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Fire in Barbecue Restaurant in Nonthaburi, Leaving One Injured A fire broke out at a popular barbecue restaurant on Bang Kruai-Sai Noi Road in Bang Bua Thong District, Nonthaburi Province, on the afternoon of 27 December. The blaze left one person injured and caused extensive damage to the establishment. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347345-fire-in-barbecue-restaurant-in-nonthaburi-leaving-one-injured/

Picture from responders. A fire broke out at a popular barbecue restaurant on Bang Kruai-Sai Noi Road in Bang Bua Thong District, Nonthaburi Province, on the afternoon of 27 December. The blaze left one person injured and caused extensive damage to the establishment. Police from Bang Bua Thong Police Station received the emergency call at 13:30 and promptly dispatched officers to the scene. Multiple fire trucks from Bang Bua Thong Municipality and New Bang Bua Thong Municipality also rushed to the site to tackle the flames. Firefighters discovered the blaze had originated in the staff quarters within the restaurant before spreading to a nearby storage room and kitchen area. It took approximately 45 minutes to bring the fire under control. A subsequent inspection revealed significant damage, with nearly all cooking equipment, stored goods and restaurant tableware damaged. An employee of the restaurant, identified only as Mr. Ek recounted the moment the fire started. He explained that he was in the staff quarters when flames erupted from an electrical switch. Alarmed, he immediately alerted his colleagues to help extinguish the fire. However, the flames quickly spread to nearby mosquito nets, making the fire uncontrollable. One worker, a Karen national who attempted to put out the flames, sustained burns to their abdomen and arms. Emergency responders provided initial treatment at the scene before transferring the injured individual to a local hospital. Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire originated in the staff quarters, but the exact cause is still under investigation. Forensic teams from Nonthaburi Province are expected to conduct a detailed examination in the coming days, as part of the ongoing investigation. -- 2024-12-28

Fatal Collision on Motorway: One Dead in Chachoengsao A crash occurred on the morning of 27 December 2024, as the ‘10 Days of Danger’ road safety campaign kicked off in Chachoengsao, leading to one fatality on the Motorway Route 7. The incident involved a collision between two container trucks. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347344-fatal-collision-on-motorway-one-dead-in chachoengsao/

Picture from responders. A crash occurred on the morning of 27 December 2024, as the ‘10 Days of Danger’ road safety campaign kicked off in Chachoengsao, leading to one fatality on the Motorway Route 7. The incident involved a collision between two container trucks. At approximately 05:15, police received reports of a crash involving two articulated trucks, a 22-wheel container truck and an 18-wheel truck, at a rest area on the inbound side of the motorway, near kilometre 49+800-900 in the Kaodin area of Bang Pakong district. Officers responded to the scene and confirmed the death of one individual, while another sustained injuries. The crash occurred after the first container truck, a white UD model with a red container, had initially collided with the rear of a pickup truck. The truck was then parked on the hard shoulder for insurance negotiators to arrive. As the driver of the truck was inspecting the vehicle, another 18-wheel truck collided with the rear of the stationary vehicle, crushing the victim, identified as 46-year-old Chaiyana Jaikla from Chonburi. The impact was so severe that the victim’s body was pinned under the chassis of the truck, resulting in an instant death at the scene. The driver of the second truck, Visanu Wongrod, 37, from Nakhon Sawan, was slightly injured in the collision. He was rescued from his vehicle by volunteers from the Chachoengsao Rescue Foundation, who used hydraulic tools to free him from the wreckage. Visanu, who had been driving from Laem Chabang, Chonburi, was en route to Samut Sakhon at the time of the crash. He reported that he did not see the stopped vehicle in time, as it was still early morning, and attempted to brake, but the heavy load of his truck prevented him from stopping in time. Following the accident, Visanu was tested for alcohol use, and authorities will proceed with an investigation to determine whether driving under the influence was a factor. Traffic in the area was severely disrupted, with a long queue of vehicles stretching for several kilometres as authorities cleared the wreckage and investigated the cause of the collision. Local police have launched an inquiry into the sequence of events and are continuing to piece together the details of this devastating crash. -- 2024-12-28

Wild Elephant Herd Threatens Crops in Nakhon Ratchasima In a concerted effort to protect local farmers’ crops, park rangers and villagers in Nakhon Ratchasima have been on high alert as a herd of wild elephants, estimated to number up to 100, attempts to encroach on farmland near the Thap Lan National Park. The elephants are reportedly trying to enter the Khao Khat valley, a national forest reserve located between the park and local farming areas. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347343-wild-elephant-herd-threatens-crops-in-nakhon-ratchasima/

Drone night picture from Park Rangers. In a concerted effort to protect local farmers’ crops, park rangers and villagers in Nakhon Ratchasima have been on high alert as a herd of wild elephants, estimated to number up to 100, attempts to encroach on farmland near the Thap Lan National Park. The elephants are reportedly trying to enter the Khao Khat valley, a national forest reserve located between the park and local farming areas. On the night of 26 December, Phawatthasart Chanthep, the head of Thap Lan National Park, led a patrol of rangers and volunteer networks to prevent the herd from moving further into the area. The elephants are believed to have left the protected park and are attempting to establish a temporary habitat in the valley, which is rich in resources such as water and shelter, and lies adjacent to agricultural land. If the elephants succeed in making Khao Khat valley their temporary home, the potential damage to farmers’ crops could be devastating. With harvests ready for collection, the intrusion could cause extensive harm, as was seen last year when a similar herd inhabited the valley for several months, wreaking havoc on local crops and causing significant losses. Drone surveillance has confirmed the presence of the herd along the forest boundary between the villages of Ban Mai and Chao Khian, prompting immediate action from the authorities. Rangers and volunteers have been working tirelessly through the night to push the elephants back into the forest, preventing further damage. This ongoing effort has been in place for the past four months, with the herd consistently attempting to breach the boundaries. Despite the challenges, the collaboration between the volunteer groups and the local community has remained strong. Thanks to their combined efforts, the herd has yet to reach the valley and cause significant destruction, providing some relief for the farmers in the area. However, the situation remains tense, and authorities are committed to continuing their vigilance to ensure the safety of both the local population and the elephants. -- 2024-12-28

Passengers Escape Unharmed After Fire on Bus in Roi Et An incident unfolded when a fire broke out on a passenger bus in Suwannaphum District, Roi Et Province. Fortunately, quick action by the driver and locals averted a potential tragedy, with no injuries reported. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347342-passengers-escape-unharmed-after-fire-on-bus-in-roi-et/

Picture from responders. An incident unfolded on December 27, when a fire broke out on a passenger bus in Suwannaphum District, Roi Et Province. Fortunately, quick action by the driver and locals averted a potential tragedy, with no injuries reported. Police Lieutenant Thanathip Vijarn, Deputy Inspector (Investigation) at Suwannaphum Police Station, received a report of the fire on Highway 502 (Arunprasert Road) near the entrance of Ban Yang Loeng, Village 12, Dokmai Subdistrict. Upon arrival at the scene, fire crews found that the blaze had already been extinguished, and all passengers had safely evacuated. Initial investigations revealed that the bus had departed from Bangkok the previous evening, heading to Phanom Phrai District, Roi Et. The fire broke out shortly after the vehicle had stopped to drop off passengers. As the bus moved slowly for about 30 metres, a motorcycle taxi driver flagged it down, alerting the driver to flames at the rear of the vehicle. The fire reportedly originated in the lower rear compartment, where multiple batteries were stored, including those powering the air conditioning system. Upon discovering the fire, the driver immediately opened the bus doors and instructed passengers to disembark. The onboard fire extinguishers were used to combat the flames, while nearby residents assisted with water hoses and buckets. Thanks to the swift response, the fire was brought under control without causing any injuries or significant property damage. However, some luggage was soiled by fire extinguisher residue. One passenger described the experience, stating, “I felt my hands trembling when I realised what was happening, but thankfully we all got out safely.” Following the incident, the bus company promptly dispatched a replacement air-conditioned bus to continue the journey. However, some passengers, still shaken by the ordeal, opted to contact relatives to arrange private transportation. The bus company has assured passengers that they will provide assistance for any injuries or property damage resulting from the incident. Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing. -- 2024-12-28

Two Thai Women and a Foreigner Injured in Motorcycle Collision in Pattaya A motorcycle collision on Pattaya Third Road, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province, left three people injured, including a foreign national who is in a serious condition. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347341-two-thai-women-and-a-foreigner-injured-in-motorcycle-collision-in-pattaya/

Picture from responders. A motorcycle collision on Pattaya Third Road, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province, left three people injured, including a foreign national who is in a serious condition. The crash occurred near Soi Chaloem Phrakiat 4/1 in the early hours of the morning of December 27. According to reports, a red Honda Click motorcycle, driven by a foreign man, collided with a black Honda Scoopy, ridden by a 22-year-old Thai woman, Ms. Kannika Aumsuwan, with her friend, Ms. Samita Tipsawat, as a pillion passenger. Rescue workers from Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation arrived at the scene to find the foreigner lying in a pool of blood in the middle of the road. First responders performed first aid, before rushing him to a nearby hospital. No details of the foreign rider were disclosed by authorities. Ms. Kannika and Ms. Samita sustained minor injuries and were also transported to the hospital after receiving first aid at the scene. Both motorcycles sustained damage, with debris and broken parts scattered across the road. Ms. Kannika reported that she was riding straight along the road when the foreigner, who appeared to be heading toward a nearby entertainment venue, made a sudden turn. Unable to brake in time, her motorcycle collided with his, causing both vehicles to skid in opposite directions. Eyewitnesses corroborated Ms. Kannika’s account, stating that the foreigner’s abrupt turn led to the collision. The foreign national, who was not carrying any identification documents, sustained the most severe injuries. Police Lieutenant Narate Phumsuk, an investigator from Pattaya City Police Station, arrived at the scene to document evidence and take witness statements. Authorities will review CCTV footage from nearby establishments to determine the exact cause of the crash. -- 2024-12-28

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Khon Kaen Bus Crash Leaves 1 Dead & Dozens Injured During Start of New Year Travel Rush A bus crash in Khon Kaen Province early morning has claimed one life and left over 30 people injured as families and individuals were making their way home for the New Year celebrations. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347282-khon-kaen-bus-crash-leaves-1-dead-dozens-injured-during-start-of-new-year-travel-rush/

Pictures from responders. A bus crash in Khon Kaen Province early morning has claimed one life and left over 30 people injured as families and individuals were making their way home for the New Year celebrations. The incident occurred at around 06:30 on December27, on Maliwan Road, near the Dong Lan Forest Park junction in Nong Thum Subdistrict, Chum Phae District. The bus was travelling the Bangkok–Loei route, when reportedly the driver lost control and veered off the road, landing in a ditch along the roadside. According to initial reports, the bus was carrying a full load of passengers eager to return to their hometowns for the holiday period. The sudden crash caused chaos as passengers were thrown from their seats. Eyewitnesses at the scene described a harrowing sight, with injured individuals scattered in and around the wreckage. Emergency services, including ambulances and rescue teams, were swiftly deployed to the site. Over 30 passengers were reported injured, with one sustaining critical injuries who succumbed shortly thereafter at the scene. The injuries ranged in severity, with medical personnel categorising victims into urgent, moderate, and minor cases. Many of the injured were transported to nearby hospitals, including Chum Phae Hospital and Khon Kaen Regional Hospital. Authorities have confirmed that all necessary medical support is being provided to the victims and their families. The exact cause of the crash is still under investigation. Preliminary findings suggest the bus may have been travelling at speed when the driver lost control near the sharp bend at the junction. Weather conditions at the time of the crash were reportedly clear and dry. Authorities are questioning the bus driver and company representatives to determine whether driver fatigue, mechanical failure, or other factors played a role. The bus will be removed from the scene for further inspection by forensic specialists, as the investigation into the incident continues. -- 2024-12-27

Missing Bangladeshi Tourist Found with Drugs in Bangkok Hotel Immigration police have discovered a missing Bangladeshi tourist in possession of drugs at a hotel in Bangkok’s Bang Na district, following six months of reported silence with his family. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347279-missing-bangladeshi-tourist-found-with-drugs-in-bangkok-hotel/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Immigration police have discovered a missing Bangladeshi tourist in possession of drugs at a hotel in Bangkok’s Bang Na district, following six months of reported silence with his family. On December 26, Police Colonel Rapeepat Utsaha, Deputy Commander of Immigration Division 1, responded to a missing person report concerning 30-year-old Abu Al Kasim. Kasim had been uncontactable since his arrival in Thailand in May 2024. Acting on a tip, officers located Kasim in a 9th-floor room of a Bang Na hotel. Upon their arrival, they encountered a Thai woman leaving the room. Inside, Kasim was found holding drug paraphernalia, and a subsequent search uncovered nearly two grams of crystal methamphetamine concealed in a snack box. Kasim’s tourist visa had expired during his prolonged stay. He confessed to drug possession, explaining that he had become enamoured with the “free lifestyle” in Thailand, which led him to experiment with illegal substances. The police have charged Kasim with drug possession and overstaying his visa. Investigators have also identified potential drug suppliers linked to the case and plan to pursue further leads. This incident raises ongoing concerns about drug abuse and immigration violations among foreign tourists in Thailand. Authorities are continuing their investigations. -- 2024-12-27

Pattaya Police Crack Down on Beach Prostitution, Arrest 20 Foreign Women In a coordinated operation, the Pattaya Tourist Police, Chonburi Immigration Bureau, and Chonburi Social Development and Human Security Office arrested 20 foreign women suspected of engaging in prostitution along Pattaya Beach. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347277-pattaya-police-crack-down-on-beach-prostitution-arrest-20-foreign-women/

Picture of arrest. In a coordinated operation, the Pattaya Tourist Police, Chonburi Immigration Bureau, and Chonburi Social Development and Human Security Office arrested 20 foreign women suspected of engaging in prostitution along Pattaya Beach. The operation on December 26, followed complaints from local residents and tourists about scantily clad women occupying areas under trees along the beach. Reports suggested these individuals were soliciting tourists for sexual services, prompting the authorities to take action. Police officers discreetly monitored various spots along the beach before making their arrests. The detainees included women from Uganda (9), Uzbekistan (8), Madagascar (2), and Rwanda (1), aged between 26 and 51. During initial questioning, all 20 women admitted to arriving in Pattaya to work as sex workers catering to foreign clients. Authorities charged them under Section 5 of the Prevention and Suppression of Prostitution Act, B.E. 2539 (1996), which prohibits public solicitation for prostitution in a manner deemed open, shameful, or disturbing to the public. The women were handed over to the Chonburi Social Development and Human Security Office for further processing and fines. The Chonburi Immigration Bureau will now proceed with revoking their visas and deporting them from Thailand. This operation aligns with directives from senior authorities aimed at improving the image of Pattaya as a tourist destination, especially during the festive New Year period. Police officials reiterated their commitment to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for visitors. -- 2024-12-27

Bold Ambush: Bombing of Armoured Vehicle in Yala Kills Police Officer A shocking attack occurred on the afternoon of December 26, when insurgents planted a bomb and opened fire on an armoured vehicle carrying police officers in Ban Bannang Krachae, Village 5, Thanto Subdistrict, Thanto District, Yala Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347267-bold-ambush-bombing-of-armoured-vehicle-in-yala-kills-police-officer/

Picture from responders. A shocking attack occurred on the afternoon of December 26, when insurgents planted a bomb and opened fire on an armoured vehicle carrying police officers in Ban Bannang Krachae, Village 5, Thanto Subdistrict, Thanto District, Yala Province. The vehicle, driven by Police Senior Sergeant Major Sorawit Chumchuen, was en route to the local market to procure supplies. The blast severely damaged the vehicle and caused fatal injuries to Sgt. Sorawit, who tragically passed away while being transported to Thanto Hospital. In an attempt to hinder the pursuit, the attackers cut down trees to block the roadway, scattered metal spikes, and placed suspicious objects along the escape route. These tactics significantly delayed emergency responders and complicated the investigation. Police Lieutenant Colonel Phonlakorn Srichai, Deputy Inspector of Thanto Police Station, led an initial investigation at the scene. Authorities believe the attack was aimed at escalating unrest in the region. Efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible for this heinous act. The authorities have extended their condolences to the victim’s family and continue to monitor the situation in the area. -- 2024-12-27

Mother Dies in Motorcycle-Truck Collision, Four-Month-Old Baby Seriously Injured A crash occurred in Pathum Thani when a motorcycle collided with the rear of a parked six-wheeled truck, resulting in the death of a 32-year-old mother and critical injuries to her four-month-old baby. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347266-mother-dies-in-motorcycle-truck-collision-four-month-old-baby-seriously-injured/

Picture from responders and CCTV below. A crash occurred in Pathum Thani when a motorcycle collided with the rear of a parked six-wheeled truck, resulting in the death of a 32-year-old mother and critical injuries to her four-month-old baby. Police Lieutenant Udomkiat Majang, Deputy Inspector (Investigation) of Pathum Thani City Police Station, received the report at 12.45 on December 26 and, along with rescue workers, rushed to the scene at the entrance of the Saeng Chai Pattana Community in Bang Prok, Mueang Pathum Thani District. At the scene, responders found a white Honda Click motorcycle wedged against the rear of a blue Isuzu six-wheeled truck belonging to a construction materials store. The motorcyclist, identified as Ms Phairin 32, was pronounced dead at the scene. Her infant, who had been carried in a front baby carrier, was thrown clear during the impact and sustained severe injuries. The child was rushed to hospital for emergency treatment. Ms Wing, 30, an employee at a nearby noodle shop, witnessed the aftermath. “I was sitting in the shop when I heard the crash. I ran out and saw the motorcycle had collided with the back of the parked truck. The rider was still alive at the time and signalled for me to help her baby, who had been thrown from the carrier. I immediately attended to the child and handed them over to rescue workers.” The truck, which had been parked on the roadside, was part of a local construction supply business. Authorities are investigating the circumstances of the collision. -- 2024-12-27 ScreenRecording_12-26-2024 17-47-51_1.mp4

Passenger Accused of Faking Fall to Demand Compensation on Bangkok Bus A bus operator in Bangkok has released a video warning both passengers and staff about incidents involving fraudulent claims for compensation. Full story and video:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347265-passenger-accused-of-faking-fall-to-demand-compensation-on-bangkok-bus/

Picture and video from bus CCTV A bus operator in Bangkok has released a video warning both passengers and staff about incidents involving fraudulent claims for compensation. The warning was prompted by an incident on 25 December at approximately 17:20, involving Bus Route 505 (vehicle 2-24E), which runs from Wongwian Yai to Pak Kret Pier. The incident occurred near Hua Lamphong as the bus prepared to turn right onto an expressway. The bus was forced to brake suddenly due to traffic ahead. During the abrupt stop, a passenger, believed to be around 70 years old, was seen tumbling from a seat on the left side of the bus towards the middle aisle. The elderly passenger then accused the bus staff of negligence and demanded compensation of 1,000 baht. The bus driver managed to negotiate the amount down to 500 baht, on the condition that the passenger signed a written statement declaring they would not pursue further legal action. After the incident, the driver reported the matter to their supervisor, who reviewed CCTV footage from inside the bus. The footage revealed that the passenger had intentionally propelled themselves from the seat, appearing to stage the fall in an attempt to claim money. This case has prompted the bus operator to issue a warning to both passengers and staff, urging caution and vigilance in similar situations. The incident highlights the challenges faced by public transport staff and the importance of onboard CCTV in resolving disputes. The bus company hopes this serves as a reminder to passengers to act responsibly while travelling. -- 2024-12-27 ScreenRecording_12-26-2024 13-43-34_1.mp4

27-Year-Old Woman Falls to Her Death from 5th Floor Flat in Huai Khwang Authorities have reported an incident in the Huai Khwang area of Bangkok, where a 27-year-old woman fell from the 5th floor of a residential flat. Huai Khwang Police Station was alerted to the incident and coordinated with the Poh Teck Tung Foundation rescue team and the Phra Mongkutklao Hospital emergency unit to attend the scene. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347264-27-year-old-woman-falls-to-her-death-from-5th-floor-flat-in-huai-khwang/

Picture from responders. Authorities have reported an incident on December 26, in the Huai Khwang area of Bangkok, where a 27-year-old woman fell from the 5th floor of a residential flat. Huai Khwang Police Station was alerted to the incident and coordinated with the Poh Teck Tung Foundation rescue team and the Phra Mongkutklao Hospital emergency unit to attend the scene. The victim, identified as Ms. Supansa, was found lying face down on the ground beneath the five-story building. She was dressed in blue-patterned trousers and a white T-shirt. Despite her critical condition, rescue workers performed CPR for 20 minutes in an attempt to save her life. Tragically, their efforts were unsuccessful, and she was pronounced dead at the scene. A relative of the victim, who is her uncle, revealed that she usually lived with her boyfriend in the Din Daeng area and rarely visited him unless she needed money or had disputes with her partner. She had arrived at his residence on Sunday, only days before the incident. The uncle explained that, earlier in the evening, he had returned home from work and noticed her standing on the balcony of the 5th floor. There were no apparent signs of distress or unusual behaviour at the time. Eyewitnesses reported that they saw the victim attempting to climb onto the balcony railing. Tragically, she appeared to lose her balance and fell backwards to the ground below. Witnesses described the scene as shocking and distressing. Police are currently questioning witnesses and have enlisted forensic experts to examine the scene for further evidence to determine the exact cause of the fall and if this was accidental, foul play or suicide. 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. -- 2024-12-27