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Express Train Collides with Pickup Truck at Huamad Railway Crossing, Claiming 3 Lives The Special Express Train No. 40, traveling from Surat Thani to Bangkok, collided with a pickup truck at the Huamad railway crossing in Chumphon Province. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1338411-express-train-collides-with-pickup-truck-at-huamad-railway-crossing-claiming-3-lives/

Picture from responders. A collision occurred At 10.30 on September 17, when Special Express Train No. 40, traveling from Surat Thani to Bangkok, collided with a pickup truck at the Huamad railway crossing in Moo 5, Thung Luang Subdistrict, Lamae District, Chumphon Province. The collision resulted in the immediate deaths of three individuals at the scene. Emergency response teams were promptly dispatched to the site of the accident. The following teams were mobilised, an ALS (Advanced Life Support) team from Lamae Hospital and a rescue team from the Lamae Subdistrict Municipality. All 3 persons, one male and two females, in the pickup were pronounced dead at the scene. Responders checked there were no injuries on the train, which was allowed to continue with the journey after a delay. The exact details of the cause of the collision, if the warning signals were working, if this was a legal crossing and further information about the victims are still under investigation by the relevant authorities. -- 2024-09-17

DDPM Helicopter Transports Blood from Chiang Rai to Aid Injured Rescuers in Phichit The KA-32 of The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. (DDPM) successfully transported rare blood type from Chiang Rai to Phichit province. This mission was initiated to assist volunteer rescuers who suffered severe injuries while returning from a rescue operation during the recent flooding in Chiang Rai. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1338370-ddpm-helicopter-transports-blood-from-chiang-rai-to-aid-injured-rescuers-in-phichit/

Picture and video courtesy of DDPM In a operation on September 16, the KA-32 of The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. (DDPM) part of The Ministry of Interior successfully transported rare blood type from Chiang Rai to Phichit province. This mission was initiated to assist volunteer rescuers who suffered severe injuries while returning from a rescue operation during the recent flooding in Chiang Rai. The accident occurred as the volunteers were en route back after aiding victims of the flooding, resulting in three rescuers sustaining serious injuries that required immediate surgery. Thanks to the quick response and the efficient operation conducted by the DPD, the blood supply has been delivered to the hospital, ensuring the injured volunteers receive the necessary medical attention. The operation highlights the courage and dedication of the volunteers working tirelessly to help those affected by natural disasters. The DDPM continues to encourage the public to stay informed during such crises through their online resources. Original story of crash here. https://aseannow.com/topic/1338210-rescue-volunteers-involved-in-serious-crash-in-phichit-province/ -- 2024-09-17 RPReplay_Final1726478945.mp4

Man With Machete Kills Ex Brother-in-Law, Injures Ex Wife’s Parents in Domestic Dispute A violent domestic incident in Phra Saeng District, Surat Thani, has left one man dead and two others seriously injured, when a man armed with a machete, attacked his former wife’s family at their home. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1338369-man-with-machete-kills-ex-brother-in-law-injures-ex-wife’s-parents-in-domestic-dispute/

Picture of police investigation of the scene. A violent domestic incident in Phra Saeng District, Surat Thani, has left one man dead and two others seriously injured. On the night of September 15, Mr. Thanakorn, 32, armed with a machete, attacked his former wife’s family at their home, killing his ex brother-in-law and severely injuring his former in-laws. The deceased, Mr. Suthep, 31, a schoolteacher, suffered seven stab wounds and died at the scene. His parents, Mr. Suphon, 59, and Mrs. Jintana, 62, were also injured in the attack and have been hospitalised with serious wounds. Mr. Thanakorn’s former wife, Ms. Pornsiri, 32, sustained minor injuries while attempting to stop the attack. The couple had recently been in conflict over the custody of their child, leading to the attack. Authorities are now searching for Mr. Thanakorn, who fled the scene after the attack. An arrest warrant is expected to be issued later today. Witnesses reported hearing a loud argument before the attack occurred. Neighbor Mr. Sumet, 54, attempted to intervene but was unable to prevent the tragedy. Police are treating the case as a family dispute turned violent. -- 2024-09-17

Authorities Crack Down on Illegal Foreign Labour in Fishing Industry A coordinated operation involving over 50 officials from various agencies was launched to investigate illegal foreign labour in the fishing sector, targeting the area of Nong Na Khlue in Bang Lamung district. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1338367-authorities-crack-down-on-illegal-foreign-labour-in-fishing-industry/

Picture courtesy of SiamChon. A coordinated operation at 06:15 on September 16, involving over 50 officials from various agencies was launched to investigate illegal foreign labour in the fishing sector. The team, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Veerachai ThinKamuth, Chonburi Immigration Division, along with Deputy Superintendent of the same division, Lt. Col. Aingkwat Kreangsinkul, Chonburi fisheries chief Mr. Natthapong Wanpath, and Deputy Director of the Chonburi Maritime Enforcement Command, Na. Adm. Pinai Jinchai, targeted the area of Nong Na Khlue in Bang Lamung district. This operation was prompted by complaints from local fishermen regarding illegal foreign workers, specifically from Myanmar and Cambodia, who were allegedly encroaching on the livelihoods of Thai nationals. Officials swept through the area, inspecting fishing boats and processing points, where they found numerous undocumented foreign workers engaged in sorting seafood. During the extensive checks along the Na Khlue Long Bridge to Soi Sam Yaek Tham Da, authorities requested identification documents from the workers. Many presented their papers, but several were found lacking proper documentation. Additional inspections near Bang Lamung Canal revealed groups of foreign workers employed under various fishing operations, where employers provided documentation confirming their employment. Chonburi fisheries chief Natthapong Wanpath explained that the investigation aimed to verify whether these foreign workers were legally permitted to perform fishing activities, in light of reports suggesting they were monopolising local jobs. Lt. Col. Aingkwat Kreangsinkul emphasised the commitment of immigration officers to audit all identified foreign workers and ensure their documentation was in order. He stressed the importance of accurately reporting the residences of foreign workers to facilitate efficient tracking in case of emergencies. He noted the focus of the operation not only included illegal fishing practices but also addressed potential human trafficking issues. He warned that legal actions would be taken against any violations uncovered during their investigations. Additionally, he urged local fishermen, especially those operating small vessels, to remain aware of sea conditions during the monsoon season and reminded them to contact the Chonburi Maritime Enforcement Command at 1465 for assistance in any maritime emergencies. This comprehensive crackdown underscores the authorities’ ongoing effort to regulate the fishing industry and protect the livelihoods of local fishermen against illegal foreign labour. -- 2024-09-17

Missing Vessel and Four Passengers Feared Lost in Storm Near Koh Sukorn Authorities are still searching for a missing vessel, Porntavee, which disappeared in September 16, in a violent storm along with its captain and four passengers en route to Koh Sukorn, Trang Province. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1338366-missing-vessel-and-four-passengers-feared-lost-in-storm-near-koh-sukorn/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Authorities are still searching for a missing vessel, Porntavee, which disappeared in September 16, in a violent storm along with its captain and four passengers en route to Koh Sukorn, Trang Province. Despite a public appeal for help, there has been no sign of the boat or its occupants. The SOS Maritime group has issued alerts to seafarers in Trang and Satun Provinces, requesting their assistance in locating the 25-ton vessel, Porntavee. The boat, piloted by Supit Khaowdee, known locally as Bang Poo, was carrying three other passengers: Fak Khaowdee, Chant Songlong, and Mon Madlu, when it disappeared. The boat had departed from Palian Canal in Trang and was headed toward Koh Sukorn, also known as Pig Island. Mid-journey, the vessel was hit by a storm, and high winds caused it to vanish without a trace. It failed to dock at Koh Sukorn, prompting immediate concern. Upon receiving the distress call, local fishing boats, transport vessels, and officials from Koh Sukorn Subdistrict Administrative Organisation (SAO), along with marine police and rescue teams, launched a search operation. The search has covered the waters around Palian District, Trang, and Thung Wa District, Satun Province, but so far, no trace of the missing boat has been found. Authorities have urged all passing vessels, especially those traveling between Tha Kham and Koh Sukorn, to remain vigilant. Rescue operations are ongoing as officials hope for any signs of the lost vessel. Red dot showing last known location. -- 2024-09-17

Tornado Wreaks Havoc in Phatthalung, Damages Homes A sudden tornado struck the Phatthalung province on September 16, destroying some homes as officials scrambled to provide urgent aid. The extreme weather, which included both heavy winds and rain, devastated the area, particularly affecting the village of Ban Khuan Saeng in Tambon Khok Sai, Pa Bon District. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1338365-tornado-wreaks-havoc-in-phatthalung-damages- homes/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A sudden tornado struck the Phatthalung province on September 16, destroying some homes as officials scrambled to provide urgent aid. The extreme weather, which included both heavy winds and rain, devastated the area, particularly affecting the village of Ban Khuan Saeng in Tambon Khok Sai, Pa Bon District. According to reports, the severe storm, known locally as a "Lam Hua Duan" or sudden tornado, hit late in the afternoon. After the winds subsided, it was revealed that the roofs of more than 14 houses had been ripped off, with five homes completely destroyed. In the aftermath, local officials from the Khok Sai Subdistrict Administrative Organisation (SAO), as well as village leaders, immediately began surveying the damage and providing assistance to the affected residents. Khomjak Saengsiew, the village headman of Khok Sai, confirmed that 14 households had their roofs blown away, while five homes were left in ruins. In addition to the damage to homes, rubber plantations, fruit orchards, and salak gardens in the area were also badly affected. Authorities are still assessing the full extent of the damage and will submit their findings to district and provincial officials. Dechtep Khaothong, the mayor of Khok Sai SAO, stated that after receiving reports of the tornado, a team of municipal workers were quickly mobilised to help repair the partially damaged roofs. The goal is to ensure that affected families can at least have temporary shelter over night. As for the homes that were completely destroyed, repairs will begin on September 17, as some structures need to be rebuilt from scratch after the wood was blown away by the winds. Residents reported that the storm lasted only 20 minutes, but the intense wind and heavy rain caused significant destruction in that short time. -- 2024-09-17

UPDATE Broker Confesses to Spending Missing Millions After Pickup Truck Submersion Incident Picture courtesy of ThaiRath In a bizarre turn of events following the mysterious disappearance of 4.2 million baht after a truck plunged into a pond, the involved broker, Mr. Thongchai Wongsuwan, has confessed to having spent nearly all of the money, leaving just 500,000 baht. He expressed remorse, stating that karma caught up with him as he planned to confess, but a car accident prevented him from doing so. The incident occurred on the morning of September 14, when Mr. Thongchai, a car sales broker from Ban Rai District, lost control of his pickup truck, sending it into a pond near Wat Huai Khanang in Nong Chang District. He initially claimed that 4.2 million baht in cash was inside the vehicle and had sunk with the truck. Local rescue teams managed to recover 500,000 baht from the water, but suspicions arose when the truck owner, Ms. Sawitree Ruammaitri, demanded a full investigation and even requested the pond be drained to search for the remaining money. However, the pumping was halted after equipment failure on September 15. At 13:30 on September 16, Mr. Thongchai met with Ms. Sawitree at Nong Chang Police Station to settle the dispute. They negotiated the return of the 500,000 baht found at the scene with she also demanded that the full remaining amount be returned in one lump sum, rather than in instalments. Mr. Thongchai stated he has now already repaid 2.1 million baht and, after today’s payment of 500,000 baht, still owes 1.6 million baht. While Mr. Thongchai offered to repay in monthly instalments of 50,000 baht, the other party requested a single payment or valuable assets as compensation. During the negotiations, Mr. Thongchai admitted that he fabricated the story about the money sinking in the pond. He explained that he was shocked and panicked at the time but did not intend to deceive anyone. He confessed that he had spent nearly all of the 4.2 million baht from the car sale, leaving only 500,000 baht. His initial plan was to confess everything, but an accident occurred, almost costing him his life, before he could do so. The investigation continues as authorities look into the case further. -- 2024-09-16

Texas Chicken, in Thailand is operated by PTT Oil and Retail Business (PTTOR), is part of OR's lifestyle business, which also includes Café Amazon and Pearly Tea. There are 97 Texas Chicken branches throughout Thailand and all will shut at the end of the month.

Pattaya Police Raid Bar for Illegally Selling Laughing Gas Balloons In the early hours officers from the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (ATPD) collaborated with Pattaya City Police to raid the bar located in Soi Jomtien 11. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1338310-pattaya-police-raid-bar-for-illegally-selling-laughing-gas-balloons/

Picture courtesy of SiamChon. In the early hours of September 16, at 03:35, officers from the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (ATPD), led by Pol. Col. Patthanapong Sripinproh, Deputy Commander Pol. Lt. Col. Kiattikong Thongkham, and Pol. Lt. Col. Sitth Poolwong, collaborated with Pattaya City Police to raid the bar located in Soi Jomtien 11, Nong Prue, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi Province. The raid resulted in the seizure of two nitrous oxide gas tanks, three pre-filled gas balloons, and 60 unfilled balloons. Additionally, four illegal migrant workers and one person in charge of the bar were arrested. The raid was initiated after authorities received a tip that the bar was covertly selling nitrous oxide-filled balloons, commonly referred to as "laughing gas." After observing the bar’s activities, officers confirmed the illegal sale of the gas-filled balloons, a blatant violation of the law. The bar catered to both local and foreign patrons, and it was discovered that the bar employees were selling the balloons for 200 baht each. To avoid detection, the bar staff hid the gas tanks in a vacant locker across from the bar. When tourists placed orders, the foreign employees would cross the street to fill the balloons and deliver them to the customers, attempting to mislead authorities. However, police surveillance revealed the bar's evasion tactics, leading to the successful seizure of the illegal substances. The bar manager, along with the foreign workers who did not have work permits, was taken into custody. The authorities are now extending the investigation to issue an arrest warrant for the bar’s actual owner, who will face legal action. Under the Drug Act, the illegal sale of medical substances, such as nitrous oxide, without proper authorisation carries a penalty of up to five years in prison and a fine of up to 10,000 baht. -- 2024-09-16

An EV fire in a car park was the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s (BMA) theme for the full-scale emergency disaster drill for 2024, held on September 8.

Texas Chicken, the popular American fried chicken franchise, is saying goodbye to the Thai market after nine years. The news has left fans lamenting the loss of their favorite biscuit and fried chicken dishes. The chain's Thai Facebook page announced the closure, stating, “It’s time to say goodbye to Texas Chicken after 9 years of delicious memories! But don’t be sad, as we will part with smiles and cheer. Come and create our final memories together. Enjoy to the fullest before we close our chapter!” Texas Chicken will continue operations until September 30, 2024. Many regular customers have expressed their disappointment, particularly over the loss of the restaurant’s famed biscuits and fried chicken wraps. Some have pledged to visit more frequently in the remaining days to savour their favourites one last time. -- 2024-09-16

Two Teens Injured by Ping Pong Bomb Outside Convenience Store in Yala In the early hours of September 16, two teenagers were injured by a ping pong bomb explosion in front of a convenience store in the Sateng Subdistrict, Mueang District, Yala Province. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1338304-two-teens-injured-by-ping-pong-bomb-outside-convenience-store-in-yala/

Picture from responders. In the early hours of September 16, two teenagers were injured by a ping pong bomb explosion in front of a convenience store in the Sateng Subdistrict, Mueang District, Yala Province. The Yala Narenthorn Emergency Medical Centre alerted the Chao Mae Thapthim Rescue Radio Unit just after midnight, reporting the incident at the "Malay Bangkok" convenience store. Upon receiving the information, rescue teams immediately dispatched emergency vehicles to the scene. Two male victims, aged 14 and 15, were found injured upon arrival. The first victim, a 14-year-old male, had suffered a severe laceration to his left palm, with his left thumb having been blown off. The second victim a 15-year-old male, reported leg pains, which was a suspected broken leg and multiple scrapes across his body. Emergency responders administered first aid at the scene before transporting both individuals to Yala Central Hospital for further treatment. The incident is currently under investigation, with police reviewing CCTV to identify if the two were innocent victims or if the ping pong bomb was theirs. -- 2024-09-16

UPDATE 3.8 Million Baht Still Missing in Temple Pond, Water Pump Fails Again The search for 3.8 million baht that allegedly sank in a temple pond remains unsuccessful as complications continue to delay the operation. A faulty water pump and the inability to stop water flow into the pond have hindered efforts. The lady owed the money, who hails from Nakhon Sawan has requested the pond be drained to verify the presence of the missing funds. However, heavy rain forced them to halt their efforts and water continues to flow into the pond from a nearby canal, as the main valve cannot be closed. Adding to the problem, the pump first used ti drain the water had malfunctioned, leaving the pond still full and halting further search attempts. Ms. Sawitree, 42, who is owed the missing funds, explained that after the rain and pump failure, no further searches were conducted.. She expects the draining process to resume on September 16, with police from Nong Chang Police Station planning to question those involved as part of the ongoing investigation. -- 2024-09-16

UPDATE Brutal Murder of Myanmar Man: Body Dumped Alongside Motorway Police now believe that the body of is a young Myanmar man. He was found brutally murdered and abandoned in an overgrown area near the motorway in Chachoengsao. The victim, estimated to be between 30 and 35 years old, had been severely beaten, with a slashed throat and multiple stab wounds on his face. The body was found near kilometre marker 44 of the motorway heading towards Chonburi, in a secluded area overgrown with grass near a construction site. The victim was wearing a black and white t-shirt, gray pants, and blue flip-flops, with a gray waist bag containing four Myanmar banknotes. According to the medical examination, the man had a 20 cm long slash wound across his neck, stab wounds on both cheeks, a 4 cm cut on his right eyebrow, and a crushed skull. The man had been dead for at least three days, and no identification documents were found on him. The grisly discovery was made by Mr. Prachum Pengsuwan, a 77-year-old local resident, who stumbled upon the body while fishing in a nearby canal. "I smelled something foul and followed the scent until I found the body. From his appearance, it was clear he wasn’t from around here," Mr. Prachum said. Police believe the victim could have been a migrant worker, possibly from one of the nearby construction camps or factories. They are investigating whether the murder occurred at the scene or if the body had been dumped there after the killing. One theory is that the victim may have been involved in a dispute, which escalated to murder. Authorities are currently examining nearby CCTV footage and checking local workplaces for any missing persons to help solve the case. -- 2024-09-16

Two Men Survive Capsized Boat Ordeal For 4 Hours Two men were saved after their boat capsized during a fishing trip off the coast of Bang Lamung, Chonburi. The men, who had been stranded in the sea for more than four hours, survived by using empty water bottles to stay afloat. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1338294-two-men-survive-capsized-boat-ordeal-for-4-hours/

Picture from responders. Two men were saved after their boat capsized during a fishing trip off the coast of Bang Lamung, Chonburi. The men, who had been stranded in the sea for more than four hours, survived by using empty water bottles to stay afloat. The incident occurred near Koh Jun, Na Kluea, when rescue teams were alerted at 22:05 on September 15. Authorities, including Pattaya City’s marine rescue team and Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan rescue workers, quickly coordinated efforts to locate the missing men. The two survivors, identified as 35-year-old Jakrapan Sombat and 45-year-old Sumit (surname withheld), were found exhausted but alive. Both had been floating in the sea for hours after their 18-foot fiberglass boat was struck by a sudden storm while they were squid fishing. Jakrapan explained that they were caught off guard by strong winds and high waves, which caused their boat to capsize. With no warning, they were thrown into the sea, miles from shore. Jakrapan managed to retrieve water bottles from the boat’s storage compartment before the boat sank,, emptied them, and used them to help stay afloat as they were carried by the current. Despite the changing winds and drifting further from shore, the men’s luck turned when they spotted the marine rescue centre. They called out for help, and soon, their distress signals were noticed. Udomsak Wirasuk who was part of the rescue, saw the two men waving for help amidst the strong waves. He immediately steered his boat toward them and managed to bring them safely to shore. Both men, though weak, were given immediate first aid and did not require hospitalisation. Their boat remains underwater, with efforts underway to recover the wreckage. -- 2024-09-16

Minivan Collides with Pickup Truck at Chanthaburi Intersection: 20 Injured A crash occurred in Chanthaburi Province, involving a collision between a minivan and a pickup truck at a busy intersection. The crash left 20 people injured. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1338285-minivan-collides-with-pickup-truck-at-chanthaburi-intersection-20-injured/