British Teen Found Alive After Thai Jungle Ordeal Surviving on Insects

 

Picture courtesy of eldolce.tv

 

A British teenager, missing for 10 days, has been found alive in a Thai jungle. Surviving on insects and tree bark, Lawrence Stallard Honour, 19, was rescued from Wat Tham Sawan Bandan temple in West Thailand after an intense search operation. The teen vanished near the Thai-Myanmar border while attempting to cross, prompting immediate action from local authorities.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1376111-british-teen-found-alive-after-thai-jungle-ordeal/

Indian Tourist Beaten & Robbed by Group  Inside Pattaya Hotel

 

Picture courtesy of SiamChon

 

An Indian tourist was assaulted and robbed by a woman and two ladyboys inside a central Pattaya hotel late on October 15, 2025. The attack left the victim and a hotel employee injured and police have launched an hunt to track down the suspects. The incident, which was caught on CCTV, has raised fresh concerns about tourist safety in the city.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1376110-indian-tourist-beaten-robbed-by-group- inside-pattaya-hotel/

Bangkok Raid: Foreign-Led Drug Ring Busted at a Barbershop

 

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

Police in Bangkok have dismantled a foreign-led criminal syndicate operating from a barbershop, uncovering a secret drug den. A raid in the Watthana district led to the arrest of eight suspects from countries such as Egypt, Myanmar, Pakistan, Iraq, Afghanistan, and Thailand. Officers discovered the shop was a front, finding drugs and paraphernalia hidden throughout the premises.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1376148-bangkok-raid-foreign-led-drug-ring-busted-at-a-barbershop/

 

UPDATE

Officials Assist Blind German Man After Wife’s Death

 

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod 

 

Officials from the Chachoengsao Office of Social Development and Human Security, together with public health personnel, visited a 69-year-old blind German man on October 15 following the death of his Thai wife, who reportedly took her own life inside their home the previous day. The visit aimed to ensure his safety, welfare, and emotional wellbeing in the wake of the incident.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1375978-blind-german-man-unaware-of-wife’s-death-in-their-home/#findComment-20156990

Intoxicated Foreigner Arrested After Assault in Pattaya
 

Picture courtesy of Workpoint

 

A foreign tourist was arrested late on October 15 after allegedly assaulting a disabled Thai man in the LK Metro area of Pattaya. The incident caused chaos in the popular nightlife zone, drawing the attention of both locals and tourists. Eyewitnesses reported that the man, described as heavily intoxicated, was subdued by locals and security personnel before police arrived.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1376178-intoxicated-foreigner-arrested-after-assault-in-pattaya/

 

Woman Scammed in ‘Foreign Husband’ Match, Loses 30,000 Baht
 

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

 

A 50-year-old Thai woman from Udon Thani lost 30,000 baht after falling victim to a fraudulent matchmaking service claiming to find her a foreign husband. The victim, identified only as Jip, filed a complaint at Mueang Udon Thani Police Station, presenting CCTV footage and other evidence against the suspect. The incident has since drawn public attention as an example of growing online relationship scams targeting women seeking foreign partners.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1376180-woman-scammed-in-‘foreign-husband’-match-loses-30000-baht/

 

Woman Rescued After Spending 3 Days in Parked Car
 

Pictures courtesy of CH7

 

Police and concerned residents rescued a woman believed to be suffering from severe emotional distress after she spent three days inside her parked car on a roadside in Mueang District, Samut Songkhram. The incident was reported on October 15, when 58-year-old Chaiyaphat Weerawat, owner of a nearby PVC pipe shop, alerted police after noticing that a white car had been parked in front of his store since October 13.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1376181-woman-rescued-after-spending-3-days-in-parked-car/

 

Chinese Burglars Caught at Airport After Two-Day Spree
 

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod 

 

Two Chinese nationals were arrested at Suvarnabhumi Airport after a two-day burglary spree targeting homes in Bangkok’s Soranakorn area. The arrest took place on October 16, 2025, at the airport’s Zone 3 car park on the second floor. Police investigators intercepted the suspects, identified as Li, 38 and Xiaowu, 39, as they prepared to board a flight out of Thailand. Officers recovered gold jewellery, Buddhist amulets, Buddha statues, cash and commemorative banknotes believed to have been stolen during the break-ins.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1376182-chinese-burglars-caught-at-airport-after-two-day-spree/

 

Immigration Police Raid Illegal Foreign-Run Hotels on Phangan
 

Picture courtesy of Naewna

 

Surat Thani Immigration officers have arrested eight foreign nationals for illegally operating hotels and businesses on Koh Phangan. The coordinated crackdown, led by local authorities and police, took place on October 15, 2025, targeting unlicensed hospitality operations run by foreigners on the island.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1376183-immigration-police-raid-illegal-foreign-run-hotels-on-phangan/

 

Chinese Nationals Arrested for Viagra Sales & Hostel Operation
 

Picture courtesy of Naewna

 

Two Chinese men were arrested in Bangkok’s Din Daeng district after police discovered they had converted rented houses into illegal hostels and were selling unregistered supplements and Viagra online. The arrests were made on October 16, 2025, following a joint operation by Sutthisan Police, immigration officers, labour officials and Huai Khwang district staff.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1376184-chinese-nationals-arrested-for-viagra-sales-hostel-operation/

 

Suspect Caught for Stealing 93-Year-Old’s Amulets
 

Picture courtesy of SiamChon 

 

Police from Sattahip have arrested a 30-year-old man accused of stealing nine gold-encased Buddhist amulets worth millions from a 93-year-old retired naval officer. The suspect, identified as Worakarn Khaokruawan, was apprehended at a riverside resort in Kanchanaburi on 16 October 2025 after evading authorities following the theft. Authorities reported he had sold the items for personal spending and to impress women.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1376186-suspect-caught-for-stealing-93-year-old’s-amulets/

 

Similan Islands Reopen with Over 2,000 Tourists on First Day
 

Pictures courtesy of Tourism Authority of Thailand (Phang Nga Office)

 

On 15 October 2025, the Similan Islands officially reopened to tourists after a five-month closure, welcoming 2,017 visitors on the first day. The opening included visits to Island 8 (Ko Similan) and Island 4 (Ko Miang) in Similan National Park, Phang Nga province. The waters were calm, skies clear and the islands’ renowned white sandy beaches, turquoise seas and unique rock formations attracted large numbers of mainly international tourists.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1376188-similan-islands-reopen-with-over-2000-tourists-on-first-day/

 

Cyber Police Arrest Loan Shark with Monthly Turnover Over 1M
 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

 

Cyber police in Nakhon Sawan have arrested a 33-year-old man running an illegal high-interest loan operation with a reported monthly turnover exceeding 1 million baht. The suspect, Mr. Chinawat, admitted he previously worked as a debt collector and turned to running his own business after seeing the profits.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1376189-cyber-police-arrest-loan-shark-with-monthly-turnover-over-1m/

 

Foreign Motorcyclist Injured in Pattaya Collision
 

Pictures courtesy of TMN

 

The Sawang Boriboon Pattaya Rescue Centre received a report of a motorcycle collision, at 07:00 on 16 October 2025, on South Pattaya Road. Police and emergency responders arrived to find a grey Honda Scoopy (registration from Chonburi) with damage and a male foreign rider unconscious with bleeding from head wounds. The casualty was given first aid before being transported to Pattaya City Hospital. The rider’s identity and nationality remain unknown due to his injuries and unconscious condition.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1376190-foreign-motorcyclist-injured-in-pattaya-collision/

 

Police Bust Vietnamese Selling 50,000 Fake Electronics
 

Pictures courtesy of Naewna

 

Thailand’s Economic Crime Suppression Division (ECD) has raided a warehouse in Bangkok, seizing over 50,000 counterfeit products sold online under fake promotions. The operation, carried out on October 16, 2025, targeted a Vietnamese national allegedly impersonating major retailers Studio 7 and BaNaNA on Facebook to sell “shock deal” items to unsuspecting consumers.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1376192-police-bust-vietnamese-selling-50000-fake-electronics/

 

Stepfather Confesses to Brutal Killing of Mentally Ill Man

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod

 

A 58-year-old stepfather has confessed to fatally assaulting his 43-year-old stepson, who had a long-standing mental illness, in Kalasin province. The victim, Mr. Chatchawan, was found dead outside a home in Mueang District on the evening of 15 October 2025, suffering blunt-force trauma to the head and face.

 

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1376194-stepfather-confesses-to-brutal-killing-of-mentally-ill-man/

 

Thai Tourism Targets Big Spenders with Luxury Focus

 

File photo for reference only.

 

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has shifted its strategy towards luxury travel and wellness tourism, aiming to attract high-spending visitors rather than promoting budget tour packages. This move comes as emerging destinations like Vietnam draw tourists seeking affordable prices. TAT's focus will be on high-value visitors, offering unique experiences and sustainability-focused tourism products.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1376203-thai-tourism-targets-big-spenders-with-luxury-focus/

PM Anutin Faces Scrutiny Over Stance on Scam Network Crackdown

 

Picture courtesy of THai PBS WORLD

 

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul is under fire as People's Party MP Chutiphong Pipoppinyo questions his commitment to cracking down on transnational scam networks in Cambodia. Pipoppinyo highlighted the PM's reluctance to act against key figures allegedly linked to these scams residing in Thailand.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1376226-pm-anutin-faces-scrutiny-over-stance-on-scam-network-crackdown/

 

Model lured to Thailand killed in organ-harvesting scam

 

Vera Kravtsova, 26, originally from Belarus, flew to Bangkok to secure what she believed would be a modelling job

A 26-year-old Belarusian woman, Vera Kravtsova, was reportedly lured to Thailand with the promise of a modelling job, only to be trafficked across the border to Myanmar, enslaved in a cyber-scam compound, and later killed for her organs.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1376211-model-lured-to-thailand-killed-in-organ-harvesting-scam-summary/

 

Thailand Workers Face Pressure with Long Hours and Limited Leave

 

File photo for reference only

 

According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Thailand ranks third globally for the longest working hours, with 46.7% of Thai workers clocking over 48 hours weekly. This figure significantly surpasses the global average of 40 hours. The country's culture of "presenteeism" exacerbates the situation, as numerous employees work while ill, fearing judgment or burdening peers.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1376245-thailand-workers-face-pressure-with-long-hours-and-limited-leave/

 

DSI Confirms Clean Record for Ben Mauerberger

 

Benjamin Mauerberger | Photo via Facebook/ เจาะลึกทั่วไทย Inside Thailand

 

The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) in Thailand has confirmed that a South African national, Benjamin Mauerberger, also known as Ben Smith, has no record of legal violations. Mauerberger was accused of being involved with a call centre scam gang in Cambodia. The confirmation follows attention drawn by Thai MPs Rangsiman Rome and Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn on September 30, suggesting his connections with influential figures in Thailand and Cambodia.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1376246-dsi-confirms-clean-record-for-ben-mauerberger/

 

Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Ranks 12th in Global Connectivity

 

Photo via Facebook/ AOT Official

 

Suvarnabhumi International Airport in Bangkok has been ranked 12th among the world’s 50 most connected airports in 2025, according to the Official Airline Guide (OAG). Airports of Thailand (AOT) highlighted Suvarnabhumi's position in the Global Airport Megahubs category, further cementing its status as a key player in international connectivity. The airport is also fifth in the Asia-Pacific region for top international hubs.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1376247-bangkok’s-suvarnabhumi-ranks-12th-in-global-connectivity/

 

Thailand Ranks 41st as Netherlands Tops Pension Index

 

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The Mercer CFA Institute Global Pension Index 2025 highlights the Netherlands as the leading country for pension systems, maintaining its top spot for yet another year. In contrast, Thailand has been placed 41st among 52 regions, indicating persistent challenges with retirement income adequacy and sustainability. Singapore notably advances to the A category for the first time, showcasing significant improvements.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1376248-thailand-ranks-41st-as-netherlands-tops-pension-index/

 

Thailand Reminds Online Earners to Declare All Income

 

Photo courtesy of Business Today

 

Thailand's Revenue Department has issued a reminder for all earners, including online influencers and sellers, to declare and pay taxes on their income. This announcement comes in light of increased scrutiny following singer Ratchanok “Janey” Suwannaket's significant earnings from livestream sales. The department aims to enforce equitable tax practices without focusing on specific professions.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1376252-thailand-reminds-online-earners-to-declare-all-income/

 

Fifth Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge to Open in December

 

File photo for reference only

 

The Fifth Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, connecting Bueng Kan in Thailand with Bolikhamxay in Laos, is set to open in December, signaling enhanced connectivity between the two nations. Transport Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn announced this initiative following Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s official visit to Laos. The new bridge is expected to facilitate economic activities and improve transport logistics across the region.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1376253-fifth-thai-lao-friendship-bridge-to-open-in-december/

 

Thai-Cambodian Border to Get High-Security Fence

 

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

 

The Royal Thai Army (RTA) has unveiled plans to construct a high-security fence along the Thai-Cambodian border to enhance national security and limit illegal crossings. The project, managed by the Army Development Command, will feature a reinforced concrete fence with steel mesh and concertina wire, costing 8.66 million baht per kilometer. This initiative aims to tackle issues like trafficking and smuggling, although its substantial cost has sparked public debate.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1376254-thai-cambodian-border-to-get-high-security-fence/

 

Pet Owner Seeks New Home for Huskies Amid Border Tensions

 

Photo courtesy of Thairath

 

A pet owner in Sisaket is urgently seeking a new home for her two Siberian Huskies due to fears of escalating conflict near the Thai-Cambodian border. On October 17, 39-year-old Pairin Yodkhammee, residing in Ban Non Sawang village, made the difficult decision to put her dogs up for adoption. The village is located just seven kilometers from the tense border area.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1376257-pet-owner-seeks-new-home-for-huskies-amid-border-tensions/

Giant Python Found Dead After Swallowing Cat Whole

 

Picture courtesy of The Pattaya News

 

A three-meter-long python was found dead in Pattaya after swallowing a cat, alarming residents who quickly alerted local rescue teams. The incident took place on October 16 at Soi Na Kluea 14, where the snake was discovered in a ditch with a noticeably swollen midsection. When authorities arrived, they confirmed the snake had consumed a full-grown cat and captured it without resistance, but the python died shortly thereafter.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1376258-giant-python-found-dead-after-swallowing-cat-whole/

 

Parasailing Assistant Saves Tourist as Storm Hits Phuket

 

Photo via Facebook/ เหยี่ยวข่าว ภูเก็ต Newshawk Phuket

 

A parasailing assistant in Phuket heroically saved a tourist after a boat capsized near Kata Beach during a sudden storm on October 16. As the boat overturned, the assistant, while airborne with the tourist, swiftly unbuckled his harness and plunged into the sea. This courageous act lightened the weight for the tourist, enabling a safe glide towards the shore.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1376259-parasailing-assistant-saves-tourist-as-storm-hits-phuket/

 

Chinese Duo Arrested for Bangkok Burglary Spree

 

Picture courtesy of KhaoSod

 

Two Chinese nationals were detained at Suvarnabhumi Airport on alleged charges of a burglary spree across multiple Bangkok districts. Identified as 38-year-old Lin Li and 39-year-old Xiaowu Liu, the suspects reportedly stole items exceeding 1 million baht in total value, targeting residences in Don Mueang and Saimai. Their arrest followed a coordinated operation by Don Mueang Police, with the recovery of numerous stolen goods in the airport’s parking area.

 

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1376261-chinese-duo-arrested-for-bangkok-burglary-spree/