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Picture courtesy of Naewna. Rescue workers in Trang launched a dramatic and time-sensitive operation on the morning of 27 July, to save a 51-year-old man who had fallen into an abandoned 13-metre-deep well while picking kratom leaves behind a neighbour’s house. The victim, later identified as Mr Witit Mora, had been using a narrow concrete pipe ledge inside the well to support himself and avoid drowning in the water below, while calling for help. He was ultimately rescued in a joint operation between firefighters, local disaster prevention officials and the Kusolsathan Trang Rescue Foundation. The incident occurred behind house number 45/5 on Rak Chan Road in Tab Tiang Subdistrict, Mueang Trang District. Emergency services were alerted just after 06;00 and quickly coordinated a response, led by Sub Lt. Songsak Songsing, Head of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation for Trang Municipality. Upon arrival, rescue teams located the victim at the bottom of a narrow concrete pipe well, partially submerged in water. The well, located beneath a kratom tree, had a narrow mouth, only 1.2 metres wide and about 20 cm above ground level. Mr Witit had fallen while picking a few leaves for chewing before work, a daily routine of his. Despite his exhaustion, the victim remained conscious and was able to communicate with rescuers. However, the well’s depth and lack of ventilation were causing him to experience increasing difficulty breathing. Working against the clock, rescuers lowered a rope into the well and instructed Mr Witit to secure it around himself, but he was unable to o complete this. Sub Lt. Songsak was then lowered into the well, tied the rope around the victim and coordinated with the team above to slowly hoist him up through the opening, which was surrounded by overgrown vegetation. The rescue operation lasted approximately one hour and was met with relief from both emergency personnel and local residents. Mr Witit was assessed at the scene before being transported to Trang Provincial Hospital for a full medical evaluation. Initial reports confirmed he sustained only minor abrasions to his left elbow. Speaking after the incident, Mr Witit said: “I live next door and went out just after 6 a.m. to pick a few kratom leaves as I usually do. I didn’t see the well opening and accidentally stepped into it. I was lucky that the concrete was just wide enough for me to brace myself and avoid going under.” The property’s owner, Mr Panya Kraisut 48, said the well was disused and uncovered, as it was not located on a walking path. His wife, who was at home, heard the man’s cries for help and called him at work, prompting immediate assistance. Mr Panya added that he had been planning to remove the kratom tree and would now ensure the well is covered to prevent future incidents. Adapted by Asean Now from Naewna 2025-07-28

Cambodian Shelling Damages Rural Health Centre in Sisaket Border Clash Picture courtesy of Matichon. A rural health centre in Kantharalak District, Sisaket Province, suffered extensive damage after being struck by Cambodian artillery during border clashes on 26 July. The shelling, which occurred at approximately 15:30, caused near-total destruction of medical equipment and significant structural damage to the Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospital (Ror Por Sor) in Saotongchai. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368018-cambodian-shelling-damages-rural-health-centre-in-sisaket-border-clash/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A rural health centre in Kantharalak District, Sisaket Province, suffered extensive damage after being struck by Cambodian artillery during border clashes on 26 July. The shelling, which occurred at approximately 15:30, caused near-total destruction of medical equipment and significant structural damage to the Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospital (Ror Por Sor) in Saotongchai. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported, as the facility had already been evacuated due to prior hostilities in the area near the disputed Preah Vihear border zone. Medical staff, patients and most local residents had fled following ongoing exchanges of fire between Thai and Cambodian forces. When local reporters visited the scene on 27 July, they described a ghost town atmosphere. Sporadic artillery fire could still be heard in the distance, and the surrounding area appeared deserted. Only a handful of village defence volunteers (Chor Ror Bor) and local administrative officers remained on duty. Military sources stated that Cambodia has not ceased attacks and continues to deploy heavy weaponry indiscriminately across the border. The Royal Thai Army has accused the Cambodian side of intentionally targeting civilian infrastructure outside of recognised military zones. A field assessment of the damaged facility revealed artillery rounds had pierced the building, shattering windows, blowing doors off hinges and crushing much of the remaining medical equipment that had not been removed in time. Portions of the structure have begun to collapse due to the force of the explosions, and the lingering smell of gunpowder remains thick in the air. A local Chor Ror Bor volunteer described the event as devastating: “The health centre is a lifeline for villagers. It should have been protected, but instead, it became a target. The shelling spared nothing, not even essential services meant to care for the sick.” The attack has drawn concern over violations of international humanitarian norms, which prohibit the targeting of civilian facilities, particularly healthcare infrastructure. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-07-28

CIB Arrests Man in Violent Robbery Case Under Rama VII Bridge Picture courtesy of CIB Officers from The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) have arrested 18-year-old Thanakorn, known by the alias “Tee Bang Kruai”, on 26 July, in connection with a violent armed robbery that left a victim seriously injured beneath the Rama VII Bridge. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368017-cib-arrests-man-in-violent-robbery-case-under-rama-vii-bridge/

Picture courtesy of CIB Officers from The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) have arrested 18-year-old Thanakorn, known by the alias “Tee Bang Kruai”, on 26 July, in connection with a violent armed robbery that left a victim seriously injured beneath the Rama VII Bridge. The arrest was ordered by Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Bhuridej, Commissioner of the CIB, and carried out under the command of Pol. Maj. Gen. Wittaya Sriprasertphap, Commander of the Crime Suppression Division, along with a coordinated team of senior officers. Tee was apprehended on a public road in Soi Rattanathibet, Nonthaburi Province, under a warrant issued by the Central Juvenile and Family Court (No. จ.24/2568 dated 2 April 2025). He faces charges of armed robbery causing grievous bodily harm, using a vehicle to commit the offence or to flee the scene, and carrying a knife in public without valid reason. The arrest stems from a brutal incident on 13 November 2024 at approximately 04:30, when a group of three assailants attacked a man under the Rama VII Bridge as he used his mobile phone. One attacker slashed the victim’s left arm with a knife before fleeing with his belongings. The case was reported to Prachachuen Police Station, which initiated an investigation using CCTV footage. A crucial lead came while the victim was hospitalised at Phra Nang Klao Hospital. In conversation, a fellow patient revealed a similar attack in the same area by a group of youths matching the same description. This prompted investigators to coordinate with Bang Kruai Police Station. On 20 November 2024, investigators identified a suspect matching the description and found several items worn by the individual that matched those reported stolen. A search of his residence uncovered additional incriminating evidence. The suspect admitted involvement and implicated others still at large. Following this, an arrest warrant was issued for Thanakorn, who had gone into hiding in Nonthaburi. The CIB team traced his location and successfully apprehended him. A background check revealed an extensive criminal record. At age 15, Tee had been involved in an attempted murder case in the Bang Phlat area. The following year, he was arrested for illegal possession of a firearm in Bang Kruai. At 17, he committed a robbery in Prachachuen, the same district as the current case. Following his arrest, Tee confessed to all charges. He was handed over to Prachachuen Police Station for formal legal proceedings. Authorities continue to pursue the remaining suspects involved in the attack. Adapted by Asean Now from Naewna 2025-07-28

Woman Found Dead in Nonthaburi Rented Room After Suspected Suicide Picture courtesy of Naewna A 45-year-old woman was found dead by apparent suicide in a rented room in Bang Yai District, Nonthaburi, in the early hours of 27 July, following an argument with her younger boyfriend. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368016-woman-found-dead-in-nonthaburi-rented-room-after-suspected-suicide/

Picture courtesy of Naewna A 45-year-old woman was found dead by apparent suicide in a rented room in Bang Yai District, Nonthaburi, in the early hours of 27 July, following an argument with her younger boyfriend. Police and forensic investigators were called to the scene after receiving a report of a woman found hanging inside a room on the second floor of a two-storey rental building in the Saothonghin area. The deceased, identified as Ms. Pratchchukarn, was discovered in a seated position, wearing a black T-shirt and black skirt, with a nylon rope tied to the balcony railing at the rear of the room. No signs of struggle were found. The report was confirmed by Pol. Lt. Danakorn Teehlong, an investigator with Bang Yai Police Station. Rescue volunteers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation and medical staff from the Institute of Forensic Medicine were dispatched to examine the scene. Mr. Yothin, 38, the deceased’s boyfriend and a street food vendor, told police that the pair had been drinking at a local restaurant earlier in the evening and got into an argument. “She always got jealous when I drank. We’ve been seeing each other since 2020. Even though she had a family, she would come stay with me every weekend and help clean my room,” he said. According to Mr. Yothin, the deceased was very controlling in the relationship. “She had all my passwords, checked my Facebook and TikTok, even monitored my livestreams. Sometimes she’d message me in the middle of the night after seeing me online,” he said. He added that upon returning home later that night, he found the door to the room unlocked and initially saw her sitting on the balcony. “I didn’t think anything of it at first. But after a few moments, something felt off. When I looked again, I realised she had taken her own life.” Mr. Yothin said he had not noticed any warning signs in the days leading up to the incident. Police are continuing their investigation and have questioned Mr. Yothin as part of standard procedure. While early indications suggest jealousy or emotional distress may have been a factor, authorities have not ruled out other possibilities and plan to interview additional individuals connected to the deceased. The body has been sent to the Institute of Forensic Medicine for a post-mortem examination. Adapted by Asean Now from Naewna 2025-07-28

Main Opposition Party Shuts Down Website at Government’s Request Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Thailand’s main opposition group, the People’s Party, has agreed to shut down its website covering developments in the Thai-Cambodian border conflict following a request from the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters. The move comes amid government concerns over the potential misuse of publicly available information during escalating clashes near the border. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368015-main-opposition-party-shuts-down-website-at-government’s-request/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Thailand’s main opposition group, the People’s Party, has agreed to shut down its website covering developments in the Thai-Cambodian border conflict following a request from the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters. The move comes amid government concerns over the potential misuse of publicly available information during escalating clashes near the border. In a statement released on 27 July, People’s Party spokesperson Parit Wacharasindhu confirmed the decision but firmly denied that the party’s website had ever published sensitive or compromising information. He insisted that the platform had merely aggregated publicly available updates from official government sources in an effort to keep citizens informed. “The People’s Party website has never disseminated any content that would endanger Thai citizens or be exploitable by Cambodian forces,” said Parit. “We have not published coordinates of evacuation centres, details of troop movements, or the impact zones of shelling.” The party stressed that all information on the website originated from state agencies, such as the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, the Royal Thai Army, the Thai Red Cross Society, and announcements by provincial governors. Medical facility locations were also drawn from public platforms such as Google Maps. According to the statement, the website aimed to centralise fragmented official announcements to make critical information, such as evacuation orders, danger zones and blood donation appeals, more easily accessible to the public. Over the past three days, the site had received over three million visits. “Out of respect for the government’s responsibilities in safeguarding lives, we have cooperated and taken the website offline,” said the People’s Party. However, the opposition also used the opportunity to call on the government to urgently improve crisis communication and local coordination. Among the key proposals put forward by the party were: • The creation of a centralised, rapid-response communication mechanism to ensure consistent, accurate updates for both Thai citizens and the international community. This, they said, would prevent confusion and counteract information operations allegedly being conducted by Cambodian authorities. • The immediate establishment of coordination centres in all affected provinces, to manage incoming aid, medical teams and supplies, and to provide accurate, consistent communication with local residents. • A renewed diplomatic push for a ceasefire, while simultaneously documenting and communicating evidence of Cambodian attacks, to reinforce Thailand’s position as acting in self-defence and seeking a peaceful resolution to the dispute. The People’s Party closed its statement by reaffirming its commitment to national unity during the crisis and expressing hope that the government will rise to the challenge of protecting the public, both on the battlefield and in the information space. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-07-28

Villagers in Tears as Blaze Destroys Entire School Building in Si Sa Ket Picture courtesy of SiamNews. Villagers were left in tears on the night of 26 July, as a fire tore through Ban Bon Witthaya School in Bueng Bon subdistrict, Yang Chum Noi district, completely destroying the two-storey building. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368014-villagers-in-tears-as-blaze-destroys-entire-school-building-in-si-sa-ket/

Picture courtesy of SiamNews. Villagers were left in tears on the night of 26 July, as a fire tore through Ban Bon Witthaya School in Bueng Bon subdistrict, Yang Chum Noi district, completely destroying the two-storey building. The blaze broke out at around 20:20, Mr. Wittaya Chaiyadechkamchorn, district chief of Yang Chum Noi, received an emergency call reporting the incident and immediately coordinated a response. Firefighting units from the Yang Chum Noi Municipality, led by Mayor Nuanjai Busabong and Deputy Mayor Nat Thongsaeng, were dispatched to the scene. They were joined by fire trucks from Bueng Bon, Lin Fa, and Khon Kam subdistrict administrations, a total of six vehicles. Upon arrival, firefighters found the school building, constructed of both concrete and timber, engulfed in flames. Despite efforts to contain the blaze, the structure was reduced to ruins. Initial assessments suggest the fire may have been caused by an electrical short circuit. Locals reported that the premises were unoccupied at the time and that the fire appeared to erupt suddenly and spread rapidly. However, forensic investigators have been called in to determine the exact cause. The loss of the school has left the local community devastated. “This school was the heart of our village,” one tearful resident said. “Watching it burn was like losing a part of our family.” No injuries were reported, and officials have yet to estimate the total value of the damage. The investigation is ongoing. Adapted by Asean Now from SiamNews 2025-07-28

Thai Airways Unveils Strategic Vision at THAI Commercial Conference 2025 Picture courtesy of Kaoded. Thai Airways International Public Company Limited has outlined its strategic direction for the coming year during the annual THAI Commercial Conference 2025, held under the theme “Aim Further: Strive for New Heights”. The event, held at the Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, brought together the airline’s global commercial partners, ticketing agents and regional representatives from Europe, Asia, Australia and Thailand, alongside executives and staff from international offices. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368013-thai-airways-unveils-strategic-vision-at-thai-commercial-conference-2025/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. Thai Airways International Public Company Limited has outlined its strategic direction for the coming year during the annual THAI Commercial Conference 2025, held under the theme “Aim Further: Strive for New Heights”. The event, held at the Bangkok Marriott Marquis Queen’s Park, brought together the airline’s global commercial partners, ticketing agents and regional representatives from Europe, Asia, Australia and Thailand, alongside executives and staff from international offices. Presiding over the event was Mr. Chai Eamsiri, Chief Executive Officer of Thai Airways. He was joined by Mr. Karakot Chatasingha, Chief Commercial Officer, who led the presentation of the airline’s commercial roadmap, covering global aviation trends and business development plans. The aim: to enhance the passenger experience while ensuring sustainable revenue growth. The conference showcased Thai Airways’ readiness to emerge stronger following its successful business rehabilitation. It also signals the airline’s ambition to return to the Stock Exchange of Thailand in the near future, reinforcing global business partners’ confidence in the company’s future. The event featured keynote addresses by international experts, including Mr. David Mann, Chief Economist for Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa at Mastercard, who spoke on global macroeconomic outlooks and tourism trends. Mr. Alex Haigh, Managing Director of Brand Finance Asia Pacific, offered insights into the role of brand value in strengthening airline competitiveness. In a forward-looking display of innovation, Thai Airways introduced new services and products designed to elevate customer experience. These included a Virtual Reality tour of the Airbus A321neo cabin, a revamped Sawasdee in-flight magazine, enhanced food and beverage offerings, new amenity kits for First and Business Class passengers, and premium products from the THAI Shop. A highlight of the event was a special fashion show, showcasing Thai Airways’ cabin crew uniforms from past to present. The presentation traced the airline’s 65-year journey from elegance to modern growth, encapsulated in the theme “Grace to Growth”. The showcase reflected the company’s commitment to blending tradition with innovation in delivering world-class service. The THAI Commercial Conference 2025 served as a vital platform to strengthen global partnerships and reaffirm Thai Airways’ position as Thailand’s national carrier. With renewed vigour and a clear strategic vision, the airline is poised to connect Thailand to the world, securely, sustainably, and with distinction. Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-07-28

Tourists Rescued After GPS Leads Them into Cornfield in Rain-Soaked Nakhon Ratchasima Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Two female tourists from Bangkok found themselves stranded in the middle of a muddy cornfield in Wang Nam Khiao District, Nakhon Ratchasima, after blindly following GPS directions during heavy rain on the night of 26 July. The pair had become lost near Pha Chom Tawan in Thai Samakkhi Subdistrict when their carbecame bogged down in thick mud, prompting a challenging late-night rescue. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368012-tourists-rescued-after-gps-leads-them-into-cornfield-in-rain-soaked nakhon-ratchasima/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Two female tourists from Bangkok found themselves stranded in the middle of a muddy cornfield in Wang Nam Khiao District, Nakhon Ratchasima, after blindly following GPS directions during heavy rain on the night of 26 July. The pair had become lost near Pha Chom Tawan in Thai Samakkhi Subdistrict when their car became bogged down in thick mud, prompting a challenging late-night rescue. At around 21:20, local rescue workers from Hook 31 Emergency Services received a call for assistance. The rescue was initiated after a nearby resort staff member managed to contact emergency services on the tourists’ behalf, as mobile phone signal in the area was weak and intermittent. Two rescue teams were dispatched to the remote site. Their journey was hindered by darkness, narrow farm tracks and persistent rainfall, which had turned the dirt roads into muddy traps. Cornfields lined both sides of the route, making the road nearly indistinguishable. It took nearly an hour for rescuers to reach the women. Upon arrival, the rescue team encountered the two tourists walking in the dark under umbrellas. They were then led to their vehicle, a Ford, which was stuck with its rear end off the track and mired in deep mud. The team spent considerable time and effort extricating the vehicle, working in difficult conditions that left them exhausted and covered in mud. The tourists explained they had travelled from Bangkok to attend a live music event at a local venue in Wang Nam Khiao. They had been relying on their GPS system, which led them off the main road and into a sparsely populated agricultural area. As visibility worsened and both sides of the road became nothing but cornfields, they tried to turn back. However, the rain-slicked surface caused the vehicle to slip into a ditch and become stuck. With limited mobile reception, they were unable to call for help themselves. Their fortunate encounter with the resort employee, who had stronger signal and called rescuers, likely prevented them from spending the night stranded in the field. Following the rescue, one of the women shared their experience on Facebook, thanking both the rescue team and resort staff. Her post ended on a light-hearted note: “We planned to see a concert, but ended up in a disaster zone instead — haha! But it was fun, exciting, and definitely a life experience. When GPS takes you for an unexpected adventure… almost ended up sleeping in a cornfield!” Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-07-28

Acting PM Visits Trat, Orders Provincial Governors to Guard Areas Amid Border Tensions Picture courtesy of amarin. Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai visited Trat province today to assess the security situation along the Thai-Cambodian border, following recent cross-border hostilities. During his visit, he ordered governors of seven frontier provinces to reinforce the defence of areas and ensure civilian protection. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368011-acting-pm-visits-trat-orders-provincial-governors-to-guard-areas-amid-border-tensions/

Picture courtesy of amarin. Deputy Prime Minister and Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai visited Trat province today to assess the security situation along the Thai-Cambodian border, following recent cross-border hostilities. During his visit, he ordered governors of seven frontier provinces to reinforce the defence of areas and ensure civilian protection. Chairing a high-level meeting at the Trat Provincial Hall at 11:00, on 27 July, Mr Phumtham was joined by senior Interior Ministry officials including Permanent Secretary Arsit Sumpandarat, Ministerial Secretary Chanin Rungtanakiat, Trat Governor Natthaphong Sanguanjit and representatives from local military and security units. Mr Phumtham was briefed by the Royal Thai Navy’s Special Task Force and the Trat Provincial Administration Office. He was informed that Cambodian forces had pulled back into their own territory and the immediate threat had been contained. However, both sides remain on high alert. So far, 4,754 people have been evacuated to 16 shelters across three districts, with contingency plans in place to accommodate up to 20,000 evacuees if necessary. Trat is one of six Thai provinces recently targeted by Cambodian artillery, prompting the Thai military to impose martial law in the affected zones. Mr Phumtham said his visit was intended to verify the readiness of local authorities to handle further escalation. “I’ve made it clear to all governors along the Cambodian border your job is to protect the rear areas, behind the front lines and keep civilians safe,” he stressed. “Cambodia has violated multiple international agreements. We must stand firm.” He reiterated that Thailand remains open to ceasefire negotiations, provided Cambodia demonstrates genuine goodwill. “We are prepared to cease fire, but the safety of Thai citizens must come first,” he said. “Cambodia must show sincerity in withdrawing troops. Despite previous talks, they’ve continued using heavy weaponry against our territory, damaging homes, hospitals and petrol stations.” Responding to a question about conversations with the US President, Mr Phumtham confirmed that Washington supports a ceasefire. “The frontline is the military’s domain, but civil authorities must manage the rear with full commitment,” he added. He noted that the government had already approved emergency contingency funding of 100 million baht per affected province to support crisis management, supply logistics, and civilian welfare. He also confirmed coordination with the Royal Thai Police to secure evacuated homes. In a final remark, Mr Phumtham urged the media to exercise caution when reporting on the location of civilian shelters, warning that such disclosures could compromise ongoing military operations. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-07-28

Body of Missing Southern Man Found After Drowning Off Nai Thon Beach Picture courtesy of Khoasod. The body of a 23-year-old man from southern Thailand who went missing while swimming off Nai Thon Beach has been recovered after a two-day search, authorities confirmed the morning of 27 July. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368010-body-of-missing-southern-man-found-after-drowning-off-nai-thon-beach/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. The body of a 23-year-old man from southern Thailand who went missing while swimming off Nai Thon Beach has been recovered after a two-day search, authorities confirmed the morning of 27 July. The victim, identified as Mr Nianus Saleh, originally from Padang Besar in Pattani province, had been working in Phuket. He was reported missing on the evening of 25 July after entering the sea with five friends at Nai Thon Beach. According to witnesses, he was swimming in deep water when powerful waves swept him away in front of his companions around 18:50. A major search and rescue operation was launched immediately, led by Thalang District Chief Siwatch Rawangkul, along with Dr Somkit Chokkhong, an advisor to the Phuket Governor, and Pol Col Salan Santisasanakul, Superintendent of Sakoo Police Station. The operation involved local authorities, rescue teams and concerned residents. A temporary search coordination centre was established and relatives of the victim travelled from Pattani to assist and await news. The Kusoldharm Foundation deployed 25 divers and seven inflatable boats to comb the surrounding waters and rocky coastline. The Cherngtalay Subdistrict Administrative Organisation also surveyed coastal areas within their jurisdiction. Additionally, search teams deployed drones to scan the rocky shoreline and open sea in the vicinity of the disappearance. At 06:55 on 27 July, search and rescue personnel from the Kusoldharm Foundation located Mr Nianus’s body near rocks off Nai Thon Beach. Grief-stricken family members confirmed his identity at the scene. The body was retrieved and transferred to Thalang Hospital, where forensic staff and police conducted an autopsy. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-07-28

Family Fleeing Border Clashes Injured in Collision with Lorry in Si Sa Ket Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Five members of a family, including a 10-year-old child, were injured in a serious road crash while fleeing intensifying clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border on the afternoon of 26 July. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368009-family-fleeing-border-clashes-injured-in-collision-with-lorry-in-si-sa-ket/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Five members of a family, including a 10-year-old child, were injured in a serious road crash while fleeing intensifying clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border on the afternoon of 26 July. The crash occurred at approximately 14:00 on the Kanthararom–Kantharalak road near Ban Nong Doom in Nong Hua Chang subdistrict, Kanthararom district. Police from Kanthararom Police Station, along with emergency rescue teams from Lak Muang Rescue Unit, responded swiftly to the scene. Upon arrival, authorities found a white Nissan Almera severely damaged at the roadside. All five occupants, including the child, were injured and rushed to Kanthararom Hospital for emergency treatment. The most critical was the driver, believed to have suffered multiple bone fractures. In the back seat, a 10-year-old boy was found unconscious. Nearby, a ten-wheeled lorry was discovered overturned in a ditch. The lorry driver was unharmed but taken in for questioning A relative of the injured family told reporters that the group had been travelling from Kanthararom back to their home in Kantharalak to retrieve belongings. They had been forced to evacuate days earlier due to the escalating violence at the border. The relative became concerned after phone calls to the group went unanswered and set out to search for them, eventually coming across the crash site. A witness at the scene said: “The driver was seriously injured and the boy in the back seat had passed out. We did what we could until emergency responders arrived.” Local reporters noted that the route linking Kantharalak to Kanthararom has become a key escape corridor for residents fleeing the conflict zone. The surge in traffic volume has contributed to an increase in crashes over the past few days, many caused by speeding or unfamiliarity with the road. As of now, police have not confirmed the exact cause of the collision and are reviewing CCTV footage and witness statements as part of their ongoing investigation. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-07-28

AI Surveillance Cameras Help Thai Tourist Police Arrest Nearly 300 Fugitives Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Tourist Police Bureau has successfully apprehended nearly 300 individuals with outstanding arrest warrants in the last year, thanks to the deployment of artificial intelligence (AI)-equipped surveillance cameras at key tourist destinations across the country. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368008-ai-surveillance-cameras-help-thai-tourist-police-arrest-nearly-300-fugitives/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Tourist Police Bureau has successfully apprehended nearly 300 individuals with outstanding arrest warrants in the last year, thanks to the deployment of artificial intelligence (AI)-equipped surveillance cameras at key tourist destinations across the country. According to Pol Lt Gen Saksira Phuekaam, Commissioner of the Tourist Police, the system was launched in July 2024 in cooperation with the Central Investigation Bureau. The advanced camera technology cross-references live footage with a central criminal database, allowing for real-time alerts when wanted individuals or high-risk persons enter monitored areas. The initiative is part of an ongoing campaign to improve safety and enhance tourist confidence, particularly in high-traffic destinations such as Pattaya, Chiang Mai, and Suvarnabhumi Airport. One recent example of the system’s effectiveness came at 10:00 on 26 July in Nong Khai Province. Officers from Tourist Police Division 5, working alongside immigration officials, received an AI camera alert flagging a 32-year-old man named Chanachai, wanted under Nakhon Sawan Provincial Court warrant No. 102/2567 dated 8 March 2024. He was charged with jointly committing theft using a vehicle to facilitate the offence or escape capture or for receiving stolen property. Upon identification he was detained by officers, the suspect attempted to flee, jumping over a barbed-wire fence and scaling a wall into a nearby residential property. He sustained a head injury in the process before being apprehended. He was later taken to Nong Khai Provincial Hospital for treatment before being transferred to Mae Wong Police Station in Nakhon Sawan for further legal proceedings. Since its launch, the AI system has led to the arrest of 291 suspects across multiple provinces, including: • Pattaya, Chonburi – 110 arrests • Nakhon Ratchasima – 89 arrests • Chiang Mai – 71 arrests • Suvarnabhumi Airport, Samut Prakan – 4 arrests • Khon Kaen – 9 arrests • Udon Thani – 3 arrests • Nong Khai – 2 arrests • Tak – 2 arrests • Nakhon Phanom – 1 arrest Tourist Police officials say the technology has significantly enhanced security in popular destinations, reassuring both domestic and international visitors. Authorities are considering expanding the AI camera system to additional locations in the coming months. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-07-28

Paetongtarn Visits Surin to Support Evacuees and Injured Soldiers Amid Border Clashes Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Suspended Prime Minister and Minister of Culture Paetongtarn Shinawatra visited Surin Province on 27 July, to offer support and distribute essential supplies to those displaced by the ongoing Thai-Cambodian border conflict. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1368007-paetongtarn-visits-surin-to-support-evacuees-and-injured-soldiers-amid-border-clashes/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Suspended Prime Minister and Minister of Culture Paetongtarn Shinawatra visited Surin Province on 27 July, to offer support and distribute essential supplies to those displaced by the ongoing Thai-Cambodian border conflict. Accompanied by her official delegation, the suspended Prime Minister travelled to the temporary evacuation centre at Rajamangala University of Technology Isan, Surin Campus, where approximately 1,400 evacuees are currently being sheltered. There, she met with affected residents, listened to their concerns, and oversaw the distribution of relief items aimed at easing the hardships brought on by the cross-border violence. Later in the day, Ms Paetongtarn visited Surin Hospital, where she met with Thai soldiers who had sustained injuries during recent clashes along the border. She expressed her gratitude and admiration for the bravery and resilience of the troops, and took time to commend the medical staff, police officers, volunteers and local residents for their tireless efforts in responding to the crisis. “The dedication and unity shown by everyone involved, from doctors and nurses to villagers and volunteers, is a testament to the strength of our nation during challenging times,” she said. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-07-28