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Foreign Gangs Clash in Central Bangkok: Several Injured in Machete Attack Picture courtesy of Khoasod. Police in Bangkok have arrested three men following a violent altercation between rival foreign gangs that left several people injured. The suspects, including one Tai Yai national and two Myanmar nationals, were allegedly involved in a machete attack in Din Daeng district earlier this month. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359967-foreign-gangs-clash-in-central-bangkok-several-injured-in-machete-attack/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. Police in Bangkok have arrested three men following a violent altercation between rival foreign gangs that left several people injured. The suspects, including one Tai Yai national and two Myanmar nationals, were allegedly involved in a machete attack in Din Daeng district earlier this month. Pol Lt Gen Siam Boonsom, Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police Bureau, along with senior officers Pol Maj Gen Noppasin Poolsawat and Pol Maj Gen Attaporn Wongsiripreeda, ordered the arrests. Investigators from Din Daeng Police Station, led by Pol Col Phasit Kateuang-ngan, apprehended the three suspects under criminal court warrants issued on 3 May 2025. The suspects have been identified as Mr. Jakkrapat 18, of Tai Yai descent, Mr. Saw Win, 21, and Mr. Saw Han, 19, both Myanmar nationals. They have been charged with “jointly causing bodily harm resulting in serious injury.” Police seized four long machetes, each approximately one foot in length, and a motorcycle believed to have been used in the attack. The violence occurred on 1 May in front of a grilled pork restaurant in Soi Prachasongkroh 29, Din Daeng. According to witnesses, a group of ten youths attacked several Myanmar nationals with machetes, seriously injuring multiple victims. Following the incident, Din Daeng police launched an investigation and identified the group responsible. Three suspects have now been arrested, with warrants issued for others believed to be involved. One of the accused reportedly claimed the attack was a case of mistaken identity, believing the victims were individuals who had previously confronted him during the Songkran festival. Police are now expanding their investigation to other areas of Bangkok, particularly Huai Khwang and Sutthisan, where tensions have been reported between groups of Myanmar and Tai Yai nationals. These rival gangs, often gathering at local festivals, have clashed on several occasions. Authorities have pledged to continue pursuing all suspects involved and bring them to justice under the law. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-07.

Laos Bans Thai Cattle Imports Indefinitely, Sparking Crisis for Farmers and Traders Picture courtesy of Kaoded. Livestock farmers and cattle traders across the northeastern region are facing serious hardship following an urgent directive by the Lao government banning the import and movement of cattle, buffaloes, goats, and sheep from Thailand. The ban, issued with immediate effect and without a stated end date, is aimed at preventing the spread of anthrax following a confirmed case in Mukdahan province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359966-laos-bans-thai-cattle-imports-indefinitely-sparking-crisis-for-farmers-and-traders/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. Livestock farmers and cattle traders across the northeastern region are facing serious hardship following an urgent directive by the Lao government banning the import and movement of cattle, buffaloes, goats, and sheep from Thailand. The ban, issued with immediate effect and without a stated end date, is aimed at preventing the spread of anthrax following a confirmed case in Mukdahan province. The order was prompted by the discovery of anthrax in the carcass of a slaughtered cow in Don Tan District, Mukdahan. The incident has already resulted in one fatality and two hospitalisations, with as many as 623 individuals identified as being at high risk of exposure. Mr. Raten Thueannoi, a local cattle and buffalo farm operator, revealed that Laotian authorities had granted a one-day exemption to allow final exports on 6 May. He warned that more than 100 animals at his facility risk being stranded if exports cannot proceed in time, creating a costly burden in terms of daily care and feed, averaging over 100 baht per animal per day, amid ongoing shortages of grass and straw. “The situation is devastating not only for commercial operations but also for small-scale farmers,” Mr. Raten said. “Many had planned to sell livestock to cover school term expenses, but now they cannot, and prices have plummeted as well.” Compounding the crisis is a separate issue involving the freezing of bank accounts belonging to several livestock operators since 18 April. Authorities cited an investigation into suspected cybercriminal financial activities. However, Mr. Raten questioned the prolonged delay, stating, “What sort of investigation takes over 17 days with no progress, especially when these are legitimate business funds?” In response to the crisis, private sector groups and livestock farmers are calling on the Thai government to urgently implement concrete measures, including financial relief, diplomatic engagement with Laos, and the revitalisation of the livestock market, to prevent further damage to the grassroots economy. Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359368-anthrax-death-reported-in-mukdahan-province/ Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-05-07.

Golf Pro Demands Probe into Foreign Workers Replacing Thais at a Kanchanaburi Golf Course File picture for reference only. A professional Thai golfer has filed a formal complaint alleging that a well-known golf course in Kanchanaburi has been allowing a Myanmar national investor to employ foreign workers as caddies and masseuses—roles reserved by Thai law exclusively for Thai citizens. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359965-golf-pro-demands-probe-into-foreign-workers-replacing-thais-at-a-kanchanaburi-golf-course/

File picture for reference only. A professional Thai golfer has filed a formal complaint alleging that a well-known golf course in Kanchanaburi has been allowing a Myanmar national investor to employ foreign workers as caddies and masseuses—roles reserved by Thai law exclusively for Thai citizens. The golf course, located in Mueang District, Kanchanaburi Province, was reportedly leased to the Myanmar businessman around two to three years ago. At that time, the facility was employing between 100 and 150 Thai caddies. Since the lease began, however, the operator has allegedly replaced most Thai workers with Myanmar nationals, employing them as both caddies and massage therapists. According to the complainant, all of the new foreign staff have been instructed to learn Korean, as the course primarily caters to South Korean golfers. This shift in workforce policy has reportedly eliminated the traditional queue system used for assigning caddies, which previously ensured fairness and work opportunities for local Thai caddies. As a result, the remaining Thai caddies are now being left without work, while Myanmar staff, employed on a salaried basis, are allegedly allowed to serve multiple Korean clients in succession without regard for the original rotation system. Golfers can no longer request specific Thai caddies, further marginalising local workers. The situation has sparked outrage among Thai employees, who argue that both the caddie and massage roles are classified as protected occupations under Thai labour law, meaning foreign nationals are legally prohibited from performing them. Many of the affected Thai caddies are long-time employees of the golf course and now find themselves jobless and struggling to make ends meet. With little knowledge of legal channels for redress, they have turned to the media in hopes of drawing government attention to the issue. They are urging relevant authorities to investigate whether the employment of Myanmar nationals in these positions is in violation of Thai labour regulations and to ensure fairness and job protection for Thai workers moving forward. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-07.

Man Dies After Falling from Pickup Truck Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 24-year-old man has died after falling from the back of a pickup truck in Roi Et province, in what authorities are calling a preventable tragedy. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359964-man-dies-after-falling-from-pickup-truck/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 24-year-old man has died after falling from the back of a pickup truck in Roi Et province, in what authorities are calling a preventable tragedy. The incident occurred on the Phon Thong–Roi Et Road near the entrance to Roi Et Airport in Thawat Buri district. Emergency responders from Asok Thawat Buri Rescue Unit were called to the scene, where they found the man dead at the roadside. According to police from Thawat Buri Police Station, the man, a local resident, had suffered a broken neck and multiple abrasions. Blood was found coming from his nose and mouth. A black wardrobe, which had been loaded onto the vehicle, was also discovered lying nearby. The driver of the vehicle told police that he had picked up the victim from his home to help clean a newly built house in preparation for a housewarming ceremony the next day. A wardrobe was loaded into the back of the pickup, and the driver asked the victim to sit in the front passenger seat. However, the victim insisted on sitting on the wardrobe in the rear of the vehicle. The tailgate had not been closed and the wardrobe had not been secured. As the vehicle travelled along the road, the wardrobe slid off the truck bed, taking the victim with it. He struck the ground violently, resulting in his instant death. The case serves as a stark warning about the dangers of riding in unsecured areas of vehicles and the importance of properly securing all cargo. Police are continuing their investigation and will assess whether any legal action is necessary. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-07.

Man Arrested After Attack on 80-Year-Old Woman in Her Home Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A 46-year-old man has been arrested in Phayao province after attacking an 80-year-old woman in a failed attempt to rob her. The incident occurred in Moo 7, Lo Subdistrict, Chun District, where the victim, Mrs. Sanan, was assaulted in her own home. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359962-man-arrested-after-attack-on-80-year-old-woman-in-her-home/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A 46-year-old man has been arrested in Phayao province after attacking an 80-year-old woman in a failed attempt to rob her. The incident occurred in Moo 7, Lo Subdistrict, Chun District, where the victim, Mrs. Sanan, was assaulted in her own home. Police from Chun Police Station, led by Pol. Lt. Supap Khlongkap, responded to the report of an elderly woman being assaulted and robbed. Upon arrival, they found Mrs. Sanan injured after being attacked by a man who covered her head with a sack before beating her and attempting to steal her belongings. Investigators quickly identified the suspect as Mr. Sriamporn, a fellow resident of the same village. He was apprehended while in the act of using illegal drugs. During interrogation, Mr. Sriamporn admitted to sneaking into the victim’s house and placing a fertiliser sack over her head while she was sitting at the back of her home. He pulled her arm violently to prevent her from seeing his face and then searched for valuables. Failing to find any money, he fled the scene. Police have charged Mr. Sriamporn with four serious offences: drug use, attempted robbery, unlawful entry into a dwelling, and unlawful detention. He is currently in custody pending further legal proceedings. This disturbing attack has raised concerns among local residents about safety and drug-related crime in the area. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-07.

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Man Armed with Military-Grade Weapon Opens Fire at Petrol Station in Mae Sot Pictures courtesy of Khoasod. Panic erupted in the early hours of morning of 6 May, when a man wielding a military-style firearm opened fire at a petrol station in front of the Mae Sot Municipality Office in Tak Province, northern Thailand. The incident, which began around 02:00 saw people fleeing in terror as the gunman fired randomly into the street and at police officers responding to the scene. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359880-man-armed-with-military-grade-weapon-opens-fire-at-petrol-station-in-mae-sot/

Pictures courtesy of Khoasod. Panic erupted in the early hours of morning of 6 May, when a man wielding a military-style firearm opened fire at a petrol station in front of the Mae Sot Municipality Office in Tak Province, northern Thailand. The incident, which began around 02:00 saw people fleeing in terror as the gunman fired randomly into the street and at police officers responding to the scene. The suspect, identified as Mr. Anuphong aged 42, is believed to be a relative of the owner of the petrol station where the shooting occurred. Eyewitnesses reported that he had been discharging his weapon intermittently for several hours. Mae Sot Police were forced to close the road at the intersection in front of the municipality building and evacuate several petrol station employees who were trapped inside. The area was declared unsafe and locked down, with authorities urging the public to avoid the vicinity. At approximately 08:00, the situation escalated when the gunman again opened fire on police officers. Officers returned fire, wounding the suspect. He was quickly apprehended and transported to hospital for treatment and the man remains in custody under police guard. Video of the suspect being detained after being shot. A large police and military presence remains in the area as investigators continue to examine the motive behind the attack. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-06.

Chinese Man Crashes into Motorbike and House in Pattaya At approximately 01:00 on the 6 May, emergency services were alerted to a road crash near the Chinese Cemetery on Soi Siam Country Club in Pattaya. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359868-chinese-man-crashes-into-motorbike-and-house-in-pattaya/

Picture from responders. At approximately 01:00 on the 6 May, emergency services were alerted to a road crash near the Chinese Cemetery on Soi Siam Country Club in Pattaya. Upon arriving at the scene, rescue teams discovered a black car had collided with a motorcycle before veering out of control and crashing into a nearby residential property. The force of the impact caused damage to both the house and the vehicles involved. The driver of the car was identified as a Chinese national, name not disclosed. According to eyewitnesses, the vehicle was travelling at high speed when it struck the motorcycle. The driver then lost control and slammed into the house. A male motorcyclist sustained severe injuries in the crash, including head trauma and a serious wound to his left leg. Rescue personnel from a local foundation provided emergency first aid at the scene before rushing him to Banglamung Hospital for further treatment. His condition was described by responders as critical. Authorities are investigating the incident and will determine what charges will be filed against the car driver. Police have yet to confirm whether alcohol or other substances were involved. Adapted by Asean Now 2025-05-06.

Birthday Celebration Ends in Fatal Crash: Parents and 11-Year-Old Son Killed in KanchanaburI Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A birthday dinner ended in disaster when a family of five was involved in a fatal road crash in Tha Muang District, Kanchanaburi Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359863-birthday-celebration-ends-in-fatal-crash-parents-and-11-year-old-son-killed-in-kanchanaburi/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. A birthday dinner ended in disaster when a family of five was involved in a fatal road crash in Tha Muang District, Kanchanaburi Province. At approximately 21:30 on 5 May, emergency services were called to the scene on U-Thong Road, opposite the entrance to Nong Ya Dok Khao Sub-district Municipality. A white Isuzu D-Max pickup truck driver, had reportedly lost control and crashed into a roadside electricity pole after a suspected tyre blowout. Police and medical responders found the vehicle severely damaged, with all five occupants trapped inside. Rescue personnel used hydraulic cutting tools to extract the victims. The driver, Mr Natthawut Phansomboon, 29, was pronounced dead at the scene, as were his wife, Ms Suphansa Odthon, and their eldest son, Mark, aged 11. The couple’s two younger children, a nine-year-old boy named Mac and one-year-old daughter Haru, suffered serious injuries. Both were rushed to Phahon Phonpayuhasena Hospital in a critical condition. Rescue teams attempted CPR on the 11-year-old boy at the scene for over 15 minutes but were unable to revive him. Witnesses living nearby reported hearing a loud bang consistent with a tyre blowout moments before the truck spun out of control and struck the utility pole. The rear right tyre was found to have exploded, likely causing the vehicle to veer off the road and crash violently. Family members of Mr Natthawut arrived at the scene in tears after learning of the crash. They confirmed that the family had just been returning home from a birthday meal celebrating Mr Natthawut’s 29th birthday in central Kanchanaburi. Police from Nong Khao Station have launched an investigation into the incident, though early reports suggest the crash was caused by the sudden tyre failure. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-06.

Samut Prakan: Man Drowns Trying to Help Uncle Remove Water Hyacinth A 33-year-old man drowned in the Suvarnabhumi irrigation canal in Bang Phli district while attempting to swim across to help his uncle remove water hyacinth tangled in a fishing net. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359860-samut-prakan-man-drowns-trying-to-help-uncle-remove-water-hyacinth/

Picture from responders. A 33-year-old man drowned in the Suvarnabhumi irrigation canal in Bang Phli district while attempting to swim across to help his uncle remove water hyacinth tangled in a fishing net. At around 18:00 on 4 May, Phra Nakhon radio centre received a report of a missing person believed to have drowned in the Suvarnabhumi Water Delivery Canal, near the entrance to Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Samut Prakan campus, in Bang Pla subdistrict. Police officers from Bang Phli Police Station, divers, and volunteers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation were dispatched to the scene. The canal, part of the Chonharaphichit irrigation project, is approximately 80 metres wide and 5 metres deep. Five divers from the foundation entered the water and, after about 30 minutes of searching, recovered the body to the grief of the victim’s family, particularly his mother. According to Ms. Mayuree, the victim’s aunt, the family had travelled from Chachoengsao province to fish for food during the public holiday. She explained that the group had initially stayed on one side of the canal but moved to the opposite bank later in the afternoon. As her husband began setting a net, Mr. Thawatchai, the victim, attempted to swim across to help remove water hyacinth tangled in the equipment. Sadly, he grew exhausted midway and disappeared beneath the water. She affirmed that no alcohol or intoxicants were involved. Ms. Pathat, the victim’s 59-year-old mother, tearfully recounted how she, her son, and other relatives had come to fish together. When her son saw his uncle struggling with tangled weeds on the far bank, he tried to help but lost his strength and drowned in full view of the family. The police have recorded the incident and invited the family to provide additional testimony at Bang Phli Police Station. The body has been sent to Ramathibodi Chakri Naruebodindra Medical Institute for autopsy. Adapted by Asean Now from NBT 2025-05-06.

Police Officer Killed by Falling Tree in Nan Province Picture courtesy of NBT. A police officer has died after a tree he was cutting down fell and crushed him in his own plantation in Nan province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359858-police-officer-killed-by-falling-tree-in-nan-province/

Picture courtesy of NBT. A police officer has died after a tree he was cutting down fell and crushed him in his own plantation in Nan province Police Lieutenant Tinakorn Chaiyrian of Santi Suk Police Station received a report from the Nan 191 emergency radio centre of a fatal incident, involving a fallen tree in a forest plantation near Ban Pong Kham, in Du Phong subdistrict, Santi Suk district. He immediately informed Police Colonel Somchai Kawinet, Superintendent of Santi Suk Police Station, and rushed to the scene with a medical examiner from Santi Suk Hospital, rescue workers from Du Phong Subdistrict Administrative Organisation, and an investigation team. The location, situated on a hill behind Ban Pong Kham village, was where the body of Police Sub-Lieutenant Thanapong Muangja, 57, was discovered. He was the Deputy Inspector of the Santi Suk Police Station’s Crime Prevention Division. He was found dressed in camouflage clothing lying pinned beneath a tree. Officials believe he had been dead for more than three hours before being found. Relatives told police that the victim had gone out to work in his plantation as usual. When he failed to return home, the family grew concerned and set out to search for him, eventually discovering his lifeless body beneath the tree. Initial investigations suggest no foul play, and the family has not raised any suspicions regarding the cause of death. The body has been sent to Santi Suk Hospital for further examination. Authorities have created a detailed map and photographic record of the scene as part of the formal investigation process. Police have expressed condolences to the family and praised the late officer for his long-standing service and dedication to the community. Adapted by Asean Now from NBT 2025-05-06.

Two Myanmar Nationals Arrested for Illegal Giant Clam Harvesting off Koh Phangan Picture courtesy of Matichon. Two Myanmar men have been arrested for illegally harvesting endangered giant clams in the waters off Koh Phangan, as authorities seized a significant number of the protected marine species. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359857-two-myanmar-nationals-arrested-for-illegal-giant-clam-harvesting-off-koh-phangan/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Two Myanmar men have been arrested for illegally harvesting endangered giant clams in the waters off Koh Phangan, as authorities seized a significant number of the protected marine species. Mr. Waiyawut Santivichaya, head of the Koh Tao Marine Fisheries Protection Unit under the Songkhla Marine Fisheries Suppression Centre, dispatched a team led by fisheries officer Mr. Chaowalit Iadmee. The operation, conducted in coordination with local fisheries officials and community leaders, targeted individuals suspected of engaging in illegal fishing activities in the Chaloklum Bay area of Koh Tao Subdistrict. The officers apprehended two male foreign nationals of Myanmar origin, who had been diving to collect Tridacna gigas, commonly known as giant clams, a protected and visually striking marine species. A total of 24 clams were confiscated as evidence. Both suspects face charges under the Fisheries Act B.E. 2558 (2015) and its amendment in B.E. 2560 (2017), specifically violating Section 66, with penalties prescribed under Section 145. The men were handed over to Koh Phangan Police Station for further legal proceedings, recorded as Criminal Case No. 197/2568 and Seized Items Log No. 75/2568. Koh Tao subdistrict chief, Mr. Kobchai Saowaluk, commented that enforcement efforts against illegal clam harvesting have long been in place. He noted that in earlier years, offenders were typically fined between 20,000–30,000 baht per clam, but current penalties have risen sharply to around 40,000 baht per clam, reflecting the growing urgency to protect these species. Giant clams are renowned for their vivid colours and patterned flesh, which can include vibrant blues and tiger-striped textures, traits that make them a target for poaching despite their protected status. The arrests have sparked widespread public reaction on Koh Phangan, particularly on local social media pages. Comments ranged from concerns about environmental destruction to calls for stricter penalties, blacklisting from re-entry into Thailand and immediate deportation of offenders. One popular comment read: “Koh Phangan will be barren if these Burmese keep harvesting giant clams. They must face harsher punishment, blacklist them permanently.” Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting endangered marine life and upholding the law in collaboration with local communities. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-06.

Pickup Truck Driver Dozes Off, Crashes Across Lane into Two Motorcycles Picture from responders. A road crash occurred in Bo Win subdistrict of Si Racha district, Chonburi province on the afternoon on 5 May, a pickup truck veered across the central line and ploughed into two motorcycles, injuring four people. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359856-pickup-truck-driver-dozes-off-crashes-across-lane-into-two-motorcycles/

Picture from responders. A road crash occurred in Bo Win subdistrict of Si Racha district, Chonburi province on the afternoon on 5 May, a pickup truck veered across the central line and ploughed into two motorcycles, injuring four people. The collision took place at approximately 12:20 on Sukhaphiban 8 Road, near Soi Chueam Maitri. Police Lieutenant Sarawut Sinsai, the duty officer at Bo Win Police Station, responded to the emergency call and arrived at the scene accompanied by rescue personnel from the Phyoyingtai Sriracha Foundation. The a two-way road was strewn with debris near a row of local shops. A grey Toyota pickup truck registered in Rayong province was found with front-end damage, having slammed into two motorcycles. One of the bikes, a blue Honda Wave 125 with Chonburi plates, was crushed, while the second, a white Honda also registered in Chonburi, was found lodged underneath the truck with parts scattered across the road. Four individuals, three men and one woman, were injured in the crash. Emergency responders provided first aid before transferring the victims to Laem Chabang Hospital. The pickup driver sustained minor injuries and was taken into custody for questioning. Initial investigations revealed that the driver admitted to falling asleep at the wheel, having not slept the previous night. This caused him to lose control of the vehicle and cross into the opposite lane, resulting in the high-impact collision. Police are continuing their inquiries, including taking further statements from the injured parties and eyewitnesses. Legal proceedings against the pickup driver are underway, as authorities work to establish a full account of the incident. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-06.