Georgealbert

Picture from responders. The Governor of Loei Province, Mr. Chaipoj Jaroonpong, received a report from the Na Haeo District Office regarding a fire that occurred in the early hours of September 5. The fire, which broke out at 00:30 and destroyed a newly constructed wooden temple building, that was still under going final construction in Na Haeo District. The fire occurred at Wat Phu Krong Kai Hoy Thammararam, a temple located in Lae Ko Hok sub-district, Na Haeo District, Loei Province. The temple is under the supervision of Phra Khru Banphot Thammakun, the Deputy District Monk Leader and Abbot of the temple. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported. However, the newly built wooden building, which was in the final stages of construction, was completely destroyed by the fire, just leaving a pile of burnt debris left on the concrete base. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by local authorities. The Na Haeo District Office and local administrative organisations have already begun assessing the damage. and estimated cost is approximately 10 million baht. This incident has drawn concern from local residents, as the new building was a significant project for the community and efforts are underway to provide assistance to the temple, as the authorities determine the next steps. -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Sorry, yes a typo error, I have since corrected. Thanks.

The reported description of an explosion, was what witnesses described. I believe there was initial LPG/air mix explosion, caused by a leak from the somewhere in the LPG cooking system. That leaking LPG mixed with air, reached the flammable range, and found an ignition source, probably the cooking flame and there was a small bang and fire ball. The fire then continued to burn, fuelled by both the leaking LPG and combustible fittings. There was no BLEVE, as the damage was too limited, and the CCTv courtesy of One News confirms that. RPReplay_Final1725575677.mp4

Fire at Recycling Factory Subsides but Thick Smoke Continues to Threaten Local Residents Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The fire at a recycling factory in Bang Ya Phraek, Samut Sakhon, that started late on the night of September 5, has begun to subside. However, thick black smoke continues to billow into the air, causing nearby residents to evacuate, unable to continue living in the affected area. Complaints had previously been made about illegal waste discharge and foul odours from the facility. As of 09:00, September 6, firefighters had successfully contained the blaze to a limited area, using backhoes to remove piles of waste from the top of the stack and spraying water to fully extinguish the fire below. Despite the reduced flames, this method has caused a resurgence of dense black smoke, raising concerns among locals that the fire might flare up again. Although there are no longer visible flames as there were during the night, the black smoke and pungent odor have spread throughout the surrounding area. Local health officials, including staff from the Tambon Bang Ya Phraek Health Promotion Hospital and public health volunteers, were forced to evacuate vulnerable residents such as bedridden patients and individuals with respiratory conditions to the Bang Ya Phraek Municipal Office for temporary shelter. Those residents in better health have been advised to temporarily relocate to safe areas outside the reach of the smoke until public health authorities can assess the situation and declare it safe to return home. Meanwhile, residents of the nearby Khlong Chon community, located directly behind the factory, have gathered in fear, unable to leave for work due to worries that the fire might intensify and spread to their homes. The factory is separated from the community only by a narrow irrigation canal and fence. Mr. Nakorn, a community representative, revealed that complaints had been lodged on several occasions regarding the factory's illegal waste disposal and offensive odors. Despite repeated calls for government agencies to intervene, little action was taken. Around 4 to 5 months ago, the factory imported large quantities of old rubber for oil production, further escalating concerns by building a large oil storage tank near the community. -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

High-Speed Pickup Truck Crash in Phuket Leaves Two Dead A high-speed accident occurred in the early hours of September 6, involving Isuzu D-Max pickup truck, when the driver lost control, crashing into a traffic sign on the central road divider before slamming into a sugar palm tree. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1337464-high-speed-pickup-truck-crash-in-phuket-leaves-two-dead/

Pictures from responders. A high-speed accident occurred in the early hours of September 6, involving a white Isuzu D-Max pickup truck. The driver lost control, crashing into a traffic sign on the central road divider before slamming into a sugar palm tree. The impact left the truck severely damaged and resulted in serious injuries for three young passengers. Emergency services quickly transported the victims to a nearby hospital, while investigators noted that the vehicle’s speedometer was stuck at 150 km/h, indicating the high speed at the time of the crash. The crash took place at approximately 03:15 near the Sri Suntorn Municipality on Thepkasattri Road in the Thalang District. Police Lieutenant Thanyaphisit Muangchan, of the Thalang Police Station, received the initial report and immediately dispatched rescue teams from Sri Suntorn Municipality and Kusoldharm Foundation. Ambulances from Thalang Hospital were also sent to the scene. Upon arriving at the scene, authorities found the severely damaged pickup truck, bearing a license plate from Phuket. The truck had crashed into a road sign and then hit a sugar palm tree, splitting the vehicle’s cabin from its bed. The wreckage was extensive due to the force of the crash. Three passengers were found injured inside the vehicle, and were later identified as 19-year-old Nattawut (surname withheld), who was driving, along with 19-year-old Thanawat and 17-year-old Natthapong (surnames withheld), who were passengers in the truck. All three sustained serious injuries with two later recorded as dead by the hospital. With the speedometer needle stuck at 150 km/h, suggesting that the truck had been traveling at a dangerously high speed prior and the wet road conditions, following a rainstorm earlier that night, contributed to the driver’s inability to control the vehicle. Eyewitnesses also recounted that the pickup truck had been traveling at high speed when it suddenly veered onto the central road divider and crashing. Police have recorded the incident and are awaiting the recovery of the injured man to obtain further statements. Meanwhile, the authorities are in the process of conducting a full investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash. -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Concrete Falls From Hotel Under Construction, Nakhon Phanom, Leaves Two Injured A large chunk of concrete of nearly one cubic metre fell from a high-rise hotel under construction and crashed onto the adjacent Nakhon Phanom Department of Highways office. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1337449-concrete-falls-from-hotel-under-construction-nakhon-phanom-leaves-two-injured/

Picture from responders of the damaged building. An accident occurred, on September 5, at a construction site in Nakhon Phanom, where a large chunk of concrete of nearly one cubic metre and weighing over 2 tonnes, fell from a high-rise hotel under construction and crashed onto the adjacent Nakhon Phanom Department of Highways office. The incident, which resulted in serious damage to the office building and left two workers injured, has raised significant concerns about safety standards at the construction site. The accident took place on the morning of September 5, during ongoing work on the construction of a 10-story hotel located on the banks of the Mekong River. The construction site is adjacent to the Nakhon Phanom Department of Highways office, and workers there were directly affected by the falling concrete. Two male employees of the department, who were inside the building at the time, were struck by the falling debris. They were immediately rushed to Nakhon Phanom Hospital for treatment. Fortunately, both men are expected to recover, and no fatalities were reported. According to preliminary reports, the cause of the falling concrete remains unclear. The project, which involves the construction of a high-profile hotel, will be the subject of scrutiny after the accident. Investigators are now working to determine whether the contractor followed proper safety protocols and construction standards. Local authorities and officials from the Nakhon Phanom Department of Highways quickly assessed the damage and communicated with the hotel’s construction contractor. In response to the incident, they are demanding a full investigation into the incident. Evidence is being collected to file charges against the contractor for negligence leading to injury, and authorities are pushing for compensation to cover the damage to the office building and medical costs. Safety concerns have intensified following this incident, with officials questioning whether the contractor adhered to required safety standards. There are fears that the construction site may pose further risks to workers, nearby offices, and residents in the vicinity. Officials from the Department of Highways have also called on relevant government agencies to inspect the site thoroughly, enforce stricter safety regulations, and implement preventative measures to avoid future accidents. -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Fishing Boat Capsizes on Mekong River, Chiang Rai, 3 Survive, 2 Missing A fishing boat capsized in the Mekong River, leaving three survivors and two individuals still missing. The incident occurred amidst swirling waters and strong currents, making search and rescue efforts extremely challenging. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1337448-fishing-boat-capsizes-on-mekong-river-chiang-rai-3-survive-2-missing/

Picture of rescuers searching on the river. A fishing boat capsized in the Mekong River, leaving three survivors and two individuals still missing. The incident occurred amidst swirling waters and strong currents, making search and rescue efforts extremely challenging. At around 05:00, September 5, Mr. Udom Pokpongborakul, the district chief of Chiang Khong, received an urgent report from the village headman of Wiang subdistrict that a group of five local Thai fishermen had set out on a boat from Don Mahawan village, Wiang Subdistrict, Chiang Khong District, Chiang Rai Province. Their destination was a popular fishing spot on the Mekong River. The boat capsized near the sand pumping station on the Lao side of the river, opposite the Naga Shrine, an area known for its treacherous waters. The exact location of the accident is near the border between Ban Pak Ing, Sri Don Chai Subdistrict, Chiang Khong District, and Ban Cham Pong, Lai Ngao Subdistrict, Wiang Kaen District, Chiang Rai. Three survivors were rescued, Mr. Thanawat (29), Mr. Boonrat (36), and Mr. Samrit (29), who was taken to Chiang Khong Hospital for a medical check-up. All three survivors are residents of Wiang Subdistrict, Chiang Khong. However, two men remain missing: Mr. Natthawat (29), a fellow resident of Wiang Subdistrict, and Mr. Assanai (42), from Satharn Subdistrict, Chiang Khong. Immediately after the incident, Mr. Udom coordinated with the Mekong River Security Unit (NRU) and local rescue teams to launch a search operation. The site of the accident is known for its dangerous whirlpools and deep waters, significantly complicating the rescue mission. In a statement, Mr. Udom explained that he had already briefed the provincial governor on the situation. He also reached out to the police and water security teams stationed in Wiang Kaen District for additional support in locating the missing individuals. Further assistance from the Siam Ruamjai Foundation’s water rescue team, and boats being dispatched from Chiang Rai city to assist in the search. Authorities plan to interview the survivors to determine the exact cause of the boat’s capsize and understand how the incident unfolded. The rescue efforts are ongoing, with hopes fading of locating the missing fishermen in the difficult conditions. -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Responders video of the fire. My Movie.mp4

Fire Rages at Samut Sakhon Recycling & Plastic Pellet Factory Firefighters have been battling a massive blaze at a recycling and plastic pellet factory in Samut Sakhon. Authorities initiated emergency evacuations for residents living behind the factory as flames encroach on nearby homes. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1337446-fire-rages-at-samut-sakhon-recycling-plastic-pellet-factory/

Picture from responders. Firefighters have been battling a massive blaze at a recycling and plastic pellet factory of Sino-Thai Marine Products Co., covering 10 rai, in Samut Sakhon’s Bang Ya Phraek subdistrict, which was first reported late night on September 5, with the fire continuing to spread in early morning . Authorities have initiated emergency evacuations for residents living behind the factory as flames encroach on nearby homes. The fire was first reported around 23:40. in the large recycling storage unit with the flames quickly engulfing more than half of the premises,. Despite relentless efforts to contain the fire, it spread uncontrollably within the factory’s storage areas. The flames reached two critical sections of the facility. The second storage unit, which contains plastic pellets, has been severely affected, and is burning, while the third unit, further inside the factory, holds massive piles of tyres, which are also ablaze. As the fire shows no signs of diminishing, authorities are increasingly concerned about its proximity to the residential areas behind the factory. The heat and intensity of the flames, combined with the risk of further spread, have forced firefighters and emergency personnel to evacuate local residents to safer locations. Firefighters have continued to deploy additional fire trucks from neighbouring areas to support the efforts, but conditions remain challenging. Strong winds have made it difficult to control the blaze, and the nearby natural water sources have proven insufficient for the scale of the fire. Additionally, the factory’s materials, such as plastic and rubber, are highly flammable, further complicating the situation. Investigations into the cause of the fire will begin once the situation is under control, but the priority remains ensuring the safety of the local population and containing the blaze. -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Man Dead For Months in Skywalk Ceiling, Suspected Cable Theft Attempt A gruesome discovery was made when an unidentified man’s body was found in the ceiling of a skywalk connecting Sathorn and Narathiwat Roads. The man is believed to have died several months ago. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1337445-man-dead-for-months-in-skywalk-ceiling-suspected-cable-theft-attempt/

Video of the initial stages of the emergency response. RPReplay_Final1725532675.mp4

Pictures from responders. A gruesome discovery was made on the afternoon of September 5, when an unidentified man’s body was found in the ceiling of a skywalk connecting Sathorn and Narathiwat Roads, near Chong Nonsi Bridge. The man is believed to have died several months ago, with initial investigations suggesting he may have been electrocuted while attempting to steal electrical cables. At around 16:00, Police Lieutenant Colonel Chaisit Khampayajan, an investigator from Thung Maha Mek Police Station, was alerted to the presence of the decomposed body. He responded to the scene along with Police Colonel Phanom Chuathong, the station superintendent, a forensic team from Chulalongkorn Hospital, and volunteers from the Por Teck Tung Foundation. The body was discovered hidden in the space between the ceiling and the skywalk, approximately five metres above ground. The man, whose identity remains unknown, was found in a severely decomposed state. His skin had dried and clung to the bones, and he was wearing a red safety helmet, which had been modified to include a flashlight. He also wore a short-sleeved T-shirt, bloodstained shorts, and sneakers. Close to the body were a bag and several tools, including pliers and wrenches. One set of pliers was still clamped to a cable, indicating that the man may have been in the process of cutting it when the fatal accident occurred. Investigators found no identification documents on the body, but they estimate the time of death to have occurred at least four to five months ago. The exact cause of death has yet to be confirmed. The discovery came to light after electricians were called to investigate a malfunction in the electrical system on the skywalk. Upon entering the ceiling space, they came across the body and immediately contacted the authorities. Reports suggest that the area had experienced electrical issues for some time, leading investigators to suspect that the man had been attempting to steal electrical wiring when he was electrocuted. The body was transported to the forensic department at Chulalongkorn Hospital for a full autopsy, including efforts to determine the man's identity and the precise cause of death. Investigations are ongoing, and police are working to uncover more details surrounding the circumstances of this incident. Picture showing the difficult access to the body. -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Gas Explosion in Chiang Mai Restaurant: One Injured, Extensive Damage A gas explosion rocked a small restaurant in Chiang Mai resulting in a fire that mostly destroyed the establishment. One person sustained burn injuries in the incident. Full story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1337443-gas-explosion-in-chiang-mai-restaurant-one-injured-extensive-damage/

Pictures from responders. A gas explosion rocked a small restaurant in the Santitham area of Chiang Mai on the afternoon of September 5, resulting in a fire that mostly destroyed the establishment. One person sustained injuries in the incident and was promptly taken to a nearby hospital. The explosion occurred around 13:45 at the “made-to-order” restaurant located in Soi Ratchaphruek, Chang Phueak Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Mai District. According to initial reports, the fire started when a gas cylinder inside the restaurant ignited and exploded while food was being prepared. The resulting blaze quickly engulfed the entire building, and a nearby motorcycle was also damaged. Local administrative authorities, along with firefighting teams, rushed to the scene immediately after the explosion. Firefighters worked swiftly to contain the flames, successfully bringing the fire under control within 25 minutes. Despite their rapid response, the restaurant was severely damaged by the fire. One individual, who sustained burn injuries during the explosion, was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities have confirmed that the victim is in stable condition and receiving appropriate medical care. The extent of the damage is still being assessed, though early indications suggest significant losses for the restaurant owner. Officials from relevant agencies are currently conducting a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the explosion. -- 2024-09-06 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE Russian Tourist Found Dead at Karon Beach Likely Died by Suicide, Police Suspect Financial Troubles Authorities investigating the death of a Russian tourist at Karon Beach in Phuket are leaning toward suicide as the likely cause, rather than foul play. Full Story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1337200-russian-tourist-found-dead-near-karon-beach-in-mysterious-circumstances/?do=findComment&comment=19208748

UPDATE Russian Tourist Found Dead at Karon Beach Likely Died by Suicide, Police Suspect Financial Troubles Picture courtesy of Thai PBS Authorities investigating the death of a Russian tourist at Karon Beach in Phuket are leaning toward suicide as the likely cause, rather than foul play. The conclusion comes after statements from the victim’s wife revealed that he had been facing significant financial issues and had previously discussed suicide with her. On September 5, a team of investigators and forensic officers searched the room of the deceased Russian tourist, located near Karon Temple in Mueang Phuket District. The man was found dead two days ago along the beach, with wounds on his body that initially appeared to be caused by a sharp object, raising suspicions of possible foul play. The room where the tourist had been staying was rented by a fellow Russian friend, with whom the deceased and his wife had been temporarily staying. After a thorough examination, police reported that there were no signs of a struggle or any illegal substances found in the room, ruling out any immediate indications of violent conflict or crime. According to Colonel Khundech Na Nongkhai, the superintendent of Karon Police Station, both the friend who rented the room and the victim’s wife were brought in for questioning. The victim's wife confirmed that her husband had been struggling with financial difficulties, leading to increased stress and frequent arguments between them. Her testimony also revealed that he had previously suggested committing suicide on multiple occasions. Surveillance footage from the beachfront further supports the suicide theory. The footage showed the Russian tourist walking alone toward the beach where his body was discovered. The absence of any accompanying individuals strengthens the belief that his death was self-inflicted rather than the result of a crime. Preliminary autopsy results revealed that the man had died from severe blood loss, with deep cuts found on his left arm, particularly on the wrist area. These wounds, consistent with self-inflicted injuries, further indicate that suicide is the most likely cause of death. While the investigation continues, authorities are confident that the financial and emotional distress faced by the victim played a significant role in his tragic death. Investigators will continue to collect evidence and statements to finalise the case, but at this stage, the possibility of murder seems increasingly unlikely. -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Fire Breaks Out at Hotel in Bangkok, Ramkhamhaeng Soi 40: One Injured A fire broke out at a Hotel in the Huamark area of Bangkapi District. The fire, which occurred on the rooftop laundry room of the 8-story hotel and resulted in one person being injured. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1337381-fire-breaks-out-at-hotel-in-ramkhamhaeng-soi-40-one-injured/

Pictures from responders. A fire broke out at a Hotel, on September 5, located at 8/8 Ramkhamhaeng Soi 40, in the Huamark area of Bangkapi District, at approximately 11:40.The fire, which occurred on the rooftop laundry room of the 8-story hotel and one person, a Cambodian male, sustained a head injury in the incident. The fire started in the laundry room on the hotel’s rooftop, igniting piles of clothing, a table, and part of an extended roof structure. Firefighters from Huamark Fire and Rescue Station quickly arrived on the scene and managed to control the blaze in under an hour. This is a mid-range hotel on Ramkhamhaeng Road, is a busy area with both local and international visitors. The incident caused significant concern among guests, but the fire was confined to the rooftop laundry area and did not spread to the lower floors. Hotel staff quickly evacuated the building, ensuring the safety of all guests. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the cause of the fire, and inspections are underway to ensure the building’s safety. The hotel is expected to resume normal operations after the investigation is complete and any necessary repairs are made. -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

UPDATE 16-Year-Old Girl's Mysterious Death – Suspected Drug Overdose Picture from responders. In the ongoing investigation of a 16-year-old girl's mysterious death, authorities suspect a drug overdose may be the cause. The homeowner, a middle-aged man, is currently in custody for questioning, while the victim’s older sister has asserted that her sibling had no history of drug use. The girl, identified as May (alias), was found dead in a bedroom, which the homeowner claimed was used for live-streaming sales. Blood was discovered coming from her nose, and a glass of grape juice, allegedly given to her by the homeowner, was found nearby. The homeowner stated that he had hired her to live-stream product sales and denied any wrongdoing. The incident occurred in Samut Prakan Province. As the investigation progresses, police suspect that the girl's death may have been caused by a ketamine overdose. The homeowner, identified as Mr. Suchin, was taken into custody shortly after the incident. He has been charged with abducting a minor, while authorities continue to investigate possible links to prostitution. This morning, Mr. Suchin was escorted back to his home for further investigation. He appeared visibly tense and refused to comment. The victim's older sister, speaking by phone to reporters , revealed that her sister had been living at her home, not attending school or working. The last time she saw her sister was Saturday night when she slept at home. She learned of her sister's death through a call from their mother. She insisted that her sister had no pre-existing health conditions and no history of drug use. Neither she nor her sister knew the homeowner personally. The case remains under investigation as authorities work to uncover more details surrounding this incident. -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe

Barking Dogs Corner Escaped Female Crocodile in Nakhon Sawan A female crocodile was successfully captured, in Nakon Sawan after being cornered by barking dogs. The reptile had been evading capture for several days. Full Story : https://aseannow.com/topic/1337372-barking-dogs-corner-escaped-female-crocodile-in-nakhon-sawan/

Picture of the captured crocodile. A female crocodile was successfully captured, in Nakon Sawan on the morning of September 5, after being cornered by barking dogs. The reptile, which had been evading capture, crawled towards a village headman’s house where it was eventually subdued. The crocodile, measuring 2.45 metres in length, was later handed over to authorities, who returned it to Bueng Boraphet, a large wetland area in the province. The incident unfolded after local fishermen had reported sighting two large crocodiles in the Bang Prong Canal, which connects to Bueng Boraphet. The crocodiles, believed to be a mating pair, had been swimming in the area, sparking fear among locals who were concerned for their safety while fishing. The fishermen recorded a video of the crocodiles as proof before notifying the authorities to help capture them. On September 3, a male crocodile measuring 3.30 metre was captured in the canal, but the female remained at large. At around 03:00, on September 5, the village headman of Moo 5, Nakhon Sawan Ok Subdistrict, reported hearing unusual barking from dogs near his house. Upon investigating, he discovered the female crocodile emerging from the Bang Prong Canal and crawling towards his property. Acting quickly, the headman fashioned a rope snare and managed to capture the crocodile before contacting the Fisheries Department. The location of the headman’s home, which is adjacent to the canal, led authorities to believe this was the same female crocodile they had been pursuing. Interestingly, the day before, on September 4, the Fisheries Department had captured another female crocodile, measuring 2 metres, in the Bueng Boraphet area. Initially, they thought this crocodile might be the one they were searching for, but further investigation revealed it was not the same animal. All captured crocodiles have since been transferred to the Nakhon Sawan Freshwater Fisheries Research Center for rehabilitation. Once fully recovered, they will be released back into their natural habitat in Bueng Boraphet, a protected area known for its biodiversity and large population of wildlife, including crocodiles. -- 2024-09-05 Get the ASEAN NOW daily NEWSLETTER - Click HERE to subscribe