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Picture from responders. A motorcycle collision claimed the life of a foreign man and left two others injured in Pattaya on December 24. The collision occurred at approximately midday in Soi Arunothai, Central Pattaya, when two motorcycles collided head-on. Emergency responders from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation and local volunteers rushed to the scene to provide assistance. Upon arrival, they discovered three injured individuals, including a foreign man, estimated aged about 50 to 60, whose nationality has not been disclosed. The foreign rider was lying in road in a pool of blood, having suffered serious head trauma in the collision. Despite the immediate efforts of medics, the man succumbed to his injuries while being transported to Pattaya City Hospital. The deceased foreigner was riding a blue-and-black Yamaha Aerox 155 with Chonburi registration plates. According to eyewitness accounts and preliminary police investigations, he had attempted to swerve to avoid another motorcycle but lost control, resulting in a head-on collision with a black Honda Wave motorcycle registered in Rayong. The Honda Wave was being driven by 25-year-old Mr. Pornwisit, who was accompanied by his girlfriend riding pillion. Both sustained minor injuries in the crash. Officers from Pattaya City Police Station are continuing their investigation into the incident. Statements from witnesses and the injured individuals suggest that the foreign motorcyclist lost control during his evasive manoeuvre, leading to the collision, but police will review any available CCTV to confirm. Authorities are working to determine the exact cause of the crash. -- 2024-12-25

Chicken Rice Vendor Saves Italian Tourist with CPR A heartwarming act unfolded at a local chicken rice restaurant in Phuket, when a vendor saved the life of an Italian tourist who suddenly collapsed while dining. The quick-thinking restaurant owner, who had CPR training, performed life-saving measures that ensured the tourist’s survival. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347102-chicken-rice-vendor-saves-italian-tourist-with-cpr/

Picture from responders A heartwarming act unfolded at a local chicken rice restaurant in Phuket on December 24, when a vendor saved the life of an Italian tourist who suddenly collapsed while dining. The quick-thinking restaurant owner, who had CPR training, performed life-saving measures that ensured the tourist’s survival. The incident occurred at “Ko Ta Chicken Rice” in Soi Surin, Phuket Town. According to eyewitnesses, the tourist was dining with a companion when he suddenly lost consciousness. Staff immediately called for emergency services while frantically seeking help. Lieutenant Somkiat Jiramonrat, the owner of the restaurant, was alerted by his wife and rushed to the man. “When I arrived, I saw the man unconscious. I tried shaking and patting him, but he didn’t respond. I decided to lay him flat on the floor and began performing CPR, just as I had been trained to do,” he explained. For 15 tense minutes, Somkiat continued chest compressions while waiting for emergency responders. Fortunately, a woman who identified herself as a nurse also stepped in to assist. Moments later, rescue personnel from the Kusoltham Phuket Foundation arrived, followed by an emergency medical team from Vachira Phuket Hospital. The tourist was stabilized on-site and transferred to the hospital for further treatment. Somkiat recalled that the man’s companion returned to the restaurant later that day in tears of gratitude. “They thanked me deeply. I wasn’t expecting anything, I just acted on instinct to help save a life. It brings me immense pride to know that I could assist someone in need,” he said. He added, “Tourists come to our country for enjoyment and adventure. The last thing we want is for them to face tragedy. I hope this serves as an example for others to help one another when needed and to treat visitors with kindness and care.” The incident has drawn widespread praise on social media, with many lauding Somkiat as a true hero. Netizens have also emphasized the importance of learning CPR, as it can make the difference between life and death in critical situations. The Italian tourist, now in stable condition, is expected to make a full recovery thanks to the swift intervention of Somkiat and others. -- 2024-12-25

Detached Truck Tyre Critically Injures Delivery Worker A incident unfolded on December 24, when a lorry tyre came loose and struck a delivery worker with immense force, leaving him unconscious and in critical condition at the rear of a pickup truck. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347101-detached-truck-tyre-critically-injures-delivery-worker/

Picture from responders. A incident unfolded on December 24, when a lorry wheel came loose and struck a delivery worker with immense force, leaving him unconscious and in critical condition at the rear of a pickup truck. At around midday, Police Lieutenant Boonchuen Sarasuk, an investigator with Phan Thong Police Station, was alerted to an incident involving a detached lorry wheel that injured a bystander along the Phan Thong-Ban Bueng Road in Moo 6, Nong Hong Subdistrict, Phan Thong District, Chonburi. Officers attended the scene alongside the rescue unit from the Thammarat Ratchamanirat Foundation. At the scene, a white Toyota Vigo pickup truck with the registration from Bangkok was found parked at the roadside. Mr Wichaya, aged 38, was discovered unconscious, leaning against the rear of the pickup truck alongside a stack of delivery boxes. He had no pulse and was in a critical condition. Rescue workers performed initial first aid and attempted CPR. They subsequently coordinated with medics from Phan Thong Hospital, who transported him for emergency medical treatment. A large lorry wheel was found near the pickup truck, approximately five metres away. Police found the lorry with the missing wheel parked further up the road and the driver was taking for questioning. Mr Kamon, aged 42, a colleague of the injured man, recounted the incident. He explained that the two of them had been delivering goods to a nearby shop. While Mr Kamon was inside the shop, the victim was retrieving items from the back of the truck to deliver to the customer. Suddenly, a lorry wheel rolled at high speed down the road for a distance and it forcefully struck the victim in the back, as he was leaning in through the rear doors, rendering him unconscious. Mr Kamon quickly alerted the shop owner, who called emergency services for assistance. Further investigation into the incident is ongoing. -- 2024-12-25

Udon Thani: Couple in Motorbike Crash, 1 Killed in Hit & Run In a heartbreaking incident, a couple travelling over 200 kilometres on a motorbike with a sidecar met with tragedy when a six-wheeled truck dangerously overtook them, resulting in a collision that left one dead and the other critically injured. Authorities are actively searching for the truck driver, who fled the scene. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347100-udon-thani-couple-in-motorbike-crash-1-killed-in-hit-run/

Picture from responders. In a heartbreaking incident, on December 24, a couple travelling over 200 kilometres on a motorbike with a sidecar met with tragedy when a six-wheeled truck dangerously overtook them, resulting in a collision that left one dead and the other critically injured. Authorities are actively searching for the truck driver, who fled the scene. The crash occurred on the Nittayo Road, along the Sakon Nakhon-Udon Thani route, opposite the Thai Siri Market in the Ban Khai Sanei 2 community, Udon Thani. Police and rescue teams rushed to the site after being alerted to the crash involving a Honda Wave motorbike with a sidecar and a six-wheeled truck. The deceased was identified as Mr. Somporn Tabthamat, aged 62, who sustained severe injuries to both legs. Despite rescue teams’ attempts to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the scene. A woman, believed to be his wife, was found critically injured nearby and was rushed to Udon Thani Central Hospital for urgent medical attention. The motorbike, with the Bangkok registration, was found in a wrecked condition. Among the debris, authorities discovered the couple’s belongings, including a wallet containing 4,120 baht and six lottery tickets for the January 2, 2025, draw. It was reported that the couple had been travelling from Nakhon Phanom to Nong Bua Lamphu, a journey of nearly 200 kilometres. They were suddenly cut off by a six-wheeled truck carrying gravel, which abruptly turned into a side street without warning. Unable to brake in time, the motorbike collided with the truck. The driver of the truck fled the scene immediately after the crash. Police are reviewing CCTV footage from the area to identify and apprehend the driver of the truck to face legal consequences. The couple’s long journey, possibly for an important purpose, ended in unimaginable sorrow, with their destination left unfulfilled. Authorities urge all road users to exercise caution and respect while sharing the roads. -- 2024-12-25

Suspected Arson Sparks Forest Fire Near Recycling Shop in Chonburi A forest fire near a recycling shop in Nong Pla Lai Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi, escalated into chaos as flames spread to a pile of waste materials, requiring multiple fire trucks and numerous firefighters to bring it under control. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347098-suspected-arson-sparks-forest-fire-near-recycling-shop-in-chonburi/

Picture and video from responders. A forest fire near a recycling shop in Nong Pla Lai Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi, escalated into chaos as flames spread to a pile of waste materials, requiring multiple fire trucks and numerous firefighters to bring it under control. The incident occurred around noon on December 24, prompting a rapid response from local disaster relief teams, including those from the Nong Pla Lai and Takhian Tia municipalities and Pattaya’s land disaster prevention unit. Rescue personnel from the Sawang Boriboon Foundation also assisted with specialised equipment, while police from the Bang Lamung Police Station coordinated at the scene. The fire originated behind the recycling shop, which spans approximately eight rai of land. The flames quickly engulfed a large pile of discarded plastic bottles and other waste materials. Access to the source of the fire proved challenging for fire trucks, necessitating the use of a backhoe to create pathways and contain the blaze. After two gruelling hours, firefighters successfully extinguished the fire. Mr. Suriya 55, the shop owner, said he had been preparing to leave for an errand when an employee alerted him to the fire. He immediately returned and contacted emergency services for assistance. Preliminary investigations indicate that the fire began in the forested area behind the shop, which borders the site where plastic waste had been piled. The flames from the forest fire spread to the shop’s waste materials, but the exact cause of the blaze remains unknown. Authorities are investigating whether the fire was started deliberately. -- 2024-12-25 ScreenRecording_12-24-2024 17-53-59_1.mp4

37-Year-Old Man Shot Dead by Father After Heated Argument Over Laziness A shooting took place in the early hours of 24 December in Chiang Kham district, Phayao province. Police from Chiang Kham Station were alerted to a fatal shooting at house number 39/1, Moo 21, Rom Yen subdistrict, at approximately 01:30. Officers rushed to the scene alongside forensic experts and rescue personnel. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347097-37-year-old-man-shot-dead-by-father-after-heated-argument-over-laziness/

Picture from responders. A shooting took place in the early hours of 24 December in Chiang Kham district, Phayao province. Police from Chiang Kham Station were alerted to a fatal shooting at house number 39/1, Moo 21, Rom Yen subdistrict, at approximately 01:30. Officers rushed to the scene alongside forensic experts and rescue personnel. The incident occurred at a two-storey house made of concrete and wood. The lifeless body of Mr. Rungreung Sakchaipiboon, 37, was found lying on his back in the ground-floor living area. Beside his body lay a machete. He had sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the abdomen. Shortly after the incident, Mr. Wisut Sakchaipiboon, 58, the victim's father, turned himself in at Chiang Kham Police Station. He surrendered a 12-gauge double-barrelled shotgun without a serial number and a spent shotgun shell. During questioning, Mr. Wisut confessed to shooting his son. He explained that he had confronted his son about not contributing to household chores or seeking employment. The son reportedly became enraged and grabbed a machete, threatening to attack his father. In response, Mr. Wisut said he fired a single shot at his son in self-defence. After the shooting, Mr. Wisut immediately surrendered to authorities. Police have charged him with premeditated murder, illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, and discharging a firearm in a residential area. Neighbours revealed that the father and son frequently argued. According to witnesses, the victim often refused to help with household tasks and became aggressive when reprimanded, sometimes physically assaulting family members. -- 2024-12-25

UPDATE Retired Civil Servant Faces Serious Charges After Fatal School Crash The devastating road crash in front of Don Khwang School on Phet Matukala Road in Hua Thale Subdistrict, Mueang District, Nakhon Ratchasima, has claimed two lives and injured several others. Among the fatalities was Police Lieutenant Vimut Tansupho, 57, a traffic officer from Nakhon Ratchasima City Police Station, who was performing his duties at the time of the incident. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347096-retired-civil-servant-faces-serious-charges-after-fatal-school-crash/

UPDATE Picture from responders The devastating road crash in front of Don Khwang School on Phet Matukala Road in Hua Thale Subdistrict, Mueang District, Nakhon Ratchasima, has claimed two lives and injured several others. Among the fatalities was Police Lieutenant Vimut Tansupho, 57, a traffic officer from Nakhon Ratchasima City Police Station, who was performing his duties at the time of the incident. The driver responsible for the crash has been identified as Somsak Asaraijao, 75, a retired civil servant and former provincial agricultural officer in Nong Khai. A breathalyser test revealed that his blood alcohol level was 197 milligrams per cent, well over the legal limit. On December 24, Pol Maj Gen Narongrit Dansuwan, Commander of the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Police, announced that the driver will face severe legal consequences. Somsak has been charged with drink driving causing death and serious injury, offences that carry severe penalties. The penalty for drink driving resulting in death includes 3 to 10 years’ imprisonment, fines ranging from 60,000 to 200,000 baht, and permanent revocation of the driving licence. Meanwhile, drink driving causing serious injury carries a sentence of 2 to 6 years in prison, fines between 40,000 and 120,000 baht, and a minimum one-year suspension or permanent revocation of the driving licence. Somsak has been discharged from the hospital and is now in police custody at Nakhon Ratchasima City Police Station. His relatives have sought to post bail, but authorities have denied the request. Investigations are ongoing, and police plan to seek court approval to detain him further. Police Lt Vimut, who tragically died while on duty, is being honoured by the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Police. His family will receive full support, including a promotion of three salary steps and a posthumous rank elevation from Police Lieutenant to Police Lieutenant Colonel. Preliminary investigations revealed that prior to the accident, Somsak had been drinking with friends at a restaurant in Nakhon Ratchasima City. He was driving home to Chaloem Phra Kiat District at high speed when the crash occurred. He claims to have no recollection of the events leading to the crash. The case has caused widespread outrage, with authorities vowing to prosecute to the fullest extent of the law. Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1347009-police-officer-student-killed-11-injured-in-school-crash-in-nakhon-ratchasima/ Police Lieutenant Vimut Tansupho -- 2024-12-25

Thai Customs Seize E-Cigarettes, Nitrous Oxide, & Coin Changers Worth Over 30 Million Baht The Thai Customs Department announced the seizure of illicit goods, including e-cigarettes, nitrous oxide, and automatic coin changers, with an estimated value exceeding 30 million baht. The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Customs Department headquarters in Klong Toey, led by Mr Panthong Loykulnanta, Advisor on Tax Development and Collection, and Ms Nanththita Sirikup, Advisor on Customs Control Development. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347095-thai-customs-seize-e-cigarettes-nitrous-oxide-coin-changers-worth-over-30-million-baht/

Picture courtesy of Thai Customs The Thai Customs Department announced the seizure of illicit goods, including e-cigarettes, nitrous oxide, and automatic coin changers, with an estimated value exceeding 30 million baht. The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Customs Department headquarters in Klong Toey, led by Mr Panthong Loykulnanta, Advisor on Tax Development and Collection, and Ms Nanththita Sirikup, Advisor on Customs Control Development. Mr Panthong stated that the operation was part of the government’s directive to combat illegal imports of e-cigarettes and related products. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, alongside Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Phichai Chunhavachira and Deputy Finance Minister Chulaphan Amornwiwat, prioritised strict enforcement against these illicit activities. Customs Director-General Teerachai Attanawanich had instructed officials to intensify surveillance, apprehend violators, and collaborate with other agencies, including the Ministry of Commerce, Ministry of Interior, Consumer Protection Board, and the Royal Thai Police, to investigate smuggling operations. The confiscated items were discovered during inspections on 17 and 19 December at the Bangkok Port Customs Office. Two shipping containers from China contained undeclared goods, including: 1. Disposable E-Cigarettes: 112,600 units valued at 28.15 million baht. These items are prohibited under the 2014 Ministry of Commerce directive, which bans the importation of hookahs and e-cigarettes. 2. Nitrous Oxide Gas (Laughing Gas): 770 canisters, each weighing 5 kilograms, valued at 1.925 million baht. Importing nitrous oxide requires a permit from the Food and Drug Administration under the 1967 Drug Act. 3. Automatic Coin Changers: 18 machines valued at 360,000 baht. The importation of these goods constitutes a violation of the 2017 Customs Act (Sections 202, 243, 244, and 252), the 1967 Drug Act, and the 1979 Export and Import Act. Violators face prosecution for providing false or incomplete information to evade taxes and restrictions. Mr Panthong further highlighted the Customs Department’s achievements in the 2024 fiscal year (1 October 2023 – 23 December 2023), during which 103 cases of e-cigarette smuggling were recorded, involving 416,560 items valued at 39.07 million baht. The Customs Department urges importers and exporters to adhere strictly to relevant laws and regulations, reiterating its commitment to rigorous enforcement to protect society and the nation’s interests. -- 2024-12-25

Big Bike Rider Killed in Phuket Road Crash A fatal motorcycle crash occurred in the afternoon of December 24, in the Thalang district of Phuket when a big bike collided with a palm tree in the central reservation of Thepkrasattri Road. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347094-big-bike-rider-killed-in-phuket-road-crash/

Picture from responders. A fatal motorcycle crash occurred in the afternoon of December 24, in the Thalang district of Phuket when a big bike collided with a palm tree in the central reservation of Thepkrasattri Road. Lieutenant Napadon Somnuk, an investigator from Thalang Police Station, received a report at 15:10 about the crash near Moo 8, Thepkrasattri subdistrict. Emergency responders from Thepkrasattri Subdistrict Administrative Organisation and the Kusoltham Phuket Foundation were dispatched to the scene. At the crash site, officers found a red-and-black Kawasaki big bike, registered in Phuket, lying on its side, damaged. Nearby, the lifeless body of the rider, identified as Mr Panaprai Sukcharoen, 26, was discovered in a pool of blood. An inspection of the scene revealed that the motorcycle had left a long trail on the grass of the central reservation, colliding with a streetlight pole before crashing into a palm tree. Initial investigations found no evidence of another vehicle being involved. Authorities suspect that the rider was travelling at high speed and lost control, causing the him to veer onto the central reservation and strike the obstacles, resulting in his death. Police have stated that CCTV footage from the area will be reviewed to establish the exact cause of the crash. -- 2024-12-25

Teachers & Students Flee as Fire Breaks Out in Building in Pattaya School A fire broke out at Pattaya City School 8, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi, causing some chaos as teachers and students rushed to evacuate. The incident occurred in a disused learning centre adjacent to the kindergarten building, prompting a swift response from local disaster prevention officers, fire trucks, and rescue teams from the Sawang Boriboon Foundation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347093-teachers-students-flee-as-fire-breaks-out-in-building-in-pattaya-school/

Picture from responders. A fire broke out at Pattaya City School 8, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi, causing some chaos as teachers and students rushed to evacuate. The incident occurred in a disused learning centre adjacent to the kindergarten building, prompting a swift response from local disaster prevention officers, fire trucks, and rescue teams from the Sawang Boriboon Foundation. The Pattaya City Police Station was also called to assist at the scene. The fire, which produced smoke throughout the building, originated in the “Learning Centre for ASEAN” room, located next to the kindergarten building. Teachers urgently evacuated the students from the premises while fire crews worked to investigate the situation. Upon investigation, the source of the blaze was found under the staircase leading to the second floor, where a pile of burning paper was discovered. Firefighters managed to extinguish the flames before they could spread further. According to Mr. Montree Namkeeree, the headmaster of Pattaya City School 8, the room where the fire started had been unused for a long time. Although the door was closed, it had not been locked. Preliminary police investigations suggest that an unauthorised individual may have accessed the room, discarded a lit cigarette onto paper, and inadvertently sparked the fire before fleeing the scene. Authorities are continuing their investigation to confirm the exact cause of the incident. No injuries were reported, but the event highlighted the need for heightened safety and security measures in school facilities. -- 2024-12-25

Cyber Police Crack Down on Major Gambling Ring in Chiang Rai A significant crackdown on online gambling networks was led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Trirong Phiewphan, Commissioner of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), along with senior officers, resulting in multiple arrests and the seizure of large amounts of equipment and cash. The operation targeted three locations across Chiang Rai province, uncovering a network with over 1 billion baht in financial turnover. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347092-cyber-police-crack-down-on-major-gambling-ring-in-chiang-rai/

Picture courtesy of CCIB A significant crackdown on online gambling networks was led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Trirong Phiewphan, Commissioner of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), along with senior officers, resulting in multiple arrests and the seizure of large amounts of equipment and cash. The operation targeted three locations across Chiang Rai province, uncovering a network with over 1 billion baht in financial turnover. Armed with search warrants from the Chiang Rai Provincial Court, the team conducted simultaneous raids: 1. Location 1: A house in Moo 4, Ban Du Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Rai District, where four suspects were arrested — Ms. Chanantida (24), Ms. Waranya (23), Ms. Chutima (24), and Ms. Aranyarat (20). Seized items included four computers, ten mobile phones, and three barcode scanners. 2. Location 2: A house at 509/38, Moo 9, Ban Du Subdistrict, where three suspects — Second Lieutenant Suporada, Ms. Suttita, and Ms. Saranporn , were apprehended. Confiscated items included five computers, 39 mobile phones, three tablets, one router, 20 bank account books, and 25 ATM cards. 3. Location 3: A residence in Moo 13, Mae Sai District, where Mr. Natthapong (30) was arrested. Authorities seized one computer, one mobile phone, and one router. Pol. Lt. Gen. Trirong stated that the operation followed government orders to combat online gambling, which negatively impacts society. Investigations revealed complaints about online gambling platforms operating in Chiang Rai. The OK2D website, identified as a major player, had 80,344 registered members and generated 200 million baht in monthly transactions. During the raids, eight suspects were arrested, and authorities confiscated cash totaling 130,000 baht, along with substantial digital and physical evidence. The suspects admitted to being employed as administrators to handle marketing, manage withdrawals, and oversee operations. Further investigations unveiled connections to 2-3 additional gambling websites with over 200,000 users and a combined turnover exceeding 1 billion baht. A site in Mae Sai was also found illegally transmitting internet signals to neighboring countries. Authorities plan to collaborate with the Chiang Rai Provincial Police to expand the investigation and dismantle the remaining networks. -- 2024-12-25

Man Dies After Car Crashes into Electric Pole and Road Sign in Lamphun A crash occurred in the early hours of the morning, when a car crashed into an electric pole and road sign, subsequently catching fire. The driver, a 30-year-old man, was critically injured and later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347091-man-dies-after-car-crashes-into-electric-pole-and-road-sign-in-lamphun /

Picture from responders. A crash occurred in the early hours of the morning of December 24, when a car crashed into an electric pole and road sign, subsequently catching fire. The driver, a 30-year-old man, was critically injured and later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. The incident took place at 01:10 on the central island of the road in Ban Pratu Khong, Mueang District, Lamphun. Rescue teams from Amarin Tai Lamphun and officers from Nikhom Police Station responded to the scene. Upon arrival, responders found a severely damaged car with flames coming the vehicle’s body. Fire extinguishers were used to successfully douse the fire. The driver was trapped inside the wreckage and had to be extricated using hydraulic rescue tools. The victim, who was unconscious and in critical condition, was immediately administered CPR at the scene. He was then transported to Prince Lamphun Hospital by ambulance. Shortly after the crash, the victim’s partner arrived at the scene with their seven-month-old son. She revealed that the couple had argued earlier in the evening. The incident occurred on the last working day before the New Year holidays, following a gathering where alcohol was consumed. The driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, crashing into the electric pole and road sign. Despite the medical team’s efforts, the man succumbed to his injuries a short while later. Authorities have expressed their condolences to the victim’s family and are continuing investigations into the circumstances of the accident. -- 2024-12-25

Two Arrested for Attempted Sale of Modified Firearms via Social Media Two young men were apprehended by Metropolitan Police investigators for attempting to sell modified firearms after arranging a transaction via social media. The arrests took place near the Patthavikorn Market on Nawamin Road, Bangkok. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1347090-two-arrested-for-attempted-sale-of-modified-firearms-via-social-media/

Picture of arrest. Two young men were apprehended by Metropolitan Police investigators on 23 December, for attempting to sell modified firearms after arranging a transaction via social media. The arrests took place near the Patthavikorn Market on Nawamin Road, Bangkok. Pol. Maj. Gen. Teeradej Thammasuthee, Commander of the Investigation Division, stated that the operation was conducted in line with the national police policy to crack down on firearm-related crimes, which often lead to serious and violent incidents. The suspects, identified as Mr. Linda, a 19-year-old Cambodian national, and Mr. Phee aged 17, face charges of illegally possessing and attempting to sell firearms, possessing and carrying weapons in public without proper justification, and carrying illegal knives. The arrests followed an undercover operation led by Pol. Lt. Col. Somporn Kamket and his team. Police had been monitoring social media platforms for illicit firearm transactions. Acting on a tip-off, authorities learned that Mr. Phee had been using a Facebook account to sell modified firearms. He had offered a customised .380 calibre pistol with ammunition for 12,500 baht and arranged to meet a buyer at the market. At approximately 19:45 on 23 December, Mr. Phee arrived at the meeting point on a motorcycle driven by Mr. Linda. Police surveillance teams observed the suspects, and when the weapon and ammunition were verified, officers moved in to arrest them. While attempting to flee, Mr. Linda was also apprehended. A subsequent search revealed an illegal knife in his possession. Both suspects were taken into custody along with the evidence and transported to the Metropolitan Police Bureau for further questioning. During interrogation, Mr. Phee admitted to selling the firearm, while Mr. Linda claimed he was accompanying Mr. Phee to purchase items in the area and carried the knife for self-defence. The suspects have been charged with: • Illegal possession and attempted sale of firearms and ammunition • Illegal possession of a knife • Carrying weapons in public without valid justification They were later handed over to the Bueng Kum Police Station for prosecution under the Firearms and Ammunition Act. Pol. Maj. Gen. Teeradej highlighted that firearms are often the root cause of violent crimes, including armed robbery and youth violence. He stressed that the Metropolitan Police are committed to tackling illegal firearm trade and warned both buyers and sellers of the severe penalties they face. For buyers: Purchasing firearms online without authorisation carries penalties of 1-10 years in prison and fines of 2,000-20,000 baht. For sellers: Manufacturing, assembling, or selling firearms without a licence carries penalties of 2-20 years in prison and fines of 4,000-40,000 baht. Authorities urged the public to refrain from engaging in illegal firearm transactions and report any suspicious activities to the police. -- 2024-12-25