Georgealbert

I would like to agree with you, but that would just make us both wrong. Your Dunning Kruger effect is strong today. Sorry the only person that is talking drivel is yourself. A keyboard expert, with no knowledge, no training and no experience, defaming the people doing an excellent good in extremely difficult, challenging and almost impossible situation. It is pointless trying to explain anything to someone who clearly has zero idea what they are talking about.

Sorry but when you lack any experience or knowledge about USAR (Urban Search and Rescue), you end up making embarrassing statements. Multiple deployment as you suggest, would not work. The search has to controlled under a full incident command system. This site was split into four sections, A,B,C and D, classic zone incident command. The initial aim was to identify possible locations of survivors. This was attempted using technology, infra red drones, endoscope cameras, hydrophone listening devices and specialised search radar. This often means the site has to be cleared to stop noise or movement, so that accurate readings can be taken. At the same time, consultations with engineers and review of building blueprints will try to establish possible zones where voids may have survived the collapsed, such as lift shafts, service shafts or stairwells. Once technology has done its job, K9 dogs were deployed to first search for survivors and then bodies. The first priority in any emergency or rescue is the safety of the responders. A mass of people climbing all over a large unstable structure, just provides greater dangers, lack of incident control and unacceptable risks to responders, plus also increasing the risk of further collapse in or under the structure. In this type of pancake collapse most of the bodies with be flattened, with the bones fully crushed and the internal organs, blood, etc, normally exploding out, often through a foot or hand. This will create a biohazard and the decomposition in the Bangkok sun, will make the site, an extremely unpleasant working area. Thailand has a structured USAR response, with DDPM taking the lead with its own teams and supported by BKK fire and rescue service USAR teams. All are trained through the DDPM training centre and courses. Most of the other responders on the site, are volunteer teams, who lack the specialist training, but will work under instructions of qualified teams leaders.

Sorry but the complexity of this type of rescue, means a slow methodology in the hope of detecting any survivors. Just pulling apart the buildings remains is likely to cause further collapses in the structure. It does not matter how many personal are on site, you can’t safely or operationally just deploy multiple resources and hope. Sorry but without USAR knowledge calling this rescue shameful, is doing an injustice to both the rescuers and authorities, who have been working in dangerous, hazardous and extremely complex conditions. The rescue is now moving to a body recovery stage and still you can’t just rip the building apart, as respect still has to be given to the human remains still within the structure. The responders should be praised for this rescue attempt, with the blame for the deaths aimed at the contractors and the system that allowed this tragedy to occur.

7 Dangerous Days, Sees Step up in Road Safety Measures for Post-Songkran Travel Pictures courtesy of DDPM. The Road Safety Centre (ศปถ.) has revised its strategy to manage the return of thousands of holidaymakers heading back to Bangkok and major provinces at the close of the Songkran festival. Authorities have intensified road safety protocols, stepping up inspections on vehicles and assessing driver fitness to ensure safe travel nationwide. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357881-7-dangerous-days-sees-step-up-in-road-safety-measures-for-post-songkran-travel/

Pictures courtesy of DDPM. The Road Safety Centre (ศปถ.) has revised its strategy to manage the return of thousands of holidaymakers heading back to Bangkok and major provinces at the close of the Songkran festival. Authorities have intensified road safety protocols, stepping up inspections on vehicles and assessing driver fitness to ensure safe travel nationwide. Speaking at the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) this morning, officials announced the latest statistics for road crashes during the Thai New Year celebrations. With today marking the final day of the festival and a substitute public holiday, significant traffic congestion is expected, particularly on main routes into the capital. In response the safety centre, has coordinated with provincial authorities to adjust operations, enhancing cooperation between police, military, administrative officers, and local volunteers. These agencies are working jointly to manage traffic flow and assist travellers throughout their journey. Special attention is being paid to high-risk routes, where authorities are conducting strict vehicle checks and evaluating driver alertness to prevent accidents caused by fatigue or speeding. Mr. Khajon Srichawanotai, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior and head of the Road Safety Centre’s working group, reported that overall crashes, injuries, and fatalities have decreased compared to last year. However, speeding and drink-driving remain the leading causes. He stressed the continued enforcement of traffic laws, not only during the festival but throughout the year. “Particularly on long, straight stretches of road, where drivers often exceed speed limits, enforcement must be strict,” said Mr. Khajon. “Officers are also tasked with monitoring transport hubs to ensure smooth operations and safety for travellers, including public bus drivers and freight transporters.” Mr. Chakree Bamrungwong, Inspector-General at the Ministry of Transport, noted a shift in travel patterns this year, with more people opting for public transport. Bus usage increased by 7%, while rail and air travel surged by over 30%. Transport agencies have responded by increasing service frequency across all modes of travel. Nationwide checkpoints are inspecting public buses, trains, boats, and their operators, ensuring they are not under the influence of alcohol or sedative medications, a known cause of driver fatigue. “To accommodate the influx of returnees, provinces have been instructed to check the readiness of all public transport vehicles and drivers,” Mr. Chakree said. “GPS tracking and onboard laser cameras are also being used to monitor compliance. Violators will face legal action.” The Ministry of Transport has also expanded ticketing options and launched public campaigns promoting appropriate behaviour on public transport, aiming to ensure all travellers reach their destinations safely. Mr. Saharat Wongsakulwiwat, Deputy Director-General of the DDPM, urged motorists to prioritise personal well-being and vehicle maintenance before embarking on long drives. “Drivers should rest every one to two hours and stop immediately if they feel drowsy. Rest stops and petrol stations are available along all major routes,” he advised. With summer storms expected in several regions, including the North, Central, and South, drivers are warned to be cautious of slippery roads and reduced visibility, which heighten the risk of accidents. Accident Statistics (15 April 2025): Accidents: 214 Injuries: 209 Fatalities: 27 Main causes: Speeding (36.92%), drink-driving (31.31%), poor visibility (20.09%) Vehicles involved: Motorcycles (85.32%) Accident locations: Straight roads (87.38%), highways (36.45%), village roads (33.18%) Peak times: 18:01–21:00 (22.90%), 15:01–18:00 PM (20.56%), 00:01–03:00 (13.55%) Highest fatality age group: 20–29 years (20.34%) Over the five-day campaign (11–15 April), a total of 1,216 accidents occurred, with 1,208 people injured and 171 fatalities reported. Twenty-one provinces reported zero fatalities. Phatthalung recorded the most accidents (44), Lampang the most injuries (47), and Bangkok the most deaths (15). Authorities stress continued vigilance on the roads as the nation transitions back to normal activity after Songkran. Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357797-138-deaths-in-first-four-days-of-songkran’s-“seven-dangerous-days”/ -- 2025-04-16

Update is posted daily.

This is another video of the incident.

Missing Park Ranger Found Dead in Kanchanaburi National Park Picture courtesy of Matichon. A park ranger who went missing while leading a group of tourists on a trek through the famous Sao Hin Cave in Lam Khlong Ngu National Park, Kanchanaburi, has been found dead, authorities confirmed late evening on 15 April. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357850-missing-park-ranger-found-dead-in-kanchanaburi-national-park/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A park ranger who went missing while leading a group of tourists on a trek through the famous Sao Hin Cave in Lam Khlong Ngu National Park, Kanchanaburi, has been found dead, authorities confirmed late evening on 15 April. Mr. Chutidet Kamonchanut, Director of the Office of Conservation Area Administration 3, reported the incident at 13:00 on April 15 after receiving an emergency call regarding the disappearance of Mr. Paisan Waenpetch, an external contractor working with the national park. According to initial reports, Mr. Paisan vanished in the water while guiding a group of eco-tourists through the forest near the Sao Hin Cave. Upon being notified, Mr. Arkhonit Klangpraphan, Head of Lam Khlong Ngu National Park, immediately dispatched a search and rescue team to the site. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation promptly ordered a systematic search operation, taking into account the area’s complex terrain and various environmental hazards. Due to the challenging nature of the landscape, the park coordinated efforts with an experienced dive rescue team from the Pitak Karn Foundation to intensify the search. Despite relentless efforts throughout the day, no trace of Mr. Paisan had been found by evening. However, at approximately 22:00, the Department announced that divers had located the body of the missing ranger. The recovery operation was underway to bring his body out of the area. “We extend our deepest condolences,” the department stated in an official post. Sao Hin Cave is a renowned attraction in Lam Khlong Ngu National Park, located in Kanchanaburi province. The limestone cave stretches more than 500 metres deep and features dramatic stalactites, stalagmites, and towering natural stone pillars that give the cave its name, which translates to “Stone Pillar Cave”. A subterranean stream runs through the cave, and during the rainy season, rising water levels and strong currents make the area particularly hazardous. -- 2025-04-16

Fugitive Officer ‘Sergeant Jack’ Arrested Over Kidnap and Extortion of Chinese Businessman Picture courtesy of Matichon. A fugitive police officer wanted for his role in the kidnap and extortion of a Chinese businessman has been arrested after nearly a year on the run. The suspect, known as “Sergeant Jack,” was apprehended in Pranburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357849-fugitive-officer-‘sergeant-jack’-arrested-over-kidnap-and-extortion-of-chinese-businessman/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A fugitive police officer wanted for his role in the kidnap and extortion of a Chinese businessman has been arrested after nearly a year on the run. The suspect, known as “Sergeant Jack,” was apprehended in Pranburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan province. At 10:45 on 16 April, a joint police operation led by Pol. Lt. Col. Jirayut Chatcharinkul of Crime Suppression Division Subdivision 5 and Pol. Col. Hongphrom Wisitchanachai, Superintendent of Pranburi Police Station, executed an arrest warrant against Sgt. Weerayut 34, a traffic officer from Phaya Thai Police Station in Bangkok. Sgt. Weerayut, or “Sergeant Jack”, was wanted under an arrest warrant issued on 27 June 2024 by the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct. He faces charges including extortion, illegally impersonating a public official and unlawful detention. The arrest took place at a private residence in the Ruk Hua Hin-Pranburi housing estate in Wang Phong Subdistrict, after police surveillance confirmed his presence at the location. Officers, wearing body armour, found the suspect hiding in the living room of the house after gaining access with a locksmith. He was taken into custody without resistance and later admitted to being the person named in the warrant. He was transferred to Din Daeng Police Station in Bangkok for legal proceedings. The case dates back to 29 April 2024, when a Chinese tourist filed a complaint with Din Daeng police, claiming that a group of men posing as police officers had abducted him from a hotel in Soi Pracha Songkhro 2. The victim was forced into a vehicle and later coerced into transferring digital currency worth approximately 4 million baht. After negotiations, he transferred 65,000 USDT (roughly 2.5 million baht) before being released. On 3 May 2024, senior Bangkok Metropolitan Police commanders launched an intensive investigation. CCTV footage revealed three suspects wearing police uniforms escorting the victim from the 14th floor of the hotel and driving away in four vehicles. The first three suspects identified were: • Mr. Atthawut (alias “Boss” or “Sergeant Wut”), a former officer from Khan Na Yao Police Station; • Mr. Teerachai; • Mr. Napasin. Sergeant Wut was later arrested at his home and admitted to involvement, claiming he was acting under instructions from another party. On 1 May 2024, the Chinese victim returned to Thailand to identify the crime scenes, including a police firing range. This led to three further arrest warrants being issued. Sergeant Wut, who resigned from the police in early 2023, was already facing charges in a separate attempted theft case. In total, 11 suspects were linked to the case, including two serving officers under the Metropolitan Police Bureau: • Pol. L/Cpl. Phuwadet Deklee from the 191 emergency call centre (already in custody); • Sgt. Weerayut “Jack” Phetcharat (now arrested). On 5 May 2024, police also arrested Ms. Jarunet, a 34-year-old Laotian woman who acted as a decoy during the abduction. Posing as another victim, she travelled in the same car as Pol. L/Cpl. Phuwadet to make the ruse more convincing. After the ransom was paid, she was instructed by Sgt. Jack to wait at a hotel in Soi Vibhavadi 60. She received 350,000 baht for her role and transferred 40,000 baht to Mr. Napasin. Ms. Jarunet later confessed to working directly under Sgt. Jack, helping prepare equipment and coordinate with the victim’s contacts to facilitate the plan. National Police Chief Pol. Gen. Kittirat Panphuet stated that at least 10 individuals were involved in the plot, with arrest warrants issued for seven. Five suspects are now in custody. Three serving officers were implicated, including the recently arrested Sgt. Jack. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities seek to dismantle the criminal network behind the elaborate extortion scheme. -- 2025-04-16

Phayao: Fisherman Found Shot Dead in Rice Field A 57-year-old man who went out at night to catch fish was found dead in a rice field in Phayao province early morning on 15 April. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357848-phayao-fisherman-found-shot-dead-in-rice-field/

Picture from responders. A 57-year-old man who went out at night to catch fish was found dead in a rice field in Phayao province early morning on 15 April. Police Lieutenant Danupol Chueamuangphan, an investigator from Mueang Phayao Police Station, received a report at around 09:00 of a body discovered in a field near Ban Rong Hai, Village 11, Mae Sai Subdistrict, Mueang District, Phayao Province. He responded to the scene along with forensic experts, rescue workers, and a medical examiner from Phayao Hospital. The body, later identified as Mr. Jamrat Wongbut, aged 57, of Village 5 in Mae Ka Subdistrict, was found lying face-up beside an irrigation channel in the middle of a rice field. He was dressed in long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, balaclava covered his head, and a torch was attached to his forehead. Nearby lay a fishing spear and blood trails extending from the water’s edge to his body. His left glove was soaked in blood. Upon examination at the scene, forensic doctors found that Mr. Jamrat had been shot multiple times. A gunshot wound to the right side of his chest had passed through his body, exiting near the left side of his back. At least three bullets were recovered from his clothing and body, with others suspected to remain lodged internally. The calibre and type of weapon used remain unknown. According to the victim’s daughter, her father had left the house the previous evening to catch fish, frogs, and other small animals but never returned. By morning, when he was still missing, family members organised a search, ultimately leading to the grim discovery in the fields. Police have launched a full investigation and are collecting forensic evidence and witness statements as they work to identify and apprehend those responsible for the killing. -- 2025-04-16

Inferno in Rice Field Destroys Five Vehicles at Rocket Festival Preparations A ferocious fire broke out in a rice field in Yasothon province on the afternoon of 15 April, completely engulfing and destroying five vehicles belonging to a group of local rocket enthusiasts. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357847-inferno-in-rice-field-destroys-five-vehicles-at-rocket-festival-preparations/

Picture and video from responders. A ferocious fire broke out in a rice field in Yasothon province on the afternoon of 15 April, completely engulfing and destroying five vehicles belonging to a group of local rocket enthusiasts. According to reports from the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), the fire initially ignited dry straw scattered across a rice field. With soaring temperatures and dry conditions, the flames spread rapidly to nearby vehicles parked in a row at the edge of the field. Within minutes, the fire had consumed all five vehicles. Witnesses at the scene said there was little anyone could do as the flames quickly overtook the parked vehicles, which included both pick-up trucks and cars. The owners, who were preparing for an upcoming local bun bang fai (rocket festival), were left devastated as not only their vehicles but also valuable equipment and personal belongings stored inside were completely destroyed. One of the vehicle owners expressed shock and heartbreak over the incident. “I’ve never experienced anything like this in my life,” he told reporters. “Everything’s gone. There’s nothing left. Even the car was freshly registered. Now it’s all ashes.” Local authorities are currently carrying out a thorough investigation to determine the exact cause of the fire. While initial suspicions point to a possibly discarded cigarette igniting the dry straw, officials have not ruled out foul play. Video of the aftermath. The loss has struck a particularly heavy blow to the affected individuals, many of whom were heavily involved in the cultural and competitive aspects of the traditional rocket festivals. These events, often held in May, involve the launching of large homemade rockets into the sky to encourage rainfall and celebrate local heritage. No injuries were reported in the incident. However, with damage estimated in millions of baht and the loss of irreplaceable custom-built equipment, the fire has left a dark cloud over this year’s preparations. -- 2025-04-16 ScreenRecording_04-15-2025 18-40-19_1.mp4

Songkran Drowning: 36-Year-Old Man Dies While Cooling Off in Pond A 36-year-old man drowned in front of his friends while celebrating the Songkran holiday, after entering a pond to cool off from the heat in Sri Maha Phot district, Prachinburi province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357846-songkran-drowning-36-year-old-man-dies-while-cooling-off-in-pond/

Picture from responders. A 36-year-old man drowned in front of his friends while celebrating the Songkran holiday, after entering a pond to cool off from the heat in Sri Maha Phot district, Prachinburi province. At approximately 13:30 on 15 April, police at Sri Maha Phot Station were alerted by the 191 emergency centre to a drowning at a company’s freshwater pond in Moo 4, Tha Tum sub-district. Investigators, led by Police Lieutenant Kittisak Sinthorn, and including the district police chief, medical personnel from Sri Maha Phot Hospital, local officials, and rescue teams from Sawang Bamphen Thammasathan Foundation and Ruamkatanyu Foundation, quickly arrived at the scene. The body of the deceased, identified as Mr Aung Ko Oo, a 36-year-old Myanmar national, was found lying on the bank of the pond. The pond is estimated to cover around five rai and is between 3 to 5 metres deep. An initial inspection revealed no signs of physical assault or injuries on the body. Friends of the deceased told authorities that the group had taken advantage of the Songkran holiday to cool off in the water. While swimming, Mr Aung Ko Oo appeared to struggle and eventually disappeared beneath the surface. His friends rushed to pull him out but, tragically, he had already stopped breathing. Mr Somkid Saengsuk, subdistrict assistant chief of Tha Tum, reported that three Myanmar workers had entered the pond. He believes the victim may have suffered a cramp while swimming. Witnesses said that in a panic after recovering the body, the surviving friends fled the scene, fearing repercussions, but were later brought in for questioning by police. Authorities have sent the body for a full autopsy at Sri Maha Phot Hospital to confirm the cause of death. -- 2025-04-16

Family’s Lucky Escape as Bodhi Tree Falls on Car Near Chiang Mai Cemetery Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A family of three had a narrow escape when a Bodhi tree suddenly toppled over and fell onto their car while they were stopped at a red traffic light near a cemetery in Chiang Mai. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357845-family’s-lucky-escape-as-bodhi-tree-falls-on-car-near-chiang-mai-cemetery/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A family of three had a narrow escape when a Bodhi tree suddenly toppled over and fell onto their car while they were stopped at a red traffic light near a cemetery in Chiang Mai. The incident occurred near the exit gate of the Chang Phueak Cemetery in the Santitham area, Mueang District, Chiang Mai Province. The large tree, located within the cemetery grounds, came crashing down without warning, landing on the rear of a white electric car that had just begun to move as the light turned green. Inside the vehicle were two parents and their child. Fortunately, none of them were injured, though the rear of the car was badly damaged, with its rear window shattered and bodywork crushed. A pickup truck following closely behind was also struck and became trapped under the fallen tree. Local police and firefighters from the Chedi Ngam station, located adjacent to the cemetery, responded promptly to the scene. They cordoned off the area to ensure public safety, especially as nearby power lines had also been brought down by the falling tree. Chiang Mai Provincial Electricity Authority officials were called in to cut the power and assist with the safe removal of the tree. Emergency crews worked quickly to free the trapped vehicle and clear the debris blocking the road. -- 2025-04-16

Chinese Face Legal Action Over Dangerous Songkran Water Blasts Picture courtesy of Momentum. Police in Bangkok’s Makkasan district have taken legal action against a group of Chinese nationals, who rented several water trucks and used high-pressure hoses to spray other Songkran revellers, posing a serious safety risk. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357844-chinese-face-legal-action-over-dangerous-songkran-water-blasts/

Picture courtesy of Momentum. Police in Bangkok’s Makkasan district have taken legal action against a group of Chinese nationals, who rented several water trucks and used high-pressure hoses to spray other Songkran revellers, posing a serious safety risk. According to a report by Channel 7, the youths, believed to have rented five water trucks, sat atop the vehicles and sprayed powerful jets of water at pedestrians and motorcyclists in the RCA entertainment zone, as well as in the Sukhumvit and Sanam Luang areas. The incident quickly went viral on Thai social media, with popular Facebook pages Drama Addict and The Momentum warning of the potential danger. Videos showed distressed passers-by pleading with the youths to stop, only to be ignored, possibly due to language barriers, according to The Momentum. Responding to public concern, Drama Addict later posted an update: “Regarding news that Chinese people rented trucks to spray water in celebration of Songkran, disturbing residents in the Makkasan zone, Makkasan Police Station would like to inform that they have taken action.” Makkasan Police confirmed that legal proceedings are underway. -- 2025-04-16

Brutal Knife Attack Leaves One Myanmar National Dead, Brother Critically Injured Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Police are searching for a suspect following a deadly knife attack at an apartment block in Bo Win, Si Racha District, that left one Myanmar man dead and his younger brother seriously injured. The attack is believed to have stemmed from ongoing personal disputes. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357843-brutal-knife-attack-leaves-one-myanmar-national-dead-brother-critically-injured/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Police are searching for a suspect following a deadly knife attack at an apartment block in Bo Win, Si Racha District, that left one Myanmar man dead and his younger brother seriously injured. The attack is believed to have stemmed from ongoing personal disputes. At around 20:00 on 14 April, Pol. Sub-Lt. Jomphop Khongsin, duty officer at Bo Win Police Station, received reports of a fatal stabbing involving Myanmar nationals at an apartment complex in Moo 8, Bo Win Subdistrict, Chonburi Province. Officers arrived at the scene accompanied by forensic investigators, medical personnel from Aow Udom Hospital, and volunteers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation’s Si Racha division. They discovered the body of 30-year-old Mr. Su Mong, a Myanmar national, on the fourth floor of the apartment. He had suffered multiple stab wounds to the torso. A 5-inch kitchen knife, believed to be the murder weapon, was found beside the blood-soaked body. His younger brother, Mr. Phyu Nini, 22, was found severely injured after fleeing approximately 200 metres to another apartment building to seek help. He had sustained stab wounds to his left side, back, and chest. Emergency responders rushed him to Queen Savang Vadhana Memorial Hospital for treatment. Authorities have sent the deceased’s body to Laem Chabang Hospital for a full autopsy. Police are currently reviewing witness testimonies and security footage to identify and locate the assailant. The motive behind the attack is still under investigation. -- 2025-04-16

Taxi Driver Assaulted with Beer Bottle & Robbed by Passenger in Bangkok Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A Bangkok taxi driver was attacked with a beer bottle and robbed of his mobile phone by a passenger who then fled the scene, police have confirmed. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357841-taxi-driver-assaulted-with-beer-bottle-robbed-by-passenger-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A Bangkok taxi driver was attacked with a beer bottle and robbed of his mobile phone by a passenger who then fled the scene, police have confirmed. The incident occurred on Khlong 13 East Road in the Nong Chok district of the capital. Police from Pracha Samran Police Station were called to the scene where they found the victim, Mr. Wilai, 54, bleeding from a head wound. Rescue workers administered first aid at the scene before Mr. Wilai provided a statement to investigators. According to the driver, the suspect boarded the taxi in the Lat Krabang area near a local technology institute, asking to be taken to Khlong 14 Lang. However, the passenger allegedly instructed the driver to keep circling the area aimlessly for some time. When the vehicle reached a quiet stretch of road, the passenger reportedly struck Mr. Wilai on the head with a beer bottle, causing a laceration. The attacker then grabbed the driver’s white Samsung phone, estimated to be worth around 5,000 baht, and fled the scene. Police have launched a manhunt for the suspect and are reviewing CCTV footage from nearby areas to identify and apprehend the assailant. Mr. Wilai has filed a formal complaint and is recovering from his injuries. Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the suspect to come forward as the investigation continues. -- 2025-04-16