Georgealbert

Two students lost their lives while cooling off in an irrigation dam in Sattahip, Chonburi. The two were pulled under by a powerful whirlpool, disappearing before the eyes of their friends who frantically called for help, though rescuers arrived too late. At approximately 17:00 on October 26, Police Sub-Lieutenant Pornchai Lueapol of the Plutaluang Police Station was alerted to the incident at the Bang Phai Canal overflow dam in Moo 2, Plutaluang Subdistrict, Sattahip District. He immediately coordinated with the Sawang Rojanatham Sathan Sattahip Diving Team, Rayong’s Sawang Por Rescue Unit, and the Sawang Boriboon Foundation in Pattaya. Upon arrival, divers searched the area for nearly an hour before finding the bodies of the victims, identified as 13-year-old Kwan and 15-year-old Gun, at the bottom of the dam. Heartbroken family members were present, grieving the tragic loss of their loved ones. Friends of the victims recounted that the group had ridden motorcycles to the dam for a swim during the school break. While playing near the dam’s overflow, Kwan and Gun were swept into the current and pulled under by the whirlpool. The friends quickly called authorities for assistance, but unfortunately, the pair had already drowned by the time divers recovered their bodies. Police have documented the scene and plan to question the friends further to determine the exact circumstances. Both bodies have been sent for autopsy to confirm the cause of death. Picture and video from responders. -- 2024-10-27 RPReplay_Final1729938215.mp4

Hostage Standoff at Sattahip Condo Ends with Safe Rescue and Arrest Authorities from Na Chom Thian Police Station and more than 20 district officials converged on a condo on Ton Had Road, Na Chom Thian, Sattahip, Chonburi Province, following reports of a man barricading himself in a room with a firearm, holding his girlfriend hostage. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341814-hostage-standoff-at-sattahip-condo-ends-with-safe-rescue-and-arrest/

Authorities from Na Chom Thian Police Station and more than 20 district officials converged on a condo on Ton Had Road, Na Chom Thian, Sattahip, Chonburi Province, on October 26, following reports of a man barricading himself in a room with a firearm, holding his girlfriend hostage. The scene unfolded at a 7-story condo, specifically around room 402, where officers surrounded the area. Leading the operation was Police Colonel Watchanchai Sangrit, head of Na Chom Thian Police Station, who arrived on-site to personally oversee the crisis. The hostage, a woman, could be heard intermittently calling for help, while negotiators attempted to persuade the assailant to surrender. Despite these efforts, the standoff persisted as the man refused to cooperate. In an attempt to de-escalate the situation, authorities contacted the suspect’s sister, whom he respected, to assist with negotiations via video call. After two hours of tense discussions, the suspect showed no signs of yielding, reportedly due to his paranoia over the intense police presence. In a final move to secure the hostage, officers broke down the door and subdued the suspect on the bed without any further violence, successfully concluding the standoff. The suspect, identified as 36-year-old Chookiat Sae-Ngo, also known by his nickname “Keng Tung Kha,” was found with a quantity of narcotics hidden in a bedside drawer. His girlfriend, 32-year-old Sujitra Miwatana, was safely rescued, though visibly shaken and distressed by the ordeal. According to Ms. Sujitra, the couple had been dating for over a year. The conflict began earlier that morning around 06:00 when she discovered her boyfriend messaging another woman. Following a heated argument, Chookiat reportedly became violent and fled, only to return later in the day, prompting her to contact condo staff for assistance, fearing further assault. Authorities detained Chookiat at the Na Chom Thian Police Station, charging him with narcotics possession and use of methamphetamine. Further investigation revealed that Chookiat had previously been released on bail under strict supervision and wore an EM (electronic monitoring) bracelet, which he had removed before the incident. Additional legal actions are expected to follow. Picture from responders. -- 2024-10-27

Tragic Discovery of Infant’s Body at Rama VI Dam: Ayutthaya The body of a newborn baby girl was discovered at Rama VI Dam in Ayutthaya early morning, sparking a police investigation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341811-tragic-discovery-of-infant’s-body-at-rama-vi-dam-ayutthaya/

The body of a newborn baby girl was discovered at Rama VI Dam in Ayutthaya, early on the morning of October 26, sparking a police investigation. At approximately 07:00, police received a report from a local fisherman who found the infant floating near the dam’s water gate in the Pa Sak River. Authorities, including investigators from Tha Ruea Police Station, medical personnel from Tha Ruea Hospital, and Ayutthaya Rescue Association, responded to the scene. The infant was found with the umbilical cord still attached, and examinations suggest she had been deceased for around one day. Mr. Prasit Pongsap, 43, a rescue worker on the scene, explained that the fisherman noticed the infant’s body in a whirlpool behind the dam, where it eventually drifted into the water gate area. Rescuers carefully retrieved the body and alerted authorities to conduct further examination. Police officer Lt. Col. Thanawat Kampha stated that initial assessments estimate the infant was about 33 weeks gestational age, or at approximately eight months into the pregnancy. The cause of death remains unclear, and it is unknown if the baby was born prematurely and died naturally or if foul play was involved. The body will be sent for an autopsy at the Institute of Forensic Science in Pathum Thani to determine the exact cause of death. Police are also reviewing CCTV footage in the area, hoping to gather clues about the mother and circumstances leading to the tragic discovery. The investigation is ongoing. Picture of the scene from responders. -- 2024-10-27

Uthai Thani Named One of the World’s 100 Sustainable Tourism Destinations for 2024 Uthai Thani Mayor Panatda Thai-seth announced that the province has been recognised as one of the Top 100 Sustainable Tourism Destinations in the world for 2024. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341809-uthai-thani-named-one-of-the-world’s-100-sustainable-tourism-destinations-for-2024/

In a proud moment for Uthai Thani, Mayor Panatda Thai-seth announced that the province has been recognised as one of the Top 100 Sustainable Tourism Destinations in the world for 2024. The announcement highlights the region’s commitment to sustainable tourism through its unique story of the last remaining raft community in Thailand. On October 26, Mayor Panatda shared the news with a post on her personal Facebook page. She revealed that Uthai Thani has earned this prestigious title from the Top100 Green Destinations project under the name “Uthai Thani Old Town, Preserving our pride: the country's last raft house community“, The province successfully met the international sustainable tourism criteria after submitting the application in collaboration with the Uthai Thani municipality. The recognition has sparked joy among the local community, who gathered to celebrate this achievement. Mayor Panatda expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I officially announce that Uthai Thani is going international! ‘Uthai Thani Old Town’ has been declared one of the world’s 100 sustainable tourism destinations for 2024. From now on, Uthai Thani will not just be a destination for Thai tourists but will attract visitors from around the globe. Get ready to speak English, everyone! We will receive the award in Chile at the end of this year.” Uthai Thani, alongside its municipality, showcased the story of the last remaining raft community in Thailand as part of its application for the Top100 Green Destinations award. This recognition not only celebrates the province’s natural beauty and cultural heritage but also its efforts in promoting sustainable tourism practices. The community submission is here; https://www.greendestinations.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/Top-100-2024-GPS-Uthai-Thani-Old-Town-Preserving-our-pride_-the-countrys-last-raft-house-community.pdf File picture for reference only. -- 2024-10-27 K

Foreign National Arrested for Drug Trafficking in Patong, Phuket In a coordinated sting operation led by Pol. Col. Chalermchai Hoernsawat, Superintendent of Patong Police Station, and Deputy Superintendent Pol. Lt. Col. Narubodin Phangleesen, authorities arrested a Nigerian national on charges of drug trafficking. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341808-foreign-national-arrested-for-drug-trafficking-in-patong-phuket/

In a coordinated sting operation led by Pol. Col. Chalermchai Hoernsawat, Superintendent of Patong Police Station, and Deputy Superintendent Pol. Lt. Col. Narubodin Phangleesen, authorities arrested a Nigerian national on charges of drug trafficking. The arrest took place on October 25, around 17.30, outside a hotel on Sirirat Road in Patong. The operation, directed by Pol. Lt. Col. Suchat Chumphusang of the Patong Police Investigation Unit, resulted in the seizure of 0.88 grams of cocaine. Officers also confiscated evidence including three Thai 1,000-baht banknotes and one 500-baht note, totaling 3,500 baht, used in the sting operation. Additional seized items included a blue Vivo mobile phone and a black-green Yamaha Fazio motorcycle. The Nigerian suspect is being charged with “selling a category 2 narcotic (cocaine).” Following the arrest, he was transferred to the Patong Police Station for further investigation and legal proceedings. Authorities have not released additional details pending further inquiry. This arrest highlights Phuket’s ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking within its popular tourist areas. Local law enforcement has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring safety for residents and visitors alike. Pictures courtesy of the police. -- 2024-10-27

Minibus Crash in Kamphaeng Phet Leaves Four Dead, Three Injured A passenger minibus with the registration number from Bangkok, lost control and veered off the road, colliding with a tree along Highway 1 near Km. 483+550, between Nakhon Chum and Wang Chao, in Village 3, Ban Khlong Mueang, Kosamphi Sub-district, Kamphaeng Phet Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341807-minibus-crash-in-kamphaeng-phet-leaves-four-dead-three-injured/

The incident occurred on October 26, at approximately 14:30, when a passenger minibus with the registration number from Bangkok, lost control and veered off the road, colliding with a tree along Highway 1 near Km. 483+550, between Nakhon Chum and Wang Chao, in Village 3, Ban Khlong Mueang, Kosamphi Sub-district, Kosamphi Nakhon District, Kamphaeng Phet Province. The accident took place on a straight, two lane asphalt road, which is in good condition with no potholes, and the road was dry, with no rain. The impact resulted in the tragic loss of four lives and left three others injured. Rescuers had to cut many of the casualties from the wreckage, with the dead driver being the most severely trapped victim. The four victims that died were; • Ms. Punyawi Sawanayapanich, 39, died at the scene. • Ms. Benjaporn Saengthongsakaw, 36, passed away at the hospital. • Ms. Patcharaporn Bamrungpanich, 33, passed away at the hospital. • Mr. Sarusit Limsoontorn, 47, the driver, passed away at the hospital. Three female passengers were admitted to Kamphaeng Phet Hospital for treatment and were in a serious condition. Police noted that the minibus held compulsory insurance with Viriyah Insurance Public Company Limited, effective from November 27, 2023, to November 27, 2024, as well as voluntary insurance with Sahamongkol Insurance Public Company Limited, effective from February 12, 2024, to February 12, 2025, so it is hoped that medical and funeral costs may be paid through the insurance. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the incident. Picture from responders. -- 2024-10-27

AirAsia CEO Tony Fernandes Forced to Fly Thai Airways After Failing to Book AirAsia Ticket AirAsia’s top executive, Tony Fernandes, recently found himself in a unique situation, unable to secure a seat on his own airline, he had to book a flight with Thai Airways, sparking widespread online humour and speculation. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341806-airasia-ceo-tony-fernandes-forced-to-fly-thai-airways-after-failing-to-book-airasia-ticket/

AirAsia’s top executive, Tony Fernandes, recently found himself in a unique situation, unable to secure a seat on his own airline, he had to book a flight with Thai Airways, sparking widespread online humour and speculation. On October 23, Fernandes, CEO of Capital A, the parent company of AirAsia, shared the amusing travel mishap on Instagram, drawing attention and laughter from followers worldwide. The post, which quickly went viral, featured Fernandes with a wide grin in a window seat on Thai Airways, en route to Beijing, China. In his signature humorous style, Fernandes captioned the photo, “Still on the go! I think I travel more than the flight crew. Flying to Beijing with @thaiairways because AirAsia is sold out once again.” This isn’t the first time Fernandes has found himself on a competitor’s flight due to AirAsia’s popularity. Last year, he ended up flying Singapore Airlines for similar reasons. Fernandes’ post fueled a flurry of lighthearted theories among fans, with one commenter playfully speculating, “Is he reviewing his competition again?” Another teased, “Love this ‘research’ trip for improving AirAsia! But I wonder, how did the person next to you feel?” For many, the post showcases Fernandes’ down-to-earth personality and his willingness to embrace a good-natured joke, even at his own expense. Picture courtesy of Khaosod. -- 2024-10-27

Lao Man Severely Injured by Electric Shock While Closing Factory Door in Suksawat Area A worker received a severe electric shock injury outside a garment factory in Soi Suksawat 26, as he was closing the metal entrance gate. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341805-lao-man-severely-injured-by-electric-shock-while-closing-factory-door-in-suksawat-area/

The Buranak Radio Centre (Ratchaphruek Hospital) received an emergency call at approximately 07.40 on October 26, about a severe electric shock injury outside a garment factory in Soi Suksawat 26. Rescuers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation and the Ratchaphruek Civil Defense Volunteer Unit promptly arrived at the scene. Upon arrival, emergency responders found the injured man, identified as “Locha” , a 19-year-old from Laos. He was lying unconscious on his back outside the factory door, with heavy bleeding from his mouth and a weak pulse. Locha, who was dressed in a white short-sleeve T-shirt and jeans with no shoes, was immediately given first aid, including CPR, while additional emergency medical support from the Erawan System was called. Shortly thereafter, paramedics from Charoen Krung Hospital arrived and transported him to Bangpakok 1 Hospital for urgent medical care. According to Phuchana, 43, a bystander who attempted to assist, he initially noticed Locha near the door and assumed he had fainted when the door was partially ajar. As he tried to help, Phuchana also received a minor electric shock, which alerted him that Locha had also suffered an electric shock. A preliminary inspection revealed that the incident occurred at the metal entrance gate, which had exposed electrical wiring routed from above. The wiring, threaded through the doorway, connected to switches and plugs on the inner side of the gate. Investigators suspect that frequent use of the metal door over time wore down the aging wiring, leading to the unanticipated malfunction and the gate had become live. Picture from responders. -- 2024-10-27 K

Former Chinese Bank Deputy Manager Arrested for Document Forgery & 200 Million Bank Fraud Authorities in Chonburi have arrested Wang Luan Fa, a 49-year-old former deputy manager of a Chinese bank, who fled to Thailand after being accused of orchestrating a 200 million baht loan fraud scheme in China. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341804-former-chinese-bank-deputy-manager-arrested-for-document-forgery-200-million-bank-fraud/

Authorities in Chonburi have arrested Wang Luan Fa, a 49-year-old former deputy manager of a Chinese bank, who fled to Thailand after being accused of orchestrating a 200 million baht loan fraud scheme in China. The Immigration Bureau, led by Pol. Col. Napaspong Khositsuriyamanee, Chonburi Immigration Police Chief, detained Wang at a hotel in Pattaya following a tip-off from the Chinese Embassy. Wang is wanted in Hebei, China, for fraud and document forgery. As a former deputy bank manager, he allegedly conspired with others to forge documents and embezzle 45 million yuan (approximately 225 million baht) in loan funds. After the scheme was uncovered, he fled to Thailand, reportedly crossing the Cambodian border and residing in Chonburi for around two months. Upon arrest, officers recovered 170,000 baht in cash from Wang’s hotel room. He admitted to entering Thailand illegally to escape financial ruin, claiming he intended to use his share of the stolen funds to clear personal debts. Wang has been transferred to Nong Prue Police Station for further investigation and extradition proceedings. Pictures courtesy of the police. -- 2024-10-27

Car Crashes Through Checkpoint, Engages Police in Gunfire, Ends in Arrest for Drugs A police chase unfolded in Nakhon Pathom province, culminating in the arrest of three individuals after their vehicle crashed into a tree. The incident began at a police checkpoint outside the Lotus shopping center in Bang Len, where officers noticed a suspicious Isuzu MU-X attempting to evade the inspection Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341803-car-crashes-through-checkpoint-engages-police-in-gunfire-ends-in-arrest-for-drugs/

In the early hours of October 26, a police chase unfolded in Nakhon Pathom province, culminating in the arrest of three individuals after their vehicle crashed into a tree. The incident began at a police checkpoint outside the Lotus shopping center in Bang Len, where officers noticed a suspicious Isuzu MU-X attempting to evade the inspection. When the police signaled for the vehicle to stop, the driver accelerated, breaking through the checkpoint and heading towards Khamphaeng Saen district. Officers pursued the car, which soon lost control and drove onto the shoulder of the road, resulting in a flat tyre on the front left. During the escape, the occupants of the vehicle fired several shots at pursuing police, with one bullet striking the windshield of a nearby Toyota van. Despite their attempts to flee, the car eventually crashed into a tree in the Sra Phang Lan sub-district of U Thong, Suphan Buri province. Upon the vehicle’s stop, the three passengers attempted to escape in different directions but were ultimately apprehended. The suspects were identified as Niman, Pornchai, and Jakrawut, who were found hiding in the nearby bushes and a drainage ditch. A search of the vehicle revealed a 9mm handgun with a single bullet in the chamber, as well as a 9mm bullet and a magazine containing 14 rounds in the back seat. In addition, authorities discovered a substantial quantity of illicit drugs: 2,000 methamphetamine pills and 6.3 grams of crystal methamphetamine, concealed within the engine compartment. The three suspects were taken into custody and brought before Deputy Police Inspector Uthit Laoha of the Bang Len Police Station for processing. Despite the evidence against them, all three denied any wrongdoing, claiming they were merely on their way home to Thamaka district in Kanchanaburi when they encountered the checkpoint and insisted they were unaware of the drugs and weapons found in the vehicle. As investigations continue, police are keen to determine the origins of the seized drugs and firearms and to hold the suspects accountable for their actions. Picture from the scene. -- 2024-10-27

Oil Tanker Fire Breaks Out at Gas Station in Khon Kaen A fire broke out at a gas station in Non Sawang, Chiang Yuen District, Khon Kaen Province, involving an oil tanker, which was parked next to a storage tank and another road tanker. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341766-oil-tanker-fire-breaks-out-at-gas-station-in-khon-kaen/

Thailand raises retirement age to 65 for all sectors by Mitch Connor Image courtesy of Matichon Thailand’s Labour Ministry is set to extend the retirement age for both private and government sectors to 65 years, aligning it with countries like Singapore and Switzerland, announced Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341750-thailand-raises-retirement-age-to-65-for-all-sectors/

to continue: Thailand Live Sunday 27 October 2024 https://aseannow.com/topic/1341794-thailand-live-sunday-27-october-2024/

Oil Tanker Fire Breaks Out at Gas Station in Khon Kaen A fire broke out at a gas station in Non Sawang, Chiang Yuen District, Khon Kaen Province, involving an oil tanker, which was parked next to a storage tank and another road tanker. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341766-oil-tanker-fire-breaks-out-at-gas-station-in-khon-kaen/

A fire broke out at a gas station in Non Sawang, Chiang Yuen District, Khon Kaen Province, involving an oil tanker at approximately 21:50 on October 26. The fire originated in a road tanker which was parked next to a storage tank and another road tanker. Thanks to swift intervention by emergency responders, the fire was contained to the immediate area around the tanker and the truck itself. Responders used water curtains, from hose-lines to prevent it from spreading to the other tanks, fuel pumps or nearby buildings. Firefighters and emergency crews then worked quickly to manage the flames, using foam to initial control and the then extinguish the fire. One local resident escaping the fire, as she feared it would spread to her home, suffered burns to her feet, after running through the burning, spreading fuel. Local authorities continued to monitor the scene, ensuring the fire remained contained, throughout the night. Officials are also conducting an investigation to determine the cause of the blaze. Picture from emergency responders. -- 2024-10-26

Black Cobra Found Under Car’s Hood, Fearless Monk Captures It Barehanded A local resident was left in shock after discovering a massive black king cobra, over two metres long, hidding in their parked car. The incident, which took place near Tham Pha Pu Temple in Ban Nam Phu, Loei Province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1341741-black-cobra-found-under-car’s-hood-fearless-monk-captures-it-barehanded/