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Thailand Boosts National Park Safety with Rescue Training for Park Officers Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) is stepping up its commitment to tourist safety in Thailand’s national parks by launching an intensive rescue training programme for park officers, aimed at preparing personnel to handle all forms of emergencies in mountainous and forested terrain. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363611-thailand-boosts-national-park-safety-with-rescue-training-for-park-officers/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) is stepping up its commitment to tourist safety in Thailand’s national parks by launching an intensive rescue training programme for park officers, aimed at preparing personnel to handle all forms of emergencies in mountainous and forested terrain. Mr. Atthapol Charoenchansa, Director-General of the DNP, announced that the department has initiated a specialised training course titled “Mountain and Forest Search and Rescue” as part of its 2025 safety development strategy. The goal is to build highly skilled, professional rescue teams equipped to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies within national park areas, which are often remote and difficult to access. With tourist numbers rising steadily across Thailand’s national parks, safety has become a top priority. The DNP has recognised the need to upgrade its emergency response capabilities, particularly in ecotourism zones where the terrain can pose significant risks to visitors. “Since 2018, we have been training personnel in emergency response,” said Mr. Atthapol. “However, evolving techniques and increasing visitor demands mean we must continuously enhance the skills and readiness of our staff.” The training programme, designed with both rigour and realism, is divided into two key components: • Theoretical training (10 hours) covering essential topics such as map reading, GPS navigation, advanced first aid, safe evacuation methods, rescue equipment usage, and inter-agency coordination. • Practical field training (30 hours) focused on hands-on experience in simulated wilderness conditions to prepare participants for real-life scenarios. Two sessions of the programme are being held this year, with over 80 participants in total. • The first session took place from 19–23 May 2025 at Lan Sang National Park, Tak province. • The second was just completed from 9–13 June 2025 at Hat Wanakon National Park, Prachuap Khiri Khan province. The initiative aligns with Thailand’s 20-Year National Strategy and the 12th National Economic and Social Development Plan, aiming to elevate Thailand’s ecotourism safety standards to international levels. “This is a vital step in assuring both Thai and international tourists that when they explore our natural parks, they will be protected by trained, capable professionals,” Mr. Atthapol added. “Improved safety will not only increase visitor confidence but also enhance the global reputation of Thai ecotourism.” The DNP’s proactive measures are part of a broader effort to ensure that Thailand remains a safe and attractive destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-14

Charred Body of Man Found Under House in Chiang Rai Picture courtesy of Amarin Police in Chiang Rai province have launched an investigation into the mysterious death of a man whose charred remains were discovered under a stilted wooden house in the Wiang Pa Pao district early morning on 13 June. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363610-charred-body-of-man-found-under-house-in-chiang-rai/

Picture courtesy of Amarin Police in Chiang Rai province have launched an investigation into the mysterious death of a man whose charred remains were discovered under a stilted wooden house in the Wiang Pa Pao district early morning on 13 June. The body of Mr. Somsak Sriwichaiwong, 48, was found burned beneath a home in Ban Pa Chan Village 7, Wiang Kalong Subdistrict. The gruesome discovery was reported at around 04:00 by the property’s owner, a man known locally as “Mr. Mueang,” who claimed he awoke to find the remains under his house after a night of drinking with the deceased and two other men. Authorities from the Mae Chai Police Station, forensic officers and medical personnel from Wiang Pa Pao Hospital responded to the scene, where they found significant evidence of a fire beneath the house. Charred wood, ashes and nearby firewood were observed near a wooden platform and stone table. A red rice container and plastic food bag were also found near the scene, reportedly left by the homeowner’s daughter the previous evening. The deceased was identified by residents as Mr. Somsak, a visitor from Ban Pa Ngae, located two villages away. He had reportedly spent the evening drinking with Mr. Mueang, Mr. Aod and Mr. La, all men from the same village and in their 40s. According to police, the body was found badly charred, with only the head and legs remaining intact. Village headman Mr. Santhanarong Veerachart told reporters that Mr. Mueang appeared intoxicated when he approached him before dawn to report the body. “He said he woke up and found someone burned to death under the house. It was still dark, so I told him we’d look into it in the morning,” the headman explained. At around 07:00 the headman accompanied others to the house and confirmed the presence of the severely burned body beneath the raised structure. Police were immediately notified and arrived to cordon off the area. Initial investigations reveal that the four men had been drinking beneath the house the night before. When questioned, Mr. Mueang claimed he had no knowledge of how the fire started or how Mr. Somsak came to be burned. The two other men, Mr. Aod and Mr. La, had returned home by morning but were later brought in for questioning. None of the three men had confessed to any wrongdoing. Police have confirmed the case is being treated as suspicious and have not ruled out foul play. The body has been transferred to Chiang Rai Prachanukroh Hospital for examination, while investigators continue to gather forensic evidence and interview potential witnesses. Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward as the investigation continues. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-06-14

Cement Truck Crushes Two Girls Outside Petrol Station in Prachinburi Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A road crash claimed the life of an 18-year-old girl and left another critically injured after a 22-wheeled cement truck struck and ran over a motorcycle outside a petrol station in Kabin Buri district. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363609-cement-truck-crushes-two-girls-outside-petrol-station-in-prachinburi/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A road crash claimed the life of an 18-year-old girl and left another critically injured after a 22-wheeled cement truck struck and ran over a motorcycle outside a petrol station in Kabin Buri district. The incident occurred at approximately 12:30 on 13 June, on Suwannason Road near a PTT petrol station in the Mueang Kao subdistrict. According to police reports, the driver of the truck was attempting to turn into the station to use the restroom when the vehicle collided with a Honda Wave 100 motorcycle carrying two young women. Emergency services, including rescue workers from the Sajja Phutthatham Foundation and forensic medical staff from Kabin Buri Hospital, arrived at the scene promptly. The truck’s front left wheel had crushed the motorcycle and the two passengers beneath it. Rescue crews worked for over 30 minutes using hydraulic cutting tools to free the victims. Ms Pichaya, 18, who had been riding pillion, was found alive but severely injured. She was rushed to Kabin Buri Hospital in critical condition. The motorbike’s rider, Ms Chularat Chankaeo, also 18, was found with no detectable pulse and unresponsive. Despite attempts to resuscitate her at the scene, she succumbed to her injuries before reaching hospital. Warning video contains images of the collision. The lorry driver, identified only as Mr Nat, told investigators he had been travelling from Sa Kaeo province and was unaware he had struck a motorcycle until he noticed something was amiss and stopped to check. “I was shocked when I saw what had happened. I never thought something like this would occur,” he reportedly told police. Police have since escorted Mr Nat for formal questioning and are continuing their investigation. The body of the deceased has been sent to Kabin Buri Hospital. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-14

Mangosteen Orchard Owner Found Dead in Tree Picture courtesy of Amarin A 50-year-old woman was found dead hanging in a mangosteen tree in Chanthaburi province, a day after she is believed to have lost consciousness while harvesting fruit alone. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363607-mangosteen-orchard-owner-found-dead-in-tree/

Picture courtesy of Amarin A 50-year-old woman was found dead hanging in a mangosteen tree in Chanthaburi province, a day after she is believed to have lost consciousness while harvesting fruit alone. Rescue officials from the Sawang Katanyu Foundation were called to the scene at 07:00 on the morning of 13 June, following reports of a deceased person found in a tree near Soi 14, Ban Hin Loi, Chak Thai Subdistrict, close to Wat Map Choen in the Khao Khitchakut district. Upon arrival, responders discovered the woman’s body suspended approximately 4–5 metres above ground in a mangosteen tree roughly 10 metres tall. The deceased was later identified as Ms. Termchan, the owner of a local orchard. The woman was found with a fruit-carrying sling bag made from a fertiliser sack looped around her neck and caught on a branch, causing her body to remain suspended. Investigators noted that she had been carrying two such bags, one had fallen to the ground full of mangosteens, while the other remained attached, with its weight likely contributing to the entanglement. Authorities suspect that the woman may have fainted or slipped while harvesting the fruit. She was known to suffer from frequent dizzy spells but often insisted on collecting mangosteens by herself. After documenting the scene, rescuers carefully brought the body down from the tree. The woman’s daughter, who discovered the body, told reporters that she had been working late and assumed her mother had gone to bed. However, she noticed the harvested mangosteens were still at home and the car had not moved. She began searching and eventually found a fallen bag of fruit beneath the tree. Looking up, she was devastated to see her mother’s lifeless body still entangled above. Authorities believe the death was accidental, though an autopsy will be conducted to confirm the cause. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-06-14

Pattaya to Host “CPR on The Beach” Initiative to Bolster Emergency Response Picture courtesy of Pattaya City Hall Pattaya City is joining forces with the National Institute for Emergency Medicine (NIEM) to roll out the “CPR on The Beach” campaign, aiming to enhance emergency medical services and boost investor and tourist confidence in one of Thailand’s key economic zones. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363606-pattaya-to-host-“cpr-on-the-beach”-initiative-to-bolster-emergency-response/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya City Hall Pattaya City is joining forces with the National Institute for Emergency Medicine (NIEM) to roll out the “CPR on The Beach” campaign, aiming to enhance emergency medical services and boost investor and tourist confidence in one of Thailand’s key economic zones. At a meeting held at Pattaya City Hall on the morning of 13 June, Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet welcomed NIEM Deputy Secretary-General Paisan Konchampa and his delegation to discuss a strategic partnership. The initiative centres on improving emergency preparedness across the city, particularly in high-traffic beach areas popular with both domestic and international visitors. The NIEM emphasised Pattaya’s status as a global tourist hub and a designated area under the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) development programme. Given its international profile, ensuring the safety of residents and visitors alike is seen as vital to maintaining and expanding the city’s appeal. The “CPR on The Beach” programme will offer comprehensive first-aid and emergency response training to community members and local tourism operators. Participants will learn how to report emergencies, administer basic life support and monitor hazardous situations. Selected tourist hotspots will undergo training and assessments with the goal of being certified as “Safe Communities” under NIEM standards. In addition, the project will help expand Pattaya’s community emergency volunteer network and support wider safety campaigns ahead of major tourism events. The initiative will also capitalise on existing infrastructure, including the helicopter landing pad on Koh Larn, which will be integrated into emergency evacuation and response operations. Mayor Ngampichet reaffirmed the city’s commitment to public safety, stating: “Pattaya has always prioritised the wellbeing of both its citizens and visitors. We welcome collaboration with all agencies that strengthen our emergency capabilities.” He assigned the director of Pattaya City Hospital, Police Lieutenant Colonel Pornpana Chokthai, to lead coordination efforts and called for a joint planning session with all relevant bodies to ensure seamless execution of the campaign. The “CPR on The Beach” programme is seen as a proactive step in transforming Pattaya into a model city for safety and readiness, reinforcing its position as a global destination. Adapted by Asean Now from Pattaya City Hall 2025-06-14

UPDATE Father of Gunman Claims Son Acted in Defence During Restaurant Shooting Picture courtesy of Matichon. The father of a 28-year-old man who opened fire inside a Bangkok restaurant has spoken out, insisting that his son is a calm and respectful individual who only fired his weapon to protect him during a dispute over a public auction. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363506-gunfire-erupts-during-restaurant-brawl-in-bangkok’s-bang-khen-district/#findComment-19870079

UPDATE Father of Gunman Claims Son Acted in Defence During Restaurant Shooting Picture courtesy of Matichon. The father of a 28-year-old man who opened fire inside a Bangkok restaurant has spoken out, insisting that his son is a calm and respectful individual who only fired his weapon to protect him during a dispute over a public auction. Mr Phisek, also known as “O”, handed himself in to investigators at Bang Khen Police Station following the shooting, which left one man injured. The incident occurred at a restaurant on Phahon Yothin Road in Bangkok’s Bang Khen district. The suspect surrendered along with a 9mm pistol, a single round of ammunition, a black gun holster and a black shoulder bag. Police are charging Mr Phisek with attempted murder, illegal possession of a firearm registered to another person and carrying a weapon in public without a licence. Investigators have opposed bail, citing the seriousness of the offence and the use of a firearm in a public setting. The suspect was transferred to the Criminal Court on Ratchadaphisek Road at around 12:20 on 13 June, to be remanded in custody. As he was being escorted onto the prisoner transport vehicle, Mr Phisek remained silent when asked by reporters about the motive behind the shooting and whether it was linked to alleged collusion in a government auction. Speaking to the press, Mr Natthaphat, 68, Mr Phisek’s father, stated that he had won a bid for a government demolition project involving an old revenue office building. He declined to provide further details about the auction itself but explained that the altercation occurred when the injured party and his associates invited him and his son to dine at the restaurant. According to Mr Natthaphat, the injured man demanded a share of the auction proceeds despite not winning the bid. A heated argument ensued, during which the injured party allegedly forced other guests out of the room and demanded a private conversation with Mr Natthaphat. Mr Natthaphat claimed he tried to de-escalate the situation and suggested continuing the discussion outside, but negotiations failed. Upon returning to the restaurant, he alleged that the injured man brandished a firearm tucked into his waistband and physically assaulted him by grabbing him by the neck, leaving visible red marks. The man then allegedly drew his weapon, prompting Mr Phisek to fire his gun in what his father described as an act of self-defence. Following the shooting, Mr Phisek was reportedly attacked and beaten by associates of the injured man. “My son is a very calm person, always respectful to others. He greets everyone politely,” Mr Natthaphat said. “He acted only to protect me when he saw I was in danger.” Pol Col Anan Warasart, Superintendent of Bang Khen Police Station, said that Mr Phisek’s claim of self-defence would be investigated. Authorities are currently reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses to determine whether the events unfolded as described. If it is established that the injured party initiated the violence and brandished a firearm first, he too will face legal action. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-14

Massive Fire Guts Store in Udon Thani, Causing Damage Exceeding 50 Million Baht Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A devastating fire tore through a three-storey plastic kitchenware and furniture store in the heart of Udon Thani on the night of 13 June, causing damages estimated at more than 50 million baht. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363604-massive-fire-guts-store-in-udon-thani-causing-damage-exceeding-50-million-baht/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A devastating fire tore through a three-storey plastic kitchenware and furniture store in the heart of Udon Thani on the night of 13 June, causing damages estimated at more than 50 million baht. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported. The incident occurred at approximately 21:30 along the Udon Thani-Nong Bua Lamphu ring road, within Udon Thani municipality. Police Lieutenant Colonel Phao Saengkongphlee from Mueang Udon Thani Police Station received the emergency call and quickly coordinated with multiple firefighting units from the municipal authorities of Udon Thani, Nong Samrong and Udon Thani International Airport. Udon Thani Governor Rachan Sunhua, along with Udon Thani Mayor Kittikorn Teekathananon, senior police officials, and rescue volunteers from the Udon Sawang Methatham Foundation, were present at the scene as emergency crews battled the inferno. The fire engulfed three commercial units used for storing and selling plastic kitchen goods and furniture. Firefighters deployed multiple fire engines to control the flames, which spread rapidly due to the highly flammable nature of the plastic products. The structure also served as a warehouse, further fuelling the blaze. Four vehicles, including a six-wheeled truck and several pickup trucks, parked in and around the premises were also consumed by the fire. The road was cordoned off, and emergency crews worked to contain the fire for several hours. Heavy rainfall aided efforts to bring the flames under control. The shop owner, Mr Silchai, also 50, stated that the store, which opened in 2005, was closed for the night and no staff were staying inside. Four employees, including himself, live in a nearby residence. He was driving home when he received a call from staff reporting the blaze. He confirmed that around 40 million baht’s worth of stock was inside the premises, with the total damage, including the building and vehicles, estimated at around 50 million baht. Udon Thani Governor Rachan said an environmental team was dispatched to assess potential impacts on the surrounding area. Fortunately, no homes are located close to the fire site, but residents experiencing irritation from smoke or fumes were urged to report it to authorities. Preliminary investigations suggest the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit. Forensic officials will conduct a detailed examination to confirm the exact cause. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-14

Fugitive Found Dead in Well After Stabbing Ex-Girlfriend Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 40-year-old man wanted for the attempted murder of his former girlfriend has been found dead in a deep groundwater well outside a relative’s home in Trang province. Police believe he took his own life while on the run from authorities. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363603-fugitive-found-dead-in-well-after-stabbing-ex-girlfriend/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 40-year-old man wanted for the attempted murder of his former girlfriend has been found dead in a deep groundwater well outside a relative’s home in Trang province. Police believe he took his own life while on the run from authorities. The deceased, identified as Mr. Somporn, a local clothing vendor, had been missing for nearly a week following a knife attack on Ms. Siriporn, 38, his ex-girlfriend and hospital employee. The attack, which took place in a car park at her workplace, left the woman with three stab wounds to her back. The motive is believed to be jealousy, as the couple had recently separated. At approximately 18:30 on 12 June, officers from Muang Trang Police Station were alerted to a foul odour emanating from a groundwater well in Moo 4, Ban Khok Mai Phai, Nabinla Subdistrict. The well is several approximately 20 metres deep and located at the home of the deceased’s uncle. Upon arrival, police and forensic investigators, along with rescue personnel and a medical examiner from Trang Hospital, recovered the body of Mr. Somporn, which was found floating inside the well. His phone and sandals were discovered near the well’s edge. The body was in an advanced state of decomposition, with maggots visible and a strong stench present. It is believed he had been dead for at least six days. The stabbing occurred on 6 June, when Ms. Siriporn was reportedly moving her motorbike at the hospital car park. Witnesses say Mr. Somporn suddenly approached from behind and stabbed her three times. He then fled the scene on a motorbike. Police quickly identified Mr. Somporn as the prime suspect and sought a warrant for his arrest from the Trang Provincial Court. Efforts to locate him were unsuccessful, with both police and family members appealing for him to surrender. His disappearance prompted a wide manhunt in the area. Following the discovery of his body, police initially suspect suicide, reasoning that Mr. Somporn may have jumped into the well shortly after the attack to escape prosecution and responsibility for his actions. However, to determine the exact cause of death, the body has been sent for forensic examination at Songklanagarind Hospital in Hat Yai, Songkhla province. Ms. Siriporn is currently recovering from her injuries, and police have confirmed that investigations into the full circumstances of the case are ongoing. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-14

Illegal Cosmetic Factory Busted in Nonthaburi Supplying Spa Products Nationwide Picture courtesy of Naewna In a crackdown, the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) under the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), in cooperation with the Nonthaburi Provincial Public Health Office, raided an illegal cosmetics production site operating out of a private residence. The illicit operation was producing spa products under the brand Lady Flower Herbal & Spa, which were widely distributed to massage and spa shops across Thailand. Authorities seized over 776,000 items with an estimated market value of 1.5 million baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363601-illegal-cosmetic-factory-busted-in-nonthaburi-supplying-spa-products-nationwide/

Picture courtesy of Naewna In a crackdown, the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD) under the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), in cooperation with the Nonthaburi Provincial Public Health Office, raided an illegal cosmetics production site operating out of a private residence. The illicit operation was producing spa products under the brand Lady Flower Herbal & Spa, which were widely distributed to massage and spa shops across Thailand. Authorities seized over 776,000 items with an estimated market value of 1.5 million baht. Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Bhuridej, Commissioner of the CIB, assigned Pol. Maj. Gen. Pattanasak Buppasuwan, commander of the CPPD, along with senior officers and Dr. Paripon Julajerm, the provincial public health chief, to lead the operation. The raid followed a tip-off from the local health office that cosmetics were being illegally produced and distributed under popular branding to shops and retailers nationwide. On 12 June, officials executed a search warrant at a residential property in Moo 1, Phimonrat Subdistrict, Bang Bua Thong District, Nonthaburi Province. The homeowner, a 46-year-old man identified only as Mr. Montree, was present as officers discovered workers hand-filling bottles with cosmetic products intended for distribution. Items Seized in the Raid: • Finished cosmetic products (e.g., massage oils, coconut oil, herbal scrubs, facial cleansers): 2,378 items across 22 product types • Raw materials (including oils, herbal powders, fragrances): 202 items across 47 types • Packaging and equipment (bottles, jars, lids, labels, heat sealers, printing machines): over 773,000 items across 142 categories The suspect had previously worked as a sales representative for a well-known cosmetics company before establishing his own unregistered production business in 1982. Although the Lady Flower brand was officially registered, the production had expanded beyond the approved facility due to increasing demand. The operation had since moved to an unapproved location with unsanitary conditions, violating several laws. Investigations revealed that the raw cosmetic mixtures were purchased in bulk from a manufacturer in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan and delivered in 200-litre containers. Fragrance concentrates were sourced from a chemical supplier in Pathumwan, Bangkok. The products were then mixed, packaged, labeled and sold to middlemen and beauty shops nationwide at wholesale prices ranging from 70 to 300 baht per unit. Packaging materials were procured from vendors in Pom Prap Sattru Phai, while printed labels were ordered from a printing company in Bang Khen. Workers were employed to manually fill and label the products for sale. Authorities have pressed charges under the Cosmetics Act B.E. 2558 (2015) for producing counterfeit cosmetics and falsely labeling the manufacturing source. The offence carries a maximum penalty of 1 year in prison and/or a fine of up to 100,000 baht. Additional charges were filed under the Herbal Product Act B.E. 2562 (2019) for unauthorized herbal product manufacturing, which could result in up to 3 years in prison and/or a fine of up to 300,000 baht. Failure to register herbal formulas also carries an additional penalty. Dr. Paripon Julajerm urged all cosmetic producers to strictly comply with legal requirements, noting that failure to obtain proper licensing and use of incorrect labels would lead to prosecution. He advised consumers to purchase only labeled products in Thai with complete registration numbers and details. Suspicions about illegal cosmetics can be reported to the FDA hotline at 1556 or the Consumer Protection Division of the Nonthaburi Public Health Office. Pol. Maj. Gen. Pattanasak warned consumers to be wary of cosmetic products sold at unusually low prices, particularly those marketed online. He emphasized the importance of verifying product registration numbers before use to avoid counterfeit or harmful items that could cause allergic reactions or health risks. Sellers found distributing illegal cosmetics will face full legal action. The public is encouraged to report violations via the CPPD hotline 1135 or through the Consumer Protection Police AlertFacebook page, available 24/7. Adapted by Asean Now from Naewna 2025-06-14

Lightning Strike Kills Former Village Headman in Nakhon Phanom Rice Field Picture courtesy of Naewna. A former village headman known for his hard work and dedication has died after being struck by lightning while working in a rice field in Nakhon Phanom province. The victim, Mr Samanuk Wangkratat, 69, was preparing to mount his motorcycle to return home when he was fatally hit, with authorities suspecting that a sickle slung across his back may have acted as a conductor. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363600-lightning-strike-kills-former-village-headman-in-nakhon-phanom-rice-field/

Picture courtesy of Naewna. A former village headman known for his hard work and dedication has died after being struck by lightning while working in a rice field in Nakhon Phanom province. The victim, Mr Samanuk Wangkratat, 69, was preparing to mount his motorcycle to return home when he was fatally hit, with authorities suspecting that a sickle slung across his back may have acted as a conductor. The incident occurred on the afternoon of 12 June in the rice fields of Ban Nong Lat Khwai, Moo 7, Phon Thong subdistrict, Renunakhon district. The deceased had gone out to cut grass to feed his seven cattle, a daily chore in his retirement. His body was discovered beside his motorcycle. Mr Samanuk, who had served as village headman of Ban Renu, was well respected in the community for his commitment to public service and continued to work diligently even after retirement. Mr Rangsarn Buasai, 64, a local councillor and long-time friend, said that Mr Samanuk had remained active in community affairs after stepping down from his post, including serving as an adviser to the former mayor of Renu subdistrict. “He was always dedicated to his duties,” Mr Rangsarn said. “Even after leaving office, he continued to farm and care for his livestock with unwavering energy.” Mr Ratchawanlop Yuwaratkaenprachan, 53, Mr Samanuk’s younger brother, confirmed that his brother had left home with his usual tools, a hoe, a grass cutter and a sickle, to tend to his field located approximately seven kilometres away in a neighbouring village. During his return, heavy thunderstorms swept across the district. Mr Veerasak Sopha, 38, son of the Phon Thong village headman, was among the first to discover the body. He and his younger brother had been spraying herbicide in a nearby field when they heard a loud thunderclap. “Lightning is common in this area,” he said, “so we thought nothing of it. But when the rain eased, we spotted Mr Samanuk lying motionless in the path and rushed over. We realised he had likely been struck and immediately notified rescue services.” Mr Chaiya Misong-on, 23, a rescue volunteer with Renunakhon Emergency Services, responded to the call. “We found Mr Samanuk lying next to his motorcycle,” he said. “He was wearing a long-sleeved white shirt and black shorts. His pulse was faint, and we began CPR, but sadly his vital signs gradually faded. A medical examination revealed a small abrasion on his upper right back, and a sickle was still strapped to his back” His 71-year-old sister, Mrs Homphit Sripatumwong, described her brother as industrious and beloved in the community. “He was deeply committed to his work, whether in office or in the fields,” she said. “The lightning likely struck the sickle on his back. On that day, his wife was away visiting their children in Bangkok.” Adapted by Asean Now from Naewna 2025-06-14

Fugitive Accountant Arrested for Embezzling Over 4 Million Baht from Employer Picture courtesy of Naewna. An ex-employee accused of embezzling over 4 million baht from her former company has been arrested by the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) of The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB). The suspect, 42-year-old Ms Lakkhana, was apprehended at a university food court in Bangkok’s Prawet district. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363598-fugitive-accountant-arrested-for-embezzling-over-4-million-baht-from-employer/

Picture courtesy of Naewna. An ex-employee accused of embezzling over 4 million baht from her former company has been arrested by the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) of The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB). The suspect, 42-year-old Ms Lakkhana, was apprehended at a university food court in Bangkok’s Prawet district. The arrest follows a warrant issued by the Phra Khanong Criminal Court on 4 June 2025. Ms Lakkhana faces three separate charges of fraud and forgery relating to falsified financial documents and the illegal transfer of company funds. She had been on the run for several years. According to police reports, Ms Lakkhana worked as an accounts officer at a private firm between 2013 and 30 September 2020. Her responsibilities included handling contractor deposits and overseeing other company disbursements. After her resignation, the company conducted a routine audit and uncovered irregularities in financial transactions. Investigators discovered that large sums had been fraudulently transferred to the bank account of a man named Mr Kanchanat, who had no contractual ties to the company. Further examination revealed that Ms Lakkhana had fabricated billing documents, altered payment schedules and forged contractor agreements. These documents were presented to company executives for approval, resulting in unauthorised payouts totalling 4 million baht. The fraud was eventually exposed and reported to Phra Khanong police station, which initiated legal proceedings and secured the court-issued arrest warrants. Upon learning that the suspect was frequenting a university food court in Prawet, officers from the CSD’s Fifth Sub-Division devised a plan to apprehend her. She was arrested without incident. During questioning, Ms Lakkhana denied all charges. However, background checks revealed that she is wanted in several other fraud-related cases, with multiple outstanding arrest warrants. She is currently in custody and has been handed over to investigators at Phra Khanong police station for further legal proceedings. Adapted by Asean Now from Naewna 2025-06-14

Police Launch “Safe Taxi” Initiative to Boost Tourist Confidence and Service Standards Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Tourist Police Bureau, in partnership with the Department of Tourism, has officially launched the “Safe Taxi” training programme to improve safety, service standards and public confidence among international and domestic tourists travelling by taxi. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363597-police-launches-“safe-taxi”-initiative-to-boost-tourist-confidence-and-service-standards/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Tourist Police Bureau, in partnership with the Department of Tourism, has officially launched the “Safe Taxi” training programme to improve safety, service standards and public confidence among international and domestic tourists travelling by taxi. The training session took place at the Tourist Police Headquarters in Samut Prakan province and was presided over by Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phuak-am, Commissioner of the Tourist Police Bureau. He was joined by senior officers including Pol. Col. Milin Pearnchang, Superintendent of Division 1, and Pol. Lt. Col. Torlarp Tinamat, Chief of Pattaya Tourist Police. The event also welcomed Mr. Jaturon Phakdeewanit, Director-General of the Department of Tourism, who delivered a special lecture to participants. A total of 120 taxi drivers took part in the session, receiving guidance from expert lecturers across multiple fields. The initiative is part of a broader campaign to promote professionalism, reduce complaints and create a trustworthy transport network, particularly in high-traffic tourist zones like Bangkok, Suvarnabhumi Airport, and Don Mueang. Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira emphasised that the training is designed to equip drivers with the knowledge and mindset of a “professional taxi operator”, capable of delivering safe and reliable service to tourists. By doing so, the project seeks to reduce the number of complaints associated with public taxi services and support the national goal of enhancing tourist safety. “Taxis are often the first point of contact for many visitors. This programme not only improves safety but also represents a key strategy for strengthening Thailand’s tourism image,” he said. In a tangible step towards building trust, each participating taxi received a TPB App and Tourist Police 1155 hotline sticker to display prominently. These labels help inform passengers how to seek assistance or report incidents quickly, further integrating drivers into the broader tourist safety network. The project falls under the jurisdiction of Tourist Police Division 1, which is responsible for Bangkok and key gateway locations. Authorities say the trained drivers will now serve as part of a community-based support network, capable of assisting travellers in real-time and collaborating with the Tourist Police when needed. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-14

Gunfire Erupts in Northern Thai Forest as Military Clashes with Drug Caravan – 3 Killed Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A violent clash erupted along the Thai-Myanmar border early on the morning of 13 June, when soldiers from the Pha Muang Task Force encountered an armed drug trafficking group in the forested hills of Fang district, Chiang Mai province. The confrontation resulted in the deaths of three suspected traffickers and the seizure of multiple sacks of narcotics. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363595-gunfire-erupts-in-northern-thai-forest-as-military-clashes-with-drug-caravan-–-3-killed/