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Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A young woman has died after riding her motorcycle into the rear of a stationary six-wheeled lorry waiting at a red light in Chachoengsao province during the early hours of 26 April. The incident occurred at around 03:00. Pol. Lt. Prayut Dana, the investigating officer at Saen Phu Dat Police Station, received a report of a fatal collision at the Bang Krut traffic lights on Siri Sothon Road (Highway 314, Bang Pakong–Chachoengsao), in Khlong Prawet Subdistrict. Emergency services were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, officers found a large white Hino lorry, registration number from Bangkok, stationary in the third lane of a five-lane junction. The vehicle had stopped properly at the red traffic light and was loaded with goods, covered by a heavy tarpaulin. Investigators discovered a red, unregistered motorcycle wedged beneath the rear of the lorry, severely crushed at the front. Beneath the vehicle, rescue workers retrieved the body of a woman trapped under the wreckage. The deceased, later identified as Ms. Kansuda Khammau, 26, from Nakhon Nayok province, was wearing a shirt bearing the logo of a major telecommunications company. The crash scene was littered with broken motorcycle parts and a trail of blood from the scene. The lorry driver, Mr. Mongkol, 37, from Nong Hoi Subdistrict in Phra Thong Kham District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, told police that he had been transporting latex spring mattresses from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet District, Sa Kaeo Province. Upon reaching the junction, he had slowed and stopped well in advance for the red light. After waiting for approximately a minute, he heard a loud noise from the rear of the lorry and, upon inspection, discovered the motorcycle and the fatal victim. Mr. Mongkol stated that he had complied fully with traffic laws and had come to a complete stop before the collision occurred. Police are continuing their investigation and have sent Ms. Kansuda’s body for a post-mortem examination. Authorities will also work to inform her family and assist with funeral arrangements. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-04-27.

Chiang Mai Café Responds to “Human Zoo” Controversy Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A well-known café in Chiang Mai has defended itself following criticism that it resembles a “human zoo”, after a photo went viral showing workers sorting tobacco leaves while customers enjoyed their drinks nearby. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358928-chiang-mai-café-responds-to-“human-zoo”-controversy/

Picture and video courtesy of Khoasod. A well-known café in Chiang Mai has defended itself following criticism that it resembles a “human zoo”, after a photo went viral showing workers sorting tobacco leaves while customers enjoyed their drinks nearby. The controversy erupted after Dr Nick Suwadee Phanphanich, a former Thai Sang Thai Party parliamentary candidate and executive at Thonburi Hospital, posted an image of herself at Yen.CNX, a café in Chiang Mai. In the background, workers could be seen engaged in traditional tobacco-sorting, a scene which some online critics said created a sense of class disparity and likened to a “human zoo”. However, Dr Suwadee later clarified her intentions, expressing respect for community traditions that showcase diverse livelihoods. “I appreciate cafés that allow people to witness authentic lifestyles that still exist,” she wrote, likening the venue to other establishments such as tea plantations, farm cafés, and weaving centres. “I disagree with the term ‘human zoo’. It reflects shallow thinking and demeans the workers. They have honour and dignity, and we must respect their way of life,” she added. The owner of Yen.CNX, a woman who inherited the business from her family, said she was surprised by the backlash and explained that the café was never intended to exploit anyone. The building was originally her family’s tobacco-sorting factory, dating back to her grandfather’s time and later run by her father and uncle. “The café never intended to diminish the value of any occupation. On the contrary, we believe every profession deserves respect and dignity,” she said. She explained that the space was created to preserve and share the heritage of her family’s tobacco business. Designers were hired to maintain the original architecture, and exhibition rooms were added to educate visitors about the tobacco cultivation and processing history. During the tobacco season, from January to May, real tobacco sorting takes place on site, performed by skilled workers who have long been part of the family operation and are paid fairly for their work. “This café wasn’t created for entertainment,” she stressed. “It’s meant to be a place for learning and storytelling, always with respect for the dignity of every worker.” She also said she welcomed public feedback and would consider it for future improvements. Despite the online debate, reporters in Chiang Mai noted that the café remained busy on 25 April, with a steady stream of customers. The establishment, which has been open for over three years, continues the family’s traditional trade in a modern setting. One visitor, who had heard of the controversy just hours before her visit, said she came specifically to see the café for herself. “Having seen it with my own eyes, I feel differently. It’s like visiting a coffee farm or tea plantation, it’s about showing the process. I think the photo that caused the outrage may have been taken from a misleading angle,” she said. The debate continues to generate discussion online, highlighting broader societal questions around class, tradition, and representation in modern Thai spaces. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-04-27. ScreenRecording_04-26-2025 13-17-57_1.mp4

Appeal for 11-Year-Old Thai Boy Weighing 150kg with Autism & Rare Obesity Condition Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A heart-wrenching appeal has been made on social media to help an 11-year-old Thai boy suffering from extreme obesity, weighing an astonishing 150 kilograms, as well as autism. The child, named Phakphum, lives in the rural village of Non Sang, in Nong Bo Subdistrict, Na Kae District, Nakhon Phanom Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358914-appeal-for-11-year-old-thai-boy-weighing-150kg-with-autism-rare-obesity-condition/

UNESCO Recognises Three Thai Works as Memory of the World Heritage 2025 Pictures courtesy of Matichon. UNESCO has officially recognised three Thai cultural treasures as part of its prestigious Memory of the World Register for 2025, highlighting the country’s rich literary, religious, and diplomatic heritage. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358913-unesco-recognises-three-thai-works-as-memory-of-the-world-heritage-2025/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A heart-wrenching appeal has been made on social media to help an 11-year-old Thai boy suffering from extreme obesity, weighing an astonishing 150 kilograms, as well as autism. The child, named Phakphum, lives in the rural village of Non Sang, in Nong Bo Subdistrict, Na Kae District, Nakhon Phanom Province. Born with congenital obesity and autism, young Phakphum has faced immense health and social challenges from a very early age. He is currently under the care of his 66-year-old grandfather, Mr. Winaikorn Polratjom, while his parents work away in another province in search of income to support the family. According to local health volunteers and relatives, Phakphum has been receiving support to attend a special needs school. However, despite continued care, controlling his eating habits has proven extremely difficult, resulting in a dramatic and dangerous increase in weight. His obesity now severely impacts his mobility and ability to care for himself. Local hospital staff from Na Kae District, along with village health volunteers and related agencies, have since stepped in to evaluate his condition and provide ongoing medical support. Authorities are now considering longer-term measures to assist the boy, focusing on his education and, crucially, managing his weight to avoid life-threatening complications in the future. The family is reported to be living under strained financial circumstances, hovering between low-income and poverty levels, making external support vital. Concerns have also been raised online regarding rumours that the child consumes soil, a behaviour not uncommon in children with autism, and not considered unusual in his case by specialists. Authorities are now urging members of the public, charitable organisations, and healthcare providers to join efforts in supporting Phakphum’s long-term well-being, both medically and socially, to ensure he can lead a healthier and more independent life. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-04-27.

Passenger Catches Chinese Man Red-Handed Stealing on Bangkok-Phuket Flight Picture courtesy of Facebook. A Thai woman has shared a dramatic in-flight experience on a domestic flight from Bangkok to Phuket, where a fellow passenger was caught in the act of stealing valuables from another traveller’s bag. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358912-passenger-catches-chinese-man-red-handed-stealing-on-bangkok-phuket-flight/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon. UNESCO has officially recognised three Thai cultural treasures as part of its prestigious Memory of the World Register for 2025, highlighting the country’s rich literary, religious, and diplomatic heritage. Ms Sasikan Watthanachan, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, announced the news on Friday, stating that the Department of Fine Arts had reported the successful inclusion of the following three Thai entries among a total of 74 newly listed items worldwide: 1. The Manuscript of Nanthopananthasut Kamlaung This ancient Buddhist scripture, authored in 1736 by Prince Thammathibet Chaiyachet Suriyawong (commonly known as Prince Kung), is a significant example of Thai classical literature. It is preserved at the National Library of Thailand under the supervision of the Department of Fine Arts. 2. The King of the White Elephant Film and Related Archival Documents This historical film and its associated documents have been recognised for their cultural and cinematic value. The film is housed at the Thai Film Archive, while related documents are kept at the Thai Studies Institute, Thammasat University. The work reflects important themes of peace and leadership. 3. Archives on the Founding of ASEAN (1967–1976) This entry includes vital documents detailing the formation of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a collaborative submission by Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. The documents are also preserved at the Thai Film Archive. Thailand now has a total of nine entries on UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register. These include the Ramkhamhaeng Inscription, Wat Pho Epigraphs, King Chulalongkorn’s Administrative Reform Records, the Vajirayana Library Glass Plate Negatives and Original Photographs, and other significant historical manuscripts and meeting records. “This recognition underscores the literary, religious, and cultural importance of Thai heritage, not only for the nation but for all humanity,” said Ms Sasikan. “It is a reminder of our responsibility to preserve and pass on this invaluable legacy to future generations.” Those interested in exploring Thailand’s registered Memory of the World documents can visit the official website of the National Archives of Thailand at https://www.nat.go.th/mow/th-th. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-04-27.

Picture courtesy of Facebook. A Thai woman has shared a dramatic in-flight experience on a domestic flight from Bangkok to Phuket, where a fellow passenger was caught in the act of stealing valuables from another traveller’s bag. The incident was recounted in a viral Facebook post by user Orathai Chirapornchai. She described how the theft occurred mid-flight after cabin lights were dimmed and most passengers had dozed off. According to Orathai, she had placed her bag in the overhead compartment and kept her iPad and a book with her for entertainment. Her handbag, containing her wallet, remained securely on her lap. However, the peaceful atmosphere was abruptly shattered when a passenger seated in the aisle seat suddenly shouted, “What are you doing with my bag!” at an elderly Chinese man seated behind him. The accused was allegedly caught red-handed, rummaging through the man’s bag and attempting to remove cash from his wallet. The confrontation escalated quickly, with the victim threatening physical retaliation, even exclaiming, “I know Muay Thai!” Despite the evidence, the Chinese passenger reportedly denied any wrongdoing before breaking into rapid speech in Mandarin. Fortunately, another passenger seated behind Orathai had witnessed the entire incident. She confirmed that the suspect had been opening multiple overhead compartments before eventually taking down the victim’s bag and discreetly rifling through it. Flight attendants promptly intervened, isolating the suspect and alerting airport security to await the aircraft’s arrival in Phuket. Upon landing, authorities were on standby to take the individual in for questioning. Orathai later discovered that her own bag, stored overhead, had also been tampered with. Although her notebook was left untouched, likely due to its size, she expressed deep concern over how close she had come to becoming a victim herself. This incident follows several similar reports in recent months involving Chinese nationals stealing from passengers during flights, often targeting small, high-value items while travellers are asleep. In one high-profile case earlier this month, two Chinese men were apprehended by Suvarnabhumi Airport’s tourist police for repeatedly robbing passengers mid-flight. Orathai ended her post with a warning: “From now on, never leave your valuables in the overhead bin. Always keep them with you, it’s just too risky.” Authorities have yet to issue a statement. Adapted by Asean Now from Daily News 2025-04-27.

Driver Burned Alive in Fiery Crash Between Car and Lorry in Loei Province Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A devastating road accident in the early hours of 26 April, has left one person dead after a car collided with a lorry in Loei province, causing the vehicle to veer off the road and burst into flames. The victim, who was trapped behind the wheel, was found charred inside the car. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358911-driver-burned-alive-in-fiery-crash-between-car-and-lorry-in-loei-province/

Chinese National Arrested at Airport for Murder & Dismemberment of Transgender in Pattaya Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A Chinese man has been arrested at a Bangkok airport after allegedly murdering and attempting to dismember a transgender in a hotel in Central Pattaya, authorities confirmed on the afternoon of 26 April. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358904-chinese-national-arrested-at-airport-for-murder-dismemberment-of-transgender-in-pattaya/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A devastating road accident in the early hours of 26 April, has left one person dead after a car collided with a lorry in Loei province, causing the vehicle to veer off the road and burst into flames. The victim, who was trapped behind the wheel, was found charred inside the car. The fatal crash occurred at approximately 00:15 on Highway 2195 near Ban Wang Peng in Tha Li District. A white Suzuki Swift, registration number from Loei, collided with a heavy goods vehicle pulling a trailer. The impact was so severe that one of the lorry’s front tyres burst from the force of the collision. Local military personnel from Paramilitary Unit 2102 assisted in managing the scene and directing traffic, while firefighters from Ahee Subdistrict Administrative Organisation extinguished the blaze. Inside the burnt-out wreckage of the car, officials discovered the charred remains of an unidentified individual, believed to be male. Forensic teams are working to determine the identity of the deceased. The body has been sent to Loei Hospital for examination and to await relatives. Preliminary investigations suggest that the lorry was climbing a hill en route to Dan Sai District when the car, travelling in the opposite direction downhill, may have crossed into the lorry’s path. The collision caused the car to spin off the road and catch fire almost immediately. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, with forensic officers conducting a detailed inspection of the scene to confirm the circumstances. Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-04-27.

Foreign National Detained After Threatening Jomtien Beachgoers with Scissors Picture courtesy of Pattaya City Police A foreign national was arrested on the afternoon of 25 April after allegedly threatening beach visitors with a pair of scissors, sparking panic along Jomtien Beach. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358894-foreign-national-detained-after-threatening-jomtien-beachgoers-with-scissors/

UPDATE Chinese National Arrested at Suvarnabhumi for Brutal Murder of Transgender Crime scene image from the hotel room. Immigration officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport detained Mr. Fu Tongyuan, a 42-year-old Chinese national, after he attempted to flee the country on China Eastern Airlines flight MU742 to Kunming, China. Mr. Fu was unable to pass through the automated passport control system, prompting further investigation and subsequent arrest. Authorities found that he was on a watchlist for his alleged involvement in the brutal murder of “Nong Note” (Worranan Phannakha), a transgender, in Pattaya. The victim’s body had been mutilated, with the heart, lungs, and silicone breast implants removed. Picture of the suspect arrested at the airport. Officers observed fresh wounds on Mr. Fu’s body and face, believed to be sustained during a struggle with the victim. Nong Note’s family revealed that she was the main provider for the household, working in Pattaya to send money home to support her parents, and that she had previously worked in Taiwan. Her family is demanding the harshest possible punishment, including the death penalty, to achieve justice. CCTV image of the suspect and victim on entering the hotel. Key evidence in the case includes CCTV footage showing Mr. Fu picking up the victim and taking her to his room. Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-04-26.

to continue: Thailand Live Sunday 27 April 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1358910-thailand-live-sunday-27-april-2025/

UPDATE Thai media reports are stating that the victim was a post op transgender and when found, had a deep slash wound in the middle of the chest that revealed the internal organs. The heart had been removed and placed next to the body and police believe one lung was missing from the scene.

Chinese National Arrested at Airport for Murder & Dismemberment of Transgender in Pattaya Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A Chinese man has been arrested at a Bangkok airport after allegedly murdering and attempting to dismember a transgender in a hotel in Central Pattaya, authorities confirmed on the afternoon of 26 April. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358904-chinese-national-arrested-at-airport-for-murder-dismemberment-of-transgender-in-pattaya/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A Chinese man has been arrested at a Bangkok airport after allegedly murdering and attempting to dismember a transgender in a hotel in Central Pattaya, authorities confirmed on the afternoon of 26 April. At approximately 11:00 on 26 April, Pol. Col. Anek Sarathongyu, Superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station, alongside Pol. Lt. Col. Arut Saphanont, Deputy Superintendent of Investigations, and other officers, responded to reports of a deceased person at a hotel located in Pattaya, Chonburi Province. Upon arrival at the scene, police discovered the body of a transgender, concealed inside a bathroom on the second floor of the building. Officers immediately sealed off the area and called in forensic experts and medical examiners to conduct a thorough investigation. Initial examinations of the room revealed a large clothing bag, scissors, and other equipment believed to have been intended for use in concealing or dismembering the body. No unauthorised persons were allowed to enter the scene during the investigation. Preliminary enquiries established that the room had been rented one week prior by a Chinese man, later identified as Mr Tongyung Fu, aged 42. According to other guests, a loud and prolonged altercation was heard emanating from the room at around 01:00 and lasted about an hour. Witnesses reported hearing desperate cries for help during the disturbance, but no one intervened. Image of the suspect released before his capture. In the morning, concerned by the lack of response from the room, the hotel owner attempted to make contact by knocking on the door. Receiving no reply, they entered the room and made the grim discovery. Further investigations and CCTV footage showed the suspect leaving the hotel with a suitcase at 06:00. This led Pattaya Police to swiftly coordinate with Immigration authorities. Mr Tongyung Fu was intercepted at the airport just as he was preparing to board an international flight out of Thailand. He was taken into custody without incident and is being transported back to Pattaya to face charges. Image of the victim from Thai media. Authorities are awaiting the results of a full forensic examination to determine the exact cause of death. Mr Tongyung Fu is expected to be formally charged with murder and related offences in connection with the incident. The investigation is ongoing as police piece together the circumstances surrounding the horrific crime. Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-04-26.

Foreign National Detained After Threatening Jomtien Beachgoers with Scissors Picture courtesy of Pattaya City Police A foreign national was arrested on the afternoon of 25 April after allegedly threatening beach visitors with a pair of scissors, sparking panic along Jomtien Beach. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358894-foreign-national-detained-after-threatening-jomtien-beachgoers-with-scissors/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya City Police A foreign national was arrested on the afternoon of 25 April after allegedly threatening beach visitors with a pair of scissors, sparking panic along Jomtien Beach. The man, whose identity and nationality have not yet been disclosed, was restrained by municipal officers with assistance from beach lifeguards before being handed over to Pattaya City Police at the Dongtan Curve substation. The unsettling incident unfolded in broad daylight, with eyewitnesses reporting the man behaving in an aggressive and erratic manner towards members of the public. One local resident recalled, “He was walking around yelling and pointing at no one in particular. Then he sat in a restaurant talking to himself. He was very scary.” Another witness claimed to have seen the same individual the previous night. “At around 2 a.m., I saw him near the 7-Eleven on Jomtien Second Road. He looked drunk, muttering to himself and staring people down. It was really unnerving,” they said. Beachgoers expressed alarm in the aftermath, with several stating they had never seen the man before and had no prior interaction with him. One tourist remarked that it felt like “vacationing in fear”, noting a rise in unpredictable behaviour from certain individuals, both foreign and local, around the area. Police have not released further details, other than the investigation remains ongoing. Adapted by Asean Now from Pattaya News. 2025-04-26.

Total nonsense, the video and picture were posted long before your comment. How do I know, because it they were my posts and the timings on the posts are also a give away.

UPDATE Plane Wreckage Successfully Lifted Off Beach A crane successfully lifted the wreckage of the police aircraft from beach, near the Hua Hin Air Force Welfare Housing at 19:00 on 25 April. The wreckage will moved a secure location and carefully examined as part of the official investigation into the incident. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358781-police-aircraft-crashes-into-sea-off-cha-am-leaving-four-dead/page/2/#findComment-19758722

UPDATE Plane Wreckage Successfully Lifted Off Beach Pictures from responders. A crane successfully lifted the wreckage of the police aircraft from beach, near the Hua Hin Air Force Welfare Housing at 19:00 on 25 April. The wreckage is expected to be moved to a secure location and carefully examined as part of the official investigation into the incident. Authorities are also awaiting the arrival of team of Canadian experts, who will assist in the joint analysis of the planes recorded data, to support efforts to determine the exact cause of the crash. The National Police Chief has paid tribute to the officers for their dedication and service. The Royal Thai Police announced that the National Police Office had reviewed the officers’ contributions and decided to posthumously promote them and provide financial benefits to their families: 1. Pol. Col. Prathan Kiewkham (Class of 54, pilot trainee) will be posthumously promoted to Pol. Gen. with a financial benefit of 2,684,910 THB and a salary increase of 4 steps. 2. Pol. Lt. Col. Panthep Manee-wachirangkoon (Class of 63, pilot) will be posthumously promoted to Pol. Lt. Gen. with a financial benefit of 1,837,500 THB and a salary increase of 4 steps. 3. Pol. Lt. Jaturong Watthanaprayasan (pilot) will be posthumously promoted to Pol. Lt. Col. with a financial benefit of 664,320 THB and a salary increase of 4 steps. 4. Pol Lt. Thannawat Mekprasertsuk (aircraft engineer) will be posthumously promoted to Pol. Lt. Col. with a financial benefit of 377,960 THB and a salary increase of 4 steps. 5. Pol. Sgt. Maj. Chiratwat Maksa-ka (mechanic) will be posthumously promoted to Pol. Lt. with a financial benefit of 303,040 THB and a salary increase of 4 steps. 6. Pol. Sgt. Phawat Phonhongsa (mechanic) will be posthumously promoted to Pol. Lt. with a financial benefit of 1,182,680 THB and a salary increase of 4 steps. The bodies of the deceased officers were examined at Hua Hin Hospital, with the autopsies completed by 29:00 on 25 April. The remains will be transferred to the Institute of Forensic Medicine at the Police General Hospital for further procedures. On 26 April, a royal water ceremony will be held for the deceased at Wat Trithodthep, followed by a one-night prayer service. The families will also hold the final rites and cremation ceremony at a later date. Procession carrying the bodies of the six police officers as it left Hua Hin Hospital and headed to Wat Tri Thotsathep Worawihan in Bangkok for religious ceremonies. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-04-26.

Woman Seriously Injured in Sattahip Beach Attack Picture courtesy of Sattahip News. Police in Sattahip responded to a violent assault on a woman near the seafront in front of the Queen Sirikit Naval Hospital, located at Sattahip Naval Base, Moo 1, Sattahip District. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358879-woman-seriously-injured-in-sattahip-beach-attack/

Picture courtesy of Sattahip News. Police in Sattahip responded to a violent assault on a woman near the seafront in front of the Queen Sirikit Naval Hospital, located at Sattahip Naval Base, Moo 1, Sattahip District. Pol. Col. Komsan Kamtunkaew, Superintendent of Sattahip Police Station, received the emergency call and immediately coordinated with patrol officers, rescue workers from the Sawang Rojanathammasathan Foundation, and medical staff from the hospital to attend the scene. Upon arrival, authorities discovered a 52-year-old woman, identified as Mrs. Namnong Samsi, suffering from head injuries inflicted by a wooden object. She was bleeding profusely and was given emergency first aid at the scene before being transferred to Queen Sirikit Naval Medical Centre for further treatment. Witnesses at the scene reported that the attacker was a homeless man exhibiting signs of mental instability. The motive for the attack remains unclear. After the assault, the suspect fled to a nearby bus shelter near the lighthouse roundabout, opposite TTB Bank at Sattahip Market. Sattahip police responded swiftly and located the suspect in the vicinity. During the attempted arrest, the man resisted and engaged in a physical struggle with officers. Police were forced to use physical restraint to bring the situation under control and successfully detained the suspect. He has since been taken for psychiatric evaluation, and legal proceedings are now underway. Authorities continue to investigate the motive behind the unprovoked attack. Adapted by Asean Now from Sattahip News 2025-04-26.