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2 Dead, 2 Seriously Injured in Fatal Collision Between Taxi and Lorry in Nakhon Ratchasima A devastating road crash early morning on 14 February, claimed the lives of two Cambodian nationals and left two other persons critically injured when a Bangkok-registered taxi collided with a lorry at the Nong Takai intersection, on Chok Chai-Dej Udom Road in Nong Boon Mak District, Nakhon Ratchasima. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351841-2-dead-2-seriously-injured-in-fatal-collision-between-taxi-and-lorry-in-nakhon-ratchasima/

Picture from responders A devastating road crash early morning on 14 February, claimed the lives of two Cambodian nationals and left two other persons critically injured when a Bangkok-registered taxi collided with a lorry at the Nong Takai intersection, on Chok Chai-Dej Udom Road in Nong Boon Mak District, Nakhon Ratchasima. The collision occurred at 06:05, prompting an immediate response from Nong Boon Mak Police Station, local rescue teams from Sawang Metta Thammasathan Foundation, and medical personnel from Nong Boon Mak Hospital. Upon arrival, responders discovered a green and yellow taxi severely crushed against the rear side of a trailer lorry (registration from Nakhon Ratchasima). The front of the taxi was completely destroyed, trapping four people inside. Rescue workers used hydraulic cutting tools to extract the victims, a process that took nearly an hour. The collision resulted in the deaths of Mr. So Son, 41, and Ms. Seam San, 47, both Cambodian nationals, who were found lifeless inside the wreckage. Their bodies were transported to Nong Boon Mak Hospital for further examination and to await family identification. Meanwhile, the taxi driver, Mr. Peerapol Sakulsri, 48, and another Cambodian passenger, Mr. Pov Thea, 22, suffered critical injuries. Both were transferred to Maharaj Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital for urgent medical treatment. According to police investigations, the three Cambodian passengers had hired the taxi from Bangkok, intending to travel to their hometowns in Siem Reap and Prey Veng, Cambodia, via the Chong Chom border checkpoint in Surin province. Preliminary findings suggest that as the lorry was turning right at the traffic light, the speeding taxi failed to stop and crashed violently into its rear. However, CCTV footage and witness statements are being reviewed to confirm the exact sequence of events. Authorities continue their investigation to determine whether driver error, mechanical failure, or other factors contributed to the collision. -- 2025-02-15

Valentine’s Day: Man Shoots Wife in the Head Before Taking His Own Life Valentine’s Day turns horrific in Buriram province when a man shot his wife in the head before taking his own life. Miraculously, the wife survived the attack. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351840-valentine’s-day-man-shoots-wife-in-the-head-before-taking-his-own-life/

Picture from responders. Valentine’s Day turns horrific in Buriram province when a man shot his wife in the head before taking his own life. Miraculously, the wife survived the attack. The incident occurred in a house in Moo 2, Tha Muang subdistrict, Satuek district. Police and emergency responders arrived to find the body of 55-year-old Sangwan lying in a pool of blood inside the bedroom. He had sustained a fatal gunshot wound to the head, with a firearm found nearby. The victim’s wife, 53-year-old Ratchanee, a government schoolteacher, had also been shot in the head but survived. She was rushed to Satuek Hospital for urgent medical treatment. According to Ratchanee’s mother, the argument began on 12 February when Sangwan wanted to go out drinking with friends. His wife refused, insisting he drink at home instead. This led to a heated dispute, with Sangwan forcing his wife to leave the house and sleep at her mothers. The situation escalated further on the morning of 14 February when Sangwan, armed with a gun, arrived at Ratchanee’s mother’s house. He smashed a window, prompting the elderly woman to alert the village headman for assistance. Village headman Sao, 53, rushed to mediate the conflict but was unable to calm Sangwan down. Within minutes, two gunshots rang out. Moments later, Ratchanee was seen coming out of the house, screaming for help. She had been shot in the head but was fortunate that the bullet had only grazed across her temple. Later, Ratchanee revealed that her husband had aimed the gun at her head. In a desperate act of survival, she pushed his hand away just as he fired. Believing he had killed her, Sangwan then turned the weapon on himself and took his own life. Authorities are continuing to investigate the case while Ratchanee receives medical care and psychological support. -- 2025-02-15

Emergency Services Successfully Rescue Woman from Suicide Attempt in Songkhla A middle-aged woman was safely rescued after attempting to jump from the Ha Yaek Nam Krachai Bridge in Songkhla province. The swift and coordinated efforts of emergency responders ensured that the woman was saved from harm, leaving local residents relieved. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351839-emergency-services-successfully-rescue-woman-from-suicide-attempt-in-songkhla/

Picture from responders. A middle-aged woman was safely rescued after attempting to jump from the Ha Yaek Nam Krachai Bridge in Songkhla province. The swift and coordinated efforts of emergency responders ensured that the woman was saved from harm, leaving local residents relieved. At approximately 16:30 on 13 February, Mr. Sumethee Sae Lao, an officer from the Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department of Phawong Municipality, received a distress call reporting that a woman was attempting to jump from the bridge. Acting immediately, Mr. Sae Lao, along with local police officers rushed to the scene. The incident occurred amidst a crowd of onlookers, who were left in shock at the woman’s actions. However, thanks to the quick response of the emergency services, the rescue operation was executed without any injuries. The woman climbed over the barrier and was about to jump when officers quickly intervened, grabbing and holding her to safely restrain her. She was then pulled to safety and taken into care for further support. “This successful rescue is a testament to the efficiency and professionalism of the emergency responders,” said Mr. Sae Lao. “We were able to act fast and prevent a tragic outcome, thanks to the teamwork of everyone involved.” Authorities are continuing to provide the woman with the necessary care and assistance, ensuring her well-being in the aftermath of the distressing situation. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai) or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress or depression. Seek out help. -- 2025-02-15

Massage Shop Raided on Valentine’s Day: Myanmar Women Arrested for Prostitution Police from Immigration Division 3 have raided a secret massage parlour in Nonthaburi, arresting Myanmar nationals for illegal sex work. The establishment, disguised as a massage parlour, had a thriving customer base and a hidden online network for illicit activities. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351838-massage-shop-raided-on-valentine’s-day-myanmar-women-arrested-for-prostitution/

Picture from raid. Police from Immigration Division 3 have raided a secret massage parlour in Nonthaburi, arresting Myanmar nationals for illegal sex work. The establishment, disguised as a massage parlour, had a thriving customer base and a hidden online network for illicit activities. Pol. Maj. Gen. Chairit Anurit, Commander of Immigration Division 3, received intelligence about a massage parlour covertly offering sexual services. The perpetrators were believed to be foreign nationals illegally providing massages and engaging in prostitution. Authorities discovered a private Telegram group used for sharing explicit images of the workers as part of an advertising scheme to attract customers. The group also served as a platform where previous customers could post “reviews” of their experiences. Following this information, Pol. Col. Jiraphong Rujiradamrongchai, Superintendent of Immigration Division 3, led a team of officers, including Pol. Lt. Col. Wichar Sanansilp, Pol. Lt. Col. Suriya Chaiyod, and other investigative officers, in a raid on the premises. The operation was conducted in cooperation with Rattanathibet Police Station, and officers were equipped with a search warrant issued by the Nonthaburi Provincial Court. An undercover officer entered the establishment and requested a massage. During the session, a Myanmar masseuse, identified only as Ms. Lemon 39, offered sexual services for 2,000 baht. Once sufficient evidence was gathered, the officer signalled for the raid to commence. The massage parlour, operating within a four-storey commercial building, was found to be a front for illegal sex services. Authorities seized evidence, including marked banknotes used in the sting operation, condoms, and lubricants found in Ms. Lemon’s possession. Another worker, Ms. Ying, was also found on the premises. She was an undocumented individual without a work permit, earning 100 baht per hour for massage services. Police arrested the owners, Ms. Kanom and Mr. Om-Yim, who also acted as administrators of the establishment’s online operations. Officers seized their mobile phones, which were used to manage customer bookings and distribute explicit images within their private Telegram group. Further searches of the premises uncovered a large stockpile of unused condoms, lubricants stored in the shop’s lockers, and used condoms discarded in massage rooms. During questioning, the suspects admitted to all charges. Ms. Lemon confessed to engaging in prostitution, while the owners acknowledged managing the business and being aware of the illicit activities. Pol. Maj. Gen. Chairit highlighted the case as a prime example of foreign nationals unlawfully working in restricted professions. Under Thai law, traditional massage services are reserved exclusively for Thai nationals. Despite this, the shop owners had employed illegal workers and facilitated sex work on their premises. The case also involved the illegal distribution of explicit material via social media, violating Thailand’s Computer Crimes Act. The arrested individuals face multiple charges, including violations of the Foreign Workers Act, the Prevention and Suppression of Prostitution Act, and the Computer Crimes Act. Authorities have vowed to intensify crackdowns on such operations, ensuring strict enforcement of all relevant laws to deter future violations. -- 2025-02-15

Crane Collapse at Ang Thong School Leaves One Student Injured Authorities in Ang Thong province are under pressure to implement stricter safety measures following a crane collapse at a school construction site that damaged a classroom while students were inside. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351837-crane-collapse-at-ang-thong-school-leaves-one-student-injured/

Picture from responders. Authorities in Ang Thong province are under pressure to implement stricter safety measures following a crane collapse at a school construction site that damaged a classroom while students were inside. The incident occurred on the afternoon of 13 February, when a large crane concrete, being used in the construction of a three-storey building at the school suddenly collapsed. The crane’s boom smashed into the school’s art classroom, causing cracks in the walls and part of the hoist crashing onto student desks. At the time of the accident, around 30 first-year students were attending a lesson in the classroom. Fortunately, only one student sustained minor injuries after being hit by flying debris. The injured student was taken to Ang Thong Hospital for treatment and was later discharged. When reporters visited the school, senior administrators were unavailable for comment due to a scheduled meeting. However, a senior teacher explained that the school had already instructed the construction company to prioritise safety, but described the collapse as an unforeseen accident. As an immediate precaution, all classes scheduled in the affected building have been relocated. Authorities have now ordered the construction supervisor to submit a full safety report, while the contractor will be held responsible for all damages. The incident has also been reported to the Secondary Education Service Area Office, which will review safety protocols. -- 2025-02-15

Elderly Man Miraculously Survives After Being Trapped Under Car A 70-year-old man in Uttaradit province has defied the odds by surviving a car crash with only minor scratches after being hit and trapped beneath an overturned vehicle. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351836-elderly-man-miraculously-survives-after-being-trapped-under-car/

Picture from responders. A 70-year-old man in Uttaradit province has defied the odds by surviving a car crash with only minor scratches after being hit and trapped beneath an overturned vehicle. The incident occurred on 13 February along Highway 1043 near Sri Phanommas Municipality in Laplae district. A white Toyota car crashed into the rear of a black Mitsubishi Mirage, which had slowed down to park at the roadside. The impact sent the Toyota careening forward, colliding with an unregistered Suzuki Akira motorcycle ridden by Mr. Pho Chanma, a 70-year-old resident of Ban Nari, Laplae district. The collision was so severe that both Mr. Pho and his motorcycle were pinned beneath the overturned car. Eyewitnesses rushed to his aid and were stunned to find that he had suffered only minor scratches and remained fully conscious. Remarkably, he did not require medical attention, after being pulled free. A large crowd gathered at the scene, struggling to comprehend how the elderly man had survived such an incident. After the initial shock, all parties involved in the crash managed to reach a mutual agreement regarding the incident. Recalling the moment, Mr. Pho explained that he had taken his motorcycle for repairs earlier that day, only to find the shop closed. As he was making his way home and slowing down to turn, the collision happened so suddenly that he had no time to react. “The next thing I knew, the car was on top of me, and people were pulling me out,” he said. Local residents attributed his survival to divine intervention, while Mr. Pho himself credited the protection of a sacred amulet. He had long kept a Luang Por Thong medallion from Wat Donsak, a revered temple in Laplae district, hanging from his motorcycle’s handlebars. The amulet, made of brass and consecrated in 2001, is believed to offer protection to its wearer. “I believe it was the amulet that kept me safe,” Mr. Pho said. “It’s truly a miracle.” -- 2025-02-15

Market Vendor Stabbed After Dispute Over Stall Placement Picture courtesy of Matichon. A shocking act of violence erupted in Si Khiu district of Nakhon Ratchasima, on the night of 13 February, when a poultry vendor, armed with a butcher’s knife, brutally attacked a fellow market trader in front of her daughter. The incident, which occurred outside a well-known shop in the local market, left the 47-year-old woman with severe injuries. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351835-market-vendor-stabbed-after-dispute-over-stall-placement/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A shocking act of violence erupted in Si Khiu district of Nakhon Ratchasima, on the night of 13 February, when a poultry vendor, armed with a butcher’s knife, brutally attacked a fellow market trader in front of her daughter. The incident, which occurred outside a well-known shop in the local market, left the 47-year-old woman with severe injuries. The attacker, identified as 54-year-old Mr. Songkram, was swiftly apprehended by police at the scene. Reports indicate that the altercation stemmed from a long-running dispute over stall placement, with Mr. Songkram accusing the victim, Ms. Sirinya, of encroaching on his space. According to witnesses, the argument between the two had escalated earlier in the day, prompting concerned bystanders to intervene. However, the situation took a horrifying turn when Mr. Songkram later pursued Ms. Sirinya as she rode her motorcycle with her daughter to buy groceries. The suspect allegedly kicked the motorcycle, causing the pair to crash, before launching a frenzied knife attack on Ms. Sirinya. Passersby watched in horror as the assailant repeatedly stabbed the woman, striking her back, face, and limbs. Her daughter managed to flee, seeking help, but onlookers were too afraid to intervene due to the suspect’s erratic and aggressive behaviour. Emergency responders rushed Ms. Sirinya to Si Khiu Hospital before transferring her to Maharaj Nakhon Ratchasima Hospital due to the severity of her injuries. Speaking to reporters, the victim’s 25-year-old daughter described the terrifying ordeal: “My mother tried to escape, but he chased us. When we fell, he attacked her with a knife. I begged for help, but no one dared step in because he looked intoxicated and violent.” Relatives of Ms. Sirinya have vowed to pursue legal action against the attacker, who is now facing attempted murder charges. A cousin of the victim revealed that Mr. Songkram had been drinking prior to the attack and had boasted about his past criminal record, claiming he was unafraid of returning to prison. Police have taken him into custody and are gathering evidence to proceed with legal action. -- 2025-02-15

Irish, Brazilian, Israeli Musicians Arrested in Pai for Working Without Permits Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Authorities have arrested four foreign musicians for performing without work permits at a restaurant in Pai, in Mae Hong Son province. The arrests come amid increasing concerns from local residents about the impact of foreign visitors on their community. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1351834-irish-brazilian-israeli-musicians-arrested-in-pai-for-working-without-permits/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Authorities have arrested four foreign musicians for performing without work permits at a restaurant in Pai, in Mae Hong Son province. The arrests come amid increasing concerns from local residents about the impact of foreign visitors on their community. A joint operation involving Immigration Police Region 5 Chiang Mai, Mae Hong Son Provincial Police, the Mae Hong Son Employment Office, and the Internal Security Command raided Jazz House Pai in Wiang Tai subdistrict on the evening of 13 February, shortly before 22:00. The raid followed reports that the venue regularly hosted unauthorised foreign performers. According to complaints, the restaurant frequently featured three foreign bands: • Walk the Dog 2 (7:00–8:00 PM) • Pink Fraud (8:00–9:30 PM) • Mizu and Branda (9:30–10:30 PM) During the raid, officers discovered four foreign musicians performing on stage. The suspects attempted to escape through the back of the venue but were quickly apprehended. The arrested individuals were identified as: • Mr Brian (Ireland, lead singer and guitarist) • Mr Matheus (Brazil, bass guitarist) • Mr Yishay (Israel, drummer) • Mr Shay (Israel, guitarist) All four were charged with working without valid permits and failing to report their employment details within the mandatory 15-day period. The venue owner is also facing charges for employing unauthorised foreign workers. This enforcement action follows a January meeting between the Mae Hong Son Immigration Office and Pai community leaders, during which residents raised concerns about the increasing number of unauthorised foreign workers and the impact on local tourism. Officials have encouraged residents to report suspected cases of illegal employment involving foreign nationals, with the exception of workers from neighbouring countries such as Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Local representatives have urged authorities to prioritise community well-being over purely economic considerations, expressing particular concerns about tourism activities that benefit business operators while disrupting local life. Immigration officials have pledged to address these issues in coordination with other relevant agencies. -- 2025-02-15

UPDATE Man, 32, Arrested for Fatal Shooting at Petrol Station After Hiding in Krabi A 32-year-old man wanted for the fatal shooting of a truck driver at a petrol station in Surat Thani has been arrested after fleeing to Krabi. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351833-man-32-arrested-for-fatal-shooting-at-petrol-station-after-hiding-in-krabi/

UPDATE Picture of arrest. A 32-year-old man wanted for the fatal shooting of a truck driver at a petrol station in Surat Thani has been arrested after fleeing to Krabi. At around 08:00 on 14 February, a team of investigators from Surat Thani police, along with officers from Khao Phanom Police Station in Krabi, apprehended Jakree, 32, at a small hut in a rubber plantation in Moo 7, Na Khao Subdistrict, Khao Phanom District, Krabi. He was wanted for the shooting of Aphirak Rakbuhnga at a petrol station on a bypass road in Makham Tia, Mueang Surat Thani. Aphirak later succumbed to his injuries at Surat Thani Hospital on 13 February. Following the shooting, Jakree fled the scene on a motorbike to a rented room in Khun Thale Subdistrict, where he hid the firearm in tall grass outside a row of rental units. He then called his father, who picked him up in a red Toyota Vios before they fled to Phanom District, Surat Thani. As police intensified their efforts to track him down, Jakree escaped again to Khao Phanom, Krabi, where his parents live. The Surat Thani Provincial Court subsequently issued a warrant for Jakree’s arrest on charges of murder, illegal possession of a firearm, and carrying a firearm in public without a valid reason. In the early hours of 14 February, a joint police force surrounded a house in Moo 7, Na Khao, Khao Phanom, belonging to Jakree’s parents. Officers found his father standing outside, while a legally registered 9mm handgun was discovered on a wooden shack in front of the house. Jakree’s mother was inside. As police questioned the father, he attempted to take photos of the officers and send them to Jakree as a warning. However, police intervened, confiscated the phone, and took him to lead them to Jakree’s hideout in the rubber plantation. There, officers found Jakree sitting inside the small hut and took him into custody. Police later recovered the firearm used in the shooting, along with a spent shell casing, from the grassy area outside Jakree’s rented room. He was then transferred to Surat Thani Police Station for legal proceedings. During interrogation, Jakree confessed to the crime, claiming that he had an ongoing dispute with the victim, who allegedly harassed him and openly expressed his dislike. The day before the shooting, the two had a heated argument. On the day of the incident, Jakree carried his gun in his shoulder bag as he went to work. At the petrol station, while sitting on his motorbike, Aphirak called him over. As he approached, Aphirak allegedly grabbed him by the neck and tried to pin him to the ground. Jakree retaliated by elbowing him, causing Aphirak to fall. He then took out his firearm, at which point Aphirak attempted to grab it. A struggle ensued, leading Jakree to fire a single shot into Aphirak’s abdomen before fleeing. Jakree is now in police custody and faces prosecution in accordance with the law. Related article: Fuel Tanker Drivers’ Brawl Ends in Fatal Shooting https://aseannow.com/topic/1351731-fuel-tanker-drivers’-brawl-ends-in-fatal-shooting/ -- 2025-02-15

Senior Female Army Officer Seriously Injured in Expressway Crash A senior female army officer was seriously injured after reportedly dozing off at the wheel, causing her vehicle to crash into a barrier on the Burapha Withi Expressway. The impact caused her car to flip, ejecting her onto the road. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351832-senior-female-army-officer-seriously-injured-in-expressway-crash/

Picture from responders. A senior female army officer was seriously injured after reportedly dozing off at the wheel, causing her vehicle to crash into a barrier on the Burapha Withi Expressway. The impact caused her car to flip, ejecting her onto the road. Police Lieutenant Sunriya Phumwat, an investigator at Bang Pakong Police Station in Chachoengsao province, received a report on 14 February, of the crash at kilometre marker 49+500 on the outbound lane of the expressway towards Bang Pakong toll gate. Upon arrival, officers discovered a damaged Mitsubishi Pajero blocking the left and middle lanes. Personal belongings were scattered across the road. Nearby, the driver, identified as Colonel Sutthathip Phan-iam, aged 50, from the Development Military Unit, was found lying unconscious on the road with severe injuries. Rescue teams provided emergency first aid before transporting her to Chularat 11 Hospital. A witness reported that the driver appeared to have fallen asleep while driving, causing the vehicle to veer off course and strike the expressway barrier before flipping over. The impact ejected her from the vehicle. Passersby rushed to assist before emergency responders arrived. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the exact cause of the crash. -- 2025-02-15

Motorcycle Bomb Explodes Outside Security Post, Injuring Seven A motorcycle bomb exploded outside a paramilitary ranger post in Waeng district, Narathiwat province, injuring seven people, including security personnel and local residents. The blast caused significant damage to the building’s structure and several parked motorcycles. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351831-motorcycle-bomb-explodes-outside-security-post-injuring-seven/

Pictures from responders. A motorcycle bomb exploded outside a paramilitary ranger post in Waeng district, Narathiwat province, injuring seven people, including security personnel and local residents. The blast caused significant damage to the building’s structure and several parked motorcycles. At approximately 19:00 on 14 February Police Colonel Heraman Chedee, Superintendent of Waeng Police Station, received a report of an explosion near the perimeter wall of the Volunteer Defence Corps Company. The attack took place 700 metres from Waeng Police Station. Officers and military personnel were immediately deployed to secure the area and assist the wounded. The force of the explosion destroyed a section of the perimeter wall and damaged several security personnel’s motorcycles. Parts of the building’s structure were also impacted by the blast. Emergency responders transported seven injured individuals to Waeng Hospital. Among them were three Volunteer Defence Corps (VDC) officers: • VDC Officer Muhamad Daniel Rusman • VDC Officer Anyan Awae • VDC Officer Mahusen Kariya Four civilians were also injured: • Asman Porsa • Pathavee Suwanchailert • Weena Suwanchailert • Pranee Chanphet Authorities suspect the attack was carried out by militants operating in the region. Earlier in the day, threatening messages targeting security forces had been painted on roads in Pattani province, warning officers to resign from their posts. Officials believe the explosion in Waeng was linked to these threats. Security forces are investigating the attack and have increased patrols in the area to prevent further incidents. In an Earlier Attack Militants Throw Grenade at Security Forces in Narathiwat, but Attack Fails A grenade attack on a local security outpost in Narathiwat province failed during the night of 13 February, after the explosive landed on the roof of a dormitory instead of hitting its intended target. The blast damaged several vehicles but, fortunately, caused no injuries. At around 19:55, two unidentified assailants on a motorcycle threw a hand grenade at the Tambon Protection Unit (Chor Kor Tor) base in Manang Tayor subdistrict. However, the grenade missed the target and landed on the roof of the dormitory before falling onto a parked Isuzu pickup truck, where it detonated. The explosion damaged the truck, three nearby motorcycles, and the dormitory’s walls, but no personnel were harmed. Authorities from Muang Narathiwat Police Station, explosive ordnance disposal units, and forensic investigators arrived at the scene on the morning of 14 February to assess the damage. They discovered grenade shrapnel scattered around the area, a trigger from the explosive, and a large impact hole near the truck’s front left tyre. According to an initial investigation, the attackers had approached the outpost from Rangae district and parked near the local health promotion hospital adjacent to the security base. As officers gathered inside the outpost for a routine assembly, one of the attackers dismounted and hurled the grenade towards them. However, the grenade struck the dormitory roof instead, causing an unintended detonation with the ground. The suspects immediately fled the scene, riding their motorcycle against traffic to escape. Security officials believe the attack was carried out by insurgents who have recently shifted tactics, replacing traditional pipe bombs with hand grenades. These smaller explosives are easier to conceal and transport, making them more difficult for authorities to detect. Investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. -- 2025-02-15

Fire Destroys Three Homes in Pattaya, Families Left With Nothing A fire swept through a residential area in Pattaya, Chonburi, on the afternoon of 14 February, reducing three homes to ashes and leaving families homeless. The fire, which is believed to have been caused by an electrical short circuit, broke out in a densely populated community behind the Pattaya Housing Estate on Thepprasit Soi 5, Pattaya. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351829-fire-destroys-three-homes-in-pattaya-families-left-with-nothing/

Picture from responders. A fire swept through a residential area in Pattaya, Chonburi, on the afternoon of 14 February, reducing three homes to ashes and leaving families homeless. The fire, which is believed to have been caused by an electrical short circuit, broke out in a densely populated community behind the Pattaya Housing Estate on Thepprasit Soi 5 in Pattaya, Bang Lamung District. The Pattaya City Disaster Relief Centre received the emergency call at 15:05 and immediately dispatched firefighters, police, and rescue personnel to the scene. Upon arrival, they found flames engulfing a cluster of wooden and metal construction homes, with thick black smoke billowing into the sky. Residents were quickly evacuated as firefighters battled to contain the blaze. Despite their efforts, the fire spread rapidly due to the wooden structures acting as fuel. Local volunteers also assisted by bringing water trucks to help extinguish the flames. After an hour of firefighting, authorities managed to bring the blaze under control, preventing it from spreading further. However, the damage was already severe, with three homes completely destroyed. A heart-wrenching scene unfolded as homeowners returned to find their belongings reduced to ashes. One resident, 34-year-old Ratri Nuyiam, was inconsolable upon seeing the remains of her home. She revealed that she was away when the fire started and had no idea what caused it. Her family, along with three others, had lived in the affected houses, leaving multiple families homeless. Police and forensic investigators were called in to examine the site and determine the exact cause of the fire. Initial assessments suggest that an electrical short circuit may have been to blame, though further investigations are ongoing. Authorities are now working with local organisations to provide emergency assistance to those affected, as residents struggle to come to terms with the devastating loss of their homes and possessions. -- 2025-02-15

Chinese Fraud Gang Arrested After Scamming Thai Elderly Woman of Gold and Cash Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A gang of Chinese fraudsters has been arrested in Yala after deceiving an elderly Thai woman into handing over a substantial amount of gold and cash in an elaborate scam. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351828-chinese-fraud-gang-arrested-after-scamming-thai-elderly-woman-of-gold-and-cash/