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Picture captured from CCTV, shown by CH7. A longstanding feud between two 15-year-old male students over a mutual romantic interest culminated in a stabbing during lunch break at a school in Hatyai, Songkhla Province. The incident occurred on the final day of end-of-term examinations for students. The altercation began as a student identified only as “Palm” was ascending the school building with friends when he was confronted by “O”, a fellow student from a different class. O, who had been harbouring resentment since an unresolved dispute in the first term the year, allegedly attacked Palm with a short knife near the second-floor staircase. Despite the assault, Palm defended himself, retaliating with punches. The confrontation left classmates in shock, with female students intervening to separate the pair and attend to the injuries. Following the scuffle, O fled the scene by scaling the school wall and escaping on a motorcycle, missing the final three afternoon examinations. Teachers promptly informed Palm’s parents and transported him to Hatyai Hospital. He sustained eight stab wounds to his left cheek, right chest, waist, and ribs; however, the injuries were superficial and not life-threatening. According to Palm, the conflict originated from both students’ affection for the same female student, leading to tensions since the first term of the year. Although a senior student attempted to mediate in the second term, the dispute remained unresolved and festering until it erupted into violence on the last day of examinations. The incident underscores the need for effective conflict resolution mechanisms within educational institutions to prevent such disputes from escalating into violence.

UPDATE Men Arrested for Stabbing Over Pawned Motorcycle in Nakhon Sawan Picture from responders. Two men have been arrested in connection with the brutal murder of a cannabis seller in Nakhon Sawan, allegedly over a long-standing dispute regarding a pawned motorcycle. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355180-man-found-stabbed-40-times-in-rented-room-in-nakhon-sawan/#findComment-19674800

UPDATE Men Arrested for Stabbing Over Pawned Motorcycle in Nakhon Sawan Picture from responders. Two men have been arrested in connection with the brutal murder of a cannabis seller in Nakhon Sawan, allegedly over a long-standing dispute regarding a pawned motorcycle. Officers from the Nakhon Sawan Provincial Police apprehended Mr Peerapat, 19, and Mr Thatthapong, 28, for the fatal stabbing of Mr Parusak, whose body was discovered in a rented room in Nong Pling, Mueang district. The victim had sustained 40 stab wounds. During police interrogation, Mr Thatthapong admitted that the dispute arose after the victim had borrowed his motorcycle and pawned it, repeatedly failing to redeem it despite numerous requests. The motorcycle, he claimed, had sentimental value as it was a gift from his late mother. On the day of the incident, Mr Thatthapong and Mr Peerapat went to confront Mr Parusak about retrieving the vehicle. When the victim once again failed to provide a clear answer, Mr Thatthapong flew into a rage, grabbed a knife from the house, and repeatedly stabbed him. Mr Peerapat reportedly attempted to intervene but was injured in the process. Following the murder, Mr Thatthapong disposed of his bloodstained clothing by burning it under a bridge. He then packed his belongings and fled to stay with relatives in Ban Rai, Lat Yao district. However, police later tracked him down and took him into custody. The suspects now face legal proceedings as authorities continue their investigation. -- 2025-03-21

Pattaya Hosts Meeting to Regulate Indian Restaurant Businesses for Food Safety Compliance Picture courtesy of TMN On 19 March, a meeting was held at the Tap Phraya Meeting Room in Pattaya City Hall, chaired by Mr. Banlue Kullawanish, the President of the Pattaya City Council. The purpose of the meeting was to provide guidance on the operations of food businesses in the Pattaya area, with the focus on Indian restaurants. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355367-pattaya-hosts-meeting-to-regulate-indian-restaurant-businesses-for-food-safety-compliance/

Picture courtesy of TMN On 19 March, a meeting was held at the Tap Phraya Meeting Room in Pattaya City Hall, chaired by Mr. Banlue Kullawanish, the President of the Pattaya City Council. The purpose of the meeting was to provide guidance on the operations of food businesses in the Pattaya area, with the focus on Indian restaurants. The meeting was attended by Mr. Lakhman Singh, President of the Indian Association, along with restaurant operators and relevant authorities, including Mr. Pornphiroam Seuangdaeng, Director of the Environmental Health Promotion Division from the Pattaya Public Health and Environment Office. As Pattaya continues to attract a significant influx of foreign tourists, particularly from India, the number of Indian restaurants in the city has grown rapidly. However, it has been noted that some of these restaurants are operating without the necessary permits, and some are not adhering to food safety regulations as outlined in the Public Health Act B.E. 2535 (1992). Specifically, certain establishments have failed to follow proper hygiene and sanitation standards as required by the Ministry of Public Health, which mandates that food business operators undergo training on food safety and hygiene practices. During the meeting, officials explained the necessary steps for Indian restaurant operators to comply with food safety regulations and emphasised the importance of environmental awareness. The session aimed to instill a sense of responsibility among restaurant owners in maintaining high standards of hygiene, which is critical not only for the well-being of customers but also for the city’s reputation as a leading tourist destination. Mr. Banlue Kullawanish stressed that the initiative is part of Pattaya’s broader effort to enhance the city’s image by ensuring that all food establishments operate with the highest quality standards. By doing so, the city aims to elevate the food industry in the tourist zone and provide a safer, cleaner environment for both residents and visitors. The city authorities are committed to promoting food safety while preserving the environment, with a focus on improving the quality of service in the tourism industry. This initiative also reflects Pattaya’s growing commitment to supporting businesses that contribute positively to the city’s economy while ensuring public health and safety. Pattaya’s proactive approach in educating and regulating the local food business sector is expected to not only enhance customer satisfaction but also to set a benchmark for the restaurant industry in tourist-heavy areas. -- 2025-03-21

Authorities Intercept Illegal Migrant Transport on Rantee River Picture courtesy of Kaoded. Kanchanaburi security forces have intercepted a boat carrying 19 illegal migrants attempting to use Thailand as a transit route to a neighbouring country. The operation was conducted by Ladya Task Force under the Surasi Force, in coordination with the Royal Thai Police and local authorities in Sangkhla Buri District. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355364-authorities-intercept-illegal-migrant-transport-on-rantee-river/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. Kanchanaburi security forces have intercepted a boat carrying 19 illegal migrants attempting to use Thailand as a transit route to a neighbouring country. The operation was conducted by Ladya Task Force under the Surasi Force, in coordination with the Royal Thai Police and local authorities in Sangkhla Buri District. Major General Atsadawut Panyarachun, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division and head of the Surasi Force, confirmed that intelligence reports had alerted them to an illegal migrant smuggling operation in Pak Nam Rantee, Sangkhla Buri. In response, he ordered Colonel Phannasak Phreawpanich, Commander of the 29th Infantry Regiment and head of the Ladya Task Force, to deploy security teams alongside Border Patrol Police Unit 134, Sangkhla Buri Police Station, and local administrative officers to monitor the area. While patrolling the Rantee River, officers spotted a longtail boat carrying suspicious cargo covered with a tarpaulin. Upon seeing the authorities, the boat’s operator accelerated down the river, prompting a high-speed pursuit. Security forces managed to intercept the vessel and ordered it to stop for inspection. Upon investigation, officers found the boat was piloted by “Mr A” with “Mr B”, acting as a lookout. Both men confessed that they had been transporting 19 illegal migrants from Ban Wang Ka, Sangkhla Buri, after they had crossed into Thailand on foot via a natural border route. The operation was reportedly orchestrated by “Mr Chai”, a Myanmar national, who arranged for the migrants to travel via vehicle to the river, where they were then ferried across. The plan was for the group to disembark at Huai Farang Pier in Prang Phle Subdistrict, from where a vehicle was set to take them to Malaysia for work. The migrants had reportedly agreed to pay smugglers between 15,000 and 25,000 baht upon reaching their destination. All suspects were detained and transferred to Sangkhla Buri Police Station for further legal proceedings. Meanwhile, the Ladya Task Force and Surasi Force continue to conduct land and river patrols to prevent further illegal border crossings, in line with the policies set by the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Army. Security forces have reported a series of successful arrests in recent months as they intensify operations against illegal migration and cross-border crime -- 2025-03-21

Mystery Surrounds Murder of Unknown Man Found in Krabi Forest Picture courtesy of CH7. In a chilling case under investigation, by Krabi Police, the body of an unidentified man, believed to be aged between 30 and 40, has been discovered in a remote area of a palm plantation in Ao Luek District, Krabi. Initial findings suggest that the man, who had been shot and had been dead for at least five to six days. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355363-mystery-surrounds-murder-of-unknown-man-found-in-krabi-forest/

Picture courtesy of CH7. In a chilling case under investigation, by Krabi Police, the body of an unidentified man, believed to be aged between 30 and 40, has been discovered in a remote area of a palm plantation in Ao Luek District, Krabi. Initial findings suggest that the man, who had been shot and had been dead for at least five to six days. Police from Regional Police Division 8 and Ao Luek Police Station attended the scene after reports of the body, which was found in an overgrown area full of thick grass and trees. Investigators recovered several key pieces of evidence, including three 9mm bullet casings and a bloodstained glass bottle near the body, which were secured for forensic analysis. Upon examination of the body, no identification documents were found, and the man’s identity remains unknown. However, police began their investigation by focusing on the clothing he was wearing. A football-style shirt with the name “Lt. Col. Wisak” printed on the front and “Kiri Rat Nikhom Police Station” on the back was discovered, offering a potential lead. The shirt’s distinctive markings suggest a possible connection to law enforcement, though this remains unconfirmed. Additionally, the man was found with two flip-flops, which were secured to his arms, though it remains unclear if they belonged to him or another person, further complicating the investigation. As part of the ongoing investigation, police found a recent report of a missing persons, which was filed at Phalay Phaya Police Station for a 33-year-old man. Investigators are looking at the possibility that the two cases may be connected. The police are currently coordinating with the missing man’s family to confirm whether the deceased is the same individual. At present, the investigation is focused on reviewing CCTV footage from the surrounding area to trace potential suspects and uncover more information regarding the circumstances of the death, including whether the man was murdered at the scene or if his body was dumped as part of a larger cover-up. The investigation is ongoing. -- 2025-03-21

Drug-Crazed Man Kills Hospital Worker, Injures Her Two Children in Loei Picture courtesy of ThaiRath. A drug-intoxicated man broke into the home of a hospital worker in the early hours of the morning of 20 March, brutally attacking and killing her before injuring her two children as they attempted to defend their mother. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355297-drug-crazed-man-kills-hospital-worker-injures-her-two-children-in-loei/

Picture courtesy of ThaiRath. A drug-intoxicated man broke into the home of a hospital worker in the early hours of the morning of 20 March, brutally attacking and killing her before injuring her two children as they attempted to defend their mother. Police from Nong Hin Station were alerted to the incident at 04:30 in Moo 5, Tat Kha, Nong Hin district. Officers, along with medical personnel and rescue teams, rushed to the scene, where they discovered the victim, Ms Natcha Netthip, 53, a hospital worker at Nong Hin Hospital, lying in a pool of blood at the back door of her home. She had suffered fatal machete wounds to the head, right arm, and torso. Inside the house, police found extensive bloodstains and two injured individuals: Mr Phakphon Kakong, 25, the victim’s son, who had sustained a deep head wound, and Ms Kulthida Netthip, 16, who had nearly lost her left hand to the attacker’s blade. Both were rushed to Nong Hin Hospital for emergency treatment. The suspect, identified as Mr Ratchanon Unkaew, 22, a friend of Mr Phakphon, fled to his home roughly 500 metres from the crime scene. Police later found him lying in bed, his clothes stained with blood. Upon questioning, he admitted to the attack, stating that he had used a machete he found inside the victim’s house. Investigations revealed that the suspect had been riding his black Honda Wave motorcycle, a gift from his father, when he arrived at the victim’s home. He climbed through a side window and entered Ms Natcha’s bedroom, where she is believed to have woke to find him. A violent struggle ensued, during which he repeatedly struck her with the machete. She managed to escape the bedroom but collapsed and died near the back door. Hearing the commotion, her two children rushed to help but were also attacked. The suspect then calmly rode home as if nothing had happened. Local authorities tracked him down after the village chief broadcast an announcement, urging the suspect’s father to report him. Upon investigation, the father discovered his son in his bloodstained clothes and immediately alerted the police. Mr Ratchanon was known to authorities, having a history of drug abuse and theft. Three years prior, he had stabbed a vendor at the municipal market in Nong Hin while she was in a restroom. He served nine months in prison but was released, only to reoffend. His father revealed that the suspect had been using methamphetamine and cannabis since the age of 15. Despite multiple attempts at rehabilitation, he continued his violent behaviour. Authorities have now taken him into custody for further legal proceedings. -- 2025-03-20

Woman Escapes Foreign Attacker After Harrowing Ordeal in Pattaya Picture courtesy of SiamChon. A 30-year-old Thai woman reported her ordeal in which she was allegedly assaulted, drugged, and held captive by a foreign national, of unknown nationality, in a Pattaya condominium. The victim, referred to as Ms. Fah, has now filed a police report, warning others to be cautious when using dating apps. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355296-woman-escapes-foreign-attacker-after-harrowing-ordeal-in-pattaya/

Picture courtesy of SiamChon. A 30-year-old Thai woman reported her ordeal in which she was allegedly assaulted, drugged, and held captive by a foreign national, of unknown nationality, in a Pattaya condominium. The victim, referred to as Ms. Fah, has now filed a police report, warning others to be cautious when using dating apps. According to her statement, the incident occurred on 18 March after she met the suspect through a dating application. The foreign man lured her to his condominium, under the pretext of hiring her to clean his apartment for 500 baht. Ms. Fah, who had recently moved to Pattaya in search of work, accepted the offer as she needed money while looking for a job in a bar. Upon arriving at the condominium, she began cleaning as agreed, but events quickly took a sinister turn. The suspect allegedly began harassing her, forcing her to remove her clothing under the excuse that she was sweating. He then insisted she wear a maid outfit he had prepared and set up a camera in the room. When she resisted, he became violent, punching her in the stomach and physically assaulting her. Ms. Fah further claimed that he forced her to consume crystal methamphetamine and rubbed himself against her body. He then attempted to coerce her into engaging in sexual activities, specifically requesting anal intercourse, offering additional money as an incentive. When she refused, he allegedly became even more aggressive, yelling erratically and continuing to use drugs. Fearing for her life, she devised a plan to escape. She pretended to comply with his demands and suggested they take a shower together. Seizing the moment when he was distracted, she managed to flee from the apartment and return to safety. Initially, she hesitated to report the incident, fearing she might be arrested for having drugs in her system. However, after consulting with friends, she gathered the courage to file a complaint with Pattaya City Police, on 20 March. Ms. Fah has since urged women to exercise extreme caution when using dating apps and to avoid trusting strangers too easily. Police investigators, along with tourist police, have launched a search for the suspect and are working to gather evidence to ensure his swift arrest and prosecution. -- 2025-03-21

Drunk Motorcyclist Caught Riding Wrong Way on Tollway, Sentenced to Four Months’ Detention Picture courtesy of Matichon. Bangkok police arrested a 52-year-old man for riding his motorcycle against traffic on the Don Mueang Tollway while intoxicated. The suspect, identified only as Mr. Boonthan, was sentenced to four months’ detention by the Dusit District Court, which also ordered the confiscation of his motorcycle. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355295-drunk-motorcyclist-caught-riding-wrong-way-on-tollway-sentenced-to-four-months’-detention/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Bangkok police arrested a 52-year-old man for riding his motorcycle against traffic on the Don Mueang Tollway while intoxicated. The suspect, identified only as Mr. Boonthan, was sentenced to four months’ detention by the Dusit District Court, which also ordered the confiscation of his motorcycle. At approximately 18:00 on 18 March, officers from the Vibhavadi Traffic Control Centre, acting under the orders of senior Bangkok Metropolitan Police officials, apprehended Mr. Boonthan for “reckless driving endangering public safety” and “driving under the influence of alcohol or intoxicants.” Authorities reported that Mr. Boonthan had been riding his white and red Honda Wave motorcycle in the wrong direction along the elevated tollway, starting from the Din Daeng off-ramp and continuing past the Suthisan, Lat Phrao, and Ratchadaphisek exits. He was seen riding along the rightmost lane, which is designated for high-speed traffic. Traffic police, who were managing congestion during rush hour, were alerted to the incident by radio dispatch. They pursued Mr. Boonthan as he exited the tollway, rode against traffic along Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, and attempted to re-enter the main lanes near a Nissan dealership. He was eventually intercepted at the inbound Suthisan intersection flyover. Upon being stopped, police found no illegal items on his person, but he exhibited signs of intoxication. A breathalyser test confirmed a blood alcohol level well above the legal limit. Security camera footage later confirmed that Mr. Boonthan had recklessly ridden his motorcycle against oncoming traffic during peak hours, posing a significant risk to other road users. He admitted to consuming alcohol after completing errands before attempting to return home to Pathum Thani. Following his arrest, he was charged and presented before the Dusit District Court on 20 March. The court sentenced him to four months’ detention and ordered the confiscation of his motorcycle. -- 2025-03-21

Chinese Scam Network Busted in Pattaya, Fugitive with Interpol Red Notice Arrested Picture courtesy of Khoasod. Thai cyber police have arrested two Chinese nationals in a pool villa in Pattaya, uncovering a major scam network and detaining a fugitive wanted for a high-profile kidnapping and extortion case in Cambodia. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355293-chinese-scam-network-busted-in-pattaya-fugitive-with-interpol-red-notice-arrested/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. Thai cyber police have arrested two Chinese nationals in a pool villa in Pattaya, uncovering a major scam network and detaining a fugitive wanted for a high-profile kidnapping and extortion case in Cambodia. The operation, led by Police Lieutenant General Trirong Phiwphan, Commissioner of the Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB), resulted in the arrest of Ms Di Wu (27) and Mr Zhou Zongyon (29). The pair were apprehended in Pattaya, Chonburi Province, following an extensive investigation into fraudulent cryptocurrency investments. Authorities had been tracking Ms Wu for her role in an online investment scam that targeted victims through fraudulent USDT (Tether) cryptocurrency schemes. Thai police confirmed that she had received 18.4 million USDT, equivalent to 618 million baht, through fraudulent activities, with one known victim being a Thai schoolteacher. Upon raiding the villa, officers discovered Mr Zhou Zongyon hiding inside. His suspicious behaviour led police to check his passport, which lacked official Thai entry stamps, indicating illegal entry from Cambodia via an unauthorised border crossing. A subsequent investigation, conducted in coordination with the Chinese Embassy, revealed that Zhou was a high-profile fugitive wanted by Chinese authorities. He was subject to an Interpol Red Notice for his involvement in a kidnapping case in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, where he and accomplices allegedly abducted a Chinese woman, tortured her, and sent images of her injuries to her family, demanding a 1 million yuan ransom. The victim remains missing. Investigators also found that Zhou was involved in international money laundering operations linked to a call centre scam network operating across Southeast Asia. Lieutenant General Trirong confirmed that both suspects will be prosecuted under Thai law before being handed over to Chinese authorities. During the raid, police also seized four Thai mule bank accounts, used for laundering fraudulent funds. Arrest warrants have been issued for two Thai accomplices, with further investigations underway. Authorities continue to expand the probe, aiming to dismantle the entire criminal network and bring all involved to justice. -- 2025-03-21

Man Fatally Struck by Train While Crossing Tracks in Ayutthaya A incident occurred in Phachi district, Ayutthaya, during the night of 19 March, when a 59-year-old man was fatally struck by a train while attempting to cross the railway tracks after finishing work. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355292-man-fatally-struck-by-train-while-crossing-tracks-in-ayutthaya/

Picture from responders. A incident occurred in Phachi district, Ayutthaya, during the night of 19 March, when a 59-year-old man was fatally struck by a train while attempting to cross the railway tracks after finishing work. Police reports indicate that the incident took place approximately one kilometre from Phachi Railway Station, in a poorly lit area. The victim, identified as Mr. Saen Alaisuk, a resident of Buri Ram province, suffered multiple fractures and severe lacerations after being hit by Bangkok–Lopburi Train No. 317. The train came to a halt at the scene as authorities conducted an investigation. Pol. Lt. Pallop Intharachet, an investigator from Phachi Police Station, arrived at the location alongside rescue personnel from the Ayutthaya Ruamjai Association. The team found Mr. Saen’s body beneath the train. His identification card and car keys were discovered on him, confirming his identity. According to Mr. Siwaphak Sangsamran, a rescue worker, authorities were alerted to the incident by railway station staff who had reported a train colliding with a pedestrian. Upon arrival, emergency responders confirmed that the man had died at the scene. Mr. Narong, 54, a colleague of the deceased, revealed that Mr. Saen worked as a trailer truck driver for a high-speed rail construction company. After work, he would walk across the railway tracks to reach the construction site to collect his car, before driving home to Saraburi. Preliminary investigations suggest that Mr. Saen attempted to cross the tracks, which consist of four separate railway lines, in near-total darkness. It is believed he failed to notice the approaching train, which struck him fatally. Authorities have transported the body to the Institute of Forensic Science in Pathum Thani for a post-mortem examination. The victim’s family has been notified. The train resumed its journey to Lopburi after the investigation was completed. -- 2025-03-21

Elderly Woman Killed in Lorry Crash in Udon Thani A 74-year-old woman was killed after a 10-wheel lorry struck her motorcycle and ran over her on Thamma Chedi Road, near Mukh Montri Municipal School, in the heart of Udon Thani. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355291-elderly-woman-killed-in-lorry-crash-in-udon-thani/

Picture from responders. A 74-year-old woman was killed after a 10-wheel lorry struck her motorcycle and ran over her on Thamma Chedi Road, near Mukh Montri Municipal School, in the heart of Udon Thani. The fatal crash occurred at approximately 16.30 on 19 March. Police, medics from Udon Thani Hospital, and rescue workers from the Udon Sawang Methatham Foundation rushed to the scene after receiving reports of a collision involving a goods vehicle. Upon arrival, emergency responders found a Mitsubishi 10-wheel lorry loaded with soil, stopped in the road. A red-and-black Honda Scoopy motorbike lay near the vehicle’s front wheels, while the lifeless body of Mrs. Pinthong, a resident of Ban Chang, lay beneath the lorry’s left rear wheel. The victim had suffered severe injuries, including fractures to her neck, shoulders and legs. The lorry driver, Mr. Narubeth, a resident of Nong Khai province, remained at the scene to cooperate with police. He explained that he had been transporting soil from a pit in Ban Bonoi, Nong Samrong Subdistrict, to a construction site near Udon Thani Airport. “After unloading the last trip, I was returning to the pit, using the city route. I stopped at a red light at an intersection and saw three motorcycles ahead of me. When the light turned green, I pulled away, but I only saw two motorcycles move forward. I assumed the third had turned off the road. Moments later, I felt my truck run over something, so I stopped and got out to check. That’s when I saw the accident. I am truly sorry for what has happened,” he said. Rescue workers used the victim’s mobile phone to contact her family, who arrived at the scene in tears. Initially hoping she had only suffered injuries, her children were devastated upon learning of her death. Overcome with emotion, they climbed into the rescue vehicle to see their mother one last time, kissing her forehead and closing her eyes before embracing her body in grief. Local vendor Ms. Beer 40, who runs a nearby stall, witnessed the aftermath. “I was sitting at my shop as usual when I heard a loud crash. I looked up and saw the lorry’s wheel rolling over a body. I was shocked. At first, I didn’t even realise a motorcycle was involved. I immediately called the authorities. Lorries do use this road occasionally, but today I noticed this particular lorry passing back and forth several times since morning. I never imagined such a tragedy would happen.” Police at Muang Udon Thani Police Station documented the scene and took the lorry driver into custody for further questioning. He also underwent an alcohol test. CCTV footage from a nearby laundrette recorded the crash, showing three motorcycles passing the shop, with the soil lorry closely following the victim’s bike. Investigators will examine the footage in detail and interview the driver further before deciding on legal proceedings. The victim’s body was taken to Udon Thani Hospital for a post-mortem examination before being released to her family for funeral rites. -- 2025-03-21

Former Yakuza Gang Member Arrested for Call Centre Scam and Money Laundering Picture courtesy of Matichon. Police have arrested six Japanese nationals in connection with call centre scams in two separate cases, including a former Yakuza gang member. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355290-former-yakuza-gang-member-arrested-for-call-centre-scam-and-money-laundering/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Police have arrested six Japanese nationals in connection with call centre scams in two separate cases, including a former Yakuza gang member. Pol. Gen. Thatchai Pitanilabutr, Inspector-General of the Royal Thai Police and Director of the Anti-Human Trafficking Centre, revealed details of the arrests, which were made following cooperation between Thai and Japanese authorities. Case 1: Former Yakuza Member Apprehended The first case was initiated when the Japanese Embassy in Thailand alerted the Immigration Bureau about a Japanese national wanted in Japan for assault, fraud, theft, and violations of the country’s Anti-Organised Crime Act. Authorities requested his deportation. The suspect, identified as Yamaguchi, was located in the Sathorn area of Bangkok, where immigration officers arrested him. Further investigations revealed that Yamaguchi was a former Yakuza gang member and the leader of a call centre gang operating in Cambodia and Vietnam, targeting Japanese citizens. Thai authorities discovered that Yamaguchi had been renting a luxury property in Sathorn for over 180,000 baht per month. He had also established a company called Last Samurai Japan in 2024, allegedly dealing in high-value art sales. Investigators suspect the company was a front for money laundering. Acting on a search warrant, police raided Yamaguchi’s residence, where they discovered four other Japanese nationals, all of whom had previous criminal records in Japan. Authorities also found assets worth over 30 million baht in a digital wallet, which is now under investigation. Yamaguchi was taken into custody, and Thai authorities are coordinating with Japanese officials for his extradition. Case 2: Call Centre Gang Financier Captured The second case involved Miyashita, a Japanese national wanted for theft. Thai authorities, working closely with their Japanese counterparts, tracked him down following a crackdown on call centre operations in neighbouring countries. Miyashita was captured by a militant group and handed over to authorities. He later confessed to working as a financial officer for a call centre gang since January. He has been charged under Thailand’s immigration laws, and efforts are underway to extradite him to Japan. Pol. Gen. Thatchai stated that Thailand and Japan would continue working together to combat transnational organised crime, particularly call centre scams. -- 2025-03-21

Mother and Daughter Killed in Lorry Collision in Prachinburi Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A devastating road crash in Prachinburi province has claimed the lives of a mother and daughter after an 18-wheeler lorry crushed their motorcycle at a three-way junction. The victims’ grieving relatives collapsed in tears upon arriving at the scene. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1355289-mother-and-daughter-killed-in-lorry-collision-in-prachinburi/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A devastating road crash in Prachinburi province has claimed the lives of a mother and daughter after an 18-wheeler lorry crushed their motorcycle at a three-way junction. The victims’ grieving relatives collapsed in tears upon arriving at the scene. The fatal collision occurred at approximately 13:00 on 20 March at the Ban Khao Maka intersection, near Ban Khao Poon, Village 2, Wang Tha Chang Subdistrict, Kabin Buri District. Officers from Wang Takhian Police Station, along with rescue personnel from the Sajja Buddhatham Foundation, responded to the emergency call. At the crash site, authorities discovered the 18-wheeler, which had veered off the road into a grassy area. Beneath the vehicle lay the bodies of the two victims, along with the wreckage of their Yamaha motorcycle, which had been completely crushed. The deceased were later identified as Ms. Natthakul, 53, and her daughter, Ms. Somruthai, 24. Both were residents of Village 19, Wang Tha Chang Subdistrict, Kabin Buri District. As relatives of the victims arrived at the scene, they broke down in grief upon seeing their loved ones’ remains. Emergency services transported the bodies to a local hospital for autopsy and further investigation. Authorities are now working to determine the exact cause of the crash before proceeding with legal action. The victims’ remains will be returned to their family for religious funeral rites. -- 2025-03-21