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Picture from responders. A fire broke out in a public transport van near Phetkasem Soi 88, Bang Khae district, causing extensive damage to the vehicle and nearby communication cables. One individual was injured in the incident and has been hospitalised. The incident occurred at an unnumbered property on Phetkasem Soi 88, Phetkasem Road, Bang Khae Nuea Subdistrict, Bang Khae District, Bangkok. The vehicle involved was a white Toyota public van with license plate registration in bangkok, which used both gasoline and LPG as fuel. The fire completely engulfed the van, destroying it entirely. The flames also spread to nearby communication cables, damaging approximately 10 metres of wiring. Firefighters from the Bang Khae Fire and Rescue Station arrived promptly and extinguished the fire using water, in about 20 minutes. Preliminary investigations suggest that the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit in the wiring within the vehicle’s engine compartment. A 49-year-old male sustained injuries in the incident. He was struck by sharp debris, believed to be metal fragments from the van which had exploded out during the fire, resulting in an abdominal wound. Emergency responders transported him to Kasemrad Bang Khae Hospital for treatment. Authorities are continuing their investigation to confirm the exact cause of the fire and assess the full extent of the damage. -- 2024-12-04

CIB and PTT Collaborate to Raid Illegal LPG Gas Cylinder Facilities The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), in collaboration with PTT Oil and Retail Business (PTTOR), conducted a major raid targeting illegal LPG gas cylinder refilling and counterfeit operations in Khon Kaen and Nakhon Ratchasima provinces. The operation, executed under warrants issued by the Intellectual Property and International Trade Court, uncovered equipment and counterfeit gas cylinders valued at over 4.2 million baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1345306-cib-and-ptt-collaborate-to-raid-illegal-lpg-gas-cylinder-facilities/

Picture courtesy of CIB The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), in collaboration with PTT Oil and Retail Business (PTTOR), conducted a major raid targeting illegal LPG gas cylinder refilling and counterfeit operations in Khon Kaen and Nakhon Ratchasima provinces. The operation, executed under warrants issued by the Intellectual Property and International Trade Court, uncovered equipment and counterfeit gas cylinders valued at over 4.2 million baht. The operation was led by senior officers including Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Phuridej, Commissioner of the CIB, and Pol. Maj. Gen. Sopon Saraphat, Deputy Commissioner of the CIB, with the support of multiple units and PTTOR representatives. The investigation followed complaints from Mr. Somkiat Siripaiboon, an authorised representative of PTTOR, reporting unauthorised facilities misusing PTT’s trademarks to deceive consumers. The investigation revealed two key sites: 1. Khon Kaen (Mueang District): A facility operating under a company identified as “TH” was found to possess: • 42 counterfeit PTT-branded gas cylinders. • 630 authentic PTT cylinders used without authorisation. • 47 cylinders with counterfeit Thai Industrial Standards (TIS) markings. Additionally, behind this facility, police discovered machinery capable of producing counterfeit gas cylinders, including 38 machines and 8,375 components. 2. Nakhon Ratchasima (Non Sung District): Another site operated by the same company was found to have: • 311 expired gas cylinders. • 550 unexpired but unauthorised cylinders. • 3 counterfeit PTT cylinders. • 121 cylinder seals and other tools used for illegal refilling. A total of 1,583 gas cylinders, including expired and counterfeit units, were seized across the two locations. The facilities were not authorised representatives of PTTOR but instead posed as distributors of other gas companies, misleading the public. If found guilty, the operators may face charges under the following laws: Trademark Act, B.E. 2534 (1991): • Counterfeiting trademarks: Up to 4 years imprisonment or a fine of 400,000 baht. Fuel Control Act, B.E. 2542 (1999): • Unauthorized handling of LPG cylinders: Up to 1 year imprisonment or a fine of 100,000 baht. Consumer Protection Act, B.E. 2522 (1979): • Misleading advertising: Up to 6 months imprisonment or a fine of 50,000 baht. Industrial Product Standards Act, B.E. 2511 (1968): • Producing substandard industrial products: Up to 2 years imprisonment or a fine of 2,000,000 baht. Authorities warn consumers to be vigilant when purchasing LPG gas cylinders. Counterfeit or expired cylinders pose significant risks, including potential explosions and gas leaks. PTTOR has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting consumer safety and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Legal action is being pursued against the offenders to safeguard the public and uphold the integrity of the gas distribution system. -- 2024-12-04

Body of Missing Man Found Floating in Water, Believed to Have Drowned 2 Days Before A man’s body was discovered floating in a canal near a shrimp farm in Trat province. Authorities believe the man, who had been missing for at least two days, drowned after falling into the water while intoxicated. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1345305-body-of-missing-man-found-floating-in-water-believed-to-have-drowned-2-days-before/

Picture from responders. A man’s body was discovered floating in a canal near a shrimp farm in Trat province. Authorities believe the man, who had been missing for at least two days, drowned after falling into the water while intoxicated. On December 3, Pol. Lt. Col. Piyaporn Khamwan, officer-in-charge at the Trat Provincial Police Station, received a report about a drowning incident in the area of Klong Prem, Village 5, Ban Laem Samrong, Nong Kan Song Subdistrict, Mueang District, Trat. The police, along with forensic experts, rescue teams from Sawang Boonchuea Trat, and medical staff from Trat Hospital, rushed to the scene. The body was found in a public canal next to a shrimp farm. It was identified as Mr. Methee, a local resident of Village 4, Nong Samet Subdistrict, Mueang District, Trat. The body was found face down in the water, wearing a white shirt, blue long pants, and sneakers. Preliminary examination by the authorities revealed no signs of foul play, and it is estimated that Mr. Methee had been dead for at least two days. Local health volunteers informed the police that Mr. Methee had a history of mental health issues. According to Mr. Pua Mot, a Cambodian worker at the shrimp farm who discovered the body, he had been working when he noticed a foul odour coming from the area near the shrimp pond. Upon investigating, he found the body floating in the water and immediately informed his employer. Investigations by the police and nearby villagers suggest that Mr. Methee, known for his habit of walking around the village while intoxicated, may have fallen into the water while drunk, leading to his drowning. The victim’s family has expressed no suspicion regarding the cause of his death. The body has been handed over to the family for funeral rites. -- 2024-12-04

Si Racha: Woman Dies at Scene After Collision with 18-Wheeler A fatal road crash occurred when an 18-wheeler truck collided with a motorcycle at a U-turn near Laem Chabang in Si Racha District, Chonburi Province. The crash left a woman with critical injuries, and despite urgent efforts to save her, she was confirmed dead at the scene. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1345304-si-racha-woman-dies-at-scene-after-collision-with-18-wheeler/

Picture from responders. A fatal road crash occurred at 22:00 on December 2, when an 18-wheeler truck collided with a motorcycle at a U-turn near Laem Chabang in Si Racha District, Chonburi Province. The crash left a woman with critical injuries, and despite urgent efforts to save her, she was confirmed dead at the scene. The Sawang Prateep Si Racha Rescue Radio Center received an emergency call about the accident and immediately dispatched rescue teams to the location, where they were joined by additional volunteers from the rescue unit. In response to the severity of the crash, the Sawang Prateep Radio Centre coordinated with the Advanced Life Support (ALS) team. The Chonburi Emergency Command and Notification Center also sent a team from Vibharam Laem Chabang Hospital to provide medical assistance. Upon reaching the site, rescue personnel found the motorcycle severely damaged and the 18-wheeler truck stopped nearby, with the driver waiting for authorities. A woman was found lying unconscious on the road, wearing a helmet but showing no signs of life. Her body exhibited severe trauma, including significant internal injuries that were exposed from the crash ripping open her torso. The rescue teams immediately attempted resuscitation, but her injuries were too severe. After assessing the situation, the Vibharam Laem Chabang Hospital team confirmed the woman had passed away at the scene. In order to maintain dignity for the deceased and prevent unnecessary public exposure to the horrific sight, the rescue team set up a screen around the victim's body. Following police procedures, the body was later transported by the Sawang Prateep Si Racha Forensic Vehicle to Laem Chabang Hospital for an autopsy, as directed by local authorities from the Laem Chabang Police Station. The unnamed driver stated that he was making the U-turn when he heard a crash. On stopping the vehicle he released that he had collided with the motorcycle and had dragged both the motorcycle and the victim a short distance, causing her injuries. He could only assume that the motorcycle had driven up the side of the truck and collided with it as it was turning. The authorities are continuing their investigation into the cause of the incident. -- 2024-12-04

Road Leading to Betong Bus Terminal collapses A stretch of road leading to the Betong District Bus Terminal in Yala Province has developed significant cracks and partially collapsed, causing concern for public safety. The damage, which spans over 50 metres, has prompted local authorities to take action to prevent potential accidents. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1345303-road-leading-to-betong-bus-terminal-collapses/

Picture from responders. A stretch of road leading to the Betong District Bus Terminal in Yala Province has developed significant cracks and partially collapsed, causing concern for public safety. The damage, which spans over 50 metres, has prompted local authorities to take action to prevent potential accidents. On December 3, Ms. Thararat Sangthong, Acting Head of the Betong Transport Office, was informed by residents about the road’s deterioration near the Betong bus terminal, located on Mahamongkhon Road, Betong District. After receiving the report, she alerted Mr. Amorn Chumchui, the Betong District Chief, and together they inspected the site. They discovered a serious issue, a 10 metre deep, 8 metre wide sinkhole stretching more than 50 metre along the road. Given the severity of the damage, authorities are concerned of the danger posed to drivers and pedestrians. In response, the Betong Municipal Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Unit, along with local police, has placed barriers and warning signs to designate the area as hazardous. Traffic is being rerouted, and access is prohibited until further notice. Mr. Amorn Chumchui stated that the road collapse was likely caused by continuous rainfall, which caused the underlying soil to erode, leading to the cracking. He assured the public that traffic police have been deployed to block off the affected area and advised residents to avoid the route for their safety. He added that efforts to repair the road are already underway, with heavy machinery being brought in to restore the area as soon as possible. In addition to the Betong bus terminal road, officials have reported two other major areas affected by landslides and road subsidence in Betong District, including the Sa-Ho road and a stretch in Village 3, Ban Kaep Salang, Tharn Nam Tip Subdistrict. To address the immediate transportation needs, Ms. Thararat Sangthong also announced that from December 4, the Betong Transport Office will temporarily relocate the bus terminal operations to the Chalerm Phra Kiat 80th Anniversary Building, formerly known as the Betong Community Hall. This arrangement will remain in place until further notice or until repairs are completed. -- 2024-12-04

Picture from responders. A man from Nakhon Ratchasima lost his life when the pickup truck he was in, slid into a pond, drowning him on the night of December 2. The incident occurred around 22:00 at a farm in Ban Nong Bong, Mueang Khong District, Nakhon Ratchasima. The victim, identified only as a male worker, was stationed inside the truck to oversee machinery when the vehicle unexpectedly slid into the pond. The local Ruin Chit Rescue Team, along with a diving unit, was dispatched to the scene after receiving a report of the incident. They began a search for the truck, which was fully submerged in the water. After approximately 15 minutes of searching, rescuers located the body of the deceased man, found submerged near the truck. The truck’s rear door was open, leading authorities to believe that the victim had attempted to escape but was unable to open the door in time due to the rising water. Authorities suspect that the man’s struggle for survival might have been in vain, as he perished before he could reach the surface. Prior to the truck sinking completely, the victim had called a relative to inform them of the incident as the vehicle was sinking, asking for help. However, by the time the family arrived at the scene, the truck was already fully submerged. Local police have since ordered the body to be sent for an autopsy at the Khong Hospital. Additionally, a tow truck recovered the vehicle from the pond for further investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident. Preliminary findings suggest that the victim had parked the truck by the pond’s edge to rest. The area, which is sloped and damp, likely became slippery due to heavy dew, causing the truck to slowly slide into the water. Authorities are continuing their investigation and have called in forensic experts to gather more information for the legal process. -- 2024-12-04

Veterinarians Rush to Rescue Injured Baby Elephants Caught in Snares in Chanthaburi Authorities from the Department of Conservation Area 2 (Sriracha) mobilised a team of veterinarians and wildlife officers to rescue two injured baby elephants trapped in snares. Concerns have been raised over the potential danger posed by the protective elephant herd during the operation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1345301-veterinarians-rush-to-rescue-injured-baby-elephants-caught-in-snares-in-chanthaburi/

Picture courtesy of Department of Conservation Authorities from the Department of Conservation Area 2 (Sriracha) mobilised a team of veterinarians and wildlife officers to rescue two injured baby elephants trapped in snares. Concerns have been raised over the potential danger posed by the protective elephant herd during the operation. Mr. Kongkiat Temtumnan, Director of Conservation Area 2, reported on the situation. The injured elephants were first spotted on Sunday, December 1, in the forest around Kaeng Hang Maew, Khun Song Subdistrict, Kaeng Hang Maew District, Chanthaburi. One elephant has a snare wound on the middle of its trunk, while the other is injured near the trunk’s tip. Both calves remain with their herd of approximately 40 wild elephants. A team led by senior veterinarian Supalak Prajan has been monitoring the herd closely. Observations revealed that the group is staying together and protecting the injured calves, making the rescue effort particularly challenging. To ensure a safe and effective operation, the rescue team has divided into three units: 1. Anesthesia Team – Responsible for sedating the calves and, if necessary, their protective mothers. 2. Medical Team – Tasked with removing the snares, cleaning the wounds, administering antibiotics, and suturing the injuries. 3. Control Team – Charged with keeping the rest of the herd at a safe distance to allow the operation to proceed without incident. Given the urgency of the situation and the calves’ vulnerable condition, the team must work swiftly and cautiously. The safety of both the rescue team and the elephants remains the highest priority. Preparations are underway for immediate action as soon as the injured calves are located. Conservation Area 2 has emphasised its commitment to safeguarding every life involved in this mission, ensuring the operation concludes successfully. Members of the public who spot the elephant herd are encouraged to report sightings to Conservation Area 2 (Sriracha) to enable timely intervention. -- 2024-12-04

Elderly Man Perishes in Chiang Rai House Fire A devastating fire engulfed a wooden single-story house in Chiang Rai early morning, claiming the life of a 76-year-old man who lived alone. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1345300-elderly-man-perishes-in-chiang-rai-house-fire/

Picture from responders. A devastating fire engulfed a wooden single-story house in Chiang Rai early morning on December 3, claiming the life of a 76-year-old man who lived alone. Police from Mueang Chiang Rai Station, firefighters from Chiang Rai Municipality, and rescue workers from the Sirikorn Disaster Relief Association rushed to the scene on Ratchayotha Road, Soi Ratchapracha, in Robwiang Subdistrict, after being alerted to the fire. Upon arrival, the house was already consumed by flames. Firefighters deployed water trucks and battled the inferno for about 45 minutes before bringing it under control. Tragically, when the flames were extinguished, the charred remains of the homeowner, identified as Mr. Manit, 76, were discovered inside. Neighbours reported seeing smoke billowing from the house in the early hours of the morning and immediately alerted authorities. Unfortunately, Mr. Manit was unable to escape the blaze in time. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Forensic officers are expected to examine the scene to determine what sparked the incident. -- 2024-12-04

Lift Failure at Air Conditioning Store in Taling Chan: 1 Dead, 3 Critically Injured An incident occurred at an air conditioning equipment store in Taling Chan district, Bangkok, when a lift cable snapped, causing the lift to plunge to the ground. The fall resulted in one death and three critical injuries. Full Story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1345299-lift-failure-at-air-conditioning-store-in-taling-chan-1-dead-3-critically-injured/

Picture from responders. An incident occurred at an air conditioning equipment store in Taling Chan district, Bangkok, when a lift cable snapped, causing the lift to plunge to the ground. The fall resulted in one death and three critical injuries. At approximately 15:00 on December 3, Pol. Lt. Col. Chaiwat Namjanda, Deputy Inspector (Investigation) at Taling Chan Police Station, received a report about the accident at a company on Ratchaphruek Road. He alerted senior officers and rushed to the scene with Pol. Maj. Gen. Kampanat Arunkeeriroj, Commander of Division 7, forensic officers, medical staff from Siriraj Hospital, and rescue volunteers. The incident took place in a five-story building. The lift, an old-style open-top platform supported by a single steel cable, had crashed into the ground floor. Inside, rescuers found the body of Mr. Amnat Klaisring, 43, the head technician, lying in a pool of blood. The lift also contained three 20-litre water bottles, a toolbox, 5 wooden poles and a bucket of rubble. Three others who had been removed from lift and were critically injured in the incident, were named as; • Mr. Wirachai Ratchawanich, 51, the company owner, who was rushed to Srisawan Hospital. • Mr. Sai Kham Muang, 25, a Myanmar national, who was sent to Srisawan Hospital. • Mr. Ton Sebua Ouang, 26, a Lao national, who was transported to Siriraj Hospital. An investigation revealed that the lift, designed to carry a maximum weight of 300 kilograms, was carrying a load exceeding its capacity. The steel cable broke, causing the lift to fall. Witnesses reported that the group had been transporting materials to build a birdcage on the fifth floor. Ms. Nanthaphon Fakhom, 48, a staff member, explained that the lift was loaded with heavy items and used by individuals of larger build, which may have contributed to the weight exceeding its limit. Further examination of the lift showed it lacked modern safety features such as sensors. The lift’s operation when rising had been obstructed when the 3 metre poles collided with the building’s ceiling. Attempts to force the lift to its correct position, on the top floor, likely caused the cable to snap. Authorities are conducting a detailed investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident. -- 2024-12-04

10-Wheeler Truck Brake Failure Causes Collision with Pickup Truck, Driver Seriously Injured A 10-wheeler truck suffered a brake failure and collided with a pickup truck, leaving the pickup truck driver seriously injured. The incident occurred at approximately 13:15, on the Pluak Daeng-Suphan Road near Soi Suphan, Rayong. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1345298-10-wheeler-truck-brake-failure-causes-collision-with-pickup-truck-driver-seriously-injured/

Picture from responders. A 10-wheeler truck suffered a brake failure on December 3 and collided with a pickup truck, leaving the pickup truck driver seriously injured. The incident occurred at approximately 13:15, on the Pluak Daeng-Suphan Road near Soi Suphan, Rayong. Police from Pluak Daeng Police Station and rescue personnel responded to the scene after receiving reports of the crash. The injured driver, identified as Mr. Yutthachai 33, was trapped inside his severely damaged pickup truck. Rescue workers managed to extricate him and rushed him to Pluak Daeng Hospital for urgent treatment. The 10-wheeler truck was also inspected and found to have its right-side wheels completely detached. Preliminary statements from Mr. Prayad 60, the driver of the 10-wheeler truck, revealed that he was driving out of Soi Thai Sabai towards Pluak Daeng Market when the brakes failed as he reached the intersection. Unable to stop, the truck slammed into the pickup truck ahead, causing significant damage and leaving Mr. Yutthachai seriously injured. An eyewitness, identified as Mr. Mek, expressed skepticism about the brake failure claim. He noted that if the truck’s brakes had indeed failed, the driver could have shifted gears to reduce the vehicle’s speed. Authorities have decided to have the truck inspected by mechanics to verify the cause of the brake failure. Pending the investigation, legal action will be taken against Mr. Prayad as per the law. -- 2024-12-04

Student Dies in School Van Crash with Ice Delivery Truck In Uttaradit A student lost their life in Uttaradit province after a collision between a school van and a six-wheeled ice delivery truck. The accident left nine students injured, with three in critical condition. Authorities believe the incident could have caused greater loss of life had the collision been full contact. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1345297-student-dies-in-school-van-crash-with-ice-delivery-truck-in-uttaradit/

Picture from responders. A student lost their life in Uttaradit province after a collision between a school van and a six-wheeled ice delivery truck. The accident left nine students injured, with three in critical condition. Authorities believe the incident could have caused greater loss of life had the collision been full contact. The accident occurred on December 2, in Ban Pha Kaen, Village 10, Tha Pla Subdistrict, Tha Pla District. The ice delivery truck reportedly sideswiped the school van on Ruan Chit Road, which was heading toward Tha Pla. Emergency responders rushed the injured students to the hospital, while the school community mourned the loss of one of its own. The truck driver, who was not named, remain at the scene and was taken by authorities for questioning. Tha Pla Pracha Utid School expressed its sorrow in a post on Facebook, stating: “ The school administration, students, teachers, and parents deeply mourn the loss of Sakoldit Uppathana, a student. We extend our heartfelt support to the Uppathana family during this difficult time.” Images of the damaged school van were shared on social media by Facebook users, one who commented: “This is the aftermath of the accident caused by the ice delivery truck sideswiping the school van. Had it struck full om, the tragedy would have been far worse.” The incident has deeply affected the local community, with many offering hopes for the swift recovery of the injured students and expressing condolences to the bereaved family. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, while school staff and community members join together to provide support to those affected. -- 2024-12-04

UPDATE Fire Destroys Iconic Abandoned Ship Hotel on Koh Chang: Blaze Could Take Days to Extinguish Picture from responders. A massive fire broke out at the abandoned ship hotel known as Koh Chang Grand Laguna, located in Bang Bao Village, Koh Chang Tai Subdistrict, Koh Chang District, Trat Province. Authorities estimate it will take several days to fully extinguish the flames, which have already spread to approximately 50% of the structure. The blaze, reported to have started at the ship’s stern, quickly spread through the lower levels and moved toward the upper deck. Police Colonel Wallop Kangtharathip, chief of Koh Chang Police Station, received the report and coordinated efforts with local officials, including Mr. Jakkrit Salakphet, mayor of Koh Chang Tai, and Koh Chang District Chief Narit Palakwang Na Ayutthaya. Fire trucks were dispatched from the Koh Chang Tai Municipality to the remote site at the southern tip of Koh Chang Island. Mr. Jakkrit stated that despite the deployment of over 50 personnel and firetrucks, efforts to control the blaze have been hindered by the structure’s construction, wooden fittings and strong winds in the area. By 15.00 officials, including local leaders and national park staff, concluded that the fire could not be extinguished in a short time. The strategy now focuses on preventing the fire from spreading to nearby areas. “The hotel’s wooden structure, which acts as a natural accelerant, and the ongoing windy conditions make this a highly challenging situation,” said Mr. Jakkrit. He added that complete containment is expected to take several days. The Koh Chang Grand Laguna ship hotel, designed to resemble a floating cruise ship, was a unique landmark. It was built in 1992 by businessman Mr. Olan Assawarittikul, who initially invested in the hospitality business in Cambodia before relocating to Koh Chang due to political instability in the region. The ship hotel once thrived as a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors who marveled at its innovative design. However, financial difficulties in recent years led Mr. Olan to put the property up for sale for over 1 billion baht. Despite its high valuation, no official transactions were ever finalized. Fortunately, no tourists to the area were present at the time of the fire, as the ship hotel had long been abandoned. Officials are now awaiting discussions with Mr. Olan, the property owner, to assess the extent of the damages and the future of the site. -- 2024-12-03

Fire Engulfs Iconic “Ship Hotel” on Koh Chang: Emergency Teams Struggle to Contain Blaze A fierce fire has erupted at the abandoned Koh Chang Grand Laguna Hotel, a famous landmark on the island due to its distinctive ship-like design. The blaze broke out at approximately 11.00 on December 3, in the Koh Chang Tai subdistrict and continues to rage, with thick black smoke visible from afar. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1345248-fire-engulfs-iconic-“ship-hotel”-on-koh-chang-emergency-teams-struggle-to-contain-blaze/

Picture and video from responders. A fierce fire has erupted at the abandoned Koh Chang Grand Laguna Hotel, a famous landmark on the island due to its distinctive ship-like design. The blaze broke out at approximately 11.00 on December 3, in the Koh Chang Tai subdistrict and continues to rage, with thick black smoke visible from afar. Eyewitnesses report that the fire began on the third floor of the building before spreading to other parts of the structure. Firefighters and emergency responders are working to bring the situation under control, but after almost 3 hours the fire is still burning. The once-renowned hotel, commonly referred to as the “abandoned ship hotel,” or “ghost hotel” for local claims it is haunted, has been a popular photography spot despite its long-abandoned state and lack of electricity. Safety concerns have prohibited visitors from entering the structure, although the exterior remained accessible. Initial reports suggest that workers were inside the building conducting welding repairs at the time the fire broke out, potentially triggering the blaze. However, authorities have not confirmed this information. Forensic investigators will begin their work as soon as the fire is extinguished to determine its exact cause. Residents and tourists in the area have been advised to avoid the site while emergency crews battle the flames. -- 2024-12-03 ScreenRecording_12-03-2024 14-17-50_1.mp4 ScreenRecording_12-03-2024 15-10-40_1.mp4

UPDATE Pattaya Gold Theft Suspect Arrested After 24-Hour Manhunt Police in Pattaya successfully apprehended a 29-year-old man who stole a gold ring from a gold store in South Pattaya’s Tukcom Mall. The arrest came after an intense 24-hour manhunt involving surveillance footage and undercover operations. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1345112-pattaya-police-launch-manhunt-for-gold-ring-snatcher/#findComment-19423153

UPDATE Pattaya Gold Theft Suspect Arrested After 24-Hour Manhunt Picture courtesy of SiamChon. Police in Pattaya successfully apprehended a 29-year-old man who stole a gold ring from a gold store in South Pattaya’s Tukcom Mall. The arrest came after an intense 24-hour manhunt involving surveillance footage and undercover operations. The incident occurred on the evening of December 1, when the suspect, identified as Mr. Boon Wongsawang, entered the gold store and asked to try on a one-baht gold ring. Once the staff handed him the ring, he declared, “I’m leaving now,” before sprinting out of the store. Mr. Boon attempted to evade police by disguising himself, shedding his jacket and fleeing on a motorbike. However, officers soon identified his movements through CCTV footage and witness accounts. He abandoned his vehicle and fled into nearby brushlands, where police conducted an extensive search. By late evening on December 2, authorities tracked Mr. Boon to a short-term rental in the Khao Mai Kaew area. Aware he was being pursued, the suspect frequently changed locations but was ultimately caught back in Soi Land Office 2 as he attempted to visit his girlfriend. During interrogation, Mr. Boon admitted to the crime. Once a hotel security guard in Pattaya, he had been fired and left destitute. Sleeping near Tukcom Mall, he noticed that the gold store was staffed only by women. Seizing what he saw as an opportunity, he stole the ring and sold it at another gold shop in Pattaya. He confessed that the proceeds from the sale were used to fuel his gambling addiction, buy drugs, and purchase a new phone for his girlfriend. He admitted to having pawned her previous phone to fund his online gambling losses. Pol. Col. Navin Theerawit, Superintendent of Pattaya Police Station, emphasized that no criminal would evade justice in Pattaya. He urged gold shops and pawnshops to cooperate with authorities in similar cases to expedite investigations. “This case was resolved in under 24 hours due to our team’s dedication, but with greater cooperation from businesses, we could work even faster,” he stated. Mr. Boon now faces legal proceedings and was advised by police to take this as an opportunity to start afresh after serving his sentence. Authorities also issued a stern warning to anyone contemplating crimes in Pattaya: escape is futile. -- 2024-12-03