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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. Mr Kham Saeyang, a company director, clarified that recent accusations stemmed from a misunderstanding regarding the financial transactions of certain property buyers. According to Mr Kham, some buyers may have used Chinese nationals with Thai bank accounts to transfer funds when purchasing real estate. However, he stressed that such transactions were conducted through legitimate banking channels and the company had no authority to verify the origin of the funds. “The company has no ties to Chinese grey capital. We are not a nominee for any foreign entity,” Mr Kham stated. “All shareholders and directors are 100% Thai. There is absolutely no foreign control over the company.” Mr Kham also addressed concerns regarding the firm’s employment structure. Out of 86 staff members, 76 are Thai (90%), while 10% are legally employed foreign nationals. The company assured that all foreign workers were hired in compliance with Thai labour regulations. He further clarified a recent incident and inspection, in which three Chinese nationals were found on the premises during an official inspection. These individuals, Mr Kham explained, had already resigned from the company and were merely visiting to close their personal WeChat accounts. “It was a misunderstanding. These individuals were no longer employees and were not engaged in any work-related activity,” he said. Bidi International provides a range of real estate services, including condominium and village cleaning, property brokerage, and post-sale support such as maintenance and cleaning under a fully legal structure. Mr Kham emphasised that the firm operates under lawful agency contracts, with all payments transferred to the company’s accounts for processing, including tax, transfer fees and commissions. The company claims to have built a solid reputation among a broad client base, not only among Chinese investors but also Thai nationals and clients from several other countries. Due to the damage to the company’s image and client trust caused by the false allegations, Bidi International is now preparing legal action against certain social media pages and news outlets that it accuses of spreading misleading or defamatory information. “We have always cooperated fully with state authorities and remain ready to present further documents to any agency requiring verification,” said Mr Kham. “Baidi International is a Thai-owned, transparent business, and we remain committed to expanding our operations with integrity.” Adapted by Asean Now from TMN 2025-05-31.

Mother Finds Son Dead in Car Outside Her Noodle Shop in Suphan Buri Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 38-year-old man was discovered dead inside his car on 30 May, outside a noodle shop in Suphan Buri province, leaving family and friends in shock and grief. The cause of death remains undetermined. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362312-mother-finds-son-dead-in-car-outside-her-noodle-shop-in-suphan-buri/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 38-year-old man was discovered dead inside his car on 30 May, outside a noodle shop in Suphan Buri province, leaving family and friends in shock and grief. The cause of death remains undetermined. At approximately 06:00, Pol. Lt. Chanarong Thaisuwan, investigating officer at Mueang Suphan Buri Police Station, received a report of a body found in a parked vehicle in front of a noodle shop in Tha Phi Liang subdistrict, Mueang District. He was joined by Pol. Col. Wanchai Khaoram, police rescue teams, and forensic investigators at the scene. The deceased, identified as Mr. Kritsana, aged 38, was found in a Toyota Vios with Suphan Buri registration. Inside the vehicle, police discovered a traditional charcoal stove and a Bluetooth speaker still playing music, suggesting the deceased was listening to music before his death. The man’s mother, visibly distressed, said she awoke as usual to open the family noodle shop and noticed her son’s car parked outside. Not seeing him inside the house, she approached the vehicle and was devastated to find him lifeless inside. She immediately contacted the police. Friends and colleagues expressed disbelief over the sudden loss. One co-worker, who employed the deceased as a waiter at a local restaurant, described him as kind, hardworking, and committed, working at the family noodle shop by day and waiting tables at night. “He was in good spirits last night. We even drank together after work. He didn’t mention any problems or seem stressed at all,” the colleague said. According to family and close acquaintances, the deceased had never spoken of personal issues or financial problems. His mother echoed these sentiments, saying her son had always been diligent and never complained. No requests for early wages or signs of distress had been made recently. Initial investigations have not revealed a clear motive. Authorities suspect that personal stress may have led the man to take his own life, though no suicide note was found. Police have begun gathering statements from family members, friends and the victim’s partner. Forensic analysis is underway, but relatives have stated they do not suspect foul play. The body was sent for an autopsy, to confirm the cause of death. 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. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-31.

Mysterious Object Falls from Sky, Crashes Through Roof Picture courtesy of Amarin. Residents of a home in Chonburi province were left shaken after a mysterious object plummeted from the sky and crashed through the roof into a bedroom, narrowly missing the occupant. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362311-mysterious-object-falls-from-sky-crashes-through-roof/

Picture courtesy of Amarin. Residents of a home in Chonburi province were left shaken after a mysterious object plummeted from the sky and crashed through the roof into a bedroom, narrowly missing the occupant. The bizarre incident was first reported by local village headman Mr Kamron Ketprayoon, who posted an alert on Facebook after being notified by the homeowner. He wrote: “Received a report… a mysterious large object fell from the sky, pierced the roof and landed in a bedroom. What on earth is it?” Photos accompanying the post showed a small, metallic object approximately 3 centimetres in diameter. The item appeared to be cylindrical with a detachable cap. A sizeable hole was visible in the home’s roof, directly above the air conditioning unit in the bedroom. Reporters visited the property at 19/15, Moo 8, Map Pong sub-district, Phan Thong district, Chonburi. Mr Kamron escorted journalists to inspect the damage. The hole in the roof aligned precisely with damage found in the ceiling above the air conditioner. Speaking to the press, Mr Kamron explained, “I received a report from one of the villagers that an unidentified object had fallen from the sky and smashed through the roof into the bedroom. Thankfully, it hit the air conditioner and not the person who was lying in bed at the time. It could have been much worse.” The object has left many baffled. “I’ve never seen anything like it,” Mr Kamron said. “It’s spherical, pointed at one end and has a detachable part on top. We don’t know what kind of component it is or why it would fall from the sky.” The homeowner, who was resting in the bedroom at the time, reported hearing a loud crash before discovering the strange object on the floor. Upon inspection, they found a hole in the roof. Authorities were promptly contacted to investigate. This incident follows several recent reports across Thailand involving unexplained objects. One such case involved a mysterious item that smashed through a truck windscreen, leaving the driver in a coma, while another was found washed up on Karon Beach with inscriptions in the Hindi language. As of now, authorities have not confirmed the origin or nature of the latest object and further investigation is underway. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-31.

Woman Crushed to Death by Truck After Motorbike Collision in Ratchaburi Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A crash in Ratchaburi Province left one woman dead and another seriously injured after their motorbike clipped an 18-wheeler and overturned. The deceased was thrown beneath the truck and fatally crushed. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362310-woman-crushed-to-death-by-truck-after-motorbike-collision-in-ratchaburi/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A crash in Ratchaburi Province left one woman dead and another seriously injured after their motorbike clipped an 18-wheeler and overturned. The deceased was thrown beneath the truck and fatally crushed. At approximately 17:00 on 29 May, Police Lieutenant Colonel Uthen Amnuay, Deputy Inspector at Photharam Police Station in Ratchaburi, received a report of a collision between a trailer truck and a motorcycle on Phetkasem Road in front of the entrance to Wat Don Sai, Moo 9, Don Sai Subdistrict, Photharam District. Emergency responders from Sawang Ratchaburi Rescue Unit and medical staff from Chet Samian Hospital were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, authorities found the body of a woman aged 30, with severe injuries. Nearby lay a fallen Honda motorcycle, registration number from Bangkok. Scattered around were sacks of rice, dried food, eggs and pork, items the two women had bought from the market. Another woman, aged 25 years, had already been taken to hospital with a fractured right leg. The deceased was later confirmed to be a Myanmar national. The truck involved was an articulated lorry bearing scrape marks at the rear of the trailer. The driver, Mr. Chaikiat, 33, said he was delivering goods from Nakhon Pathom when the motorcycle suddenly emerged from the side of the road, lost control and collided with his truck. One of the women was thrown under the vehicle and fatally crushed. The deceased was taken to Ratchaburi Regional Hospital examination. Police have launched a full investigation and will proceed with legal actions if necessary. The woman’s family has been contacted to claim the body and perform religious rites. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-31.

Chinese Tourist Accused of Groping Female Intern at Chiang Mai Zoo Aquarium Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A Chinese tourist has been detained by staff at Chiang Mai Zoo Aquarium after allegedly sexually assaulting a female intern during her work duties. The incident occurred on the morning of 30 May at the popular attraction in Mueang District, Chiang Mai Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362309-chinese-tourist-accused-of-groping-female-intern-at-chiang-mai-zoo-aquarium/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A Chinese tourist has been detained by staff at Chiang Mai Zoo Aquarium after allegedly sexually assaulting a female intern during her work duties. The incident occurred on the morning of 30 May at the popular attraction in Mueang District, Chiang Mai Province. According to local reports, the intern was feeding turtles along a walkway when the male tourist approached her, reached out and groped her from behind. He then walked away as if nothing had happened. The victim, shocked and distressed, immediately reported the incident. Security camera footage captured the incident clearly, confirming the intern’s account. Staff and security personnel quickly intervened, detaining the man and contacting Phuping Rajanivej Police Station. Upon being questioned, the suspect was unable to produce a passport or any form of identification, claiming he had left his documents at his hotel. He also gave incoherent statements and claimed to be unwell. Police escorted him to his hotel, to confirm his identity, which has not been disclosed. The victim and the management of Chiang Mai Zoo Aquarium have stated their intention to pursue legal action to the fullest extent of the law. Authorities have emphasised that such behaviour will not be tolerated and legal proceedings are now underway. Adapted by Asean Now from Naewna 2025-05-31.

Suspected Anthrax Case in Nong Bua Lamphu After Man Eats Raw Beef Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Health authorities in Nong Bua Lamphu province are investigating a suspected case of anthrax infection after a 64-year-old man developed skin lesions following theconsumption of raw beef salad, commonly known in the region as koi neua. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362308-suspected-anthrax-case-in-nong-bua-lamphu-after-man-eats-raw-beef/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Health authorities in Nong Bua Lamphu province are investigating a suspected case of anthrax infection after a 64-year-old man developed skin lesions following the consumption of raw beef salad, commonly known in the region as koi neua. The man, a resident of Non Sang District, began showing symptoms on 25 May, two days after reportedly helping slaughter an eight-month-old male calf and consuming part of it in a traditional raw dish. He later developed itchy bumps on his back, shoulders, arms, and stomach. The bumps became red, oozed pus, and eventually formed black scabs—a symptom commonly associated with cutaneous anthrax. Following laboratory analysis, a Gram stain test yielded a positive result. However, medical professionals cautioned that this preliminary finding could indicate various types of bacteria, not necessarily anthrax. A definitive diagnosis will require further testing. Provincial Governor Surasak Aksornkul has instructed the provincial livestock and public health departments to investigate the incident, monitor others who came into contact with the suspect beef, and test the remaining cattle in the same herd. A total of nine other cattle have been identified for blood testing, with samples sent to Region 4 Livestock Office in Khon Kaen for analysis. The infected animal, affectionately nicknamed “Chao Toob,” was sold for 8,000 baht by a local cattle owner, who insisted that the calf showed no signs of illness prior to its sale. She further argued that the affected man, known for consuming raw meat regularly, had recently attended another festival where raw beef was also served—raising the possibility that the infection originated elsewhere. Officials from Non Sang District have since launched a campaign to warn residents against consuming raw meat and to report any signs of illness in livestock. They have also begun disinfecting areas where the animal was slaughtered. Veterinary expert Krisana Phonsawai confirmed that Nong Bua Lamphu has never before experienced a confirmed outbreak of anthrax, especially not in Non Sang District. However, he noted that the current rainy season increases risks as livestock can become weakened due to changing weather conditions. “Farmers are urged to monitor their animals closely,” said Krisana. “If any cattle refuse to eat, show muscle tremors, or exhibit unusual behaviour, they must inform local livestock officials immediately so action can be taken promptly.” Authorities continue to investigate and reassure the local community, emphasising the importance of early reporting and avoiding raw meat consumption until the source of the infection is definitively identified. Related articles: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359368-anthrax-death-reported-in-mukdahan-province/ https://aseannow.com/topic/1361141-anthrax-outbreak-halts-thai-beef-exports-to-vietnam-border-trade-suffers-massive-losses/ Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-31.

UPDATE Loose Bolts Blamed for Fatal Bell 212 Helicopter Crash Picture courtesy of Matichon. Initial investigations into the recent crash of a Bell 212 police helicopter in Prachuap Khiri Khan province have revealed that two critical bolts had come loose, leading to a catastrophic loss of control and the severing of the tail section, senior police officials confirmed on 30 May. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361652-helicopter-crash-in-prachuap-khiri-khan/page/2/#findComment-19837394

UPDATE Loose Bolts Blamed for Fatal Bell 212 Helicopter Crash Picture courtesy of Matichon. Initial investigations into the recent crash of a Bell 212 police helicopter in Prachuap Khiri Khan province have revealed that two critical bolts had come loose, leading to a catastrophic loss of control and the severing of the tail section, senior police officials confirmed on 30 May. Pol. Gen. Thatchai Pitanilabut, the Inspector-General of the Royal Thai Police, chaired an emergency meeting at the Police Aviation Division in Bangkok. The session was attended by deputy inspector-general Pol. Lt. Gen. Itthiphon Atchariyapradit, aviation division commander Pol. Maj. Gen. Amnat Detboonluang and relevant technical and flight personnel. The meeting was convened following the helicopter crash that claimed the lives of a pilot and two engineers. The wreckage of the helicopter, which had been recovered from the crash site, was transported to the aviation division for forensic inspection. Pol. Gen. Thatchai said the investigation had been prioritised by the national police chief, Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet, who had tasked him with identifying the cause without delay. Preliminary Findings: Two Missing Bolts Speaking after the inspection, Pol. Gen. Thatchai confirmed the initial findings: “The tail rotor lost stability due to two bolts detaching from the rear rotor assembly. This caused the rotor to lose control and ultimately severed the tail section of the aircraft, which is responsible for directional control.” He stressed that while these findings are preliminary, the incident points to either a mechanical fault or a maintenance failure. The detached bolts, still within their operational lifespan with more than 600 hours of use remaining, are now a focus of the investigation. Thai Airways International is under contract to perform major maintenance for police aircraft, while minor repairs are handled internally by the Royal Thai Police. Investigators are working to determine whether the failure originated during manufacturing or during recent repairs and whether the parts used met the necessary quality standards. “We cannot yet conclude whether the fault lies with the manufacturer, maintenance procedures or material quality. But we will find answers. This incident will have consequences, both criminal and civil,” said Thatchai. He added that the process will involve scrutiny of procurement budgets, repair authorisations and potential negligence. In response to speculation that the helicopter had previously been serviced by the Royal Thai Air Force, Pol. Gen. Thatchai said there was no evidence of this so far. “This investigation is grounded in science, with physical evidence and documentation. We must await the facts. This is not a witch hunt, but accountability is paramount. I assure the public, there will be no cover-up.” Pol. Maj. Gen. Amnat Detboonluang, commander of the Police Aviation Division, underscored the seriousness of the incident, noting that two police aviation accidents had occurred within just 30 days. “The safety of our aircraft and the lives of our pilots are of the highest importance. No one wants accidents like this to happen,” he said. Regarding the national police chief’s scheduled visit to Thong Pha Phum in Kanchanaburi province on 31 May, Amnat confirmed that a Eurocopter would be used for the journey instead of another Bell 212, to ensure additional precautions. “All our aircraft are technically safe to operate, but we will only fly after thorough inspections.” Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-31.

Loan Shark Gang Arrested After Harassing 76-Year-Old Woman in Lampang Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Authorities in Lampang have arrested two men involved in an illegal loan shark operation after they were found threatening and intimidating a 76-year-old woman who had borrowed 4,000 baht to care for her bedridden son. A total of 49 victims were later identified, with loan records totalling 330,000 baht seized during the operation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362306-loan-shark-gang-arrested-after-harassing-76-year-old-woman-in-lampang/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Authorities in Lampang have arrested two men involved in an illegal loan shark operation after they were found threatening and intimidating a 76-year-old woman who had borrowed 4,000 baht to care for her bedridden son. A total of 49 victims were later identified, with loan records totalling 330,000 baht seized during the operation. At a press conference held on 30 May, at the Mueang Lampang District Office, Mr. Thanarat Saithaep, District Chief of Mueang Lampang, and Mr. Pasut Na Lampang, Deputy District Chief for Security Affairs, announced the arrest in coordination with provincial administrative enforcement units, police officers from Mueang Lampang Police Station, and local village leaders. The arrested suspects were identified as Mr. Apichat 45, from Ban Pong District, Ratchaburi Province and Mr. Witiya 37, from Mueang District, Kanchanaburi Province. Both men were apprehended after allegedly harassing an elderly woman named Mrs. Somjit, who had failed to meet the aggressive daily repayment schedule. Authorities conducted a carefully planned sting operation, stationing officers at multiple points throughout the village to intercept the suspects. The two men were caught arriving in a Toyota Camry and were immediately confronted. Upon questioning, they admitted to collecting illegal loan repayments and consented to a search. Evidence obtained included a debtor list containing 49 names, chat records with borrowers, money transfer slips, and three mobile phones. The suspects confessed that the interest charged was 20% per month, well above the legal limit. Following their arrest, the suspects were formally charged with “engaging in personal loan business without a licence” and “lending money with interest exceeding legal limits.” They have confessed to the charges and were handed over to Mueang Lampang Police for legal proceedings. The arrests followed a previous welfare visit on 22 April 2025, when Lampang Red Cross President Ms. Natcha Meechan, alongside Mrs. Thanyarat Saithaep and local officials, visited Mrs. Somjit’s home in Ban Pao Subdistrict. The elderly woman lives with her 31-year-old son, Mr. Jetsada, who is bedridden and suffers from brain damage following a motorbike crash. During the welfare visit, officials learned that Mrs. Somjit had borrowed 4,000 baht from an illegal moneylender to cover household expenses. When she was unable to make repayments, she was subjected to harassment, including an incident where superglue was poured into her door lock to prevent her from entering her home. Concerned by her situation, local authorities coordinated an investigation, which ultimately led to the arrests. Officials have vowed to continue efforts to protect vulnerable citizens from predatory lending practices. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-31.

Video of the incident from Thai media.

Drunk Driver Kills Wife and Young Daughter in Crash on Highway 331 Picture courtesy of SiamChon. A road crash on the night of 29 May, in Chonburi has claimed the lives of a woman and her four-year-old daughter, with a six-year-old boy injured, after a heavily intoxicated driver lost control of his pickup truck and crashed into a central reservation on Highway 331. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362214-drunk-driver-kills-wife-and-young-daughter-in-crash-on-highway-331/

Picture courtesy of SiamChon. A road crash on the night of 29 May, in Chonburi has claimed the lives of a woman and her four-year-old daughter, with a six-year-old boy injured, after a heavily intoxicated driver lost control of his pickup truck and crashed into a central reservation on Highway 331. At approximately 22:35, the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Centre in Pattaya received reports of a crash involving a black four-door Isuzu D-Max pickup truck at kilometre marker 32+500, near the U-turn by the Forest Department in Khao Mai Kaew Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District. Responding swiftly, Pol. Lt. Col. Rueangsak Siributr, Deputy Chief of Investigation at Huai Yai Police Station, and rescue volunteers arrived to find the damaged vehicle in the grass-covered median strip. Behind the wheel was 38-year-old Mr. Kampanat Naowasuwan, an employee at Harley-Davidson’s Rayong branch, suffering from a serious head injury and showing clear signs of heavy intoxication. His wife, 35-year-old Ms. Jiratchaya and their four-year-old daughter, known as “May”, were found dead at the scene. Their six-year-old son, “Nat”, sustained multiple bruises and was taken to hospital after receiving first aid at the scene. Eyewitnesses described seeing the pickup truck driver veer off the road and fall into the central reservation. One van driver who stopped to help reported the driver appeared extremely drunk upon exiting the vehicle. Nearby residents, who were alerted by the loud impact, also rushed to assist and called emergency services. Mr. Kampanat was taken into police custody and given a blood alcohol test, which showed a reading far exceeding the legal limit. He is now facing criminal proceedings. The bodies of the deceased were transferred to a local Hospital, where relatives have been asked to present documents to claim them for religious rites. Adapted by Asean Now from SiamChon 2025-05-30.

Eastern Region Police Pioneer ‘AI Police’ Initiative in Chonburi Picture courtesy of Matichon. Provincial Police Region 2 has launched the second phase of its “AI Police” training programme in Chonburi, positioning the province as a pilot model for the nationwide integration of artificial intelligence in modern policing. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362212-eastern-region-police-pioneer-‘ai-police’-initiative-in-chonburi/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Provincial Police Region 2 has launched the second phase of its “AI Police” training programme in Chonburi, positioning the province as a pilot model for the nationwide integration of artificial intelligence in modern policing. Pol Maj Gen Thawatchakiat Jindakornsanan, Commander of Chonburi Provincial Police, presided over the opening of a hands-on training session titled “Creating Modern Police Media with AI”, aimed at equipping officers with digital communication skills and practical applications of AI technology. The workshop is part of a broader policy push spearheaded by Pol Lt Gen Yingyos Thepchamnong, Commissioner of Region 2 Police. The initiative reflects a strategic emphasis on using artificial intelligence to streamline police operations across all departments, including crime prevention, investigation, traffic, administration and public relations. The ongoing training ensures that officers across all units are equipped to deliver faster, more transparent, and citizen-centric services. Pol Maj Gen Thawatchakiat noted that the programme enhances officers’ understanding of AI and its practical benefits, such as reducing workload, boosting efficiency and improving public engagement through contemporary social media platforms. “It’s about creating a more connected and responsive police force,” he said. Pol Lt Gen Yingyos reinforced the importance of digital transformation, stating that AI is now an essential tool for police work in every field. However, he stressed that while AI supports and accelerates operations, it cannot replace the core values of policing, truthfulness, social responsibility, legal integrity and ethical conduct. “AI is a tool, not a substitute for the human heart of policing,” he remarked. “The foundation of our duty remains in our responsibility to the people.” This latest round of training underscores Region 2’s commitment to driving forward modernisation efforts and fostering a new generation of tech-savvy, community-oriented police officers. The programme also seeks to improve public access to accurate, timely information and enhance trust in the police force during this digital era. The success in Chonburi is expected to be rolled out across other provinces under Region 2’s jurisdiction in the coming months. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-30.

Youth on Motorbike Crashes Into Train in Samut Sakhon Picture courtesy of Matichon. A young man sustained injuries after his motorcycle collided with a train in Samut Sakhon province, in a dramatic incident caught on CCTV. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362211-youth-on-motorbike-crashes-into-train-in-samut-sakhon/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A young man sustained injuries after his motorcycle collided with a train in Samut Sakhon province, in a dramatic incident caught on CCTV. The collision occurred at approximately 18:30 on 28 May, at an unmanned railway crossing near the village headman’s office in Moo 4, Khok Kham Subdistrict, Mueang District. The crash involved a motorcycle and a train travelling on the inbound Mahachai-Wongwian Yai line. Although the crossing is marked with traffic signs and warning boards, it has no barrier to prevent vehicles from crossing when a train is approaching. Eyewitnesses described the scene. Mrs Suwannee Wongsawan, also known as Ann, was returning from dropping off workers when the incident unfolded. She noted that motorcycle taxi riders normally help monitor the tracks and warn of oncoming trains. However, on this occasion, there were no riders stationed at the usual lookout point. “I was watching for the train, and I could see it was coming,” said Mrs Wongsawan. “Two motorbikes approached the crossing. The first managed to speed across just in time, but the second one rode straight into the path of the train without noticing it.” She added that the train struck the second bike forcefully, flinging it off the track. Remarkably, the rider was thrown clear and survived the impact with only minor injuries, including chest pain and a sore left hand. Locals rushed to the scene, fearing the worst, but were relieved to find the young man conscious and alert. The victim, believed to be a minor, was found with a bottle of kratom water in the front basket of his motorcycle, raising suspicions that he may have consumed the herbal stimulant prior to the crash. Mr Pradit Baonert, Chairman of the Khok Kham Subdistrict Administrative Organisation Council, confirmed that four motorcycles were involved in total, with the second one bearing the brunt of the collision. He also noted that such incidents are rare in the area due to the vigilance of local motorcycle taxi drivers who typically assist with traffic control. Authorities are urging caution and considering additional safety measures for the crossing, particularly the installation of a barrier to prevent further incidents. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-30.

Villagers File DSI Complaint Over Funeral Fund Scam Worth 1.4 Billion Baht Picture courtesy of Matichon More than 100 residents from Maha Sarakham province gathered today at the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) headquarters in Bangkok to file a formal complaint, calling for an investigation into an alleged large-scale fraud involving a funeral welfare association and a local welfare fund. The total estimated losses exceed 1.4 billion baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1362210-villagers-file-dsi-complaint-over-funeral-fund-scam-worth-14-billion-baht/

Picture courtesy of Matichon More than 100 residents from Maha Sarakham province gathered today at the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) headquarters in Bangkok to file a formal complaint, calling for an investigation into an alleged large-scale fraud involving a funeral welfare association and a local welfare fund. The total estimated losses exceed 1.4 billion baht. The group, led by Mr. Banchart Jansuwan, honorary adviser to the Senate Committee on Legal and Justice Affairs, and legal representative Mr. Siri Ekchote of the Legal Environmental Protection Association (LEPA), submitted the petition to Pol. Lt. Col. Yuthana Praedam, Director-General of the DSI. The letter demands a probe into the actions of the Wapi Pathum District Funeral Welfare Association and the Wapi Pathum Welfare Fund. According to Mr. Banchart, the victims fall into three categories: 1. The deceased: Around 4,800 members who had paid their funeral premiums but whose families never received compensation. 2. Former members: Thousands who stopped payments in August–September 2023 after suspecting mismanagement. In October 2023, the registrar ceased further payouts, disqualifying many. 3. Current members: Over 20,000 who are still contributing monthly but have seen the fund abruptly stop receiving or disbursing money. Many are now seeking refunds, feeling they were misled. Concerns have also been raised about the association’s lack of transparency. In 2022, while claiming to have collected over 200 million baht from its 40,000 members, only 53 million baht was paid out. The destination of the remaining funds remains unknown. The scandal is further complicated by the fund’s heavy promotion, with advertisements posted online and agents visiting funerals to recruit new members. Promised payouts of up to 400,000 baht per death attracted elderly and vulnerable individuals, many of whom were in poor health or of advanced age. Despite this, the association continued to accept applications and monthly fees, 400 baht per fund. Mr. Banchart said the pattern of operation raises concerns about a potential Ponzi-like structure. The association allegedly encouraged relatives of deceased members to recruit new members in order to receive death benefits, further undermining confidence in the scheme. He also questioned the credibility lent by the fund’s leadership, many of whom are retired civil servants, teachers, or former school directors, giving the operation an appearance of legitimacy that misled the public. Calculations suggest that with 45,000 members paying 400 baht monthly, the fund should have seen annual revenues exceeding 400 million baht, totalling into the tens of billions nationwide. Yet many grieving families have received no payment at all. The association and fund reportedly operated from the same office as a cooperative which also accepted savings deposits. Victims were allegedly told they could not withdraw their cooperative savings unless they first resigned from both the funeral association and the welfare fund, causing further complications and discontent. Mr. Siri Ekchote urged the DSI to classify the matter as a special casedue to the complex and potentially nationwide impact. He argued that justice must still prevail and that the case warrants full legal and financial scrutiny. Ms. Maliwan, 54, a member since 2018, said she had placed her hopes on the death benefit to help support her family, only to be left devastated. Despite making regular contributions, she was never informed of problems until the fund was shut down. “I just want justice,” she said, “but the police investigation has gone nowhere, and the prosecutor claimed the case was too weak. That’s why we’re here today.” The DSI has acknowledged receipt of the complaint and supporting evidence. A decision is expected soon on whether the case will be accepted as a special investigation. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-30.