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Police Officer Killed by Falling Tree in Nan Province Picture courtesy of NBT. A police officer has died after a tree he was cutting down fell and crushed him in his own plantation in Nan province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359858-police-officer-killed-by-falling-tree-in-nan-province/

Picture courtesy of NBT. A police officer has died after a tree he was cutting down fell and crushed him in his own plantation in Nan province Police Lieutenant Tinakorn Chaiyrian of Santi Suk Police Station received a report from the Nan 191 emergency radio centre of a fatal incident, involving a fallen tree in a forest plantation near Ban Pong Kham, in Du Phong subdistrict, Santi Suk district. He immediately informed Police Colonel Somchai Kawinet, Superintendent of Santi Suk Police Station, and rushed to the scene with a medical examiner from Santi Suk Hospital, rescue workers from Du Phong Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, and an investigation team. The location, situated on a hill behind Ban Pong Kham village, was where the body of Police Sub-Lieutenant Thanapong Muangja, 57, was discovered. He was the Deputy Inspector of the Santi Suk Police Station’s Crime Prevention Division. He was found dressed in camouflage clothing lying pinned beneath a tree. Officials believe he had been dead for more than three hours before being found. Relatives told police that the victim had gone out to work in his plantation as usual. When he failed to return home, the family grew concerned and set out to search for him, eventually discovering his lifeless body beneath the tree. Initial investigations suggest no foul play, and the family has not raised any suspicions regarding the cause of death. The body has been sent to Santi Suk Hospital for further examination. Authorities have created a detailed map and photographic record of the scene as part of the formal investigation process. Police have expressed condolences to the family and praised the late officer for his long-standing service and dedication to the community. Adapted by Asean Now from NBT 2025-05-06.

Two Myanmar Nationals Arrested for Illegal Giant Clam Harvesting off Koh Phangan Picture courtesy of Matichon. Two Myanmar men have been arrested for illegally harvesting endangered giant clams in the waters off Koh Phangan, as authorities seized a significant number of the protected marine species. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359857-two-myanmar-nationals-arrested-for-illegal-giant-clam-harvesting-off-koh-phangan/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Two Myanmar men have been arrested for illegally harvesting endangered giant clams in the waters off Koh Phangan, as authorities seized a significant number of the protected marine species. Mr. Waiyawut Santivichaya, head of the Koh Tao Marine Fisheries Protection Unit under the Songkhla Marine Fisheries Suppression Centre, dispatched a team led by fisheries officer Mr. Chaowalit Iadmee. The operation, conducted in coordination with local fisheries officials and community leaders, targeted individuals suspected of engaging in illegal fishing activities in the Chaloklum Bay area of Koh Tao Subdistrict. The officers apprehended two male foreign nationals of Myanmar origin, who had been diving to collect Tridacna gigas, commonly known as giant clams, a protected and visually striking marine species. A total of 24 clams were confiscated as evidence. Both suspects face charges under the Fisheries Act B.E. 2558 (2015) and its amendment in B.E. 2560 (2017), specifically violating Section 66, with penalties prescribed under Section 145. The men were handed over to Koh Phangan Police Station for further legal proceedings, recorded as Criminal Case No. 197/2568 and Seized Items Log No. 75/2568. Koh Tao subdistrict chief, Mr. Kobchai Saowaluk, commented that enforcement efforts against illegal clam harvesting have long been in place. He noted that in earlier years, offenders were typically fined between 20,000–30,000 baht per clam, but current penalties have risen sharply to around 40,000 baht per clam, reflecting the growing urgency to protect these species. Giant clams are renowned for their vivid colours and patterned flesh, which can include vibrant blues and tiger-striped textures, traits that make them a target for poaching despite their protected status. The arrests have sparked widespread public reaction on Koh Phangan, particularly on local social media pages. Comments ranged from concerns about environmental destruction to calls for stricter penalties, blacklisting from re-entry into Thailand and immediate deportation of offenders. One popular comment read: “Koh Phangan will be barren if these Burmese keep harvesting giant clams. They must face harsher punishment, blacklist them permanently.” Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting endangered marine life and upholding the law in collaboration with local communities. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-06.

Pickup Truck Driver Dozes Off, Crashes Across Lane into Two Motorcycles Picture from responders. A road crash occurred in Bo Win subdistrict of Si Racha district, Chonburi province on the afternoon on 5 May, a pickup truck veered across the central line and ploughed into two motorcycles, injuring four people. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359856-pickup-truck-driver-dozes-off-crashes-across-lane-into-two-motorcycles/

Picture from responders. A road crash occurred in Bo Win subdistrict of Si Racha district, Chonburi province on the afternoon on 5 May, a pickup truck veered across the central line and ploughed into two motorcycles, injuring four people. The collision took place at approximately 12:20 on Sukhaphiban 8 Road, near Soi Chueam Maitri. Police Lieutenant Sarawut Sinsai, the duty officer at Bo Win Police Station, responded to the emergency call and arrived at the scene accompanied by rescue personnel from the Phyoyingtai Sriracha Foundation. The a two-way road was strewn with debris near a row of local shops. A grey Toyota pickup truck registered in Rayong province was found with front-end damage, having slammed into two motorcycles. One of the bikes, a blue Honda Wave 125 with Chonburi plates, was crushed, while the second, a white Honda also registered in Chonburi, was found lodged underneath the truck with parts scattered across the road. Four individuals, three men and one woman, were injured in the crash. Emergency responders provided first aid before transferring the victims to Laem Chabang Hospital. The pickup driver sustained minor injuries and was taken into custody for questioning. Initial investigations revealed that the driver admitted to falling asleep at the wheel, having not slept the previous night. This caused him to lose control of the vehicle and cross into the opposite lane, resulting in the high-impact collision. Police are continuing their inquiries, including taking further statements from the injured parties and eyewitnesses. Legal proceedings against the pickup driver are underway, as authorities work to establish a full account of the incident. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-06.

Man Shot in the Back Over Alleged Affair with Attacker’s Mother Picture courtesy of ThaiRath. Thai police have arrested a 22-year-old man suspected of shooting a 28-year-old in what is believed to be a revenge attack over a romantic relationship involving the victim and the mother of one of the alleged attackers. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359853-man-shot-in-the-back-over-alleged-affair-with-attacker’s-mother/

Picture courtesy of ThaiRath. Thai police have arrested a 22-year-old man suspected of shooting a 28-year-old in what is believed to be a revenge attack over a romantic relationship involving the victim and the mother of one of the alleged attackers. The incident occurred at approximately 19:30 on 4 May, along a canal road in Sisaket province. The victim, identified as Mr. Sitthichok, 28, from Warin Chamrap district in Ubon Ratchathani, was reportedly returning home after dropping off a female friend when he was shot in the back and fell into a dry drainage canal. He was left critically injured and was rushed to hospital by emergency services. Police from Muang Sisaket Police Station have since arrested one suspect, Mr. Wanawut, also known by the nickname “Film” aged 22. A second suspect, known only as “Kong”, remains at large and is being actively pursued by authorities. According to Pol. Col. Narint Buppata, the investigation revealed that the motive behind the attack was a personal grudge. Mr. Sitthichok allegedly had an intimate relationship with the mother of Kong, prompting the younger man to plot revenge. The two suspects reportedly lured the victim using a fake Facebook chat account posing as Film’s girlfriend, convincing him to come out alone. Upon arrival at the arranged location, the suspects are said to have used a motorcycle to cut off the victim’s motorbike, forcing him into the canal, where they then shot him in the back before fleeing the scene. Film has been charged with attempted murder, illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, carrying a firearm in public without a permit, and discharging a firearm. He is now in police custody and will be prosecuted. The victim has now been declared out of danger and is recovering in hospital. Once his condition improves, he will be formally interviewed by police to provide further details on the incident. Adapted by Asean Now from ThaiRath 2025-05-06.

Man Arrested for Snatching Turkish Tourist’s Phone After Asking for Directions Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 26-year-old Thai man has been arrested for stealing a mobile phone from a Turkish tourist in central Bangkok after using a request for directions as a distraction. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359852-man-arrested-for-snatching-turkish-tourist’s-phone-after-asking-for-directions/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 26-year-old Thai man has been arrested for stealing a mobile phone from a Turkish tourist in central Bangkok after using a request for directions as a distraction. The incident occurred on 4 May near Hua Lamphong Railway Station on Rong Muang Road in Pathum Wan district. The victim, Mr Deniz Gokdeniz, 33, reported that a man on a motorcycle approached him to ask for directions, before suddenly snatching his phone and speeding away. Senior Metropolitan Police officials, including Lt. Gen. Siam Boonsom and officers from Pathum Wan Police Station, launched an investigation immediately after the report was filed at 17:05. CCTV footage from the area helped identify the suspect and trace his movements following the theft. The suspect, later identified as Mr Saran, also known by the nickname “Yak,” was apprehended at 18:00 on 4 May at a hotel room on Rong Muang Road. Officers found a Honda motorcycle with the licence plate from Yasothon, parked in front of the hotel, the same vehicle used in the theft. When police entered Room 26, they found Mr Saran inside wearing clothing matching that seen in the surveillance footage. Upon questioning and being shown CCTV stills, Mr Saran confessed to stealing the phone. He later admitted to selling the stolen mobile at a shop on Suea Pa Road for 600 baht. The victim was brought to the police station where he positively identified Mr Saran as the thief. According to the investigation, the suspect took advantage of the tourist’s vulnerability while asking for directions before committing the snatch-and-run theft. Police also noted that the suspect had a history of drug use. He is currently in custody, along with the evidence, and has been handed over to investigators for prosecution. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-06.

Man 42, Goes on Machete Rampage, Leaves Woman Critically Injured in Chiang Rai Picture courtesy of Amarin. A 42-year-old man went on a violent rampage in the Mae Loi subdistrict of Thoeng district, Chiang Rai, attacking a woman with a machete and leaving her in critical condition. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359850-man-42-goes-on-machete-rampage-leaves-woman-critically-injured-in-chiang-rai/

Picture courtesy of Amarin. A 42-year-old man went on a violent rampage in the Mae Loi subdistrict of Thoeng district, Chiang Rai, attacking a woman with a machete and leaving her in critical condition. The incident occurred on the morning of 5 May at around 09:20. Village headman Mr Surachart Naidan of Moo 12 received an urgent report from local residents of a brutal assault involving a machete. The suspect, later identified as Mr Surachet Chanaphim, aged 42, residing at house number 142, Moo 12, Mae Loi, was apprehended by villagers at the scene in front of his home. With assistance from concerned residents, Mr Surachart successfully restrained the assailant before alerting officers from Thoeng Police Station, who arrived shortly after to take Mr Surachet into custody for questioning. The victim, identified as Ms Sairung Mafong, a resident of Moo 3, Mae Loi, was found seriously wounded. She had suffered multiple deep wounds to her face and back, the result of a frenzied machete attack. Emergency services promptly transported her to Padaet Hospital, where she remains in critical condition under close medical supervision. The motive behind the assault remains unclear. Authorities have yet to establish whether there was any prior conflict between the victim and the attacker. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-06.

Kanchanaburi: Man Falls to His Death from Cliff in Thong Pha Phum Picture courtesy of NBT. A man believed to be in his thirties or early forties has died after falling from a cliff near Khao Radar, close to Development Battalion 11, Moo 1, Tha Khanun subdistrict, in the Thong Pha Phum district of Kanchanaburi province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359849-kanchanaburi-man-falls-to-his-death-from-cliff-in-thong-pha-phum/

Picture courtesy of NBT. A man believed to be in his thirties or early forties has died after falling from a cliff near Khao Radar, close to Development Battalion 11, Moo 1, Tha Khanun subdistrict, in the Thong Pha Phum district of Kanchanaburi province. At approximately 18:00 on 4 May, the Kanchanaburi Rescue Foundation (Thong Pha Phum unit) and volunteers from the Thailand Disaster Relief Volunteer Unit Than 34-00, Bunyawipa Base, were dispatched to the scene following reports of a person having fallen from a cliff in a remote mountainous area. Rescuers had to trek roughly one kilometre up a steep incline to reach the site. Upon arrival, they discovered the body of a male victim lying on his back with his arms outstretched. He was dressed in protective clothing typically used for removing hornet or bee nests, suggesting he may have been attempting to collect honey when he lost his footing and fell. The man was pronounced dead at the scene, with officials believing the fall to have been fatal on impact. His identity has not yet been confirmed. Location of Incident. Police from Thong Pha Phum Police Station, accompanied by on-duty medical staff from Thong Pha Phum Hospital, arrived shortly afterwards to examine the area and inspect the body for signs of foul play. No suspicious circumstances were reported. The deceased was transported by rescue volunteers to Thong Pha Phum Hospital for a post-mortem examination to determine the cause of death and identification. Adapted by Asean Now from NBT 2025-05-06.

Vietnamese Fishing Boats Seized for Illegally Entering Thai Waters off Narathiwat Pictures courtesy of CIB In a maritime operation, The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), through the Marine Police Division, has intercepted and detained two Vietnamese fishing vessels illegally operating in Thai territorial waters off the coast of Narathiwat province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359847-vietnamese-fishing-boats-seized-for-illegally-entering-thai-waters-off-narathiwat/

Pictures courtesy of CIB In a maritime operation, The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB), through the Marine Police Division, has intercepted and detained two Vietnamese fishing vessels illegally operating in Thai territorial waters off the coast of Narathiwat province. A total of 15 Vietnamese nationals were arrested on multiple charges, including: 1. Illegal entry into the Kingdom of Thailand via an unauthorised route, 2. Unlawful stay in the country without permission, 3. Engaging in unauthorised commercial fishing within Thai waters, and 4. Operating unregistered (stateless) fishing vessels. The arrest was made approximately 21 nautical miles east of the Bang Nara estuary, in an area aligned with Tambon Bang Nak, Mueang District, Narathiwat Province. Marine Police patrol boat Pathumwan 2 (817) was dispatched after authorities received intelligence of unidentified vessels engaged in unauthorised fishing in Thai waters. Upon locating and boarding the two vessels, officers found that none of the crew could speak Thai or produce identification or documentation. A subsequent investigation with the help of an interpreter confirmed that all on board were Vietnamese nationals and that the vessels were operating without permission or registration. Authorities seized the two fishing boats, along with their illegal catch of various fish and sea cucumbers, as evidence. The operation was conducted under the directive of Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Phuridech, Commissioner of the CIB, alongside Pol. Maj. Gen. Setsathit Nippaya, Commander of the Marine Police Division. The suspects were formally charged and transferred to Mueang Narathiwat Police Station for legal proceedings. The CIB reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Thailand’s maritime sovereignty, stressing that illegal incursions into Thai waters will not be tolerated. Adapted by Asean Now from CIB 2025-05-06.

Lightning Strike Injures Two Women at Rocket Festival Picture courtesy of Matichon. A festive rocket-launching ceremony turned to panic when a lightning strike injured two women during a sudden storm at Wat Rattananettaram, also known locally as Wat Lan Hoy, in Nadi District, Prachinburi Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359846-lightning-strike-injures-two-women-at-rocket-festival/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A festive rocket-launching ceremony turned to panic when a lightning strike injured two women during a sudden storm at Wat Rattananettaram, also known locally as Wat Lan Hoy, in Nadi District, Prachinburi Province. The dramatic incident occurred on the afternoon of 4 May during a traditional Bun Bang Fai (rocket festival) event. Video clips posted on social media captured the moment lightning struck near the music stage, knocking two women unconscious as rain and strong winds swept through the area. One of the injured, identified as Ms Orapin Seesongcram, sustained only minor injuries and returned home after the incident. The second victim, Ms Orawan, 35, suffered more serious injuries with burns and pain across both shoulders. She was rushed to Nadi Hospital by local volunteers from the Sajja Phutthatham Foundation. According to Ms Orawan’s husband, Mr Somkuan 37, his wife had travelled to the event with a music troupe, bringing along their two sons aged 9 and 2. During the storm, while she stood near the stage and the younger child rested in a cradle, the lightning bolt struck within the immediate vicinity, causing her to collapse. “She was standing next to the music stage when the storm hit. Suddenly, lightning struck and she fell unconscious. It was terrifying,” Mr Somkuan recounted. Doctors have confirmed that Ms Orawan is now in stable condition, though she is experiencing persistent pain in her shoulders. She is expected to remain under observation at the hospital for a couple of days. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-06.

Drunk Teen Dies in Motorcycle Crash — Echoes of Father’s Death 19 Years Ago Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 19-year-old man died in the early hours of the morning on 5 May, after crashing his newly purchased motorcycle into a roadside sign while heavily intoxicated, in a crash that eerily mirrored the death of his father nearly two decades ago. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359845-drunk-teen-dies-in-motorcycle-crash-—-echoes-of-father’s-death-19-years-ago/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 19-year-old man died in the early hours of the morning on 5 May, after crashing his newly purchased motorcycle into a roadside sign while heavily intoxicated, in a crash that eerily mirrored the death of his father nearly two decades ago. The incident occurred at approximately 03:00 on the Sri Sothon–Tad Mai Road, in front of a clinic in Na Mueang subdistrict, Chachoengsao province. Pol. Capt. Sitthisak Buathara, an investigator with the Mueang Chachoengsao Police Station, responded to the scene along with doctors from Phutthasothorn Hospital and local rescue workers. The victim, identified as Mr Suwichak, was found lying on his back with significant bleeding, despite wearing a helmet. His red-plated Honda Wave motorcycle was located nearby with its front end damaged and fragments of the vehicle scattered across the road. A large metal business sign showed heavy damage and had been dislodged from its frame, indicating a high-impact collision. Friends revealed that the deceased had been drinking heavily earlier in the evening with a group of six friends at a local bar. According to one of them, Film, the victim insisted he was able to ride home despite his level of intoxication. “I offered to drive him home, but he said he could manage and wanted to ride his brand-new red-plated bike himself,” Film recounted. Moments later, the victim sped off before anyone could stop him. The group only realised what had happened when they came upon the crash site, initially obscured by a parked truck. Film then contacted the victim’s mother, who rushed to the scene. Heartbreakingly, the victim’s mother revealed that her son’s death bore an uncanny resemblance to the death of his father 19 years ago. “It’s just the two of us… He died exactly as his father did, on a motorcycle,” she said tearfully. Police have sent the body for a full forensic examination at Srinakharinwirot University’s Institute of Forensic Medicine in Nakhon Nayok. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-06.

Mentally Ill Man Jumps to His Death from Hospital After Two-Hour Negotiation Fails Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 28-year-old man suffering from mental illness died after jumping from the 10th floor of Yala Hospital on the evening of 4 May, despite desperate attempts by family members and medical personnel to dissuade him for over two hours. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359844-mentally-ill-man-jumps-to-his-death-from-hospital-after-two-hour-negotiation-fails/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 28-year-old man suffering from mental illness died after jumping from the 10th floor of Yala Hospital on the evening of 4 May, despite desperate attempts by family members and medical personnel to dissuade him for over two hours. The incident occurred around 19:05, when police at Muang Yala Police Station were alerted to a potential suicide attempt at the hospital. Emergency responders, including rescue teams from Mae Thaptim and Mae Ko Nia Yala, rushed to the scene. The man, dressed in black, had reportedly entered the private patient ward before fleeing to the balcony at the rear of the 10th floor. Police, doctors, nurses, and rescue workers immediately began negotiating with him in hopes of preventing a tragedy. At 20:25 officers brought in the man’s relatives to help with the effort. However, despite continued appeals and emotional pleas, the man jumped just ten minutes later, landing on a rooftop below before bouncing to the ground. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have since confirmed that the deceased was receiving treatment for psychiatric issues, though it remains unclear how he was able to reach the high-level balcony unattended. 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 Matichon 2025-05-06.

UPDATE Anthrax Confusion in Mukdahan: Still Trying to Trace Origin of Outbreak Picture courtesy of Matichon. Health authorities in Mukdahan are scrambling to trace the source of an anthrax outbreak that has already claimed one life and infected two others, as conflicting test results complicate efforts to pinpoint the origin. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359368-anthrax-death-reported-in-mukdahan-province/#findComment-19782039

UPDATE Anthrax Confusion in Mukdahan: Still Trying to Trace Origin of Outbreak Picture courtesy of Matichon. Health authorities in Mukdahan are scrambling to trace the source of an anthrax outbreak that has already claimed one life and infected two others, as conflicting test results complicate efforts to pinpoint the origin. Dr Narong Chankaeo, Provincial Public Health Officer, confirmed that three cases of anthrax have been identified so far in Don Tan District, one of which resulted in death. Two other patients remain under hospital care, while 98 individuals are being closely monitored for symptoms, primarily those who may have been exposed through skin contact or ingestion. No cases of respiratory anthrax have been detected, which would require a longer 60-day observation period. The investigation has focused on two cattle slaughtering operations. The first, on 12 April, was linked to the deceased and the confirmed patients. The second, on 28 April, involved a separate group, with no apparent connection to the first. However, spore tests from the second site returned positive for anthrax, while no spores were detected at the first, the one associated with the fatalities. Health officials were further alarmed when environmental samples taken from the deceased’s home revealed anthrax spores on both a chopping board and a knife. This discovery suggests indirect contamination and highlights the difficulty in tracing the exact origin of the infection. “We now face the difficult task of determining how the infection entered the first slaughter group, since environmental tests from that location showed no signs of the bacteria,” Dr Narong explained. Questions have arisen about whether the contaminated beef may have originated outside the province. However, investigations have so far yielded no confirmation, and no one has admitted to importing cattle or meat from other areas. In response, local authorities have launched a comprehensive sanitation campaign in the affected area of Lao Mee subdistrict. Disinfectant has been distributed to every household, with particular focus on cleaning food preparation equipment. Talks are also underway about providing new chopping boards and knives to residents to restore public confidence. When asked about the effectiveness of the current decontamination measures, Dr Narong said follow-up tests might be necessary, though this decision lies with the provincial livestock department. The investigation continues amid public concern and a race against time to prevent further infections. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-06.