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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.

UPDATE Tragic End to Search for Missing Thai Teen as Family Demands Answers Picture courtesy of Naewna. The search for 17-year-old Napassorn, affectionately known as “Nong Namtan,” ended in tragedy as her family confirmed her death on Saturday, 10 May. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360129-thai-teenager-missing-for-a-week-family-appeals-for-publics-help/#findComment-19793996

Ukrainian Arrested at Phuket Airport Over Condominium Vandalism Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A Ukrainian national was arrested at Phuket International Airport on the 10 May, accused of causing extensive damage to a rented condominium in the Mueangdistrict, Phuket. The estimated cost of the damage is 350,000 baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360371-ukrainian-tourist-arrested-at-phuket-airport-over-condominium-vandalism/

to continue: Thailand Live Monday 12 May 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1360384-thailand-live-monday-12-may-2025/

Ukrainian Arrested at Phuket Airport Over Condominium Vandalism Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A Ukrainian national was arrested at Phuket International Airport on the 10 May, accused of causing extensive damage to a rented condominium in the Mueangdistrict, Phuket. The estimated cost of the damage is 350,000 baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360371-ukrainian-tourist-arrested-at-phuket-airport-over-condominium-vandalism/

Update here:

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A Ukrainian national was arrested at Phuket International Airport on the 10 May, accused of causing extensive damage to a rented condominium in the Mueang district, Phuket. The estimated cost of the damage is 350,000 baht. The woman, identified only as Miss Anastasia, was detained by immigration officers as she attempted to leave Thailand. Police had previously issued two summonses for her to appear for questioning following a complaint filed by the property manager, Ms Warinrat, 39, on 29 April. When the suspect failed to respond, officers from Wichit Police Station secured a court-approved arrest warrant. During initial questioning, the woman admitted to vandalising the apartment, claiming she was angry about not receiving her security deposit. However, the property owner, Miss Praphaphan, explained that the woman was not listed on the rental agreement, which was signed by a Russian national. This discrepancy, along with other contractual stipulations, prevented the immediate return of the 32,000 baht deposit. The condominium, located in Wichit sub-district, was found in a state of disrepair. Images shared on Facebook by the owner showed walls and ceilings covered in blue and green graffiti, including crude drawings, obscenities, and the word “SWINDLE” scrawled above the bed. Household furnishings, including the bed, curtains, and pillows, had been slashed open, with cotton stuffing strewn across the room. Electrical appliances were also reportedly destroyed. Miss Anastasia had resided in the flat from 15 April 2024 to 15 April 2025. After initially refusing to vacate the property at the end of the tenancy, she later agreed to leave by 29 April. She informed the manager that she had left the room early and had placed the keys in a rubbish bin. Accompanied by friends and security personnel, Ms Warinrat entered the property with a locksmith and was shocked by the scale of the destruction. The property owner emphasised that she had been following proper procedures, as stipulated in the lease agreement. These included a 14-day window to process the deposit return, deductions for unpaid utility bills, and the requirement that refunds be made only to the person listed on the contract. Miss Anastasia has been charged with property damage and remains in police custody as legal proceedings commence. The room owner posted online following the arrest: “Whatever karma you create, you must face the consequences, young lady.” Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359349-deposit-dispute-turns-ugly-ukrainian-renter-wrecks-thai-condo-then-vanishes/ Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-11.

UPDATE Tragic End to Search for Missing Thai Teen as Family Demands Answers Picture courtesy of Naewna. The search for 17-year-old Napassorn, affectionately known as “Nong Namtan,” ended in tragedy as her family confirmed her death on Saturday, 10 May. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360129-thai-teenager-missing-for-a-week-family-appeals-for-publics-help/#findComment-19793996

UPDATE Tragic End to Search for Missing Thai Teen as Family Demands Answers Picture courtesy of Naewna. The search for 17-year-old Napassorn, affectionately known as “Nong Namtan,” ended in tragedy as her family confirmed her death on Saturday, 10 May. Originally from Udon Thani, Napassorn disappeared after leaving her apartment in the Rangsit area of Pathum Thani on 1 May. Her family lost contact with her around midnight, prompting her father to file a missing person report with Pathum Thani police the following day. Investigations revealed that Napassorn used a taxi-hailing app to travel to Bangkok’s Rama III Road, where she switched vehicles and headed to Pattaya’s Walking Street. She later returned to the capital but then vanished without trace. On 10 May, a Facebook user named Papassorn, believed to be a relative, announced Napassorn’s death and thanked the public for their support during the search. According to the post, the teenager had jumped into the Chao Phraya River, and her body was found on 3 May. Despite the discovery, her family said many questions remain unanswered and called for a full investigation. “We’re just an ordinary family trying to find the truth,” said the post. “It’s so hard to seek justice when you don’t have power.” Before disappearing, Napassorn made several phone calls and then switched off her mobile. Her family believe she did not obtain a new SIM card, as she did not have her ID card with her. CCTV footage showed her walking alone along Rama III Road, but no further video evidence has been found. The family has requested access to CCTV from nearby bridges and the vehicles she used, hoping to determine whether her death was accidental or intentional. They have also contacted her bank for information about recent transactions but are still awaiting a response. In a separate post, Papassorn wrote: “RIP. There is no miracle. I never thought I’d lose you so soon… The worst fear was confirmed. I promise to live happily for both of us and to take care of your parents for you.” 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. Adapted by Asean Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-11.

Crash Claims 3 Lives in Phuket: Father, Daughter and Mother-in-Law Die in Motorcycle Crash Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A road crash in Phuket has left three family members dead after their motorcycle veered off course and slammed into a lamppost. The victims include a father, his young daughter, and his mother-in-law. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360355-crash-claims-3-lives-in-phuket-father-daughter-and-mother-in-law-die-in-motorcycle-crash/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A road crash in Phuket has left three family members dead after their motorcycle veered off course and slammed into a lamppost. The victims include a father, his young daughter, and his mother-in-law. Police were alerted to the incident at around 17:00 on 10 May.. Pol. Sub-Lt. Chalathit Khieowan, an investigator from Wichit Police Station, responded to the scene on Sakdidet Road in Wichit subdistrict, Mueang Phuket district, along with emergency responders. The crash occurred on a four-lane road, where debris from a shattered pink plastic container was scattered across the tarmac. A damaged streetlight stood at the roadside with its lamp smashed, showing signs of a violent impact. Nearby, a badly wrecked grey Honda PCX motorcycle bearing Phuket registration plates lay at the scene. The bodies of a 50-year-old woman, later identified as Ms. Preeya Phlikan, and a young girl, believed to be her granddaughter, were found lying in a pool of blood in a grassy area beside the road. A seriously injured man, Ms. Preeya’s son-in-law and the father of the child, was rushed to hospital, but succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival. Initial investigations suggest that the man was riding the motorcycle with Ms. Preeya and the young girl as passengers, heading toward the Muang Thong junction on the inbound lane to Phuket Town. It is believed he lost control before crashing directly into the lamppost, killing the two female passengers instantly. A nearby street vendor selling leather bags told police he did not witness the moment of impact as he was looking at his phone, but looked up upon hearing the crash. He speculated that the motorcycle was likely travelling at speed when it lost control. Police continue to investigate the cause of the crash. The names of the child and the deceased male have yet to be formally released. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-11.

Body of Missing Australian Tourist Found Off Freedom Beach in Phuket Picture courtesy of Phuketinsta The body of a 41-year-old Australian tourist who had been missing for several days was discovered near Freedom Beach, a secluded spot on the island’s west coast. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360344-body-of-missing-australian-tourist-found-off-freedom-beach-in-phuket/

Chinese National Arrested for Running Illegal Tour Operation Outside Bangkok’s Grand Palace Picture courtesy of Workpoint. Authorities have arrested a Chinese man for allegedly operating an illegal tour service outside one of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks, Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), using deceptive tactics to avoid detection by immigration and tourism officials. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360341-chinese-national-arrested-for-running-illegal-tour-operation-outside-bangkok’s-grand-palace/

Chinese Business Delegation Backs Pattaya’s Safety, Plans to Fly in 1,000 Staff in June Picture courtesy of Matichon. Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet has expressed delight after two senior Chinese business executives declared the city “100% safe” for tourism and confirmed plans to bring 1,000 employees to visit in June. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360340-chinese-business-delegation-backs-pattaya’s-safety-plans-to-fly-in-1000-staff-in-june/

British Tourist Seriously Injured in Thai Waterfall Fall – Family Appeals for Help Picture courtesy of Naewna A 21-year-old British tourist who suffered life-threatening injuries after falling from a waterfall in Thailand is now facing medical bills exceeding 4.3 million Baht, prompting his family and girlfriend to launch an urgent fundraising appeal to bring him home. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360339-british-tourist-seriously-injured-in-thai-waterfall-fall-–-family-appeals-for-help/

Incident at Udon Thani Rice Mill Claims Life of Elderly Woman An incident occurred shortly before 13:00 on 10 May, at a rice mill in Ban Pa Kao, Phak Top Subdistrict, Nong Han District, Udon Thani Province, when a 73-year-old woman was fatally injured after being pulled into a conveyor belt. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360338-incident-at-udon-thani-rice-mill-claims-life-of-elderly-woman/

Picture courtesy of Phuketinsta The body of a 41-year-old Australian tourist who had been missing for several days was discovered near Freedom Beach, a secluded spot on the island’s west coast. The deceased has been identified as Anthony John Heathcote, a visitor from Australia whose disappearance was reported by his wife three days before. His body was found floating approximately 20 metres from the shore, during the morning of 10 May, by local authorities conducting a search in the area. According to police, Heathcote’s wife had alerted them when her husband failed to return from an outing. A coordinated search was launched involving local police, rescue teams, and volunteers. The body, which showed no immediate signs of trauma, has been sent for a full autopsy at Vachira Phuket Hospital to determine the exact cause of death. Officials say it is too early to speculate, though drowning remains a strong possibility. Freedom Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and relatively low tourist traffic due to limited access, is generally considered safe. However, local officials have reminded visitors to exercise caution, especially during the monsoon season when sea conditions can change rapidly. Australian consular officials have been notified and are providing assistance to the victim’s family. Authorities in Phuket have pledged a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Adapted by Asean Now from Phuketinsta 2025-05-11.

Foreign Workers Caught in Illegal Employment Raid at Host Bar in Huai Khwang Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A high-profile host bar in Bangkok’s Huai Khwang district has come under fire after a joint operation led to the arrest of multiple foreign nationals found working illegally. The Department of Employment, under the Ministry of Labour, carried out the raid in coordination with the Immigration Bureau and local police stations including Bang Sue, Sutthisan and Chokchai. Full story :https://aseannow.com/topic/1360337-foreign-workers-caught-in-illegal-employment-raid-at-host-bar-in-huai-khwang/

Burmese Man Arrested After Attempted Robbery at Village Headman’s Residence in Najomtien Picture courtesy of Sattahip News. A Burmese national has been arrested following an attempted burglary at the home of a local village headman in Najomtien, Sattahip District, Chonburi Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360336-burmese-man-arrested-after-attempted-robbery-at-village-headman’s-residence-in-najomtien/

Police Dismantle Counterfeit Dollar Smuggling Ring Operating from Laos to Bangkok Picture courtesy of Khoasod. Bangkok police have arrested three individuals in connection with a major counterfeit currency operation smuggling fake US dollars from Laos into Thailand. The arrests, made in the early hours of 9 May, took place at a residence in Soi Sai Mai 74/1 and at the Happy Home Resort in Bangkok. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1360335-police-dismantle-counterfeit-dollar-smuggling-ring-operating-from-laos-to-bangkok/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Pattaya Mayor Poramet Ngampichet has expressed delight after two senior Chinese business executives declared the city “100% safe” for tourism and confirmed plans to bring 1,000 employees to visit in June. Mr Huang Yang Sen, CEO of Chinese tea and supplement company Tianfu Tianmeishi, and Ms Yi Na, the firm’s Deputy CEO, visited Pattaya City Hall this week to meet with Mayor Poramet. The visit was aimed at reaffirming their company’s confidence in the safety of Pattaya amid negative perceptions in some parts of China regarding travel to Thailand. The company, which operates over 3,000 branches across China, has long been bringing customers and staff to Thailand as part of incentive travel programmes. However, recent concerns over safety in Thailand, stemming from high-profile incidents such as call centre scams and the abduction of Chinese nationals, had raised doubts among the public and the media. During the meeting, the executives made it clear they remained confident in Thailand’s tourism infrastructure and security. Mr Huang stated: “Chinese tourists love coming to Thailand, but there have been some concerns recently about safety. That’s why, in June 2025, we are bringing a group of 1,000 customers and representatives to Pattaya to show everyone that it is indeed safe.” Ms Yi Na echoed these sentiments, admitting that before her recent trip, she too had been warned against travelling to Thailand by friends and family due to the country’s negative press. “But after arriving, I found Thailand and Pattaya to be completely safe,” she said. “There are many beautiful and interesting places to visit, and the fear I had before arriving quickly disappeared.” She added that the notion of Thailand being too expensive was not a major concern, saying she found travel costs to be reasonable. “Price isn’t the real issue. Safety is what matters most to travellers. Personally, I didn’t spend an excessive amount on this trip, and I believe Thai tourism will recover strongly in the future,” she said. The visit and endorsement by the Chinese delegation is seen as a significant boost for Pattaya’s tourism industry, particularly as it continues to recover from the impact of the pandemic and recent safety concerns. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-11.

Picture courtesy of Workpoint. Authorities have arrested a Chinese man for allegedly operating an illegal tour service outside one of Bangkok’s most iconic landmarks, Wat Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), using deceptive tactics to avoid detection by immigration and tourism officials. The suspect, identified as Mr Yue Liu, 31, a Chinese national, was found conducting unlicensed guided tours for visiting Chinese tourists while posing as a legitimate operator. In a sophisticated attempt to evade law enforcement, Mr Liu reportedly drove a luxury vehicle himself, personally escorted tour groups, and provided full-service “VIP” packages that included high-end dining and comfort-focused travel itineraries. Bookings were made online. The arrest was made as part of a broader crackdown ordered by Police General Kittirat Phanphet, Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, and supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. The operation is targeting unauthorised foreign workers and illegal tour operations that compete unfairly with local businesses. According to police, undercover officers from the Tourist Police Bureau began surveillance after receiving intelligence reports about a foreign national routinely leading tour groups around the Grand Palace area. Mr Liu was apprehended near Tha Chang Pier on Maharaj Road after officers confirmed he was violating Thai tourism and labour laws. Mr Liu now faces two charges: operating a tour business without a licence, and working in Thailand without a valid work permit or outside the scope permitted by any such permit. Investigators believe this case is part of a wider trend in which illegal foreign tour operators bypass regulations by disguising themselves as private drivers or freelance guides. The suspect has been handed over to investigators at Chana Songkhram Police Station for further legal proceedings. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to cracking down on “nominee” operators and unlicensed guides, emphasising the importance of protecting Thai jobs and ensuring visitor safety through properly regulated tourism services. Adapted by Asean Now from Workpoint 2025-05-11.

Picture from responders. An incident occurred shortly before 13:00 on 10 May, at a rice mill in Ban Pa Kao, Phak Top Subdistrict, Nong Han District, Udon Thani Province, when a 73-year-old woman was fatally injured after being pulled into a conveyor belt. According to reports, the woman was near the milling machine when her clothing became entangled in the conveyor mechanism. The force of the belt quickly drew her into the machine, causing severe injuries. Witnesses at the scene acted immediately to shut off the equipment and called the emergency services. Rescue workers from Phak Top Municipality’s emergency unit arrived promptly, cutting her free from the machinery and transported the injured woman to Nong Han Hospital. Despite the best efforts of medical staff, she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival due to the extent of her injuries. Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Adapted by Asean Now 2025-05-11.

Picture courtesy of Naewna A 21-year-old British tourist who suffered life-threatening injuries after falling from a waterfall in Thailand is now facing medical bills exceeding 4.3 million Baht, prompting his family and girlfriend to launch an urgent fundraising appeal to bring him home. Liam Gibson, a British soldier, was holidaying on Koh Samui with his girlfriend, Lucy Baldwin, 20, when the incident occurred during the Songkran festival. On 12 April, while taking photos at a popular viewing point at Na Muang 2 Waterfall, a location widely shared on TikTok, Liam lost his footing and plunged nine metres onto rocks below. He sustained multiple serious injuries, including a fractured skull, broken facial bones, and a shattered femur. Liam remained stuck and unconscious for nearly two hours before being rescued and rushed to a local hospital. He has been in hospital for nearly a month following the incident. Lucy, describing the ordeal as the “worst experience of her life,” said: “I noticed he’d been gone for a while, so I called out. Then I saw him unconscious on the rocks, covered in blood. Thankfully, nearby tourists came to help us.” Due to the severity of his injuries and the high cost of international medical transport, Liam requires an air ambulance to return to the UK for further surgery. Lucy launched a fundraising campaign via GoFundMe to help cover the medical expenses. In her heartfelt plea, Lucy wrote, “We never wanted to ask for help, but this is our last option. Liam can’t leave the hospital until the bill is paid. Please help me bring him home so he can get the surgery he desperately needs.” So far, more than 1.3 million Baht has been raised. The family expressed their deep gratitude for the outpouring of support and are currently working with their insurance provider in the hope of resolving the situation. The incident has once again raised concerns over travel safety and the importance of adequate insurance coverage while abroad. Adapted by Asean Now from Naewna 2025-05-11.