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Picture from responders. Three 14-year-old boys riding a motorcycle without helmets were killed in a head-on collision with a car while on their way to celebrate the end of their school exams by swimming at a nearby riverbank. The fatal crash occurred on the In Buri–Sapphaya Road, close to Wat Sakae in Phonang Dam Tok, Sapphaya District, Chai Nat. Police and emergency services rushed to the scene following the report. At the crash site, officers found the lifeless body of Atthawat, aged 14, who suffered multiple fractures and severe injuries. Two other boys, Dusit and Phumet, also aged 14, were taken to Sapphaya Hospital and Chainat Narenthorn Hospital but later succumbed to their injuries. The bodies have been sent to Sawanpracharak Hospital’s forensic institute for post-mortem examinations before being returned to their families for religious rites. Their motorcycle, a Honda Wave with registration number from Lopburi, was discovered in a nearby canal, severely damaged. The other vehicle involved was a silver Honda Civic, registration number from Chiang Mai, which sustained damage, including a broken front bumper, shattered windscreen, and a dented roof. The two occupants of the car, who suffered head injuries and abrasions, were taken to Sapphaya Hospital for treatment and are in stable condition. According to police investigations, the three boys were from a school in In Buri, Sing Buri. After finishing their final exams, they decided to ride to Wat Sakae’s sandy riverbank to celebrate. They were reportedly turning at speed, into the temple’s entrance when they collided head-on with the car, propelling both the bike and the boys over the roadside guardrail. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the collision. -- 2025-03-07

Elderly Woman Killed by Wild Elephant in Chanthaburi A 74-year-old woman has died after being attacked by a wild elephant in a durian orchard in Chanthaburi province. Officials from Khao Khitchakut National Park are working to drive the elephant out of the community and are coordinating support for the victim’s family. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353819-elderly-woman-killed-by-wild-elephant-in- chanthaburi/

Picture of scene from responders. A 74-year-old woman has died after being attacked by a wild elephant in a durian orchard in Chanthaburi province. Officials from Khao Khitchakut National Park are working to drive the elephant out of the community and are coordinating support for the victim’s family. Kongkiat Temtamnan, director of the Protected Areas Regional Office 2 (Sriracha), reported that at approximately midday on 5 March, volunteer wildlife patrol officers discovered a severely injured woman who had been attacked by an elephant in Moo 7, Chak Thai subdistrict, Khao Khitchakut district. The location is about 17 kilometres from Khao Khitchakut National Park. The victim, identified as 74-year-old Mrs Tid, a durian orchard owner, was found with her face covered in dirt, a severely injured left leg, and elephant footprints nearby. She was rushed her to Khao Khitchakut Hospital before she was transferred to Phra Pok Klao Hospital in Chanthaburi, where she later died. An official autopsy is pending. Chawinthat Pinkaeo, head of Khao Khitchakut National Park, along with national park rangers and rapid-response teams, inspected the scene and confirmed the presence of an elephant in the area after finding 50-centimetre-wide footprints nearby. Officials are closely monitoring the elephant, which has been spotted in the Phluang subdistrict of Khao Khitchakut district. Measures are being taken to prevent further incidents, with authorities coordinating efforts with local volunteers to drive the elephant away from agricultural and residential areas. In addition, national park officials have reached out to the victim’s family to provide support and ensure they receive all the assistance they are entitled to. The Protected Areas Regional Office 2 (Sriracha) has donated 10,000 baht to the family and sent a wreath in condolence on behalf of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation. Further support will be provided as needed. Authorities continue to monitor the elephant closely and are working to implement long-term solutions to prevent further conflicts between humans and wildlife in the region. -- 2025-03-07

Japanese Man Found Hanged in Woodland at Koh Larn Viewpoint A 48-year-old Japanese man was discovered dead by hanging in a wooded area near a scenic viewpoint behind Khao Phra Yai on Koh Larn. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353818-japanese-man-found-hanged-in-woodland-at-koh-larn-viewpoint/

Picture from responders. A 48-year-old Japanese man was discovered dead by hanging in a wooded area near a scenic viewpoint behind Khao Phra Yai on Koh Larn. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death. Police received the report at 16:30 on 6 March 2025. Investigating officer Lt. Anan Mahakit Asawakul from Pattaya City Police Station (Koh Larn branch) responded to the scene along with forensic specialists and rescue workers from the Sawang Boriboon Foundation. The body was found hanging from a tree in the forested area behind Khao Phra Yai, a popular viewpoint on Koh Larn. Nearby, officers discovered a black hooded jacket, a camouflage-patterned hiking hat, a shoulder bag, a cigarette packet, a lighter, a photograph of an elderly woman, two packs of Viagra, and a pair of Bluetooth earphones. A passport found on a stone bench in a nearby pavilion identified the deceased as a Japanese national, name withheld. According to Pattaya’s security officers, the discovery was made after a tourist reported seeing a body in the forest. Authorities secured the area before police conducted their investigation. Officers have not yet determined the exact cause, but suspect suicide and are reviewing CCTV footage from the area. The man’s body has been transported to Pattarakun Hospital for further examination while officials await contact from his family. If you or anyone you know is in emotional distress, please contact the Samaritans of Thailand 24-hour hotline: 02 713 6791 (English), 02 713 6793 (Thai) or the Thai Mental Health Hotline at 1323 (Thai). Please also contact your friends or relatives at this time if you have feelings of loneliness, stress or depression. Seek out help. -- 2025-03-07

Chinese National Arrested for Forging Thai ID Cards A major police operation has led to the arrest of several suspects involved in a Chinese-run network forging Thai national identification cards and extorting money from victims. The operation, dubbed “CIB Game On,” targeted criminal groups involved in producing fake Thai ID cards, with one Chinese suspect facing an international arrest warrant for a separate multi-billion-dollar fraud case in China. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353817-chinese-national-arrested-for-forging-thai-id-cards/

Picture of arrest. A major police operation has led to the arrest of several suspects involved in a Chinese-run network forging Thai national identification cards and extorting money from victims. The operation, dubbed “CIB Game On,” targeted criminal groups involved in producing fake Thai ID cards, with one Chinese suspect facing an arrest warrant for a separate multi-billion-dollar fraud case in China. The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) launched the operation on 5th March, conducting raids at 11 locations across seven provinces. The authorities apprehended six individuals, including Mr. Li, a Chinese national and his wife, Ms. Aye, at their residence in Chonburi. Additionally, four officials from Thailand’s immigration department were implicated in the fraud, facing charges of negligence and extortion. The investigation began in late 2023 when a Chinese victim reported to the police that he had been extorted for 5 million baht by immigration officers after he was found in possession of a forged Thai ID card. The victim had paid 1 million baht to obtain the fake identification through a Facebook group offering such services. The fake ID was used to facilitate the victim’s application for a passport, where officers from the Thai immigration police allegedly demanded a further 2 million baht to avoid arrest. The victim eventually filed a complaint with the authorities, leading to the ongoing investigation. It was revealed that the criminal network was composed of multiple groups, including a pair of suspects who arranged the sale of fake Thai ID cards. These documents were presented to Chinese nationals as legitimate, and victims were encouraged to use them to obtain Thai passports. The authorities also discovered that the extorted funds were laundered through a Chinese-owned nominee company, converting digital currencies into Thai baht. Among the key suspects, Mr. Li was found to have an outstanding red notice from China for his involvement in a 3 billion yuan (approximately 14 billion baht) fraud case dating back to 2019. Mr. Li had fled to Thailand in 2021 using a tourist visa, and he purchased a Thai ID card from a network specialising in fake documents, enabling him to live and work in Thailand undetected. The police have confirmed that the investigation will continue to expand, with further arrests expected as they uncover the full extent of the criminal network. The authorities are coordinating with Chinese law enforcement agencies to ensure that Mr. Li faces charges both in Thailand and in his home country. The operation highlights the growing issue of international crime syndicates using Thailand as a base for illicit activities, with a focus on identity fraud and money laundering. The investigation also uncovered that several government officials were involved in facilitating the illegal activities, raising concerns over corruption within the public sector. The police have vowed to pursue all those involved and hold them accountable under Thai law. -- 2025-03-07

Indian Woman Arrested Attempting to Smuggle Wildlife at Don Mueang Airport Authorities at Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok announced on 6 March, that have successfully intercepted an illegal wildlife smuggling attempt, leading to the arrest of an Indian woman on March 2. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353816-indian-woman-arrested-attempting-to-smuggle-wildlife-at-don-mueang-airport/

Picture of arrest. Authorities at Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok announced on 6 March, that have successfully intercepted an illegal wildlife smuggling attempt, leading to the arrest of an Indian woman on March 2. The woman, identified as 44-year-old Ms. Maina, was attempting to transport protected animals out of Thailand aboard AirAsia flight FD 137, bound for Bangalore, India. The arrest followed a tip-off from AirAsia staff, who alerted the authorities to suspicious activity. Upon inspecting the woman’s luggage, officials discovered three protected animals concealed in her bags. Among the smuggled creatures were a Common Spotted Cuscus, a type of marsupial and two Marmoset Monkeys, which were hidden in various compartments. The Cuscus was found in a woven basket, while the monkeys were concealed in a foam box with ventilation holes. Ms. Maina has been charged with several offences, including attempting to export protected wildlife without proper authorisation under Thailand’s Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act, illegally transporting animals out of the country under the Animal Epidemic Act, and attempting to export restricted goods without customs clearance under the Customs Act. This successful interception is part of a broader effort by the government to tackle wildlife trafficking, in line with directives from Dr. Chalermchai Sri-on, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment. The ministry has been cracking down on all forms of illegal wildlife trade, including illegal pet breeding, online commerce, cross-border trafficking, and smuggling. Authorities have followed the established legal procedures to detain the suspect, and further investigations are ongoing. This case highlights Thailand’s commitment to combating wildlife trafficking and enforcing strict wildlife protection laws. The wildlife will be returned to authorities, and legal proceedings against Ms. Maina are set to continue. -- 2025-03-07

Man Arrested for Blasting Car Stereo in Early Hours in Buriram Picture courtesy of CH7 A man has been arrested in Buriram after disturbing residents by blasting loud music from his car’s powerful sound system at 01:00. He later apologised, explaining that he was testing the system ahead of his sister’s wedding. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353815-man-arrested-for-blasting-car-stereo-in-early-hours in-buriram/

Picture courtesy of CH7 A man has been arrested in Buriram after disturbing residents by blasting loud music from his car’s powerful sound system at 01:00. He later apologised, explaining that he was testing the system ahead of his sister’s wedding. The incident came to light after frustrated locals posted a video on the Buriram News Centre Facebook page, complaining that a vehicle fitted with an extensive sound system had been driving through the streets at high volume in the middle of the night, preventing people from sleeping. Following the public outcry, Pol. Maj. Gen. Narongsak Promtha, Commander of Buriram Provincial Police, ordered an investigation. This led to the arrest of 36-year-old Anan, also known as “Eed”, a resident of Mueang Buriram district. He was found with a silver four-door pickup truck, registered in Bangkok, equipped with the powerful sound system. At the police station, Anan admitted to playing loud music but insisted he had no ill intentions. He explained that he had recently installed a new sound system and wanted to test it in silence to ensure it was properly calibrated before using it at his sister’s wedding. “I chose to test the system at night because it was quiet, allowing me to hear if anything was missing. I sincerely apologise to the residents for the disturbance, and I will not do it again,” he said. Police have charged him with using sound equipment without official permission and modifying his vehicle without approval. -- 2025-03-07

Massive Fire Engulfs Cold Storage Warehouse in Bang Phli A massive fire broke out on the afternoon of 6 March at a cold storage warehouse in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky and prompting urgent warnings over a suspected ammonia leak. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353814-massive-fire-engulfs-cold-storage-warehouse-in-bang-phli/

Pictures from responders. A massive fire broke out on the afternoon of 6 March at a cold storage warehouse in Bang Phli, Samut Prakan, sending thick plumes of smoke into the sky and prompting urgent warnings over a suspected ammonia leak. The incident occurred at Bangkok Cold Storage Service Co., Ltd., located on Bang Na-Trat Road in the Bang Chalong subdistrict. Firefighters and emergency responders rushed to the scene after receiving reports at approximately 15:50 that flames had engulfed the upper floors of the three-storey warehouse. Nearby residents were advised to remain indoors and avoid exposure to the fumes. Reports indicated that thick smoke was drifting towards Soi Prem, raising concerns over air quality and potential health risks. Efforts to contain the blaze have been complicated by the structure of the warehouse, which consists of cold storage units filled with frozen food products. Firefighters have struggled to access the interior due to the facility’s enclosed design, with collapsed storage racks further obstructing their efforts. More than 30 fire engines and nearly 200 personnel were deployed in an attempt to bring the situation under control. Specialist teams used drones equipped with thermal imaging to assess the intensity of the fire and guide operations. Water jets from aerial ladders, were deployed to douse the flames, while emergency crews worked to prevent the fire from spreading to neighbouring buildings. Thermal imaging from drone. Despite reports of an ammonia leak, a senior company official, identified as Khun Nok, insisted that no such gas was stored at the affected site. The executive claimed that other gases are used, which does not pose a respiratory hazard, were in use at the facility. However, conflicting reports from emergency teams suggested that ammonia was indeed present within the warehouse’s refrigeration systems. No casualties have been reported so far, and an official investigation into the cause of the fire will commence once the site is deemed safe. In the meantime, the company has assured affected residents that compensation will be provided for any damages caused by the smoke and fumes. As of midnight, the fire had been significantly reduced, but it remained unextinguished, with firefighters continuing efforts to bring the situation fully under control. Authorities have yet to confirm when their believe the blaze will be completely suppressed. -- 2025-03-07

Chaiyaphum Police Crack Down on Methamphetamine Gang, Seize Over 5 Million Baht in Assets Picture courtesy of Kaoded. Authorities in Chaiyaphum have successfully dismantled an international methamphetamine trafficking ring, seizing large quantities of drugs and firearms, and recovering over 5.4 million baht worth of assets. The operation, part of the ongoing “Phaya Lae City Defence” initiative, involved a coordinated raid across the province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353813-chaiyaphum-police-crack-down-on-methamphetamine-gang-seize-over-5-million-baht-in-assets/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. Authorities in Chaiyaphum have successfully dismantled an international methamphetamine trafficking ring, seizing large quantities of drugs and firearms, and recovering over 5.4 million baht worth of assets. The operation, part of the ongoing “Phaya Lae City Defence” initiative, involved a coordinated raid across the province. Police Chief Pol. Lt. Gen. Sujarit Panlek, alongside Deputy Chief Pol. Col. Pichit Mee Saeng, oversaw the operation, which targeted a known drug dealer, identified only as Mr. A, aged 28, from Ban Kaeng Subdistrict in Phu Khieo District. Authorities obtained a warrant from the Phu Khieo District Court and raided the premises in Ban Kaeng, discovering 3,781 methamphetamine pills, two handguns, three magazines, and 12 rounds of ammunition. Following the arrest, further investigations revealed a network of trafficking operations linked to neighbouring Laos. The suspect had been buying large quantities of meth from across the border, with prices recently slashed to just 15 baht per pill, cheaper than some snacks. The drugs were being sold locally at 33,000 baht per kilogram, allowing dealers to pocket significant profits. As part of the investigation, police also confiscated a range of assets, including 10 cars worth 4.15 million baht, three motorcycles valued at 800,000 baht, and 484,531 baht in bank deposits, bringing the total value of seized property to over 5.4 million baht. Authorities are now expanding their investigation to track down other members of the drug network. The suspect has been charged with trafficking methamphetamine and conspiring to commit serious drug-related offences. The operation marks a victory in the fight against the increasing methamphetamine trade in Thailand’s northern regions. The police have vowed to continue efforts to disrupt the flow of illegal drugs into the country, as investigations into the international trafficking ring continue. -- 2025-03-07

Gang Arrested for Illegal Padauk Wood Logging, Two Police Officers Among Those Involved Authorities from the Klong Wang Chao National Park in Tak province have successfully raided a gang involved in the illegal logging of “padauk wood,” apprehending five individuals, including two police officers. Investigations are underway to expand the case and ensure severe legal action is taken. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353811-gang-arrested-for-illegal-padauk-wood-logging-two-police-officers-among-those-involved/

Picture of arrest. Authorities from the Klong Wang Chao National Park in Tak province have successfully raided a gang involved in the illegal logging of “padauk wood,” apprehending five individuals, including two police officers. Investigations are underway to expand the case and ensure severe legal action is taken. Mr. Chaiya Danpho, Director of the 12th Conservation Area Management Bureau (Nakhon Sawan), revealed that Mr. Noppadol Praphong, Head of Klong Wang Chao National Park, reported the discovery of illegal wood processing in the Nakhiri Forest area, near Ban Pang Sangkasi, Moo 11, Chiang Thong Subdistrict, Wang Chao District, Tak. Authorities seized processed padauk wood and unprocessed padauk logs, totalling 1.14 cubic metres, as well as two vehicles used in the illegal activity and numerous tools involved in the crime. Five suspects were arrested, including two police officers, namely 58-year-old Police Officer Wichian and 54-year-old Police Officer Suthin, whose ranks remain unknown. The other suspects are 51-year-old Mr. Wichian, 50-year-old Mr. Thongchai, and 50-year-old Mr. Sombat. The authorities have taken the suspects and seized goods to the Klong Wang Chao National Park office for further investigation and have handed them over to local police at Wang Chao Police Station to face legal proceedings. Padauk wood is a valuable hardwood classified as a protected species under the Forest Act. The unauthorised felling or processing of such wood is illegal, and the high value of processed padauk wood in the black market has led to an ongoing issue of illegal logging. The price of processed padauk can reach tens of thousands of baht per cubic metre in the illicit market. Mr. Noppadol Praphong, Head of Klong Wang Chao National Park, stated that this operation aligns with the policy of Dr. Chalermchai Srion, the Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, who has emphasised the government’s commitment to cracking down on violations against forest resources. Investigations will continue to uncover all those involved, and no leniency will be shown, even for government officials. The authorities will also monitor illegal timber transportation routes closely. -- 2025-03-07

Gunfight Erupts in Bangkok’s Bang Bon Market After Domestic Dispute Between Sellers Picture courtesy of Matichon. A violent shooting took place in the heart of Bang Bon’s bustling market in the early afternoon, leaving a fish vendor injured after being shot multiple times. The shooting, which caused panic among shoppers, is believed to have been sparked by a domestic dispute between the wives of two market vendors, a pork seller and a fish seller. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353810-gunfight-erupts-in-bangkok’s-bang-bon-market-after-domestic-dispute-between-sellers/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A violent shooting took place in the heart of Bang Bon’s bustling market in the early afternoon, leaving a fish vendor injured after being shot multiple times. The shooting, which caused panic among shoppers, is believed to have been sparked by a domestic dispute between the wives of two market vendors, a pork seller and a fish seller. At approximately 14:55 on 5th March, police responded to reports of a shooting inside the Bang Bon-Ekkachai fresh market, located on Ekkachai Road in the Bang Bon district of Bangkok. Officers arrived at the scene to find 13 spent .32 calibre shell casings scattered across the floor, along with two live rounds. The victim, identified as 43-year-old fish vendor Mr. Worawut, was found with three gunshot wounds: one to his buttocks, one to his right thigh, and another to his right chest. According to witnesses, including a shopper named Mr. Chai, the altercation began when two women, believed to be the wives of the pork and fish vendors, began arguing. Mr. Chai observed the pork vendor standing by without intervening during the heated exchange. The pork seller then allegedly encouraged the fish vendor to come over to the scene. Once the fish vendor arrived, he was shot at by the pork seller, who then fled the scene. Mr. Worawut was assisted by bystanders and rushed to Mali Hospital for treatment. Police are continuing to investigate the incident and are working to locate the shooter, who is currently on the run. -- 2025-03-07

Japan Supports School Transport Project in Roi Et with 1.5 Million Baht Donation The Si Kaew Subdistrict Municipality in Mueang Roi Et has officially received a donation from the Japanese government to fund the purchase of school transport vehicles, under the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects. The total value of the donation is 1.5 million baht. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353808-japan-supports-school-transport-project-in-roi-et-with-15-million-baht-donation/

Picture courtesy of Khoded The Si Kaew Subdistrict Municipality in Mueang Roi Et has officially received a donation from the Japanese government to fund the purchase of school transport vehicles, under the Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects. The total value of the donation is 1.5 million baht. The handover ceremony took place on 5 March, at the municipality’s multipurpose field, where Mr. Tatsushi Nishioka, the Japanese Ambassador to Thailand, and representatives from the Japanese Embassy, along with expatriates living in Thailand, were present to officially deliver the vehicles. Dr. Keuichit Jureemas, Mayor of Si Kaew, along with local officials, village leaders, parents, and students from the Si Kaew Early Childhood Development Centre, received the donation and expressed their gratitude to the Japanese government. The new vehicles will provide safe transportation for young students, particularly benefiting elderly grandparents who are often responsible for taking children to and from school. The project, which has been monitored and evaluated by the Japanese Embassy since a site visit on 8 September 2024, culminated in the recent signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Thipwan Pongudomsuk, Deputy District Officer of Mueang Roi Et, welcomed the Japanese delegation and thanked the government of Japan for its continued support. She highlighted that the project not only aids educational development but also serves as a symbol of the strong friendship and cooperation between Thailand and Japan. This new school transport initiative is an important step in improving local infrastructure, ensuring that students in the Si Kaew Municipality have greater access to education and safer journeys to school. -- 2025-03-07

Cloud Seeding Operations Launched to Combat Chiang Mai Air Pollution The Northern Royal Rainmaking Operations Centre has deployed aircraft to conduct weather modification operations in an effort to alleviate severe air pollution in Chiang Mai province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1353807-cloud-seeding-operations-launched-to-combat-chiang-mai-air-pollution/

File picture for reference only. The Northern Royal Rainmaking Operations Centre has deployed aircraft to conduct weather modification operations in an effort to alleviate severe air pollution in Chiang Mai province. On the morning of 6 March, a special unit dedicated to reducing PM2.5 air pollution in Chiang Mai and Phrae launched aerial operations to mitigate the haze. The operation involved four aircraft, one CN-235, two CARAVAN planes, and one CASA aircraft, carrying a total of 3,000 litres of water and 1,400 kilograms of dry ice. These were deployed at an altitude of 9,100 feet over three districts in Chiang Mai: Hot, Mae Chaem, and Doi Tao. The mission used a spiral flight pattern within a five-nautical-mile radius, employing temperature-reducing water sprays and dry ice to break atmospheric inversion layers and disperse accumulated airborne particles. The Department of Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation has directed its northern and lower northern operation centres to continue weather modification efforts in Chiang Mai, Phrae, and Phitsanulok. Since 2 December 2024, nine aircraft have been assigned to support ongoing efforts to mitigate air pollution across northern Thailand. The operations employ multiple techniques, including atmospheric cooling through water spraying and dry ice dispersion, as well as cloud formation and enhancement to absorb and remove pollutants. Authorities have already carried out 534 cloud seeding flights as part of their commitment to reducing the harmful effects of air pollution on residents in northern Thailand. -- 2025-03-07

Jealous Husband Stabs Wife to Death in Bedroom as Eight-Year-Old Daughter Watches A man stabbed his wife to death in their bedroom in a jealous rage after she asked for a separation. The brutal attack took place in front of their eight-year-old daughter in Pa Mok district, Ang Thong province. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353806-jealous-husband-stabs-wife-to-death-in-bedroom-as-eight-year-old-daughter-watches/