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A dramatic rescue operation unfolded on November 9, as Thai authorities rushed to save a 27 year old Chinese tourist who lost consciousness while snorkelling in the Similan Islands and was not wearing a life jacket. The incident occurred around 14:40 at Mu Ko Similan National Park, located on Koh Miang in Phang Nga Province. According to reports from TSK Marine, the tourist, identified as Mr. Lou Yiling, had been snorkeling for the third time that day without wearing a life jacket when he began to struggle and eventually lost consciousness in the water. National park rangers swiftly responded to the emergency, bringing the unconscious tourist ashore to the Similan Islands’ Koh Miang marine security station. First responders noted that the man was unresponsive and vomiting blood, prompting immediate first aid. With his condition deemed critical, the team coordinated a rapid transfer to the Khao Lak Medical Centre for further treatment. At approximately 15:15, a park-operated speedboat transported Mr. Lou to Thap Lamu Pier, where he arrived at 16:40. Subsequently, at 18:00 the Royal Thai Navy’s Third Naval Area dispatched a helicopter to transport him to a medical facility with advanced medical care. Picture courtesy of Matichon -- 2024-11-10

French Tourist Rescued After Self-Harm Incident in Phuket Hotel Phuket City Police responded swiftly to aid a French tourist who had inflicted self-harm in a hotel room on Phuket Road, in the Talat Yai area. The 34-year-old man was discovered by hotel staff after exhibiting distressing behaviour Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343058-french-tourist-rescued-after-self-harm-incident-in-phuket-hotel/

Thaksin accused of undermining Thai monarchy, court decision imminent Picture courtesy of Thairath Former Thailand Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has not yet provided testimony in a legal case where both he and the ruling Pheu Thai Party face serious allegations. The accusations suggest attempts to undermine Thailand’s constitutional monarchy. This development comes as the deadline for public prosecutors to submit their findings to the Constitutional Court is fast approaching. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343017-thaksin-accused-of-undermining-thai-monarchy-court-decision-imminent/

to continue Thailand Live Sunday 10 November 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1343097-thailand-live-sunday-10-november-2024/

Chinese Tourist Talked Down After Climbing Tree in Distressed State in Pattaya Rescue officials in Pattaya responded to an unusual incident involving a distressed tourist who had climbed a tree in a parking lot on Phettrakul Road, Nong Prue, Bang Lamung, Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343060-chinese-tourist-talked-down-after-climbing-tree-in-distressed-state-in-pattaya/

Rescue officials in Pattaya responded to an unusual incident at 22.05 on November 8, involving a distressed tourist who had climbed a tree in a parking lot on Phettrakul Road, Nong Prue, Bang Lamung, Chonburi. The Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Centre coordinated with disaster prevention teams and Pattaya City Police to handle the situation. Upon arrival, they found a crowd gathered around the banyan tree, estimated to be over a century old and wrapped in colourful ribbons and offerings from locals. In the branches, a Chinese tourist identified as Mr. Lin Jinhua was perched, visibly anxious and seemingly afraid of something. Rescue personnel and police attempted to calm Mr. Lin, encouraging him to come down, but he initially refused. As the tres was not that high negotiations continued and after more than 30 minutes, he eventually climbed down voluntarily, where authorities quickly held him to prevent him climbing the tree again and escorted him away, for a medical assessment. A nearby tour bus driver, who wished to remain anonymous, explained that he had seen Mr. Lin arguing with his wife, both appeared to be under the influence of either alcohol or drugs. Suddenly, Mr. Lin ran toward the tree and climbed up before anyone could intervene. The driver attempted to call him down but was unsuccessful, prompting him to contact emergency services for assistance. The tourist was safely brought down, and authorities are investigating the incident, but don’t expect to take any legal action. Picture and video from responders. -- 2024-11-09 ScreenRecording_11-09-2024 11-23-10_1.mp4

French Tourist Rescued After Self-Harm Incident in Phuket Hotel Phuket City Police responded swiftly to aid a French tourist who had inflicted self-harm in a hotel room on Phuket Road, in the Talat Yai area. The 34-year-old man was discovered by hotel staff after exhibiting distressing behaviour Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343058-french-tourist-rescued-after-self-harm-incident-in-phuket-hotel/

Phuket City Police responded swiftly on the evening of November 9, to aid a French tourist who had inflicted self-harm in a hotel room on Phuket Road, in the Talat Yai area. The 34-year-old man, identified only as Mr. Mathieu, was discovered by hotel staff after exhibiting distressing behaviour, prompting an urgent call to authorities. At approximately 17:40 police and medical responders arrived at the hotel following a report from the hotel owner, who was concerned about the guest's well-being. After attempts to communicate with the man were unsuccessful, officers made the decision to force open the door to reach him. Upon entering, they found Mr. Mathieu with self-inflicted injuries and a knife nearby. The officers immediately provided first aid before transporting Mr. Mathieu to Vachira Phuket Hospital for further treatment. His condition has since been stabilised, though he remains under medical supervision. Following the incident, police contacted the French Embassy in Thailand to locate and inform Mr. Mathieu's family and to provide additional support. Local authorities and the hotel staff have since expressed relief at the timely intervention, noting the importance of vigilance in ensuring guest safety. The French Embassy has expressed gratitude to the Thai police and medical teams involved in the rescue. Picture from responders. -- 2024-11-09

A large fire broke out at an auto accessory shop on the Sukhumvit Old Road near Soi Bang Makkhao, in Samut Prakan’s Muang District, on the evening of November 8. The fire, initially ignited by a cooking accident, quickly engulfed the shop and spread to a five-story apartment complex behind it. Local police from Samut Prakan’s Muang Station received an emergency call about the fire at 21:30 and coordinated with firefighters from Bang Pu municipality and nearby areas, dispatching multiple fire trucks. Emergency response teams, including personnel from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation and Por Tek Tung Foundation, rushed to the scene to assist in firefighting and rescue efforts. Upon arrival, authorities found intense flames raging within the shop, engulfing several vehicles inside. The blaze rapidly spread to the apartment building behind the shop, forcing nearby residents to hurriedly remove valuables and evacuate the building. Firefighters had to rescue apartment occupants, many of whom were trapped in upper floors by the flames and smoke, before they could focus on containing the fire. After battling the flames for over an hour, firefighters managed to bring the fire under control. The blaze, however, left significant damage: the auto accessory shop was completely destroyed, with three cars and three motorcycles inside also burned. The apartment building sustained fire damage to four rooms on the fourth and fifth floors. Three individuals suffered injuries in the incident. Among them was a firefighter who experienced difficulty breathing from smoke inhalation, a 65-year-old shop resident named Mr. Patchara Burakamnakorn, who sustained burns, and a resident who also inhaled smoke. All were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. Mr. Patchara, the shop owner, recounted the incident, explaining that while he was cooking, some burning material splashed onto a pile of paper, causing the fire to spread quickly. His partner had locked the shops doors, and there was no water available to extinguish the flames in time. The couple lived in the shop with one other person. Ms. Kanya Burakamnakorn, 57, who lives on the third floor of the apartment, said she was about to go to bed when she smelled smoke and stepped outside her room to find the hallway filled with smoke. She immediately grabbed her son, and they rushed out. She noted she was unsure of where the fire had started but mentioned hearing noises before noticing the smoke. Police have stated that they will summon those present at the time of the incident for further questioning and will work with forensic teams to investigate the cause of the fire and determine the extent and cost of the damage. Pictures from responders. -- 2024-11-09

Fire Erupts at Auto Accessory Shop, Spreads to Nearby Apartment Complex A large fire broke out at an auto accessory shop on the Sukhumvit Old Road near Soi Bang Makkhao, in Samut Prakan’s Muang District. The fire, initially ignited by a cooking accident, quickly engulfed the shop and spread to a five-story apartment complex behind it. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343045-fire-erupts-at-auto-accessory-shop-spreads-to-nearby-apartment-complex/

Elderly Disabled Man Drowns at Jomtien Beach A man with a disabled leg tragically drowned at Jomtien Beach in Pattaya during the early evening.Witnesses, including startled tourists, observed good Samaritans assisting the elderly man, estimated to be around 60-70 years old. Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343044-elderly-disabled-man-drowns-at-jomtien-beach/

An elderly man with a disabled leg tragically drowned at Jomtien Beach in Pattaya on the evening of November 8. The incident occurred around 17:05 prompting local authorities and rescue personnel to respond. Police Lieutenant Colonel Chonlawit Athiphansee, Deputy Investigator at the Dongtan substation of Pattaya City Police, received the distress call and coordinated with Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation rescue staff, who arrived on the scene promptly. Witnesses, including startled tourists, observed good Samaritans assisting the elderly man, estimated to be around 60-70 years old. He was wearing long-sleeved clothing, long pants, and shoes. The bystanders helped bring him to shore, where rescuers attempted to revive him by administering CPR. Despite their efforts, the man was pronounced dead shortly thereafter. No signs of assault or identification documents were found on his person. According to Mrs. Sirilak Sriperat, a 61-year-old owner of a beach chair rental at Jomtien Beach, the elderly man, whose name and nationality remain unknown, had been seen sitting at the water’s edge, after a nearby boat operator noticed something amiss with him in the water and assisted him back to shore, placing him in a wheelchair. While seated, he seemed to drift into sleep, eventually tipping over with his wheelchair. Onlookers helped him up, but shortly afterward, he returned to the beach on his own without the wheelchair and sat by the water once again. Later, onlookers observed his body floating face-down in the water. A number of foreign tourists helped to rescue him, but unfortunately, it was too late. The circumstances of his actions have led some to question if the man had intended to harm himself. Lieutenant Colonel Chonlawit Athiphansee, the investigating officer, briefed Police Colonel Navin Theerawit, Superintendent of Pattaya Police Station, on the incident. Investigators are exploring two main theories: either the man was accidentally pulled under by waves due to his physical limitations, or he may have taken his own life, as his attire was unusual for swimming. The body will be sent to the Police General Hospital’s forensic institute for further examination, as the investigation into the incident continues. Picture from responders. -- 2024-11-09

Thai Police Crack Down Catches 72 Illegal Cambodian Migrant Workers Thai Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), in collaboration with the Marine Police Division, successfully intercepted and detained a group of 72 Cambodian nationals attempting to enter Thailand illegally to be employed in the smuggling of goods. The operation took place off the coast of Koh Si Chang in Chonburi Province, following reports of illegal activities in the area. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343043-thai-police-crack-down-catches-72-illegal-cambodian-migrant-workers/

Thai Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), in collaboration with the Marine Police Division, successfully intercepted and detained a group of 72 Cambodian nationals attempting to enter Thailand illegally to be employed in the smuggling of goods. The operation took place off the coast of Koh Si Chang in Chonburi Province, following reports of illegal activities in the area. The Marine Police, led by Police Colonel Chatchai Suwan, deployed Patrol Boat 634 to monitor and curb criminal activity in the region. During the patrol, officers spotted a vessel, Rung Ruang Sap, heavily laden with passengers who appeared to be foreign nationals. Upon boarding the vessel, authorities identified the passengers as Cambodian nationals lacking proper documentation. Mr. Pramarn, the boat’s captain, was detained for transporting the undocumented individuals. The migrants had reportedly entered Thailand via the Ban Laem checkpoint in Chanthaburi Province before boarding the vessel at Charin Pier in Si Racha District, Chonburi. Their intended destination was the waters off Koh Si Chang, where they planned to engage in work connected with the smuggling of goods into Thailand. Following the arrests, the authorities processed the individuals for potential victim identification to determine if any had been trafficked. The detainees were subsequently handed over to Koh Si Chang Police Station for further investigation and legal proceedings. CIB and Marine Police officials confirmed they would be conducting further investigations to track down the employers and those involved in facilitating illegal migration, aiming to bring all responsible parties to justice. The successful operation was directed by Police Lieutenant General Jiraphop Phuridech, CIB Commissioner, with close coordination from senior officials in the Marine Police Division, Immigration Office of Chonburi, and local welfare and labor protection agencies. This inter-agency effort underscores Thailand’s commitment to enforcing immigration laws and ensuring safe labor practices. The CIB emphasizes its dedication to upholding law and order in a professional, impartial, and community-focused manner. Further actions are underway to address illegal labor practices and trafficking concerns within the country. Picture and video courtesy of CIB -- 2024-11-09 ScreenRecording_11-08-2024 19-45-58_1.mp4

Bangkok City Worker Dies in Apparent Suicide, Wife Reveals Struggles with Health Issues Police from Prawet Station responded to a report of a fatal fall in Soi On Nut 86, Prawet District, where a 43-year-old city worker was found dead outside his residence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343042-bangkok-city-worker-dies-in-apparent-suicide-wife-reveals-struggles-with-health-issues/

On the morning of November 8, police from Prawet Station responded to a report of a fatal fall in Soi On Nut 86, Prawet District, where a 43-year-old city worker, Mr. Wichian, was found dead outside his residence. The deceased, who worked as a driver for a mobile restroom unit for the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), was discovered by a security guard at approximately 05:55. His wife, Ms. Somchit, recounted that Mr. Wichian had been struggling with depression and other chronic health issues, which she believes may have contributed to his decision to end his life. At the time of the incident, Ms. Somchit had already left for her job as a street sweeper, leaving her husband at home alone. Authorities are investigating the case and await forensic examination results. There were no CCTV cameras in the area, which may complicate efforts to gather further evidence about the circumstances leading to the incident. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai) or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress or depression. Seek help. Picture from responders. -- 2024-11-09

Woman Rescued After Falling Into Opening at Construction Site in Bangkok A woman was injured after accidentally falling into a four metre deep opening at a construction site in Bangkok’s Phaya Thai district. The incident occurred at an unidentified construction area off Soi Ari 1. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343041-woman-rescued-after-falling-into-opening-at-construction-site-in-bangkok/

A woman was injured after accidentally falling into a four metre deep opening at a construction site in Bangkok’s Phaya Thai district. The incident occurred around 15:35 on November 8, at an unidentified construction area off Soi Ari 1. Rescue teams from multiple units quickly mobilised to assist the victim. The injured woman, whose identity has not yet been disclosed, reportedly fell into the hole while working on-site, and suffered a serious spinal injury. Local rescue units, including teams from Dusit, Taopoon, and the Phra Mongkutklao Hospital CLS. emergency unit, arrived at the scene shortly after receiving the report. The challenging rescue operation involved carefully lifting the woman on a spinal board, from the deep opening. Rescue workers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation and the Phra Mongkutklao Hospital team worked diligently to ensure her safety and used a site lifting cage to bring her out of the opening. After being successfully brought to the surface, the victim was stabilised on-site before being transported to Rajavithi Hospital for further medical treatment. She remains under observation. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the fall and to assess whether safety protocols were adequately followed at the site. Picture from responders. -- 2024-11-09

Police Arrest Fugitive After Threatening Relatives with Gun, Challenging Authorities Online Picture courtesy of TMN. Police in Region 2 apprehended a 34-year-old fugitive, Mr. Panatporn, wanted on a warrant issued by Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Court, after he had allegedly threatened his relatives with a firearm and challenged authorities on social media. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343040-police-arrest-fugitive-after-threatening-relatives-with-gun-challenging-authorities-online/

Police in Region 2 apprehended a 34-year-old fugitive, Mr. Panatporn, wanted on a warrant issued by Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Court, after he had allegedly threatened his relatives with a firearm and challenged authorities on social media. Police Major General Teerachai Chamnanmor, Commander of the Region 2 Investigation Division, received information that Mr. Panatporn was hiding in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi. Officers conducted surveillance and located him riding a motorcycle near Nong Prue Police Station. Upon verifying his identity, police presented the arrest warrant and took him into custody without resistance. The suspect admitted to being the individual named in the warrant for “trespassing on another person’s residence with the intent to harm, armed with a weapon.” He explained that his actions stemmed from anger towards relatives he claimed were harassing him. In a fit of rage, he armed himself and confronted them. He was previously arrested and served eight months in prison under the Firearms Act. Upon his release, he assumed his legal issues were over, only to be rearrested for trespassing. Prior to his capture, Mr. Panatporn had posted online, challenging police, suggesting they would struggle to arrest him unless they used lethal force, while also criticising his adversaries. Known for his habit of carrying firearms, he became a person of interest for police in Khemmarat District, who suspected he was working in a restaurant in Pattaya. Region 2 officers detained Mr. Panatporn at the Nong Prue Police Station, where he was processed and subsequently handed over to Khemmarat Police for prosecution in the original jurisdiction. Picture courtesy of TMN -- 2024-11-09

Seven Injured in Multi-Vehicle Collision at Hat Yai Intersection A crash involving multiple vehicles occurred at a busy intersection in Hat Yai, Songkhla Province, resulting in injuries to seven people. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343039-seven-injured-in-multi-vehicle-collision-at-hat-yai-intersection/

A crash involving multiple vehicles occurred on the morning of November 8, at a busy intersection in Hat Yai, Songkhla Province, resulting in injuries to seven people. At approximately 10:00 local police were alerted to a collision at the intersection near Big C Khlong Hae, located in the Khlong Hae sub-district of Hat Yai. Responding to the scene, officers from the Hat Yai Police Station, along with emergency rescue teams from Khlong Hae Municipality, the Thung Sieang Tong Foundation, and Thachang Municipality, quickly provided aid to the injured and assessed the accident site. Upon arrival, responders found a damaged Malaysian-registered Proton Saga. The car’s left-side doors were crushed, and the front left window shattered. The two individuals in the Proton were injured and immediately taken to Hat Yai Hospital. Additionally, a Mitsubishi Pajero SUV with license plate from Songkhla, though still operable, sustained front-end damage. The crash also involved three motorcycles, two of which were regular bikes and one equipped with a sidecar, which were stopped at the traffic light at the time of the crash. Eyewitness accounts indicated that the Malaysian car was heading from Lopburi Ramesuan Road and intended to make a turn towards Hat Yai when it collided with the Pajero, which was driving straight through the intersection. The impact sent the sedan crashing into the waiting motorcycles, injuring five additional people. According to statements from the drivers, the Proton driver reported attempting a left turn towards Hat Yai when the Pajero collided with it. The Pajero driver, however, claimed to have been driving straight with a green light when the Proton unexpectedly turned in front of him. Police will interview both drivers and examine CCTV footage from the intersection to clarify the cause and identify any potential traffic violations. Any vehicle dashcam footage from those involved will also be reviewed to determine responsibility for the accident. Picture from responders. -- 2024-11-09

Fire Breaks Out at Suan Dok Temple in Chiang Mai A fire broke out at Suan Dok Temple, a royal temple in Mueang District, Chiang Mai, causing significant damage to a two-story monk’s residence. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1343038-fire-breaks-out-at-suan-dok-temple-in-chiang-mai/

A fire broke out on the morning of November 8, at Suan Dok Temple, a royal temple in Mueang District, Chiang Mai, causing significant damage to a two-story monk’s residence. The fire, which authorities believe was caused by an electrical short circuit, was reported around 07:30. Upon receiving the alert, Chiang Mai Governor Nirut Pongsitthithaworn instructed Deputy Governor Weerapong Ritrod to oversee the situation on-site. Firefighters from the Chiang Mai Municipality quickly dispatched fire engines to the scene, containing the blaze within 40 minutes. One monk sustained minor burns injuries from the flames. Preliminary assessments indicate that the fire originated on the upper floor of the wooden residence, which was nearly destroyed, along with all belongings. Authorities are investigating the exact cause of the fire and assessing the extent and costs of the damage. Picture from responders. -- 2024-11-09