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DSI Raids 5 Sites, Seizes 1.8 Million Litres of Drug Precursor Chemicals Pictures courtesy of Matichon. The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has seized more than 1.8 million litres of chemical substances suspected to be used in the illicit production of narcotics, following coordinated raids on five locations across Bangkok and neighbouring Samut Prakan province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364356-dsi-raids-5-sites-seizes-18-million-litres-of-drug-precursor-chemicals/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon. The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has seized more than 1.8 million litres of chemical substances suspected to be used in the illicit production of narcotics, following coordinated raids on five locations across Bangkok and neighbouring Samut Prakan province. At a press briefing held on the morning of 20 June, at DSI headquarters on Chaeng Watthana Road, Pol. Lt. Col. Yutthana Praedam, Director-General of the DSI, was joined by senior officials from multiple agencies, including the Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), the Ministry of Industry, the Department of Excise, the Institute of Forensic Science, and the Narcotics Suppression Bureau. The raids were the result of a wider investigation that stemmed from a seizure made by officers at the Huai Ya-U checkpoint in Tak province on 19–20 September 2024. Officers intercepted a truck transporting 80 containers of acetone, classified as a Category 3 hazardous substance, weighing 12.8 tonnes. The driver was subsequently charged with illegal possession of hazardous materials. Further investigation revealed that the seized chemicals originated from a warehouse belonging to a company based in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan and another site in Dokmai, Prawet district, Bangkok. The materials were purchased from a supplier in Bang Sao Thong, also in Samut Prakan, with the intention of being smuggled across the border to Myanmar via Tak province, an area known to be under the influence of the Democratic Karen Buddhist Army (DKBA). Five Locations Raided Following court-issued search warrants, officials conducted simultaneous raids at five targeted sites. The most significant discoveries were made at the following locations: 1. Factory in Bang Sao Thong, Samut Prakan Authorities found large-scale chemical storage and repackaging equipment, including high-powered pumps and mixing tanks. Chemicals seized included: • 119,600 litres of toluene • 15,200 litres of acetone • 22,990 litres of other hazardous substances In addition, documents detailing chemical imports, exports, and inventory logs were confiscated. 2. Warehouse Complex in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan Stored across five units, officers discovered massive quantities of dangerous chemicals: • 264,200 litres of methylene chloride • 377,000 litres of ethyl acetate • 32,000 litres of acetone • 28,400 litres of trichloroethylene • 559,345 litres of various hydrocarbon solvents 3. Office and Warehouse in Dokmai, Prawet, Bangkok Found at this location were 57,100 litres of acetone and 17,600 litres of unidentified chemicals, along with financial documents and records that could link the site to illegal import-export activity. 4 & 5. Additional Locations While no chemicals were found, authorities confiscated accounting and shipping documents believed to be connected to the case. Illegal Operations and Potential Charges Pol. Lt. Col. Yutthana confirmed that the business operators involved failed to produce valid permits for possession of Category 3 hazardous substances, as required by the Hazardous Substances Act B.E. 2535 (1992). Many of the substances found, including acetone, methanol, and toluene, are commonly used in the manufacture of synthetic drugs. Some of the chemicals also appear on a Ministry of Justice watchlist under its 2016 regulation on controlled substances used in the production of illicit narcotics. Consequently, the DSI and affiliated agencies seized and sealed the chemicals for forensic testing and will proceed with legal action. Mr. Sunthorn Kaewsawang, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Industrial Works, stated that the chemical storage and repackaging found at the sites breached several regulations. Offences include: • Possession of unregistered hazardous materials • Unlicensed repackaging and redistribution • Operating an unregistered factory Convictions could result in up to three years’ imprisonment and fines of up to 300,000 baht under hazardous substance laws, and a further two years’ imprisonment and 200,000 baht fine for unlicensed factory operations. Excise Tax Evasion According to Acting Advisor Lt. Yonyut Phumiprathet of the Excise Department, some of the seized substances, including approximately 400,000 litres of lubricating oil and 30,000 litres of hydrocarbon solvents, fall under excise regulations. As these products were held without proper licensing or excise payment, the department is preparing a tax claim exceeding 2.4 million baht. Offenders may also face fines of five to fifteen times the unpaid tax amount. Further Investigation Underway Forensic science specialist Kannika Sutthapojanarak revealed that one of the main sites contained 16 chemical storage tanks, each with a 50,000-litre capacity, connected to an extensive repackaging and distribution operation. Labels, delivery records and mismatched documentation suggest that some of the chemicals were intended for export under false pretences. Mr. Suwit Singyu of ONCB added that investigators have identified two main groups involved: sellers and intermediaries linked to the main suspect company. Financial tracing and deeper investigations into business relationships are ongoing. Authorities have also uncovered evidence of identity fraud, with one chemical purchase made under the name of a deceased person. The DSI has the authority to designate this case a “special case” under Announcement No. 8, enabling the Director-General to bypass standard board approval procedures. Legal proceedings against all involved parties are now expected to follow. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Matichon 2025-06-21

Detainee Dies in Police Van Crash in Chiang Mai Province Picture courtesy of Amarin A detainee has died after a police transport vehicle from Wiang Haeng Police Station veered off the road on the morning of 20 June. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364355-detainee-dies-in-police-van-crash-in-chiang-mai-province/

Picture courtesy of Amarin A detainee has died after a police transport vehicle from Wiang Haeng Police Station veered off the road on the morning of 20 June. The incident occurred at approximately 09:50 on the road between Ban Mae Ja and Wiang Haeng district, in Moo 4, Thung Khao Phuang subdistrict, Chiang Dao district, Chiang Mai. The police vehicle, which was en route to Chiang Mai Provincial Court, when the driver reportedly lost control and plunged off the roadside. According to Na Wai Police Station, which received the emergency report, the vehicle, a detainee transport van registered in Bangkok, was carrying three male suspects at the time. One of the detainees, identified as Mr. Suay, 31, died at the scene. He had been charged with possession and use of drug. Fortunately, the police driver escaped without injury, as did the remaining two detainees. Pol. Col. Chaichan Phenchaiya, Superintendent of Wiang Haeng Police Station, stated that the detainees were being transported to Chiang Dao Provincial Court for remand proceedings. The journey, covering a distance of approximately 80 kilometres, took a fatal turn when the van slipped off the road. Officers reported that the road in question is steep, winding and had recently been resurfaced with asphalt, making it unusually slick. The vehicle’s tyres were reportedly replaced just months ago. “We’ve always instructed our officers to drive with extreme caution, especially on roads like this. Unfortunately, this was a combination of environmental conditions that led to tragedy,” said Pol. Col. Chaichan, without given any further details, explaining the investigation into the crash is ongoing. The two surviving detainees were safely transferred to court for remand as scheduled. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Amarin 2025-06-21

Illegal Loan Company Busted for Charging 30% Monthly Interest Using iCloud Collateral Picture courtesy of Khaosod Officers from Thailand’s Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) have raided an illicit loan company accused of operating without a license and charging exorbitant interest rates of 30% per month. The company, which accepted iCloud accounts as loan collateral, reportedly has over 5,000 customers across multiple locations. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364353-illegal-loan-company-busted-for-charging-30-monthly-interest-using-icloud-collateral/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod Officers from Thailand’s Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) have raided an illicit loan company accused of operating without a license and charging exorbitant interest rates of 30% per month. The company, which accepted iCloud accounts as loan collateral, reportedly has over 5,000 customers across multiple locations. Under orders from Police Major General Thatphoom Charuprat, ECD officers led by Police Colonel Mekphisarn Sripirom and his team carried out simultaneous raids on the company’s head office in Bangkok’s Bueng Kum district and branches in Samut Prakan’s Samrong Nuea and Phra Pradaeng districts. During the raids, officers seized seven desktop computers, three laptops, 13 mobile phones, a file of iCloud pledge contracts and advertising materials promoting iCloud pledging services. The investigation followed complaints filed by victims with the ECD, alleging that the company had been lending money unlawfully while disguising loans as iCloud pledges. The business required borrowers to surrender sensitive personal and device information, including Apple ID credentials and IMEI numbers. To qualify for loans, customers were required to: • Have more than 500 Facebook friends • Be active on social media • Provide detailed personal and financial information via a link sent by the company Once approved, borrowers retained use of their devices but were required to pay interest at a rate of 30% per month, or a staggering 365% annually. Late payments incurred additional penalties of 100 baht per day, and devices would be remotely locked after seven days of missed payments. Unlocking the device would require further fees. The ECD has initially charged Mr. Atthaphon 38 and Ms. Pratana 29, who managed the loan accounts, with: • Operating a regulated personal loan business without a license • Charging interest above the legal limit Authorities will also summon five company executives for formal charges under the same offences. These are serious violations under financial laws and further prosecutions are expected. The ECD has urged the public to avoid informal loan services that demand sensitive digital credentials as collateral and to report similar operations via official channels. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod 2025-06-21

Fake Lawyer Arrested for Fraud After Scamming Over 30 Victims Out of Millions Picture courtesy of Matichon. A man posing as a licensed lawyer has been arrested in Bangkok after allegedly defrauding more than 30 victims in Si Sa Ket province, with total damages amounting to several million baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364351-fake-lawyer-arrested-for-fraud-after-scamming-over-30-victims-out-of-millions/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A man posing as a licensed lawyer has been arrested in Bangkok after allegedly defrauding more than 30 victims in Si Sa Ket province, with total damages amounting to several million baht. The arrest was carried out by the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), following an order from Pol. Maj. Gen. Wittaya Sriprasertphap, Commander of the CSD. A team led by Pol. Col. Suriyasak Jirawat and Pol. Lt. Col. Athirat Thipcharoen apprehended the suspect, identified as Kitti 43, in front of a house on Soi Phraya Monthathurach Sriphichit 35-12 in Bang Bon district, Bangkok. Kitti was wanted under an arrest warrant issued by the Si Sa Ket Provincial Court (warrant no. 689/2567, dated 16 October 2024) for fraud. Authorities also confirmed that he faces at least seven additional arrest warrants related to similar offences. The investigation began in 2024 after dozens of residents in Si Sa Ket filed complaints with police. The victims reported that Kitti had falsely claimed to be a licensed attorney qualified to represent clients in court. He offered to handle both civil and criminal cases, convincing victims to pay legal fees ranging from 200,000 to 500,000 baht per case. After receiving the payments, Kitti disappeared and failed to follow through on any legal proceedings. Preliminary estimates place the total losses in the millions of baht. Police said the suspect repeatedly targeted individuals facing legal difficulties, exploiting their desperation and limited legal knowledge. He allegedly used perceived gaps in the justice system to lend credibility to his deception. Authorities gathered substantial evidence before securing multiple arrest warrants. Investigators eventually traced the suspect to a hiding place in Bang Bon, where he was taken into custody without incident. During questioning, Kitti denied all charges. He has been transferred to Si Sa Ket Provincial Court to face legal proceedings under the law. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Matichon 2025-06-21

Giant Monitor Lizard Startles Homeowner, Mistaken for Crocodile Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 66-year-old woman was left stunned when a giant monitor lizard dashed into her home in Ang Thong province, prompting a brief panic and a hopeful turn toward good fortune. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364350-giant-monitor-lizard-startles-homeowner-mistaken-for-crocodile/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 66-year-old woman was left stunned when a giant monitor lizard dashed into her home in Ang Thong province, prompting a brief panic and a hopeful turn toward good fortune. The incident occurred in Moo 3, Ban Hae Subdistrict, Mueang District, when local volunteer rescue workers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation were called to assist in removing the large reptile. The call was taken by Mr. Boy, an experienced handler known for safely capturing monitor lizards. The homeowner, Mrs. Somnuek, recounted the moment the creature charged into her house while she was sitting outside. “At first, I thought it was a crocodile,” she said. “It was so big, and it kept making threatening hissing noises. I was frightened.” She called for her son, who took one look and exclaimed, “It’s a huge monitor lizard!” Described as aggressive and on high alert, the animal had taken refuge in the kitchen and continued to hiss whenever approached. Although Mrs. Somnuek said she wasn’t repulsed by the animal, she admitted its size made her nervous. Still, she believed its unexpected appearance might be a sign of impending good luck. Mr. Boy and his team spent around ten minutes carefully capturing the lizard. Once secured, they tied its legs and tail and weighed it on a set of scales, the lizard came in at a hefty 28 kilograms. In a scene that amused the neighbourhood, the team placed the bound lizard on the back of a motorcycle to be released safely into the wild. As news spread, excited locals took note of the number on the weighing scale, 6756, viewing it as a lucky number for upcoming lottery draws. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod 2025-06-21

Electric Shock from Parade Vehicle Kills Two at Wedding Picture courtesy of Komchadluek. A joyful wedding celebration turned into a scene of heartbreak when two men were electrocuted by a parade vehicle that had developed an electrical fault. The incident occurred in the early evening at Ban Kor village in Huai Tai sub-district, Khukhan district, Si Sa Ket province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364349-electric-shock-from-parade-vehicle-kills-two-at-wedding/

Picture courtesy of Komchadluek. A joyful wedding celebration turned into a scene of heartbreak when two men were electrocuted by a parade vehicle that had developed an electrical fault. The incident occurred in the early evening at Ban Kor village in Huai Tai sub-district, Khukhan district, Si Sa Ket province. The two victims were identified as 36-year-old Mr. Rungkiat, known by his nickname “Party,” the owner of the modified vehicle used as a parade sound system and 52-year-old Mr. Lon, a relative of the bride’s family. Both were pronounced dead shortly after being rushed to Khukhan Hospital. According to eyewitnesses, incident unfolded at around 16:00 on 19 June, as final preparations were underway for the last day of a two-day wedding celebration. Mr. Rungkiat had driven his blue modified pickup truck, equipped with powerful loudspeakers and lighting for mor lam music, to the venue. He was in the process of setting up the stage and connecting the sound and lighting systems. Without warning, Mr. Rungkiat collapsed next to the truck. Unaware of what had caused the fall, several guests rushed forward to help, including Mr. Lon. However, in his attempt to assist, Mr. Lon reportedly stumbled into a barbed wire fence, and as he grabbed the side of the vehicle for support, he was also electrocuted. It quickly became apparent that an electrical current was leaking from the vehicle, though the precise cause remains unclear. One witness said someone used a plastic chair to push Mr. Lon’s body away from the truck, after which power to the system was hastily cut. Both men were administered CPR and taken to hospital but were later confirmed dead. The wedding host, who had hired the vehicle for 17,000 baht to provide music entertainment for guests, said the performance was scheduled to begin at 18:00. Local authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the electrical fault, as questions mount over safety precautions and potential negligence. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khomchadluek 2025-06-21

Plankton Bloom Turns Pattaya Sea Green Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A plankton bloom has transformed the waters off Wong Amat Beach in Pattaya, Chonburi Province, from crystal clear to a dark green hue, raising concerns among both locals and tourists. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364347-plankton-bloom-turns-pattaya-sea-green/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A plankton bloom has transformed the waters off Wong Amat Beach in Pattaya, Chonburi Province, from crystal clear to a dark green hue, raising concerns among both locals and tourists. The phenomenon, first noticed late on 19 June by local fishermen, became more pronounced around midday on 20 June. Witnesses reported the sea water turning a murky, green tea-like colour, accompanied by a pungent, sulphur-like odour. One tourist told reporters that the sea was still clear in the morning, but by noon the water had changed noticeably in both appearance and smell. According to local fishermen, the green tide had already formed offshore and drifted closer to the coast as the day progressed. The timing of the bloom coincided with a midday low tide, concentrating the plankton near the shore and intensifying the smell. Despite the unpleasant odour and cloudy water, some international visitors were still seen swimming in the affected area. Officials have confirmed that water samples were collected for laboratory analysis and environmental monitoring is being stepped up. The focus is on understanding the bloom’s composition and any potential harm it may pose to marine ecosystems or public health. Experts suggest that the bloom was likely triggered by several consecutive days of extreme heat and calm seas, which created ideal conditions for the rapid proliferation of phytoplankton. In large quantities, these microscopic organisms can deplete oxygen levels in the water and release unpleasant gases as they decay, particularly hydrogen sulphide, the likely source of the rotten-egg-like smell. Though such blooms are naturally occurring, their increased frequency and intensity in recent years have raised concerns about climate change and pollution. Local authorities are urging residents and tourists to remain cautious while the water quality is being assessed. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Kaoded 2025-06-21

Six Thais Caught Illegally Crossing Border to Return to Work at Cambodian Casino Picture courtesy of TheStandard. Six Thai nationals have been arrested by the Burapha Task Force while attempting to illegally cross the border back into Cambodia to resume work at a casino in Poipet, defying heightened border control measures imposed by authorities. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364346-six-thais-caught-illegally-crossing-border-to-return-to-work-at-cambodian-casino/

Picture courtesy of TheStandard. Six Thai nationals have been arrested by the Burapha Task Force while attempting to illegally cross the border back into Cambodia to resume work at a casino in Poipet, defying heightened border control measures imposed by authorities. The arrest took place on 19 June near a natural border crossing at Ban Mai Khok Sa Baeng in Tha Kham Subdistrict, Aranyaprathet District, Sa Kaeo Province. The operation was carried out by the Aranyaprathet Special Task Unit and Ranger Company 1304 of the 13th Ranger Regiment. According to initial questioning, all six individuals admitted they were employees of Crown Casino in Poipet, earning a monthly wage of approximately 20,000 baht. They had previously re-entered Thailand to renew their travel documents but were unable to return to Cambodia through official checkpoints due to tightened border control measures recently enforced by the Thai government. Frustrated by the restrictions, the group sought assistance from colleagues still in Cambodia, who arranged for them to re-enter the country using an illegal border route. A local guide escorted them to the rendezvous point, but their attempt was thwarted by patrol forces operating in the area. The six suspects are currently in custody and have been handed over to Khlong Luek Police Station for legal processing under Thai immigration and border security laws. Authorities reiterated that unlawful border crossings, regardless of intent, pose significant risks to national security and public safety and will be prosecuted in accordance with the law. Adapted by ASEAN Now from TheStandard 2025-06-21

Quick-Thinking Rescue Saves Food Delivery Rider from Suicide Attempt on Nonthaburi Bridge Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A food delivery rider was dramatically rescued from a suicide attempt on the Phra Nang Klao Bridge in Nonthaburi after a heated dispute with his long-term girlfriend left him emotionally distressed. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364345-quick-thinking-rescue-saves-food-delivery-rider-from-suicide-attempt-on-nonthaburi-bridge/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A food delivery rider was dramatically rescued from a suicide attempt on the Phra Nang Klao Bridge in Nonthaburi after a heated dispute with his long-term girlfriend left him emotionally distressed. Officers from Rattanathibet Police Station and volunteer rescuers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation responded to an emergency call from a concerned passerby who spotted a man in an orange rider uniform sitting precariously on the outer railing of the outbound lane of the Phra Nang Klao Bridge, heading toward Tha It Intersection. Upon arrival, responders found the man, later identified only as “Mr. A,” aged 32, seated on the edge of the bridge near a red motorcycle parked nearby. Concerned for his safety, volunteers began to engage the man in conversation to de-escalate the situation. After a tense moment, rescue volunteer Phutthawan Wongtae seized the opportunity to safely pull Mr. A away from the ledge. The man, visibly shaken and in tears, was taken to a safe location beneath the bridge to calm down. During questioning, Mr. A revealed he had fallen into emotional despair after a serious argument with his girlfriend, with whom he had been in a relationship for several years. She had reportedly blocked him on all communication channels and he had been turned away after attempting to visit her home. Overwhelmed by the situation, Mr. A said he saw no way forward. While recounting the ordeal to police officers, he sobbed uncontrollably and clung to one of them in a moment of emotional release. Volunteer rescuer Phutthawan Wongtae said he had spotted the man while driving to his assigned duties and felt something was wrong. “I circled back and notified the police,” he said. “When I approached, he wouldn’t say anything. I was worried he might jump, so I quickly grabbed him before anything happened.” After ensuring Mr. A was out of immediate danger, police attempted to contact his girlfriend, but she did not answer. Officers then contacted his relatives, who were asked to come and take Mr. A home for further support and monitoring. Authorities praised the swift response and bravery of the rescue team and urged anyone experiencing emotional distress to seek help. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai) or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress or depression. Seek out help. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Kaoded 2025-06-21

Sa Kaeo: Wild Elephant Kills Cucumber Farmer Outside Wildlife Sanctuary Picture courtesy of kaoded. A 61-year-old man was killed by a wild elephant on the morning of 20 June, in the Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary buffer zone in Sa Kaeo province, prompting urgent calls for increased patrols and long-term conflict mitigation between humans and wildlife. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364344-sa-kaeo-wild-elephant-kills-cucumber-farmer-outside-wildlife-sanctuary/

Picture courtesy of kaoded. A 61-year-old man was killed by a wild elephant on the morning of 20 June, in the Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary buffer zone in Sa Kaeo province, prompting urgent calls for increased patrols and long-term conflict mitigation between humans and wildlife. The attack occurred around 07:00, in Village 9, Ban Tha Ten, Phra Phloeng subdistrict, Khao Chakan district. The victim, Mr. Joomkham Jaisawang, was reportedly sleeping in a small hut guarding his cucumber farm located just 1.5 kilometres outside the protected sanctuaryboundary, when a lone wild elephant entered the area, demolished the hut and fatally attacked him. Officials from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), including Mr. Kongkiat Temtamnan, Director of Protected Area Regional Office 2, and Lt. Col. Saneh Detsupa, investigator from Khao Chakan Police Station, visited the scene alongside local administrators and rescue workers from Sawang Sa Kaeo Foundation. According to preliminary examinations, the victim was found face-down with multiple traumatic injuries and severe head trauma, consistent with an elephant trampling. Family members stated that Mr. Joomkham had gone out to tend his field at 20:00 the night before. By morning, villagers discovered the body and alerted authorities. Village headman Thanakorn Thewin confirmed the victim was temporarily residing in Ban Tha Ten, having moved from Chaiyaphum province to rent farmland. His wife said she last heard from him the previous evening before learning of his death early the next day. Mr. Ekachai Saendee, chief of the Khao Ang Rue Nai Wildlife Sanctuary, visited the victim’s family to offer condolences and provided an initial funeral support payment of 5,000 baht. He also outlined the state’s compensation and conflict resolution procedures under existing wildlife damage mitigation programmes. He noted that sanctuary rangers had been actively monitoring and diverting elephants in the area based on prior community alerts, but the attack occurred unexpectedly and tragically. To prevent future incidents, Mr. Ekachai revealed that his team is urgently seeking to expand rapid response patrol units. Currently, only five rangersmonitor a 60-kilometre-long forest border spanning three districts: Wang Sombun, Wang Nam Yen and Khao Chakan. With rising elephant movements and limited manpower, effective control remains a serious challenge. “We are proposing an additional mobile unit dedicated solely to Sa Kaeo province,” he said. “This would significantly improve our capacity to intervene before tragedies like this occur.” The incident is the latest in a series of escalating human-wildlife conflicts in eastern Thailand, where habitat fragmentation, crop encroachment and elephant migration paths intersect with rural livelihoods. Authorities have pledged to improve surveillance, reinforce sanctuary borders, and implement long-term coexistence strategies. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Kaoded 2025-06-21

Army Sergeant Kills Himself with M16 Rifle in Military Quarters Picture courtesy of Amarin. A Royal Thai Army sergeant was found dead in his accommodation at the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) headquarters in Bangkok on 19 June, having reportedly taken his own life with an M16 rifle. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364343-army-sergeant-kills-himself-with-m16-rifle-in-military-quarters/

Picture courtesy of Amarin. A Royal Thai Army sergeant was found dead in his accommodation at the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) headquarters in Bangkok on 19 June, having reportedly taken his own life with an M16 rifle. The deceased has been identified as Sergeant Sarawut aged in his 30s, who was serving as Deputy Squad Commander, 11th Military Circle Infantry Battalion, assigned to duties within ISOC. According to a statement issued by ISOC’s public relations division, the incident occurred at approximately 14:20. Initial investigations suggest the sergeant shot himself in the head with a standard-issue M16A2 rifle inside his duty room. Authorities confirmed that Sgt Sarawut had been on duty on 18 June in the role of assistant guard commander. After his scheduled duties ended on the morning of 19 June, he reportedly remained in the unit’s sleeping quarters to rest, before ultimately using his assigned firearm to take his life. Preliminary checks revealed that he accessed the weapon legally and according to protocol, having been one of only two officers authorised to retrieve firearms from the unit’s secure storage, the other being the Guard Commander. He used the correct passcode to open the weapons cabinet. The motive for the tragic act remains unclear. Early assessments point to possible personal issues, though no specific details have been confirmed. ISOC spokesperson Maj. Gen. Thammanoon Maisonti said a full investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances and any contributing factors. Senior military leadership has been informed and has ordered that Sgt Sarawut’s family be given full support in line with army welfare policy. Officials have also expressed their condolences to the bereaved relatives. The death has prompted internal reviews, and ISOC has pledged to provide further updates as soon as more information becomes available. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai) or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress or depression. Seek out help. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Amarin 2025-06-21

Fugitive Arrested in Pattaya After 18 Years on the Run for Attempted Murder Picture courtesy of TMN Police in Pattaya have arrested a man wanted for an attempted murder committed nearly two decades ago, just two years before the statute of limitations was set to expire. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364342-fugitive-arrested-in-pattaya-after-18-years-on-the-run-for-attempted-murder/

Picture courtesy of TMN Police in Pattaya have arrested a man wanted for an attempted murder committed nearly two decades ago, just two years before the statute of limitations was set to expire. In a coordinated operation, Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Phuridej, Commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau, joined forces with Chonburi Provincial Police Chief Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatchakiat Jindakornsanan, Pattaya Police Superintendent Pol. Col. Anek Srathongyu, and Deputy Superintendent of Investigation Pol. Lt. Col. Arut Saphanon. The operation was backed by the Special Operations Division and local investigative teams. The suspect, 53-year-old Somphot, also known as “Tuk”, a native of Chumphon province, was apprehended while riding a motorcycle in Soi 11, Phonpraphanimit Road, Nong Prue sub-district, Bang Lamung district. He was wanted under arrest warrant No. J.1725/2550 issued by the Pattaya Provincial Court on 3 December 2007 for the charge of attempted murder. During interrogation, Somphot confessed to the crime. He recounted that around 18 years ago he had gone to collect a debt from a man, but the confrontation escalated. In an attempt to intimidate the debtor, he drew a firearm and fired a warning shot. However, the bullet missed its intended target and struck the debtor’s girlfriend in the abdomen, leaving her critically injured. Realising the gravity of the situation, Somphot fled the scene, discarded the weapon in a waterway, and went into hiding. He initially stayed in Bangkok before relocating back to his hometown in Chumphon. Believing the case had long gone cold, he eventually returned to Pattaya to live with his new partner. His confidence proved misplaced. Pattaya police investigators, who had kept the case file active, tracked him down and arrested him just two years before the 20-year statute of limitations would have made prosecution impossible. Somphot has fully confessed to the charges. He was immediately handed over to Pattaya City Police for legal proceedings. Adapted by ASEAN Now from TMN 2025-06-21