Georgealbert

Picture of the new mannequin. 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. “Sergeant Cheuy” was spotted wearing a new uniform adorned with the rank of Police Captain, effectively promoting him to “Inspector Cheuy.” His new full name, “Pol. Capt. Cheuy Panya Pradit” (Inspector Cheuy Artificial Intelligence), was prominently displayed on his uniform. The upgraded mannequin attracted significant public attention, with many stopping to take pictures and share them on social media. This development marks a new era for the iconic figure, now imbued with AI-powered functions to assist in traffic law enforcement and public safety. Sergeant Cheuy, a traffic police mannequin, was first introduced in 2007 to assist the Metropolitan Police Bureau in easing the workload of Bangkok’s traffic police. Sponsored by Vibhavadi Hospital and private companies, the life-sized mannequin, standing 180 cm tall, was designed to resemble a smiling officer saluting motorists. The initial aim was to improve road safety by encouraging drivers to comply with traffic rules. However, just two years after its debut, the mannequin was withdrawn from its post on December 17, 2009, following public complaints. Many citizens mistakenly believed actual officers were shirking their duties by hiding behind the mannequin, prompting the then-commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, Pol. Lt. Gen. Santhan Chayanon, to order the removal of all 88 “Sergeant Cheuy” mannequins across Bangkok. Despite its early retirement, Sergeant Cheuy has undergone several transformations over the years. On July 10, 2019, the City Police in Uttaradit promoted the mannequin to Police Sub-Lieutenant, renaming him “Pol. Sub. Lt. Cheuy Tondai” (Cheuy Can Endure). Later, Ang Thong Provincial Police introduced an upgraded version, “Sergeant Cheuy V.2,” nicknamed “Lt. Cheuy Who Won’t Stay Idle.” Similarly, Rayong’s Ban Khai Police Station promoted their version to Police Lieutenant Colonel under the name “Pol. Lt. Col. Ekkaboon Yuen Pitak Ban Khai,” citing his popularity as a lucky charm among locals. The most recent upgrade on December 25, 2024, elevates Sergeant Cheuy to “Inspector Cheuy,” complete with AI capabilities, thanks to the Bangkok Metropolitan Police’s Traffic Division. This advancement reflects a creative approach to utilising technology for better traffic management while reviving the legacy of the iconic mannequin. As Inspector Cheuy steps into the future with AI-powered monitoring systems, his new role promises to strengthen traffic law enforcement and public safety, blending tradition with modern innovation. -- 2024-12-29

Picture courtesy of CIB 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. The operation, led by Pol. Capt. Wissarut Thaichanad, Pol. Lt. Col. Chanasuek Rojanapittayakorn, and officers from the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD), culminated in the arrest of a 28-year-old suspect, Mr. Nattapon, at a residence in Bang Kruai, Nonthaburi. The suspect faces charges of possessing counterfeit trademarked goods with the intent to sell. The confiscated items included fake mobile phone headsets and chargers. Investigations revealed that the suspect was distributing counterfeit goods online. Acting on intelligence, the authorities secured a search warrant from the Central Intellectual Property and International Trade Court and raided the property. Representatives of the affected brand verified the items as counterfeit. During questioning, the suspect reportedly confessed to all charges. The authorities have urged the public to exercise caution when purchasing phone accessories, particularly those that appear substandard or lack proper certification. They warned that counterfeit goods could lead to serious hazards, including electrical short circuits, explosions, or fires, potentially endangering lives and property. Consumers are advised to buy products from authorised dealers or reputable stores that offer quality guarantees to minimise risks and ensure safety. -- 2024-12-29

NGV Truck Crashes into Utility Pole, Bursts in Flames, Killing Two A crash occurred early this morning when a 24-wheel CNG-powered truck, fully loaded with teakwood, veered off the road and collided with utility poles, igniting into a raging fire. The crash claimed two lives, leaving a community shaken. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347385-ngv-truck-crashes-into-utility-pole-bursts-in-flames-killing-two/

Girlfriend Shocked as GPS Stops; Finds Out Boyfriend Has Died in Crash A crash occurred in the early hours, when a university student lost his life in a motorcycle crash after leaving a company party. His girlfriend, worried after noticing his GPS location had been stationary for some time, called him only to hear the devastating news from a rescue team that he had passed away. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347384-girlfriend-shocked-as-gps-stops-finds-out-boyfriend-has-died-in-crash/

Chilly start: Thailand braces for new year cold spell by Puntid Tantivangphaisal Photo courtesy of Panumet Tanraksa via Bangkok Post Thailand is bracing for a cool spell across its north, northeast, and central regions during the new year period, with temperatures expected to remain low until January 9, according to the Thai Meteorological Department (TMD). Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347361-chilly-start-thailand-braces-for-new-year-cold-spell/

Picture from responders. An incident occurred at a construction site near the Nonthaburi Provincial Stadium in Bang Krang Subdistrict, Mueang Nonthaburi District, where scaffolding and formwork collapsed, leaving one female worker dead and another injured. Police officers from Bang Si Muang Station, along with rescue teams from Phra Nang Klao Hospital and Bang Krang Municipality, were called to the scene at 10:00 on the morning of December 28. Upon arrival, authorities discovered scaffolding and debris scattered at the site of an under-construction building. The deceased, identified as 27-year-old Ms. Radna Ton, a Cambodian national, was pulled from the wreckage and efforts were made to revive her through CPR. Tragically, she succumbed to her injuries shortly after. Another worker, a female Myanmar national, sustained injuries and was rushed to Phra Nang Klao Hospital for treatment. Preliminary investigations revealed that the workers were operating on the ground floor when the accident occurred. The formwork was being dismantled on the sixth floor fell and struck scaffolding on the third floor, causing both the formwork and scaffolding to collapse onto Ms. Radna and her colleague below. Heartbreakingly, Ms. Radna’s husband, who was working on the same site, collapsed in tears as he cradled her lifeless body, overwhelmed by grief. Colleagues had to support him as he struggled to come to terms with the loss. Police have documented the scene and conducted initial interviews with witnesses. Further inquiries will be held with workers and site supervisors to determine the cause of the incident and assess potential negligence. The deceased has been transported to the Institute of Forensic Medicine for a post-mortem examination. Authorities have pledged to investigate thoroughly to ensure accountability and prevent future tragedies at the construction site. -- 2024-12-29

Picture from responders. A car crash claimed the lives of two street food vendors and left another injured early morning on December 28, in Nong Bua Lamphu Province. The incident occurred around 06:00 on the Nong Bua Lamphu-Ban Sang Sian Road in Hua Na Subdistrict, Mueang Nong Bua Lamphu District. Police Lieutenant Peerawit Chantachon from Nong Bua Lamphu Police Station and emergency rescue teams arrived at the scene to find food carts, tables, and traces of blood scattered along the roadside. Witnesses reported that the area is a popular morning market spot where vendors gather daily to sell food to locals, often for offerings to monks. According to eyewitnesses, a red Toyota car, without a licence plate, veered off the road and ploughed into vendors and customers standing by the roadside. The collision resulted in three severe injuries. Rescue teams rushed the injured to Nong Bua Lamphu Hospital, where two of the victims, identified as Ms. Sangwan and Ms. Wongduan, later succumbed to their injuries. The driver of the car, Ms. Dokfon, a local nursery teacher, admitted to authorities that she fell asleep at the wheel. She explained that she had been returning home with her husband and daughter after dropping off a friend in a nearby subdistrict. Ms. Dokfon revealed she had been awake all night after attending a traditional mor lam music performance and lost control of the vehicle upon dozing off. Mayor Pitak Supa of Hua Na Subdistrict Municipality, who lives near the crash site, expressed his condolences to the victims’ families and lamented the frequency of fatal accidents in the area. “This year, we have seen multiple fatalities in our community, and today is another tragic reminder of the need for road safety,” he said. The head of the provincial disaster prevention office, Mr. Prasert Nimmansamai, and Deputy Governor Mr. Sasin Pattanapirom, have called for increased vigilance during the New Year holiday period. They urged motorists to exercise caution and reminded motorcyclists to wear helmets and use proper lighting. Police confirmed that the driver’s breathalyser test showed no traces of alcohol. Authorities are conducting further investigations into the incident and considering the potential charges against the driver. -- 2024-12-29

Picture from raid. In a major operation on the morning of December 28, Chonburi police raided a house in Pattaya suspected of operating as a server base for an illegal South Korean online gambling network. The raid, led by Police Major General Thawatkiat Jindakuansanong and Police Colonel Navin Theerawit, followed the issuance of search warrant No. 339/2567 by Pattaya Provincial Court. The target was a two-storey house in a gated community on Chaiyapruek Soi 1, Pattaya, Bang Lamung District. The house was secured with CCTV cameras and appeared to be heavily fortified. Inside, police found 13 South Korean men working in two rooms equipped with over 40 computers. The operation was linked to the website www.myrunking01.com, which offered online gambling services, including baccarat, slots, and sports betting, primarily targeting South Korean gamblers. Each worker had specific responsibilities, including managing user accounts, processing money transfers, and onboarding new customers. The site reportedly had over 20,000 active user accounts but restricted access to Thai nationals. Authorities seized 24 desktop computers, 12 laptops, 28 mobile phones, over 20 South Korean passports, and nearly 40 OTP devices used for transaction alerts. The raid also led to the arrest of 14 individuals: 13 South Korean employees, including one South Korean woman, and a Myanmar man employed as a cleaner. Additional search warrants (Nos. 340/2567 and 341/2567) were executed on two nearby houses believed to serve as staff accommodations. However, suspects had fled before police arrived, leaving behind some incriminating evidence and a safe, which was confiscated for investigation. Police Major General Thawatkiat revealed that the operation was the result of an investigation triggered by unusual activity at the property. The house had been rented for three months, with frequent food deliveries and a high volume of people entering and exiting. The gambling network was estimated to have generated over 120 million baht in just three months. “This operation is part of our effort to crack down on foreign nationals using Thailand as a base for illegal activities, including online gambling and call centre scams,” said Major General Thawatkiat. The authorities plan to cooperate with the South Korean Embassy to further investigate and dismantle such networks. Local residents reported seeing the South Korean tenants for nearly a year but described them as discreet, often travelling by scooter and keeping to specific schedules. One resident noted, “This isn’t surprising; our community has had issues with illegal activities involving foreign nationals before, especially related to call centres and online gambling.” Thai authorities are continuing their investigation and plan to expand the crackdown on similar operations to uphold the government’s policy against illegal foreign enterprises. -- 2024-12-29

Foreigner Causes Christmas Chaos: Misfires Firework in Pattaya, Sparks Panic A bizarre incident turned a Christmas celebration dangerous and chaotic, when a foreign man, described as heavily tattooed and bald, accidentally ignited some fireworks incorrectly, causing an explosion in the middle of a busy street in Soi Buakhao, Pattaya. The incident left bystanders panicking, tourists fleeing for safety, and a local gift shop partially damaged by a small fire. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347362-foreigner-causes-christmas-chaos-misfires-firework-in-pattaya-sparks-panic/

Picture from responders. A harrowing incident unfolded in a cassava plantation in Chonburi's Bang Lamung district when a four-year-old boy stood watch over his critically injured father, pleading for help from a passerby after the man was stabbed in the stomach by his wife. At around 18:00 on December 27, Huai Yai Police Station received a report of a stabbing in the cassava fields near Moo Baan Phu Sai, Moo 5, Khao Mai Kaew Subdistrict. Emergency responders from the Sawang Boriboon Foundation in Pattaya rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, rescuers found a young boy, aged four, standing beside his injured father, Mr. Chaloemphon Maliwan, 29. The man was lying on the ground, bleeding from a single stab wound to the abdomen, and struggling to breathe. Local residents who had come upon the scene had already alerted emergency services. First aid was administered before the victim was transported to Pattaya Patthamnakorn Hospital for urgent medical treatment. Standing nearby was the alleged assailant, the victim's wife, Ms. Ladda Petchnoo, 29, holding another child in her arms while her two daughters stood close by, awaiting police officers to arrive. Ms. Ladda recounted the events to authorities, stating, "This man has left me and our children for other women countless times, only to come crawling back, claiming he wants to be with his children. I gave him another chance, but ever since he returned, he has been drunk every day. Today, he was drunk again and insisted on driving out, which I tried to prevent. When he refused to listen and started hitting me, I couldn't take it anymore. I grabbed the knife he was carrying and stabbed him once in the stomach." Police officers from Huai Yai Station have taken Ms. Ladda into custody for questioning and have charged her with assault pending further investigation. Meanwhile, social services are being arranged to care for the children involved in this family dispute. -- 2024-12-29

Picture from trsponders. A chilling incident unfolded in Hat Yai on the night of December 27, as a gunman, disguised as a delivery rider, shot a 20-year-old man eight times outside his home, killing him. The shooting, which followed a threatening phone call, has left the community in shock as police launch a manhunt for the suspect. At 19:35 Pol. Col. Phumi Banthip, Superintendent of Hat Yai Police Station, was alerted to the shooting near Chok Saman Khun 3 Alley in Hat Yai Municipality, Songkhla Province. Investigators from Hat Yai Police Station and Songkhla Provincial Police, along with forensic experts and patrol officers, arrived at the scene to find eight 9mm bullet casings scattered on the road. The victim, identified as Mr. Nawat 20, was critically injured with multiple gunshot wounds to the torso. Relatives and neighbours rushed him to Hat Yai Hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival. Initial investigations revealed that Mr. Nawat had been sitting outside his home when the assailant, an apparent rival, approached on a motorbike wearing a delivery rider uniform. The gunman stopped in front of the victim, pulled out a firearm, and fired eight consecutive shots. Mr. Nawat attempted to flee into the alley but collapsed. CCTV footage from the area captured the sound of eight gunshots and showed the suspect speeding away on a motorbike. Police believe the suspect is a known rival of the victim, with a history of animosity between them. Prior to the shooting, the gunman reportedly called Mr. Nawat to issue threats, saying he would "cut his tongue" and instructing him to "be ready." A close friend of the victim revealed that the suspect had called the victim the day before, threatening him, but did not show up. The gunman called again 10 minutes before the shooting, repeating his taunts. Mr. Nawat, seemingly unperturbed, remained outside his home until the attacker arrived and opened fire. Hat Yai Police have identified the suspect and are actively pursuing him. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as they continue their investigation into this brutal act of violence. -- 2024-12-29

Picture from responders. A 38-year-old man was shot multiple times in the head and killed beside his motorcycle in a remote area of Panat Nikhom District, Chonburi. Police later discovered 10 methamphetamine pills in the victim’s possession. The incident occurred at around 21:30 on December 27 along a secluded road between Ban Nong Sai and Nong Phrao in Moo 3, Mon Nang Subdistrict. Upon receiving the report, Pol Col Thammarat Akkarachaiyaphong, Superintendent of Panat Nikhom Police Station, and Pol Lt Khommanat Sukhee, Deputy Inspector, rushed to the scene along with rescue personnel from Sawang Het Ban Thung Hiang Foundation. At the scene, officers found a green-black Honda MSX motorcycle lying on its side. Next to the vehicle lay the body of Mr. Thibet. The victim had sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the left temple, with blood pooling around his head. Forensic investigators from Region 2 examined the scene and found a single spent bullet casing on the concrete road. A local resident, identified as Mrs. A, reported hearing what sounded like a vehicle hitting a dog, followed by the sound of gunfire, 4-5 shots in rapid succession. She observed a pickup truck parked nearby, which sped off immediately after the shots were fired. Due to poor lighting, she was unable to identify the vehicle’s colour or other details. “When we shone a flashlight, we saw a man lying in a pool of blood. We were certain he was dead, so we called the police straight away,” she said. Mr. Wasphon Phasomsap, a rescue worker at the scene, confirmed the victim was shot in the head, with the bullet piercing through his helmet. “This area is poorly lit and very isolated, making it an ideal location for such a crime,” he added. During a search of the victim’s body, police found 10 methamphetamine pills in a crossbody bag, which have been taken into evidence. Authorities are now reviewing CCTV footage from the area to track vehicles that followed the victim or fled after the incident. Police believe the suspect intentionally chose the remote location to carry out the murder. Investigators are pursuing leads to identify and apprehend the gunman. The case remains under investigation. -- 2024-12-29

Pictures from responders. A crash occurred early this morning when a 24-wheel CNG-powered truck, fully loaded with teakwood, veered off the road and collided with utility poles, igniting into a raging fire. The crash claimed two lives, leaving a community shaken. At 01:50, Pol. Sub-Lt. Pornsatit Burananont, an investigator with Sing Buri Police Station, was alerted to the accident on Highway 32 at kilometre marker 92, in Bang Man Subdistrict, Mueang District, Sing Buri Province. The incident involved a 24-wheel Hino truck registered in Bangkok, which had overturned and caught fire after striking several utility poles. The blaze also scorched nearby residential property, including the roof of the village chief’s home, before firefighters managed to contain the flames. Firefighters discovered the charred body of a man believed to be the truck driver near the vehicle’s wheels. Authorities identified him via GPS data as Mr. Katharat. A second victim, an unidentified woman, was found trapped under the truck’s rear wheels, her body similarly burned. The truck belonged to Top Team Transport Limited Partnership. Authorities are working to notify the victims’ families and summon the vehicle owner for further questioning. Mrs. Kamonwan Rumruay, the village chief of Moo 7, recounted the harrowing moments of the incident. “I was asleep when I heard a loud crash, followed by an explosion and the smell of fire. I rushed out to find the truck engulfed in flames, just a few metres from my house. I was terrified it might explode again,” she said. While her home sustained minor damage, the emotional toll has been significant. Mrs. Kamonwan also noted that a similar crash occurred at the same location on May 4, 2024, when a trailer truck veered off the road during the day. That crash, caused by driver fatigue, resulted in one fatality, with the vehicle stopping just two to three meters from her house. Authorities are investigating the cause of today’s tragic crash and will work to prevent further incidents at this hazardous location. -- 2024-12-29

First Day of Thailand’s “10 Dangerous Days” Sees 52 Deaths and 318 Injuries The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has reported that the first day of Thailand’s “10 Dangerous Days” New Year road safety campaign recorded 52 fatalities and 318 injuries from 322 road crashes. Authorities are now intensifying safety measures on both major and minor roads to curb risky behaviours and ensure public safety during the holiday period. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347375-first-day-of-thailand’s-“10-dangerous-days”-sees-52-deaths-and-318-injuries/

Picture from responders. A crash occurred in the early hours of December 28, when a university student lost his life in a motorcycle crash after leaving a company party. His girlfriend, worried after noticing his GPS location had been stationary for some time, called him only to hear the devastating news from a rescue team that he had passed away. At 04:30, Pol. Lt. Kiatthisak Kochasak of Khlong Luang Police Station received a report of a fatal motorcycle accident on the inbound side of Phahonyothin Road, just past the entrance to the Tha Khlong Municipality in Khlong Luang District, Pathum Thani Province. The scene was attended by Pol. Capt. Singha Fueangkaew, traffic officers from Khlong Luang Police Station, forensic doctors from Thammasat University Hospital, and rescue teams from Tha Khlong Municipality and Poh Teck Tung Foundation. The victim, identified as Mr. Chaiwat, aged 23, was found lifeless at the side of the road. He was wearing a workshop uniform from a Rajabhat University. Approximately 20 metres away, his blue Honda PCX motorcycle overturned with his helmet. A security guard near the scene stated that he heard a loud crash and saw dust rising on the road. Upon checking, he discovered the victim and his fallen motorcycle. No other vehicles appeared to be involved, leading authorities to believe the victim lost control and fell. Ms. Supavida, the victim’s 22-year-old girlfriend, revealed that her boyfriend had been attending a New Year’s party hosted by the company where he was interning in the Khlong Four area. After the party, he dropped off a friend in Khlong Three and was on his way home. However, she grew concerned when she noticed his GPS signal was stationary for an unusually long time at the crash site. She decided to call him, only for a rescue worker to answer and deliver the heartbreaking news of his death. Mr. Chaiwat, a fourth-year Industrial Technology student at Valaya Alongkorn Rajabhat University, had been interning as part of his studies. Pol. Lt. Kiatthisak Kochasak documented the scene and ordered the body to be transported by the Poh Teck Tung Foundation to Thammasat University Hospital for a detailed autopsy. -- 2024-12-29

Picture from responders. Police in Krabi are investigating the death of a 35-year-old woman who was found in her car on December 28, in the car park of a prestigious university on Sriphangnga Road, Krabi Yai. The woman, identified as Ms. Angsara, was discovered in the driver's seat of a silver Toyota Vios with the engine still running. Authorities estimate she had been deceased for six to seven hours before being found. The grim discovery was made at around 07.00 and reported to Pol. Lt. Rattapol Thongrod of Krabi City Police. A forensic team, rescue workers, and local investigators were dispatched to the scene. Inside the vehicle, police found a charcoal stove filled with ash on the passenger side and traces of smoke throughout the cabin. Evidence also included documents related to bipolar disorder treatment, several prescription medications, and two handwritten letters, believed to be suicide notes. One of the notes, addressed to the woman's mother, expressed her love and sorrow for her actions. It read, "Mum, don't worry. I've thought about this a lot. Think of me as going to work in Bangkok, not leaving forever. Don't be sad. Please cremate me before the New Year with a simple one-night ceremony. I was happy to hug you, my aunt, and my sibling today. I was also happy to go to the beach with you, Mum. I'm sorry for being weak and unable to live with myself." A second letter was addressed to her relatives, and another note was written on an appointment card from her psychiatrist. The deceased had recently returned from Bangkok, where she worked at a convenience store, to visit her family in Krabi. On December 27, she spent the day with her parents, taking her mother to Ao Nang beach for a final trip. Her father, Mr. Prasat, recalled their day together, saying, "She didn't show any signs of distress. She even told me, 'Dad, don't die before me. Let me go first.' I didn't think much of it at the time, but now it feels like a warning." That evening, she told her family she would stay overnight at a friend's house. The next morning, her father learned the tragic news. Police believe Ms. Angsara's mental health struggles and personal stress contributed to her decision. CCTV and GPS data reveal she rented the car from the airport upon arriving from Bangkok. Around midnight, she parked the vehicle in the university car park and appears to have prepared the charcoal stove using her trainers as kindling before sealing herself inside the vehicle. Her aunt, Ms. Srinuan, recounted how Ms. Angsara had borrowed the charcoal stove the day before, claiming she wanted to grill food with her mother. "She seemed completely normal at the time. I never imagined she would use it for this purpose," said the grieving aunt. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai) or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress or depression. Seek help. -- 2024-12-29

to continue: Thailand Live Sunday 28 December 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1347401-thailand-live-sunday-29-december-2024/

First Day of Thailand’s “10 Dangerous Days” Sees 52 Deaths and 318 Injuries The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has reported that the first day of Thailand’s “10 Dangerous Days” New Year road safety campaign recorded 52 fatalities and 318 injuries from 322 road crashes. Authorities are now intensifying safety measures on both major and minor roads to curb risky behaviours and ensure public safety during the holiday period. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347375-first-day-of-thailand’s-“10-dangerous-days”-sees-52-deaths-and-318-injuries/

Picture from responders of a Day 1 fatal crash. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has reported that the first day of Thailand’s “10 Dangerous Days” New Year road safety campaign recorded 52 fatalities and 318 injuries from 322 road crashes. Authorities are now intensifying safety measures on both major and minor roads to curb risky behaviours and ensure public safety during the holiday period. Pol. Gen. Permpoon Chidchob, Minister of Education and chair of the National Road Safety Committee, announced the figures for 27 December, the campaign’s opening day, under the theme “Safe Driving – Thailand Without Accidents.” Key causes of crashes included speeding (39.44%) and sudden lane cutting (20.50%). Motorcycles were involved in 85.16% of crashes, with most incidents occurring on straight roads. The most vulnerable age group was 50–59, accounting for 15% of casualties. Among provinces, Nakhon Si Thammarat saw the highest number of accidents (17 cases) and injuries (17 people), while Bangkok and Nakhon Si Thammarat reported the highest death tolls, with four fatalities each. Most accidents occurred between 16:01 and 17:00 and highways accounted for nearly half (47.83%) of all incidents. Pol. Gen. Permpoon highlighted the government’s efforts to manage the high travel volume during the New Year period, especially from 27 December to 5 January, identified as the “10 Dangerous Days.” Provincial authorities have been instructed to intensify enforcement against risky driving behaviours, including speeding, drunk driving, and failure to wear helmets or seat belts. Additional safety measures include increased police checkpoints, traffic monitoring, and public assistance points along major and secondary roads. The Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Department of Land Transport, has deployed 150 “Vocational and Transport Volunteer Assistance Centres” across the country to aid travellers. Chesada Mosikarat, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, emphasised the need for heightened vigilance in accident-prone areas such as intersections, construction zones, and long straight roads where speeding is prevalent. Authorities are also urging compliance with traffic laws and promoting alternative routes to ease congestion on key highways. Deputy Director-General of the DDPM, Saharat Wongsakulwiwat, noted that wet road conditions due to seasonal rains in the southern provinces, including Chumphon, Surat Thani, and Nakhon Si Thammarat, pose additional risks. Motorists are advised to exercise caution when travelling in these regions. The DDPM continues to urge drivers to adhere to road safety regulations, remain courteous to other road users, and help make the holiday period safer for everyone. Related articles: Anutin Launches Road Safety Campaign for New Year Holidays:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347355-anutin-launches-road-safety-campaign-for-new-year-holidays/ Incident pictured above:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347350-fatal-collision-between-van-and-truck-in-chonburi-leaves-two-dead / -- 2024-12-28

This is the CCTV footage from Thai media.

Foreigner Causes Christmas Chaos: Misfires Firework in Pattaya, Sparks Panic A bizarre incident turned a Christmas celebration dangerous and chaotic, when a foreign man, described as heavily tattooed and bald, accidentally ignited some fireworks incorrectly, causing an explosion in the middle of a busy street in Soi Buakhao, Pattaya. The incident left bystanders panicking, tourists fleeing for safety, and a local gift shop partially damaged by a small fire. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347362-foreigner-causes-christmas-chaos-misfires-firework-in-pattaya-sparks-panic/

Picture captured from CCTV A bizarre incident turned a Christmas celebration dangerous and chaotic, when a foreign man, described as heavily tattooed and bald, accidentally ignited some fireworks incorrectly, causing an explosion in the middle of a busy street in Soi Buakhao, Pattaya. The incident left bystanders panicking, tourists fleeing for safety, and a local gift shop partially damaged by a small fire.. The event, which occurred shortly after midnight on Christmas night, saw a foreigner lighting fireworks outside a bar. However, the firework was reportedly placed upside down, causing it to explode violently on the ground. Sparks and debris flew in all directions, creating panic among nearby residents and tourists. Shrapnel from the firework ignited items at a nearby gift shop, resulting in damages estimated at over 20,000 baht. CCTV footage captured the shocking moment, showing the man fleeing the scene moments after the explosion. According to witnesses, the man entered a bar before slipping out the back door. He was later seen getting into a grey Honda Civic, reportedly a Bolt ride-hailing vehicle, and speeding off in the direction of Central Pattaya Road. Ms. “Mae,” a 38-year-old employee of the damaged shop, described the harrowing ordeal, stating, “I heard the sound of fireworks being lit near the shop. Suddenly, sparks flew everywhere, and people started screaming and running. The firework sparks hit the front of our shop, and items on display caught fire. I was terrified and couldn’t move as the sparks were flying in all directions.” She added that the damages to the shop, which sells cosmetics, clothing, and gift items, amounted to more than 20,000 baht. “If the sparks had hit the building itself, the damage could have been far worse,” she noted. Local authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. The foreigner, described as bald, standing approximately 185–195 cm tall, and covered in tattoos on his arms and legs, is now a wanted man. Police are urging anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward, with a reward being offered. Victims of the incident have filed complaints with Pattaya City Police Station, demanding swift action to locate and prosecute the individual responsible for the reckless act. -- 2024-12-28

Man Seriously Injured After Jumping from Moving Car at 120 km/h in Ratchaburi A shocking incident occurred in Ratchaburi when a man jumped from a moving car travelling at nearly 120 km/h, only to be struck by a van moments later. The entire event was captured on dash-cam footage, which has since gone viral on social media Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347354-man-seriously-injured-after-jumping-from-moving-car-at-120-kmh-in-ratchaburi/

Pictures captured from dash-cam A shocking incident occurred in Ratchaburi when a man jumped from a moving car travelling at nearly 120 km/h, only to be struck by a van moments later. The entire event was captured on dash-cam footage, which has since gone viral on social media. The incident took place at approximately 12:45 on 26 December. An attorney from Phetchaburi was driving with his family on the Phetkasem Road, heading south past the Pangkraidej timber yard, when he noticed a red Mazda 3 sedan in front of him. The vehicle was braking repeatedly, despite its high speed, prompting the lawyer to keep a safe distance behind. Suddenly, the rear passenger door of the Mazda opened, and a man jumped out of the vehicle. The lawyer swerved into the left lane and slowed down to avoid hitting the man, who tumbled across the road after jumping. He was then struck by a passing van. The lawyer did not stop at the scene due to concern for his family’s safety, but later reviewed the dashcam footage, which clearly showed the man’s sudden decision to leap from the car. The lawyer posted the footage online, hoping it could serve as evidence for the man’s family. The incident was also reported to local authorities, and emergency services arrived to assist the man, who was rushed to the hospital with serious head injuries. According to reports, the man had been travelling to collect medication for depression. Authorities are still investigating the incident, but the reasons for the man’s actions remain unclear. His mother, who was present at the scene, has been unable to provide a statement as she fainted multiple times after the incident. Police plan to follow up with her for further details, as the investigation continues. -- 2024-12-28

Man Severely Injured by Electric Shock While Cutting High-Voltage Wires in Samut Prakan A 30-year-old man was severely injured in the early hours of the morning of December 27, after receiving an electric shock, while attempting to cut high-voltage wires near the Samut Prakan Treasury Office, just 200 metres from the local police station. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347353-man-severely-injured-by-electric-shock-while-cutting-high-voltage-wires-in-samut-prakan/