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Soldier Found Dead in Irrigation Canal After Valentine’s Day Visit to Mother An incident unfolded in Singburi Province on 16th February, when the body of a 19-year-old soldier was discovered floating in an irrigation canal, two days after he had visited his mother on Valentine’s Day. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351976-soldier-found-dead-in-irrigation-canal-after-valentine’s-day-visit-to-mother/

Picture from responders. An incident unfolded in Singburi Province on 16th February, when the body of a 19-year-old soldier was discovered floating in an irrigation canal, two days after he had visited his mother on Valentine’s Day. The body was found by authorities in the canal adjacent to the Chao Phon Kai irrigation route, near the boundary of villages 5 and 6, Tambon Pho Chon Kai, in Bang Rachan District. The victim, later identified as Pochrapol, was found face down in the water, wearing military fatigues and a long-sleeved shirt. No signs of injury or foul play were evident on the body, leading officials to believe he had died approximately two days earlier. At the scene, officials found a red motorcycle, a mobile phone, and a black shoulder bag submerged in the water, which were confirmed to belong to the deceased. Pochrapol’s mother, Somphat, aged 36, recounted how her son had visited her and friends on 14th February, sharing that he planned to meet friends in the nearby Tambon Sra Jang. When he did not return the following day and his phone went unanswered, she grew concerned, as her son was known to be attached to his mobile phone. Friends later informed her that Pochrapol had told them he was returning home around 02:00 on 15th February. After a prolonged search, Pochrapol’s body was found in the canal, and his death is now under investigation. Authorities have sent the body for forensic examination at the Institute of Forensic Science to determine the exact cause of death. The family remains in shock, and local authorities are continuing their inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the soldier’s untimely death. -- 2025-02-17

Endangered Leopard Cat Cub Rescued from Roadside in Lampang After Fleeing Wildfire Officials from the Wiang Kosai National Park rescue team have successfully rescued a male leopard cat found collapsed at the side of the road, believed to have fled from a nearby wildfire. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351974-endangered-leopard-cub-rescued-from-roadside-in-lampang-after-fleeing-wildfire/

Picture from Wiang Kosai National Park Officials from the Wiang Kosai National Park rescue team have successfully rescued a male leopard cat found collapsed at the side of the road, believed to have fled from a nearby wildfire. The incident occurred during a routine patrol by park rangers on 16th February, along the boundary between the national park and a buffer forest area in the Samai Seree village, Sobprab District, Lampang Province. The team discovered the exhausted young leopard cat cub lying near the road leading to the Lam Huai Samai Luang forest, just outside the park’s protected area. Given the signs of widespread wildfire in the surrounding forest, officials believe the animal had fled the flames but became too weak to continue. The rescue team immediately provided water and food to the animal and transported it to the Wiang Kosai National Park office in Wang Chin District, Phrae Province, for further care and observation. The leopard cat cub will eventually be handed over to the Wildlife Conservation Office of the 13th Conservation Area Administration (Phrae) for proper rehabilitation and release back into the wild. Leopard cats are a protected species under the Wildlife Preservation and Protection Act, classified as a mammal under item 147. It is illegal for anyone to possess such an animal without the proper permits. Authorities urge the public to respect wildlife protection laws to ensure the safety and conservation of these endangered species. -- 2025-02-17

Chinese Man Faces Arrest Over Death of Thai Woman in Hotel Room Police have issued an arrest warrant for a Chinese man suspected of causing the death of a 22-year-old Thai woman, identified as Ms. Airda, after she was found dead in a hotel room in the Bang Kapi area of Bangkok. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351973-chinese-man-faces-arrest-over-death-of-thai-woman-in-hotel-room/

Pictures captured from CCTV of suspect and victim. Police have issued an arrest warrant for a Chinese man suspected of causing the death of a 22-year-old Thai woman, identified as Ms. Airda, after she was found dead in a hotel room in the Bang Kapi area of Bangkok. The incident, which occurred on 10th February, has raised concerns over the safety of individuals in the entertainment industry, with police pledging to investigate thoroughly and hold any officers found negligent accountable. According to police reports, on the evening of 9th February, the Chinese man, identified only as Mr. Duoying, checked into the hotel. Ms. Airda arrived later after 02:00, on 10th February, and was later discovered dead in the room, without visible signs of struggle or injury. Surveillance footage revealed that Mr. Duoying left the hotel at 06:16 and did not return, raising further suspicions. Hotel staff reported the discovery of the body later that morning. The police investigation has already questioned several individuals, including the modelling agent who arranged the job for Ms. Airda, who reportedly had agreed to provide entertainment services involving illicit substances. Preliminary reports suggest that Ms. Airda may have been unknowingly coerced into using drugs, which led to her fatal overdose. Police Chief Lt. Gen. Siam Boonsom has emphasized the urgency of the investigation, instructing officers to expedite the case and ensure justice for the deceased’s family. He has also warned that any police officers found to be negligent or complicit in covering up the crime will face disciplinary and criminal action. The arrest warrant for Mr. Duoying was issued on 16th February, with the charge of manslaughter due to reckless conduct leading to death. Police are actively seeking his whereabouts, with immigration authorities alerted to prevent his escape from the country. Meanwhile, the family of Ms. Airda has expressed frustration and heartbreak, believing that she had been misled into taking the job by her modelling agent, who allegedly has ties to law enforcement. The victim’s sister, Ms. Anarat, has revealed that the family only learned of the nature of her work after her death, and they have expressed concerns over potential corruption within the police force. During a meeting with officers at Chok Chai Police Station, Ms. Anarat was reportedly presented with two options for proceeding with the case: accepting a financial settlement of 500,000 Baht or pursuing the matter in court. The family has expressed their determination to seek justice, despite being warned that the case may be difficult to win. “We want the truth,” Ms. Anarat stated. “Our priority is justice for my sister, and we will not stop until we get it.” The police investigation continues, with authorities promising full cooperation with the family and all efforts to bring the responsible parties to justice. -- 2025-02-17

Family of Four Survives Crash as Pickup Truck Overturns in Buriram A family of four, including two young children, miraculously survived after their pickup truck veered off the road and overturned in Chaloem Phra Kiat District, Buriram. The crash, believed to have been caused by the driver falling asleep at the wheel, left the mother trapped inside the wreckage, while locals rushed to rescue the children. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351971-family-of-four-survives-crash-as-pickup-truck-overturns-in-buriram/

Picture from responders. A family of four, including two young children, miraculously survived after their pickup truck veered off the road and overturned in Chaloem Phra Kiat District, Buriram. The crash, believed to have been caused by the driver falling asleep at the wheel, left the mother trapped inside the wreckage, while locals rushed to rescue the children. Police from Chaloem Phra Kiat Police Station received a report of the crash along the Ban Ta Pek-Khok Si Lakon Road in Moo 3, Charoensuk Subdistrict. Emergency responders, including paramedics from Chaloem Phra Kiat Hospital and local rescue teams, were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, authorities found a silver Isuzu pickup truck, registration from Buriram, overturned beside the road. Witnesses had already managed to pull out a two-year-old girl and a six-year-old boy from the vehicle. The father, identified as Mr. Natthaphumin Manthong, who had been driving, had crawled out of the wreckage with minor injuries. Despite his own shock and pain, he pleaded for help for his wife, Ms. Namfon Manthong, who remained trapped inside with her leg pinned under the vehicle. Rescue teams worked for 20 minutes to free Ms. Namfon from the wreckage before rushing her to Chaloem Phra Kiat Hospital. While the father and children sustained only minor injuries, Ms. Namfon’s condition was more serious, with a badly fractured legs. Ms. Thongbai Nugul, 61, a resident of nearby Khok Si Lakon Village, recounted hearing a loud crash in the early hours and rushing to the scene. She and other locals managed to pull the children to safety before emergency services arrived, fearing a possible fuel leak could lead to a fire. The driver, Mr. Natthaphumin, later told police that his family had been travelling from Nong Waeng, Lahan Sai District, on their way home to Ban Nong Sakae, Charoensuk Subdistrict. He admitted to falling asleep at the wheel, losing control, and crashing. Police are continuing their investigation into the crash, though early indications suggest fatigue was the primary cause. Authorities have urged motorists to take regular breaks on long journeys to prevent such incidents. -- 2025-02-17

Gamer Rage Turns Deadly: Myanmar Man Stabs Friend to Death After Losing Online Match A heated argument over an online game took a turn in Rayong when a Myanmar national fatally stabbed his friend after losing. The suspect, who was reportedly intoxicated, later realised the gravity of his actions and surrendered to the police. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351970-gamer-rage-turns-deadly-myanmar-man-stabs-friend-to-death-after-losing-online-match/

Picture from responders. A heated argument over an online game took a turn in Rayong when a Myanmar national fatally stabbed his friend after losing. The suspect, who was reportedly intoxicated, later realised the gravity of his actions and surrendered to the police. Police at Nikhom Phatthana Police Station were alerted to the incident, which took place at a rented room in Moo 1, Nikhom Phatthana District. Upon arrival, officers found a large pool of blood outside the victim’s room, with signs of a struggle and scattered belongings. The suspect, identified as Mr. Wai Phyo Kyaw, 33, was standing by, waiting to surrender. He handed over a bloodstained knife and admitted to stabbing his friend, Mr. Nay Aung Kyaw Moe, who had sustained a stab wound to the left ribcage. The victim was rushed to Nikhom Phatthana Hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly after. During questioning, Wai Phyo Kyaw confessed that he and the victim had been close friends and frequently played online games together. However, after losing a game, he became enraged, partly due to intoxication and stormed into his friend’s room, stabbing him in a fit of anger. Once he regained his composure, he attempted to help his wounded friend get medical assistance, but it was too late. Expressing deep regret, he admitted his actions were a grave mistake. Police have taken Wai Phyo Kyaw into custody for further investigation and legal proceedings. Authorities have also informed the victim’s family and will facilitate the necessary arrangements for the funeral. -- 2025-02-17

Film Crew Member Found Dead in Vehicle in Nonthaburi A man working with a film crew was found dead on 15 February, under mysterious circumstances inside a parked vehicle in Nonthaburi. Police and rescue personnel from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation were called to the scene after reports of an unresponsive man inside a pickup truck near Samakkhi Intersection on Tiwanon Road, Tha Sai, Mueang Nonthaburi district. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351968-film-crew-member-found-dead-in-vehicle-in-nonthaburi/

Picture from responders. A man working with a film crew was found dead on 15 February, under mysterious circumstances inside a parked vehicle in Nonthaburi. Police and rescue personnel from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation were called to the scene after reports of an unresponsive man inside a pickup truck near Samakkhi Intersection on Tiwanon Road, Tha Sai, Mueang Nonthaburi district. At the scene, officers found a grey Isuzu pickup truck, registration from Bangkok, with the engine still running. Inside, in the passenger seat, lay the body of Mr. Phaitoon Phayakmaroeng, 47, who appeared to be in a reclined position. A preliminary examination by forensic doctors revealed no visible injuries or signs of foul play. A witness, identified only as Mr. A, reported seeing the pickup truck arrive at the parking area in the afternoon. However, he noticed no one exiting the vehicle. At 19:30, he observed that the engine was still running with hazard lights flashing, which raised suspicion. Subsequent review of CCTV footage revealed that at 13:16, Mr. Phaitoon had stopped at the traffic lights at Samakkhi Intersection but failed to move when the light turned green. Other drivers had to manoeuvre around his stationary vehicle. A good Samaritan wearing black clothing and a black helmet, along with other bystanders, assisted him by moving him from the driver’s seat to the passenger side and driving the vehicle to the parking area for him to rest. Unfortunately, he later passed away inside the truck. Further footage from 13:22 showed the pickup entering the parking lot, and at 13:23, a man wearing a black long-sleeved shirt and a black helmet was seen walking away from the vehicle. Police contacted Mr. Phaitoon’s wife, who resides in another province. She confirmed that her husband worked on a film set and had experienced a similar fainting spell last month. However, he had refused to seek medical attention at the time, leaving his health status unknown. Authorities have documented the scene and secured the CCTV footage as evidence. Mr. Phaitoon’s body has been sent to the Institute of Forensic Medicine for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. -- 2025-02-17

Russian Man and Three Thai Nationals Arrested in Phuket for Financial Crimes Immigration officers in Phuket, in collaboration with the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), have arrested a Russian national and three Thai individuals linked to financial fraud. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351967-russian-man-and-three-thai-nationals-arrested-in-phuket-for-financial-crimes/

Picture of arrest Immigration officers in Phuket, in collaboration with the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), have arrested a Russian national and three Thai individuals linked to financial fraud. On 15 February at 16:30, authorities conducted a series of raids to apprehend the suspects, acting on arrest warrants issued by Thai courts. The first raid took place at a residence in Moo 6, Si Sunthon, Thalang District, where officers arrested Egor Nikolaevich Glebov, a 38-year-old Russian national. He was wanted under a Criminal Court arrest warrant issued on 15 January 2025, accused of conspiring to commit offences against the United States and wire fraud conspiracy. A second raid was conducted at a residence in Moo 4, Ko Kaeo, Mueang Phuket District, based on a search warrant dated 10 February 2025. Three Thai suspects were arrested for their alleged involvement in financial scams using ‘mule accounts’, bank accounts used to facilitate illegal transactions. The arrested individuals were: • Phumint, wanted under a Phuket Provincial Court warrant (No. 127/2025, issued on 10 February), charged with organising and promoting illegal gambling activities. • Jiranan, arrested under a Phuket Provincial Court warrant (No. 117/2025, issued on 10 February), facing the same charges. • Sarika, also wanted under a Phuket Provincial Court warrant (No. 120/2025, issued on 10 February), accused of similar offences. Authorities are now conducting further investigations to identify additional individuals involved in the network. The arrested suspects will face legal proceedings under Thai law, with Mr. Glebov potentially facing extradition proceedings related to the charges filed against him in the United States. -- 2025-02-17

School Van Overturns in Phayao, Injuring Seven A school van from Chun district, Phayao, overturned on the Rong Kwang-Ngao Road in Phrae province, leaving seven passengers injured. The crash occurred at kilometre 33+400, slightly past the Sri Phum checkpoint. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351966-school-van-overturns-in-phayao-injuring-seven/

Pictures from responders. A school van from Chun district, Phayao, overturned on the Rong Kwang-Ngao Road in Phrae province, leaving seven passengers injured. The crash occurred at kilometre 33+400, slightly past the Sri Phum checkpoint. Emergency responders, including rescue teams from Luniget, Huai Mai, Song Ruam Jai, and Song Hospital, rushed to the scene after receiving an alert from the Wiang Phra Lo Radio Centre and the Narenthorn Emergency Centre in Phrae. They found the van flipped upside down on the roadside, with passengers trapped inside. The van was carrying a total of eight people, including the driver. Seven passengers sustained injuries, and emergency teams worked swiftly to extricate them before transporting them to Song Hospital. Three of the injured were later transferred to Phrae Hospital for further treatment. The driver stated that he had been taking the students to a Dhamma competition in Ayutthaya. They had departed from Ayutthaya around 05.00 and he claimed the accident happened suddenly without knowing the exact cause. Following the incident, police charged the driver with reckless driving causing injury. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the precise cause of the crash. -- 2025-02-17

UPDATE “Polite” Gold Shop Robber Arrested in Samut Prakan A man who stole gold from a shop in Samut Prakan, showing unusual courtesy during the crime, has been arrested. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351883-“polite”-thief-steals-gold-necklace-for-valentine’s-gift-in-samut-prakan/#findComment-19591397

UPDATE “Polite” Gold Shop Robber Arrested in Samut Prakan Picture of suspect returning to the shop with police. A man who stole gold from a shop in Samut Prakan, showing unusual courtesy during the crime, has been arrested. Police in Samut Prakan have arrested 26-year-old Chayanon Buthongha, a native of Nakhon Si Thammarat, in connection with a gold shop robbery that took place on 14 February. Chayanon, a chef and part-time delivery rider, allegedly stole a 1.5-baht-weight gold necklace and the shop owner’s mobile phone after politely removing his shoes and giving a wai before committing the crime. CCTV footage captured the suspect fleeing the scene with not only the stolen items but also the shop’s Wi-Fi router, which police believe he mistook for a CCTV server. Following an urgent investigation, officers traced Chayanon to a residence in Wat Dan Alley, where he was arrested on 16 February. He reportedly confessed to the crime, stating that he was struggling with an outstanding informal debt of 20,000 baht and had planned the robbery after failing to find other means to repay it. According to Pol. Maj. Gen. Wichit Boonchinwutthikul, Commander of Samut Prakan Provincial Police, the suspect targeted a newly opened gold shop staffed only by women and an elderly employee, believing it to be an easier target. After the robbery, he sold the stolen gold at a shop in Samrong for 40,000 baht, intending to use the money to clear his debt. Authorities have since recovered both the cash from the gold sale and the motorcycle used in the crime. Chayanon has been taken into custody for further legal proceedings. Police have urged gold shop owners to enhance security measures, particularly in newly established shops without protective barriers. Officers noted that criminals often select shops run by women or elderly staff as primary targets. Authorities continue to advise businesses to remain vigilant to prevent future incidents. -- 2025-02-16

Wanted American Arrested in Phuket for Illegal Business Operations A 67-year-old American man has been arrested in Phuket Old Town for allegedly violating Thailand’s Foreign Business Act. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351927-wanted-american-arrested-in-phuket-for-illegal-business-operations/

Picture of arrest. A 67-year-old American man has been arrested in Phuket Old Town for allegedly violating Thailand’s Foreign Business Act. Phuket authorities confirmed the arrest of Donald Ray, a US national, at a restaurant on Takua Pa Road in Talad Yai on the evening of 14 February. The arrest followed a court warrant issued by the Phuket Provincial Court on 13 February. Ray is accused of illegally operating a business in a sector restricted to Thai nationals. Officials suspect he used a Thai national to manage the business, an offence under List 3 of the Foreign Business Act, which aims to protect Thai citizens from foreign competition in certain industries. The arrest came after a tip-off from an informant, and Ray reportedly acknowledged his identity and accepted the charges upon being detained. Authorities have not disclosed specific details about the nature of his business, though local sources suggest he may have been the de facto owner an entertainment establishment. The case raises speculation about the role of the informant, potentially a Thai business associate, who may have initially facilitated the venture. Ray has been handed over to the police for further investigation, with legal proceedings expected. -- 2025-02-16

German Motorcyclist Killed in Collision with SUV in Pattaya A German motorcyclist was killed instantly in a head-on collision with an SUV in Pattaya in the early hours of 16 February. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351925-german-motorcyclist-killed-in-collision-with-suv-in-pattaya/

Picture from responders. A German motorcyclist was killed instantly in a head-on collision with an SUV in Pattaya in the early hours of 16 February. The collision occurred at 01:35, on Huai Yai Road near Soi K9, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi. Emergency responders from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Unit, along with Huai Yai police officers, rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a serious crash. Upon arrival, rescue teams found a damaged bronze Toyota Fortuner, registration number from Bangkok, driven by a 28-year-old man. Nearby, the wreckage of a Yamaha Grand Filano motorcycle, registration number from Chonburi, was scattered across the road. Lying next to the mangled motorcycle was the lifeless body of 45-year-old Mr. Prade Mario Dieter, a German national, who had succumbed to his injuries at the scene. Parts of both vehicles were strewn across the road. The SUV driver told police that he had been returning from the Burapa Pattaya Bike Week event and was driving normally when he suddenly noticed the motorcycle speeding towards him from the opposite lane. Despite his attempts to swerve, he was unable to avoid the collision. Eyewitnesses confirmed that the motorcycle had been travelling at speed and veered into the opposite lane before crashing head-on into the SUV. Following the impact, bystanders immediately alerted rescue services. Police investigator Pol. Lt. Pracharak Suriyah examined the scene and recorded evidence. Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from the area to determine the exact cause of the crash. Meanwhile, the victim’s body has been transported to Pattaya Patthana Kun Hospital, where it will be held until relatives provide the necessary documentation for collection. -- 2025-02-16

LED Screen Collapse Injures Deputy Minister and MP in Yasothon A large LED screen collapsed during an official event in Yasothon province, injuring Deputy Interior Minister Sabida Thaiset and seriously wounding an MP. The incident occurred due to strong winds while the minister was attending a cultural performance. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351913-led-screen-collapse-injures-deputy-minister-and-mp-in-yasothon/

Picture from responders. A large LED screen collapsed during an official event in Yasothon province, injuring Deputy Interior Minister Sabida Thaiset and seriously wounding an MP. The incident occurred due to strong winds while the minister was attending a cultural performance. The incident took place at 15:00 on 15 February, at Kudchum Witthayakhom School in Kudchum district, where Deputy Interior Minister Sabida Thaiset was presiding over the inauguration of a new symbol for Loeng Nok Tha district. The event featured a traditional dance performance by 3,000 dancers and was attended by local officials, including Yasothon Governor Chanchai Sorsriwichai and district leaders. As the minister watched the performance, strong winds caused the metal scaffolding supporting the large LED screen behind the stage to collapse. The falling structure struck those seated on stage, leading to multiple injuries. Minister Sabida sustained minor injuries, including head injury and abrasions. However, Yasothon MP Thanaphat Srichana, from the Bhumjaithai Party, suffered a serious spinal injury and was rushed to Somdej Phra Yuparaj Loeng Nok Tha Hospital before being transferred to Sunpasitthiprasong Hospital in Ubon Ratchathani. Another MP, Suthichai Jaroonnet, also from Bhumjaithai, sustained minor injuries and is receiving treatment at a private hospital in Ubon Ratchathani. Following the incident, Governor Chanchai ordered the immediate suspension of all stage performances and directed local authorities to form an investigative committee to determine the cause of the collapse and identify those responsible. Authorities are now assessing safety measures for public events to prevent similar incidents in the future. -- 2025-02-16

Russian Woman and Myanmar Employee Arrested for Selling Illegal E-Cigarettes on Koh Phangan Police in Koh Phangan have arrested a 27-year-old Russian woman and her 41-year-old Myanmar employee for illegally selling e-cigarettes and shisha products to tourists. A separate raid also led to the arrest of a 55-year-old Thai woman for a similar offence. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351912-russian-woman-and-myanmar-employee-arrested-for-selling-illegal-e-cigarettes-on-koh-phangan/