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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. The Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Foundation received an emergency call at 01:35, reporting that a foreign tourist had sustained injuries after being physically attacked. Rescue volunteers and officers from Pattaya City Police Station were immediately dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, responders found a heavily intoxicated Indian man, estimated to be between 35 and 40 years old, suffering from injuries to his head and eye socket. Blood was running down his face and clothing. He was given initial medical treatment at the scene before being taken to a nearby hospital for further care. The suspect in the assault had fled before authorities arrived, but a bystander managed to capture a photograph of the alleged attacker, which has since been handed over to the police as evidence. A security guard from a nearby condominium provided key information, identifying the suspect as a ride-hailing rider. According to the guard, the tourist, who appeared heavily intoxicated, had entered the wrong destination into the ride-hailing app, causing significant delays and confusion. The situation escalated when the tourist for some reason, allegedly groped the driver and reached into his trousers. In response, the driver punched the tourist several times in the face before fleeing the scene. Authorities have stated that once the tourist has recovered from his injuries, he intends to file an official complaint with investigators at Pattaya City Police Station. Police have launched an investigation and are working to track down the suspect based on the evidence provided. Adapted by Asean Now from ที่นี่ พัทยา 2025-05-17.

Trang: Missing Subdistrict Chief Found Dead in Submerged Car Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The mayor of Khok Yang Subdistrict Administrative Organisation (SAO) in Kantang District, Trang Province, was found dead on 16 May, after his vehicle was discovered submerged in a pond at Wang Nok Nam Public Park. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360892-trang-missing-subdistrict-chief-found-dead-in-submerged-car/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The mayor of Khok Yang Subdistrict Administrative Organisation (SAO) in Kantang District, Trang Province, was found dead on 16 May, after his vehicle was discovered submerged in a pond at Wang Nok Nam Public Park. Mr Somchai Hoisang, the head of Khok Yang SAO, had been reported missing after attending a wedding reception on the night of 15 May, at the park’s multipurpose pavilion, located in Khao Wiset Subdistrict of Wang Wiset District. Local police from Khao Wiset Police Station received the report of his disappearance at around 13.30 on 16 May. Concerned family members had been unable to reach him since the previous evening and began a search early morning. A short time later, Mr Somchai’s vehicle was found at the bottom of a large pond within the park grounds. Rescue teams worked together to retrieve the vehicle and tragically discovered Mr Somchai’s body inside. Mr Somchai had reportedly been attending the wedding of a village headman from Moo 15, Khao Wiset Subdistrict. His sudden death has shocked the local community, where he was a respected figure in local government. Authorities continue to investigate whether any other factors contributed to the incident and to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the fatal crash. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-17.

Man Fatally Stabbed by Sister in Family Dispute Over Television in Surin Picture courtesy of Workpoint. A 55-year-old man has died after being fatally stabbed and having his throat slashed by his younger sister during a heated argument over moving a television at their family home in Surin province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360891-man-fatally-stabbed-by-sister-in-family-dispute-over-television-in-surin/

Picture courtesy of Workpoint. A 55-year-old man has died after being fatally stabbed and having his throat slashed by his younger sister during a heated argument over moving a television at their family home in Surin province. The incident occurred in Moo 5, Mueang Thi Subdistrict, Mueang District. Emergency services and local police from Mueang Thi Police Station were dispatched to the scene after receiving a distress call via the Narenthorn emergency radio network. Upon arrival at the single-storey concrete residence, officers and rescue personnel found the lifeless body of Mr. Jaichalat 55, lying face-down in a pool of blood. He had sustained a fatal stab wound to the chest, and there were signs of a brutal throat injury. His body was sent to Surin Hospital for a full autopsy. According to Mrs. Jiraporn 80, the deceased man’s aunt, the assailant was the victim’s own younger sister, Ms. Mayulee, aged 42. She told reporters that the siblings frequently quarrelled and had a long-standing history of conflict. On the day of the incident, they argued over moving a television set. The altercation escalated, and in a fit of rage, Ms. Mayulee reportedly grabbed a fruit knife and stabbed her brother in the chest before slashing his throat. Neighbours gathered in large numbers as police secured the scene and began a forensic investigation. Ms. Mayulee was arrested at the scene and taken into custody for questioning. Authorities have confirmed that she is being held and will face legal proceedings in accordance with the law. Adapted by Asean Now from Workpoint 2025-05-17.

UPDATE High-Profile Assault Case Involving “ Golf” Transferred to Crime Suppression Division Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The high-profile assault case involving Mr. Siradon Plai-duang, widely known as Sorsor (Provincial Council Member) Golf, has been formally transferred to Thailand’s Crime Suppression Division (CSD) following widespread public scrutiny and concerns over potential local interference. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360410-son-of-prominent-mp-sparks-violence-at-songkhla-polling-station/#findComment-19805446

UPDATE High-Profile Assault Case Involving “ Golf” Transferred to Crime Suppression Division Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The high-profile assault case involving Mr. Siradon Plai-duang, widely known as Sorsor (Provincial Council Member) Golf, has been formally transferred to Thailand’s Crime Suppression Division (CSD) following widespread public scrutiny and concerns over potential local interference. Mr. Siradon, the son of Democrat MP Somyos Plai-duang (Ko Guek), is accused of leading an assault on Police Senior Sergeant Major Nisatit Kongthep, an officer with Border Patrol Police Unit 43, during election duty in Phawong Subdistrict, Mueang Songkhla, on 11 May. According to police, the officer was attacked by a group of seven men, allegedly under Siradon’s orders, after he forbade photography at the polling station. The suspects were charged with four serious offences, including premeditated assault of an officer on duty, resisting arrest using weapons, unlawful assembly, and membership in a criminal gang. The Songkhla Provincial Court denied bail, and all seven men, including Siradon, were remanded to Songkhla Provincial Prison. Due to the high-profile nature of the case and concerns over influence and fairness, Provincial Police Region 9 submitted an urgent request to National Police Commissioner General Kitirat Phanphet to transfer the investigation to central authorities. The case (Criminal Case 513/2568) is now under the jurisdiction of the Crime Suppression Division (CSD), which will act as the primary investigative body. Should further suspects or offences be uncovered, the CSD will have full authority to proceed with expanded investigations. At a press conference, Police Lieutenant General Jiraphop Phuridej, Commissioner of the Central Investigation Bureau, confirmed the case transfer and assured the public of a thorough and impartial process. He emphasised that the case, involving alleged abuse of power by an influential local figure, fits squarely within the CSD’s remit. The case continues to draw intense public interest, with many questioning whether justice will be served without fear or favour. Authorities have vowed full transparency and commitment to the rule of law. Adapted by Asean Now from ThaiRath 2025-05-17.

Police Officer Killed and Colleague Seriously Injured in Roadside Bombing in Pattani Pictures courtesy of Khaosod. A police officer has died and another remains in critical condition following a targeted roadside bomb attack in Kapho District, Pattani Province, part of the violence-stricken Deep South. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360890-police-officer-killed-and-colleague-seriously-injured-in-roadside-bombing-in-pattani/

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod. A police officer has died and another remains in critical condition following a targeted roadside bomb attack in Kapho District, Pattani Province, part of the violence-stricken Deep South. The incident occurred at approximately 14:00 on 16 May, when officers from Kapho Police Station were patrolling a known flashpoint area near Ban Biting, Village 5, in the Talodue Raman Subdistrict. The patrol vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device (IED), believed to have been planted by insurgents seeking to ambush the security team. The explosion hurled the police pickup truck off the road and into a paddy field, leaving the vehicle completely destroyed. Police Lieutenant Panakorn Intha, Deputy Inspector (Investigation) at Kapho Police Station, sustained critical injuries and later died in hospital despite doctors’ best efforts to save him. Sergeant Major Thoensak Raksawong, who was also in the vehicle, suffered severe chest injuries and remains under intensive medical care at Kapho District Hospital. Initial reports from Ranger Company 4403, relayed via the local Talodue Raman Security Coordination Centre, indicate that the bomb was detonated remotely as the police vehicle passed along a secondary road leading into the village. Following the blast, emergency services and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams swiftly arrived at the scene. Forensic officers examined the site for clues as intelligence units pursue leads to identify those responsible. Security forces have sealed off the surrounding area and launched a coordinated sweep operation. While no group has yet claimed responsibility, the attack bears hallmarks consistent with operations carried out by separatist insurgents, who have waged a low-level but deadly conflict in the region for over two decades. State officials, police, and military personnel are frequently targeted in bombings and ambushes. Authorities have condemned the attack and pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice. The latest incident is a stark reminder of the ongoing instability and challenges to peace in the southern border provinces. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-17.

Warning Issued After Young Woman’s Long Skirt Caught in Motorbike Wheel Causing Crash Picture courtesy of CH7 Authorities have issued a warning to women who wear long skirts while riding as passengers on motorcycles, after a 20-year-old woman was injured when her skirt became entangled in the rear wheel of a motorbike, causing it to crash. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360889-warning-issued-after-young-woman’s-long-skirt-caught-in-motorbike-wheel-causing-crash/

Picture courtesy of CH7 Authorities have issued a warning to women who wear long skirts while riding as passengers on motorcycles, after a 20-year-old woman was injured when her skirt became entangled in the rear wheel of a motorbike, causing it to crash. The crash occurred at approximately 18:50 on 15 May 2025 near the entrance of Soi Dan Samrong 56/1, in Samrong Nuea Subdistrict, Mueang District, Samut Prakan Province. Emergency responders from the Samut Prakan Hospital emergency unit, along with volunteers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation, were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, rescue workers found a grey motorcycle overturned on the road. A long skirt was visibly wrapped around the chain and rear wheel mechanism of the vehicle. The injured passenger, later identified as Ms. Sasipa, 20, had sustained abrasions, general body pain and a head injury. She was treated at the scene and then transported to Samut Prakan Pu Chao Hospital for further care. Mr. Wisut, 58, the motorcycle taxi driver involved in the incident, told reporters he had picked up the young woman at the entrance of Soi Wat Dan Samrong and was taking her home. He acknowledged noticing that the passenger was wearing a long skirt but admitted he failed to warn her about the potential danger due to being in a rush. “While riding down the road, just as we passed Soi Dan Samrong 56/1, her skirt got caught in the chain near the rear wheel,” Mr. Wisut explained. “It caused me to lose balance and crash, throwing us both off.” The incident has sparked fresh concerns about safety awareness for both motorcyclists and passengers. Officials are urging all riders, particularly women wearing flowing clothing, to take extra precautions to avoid similar incidents. They also encouraged motorcycle taxi drivers to play a more proactive role in ensuring passenger safety, including advising on proper attire and positioning. While Ms. Sasipa’s injuries were not life-threatening, authorities hope this serves as a cautionary tale to help prevent more serious incidents in the future. Adapted by Asean Now from CH7 2025-05-17.

Thai Prosecutor and Daughter Arrested in Japan for Assaulting Airport Staff Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 66-year-old Thai man, reportedly a senior public prosecutor and his 30-year-old daughter were arrested by police at Narita International Airport in Chiba Prefecture on charges of assaulting an airline employee. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360888-thai-prosecutor-and-daughter-arrested-in-japan-for-assaulting-airport-staff/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 66-year-old Thai man, reportedly a senior public prosecutor and his 30-year-old daughter were arrested by police at Narita International Airport in Chiba Prefecture on charges of assaulting an airline employee. According to Japanese media reports, the incident occurred on 12 May at approximately 14:45, local time at the departure counter of Terminal 1. The pair allegedly became involved in a dispute with a 28-year-old airline staff member over what they claimed was poor customer service. During the altercation, the father was accused of grabbing the employee by the arm. He later claimed to be a public prosecutor and admitted to the allegations during police questioning. His daughter, who is self-employed, denied any physical contact with the staff member. Both individuals had reportedly been on holiday in Japan and were preparing to return to Thailand when the incident occurred. Further investigation by Japanese authorities confirmed the man’s identity as a senior prosecutor in Thailand, but no further details were made public. The Thai Public Prosecutors Commission has been notified of the matter and both individuals are still under investigation by Japanese law enforcement. The incident has drawn attention in both Japan and Thailand, particularly due to the father’s high-profile position in the Thai judicial system. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-17.

Wild Elephant Invades School to Feast on Mangoes Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Teachers at a rural school in Chachoengsao province are on high alert after a wild elephant broke into the school grounds in the middle of the night to raid a mango tree, on the night before the start of the new school term. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360886-wild-elephant-invades-school-to-feast-on-mangoes/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Teachers at a rural school in Chachoengsao province are on high alert after a wild elephant broke into the school grounds in the middle of the night to raid a mango tree, on the night before the start of the new school term. The incident occurred at Wat Thung Yai Chi School in Moo 3, Thung Yai Chi village, Tha Takiap district. CCTV footage captured the elephant shaking a heavily laden mango tree beside the school football field and consuming most of the ripe fruit. The disturbance was partly thwarted by “Tank”, the school’s resident dog, which barked persistently and, along with two other dogs, helped drive the elephant away. Mr Parinya Phadungkij, a teacher at the school, was among staff preparing classrooms for the start of term on 16 May. He showed reporters the site of the raid, where ripe mangoes lay scattered on the ground and the branches had been heavily stripped of fruit. According to Mr Parinya, this was the first time the school had ever experienced an incursion by a wild elephant. CCTV footage from around 03:10, showed a large elephant, approximately 2.6 metres tall, entering the school premises. It wandered past the newly built kindergarten building, passed under a connecting walkway roughly 2.7 metres high, and entered the roofless multipurpose area before exiting through the opposite gate. Minutes later, the elephant returned via the school’s football field and began shaking the mango tree at the corner. Tank the dog, alongside two others, barked loudly to chase it away. Though they initially succeeded, the elephant returned a short time later to continue feeding. Once again, Tank’s barking forced the animal back into the forested area beyond the school’s perimeter. Although the intrusion occurred during the school holiday and in the early hours of the morning, the incident has prompted staff to maintain vigilance, fearing that the elephant could return at any time, posing a danger to students. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-17.

Buriram Village in Shock as Man Attempts to Have Sex with Livestock Picture courtesy of Workpoint. Residents of a rural village in Buriram province have been left horrified after a 37-year-old man was found wandering the area requesting to have sexual intercourse with villagers’ livestock, including cows and dogs. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360885-buriram-village-in-shock-as-man-attempts-to-have-sex-with-livestock/

Picture courtesy of Workpoint. Residents of a rural village in Buriram province have been left horrified after a 37-year-old man was found wandering the area requesting to have sexual intercourse with villagers’ livestock, including cows and dogs. The man was later discovered naked and behaving erratically near a cattle pen, prompting fears for public safety and concerns over his mental health and possible drug use. The disturbing incident occurred in Moo 5, Chum Het Subdistrict, Mueang Buriram District. Local police were called by concerned residents after the man, later identified as Mr. Ittiporn, approached multiple villagers asking for permission to engage in sexual acts with their animals. Witnesses say he showed no signs of shame or restraint and refused to leave the area despite being repeatedly warned. Mr. Chaisak, a 70-year-old cattle owner, told reporters that Mr. Ittiporn came to his house and directly asked to have sex with one of his cows. When refused, he allegedly responded by saying he would settle for the dog if not the cow. Despite being driven away, he returned that evening and attempted to hide near the cattle pen, still making disturbing requests. Eventually, Mr. Ittiporn was found completely nude behind the cattle pen. Upon seeing authorities arrive, he climbed a tree in an attempt to avoid capture. Police tried to reason with him, but he remained uncooperative until they tricked him by pretending to offer him what he wanted. Only then did he descend, allowing officers to detain him. During the arrest, police found a used syringe among Mr. Ittiporn’s discarded belongings. He reportedly claimed it was used for HIV treatment, though villagers and authorities suspect he may have been under the influence of narcotics. His incoherent speech and erratic behaviour further fuelled suspicions of drug-induced psychosis. A background check revealed a history of substance abuse. Ms. Jiraporn Saengkutlao, the village head, expressed serious concerns over the incident. “This man poses a real threat to our community. We have children and elderly residents. This kind of behaviour is dangerous and unacceptable,” she said. “We urge relevant authorities to step in and ensure he receives the treatment he needs while protecting our community from future risks.” Mr. Ittiporn has since been transported to Buriram General Hospital for psychiatric evaluation and further investigation. Local authorities have pledged to take additional steps to ensure the safety of residents. Adapted by Asean Now from Workpoint 2025-05-17.

Pattaya’s 345-Million-Baht Marina Parking Project Left Abandoned for 17 Years Picture courtesy of Sophon A long-abandoned marina parking project in South Pattaya has become a stark symbol of failed urban planning, poor project management, and wasteful public spending, with over 345 million baht of taxpayer funds yielding nothing but rust and rubble. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360883-pattaya’s-345-million-baht-marina-parking-project-left-abandoned-for-17-years/

Picture courtesy of Sophon A long-abandoned marina parking project in South Pattaya has become a stark symbol of failed urban planning, poor project management, and wasteful public spending, with over 345 million baht of taxpayer funds yielding nothing but rust and rubble. The South Pattaya Marina Parking Facility, located near the Bali Hai Pier, was envisioned in 2008 as a state-of-the-art docking and vehicle parking solution to alleviate congestion and support the city’s booming marine tourism industry. Funded with a staggering 735 million baht from central government coffers, the project comprised two major components: an automated car park for 417 vehicles and a hydraulic boat parking system capable of accommodating over 360 vessels. While the car park component is in limited operation, the marina itself has never been functional since completion in October 2013. Now, nearly two decades after construction began, the facility lies deteriorated and unusable, a cautionary tale of what can happen when large-scale infrastructure projects are poorly conceived and executed. The irony is stark. Pattaya is currently undergoing a dramatic transformation in a bid to revive its status as a tourist destination post-COVID. City officials have heavily promoted revitalisation projects through mainstream and social media, including upgrades to Bali Hai Pier, Pattaya’s main marine transport hub, which can see over 10,000 tourists daily travelling to destinations like Koh Larn. Millions of baht have been invested into improved roofing for weather protection, upgraded floating pontoons to support tourist vessels, and newly allocated budgets to tackle long-neglected issues such as public toilet facilities. Pattaya is actively marketing itself as a model city of “universal design” and tourism infrastructure excellence. But amidst this forward-looking vision lies a forgotten megaproject. The marina parking facility was designed to be a game-changer. Instead, it was a logistical and technical failure from the start. The hydraulic system, intended to lift and store boats safely out of the water, was never operational. Boat operators complained early on that the system was incapable of handling real-world conditions, rendering the docks unusable for the speedboats servicing the area. Compounding the issue, in 2015, just two years after the project was completed, Tropical Storm Vamco (locally known as “Wa Mok Ko”) struck South Pattaya. The resulting storm surge and sediment accumulation severely damaged the underwater infrastructure. Large parts of the hydraulic system were buried and now corroded beyond repair. Although the city filed legal action against the project designers, Thailand’s Supreme Administrative Court later ruled that the city itself bore responsibility due to inadequate feasibility studies and failure to anticipate environmental risks. Critics, including local stakeholders, say the city’s failure to consult marine operators and industry professionals during the planning phase was a fatal flaw. Instead of designing a system tailored to real operational needs, city officials approved blueprints disconnected from practical maritime realities. Moreover, the complete absence of a long-term maintenance plan and the failure to conduct environmental impact assessments have only magnified the project’s deterioration. The South Pattaya Marina Parking Project stands today as a neglected concrete ghost facility overtaken by corrosion and tropical decay. It exemplifies the risks of fast-tracked development, top-down decision-making and superficial consultation with stakeholders. While Pattaya presses forward with new tourism initiatives, this abandoned marina should serve as a lasting reminder: real progress depends not just on spending, but on sound planning, inclusive design and sustainable management. City officials are now under increasing pressure to either rehabilitate the marina or formally decommission the site and reallocate future budgets with greater transparency and public input. Adapted by Asean Now from Sophon 2025-05-17.

Air Force Scrambles F-16s to Intercept Aircraft Near Kanchanaburi Border Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) deployed two F-16 fighter jets in an emergency operation after detecting a high-performance aircraft approaching Thai airspace near the western border province of Kanchanaburi. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360882-air-force-scrambles-f-16s-to-intercept-aircraft-near-kanchanaburi-border/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) deployed two F-16 fighter jets in an emergency operation after detecting a high-performance aircraft approaching Thai airspace near the western border province of Kanchanaburi. According to an official statement posted on the Royal Thai Air Force’s social media page, the urgent mission was launched at 12:42 on 16 May, when radar systems detected an aircraft resembling a K-8 attack jetheading towards Thai territory. The jets were scrambled from Wing 4 in Takhli, Nakhon Sawan, with orders to intercept and identify the aircraft. This incident mirrors a similar situation earlier in the month. On 6 May 2025, Thai air defence systems detected an unidentified aircraft near the border opposite Mueang District, Kanchanaburi Province. At the time, the RTAF also launched two F-16 fighters from Wing 4 to intercept the aircraft and demonstrate a deterrent posture. Following the interception, air patrols were conducted over Mueang and Sai Yok districts to ensure continued aerial security in the region. The deployment of fighter aircraft underscores heightened vigilance in the region amid concerns over border incursions and unauthorised aerial activity. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-17.

Bangkok Police Arrest “Young Entrepreneurs” Gang for Disguised E-Cigarette Deliveries Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Metropolitan Police Division 3 have arrested two members of a criminal group known as “Young Entrepreneurs”, who exploited a national e-cigarette shortage by distributing illegal products while posing as food delivery riders. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360881-bangkok-police-arrest-“young-entrepreneurs”-gang-for-disguised-e-cigarette-deliveries/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Metropolitan Police Division 3 have arrested two members of a criminal group known as “Young Entrepreneurs”, who exploited a national e-cigarette shortage by distributing illegal products while posing as food delivery riders. The suspects, identified as Mr. Pongsiri (27), known as Pong, and Mr. Phat (27), known as Pok, were detained after a covert police operation in the Thong Romklao market area of Min Buri. Officers seized a large quantity of illegal vaping products disguised in parcels intended for online delivery. Under the command of Pol Col Krit Komnoi, the operation was carried out by a team led by Pol Lt Col Jamnong Prasopsukmangdee. Investigators uncovered that the group had been operating an online e-cigarette distribution service from a seemingly closed shop front. Orders were placed via social media or messaging apps, with payments made by bank transfer. Products were then delivered by couriers impersonating Line Man food delivery drivers, complete with uniforms and delivery boxes mounted on motorbikes. Surveillance confirmed the operation’s method: one suspect was seen in a Line Man jacket placing parcels into a delivery box and riding away on a red-and-black Honda Wave motorcycle. Officers intercepted him on Romklao Road and searched the parcels, uncovering nine popular disposable e-cigarette devices. A subsequent raid on the store revealed further inventory: • 18 standard e-cigarette devices • 85 disposable e-cigarettes • 229 bottles of e-liquid • 1,013 accessories including pods and coils In total, 1,354 illegal items were seized, along with marketing materials, QR code payment signs linked to a Kasikorn Bank account, a tablet running inventory software, and sales records showing daily earnings of up to 100,000 baht. During interrogation, Pong admitted the group called themselves “Young Entrepreneurs” and had been active since the government launched a crackdown on e-cigarette distribution, which had caused product shortages and driven up prices. He stated that the shop was leased by associates “Ms. Patch” and “Mr. Mam”, who handled online orders. Pok managed inventory and packaging, while Pong acted as the delivery rider to avoid suspicion. Their customer base stretched across Bangkok’s outer districts, including Romklao, Lat Krabang, Min Buri, and Nong Chok, with deliveries reportedly made as far as Nakhon Nayok for a fee of 800 baht. Both suspects face two main charges: 1. Illegal sale and distribution of e-cigarettes and e-liquids, in violation of Consumer Protection Board Order No. 9/2558. Penalty: up to 3 years’ imprisonment, a 600,000 baht fine, or both. 2. Possession of smuggled goods not declared through customs, violating Section 246 of the Customs Act B.E. 2560. Penalty: up to 5 years’ imprisonment, a 500,000 baht fine, or both. The accused and all seized items have been transferred to Min Buri Police Station for further legal proceedings. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-17.

Panic in Nonthaburi, ‘Suspicious Package’ Turns Out to Be Life-Sized Sex Doll Pictures courtesy of Kaoded. Residents of a condominium complex in Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi, were left startled in the early hours of 16 May, after a suspicious package sparked a security scare, only to reveal a surprising and humorous twist. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360880-panic-in-nonthaburi-‘suspicious-package’-turns-out-to-be-life-sized-sex-doll/

Pictures courtesy of Kaoded. Residents of a condominium complex in Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi, were left startled in the early hours of 16 May, after a suspicious package sparked a security scare, only to reveal a surprising and humorous twist. At approximately 01:00, local police from Pak Kret Police Station were alerted to the presence of a large, unattended box near a communal rubbish area behind a condominium on Soi 12, Bon Street Road. Concerned citizens reported the object as potentially hazardous, prompting officers to attend the scene with caution. On arrival, officers discovered a large cardboard box, approximately 1.8 metres long and 40 centimetres wide, roughly the size of a human body, lying next to the bins. Following strict protocol, police opened the box with care, only to be greeted first by layers of black foam padding and a pink cloth. What they uncovered beneath caused initial alarm, a seemingly headless human body. However, further inspection revealed the “body” to be a hyper-realistic silicone sex doll, complete with a separate head wrapped in a black cloth bag. The doll, still in pristine condition, appeared unused. What had begun as a tense situation quickly turned to laughter and relief among the responding officers and the growing number of onlookers. Many had feared the worst, only to witness one of the more bizarre incidents in recent local memory. Police now believe that the doll’s owner may have discarded it discreetly, either out of dissatisfaction with its appearance, fear of discovery by guests, or simple embarrassment. Given the quality and condition of the doll, it is presumed to be a high-end item with a considerable price tag. To prevent further panic, the police have removed the doll from the scene and taken it into custody at Pak Kret Police Station. Officers noted that had it been left unattended, future passersby or refuse collectors might have made additional emergency calls, mistaking it for something far more sinister. While no crime has been committed, the unusual discovery has prompted plenty of chuckles and a reminder of the strange surprises life and night shifts, can deliver. Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-05-17.