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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/

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/