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Boy Rescued After Being Sucked Into Drainpipe While Fishing in Canal Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 13-year-old boy had a narrow escape after being partially sucked into a large drainage pipe while fishing in a canal with his friends in Phitsanulok province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360282-boy-rescued-after-being-sucked-into-drainpipe-while-fishing-in-canal/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 13-year-old boy had a narrow escape after being partially sucked into a large drainage pipe while fishing in a canal with his friends in Phitsanulok province. The incident occurred in the evening of 8 May, when the boy and five of his friends were casting nets to catch fish. According to reports, the boy stepped near the mouth of a large drainage pipe beneath the canal and was suddenly pulled in by the water. His lower body became trapped inside the pipe, leaving him unable to free himself. His friends immediately screamed for help while clinging to his upper body, refusing to let go. Rescue workers from the Khaw Phap Rescue Association were alerted by a good Samaritan and rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, they found the boy’s lower half lodged inside the pipe, with his friends still holding on to him desperately. Rescuers quickly tied a rope around the boy and worked together to pull him free from the pipe. After a tense struggle, the team successfully extracted him without an serious injuries. He sustained abrasions to his torso and waist but was otherwise safe. Bamrung Panmee, one of the rescue officials, said the pipe in question lies beneath the canal and has a diameter of approximately 80 centimetres. He explained that the water likely pulled the boy in after he accidentally stepped too close while casting his net. The quick actions of the boy’s friends and the prompt response by the rescue team were credited with preventing a potentially tragic outcome. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-10.

Thai Actor ‘Dong-Deng’ in ICU Following Serious Motorway Crash in Nakhon Ratchasima Picture courtesy of Matichon. Thai actor Nattawut Saenyabut, widely known by his stage name “Dong-Deng”, was in intensive care following a dramatic road crash in the early hours of the morning of 9 May, on the M6 motorway in Nakhon Ratchasima. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360281-thai-actor-‘dong-deng’-in-icu-following-serious-motorway-crash-in-nakhon-ratchasima/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Thai actor Nattawut Saenyabut, widely known by his stage name “Dong-Deng”, was in intensive care following a dramatic road crash in the early hours of the morning of 9 May, on the M6 motorway in Nakhon Ratchasima. The 28-year-old star of Thibaan The Series sustained severe injuries after the white Toyota Fortuner he was travelling in plunged from an overpass bridge, near kilometre markers 154–155 in Si Khiu district. The incident was reported at approximately 03:45, by the Phrommatham Rescue Centre, which dispatched emergency responders to the scene. Rescue workers found three male victims at the crash site, all of whom were injured but initially conscious. First aid was administered at the scene before the men were transported to Si Khiu Hospital for further treatment. Dong-Deng, who portrayed the character “Jalod” in the popular Thibaanfranchise and was nominated for Best Actor at the 27th Suphannahong National Film Awards, was later transferred to Maharat Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital for emergency surgery. Medical staff reported that he had suffered a fractured hip, broken ribs, a punctured lung, and a ruptured bladder. He remained overnight, in the intensive care unit on the 6th floor of the Somdet Phra Theppharat Building, where his condition is being closely monitored. Further details released by rescue officials identified the other two injured individuals as Thanin, 25, the driver, from Surin province, who suffered chest pain and a right leg injury, and Sarin, 31, from Roi Et, who sustained bruising and sprains. Both men were conscious and received treatment at Si Khiu Hospital. According to Pol. Lt. Col. Somkiat Najaroen, the investigating officer from Si Khiu Police Station, the driver admitted he had dozed off at the wheel due to fatigue while en route to Bangkok, which caused the vehicle to veer off the motorway ramp and crash down onto the ground below. The crash left the vehicle overturned and severely damaged, particularly at the front end. Police have confirmed that an investigation into the exact cause of the accident is ongoing. Fans and colleagues in the entertainment industry continue to post messages of support online, hoping for Dong-Deng’s full recovery. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-10.

Suphan Buri Abbot Removed Following Allegations of Financial Mismanagement Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The chief monk of Suphan Buri province has formally removed the abbot of a well-known temple after a wave of complaints from local residents, accusing him of serious financial mismanagement and failure to maintain the temple’s infrastructure. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360280-suphan-buri-abbot-removed-following-allegations-of-financial-mismanagement/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The chief monk of Suphan Buri province has formally removed the abbot of a well-known temple after a wave of complaints from local residents, accusing him of serious financial mismanagement and failure to maintain the temple’s infrastructure. On 8 May, around 50 villagers from Moo 9 and Moo 13 in Taphluang subdistrict, Nong Ya Sai district, gathered at Khong Bor Rae Temple to demand the removal of Phra Khru Samuh Chaturaphat Tissaro. They claimed that despite years of fundraising and donation drives, there had been no progress on restoring or maintaining the temple. Instead, the temple had accumulated debts amounting to several million baht. Tensions escalated when approximately 50 supporters of the abbot also arrived, leading to a heated confrontation between the two groups. District officials, led by Nong Ya Sai District Chief Ms. Sarawadee Sonphueak and local police, were deployed to de-escalate the situation. According to an official announcement issued by the provincial monastic council on 7 May (Order No. 1/2568), Phra Khru Samuh Chaturaphat was found to be unfit for his position. Investigations revealed that the abbot had authorised the demolition of key temple structures such as the ordination hall and sermon pavilion, while continuously soliciting donations through fundraising campaigns and online appeals, yet failed to show any tangible results. The report also noted that he neglected multiple requests to meet with provincial clergy representatives, further fuelling suspicions about his conduct. A special inquiry panel at the subdistrict and district levels supported the recommendation to strip him of his title. One local villager, Mr. Uad, who was among those calling for the abbot’s removal, said: “We have filed numerous complaints. He caused massive debt and allowed the temple to fall into ruin. Now that he has been officially dismissed, we want him out of the temple tonight.” In contrast, Ms. Auat, 65, who came to support the abbot, described him as a devoted monk who had always worked for the temple’s development. “I’ve always donated here and never saw anything wrong. Forcing him out like this isn’t fair,” she said. The matter was ultimately resolved after hours of negotiation involving local officials, monks, and Phra Khru Kasemsuwankhun, the acting abbot and subdistrict ecclesiastical head. It was agreed that Phra Khru Samuh Chaturaphat would vacate the temple within five days, allowing tempers to cool and both groups of villagers to disperse peacefully. The situation highlights growing scrutiny over temple finances and accountability, particularly in cases where community trust has been eroded by long-standing grievances. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-05-10.

Man Drowns While Fleeing Police Raid in Nakhon Si Thammarat Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 31-year-old man drowned after jumping into a canal to flee a police raid in Nakhon Si Thammarat province on the morning of the 9 May, in an incident that unfolded in full view of officers. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360279-man-drowns-while-fleeing-police-raid-in nakhon-si-thammarat/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 31-year-old man drowned after jumping into a canal to flee a police raid in Nakhon Si Thammarat province on the morning of the 9 May, in an incident that unfolded in full view of officers. At approximately 06:30, Pol. Lt. Col. Monchit Phengkaew, Deputy Superintendent of Investigation at Chalerm Phra Kiat Police Station, led a team of officers to serve a court-issued search warrant at a residence in the Suan Luang subdistrict, acting on intelligence that the house may have been involved in illegal activities. Upon seeing the officers arrive with the warrant, issued by the Pak Phanang Provincial Court on 8 May, the resident, later identified as Mr. Suwit, panicked and fled the property. He ran from the house and leapt into a nearby canal, attempting to swim away despite police urging him to come ashore. Mr. Suwit appeared to lose strength while swimming and slipped beneath the water. Officers immediately called in divers from the Sae Tek Tung Foundation, who recovered his body. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators have since contacted the local hospital for a formal autopsy and informed the deceased’s family. According to police, the raid was prompted by reports of illegal items being stored at the property. After gathering sufficient evidence, they obtained a warrant to search the premises. The man’s sudden attempt to escape led to the fatal outcome, casting a shadow over the operation. The investigation into the initial cause for the raid is ongoing. Authorities have yet to confirm whether any illegal materials were found at the home. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-05-10.

Motorcycle Mechanic Shot Dead in Bangkok Following Dispute Over Vehicle Pawn Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 28-year-old motorcycle mechanic was gunned down at his repair shop in Bangkok’s Suan Luang district in the early hours of 9 May, while a relative sustained injuries in the attack. The incident is believed to be linked to a dispute over a pawned motorcycle. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360278-motorcycle-mechanic-shot-dead-in-bangkok-following-dispute-over-vehicle-pawn/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 28-year-old motorcycle mechanic was gunned down at his repair shop in Bangkok’s Suan Luang district in the early hours of 9 May, while a relative sustained injuries in the attack. The incident is believed to be linked to a dispute over a pawned motorcycle. Police were called to the scene on Soi Phatthanakan 32 around 01:00. Officers from Khlong Tan Police Station, forensic investigators, a medical examiner from Chulalongkorn Hospital, and rescue volunteers arrived to find the lifeless body of Mr Sukiplee Makeh inside his shop. Mr Sukiplee, dressed in black trousers and shirtless, had been shot five times, once in the head, three times in the torso, and once in the ankle. He was found lying on his back in a pool of blood. A second man, Mr Adul Makeh, 33, the victim’s relative, suffered a graze wound to the neck and was rushed to Vibhavadi Hospital for treatment. Investigators recovered five spent .32 calibre shell casings scattered on the ground outside the shop. According to witness statements, at approximately 21:00 on 8 May, a group of over 10 young men on multiple motorcycles arrived at the shop. They had previously clashed with Mr Adul over a pawned motorcycle. Mr Sukiplee attempted to mediate the dispute, but the situation remained unresolved. The group left, reportedly warning they would return. Later that night, Mr Sukiplee phoned a close friend to explain the altercation and was advised to be cautious. Around midnight, the assailants returned, called out for the victim, and opened fire as he approached, fatally wounding him. The victim’s mother revealed that the conflict stemmed from a motorcycle Mr Adul had taken in pawn. The vehicle was later repossessed by a finance company due to missed payments by the original owner, which reportedly triggered the ongoing dispute. Police are now reviewing CCTV footage from the area and interviewing witnesses to identify the attackers and bring them to justice. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-05-10.

UPDATE Hospital Yet to Respond After Man Bitten by Venomous Snake Sent Home, Now in Coma Picture courtesy of Amarin. A hospital in Rayong province is under scrutiny for allegedly sending home a young man bitten by a highly venomous snake, who later fell into a coma. The hospital has yet to issue any formal explanation regarding its handling of the case. The incident came to light after a Facebook user shared a post recounting the ordeal of an 18-year-old employee, Mr. Sutat, who was bitten by a Malayan krait, a species recognised as one of Thailand’s seven medically significant venomous snakes. According to Mr. Kik, the 42-year-old employer of the victim, the bite occurred around 01:00, on 7 May while the young man was at his residence in a rubber plantation hut in Phlong Ta Iam subdistrict, Wang Chan district. He was immediately taken to a local hospital in the area for treatment. Mr. Kik reported that hospital staff conducted tests and concluded that no venom was found in the victim’s blood. The case was deemed “not serious,” and the young man was prescribed only paracetamol and antibiotics before being discharged. However, just a few hours later, around 08:00, the victim’s condition deteriorated rapidly. He struggled to breathe, experienced convulsions, and showed signs of respiratory failure, prompting his employer to rush him to a provincial hospital. There, the patient was placed on a ventilator and given two doses of antivenom. His condition remains serious but stable. Despite the widespread attention the case has received online, the original hospital has yet to issue a statement or contact the patient’s family. Mr. Kik stated that the priority now is to ensure the patient’s survival and recovery. A hospital explanation, he said, can wait. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-09.

Pattaya Authorities Launch “Operation Coconut Ghosts” to Crack Down on Foreign Prostitution Picture courtesy of SiamChon. A joint operation involving over 50 officers from multiple agencies was carried out along Pattaya Beach last night in a targeted crackdown on foreign nationals allegedly soliciting tourists for prostitution. Dubbed “Operation Coconut Ghosts”. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360189-pattaya-authorities-launch-“operation-coconut-ghosts”-to-crack-down-on-foreign-prostitution/

Picture courtesy of SiamChon. A joint operation involving over 50 officers from multiple agencies was carried out along Pattaya Beach last night in a targeted crackdown on foreign nationals allegedly soliciting tourists for prostitution. Dubbed “Operation Coconut Ghosts”. Led by Pol. Lt. Col. Torlap Tinamat, Superintendent of Tourist Police Sub-Division 4, Division 2, and supported by officers from Pattaya Tourist Police, Pattaya Police Station, Chonburi Immigration Bureau, the Chonburi Office of Social Development and Human Security, and Pattaya City officials, the operation focused on foreign individuals suspected of approaching tourists under the pretext of offering sexual services. According to authorities, suspects were observed loitering beneath coconut trees along the beachfront, a common area for such activities. Undercover officers monitored their behaviour, documenting incidents where they initiated conversations, attempted to befriend tourists, and offered services in exchange for money. Thirteen individuals were detained in the operation, seven from Uzbekistan and six from Uganda. Some were found to be on expired student visas or had overstayed their legal permission to remain in Thailand. Initial charges include violations of Section 5 of Thai law, which prohibits soliciting, recommending, following, or harassing others in public for the purpose of prostitution. Two individuals were also charged with remaining in the Kingdom without valid permission. All suspects were taken to Pattaya Police Station for further investigation and legal proceedings. Authorities plan to revoke their permission to stay and initiate deportation. Pol. Lt. Col. Tinamat stated that the crackdown was part of a national directive from Police Commissioner-General Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanpet, aimed at bolstering safety in tourist areas and curbing crimes. The operation also followed instructions from Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phuak-arm, Commissioner of the Tourist Police Bureau, who has urged all units to adopt proactive enforcement measures across key tourist destinations. Tinamat said. “Maintaining safety and a positive image is a top priority. We will continue proactive operations in collaboration with all relevant agencies to ensure Pattaya remains clean, safe, and welcoming to everyone.” Adapted by Asean Now from SiamChon 2025-05-09.

Polish Tourist Drowns While Swimming at Kamala Beach Picture courtesy of Phuketinsta A Polish tourist has drowned while swimming off Kamala Beach in Phuket, according to reports from local authorities. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360188-polish-tourist-drowns-while-swimming-at-kamala-beach/

Picture courtesy of Phuketinsta A Polish tourist has drowned while swimming off Kamala Beach in Phuket, according to reports from local authorities. The victim, identified only as 36-year-old Piotr, was discovered in the sea near Kamala Beach, in the vicinity of Village No. 3 and the local cemetery. The incident was reported to Kamala Police Station shortly after 13:00 on 8 May. According to a statement by the duty doctor, the body was recovered from the water by the public and local life guards. Piotr had been holidaying in Phuket with two friends and is believed to have entered the sea alone shortly before the incident occurred. He was later found floating unresponsive and pulled from the water, but declared dead at the scene. Police have confirmed that the cause of death was drowning and that there were no signs of foul play or physical assault. The deceased’s family has been informed. Piotr’s friends are currently coordinating with the Polish Embassy and his relatives to organise the repatriation of his body. Authorities issued a reminder to all visitors and residents to exercise caution when swimming, especially in unfamiliar waters, as strong currents and changing sea conditions can pose serious risks. Adapted by Asean Now from Phuketinsta 2025-05-09.

Man in Coma After Hospital Dismisses Venomous Snake Bite as ‘Non-Emergency’ Picture courtesy of Matichon. A man is in a coma after allegedly being misdiagnosed and prematurely discharged from a hospital, following a venomous snake bite. Family members are accusing medical staff of negligence and questioning the hospital’s triage procedures. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360187-man-in-coma-after-hospital-dismisses-venomous-snake-bite-as-‘non-emergency’/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A man is in a coma after allegedly being misdiagnosed and prematurely discharged from a hospital, following a venomous snake bite. Family members are accusing medical staff of negligence and questioning the hospital’s triage procedures. The incident was brought to public attention via a Facebook post from an acquaintance of the victim, who recounted how the man was bitten by a snake at around 01:00. Upon arriving at the hospital, doctors conducted a blood test and concluded that there was no venom present, prescribing only paracetamol and antibiotics. The family was told the case was not serious and that the man could return home. The doctor reportedly advised the man’s mother to bring him back to the hospital at 9:00. However, before that time, the victim’s condition deteriorated rapidly, he became non-verbal, experienced respiratory distress, and was unable to open his eyes or move his tongue. He was rushed back to the hospital, where a second blood test revealed the presence of venom. Doctors then confirmed that he had been bitten by a bungarus candidus, known locally as a “tub samingkhla” snake or Malayan krait, one of the most venomous species in Thailand. Family members criticised the hospital for failing to act urgently, despite clear signs of a venomous bite, and condemned the lack of appropriate antivenom treatment in the initial visit. “This kind of negligence is unacceptable. Every life has value, and no one should be treated as less important,” the Facebook post read. Experts describe the bungarus candidus as a highly dangerous species, identifiable by its black-and-white banded body. Although the bite may be painless or barely noticeable, the neurotoxic venom can quickly lead to respiratory failure and death, especially if the victim is bitten while asleep and unaware of the injury. Medical professionals warn that immediate medical attention and antivenom are crucial for survival following a bite from this snake. The delay in treatment can result in severe complications, including coma or death. The hospital involved has not yet issued a public statement regarding the incident. Calls are growing for an official investigation and a review of emergency care protocols to prevent similar cases in the future. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-09.

Schoolboy Fatally Stabbed in Nakhon Si Thammarat Following Dispute at Wedding Celebration Pictured courtesy of SiamNews. A 14-year-old schoolboy has died and another is in critical condition following a violent altercation between students at a local wedding celebration in Chian Yai District, southern Thailand. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360185-schoolboy-fatally-stabbed-in-nakhon-si-thammarat-following-dispute-at-wedding-celebration/

Pictured courtesy of SiamNews. A 14-year-old schoolboy has died and another is in critical condition following a violent altercation between students at a local wedding celebration in Chian Yai District, southern Thailand. Police from Karaket Police Station were alerted by staff at Chian Yai Hospital that a boy had died after being brought in with stab wounds. Officers rushed to the scene, where they confirmed the death of Surasak (nickname: F), a Matthayom 1 student. He had been stabbed twice in the chest. According to the police investigation, Surasak had attended a live music performance at a wedding reception held at Wat Tha Lipong Schoolalongside two school friends: Jirapan (Palm) and Surachet (Sun), all aged 14. During the festivities, the trio became involved in a heated dispute with another group of boys, including Pannawit (Win), a 14-year-old Matthayom 2 student from the same school, Natthanayothin (Pap), aged 14, Chaiyawat (Nice), aged 12, and an older male, Suchart (Kings), aged 22. While the initial altercation during the music performance was broken up without serious incident, tensions simmered. After the music ended, the two groups met behind the school hall near the toilets, purportedly to “settle” their disagreement. Witnesses reported that a verbal exchange quickly escalated into violence. The two central figures, Surasak and Pannawit, engaged in a physical fight, during which both reportedly pulled out short knives. Each was stabbed twice in the chest during the confrontation. In the chaos, Jirapan also sustained minor knife injuries. Local residents intervened and rushed the injured to nearby hospitals. Surasak and Jirapan were taken to Chian Yai Hospital, while Pannawit was transported to Chaloem Phra Kiat Hospital in the neighbouring district. Sadly, Surasak succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival, unable to survive the severity of the chest wounds. Investigators later inspected the scene of the incident, discovering signs of a struggle, including large amounts of blood outside the toilet area and beside a temporary storage building. Meanwhile, Pannawit remains in critical condition due to serious internal injuries and blood loss. He was transferred from Chaloem Phra Kiat Hospital to Maharaj Nakhon Si Thammarat Hospital for urgent treatment. Police are continuing their investigation and are expected to take further legal action following medical recovery and forensic results. Adapted by Asean Now from SiamNews 2025-05-09.

15-Year-Old Boy Drowns While Swimming with Friends During School Holidays Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A 15-year-old boy has drowned after swimming with a group of friends at a weir in Nong Phak Pang, Phu Khiao District, during the ongoing school holidays. This marks the second fatal drowning of a child in the province in recent weeks, prompting officials to call for stricter parental supervision. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360184-15-year-old-boy-drowns-while-swimming-with-friends-during-school-holidays/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A 15-year-old boy has drowned after swimming with a group of friends at a weir in Nong Phak Pang, Phu Khiao District, during the ongoing school holidays. This marks the second fatal drowning of a child in the province in recent weeks, prompting officials to call for stricter parental supervision. The incident occurred around 16:00 on 7 May, when police from Phu Khiao Police Station and rescue volunteers from the Sawang Kunatham Chaiyaphum Foundation were alerted to the disappearance of a teenager who had been swept underwater while swimming in the overflow weir. A total of five boys, all students on their school break, had reportedly gone swimming together. According to reports, the 15-year-old victim was suddenly pulled under in front of his friends, who screamed for help from nearby residents. Rescue teams from both Phu Khiao and nearby Kaeng Khro districts were mobilised to search the weir. After more than two hours of underwater searching, the boy’s body was recovered just before 18:00. His body was handed over to his family for religious rites. The weir where the drowning occurred is known for its treacherous conditions, with water depths ranging from 1 metre at the edges to over 25 metres at the centre. This marks the second child drowning in Chaiyaphum province during the current school holiday period, following a similar incident in Thep Sathit District earlier this month. In response, provincial authorities have issued renewed warnings to all village and community leaders to closely monitor children during the school break. Parents are being urged to supervise their children and discourage unsupervised swimming, especially in natural water bodies. “Every year during the school holidays, we see a tragic rise in drowning incidents involving children,” a provincial spokesperson said. “We implore all parents and guardians to keep a close eye on their children and strictly prohibit them from swimming alone or without adult supervision.” Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-05-09.

Police Arrest Social Media Star for Running Explicit Content Network Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A 19-year-old woman with a massive social media following has been arrested for operating a network selling explicit video clips online, earning up to 90,000 baht per month. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360183-police-arrest-social-media-star-for-running-explicit-content-network/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A 19-year-old woman with a massive social media following has been arrested for operating a network selling explicit video clips online, earning up to 90,000 baht per month. Miss Kanpharawi was arrested at her residence by officers from the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) under a warrant issued by the Criminal Court on 2 May 2025. She is charged with “importing obscene content into a computer system accessible by the public,” in violation of Thailand’s Computer Crime Act. Police allege that the woman was behind several accounts on the X platform (formerly Twitter), including a popular one under the name “JINJIA”, which featured sexually explicit content involving various male partners. She is also accused of running private subscription groupswhere the videos were sold. During interrogation, the suspect admitted to producing and distributing the clips herself. She told officers that she gained a large following and then profited by selling access to exclusive content. The account with the highest following had over 300,000 followers, she revealed, and although it was later sold, the income from her video sales reached between 70,000 to 90,000 baht per month. Authorities have taken her into custody and will proceed with legal action in accordance with cybercrime laws. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-05-09.

Monk Found Dead in Monastic Cell with Plastic Bag Over Head and Pillow on Face Picture courtesy of Matichon. Police are investigating the mysterious death of a 70-year-old Buddhist monk whose body was found in his monastic quarters with a black plastic bag over his head, secured with a five-coloured sacred thread, and a pillow pressed against his face. The monk’s family has expressed serious doubts over the circumstances of his death. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360182-monk-found-dead-in-monastic-cell-with-plastic-bag-over-head-and-pillow-on-face/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Police are investigating the mysterious death of a 70-year-old Buddhist monk whose body was found in his monastic quarters with a black plastic bag over his head, secured with a five-coloured sacred thread, and a pillow pressed against his face. The monk’s family has expressed serious doubts over the circumstances of his death. The deceased, Phra Bunman Santajitto, had been a monk for over two decades. His body was discovered beneath the main ordination hall of Wat Phraya Yat (Pak Ngam) in Amphawa District, where living quarters had been constructed for monks. He was found lying on his back, still wearing his saffron robes, with one arm across his abdomen and the other by his side. However, authorities noted: a plastic bag covering his head, tied tightly with a sacred string (sai sin), and a pillow covering his face. There were no signs of a struggle, and no property was missing from the room. Pol Lt Col Khomsan Promsiri, the investigating officer from Amphawa Police Station, along with local forensic officers and Dr Sitthichok Jitthiwong, Director of Amphawa Hospital, were present at the scene. The monk’s body was later transferred to Ratchaburi Hospital’s Forensic Department for a detailed autopsy to determine the cause of death. Grieving relatives, including Mrs Phanthip, the monk’s 72-year-old sister, and her daughter, were at the scene. Mrs Phanthip broke down in tears, embracing her brother’s body and urging him to “come home with us.” She told reporters that Phra Bunman had recently recovered from a series of serious health conditions, including lymphatic cancer and a strokethat had left his left side weakened. He had been treated and subsequently returned to the monastery earlier this year. Due to lingering health concerns, he was granted permission to install an air conditioner in his monastic cell. Mrs Phanthip refuted suggestions that her brother had taken his own life due to illness. “If he had wanted to die from being sick, he would have done it long ago, not now that he’s recovering,” she said. She added that her brother had been under psychological stress since his return to the temple, alleging that he had been harassed and bullied by another monk. According to her, after the air conditioner was installed, one monk had mocked Phra Bunman to devotees, claiming the monk was wealthy and didn’t need donations. Later, the compressor was sabotaged with a wooden stick, disabling the air conditioning. Despite repeated repairs, the system remained unreliable. Phra Bunman reportedly asked, “Will they mess with it again?” in conversation with his sister. Mrs Phanthip expressed anger and suspicion, saying she wanted answers: “If that monk caused my brother’s death by pushing him to the edge, I want to know. And if he has any remorse, he should come and pay his respects.” Pol Col Phichayatom Kosum, chief of Amphawa Police, confirmed that initial investigations found no signs of forced entry or violence. While suicide is a possible explanation, he stressed that investigators were not ruling out foul play. Forensic evidence and autopsy results will be used to establish the cause of death and address public concerns. The investigation is ongoing. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-09.