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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

Couple Arrested for Murder and Dismemberment Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A husband and wife have been arrested in Chiang Mai for the brutal murder and dismemberment of a young woman, whose remains were found buried behind their house in Nakhon Pathom. The victim’s father reported having a dream in which his daughter told him she had been killed and buried, leading to the discovery of her body. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355463-couple-arrested-for-murder-and-dismemberment/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A husband and wife have been arrested in Chiang Mai for the brutal murder and dismemberment of a young woman, whose remains were found buried behind their house in Nakhon Pathom. The victim’s father reported having a dream in which his daughter told him she had been killed and buried, leading to the discovery of her body. At around 13:00 on 22 March, Police Lieutenant Somphop Niamcharoen, an investigating officer at Don Tum Police Station, Nakhon Pathom province, was alerted by the investigative team of Nakhon Chai Si Police Station that human remains had been found behind a house in Moo 5, Don Ruak Subdistrict, Don Tum District. He coordinated with forensic experts and rescue workers from Sukhsalanukroh Foundation before proceeding to the scene with Police Colonel Yonglit Supaphon, the Don Tum Police Superintendent, and a team of investigators from Region 7 Police Headquarters. Upon excavation, police uncovered human remains, including a head, bones, and hair. The victim was identified as Ms. Piyawan (22), also known as Ann, from Bang Rakam Subdistrict, Nakhon Chai Si District, Nakhon Pathom. Her relatives had reported her missing on 16 March at Nakhon Chai Si Police Station. Another search team, assisted by Sukhsalanukroh Foundation divers, scoured an area near the Phaniang Taek Dam in Mueang District, where the suspects allegedly dumped additional remains. Ms. Piyawan was last seen on 4 March, leaving her sister’s house at 16:00 to collect a debt from Ms. Phattharaporn (21). She reportedly left her child with her sister, saying she would return shortly. For over ten days, her family was able to exchange text messages with her, but she refused to video call, and the tone of her messages seemed suspicious. Meanwhile, Ms. Phattharaporn and her husband, Mr. Narongchai, also disappeared, leading to suspicions that they were involved in her disappearance. In a chilling twist, the victim’s father reported having a dream in which his daughter appeared, telling him she had been murdered and buried behind the suspects’ house. After a thorough investigation, police tracked down Ms. Phattharaporn and Mr. Narongchai in Chiang Mai, where they had gone into hiding. Upon their arrest, they confessed to killing Ms. Piyawan, dismembering her body, burning it, and burying the remains behind their house. The motive, according to their statement, was anger over the victim’s repeated demands for repayment and her offensive language. The suspects are currently being transported back to Nakhon Pathom for further questioning and legal proceedings. -- 2025-03-22

Cyber Police Arrest Hua Hin Teen Gang Running Online Gambling Website Picture courtesy of Khoasod. Cyber police have arrested a gang of young entrepreneurs in Hua Hin who set up an online gambling website under the LAVAMAX1688 network. Over an eight-month period, the operation saw financial transactions exceeding 8 million baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355461-cyber-police-arrest-hua-hin-teen-gang-running-online-gambling-website/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. Cyber police have arrested a gang of young entrepreneurs in Hua Hin who set up an online gambling website under the LAVAMAX1688 network. Over an eight-month period, the operation saw financial transactions exceeding 8 million baht. At a press conference on 22 Match, held at the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD) headquarters in Muang Thong Thani, Pol. Lt. Gen. Trairong Phiwphan, Commissioner of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), along with senior officers, announced the arrests of the suspects involved in the illicit online gambling network. The investigation, led by the Special News and Digital Tools Analysis Division, uncovered that LAVAMAX1688 had amassed over a thousand registered members, with substantial financial activity across multiple bank accounts. These accounts were systematically categorised for different purposes: receiving bets, paying winnings, holding funds temporarily, and distributing profits to beneficiaries. Further inquiries revealed that the suspects, all young adults, had established their base of operations in Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan, and had assigned specific roles within their group to manage the gambling business efficiently. Based on the evidence gathered, officers obtained arrest warrants from Khon Kaen Provincial Court for seven individuals connected to the operation. On 21 March 2025, cyber police carried out searches at three locations in Hua Hin: 1. A rented apartment in Soi Hua Hin 126, where three suspects were apprehended. These individuals managed the financial transactions for the gambling platform. Officers expanded the search to a second-floor dormitory and arrested another three suspects who worked as customer service administrators, handling inquiries and chat messages. Each was reportedly paid a monthly salary of 12,000 baht. Authorities also seized five computer systems used for website management and customer interactions. 2. A house in Soi Hua Hin 126, belonging to one of the suspects. Though the suspect was not present at the time, police confiscated two computers and multiple bank account books. 3. A property in Soi Chonprathan 15, linked to a suspect arrested in the first raid. The house was found unoccupied. During initial interrogations, the arrested individuals admitted to setting up the illegal gambling operation. They revealed that a key figure in the scheme, identified as Mr. Natthaphon, who remains at large, had recruited them due to his expertise in technology. The group believed that operating from Hua Hin would shield them from law enforcement. The arrested suspects are now facing multiple charges, including: • Operating an unauthorised gambling business by promoting, advertising, or inducing others to participate in online gambling. • Money laundering by conspiring to commit financial crimes. Investigations are ongoing as police work to dismantle these illicit operations nationwide. -- 2025-03-22

Volunteer Firefighter Dies While Battling Forest Fire in Phayao Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A tragic incident has occurred in Phayao province, where a volunteer firefighter lost his life while attempting to control a forest fire in Wiang Lo Wildlife Sanctuary. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355459-volunteer-firefighter-dies-while-battling-forest-fire-in-phayao/

Pictures courtesy of Matichon. A tragic incident has occurred in Phayao province, where a volunteer firefighter lost his life while attempting to control a forest fire in Wiang Lo Wildlife Sanctuary. The incident was reported by Surapong Upakarn, head of the Nam Ngern Watershed Conservation Research Unit, who stated that at 09:00 on 22 March, officials from the unit set out on a patrol to contain wildfires in the Sum Toem–Huai Mae Thai area of Moo 9, Oi subdistrict, Pong district, Phayao. The operation continued until around 14:00 when disaster struck. During the operation, Ekachai Chaimongkol, 33, a resident of Pong district who was assisting government officials, suddenly suffered severe nose and mouth bleeding before collapsing. His colleagues quickly fashioned a stretcher and carried him from the ravine up to Sum Toem, a process that took approximately 30 minutes. A government vehicle then transported him out of the forest, reaching the main road around 15:00. An ambulance from the Ngim Subdistrict Administrative Organisation was dispatched, and he was rushed to Chiang Kham Hospital, arriving at approximately 15:30. Medical personnel confirmed his death shortly after arrival. His body has since been returned to his family home in Ban Mai Nam Ngern, Moo 12, Ngim subdistrict, Pong district, where religious rites are being held. Upon receiving news of the tragedy, Pong District Chief Kriangkrai Fipakphrao visited the victim’s family to express his condolences. He acknowledged the dangers faced by wildfire fighters, especially in steep and smoke-filled terrain, and stressed that every precaution is always taken. “This is a deeply saddening incident. Despite all efforts to ensure safety, the challenges of wildfire suppression can be extreme. We all mourn this loss and hope no one else will have to face such a fate in the line of duty,” Kriangkrai stated. Meanwhile, Phayao Governor Ratthaphon Naraditson has assigned Deputy Governor Phuthana Chomphooming to represent the province in offering condolences and support to the bereaved family. -- 2025-03-22

Truck Carrying Excavator Snags Power Lines, Transformer Crushes Car Roof Pictures courtesy of Workpoint. A truck transporting an excavator brought down multiple power poles after snagging overhead lines, causing a transformer on one of the poles, to crash onto the roof of a car. Miraculously, the driver escaped without injury. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1355458-truck-carrying-excavator-snags-power-lines-transformer-crushes-car-roof/

Pictures courtesy of Workpoint. A truck transporting an excavator brought down multiple power poles after snagging overhead lines, causing a transformer on one of the poles, to crash onto the roof of a car. Miraculously, the driver escaped without injury. The incident occurred at 09:30 on 22 March, near Wat Phai Khiao on Wat Weluwanaram Road in Don Mueang district, Bangkok. Police Lieutenant Sathawat Harnnok, an investigator from Don Mueang Police Station, received the report and coordinated with the Metropolitan Electricity Authority and Don Mueang District Office to assess the damage. At the scene, a truck carrying an excavator was found blocking a bend in the road. The excavator’s arm had caught a tensioned steel cable securing a power pole, causing it to snap and bring down several poles. Approximately 30 metres away, a black Suzuki Swift with Bangkok registration had been crushed by the fallen transformer, with its roof punctured near the driver’s seat. Mr. Ekalak the driver of the car, recounted the terrifying moment. He had been driving home, following the trailer at a distance. As the trailer turned right at a three-way junction near the temple, the excavator’s arm struck the steel cable, pulling the pole down. “I didn’t see the pole falling, only the wires ahead of me. I hesitated, unsure whether to move forward or reverse. In the end, I leaned towards the passenger seat and quickly opened the door to escape. That saved my life,” he said. The driver of the truck, who had transported the excavator from Pathum Thani, stated that he had made a similar delivery to the same location before without issue. “I didn’t realise the excavator arm had hooked the cable. I only knew something was wrong when I saw sparks and heard the transformer explode. I immediately stopped, jumped out, and saw the power poles had collapsed onto the car.” Police have summoned both drivers for further questioning at Don Mueang Police Station and are reviewing CCTV footage to determine liability. Legal proceedings will follow if negligence is established. -- 2025-03-22

Electricity Meter Reader Rescued After Falling into Deep Well, Shocked to Find Cobra Inside Rescue teams in Phichit province successfully saved an electricity meter reader who fell into a three-metre-deep well and broke both his ankles, only to be confronted by a cobra inside the confined space. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355457-electricity-meter-reader-rescued-after-falling-into-deep-well-shocked-to-find-cobra-inside/

Picture from responders. Rescue teams in Phichit province successfully saved an electricity meter reader who fell into a three-metre-deep well and broke both his ankles, only to be confronted by a cobra inside the confined space. The incident occurred in a remote rice field in Ban Tha Bua, Pho Thale district. According to reports from the Chalawan Rescue Team, the worker lost his footing and plunged into the borewell, suffering injuries. While struggling with his broken ankles, he was horrified to find a cobra spreading its hood in a defensive stance just metres away. In a desperate bid to defend himself, the man called for help, and the landowner quickly threw a stick into the well, urging him to fend off the snake while awaiting rescue. With limited equipment, rescue workers had to rely on sheer courage and resourcefulness to extract the injured man safely. The rescue, carried out with assistance from multiple emergency teams, was eventually successful. The victim has since been taken to Bang Mun Nak Hospital for treatment and is in stable condition. Authorities and rescue teams have expressed gratitude to all involved in the operation, highlighting the courage displayed for such a perilous mission. -- 2025-03-22

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