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Picture courtesy of SiamNews. Metropolitan Police have dismantled an illegal production and distribution network for e-cigarettes in the capital, arresting five suspects and seizing a vast quantity of contraband, including vaping devices, chemical ingredients and equipment. Some of the seized substances were found to contain illegal narcotics. The operation was led under the direction of Pol. Lt. Gen. Siam Boonsom, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, along with senior officers including Pol. Maj. Gen. Pallop Aermla, Pol. Maj. Gen. Noppasin Poolsawat, and Pol. Maj. Gen. Chotiwat Lueangwilai, Chief of the Bureau’s Investigation Division. The initial phase of the operation was coordinated by Pol. Lt. Col. Chanon Banpakarn, Deputy Superintendent of Intelligence and Special Tools, who obtained search warrants from both the Criminal Court and Min Buri Criminal Court. Officers raided two residential properties: one on Soi Prasert Manukit 37 in Nuanchan, Bueng Kum District and another in the Casa Ville housing estate on Ram Intra – Outer Ring Road in Tharang, Bang Khen District. Two suspects were arrested at these locations and charged with violating a Consumer Protection Board order (Order No. 9/2015) prohibiting the sale of disposable e-cigarettes and refill liquids, and with concealing, trafficking or possessing goods known to be prohibited under Section 246 of the 2017 Customs Act. Among the items seized were over 10,000 disposable e-cigarettes, 6,250 empty vape pod boxes, mobile phones, laptops and various packing tools. The investigation then expanded to a production facility in the Watcharaphon area. Police from Investigation Subdivision 2, led by Pol. Col. Sitthisak Nakamat, raided two homes in the City Sense housing estate in Bang Khen district, resulting in the arrest of three additional suspects. This second raid uncovered a fully equipped illicit vape liquid manufacturing site. Items seized included mixing equipment, white crystalline chemicals (30 grams), fog-producing liquid, flavouring agents, glycerine, vape pod pressing machines, empty cartridges, and over 20,000 boxes for vape pod heads. Officers also seized 50 disposable e-cigarettes and completed vape liquids ready for sale. Preliminary forensic analysis revealed that some of the vape liquids contained illegal narcotic substances known locally as “pot-k,” raising concerns over public health and consumer safety. All five suspects face the same charges related to breaching consumer protection laws and customs violations. In addition, police have launched a further investigation into the production of narcotics-laced e-liquids, which may result in additional serious charges. The suspects have been transferred to Khok Khram Metropolitan Police Station for formal legal proceedings. Authorities described the raid as a significant crackdown on the illegal e-cigarette trade in Bangkok, particularly due to the discovery of dangerous chemical additives in products intended for public consumption. Adapted by ASEAN Now from SiamNews 2025-06-21

Killing of Elderly Mother by Mentally Ill Son in Kamphaeng Phet Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A shocking domestic incident unfolded in Kamphaeng Phet province, where a 52-year-old man used a machete to brutally kill his 84-year-old mother, inflicting over ten wounds across her body. The suspect, known to suffer from mental illness, has been charged with parricide. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364335-killing-of-elderly-mother-by-mentally-ill-son-in-kamphaeng-phet/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A shocking domestic incident unfolded in Kamphaeng Phet province, where a 52-year-old man used a machete to brutally kill his 84-year-old mother, inflicting over ten wounds across her body. The suspect, known to suffer from mental illness, has been charged with parricide. The incident took place on the evening of 19 June at a family home in Ko Ta Subdistrict, Khanu Woralaksaburi District. Police, forensic officers, and rescue volunteers were called to the scene, where they discovered the lifeless body of Mrs. Malee, lying face-down in a pool of blood in the kitchen. According to initial examination, the victim sustained more than ten slashing wounds. These included a major gash at the back of the head, another large wound to the left shoulder, seven smaller cuts along the left arm and three minor wounds at the back of the left knee. The body has since been transferred to Khanu Woralaksaburi Hospital for a full forensic examination. The alleged attacker, Mr. Jakkrit, the victim’s own son, was found sitting quietly in his bedroom when his older sister returned from work and discovered the gruesome scene. After questioning him, he admitted to the killing. She immediately locked the house and called police, who quickly arrived and detained the suspect. The suspect reportedly spoke coherently during initial questioning. Relatives and neighbours confirmed he had long-standing psychiatric issues and had been under treatment for years. However, recent signs suggested his condition may have worsened. Neighbours described increasingly erratic behaviour in the days leading up to the murder. One local resident recounted a disturbing incident just days earlier when the suspect demanded to sleep at her house, claiming to be afraid of ghosts. When refused, he allegedly became aggressive and attempted to force his way in, causing the woman and her child to flee for safety. She also noted that he frequently carried knives and had a collection of blades in his possession. On the day of the murder, neighbours reported hearing him shouting and causing a disturbance. Police later found three machetes in his room but have yet to determine which was used in the attack. Mr. Jakkrit has been formally charged with murder of a parent. He will undergo a detailed psychiatric evaluation to determine his mental state at the time of the crime. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod 2025-06-21

UPDATE Drunk Swedish Tourist Seriously Injured After Being Run Over in Pattaya Car Park Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A Swedish man was left seriously injured after a car accidentally ran over his head in a Pattaya car park. The driver, who failed to see the man lying on the ground, was picking up a passenger at the time. The incident occurred at a car park outside a popular entertainment venue, SinLapin Isaan, along Pattaya Third Road. The Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Rescue Centre received the emergency call and quickly dispatched responders, along with local police led by Pol. Lt. Wuttinan Khongdee of Pattaya City Police Station. At the scene, rescuers found 54-year-old Swedish national Mr. Henderson lying in the car park in severe pain, with visible injuries to his head. Witnesses said the man had been intoxicated and had collapsed earlier. He was run over by a white Mitsubishi Attrage sedan with Bangkok license, the wheel striking his head. The driver, identified as Mr. Phonwat Onlamai 29, appeared visibly shaken. He told officers he was in the car park to collect a customer and had no idea anyone was lying on the ground. “As I turned the corner, I felt the car bump over something and immediately stopped. I was shocked to find a person lying there,” he said. Security camera footage confirmed that the foreign tourist had been lying on the ground. Witnesses, including security guards and the victim’s wife, reported that the man was heavily intoxicated, had stumbled and laid down in the car park. Despite attempts to help him up, he remained on the ground. Rescue teams provided immediate first aid before rushing Mr. Henderson to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. His condition was described as serious. Pol. Lt. Wuttinan confirmed that investigators are reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses, including testing the driver, to compile evidence and ensure fair legal process. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-06-20

UPDATE This is additional CIB video of the surveillance and raid.

UPDATE Australian-Thai Couple Arrested in Udon Thani for Illegal Weapons Purchase Picture courtesy of Khaosod An Australian man and his Thai partner have been arrested by cyber police in Udon Thani for allegedly purchasing illegal firearms accessories, including gun silencers and military ordnance, via an online marketplace. The arrest, announced on 18 June, by Lieutenant General Trairong Phiwphan, Commissioner of the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD), follows an investigation into the online store “Goodluck Airrow”, which was found advertising illegal weapon components disguised as innocuous items. The store, boasting over 1,500 followers, posted at least 14 listings featuring images of suppressors and other restricted items. In an apparent attempt to evade detection, the seller used vague product descriptions such as “spare parts” or “Oil Filter 35mm Thread Connector” to list silencers for sale. Police conducted a controlled purchase of one such item, which was then examined by the Royal Thai Police Ordnance Division and the Munitions Control Division of the Ministry of Defence. The item was confirmed to be military-grade ordnance, possession of which is illegal without authorisation from the Defence Ministry. The first arrest in the case took place on 28 March, when officers detained a man identified as Mr Surasit 43, a kindergarten teacher in Nakhon Sawan province, who had made multiple purchases from the store. This led investigators to another frequent buyer using the online alias “chase2023”, who had placed orders more than 11 times. Further investigation uncovered the identity of another suspect who had been ordering military equipment. Acting on a search warrant issued by Udon Thani Provincial Court on 16 June, police raided a property in Moo 5, Tambon Khambong, Ban Phue District. At the residence, officers arrested Ms Atitaya 39, and Mr Adam 37, an Australian national. A search of the premises uncovered three firearms, three gun silencers and approximately 3,500 rounds of ammunition of unspecified calibre. Both suspects reportedly confessed to purchasing the silencers from “Goodluck Airrow” and admitted to possessing the weapons without the necessary permits. They have been formally charged with the joint possession of firearms without authorisation from the local registrar, as well as the illegal possession of military ordnance without permission from the Ministry of Defence. The TCSD confirmed that investigations are ongoing and further arrests may follow as the extent of the illicit network is revealed. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-06-20

CCTV Captures Moment Driver Runs Over Drunk Swedish Tourist’s Head Outside Pattaya Bar Picture courtesy of พัทยา จุดเกิดเหตุ In the early hours of 20 June, an incident occurred outside a nightlife venue in Pattaya, Chonburi province, when a Swedish tourist, reportedly intoxicated and lying on the ground, was accidentally run over by a ride-hailing driver. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364234-cctv-captures-moment-driver-runs-over-drunk-swedish-tourist’s-head-outside-pattaya-bar/

Picture courtesy of พัทยา จุดเกิดเหตุ In the early hours of 20 June, an incident occurred outside a nightlife venue in Pattaya, Chonburi province, when a Swedish tourist, reportedly intoxicated and lying on the ground, was accidentally run over by a ride-hailing driver. CCTV footage from the scene shows the vehicle, operating under the well-known ride-hailing app Bolt, pulling up to collect passengers at approximately 03:20. The driver, unaware of the man lying unconscious on the ground directly in front of the venue, drove over him, with the vehicle’s wheel making direct contact with the tourist’s head. The injured individual was later confirmed to be a Swedish national, who appeared to have fallen asleep outside the establishment due to heavy intoxication. The driver, making a turn into the pick-up area, failed to notice the man on the ground. Rescue personnel from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation arrived quickly on the scene, administering emergency first aid before rushing the victim to Pattaya City Hospital for urgent medical treatment. In a commendable act of responsibility, the Bolt driver did not flee the scene and instead remained present, visibly shaken but cooperative. He gave a full statement to responding police officers and expressed his willingness to assist with the investigation. Authorities are now reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses to determine the full circumstances surrounding the event. Legal proceedings will follow as per standard protocol. Police have not yet released any details regarding potential charges. Adapted by ASEAN Now from พัทยา จุดเกิดเหตุ 2025-06-20

UPDATE Australian-Thai Couple Arrested in Udon Thani for Illegal Weapons Purchase Picture courtesy of Khaosod An Australian man and his Thai partner have been arrested by cyber police in Udon Thani for allegedly purchasing illegal firearms accessories, including gun silencers and military ordnance, via an online marketplace. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1363990-aussie-arrested-in-udon-thani-for-allegedly-buying-gun-silencers-online/#findComment-19884703

Thai-German Teen Drowns in Pattaya Reservoir Picture courtesy of SiamChon. Tragedy struck in Pattaya as a 15-year-old boy of Thai-German descent drowned in a reservoir near Nong Prue’s small airfield, near Horseshoe Point, in Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1364232-thai-german-teen-drowns-in-pattaya-reservoir/

Picture courtesy of SiamChon. Tragedy struck in Pattaya as a 15-year-old boy of Thai-German descent drowned in a reservoir near Nong Prue’s small airfield, near Horseshoe Point, in Bang Lamung district, Chonburi province. The Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Pattaya Rescue Centre received an emergency call at 20:05 on 19 June, reporting that a boy had gone missing underwater. Police Lieutenant Surachai Chuaykoon, Deputy Inspector of Nong Prue Police Station, quickly responded alongside rescue volunteers and the water operation team. Upon arrival, authorities were directed to the reservoir, approximately three metres deep, where the boy, identified only as “Jay”, had been swimming with friends since around 17:00. Eyewitnesses recounted that Jay appeared to suffer from leg cramps while swimming and began to struggle in the water. Despite desperate efforts by his friends to save him, the distance was too great, and the teenager sank before their eyes. The water rescue unit initiated a search and after approximately 20 minutes, the boy’s body was recovered from a depth of two metres. He was found face-down in the muddy bottom of the reservoir. Initial investigations by Lt. Surachai revealed no signs of foul play. It is believed that the boy, who had been in the water for over two hours, was overcome by muscle cramps while attempting to swim back to shore. His body has since been transferred to Pattaya Pathomkhun Hospital. In a heartbreaking moment, Jay’s mother, currently residing abroad, was shown the lifeless body of her son via a video call on a friend’s mobile phone. Overwhelmed with grief, she broke down in tears, a sight that left those present visibly shaken. Adapted by Asean Now from SiamChon 2025-06-20

Man Kills Dog at Hat Yai Temple, History of Animal Abuse, Mother Claims Mental Illness Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A disturbing act of animal cruelty at a temple in Hat Yai has sparked outrage among local residents and animal lovers after a man was caught on video brutally stomping a dog to death. The incident has since gone viral on social media, revealing the suspect has a history of similar behaviour. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364231-man-kills-dog-at-hat-yai-temple-history-of-animal-abuse-mother-claims-mental-illness/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A disturbing act of animal cruelty at a temple in Hat Yai has sparked outrage among local residents and animal lovers after a man was caught on video brutally stomping a dog to death. The incident has since gone viral on social media, revealing the suspect has a history of similar behaviour. The incident occurred at around 10:00 on 17 June at Wat Si Sawang Wong, also known as Wat Koh Suea, in central Hat Yai. A young man, dressed in black trousers and a long-sleeved shirt, was seen near the Dhamma practice hall of the temple, where he violently stomped on the neck of a white female dog. Monks and laypeople who were preparing for an ordination ceremony witnessed the attack and intervened. The man initially denied any wrongdoing, claiming he “did nothing.” However, the dog was found lying nearby, struggling to breathe. Witnesses urged the man to take the injured animal for treatment. He picked the dog up and left it in front of a monk’s residence. The dog later died due to the severity of its injuries. Further investigation revealed the man had lured the dog out from under a parked vehicle using food before carrying it behind the Dhamma hall, where the attack occurred. One of the witnesses, Mr. Nattawut Khantikaroh 29, who was residing at the temple while awaiting ordination, said he saw the man repeatedly circling the temple on a motorbike and found his behaviour suspicious. Local caretaker Mr. Wichit, also known as Uncle Wan, confirmed that the dog, named “Khao” and estimated to be 4–5 years old, was gentle and had never harmed anyone. “She was shy and only barked out of fear. She never chased or bit anyone,” he said. Khao was taken to a veterinarian immediately but could not be saved. Her body was later buried in a wooded area behind the temple. A formal complaint has been filed at Hat Yai Police Station, and locals are demanding justice. Shocking revelations have since emerged. On 10 June, the same man allegedly stole two young puppies, aged two and four months, from Wat Khlong Hae, located about 3 km away, and abandoned them at Wat Si Sawang Wong. The puppies were later found injured, coated in turmeric, with one suffering a broken leg and bleeding in the eye. The man’s mother eventually returned the puppies and paid for their treatment. The man, identified by his nickname “Kim Yong,” is 29 years old. His mother claims he suffers from psychiatric illness and has promised to admit him for treatment. However, despite her assurances, Kim Yong reoffended within just one week. Local authorities and animal welfare groups are calling for serious legal action and proper psychiatric intervention to prevent future harm. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-06-20

Man Killed After Lorry Slams into Rocket Festival Float in Uthai Thani Picture courtesy of Matichon. An incident occurred in Uthai Thani province on the afternoon of 19 June, when a 10-wheel lorry ploughed into the rear of a decorative float preparing for a local rocket festival, killing a 70-year-old man at the scene and injuring three others. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364230-man-killed-after-lorry-slams-into-rocket-festival-float-in-uthai-thani/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. An incident occurred in Uthai Thani province on the afternoon of 19 June, when a 10-wheel lorry ploughed into the rear of a decorative float preparing for a local rocket festival, killing a 70-year-old man at the scene and injuring three others. The fatal crash occurred around 15:00 on the Uthai Thani–Manorom Road, approximately one kilometre from the provincial city centre. Emergency services rushed to the scene following reports of a serious collision involving a festival procession vehicle and a lorry. The vehicle that was hit had been elaborately decorated for participation in the upcoming Bun Bang Fai (rocket festival) celebrations and had reportedly travelled from Roi Et province. It was struck from behind by a lorry registered in Nakhon Sawan, with the force of the impact causing the float to skid forward into a parked Honda saloon. Fortunately, no one was inside the car at the time. Rescuers discovered the lifeless body of a man, later identified only as “Phor Yai Boem”, aged 70, beneath the festival vehicle. Three others sustained injuries, two with minor wounds and one seriously hurt. All were taken to Uthai Thani Hospital. Preliminary investigations by police revealed that the deceased was the driver of the festival float. He had reportedly exited the vehicle to inspect the rear section just moments before the crash. Witnesses stated that he was beneath the float conducting checks when the lorry slammed into the back. Mr. Narachai, 26, who was travelling with the victim and others, said they had travelled together from Roi Et in a group of six to take part in the annual festival, scheduled to take place on 21–22 June at Thap Salao Reservoir in Lan Sak district. The group had stopped by the roadside to eat, just past Wat Tha Sung. While preparing to set off again, the victim was inspecting the float’s rear when the collision occurred. The lorry driver, Mr. Krisana 51, told police he was en route to pick up a rice delivery in Lat Yao district, Nakhon Sawan, accompanied by his wife and five-year-old daughter. He claimed that his daughter had handed him a phone from the back seat to request a cartoon and while turning to take the device, he failed to see the float ahead before colliding with it at speed. He denied consuming alcohol, but police have stated they will be conducting a breathalyser and drugs test, as the investigation continues. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-20

Drunken Husband Stabs Wife to Death After Being Refused Money for Alcohol Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A domestic incident has left a woman dead in Khon Kaen province after her husband, reportedly enraged at being refused money to buy alcohol, stabbed her in a fit of rage. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364229-drunken-husband-stabs-wife-to-death-after-being-refused-money-for-alcohol/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A domestic incident has left a woman dead in Khon Kaen province after her husband, reportedly enraged at being refused money to buy alcohol, stabbed her in a fit of rage. Police from the Mancha Khiri Police Station were alerted to a stabbing at a residence in Moo 1, Kut Khao subdistrict, Mancha Khiri district, Khon Kaen. Upon arrival, they found local residents restraining a man identified as Mr Thanom 60, who immediately confessed to stabbing his wife, 51-year-old Mrs Chalouay. According to Pol. Col. Teerathat Phongsuwan, superintendent of Mancha Khiri Police Station, the weapon used was a one-foot-long pointed kitchen knife, commonly kept for household tasks. It was found on a marble bench at the front of the house, stained with blood. Initial reports indicate that Mr Thanom, a heavy drinker known to consume five to six bottles of alcohol daily, flew into a rage when his wife refused to give him money to purchase more. The couple, who were known to argue frequently, had reportedly consumed alcohol prior to the incident. Mr Thanom was also described as intensely jealous and controlling. Mrs Chalouay suffered severe injuries to her lower abdomen and was first rushed to Mancha Khiri Hospital before being transferred to Khon Kaen Hospital. She succumbed to her injuries due to heavy blood loss. The couple’s son, 23-year-old Mr Veerachart, described the harrowing scene. He recalled hearing his mother call out for help, crying out his older brother’s name. Running from his room, he witnessed his father stabbing his mother from behind while restraining her. Together with his brother, they tried to wrestle the knife from their father, who continued to force the blade into their mother’s abdomen. Eventually, they succeeded in disarming him. Mr Veerachart said there had been no shouting or signs of a fight beforehand. While his parents often argued, he said he never imagined it would lead to such a violent outcome. His father, once a day labourer, had been unable to work after breaking his leg in a road crash. His mother had been the family’s sole breadwinner since. Mr Thanom was arrested at the scene and charged with murder, as well as carrying a weapon in a public place without reasonable cause. Police confirmed that he did not attempt to flee or conceal his crime. He remains in custody awaiting legal proceedings. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-06-20

Villagers Demand Justice After THB 8 Million Disappears from Local Welfare Fund in Surin Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Dozens of residents from Nong Khwao subdistrict, Sikhoraphum district in Surin province, have submitted a formal complaint after discovering that more than 8 million baht contributed to a long-running community welfare fund has vanished, with local leaders claiming the fund has been “dissolved.” Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364228-villagers-demand-justice-after-thb-8-million-disappears-from-local-welfare-fund-in-surin/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Dozens of residents from Nong Khwao subdistrict, Sikhoraphum district in Surin province, have submitted a formal complaint after discovering that more than 8 million baht contributed to a long-running community welfare fund has vanished, with local leaders claiming the fund has been “dissolved.” The villagers, led by Mr Theerawat (65), Mr Sai, and Ms Ratchanee, submitted a petition to Mr Natthaphon Phongpiyanurat, Chairman of the People’s Prosecutors Committee of Surin province. The petition calls for an investigation into the former village headman and three other individuals associated with the fund, officially known as the “Moral Merit Welfare Fund”, established in 2009. The fund was created by former village headman Mr Phun, who served as chairman, with Mr Phet, Mr Thalaengchai as deputy chairs and Mr Weeraphan as secretary. The fund’s purpose was to provide local welfare support under a formal charter that explicitly prohibited dissolution (Clause 29), and required clear accounting practices and public transparency. According to the complainants, no financial reports were ever provided to members, and disbursements were carried out in secrecy. The fund operated on a daily saving scheme of one baht per person, collected over six-month intervals. Despite the community’s consistent contributions, the fund leaders recently claimed the fund was empty and had been “disbanded.” Mr Theerawat recounted a particularly distressing episode at a funeral, where instead of receiving welfare support, his family was handed an empty envelope, which the fund’s representatives photographed to falsely document a disbursement. Villagers claim such incidents were not isolated. Repeated complaints had been made to local authorities, including the Sikhoraphum District Damrongtham Centre and the case was filed with Sikhoraphum Police Station. Attempts at mediation by the Surin Provincial Justice Office were unsuccessful, with officials citing the fund’s prior dissolution and lack of remaining funds. Community members, many of whom are elderly and unfamiliar with legal procedures, said they felt powerless. “We gave money all these years, but when we needed help, they said the fund was gone,” said one frustrated villager. Mr Natthaphon and a group of local prosecutors and legal advisors received the complaint and provided preliminary legal advice. They advised the petitioners to gather supporting documents, including expenditure records, official complaint logs, and correspondence with local and provincial justice offices. Officials have promised a full investigation into the allegations, vowing to uncover the truth and explore legal options to recover the lost funds and hold those responsible accountable. The villagers, although disheartened, expressed hope that their appeal for justice will not be ignored. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-06-20

Drug Suspect Caught After Neighbours Raise Concerns Over Lavish Lifestyle Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A 31-year-old man has been arrested in Prachuap Khiri Khan province after police raided his rented home and discovered over 700 methamphetamine pills, drug paraphernalia and multiple vehicles. The arrest followed complaints from concerned neighbours who questioned how the suspect, known only as “Ball,” could afford expensive motorcycles despite appearing unemployed. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364227-drug-suspect-caught-after-neighbours-raise-concerns-over-lavish-lifestyle/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A 31-year-old man has been arrested in Prachuap Khiri Khan province after police raided his rented home and discovered over 700 methamphetamine pills, drug paraphernalia and multiple vehicles. The arrest followed complaints from concerned neighbours who questioned how the suspect, known only as “Ball,” could afford expensive motorcycles despite appearing unemployed. Acting on a tip-off and a court-issued search warrant, officers from Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan Police Station and a special operations unit surrounded the three-storey commercial building in Ao Noi subdistrict, near an auto accessories shop. Residents had reported suspicious behaviour, noting that Ball kept to himself, rarely left the house and had reportedly been seen in possession of firearms. Most notably, he regularly rode a white BMW 650cc sport motorcycle worth over 500,000 baht, drawing the suspicion of neighbours due to his lack of visible income. When police arrived, they found a white Isuzu D-Max pickup, a black Honda Scoopy and the BMW motorbike parked in front of the building. Officers entered through a neighbouring property and accessed the second floor, where they found Ball, real name Mr. Apiwat, asleep with the door ajar and one foot visible from the hallway. He was arrested without resistance. A search of the premises revealed no firearms, though an empty 9mm ammunition box was discovered. Officers did, however, find 708 methamphetamine tablets stored in a pink container, along with foil and drug-taking equipment. Ball admitted during questioning that the drugs were his, stating that he used them both for personal consumption and for sale. He claimed the firearm once in his possession had belonged to his father and had since been returned to him. Police charged Ball with possession of a Category 1 narcotic (methamphetamine) with intent to sell, in violation of narcotics laws. The drugs and vehicles were seized as evidence, and the suspect was taken to Mueang Prachuap Khiri Khan Police Station for formal processing and prosecution. Authorities said the case highlights the importance of community vigilance and encouraged residents to report suspicious behaviour to local law enforcement. Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-06-20

Malaysian Tourists Overtake Chinese Visitors in Songkhla Picture courtesy of Kaoded. The number of Malaysian tourists entering Thailand has now surpassed that of Chinese tourists, according to data shared by Dr. Sitthipong Sitthiphatprapa, President of the Hatyai Songkhla Hotel Association. The figures, covering the period from 1 January to 8 June 2025, show that 2,041,002 Malaysian nationals visited, compared to 2,029,481 Chinese tourists, a shift that signals a notable decline in Chinese arrivals. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364226-malaysian-tourists-overtake-chinese-visitors-in-songkhla/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. The number of Malaysian tourists entering Thailand has now surpassed that of Chinese tourists, according to data shared by Dr. Sitthipong Sitthiphatprapa, President of the Hatyai Songkhla Hotel Association. The figures, covering the period from 1 January to 8 June 2025, show that 2,041,002 Malaysian nationals visited, compared to 2,029,481 Chinese tourists, a shift that signals a notable decline in Chinese arrivals. Dr. Sitthipong noted that while the volume of Malaysian tourists now exceeds that of Chinese visitors, it does not necessarily indicate a significant increase in arrivals from Malaysia. Rather, the relative gain is largely attributed to the downturn in Chinese tourist numbers, which have dropped sharply this year. In Songkhla province, including popular border town Sadao, tourism levels have remained steady overall, but hotel occupancy rates have declined. The drop is attributed to two key factors: 1. Many tourists are bypassing Songkhla and heading to other destinations within Thailand. 2. A rise in unlicensed daily rental accommodations, including illegal condo rentals and repurposed buildings, has fragmented the market and affected the formal hospitality sector. Dr. Sitthipong warned that this unchecked growth in the informal accommodation sector poses a risk to legal businesses and urged the government to enforce existing laws to ensure a level playing field. Spending habits among Malaysian visitors are also shifting. “We’ve observed that Malaysian tourists are spending less per person compared to previous years,” Dr. Sitthipong added. “It’s important that the government not only focuses on Chinese tourists, but also actively promotes tourism to the Malaysian market.” To capitalise on sustained interest from Malaysian travellers, who consistently express demand to visit Thailand, Dr. Sitthipong proposed a number of targeted measures to help Thailand reach 5 million Malaysian visitors by the end of 2025: 1. Streamline cross-border car entry by enabling online pre-registration, improving efficiency and reducing border wait times. 2. Abolish after-hours entry fees currently charged at land borders. 3. Allocate budgets to the private sector to host large-scale “Mega Events” to draw tourists. 4. Boost tourist spending by introducing VAT refund stations at key border crossings. 5. Expand tourism promotions in Malaysia, with bilingual signage and marketing materials in Thai and English to improve accessibility. “With proper government support and the right promotional strategies,” Dr. Sitthipong concluded, “we are confident that Malaysian tourist arrivals can be significantly increased beyond current levels.” Adapted by Asean Now from Koaded 2025-06-20

DSI Charges Seven Traffic Police Officers Over Assault on Former Officer’s Son Picture courtesy of Matichon. Seven traffic police officers have been formally charged under the recent anti-torture and enforced disappearance law for their role in the severe assault of a man wrongly suspected of evading a checkpoint. The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) and the Office of the Attorney General announced the decision following a high-level case review. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364225-dsi-charges-seven-traffic-police-officers-over-assault-on-former-officer’s-son/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Seven traffic police officers have been formally charged under the recent anti-torture and enforced disappearance law for their role in the severe assault of a man wrongly suspected of evading a checkpoint. The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) and the Office of the Attorney General announced the decision following a high-level case review. The incident, which took place in 2024, involved the assault of Mr. Thananop Kerdsri, the son of a former police officer. He was allegedly mistaken for another individual who had fled a police checkpoint. The assault left him with serious physical and psychological injuries. At a press briefing at DSI headquarters on Chaeng Watthana Road, Mr. Watcharin Phanurat, Deputy Director-General of the Office of Special Investigation, and Mr. Angsuketi Wisutwattanasak, Director of the Justice Affairs Division, announced that the officers would face charges under Section 5 of the 2022 Prevention and Suppression of Torture and Enforced Disappearance Act. The section criminalises acts by state officials that inflict severe pain or suffering on others, physically or mentally. The seven officers include one police captain, five police sergeants, and one police corporal, all from the Traffic Police Division. They have been summoned to formally hear the charges on 9 July at 09:00. According to Mr. Watcharin, extensive evidence had been reviewed, including CCTV footage and body camera recordings, which clearly showed the officers forcibly apprehending Mr. Thananop, handcuffing him and physically assaulting him. Crucially, no officer attempted to intervene or stop the assault, leading investigators to conclude that the violence was a joint action. Investigators dismissed potential charges under other sections of the law, including Section 6 (cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment), Section 7 (unlawful detention without notification), and Section 22 (failure to report detention), citing that Mr. Thananop was eventually taken to hospital and that his sister arrived at the scene, thus negating the intent to conceal his whereabouts. No charges will be brought against the superior officers of the accused, as investigators found that appropriate disciplinary and legal actions were already initiated, including preliminary dismissal from service. Under Section 5 of the anti-torture law, the officers could face up to 15 years in prison. The case is also being considered under Section 172 of the Organic Act on Anti-Corruption (2018). Mr. Watcharin added that while the accused officers have the legal right to present a defence and provide evidence, the DSI will proceed to forward the case to the Office of the Attorney General’s anti-corruption division for prosecution in the Central Criminal Court for Corruption and Misconduct Cases. He noted that although the courts may consider reparations and victim compensation as mitigating factors during sentencing, the victim in this case has expressed a firm intention to pursue full legal action. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-06-20