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Picture courtesy of SiamChon. A 20-year-old Thai man was left injured after being assaulted by a group of men following a heated road incident involving his girlfriend and two other women in the Nong Prue area, just outside of Pattaya. The incident took place late at night along the Mabprachan Reservoir road, near Flowerland curve. According to reports, the victim suffered a head injury after being struck with a hard object, later confirmed by eyewitnesses to be a glass bottle and was promptly taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Miss Krittiya, the girlfriend of the injured man, recounted the events leading up to the attack. She stated that the couple had been riding home on a motorcycle after an evening out when they encountered two women exiting a side street without checking for traffic. This forced the couple to brake suddenly to avoid a collision. In the heat of the moment, Krittiya admitted to shouting at the pair with an expletive-laden remark, “Can’t you even say sorry, you [expletive]?” before riding off towards a nearby 7-Eleven store at the entrance of Soi Phonprapha Nimit 27. The situation escalated shortly after, when the two women followed them to the convenience store and confronted the couple. Despite Krittiya offering an apology in an attempt to defuse the situation, one of the women warned that her boyfriend would be arriving shortly to “settle the matter.” Moments later, a group of men believed to be the women’s boyfriend and his associates arrived at the scene. The victim was then attacked, with at least one of the assailants striking him on the head with a glass bottle. Krittiya told reporters that she and her boyfriend had never met the attackers before and had no prior conflict with them. She added that her family filed an official complaint with Nong Prue Police Station, seeking to pursue legal action against all involved. The police are currently reviewing CCTV footage from the area and interviewing witnesses as part of the investigation. Authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward to assist with the case. Adapted by Asean Now from SiamChon 2025-06-04

Russian National Arrested at Phuket Airport Over Alleged Cyber Fraud Picture courtesy of Phuket Express A 36-year-old Russian man was apprehended by immigration officers at Phuket International Airport, facing serious allegations of fraud and cybercrimes. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362586-russian-national-arrested-at-phuket-airport-over-alleged-cyber-fraud/

Picture courtesy of Phuket Express A 36-year-old Russian man was apprehended by immigration officers at Phuket International Airport, facing serious allegations of fraud and cybercrimes. According to a statement released by Phuket Immigration, the suspect was intercepted in the international arrivals terminal and taken into custody without incident. Authorities confirmed he was wanted in connection with multiple offences, including public fraud, cybercrime and breaches of the Electronic Transactions Act. An arrest for the suspect had previously been issued by a Surat Thani court. Investigators allege that the individual played a key role in supporting illicit online activities designed to deceive the public. These reportedly involved unauthorised access to electronic banking systems and manipulation of online platforms for fraudulent purposes, in violation of The Computer Crimes Act. “The individual is accused of enabling access to financial accounts without lawful authority or intent, actions that are considered serious offences under current cybercrime legislation,” an immigration official stated. Following his arrest, the suspect was promptly transferred from Phuket to Surat Thani City Police Station, where he remains in custody while the investigation continues. Officials have not disclosed the specific nature or scale of the fraudulent operations allegedly linked to the suspect. Further details regarding his case, including his identity and possible associates, have not yet been released by authorities. The arrest underscores Thailand’s ongoing efforts to clamp down on transnational cybercrime and electronic fraud, particularly those exploiting digital banking systems and online commerce. Adapted by Asean Now from Phuket Express 2025-06-04

British Woman Found Dead on Koh Phangan Beach After Late-Night Swim Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 54-year-old British tourist has been found dead on a beach on the Thai island of Koh Phangan, with authorities confirming that she likely drowned after going for a late-night swim while intoxicated. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362539-british-woman-found-dead-on-koh-phangan-beach-after-late-night-swim/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 54-year-old British tourist has been found dead on a beach on the Thai island of Koh Phangan, with authorities confirming that she likely drowned after going for a late-night swim while intoxicated. The body of Ms Alison, a UK national who had been staying on the island for about a month, was discovered early on the morning of Tuesday 3 June by a local man out for a morning walk on Chao Phao Beach, close to her rented bungalow. She was found wearing only an orange bra, with the matching underwear having washed ashore nearby. Police reported no signs on the body of violence or struggle. Lieutenant Colonel Apichat Chansamret, head of Koh Phangan Police Station, led the initial investigation, accompanied by a doctor from Koh Phangan Hospital. The scene was secured while a rescue unit from the Koh Phangan Kusonsraddha Foundation transported the body for autopsy. Medical examiners later confirmed that sand and seawater were found in the woman’s lungs, indicating drowning as the cause of death. Investigations revealed that Ms Alison had been staying at a bungalow near the beach since early May, with her check-out scheduled for 11 June. Staff at the accommodation told police she was a regular drinker. On the evening of 2 June, she had been seen consuming alcohol before heading to the beach to swim alone. A concerning incident had also occurred earlier that same day, when the woman reportedly fell and hit her head outside a local convenience store. Although bystanders offered assistance and helped her back to her accommodation, she refused medical treatment at the time. Police found her room undisturbed, with her passport and personal belongings intact. Officials have contacted the British Embassy in Bangkok to begin the process of notifying her next of kin. Authorities have ruled out foul play but will await final autopsy report before closing the case. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-03.

UPDATE Five Suspects Arrested in E-Cigarette Heist That Left Security Guard Dead Picture courtesy of Amarin. Five suspects involved in a daring heist that led to the death of a security guard have now been apprehended, while the alleged ringleader, known as “Bank,” remains on the run. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362418-security-guard-killed-as-gang-steals-e-cigarettes-from-khlong-toei-port/#findComment-19844007

UPDATE Five Suspects Arrested in E-Cigarette Heist That Left Security Guard Dead Picture courtesy of Amarin. Five suspects involved in a daring heist that led to the death of a security guard have now been apprehended, while the alleged ringleader, known as “Bank,” remains on the run. The incident occurred in the early hours of 31 May, when a group of armed men in a van stormed a warehouse under the Port Authority of Thailand, which was being used by the Customs Department to store seized e-cigarettes. The thieves cut into a shipping container and attempted to make off with the contraband. As they fled the scene, the gang reversed their vehicle into a security guard who had tried to intercept them, killing him instantly. Following a thorough investigation, arrest warrants were issued for six suspects. Police have since taken five of them into custody: Bird, Ek, King, Ji, and Lek. Four were initially arrested, with Lek captured later on 2 June and brought to Tha Ruea Police Station for questioning. The prime suspect, identified as Sithisak or “Bank,” allegedly orchestrated the entire operation and was behind the wheel of the van that struck the guard. He is now wanted for murder, in addition to charges of armed robbery causing death, night-time theft, unlawful entry, criminal damage and membership of a criminal gang. According to initial police statements, all five detained suspects have confessed to their roles and confirmed that Bank led the group. Although they denied any specific allocation of tasks, they admitted acting together, from breaking into the container to keeping watch during the operation. After the fatal collision, Bank, Ji, and Lek reportedly transported the stolen goods to a location linked to an individual named Jay. Bird and Ek claimed Bank managed the entire plan and that they were unaware of the full details or their potential share of the loot. Investigators suspect that the gang had inside information, as they appeared to know which container held the valuable goods and when the warehouse gates would be opened. This has prompted further questioning of Customs Department personnel, although police have stressed that no law enforcement officers are believed to be involved. One suspect, Bird, had reportedly performed casual work at the police station before, such as cleaning and running errands. However, police have categorically denied any links between this case and serving officers, including speculation surrounding a van seen at the crime scene that resembled a police vehicle. Criminal records reveal that Bank has a prior robbery case from October 2024 at Tha Kham Police Station. Ek has a 2015 drug offence, King has both weapons (2020) and drug (2022) charges, while the other suspects have no previous convictions. Despite the gravity of the crimes, officers reported on 3 June that the five suspects in custody appeared cheerful, chatting and singing songs in their holding cell overnight. Police officials, including senior commanders from the Metropolitan Police Bureau, visited the station that morning to monitor the case and promised a full briefing. The hunt for Bank continues, with authorities believing he may still be in the Greater Bangkok area. Police have vowed to leave no stone unturned in bringing him and anyone else who may have aided the gang to justice. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-06-03.

Ceiling Collapse at Thai Immigration Office Caused by Air Conditioning Leak Pictures courtesy of Amarin Immigration authorities have confirmed that a ceiling collapse at their training centre in central Bangkok was the result of an air conditioning malfunction, not a structural failure. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362529-ceiling-collapse-at-thai-immigration-office-caused-by-air-conditioning-leak/

Pictures courtesy of Amarin Immigration authorities have confirmed that a ceiling collapse at their training centre in central Bangkok was the result of an air conditioning malfunction, not a structural failure. The incident occurred at 09:00, on 2 June in the “Chaiyo Yodsuk” meeting room on the third floor of the Immigration Bureau’s Personnel Training and Welfare Centre on Rama I Road, Pathumwan district. According to initial investigations, condensation from a malfunctioning air conditioning unit had dripped onto the ceiling panels over an extended period, weakening them until they eventually gave way. A statement from the Immigration Bureau clarified that the collapse was unrelated to the building’s structural integrity. The damage was limited to one section of the meeting room ceiling. National Police Chief, Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanpet, stated that the cause was water accumulation due to a clogged condenser in the air conditioning system. He noted that the unit had not been serviced for approximately three years, which led to poor ventilation and water leakage onto the ceiling panels. “This incident should serve as a reminder of the importance of regular maintenance,” said Pol. Gen. Kittirat. “The air filters must be changed and the air conditioning units cleaned every six months to prevent such failures.” The Royal Thai Police have instructed the engineering division and the Immigration Bureau to carry out a full inspection of the entire building. All other ceiling areas, air conditioning systems and potential leak points are being assessed to ensure the safety of staff and visitors. Authorities reiterated that no injuries were reported and that the building remains safe for use. Comprehensive maintenance and inspections are now underway. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-06-03.

Speedboat Collides with Longtail Boat Near Phi Phi Islands, Injuring Three Picture courtesy of Amarin. A marine incident occurred off the coast of Phi Phi Leh Island when a speedboat carrying tourists collided at speed with a traditional longtail boat, causing the latter to capsize. The crash left the longtail boat’s captain and two Chinese tourists injured after they were thrown into the sea. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1362528-speedboat-collides-with-longtail-boat-near-phi-phi-islands-injuring-three/

Picture courtesy of Amarin. A marine incident occurred off the coast of Phi Phi Leh Island when a speedboat carrying tourists collided at speed with a traditional longtail boat, causing the latter to capsize. The crash left the longtail boat’s captain and two Chinese tourists injured after they were thrown into the sea. Footage of the incident, captured from inside the speedboat, was posted online by Facebook user Thawichai Sutmee. The video shows the speedboat, reportedly travelling at speed with a full load of passengers, striking the longtail boat with a strong jolt before coming to a halt as panicked tourists react. The post’s caption criticised the speedboat captain for appearing drowsy at the helm and failing to observe basic safety protocols. The collision reportedly occurred late morning on 30 May 2025 near Laem Head, Phi Phi Leh, a popular tourist spot. The longtail boat, named Nutmeena, was being piloted by 62-year-old Mr. Mahad Raksaree, who was transporting two Chinese tourists to the Viking Cave area when the crash took place. The impact caused his boat to overturn and sink. Mr. Thewes Khongtuk, the 45-year-old son of Mr. Mahad, spoke to the media, explaining that his father was operating the boat normally when the speedboat, approaching at speed, rammed into the middle of the vessel. Mr. Mahad sustained a broken collarbone, while the two tourists escaped with minor injuries. The longtail boat was completely wrecked. “The sea is wide open, visibility stretches well over 500 metres. There’s no excuse for not seeing another vessel,” said Mr. Thewes, expressing frustration that the speedboat operator had yet to take responsibility. He added that the other party had suggested Mr. Mahad was at fault, a claim he strongly refutes. Local police on Phi Phi Island confirmed that the speedboat had departed from Phuket and was en route to Phi Phi Leh when the incident occurred. Officers have not yet determined who was at fault and stated they will be working with the Krabi Marine Department to bring both parties in for further questioning. The incident has reignited concerns over tourist safety and speed regulation in Thailand’s busy coastal waters. Authorities are being urged to take swift action to ensure accountability and prevent similar occurrences in the future. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-06-03.

Drunken Foreign Tourists Assault Thai Woman, Locals Step In with Brutal Response Picture courtesy of Daily News A violent incident in Phuket’s Bangla Road nightlife district has sparked widespread debate after two foreign tourists allegedly assaulted a Thai woman in a bar, prompting a group of local men to retaliate with a fierce physical attack that left the visitors unconscious. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362527-drunken-foreign-tourists-assault-thai-woman-locals-step-in-with-brutal-response/

Picture courtesy of Daily News A violent incident in Phuket’s Bangla Road nightlife district has sparked widespread debate after two foreign tourists allegedly assaulted a Thai woman in a bar, prompting a group of local men to retaliate with a fierce physical attack that left the visitors unconscious. The confrontation, which occurred in the Patong area of Kathu district, was captured in a 22-second video clip and widely shared by the local Facebook page โหดจัง จังหวัดภูเก็ต (Brutal Phuket). The footage shows several Thai men rushing to attack the two intoxicated tourists, reportedly after the pair slapped a woman inside the venue. The attackers are seen punching and kicking the tourists, ultimately leaving both men motionless on the ground. The clip was captioned, “Low-quality tourists slap a woman in a bar and get thoroughly beaten in return.” The incident has ignited a firestorm on Thai social media, with netizens expressing a range of reactions. While some praised the locals for defending the woman’s dignity, others lamented the rising violence and lawlessness tarnishing Phuket’s once, charming image. Comments ranged from concern to applause: • “Phuket gets more barbaric by the day. It’s losing its beauty due to a few selfish people.” • “Incidents like this will drive away quality tourists. Who would feel safe with visa-free policies attracting this kind of behaviour?” • “This needs to happen more often, fewer tourists might mean fewer problems.” • “This isn’t about visas, it’s about people. We shouldn’t tolerate disrespectful behaviour from anyone.” • “Well done to the Thai guys. That’s how you deal with it, give them something to remember.” Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the incident, and it is unclear whether any arrests have been made. The viral video has further fuelled ongoing concerns about the safety of both locals and visitors amid increasing reports of crime and unruly behaviour. Adapted by Asean Now from Daily News 2025-06-03.

Mobile Phone Stolen While Woman Sleeps Inside Pattaya Police Station Picture courtesy of SiamChon. A 21-year-old woman has reported the theft of her mobile phone, from inside a police station, after she dozed off while charging it, in an incident that has raised concerns over public safety in supposedly secure government premises. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362516-mobile-phone-stolen-while-woman-sleeps-inside-pattaya-police-station/

Picture courtesy of SiamChon. A 21-year-old woman has reported the theft of her mobile phone, from inside a police station, after she dozed off while charging it, in an incident that has raised concerns over public safety in supposedly secure government premises. The incident occurred shortly after midnight on the morning of 3 June at Pattaya City Police Station in Chonburi Province. Pol. Lt. Col. Itthiphon Tangchuthaveesap, the duty investigator at the time, received the report from Ms Pimnapa, a young woman from Nakhon Ratchasima. According to Ms Pimnapa, she had entered the station seeking to charge her Infinix R17 smartphone, valued at approximately 4,900 baht, using an outlet next to a water dispenser provided for public use. She sat nearby while waiting, but soon nodded off. Upon waking a short time later, she discovered that her phone had vanished without a trace. Despite searching the area, she was unable to locate the device and became convinced it had been stolen. Dejected and shocked, she proceeded to report the theft to police officers on duty. “I thought the police station would be the safest place,” Ms Pimnapa told officers. “I never imagined a thief would be lurking there. I came from out of town to travel and look for work, but I haven’t found a job yet. I’m truly speechless and heartbroken.” Police immediately reviewed the station’s CCTV footage and have launched an investigation to identify the perpetrator. The boldness of the theft, occurring in a government building under surveillance, has prompted concern, with officers vowing to pursue the case. Pol. Lt. Col. Itthiphon confirmed that a report had been filed and that investigators are analysing footage from the station’s security cameras in a bid to track down the suspect. Authorities have also reminded the public to remain cautious with personal belongings, even in official spaces, while they continue their efforts to bring the offender to justice. Adapted by Asean Now from SiamChon 2025-06-03.

Wild Elephant With a Sweet Tooth Strolls Into Shop Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A mischievous wild elephant known for his frequent jaunts through local villages has taken his snack-hunting antics to a new level, by walking straight into a neighbourhood grocery shop in broad daylight. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362515-wild-elephant-with-a-sweet-tooth-strolls-into-shop/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A mischievous wild elephant known for his frequent jaunts through local villages has taken his snack-hunting antics to a new level, by walking straight into a neighbourhood grocery shop in broad daylight. The elephant, named Plai Biang Lek, is a familiar figure to residents living near Khao Yai National Park. However, his unexpected appearance inside a small grocery shop in Nakhon Ratchasima Province on the afternoon of 2 June, marked a first, even for him. The incident occurred around 15:00, when the towering animal strolled into the store and helped himself to a spontaneous feast, surprising the shop owner, Ploy, who was serving customers at the time. Ploy fled to safety and promptly alerted officials from Khao Yai National Park. When park rangers arrived, they attempted to guide the elephant out of the premises. However, Plai Biang Lek seemed unfazed by the commotion and was in no hurry to leave. Instead, he spent over 10 minutes leisurely browsing the shop’s merchandise using his trunk, apparently searching for his preferred treats. Interestingly, while wild elephants that venture into human settlements often go for salty foods, Plai Biang Lek demonstrated a rather refined palate. He chose “Nang Led,” a traditional Thai crispy sweet snack, along with a carton of chicken eggs, opting for sugar and protein over salt. The elephant eventually exited the store without incident, though not without leaving behind some minor chaos. The impromptu visit caused damage to shelving and stock. According to park officials, Plai Biang Lek has been spotted in the area numerous times and once raided a porridge vendor’s stall. However, this latest escapade, actually entering a shop and displaying a sweet tooth, was described as highly unusual behaviour for a wild elephant. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges posed by human-wildlife interactions in regions bordering national parks across Thailand. As natural habitats shrink and elephants search farther afield for food, encounters such as this are becoming increasingly common. Officials from Khao Yai National Park say they will continue to monitor Plai Biang Lek’s movements, while urging residents and shopkeepers to remain vigilant. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-03.

Foreign Minister: Cambodia’s Move to Seek ICJ Ruling Within Its Rights, Will Not Impact JBC Picture courtesy of Amarin. Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa has confirmed that Cambodia’s request for parliamentary approval to refer a border dispute with Thailand to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is within its rights and will not affect ongoing discussions under the bilateral Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) mechanism. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362514-foreign-minister-cambodia’s-move-to-seek-icj-ruling-within-its-rights-will-not-impact-jbc/

Picture courtesy of Amarin. Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa has confirmed that Cambodia’s request for parliamentary approval to refer a border dispute with Thailand to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is within its rights and will not affect ongoing discussions under the bilateral Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) mechanism. Speaking during his official visit to Paris for the OECD (Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development) Ministerial Council Meeting, Mr Maris stressed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is closely monitoring developments along the Thai-Cambodian border. He revealed that he has instructed the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry to convene a meeting of relevant departments to consolidate legal evidence, including photographic documentation, in preparation for negotiations. “The most important objective is to resolve the issue peacefully. We must avoid escalating the conflict and instead pursue a diplomatic strategy that aligns all our efforts in a unified direction,” Mr Maris said. He reiterated Thailand’s commitment to peaceful dialogue, particularly with a neighbouring country with which it shares deep historical ties. “Diplomacy must prevail, not force,” he added, outlining it as a key policy directive for Thai diplomats. The minister further emphasised the significance of the JBC as a mechanism for reducing tensions and addressing boundary issues. While Cambodia is currently designated to host the next JBC meeting, Mr Maris stated that Thailand is ready to host if Phnom Penh is not prepared. “In the interest of de-escalating tensions and finding a way forward on boundary demarcation, we consider the JBC a crucial tool. We are urging Cambodia to convene the meeting as soon as possible,” he noted. In response to recent incidents, Thailand has lodged an official protest with Cambodia, affirming its actions adhere strictly to international legal standards and uphold Thai sovereignty and territorial integrity. Mr Maris also announced that a high-level meeting will be held on 5 June upon his return to Thailand to finalise the nation’s stance. “I am assessing the situation constantly and remain in regular online contact with the Ministry as events develop,” he said. When asked whether Cambodia’s move to bring the matter before the ICJ would interfere with the JBC process, Mr Maris firmly responded that it would not. “It is Cambodia’s sovereign right to seek a ruling from the ICJ, just as Thailand has the sovereign right to pursue its own legal and diplomatic strategies,” he explained. In closing, the Minister stressed the importance of formulating a comprehensive strategic policy for negotiations with Cambodia, taking into account both bilateral relations and available international mechanisms. Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1362441-thailand-ramps-up-border-talks-with-cambodia-to-ease-tensions/ Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-06-03.

Human Skeleton Found in Abandoned Café, Dog Seen Playing with Skull Picture courtesy of Amarin. Police in Nakhon Sawan have launched an investigation after human skeletal remains, including a skull, were discovered being carried and gnawed on by a dog. Authorities believe the individual may have been dead for over a month. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362513-human-skeleton-found-in-abandoned-café-dog-seen-playing-with-skull/

Picture courtesy of Amarin. Police in Nakhon Sawan have launched an investigation after human skeletal remains, including a skull, were discovered being carried and gnawed on by a dog. Authorities believe the individual may have been dead for over a month. At approximately 16:00 on 2 June, Pol. Lt. Suthat Muangsuk, an investigator at Mueang Nakhon Sawan Police Station, received a report from a local resident concerning the discovery of a human skull at an old, disused café located at 184/174, Moo 10, Nakhon Sawan Tok Subdistrict. The report came from Mr Warong Theerata, the property owner, who told police that he had been alerted by a neighbour that one of the dogs kept on the premises had been roaming the area and behaving unusually. Upon inspecting the premises, Mr Warong was shocked to find the dog had brought a human skull into the building and was playing with it. Mr Warong stated that the café had been closed for some time but he had allowed a local man, 65-year-old Mr Somprasong Makam, who was reportedly suffering from various health issues, to live on the premises as he had no fixed residence. According to neighbours, Mr Somprasong was last seen walking near the café on about 2 May. Near a banana tree in the grounds of the café, other bones were also found scattered around. The dog had evidently brought the skull into the main building. Authorities from the Guanyin Foundation rescue team arrived at the scene to assist police in locating and collecting the remains. While initial speculation suggests the remains could be those of Mr Somprasong, police have yet to confirm the identity. The skull has been taken for forensic examination and a wider search of the property is underway to locate the rest of the skeleton and hopefully determine the cause of death. Police stressed that no conclusions have been drawn at this stage. The case remains under investigation, pending further forensic analysis. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-06-03.

Tourist Police Crack Down on Bangkok Taxi Drivers Exploiting Foreign Visitors Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Tourist Police Bureau has launched a targeted operation against taxi drivers in Bangkok who exploit tourists, resulting in the arrest of 26 individuals in key tourist hotspots including Siam Square and the Grand Palace. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362512-tourist-police-crack-down-on-bangkok-taxi-drivers-exploiting-foreign-visitors/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Tourist Police Bureau has launched a targeted operation against taxi drivers in Bangkok who exploit tourists, resulting in the arrest of 26 individuals in key tourist hotspots including Siam Square and the Grand Palace. The operation, conducted on 2 June, was led by Pol. Col. Milin Pianchang, Chief of Tourist Police Division 1, alongside senior officers from the Tourist Police, Central Traffic Police, Pathumwan Police Station, and the Department of Land Transport. The initiative aimed to address growing complaints about dishonest practices among some taxi drivers in the capital. Under Col. Milin’s direction, officers were deployed to Siam Square, a major shopping and entertainment district popular with international visitors and to the area in front of the Grand Palace, one of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks. The crackdown involved two key measures: 1. Arresting taxi drivers who violated laws in high-traffic tourist areas. 2. Increasing mobile patrols to maintain a consistent law enforcement presence along major tourist routes. A total of 26 taxi drivers were charged with the following offences: • Failure to use the fare meter as legally required: 17 cases • Refusal to accept passengers: 6 cases • Improper dress code: 2 cases • Using a vehicle for unauthorised purposes: 1 case Authorities also reminded tourists to report any incidents of exploitation or misconduct through the Tourist Police hotline 1155, which is supported by interpreters in eight languages and operates 24 hours a day. Reports can also be filed via the TPB (Tourist Police Bureau) mobile app. The Tourist Police Bureau reaffirmed its commitment to protecting visitors and maintaining Thailand’s reputation as a safe and welcoming travel destination. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-03.

Thailand Considers Importing Up to 5 Million Tonnes of LNG Annually from Alaska Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Ministry of Energy has confirmed it is exploring the possibility of importing between 2 and 5 million tonnes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) annually, with a new supply option emerging from Alaska in the United States. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362511-thailand-considers-importing-up-to-5-million-tonnes-of-lng-annually-from-alaska/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Ministry of Energy has confirmed it is exploring the possibility of importing between 2 and 5 million tonnes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) annually, with a new supply option emerging from Alaska in the United States. Speaking on Monday, Deputy Permanent Secretary and ministry spokesperson, Veerapat Kiatfuengfoo, said the move is aimed at ensuring long-term energy security and price stability for the country. He explained that Thailand currently relies on natural gas for over 58% of its electricity generation, with domestic supply from the Gulf of Thailand only able to meet around 60% of demand, a figure expected to decline further in the coming years. “The Alaskan LNG source is commercially viable and strategically located. It offers a way to diversify our energy imports, reduce dependency on any single region and secure lower-cost supplies,” Veerapat said. The Alaska LNG project, based in the North Slope region, holds more than 40 trillion cubic feet of proven gas reserves and is expected to produce over 20 million tonnes of LNG annually beginning in 2028, with supply expected to continue for up to 80 years. The total investment in the project is valued at over US$44 billion. Veerapat noted that LNG shipments from Alaska could reach Thailand in just 10 to 15 days, significantly quicker than the 20 to 35 days typically required for shipments from the Middle East. The shorter delivery time, coupled with lower production costs and competitive pricing, makes Alaska an attractive new supply option. The project, which is nearing final investment decision status, has garnered international interest from countries such as Japan, Taiwan and South Korea. It also includes state-of-the-art environmental and safety measures, including carbon capture and storage technology in its production process. Veerapat emphasised that price is a key consideration in any LNG procurement, as it directly affects electricity prices in Thailand. Lower fuel costs would help maintain affordable power rates for consumers while also encouraging foreign investment, particularly in high-tech sectors such as electric vehicles, artificial intelligence, cloud services and data centre expansion. “Alaska LNG is a promising alternative. It offers competitive pricing, shorter transit times, and greater supply diversity,” he said, adding that Thai LNG shippers are currently in detailed negotiations to assess the commercial viability of importing from Alaska. The final decision on import volumes will depend on ongoing discussions, including pricing and contractual terms. The Ministry of Energy is actively evaluating the proposal as part of its broader strategy to strengthen national energy resilience. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-03.