Nattapong Westwood
- Thailand News
Thai authorities arrest three for forging visa documents
The Thai authorities arrested three agency operators for forging documents to submit visa applications to various embassies, seizing numerous counterfeit items. The suspects confessed to their crimes and are now facing legal proceedings. At 11am yesterday, at the Immigration Office in Mueang Thong Thani, Deputy Commander-in-Chief Panthana Nuchnarot, along with Deputy Commander-in-Chief Ratchachot Chotikoon and other relevant officers, announced the…
- Crime News
Gambler’s feud ends in deadly shooting in Nakhon Si Thammarat
A gambler’s bitter feud ended in murder yesterday when a 44 year old man was shot dead by his wife’s estranged husband in Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand. The police quickly apprehended the suspect, who confessed to the crime. The tragic incident occurred at a residence in Moo 16, Bang Khan Subdistrict, Bang Khan District. The local police, led by Police…
- Thailand News
Woman’s skeleton found under temple crematorium in Bangkok
The discovery of a woman’s skeletal remains under a crematorium at a well-known temple in Bang Rak has shocked the community. The police have launched an investigation into the case, which dates back to an incident approximately 40 years ago. Police Lieutenant Krirkwut Ariyametha, Deputy Inspector (Investigation) at Bang Rak Police Station, received a report today, May 29, about the…
- Thailand News
Buriram contractor gives away 7 buffaloes to prevent slaughter
A contractor announced the giveaway of seven buffaloes, including breeding pairs and their offspring, to animal lovers for free, with the stipulation that they not be sold to slaughterhouses. The decision stems from a lack of time and space to care for the animals. A 48 year old resident of Yai Yaem Watthana in Chalermprakiat, Buriram, made the heartfelt decision…
- Thailand News
Fatal turn: Head-on collision claims life of wrong-way rider
A collision between a pickup truck and a motorcycle in Chanthaburi Province resulted in a tragic death last night, where the motorcycle driver, going against traffic, was hit head-on. The incident occurred at the old checkpoint intersection on Thetsaban Road in Khlung District. Police from Khlung Police Station and rescue volunteers arrived at the scene to find a severely damaged…
- Thailand Weather Updates
Thailand braces for heavy rain in 49 provinces today
The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) warned that 49 provinces in Thailand should brace for rain, with heavy downpours expected in the northern and eastern regions. Meanwhile, Bangkok and its vicinity will experience rain from afternoon to evening. The TMD’s 24-hour weather forecast indicates that a southwesterly monsoon is covering the Andaman Sea and Thailand, while a low-pressure area is present…
- Thailand News
Fireworks factory explosion victims wait compensation a year on
A devastating fireworks factory explosion in San Thung Mai village of Chiang Mai, left residents grappling with extensive damage and financial burdens nearly one year later. Compensation from the factory has yet to be received, forcing many to bear repair costs themselves, with some incurring expenses close to 200,000 baht. The explosion occurred around noon on July 24 last year,…
- Thailand News
Interest-ing development: Ministry slashes housing loan rates
The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security announced a significant reduction in housing loan interest rates by 0.5% for one year, aiming to support citizens during challenging economic times. Minister of Social Development and Human Security, Varawut Silpa-archa revealed this decision at a press conference at Government House at 10am today, May 28. The Community Organisations Development Institute (CODI)…
- Thailand News
Shocking house fire in Pathum Thani claims life of a bedridden man
A fire broke out in a single-storey house in Khlong Luang, Pathum Thani, resulting in the tragic death of the bedridden homeowner. The incident left his wife in shock after being informed by a neighbour’s call. An investigator from Khlong Luang Police Station, Teerasak Saento received the report about the fire in Moo 9, Khlong Sam Subdistrict, around 6am yesterday,…
- Thailand News
Police bust heroin smuggling gang after high-speed chase
The Thai authorities apprehended a transnational heroin smuggling gang after a high-speed chase ended with the suspect’s vehicle crashing into a roadside forest. Police discovered 380 bars of heroin weighing 139 kilogrammes with an estimated street value of 280 million baht. At 9.30am yesterday, senior police officials held a press conference at the Region 4 Provincial Police headquarters, announcing the…
- Thailand News
Immigration’s fruitful swoop on illegal vendors selling durians
Immigration Division 1 officers swooped on illegal seasonal fruit vendors, arresting several foreign nationals attempting to sell durians and other fruits on Nawamin Road in Bangkok. They were promptly apprehended despite efforts to flee on motorised tricycles. Commander of Immigration Division 1, Police Major General Prasart Khemaprasit, along with Deputy Commander, Police Colonel Keeratisak Kongkiatsiri, and Investigation Superintendent, Police Colonel Kachapon…
- Thailand News
Fisherman swept away in Chiang Mai, search efforts intensify
Search efforts continue for a missing fisherman swept away by heavy waves while fishing in Chiang Mai. Relatives conducted a ceremony to appease local spirits as authorities were using heavy machinery to excavate potential burial sites, and divers searched the river. The 35 year old fisherman had gone fishing with 46 year old Piboon Sujai, and other friends at a weir…
- Thailand News
Fungi folly: Couple arrested for selling hallucinogenic mushrooms
Police apprehended a couple involved in the illegal cultivation and sale of hallucinogenic mushrooms, claiming spiritual enlightenment and healing powers. Despite openly defying law enforcement to intervene, their bravado was shattered when they were ensnared by an undercover agent. The Metropolitan Police Bureau Chief, Thiti Saengsawang, yesterday, May 27, directed a team led by Napasin Poolsawat, along with Thiradet Thammasuteer and…
- Thailand News
Police imposters abduct shop owner’s sister, demand ransom
A group of men allegedly posing as police officers raided a Narathiwat grocery store, drove out customers, and abducted the shop owner’s sister, demanding a 30,000 baht ransom. The incident occurred yesterday, sparking outrage and calls for an investigation. Four to five men claimed to be officers from a special task force, entering the store without a warrant. They intimidated customers…
- Thailand News
Man fatally stabs friend to death over 20 baht in Chon Buri
A Thai man fatally stabbed his friend in Chon Buri after he refused to lend 20 baht. The tragic incident occurred earlier today, with police receiving a report of a stabbing at 12.30am in Mueang District. Upon arrival, officers found 43 year old Nirun critically injured with a stab wound to his left collarbone. Despite immediate CPR efforts, he was…
- Thailand News
Engineer gifts bride 120 baht of gold matching her weight
A young engineer made headlines by presenting 120 baht of gold, equivalent to the bride’s weight, as a dowry. The event, attended by many notable figures, took place yesterday in Pathum Thani. Kriangkrai Kadsa, known as Joe, led a vibrant procession to ask for the hand of Kewalin Kitiwan, also called Annie. The bride’s family, originally from Kamphaeng Phet, had…
- Thailand News
Python stuck in ceiling rescued in Ang Thong home
A large python was discovered stuck in a concrete crevice under the ceiling, with its head hanging down, in a house in Ang Thong. The homeowner quickly contacted rescue services, who used tools to safely extract the snake. The incident is believed to be a sign of good luck, prompting the homeowner to consider using the house number for a…
- Thailand News
Thai man ends life after failing to settle child molestation case
A 66 year old man, distressed over failing to settle a molestation case involving a 10 year old girl, ended his life with a firearm yesterday. The incident occurred at an unnamed rowhouse in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung, Chon Buri, and was reported to the police by 8.10am. Responding to the report, Police Lieutenant Colonel Jirasak and a rescue team…
- Thailand News
Fire destroys century-old house in Krabi, killing elderly woman
A tragic fire engulfed a century-old house, claiming the life of a 70 year old woman while her 85 year old sister narrowly escaped by hiding in the bathroom. Firefighters took five hours to subdue the inferno. At 3am yesterday, Police Captain Kiatichai Yodrak of Klong Thom Police Station in Krabi province received a report of a fire in a…
- Thailand News
Buriram village builds shrine for Golden Boy replica
The local municipality and residents are actively constructing a replica shrine and lifelike statue of the Golden Boy at the excavation site, using funds raised through faith and donations. A grand ceremony is planned for July 18 to honour the artefact. Following the repatriation of the bronze sculptures of Lord Shiva, known as the Golden Boy, and the Kneeling Female…
- Thailand News
Funeral held for student killed in Sa Kaeo bus crash
A heartbreaking accident involving a drug-intoxicated driver resulted in the funeral of a 15 year old student, Nong Tuta, and severe injuries to several others. The incident, which occurred on May 23, saw a pickup truck carrying 30,000 methamphetamine tablets crash into a school bus on Route 3259 in Sa Kaeo Province, killing two students and injuring 19. Yesterday at…
- Thailand News
Monitor lizard sparks electricity office chaos in Thailand
A large monitor lizard caused quite a stir when it wandered into the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) office in Sara Buri, Thailand. The unexpected visitor prompted a call for assistance from rescue volunteers to safely capture and relocate the creature. This morning, security officers at the PEA office in Sara Buri’s Pak Phriao sub-district reported spotting the sizeable reptile, weighing…
- Thailand News
Thai mobile banking sim names & accounts must match or else
Starting tomorrow, individuals using mobile banking in Thailand must ensure that the name registered on their mobile SIM card matches the name on their bank account. Failure to comply will result in the suspension of their mobile banking services. Thailand’s Ministry of Digital Economy and Society announced a new measure aimed at curbing fraudulent bank accounts and SIM cards, commonly…
- Thailand News
Phuket: Belgian expat’s secret stash of illegal pawn busted
Phuket unveiled a clandestine operation hidden within the opulent residence of a Belgian national. Motorcycles, an array of national IDs, and a single mobile phone were found in the expat’s possession. Police Lieutenant Colonel Thepnom Suwannarat, Superintendent of Investigation Division 3, Provincial Police Region 8, bore fruit as he apprehended a 63 year old Belgian, known only as Philippe. His…
- Thailand News
Chinese fugitive running luxury scams in Thailand arrested
Thai immigration authorities nabbed a Chinese fugitive running an illicit tour operation in Bangkok. Following a tip-off about an Asian man suspected of working and residing illegally in Thailand, officers launched an in-depth investigation. Duan, a 42 year old Chinese fugitive residing in a posh condominium in the Ramkhamhaeng district was apprehended. Duan was already on the radar in China…
- Thailand News
Finance Ministry to discuss new economic stimulus measures
The Ministry of Finance is currently considering new economic stimulus measures to boost the economy in the second half of 2024. Previously, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira held discussions about the economic situation, particularly focusing on economic figures. Despite the government’s extensive stimulus efforts, the economy grew by 1.5% in the first quarter of 2024, which, although…
- Thailand News
Diesel shock: Fuel Fund revs prices to 32.44 baht per litre
The Fuel Fund today announced an increase in the diesel price by 50 satangs per litre, raising it to 32.44 baht per litre, effective tomorrow. Despite reduced expenses, the fund still faces liquidity issues, according to the Director of the Fuel Fund Office, Wisak Wattanaphap. The Fuel Fund Management Committee convened and recognised the need to enhance the liquidity of…
- Thailand News
Release of sensitive CCTV footage of Netiporn delayed
The Department of Corrections has clarified its position regarding a lawyer’s request for CCTV footage taken while medical personnel were treating Netiporn Sanesangkhom, also known as Bung Taluwang, who later died during her hunder strike. The department stated that they could not yet provide the footage from the correctional hospital as it must be reviewed to ensure legal accuracy and…
- Thailand News
Neighbour strikes boy over ‘drunkard’ name-calling
A neighbour struck a six year old boy after he called him a drunkard, prompting the boy’s mother to take legal action. The incident left the child frightened and his mother determined to see justice served. Kritsakon, the mother of six year old Kaprao, shared her distressing experience. Yesterday evening, Kaprao was cycling with a friend, the grandson of the man…
- Thailand News
Centenarian couple in Trang share secrets to longevity
Two elders, known as Grandfather Dam and Grandmother Kam, both over a century old and residents of Trang Province, Thailand, have shared their secrets to longevity and good health. Despite their advanced age, both remain remarkably active and healthy. Grandfather Dam Chaisongkram was born in 1922 and is now 101 years old. His wife, Grandmother Kam Chaisongkram, born in 1924,…