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Backlash as Foreigners Give Monks a High-Speed Lift in Pattaya A video circulating on social media showing two foreign tourists giving a lift to Buddhist monks on a motorcycle has sparked widespread criticism. Concerns have been raised over the appropriateness of the act, with some fearing it could bring disrepute to the religion. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353002-backlash-as-foreigners-give-monks-a-high-speed-lift-in-pattaya/

Picture courtesy of SiamChon. A video circulating on social media showing two foreign tourists giving a lift to Buddhist monks on a motorcycle has sparked widespread criticism. Concerns have been raised over the appropriateness of the act, with some fearing it could bring disrepute to the religion. The video, originally posted on TikTok by a user named @rjannie, who has around 600 followers, runs for approximately 37 seconds. The caption reads: “Anything goes in Pattaya! Foreigners giving monks a ride, snapping a pic, and getting a blessing. So cool! LOL.” The clip was later shared by the Facebook page “อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้รีเทริน์” (Want to be famous? We’ll make it happen – Return) with an extended 48-second version. This version described the moment as a joyful experience for the tourists, with the monks even tying sacred wristbands and offering blessings. The footage shows two foreign men riding a motorcycle with two monks as passengers before dropping them off at an undisclosed location. They then pose for photos with the monks as a memento of their encounter. The video has since sparked debate, with many questioning whether such an act is appropriate and warning of the potential damage to the religion’s image. It remains unclear which temple the monks belong to, but the original poster claims the incident took place in Pattaya. -- 2025-02-27

Four-Year-Old Girl Jumps into Tapi River and Disappears A four-year-old girl is missing after jumping into the Tapi River in Surat Thani while her parents were momentarily distracted. Rescue teams searched all day for the child, but she has yet to be found. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353001-four-year-old-girl-jumps-into-tapi-river-and-disappears/

Picture from responders. A four-year-old girl is missing after jumping into the Tapi River in Surat Thani while her parents were momentarily distracted. Rescue teams searched all day for the child, but she has yet to be found. The incident occurred at approximately 08:25 when local police in Surat Thani received a report of a young girl falling into the river near the end of Soi Srikasem 8 in the city’s municipal area. CCTV footage from a nearby restaurant captured the tragic moment at 8:24. The footage shows the girl, identified as “Fah,” dressed in pink, walking out to play behind the restaurant, which backs onto the river. Moments later, she is seen jumping into the water before disappearing beneath the current. Warning: Link below shows the CCTV of her jumping into the water Authorities immediately coordinated with the Kusolsattha Surat Thani rescue team, deploying divers to search the river. Despite an extensive search lasting hours, there has been no sign of the child. This heartbreaking incident comes amid ongoing flooding in several districts of Surat Thani due to heavy rainfall and rising water levels. -- 2025-02-27

Elephant Rescued from Snare in Sa Kaeo Province A young wild elephant caught in a wire snare has been successfully rescued and treated by a team of veterinarians and wildlife officials in Sa Kaeo province. The youngster, found limping alongside its mother, had a swollen and injured front right ankle due to the tightly wound snare. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353000-elephant-rescued-from-snare-in-sa-kaeo-province/

Picture from responders. A young wild elephant caught in a wire snare has been successfully rescued and treated by a team of veterinarians and wildlife officials in Sa Kaeo province. The youngster, found limping alongside its mother, had a swollen and injured front right ankle due to the tightly wound snare. Mr. Ekachai Saendee, head of the Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary, reported that the elephant was discovered in Moo 5, Ban Khlong Takhian Chai, Thung Maha Charoen subdistrict, Wang Nam Yen district. Authorities immediately mobilised a rescue team, including veterinarians from Wildlife Rescue Centre 2 (Krabok Khu), staff from the Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary, the head of the Chong Klam Bon Wildlife Breeding Station, the local administrative organisation, and village security personnel. To ensure the safety of both the youngster and its mother, veterinarians administered a sedative before proceeding with treatment. The young male elephant, estimated to be between one and two years old and weighing approximately 200 kilograms, was found with a metal wire snare tightly wrapped around its ankle, causing swelling and difficulty walking. Fortunately, the wound had not yet become infected. Veterinarians carefully removed the snare and treated the wound with antiseptic, antibiotics to prevent infection, anti-inflammatory medication, and pain relief. They also applied an anti-parasitic treatment and thoroughly cleaned the area before administering a recovery drug to reverse the sedative. Both the calf and its mother recovered well from the procedure. Mr. Ekachai praised the collaboration between the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, the Protected Area Regional Office 2 (Si Racha), and the Wildlife Conservation Office, highlighting their dedication to protecting and caring for Thailand’s wildlife. He also emphasised that officials will continue to monitor the elephant’s condition closely to ensure a full recovery. Authorities expressed their gratitude to the veterinarians and rescue team for their professionalism, dedication, and sacrifice in ensuring the young elephant’s survival and its safe reunion with its mother. The incident underscores the ongoing threat posed by snares in Thailand’s forests, which are often set by poachers targeting other wildlife but inadvertently trap endangered species like elephants. Conservationists continue to call for stricter enforcement against illegal hunting and improved protection measures for Thailand’s wildlife. -- 2025-02-27

Police in Nakhon Si Thammarat Crush Illegal Exhaust Pipes & Seize Large Cache of Weapons Police in Nakhon Si Thammarat have destroyed 776 illegal motorcycle exhaust pipes as part of a month-long crackdown on illegal street racing. Officers also seized a significant number of illegal firearms and arrested 557 drug-related offenders, marking a major success in crime suppression efforts. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352999-police-in-nakhon-si-thammarat-crush-illegal-exhaust-pipes-seize-large-cache-of-weapons/

Picture courtesy of Police Police in Nakhon Si Thammarat have destroyed 776 illegal motorcycle exhaust pipes as part of a month-long crackdown on illegal street racing. Officers also seized a significant number of illegal firearms and arrested 557 drug-related offenders, marking a major success in crime suppression efforts. At a press conference on 26 February, outside the Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Police headquarters, Pol. Maj. Gen. Jarut Krutyaporn, the provincial police chief, announced the results of the latest crime suppression campaign. Conducted over the past month, the operation aligns with the Royal Thai Police’s national crime prevention and suppression plan, as well as Provincial Police Region 8’s “Protecting Citizens, Suppressing Crime” initiative. During the operation, police arrested 557 individuals on drug charges, confiscating: • 667,604 methamphetamine pills • 2,413.8 grams of crystal methamphetamine • 0.4 grams of heroin • Assets worth 4,550,725 baht, including cash, vehicles, mobile phones, and firearms Regarding firearm-related offences, police arrested 86 suspects and seized: • 1 explosive device • 54 registered firearms • 15 unregistered firearms • 296 rounds of ammunition • 1 M16 assault rifle In addition to drug and firearm seizures, police from all 32 stations across the province confiscated 776 illegal motorcycle exhaust pipes designed to produce excessive noise. These exhausts were publicly destroyed using a steamroller, ensuring they cannot be reused. Pol. Maj. Gen. Jarut has ordered officers to strictly enforce regulations against illegally modified motorcycles that disturb residents. When youths are caught with illegal racing modifications, police will summon their parents for a formal warning. Repeat offences will result in legal action against the parents under parental responsibility laws. The Nakhon Si Thammarat police vow to continue their crackdown on street racing, illegal firearms, and drug-related crimes to maintain public safety. -- 2025-02-27

Schoolgirl Injured in Motorcycle Collision with Doctor’s Car A female student riding her motorcycle to school was injured after colliding with a car driven by a doctor in Phimai, Nakhon Ratchasima. The student became trapped under the vehicle, and the police are investigating the incident to determine fault. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352998-schoolgirl-injured-in-motorcycle-collision-with-doctor’s-car/

Picture from responders. A female student riding her motorcycle to school was injured after colliding with a car driven by a doctor in Phimai, Nakhon Ratchasima. The student became trapped under the vehicle, and the police are investigating the incident to determine fault. At approximately 08:15 on February 26, Police Lieutenant Colonel Prayoon Katiya, Deputy Investigator at Phimai Police Station, was alerted to the crash near the Phimai Boat Racing Bridge, close to the Phimai New Market intersection. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene. Authorities found a white Honda City car, registered in Ubon Ratchathani, with damage to the right front wing. The driver, identified as Dr. Wachirawit, works at Phimai Hospital. The injured student, 17-year-old Suchanan from Samrit Sub-district, was lying on the road with her right leg trapped beneath the car. Dr. Wachirawit assessed her injuries while waiting for the rescue team from Phimai Hospital to arrive. Nearby, officers discovered a black Honda PCX motorcycle belonging to the student, which had sustained front-end damage. The police took photographs of the scene for evidence before having the motorcycle removed to clear the road for traffic. Dr. Wachirawit stated that he was driving from his home to work at the hospital when he approached the intersection and collided with the student’s motorcycle, which was travelling straight ahead. Police suspect that both parties were in a hurry during the busy morning hours, which may have contributed to the collision. They are thoroughly investigating the incident, examining evidence from the scene, reviewing nearby CCTV footage, and interviewing both parties and witnesses to determine the cause of the accident. The findings will be used to complete the legal process surrounding the incident. -- 2025-02-27

Warehouse Blaze Causes Damage Estimated at 10 Million Baht A fire at a leather goods and audio equipment warehouse in Pathum Thani has resulted in significant damage, estimated to be no less than 10 million baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352997-warehouse-blaze-causes-damage-estimated-at-10-million-baht/

Picture from responders. A fire at a leather goods and audio equipment warehouse in Pathum Thani has resulted in significant damage, estimated to be no less than 10 million baht. The incident occurred in the Klong Luang district on the evening of 25 February, shortly before 20:00. Firefighters were dispatched to the scene with over 20 fire trucks as the flames spread rapidly due to the highly combustible materials stored within the warehouse. The blaze quickly engulfed several adjacent warehouses, complicating firefighting efforts, which were hampered by strong winds. It took firefighters approximately three hours to bring the fire under control. Reports indicate that four warehouses were damaged in the fire; however, authorities were fortunate that there were no injuries or fatalities associated with the incident. The owner of the warehouse, who operates a logistics service and sells leather products, including bags and speakers, stated that no staff were present at the time of the fire, as it occurred after working hours. Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit. The estimated financial impact of the incident is significant, with losses projected to exceed 10 million baht. -- 2025-02-27

27-Year-Old Arrested After Stealing Motorcycle and Crashing into Cement Mixer A 27-year-old man has been apprehended following a series of reckless actions that included stealing a motorcycle while under the influence of drugs and alcohol, resulting in a crash with a cement mixer. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352996-27-year-old-arrested-after-stealing-motorcycle-and-crashing-into-cement-mixer/

Picture from responders. A 27-year-old man has been apprehended following a series of reckless actions that included stealing a motorcycle while under the influence of drugs and alcohol, resulting in a crash with a cement mixer. At approximately 11:30 on February 26, police in Udon Thani, led by Lieutenant Colonel Udomchok Singhakulsiri, arrested Seksan, a resident of Non Sung District, on charges of theft and illegal drug use after he was linked to the theft of a motorcycle and subsequent crash. The investigation revealed that Seksan had stolen a red Honda Wave 110 motorcycle from 46-year-old Ms. Payom, who had left the bike unlocked outside her home in Nong Sok Dao. The theft occurred around 17:00 on February 22, shortly before Seksan crashed the stolen bike into a cement mixer approximately 15 kilometres from the crime scene, resulting in injuries, including requiring eight stitches under his left eye. Seksan admitted to having consumed methamphetamine and a small bottle of liquor prior to the theft and subsequent crash. He stated that he had walked to the victim’s home to borrow money but, upon finding no one there, he impulsively decided to steal the motorcycle when he noticed it was unlocked. After the crash, he spent four days in the hospital recovering from his injuries. However, as soon as he returned home, police arrested him after receiving tips and social media posts that identified him as the suspect in the theft. Seksan expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging that he had a history of substance abuse and had previously been caught stealing a bicycle. He explained that he stole the motorcycle in desperation after being unable to find work and had planned to use it to look for job opportunities. The police are now investigating the case further and have taken Seksan back to the scene of the crime for a reconstruction of events. Family members and local residents gathered to witness the proceedings, during which they expressed their anger towards Seksan, who was reportedly struck on the head during the confrontation, although police intervened to prevent any further violence. Ms. Payom described the stolen motorcycle as vital for her daily activities, including tending to her livestock. She had been away from her home when the theft occurred, and her daughter had tried to chase the thief but was unsuccessful. Seksan is now facing legal proceedings for his actions, which have highlighted ongoing issues surrounding drug abuse and theft in the community. -- 2025-02-27

Man Stabs Wife 11 Times in Brutal Murder A 60-year-old man has been arrested after stabbing his estranged wife 11 times, fatally wounding her in their home in Prachuap Khiri Khan. Their devastated son has spoken out, revealing that his father was deeply addicted to gambling. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352994-man-stabs-wife-11-times-in-brutal-murder/

Picture from responders. A 60-year-old man has been arrested after stabbing his estranged wife 11 times, fatally wounding her in their home in Prachuap Khiri Khan. Their devastated son has spoken out, revealing that his father was deeply addicted to gambling. The shocking attack took place at around 05:30 on 25 February in Ban Na Thong, Khlong Wan subdistrict, Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan. The suspect, identified as Sumpan Siangsai, used a newly purchased 50-centimetre knife to stab his wife, 53-year-old Sangwan Sualek, in the torso, with multiple wounds penetrating her heart and lungs. She died at the scene. Relatives are preparing for funeral rites at the family home, following an autopsy at Hua Hin Hospital. The victim’s brother, Suntorn Sualek, 57, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, saying he never imagined the domestic dispute would escalate to such violence. He revealed that the couple had legally divorced three years ago due to Sumpan’s severe gambling addiction, but they continued living under the same roof while maintaining separate lives. Recently, Sangwan discovered that Sumpan had taken out a loan of 10,000 baht without informing the family, adding to previous financial strains. According to Suntorn, his sister was attacked while entering their home from the front of her shop. “She had just taken off her kitchen shoes and was likely ambushed at the door. The wounds suggest she was stabbed inside the house before collapsing outside,” he explained. Her son, Phongphrom Siangsai, 26, was inside the bathroom at the time. He later said, “If I had been at the front of the house, my mother would still be alive. My father wouldn’t have dared to attack her in front of me.” Phongphrom stated that his parents had not argued frequently in the past but had clashed in the days leading up to the attack. “Three or four days ago, my mother found out that my father had pawned our car. A debt collection notice arrived for over 20,000 baht. My father tried to reconcile, but my mother refused. I never imagined he would resort to such brutality.” He added that he is struggling to comprehend what his father has done. “If I see him, I don’t even know what to say. I’m at a loss for words.” Authorities have taken Sumpan into custody, and he will face charges of murder. -- 2025-02-27

Fatal Three-Vehicle Collision Outside Thung Wa Police Station A serious road crash involving three vehicles occurred outside Thung Wa Police Station in Satun on the morning of 26 February, resulting in one fatality and two injuries. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352993-fatal-three-vehicle-collision-outside-thung-wa-police-station/

Picture from responders. A serious road crash involving three vehicles occurred outside Thung Wa Police Station in Satun on the morning of 26 February, resulting in one fatality and two injuries. The collision took place in front of Thung Wa Police Station in Na Thon Subdistrict, Thung Wa District, when a Honda car, driven by Police Sub-Lieutenant Walid Iaddii, slowed down in the middle lane to turn right into the station. At that moment, an 18-wheeler trailer truck, registered in Trang, driven by Wutthichai Pankhiew, approached at high speed and crashed into the rear of the car. The impact sent the car into the opposite lane, where it was struck head-on by an oncoming 10-wheel truck registered in Songkhla, driven by 41-year-old Kraiwith Rodkaew from Wang Wiset District, Trang. The force of the collision caused the larger truck to veer off the road, crushing the car as it fell into a roadside ditch. Emergency responders arrived at the scene to assist the injured. Both Wutthichai, the trailer truck driver, and Pol. Sub-Lt. Walid sustained injuries and were transported to Thung Wa Hospital for treatment. Kraiwith, the driver of the 10-wheel truck, was killed in the crash, trapped inside his vehicle. Rescue workers from the Rom Sai Foundation used hydraulic cutting equipment to extract his body, which was later taken to the hospital for a post-mortem examination. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash and will question the injured drivers once their conditions improve to determine responsibility and pursue legal proceedings. -- 2025-02-27

Fire Destroys 40 Shops at Thailand-Cambodia Border Market A major fire broke out at the Rong Kluea Market, a bustling border trade hub between Thailand and Cambodia, in the early hours of February 26, destroying at least 40 shop units. The blaze sent traders scrambling to save their goods as emergency services worked to bring the flames under control. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352992-fire-destroys-40-shops-at-thailand-cambodia-border-market/

Pictures from responders. A major fire broke out at the Rong Kluea Market, a bustling border trade hub between Thailand and Cambodia, in the early hours of February 26, destroying at least 40 shop units. The blaze sent traders scrambling to save their goods as emergency services worked to bring the flames under control. The fire started at approximately 00:10 in the market’s Golden Gate section (Municipal Market 3, Gate 2), in the area of second-hand shoe stalls in Ban Khlong Luek, Aranyaprathet district, Sa Kaeo province. Firefighters from the Aranyaprathet municipal fire brigade, along with multiple rescue teams, rushed to the scene to contain the fire. Authorities reported that the affected area consisted of rented retail spaces selling various goods, including clothing, bags, and accessories. Given the highly flammable nature of these products, the fire spread rapidly. Rescue teams from the Sawang Thieng Tham Foundation and the Aranyaprathet Rescue Foundation worked alongside local officials to control the flames. Aranyaprathet Mayor Watcharin Aranjaroenying personally supervised the operation, coordinating efforts with local administrative bodies, police from Klong Luek Police Station, and paramilitary forces from the 12th Ranger Battalion. A total of 12 fire engines from multiple municipal districts, including Aranyaprathet, Pa Rai, Ban Mai, Tha Kham, Ban Dan, Fak Huai, and additional support from the military and border patrol police, were deployed to tackle the blaze. By 02:40, firefighters had successfully contained the fire, though smoke continued to rise from the affected area. Initial inspections suggest that the fire destroyed between 40 and 50 rental units in sections R and A of the market. Authorities have yet to determine the exact cause of the blaze, though preliminary reports suggest it may have been triggered by an electrical short circuit. Police from Klong Luek station are set to conduct a thorough investigation later today. Mayor Watcharin emphasised the swift and coordinated response from all involved agencies, praising firefighters, police, and volunteers for their efforts in preventing the fire from spreading further. The Rong Kluea Market, located near the Thai-Cambodian border, is one of Thailand’s largest second-hand goods markets and a key centre for trade in the region. Traders affected by the fire now face significant losses, with officials expected to assess the full extent of the damage in the coming days. -- 2025-02-27

Was reported this morning.

UPDATE Relatives of Bus Crash Victims Search for Missing Valuables The bus recovered to the police station. Chaos ensued as relatives of the victims from the bus crash searched for missing belongings, including diamonds and approximately 10 baht weight of gold, believed to have been stored in a handbag. On the afternoon of February 26, authorities brought the bus involved in the crash to the police station for further investigation. Families of the victims arrived to inquire about their loved ones’ belongings. Some relatives reported that valuables were missing, leading to heightened distress amid an already tragic situation. One relative shared that the deceased had valuable items in their bag, including a mobile phone, approximately 10 baht of gold, diamond rings, and important documents. These items were typically carried in a small handbag, which has yet to be found, with only a large bag of clothing located so far. Officials are currently conducting a thorough search for the missing handbag and the valuables reported lost by the victims’ families. They are also inspecting the bus for damage and potential recovery of lost belongings. The situation remains stressful as families hope to recover their loved ones’ possessions amidst their grief. -- 2025-02-26

UPDATE Coach Driver Charged with Reckless Driving After Fatal Crash in Prachinburi Police have formally charged the driver of the bus with reckless driving causing death following the devastating crash at Khao Thon, Na Di District, Prachinburi. The driver, whose name has not been disclosed, stated that at the time of the crash, he was driving in low gear at approximately 40 km/h. However, he admitted that he had failed to stop at the designated rest area checkpoint. As he began descending the mountain road, he realised that the brakes were no longer functioning, leading to the fatal crash. Authorities are continuing their investigation and are considering additional charges against the driver. Police are also examining whether mechanical failure or negligence played a role in the tragedy. Video showing the convoy of the Sawang Srivilai Bueng Kan Ambulances returning the victims to their home province. -- 2025-02-26

In this incident it is now reported that the bus hit the concrete barrier, fly over it and rolled onto its side, then struck the embankment, which ripped the roof off. I have also seen initial responders videos and pictures, too gruesome to post, which show that the victims and casualties were thrown out of the bus by the impact and were found by initial responders on the ground. Yes I agree that roof removal, is very common to gain access and allow working space to deal with casualties, in this case the roof was ripped back by the impact and parts of the roof are under the rear of the overturned bus.

ANALYSIS Reflecting on 18 Years of Tragedy: More Lives Lost in Another Double-Decker Bus Crash Picture from responders. The crash today, involving a double-decker bus carrying a delegation from Phon Charoen Municipality in Bueng Kan, which overturned while descending Phu Thon Hill in Prachinburi province, left the bus was severely damaged, with the roof torn off, and many passengers were ejected from the vehicle. This incident adds to a long history of double-decker bus accidents that have sparked ongoing debates about their safety. Civil society groups have previously advocated for the abolition of double-decker buses in public transport due to their dangerous track record. A History of Fatal Crashes Since 2007, there have been numerous fatal crashes involving double-decker buses, resulting in deaths. Some notable incidents include: • 19 January 2007: A double-decker bus carrying teachers from Chanthaburi overturned on a steep curve, resulting in 21 fatalities and over 30 injuries. • 10 October 2008: A bus carrying students from Khon Kaen lost control on a hill, leading to 21 deaths and 27 injuries. • 28 February 2014: A double-decker bus carrying students from Nakhon Ratchasima collided with a trailer truck, killing 17 and injuring 45. • 9 March 2017: A sightseeing bus fell off a cliff near the Phu Thon Shrine in Prachinburi, killing six and injuring around 50. • 21 March 2018: A tour bus from Kalasin overturned after crossing a median, leading to 18 deaths and 32 injuries. • 3 June 2023: A double-decker bus transporting village heads and local leaders resulted in two deaths and over 30 injuries. According to a report by the Department of Land Transport’s Office of Transport Safety, there were 54,185 registered public buses and 57,792 non-scheduled buses in 2024. Despite these numbers, the recurring incidents, have raised serious concerns about the safety standards of double-decker buses. As the country mourns the latest victims, there are renewed calls for action to improve safety regulations surrounding double-decker buses. The ongoing pattern of such devastating crashes highlights a systemic issue that has yet to be addressed adequately. -- 2025-02-26