https://aseannow.com/rss/44-thailand-news.xml/National and regional news from all around ThailandenWed, 17 Jun 2026 22:42:19 +0000How low can you go..... It will make China happy, that Thailand is cooperating with Russia... desperate actionWed, 17 Jun 2026 22:41:12 +0000My uk based thai lady friend (not married) bought a plot of land across the soi from her family home in Isaan. Part of the purchase was that I could use the land as a garden/orchard with some sort of prefabricated accommodation for my retirement. I asked if i could lease the land . I am concerned that we could fall out or she passes before me and have no security with her existing family. Without her knowledge I visited the local land office branch to enquire about the process. I did wonder if something was lost in translation. The head person made it clear that a 30 year lease was not possible. I was told that a 3 year lease was possible. I understand that percentage of the lease is payable . There is no payment intended for the lease. Any comments or thoughts.Wed, 17 Jun 2026 22:34:34 +0000Good luck with that. Get back to us in a year, tell us how you wiped out all that mafia influence.Wed, 17 Jun 2026 22:29:38 +0000What a buffoon! Is he attempting suicide by trike? I've been on that road on a Honda 125, it's WAY too busy for that little 3 wheeler. A commercial truck might not even see it in front and squash him like a bug.Wed, 17 Jun 2026 22:27:40 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/british-boxer-dies-after-phuket-tuk-tuk-fall-r2372/Colin Cairney, an undefeated Scottish welterweight boxer, has died aged 22 after suffering catastrophic injuries in a road incident during a holiday in Thailand. Cairney had been left on life support following the incident, which occurred in the early hours of 14 June on the island of Phuket. Get today's headlines by email His boxing club, Team 1314, confirmed his death in a statement posted on a GoFundMe page established to support his family. The club described the loss as devastating and paid tribute to a boxer they said was “family” and a valued part of the team. According to reports, Cairney was returning to his hotel after a night of partying in Phuket when the incident happened. It is understood he became involved in a dispute with the driver of a tuk-tuk over payment of the fare. The driver was reportedly taking him to an ATM so he could withdraw cash. During the return journey, Cairney fell from the back of the vehicle and suffered a severe head injury. Emergency medical personnel arrived at approximately 4.10am and transported him to Patong Hospital. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, he was later transferred to Vachira Phuket Hospital for further treatment. Before his death was confirmed, Cairney’s family launched a GoFundMe appeal seeking assistance to return him to the UK for treatment and recovery. The fundraising page raised more than GBP60,000. The family wrote: “We are reaching out with heavy hearts to ask for help for our son, who has been seriously injured in an accident while in Thailand.” They added: “What began as a normal trip has turned into every parent’s worst nightmare.” Following confirmation of his death, tributes continued to be paid by friends, supporters and members of the boxing community. Team 1314 said: “Everyone at Team 1314 is absolutely devastated by the loss of our Colin.” The club added: “Colin, you will be remembered forever and will always be in our hearts. Rest easy, Champ.” A separate fundraiser organised by Team 1314 has raised more than GBP55,000. The club described the period as “an incredibly difficult and heartbreaking time for everyone who knows and loves him.” The Sun reported that Cairney leaves behind an unbeaten professional record of 10 victories from 10 fights, including six wins by knockout. His family, friends and supporters are now mourning his loss while continuing arrangements following his death. Picture courtesy of The Sun Related stories British-boxer-falls-from-tuk-tuk-in-Phuket Tuk-tuk-driver-sought-after-British-tourist-hurt-in-Phuket Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now The-Sun 18 June 2026Wed, 17 Jun 2026 22:26:37 +0000Colin Cairney, an undefeated Scottish welterweight boxer, has died aged 22 after suffering catastrophic injuries in a road incident during a holiday in Thailand. Cairney had been left on life support following the incident, which occurred in the early hours of 14 June on the island of Phuket. Get today's headlines by email His boxing club, Team 1314, confirmed his death in a statement posted on a GoFundMe page established to support his family. The club described the loss as devastating and paid tribute to a boxer they said was “family” and a valued part of the team. According to reports, Cairney was returning to his hotel after a night of partying in Phuket when the incident happened. It is understood he became involved in a dispute with the driver of a tuk-tuk over payment of the fare. The driver was reportedly taking him to an ATM so he could withdraw cash. During the return journey, Cairney fell from the back of the vehicle and suffered a severe head injury. Emergency medical personnel arrived at approximately 4.10am and transported him to Patong Hospital. Due to the seriousness of his injuries, he was later transferred to Vachira Phuket Hospital for further treatment. Before his death was confirmed, Cairney’s family launched a GoFundMe appeal seeking assistance to return him to the UK for treatment and recovery. The fundraising page raised more than GBP60,000. The family wrote: “We are reaching out with heavy hearts to ask for help for our son, who has been seriously injured in an accident while in Thailand.” They added: “What began as a normal trip has turned into every parent’s worst nightmare.” Following confirmation of his death, tributes continued to be paid by friends, supporters and members of the boxing community. Team 1314 said: “Everyone at Team 1314 is absolutely devastated by the loss of our Colin.” The club added: “Colin, you will be remembered forever and will always be in our hearts. Rest easy, Champ.” A separate fundraiser organised by Team 1314 has raised more than GBP55,000. The club described the period as “an incredibly difficult and heartbreaking time for everyone who knows and loves him.” The Sun reported that Cairney leaves behind an unbeaten professional record of 10 victories from 10 fights, including six wins by knockout. His family, friends and supporters are now mourning his loss while continuing arrangements following his death. Picture courtesy of The Sun Related stories British-boxer-falls-from-tuk-tuk-in-Phuket Tuk-tuk-driver-sought-after-British-tourist-hurt-in-Phuket Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now The-Sun 18 June 2026 View full articleWed, 17 Jun 2026 22:26:37 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/elderly-rider-fined-after-driving-e-trike-through-traffic-r2371/A 75-year-old man has been fined by police after being filmed riding an electric three-wheeled trike through the busy Ha Yaek Lat Phrao intersection in Bangkok, prompting safety concerns among motorists and social media users. Get today's headlines by email On 17 June, Pol Maj Gen Damrongsak Sawangngam, commander of the Traffic Police Division, and Pol Lt Col Dampawon Thong-im, deputy superintendent of the Vibhavadi-Rangsit Traffic Control Centre and Expressway Unit, ordered officers from Vibhavadi Police Station to summon the rider, identified only as Mr A, aged 75. He was brought in for legal proceedings and fined in accordance with traffic regulations. The action followed the circulation of dashboard camera footage recorded on 10 June 2026. The video, which was widely shared online, showed the elderly man driving an electric three-wheeled trike along the roadway at Ha Yaek Lat Phrao while surrounded by heavy traffic and passing vehicles. After becoming aware of the footage, traffic officers launched an investigation and gathered evidence. They were eventually able to locate the rider and invite him for discussions regarding the relevant laws before issuing a fine under the proper legal procedures. Picture courtesy of Daily News Police also used the case to remind the public that electric scooters, certain types of electric bicycles, electric three-wheeled bicycles, trikes and electric suitcases are not permitted on public roads. Authorities said such vehicles may pose risks to both riders and other road users and do not comply with current traffic regulations. Officials urged members of the public, particularly elderly people and their families, to choose vehicles suitable for their intended environment and avoid using these types of electric vehicles on busy roads. Police warned that even a brief lapse in judgement could result in serious accidents and significant loss. Reports stated that the man was wearing dark sunglasses and was driving an electric three-wheeled trike displaying the registration “Tong 9”. The vehicle was travelling slowly within a traffic lane, prompting concern from other road users who feared a serious collision could occur. In the video, the person recording the incident can be heard saying: “This is Ha Yaek Lat Phrao, uncle. It is very dangerous. If anyone is his children or grandchildren, please come and look after him.” Following the video’s release, many social media users commented on the incident, with some jokingly describing the man’s actions as “speeding up the inheritance” for his descendants. Daily News reported that police said they will continue public awareness efforts regarding the legal use of electric vehicles and road safety to help prevent similar incidents and reduce the risk of accidents. AQMn-gOFerfI9b2jhk5UK252i4WkCTcfmQdQvP16wnBESLlB5c7bFCGBi25z1DMM6Pf95i8iLQBLEdO2V_rZ2okEy2SMcw42C6tML6_bBw.mp4 Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 18 June 2026Wed, 17 Jun 2026 22:12:54 +0000A 75-year-old man has been fined by police after being filmed riding an electric three-wheeled trike through the busy Ha Yaek Lat Phrao intersection in Bangkok, prompting safety concerns among motorists and social media users. Get today's headlines by email On 17 June, Pol Maj Gen Damrongsak Sawangngam, commander of the Traffic Police Division, and Pol Lt Col Dampawon Thong-im, deputy superintendent of the Vibhavadi-Rangsit Traffic Control Centre and Expressway Unit, ordered officers from Vibhavadi Police Station to summon the rider, identified only as Mr A, aged 75. He was brought in for legal proceedings and fined in accordance with traffic regulations. The action followed the circulation of dashboard camera footage recorded on 10 June 2026. The video, which was widely shared online, showed the elderly man driving an electric three-wheeled trike along the roadway at Ha Yaek Lat Phrao while surrounded by heavy traffic and passing vehicles. After becoming aware of the footage, traffic officers launched an investigation and gathered evidence. They were eventually able to locate the rider and invite him for discussions regarding the relevant laws before issuing a fine under the proper legal procedures. Picture courtesy of Daily News Police also used the case to remind the public that electric scooters, certain types of electric bicycles, electric three-wheeled bicycles, trikes and electric suitcases are not permitted on public roads. Authorities said such vehicles may pose risks to both riders and other road users and do not comply with current traffic regulations. Officials urged members of the public, particularly elderly people and their families, to choose vehicles suitable for their intended environment and avoid using these types of electric vehicles on busy roads. Police warned that even a brief lapse in judgement could result in serious accidents and significant loss. Reports stated that the man was wearing dark sunglasses and was driving an electric three-wheeled trike displaying the registration “Tong 9”. The vehicle was travelling slowly within a traffic lane, prompting concern from other road users who feared a serious collision could occur. In the video, the person recording the incident can be heard saying: “This is Ha Yaek Lat Phrao, uncle. It is very dangerous. If anyone is his children or grandchildren, please come and look after him.” Following the video’s release, many social media users commented on the incident, with some jokingly describing the man’s actions as “speeding up the inheritance” for his descendants. Daily News reported that police said they will continue public awareness efforts regarding the legal use of electric vehicles and road safety to help prevent similar incidents and reduce the risk of accidents. AQMn-gOFerfI9b2jhk5UK252i4WkCTcfmQdQvP16wnBESLlB5c7bFCGBi25z1DMM6Pf95i8iLQBLEdO2V_rZ2okEy2SMcw42C6tML6_bBw.mp4 Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 18 June 2026 View full articleWed, 17 Jun 2026 22:12:54 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/samui-tourism-sector-backs-mafia-crackdown-on-islands-r2370/Tourism businesses on Koh Samui and Koh Phangan have voiced strong support for a government crackdown on mafia groups and illegal business networks, saying such activities damage the islands’ reputation and undermine fair competition. Get today's headlines by email On 17 June 2026, Ratchaporn Poolsawad, Vice President of the Tourism Council of Thailand and former president of the Koh Samui Tourism Promotion Association, spoke on behalf of tourism operators on both islands. He said the term “mafia” in the tourism sector extends beyond traditional criminal groups and includes unequal business structures operating outside the law. According to Ratchaporn, the problem includes the exploitation of tourists, price gouging, and the occupation of public land for private gain. He said these issues have become deeply rooted over many years and have harmed the tourism environment on the islands. The private sector is calling on the government to adopt a zero-tolerance approach, focusing on equal and consistent enforcement of the law. Tourism operators argue that all businesses should be given a fair opportunity to compete and that illegal operators should be brought into the formal tax system. Ratchaporn said that once businesses enter the tax system, government agencies can oversee and collect revenue transparently. He added that this would help eliminate opportunities for individuals or organised groups to demand illegal payments or protection money. Industry representatives have also urged stronger screening measures for foreign nationals seeking to conduct business in Thailand. They want immigration authorities to carry out stricter checks on criminal records, outstanding warrants and declared occupations to ensure only genuine tourists and legitimate investors enter the country. The comments come as authorities intensify inspections on Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. Recent enforcement efforts have focused on foreign-funded businesses allegedly operating through Thai nominees, as well as measures to regulate public transport services and prevent monopolistic practices that inconvenience visitors. Tourism operators say their greatest concern is the islands’ image. Disputes and confrontations involving local mafia groups and tourists are often widely reported and shared, creating the perception that the destinations are unsafe. Despite ongoing global tourism challenges, including geopolitical tensions and the impact of the conflict in the Middle East on airfares from Europe, operators report continued confidence among European travellers. Survey data indicates visitor numbers during the current low season have reached 70-80 per cent on Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, exceeding levels recorded before the Covid-19 pandemic. Matichon reported that business leaders believe that if the government successfully eliminates mafia influence and restores confidence in public safety, Thailand’s tourism industry could attract substantial investment and sustain strong visitor numbers throughout the year, particularly as the country approaches the key tourism months of the third and fourth quarters. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Matichon 18 June 2026Wed, 17 Jun 2026 22:00:35 +0000Tourism businesses on Koh Samui and Koh Phangan have voiced strong support for a government crackdown on mafia groups and illegal business networks, saying such activities damage the islands’ reputation and undermine fair competition. Get today's headlines by email On 17 June 2026, Ratchaporn Poolsawad, Vice President of the Tourism Council of Thailand and former president of the Koh Samui Tourism Promotion Association, spoke on behalf of tourism operators on both islands. He said the term “mafia” in the tourism sector extends beyond traditional criminal groups and includes unequal business structures operating outside the law. According to Ratchaporn, the problem includes the exploitation of tourists, price gouging, and the occupation of public land for private gain. He said these issues have become deeply rooted over many years and have harmed the tourism environment on the islands. The private sector is calling on the government to adopt a zero-tolerance approach, focusing on equal and consistent enforcement of the law. Tourism operators argue that all businesses should be given a fair opportunity to compete and that illegal operators should be brought into the formal tax system. Ratchaporn said that once businesses enter the tax system, government agencies can oversee and collect revenue transparently. He added that this would help eliminate opportunities for individuals or organised groups to demand illegal payments or protection money. Industry representatives have also urged stronger screening measures for foreign nationals seeking to conduct business in Thailand. They want immigration authorities to carry out stricter checks on criminal records, outstanding warrants and declared occupations to ensure only genuine tourists and legitimate investors enter the country. The comments come as authorities intensify inspections on Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. Recent enforcement efforts have focused on foreign-funded businesses allegedly operating through Thai nominees, as well as measures to regulate public transport services and prevent monopolistic practices that inconvenience visitors. Tourism operators say their greatest concern is the islands’ image. Disputes and confrontations involving local mafia groups and tourists are often widely reported and shared, creating the perception that the destinations are unsafe. Despite ongoing global tourism challenges, including geopolitical tensions and the impact of the conflict in the Middle East on airfares from Europe, operators report continued confidence among European travellers. Survey data indicates visitor numbers during the current low season have reached 70-80 per cent on Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, exceeding levels recorded before the Covid-19 pandemic. Matichon reported that business leaders believe that if the government successfully eliminates mafia influence and restores confidence in public safety, Thailand’s tourism industry could attract substantial investment and sustain strong visitor numbers throughout the year, particularly as the country approaches the key tourism months of the third and fourth quarters. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Matichon 18 June 2026 View full articleWed, 17 Jun 2026 22:00:35 +0000My cleaner just told me a falang just put his house in her name, he no longer wanted to hold it in company name. Panic has officially broken out 😱Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:56:54 +0000Nah, he was elected because some thought he would help the economy in America.Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:56:08 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/kalasin-military-officer-shoots-superior-at-city-hall-r2369/A military officer attached to the Mueang Kalasin District Military Office shot and killed his superior inside the Kalasin Provincial Hall on 17 June 2026, causing panic among civil servants, government employees and members of the public in the building. Get today's headlines by email The shooting occurred at about 9.20am on the fourth floor of the provincial hall, where the Kalasin Provincial Military Office is located. Witnesses reported hearing several gunshots, prompting people inside the building to flee for safety. Police from Mueang Kalasin Police Station, together with Kalasin Governor Suwan Heamthanaphet, Deputy Governor Phadungsak Im-oeb, Pol Maj Gen Songphon Boribanprasit, commander of Kalasin Provincial Police, and provincial permanent secretary Santi Jattuphan, attended the scene with rescue personnel. Officers found the body of Col Korwikanon, the 59-year-old Kalasin provincial military officer, inside his office. Initial examinations showed he had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Picture courtesy of ThaiRath The suspect was identified as Lt Chinkorn, 59, an officer from the Mueang Kalasin District Military Office. He remained at the scene and surrendered to police, who took him into custody along with the firearm allegedly used in the shooting. Preliminary investigations indicate the shooting stemmed from a dispute over an official transfer order. Lt Chinkorn was reportedly dissatisfied with an order transferring him to the Kamalasai District Military Office and had gone to meet Col Korwikanon to discuss the decision. According to investigators, the discussion escalated into a heated argument before Lt Chinkorn allegedly drew the firearm he was carrying and shot his superior. Forensic officers are collecting physical evidence and examining witness accounts to complete the case file. The Kalasin governor instructed authorities to proceed with the investigation in accordance with the law and ordered support measures for staff affected by the incident. Officials said the shooting had caused significant distress among personnel working in the provincial hall. ThaiRath reported that police will continue questioning the suspect to establish the full motive behind the attack before proceeding with criminal charges under the relevant legal process. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 18 June 2026Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:54:28 +0000A military officer attached to the Mueang Kalasin District Military Office shot and killed his superior inside the Kalasin Provincial Hall on 17 June 2026, causing panic among civil servants, government employees and members of the public in the building. Get today's headlines by email The shooting occurred at about 9.20am on the fourth floor of the provincial hall, where the Kalasin Provincial Military Office is located. Witnesses reported hearing several gunshots, prompting people inside the building to flee for safety. Police from Mueang Kalasin Police Station, together with Kalasin Governor Suwan Heamthanaphet, Deputy Governor Phadungsak Im-oeb, Pol Maj Gen Songphon Boribanprasit, commander of Kalasin Provincial Police, and provincial permanent secretary Santi Jattuphan, attended the scene with rescue personnel. Officers found the body of Col Korwikanon, the 59-year-old Kalasin provincial military officer, inside his office. Initial examinations showed he had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Picture courtesy of ThaiRath The suspect was identified as Lt Chinkorn, 59, an officer from the Mueang Kalasin District Military Office. He remained at the scene and surrendered to police, who took him into custody along with the firearm allegedly used in the shooting. Preliminary investigations indicate the shooting stemmed from a dispute over an official transfer order. Lt Chinkorn was reportedly dissatisfied with an order transferring him to the Kamalasai District Military Office and had gone to meet Col Korwikanon to discuss the decision. According to investigators, the discussion escalated into a heated argument before Lt Chinkorn allegedly drew the firearm he was carrying and shot his superior. Forensic officers are collecting physical evidence and examining witness accounts to complete the case file. The Kalasin governor instructed authorities to proceed with the investigation in accordance with the law and ordered support measures for staff affected by the incident. Officials said the shooting had caused significant distress among personnel working in the provincial hall. ThaiRath reported that police will continue questioning the suspect to establish the full motive behind the attack before proceeding with criminal charges under the relevant legal process. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 18 June 2026 View full articleWed, 17 Jun 2026 21:54:28 +0000Prove it's wrong. I don't need to prove anything here, as it's our belief. Maybe you're a figment of our imagination.Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:54:26 +0000Let us know when it clears up and whyWed, 17 Jun 2026 21:53:37 +0000Nothing actually. Some of us already know.Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:52:28 +0000I agree that cars in general have become dull and generic… but EVs have exacerbated this trend. I mean come on, who in their right mind willingly drives a car called Dolphin… 😂 (to the Dolphin drivers, just joshing).Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:50:39 +0000You mean those who entered the US illegally?Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:49:38 +0000Usually no, humanitarian is, but bombs are sometimes warranted.Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:48:10 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/hong-kong-woman-loses-thb40m-to-thai-fortune-teller-scam-r2368/A 47-year-old Thai-Hong Kong woman has sought help from the Saimai Survive page after claiming she lost more than THB40 million to a well-known fortune teller over several years. The woman said she was persuaded to pay for rituals, curse removals and spiritual ceremonies, leaving her heavily indebted and at one stage contemplating suicide. Get today's headlines by email The case was presented on 17 June 2026 at the Saimai Survive coordination centre in Bangkok’s Sai Mai district. The woman, identified only as Ms Ho, said she worked for a company in Hong Kong and initially contacted the fortune teller through a Facebook page while experiencing problems in her relationship. According to Ms Ho, the fortune teller accurately predicted several events in her life, including the later death of a relative, which led her to trust the advice completely. Communication then moved to the Line messaging application, where she was encouraged to take part in what was described as white magic rituals. Ms Ho said she was sent “nam man phrai”, or ghost oil, and instructed to perform ceremonies intended to improve her fortunes and reunite her with her partner. After using the oil, she claimed to have recurring dreams involving spirits, which further strengthened her belief in the fortune teller’s powers. The requests for money later escalated into a series of ceremonies allegedly required to remove bad karma, improve her destiny and correct spiritual wrongdoing. She said she was repeatedly warned that failure to complete the rituals could result in declining health, financial ruin or even death. Payments ranged from THB70,000 for ritual offerings to several hundred thousand baht, with some ceremonies costing more than THB1 million. Over the years, Ms Ho used her savings, retirement funds, overseas bank loans and money borrowed from relatives and friends to make payments. She estimated her personal funds amounted to only THB2-3 million, with the remainder coming from loans and borrowed money. She also alleged that the fortune teller advised her to borrow money from others and, in some cases, deceive people temporarily in order to obtain funds for further payments. The financial pressure reportedly caused severe stress and suicidal thoughts. Ms Ho said she only began to realise she may have been deceived after renewing her Thai identity card late last year, prompting her to end contact with the fortune teller and seek assistance from authorities. She later filed a complaint at Prawet Police Station but claimed that a person who directed her to police demanded nearly THB130,000 in fees for documents, case follow-up and coordination services. Ms Ho said she never met the person allegedly conducting the rituals and transferred money into five separate bank accounts described as ceremonial accounts before funds were allegedly passed on to others involved. Amarin reported that Saimai Survive founder Ekkapop Luangprasert called on authorities to examine bank accounts, financial transactions and evidence of all transfers to determine whether offences including fraud or public deception had occurred. He also urged investigators to examine allegations that an individual claiming to be a police officer demanded payment for assistance with the case. Picture courtesy of Amarin Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 18 June 2026Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:47:00 +0000A 47-year-old Thai-Hong Kong woman has sought help from the Saimai Survive page after claiming she lost more than THB40 million to a well-known fortune teller over several years. The woman said she was persuaded to pay for rituals, curse removals and spiritual ceremonies, leaving her heavily indebted and at one stage contemplating suicide. Get today's headlines by email The case was presented on 17 June 2026 at the Saimai Survive coordination centre in Bangkok’s Sai Mai district. The woman, identified only as Ms Ho, said she worked for a company in Hong Kong and initially contacted the fortune teller through a Facebook page while experiencing problems in her relationship. According to Ms Ho, the fortune teller accurately predicted several events in her life, including the later death of a relative, which led her to trust the advice completely. Communication then moved to the Line messaging application, where she was encouraged to take part in what was described as white magic rituals. Ms Ho said she was sent “nam man phrai”, or ghost oil, and instructed to perform ceremonies intended to improve her fortunes and reunite her with her partner. After using the oil, she claimed to have recurring dreams involving spirits, which further strengthened her belief in the fortune teller’s powers. The requests for money later escalated into a series of ceremonies allegedly required to remove bad karma, improve her destiny and correct spiritual wrongdoing. She said she was repeatedly warned that failure to complete the rituals could result in declining health, financial ruin or even death. Payments ranged from THB70,000 for ritual offerings to several hundred thousand baht, with some ceremonies costing more than THB1 million. Over the years, Ms Ho used her savings, retirement funds, overseas bank loans and money borrowed from relatives and friends to make payments. She estimated her personal funds amounted to only THB2-3 million, with the remainder coming from loans and borrowed money. She also alleged that the fortune teller advised her to borrow money from others and, in some cases, deceive people temporarily in order to obtain funds for further payments. The financial pressure reportedly caused severe stress and suicidal thoughts. Ms Ho said she only began to realise she may have been deceived after renewing her Thai identity card late last year, prompting her to end contact with the fortune teller and seek assistance from authorities. She later filed a complaint at Prawet Police Station but claimed that a person who directed her to police demanded nearly THB130,000 in fees for documents, case follow-up and coordination services. Ms Ho said she never met the person allegedly conducting the rituals and transferred money into five separate bank accounts described as ceremonial accounts before funds were allegedly passed on to others involved. Amarin reported that Saimai Survive founder Ekkapop Luangprasert called on authorities to examine bank accounts, financial transactions and evidence of all transfers to determine whether offences including fraud or public deception had occurred. He also urged investigators to examine allegations that an individual claiming to be a police officer demanded payment for assistance with the case. Picture courtesy of Amarin Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 18 June 2026 View full articleWed, 17 Jun 2026 21:47:00 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/yala-woman-found-dead-at-thai-cambodian-border-r2367/A 28-year-old woman from Yala province was found dead in a canal along the Thai-Cambodian border after reportedly attempting to escape forced labour in Cambodia. Police said the woman, identified only as Faseeyah, died while trying to cross from Poipet back into Thailand near the Rong Kluea Market border crossing in Sa Kaeo province. Get today's headlines by email Authorities believe Faseeyah had been deceived and sold into illegal labour in Cambodia. She was reportedly among a group attempting to cross the border via Phrom Hod Canal, a narrow but deep waterway connected to areas near the market. Investigators believe she became separated from the others and, as she could not swim, drowned while trying to cross. Thai rangers patrolling the border were alerted and later discovered her body floating in the canal. Officials estimated the body had been in the water for at least three days before rescue workers recovered it and sent it for a post-mortem examination. Faseeyah’s mother, Che Bungo Yusoh, 52, said she had not seen her daughter for six years. Near the end of May, her daughter contacted the family through a messaging application, transferred 4,000 baht to help with household expenses and asked her mother to care for her two sons. At the time, the family did not suspect anything was wrong. Mrs Che Bungo said she does not believe her daughter simply drowned, noting that the mobile phone Faseeyah regularly used was never recovered. Only a newly purchased handset, reportedly intended as a gift for her sons, was found. She also said friends who had previously been in contact with Faseeyah blocked family members and deleted their connections, leaving them unable to obtain further information. According to her mother, Faseeyah had previously worked at a Thai restaurant in Malaysia before marrying a man from Narathiwat. The couple had a son but later divorced. She subsequently remarried a man from Pattani, but the relationship ended during her pregnancy. After giving birth to her second son, she left home around 45 days later to seek work in Bangkok and never returned. The family only learned that she had been working in Cambodia around the time of the Thai-Cambodian border conflict in July last year. They heard her voice for the first time in years in May 2026 and were informed of her death by a foundation. The Bangkokpost reported that authorities are continuing post-mortem procedures as the family prepares to hold a memorial ceremony seven days after her death. Both of Faseeyah’s sons are now being raised by their grandmother. Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Bangkokpost 18 June 2026Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:34:25 +0000A 28-year-old woman from Yala province was found dead in a canal along the Thai-Cambodian border after reportedly attempting to escape forced labour in Cambodia. Police said the woman, identified only as Faseeyah, died while trying to cross from Poipet back into Thailand near the Rong Kluea Market border crossing in Sa Kaeo province. Get today's headlines by email Authorities believe Faseeyah had been deceived and sold into illegal labour in Cambodia. She was reportedly among a group attempting to cross the border via Phrom Hod Canal, a narrow but deep waterway connected to areas near the market. Investigators believe she became separated from the others and, as she could not swim, drowned while trying to cross. Thai rangers patrolling the border were alerted and later discovered her body floating in the canal. Officials estimated the body had been in the water for at least three days before rescue workers recovered it and sent it for a post-mortem examination. Faseeyah’s mother, Che Bungo Yusoh, 52, said she had not seen her daughter for six years. Near the end of May, her daughter contacted the family through a messaging application, transferred 4,000 baht to help with household expenses and asked her mother to care for her two sons. At the time, the family did not suspect anything was wrong. Mrs Che Bungo said she does not believe her daughter simply drowned, noting that the mobile phone Faseeyah regularly used was never recovered. Only a newly purchased handset, reportedly intended as a gift for her sons, was found. She also said friends who had previously been in contact with Faseeyah blocked family members and deleted their connections, leaving them unable to obtain further information. According to her mother, Faseeyah had previously worked at a Thai restaurant in Malaysia before marrying a man from Narathiwat. The couple had a son but later divorced. She subsequently remarried a man from Pattani, but the relationship ended during her pregnancy. After giving birth to her second son, she left home around 45 days later to seek work in Bangkok and never returned. The family only learned that she had been working in Cambodia around the time of the Thai-Cambodian border conflict in July last year. They heard her voice for the first time in years in May 2026 and were informed of her death by a foundation. The Bangkokpost reported that authorities are continuing post-mortem procedures as the family prepares to hold a memorial ceremony seven days after her death. Both of Faseeyah’s sons are now being raised by their grandmother. Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Bangkokpost 18 June 2026 View full articleWed, 17 Jun 2026 21:34:25 +0000