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Drunk Man Steals Motorcycle with Sidecar, Crashes into Tree, One Dead, One Injured Picture courtesy of Khoasod. An incident unfolded in Buriram Province after a man, reportedly intoxicated, stole a motorcycle with a sidecar during a funeral ceremony, only to crash it into a tree, killing himself and seriously injuring his passenger. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357610-drunk-man-steals-motorcycle-with-sidecar-crashes-into-tree-one-dead-one-injured/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. An incident unfolded in Buriram Province after a man, reportedly intoxicated, stole a motorcycle with a sidecar during a funeral ceremony, only to crash it into a tree, killing himself and seriously injuring his passenger. The incident occurred on 11 April, Police Lieutenant Colonel Chalermchai Nernthoni, Deputy Inspector of Investigation at Nang Rong Police Station, was alerted to a road crash involving a motorcycle rider who had veered off the road and collided with a tree. Emergency response teams from the Chumsaeng and Nong Bo Subdistrict Administrative Organisations, Nang Rong Hospital, and the Buriram Highway Police Rescue Unit were dispatched to the scene. The crash took place near Saphan Khao Bridge on the Ban Salao – Ban Khok Krasang road in Chumsaeng Subdistrict, Nang Rong District. The vehicle, a motorcycle with a sidecar, had sustained heavy damage. Two men were found injured at the scene: Mr. Suchart, 42, who was critically injured and later succumbed to his wounds at Nang Rong Hospital, and Mr. Witsanu, 27, who suffered a badly broken leg but survived. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the two men riding erratically prior to the crash. Both were known locally and were often seen drinking together. Residents said the pair appeared heavily intoxicated and were swaying dangerously on the road before they lost control and struck the tree. The motorcycle belonged to Mr. Suwan, 72, who had parked it earlier that morning while attending a merit-making ceremony at a relative’s house in Khok Phluang Village. He left around 10:00, to tend to his cattle, only to return and discover the motorcycle missing. After alerting the village headman and searching in vain, he reported the theft to the police. Hours later, he learned that the stolen vehicle had been involved in the fatal crash. Mr. Suwan stated he had no intention of pressing charges, saying, “The man who took my motorcycle is already dead. There is no need to seek punishment now.” -- 2025-04-13

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. An incident has shaken the community following the fatal stabbing of a 26-year-old final-year engineering student in Pathum Thani. The victim, Mr. Thanat, was ambushed and stabbed multiple times by a group of more than ten youths. Authorities are investigating the motive, with early reports suggesting his belongings, including an iPad, mobile phone, and bag, were left untouched, but his engineering workshop jacket was missing. Mr. Thanat was a fourth-year student at a Rajamangala University of Technology and was undergoing an internship in the Bang Phun area. He had reportedly finished work and was believed to have stopped to buy food before returning home when the attack occurred. Eyewitnesses stated that a group of teenagers surrounded and assaulted the young man before fleeing the scene. The student suffered fatal stab wounds to the right side of his torso, right wrist, chest, abdomen, and left arm. Mr. Theerasak, the victim’s father, expressed deep grief at the scene. He revealed that his son, who was his only child, had not contacted him after work as usual. He only learned of the tragedy when contacted by authorities. Mr. Chokthanawat, a colleague and close friend of the victim’s father, shared that Thanat was a diligent and determined young man who was working hard to complete a report for his internship. “He was just talking to me earlier today about how proud his father was and how he had to stay focused on his career. It’s heartbreaking. He didn’t deserve this,” said Mr. Chokthanawat. He also explained that Thanat typically parked his vehicle at home and commuted with him to the internship site. They had dinner together the evening of the incident before parting ways. Later, Mr. Theerasak called to inform him of the attack. The case has raised concerns about youth violence and safety in the area. While the attackers’ motive remains unclear, the missing workshop jacket has led investigators to consider whether the assault was related to university rivalry or a targeted theft of the symbolic garment. Police are continuing their investigation and have urged anyone with information to come forward. -- 2025-04-13

Tourist Dive Boat Catches Fire off Khao Lak, 26 Rescued in Dramatic Sea Evacuation Picture courtesy of Daily News. Panic struck early morning of 12 April, when a liveaboard diving boat carrying 26 people caught fire near a popular dive site off the coast of Khao Lak in southern Thailand. All passengers and crew were safely rescued in a dramatic sea evacuation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357594-tourist-dive-boat-catches-fire-off-khao-lak-26-rescued-in-dramatic-sea-evacuation/

Chinese YouTuber Assaulted and Robbed by Fellow Nationals in Pattaya Picture courtesy of Siamchon A Chinese tourist and online content creator was assaulted and left injured in a deserted alleyway in Pattaya early morning on 12 April, following what police suspect to be a targeted robbery by two fellow Chinese nationals. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357582-chinese-youtuber-assaulted-and-robbed-by-fellow-nationals-in-pattaya/

Search Operation Rescues Two Lost Italian Tourists on Koh Phangan Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A major search operation was launched on Koh Phangan after two Italian tourists went missing in a forested area near Haad Khom on the island. The pair were safely located after more than three hours of coordinated efforts by local authorities. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357586-search-operation-rescues-two-lost-italian-tourists-on-koh-phangan/

DDPM Launches Five-Point Road Safety Strategy as Songkran Holiday Gets Underway Picture courtesy of DDPM. As the Songkran holiday period begins, authorities have stepped up efforts to reduce road traffic accidents nationwide with the implementation of a five-pronged safety strategy. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) held a press conference on 12 April, at the Road Safety Command Centre to outline key measures aimed at protecting lives during one of Thailand’s most dangerous travel periods. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357592-ddpm-launches-five-point-road-safety-strategy-as-songkran-holiday-gets-underway/

to continue: Thailand Live Sunday 13 April 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1357631-thailand-live-sunday-13-april-2025/

UPDATE Manhunt for Meth Trafficker Who Shot Police Officer in Loei Picture courtesy of Matichon. A massive manhunt is underway in Loei after a suspected drug dealer shot and killed a police officer during a raid in a remote rubber plantation. Over 300 police officers have been mobilised in the search for 33-year-old Boonkerd, who is believed to still be hiding within Thai territory. The incident occurred in Kok Du Subdistrict, Mueang District, Loei Province, when police attempted to apprehend Boonkerd at a hut deep in a rubber plantation in Ban Kor Phai Thon. During the operation, Boonkerd allegedly opened fire with a handgun of unknown make and calibre, fatally striking Police Sub-Lieutenant Pairach Promin in the chest. The officer, who was serving as Deputy Inspector of Mueang Loei Police Station, died at the scene. Pol. Lt. Gen. Chatrachai Surachetphong, Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 4, immediately dispatched investigative teams to the area to pursue the suspect. An arrest warrant has since been issued for Boonkerd, who remains at large. Deputy Commissioner and Police Region 4 spokesperson Pol. Maj. Gen. Pissanu Unnaseree urged the public to assist by reporting any information related to Boonkerd’s whereabouts through the emergency hotline, assuring that all tips will be kept confidential. Addressing speculation that a “shoot-to-kill” order had been issued, the spokesperson clarified that all operations are being conducted in accordance with legal protocols. He stated that police are acting within the law and will use force only if the suspect resists arrest or poses a threat. If Boonkerd surrenders, officers will carry out a lawful arrest and proceed with prosecution. The suspect’s family has reportedly pleaded with him to surrender, though no formal communication has been received indicating an intent to do so. Intelligence suggests he remains in hiding within Thailand and law enforcement continues to apply pressure in targeted areas to ensure his capture. Authorities are also taking steps to support the family of the slain officer. In recognition of his service, the National Police Commissioner and the Commander of Police Region 4 have approved a posthumous promotion of seven ranks. Additionally, a personal donation of 100,000 baht has been made to the officer’s family, and arrangements are being made for a royal-sponsored cremation to honour his sacrifice. The police continue their manhunt with unwavering commitment as they seek justice for their fallen colleague. -- 2025-04-13

UPDATE Retired Police Officer Commits Suicide at Temple After Fatal Shooting of Motorcycle Taxi Leader Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 63-year-old retired police officer took his own life beneath a Bodhi tree at a temple in Saraburi province, just days after fatally shooting the head of a motorcycle taxi rank in a broad daylight attack. Police were alerted to the incident by local residents. Investigators, including forensic officers and rescue personnel, arrived at the scene at a temple in Khok Yae Subdistrict, Nong Khae District, where they discovered the body of Pol. Lt. Col. Prachuap Maso, a former officer of the Metropolitan Police Bureau. He was found lying on his back, with a Sig Sauer P365 9mm , handgun by his side, along with a brown-and-black shoulder bag. A single spent bullet casing was recovered at the scene. Initial forensic examination indicated that Prachuap died from a gunshot wound to the head, with the bullet entering through his right temple and exiting the left. His body was sent to the Institute of Forensic Medicine in Ongkharak, Nakhon Nayok for a full post-mortem examination. According to witnesses, Prachuap had contacted family members shortly before the shooting. His wife had alerted his elder sister after receiving a phone call in which he said he had finalised all legal and personal affairs and intended to take his life. Despite rushing to the scene, his sister was unable to stop him. Another relative, Ms. Niam, reported that when she arrived, Prachuap asked why she had come, and before she could intervene, he pulled a handgun from his bag and shot himself in front of her. Family members revealed that Prachuap had recently been involved in a shooting incident, which occurred two to three days earlier. On the morning of 10 April, at approximately 08:30, he used a 9mm handgun to shoot Mr. Sommai Ruengsamut, 57, the head of a motorcycle taxi rank, twice at close range. The attack happened while Sommai was with a passenger in Soi Phetkasem 91, in Om Noi, Krathum Baen District, Samut Sakhon province. Sommai died at the scene, and Prachuap fled. Following the fatal shooting, Prachuap contacted relatives and arrangements were being made for him to surrender to the authorities. However, before this could happen, he took his own life at Wat Rat Samakkhi temple at around 11:00 on 12 April. Police have recorded the incident and are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding both the homicide and the suicide. Family members have stated that they do not suspect foul play in Prachuap’s death. His final police rank before retirement was Lieutenant Colonel, serving as Deputy Inspector at Bang Khun Thian Police Station. After retirement, he had been working as a motorcycle taxi driver at the Pruksa 67 taxi stand. -- 2025-04-13

DDPM Launches Five-Point Road Safety Strategy as Songkran Holiday Gets Underway Picture courtesy of DDPM. As the Songkran holiday period begins, authorities have stepped up efforts to reduce road traffic accidents nationwide with the implementation of a five-pronged safety strategy. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) held a press conference on 12 April, at the Road Safety Command Centre to outline key measures aimed at protecting lives during one of Thailand’s most dangerous travel periods. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357592-ddpm-launches-five-point-road-safety-strategy-as-songkran-holiday-gets-underway/

Picture courtesy of DDPM. As the Songkran holiday period begins, authorities have stepped up efforts to reduce road traffic accidents nationwide with the implementation of a five-pronged safety strategy. The Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM) held a press conference on 12 April, at the Road Safety Command Centre to outline key measures aimed at protecting lives during one of Thailand’s most dangerous travel periods. Mr. Opas Karnkawinpong, Permanent Secretary for Public Health and Chair of the Road Safety Command Centre for Songkran 2025, announced the campaign under the theme “Safe Driving, Thailand Without Accidents”. The safety initiative runs from 11–17 April 2025, focusing on integrated enforcement, community participation, and data-driven planning. The five primary measures being enforced are: 1. Prevention of road accidents 2. Reduction of accident risk factors 3. Multi-agency collaboration 4. Strict law enforcement 5. Raising public awareness on road safety Emphasis is placed on real-time data analysis to tailor strategies to specific regions, including targeted law enforcement on speeding and drink-driving, as well as tighter regulation of alcohol sales. Sales of alcohol outside legal hours or to individuals under 20 are strictly prohibited. Authorities are also deploying “community checkpoints” and “family watch groups” to monitor at-risk behaviours. Safe water play areas and public service points have been established to assist travellers and revellers throughout the holiday. Mr. Opas stressed that a significant number of accidents are caused by driver behaviour. “Most accidents stem from speeding, abrupt lane changes, and drink-driving,” he said, urging local agencies to raise public awareness and strictly monitor high-risk conduct. 11 April Road Safety Statistics On the first day of the campaign (11 April), Thailand recorded: • 211 road accidents • 201 injuries • 27 fatalities Key statistics included: • Leading cause: Speeding (40.76%), followed by abrupt lane changes (24.64%) and drink-driving (22.75%) • Vehicle type most involved: Motorcycles (83.64%) • Location: 86.26% of incidents occurred on straight roads • Time of day: Most accidents took place between 12:01–21:00 • Most affected age group: 60–69 years (20.18%) The provinces with the highest accident rates were: • Mukdahan: Highest number of accidents (11) and injuries (12) • Bangkok: Highest number of fatalities (5) A total of 1,737 checkpoints have been set up, manned by over 50,000 personnel nationwide. Deputy Director-General of DDPM, Mr. Saharat Wongsakulwiwat, added that safety of on-duty officers must also be prioritised. Checkpoints should be placed away from traffic lanes and clearly marked with cones and signage, particularly in wet or flood-prone areas. He also warned of approaching summer storms in northern provinces between 12–14 April, advising motorists to avoid hazardous routes and refrain from sheltering under large trees or unstable structures during adverse weather. With heavy travel and celebrations expected to continue throughout the Songkran holiday, authorities remain on high alert to ensure the safety of both citizens and tourists across the country. -- 2025-04-12

Search Operation Rescues Two Lost Italian Tourists on Koh Phangan Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A major search operation was launched on Koh Phangan after two Italian tourists went missing in a forested area near Haad Khom on the island. The pair were safely located after more than three hours of coordinated efforts by local authorities. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357586-search-operation-rescues-two-lost-italian-tourists-on-koh-phangan/

Tourist Dive Boat Catches Fire off Khao Lak, 26 Rescued in Dramatic Sea Evacuation Picture courtesy of Daily News. Panic struck early morning of 12 April, when a liveaboard diving boat carrying 26 people caught fire near a popular dive site off the coast of Khao Lak in southern Thailand. All passengers and crew were safely rescued in a dramatic sea evacuation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357594-tourist-dive-boat-catches-fire-off-khao-lak-26-rescued-in-dramatic-sea-evacuation/

Picture courtesy of Daily News. Panic struck early morning of 12 April, when a liveaboard diving boat carrying 26 people caught fire near a popular dive site off the coast of Khao Lak in southern Thailand. All passengers and crew were safely rescued in a dramatic sea evacuation. At approximately0 4:15, the Third Naval Area Command’s Maritime Coordination Centre received a distress call via the 1465 hotline reporting a fire on board a dive vessel at the Boonsung Wreck dive site, located 13 nautical miles from Thap Lamu Pier in Thai Mueang District, Phang Nga Province. The site lies west of Cape Coral Reef, a major tourist attraction in Khao Lak. The stricken vessel, identified as the MV Dirace Class B, had departed from Ban Thap Lamu Pier on a diving excursion to explore the rich marine biodiversity of the area, which includes coral reefs and numerous fish species such as groupers, yellow snappers, lionfish, and even rare sea creatures like white-eyed moray eels and nudibranchs. On board were 16 tourists and 10 crew members. As flames engulfed the vessel, all aboard evacuated into life rafts. Nearby boats responded promptly to the emergency and successfully brought everyone to safety ashore. Naval authorities deployed patrol boat Tor 271, along with mobile water-pumping units and support from the Royal Thai Navy ship HTMS Phuket, to combat the blaze. Firefighting operations continued into the morning. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. Authorities have praised the swift coordination between emergency services, naval units, and local vessels, which averted what could have been a major maritime tragedy. -- 2025-04-12

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A major search operation was launched on Koh Phangan after two Italian tourists went missing in a forested area near Haad Khom on the island. The pair were safely located after more than three hours of coordinated efforts by local authorities. The incident occurred during the night of 11 April, when Pol. Lt. Winij Boonchit, from Tourist Police Sub-Division 5, Division 2, Region 3, received an urgent alert from the Italian Embassy via the Tourist Police hotline 1155. The report stated that two female tourists had lost their way in the jungle in Moo 7, Koh Phangan Sub-district. In response, local officials led by Mr. Paisit Thongjoem, Acting District Chief of Koh Phangan, in cooperation with Pol. Col. Apichat Chansamret, Superintendent of Koh Phangan Police Station, and Mr. Akkaraphon Phunphon, Assistant District Chief for Security, established an emergency command centre to coordinate the search. Around 50 officers from various agencies, including the Tourist Police, National Park staff, Koh Phangan Rescue, and local police, joined the mission to locate the tourists, identified as Ms. Maria Florencia Abaca and Ms. Linda Raterro, both of Italian nationality. The women, who had managed to contact authorities and share their GPS coordinates, reported they were not injured but were unable to find their way back from the forest trail. The rescue operation was hampered by heavy rain, but the search teams were able to locate and assist the pair to safety. Tourist Police officers later escorted the women back to their accommodation, including retrieving their motorbike. Both tourists expressed their gratitude to the authorities for the swift and professional assistance. Mr. Paisit emphasised the district’s strong commitment to ensuring the safety of all visitors. He noted that Koh Phangan remains dedicated to building confidence in travel safety through collaborative efforts among all local agencies. -- 2025-04-12

Chinese YouTuber Assaulted and Robbed by Fellow Nationals in Pattaya Picture courtesy of Siamchon A Chinese tourist and online content creator was assaulted and left injured in a deserted alleyway in Pattaya early morning on 12 April, following what police suspect to be a targeted robbery by two fellow Chinese nationals. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357582-chinese-youtuber-assaulted-and-robbed-by-fellow-nationals-in-pattaya/

Picture courtesy of Siamchon A Chinese tourist and online content creator was assaulted and left injured in a deserted alleyway in Pattaya early morning on 12 April, following what police suspect to be a targeted robbery by two fellow Chinese nationals. At approximately 05:15, Pol. Sub-Lt. Suchart Dusadee of Pattaya City Police Station received a report of a foreign tourist who had been physically attacked and abandoned in Soi Thepprasit 6/1, Moo 10, Pattaya. Senior officers, including Pol. Col. Anek Srathongyu, were immediately informed, and patrol units were dispatched to the scene. The victim, identified as Mr. Li, a 37-year-old Chinese national, was found by a concerned passerby. He had sustained multiple injuries including a bleeding split lip, bruising to his right eye, and abrasions across his body. Despite his condition, Mr. Li was able to inform police that he had visited a local entertainment venue earlier in the night, where he met two fellow Chinese men. The pair allegedly convinced him to get into a car with them under unknown pretences. Mr. Li recounted that the men drove him to a secluded alleyway, where they suddenly turned on him, beating him severely despite his pleas. They then stole his mobile phone before fleeing the scene, leaving him injured and bleeding on the ground. The Good Samaritan, identified as Ms. Buayen, 50, told police she was riding her motorcycle through the alley when she spotted a bloodied man struggling to stand. Initially alarmed, she approached after the man called for help in broken English. Upon learning he had been assaulted, she promptly contacted the police. Police officers noted that Mr. Li was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. He was given first aid before being transferred to a nearby hospital for treatment. Officers have advised him to formally file a complaint at the Pattaya City Police Station. Investigators have begun collecting evidence and searching for leads to identify and apprehend the suspects. At present, the full circumstances of the incident remain unclear, but authorities have pledged to pursue legal action should the perpetrators be identified. -- 2025-04-12

Pattaya Comes Alive as Tourists Start Songkran Water Play Early in Soi 7-8 Pictures courtesy of Kaoded. The lively Songkran atmosphere of Soi 7-8 along Pattaya Beach Road kicked off early this year, as both international tourists and local bar operators embraced the spirit of Songkran ahead of the official “Wan Lai” celebrations. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357572-pattaya-comes-alive-as-tourists-start-songkran-water-play-early-in-soi-7-8/

Pictures courtesy of Kaoded. The lively Songkran atmosphere of Soi 7-8 along Pattaya Beach Road kicked off early this year, as both international tourists and local bar operators embraced the spirit of Songkran ahead of the official “Wan Lai” celebrations. On 11 April, the popular nightlife area saw increasing numbers of revellers enjoying the festive mood, with many bars placing large water tanks outside and inviting tourists to join in the traditional water-splashing festivities. The early celebration was fuelled by soaring temperatures, prompting both Thai and foreign visitors to cool down with playful water fights before the designated dates. Adding to the fun, local vendors arrived with sidecar motorbikes loaded with water guns and other water play accessories, selling them to tourists eager to join in. The impromptu celebrations have transformed the area into a vibrant, high-energy zone filled with music, laughter, and the joyful wet spirit of Songkran. Traditionally, Naklua holds its “Wan Lai” celebrations on 18 April, with Pattaya following on 19 April. However, the intense heat this year appears to have prompted an early start to the festivities. Pattaya City authorities have announced that on 19 April, Beach Road will be closed to traffic to allow visitors to enjoy the full experience of Songkran safely and conveniently. Attendance for the official “Wan Lai” is expected to exceed ten thousand people, as Pattaya continues to cement its reputation as one of Thailand’s premier Songkran destinations. -- 2025-04-12

Speedboat Fire Off Koh Kood: Tourist Family Jumps Overboard to Escape Picture courtesy of Khaosod. An incident unfolded off the coast of Koh Kood when a speedboat engine exploded and burst into flames, forcing a family of four to leap into the sea to save themselves. One crew member was injured and taken to hospital following the blaze. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357571-speedboat-fire-off-koh-kood-tourist-family-jumps-overboard-to-escape/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. An incident unfolded off the coast of Koh Kood when a speedboat engine exploded and burst into flames, forcing a family of four to leap into the sea to save themselves. One crew member was injured and taken to hospital following the blaze. The incident occurred aboard a passenger speedboat named A. Suppapiti, registration number 656400717, which had been chartered by a tourist family staying at the Koh Kood Cabana Hotel. The group, two parents and their two children, had hired the boat for a snorkelling trip to Koh Rad. The explosion happened during the return journey, when the boat’s engine suddenly blew up, igniting a fire at the stern. Crew members quickly instructed the tourists to jump into the sea, ensuring all four safely reached shore. Meanwhile, the crew attempted to extinguish the blaze but were unsuccessful and one suffered burns in the process. They were eventually forced to abandon the vessel and swim ashore. The burning vessel later sank. Fortunately, a nearby fishing boat came to the rescue, transporting the family and injured crew members to shore at Ban Khlong Mad. Local rescue foundation Sawang Boon Chuea responded swiftly, transferring the injured crew member to Koh Kood Hospital. District Chief of Koh Kood, Mr. Pairat Sroisaeng, confirmed that the incident was a freak accident and not the result of negligence, stating that the boat was in good mechanical condition prior to the trip. The boat’s captain, 18-year-old Mr. Suphawat, who holds a valid boating licence, and 19-year-old crewman Mr. Monwat, were both on board at the time. Mr. Suphawat recounted that just after leaving Koh Rad, the engine exploded without warning. Mr. Monwat, seated near the engine, suffered burns to his arms and face while trying to assist passengers to safety. District authorities have since issued warnings to all tourism operators, hotels, and resorts on the island to take extra precautions during the busy Songkran holiday season. Officials stressed the importance of regular engine checks, fire safety protocols, and prompt crew training to prevent similar incidents. An investigation into the cause of the explosion is ongoing. -- 2025-04-12

Two Chinese Nationals Arrested for Illegally Selling Nitrous Oxide in Bangkok Picture courtesy of Amarin. Police have arrested two Chinese nationals for the illegal possession and sale of nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas,” following a sting operation in the Huai Khwang district of Bangkok. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357570-two-chinese-nationals-arrested-for-illegally-selling-nitrous-oxide-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy of Amarin. Police have arrested two Chinese nationals for the illegal possession and sale of nitrous oxide, commonly known as “laughing gas,” following a sting operation in the Huai Khwang district of Bangkok. Pol Col Porntep Chalermkiat, Superintendent of Sutthisan Police Station, along with Pol Lt Col Nitithorn Yodchotwanich, Deputy Superintendent of Investigation, directed the arrest of Ms. Li Shuyu, 29, and Mr. Ye Yanming, 26, both Chinese citizens. The operation was led by Pol Lt Pichet Khankuen of the Sutthisan Investigation Division. The suspects were apprehended in the car park of a hotel located in Soi Udomsuk, Samsennok Subdistrict, after police received a tip-off from an informant. The informant reported that a Chinese man and woman, aged between 26 and 30, were planning to deliver nitrous oxide to customers at the location using a white Honda City sedan. Upon arrival, officers discovered the vehicle with two individuals inside and a large quantity of items loaded in the back. The suspects were detained and the car was searched in the presence of a hotel employee who acted as a translator. Police seized the following evidence from the vehicle: 1. 21 unlabelled boxes of nitrous oxide, each containing four canisters 2. Four additional loose canisters of nitrous oxide 3. Six balloons intended for gas use In total, authorities counted 88 canisters of nitrous oxide. Through an interpreter, both suspects admitted ownership of the vehicle and the gas canisters. They were unable to produce any documents proving the legal acquisition of the items. The presence of English-language branding on the canisters also indicated they were likely imported. The suspects were informed of their rights and officially charged with “selling, importing, or ordering the import of modern medicine into the Kingdom without a permit,” in violation of Thailand’s Drug Act B.E. 2510 (1967). Following their confession, the pair were taken into custody and the evidence was handed over to investigators at Sutthisan Police Station for further legal proceedings. -- 2025-04-12

Temple Clash: Monk Killed After Machete Attack Ends in Fatal Retaliation A long-standing feud between two Buddhist monks ended in bloodshed when a machete-wielding monk stormed a fellow monk’s kuti (monastic residence) in the early hours of the morning of 11 April, only to be fatally stabbed in self-defence. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357569-temple-clash-monk-killed-after-machete-attack-ends-in-fatal-retaliation/