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Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Multiple explosions and bursts of gunfire were reported on the 3 May, near the Thai-Lao border in Chiang Rai province, following what appeared to be a coordinated attack on several positions of the Lao military directly across from Wiang Kaen district. At approximately 22:30, residents of Ban Romfahphamon village in Moo 15, Por sub-district, reported a loud exchange of gunfire from across the Mekong River. Shortly afterwards, bullets reportedly pierced the roof of a local home. Fortunately, no injuries were sustained. The origin of the attack is believed to be in the area of Ban Phu Pha Mon, located in Pak Tha District, Bokeo Province of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), just across the border from Thailand. The clash appeared to have initially occurred about two kilometres from the Thai border. In response, Major General Kidakorn Chantra, Commander of the Pha Muang Task Force, instructed Colonel Pairat Srichaiwan, Commanding Officer of the 31st Ranger Regiment Task Force, to monitor the situation closely. Thai military personnel have since increased their presence along the border to prevent any potential spillover of violence. In a formal communication, Major General Kidakorn also contacted his Lao counterpart, the head of the coordination team for the Lao-Thai border in Bokeo Province, expressing concern over the cross-border trajectory of the gunfire. He urged the Lao side to investigate the incident thoroughly and to take precautionary measures to prevent harm to Thai civilians and maintain peace in the border region. The incident has raised concern among residents, especially given the proximity of the gunfire. Thai authorities continue to monitor the area with heightened vigilance and have requested timely updates from their Lao counterparts should any further military activity occur. The situation remains under close observation by Thai security forces, with a continued emphasis on public safety and cross-border coordination. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-05.

Gunman Kills Niece and Her Husband in Boundary Dispute Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 72-year-old former village headman shot and killed his niece and her husband in a daylight attack triggered by an ongoing feud over a boundary wall between their adjoining homes. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359745-gunman-kills-niece-and-her-husband-in-boundary-dispute/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 72-year-old former village headman shot and killed his niece and her husband in a daylight attack triggered by an ongoing feud over a boundary wall between their adjoining homes. The double homicide occurred around midday on 4 May, in Soi Boonthanom, Samrong subdistrict, Phra Pradaeng district. Emergency services were alerted via the 1669 hotline and quickly responded, with officers from Samrong Tai Police Station and rescue teams from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation dispatched to the scene. The victims, Mr. Amnat, 55, and his wife Mrs. Surin, 50, were found dead in the driveway area of their home. Mr. Amnat had been shot in the chest, while Mrs. Surin had been fatally shot in the head. Seven 9mm bullet casings were found scattered at the scene, along with a semi-automatic handgun, believed to have been used in the shooting. The suspect, identified as Mr. Manit, a 72-year-old former headman of Village 5 in Samrong, reportedly fled the scene in a Toyota saloon car. Police launched a manhunt, alerting nearby patrols to intercept the vehicle. Investigators confirmed that the victims and the suspect were relatives, living in adjacent townhouses separated by a shared concrete wall. The fatal confrontation reportedly stemmed from a dispute over the construction of a new noise-blocking fence, which the victims were undertaking. Tensions escalated after Mr. Manit accused his relatives of damaging his property during the work. According to statements from family members, the altercation began when Mr. Manit demanded that no drilling be done on the shared fence. Mrs. Surin allegedly challenged him, asking whether he would dare to shoot. He then retrieved a firearm and opened fire on his niece’s family. A neighbour reported hearing six to seven gunshots, after which the assailant drove off. Police later confirmed that the suspect had also attempted to shoot the victims’ son, who narrowly escaped unharmed by fleeing into the house. This is not the first violent incident involving Mr. Manit. Just a month prior, he had been involved in another altercation in which an 80-year-old woman, reportedly a family member, was struck on the head with a metal bar. That case remains in the courts. Local residents expressed shock at the escalation of what had been a long-standing dispute between the family. At 15:20 on 4 May, Police Station officers were able to track down the suspect while he was driving on Khao Lam Road, Bangsaen inbound, Saensuk Subdistrict, Mueang Chonburi. He was arrested and taken to investigators in Samrong. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-05.

Man Killed, Wife Critically Injured in Collision in Amnat Charoen Picture courtesy of Komchadluek. A road crash in Amnat Charoen has claimed the life of a 71-year-old man and left his wife critically injured after a speeding car collided with their pickup truck early on morning on 4 May. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359744-man-killed-wife-critically-injured-in-collision-in-amnat-charoen/

Picture courtesy of Komchadluek. A road crash in Amnat Charoen has claimed the life of a 71-year-old man and left his wife critically injured after a speeding car collided with their pickup truck early on morning on 4 May. At around 06:30, Pol Sub Lt Wisarut Aruno, an investigator at Mueang Amnat Charoen Police Station, received a report of a collision between a sedan and a pickup truck at a U-turn near Ramkhamhaeng University in Amnat Charoen province. Medical personnel from Amnat Charoen Hospital, Phetkasem Rescue Foundation, and local emergency services from Kaikam Subdistrict were dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, authorities discovered an Isuzu D-Max pickup truck, bronze-gold in colour, with Ubon Ratchathani registration plates, overturned on the driver’s side. Under the vehicle lay the lifeless body of Mr Swat 71, with severe head injuries and significant blood loss. Preliminary investigations revealed that Mr Swat and his 54-year-old wife, Mrs Chaveewan, were travelling from Det Udom District, Ubon Ratchathani, to Loeng Nok Tha District in Yasothon. While passing through Amnat Charoen city, their vehicle was struck from the rear at high speed by a white Honda Mobilio, registered in Ubon Ratchathani and driven by Mr Krittin 22. The force of the impact sent the pickup soaring over the central reservation, where it struck and toppled a streetlight pole before overturning. Mr Swat was thrown from the vehicle and crushed. Rescue workers had to lift the truck to retrieve his body. Mrs Chaveewan, who was riding in the passenger seat, sustained a serious injury to her head, above her left eye but remained conscious. The pickup was found on the opposite side of the road, while the sedan had careened into a ditch and crashed through an embankment, suffering front-end damage. The driver of the sedan also sustained a head injury and was taken to Amnat Charoen Hospital for treatment. Both vehicles have been seized by police at Mueang Amnat Charoen Police Station for further investigation. Authorities are working to determine the precise cause of the crash, including whether speed, distraction, or other factors played a role. Adapted by Asean Now from Khomchadluek 2025-05-05.

Anthrax Scare Shakes Beef Market in Mukdahan as Locals Switch to Fish & Poultry Picture courtesy of Matichon. Concerns over an anthrax outbreak have significantly impacted the beef market in the northeastern province of Mukdahan, where locals are increasingly turning to alternative meats such as fish, chicken and pork amid fears of infection. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359743-anthrax-scare-shakes-beef-market-in-mukdahan-as-locals-switch-to-fish-poultry/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Concerns over an anthrax outbreak have significantly impacted the beef market in the northeastern province of Mukdahan, where locals are increasingly turning to alternative meats such as fish, chicken and pork amid fears of infection. Following the recent confirmation of a fatal case of anthrax in Don Tan district, consumer confidence in beef has sharply declined. The usually busy beef stalls at the municipal fresh market in Mukdahan’s Muang district have seen a dramatic drop in footfall, with many vendors reporting only sporadic sales throughout the day. The main customers for these stalls, typically vendors of popular Isaan dishes such as larb (spicy minced meat salad), koi (raw minced beef salad), tom (beef soup), and soi ju (raw beef with blood), have significantly reduced their orders. Members of the public, too, are changing their eating habits, opting instead for safer choices like fish, chicken, and pork. Before the anthrax scare, beef was highly popular among residents of Mukdahan and the broader northeastern region, especially in raw preparations that are a staple of local culinary traditions. However, the death of one individual due to anthrax in Don Tan district has led to heightened anxiety, especially given the bacterial nature of the infection, Bacillus anthracis, which can be transmitted through contaminated meat. In response, Don Tan district officials have issued strict bans on the slaughter of cattle and buffalo during this month’s traditional Bun Bang Fai (rocket festival), a time when villages customarily gather and share meals that often include raw beef dishes. The district’s livestock officers are now conducting rigorous inspections to ensure compliance. As a result, communities that would normally serve large quantities of beef at festive gatherings have been forced to adjust their menus. Dishes featuring fish, chicken, and pork have replaced raw beef on tables across the region, marking a significant cultural shift during one of the northeast’s most important annual celebrations. Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359368-anthrax-death-reported-in-mukdahan-province/ Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-05.

Father Shoots Son Dead in Loei, Claims Years of Abuse Sparked Act Picture courtesy of Amarin A 61-year-old man has turned himself in to police after fatally shooting his 40-year-old son in the back of the head with a shotgun, citing years of alcohol and drug-fuelled violence against him and his wife as the cause of his breaking point. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359742-father-shoots-son-dead-in-loei-claims-years-of-abuse-sparked-act/

Picture courtesy of Amarin A 61-year-old man has turned himself in to police after fatally shooting his 40-year-old son in the back of the head with a shotgun, citing years of alcohol and drug-fuelled violence against him and his wife as the cause of his breaking point. The incident occurred around 19.00 on 3 May at a residence in Village 5, Tambon Puan Phu, Nong Hin District, Loei Province. Police investigators, forensic officers, rescue workers, and a medical team responded to reports of a fatal shooting at the rear of the property. The victim, Mr Boonthan Singhadetcha, was found dead in the outdoor kitchen area. He had suffered a single gunshot wound to the right side of the back of his head, inflicted with a sawn-off 20-gauge shotgun. His body was discovered slumped forward into a plastic rubbish bin. The suspect, identified as Mr Saen Singhadetcha, the victim’s father, fled the scene on a motorcycle. Police launched an immediate search and found a witness, Mr Apichat Sopharak, 37, a friend of the victim who had been drinking with him at the time. Later, Mr Saen’s relatives contacted police to report that he wished to surrender. He confessed to the killing and led officers to the location where he had hidden the weapon, on top of a water tank around 50 metres from the scene. According to his statement, Mr Saen said his son had long struggled with alcohol and methamphetamine abuse, often becoming aggressive and physically violent toward his parents. On the day before the incident, Mr Saen claimed that after an argument, he left home to sleep at a nearby farm hut. The next morning, he returned to retrieve the shotgun, reportedly owned by his son and hidden beneath a mattress. He said he test-fired the weapon once in the field before returning home that evening. There, Mr Apichat offered him two or three shots of rice whisky. Without speaking to his son, Mr Saen then approached from behind and shot him at point-blank range. Following the shooting, he fled to a relative’s house in Na Duang District but later received a phone call from his wife urging him to surrender. He told officers he regretted the act but had reached his limit after years of suffering. Mr Saen is now in police custody as legal proceedings commence. The case has reignited public discussion on domestic violence and mental strain within families affected by addiction. Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-05.

Nakhon Phanom Man Seriously Injured After Chemical Drum Explosion Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A 57-year-old rice mill owner from Nakhon Phanom was left in critical condition after a 200-litre chemical drum he was cutting exploded violently, injuring him in front of his children. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359741-nakhon-phanom-man-seriously-injured-after-chemical-drum-explosion/

Picture courtesy of Kaoded. A 57-year-old rice mill owner from Nakhon Phanom was left in critical condition after a 200-litre chemical drum he was cutting exploded violently, injuring him in front of his children. Emergency services were called to Ban Don Daeng, Moo 9, in Kam Toei Subdistrict at around 11:00 on 3 May, following reports of an explosion involving an unidentified drum. Responders from Kam Toei Subdistrict Administrative Organisation and staff from Nakhon Phanom Hospital rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, emergency teams found the remains of a blue chemical drum with its lid blown open and the base severely dented. Nearby were fragments of a metal-cutting wheel, a damaged angle grinder, a pair of sandals, and a pool of blood. The victim, identified as Mr Thani Sonpaeng, 57, had sustained severe facial and neck injuries and was rendered unconscious. His youngest son rushed him to Nakhon Phanom Hospital, where he was immediately taken into intensive care for emergency surgery. Doctors later discovered a brain haemorrhage and arranged for his transfer to Sakhon Nakhon Hospital for further treatment. Mr Thani’s daughter, Ms Piyanuch Sonpaeng, 31, recounted the moment. “I was resting in a hammock when I heard a deafening bang. I ran out and saw my father unconscious and covered in blood,” she said tearfully. Ms Piyanuch had only just returned home after undergoing uterine surgery the day before. Family members and neighbours confirmed that Mr Thani had recently purchased the drum from a local dealer and was attempting to repurpose it into a charcoal-burning stove. He was reportedly using a grinder to cut open the drum without first venting or emptying it, which likely caused residual vapours inside to ignite. One witness stated: “He didn’t open the cap before cutting into the drum. There was still either gas or chemical residue inside. White liquid-like substances spilled out after the blast.” Mr Thani’s wife, Mrs Liang Sonpaeng, 57, who was working in the fields at the time of the explosion, was devastated upon learning of the accident. “I came home to find my husband had already been taken to hospital. I hugged my daughter and broke down crying. It was all too much,” she said. Adapted by Asean Now from Kaoded 2025-05-05.

Former Bangkok Technical Student Arrested After 10 Years on the Run for Attempted Murder Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A former technical school student wanted in connection with a violent gang-related shooting over a decade ago has been arrested in Bangkok after eluding justice for more than 10 years. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359740-former-bangkok-technical-student-arrested-after-10-years-on-the-run-for-attempted-murder/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A former technical school student wanted in connection with a violent gang-related shooting over a decade ago has been arrested in Bangkok after eluding justice for more than 10 years. Police from Thailand’s Crime Suppression Division apprehended Mr. Natthawut 29, in Soi Liap Wari 29, in the Nong Chok district of Bangkok, acting on an outstanding arrest warrant issued by the Min Buri Provincial Court in July 2014. The charges include attempted murder, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, carrying a firearm in public without reasonable cause, and discharging a firearm in a public place. According to police, the incident occurred 11 years ago when the suspect, then a student at a well-known vocational school in the Bang Kapi area, became involved in a violent altercation with a rival group from a technical college in Min Buri. Riding a motorcycle, Mr. Natthawut and his accomplices pursued their rivals from Ramkhamhaeng Road to Seri Thai Road in the Bueng Kum district. During the chase, he allegedly fired a shot that struck a student from the opposing group in the left side of the chest. The victim survived the attack but sustained serious injuries. Due to the bullet lodging dangerously close to vital organs, surgeons were unable to remove it. Following the attack, the victim reported the incident to police once his condition stabilised, leading to an arrest warrant being issued for Mr. Natthawut. Investigators recently tracked him down to the Nong Chok area, where he had reportedly been living under the radar. Upon his arrest, Mr. Natthawut admitted he was the person named in the warrant but declined to comment further on the incident. He was subsequently transferred to Bueng Kum Police Station for legal proceedings. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-05.

Man Saves One Girl as Another Drowns in Front of Him Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A family seaside outing turned to tragedy yesterday when two young girls were swept out to sea at Thung Wua Laen Beach in Chumphon province. Despite a heroic rescue attempt by a newlywed holidaymaker, only one child could be saved. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359739-man-saves-one-girl-as-another-drowns-in-front-of-him/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A family seaside outing turned to tragedy yesterday when two young girls were swept out to sea at Thung Wua Laen Beach in Chumphon province. Despite a heroic rescue attempt by a newlywed holidaymaker, only one child could be saved. The incident occurred at approximately 17:00 on 3 May. Police Lieutenant Worut Somsong, an investigator with Pathio Police Station, received reports of two children drowning at the popular beach in Saphli subdistrict. Emergency rescue teams from the Salachon Rescue Unit and Chumphon Charity Foundation rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, rescuers found one of the girls, 12-year-old Napaporn from Ranong province, semi-conscious after being pulled from the water. She was immediately taken to Chumphon Khet Udomsak Hospital for urgent treatment. The second girl, identified as 12-year-old Suchada from Kamphaeng Phet, could not be revived despite prolonged CPR efforts and was pronounced dead at the scene. Her body has been recovered approximately 200 metres from shore. The would-be rescuer, 29-year-old Phongsakorn Sriphet, had been holidaying at the beach with his wife, brother-in-law, and nephew, celebrating his recent wedding. He described how he saw the two girls playing in the water nearby before noticing that one had vanished. Moments later, the second girl also disappeared beneath the surface, prompting screams for help. Without hesitation, Phongsakorn dashed into the sea to reach them. “I didn’t think about anything else, I just knew I had to try to save them,” he said. “I was only able to reach one in time. The other girl drifted away and went under right before my eyes. It’s something I’ll never forget.” His wife, a nurse at Lamphun Hospital, administered first aid to Napaporn with the help of other tourists trained in emergency response until professional rescuers arrived. Eyewitnesses expressed concern over the lack of safety measures at the beach. Kachonsak Panyakham, 53, a fellow tourist, said: “Thung Wua Laen is known for its beauty, but it’s worrying that there is no clear system for monitoring or safeguarding swimmers, especially during school holidays when children come to play.” Initial investigations revealed that the two girls had travelled with relatives from Ranong to enjoy a holiday at the beach. While their family members remained onshore, the girls entered the water unaware of the depth. Neither of them could swim well. Suchada, the girl who died, had reportedly tried to push her friend toward the shore before succumbing to exhaustion. Local officials are being urged to review safety protocols at the province’s beaches to prevent further tragedies. Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-05.

Man Killed in Motorbike Crash After Overnight Drinking Session in Udon Thani Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 25-year-old man died on the morning of 4 May after crashing his motorcycle into a roadside guardrail on the Udon Thani ring road. The accident occurred shortly after he had reportedly spent the night drinking with friends. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359738-man-killed-in-motorbike-crash-after-overnight-drinking-session-in-udon-thani/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A 25-year-old man died on the morning of 4 May after crashing his motorcycle into a roadside guardrail on the Udon Thani ring road. The accident occurred shortly after he had reportedly spent the night drinking with friends. Police and emergency responders were called to the scene at approximately 07:00, near the Udon Thani Elderly Home in Nong Bua subdistrict. Officers from Mueang Udon Thani Police Station, along with medical personnel from Udon Thani Hospital and volunteers from a local rescue foundation, arrived to find the body of Mr Chutipon, 25, lying face-up in the grass beside the road. His white Honda Scoopy motorbike was found about 30 metres away, showing scrape marks on the front left side. No official identification was found on the victim, though a mobile phone and a lighter were recovered from his body. A can of whipped cream and a fishing tackle bag were also found under the motorcycle seat. Rescue volunteers managed to unlock the phone using a fingerprint scan and discovered a missed call around 06:00. Returning the call led officers to contact the deceased’s girlfriend. Ms June, also 25, arrived shortly after to confirm the identity of her boyfriend. In shock, she told police that Mr Chutipon sold fruit with his father outside a department store in central Udon Thani, and lived with her and his mother in a nearby housing estate. She said he had gone out around 19:00 the previous evening to meet friends at a local restaurant and had not returned home. She last spoke to him early that morning before receiving the police call. A witness, Mr Phut, 47, said he came across the scene while travelling home to Kalasin Province. He saw a group of people gathered and a motorcycle lying on its side. Upon closer inspection, he saw the lifeless body and realised the situation was severe. Other bystanders reported that three women in a car had stopped and were the first to notify authorities. Police believe the crash occurred as a result of the victim driving at high speed and possibly falling asleep at the wheel. The motorbike appeared to have veered off and clipped the metal barrier, throwing Mr Chutipon into the guardrail with fatal force. No evidence of another vehicle being involved was found at the scene. The body was taken to Udon Thani Hospital for autopsy, including blood tests to determine blood alcohol content. CCTV footage from nearby locations will be reviewed to clarify the cause of the accident and determine if further investigation is necessary. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-05.

UPDATE New Anthrax Case Confirmed in Mukdahan as Health Officials Monitor 98 at Risk Picture courtesy of Matichon. Health authorities in Mukdahan Province have confirmed a new case of anthrax infection in Don Tan District, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to three, with one fatality. Two patients remain under medical care at Don Tan Hospital and Mukdahan Hospital. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359368-anthrax-death-reported-in-mukdahan-province/#findComment-19780108

UPDATE New Anthrax Case Confirmed in Mukdahan as Health Officials Monitor 98 at Risk Picture courtesy of Matichon. Health authorities in Mukdahan Province have confirmed a new case of anthrax infection in Don Tan District, bringing the total number of confirmed cases to three, with one fatality. Two patients remain under medical care at Don Tan Hospital and Mukdahan Hospital. According to the Provincial Public Health Office of Mukdahan (PPHO), the newly reported case was confirmed on 4 May 2025. One additional patient is currently under investigation and awaiting laboratory test results at Don Tan Hospital. The outbreak, which began in late April, has prompted a significant public health response. A total of 636 individuals identified as having had contact with infected animals or patients have been placed under disease surveillance. As of 4 May, 538 of them have completed the required seven-day monitoring period for cutaneous and gastrointestinal anthrax exposure. The remaining 98 people continue to be closely monitored. Anthrax, a rare but serious bacterial infection, is typically contracted through contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products. The Don Tan district remains the centre of the outbreak, with authorities maintaining heightened surveillance and public health measures in the area. Local health officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any symptoms consistent with anthrax infection, such as skin lesions, fever, or gastrointestinal issues, to medical professionals immediately. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-05.

Three Years of Governor Chadchart: 35% of Bangkokians ‘Highly Satisfied’, Tamrongsak Poll Picture courtesy of Matichon. A recent independent survey led by Associate Professor Dr Tamrongsak Petchlertanan from Rangsit University shows that 35.89% of Bangkok residents are “highly satisfied” with the performance of Governor Chadchart Sittipunt over the past three years. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359737-three-years-of-governor-chadchart-35-of-bangkokians-‘highly-satisfied’-tamrongsak-poll/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A recent independent survey led by Associate Professor Dr Tamrongsak Petchlertanan from Rangsit University shows that 35.89% of Bangkok residents are “highly satisfied” with the performance of Governor Chadchart Sittipunt over the past three years. Governor Chadchart, who assumed office as Bangkok’s 17th governor on 1 June 2022 after winning the May 2022 election as an independent with over 1.38 million votes (51.84%), has implemented his vision of a “livable city for all” through 216 policies across nine key areas. The poll, based on 1,557 respondents between 5–24 April 2025, was conducted by political science students at undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels. The question posed was: “How satisfied are you with Governor Chadchart’s performance over the past three years?” The results were as follows: • Highly satisfied – 35.89% (557 respondents) • Satisfied – 34.60% (537) • Moderately satisfied – 23.39% (363) • Slightly dissatisfied – 3.74% (58) • Very dissatisfied – 2.38% (37) This means that over 70% of respondents expressed positive satisfaction, while just over 6% were dissatisfied. The survey was complemented by additional research conducted by final-year undergraduate student Pracharat Phoanoi, also of Rangsit University. His study, titled “Public Satisfaction with the Administration of Governor Chadchart Sittipunt”, focused on specific performance areas: • Environment (average score 3.80/5): Residents were most pleased with waste collection, public cleanliness, and communication about PM2.5 pollution. • Transport (3.75): Top praise went to sidewalk maintenance and public lighting. • Administration (3.65): Efforts to reduce flooding and disaster response drew particular approval. The only area that scored at a “moderate” satisfaction level was the fight against corruption within the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), with an average of 3.36. Demographic breakdown of the 1,557 respondents included: • Gender: 53.1% female, 41.9% male, 4.9% did not state. • Age: Gen Z (18–28) made up the largest group at 47.85%, followed by Gen Y (29–45) at 27.75% • Education: Most respondents (61.85%) held a bachelor’s degree • Occupation: Students (34.36%), private sector employees (19.97%), and government workers (12.91%) were the leading groups • Income: The largest segment (26.4%) earned between ฿10,001 and ฿20,000 per month, while 17.8% reported having no income It is important to note that the Tamrongsak Poll is an independent research initiative and is not affiliated with any academic institution or government body. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-05.

Police Officer Dies in Bomb Attack While Investigating Murder Picture courtesy of Amarin. A police officer has died and two others were injured following a bomb blast in Narathiwat province on 4 May, in what authorities believe was a targeted attack linked to an ongoing murder investigation. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359736-police-officer-dies-in-bomb-attack-while-investigating-murder/

Picture courtesy of Amarin. A police officer has died and two others were injured following a bomb blast in Narathiwat province on 4 May, in what authorities believe was a targeted attack linked to an ongoing murder investigation. The explosion occurred at approximately 13:30 in the village of Ai Rakho (also referred to as Ban Yoi and Ban Ai Ro So), Moo 5, Chang Phueak subdistrict, Chanae district. The officers, part of the Narathiwat provincial police’s investigative unit, were in the area to retrieve CCTV footage related to a separate, shocking incident in which a blind disabled woman and her son were gunned down on 2 May. As the officers approached an electricity pole to collect surveillance equipment, an improvised explosive device (IED) planted at the site detonated. The blast injured three officers: • Police Sub-Lieutenant Phakaphong Suwannachana, sustained shrapnel wounds to the face and left wrist. Initially reported as conscious but in critical condition. • Police Sergeant Major Satit Khamhaeng, wounded in the head by shrapnel, remained conscious. • Police Sub-Lieutenant Theepakorn Chusing, injured in the right leg, also remained conscious. Sub-Lieutenant Phakaphong Suwannachana, who had been rushed to Narathiwat Hospital in a critical state, succumbed to his injuries at around 16:50. Initial investigations suggest the attack was a deliberate attempt to thwart the investigation into the double murder earlier this week. The explosive was concealed near the power pole, a location the perpetrators may have known would be visited by police collecting surveillance footage. The incident comes amid a renewed wave of violence in Thailand’s deep south, including recent bombings in Pattani and a motorcycle bomb near a military outpost. These events have prompted senior military officials to call for a reassessment of security protocols in the region. The death of Sub-Lieutenant Phakaphong underscores the ongoing danger faced by security personnel working in the restive provinces in the southern, where separatist violence has persisted for nearly two decades. Authorities continue to investigate the bombing and are appealing to the public for any information that could lead to the arrest of those responsible. Related article: https://aseannow.com/topic/1359597-violence-flares-again-in-the-deep-south-gunmen-kill-elderly-woman-in-narathiwat-attack/ Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-05-05.

Frequent Power Outages, Mayor & Residents Apprehend Suspected Wire Thief in Nonthaburi Picture courtesy of Matichon. A Myanmar national was apprehended early morning after residents and the mayor of Bang Rak Phatthana joined forces to catch a suspected electricity cable thief, following a series of unexplained power outages in the area. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1359724-frequent-power-outages-mayor-residents-apprehend-suspected-wire-thief-in-nonthaburi/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. A Myanmar national was apprehended early morning after residents and the mayor of Bang Rak Phatthana joined forces to catch a suspected electricity cable thief, following a series of unexplained power outages in the area. The incident occurred around 05:00 on 4 May, near Chanthong Iam Alley, close to the Wat Phai Luang intersection in Village 4, Bang Rak Phatthana subdistrict, Bang Bua Thong district. The suspect, identified as Mr Aun 23, a resident of nearby Bang Yai district, was caught in possession of several lengths of electrical cable, a motorbike with no licence plate, tools, and drug paraphernalia. Mayor Pitak Yusuk, who was alerted by locals, arrived at the scene and assisted in detaining the suspect while police were called. Residents had previously complained about frequent failures of street lighting in the area, prompting the mayor to encourage them to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. According to Mayor Pitak, repeated thefts of public lighting cables had plunged sections of the community into darkness. On this occasion, two men were reportedly spotted arriving by motorcycle in the early morning hours. When confronted by locals, one suspect fled by jumping into a nearby canal, while the other was successfully detained. Officers from Bang Bua Thong Police Station later arrived to take custody of Mr Aun. A preliminary drug screening revealed a positive result for methamphetamine. The suspect was subsequently transferred to Bang Bua Thong Hospital for drug testing confirmation and then taken into police custody for further questioning. During interrogation, Mr Aun confessed to using drugs shortly before the attempted theft and named his accomplice as Mr Natthaphon, also known as “Nut”, who escaped the scene. Mr Aun also admitted that some of the wires in his possession had likely been stolen from elsewhere, as they did not match municipal cables. Police are continuing their investigation and are seeking the second suspect. Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-05-05.