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UPDATE Malaysian Robber Arrested After 9-Million-Baht Gold Heist in Hat Yai Picture courtesy of CIB. Police have apprehended a Malaysian national suspected of robbing a gold shop in broad daylight in central Hat Yai, making off with gold worth over 9 million baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357191-armed-malaysian-robber-steals-184-baht-weight-in-gold-from-hat-yai-store/#findComment-19721875

UPDATE Malaysian Robber Arrested After 9-Million-Baht Gold Heist in Hat Yai Picture and video courtesy of CIB. Police have apprehended a Malaysian national suspected of robbing a gold shop in broad daylight in central Hat Yai, making off with gold worth over 9 million baht. The incident took place at approximately 11:55 on 8 April, when a lone gunman stormed into the Thai Udom 2 Gold Shop on Montri 1 Road in Hat Yai district. Armed with a handgun, the suspect threatened staff and escaped with 138 baht-weight of gold jewellery, valued at around 9 million baht. Following the robbery, police swiftly launched a manhunt and obtained an arrest warrant for the suspect, identified as 61-year-old Malaysian national Yee Boon Long. Authorities coordinated efforts with multiple agencies, inspecting trains, buses, and border checkpoints amid concerns that the suspect may attempt to flee the country. Further investigation revealed that Yee had a lengthy criminal history. Twenty years ago, he was involved in a major gold shop robbery in Butterworth, Malaysia, escaping with approximately 50 million baht worth of valuables. He is believed to have been living in Thailand for over a decade and had previously been arrested by Thai police for a 2017 robbery at another Hat Yai gold shop, Thai Yindee 2, located in the city’s central plaza area. According to the latest reports, Yee was captured while trying to flee via the Southern Bus Terminal in Bangkok. He is currently in police custody and undergoing interrogation. The case has raised concerns over cross-border criminal activity and the need for heightened security at commercial establishments across the region. -- 2025-04-10 ScreenRecording_04-09-2025 18-52-55_1.mp4

Crash in Nakhon Pathom Claims Two Lives and Leaves Four Injured A fatal car crash in Nakhon Pathom has resulted in the deaths of two men and left four others injured. The incident occurred when six young men were returning home after completing public services, at a local temple. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357329-crash-in-nakhon-pathom-claims-two-lives-and-leaves-four-injured/

Picture from responders A fatal car crash in Nakhon Pathom has resulted in the deaths of two men and left four others injured. The incident occurred when six young men were returning home after completing public services, at a local temple. At approximately 14:00 on April 9, police received a report of a car overturning and plunging into a canal in the Rangjik Canal, located in Moo 2, Nong Pak Long, Mueang District, Nakhon Pathom. The authorities promptly dispatched officers, along with emergency medical staff from Nakhon Pathom Central Hospital and rescue teams from the local foundation. At the scene, a Honda sedan with registration from Nakhon Pathom was found submerged, upside down in the canal. Two bodies were discovered on the bank of the canal: Mr. Manot, 40, from Sam Kwai Puek in Mueang Nakhon Pathom, and Mr. Pattarapong, 34, from Pong Madu in Mueang Nakhon Pathom. Both victims had severe neck and rib injuries. Four others, all male passengers, had sustained various injuries. The car’s front windshield was shattered, and the roof had collapsed. A police investigation revealed that all six men were under probation from the Nakhon Pathom Probation Office. Prior to the crash, they had been engaging in public service at Wat Waean Temple, located three kilometres from the accident site. According to the survivors, Mr. Manot, the driver, was unfamiliar with the road and lost control of the vehicle while navigating a bend along the canal. The car veered off the road and plunged into the canal. “We all managed to escape from the back seats of the car. We broke the windows and pulled Mr. Manot and Mr. Pattarapong out, but they were already unconscious. We attempted CPR, but unfortunately, it was too late. We think Mr. Manot may not have been familiar with the route,” one of the survivors recounted. Upon arrival, the families of the deceased were devastated by the sight of the bodies. The authorities later transported the bodies to the hospital for post-mortem procedures, and legal investigations are underway. The families have since arranged for the bodies to be returned for religious rites. -- 2025-04-10

New Zealander Caught Smuggling Cocaine in Passport at Phuket Airport Picture courtesy of Facebook Phuket Airport Immigration A 24-year-old New Zealander has been arrested at Phuket International Airport after attempting to smuggle cocaine into Thailand, concealing the drug inside his passport. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357328-new-zealander-caught-smuggling-cocaine-in-passport-at-phuket-airport/

Picture courtesy of Facebook Phuket Airport Immigration A 24-year-old New Zealander has been arrested at Phuket International Airport after attempting to smuggle cocaine into Thailand, concealing the drug inside his passport. Phuket Immigration officials reported that the arrest took place on 8 April at around 15:10 following a joint operation between the Phuket Airport Immigration Investigation Unit and Sakoo Police. During a routine check at the international arrivals hall, officers discovered 0.18 grams of cocaine hidden inside a small resealable plastic bag, which had been tucked into the suspect’s passport. The suspect, whose name was not released by authorities, was promptly taken into custody and will be charged accordingly. Picture courtesy of Facebook Phuket Airport Immigration -- 2025-04-10

Police Seize 300,000 Meth Pills Hidden in Oxygen Cylinders by Two Lao Nationals Picture courtesy of Khaosod. On the morning of April 9, authorities in the northeastern province of Loei made a significant drug bust, apprehending two Lao nationals attempting to smuggle 300,000 methamphetamine pills across the Mekong River into Thailand. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357327-police-seize-300000-meth-pills-hidden-in-oxygen-cylinders-by-two-lao-nationals /

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. On the morning of April 9, authorities in the northeastern province of Loei made a significant drug bust, apprehending two Lao nationals attempting to smuggle 300,000 methamphetamine pills across the Mekong River into Thailand. The operation, led by local security forces including the 2109 Border Patrol Unit, the Paak Chom Police, and Immigration officers, was conducted under the direction of Police Lieutenant General Chatchai Surachitpong, Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 4, and other high-ranking officials. It was part of a broader effort to enhance border security. The two suspects, identified as 21-year-old Thao Anon Ratthanavong and 18-year-old Thao Tevid Bunhavan, both from Vientiane, Laos, were caught at around 02:40, in the Paak Chom district, Loei. They had arrived by boat from the Lao side of the river and were spotted by officers conducting a routine patrol. The suspects were found carrying three oxygen cylinders, which aroused suspicion among the authorities. Upon further investigation, officers noticed a strong smell of methamphetamine emanating from the cylinders. Upon forcing open the cylinders , they discovered a total of 30 packages of methamphetamine, containing 300,000 pills. The two men admitted that they had been hired to transport the drugs in exchange for a payment of 1,000 Baht per cylinder, and were instructed to bring three cylinders at a time across the river. The individuals claimed that they were unaware of the identity of the recipient waiting to collect the drugs in Thailand, as their role was solely to transport the packages. The suspects were arrested and the methamphetamine seized. They were subsequently transferred to local authorities for further legal proceedings. This successful interception highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in combating cross-border drug trafficking in the region. -- 2025-04-10

Body of 38-Year-Old Found Dead in Ubol Ratana Dam, Victim Stabbed Five Times Picture courtesy of Amarin A 38-year-old man has been found dead in the waters of Ubolratana Dam, Khon Kaen, with five stab wounds under his ribcage. The discovery was made at around 08:00 on 9th April, when a local resident alerted authorities after spotting the body near the water’s edge in Phu Khe Wong, Ubol Ratana District, Khon Kaen. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357325-body-of-38-year-old-found-dead-in-ubol-ratana-dam-victim-stabbed-five-times/

Picture courtesy of Amarin A 38-year-old man has been found dead in the waters of Ubolratana Dam, Khon Kaen, with five stab wounds under his ribcage. The discovery was made at around 08:00 on 9th April, when a local resident alerted authorities after spotting the body near the water’s edge in Phu Khe Wong, Ubol Ratana District, Khon Kaen. Upon arrival, police officers found a pair of black sandals on the shore. The body, identified as Mr. Chonthawat, was found face down in the water. The victim, who was wearing only black shorts and no shirt, had suffered five stab wounds on the left side of his chest. Authorities proceeded to have the body recovered and sent to the hospital for an autopsy. Colonel Wisanu Chanphol, Superintendent of Ubolratana Police Station, confirmed that there were no signs of a struggle at the scene, nor was any weapon found. A car was discovered parked nearby, but there were no signs of blood or any suspicious activity within the vehicle. Investigators have contacted the victim’s family for further information. The victim’s parents, who identified their son as Chonthawat, revealed that he had been struggling with depression for some time and had a history of alcohol abuse, which often led to self-harm. The parents explained that their son had told them he was going to visit a friend in Nong Ruea District before he disappeared. They did not suspect foul play, as they believed he may have walked into the water, using a knife to harm himself. Although the family does not suspect any foul play, police have sent the body for a thorough forensic examination to determine the exact cause of death, as the investigation continues. -- 2025-04-10

Serial Shoplifter Caught After CCTV Exposes Over 20 Thefts in Ratchaburi Picture captured from CCTV. A local grocery shop owner in Damnoen Saduak district has revealed shocking CCTV footage showing a trusted neighbour repeatedly stealing cash from her shop, over 20 times in just a month, with estimated losses exceeding ฿100,000. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357323-serial-shoplifter-caught-after-cctv-exposes-over-20-thefts-in-ratchaburi/

Picture captured from CCTV. A local grocery shop owner in Damnoen Saduak district has revealed shocking CCTV footage showing a trusted neighbour repeatedly stealing cash from her shop, over 20 times in just a month, with estimated losses exceeding ฿100,000. The victim, Mrs. Tim Atthawattana, 68, told reporters that she only became suspicious when she noticed a large sum of money, about ฿10,000, missing from the shop. Initially, she even suspected her own nephew, as the two were often alone in the shop, causing emotional distress within the family. Her nephew, feeling wrongly accused, was reportedly reduced to tears. The truth, however, was uncovered on the morning of 8 April, when Mrs. Tim’s husband noticed someone opening the cash drawer through the reflection in a refrigerator door. The family reviewed CCTV footage and discovered that the thief was in fact a regular customer and neighbour, someone the family knew well and saw every morning. The surveillance footage, covering approximately 30 days, revealed that the suspect had entered the shop and stolen money nearly every day, skipping only three days. On the day of the largest theft, the suspect made off with ฿16,000, which had been counted and stored by Mrs. Tim’s husband and nephew. On other days, it is believed the thief stole between ฿2,000 to ฿3,000 per visit. Mrs. Tim explained that she had not realised anything was amiss because, although the shop was busy, there was no profit. As the situation worsened, she was forced to borrow money from her children to restock goods. “If the money hadn’t gone missing, we would’ve been able to manage,” she said, adding a warning to other shop owners: “Don’t place too much trust in familiar faces. When it comes to money, no one can truly be trusted.” What added insult to injury was that the thief used some of the stolen money, in ฿1,000 banknotes, to make purchases at the same shop. After identifying the suspect, Mrs. Tim’s son-in-law lured the individual to the police station under a ruse, where he was subsequently confronted. Pol. Col. Phupon Thapcharoen, superintendent of Damnoen Saduak Police Station, confirmed that the suspect confessed to all charges and was officially accused of theft. Police have completed detailed questioning and the case will now proceed to the public prosecutor for formal charges. -- 2025-04-10

Power Bank Explosion Sparks House Fire During Extreme Heat in Chachoengsao A house fire believed to have been caused by a power bank explosion during a period of extreme heat nearly destroyed a family home in Tha Takiap district on the afternoon of 8 April. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357322-power-bank-explosion-sparks-house-fire-during-extreme-heat-in-chachoengsao/

Picture from responders. A house fire believed to have been caused by a power bank explosion during a period of extreme heat nearly destroyed a family home in Tha Takiap district on the afternoon of 8 April. Police Lieutenant Taweechai Chuchom, deputy inspector at Tha Takiap Police Station, received the emergency call at approximately 13:15. Fire crews from the local subdistrict administrative organisation (SAO) were dispatched to the scene in Moo 18, Tha Takiap subdistrict. The fire broke out in a single-storey concrete house owned by Ms. Wilaiwan, who was not home at the time, as she had gone out early to tap rubber trees. It is believed that the blaze started in a bedroom where a power bank exploded, likely due to the extreme temperatures combined with heat retention in the concrete-walled room. Ms. Wilaiwan’s father, who had returned home slightly earlier than his daughter, reported hearing the family dog barking frantically. Upon inspection, he discovered smoke and flames emerging from the house and heard a loud explosion-like sound. He quickly alerted local rescue volunteers and contacted his daughter. Ms. Wilaiwan later told reporters that she had not left the power bank charging or plugged into any socket. She suspects the intense heat alone may have caused the device to overheat and explode. “This should serve as a warning to others to be cautious with all electrical appliances and battery-powered devices,” she said. “If you’re leaving the house, unplug everything or move it out of hot areas.” The fire was quickly brought under control before engulfing the entire property, but significant damage was reported. No injuries occurred. Authorities continue to investigate the incident, but initial findings suggest no foul play. The case highlights increasing concerns over the fire hazards posed by battery devices left in high-temperature environments, particularly during Thailand’s scorching hot season. -- 2025-04-10

Chiang Mai Council Candidate Drowns After Car Plunges into Reservoir A crash in Chiang Mai has claimed the life of a local council candidate after he veered his car, off the road and plunged into a large reservoir. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357321-chiang-mai-council-candidate-drowns-after-car-plunges-into-reservoir/

Picture from responders. A crash in Chiang Mai has claimed the life of a local council candidate after he veered his car, off the road and plunged into a large reservoir. At approximately 10:20 on 9 April, officers from Doi Lo Police Station were alerted to an incident involving a vehicle submerged in water at the “twin reservoirs” in Tambon Yang Kram, Doi Lo district. Rescue teams from multiple local foundations, including Saitanboon Rescue, Yang Kram Municipality Rescue, and Doi Lo Volunteer Units, rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, emergency responders discovered a crowd of local residents gathered at the edge of the reservoir. Divers were deployed to search the murky waters, eventually locating a gold Honda City sedan submerged below. Using specialised equipment, the rescue teams successfully retrieved the vehicle. Inside, they found the lifeless body of Mr Thanathan Khieosuk, aged 64, a resident of Yang Kram. Mr Thanathan was a former municipal councillor and was currently campaigning for re-election in the upcoming Tambon Doi Lo council race, running as Candidate No. 3 in District 1. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. Initial reports suggest that Mr Thanathan was unable to escape the vehicle after it entered the reservoir, leading to his death by drowning. The incident has shocked the local community, where Mr Thanathan was known for his public service. His death comes just as he sought a return to office, marking a somber moment during the local election period. -- 2025-04-10

Chinese Couple Arrested in Pattaya for Lewd Public Photo Shoot Picture courtesy of Kaoded. Tourist police in Pattaya have arrested a Chinese couple after they were caught staging an explicit photo shoot on a public pavement in South Pattaya. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357320-chinese-couple-arrested-in-pattaya-for-lewd-public-photo-shoot/

Pictures courtesy of Kaoded. Tourist police in Pattaya have arrested a Chinese couple after they were caught staging an explicit photo shoot on a public pavement in South Pattaya. Acting on a tip-off from a community security volunteer under the Strong Tourist Community (S.T.C.) initiative, police were alerted to a man and a woman, believed to be foreign tourists, setting up a camera and engaging in sexual acts while filming themselves on the pavement in broad daylight. The operation was led by Pol. Col. Songwut Chueaplakij, Superintendent of Division 2, Tourist Police Bureau 1, along with officers from Pattaya City Police Station and Tourist Police Division 4. Investigations quickly identified the pair as Mr. Jiang 67 and Miss Ping 35, a couple from China currently visiting Thailand. The couple was located and brought in for questioning at Pattaya Tourist Police Station. Mr. Jiang claimed to be a professional photographer with a penchant for nude photography in famous tourist destinations around the world. He admitted that he had conducted similar shoots in several countries and had intended to include Pattaya in his personal collection, unaware that such an act constituted a legal offence in Thailand. He apologised to Thai authorities stating he had no intention of causing offence. Both individuals were handed over to the investigative team at Pattaya City Police Station for further legal proceedings. -- 2025-04-10

Severe Storm Damages Over 30 Floating Homes in Kanchanaburi’s Thong Pha Phum District Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A violent summer storm battered Tambon Prang Phlo, in Thong Pha Phum district, Kanchanaburi province, leaving widespread destruction in its wake, particularly affecting over 30 floating homes anchored on the river. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357318-severe-storm-damages-over-30-floating-homes-in-kanchanaburi’s-thong-pha-phum-district/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A violent summer storm battered Tambon Prang Phlo, in Thong Pha Phum district, Kanchanaburi province, leaving widespread destruction in its wake, particularly affecting over 30 floating homes anchored on the river. The storm struck Moo 4 village with intense rain and powerful winds, which ripped through the structures of the floating houses. Many roofs and wooden frames collapsed under the force, with household belongings scattered into the water. Several homes were left completely uninhabitable, causing major disruption to the daily lives of residents. A local resident, visibly shaken, described the ordeal: “The storm came fast and furious. We had no time to move anything, our house collapsed right before our eyes.” Initial inspections by community leaders and local authorities, along with Kanchanaburi Rescue Foundation volunteers, confirmed the extent of the damage. Emergency teams have begun assessing the site, providing temporary shelter for those displaced and coordinating immediate aid efforts. Authorities have also begun drafting recovery plans to support the community’s long-term rebuilding once the situation stabilises. Local officials urged residents living in similar vulnerable riverine communities to remain on alert during the approaching rainy season and prepare emergency evacuation plans as a precaution. -- 2025-04-10

Forest Fire Nearly Spreads to Homes in Uthai Thani, Authorities Suspect Human Cause A forest fire that broke out in the heart of Muang Uthai Thani district came dangerously close to engulfing a residential community with over 20 homes on the afternoon of 9 April. Fortunately, swift action by firefighters prevented the blaze from causing widespread damage. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357317-forest-fire-nearly-spreads-to-homes-in-uthai-thani-authorities-suspect-human-cause/

Picture from responders. A forest fire that broke out in the heart of Muang Uthai Thani district came dangerously close to engulfing a residential community with over 20 homes on the afternoon of 9 April. Fortunately, swift action by firefighters prevented the blaze from causing widespread damage. At around midday, local police from Muang Uthai Thani Police Station and municipal firefighters responded to reports of a spreading wildfire near Soi Rakkandee 13, commonly referred to by locals as the lane behind Valentine Snooker and Wat Manee Sathit Kapittharam. Upon arrival, authorities found a forested area ablaze, with dense smoke blackening the sky. The fire had already consumed approximately 8 rai of land and was spreading rapidly, fuelled by the scorching heat and an abundance of dry, dead grass and vegetation. Emergency crews deployed multiple fire engines and manually extended hoses deep into the affected area, to create a fire break. After around 45 minutes of intense firefighting, they managed to contain the flames. However, some residual hotspots remained and required further dousing to prevent reignition. The area is home to more than 20 households, and residents rushed out of their homes in fear as flames advanced to within 10 metres of the nearest properties. One resident remarked, “We’ve lived with this dry land for years, and nothing like this has ever happened before. It must have been caused by someone.” Police are investigating possible causes and have searched for cigarette butts and footprints in the area. Preliminary theories include a discarded lit cigarette or intentional burning to flush out field rats, a traditional yet dangerous practice. Officers also suspect someone may have started the fire while intoxicated or simply through careless behaviour. Residents expressed outrage over the reckless act, which caused panic and threatened their safety. “It wasn’t a natural fire,” said one local. “There’s been dry grass here forever, but it’s never caught fire like this.” Officials commended the firefighting teams for their rapid and effective response, which prevented the flames from reaching the nearby homes. Police have vowed to pursue the matter further and hold those responsible accountable for endangering lives and property. -- 2025-04-10

Motorcyclist Killed After Being Crushed by 22-Wheel Truck in Nonthaburi A crash in the early hours of 8 April has claimed the life of a 54-year-old man after his motorcycle was struck and subsequently run over by a 22-wheel container truck in Pak Kret district, Nonthaburi. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1357315-motorcyclist-killed-after-being-crushed-by-22-wheel-truck-in-nonthaburi/

Picture from responders. A crash in the early hours of 8 April has claimed the life of a 54-year-old man after his motorcycle was struck and subsequently run over by a 22-wheel container truck in Pak Kret district, Nonthaburi. The incident occurred just after midnight on the outbound side of Tiwanon Road, just before the entrance to the Moo Baan Sahakon 3 estate in Bang Phut sub-district. Officers from Pak Kret Police Station, along with emergency responders from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation, responded to the call and secured the scene. At the site, the lifeless body of Mr. Charan Piatong, 54, from Nakhon Sawan province, was discovered lying beside his black Honda Click motorcycle. His injuries were severe, with reports stating his head had been crushed. The motorcycle bore the registration from Nakhon Ratchasima. Approximately 100 metres away, police located the vehicle involved, a Hino 22-wheel articulated lorry, carrying a shipping container. On inspection, the left rear mudguard of the trailer was visibly bent, and the tyres showed scrape marks, consistent with the collision. A nearby parked car also sustained minor damage when the motorcycle, after falling, slid into it. The truck driver, Mr. Witthawat, 32, told police he had been travelling in the middle lane when the motorcyclist attempted to overtake on the left-hand side. He claimed not to have noticed any impact at first, only becoming aware of the collision upon hearing a loud noise and stopping to investigate. Preliminary police investigations suggest that the motorcyclist may have swerved to avoid a parked car, which caused him to lose control and come into contact with the lorry, before falling and being run over by the trailer wheels. Officers have taken Mr. Witthawat’s statement and recorded the scene for further analysis. Authorities are also reviewing CCTV footage from the surrounding area to confirm the sequence of events. The body of Mr. Charan has been transferred to the Institute of Forensic Medicine for post-mortem examination. Police continue to investigate to determine whether any charges will be filed. -- 2025-04-10

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