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Devastating Fire Destroys Life Savings of Elderly Couple in Surin A fire that ravaged two homes in Surin province has left an elderly couple devastated, losing over 1 million baht in cash and their entire life savings in the blaze. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346849-devastating-fire-destroys-life-savings-of-elderly-couple-in-surin/

Body of 64-Year-Old Man Found Floating in Chao Phraya River A 64-year-old man’s body was discovered floating face down in the Chao Phraya River near the Klong Saeng Thong Pier this morning. Authorities are investigating the cause of death, though there are no signs of foul play. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346848-body-of-64-year-old-man-found-floating-in-chao-phraya-river/

Village in Panic as Giant Python Swallows Wild Boar & Lies Motionless in Rubber Plantation A rural village in Thung Yai district, Nakhon Si Thammarat was thrown into a state of alarm when a massive reticulated python, measuring 4 to 5 metres in length, was discovered lying motionless in a rubber plantation with a swollen belly. The villagers initially believed the snake was dead. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346847-village-in-panic-as-giant-python-swallows-wild-boar-lies-motionless-in-rubber-plantation/

Mysterious Shooting Death in Chanthaburi: Man Found Dead in Fruit Orchard A man was found dead from gunshot wounds in a fruit orchard in Chanthaburi. The body of the 52-year-old man was discovered in the orchard after what appeared to be a hunting trip turned tragic. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346845-mysterious-shooting-death-in-chanthaburi-man-found-dead-in-fruit-orchard/

Violent Attack at Samut Prakan Market Leaves Man Severely Injured A violent altercation at the Tamru Market in Samut Prakan left one man seriously injured, prompting a frantic escape by market-goers. The incident occurred at approximately 08:45 when a group of 6 individuals attacked a man, leaving him with severe injuries. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346844-violent-attack-at-samut-prakan-market-leaves-man-severely-injured/

Fire Guts Popular Restaurant in Chiang Mai A devastating fire broke out early morning at the renowned “Mad Dog” Western restaurant located on Muen Muang Road in the Phra Sing area of Chiang Mai. The fire caused significant damage, destroying the entire building, though fortunately, no injuries have been reported. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346843-fire-guts-popular-restaurant-in-chiang-mai/

Motorcycle Fatality in Nakhon Ratchasima Collision A crash occurred on Mittraphap Road, just past kilometre marker 43, near a fruit market and souvenir stall in the Khai Dong area of Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346842-motorcycle-fatality-in-nakhon-ratchasima-collision/

Drunken Foreigner Causes Panic in Pattaya, Wandering Half Naked & Armed with a Knife A foreign tourist caused a scene of panic in a Pattaya condominium early morning when he wandered the building half naked, brandishing a knife and knocking on doors. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346841-drunken-foreigner-causes-panic-in-pattaya-wandering-half-naked-armed-with-a-knife/

Brazen Robbery: Two Thieves Assault & Rob Chinese Tourist in Pattaya A shocking incident occurred in Pattaya when two assailants attacked and robbed a Chinese tourist in front of his friends. The crime, which took place near Soi 1 on Pattaya Second Road in Naklua, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province, has raised serious concerns about tourist safety in the city. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346840-brazen-robbery-two-thieves-assault-rob-chinese-tourist-in-pattaya/

Picture from responders. A rural village in Thung Yai district, Nakhon Si Thammarat was thrown into a state of alarm when a massive reticulated python, measuring 4 to 5 metres in length, was discovered lying motionless in a rubber plantation with a swollen belly. The villagers initially believed the snake was dead. The shocking discovery occurred in Ban Khao Nang Non, Krung Yan subdistrict, where local farmers were tending to their rubber trees. The snake was found in the plantation with its body completely still, leading residents to assume it had passed away. The large bulge in the snake’s belly suggested it had recently consumed a sizable meal. Fearful of the snake’s presence, villagers contacted the Thung Yai branch of the Southern Thai Rescue Foundation (Sa-Tek-Tung) to safely relocate the creature away from the populated areas. The rescue operation provided much-needed relief to the community, as many were too frightened to continue harvesting rubber in the area due to the snake’s proximity. Upon inspection, no missing persons were reported in the village, and it is believed that the snake’s recent meal was a wild boar, likely a full-grown adult weighing no less than 40 kilograms. The snake’s lethargy was attributed to the challenging task of digesting such a large prey. The snake was successfully moved to a forested area, far from the village, to avoid any further concerns for the locals. The incident has sparked both curiosity and relief within the community, which can now return to its daily activities without fear of encountering the giant reptile. -- 2024-12-22

Picture from responders. A 64-year-old man’s body was discovered floating face down in the Chao Phraya River near the Klong Saeng Thong Pier this morning. Authorities are investigating the cause of death, though there are no signs of foul play. At 09:00 the Bang Kho Laem Police Station was alerted to the body, and they quickly coordinated with forensic specialists from Siriraj Hospital, along with volunteers from the Ruam Katanyu Foundation and local Civil Defence volunteers to examine the scene. Upon arrival, officers found the lifeless body floating towards the Rama IX Expressway Bridge. The body was then recovered and brought to the Bang Kho Laem Pier for further investigation. The deceased, a man approximately 155-160 cm tall, was wearing a white short-sleeved polo shirt, navy blue shorts, and was barefoot. Upon closer inspection, there were no visible signs of trauma or injuries. Authorities believe the man had been dead for more than 48 hours, as the body showed signs of bloating and emitted a strong, unpleasant odour. In the deceased man’s pocket, officials found a brown wallet containing an ID card, a driver’s license, an organ donation card, and a photo of an unidentified woman, possibly a relative. A small sum of 30 baht in cash was also discovered. The deceased was identified as Phanuwattana Srimuang, aged 64, from Phetchabun province. The body was taken by volunteers to Siriraj Hospital for an autopsy to determine the cause of death. Authorities are also working to contact the family of the deceased for funeral arrangements. -- 2024-12-22

Pictures and video from responders. A fire that ravaged two homes in Surin province has left an elderly couple devastated, losing over 1 million baht in cash and their entire life savings in the blaze. The fire broke out at approximately 09:35 on 21 December, at a property in Ban Sonuan, Dan Subdistrict, in the Kabcheung district of Surin. Local firefighters from several areas responded to the emergency, including teams from Dan, Kabcheung, Koktakian, and Kutan subdistricts, as well as fire trucks from the Tatum Subdistrict and the local Civil Defence volunteers. Upon arrival, firefighters found two homes engulfed in flames. The blaze, which was particularly fierce in the wooden house with a raised foundation, took more than an hour to contain. Firefighters worked to extinguish smouldering debris, especially around a large pile of hay that had caught fire. The smoke continued to billow for some time, and the local community gathered to offer their support to the homeowners. The owners, 59-year-old Yom Bunjue and 62-year-old Yee Tongmak, were overcome with grief, with both collapsing in tears and fainting at the scene. Neighbours rushed to their aid, comforting the couple as they came to terms with their loss. Preliminary investigations revealed that, in addition to household items such as appliances, furniture, and important documents, the couple’s savings—stored in multiple piggy banks were destroyed in the fire. Yom Bunjue confirmed that the couple had saved approximately 900,000 baht in cash, along with two gold necklaces weighing 2 baht, and several piggy banks filled with cash, including 1,000-baht, 500-baht, and 100-baht bills, accumulated over many years of working as farmers and rubber tappers. Unfortunately, these savings were completely incinerated. “I had been saving all my life,” said Yom, tears streaming down his face. “I stored the money in jars on the second floor of the house. I tried to get to them, but the fire spread so quickly. I was forced to escape by breaking the window and jumping down to safety, injuring my hand in the process. I have nothing left. My entire life’s work has gone up in smoke.” Yom explained that the fire started rapidly from the old house, where hay had been stored for their cattle, and he immediately realised that his life savings were at risk. As the flames spread to the second floor, he attempted to salvage his possessions, but it was too late. Yom also mentioned that he had seen children playing near the house moments before the fire broke out but did not hold them responsible. Local authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the fire, which remains unclear at this stage. Kabcheung district officials, including the district chief and other local leaders, have pledged to assist the couple in their recovery and help them rebuild their lives. -- 2024-12-22 ScreenRecording_12-21-2024 16-47-20_1.mp4

Picture courtesy of Matichon, video from Facebook. A 28-year-old Dutch tourist was caught on video performing a reckless motorcycle stunt on Koh Samui, later admitting he was unaware of the local traffic laws. The police caught up with the tourist on the afternoon of 21 December, after a Facebook user shared a video on the “Samui People” group, highlighting the foreign motorcyclist performing a wheelie and driving dangerously on a busy road near the Big Buddha temple. The motorcyclist was seen weaving between traffic, with parked cars on both sides of the road. The stunt posed a significant safety risk to both the rider and other road users. The footage quickly garnered attention, prompting local police from Bo Phut Police Station to launch an investigation. The authorities identified the rider as Nova, a 28-year-old tourist from the Netherlands, who had been performing the stunt around 21:00 on 20 December. Nova admitted to being the rider in the video and explained that he did not realise his actions were illegal in Thailand. He stated that he was in the country to study Muay Thai and had not anticipated any issues with his behaviour. He expressed his apologies and promised not to repeat the stunt. The police issued a fine for reckless driving, amounting to 1,000 baht. Additionally, Nova was fined 2,000 baht for using a motorcycle that did not comply with Thai regulations, including an incomplete exhaust system. Authorities confiscated the non-compliant exhaust for destruction. While Nova was given a stern warning, police reminded him that any future violations would lead to more serious legal consequences, including potential court action. The incident serves as a reminder to foreign tourists to be aware of and respect local traffic laws. -- 2024-12-22 ScreenRecording_12-21-2024 17-11-08_1.mp4

Hong Kong Man Arrested in Pattaya for Illegal Production of E-Cigarettes Police in Pattaya have arrested a 28-year-old Hong Kong national for illegally manufacturing and selling e-cigarettes, as well as possessing an unregistered firearm. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346839-hong-kong-man-arrested-in-pattaya-for-illegal-production-of-e-cigarettes/

Woman Fatally Shot by Long-Time Partner Before She Fled the Scene An incident unfolded in Khlong Sam, Khlong Luang district, when a 44-year- old woman was fatally shot by her partner of over a decade in their shared residence. The suspect, a 33-year-old woman, fled the scene on a motorcycle following the incident. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346838-woman-fatally-shot-by-long-time-partner-before-she-fled-the-scene/

Picture from responders A violent altercation at the Tamru Market in Samut Prakan left one man seriously injured on the morning of December 21, prompting a frantic escape by market-goers. The incident occurred at approximately 08:45 when a group of 6 individuals attacked a man, leaving him with severe injuries. The victim, a man in his 30s, was found at the back of the market with multiple wounds. He had a deep head injury, a dislocated left shoulder, and a stab wound to his neck. Emergency responders from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation arrived at the scene and immediately transported him to Sirikit Hospital in Samut Prakan for treatment. According to the victim, he had arrived at the market with his partner when he encountered a group of individuals he had previously had conflicts with at work. The group then launched an unprovoked attack, cornering him at the rear of the market. The assailants held him by the neck and struck his head with a rock, causing him to collapse before stabbing him with a sharp metal object. The victim was able to call for help, and nearby residents intervened, trying to stop the attack and alerting the police. The assailants fled the scene before law enforcement arrived. Local police from the Bang Pu Police Station are conducting an investigation and working to locate the suspects for further legal action. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the attackers' identities to come forward. -- 2024-12-22

Picture from responders. A man was found dead from gunshot wounds in a fruit orchard in Chanthaburi on the night of December 20. The body of 52-year-old Somjai Muktawat was discovered in the orchard after what appeared to be a hunting trip turned tragic. At approximately 20:00 Somjai, along with two colleagues, Dusit, 54, and his younger companions, 35-year-old Sumet and 30-year-old Krit, went to hunt wild animals in a forest area behind a fruit farm in the village of Khlong Narai, Chanthaburi. Dusit reported that he heard the sound of a gunshot and rushed to investigate. He found Somjai sitting under a mangosteen tree, visibly injured, and claiming he had been shot. Dusit and the others attempted to assist Somjai and carried him 200 metres to the roadside, hoping to get him to the hospital. However, by the time they reached the roadside, Somjai was already dead. They immediately called the police to report the incident. Police arrived on the scene shortly after and confirmed the victim had sustained over 10 gunshot wounds to the chest and face. Forensic experts from the Chanthaburi Provincial Hospital conducted an initial examination of the body and determined the cause of death to be multiple gunshot wounds. Authorities have taken the three men into custody for questioning. Investigators are currently working to determine the exact cause of the shooting, the identity of the perpetrator, and whether foul play was involved. Evidence, including fingerprints and gunpowder residue, has been collected for further forensic testing. The police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death. Meanwhile, the family of the deceased has been informed, and an official inquiry is ongoing. -- 2024-12-22

Ex-Driver Arrested for Stealing Employer’s Briefcase with 600,000 in Cash A 46-year-old former driver was apprehended for stealing his former employer’s belongings, including a briefcase containing 600,000 baht in cash. Police tracked and arrested the suspect, identified as Mr. Thanawat, within 60 hours of the incident. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346837-ex-driver-arrested-for-stealing-employer’s-briefcase-with-600000-in-cash/

Pictures from responders. A devastating fire broke out early morning on December 21, at the renowned “Mad Dog” Western restaurant located on Muen Muang Road in the Phra Sing area of Chiang Mai. The fire caused significant damage, destroying the entire building, though fortunately, no injuries have been reported. The fire was first reported at around 07:00 and quickly escalated, with flames threatening nearby establishments. The Chiang Mai Municipal Fire Department, alongside the Chiang Mai Gate Fire Station, immediately responded with fire trucks and water tankers to control the blaze. Firefighters worked for about an hour to bring the fire under control and prevent it from spreading to adjacent buildings. A number of LPG cylinders were removed and cooled outside, to prevent any explosion risks. At the scene, the Deputy Mayor of Chiang Mai, Mr. Suntorn Yamsiri, was overseeing the emergency response. The cause of the fire is still under investigation by local authorities. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, but the damage to the restaurant is extensive. The building, a popular destination for both locals and tourists, has been completely destroyed. Authorities are currently assessing the extent of the damage, and the restaurant’s owners are expected to file a claim for the property losses. -- 2024-12-22

Warehouse Collapse in Prachinburi Leaves Several Workers Injured A warehouse under construction in Kabin Buri District, Prachinburi, collapsed injuring multiple workers. The incident occurred at 10:30 in Moo 9, Mueang Kao Subdistrict, Kabin Buri District, Prachinburi Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346835-warehouse-collapse-in-prachinburi-leaves-several-workers-injured/

Brake Failure Causes Multi-Car Collision in Chonburi, Injuring Two Children A crash involving five vehicles occurred on Sukprayoon Road near a U-turn by a PTT petrol station in the Kut Ngong sub-district of Chonburi Province. A small truck suffered brake failure, crashing into multiple vehicles and leaving two children injured. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346834-brake-failure-causes-multi-car-collision-in-chonburi-injuring-two-children/

Taxi Driver Flees Without Paying for Fuel, Crashes During High-Speed Chase A high-speed chase in Chaiyaphum Province ended in a dramatic crash involving a taxi, a six-wheel truck, and a police car, leaving multiple vehicles wrecked and several people injured. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1346833-taxi-driver-flees-without-paying-for-fuel-crashes-during-high-speed-chase/

Picture courtesy of TMN A shocking incident occurred in Pattaya when two assailants attacked and robbed a Chinese tourist in front of his friends. The crime, which took place on the night of December 20, near Soi 1 on Pattaya Second Road in Naklua, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province, has raised serious concerns about tourist safety in the city. The victim, Mr. Wu, a 40-year-old Chinese tourist, reported the incident to Pattaya City Police with the help of a local ride-hailing driver. He explained that while walking back to his hotel with three friends, two individuals approached them on separate motorcycles. One of the assailants suddenly punched Mr. Wu in the face, while the other snatched his Huawei smartphone, valued at approximately 30,000 baht, from his hand. The perpetrators then fled the scene on their motorcycles. Police have registered the complaint and are working to track down the culprits. Officers are reviewing CCTV footage from the area and questioning witnesses to gather evidence and leads. The audacity of the attack, which occurred in a busy part of the city, has sparked concerns over the safety of tourists and the city’s image as a travel destination. Authorities have vowed to act swiftly to apprehend the suspects and ensure justice. -- 2024-12-22

Picture captured from CCTV. A foreign tourist caused a scene of panic in a Pattaya condominium early morning on December 21, when he wandered the building half naked, brandishing a knife and knocking on doors. The incident occurred at approximately 01:05 at a condominium on Jomtien Second Road, Nong Prue, Bang Lamung District. Police were alerted to the disturbance and immediately dispatched a patrol team to investigate. Upon arrival, officers found residents in a state of shock, with security personnel detaining the intoxicated foreign man. The man, who was not immediately identified or nationality disclosed, was wearing only a black T-shirt and was naked from the waist down. Nearby, officers recovered a 15-centimetre kitchen knife, which the man had been wielding as he moved erratically through the building. Residents recounted their fear as the man walked through the halls, knocking on doors while holding the weapon. One resident described looking through their peephole to find a large, half naked man with a knife. The shocking image sent a wave of terror through the building, prompting residents to contact security, who then called the police. Initially, police attempted to escort the man back to his room. However, concerned for their safety and the man’s erratic behaviour, residents refused to let him go. Fearing a potential escalation and the risk of harm, they requested the authorities detain him to prevent further disturbance. In response to these concerns, police took the man into custody and transported him to Pattaya Police Station to calm down and assess the situation further. Authorities are investigating the incident, which has raised concerns about safety in the area and the potential risks posed by intoxicated tourists. -- 2024-12-22

Picture from responders. A crash occurred on the morning of December 21, on Mittraphap Road, just past kilometre marker 43, near a fruit market and souvenir stall in the Khai Dong area of Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima. At approximately 08:30 emergency services responded to reports of a motorcycle crash. Authorities found that a motorcycle had rear-ended a personal car, which was turning onto the shoulder of the road. The motorcyclist then lost control and fell into the path of a following articulated truck, which was unable to stop in time and ran over the rider. The motorcyclist, identified as 51-year-old Mr. Wichet Kamdee from Amnat Charoen Province, died at the scene. Rescue teams from the Sawaeng Wiccha Foundation and Khai Dong Rescue worked quickly to remove the body and transport it to Pak Chong Nana Hospital, where it will be held for the family to make funeral arrangements. The investigation into the incident is ongoing and is being led by Officer Phongchai, Chief Investigator at Khai Dong Police Station. -- 2024-12-22