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6 Border Checkpoints & 10 Cross-Border Trade Points with Cambodia to Close Amid Tensions Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The government is preparing to temporarily shut six permanent border checkpoints and ten cross-border trade points along the Thai-Cambodian border following heightened tensions stemming from a recent military skirmish. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362340-6-border-checkpoints-10-cross-border-trade-points-with-cambodia-to-close-amid-tensions/

Any Thai citizen can apply for permission to carry a gun, under the Firearms, Ammunition, Explosives, Fireworks, and Imitation Firearms Act B.E. 2490 (1947) and its subsequent amendments, providing they meet specific conditions and requirements. Applications are normally made on POR 1, application form , at a district office. No permission to carry a gun, then it is an offence under Thai Criminal Code, Section 371. So nothing strange. https://www.thailawforum.com/database1/Thailand-Gun-Law-Act.html

UPDATE Man Surrenders After Family Feud Turns Deadly: Three Shot Dead in Suphan Buri Rampage Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 32-year-old tattoo artist, identified as Mr. Paiboon or “Bas”, has surrendered to police after shooting dead three of his relatives and injuring another in a violent incident sparked by a long-standing family dispute in U Thong district, Suphan Buri province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362256-manhunt-underway-for-suspect-in-deadly-u-thong-family-shooting/#findComment-19837504

UPDATE Man Surrenders After Family Feud Turns Deadly: Three Shot Dead in Suphan Buri Rampage Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 32-year-old tattoo artist, identified as Mr. Paiboon or “Bas”, has surrendered to police after shooting dead three of his relatives and injuring another in a violent incident sparked by a long-standing family dispute in U Thong district, Suphan Buri province. According to police reports, the shooting occurred at a family residence in Ban Don sub-district. The victims, all relatives of the suspect, including an uncle and other extended family members, were fatally shot after a heated argument turned violent. One additional person was reportedly injured while trying to intervene. Police units from Suphan Buri Provincial Investigation Division, working in coordination with Region 7 officers, launched an extensive manhunt. Mr. Bas, who had gone into hiding locally, later contacted the local sub-district chief to arrange his surrender. At approximately 17:30 on 30 May, he was taken into custody. Upon arrival at Saraya Som Police Station at 18:30, Bas appeared visibly distressed and refused to speak to the media. He was interrogated personally by Pol Maj Gen Watcharin Prasopdee, Commander of Suphan Buri Provincial Police, in the presence of his mother and other family members. The session lasted approximately two hours. In his initial statement, the suspect cited a prolonged and escalating family conflict as the motive. He claimed tensions had been building for one to two years, originating from minor arguments and fuelled further by unresolved disputes over a two-rai plot of land. Mr. Bas alleged that the victims had previously attacked his parents and damaged their property, and on the day of the incident, a disagreement over the construction of a carport triggered a physical altercation. He claimed he shot in self-defence after seeing a relative attempt to retrieve a knife. However, relatives of the deceased challenged this version of events. Mr. Sompong, 60, husband of one of the deceased victims, said: “There have always been tensions, but he’s the one who started fights over inheritance that’s barely worth anything. He was always paranoid and easily provoked. The knife she was carrying wasn’t to attack him, she was going to cut banana trees like she usually does. Then he shoots innocent people who were just trying to stop the fight?” At 21:00 police announced they had formally charged Mr. Bas with four serious offences: murder, attempted murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition and carrying a firearm in a public place without permission. Investigators are also examining the illegal weapon used in the attack. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-31.

Drunk, Abusive Police Sergeant Suspended After Assaulting Traffic Officer in Chiang Mai Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A police officer in Chiang Mai has been suspended from service pending a disciplinary investigation, after a shocking incident in which he was caught on camera drunkenly assaulting a fellow traffic police officer. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362322-drunk-abusive-police-sergeant-suspended-after-assaulting-traffic-officer-in-chiang-mai/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A police officer in Chiang Mai has been suspended from service pending a disciplinary investigation, after a shocking incident in which he was caught on camera drunkenly assaulting a fellow traffic police officer. The incident, which took place on 27 May at approximately 11:00 at the Ton Pao Phatthana intersection in San Kamphaeng District, Chiang Mai, involved Police Sergeant Major Sirawat (also known as Bantat), attached to the Special Operations Division of the Region 5 Provincial Police. According to the official order No. 204/2568 issued by the Region 5 Investigation Division, Pol. Sgt. Maj. Sirawat was found to be heavily intoxicated while driving, resulting in a minor collision with another vehicle. When officers from San Kamphaeng Police Station arrived to investigate, he allegedly exited his vehicle and began hurling obscenities at the traffic police officers, challenged their authority, and escalated matters by physically assaulting one of them causing injury. A viral video of the incident has drawn widespread condemnation from the public, prompting swift action from police leadership. In response to the misconduct, the Region 5 commander launched a formal disciplinary inquiry under Order No. 203/2568 and moved to temporarily remove Sirawat from duty, citing serious disciplinary violations. The order stated that his actions severely tarnished the image of the Royal Thai Police and compromised public trust in law enforcement. The decision to suspend him is grounded in the Royal Thai Police Regulations on Disciplinary Action and Suspension (B.E. 2547), specifically Clause 3(1), which permits removal from office when an officer is under investigation for criminal or serious disciplinary offences, particularly where their continued presence could damage the integrity of the force. Officials noted that Sirawat’s position entrusted him with maintaining law and order and ensuring public safety, responsibilities he is now accused of flagrantly violating. Under the authority granted by Sections 105, 131, and 179 of the National Police Act B.E. 2564, and Clause 8 of the relevant disciplinary regulations, the order concluded that Pol. Sgt. Maj. Sirawat is to be suspended from the Royal Thai Police, pending the outcome of a full disciplinary review. The order takes effect immediately. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-31.

AI Surveillance Helps Thai Tourist Police Arrest Over 180 Criminals Pictures courtesy of Matichon. The Tourist Police have successfully deployed cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology to enhance tourist safety, resulting in the arrest of over 180 individuals with outstanding warrants, according to a government briefing held at Government House today. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362321-ai-surveillance-helps-thai-tourist-police-arrest-over-180-criminals/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon. The Tourist Police have successfully deployed cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology to enhance tourist safety, resulting in the arrest of over 180 individuals with outstanding warrants, according to a government briefing held at Government House today. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra presided over the meeting on 30 May, accompanied by Suwong Tienthong, Minister of Tourism and Sports and senior police officials including Pol. Gen. Akkaradech Pimolsri, Special Advisor to the Royal Thai Police, Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-am, Commissioner of the Tourist Police, and Pol. Lt. Gen. Phanumas Boonyalak, Immigration Bureau Commissioner. During the session, Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira outlined a series of security measures now in place to reassure visitors and protect Thailand’s tourism sector. These include: 1. The establishment of the Tourist Safety Operations Centre (TSOC) in coordination with police forces nationwide. 2. The continued rollout of the Thailand Tourist Police mobile app and 24-hour helpline (1155). 3. The use of AI-integrated cameras and mobile units, already responsible for arresting 184 suspects. 4. AI-assisted monitoring of social media to track incidents affecting tourists. 5. Strengthened cooperation with foreign embassies and expanded volunteer training for tourist police assistants. Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira emphasised the force’s commitment to Prime Minister Paetongtarn’s modernisation agenda for law enforcement, particularly in crime prevention and rapid response through technology. Since July 2024, AI surveillance systems have been installed in major tourist hotspots, where they cross-reference facial recognition data against criminal databases. The first arrest linked to the AI system took place on 19 July 2024. Since then, arrests have totalled: • Pattaya, Chonburi – 102 individuals • Chiang Mai – 54 individuals • Nakhon Ratchasima – 21 individuals • Suvarnabhumi Airport, Samut Prakan – 3 individuals Additionally, over 600 high-risk individuals, including pickpocket gangs, illegal currency exchangers and repeat offenders, both Thai and foreign, have been identified and logged in the system. If any of these individuals enter key tourist zones, AI monitoring systems immediately alert authorities for surveillance and preventative action. Authorities confirmed plans to expand the AI surveillance networkto more tourist areas across the country, underscoring Thailand’s efforts to build confidence among international travellers and ensure their safety. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-31.

UPDATE Missing Woman Found Safe in Pattaya After Weeks of Concern Picture courtesy of Matichon. After weeks of concern, 43-year-old Ms. Metinee Julmantana, known as “May”, who had been reported missing from Pattaya earlier this month, has been found safe and well. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362072-discovery-of-human-skull-in-chachoengsao-spark-investigation/#findComment-19837457

UPDATE Missing Woman Found Safe in Pattaya After Weeks of Concern Picture courtesy of Matichon. After weeks of concern, 43-year-old Ms. Metinee Julmantana, known as “May”, who had been reported missing from Pattaya earlier this month, has been found safe and well. The woman, a native of Songkhla Province, had last been in contact with her family in early May. Fearing for her safety, her relatives filed a missing person report with Pattaya City Police, sparking an intense search effort that gained considerable public attention. Concerns escalated when unverified rumours linked her disappearance to the discovery of human skull fragments belonging to a woman in Chachoengsao Province, prompting fears of a possible connection. Following an in-depth investigation by detectives from Pattaya City Police and Region 2 Provincial Police, phone signal tracking and financial transactions led authorities to a man named Mr. Kowit, also known as “Peach”, a 38-year-old motorcycle taxi driver in Central Pattaya and reportedly a close acquaintance of May. On the afternoon of 30 May, at around 15:30, police and members of the press arrived at Mr. Kowit’s residence in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi, just 300 metres from where May’s phone signal had last been detected. Upon questioning, Mr. Kowit admitted that May was upstairs. Shortly after, she appeared, visibly shocked by the presence of police and media. She was dressed in a red shirt, shorts, and had a pink towel wrapped around her head. May explained that she had lost her phone on 7 May and was unaware she had become the subject of intense media attention. She denied being in a romantic relationship with Mr. Kowit, stating they were only close friends. “I’m very sorry to my family and to everyone who was worried about me,” she said. “Thank you to the police officers who worked so hard to find me.” When reporters informed her cousin, Mr. Mit (or “Ton”), he responded emotionally, his voice trembling: “I didn’t know what to do.” During a brief phone call, May reassured him: “Don’t worry. I’m safe.” Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-31.

Woman Arrested at Airport Over Online Gambling & Money Laundering Scheme Worth 500 Million Picture courtesy of Workpoint. Immigration officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport have arrested a 35-year-old Thai woman wanted on charges of operating an illegal online gambling network and laundering more than 500 million baht. The suspect was apprehended in the early hours of 30 May as she attempted to flee the country. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362318-woman-arrested-at-airport-over-online-gambling-money-laundering-scheme-worth-500-million/

Picture courtesy of Workpoint. Immigration officers at Suvarnabhumi Airport have arrested a 35-year-old Thai woman wanted on charges of operating an illegal online gambling network and laundering more than 500 million baht. The suspect was apprehended in the early hours of 30 May as she attempted to flee the country. Acting on a warrant issued by the Criminal Court (No. 379/2568, dated 20 January 2025), officers from the Immigration Bureau’s Division 2, under the direction of Police Lieutenant General Panumas Boonyalak, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, and Police Major General Thanit Thaiwatcharamat, Deputy Commissioner, coordinated the arrest. The suspect, identified as Ms Siriporn, was intercepted by undercover officers while passing through immigration control for EVA Air flight BR206, bound for Taiwan. Intelligence sources had alerted authorities to her planned escape. Upon arrest, officers charged Ms Siriporn with multiple serious offences, including: • Organising and promoting unauthorised electronic gambling • Inducing others to participate in online gambling without official permission • Conspiring with two or more persons to commit money laundering • Committing money laundering as part of a criminal conspiracy Investigators from the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) confirmed that Ms Siriporn was involved in operating bank accounts used by online gambling platforms, with financial transactions exceeding 500 million baht. She was taken into custody and transferred to the TCSD for further interrogation and legal proceedings. Authorities are now working to trace the wider financial network and identify other members of the criminal syndicate. Officials stressed that the arrest is part of a broader crackdown on cybercrime and illegal financial activities, with further arrests expected as the investigation progresses. Adapted by Asean Now from Workpoint 2025-05-31.

DSI Raids on International Scammer Gang Fronting as Legitimate Business Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has dismantled a major international scam operation using a Bangkok-based import-export company as a front, with estimated damages exceeding 2 billion baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362317-dsi-raids-on-international-scammer-gang-fronting-as-legitimate-business/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has dismantled a major international scam operation using a Bangkok-based import-export company as a front, with estimated damages exceeding 2 billion baht. DSI officers led by Pol. Lt. Col. Wisanu Chimtrakool, Deputy Director-General of the DSI, and Pol. Lt. Col. Khemachart Prakaikhongmanee, Director of the Bureau of Technology and Information Cases, executed court-approved search warrant No. 402/2568 at a warehouse located at 19/3 Soi Phetchaburi 13 Yaek 1, Phayathai district, Bangkok. The premises were registered as Falcon Junior Export Cargo Co., Ltd., a two-storey facility with office space above and storage below. At the scene, officers arrested 55-year-old Nigerian national Mr. Lewinus Masduabusudu Akeebuchi, the company’s owner and a prime suspect in a broader transnational scam ring. He was wanted under Criminal Court warrant No. 3031/2568 issued on 27 May 2025. Mr. Akeebuchi faces multiple serious charges including participation in a transnational criminal organisation, computer-related fraud, impersonation for fraudulent gain, money laundering and conspiracy to launder money. The raid was part of a coordinated operation involving 11 search locations nationwide, resulting in the arrest of seven suspects linked to an online scam network. Authorities believe the gang operated thousands of fake websites offering non-existent products and services, duping victims, both in Thailand and abroad. Investigations revealed that the scam dates back to the early COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, during which the suspects posed as suppliers of essential medical goods, such as face masks and gloves. The front company was allegedly used to lure victims into fraudulent investments, falsely presenting itself as a legitimate business while engaging in suspiciously high-volume financial transactions that did not match declared revenues. Authorities said “mule accounts” were used to receive illicit funds, which were later converted into cryptocurrency. Losses from the operation are estimated at over ฿2 billion, with approximately 30 victims from various countries. On the day of the raid, a Vietnamese national who lost over ฿8 million also attended to observe the proceedings. Searches were conducted across Bangkok and surrounding areas, as well as in Nakhon Pathom, Krabi, Kanchanaburi, and Chanthaburi. Among the arrested were three foreign nationals, two Nigerians apprehended in Bangkok and Chanthaburi and a Cameroonian English teacher caught in Krabi, along with four Thai nationals. Authorities confirmed that 24 arrest warrants had been issued in connection with the case. DSI’s Pol. Lt. Col. Khemachart stated the department had been investigating the gang since the onset of the pandemic but formally accepted the case as a special investigation two years ago. Multiple agencies collaborated, employing forensic evidence and digital intelligence. Items seized included vehicles, cash and cryptocurrency. Authorities plan to transfer assets to Thailand’s Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) for restitution to victims through civil proceedings. During the operation, DSI teams initially encountered a locked warehouse and no response from within. Officers forced entry and later discovered two Nigerian nationals hiding beneath a staircase. The suspects are currently in custody as the investigation expands into the full extent of the network and its financial trail. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-31.

UPDATE Politician Faces New Charges for Obstructing Election Officials in Songkhla Picture courtesy of Matichon. Sirdonai Plaiduang, better known as “Sor Golf”, a provincial councillor in Songkhla, is now facing additional criminal charges along with nine associates. The charges stem from an incident during the recent local elections, in which they are accused of obstructing the duties of polling station officials. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360410-son-of-prominent-mp-sparks-violence-at-songkhla-polling-station/#findComment-19837441

UPDATE Politician Faces New Charges for Obstructing Election Officials in Songkhla Picture courtesy of Matichon. Sirdonai Plaiduang, better known as “Sor Golf”, a provincial councillor in Songkhla, is now facing additional criminal charges along with nine associates. The charges stem from an incident during the recent local elections, in which they are accused of obstructing the duties of polling station officials. At 13:30 on 30 May, Pol.Lt.Col. Somnuek Kunmanee, Director of the Songkhla Election Commission, formally lodged a police complaint at Mueang Songkhla Police Station. Acting under the authority granted by the Election Commission of Thailand (EC), Kunmanee filed the report with Pol.Lt.Col. Somnuek Hantongsri, Deputy Superintendent of Investigation, Division 6, Crime Suppression Division. The complaint names ten individuals, including: 1. Mr. Sirdonai Plaiduang (Sor Golf) 2. Mr. Sasarun Sangaban-Khok 3. Mr. Nopphongthep Wadwilai 4. Mr. Numsek Thongsri 5. Mr. Jakkrapong Thepchoom 6. Mr. Rapeepong Sawatjukaew 7. Mr. Sarayut Noochaikaew 8. Mr. Wuttinan Nakasuwan 9. Mr. Aranop Khaomak 10. Mr. Faisol Saisalam According to the EC, the group used force to interfere with the lawful responsibilities of election officials during polling in Phawong Subdistrict, Mueang District, Songkhla Province, on 11 May 2025. The actions allegedly violated multiple legal provisions, including: • Section 66, paragraph 2, of the Organic Act on the Election Commission B.E. 2560 (2017) • Article 155 of the 2019 EC Regulations on Local Elections • Section 368 of the Thai Criminal Code • Sections 364 and 365(2) of the Thai Criminal Code concerning unlawful entry into a government premises and acting in concert with others The case includes allegations of assault on Pol.Sgt.Maj. Nisathit Kongthep, a border patrol officer assigned to election duty, who sustained injuries during the altercation. All ten suspects have since been arrested under warrants issued after sufficient evidence was gathered by investigators. Further charges may be filed as the investigation continues. The police have been instructed to proceed with all necessary legal action until the matter is concluded in court. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-31.

Man Arrested for Fatal Shooting in Samut Sakhon – Claims Self-Defence Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 39-year-old man has been arrested for the fatal shooting of a Phetchabun native in a rented room in Samut Sakhon province. The suspect claimed he acted in a fit of rage after the victim allegedly stole from him and assaulted his family. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362316-man-arrested-for-fatal-shooting-in-samut-sakhon-–-claims-self-defence/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 39-year-old man has been arrested for the fatal shooting of a Phetchabun native in a rented room in Samut Sakhon province. The suspect claimed he acted in a fit of rage after the victim allegedly stole from him and assaulted his family. The incident took place at around 10:10 on 28 May in Om Noi Subdistrict, Krathum Baen District. The victim, Mr Suchart, 38, was shot once in the right cheek with the bullet exiting through the left side of his neck. He succumbed to his injuries shortly after. Police from Samut Sakhon Provincial Police, led by Pol. Maj. Gen. Teeradej Athipakakul, coordinated the arrest on 30 May, of the suspect, Mr Teerawit, also known as “Ek”, following his voluntary surrender. Officers from Krathum Baen Police Station and the Provincial Investigation Division were also involved in the operation. Mr Teerawit reportedly contacted the provincial police commander directly to arrange his surrender. After turning himself in, he confessed to the shooting during questioning. According to police, Mr Teerawit stated that he had acted in retaliation after the victim, Mr Suchart, allegedly committed theft and physically assaulted members of his family. He claimed that this provoked him to use a firearm in anger, resulting in the fatal shooting. Following the interrogation, police formally charged Mr Teerawit with murder. He was transferred to Krathum Baen Police Station for further legal proceedings. Authorities are continuing their investigation and will collect additional evidence to establish the full circumstances surrounding the case. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-31.

3 Female Municipal Officers Arrested for Forging Documents to Illegally Withdraw Money Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Three female municipal employees in Phichit province have been arrested at their workplace after being found guilty of forging documents using the identities of vulnerable citizens to fraudulently obtain credit cards and cash withdrawals totalling over 2 million baht. One suspect admitted to using the money to pay offunderground debt and gamble on online lotteries. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362315-3-female-municipal-officers-arrested-for-forging-documents-to-illegally-withdraw-money/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Three female municipal employees in Phichit province have been arrested at their workplace after being found guilty of forging documents using the identities of vulnerable citizens to fraudulently obtain credit cards and cash withdrawals totalling over 2 million baht. One suspect admitted to using the money to pay off underground debt and gamble on online lotteries. The arrests were carried out by a team led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Witiya Sriprasertphap, Commander of the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), in cooperation with senior officers from Division 4 of the Crime Suppression Division and representatives of Kiatnakin Bank. The suspects, Ms. Nucharee (42), a financial officer, Ms. Julaporn (55), a general affairs officer and Ms. Amornrat (51), a data entry assistant, were apprehended under arrest warrants issued by the Criminal Court on 27 May 2025. They face charges of fraud, forgery and use of forged documents and misuse of electronic banking cards belonging to others. Seized from the suspects’ municipal office were 507 debt notices in other people’s names, 116 credit and cash cards belonging to other individuals, 35 sets of photocopied ID cards and household registrations and two desktop computers. According to police, the suspects began the scheme in mid-2024. Posing as government agents offering aid, they approached vulnerable citizens, including disabled individuals, bedridden patients, and low-income families and convinced them to hand over personal identification and banking documents. The suspects then used image editing software to superimpose the victims’ faces onto official government employee templates and fabricated income certificates and bank statements, falsely portraying the victims as salaried civil servants with substantial financial activity. These forged documents were submitted to various financial institutions to apply for personal loan credit cards. Once approved, the cards, issued under the victims’ names, were sent to the suspects’ office, where they were used to withdraw cash for personal use. Pol. Col. Eksit Pansita, one of the lead investigators, said suspicions arose when Kiatnakin Phatra Bank and Kasikornbank noticed unusually high volumes of loan applications, around 40 cases, linked to the same municipal office in Phichit. Investigations revealed that most applicants were unaware their identities had been used, prompting the banks to alert the CIB. It was discovered that the suspects had exploited the victims’ identities to withdraw funds, typically up to 50,000 baht per card, since 2024. The total damages currently stand at approximately 2 million baht. To avoid detection, the trio made minimum monthly payments on the accounts to conceal abnormal activity. During questioning, Ms. Nucharee admitted her involvement, stating she needed the money to repay underground debts and fund online gambling. The other two suspects denied the charges. All three have been transferred to the Crime Suppression Division for prosecution. Mr. Napat Thepthai, a Kiatnakin Bank representative, issued a public warning: “Personal identification documents, especially ID cards, are vital when applying for loans. Handing them over to others comes with serious risks, as this case demonstrates.” He advised any potential victims to urgently contact the banks involved. If found to be innocent, the fraudulent contracts would be cancelled, credit histories cleared and legal action taken against the offenders. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-31.

UPDATE Fake Run Scandal: Victims Appeal to Lawyers’ Council for Legal Action Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Over a thousand participants who fell victim to the fraudulent “Run For Destination 2025” event are seeking justice through Thailand’s Lawyers’ Council, after the much-anticipated run failed to materialise on 25 May as promised. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361715-runners-baffled-as-phantom-run-lacks-organisers-confusion-over-“run-for-destination-2025”/#findComment-19837429

UPDATE Fake Run Scandal: Victims Appeal to Lawyers’ Council for Legal Action Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Over a thousand participants who fell victim to the fraudulent “Run For Destination 2025” event are seeking justice through Thailand’s Lawyers’ Council, after the much-anticipated run failed to materialise on 25 May as promised. The race, scheduled to take place at Suan Luang Rama IX Park in Bangkok, turned out to be a sham, with no event infrastructure, organisers or staff present on the day. Participants, many of whom had paid substantial registration fees, were left dismayed and angry, with some international runners expressing particular embarrassment over the incident. A group representing the victims appeared at the Lawyers’ Council of Thailand on Phahonyothin Road on 30 May, requesting both legal guidance and action. According to Mr. Sunthorn Payak, Secretary-General of the Council, the body will assess whether the case qualifies for criminal prosecution, such as fraud and is prepared to assist in civil proceedings as well. “Initially, we will hear the full account from the victims to determine if the organiser’s actions constitute a criminal offence. There is no issue in pursuing a civil case, but we must first establish the extent of legal wrongdoing,” Mr. Sunthorn stated. One of the victims, Mr. Sun, shared that warning signs emerged the day before the race, during scheduled kit collection. Many runners received only race numbers without accompanying shirts, while some received nothing at all. There was no evidence of race set-up or personnel, raising suspicions among attendees. The organiser had previously postponed the race, citing insufficient registrants and reopened sign-ups for 5km, 10km, and VIP categories, the latter promising items such as running shoes, watches and medals. Despite repeated assurances on social media that the event would proceed, no race occurred on the day. Following the fiasco, victims filed complaints at Prawet Police Station. However, police have yet to file formal charges against the organisers. The situation drew national attention after victims appeared on a prominent talk show, where a representative of the organisers phoned in and vaguely promised compensation, conditional on deducting company expenses. Since then, there has been no further communication or public statement from the organisers. Ms. Sarintorn, a lawyer assisting the victims, said the case might involve either standard fraud or fraud against the public and coordination with investigating officers is likely. Civil suits, she confirmed, can be initiated immediately. The Lawyers’ Council is considering hosting a mediation between both parties as a preliminary step. Mr. Sunthorn concluded that a working group will be established to determine applicable legal violations, including potential offences under Thailand’s Computer Crime Act. However, mediation remains the preferred initial approach, with both sides to be invited to a reconciliation centre under the Council’s supervision. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-31.

Woman Extradited from Bahrain Over Human Trafficking Charges Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 57-year-old woman has been extradited from Bahrain to face charges of human trafficking after allegedly luring young Thai women into forced prostitution under the guise of legitimate employment. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362314-woman-extradited-from-bahrain-over-human-trafficking-charges/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 57-year-old woman has been extradited from Bahrain to face charges of human trafficking after allegedly luring young Thai women into forced prostitution under the guise of legitimate employment. Ms Aichaliya, a Thai national, was taken into custody at Suvarnabhumi Airport upon arrival on Gulf Air flight GF152 from Manama, Bahrain, at 10:30 on 29 May. She is wanted under two warrants issued by the Thai Criminal Court in connection with a cross-border human trafficking network operating between Thailand and Bahrain. Pol. Lt. Gen. Phanumart Boonyalak, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, and Pol. Maj. Gen. Cherngron Rimphadee, Commander of Immigration Division 2, oversaw the coordinated arrest following cooperation with Thailand’s Office of the Attorney General and Bahraini authorities. The arrest follows an extradition request made by Thai authorities, which was approved by Bahrain’s criminal justice system. The case was facilitated by the Office of International Affairs and Interpol, who coordinated the suspect’s return under extradition law. According to investigators, Ms Aichaliya was part of a network that operated between 2016 and 2017, recruiting Thai women to work in Bahrain under the pretext of jobs in massage parlours and hospitality. Upon arrival, victims had their passports confiscated, were isolated from contact with family, and were coerced, through threats, physical violence, and detention, into providing sexual services in establishments in Manama. Survivors of the trafficking operation reported being forced to service multiple clients per day, with all earnings seized by the network. They also recounted being denied communication with the outside world, physically abused and closely guarded to prevent escape. The charges against Ms Aichaliya include conspiracy to traffic persons, procuring and deceiving individuals for prostitution, and illegal detention and confinement with intent to exploit. Authorities confirmed that she was part of a multi-tiered criminal structure, involving recruiters in Thailand, coordinators and enforcers in Bahrain. Officials described the arrest as a major success in the ongoing fight against transnational human trafficking. The operation involved close coordination between the Royal Thai Police, the Office of the Attorney General and the Bahraini branch of Interpol. Following her arrest, Ms Aichaliya was informed of her rights and transferred to the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Division (ATP), where she will face prosecution under Thai law. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-31.

Real Estate Firm Denies Links to Chinese ‘Grey Capital’ in Pattaya Controversy Picture courtesy of TMN The management of Baidi International (Pattaya) Real Estate Asset Management Co., Ltd. has firmly denied any connection to alleged Chinese “grey capital” investment networks, following a wave of online speculation and media reports. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362313-real-estate-firm-denies-links-to-chinese-‘grey-capital’-in-pattaya-controversy/