Georgealbert

Picture from responders. A violent dispute between neighbours in Aranyaprathet district, Sa Kaeo province, ended when a man fatally attacked his acquaintance with a machete before taking his own life by ingesting pesticide. The incident occurred on 22 March in the village of Ban Suan Udom, Fak Huai subdistrict. Rescue teams from the Aranyaprathet Foundation were alerted by local police after reports of a fatal assault. Police investigators, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Kittiphat Khajornphongchaikun, arrived at the scene alongside forensic officers and medical personnel from Aranyaprathet Hospital. They discovered the body of Kritsanatharn Khemthit, 63, who had suffered deep machete wounds to his neck and left arm. Eyewitnesses identified the suspect as Kittichai Saikao, 49, a resident of the same village. According to initial investigations, the two men, who were acquainted, had been involved in an escalating conflict that led to the deadly attack. A machete, believed to be the murder weapon, was recovered at the scene. Later that afternoon, at approximately 15:05, emergency services were called back to Ban Suan Udom following reports of a man who had ingested pesticide in an apparent suicide attempt. Upon arrival, rescuers found Kittichai unconscious, foaming at the mouth, and unresponsive. He was immediately transported to Aranyaprathet Hospital, where doctors attempted resuscitation. Despite efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Authorities have confirmed that Kittichai was the same individual responsible for Kritsanatharn’s murder. Police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances that led to the fatal altercation. Officers have urged local residents to come forward with any additional information that may provide further insight into the dispute. -- 2025-03-24

Man Arrested for Arson at Satun School Amid Drug-Induced Hallucinations Police have arrested a 38-year-old man suspected of deliberately setting fire to a school in Satun province. The suspect, identified as Thanit Nuthongkaew, was found to be under the influence of drugs at the time of the incident, with a urine test confirming the presence of narcotics. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355542-man-arrested-for-arson-at-satun-school-amid-drug-induced-hallucinations/

Picture from responders. Police have arrested a 38-year-old man suspected of deliberately setting fire to a school in Satun province. The suspect, identified as Thanit Nuthongkaew, was found to be under the influence of drugs at the time of the incident, with a urine test confirming the presence of narcotics. The fire broke out late at night on 22 March, at Nikom Phatthana Phang 42 School in Udaicharoen, Khuan Kalong district. Authorities reported that six separate locations within the school were set ablaze, causing significant damage. However, thanks to the swift response of responders, school staff and local residents, the fires were extinguished before spreading further. Following the incident, authorities reviewed CCTV footage, which showed a man entering the school at 23:10 and moving towards the rear of the premises. Police later arrested Thanit at his home, approximately 300 metres from the school. Officers reported that he appeared confused and incoherent at the time of his arrest. Local officials revealed that Thanit was a known drug user who had previously exhibited erratic behaviour. This was the second time he had targeted the school, with a previous incident involving vandalism. Witnesses also recalled occasions when he had wandered onto school grounds carrying a machete, forcing the 60 students to seek shelter indoors. His grandfather, Thin Nuthongkaew, expressed concern over his behaviour, stating that Thanit frequently experienced severe hallucinations, believing that stones he collected were sacred relics. “He stays outside most nights, talking to himself and refusing to sleep indoors,” Thin said. “Everyone in the family is afraid of him, but we don’t know where else he can go.” Thanit had been arrested once before on drug-related charges but had never undergone rehabilitation. Following the incident, Satun Deputy Governor Kanit Kongchuay visited the school to reassure staff and students. He urged schools across the province to remain vigilant and implement emergency response plans in case of similar threats. “Thanks to the quick thinking of teachers, parents, and local residents, the damage was contained,” he said. “But all schools must stay alert and report any suspicious activity immediately.” Police have taken Thanit into custody at Khuan Kalong Police Station for further questioning as they continue their investigation into the motive behind the attack. -- 2025-03-24

Doctor Found Dead Under Mysterious Circumstances in Thonglor Condo Picture courtesy of Matichon. A doctor from a well-known hospital in the Sukhumvit area was found dead in his bed at a condominium in Thonglor on the morning of 23 March. Authorities reported that the 37-year-old man, identified as Dr Prakij, was discovered by a close brother-like friend and colleagues after failing to show up for work. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355541-doctor-found-dead-under-mysterious-circumstances-in-thonglor-condo/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A doctor from a well-known hospital in the Sukhumvit area was found dead in his bed at a condominium in Thonglor on the morning of 23 March. Authorities reported that the 37-year-old man, identified as Dr Prakij, was discovered by a close brother-like friend and colleagues after failing to show up for work. At 08:35 on 23 March, Pol. Lt. Anwa Issa, an investigator from Thonglor Police Station, received a report of a deceased male at a condominium on Soi Thonglor 5, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana District, Bangkok. Police and emergency responders arrived at the scene to find Dr Prakij lying lifeless on his bed. There were no signs of a struggle or forced entry. However, authorities noted that his shorts had bloodstains on them, prompting further investigation. According to the doctor’s close friend and colleagues, they last attempted to contact him around 21:00 the previous evening but received no response. Concerned his friend called the hospital the following morning, which confirmed that he had not shown up and could not be reached. His close friend then rushed to the condo, used a key card to gain entry, and found him unresponsive. Emergency services were immediately contacted. Thonglor police have called in forensic experts from Chulalongkorn Hospital and crime scene investigators to determine the exact cause of death. The presence of bloodstains on his clothing has raised further questions, and police are awaiting forensic results before making any conclusions. The body has been sent for autopsy, and authorities will continue their investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding Dr Prakij’s death. -- 2025-03-24

Street Cleaner in Shock After Discovering Woman’s Body Under Mango Tree Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A street cleaner in Udon Thani was left in shock after what appeared to be a discarded doll turned out to be the lifeless body of a young woman. The grim discovery was made early morning on 23 March, under a mango tree near a apartment block, in the Makkhang area of Mueang Udon Thani district. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355540-street-cleaner-in-shock-after-discovering-woman’s-body-under-mango-tree/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A street cleaner in Udon Thani was left in shock after what appeared to be a discarded doll turned out to be the lifeless body of a young woman. The grim discovery was made early morning on 23 March, under a mango tree near a apartment block, in the Makkhang area of Mueang Udon Thani district. At around 06:30, Police Lieutenant Vilasinee Asanam, an investigator at Mueang Udon Thani Police Station, received a report from a municipal street cleaner about a woman found hanged under a mango tree. Officers, along with rescue workers from Sawang Methatham Foundation and a medical examiner from Udon Thani Central Hospital, rushed to the scene. The deceased was identified as Miss Thanaporn, a 20-year-old woman who was blind in her left eye. She was found wearing a long-sleeved shirt and a short skirt, with signs suggesting she had died the previous evening. Upon searching her rented room, police discovered her identification card, a disability certificate, and medication for anxiety treatment, leading to speculation that she may have suffered from depression. A lost ID report was also found in the room, bearing the name of a 27-year-old man, Mr. Tasporn, believed to be her boyfriend. However, a key piece of evidence remains missing. CCTV cameras installed at the scene were found to be non-functional, leaving authorities uncertain whether the woman’s death was a case of suicide or foul play. A resident of the apartment complex recalled seeing the woman’s boyfriend arrive on a motorcycle around 20:00 the previous night, calling out her name. This was a common occurrence, with the boyfriend often visiting. However, on this occasion, he only called once and was not seen again. Mrs. Damrongsin, a 54-year-old municipal street cleaner, recounted her shocking experience. “I was sweeping as usual when I noticed something hanging from the mango tree. At first, I thought it was a doll. But as I got closer, I realised it was a person. I was terrified and ran to tell my husband, who was working nearby, to call the authorities immediately. I’ve never seen anything like this in my life, I still have goosebumps.” Authorities have taken the woman’s body to Udon Thani Central Hospital for further examination. Meanwhile, police plan to summon the woman’s boyfriend for questioning to determine the exact circumstances of her death. The case remains under investigation. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai) or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress or depression. Seek out help. -- 2025-03-24

Teen Caught Red-Handed Cutting Motorway Power Cables, Admits Father Involved Picture courtesy of Matichon. A teenager has been caught in the act of stealing power cables along the motorway in Chonburi, admitting that his own father had brought him to commit the crime. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355538-teen-caught-red-handed-cutting-motorway-power-cables-admits-father-involved/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A teenager has been caught in the act of stealing power cables along the motorway in Chonburi, admitting that his own father had brought him to commit the crime. On 23 March, officers from Highway Police Division 8, led by Pol Col Kukkong Disawat, arrested an 18-year-old suspect, identified only as “Ek”, on charges of stealing public infrastructure. The arrest took place on the shoulder of Motorway 7, at kilometre marker 0+500, heading towards Chonburi city. The police seized stolen power cables and cutting tools as evidence. Authorities had been patrolling the motorway when they received an alert from the traffic control centre about a suspicious individual tampering with electrical infrastructure near kilometre marker 1+300. Upon arrival, officers found the suspect actively pulling and cutting power cables used for motorway lighting. When approached, the suspect attempted to flee but was swiftly apprehended. During questioning, the suspect confessed that his father had picked him up on a motorcycle and brought him to the location to carry out the theft. His father allegedly instructed him to cut the cables while he waited under a nearby bridge, approximately 100 metres from the crime scene. The teenager further admitted that this was not the first time they had committed such an offence. The suspect has been handed over to Mueang Chonburi Police Station for further legal proceedings. -- 2025-03-24

Labour Minister Cracks Down on Illegal Foreign Workers, Pushes for Legal Registration Picture courtesy of Matichon. Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling illegal migrant workers while promoting lawful employment registration. The minister stated that the “Traithep Pitak” special task force had recently conducted operations in Nonthaburi and Chonburi, resulting in the arrest of 34 illegal migrant workers. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355537-labour-minister-cracks-down-on-illegal-foreign-workers-pushes-for-legal-registration/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling illegal migrant workers while promoting lawful employment registration. The minister stated that the “Traithep Pitak” special task force had recently conducted operations in Nonthaburi and Chonburi, resulting in the arrest of 34 illegal migrant workers. The Ministry of Labour aims to strike a balance between the demand for foreign workers in industries such as tourism and construction and the need to protect job opportunities for Thai nationals. Minister Phiphat stressed that while migrant workers are an essential part of the economy, they must comply with Thai labour laws and refrain from taking jobs reserved for Thai citizens. During the latest enforcement operation, 19 undocumented workers were arrested in Nonthaburi and 15 in Chonburi, all of whom face legal action and deportation. The crackdown was carried out in coordination with the Department of Employment, provincial authorities, and security agencies. The penalties for illegal employment include: • Fines of between 5,000 and 50,000 baht for workers without valid work permits, along with deportation. • Fines of 10,000 to 100,000 baht per worker for employers hiring illegal workers. • Repeat offenders face up to one year in prison, fines of 50,000 to 200,000 baht, and a three-year ban on hiring foreign workers. Minister Phiphat reiterated that the government’s approach is not solely focused on enforcement but also on creating a clear and sustainable labour policy. Employers are encouraged to hire foreign workers legally through the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) system, which ensures compliance with Thai labour laws and fair employment practices. “We will no longer allow illegal workers to undermine Thailand’s labour market. Employers must ensure their workers are properly registered, and all foreign workers must understand that Thai labour laws clearly designate certain occupations as exclusive to Thai nationals. Compliance is mandatory,” Minister Phiphat stated. The Ministry of Labour will continue nationwide inspections and welcomes information from the public to safeguard the stability and fairness of Thailand’s job market. -- 2025-03-24

Fire Destroys Homes in Pattaya, Injuring Two Residents A fire broke out in a residential area of Soi Thung Klom-Tan Man 15, Nong Prue, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi, at approximately 13:00 on 23 March. The incident prompted an emergency response from Nong Prue police and fire engines from the municipal fire department, along with rescue teams from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355536-fire-destroys-homes-in-pattaya-injuring-two-residents/

Picture from responders. A fire broke out in a residential area of Soi Thung Klom-Tan Man 15, Nong Prue, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi, at approximately 13:00 on 23 March. The incident prompted an emergency response from Nong Prue police and fire engines from the municipal fire department, along with rescue teams from the Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation. Upon arrival, firefighters found a row of semi-concrete, semi-wooden houses with corrugated metal roofs engulfed in flames. The fire was spreading rapidly, producing thick smoke that forced authorities to evacuate over 20 residents to safety. Firefighters battled the blaze for more than 45 minutes before bringing it under control. Initial assessments revealed that several homes were completely destroyed, with all belongings inside reduced to ashes. Two residents suffered burns while attempting to retrieve items from their homes. The injured were identified as Mr. Uthai Nampasop, 44, who sustained burns on his right forearm and face, and Ms. Srisuda Prajothanang, 40, who suffered burns to both hands. Mr. Uthai, a construction contractor and owner of one of the damaged homes, recounted the moment the fire started. He had been working inside his house with headphones on when he heard an explosion. Turning around, he saw flames erupting near a storage area where his child’s milk cartons were kept. The fire spread quickly, consuming construction materials, a motorbike, and household items before he could react. Local residents reported hearing two loud explosions before flames rapidly engulfed the area. Police have launched an investigation and will work with forensic specialists to determine the cause of the fire. Authorities have yet to confirm whether the explosions were linked to electrical faults or other potential sources. Further inspections will be conducted to establish the exact cause of the blaze. -- 2025-03-24

Gun Dealer Opens Fire on Police in Sting Operation, Surrenders After Manhunt Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A suspected illegal arms dealer has surrendered to police after opening fire on undercover officers during a sting operation in Bangkok. The suspect, who initially fled the scene, claimed he did not believe the officers were real police. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355535-gun-dealer-opens-fire-on-police-in-sting-operation-surrenders-after-manhunt/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A suspected illegal arms dealer has surrendered to police after opening fire on undercover officers during a sting operation in Bangkok. The suspect, who initially fled the scene, claimed he did not believe the officers were real police. The arrest follows an operation led by Pol Maj Gen Kiattikul Sonthenare, commander of the Metropolitan Police Division 3, alongside senior officers and an investigative team. The operation aimed to dismantle a network selling illegal firearms online. However, when officers attempted to make an arrest, one suspect fired multiple shots, injuring a police officer and an undercover informant before escaping. The confrontation occurred at a house in Soi Kanchanaphisek 9, Yaek 7, Khan Na Yao district. During the raid, one suspect managed to escape, sparking a citywide manhunt. At around 06:30 on 23 March, police arrested Theppitak, also known as “Mai”, 47, at Bang Kruai Police Station in Nonthaburi after he turned himself in. Officers seized a .38 Smith & Wesson revolver with a registered serial number and a black leather gun holster. He later led police to his residence in Soi Nimitmai 40, Khlong Sam Wa, where additional weapons were found. According to the investigation, Theppitak was part of an illegal firearm sales operation along with his associate, Michai or “Tum”, and Tum’s wife, “Tuk”. The group allegedly sold firearms via Facebook, with handguns priced at 35,000 baht. A police informant successfully arranged to purchase a .38 revolver, paying 5,000 baht in cash upfront, with the remaining amount to be transferred later. On the night of the operation, undercover officers and an informant met with Tum at the agreed location in an alley. Tum retrieved the firearm from a white Toyota Corolla Cross, where Theppitak and Tuk were waiting. After confirming the gun’s authenticity, the officers moved in to make an arrest. However, as soon as police identified themselves, Tum fled, and Theppitak drew a concealed firearm, firing three shots. One bullet grazed an officer’s left arm, while another struck the informant. A third shot was fired at another officer providing cover. In response, police returned fire, prompting Theppitak to flee in his car. Following intense pressure from the authorities, Theppitak later surrendered at Bang Kruai Police Station. During questioning, he admitted that he and Tum had been selling guns, a trade they became involved in after meeting in Klong Prem Prison. Theppitak insisted he fired at officers because he did not believe they were real police. After his surrender, police searched Theppitak’s residence and recovered multiple firearms, including: • 9mm CZ Rami semi-automatic pistol • 9mm CZ 75 semi-automatic pistol • 9mm Beretta 92F semi-automatic pistol • .22 revolver The suspect now faces multiple charges, including: 1. Illegal possession of firearms and ammunition 2. Carrying firearms in public without a permit 3. Discharging a firearm in a public place without cause 4. Illegal firearm distribution 5. Attempted murder of a police officer He has been handed over to investigators at Khan Na Yao Police Station for further legal proceedings. -- 2025-03-24

Collision Claims Lives of Two Siblings in Buriram A devastating road crash in Buriram has claimed the lives of two young siblings after an SUV veered across lanes and collided with their motorcycle. The incident occurred on the evening of 22 March along a two-lane road in Ban Yang Ngam, Thung Wang Subdistrict, Satuek District. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355534-collision-claims-lives-of-two-siblings-in-buriram/

Pictures from responders. A devastating road crash in Buriram has claimed the lives of two young siblings after an SUV veered across lanes and collided with their motorcycle. The incident occurred on the evening of 22 March along a two-lane road in Ban Yang Ngam, Thung Wang Subdistrict, Satuek District. The driver, Ms. Pirun Prasertdee, 43, was behind the wheel of a red Toyota Fortuner with her two sons, aged 12 and 2, as passengers. Reports initially suggested that the crash resulted from the toddler playing with the steering wheel, while sat on her lap, causing the vehicle to swerve into the path of the victims, 13-year-old Nathumon (“Money”) and 9-year-old Punyapat (“Namo”). Both children were fatally struck, with the vehicles both ending in a road side pond. However, Ms. Pirun has since refuted these claims, asserting that her two-year-old was seated in a car seat and not interfering with the controls. She stated that at the time of the crash, her youngest child became frightened and then vomited, leading her to momentarily instruct her older son to fetch tissues. She insists that the crash was unavoidable, speculating that the victims might have suddenly emerged onto the road. The grandmother of the deceased children, Ms. Thongchan, witnessed the crash and gave a heart-wrenching account, saying she saw the vehicle speeding before crossing into the opposite lane and hitting her grandchildren. According to her, the driver initially admitted that the toddler had pulled at the wheel, but later retracted the statement. Adding to the controversy, the SUV was found to have front and rear cameras, yet no footage of the crash was available. Ms. Pirun admitted to removing the memory card before presenting it to authorities, where it was found to have missing footage from the time of the crash. Authorities confirmed that the vehicle was covered by compulsory and voluntary insurance, which could result in compensation exceeding three million baht. Ms. Pirun has expressed her willingness to provide full financial support to the victims’ family. Meanwhile, the children’s grieving grandmother has voiced concerns over securing justice due to financial constraints, though local police have assured her of a fair investigation. The case continues to be investigated, with authorities examining the circumstances surrounding the crash and the missing footage. -- 2025-03-24

Pictures courtesy of ThaiRath. Authorities have shut down a well-known nightclub in Sam Phran district, Nakhon Pathom, for five years following a major police raid that uncovered widespread drug use, illegal alcohol sales, and unlicensed operations. The operation, named “Singh Dap Saeng #Neon” , was carried out at Neon Club in the early hours of 23 March. The raid followed numerous complaints from local residents about excessive noise, after-hours operations, and drug-related activities at the venue. At approximately 03:00, Chaiwat Chuntirapong, Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration, and his deputy, Ronarong Tipsiri, led a special operations team to surround and search the nightclub. Upon entering, officers found the venue in full swing, with over 200 clubgoers partying in a tightly enclosed space filled with loud music, flashing lights, and a heavy atmosphere of cigarette smoke and alcohol consumption. As soon as the authorities cut the music and switched on the lights, chaos erupted. Several patrons attempted to dispose of illegal substances, while others attempted to flee through a hidden exit near the toilets. However, officers had secured all exits and proceeded to conduct a thorough search of the premises. The raid resulted in the seizure of a variety of illegal drugs, including methamphetamine (yaba), crystal meth (ice), ecstasy, and ketamine, which were found scattered across the venue and in the VIP rooms. Authorities also discovered untaxed alcohol and e-cigarettes hidden in storage containers. During routine checks, two suspicious individuals were found carrying 9mm firearms loaded with full magazines. Upon questioning, they claimed to be undercover police officers investigating drug activity. However, their identities were not immediately verified, and they were taken in for further interrogation while awaiting confirmation from their commanding officers. A total of 212 patrons were present at the time of the raid. Authorities conducted drug tests and found that 81 individuals, 49 men and 32 women, tested positive for illegal substances. They were taken in for further legal proceedings. Investigators confirmed that Neon Club was operating without a valid entertainment licence, violating multiple laws, including: • Running an unlicensed entertainment venue • Selling alcohol outside of legal hours • Allowing drug use within the premises The club had previously operated under a different name, Tag Pub, in a neighbouring province. It had been shut down for similar violations but later reopened under the name Neon Club in Nakhon Pathom, using much of the same equipment and setup from the previous establishment. Due to these repeated offences, the Governor of Nakhon Pathom has ordered the immediate closure of the nightclub for a period of five years, in accordance with Section 22 of the 2015 National Council for Peace and Order (NCPO) directive. Authorities are continuing investigations into both the nightclub’s operators and the individuals found in possession of firearms. Further legal action will be taken against the club owner, managers, and any officials found complicit in allowing the illegal activities to continue. The raid is part of Thailand’s broader crackdown on nightlife establishments violating licensing laws and contributing to the spread of drug-related crimes. -- 2025-03-22

Police Raid Illegal Nightclub in Nakhon Pathom, 81 Drug-Positive Revelers Detained Pictures courtesy of ThaiRath. Authorities have shut down a well-known nightclub in Sam Phran district, Nakhon Pathom, for five years following a major police raid that uncovered widespread drug use, illegal alcohol sales, and unlicensed operations. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355509-police-raid-illegal-nightclub-in-nakhon-pathom-81-drug-positive-revelers-detained/

These are dash-cam footage of the crash. Authorities have confirmed that there were no serious injuries and all casualties were discharged after treatment. Another dash-cash courtesy of Phuketinsta 2090683382528297645.mp4

German Crashes BMW into Parked Vehicles in Phuket A German national lost control of his BMW in the early hours of the morning of 22 March, careering across the central reservation and crashing into parked pickup trucks in Rawai, causing significant damage to vehicles and roadside property. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355494-german-crashes-bmw-into-parked-vehicles-in-phuket/

Pictures from responders. A German national lost control of his BMW in the early hours of the morning of 22 March, careering across the central reservation and crashing into parked pickup trucks in Rawai, causing significant damage to vehicles and roadside property. The crash occurred at approximately 04:00, in front of the Siamchai store, opposite Suksan 1 Alley on Wiset Road. Police from Chalong Police Station, led by Pol. Lt. Col. Prasit Rahob, arrived at the scene to investigate. The vehicle involved was a BMW with Phuket registration, driven by Mr. Moritz Harald Hick, a 24-year-old German national. His passenger, Mr. Anton Augsten, also 24 and German, sustained injuries. Emergency services transported both to Chalong Hospital for treatment. The impact severely damaged two Isuzu D-Max pickup trucks belonging to Siamchai, a local business. The trucks were parked outside the store at the time of the crash. In addition, a large road sign, the Siamchai storefront sign, and other property sustained damage. According to witnesses, the BMW was travelling at high speed from Suksan 1 Alley when it reached the intersection. Instead of braking and turning left as expected, the vehicle ploughed straight across the central reservation into the opposite lane, slamming into the parked vehicles. Authorities are now investigating the circumstances of the crash, including whether speeding, reckless driving, or other factors, alcohol or drugs contributed to the incident. Given the early hour, it was lucky no other injuries were reported, but the damage to vehicles and property is substantial. Police will interview the driver once he is discharged from the hospital to determine possible legal consequences. -- 2025-03-23

Tourist Bus Overturns in Phuket: 20 Injured A tourist bus carrying around 38 Russian passengers lost control and overturned on the winding road between Kamala and Kuan Yak Junction in Kathu district, Phuket. The crash, which occurred during the afternoon of 22 March, was reported to be caused by brake failure as the vehicle descended a steep curve, leading to multiple injuries. Bystanders were seen trying to break windows to assist passengers. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355476-tourist-bus-overturns-in-phuket-20-injured/

Picture from responders. A tourist bus carrying around 38 Russian passengers lost control and overturned on the winding road between Kamala and Kuan Yak Junction in Kathu district, Phuket. The crash, which occurred during the afternoon of 22 March, was reported to be caused by brake failure as the vehicle descended a steep curve, leading to multiple injuries. Bystanders were seen trying to break windows to assist passengers. Emergency response teams quickly arrived at the scene, working to extract injured passengers from the wreckage. Initial reports indicate that approximately 20 people sustained injuries, though none have been reported as life-threatening. The injured have been transported to Patong Hospital by emergency rescue units from the Kusoldharm Foundation. Authorities deployed a crane to remove the overturned bus, and the Kamala Subdistrict Administrative Organisation (SAO) has taken measures to mitigate further risks by spreading sand over oil spills on the road surface. Local Member of Parliament, Chalermpong Saengdee, who represents Phuket’s 2nd constituency, visited the scene along with his team to coordinate assistance efforts. Kamala’s emergency medical team was among the first responders, initially transporting five injured passengers to hospital. Additional ambulance units from the Narenthorn Emergency Medical Service Centre and nearby facilities were called in to support the operation, as a significant number of tourists suffered minor injuries. Authorities are now investigating the exact cause of the crash, with particular focus on the bus’s braking system and overall vehicle maintenance. Tour operators and transportation services have been urged to conduct thorough safety checks to prevent similar incidents on Phuket’s challenging mountain roads. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by steep and curving routes frequently used by tourist transport in Phuket. Authorities continue to monitor the situation and provide necessary support to those affected. -- 2025-03-22 Video courtesy of Phuketinsta. -8826820747934941464.mp4