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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.

UPDATE Gunman Surrenders After Fatal Shooting of Cattle Farmer at Thai Ordination Ceremony Picture courtesy of Matichon. A gunman who allegedly shot and killed a 31-year-old cattle farmer during a Buddhist ordination celebration has surrendered to police, amid allegations the murder was politically motivated. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362436-man-gunned-down-outside-ordination-celebration-in-phetchaburi/#findComment-19843413

UPDATE Gunman Surrenders After Fatal Shooting of Cattle Farmer at Thai Ordination Ceremony Picture courtesy of Matichon. A gunman who allegedly shot and killed a 31-year-old cattle farmer during a Buddhist ordination celebration has surrendered to police, amid allegations the murder was politically motivated. The victim, Mr Sakditat “Nook” , a cattle farmer by trade, was shot multiple times late on 1 June in front of a local official’s residence during a party marking the ordination of the official’s nephew. The incident occurred in Don Yang subdistrict, Mueang Phetchaburi District, along the Nong Bo–Bo Wai Road. The suspect, identified as Mr Boonthavee “Ek”, turned himself in at Mueang Phetchaburi Police Station. He has been charged with three offences: murder, discharging a firearm in a public area and illegal possession of a firearm. He is currently in custody and being questioned. The victim’s mother, Ms Napak, believes her son was deliberately lured to the event under false pretences and murdered due to an ongoing local political feud. She claims she has long-standing tensions with a village headman who lost to her in a subdistrict administrative organisation (SAO) election three years ago. According to her, the headman may have mistakenly believed she was planning to run for SAO president in the upcoming November elections and targeted her son as a key supporter and public figure. Ms Napak said she had warned her son not to attend the ordination celebration. However, he received a phone call falsely claiming that his uncle had been involved in a fight at the event. Acting on concern, he left the house and was later found shot dead. She believes the phone call was a ruse to lure him into an ambush. She also expressed doubt that the gunman acted alone, suggesting someone with influence may have orchestrated the killing. She noted that the suspect was once a close friend of her son, adding to her suspicions. The funeral at the victim’s home began on the morning of 2 June and is planned to last nine nights. Ms Napak has declared she will not cremate her son’s body until the person she believes masterminded the murder is arrested and brought to justice. She also submitted a formal objection to the suspect being granted bail, citing safety concerns. “The suspect is connected to influential figures in the area,” she said, adding that she fears for her family’s safety if he is released. The case has sparked public concern over local political tensions and the abuse of power in rural communities. Police investigations are ongoing. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-03.

Thailand Ramps Up Tourism Safety Measures Amid Crackdown on Illegal Operations Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports is intensifying efforts to make Thailand a safer and more reliable destination for international visitors, with a range of new safety and service measures now being rolled out nationwide. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362510-thailand-ramps-up-tourism-safety-measures-amid-crackdown-on-illegal-operations/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports is intensifying efforts to make Thailand a safer and more reliable destination for international visitors, with a range of new safety and service measures now being rolled out nationwide. In a statement released on 1 June, by the Department of Public Relations, officials said the move was designed to restore tourist confidence in the country following concerns raised by recent online rumours, which the Ministry has confirmed were unfounded and unrelated to the tourism sector. Key initiatives include round-the-clock security patrols in major tourist areas, enhanced airport arrivals support and real-time assistance via a dedicated app. Travellers can also access help through the 1155 tourist police hotline, available 24/7 in multiple languages. To ensure fairness and improve service quality, the government is also working with airlines to boost the number of flights to and from Thailand. Fuel tax reductions are being considered to help reduce airfares. At the same time, authorities are monitoring hotels, transport services and tour operators to ensure transparency and uphold standards. A major crackdown is now underway on illegal tour operations and unlicensed guides. Central to this is the work of the Joint Operations Centre for Combating Nominee Tourism Businesses (JOCN), a task force targeting foreign-owned businesses that operate under the guise of Thai ownership through nominee arrangements, a practice that violates the law. “Thailand must be a destination where tourists feel safe, receive quality service, and enjoy meaningful experiences,” said Permanent Secretary for Tourism and Sports, Natthriya Thaweewong. The initiative is part of a broader government drive to revitalise the tourism industry and reinforce Thailand’s reputation as a world-class travel destination. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-03.

First Anthrax Case Detected in Sa Kaeo, Health Officials to Investigate Source Picture courtesy of Matichon. Health authorities in Sa Kaeo province have confirmed the first human case of anthrax in the region and are deploying an investigation team to the area to prevent further transmission and identify potential sources of infection. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362509-first-anthrax-case-detected-in-sa-kaeo-health-officials-to-investigate-source/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Health authorities in Sa Kaeo province have confirmed the first human case of anthrax in the region and are deploying an investigation team to the area to prevent further transmission and identify potential sources of infection. Dr. Tharapong Kapko, Chief Public Health Officer of Sa Kaeo, stated that the case involves a 53-year-old male woodcutter from Tha Yaek subdistrict in Mueang Sa Kaeo district. The man is currently receiving treatment at a Pattaya Hospital, in Chonburi, where laboratory tests confirmed infection with Bacillus anthracis, the bacterium that causes anthrax. According to Dr. Tharapong, the patient presented with lesions on his head, neck, arms and legs. A detailed history revealed that he regularly consumes raw meat dishes such as “koi” and “soi ju,” and had eaten raw meat roughly one week before falling ill. Authorities suspect the infection was contracted through the consumption of undercooked or contaminated meat from a diseased animal. On 2 June, a field epidemiology team comprising staff from the Communicable Disease Control Unit of the Sa Kaeo Provincial Health Office, the Mueang Sa Kaeo District Health Office, Somdet Phra Yupparat Sa Kaeo Hospital, and the Tha Yaek Subdistrict Health Promotion Hospital began investigations in the local community. The team will trace individuals who may have come into contact with the patient or shared similar exposure risks, and implement preventive measures. Dr. Tharapong has issued a public health warning to residents of Mueang Sa Kaeo and surrounding areas. He urged the public to: • Avoid contact with sick or dead cattle, buffaloes, goats, or sheep. • Wash hands and body thoroughly after handling animals. • Consume only thoroughly cooked meat from certified sources. • Report any unusual animal deaths to livestock authorities. • Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as fever, skin lesions, or respiratory difficulties occur. “Anthrax is a serious zoonotic disease caused by Bacillus anthracis. Its spores can survive in the environment for years and may infect humans through contact with infected animals, consumption of raw or undercooked meat, or handling contaminated animal hides or wool,” Dr. Tharapong explained. He added that the incubation period ranges from 1 to 5 days, with early symptoms including fever, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and skin lesions resembling cigarette burns. In severe cases, patients may suffer respiratory distress and the fatality rate can reach 80%. Fortunately, there are no documented cases of human-to-human transmission of anthrax. Health officials continue to monitor the situation and are working to contain any potential outbreak. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-03.

The Elephant Traffic Whisperer of Khao Yai – A Legend Retires Picture courtesy of Amarin If you’ve visited Khao Yai National Park in the past few years, you may remember a familiar figure standing calmly in the middle of the road, quietly guiding traffic, not of cars, but of elephants. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362508-the-elephant-traffic-whisperer-of-khao-yai-–-a-legend-retires/

Picture courtesy of Amarin If you’ve visited Khao Yai National Park in the past few years, you may remember a familiar figure standing calmly in the middle of the road, quietly guiding traffic, not of cars, but of elephants. That man was Sutthiphon Sinka, affectionately known as “Plai Su”, a legendary figure among park-goers, locals and rangers alike. For over two decades, he served as Khao Yai’s unofficial “elephant traffic officer,” ensuring not only the safety of tourists but also the well-being of the park’s majestic wild elephants. Sutthiphon began his career at Khao Yai in 1999, initially working as part of the scientific patrol team collecting data on wildlife. “I started by collecting elephant dung, building salt licks, recording animal behaviour,” he recalls. But his role soon expanded. His superiors saw the need for someone who could manage the increasingly common encounters between elephants and tourists. That person became Sutthiphon. “Someone had to be there to keep both the people and elephants safe. If no one was watching, things would descend into chaos.” His work was unique. He wasn’t just a ranger. He became a bridge between two worlds. “The safety of visitors always comes first. But elephants must pass me before they meet people,” he explained. His deep knowledge of elephant behaviour, gained from years in the field, was key. “You have to know the elephants, recognise their faces, their temperament. Some are gentle, but a few, three or four in particular, are dangerous. If a tourist car tries to pass at the wrong time, it’ll get smashed. We’ve seen it happen, elephants sitting on cars, kicking bumpers. I’ve been kicked myself, thrown clear across the road. One time the car almost flipped.” But he never held it against the elephants. “It’s not their fault,” he says simply. 100% of the elephants in Khao Yai are wild. Many wander down into local farmland in search of food, leading to conflict. Sutthiphon played a role in guiding those elephants back into the park, a difficult but necessary task. He describes the typical herd dynamic: mostly females and young. Adult males often live solitary lives, only returning to mate before disappearing into the forest again. “They’ll stay three or four days, then vanish. You won’t see them for months.” Khao Yai’s lush ecosystem, rich with grasses, water, and natural salt licks, makes it an ideal home. But tourists unfamiliar with the dangers sometimes try to approach elephants on foot. “That’s a big no,” warns Sutthiphon. “It’s my job to watch for that, too.” Despite rumours, he laughs off suggestions of having a mystical connection with elephants. “No spells, no tricks. You just remember their faces, their personalities. That’s it. Know who’s safe and who’s not.” He emphasises that the biggest danger to both wildlife and humans is speeding. “We have a 60 km/h limit for a reason. Animals cross at any time. Go slower, stay safe. Simple.” If you find yourself face-to-face with an elephant on the road? Don’t honk. Don’t flash lights. Don’t panic. “Watch first. If it looks irritated, back up. If it’s calm, wait. If you can, turn around. Safety comes first, always.” Sutthiphon officially retired from his post. Rumours swirled, but he left quietly, without fanfare. Still, in the minds of those who love Khao Yai, as his legacy remains. He wasn’t just a ranger. He was a protector, a peacekeeper, and perhaps most importantly, a man who truly loved elephants. “In this job,” he once said, “you have to love the elephants. Not chase them, not scare them off. You have to be here, every day, with food and water in your bag, ready to make it through one more day and night with them.” And that’s exactly what he did. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-06-03.

Violent Hotel Car Park Abduction in Trat Was Family Dispute, Say Police Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A shocking incident in a hotel car park in Trat, which initially appeared to be a violent abduction, has now been revealed to be a family dispute, according to police. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362507-violent-hotel-car-park-abduction-in-trat-was-family-dispute-say-police/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A shocking incident in a hotel car park in Trat, which initially appeared to be a violent abduction, has now been revealed to be a family dispute, according to police. On the evening of 1 June, a woman was seen on CCTV being violently assaulted by a man and then dragged into a white van in full view of hotel staff and security cameras. The footage, which quickly circulated on social media, sparked serious concerns about the woman’s safety, prompting an urgent police investigation. Initial reports described how a black Mitsubishi saloon car, with Nonthaburi registration, was blocked by a white enclosed van. The woman driver attempted to flee, but was pursued and forcibly taken away. Her vehicle was later found abandoned and towed for forensic examination. The dramatic footage led to fears of a potential kidnapping. However, police confirmed on 2 June that both the man and woman involved later presented themselves voluntarily to Mueang Trat Police Station. The man, identified only as Mr A, 32, told investigators and reporters that the woman, Ms B, 40, was in fact his cousin. He explained that emotions boiled over when he discovered that Ms B had withheld information about his mother’s critical illness. According to Mr A, he is part of a likay traditional theatre troupe currently performing in Trat. Earlier in the day, he received a phone call from a relative informing him that his mother was in the final stages of cancer. He claimed the family had asked his sister to pass the message through Ms B in advance, but when she said nothing during their time together, he lost control. Ms B reportedly tried to drive away from the scene, but Mr A pursued her in the troupe’s van, confronting her in the hotel car park. The situation quickly escalated into a physical assault and forced removal. Following the incident, both parties met with police to give statements and have since “reconciled”, according to officers. The case, while now deemed to be a domestic matter, has raised questions about public safety, appropriate conflict resolution and the use of violence even within familial disputes. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether charges will be filed, but emphasised that violent behaviour, regardless of motive or relationship, remains a serious offence under the law. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-03.

Drama in Ranong: Missing Boy Feared Drowned Found Hiding in Grass After Four Hours Picture courtesy of Workpoint. What began as a dramatic search-and-rescue operation ended in relief and astonishment when a 13-year-old boy, believed to have drowned, was discovered hiding in a patch of tall grass near his home. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362506-drama-in-ranong-missing-boy-feared-drowned-found-hiding-in-grass-after-four-hours/