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Local Chief Defends ‘Aeroplane-Shaped’ Streetlights Amid Social Media Backlash Picture courtesy of Matichon. The mayor of Nong Prue Subdistrict in Samut Prakan province has defended the installation of solar-powered streetlights designed in the shape of aeroplanes, despite recent, renewed criticism from social media users who argue that the project is a waste of funds. The mayor insisted on 7 March, that the local community is satisfied with the initiative and that the concerns voiced online are irrelevant. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354018-local-chief-defends-‘aeroplane-shaped’-streetlights-amid-social-media-backlash/

New Look for Nan Nakhon Airport with Proposed 3.8 Billion Baht Upgrade Pictures courtesy of Daily News. Nan Nakhon Airport is set for a major overhaul with a 3.8 billion baht project aimed at expanding its runway, taxiways, and passenger terminal. The expansion will increase the runway’s length to 2,300 metres, accommodating larger aircraft and boosting the airport’s capacity to handle more international flights. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354017-new-look-for-nan-nakhon-airport-with-proposed-38-billion-baht-upgrade/

Police Crack Down on Drug Gang Accused of Assaulting a Minor In a planned operation, Phayao City Police have successfully apprehended a group of young men involved in drug abuse and the alleged sexual assault of a minor under the age of 15. The arrest took place on 8th March, following a tip-off about illegal activities at a residence in Moo 12, Tha Wang Thong Subdistrict, Phayao City. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354015-police-crack-down-on-drug-gang-accused-of-assaulting-a-minor /

Motorcycle Collision in Heavy Rain Leaves One Dead, One Seriously Injured A crash occurred on March 7, when two motorcycles collided head-on in the heavy rain, resulting in one fatality and another person seriously injured. The incident took place around 21:20 on the Ban Pho-Bang Hak Road, approximately 200 meters from the Ban Pho Police Station in Chachoengsao Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354014-motorcycle-collision-in-heavy-rain-leaves-one-dead-one-seriously-injured/

Pictures courtesy of Daily News. Nan Nakhon Airport is set for a major overhaul with a 3.8 billion baht project aimed at expanding its runway, taxiways, and passenger terminal. The expansion will increase the runway’s length to 2,300 metres, accommodating larger aircraft and boosting the airport’s capacity to handle more international flights. Mr. Danai Rueangson, Director-General of the Department of Airports (DOA), announced that the designs for the runway extension, taxiways, and terminal improvements have been completed. The plans are now under review by relevant authorities, including the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) and the Royal Thai Air Force. Additionally, an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report has been submitted and is being revised in line with feedback from the Expert Advisory Committee. Currently, Nan Nakhon Airport’s runway spans 2,000 metres, which is sufficient to accommodate aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing B737-800 for domestic flights. However, the expansion will allow the airport to accommodate larger aircraft, such as the Airbus A321 and Boeing B737-900, and handle international flights, particularly from ASEAN countries and East Asia. This expansion is expected to support the growing number of passengers and enhance the region’s connectivity, thereby promoting tourism in Nan. In addition to the runway extension, the airport’s passenger terminal will undergo significant upgrades. The terminal’s capacity will increase from 300 passengers per hour to 1,400 passengers per hour. The expansion also includes the construction of a new parking facility, which will provide space for 600 cars. The architectural design will incorporate traditional Lanna culture, blending it with modern materials. The overall cost of the project is estimated at 3.89 billion baht, and it will require the acquisition of 134 rai of land to the north of the airport, extending towards the Nan River, to facilitate the runway expansion. Land acquisition is expected to take place between 2027 and 2029, with construction set to begin in 2030 and completed by 2032. Currently, Nan Nakhon Airport is served by two airlines: Thai AirAsia, which operates three daily flights, and Nok Air, which operates one daily flight. In 2024, the airport handled approximately 407,145 passengers, or about 1,100 passengers per day. This number is expected to rise, with estimates for early 2025 suggesting around 72,525 passengers in the first two months. However, passenger traffic has not yet returned to pre-COVID-19 levels, with 2019 seeing passenger numbers between 620,500 and 730,000, and daily flights peaking at 12. The ambitious expansion project is expected to provide a significant boost to Nan’s infrastructure and tourism sector, paving the way for the region’s continued development as a travel destination. -- 2025-03-09

Picture from arrrest. In a planned operation, Phayao City Police have successfully apprehended a group of young men involved in drug abuse and the alleged sexual assault of a minor under the age of 15. The arrest took place on 8th March, following a tip-off about illegal activities at a residence in Moo 12, Tha Wang Thong Subdistrict, Phayao City. Leading the operation, Pol. Col. Chalermchai Yawichai, Superintendent of Phayao City Police Station, coordinated with Deputy Superintendent Pol. Lt. Col. Rachapol Kanreo and investigative officers to execute a sting operation. Using a decoy to arrange a drug purchase, the officers swiftly moved in to arrest the suspects. Among those detained was 33-year-old Thanathap, a resident of Moo 1, Ban Sang Subdistrict, Phayao City. Thanathap was identified as a wanted individual under arrest warrant No. 43/2025, issued by the Phayao Provincial Court on 26th February 2025. The warrant accuses him of committing sexual assault against a minor under 15 years of age, regardless of consent. During interrogation, Thanathap admitted to both the charges and his involvement in drug abuse. He and his accomplices were taken into custody, with formal charges being processed by investigators at Phayao City Police Station. This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts of local authorities to combat drug-related crimes and protect vulnerable members of the community. Further legal proceedings are expected to follow as the investigation continues. -- 2025-03-09

3-Month-Old Baby Tests Positive for Drugs After Mother’s Substance Abuse Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A disturbing case has emerged from Nakhon Ror, Buriram Province, where a 3-month-old baby tested positive for drugs after ingesting breast milk from a mother who was using narcotics and vaping. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354013-3-month-old-baby-tests-positive-for-drugs-after-mother’s-substance-abuse/

Body of Woman Found off Pattaya Beach Authorities in Pattaya, Chonburi, have confirmed the discovery of the body of a 40-year-old woman who went missing after swimming in the sea near Walking Street on the southern end of Pattaya Beach. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354012-body-of-woman-found-off-pattaya-beach/

Mystery Body Found Floating in Ratchaburi River Authorities in Ratchaburi have launched an investigation after a man’s body was discovered floating in a river near the famous Wat Chong Lom temple. The unidentified male, believed to be aged between 30 and 40, was found on the morning of 8 March, at approximately 07:50. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354011-mystery-body-found-floating-in-ratchaburi-river/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A disturbing case has emerged from Nakhon Ror, Buriram Province, where a 3-month-old baby tested positive for drugs after ingesting breast milk from a mother who was using narcotics and vaping. On March 8, local authorities and social workers, alongside village leaders, responded to reports that a young couple in Nakhon Ror had been using methamphetamine, cannabis, and e-cigarettes inside their home, despite the wife recently giving birth. Concerned about the impact on the infant’s health and development, authorities conducted an investigation. Urine tests confirmed the presence of drugs in both parents, who admitted to using methamphetamine, cannabis, and e-cigarettes. The home contained drug paraphernalia and a small amount of cannabis. The couple and their 3-month-old child were then taken to Nakhon Ror Hospital for further examination, where it was confirmed that the baby had traces of drugs in their system, likely due to breastfeeding from the mother. The local social development office, in collaboration with district authorities, immediately stepped in to provide assistance. They have forbidden the mother from breastfeeding the child until she has completely stopped using drugs and e-cigarettes. The authorities are also working on getting both parents into rehabilitation programs to address their substance abuse issues. Mr. Jakkrit Ruamkul, a district official, emphasized that the immediate priority was the health and safety of the baby, who should never have to face the consequences of parental substance abuse. The family will be provided with support, including formula for the infant, and social workers will monitor the situation closely. In addition, the father will be enrolled in a rehabilitation program, and efforts will be made to help him find employment to provide for his family. This case highlights the alarming risks of substance abuse in households with young children and the critical need for intervention to protect vulnerable individuals from harm. The authorities have pledged to continue monitoring the situation and ensure the well-being of the baby moving forward. -- 2025-03-09

Picture from responders. A crash occurred on March 7, when two motorcycles collided head-on in the heavy rain, resulting in one fatality and another person seriously injured. The incident took place around 21:20 on the Ban Pho-Bang Hak Road, approximately 200 meters from the Ban Pho Police Station in Chachoengsao Province. According to reports, a man, believed to be aged between 30 and 40, was riding a red and black Honda Wave motorcycle when he lost control in the heavy rain and veered into the opposite lane. His motorcycle collided head-on with a black Honda CB150 driven by a 21-year-old Myanmar national, named Mr. Kong San, who died at the scene. Emergency services, including Ban Pho Hospital and local rescue teams, arrived quickly. The injured man, whose identity remains unknown, was unconscious but still alive. He received immediate first aid before being rushed to Ban Pho Hospital in critical condition. The body of Mr. Kong San was also taken to the hospital for a preliminary autopsy. Authorities suspect that the rider, may have been rushing because of the rain, when he lost control of his motorcycle, crossing into the oncoming lane and crashing into the other bike. Despite the heavy rain, which likely contributed to the crash, the cause of the collision is still under investigation. Local authorities have called for heightened caution on the roads during adverse weather conditions to prevent further accidents. -- 2025-03-09

Two Arrested for Possession of Protected Wildlife Remains in Sa Kaeo Authorities in Sa Kaeo have arrested two individuals and seized the remains of protected wildlife, including Asiatic black bear parts, in the border area. The operation was carried out by the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Division (NRECD) in collaboration with Border Patrol Police and forestry officials. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354010-two-arrested-for-possession-of-protected-wildlife-remains-in-sa-kaeo/

Motorcyclists Injured After Falling Cable Causes Crash in Samut Prakan A man and a woman were injured in Samut Prakan after their motorcycle was struck by a fallen communication cable, causing them to crash. The incident occurred on the Old Sukhumvit Road in Bang Pu Subdistrict, Mueang District, on morning of 7 March. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354009-motorcyclists-injured-after-falling-cable-causes-crash-in-samut-prakan/

Fire Breaks Out at Cannabis Warehouse in Bang Phli A fire broke out in the early hours of March 8 at a cannabis cultivation warehouse in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan. Firefighters battled the blaze for several hours due to the building’s sealed environment and the presence of chemicals used in cannabis production. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354008-fire-breaks-out-at-cannabis-warehouse-in-bang-phli/

Industry Minister Orders Closure of Four Recycling Factories in Samut Sakhon Over Pollution Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Minister of Industry, Ekanat Promphan, has ordered the immediate suspension of four recycling factories in Samut Sakhon’s Maha Chai district following serious environmental violations. The decision comes after complaints from local residents in Na Khok subdistrict, who reported severe pollution affecting their livelihoods, particularly salt farming, which has been impacted by contamination turning their salt black. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354007-industry-minister-orders-closure-of-four-recycling-factories-in-samut-sakhon-over-pollution/

Picture from responders. Authorities in Pattaya, Chonburi, have confirmed the discovery of the body of a 40-year-old woman who went missing after swimming in the sea near Walking Street on the southern end of Pattaya Beach. At approximately 10:05 on March 8, Lieutenant Colonel Chanun Kesornbua, Deputy Investigator at Pattaya City Police Station, was alerted to a missing person report. The woman, later identified as Natthakan Sukrint, a bar employee from Nakhon Ratchasima, was last seen running into the water to swim but quickly disappeared. A search operation was immediately initiated, with Pattaya’s water rescue team and volunteers from the Sawang Boriboon Foundation rushing to the scene. After approximately 30 minutes of searching, the woman’s body was found submerged in the sea. Her body was retrieved from the water and brought ashore. Upon examination, no signs of physical injury or foul play were found. Investigations revealed that Natthakan had been with friends at a bar on Walking Street before finishing work. Her friends had taken her to the beach, where she had requested to swim in the sea. Despite warnings about the depth of the water, plus that she was intoxicated, she entered and was later reported missing. Her friends alerted the authorities when they could not locate her, prompting the rescue operation. Pattaya police have ruled out foul play and have transferred the body to the Police Hospital’s Forensic Institute for a full autopsy to determine the exact cause of death. Authorities are continuing to investigate the incident and are awaiting the results of the autopsy. -- 2025-03-09

Picture from responders. Authorities in Ratchaburi have launched an investigation after a man’s body was discovered floating in a river near the famous Wat Chong Lom temple. The unidentified male, believed to be aged between 30 and 40, was found on the morning of 8 March, at approximately 07:50. Local police were alerted to the discovery and immediately responded to the scene along with forensic officers, medical staff, and volunteers from the Prachanukul Ratchaburi Foundation. Upon arrival, they found the victim’s body face down, bloated from decomposition. The body was floating near the temple’s stairs. According to the preliminary investigation, the victim was not wearing any clothes and showed no signs of physical trauma or injuries. However, the body was severely bloated, emitting a strong smell. The eyes were notably swollen, and the abdominal and left leg tissue appeared to have been consumed by aquatic creatures. Authorities discovered a Honda Wave motorbike, with the ignition key still in place, parked on land nearby. The motorcycle, bearing Ratchaburi registration plates, was left unattended for several days, and no one came forward to claim it. Nearby, other personal items were found, including a black helmet, a polo shirt, a phone charger, a book, and a plastic box containing over ten fireworks rounds. A monk at Wat Chong Lom revealed that the motorcycle had been parked for at least four days, but they were unaware of its owner. One local resident, who found the body, reported seeing the man frequently visit the area, sometimes riding a tricycle, often appearing disoriented, and occasionally getting into the water. However, they could not confirm if the body belonged to the same individual. Investigators have since sent the body to the Ratchaburi Forensic Institute for a thorough autopsy. They are also conducting DNA tests to identify the deceased and check if any reports of missing persons have been filed in nearby police stations. Additionally, they are investigating the link between the victim and the found motorcycle to understand the circumstances leading to his death. Authorities are continuing their investigation. -- 2025-03-09

Chinese Admins and Programmers Arrested for Running Illegal Gambling Website Picture courtesy of Matichon. Authorities have arrested four Chinese nationals suspected of managing and developing an illegal online gambling website. The suspects, who allegedly earned over 1.6 million baht per month, were detained in a home in the Lat Phrao area of Bangkok. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354006-chinese-admins-and-programmers-arrested-for-running-illegal-gambling-website/

Man Found Dead in Car in Lamphun, Police Investigating Cause of Death Lamphun police are investigating the death of a man whose body was discovered on the morning of 8 March, inside a car in Li district. Officers believe he had been deceased for at least five hours before being found. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354005-man-found-dead-in-car-in-lamphun-police-investigating-cause-of-death/

Petrol Station Worker Dies in Motorcycle Crash with Parked Oil Tanker A 26-year-old petrol station worker was tragically killed when his motorcycle crashed into the back of a parked oil tanker in Samut Songkhram. The accident occurred just 100 metres from his workplace as he was rushing to start his shift. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354003-petrol-station-worker-dies-in-motorcycle-crash-with-parked-oil-tanker/

Picture courtesy of NRECD. Authorities in Sa Kaeo have arrested two individuals and seized the remains of protected wildlife, including Asiatic black bear parts, in the border area. The operation was carried out by the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Division (NRECD) in collaboration with Border Patrol Police and forestry officials. The arrests took place on March 7 at approximately 11:30 near a checkpoint between markers 14 and 15, just 20 metres from Sri Phen Road in Ban Khlong Phaeng, Thap Sadet Subdistrict, Ta Phraya District. The operation followed a tip-off about illegal possession of wildlife remains. The suspects were identified as Chaiyan Inprasong, 62, and Surasak Yimklim, 36, both residents of Thap Sadet. They were found in possession of: • Six kilograms of Asiatic black bear parts, including two front paws and two hind paws. • A full Sunda pangolin, weighing nine kilograms. Both individuals were charged with illegal possession and trade of wildlife under Thai conservation laws. Authorities confirmed that the suspects confessed during questioning. They were subsequently taken into custody and handed over to investigators at Tap Thai Police Station in Ta Phraya District for legal proceedings. The confiscated wildlife remains have been documented and placed under the care of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), Region 1 (Prachin Buri), for safekeeping in accordance with regulations. Illegal wildlife trade remains a serious issue in Thailand, with authorities continuing to crack down on those involved in the trafficking and possession of endangered species. -- 2025-03-09

Picture from responders. A man and a woman were injured in Samut Prakan after their motorcycle was struck by a fallen communication cable, causing them to crash. The incident occurred on the Old Sukhumvit Road in Bang Pu Subdistrict, Mueang District, on morning of 7 March. Emergency services from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation were dispatched to the scene following reports of the accident. Upon arrival, they found the injured individuals, identified as Mr. Chotanan Sirichaiawatkul, 34, and Ms. Prowalee Srithongsap, 31. Both received initial medical treatment at the scene before being transported to Chularat 5 Hospital. Nearby, rescue workers discovered a damaged blue Honda motorcycle, registered in Bangkok, lying in the middle of the road. A broken communication cable was also found sprawled across the roadway. According to eyewitnesses, the crash was caused when a passing lorry became entangled with overhead cables, pulling them down onto the road just as the motorcycle was passing. The rider were caught in the wires and lost control of their vehicle, resulting in the crash. Local police from Bang Pu Police Station have launched an investigation into the incident. Authorities are coordinating with the responsible telecommunications provider to determine accountability and ensure necessary legal action is taken. -- 2025-03-09

Picture from responders. A fire broke out in the early hours of March 8 at a cannabis cultivation warehouse in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan. Firefighters battled the blaze for several hours due to the building’s sealed environment and the presence of chemicals used in cannabis production. At approximately 03:50 emergency services received reports of a fire at the Choopy-Choo warehouse, owned by Diamond Trichome Co., Ltd., located in Soi Wat Plad Priang, near Bang Na-Trat Road. Several firefighting units responded to the scene, including from Bang Kaeo Municipality, along with a team of volunteer firefighters. The warehouse was a single-story, climate-controlled facility used for regulated cannabis cultivation. Inside, firefighters found a significant amount of fertilisers and chemicals associated with cannabis production, which posed additional hazards during firefighting operations. Firefighters successfully brought the flames under control using water hose-lines, but due to the building’s enclosed structure, thick smoke continued to fill the premises. Ventilation proved to be a significant challenge, requiring multiple PPV (positive pressure ventilation) fans to be deployed at various points, to clear the smoke and circulate fresh air. The controlled environment of the facility, designed to regulate temperature and humidity for cannabis cultivation, extended the time required to fully extinguish the fire and ensure the safety of the structure. Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the blaze, and an investigation is underway to assess the extent of the damage and any potential violations of safety regulations. No injuries have been reported so far. -- 2025-03-09

Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Minister of Industry, Ekanat Promphan, has ordered the immediate suspension of four recycling factories in Samut Sakhon’s Maha Chai district following serious environmental violations. The decision comes after complaints from local residents in Na Khok subdistrict, who reported severe pollution affecting their livelihoods, particularly salt farming, which has been impacted by contamination turning their salt black. Ekanat stated that investigations revealed these factories were responsible for heavy metal emissions, airborne soot, and wastewater discharge, which seeped into the surrounding salt fields. There were also reports of strong odours, particularly at night when industrial furnaces were in operation. In response, a special inspection team, led by Thitiphat Chotidechachainan, head of the minister’s working group, and Ekniti Romyanont, an inspector from the Department of Industrial Works, conducted on-site checks. They found evidence of improper waste management practices and violations of environmental regulations. Notably, one of the factories had previously been ordered to suspend operations but had resumed activities illegally. The four factories facing immediate closure are: 1. Zheng Qiu (Thailand) Co., Ltd. 2. Kijrungreungthavorn Co., Ltd. 3. Amornprasert Co., Ltd. 4. Wichanee Industrial Site. Authorities found multiple violations, including failure to obtain permits for waste transportation and improper handling of industrial by-products. Consequently, all four factories have been ordered to suspend operations and rectify the issues within 60 days without the possibility of an extension. Minister Ekanat emphasised that the government would not tolerate repeated violations and is considering stricter regulations on pollution control in the recycling and waste management industries. Further investigations uncovered additional illegal activities at each factory: • Zheng Qiu (Thailand) Co., Ltd. was found to be operating without proper authorisation and illegally dumping industrial plastic waste and wastewater outside its premises. • Kijrungreungthavorn Co., Ltd. was found to have unsafe factory conditions, improperly installed machinery, and evidence of illegal industrial waste burial. • Amornprasert Co., Ltd. was found to have buried approximately 35,000 tonnes of suspected aluminium dross, a hazardous industrial by-product. • Wichanee Industrial Site was found to have buried approximately 30 tonnes of the same hazardous waste. None of the factories had obtained permission to transport hazardous waste, and all were found to be illegally storing or burying it on their premises, constituting unauthorised possession of hazardous substances. Authorities have seized over 35,000 tonnes of suspected aluminium dross and sent samples for scientific analysis. If confirmed as hazardous waste, the factories will face legal action for unauthorised possession of hazardous materials, which carries a penalty of up to two years in prison, a fine of up to 200,000 baht, or both. Additionally, the factories will be required to properly dispose of the hazardous waste in compliance with environmental safety regulations. Further legal action will be taken if they fail to comply. Thitiphat Chotidechachainan urged other businesses to adhere strictly to environmental laws, warning that the government would continue to enforce strict measures to protect both the environment and public health. This crackdown marks a significant step in Thailand’s efforts to tackle industrial pollution and reinforce stricter environmental compliance in the recycling sector. -- 2025-03-09