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SRT Extends Thai-Chinese High-Speed Rail Tunnel Construction Due to Land Delays Pictures courtesy of Matichon. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has approved a 181-day extension for the construction of a key tunnel section of the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail project, citing delays in land expropriation as the cause. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360879-srt-extends-thai-chinese-high-speed-rail-tunnel-construction-due-to-land-delays/

Man 57, Dies After Car Plunges Into Canal in Nonthaburi Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 57-year-old man lost his life after the car he was driving plunged into a canal in Nonthaburi province on the evening of 15 May. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360878-man-57-dies-after-car-plunges-into-canal-in-nonthaburi/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon. The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has approved a 181-day extension for the construction of a key tunnel section of the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail project, citing delays in land expropriation as the cause. Mr. Veerath Amrapal, Governor of the SRT, announced that the SRT Board has agreed to extend Contract 3-2 of the high-speed rail project, covering civil engineering works for the Muak Lek and Lam Ta Khong tunnels, from the original completion date of 7 June 2025 to 5 December 2025. The extension was necessary due to delays in handing over expropriated land to the contractor. This affected construction work on the embankment section from DK.134+765 to DK.135+385, as well as the Pha Sadet Bridge. The SRT has now transferred all required land and has urged the contractor to complete the remaining works within the revised schedule. Notably, the extension will not affect other parts of the project and the contractor will not be entitled to claim additional expenses. The tunnel sections under Contract 3-2, valued at 4.279 billion baht, spans 12.23 kilometres, including: • 8 km of tunnels • 3.27 km of embankment railway • 0.96 km of elevated track • Four structures for railway systems • Connecting roads Construction began on 19 April 2021 and has progressed to 90% completion. In addition to the extension, the SRT board has also approved the draft of a Royal Decree to define the expropriation zones for Phase 2 of the high-speed railway, which will run from Nakhon Ratchasima to Nong Khai. The proposal will be submitted to Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, and then to the Cabinet for final approval. The second phase of the project will require the expropriation of 1,991 land plots covering approximately 1,345 rai across the provinces of Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Udon Thani, and Nong Khai, with 1,428 structures to be affected. The compensation budget is estimated at 12.42 billion baht. Phase 2 has already received approval from both the National Environment Board and the Cabinet, and preparations for the bidding process are now underway. This phase will cover a 357.22 km stretch, starting just beyond Nakhon Ratchasima station and ending at the Thai side of the Mekong River, with five new stations and supporting infrastructure. The high-speed railway is a central component of the One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative, intended to boost regional connectivity and trade between Thailand, Laos, and China, while stimulating economic growth in Thailand’s upper northeastern provinces. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-17.

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 57-year-old man lost his life after the car he was driving plunged into a canal in Nonthaburi province on the evening of 15 May. The incident occurred at approximately 20:00, near a U-turn point under the Khlong Lak Khon Bridge in the Lahan subdistrict of Bang Bua Thong. Officers from Bang Bua Thong Police Station received a report of a vehicle submerged in the canal and immediately coordinated with rescue workers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation. Upon arrival, emergency personnel found a Toyota sedan submerged in the water. Rescue workers, assisted by bystanders, managed to retrieve the driver from the vehicle. The man, later identified as Mr Neti, 57, was unresponsive and showed no pulse. CPR was administered for over 30 minutes, but attempts to revive him were unsuccessful, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Shortly after, the victim’s wife and daughter arrived and informed authorities that Mr Neti had several underlying health conditions, including epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, diabetes and a history of brain surgery due to a cerebral haemorrhage. Earlier that evening, he had left home saying he was going out to buy food, but did not return. Concerned by his unusually long absence, his family checked his vehicle’s GPS tracker, which indicated the signal was lost near the bridge, not far from their home. They drove out to the location and found emergency services already attempting to rescue him. According to his wife, Mr Neti would occasionally suffer seizures brought on by severe headaches. It is suspected that he may have had a seizure and lost consciousness while driving, causing the car to veer off the road and into the canal. An investigation is ongoing to confirm the exact cause of the crash. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-17.

UPDATE Two Suspects Arrested in Brutal Murder and Burning of Four at Trang Palm Plantation Picture courtesy of Khoasod. Police have apprehended one of the primary suspects in a gruesome quadruple murder case involving the execution and burning of a palm plantation manager and three employees in Trang province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360702-nationwide-manhunt-for-plantation-murder-gang-intensifies-as-police-close-in-on-suspects/#findComment-19804270

A devastating fire at a former RAF base in Oxfordshire has claimed the lives of two firefighters and a member of the public, in one of the worst incidents to hit the county’s emergency services in recent memory. The blaze broke out on the evening of 15 May, at Bicester Motion, a site on the grounds of the former RAF Bicester, now home to more than 50 specialist businesses, many of them focused on classic car restoration and engineering. Ten fire and rescue appliances, plus additional specialist units, including a hydraulic platform, a high-volume pump, a command vehicle and water carrier, were deployed to tackle the fast-spreading fire, which prompted urgent public safety warnings and was declared a major incident. Thick black smoke was seen billowing into the sky, visible from across the town, as firefighters battled through the night. Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed on the morning of 16 May that two firefighters lost their lives while attempting to control the inferno. Two other firefighters sustained serious injuries and are currently receiving treatment in hospital. The Chief Fire Officer, Rob MacDougall, issued a sombre statement: “It is with a very heavy heart that we today report the loss of two of our firefighters. Their bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten. Families have been informed and are being fully supported at this extremely difficult time.” A member of the public also died in the incident, though their identity has not yet been released. The circumstances and details surrounding their death have not been released and are under investigation. As of the morning of 16 May, the fire was under control, with four fire crews remaining at the site to cover any flare ups. The cause of the fire is not yet known. An investigation is now underway, with police, scene of crime and fire investigators expected conducting a full forensic analysis of the site. Adapted by Asean Now from BBC 2025-05-16. ScreenRecording_05-16-2025 19-17-35_1.mp4

UPDATE Fourth Body Linked to ‘Bin’ as He Confesses to Killing Teenager in Trang Palm Plantation Picture courtesy of Amarin. A chilling twist has emerged in the Trang palm plantation murder case as “Bin”, the ringleader of a group already accused of three gruesome killings, has confessed to a fourth murder, that of a teenager he claims was stealing palm fruit. The man, identified as Mr Supakorn Rakwiwat, known by his alias Bin, 37, was apprehended by police on the morning of 16 May. He is believed to have led a gang responsible for the execution-style killings and burning of three men, including the plantation manager, Mr Surachet Luankiatkajorn, 69, widely known as Ko Chet, along with his two subordinates, Mr Anan Tochanok (Ko Piak), 49, and Mr Weerayut Tannula, 41. Their charred remains were found in a makeshift incineration site in the middle of an oil palm plantation in Si Kao District, Trang Province. However, the discovery of a fourth body, partially buried and burned in a nearby area, prompted further investigation. Following intense interrogation, Bin admitted to shooting and killing the unidentified teenager, claiming the boy was caught stealing palm fruit from the plantation he was hired to protect. He alleged that the landowner had authorised him to “deal with” any trespassers as he saw fit. Bin claimed that he confronted the youth, saw him stealing and shot him dead on the spot. He then attempted to cover up the crime by burning and burying the body at the rear of the plantation managed by Ko Chet. Police are currently working to identify the victim, cross-referencing missing persons reports. Bin told officers that the boy had long hair, but further forensic analysis is underway to determine the teenager’s identity. Following his confession, police escorted Bin back to his holding cell. When reporters attempted to ask whether he wished to apologise to the victims’ families or confirm his direct role in the teenager’s murder, Bin remained silent. Investigations are ongoing. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-16.

UPDATE Two Suspects Arrested in Brutal Murder and Burning of Four at Trang Palm Plantation Picture courtesy of Khoasod. Police have apprehended one of the primary suspects in a gruesome quadruple murder case involving the execution and burning of a palm plantation manager and three employees in Trang province. The suspect, 37-year-old Supakorn, also known as “Bin Khuan Kun”, was taken into custody during the early hours of 16 May, following intense manhunt operations. Authorities report that Bin was found hiding in an oil palm plantation in Kalase subdistrict, Sikao district, where the horrific killings had occurred on 11 May. Police had issued arrest warrants for four individuals in connection with the crime: • Supakorn (Bin Khuan Kun), 37 • Charonchai (Taem), 32 • Piyasak (Jack), 33 • Raphiphan (Thueak), 36 Authorities revealed that Bin, believed to be the ringleader, had initially attempted to negotiate terms for a voluntary surrender through relatives, including requests for bail. However, police firmly rejected any conditions. When investigators identified Bin’s hideout, they swiftly launched a tactical operation and arrested him without resistance. Police believe the suspect feared being shot during the arrest and therefore surrendered peacefully. He was transferred to Kok Yang Police Station in Kantang district for interrogation, where he later confessed to all charges under intense questioning by Pol Col Ekkarat Suansaen, Deputy Commander of Trang Provincial Police. Meanwhile, another suspect, 32-year-old Charonchai, was also captured the previous night in Wang Wiset district. His arrest followed close surveillance after police detected movement in the area. He remains in custody at Wang Wiset Police Station. The remaining two suspects, Piyasak, who is alleged to have been the gunman, and Raphiphan, are still at large. Police operations to apprehend them are ongoing, and authorities have made it clear that they are prepared to use deadly force if necessary during the arrests. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-16.

UPDATE Trang Quadruple Murder Case: Victim’s Vehicle Found Dumped in Canal Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Police in Trang province have uncovered a major lead in the ongoing investigation into the brutal murder and burning of four victims in what is believed to be a gang-related crime. The pickup truck belonging to one of the victims has been recovered from a canal, where it had been abandoned in an apparent attempt to destroy evidence. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360702-nationwide-manhunt-for-plantation-murder-gang-intensifies-as-police-close-in-on-suspects/#findComment-19804206

UPDATE Trang Quadruple Murder Case: Victim’s Vehicle Found Dumped in Canal Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Police in Trang province have uncovered a major lead in the ongoing investigation into the brutal murder and burning of four victims in what is believed to be a gang-related crime. The pickup truck belonging to one of the victims has been recovered from a canal, where it had been abandoned in an apparent attempt to destroy evidence. On 11 May, the charred remains of four individuals were discovered in a palm oil plantation in Moo 1, Kalase subdistrict, Sikao district, Trang province. The victims were allegedly murdered and subjected to a gruesome burning method known locally as nang yang. Authorities have since issued arrest warrants for four suspects: Supakorn Rakwiwat, also known as “Bin Khuan Kun”, 37; Jaranchai Samathi, 32; Piyasak Suwanmanee, 33; and Rapeepan Boonkua, 36. All remain at large. On 15 May at around 17:30, Pol. Col. Ekkerat Suansan, Deputy Commander of Trang Provincial Police, was informed that the suspects had abandoned a silver Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck, the property of 69-year-old Surachet Luankiatkajorn, the caretaker of the plantation and one of the murder victims, in a water diversion canal in Na To Ming subdistrict, Mueang Trang district, in front of the Chulabhorn Dam floodgate. CCTV footage from the area shows the stolen pickup truck turning off onto a service road along the irrigation canal, following a lead vehicle driven by Jaranchai, one of the wanted men. Another camera later captured only one vehicle leaving the area, raising suspicions. Officers inspecting the opposite bank, behind Chulabhorn Rajabhat College in Trang, found disturbed grass and soil at the canal’s edge, along with oil slicks on the water surface. Divers from the Kusonsathan Trang Foundation were dispatched and located the submerged vehicle after a 20-minute search. The truck was recovered and found to still have its ignition key in place. Both the front and rear licence plates had been removed by the perpetrators. No other physical evidence or personal items were discovered inside the vehicle. Authorities believe the vehicle was deliberately submerged to hinder the investigation and destroy forensic evidence. The manhunt for the four suspects is ongoing, with police urging anyone with information to come forward. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-16.

BKK EXPO 2025 Opens with Vision of a Smarter, More Sustainable Bangkok Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt officially opened BKK EXPO 2025 on the 15 May, at the Benjakitti Forest Park Museum in Khlong Toei, inviting citizens to explore the capital’s vision for a more efficient and forward-looking future. This year’s event runs from 15–18 May, under the ambitious theme: “We Work, BKK Work! – A City of Efficiency, A People of Progress.” Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360821-bkk-expo-2025-opens-with-vision-of-a-smarter-more-sustainable-bangkok/

Pictures from the event. Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt officially opened BKK EXPO 2025 on the 15 May, at the Benjakitti Forest Park Museum in Khlong Toei, inviting citizens to explore the capital’s vision for a more efficient and forward-looking future. This year’s event runs from 15–18 May, under the ambitious theme: “We Work, BKK Work! – A City of Efficiency, A People of Progress.” Speaking at the opening ceremony, Governor Chadchart emphasised the uniqueness of Bangkok’s approach. “This isn’t just another Expo. This is a People’s Expo – a platform for everyone to engage with the future of their city. ‘We Work, BKK Work!’ reflects our belief that real progress comes from collective action across every sector,” he said. The event is divided into three immersive zones, each showcasing key dimensions of the city’s development: A Safe and Convenient City This zone highlights policies around transport, public safety and healthcare. Highlights include a real-time Command Centre simulation, allowing visitors to experience how traffic flow and urban safety are managed 24/7. Visitors can also explore an online building permit consultation clinic, an innovative street prototype, flu vaccination services, and even enjoy the event’s much-loved pet cafés, now expanded to include both dogs and cats. A Sustainable City Focused on environmental resilience and transparency in governance, this zone showcases waste management innovations, a solar-powered metropolis concept, and a night-time ecological survey. Visitors are encouraged to rethink sustainability beyond green spaces, focusing also on accountable and visible management systems. A Creative City This section highlights how Bangkok fosters inclusive growth through education, culture, and community. Attractions include a dust-free classroom model, a digital learning space, a giant Kitblox building zone, and Play Day, a free play area for children. There are also senior citizen centres, a creative district simulation, and performances by local busking artists. Beyond the thematic zones, BKK EXPO 2025 offers an array of exciting and educational features: Biodiversity Garden and Butterfly Dome A 500-square-metre butterfly garden, complete with an indoor ‘giant butterfly park’, offers an immersive nature experience for all ages. Disaster Response Command Centre A dramatic simulation space where visitors can step into the shoes of emergency commanders, front-line responders, or even disaster victims. Using cutting-edge data and technology, this exhibit offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at urban crisis management. Traffy Fondue & BMA Act Game Zone Explore interactive games and data displays that use humour and life-size board games to explain how Bangkok’s complaint management platform (Traffy Fondue) and city governance laws work in practice. City Model Plus+ A 3D urban planning room enhanced by AR, VR and AI technology, allowing visitors to scan models and see Bangkok’s evolving skyline in motion. Flavours of Bangkok and Family-Friendly Fun Attendees can sample delicious street food from across the city, stroll through an exhibition featuring over 40,000 butterflies, witness daring live rescue demonstrations, and enjoy indoor and outdoor activities throughout the park. Day 1 roared to life with a fiery opening day, as firefighters stole the show with a dramatic live demonstration of fire suppression techniques. Spectator watched as fire crews executed rapid-response drills in a simulated emergency. Firefighters dashed through flames, rescued ‘casualties’ and showcased the tools and tactics that keep the capital safe. One of the most anticipated features of the event is the presence of the United SAR K9 team. Visitors will have the rare opportunity to meet the elite search-and-rescue dogs and their handlers. These four-legged heroes will demonstrate how they locate missing persons in disaster zones, combining charm with incredible discipline. Children and adults alike can interact with the K9s, pose for photos, and gain insight into the crucial role dogs play in emergency response operations. Event Details: • Dates: 15–18 May 2025 • Time: 12.00 – 20.00 daily • Venue: Benjakitti Forest Park Museum, Khlong Toei, Bangkok • Admission: Free More information is available on the official Bangkok Metropolitan Administration Facebook page and the BKK EXPO Facebook page. Adapted by Asean Now 2025-05-16.

High-Profile Temple Embezzlement Case: Online Gambling Broker Arrested in Pattaya Picture courtesy of Thaich8 A key figure linked to the Wat Rai Khing embezzlement scandal has been arrested in Pattaya, intensifying scrutiny over the 300-million-baht corruption case that has rocked Thailand’s religious establishment. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360815-high-profile-temple-embezzlement-case online-gambling-broker-arrested-in-pattaya/

UPDATE High-Profile Temple Embezzlement Case: Online Gambling Broker Arrested in Pattaya

Picture courtesy of Thaich8 A key figure linked to the Wat Rai Khing embezzlement scandal has been arrested in Pattaya, intensifying scrutiny over the 300-million-baht corruption case that has rocked Thailand’s religious establishment. Ms Aranyawan Wangthaphan, 28, was apprehended, at approximately 16:30 on 15 May, by officers from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) at a condominium on Pattaya Second Road, Chonburi, as part of the widening investigation into alleged financial misconduct by Phra Thamma Wachiranuwat (Yam Kittintharo), the abbot of Wat Rai Khing in Nakhon Pathom and chief monk of Region 14. The arrest follows an extensive financial probe, which revealed that significant sums from Wat Rai Khing’s official accounts were repeatedly transferred into the personal bank account of the abbot. These funds were then allegedly passed on to Ms Aranyawan, who acted as a gambling broker, using her connections to transfer the money into various online baccarat platforms. According to investigators, transactions exceeding 300 million baht were traced between 2021 and 2025, all originating from the temple’s finances. Ms Aranyawan is no stranger to law enforcement. In December 2024, she was arrested by the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) for her involvement in another illegal gambling network. She was released on bail and was awaiting trial when this latest scandal came to light. Authorities say she played a central role in this case, acting as a financial intermediary and credit facilitator for the abbot’s gambling activities. Described by police as a “key cog” in Thailand’s underground online gambling industry, Ms Aranyawan reportedly held multiple bank accounts and managed financial flows for several illegal betting sites. Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1360791-nakhon-pathom-temple-abbot-in-hot-water-300-million-baht-embezzlement-shock/ Adapted by Asean Now from Thaich8 2025-05-16.

Vietnamese Nationals Arrested for Illegal Gold Prospecting in Loei Forest Picture courtesy of Workpoint. Two Vietnamese men have been arrested after allegedly being caught illegally digging for gold ore in a protected forest area in Loei province. The incident took place in the public forestland near Ban Bong village in Na Pong subdistrict, Mueang Loei district. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360803-vietnamese-nationals-arrested-for-illegal-gold-prospecting-in-loei-forest/

Picture courtesy of Workpoint. Two Vietnamese men have been arrested after allegedly being caught illegally digging for gold ore in a protected forest area in Loei province. The incident took place in the public forestland near Ban Bong village in Na Pong subdistrict, Mueang Loei district. On the evening of 14 May, police at Mueang Loei Police Station, led by Pol Sub Lt Warinya Kulnonleutsin, were alerted by local residents who had apprehended the two suspects while they were engaged in unauthorised gold prospecting activities. Officers from the forestry department, the village headman and other local authorities were dispatched to the site. Approximately two kilometres from the village, authorities found that villagers had detained the two Vietnamese men, identified only as Mr Dao and Mr Nguyen and brought them to the police station. At the scene, officials discovered a large excavation pit measuring around 3 metres in width and over 5 metres deep. They also found two sacks of gold-bearing soil, as well as shovels, hoes, a wheelbarrow, and a motorcycle believed to have been used in the operation. During questioning, the suspects reportedly confessed to digging up the soil to pan for gold, which they intended to sell. They admitted that they had been conducting this activity in the forest, which is part of a national reserve. Local residents claimed the site has been targeted by illegal prospectors for several years, and several arrests have previously been made in the same area. The two men now face multiple charges, including: • Trespassing and damaging a national forest reserve without permission • Illegal entry into the Kingdom of Thailand • Working without a legal permit All confiscated items have been seized as evidence, and the suspects have been handed over for prosecution. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to protecting natural resources and enforcing regulations against illegal mining activities. Adapted by Asean Now from Workpoint 2025-05-16.

AOT Reports 36 Billion Baht in Revenue, 68 Million Passengers in First Half of Fiscal Year Picture courtesy of Matichon. Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) has announced strong financial and operational results for the first half of fiscal year 2025 (October 2024 – March 2025), reporting total revenue of 36.2 billion baht and a net profit of over 10.3 billion baht. Passenger numbers soared to 68.42 million across its six airports, marking an 11.76% increase compared to the same period last year. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360802-aot-reports-36-billion-baht-in-revenue-68-million-passengers-in-first-half-of-fiscal-year/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Airports of Thailand Public Company Limited (AOT) has announced strong financial and operational results for the first half of fiscal year 2025 (October 2024 – March 2025), reporting total revenue of 36.2 billion baht and a net profit of over 10.3 billion baht. Passenger numbers soared to 68.42 million across its six airports, marking an 11.76% increase compared to the same period last year. Ms. Paweena Jariyathitipong, Acting President of AOT, revealed that the six airports under AOT’s management, Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, Mae Fah Luang-Chiang Rai, Phuket, and Hat Yai, handled 414,377 flights in the first six months of the fiscal year, a 12.90% rise year-on-year. International flights accounted for 237,511 movements, while domestic flights totalled 176,866. Of the 68.42 million passengers, 42.34 million were international travellers and 26.08 million domestic. Aviation-related revenue rose to 18.18 billion baht, up 17.82% year-on-year. Ms. Paweena attributed the growth to increased air traffic and strategic initiatives, including incentive schemes and marketing support for airlines, aimed at boosting regional connectivity. She also detailed AOT’s long-term development plans to strengthen Thailand’s position as a key aviation hub in Southeast Asia. Major projects include expanding Suvarnabhumi Airport to handle 75 million passengers annually by 2030 and enhancing Don Mueang’s capacity to 50 million passengers per year by 2033. Expansion of international terminals at Chiang Mai and Phuket airports is also underway, alongside feasibility studies for a second airport in both provinces. In addition to airport expansion, AOT is developing commercial zones around airports to create sustainable revenue. Initiatives include the AOT Property Showcase, public-private partnership (PPP) projects, ground service facilities, cargo services, and the construction of Junction Buildings with parking and rail links. On sustainability, AOT continues to receive international recognition. It remains a member of the DJSI World and Emerging Markets indices and has maintained an ‘A’ rating in the SET ESG Ratings. The company aims for Net Zero Emissions by 2044 through clean energy use, solar installations, and electric vehicle deployment. Suvarnabhumi Airport was ranked 39th among the world’s best airports by Skytrax in 2025 and was named the 3rd most improved airport globally. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-16.

Thirteen Chinese Nationals Arrested for Working Illegally in Rayong Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Immigration police officers, accompanied by officials from the Rayong Provincial Employment Office, carried out an inspection at a Chinese-operated company in Nikhom Pattana Sub-district, Nikhom Pattana District, Rayong Province, following reports of illegal employment activity. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360801-thirteen-chinese-nationals-arrested-for-working-illegally-in-rayong/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Immigration police officers, accompanied by officials from the Rayong Provincial Employment Office, carried out an inspection at a Chinese-operated company in Nikhom Pattana Sub-district, Nikhom Pattana District, Rayong Province, following reports of illegal employment activity. During the inspection, authorities discovered 13 Chinese nationals, aged between 35 and 58, working at the premises without the required permits. None of the individuals were able to communicate in Thai, prompting the use of a Chinese interpreter to inform them of the charges. All 13 were charged with working without official authorisation in violation of Thai labour laws. They were subsequently taken to Nikhom Pattana Police Station for further legal proceedings. Officials have not yet disclosed the name of the company involved, but investigations are ongoing to determine the extent of any further violations and whether the employer will also face prosecution. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-16.

Myanmar Vessel Seized After Smuggling Over 5 Tonnes of Clams into Thai Waters Picture courtesy of Amarin. Authorities have intercepted a Myanmar fishing boat smuggling over five tonnes of clams into Thai waters off the coast of Ranong, in what officials described as a covert attempt to blend in with legitimate trade operations. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360800-myanmar-vessel-seized-after-smuggling-over-5-tonnes-of-clams-into-thai-waters/

Picture courtesy of Amarin. Authorities have intercepted a Myanmar fishing boat smuggling over five tonnes of clams into Thai waters off the coast of Ranong, in what officials described as a covert attempt to blend in with legitimate trade operations. The operation, carried out late on 14 May and continuing into the early hours of 15 May, was led by the Surin Islands Maritime Task Force (Phang Nga), under the direction of Mr. Sitthiphon Muangsong, Director of the Fisheries Inspection Division, and Mr. Prasan Sr-Ngam, Director of the Krabi Marine Fisheries Protection and Suppression Centre. The mission was overseen on the ground by Lt. Prasert Khongyian and included five officers working in coordination with Ranong’s provincial fisheries office and border inspection authorities. While conducting routine marine patrols near a floating seafood dock in Pak Khlong village, officers observed a large long-tail boat flying a Myanmar flag. A group of Myanmar crew members was seen unloading sacks filled with clams. Officers waited until all sacks had been offloaded before approaching for inspection. The crew failed to produce the required import documentation. In contrast, other vessels at the same location, belonging to Thai business operators, were able to present valid import permits issued by Ranong’s aquatic animal checkpoint. Authorities seized a total of 146 sacks of live clams, each weighing approximately 40 kilograms, amounting to 5,840 kilograms in total. Mr. Thiti Lohapiyaphan, Inspector General of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives for Region 6, was present to observe the operation as part of his field visit to assess enforcement of national fisheries policies. Officials noted that smugglers typically receive advance warning of patrols and evade capture, but in this case, it appears the vessel attempted to mask its illegal cargo among legitimate traders. The crew members have been handed over to Pak Nam police station for legal proceedings, while the confiscated clams will be returned to the sea to replenish natural stocks. Authorities hope this move will benefit local, law-abiding fishers. A portion of the clams will also be donated to schools in need, to be used in preparing meals for students. The operation reflects Thailand’s ongoing efforts to crack down on illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities along its borders and protect the livelihoods of coastal communities. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-16.

UPDATE Songkhla Governor Returns ‘Golf’ Disciplinary Case to Provincial Council Amid Assault Allegations Picture courtesy of Workpoint. The Governor of Songkhla has formally returned the case of embattled councillor Mr Siradon Phlaidoung, widely known as ‘Golf’, to the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) Council for disciplinary proceedings, urging it to act in accordance with the law. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360410-son-of-prominent-mp-sparks-violence-at-songkhla-polling-station/#findComment-19803441

UPDATE Songkhla Governor Returns ‘Golf’ Disciplinary Case to Provincial Council Amid Assault Allegations Picture courtesy of Workpoint. The Governor of Songkhla has formally returned the case of embattled councillor Mr Siradon Phlaidoung, widely known as ‘Golf’, to the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) Council for disciplinary proceedings, urging it to act in accordance with the law. This follows the council’s request that the Governor intervene in the matter, after Mr Siradon was detained over serious allegations of ordering the assault of a police officer at a polling station. Mr Siradon, a member of the PAO, is currently being held at Songkhla Provincial Prison following accusations that he directed subordinates to physically attack Pol Sgt Nisathit Khonthaep, a border patrol officer, during election duties in Phawong subdistrict on 11 May. The officer had reportedly instructed the group not to take photographs inside the polling station, as per election regulations. Mr Arm Suwanraksa, a local civil society representative, filed a formal complaint on 13 May, prompting calls for an investigation into Mr Siradon’s ethical and political conduct. The councillor now faces multiple charges including: • Inciting three or more people to use force against an official while armed • Coordinating an assault on a public official on duty • Criminal association According to the PAO Act of 1997, removing a councillor on ethical grounds requires a petition signed by at least one-third of council members (12 out of 36), followed by a vote passed with a three-quarters majority. The accused must also be present to defend themselves. However, Mr Siradon’s detention has rendered his participation impossible. The PAO Council thus referred the matter to Governor Chotinarin Kerdsom for a ruling on whether Mr Siradon could remain in office. In response, the Governor stated that while he retains authority under Section 77 of the PAO Act to supervise local administrations, the matter of ethical removal lies solely with the council. Governor Chotinarin affirmed that provincial authorities are working closely with the Ministry of Interior and law enforcement to ensure due process and justice. In a separate but related issue, suspicions have emerged regarding the authenticity of Mr Siradon’s academic qualifications. Allegations suggest he may have submitted a forged Malaysian university degree when filing his candidacy. The Governor has ordered the local Election Commission to investigate, with the Ministry of Education tasked with verifying the institution in question. Should the degree prove fraudulent, further criminal charges may be filed under Thai election and fraud laws. Meanwhile, Mr Siradon and seven co-accused, including his close aides, spent their first night in the quarantine section of Songkhla Provincial Prison. The Songkhla Provincial Court denied bail, citing concerns over witness interference and the severity of the charges. Prison officials reported that the detainees showed mild signs of stress but otherwise ate normally and were cooperative. They will remain in quarantine until after prison authorities determine their placement pending trial. To prevent potential safety risks associated with their perceived influence, the prison has assigned special monitoring staff and will consider segregating them from the general population. Relatives will be permitted to visit the detainees from 19 May, while lawyers have daily access for legal consultations. The case is being closely watched by both provincial and national authorities due to its political and legal implications. Adapted by Asean Now from Workpoint 2025-05-16.