German Man Joins Thai Protest Against Border Reopening

 

Pictures courtesy of Amarin

 

A German national married to a Thai woman joined around 50 people in Sa Kaeo province on 13 September to oppose the reopening of a border checkpoint with Cambodia. The group gathered at Ban Nong Chan, waving Thai flags and holding placards to call for the cancellation of the 1993–1994 Memoranda of Understanding (MOU 43–44) and the adoption of the 1:50,000 map. They shouted “Do not open the border” and sang the Thai national anthem to stress their demand for full sovereignty.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373025-german-man-joins-thai-protest-against-border-reopening/

Afternoon Alcohol Sales Ban Still in Force

 

File photo

 

The Disease Control Department has confirmed that the three-hour daily ban on alcohol sales remains active, following widespread confusion among vendors and customers. Shops across the country are still prohibited from selling alcoholic beverages between 2pm and 5pm. Exceptions apply only to designated venues such as international airports, hotels, and licensed service establishments including bars.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1372954-afternoon-alcohol-sales-ban-still-in-force/

 

BoT to Improve Account Freeze Procedures After Errors

 

File picture for reference only.

 

The Bank of Thailand (BoT) has pledged to tighten its procedures for freezing and unfreezing suspected bank accounts after technical issues and police instructions led to several customers’ balances being displayed as negative. The central bank said the problems caused confusion and distress for affected individuals, but measures are being introduced to prevent a recurrence.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373020-bot-to-improve-account-freeze-procedures-after-errors/

Merchants in Thailand Shun Digital Payments Amid Account Freezes

 

Picture courtesy of Sanook

 

Merchants across Thailand are opting for cash transactions as account freezes linked to mule accounts spread. This change follows numerous reports of unexpected account freezings, which alarmed businesses and consumers. A Facebook page named “Artrot” highlighted that regular individuals are withdrawing cash due to the fear of sudden account freezes, impacting their trust in digital transactions.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373020-bot-to-improve-account-freeze-procedures-after-errors/#findComment-20086300

Three Schoolchildren Drown in Udon Thani River
 

Pictures courtesy of Naewna

 

Three 13-year-old schoolchildren drowned while two others survived after a group of five friends went swimming in the Songkhram River on 13 September. The incident happened near a bridge between Ban Muang, Ban Dung district, Udon Thani province and Ban Huai Sai, Huai Lua subdistrict, Ban Muang district, Sakon Nakhon province. Rescue teams later recovered the bodies after hours of searching, while relatives mourned at the riverbank.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373062-three-schoolchildren-drown-in-udon-thani-river/

 

Teen Cadet Killed in Truck Crash at Phayao Junction
 

Picture courtesy of Naewna

 

An 18-year-old student was killed when a trailer truck collided with his motorcycle at a red-light junction in Chun district, Phayao province. The accident occurred at around 07:00 on 14 September at the R3A road intersection in Ban Pong Sanuk, Huai Yang Kham subdistrict. Police confirmed that the victim died instantly at the scene from severe head injuries.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373063-teen-cadet-killed-in-truck-crash-at-phayao-junction/

 

Myanmar Woman Fatally Stabbed Outside Rented Room in Lopburi
 

Picture courtesy of Daily News

 

A 29-year-old Myanmar woman was fatally stabbed outside her rented room in Phatthana Nikhom district, Lopburi province, late on 13 September. Police reported that the victim, identified as Ms Sinme, was attacked in front of her single-storey rental unit near a chicken processing factory. She died at the scene from multiple stab wounds to the chest and left arm.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373065-myanmar-woman-fatally-stabbed-outside-rented-room-in-lopburi/

 

Military Receives Excavator to Destroy PMN-2 Landmines
 

Picture courtesy of Daily News

 

The 67th class of the National Defence College (VPor.67) handed over a modified excavator designed to destroy PMN-2 landmines in complex terrain along the Thai-Cambodian border on 14 September. The vehicle was delivered to Lt Gen Siraphop Supavanich, commander of the Royal Thai Army’s Engineering Department, to support border security and reduce risks to personnel during patrols.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373066-military-receives-excavator-to-destroy-pmn-2-landmines/

 

Explosion at Lamphun Asphalt Plant Kills One, Injures Two
 

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod.

 

An explosion at an asphalt plant in Lamphun province killed one worker and injured two others on the morning of 14 September 2025. The blast occurred at 08:45 at the company’s asphalt facility in Moo 2, Ban Pha Phlu, Pa Phlu subdistrict, Ban Hong district. Thick black smoke rose into the sky as flames engulfed the plant, prompting an urgent emergency response.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373068-explosion-at-lamphun-asphalt-plant-kills-one-injures-two/

 

Pattaya Police Drill for Active Shooter Scenario
 

Picture courtesy of สายข่าวพัทยา

 

Police in Pattaya have staged an emergency response drill to prepare for potential active shooter incidents at a major hotel. The exercise, held at the Royal Opal Theater of the Royal Cliff Hotels Group, simulated evacuation and defensive responses under the “Run, Hide, Fight” approach. The drill aimed to boost readiness and reassure hotel staff on how to respond in the event of a real attack.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373069-pattaya-police-drill-for-active-shooter-scenario/

 

Pickup Crashes in Trat, Ice and Drug Gear Uncovered
 

Picture courtesy of Amarin

 

A pickup truck driver, lost control on a curve in Trat province, crashing into a barrier before overturning into a roadside canal on 14 September 2025. One woman was trapped inside, while three men escaped, but were also injured. Rescue workers found crystal methamphetamine (“ice”) and drug paraphernalia inside the wrecked vehicle.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373071-pickup-crashes-in-trat-ice-and-drug-gear-uncovered/

 

Stepfather Confesses to Killing Drug-Using Stepson in Udon Thani
 

Pictures courtesy of Workpoint

 

A 35-year-old man, Mr. Thongsak, was found dead at his home in Ban Muang, Ban Dung District, Udon Thani, on 13 September 2025. Initial reports suggested he had been attacked with a sharp and blunt object, suffering severe head and facial injuries, with blood found at the scene near his motorbike. Police initially treated the case as a possible assault by an unknown assailant.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373073-stepfather-confesses-to-killing-drug-using-stepson-in-udon-thani/

 

Drug Crisis in Phuket’s Rawai Tackled with ‘6A’ Strategy

 

Picture courtesy of Matichon

 

Pol Gen Thawi Sodsong, Minister of Justice, visited the Rawai sea gypsy community in Phuket on 13 September 2025 to address the escalating drug crisis. The minister met with community leaders, officials and residents to discuss solutions after reports of widespread drug use among youth, including cases involving children as young as 13. Authorities have arrested more than 70 small-scale drug dealers in the community of around 960 residents.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373075-drug-crisis-in-phuket’s-rawai-tackled-with-‘6a’-strategy/

 

Electrician Dies After Being Electrocuted on Lamp Post
 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

 

An electrician was killed after being electrocuted while working on a roadside lamp post in Ayutthaya Province on 14 September 2025. Rescue workers attempted to resuscitate the victim, identified as 47-year-old Niphan, but he was pronounced dead shortly after being taken to hospital. The accident occurred around 11.40 in Ban Thao Subdistrict, Sena District, near a local college.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373076-electrician-dies-after-being-electrocuted-on-lamp-post/

 

Passenger Boats Destroyed in Wat Ratchasingkhon Fire

Picture courtesy of Daily News

 

A fire broke out at Wat Ratchasingkhon pier in Bangkok’s Bang Kho Laem district on the evening of 14 September 2025, destroying two passenger boats on the Chao Phraya River. Another vessel moored at the pier also caught fire but was brought under control. No injuries or fatalities were reported.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373077-passenger-boats-destroyed-in-wat-ratchasingkhon-fire/

 

Thai Woman Arrested Over Chinese Scam Operation
 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

 

Police in Chonburi have arrested a 26-year-old woman accused of being a key figure in a cross-border fraud network targeting victims in Northeast Thailand. The arrest, carried out on 14 September 2025 by Khon Kaen Provincial Police, followed a warrant issued by Maha Sarakham Provincial Court. Authorities said the suspect, identified as Ms Monthatip from Ubon Ratchathani, faces charges including fraud conspiracy and computer crimes.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373079-thai-woman-arrested-over-chinese-scam-operation/

 

Thailand Lauds US Crackdown on Southeast Asian Scam Networks

 

Picture courtesy of THai PBS World

 

Thailand has voiced strong support for new measures by the US Department of the Treasury targeting a scam network in Southeast Asia. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs highlighted that these measures align with Thailand's ongoing efforts to combat transnational crime. This cooperation underscores the commitment to counter threats from scam centres that affect people across the region, including Americans.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373083-thailand-lauds-us-crackdown-on-southeast-asian-scam-networks/

 

Thais Doubt Anutin's Govt Will Last Beyond Four Months

 

Anutin Charnvirakul. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit)

 

Most Thai voters are sceptical about the survival of Anutin Charnvirakul's minority government, expecting it to last no more than four months. A survey conducted by Nida Poll on September 8–9 with 1,310 respondents revealed a lack of confidence amidst pressure from the People’s Party.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373091-thais-doubt-anutins-govt-will-last-beyond-four-months/

 

UPDATE
Two Dead After Asphalt Tank Explosion in Lamphun

 

Pictures courtesy of Amarin

 

An explosion at an asphalt heater oil tank in Lamphun has claimed a second life, bringing the death toll to two, with another seriously injured. The incident occurred at a construction factory in Moo 2, Ban Plu Subdistrict, Ban Hong District. Authorities are preparing to file charges against the factory owner and other responsible parties.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1373068-explosion-at-lamphun-asphalt-plant-kills-one-injures-two/#findComment-20087371

 

Thailand Awaits Details on Alcohol Advertising Restrictions

 

Photo via The Drinks Business

 

Uncertainty surrounds the enforcement of Thailand’s revised Alcoholic Beverage Control Act as businesses brace for new advertising restrictions set to commence on November 8, 2025. The Department of Disease Control under the Public Health Ministry announced the date, with industry operators remaining confused over key elements, especially concerning advertising rules. Pending ministerial notifications have left businesses apprehensive about compliance with the act.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373128-thailand-awaits-details-on-alcohol-advertising-restrictions/

 

Thailand Ups Flight Delay Compensation Rules

 

File photo for reference only

 

Thailand is set to increase compensation for airline passengers facing long delays and cancellations. Under new regulations by the Civil Aviation Committee, effective November 20, 2025, passengers on domestic flights experiencing delays over five hours will receive 1,200 baht, doubling the previous amount. If a flight is canceled, the compensation rises from 1,200 baht to 1,500 baht.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373129-thailand-ups-flight-delay-compensation-rules/

 

Thaksin Shinawatra Receives Family Visit in Prison

 

Photo courtesy of Thai PBS

 

Thaksin Shinawatra, serving a year-long sentence at Khlong Prem Central Prison, received a visit from his family and lawyer after completing the mandatory quarantine period. His lawyer, Winyat Chartmontri, facilitated the visit by arranging necessary documents. Visitors included his ex-wife, Khunying Potjaman na Pombejra, and daughters, Paetongtarn Shinawatra and Pinthongtha Kunakornwong.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373130-thaksin-shinawatra-receives-family-visit-in-prison/

Thai PM Anutin Urges Action on Strong Baht Currency

 

File photo for reference only

 

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced on Monday the necessity for urgent action regarding the strong baht currency which has raised concerns among Thai businesses. Following a meeting with the Federation of Thai Industries, Anutin indicated plans to engage further discussions on the matter later in the day. He aims to address economic challenges as he finalizes his new cabinet lineup, pending royal approval this week.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373131-thai-pm-anutin-urges-action-on-strong-baht-currency/

 

Thailand Screens Nearly One Million Fake News Messages

 

File photo for reference only

 

The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DES) has monitored and screened nearly one million fake online messages through its Anti-Fake News Centre between September 5 and September 11. Of these, 807 fake messages required verification, stirring concerns over various issues. The assessment primarily involved social listening, which accounted for 785 of the tip-offs, with the remaining reports coming through platforms like Line and Facebook.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373133-thailand-screens-nearly-one-million-fake-news-messages/

 

Thailand Expands Rainmaking to Combat Nationwide Drought

 

Photo courtesy of VN Express

 

Thailand, leading globally in weather modification, is broadening its royal rainmaking program, said Rachen Silparaya, Director-General of the Department of Royal Rainmaking and Agricultural Aviation. This initiative aims to alleviate drought and bolster agriculture across the country. Despite its global recognition, Thailand's method remains challenging to replicate overseas due to technical requirements and the need for optimal weather conditions.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373134-thailand-expands-rainmaking-to-combat-nationwide-drought/

 

IKEA Thailand Launches Price Cuts Amid Economic Challenges

 

IKEA Bangna | Photo via DMS Wiki/Commons

 

IKEA Thailand is tackling economic challenges by reducing prices and unveiling its IKEA for Business programme. This initiative aims to cater to the increasing demand from hotels, offices, property developers, and SMEs. Despite economic and political hurdles, the company achieved only a 1% increase in total sales for fiscal 2025 but has set a goal of 6% growth for fiscal 2026 through enhanced investment in price reductions.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373136-ikea-thailand-launches-price-cuts-amid-economic-challenges/

 

Thailand Backs UN Resolution for Two-State Palestine Solution

 

Photo courtesy of Thai PBS

 

Thailand has voted in favor of a United Nations General Assembly resolution supporting a two-state solution for Palestine. This decision aligns Thailand with 142 other UN members advocating for Palestinian statehood and a peaceful resolution. The vote emphasizes Thailand's firm stance, reflecting a long-standing diplomatic position.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373138-thailand-backs-un-resolution-for-two-state-palestine-solution/

 

Elephant at Terminal 21 Pattaya: Immediate Action Taken

 

Picture courtesy of Pattaya Mail

 

An elephant wandering near Terminal 21 Pattaya with its mahout caused a stir this week, drawing crowds and prompting immediate action from city officials. The unusual sight of the elephant selling sugarcane attracted curious onlookers but also raised alarms over safety risks to both the animal and the public. Municipal officers swiftly escorted the elephant away, ensuring it was not a danger.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373139-elephant-at-terminal-21-pattaya-immediate-action-taken/

 

Call to Protect Thai Industries from Cheap Chinese Imports

 

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) has urged the incoming industry minister to focus on shielding local industries from a surge of low-cost Chinese imports. Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana, poised to become the new minister following Anutin Charnvirakul's appointment as Prime Minister, is currently the top contender. The FTI, led by Kriengkrai Thiennukul, emphasizes the need for continued efforts against imports that fail to meet international environmental standards.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373140-call-to-protect-thai-industries-from-cheap-chinese-imports/

 

Bomb Squad Uncovers 2,470 Mines Near Thai-Cambodia Border

 

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

Bomb disposal units in Thailand have discovered 2,470 mines and unexploded munitions along the border with Cambodia. This clearance effort follows a ceasefire agreement initiated on July 29, aimed at reducing tensions and potential harm in the region. Between August 10 and September 11, searches in Phu Makua, Chong An Ma, and Chong Bok revealed various explosives including anti-personnel mines, anti-tank mines, and artillery shells.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373142-bomb-squad-uncovers-2470-mines-near-thai-cambodia-border/