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Picture courtesy of Matichon. Environmental police, in coordination with the Department of Industrial Works, have raided a clandestine factory in Bang Pahan district, Ayutthaya province, uncovering a massive illegal stockpile of electronic waste and car parts weighing over 256 tonnes. The operation was led by Pol. Lt. Gen. Watcharin Pusit, Commander of the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Division (NRECD), who directed his team, including senior officers from Division 2 of the NRECD and provincial industry officials, to inspect the premises located in Village 6 of Bang Pahan sub-district. The investigation followed the arrest earlier this month of a 48-year-old man, Mr Sarawut, for illegal possession of hazardous materials, including electronic components and batteries containing mercury, without the required permits, in violation of Thailand’s Hazardous Substances Act. He was charged and handed over to Khlong Luang Police Station for prosecution. Further inquiry into the origin of the waste led authorities to the company in Bang Pahan. Upon inspection, officials discovered a facility operating under the guise of a material-sorting business for non-hazardous waste. The company was managed by a Chinese national, who holds the position of managing director and was present during the search. Initial findings revealed a large warehouse filled with industrial-scale machinery. Outside the building, investigators found towering piles of electronic scrap, vehicle parts, and contaminated oil drums. The total volume of waste exceeded 256 tonnes. Authorities seized the materials as evidence and have initiated legal proceedings through Bang Pahan Police Station. Investigations are ongoing to determine the full extent of the illegal operations and whether additional environmental or criminal offences were committed. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-12.

Teenager Killed in Crash After Motorbike Group Panics at Police Presence in Nonthaburi Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A 16-year-old boy was killed in a crash during the early hours of 11 May, after a group of teenage motorcyclists reportedly panicked at the sight of a police patrol, resulting in a collision with a pickup truck on Highway 9 in Nonthaburi province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360404-teenager-killed-in-crash-after-motorbike-group-panics-at-police-presence-in-nonthaburi/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A 16-year-old boy was killed in a crash during the early hours of 11 May, after a group of teenage motorcyclists reportedly panicked at the sight of a police patrol, resulting in a collision with a pickup truck on Highway 9 in Nonthaburi province. The fatal crash occurred at approximately 01:45, near the Phra Udom canal in Khlong Khoi sub-district, Pak Kret district. Officers from Chaiyaphruek Police Station, along with rescue workers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation and the Buaphet Nonthaburi Rescue Association, responded to the scene. The deceased, identified as Mr. Watcharapong Dongsingh, 16, was found lying on the road with severe abdominal injuries. His internal organs had been exposed due to the force of the impact ripping him open. Nearby, a white and red Honda Wave motorcycle, registered in Bangkok, lay on its side. About 50 metres from the scene, officers discovered a silver Mitsubishi pickup truck with damage to its front and left wing mirror. The driver, Mr. Somkiat Mingsantia, 43, remained at the scene and cooperated fully with the police. According to Mr. Somkiat, he was transporting fresh seafood from Maha Chai to Nakhon Ratchasima when the crash occurred. He reported that 5–6 motorbikes emerged from beneath a bridge and swerved onto the main lane after spotting a police patrol vehicle with flashing lights parked at the roadside. One of the bikes suddenly veered into his path, giving him no time to brake or avoid the collision. His truck clipped the motorcycle before he was able to steer the vehicle to safety at the side of the road. Police officers stated that initial evidence suggests the group of teenagers panicked upon seeing the police patrol, prompting a sudden and unsafe manoeuvre that led to the fatal crash. Officers are currently reviewing nearby CCTV footage to determine the precise sequence of events. There is also the possibility that the deceased may have been run over again by another vehicle, as there were no visible traces of blood on Mr. Somkiat’s truck. The body of Mr. Watcharapong has been transferred to the Institute of Forensic Medicine for examination. The investigation remains ongoing. Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-05-12.

Man Strangles Girlfriend After Holiday Row, Spends Day With Body Before Turning Himself In Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 31-year-old man has been arrested and charged with murder after he admitted to strangling his girlfriend following a domestic dispute and spending the day with her body in their air-conditioned rented room in Phitsanulok. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360403-man-strangles-girlfriend-after-holiday-row-spends-day-with-body-before-turning-himself-in/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 31-year-old man has been arrested and charged with murder after he admitted to strangling his girlfriend following a domestic dispute and spending the day with her body in their air-conditioned rented room in Phitsanulok. The suspect, named as Mr Surasak, who is known locally as “Pae Colour” within the car enthusiast community, confessed to killing 28-year-old Ms Kritikan after a heated argument escalated into violence. The couple had just returned from a holiday on Koh Chang and were staying together in a rented single-storey room in Moo 3, Ban Khlong Subdistrict, Mueang District. According to investigators from Mueang Phitsanulok Police Station, the incident occurred on the morning of 10 May. During yet another argument, Surasak claimed that Ms Kritikan challenged him, allegedly telling him to “kill her if he dared.” He initially strangled her with his hands, then used a phone charger cable to tighten the pressure around her neck, resulting in her death. After the killing, Surasak did not immediately flee the scene. Instead, he sat beside her body for most of the day with the air conditioning left running. He told police that he contemplated suicide but lacked the courage. In an attempt to gather resolve, he left the room around 17:00 to purchase beer, hoping intoxication would help him take his own life. However, he eventually abandoned the idea and surrendered to police later that evening. Police were first alerted to the situation by friends and co-workers of the victim, who had grown concerned when she failed to show up for work and could not be reached. Upon entering the property, authorities discovered Ms Kritikan’s body lying in the room, clothed only in underwear, with visible bruises on her neck, back and arms. There were no signs of a struggle at the scene. Surasak was arrested without resistance and is reported to have fully confessed. He is currently being held in custody and faces charges of murder. Police sources have confirmed that Surasak has a history of aggressive behaviour in previous relationships. Friends of the victim had expressed concerns about his volatile temper and had warned her about continuing the relationship. Ms Kritikan had only been dating Surasak for a short time. She worked at a local department store and was described by friends as kind-hearted and cheerful. The investigation is ongoing, and police say they will be collecting further evidence to support the prosecution. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-12.

Ten Injured After Minivan Crashes En Route from Bangkok to Sisaket for Election Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Ten people travelling in a hired minivan from Bangkok to Sisaket to vote in the local election were injured early morning on 11 May, when the vehicle veered off the road, struck a streetlight, and crashed into a central ditch in Buriram province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360402-ten-injured-after-minivan-crashes-en-route-from-bangkok-to-sisaket-for-election/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Ten people travelling in a hired minivan from Bangkok to Sisaket to vote in the local election were injured early morning on 11 May, when the vehicle veered off the road, struck a streetlight, and crashed into a central ditch in Buriram province. The accident occurred at around 07:00, on Route 24 (Chok Chai–Det Udom Road), in front of the Nong Bot Subdistrict Administrative Organisation office, inbound to Nang Rong district. Police investigator Pol Lt Chalermchai Nenathorn from Nang Rong Police Station received the emergency call and dispatched rescue teams from Siam Ruam Jai Pu In Foundation to the scene. Rescuers found a silver Toyota minivan, registered in Bangkok, lying on its side in the central reservation. The driver’s side front section was damaged and the windshield was shattered. All ten occupants, including the driver, managed to crawl out of the wreck and were calling for help. Preliminary investigations revealed that the group of nine passengers had hired the van in Bangkok and departed at around 21:00 the previous evening. They were en route to Kantharalak district in Sisaket province, hoping to arrive by morning to cast their votes. Authorities are conducting further inquiries to determine the cause of the crash. The driver has undergone a blood test to check for traces of illegal substances. Meanwhile, the injured passengers are receiving medical check-ups and were cleared by doctors, to continue their journey in time to vote. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-12.

AWC Posts Nearly 2 Billion Baht Profit in Q1, Set to Launch ‘Jurassic World’ Landmark Picture courtesy of Matichon. Asset World Corporation (AWC) is forging ahead with an ambitious investment plan worth over 100 billion baht over the next five years, following a strong performance in the first quarter of 2025 and the upcoming opening of its highly anticipated ‘Jurassic World’ attraction at Asiatique in July. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360401-awc-posts-nearly-2-billion-baht-profit-in-q1-set-to-launch-‘jurassic-world’-landmark/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Asset World Corporation (AWC) is forging ahead with an ambitious investment plan worth over 100 billion baht over the next five years, following a strong performance in the first quarter of 2025 and the upcoming opening of its highly anticipated ‘Jurassic World’ attraction at Asiatique in July. Ms Wallapa Traisorat, CEO and President of AWC, revealed that despite numerous global challenges, including trade tensions, economic volatility, recent earthquakes, and a slowdown in international tourism, AWC continues to demonstrate robust growth. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has revised its 2025 forecast, predicting 35.5 million foreign arrivals, on par with 2024, amid falling numbers from China. In Q1 2025, AWC reported total revenue of 6.19 billion baht, a 13.6% year-on-year increase. Net profit reached 1.97 billion baht, up 23%, with operational profit at 3.42 billion baht, a 15.3% rise. The hotel and hospitality sector contributed 3.64 billion baht in revenue, a 9.4% increase, with the average daily rate (ADR) hitting a record high of 6,663 baht per night. Revenue per available room (RevPAR) stood at 4,992 baht, marking a 6% increase. AWC’s commercial business segment earned 2.39 billion baht, up 16.9%, with a profit of 2.05 billion baht, growing 17.8%. Mr Paitoon Wongsasutthikul, Chief Investment Strategy Officer, stated that AWC plans to expand its asset portfolio from 209.4 billion baht in Q1 2025 to 300 billion baht by 2029. The company also aims to double its hotel room count from 6,000 to 12,000 over the same period. Investment will average over 20 billion baht per year and focus on large-scale mixed-use projects. Upcoming developments include the revitalisation of the historic Woeng Nakhon Kasem area in Yaowarat, the Aquatique project in Pattaya, the Lannatique development, and a new concept for Tawanna in Bang Kapi. Additionally, Phase 2 of Asiatique The Riverfront Destination is underway, with more than 1.4 billion baht invested in the Jurassic World attraction, set to open in mid-July. The attraction is expected to boost daily visitor numbers at Asiatique by 10% from the current 30,000—75% of whom are international tourists, particularly from China, with Thais comprising the remaining 25%. Despite the general decline in Chinese tourists, AWC has been minimally affected, with Chinese nationals accounting for just 10% of its clientele. Increased arrivals from the United States and Europe, alongside the company’s luxury-focused hotel portfolio located in prime tourist destinations, have helped mitigate the impact. “Our strategy remains to enhance existing assets, pursue long-term megaprojects, and seek acquisitions where suitable,” Mr Paitoon said. “During the COVID-19 period, over 100 hotels were offered for sale to us, but we’ve been selective in evaluating opportunities. This year, three new properties have been added to our portfolio: Melia Pattaya Hotel, the Woeng Nakhon Kasem project, and the former Swissôtel Le Concorde Ratchada, which is being redeveloped into Jubilee Prestige Tower and is scheduled to open in 2028.” Mr Chayanan Hopataraporn, AWC’s Chief Accounting and Finance Officer, added that the company has secured adequate funding from various financial institutions to support its five-year investment plan, with access to credit up to three times the required investment. He forecasted double-digit revenue growth for the full year. Following the March earthquake, AWC conducted comprehensive inspections of all its buildings in affected areas. The structures passed safety checks conducted by internal engineers, external partners, and independent certification bodies, ensuring the company’s properties remain trusted and secure for clients and partners alike. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-12.

Man Killed After Tree Falls on Shelter During Thunderstorm in Bangkok Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 51-year-old man was killed in the early hours of 11 may, when a large tree was brought down by strong winds and rain, crushing the makeshift shelter where he was staying in western Bangkok. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360400-man-killed-after-tree-falls-on-shelter-during-thunderstorm-in-bangkok/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 51-year-old man was killed in the early hours of 11 may, when a large tree was brought down by strong winds and rain, crushing the makeshift shelter where he was staying in western Bangkok. Police and forensic investigators from Siriraj Hospital were called to the scene in Soi Phutthamonthon Sai 3 Soi 18, in Salathammasop subdistrict, Thawi Watthana district, after receiving reports of a fatal incident involving a fallen tree. Upon arrival, authorities discovered a large sakae tree had collapsed over a small shack on a 2-rai plot of land. Inside, the body of Mr. Buala, 51, was found shirtless and wearing only shorts. He had sustained severe head injuries, and rescuers had to cut through the branches to retrieve his body. A local resident, Mr. Duean Phongchaliao, 62, reported that a violent storm struck the area the previous evening. Heavy rain and powerful winds caused the tree to topple onto the shelter. Initially, he approached the site to check on the occupant but saw no one. Concerned when the man did not appear an hour later, he returned to investigate and discovered the victim’s lifeless body beneath the tree. Mr. Buala was employed as a caretaker of the land where the incident occurred. His body has been sent to the Forensic Institute at Siriraj Hospital for a post-mortem examination. The incident comes amid a wave of severe weather affecting several parts of Thailand. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-12.

Massive Concrete Slab Falls on Car in Lat Krabang Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A large concrete slab fell from a transport lorry onto a passing car in the Lat Krabang district of Bangkok, severely damaging the vehicle. Remarkably, the driver escaped with only minor injuries. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360399-massive-concrete-slab-falls-on-car-in-lat-krabang/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A large concrete slab fell from a transport lorry onto a passing car in the Lat Krabang district of Bangkok, severely damaging the vehicle. Remarkably, the driver escaped with only minor injuries. According to a report shared by the FM91 Trafficpro Facebook page and confirmed by the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, the incident occurred near the entrance of Soi Lat Krabang 54. The slab, which had been loaded onto a truck for a nearby construction project, slipped from the vehicle and crashed onto a private car travelling alongside. Images from the scene show the car crushed under the weight of the fallen slab. Fortunately, the driver, who has not been named, suffered only minor injuries and was able to exit the vehicle without assistance. Emergency services were called to the scene immediately, and the right-hand lane of the road was temporarily obstructed due to the debris. Local authorities are now investigating the incident. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-12.

Myanmar Couple Killed in Motorbike Crash During Heavy Rain in Nonthaburi Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A road crash claimed the lives of a husband and wife from Myanmar after their motorbike skidded and overturned during heavy rainfall, before being struck by an oncoming pickup truck in Nonthaburi province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360398-myanmar-couple-killed-in-motorbike-crash-during-heavy-rain-in-nonthaburi/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A road crash claimed the lives of a husband and wife from Myanmar after their motorbike skidded and overturned during heavy rainfall, before being struck by an oncoming pickup truck in Nonthaburi province. The incident occurred at approximately 17:30 on 10 May along the road adjacent to the Khlong Prapa canal, near the entrance to Muang Thong Thani in Ban Mai subdistrict, Pak Kret district. Police from Pak Kret Police Station, rescue workers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation, Bua Phet Nonthaburi Rescue Association, and a forensic physician from the Institute of Forensic Medicine were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, officers discovered the bodies of Mr. Khun Mong Mit, 38, and Ms. Nan Piang, 35, lying motionless in the middle of the road amidst the pouring rain. Both victims were Myanmar nationals. Nearby lay their black Honda Wave motorbike, licence plate from Bangkok, overturned and damaged. The pickup truck involved in the collision had already fled the scene. Footage from a dashboard camera belonging to a witness captured the sequence of events. The motorbike, travelling from Sri Saman intersection towards Chaeng Watthana Road, was seen attempting to overtake a vehicle in front. However, it lost traction on the wet surface, causing the motorbike to slide and fall. In a cruel twist of timing, a pickup truck travelling in the opposite direction was unable to brake in time, striking the pair. Following the incident, the pickup truck did not remain at the scene. Police were later able to contact the couple’s daughter, who confirmed that her parents worked as painters. On the day of the crash, they had been returning home to the Lat Pla Khao area after a job in Don Mueang. Authorities have stated they will pursue the pickup truck driver to obtain a full account of the crash. The bodies of the deceased have been transported by the Poh Teck Tung Foundation to the Institute of Forensic Medicine for examination. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-12.

Manhunt for Myanmar National After Fatal Home Invasion in Bangkok Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Police are urgently hunting a 23-year-old Myanmar man following a violent home invasion and fatal shooting in Bangkok’s Phetkasem area late night on 10 May. The suspect, identified as Mr. Sai Han, is accused of breaking into the home of 70-year-old fitness centre owner Mr. Yuttharoj, seizing his revolver, and fatally shooting him during a struggle. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360389-manhunt-for-myanmar-national-after-fatal-home-invasion-in-bangkok/

Five Injured After Van Carrying Family Returning from House Blessing Is Hit by Lorry in Khon Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Five people were injured in a road crash in Khon Kaen province today after a van carrying family members returning from a housewarming religious ceremony attempted a U-turn and was struck by an 18-wheeler lorry. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360388-five-injured-after-van-carrying-family-returning-from-house-blessing-is-hit-by-lorry-in-khon/

Flash Flood Devastates Wang Nam Khiao – 18-Year-Old Man Swept Away & Killed Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Torrential rains triggered a powerful flash flood in Wang Nam Khiao district, Nakhon Ratchasima on 10 May, submerging homes and vehicles and claiming the life of an 18-year-old construction worker. Another man, aged around 60, is missing after being swept away in the floodwaters. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360387-flash-flood-devastates-wang-nam-khiao-–-18-year-old-man-swept-away-killed/

Siam Amazing Park Commits 300 Million Baht to Water Park Revamp New Rides from China & India Pictured courtesy of Khaosod. Siam Amazing Park, an amusement and water park, has announced a major 300 million baht investment plan to revitalise its water park facilities, including the purchase of new rides from suppliers in China and India. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360386-siam-amazing-park-commits-300-million-baht-to-water-park-revamp-new-rides-from-china-india/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Police are urgently hunting a 23-year-old Myanmar man following a violent home invasion and fatal shooting in Bangkok’s Phetkasem area late night on 10 May. The suspect, identified as Mr. Sai Han, is accused of breaking into the home of 70-year-old fitness centre owner Mr. Yuttharoj, seizing his revolver, and fatally shooting him during a struggle. According to police reports, Mr. Sai Han allegedly stole the victim’s .38-calibre revolver, mobile phone, and Honda CR-V before fleeing the scene. The suspect, described as an unskilled driver unfamiliar with local roads, was last traced heading towards Rangsit after hitting multiple motorcycles during his erratic escape through the Ban Khaek and Chana Songkhram areas. Investigators are currently reviewing extensive CCTV footage and believe they are closing in on the suspect’s location. The incident is linked to Mr. Sai Han’s 18-year-old girlfriend, Ms. Pong, who is five months pregnant and had been employed by Mr. Yuttharoj since 28 April as a caregiver for his 90-year-old mother. She was arrested earlier for illegally entering Thailand and is now in custody. Ms. Pong revealed that Mr. Sai Han had previously visited the home once and had demanded money for alcohol. She described him as an alcoholic with a history of physical abuse. Although she initially requested that her boyfriend be hired to work alongside her, Mr. Yuttharoj declined after learning about his violent behaviour. Shortly before the incident, Ms. Pong received a threatening phone call from Mr. Sai Han, who said he intended to kill her. She informed her employer, and soon after, the suspect climbed over the fence and attempted to enter the house. Mr. Yuttharoj tried to prevent the intrusion by confronting him with a firearm. A struggle ensued, during which the suspect allegedly managed to wrest the gun away and fatally shot the victim. He then fled with the weapon and other items. Family members have appealed to the authorities to apprehend the suspect swiftly, citing safety concerns, especially with an elderly and bedridden relative still residing in the house. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-12.

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Five people were injured in a road crash in Khon Kaen province today after a van carrying family members returning from a housewarming religious ceremony attempted a U-turn and was struck by an 18-wheeler lorry. Emergency response teams from the Mueang Kao Municipality Rescue Unit, the Sawang Khon Kaen Foundation, and Khon Kaen Hospital’s ambulance service rushed to the scene on Klang Mueang Road in Ban Non Tun, Mueang Kao sub-district. The van, a Hyundai registered in Bangkok, had been damaged in the crash, which occurred when it turned across the path of a cement lorry also registered in Bangkok. Five female passengers in the van were injured. Fortunately, a passing female doctor witnessed the incident and immediately began providing first aid alongside rescue personnel before the injured were taken to Khon Kaen Hospital for further treatment. The lorry driver, Mr. Somchai aged 50, stated he had been delivering cement to a roadside depot near Khon Kaen’s bypass road. He claimed that the van, travelling in the left-hand lane, suddenly attempted a turn across the road without warning, leaving him unable to brake in time. The resulting collision caused the van to spin into the middle of the road. The van’s driver, Mr. Manop aged 62, explained that he had been transporting seven family members from Nakhon Ratchasima to attend a house blessing ceremony. The crash occurred as they were returning home and attempting to cross the railway bridge towards Mittraphap Road. He admitted he had failed to notice the approaching lorry before attempting the turn, which led to the impact. Most of the injured passengers were elderly relatives. The names and ages of those injured are: • Mrs. Samniang, 82 • Mrs. Phongsri, 78 • Mrs. Lamyai, 63 • Mrs. Lampoon, 80 • Mrs. Supap, 58 Police investigators conducted a thorough examination to determine the precise cause of the crash. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-12.

End to Holiday Plans: Man Dies in Motorcycle Crash in Trang Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A planned seaside holiday ended, after a 35-year-old man died in a motorcycle accident just 300 metres from his destination in Trang Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360385-end-to-holiday-plans-man-dies-in-motorcycle-crash-in-trang/

Pictured courtesy of Khaosod. Siam Amazing Park, an amusement and water park, has announced a major 300 million baht investment plan to revitalise its water park facilities, including the purchase of new rides from suppliers in China and India. Mr. Wuthichai Lueangamornlert, CEO of Siam Park City Group, which operates the well-known Siam Amazing Park (formerly Suan Siam), revealed that the company is taking strategic advantage of global market shifts caused by US trade tariffs under former President Donald Trump’s administration. This has led to a pivot away from traditional European and American ride suppliers toward more cost-effective alternatives in Asia. The renovation project, which is expected to take 3–4 years, forms part of the company’s 2025 operations roadmap. It includes both the acquisition of brand-new attractions and upgrades to existing equipment, all aimed at improving customer experience and drawing more visitors. “Following the COVID-19 crisis, we experienced severe liquidity issues, with outstanding debts reaching approximately 1 billion baht,” said Mr. Wuthichai. “We’ve had to restructure our debt with the banks, using our revenue mainly to pay interest. But we’re now seeing signs of economic recovery, and the banks are ready to support our investment plans moving forward.” The company aims to reinvigorate customer interest without slashing prices further. Visitor numbers have dropped by 20–30% post-pandemic, prompting a strategic shift from price-cutting to investment in quality and innovation. “We’re focusing on three core actions: revitalisation, refurbishment, and reinvestment. Our goal is to regain momentum and prepare for the expected rebound in the tourism and leisure sector by 2027,” Mr. Wuthichai added. Siam Amazing Park hopes that these investments will position it as a leading destination for family entertainment in Thailand and Southeast Asia once again. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-12.

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Torrential rains triggered a powerful flash flood in Wang Nam Khiao district, Nakhon Ratchasima on 10 May, submerging homes and vehicles and claiming the life of an 18-year-old construction worker. Another man, aged around 60, is missing after being swept away in the floodwaters. The downpour, caused by a summer storm, struck Udomsap subdistrict for nearly three hours, overwhelming the forested hills of Thap Lan National Park and unleashing a mass of water into Khlong Nong Somong. This surge inundated the nearby village of Ban Nong Somong in Moo 6. A Myanmar construction worker, identified as Mr. Thun, 18, was swept away while attempting to escape the rising waters using two plastic jerry cans as flotation devices. He was reported missing, prompting an urgent search by rescue team Hook 31 and military personnel from the 2nd Army Region. The search for the missing worker culminated around 19:15, when Mr. Thun’s body was found entangled in bamboo along Khlong Nong Somong, roughly 300 metres from the house. While search operations for Mr. Thun were underway, rescue services received another distress call involving a man in his sixties who was reportedly clinging to a motorbike on a flooded road near the boundary of Ban Huai Phrom and Ban Takrut Rang villages. Despite a rapid response, rescuers found no sign of the man when they arrived. Thermal drone surveillance was deployed, but no heat signals were detected, and the search was suspended pending any local reports of a missing person. Authorities are continuing to assess the full extent of the damage and are preparing for further recovery operations. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-12.

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A planned seaside holiday ended, after a 35-year-old man died in a motorcycle accident just 300 metres from his destination in Trang Province. At around 12:00 noon, Police Sub-Lieutenant Phanthit Sanguansak, a duty investigator from Mueang Trang Police Station, responded to reports of a fatal road crash near the Khuan Pring traffic lights in Moo 6, Khuan Pring sub-district, Mueang Trang district. Emergency responders from several units, including Trang Hospital and Thonburi Trang Hospital, were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, authorities found a Honda CBR 150R motorcycle registered in Nakhon Ratchasima lying on its side near the base of a streetlight on a central reservation. The motorbike had sustained damage. The streetlamp showed signs of a direct impact, with its light fixture and casing dislodged and dangling. Approximately three to four metres from the motorcycle lay the lifeless body of Mr. Sonthaya, a local entrepreneur originally from Nakhon Ratchasima. He was found in a pool of blood, having suffered a severe head injury. Forensic examination at the scene confirmed blunt force trauma to the front of the skull as the cause of death. The emotional toll of the incident was immediately apparent when the deceased’s girlfriend arrived at the scene accompanied by friends. Overcome with grief, she collapsed in tears beside his body, holding him tightly as others looked on in sorrow. Preliminary investigations indicate that Mr. Sonthaya had been travelling from his home in Ban Khok Phla, Khok Lo sub-district, en route to a nearby garage in Khuan Pring to collect his pickup truck. He had planned to take his girlfriend to Hat Yao beach in Koh Libong, Kantang District, for a weekend getaway. While navigating a bend near a junction, he appears to have lost control of the motorbike, veering off course and slamming into the streetlight pole. Local bystanders who witnessed the aftermath quickly alerted emergency services. Authorities transferred the body to Trang Hospital for a formal autopsy. The family has requested the body be returned to the deceased’s hometown of Nakhon Ratchasima for religious rites and burial. Rescue personnel will assist with the transport. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-12.