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Knife-Wielding Man Arrested After Attempted Robbery of Young Woman on Footbridge Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 36-year-old man was arrested less than 24 hours after he attempted to rob a 21-year-old woman at knifepoint on a pedestrian overpass in front of a technical college in Samut Prakan province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358305-knife-wielding-man-arrested-after-attempted-robbery-of-young-woman-on-footbridge/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 36-year-old man was arrested less than 24 hours after he attempted to rob a 21-year-old woman at knifepoint on a pedestrian overpass in front of a technical college in Samut Prakan province. The suspect, identified as Mr Jeerasak, was apprehended by police near the entrance of a housing estate on Sukhumvit Road in Mueang district. He is accused of committing armed robbery on the evening of 19 April. The victim, Ms Sujitra, told police she was walking down the pedestrian bridge in front of Samut Prakan Technical College at around 19:00 when she was suddenly grabbed from behind. The assailant held a knife to her and demanded her mobile phone. When she resisted, he snatched her handbag, which contained approximately 300 baht in cash, and fled the scene by boarding a songthaew. Investigators from Bang Pu Police Station swiftly launched a manhunt, using eyewitness accounts and local surveillance footage to track the suspect’s movements. Mr Jeerasak was arrested the following day without incident. During questioning, he confessed to the crime, stating that he initially intended to use the stolen money to travel home. However, when the sum proved insufficient, he used it to purchase methamphetamine instead. Police have charged Mr Jeerasak with armed robbery, and he remains in custody pending further legal proceedings. Authorities praised the quick response of officers, which led to the suspect’s rapid capture and potentially prevented further incidents. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod. -- 2025-04-21

EOD Officers Recover 45 Military-Grade Explosives Dumped by Roadside in Chanthaburi Picture courtesy of Komchadluek. Bomb disposal experts were called into action after a shocking discovery of 45 pieces of military ordnance abandoned in a sack by the roadside in Khao Khitchakut District, Chanthaburi. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358304-eod-officers-recover-45-military-grade-explosives-dumped-by-roadside-in-chanthaburi/

Picture courtesy of Komchadluek. Bomb disposal experts were called into action after a shocking discovery of 45 pieces of military ordnance abandoned in a sack by the roadside in Khao Khitchakut District, Chanthaburi. At around 09:00 on 19 April, officers from Khao Khitchakut Police Station received a report from local residents about a suspicious box dumped along the Khakim–Khlong Pong road in Moo 4, Chanthakhlem Subdistrict. Upon inspection, the box was found to contain dozens of explosive devices, prompting an immediate call to the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit from Chanthaburi Provincial Police. The area was cordoned off for public safety as EOD officers conducted a careful assessment. Inside the box, they discovered 42 rounds of M79 grenades (also referred to as 10 cm mortars) and 3 rounds of 60 mm mortar shells. All of the explosives were identified as having previously been used but failed to detonate, commonly referred to as “dud” rounds. Despite being inert, the presence of explosive material inside made them extremely dangerous to handle. The EOD team safely secured the munitions using sand-filled containers to reduce the risk of accidental detonation during transport. The recovery operation was completed by 12:00 noon. According to Pol. Sub Lt. Thanwa Wongnum of the EOD unit, while the fuses of the explosives had been destroyed, the explosive charges within were still active and posed a serious threat. He urged the public never to touch or attempt to collect such items. “If you see any suspicious objects or suspected explosives, report them immediately to authorities. Do not pick them up or try to sell them, not only is it illegal, but it could cost you your life,” he warned. The recovered ordnance is being transferred to the Royal Thai Navy’s training ground, Field TR.16, where it will be safely destroyed during an upcoming military exercise. Authorities are investigating how the military-grade explosives came to be dumped in the area and are working to identify those responsible. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Komchadluek. -- 2025-04-21

Transgender Suspect Arrested After Brutal Attack on Elderly Monk in Buriram Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A 34-year-old transgender individual has been arrested following a brutal pre-dawn assault on 20 April, on a 70-year-old monk at Wat Ta Sao in Huai Rat District, Buriram Province. The monk remains in critical condition with extensive injuries. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358303-transgender-suspect-arrested-after-brutal-attack-on-elderly-monk-in-buriram/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A 34-year-old transgender individual has been arrested following a brutal pre-dawn assault on 20 April, on a 70-year-old monk at Wat Ta Sao in Huai Rat District, Buriram Province. The monk remains in critical condition with extensive injuries. The suspect, identified as Phitsanu, also known locally as “Jae”, was apprehended at a petrol station in Nang Rong District later that day. The arrest followed a swift investigation by officers from Huai Rat Police Station and Buriram Provincial Police, who had traced the suspect’s movements via multiple leads, including an attempt to solicit money from a relative via chat. The attack occurred around 02:00, inside the monk’s private quarters at the temple. Phra Maha Suphatin Theawonram, a senior monk aged 70, was found with deep lacerations across his face, torso, and arms, and had sustained burns to over half of his body after being set alight. Initial reports suggested the use of a box cutter, but during a crime scene reconstruction later that evening, Phitsanu confessed to using a cleaver-style knife in the attack. Still visibly angry, the suspect told police he had long harboured resentment towards the monk, who he claimed repeatedly made irritating remarks. In a rage, he allegedly forced open the door to the monk’s quarters, slashed him repeatedly with the knife, then returned to his motorbike to retrieve a petrol-soaked cloth, which he used to ignite the monk’s robes before fleeing. CCTV and witness reports helped authorities trace Phitsanu to a self-service fuel station in the Muang Pho area, where he had added 40 baht of petrol to his motorcycle. At the time of his arrest, the suspect showed no remorse and continued to express anger toward the monk. During questioning, Phitsanu denied his earlier claim that the monk owed him 2 million baht, a story he had repeatedly told local residents and his own father. The claim, which referenced a non-existent appearance on a TV quiz programme, was dismissed as delusional by his father, Mr Khian, a former village headman, who noted his child had suffered from mental health issues for over a year. Village officials and locals further allege that Phitsanu is a habitual user of methamphetamines, which may have played a role in the violent outburst. However, police have not yet confirmed whether drugs were involved, and have stated that further testing and interrogation will be conducted. Superintendent Pol. Col. Jakkrit Srisunthon of Huai Rat Police Station said charges of attempted murder and illegal possession of a weapon have been filed. Investigators are also examining whether mental health or substance abuse were contributing factors. As of now, Phra Suphatin remains hospitalised in serious condition and has been unable to give a statement. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod. -- 2025-04-21

Fire Parcel Bursts into Flames During Delivery, Authorities Warn of Heat & Poor-Quality Goods Picture courtesy of Mono 29. A delivery worker in Prachantakham district, Prachinburi province, experienced a shocking incident when a parcel in his delivery bag suddenly caught fire while he was en route on a motorbike. The blaze is believed to have been caused by excessive heat combined with substandard product quality. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358302-parcel-bursts-into-flames-during-delivery-authorities-warn-of-heat-poor-quality-goods/

Picture courtesy of Mono 29. A delivery worker in Prachantakham district, Prachinburi province, experienced a shocking incident when a parcel in his delivery bag suddenly caught fire while he was en route on a motorbike. The blaze is believed to have been caused by excessive heat combined with substandard product quality. Video footage of the incident, shared on social media by a Facebook user, showed smoke billowing from the delivery bag. The driver is seen quickly responding to the emergency, using a bottle of water to douse the flames. The parcel had apparently contained two portable air coolers, which ignited and burned through the delivery bag. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The video, which lasts just over one minute, was captioned: “The weather’s hot and the product’s rubbish, be careful out there. #ToughDeliveryExpress.” The clip has since gained attention online and sparked discussions around product safety in extreme weather conditions. According to the warehouse manager, the items were on their way back to the depot after the intended recipient had refused to accept the delivery. The incident occurred during the return journey. A formal report has been filed with local authorities, and the damaged goods will be returned to their original sender. The company has issued a warning to customers during the hot season to be cautious when ordering electrical items, particularly those prone to overheating. Authorities also advise vendors to ensure that products meet safety standards before shipping, especially during the scorching summer months. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Mono 29. -- 2025-04-21

Volunteer Paramilitary Officer Arrested for Fatal Stabbing During Songkran Festival in Trang Picture courtesy of CIB. A volunteer paramilitary soldier has been arrested following a fatal stabbing at a Songkran festival event in Trang province. Officers from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), under the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), apprehended the suspect, identified only as Mr Benjaphong, on charges of murder and carrying a weapon in public without valid reason. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358300-volunteer-paramilitary-officer-arrested-for-fatal-stabbing-during-songkran-festival-in-trang/

Picture courtesy of CIB. A volunteer paramilitary soldier has been arrested following a fatal stabbing at a Songkran festival event in Trang province. Officers from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), under the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), apprehended the suspect, identified only as Mr Benjaphong, on charges of murder and carrying a weapon in public without valid reason. The arrest took place on Khuan Khon Road in the Thap Thiang subdistrict of Mueang Trang district. The case stems from an altercation that occurred during the “Charm of Maha Songkran” event, held at Trang Stadium in the Khao Kob subdistrict of Huai Yot district. According to police reports, a violent clash broke out between groups of youths at the festival. During the altercation, Mr Benjaphong, reportedly a volunteer in a paramilitary ranger unit, engaged in a physical fight with the victim. The suspect allegedly used a knife to stab the victim multiple times in the chest, torso, and right arm, resulting in critical injuries that led to the victim’s death shortly thereafter. Mr Benjaphong then fled the scene. Officers from Division 6 of the CSD launched an investigation, eventually identifying Mr Benjaphong as the main suspect. With sufficient evidence, the Trang Provincial Court issued a warrant for his arrest. In a coordinated effort, the suspect’s relatives and commanding officers reached out to authorities and arranged for Mr Benjaphong to surrender. Officers from Division 6 of the CSD subsequently took him into custody and transferred him to Huai Yot Police Station for formal prosecution. The arrest operation was carried out under the direction of Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Phuridech, Commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau, alongside senior officers including Pol. Maj. Gen. Wittaya Sriprasertphap and Pol. Col. Anusorn Thongsai, head of Division 6. The team was led on the ground by Pol. Lt. Col. Montri Songkhong and officers from the same division. Legal proceedings are now underway as Mr Benjaphong faces serious criminal charges under Sections 288 and 371 of Thailand’s Penal Code. Adapted by ASEAN Now from CIB. -- 2025-04-21

Woman Narrowly Escapes Cobra Hidden Under Motorbike Seat Picture courtesy of PPTV A 32-year-old woman had a terrifying brush with death when she discovered a cobra hiding under the seat of her motorbike as she was on her way to work. The incident, which occurred on 18 April, has since gone viral on social media, with many users asking for the vehicle’s registration number in the hopes of using it for lottery predictions. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358298-woman-narrowly-escapes-cobra-hidden-under-motorbike-seat/

Picture courtesy of PPTV A 32-year-old woman had a terrifying brush with death when she discovered a cobra hiding under the seat of her motorbike as she was on her way to work. The incident, which occurred on 18 April, has since gone viral on social media, with many users asking for the vehicle’s registration number in the hopes of using it for lottery predictions. The woman, Ms Naree Kareuan, a sales assistant at a bubble tea shop, shared a video of the incident on her Facebook account under the name “Rieksi Nuengja”. The footage shows her initial panic and the rescue efforts that followed. She recounted that while preparing to store her helmet beneath the seat of her Honda Wave 125 motorbike, she suddenly came into contact with a creature hiding inside, only to realise it was a cobra attempting to strike. “I almost died,” she wrote in her post. “Opened the seat and found an uninvited passenger trying to strike me, thank goodness it missed. I banged the seat closed. Still shaking!” The incident happened at around 06:00 near the Big C department store in Mueang Kamphaeng Phet. Ms Naree had briefly stopped at a convenience store before making the chilling discovery. After slamming the seat shut, she immediately called for help from bystanders and local rescue volunteers. At first, it was unclear what species the snake was, but it was later identified as a cobra. It reportedly took more than two hours to capture the snake, which had slithered into the motorbike’s engine and chain guard. Ms Naree stated that she had never encountered such a situation before. Following the incident, online users flooded the comment section of her post, not only to express concern but also to ask for the motorbike’s registration number, hoping to use it as a lucky number in the upcoming lottery draw. Ms Naree revealed the plate and added with a smile that she too might try her luck. “If anyone wants to use the number, I don’t mind,” she said. “Maybe something good can come out of such a scary experience.” Adapted by ASEAN Now from PPTV. -- 2025-04-21

Third Time Unlucky: Authorities Intercept Pickup Truck Smuggling Nine Chinese Nationals Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Military and administrative officials have arrested nine Chinese nationals being smuggled into Thailand illegally via pickup truck, after intercepting the vehicle during a routine patrol in a high-risk border area. The driver, a Thai national, admitted this was his third such attempt, having previously succeeded twice without being caught. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358296-third-time-unlucky-authorities-intercept-pickup-truck-smuggling-nine-chinese-nationals/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Military and administrative officials have arrested nine Chinese nationals being smuggled into Thailand illegally via pickup truck, after intercepting the vehicle during a routine patrol in a high-risk border area. The driver, a Thai national, admitted this was his third such attempt, having previously succeeded twice without being caught. The joint operation was carried out by a long-range patrol unit from the Naresuan Task Force in collaboration with local administrative officers from Wang Chao District. While patrolling a route frequently used for illegal activities, officials stopped a suspicious pickup truck travelling along the Tha Thong Daeng–Pha Phueng road in Chiang Thong subdistrict. Upon inspection, nine Chinese individuals were discovered crammed into the back of the vehicle, eight men and one woman. Some were found without valid travel documents. During questioning, the suspect confessed that he had previously smuggled Chinese nationals into Thailand on two occasions without incident. He stated he was to be paid 300 baht per person for this latest operation. According to authorities, the Chinese nationals had been working in Myanmar and were attempting to return to China via Thailand. Their journey was cut short by the patrol team before they could proceed further. All ten individuals, nine Chinese and one Thai, were handed over to Wang Chao Police Station for legal processing. The case is now under formal investigation, with potential charges including illegal entry, aiding and abetting unlawful immigration, and transport of undocumented individuals. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod. -- 2025-04-21

Jealous Ex-Boyfriend Kills Former Partner in Brutal Knife Attack Picture courtesy of Matichon. A case of jealous rage unfolded in Bangkok late at night, when a man stabbed his former girlfriend to death in a violent assault after discovering her with her new partner. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358295-jealous-ex-boyfriend-kills-former-partner-in-brutal-knife-attack/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A case of jealous rage unfolded in Bangkok late at night, when a man stabbed his former girlfriend to death in a violent assault after discovering her with her new partner. Police from Wat Phraya Krai Station were alerted to the scene at around 23.00 on 19 April. The incident occurred at a fourth-floor apartment in Soi Sutprasert 2/1, Bang Khlo subdistrict, Bang Kho Laem district. Officers arrived alongside forensic experts, volunteer rescue workers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation, and a medical examiner. At the scene, police discovered the lifeless body of a 28-year-old woman, later identified as Ms Natthacha, lying in a pool of blood near the rear balcony. Bloody footprints suggested she had tried to flee toward the balcony in a desperate bid to escape. An examination of the body revealed more than 12 stab wounds, six to the left arm, four to the chest, and two to the left hip. Shockingly, the suspect, 29-year-old Mr Panudet, also known as “Kee”, was found sitting beside the body, crying and waiting to surrender to police. Mr Natthawut, 24, the victim’s current boyfriend, explained that he had visited his girlfriend’s apartment to collect a cake and was preparing to leave when the incident occurred. According to his account, the ex-boyfriend began knocking at the door for 10–20 minutes before breaking it down. He allegedly punched Mr Natthawut before rushing at the victim. “I ran downstairs to get help from friends because I suspected he had a weapon,” Mr Natthawut told police. “When I returned, I found her lying on the floor, barely breathing.” Tragically, she died at the scene shortly afterward. The motive behind the attack is believed to be jealousy, as Ms Natthacha had ended the relationship with Mr Panudet and refused reconciliation. Police have taken Mr Panudet into custody along with the weapon, a one-foot-long pointed kitchen knife and he is now facing legal proceedings. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Matichon. -- 2025-04-21

Village Headman Goes on Rampage, Rams Campaign Team with Car & Attacks with Wooden Stick Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A shocking incident unfolded in Chiang Mai province during a municipal election campaign when a village headman lost his temper, drove his car into a campaign assistant and then attacked members of the election team with a wooden stick. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358294-village-headman-goes-on-rampage-rams-campaign-team-with-car-attacks-with-wooden-stick/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A shocking incident unfolded in Chiang Mai province during a municipal election campaign when a village headman lost his temper, drove his car into a campaign assistant and then attacked members of the election team with a wooden stick. The incident occurred on the evening of 19 April, in the Tha Duea community of San Phi Suea subdistrict, Mueang District, Chiang Mai. The headman of Village 6, Tha Duea, reportedly rammed his vehicle into a campaign assistant working for Mr. Pawit Boonchala, a candidate for mayor of the San Phi Suea Subdistrict Municipality. Following the crash, the headman allegedly exited the vehicle wielding a wooden stick, shouting obscenities, and physically attacking members of the campaign team, including a candidate for the municipal council, as well as local residents. Several individuals were injured and had to be taken to hospital for treatment. Mr. Pawit recounted the incident, stating that his team was canvassing in the village around 17:45, coinciding with a traditional water-pouring ceremony for elders taking place at the headman’s residence. He claimed they heard the headman broadcasting through the village PA system, ordering them to stop their campaign activities. Despite this, Mr. Pawit maintained that his team was conducting their campaign lawfully and without causing any disturbance. Moments later, the headman allegedly drove his vehicle directly into one of the team members and followed up the assault by striking people with a stick. Mr. Pawit stressed that there had been no prior conflict between him and the headman. Video footage captured during the incident showed residents attempting to intervene and calm the situation, but their efforts were unsuccessful. The campaign team refrained from retaliating at any point. The injured individuals were taken to hospital, and a formal police complaint has been filed against the headman. Local residents speculate that the violent outburst may have been politically motivated, although investigations are ongoing. This incident has stirred widespread concern among voters and raised questions about political tensions in the lead-up to local elections. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod. -- 2025-04-21

Thief Robs Temple Donation Boxes During Monk’s Absence in Khon Kaen Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A brazen thief took advantage of a monk’s absence on a religious errand to rob multiple donation boxes at a well-known temple in Khon Kaen, using flypaper glue to extract money through the slots. Local authorities are now intensifying efforts to track down the suspect, who was caught on CCTV calmly committing the theft. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358293-thief-robs-temple-donation-boxes-during-monk’s-absence-in-khon-kaen/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A brazen thief took advantage of a monk’s absence on a religious errand to rob multiple donation boxes at a well-known temple in Khon Kaen, using flypaper glue to extract money through the slots. Local authorities are now intensifying efforts to track down the suspect, who was caught on CCTV calmly committing the theft. The incident took place at Wat Pa Saeng Arun in Phra Lap subdistrict, Mueang Khon Kaen District. Images from the temple’s CCTV system were circulated widely on social media, particularly via the “Focuskhonkaen” Facebook page. The footage shows a man wearing a blue long-sleeved shirt and black trousers entering the temple’s ordination hall during daylight hours. After offering a brief bow before the principal Buddha image, the man walked over to six donation boxes placed on the right-hand side of the hall. Using an unknown tool and a mobile phone flashlight, he proceeded to extract the money from each box before calmly exiting the building. Reporters who visited the scene met with Mr. Nitath Boonprom, village head of Moo 9, Ban Loeng Pueay, and local police investigators from Phra Lap Substation and Khon Kaen City Police Station. Forensic officers also inspected the site. All six donation boxes showed traces of sticky insect glue near the coin slots, indicating a premeditated method of theft. Mr. Nitath explained that the theft occurred during the day, a time when the hall is usually closed and monks are often away for religious duties. The thief appeared to have known this routine, allowing him to carry out the robbery undisturbed. “A monk mentioned that traces of glue and a fly trap bottle had previously been found near the boxes, but no one suspected anything at the time,” Mr. Nitath said. “Only later, during the evening prayers, did someone notice the glue on the boxes and review the CCTV footage.” Although the man is not believed to be a local resident, people associated with the temple noted that he had been seen lurking around the premises on multiple occasions in the past. Authorities are now urging the public to help identify the suspect and appealing for donations to fund additional CCTV cameras for the temple. In the meantime, local police, administrative officials, and village defence volunteers have increased patrols in and around the temple grounds to ensure security throughout the day and night. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod. -- 2025-04-21

Fierce Blaze Destroys Home in Ayutthaya, Pets Perish in Flames A devastating fire erupted late on the evening of April 19 in the Wang Noi district of Ayutthaya province, reducing a single-storey home to ashes and killing numerous cats and dogs trapped inside. The heartbroken homeowner reportedly attempted to rush into the flames to save his animals but was held back by rescue personnel. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358292-fierce-blaze-destroys-home-in-ayutthaya-pets-perish-in-flames/

Pictured from responders. A devastating fire erupted late on the evening of April 19 in the Wang Noi district of Ayutthaya province, reducing a single-storey home to ashes and killing numerous cats and dogs trapped inside. The heartbroken homeowner reportedly attempted to rush into the flames to save his animals but was held back by rescue personnel. The blaze broke out at approximately 22:30, in Lam Ta Sao subdistrict. Police Lieutenant Phuriwat Pansrikaeng of Wang Noi Police Station was alerted to the incident and immediately dispatched to the scene, accompanied by fire engines from the Lam Ta Sao municipal fire service, local emergency responders, and rescue volunteers from the Phutthaisawan Foundation. Upon arrival, the house was already engulfed in flames. The property, a concrete home in a housing estate, was surrounded by piles of accumulated rubbish. Strong winds contributed to the rapid spread of the fire, making it difficult to contain. Firefighters battled the inferno for over 50 minutes before finally bringing it under control. By that time, the house had been completely destroyed. Three cats were found dead from burns and smoke inhalation, and several dogs also perished in the fire. Rescuers managed to save around 10 cats during the chaos. The owner, identified as 40-year-old Mr Thanapon, sustained minor burns while trying to rescue his pets. He was reportedly distraught and had to be restrained from running into the burning structure. Mr Thanapon told authorities that the house had previously belonged to him but had since been repossessed. He had been allowed to remain there temporarily and earned a living by collecting and sorting rubbish for resale. The electricity had been cut off some time ago, leaving him without power. The grounds around the house were strewn with waste material, which may have contributed to the intensity and spread of the fire. He stated that he had gone out to buy supplies and returned to find the property in flames. The cause of the fire remains unknown. Local police have coordinated with forensic investigators from Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya to examine the site and determine the exact cause of the blaze. Investigations are ongoing in accordance with legal procedures. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khaosod. -- 2025-04-21

Canadian Man Arrested for Running Illegal E-Scooter Rental Business on Koh Phangan Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 34-year-old Canadian man has been arrested on the island of Koh Phangan for illegally operating an electric scooter rental business, authorities confirmed on 20 April. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358291-canadian-man-arrested-for-running-illegal-e-scooter-rental-business-on-koh-phangan/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 34-year-old Canadian man has been arrested on the island of Koh Phangan for illegally operating an electric scooter rental business, authorities confirmed on 20 April. Acting on a tip-off from a tourist, officers from Koh Phangan Tourist Police raided a property in the Sri Thanu area (Moo 8, Koh Phangan subdistrict), where they found 15 unregistered electric scooters being rented out to tourists. The man, referred to by police only as Mr A, was arrested at the scene. Officials stated that Mr A was working without a legal permit and had been running the rental business in violation of the law. Surveillance revealed a steady stream of foreign tourists entering and exiting the premises, often paying cash to rent the vehicles directly from Mr A. The shop operated under the name “DREAM”, with online services promoted as “3 Wheel Scooter Rentals Phangan.” Mr A later confessed during questioning that he was on a tourist visa and knew he was not permitted to work in Thailand. Nonetheless, he admitted to setting up the business and using a Thai-registered company, Dream Creative Co., Ltd., as a front to evade scrutiny. Rental rates were reported to be 600 baht per day, 2,900 baht per week, and 10,000 baht per month. In addition to the scooter rentals, Mr A also confessed to renting out villas and private accommodation on the island, though he admitted that the scooter rental business had proven more lucrative and had become his primary focus. Authorities seized all related assets and are pursuing further investigations into other potentially illegal business activities connected to the suspect. Mr A has been taken into custody and will face legal proceedings under Thai immigration and labour laws. Further action is being taken to identify any associates and to scrutinise linked businesses on the island. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Matichon. -- 2025-04-21

Pattaya Police Confirm Only 12 Tourists Pickpocketed During Wan Lai Festival Picture courtesy of Daily News. In response to widespread social media reports that dozens of tourists were targeted by pickpocket gangs during Pattaya’s Wan Lai Festival, local police have clarified that only 12 official complaints were filed over the celebrations. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358255-pattaya-police-confirm-only-12-tourists-pickpocketed-during-wan-lai-festival/