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Murder in Trang: 31-Year-Old Found Shot Dead In a shocking incident, a 31-year-old man was found murdered beneath a rubber tree in Trang, with authorities suspecting he was shot four times with a 9mm firearm. The victim, identified as Tiwakorn Saeheng, had been dead for no more than 12 hours before his body was discovered. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352587-murder-in-trang-31-year-old-found-shot-dead/

Woman Arrested for Selling Illegal Vapes & Cannabis Products for Over 4 Years In a bust, police from the Drug Enforcement Division (D.E.D.) have arrested a woman involved in the illegal sale of cannabis products and vapes, reportedly earning profits of up to one million baht per month over the past four years. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352586-woman-arrested-for-selling-illegal-vapes-cannabis-products-for-over-4-years/

Chanthaburi Destroys 245,000 Pieces of Illegal Vapes and Beer Worth 20 Million Baht Chanthaburi Customs has destroyed a significant cache of illegal goods, including vape devices, foreign cigarettes and foreign beer, as part of its commitment to combat smuggling and protect public health. The destruction took place on 21 February at a public area in Ban Nong Laep, located in the Pathawi district of Chanthaburi. This event was attended by local officials and representatives from various agencies. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352582-chanthaburi-destroys-245000-pieces-of-illegal-vapes-and-beer-worth-20-million-baht/

File picture of Prasert Jantararuangtong. Online football and Muay Thai gambling are expected to be legalised, according to Digital Economy and Society (DES) Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong. Prasert stated that a joint working group, comprising the DES Ministry, the Ministry of Interior, and the Office of the Council of State, has convened twice to discuss the matter but has yet to reach a final conclusion on the legalisation of online gambling. He indicated that further discussions would take place, with a summary expected following the next meeting. When questioned on what constitutes online gambling, Prasert noted that authorities are currently deliberating whether to implement a Royal Decree or a ministerial regulation. While the precise criteria are yet to be determined, he confirmed that online betting on football and Muay Thai would be included. Regarding concerns raised by the Council of State, Prasert acknowledged that some definitions are still being clarified. As for the timeline, he estimated that the issue would be presented to the Cabinet no later than March, though it could extend into April. He reassured that work is progressing steadily, and once the fundamental principles are agreed upon, a draft subordinate law will be prepared. This draft will undergo several procedural stages, but Prasert expects its completion by April. -- 2025-02-23

Picture captured from video. An incident of public indecency took place on the rocky shoreline of Krathing Lai Beach in Bang Lamung District, Chonburi, in the early hours of the morning of 22 February. Tourists relaxing on the beach were left stunned as a foreign couple engaged in sexual activity in full view of onlookers. The incident was reported by an 18-year-old witness, referred to as “Biu”, who was at the beach with a group of friends. He recounted that they had chosen a spot where other tourists were also present on the secluded beach. Their peaceful gathering was interrupted by the unmistakable screams of a woman, a foreign national, leading them to discover the couple in question. Biu stated that he initially became suspicious when he noticed the woman was not wearing trousers. Upon realising what was happening, he recorded a video of the incident and attempted to warn the couple to stop. However, they ignored the warnings and continued their actions before eventually washing off in the sea. The witness expressed his shock at the brazenness of the act, adding that he never imagined people would engage in such behaviour in a public space. He urged tourists to exercise discretion and use private accommodation for such activities. This is not the first time such incidents have occurred at Krathing Lai Beach, which, due to its relatively secluded location, has reportedly become a known spot for amorous encounters. Local authorities have yet to make any comments. -- 2025-02-23

Picture from responders. A durian farmer was killed by a wild elephant in Naamsai Village, Moo 17, Rabror Subdistrict, Tha Sae District, Chumphon Province, early morning on 22 February. The victim, identified as 68-year-old Chuan Kanjananarong, was fatally attacked despite warnings from both his wife and local authorities to evacuate the area due to the presence of wild elephants. According to reports from local residents, five wild elephants had entered the village and damaged agricultural crops before one of them turned aggressive and attacked Mr Chuan. Concerned about his farm’s produce, he had chosen to remain at home while instructing his wife to leave for safety. Mr Sumon Kansuwan, a 55-year-old resident, described the growing fear among villagers due to the increasing presence of wild elephants. He explained that around 04:00 to 05:00, villagers spotted the herd near their homes and began evacuating. Unfortunately, Mr Chuan refused to leave, prioritising his crops and property. His lifeless body was discovered at dawn, with the elephant that attacked him still lingering approximately 200 metres away from the scene. Authorities, including forestry officials and local emergency teams, arrived to assess the situation and ensure the safety of the remaining villagers. Due to the ongoing threat, officials advised over ten households to evacuate immediately. Mr Niphon Thongyod, a local administrative officer from Moo 17, confirmed that a monitoring team consisting of village leaders and forestry officials had been tracking the elephants’ movements. They had observed the herd resting around midnight and believed the danger had passed. However, the elephants later returned unexpectedly, leading to the fatal incident. The affected area is part of an extensive forest corridor linking several subdistricts, including Hinkaew, Rabror, Jor Por Ror, and Wang Mai. It serves as a natural habitat for wild elephants, which frequently traverse the region in search of food, often coming into conflict with local communities. With over 100 households in the vicinity, many engaged in durian, palm oil, and rubber farming, concerns over future encounters with wild elephants remain high. Villagers fear not only for their livelihoods but also for their safety as elephant activity continues to escalate. Authorities have pledged to strengthen monitoring efforts and explore measures to mitigate human-elephant conflicts in the region. -- 2025-02-23

Car Turns into Temple, Fatally Runs Over Man A incident occurred early morning on 22 February, when a car turning into a temple ran over a man who was sitting unnoticed on the ground, dragging him under the vehicle and causing his death. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352580-car-turns-into-temple-fatally-runs-over-man/

One Killed & Another Seriously Injured While Fleeing Police Checkpoint A crash in Lampang has claimed the life of a young man and left another seriously injured after they attempted to flee a police checkpoint in the early hours of the morning of 22 February. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352579-teenager-killed-another-seriously-injured-while-fleeing-police-checkpoint/

Picture from responders. A road crash occurred opposite the Shell petrol station on Sukhumvit Road, North Pattaya, involving a small lorry, a pickup truck, and a car. The collision left one man severely injured and trapped inside his vehicle, requiring emergency rescue efforts. At approximately 12:30 on 22 February, the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Pattaya Rescue Centre received a report of a collision on Sukhumvit Road. Rescue teams, equipped with hydraulic cutting tools, were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, emergency responders found a small white lorry bearing a delivery service sticker, heavily damaged at the front. The driver, identified as Mr Suriyawong, 44, was trapped in the wreckage with both legs pinned under the dashboard. After an extensive rescue operation, he was freed using hydraulic cutters and rushed to Pattaya Patthamakun Hospital. Medical reports confirmed that both his legs had compound fractures, with open wounds exposing the bone. Two other vehicles were also damaged in the incident. A black Toyota Vigo pickup truck suffered severe rear-end damage, while a grey Mazda car sustained impact damage, from the pickup being pushed forward. The pickup truck driver, Mr Wisut, 44, recounted that he was slowing down due to traffic congestion when the lorry suddenly rammed into his vehicle, propelling it into the car in front. He immediately contacted emergency services upon witnessing the lorry driver trapped in his vehicle. Further investigation by authorities uncovered an icebox inside the lorry containing opened beer bottles. Officials suspect that the driver may have fallen asleep at the wheel or was under the influence of alcohol. A blood alcohol test will be conducted to determine whether intoxication played a role in the collision. Local police have launched an investigation into the incident, with charges potentially pending depending on the results of the driver’s alcohol test. -- 2025-02-23

Picture from reenactment. A man with a history of domestic violence has been arrested for the murder of his wife in Pak Chong, Nakhon Ratchasima. The suspect, identified as Mr. Banchaa, 51, was apprehended in Khon Kaen after fleeing for several months. The murder occurred on 11 November 2024, which saw Pol Lt Col Suraphat Phadee, an investigator at Pak Chong Police Station, receiving a report about a deceased woman found in her bedroom at a residence in Baan Phasuk, Moo 12, Khanong Phra Subdistrict. The victim, Ms. Seenual Luekwilai, 49, was found with signs of physical assault . Investigators immediately suspected her husband, who had been seen leaving the area with the help of a local resident who transported him on a motorcycle to the Mittraphap Bypass Road. Pol Col Weerapon Rabiabpho, Superintendent of Pak Chong Police Station, had ordered a team led by Pol Lt Col Wichan Klinbuppha to track down the suspect under an arrest warrant issued by the Sikhio Provincial Court (Pak Chong) on 13 November 2024 for causing grievous bodily harm resulting in death. Authorities were alerted by Pol Col Yosawat Kaewsuebthannit, Superintendent of Khon Kaen City Police, and Pol Lt Col Wirot Phumipetchruacha, Deputy Superintendent of Investigation, that the suspect had been detained in Khon Kaen. He was captured following a disturbance at a local karaoke venue. At 09:30 on 22 February, Pak Chong police escorted the suspect back to Nakhon Ratchasima for a crime reenactment. During the reconstruction, the victim's relatives attempted to attack the suspect, prompting officers to intervene. The reenactment lasted approximately 20 minutes before he was returned to the police station. During interrogation, Mr. Banchaa confessed to the crime, stating that he had been living with the victim for some time. He claimed that he assaulted her in a jealous rage after she mentioned another man. Under the influence of alcohol, he had not anticipated that his actions would result in her death. After the incident, he fled to Khon Kaen, where he survived by collecting and selling recyclable materials. Investigations revealed that Mr. Banchaa had a violent past. In 2011, he had fatally assaulted a former partner in Phetchabun before fleeing to Pak Chong. With this latest incident, he has now been linked to two homicides. The suspect is currently in police custody and will face legal proceedings for causing death by assault. -- 2025-02-23

Picture from responders. A crash in the early hours of 22 February saw an oil tanker carrying 43,000 litres of diesel overturn on a curve, leaving the driver dead at the scene. Emergency crews rushed to prevent further hazards, including a potential fire or fuel spillage. At approximately 03:30, Police Lieutenant Thitiphat Khamransi, an investigator at Mueang Chaiyaphum Police Station, received a report from the 191 emergency radio centre regarding a tanker truck incident. The crash occurred on Highway 201, outbound from Chaiyaphum towards Kaeng Khro, near a hatchery factory in Ban Sap Ruang Sai, Na Siao Subdistrict. Police and rescue teams from Sawang Kunnatham Foundation, along with fire trucks from Na Siao Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, authorities found a articulated tanker, registered in Bangkok, overturned. The vehicle had veered off the road and flipped onto its roof, emitting a strong smell of diesel fuel. Rescue workers discovered the driver trapped inside the wreckage. Using hydraulic cutting tools, they extracted the body of Mr Suthipong Thawon, 40, a resident of Kho Hong Subdistrict, Hat Yai District, Songkhla. He had suffered a broken neck and was pronounced dead at the scene. According to emergency responders, the crash site is located on a downhill curve, and initial assessments suggest the driver may have fallen asleep at the wheel. The vehicle is believed to have lost control, veered off the road, and overturned into a roadside ditch. Fortunately, no sparks or flames ignited the fuel, averting a potential disaster. Authorities quickly coordinated with the truck’s operating company to arrange for a transfer of the remaining diesel and prevent environmental contamination. A water truck was stationed nearby as a precautionary measure against potential fires. Police have launched an investigation into the incident, including reviewing CCTV footage from nearby areas to determine the exact cause of the crash. The company responsible for the tanker sent cranes and recovery vehicles to remove the fuel and wreckage. -- 2025-02-23

Terrifying Moment as Wild Elephant Charges at Motorcyclist in Chanthaburi A wild bull elephant with long tusks caused panic in Chanthaburi’s Kaeng Hang Maeo district when it charged at an unsuspecting motorcyclist, narrowly missing him before bolting off into the distance. The dramatic moment, captured on CCTV, left both residents and onlookers in shock. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352578-terrifying-moment-as-wild-elephant-charges-at-motorcyclist-in-chanthaburi/

Picture from responders. A 56-year-old man who had been celebrating a 6,000-baht lottery win by drinking beer for six days and nights was found dead in a pond, having apparently drowned. Authorities suspect intoxication and cramp as the likely causes. At approximately 11:00 on 22 February, Police Lieutenant Pisit Sangket, an investigator at Dan Khun Thot Police Station, Nakhon Ratchasima, received a report of a drowning at a pond behind Nong Bua Takiet Temple, Nong Bua Takiet Subdistrict. Police officers, along with rescuers from the Porisutho Foundation (Hook 31 Dan Khun Thot branch), were dispatched to the scene, where they found local residents gathered around the pond. Divers from the rescue team located the victim at the bottom of the pond, alongside an unopened can of beer and another empty can floating nearby. The deceased was identified as Mr Nong Chulsantiya, 56, a resident of Ban Nong Bua Takiet, Moo 10, Nong Bua Takiet Subdistrict, Dan Khun Thot District. Initial investigations revealed that Mr Nong had been single and lived alone. According to his 57-year-old relative, Mr Mana Chulsantiya, the victim had won 6,000 baht in the 16 February lottery draw and had been drinking beer daily to celebrate. He reportedly rode his bicycle around the village to drink with friends but failed to return home after 19:30 on 21 February. The following morning, his bicycle and shoes were found near the pond, prompting residents to alert authorities. A search of the pond led to the discovery of his body. Authorities believe Mr Nong may have entered the pond to cool off due to excessive alcohol consumption but suffered a cramp and was unable to climb out. His body was sent for autopsy at Luang Phor Koon Parisutho Hospital to confirm the cause of death. Police have launched an official investigation to establish further details and ensure legal procedures are followed. -- 2025-02-23

Two College Students Killed in Motorbike Collision with Songthaew in Nakhon Si Thammarat A road crash claimed the lives of two college students in Nakhon Si Thammarat after their motorbike collided with a songthaew that was making an unsafe U-turn. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352577-two-college-students-killed-in-motorbike-collision-with-songthaew-in-nakhon-si-thammarat/

Jealous 83-Year-Old Fatally Stabs Former Partner Over Bicycle Dispute in Ratchaburi An 83-year-old man went on the run after allegedly stabbing his former partner to death in front of his home in Ban Pong district, Ratchaburi, following a long-standing dispute over a bicycle. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352576-jealous-83-year-old-fatally-stabs-former-partner-over-bicycle-dispute-in-ratchaburi/

Loan Shark Gang Leader Arrested After Violent Debt Collection Incident in Chiang Mai Police have arrested a notorious loan shark gang leader known as “Oat” following reports of violent debt collection tactics, including an attack on a noodle shop in Saraphi district, Chiang Mai. The incident has left local residents fearful and has sparked a crackdown on illegal money lending operations in the region. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352574-loan-shark-gang-leader-arrested-after-violent-debt-collection-incident-in-chiang-mai/

Drunken Russian Passenger Causes Chaos on Flight to Phuket Passengers on a flight from Khabarovsk, Russia, to Phuket, teported to be this week, but no details of the exact date is available, were left stunned after a female traveller, heavily intoxicated mid-flight, created a scene by harassing fellow passengers before stripping off her lower half and lying in the aisle. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1352572-drunken-russian-passenger-causes-chaos-on-flight-to-phuket/

Picture courtesy of DED In a bust, police from the Drug Enforcement Division (D.E.D.) have arrested a woman involved in the illegal sale of cannabis products and vapes, reportedly earning profits of up to one million baht per month over the past four years. On 22 February, a task force from the D.E.D. conducted a raid on a building in Soi Ladprao 87, Wang Thonglang district, Bangkok, as part of an ongoing investigation into the illicit trade of cannabis-infused products, including jelly and mushroom chocolates. During the operation, authorities seized a substantial amount of illegal merchandise, including 200 vapes, 114 boxes of cannabis jelly, 386 cannabis products, 14 jars of compressed cannabis, a mobile phone, a laptop, an account book, and 250,000 baht in cash. Additionally, a firearm with ammunition was confiscated from the premises. The investigation led police to discover that the woman, identified as 32-year-old Nichcha, was the owner of the property. During questioning, she confessed that the seized items were hers and admitted to operating the illegal business for over four years, claiming to make approximately one million baht in profits each month. Preliminary tests on the cannabis jelly revealed the presence of methamphetamine, suggesting dangerous additives that consumers might unknowingly ingest, posing significant health risks. Authorities have filed multiple charges against Nichcha, referencing a Consumer Protection Committee order that prohibits the sale of vape products, including e-cigarettes, which contain harmful chemicals and heavy metals linked to cancer and respiratory issues. Additional charges include the illegal importation of goods without customs clearance, the unlicensed sale of controlled herbs (cannabis), and possession of a firearm and ammunition without proper authorisation. Nichcha has been taken into custody and is now facing legal proceedings at Chokchai Police Station. -- 2025-02-23

Picture from responders. In a shocking incident, a 31-year-old man was found murdered beneath a rubber tree in Trang, with authorities suspecting he was shot four times with a 9mm firearm. The victim, identified as Tiwakorn Saeheng, had been dead for no more than 12 hours before his body was discovered. At approximately 07:00 on 22 February, police were alerted to the scene in the rubber plantation located in Moo 1, Ban Som Phueng, Pa Lelien District. Officers from the local police station, along with forensic investigators, quickly arrived to examine the body. The victim was found lying on his right side, dressed in a t-shirt and black sweatpants, with visible gunshot wounds to his neck, head, and armpit. Nearby, investigators located the victim’s black Honda Dream motorcycle, which had been reported owned by a resident of Bang Ban District in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. The vehicle was found in neutral gear with the keys still inserted, suggesting it had been abandoned hastily. Evidence collected from the scene included two knives, scissors, a rubber cutting knife, a lighter, and a mobile phone. Preliminary examinations indicated the victim had likely died around 6 to 10 hours prior to the discovery of his body, with suspicions that he may have been killed elsewhere and later dumped in the plantation to conceal the crime. Eyewitness reports suggested that residents in the area heard gunshots around 17:30 the day before, raising questions about the timeline of the murder. Moreover, the lack of significant blood at the scene led authorities to consider the possibility that he was murdered elsewhere. Local village headman Nopruj Kuanwilai stated that upon the initial discovery, many thought the victim was merely asleep until the grim reality of a murder became apparent. It was noted that the victim was not a local resident, although he had lived in Trang for the past two to three years and was known to have connections in the area. Investigations revealed that Tiwakorn had a criminal history, including prior arrests for drug possession and illegal firearms in 2015 and 2017. These incidents suggest a potential motive related to personal conflicts or drug-related disputes. The police have handed over the body to medical examiners for a detailed autopsy and are actively pursuing leads to identify the suspect(s) responsible for this brutal crime. The investigation continues as officers analyse CCTV footage from the surrounding area and interview witnesses in hopes of uncovering further details related to the case. -- 2025-02-23

Picture from responders. An 81-year-old man lost his life in ahouse fire in Nakhon Phanom during the early hours of the morning of 22 February. The blaze, which consumed the entire wooden home, also destroyed nearly 100,000 baht in savings and five sacks of rice. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the fire. The fire broke out at approximately 00:30 in Moo 3, Kan Luang Subdistrict, Na Kae District. Upon receiving reports, the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Office dispatched fire engines and rescue teams to the scene. The fire, which had engulfed the house in flames, took around 30 minutes to bring under control. Sadly, the remains of the elderly resident, later identified as Mr. Lai Poompao, were discovered in the charred remains of the house. Emergency responders transported his body to Na Kae Hospital. Eyewitnesses, including 40-year-old neighbour Patcharin Wongnakorn and 68-year-old Lom Poompao, recounted that the fire was first noticed when Patcharin’s daughter heard cracking noises resembling breaking wood. Upon stepping outside, she saw flames already engulfing the roof. Neighbours rushed to alert Mr. Lai by shouting his name, but received no response. They attempted to douse the flames with water but were unable to contain the rapidly spreading fire. It was only after firefighters arrived that the blaze was successfully extinguished, revealing the loss of life. According to Mr. Lom, Mr. Lai was an elderly man who lived alone with no family. His house had no electricity, relying instead on an oil lamp for illumination. Authorities suspect that the fire may have been caused by a fallen oil lamp or another heat source within the home. In addition to the loss of life, Mr. Lai’s life savings of nearly 100,000 baht and five sacks of rice were completely destroyed in the inferno. Investigators continue to examine the site to determine the precise cause of the fire and ensure that such a tragedy does not occur again. -- 2025-02-23

Picture from responders. A father and his two-year-old daughter were shot and injured by their neighbour in what is suspected to be a revenge attack stemming from a decades-old feud. The incident occurred in Kamphaeng Saen District, Nakhon Pathom Province, on the evening of 21 February. According to police reports, at approximately 19:45, officers at Kamphaeng Saen Police Station received a report from Kamphaeng Saen Hospital regarding two individuals suffering from gunshot wounds. Upon arrival, officers found Mr. Thanasak 39, with a gunshot wound to his right side, which had exited through his back. His daughter, Nadha aged two, had sustained a gunshot wound near her right eye. She was later transferred to Nakhon Pathom Hospital for further treatment. Police officers, led by Pol. Maj. Gen. Phongphan Wongmanithet, Provincial Police Chief, along with forensic teams, proceeded to the crime scene. The incident took place in front of Mr. Thanasak’s single-storey home. A blue-and-white Yamaha Fino motorcycle, which Mr. Thanasak had been riding with his daughter, was found with bloodstains on its seat and the surrounding area. Despite his injuries, Mr. Thanasak had managed to ride his motorcycle approximately 30 metres back to his house before being taken to hospital. Following initial investigations, police identified the suspect as Mr. Eka-Oran 43, who lives just 30 metres from the victims. At around 00:30 on 22 February, officers arrested Mr. Eka-Oran and took him to Kamphaeng Saen Police Station for questioning. The suspect later led police to an area near Khao Sapai Raeng Temple in Tha Maka District, Kanchanaburi Province, where he claimed to have discarded the firearm used in the attack. However, the weapon, a .38 calibre handgun, was not recovered. During interrogation, Mr. Eka-Oran admitted to shooting Mr. Thanasak but claimed it was an act of self-defence. He alleged that Mr. Thanasak had passed by his house on a motorcycle, shouted insults at him, and later turned back, leading him to believe he was about to be attacked. In response, he fired his gun in what he described as an attempt to protect himself, unaware that the victim’s young daughter was also on the motorcycle. Following the shooting, he fled the scene in a black Toyota Vigo pickup truck. Reports suggest that the shooting may be linked to an incident 20 years ago in which Mr. Thanasak allegedly shot and killed the suspect’s father. Mr. Thanasak had served a prison sentence and had been released several years ago. Authorities are investigating whether the attack was premeditated revenge. Local residents reported hearing five gunshots but were initially too afraid to check the scene. It was only later, after the gunfire ceased that neighbours emerged and saw emergency responders taking the injured victims to hospital. Police continue to investigate the incident, with further questioning of all involved parties expected before formal charges are filed. -- 2025-02-23

Picture from responders. A crash in Lampang has claimed the life of a young man and left another seriously injured after they attempted to flee a police checkpoint in the early hours of the morning of 22 February. At approximately 03:00, police in Mueang Lampang were conducting a routine alcohol checkpoint on Duangrat Road, Suan Dok Subdistrict, when a motorbike carrying two young men made a sudden U-turn to evade the officers. The driver then rode against the flow of traffic at high speed before crashing into the rear left side of a police patrol car. The impact of the collision sent both riders flying more than ten metres, with their bodies landing near a power pole. The driver, later identified as 22-year-old Mr. Phattarakorn, was pronounced dead at the scene due to severe injuries. The pillion rider, 21-year-old Mr. Nattapong, sustained critical injuries and was rushed to Lampang Hospital for emergency treatment. Police discovered that the motorbike, a grey Yamaha Grand Filano, was brand new and had no registration plates. Neither of the young men was carrying identification at the time of the accident, prompting authorities to launch an investigation to confirm their identities and locate their families. Rescue personnel from the Sawang Nakhon Lampang Foundation arrived swiftly to assist in transporting the injured victim to hospital. Police have since notified the families of the two men and continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. -- 2025-02-23

Picture from responders. A incident occurred early morning on 22 February, when a car turning into a temple ran over a man who was sitting unnoticed on the ground, dragging him under the vehicle and causing his death. At approximately 06:30, Lieutenant Aomsin Sidamat, an investigator from Phetkasem Police Station, received a report of a fatal crash at Wat Rat Bamrung in Soi Phetkasem 69, Lak Song, Bang Khae, Bangkok. Traffic police arrived at the scene to investigate. Upon arrival, officers found a Toyota Altis car with Bangkok registration parked in the temple grounds. An unidentified Thai man was discovered deceased beneath the vehicle. The incident occurred near the entrance of the temple, leading to the parking area, a distance of approximately 15 metres. The driver stated that they were on their way from a nearby residential area. As they turned right into the temple, they failed to notice the man sitting on the ground, resulting in the collision and the victim being dragged under the car before stopping as the car was entering the parking lot. Authorities are working to identify the victim and notify their family while continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. -- 2025-02-23

Picture courtesy of Customs. Chanthaburi Customs has destroyed a significant cache of illegal goods, including vape devices, foreign cigarettes and foreign beer, as part of its commitment to combat smuggling and protect public health. The destruction took place on 21 February at a public area in Ban Nong Laep, located in the Pathawi district of Chanthaburi. This event was attended by local officials and representatives from various agencies. The seized items, which included 245,058 pieces of vapes, vaping accessories, counterfeit cigarettes, and foreign beer, were valued at over 19.5 million baht. These items were declared state property following the conclusion of 67 legal cases related to their illegal importation and distribution. According to Yodpol Vichyakul, the head of Chanthaburi Customs, this operation aligns with the directives of Teerachai Atanavanich, the Director-General of the Customs Department, who has mandated stricter enforcement against the smuggling of cigarettes and vapes, as well as other high-tax items that negatively impact the country’s economy. The initiative aims to safeguard society and enhance public health safety. The recent destruction of these goods serves to demonstrate the seriousness of law enforcement’s efforts in combatting illegal activities. The authorities reported that the majority of illegal vapes were found concealed within modified vehicles designed to evade detection. Officials have urged school administrators and parents to monitor students closely, as vapes are increasingly accessible, often disguised in child-friendly forms. They stressed the importance of collaboration from all sectors to effectively eliminate the illegal trade in vapes, which are classified as prohibited imports under the Ministry of Commerce’s announcement. Violators of the law concerning the illegal sale of vapes may face imprisonment of up to five years or a fine equivalent to four times the value of the goods, or both, as outlined in the Customs Act of 2017. Furthermore, the illegal importation of counterfeit cigarettes is also strictly prohibited, with penalties similar to those for vape-related offences. Foreign cigarettes and beer require special permits from the Excise Department for legal importation. Smuggling these products can result in imprisonment of up to ten years or fines equivalent to four times the value of the goods, or both. -- 2025-02-23

Picture captured from CCTV. A wild bull elephant with long tusks caused panic in Chanthaburi’s Kaeng Hang Maeo district when it charged at an unsuspecting motorcyclist, narrowly missing him before bolting off into the distance. The dramatic moment, captured on CCTV, left both residents and onlookers in shock. The incident occurred on the morning of 22nd February in Moo 2, Khao Wongkot subdistrict. The elephant, which had reportedly run amok after emerging from a nearby fruit orchard, suddenly encountered an elderly man riding his motorcycle along a dirt road. In a split-second reaction, the elephant lunged forward, attempting to strike with its tusks, but fortunately missed. The terrified rider, estimated to be in his 50s and believed to be a rubber plantation worker from the area, managed to get his motorcycle to the other side of the road, escaping without injury. Local shop owner Usa Chuenpirom, whose CCTV captured the event, said wild elephants frequently roam the area in search of food, typically emerging from the forest between 19:30 and 21:00. On 20th February, four elephants were spotted in the vicinity, an occurrence she described as normal. However, she was alarmed when she heard loud trumpeting early morning, only to later discover the shocking footage of the near-tragic encounter. Usa’s sister, Kanchana Chuenpirom, confirmed that her sister-in-law’s son had also recorded the scene on his phone. The video showed the elephant storming through fruit orchards, crossing the road, and charging at the motorcyclist before continuing its frantic run. The footage was shared online as a warning to others to remain vigilant. Santi Chuenpirom, Deputy President of Khao Wongkot Subdistrict Administrative Organisation (SAO), stated that based on the video, the elephant did not appear to be aggressive but rather seemed to be fleeing in distress, possibly having been separated from its herd or startled by barking dogs. He urged authorities to monitor the situation and take necessary steps to prevent further incidents in the community. Local officials and residents are now calling on wildlife conservation agencies to address the issue of wandering elephants to ensure the safety of both the animals and the local population. -- 2025-02-23