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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

Stray Dog Rescued After Testicles Caught on Metal Fence 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. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347603-stray-dog-rescued-after-testicles-caught-on-metal-fence/

Three Tourists Rescued After Being Swept Out to Sea by Strong Currents in Khanom Three tourists, including one Thai national and two foreigners, were rescued after being pulled out to sea by strong waves while swimming at Tal Khu Beach in Khanom District, Nakhon Si Thammarat. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347602-three-tourists-rescued-after-being-swept-out-to-sea-by-strong-currents-in-khanom/

Picture from bystanders. Three tourists, including one Thai national and two foreigners, were rescued after being pulled out to sea by strong waves while swimming at Tal Khu Beach in Khanom District, Nakhon Si Thammarat. The incident occurred on the evening of 30 December when the tourists ventured into the water despite rough sea conditions. Strong currents swept the group several dozen metres from shore, leaving them struggling against large waves. Emergency responders from the Khanom Subdistrict Municipality’s Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Unit and local rescue teams deployed a jet ski to reach the victims. Despite the challenging conditions, all three were successfully brought back to shore. The victims, a 41-year-old Thai national and two foreign tourists, were found in a state of shock and exhaustion. Initial first aid was provided on-site before two of the tourists, were transported to Khanom Hospital for further medical evaluation. The third tourist declined hospital treatment. Tal Khu Beach is a popular tourist destination, particularly during the New Year holiday season. However, strong winds and rough seas have been reported in the area due to prevailing weather conditions. The Southern Meteorological Department has issued a warning for severe weather in the Gulf of Thailand, caused by a high-pressure system from China and a strengthened northeast monsoon. These conditions are creating heavy rainfall in parts of southern Thailand and rough seas with strong waves. Authorities are urging tourists to exercise caution when swimming during these hazardous conditions to ensure their safety. -- 2025-01-01

UPDATE Picture from responders. The body of a South Korean man who went missing following a long-tail boat accident off Koh Phangan has been recovered. At 11:30 on 31 December, Koh Phangan Police Station’s communication centre received a report of a body floating in the sea near the Haad Rin Queen Pier in Ban Tai subdistrict, Surat Thani province. The discovery was immediately reported to Pol. Col. Panya Niratimanon, Superintendent of Koh Phangan Police Station. Investigators, including Pol. Lt. Col. Kiatkajorn Amloy and medical staff from Koh Phangan Hospital, were dispatched to the scene along with volunteers from the Kusol Sattha Foundation. The body was found approximately 500 metres from the shore, floating face down in the water. The man was wearing a patterned shirt and black shorts. Rescue volunteers recovered the body and brought it ashore for examination by medical officials. Initial identification confirmed the deceased as Mr Jin Yoon, a 30-year-old South Korean national. He had been missing since the early hours of 29 December, when a long-tail boat capsized in Haad Rin Bay. The body has been transferred to the Kusol Sattha Foundation’s facility while authorities contact the victim’s relatives and proceed with further arrangements. Related article. https://aseannow.com/topic/1347469-tourist-boat-capsizes-off-koh-phangan-korean-national-missing/ -- 2025-01-01

UPDATE Body of South Korean Man Found After Long-Tail Boat Incident off Koh Phangan The body of a South Korean man who went missing following a long-tail boat accident off Koh Phangan has been recovered. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347600-body-of-south-korean-man-found-after-long-tail-boat-incident-off-koh-phangan/

Pictures courtesy of Customs. Authorities in Mukdahan have arrested a 54-year-old tour bus driver for smuggling counterfeit goods and illegal e-cigarettes worth an estimated ฿30 million. The arrest took place on the evening of 30 December, near the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge II immigration checkpoint. The suspect, identified as Mr Non Chimma, a resident of Nong Bua district, Nakhon Sawan, was apprehended while waiting to pick up a group of Vietnamese tourists. The single-deck blue tour bus, operated by a prominent Bangkok-based tour company, was parked approximately 100 metres from the immigration checkpoint when it was searched. Security officers discovered 40 boxes of e-cigarettes, along with counterfeit branded clothing, false eyelashes, and nail tools. The illicit goods were hidden in a secret compartment beneath the bus, cleverly camouflaged by the vehicle’s cooling system to evade detection. The counterfeit clothing, packed in black plastic bags, was labelled with the sender and recipient’s details, indicating a well-organised smuggling operation. During questioning, Mr Non denied any knowledge of the goods, claiming they belonged to the Vietnamese tourists he was scheduled to transport. Despite his denial, security personnel handed over the seized items to Mukdahan Customs Office for further inspection and inventory. Mr Non has been taken into custody and transferred to the Muang Mukdahan Police Station, where he faces legal charges related to smuggling and intellectual property violations. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the case, which highlights ongoing efforts to crack down on the illegal transport of counterfeit and untaxed goods across Thailand’s borders. -- 2025-01-01