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Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 34-year-old man was killed in the early hours of the morning of 20 May, after his car skidded on spilled pineapples and collided with the rear of a 10-wheeler lorry on the Kanchanaphisek Expressway in Samut Prakan province. The fatal crash occurred at approximately 03:50, near kilometre marker 1+700 on the expressway heading towards Bang Khun Thian toll gate. Police Captain Isarat Tansu, an investigator at Phra Pradaeng Police Station, was alerted to the incident and coordinated a response with volunteers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation and emergency rescue teams equipped with hydraulic rescue tools. At the scene, officers discovered a black Mazda sedan with Bangkok licence plates severely damaged, particularly on the roof and driver’s side. The car’s windscreen and rear window had shattered. Trapped inside the wreckage was the lifeless body of Mr. Chartchai, who was pinned by the crushed door. Rescue workers took 20 minutes to extract the deceased from the wreck. A mobile phone was found on the car floor, while his black shoulder bag contained cash, a wristwatch, and personal documents. Approximately 50 metres from the crash site, police found a grey Isuzu 10-wheeler lorry. The driver, Mr. Boonsong 46, was waiting to speak with police. The vehicle had been struck from behind. Officers documented the scene and planned to review CCTV footage to determine the exact sequence of events. The victim’s body was sent to the Institute of Forensic Medicine at Police General Hospital for autopsy before being released to his family for funeral rites. Preliminary investigation revealed that around 03:30, a white Isuzu articulated lorry registered in Ratchaburi and driven by Mr. Khwanchai 38, had been transporting pineapples. The trailer reportedly became detached and overturned, spilling its load across lanes 1 and 2 of the expressway. Soon after, both the 10-wheeler and the victim’s sedan approached the scene. The Mazda reportedly lost control after skidding on the pineapple remains, veering into the rear of the 10-wheeler and causing the fatal collision. Mr. Boonsong, the 10-wheeler driver, told police he had been transporting animal feed from Phra Samut Chedi to a factory in Saraburi. He said he had just entered the expressway when he saw the overturned trailer ahead and tried to manoeuvre around the debris. Moments later, he heard a loud crash from behind as the sedan slammed into his vehicle. He immediately pulled over and called emergency services. Authorities spent approximately two hours clearing the scene to restore traffic flow. Both lorry drivers were taken to Phra Pradaeng Police Station for further questioning. Legal proceedings are expected to follow pending the outcome of the investigation. Adapted by Asean Now from Khasod 2025-05-21.

Village Official Murders Wife in Jealous Rage with Hammer Blows to the Head Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A village assistant headman has confessed to brutally murdering his wife in a jealous rage on 19 May, just six months after their marriage. The victim was found dead in her bedroom, having suffered multiple fatal blows to the head with a heavy hammer. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361254-village-official-murders-wife-in-jealous-rage-with-hammer-blows-to-the-head/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A village assistant headman has confessed to brutally murdering his wife in a jealous rage on 19 May, just six months after their marriage. The victim was found dead in her bedroom, having suffered multiple fatal blows to the head with a heavy hammer. Police were called to a single-storey home in Dong Chen subdistrict, Phu Kam Yao district, Phayao province, following a report of a suspected homicide. Upon arrival at the scene, officers from Phu Kam Yao Police Station, along with doctors from Phayao Hospital and rescue personnel, discovered the body of a woman identified as Ms Kannika, 32, lying on her right side, on the bed. She was dressed in sleepwear, and her head had suffered extensive trauma. Blood was splattered across the mattress and surrounding walls. A examination revealed that she had been struck four times with a hammer, twice to the forehead and twice to the back of the head, causing fatal skull fractures. The suspect, Mr Sommit 53, an assistant village headman, was found at the scene waiting to surrender. He admitted to the killing, telling police that the couple had been arguing constantly over suspected infidelity since their marriage six months prior. On the night of the incident, a heated argument erupted once again. According to Mr Sommit, his wife insulted his family, causing him to lose control. In a fit of rage, he took a hammer from the corner of the room and struck her on the head while she lay on the bed. “I didn’t plan to kill her. I was blinded by anger. I regret what I’ve done,” he told police during his confession. Police have charged Mr Sommit with homicide. He was taken for a crime scene reenactment before being held for further interrogation. The victim’s body has been sent for a post-mortem examination at the forensic department. Adapted by Asean Now from Khasod 2025-05-21.

Chinese Icebreaker “Xue Long 2” Visits Thailand to Mark Royal Celebration & Bilateral Ties Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Chinese polar research vessel Xue Long 2 , also known as the Snow Dragon 2 , docked at Chuk Samet Pier, Royal Thai Navy Base in Sattahip, Chonburi Province, for an official visit to Thailand from 19–23 May. The visit is part of celebrations marking the 70th birthday of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn and commemorates the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361252-chinese-icebreaker-“xue-long-2”-visits-thailand-to-mark-royal-celebration-bilateral-ties/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Chinese polar research vessel Xue Long 2 , also known as the Snow Dragon 2 , docked at Chuk Samet Pier, Royal Thai Navy Base in Sattahip, Chonburi Province, for an official visit to Thailand from 19–23 May. The visit is part of celebrations marking the 70th birthday of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn and commemorates the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China. Developed entirely by China, Xue Long 2 is one of the world’s most advanced medium-sized icebreakers. The vessel measures 122.5 metres in length and 22.3 metres in width, with a displacement of 13,990 tonnes. It accommodates a crew of 40 and up to 50 scientists on board. Captain Xiao Xueming, commanding officer of the vessel, highlighted its standout capability of icebreaking. The ship can effortlessly cut through ice up to 1.5 metres thick, using a dual-directional propulsion system capable of 2–3 knots in icy waters. Its design enables the bow to climb onto and press down on the ice, facilitating a breakthrough for continued navigation. Xue Long 2 plays a crucial role in China’s polar research programmes, contributing to studies in oceanography, atmospheric science, geophysics, ecosystems, and climate change. It also serves logistical functions, transporting scientists, research equipment, supplies, and fuel to China’s polar research stations. China currently operates several research stations in Antarctica: Great Wall (1985), Zhongshan (1989), Kunlun (2009), Taishan Camp (2014), and Qinling (2024). In the Arctic, the Yellow River Station, established in 2004, supports northern hemisphere research. Xue Long 2 is vital in servicing these remote scientific outposts. The vessel is also equipped with an array of advanced sensors and data systems for scientific exploration, including a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system that significantly reduces engine emissions, a key consideration for operations in ecologically sensitive polar regions. During its Thai visit, the ship will host public outreach activities aimed at fostering interest in polar science and marine research. Events at Chuk Samet Pier from 20–23 May, which will allow the public to engage with the mission firsthand. Additionally, an exhibition titled “Xue Long 2 and See the Unseen in Polar Region” is being held at Siam Paragon in Bangkok from 14–25 May, alongside academic seminars between Thai and Chinese researchers. The visit of Xue Long 2 underscores the role of science as a bridge for international cooperation and offers a valuable opportunity to inspire young Thais interested in global environmental and research issues. Adapted by Asean Now from Khasod 2025-05-21.

Croatian Man Arrested for Running Illegal Tour Business in Chiang Mai Picture courtesy of ThaiRath. A Croatian national has been arrested in Chiang Mai for illegally operating a tour business and working without a permit, in violation of laws protecting local employment and tourism regulations. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361251-croatian-man-arrested-for-running-illegal-tour-business-in-chiang-mai/

Picture courtesy of ThaiRath. A Croatian national has been arrested in Chiang Mai for illegally operating a tour business and working without a permit, in violation of laws protecting local employment and tourism regulations. Acting on the government’s ongoing crackdown on illegal tour operations and unlicensed guides, senior officers from the Tourist Police Bureau, including Police Lieutenant General Saksira Phueka-am, Police Major General Phongsayam Meekhantong, and Police Major General Ekaphop Intwiwat, ordered an investigation that led to the arrest. The suspect, identified as Mr. Andre, a Croatian citizen, had been residing in a condominium in central Chiang Mai. He was reportedly running a tour sales office targeting foreign tourists in the Chang Khlan area, a popular tourist district. Following weeks of surveillance, a joint operation was launched by officers from the 2nd Division of the Tourist Police and officials from the Northern Branch of the Department of Tourism’s Tour and Guide Registration Office, led by Mr. Napadon Awutkampreecha, the regional registrar. Mr. Andre was apprehended and charged with two offences: operating a tour business without a licence and working illegally as a foreign national without a valid work permit. The charges carry a maximum fine of 500,000 baht. Authorities have emphasised that the operation is part of a broader initiative to safeguard Thai jobs in the tourism sector and ensure that all businesses catering to tourists are operating within the bounds of the law. The suspect has been handed over to local police investigators for further legal proceedings. Adapted by Asean Now from ThaiRath 2025-05-21.

Three Rescued, One Dead After Car Plunges Upside-Down into Canal in Samut Sakhon Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A dramatic rescue unfolded in Samut Sakhon on the afternoon of 19 May, when a car carrying four people overturned as it plunged into a canal, leaving three survivors and one fatality despite heroic efforts from police officers and local residents. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361250-three-rescued-one-dead-after-car-plunges-upside-down-into-canal-in-samut-sakhon/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A dramatic rescue unfolded in Samut Sakhon on the afternoon of 19 May, when a car carrying four people overturned as it plunged into a canal, leaving three survivors and one fatality despite heroic efforts from police officers and local residents. The incident occurred at approximately 13:30 on the Ban Phaeo–Yokkrabat Road in Moo 7, Lak Sam Subdistrict, Ban Phaeo District. Police Sub-Lieutenant Chaiyawat Thiammekha, an investigator at Ban Phaeo Police Station, received the emergency call and dispatched patrol units and rescue personnel from the Samut Sakhon Charity Foundation to the scene. Emergency responders arrived to find a white Toyota sedan (registration from Bangkok) overturned and submerged in the canal. Bystanders were already in the water attempting to rescue the vehicle’s occupants. Three police officers, Deputy Inspector Khamrop Khanta, Deputy Sub-Inspector Thosaphol Onnim and Police Sergeant Manat Kimheng, immediately jumped into the water, joining over ten civilians in the rescue effort. They managed to pull three individuals from the vehicle, all of whom were semi-conscious and suffering from water inhalation. However, a fourth occupant remained trapped inside. After a tense 15-minute struggle, the final victim was recovered unconscious. Medics from the Lak Sam Health Centre performed CPR at the scene before transferring the individual to Ban Phaeo Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Speaking after the rescue, Deputy Sub-Inspector Thosaphol stated: “In that moment, we didn’t think twice. We knew someone was still trapped, and we just acted. Every life matters.” Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash. CCTV footage from nearby locations is being reviewed, and statements are being taken from the surviving victims. Adapted by Asean Now from Khasod 2025-05-21.

Quick-Thinking M6 Students Save Fellow Student with CPR Picture courtesy of Workpoint. Three students at Surathampitak School in Nakhon Ratchasima have been widely praised for their composure after successfully reviving a fellow student whose heart had suddenly stopped during a lesson. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361249-quick-thinking-m6-students-save-fellow-student-with-cpr/

Picture courtesy of Workpoint. Three students at Surathampitak School in Nakhon Ratchasima have been widely praised for their composure after successfully reviving a fellow student whose heart had suddenly stopped during a lesson. The incident took place at 09:00 on 19 May, when a male Mathayom 3 student collapsed unconscious in his classroom. Witnesses described the boy as having no pulse, yellowing eyes, and frothing at the mouth. Classmates quickly alerted staff, while three nearby Mathayom 6 students, Jirapat Srisawang (Tonkla), Kittiphop Khaisai (Prite), and Rattaphoom Khajornsathit (Poon) — rushed to assist. The trio retrieved an oxygen cylinder from the school’s first aid room and took turns performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for over 20 minutes. Thanks to their quick action and persistence, the student eventually regained signs of life, after responders arrived to assist with an AED, automated external defibrillator. He was later transferred safely to Suranaree Camp Hospital, where he remains under close medical supervision but is now in a stable condition. All three rescuers revealed they had received basic life support training and serve as volunteer first responders in their local area. They expressed pride in being able to put their skills into practice and save a life. Mr. Sarawut Chaemmuangpak, the school’s director, commended the students’ bravery and responsibility. He emphasised the importance of first aid education, particularly CPR training, which the school provides regularly. To honour their actions, the school awarded each student a certificate of commendation. The story has since gone viral on Thai social media, with thousands praising the students for their courage and calmness under pressure. The incident has also sparked renewed public interest in CPR training, with many calling for greater access to life-saving education across all age groups and communities. “This proves that emergencies can happen at any time, and knowing CPR can truly be the difference between life and death,” Mr. Sarawut added. Adapted by Asean Now from Workpoint 2025-05-21.

Fire Breaks Out at Prominent School in Bangkok’s Nong Chok District Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A fire broke out on the morning of 20 May, at a well-known school in Bangkok’s Nong Chok district, causing an evacuation of teachers and students as thick smoke was seen billowing from the upper floors of the building. Emergency services were able to bring the blaze under control without reports of injury. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361248-fire-breaks-out-at-prominent-school-in-bangkok’s-nong-chok-district/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A fire broke out on the morning of 20 May, at a well-known school in Bangkok’s Nong Chok district, causing an evacuation of teachers and students as thick smoke was seen billowing from the upper floors of the building. Emergency services were able to bring the blaze under control without reports of injury. At approximately 09:00, the Bangkok Fire and Rescue Department received a report via the emergency hotline 199 about a fire at Wat Nong Chok School, located on Liap Wari Road in Krathum Rai subdistrict. Fire crews from the Nong Chok Fire Station were immediately dispatched to the scene and arrived at 09:06. The fire was located on the third floor of a three-storey school building. Large plumes of smoke were visible from a distance, sparking concern among staff and students. Picture from responders. Authorities confirmed that no one was trapped inside the building at the time of the incident. Teachers and students had already evacuated to safety as fire crews moved in to extinguish the blaze. Firefighters quickly managed to bring the fire under control, and smoke levels began to subside. Officials are investigating the cause of the fire and assessing the extent of the damage. No injuries have been reported. The school is remained closed for the remainder of the day as safety inspections continue. Adapted by Asean Now from Khasod 2025-05-21.

Lorry Driver Dozes Off, Crashes into Vehicles at Red Light, 1 Dead, 3 Seriously Injured Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A road crash occurred in Phang Nga province when a drowsy 18-wheeler lorry driver ploughed into stationary vehicles waiting at a red light, resulting in one fatality and three others seriously injured. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361246-lorry-driver-dozes-off-crashes-into-vehicles-at-red-light-1-dead-3-seriously-injured/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A road crash occurred in Phang Nga province when a drowsy 18-wheeler lorry driver ploughed into stationary vehicles waiting at a red light, resulting in one fatality and three others seriously injured. Pol. Lt. Col. Ekkaphop Phuthong, Deputy Inspector of Takua Thung Police Station, received a report of a serious collision involving a trailer truck and several cars at the red-light junction in Ban Kalai, along Phetkasem Road at kilometre marker 859+100. Emergency responders, including local disaster prevention officials and a rescue unit from Wat Kao Charoen Tham Foundation, were dispatched to the scene. At the site, officers discovered a white Isuzu 18-wheel lorry, registration from Surat Thani, with extensive front-end damage. Just ahead lay a mangled black Nissan March sedan, its rear crushed and the car compacted. Nearby, a pickup truck loaded with baby prawns was also found damaged at the rear. Initial investigations revealed that the pickup truck was stationary at the traffic light, heading towards Phang Nga. Behind it was the ill-fated Nissan March, carrying four occupants, two men and two women. While the vehicles were halted at the red light, the lorry, reportedly travelling at high speed and showing no signs of braking, slammed into the rear of the sedan. The force of the impact propelled the Nissan into the pickup truck, scattering debris across the junction. Rescue workers used hydraulic cutting tools to free the trapped passengers from the wreckage of the Nissan March. All four were rushed to Takua Thung Hospital in critical condition. Sadly, the male driver of the Nissan succumbed to his injuries. Authorities suspect the lorry driver fell asleep at the wheel. He is currently in custody and will be charged with reckless driving causing death and injury. Adapted by Asean Now from Khasod 2025-05-21.

UPDATE Construction Worker Declared Dead After 19-Metre Fall at Bangkok Rail Site Picture courtesy of Amarin. The incident occurred at a construction site for Bangkok’s Orange Line mass transit project yesterday when a 33-year-old worker fell into a 19-metre-deep shaft and became trapped beneath a landslide of soil and floodwater. Authorities have now confirmed the incident is no longer a rescue. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361072-construction-worker-trapped-after-falling-into-deep-pit-at-bangkok-subway-site/#findComment-19812625

UPDATE Construction Worker Declared Dead After 19-Metre Fall at Bangkok Rail Site Picture courtesy of Amarin. The incident occurred at a construction site for Bangkok’s Orange Line mass transit project yesterday when a 33-year-old worker fell into a 19-metre-deep shaft and became trapped beneath a landslide of soil and floodwater. Authorities have now confirmed the incident is no longer a rescue. The victim, identified as Mr. Sarawut Chantasorn, known to colleagues as “Dao,” was a construction worker from Sisaket province. He was working on the Lan Luang Station (OR06) site — part of the Orange Line extension between Bang Khun Non and the Thailand Cultural Centre, when the accident occurred at approximately 13:00 on 19 May. The site is located near Soi Lan Luang 8 in Pom Prap Sattru Phai district. Initial reports indicate that the victim fell into a foundation pile shaft. Moments later, the soil around the shaft gave way, compounded by flooding from a burst water pipe, burying the man beneath heavy layers of wet, compacted earth. Emergency crews worked tirelessly through the night and into the following day, using excavators and hand tools to dig through the clay soil. Sheet piles were installed on all four sides of the excavation site to prevent further soil collapse. Authorities estimate they have managed to dig down to around 10 metres. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt was on site along with representatives from the Royal Thai Police, the State Railway of Thailand, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), and other municipal agencies. Mr. Suriyachai Rawiwann, Director of the Bangkok DDPM, confirmed on the afternoon of 20 May, that there was no longer any hope of survival. “Given the conditions, the depth, the soil compaction, and water intrusion, it is highly unlikely that any air pockets remained. All signs point to the victim’s death,” Mr. Suriyachai said. Efforts to recover the body are continuing. Officials have constructed a steel box casing around the shaft to further stabilise the area and are preparing to drill a parallel borehole to redirect soil and aid in the recovery effort. They estimate the body may be located between 15 and 16 metres below the surface and hope to complete the operation before nightfall on 20 May. The cause of the incident is now under investigation. Preliminary assessments suggest that the collapse occurred at the site of a pile boring operation, where a pipe burst led to unexpected flooding. This, combined with unstable soil conditions, is believed to have triggered the fatal fall and subsequent burial. Legal teams and safety officials are to conduct a full inquiry in the coming days. Governor Chadchart acknowledged the dangers posed by the site and said the rescue crews must proceed with extreme caution. “We can only dig with machinery to a depth of about 10 metres due to risks to nearby infrastructure such as buildings and power poles. Beyond that, manual excavation is required,” he said. The victim’s family has been assisted to the scene and is receiving support from the relevant authorities. The State Railway of Thailand has pledged to provide full compensation and further assistance to the bereaved. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-20.

This is the CCTV footage of the incident.

UPDATE Search Continues for Worker Trapped in Shaft at Bangkok Orange Line Construction Site Picture form responders. More than 23 hours have passed since a construction worker fell into a 19-metre-deep pile shaft at the site of the future Lan Luang Station, part of Bangkok’s Orange Line rail extension project. Despite intensive rescue operations and the deployment of heavy machinery, authorities have yet to locate the missing worker. The victim, 33-year-old Mr Sarawut Chantasorn, also known as “Dao”, from Si Sa Ket province, was working at the OR06 construction site—Lan Luang Station, when the ground beneath him collapsed on 19 May. The incident occurred near Soi Lan Luang 8 in the Pom Prap Sattru Phai district. Officials from the Bangkok Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), including Anuwat Onnuam, Director of Operation Centre 1; Phuchaphong Sanyachote, Director of Operation Centre 3; and Pornpoj Rueannil, Chief of the Phukhao Thong Disaster Prevention Unit, held an emergency operations meeting during the morning of 20 May, to discuss the situation. Rescue workers on site have been using heavy-duty cranes and backhoes to dig through the debris and shore in the shaft. Their target is to excavate a total of 15 metres, the estimated location of Mr Sarawut’s body, believed to be buried beneath collapsed concrete and soil debris, likely around the area of the material suction unit used during the construction process. Authorities stated that the operation is being carried out with extreme care to avoid causing further harm to the trapped worker. “Our efforts are focused on using all available tools and techniques as cautiously as possible, to avoid impacting the body of the victim,” said a DDPM representative. Time is now a critical factor. Rescuers are operating within a hopeful 72-hour window, after which the likelihood of a successful recovery is unlikely. The team is adjusting its strategy by repositioning the backhoe to improve the drilling angle, hoping it will lead them more directly to the area of entrapment. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-20.

Foreign Motorcyclist Crashes in Patong, Two Critically Injured in Early Morning Crash An early morning traffic crash in Phuket, on 20 May, has left two individuals critically injured after a high-speed motorcycle crash involving a foreign rider and passenger. The incident occurred at approximately 07:40 near the entrance of Soi Phra Baramee 5 on Phra Baramee Road in Patong. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361188-foreign-motorcyclist-crashes-in-patong-two-critically-injured-in-early-morning-crash/

Picture from responders. An early morning traffic crash in Phuket, on 20 May, has left two individuals critically injured after a high-speed motorcycle crash involving a foreign rider and passenger. The incident occurred at approximately 07:40 near the entrance of Soi Phra Baramee 5 on Phra Baramee Road in Patong. According to reports from Pol. Lt. Surachart Thongyai, an investigator with Patong Police Station, the motorbike, allegedly driven at high speed by a foreign national, initially clipped a van before speeding away, losing control and veering into the path of an oncoming SUV. The collision left both the rider and a pillion passenger unconscious, lying in the middle of the road with serious injuries. Eyewitnesses at the scene described the motorbike travelling at a reckless speed moments before the crash. The vehicle reportedly grazed the van and then attempted to flee the scene, only to lose control at a curve and crash directly into the SUV. The impact caused significant damage and resulted in both motorcycle occupants being thrown onto the road. Emergency medical teams quickly arrived and provided on-site treatment before transferring the victims to a nearby hospital. Both individuals were unconscious and were described as in a serious condition. Police have launched an investigation into the incident and are working to determine the full sequence of events. It remains unclear whether the motorcyclist was under the influence of anything or if any mechanical failure contributed to the crash. Authorities are also seeking to confirm the identity of the foreign national involved and are urging any witnesses to come forward with additional information. Adapted by Asean Now 2025-05-20.

CCTV Footage Shows Foreign Man Breaking into Pattaya Rescue Booth Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A foreign man, described as tall and powerfully built, has been caught on CCTV breaking into a volunteer rescue booth in Pattaya and damaging essential medical equipment, according to police and eyewitness reports. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361184-cctv-footage-shows-foreign-man-breaking-into-pattaya-rescue-booth/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A foreign man, described as tall and powerfully built, has been caught on CCTV breaking into a volunteer rescue booth in Pattaya and damaging essential medical equipment, according to police and eyewitness reports. The incident occurred around 21.00 on 19 May at the Sawang Boriboon Rescue Foundation’s Chaiyaphruek outpost, located on Sukhumvit Road, Moo 12, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi. Mr Thawin Siangkong, a 21-year-old volunteer with the foundation, filed a report with Pol. Lt. Buddharak Sonkamhan of Pattaya City Police in the early hours of 20 May, submitting both CCTV footage and a list of damaged property as evidence. The footage reportedly shows a western male prising open the booth’s sliding glass door and rifling through the interior. Items damaged include a power converter, used in emergency defibrillator kits and the booth’s main entrance, which was left cracked and damaged. Mr Thawin told reporters that the volunteers had been dispatched to a road crash at the time of the break-in. Upon returning, they found the glass door broken and the booth ransacked. A review of the CCTV footage revealed the suspect forcing entry and rummaging through the contents. In a surprising twist, the same man allegedly returned to the scene later that night. Volunteers confronted him, but he claimed to have no knowledge of the incident and refused to acknowledge the footage when shown and left the area. “We asked him to look at the CCTV, but he denied everything,” said Mr Thawin. “We couldn’t do anything more, so we reported it to the police.” The volunteer also expressed deep frustration with the situation. “We don’t get paid. We sacrifice our time to help the community, and now we might have to cover the cost of the damage ourselves. It’s disheartening.” The suspect’s identity and nationality remain unknown. Police are currently reviewing the CCTV evidence and are seeking to track down the individual involved. Authorities have urged anyone with relevant information to come forward, while volunteers continue their duties despite the setback. Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-05-20.

Missing 10-Year-Old Boy Found Drowned in Temple Pond in Nakhon Si Thammarat Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 10-year-old boy who went missing overnight was found dead on the morning of 19 May, in a pond outside a temple, sending shockwaves through the local community. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1361154-missing-10-year-old-boy-found-drowned-in-temple-pond-in-nakhon-si-thammarat/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 10-year-old boy who went missing overnight was found dead on the morning of 19 May, in a pond outside a temple, sending shockwaves through the local community. Police in Phra Phrom district confirmed the discovery of the body of the child, known as “Fan”, a special needs student at the Nakhon Si Thammarat Special Education Centre. His body was found floating face down in a pond in front of Wat Sakhu Tai, Moo 3, Chang Sai Subdistrict. The tragic discovery was made around 11:30 by one of Fan’s teachers, who had been handing out flyers to locals and monks at the temple to aid in the search. Upon leaving the temple grounds, the teacher spotted the boy’s lifeless body near the edge of the water and immediately alerted authorities. Rescue workers and police, led by Pol. Lt. Anan Boonphet of Phra Phrom Police Station, along with medical staff and a local foundation team, recovered the child’s body. No signs of physical assault or injury were found, suggesting accidental drowning. Fan had been missing since the evening of 18 May. His mother, Ms. Pooncharasmith, 41, said she finished work at around 22:00 and noticed he wasn’t home. Seeing that his shoes were also gone, she feared he had wandered off again. He had reportedly gone missing on several previous occasions but was usually found within minutes. On this occasion, CCTV footage from the local Subdistrict Administrative Organisation (SAO) showed him walking past a road near Wat Sakhu Tai at 21:26. This prompted family members and local residents to begin an urgent search, which continued into the early hours of the morning. The boy’s disappearance was officially reported to Phra Phrom police. Speaking through tears, Ms. Pooncharasmith said the temple, located approximately two kilometres from their home, was familiar to Fan, who had previously visited to make merit and attend community events. “I never imagined it would end like this,” she said. Police believe that the child may have fallen into the large, unlit pond during the night. The water is said to be three to five metres deep in places. With no signs of foul play, the family did not request a further investigation and have since taken custody of the body for funeral rites. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-20.