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Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Five primary school children sustained minor injuries after a school transport van driver veered off the road and slammed into an electricity pole in Chai Nat province early morning of 22 May. The driver later admitted to having momentarily fallen asleep at the wheel due to exhaustion. Police Lieutenant Colonel Bunshot Khiaolek, deputy investigator at Mueang Chai Nat Police Station, responded to an emergency call reporting the accident along the Wang Rai canal road, near Wat Ho Thongkham–Ban Mai route in Ban Kluai subdistrict. Rescue personnel from Ban Kluai and volunteers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation also attended the scene. Upon arrival, authorities found a passenger van off-road after crashing into a power pole, which had been left leaning from the impact. Eight schoolchildren had been on board. Five sustained minor injuries, mostly bruises, scrapes, and one with a split lip and were immediately transported to a local hospital for medical attention. The remaining three students were unharmed but visibly shaken and frightened by the ordeal. The driver, 36-year-old Mr Wanchai, suffered a minor leg injury. Police conducted a breathalyser test, which returned a reading of 0, confirming that alcohol was not involved. He was taken for further questioning and will face legal proceedings. In his statement, Mr Wanchai explained that he was covering the school run on behalf of the vehicle’s owner, who was unavailable. He had set off at 06:00, from Huai Krot in Sankhaburi District, heading to a school less than 3 kilometres from the crash site. Mr Wanchai admitted he dozed off behind the wheel, citing fatigue from an unusually early start to the day. He expressed deep regret, adding, “I also have four children. I would never want anything like this to happen.” The headmistress of the school, Ms Oranong Phuyathon, confirmed that five students had received minor injuries and were undergoing medical checks, while the others were receiving emotional support. She acknowledged the seriousness of the incident but noted that the situation could have been much worse: “If the driver had swerved left instead of right, the van would have plunged into the canal, which could have been far more dangerous.” School authorities have contacted the parents and are providing initial psychological support for the children affected by the crash. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-23.

Death of Former Village Headman’s Assistant – Suspected Suicide After Court Stress Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A former village headman’s assistant was found dead in a remote farm hut in Si Sa Ket province on the morning of the 22 May, with initial findings suggesting suicide following mounting stress over an ongoing court case. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361495-death-of-former-village-headman’s-assistant-–-suspected-suicide-after-court-stress/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A former village headman’s assistant was found dead in a remote farm hut in Si Sa Ket province on the morning of the 22 May, with initial findings suggesting suicide following mounting stress over an ongoing court case. At approximately 07:30, Police Lieutenant Colonel Sanga Somsuk, investigation officer at Mueang Si Sa Ket Police Station, received a report of a death in a hut located in the rice fields near Ban Nong Krok, Mueang District. He responded to the scene alongside relevant emergency personnel. Upon arrival, authorities discovered the lifeless body of Mr. Sawai aged 65, lying on the floor of the hut. A gunshot wound was visible on his temples and blood had pooled around the body. Near the right side of the deceased was a 9mm magazine-fed handgun and a single spent shell casing was found under the bed nearby. His wife and children arrived at the scene visibly distraught, struggling to come to terms with the shocking discovery. The deceased’s 34-year-old daughter told police that her father had a routine of leaving for the fields between 04:00 and 05:00. She had been asleep and was unaware of the time he left the house that morning. She added that her father was a quiet man who seldom spoke about his problems. “Last night we were still having dinner together,” she said. “He didn’t mention anything troubling. I have no idea why he would do something like this.” A local source informed reporters that the deceased had legally purchased the firearm years ago while serving as a headman’s assistant. The source further revealed that Mr. Sawai had recently attended a court hearing on 20 May regarding allegations of local government corruption. It is believed the case may have contributed significantly to his stress. Those close to him said he had previously expressed suicidal thoughts, though none believed he would act on them. Police are continuing their investigation, though initial evidence suggests suicide. If no objections are raised by the family, the body will be released for funeral rites. 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 Khaosod 2025-05-23.

Two Investment ‘Coaches’ Arrested Over Fake Gold Trading Scam Picture courtesy of Matichon. Two self-styled investment “coaches” have been arrested by the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) for allegedly luring victims into a fraudulent online gold and FOREX trading scheme, resulting in financial losses of millions. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361493-two-investment-‘coaches’-arrested-over-fake-gold-trading-scam/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Two self-styled investment “coaches” have been arrested by the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) for allegedly luring victims into a fraudulent online gold and FOREX trading scheme, resulting in financial losses of millions. Officers from Subdivision 4 of the Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECSD) apprehended the suspects behind the Facebook page “Diamond Trader”, which had been live-streaming videos encouraging viewers to invest in “risk-free” gold trading opportunities. The pair promised returns as high as 10% and guaranteed full refunds of initial capital. However, an investigation revealed that no actual trading took place. Authorities say the duo operated a classic Ponzi scheme, using new investors’ money to pay earlier participants in a short-term cycle designed to build trust. Once suspicions arose, the scammers allegedly claimed trading accounts had incurred losses and cited high tax liabilities as an excuse to withhold repayments. The Economic Crime Division has pledged to pursue full legal action against the perpetrators and warned the public not to fall for investment offers that promise unrealistically high returns with no associated risk. “Such schemes are not genuine investments,” an ECD official said. “They are traps laid by fraudsters preying on people’s financial hopes.” Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-23.

Teacher Dies in Motorcycle Crash in Nonthaburi Picture courtesy ot Khaosod. A crash claimed the life of a teacher in Nonthaburi province early morning of 22 May, when she lost control of her motorcycle and crashed on Chaiyaphruek Road. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361492-teacher-dies-in-motorcycle-crash-in-nonthaburi/

Picture courtesy ot Khaosod. A crash claimed the life of a teacher in Nonthaburi province early morning of 22 May, when she lost control of her motorcycle and crashed on Chaiyaphruek Road. At approximately 00:30, officers from Chaiyaphruek Police Station and members of the Ruamkatanyu Foundation responded to reports of a motorcycle crash on the outbound section of Chaiyaphruek Road, just before the left turn onto Ratchaphruek Road in Bang Phlap Subdistrict, Pak Kret District. Upon arrival, authorities discovered the body of Ms Jamaree Chumuang, 30, a teacher at Anurakprasit School in Mueang District, Nonthaburi. She was found lying deceased on the road beside her black-and-red Honda Click motorcycle. Preliminary investigations revealed a scrape mark stretching around 10 metres along the road surface. CCTV footage from a nearby shop showed the motorcycle travelling normally before suddenly falling just as it disappeared from the camera’s view. A witness, Mr Yanapat, 19, told officers that he and his sibling were riding a motorcycle ahead of Ms Jamaree. When he glanced in his rear-view mirror, he noticed her vehicle had fallen. He immediately returned to assist and called emergency services at 1669. He confirmed that no other vehicles were involved at the time of the incident. Police have taken photographs of the scene and recorded statements from eyewitnesses, who corroborated that the teacher appeared to have lost control on her own. However, officers will continue to examine additional CCTV footage in the area to determine the precise cause of the crash. Ms Jamaree’s body has been transferred to the Institute of Forensic Medicine for an autopsy. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-23.

Missing 73-Year-Old Man Found Dead in Palm Plantation After Two-Day Search Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 73-year-old man who had been missing for two days was found dead in a water channel within an oil palm plantation in Phatthalung province. The discovery followed a family-led search aided by a spiritual medium. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361491-missing-73-year-old-man-found-dead-in-palm-plantation-after-two-day-search/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 73-year-old man who had been missing for two days was found dead in a water channel within an oil palm plantation in Phatthalung province. The discovery followed a family-led search aided by a spiritual medium. On the evening of 21 May, Pol Lt Sommai Kuesuk, Deputy Inspector of Mueang Phatthalung Police Station, received a report of a body found in a waterlogged area in Moo 6, Prang Moo Subdistrict, Mueang District. Rescue officers from Phatthalung were dispatched to the scene. The body, later identified as Mr Phuang Kamsen, was found submerged in a channel approximately two metres deep. His head was just visible above the water’s surface, and his clothing was discovered nearby. Initial examinations conducted by rescue officials revealed no signs of physical assault or injury. It is believed Mr Phuang had been deceased for about 48 hours. According to Mr Pom, the deceased’s 40-year-old nephew, Mr Phuang had gone missing during the night of 19 May. The family realised he was gone the following morning and immediately alerted local authorities and village leaders. Together with community members, they launched a search that lasted throughout the day but ended in vain at nightfall. A formal missing person report was filed with the Mueang Phatthalung Police Station, and rescue teams were again deployed the following day. Mr Phuang’s body was eventually discovered just 200 metres from his residence, in the water channel of a nearby oil palm plantation. Authorities were promptly notified to inspect the scene. Mr Pom added that his grandfather lived alone. His wife would occasionally visit, while his children had long moved to work in other provinces, returning home infrequently. Mr Phuang had recently been unwell and had visited a local hospital before returning home, only to disappear later that night. The family noted that he had exhibited signs of memory loss and dementia. Precautions were taken to look after him, but no one had been present at the time he left the house. Authorities reported no suspicion of foul play, and the body was sent for a routine autopsy before being returned to the family. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-23.

Motorcycle Theft Gang Busted After Stripping & Selling Stolen Bikes to Mae Sot Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Bangkok police have arrested members of a motorcycle theft ring responsible for stealing and dismantling motorbikes for parts, which were then sold in Mae Sot. The arrests followed an intensive surveillance operation after a spate of thefts. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361489-motorcycle-theft-gang-busted-after-stripping-selling-stolen-bikes-to-mae-sot/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Bangkok police have arrested members of a motorcycle theft ring responsible for stealing and dismantling motorbikes for parts, which were then sold in Mae Sot. The arrests followed an intensive surveillance operation after a spate of thefts. On 21 May, Police Lieutenant General Siam Boonsom, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, along with senior officers including Police Major General Nopasin Poolsawat and Police Colonel Naris Prathanaporn, ordered a combined team of investigators from Samran Rat and Prachachuen Police Stations to apprehend the suspects. The operation, led by Police Lieutenant Suwit Lomsak, resulted in the arrest of Mr Somsak, also known as “Ood,” aged 45, and Mr Ting Ko Ko Oo, aged 40. They were caught in Soi Lat Phrao 119, Khlong Chan Subdistrict, Bang Kapi District, Bangkok. Police seized four motorcycles and numerous dismantled parts at the scene. The case began on 24 April, when officers received reports of a stolen motorcycle in the Samran Rat area. CCTV footage showed two men dressed in long-sleeved jackets, jeans, and full-face helmets concealing their identities. They were seen fleeing on the stolen motorcycle toward Soi Lat Phrao 119. Following the trail, police conducted prolonged surveillance in the area, which ultimately led to the arrest of the suspects. During interrogation, both men confessed to a series of nighttime thefts. Their method involved using a sharpened metal tool to force the ignition of targeted motorcycles. Once stolen, the bikes were taken to Soi Nawamin 47, where they were dismantled. The stripped parts were then sent to Mae Sot District in Tak Province for sale. The suspects admitted to having been involved in this criminal operation for an extended period. Both men have been formally charged with night-time thief. They have been handed over to investigators at Samran Rat Police Station for legal proceedings. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-23.

Tanker Crashes in Bangkok, Spilling Over 30 Tonnes of Oil Pictures courtesy of Khaosod. A traffic incident occurred in the early hours of the morning of 22 May, when a tanker carrying over 30 tonnes of Carbon Black Feedstock Oil, overturned on a busy ring road in the capital, spilling its hazardous load and forcing authorities to shut down the highway. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361487-tanker-crashes-in-bangkok-spilling-over-30-tonnes-of-oil/

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod. A traffic incident occurred in the early hours of the morning of 22 May, when a tanker carrying over 30 tonnes of Carbon Black Feedstock Oil, overturned on a busy ring road in the capital, spilling its hazardous load and forcing authorities to shut down the highway. The crash took place at approximately 01:20, on the Kanchanaphisek Ring Road, near kilometre marker 52+900, heading towards Bang Pa-In in the Pravet district of Bangkok. Highway Police Division 2, Subdivision 8, responded to the emergency call and quickly coordinated with highway rescue services and volunteers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation. Upon arrival, officers discovered the tanker, registered in Chonburi had slammed into the central concrete barrier of the six-lane road and overturned. The front of the vehicle was badly damaged, and large quantities of the oil had spilled across the road surface, raising concerns about both environmental damage and hazards to motorists. Emergency crews immediately closed the affected stretch of road to all traffic. Sand was deployed to contain the oil and reduce the risk of further crashes. A large crane was summoned to remove the toppled vehicle. The driver, identified as 25-year-old Mr. Amporn, told police that he had collected the oil from Laem Chabang Port in Chonburi and was en route to Ang Thong province. He admitted to falling asleep at the wheel, which caused him to lose control and veer into the concrete barrier. The impact caused the lorry to flip over, ejecting him from the cab. He sustained facial injuries in the crash. Mr. Amporn was taken to hospital for treatment and will be summoned for further questioning as investigators seek to determine whether any additional factors contributed to the crash. The clean-up operation continued into the morning as officials worked to safely clear the roadway and assess any environmental effects. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-23.

Australian Arrested in Pattaya for Vandalising Rescue Booth While Drunk, Found on Overstay Picture Courtesy of SiamChon News A 51-year-old Australian man has been arrested after allegedly vandalising a rescue booth while intoxicated, in what he claimed was a drunken misunderstanding. He was later found to have overstayed his permission to stay by nearly a year. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361484-australian-arrested-in-pattaya-for-vandalising-rescue-booth-while-drunk-found-on-overstay/

UPDATE on this topic is below, please continue there: Australian Arrested in Pattaya for Vandalising Rescue Booth While Drunk, Found on Overstay

Picture Courtesy of SiamChon News A 51-year-old Australian man has been arrested after allegedly vandalising a rescue booth while intoxicated, in what he claimed was a drunken misunderstanding. He was later found to have overstayed his permission to stay by nearly a year. The suspect, identified as Mr Nathan James Webber, was detained by police on 22 May following an incident two days earlier, when a booth operated by the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation. According to police, Webber was heavily intoxicated at the time. After his motorcycle reportedly broke down near the booth, he heard voices over a two-way radio and mistakenly believed someone was inside. Seeking help, he attempted to enter the booth by forcing the door open, smashing the glass in the process. Once he realised the voices were from a radio and not a person, he fled the scene, leaving behind his motorbike. Tourist Police later located Webber at a property in Soi Najomtien 8 and arrested him at approximately 16:05 on 22 May. He admitted to being the person seen in CCTV footage recorded at the scene. During questioning, Webber explained that he had been heavily intoxicated and confused. Believing there was someone inside the booth who could assist him, he forced his way in. He later encountered some of the foundation’s volunteers but was unable to communicate effectively due to the language barrier and his level of intoxication. A subsequent background check revealed that Webber had overstayed his permission to stay, by 343 days. He will now face charges by Pattaya City Police, before being handed over to immigration, for further actions. Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1361184-cctv-footage-shows-foreign-man-breaking-into-pattaya-rescue-booth/ Adapted by Asean Now from SiamChon 2025-05-23.

School Minibus Overturns in Lopburi, Sending 21 to Hospital Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A school minibus carrying 20 students overturned in Lopburi province on morning of 22 May, leaving 21 individuals with thankfully only minor injuries and shock. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361412-school-minibus-overturns-in-lopburi-sending-21-to-hospital/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A school minibus carrying 20 students overturned in Lopburi province on morning of 22 May, leaving 21 individuals with thankfully only minor injuries and shock. The crash occurred at approximately0 7:30 on Route 2089 (Tha Manow – Sahamuang Thong Junction) in Moo 2, Tha Manow subdistrict, Chai Badan district. Witnesses alerted emergency services after the Toyota minivan, painted blue and registered in Lopburi, struck the central reservation before rolling on its side and sliding along the road.. Emergency responders from a local rescue foundation quickly arrived at the scene and transported all 21 occupants, 20 students and the driver,to Chai Badan Hospital. Most of the injured were classified as “green cases,” indicating that they suffered minor injuries or were primarily in shock. The hospital is examining and assessing the full extent of injuries. Initial investigations suggest the driver lost control of the vehicle prior to the crash, struck and crossed the central reservation, taking down one pole, but was thankfully avoided by overcoming trsffic. Authorities are continuing their inquiries into the cause of the crash. The incident has raised concerns over the safety standards of school transport services in the region. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-20

Motorcyclist Killed in High-Speed Collision with Pickup Truck in Pattaya Pictures courtesy of SiamChon. A road crash occurred in Pattaya on the evening of 21 May, resulting in the death of a 43-year-old motorcyclist after his high-powered motorcycle collided with the rear of a pickup truck. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361404-motorcyclist-killed-in-high-speed-collision-with-pickup-truck-in-pattaya/

Pictures courtesy of SiamChon. A road crash occurred in Pattaya on the evening of 21 May, resulting in the death of a 43-year-old motorcyclist after his high-powered motorcycle collided with the rear of a pickup truck. At approximately 21:00, rescue personnel from the Sawang Boriboon Foundation and officers from Bang Lamung Police Station responded to reports of a serious crash near the entrance of Wat Santikham in Moo 4, Nong Pla Lai subdistrict, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province. Upon arrival, authorities discovered a large crowd gathered at the scene. A man was found dead at the roadside, having sustained severe neck injuries. The victim, later identified as Weerayut Klaihiran, 43, was pronounced dead at the scene, with blood pooling around his body. Nearby, officers located the wreckage of a red Honda CBR 1000 RR motorcycle, registered in Chonburi. The bike, which belonged to the deceased, had been thrown roughly 50 metres into roadside vegetation, close to a local shrine. Also present at the scene was a red Toyota Mighty pickup truck, bearing registration number from Chonburi. The rear of the vehicle showed damage consistent with a high-impact collision. The driver of the pickup was taken into custody for questioning. According to Mr Sitthi Yaemtragoon 25, a friend of the deceased who had been riding alongside him, both men were travelling at approximately 120 km/h en route to visit another friend. Sitthi stated that the pickup truck suddenly pulled out of a side road in an apparent attempt to make a U-turn, leaving the victim with no time to brake, resulting in a rear-end collision. Police have recorded the scene and gathered evidence for further investigation. The pickup driver was taken for questioning and remains under investigation and may face legal charges depending on the outcome of the inquiry. The victim’s body has been taken to Pattamakorn Hospital, where it will be held pending collection by family members. Adapted by Asean Now from SiamChon 2025-05-20

Birthday Party Raid at Pool Villa Leads to Arrest of 55 Youths and Drug Seizure Picture courtesy of Kaoded In an early-morning raid on 22 May, Chonburi provincial police stormed a pool villa in Bang Lamung District and arrested 55 partygoers, including 11 minors, the youngest just 15 years old, in connection with illegal drug use and possession during a birthday party. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361397-birthday-party-raid-at-pool-villa-leads-to-arrest-of-55-youths-and-drug-seizure/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded In an early-morning raid on 22 May, Chonburi provincial police stormed a pool villa in Bang Lamung District and arrested 55 partygoers, including 11 minors, the youngest just 15 years old, in connection with illegal drug use and possession during a birthday party. The operation was led by Pol. Col. Pasakorn Paijit, Superintendent of the Chonburi Provincial Investigation Division, with support from Pol. Lt. Col. Naparuj Jitman, Deputy Superintendent, and other officers from both the investigative unit and Bang Lamung Police Station. The raid was initiated following a tip-off from local residents who reported suspicious gatherings and potential drug activity at the villa in Moo 1, Nong Pla Lai sub-district. Upon arrival, police found several cars and motorbikes parked outside the property. Inside, they encountered dozens of young partygoers drinking and allegedly consuming illegal substances while dancing to loud music. The 55 individuals, were separated by gender, 26 males and 29 females, for police to verify their ages. Eleven of them were minors under the age of 18, including two who were just 15. A thorough search of the premises uncovered significant quantities of illicit substances, including ketamine and ecstasy. Officers discovered drugs hidden behind the television, beside beds and scattered on tables and floors. Transparent zip-lock bags with traces of white powder were also seized as evidence. According to the party attendees, the gathering was organised to celebrate the birthday of a man known as “Sod Pattaya.” He had reportedly rented the pool villa specifically to host the party, as many of the guests were under 20 years old and thus legally barred from entering entertainment venues. All attendees were subjected to drug testing. Results showed that 50 individuals, including most of the minors, tested positive for narcotics, with purple-coloured urine indicating recent drug use. The suspects were taken into custody and handed over to investigators at Bang Lamung Police Station. Legal proceedings are now underway. Police have reiterated their commitment to cracking down on illegal drug use, especially among youth and have urged residents to continue reporting suspicious activity in their communities. Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-05-20

Five-Year-Old Boy Drowns in Temple Pond in Rayong Picture courtesy of Amarin A five-year-old boy drowned after falling into pond, at a temple in Rayong province while his mother briefly took a phone call. The incident occurred at Wat Suwannarangsarit, known locally as “Wat Yai Ra,” in Ban Chang district. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361389-five-year-old-boy-drowns-in-temple-pond-in-rayong/

Picture courtesy of Amarin A five-year-old boy drowned after falling into pond, at a temple in Rayong province while his mother briefly took a phone call. The incident occurred at Wat Suwannarangsarit, known locally as “Wat Yai Ra,” in Ban Chang district. Police Lieutenant Ekalak Kamtan, Deputy Inspector of Ban Chang Police Station, received the distress call at approximately 13:30 on 21 May and responded to the scene along with rescue workers from the Siam Rayong Foundation and medical staff from Ban Chang Hospital. At the rear of the temple, rescuers found the boy’s distraught family, including his inconsolable mother, surrounded by concerned onlookers and temple monks. The boy’s lifeless body was later recovered from the pond, by a coordinated team of rescue workers and monks. According to the mother, she had brought her son to the temple for a walk. While sitting near the well on a marble bench, she received a phone call and momentarily diverted her attention. Her son had been playing with sand nearby. When she turned back, he was gone. She saw one of his shoes beside the pond and feared the worst, immediately calling for help. Despite desperate attempts of CPR by emergency responders, the boy was pronounced dead at the scene. His mother, overwhelmed with grief, was comforted by relatives and temple staff. The family had recently relocated from Nan province, intending to enrol the boy at the local temple school. All paperwork for his admission had been nearly completed. A teacher from the school stated they had been preparing to welcome him as a new student but were now preparing for his funeral instead. Police have confirmed that the family does not suspect foul play. The boy’s body has been sent for a post-mortem examination at Ban Chang Hospital before religious rites are carried out. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-22.