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Fatal Accident Leaves Two Dead and Several Injured in Phetchabun A crash occurred on the morning of December 26, in the Namtok Na Naew area of Phetchabun province, leaving two dead and several others seriously injured. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347263-fatal-accident-leaves-two-dead-and-several-injured-in-phetchabun/

Picture from responders. A crash occurred on the morning of December 26, in the Namtok Na Naew area of Phetchabun province, leaving two dead and several others seriously injured. At around 09:00 the Kok Thai volunteer rescue team received an urgent call from the 1669 Emergency Coordination Centre, alerting them to a road traffic incident on Highway 12, Chumphae - Lom Sak, near the Hoi Sanam Sai forest checkpoint. According to reports, a Mitsubishi pickup truck had left the road at speed and collided with a tree, causing significant damage to the front of the vehicle. Upon arrival, emergency responders found that six individuals had been involved in the pickup at the time of the crash. Two were confirmed dead at the scene, while the remaining four were injured and quickly transported to nearby hospitals. Two of the injured were taken to Namtok Na Naew Hospital, and the other two to Kon Sarn Hospital. The details and names of the victims and casualties were not disclosed by the police. The driver, who died in the crash will be tested as part of the autopsy, to see if alcohol or drugs played a part in the incident. The scene of the crash is located in a border area between Phetchabun and Chaiyaphum provinces, along a stretch of road notorious for crashes. Emergency response teams, including the Kok Thai and local volunteers, worked swiftly to assist the victims and secure the area. Local authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, as no other vehicle was involved and there is no CCTV coverage in the area, will wait to interview the survivors. -- 2024-12-27

Suspect Causes Fatal Car Crash During Escape From Custody, 1 Officer Killed, 3 Injured An incident unfolded in Nong Chik District, Pattani, when a suspect escaped custody and caused a car crash, resulting in the death of one officer and injuries to three others. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347262-suspect-causes-fatal-car-crash-during-escape-from-custody-1-officer-killed-3-injured/

Picture from responders. An incident unfolded in Nong Chik District, Pattani, when a suspect escaped custody and caused a car crash, resulting in the death of one officer and injuries to three others. The events began on 19 December 2024, when the Joint Special Operations Unit in Pattani detained Mr. Hamdee, a suspect linked to multiple violent incidents in the southern border provinces. He was taken into custody in Tabing Subdistrict, Saiburi District, and transported to the interrogation centre at the 43rd Ranger Task Force in Nong Chik District. During questioning, investigators reportedly uncovered Mr. Hamdee’s involvement in several major incidents, including: • A car bomb attack in Panare District on 24 October 2024. • An explosion targeting Border Patrol Police Unit 446 in Yaring District on 14 November 2024. • A 1.2-million-baht robbery from 7-Eleven staff outside Kasikorn Bank in Palas on 18 November 2024. On 25 December, at approximately 19:00 authorities were transporting Mr. Hamdee from the interrogation centre to the Forward Police Operations Centre via Highway 418. As the vehicle passed through Kalo Tanyong Subdistrict in Nong Chik, Mr. Hamdee escaped custody, by grabbing the steering wheel and causing the vehicle to veer off the road and crash into a concrete bridge barrier. The crash resulted in the following casualties: 1. Lt. Thongpak Sukkarawatcharin – Suffered hip injuries, currently under treatment at Pattani Hospital. 2. Sgt. Chawalit Kittiphan – Sustained head injuries, also receiving treatment at Pattani Hospital. 3. Volunteer Ranger Natthawut Unla – Sustained arm injuries, under treatment at Pattani Hospital. 4. Volunteer Ranger Pairoj Prappram – Sustained neck injuries and died at the scene. The suspect fled the scene after the crash, and a manhunt is currently underway. Authorities secured the crash site and are working to apprehend Mr. Hamdee to face justice swiftly. The incident highlights the ongoing risks faced by security personnel in the volatile southern provinces. Local officials have vowed to pursue the suspect relentlessly and bring him to justice in accordance with the law. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information that could lead to the suspect’s capture. -- 2024-12-27

Tourist Mini Train Derails in Nakhon Ratchasima: 8 Injured A tourist mini train in Nakhon Ratchasima derailed on December 26, injuring eight passengers, according to local authorities. The incident occurred at approximately 10:40 in the popular tourist area of Pong Talong, Pak Chong District, along Rural Road 3052. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347260-tourist-mini-train-derails-in-nakhon-ratchasima-8-injured/

Picture from responders. A tourist mini train in Nakhon Ratchasima derailed on December 26, injuring eight passengers, according to local authorities. The incident occurred at approximately 10:40 in the popular tourist area of Pong Talong, Pak Chong District, along Rural Road 3052. The train, which is a small-scale attraction offering scenic views for tourists, was running slowly when one of its carriages derailed and tipped over, throwing some passengers, mostly children onto the rocks alongside the tracks. Emergency services were quickly dispatched to the scene, with the local police, led by Lt. Col. Sarath Suphanphach, and rescue teams arriving shortly after the report was received. Upon investigation, it was confirmed that the injured passengers were not seriously harmed, but eight persons were transported to Mokkuth Keerawan Hospital in Khao Yai, which is located near the incident site. Hospital personnel conducted X-rays and provided treatment to the victims, though their injuries were described as not serious. According to the caretaker of the tourist attraction, this was the first time such an incident had occurred. The caretaker explained that the train typically moves at a very slow pace, and it was unusual for the train to derail. While the cause of the derailment remains unclear, authorities have called for a thorough inspection by technicians to determine the exact reason behind the incident. -- 2024-12-27

Woman Selling Blended Drinks Found Running Illegal Loan Operation in Sattahip A woman in Sattahip, Chonburi, has been arrested after authorities discovered she was operating an illegal loan business, charging interest rates of 2% per day. Police seized a firearm and detailed records of 34 clients during the raid. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347259-woman-selling-blended-drinks-found-running-illegal-loan-operation-in-sattahip/

Picture of arrest. A woman in Sattahip, Chonburi, has been arrested after authorities discovered she was operating an illegal loan business, charging interest rates of 2% per day. Police seized a firearm and detailed records of 34 clients during the raid. The operation was led by Pol. Maj. Gen. Nuntawut Suwannalaong, Deputy Commander of Police Region 2, and Pol. Maj. Gen. Thirachai Chamnanmor, Commander of the Region 2 Investigation Division. Armed with a search warrant issued by Pattaya Provincial Court, the investigative team searched the suspect’s home, which also operated as a blended drink stall. Inside the property and the suspect’s vehicle, police found two notebooks listing detailed records of loans, including names, principal amounts, and accrued interest for 34 clients. They also confiscated a Glock 43 pistol with 12 rounds of ammunition hidden in a black shoulder bag. The homeowner, a 40-year-old woman identified only as Ms Ying, claimed the firearm belonged to her boyfriend and was legally registered. She denied being a loan shark, stating the records were old and that the loans were informal agreements among friends, relatives, and acquaintances. She further claimed the money she lent came from her earnings from selling blended drinks over the past five years. The investigation began after a group of borrowers filed a formal complaint with Region 2 Police, providing evidence of the illegal loans. Investigators confirmed that Ms Ying had been operating a loan scheme with interest rates exceeding the legal limit of 15% per annum, instead charging 2% daily. Ms Ying was charged with: 1. Lending money at interest rates exceeding the legal limit. 2. Operating an unauthorised personal loan business. She later confessed to all charges and was taken to Plutaluang Police Station for further legal proceedings. Authorities have reminded the public that lending money at exorbitant interest rates violates the law and can result in severe penalties. -- 2024-12-27

Fatal Crash: 18-Wheeler Overturns in Chiang Rai Ravine, Driver Killed Emergency services were called to an incident early morning on December 26, after an 18-wheeler lorry transporting longans lost control and plunged into a deep ravine near Khun Chae National Park in Wiang Pa Pao District, Chiang Rai. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347258-fatal-crash-18-wheeler-overturns-in-chiang-rai-ravine-driver-killed/

Picture from responders. Emergency services were called to an incident early morning on December 26, after a lorry transporting longans lost control and plunged into a deep ravine near Khun Chae National Park in Wiang Pa Pao District, Chiang Rai. The Amarin Tai Rescue Association responded to a request for assistance from the Mae Chedi Police Station. Upon arrival at the scene, rescue workers discovered the overturned lorry approximately 10 metres down a steep ravine at a sharp curve locally known as “Key Park Curve,” notorious for crashes. The male driver of the vehicle was found deceased at the scene. Using a rope system and teamwork, rescue teams carefully retrieved the driver’s body from the ravine. The remains were later transported to a local hospital, where family members will be able to claim the body. The Chiang Rai headquarters of the Amarin Tai Rescue Association, with support from its Chiang Mai branch, coordinated the recovery operation. Volunteers and officials worked to bring the situation under control. The cause of the accident is under investigation, but the area has long been recognised as a high-risk zone for road users, particularly for large vehicles. Authorities are now urging drivers to exercise extreme caution when navigating this treacherous stretch of road. -- 2024-12-27

Man Shot Dead Outside Nightclub in Khon Kaen, Gunman Believed to Have Fled Abroad Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A heated argument outside a nightclub in Khon Kaen escalated into violence early morning on December 26, leaving a 28-year-old man dead. Authorities believe the suspected shooter has fled the country. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347257-man-shot-dead-outside-nightclub-in-khon-kaen-gunman-believed-to-have-fled-abroad/

Husband and Wife Killed in Head-On Collision with Pickup Truck While En Route to Market Tragedy struck in the early hours of the morning, when a husband and wife lost their lives in a fatal head-on collision between their motorcycle with sidecar and a pickup truck. The accident occurred at approximately 01:45 near a petrol station in Sahatsakhan District, Kalasin Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347256-husband-and-wife-killed-in-head-on-collision-with-pickup-truck-while-en-route-to-market/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A heated argument outside a nightclub in Khon Kaen escalated into violence early morning on December 26, leaving a 28-year-old man dead. Authorities believe the suspected shooter has fled the country. The incident occurred at approximately 01:30 in front of a popular entertainment venue in Chum Phae district, Khon Kaen. CCTV footage from a nearby used car dealership captured the moment a group of individuals exited the nightclub and began an altercation near the entrance. Moments later, gunshots rang out, and a man in a black shirt was seen firing a handgun before fleeing the scene. The victim, identified as Kritsada, also known as Rang, aged 28, sustained multiple gunshot wounds to the torso. Bystanders rushed him to Chum Phae Hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries around 05:00 in the morning. Police identified the suspect as Nattawut, or Tong, also 28 years old and a resident of Chum Phae district. Following the shooting, Nattawut abandoned his white Honda Jazz, registered in Bangkok, and reportedly escaped in a Toyota Fortuner heading towards Loei province. According to witnesses, the victim and the suspect had a verbal confrontation inside the nightclub, which escalated into physical violence. While bystanders initially intervened to de-escalate the situation, Nattawut, still visibly upset, invited Kritsada to discuss the matter outside. During the conversation, Nattawut allegedly drew a semi-automatic handgun and fired multiple shots at Kritsada before fleeing. Police recovered seven spent bullet casings at the scene. Efforts are underway to analyse the evidence, including ballistics, to strengthen the case against the suspect. Chum Phae Police Chief Pol Col Rakchart Rueangcharoen confirmed that an arrest warrant is being sought for Nattawut on charges of premeditated murder and illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition in a public area without justification. Authorities suspect that Nattawut, along with his Laotian wife, may have fled across the border into Laos. Thai police have contacted border authorities and their counterparts in neighbouring countries to assist in the search. The shooting has sparked concerns among residents over the safety of nightlife venues in the area. Local authorities have urged club operators to cooperate with law enforcement in maintaining order and preventing similar incidents in the future. Investigations are ongoing, and authorities have appealed to the public for any information that could lead to the suspect’s arrest. -- 2024-12-27

Picture from responders Tragedy struck in the early hours of the morning of December 26, when a husband and wife lost their lives in a fatal head-on collision between their motorcycle with sidecar and a pickup truck. The accident occurred at approximately 01:45 near a petrol station in Sahatsakhan District, Kalasin Province. Emergency responders from the Eng Tek Tung Foundation were dispatched to the scene following reports of the collision. Upon arrival, they discovered a severely damaged pickup truck with its cargo scattered across the road, alongside the wreckage of the motorcycle and sidecar. The husband and wife, who had been travelling on the motorcycle, were pronounced dead at the scene. Initial investigations revealed that the couple had been on their way to a local market to sell goods and were travelling on the wrong side of the road, when the devastating crash took place, cutting their journey short. Eyewitness accounts and evidence at the scene suggest that the impact of the collision caused their merchandise to scatter across the road, adding to the chaotic aftermath of the crash. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the crash, with efforts focused on gathering witness statements and analysing the vehicles involved. The identities of the deceased have not yet been released as officials work to notify their family members. The pickup driver was taken to the police station for testing and to be interviewed. -- 2024-12-27

Wild Elephant Shot Dead in Chanthaburi Rubber Plantation Authorities in Chanthaburi are investigating the death of a wild elephant found shot in a rubber plantation near Wat Pa Khao Phai in the Kaeng Hang Maeo district. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347255-wild-elephant-shot-dead-in-chanthaburi-rubber-plantation/

Picture courtesy of Protected Area Regional Office 2 Authorities in Chanthaburi are investigating the death of a wild elephant found shot in a rubber plantation near Wat Pa Khao Phai in the Kaeng Hang Maeo district. The discovery prompted an immediate response from various authorities, including the Kaeng Hang Maeo police, military rangers, special operations unit 613 from Nong Makha, and local village leaders. They coordinated with Sriracha’s Protected Area Regional Office 2 to send a team of veterinarians to the site for an investigation. The male elephant, estimated to be between 7 and 10 years old and weighing approximately 1.5 tons, was discovered with four gunshot wounds. The elephant was found dead in the plantation, which is located near a Buddhist monastery in the area. Local residents have expressed their outrage over the killing and called for stronger measures to protect wildlife, particularly elephants, and prevent future human-wildlife conflicts. Many have suggested enhancing the monitoring and protection efforts of local wildlife patrol teams to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. Wild elephants are frequently seen in the area as they roam through forests and rubber plantations in search of food, sometimes coming into conflict with local farmers. Despite efforts to reduce such conflicts, human-wildlife encounters remain a serious issue in many rural parts of Thailand. The authorities are currently conducting a full investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the elephant’s death and to identify the individuals responsible for the shooting. They are also exploring measures to improve wildlife conservation efforts and prevent further harm to animals in the region. -- 2024-12-27

Construction Worker Falls from Pickup, Hit by Car, and Killed Near Pattaya An incident occurred when a 41-year-old construction worker fell from the back of a pickup truck and was fatally struck by a car. The incident occurred near the Keo Din highway rest area on Highway 7. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347254-construction-worker-falls-from-pickup-hit-by-car-and-killed-near-pattaya/

Picture from responders. An incident occurred at 23:05 on 25 December, when a 41-year-old construction worker fell from the back of a pickup truck and was fatally struck by a car. The incident occurred near the Keo Din highway rest area on Highway 7. Police Lieutenant Nattaphol Rittirong, Deputy Inspector of Highway Patrol Unit 1, Station 8, received the report and immediately dispatched a team to the scene, accompanied by rescue volunteers from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation in Pattaya. At the scene, authorities found the lifeless body of Mr. Vichu Simbida, a construction worker, lying in a pool of blood in the middle of the road. Rescue personnel and highway police cordoned off the area to prevent further crashes. The vehicle involved was identified as a white Honda car driven by 23-year-old Mr. Suthipong Nantta. He told police that he had been driving behind a pickup truck and another car. Both vehicles in front swerved suddenly, and despite his efforts, he was unable to avoid hitting the victim. Suthipong promptly called authorities after the incident. The victim’s employer, who was driving the pickup truck, stated that he had been transporting workers back to their accommodation. He was unaware that Mr. Vichu had fallen from the vehicle until he later learned of the fatal incident. Police Lieutenant Nattaphol has announced plans to review CCTV footage to ensure fairness for all parties involved. Meanwhile, the victim’s body has been transported to Bang Lamung Hospital, where it will be held until family members arrange for collection. Investigations are ongoing, with authorities working to clarify the sequence of events and determine accountability. -- 2024-12-27

Picture from responders. The Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Centre in Pattaya received a report at 14.00 on December 25, of a drowning incident in Soi Yensaibai. Pattaya. Rescue teams and medical staff were immediately dispatched to the scene. The incident occurred at a Yensabai Condominium. Upon arrival, responders found the victim, an 85-year-old Dutch national identified as Mr Hermann Friedhelm, unconscious and unresponsive. Witnesses, including fellow foreigners and condominium staff, were attempting to perform CPR. Sawang Boriboon rescue teams and medical personnel from Bangkok Hospital Pattaya took over and utilised an automated CPR device in an attempt to resuscitate Mr Friedhelm. Despite their efforts, there was no immediate response, prompting his urgent transfer to the hospital for further treatment. According to Mr Praiwas Supap, a 58-year-old staff member at the condominium, he heard cries for help while working on the upper floors of the building. He rushed down to investigate and immediately contacted the Pattaya rescue team for assistance. The cause of the victim’s injuries, including a head wound, remains unclear. Initial suspicions suggest he may have slipped on the steps leading to the swimming pool, hitting his head on the pool’s edge before falling into the water. Hotel management has stated that CCTV footage will be reviewed to ascertain the exact sequence of events. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident. -- 2024-12-26

Chinese Man Arrested in Pattaya for Pawn Shop Scam with Fake Gold Pattaya Tourist Police have arrested a 29-year-old Chinese man, for orchestrating a scheme involving fake gold jewellery at pawn shops across the city. The arrest took place on Pattaya Third Road, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347178-chinese-man-arrested-in-pattaya-for-pawn-shop-scam-with-fake-gold/

Picture of arrest. Pattaya Tourist Police have arrested a 29-year-old Chinese man, Mr. Deng Huanyou, for orchestrating a scheme involving fake gold jewellery at pawn shops across the city. The arrest took place on December 25, at Pattaya Third Road, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi. The suspect was caught with a forged gold bracelet weighing 3.5 baht and a pawn ticket from a local pawn shop dated the same day. Police also confiscated 80,000 baht in cash, believed to have been obtained from the fraudulent pawn. The arrest followed a series of complaints from local pawn shop owners who reported being duped by a foreign man pawning fake gold jewellery. By the time the forgery was discovered, the suspect had already fled with the cash. Upon learning of the incidents, Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueakam, Commissioner of the Tourist Police Bureau, instructed officers to track down the perpetrator swiftly. Investigators received a tip-off that the suspect had recently pawned a counterfeit gold bracelet at a well-known pawn shop on Pattaya Third Road. Police set up surveillance and intercepted Mr. Deng as he exited the shop. Upon searching him, officers found the pawn ticket, a fake gold bracelet, and the cash. Confronted with overwhelming evidence, the suspect admitted to his crime and collapsed to the ground in apparent shock, requiring assistance to stand. Mr. Deng later confessed to the charges and has been handed over to Pattaya Police for further legal proceedings. He faces charges of fraud and is expected to be prosecuted under Thai law. Authorities have urged pawn shop owners to remain vigilant against similar scams, especially during the busy holiday season. -- 2024-12-26

Fishing incident Claims Life of 37-Year-Old Man in Chonburi An incident occurred at Bang Phra Reservoir, Sriracha, Chonburi, when a 37-year-old man drowned while attempting to retrieve his drifting boat. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347175-fishing-incident-claims-life-of-37-year-old-man-in-chonburi/

Picture from responders. An incident occurred at Bang Phra Reservoir, Sriracha, Chonburi, when a 37-year-old man drowned while attempting to retrieve his drifting boat. The incident took place at the reservoir’s pier 1, where the man, later identified as Ekachai, 37, from Lampang Province, had been fishing. A witness, 47-year-old Rung, described seeing the victim’s boat break free from its mooring and drift away. The man reportedly jumped into the water to chase the boat, but something unexpected happened, leading to him not returning to the surface. Rung jumped in and attempted to rescue him but was unsuccessful. Local police and rescue divers from the Sriracha Bright Light Rescue Unit were called and launched a search and found Ekachai’s body after three to four hours. He was discovered without a shirt, wearing only trousers, and had likely been submerged for several hours, confirming the witness story. Authorities found no signs of foul play at the scene, only fishing gear and a bag. The initial theory suggests that the man may have suffered a possible sudden cramp while swimming after his boat, leading to his drowning. The body has been taken to Laem Chabang Hospital for an autopsy before being returned to the family, as the investigation continues. -- 2024-12-26

Father and Son Kill Aunt and Daughter-in-Law in Chilling Land Dispute Murder A horrific double murder took place in the village of Wang Itok, Bang Rakam District, Phitsanulok, when a father and son brutally attacked family members over a long-standing land dispute. The violence unfolded near Wat Krathum Yod Nam, leaving two women dead. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347172-father-and-son-kill-aunt-and-daughter-in-law-in-chilling-land-dispute-murder/

Picture from responders. A horrific double murder took place in the village of Wang Itok, Bang Rakam District, Phitsanulok, when a father and son brutally attacked family members over a long-standing land dispute. The violence unfolded near Wat Krathum Yod Nam, leaving two women dead. Authorities responded to a call at around 09:00, on December 25 and discovered the body of 56-year-old Jittanan, who had been bludgeoned to death with a hammer. Her skull was severely fractured, and blood was splattered across the area. About 200 metres away, they found the body of her daughter-in- law, 44-year-old Anchalee, who had been shot multiple times. The investigation revealed that the attackers were Jittanan's relatives, 48-year-old Yos and his son, 26-year-old Bank. Tensions between the families had been escalating over a land dispute, which had led to threats of violence in the past. On the day of the attack, an argument over the land issue escalated, causing Bank to lose control and strike Jittanan repeatedly with a hammer, killing her at the scene. Anchalee, witnessing the attack, attempted to escape in her car. However, she was pursued by Yos, who opened fire on her, killing her in a brutal ambush. Local residents confirmed that the father and son had been involved in previous disputes with their extended family over the land, and this conflict had been simmering for some time. The situation had previously led to threats of mass violence. After the murders, police apprehended Yos and Bank, along with the weapons used in the killings, a hammer and a firearm, which were seized as evidence. The two men are facing legal charges as the investigation into this horrific crime continues. Authorities believe the motive for the killings was the ongoing family feud over the land. -- 2024-12-26