Drink-Drive This New Year? Thai Courts Say Expect No Mercy

 

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The Court of Justice has warned motorists against driving under the influence during the New Year's holiday, highlighting the severity of penalties involved. Court spokesman Suriyan Hongwilai noted an annual increase in cases during this period, particularly for violating the Land Traffic Act, with drunk driving being a primary concern. Driving while intoxicated by alcohol or substances is strictly prohibited under Section 43(2), and offenders face serious consequences.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383151-drink-drive-this-new-year-thai-courts-say-expect-no-mercy/

Extended Train Services for Bangkok New Year Celebration

Photo courtesy of The Thaiger

 

Bangkok's transport system is extending service hours for New Year's Eve 2025 to facilitate safe and smooth travel as residents and visitors celebrate at major landmarks. The Ministry of Transport has partnered with mass transit operators to run the electric train systems until 2:00 AM on January 1, 2026, under the 'H.N.Y 2569' campaign. These changes are expected to enhance travel convenience during the festivities.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383213-extended-train-services-for-bangkok-new-year-celebration/

From Oil to Inmates: Thai Party Floats Offshore Prison Plan

 

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The United Thai Nation Party, led by Atthawit Suwannapakdee, has sparked a heated debate by proposing to convert abandoned oil rigs into offshore prisons in the Gulf of Thailand. Branded by social media as the “Azkaban prison,” this initiative aims to use existing resources for high-security detention, forming a significant part of their campaign for the upcoming election on 8th February.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383146-from-oil-to-inmates-thai-party-floats-offshore-prison-plan/

Thailand's New Law: Five Behaviors Now Count as Harassment

 

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The recent amendment to Thailand's Criminal Code, effective December 30, 2025, now includes a broader range of behaviors under sexual harassment, encompassing verbal, gestural, stalking, and online actions. The law aims to address increasing awareness of personal rights with tougher penalties for offenders, as published in the Royal Gazette. This change acknowledges the evolving understanding of harassment beyond just physical contact, ensuring stricter consequences for actions causing distress or fear.

 

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383206-thailands-new-law-five-behaviors-now-count-as-harassment/

Thailand Delays Release of Cambodian Soldiers Over Drone Claims

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Thailand has postponed the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers, citing breaches in the newly established ceasefire. This move follows reports of 250 unauthorised Cambodian drones spotted in contested border areas, which heightens the tension amidst ongoing efforts to solidify peace. The ceasefire, originally aimed at mending Thai-Cambodian relations, has encountered obstacles threatening its stability.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383232-thailand-delays-release-of-cambodian-soldiers-over-drone-claims/

Chinese Tourist Reports Cash Theft in Pattaya

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

A Chinese tourist has filed a police complaint in Pattaya after reporting the theft of an amount of cash from his resort room in the early hours of December 30, 2025. The incident prompted an immediate police response, with one suspect questioned and detained as officers continue efforts to locate a second individual believed to be involved.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383233-chinese-tourist-reports-cash-theft-in-pattaya/

Teacher Accused of Hitting Pupil in Udon Thani

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A primary school teacher in Udon Thani province is accused of physically assaulting a pupil, leaving the child with a nosebleed and raising serious concerns among parents and authorities. The incident allegedly involved a newly qualified male teacher striking a seven-year-old boy in the face, with two other pupils reportedly punished in a similar manner. The child’s family says the incident has caused ongoing physical symptoms and emotional distress.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383235-teacher-accused-of-hitting-pupil-in-udon-thani/

Containers Placed at Nong Chan Border in New Year Gesture

Pictures courtesy of MGR

Thai troops have installed 60 shipping containers along the border at Ban Nong Chan in Sa Kaeo province, formally marking the area in line with the 1:50,000 map and declaring the move a New Year gift to the Thai people and local residents. The containers were placed after Thai forces reclaimed the area from Cambodia, with the Thai national flag raised to signal control and the delineation of territory. The action has had an immediate symbolic impact for villagers in Ban Nong Chan, reinforcing Thailand’s claim over the area.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383237-containers-placed-at-nong-chan-border-in-new-year-gesture/

Four-Month-Old Baby Dies as Pickup Overturns on Mountain Road

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A four-month-old baby has died and three family members were injured after a pickup truck overturned on a steep mountain road in Phitsanulok province while travelling home for the New Year holiday. The crash occurred at 9.40am on 30 December 2025 on Khao Khom Ma Road, a shortcut route linking Chat Trakan district in Phitsanulok with Thong Saen Khan district in Uttaradit. The incident left the parents and surviving child in shock at the scene.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383238-four-month-old-baby-dies-as-pickup-overturns-on-mountain-road/

Cleaner Detained After Disinfectant Found in Baby’s Bottle

Pictures courtesy of Matichon

A daily-hire house cleaner has been detained for questioning after a Thai family alleged that disinfectant was added to their baby’s milk bottle, an incident that prompted hospital treatment for the infant and a police complaint. The case, which surfaced on social media, led to the cleaner being detained and questioned by police following an appearance on the television programme “Hone Krasae” on 30 December. The baby was taken to hospital as a precaution, where doctors confirmed the child was safe but ordered 24 hours of close observation.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383239-cleaner-detained-after-disinfectant-found-in-babys-bottle/

Three Injured in Sai Mai Shophouse Fire in Early Hours

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A fire broke out at a four-storey shophouse selling mattresses and furniture in Bangkok’s Sai Mai district, injuring three people who jumped from the second floor to escape the blaze. The incident was reported at around 12:10 a.m. on Dec. 30, prompting an emergency response from firefighters and police. A man and two women suffered leg injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383240-three-injured-in-sai-mai-shophouse-fire-in-early-hours/

One Dead & Ten Injured in Multi-Vehicle Crash at Junction

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A road crash at a traffic light junction in Amnat Charoen province left one person dead and ten others injured after a pickup truck crashed into several stationary vehicles. The collision occurred in the early afternoon of 29 December 2025, just one day before Thailand’s annual New Year road safety campaign known as the “Seven Dangerous Days”, highlighting ongoing concerns about traffic accidents during the holiday period.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383242-one-dead-ten-injured-in-multi-vehicle-crash-at-junction/

Ang Sila Mayor Orders Closure of Villa Built Over Sea

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The mayor of Ang Sila municipality has ordered the immediate closure of a pool villa after officials found it had been built encroaching into the sea and was operating without proper authorisation, directly affecting its ability to accept guests during the New Year period. The action halts all use of the property, which had been marketed online as a high-end seaside retreat costing tens of thousands of baht per night.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383243-ang-sila-mayor-orders-closure-of-villa-built-over-sea/

CIB Raids Firm Over Modified TV Boxes Breaching Copyrights

Pictures courtesy of CIB

The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has raided a company in Nonthaburi for allegedly modifying digital television boxes to illegally distribute copyrighted films, seizing thousands of devices believed to be intended for unlawful commercial use. The operation resulted in the confiscation of a large quantity of Android TV boxes and the launch of a formal investigation into those responsible, highlighting the scale of suspected copyright infringement affecting the film industry.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383244-cib-raids-firm-over-modified-tv-boxes-breaching-copyrights/

CAAT Steps up Aviation Safety Checks During Holiday Surge

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Thailand’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT) has increased the frequency of aircraft and flight operation inspections during the festive period, responding to a surge in flights and passenger demand, with the immediate impact being tighter safety oversight across domestic aviation operations to ensure safe and reliable travel. The measures are intended to maintain high safety standards while accommodating increased flight schedules and seat capacity during the New Year holiday period.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383246-caat-steps-up-aviation-safety-checks-during-holiday-surge/

Police Smash Illegal Factory Rebranding Expired Milk for Sale

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Consumer Protection Police have dismantled an illegal factory accused of altering expiry dates on expired milk cartons and selling them online, seizing more than 13,000 items valued at over 1.5 million baht. The operation took place on 30 December 2025 in Hua Hin district, Prachuap Khiri Khan province, and was ordered by Police Major General Kongkrit Lertsittikul, commander of the Consumer Protection Police Division (CPPD).

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383249-police-smash-illegal-factory-rebranding-expired-milk-for-sale/

Navy Seizes Tanker With 10,000 Litres of Diesel

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Thai naval authorities have seized a tanker carrying about 10,000 litres of diesel after it was found operating without identification systems in the Gulf of Thailand, prompting investigations into possible fuel smuggling and labour violations. The vessel, M/T PHOENIX, was intercepted during a routine patrol and escorted to Sattahip for detailed checks, with eight crew members taken into custody for questioning.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383252-navy-seizes-tanker-with-10000-litres-of-diesel/

Six Myanmar Workers Killed in Pathum Thani Canal Crash

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Six Myanmar nationals were killed when a pickup truck crashed through a roadside barrier and plunged into a canal in Thanyaburi district, Pathum Thani, late Tuesday night at around 10pm. The incident prompted an immediate rescue effort by local residents, who entered the water to help those trapped. Seven people were pulled from the canal alive, while emergency services confirmed multiple fatalities at the scene.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383255-six-myanmar-workers-killed-in-pathum-thani-canal-crash/

Thailand Releases 18 Cambodian Prisoners After Ceasefire

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Thailand has released 18 Cambodian prisoners, after a continuous 72-hour ceasefire passed without clashes, marking a significant step in easing recent border tensions. The transfer took place at 10.00 am on 31 December 2025 at the permanent Ban Phakkat border checkpoint in Pong Nam Ron district, Chanthaburi province. The Cambodian soldiers had been held by Thai authorities for 155 days prior to their release.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383265-thailand-releases-18-cambodian-prisoners-after-ceasefire/

8 Foreign Sex Workers Arrested for Soliciting on Pattaya Beach

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Chon Buri Immigration officers arrested eight foreign sex workers on New Year's Eve at Pattaya Beach Road. The arrests were made following reports of these individuals aggressively soliciting tourists, impacting the city's tourism reputation. The operation, led by Pol. Maj. Kittiphat Hongchuwech, involved an undercover agent who confirmed the illegal activities before officers intervened.

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383283-8-foreign-sex-workers-arrested-for-soliciting-on-pattaya-beach/

Naval Officer Accused of Rape, Leaves Woman Naked on Car

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A Thai naval officer paid 180,000 baht to a 23-year-old woman following her accusation of rape and being left on the trunk of his mini bus in Chon Buri. The woman filed a police complaint on December 30, recounting the incident that allegedly occurred in the early hours of December 28. She reported that the man, identified only as a naval officer, assaulted her after a night out.

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383288-naval-officer-accused-of-rape-leaves-woman-naked-on-car/

Surge in Tourists Causes Congestion at Trat's Ferry Terminal

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Tourist activity in Trat province has surged as the New Year Festival kicks off, bringing significant traffic congestion to the Laem Ngop Ferry Terminal. On December 30, 2025, a substantial number of both Thai and international tourists, traveling by car and motorcycle, queued to purchase ferry tickets to Koh Chang, resulting in a traffic build-up over a kilometer long. This congestion is being managed by local police and viewed positively by business operators as a sign of economic revival.

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383290-surge-in-tourists-causes-congestion-at-trats-ferry-terminal/

Bangkok Pet Rules: Key Info Owners Need Before Deadline

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Bangkok is preparing for new pet regulations set to start on January 10, impacting pet owners across the capital. These rules include mandatory registration of all pets, microchipping of dogs and cats, and limitations on the number of pets per household. The initiative aims to address the growing stray animal population and enhance accountability among pet owners.

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383292-bangkok-pet-rules-key-info-owners-need-before-deadline/

Bangkok Duo Arrested for Impersonating Officers in Ransom Plot

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Two men were arrested in Bangkok for allegedly impersonating undercover officers to kidnap a Chinese national, demanding a $63,300 ransom. The suspects, Watcharapon Pimpila, 24, and Japhing Sae-Liu, 23, were caught at a mansion in the Pracha Rat Bamphen area. Authorities confiscated tactical gear, including a BB handgun and other items used in the alleged crime.

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383293-bangkok-duo-arrested-for-impersonating-officers-in-ransom-plot/

Bangkok Reveals 12 Venues for 2026 New Year Celebrations

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The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has announced 12 locations for the 2026 New Year countdown events. These celebrations will feature a variety of activities, including fireworks, concerts, and unique attractions at key city sites. Residents and tourists are set to enjoy vibrant festivities planned across the city.

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383294-bangkok-reveals-12-venues-for-2026-new-year-celebrations/

Thailand CIB Highlights 2025’s Major Criminal Cases

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Thailand's Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has showcased ten significant criminal cases from 2025, many involving serious damage to lives, property, and public confidence. The bureau revealed that it handled 29,413 cases throughout the year, averaging over 80 arrests daily. Among the top cases were probes into monastic scandals, financial scams, and organised crime networks.

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383295-thailand-cib-highlights-2025s-major-criminal-cases/

29 Killed in Road Accidents on Day One of Dangerous Week

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Thailand recorded 198 road accidents on December 30, 2025, as part of the New Year travel crackdown, resulting in 29 deaths and 190 injuries. The report was shared by the Road Safety Centre during a press conference at the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM). The session was led by Pol Gen Samrarn Nualma, deputy national police chief, and DDPM director-general Teerapat Katchamat.

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383296-29-killed-in-road-accidents-on-day-one-of-dangerous-week/

NARIT's AstroFest 2026 to Highlight Jupiter at Opposition

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The National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT) is hosting "NARIT AstroFest 2026" on January 10, 2026. Coinciding with National Children’s Day, the event offers free public viewing of Jupiter at its opposition across five locations. The festival runs from 9 am to 10 pm, featuring both daytime activities and night-time observations.

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383298-narits-astrofest-2026-to-highlight-jupiter-at-opposition/

Amlo Seizes 20M Baht in Black Mirror TKP Crackdown

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The Anti-Money Laundering Office (Amlo) in Thailand has temporarily seized an additional 20 million baht in assets linked to the "Black Mirror TKP" drug trafficking and money laundering network. The crackdown targeted a network with financial ties to a former People's Party Bangkok candidate. The operation on Monday involved multiple agencies, leading to the arrest of several suspects and the seizure of over 200 million baht in assets.

Full Story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383299-amlo-seizes-20m-baht-in-black-mirror-tkp-crackdown/

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Thailand Live Thursday 1 January 2026

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