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Pattaya Night Run 2025 Draws 2,500 Runners in Vibrant Celebration Picture courtesy of Pattaya City Hall Pattaya on the evening of 22 June, saw a celebration of colour, music and energy as capacity 2,500 participants took part in the Pattaya Night Run 2025, a 5-kilometre run organised to boost sport tourism and celebrate diversity under the theme “COLORFUL PRIDE”. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364436-pattaya-night-run-2025-draws-2500-runners-in-vibrant-celebration/

Picture courtesy of Pattaya City Hall Pattaya on the evening of 21 June, saw a celebration of colour, music and energy as capacity 2,500 participants took part in the Pattaya Night Run 2025, a 5-kilometre run organised to boost sport tourism and celebrate diversity under the theme “COLORFUL PRIDE”. Held at Bali Hai Pier, the event was a collaborative effort between the Chonburi Provincial Office of Tourism and Sports, Pattaya City and various public, private and community sectors. The run aimed to position Pattaya as a premier destination for sport tourism in Thailand, stimulate the local economy, and promote inclusivity during Pride Month. The opening ceremony was presided over by Mr. Pongsathit Pichanan, Deputy Governor of Chonburi, with Mr. Poramet Ngampichet, Mayor of Pattaya, in attendance. They were joined by senior local officials, representatives from government agencies and the event’s organisers, as over two thousand Thai and international runners gathered in high spirits. The route was divided into five themed stations, each offering unique visual and interactive experiences: 1. Night Light Carnival – A nostalgic Thai fair complete with Ferris wheels, merry-go-rounds, and traditional game booths. 2. Vivid Pop – A tunnel of multi-coloured streamers lit by lasers and vibrant lighting effects. 3. Rainbow Heaven – A dazzling rainbow-lit section stretching over 20 metres, celebrating unity. 4. Groove and Glow – A lively zone filled with glowing animal-shaped installations, photo ops, live DJ sets and dance performances. 5. Joy with Smile – A cheerful tunnel of smiley faces leading runners into the final stretch before the finish line. The evening concluded with a high-energy concert by PROXIE, the popular T-POP group, which kept the celebratory atmosphere going long after the race ended. Organisers expressed their hopes that events like the Pattaya Night Run would not only enrich the city’s cultural and recreational offerings but also generate significant revenue for local hotels, restaurants and businesses. It is expected to contribute to Pattaya’s long-term vision of becoming a leading sport tourism centre in Thailand. This year’s edition successfully combined health, entertainment, diversity and community spirit, marking a significant step forward in Pattaya’s sustainable tourism journey. Adapted by ASEAN Now 2025-06-22

UPDATE Cambodia Hits Back: PM Hun Manet Orders Closure of Choam and Chup Koki Border Checkpoints in Retaliation Picture courtesy of Amarin. In a response to Thailand’s unilateral closure of the Chong Sai Taku checkpoint in Buri Ram province, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has ordered the immediate and permanent closure of two major border crossings, Choam and Chup Koki. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364414-2nd-army-region-commander-orders-closure-of-chong-sai-taku-border-trade-point-in-buriram/#findComment-19890045

UPDATE Cambodia Hits Back: PM Hun Manet Orders Closure of Choam and Chup Koki Border Checkpoints in Retaliation Picture courtesy of Amarin. In a response to Thailand’s unilateral closure of the Chong Sai Taku checkpoint in Buri Ram province, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has ordered the immediate and permanent closure of two major border crossings, Choam and Chup Koki. Speaking on the morning of 22 June, Hun Manet declared that Cambodia would not remain passive in the face of what he described as “unilateral pressure” from Thailand. The action was taken after the governor of Oddar Meanchey province reported that Thailand’s Second Army Region had decided to close the Chup Koki border post without prior consultation. “I agree fully with the response of the provincial governor. We will also shut the border checkpoint permanently,” said the Prime Minister. “I have also instructed that Thailand be formally notified of our decision to close both the Chup Koki and Choam crossings, effective immediately.” Hun Manet’s comments highlighted growing tensions between the two neighbours, citing that since 7 June 2025, the Thai military has repeatedly closed border crossings unilaterally. The Cambodian government, he insisted, has made no moves to inconvenience cross-border communities and workers, but is now compelled to respond in kind. He further criticised perceived inconsistencies in Thai governance, noting that while Thai political leaders, including the Prime Minister, have expressed a willingness to reopen border crossings through bilateral negotiations, the military continues to act independently by adjusting or suspending border operations at will. “I cannot say whether this is a coordinated strategy between the Thai government and military,” he said. “But it is clear that no coherent internal policy exists on the Thai side, one side calls for diplomacy while the other proceeds unilaterally.” In contrast, Hun Manet emphasised Cambodia’s internal unity, stating that all levels of authority, from the national leadership to frontline officials and the military, act in concert and strictly follow national directives. Reaffirming Cambodia’s stance, the Prime Minister dismissed the need for bilateral negotiations, stating that if Thailand genuinely wishes to reopen the borders, it can do so immediately by reversing its unilateral closures. “Should the Thai military reopen its checkpoints, Cambodia will follow suit and fully reopen within five hours,” he promised. “This is a simple matter with a straightforward solution,” Hun Manet concluded. “There is no need for drawn-out negotiations, only genuine political will from the Thai side.” The diplomatic standoff raises concerns over economic and social impacts on border communities that rely heavily on cross-border trade and travel. With tensions rising, observers await the next move from Bangkok. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Amarin 2025-06-22

Employee Flees Abroad After Embezzling ฿103 Million, Hires Hitmen to Silence Accomplice Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Police from Region 2 have recovered nearly 40 million baht in cash linked to a sensational case involving two female employees accused of stealing over 103 million baht from their employer and one fleeing the country. Shocking developments also reveal that one of the suspects allegedly hired hitmen to murder her accomplice in an attempt to silence her. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364432-employee-flees-abroad-after-embezzling-฿103-million-hires-hitmen-to-silence-accomplice/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Police from Region 2 have recovered nearly 40 million baht in cash linked to a sensational case involving two female employees accused of stealing over 103 million baht from their employer and one fleeing the country. Shocking developments also reveal that one of the suspects allegedly hired hitmen to murder her accomplice in an attempt to silence her. The case first came to light on 15 January 2025, when a private mining company filed a complaint with Si Racha Police Station in Chonburi. The company alleged that two accounting staff members, Ms Orasa and Ms Raweewan, had falsified invoices and purchase contracts to transfer approximately 103 million baht from the company to a bank account they had set up. The entire sum was then withdrawn in cash and the suspects subsequently vanished. Following an intensive investigation, arrest warrants were issued for both women. On 20 June, police conducted coordinated raids on a residence in Si Racha and a condominium in Lat Krabang, Bangkok, both linked to Mr Nattapol, the husband of Ms Raweewan. During the search, officers discovered 39,947,480 baht in cash hidden beneath a bed in the Lat Krabang condominium. Mr Nattapol admitted the money came from his wife and was part of the stolen funds. He claimed he had been asked to safeguard the cash without knowledge of the full extent of the crime. He is now being investigated for receiving stolen property. In a dramatic twist, Ms Orasa was recently found seriously injured in a resort in Mueang District, Chachoengsao, having been stabbed multiple times. Police investigations uncovered a murder-for-hire plot involving three individuals: Mr Jirasit, Mr Athiwat, and Ms Raweewan, who allegedly ordered the hit to prevent Ms Orasa from implicating her. Mr Jirasit and Mr Athiwat have since been arrested. Ms Raweewan, however, remains at large, having fled to Bahrain. Region 2 investigators continue to pursue the case, both in terms of capturing the fugitive and recovering further stolen assets. While the recovered cash represents only a portion of the total loss, authorities hope it will help alleviate some of the financial burden suffered by the affected company. Mr Nattapol will now face legal proceedings as police work to determine the extent of his involvement in the embezzlement and subsequent cover-up. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod 2025-06-22

Kidnap Report Leads to Discovery of Korean Loan Shark Gang in Pattaya Pictures courtesy of Khaosod What began as a high-stakes operation to rescue a South Korean national from an alleged kidnapping turned into the unmasking of an international loan shark syndicate operating out of a villa in Pattaya. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364418-kidnap-report-leads-to-discovery-of-korean-loan-shark-gang-in-pattaya/

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod What began as a high-stakes operation to rescue a South Korean national from an alleged kidnapping turned into the unmasking of an international loan shark syndicate operating out of a villa in Pattaya. At approximately 14.30 on 21 June, more than 50 officers from the Tourist Police Bureau and Bang Lamung Police Station stormed a two-storey detached house in Na Kluea, Bang Lamung district, following a request for urgent assistance from the South Korean Embassy. The embassy had reported that one of its citizens had been abducted and was being held at the premises. Upon arrival, officers surrounded the villa, which was equipped with surveillance cameras around the perimeter. When police identified themselves and demanded entry, chaos erupted inside. Over 20 South Korean men attempted to flee in panic. One suspect, identified only as Mr Jae, 30, leapt from the second-floor balcony in a desperate bid to escape, sustaining injuries upon impact. He was promptly taken to hospital. Three others were caught fleeing through the rear of the property. In total, 21 South Korean nationals and one Chinese man were apprehended. Once inside, police uncovered what appeared to be a technologically advanced criminal operation. The villa had been converted into a makeshift headquarters, with over 30 desktop computers and laptops, more than 40 mobile phones, two internet routers and a whiteboard covered in handwritten Korean. Forensic officers collected DNA and fingerprint evidence from the seized devices. Early investigations suggest that the suspects were conducting illegal money-lending activities targeting victims in South Korea, using internet-based calls and messaging platforms. The suspects admitted they operated the scheme via TP LINK systems and used the villa as their base of operations. Officers also discovered written scripts used for investment scams, some promising profits of up to 500 million Korean won (12 million baht) and so-called ‘romance scam’ templates designed to manipulate victims into transferring money under false pretences. Two of the individuals were found to have entered Thailand illegally. According to Senior Sergeant Major Tor-lap Tinamaat of the Tourist Police, evidence suggests that the group had previously operated along the Thai-Cambodian border and relocated to Pattaya in recent months, possibly due to increased law enforcement pressure in neighbouring areas. All suspects now face charges relating to participation in a criminal organisation, a charge in Thai law referred to as “ang yee” , as well as likely breaches of immigration and labour regulations. Local residents had long suspected illicit activity at the property. A 26-year-old neighbour, told police he had heard “frequent arguments, shouting and even sounds that resembled someone being tortured.” “I never knew what was really happening,” he said, “but today I saw men jumping into my garden and running in all directions. Then the police arrived.” The case has once again highlighted Thailand’s growing role as a base for international cybercrime and fraudulent enterprises. Authorities have pledged to intensify efforts to root out foreign criminal networks exploiting Thai soil. Police are in liaison with the South Korean Embassy on the kidnapping claim. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod 2025-06-22

2nd Army Region Commander Orders Closure of Chong Sai Taku Border Trade Point in Buriram Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a decisive move aimed at safeguarding national sovereignty and public safety, the Commander of The 2nd Army Region has ordered the immediate closure of the Chong Sai Taku border trade checkpoint in Chanthop Phat subdistrict, Ban Kruat district, Buriram province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364414-2nd-army-region-commander-orders-closure-of-chong-sai-taku-border-trade-point-in-buriram/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a decisive move aimed at safeguarding national sovereignty and public safety, the Commander of The 2nd Army Region has ordered the immediate closure of the Chong Sai Taku border trade checkpoint in Chanthop Phat subdistrict, Ban Kruat district, Buriram province. The directive, issued on 21 June 2025 under Army Region 2 Order No. 176/2568, follows an earlier special order by the Royal Thai Army (Order No. 806/2568) which grants authority to regional commands to regulate the opening and closure of all types of border crossings along the Thai-Cambodian border. The order empowers the Suranaree Task Force, operating under the 2nd Army Region, to manage these border points in accordance with the security requirements and strategic needs of the area. The military cited the protection of Thai sovereignty, the safety of local residents and the overall stability of the border region as the primary motivations for the closure. The Chong Sai Taku checkpoint has operated as a local trade facilitation point, serving cross-border commerce in the area. However, authorities have deemed its temporary shutdown necessary to maintain effective security operations. The order was signed by Lieutenant General Boonsin Phadklang, Commander of the 2nd Army Region, and takes effect from 21 June 2025 onwards. No specific date has been given for its reopening. Further announcements will be made based on ongoing assessments of the security situation in the area. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod 2025-06-22

Myanmar Worker Breaks Down in Tears During Russian Shisha Bar Raid on Koh Phangan Picture courtesy of Khaosod A Myanmar woman was moved to tears during a police raid on a cannabis shop illegally operating as a shisha bar on the popular tourist island of Koh Phangan, fearing deportation after being previously arrested by the same police unit. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364413-myanmar-worker-breaks-down-in-tears-during-russian-shisha-bar-raid-on-koh-phangan/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod A Myanmar woman was moved to tears during a police raid on a cannabis shop illegally operating as a shisha bar on the popular tourist island of Koh Phangan, fearing deportation after being previously arrested by the same police unit. Tourist police conducted the raid on the evening of 19 June, at an establishment located in the Pantip Market area, following complaints that the venue was discreetly serving hookah to foreign tourists, in violation of the law. Two Myanmar nationals, Sandar, 41 and Thandar, 28, were found working at the premises during the operation. Both women held valid passports and work permits as general labourers, valid until 31 March 2026. Sandar broke down in tears during the inspection, visibly distressed at the prospect of being deported. She had reportedly been arrested by the same tourist police unit in the past and was overwhelmed by the possibility of history repeating itself. Officers were seen consoling her before continuing their inquiry. According to her testimony, Sandar had been employed at the shop for four months, earning 3,000 baht per week. Her responsibilities included lighting charcoal for the hookahs, preparing shisha mixtures, serving water and food to customers, and cleaning the premises. Thandar stated she worked as a cashier, handling customer orders and daily transactions. She added that shisha pricing varied depending on flavour and quantity and admitted she had never met the Russian national who owns the business. Instead, she transferred the day’s earnings, ranging between 10,000 to 15,000 baht, to his account each evening. Both women were charged with working outside the legal scope of their permits, which were designated for general labour rather than service or retail roles. They also face charges related to the sale of goods that had not undergone customs clearance. During the raid, police confiscated the following items as evidence: • 23 packets of shisha liquid • 5 cans of shisha liquid • 8 rectangular cans of shisha liquid • 7 hookah machines • 13 hookah hoses The two workers have been handed over to investigators. Police confirmed that they are preparing to bring formal charges against the Russian owner of the establishment for further prosecution. The raid is part of a wider crackdown on unauthorised shisha and tobacco sales on Thai islands. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod 2025-06-22

Baby Boy Found Dead in Rayong Apartment Picture courtesy of Naewna A three-month-old baby boy was found dead in a rented room in Pluak Daeng district, Rayong, in a case that has left family members devastated and police investigating the exact cause of death. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364412-baby-boy-found-dead-in-rayong-apartment/

Picture courtesy of Naewna A three-month-old baby boy was found dead in a rented room in Pluak Daeng district, Rayong, in a case that has left family members devastated and police investigating the exact cause of death. Pol. Lt. Col. Wanchai Chaiya, investigative officer at Pluak Daeng Police Station, responded to the scene at a workers’ accommodation in Map Yang Phon sub-district, accompanied by a forensics team and local rescue workers. The child was found lying unresponsive on a bed, with a milk bottle nearby. The room’s air conditioning was still running and there were no signs of struggle or physical injury on the infant’s body. Initial assessments suggested the baby had been dead for several hours. His body was sent for autopsy to determine the precise cause of death. The baby’s 33-year-old aunt, who has cared for him since birth, was visibly distraught and close to collapse as she recounted the events to police. She explained that both of the child’s parents are currently incarcerated and she had been working to support and raise him alone. That morning, she left for work as usual, leaving the baby sleeping in the room. Upon returning home, she discovered his lifeless body. Local rescue officer Weera Tummavichit said his team had initially received a report that the child may have choked on milk. However, by the time they arrived, the baby had already died. Police have launched a full investigation and will be questioning the aunt in more detail to clarify the circumstances. Authorities stressed that, at this stage, no foul play is suspected, but a forensic examination is essential to establish the cause of death conclusively. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Naewna 2025-06-22

Gunfire at Border as Officials Clash with Labour Smuggling Gang Picture courtesy of Amarin. Tensions flared in the early hours of the morning of 21 June, when security forces clashed with a group smuggling Thai workers across the border into Cambodia. A lookout was injured in the gunfire and nearly 20 people were arrested as they attempted to cross the border illegally near Ban Saensuk, a natural crossing point close to the Thai-Cambodian frontier. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1364411-gunfire-at-border-as-officials-clash-with-labour-smuggling-gang/

Picture courtesy of Amarin. Tensions flared in the early hours of the morning of 21 June, when security forces clashed with a group smuggling Thai workers across the border into Cambodia. A lookout was injured in the gunfire and nearly 20 people were arrested as they attempted to cross the border illegally near Ban Saensuk, a natural crossing point close to the Thai-Cambodian frontier. The incident occurred at approximately 00:30, when military personnel from the Burapha Task Force, working in coordination with local police from Khlong Nam Sai Police Station, intercepted a convoy suspected of trafficking Thai labourers into Poipet, Cambodia. The operation was part of a broader security crackdown launched on 17 June following government orders to halt all illegal movement of Thai nationals seeking work in Cambodian casinos and entertainment venues. Authorities believe that smugglers, reacting to the tightened controls, have increasingly turned to unofficial and dangerous border routes. Security teams had been conducting surveillance in high-risk zones when they detected movement from a group of vehicles, believed to include at least three or four sedans and pickup trucks, dropping off workers near the border. During the interception, one man, later identified as 37-year-old Mr. Krai Jantha, attempted to obstruct officials and create an escape path for the smugglers. Officers opened fire with a rifle, wounding him in the left side of the torso with three bullets lodged internally. Emergency responders from Aranyaprathet Foundation transported him to Aranyaprathet Hospital for urgent medical treatment. Authorities estimate that more than 30 individuals were involved in the illegal crossing attempt. Nearly 20 were detained along with their luggage and personal belongings. The remainder fled into the night under the cover of darkness amid the chaos. Following the incident, village leaders, subdistrict officials, and local defence volunteers arrived to support the operation. All those apprehended were transferred to Khlong Nam Sai Police Station, where legal proceedings are now underway. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Amarin 2025-06-22

SRT Closes 112 Illegal Railway Crossings in Nationwide Safety Drive Picture courtesy of NBT The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has closed 112 unauthorised railway crossings across the country as part of an ongoing campaign to improve rail safety and prevent accidents. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364410-srt-closes-112-illegal-railway-crossings-in-nationwide-safety-drive/

Picture courtesy of NBT The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has closed 112 unauthorised railway crossings across the country as part of an ongoing campaign to improve rail safety and prevent accidents. Mr. Veerish Amrapal, Governor of the SRT, announced that efforts to eliminate so-called “illegal crossings” , which pose a significant safety risk, are progressing steadily. A total of 793 unauthorised crossings have been identified nationwide across 43 provinces. So far, 112 of these have been closed and 63 have been fully restored to their original track condition. In the 2024 fiscal year, 105 crossings were shut down, with 7 more completed in 2025. The breakdown of the 112 closures is as follows: • Central region: 80 crossings in 8 provinces — Bangkok, Kanchanaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Prachin Buri, Rayong, Ratchaburi, and Samut Sakhon. • Northern region: 9 crossings in Nakhon Sawan, Phichit, and Sukhothai. • Northeastern region: 8 crossings in Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Lopburi, Si Sa Ket, and Saraburi. • Southern region: 15 crossings in Chumphon, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Phatthalung, and Surat Thani. The remaining 681 unauthorised crossings are currently under review by provincial and district-level screening subcommittees. The SRT has set an ambitious goal of reducing accidents at railway crossings to zero. A key part of this strategy involves raising public awareness about the dangers of using unauthorised routes and encouraging use of only official crossings, which are equipped with standardised barriers and warning systems. “We appeal to all citizens to avoid unauthorised crossings and instead use designated points that are properly monitored and controlled,” Mr. Veerish said. “It’s a matter of safeguarding your own life and property.” The SRT’s campaign comes amid ongoing efforts to modernise and expand the railway infrastructure, where safety remains a top priority. Adapted by ASEAN Now from NBT 2025-06-22

Police Arrest 3 in Bangkok Over Drug-Laced E-Cigarettes Linked to Chinese Syndicate Picture courtesy of Matichon Metropolitan Police officers have arrested three Thai nationals allegedly involved in selling e-cigarettes laced with narcotics, popularly known as “pot k”, following a tip-off from concerned citizens. The suspects reportedly admitted they had been taught by a Chinese individual how to mix drugs into e-cigarette liquids before distributing them online. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364409-police-arrest-3-in-bangkok-over-drug-laced-e-cigarettes-linked-to-chinese-syndicate/

Picture courtesy of Matichon Metropolitan Police officers have arrested three Thai nationals allegedly involved in selling e-cigarettes laced with narcotics, popularly known as “pot k”, following a tip-off from concerned citizens. The suspects reportedly admitted they had been taught by a Chinese individual how to mix drugs into e-cigarette liquids before distributing them online. The operation, led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Siam Boonsom, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, along with senior narcotics and investigative officers, resulted in the arrest of Ms. Netnapa 37, Mr. Thanakorn 46 and Mr. Pratchaya 33. They were apprehended in separate locations across Bangkok’s Bueng Kum and Bang Khen districts on the night of 20 June. Police seized 70 pods of RELX-brand e-liquid, 15 sheets of flavour-label stickers, and assorted equipment related to the refilling and sale of electronic cigarettes. The arrest was made after Ms. Netnapa was spotted acting suspiciously in Soi Prasert-Manukit 37. Officers found the contraband in a patterned plastic bag she was carrying. A preliminary field test using the Marquis Reagent yielded a brown result, indicating a possible presence of methamphetamine in the liquid. Further testing in a laboratory is pending to confirm the substance. Further investigation led officers to a residence in the Tharaeng subdistrict, where Mr. Thanakorn and Mr. Pratchaya were found. Additional e-cigarette liquid and paraphernalia were confiscated. All three suspects admitted the materials were theirs and claimed to have received guidance from a Chinese national who instructed them in mixing illicit substances into the vape liquids. They then bottled and distributed the products via online channels. In a concerning revelation, the suspects also admitted to facilitating currency exchanges for Chinese clients, earning commissions on the conversion, prompting authorities to investigate possible links to transnational call-centre scams or other organised crime rings. Ms. Netnapa faces charges for: 1. Violating the Consumer Protection Board Order No. 9/2558 by selling banned disposable e-cigarettes and refill liquids. 2. Concealing or distributing prohibited imports under Section 246 of the 2017 Customs Act. All three suspects are jointly charged with: 1. Breaching the Consumer Protection Board’s ban on e-cigarettes and related refills. 2. Possessing and distributing goods they should have known were illegal imports, in violation of the Customs Act. The suspects, along with all seized items, were handed over to investigators at Khok Khram Police Station for further legal proceedings. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Matichon 2025-06-22

Man Shoots Neighbours After Noise Complaint in Chumphon Picture courtesy of Daily News. Police in Chumphon Province are urgently hunting a man who shot his neighbours, a husband and wife, after they complained about loud music coming from his room. Both victims were left critically injured, with the suspect fleeing the scene in a grey Mitsubishi pickup truck. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364408-man-shoots-neighbours-after-noise-complaint-in-chumphon/

Picture courtesy of Daily News. Police in Chumphon Province are urgently hunting a man who shot his neighbours, a husband and wife, after they complained about loud music coming from his room. Both victims were left critically injured, with the suspect fleeing the scene in a grey Mitsubishi pickup truck. The incident occurred at a rented single-storey concrete building consisting of four rooms in Village 8, Wang Phai Subdistrict, Mueang District, Chumphon Province. Pol. Lt. Amphon Nuchanong of Mueang Chumphon Police Station received the emergency call and reported to Pol. Col. Panya Thuamsee, the station superintendent, before rushing to the scene with local volunteer officers. There, officers found Mr. Surapoj lying outside his room with a gunshot wound to the neck. Nearby, his wife Ms. Jirawanron was found unconscious in a pool of blood, having been shot in the head. Both were rushed to hospital in critical condition. Initial investigations revealed that the attacker, identified as Mr. Sarit, was a neighbouring tenant. He had parked his vehicle and began playing music at high volume. When Mr. Surapoj confronted him and asked that the music be turned down, Sarit allegedly became enraged, retrieved a firearm and shot him. When Ms. Jirawanron emerged to assist her husband, she was also shot. The suspect then fled in a grey Mitsubishi pickup truck bearing the license plate ขก 1123 Udon Thani. Police are currently pursuing the fugitive and have vowed to bring him to justice as quickly as possible. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-06-22

Falling Tree Crushes Pickup Truck in Surat Thani, 1 Dead, 2 Injured Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A incident occurred on the afternoon of 20 June when a large royal poinciana tree (commonly known as a flame tree) collapsed onto a moving pickup truck, killing the driver and injuring two passengers. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1364407-falling-tree-crushes-pickup-truck-in-surat-thani-1-dead-2-injured/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A incident occurred on the afternoon of 20 June when a large royal poinciana tree (commonly known as a flame tree) collapsed onto a moving pickup truck, killing the driver and injuring two passengers. The incident took place at around 16:00 on Soi Koteng in Moo 8, Wat Pradu Subdistrict, Mueang District, Surat Thani Province. Officers from the Tha Koob Community Police Service, along with rescue teams from the Kusolsattha Surat Thani Foundation, were dispatched to the scene equipped with hydraulic cutting tools and chainsaws. Upon arrival, emergency crews found a Toyota Vigo four-door pickup severely damaged by the fallen tree. The massive trunk had landed squarely across the roof of the passenger cabin, crushing it and trapping all three occupants inside. The driver, Mr. Watthasin, 32, was found unconscious and unresponsive. Two passengers, Mr. Soda, 77, who sustained a torn wound to his left arm and Ms. Krisana 65, who suffered abrasions and head injuries, were also trapped in the wreckage. All three were extricated and rushed to Surat Thani Hospital, where Mr. Watthasin was pronounced dead. According to the preliminary investigation, the pickup had been travelling normally when, without warning, the large flame tree standing by the roadside suddenly toppled, crashing directly onto the vehicle. The exact cause of the tree’s collapse remains under investigation by local authorities. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod 2025-06-22

Fake Police Inspector Arrested for Extorting Over 2,000 Victims Picture courtesy of Daily News. A man posing as a senior police inspector has been arrested along with his partner after allegedly extorting money from more than 2,000 victims, including Thai business owners and foreign residents, by falsely claiming to represent various police units. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364406-fake-police-inspector-arrested-for-extorting-over-2000-victims/