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/

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/

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/

British Tourist Arrested After Assault on Bolt Rider in Pattaya

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A British tourist has been arrested after allegedly assaulting a Bolt motorcycle taxi rider in Pattaya, leaving the driver injured and requiring medical treatment. The incident occurred at 03:35 on 31 December in front of Walking Street, South Pattaya and prompted an emergency response from rescue workers and police.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383323-british-tourist-arrested-after-assault-on-bolt-rider-in-pattaya/

UPDATE

CIB Reviews 10 Major Crime Cases Handled in 2025

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The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has released a year-end review highlighting 10 major criminal cases handled in 2025, covering misconduct in the Buddhist clergy, large-scale fraud, cybercrime, transnational scams, tax evasion, human trafficking, organised crime and vehicle laundering. The bureau said the cases demonstrate the scale and impact of modern crime, with damage to lives, property and public trust.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383295-thailand-cib-highlights-2025s-major-criminal-cases/#findComment-20306232

Jealousy-Fuelled Shooting at Petrol Station Kills Two

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A deadly shooting at a petrol station in Bo Thong district, Chonburi, left two people dead and one critically injured in the early hours of 31 December, sending shockwaves through the local community. Police said the gunman opened fire on his former partner and her new companion before taking his own life at the scene. The incident occurred at around 1.30am in the forecourt area near a coffee shop.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383291-jealousy-fuelled-shooting-at-petrol-station-kills-two/

Navy Arrests Six Chinese Nationals in Border Crossing Attempt

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Thai naval forces have arrested six Chinese nationals while they were attempting to illegally cross the eastern border into Cambodia, disrupting what authorities believe was a transnational criminal movement linked to cyber scam operations. The arrests took place in Chanthaburi province during the New Year holiday period, a time officials say criminal networks often exploit to evade detection, and the suspects were taken into custody for legal processing.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383324-navy-arrests-six-chinese-nationals-in-border-crossing-attempt/

Myanmar Factory Worker Killed in Knife Attack in Bangkok

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A 28-year-old Myanmar national was killed in a knife attack following a drunken altercation with a co-worker in Bangkok’s Bang Khae district early on 30 December 2025, prompting a police investigation and the arrest of the suspected attacker. The incident occurred shortly after midnight and resulted in one fatality, raising concerns about alcohol-fuelled violence among groups of migrant workers living in close quarters.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383325-myanmar-factory-worker-killed-in-knife-attack-in-bangkok/

Thai Seas in Crisis as Coral Bleaching Hits 30%

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Thailand is facing a deepening coastal environmental crisis, with new findings showing coral bleaching affecting 30% of reefs nationwide and Thai residents ingesting an estimated 50,000 microplastic particles per person each year. The situation poses immediate risks to marine ecosystems, coastal communities and public health, with concerns ranging from food-chain contamination to long-term disease risks. The findings have prompted renewed cooperation between public health, research and academic bodies to strengthen coastal management and climate resilience.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383326-thai-seas-in-crisis-as-coral-bleaching-hits-30/

Kazakh National Arrested in Phuket With Cocaine & Drug Stickers

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A 33-year-old Kazakh national was arrested at a police checkpoint in Phuket after officers found cocaine hidden on his body and drug-sale QR code stickers in his bag, raising concerns about drug distribution targeting tourist areas. The arrest took place during heightened New Year security operations and led to immediate legal action for possession of a Category 2 narcotic.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383327-kazakh-national-arrested-in-phuket-with-cocaine-drug-stickers/

Industry Minister Inspects Map Ta Phut Phase 3 Progress

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The Industry Minister Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana on 30 December 2025 inspected progress at the Map Ta Phut Industrial Estate and Industrial Port Phase 3 in Rayong, ordering faster implementation to boost investor confidence and strengthen national energy security. The visit focused on accelerating infrastructure development in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), with immediate implications for large-scale industrial investment and logistics capacity.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383328-industry-minister-inspects-map-ta-phut-phase-3-progress/

Man Killed by Younger Brother After Drinking Session

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Police in Samut Prakan have arrested a 27-year-old man accused of assaulting his elder brother to death following a drinking session to celebrate the New Year, in a case that has shocked colleagues and local residents. The suspect allegedly attacked the victim while he was asleep, resulting in fatal injuries discovered hours later.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383329-man-killed-by-younger-brother-after-drinking-session/

13 Die From Streptococcus Suis Infection in Korat

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Public health officials in Nakhon Ratchasima have confirmed 13 deaths linked to Streptococcus suis infection, locally known as “ear fever”, with 93 cumulative cases recorded in the province. The outbreak has prompted urgent health warnings ahead of New Year celebrations due to increased social gatherings involving food preparation and consumption. Authorities have stressed that improper handling or consumption of pork poses a serious and potentially fatal risk.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383330-13-die-from-streptococcus-suis-infection-in-korat/

Thai Task force Intercepts 26 Malaysians in Tak

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Thai security forces intercepted 26 foreign nationals who had illegally crossed into Thailand from Myanmar in Tak province on 31 December, preventing further unauthorised movement inland. The group was detained during a checkpoint operation and handed over to police for legal proceedings.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383331-thai-task-force-intercepts-26-malaysians-in-tak/

Drink-Driving Dominates New Year Cases as Bangkok Tops List

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The probation authorities have reported that drink-driving cases overwhelmingly dominated the first day of the “seven dangerous days” New Year road safety campaign for 2026, with 273 cases recorded nationwide and Bangkok logging the highest number. The figures highlight the continued impact of alcohol-related offences on road safety at the start of the holiday period.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383332-drink-driving-dominates-new-year-cases-as-bangkok-tops-list/

Jealousy Attack Leaves Husband Injured in Samut Prakan

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A Myanmar man was left injured after being attacked with a machete by his wife at a rented room in Samut Prakan on 31 December, prompting an urgent emergency response and hospitalisation.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1383333-jealousy-attack-leaves-husband-injured-in-samut-prakan/

Dettol Cleaner Remanded in Custody After Failing to Secure Bail

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A 57-year-old daily cleaner accused of poisoning a toddler with disinfectant has been remanded in custody after failing to raise bail at Phra Nakhon Tai District Court on 31 December. The suspect, known as “Pa Ann”, was transferred immediately to the Central Women’s Correctional Institution after the court ordered her detention during the investigation.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383335-dettol-cleaner-remanded-in-custody-after-failing-to-secure-bail/

Police Bust Cross-Border Mule Account Network in Chiang Rai

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Police in Chiang Rai have arrested 10 suspects linked to a cross-border financial crime network involving mule bank accounts and cash couriers, following random inspections at entertainment venues on 31 December 2025. The operation disrupted a scheme used to withdraw and transfer large sums of cash across the Thai–Lao border, with suspects taken into custody and assets seized for further investigation.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383336-police-bust-cross-border-mule-account-network-in-chiang-rai/

Burapha Task Force Reclaims Nong Chan Land in New Year Move

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The Burapha Task Force has dismantled buildings belonging to a Cambodian local strongman at Ban Nong Chan in Sa Kaeo province, marking the successful recovery of the disputed area and restoring full Thai control. The operation, carried out on 30 December 2025 and reported on 31 December 2025, immediately cleared unauthorised structures and reaffirmed Thailand’s sovereignty over the land. Authorities described the action as a symbolic New Year gesture to Thai citizens, particularly local residents awaiting the return of their farmland.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383338-burapha-task-force-reclaims-nong-chan-land-in-new-year-move/

Security Guard Found Stabbed to Death at Bangkok Factory Gate

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A security guard was found stabbed to death inside a guard booth at a well-known energy drink company in Bangkok on the morning of 31 December 2025, prompting an urgent police investigation. The body was discovered by a colleague arriving to take over the next shift, who was shocked to find the victim unresponsive and covered with a raincoat. The incident has raised concerns about safety at the site as officers work to establish the reasons behind the death.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383341-security-guard-found-stabbed-to-death-at-bangkok-factory-gate/

Police Arrest Malaysian Call Scam Cash Mule in Hat Yai

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Immigration and regional police have arrested a 19-year-old Malaysian national suspected of acting as a cash mule for a transnational call centre scam, less than 24 hours after a court warrant was issued. The suspect was detained at a hotel in central Hat Yai, Songkhla province, as he was preparing to flee Thailand, marking a rapid breakthrough in a case involving losses exceeding one million baht.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383343-police-arrest-malaysian-call-scam-cash-mule-in-hat-yai/

Three Major Disasters in Thailand in 2025 Expose Safety Failures

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Thailand faced three major disasters in 2025 that caused significant loss of life and widespread damage, highlighting systemic weaknesses in construction standards, infrastructure oversight and disaster preparedness. The incidents ranged from a collapsed government building in Bangkok and a massive road sinkhole linked to rail construction, to catastrophic flooding in the deep south. Together, they prompted renewed scrutiny of safety regulations, emergency response systems and long-term urban planning.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383345-three-major-disasters-in-thailand-in-2025-expose-safety-failures/

Two Killed, Four Injured in Chumphon New Year Crash

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Two people were killed and four others injured when a car driver lost control and crashed into a pickup truck at a U-turn near a roadside market in Tha Sae district, Chumphon province, on 31 December 2568. The collision occurred at about 17.00 and caused an immediate fatality at the scene and another later at hospital, prompting an emergency response from police and rescue teams.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383347-two-killed-four-injured-in-chumphon-new-year-crash/

PM Anutin Delivers New Year 2026 Message to Nation

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Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has delivered his New Year address as Thailand entered 2026, extending seasonal greetings and outlining messages of renewal, strength and stability to Thai citizens at home and abroad. The address marked the country’s transition into the new year and underscored the government’s focus on unity and public safety during the holiday period.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383348-pm-anutin-delivers-new-year-2026-message-to-nation/

Bangkok Tourist Police Arrest Algerian Pickpockets on BTS

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Bangkok’s Tourist Police have arrested two Algerian men accused of targeting tourists in pickpocketing incidents on the BTS Skytrain, amid heightened security during the Christmas and New Year period. The arrests followed an investigation into thefts on crowded train services and popular tourist routes, aiming to protect visitors and public confidence during the holiday season.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383349-bangkok-tourist-police-arrest-algerian-pickpockets-on-bts/

BBC Omits Thailand as Phnom Penh Makes 2026 Travel List

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The BBC has excluded Thailand from its “20 Best Places to Travel in 2026,” instead selecting Phnom Penh as one of the world’s top destinations, a decision that could influence regional tourism perceptions. The list highlights destinations judged to offer meaningful travel experiences while supporting sustainability, local communities and cultural preservation.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383355-bbc-omits-thailand-as-phnom-penh-makes-2026-travel-list/

Over a Hundred Stranded as Pattaya Hotel Check-in Fails

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More than 100 tourists were left unable to check in at a hotel in Pattaya on New Year’s Eve after a major booking system failure caused widespread disruption at one of Thailand’s busiest travel periods. The incident occurred on the afternoon of 31 December 2025 at Elong Hotel, affecting both Thai and international guests who had pre-booked rooms.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383360-over-a-hundred-stranded-as-pattaya-hotel-check-in-fails/

Road Deaths Reach 53 on New Year’s Eve, Officials Tighten Checks

Thailand’s Road Safety Centre has reported 53 deaths and 262 injuries from 271 road accidents on New Year’s Eve, prompting authorities to tighten enforcement against speeding and drink-driving during continued holiday travel. The figures underline the ongoing risk to public safety as people travel to celebrate and make merit for the New Year.

Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1383366-road-deaths-reach-53-on-new-years-eve-officials-tighten-checks/