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Factory Worker Arrested for Loan Sharking at 280% Interest Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Police have arrested a 45-year-old factory worker in Samut Sakhon for operating an illegal money-lending scheme targeting his colleagues, charging an extortionate annual interest rate of 280% and confiscating borrowers’ ATM cards and PINs as collateral. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359364-factory-worker-arrested-for-loan-sharking-at-280-interest/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Police have arrested a 45-year-old factory worker in Samut Sakhon for operating an illegal money-lending scheme targeting his colleagues, charging an extortionate annual interest rate of 280% and confiscating borrowers’ ATM cards and PINs as collateral. The suspect, identified only as Mr. Chet, was taken into custody at a rented room in Khok Kham Subdistrict, Mueang District. The operation was led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Thaspoom Charuprach, commander of the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECSD), with Pol. Col. Mekpisarn Sripirom and Pol. Lt. Sathitphakorn Taengrot leading the arrest. Authorities confiscated key evidence, including one mobile phone, one tablet, a notebook used for debt records, and 26 ATM cards belonging to borrowers. According to investigators, Mr. Chet had been employed at a local factory but had secretly operated an illegal loan business for the past three to four years, primarily lending to fellow factory workers. He charged interest rates vastly exceeding the legal limit, reportedly up to 280% per year. To secure the loans, borrowers were required to hand over their salary ATM cards and provide their PINs. In the event of missed payments, Mr. Chet would either withdraw funds directly from the victims’ accounts or resort to public shaming by posting defamatory messages about the defaulters on social media. Following an investigation that confirmed unlawful activity, police obtained a search warrant and raided Mr. Chet’s residence, where they found conclusive evidence leading to his arrest. During questioning, the suspect admitted to running the loan scheme independently and confirmed he primarily targeted co-workers from the same factory. Mr. Chet has been charged with operating an unlicensed money-lending business, charging illegal interest rates, and employing intimidation tactics in debt collection. He has been handed over to the ECSD’s Investigation Subdivision 5 for legal proceedings. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-01.

Man Dies in Pickup Truck Crash on Way to Work, Colleagues Call as Rescue Crews Extract Body Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A 22-year-old man working as an admin officer lost his life early morning on 30 April, after crashing his pickup truck into the rear of a parked lorry on Highway 224 in Nakhon Ratchasima. Emergency responders were still attempting to extract the body when the victim’s workplace called his phone to ask why he was late for work. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359363-man-dies-in-pickup-truck-crash-on-way-to-work-colleagues-call-as-rescue-crews-extract-body/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A 22-year-old man working as an admin officer lost his life early morning on 30 April, after crashing his pickup truck into the rear of a parked lorry on Highway 224 in Nakhon Ratchasima. Emergency responders were still attempting to extract the body when the victim’s workplace called his phone to ask why he was late for work. The fatal crash occurred at approximately 05:00 in front of a department store in the Nong Bua Sala area, outbound from Nakhon Ratchasima city, along kilometre markers 4-5 of Highway 224 (Ratchasima–Chokchai Road). Police and rescue personnel from Sawang Metta Korat rushed to the scene. There, they discovered a silver Toyota Vigo pickup truck with Nakhon Ratchasima plates that had collided forcefully with the rear of a six-wheeled lorry also registered in the same province. The pickup was completely under part of the tricks load. The driver, identified as Mr. Saksit 22, from Phetchabun province, was found deceased and pinned in the driver’s seat. While rescue workers were using hydraulic cutters to retrieve the victim’s body, his mobile phone rang. A colleague from his office was calling to ask why he had not shown up for his shift. His body was later recovered and transported to Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital for a post-mortem examination. A local street vendor, Mrs. Nang, 57, who sells grilled pork skewers, recounted the moment: she saw the pickup speeding before crashing into a roadside tent pole and then slamming into the back of the lorry. She expressed relief that she had not been cooking sticky rice at her usual spot near the scene at the time of the crash. Another eyewitness following in a separate vehicle noted the pickup had been swerving since passing a nearby shopping centre, speculating the driver may have been fatigued or otherwise impaired. The lorry driver, Mr. Boonju 59, told police he had parked at the roadside to rest before delivering goods to the department store. He was awakened by the loud crash and promptly called emergency services. Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-01.

Legal Officer Found Dead in Car at Lamphun Provincial Hall Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 30-year-old legal officer was found dead in his car parked within the grounds of the old Lamphun Provincial Hall, after being reported missing by concerned relatives. Authorities are now working to determine the cause of death. Full story :https://aseannow.com/topic/1359362-legal-officer-found-dead-in-car-at-lamphun-provincial-hall/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 30-year-old legal officer was found dead in his car parked within the grounds of the old Lamphun Provincial Hall, after being reported missing by concerned relatives. Authorities are now working to determine the cause of death. Relatives had raised the alarm on 28 April after the man, driving a white Toyota Avanza that hd front-end damage, failed to return home. He was last seen at around 15:00 that day. Reports indicated he had been suffering from stress, leading his family to fear for his safety. A public appeal was issued asking for help locating him. At approximately 18:45 on 29 April, a concerned citizen spotted the vehicle parked at the old provincial hall complex in Lamphun. Police confirmed the car matched the missing person report and began immediate investigation. Officers found the vehicle locked and were unable to access it. A locksmith was called to open the doors. Inside, they discovered the lifeless body of a man, later confirmed to be a government legal officer based in central Lamphun. A handwritten note was also found in the vehicle, though its contents have not been publicly disclosed. At this stage, police from Mueang Lamphun Police Station are treating the case as a potential suicide but have yet to confirm the exact cause of death. A full autopsy and further investigations are underway. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai) or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress or depression. Seek out help. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-01.

Young Woman Buries Stillborn Foetus in Songkhla Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 20-year-old woman from Myanmar is under investigation after admitting to secretly giving birth and burying her stillborn foetus near a workers’ dormitory in Hat Yai, Songkhla province. The incident came to light after she was hospitalised with heavy bleeding and physical exhaustion. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359360-young-woman-buries-stillborn-foetus-in-songkhla/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 20-year-old woman from Myanmar is under investigation after admitting to secretly giving birth and burying her stillborn foetus near a workers’ dormitory in Hat Yai, Songkhla province. The incident came to light after she was hospitalised with heavy bleeding and physical exhaustion. The woman was taken to Hat Yai Hospital after her employer, concerned by her absence from work and signs of physical distress, visited her accommodation. Noticing severe fatigue, vaginal bleeding, and lactation, the employer contacted emergency services. At the hospital, medical staff questioned the woman about her symptoms. Under questioning by a nurse, she confessed to having given birth to a stillborn baby and burying the remains near her home. She explained that she had broken up with her boyfriend some time earlier and kept the pregnancy hidden. The hospital’s social worker subsequently reported the case to Thung Lung Police Station. Pol. Col. Weerasak Detpramuanpol, superintendent of Thung Lung Police, coordinated with forensic officers from Region 9 and rescue workers to investigate the reported burial site in Phatong Subdistrict, Hat Yai District. At the scene, under a tree near the worker housing area, officers discovered a blood-stained bundle containing what appeared to be foetal remains, consistent with a pregnancy of approximately 5–6 months term. The remains were sent to Songklanagarind Hospital for forensic examination. According to initial statements, the woman had been in a relationship for a year before separating from her partner. She reported experiencing abdominal pain and heavy bleeding on the evening of 21 April. Believing she had miscarried, she wrapped the foetus in cloth, placed it in a plastic bag, and buried it herself. Authorities are continuing their investigation. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-01.

Fire Destroys Toy Warehouse in Samut Sakhon, Damage Estimated at Over 10 Million Baht Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A massive fire broke out at a children’s toy warehouse in Samut Sakhon province on the evening of 29 April, causing estimated damages of over 10 million baht. The blaze erupted shortly after the owner had left the premises and was fortunately contained before it could spread to adjacent warehouses. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359359-fire-destroys-toy-warehouse-in-samut-sakhon-damage-estimated-at-over-10-million-baht/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A massive fire broke out at a children’s toy warehouse in Samut Sakhon province on the evening of 29 April, causing estimated damages of over 10 million baht. The blaze erupted shortly after the owner had left the premises and was fortunately contained before it could spread to adjacent warehouses. The fire was reported at approximately 18:30 at Tiny Lion Co., Ltd., located in Moo 8, Nadi Subdistrict, Mueang District. The company distributes plastic children’s toys and developmental products via various online platforms including Lazada and Shopee. Emergency services from across the province responded with over 20 fire engines dispatched from Nadi Municipality, Khlong Maduea Town Municipality, Krathum Baen Municipality, and other local organisations. Upon arrival, they found one of the two large adjoining warehouse buildings engulfed in flames. The interior, filled with plastic-based toys, acted as powerful fuel, accelerating the fire’s spread. Firefighters battled the inferno from all angles for about an hour. Thanks to low wind conditions, they managed to prevent the flames from reaching the neighbouring warehouse. Despite their efforts, part of the burning warehouse’s roof collapsed under intense heat. Authorities continued through the night spraying water on the smouldering remains to prevent potential reignition. Ms. Natthaphat Phuwaphinan, 30, the warehouse owner, stated that she had locked the premises and left only 10 minutes before the fire began. She was alerted by a neighbour across the street and quickly returned to find her warehouse already ablaze. “I had just restocked with new inventory for online sales,” she said. “Everything inside was children’s toys. The damage is likely not less than 10 million baht.” Only one staff member was on-site at the time of the incident and managed to escape unharmed. The cause of the fire is under investigation. Forensic officers and structural engineers will inspect the site to determine the origin of the blaze and assess the building’s integrity. In the meantime, Nadi Municipality has declared the area off-limits until further notice. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-01.

Man Stabs Ex-Wife to Death After She Rejects Reconciliation, Then Attempts Suicide Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 50-year-old man stabbed his ex-wife to death in Chonburi province after she rejected his attempt to rekindle their relationship, citing her commitment to a new partner. The suspect later tried to take his own life but survived with critical injuries. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359357-man-stabs-ex-wife-to-death-after-she-rejects-reconciliation-then-attempts-suicide/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 50-year-old man stabbed his ex-wife to death in Chonburi province after she rejected his attempt to rekindle their relationship, citing her commitment to a new partner. The suspect later tried to take his own life but survived with critical injuries. Police in Bo Win, Si Racha District, received the report at around 22:30 on 29 April. Officers from Bo Win Police Station, led by Pol Lt Col Kanoknan Suksri, along with rescue volunteers from the Silatham Ban Bueng Foundation, responded to the scene, a raised single-storey rented house in Moo 7, Bo Win Subdistrict. Inside, officers discovered the body of 51-year-old Ms. Wannapha lying on her back with eight stab wounds to her chest. Nearby was Mr. Den, 50, suffering from ten self-inflicted stab wounds to his own chest. He was found barely conscious and was rushed to Laem Chabang Hospital in critical condition. Initial investigations revealed that Mr. Den was the victim’s ex-husband. The two had separated in 2023, and Ms. Wannapha had since moved on, living with her new husband in the rented home for nearly two years. Mr. Den had reportedly made several attempts to reconcile, but his advances were repeatedly rejected. On the night of the incident, it is believed that Mr. Den once again attempted to win her back. When she refused, he allegedly flew into a rage and attacked her with a knife he had brought with him. After fatally stabbing her, he then turned the weapon on himself in a failed suicide attempt. The victim’s current husband, Mr. Sanya, 50, told authorities that he was unaware his partner’s ex-husband had been visiting or making contact. He stated that the couple had a loving relationship and that nothing seemed out of the ordinary in the days leading up to the attack. Rescue workers have transferred the victim’s body to Laem Chabang Hospital for autopsy and storage. Meanwhile, police have stationed officers at Mr. Den’s bedside to prevent any escape attempts as he recovers under medical supervision. Criminal charges are expected once he regains consciousness. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-01.

Knife-Wielding Soldier Faces Legal Action After Approaching Wild Elephant in Khao Yai Park Picture courtesy of Amarin Authorities at Khao Yai National Park have launched legal proceedings against a man who approached a wild elephant while armed with a knife, sparking widespread alarm over the safety of both park visitors and wildlife. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359356-knife-wielding-soldier-faces-legal-action-after-approaching-wild-elephant-in-khao-yai-park/

Picture courtesy of Amarin Authorities at Khao Yai National Park have launched legal proceedings against a man who approached a wild elephant while armed with a knife, sparking widespread alarm over the safety of both park visitors and wildlife. The incident occurred at Thung Khao Khieo in the Hin Tang Subdistrict of Mueang Nakhon Nayok District and came to public attention on 29 April when a video clip showing the man advancing towards the elephant while carrying a large knife went viral on social media. Mr Yosawat Thiansawat, Director of the Protected Area Regional Office 1 in Prachinburi, confirmed the incident and stated that the man’s actions had breached several regulations. Mr Chaiya Huaihongthong, Head of Khao Yai National Park, expressed concern, noting that such behaviour poses serious risks to both humans and animals. The actions contravened two provisions of the National Park Act B.E. 2562 (2019): bringing a weapon into the park, and disobeying instructions from park officials (Sections 19(7) and 20). The incident also violated Articles 4(4) and 8 of the 2020 Department of National Parks’ regulations governing park access. Authorities have identified the offender as Mr Wiriya Phan-ed, a 24-year-old soldier from Amnat Charoen province, currently serving in the 2nd Special Warfare Training Company in Nakhon Ratchasima. It has since emerged that Mr Wiriya is suffering from a mental health condition. His military unit has taken custody of him and is arranging for treatment to prevent any future incidents. On the day of the event, Mr Wiriya was reported to be acting erratically. Dressed in what resembled a military uniform, he entered the park carrying both a knife and a firearm. He reportedly threatened tourists and park staff and advanced dangerously close to a young wild elephant named “Phlai Phupha,” aged around 10, who fortunately remained calm and walked away without incident. Despite ignoring repeated warnings from park officials not to approach the elephant, Mr Wiriya eventually withdrew and fled the scene on a motorbike. Park authorities quickly mobilised forces and set up checkpoints at all park exits in both Prachinburi and Nakhon Ratchasima to track him down. Speaking to the media, Mr Atthaphon Charoenchansa, Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, confirmed, “The suspect is currently under the care of his military unit. We aim to ensure he does not pose a threat to the public or himself in the future,” said Mr Atthaphon. Park authorities have reiterated the dangers of approaching wild elephants. Such animals can react unpredictably if they feel threatened, potentially leading to fatal consequences. Visitors are strongly advised to respect park rules, maintain a safe distance from wildlife, and follow the instructions of park staff at all times. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-01.

UPDATE Three Chinese Nationals Killed as 18-Wheel Truck Slams into SUV at Red Light in Rayong A devastating road cash involving an 18-wheel sand truck and a tourist vehicle claimed the lives of three Chinese nationals and left one seriously injured in the early hours of the morning of 30 April. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359264-road-collision-in-rayong-claims-three-lives-one-injured/#findComment-19769241

UPDATE Three Chinese Nationals Killed as 18-Wheel Truck Slams into SUV at Red Light in Rayong Picture and video from responders. A devastating road cash involving an 18-wheel sand truck and a tourist vehicle claimed the lives of three Chinese nationals and left one seriously injured in the early hours of the morning of 30 April. Police from Klaeng Station in Rayong Province responded to reports of a fatal collision at the Krasae Bon intersection on Highway 344. Upon arrival, emergency personnel from the Phutthasat Songkroh Rescue Association found a white SUV crushed beneath a heavily-loaded lorry. Inside the SUV were four male Chinese nationals. Three were pronounced dead at the scene, while one sustained serious injuries. The force of the collision pushed the SUV more than 50 metres, before the truck came to a stop after crashing into another parked 18-wheel truck by the roadside, which also sustained damage. Rescue workers were forced to deploy cranes and hydraulic cutters to retrieve the victims from the mangled wreckage, a process that took over an hour. Preliminary investigations revealed that the SUV had likely stopped at a red light when the sand-laden truck, travelling at high speed, failed to brake in time. Following the crash, the driver of the offending 18-wheeler fled the scene and has not yet been located. Police are now examining CCTV footage from the intersection and gathering evidence to identify and apprehend the individual. In addition to pursuing charges against the truck driver for reckless driving causing death, authorities also plan to take legal action against the driver of the parked lorry. According to Thai transport regulations, trucks are prohibited from parking along public roads at night unless they are broken down and have visible emergency warning signals in place. Adapted by Asean Now from Thaich8 2025-04-30. ScreenRecording_04-30-2025 10-33-50_1.mp4

Road Collision in Rayong Claims Three Lives, One Injured Picture from responders. A devastating road crash occurred in the early hours of the morning of 30 April, at the intersection of Highway 344 and Krasae Bon traffic lights, inbound towards Klaeng District, Rayong Province. The collision involved two trucks and one sedan vehicle. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359264-road-collision-in-rayong-claims-three-lives-one-injured/

Picture and video from responders. A devastating road crash occurred in the early hours of the morning of 30 April, at the intersection of Highway 344 and Krasae Bon traffic lights, inbound towards Klaeng District, Rayong Province. The collision involved two trucks and one sedan vehicle. According to the initial report the sedan was carrying four male passengers. Upon arrival, emergency responders discovered that three of the individuals were trapped inside the vehicle, which was crushed between the trucks and had succumbed to their injuries at the scene. One male passenger survived with injuries and was promptly transported to a local medical facility for treatment. Emergency teams from the Phutthasart Rescue Foundation and Sawangporn Phetkasem Rescue Unit, along with officers from Klaeng Police Station, responded swiftly to the incident. Their coordinated efforts enabled the extraction of the victims and clearance of the site. The cause of the collision remains under investigation. Authorities are examining CCTV footage and collecting witness statements to determine the sequence of events that led to this fatal incident. The names of the victims have not yet been released pending official identification and notification of next of kin. Adapted by Asean Now from Zoom Rayong 2025-04-30. ScreenRecording_04-30-2025 06-06-04_1.mp4

Two Killed, Young Child Critically Injured in High-Speed Crash in Mae Sot Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A road crash occurred on the morning of 29 April, on the Mae Sot–Umphang highway, Tak, claiming the lives of a 34-year-old woman and an 8-year-old boy, while leaving another young child critically injured. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359263-two-killed-young-child-critically-injured-in-high-speed-crash-in-mae-sot/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A road crash occurred on the morning of 29 April, on the Mae Sot–Umphang highway, Tak, claiming the lives of a 34-year-old woman and an 8-year-old boy, while leaving another young child critically injured. Police from Mae Sot Police Station, led by duty officer Pol. Sub Lt. Papasut Bawonponpat, were alerted to the scene near a petrol station in Ban Huafai, Phra That Phadaeng subdistrict. On arrival, they found a large crowd gathered and two vehicles, a Honda sedan, stuck on a concrete barrier and a motorcycle severely damaged and separated by approximately 60 metres. The victims, identified as Ms. Orapan, 34, and Master Songkran, 8, were pronounced dead at the scene. Both were found lying lifeless on the road. A third child, estimated to be around 4 or 5 years old, was seriously injured and rushed to Mae Sot Hospital for emergency treatment. The collision occurred just before a U-turn point on the busy thoroughfare, an area known to be particularly hazardous due to heavy traffic and limited visibility. Authorities quickly moved to manage traffic in the area to prevent further incidents. The driver of the Honda, 63-year-old Mr. Prayong, remained at the scene and was taken into custody by police. Preliminary investigations suggest that Ms. Orapan had slowed down her motorcycle in the right-hand lane to make a U-turn when the speeding sedan driven by Mr. Prayong struck her from behind. The force of the collision caused both vehicles to be thrown apart violently. Local residents told police the car appeared to be travelling at high speed through the community zone, an area frequented by pedestrians and motorcyclists. There is growing concern over road safety in the region, with many urging stricter enforcement of speed limits and improved signage in community zones. Police have opened a full investigation into the crash to determine the exact cause and will continue to question witnesses and those involved. It is believed that the deceased and injured children were members of the same family. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-04-30. Caution video of CCTV below shows the collision. ScreenRecording_04-29-2025 17-46-41_1.mp4

Krabi Man Found Dead After Being Swarmed by Wild Bees in Palm Plantation Picture courtesy of Amarin A 45-year-old man was found dead and decomposed in a palm plantation after being attacked by a swarm of wild bees during a honey-gathering expedition. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359262-krabi-man-found-dead-after-being-swarmed-by-wild-bees-in-palm-plantation/

Picture courtesy of Amarin A 45-year-old man was found dead and decomposed in a palm plantation after being attacked by a swarm of wild bees during a honey-gathering expedition. Police from Ao Nang Police Station, led by Pol. Lt. Phatsaraporn Leesu, along with forensic officers and a local medical team, responded to a report of a body discovered in Moo 4, Ban Laem Song, Nong Thale subdistrict, Krabi province, at around 15:00 on 29 April. The body, identified as Mr. Prasit Damhai, was discovered in a state of decomposition and is believed to have been dead for 3–4 days. There were no signs of physical assault, but multiple bee stingers were found embedded in the corpse. A black T-shirt, presumed to belong to the deceased, was located nearby with similar stinger marks. Police also found the man’s shoes abandoned along a trail leading into the forest. Around 10 metres from the body, an abandoned hut stood near the scene, possibly where the victim had last taken shelter. The victim’s relatives confirmed his identity and stated they did not suspect foul play. The body was released for religious rites following standard legal procedures. According to family members, Mr. Prasit had left home with a friend on the afternoon of 26 April, telling them he was going to collect wild honey, a routine activity for him. His extended absence did not initially raise concern. His body was eventually discovered by a local villager herding cattle in the area. The victim’s companion told police that they had encountered a large swarm of bees on a tree about 400 metres from where the body was found. Mr. Prasit reportedly attempted to smoke the hive by lighting a fire, which caused the bees to attack. Both men fled in different directions. The friend assumed Mr. Prasit had made it safely back home. Investigators believe the victim was stung by hundreds of bees, suffered a severe allergic reaction and lost consciousness before succumbing to the injuries. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-04-30.

Man Dies After Racing Boat Crashes into Pontoon and Sinks in Nonthaburi Canal Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 51-year-old man drowned after his homemade racing boat crashed into a pontoon and sank in a canal in Nonthaburi Province on the afternoon of 29 April. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359261-man-dies-after-racing-boat-crashes-into-pontoon-and-sinks-in-nonthaburi-canal/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 51-year-old man drowned after his homemade racing boat crashed into a pontoon and sank in a canal in Nonthaburi Province on the afternoon of 29 April. The incident occurred at around 14:00 near the Wat Sa Lee Kho pier in Bang Phlap Subdistrict, Pak Kret District. Police from Pak Kret Police Station responded to the emergency call and coordinated with rescue divers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation to search for the missing man, whose boat sank after a high-speed collision with a private riverside pontoon. At the scene, officials found visible damage to a steel pontoon attached to a local residence and scattered wooden debris believed to be from the racing boat. According to reports, the vessel was a boat designed by the victim himself for competitive racing. He had taken the boat out for a trial run but never returned. Witnesses described the crash as sudden and violent. Mr. Roj, a ferry boat driver who witnessed the crash, said he was in the process of dropping off passengers when he saw the racing boat approach at high speed and collide diagonally with the pontoon. The impact caused the vessel to sink rapidly. “I tried to steer my boat over to help, but it was too late. He and the boat were gone in seconds,” Roj recounted. Mr. Natthawut, the 30-year-old son of the missing man, confirmed that the vessel was a personal project his father had built in preparation for upcoming boat races. “He just wanted to take it out for a spin. It wasn’t a full test run or anything serious,” he said tearfully. CCTV footage from nearby has captured the moment of the collision, showing the boat crashing into the pontoon with considerable force. Investigators suspect the driver may have been knocked unconscious by the impact and drowned as the boat submerged. Rescue teams searched the area for several hours before locating the body. Police have launched a formal investigation and will use CCTV footage and witness statements to determine the full cause of the crash. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-04-30.