Georgealbert

Picture from responders. A grieving mother was left devastated after her 29-year-old son, who had promised to return home to celebrate the New Year, was found dead outside a friend’s house early morning New Years Day. The body of Mr. Suchart 29, was discovered at 07:00 outside a house in Wat Pradu, Amphawa district, Samut Songkhram. The victim had a fatal chest wound and appeared to have collapsed near his Honda Scoopy motorbike, which he had ridden to the scene seeking help. According to Ms. Tipawan 19, who discovered the body, the victim had been at a New Year’s gathering at the house the night before. He had left around 03:00 but returned at approximately 06:00, where he collapsed and died shortly after. Ms. Tipawan recalled: “He came back and sat down, before lying on his side. A few of us approached to check on him, but he passed away moments later.” The victim’s mother arrived at the scene in tears, saying her son, a pork vendor, had told her he would return home on New Year’s Day to celebrate. “I don’t know who would want to kill my son. He had no known enemies,” she said. The mother added that the victim had delivered pork to customers earlier in the day and seemed to have no personal disputes or conflicts. Pol. Lt. Col. Prawit Nanchantee, the investigating officer, stated that the victim’s chest wound appeared to have been caused by a sharp object, but no weapon was found at the scene. Initial reports suggest no immediate conflicts with anyone at the gathering. Authorities are exploring several possible motives, including personal disputes, conflicts with rivals, or tensions arising during the gathering. Over ten people present at the event are being questioned. The body has been sent to the Police General Hospital for an autopsy, while police have reached out to neighbouring Ratchaburi province, given its proximity, for further leads. Maj. Gen. Sompop Kuhawichanun, Chief of Samut Songkhram Provincial Police, assured that all angles are being investigated. “This is a close-knit community where incidents like this are rare. We are committed to uncovering the truth,” he said. -- 2025-01-02

Coach Crash in Surat Thani Leaves Five Dead and Many Injured A coach crash late night on January 1, on Route 41 in Surat Thani province has left five dead and dozens injured. The incident occurred near the Pa We intersection in Chaiya district, where the coach rolled onto its side and crashed into a tree. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347674-coach-crash-in-surat-thani-leaves-five-dead-and-many-injured/

Pictures from responders. A coach crash late night on January 1, on Route 41 in Surat Thani province has left five dead and dozens injured. The incident occurred near the Pa We intersection in Chaiya district, where the coach rolled onto its side and crashed into a tree. The vehicle, a green and white Hino air-conditioned coach with license plate from Nakhon Pathom, was carrying approximately 38 passengers, most of whom were elderly tourists returning from a trip to Betong, Yala province. The group had rented the coach for a chartered journey and was en route to Samut Sakhon. Authorities reported that five passengers were pronounced dead on-site, while 30 others sustained injuries, including three in critical condition. Rescue teams promptly transported the injured to Chaiya and Tha Chang hospitals for treatment. The crash reportedly occurred on a bend in the road. According to the driver, 47-year-old Mr. Suthep, he lost control of the coach and it veered off the road before colliding with a tree. “I was driving back from Betong when the accident happened on a curve. I didn’t realise what had happened until the crash was over,” he said. Local police detained the driver and his assistant for questioning at Chaiya Police Station, as investigations into the cause of the crash continue. The authorities and rescue workers, including the Kusol Sattha Surat Thani Foundation, worked to extract injured passengers from the wreckage. Efforts to locate a missing individual is ongoing, as they may be pinned under the wreckage. -- 2025-01-02

Tourist Confronts Police Over Lantern Release in Chiang Mai During New Year A heated altercation occurred during New Year celebrations in Chiang Mai when a Japanese tourist clashed with police attempting to prevent the release of a sky lantern, a potentially dangerous practice. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347652-tourist-confronts-police-over-lantern-release-in-chiang-mai-during-new-year/

Picture captured from video. A heated altercation occurred during New Year celebrations in Chiang Mai when a Japanese tourist clashed with police attempting to prevent the release of a sky lantern, a potentially dangerous practice. The incident, which took place at 00:30 on January 1, 2025, was captured in a viral video shared by a local Facebook page. The footage shows a group of tourists preparing to release a lantern on Kotchasarn Soi 3, near the city’s Tha Phae Gate. Police Lieutenant Taweesak Wongjai, from Chiang Mai City Police Station, approached the group to stop the activity due to safety concerns. The situation escalated when the tourist, reportedly unhappy with the police intervention, grabbed Lt. Taweesak’s collar and engaged in a brief scuffle. Despite efforts to explain the risks involved, the tourist persisted in trying to release the lantern. Lt. Taweesak ultimately removed the lantern from the tourist’s grasp to prevent any potential harm. The officer’s actions were later praised online, with social media users commending his calm demeanor and highlighting the dangers associated with releasing sky lanterns. Many commenters noted the risk of lanterns causing fires if they landed on homes or other structures. Police Colonel Prachaya Thitla, Chief of Chiang Mai City Police, explained that officers were deployed across key areas to ensure public safety during the New Year festivities. The prohibition of sky lanterns is a precaution to avoid accidents, particularly during crowded celebrations. After the incident, a Japanese interpreter was called to mediate. The tourist eventually apologised to the officer, as did his parents, who arrived at the scene. Lt. Taweesak decided not to press charges, considering it a misunderstanding and opting to issue a verbal warning instead. Authorities stressed the importance of understanding local regulations to avoid similar incidents. While sky lanterns are a cultural tradition in Thailand, their release is strictly regulated in urban areas due to the fire hazard they pose. -- 2025-01-01

Deadly New Year Roads: 215 Deaths in Five Days Thailand’s roads have proven deadly once again during the New Year holiday season, with 215 lives lost just five days into the “10 Dangerous Days” road safety campaign, officials revealed today. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347645-deadly-new-year-roads-215-deaths-in-five-days/

Thailand’s roads have proven deadly once again during the New Year holiday season, with 215 lives lost just five days into the “10 Dangerous Days” road safety campaign, officials revealed today. The statistics were announced by Somsak Thepsuthin, Minister of Public Health and head of the New Year Road Safety Command Centre, during a press briefing at the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. From December 27 to 31, 2024, there were 1,398 road accidents, resulting in 1,354 injuries and 215 fatalities. Motorcycles were involved in the majority of incidents, accounting for 89.93% of crashes. Speeding remained the leading cause (42.75%), followed by drink-driving (24.43%) and reckless overtaking (21.37%). Most incidents occurred on straight roads, with highways under the Department of Highways accounting for 40.84% of incidents, and local village roads for 30.92%. The most dangerous times for road travel were identified as 00:01–01:00, 5:01–6:00 pm, and 18:01–19:00, accounting for 8.02% of incidents. The highest risk group for fatalities and injuries were individuals aged 20–29 years, representing 18.51% of the total. On December 31 alone, 262 incidents were recorded, resulting in 245 injuries and 36 deaths. Chiang Rai reported the highest number of incidents (12) and fatalities (5) on that day, while Chiang Mai saw the highest number of injuries (11). In total, Ayutthaya led with the highest cumulative number of incidents (44), Phuket recorded the most injuries (43), and Bangkok and Nonthaburi shared the highest death toll, each reporting 10 fatalities. However, 11 provinces reported no fatalities. Minister Somsak warned that the risk remains high as millions begin their journeys home following New Year celebrations. Fatigue from insufficient rest after late-night festivities and ongoing celebrations in some areas has been flagged as a significant risk factor. Authorities have responded by setting up 1,781 main checkpoints manned by over 50,000 personnel nationwide to manage traffic, enforce road safety regulations, and reduce congestion. With five days of the campaign remaining, the government continues to push its “Safe Driving, Accident-Free Thailand” initiative to foster a culture of road safety. Related article:Day 4: DDPM Steps Up Road Safety for New Year Festivities: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347584-day-4-ddpm-steps-up-road-safety-for-new-year-festivities/ -- 2025-01-01

Firework Mishap Injures Tourists in Pattaya Picture courtesy of TMN A fireworks incident in Pattaya, during New Year’s Eve celebrations left two persons injured, despite repeated warnings to cease unsafe activities. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347641-firework-mishap-injures-tourists-in-pattaya/

Picture courtesy of TMN A fireworks incident in Pattaya, during New Year’s Eve celebrations left two persons injured, despite repeated warnings to cease unsafe activities. At 22:35 the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Centre in Pattaya received reports of fireworks exploding into crowds near Pratumnak Soi 5 Beach, Pattaya, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi. Rescue volunteers were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, the area was chaotic, with a large number of onlookers observing the aftermath. Two injured individuals were identified: Mr Xiong, a Chinese national, sustained burns and welts across his body and legs from firework debris. Another victim, Ms Thannorn Jaksarn, 42, suffered some burns under her chin. Rescue workers provided first aid before transporting both individuals to hospital for further checks. At the scene, authorities found two discarded boxes of fireworks, one containing 16 discharged fireworks rounds and the other 32 rounds, both suspected to be the source of the explosion. Eyewitnesses reported that the injured parties had been celebrating the New Year on the beach, where a group of foreign nationals was repeatedly lighting fireworks. Despite warnings of concern, group ignored the safety concerns. During one of their attempts, a firework launcher toppled over, causing the firework rounds to scatter indiscriminately in people, sending bystanders scrambling for safety. Authorities are investigating the incident further to determine accountability. -- 2025-01-01

This the CCTV of the incident, courtesy of Matichon. ScreenRecording_01-01-2025 09-58-18_1.mp4

UPDATE Couple Arrested After Property Manager Beaten to Death in Pattaya Bang Lamung police have arrested a married couple after a dispute over rent escalated into a deadly assault that claimed the life of a 53-year-old apartment manager. The incident occurred in Soi 31, Sukhumvit Pattaya, Chonburi, and has shocked the local community. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347617-gang-attacks-man-at-pattaya-apartments-resulting-in-fatality/#findComment-19482928

UPDATE Couple Arrested After Property Manager Beaten to Death in Pattaya Picture captured from CCTV. Bang Lamung police have arrested a married couple after a dispute over rent escalated into a deadly assault that claimed the life of a 53-year-old apartment manager. The incident occurred in Soi 31, Sukhumvit Pattaya, Chonburi, and has shocked the local community. The victim, Mr. Thaworn Watthana, was fatally beaten by a group of over ten men, allegedly summoned by the tenants following a heated argument over rent payments. The altercation stemmed from the manager's demand for the full monthly rent of 2,600 baht, despite an earlier agreement to charge only 1,300 baht for December, as the tenants had moved in mid-month. Police from Bang Lamung Police Station began their investigation immediately after the attack, which occurred in the early hours of December 31. By the afternoon, officers, led by Pol. Col. Navin Sinthurat, Pol. Lt. Col. Kornpong Sukhavisit, and Pol. Capt. Wuttipong Kasa, apprehended the two suspects, identified as Ms. Ratchanu, 46, and Mr. Napat, 36, at a friend's house in Soi 16, Khao Talo, Pattaya. During questioning, Mr. Napat claimed that on the night of the incident, he and his wife were confronted by the victim while leaving to get food. He alleged that the victim, who appeared intoxicated, demanded the full rent, sparking a heated argument. The couple decided to vacate the apartment immediately and contacted acquaintances to help move their belongings. When their associates arrived, tensions flared again, leading to a physical confrontation. Mr. Napat insisted he did not participate in the assault, but police investigations revealed otherwise. Evidence suggested that Mr. Napat and Ms. Ratchanu had indeed summoned their friends, including two individuals identified as Mr. Ek and Mr. Nu, who initiated the attack. Witnesses and evidence indicated that Mr. Napat joined in during the chaos. Police have charged the couple with "jointly causing bodily harm resulting in death" and are actively pursuing the remaining suspects. Authorities have vowed to bring all those involved to justice. -- 2025-01-01

Norwegian Tourist Assaulted by Ride-Hailing Driver in Phuket A Norwegian tourist has filed a police report after being assaulted by a driver from a popular ride-hailing app in Phuket. The incident occurred early on December 30, leaving the victim with many injuries. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347626-norwegian-tourist-assaulted-by-ride-hailing-driver-in-phuket/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A Norwegian tourist has filed a police report after being assaulted by a driver from a popular ride-hailing app in Phuket. The incident occurred early on December 30, leaving the victim with many injuries. Ms. Thanatphon Khongcharoen, 44, escorted her friend, Mr. Egil Christian Andresen, 57, to Karon Police Station to report the attack. According to Mr. Andresen, he was struck with a sign by the driver following a disagreement over the destination. The altercation began around 05:05, when Mr. Andresen booked a ride to his accommodation near Patak Soi 1, approximately one kilometre from the pick-up point in front of a jewellery store. However, the driver allegedly questioned whether he wanted to go to Phuket International Airport instead. Confused and frustrated, Mr. Andresen requested to get out of the vehicle. As he exited, the driver retrieved a sign from nearby and struck Mr. Andresen multiple times. The tourist sustained injuries, including cuts and bruises to his left temple, ear, face, and elbows. Mr. Andresen sought medical treatment and has provided police with evidence, including CCTV footage, to support his claim. Recounting the event, Mr. Andresen expressed his disbelief: “I have been a taxi driver in Norway for over 30 years and have never encountered or caused harm to any passenger. In my country, such behaviour would result in lifetime revocation of a driver’s public transport licence.” Mr. Andresen added that he had visited Phuket several times and had always enjoyed the peaceful surroundings of Karon and the island’s natural beauty. Despite the incident, he remains hopeful that justice will be served. Police are investigating the matter and are working to identify and apprehend the suspect. The case has sparked concerns about passenger safety and the conduct of ride-hailing service drivers in the region. -- 2025-01-01

Fire Engulfs Bang Saen Restaurant After New Year Fireworks Mishap A New Year’s Eve celebration turned into chaos at Bang Saen Beach when fireworks sparked a fire that engulfed a renowned seaside restaurant, forcing panicked locals and tourists to flee. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347620-fire-engulfs-bang-saen-restaurant-after-new-year-fireworks-mishap/

Picture and video from responders. A New Year’s Eve celebration turned into chaos at Bang Saen Beach when fireworks sparked a fire that engulfed a renowned seaside restaurant, forcing panicked locals and tourists to flee. At approximately 00:20 on 1 January, officers from Saensuk Police Station in Chonburi Province received a report of a fire at a restaurant near Wonnapha Beach along Bang Saen’s beachfront road in Saensuk Subdistrict, Mueang District. Fire engines from Saensuk Municipality and neighbouring areas, eight in total, were dispatched to the scene. Firefighters arrived to find the popular restaurant engulfed in flames. The establishment’s thatched roof and wooden decor served as fuel, causing the fire to spread rapidly. It took over 45 minutes for the fire crews to bring the blaze under control, however, the restaurant was severely damaged. Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire was caused by New Year’s countdown fireworks, which landed on the restaurant’s roof. Authorities will collaborate with forensic investigators to gather further evidence and determine the exact cause of the fire. Legal action will follow based on their findings. No injuries were reported, but the incident disrupted the New Year celebrations. -- 2025-01-01 ScreenRecording_01-01-2025 08-14-03_1.mp4

Tragedy on New Year’s Eve: Two Children Drown in Rough Seas New Year’s Eve celebrations turned tragic when two children, aged 8 and 9, drowned at Laem Son Beach in Bang Saphan Noi district, Prachuap Khiri Khan.The incident occurred at approximately 17:00 as the family, who had come to enjoy a holiday outing, witnessed the children being swept away by powerful waves. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347618-tragedy-on-new-year’s-eve-two-children-drown-in-rough-seas/

Gang Attacks Man at Pattaya Apartments, Resulting in Fatality In the early hours of 31 December, at approximately 00:10, authorities in Pattaya were alerted to a violent altercation at an apartment complex on Sukhumvit Soi 31, Naklua, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province. The distress call, received by the Sawang Boriboon Pattaya Rescue Centre, reported an assault that left one man unconscious. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347617-gang-attacks-man-at-pattaya-apartments-resulting-in-fatality/

Picture from responders. New Year’s Eve celebrations turned tragic when two children, aged 8 and 9, drowned at Laem Son Beach in Bang Saphan Noi district, Prachuap Khiri Khan.The incident occurred at approximately 17:00 as the family, who had come to enjoy a holiday outing, witnessed the children being swept away by powerful waves. Police Lieutenant Pawarit Siriwat, Deputy Inspector of Bang Saphan Noi Police Station, confirmed the incident. Rescue teams from Bang Saphan Noi Hospital and the Pak Phraek Subdistrict Administrative Organisation were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, rescuers found tourists attempting to revive the two children. Emergency responders took over, performing CPR before transporting the children to a nearby hospital. Tragically, both children succumbed to their injuries due to the severity of their condition. Preliminary investigations revealed that the children were part of a Myanmar family group of 13 people who had come to the beach for a New Year’s outing. Six children, aged between 5 and 11, had been playing in the shallow water under the supervision of their relatives onshore. Strong waves struck suddenly, pulling the two children, who were in water approximately one metre deep, out to sea. Ms. Susan, 40, an aunt of the children, described the devastating scene, saying she and other family members screamed for help and searched desperately for the children, before pulling them from the water. Despite their efforts and assistance from bystanders, the children could not be saved. Authorities are conducting further investigations into the incident. Police will finalise legal procedures before releasing the bodies to the family. -- 2025-01-01

Picture from responders. In the early hours of 31 December, at approximately 00:10, authorities in Pattaya were alerted to a violent altercation at an apartment complex on Sukhumvit Soi 31, Naklua, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province. The distress call, received by the Sawang Boriboon Pattaya Rescue Centre, reported an assault that left one man unconscious. Upon arrival, emergency responders found a crowd gathered at the scene. Officials secured the area before attempting to save the victim, identified as Mr. Thaworn, aged 53. Despite resuscitation efforts, Mr. Thaworn succumbed to his injuries after being rushed to hospital. According to Mrs. Prapai, 50, the wife of the deceased, the incident began when her husband was collecting monthly rent from tenants. When he reached Room 108, rented by a woman who had moved in on 10 December, a disagreement ensued. As per apartment regulations, tenants are required to pay a full month's rent. However, the female tenant protested, arguing against the rule. Despite Mr. Thaworn's attempts to explain the policy, the argument escalated, and the woman called for reinforcements. Within minutes, two pickup trucks carrying over ten individuals arrived. The group immediately attacked Mr. Thaworn without any discussion. Mrs. Prapai, who tried to intervene, was also struck in the back during the assault. In a heartfelt plea, Mrs. Prapai called on the perpetrators to take responsibility for their actions, vowing to pursue justice to the fullest extent. Police from the Bang Lamung station are investigating the case. Officers are gathering evidence, including witness statements, CCTV footage, and videos recorded by bystanders. -- 2025-01-01

Tuk-tuk Crash in Bangkok Claims One Life, Leaves Three Injured A road crash occurred at 12:35 on December 31, at Bang Son Market Intersection, on the Bangkok-Nonthaburi Road, Bang Sue District, Bangkok. The incident involved a tuk-tuk colliding with a pedestrian before losing control and crashing into a central road barrier. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347605-tuk-tuk-crash-in-bangkok-claims-one-life-leaves-three-injured/

Picture from responders, CCTV below A road crash occurred at 12:35 on December 31, at Bang Son Market Intersection, on the Bangkok-Nonthaburi Road, Bang Sue District, Bangkok. The incident involved a tuk-tuk colliding with a pedestrian before losing control and crashing into a central road barrier. The collision resulted in injuries to four individuals: 1. A male pedestrian, who was critically injured and stopped breathing at the scene. Emergency responders from the ALS (Advanced Life Support) unit at Prachaniwet Station performed CPR before transporting him to Bang Pho Hospital. 2. The male driver of the tuk-tuk sustained injuries. 3. A male passenger and a female passenger, who were also on the tuk-tuk, sustained minor injuries. The injured passengers and the driver were given first aid at the scene and transported to Tao Poon Police Station for further assistance and investigation. Later update reports confirmed that the critically injured pedestrian succumbed to his injuries and passed away at Bang Pho Hospital. Preliminary findings indicate that the tuk-tuk was approaching the junction at speed while attempting a left turn when it collided with a pedestrian crossing the road. The impact caused the pedestrian to be carried along by the vehicle before both were propelled into the concrete barrier, in the centre of the road. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the crash and will prosecute the tuk-tuk as necessary. -- 2025-01-01 Caution video shows the collision. ScreenRecording_12-31-2024 16-32-59_1.mp4

Picture from responders. A car crash in Sai Yok district, Kanchanaburi, claimed the lives of three individuals and left one critically injured after a red Toyota car veered off the road and slammed into a tree. The incident occurred on the evening of 30 December near Wat Thung Kan Yang, Moo 7, Sai Yok sub-district. Officers from Sai Yok Police Station, along with rescue teams from the Khunatham Kanchanaburi Association and the Phithak Karn Foundation, rushed to the scene after receiving reports of the crash. Upon arrival, authorities found the wreckage of a red Toyota car bearing a Nonthaburi registration plate. The car was severely damaged, having collided with a tree after veering off the road. Inside the mangled vehicle, rescuers discovered three deceased victims and one critically injured passenger trapped in the wreckage. Rescue workers used hydraulic tools to extract the injured individual, later identified as Ms. Wanna, 26, who was promptly transported to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. The deceased were identified as Mr. Chanathip, 25, from Nakhon Pathom, who was driving the vehicle; Ms. Suphapatch, 51; and an unidentified elderly woman. Preliminary investigations revealed that the car had been travelling towards Thong Pha Phum district when it collided with a van. The impact caused the driver to lose control, resulting in the car leaving the road and crashing into the tree at high speed. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident. -- 2025-01-01

Three Dead, One Seriously Injured in Car Crash in Kanchanaburi A car crash in Sai Yok district, Kanchanaburi, claimed the lives of three individuals and left one critically injured after a red Toyota car veered off the road and slammed into a tree. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347604-three-dead-one-seriously-injured-in-car-crash-in-kanchanaburi/

Pictures from responders. An incident unfolded in Samut Songkhram, as a stray dog attempting to leap over a metal fence became caught, leaving its testicles trapped in the steel. Local rescue workers acted swiftly to save the distressed animal. On the evening of 30 December, the Sawang Benjatham Foundation rescue team received an urgent call from a resident in Bang Cha Kreng sub-district, Mueang district, reporting a dog trapped on a fence. The scene involved a male mongrel suspended head-down, his testicles wedged between the metal bars of a 1.5-metre-high cement wall with anti-theft spikes. Exhausted and visibly in pain, the dog needed immediate assistance. The rescue operation began with one team member carefully covering the dog’s head with a cloth to prevent panic, while another supported its body to minimise further strain. A third rescuer used hydraulic cutting tools to free the dog. After five minutes, the dog was safely brought down without sustaining any additional injuries. Nattapon Uchaiwan, a volunteer with the foundation, revealed that the dog had been stuck for nearly an hour before help arrived. As the dog was a stray, rescuers took extra precautions during the delicate operation, ensuring it remained calm to avoid further injury. “Had the dog struggled, it could have resulted in severe damage or even the loss of its testicles,” Nattapon added. It is believed the curious stray had entered the property and, upon attempting to jump back out, misjudged the leap, leading to the unfortunate accident. Fortunately, thanks to the swift and skilled intervention of the rescue team, the dog was freed in time and is expected to recover. -- 2025-01-01