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Shocking Discovery at Temple: Missing Deputy Abbot Found Dead Beneath Crematorium Pictured courtesy of Khoasod. A local undertaker was left stunned after discovering the decomposed body of a missing monk beneath a crematorium while preparing for a funeral at a temple in Ang Thong province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358236-shocking-discovery-at-temple-missing-deputy-abbot-found-dead-beneath-crematorium/

Pictured courtesy of Khoasod. A local undertaker was left stunned after discovering the decomposed body of a missing monk beneath a crematorium while preparing for a funeral at a temple in Ang Thong province. Police Lieutenant Supachai Notong, a duty investigator at Pho Thong Police Station, confirmed receiving a report regarding the discovery of a body underneath the crematorium at a temple in Thang Phra Subdistrict, Pho Thong District. Authorities, including medical personnel from Pho Thong Hospital and a rescue foundation team, were dispatched to the scene for further investigation. The body was identified as Phra Wanchai, aged 60, the deputy abbot of the temple, who had been missing for nearly a month. His decomposed remains were found under the crematorium building by Mr Amnuay, a 70-year-old undertaker, who had entered the area to clean and collect ashes in preparation for a cremation scheduled the following day. “I went in to collect ashes and noticed the iron door was locked from the inside,” Mr Amnuay told police. “I used tools to cut the lock, and after collecting about two wheelbarrows of ash, I started smelling something rotten. I searched the area and was shocked to find the monk’s body lying on the ground.” Relatives of Phra Wanchai said the monk had been ordained for over 40 years and was known for his devotion to temple duties and charitable work, often overseeing cremations for the destitute free of charge. They had lost contact with him nearly a month earlier. His mobile phone was found charging in his quarters, but no one knew where he had gone. The body was sent for forensic examination to determine the exact cause of death. Police have launched an investigation, although there were no immediate signs of foul play. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod. -- 2025-04-20

Tattoo Artist Guns Down Man After Heated Argument in Samut Sakhon Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 42-year-old man was shot dead in the middle of the street during the night of 19 April, following a heated altercation with a 57-year-old tattoo artist and waste collector, who fled the scene on a motorcycle. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358233-tattoo-artist-guns-down-man-after-heated-argument-in-samut-sakhon/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 42-year-old man was shot dead in the middle of the street during the night of 19 April, following a heated altercation with a 57-year-old tattoo artist and waste collector, who fled the scene on a motorcycle. Police were alerted to the fatal shooting at approximately 21:00. Investigators from Mueang Samut Sakhon Police Station, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Samart Tingwang, arrived at the scene on Liap Khlong Si Wa Phasawat Road in Na Di subdistrict, alongside forensic teams and rescue personnel. The victim, identified as Mr. Jakkrit, a local resident of Na Di, was found dead with gunshot wounds to the right temple, left chest, and right side of the chest. Two 9mm shell casings were recovered near the body. Eyewitnesses stated that prior to the shooting, the victim had walked past a makeshift shelter belonging to the suspect, known only as Mr. Sang, when an argument broke out. The cause of the dispute remains unclear. Mr. Jakkrit reportedly returned to his nearby residence, approximately 200 metres from the incident, before emerging again and standing near the entrance to a nearby alley. Moments later, three gunshots rang out, prompting local residents to rush out and find the victim lying in a pool of blood. Witnesses claimed that the suspect was then seen fleeing the scene on a motorcycle driven by another unidentified individual. Authorities have identified Mr. Sang as the prime suspect. He is known locally as both a waste collector and a traditional tattoo artist. Police are currently reviewing CCTV footage and conducting witness interviews in an effort to locate and arrest him. The body of the deceased has been sent for a post-mortem examination. Police say the investigation is ongoing, and Mr. Sang will be prosecuted in accordance with the law once apprehended. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod. -- 2025-04-20

Horror as 15-Year-Old Boy’s Hand Mangled in Meat Grinder A 15-year-old boy suffered a horrific workplace injury when his right hand was dragged into a meat grinder at a butcher’s shop in Phuket, leaving his fingers severely crushed. Emergency responders spent nearly an hour carefully freeing the teenager before rushing him to hospital. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358232-horror-as-15-year-old-boy’s-hand-mangled-in-meat-grinder/

Picture from responders. A 15-year-old boy suffered a horrific workplace injury when his right hand was dragged into a meat grinder at a butcher’s shop in Phuket, leaving his fingers severely crushed. Emergency responders spent nearly an hour carefully freeing the teenager before rushing him to hospital. The shocking incident occurred on the afternoon of 18 April in Rassada subdistrict, Mueang district, Phuket. According to reports, the boy, referred to only as “Ae” , was operating a meat grinder when his hand was pulled into the machine while he was processing meat. Volunteers from the Kusoldharm Phuket Foundation responded swiftly to the distress call. They arrived at the scene with hydraulic cutting tools alongside an advanced EMS unit from Vachira Phuket Hospital. They found the teenager conscious but in visible pain, with his right hand trapped inside the grinder. Rescue workers spent almost an hour prying apart the heavy machinery to safely extract the boy’s hand. Upon removal, it was discovered that his thumb, fingers and parts of his hand were badly mutilated. He was immediately transported to Vachira Phuket Hospital for emergency medical treatment. Witnesses say the boy was operating the grinder when his hand was accidentally drawn into the machine. A co-worker quickly shut off the device and called for emergency help. An investigation is underway to determine the circumstances of the incident and whether any labour laws were violated. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod. -- 2025-04-20

Two Dead, One in ICU After Consuming Drug-Laced Sweets During Songkran Festival Picture courtesy of Amarin The Ramathibodi Poison Centre has issued a warning after two individuals died and another remains in intensive care following the consumption of a street drug known colloquially as “kanom La Boo Boo” during the recent Songkran festivities in Bangkok. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358231-two-dead-one-in-icu-after-consuming-drug-laced-sweets-during-songkran-festival/

Picture courtesy of Amarin The Ramathibodi Poison Centre has issued a warning after two individuals died and another remains in intensive care following the consumption of a street drug known colloquially as “kanom La Boo Boo” during the recent Songkran festivities in Bangkok. The centre reported that three cases were referred for emergency toxicology consultation over the holiday period. Victims exhibited severe symptoms including unconsciousness, muscle rigidity, respiratory arrest, and cardiac failure. Two of the three patients have since died, with one still being treated in ICU. Although the exact composition of the substance is yet to be confirmed, toxicologists suspect the drug may be a dangerous cocktail combining stimulant and depressant compounds, causing a deadly synergistic effect. Authorities are awaiting laboratory results to determine the precise substances involved. Similar to the infamous “K-nom Pong” drug cocktail that emerged in 2022, this new substance appears to follow the same pattern of combining multiple narcotics to increase potency, often with fatal consequences. The Poison Centre warned that the three reported cases might only represent a fraction of the true number of affected individuals, describing the situation as “the tip of the iceberg.” Additional deaths or severe cases may still be under forensic investigation or admitted in other hospitals. The centre has notified the Office of the Narcotics Control Board and relevant academic drug networks to investigate and respond swiftly. Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant. If family members or friends are known or suspected to have used drug-laced substances, especially any left over from the Songkran period, they are strongly advised not to consume them under any circumstances due to the risk of death. The case highlights growing concerns over the spread of recreational narcotics disguised as sweets or snacks at festivals and parties. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Amarin. -- 2025-04-20

Cambodian Woman Arrested in Sa Kaeo for Cross-Border Theft Spree Picture courtesy of Kaoded. Immigration and police authorities have arrested a 40-year-old Cambodian woman accused of repeatedly crossing the border to steal from Thai citizens in Aranyaprathet District, Sa Kaeo Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358228-cambodian-woman-arrested-in-sa-kaeo-for-cross-border-theft-spree/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. Immigration and police authorities have arrested a 40-year-old Cambodian woman accused of repeatedly crossing the border to steal from Thai citizens in Aranyaprathet District, Sa Kaeo Province. The arrest of Ms. Hoeurm Sim followed a joint operation between Sa Kaeo Immigration Police and officers from Aranyaprathet Police Station, under the direction of Pol. Col. Napattarapong Supaporn, Superintendent of Sa Kaeo Immigration, and Pol. Col. Chuchart Kongmuang, Superintendent of Aranyaprathet Police Station. Ms. Sim, a Cambodian national, was wanted under an arrest warrant issued by the Sa Kaeo Provincial Court on 17 April 2025 for “theft involving the use of a vehicle to facilitate the crime, to transport stolen property, or to evade arrest.” Authorities were tipped off by an informant that the suspect would appear near Aranyaprathet Police Station. Upon arrival at the location, officers identified and approached Ms. Sim, presented the arrest warrant, and confirmed her identity. She admitted to being the person named in the warrant and confessed fully to the charges. Police said Ms. Sim’s method involved daily illegal crossings into Thailand, where she committed thefts before returning to Cambodia in the evening. She is believed to have stolen a one-baht weight gold ornament and 30,000 baht in cash in a previous incident. Her most recent crime, just prior to her arrest, involved snatching a handbag. Crucially, during the arrest, officers heard a mobile phone ringing inside the stolen bag. When they answered, the caller was confirmed to be the bag’s rightful owner, the victim of the robbery. Ms. Sim was formally charged and advised of her legal rights before being handed over to investigators at Aranyaprathet Police Station for further legal proceedings. Authorities say the case highlights ongoing challenges with cross-border criminal activity and have pledged to increase coordination and vigilance along the Thai-Cambodian border. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod. -- 2025-04-20

CIB Cracks Down on Illegal Jet Ski Operations on Phuket Beaches Pictures courtesy of CIB Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) officers, led by the Marine Police Division, have arrested five individuals for operating unlicensed jet skis along the beaches and coastal waters of Phuket during a holiday crackdown. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358227-cib-cracks-down-on-illegal-jet-ski-operations-on-phuket-beaches/

Pictures courtesy of CIB Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) officers, led by the Marine Police Division, have arrested five individuals for operating unlicensed jet skis along the beaches and coastal waters of Phuket during a holiday crackdown. The arrests took place in two key locations: a beach in Kamala Subdistrict, Kathu District, and a pier in Koh Kaew Subdistrict, Mueang District. Those arrested include: 1. Mr. Krisada 2. Mr. Cherdchai 3. Ms. Anchalee All three were charged with “operating a vessel without a valid license,” offence, under Section 9 of the Navigation in Thai Waters Act B.E. 2481, amended by Section 60 of the Act B.E. 2535. 4. Mr. Phanomphon Charged under Section 150 of the Navigation Act B.E. 2456 for “failing to carry the vessel licence on board.” 5. Mr. Banjerd, aged 40 Faced two charges under the Navigation Act: “operating with an expired certificate” (Section 282, as amended by Section 19 of the 1982 Amendment), and “failing to keep the certificate on board” (Section 284, amended by Section 22 of the 1982 Amendment). The arrests follow a heightened enforcement initiative during the Songkran festival, where officers from Marine Police Subdivision 3, Division 8, were deployed to suppress maritime offences. Officers discovered several operators using unregistered and unmarked jet skis, a violation of Thai maritime law. Police formally informed the suspects of the charges and their legal rights before transferring them to investigators at Kamala Police Station and Phuket City Police Station for further legal proceedings. The operation was conducted under the direction of Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Phuridej, Commissioner of the CIB, with oversight from Pol. Maj. Gen. Setsathit Nippaya, Commander of the Marine Police Division, and Pol. Col. Thanawat Hinyokhin, Commander of Subdivision 8. Tactical orders were carried out by Pol. Lt. Col. Wisanu Jinawong, together with officers from Subdivision 3. The CIB reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, impartiality, and public service, vowing continued action against unlicensed watercraft operations to ensure maritime safety and legal compliance. Adapted by ASEAN Now from CIB. -- 2025-04-20

Trade Minister and Chinese Envoy Join Forces to Boost Durian Exports with 4 Key Strategies Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a bid to further cement Thailand’s dominance in the Chinese durian market, Commerce Minister Phichai Naripthaphan has met with Chinese diplomats to reaffirm confidence in the quality of Thai durians and to promote smoother export processes for the upcoming fruit season. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358226-trade-minister-and-chinese-envoy-join-forces-to-boost-durian-exports-with-4-key-strategies/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a bid to further cement Thailand’s dominance in the Chinese durian market, Commerce Minister Phichai Naripthaphan has met with Chinese diplomats to reaffirm confidence in the quality of Thai durians and to promote smoother export processes for the upcoming fruit season. On 18 April, Minister Phichai held talks with Mr Wu Zhiwu, Minister Counsellor of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Thailand, and Ms Zhang Xiaoxiao, Economic and Commercial Counsellor. During the meeting, the minister presented the popular Thai “Monthong” durian for tasting. The fruit received high praise for its distinctive flavour, reinforcing Thailand’s reputation as a premium durian exporter. Phichai expressed confidence in the smooth export of durians to China this season and highlighted the quality of Thai produce. He urged Chinese authorities to ease contamination inspection procedures, speed up customs clearances, enhance testing facilities, and increase manpower at inspection points during peak export periods. Chinese officials, in response, recommended more rigorous grading and quality control at Thai packing facilities, noting that reliable exporters with consistent quality could benefit from reduced inspection rates, a suggestion which will be forwarded to Thailand’s Department of Agriculture. Thailand exported around 833,000 tonnes of durians to China in 2024, valued at approximately USD 3.7 billion. This accounted for 97.4% of Thailand’s total durian exports. To strengthen this market further, the Ministry of Commerce, through the Department of International Trade Promotion, has launched a comprehensive campaign featuring four strategic pillars: 1. Building Consumer Confidence Overseas Thai Trade Offices are collaborating with provincial commerce departments to emphasise the superior taste, quality, and uniqueness of Thai durians. They also coordinate with customs and importers to facilitate real-time trade updates and logistics support. 2. Expanding the Online Market Thailand is targeting younger Chinese consumers via major digital platforms like Douyin (TikTok), Weibo, and Xiaohongshu. Collaborations with influencers (KOLs) and livestreamers will be backed by partnerships with e-commerce giants such as Tmall and JD.com. The campaign will culminate in “Thai Fruit Golden Month Online,” with 5 May designated as “Thai Durian Day” to coincide with peak harvest times. 3. Driving Sales through International Exhibitions Thai durians will be showcased at prominent Chinese trade fairs, such as the China-ASEAN Expo. In parallel, leading Chinese importers will be invited to Thailand’s THAIFEX event to promote direct business connections. 4. Stimulating Consumption through Special Promotions Thai restaurants and cafés across China will feature durian, themed dishes and beverages, like durian sticky rice, Monthong ice cream, and durian-based drinks. Additionally, “Durian Tours” will be hosted in supermarkets and shopping centres, including durian buffets as part of Thai cultural festivals. These initiatives reflect Thailand’s strategic commitment to maintaining and expanding its dominant position in China’s lucrative fruit market, while showcasing the unique appeal of its “King of Fruits” on the global stage. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod. -- 2025-04-20

Jealous Husband Shoots Wife, Flees 260km Across Provinces Before Releasing Her at Hospital Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a shocking case of domestic violence, a man allegedly shot his wife multiple times during a heated argument in Pattaya before fleeing with her in a pickup truck and eventually releasing her at a hospital over 260 kilometres away in Kanchanaburi province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358225-jealous-husband-shoots-wife-flees-260km-across-provinces-before-releasing-her-at-hospital/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a shocking case of domestic violence, a man allegedly shot his wife multiple times during a heated argument in Pattaya before fleeing with her in a pickup truck and eventually releasing her at a hospital over 260 kilometres away in Kanchanaburi province. The incident occurred around 18.30 on 18 April at a row of rented rooms in the Nong Prue area of Bang Lamung district, Chonburi. Authorities were alerted to the shooting around 21.00 and responded with a team from Pattaya City Police Station, forensic officers and investigators. At the scene, police found a large bloodstain in front of the room and five 11mm bullet casings. The victim, Ms. Thidaporn aged 26, who sells mangoes and flowers at a local market, had already been taken away by her husband in a bright orange Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck. Her father, Mr. Preecha, 56, was waiting for police and confirmed that his daughter had gone missing along with her vehicle. He suspected the attacker to be his son-in-law, Mr. Krat, who had been in a volatile relationship with Ms. Thidaporn for about a year. According to Mr. Preecha, the victim had recently attempted to leave Mr. Krat due to his drug-related behaviour and lack of support. Earlier that day, Mr. Krat had unexpectedly reappeared in Thidaporn’s life after being sent back to his hometown in Kanchanaburi, leading to a fatal argument. A close friend of the victim, Ms. Nan 32, recounted receiving a chilling video call at 19.35. With tears in her eyes, Thidaporn asked to “see her child’s face one last time.” Nan, shocked by the comment, showed her the child via video before rushing to inform the victim’s father. Neighbour Mr. Suthee, 46, witnessed the attack. He reported hearing five to six gunshots followed by desperate cries for help. Looking outside, he saw a woman collapsed in blood while a man, assumed to be her husband, brandished a gun. Mr. Krat then carried the injured woman into his pickup and drove away at speed. CCTV footage confirmed that the couple had a violent argument shortly before the shooting. Thidaporn was seen confronting Krat about their struggles, saying: “Do you know how hard I work to earn money?” Krat responded by firing a warning shot at the ground, then shooting her in the leg. As she lay wounded, he continued to fire three more shots, some at her and others into the air and at one point aimed the gun at his own head. At 22.10, Mr. Krat released the victim at Phanom Thuan Hospital in Kanchanaburi province. She sustained a gunshot wound to her left leg and remains under close medical supervision, reportedly traumatised by the ordeal. Police are now gathering further evidence and preparing an arrest warrant for Mr. Krat, who is still at large. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod. -- 2025-04-20

Motorbike Taxi Driver Arrested for Egg Attack on Tourist in Hua Hin Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A local motorbike taxi driver has been arrested after hurling eggs at foreign tourists in Hua Hin, in an incident that has sparked widespread criticism online. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358224-motorbike-taxi-driver-arrested-for-egg-attack-on-tourist-in-hua-hin/

Picture of the tourists courtesy of Khoasod. A local motorbike taxi driver has been arrested after hurling eggs at foreign tourists in Hua Hin, in an incident that has sparked widespread criticism online. The attack, apparently triggered by frustration over ride-hailing apps affecting traditional drivers’ income, ended with the tourists offering forgiveness and reaffirming their love for Thailand. The incident occurred on the evening of 17 April outside Hua Hin Railway Station. Ms Banita Gopal Periah, a tourist from Mauritius, had just arrived in Hua Hin by train with her husband and used a ride-hailing app to book transport to their accommodation. While approaching the vehicle, an unidentified individual threw fresh eggs at the car, splattering both the vehicle and the passengers. Shocked by the experience, Ms Periah posted the ordeal in the popular Facebook group Life in Hua Hin, a social space frequented by international visitors to the seaside town. “I’ve just arrived from Mauritius, and I can’t believe something like this happened,” she wrote. “I’m still in shock.” The post quickly went viral, drawing strong condemnation from both Thai locals and fellow tourists. Many expressed concern over the negative impact such incidents could have on Hua Hin’s image as a tourist-friendly destination. Police Colonel Kampanat Na Wichai, Superintendent of Hua Hin Police Station, confirmed that officers had identified and arrested two individuals involved in the attack, a female motorbike taxi driver and a 16-year-old girl. Both confessed to the crime. According to police, the suspects cited growing frustration and financial stress as their motive. The rise of app-based transport services had significantly reduced their income over the past few months, leading to mounting resentment. However, they insisted they did not intend to harm tourists or damage the reputation of Hua Hin. Investigations also revealed that similar incidents had occurred three times in the week leading up to this attack. Despite the shocking nature of the incident, Ms Periah responded with compassion. In a follow-up Facebook post, she thanked Thai police and locals for their support and praised the professionalism of the officers involved. “I want to thank the people of Hua Hin and the police for taking this seriously. The officers conducted themselves professionally, and I was touched by the kindness of those who assisted me throughout,” she wrote. “As a teacher who works with underprivileged youth, I understand the stress and pressure people face. I asked the police to issue only a warning to prevent this from happening again. I still believe Thailand is the Land of Smiles, and I love Hua Hin even more today.” Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod. -- 2025-04-20

Bangkok Governor Opens New Bang Bon Fire and Rescue Station with Six Fire Appliances Picture courtesy of Matichon. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt officially opened the new Bang Bon Fire and Rescue Station, underscoring the city’s commitment to public safety and emergency response readiness. The new facility, located in Bang Bon district, was inaugurated in the presence of local councillors, city officials, police, and members of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358223-bangkok-governor-opens-new-bang-bon-fire-and-rescue-station-with-six-fire-appliances/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt officially opened the new Bang Bon Fire and Rescue Station, underscoring the city’s commitment to public safety and emergency response readiness. The new facility, located in Bang Bon district, was inaugurated in the presence of local councillors, city officials, police, and members of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. In his speech, Governor Chadchart reaffirmed that safety is one of the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s (BMA) top priorities. He highlighted the administration’s continuous efforts to improve disaster prevention and response systems, including the refurbishment of dilapidated fire stations and the construction of new ones to expand coverage throughout the city. The Bang Bon station is fully equipped with six fire and rescue vehicles and a team of 42 personnel. The facility includes proper accommodation for staff to ensure swift response to emergencies at any time. Governor Chadchart emphasised that the new station will enhance the city’s ability to protect lives and property, offering prompt and effective services to residents in both Bang Bon and parts of neighbouring Bang Khun Thian district. The project was made possible through the support of Navamindradhiraj University, which provided five rai of land for use by the BMA. Construction of the station was managed by the Department of Public Works, with funding allocated in the annual budgets for fiscal years 2022 to 2024. Building works began on 25 April 2022. The site has since been handed over to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, which now operates the station. Covering an area of approximately 43.3 square kilometres, the station is responsible for fire and rescue services in Bang Bon district and a section of Rama II Road between Sois 44 and 100 in Bang Khun Thian. The northern boundary of the station’s jurisdiction borders Nong Khaem, Bang Khae, and Phasi Charoen districts, while to the east it meets Chom Thong district. To the south, it borders Bang Khun Thian along Rama II Road, and to the west, it adjoins the districts of Mueang Samut Sakhon and Krathum Baen in Samut Sakhon Province. The Bang Bon Fire and Rescue Station represents a significant step forward in enhancing the safety infrastructure of western Bangkok and ensuring that residents in the growing district receive prompt assistance during emergencies. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Matichon. -- 2025-04-20

Myanmar Airstrikes Force Karen Villagers to Flee Across Border Amid Escalating Conflict Pictures courtesy of Khoasod. Fierce fighting along the Thai-Myanmar border has intensified, with Myanmar military aircraft launching repeated airstrikes against ethnic minority groups, prompting hundreds of civilians to flee into Thailand in search of safety. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358222-myanmar-airstrikes-force-karen-villagers-to-flee-across-border-amid-escalating-conflict/

Pictures courtesy of Khoasod. Fierce fighting along the Thai-Myanmar border has intensified, with Myanmar military aircraft launching repeated airstrikes against ethnic minority groups, prompting hundreds of civilians to flee into Thailand in search of safety. In the early hours of 18 April, Myanmar forces used aerial bombardments near the village of Mopu Sue, just 2 kilometres from the Thai border, targeting positions believed to be held by ethnic Karen armed groups. The attack triggered a mass exodus of residents into Thailand, with many crossing into Huai Plakong village in Khane Chue subdistrict, Mae Ramat district, Tak province. Local Thai authorities quickly established a temporary safe zone at Huai Plakong Forest Monastery to accommodate the displaced. Officials confirmed that 215 Myanmar nationals had sought refuge, including 39 men, 72 women, 53 boys and 51 girls. Colonel Natthakorn Rueantip, commander of the Ratchamanu Task Force, ordered troops from the Ratchamanu and Ranger Task Force 35 units to coordinate with police and local administrative officers to ensure border security and provide humanitarian aid. Military personnel have been deployed along the frontier, equipped with support weapons as part of a contingency response plan to protect Thai sovereignty and civilian lives. Tensions have been rising since a Myanmar Air Force YAK-130 aircraft dropped bombs near Talui Thong village in Kawkareik Township, Karen State, opposite Rim Moei village in Mae Sot district, Tak province, approximately 50 kilometres from the border. In retaliation, the Karen National Liberation Army’s 7th Brigade launched a counteroffensive, deploying troops and drones to attack the Myanmar Army’s Infantry Battalion 24 base in Mopu Sue, located in Myawaddy Township, Karen State. During the clashes, Myanmar forces reportedly responded with heavy weaponry. The intensifying conflict has led to another wave of displaced villagers. Approximately 120 more civilians crossed into Thailand via a natural border crossing near Tham Mokkhala, also in Huai Plakong village, seeking refuge in the designated safe zone. Thai security forces and humanitarian agencies remain on high alert as the border situation continues to develop. Officials have reiterated their commitment to upholding humanitarian principles while maintaining national security. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod. -- 2025-04-20

Horrific Drug-Fuelled Murder: Husband Stabs Wife 13 Times While She Held Their Baby Picture courtesy of ThaiRath. In a chilling act of violence, a 40-year-old man allegedly stabbed his wife 13 times in a drug-induced frenzy while she was holding their 11-month-old son. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning on 18 April, in Ban Na district, Nakhon Nayok province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358221-horrific-drug-fuelled-murder-husband-stabs-wife-13-times-while-she-held-their-baby/

Picture courtesy of ThaiRath. In a chilling act of violence, a 40-year-old man allegedly stabbed his wife 13 times in a drug-induced frenzy while she was holding their 11-month-old son. The incident occurred in the early hours of the morning on 18 April, in Ban Na district, Nakhon Nayok province. Police from Ban Na Police Station, led by Pol Lt Col Jaroon Duangwiangkham, were alerted to the scene at approximately 06:30. Upon arrival at a single-storey residence on Soi Charoensap, officers discovered the victim, Ms Phenphoyom “Koi” Duangchampa, 34, lying in a pool of blood in the living room. She had sustained 13 stab wounds to the neck and abdomen. Despite efforts to rush her to Ban Na Hospital, she was later pronounced dead. Inside the home, police also found the couple’s baby boy crying beside his mother’s lifeless body. The suspect, identified as Mr Amnat “Get” Srisat, the victim’s husband, had fled the scene in a car shortly after the attack. According to Mr Amnat’s mother, Mrs Bangon Jomsri, 61, her son had returned home from Nakhon Ratchasima province, where he worked as an auto electrician, to visit his family for the Songkran holiday. He had been living with Ms Phenphoyom for three years and was known to have a history of drug use. On the morning of April 17, an argument reportedly broke out after Ms Phenphoyom asked Mr Amnat for money to buy milk for their child. Mr Amnat, having lost his money to online gambling, became agitated. His mother stated that he had consumed methamphetamine, which caused paranoid hallucinations. He became convinced that his wife was being unfaithful. Through the night, the argument escalated. While Mrs Bangon was taking a shower in the morning, she heard her daughter-in-law scream. She rushed to the house and found her son violently attacking his wife with a knife as she held their child. Mrs Bangon attempted to intervene, but Mr Amnat fled the scene in a car. Police later apprehended Mr Amnat at a relative’s house in Don Pho village, also in Ban Na. His clothes were reportedly stained with blood. During interrogation, he admitted to the killing, claiming he had been hallucinating and believed his wife was cheating on him. He also confessed to discarding the murder weapon in a canal near the Thonglang Subdistrict Administrative Office, though a search by rescue divers failed to locate the knife. Mr Amnat is in police custody and has been taken to the scene to participate in a crime reenactment. Authorities say he will be charged with murder. Adapted by ASEAN Now from ThaiRath. -- 2025-04-20

Motorbike Racer Critically Injured in Pattaya Tunnel Crash A young man was critically injured just after midnight when his motorbike collided with the rear of a parked car on the exit from the Pattaya Klang underpass. The crash occurred on the lane heading towards Sattahip. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1358220-motorbike-racer-critically-injured-in-pattaya-tunnel-crash/