Georgealbert

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Metropolitan Police have dismantled a drug trafficking network operating through the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), arresting two suspects and seizing narcotics and assets worth over 314,000 baht. The arrests were announced by Pol Lt Gen Siam Boonsom, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, alongside senior officers involved in the investigation and narcotics suppression. The suspects were identified as Mr Khwanchai, also known as “Ching”, aged 36, and Mr Pawit, known as “Ice”, aged 31. Officers seized 636.60 grams of crystal methamphetamine, 1.39 grams of ketamine, cash, gold ornaments, a motorcycle and various electronic cards used in the drug operation. The investigation began after a confidential informant tipped off police about a user on X under the name “Daruma Bang Anas” (@drumaymd71297), who had been openly advertising drugs for sale, including methamphetamine, yaba and ketamine, with delivery services offered via parcel post or local courier apps. Police organised a sting operation in which an undercover agent contacted the seller via a LINE account named “Bang Anas” and ordered 1 gram of crystal meth for 1,699 baht, including delivery. Payment was made to an account under the name Mr Nuchakorn, and the drugs were successfully delivered via a Grab driver, hidden inside a drinking flask. Further investigation traced the package to a residence in Soi Nawamin, where officers raided the premises and arrested Mr Khwanchai as he was preparing another parcel. Crystal meth was found in the house, and CCTV footage confirmed he was the individual responsible for sending the packages. During questioning, Mr Khwanchai confessed to receiving instructions via a LINE account named “Oneice Cool” and being paid 350 baht per parcel. He admitted to recently sending 30 drug parcels from a Ship Smile branch in Nuanchan 36, all of which were seized by police. Police then apprehended Mr Pawit at a dental clinic in the Kheha Romklao area. A search of his bag revealed ketamine and documents linking him to the Twitter and LINE accounts used to coordinate drug sales and distribution. Both suspects confessed to using X and LINE to manage the drug operation, with Mr Pawit identified as the organiser and overseer of the network. They have been charged with jointly distributing Category 1 narcotics (methamphetamine) and Category 2 psychotropic substances (ketamine) with intent to sell and posing a threat to public safety. The case is now being handled by investigators at Khok Khram Police Station. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-01.

Elderly Man Killed Instantly After Electric Tricycle Collides with Big Bike in Phrae Picture courtesy of Workpoint. An 82-year-old man riding an electric tricycle was killed on the spot after being struck by a high-powered motorcycle while crossing a road in Phrae province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362376-elderly-man-killed-instantly-after-electric-tricycle-collides-with-big-bike-in-phrae/

Picture courtesy of Workpoint. An 82-year-old man riding an electric tricycle was killed on the spot after being struck by a high-powered motorcycle while crossing a road in Phrae province. The fatal collision occurred at around 13:00 on 31 May, near the irrigation canal bridge intersection in Moo 9, Mueang Mo Subdistrict, close to Ban Kwao, Moo 5, Kanchana Subdistrict, Mueang Phrae District. Police Lieutenant Colonel Sriprai Satchanaranpan, deputy inspector at Mueang Phrae Police Station, responded to the emergency call. Accompanied by local patrol officer Pol. Sub-Lt. Pokpong Sinmanee and rescue personnel from Phrae Rescue Foundation, they arrived at the scene to find a blue electric tricycle badly damaged beneath a roadside guardrail. Nearby, the body of Mr. Manit 82, a former village headman of Nong Bo, Moo 4, Kanchana Subdistrict, was discovered. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Approximately five metres from the tricycle, police found a damaged Kawasaki Ninja motorcycle. The rider, a young man identified only as Mr. Bank from Mueang Mo, sustained minor injuries. He told police he was returning to his shop after lunch when the electric vehicle suddenly crossed into his path, leaving him no time to avoid the collision. Investigators have recorded the scene and are proceeding with the legal process. Residents who witnessed the aftermath expressed growing concern over the increasing number of elderly individuals riding electric motorcycles and tricycles, many of whom lack experience or sufficient reflexes. Adapted by Asean Now from Workpoint 2025-06-01.

UPDATE Chinese Man Admits to Shooting Countryman in Pattaya Over Debt Dispute Picture courtesy of SiamChon. Further developments have emerged in the case of Mr. Qiyang Song, 26, a Chinese national who was injured after being shot in the leg by fellow Chinese citizen Mr. Ju Bin, 32. The shooting, which took place at a private residence in Pattaya, has shocked the local community, particularly as police uncovered a significant cache of drugs in a vehicle connected to the group. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362343-chinese-man-shot-by-compatriot-near-pattaya-gunman-in-custody/#findComment-19839732

UPDATE Chinese Man Admits to Shooting Countryman in Pattaya Over Debt Dispute Picture courtesy of SiamChon. Further developments have emerged in the case of Mr. Qiyang Song, 26, a Chinese national who was injured after being shot in the leg by fellow Chinese citizen Mr. Ju Bin, 32. The shooting, which took place at a private residence in Pattaya, has shocked the local community, particularly as police uncovered a significant cache of drugs in a vehicle connected to the group. Authorities confirmed this afternoon that a Chinese-language interpreter was brought in to assist in the detailed interrogation of Mr. Ju Bin. The session lasted over an hour and led to significant revelations. Forensic police also conducted gunshot residue (GSR) tests, which confirmed Mr. Ju Bin had discharged a firearm. Mr. Ju Bin confessed to firing the weapon, admitting he was responsible for the shot that struck Mr. Qiyang Song in the right ankle. However, he claimed the shooting was unintentional, explaining that it was meant to be a warning shot fired into the ground. According to his statement, Mr. Qiyang Song allegedly owed him 500,000 baht and had not only failed to repay the debt but had returned to demand more money. Tensions escalated during the morning when Mr. Qiyang Song visited the rented house on Soi Khao Makok 9. Mr. Ju Bin and two other Chinese nationals, one man and one woman, had been renting the property. Mr. Qiyang Song was known to visit frequently. The incident reportedly intensified when Mr. Wang Zhi Jie, 26, also a Chinese national, attempted to park the blue Mercedes-Benz GLA inside the property. Mr. Qiyang Song allegedly obstructed the gate by jumping in front of it, provoking Mr. Ju Bin, who warned him to leave. Claiming he did not want Mr. Qiyang Song to enter the house, Mr. Ju Bin stated he retrieved a firearm and fired a single shot from inside the residence. He maintained that the shot was not aimed directly at the victim but ricocheted, inadvertently striking Mr. Song in the leg. The 3 Chinese nationals at the house were taken in for questioning. 1. Mr. Ju Bin, 32 – the gunman 2. Mr. Wang Zhi Jie, 26 3. Ms. Zhang Junhan, 24 Police confirm that, during initial questioning, the group has remained evasive and inconsistent in their accounts, particularly regarding the significant quantity of illegal drugs found at the scene. None have admitted involvement in drug offences, and investigations are ongoing to determine ownership and the extent of any criminal network. It has also come to light that all three individuals were residing in Thailand on expired visas and are therefore now also being dealt with for immigration offences related to overstay. In addition, police are reviewing the travel history of the suspects and collaborating with immigration and relevant national security agencies to assess whether the group may be part of a wider criminal operation. Police are in the process of compiling evidence and expect to formally charge Mr. Ju Bin with attempted murder and firearms offences under Thailand’s Firearms Act. Drug-related charges will be determined pending further forensic analysis and investigation. It has also been revealed that officers from Huay Yai Police Station had previously visited the same property on 23 May 2025, following a report of a disturbance. At that time, no suspects were found, but officers did discover a suspicious motorcycle resembling a police patrol vehicle, a maroon Honda CBR with the label “แจ้งเหตุ 191” (“Report Incident 191”) on the front windscreen. The vehicle did not display standard police registration plates, but a check of the engine number confirmed it to be a former police patrol motorcycle decommissioned from the Royal Thai Police. It remains unclear which station originally owned it. Police have now impounded the motorcycle and are actively investigating how the group came to possess it, as part of broader efforts to uncover the full scope of the group’s activities in Thailand. Adapted by Asean Now from SiamChon 2025-06-01.

Police Bust 3 Illegal Loan Shark Networks Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Authorities have dismantled a sprawling illegal loan network operating under the notorious name “Jae Aun Quick Cash”, arresting six suspects including high-profile financier Ms. Suphaphak, known for her aggressive interest rates and bold marketing tactics. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362375-police-bust-3-illegal-loan-shark-networks/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Authorities have dismantled a sprawling illegal loan network operating under the notorious name “Jae Aun Quick Cash”, arresting six suspects including high-profile financier Ms. Suphaphak, known for her aggressive interest rates and bold marketing tactics. The nationwide operation, carried out on 31 May, was ordered by Pol. Maj. Gen. Tatsapoom Charuprachya, Commander of the Economic Crime Suppression Division. Officers executed raids at six targeted locations across Bangkok, Pathum Thani and Sukhothai, arresting six individuals and seizing significant evidence related to illegal moneylending operations. Investigators say each of the three networks uncovered had revolving capital exceeding 100 million baht, and were charging exorbitant interest rates well above legal limits. Target 1: “Cash Today” – Chantaburi The first crackdown focused on “Cash Today”, a business promoted via Facebook and allegedly operated by Mr. Sumet, who evaded arrest at the scene but later surrendered to police. His operation reportedly charged 10% monthly. Officers found financial documents and other evidence at his Chantaburi residence. Two other suspects, Ms. Suphatra (54) and Mr. Rewat (39), were arrested in Bangkok and admitted to their roles in profiting from the illegal scheme. Target 2: Lam Luk Ka, Pathum Thani In the second operation, police arrested three men, Mr. Phonpawit (54), Mr. Kritin (30), and Mr. Chao (31), for running an unauthorised loan business in Lam Luk Ka. Their model reportedly charged daily interest of 2%. The two younger suspects acted as enforcers responsible for debt collection, sometimes using threats and intimidation. Target 3: “Jae Aun Quick Cash” – Sukhothai The third and most notorious figure arrested was 35-year-old Ms. Suphaphak, better known by her alias “Jae Aun Quick Cash”. Her brazen slogan, “If 2% monthly is too much, go borrow from the government”, was printed on promotional T-shirts and found during the raid. Her operation allegedly imposed interest rates of 7.57% per day. Those unable to pay were routinely visited by her operatives, who were known to use threats and intimidation. During the raid on her residence and office in Sukhothai, police uncovered numerous documents detailing borrower records, debt acknowledgement forms and stacks of merchandise promoting the illegal lending service. Ms. Suphaphak confessed to all charges. Authorities confirmed that the seized evidence and financial records will form part of the prosecution’s case, as all suspects have now been handed over to the Economic Crime Suppression Division for legal proceedings. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-06-01.

Authorities Seal Off 42 ‘Doraemon Doors’ to Myanmar in Border Crackdown Pictures courtesy of Daily News. Security agencies have tried to permanently seal 42 illegal cross-border passageways, dubbed “Doraemon Doors”, that connected private properties in Sangkhla Buri District to neighbouring Myanmar. The move comes amid escalating efforts to curb smuggling and drug trafficking along the border. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362374-authorities-seal-off-42-‘doraemon-doors’-to-myanmar-in-border-crackdown/

Pictures courtesy of Daily News. Security agencies have tried to permanently seal 42 illegal cross-border passageways, dubbed “Doraemon Doors”, that connected private properties in Sangkhla Buri District to neighbouring Myanmar. The move comes amid escalating efforts to curb smuggling and drug trafficking along the border. The decision follows a high-level security meeting held on 30 May, chaired by Mr Suriya­sak Muean-Uam, District Chief of Sangkhla Buri and attended by senior local officials, police, border patrol, and representatives of affected homeowners and warehouse operators. The meeting focused on enforcing border control in Moo 9 village, located in the Ban Phra Chedi Sam Ong area. The so-called “Doraemon Doors”, named after the fictional character’s ability to travel anywhere through a magic door, allowed unauthorised passage from the front of homes and buildings in Thailand directly out through the back into Myanmar. These channels have allegedly been used for smuggling cash, goods and possibly drugs. In one recent case, officials uncovered an attempt to smuggle over 18 million baht in cash across the border using one of these doors. A total of 42 such doors on residential properties, warehouses and factories are now being sealed off permanently between 31 May and 6 June. The operation is part of the government’s Seal, Stop, Safe campaign to suppress cross-border narcotics trafficking and illegal trade. Security units involved include the Lat Ya Task Force, local administrative officials and Sangkhla Buri police. Homeowners have been ordered to lock the rear exits with new padlocks and permanently weld or seal the doors. The keys are being jointly held by the three lead agencies to ensure security and oversight. Warning notices have been posted at each sealed exit, declaring that tampering with or reopening these doors constitutes a violation of administrative orders. Security patrols will be increased to ensure compliance and to monitor the structural integrity of the sealed doors. Any future unauthorised use or modification of these rear exits will be considered a breach of official orders and may result in the offender being stripped of their land use rights. Offending parties will be reported to the Kanchanaburi Provincial Border Command Centre for further action. This decisive move underscores Thailand’s commitment to closing down loopholes in its border security and tackling transnational crime with a coordinated, zero-tolerance approach. Adapted by Asean Now from Daily News 2025-06-01.

Bangkok Named Best City in the World for Remote Work by New York Post Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Bangkok has been ranked the best city in the world for remote work, according to a report by the New York Post, citing high-speed internet, a low cost of living and vibrant cultural attractions as key factors behind the capital’s top spot. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362373-bangkok-named-best-city-in-the-world-for-remote-work-by-new-york-post/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Bangkok has been ranked the best city in the world for remote work, according to a report by the New York Post, citing high-speed internet, a low cost of living and vibrant cultural attractions as key factors behind the capital’s top spot. Sasikarn Wattanachan, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, announced the news on 31 May, noting that Bangkok’s combination of modern infrastructure and rich cultural heritage makes it particularly appealing to digital nomads. “Bangkok’s ornate temples, world-famous cuisine and bustling street life offer an unmatched experience for those seeking a new way of working and living,” said Sasikarn. “The city is full of energy and vibrancy, blending traditional Thai charm with modern convenience.” The New York Post cited data from QR Code Generator, which recently compiled an index ranking the best global cities for digital nomads. The index considered factors such as internet speed, cost of living, availability of remote work visas and overall quality of life. Bucharest, the capital of Romania, came in second place. The report highlighted the growing popularity of remote work, nearly five years after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, as more professionals seek flexible arrangements that allow them to work from abroad. In response to this trend, the government is actively promoting the country as a remote work hub. Sasikarn explained that Thailand has expanded its visa-free entry to 93 countries and territories, allowing visitors to stay for up to 60 days. Additionally, the newly introduced Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) aims to attract foreign nationals who wish to work remotely or engage in cultural or medical activities while travelling in Thailand. “These measures are part of the government’s wider strategy to meet the needs of modern travellers and stimulate the Thai economy year-round,” she added. The recognition from the New York Post is seen as a major boost to Thailand’s tourism and remote work sectors, reaffirming Bangkok’s status as one of the world’s most dynamic and welcoming cities for international professionals. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-06-01.

UPDATE Suspected Anthrax Case in Nong Bua Lamphu Tests Negative – Authorities Continue Animal Testing Picture courtesy of Matichon. Health authorities have confirmed that a suspected anthrax case in Nong Bua Lamphu province has tested negative, easing fears in the local community following widespread social media speculation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362308-suspected-anthrax-case-in-nong-bua-lamphu-after-man-eats-raw-beef/#findComment-19839719

UPDATE Suspected Anthrax Case in Nong Bua Lamphu Tests Negative – Authorities Continue Animal Testing Picture courtesy of Matichon. Health authorities have confirmed that a suspected anthrax case in Nong Bua Lamphu province has tested negative, easing fears in the local community following widespread social media speculation. The patient, a 64-year-old man identified only as Mr. Thongsuk, from Nong Ruea subdistrict in Non Sang district, reportedly began experiencing symptoms on 23 May. He had not been involved in animal farming but was believed to have consumed raw minced pork (larb) at a local Bun Bang Fai rocket festival. Initial symptoms included itchy pustules on his back, later spreading to his arms, abdomen and shoulders, with black scabs eventually forming. The patient sought medical treatment on 29 May. Initial gram-stain laboratory tests returned a positive result, prompting concern over a possible anthrax infection. Further testing was conducted by the Department of Medical Sciences under the Ministry of Public Health. As of the morning of 31 May, officials confirmed that the patient’s samples showed no trace of anthrax DNA, according to the final laboratory results. Authorities have urged local residents and livestock farmers to remain calm. Meanwhile, Nong Bua Lamphu provincial livestock officials, led by Ms. Wallapa Waraassavapat, have begun collecting samples from animals kept in the same area. It is suspected that the meat used in the raw dish may have come from one of these animals. Blood and tissue samples have been sent for testing, and results are expected on 1 June. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and advise the public to avoid consuming raw meat to prevent food borne illnesses. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-01.

Cyber Agency Warns of Millions of Leaked Accounts Linked to Pirated Software Use Picture courtesy of The Standard. The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has issued an urgent warning following the discovery of over a million leaked user credentials, blaming pirated software as a major cause of severe cyber threats to both individuals and organisations. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362372-cyber-agency-warns-of-millions-of-leaked-accounts-linked-to-pirated-software-use/

Picture courtesy of The Standard. The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has issued an urgent warning following the discovery of over a million leaked user credentials, blaming pirated software as a major cause of severe cyber threats to both individuals and organisations. Air Vice Marshal Amorn Chomchoey, Secretary-General of the NCSA, revealed on 30 May that investigations by the national Computer Emergency Response Team (ThaiCERT) had uncovered widespread use of illegal software. This, he said, had become a primary entry point for hackers to infiltrate computer systems, steal data and launch ransomware attacks. “The use of pirated software is still alarmingly common. It’s not just an issue of legality, it’s a significant security risk. Once malware embedded in this software accesses user credentials, such as usernames and passwords, it allows hackers to infiltrate internal systems undetected,” Amorn stated. He warned that infected systems can expose sensitive login information for services such as VPNs, Remote Desktop connections and cloud platforms, giving attackers direct access to organisational networks. Once inside, they can move laterally across systems, stealing data or deploying ransomware. According to Amorn, more than one million usernames and passwords have already been compromised, with some victims losing entire balances of cryptocurrency from digital wallets. The attacks typically go unnoticed by standard security software, as the credentials used are legitimate and trusted. ThaiCERT’s analysis revealed that various forms of malware are often bundled with pirated software. The most common threats include: • Phishing – Scams where attackers impersonate trusted entities to trick victims into revealing personal or financial information. • Ransomware – Malicious programs that lock a user’s data and demand payment for its release. • Cryptojacking – The unauthorised use of a victim’s device to mine cryptocurrency, leading to performance degradation and overheating. Amorn urged the public and organisations to conduct basic checks for signs of malware infection and to cease using unauthorised software immediately. Users can visit the NCSA website at www.ncsa.or.th for guidelines on how to detect potential infections and take appropriate action. The agency emphasised that securing systems and using only licensed software is essential in the fight against increasingly sophisticated cybercrime. Adapted by Asean Now from The Standard 2025-06-01.

Woman Survives 10-Metre Cliff Fall in Phuket Motorcycle Crash Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 22-year-old woman narrowly escaped serious injury after losing control of her motorcycle and plunging off a 10-metre-high roadside cliff in Patong. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362371-woman-survives-10-metre-cliff-fall-in-phuket-motorcycle-crash/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 22-year-old woman narrowly escaped serious injury after losing control of her motorcycle and plunging off a 10-metre-high roadside cliff in Patong. At approximately 13:35 on 30 May, officers from Patong Police Station received a report from the emergency radio centre of a motorcycle crash on Muen Ngen Road, behind a hotel in Patong subdistrict, Kathu district. Investigating officer Pol Sub-Lt Channarong Prakongkuea, along with rescue personnel from the Kusoldharm Phuket Foundation, arrived promptly at the scene. They discovered a cream-coloured Honda Scoopy with registration number from Phuket, parked at the roadside with only minor damage. According to initial reports, the driver was identified as Miss Intira Dao, 22, who had been riding with a pillion passenger, Mrs Pathumthip Kuea-det, 41. The pair were reportedly returning home from visiting relatives and were en route to their residence near the mosque in Soi Khok Makham. The crash occurred on a steep downhill curve along Muen Ngen Road. Miss Intira reportedly lost control of the vehicle, causing it to graze a roadside barrier before she fell off the road and tumbled approximately 10 metres down the embankment. She sustained only minor injuries to her mouth and remained conscious throughout. Rescue workers safely retrieved her from the slope, using a rescue stretcher and transported her to Patong Hospital for further treatment. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-01.

UPDATE Four Officers Transferred Amid Helicopter Crash Investigation Picture courtesy of Amarin. The national police chief, Police General Kittirat Panpetch, has transferred four officers from the Royal Thai Police Aviation Division to inactive posts at the Royal Thai Police Operations Centre following two fatal crashes in the past month. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361652-helicopter-crash-in-prachuap-khiri-khan/page/2/#findComment-19839709

UPDATE Four Officers Transferred Amid Helicopter Crash Investigation Picture courtesy of Amarin. The national police chief, Police General Kittirat Panpetch, has transferred four officers from the Royal Thai Police Aviation Division to inactive posts at the Royal Thai Police Operations Centre following two fatal crashes in the past month. The decision comes after preliminary findings from an ongoing investigation into the crashes on 25 April and 24 May, which claimed the lives of several police officers. The crashes occurred within a month of each other, raising widespread public concern and scrutiny of aviation safety standards within the force. Effective from 30 May, the officers transferred include: • Police Major General Amnat Detboonluang, Commander of the Police Aviation Division • Police Colonel Danchai Phimsarn, Deputy Commander of the Police Aviation Division • Police Colonel Pichaisak Phanyopon, Senior Aircraft Mechanic Specialist • Police Lieutenant Colonel Suthep Wongkuan, Aircraft Mechanic (Level 2) All four are now assigned to special duties at the Police Operations Centre, with immediate effect and removed from their original posts. The transfers were made under Section 63 and Section 105 of the National Police Act 2022 and relevant police regulations regarding temporary reassignments. The transfers follow initial conclusions from the Police Inspector General’s inquiry, suggesting mechanical failure in the 24 May crash. Investigators believe the tail rotor assembly may have detached after being struck by the main rotor blades, possibly due to two missing bolts, resulting in loss of control and stability of the aircraft. Police General Kittirat also appointed Police Colonel Narong Iamsom, current Deputy Commander of the Aviation Division, to serve as Acting Commander to ensure operational continuity. The official statement noted that there is reason to suspect negligence or underperformance among those responsible for aircraft maintenance and safety. The Royal Thai Police stressed the need for a transparent, effective and fair investigation to maintain public confidence and prevent further damage to the organisation’s reputation. The incidents have prompted significant attention on social media and within the broader public, leading to calls for accountability and systemic reform in police aviation maintenance protocols. The investigation remains ongoing, with further technical analysis being conducted to determine the exact cause of the crashes. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-06-01.

Brazen Car Thief Nabbed After Stealing Taxi While Driver Used Toilet Picture courtesy of Matichon. Police in Bangkok’s Bang Sue district have arrested a 31-year-old man who made off with a taxi while the unsuspecting driver had momentarily stepped away to use a public toilet. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362370-brazen-car-thief-nabbed-after-stealing-taxi-while-driver-used-toilet/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Police in Bangkok’s Bang Sue district have arrested a 31-year-old man who made off with a taxi while the unsuspecting driver had momentarily stepped away to use a public toilet. The suspect, identified as Mr. Thawatchai, also known as “Bom”, was apprehended at around 20:30 on 30 May at a Shell petrol station on Ratchaprarop Road in Makkasan, Phaya Thai district. He was found in possession of a green-and-yellow Toyota taxi and a car key. The arrest followed swift action by Bang Sue police investigators after receiving a report from the vehicle’s 69-year-old driver. According to the complaint, the driver had parked the taxi with the engine running outside Gate 3 of the Chatuchak Market, located in Chatuchak district and briefly left the vehicle to use the restroom. Upon returning, he discovered that his car had vanished. Investigators tracked the vehicle’s movements and eventually located it parked at the Shell station. Officers maintained surveillance at the scene until Mr. Thawatchai returned to the vehicle and attempted to enter. At that point, police approached and placed him under arrest. Under questioning, Mr. Thawatchai admitted to the theft, stating that he noticed the taxi was left running and decided to drive it away. His confession was consistent with the timeline and circumstances reported by the victim. Police have charged Mr. Thawatchai with “theft during the hours of darkness” and have formally informed him of his legal rights. The suspect acknowledged and understood the charges. He and the stolen vehicle have since been handed over to the investigating officers to proceed with legal action. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-01.

Ambulance Plunges into Ravine in Chiang Mai Picture courtesy of Matichon. An ambulance carrying four people veered off a steep mountain road and fell into a ravine in Omkoi district early morning on 31 May. The incident occurred at kilometre marker 102 near Ban Nam Dan in Mon Chong subdistrict, amidst heavy rainfall and treacherous driving conditions. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362369-ambulance-plunges-into-ravine-in-chiang-mai/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. An ambulance carrying four people veered off a steep mountain road and fell into a ravine in Omkoi district early morning on 31 May. The incident occurred at kilometre marker 102 near Ban Nam Dan in Mon Chong subdistrict, amidst heavy rainfall and treacherous driving conditions. According to initial reports, the accident took place at approximately 06:50. The ambulance driver, en route to a hospital, lost control on a steep, rain-soaked descent and slipped off the road. The remote area lacks mobile phone coverage, which caused delays in coordinating rescue efforts. The vehicle was carrying four individuals: the driver, a nurse, a patient and a relative. Fortunately, all sustained only minor injuries and were safely transported to hospital for treatment. All victims are now reported to be in stable condition. Authorities attributed the crash to continuous heavy rainfall and the steep gradient of the road. Emergency responders from Hod district’s volunteer rescue association and Chiang Mai traffic radio network assisted at the scene. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-01.

Chonburi Tourism Federation Welcomes Chinese Tour Operators in Promotional Drive Picture courtesy of SiamChon. In a strong show of support for the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)’s latest campaign, the Chonburi Tourism Federation has joined forces with the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) to welcome a delegation of over 300 Chinese tour companies from 34 provinces across China as part of the “Sawasdee Ni Hao” initiative. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362368-chonburi-tourism-federation-welcomes-chinese-tour-operators-in-promotional-drive/

Picture courtesy of SiamChon. In a strong show of support for the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)’s latest campaign, the Chonburi Tourism Federation has joined forces with the Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA) to welcome a delegation of over 300 Chinese tour companies from 34 provinces across China as part of the “Sawasdee Ni Hao” initiative. The event, held at the Ravindra Beach Resort & Spa in Pattaya, was attended by a host of senior tourism and local government figures, including Mr Poramet Ngampichet, Mayor of Pattaya; Ms Phatthanamong Na Chiang Mai, Deputy Governor for Asia and South Pacific Markets, TAT; Mr Chaiwat Tamthai, Director of TAT Pattaya Office; Mr Thanet Supornsahasrangsri, President of the Chonburi Tourism Federation; Mr Thanapol Cheewarattanaporn, President of ATTA; and Mr Nakorn Phonlookin, Member of the Chonburi Provincial Administrative Organisation, among others. The gathering formed part of a strategic campaign aimed at rebuilding confidence in Thailand’s tourism sector, establishing long-term business partnerships and showcasing Pattaya and Chonburi’s readiness to host international tourists with world-class services. Particular emphasis was placed on attracting high-quality Chinese travellers and reinforcing the province’s reputation as a premier tourist destination. A key highlight of the event was the opportunity provided to local tourism operators, who are members of the Chonburi Tourism Federation, to engage in direct discussions with the visiting Chinese firms, completely free of charge. To bridge the language gap, Chinese interpreters from Sawangboriboon School were on hand, demonstrating effective collaboration between the tourism and education sectors. In addition to business networking, guests were treated to a captivating cultural showcase featuring highlights from renowned Chonburi attractions. The Thai Thani Cultural Village in Pattaya presented an array of world-famous Thai delicacies, including Pad Thai, durian sticky rice, and Som Tam. Spectacular performances by over 50 artists from Thai Thani and the iconic Alcazar Cabaret added flair to the festivities, while local tourism operators extended a warm and heartfelt welcome. The event marked a significant milestone in regional tourism promotion, reaffirming Chonburi’s capability, cultural richness and the professionalism of its tourism industry as it continues to rebuild and thrive in the post-pandemic landscape. Adapted by Asean Now from SiamChon 2025-06-01.