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Picture from responders. A man suffered a massive electric shock while working on a building in Sriracha, Chonburi, prompting an urgent response from rescue teams and emergency services. At 10:25 on 12 February, the Sawang Prateep Sriracha Rescue Centre received reports of an electrocution incident near Boi Yang Junction in Nong Kham subdistrict. Mr Manoch Oontarakulthong, President of the Sawang Prateep Sriracha Rescue Unit, immediately dispatched a response team and additional support vehicles were sent to the scene. Upon arrival, rescue teams found a male victim still trapped on the upper section of the building, unable to descend. He had sustained a head laceration and first-degree burns from the electric shock and was in a semi-conscious state. Given the complexity of the situation, the rescue team requested further support from Chonburi Emergency Command. Medical personnel from Laem Chabang Hospital were dispatched, alongside additional Sawang Prateep Sriracha rescue teams. Authorities also coordinated with the Fire Prevention and Disaster Relief Department of Laem Chabang Municipality, requesting a hydraulic platform, with rescue cage, to safely retrieve the victim. The Provincial Electricity Authority and other relevant agencies were also notified to assist. Rescue personnel provided initial first aid before Laem Chabang Hospital medics stabilised the victim and transported him for further medical treatment. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the incident. -- 2025-02-13

Gunmen Arrested After Firing 10 Shots at Factory Supervisor’s Home in Rayong Police in Nikhom Phatthana district, Rayong, have arrested two men suspected of firing 10 gunshots at the home of a factory supervisor. The attack, which occurred on 8 February at approximately 20:00, saw two gunmen on a motorcycle open fire on a house located along the Nong Saphan–Map Kha Road in Map Kha subdistrict. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351610-gunmen-arrested-after-firing-10-shots-at-factory-supervisor’s-home-in-rayong/

Picture from responders. Police in Nikhom Phatthana district, Rayong, have arrested two men suspected of firing 10 gunshots at the home of a factory supervisor. The attack, which occurred on 8 February at approximately 20:00, saw two gunmen on a motorcycle open fire on a house located along the Nong Saphan–Map Kha Road in Map Kha subdistrict. Upon arrival at the scene, officers from Nikhom Phatthana Police Station, alongside forensic investigators, discovered ten 9mm bullet casings scattered on the road. Several bullet holes were found in the garage door, and a white Toyota Alphard parked inside sustained damage from the gunfire. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Under the command of Pol. Col. Ramesh Chanasupakarn, officers launched an intensive four-day investigation, tracking the suspects’ movements and escape route. On 12 February, police apprehended two men, identified only as Mr. Ta, 34, and Mr. Deng, 34, in connection with the attack. Seized evidence included a black STEYR C9-A1 semi-automatic 9mm pistol, two magazines, a black firearm case, a black motorcycle helmet, and a black Honda CB650FA motorcycle with a Rayong licence plate. During questioning, Mr. Ta admitted to orchestrating the attack due to a personal grudge against the homeowner. He previously worked as a minibus driver transporting factory employees but had an altercation with the victim in early January. The dispute led to a formal complaint being lodged with his employer, preventing him from transferring to a different route. Frustrated, Mr. Ta resigned from his job. On the night of the shooting, Mr. Ta and Mr. Deng were drinking together at Mr. Ta’s residence. They began discussing the past conflict, which led them to plan the attack. Mr. Ta drove the motorcycle while Mr. Deng rode pillion. Upon reaching the house, Mr. Ta retrieved the firearm from his bag, chambered a round, and fired ten shots at the garage before the pair fled the scene. Both suspects are now in police custody and face multiple charges, including illegal possession of a firearm and attempted murder. The investigation remains ongoing. -- 2025-02-13

Construction Worker Killed as Wall Collapses in Bangkok A construction worker has died after a wall collapsed on him while he was dismantling a structure in Bangkok’s Phahonyothin 32 area. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351609-construction-worker-killed-as-wall-collapses-in-bangkok/

Picture from responders. A construction worker has died after a wall collapsed on him while he was dismantling a structure in Bangkok’s Phahonyothin 32 area. The incident occurred on 12 February, in Soi Phahonyothin 32 (Senanikom 1), where an old concrete wall, scheduled for demolition, suddenly gave way. The victim, a male construction worker from Myanmar, was trapped beneath the debris and found in a pool of blood. Rescue volunteers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation were swiftly dispatched to the scene. Emergency responders found the casualty buried under the rubble. Fearing further collapse, the surrounding structure was stabilised before the victim could be recovered. Responders manually removed the fallen debris and found the casualty had died from a serious head injury and crush injuries to the body. The victim, who’s details were not disclosed was transported to a local hospital for further examination and await relatives to claim his body. Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the collapse, and investigations are ongoing. -- 2025-02-13

Teenager in Sportswear Jumps from Bridge and Disappears into River A young man wearing what appeared to be a school sports uniform has jumped on 12 February, from the Maha Jesada Bodin Bridge in Nonthaburi and vanished beneath the surface of the Chao Phraya River, prompting an urgent search operation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351607-teenager-in-sportswear-jumps-from-bridge-and-disappears-into-river/

Picture from responders. A young man wearing what appeared to be a school sports uniform has jumped on 12 February, from the Maha Jesada Bodin Bridge in Nonthaburi and vanished beneath the surface of the Chao Phraya River, prompting an urgent search operation. Police from Mueang Nonthaburi Station received the distress call early morning and, along with volunteer rescue teams from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation, rushed to the scene to begin a search. The incident occurred in the middle of the Chao Phraya River, near the section leading to Tha Nam Non Pier. Rescue volunteers deployed boats and spent over an hour searching for the missing youth, but their efforts proved unsuccessful. A specialist diving team, Unit 4-00 from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation, was then called in to assist with the underwater search. The search for the young man is still ongoing, with no sign of his body yet recovered. Mr Taweesap Namphueng, 20, a student at a local college who was fishing on the bridge at the time, described the moment he saw the young man jump. "I noticed a teenager standing by the railing, wearing a purple sports shirt and black shorts. At first, he was just standing there, not doing anything suspicious. I looked away for a moment, and the next thing I knew, he had jumped off the bridge." Mr Taweesap rushed to the edge and saw the young man's head above the water for around two minutes before he disappeared. He observed no belongings left behind and saw no indication that the young man intended to jump beforehand. He quickly alerted the authorities. Police and rescue teams continue their efforts to locate the missing individual. 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. -- 2025-02-13

Delivery Driver Reports Gun Threat from Angry Customer Over Late Parcel A delivery driver has filed a police report after being threatened with a gun by an irate customer who was angry about a delayed parcel. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351605-delivery-driver-reports-gun-threat-from-angry-customer-over-late-parcel/

Picture captured from CCTV A delivery driver has filed a police report after being threatened with a gun by an irate customer who was angry about a delayed parcel. The incident came to light after a social media post warning about the dangers faced by delivery workers went viral. The post detailed how the driver’s younger brother, employed by a private courier company, was threatened by a customer who had been waiting for his package. The driver was allegedly confronted with a firearm in an aggressive altercation. The matter has now been reported to the Kok Kham Police Station. On February 12, reporters visited Mr Worawut, a 30-year-old delivery driver for a private logistics company operating in Phanthai Norasing, Mueang District, Samut Sakhon. Mr Worawut recounted that the incident occurred around 11:50 on February 11. He had been making deliveries when a customer called to demand immediate service at the entrance of Soi Yugo, Phanthai Norasing, Samut Sakhon. Before he could reach the location, the same customer phoned again, insisting that his parcel be delivered as a priority. The situation escalated, with the man allegedly threatening to strike the driver with a gun. “I told him, ‘Brother, I already said I’d call when I get there,’” Mr Worawut said. Following the delivery, the shaken driver sought more information about the customer. He discovered that the man, who had previously worked at a local recycling company, had ordered an item worth 219 baht via TikTok and had already made a payment on delivery. Mr Worawut subsequently filed a report at Kok Kham Police Station. Authorities have recorded the complaint and are pursuing the suspect, identified as Mr Somsak, a registered resident of Kanchanaburi who is believed to be living in Ban Khom. “I’ve been a delivery driver for over a year and have never encountered anything like this,” Mr Worawut said. “The worst I’ve faced before was being verbally abused. The world is changing, and we all need to be more cautious.” -- 2025-02-13

Death on Buddhist Holy Day: Three Motorcyclists Killed in Separate Crashes Three fatal motorcycle crashes occurred almost simultaneously in Samut Prakan on Makha Bucha Day, resulting in the deaths of three riders. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351603-death-on-buddhist-holy-day-three-motorcyclists-killed-in-separate-crashes/

Picture from responders. Three fatal motorcycle crashes occurred almost simultaneously in Samut Prakan on Makha Bucha Day, resulting in the deaths of three riders. First Incident: Street Racing Ends in Death. The first crash took place at around 02:00 on 12 February, on the outbound express lane of Theparak Road at kilometre 11 in Bang Phli Yai, Bang Phli District. Authorities from the Phra Nakhon radio centre dispatched rescue volunteers and emergency services to the scene. Upon arrival, they found the lifeless body of Mr Worachet, 28, who had been riding a Honda Wave 125 motorcycle registered in Bangkok. His vehicle was overturned on the right-hand lane, and his body lay nearby, his skull crushed after being run over by an 18-wheel lorry. Mr Yut, the driver of another, stationary 18-wheel lorry parked on the left lane due to brake issues, witnessed the incident. According to his statement, a group of five motorcyclists was racing at high speed in the far-right lane when they lost control, causing one bike to crash. “The victim was thrown into the middle lane and was run over by the rear wheels of a passing lorry. The driver stopped about 100 metres ahead before fleeing the scene,” Mr Yut recounted. Disturbingly, the victim’s friends briefly returned to check on him before leaving the scene, abandoning his body on the road. Mr Yut immediately contacted the authorities. Second Incident: Motorcyclist Crashes into Road Barrier At the same time, another fatal crash occurred on Bang Phli – Nam Daeng Road in Moo 2, Bang Kaeo, Bang Phli District. This area was under construction and lacked street lighting or warning signs. The victim, Mr Apithep, 29, was riding a Honda Scoopy motorcycle registered in Bangkok when he collided with two plastic road barriers. Rescue workers found his bike severely damaged in the middle of the road. His body lay nearby, with a broken neck and a fatal head injury. Debris from the shattered barriers was scattered over 50 metres. A witness, Mr Amnuan, 30, who was sitting near a roadside shop, saw the collision. “He was riding at high speed when he hit the barrier. His bike and the barrier flew together, and he was thrown off, landing head-first on the ground. My friends and I ran to check, but he was unresponsive, so we called the police,” he explained. Police from Bang Kaeo Station have sent the body for an autopsy at Ramathibodi Chakri Naruebodindra Hospital while they investigate further. Third Incident: Fatal Collision with a Lorry A third fatal crash occurred just minutes later on the parallel lane of Theparak Road at kilometre 29 in Bang Bo District. At the scene, officers discovered the body of Mr Thanapong, 47, who was still wearing the remains of his helmet. However, his skull had been crushed after being run over by an unidentified vehicle. His Yamaha motorcycle lay nearby. Mr Sorawit, a witness, reported that the victim had overtaken him moments earlier. Ahead, an 18-wheel lorry was parked and preparing to move, while another motorcycle carrying a couple was riding alongside it. “The victim tried to squeeze between the truck and the other motorcycle, but he clipped the couple’s bike and lost control. He fell directly under the truck’s wheels just as it started moving. It ran over his head, and the truck driver, apparently unaware, drove off,” Mr Sorawit explained. Shocked by what he had seen, he stopped his car and urged the couple to chase the truck, but both the truck and the couple quickly disappeared. He then called the authorities. All three fatal crashes occurred within minutes of each other on the night of Makha Bucha, a significant Buddhist holy day. Deputy Superintendent Pol Lt Col Suphat Prakanpitak from Bang Kaeo Police Station has confirmed that all cases are under investigation. The bodies have been sent for further examination at Ramathibodi Chakri Naruebodindra Hospital and police are working to identify and locate the lorry drivers involved. -- 2025-02-13

South Korean Drug Trafficker Arrested in Pattaya with Ice Hidden in Hollowed-Out Books Immigration and anti-narcotics officers have arrested a 51-year-old South Korean man wanted on an Interpol Red Notice for international drug trafficking. The suspect, identified as Mr. Lee Choun Sam, was apprehended at a condominium in Jomtien, Pattaya, where authorities discovered 150 grams of crystal methamphetamine hidden in a sophisticated smuggling setup. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351602-south-korean-drug-trafficker-arrested-in-pattaya-with-ice-hidden-in-hollowed-out-books/

Picture of arrest. Immigration and anti-narcotics officers have arrested a 51-year-old South Korean man wanted on an Interpol Red Notice for international drug trafficking. The suspect, identified as Mr. Lee Choun Sam, was apprehended at a condominium in Jomtien, Pattaya, where authorities discovered 150 grams of crystal methamphetamine hidden in a sophisticated smuggling setup. The arrest operation was carried out by Pol. Maj. Gen. Chairit Anurit, Commander of Immigration Division 3, alongside officers from Chonburi Immigration Police and the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB). Officers raided Room 834 on the 8th floor of a high-end condominium in Soi Thepprasit 9, where Lee had been hiding. During the search, officers found a large quantity of crystal meth, as well as small GPS tracking devices and packaging equipment. The suspect had devised an intricate smuggling method, hollowing out books to create hidden compartments for the drugs. He allegedly planned to send these packages from Thailand to South Korea as part of a larger drug trafficking network. Authorities also discovered that Lee had overstayed his visa and now faces charges, including: Possession and distribution of a Category 1 narcotic (crystal methamphetamine) with intent to sell, an offence deemed a threat to public safety and national security. Overstaying his visa, in violation of Thailand’s immigration laws. Lee was immediately detained and transferred to the Narcotics Suppression Bureau (NSB) for further legal proceedings. According to Pol. Col. Napaspong Khositsuriyamanee, Chief of Chonburi Immigration Police, Lee was working with his wife, who had already been arrested in South Korea for smuggling drugs into the country. Lee is believed to have sourced narcotics from foreign suppliers in Pattaya before concealing them in packages equipped with GPS trackers to facilitate international trafficking. Authorities confirmed that Lee remains wanted under an Interpol Red Notice for additional drug-related offences. Investigations are now underway to identify and arrest other members of his drug network. Police have reiterated their commitment to dismantling transnational criminal operations, particularly those using Thailand as a base for illegal activities. -- 2025-02-13

Authorities Launch Major Drug Crackdown, Seizing Assets Worth Over 118 Million Baht Authorities have carried out a large-scale operation to dismantle a major drug trafficking network, targeting 30 locations across five provinces. The operation, codenamed “Seal Stop Safe”, resulted in the seizure of assets worth over 118 million baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351601-authorities-launch-major-drug-crackdown-seizing-assets-worth-over-118-million-baht/

Picture courtesy of ONCB Authorities have carried out a large-scale operation to dismantle a major drug trafficking network, targeting 30 locations across five provinces. The operation, codenamed “Seal Stop Safe”, resulted in the seizure of assets worth over 118 million baht. The Royal Thai Police, in coordination with the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), the Border Patrol Police, the military, and local administrative officials, executed raids in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lamphun, Phayao, and Nong Khai. The primary focus was the “Cowboy Bo Kaeo” network, a major trafficking organisation operating along Thailand’s northern border. Deputy National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Prachuap Wongsuk, who led the operation, stated that the crackdown aimed to disrupt the supply chain of narcotics entering Thailand and to confiscate assets linked to drug trafficking. The initiative is part of the government’s strict anti-narcotics policy, focusing on border security, dismantling trafficking networks, and ensuring safer communities. The operation followed months of intelligence gathering, with law enforcement tracking the syndicate’s financial activities. Investigators discovered that traffickers laundered drug proceeds through real estate businesses, using relatives as nominees to hold assets. Authorities secured nine arrest warrants and apprehended eight suspects linked to the network. The operation led to the seizure of: • 10 houses and plots of land worth approximately 40 million baht • 18 additional land plots valued at 54 million baht • A 70-rai longan plantation worth 17.5 million baht • 11 vehicles worth 6.6 million baht • 5 motorcycles worth 200,000 baht The total value of confiscated assets stands at approximately 118.3 million baht. The operation was launched following a series of major drug seizures. On 4 December, authorities arrested four suspects in Chachoengsao province, seizing 999 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and 1,200 kilograms of ketamine. Another raid on 10 August in Chanthaburi province led to the arrest of 10 suspects and the seizure of 1,500 kilograms of ice. On 21 January 2025, authorities intercepted a shipment of 600 kilograms of ice in 30 sacks. Intelligence from these cases helped investigators map the network’s operations and identify key members. Pol. Gen. Prachuap emphasised that the police, in collaboration with military and administrative units, are committed to eradicating drug trafficking. The “Seal Stop Safe” strategy focuses on securing borders, disrupting supply chains, and ensuring public safety. Modern technology, including X-ray vehicle screening at checkpoints, is being deployed to enhance interdiction efforts. Authorities are also intensifying asset seizures to dismantle the financial backbone of major drug networks. The Royal Thai Police affirmed that the fight against narcotics will continue with full force, aiming to eliminate drug-related crime and safeguard communities across the country. -- 2025-02-13

Motorcycle Salesman Stabbed to Death in Nakhon Si Thammarat A 25-year-old motorcycle salesman was murdered in Nakhon Si Thammarat, with police suspecting multiple assailants and a personal motive behind the brutal killing. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351600-motorcycle-salesman-stabbed-to-death-in-nakhon-si-thammarat/

Picture from responders. A 25-year-old motorcycle salesman was murdered in Nakhon Si Thammarat, with police suspecting multiple assailants and a personal motive behind the brutal killing. At approximately 21:30 on 10 February, Lieutenant Sorasilp Kitwongwattana of Rangae Police Station was alerted to a fatal stabbing in Ban Bayo, Moo 8, Bajo Sato Subdistrict, Rangae District. Officers and rescue teams were dispatched to the scene, where they found a white Toyota car that had veered off the road. Inside the vehicle, they discovered the body of Hilmi, 25, a motorcycle salesman from Narathiwat. He had sustained five stab wounds: two to the left side of his chest, piercing his heart; two to his abdomen; and one to his left ribcage. His throat had also been tightly bound. Key evidence was found near the vehicle, including a green nylon rope, a pair of white gloves, and a ring under the driver's seat. A small dinosaur plush toy was also found inside the car. Bloodstains were discovered on the driver's seat, alongside a pair of glasses. A black clothing bag was found in the boot, and notably, the car's dashcam had been removed, suggesting an attempt to erase any recorded evidence. A witness living nearby reported seeing the car parked at the roadside, with an argument apparently taking place inside. Shortly thereafter, the vehicle rolled into a ditch. Concerned villagers alerted the village head, who contacted the police. Investigations revealed that at least two perpetrators were involved in the crime. Authorities suspect that Hilmi was in the car with them when a dispute escalated. One assailant, seated in the back, reportedly strangled him with the nylon rope, while the other, seated in the front, stabbed him multiple times. During the struggle, it is believed that Hilmi's foot pressed the accelerator, causing the car to veer off the road. After ensuring Hilmi was dead, the attackers removed the dashcam and fled on a waiting motorcycle under the cover of darkness. Given the premeditated nature of the attack, police believe the suspects were well-acquainted with the victim. A personal conflict is believed to be the likely motive, and authorities are actively pursuing leads to identify and apprehend those responsible. On 12 February, authorities reported the arrest of an 18-year-old man, identified as Abdulloh, who has confessed to the crime. Abdulloh admitted to strangling Hilmi and then stabbing him after a dispute involving a video Hilmi had filmed during an intimate encounter between the two. The investigation revealed that Abdulloh had attempted to have Hilmi delete the video, but when the two could not reach an agreement, the argument escalated. Abdulloh strangled Hilmi with a nylon rope, then repeatedly stabbed him. After the murder, Abdulloh removed the car's dashcam and fled into nearby woods, where he was eventually apprehended. Police are continuing to gather evidence and pursue additional suspects in the case. -- 2025-02-13

Speeding Pickup Truck Crashes into Shop, Flips Over, Injuring Two A high-speed crash in Nakhon Luang district, Ayutthaya province, left two people seriously injured after a pickup truck lost control, crashed into a shop, and flipped onto its roof. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the morning of 12 February, caused extensive damage to property and sent debris flying. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351598-speeding-pickup-truck-crashes-into-shop-flips-over-injuring-two/

Picture from responders. A high-speed crash in Nakhon Luang district, Ayutthaya province, left two people seriously injured after a pickup truck lost control, crashed into a shop, and flipped onto its roof. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the morning of 12 February, caused extensive damage to property and sent debris flying. Police Lieutenant Colonel Rakchat Prasopphon, an investigator at Nakhon Luang Police Station, reported that the crash took place in front of the Nakhon Luang Municipality office in Moo 2, Nakhon Luang subdistrict. Upon arrival at the scene, officers and rescue workers from the Ayutthaya Ruamjai Association found a severely damaged pickup truck upside down. The vehicle, registered in Saraburi province, had crashed into a shop, destroying items inside and toppling a petrol vending machine and a cash top-up kiosk. Inside the wrecked vehicle, two injured passengers were trapped: the driver, 22-year-old Peerapat, and his passenger, 22-year-old Chonthicha. Rescue teams worked swiftly to extract them before transporting them to Somdet Phra Sangharaj Hospital for urgent medical care. A local resident, 49-year-old Sunthorn, who lives near the crash site, recounted the terrifying moment. “I was awkoen when I heard a car speeding past my house, revving its engine loudly,” he said. “Moments later, there was a deafening crash. I knew right away that the car must have crashed, so I ran outside and saw the pickup overturned, covered in dust and debris. I immediately went to help the injured while calling the emergency services.” Srichan, the 38-year-old owner of the damaged shop, was also left shaken by the incident. “I was just about to sleep when I suddenly heard a loud noise. The truck lost control and slammed right into my shop, destroying the front entrance. I couldn’t even get outside because the truck had blocked the door,” he explained. “It wasn’t until the authorities arrived and forced open the door that I was able to get out. The damage is extensive, my shop, the vending machines, everything is in ruins. If it weren’t for the electricity pole blocking its path, the truck might have crashed straight through the shop and caused even more destruction,” he added. Preliminary investigations suggest that the driver was travelling at high speed, lost control, and veered across the median strip before ploughing into the shop. Authorities are conducting further inquiries to determine the exact cause of the crash and assess what legal action will be taken against the driver. -- 2025-02-13

Foreign Hotel Manager Arrested for Illegal E-Cigarette & Smuggled Cigarette Sales Authorities have arrested three individuals, including a foreign hotel manager, for illegally selling e-cigarettes and smuggled cigarettes at a hotel on Ko Pha Ngan. A significant quantity of contraband was seized during the operation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351597-foreign-hotel-manager-arrested-for-illegal-e-cigarette-smuggled-cigarette-sales/

Picture of arrest. Authorities have arrested three individuals, including a foreign hotel manager, for illegally selling e-cigarettes and smuggled cigarettes at a hotel on Ko Pha Ngan. A significant quantity of contraband was seized during the operation. At 18:30 on 11 February, Lieutenant General Saksira Phuekam, Commissioner of the Tourist Police, ordered a crackdown on foreign nationals engaging in illegal businesses and taking jobs from Thai citizens. The operation, led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Winij Boonchit of the Tourist Police Division 5, was conducted in coordination with the local administrative authorities and immigration police on Ko Pha Ngan. Authorities had received reports that a hotel in Ban Tai subdistrict was illegally selling untaxed cigarettes and e-cigarettes near an educational institution. Upon inspection, officers found a display at the hotel’s bar featuring various cigarette and e-cigarette brands that are not legally sold in Thailand. Police questioned two suspects: Phakorn, a Thai national and assistant hotel manager, and Ivan, a Serbian national who served as the hotel’s manager. Both admitted to being involved in the sale of the illegal products, which were confiscated by the authorities. Phakorn and Ivan confessed to purchasing the contraband cigarettes from a Bulgarian associate for 20,000 baht and selling them to hotel guests. E-cigarettes were sold for 600 baht each, while cigarettes were priced at 100 baht per pack. The two shared the profits equally. A third suspect, Ashley, nationality not disclosed, was also arrested. She admitted to working illegally, as she was in Thailand on a tourist visa and did not have a work permit. Ivan had hired her as a receptionist in exchange for free accommodation and meals. The suspects were charged with smuggling, illegal sales, and handling untaxed goods without proper customs clearance or authorisation. Lieutenant General Saksira Phuekam has instructed tourist police in key tourism hotspots to intensify crackdowns on foreign nationals involved in illegal activities. Authorities aim to take strict legal action to uphold Thailand’s tourism reputation and ensure a safe and lawful environment during the high season. -- 2025-02-13

Factory Worker’s Car Fatally Strikes Woman Who Was Avoiding Pedestrian Bridge A 50-year-old woman was killed instantly after being hit by a car while crossing the road beneath a pedestrian bridge in Bang Lamung district, Chonburi. The incident occurred at approximately 22:05 on 11 February, on Highway 331, inbound towards Sattahip, near Moo 5, Takhian Tia subdistrict. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351561-factory-worker’s-car-fatally-strikes-woman-who-was-avoiding-pedestrian-bridge/

Picture from responders. A 50-year-old woman was killed instantly after being hit by a car while crossing the road beneath a pedestrian bridge in Bang Lamung district, Chonburi. The incident occurred at approximately 22:05 on 11 February, on Highway 331, inbound towards Sattahip, near Moo 5, Takhian Tia subdistrict. Pattaya Sawang Boriboon Rescue Centre received reports of the collision and coordinated with officers from Bang Lamung Police Station. Rescue personnel and police officers were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, authorities found a blue Mitsubishi Lancer with front-end damage, bearing the registration plate from Bangkok. The driver, identified as 45-year-old Komsan Sriphiu, a factory worker, remained at the scene to provide a statement. Nearby, the lifeless body of Issaree Kamphongphawat, 50, lay on the road. Rescue workers covered her body with a white sheet and secured the area to prevent public interference. According to Komsan, he was driving home when the collision occurred. He explained that the area was poorly lit, and while he noticed someone crossing the road ahead, he did not see the victim following behind. The collision was unavoidable, and despite his immediate efforts to seek help, the woman succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Some friends of the deceased revealed that they had been on their way to the annual fair at Pong Saked Temple. While some the friends used the pedestrian bridge, the victim and one other chose to cross the road, believing there was little traffic. Unfortunately, they miscalculated the situation. Pol. Lt. Pipat Damrongsukij, an investigator from Bang Lamung Police Station, recorded evidence at the scene and is reviewing CCTV footage to determine the exact circumstances of the incident. Meanwhile, the victim’s body has been transported to Pattaya Patthana Kun Hospital, where her relatives will be required to present documentation. Authorities urge pedestrians to use designated crossings, particularly pedestrian bridges, to prevent similar incidents. -- 2025-02-12

Big Joke Files Complaint Against Police Chief Over Alleged Dereliction of Duty Picture courtesy of ThaiRath. Pol. Gen. Surachate “Big Joke” Hakparn has lodged a formal complaint against National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kitrat Phanphet, accusing him of failing to carry out his duties under Section 157 of the Criminal Code. The complaint was filed at Pathumwan Police Station on the afternoon of 11 February. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1351557-big-joke-files-complaint-against-police-chief-over-alleged-dereliction-of-duty/