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Mother and Two Children Killed in High-Speed Pickup Truck Collision A crash in Nakhon Si Thammarat has claimed the lives of a mother and her two children after a speeding pickup truck crashed into their motorcycle. The devastating collision left the three victims dead, while the pickup truck overturned and landed on its roof. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355456-mother-and-two-children-killed-in-high-speed-pickup-truck-collision/

Picture from responders. A crash in Nakhon Si Thammarat has claimed the lives of a mother and her two children after a speeding pickup truck crashed into their motorcycle. The devastating collision left the three victims dead, while the pickup truck overturned and landed on its roof. The collision occurred on the evening of 21 March, near Ban Nong Hin School in Moo 2, Tha Samet subdistrict, Chawuat district. According to reports, the pickup truck was travelling at high speed when it rear-ended the motorcycle carrying the three victims. Police and emergency responders arrived at the scene to find the severely damaged motorcycle and the overturned black pickup truck. Two victims, identified as Ms. Suwanno, 45, and her 15-year-old daughter (name withheld), were pronounced dead at the scene. The third victim, a three-year-old girl (name withheld), was critically injured and later died in hospital. The pickup truck driver sustained minor injuries and later turned himself in to the police. Pol. Col. Somporn Nitipak, superintendent of Chawuat Police Station, confirmed that the driver had been charged with causing death by reckless driving and an investigation is underway to gather further evidence and testimonies. Authorities are also expected to take further legal action against the driver as investigations continue. -- 2025-03-22

Farmer Killed as Tractor Overturns in Prachinburi Pictures from responders A 49-year-old farmer was killed in a crash when his tractor overturned and crushed him in Khao Din Village, Kabin Buri District, Prachinburi Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355455-farmer-killed-as-tractor-overturns-in-prachinburi/

Pictures from responders A 49-year-old farmer was killed in a crash when his tractor overturned and crushed him in Khao Din Village, Kabin Buri District, Prachinburi Province. Police reports indicate that the incident occurred in the late afternoon, on 21 March. Pol. Lt. Kiattisak Srikacha, an investigating officer at Kabin Buri Police Station, received an emergency call from the Sajja Phutthatham Foundation rescue unit regarding a fatal tractor crash at the edge of Moo 12, Yan Ree Subdistrict. Upon arrival, authorities found a blue agricultural tractor without a licence plate overturned at the roadside. A large crowd of villagers had gathered at the scene. The victim, identified as Mr. Kamphong Monthong, had been pulled out from under the vehicle but was pronounced dead at the scene. According to Mr. Anucha Thongwan, he was passing by when he saw the overturned tractor. He immediately alerted nearby villagers to assist, but despite their efforts, the driver succumbed to his injuries. The deceased suffered severe head, chest, and right arm injuries, consistent with being crushed under the weight of the vehicle. His wife, Mrs. Somkid Monthong, was seen weeping beside his body, stating that her husband had been on his way to work when the crash happened. Initial investigations suggest that the victim lost control of the tractor on a curved section of the road, causing it to veer off the road, roll down the embankment and overturn. During the investigation, authorities recovered 1,000 baht in cash and a wristwatch from the deceased’s belongings, which were returned to his family. The victim’s relatives have stated that they do not suspect foul play. Police and forensic officers have conducted an examination and confirmed that the family is free to proceed with funeral arrangements. -- 2025-03-22

CIB Raids House in Bangkok’s Nong Chok District, Arrests Man for Possession of Wildlife Pictures courtesy of CIB The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has arrested a 37-year-old man in Nong Chok, Bangkok, for the illegal possession of protected wildlife species. The operation was led by the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division (NED) following reports of online wildlife trafficking. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355454-cib-raids-house-in-bangkok’s-nong-chok-district-arrests-man-for-possession-of-wildlife/

Pictures courtesy of CIB The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has arrested a 37-year-old man in Nong Chok, Bangkok, for the illegal possession of protected wildlife species. The operation was led by the Natural Resources and Environmental Crime Suppression Division (NED) following reports of online wildlife trafficking. Authorities received complaints about the illegal buying and selling of protected animals on social media. After gathering sufficient evidence, officers obtained a search warrant and raided the suspect’s residence. The operation involved CIB officers, the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP), the Wildlife Crime Intelligence Centre, and the CITES Wildlife and Plant Protection Division. Upon searching the premises, officials discovered several protected animals, including: • Two spotted owls • One slow loris • One yellow-headed temple turtle • Two impressed tortoises These species are classified as protected under Thai law, making their possession without a permit illegal. The suspect, identified as Banphot, was charged with illegal possession of protected wildlife and handed over to NED officers for further legal proceedings. The confiscated animals have been transferred to the Wildlife Health Management Division of the DNP for appropriate care and rehabilitation. The operation was conducted under the supervision of: • Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Phuridech, Commissioner of the CIB • Pol. Maj. Gen. Watcharin Pusit, Commander of the NED • Pol. Col. Sombat Malai, Acting Superintendent of Sub-Division 1, NED The arrest team included Pol. Lt. Col. Thanuphan Surasa, Pol. Lt. Col. Theerawat Chukorn, Pol. Capt. Sarun Yotpornpinet, and Pol. Capt. Watchara Buddeekham, alongside officials from the NED, DNP, and wildlife crime intelligence units. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to tackling wildlife trafficking and illegal animal possession, urging the public to report any suspicious activities related to the trade of endangered species. -- 2025-03-22

CIB Cracks Down on Two Illegal Loan Networks in Lampang Picture courtesy of CIB The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has dismantled two major illegal loan networks in Lampang, arresting two key suspects involved in extortionate lending and violent debt collection. One of the operations was found to have a cash flow exceeding 77 million baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355453-cib-cracks-down-on-two-illegal-loan-networks-in-lampang/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon. Authorities in Nakhon Ratchasima have taken the first official step towards converting Wing 1 military airbase into a commercial airport, a project expected to take over six years and cost approximately 1.6 billion baht. The plan follows the U-Tapao model, which saw a military airfield successfully transformed into Thailand’s third commercial airport. A meeting was held at the Luang Phor Koon Parisutho Conference Room at the Nakhon Ratchasima Provincial Hall on 21 March, chaired by Mr Kittisak Theerawatana, Deputy Governor of Nakhon Ratchasima. Representatives from various organisations, including the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF), the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT), the Korat Chamber of Commerce, and local industry bodies, attended to discuss the procedures, regulations, and necessary approvals required for the airport’s development. During the meeting, Air Vice Marshal Phitchayan Asiritirat, Commander of Wing 1, emphasised that the base remains a key facility for national air security in Thailand’s northeastern and eastern regions, with the country’s most advanced fighter jets on standby 24/7. Air Commodore Somphoom Suntra, Deputy Director of the Airport Standards and Air Navigation Services Division, highlighted several issues that must be addressed before the airport can be certified under the 1954 Air Navigation Act. These include: • Runway infrastructure concerns, such as rubber deposits, obstacles near the approach path, and slope inconsistencies. • Airfield safety standards, including firefighting and rescue personnel, signage, and security systems. • Operational limitations, due to intensive military training exercises that occur for seven months each year. • Security and logistical challenges, including the presence of munitions storage within the airbase. The transformation of U-Tapao Airport, which was transferred to the Royal Thai Navy for commercial development, serves as a model for the Wing 1 conversion. The U-Tapao project took six years and four months, with a total investment of 1.624 billion baht. The Wing 1 project is expected to require less funding but could take longer due to its existing military functions and infrastructure requirements. Mr Paijit Manasilp, Chairman of the Korat Chamber of Commerce, welcomed the initiative, thanking the RTAF for its cooperation and providing clear guidance on the process. He acknowledged that previous efforts to develop commercial aviation in the province had faced setbacks, including a decade of failed attempts to use Nong Teng Airport. “This is a major milestone in turning Wing 1 into a commercial airport,” he said. “The process will take at least six years and must pass stringent aviation safety and feasibility studies to ensure long-term success. Our goal is to give the people of Korat access to commercial air travel from their home province once again.” -- 2025-03-22

Picture courtesy of CIB The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has dismantled two major illegal loan networks in Lampang, arresting two key suspects involved in extortionate lending and violent debt collection. One of the operations was found to have a cash flow exceeding 77 million baht. The Crime Suppression Division (CSD) led the operation, resulting in the arrests of: 1. Anusorn – apprehended at a residence in Moo 3, Chomphu Subdistrict, Mueang Lampang District. 2. Thanet – arrested at a house in Moo 13, Ton Thong Chai Subdistrict, Mueang Lampang District. Both men face charges of operating an unauthorised personal loan business, in violation of Thai financial regulations. Police executed search warrants at two properties in Lampang and uncovered evidence linking the suspects to illegal money lending and excessive interest rates. Seized items included account books, ATM cards, and loan advertisements. Investigators also found that Anusorn used violent methods to collect debts and was in possession of illegal e-cigarettes. Both suspects were taken into custody and handed over to investigators for further legal proceedings. The crackdown was carried out under the command of: • Pol. Lt. Gen. Jiraphop Phuridech, Commissioner of the CIB • Pol. Maj. Gen. Wittaya Sriprasertphap, Commander of the CSD • Pol. Col. Eksit Pansita, Superintendent of Sub-Division 4, CSD The arrest team included Pol. Lt. Col. Narong Hansanthia and Pol. Capt. Jirattawat Kitrungruangdet, along with officers from Sub-Division 4, CSD. The CIB reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and impartiality, ensuring public safety and tackling illegal financial activities that exploit vulnerable individuals. -- 2025-03-22

Korat Military Airbase to be Converted into Commercial Airport Under U-Tapao Model Pictures courtesy of Matichon. Authorities in Nakhon Ratchasima have taken the first official step towards converting Wing 1 military airbase into a commercial airport, a project expected to take over six years and cost approximately 1.6 billion baht. The plan follows the U-Tapao model, which saw a military airfield successfully transformed into Thailand’s third commercial airport. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355452-korat-military-airbase-to-be-converted-into-commercial-airport-under-u-tapao-model/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon. The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) has announced the opening of the bidding process for the first phase of the Bhumibol Dam Floating Solar Power Plant in Tak province, with a capacity of 158 megawatts. The project is part of Thailand’s transition towards carbon neutrality by 2050 and net zero emissions by 2065. According to Mr Tidet Iamsai, EGAT Deputy Governor for Power Plant Development and Renewable Energy, the project involves the installation of floating solar panels on the reservoir of Bhumibol Dam, contributing to the country’s clean energy goals by reducing carbon dioxide emissions. The plant is expected to begin commercial electricity generation by 2030. Currently, the project is in the bidding document sales phase. Interested investors and developers can purchase bidding documents from now until 18 April 2025. The official bid submission date is set for 14 July 2025, though this may be subject to change. Further details can be found at EGAT’s procurement website. The floating solar project at Bhumibol Dam is part of the 2018-2038 Power Development Plan (PDP2018 Revision 1) and the upcoming national power development strategy. EGAT aims to develop floating solar farms across its dam reservoirs nationwide, with a total target capacity of 2,725 MW by 2030. By integrating floating solar technology with existing hydropower plants, the project will maximise the use of available resources, reduce production costs, and help maintain stable electricity prices. The initiative is also designed to be environmentally friendly, aligning with Thailand’s long-term sustainability goals. -- 2025-03-22

EGAT Opens Bidding for Floating Solar Farm at Bhumibol Dam Picture courtesy of Matichon. The Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) has announced the opening of the bidding process for the first phase of the Bhumibol Dam Floating Solar Power Plant in Tak province, with a capacity of 158 megawatts. The project is part of Thailand’s transition towards carbon neutrality by 2050 and net zero emissions by 2065. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355451-egat-opens-bidding-for-floating-solar-farm-at-bhumibol-dam/

Kaeng Krachan National Park Fines Tour Guide for Allowing Close-Up Photos of Black Panther Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A tour guide has been fined 6,000 baht after allowing tourists to leave their vehicle and take close-up photographs of a black panther in Kaeng Krachan National Park, violating park safety regulations. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355450-kaeng-krachan-national-park-fines-tour-guide-for-allowing-close-up-photos-of-black-panther/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A tour guide has been fined 6,000 baht after allowing tourists to leave their vehicle and take close-up photographs of a black panther in Kaeng Krachan National Park, violating park safety regulations. Mr Mongkol Chaiphakdee, Head of Kaeng Krachan National Park, confirmed the incident, which took place on 18 March at kilometre 20 on the Khao Panoen Thung route. Photos and video clips circulating on social media showed tourists outside their vehicle capturing images of the rare predator at dangerously close range. Following an investigation, it was revealed that the tour guide, Mr Sermsuk, who operates a tourist transport service, had actively encouraged four photographers to step out of the vehicle to take pictures. He also invited tourists from other vehicles to do the same. “Initially, the guide claimed that the tourists jumped out of the vehicle on their own and that he was unable to stop them,” said Mr Mongkol. “However, clear evidence from the videos and complaints submitted to the park’s official page proved that he was directly responsible for encouraging them to break the park’s rules.” As a result, the tour guide was fined 5,000 baht under Section 20 for disobeying park authority orders and an additional 1,000 baht under Section 36(1) for failing to cooperate with the investigation, bringing the total fine to 6,000 baht. Mr Mongkol also warned that if the same guide is found violating the rules again, the fine will increase to 20,000 baht for a second offence. A third violation will result in a maximum fine of 100,000 baht and a permanent revocation of his tour operator licence within the park. Park officials reiterated that leaving vehicles to photograph wildlife is strictly prohibited due to the potential danger it poses to both tourists and animals. Such actions disturb the natural behaviour of wildlife and could lead to unpredictable and dangerous encounters. “We urge all guides and visitors to respect the park’s regulations and prioritise safety. Our wildlife is a valuable national treasure that must be protected for future generations,” Mr Mongkol concluded. -- 2025-03-22

Missing 74-Year-Old Alzheimer’s Patient Found Deceased in Rice Field A 74-year-old man suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, who had been missing for nearly a month, has been found dead in a remote rice field in Nakhon Phanom province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355449-missing-74-year-old-alzheimer’s-patient-found-deceased-in-rice-field/

Picture from responders. A 74-year-old man suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, who had been missing for nearly a month, has been found dead in a remote rice field in Nakhon Phanom province. Police were alerted to the discovery on 21 March, when Lieutenant Surasak Singhkha, Deputy Inspector of Investigation at That Phanom Police Station, received a report of a body found in a field near Kab Phuang village, Nam Kam Subdistrict, That Phanom District. Senior officers, forensic experts, and medical personnel from Somdej Phra Yupparat That Phanom Hospital were dispatched to the scene. The body was discovered beneath a tamarind tree, severely decomposed. Authorities estimated that the man had been dead for nearly 20 days, making facial identification impossible. The deceased was found wearing dark blue jeans and a green sports shirt, with a sun hat and a pair of glasses nearby. A yellow bicycle was also located approximately 50 metres from the body. Crucially, a state welfare card found in the deceased’s shoulder bag identified him as Mr Surasak, 74, a resident of That Phanom Municipality, whose home was about 10 kilometres from the site of the discovery. Relatives later confirmed his identity. The first person to discover the body, Mr Uthai Noitulang, 52, said he had been tending to his cattle when he stumbled upon the scene. He recognised the deceased as an elderly man he had often seen cycling and walking around the area but had no idea he had gone missing. The victim’s sister-in-law, Mrs Jarunee Muentree, 65, confirmed that Mr Surasak suffered from both a stroke-related condition and Alzheimer’s disease. He frequently cycled around neighbouring villages, often losing his way. He had last been seen on 25 February, after which his disappearance was reported to That Phanom Police Station. Despite extensive searches by his relatives, no trace was found until this tragic discovery. It is believed that he became disoriented while cycling, wandered into the rice fields, and ultimately succumbed to exhaustion or illness. The family has stated that they do not suspect foul play and will proceed with traditional funeral rites. -- 2025-03-22

Lorry Smuggling 18 Million Meth Pills & Large Drug Haul Seized on Route to Bangkok Warehouse Pictures courtesy of Matichon. Authorities have intercepted a lorry attempting to smuggle a massive consignment of illegal drugs, including 18.2 million methamphetamine pills, 750 kilograms of crystal meth and 300 kilograms of ketamine. The vehicle, which had been modified to conceal the narcotics, was en route to a warehouse in Bangkok when it was stopped by anti-narcotics police. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355448-lorry-smuggling-18-million-meth-pills-large-drug-haul-seized-on-route-to-bangkok-warehouse/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon. Authorities have intercepted a lorry attempting to smuggle a massive consignment of illegal drugs, including 18.2 million methamphetamine pills, 750 kilograms of crystal meth and 300 kilograms of ketamine. The vehicle, which had been modified to conceal the narcotics, was en route to a warehouse in Bangkok when it was stopped by anti-narcotics police. On 21 March, officers from the Narcotics Suppression Bureau (NSB) had been monitoring the suspicious articulated lorry, which had passed through three security checkpoints on the Mae Sot–Tak highway. The vehicle was eventually intercepted on the Nakhon Sawan bypass at kilometre markers 6–7, heading towards the capital. Upon inspection, police discovered that the lorry’s container had been altered with steel panels to create a hidden compartment. Inside, they found 91 white sacks labelled with various markings, including the word “Orange,” which was later confirmed to contain methamphetamine pills. Other sacks marked with the letter “K” contained ketamine, while a separate stash held crystal meth. The haul was confirmed to include: • Methamphetamine pills – 18,200,000 tablets (91 sacks) • Ketamine – 300 kilograms (12 sacks, 25kg each) • Crystal meth (Ice) – 750 kilograms (30 sacks, 25kg each) Two suspects were arrested at the scene and confessed to transporting the drugs from northern Thailand to a central warehouse, where they were to be collected and distributed further. Following the seizure, the Rachamanu Task Force in Mae Sot reviewed security camera footage from three key checkpoints along the Tak–Mae Sot route: Huai Hin Fon Security Post in Mae Pa, Ban Huai Ya-u Checkpoint in Mae Lamao, and Tha Lo Checkpoint in Mueang Tak District. The footage revealed that at 08:21 on 21 March, the lorry passed through Huai Hin Fon with one of its container doors partially open, seemingly empty. The drugs had been carefully hidden at the front of the container, while the rear was left visibly vacant, creating the illusion of an empty vehicle. This deception allowed the lorry to pass through all three checkpoints undetected. Authorities have confirmed that their thorough investigation found no evidence of collusion from checkpoint officers. The two arrested suspects remain in custody as further investigations continue into the smuggling network. This latest seizure is one of the largest drug busts in Thailand this year, highlighting the ongoing challenge of narcotics trafficking through the country’s northern border regions. -- 2025-03-22

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A woman attempting to evade a police checkpoint by driving against traffic ended up colliding with officers in a late-night incident, leaving two policemen injured and prompting legal action. The incident occurred at 00:20 on 22 March on Highway 345, near the Ratchaphruek intersection in Pak Kret, Nonthaburi. Rescue volunteers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation rushed to the scene after being alerted by Chaiyaphruek Police Station. At the scene, two injured officers were found lying on the road. Police Lance Corporal Nongsri Kotchathuean, 23, and Police Lance Corporal Chayanan Nuimak, 21, both from the Nonthaburi Provincial Investigation Unit and temporarily assigned to Chaiyaphruek Police Station, had sustained leg injuries. Their damaged Honda CBR police motorcycle lay nearby. The vehicle involved, a white Honda City with registration number from Bangkok, had damage to its rear right wheel arch. The driver, identified as Ms. Kasira, was taken into custody. A breathalyser test revealed her blood alcohol level was well above the legal limit. According to Police Lance Corporal Nongsri, officers had set up a traffic checkpoint on Highway 345, opposite the Ratchaphruek Highway Police Booth, to enforce traffic regulations and conduct alcohol tests. The white Honda City approached the checkpoint but suddenly swerved and drove against the flow of traffic to escape. Suspicious of the driver’s behaviour, he and his colleague, Officer Chayanan, pursued the vehicle on their motorcycle, signalling for it to stop. However, the driver refused to comply. The chase continued until the car abruptly braked and swerved, while attempting to turn onto an overpass leading to New Ratchaphruek Road. The sudden manoeuvre caused the pursuing motorcycle to crash into the car’s right side at speed. Following the crash, police detained Ms. Kasira and transferred her to the investigating officers, where she now faces charges of driving under the influence. Authorities continue to investigate the incident and urge motorists to comply with law enforcement to avoid endangering lives. -- 2025-03-22

Drink-Driving Woman Crashes into Police Avoiding Check Point Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A woman attempting to evade a police checkpoint by driving against traffic ended up colliding with officers in a late-night incident, leaving two policemen injured and prompting legal action. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355446-drink-driving-woman-crashes-into-police-avoiding-check-point/

Aussie in Legal Bind for Abetting Crime Boss's Thai Escape Picture courtesy of the Australian Federal Police In a dramatic turn of events this week, a 57-year-old Australian man finds himself in court, accused of facilitating the escape of a reputed organised crime figure to Thailand. Hailing from Bargara, Bundaberg, Queensland, the individual allegedly assisted in a maritime escape leading to Thailand, alongside an unidentified accomplice. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355362-aussie-in-legal-bind-for-abetting-crime-bosss-thai-escape/

Thailand Holds Off on 30-Day Visa-Free Change Decision Picture courtesy of Nikkei Asia // Ken Kobayashi Thailand's Ministry of Foreign Affairs is still deliberating the possibility of reducing the visa-free period for foreign tourists from 60 days to 30 days, with no decision made thus far. Ministry spokesman Nikorndej Balankura reassured that no new visa regulations are currently in place, so tourists visiting Thailand remain unaffected for now. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355394-thailand-holds-off-on-30-day-visa-free-change-decision/

Bee Swarm Chaos at Thai Temple Market Injures Six Picture courtesy of Khaosod A tranquil day at the Phasukaram Temple’s amulet market in Warin Chamrap, Ubon Ratchathani, erupted into chaos as a wild bee swarm caused panic, ultimately resulting in six injuries. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355420-bee-swarm-chaos-at-thai-temple-market-injures-six/

to continue: Thailand Live Sunday 23 March https://aseannow.com/topic/1355462-thailand-live-sunday-23-march-2025/

Tourist Attacked by Transgender on Pattaya Beach Road: Calls for Increased Security Picture courtesy of SiamChon. An incident of violence erupted in the early hours of March 22 near the entrance to Pattaya’s Walking Street. A foreign national was assaulted by a transgender in full view of passersby, with the attack being caught on video by onlookers. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355409-tourist-attacked-by-transgender-on-pattaya-beach-road-calls-for-increased-security/