Georgealbert

Picture courtesy of Naewna A high-ranking police officer in Roi Et province has died from suicide at his residence, leaving behind a handwritten letter requesting forgiveness and providing final instructions to loved ones. The incident occurred on the morning of 6 June 2025 at approximately 07:50, when Pol. Lt. Thanyawit Phanthura, Deputy Inspector of Phanom Phrai Police Station, received a report from the station’s radio centre regarding a self-inflicted gunshot incident at a private residence in Phanom Phrai district. Upon receiving the report, Pol. Lt. Thanyawit promptly informed his superiors. He was joined at the scene by senior officers, including Pol. Col. Ratchaphong Nampatsa (Superintendent of Phanom Phrai Police Station), Pol. Lt. Col. Nipon Wandee-si, Pol. Lt. Col. Mongkhon Phanadon (both investigators), as well as a team of uniformed and plain-clothed officers. They were accompanied by doctors from Phanom Phrai Hospital and volunteers from the Udomwate Rescue Unit. The scene was a two-storey private residence. Inside the living room on the ground floor, officers found the body of a Pol. Lt. Col. [Name withheld], who held the position of Deputy Superintendent (Investigation). He was dressed in a T-shirt and sports shorts, lying motionless with his body extended across the armrest of a sofa. His right hand was gripping a 9mm semi-automatic handgun, which still had a live round chambered. A wound was found on the right temple, with the bullet exiting through the left side of his head. A spent shell casing was located roughly two metres from the body. A bullet hole was observed on the left armrest of the sofa, with the projectile later found on the stairwell after ricocheting off the banister. Blood stains were visible on the floor behind the sofa, while a suicide note was discovered in front of the deceased. The letter, written in the officer’s own hand, outlined 11 specific points, one of which was a request for “Ahosikarma” – a plea for spiritual forgiveness. Police forensic investigators from Roi Et province, along with hospital staff, completed a thorough examination of the scene. Authorities are now compiling witness testimony and evidence in accordance with legal procedures. The motive behind the officer’s decision to end his life remains unclear, and police have yet to disclose the contents of the remaining items in the farewell letter. The investigation is ongoing. 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 out help. Adapted by Asean Now from Naewna 2025-06-08

Mother Seeks Justice After Daughter Forced to Sell Juice Until 01:00 Picture courtesy of Komchadluek. A heart-wrenching story of child exploitation emerged this week when a distraught mother turned to the Pavena Foundation for help, revealing her nine-year-old daughter had been forced by her former partner to hawk orange juice at night until 01:00, without attending education, adequate food, or rest. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362998-mother-seeks-justice-after-daughter-forced-to-sell-juice-until-0100/

Picture courtesy of Komchadluek. A heart-wrenching story of child exploitation emerged this week when a distraught mother turned to the Pavena Foundation for help, revealing her nine-year-old daughter had been forced by her former partner to hawk orange juice at night until 01:00, without attending education, adequate food, or rest. Ms. Noi 28, filed a formal complaint through Mrs. Pavena Hongsakul, Chairperson of the Pavena Foundation for Children and Women, to Pol. Col. Apichart Thongpae, Chief of Phra Pradaeng Police Station. Ms. Noi’s daughter, referred to as Miss A, had allegedly been taken away at the age of two by her former partner, Mr. Bank 29, who is not the biological father but was listed as such on the birth certificate. According to the mother, Mr. Bank, supported by his own mother, raised the child under the promise of providing proper care and education. However, after years of silence and evasion, Ms. Noi discovered her daughter had been exploited, forced to walk the streets selling orange juice outside restaurants from early evening until the early hours of the morning. The child was often hungry, denied schooling and subject to physical abuse if she failed to meet sales expectations or showed fatigue. Ms. Noi explained that following the couple’s separation when the child was two, she allowed the child to remain with her ex-partner’s family due to financial hardship and their insistence on raising the girl. Over time, communication dwindled, especially after the mother lost her job during the COVID-19 pandemic. The former partner and his mother moved frequently and never disclosed their new address. Two years ago, the mother was shocked to see a video clip, sent by her brother, showing a young girl selling juice at night in Lad Ya, Bangkok. Recognising her daughter, she attempted to reconnect through Mr. Bank’s younger brother, who claimed the girl was “doing fine” and enrolled in school. On rare occasions, video calls were allowed, but always under supervision, with the child too frightened to speak openly. The situation reached breaking point on 11 May this year when Ms. Noi’s brother, who lives in the Ekachai-Bang Bon area, received a call from a friend who had seen the girl selling juice in Suksawat. The uncle brought the child home, and she tearfully told him, “I miss Mum. I want to go live with her. I’m not allowed to go to school.” However, shortly after, Mr. Bank was informed of the situation and demanded the child be returned immediately. The uncle, fearing conflict, took the girl to a convenience store near a major shopping centre in Bang Khae, where Mr. Bank arrived an hour later, scolded and struck the child in public before taking her away. A concerned citizen had previously alerted the Pavena Foundation about a similar case involving a young girl and a muscular man forcing her to sell orange juice in the Bukkhlo area. This turned out to be Mr. Bank and another daughter he had with a new partner. Authorities had been unable to locate them at the time due to their transient lifestyle. Following the recent developments, Mrs. Pavena personally accompanied Ms. Noi to Phra Pradaeng Police Station to file an official complaint. She also coordinated with Ms. Anintita Rujiraprapha from the Samut Prakan Department of Social Development and Human Security and Ms. Amornrat Satabut, head of the local shelter for children and families. Thanks to their combined efforts, both Mr. Bank and the child were brought in for questioning. In a deeply emotional moment, mother and daughter were finally reunited and embraced each other in tears. Pol. Col. Apichart confirmed that Mr. Bank confessed to the allegations and has been charged under Section 26 (5) of the Child Protection Act, which prohibits using children for economic exploitation, including as street vendors or beggars. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of three months in prison and a fine of up to 10,000 baht. Adapted by Asean Now from Khomchadluek 2025-06-08

Eastern Police Commander Visits RTCC Centre to Promote High-Tech Crime-Fighting Cooperation Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Commander of Provincial Police Region 2, Police Lieutenant General Yingyos Thepjumnong, led a delegation of senior officials from Thailand’s eastern provinces on a visit to the Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) at the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) in Bangkok. The visit aimed to explore cutting-edge crime-fighting technology and discuss deeper collaboration to strengthen public safety across the eastern region. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362997-eastern-police-commander-visits-rtcc-centre-to-promote-high-tech-crime-fighting-cooperation/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Commander of Provincial Police Region 2, Police Lieutenant General Yingyos Thepjumnong, led a delegation of senior officials from Thailand’s eastern provinces on a visit to the Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) at the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) in Bangkok. The visit aimed to explore cutting-edge crime-fighting technology and discuss deeper collaboration to strengthen public safety across the eastern region. Accompanied by key regional figures such as Mr. Poramet Ngampichet, Mayor of Pattaya; Police Major General Thawatchakiat Jindakornsanan, Chonburi Provincial Police Chief; and Police Major General Theerachai Chamnarnmor, Region 2 Investigation Commander, the delegation was warmly welcomed by Police Lieutenant General Jiraphop Bhuridej, Commissioner of the CIB, and Police Major General Saruti Kwangsopha, Deputy Commander of the Border Patrol Police and Acting CIB official. The RTCC, a flagship initiative of the CIB, is equipped with a suite of advanced technologies that enhance real-time crime tracking, surveillance, and response capabilities. These include extensive CCTV coverage, 24/7 incident alert systems and integration with national crime databases. Together, these tools empower law enforcement with fast, data-driven decision-making in both investigations and emergency situations. Speaking after the visit, Lt. Gen. Yingyos stated: “If we can achieve full data integration between Region 2 and the RTCC, it will significantly enhance our ability to monitor and prevent crime, particularly in vulnerable areas such as tourism zones, special economic regions and border districts that are often at higher risk of security threats.” He further proposed that Provincial Police Region 2 serve as a pilot model for nationwide collaboration in data-sharing and digital policing under the Royal Thai Police. The goal would be to bolster long-term safety for both residents and international visitors across the eastern provinces. The visit marks a significant step toward modernising law enforcement operations in Thailand. The integration of real-time intelligence and inter-agency cooperation reflects a growing recognition of the need for technological innovation in tackling 21st-century crime challenges. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-08

Motorbike Mechanic Killed in Road Crash – Blind Mother and Young Son Devastated by Loss Picture courtesy of Matichon. A road crash has claimed the life of a 34-year-old motorbike mechanic, leaving behind his blind mother and 10-year-old son, who now face a life of hardship without their sole provider. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362996-motorbike-mechanic-killed-in-road-crash-–-blind-mother-and-young-son-devastated-by-loss/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A road crash has claimed the life of a 34-year-old motorbike mechanic, leaving behind his blind mother and 10-year-old son, who now face a life of hardship without their sole provider. At approximately 10:25 on 6 June, Pol. Lt. Apivat Phokin-saeng of Thung Khru Police Station received a report of a fatal collision between a motorcycle and a pickup truck in front of Wat Thung Khru, near Soi Pracha Uthit 84 in the Thung Khru district of Bangkok. Upon arrival, emergency responders discovered a grey Ford pickup truck (registration from Bangkok) parked stationary in the left lane of the road. The vehicle’s right-side front door was dented and its window shattered. The driver, a man aged around 50–55, remained at the scene to give a statement to police. Nearby, the body of Mr. Likhitkul Buasin, aged 34, lay on the road. He was wearing a white short-sleeved T-shirt and brown trousers, barefoot. Paramedics noted severe trauma: a deep wound on his chin, a puncture wound on his forehead, a broken jaw, a fractured neck and heavy bleeding from his mouth, nose, and ears. Despite emergency CPR efforts by the Poh Teck Tung Foundation rescue team, Mr. Buasin was pronounced dead at the scene. Volunteer first responder Mr. “S”, who arrived shortly after the accident, said, “When I got there, he was unconscious, bleeding from the ears and mouth. I couldn’t determine if he had a pulse. We stabilised his neck and assessed his injuries, but they were very serious. It appeared he was not wearing a helmet. I want to urge all motorcyclists to always wear helmets for their own safety.” Mr. Buasin was reportedly returning home to bring gifts for his mother and son after a short trip. His partner, 29-year-old Ms. Pop, stated: “He had just come back from abroad and wasn’t feeling well. He dropped me off and then went to see his mum and son. His mother is blind, and his son is still in primary school. He was the only one providing for them. I’ll try to help, but I can’t do everything. I really hope someone out there, maybe an agency or a kind-hearted person, can support them.” Mr. Buasin’s mother, 62-year-old Ms. Ladda, tearfully described her son as the pillar of the family. Blind for more than 30 years due to a failed cataract surgery, she is now left to care for her young grandson alone. “My son took care of everything, groceries, food, essentials. He never refused to help. He was on his way home to give us something when this happened. I was in shock when I heard. I still can’t believe it.” She added, “I’ve been blind for over three decades. I can manage around the house, but I can’t go outside. My grandson is only 10. I don’t know how we’ll manage now.” Police have taken the pickup truck driver to Thung Khru Police Station for further questioning. The body of the deceased has been sent to Siriraj Hospital for autopsy. Authorities will release the remains to the family for religious rites once documentation is completed. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-08

Chaos at Ban Khlong Luek Border Checkpoint as Early Closure Catches Thais & Cambodians Out Picture courtesy of Amarin. Confusion and chaos erupted at the Ban Khlong Luek permanent border crossing in Aranyaprathet district on the afternoon of 7 June, after authorities unexpectedly closed the Thai-Cambodian Friendship Bridge early, leaving large crowds of Thai and Cambodian nationals stranded. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362995-chaos-at-ban-khlong-luek-border-checkpoint-as-early-closure-catches-thais-cambodians-out/

Picture courtesy of Amarin. Confusion and chaos erupted at the Ban Khlong Luek permanent border crossing in Aranyaprathet district on the afternoon of 7 June, after authorities unexpectedly closed the Thai-Cambodian Friendship Bridge early, leaving large crowds of Thai and Cambodian nationals stranded. At around 16:00, paramilitary rangers from Company 1201, along with troops from the Aranyaprathet Task Force of the Burapha Force, abruptly sealed the border. Military personnel erected steel barricades across the Thai side of the bridge, barring all vehicular and pedestrian traffic from crossing in either direction. The closure stranded hundreds of Cambodian nationals who had been working or trading at the bustling Rong Kluea Market on the Thai side. Many gathered at the checkpoint, desperately trying to return home. Similarly, Thai workers based in Poipet, Cambodia, were unable to re-enter Thailand. Military officials explained that the move was part of a graduated response strategy. Authority for such closures had been delegated from the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army to the First and Second Army Region Commanders, who now have discretion to open or close border points as deemed necessary. Additionally, the Army announced revised operating hours for all permanent and temporary border checkpoints. Effective from 7 June 2025, official border opening hours have been shortened from the previous 06:00–22:00 to 08:00–16:00. Trade-relief points will now operate only from 08:00–12:00. Further restrictions were also imposed: Thai nationals are prohibited from crossing into Cambodia for gambling or tourism purposes. Only Thais employed in Poipet are allowed to travel between the two countries and their Cambodian visa stays have been reduced from 14 days to just 7. Today marked the first day under the new 16:00 closing time, but the abrupt enforcement caught many off guard. Soldiers began sealing the checkpoint at the scheduled time, without prior public warning, triggering confusion and frustration among those trying to cross. In a bid to defuse tensions, the Commander of the Burapha Force later granted a temporary exemption, allowing stranded Cambodians to return home. However, Thai citizens and tourists were still not permitted to cross. The measure helped ease congestion and calm the situation at the border, which had reached near-panic levels earlier. This development comes amid heightened security concerns and a tightening of border regulations in the region. Officials have yet to confirm how long the stricter measures will remain in place. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-06-08

Lorry Driver Falls Asleep at the Wheel, Kills Policeman and Elderly Woman Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A devastating road crash in Chonburi province has claimed the lives of a traffic police officer and a 66-year-old woman after a lorry driver allegedly fell asleep at the wheel and veered into oncoming traffic. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362994-lorry-driver-falls-asleep-at-the-wheel-kills-policeman-and-elderly-woman/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A devastating road crash in Chonburi province has claimed the lives of a traffic police officer and a 66-year-old woman after a lorry driver allegedly fell asleep at the wheel and veered into oncoming traffic. The fatal crash occurred at approximately 18:00 on 6 June on Route 349 (Phanat Nikhom–Nong Chak Road) in front of a Shell petrol station in Moo 9, Thung Khwang Subdistrict, Phanat Nikhom District, Chonburi. Police Lieutenant Colonel Khemanat Sukee of Phanat Nikhom Police Station was notified of a serious collision involving a lorry and a car. Emergency services from Thung Hiang Rescue Unit and Panat Nikhom Hospital were quickly dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, they discovered a black Honda Jazz, registration number from Chonburi, with its front damaged. Trapped inside the wreckage were Police Lieutenant Manop Sritrai, Deputy Inspector of Traffic at Mueang Chonburi Police Station and Ms Kamonluk Plodprong, 66, who was seated in the front passenger seat. Rescuers worked to extricate the pair from the vehicle and transport them to Panat Nikhom Hospital. Both succumbed to their injuries shortly after arrival due to the severity of their conditions. Nearby, a Hino lorry with registration number from Pathum Thani, was found stationary at the crash site. The driver, identified as 28-year-old Sarawut Photisiri, remained at the scene and cooperated with authorities. Sarawut told police that he had been driving from Chanthaburi to Bangkok via Nong Chak and Phanat Nikhom when he briefly nodded off at the wheel. He acknowledged the momentary lapse led his vehicle to cross into the opposite lane and strike the victims’ car head-on. “I was tired and must have dozed off. I didn’t mean for this to happen. I am truly sorry for what I’ve caused,” he said, visibly shaken. Police took Sarawut into custody for further questioning. Legal proceedings are underway, and he is expected to face multiple charges, including reckless driving causing death. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-08

Public Consultation Held for New Terminal Design at Surat Thani Airport Picture courtesy of Kaoded. The Department of Airports (DOA) has conducted a second and final round of public consultations regarding the design of a new passenger terminal at Surat Thani Airport, as part of its long-term regional air transport development strategy. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362993-public-consultation-held-for-new-terminal-design-at-surat-thani-airport/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. The Department of Airports (DOA) has conducted a second and final round of public consultations regarding the design of a new passenger terminal at Surat Thani Airport, as part of its long-term regional air transport development strategy. The consultation took place at the Ubolratana Rajakanya Meeting Hall in Phunphin District, Surat Thani. The event was chaired by Mr Witsak Chamnarnusit, Deputy Governor of Surat Thani, with participation from Ms Preeya Chuaykhong, Director of Surat Thani Airport, and representatives from the Department of Airports. The project aims to enhance the airport’s capacity from 1,400 to approximately 2,000 passengers per hour by the year 2050. The new terminal is designed to meet growing demand and replace the existing facility, which is outdated and no longer sufficient. The DOA has commissioned Tropier Company and Green Planet Consultant Co., Ltd. to carry out the terminal’s architectural and engineering design, as well as to prepare an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) revision and procurement documentation. The planned development, located in Moo 3, Hua Toei sub-district, Phunphin district, includes a new terminal for both domestic and international flights, interior and landscape architecture, upgrades to the existing terminal, and the construction of two multi-storey car parks. The project study period spans 300 days, from 13 September 2024 to 9 July 2025. During the session, consultants presented key findings, draft designs and proposed environmental mitigation measures. These include: • A modern wastewater treatment system to meet environmental standards • Biannual canal dredging in April and November to prevent flooding • Installation of warning signs and deployment of traffic officers during construction • Community impact management during the building phase The process adheres to regulations under the Prime Minister’s Office concerning public participation, and the guidelines set out by the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning (ONEP). Previous stages of public engagement included an initial presentation of the project on 19 November 2024 and small group discussions on 11 February 2025. Across all meetings, more than 310 people have participated in shaping the future of Surat Thani Airport. The project reflects the government’s intention to position Surat Thani as a key regional air transport hub, providing modern infrastructure to support both economic development and growing tourism. Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-06-08

Rampaging Truck Tries to Ram Cyber Cop After Refusal to Give Way Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a dramatic road rage incident that could have ended in tragedy, a police officer from The Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau narrowly escaped a collision after a furious truck driver attempted to ram his vehicle along a busy highway. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362992-rampaging-truck-tries-to-ram-cyber-cop-after-refusal-to-give-way/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a dramatic road rage incident that could have ended in tragedy, a police officer from The Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau narrowly escaped a collision after a furious truck driver attempted to ram his vehicle along a busy highway. Pol Sub-Lt Supot Kumpee, 55, from the Cyber Crime Division 3, filed a complaint at Mueang Udon Thani Police Station after he was aggressively pursued by a speeding lorry on 5 June. The incident occurred around 12:40 while Supot was travelling from Khon Kaen to Udon Thani to carry out official duties. The altercation reportedly began on Mittraphap Road in the Non Sung Subdistrict, where Supot was driving a government-issued four-door pickup. As traffic was heavy, Supot stated he blocked a large truck that was attempting to overtake, fearing there was not enough room and the truck’s trailer would hit his vehicle and potentially cause a wider collision. The truck driver, enraged by the refusal to give way, then began tailgating Supot at high speed, drawing dangerously close to his rear bumper. As the pursuit reached Ban Chan Intersection, Supot managed to slip through just as the traffic light turned green. He veered left into a side lane, forcing the truck to stop temporarily. But the chase didn’t end there. The lorry resumed its pursuit, following Supot, after he returned to his original route, to the Nong Toom-Nong Yai intersection en route to Nong Bua Lamphu Province. Only after Supot turned off into a residential area in Ban Nong Yai did the truck abandon the chase. Security camera footage from Ban Chan confirms the close pursuit. Investigators have identified the truck as bearing registration number 70-9822 Khon Kaen and belonging to a logistics company based in Ban Pet Subdistrict, Khon Kaen Province. Police are now attempting to contact the company to locate the driver for questioning. If intent to cause harm is established, legal action will follow. Supot, recounting the ordeal, said, “I didn’t allow him to overtake because I feared a collision, not just with me, but potentially with other road users. When he started tailgating and swerving aggressively, I knew I was in danger. I didn’t dare stop and reveal that I was a police officer, as I feared he would ram me on the spot.” “Even as a police officer, I was terrified. My blood pressure went up. He was driving as if he meant to crush me. I’m pressing charges and will see this through.” Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-08 ScreenRecording_06-07-2025 06-28-29_1.mp4

Electric Bicycle Charging Sparks Condo Blaze in Pattaya – Fire Alarm Does Not Sound Pictures courtesy of Khaosod. Panic gripped residents of a Pattaya condominium early morning on 7 June, after a fire broke out due to an exploding electric bicycle battery, forcing occupants to flee. The building’s fire alarm failed to activate during the initial outbreak. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362959-electric-bicycle-charging-sparks-condo-blaze-in-pattaya-–-fire-alarm-does-not-sound/

Chonburi Karaoke Bar Raided for Underage Prostitution Picture courtesy of Khaosod Thai authorities have raided a karaoke bar in Chonburi, finding minors exploited for sexual services amidst customer entertainment. Despite clear evidence, the owner remains defiant. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1362950-chonburi-karaoke-bar-raided-for-underage-prostitution/

No Border Closure at Ban Laem and Ban Phak Kad Checkpoints, Confirms Marine Task Force Commander Picture courtesy of Daily News The Commander of the Royal Thai Marine Special Task Force in Chanthaburi has confirmed that there is no permanent closure of the Ban Laem and Ban Phak Kad border checkpoints, amid public concern sparked by a widely circulated urgent directive. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362967-royal-thai-navy-task-force-halts-thai-cambodian-tourist-crossings-at-chanthaburi-checkpoint/#findComment-19854911

to continue: Thailand Live Sunday 8 June 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1362981-thailand-live-sunday-8-june-2025/

UPDATE No Border Closure at Ban Laem and Ban Phak Kad Checkpoints, Confirms Marine Task Force Commander Picture courtesy of Daily News The Commander of the Royal Thai Marine Special Task Force in Chanthaburi has confirmed that there is no permanent closure of the Ban Laem and Ban Phak Kad border checkpoints, amid public concern sparked by a widely circulated urgent directive. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362967-royal-thai-navy-task-force-halts-thai-cambodian-tourist-crossings-at-chanthaburi-checkpoint/#findComment-19854911

UPDATE No Border Closure at Ban Laem and Ban Phak Kad Checkpoints, Confirms Marine Task Force Commander Picture courtesy of Daily News The Commander of the Royal Thai Marine Special Task Force in Chanthaburi has confirmed that there is no permanent closure of the Ban Laem and Ban Phak Kad border checkpoints, amid public concern sparked by a widely circulated urgent directive. The directive, which appeared to suspend cross-border travel for Thai and Cambodian tourists with immediate effect, excluding Cambodian labourers and cross-border trade, had raised alarm among local businesses and residents in border districts. However, in response to growing confusion, Captain Nopparoj Siripariyapong, Commander of the Chanthaburi Marine Task Force, clarified the situation. He emphasised that the document was not an order to shut the checkpoints but rather a cautionary notice issued out of concern for tourists. “The notice was intended to warn tourists, especially those travelling from other provinces to visit casinos along the Chanthaburi border, who may not be aware of the current security situation,” he explained. “We feared they could face disruptions or unintended consequences if they ventured too far into border areas.” Captain Nopparoj further reassured the public that the movement of Cambodian workers and goods vehicles across the border continues as normal. “There is no closure of any permanent checkpoint,” he stressed. “It’s a precautionary message, not an enforcement order.” At present, no new directive has been issued to cancel or amend the initial announcement. Authorities confirmed that both the Ban Phak Kad and Ban Laem permanent checkpoints in Pong Nam Ron District, as well as temporary checkpoints in the nearby Soi Dao District, remain fully operational. Tourists, migrant workers and transport vehicles, both large and small, continue to pass through the border without restrictions. Adapted by Asean Now from Daily News 2025-06-07

Royal Thai Navy Task Force Halts Thai-Cambodian Tourist Crossings at Chanthaburi Checkpoint Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Royal Thai Navy’s Chanthaburi Special Marine Task Force has issued an urgent directive temporarily suspending tourist cross-border travel, at the permanent border crossing.between, Ban Laem and Ban Phakkard. The measure comes amid rising security concerns linked to perceived threats from Cambodia. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362967-royal-thai-navy-task-force-halts-thai-cambodian-tourist-crossings-at-chanthaburi-checkpoint/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Royal Thai Navy’s Chanthaburi Special Marine Task Force has issued an urgent directive temporarily suspending tourist cross-border travel, at the permanent border crossings at Ban Laem and Ban Phakkard. The measure comes amid rising security concerns linked to perceived threats from Cambodia. Signed by Captain Nopparoj Siripriyaphong, commander of the Chanthaburi Marine Task Force, the official document was addressed to the chief of the Chanthaburi Immigration Bureau. It outlines a temporary halt on cross-border tourism activities, citing the implementation of martial law in selected districts of Chanthaburi, namely Khlung, Pong Nam Ron, and Soi Dao. According to Section 5 of the 2003 Martial Law Act, military authorities are granted overriding power over civilian agencies in areas concerning national security, suppression of unrest, or maintenance of public order. All civil agencies are required to comply with military directives under this provision. The ban affects both Thai tourists exiting the country and Cambodian tourists entering, via the designated crossings. However, Cambodian migrant workers legally employed in Thailand are exempt, and cross-border trade activities will continue as normal. Authorities say the decision was taken due to current tensions, which pose a potential threat to life and property along the border. The measure is effective from 7 June 2025 until further notice. Civil servants across all ministries and departments have been instructed to continue their duties in accordance with existing governmental regulations, while immigration officers are to enforce the temporary restriction strictly. The situation remains under review, with further announcements to be made as circumstances develop. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-07

Electric Bicycle Charging Sparks Condo Blaze in Pattaya – Fire Alarm Does Not Sound Pictures courtesy of Khaosod. Panic gripped residents of a Pattaya condominium early morning on 7 June, after a fire broke out due to an exploding electric bicycle battery, forcing occupants to flee. The building’s fire alarm failed to activate during the initial outbreak. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362959-electric-bicycle-charging-sparks-condo-blaze-in-pattaya-–-fire-alarm-does-not-sound/

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod. Panic gripped residents of a Pattaya condominium early morning on 7 June, after a fire broke out due to an exploding electric bicycle battery, forcing occupants to flee. The building’s fire alarm failed to activate during the initial outbreak. The incident occurred at a condominium located in Soi Thappraya 15, Pattaya, Chonburi province. Emergency services, including Pattaya City Fire Department, Sawang Boriboon Rescue Unit and Pattaya Police, rushed to the scene following a distress call from the city’s Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Radio Centre. On arrival, firefighters found flames in a section of Building B, with thick smoke billowing from the structure. Dozens of frightened residents were seen fleeing the building as authorities worked quickly to evacuate them to safety. The blaze was traced to Room 210 on the second floor, where fire crews battled the flames for approximately 30 minutes before bringing the situation under control. Although the fire was eventually extinguished, smoke continued to hang heavily in the air. Initial investigations revealed the fire had been triggered by an electric bicycle battery charging at the rear balcony of the room. The building’s fire alarm system did not activate until after the fire service had entered the building. The unit’s occupant, Mr. Dandrieu Thierry 57, a French national, and his Thai wife, reported being jolted awake by an explosion. Thierry explained that he had been charging the electric bike battery on the balcony when the first explosion occurred. He attempted to smother the small fire with a damp cloth, but the battery exploded again moments later, igniting a rapidly spreading blaze. Despite his efforts, he was unable to contain the flames and immediately contacted condo security and emergency services. Police Lieutenant Sakayapat Chaidet of Pattaya Police Station confirmed that the incident is being treated as a likely case of electrical problem from the battery unit. The room suffered extensive smoke damage and from effects of heat. Forensic officers from Chonburi’s Region 2 division have been called in to conduct a full investigation. No injuries have been reported at this time, but the incident has raised serious concerns about fire safety standards and the growing risks associated with lithium battery use in residential buildings. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-07