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UPDATE 62 Confirmed Dead, 2 Rescued in Jeju Air Plane Crash in South Korea The plane crash at Muan International Airport in South Korea’s South Jeolla Province has left 62 people dead, with the death toll expected to rise. The Jeju Air passenger jet, carrying 181 people, erupted in flames after veering off the runway during landing on Sunday morning. The incident occurred when the plane returning from Bangkok, collided with a fence wall after the landing gear failed to either deploy correctly or collapsed on landing. The aircraft skidded along the ground before crashing into a concrete barrier, triggering a massive explosion that engulfed it in flames. Authorities have confirmed 62 fatalities so far, while two individuals,a passenger and a crew member, have been rescued. Rescue operations are ongoing, with concerns that the number of casualties may increase further. -- 2024-12-29

As of 10.00 Thai time December 29, Korean Fire authorities have reported that they have identified 47 bodies so far, according to Newsis and Yonhap news agency, with officials warning the death toll could rise as bodies remain inside the aircraft’s fuselage. Two survivors, one passenger and one crew member, have reportedly been rescued and are receiving treatment at a nearby hospital.

This is coverage being shown by Korean media, of the reported bird strike.

Stabbing Incident in Pattaya Leaves Japanese Tourist Dead; Suspect Caught At approximately 06:05 on December 29, on Pattaya Third Road, a violent altercation resulted in the fatal stabbing of a 27- year-old Japanese man, identified as Mr. Seita Tanabe. The victim succumbed to his injuries despite resuscitation efforts. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347431-stabbing-incident-in-pattaya-leaves-japanese-tourist-dead-suspect-caught/

Picture of the scene. At approximately 06:05 on December 29, on Pattaya Third Road, a violent altercation resulted in the fatal stabbing of a 27- year-old Japanese man, identified as Mr. Seita Tanabe. The victim succumbed to his injuries despite resuscitation efforts. Police Lieutenant Colonel Wuttikorn Plodprong, Deputy Inspector of Pattaya City Police Station, received the report and alerted his superior, Police Colonel Navin Teerawit. Officers and rescue personnel from Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, Mr. Tanabe was found lying in a pool of blood with a severe stab wound to his chest. Bystanders were attempting to revive him as rescue workers administered first aid and performed CPR. The victim was immediately transported to a nearby hospital, where he later passed away. The alleged attacker, identified as 36-year-old David Mansiri, a Thai-English dual national, was detained at the scene. He displayed signs of heavy intoxication, with visible facial swelling, abrasions, and torn clothing. Despite his arrest, Mr. Mansiri showed no remorse, even making an "I love you" hand gesture to authorities. A knife believed to be the weapon was recovered and secured as evidence. According to Mr. Bank, a 22-year-old witness, the altercation began when the suspect was arguing with his foreign girlfriend. Both he and Mr. Tanabe attempted to intervene, but their efforts were misinterpreted. The suspect allegedly punched Mr. Tanabe, prompting Mr. Bank to urge both parties to leave the area. Shortly after, Mr. Tanabe retaliated by punching Mr. Mansiri, reigniting the conflict. The situation escalated when the suspect drew a knife and stabbed the victim in front of onlookers. Witnesses quickly notified authorities. Police transported the suspect to the hospital for treatment of a dislocated left shoulder. However, tensions rose when the victim's grieving girlfriend and friends, who were awaiting news at the hospital, learned of his death. Overcome with anger and sorrow, they shouted abuse at the suspect and attempted to confront him. Police swiftly intervened to prevent further violence. Lieutenant Colonel Itthiporn Tangchuthaveesap, Deputy Inspector of Pattaya City Police, documented the crime scene and coordinated with investigators to gather evidence and pursue legal action against the suspect. Authorities have assured that justice will be served in accordance with the law. The suspect under police detention. -- 2024-12-29

UPDATE Plane Crash at Muan International Airport: Dozens Feared Dead Picture from the scene. A plane skidded off the runway and crashed at Muan International Airport in South Korea on Sunday morning, resulting in a tragic incident that has left dozens feared dead. Authorities provisionally report that at least 28 people have died, though the final casualty count is yet to be determined. Fire officials have warned that, due to the severe damage to the aircraft, the death toll may rise. The Jeju Air flight 2216, a Boeing 737-800, was en route from Bangkok to Muan, carrying 181 people, 175 passengers and six crew members, when it crashed. The aircraft lost control while attempting to land without landing gear, skidding along the runway before hitting fencing and a perimeter wall. The plane then caught fire, triggering a massive rescue operation. Rescue teams have so far managed to pull two survivors from the wreckage, and emergency services are continuing their search efforts. Initial reports suggest that the Boeing 737-800 may have suffered a bird strike, which caused the landing gear to fail. The flight had attempted one landing before being forced to “go around” after the gear failed to deploy properly. South Korea’s acting president, Choi Sang-mok, has ordered the mobilization of all available rescue personnel and equipment. He is also heading to the crash site, located about 300 kilometers from the capital, Seoul, to oversee the ongoing operation. This is a developing story, and authorities are continuing to assess the situation. Further updates are expected as rescue operations continue. -- 2024-12-29

Jeju Air Flight from Bangkok Skids Off Runway at Muan Airport, 28 Dead An aircraft carrying 181 people has crashed at Muan International Airport in southwest South Korea, leaving at least 28 people dead, according to the Yonhap news agency. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347425-jeju-air-flight-from-bangkok-skids-off-runway-at-muan-airport-28-dead/

Picture from the scene. An Boeing 737-800, carrying 181 people has crashed at Muan International Airport in southwest South Korea, leaving at least 28 people dead, according to the Yonhap news agency. The Jeju Air flight, en route from Bangkok, Thailand, skidded off the runway during landing and collided with a perimeter wall, causing significant damage to the aircraft. Rescue operations are ongoing, with two survivors—one flight attendant and one passenger—reported so far. Both were found in critical condition, according to South Korea’s fire agency. Emergency crews are working to reach others trapped in the tail section of the plane. The crash triggered a massive emergency response, with 32 fire trucks and teams of firefighters, medics, and airport officials deployed to the scene. Unverified social media footage shows the plane skidding off the runway, crashing into a wall, and bursting into flames. A large plume of black smoke was visible from the airport. The passengers on board reportedly included 173 South Koreans and two Thai nationals. Caution video below shows scenes from the crash. The cause of the crash remains unclear, but initial reports from local media suggest the possibility of a bird strike interfering with the plane’s systems during its landing approach. Investigators are expected to analyze the aircraft’s black box data to determine the precise cause. Jeju Air and South Korean authorities have expressed their condolences to the victims and their families. Both nations are coordinating efforts to provide support for the affected passengers and relatives. The airport has been temporarily closed, and flights have been redirected to nearby facilities as rescue and recovery operations continue. Further updates are expected as authorities work to determine the full extent of the incident. -- 2024-12-29

Elderly Woman Sets House Ablaze in Suicide Attempt After Husband's Death An 81-year-old woman in Trat province narrowly survived a devastating fire she reportedly set in an attempt to take her own life. The incident left her with severe burns covering 80% of her body. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347422-elderly-woman-sets-house-ablaze-in-suicide-attempt-after-husbands-death/

Picture from responders. An 81-year-old woman in Trat province narrowly survived a devastating fire she reportedly set in an attempt to take her own life. The incident left her with severe burns covering 80% of her body. The fire broke out at approximately 16.00 on December 28, in a single-storey half-wood, half-concrete home located in Moo 4, Huai Raeng Subdistrict, Mueang District. Emergency services from the Sawang Boonchuay Rescue Centre and the local Huai Raeng fire service rushed to the scene after receiving reports of the blaze. Upon arrival, responders found the house engulfed in flames. The injured woman, identified as Mrs. Tan, was pulled from the inferno by a neighbour. She had sustained extensive burns and was also suffering from smoke inhalation. Rescue workers provided immediate first aid before transporting her to a hospital for urgent medical care. After battling the fire for more than 30 minutes, firefighters managed to extinguish the flames, but the damage was catastrophic. The house was completely destroyed, with all belongings reduced to ash. Mr. Phonrawut, 62, a neighbour, described how he became aware of the fire after hearing several loud noises, similar to firecrackers. Suspecting something was wrong, he ran to Mrs. Tan's house and saw flames rapidly spreading. "I poured water on myself and ran inside to help her," he recounted. "She was lying on the bed, silent, not calling for help. I dragged her out and immediately called the rescue team." Initial investigations suggest the fire was deliberately set by Mrs. Tan, who had been deeply distressed following the death of her husband just three days earlier. He had succumbed to a heart attack, and his funeral was held shortly before the incident. According to neighbours, Mrs. Tan had repeatedly expressed feelings of despair, telling friends that she had "nothing left" after her husband's passing. Authorities believe this emotional distress may have led to her decision to set the house on fire while remaining inside, intending to end her life. Further investigations are underway to confirm the cause of the fire. Meanwhile, Mrs. Tan remains in critical condition under medical care. -- 2024-12-29

Si Racha: Two Women Injured in Motorcycle Crash Avoiding Dog Two women riding a motorcycle down a hill in Chonburi’s Si Racha district sustained injuries after trying to avoid a dog that darted in front of their path, causing them swerve off the road and crash down a steep embankment. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347419-si-racha-two-women-injured-in-motorcycle-crash-avoiding-dog/

Picture from responders. Two women riding a motorcycle down a hill in Chonburi’s Si Racha district sustained injuries after trying to avoid a dog that darted in front of their path, causing them swerve off the road and crash down a steep embankment. At approximately 15:30 on 28 December, rescue teams from Sawang Prateep Si Racha and paramedics from Phyathai Si Racha Hospital responded to reports of a motorcycle crash near Phra Khru Hill. Upon arrival, they found two injured women and a heavily damaged motorcycle. The motorcycle was discovered resting on the leg of 28-year-old Ms Chue Yi, a Myanmar national. She suffered a deep wound on her head, severe back pain, and was in a state of shock, experiencing laboured breathing and cold extremities. Nearby, Ms Paweena, 32, the rider of the motorcycle, was found with back pain and abrasions across her body. Rescue personnel worked swiftly to extract the two women from the crash site, which was approximately 4 metres deep off the road, down a steep slope. It took around 15 minutes to bring them to safety and transport them to Laem Chabang Hospital for further treatment. Ms Paweena recounted the incident, explaining that she and her friend had been enjoying a scenic trip to take photographs at the top of Phra Khru Hill. While descending, a dog suddenly ran across their path. In an attempt to avoid the animal, she lost control of the motorcycle, causing it to veer off the road down the slope. Despite her injuries, Ms Paweena managed to call for help. Emergency responders ensured both women received immediate care and transferred them to hospital for continued medical attention. -- 2024-12-29

Chonburi Minivan Drivers Clash Over Passengers at Bus Terminal Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A violent altercation broke out among rival minivan drivers in Sattahip, Chonburi Province, on 28 December, leaving one man injured. The brawl, sparked by a dispute over passengers, unfolded at the Charoen Nairuea Bus Terminal in full view of transport officials and passengers. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347417-chonburi-minivan-drivers-clash-over-passengers-at-bus-terminal/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A violent altercation broke out among rival minivan drivers in Sattahip, Chonburi Province, on 28 December, leaving one man injured. The brawl, sparked by a dispute over passengers, unfolded at the Charoen Nairuea Bus Terminal in full view of transport officials and passengers. At approximately 12:10, police from Sattahip Police Station and rescue workers from the Sawang Rojana Thammasathan Foundation were alerted to the incident at the public minivan stand servicing the Bangkok-Sattahip route. Upon arrival, they found Mr. Chatree Deekhunto, a minivan driver, with facial injuries and bleeding profusely. He was immediately transported to Queen Sirikit Naval Hospital for treatment. According to Mr. Chatree, he had parked his minivan at the terminal to pick up passengers when he was suddenly attacked by a group of about ten men, allegedly drivers from the Chonburi-Rayong route. The attackers mistakenly identified him as someone who had allegedly stolen passengers along the route. Mr. Prateep Bumrungsri, another driver and a friend of the injured man, provided further context. He explained that earlier that day, drivers from the Chonburi-Rayong line accused him of picking up passengers along the roadside, which they claimed violated established rules. In retaliation, the group pursued his vehicle, despite him having passengers on board. After a heated roadside exchange, they allegedly returned to the terminal, where the attack occurred, but mistakenly assaulted Mr. Chatree instead of him. The Chonburi-Rayong drivers later reported the incident, claiming that Mr. Prateep had brandished a knife during an earlier confrontation on Sukhumvit Road near Big C, Sattahip. Fearing for their safety, they drove away but later agreed to meet at the bus terminal to resolve the matter. However, this meeting escalated into a physical fight between the groups, with punches thrown before being broken up by bystanders. Authorities are now investigating the incident, interviewing both parties and witnesses to determine the cause of the conflict. The clash occurred during the “10 Dangerous Days” of the New Year holiday period, a time when authorities are actively monitoring public transport operations for safety and compliance. The Chonburi Transport Office is also involved in the investigation. Police have submitted the names of the drivers and their accomplices to the transport authority for review. If violations of transport regulations are confirmed, those involved could face license revocation and immediate suspension of their operations. -- 2024-12-29

Wife Attacks Husband with Knife After Argument, Near Pattaya A violent domestic dispute in Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province, ended with a man being injured after his wife attacked him with a knife. The incident occurred at a construction workers' camp in Soi Mab Yai Lia 22, Nong Prue Subdistrict. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347416-wife-attacks-husband-with-knife-after-argument-near-pattaya/

Picture from responders. A violent domestic dispute in Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province, ended with a man being injured after his wife attacked him with a knife. The incident occurred at a construction workers' camp in Soi Mab Yai Lia 22, Nong Prue Subdistrict. At approximately 13:30 on 28 December, rescuers from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation were called to the scene of an assault. Upon arrival, they found Mr. Sai, 43, a construction worker, bleeding heavily from a deep facial wound that left his nose severely lacerated. First aid was administered before he was rushed to the hospital for medical care. Witnesses at the camp stated that Mr. Sai had been drinking with friends, when his wife arrived to bring him home. When he refused to leave, an argument ensued. In a fit of rage, his wife retrieved a kitchen knife and struck him across the face, causing the injuries. Further accounts revealed that the couple frequently quarrelled, often fuelled by the husband's drinking habits. Witnesses also disclosed that this was not the first violent incident between them. On a previous occasion, the wife had allegedly stabbed Mr. Sai, leaving him with serious injuries. Despite the repeated violence, Mr. Sai reportedly stayed in the relationship because of his love for her. A fellow worker reported seeing the wife park her motorcycle at the camp's entrance before approaching her husband. After failing to convince him to return home, she stormed into the camp cooking area, grabbed a knife, and attacked him in full view of others. Blood poured from Mr. Sai's face as onlookers rushed to alert emergency services. The wife fled the scene before authorities arrived, returning to their shared accommodation. Police are investigating the case and are expected to question her regarding the incident. -- 2024-12-29

Explosion Heard Before Blaze Destroys Toy Shop in Pathum Thani A toy shop in Pathum Thani’s Sam Khok district was almost completely destroyed by fire on the evening of 28 December, following an explosion that was heard moments before the blaze erupted. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347415-explosion-heard-before-blaze-destroys-toy-shop-in-pathum-thani/

Picture from responders A toy shop in Pathum Thani’s Sam Khok district was almost completely destroyed by fire on the evening of 28 December, following an explosion that was heard moments before the blaze erupted. At approximately 21:30 Pol Lt Col Watcharapong Thienprathum, an investigator from Sam Khok Police Station, received reports of a fire at Aiyu Toys, located on Pathum-Sam Khok Road. Firefighters from the Sam Khok Municipality, along with volunteers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, were dispatched to the scene, accompanied by Nirun Jaiplam, Mayor of Sam Khok Municipality. The fire broke out in a two-storey building, with the ground floor made of concrete and the upper floor constructed of wood. The toy shop occupied the entire structure, and the fire is believed to have started on the wooden upper floor. Flames quickly spread, engulfing the upper section and reducing it to ashes. Firefighters battled the blaze for 90 minutes before bringing it under control. Mrs Wandee Suefak, 67, the shop owner and a resident of Moo 1 in Sam Khok, explained that she was sitting outside the shop after closing for the evening when she heard a loud noise resembling an explosion from the upper floor. Looking up, she saw flames rapidly spreading across the wooden structure. She immediately called out to neighbours for assistance in extinguishing the fire and salvaging items, but the fire’s intensity forced her to contact authorities for help. Police officers from Sam Khok Police Station inspected the scene, questioning the owner and documenting evidence. Forensic specialists from Pathum Thani Province will be brought in to investigate the cause of the fire. The estimated damage is still under assessment. -- 2024-12-29

Fatal Collision Between Car and Passenger Bus in Chaiyaphum A vehicle collision in Chaiyaphum province on the night of 28 December has left six people injured and claimed the life of a 30-year-old woman. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347414-fatal-collision-between-car-and-passenger-bus-in-chaiyaphum/

Picture from responders. A vehicle collision in Chaiyaphum province on the night of 28 December has left six people injured and claimed the life of a 30-year-old woman. At approximately 22:20, emergency services were alerted to the crash near the U-turn point at Ban Sap Ruang Sai on Chaiyaphum-Kaeng Khro Road in Na Siao Subdistrict, Mueang Chaiyaphum District. Responding to the incident were rescuers from Sawang Kunnatham Foundation, emergency teams from Na Siao and Na Fai Subdistrict Administrative Organisations, Chaiyaphum Highway Department, and paramedics from Chaiyaphum Hospital. Initial investigations revealed that the driver of the car, travelling in the opposite direction to the passenger bus, crossed into the oncoming lane. The car struck the bus with a glancing blow before landing in a roadside ditch, on its side. Six people were reported injured at the scene. Emergency responders provided first aid before transporting all victims to Chaiyaphum Hospital. One of the injured, Ms Nittaya, 30, succumbed to her injuries shortly after arriving at the hospital. Ms Nittaya, a resident of Moo 12, Na Din Dam Subdistrict, Mueang District, Loei Province, was the daughter of the car’s driver and had been a passenger in the vehicle at the time of the crash. The bus, carrying 50 passengers en route to Rayong, also veered off the road and came to rest at the bottom of the roadside verge. Fortunately, none of the passengers sustained serious injuries. Those with minor injuries were treated at the scene, and a replacement bus was dispatched to continue their journey. Police from Mueang Chaiyaphum Station are investigating the circumstances leading to the collision. While preliminary evidence suggests the car driver veered into the bus’s lane, further analysis will be conducted to determine the exact cause. -- 2024-12-29

Newborn Baby Found Dead in Rayong Canal A shocking discovery was made in Rayong province, where the body of a newborn baby girl was found in a drainage canal. Authorities believe the infant had been strangled with a shoelace-like cord and discarded. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347400-newborn-baby-found-dead-in-rayong-canal/

36-Year-Old Foreign Woman Dies in Fall from Bangkok Hotel A 36-year-old foreign woman has died after reportedly falling from the 16th floor of a prominent hotel in the Ploenchit area of Bangkok. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347399-36-year-old-foreign-woman-dies-in-fall-from-bangkok-hotel/

CIB Seizes Large Batch of Fake Phone Accessories in Nonthaburi The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has seized a substantial consignment of counterfeit phone accessories bearing the trademark of a prominent brand. The haul, consisting of 1,026 items across five categories, was found to be substandard and posed potential dangers to users. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347397-cib-seizes-large-batch-of-fake-phone-accessories-in nonthaburi/

Police Mannequin “Sergeant Cheuy” Promoted to AI-Powered “Inspector Cheuy” Bangkok’s iconic traffic police mannequin, known as “Sergeant Cheuy,” is back on the back of a police pickup truck equipped with AI technology. Police placed the mannequin in front of CentralWorld on Ratchadamri Road, to demonstrate the mannequin‘s upgraded capabilities, including using AI cameras to monitor traffic violations such as illegal parking, blocking motorcycle lanes, driving against traffic, and riding without helmets. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347396-police-mannequin-“sergeant-cheuy”-promoted-to-ai-powered-“inspector-cheuy”/