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Surin Governor Clarifies: Not a War Disaster Declaration, But an Emergency Situation Picture courtesy of Amarin. The Governor of Surin Province has clarified, on the 28 July, that the region has not been declared a war zone, but rather an “emergency disaster area” due to incursions by foreign forces, amid escalating tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368037-surin-declared-war-disaster-zone/#findComment-19981069

UPDATE Surin Governor Clarifies: Not a War Disaster Declaration, But an Emergency Situation Picture courtesy of Amarin. The Governor of Surin Province has clarified, on the 28 July, that the region has not been declared a war zone, but rather an “emergency disaster area” due to incursions by foreign forces, amid escalating tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border. Earlier reports had suggested Surin was the first province to declare a “war disaster”, prompting public concern. However, Governor Chamnarn Chuenta confirmed in a press conference, that the official classification is an “Emergency Disaster Area (due to foreign armed forces)”, explicitly stating, “This is not a declaration of war.” The declaration, he explained, enables provincial authorities to access emergency funds under the Ministry of Finance’s 2019 regulations regarding advance payments for natural and emergency disaster relief. A formal declaration of war, he added, would require a parliamentary vote with a two-thirds majority and a Royal Proclamation from His Majesty the King, a far more serious and constitutionally significant step. Adapted by Asean Now from CIB 2025-07-29

Police Raid Unlicensed Entertainment Venue in Ubon Ratchathani Picture courtesy of CIB. Officers from The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) have raided an entertainment venue in Ubon Ratchathani province found to be operating illegally without the required permits. The establishment was allegedly offering services including alcohol sales, live music performances and the employment of hostesses to sit and drink with customers. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368091-police-raid-unlicensed-entertainment-venue-in-ubon-ratchathani/

Picture courtesy of CIB. Officers from The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) have raided an entertainment venue in Ubon Ratchathani province found to be operating illegally without the required permits. The establishment was allegedly offering services including alcohol sales, live music performances and the employment of hostesses to sit and drink with customers. The operation was led by the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) in coordination with Ubon Ratchathani Highway Police and Muang Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Police. Acting on intelligence and undercover surveillance, authorities gathered sufficient evidence before launching the raid on a premises located on the ring road in Nai Mueang Subdistrict, Mueang District. According to police reports, the venue was functioning as an unlicensed entertainment establishment, a violation under the Entertainment Venue Act of 1966. Patrons were being charged by the hour for the company of male and female staff who served and drank with them, while alcohol was sold and live music played on site. The raid was conducted under the supervision of Pol. Lt. Col. Suwijak Rattanaphan, Inspector of Sub-Division 3, CSD, with officers discovering clear evidence of illegal operations. The venue’s proprietor, a 48-year-old woman identified only as Ms. Jiratchaya, admitted to authorities that she held a licence to sell alcohol but not to operate an entertainment venue. She was charged with “operating an entertainment venue without a valid licence,” and was taken into custody. Authorities seized relevant documents and bills as evidence before transferring the case to Muang Ubon Ratchathani Police Station for further legal proceedings. This action forms part of a broader crackdown on illegal entertainment businesses, spearheaded by Pol. Gen. Jiraphop Phuridej, Commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau. The initiative aims to curb crime, prevent human trafficking, underage service, prostitution and drug use associated with unregulated venues. Authorities have urged the public to report any suspicious or illegal activity to the official “Central Investigation Bureau” Facebook page. Adapted by Asean Now from CIB 2025-07-29

Brutal Assault in Pattaya: Man Bound, Beaten & Strangled by Former Friends Picture courtesy of Daily News. A 46-year-old man was tied up, strangled and brutally beaten by a couple he once considered close friends. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of morning, at a petrol station off Soi Thepprasit Soi in Pattaya, left the victim with multiple injuries. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368090-brutal-assault-in-pattaya-man-bound-beaten-strangled-by-former-friends/

Picture courtesy of Daily News. A 46-year-old man was tied up, strangled and brutally beaten by a couple he once considered close friends. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of morning, at a petrol station off Soi Thepprasit Soi in Pattaya, left the victim with multiple injuries. Rescue volunteers from Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation responded to an emergency call at approximately 02:00. Upon arrival, they found the injured man, later identified as Mr. Niti Montchaithanaphat, visibly battered and in a state of distress. His right eye socket was swollen and bruised, his head was swollen from blunt force trauma and both legs showed signs of severe bruising. Rope marks were clearly visible around his wrists and neck. First aid was administered on the scene before Mr. Niti was rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. According to the victim’s statement, he works in the local nightlife industry, bringing foreign tourists to bars in Pattaya’s Walking Street. He recounted a history of tensions with the assailants, a married couple and former neighbours, which stemmed from a romantic rivalry. Mr. Niti had previously harboured feelings for the woman, who ultimately chose to be with his friend instead. The rejection and continued mockery by the male friend reportedly led to an ongoing feud. On the night of the attack, the couple allegedly lured him to a location, then restrained him using rope, strangled him and beat him with a hoe handle. Mr. Niti said he pleaded for his life, warning them of the legal consequences if he were to die. His pleas apparently caused the pair to hesitate, allowing him to seize the opportunity to escape and seek help from nearby residents. Rescue personnel advised Mr. Niti to file a formal complaint with Pattaya City Police, who are now investigating the incident. Authorities are working to locate and arrest the suspects to ensure justice is served. Adapted by Asean Now from Daily News 2025-07-29

UPDATE Thai & Cambodian Leaders Agree to Ceasefire Following Malaysia Talks

UPDATE Thai & Cambodian Leaders Agree to Ceasefire Following Malaysia Talks

BREAKING NEWS Thai & Cambodian Leaders Agree to Ceasefire Following Malaysia Talks Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a major diplomatic breakthrough, Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an unconditional ceasefire to end days of intense border clashes, following a high-level meeting in the Malaysian capital. The ceasefire is set to take effect at midnight on the 28 July. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368059-thai-cambodian-leaders-agree-to-ceasefire-following-malaysia-talks/

Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, center, Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet left and Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai pose for photos after talks on a possible ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia in Putrajaya, Malaysia, Monday, July 28, 2025. (Mohd Rasfan/Pool Photo via AP) In a major diplomatic breakthrough, Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to an unconditional ceasefire to end days of intense border clashes, following a high-level meeting in the Malaysian capital. The ceasefire is set to take effect at midnight on the 28 July . The talks, held at the official residence of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Putrajaya, were convened under his leadership as ASEAN Chair and brought together Thai Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, along with their respective delegations. Also in attendance were the U.S. and Chinese ambassadors to Malaysia, underscoring the international concern over the escalating violence that had resulted in large-scale displacement on both sides of the Thai-Cambodian border. Ceasefire Declared Without Preconditions At a joint press briefing after the talks, Prime Minister Anwar praised both leaders for their commitment to peace, describing the outcome as a “critical first step toward de-escalation and the restoration of regional stability.” “Both Thailand and Cambodia have agreed to a complete and unconditional ceasefire, effective from midnight local time,” Anwar confirmed. “This marks an essential milestone in reducing tensions and creating a path to sustainable peace.” Prime Minister Hun Manet echoed the sentiment, calling the discussions “very constructive,” and emphasised the urgency of halting hostilities. He noted that the conflict had already displaced approximately 300,000 people across the two nations. He extended his thanks to Prime Minister Anwar for facilitating the talks, and also acknowledged the role of U.S. President Donald Trump and the Chinese government for supporting mediation efforts. He further expressed appreciation to Phumtham for his “constructive engagement” throughout the negotiation process. Follow-Up Military and Diplomatic Meetings Planned To support the ceasefire implementation, Anwar announced that military commanders from both countries will hold an informal meeting at 07:00 on Tuesday, 29 July. A more formal gathering, led by ASEAN’s defence attachés, is scheduled for 4 August. Hun Manet voiced optimism that the ceasefire would pave the way for hundreds of thousands of displaced citizens to return to normal life. “It is time to rebuild trust and confidence between Cambodia and Thailand,” he said. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-07-28

UPDATE Gunman Kills Five in Bangkok Market Rampage Before Taking Own Life Pictures courtesy of Khaosod. A mass shooting unfolded at the Or Tor Kor Market (OTK Market) in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district on 28 July, claiming the lives of six people, including the gunman and injuring two others. Authorities have confirmed the shooter was a 61-year-old Thai national identified only as Mr. Noi, a former fruit vendor at the market. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368046-gunman-kills-five-at-or-tor-kor-market-before-taking-own-life/#findComment-19980197

UPDATE Gunman Kills Five in Bangkok Market Rampage Before Taking Own Life Pictures courtesy of Khaosod. A mass shooting unfolded at the Or Tor Kor Market (OTK Market) in Bangkok’s Chatuchak district on 28 July, claiming the lives of six people, including the gunman and injuring two others. Authorities have confirmed the shooter was a 61-year-old Thai national identified only as Mr. Noi, a former fruit vendor at the market. According to police reports, the attacker hijacked a taxi from the SC Park Hotel area on Pradit Manutham Road at midday. During the journey, he allegedly held the driver at gunpoint, declaring his intent to shoot a security guard at the market. Upon arrival at Gate 1 of OTK Market, the assailant immediately opened fire on three security guards stationed there. Eyewitnesses and fellow market vendors stated that the gunman then moved deeper into the market in search of his wife, with whom he had a long-standing history of domestic conflict. Failing to locate her, he shot and killed a female vegetable vendor, known locally as “Auntie Tu”, before turning the weapon on himself. He reportedly sat on a bench opposite his wife’s fruit stall before firing a fatal shot to his right temple. Four security guards and one vendor were killed in the attack. Two women were injured and remain in hospital. The attacker, who ultimately took his own life, had not been seen at the market for several months prior to the incident. His wife had continued to run their dried fruit stall alone. Witnesses described Mr. Noi as a hot-tempered individual, with one vendor saying he had exhibited signs of emotional distress and resentment following marital problems. The suspect also previously worked as a security guard at the same company as some of the victims. According to the suspect’s wife, the primary target of the rampage was a guard named Mr. Nhan, with whom her husband had a personal grievance dating back to 2019–2020. Metropolitan Police Commissioner Pol Lt Gen Siam Boonsom told reporters the investigation is ongoing. Authorities are examining the scene and interviewing witnesses to piece together a full motive and timeline. Police have recovered the suspect’s firearm and confirmed that he acted alone. The market shooting has shocked the local community, with many vendors expressing grief over the loss of their colleagues. Humanitarian activist “Kan Jompalang” has announced compensation of one million baht for the families of each deceased security guard. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-07-28

Fierce Clash at Chong Krang: One Thai Soldier Killed, Dozens Injured in Border Battle Picture courtesy of ThaiRath. A fierce and prolonged battle erupted along the Thai-Cambodian border in the Chong Krang area near Phanom Dong Rak district, Sisaket province, resulting in the death of one Thai soldier and injuries to dozens more. The intense fighting took place near the ancient sites of Ta Khwai and Ta Muen Thom temples. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368052-fierce-clash-at-chong-krang-one-thai-soldier-killed-dozens-injured-in-border-battle/

Picture courtesy of ThaiRath. A fierce and prolonged battle erupted along the Thai-Cambodian border in the Chong Krang area near Phanom Dong Rak district, Surin province, resulting in the death of one Thai soldier and injuries to dozens more. The intense fighting took place near the ancient sites of Ta Khwai and Ta Muen Thom temples. At approximately 12:10 on 28 July, a Thai Army helicopter evacuated a severely wounded soldier from the Phu Sing district battlefield. The soldier, gravely injured during the clash, later succumbed to a gunshot wound to the head despite emergency medical efforts. Reports indicate that dozens of other Thai troops were injured in the same engagement and are being transported via military vehicles to field hospitals for urgent treatment. The hostilities began after intelligence revealed that Cambodian forces had mobilised tanks, heavy weaponry and troops close to the border areas of Phanom Dong Rak and Kap Choeng districts. Thai forces responded with significant countermeasures, including the deployment of F-16 fighter jets, which carried out airstrikes in support of ground operations at around 10:30. A separate incursion was reported near the Huai Dan Reservoir in Dan subdistrict, Kap Choeng. Cambodian soldiers allegedly crossed a canal into Thai territory before being repelled by Thai troops. By midday, Thai forces reportedly succeeded in dispersing Cambodian units that had massed near Phanom Dong Rak. However, sporadic exchanges of gunfire were still heard in the area, suggesting the situation remains tense and fluid. The Thai military has yet to issue a full casualty report or confirm the status of Cambodian forces, but the day’s events mark one of the most serious escalations in the ongoing border tensions between the two nations. Adapted by Asean Now from ThaiRath 2025-07-28

UPDATE Thailand and Cambodia Begin Ceasefire Talks in Malaysia Amid Tensions Picture courtesy of CH3 The high-level ceasefire talks between Thailand and Cambodia, held at the official residence of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Putrajaya, bagan at 15:00 on 28 July. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1367999-thai-and-cambodian-leaders-to-hold-emergency-talks-in-malaysia/#findComment-19980100

UPDATE Thailand and Cambodia Begin Ceasefire Talks in Malaysia Amid Tensions Pictures courtesy of CH3 The high-level ceasefire talks between Thailand and Cambodia, held at the official residence of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Putrajaya, bagan at 15:00 on 28 July. The emergency negotiations come amid escalating border tensions between the two nations, which have resulted in multiple casualties and heightened regional concern. The talks, hosted by Malaysia in its role as a neutral ASEAN member, were attended by Prime Minister Anwar himself, along with senior representatives from both Thailand and Cambodia. Also present in the meeting room were observers from the United States and China, reflecting growing international interest in the situation and hopes for a de-escalation. The presence of global powers at the closed-door session highlights the broader geopolitical implications of the conflict, which has seen military skirmishes and civilian evacuations along contested border zones in recent weeks. Adapted by Asean Now from CH3 2025-07-28

Indonesian Boy 4, Seriously Injured in Fall from Pattaya High-Rise Building Picture courtesy of TMN. A four-year-old Indonesian boy was left critically injured after falling from a high floor of a condominium building in central Pattaya at around midday on 26 July. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368048-indonesian-boy-4-seriously-injured-in-fall-from-pattaya-high-rise-building/

Picture courtesy of TMN. A four-year-old Indonesian boy was left critically injured after falling from a high floor of a condominium building in central Pattaya at around midday on 26 July. Emergency services, including officers from Pattaya City Police Station, rescue personnel from the Sawang Boriboon Foundation, an ambulance crew and medical staff from Pattaya City Hospital, rushed to the scene following reports of a child falling from a height. Upon arrival at the condominium on Pattaya Second Road, responders found the child, identified as Muhammad Khaysar Aqmar, lying unconscious on a mezzanine level on the third floor. He had sustained severe injuries. Paramedics administered emergency first aid before transferring him urgently to Bangkok Pattaya Hospital for specialist treatment. Preliminary investigations revealed that Muhammad had been staying at the property with his family, who were visiting Pattaya on holiday. The family was occupying unit 88/344 on the 18th floor of the building. According to initial accounts, it is believed the child wandered out to a fire escape area to play and accidentally fell. He reportedly struck a tree near the third floor during the fall, which may have lessened the impact but it still resulted in grave injuries. The exact height from which the boy fell has not yet been confirmed. Pattaya police are reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses in order to determine the precise circumstances surrounding the incident. Authorities have not ruled out any possibilities and are treating the case with sensitivity due to the young age of the victim and the seriousness of the injuries sustained. Adapted by Asean Now from TMN 2025-07-28

Gunman Kills Five at Or Tor Kor Market Before Taking Own Life Picture courtesy of Amarin. A Thai man opened fire at Bangkok’s Or Tor Kor Market on the afternoon of 28 July, killing five people, including four security guards and a market vendor, before turning the gun on himself. The shocking incident occurred at a donation area associated with social activist “Kan Jompalang”. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368046-gunman-kills-five-at-or-tor-kor-market-before-taking-own-life/

Picture courtesy of Amarin. A Thai man opened fire at Bangkok’s Or Tor Kor Market just after midday on the 28 July, killing five people, including four security guards and a market vendor, before turning the gun on himself. The shocking incident occurred at a donation area associated with social activist “Kan Jompalang”. The assailant, identified as Mr. Noi 61, from Khong District, Nakhon Ratchasima, was a former security guard who had previously worked at the same company as the victims. Dressed in a black shirt, cream-coloured shorts and carrying a camouflage-patterned backpack, he reportedly entered the market and began shooting without warning. CCTV footage. Witnesses said the attacker calmly walked through the market, targeting security personnel and a vendor. One of the most harrowing moments came when he approached a dried seafood stall and confronted a female vendor who begged for her life, crying, “Please don’t hurt me. I don’t know anything.” He shot her at close range. Initial reports from police and emergency responders confirmed five fatalities: four security guards and the female vendor. Two other individuals were injured in the rampage. After the shooting, the suspect reportedly walked to a bench in the centre of the market, sat down and fatally shot himself, becoming the sixth death in the incident. The elite Hanuman police unit and local officers responded swiftly to the scene, cordoning off the market and securing the area. The motive behind the attack is still under investigation, but authorities believe it may be linked to personal grievances stemming from past employment. The Or Tor Kor Market, located in the Chatuchak area of Bangkok, is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Following the incident, it has been temporarily closed. Kan Jompalang, who operates a charity drop-off point at the market, posted an urgent message on his social media page as the shooting unfolded, urging police to respond immediately. The investigation is ongoing. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-07-28

Dash-cam footage of the strike. ScreenRecording_07-28-2025 11-46-08_1.mp4

UPDATE Thai Forces Dismantle Cable Car and Stairway to Block Cambodian Access to Phu Makua Picture courtesy of Amarin. In a decisive military operation, Thai troops have successfully dismantled a cable car system and stairway constructed by Cambodian forces in violation of the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU43), cutting off access to the disputed Phu Makua cliff area. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1367933-thai-troops-raise-flag-on-phu-ma-khuea-after-cambodian-forces-defeated/#findComment-19979908

UPDATE Thai Forces Dismantle Cable Car and Stairway to Block Cambodian Access to Phu Makua Picture courtesy of Amarin. In a decisive military operation, Thai troops have successfully dismantled a cable car system and stairway constructed by Cambodian forces in violation of the 2000 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU43), cutting off access to the disputed Phu Makua cliff area. According to reports from the Thai military, the operation followed the recent expulsion of Cambodian soldiers who had established a presence on the strategic hilltop. After reclaiming the area, Thai troops raised the national flag on the summit, prompting several Cambodian attempts to retake the position, all of which were repelled. The dismantled infrastructure, including the cable car and stairway built on the cliff face, had long been a point of contention. Despite multiple diplomatic protests issued by Thailand, the Cambodian side reportedly ignored all objections and continued to utilise the access route. Photographs released by the Thai military show the cable car cables were cut and the stairway disassembled, effectively severing the route used by Cambodian troops to ascend the cliff. Cambodian forces are now stationed at the base of the escarpment, unable to access the upper area. The Thai Army emphasised that the destruction of the structures was necessary to uphold national sovereignty and prevent further encroachments. In a related development, former Deputy Prime Minister General Prawit Wongsuwan expressed full confidence in the Thai armed forces, stating, “Our soldiers are resolute and capable in defending the country’s sovereignty, regardless of the government’s political strength.” Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-07-28

Birthday Party Cancelled as Danish Man & Thai Wife Donate to Evacuees Picture courtesy of Workpoint. A Danish national and his Thai wife have turned a birthday celebration into a act of generosity, donating essential supplies to evacuees and a local hospital amid ongoing border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368042-birthday-party-cancelled-as-danish-man-thai-wife-donate-to-evacuees/

Picture courtesy of Workpoint. A Danish national and his Thai wife have turned a birthday celebration into a act of generosity, donating essential supplies to evacuees and a local hospital amid ongoing border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia. At around 13:30 on 26 July, Otto Villumsen, a Danish national and his wife Ornuma Khetnimitt, alongside her brother Luechai Khetnimiti, delivered disposable nappies to Sri Narong Hospital in Surin Province. The hospital has been receiving patients and injured evacuees from neighbouring Sangkhla and Buachet districts, currently affected by cross-border military clashes. The couple also provided vital household supplies, rice, instant noodles, canned fish, drinking water, mosquito repellent, underwear, sanitary pads and other necessities, to evacuation centres in Sri Narong. The distribution was coordinated by Mr. Luechai, who is the manager of BT Concrete Co. Ltd., with the support of company staff. Mr. Villumsen said he had travelled from Denmark to Thailand to celebrate his birthday with his wife and her family. Upon learning of the military conflict occurring close to his wife’s hometown and the subsequent evacuation of civilians to nearby shelters, he felt compelled to help. “My wife told me about the evacuation centres in Sri Narong. Since they are near where we are staying, I thought it was right to do something for the people suffering in this situation,” Mr. Villumsen explained. Mrs. Ornuma Khetnimitt shared that she traditionally marks her birthday with almsgiving and a family meal. Her husband travels from Denmark every year to be part of the celebration. This year, however, the family decided to cancel the festivities after hearing news of the clashes and the evacuation of large numbers of civilians. “Instead of a party, we donated essentials to the hospital and shelters. My younger brother and our company staff helped deliver the items. It may not be much, but it comes from our hearts,” she said. Adapted by Asean Now from Workpoint 2025-07-28