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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Two Business Executives Arrested for Investment Scam Police have arrested two women suspected of running a fraudulent investment scheme involving mobile SIM cards and top-up machines, promising high financial returns. Authorities have seized assets worth over 50 million baht, including luxury cars, branded handbags, and hundreds of top-up machines. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353105-two-business-executives-arrested-for-investment-scam/

Picture courtesy of CIB Police have arrested two women suspected of running a fraudulent investment scheme involving mobile SIM cards and top-up machines, promising high financial returns. Authorities have seized assets worth over 50 million baht, including luxury cars, branded handbags, and hundreds of top-up machines. The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), led by Police Major General Thatphoom Charuprat, announced on 27 February, the arrest of Ms. Roengrudi, 45, and Ms. Pornpimon, 30, executives of Pun Suk 555 Co., Ltd. and K4 Communication Co., Ltd. The suspects, who are aunt and niece, allegedly lured investors into a high-return investment scheme. Victims were invited to invest 50,000 baht in a prepaid SIM card business and “Katie Pun Suk” top-up machines, with the promise of 150,000 baht in returns over 500 days. Additionally, those who recruited new investors were offered up to 50% commission. Investors signed up via the company’s website and made payments via QR code transactions. Initially, the scheme appeared legitimate, as investors received payouts, encouraging them to recruit more participants. However, by October 2024, payments stopped, and when victims demanded their returns, the suspects claimed technical issues with the machines. In February 2025, 61 victims, representing nearly 300 affected investors, reported losses totalling over 27 million baht to the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD). Following an undercover operation, police attended an investment seminar at the company’s office in Khan Na Yao district, where they arrested both suspects. Authorities seized: • 11 luxury cars • 258 top-up machines • 4 branded handbags • Other assets Investigations revealed that the suspects imported top-up machines from a Thai company but never obtained approval from the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC). Some machines were found non-functional, and the suspects had allegedly transferred and concealed assets to avoid detection. Both suspects have been charged with fraud and unauthorised public borrowing. They have denied all allegations. Authorities have warned the public to remain cautious of high-return investment schemes and confirmed that the Consumer Protection Board (CPB) is reviewing the case to determine additional legal actions. -- 2025-02-28

Mother Killed in Collision on River Bridge, Eight-Year-Old Daughter Injured A collision on a bridge over the Noi River in Bang Rachan district, Sing Buri, has claimed the life of a mother while her eight-year-old daughter, a special needs child who is unable to speak, sustained serious injuries. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353104-mother-killed-in-collision-on-river-bridge-eight-year-old-daughter-injured/

Picture from responders. A collision on a bridge over the Noi River in Bang Rachan district, Sing Buri, has claimed the life of a mother while her eight-year-old daughter, a special needs child who is unable to speak, sustained serious injuries. The incident occurred at approximately 10:30 on 27 February, when a four-wheeled sand truck, a Toyota with registration number from Sing Buri, collided with a bicycle being pushed by the victim. The truck’s front left headlight was found damaged, bearing signs of the impact. The deceased has been identified as Ms. Khattiya Phorn, 43, a resident of Pho Chon Kai subdistrict. She suffered severe injuries to her left thigh, left knee, and head, succumbing to her wounds despite rescue efforts. Her daughter, referred to as Miss A aged 8, was found injured at the scene with multiple wounds on her body. She was promptly taken to Bang Rachan Hospital for treatment. Emergency responders also discovered a black bicycle with visible drag marks, two pairs of flip-flops, and a pink water bottle at the scene. Mr. Adun, 45, the driver of the transport truck carrying sand and some rebar, recounted that he was driving up the bridge when he noticed the mother and daughter walking ahead, with the young girl running on the pavement. The child was reportedly trying to get onto the bicycle when she lost her balance, causing both her and her mother to fall onto the road. Unable to brake in time, Mr. Adun’s truck struck them. Authorities from Bang Rachan Police Station are investigating the incident further to determine whether charges will be filed against the driver. -- 2025-02-28

Pattaya Taxi Rider Left in Critical Condition After Brutal Attack with Concrete Block A heated altercation outside a Pattaya apartment complex ended in violence as a man attacked a motorbike taxi driver with a concrete block, leaving him in critical condition. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353101-pattaya-taxi-rider-left-in-critical-condition-after-brutal-attack-with-concrete-block/

Picture from responders. A heated altercation outside a Pattaya apartment complex ended in violence as a man attacked a motorbike taxi driver with a concrete block, leaving him in critical condition. A 28-year-old motorbike taxi driver was left fighting for his life after being repeatedly struck with a concrete block in a violent attack outside a residential building in Pattaya. The incident, which occurred at approximately 09:00 on 27 February, in Soi Arunothai 2, Central Pattaya, was reported to local rescue services and police, who quickly responded to the scene. Rescue workers from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation arrived at the scene to find the victim, later identified as Mr. Paisan, 28, from Kalasin province, lying unconscious on the ground next to a marble table. He had a faint pulse and was struggling to breathe. A deep, gaping wound was visible on the right side of his head, while his left arm had a severe laceration, with blood pooling around his body. Emergency responders immediately administered first aid before rushing him to Pattaya City Hospital. Nearby, police officers discovered a bloodstained concrete block believed to be the weapon used in the attack. The suspect, identified as Mr. Sittharacha, 36, remained at the scene and voluntarily surrendered to the police. During questioning, Mr. Sittharacha, who identified as gay, claimed he had been eating outside his apartment when Mr. Paisan, visibly intoxicated, approached him aggressively. The victim allegedly hurled insults and made threatening gestures despite the two being strangers. Fearing for his safety, Mr. Sittharacha admitted to grabbing a concrete block and striking the victim three times, knocking him to the ground along with the marble chair he was sitting on. After the attack, he immediately sought help. The apartment owner provided further insight into the situation, confirming that both men were tenants. He stated that Mr. Paisan was known to regularly consume alcohol and often hurled verbal abuse at neighbours and passers-by. CCTV footage from the building captured the sequence of events. At 8:45 am, Mr. Paisan was seen arriving on a white motorbike before approaching Mr. Sittharacha, who was seated at a table. The two engaged in a brief conversation, during which the victim appeared increasingly agitated. He then stood up, seemingly preparing to confront the suspect, who responded by grabbing a concrete block and striking him repeatedly, causing him to collapse instantly. Following his arrest, Mr. Sittharacha was taken into custody at Pattaya City Police Station. Police have charged him with causing grievous bodily harm, with further investigations ongoing to determine the exact circumstances leading to the attack. -- 2025-02-28

Bangladeshi Man Arrested for Selling Cannabis Vape Pods in Ramkhamhaeng Authorities have arrested a Bangladeshi man for illegally selling cannabis-infused vape pods in Bangkok’s Ramkhamhaeng area. The suspect, Mr Habibur Rahman Biddut, aged 45, was caught in possession of 100 cannabis vape pods during a police sting operation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353100-bangladeshi-man-arrested-for-selling-cannabis-vape-pods-in-ramkhamhaeng/

Picture of arrest. Authorities have arrested a Bangladeshi man for illegally selling cannabis-infused vape pods in Bangkok’s Ramkhamhaeng area. The suspect, Mr Habibur Rahman Biddut, aged 45, was caught in possession of 100 cannabis vape pods during a police sting operation on the night of 26 February. The arrest was made by officers from the Metropolitan Police Bureau’s Narcotics Division (Bureau 4), following intelligence that a foreign national was involved in the illegal sale of cannabis vapes in the Ramkhamhaeng and Bang Chan areas. The suspect was described as about 40-year-old man of medium build, dark complexion, and short hair, standing approximately 170cm tall. Investigators arranged a controlled purchase to confirm the suspect’s activities. The transaction was set to take place at a commercial building in the Saphan Sung district. At around 23:30, the suspect arrived at the agreed location to deliver the goods. As soon as the exchange was made, officers moved in to arrest him, seizing 100 cannabis vape pods as evidence. Upon questioning, Mr Biddut admitted that the items belonged to him, stating that he had obtained them from another foreign national and was selling them for profit. Authorities have charged the suspect with violating consumer protection laws under Section 29/9, Paragraph 2 of the Consumer Protection Act (Amendment No. 4, 2019). This law, enforced by Order No. 7/2558 of the Consumer Protection Board, explicitly bans the sale and distribution of electronic cigarettes, baraku (hookah) devices, and related substances. If convicted, Mr Biddut faces penalties under Section 56/4 and Section 37 of the Consumer Protection Act. He has been transferred to Bang Chan Police Station for further legal proceedings. The arrest comes as part of Thailand’s ongoing efforts to regulate the use and sale of cannabis-related products following the country’s move to decriminalise cannabis in 2022. While cannabis was removed from the narcotics list, the commercial sale of cannabis extracts, including those used in vape products, remains illegal without proper licensing. Authorities have intensified crackdowns on illegal cannabis sales, particularly involving foreign nationals exploiting legal loopholes. Police have warned that more operations will be conducted to curb the illegal trade of cannabis-infused products. The case against Mr Biddut is now in the hands of prosecutors, and he will face legal action under Thai law. -- 2025-02-28

Rescue Volunteer’s Leg Crushed by Lorry in Samut Prakan A 48-year-old female rescue volunteer was critically injured after a 10-wheel lorry cut across her path while turning into a petrol station on Theparak Road (Bang Na-Trat) in Samut Prakan. The crash, captured on CCTV, shows the moment the lorry struck her motorbike, dragging her under its wheels and crushing her leg. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353099-rescue-volunteer’s-leg-crushed-by-lorry-in-samut-prakan/

Picture from responders. A 48-year-old female rescue volunteer was critically injured after a 10-wheel lorry cut across her path while turning into a petrol station on Theparak Road (Bang Na-Trat) in Samut Prakan. The crash, captured on CCTV, shows the moment the lorry struck her motorbike, dragging her under its wheels and crushing her leg. At approximately 08:45 on 27 February, police officers from Bang Phli Police Station and rescue personnel from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation were alerted to the incident at kilometre marker 20 on the inbound parallel lane of Theparak Road in Bang Chalong subdistrict. Upon arrival, officers found a white Isuzu 10-wheel lorry with Bangkok registration plates, parked at the entrance of the petrol station. Beneath the vehicle’s left side was a severely damaged black Honda Click motorbike with Saraburi registration. Nearby, Ms. Jirarat Chuttho 48, a petrol station employee and a volunteer with the Poh Teck Tung Foundation in Nonthaburi, lay on the ground in critical condition. Her left leg had been crushed beyond recognition, and she was losing a significant amount of blood. Emergency responders provided immediate first aid, using a belt as a tourniquet to stem the bleeding before rushing her to Chularat 3 International Hospital. Security footage from the petrol station captured the horrifying moment the lorry, travelling in the second lane from the left, made a sudden turn into the station, cutting across Ms. Jirarat’s path. Unable to avoid the collision, she struck the side of the vehicle and was thrown under its wheels, where she and her motorbike were dragged along the road. Her left leg was crushed from the knee down, leaving her in excruciating pain until help arrived. Mr. Banpot Sombunyin, 49, the lorry driver, told police that he had been turning into the petrol station to refuel. He claimed to have signalled his turn and insisted he had not seen the motorbike approaching. He only realised what had happened after hearing the impact and feeling the vehicle drag something underneath. Meanwhile, Mr. Kaew, a petrol station employee, described how he had been refuelling a customer’s car when he saw the crash unfold. “I saw the motorbike coming towards the petrol station entrance at the same time as the lorry. The lorry turned just as she was about to enter, causing the collision. She was dragged under the truck, and at first, the driver didn’t stop. I shouted that he was running over someone, and he immediately stopped, got out, and helped to try to pull her from under the truck before calling for emergency assistance,” he said. Police have documented the scene and taken witness statements. The lorry driver has been taken to the police station for further questioning as part of the ongoing investigation. Legal proceedings are expected to follow. Meanwhile, the Poh Teck Tung Foundation has deployed personnel to support Ms. Jirarat during her recovery. -- 2025-02-28

UPDATE Bus Crash: GPS Data Reveals Timeline of Tragedy Picture from responders. The crash involving a bus carrying a group from Phon Charoen Municipality in Bueng Kan occurred on Highway 304 in Nadi district, Prachinburi,, when the bus driver lost control and overturned off the road, at approximately 03:09 on 26 February. GPS Data Reveals Speed and Route According to Ms. Piyawan Thapaengphan, the Bueng Kan transport officer, and Mr. Issara Sothong, a vehicle inspection officer, the bus, registered as a non-fixed-route passenger vehicle with registration number 30-0040 Bueng Kan, had been monitored via a GPS tracking system installed by Thai GPS Service Co., Ltd. Timeline of the journey: • 25 February, 17:01 – The bus departed from Phon Charoen, Bueng Kan. • 25 February, 17:40 – Entered Sakon Nakhon province. • 25 February, 18:57 – Entered Udon Thani province. • 25 February, 20:58 – Entered Khon Kaen province. • 25 February, 23:55 – Entered Nakhon Ratchasima province. • 26 February, 03:01 – Entered Prachinburi province. • 26 February, 03:09 – The bus crashed in Bu Phram subdistrict, Nadi district, Prachinburi. Speed Before the Crash GPS data shows the bus was travelling at varying speeds leading up to the crash: • 03:06 – 21 km/h • 03:07 – 23 km/h • 03:08 – 44 km/h • 03:09 – Peaked at 85 km/h (the moment of the crash) Officials have noted concerns regarding the driver’s working hours. GPS records indicate the driver exceeded the legal limit of continuous driving, with a stretch from 21:02 on 25 February to 3:09 on 26 February, amounting to 6 hours and 7 minutes of non-stop driving across Khon Kaen, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Prachinburi provinces. The Department of Land Transport and police are conducting detailed investigations into the cause of the crash. Authorities are urging transport companies to enforce stricter rest periods for drivers to prevent future tragedies. -- 2025-02-27

Drunk Naval Officer Crashes Car: Armed Military Attempt to Retrieve Him, Police Stand Firm A suspected drunken naval officer crashed his car into another vehicle late night on 26 February, prompting a dramatic standoff between armed military personnel and local police, who refused to release him. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353031-drunk-naval-officer-crashes-car-armed-military-attempt-to-retrieve-him-police-stand-firm/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A suspected drunken naval officer crashed his car into another vehicle late night on 26 February, prompting a dramatic standoff between armed military personnel and local police, who refused to release him. Police in Plutaluang, Chonburi, were alerted to a road crash on Sukhumvit Road in Moo 7, Plutaluang Subdistrict, Sattahip. Upon arrival, they found a brown Honda City with damage to its rear right side. The car’s owner, Ms. Taraya, was present at the scene. Nearby was a white Toyota Vios, driven by Petty Officer First Class (PO1) Kriangsak, who is attached to the Naval Air and Coastal Defence Command. Two conscripted soldiers were also in the vehicle. PO1 Kriangsak appeared to be heavily intoxicated. As police escorted the officer to the station for a breathalyser test, a pickup truck on sirens arrived, bearing the insignia of the Naval Air and Coastal Defence Command (Sorn Ror For). Six armed military personnel, carrying M16 assault rifles disembarked, attempting to take control of the situation. However, police proceeded with their duty and transported PO1 Kriangsak and the two soldiers to Plutaluang Police Station. Upon arrival, the armed soldiers stationed themselves outside the station, requesting custody of their superior and the two conscripts for internal disciplinary action. The police refused and conducted a breathalyser test on PO1 Kriangsak, revealing a blood alcohol level well above the legal limit. He was immediately charged with drink-driving and detained overnight before being scheduled for a court appearance at Pattaya Provincial Court. Meanwhile, the two conscripted soldiers accompanying him were returned to their military unit for internal disciplinary action. The incident has sparked discussions about military discipline and the role of armed personnel in civilian law enforcement matters. -- 2025-02-27

UPDATE Firefighters Deny Involvement as ฿10 Million Goes Missing After House Fire Firefighters in Nonthaburi have been summoned for questioning after a house fire at a Royal Irrigation Department employee’s residence led to allegations of missing cash amounting to ฿10 million. The owner, Ms. Nittaya, claimed the money was destroyed in the blaze. However, police later discovered ฿6.5 million hidden in her car, raising further suspicions about the source of the funds. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352777-suspicious-fire-woman-claims-10-million-in-cash-burned-police-discover-65-million-in-car/#findComment-19620106

UPDATE Firefighters Deny Involvement as ฿10 Million Goes Missing After House Fire File picture of the fire station. Firefighters in Nonthaburi have been summoned for questioning after a house fire at a Royal Irrigation Department employee’s residence led to allegations of missing cash amounting to ฿10 million. The owner, Ms. Nittaya, claimed the money was destroyed in the blaze. However, police later discovered ฿6.5 million hidden in her car, raising further suspicions about the source of the funds. According to Ms. Nittaya, the money belonged to a businessman named Mr. First, who allegedly transferred large sums to her and her family. She claimed they withdrew up to ฿3 million per day in cash, earning a commission of ฿10,000 per transaction. Nonthaburi Mayor Samanuek Thanadechakul confirmed that the fire broke out on 23 February at around 14:00 in a government housing unit in Pak Kret. Firefighters arrived within 10 minutes and found local residents already attempting to extinguish the flames. The fire was concentrated in the bedroom, with smoke rising from the mattress. During the operation, firefighters rescued four dogs from the house. Once the fire was under control, the homeowner was allowed to inspect the property. It was at this point that she claimed the money had disappeared. Fire department personnel strongly denied any wrongdoing. “If there had been ฿10 million in cash, it would have left some trace, even if burned,” said Nitirat Laorattanaari, the rescue team leader. “We found only four partially burned 1,000-baht banknotes and we certainly did not take any money” The firefighters immediately alerted the police at Rattanathibet Police Station to investigate. Officers later searched Ms. Nittaya’s vehicle and discovered ฿6.5 million in cash. She was taken in for questioning regarding the source of the money. Police Superintendent Pol. Col. Phisut Chansuwan stated that there were multiple inconsistencies in the case. Investigators are still determining whether the fire was accidental or intentional. Electrical outlets and extension cords were found near the fire’s point of origin, but forensic teams are examining whether the blaze started due to an electrical fault or other causes. Authorities are also scrutinising the financial transactions linked to the missing money. With no CCTV cameras in the vicinity, investigators are relying on witness statements and forensic evidence to piece together the events. At present, no criminal charges related to money laundering have been filed, as the legitimacy of the funds is still being verified. However, police have expressed concerns over conflicting statements provided to the media. Despite the controversy, the Nonthaburi fire brigade remains committed to its duty. “Some of our firefighters feel demoralised by the accusations,” said Nitirat. “But we will continue to serve the public with integrity.” -- 2025-02-27

Brazen Thief Cutting Railway Cables, Causing Millions in Damage Authorities in Chachoengsao are hunting a notorious thief who has been repeatedly cutting railway signal cables, causing millions of baht in damages and disrupting train operations. The suspect, who has evaded capture multiple times, has been living in makeshift shelters under railway structures, bridges and along secluded areas of the tracks. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353008-brazen-thief-cutting-railway-cables-causing-millions-in-damage/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Authorities in Chachoengsao are hunting a notorious thief who has been repeatedly cutting railway signal cables, causing millions of baht in damages and disrupting train operations. The suspect, who has evaded capture multiple times, has been living in makeshift shelters under railway structures, bridges and along secluded areas of the tracks. On 26 February, Boonyong Tanplong, an inspector for the Chachoengsao railway line, led a team of railway officials to investigate recurring signal failures along the route between Chachoengsao Station and Ban Pho Station. Recent disruptions had raised concerns after level crossing barriers failed to operate correctly, putting road users at risk. Upon reaching the Bang Pakong River bridge near Ban Mai 100-Year Market, officials discovered numerous severed cable sections, each approximately five metres long. Some of the cables had already been stripped of their copper wiring, while others were awaiting processing. As the team continued their inspection, they spotted a suspicious man who fled upon seeing them. A chase ensued, leading officials to a makeshift shelter atop a bridge support column. Inside, they found clothing, personal belongings, and evidence linking the suspect to the cable thefts. A further search uncovered over 30 methamphetamine pills hidden inside a green plastic container, as well as more than 30 kilograms of stripped copper wiring. Police from Mueang Chachoengsao Station have been pursuing the suspect for some time but have so far failed to apprehend him. Investigations suggest that the thief operates with the help of lookouts stationed along the railway tracks. These accomplices reportedly alert him whenever authorities approach, allowing him to escape undetected. Local officials, including village leaders and administrative officers, have been conducting regular patrols to curb the thefts. However, the suspect has managed to evade capture by relocating frequently, often setting up shelters in remote areas under railway bridges. Boonyong Tanplong stated that each incident results in hundreds of thousands of baht in damages, with the cumulative losses in Chachoengsao alone reaching several million baht. Authorities are now intensifying their efforts to capture the thief and put an end to the costly vandalism. -- 2025-02-27