundreds of Metres Through Drainpipe Two autistic children were dramatically rescued from a storm drain in Chonburi province after they crawled inside from near their home and became trapped, prompting a desperate search by emergency services. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359379-two-autistic-children-rescued-after-crawling-hundreds-of-metres-through-drainpipe/

Pictures from responders. Two autistic children were dramatically rescued from a storm drain in Chonburi province after they crawled inside from near their home and became trapped, prompting a desperate search by emergency services. The incident occurred on the afternoon of 30 April in the Plutaluang subdistrict of Sattahip. At approximately 16:50, Mr. Amata Kraikruan, Mayor of the Plutaluang Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, received an urgent report from local residents that two children were stuck inside a storm drain beneath a road near the entrance to Navy House Village 46, Moo 5. Emergency response teams, including local disaster prevention officers and volunteers from the Sawang Rojanatham Foundation, were quickly dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, they heard cries for help coming from beneath a metal grate in the middle of the road. The distressed voices of a young girl and boy could be clearly heard. Initial efforts to pry open the grate with crowbars were unsuccessful, forcing rescuers to use a grinder to cut through the metal before lowering a ladder into the drain to safely retrieve the children. According to authorities, the children, both of whom are autistic, are believed to have entered the drainage system from beside their home, likely out of curiosity. They then crawled through the narrow tunnel for several hundred metres and became disoriented, unable to find their way out. The pair were discovered nearly 500 metres from their starting point. Fortunately, their cries for help were heard by a nearby resident, who followed the sound and alerted the authorities. Both children were safely rescued without serious injury. Officials have urged parents and guardians to keep a close watch on children with special needs to prevent similar incidents in the future. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-01.

Failing to Yield to Emergency Vehicles Could Lead to Severe Penalties File picture courtesy of Amarin, for reference only. Motorists in Thailand are being warned that failing to give way to emergency vehicles could result in serious legal consequences, including the possibility of being charged with manslaughter or intentional homicide. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359375-failing-to-yield-to-emergency-vehicles-could-lead-to-severe-penalties/

File picture courtesy of Amarin, for reference only. Motorists in Thailand are being warned that failing to give way to emergency vehicles could result in serious legal consequences, including the possibility of being charged with manslaughter or intentional homicide. Under the Land Traffic Act B.E. 2522 (1979), Sections 76 and 148, drivers are legally obligated to move aside for emergency vehicles that are using flashing lights or sounding sirens. These include ambulances, rescue vehicles, fire engines, police vehicles, military convoys, and any other officially authorised vehicles fitted with emergency lighting. Failure to comply with this law carries an initial penalty of a fine not exceeding 500 baht. However, if a driver’s obstruction directly results in the death of a patient or individual being transported by the emergency vehicle, more serious charges may follow. According to legal experts, if such negligence is deemed the direct cause of a fatality, the driver could be prosecuted for causing death through recklessness or even with intent, depending on the circumstances of the incident. Such charges can result in lengthy prison sentences. This issue has become increasingly topical following a number of high-profile cases, including a recent incident in which a taxi driver deliberately blocked an ambulance, leading to the death of a patient on board. The deceased’s daughter later expressed her heartbreak, stating that her father “might still be alive if the driver had moved.” Emergency responders have also reported growing frustration at aggressive or uncooperative drivers during rescue operations. Authorities are now reminding the public that in any situation involving an approaching emergency vehicle, motorists must pull over to the side of the road to allow safe passage. Pedestrians must move away from the edge of the road, while those handling animals must also steer them away from the roadway. Crucially, all road users are instructed not to block intersections or junctions when an emergency vehicle is attempting to pass. Officials stress that every second counts in an emergency and that failing to cooperate could cost lives and lead to serious legal consequences. A delayed ambulance offers lower care than a hospital because ambulances are designed primarily for emergency stabilisation and rapid transport, not for extended or definitive treatment. While advanced ambulances can provide life-saving interventions such as CPR, defibrillation, oxygen, and basic medications, they lack the full diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities of a hospital. Hospitals have access to specialised equipment, labs, imaging tools and a full teams of specialists. Therefore, when an ambulance is delayed, a cardiac patient is deprived of the comprehensive care available at the hospital, increasing the risk of complications or death. Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359145-taxi-driver-blocks-ambulance-leading-to-patient’s-death-in-patong/ Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-01.

Driver Crashes Water Truck into Power Pole to Avoid Major Collision in Pattaya Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A dramatic incident unfolded in Pattaya when a water truck suffered brake failure and veered off course, crashing into a electric pole. The quick-thinking driver is beingpraised for his decisive action, which likely prevented a much more serious accident. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359373-driver-crashes-water-truck-into-power-pole-to-avoid-major-collision-in-pattaya/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A dramatic incident unfolded in Pattaya when a water truck suffered brake failure and veered off course, crashing into a electric pole. The quick-thinking driver is being praised for his decisive action, which likely prevented a much more serious accident. The crash occurred at approximately 14:55 on 30 April, near the entrance of Sukhumvit Soi 89, also known as Soi Thung Klom Tan Man. Rescue units from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation responded promptly to the emergency call and rushed to the scene. Emergency responders found a blue Isuzu six-wheel truck, fitted with a water tank, with its front severely crumpled after crashing into the power pole. The driver, identified as 35-year-old Mr Thanaphon Jermchim, sustained only minor injuries and was able to speak with police at the scene. The impact also damaged a roadside direction sign, a CCTV pole, and a traffic control cabinet. Traffic police worked to ease congestion in the area, which saw a build-up of vehicles during the busy afternoon period. Mr Thanaphon told police that he had just delivered water and was leaving Soi Sukhumvit 89 when the vehicle’s brakes suddenly failed. Seeing multiple cars ahead and realising a potentially fatal collision was imminent, he made the split-second decision to steer the truck into the power pole to protect other road users. “If I hadn’t swerved, I would’ve crashed into the main road traffic,” he said. “Someone could have been seriously hurt.” Officers documented the scene and will examine CCTV footage as part of their investigation into the cause of the crash. Authorities commended the driver’s presence of mind, which may have prevented a major tragedy. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-01.

Red Dust Smuggling Ring Busted: Senior Officials Implicated in Toxic Imports Picture courtesy of Matichon. Industry Minister, Mr. Ekkanat Promphan, has revealed a major crackdown on an illegal network smuggling “red dust”, a hazardous industrial waste product, into Thailand. The operation has exposed financial irregularities, forged government documents, and alleged collusion by state officials. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359371-red-dust-smuggling-ring-busted-senior-officials-implicated-in-toxic-imports/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Industry Minister, Mr. Ekkanat Promphan, has revealed a major crackdown on an illegal network smuggling “red dust”, a hazardous industrial waste product, into Thailand. The operation has exposed financial irregularities, forged government documents, and alleged collusion by state officials. Red dust is a highly alkaline industrial byproduct commonly generated during the processing of bauxite into alumina (used in aluminium production), or from smelting and recycling metals such as steel. It can contain heavy metals and toxic elements, making its disposal subject to strict regulations. Improper handling or illegal dumping of red dust poses serious risks to human health and the environment, including soil contamination and groundwater pollution. For this reason, its import, transport, and storage are closely monitored. The sting, codenamed “Final Mile Operation,” was led by Ms. Thitipas Chotidetchaichanan, head of the Minister’s special task force, alongside the Department of Industrial Works, Samut Sakhon Provincial Industry Office, and the Environmental Crime Division of the police. Armed with a warrant from the Samut Sakhon Provincial Court, the task force raided Hua Chong Industrial Co., Ltd., located in Krathum Baen district. The company is allegedly linked to a larger scheme involving the illegal importation of red dust from abroad. The investigation traces the origin of the red dust back to Xin Ke Yuan Steel Co., Ltd., which reportedly sold the material to Hua Chong Industrial. Digital forensics from the company’s accounting system showed that payments were inflated by over 111 million baht, raising suspicions of money laundering and wider financial misconduct. Moreover, links were uncovered to KMC 1953 Co., Ltd. in Pathum Thani, a company previously charged with smuggling red dust into the country. Forged official documents were allegedly used to facilitate over 10,000 tonnes of imports between August 2024 and early 2025. As of now, 7,000 tonnes of red dust and 200 tonnes of other suspect hazardous materials have been seized and sent for examination by the Department of Industrial Works. Legal proceedings have been initiated against Hua Chong Industrial Co., Ltd. and its director, Mr. Yihan Wang, for possession of hazardous substances and unlawful importation of dangerous materials. Crucially, Minister Ekkanat confirmed that an internal investigation revealed the involvement of certain civil servants who facilitated the import through improper documentation. These individuals face disciplinary action and possible criminal charges. Ms. Thitipas emphasised the scale of the operation, stating: “This is a well-organised syndicate that operated despite previous penalties and shutdowns. Their disregard for environmental and legal consequences. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-01.

Two Men Arrested After Gun Attack on Tattoo Shop in Yasothon Picture courtesy of Matichon. Two men have been arrested following a gun attack on a tattoo parlour in central Yasothon, reportedly sparked by a dispute over a woman and a revved engine. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359370-two-men-arrested-after-gun-attack-on-tattoo-shop-in-yasothon/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Two men have been arrested following a gun attack on a tattoo parlour in central Yasothon, reportedly sparked by a dispute over a woman and a revved engine. Pol. Col. Phumi Thongpho, Chief of the Yasothon Provincial Police Investigation Division, confirmed the arrest of 30-year-old Apisit, known by the alias “Hulob,” under a warrant issued by the Yasothon Provincial Court on 29 April. He faces multiple charges including attempted murder, illegal possession of a firearm, unlawful carrying of a weapon in public, and causing property damage through reckless gunfire. The arrest took place on 29 April at a rented house in Moo 2, Na Wa Subdistrict, Pathum Ratchawongsa District of Amnat Charoen Province, with the cooperation of local police forces. The incident dates back to 28 April at approximately 02:00 when a group of nine men led by Kritsaranai, also known as “Joke,” were leaving a local night club venue in Yasothon city. Around 04:0, while Joke’s group was at a tattoo shop on Ha Thunwa Road, a white Isuzu four-door pickup truck pulled up outside. Moments later, gunfire erupted, with several bullets striking the shop. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported. Police tracked down Apisit, who was found with a .38 calibre Smith & Wesson revolver, 30 rounds of ammunition, a spent cartridge, the white Isuzu pickup truck believed to have been used in the attack, and clothing worn during the incident. He confessed to driving the vehicle and transporting his associate to carry out the shooting, claiming it was in retaliation for provocative revving of an engine by the tattoo shop group earlier that night, both when leaving the bar and again later at a restaurant. 40-year-old Adirek, also known as “Tong,” was also arrested under a separate warrant. He faces similar charges but has only admitted to storing the firearm used in the shooting. He denies taking part in the actual attack. Pol. Col. Saranpong Jaksukorn, Deputy Chief of Yasothon City Police Station, confirmed that two suspects have been arrested so far, while a third, believed to be the gunman, remains at large. Officers are actively pursuing his whereabouts. Initial investigations suggest two firearms may have been used, as more than ten spent cartridges were recovered from the scene. The motive appears to stem from tensions inside the nightclub, where individuals from the tattoo shop allegedly attempted to flirt with the girlfriend of one of the accused. The situation escalated due to perceived mocking looks and aggressive revving of engines, culminating in the early-morning shooting. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-01.

Anthrax Death Reported in Mukdahan Province Picture courtesy of Amarin. Authorities have confirmed the death of a resident from anthrax in the Don Tan district of Mukdahan province. The case has prompted swift action from local officials to contain the outbreak and prevent further infections. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359368-anthrax-death-reported-in-mukdahan-province/

Picture courtesy of Amarin. Authorities have confirmed the death of a resident from anthrax in the Don Tan district of Mukdahan province. The case has prompted swift action from local officials to contain the outbreak and prevent further infections. According to reports shared by the popular Thai social media page “Drama-addict”, the deceased had reportedly come into contact with cattle and consumed beef prior to falling ill. The individual, whose name has not been released, developed a fever and skin lesions and was admitted to Don Tan Hospital on 27 April. He was later transferred to Mukdahan Hospital, where he passed away. Medical tests have confirmed anthrax infection as the cause of death. Anthrax, a serious bacterial disease, can be contracted through skin contact, ingestion, or inhalation of spores, particularly in those who handle livestock or consume contaminated meat. Symptoms include fever, skin ulcers, abdominal pain, nausea, and respiratory distress. In response, Mr. Chakrit Chumchan, the district chief of Don Tan, has issued directives to local authorities, village heads, and related agencies to implement strict disease control measures and monitor for potential further cases. The public has been warned to avoid consuming meat from animals that have died without a clear cause and to immediately report such deaths to local officials for testing. The Ministry of Public Health is urging anyone who has recently handled cattle, buffaloes, goats, or sheep, or who develops suspicious symptoms, to seek medical attention immediately. Officials continue to monitor the situation closely as containment and investigation efforts proceed. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-01.

Mystery Woman’s Bloated Body Found in Chiang Rai Irrigation Canal Picture courtesy of Kaoded. The bloated body of an unidentified woman was discovered floating in an irrigationcanal in Mae Sai district, Chiang Rai province, on the morning of 30 April. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359367-mystery-woman’s-bloated-body-found-in-chiang-rai-irrigation-canal/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. The bloated body of an unidentified woman was discovered floating in an irrigation canal in Mae Sai district, Chiang Rai province, on the morning of 30 April. At around 10:00, Pol. Lt. Col. Somkiat Chaitan, an investigator from Mae Sai Police Station, received a report of a dead body spotted in the canal belonging to the Mae Sai Irrigation Project. Police investigators and a rescue team from Siam Ruamjai Mae Sai rushed to the scene. The body was found floating face-down in a mass of debris near a sluice gate. The deceased, believed to be a woman aged between 30 and 40, was wearing a short-sleeved t-shirt and shorts. Her hair and general appearance suggested she may be of Myanmar origin. Mr. Chai Khamdee, a local man who was fishing nearby, was the one who discovered the body. He reported noticing a strong stench while searching for a fishing spot and spotted what looked like a human body in the water. Upon closer inspection, he realised it was indeed a corpse and immediately notified the authorities. Mr. Chai further speculated that the woman may have been carried downstream from Myanmar following heavy rainfall, which had raised water levels in the region. Preliminary investigations by Mae Sai police, in coordination with an on-duty physician, determined that the woman had been dead for several days. The body was decomposed, with visible maggot activity on her face, making identification impossible. No identification documents were found, and there were no visible signs of injury. The body has been sent to a local hospital for a full post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death and aid in identifying the deceased. Police are continuing their investigation and are coordinating with relevant agencies to determine whether the woman had crossed the border or if foul play was involved. Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-05-01.

Free Medical Transport Programme Offers Lifeline to Bangkok’s Most Vulnerable Picture courtesy of Matichon. Access to public healthcare in Thailand is a basic right, yet for many, the simple act of visiting a doctor remains a serious challenge, primarily due to transportation difficulties. For the elderly, disabled, and economically disadvantaged, travelling to a hospital appointment can be both physically and financially overwhelming. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359366-free-medical-transport-programme-offers-lifeline-to-bangkok’s-most-vulnerable/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Access to public healthcare in Thailand is a basic right, yet for many, the simple act of visiting a doctor remains a serious challenge, primarily due to transportation difficulties. For the elderly, disabled, and economically disadvantaged, travelling to a hospital appointment can be both physically and financially overwhelming. To address this barrier, the Zendai Foundation, in collaboration with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) and the National Health Security Office (NHSO), has launched the “Safe Ride with Heart” programme. Funded by Bangkok’s Local Health Security Fund, the initiative aims to ensure that patients, regardless of their circumstances, can attend medical appointments with safety and dignity. The pilot service currently operates within Bangkok and is available to all patients, irrespective of the healthcare scheme they are under. It specifically targets three vulnerable groups: the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and those facing transport or financial hardship. Jiraporn Chawin, whose husband is bedridden due to complications from swollen kidneys, is one of many who have benefited. Previously unable to afford transport to rehabilitation sessions prescribed by doctors, she described walking 2 kilometres daily to collect food from a local temple. The turning point came when a local health centre connected her with the Zendai Foundation. “Before this, I only knew how to call the hospital. I had no idea who else to contact or what steps to take,” she recalled. Now, trained staff assist her with booking appointments via LINE, making the process quicker and more efficient. Patients need only submit their name, hospital appointment slip, contact details, and address. The foundation then arranges a suitable vehicle based on the patient’s condition. “I’m overjoyed,” said Jiraporn. “This service not only helps my family but many others who are struggling. We no longer have to wait endlessly for emergency ambulances, which often aren’t available.” From Costly Taxis to Free Door-to-Door Service Eighty-one-year-old Santisuk Bunyalert, a retired civil servant, also shared how the programme has changed his life. Previously dependent on taxis, which were both expensive and hard to find early in the morning, he now benefits from free transport directly from his home. “My son, who lives in another province, doesn’t have time to take me to the hospital. He saw the programme and had my daughter sign me up. It’s so much more convenient now,” he said. Safety is the cornerstone of the programme. All drivers, whether taxi or van, are required to undergo training not only in defensive driving but also in basic first aid and patient assessment. Supanya Thamminrach, one of the drivers, explained that they must be prepared to handle emergencies, including contacting the 1669 emergency line. “It’s not just about driving. We have to observe patients, recognise their symptoms, and know what to do before help arrives,” he explained. Supanya ensures he contacts patients a day in advance and arrives 30 minutes early to assess their home environment and introduce himself to build trust. Volunteer Sutthas Homsaat highlighted the tailored approach taken for patients with critical needs. If patients can walk, taxis are assigned. For more serious cases, such as those requiring oxygen support or residing in multi-storey homes, vans equipped with medical devices and adequate space are deployed. Sutthas, trained in emergency medicine by Khon Kaen University, recounted a recent case where a bedridden patient had to be safely moved from an upstairs bedroom using a stair-chair transporter. “This knowledge is vital. Without proper training, moving a patient like that could be dangerous,” he said. Zendai Foundation Director, Nonthawat Boonba, acknowledged that many patients miss appointments, not out of neglect, but because travel costs are unaffordable. “For bedridden patients, hiring a medical transport vehicle can cost up to 3,000 baht per trip,” he said. The foundation now aims to increase the number of transport rounds per month and expand its services to cover suburban areas. High-priority patients such as those requiring ongoing dialysis will be among the first to benefit from extended service coverage. For thousands across Bangkok, “Safe Ride with Heart” is more than just a transport service, it’s a vital link to care, hope, and human dignity. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-01.

Mother Seeks Justice After Foetus Dies Following Transfers Between Four Hospitals Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A grieving mother has turned to a Thai women’s and children’s rights foundation after losing her unborn baby following a series of hospital visits and transfers. The mother, who had been experiencing labour-like symptoms, was injected with medication to delay delivery at multiple hospitals, before being told her baby had died. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359365-mother-seeks-justice-after-foetus-dies-following-transfers-between-four-hospitals/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A grieving mother has turned to a Thai women’s and children’s rights foundation after losing her unborn baby following a series of hospital visits and transfers. The mother, who had been experiencing labour-like symptoms, was injected with medication to delay delivery at multiple hospitals, before being told her baby had died. The case came to light when the mother, known under the pseudonym “Mrs. Nid”, aged 40, travelled from Kamphaeng Phet province to the Pavena Foundation for Women and Children in Pathum Thani. She reported that she had been transferred between four hospitals before being informed that her baby had died in utero. Mrs. Nid, who was expecting her third child—a baby girl due in June—said she first sought medical help on 17 April after waking up with painful uterine contractions. She went to her district hospital, where doctors said she showed signs of premature labour. She was given two injections in the right hip and four oral pills to halt labour, spaced 30 minutes apart. Following the medication, she experienced symptoms of palpitations and profuse sweating and was kept overnight for observation. As the symptoms persisted, she was referred the next day to a second hospital, where similar treatment was administered. After two more nights in hospital, she was discharged on 20 April with a referral to a more advanced hospital in Nakhon Sawan for 23 April. While at home awaiting the appointment, she noticed that the baby’s movements had reduced. On 23 April, at the third hospital, an ultrasound revealed the devastating news: the baby had died. “The doctor said, ‘The baby has died, did you know?’ I was in shock,” Mrs. Nid told the foundation. She was then referred to a fourth hospital back in Kamphaeng Phet for delivery. Labour was induced with medication on 25 April, and the lifeless baby was born on the evening of 26 April. Mrs. Nid, deeply distraught, contacted the Pavena Foundation asking for an investigation into the cause of her baby’s death. The foundation’s founder, Pavena Hongsakul, immediately contacted Kamphaeng Phet’s provincial health chief Dr. Prinya Nakpunubut to launch an investigation. While Mrs. Nid was still hospitalised, officials from the provincial health office visited her to gather details. Upon her release from hospital on 28 April, Pavena coordinated with local police to transport the baby’s body to the Police General Hospital’s Forensic Institute in Bangkok for autopsy. The foundation also covered fuel costs for the journey and has pledged to ensure full transparency and justice for the family. The case will be escalated to Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin, via his assistant Dr. Thanakrit Jitareerat. Additionally, social welfare authorities in Kamphaeng Phet have been asked to visit the family and offer support. The Pavena Foundation has vowed to closely monitor the case and coordinate efforts between the provincial public health office and the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security to ensure the family receives answers and proper assistance. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-01.