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Baseball Bat Attacker Surrenders After Violent Songkran Rampage in Korat Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A man seen in viral footage wielding a baseball bat during a violent incident at a Songkran celebration in Seeng Sang district has surrendered to police, as new claims emerge suggesting he may have been provoked. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357834-baseball-bat-attacker-surrenders-after-violent-songkran-rampage-in-korat/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A man seen in viral footage wielding a baseball bat during a violent incident at a Songkran celebration in Seeng Sang district has surrendered to police, as new claims emerge suggesting he may have been provoked. The suspect, identified only as Mr F, 31, turned himself in to Pol. Col. Thuengporn Pantong, superintendent of Seeng Sang Police Station, after widespread public outrage over the shocking attack. Video clips circulated on social media showed the man, shirtless and wearing a yellow headscarf, attacking vehicles and striking a woman who was using her phone to record the scene. The violence took place during a festive gathering on “Khao Khua Road” and quickly spiralled into chaos. Initial reports indicated that the man smashed two vehicles, assaulted multiple individuals including women and children, and stole car keys before fleeing. Several victims suffered serious injuries, including a broken arm, head wounds requiring stitches, and heavy bruising. However, in a new twist, family members of the suspect claim he acted in self-defence. According to relatives, Mr F had been assaulted first by members of another group. They allege that the baseball bat used in the attack originally belonged to that group and was seized by Mr F during the scuffle. His mother told reporters that her family, including teenagers, adults, and children, had been attending Songkran festivities in town and were preparing to return home when the confrontation began. They had parked their vehicles along the roadside when tensions flared, ultimately erupting into violence. The full circumstances surrounding the incident are still under investigation. Police are currently reviewing security footage and witness statements to determine the exact sequence of events and whether charges will be filed against any other individuals. Authorities have called for calm and urged the public not to jump to conclusions while the investigation continues. Meanwhile, the victims and their families are still calling for justice. -- 2025-04-16

Teen Killed, Another Critically Injured in Shooting in Sisaket Picture captured from CCTV A 15-year-old boy has been shot dead and another seriously wounded after a gunman opened fire on a group of teenagers with a shotgun and handgun in the early hours of the morning of 15 April, in Nam Kliang district, Sisaket province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357832-teen-killed-another-critically-injured-in-shooting-in-sisaket/

Picture captured from CCTV A 15-year-old boy has been shot dead and another seriously wounded after a gunman opened fire on a group of teenagers with a shotgun and handgun in the early hours of the morning of 15 April, in Nam Kliang district, Sisaket province. The incident occurred just after midnight near the community hall in Ban Khoen village, Moo 4, Khoen sub-district. Witnesses say the assailant fired approximately eight shots at the group before approaching the victims to confirm the fatality. The deceased has been identified as Mr Peerapan, aged 15, while the injured, Mr Natthaphon, 18, remains in critical condition. Local authorities and reporters arrived at the scene shortly after the incident. Blood stains and two overturned motorbikes were found at the site, and the motorcycles are believed to belong to the victims. According to Mr Yailak Janto, the village headman, he was attending a mor lam event at a nearby temple when he was notified of the shooting. “I rushed to the scene and saw two young men lying on the ground with two motorbikes nearby. I called the police and emergency services immediately,” Mr Yailak said. He added that the motive for the attack is still unclear but suspects previous tensions between the groups. The suspect, Mr Kamnat Saensuk, aged 28, turned himself in to Nam Kliang Police Station at around 05:00. Police have launched an investigation to determine the motive behind the shooting. Initial charges filed against Mr Kamnat include murder, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, discharging a firearm in a public place without justifiable reason, and carrying a weapon without a permit. Police confirmed they have obtained CCTV footage from the area, which captured the suspect firing both a shotgun and a handgun at the victims. The footage also reportedly shows the shooter approaching the victims after firing, allegedly to ensure a fatal outcome. Authorities are continuing to question the suspect and examine forensic evidence as they build a case. -- 2025-04-16

Garbage Truck Runs Over Pedestrian Near Don Mueang District Office A man was killed early morning on 15 April, when he was run over by a garbage truck shortly after it departed from the Don Mueang District Office. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357831-garbage-truck-runs-over-pedestrian-near-don-mueang-district-office/

Picture from responders. A man was killed early morning on 15 April, when he was run over by a garbage truck shortly after it departed from the Don Mueang District Office. Police from Don Mueang Police Station, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Jirapath Paengjai, responded to the scene of the fatal collision on Cherdwutagard Road, near the intersection by the district office. Upon arrival, officers found a green HINO garbage truck, registration number from Bangkok, with its driver, Mr. Ittiphon, waiting at the scene. The lifeless body of an unidentified male was discovered trapped beneath the rear right wheel of the vehicle. According to Mr. Ittiphon’s initial statement, he had just left the district office en route to a local market when he heard a disturbing crunching sound. The vehicle struggled to move forward, prompting him to stop and inspect. To his horror, he discovered the man had been run over. Emergency personnel from Bhumibol Hospital were called to the scene, along with forensic investigators, to examine the body and document the scene. Authorities are now reviewing CCTV footage from the surrounding area to determine the exact circumstances of the incident. An autopsy will be conducted to assist in the investigation, while efforts continue to identify the deceased. Police have not yet filed charges and say the investigation remains ongoing. -- 2025-04-16

Elder Brother Kills Addicted Sibling to Protect Father in Udon Thani Incident Picture courtesy of Khoasod. In a harrowing case, a 46-year-old man fatally struck his younger brother with a wooden stick to stop him from attacking their elderly father. The suspect, who immediately surrendered to police, claimed he acted in defence of their parent. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357830-elder-brother-kills-addicted-sibling-to-protect-father-in-udon-thani-incident/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. In a harrowing case, a 46-year-old man fatally struck his younger brother with a wooden stick to stop him from attacking their elderly father. The suspect, who immediately surrendered to police, claimed he acted in defence of their parent. At approximately 18:15 on 14 April, Pol. Lt. Sarawut Chomphuthon, deputy investigator at Phen Police Station, received reports of a fatal domestic incident in Village 6 of Ban Sri Boonruang, Na Phu Subdistrict, Phen District, Udon Thani Province. Upon arrival at the single-storey concrete residence, authorities discovered the lifeless body of 44-year-old Mr. Woradeth, lying in a pool of blood behind the house. A knife sheath was found near his right hand, while the blade was located beside a banana tree. A one-metre eucalyptus stick, believed to be the murder weapon, lay near a water jar. Forensic teams noted signs of struggle at the scene. An autopsy revealed a deep laceration above the right ear and severe swelling on the head, indicating blunt force trauma. Standing at the scene awaiting arrest was the victim’s older brother, Mr. Prayat, who confessed to the killing. He told police he was compelled to act after his brother, allegedly high on methamphetamine, threatened their 68-year-old father with a knife. The father, Mr. Nuchon, explained that both sons had previously married and divorced before returning to live with their parents. The younger son, Mr. Woradeth, reportedly had a long history of substance abuse and frequently demanded money to buy methamphetamine and alcohol. When refused, he would become violent, brandishing weapons and destroying household items. On the day of the incident, Mr. Woradeth had already received 40 baht twice, first to buy alcohol, then methamphetamine. Later, he began threatening their father once again. Normally, Mr. Nuchon would flee to stay with relatives during such outbursts. This time, however, the elder son intervened. A violent altercation followed, culminating in the fatal blow. “I love both my sons,” Mr. Nuchon said with sorrow. “But I didn’t expect it to end like this. I don’t know what else I could have done.” The case is now under formal investigation, with Mr. Prayat in custody awaiting further legal procedures. -- 2025-04-16

Thief Arrested After Snatching Handbag from Australian Tourist in Patong Picture courtesy of Matichon. Police have arrested a 42-year-old Thai man following the snatch theft of a handbag belonging to an Australian female tourist in Patong, Phuket. The suspect was captured after a swift investigation by local police in collaboration with the Tourist Police. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357804-thief-arrested-after-snatching-handbag-from-australian-tourist-in-patong/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Police have arrested a 42-year-old Thai man following the snatch theft of a handbag belonging to an Australian female tourist in Patong, Phuket. The suspect was captured after a swift investigation by local police in collaboration with the Tourist Police. The incident occurred at approximately 08:45 on 14 April, when the victim reported to Patong Police Station that her shoulder bag had been snatched while she was walking along the beachfront road in Patong. The bag contained AU$300 in cash, a mobile phone, and other personal belongings. Pol. Col. Chalermchai Hoernsawat, Superintendent of Patong Police, immediately ordered an investigation team to pursue the suspect. Under the directive of Pol. Lt. Gen. Saksira Phueak-am, Commissioner of the Tourist Police Bureau, Tourist Police Division 3, led by Pol. Col. Narapol Watthanakornthawee and Pol. Lt. Col. Ekachai Siri, collaborated with Patong officers to investigate the case. The joint task force reviewed CCTV footage and traced the suspect’s escape route towards Mueang District, Phuket. After an extensive manhunt, the suspect was located and apprehended. During the arrest, police recovered AU$200 and the stolen mobile phone, both confirmed to belong to the victim. The man confessed to the crime. He was charged and was handed over to Patong Police investigators for further legal proceedings. Authorities reiterated their commitment to maintaining tourist safety and reaffirmed that swift action would continue to be taken against any crimes affecting visitors to Thailand. -- 2025-04-15

UPDATE Drunk Driver Who Ploughed into Songkran Revellers Granted Bail Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 44-year-old man who drove his pickup truck into a crowd celebrating Songkran, Thailand’s New Year water festival, has been granted bail, police confirmed on 15 April. The incident, which occurred in the Klong Udom village area of Thung Praya subdistrict, Sanam Chai Khet district, left multiple people injured, including one in serious condition. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357769-pickup-truck-ploughs-through-songkran-revellers-injuring-nearly-20-driver-beaten-by-mob/#findComment-19733345

UPDATE Drunk Driver Who Ploughed into Songkran Revellers Granted Bail Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 44-year-old man who drove his pickup truck into a crowd celebrating Songkran, Thailand’s New Year water festival, has been granted bail, police confirmed on 15 April. The incident, which occurred in the Klong Udom village area of Thung Praya subdistrict, Sanam Chai Khet district, left multiple people injured, including one in serious condition. The driver, identified as Mr. Suraphon from Khao Mai Kaew in Kabin Buri district, Prachinburi province, was reportedly intoxicated at the time. Police said he was arrested at the scene by officers from Wangkhu Police Station and was later charged with two offences: driving under the influence and reckless driving causing serious injury. According to Pol. Col. Kriengkrai Boonsorn, Provincial Police Chief of Chachoengsao, the suspect had no prior criminal record. Pol. Col. Phuwadon Phisutthinaraset, Superintendent of Wangkhu Police Station, added that Mr. Suraphon applied for bail using a surety based on his position as a subdistrict headman, with an asset value of 200,000 baht or a cash bond of 100,000 baht. The court approved the bail request, citing the defendant’s legal right to apply. Witnesses reported the driver appeared confused and ignored calls from local residents to exit his vehicle following the crash. The incident, which took place on a narrow six-metre-wide village road, occurred amid heavy rain and poor driving conditions. The road was filled with people enjoying Songkran festivities at the time. The suspect, who has worked at a Japanese-owned factory in the 304 Industrial Estate for 18 years, is said to have only minor injuries. Breathalyser results showed an alcohol level well above the legal limit. The vehicle sustained minor damage to the front bonnet, consistent with striking pedestrians. Investigations revealed that Mr. Suraphon had earlier been participating in the water celebrations before attempting to drive home. As of the afternoon of 15 April, all but one of the injured individuals had been discharged from hospital. One person remains under medical care at Sanam Chai Khet Hospital. Doctors are continuing to monitor the patient’s condition to determine the severity of the injuries. Local authorities continue to investigate the incident. The case has drawn widespread attention as communities across Thailand seek to balance festive traditions with public safety. -- 2025-04-15

138 Deaths in First Four Days of Songkran’s “Seven Dangerous Days” Pictures courtesy of DDPM. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has reported a total of 138 deaths and 1,002 injuries from 1,000 road accidents across Thailand during the first four days (11–14 April) of the Songkran festival’s road safety campaign. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357797-138-deaths-in-first-four-days-of-songkran’s-“seven-dangerous-days”/

Pictures courtesy of DDPM. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) has reported a total of 138 deaths and 1,002 injuries from 1,000 road accidents across Thailand during the first four days (11–14 April) of the Songkran festival’s road safety campaign. On 14 April alone, the fourth day of the campaign themed “Safe Driving, Accident-Free Thailand”, there were 241 reported crashes, resulting in 249 injuries and 34 fatalities. Speeding and drunk driving remain the leading causes of road crashes, accounting for 44.40% and 24.90% of incidents respectively. Poor visibility contributed to 14.52% of the crashes. Motorcycles were involved in a staggering 77.20% of all crashes, with most incidents occurring on straight roads (85.89%), particularly on highways and rural village roads. Crashes were most frequent during the late afternoon and evening, especially between 15:00 and 18:00. The age group most affected was 30–39 years, accounting for over 20% of casualties. Bangkok recorded the highest number of deaths (13), while Phatthalung reported the highest number of crashes (36) and Lampang the most injuries (40). Notably, 24 provinces reported zero fatalities so far. The Deputy Minister of Education, Surasak Phanchareonworakul, who heads the Songkran safety centre, said overall numbers had declined from last year, showing positive results from stricter enforcement. In response, authorities have intensified efforts to curb risky behaviour through community checkpoints and family-based monitoring systems. Law enforcement agencies have been ordered to strictly enforce traffic laws, especially concerning speeding, traffic signal violations, and illegal alcohol sales, including to minors under 20. In cases where underage individuals are found drinking and driving, police and local officials have been instructed to escort them and their vehicles home to prevent further incidents. Provinces have also been urged to closely monitor public water-splashing activities, prepare for the mass return of travellers to Bangkok and other economic zones, and ensure that public transport is both sufficient and safe. Operators of buses and vans have been instructed to check the mechanical condition of vehicles and screen drivers for alcohol consumption or sedative drug use before duty. The government also called for the establishment of roadside safety and rest stops along major highways to support drivers on long journeys. Deputy Director-General of DDPM, Saharat Wongsakunwiwat, stressed that today, marking the traditional Thai New Year, is the final official day of the Songkran festival, and many are expected to begin travelling back to Bangkok. Authorities are urging drivers to plan ahead, monitor traffic updates, and rest every four hours for at least 30 minutes during their journey. Amid forecasts of thunderstorms and strong winds in many parts of the country, including Bangkok and surrounding provinces, motorists have also been warned to avoid risky travel routes and remain alert to weather-related dangers such as lightning, falling trees, and unstable billboards. Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1357731-thailand’s-songkran-road-death-toll-reaches-100-after-just-three-days/ -- 2025-04-15

UPDATE Husband Surrenders After Fatally Shooting Karaoke Bar Owner Wife Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A man has surrendered to police after fatally shooting his wife, the owner of a karaoke bar in Sing Buri province, following a heated argument. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357738-karaoke-bar-owner-found-shot-dead-in-bedroom-husband-missing/#findComment-19732816

UPDATE Husband Surrenders After Fatally Shooting Karaoke Bar Owner Wife Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A man has surrendered to police after fatally shooting his wife, the owner of a karaoke bar in Sing Buri province, following a heated argument. The suspect, identified as Mr. Pramote, turned himself in at Bang Rachan District Police Station at approximately 15:30 on 14 April, accompanied by relatives. The victim, Ms. Ingfah, was found shot dead inside the couple’s home, which is located behind the karaoke bar she owned in the Bang Rachan district. CCTV footage from inside the premises showed that prior to the incident, the couple had been arguing. Investigators said that Mr. Pramote became enraged after being verbally abused by his wife. He then reportedly dragged her into the bedroom and shot her before fleeing the scene. Following his surrender, Mr. Pramote was questioned by police for over two hours. Pol. Col. Chaiwat Kiatkongkamchai, Deputy Commander of Sing Buri Provincial Police, stated that the suspect confessed to the crime, claiming he acted out of anger and emotional distress. Later in the day, officers escorted Mr. Pramote to the scene of the crime to re-enact the events as part of the investigative process, a standard procedure in Thai criminal investigations. Authorities have charged Mr. Pramote with murder. -- 2025-04-15

‘Magic 2025’ Campaign Aims to Boost Indian Visitor Numbers to Thailand Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A major corporate tourism initiative titled Magic 2025 is currently underway at IMPACT Arena, Muang Thong Thani, as Thailand looks to attract a record number of Indian visitors this year. Hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in collaboration with India’s Zebra Events & Exhibition Pvt. Ltd., the event runs from 11 to 15 April and welcomes 10,000 Indian direct marketing sales representatives. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357790-‘magic-2025’-campaign-aims-to-boost-indian-visitor-numbers-to-thailand/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A major corporate tourism initiative titled Magic 2025 is currently underway at IMPACT Arena, Muang Thong Thani, as Thailand looks to attract a record number of Indian visitors this year. Hosted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) in collaboration with India’s Zebra Events & Exhibition Pvt. Ltd., the event runs from 11 to 15 April and welcomes 10,000 Indian direct marketing sales representatives. The programme, which promotes Thailand as a premier destination for high-spending corporate travellers, includes training on lifestyle and tourism products. Police Major General Pongsayam Meekhanthong, Deputy Commissioner of the Tourist Police, welcomed participants at the official opening ceremony held at Challenger Hall. Part of TAT’s wider efforts to position Thailand as a top-tier MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions) hub, Magic 2025 is seen as a strategic move to expand the corporate tourism market and enhance long-term tourism spending. India is now one of Thailand’s most vital tourism markets, with a record-breaking 2.1 million Indian arrivals recorded in 2024. Between 1 January and 9 April 2025, Thailand has already welcomed 597,709 Indian tourists, over two-thirds of whom were first-time visitors. Independent travellers made up 75.2% of arrivals, while 24.8% visited as part of organised tour groups. Indian tourists travel to Thailand for a range of reasons, from leisure and business to weddings and special celebrations. Travel peaks during India’s major holiday seasons, especially January to February and December, with significant numbers arriving from northern and northeastern states. Popular Thai destinations among Indian travellers include Bangkok, Chonburi, Phuket, Krabi, and Surat Thani, each catering to diverse groups such as families, millennial tourists, wellness enthusiasts, golf holidaymakers, honeymooners, and emerging demographics like solo women travellers, senior citizens, and adventure tourists. During the Songkran period, participants in Magic 2025 are also taking part in the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2025, supporting the “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025” campaign. Thailand’s appeal to the Indian market is buoyed by a number of favourable factors. India’s rising population, coupled with evolving consumer trends that favour lifestyle spending and frequent overseas travel, has significantly contributed to increased interest in Thailand. A major facilitator has been the 60-day visa exemption for Indian tourists, which came into effect on 15 July 2024. This policy has simplified entry procedures and opened the door for more high-quality, repeat visitors. With this supportive landscape, TAT has set an ambitious target of welcoming 2.3 million Indian visitors in 2025, aiming to generate tourism revenue of 101.6 billion baht. -- 2025-04-15

Brawl in Pattaya as Alleged Taxi Enforcers Assaults Indian Tourist Picture courtesy of SiamChon. Authorities have been urged to investigate a street brawl in Pattaya that was widely circulated on social media, showing some Thai men, allegedly local taxi or songthaew queue enforcer, attacking a foreign tourist near the entrance to the city’s Walking Street. Full story and video:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357771-brawl-in-pattaya-as-alleged-taxi-enforcers-assaults-indian-tourist/

Picture courtesy of SiamChon. Authorities have been urged to investigate a street brawl in Pattaya that was widely circulated on social media, showing some Thai men, allegedly local taxi or songthaew queue enforcer, attacking a foreign tourist near the entrance to the city’s Walking Street. The incident, which took place along Pattaya Beach Road in South Pattaya, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province, was captured in a 40-second video clip posted by Facebook user “Tanyong Tanyong” in the popular “Pattaya Talk” group. The caption read simply, “Oh my God,” as the footage quickly went viral, drawing widespread criticism and condemnation. In the video, a man wearing what appeared to be motorcycle taxi vest, with others, are seen throwing punches at a man believed to be an Indian tourist. The assault took place in full view of passersby, other tourists, and traffic, without apparent concern for public decency or legal consequences. Witnesses speculated that the attackers may be part of a group who work in the area enticing tourists onto local transport services, a practice often associated with turf disputes and extortion in Thailand’s tourist hotspots. Critics have called attention to the fact that the assailants’ motorcycle taxi vests did not appear to show any identifying numbers or officially registered stand locations, raising questions about the legitimacy of the operation. Officials have been urged to investigate whether the individual involved was a licensed operator and to clarify what measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. Pattaya authorities have not yet issued a formal statement. The video continues to spark intense online debate, with many users demanding stricter regulation and enforcement against so-called “mafia-style” behaviour in tourist areas. -- 2025-04-15 ScreenRecording_04-15-2025 05-15-16_1.mp4

Pickup Truck Ploughs Through Songkran Revellers, Injuring Nearly 20, Driver Beaten by Mob Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A shocking incident marred Songkran celebrations in Chachoengsao province on 14 April when a pickup truck driver rammed through a large crowd of water festival revellers, injuring nearly 20 people, six of them seriously. The chaotic aftermath saw an enraged crowd of over a hundred people drag the driver from the vehicle and beat him severely before police arrived. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357769-pickup-truck-ploughs-through-songkran-revellers-injuring-nearly-20-driver-beaten-by-mob/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A shocking incident marred Songkran celebrations in Chachoengsao province on 14 April when a pickup truck driver rammed through a large crowd of water festival revellers, injuring nearly 20 people, six of them seriously. The chaotic aftermath saw an enraged crowd of over a hundred people drag the driver from the vehicle and beat him severely before police arrived. The incident occurred around 19:20, in Ban Khlong Udom, Thung Phraya subdistrict, Sanam Chai Khet district. A Facebook user, “Nattawut Yongkul,” who was at the scene, shared photos and a video of the horrific moment the vehicle ploughed into people who were celebrating in the street. Witnesses reported that one person was trapped beneath the vehicle. Locals rushed in to lift the pickup off the victim and tend to the wounded while urgently calling for ambulances. Emergency services were eventually able to reach the scene and transport the injured to nearby hospitals. The driver’s motives remain unclear, but according to onlookers, he appeared to deliberately speed into the crowd. As panic turned to fury, the crowd smashed the truck’s windows and attacked the man inside. Video footage shows several people trying to restrain others from inflicting further harm while waiting for the police. The driver was eventually rescued from the mob by authorities and taken into custody. An investigation is now underway to determine whether the act was intentional or due to reckless driving under the influence. Local police have appealed for calm and urged the public to let justice take its course through legal channels. -- 2025-04-15

Elderly Man, 82, Dies After Being Caught in Blaze While Burning Rice Stubble in Surin An 82-year-old man lost his life after being overcome by smoke and flames while burning rice stubble in a field near his home in Surin province. The incident occurred on 14 April, despite repeated warnings from family members not to engage in the dangerous activity. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357768-elderly-man-82-dies-after-being-caught-in-blaze-while-burning-rice-stubble-in-surin/

Picture from responders. An 82-year-old man lost his life after being overcome by smoke and flames while burning rice stubble in a field near his home in Surin province. The incident occurred on 14 April, despite repeated warnings from family members not to engage in the dangerous activity. Police Lieutenant Thienthip Uthes, deputy investigator at Phianram Police Station in Mueang District, together with forensic doctors from Surin Hospital and rescue workers, responded to the scene in Ban Nadi, Village No. 1, Nadi subdistrict. The man, identified as Mr. Kaew, was found face-down and severely burned approximately 500 metres from the main road, in the middle of a rice field. His body was sent to Surin Hospital for a post-mortem examination in accordance with legal procedures. According to Ms. Somrak, a relative of the deceased, Mr. Kaew had a habit of burning rice stubble in the fields and had already been rescued twice in previous incidents. Despite repeated pleas from his family to stop, he insisted on continuing the practice. On this occasion, he left home early in the morning to burn the stubble once more. The rescue team from Nadi revealed that in the past, Mr. Kaew had accidentally allowed flames to spread to neighbouring fields. In those instances, he had attempted to extinguish the fire himself using tree branches, fearing he would be blamed by nearby farmers. The team believed that once again the fire may have spread, and in his effort to stop it, he succumbed to smoke inhalation and collapsed. No one was nearby to help, as most villagers were attending a local Songkran festival at the temple. By the time Mr. Kaew was found, it was too late, he had already died. Authorities have urged the public, particularly the elderly, to avoid burning agricultural waste during the dry season due to the high risk of uncontrollable fires and harmful smoke. -- 2025-04-15

Doi Pha Hom Pok National Park Ranger Dies While Battling Forest Fire Picture courtesy of Daily News. An officer from Doi Pha Hom Pok National Park has died in the line of duty while helping to extinguish a forest fire in Chiang Mai’s Fang district. The officer, identified as Mr. Pongdanai Jaipik, went missing during operations and was later found deceased. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357767-doi-pha-hom-pok-national-park-ranger-dies-while-battling-forest-fire/