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Picture courtesy of Matichon. Two Thai nationals, a man and a woman, have been arrested by Patong police after they were found to have been stealing from tourists while under the influence of drugs. The incident began on the evening of 14 March when a Russian tourist reported that her bag, containing several valuable pieces of jewellery, had gone missing from her hotel room on Patong’s Pang Muang Sai G Road. Following the complaint, the Patong Police, led by Police Colonel Chalermchai Hernsawat and Police Lieutenant Colonel Suchart Chumphusang, began investigating the case. After reviewing CCTV footage, officers tracked down the suspects and apprehended them on 15 March. The suspects were identified as a 24-year-old man and a 33-year-old woman, both Thai nationals. Upon questioning, the pair admitted to stealing valuables from the hotel room, including three rings, three pairs of silver earrings, three silver bracelets, three wristwatches, five gold necklaces, a hotel room key, and various clothing and personal items. Further investigation revealed that the male suspect had also been involved in another theft on 13 March, where he had stolen a mobile phone. He confessed to the crime when questioned. Upon searching their room, police found drug paraphernalia, and both suspects admitted to using and consuming methamphetamine. Drug tests conducted at Patong Hospital confirmed the presence of illicit substances in both individuals. As a result, they were charged with using illegal drugs and theft. The suspects were subsequently handed over to Patong’s prosecution office for legal proceedings. -- 2025-03-17

Seven-Year-Old Boy Drowns in Canal Amid Sweltering Heat Picture from responders. A seven-year-old boy has drowned in a canal near his home in Bang Rin, Mueang Ranong, after venturing out alone to cool off during the afternoon heat. His body was later discovered submerged in the water, despite warning signs prohibiting swimming in the area. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354827-seven-year-old-boy-drowns-in-canal-amid-sweltering-heat/

Picture from responders. A seven-year-old boy has drowned in a canal near his home in Bang Rin, Mueang Ranong, after venturing out alone to cool off during the afternoon heat. His body was later discovered submerged in the water, despite warning signs prohibiting swimming in the area. At 16:30 on 15 March, Police Lieutenant Puriphat Suksawat of Mueang Ranong Police Station received a report of a missing child. Family members had raised the alarm after the boy, identified as “Garfew”, disappeared from home without anyone noticing. Local police, investigators, and emergency rescue teams were immediately deployed to search for him. During the search, rescuers found the child’s clothes and a pair of cartoon-themed sandals neatly placed on the canal bank near Bang Rin Weir. Suspecting he had entered the water, divers quickly began searching the one-metre-deep section of the canal. Within ten minutes, they located his lifeless body submerged in the middle of the waterway. Emergency responders performed CPR, but he showed no signs of life. Medical staff at Ranong Hospital later confirmed that he had probably died approximately an hour before being found. As the child’s body was brought ashore, devastated relatives broke down in tears, struggling to comprehend the loss. His grandmother, who had raised him since birth, said she had not realised when he left the house. She believed he had gone outside to ride his bicycle, as he often did, and insisted that he had always been afraid of swimming in the canal. Despite multiple warning signs prohibiting swimming in the area and previous near-drowning incidents, the boy had ventured into the water alone. Following an investigation, police concluded there was no foul play, and his body was released to the family for funeral rites. Authorities have reiterated warnings for parents and guardians to remain vigilant, especially as rising temperatures increase the likelihood of children seeking out water to cool off. -- 2025-03-17

Body of Foreign Woman Found Floating in Sea Near Racha Island The badly decomposed body of an unidentified foreign woman has been discovered floating in the sea near Racha Island, off the coast of Phuket. Authorities are now working to determine her identity and the cause of death. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354825-body-of-foreign-woman-found-floating-in-sea-near-racha-island/

Picture from responders. The badly decomposed body of an unidentified foreign woman has been discovered floating in the sea near Racha Island, off the coast of Phuket. Authorities are now working to determine her identity and the cause of death. On the morning of March 16, lifeguards stationed at Racha Yai Island received reports from a fishing boat crew that they had spotted a body floating in open water between Racha Island and Hey Island. In response, the Andaman Pearl 3 patrol boat was dispatched to the reported location, where officers discovered the body at coordinates 39 degrees north and 22 degrees east. Upon inspection, the body was found floating face-down and in an advanced state of decomposition. Initial assessments suggest the deceased is a foreign woman, with identifiable tattoos on her leg. The remains were carefully retrieved from the sea and transported to Chalong Pier, where rescue foundation personnel took custody of the body. Authorities from Chalong Police Station have since transferred the remains to Vachira Phuket Hospital, where forensic specialists will conduct a thorough autopsy. Preliminary reports suggest it could be the American tourist who rented a jet ski in Patong and went missing at sea on February 27. DNA testing and additional forensic examinations will be carried out to confirm the woman’s identity and establish the circumstances surrounding her death The investigation remains ongoing as police work to uncover the details behind this incident. Related posts: https://aseannow.com/topic/1353108-american-tourist-missing-after-jet-ski-incident-at-patong-beach/ https://aseannow.com/topic/1353646-search-continues-for-missing-american-tourist-in-patong-bay/ -- 2025-03-17

Police Raid Illegal Gambling Den in Bangkok’s Suthisan District Picture courtesy of Matichon. A police operation in Bangkok’s Suthisan district resulted in the arrest of 19 individuals, including the alleged organiser of an illegal dice gambling (Hi-Lo) operation. The raid, led by officers from the Metropolitan Police Investigation Division, took place late on the night of March 15 following a tip-off. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354823-police-raid-illegal-gambling-den-in-bangkok’s-suthisan-district/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A police operation in Bangkok’s Suthisan district resulted in the arrest of 19 individuals, including the alleged organiser of an illegal dice gambling (Hi-Lo) operation. The raid, led by officers from the Metropolitan Police Investigation Division, took place late on the night of March 15 following a tip-off. Pol. Lt. Gen. Siam Boonsom, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, along with senior officers, oversaw the operation after intelligence suggested that an illegal gambling den was being run in an unregistered residence on Soi Hatsadisewee, Sutthisan Winitchai Road, Samsen Nok, Huai Khwang district. Upon arrival, officers discovered 19 individuals, 14 men and 5 women, engaged in a game of Hi-Lo, dice gambling game. The group included the alleged organiser, identified as Mr. Witchanon, who was reportedly acting as the banker. Police identified Witchanon as the primary suspect, charging him with “organising and facilitating illegal gambling for financial gain.” The remaining 18 individuals were charged with “participating in illegal gambling activities.” During the raid, officers seized multiple gambling-related items, including dice, betting boards, and cash. All suspects reportedly admitted to their involvement and were taken into custody at Suthisan Police Station for further legal proceedings. This raid is part of a broader effort by Thai authorities to combat illegal gambling operations, which are often linked to organised crime and financial fraud. The Metropolitan Police have urged the public to report any suspicious gambling activities to help maintain law and order. Authorities have stated that investigations are ongoing, and additional measures will be taken to prevent further illegal gambling operations in the area. -- 2025-03-17

Drug-Crazed Man Goes on Machete Rampage, Killing a Grandfather & Injuring a Child Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A shocking act of violence unfolded in Chaiyaphum province, as a 26-year-old man, reportedly under the influence of drugs, launched a brutal machete attack, leaving an elderly man dead and his 11-year-old grandson seriously injured. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354822-drug-crazed-man-goes-on-machete-rampage-killing-a-grandfather-injuring-a-child/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A shocking act of violence unfolded in Chaiyaphum province, as a 26-year-old man, reportedly under the influence of drugs, launched a brutal machete attack, leaving an elderly man dead and his 11-year-old grandson seriously injured. The attack took place in the early hours of 16 March, at Ban Nong Ben, Moo 6, in Nong Bua Daeng district. Police and emergency services rushed to the scene following reports of an assault. Officers found 67-year-old Mr Puk, dead from multiple machete wounds, while his grandson, Master Tawan, was rushed to Nong Bua Daeng Hospital with severe injuries. The suspect, identified as Mr Tawee, was a known troublemaker in the community, with a history of violent outbursts. Witnesses stated that he had frequently displayed aggressive behaviour and had attacked neighbours in the past. According to local residents, the suspect had arrived at the victims’ home in a drug-induced frenzy, allegedly looking for a friend. Finding only the young boy inside, he attacked him with a machete. Upon witnessing the assault, Mr Puk attempted to intervene but was also brutally attacked. The elderly man tried to escape on his motorised three-wheeler, but the assailant chased him down and continued the assault until he succumbed to his injuries. Neighbours attempted to intervene but were unable to stop the rampage. Following the attack, the suspect fled to Wat Tao Yai, a temple located approximately three kilometres from the crime scene, where he was found kneeling before a Buddha statue in an apparent attempt to seek forgiveness. Police apprehended him inside the temple, where he had placed the murder weapon on the ground and removed his shirt. A search of the suspect’s belongings uncovered 20 methamphetamine tablets. Officers reported that he was behaving erratically and speaking incoherently, suggesting he was still under the influence of drugs. Police are now awaiting his condition to stabilise before proceeding with further questioning. He will also be taken to the crime scene for a re-enactment as part of the investigation. Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour, particularly in cases involving drug abuse, which continues to be a pressing issue in many communities across Thailand. -- 2025-03-17

UPDATE Myanmar Worker Confirmed as 6th Death in Rama II Highway Construction Collapse A Myanmar woman searching for her missing relative, a construction worker involved in the elevated expressway project along Rama II Road, has received confirmation of his death. The incident, which occurred when a steel structure collapsed, has now claimed six lives. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354652-road-under-construction-collapses-on-rama-ii-road-multiple-workers-trapped/page/2/#findComment-19663237

UPDATE Myanmar Worker Confirmed as 6th Death in Rama II Highway Construction Collapse Picture from responders. A Myanmar woman searching for her missing relative, a construction worker involved in the elevated expressway project along Rama II Road, has received confirmation of his death. The incident, which occurred when a steel structure collapsed, has now claimed six lives. Ms. Phyu, a 37-year-old Myanmar national, visited the incident site, where the steel framework of the Expressway collapsed, hoping to locate her missing cousin, Mr. Tai Hui Yang, 22. She had searched hospitals and emergency lists without success before authorities confirmed that he was among the 27 injured workers. He had been transferred to Taksin Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries on the morning of 16 March, becoming the sixth fatality of the disaster. Meanwhile, the family of a deceased engineer also visited the site to perform a ritual for his spirit before claiming his body later in the day. The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) has reported that over 40% of the wreckage has been cleared. Authorities aim to reopen the affected section of the road within seven days. Investigations into the cause of the collapse continue. -- 2025-03-17

Iranian Man Arrested for Shoplifting in Patong Supermarket Picture courtesy of Phuket Express. A 52-year-old Iranian man has been arrested after allegedly stealing tea and coffee from a supermarket in Patong, police have confirmed. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354769-iranian-man-arrested-for-shoplifting-in-patong-supermarket/

Picture courtesy of Phuket Express. A 52-year-old Iranian man has been arrested after allegedly stealing tea and coffee from a supermarket in Patong, police have confirmed. The incident occurred at a supermarket on Phra Baramee Road, where a security guard noticed the suspect attempting to leave the premises without paying for the items. Upon being apprehended, the man was found to be in possession of a bag of tea and a jar of instant coffee, which had been concealed in a reusable plastic bag. Patong Police were alerted to the theft and swiftly arrived at the scene, where they took the suspect into custody. He was subsequently transported to Patong Police Station, where he now faces charges of theft. Authorities have not released further details regarding the man’s name or visa status and the suspect did not yet provided any statement regarding the incident. Local police have reiterated their commitment to tackling theft and ensuring the security of businesses in Patong. Shoppers and business owners are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement. The case remains under investigation. -- 2025-03-16

South Korean Tourist Found Dead in Phuket in Spa’s Sauna Picture courtesy of Khoasod A 64-year-old South Korean tourist was found dead inside a sauna at a spa in Phuket, with initial reports suggesting heat-related distress. Authorities are investigating the exact cause of death. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354767-south-korean-tourist-found-dead-in-phuket-spa-sauna/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod A 64-year-old South Korean tourist was found dead inside a sauna at a spa in Phuket, with initial reports suggesting heat-related distress. Authorities are investigating the exact cause of death. At approximately 18:30 on 15 March, Pol. Lt. Yutthaphon Promdao, an investigative officer at Wichit Police Station, received a report of a foreign tourist’s death at a spa in Mueang Phuket District. Senior officers, forensic experts from Vachira Phuket Hospital, and rescue personnel from Kusoldharm Foundation were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, officials discovered the body of Mr. Park, who had been using the sauna. He was found lying on the floor outside the sauna room, after being pulled out, with visible red rashes on his back and neck. His wife, who had accompanied him to the spa along with his two elder sisters, told authorities that they had opted for traditional Thai massages while Mr. Park chose to use the sauna. Later, they found him unconscious inside the sauna room and immediately sought help from the spa staff, who attempted CPR, while contacting emergency services. Mr. Park’s body was transported to Vachira Phuket Hospital, where a forensic examination will determine the official cause of death. Police have launched an investigation and are awaiting further medical findings. -- 2025-03-16

Jealous Ex Attacks Korean Man with Machete in Pattaya Condo A jealous ex-girlfriend launched a brutal attack on her former partner with a machete after finding him in a condo with another woman in Pattaya. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354746-jealous-ex-attacks-korean-man-with-machete-in-pattaya-condo/

Picture from responders. A jealous ex-girlfriend launched a brutal attack on her former partner with a machete after finding him in a condo with another woman in Pattaya. Emergency rescue teams from Sawang Boriboon Thammasathan Foundation and Pattaya police rushed to a condominium on Thappraya Road in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung district, Chonburi, following reports of an assault at approximately 06:05 on 15 March. Upon arrival at the 16th-floor apartment, they found Choi Yonghun, a 45-year-old South Korean national, with a deep gash to his head. Blood was reportedly splattered across the room. Rescue workers provided first aid before urgently transporting him to hospital for further treatment. The attacker, identified as 23-year-old Jasmine, was still inside the apartment when authorities arrived and made no attempt to flee. According to 24-year-old Manatsanan, the woman who was in the room with the victim, she heard the door being unlocked and saw Jasmine enter. A heated argument erupted between the ex-girlfriend and Choi at the doorway. Fearing for her safety, Manatsanan attempted to hide. As the confrontation escalated, Jasmine allegedly grabbed a machete and swung it at Manatsanan, but Choi intervened and was struck in the head instead. Terrified, Manatsanan fled into the bathroom and contacted the authorities. Initial investigations suggest that jealousy was the motive behind the violent outburst, with Jasmine losing control after discovering her ex-boyfriend with another woman. Police have collected evidence from the scene and will summon all parties for questioning as legal proceedings continue. -- 2025-03-16

Former Bangkok Deputy Governor Urges Minister to Scrap Contractor After Another Collapse Following yet another overpass collapse on Rama II Road, Samart Ratchapolsitte, a former Deputy Governor of Bangkok, has called on the Minister of Transport to scrap the existing contractor and take firm action to prevent further incidents. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354745-former-bangkok-deputy-governor-urges-minister-to-scrap-contractor-after-another-collapse/

Picture from responders. Following yet another overpass collapse on Rama II Road, Samart Ratchapolsitte, a former Deputy Governor of Bangkok, has called on the Minister of Transport to scrap the existing contractor and take firm action to prevent further incidents. Rama II Road has long been plagued by construction accidents, with repeated structural failures raising concerns over contractor accountability and safety standards. The latest incident has once again put pressure on authorities to re-evaluate their approach to infrastructure projects. Samart, a seasoned urban planner and former Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) executive, criticised the Transport Ministry’s reliance on the same contractors despite their track record of failures. He suggested that officials should “tear up their report cards” and rethink the selection process for major construction projects. “The repeated collapses along Rama II Road show a clear failure in oversight,” he said. “If the same contractors keep causing problems, why are they still being hired? The Transport Ministry must prioritise public safety over convenience and hold those responsible accountable.” Rama II Road, a major arterial route linking Bangkok to the south, has seen multiple collapses and safety incidents in recent years, often leading to traffic chaos and public outcry. This latest incident has intensified scrutiny on both contractors and government agencies responsible for overseeing construction projects. Transport officials have yet to issue a formal response, but public frustration continues to mount, with many calling for an independent review of infrastructure projects to prevent further tragedies. Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1354652-road-under-construction-collapses-on-rama-ii-road-multiple-workers-trapped/ -- 2025-03-16

Bystander Chases & Stops Malaysian Tourists After Hit-and-Run in Pattaya Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A vigilant citizen in Pattaya helped apprehend two Malaysian tourists who attempted to flee the scene after colliding with a motorcyclist in the early hours of 15 March. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354741-bystander-chases-stops-malaysian-tourists-after-hit-and-run-in-pattaya/#elControls_19661237_menu

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A vigilant citizen in Pattaya helped apprehend two Malaysian tourists who attempted to flee the scene after colliding with a motorcyclist in the early hours of 15 March. The incident occurred at approximately 03:30 on Sukhumvit Road in Pattaya, near the Highway Police checkpoint, on the Sattahip bound carriageway. Emergency responders from the Sawang Boriboon Rescue Centre arrived at the scene to provide first aid to the injured motorcyclist, 24-year-old Narin Yusamran, before rushing him to hospital. Meanwhile, a bystander, Piyapong Nhaikon (40), witnessed the crash and pursued the fleeing vehicle, before successfully intercepting it at a red light at the Chaiyapruek intersection. Police arrived to inspect the vehicle, a white Toyota Camry with Bangkok licence plates, which had clear damage to its front bumper with a motorcycle part still attached. The two Malaysian suspects, identified as Suthan (33) and Poovendren (36), were arrested and taken for alcohol testing. Officers also found beer bottles inside the car, which were seized as evidence at Pattaya City Police Station. A 24-year-old transgender woman named Pimlada, who had been a passenger in the Camry, later came forward to assist police. She explained that she and a friend had been hired to serve drinks at the Malaysian tourists’ pool villa. While in the car, they became terrified as the men drank beer and drove recklessly. Despite their pleas to stop, the men continued driving dangerously until they hit the motorcycle and attempted to escape. When the car stopped at a red light, Pimlada and her friend seized the opportunity to escape and immediately called for help. Pimlada also provided crucial video footage recorded inside the car, showing the two suspects drinking beer while driving and the moment of the crash. This evidence will be used in the case at Pattaya City Police Station. Authorities have yet to announce formal charges against the suspects, as the investigation continues. -- 2025-03-16

Police Officer and Wife Killed in Songkhla Car Crash A road crash in Songkhla has claimed the lives of a police officer and his wife, while their two children sustained injuries. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354739-police-officer-and-wife-killed-in-songkhla-car-crash/

Picture from responders. A road crash in Songkhla has claimed the lives of a police officer and his wife, while their two children sustained injuries. The incident occurred at 14:10 on 15 March when rescue services in Songkhla were alerted to a serious crash near the U-turn bridge in Ban Nam Krajai, on Lopburi Ramesuan Road in Phawong subdistrict, Mueang Songkhla district. Emergency responders, including paramedics from Songkhla Hospital and multiple rescue teams, rushed to the scene along with Pol. Lt. Col. Thapanan Akkarakantrakorn from Songkhla City Police Station. At the crash site, authorities discovered an Isuzu four-door pickup truck, registered in Betong, which had collided with a concrete pillar beneath the bridge. The front of the vehicle was severely damaged. Inside the wreckage, four people were found, Pol. Sgt. Maj. Ibrahim Darohing, 50, an officer from Betong Police Station, his wife, and their two children, a boy and a girl. Pol. Sgt. Maj. Ibrahim had been driving, with his wife in the passenger seat and their children in the back. Emergency teams worked desperately to resuscitate both Pol. Sgt. Maj. Ibrahim and his wife, who were unresponsive and critically injured. Their two children sustained minor injuries and were quickly transported to Songkhla Hospital. Despite the doctors’ best efforts, the police officer and his wife succumbed to their injuries. Initial investigations revealed that the family had been travelling from Betong to Hat Yai to collect their children before continuing to Songkhla. Authorities are continuing to investigate the cause of the accident. -- 2025-03-16

Illegal Gambling Den Raided in Rayong – 50 Arrested, but Local Politician Escapes Scrutiny Picture courtesy of Matichon. Authorities in Rayong launched a major crackdown on illegal gambling in Klaeng district, arresting over 50 gamblers at a snooker club that had been operating as a front for an underground betting den. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1354737-illegal-gambling-den-raided-in-rayong-–-50-arrested-but-local-politician-escapes-scrutiny/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Authorities in Rayong launched a major crackdown on illegal gambling in Klaeng district, arresting over 50 gamblers at a snooker club that had been operating as a front for an underground betting den. The provincial governor has ordered strict legal action, refusing bail for all those detained. However, controversy erupted as reports surfaced that a local politician had been present during the raid but was not among those taken into custody. At approximately 16:00 on 15 March, Rayong Governor Traiphop Wongtrailak directed a special task force, including provincial administrative officers, local defence volunteers, and district officials from Muang Rayong, Ban Khai, and Ban Chang, to raid the premises in Tambon Thang Kwian, Klaeng District. The snooker hall had allegedly been hosting illegal gambling activities, including dice games and boxing bets, for over a year. As authorities stormed the venue, chaos ensued, with gamblers attempting to flee in all directions. Officers managed to detain approximately 50 individuals and confiscated gambling-related materials. The detainees were swiftly transported to Klaeng Police Station in two six-wheeled trucks and a pickup truck for processing. Shortly after, Klaeng District Chief Kantaphon Suksong arrived at the police station to oversee legal proceedings. All suspects remain in custody as investigations continue. However, the operation has been overshadowed by allegations from one of the arrested gamblers, who claimed that a local politician and community leader had been present at the scene but was not among those detained. It remains unclear how they evaded arrest. Authorities are currently filing charges against the 50 arrested individuals for illegal gambling and are conducting further investigations to identify the ringleader behind the illicit operation. Governor Traiphop has issued a strict directive against granting bail to any of the detainees, emphasising that legal action will be enforced without exception. -- 2025-03-16