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Drug Smugglers Killed in Firefight with Paramilitary Forces in Chiang Mai Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Two suspected drug traffickers were shot dead in a fierce gun battle with paramilitary rangers during a dawn operation near the Thai-Myanmar border in Chiang Mai province. Authorities seized five backpacks containing more than 500,000 methamphetamine pills in the incident. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361666-drug-smugglers-killed-in-firefight-with-paramilitary-forces-in-chiang-mai/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Two suspected drug traffickers were shot dead in a fierce gun battle with paramilitary rangers during a dawn operation near the Thai-Myanmar border in Chiang Mai province. Authorities seized five backpacks containing more than 500,000 methamphetamine pills in the incident. The clash took place early morning on 23 May, in a remote forested area of Doi Laem, Village 13, Mae Ai District. Acting on intelligence that drug smugglers were planning to cross into Thailand from Myanmar, Major General Kidakorn Jantra, commander of the Pha Muang Task Force, ordered enhanced border surveillance and round-the-clock patrols. A unit of the 3207 Paramilitary Ranger Company, led by Captain Prakasit Probyon, was dispatched to conduct a foot patrol in the highland terrain. During the patrol, they encountered a group of 5–7 armed men carrying modified backpacks. The rangers attempted to intercept and search the group, but the suspects opened fire, sparking a 10-minute gunfight. Once the shooting stopped, the paramilitary team secured the area and reported the incident. A subsequent inspection, led by Colonel Maitree Srisantia, Chief of Staff of the Pha Muang Force, and Colonel Jakkrapong Sotsi, commander of the 3rd Army Region’s Paramilitary Command, revealed two bodies and five abandoned backpacks filled with a total of 500,000 methamphetamine tablets. The remaining smugglers managed to flee back across the border. Authorities are continuing to search the area and tighten surveillance along the border in an effort to prevent further incursions. The seized drugs have been handed over to investigators at Mae Ai Police Station for legal proceedings. The operation underscores the ongoing challenges Thailand faces in curbing the flow of narcotics from neighbouring countries, particularly through porous mountainous border regions. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-25.

Panic on Bangkok Streets as 16,000 Litres of Petrol Spills After Tanker Crash Pictures from responders. A serious road traffic crash in the early hours of the morning of 24 May, has led to the spillage of over 16,000 litres of petrol on a major Bangkok thoroughfare, forcing a complete shutdown of the affected area and prompting an urgent emergency response to prevent a possible catastrophic fire or explosion. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361644-panic-on-bangkok-streets-as-16000-litres-of-petrol-spills-after-tanker-crash/

Police Helicopter Crash in Prachuap Khiri Khan Picture from responders. Emergency services have rushed to the scene of a helicopter crash that occurred early afternoon on 24 May, in Ban Nong Kok, located in Ao Noi subdistrict, Mueang district of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361652-helicopter-crash-in-prachuap-khiri-khan/

UPDATE Witnesses Report Seeing Smoke From Police Helicopter Before Crash Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Preliminary reports revealed that the helicopter, a Bell 212 model operated by the Royal Thai Police Aviation Division, crashed five minutes after its last communication with ATC (air traffic control). Eyewitnesses reported seeing smoke emanating from the aircraft, followed by parts falling from the helicopter before it spiralled out of control and crashed. According to witnesses in the area, the helicopter emitted thick smoke and appeared to lose control mid-air. Parts of the aircraft were seen detaching before the chopper plunged into the ground and caught fire. All three officers were reportedly thrown from the wreckage and pronounced dead at the scene. Pol. Maj. Gen. Nakarin Sukontawit, Commander of Prachuap Khiri Khan Provincial Police, said authorities are coordinating a full investigation. The crash site is being examined by police forensic teams, aided by rescue workers and related agencies. Pol. Maj. Gen. Amnat Detbunluang, Commander of the Police Aviation Division, explained that the helicopter was returning from a mission in the southern provinces and had scheduled refuelling stops in Chumphon and at Naresuan Camp in Phetchaburi. However, after resuming its journey and reaching Prachuap Khiri Khan, it lost contact just minutes after speaking with the control tower. All three officers were confirmed to be on official duty and will receive full posthumous honours. Pol. Maj. Gen. Nakarin stated that investigators will work closely with aviation experts and relevant authorities to analyse the wreckage and determine the precise cause of the crash. Witness statements and autopsy results are expected to play a key role in the ongoing inquiry. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-24.

to continue: Thailand Live Sunday 25 May 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1361665-thailand-live-sunday-25-may-2025/

UPDATE Helicopter Crash Claims Lives of Three Police Officers – One Recently Married Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Following the fatal crash of a Royal Thai Police helicopter, which claimed the lives of all three crew members onboard. Among the deceased was Flight Lieutenant Pratuang Chuleurt, known affectionately as “Captain Job,” who had only recently married in February. Deputy Governor of Prachuap Khiri Khan, Mr. Kittiphong Sukphakun and local officials, including Mr. Suwit Yueryai, President of the Koh Lak Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, arrived at the crash site during the afternoon. The area has been cordoned off pending further investigation. The bodies of the three officers were recovered from the wreckage and transported by road to Hua Hin Hospital under police escort for forensic examination. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-24.

No chance the driver knows. As you see see from the placard, it a mix of both ADR (European Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road) and Hazchem systems. UN number is the same, but emergency action code numbers under the two systems mean different things. For UN 3082 Carbon Black Feedstock Oil; ADR is 90 - Only tells me it is an environmentally hazardous substance; miscellaneous dangerous substance. Hazchem is 3Z - tells me for fire or spill to use foam or dry powder, wear SCBA and full fire kit. Any spill should be contained. At least BKK fire and rescue are trained in this and the ERG (emergency response guide) is available in Thai language and a thai language phone app.

UPDATE Specs and Legacy of the Bell 212 Helicopter: Over 52 Years in Thai Police Service Picture of the helicopter involved courtesy of Amarin. In the wake of the helicopter crash that claimed the lives of three police officers in Prachuap Khiri Khan, attention has turned to the Bell 212 helicopter, an aircraft that has served the Royal Thai Police Aviation Division for over half a century. The crash, which occurred in the Ao Noi subdistrict of Mueang district, involved a Bell 212 with tail number 2215. On board were Pol. Lt. Col. Prathueang Chulert (pilot), Pol. Sub. Lt. Songphon Boonchai (co-pilot), and Pol. Sgt. Maj. Thinkrit Suwannanoi (flight engineer), all of whom were pronounced dead at the scene. The three officers who died. This sombre event has prompted a reflection on the long-standing role of the Bell 212 within Thailand’s police aviation fleet. First introduced in 1973, the Royal Thai Police acquired 16 units of the Bell 212, registered sequentially from 2209 to 2224. The aircraft type is officially designated as “Aircraft Type 22” by the Royal Thai Police. Powered by twin PT6T-3B engines, the Bell 212 features a dual-blade main rotor and boasts a combined transmission output of 1,800 horsepower. The aircraft is capable of carrying up to 13 passengers, with a maximum takeoff weight of 11,200 pounds. Its twin-engine design significantly enhances operational safety, if one engine fails, the other is capable of sustaining flight to ensure a safe landing, a factor that has made the Bell 212 a trusted workhorse in both military and civilian operations globally. The helicopter’s primary missions are transport and search-and-rescue (SAR) operations, with a notable history of service in national emergencies. The Bell 212 played critical roles during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami relief efforts and in the widespread flooding that affected Thailand in 2011. Its capacity to reach remote or inaccessible areas quickly makes it an essential asset during natural disasters. Currently, Bell 212 helicopters remain in service with various regional police aviation units. They support a wide array of duties including aerial surveillance, medical evacuations and logistical transport. The aircraft are also a vital component in the operations of the Border Patrol Police Bureau, aiding in tactical deployments and humanitarian support. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-24.

UPDATE Three Police Officers Killed in Helicopter Crash in Prachuap Khiri Khan Picture from responders. Royal Thai Police confirm a Bell 212 helicopter belonging to the Royal Thai Police crashed near Wat Nong Phang Phuai in Prachuap Khiri Khan province. The incident occurred around 13:10 and resulted in the immediate deaths of all three officers on board. The Royal Thai Police officially confirmed the crash via their Facebook page this afternoon, stating: “Urgent! Helicopter Bell 212 #2215 from the Kanchanaburi Police Aviation Unit has crashed in Prachuap Khiri Khan. Initial reports confirm that two pilots and one mechanic have died. Further updates to follow.” The deceased have been named as: Police Lieutenant Colonel Prathueang Chulet, Pilot Police Sub-Lieutenant Songphon Boonchai, Co-Pilot Police Sub-Lieutenant Thinkrit Suwannanoi, Flight Mechanic Earlier reports of a person parachuting out before the crash have been dismissed. Initial reports indicate that the helicopter was part of a flight departing from Apakorn Kiatwong Camp in Chumphon province, heading towards Naresuan Camp in Prachuap Khiri Khan. Two helicopters were reportedly flying together, one from the Hua Hin Police Aviation Unit and one from the Kanchanaburi Police Aviation Unit. It remains unconfirmed which aircraft was involved in the crash. Emergency responders arrived at the crash site promptly but found no survivors. The cause of the crash is under investigation by aviation safety authorities and police officials. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-24. .

UPDATE Police Helicopter Crashes in Prachuap Khiri Khan – Three Confirmed Dead Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A police helicopter has crashed during a training mission near Prachuap Junction in the area of Wing 5, located in Mueang District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. The incident occurred at approximately 13:00. Initial reports confirm that three individuals have lost their lives. One other person reportedly managed to parachute to safety, but this has not yet been confirmed by authorities . Emergency response teams, including local municipal fire engines, are still on the scene attempting to extinguish the fire from the wreckage. The helicopter involved in the crash has been identified as a BELL 212, and was on a scheduled training flight at the time of the incident. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-24.

Helicopter Crash in Prachuap Khiri Khan Picture from responders. Emergency services have rushed to the scene of a helicopter crash that occurred early afternoon on 24 May, in Ban Nong Kok, located in Ao Noi subdistrict, Mueang district of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361652-helicopter-crash-in-prachuap-khiri-khan/

Picture from responders. Emergency services have rushed to the scene of a helicopter crash that occurred early afternoon on 24 May, in Ban Nong Kok, located in Ao Noi subdistrict, Mueang district of Prachuap Khiri Khan Province. Initial reports indicate that a helicopter went down under unknown circumstances, prompting an immediate response from local authorities, rescue teams and military personnel. The exact details of the crash are unconfirmed, but responders report that it is possibly a police helicopter and a least 3 bodies have been recovered from the wreckage. Witnesses in the area described hearing a loud noise followed by smoke rising from a remote location near Ban Nong Kok village, prompting villagers to alert emergency services. Provincial officials and police are currently on site, working to secure the crash area. Adapted by Asean Now 2025-05-24.

UPDATE Worker’s Body Still Not Found After Fall Into Orange Line Construction Shaft Picture from responders, The body of a 33-year-old construction worker who fell into a deep shaft at a Bangkok mass transit site has still not been located authorities confirmed on 24 May. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361072-construction-worker-trapped-after-falling-into-deep-pit-at-bangkok-subway-site/#findComment-19821938

UPDATE Worker’s Body Still Not Found After Fall Into Orange Line Construction Shaft Picture from responders, The body of a 33-year-old construction worker who fell into a deep shaft at a Bangkok mass transit site has still not been located authorities confirmed on 24 May. Mr Sarawut “Dao” Chantasorn, from Sisaket Province, had been missing since the afternoon of 19 May when a soil collapse caused him to fall into a 19-metre-deep bored pile shaft at the construction site of the Orange Line electric train project near Soi Lan Luang 8, Pom Prap Sattru Phai district. After days of intensive search and rescue efforts by the Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team from the Bangkok Disaster Prevention and Mitigation Department, along with Ruamkatanyu Foundation volunteers, have so far only found a single glove, with human skin and flesh attached inside. Rescue teams have encountered significant risks while operating in the confined space of the rescue shaft. On the afternoon of 23 May, while workers were operating near the suspected location of the body, a critical safety incident occurred when one of the steel sheet piles, installed to prevent further soil collapse, shifted under high surrounding pressure. This prompted an immediate evacuation and suspension of search efforts to allow engineers to resecure and reinforce the sheet piles. With heavy rain at times, pumps are employed to remove the water from the shaft, allowing recovery teams to search for the body safely, as responders work around the clock to return the body to his family. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-24.

Panic on Bangkok Streets as 16,000 Litres of Petrol Spills After Tanker Crash Pictures from responders. A serious road traffic crash in the early hours of the morning of 24 May, has led to the spillage of over 16,000 litres of petrol on a major Bangkok thoroughfare, forcing a complete shutdown of the affected area and prompting an urgent emergency response to prevent a possible catastrophic fire or explosion. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361644-panic-on-bangkok-streets-as-16000-litres-of-petrol-spills-after-tanker-crash/

Pictures from responders. A serious road traffic crash in the early hours of the morning of 24 May, has led to the spillage of over 16,000 litres of petrol on a major Bangkok thoroughfare, forcing a complete shutdown of the affected area and prompting an urgent emergency response to prevent a possible catastrophic fire or explosion. The incident occurred at approximately 00.20, at the Ratchaphruek intersection, near the junction of Rat Phatthana and Suksawat Roads in the Bang Pakok sub-district of Rat Burana district. A 22-wheeled lorry, reportedly transporting fruit juice from Ratchaburi to Khlong Toei Port, collided with a 10-wheeled fuel tanker carrying a full load of petrol. Eyewitness accounts and initial driver testimony suggest that the fuel tanker abruptly turned onto Rat Phatthana Road from Suksawat Soi 27, leaving the lorry driver unable to stop in time, resulting in a high-impact collision that overturned the tanker. The crash caused the tanker to flip onto its side and rupture, releasing 16,000 litres of highly inflammable petrol onto the street. Emergency services from the Rat Burana Police Station, Bangkok Fire Department, and volunteers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation were dispatched immediately. Firefighters worked through the night, spraying foam and water across the spill area to suppress petrol vapours and reduce the risk of ignition. Sandbags were deployed strategically to prevent the fuel from spreading further and contaminating surrounding areas or storm drains. The area was completely cordoned off as a precaution and traffic suspended on Rat Phatthana Road while emergency crews continued containment and cleanup efforts. A large crane was brought in later, to assist with the removal of the overturned tanker. The driver of the fuel tanker was injured and is being treated in hospital; police have stated that they will question him further as part of the ongoing investigation. CCTV footage from the intersection is being reviewed to determine the precise cause of the accident and establish liability. Authorities have praised the swift response of emergency services, which likely averted a potential major disaster. Given the volatility of petrol and the sheer volume spilled, there was a significant risk to the surrounding area. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by transporting hazardous materials through densely populated urban areas and it is likely to reignite discussions about route restrictions and stricter safety regulations for fuel transport vehicles in Bangkok. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-24.

Very different hazards, but still a good reminder of the dangers. Carbon Black Feedstock Oil, has a relatively high flash point, hence it is a class 9 hazardous material, seen from the hazmat placard in the picture. LPG (liquified petroleum gas) in the video is class 2 and the destruction was caused by a massive leak of LPG, which quickly ignited, resulting in a catastrophic BLEVE (Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapour Explosion).

Woman Attempts to Buy “Ice” From Police During Pattaya Drugs Raid Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a bizarre twist during a routine anti-drug operation in Jomtien, Pattaya, a woman unwittingly approached a police officer to buy crystal methamphetamine , commonly known as “ice”, without realising he was part of the drug suppression unit. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361622-woman-attempts-to-buy-“ice”-from-police-during-pattaya-drugs-raid/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a bizarre twist during a routine anti-drug operation in Jomtien, Pattaya, a woman unwittingly approached a police officer to buy crystal methamphetamine , commonly known as “ice”, without realising he was part of the drug suppression unit. Pol Lt Prasit Boonprasit, head of the narcotics suppression team at Pattaya City Police Station, was leading a sweep of known drug hotspots in Sois 2, 3 and 4 of the Jomtien area. The operation, aligned with a national directive to reclaim drug-affected communities, had already netted several suspected dealers and users. While officers were surveying the area, a woman, believed to be between 40 and 45 years old, casually approached and attempted to purchase methamphetamine from the plainclothes officer. Mistaking him for a dealer, she requested “ice”. In a moment of quick thinking, the officer jokingly held out a piece of regular ice, only for the woman to respond adamantly: “Not that kind, the one that comes in flakes and you can smoke.” She further urged him to speak quietly, making a “shhh” gesture, and insisted it was fine to sell as it was just “a good stimulant,” according to witnesses. The woman remained unaware of the officer’s identity even as backup arrived. She persisted with her request until the team revealed their true roles and took her into custody. A drug screening was immediately carried out. Further arrests were made in connection with drug distribution networks in the area. Authorities confiscated narcotics and related paraphernalia and have initiated extended investigations to dismantle the local supply chain. All suspects, including the woman, are now in the custody of Pattaya City Police and will face charges under anti-narcotics laws. The unusual encounter has drawn attention online, with social media users expressing a mix of disbelief and frustration over the situation. The police, meanwhile, reiterated their commitment to drug eradication in vulnerable communities across the country. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-24.

UPDATE Songkhla Council Member “Sor Golf” Faces New Charges Amid Silence on Removal Proceedings Picture courtesy of Matichon. Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organisation Council Member Siradon Phlaiduang, better known as “Sor Golf”, is facing additional criminal charges in a deepening scandal that has put local authorities under scrutiny for their inaction. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360410-son-of-prominent-mp-sparks-violence-at-songkhla-polling-station/#findComment-19821080

UPDATE Songkhla Council Member “Sor Golf” Faces New Charges Amid Silence on Removal Proceedings Picture courtesy of Matichon. Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organisation Council Member Siradon Phlaiduang, better known as “Sor Golf”, is facing additional criminal charges in a deepening scandal that has put local authorities under scrutiny for their inaction. The Election Commission (EC) is now preparing to file a new complaint, while the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is monitoring the conduct of the Songkhla Provincial Council, which has yet to convene a meeting to consider his removal. The controversy stems from a violent incident on 11 May, in which Mr Siradon allegedly ordered six subordinates to assault Pol Sgt Nisatit Kongthep, a border patrol officer assigned to polling station security in Songkhla’s Muang District. All seven individuals now face charges including assaulting a public official while performing duties, using weapons, and forming a criminal gang. The case has been transferred to the Crime Suppression Division for further investigation. Further complicating the situation, Mr Siradon has been linked to the WINGAME98 online gambling network, which is under investigation by the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB). Authorities estimate that the illegal operation generated over 200 million baht. Arrest warrants have been issued for 18 individuals, with four apprehended to date. Investigators are actively pursuing financial trails and additional suspects connected to the network, which has been in operation since 2022. Despite the serious nature of the allegations, the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Council has remained silent. No members have yet signed a petition to convene a special session to discuss Mr Siradon’s removal, which would require signatures from at least one-third of the 36-member council (12 members). This is in spite of prior communication from the NACC urging the council to uphold its responsibilities under the 1997 Provincial Administrative Organisation Act. Lt Col Somnuek Kulmanee, director of the Songkhla EC office, confirmed that the central EC has authorised him to file a new complaint for obstruction of election duties, an offence in which the EC considers itself a co-victim. The filing must be made with the Crime Suppression Division, which is now handling the main investigation. Mr Siradon, who received the highest vote count in the most recent PAO elections, is also under investigation for alleged vote-buying through hosting campaign-related banquets. The Songkhla EC has completed its preliminary inquiry into the matter and is preparing to submit its findings to the central EC. NACC provincial director Ram Wasuthanaphinyoyo stressed that no individual is above the law and urged the Songkhla PAO council to act in accordance with its legal duties. While the NACC cannot directly order a dismissal, it is closely monitoring the situation. Mr Ram noted the public interest in the case and emphasised the need for swift action to preserve the integrity of the local administration. Although the law does not mandate a strict timeline for the removal process, pressure is mounting for the council to act. The provincial governor, in his supervisory role, has reportedly already issued directives. Ultimately, it falls to the council to decide whether Mr Siradon should remain in office or be removed, but the council must follow legal procedures and respond to the expectations of the public. “This case goes beyond legality, it concerns public ethics and the reputation of the Songkhla PAO,” said Mr Ram. “Whatever the outcome, the council must provide answers to the public.” Related Article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361505-cyber-police-raid-home-of-local-councillor-‘sor-golf’-in-major-online-gambling-crackdown/ Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-24.

Krabi Police Chief & District Officer Transferred Following Palm Plantation Gambling Raid Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a decisive move to uphold law enforcement integrity, Lieutenant General Surapong Thanomjit, Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 8, has ordered on 23 May, the transfer of Krabi Provincial Police Chief, Police Major General Chaiyakiat Wiriyasathitkul, and Plai Phraya Police Station Superintendent, Police Colonel Narong Lakwimon. The action follows a significant raid on an illegal gambling operation concealed within a palm oil plantation in Plai Phraya district. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361621-krabi-police-chief-district-officer-transferred-following-palm-plantation-gambling-raid/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. In a decisive move to uphold law enforcement integrity, Lieutenant General Surapong Thanomjit, Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 8, has ordered on 23 May, the transfer of Krabi Provincial Police Chief, Police Major General Chaiyakiat Wiriyasathitkul, and Plai Phraya Police Station Superintendent, Police Colonel Narong Lakwimon. The action follows a significant raid on an illegal gambling operation concealed within a palm oil plantation in Plai Phraya district. On 21 May, a coordinated operation led by the Department of Provincial Administration (DOPA) and local defence volunteers dismantled a clandestine gambling den in Khao To subdistrict. The raid resulted in the arrest of 71 individuals and the seizure of various gambling paraphernalia. Preliminary investigations suggest the establishment had a monthly cash flow exceeding 12 million baht. Notably, the operation was reportedly linked to individuals claiming affiliations with national-level political figures, facilitating its operations and clientele recruitment. In response to the incident, DOPA Director-General Chaiwat Chuntirapong signed an order transferring Plai Phraya District Chief, Ms. Nanthicha Koetkaew, to an administrative role at the College of Local Administration, effective immediately. The swift administrative reshuffling underscores the Thai government’s commitment to combating illegal gambling activities and ensuring accountability among public officials. Further investigations are underway to identify and prosecute all individuals involved in the illicit operation. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-24.

Schoolboy Fatally Stabbed in Canteen After Grudge Dating Back to Primary School Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 12-year-old schoolboy has died after being stabbed multiple times by a classmate during a lunchtime altercation at a secondary school in Phibun Mangsahan district, Ubon Ratchathani. The shocking incident took place on 22 May and is believed to have stemmed from a long-standing grudge dating back to the boys’ primary school days. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361620-schoolboy-fatally-stabbed-in-canteen-after-grudge-dating-back-to-primary-school/