Georgealbert

Shareholders Question Cause of Fire at Chiang Mai’s Dhara Dhevi Hotel Shareholders of the Dhara Dhevi Hotel in Chiang Mai are disputing the cause of a devastating fire that broke out on April 23, raising concerns about the safety practices of a joint venture company involved in the hotel’s operation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359141-shareholders-question-cause-of-fire-at-chiang-mai’s-dhara-dhevi-hotel/

Picture from the fire. Shareholders of the Dhara Dhevi Hotel in Chiang Mai are disputing the cause of a devastating fire that broke out on April 23, raising concerns about the safety practices of a joint venture company involved in the hotel’s operation. The fire, which severely damaged the Dheva Spa building, has significantly tarnished the hotel’s reputation. Shareholders, represented by Ms. Yaowalak Ritsomjit of Inter Far East Energy Corporation Public Company Limited (IFEC), which operates the hotel, have claimed that the blaze may have been sparked by improper wiring used by the joint venture company, Siam Estate Dhara Dhevi Co. Ltd. They allege that the company illegally tapped into the power supply, creating a hazardous tangle of cables that violated safety standards, despite prior warnings and a municipal order to halt the hotel’s operation. Ms. Yaowalak provided evidence to the media, suggesting that the joint venture company had reopened part of the hotel in a manner that was both risky and non-compliant with regulations. She explained the ownership structure of the hotel, noting that IFEC acquired the Dhara Dhevi Hotel in a public auction on December 27, 2023, through its subsidiary, Inter Far East Thermal Power Co. Ltd. (I THERMAL), at a price of 3.65 billion baht. However, a payment dispute meant IFEC could only pay 2.37 billion baht for the assets of Dhara Dhevi Hotel Co. Ltd., leaving a significant portion of the hotel’s assets, owned by APK Development Co. Ltd., to be re-auctioned and acquired by another party. This division has led to ongoing issues with the hotel’s utilities, including a lack of running water, a substandard sewage system, and electricity to only about 20% of the property. Following the acquisition, IFEC formed a joint venture with Siam Estate Dhara Dhevi Co. Ltd., but the hotel has since fallen into disrepair. Ms. Yaowalak cited these issues, including a lack of fire-fighting systems and unsafe electrical wiring, as contributing factors to the fire. The fire, which destroyed the Dheva Spa, was exacerbated by a lack of functioning emergency water systems, as the required pumps were located in the section of the hotel owned by APK Development Co. Ltd. Despite claims from Siam Estate Dhara Dhevi Co. Ltd. that the Dheva Spa building had been cut off from the power supply for years, videos from visitors show that the power was still on at the time of the fire, casting doubt on these assertions. The joint venture company has denied using electricity in the building, claiming that only a few temporary lights were installed in non-compliant, makeshift wiring, which they believe could not have caused such a large fire. Images confirm that Dheva Spa had electricity turned on, and photos reveal dangerous electrical wiring that bypassed the control room. The shareholders have also raised concerns about the hotel’s lack of water and sewage systems, and the use of inadequate solutions, such as hoses laid across roads to fetch water from a nearby temple. In response to the fire, the shareholders plan to hold a press conference in Chiang Mai in early May 2025 to further address the issues, inviting representatives from the joint venture for questioning. They also intend to request a meeting with the governor of Chiang Mai to discuss official actions that could prevent further risks posed by the Dhara Dhevi Hotel to the community and environment. Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1358543-blaze-erupts-at-chiang-mai’s-dhara-dhevi-hotel/ Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-04-29.

Gunman Shoots BMW Outside Luxury Condo Before Attacking It with Baseball Bat Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A gunman opened fire on a BMW parked outside a luxury condominium in the Nakniwas area of Bangkok, shattering the car’s windows. After shooting, the assailant proceeded to strike the BMW with a baseball bat, damaging the rear lights, before fleeing the scene. The owner of the vehicle was left bewildered, stating he had no known enemies. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359140-gunman-shoots-bmw-outside-luxury-condo-before-attacking-it-with-baseball-bat/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A gunman opened fire on a BMW parked outside a luxury condominium in the Nakniwas area of Bangkok, shattering the car’s windows. After shooting, the assailant proceeded to strike the BMW with a baseball bat, damaging the rear lights, before fleeing the scene. The owner of the vehicle was left bewildered, stating he had no known enemies. The incident occurred at approximately 02:10 on 28 April when the owner, Mr. Sakkdapol parked his black BMW 320i (license plate from Bangkok) and entered the condominium building. At around 02:30 the owner returned to find his car had been severely damaged, with multiple bullet holes in the windows. Authorities arrived on the scene and found six 9mm bullet casings scattered around the area. Three of the rounds had been fired, while the remaining three had not been used. The vehicle’s windows were shattered, and the owner could not identify any suspects or explain the motive, as he claimed to have no enemies. Witnesses, including security personnel, reported seeing a grey Nissan without a license plate pull up alongside the BMW. A man in the Nissan fired several shots at the car before reversing, exiting the vehicle, and using a baseball bat to smash the passenger side windows and rear lights. The attacker then fled the scene in the direction of the nearby wood factory. Police and forensic experts are currently investigating the incident and are working to identify the perpetrator for prosecution. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-04-29.

Grandmother Arrested After 10 Years on the Run for Killing Brother Over Inheritance Dispute Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 70-year-old woman, who had been on the run for nearly a decade after allegedly killing her brother over a family inheritance dispute, was arrested in Rayong province on 28 April. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359139-grandmother-arrested-after-10-years-on-the-run-for-killing-brother-over-inheritance-dispute/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 70-year-old woman, who had been on the run for nearly a decade after allegedly killing her brother over a family inheritance dispute, was arrested in Rayong province on 28 April. The woman, identified as Tawai Saadeam, was wanted for the murder of her brother, who was killed in 2015 at their family home in Khlong Khlung district, Kamphaeng Phet province. Tawai was accused of using a knife to fatally wound her brother in a violent confrontation stemming from an ongoing dispute over inherited land. According to police, the incident occurred when Tawai and her brother argued over land inheritance, a matter that had caused frequent conflicts between the two. On the day of the incident, Tawai and her husband were eating dinner on the second floor of their house when her brother, intoxicated and carrying a sharp knife, approached them. Fearing for their safety, the couple attempted to hide in a room. However, the brother followed and forcibly entered the room, choking Tawai. In self-defence, Tawai grabbed the knife from her brother’s waist and struck him in the neck, resulting in his death. After the killing, Tawai fled the scene and managed to evade arrest for nearly 10 years. Authorities eventually traced her to a hideout in Rayong province, where she was apprehended. During questioning, Tawai admitted to the killing but maintained that it was an act of self-defence. She expressed regret over the tragedy but insisted that she had acted to protect herself from her brother’s violent attack. Following her arrest, Tawai was taken to Kamphaeng Phet Provincial Court for legal proceedings. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-04-29.

Volunteer Officer Ambushed and Killed Near Base in Yala, Vehicle Set Ablaze Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A volunteer security officer in Bannang Sata district, Yala province, was ambushed and killed late on 27 April while on a brief trip to a local shop, just 300 metres from his operational base. The attackers later set fire to both the officer’s car and his body. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359138-volunteer-officer-ambushed-and-killed-near-base-in-yala-vehicle-set-ablaze/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A volunteer security officer in Bannang Sata district, Yala province, was ambushed and killed late on 27 April while on a brief trip to a local shop, just 300 metres from his operational base. The attackers later set fire to both the officer’s car and his body. The victim, identified as Volunteer Officer Theerawut Phuttarat, 34, had driven from his base at Taling Chan subdistrict to purchase supplies at a grocery shop along Route 410, Yala–Bannang Sata Road. As he exited his vehicle, gunmen hiding in nearby overgrowth opened fire with automatic weapons. Multiple bullet holes were later found in the passenger-side door behind the driver’s seat. Following the initial attack, the assailants set the car and the deceased officer ablaze before fleeing the scene. Security forces immediately sealed off the area, allowing bomb disposal experts and forensic police from Yala Provincial Police Division 10 to collect evidence. Investigators confirmed that the shooting occurred directly outside a shop that operates daily until the early hours. Although a CCTV camera is installed on a nearby lamppost less than 20 metres from the crime scene, it was later revealed that the camera had been positioned away from the incident and failed to capture any footage of the attack. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident, which underscores the ongoing security challenges in the Deep South. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-04-29.

Eccentric Neighbour Arrested for 7 Years of Harassing Neighbours & Public Indecency Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A 68-year-old man, known for years of disruptive behaviour, has been arrested by police in the Bang Phlat district after repeatedly throwing rubbish into hisneighbours’ homes for over seven years and engaging in acts of public indecency. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359137-eccentric-neighbour-arrested-for-7-years-of-harassing-neighbours-public-indecency/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A 68-year-old man, known for years of disruptive behaviour, has been arrested by police in the Bang Phlat district after repeatedly throwing rubbish into his neighbours’ homes for over seven years and engaging in acts of public indecency. The arrest followed complaints from local residents about Mr. Veerachat, who had been hurling trash into neighbouring properties on a daily basis. Police were also alerted to his public acts of stripping off his clothing and eating rotten food in front of others. On 28 Aptil, officers from the Bang Phlat Police Station received a tip-off about the suspect’s ongoing activities. Upon investigation, they found Mr. Veerachat in an alley in the Charan 71 area, rummaging through garbage. When officers approached and requested a search, they discovered a short knife hidden in his bicycle. After his arrest, it was revealed that Mr. Veerachat was already wanted for a previous assault charge. He had been named in a warrant issued by the Thonburi Criminal Court on 25 April 2025, under charges of inflicting bodily harm on another individual, causing both physical and psychological injury. Authorities have confirmed that the suspect had never been arrested in connection with this earlier charge, despite the active warrant. The police have now proceeded with the legal process, and a record of his arrest has been provided to him. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-04-29.

Thai Armed Forces Showcase Strength in Annual Training Exercise Pictures courtesy of Amarin. In a show of military power and coordination, the Thai Armed Forces held their annual training exercise, CALFEX, at the Royal Thai Navy’s training ground in Chanthaburi province. The exercise, which took place on 28th April, saw participation from the Royal Thai Army, Navy, and Air Force, demonstrating a unified and formidable force. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359136-thai-armed-forces-showcase-strength-in-annual-training-exercise/

Pictures courtesy of Amarin. In a show of military power and coordination, the Thai Armed Forces held their annual training exercise, CALFEX, at the Royal Thai Navy’s training ground in Chanthaburi province. The exercise, which took place on 28th April, saw participation from the Royal Thai Army, Navy, and Air Force, demonstrating a unified and formidable force. Admiral Jiraphol Wongwits, Commander of the Royal Thai Navy, led the inspection of the exercise alongside senior officers. The CALFEX (Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise) is a key component of the Thai Navy’s 2025 field training programme, designed to test both personnel readiness and the operational capabilities of various military units. The exercise, held at the Royal Thai Navy’s Training Field No. 16 in Chanthakhem, involved live-fire operations and simulated combat situations, where military personnel tested their skills in securing and holding strategic locations, with support from heavy artillery and airstrikes. A variety of military equipment was showcased during the exercise, including amphibious assault vehicles (AAVs), armoured personnel carriers, tanks, and aircraft. The Navy deployed amphibious tanks, including six AAVs, three VN16 amphibious assault vehicles, and several armoured personnel carriers (BTR-3E1). Additionally, the Army contributed four M1126 Stryker armoured vehicles, while the Air Force provided two F-16 fighter jets for air support and suppression of enemy forces. The Navy’s air capabilities were also on full display, with Dornier maritime patrol aircraft and T-337 reconnaissance planes providing close air support and surveillance, while EC-645 helicopters were used for medical evacuation operations. As part of the exercise, a variety of air-ground coordination techniques were tested, with a focus on joint operations among the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The results of the training will help to assess and improve the effectiveness of joint military strategies and inform future military planning, particularly in national defence scenarios. This high-profile exercise not only demonstrated the strength and readiness of Thailand’s military forces but also underscored the importance of inter-service cooperation and the continuous development of the country’s defensive capabilities. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-04-29.

Angry Man Throws Pig Manure in Mobile Phone Repair Shop in Chonburi Picture captured from CCTV. In a bizarre and aggressive act, a man threw pig manure in a mobile phone repair shop in Chonburi province after being dissatisfied with the service. The incident took place on 26th April at around 15:00, when a man arrived at the shop to collect a repaired mobile phone. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359135-angry-man-throws-pig-manure-in-mobile-phone-repair-shop-in-chonburi/

Picture captured from CCTV. In a bizarre and aggressive act, a man threw pig manure in a mobile phone repair shop in Chonburi province after being dissatisfied with the service. The incident took place on 26th April at around 15:00, when a man arrived at the shop to collect a repaired mobile phone. According to CCTV footage, the man, identified as 30-year-old Mr. Jarek, arrived on a motorcycle carrying a black plastic container. He entered the store, where he proceeded to splash the contents of the container, which appeared to be a mixture of water and pig manure, over the shop’s interior, damaging several mobile phones. The man then quickly fled the scene on his motorcycle. The incident occurred at a mobile phone sales and repair shop located near the Koh Pho Market intersection in the Tha Buri sub-district of the Ko Pho district, Chonburi. Local police from Ko Chan station swiftly identified and arrested the suspect. When approached by reporters, Mr. Jarek refused to comment, stating that it was not a “serious case” and questioning why the police even arrested him. Ms. Bangorn, an employee at the shop, told reporters that the suspect had originally brought his phone in for repair, only to return later with the manure-filled container. She was shocked and frightened by the sudden attack. Mr. Jarek, who has a history of criminal activity involving firearms and drugs, is now facing charges related to the incident. Police have moved swiftly to take legal action. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-04-29.

UPDATE Aircraft Wreckage Recovery Delayed Following Police Aviation Crash in Sea Picture courtesy of Amarin The recovery and the transfer of wreckage from the police aviation have been delayed. Experts are expected to arrive between May 3 and May 8 to assist in the removal operation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358781-police-aircraft-crashes-into-sea-off-cha-am-leaving-four-dead/page/3/#findComment-19765787

UPDATE Aircraft Wreckage Recovery Delayed Following Police Aviation Crash in Sea Picture courtesy of Amarin The recovery and the transfer of wreckage from the police aviation have been delayed. Experts are expected to arrive between May 3 and May 8 to assist in the removal operation. The crash, which occurred on April 25, resulted in the deaths of six individuals, including the pilot, technician, and engineers. The incident involved an aircraft from the Royal Thai Police Airwing that plunged into the sea. Authorities have successfully retrieved the main wreckage of the aircraft from the sea and have collected scattered debris from the surrounding area. These parts are now being stored along the Hua Hin beach, near the 509th Special Operations Airwing in Prachuap Khiri Khan province. To secure the area, black tarpaulins have been set up, and a rope barrier has been erected to prevent unauthorized access. Officers from the Airwing are monitoring the wreckage to ensure it remains undisturbed. The investigation is being coordinated with experts from Canada, where the aircraft was manufactured, and officials from Singapore, where the aircraft’s parts are sourced. However, none of the investigative team has yet arrived on-site. The data recorder, which will be critical in determining the cause of the crash, is still waiting to be recovered by the Canadian experts. Mr. Prasoot Hombanthong, the district chief of Hua Hin, confirmed that the international investigation team has not yet accessed the crash site. The Thai authorities are handling the investigation independently, in coordination with the Royal Thai Police and the manufacturers. The team of experts is expected to arrive between May 3 and May 8 to begin their investigation. Once the data recorder is retrieved, the wreckage will be carefully examined in Bangkok to determine the cause of the crash. Currently, the transfer of aircraft remains is delayed due to insurance matters related to the aircraft. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-04-29.

Iranian Nationals Arrested in Pattaya for Stealing Money from Tourists Picture courtesy of Pattaya Message. On the afternoon of April 28, the Pattaya Tourist Police held a press conference after successfully apprehending a couple of Iranian nationals who had been targeting tourists in the area. The couple, identified as Mr. Ahmadi Fiooj Hooshang, 49, and Mrs. Mahmodi Kiya Ameneh, 42, were arrested on charges of theft and receiving stolen property. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359134-iranian-nationals-arrested-in-pattaya-for-stealing-money-from-tourists/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya Message. On the afternoon of April 28, the Pattaya Tourist Police held a press conference after successfully apprehending a couple of Iranian nationals who had been targeting tourists in the area. The couple, identified as Mr. Ahmadi Fiooj Hooshang, 49, and Mrs. Mahmodi Kiya Ameneh, 42, were arrested on charges of theft and receiving stolen property. The couple had been engaging in a deceptive scam, approaching tourists and requesting to see their US dollar bills. Once the unsuspecting tourists showed their money, the pair used a trick and deceit to steal some of the money before returning it. One such incident occurred on the evening of April 24, when a tourist from Israel reported that they had been duped by a man and woman, both of whom appeared to be of Middle Eastern descent, who had asked to inspect their money. The tourist noticed later that $700 had gone missing from their wallet. The crime took place outside the Twin Palm Resort, and the Pattaya Tourist Police swiftly investigated the matter, gathering information from the victim. The authorities tracked the suspects to a room in the Jomtien area, where they were found to match the descriptions given by the victim. During a search of their accommodation, police found the same clothing worn by the suspects during the theft. Furthermore, in their wallet, police discovered seven $100 bills. Both suspects were arrested and taken to Pattaya Police Station, where they were formally charged with theft at night and receiving stolen property. They are now facing legal proceedings. The Tourist Police Bureau also issued a reminder to both tourists and general public to remain vigilant regarding their personal belongings and report any suspicious activities Adapted by Asean Now from Pattaya Message 2025-04-29.

79-Year-Old Father-in-Law Kills Son-in-Law in Dispute Over Family Property Picture courtesy of Komchadluek. A tragic incident unfolded early this morning in the Pak Tho district of Ratchaburi, where a 79-year-old man shot and killed his 72-year-old son-in-law following a heated argument. The victim, identified as Mr. Natt, was found dead with a gunshot wound to the head outside a house in the village of Yang Hak. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359131-79-year-old-father-in-law-kills-son-in-law-in-dispute-over-family-property/

Picture courtesy of Komchadluek. A tragic incident unfolded early this morning in the Pak Tho district of Ratchaburi, where a 79-year-old man shot and killed his 72-year-old son-in-law following a heated argument. The victim, identified as Mr. Natt, was found dead with a gunshot wound to the head outside a house in the village of Yang Hak. Police were alerted to the scene at approximately 08:00 on 28 April and arrived to find the victim’s body, wearing a blue T-shirt, grey trousers, and boots. His assailant, later identified as 79-year-old Mr. Boonmee, was waiting for police at the scene and was found holding a shotgun, which he had used in the attack. He was immediately taken into custody. According to the victim’s wife, she and her husband had been helping her father at his farm earlier in the day, spraying pesticides on crops. She explained that after the work, she and her husband were preparing to go to the hospital. However, her father, known for his fiery temper, followed them home on his motorcycle. Upon arriving at the house, a confrontation ensued between her husband and father, during which a gunshot was fired. The wife rushed outside to find her father holding the shotgun, who then stated, “Your husband is dead.” In shock and grief, she immediately called the police. The motive behind the shooting is believed to be rooted in family tensions. The wife noted that her father had always been protective of his property and was suspicious of anyone attempting to claim it. This behaviour, coupled with long-standing marital disputes between her parents, may have contributed to the build-up of stress that led to the tragic event. The wife’s mother had reportedly moved out of the family home due to constant arguments with her husband, adding to the strain in the household. Nopparat Jan Sam Ang, an assistant village headman, confirmed that after the shooting, Mr. Boonmee returned to the farm to collect agricultural tools before returning to the house, where he did not attempt to flee. Upon the arrival of the police, he was promptly apprehended and taken for questioning. Investigators believe that the shooting stemmed from a combination of property-related concerns and the elderly man’s accumulated stress. Adapted by Asean Now from Khomchadluek 2025-04-29.

Not going to be LNG. Swift is only available in Thailand with a petrol engine and yes it may of had a LPG (liquid petroleum gas) or CNG (compressed natural gas) conversion, but not LNG (liquified natural gas). Very few LNG vehicles in Thailand, mostly trucks. Fuel systems define the fire characteristics. Petrol: Highly flammable liquid; evaporates easily, forming a vapour that can ignite at relatively low temperatures. In car fires, petrol can cause fast-spreading, intense flames. LPG: Stored under pressure as a liquid but vaporizes when released. If a leak occurs, LPG can create a flammable gas cloud that may ignite violently. Tanks can explode if exposed to fire long enough. BLEVE (boiling liquid expanding vapour explosion). CNG: Stored as a gas at high pressure. CNG is lighter than air, so leaks tend to rise and disperse. Fires from CNG are usually less explosive than LPG but can produce jet flames if ignited at a leak point. Cylinders can burst if compromised.

UPDATE Russian Man Arrested for Stabbing Outside Pattaya Condominium in Jealous Rage Pictures courtesy of The Thaiger. A Russian man is in a critical condition after being stabbed in the neck during a violent altercation outside a condominium in Pattaya. Romanov Mikhali 53, a Russian national, was found bleeding heavily from a stab wound to his neck. Police confirmed that the injury had affected a major artery, leaving Mikhali fighting for his life. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358947-jealous-new-foreign-boyfriend-stabs-russian-in-pattaya/page/3/#findComment-19763814

UPDATE Russian Man Arrested for Stabbing Outside Pattaya Condominium in Jealous Rage Pictures courtesy of The Thaiger. A Russian man is in a critical condition after being stabbed in the neck during a violent altercation outside a condominium in Pattaya. Romanov Mikhali 53, a Russian national, was found bleeding heavily from a stab wound to his neck. Police confirmed that the injury had affected a major artery, leaving Mikhali fighting for his life. Police arrested 43-year-old Denis Ivanov, also a Russian national, near the scene at approximately 23:00, the same evening. Ivanov, who was reportedly heavily intoxicated at the time of his arrest, had been drinking at a nearby convenience store following the attack. Due to Ivanov’s level of intoxication, police have yet to formally question him or release a detailed statement regarding his motive. However, it is understood that Ivanov acted out of jealousy, having previously caught his girlfriend and her former partner engaging in online conversations after their breakup. According to reports from Channel 7, Ivanov had been monitoring the pair and attacked when he found them together in person. No charges have yet been formally filed against Ivanov. Police stated they would wait to assess the victim’s condition before proceeding. Under Section 297 of the Thai Criminal Code, if Mikhali remains in critical condition, Ivanov could face imprisonment of between six months and ten years, along with a fine ranging from 10,000 to 200,000 baht. Further investigations revealed that Ivanov had overstayed his visa, having failed to leave Thailand when required on 1 June 2022. He originally entered the country in 2019. Adapted by Asean Now from The Thaiger 2025-04-28.

Man Killed After Attempting to Throw Himself at Oncoming Traffic in Bang Lamung Picture courtesy of Khaosod. An incident unfolded near Pattaya, when a man who appeared to be attempting to throw himself at passing vehicles was fatally struck by a car after one driver narrowly avoided him. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359038-man-killed-after-attempting-to-throw-himself-at-oncoming-traffic-in-bang-lamung/