Georgealbert

Italian-Thai Development Posts Nearly 3 Billion Baht Loss in Q1 as Revenues Plummet Picture courtesy of Matichon. Italian-Thai Development Public Company Limited (ITD), Thailand’s largest construction firm, reported a dramatic downturn in performance for the first quarter of 2025, with revenues nearly halved and a net loss approaching 3 billion baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360945-italian-thai-development-posts-nearly-3-billion-baht-loss-in-q1-as-revenues-plummet/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Italian-Thai Development Public Company Limited (ITD), Thailand’s largest construction firm, reported a dramatic downturn in performance for the first quarter of 2025, with revenues nearly halved and a net loss approaching 3 billion baht. According to the company’s filing with the Stock Exchange of Thailand, ITD’s consolidated revenue from construction services for the three-month period ending 31 March 2025 stood at just 5.096 billion baht. This represents a steep drop of over 11.8 billion baht compared to the same period last year. The sharp revenue decline was primarily attributed to the cessation of revenue recognition from a foreign subsidiary that has since been reclassified as an asset held for sale. Additionally, income from several domestic infrastructure projects, such as building construction, railway systems, ports, and drainage canals, also fell significantly. However, revenue from sales and services rose slightly to 1.744 billion baht, up 117 million baht year-on-year. The increase was largely driven by higher income from mining-related services. On the cost side, ITD reported a reduction in construction service costs to 7.967 billion baht, down by 7.6 billion baht from the previous year, also due to the reclassification of the aforementioned foreign subsidiary. Conversely, costs for sales and services increased to 1.822 billion baht, a rise of 175 million baht, reflecting higher mining service costs and increased expenses at certain subsidiaries. The company posted a gross loss of 2.949 billion baht, compared to a gross profit of 1.36 billion baht in Q1 last year. The gross loss margin stood at 43.11%, a significant reversal from the 7.31% gross profit margin recorded in the same quarter of 2024. ITD cited increased losses from major projects, particularly in railway systems, building construction, ports, and industrial facilities, as key factors, along with the elimination of gross profit recognition from the reclassified foreign subsidiary. The company has not yet declared any dividends for the period, and further financial impacts may follow depending on the outcome of ongoing project performance and asset divestment plans. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-18.

Malaysian Tourists Cause Uproar in Hat Yai with Noisy Midnight Street Racing Picture courtesy of Matichon. Local residents in Hat Yai, have voiced outrage after a group of Malaysian-registered cars disrupted the peace with high-speed driving and deafening exhaust noises through city streets during the early hours of 17 May. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360944-malaysian-tourists-cause-uproar-in-hat-yai-with-noisy-midnight-street-racing/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Local residents in Hat Yai, have voiced outrage after a group of Malaysian-registered cars disrupted the peace with high-speed driving and deafening exhaust noises through city streets during the early hours of 17 May. According to eyewitnesses and complaints from locals, the group of modified sedans began causing disturbances around midnight on 16 May. Residents of Ban Rai and Khlong Pom subdistricts in Hat Yai reported that the cars raced along Kanchanavanich Road at high speed, producing thunderous exhaust noise and disturbing the entire neighbourhood. Later, more reports emerged from the Kho Hong area of similar scenes. Eyewitnesses described the vehicles forming rows across the road, three cars per row, blocking traffic as they drove slowly and then suddenly revved their engines, creating a deafening roar that forced residents from their sleep. At approximately 91:25 on 17 May, local reporters at the scene near Greenway Market in Kho Hong confirmed the presence of six Malaysian-registered cars driving in formation on the outbound lane from central Hat Yai. The modified vehicles, fitted with loud exhaust systems, drove up and down the road in repeated laps, before parking briefly at the roadside and then continuing on Sri Phuwanat Road. The group, believed to be tourists visiting Thailand during the weekend, has drawn sharp criticism for treating public roads as their personal racetrack. Frustrated residents condemned the reckless behaviour, which they said has become increasingly common. Tourist police are currently reviewing CCTV footage along the affected routes in an effort to identify and prosecute those responsible. Authorities are also coordinating with relevant agencies to enforce stricter controls and prevent a repeat of such disruptive behaviour in the future. Local officials have urged visiting motorists to respect Thai laws and community wellbeing, emphasising that public roads are not playgrounds for dangerous or inconsiderate driving. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-18.

Deadly Land Dispute: Woman 35, Kills Elderly Neighbour in Chaiyaphum Picture courtesy of Khaosod A long-standing land dispute turned deadly in Chaiyaphum province on the evening of 16 May, when a 35-year-old woman allegedly bludgeoned her 61-year-old neighbour to death with a wooden club during a heated altercation outside her home. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360943-deadly-land-dispute-woman-35-kills-elderly-neighbour-in-chaiyaphum/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod A long-standing land dispute turned deadly in Chaiyaphum province on the evening of 16 May, when a 35-year-old woman allegedly bludgeoned her 61-year-old neighbour to death with a wooden club during a heated altercation outside her home. Police from Ban Duea Station, led by Pol. Col. Krit Seneewong Na Ayutthaya, responded to an emergency call reporting a fatal assault at house number 106 in Moo 7, Non Kok subdistrict, Kaset Sombun district. Upon arrival, officers found the lifeless body of Mr. Thongpon Noksara lying face down in a pool of blood in the middle of the road. The victim had suffered severe head injuries believed to have been inflicted by a blunt object. Nearby, police discovered a fallen motorbike, a handgun lying beside the deceased and a wooden club, thought to be the murder weapon. Ms. Mulan Wonghan, 35, who owns the house at the scene, was waiting to surrender to authorities. She told officers that she and Mr. Thongpon had a history of conflict related to a land ownership dispute. She claimed that the victim had previously threatened her with a firearm and had come to her home again on the day of the incident carrying a gun. According to her statement, Mr. Thongpon initially confronted her at her home, prompting her to flee. However, he allegedly returned shortly afterwards on a motorbike, pursuing her. In fear for her life, Ms. Mulan said she grabbed a wooden stick nearby and struck him on the head multiple times, causing him to collapse. Police took Ms. Mulan into custody and charged her with murder. The victim’s body has been sent to Chaiyaphum Hospital for a post-mortem examination before being released to his family. Authorities continue to investigate the case, including reviewing the history of threats and the role the recovered firearm may have played in the deadly confrontation. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-18.

Free Rides on Pink Line Extension to Muang Thong Thani Begin 20 May Picture courtesy of The Standard. The Ministry of Transport has announced that commuters will be able to enjoy free trial rides on the new extension of the MRT Pink Line from Si Rat Station to Muang Thong Thani starting 20 May until 16 June 2025. The move aims to ease traffic congestion in the area and improve access to major events and concerts at IMPACT Arena. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360942-free-rides-on-pink-line-extension-to-muang-thong-thani-begin-20-may/

Picture courtesy of The Standard. The Ministry of Transport has announced that commuters will be able to enjoy free trial rides on the new extension of the MRT Pink Line from Si Rat Station to Muang Thong Thani starting 20 May until 16 June 2025. The move aims to ease traffic congestion in the area and improve access to major events and concerts at IMPACT Arena. Deputy Transport Minister Surapong Piyachote inspected the readiness of the extension today at Muang Thong Thani Station (PK10). He said the new segment, operated by the Mass Rapid Transit Authority of Thailand (MRTA), will enhance public transport efficiency in Bangkok and its suburbs while encouraging people to shift from private cars to more eco-friendly options. The extension features two new stations: • IMPACT Muang Thong Thani (MT01) • Muang Thong Thani Lake (MT02) The free trial period will run until 16 June, after which normal fares will apply starting 17 June. Ticket prices for the Pink Line range from 15 to 45 baht, depending on distance. According to Surapong, the new stations will significantly improve access to key destinations such as IMPACT Arena and the city centre. The extension is expected to reduce traffic congestion along Chaeng Watthana Road and nearby areas. The new service will be especially useful during major events such as THAIFEX – Anuga Asia 2025later this month, and future concerts at IMPACT. From MT01 Station, commuters can reach IMPACT Challenger Hall via Exit 3 and a new Sky Entrance, offering seamless access to the arena. Operating Hours: • Monday to Friday: 06:00 – 22:00 • Weekends and public holidays: 06:00 – 23:30 Train Frequency: Every 10 minutes Station Connectivity IMPACT Muang Thong Thani Station (MT01): • Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University (Exit 1) • Wat Phasuk Maneechak School (Exit 2) • IMPACT Arena (Exit 3) • Chaeng Watthana–Pak Kret Soi 39 (Exit 4) Muang Thong Thani Lake Station (MT02): • Muang Thong Thani Lake (Exit 1) • Chaeng Watthana–Pak Kret Soi 39 (Exit 2) • Somdet Phra Srinagarindra Park (Exit 3) • IMPACT Arena (Exit 4) The Pink Line extension is part of the government’s broader strategy to expand mass transit infrastructure and promote sustainable urban mobility across Bangkok. Adapted by Asean Now from The Standars 2025-05-18.

Prominent Meditation Centre Under Investigation for Encroachment Picture courtesy of Khaosod. All current and former chiefs of Khao Laem National Park are facing investigation after authorities uncovered a large-scale illegal development by an unregistered meditation centre operating within protected forest land in Sangkhla Buri District, Kanchanaburi. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360927-prominent-meditation-centre-under-investigation-for-encroachment/

EGAT Floating Solar Project at Vajiralongkorn Dam Bidding Open Until June 20 Picture courtesy of kaoded. The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is forging ahead with its ambitious plan to develop floating solar power plants, launching the first phase of a 50-megawatt, floating solar project at Vajiralongkorn Dam in Kanchanaburi Province. The bidding process for interested contractors is now officially open and will run until 20 June. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360926-egat-floating-solar-project-at-vajiralongkorn-dam-bidding-open-until-june-20/

Koh Lanta: Mentally Ill Woman Found Murdered in Palm Plantation Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 23-year-old woman suffering from mental illness was found brutally murdered in a palm plantation on Koh Lanta, prompting a police investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360925-koh-lanta-mentally-ill-woman-found-murdered-in-palm-plantation/

Royal Thai Police Partners with Meta to Enhance Online Safety in Thailand Picture courtesy of CIB In a major step toward bolstering digital safety, Meta has announced a strategic partnership with the Royal Thai Police’s Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) and key stakeholders from across Thailand. The collaboration aims to strengthen online fraud prevention and promote a secure and sustainable digital environment for Thai users. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360924-royal-thai-police-partners-with-meta-to-enhance-online-safety-in-thailand/

Man Kills Village Shaman with Machete over Black Magic Fears Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A brutal murder has shocked a remote village in Tak, after a man suffering hallucinations allegedly killed a local shaman he believed had cursed his young nephew. The suspect reportedly attacked the 62-year-old victim with a machete, inflicting more than 20 wounds, before dragging the body to a nearby stream and concealing it with banana trees and leaves. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360923-man-kills-village-shaman-with-machete-over-black-magic-fears/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. All current and former chiefs of Khao Laem National Park are facing investigation after authorities uncovered a large-scale illegal development by an unregistered meditation centre operating within protected forest land in Sangkhla Buri District, Kanchanaburi. The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) released images showing extensive construction underway at the site, which they later confirmed to be part of the Dhamma Kanchana Vipassana Centre. Officials found at least 24 permanent structures erected without permission, alongside evidence of illegal logging and forest clearance. Satellite coordinates confirmed the entire 15-rai area to be within the boundaries of Khao Laem National Park. The area had not been registered or surveyed under Section 64 of the National Park Act, rendering all development illegal. Authorities discovered multiple felled logs from protected tree species, including mai daeng (Xylia xylocarpa) and makha (Afzelia xylocarpa). Heavy machinery and construction vehicles, such as a concrete mixer, crane, backhoe, and six-wheeled truck, were seized from the site. A woman identified only as Rungarun, who claimed to serve as a document officer for the centre, was present at the scene. She produced a registration form from a private foundation but failed to present any legal documentation for land ownership or building permission. The Dhamma Kanchana centre had reportedly been operating as a private retreat, accepting online bookings. Its ownership and sources of funding remain unclear. Officials allege that the centre began as a small meditation shelter and gradually expanded into a significant illegal development. Park Chief Dome Chansuwan, who assumed his position six months ago, stated that he acted immediately upon receiving a public tip-off. He said the crackdown followed clear instructions from DNP Director-General Athapol Charoenshunsa to take decisive action against encroachment and illegal logging in protected areas. Athapol confirmed that a total of seven criminal charges have been filed with Sangkhla Buri Police, including: • Illegal encroachment and land clearance within a national park • Destruction and removal of natural resources from a protected area • Unauthorised use of national reserved forest land • Felling of protected tree species without a permit • Damaging forest ecosystems for personal gain • Possession of unmarked protected timber • Possession and use of an unlicensed chainsaw The department has also mobilised additional personnel from nearby national parks, Thong Pha Phum and Lam Khlong Ngu, to conduct further inspection and gather evidence. The case has sparked public concern due to the scale of deforestation in one of Thailand’s most ecologically significant forest reserves. Khao Laem National Park is home to diverse wildlife and is a crucial watershed area in the region. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-18.

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 23-year-old woman suffering from mental illness was found brutally murdered in a palm plantation on Koh Lanta, prompting a police investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death. Pol. Lt. Chokdee Phetduang, an investigator with Koh Lanta Police Station, received a report of a female body discovered in a plantation in Moo 1, Koh Lanta Noi subdistrict. He immediately proceeded to the scene with forensic officers and local investigators. At the crime scene, officers found the body of Miss Krisana “Min” Manpian, lying face down near an abandoned hut in a small palm grove. The victim had sustained multiple machete wounds to the face, back of the head, and right wrist. Officials estimate she had been dead for approximately four to five hours. The body was sent to Koh Lanta Hospital for autopsy, after which it was released to the family. According to relatives, the victim had a history of psychiatric illness and was staying with her father, whose house is located around 800 metres from the murder site. She was last seen alive in the evening, walking around the village. At approximately 20:00 on 16 May, her niece invited her for dinner at a neighbouring house. Before leaving to buy food, the niece asked if Krisana wanted anything. She declined. When the niece returned, Krisana was no longer at the house and the doors were closed, leading the family to believe she had gone to bed. Early the next morning, villagers were horrified to find her body in the palm grove. Police believe the suspect was someone familiar with the victim, possibly luring her to the abandoned hut. A local rubber tapper working nearby reported hearing the woman scream for help at around 04:00, although no other voices were heard. Officers are now reviewing CCTV footage from village roads and nearby areas in an attempt to track the victim’s movements and identify the perpetrator. Efforts to gather more information have been hampered by the mental condition of both the victim’s father and limited witnesses. Investigators have vowed to bring the killer to justice swiftly. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-18.

Picture courtesy of kaoded. The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) is forging ahead with its ambitious plan to develop floating solar power plants, launching the first phase of a 50-megawatt, floating solar project at Vajiralongkorn Dam in Kanchanaburi Province. The bidding process for interested contractors is now officially open and will run until 20 June. The initiative is part of EGAT’s broader strategy to increase the share of clean energy in Thailand’s power generation mix and advance its commitment to carbon neutrality by 2050 and net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2065. Mr. Thidet Eiamsai, Deputy Governor for Power Plant Development and Renewable Energy at EGAT, said that this floating solar installation will produce electricity from photovoltaic panels mounted on floating platforms across the dam’s reservoir. This project, referred to as Vajiralongkorn Floating Solar Power Plant Phase 1, is expected to begin commercial operation by 2027. The development is part of Thailand’s Power Development Plan 2018–2037 (PDP2018 Revision 1) and its forthcoming updated energy roadmap. Under this plan, EGAT aims to deploy a total of 2,725 MW of floating solar power capacity nationwide by 2030. These projects will be built on the surface of EGAT-managed reservoirs across the country, leveraging existing hydropower infrastructure to minimise costs and optimise energy output. This hybrid model, integrating solar with existing hydroelectric facilities, offers cost-effective power generation with reduced environmental impact. By using shared infrastructure and available water surfaces, EGAT can significantly lower production costs, which in turn benefits consumers with more affordable electricity. EGAT’s floating solar initiative is also expected to stimulate private sector participation in Thailand’s clean energy transition. Interested companies can purchase bidding documents from now until 20 June 2025, with the envelope opening scheduled for 16 September 2025. For more information and detailed procurement documentation, visit EGAT’s official bidding portal: https://www4.egat.co.th/fprocurement/biddingeng/main/3644 Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-05-18.

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A brutal murder has shocked a remote village in Tak, after a man suffering hallucinations allegedly killed a local shaman he believed had cursed his young nephew. The suspect reportedly attacked the 62-year-old victim with a machete, inflicting more than 20 wounds, before dragging the body to a nearby stream and concealing it with banana trees and leaves. Police from Tha Song Yang station in Tak province were alerted after villagers discovered the body in a stream approximately 50 metres behind the victim’s house in Moo 3, Mae Tan subdistrict. Rescue workers from Phetkasem Foundation and forensic officials arrived at the scene to find the body of a local man, covered with foliage in an apparent attempt to hide the crime. The deceased had deep lacerations to his forehead, head, and body, consistent with a frenzied machete attack. Villagers told investigators that the victim had last been seen drinking alcohol with 49-year-old Mr. Pharnulee, a fellow resident and friend. A manhunt was launched, and officers located Mr. Pharnulee in a neighbouring village 3 kilometres away, where he had reportedly fled and was seen asking locals for food. He was taken into custody for questioning. According to police, Mr. Pharnulee confessed to the killing. He claimed that while drinking with the victim, he became convinced the man, who was known locally as a shaman, had cast a black magic spell that caused the recent death of his one-year-old nephew. In a paranoid and delusional state, he attacked his friend with a machete in a fit of rage. Police Colonel Supoj Nawarattanarom, Superintendent of Tha Song Yang Police Station, confirmed that Mr. Pharnulee is a known methamphetamine user and was undergoing treatment for addiction. Investigators believe his hallucinations were caused by drug withdrawal, which led to the deadly misunderstanding. Mr. Pharnulee is facing multiple charges including murder and concealment of a corpse. Legal proceedings are underway. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-18.

Picture courtesy of CIB In a major step toward bolstering digital safety, Meta has announced a strategic partnership with the Royal Thai Police’s Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) and key stakeholders from across Thailand. The collaboration aims to strengthen online fraud prevention and promote a secure and sustainable digital environment for Thai users. The partnership will see Meta share comprehensive operational frameworks to address the ever-evolving threats in the digital space. This includes investment in advanced technologies, capacity building for law enforcement personnel, and the development of new tools and features designed to enhance user safety. This public-private initiative highlights the shared commitment of Meta and Thai law enforcement agencies to combat cybercrime. By working together, they aim to raise security standards across the digital landscape and deliver a safer and more trustworthy online experience for the public. The announcement was made at a high-profile event attended by Pol. Gen. Kittirat Phanphet, Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, who presided over the opening ceremony. Also in attendance were Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Bhuridej, Commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau; Yingyos Leechaiyanan, Head of Public Policy for Facebook Thailand; and Rob Abrams, Head of Legal Operations at Meta. Representatives from the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Electronic Transactions Development Agency (ETDA), and Metropolitan Police Division 1 (Bangkok Crime Suppression Division)also joined the event. The collaboration represents a unified effort to address the rising challenges of cybercrime, especially online scams, which have increasingly targeted individuals and businesses. By combining Meta’s technological resources with the investigative capabilities of the Royal Thai Police, the initiative seeks to proactively safeguard digital users and support the long-term vision of a secure online society. Adapted by Asean Now from CIB 2025-05-18.

SRT Sets Stage for KiHa Train Testing by End of June KiHA 40. File photo courtesy of Thai Train Guide The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) is gearing up to commence testing its newly acquired KiHa 40 and 48 diesel trains before the end of June. Provided as a donation from Japan, these second-hand trains are earmarked for suburban feeder routes by the year's end. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360901-srt-sets-stage-for-kiha-train-testing-by-end-of-june/

Health Minister Forms Panel to Examine Thaksin Medical Care Controversy Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World Thailand's Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin has taken a decisive step by assembling a 10-member panel to review the Medical Council’s ruling on the treatment provided to former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360898-health-minister-forms-panel-to-examine-thaksin-medical-care-controversy/

to continue: Thailand Live Sunday 18 May 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1360928-thailand-live-sunday-18-may-2025/

The two firefighters who died in a blaze at an Oxfordshire business park have been named as Jennie Logan and Martyn Sadler, while a member of the public who died is David Chester. Ms Logan, 30, Mr Sadler, 38, and Mr Chester, 57, from Bicester died during the Bicester Motion, a former RAF base. Both firefighters worked at Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service and Mr Sadler was also part of the London Fire Brigade, Thames Valley Police said. Two more firefighters sustained serious injuries and remain in hospital, Oxfordshire County Council said.

UPDATE Final Two Suspects Surrender in Shocking Murder and Burning Case in Trang Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The final two suspects in a gruesome murder case in Trang province have surrendered to police, bringing an end to a week-long manhunt that has gripped the nation. The case involves the execution-style killings and burning of three men, including a well-known local figure, in an oil palm plantation in Si Kao District. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360702-nationwide-manhunt-for-plantation-murder-gang-intensifies-as-police-close-in-on-suspects/#findComment-19806147

UPDATE Final Two Suspects Surrender in Shocking Murder and Burning Case in Trang Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The final two suspects in a gruesome murder case in Trang province have surrendered to police, bringing an end to a week-long manhunt that has gripped the nation. The case involves the execution-style killings and burning of three men, including a well-known local figure, in an oil palm plantation in Si Kao District. On the evening of 16 May, officers from Region 9 Provincial Police and Trang Provincial Police surrounded a mountainous area in Ban Khao Lak, Nam Phut Subdistrict, Mueang Trang District, after receiving intelligence that two remaining fugitives were hiding there. The suspects, Piyasak “Jack” and Rapeepan “Thuak”, surrendered peacefully, walking down from the hill with their hands raised. Both refused to give statements to police, requesting to testify only in court. They now face a range of serious charges including murder, concealment and destruction of corpses, armed robbery, possession and use of illegal firearms, and discharging a firearm without cause. The murders took place on 10 May in Moo 1, Kala Sae Subdistrict, Si Kao District, Trang. The victims were identified as Surachet “Ko Chet”, 69, a respected local businessman, and two of his employees. Their remains were discovered burned in what police described as a “nang yang” killing, where victims are placed on a pyre of tyres and set alight. Initial arrests had already been made, with suspects Supakorn “Bin” Khuankun and Jaranachai “Taem”, 32, taken into custody earlier. Bin also confessed to the killing of another man, Supharerk “Kard”, 37, whose body was found buried 300 metres from the main crime scene. Investigations revealed a chilling sequence of events. According to police, Jack used a firearm to execute Ko Chet and his men. Before doing so, he reportedly forced one of the victims to transfer 40,000 baht to his wife’s bank account. Despite pleas for mercy and requests to be taken to hospital, Jack is alleged to have shot the man dead and then arranged the bodies on a wooden structure over a canal nearly two metres deep. Tyres were stacked beneath the bodies and set alight. Thuak’s alleged role was to procure the tyres used in the burning. Meanwhile, Taem admitted to stealing palm oil from the plantation and purchasing the fuel and tyres for the cremation. Police say the case, which involves a web of theft, extortion, and cold-blooded murder, was particularly disturbing due to its brutality and planning. Authorities have now concluded the operation with all four main suspects in custody. Interrogations are ongoing as prosecutors prepare to bring charges in one of the region’s most horrifying murder cases in recent memory. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-17.

Indian Tourist Assaulted in Pattaya by Ride-Hailing Rider Picture courtesy of ที่นี่ พัทยา An Indian tourist was assaulted in the early hours of the morning of 17 May, in Soi Thepprasit 17, Pattaya, Chonburi province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360893-indian-tourist-assaulted-in-pattaya-by-ride-hailing-rider/