Georgealbert

A fire broke out on November 17, at a three-story commercial building in Soi Wutthakat 33, Chom Thong District, early morning, resulting in extensive property damage and one fatality. The fire erupted at approximately 01:00 at No. 11, Soi Wutthakat 33, Wutthakat Road, Bang Kho Subdistrict. The building housed a motorcycle repair and sales shop named M-Drive Wutthakat Branch on the ground floor and residential accommodations on the upper floors. The fire originated on theground floor, engulfing the shop and spreading rapidly. A total of 28 motorcycles, both for sale and repair, were destroyed. The flames reached the first floor, which was used as a living area, causing almost total fire damage to that level. Tragically, a 62-year-old woman lost her life in the fire. She was found in a bedroom on the first floor, where she likely became trapped as the fire spread. Authorities are continuing their inquiry to uncover the circumstances leading to this tragic fire. Pictures courtesy from responders. -- 2024-11-18

Speeding Car Crashes Into Four Homes After Bar Fight, Injures Elderly Woman in Saraburi A crash left four homes damaged and one elderly woman critically injured in Saraburi. The incident occurred when a group of intoxicated men fled a bar fight in a speeding vehicle, which they spun out of control and crashed into a row of houses in the Pak Phriao Subdistrict. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343838-speeding-car-crashes-into-four-homes-after-bar-fight-injures-elderly-woman-in-saraburi/

In the early hours of November 17, a crash left four homes damaged and one elderly woman critically injured in Saraburi. The incident occurred when a group of intoxicated men fled a bar fight in a speeding vehicle, which they spun out of control and crashed into a row of houses in the Pak Phriao Subdistrict. At approximately 02:00, CCTV footage captured a speeding Isuzu MU-X swerving and clipping a parked white Honda and D-Max before careening into a two-story row house complex on Pichai Ronnarongsongkram Road. The impact severely damaged four of the five houses in the row. The driver, identified only by his nickname, Pao, was found in the wrecked vehicle, while a critically injured woman, 71-year-old “Aunt Maeo,” was discovered beneath the car. Maeo, a respected community leader, suffered broken ribs and internal bleeding. She was rushed to Saraburi Hospital and remains in critical but stable condition. Police discovered that the driver and four or five male passengers were heavily intoxicated. Initial investigations revealed the group had been drinking at a bar in Saraburi city before getting into an altercation with another group. In an attempt to flee, they sped away recklessly, leading to the crash. Witnesses reported chaotic scenes following the collision. One of the intoxicated men reportedly told a young woman at the scene to “stay quiet,” further frightening residents. Police took all involved parties to the station for questioning and administered alcohol tests. A resident, Saji, 47, whose shop sustained major damage, described the moment of impact. “It was like an explosion. The car plowed straight into our homes. We were sleeping and woke up to a deafening crash. It took us 10 minutes to find the injured woman under the car.” Saji’s niece, 18-year-old Hansinee, was visibly shaken. “I was upstairs sleeping when it happened. It was terrifying. I thought the house was collapsing. My main concern was for my grandmother, who was downstairs. I’m just grateful she’s alive. Picture from responders. -- 2024-11-18

French Tourist Warned for Riding Electric Scooter on Koh Phangan Roads Police on Koh Phangan have issued a stern warning to a French national caught riding a one-wheeled electric scooter on public roads. The incident highlights growing safety concerns over the use of such vehicles on the island. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343837-french-tourist-warned-for-riding-electric-scooter-on-koh-phangan-roads/

Police on Koh Phangan have issued a stern warning to a French national caught riding a one-wheeled electric scooter on public roads. The incident highlights growing safety concerns over the use of such vehicles on the island. On November 17, the Koh Phangan Police Station Facebook page posted images of the rider along with a cautionary message: “Electric scooters like this are prohibited on public roads due to safety concerns and their inability to be legally registered. If an accident occurs, there is no insurance coverage to rely on.” The police report revealed that a patrol officer spotted the French tourist operating the one-wheeled electric scooter on the 200 Years Road in Phet Phangan Municipality. The officer stopped the rider and issued a warning, explaining that these scooters are not permitted on public roads due to their unregistered status and potential dangers to both riders and other motorists. Public reaction to the incident has been vocal. Comments on the police station’s Facebook post include: • “He rides very fast. Yesterday, he cut in front of a car near the fresh market—it was almost an accident!” • “I see him every day, going up and down the road multiple times. It’s terrifying, especially when larger vehicles are nearby.” • “This is dangerous. The police should take action before something serious happens.” Following the post, police confirmed that the tourist was warned not to use the scooter on public roads again. Authorities emphasised that if he is caught repeating the offense, the scooter will be confiscated, and he will face fines and stricter legal actions. The incident serves as a reminder for tourists and locals alike to adhere to road safety regulations to ensure the well-being of all road users on the island. Picture courtesy of police facebook page. -- 2024-11-18

First Fatality: Motorcyclist Dies in Crash on Newly Opened U-Turn Bridge A crash claimed the life of a 32-year-old man from Si Sa Ket when his motorcycle collided with the edge of a newly constructed U-turn bridge in Samat Prakan. The impact caused him to fall to the ground below, resulting in fatal injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343836-first-fatality-motorcyclist-dies-in-crash-on-newly-opened-u-turn-bridge/

A crash claimed the life of a 32-year-old man from Si Sa Ket when his motorcycle collided with the edge of a newly constructed U-turn bridge in Samat Prakan. The impact caused him to fall to the ground below, resulting in fatal injuries. The incident occurred on the night of November 16 at approximately 23:00. Police from Bang Bo Police Station, medical personnel from Bang Bo Hospital, and rescue workers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation responded to the scene on Theparat Road in Ban Rakat Subdistrict, Bang Bo District. Underneath the U-turn bridge near kilometre marker 32 on the inbound expressway, authorities discovered the lifeless body of the victim, identified only as Mr. A. He was found with a broken neck and multiple fractures to his arms and legs. The victim’s motorcycle was located on the bridge, overturned near visible marks of a collision along the bridge’s edge. A shoe belonging to the deceased was also found nearby on the bridge. Police suspect the crash occurred when the victim lost control of his motorcycle while navigating the bridge. The motorcycle reportedly struck the barrier, causing him to fall off the structure. The U-turn bridge, recently completed and opened to the public, has now recorded its first fatal incident. The victim’s body has been sent to the forensic unit at Ramathibodi Chakri Naruebodindra Hospital for further examination. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the exact circumstances of the accident. Picture from responders. -- 2024-11-18

A fire tore through a cluster of wooden homes in the Nakaam community of Sri Songkhram District, Nakhon Phanom, on the morning of November 17, destroying nine houses and leaving residents homeless. No injuries or fatalities were reported, but authorities suspect an electrical short circuit as the cause of the blaze. The fire broke out at approximately 07:30 in Moo 11, Nakaam Subdistrict. Police Colonel Srinakorn Naiwat, Superintendent of Sri Songkhram Police Station, received an alert from the 191 emergency hotline and immediately coordinated with local firefighting teams. Fire trucks from Nakaam Municipality and neighbouring districts were dispatched to the scene. When authorities arrived, flames were rapidly consuming the densely packed, elevated wooden homes, some of which were decades old. The close proximity of the houses and the aged wooden construction allowed the fire to spread quickly. It took more than an hour for firefighters to bring the blaze under control. Seven homes were completely destroyed, while two others sustained significant damage. Local authorities have launched relief efforts to assist the affected residents. Temporary housing is being arranged, and a support centre has been established to provide basic necessities and assistance. Preliminary investigations suggest the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit. Authorities are working to determine the origin of the fire and will conduct a thorough investigation to confirm the cause. Legal proceedings will follow as necessary. Picture from responders. -- 2024-11-18

Hot-Tempered Pattaya Rider Attacks Russian Woman After Speeding Complaint Pattaya police are investigating an incident involving a motorbike taxi rider who allegedly attacked a Russian woman after she complained about his reckless driving. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343833-qhot-tempered-pattaya-rider-attacks-russian-woman-after-speeding-complaint/

Pattaya police are investigating an incident involving a motorbike taxi rider who allegedly attacked a Russian woman after she complained about his reckless driving. Miss Osipova, 41, a Russian real estate agent, filed a police report at Pattaya City Police Station. She appeared with a swollen cheek and a split lip, stating she had been assaulted by a motorbike taxi rider she booked through a ride-hailing app. According to Miss Osipova, the incident occurred around 01.00 on 17 November. She booked a ride from Pratumnak Hill. A young male rider arrived to pick her up. However, less than a kilometre into the ride, she became alarmed by his high-speed driving and the lack of a helmet for her use. Concerned for her safety, she asked him to slow down. As they approached a police post at the viewpoint park entrance on Pratumnak Hill, Miss Osipova requested the rider to stop the bike. Infuriated, the rider parked, turned around, and punched her repeatedly in the face, leaving her bloodied. The assault was witnessed by local residents exercising nearby, who rushed to intervene. Miss Osipova managed to record part of the incident on her phone as evidence. Despite the witnesses' efforts to de-escalate the situation, the rider shouted profanities, including "F*** YOU," and attempted to continue his attack before fleeing the scene on his motorbike. Mr. Sak, a 45-year-old bystander who assisted Miss Osipova, recounted that he was riding his motorbike home when he noticed the commotion. He stopped to help after seeing Miss Osipova injured and bleeding. Upon learning the details of the assault, he escorted her to the police station to file a report. Police have since registered the case and sent Miss Osipova to the hospital for medical treatment. Investigators are currently reviewing CCTV footage and gathering information to track down the rider, who is reportedly a driver registered with a ride-hailing app. Authorities have assured that the suspect will be brought to justice and face legal consequences for the assault. Picture of the victim. -- 2024-11-18

This is Thai media coverage, showing some of the CCTV and the arrest,

UPDATE Foreign Husband of Suspect in Prosecutor’s Mother Murder Case Detained & Questioned Rayong investigators have detained and questioned the foreign husband of a woman accused in the murder and robbery of the mother-in-law of a prosecutor. The arrest occurred after officers raided the suspect’s home in Sriracha, Chonburi Province, seeking additional evidence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343759-woman-found-dead-in-palm-plantation-identified-as-prosecutor’s-mother-in-law/#findComment-19387763

UPDATE Foreign Husband of Suspect in Prosecutor’s Mother Murder Case Detained & Questioned Rayong investigators have detained and questioned the foreign husband of a woman accused in the murder and robbery of the mother-in-law of a prosecutor. The arrest occurred after officers raided the suspect’s home in Sriracha, Chonburi Province, seeking additional evidence. On November 17, at 11:00, a team led by Pol. Col. Apichanan Wattanawarangkul, head of the Rayong Investigation Unit, along with forensic officers and Chonburi Immigration officials, executed a court-approved search warrant at a residence in Sriracha. The operation targeted the home of Mrs. Kamonwan Wolf and her foreign husband, Mr. Wolf Waldemar, 68. Police initially believed that the husband had driven to stay in Pattaya after his wife was arrested, but he was at home when police carried out the search warrant. During the search, investigators questioned Mr. Waldemar and collected DNA samples from the house for forensic analysis. The results will be compared with evidence from the crime scene. Authorities believe this could provide critical insights into the case. Mrs. Kamonwan, who had scratches and bruises on her arms when arrested, has been formally charged with premeditated murder and remains in custody. Pol. Col. Apichanan stated that the collected evidence would be subjected to further forensic scrutiny to strengthen the case against the accused. The investigation is ongoing as police work to piece together all evidence related to this crime. Pol. Col. Phatthana Roprue, Superintendent of Wang Chan Police Station, is preparing to call all relevant parties to a meeting to process the evidence and prosecute the suspect. He also expects to arrest accomplices because it is believed that there more than one perpetrator in this killing. Picture courtesy of Thai Rath -- 2024-11-17

The Loei Provincial Court has issued an arrest warrant for former monk Phra Maha Paktavee Phimkeeree (Akkaveero), also known as “Khruba Arm,” aged 34. Despite serving as a monk for 10 years, the former resident of Wat Pa Veluwanaram in Wang Saphung District, Loei, is accused of defrauding temple donors of millions of baht and losing the funds through online gambling. On November 15, the court issued warrant No. J.4282 for Mr. Paktavee’s arrest on charges of fraud. The case involves allegations of borrowing money under false pretenses from various individuals, including the director of Pak Chom Hospital and the provincial ecclesiastical governor. He allegedly misused these funds, originally intended for temple projects, for gambling activities. The fraud began on May 2, 2024, when Mr. Paktavee approached the director of Pak Chom Hospital, claiming to represent the abbot of Wat Pa Veluwanaram. He requested an advance of 300,000 baht, supposedly to organise a charity event for a temple construction project. Over the following months, he made five more requests, borrowing a total of 7 million baht. He claimed the funds were for projects such as a pilgrimage to Sri Lanka, promising future donations to repay the debt. However, after the pilgrimage, he disappeared, and the abbot denied authorising any such actions. Further investigations revealed that Mr. Paktavee had opened bank accounts under the temple’s name and redirected donations into these accounts. Over 200 million baht reportedly flowed through these accounts, with most transactions occurring at night and directed to banks in Chiang Rai and Mae Sai District. It is believed the total amount lost to online gambling maybe as high as 100 million baht. The scandal came to light after the abbot and temple committee questioned Mr. Paktavee, leading to his confession. He signed an agreement acknowledging his debts, but the damage was already done. The abbot and other officials reported him to the police, as the funds came from public donations. Despite being summoned by authorities, Mr. Paktavee failed to appear, prompting the issuance of the arrest warrant. Police suspect he may be planning to flee to a neighbouring country. The case has shocked the temple’s devotees, many of whom were high-ranking officials, doctors, and others who deeply respected the temple’s abbot. The abbot, a disciple of the renowned meditation master Luang Pu Chob Thanasamo, has long been a figure of reverence in Loei Province. Followers who donated to the temple are demanding justice and questioning whether their contributions ever reached the temple. Mr. Paktavee’s close association with the abbot had earned him public trust during his monastic career. However, the betrayal has left a trail of financial and emotional damage, with victims spread across multiple provinces. Police are actively pursuing leads to locate Mr. Paktavee and ensure he faces justice for his actions. The case has become a high-profile example of misuse of public trust in Thailand’s religious institutions. Picture courtesy of Daily News. -- 2024-11-17

UPDATE 14 Year Old Burglar Arrested for Australian Condo Heist in Pattaya A teenage burglar was arrested after breaking into an Australian businesswoman’s condo and stealing valuables worth over 3 million baht during the Loy Krathong festival. Pattaya police identified the 14-year-old suspect as a runaway from a local children’s home, linked to several thefts across the city. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343762-australian-businesswoman’s-condo-in-pattaya-robbed-over-3-million-baht-stolen/#findComment-19387590

UPDATE 14 Year Old Burglar Arrested for Australian Condo Heist in Pattaya A teenage burglar was arrested after breaking into an Australian businesswoman’s condo and stealing valuables worth over 3 million baht during the Loy Krathong festival. Pattaya police identified the 14-year-old suspect as a runaway from a local children’s home, linked to several thefts across the city. Police were alerted and acted swiftly, apprehending the suspect just hours after the crime was reported. Among the recovered items were Rolex and Cartier watches, gold necklaces, bracelets, rings, and diamond jewellery. Ms. Annie, visibly relieved, praised the efficiency of the police for recovering most of her belongings. The police used CCTV footage to identify the suspect, a 14-year-old Lao national referred to as “Chang” . The footage showed him entering the condominium at 02:10 through a side entrance, breaking into Ms. Annie’s room via a glass door, and leaving with the stolen items around 04:00. Police tracked the suspect’s escape route and arrested him near Nong Or Temple in Central Pattaya, approximately 6 kilometres from the crime scene. Police revealed that the young suspect had recently escaped from Banglamung Children’s Home. Just days earlier. He had been sent to the facility after a failed burglary and escaped on November 14 and carried out this latest theft on November 15. During questioning, the suspect admitted to the crime and pleaded with Ms. Annie not to press charges, claiming he has autism. Ms. Annie expressed concern for the teenager’s well-being, hoping authorities would provide proper care and guidance to help him reform. Further investigation uncovered additional crimes linked to the suspect. Another victim came forward, identifying him as the person who stole over 20 amulets from a rental room on the same night. Clear CCTV evidence corroborated this claim. Police have detained the teenager for further investigation, while forensic teams continue to gather evidence. Authorities are also reviewing measures at the children’s home to prevent similar incidents in the future. Picture courtesy of Khaosod of the suspect begging for forgiveness at the police station. -- 2024-11-17

The story makes no reference to any foreigner being involved, but this picture of the arrest of the female suspect is being used by Thai media. The suspect has what appears to be a non-Thai surname, but no other details have been made public.

UPDATE Suspect Arrested in Brutal Murder and Robbery of Prosecutor’s Mother-in-Law Picture courtesy of Matichon. Police have arrested a suspect in connection with the murder and robbery of a prosecutor’s mother-in-law, whose body was discovered in a palm plantation in Wang Chan district, Rayong. The suspect is reported to be someone close to the victim. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343759-woman-found-dead-in-palm-plantation-identified-as-prosecutor’s-mother-in-law/#findComment-19387381

UPDATE Suspect Arrested in Brutal Murder and Robbery of Prosecutor’s Mother-in-Law Police have arrested a suspect in connection with the murder and robbery of a prosecutor’s mother-in-law, whose body was discovered in a palm plantation in Wang Chan district, Rayong. The suspect is reported to be someone close to the victim. The victim, identified as Mrs. Wanna Kortner, 67, an employee of a prosecutor’s office, was found dead on November 15. Her body was discovered face down on a dirt road in a palm plantation in Pa Yub subdistrict. The gruesome crime scene revealed severe injuries, including a crushed forehead caused by a blunt object and a deep wound to the back of her neck. Both her ring fingers had been severed and were missing. Authorities estimated she had been dead for over six hours when her body was found. The police have apprehended the suspect, identified as Mrs. Kamolwan Wolf, 56, a resident of Sri Racha, Chonburi, and a close friend of the victim. The arrest was made under a warrant for premeditated murder issued by the Rayong Provincial Court. Pol. Lt. Gen. Somprasong Yen Tuam, Commissioner of Region 2 Police, ordered Pol. Maj. Gen. Thirachai Chamnanmor, Commander of the Investigation Division of Region 2, to coordinate with Rayong and Chonburi police to ensure swift action in the case. Preliminary investigations revealed that Mrs. Kamolwan allegedly called the victim and picked her up from her home. The two then drove to Mrs. Kamolwan’s residence before heading to the crime scene, where the murder and robbery occurred. The suspect is accused of leaving the victim’s body in the plantation before fleeing the scene. The suspect’s vehicle, which was used during the incident, has been seized for forensic analysis. Despite Mrs. Kamolwan’s denial of the charges, police have ruled out the involvement of any other individuals, citing substantial evidence linking her to the crime. Authorities continue to investigate the case and are analyzing forensic evidence to strengthen their case against the suspect. Pictures of the arrest courtesy of Matichon. -- 2024-11-17

Fire at Pattaya Condo Sparks Panic Among Tourists Picture courtesy of SiamChon. Tourists were left in shock early morning, as a fire broke out in a sixth-floor unit of a Condominium in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343793-fire-at-pattaya-condo-sparks-panic-among-tourists/

Tourists were left in shock early morning on November 17, as a fire broke out in a sixth-floor unit of a Condominium off Thappraya Road, in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi. At approximately 06:35 Pattaya’s Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Center received reports of a blaze in the residential building. Firefighters and rescue teams from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation were dispatched promptly. Upon arrival smoke was seen billowing from Room 613 on the sixth floor. Foreign tourists were quickly evacuated from the building to ensure their safety. Fire crews took about 25 minutes to bring the blaze under control using hose-lines from fire trucks. According to witnesses, the room where the fire began was unoccupied at the time. One resident reported noticing smoke coming from the building and contacted the room’s owner immediately. Initial investigations suggest an electrical short circuit as the likely cause of the fire. The flames caused extensive damage to the room’s contents. Forensic experts from Chonburi will conduct a detailed investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident. Pol. Lt. Puttarak Sonkamhan from Pattaya Police Station’s Dongtan sub-branch arrived to oversee the situation. It is believed that the building’s fire suppression system was non-functional due to a lack of water supply. Firefighters resorted to using bathroom taps and connecting hoses to fire trucks to extinguish the flames. The condominium’s 15-story structure and proximity to Jomtien Beach made the situation particularly concerning for both Thai and international tourists. Emergency services ensured all residents were safely evacuated. Authorities are now coordinating with relevant agencies to inspect the building’s fire safety systems and address any deficiencies. Legal action may follow if negligence is confirmed. Pictures and video courtesy of SiamChon -- 2024-11-17 ScreenRecording_11-17-2024 09-51-35_1.mp4

Could be, but normally in a BLEVE (boiling liquid expanding vapour explosion) I would expect the cylinder to break up more and fly in all directions. I think this was more likely a HICT (heat induced cylinder tear). I also wonder why the cylinder’s pressure release did not operate, maybe laid down for transport, so liquid not gas acting on the pressure release. But impossible to make a full analysis without inspecting the full scene.

Fully agree, any response action plan has to consider responder safety first. This is the remains of one of the cylinders off the truck.

8-Year-Old Boy Drowns in Mun River While Trying to Retrieve Money from Krathong An 8-year-old boy drowned in the Mun River while attempting to retrieve money from a floating krathong during Loy Krathong festivities. Rescue teams spent over five hours searching before recovering his body from the river. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343772-8-year-old-boy-drowns-in-mun-river-while-trying-to-retrieve-money-from-krathong/

An 8-year-old boy drowned in the Mun River while attempting to retrieve money from a floating krathong during Loy Krathong festivities. Rescue teams spent over five hours searching before recovering his body from the river. Police Lieutenant Colonel Ratthaphon Polkaew, Deputy Inspector at Warin Chamrap Police Station in Ubon Ratchathani Province, received a report of a boy drowning near the pier by Wat Phoonsim in Nong Kin Plae Subdistrict. Rescue teams from the Jeetum Kor Foundation and Sawang Buchatham Foundation were dispatched to the scene with divers. According to a friend of the deceased, the boy, identified only as “Master A,” had invited him to go fishing at the pier. While there, Master A noticed a krathong near a long-tail boat docked at the pier. He climbed onto the boat in an attempt to retrieve it but lost his grip, fell into the water, and disappeared beneath the surface. Divers searched the river for over five hours before finding the boy’s body submerged approximately 20 metres from the shore. Authorities handed over the boy’s body to his family for funeral arrangements and religious rites. Picture from responders. -- 2024-11-17