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Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A series of swimming incidents has claimed the lives of two foreign tourists in Phuket over the past two days, while a third remains in critical condition. The incidents occurred at popular beaches despite the presence of lifeguards on duty. At approximately 15:50 on 11 June, emergency responders from the Karon Municipality Rescue Unit were alerted by beach lifeguards to a foreign male tourist found unconscious in the waters off Kata Beach. Upon arrival, rescue personnel discovered the man showing no signs of life. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was administered on site. The man was transferred to a hospital ambulance dispatched from Chalong Hospital and transported urgently to the facility. He was identified as Mr. Yevgeniy Keminsky, a 41-year-old national of Kazakhstan. Despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Authorities at Chalong Police Station launched an investigation and the Kazakh embassy has been informed to assist in repatriating the body. Shortly afterwards, at around 16:00, another incident was reported. Rescue services from the Cherng Talay Subdistrict Administration were summoned to Bang Tao Beach, near Soi Kubor in Thalang District. A foreign female tourist, believed to be approximately 40 years old, had been caught in a rip current. Lifeguards managed to pull her from the surf, where she was found unconscious and without a pulse. Immediate CPR was administered by both lifeguards and fellow tourists before she was transferred to Thalang Hospital. Her current condition is reported as critical. These back-to-back incidents followed another fatality the previous day. On 10 June, a 41-year-old Albanian woman, visiting Phuket for the first time, drowned while swimming with her partner off Karon Beach. Authorities have urged beachgoers to remain vigilant, obey posted safety warnings and be aware of dangerous sea conditions, particularly during the current monsoon season. Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1363285-phuket-foreign-woman-drowns-just-hours-after-arriving-on-holiday/ Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-12

Chinese Man with Elite Visa Caught Operating Illegal Tour Business in Bangkok Picture courtesy of Matichon. A Chinese national holding a Thailand Elite visa has been arrested for illegally operating a full-scale tour service in Bangkok, including car transfers and guided visits to major tourist sites such as the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363395-chinese-man-with-elite-visa-caught-operating-illegal-tour-business-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A Chinese national holding a Thailand Elite visa has been arrested for illegally operating a full-scale tour service in Bangkok, including car transfers and guided visits to major tourist sites such as the Grand Palace and Wat Phra Kaew. On 11 June, police investigators observed suspicious activity involving three vehicles transporting tourists to prominent landmarks including the Grand Palace and Tha Chang Pier. Officers from a special operations unit tracked the movements and confirmed that the suspect was conducting unauthorised tour operations in violation of Thai tourism laws. The suspect, identified only as “Mr B”, a 25-year-old Chinese national, was apprehended at Tha Chang Pier on Maharaj Road. Authorities charged him with operating a tour business without a licence as required under the Tourism Business and Guide Act. He also faces charges for working without a valid work permit and engaging in work beyond the scope permitted under his visa status. Mr B, who entered the country on a Thailand Elite visa, a long-stay visa programme aimed at affluent foreign nationals, had allegedly been running a private tour operation offering high-end experiences for visiting Chinese tourists. This included vehicle transfers and personally guided tours of historic sites in the heart of Bangkok. He was taken into custody and handed over to investigators at Chana Songkhram Police Station for legal proceedings. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to cracking down on illegal tourism operators, especially those circumventing laws under the guise of legitimate residency or visa programmes. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-12

Bangkok: Cement Truck Hits Mother and Daughter, Both Killed Instantly Pictures courtesy of Workpoint. A collision in the Sai Mai district of Bangkok has claimed the lives of a 38-year-old mother and her 9-year-old daughter after a cement mixer truck sideswiped their motorcycle, killing both at the scene. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363393-bangkok-cement-truck-hits-mother-and-daughter-both-killed-instantly/

Pictures courtesy of Workpoint. A collision in the Sai Mai district of Bangkok has claimed the lives of a 38-year-old mother and her 9-year-old daughter after a cement mixer truck sideswiped their motorcycle, killing both at the scene. The incident occurred at 16:35 on 11 June, on Soi Sai Mai 51, off Sai Mai Road, when the truck driver veered into the left lane and struck the motorcycle, which was being driven in a reported normal manner. Eyewitnesses reported that the force of the collision caused both victims to be thrown from the vehicle and die instantly. The driver of the cement mixer attempted to flee the scene, locking himself in the cab of the truck and continuing to drive. However, a local security guard and concerned citizens gave chase and intercepted the vehicle on Soi Sai Mai 63. After a tense standoff, members of the public were able to pressure the driver into exiting the vehicle, where he was held before being handed over to police officers. The husband of the deceased woman, Mr. Wuttichai Chansena, 41, arrived at the site of the crash. Mr. Wuttichai recounted the moment he discovered the news. He had returned home early from work for reasons he couldn’t explain. As he passed the scene on a bus, he noticed a crash had taken place, but emergency responders had already covered the bodies with a tarp. It wasn’t until he reached home and realised his wife and daughter had not returned that he began to panic. Repeated calls to his wife’s phone went unanswered. He borrowed a friend’s motorcycle and returned to the scene, where he saw a photo taken at the time of the crash. Recognising their motorcycle in the image, he realised with horror that his wife and daughter were the victims. A local security guard, Ms. Wanwisa Anurakdilok, who witnessed the crash, confirmed that the cement mixer had drifted into the motorcycle’s lane without warning. She noted that another security guard had immediately followed the truck after it fled the scene. A lawyer representing the cement truck driver contacted the family of the victims and offered to cover transportation and funeral costs totalling 50,000 baht. The family has yet to discuss full compensation, but the driver’s representatives have reportedly promised to provide further support and reparations. Adapted by Asean Now from Workpoint 2025-06-12

Drama as Bung Fai Rocket Crashes Through Classroom Ceiling in Yasothon Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A dramatic incident unfolded on the afternoon if 11 June, when a traditional rocket (bung fai) crashed through the ceiling of a classroom at Ban Khui Tub Tao School in Khum Ngern sub-district, Mueang District, Yasothon Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363392-drama-as-bung-fai-rocket-crashes-through-classroom-ceiling-in-yasothon/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A dramatic incident unfolded on the afternoon if 11 June, when a traditional rocket (bung fai) crashed through the ceiling of a classroom at Ban Khui Tub Tao School in Khum Ngern sub-district, Mueang District, Yasothon Province. The incident occurred at approximately 15:00. According to local reports, the rocket penetrated the classroom ceiling and embedded itself into the floor, narrowly missing both teachers and students who were present during a lesson. Initial investigations suggest the rocket may have originated from a launch site in Don Phra Chan village, Phanom Phrai sub-district, Phanom Phrai District in neighbouring Roi Et Province. The school has since recorded photographic evidence of the incident and authorities are now working to trace the source of the rogue rocket and ensure appropriate measures are taken. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. However, the event has raised fresh concerns about the safety and regulation of traditional rocket festivals in northeastern Thailand, especially in proximity to populated areas such as schools. Authorities are urging those responsible for future launches to exercise extreme caution and adhere strictly to safety protocols. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-12

Royal Thai Navy Wins National Innovation Award for Groundbreaking Cancer Treatment System Picture courtesy of Sattahip News The Royal Thai Navy has achieved national acclaim beyond its traditional role of maritime defence, earning a prestigious Public Sector Innovation Award for 2025 from the Office of the Public Sector Development Commission (OPDC) for its cutting-edge medical advancement: the SmartMed Infusion System. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363391-royal-thai-navy-wins-national-innovation-award-for-groundbreaking-cancer-treatment-system/

Picture courtesy of Sattahip News The Royal Thai Navy has achieved national acclaim beyond its traditional role of maritime defence, earning a prestigious Public Sector Innovation Award for 2025 from the Office of the Public Sector Development Commission (OPDC) for its cutting-edge medical advancement: the SmartMed Infusion System. Developed by the Naval Medical Department, this intelligent chemotherapy drug delivery system is hailed as a major leap forward in cancer treatment, particularly in procedures involving Transarterial Chemoembolisation (TACE) for liver cancer patients. The SmartMed Infusion System stands out for its: • Fully automated chemotherapy administration, • Enhanced safety and precision, significantly reducing human error, • Minimal contact with hazardous drugs for medical personnel, and • Successful implementation in real surgical environments. This medical innovation is the result of tireless collaboration by a multidisciplinary team, spearheaded by Captain Dr Tharengkiat Jamulitrat, Head of Radiology at Somdej Phra Pinklao Hospital and Ms Salinda Kitiboonya, a radiologic technologist, alongside a team of expert engineers. Their work represents a beacon of hope for patients and healthcare providers alike. Support and collaboration from the Taiwanese government also played a key role in realising this innovation, underscoring the importance of international cooperation in advancing global healthcare. The SmartMed Infusion System exemplifies the Royal Thai Navy’s evolving mission, no longer limited to safeguarding the nation’s waters, but also leading in medical innovation for the benefit of all Thais. This achievement reflects a bold vision to elevate Thailand’s healthcare system to international standards and ensure safer, more effective treatments for critical conditions like cancer. The public is encouraged to share in this national pride and offer support to the Royal Thai Navy’s continued contributions on both the battlefield and in the battle for better health. Adapted by Asean Now from Sattahip News 2025-06-12

UPDATE Murder Suspect in Car Shooting of Partner Detained Picture courtesy of Amarin A car salesman accused of fatally shooting his partner and leaving her body in a parked car has been remanded in custody, while showing signs of severe mental distress. Police have opposed bail on grounds of the seriousness of the crime and potential flight risk. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363166-body-of-woman-found-in-car-with-engine-left-running-for-12-hours/#findComment-19864919

UPDATE Murder Suspect in Car Shooting of Partner Detained Picture courtesy of Amarin A car salesman accused of fatally shooting his partner and leaving her body in a parked car has been remanded in custody, while showing signs of severe mental distress. Police have opposed bail on grounds of the seriousness of the crime and potential flight risk. The suspect, 34-year-old Mr. Meepaphat, was taken to the Thonburi Criminal Court on the morning of 11 June, by investigators from Phetkasem Police Station. He faces multiple charges, including murder, illegal possession of a firearm (registered but not under his name), unlawful public carrying of a weapon and discharging a firearm without cause. The body of the victim, his girlfriend, was discovered inside a vehicle on Soi Phetkasem 67, Sub-soi 8, Bangkok. CCTV footage and forensic evidence appear to support the charge of murder. Forensic analysis indicates the shot was fired from the rear seat, striking the woman in the back of the head and exiting through her right temple before shattering the driver’s side window. According to police, Mr. Meepaphat spent the night pacing restlessly in his holding cell, showing signs of agitation and anxiety. When his elder brother and relatives visited him at the police station earlier in the day, they reported that he was incoherent and unresponsive. The family has since indicated they are unlikely to seek bail. As the suspect was escorted to the police van for transfer to court, reporters attempted to question him about his motives. Mr. Meepaphat remained largely silent, offering no insight into the events or his reasoning. He did, however, quietly express a desire to apologise to the victim and said he still loved their child. Visibly emotional, he clutched a handkerchief in his fist as the van drove off. Though he denied all charges during initial questioning and gave what police described as “confused and circular” answers, officers do not believe the suspect was intoxicated or suffering from any psychiatric disorder. His official statement was given in the presence of a lawyer and his brother. Investigators are continuing their work to confirm the bullet trajectory and examine the vehicle in further detail. A second vehicle, which the suspect reportedly drove alongside the victim’s car to stop it, prior to the shooting, is still missing. Police are working to locate it as part of the broader investigation. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-06-12

Drug Dealer Shot Dead After Knife Attack on Police During Pursuit in Nonthaburi Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 34-year-old suspected drug dealer was fatally shot by police after a dramatic chase and violent confrontation in Nonthaburi province on the evening of 10 June. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363389-drug-dealer-shot-dead-after-knife-attack-on-police-during-pursuit-in-nonthaburi/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 34-year-old suspected drug dealer was fatally shot by police after a dramatic chase and violent confrontation in Nonthaburi province on the evening of 10 June. The incident occurred around 19:30, when patrol officers from Mueang Nonthaburi Police Station attempted to stop a man suspected of possessing illegal narcotics. The suspect, later identified as Mr Rattawat, also known as “Ae Sai Ma”, fled on a Honda Wave 125 motorcycle, leading police on a high-speed pursuit. Officers followed the suspect from Tiwanon Road through several intersections until he veered into Soi Wat Chomphuwek, in Tha Sai Subdistrict, Mueang District. Attempting to evade capture, the suspect lost control of his motorcycle after hitting a speed bump and crashed in front of a factory. As police approached, Mr Rattawat attempted to flee on foot while carrying a black shoulder bag and a plastic bag containing large quantities of yaba (methamphetamine pills) and crystal meth. When officers caught up with him, he drew a knife and tried to stab one of them. Sergeant Nattawat Ketkaew, one of the pursuing officers, shouted at the suspect to drop the weapon. When the suspect ignored the command and attempted to lunge again, Sgt Nattawat fired in self-defence, hitting the suspect. Officers immediately administered first aid and called emergency medical services. Despite being rushed to Phra Nang Klao Hospital, Mr Rattawat succumbed to his injuries. At the scene, police recovered the knife used in the attack, the black bag, and plastic-wrapped narcotics. His damaged motorcycle, bearing a Pathum Thani licence plate, was found 10 metres away from the point of arrest. Police Corporal Nakarin Panan, the officer nearly stabbed during the altercation, credited his narrow escape to a Buddhist amulet and a protective charm made from his mother’s tooth, both of which he wore around his neck. Prior to the incident, both officers had received intelligence about a planned drug handover in the area and had been patrolling in response. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-12

Lorry Driver Crashes into Power Pole in Tak Province Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 56-year-old man was killed instantly after his 22-wheeled articulated lorry overturned and slammed into a power pole along a notoriously steep road in Tak province on the evening of 10 June. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363388-lorry-driver-crashes-into-power-pole-in-tak-province/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 56-year-old man was killed instantly after his 22-wheeled articulated lorry overturned and slammed into a power pole along a notoriously steep road in Tak province on the evening of 10 June. The crash occurred around 17:00 near Pang Manora, Village 6, in Mae Pa Subdistrict, Mae Sot District. According to reports received by the 191 emergency radio centre, the lorry overturned and blocked almost two lanes of the Tak–Mae Sot highway, inbound direction, just before the notorious “Mystery Hill” incline. Emergency responders from Pitak Karn Rescue Unit rushed to the scene, where they found the Hino lorry overturned, with its cab against a fallen power pole on the central road divider. The skid marks on the road stretched over 150 metres, indicating a last-minute attempt to avoid the collision. The driver, later identified as Mr. Supasak, a resident of Wang Thong District in Phitsanulok, was found trapped inside the mangled cabin. Rescue personnel used hydraulic cutting tools to extract his body, after he was pronounced dead at the scene. His body was later transported to Mae Sot Hospital for further examination. Police believe the driver, who was travelling alone with no passengers, was unfamiliar with the route, which includes several dangerous curves and gradients. Investigators from Mae Sot Police Station, led by Pol. Lt. Manun Donlao, are working to confirm the precise cause of the crash. The road remained partially blocked for several hours as authorities cleared the wreckage and inspected damage to the power infrastructure. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-12

Air Force Officer Missing After Boat Capsizes in Mekong River During Drug Patrol Picture courtesy of SiamNews. A Royal Thai Air Force officer is still missing after a boat carrying three military personnel capsized in the fast-flowing Mekong River during a reconnaissance mission to investigate suspected narcotics activity. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363386-air-force-officer-missing-after-boat-capsizes-in-mekong-river-during-drug-patrol/

Picture courtesy of SiamNews. A Royal Thai Air Force officer is still missing after a boat carrying three military personnel capsized in the fast-flowing Mekong River during a reconnaissance mission to investigate suspected narcotics activity. The incident occurred on the evening of 10 June, near Bung Khi Lek village in Na Wang subdistrict, Khemarat district, Ubon Ratchathani province. The officers were conducting a patrol as part of an anti-narcotics operation along the Thai-Lao border. The three servicemen were identified as: • Flight Sergeant Major Sukkasem Promphanchai, Special Operations Unit 2, Company 2, Battalion 2, Special Operations Regiment, Air Force Security Command (missing), • Flight Sergeant Major Suwat Phoolanates, Weapons Specialist, Company 3, Sniper Regiment, Battalion 1, Special Operations Regiment, Air Force Security Command, • Sergeant Chitsanupong Atpanya, Senior Specialist, Special Operations, Company 2, Battalion 2, Special Operations Regiment, Air Force Security Command. The officers, after spotting a suspicious fertiliser sack believed to contain illegal drugs on a rock formation about 500 metres from the Thai riverbank, borrowed a local fishing boat to approach the location. However, the vessel capsized in strong currents and whirlpools near the rocky islet. Two of the officers managed to swim to safety, but Flight Sergeant Major Sukkasem Promphanchai was swept away and is currently still missing. Divers from the Royal Thai Navy were deployed to search the area. While the sunken boat has been located, there is still no sign of the missing officer as the search continues. The special operations team had recently been deployed to reinforce border security efforts following the redeployment of the 23rd Ranger Regiment to the Chong Bok area of Nam Yuen district, also in Ubon Ratchathani. Authorities say the mission was part of ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking across the Mekong, a major conduit for narcotics smuggling in the region. Adapted by Asean Now from SiamNews 2025-06-12

Driver Crashes into Lampang Market, Police Uniform, Gun & Radio Found in Car Picture courtesy of Matichon. A man was found unconscious behind the wheel of a car that crashed into the middle of a fresh market in Lampang in the early hours of the morning of 11 June. Authorities were stunned to discover a police uniform, a firearm and a two-way radio inside the vehicle. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363385-driver-crashes-into-lampang-market-police-uniform-gun-radio-found-in-car/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A man was found unconscious behind the wheel of a car that crashed into the middle of a fresh market in Lampang in the early hours of the morning of 11 June. Authorities were stunned to discover a police uniform, a firearm and a two-way radio inside the vehicle. The incident occurred at approximately 03:00 at the Kad Kao Chao fresh market in Mueang District. Emergency services were alerted after a Toyota saloon car, registered in Phrae province, suddenly drove into the heart of the market. On arrival, responders found the male driver slumped unconscious in his seat. He was carefully carried from the vehicle and laid on the back of a rescue truck for first aid. During an initial search of the vehicle, officers discovered a full police uniform, a handgun, and a police-style radio transmitter. The unconscious man was not immediately identified and authorities could not confirm whether he was a serving police officer or simply in possession of the uniform and equipment unlawfully. He was transported to hospital and the vehicle taken to Mueang Lampang Police Station for further investigation. The man remained unconscious throughout the day. Police say the vehicle and its contents are being examined, and further details will be released once the man regains consciousness and can be questioned. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-12

Man With Psychiatric History Stabs Villager in Brutal Attack Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A village in Si Sa Ket province was left in shock after a 22-year-old man with a history of mental illness violently attacked a neighbour with a butcher’s knife, leaving the victim with serious injuries that required over 80 stitches. The attacker, recently released from prison, was swiftly arrested by police. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363384-man-with-psychiatric-history-stabs-villager-in-brutal-attack/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A village in Si Sa Ket province was left in shock after a 22-year-old man with a history of mental illness violently attacked a neighbour with a butcher’s knife, leaving the victim with serious injuries that required over 80 stitches. The attacker, recently released from prison, was swiftly arrested by police. The incident occurred on 8 June in Ban Nong Saen, Bua Noi Subdistrict, Kanthararom District. The suspect, identified as Mr Jay Benzine, reportedly stormed into the home of 46-year-old Mr Pramote Chinnawong and launched an unprovoked knife attack while the victim was cleaning his house. Mr Pramote recounted the terrifying experience to reporters. “He just walked in with a meat cleaver and started hacking at me for no reason. We had spoken normally just before, so I had no idea something like this would happen,” he said. The victim sustained multiple injuries to his head and body and required extensive medical treatment, narrowly surviving thanks to the quick intervention of local residents. According to Mr Pramote, the suspect had previously served two prison terms for attempted murder and had been out of jail for just over a month before reoffending. He also noted that the suspect had not been taking his prescribed psychiatric medication, and this seemed to worsen his behaviour in recent weeks. “This is the third time he’s attacked someone in the village,” Mr Pramote added. “He’s dangerous. Even if he’s mentally ill, he needs to be detained and treated. People in the community are scared, and anyone could be his next victim.” An eyewitness, 62-year-old Ms Boon-ngan Phanthuwilai, described the horrific moment she saw the attack unfold. “Jay wouldn’t stop. He was hitting Pramote with the knife until he collapsed. I screamed at him to stop, but he ignored me. Thankfully, other villagers came and pulled him away just in time.” Police Colonel Thatchaphong Promma, superintendent of Kanthararom Police Station, confirmed that officers responded swiftly and arrested Mr Jay at his home shortly after the incident. Given his psychiatric condition, he is being held in police custody under medical supervision. However, the police have formally charged him with attempted murder. Colonel Thatchaphong stated that the case will proceed according to legal procedures, with the final outcome depending on the court’s assessment, including psychiatric evaluations. The case has reignited debate over how to handle mentally ill individuals with violent tendencies, particularly those with prior criminal convictions. Concerned residents have called for better mental health care and stricter monitoring of at-risk individuals after release from prison. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-12

Driver and Passenger Killed as Tanker Crashes into Power Pole in Phetchaburi Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A road crash in Phetchaburi province claimed the lives of two people early morning on 11 June, after a vegetable oil tanker driver lost control and slammed into a high-voltage power pole. The driver and a female passenger died at the scene, trapped inside the mangled vehicle. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363382-driver-and-passenger-killed-as-tanker-crashes-into-power-pole-in-phetchaburi/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A road crash in Phetchaburi province claimed the lives of two people early morning on 11 June, after a vegetable oil tanker driver lost control and slammed into a high-voltage power pole. The driver and a female passenger died at the scene, trapped inside the mangled vehicle. Police Lieutenant Colonel Sombat Yotsathisak, an investigator with Khao Yoi Police Station, responded to an emergency call reporting a serious crash involving a lorry. The incident occurred on the inbound lane of Phetkasem Road at kilometre marker 134 in Sa Phang subdistrict, Khao Yoi district. The vehicle, a yellow-plate truck registered in Chumphon, had overturned and come to rest against a high-voltage utility pole. Emergency crews from the Sawang Sanphet Dhammasathan Foundation were dispatched to the scene, equipped with hydraulic cutting tools to extract the victims. Rescuers discovered two fatalities inside the crushed cab of the truck. The driver was identified as Mr Narongdet Roythanasri, 49, from Lang Suan district in Chumphon. The female passenger, believed to be approximately 40 years old, has not yet been formally identified. Both victims were found in the front section of the truck, their bodies overlapping and pinned under the collapsed vehicle. Due to the severity of the impact, a large crane was required to separate the truck from the pole before rescue teams could begin the extraction process. It took over three hours to retrieve the bodies. Investigators noted the truck’s speedometer was stuck at 80 km/h at the moment of impact. According to the vehicle’s owner, the truck had departed Chumphon and was en route to deliver vegetable oil to Phra Pradaeng district in Samut Prakan. Police suspect the crash was caused by driver fatigue, as preliminary findings suggest the driver may have fallen asleep at the wheel, causing the vehicle to veer off the road and strike the pole. Authorities are continuing to investigate the exact cause of the crash and will coordinate with the families of the deceased to facilitate religious rites and funeral arrangements. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-12

Counterfeit Fan Factory Busted in Khlong Luang, Husband & Wife Arrested Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Police have dismantled a counterfeit fan operation in Pathum Thani’s Khlong Luang district, arresting a husband and wife suspected of producing and distributing fake electric fans under the popular “Hatari” brand. The imitation goods were being sold online at significantly lower prices than genuine products, ranging from 200 to 300 baht apiece. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1363380-counterfeit-fan-factory-busted-in-khlong-luang-husband-wife-arrested/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Police have dismantled a counterfeit fan operation in Pathum Thani’s Khlong Luang district, arresting a husband and wife suspected of producing and distributing fake electric fans under the popular “Hatari” brand. The imitation goods were being sold online at significantly lower prices than genuine products, ranging from 200 to 300 baht apiece. The raid was led by Police Lieutenant General Siam Boonsom, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, in coordination with senior officers from Division 8. Acting on intelligence and a court-issued search warrant, the authorities searched a warehouse in Khlong Nueng subdistrict on the afternoon of 10 June. The suspects, identified as Mr Narongdet, aged 45 and Ms Araya, aged 30, were apprehended on-site. Police discovered a large cache of counterfeit components and assembled fans, including 55 fan covers bearing the Hatari logo, 60 fan blades with guards, 116 fan stands, 61 motors, and two fully assembled fans with fake branding. Officers also seized keys to two warehouses believed to be involved in the operation. The investigation began following a complaint lodged by Hatari Electric Co., Ltd., which reported widespread unauthorised use of its registered trademark on online shopping platforms. The company expressed concern that the fraudulent products could mislead consumers and potentially pose safety hazards. To verify the claim, investigators made a controlled online purchase of a 16-inch, three-speed pedestal fan. The parcel’s return address led them to the warehouse in Khlong Luang. Surveillance confirmed suspicious activity, with staff seen packing goods in large quantities. A search warrant was then secured from the Central Intellectual Property and International Trade Court. When police arrived at the site, Mr Narongdet was found exiting the warehouse and was immediately approached by officers. Inside, Ms Araya was located in the office area. Both suspects admitted to managing the warehouse and cooperated fully with police during the search. During questioning, the couple confessed to selling the counterfeit items via online channels. They admitted to pricing the products well below standard retail value to attract buyers. The suspects were formally charged with “jointly selling, offering for sale, or possessing for sale goods bearing counterfeit or imitation trademarks registered in the Kingdom.” They were taken into custody, along with the seized items, to face prosecution under intellectual property laws. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-12