ASEAN NOW Thailand

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19/09/2025

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has confirmed that all border checkpoints between Thailand and Cambodia remain closed after clashes in Sa Kaeo province.

The military, operating under martial law, is now in charge of border security following tensions with Cambodian nationals.

Anutin stressed that safeguarding sovereignty and citizens’ safety is the government’s top priority, while further action will be taken once the new cabinet is sworn in.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373484-thai-cambodian-borders-shut-pm-anutin-confirms-unrest/

Image via ThaiRath

18/09/2025

Lifeguards at Patong Beach in Phuket have warned tourists after venomous Portuguese man o’ war were spotted along the shore.

Beachgoers are advised to avoid contact and seek immediate help if stung.

Sightings have become more frequent during the southwest monsoon, prompting increased patrols at Patong, Kata, and Karon beaches.

Officials stress following beach safety flags, consulting lifeguards, and treating stings with vinegar while avoiding friction.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373475-warning-issued-as-venomous-jellyfish-wash-ashore-at-patong/

Image via KhaoSod

18/09/2025

Cyber police in Nonthaburi have shut down an illegal e-cigarette operation after raiding a condominium and arresting a 28-year-old woman.

Officers seized 150 disposable vapes, worth around 80,000 baht, hidden in packages labelled as “Baby Kids Perfume” to avoid detection.

The suspect admitted managing sales and coordinating shipments via a Line group targeting young people.

She now faces charges under the Customs Act as investigations continue.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373395-cyber-police-raid-uncovers-vape-sales-disguised-as-perfume/

Image via Amarin

18/09/2025

Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is experiencing health issues in prison, including high blood pressure, sleep disturbances, and hair loss, according to his daughter Paetongtarn after a recent family visit.

Despite his fatigue, Thaksin remained in good spirits and managed a smile.

His daily routine includes reading, light exercise, and watching TV, with ongoing medical care and psychological support.

Family visits remain brief, and funds are provided for daily expenses.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373469-thaksins-health-declines-hypertension-hair-loss-insomnia/

Image via South China Morning Post

18/09/2025

Police in Sisaket peacefully ended an eight-hour standoff after a 36-year-old man armed with an AK-47 threatened officers at his home in Non Khun district.

Wanted on drugs and weapons charges, he eventually surrendered following negotiations involving his family.

Police seized the rifle, ammunition and methamphetamine from the property.

He now faces multiple charges as part of ongoing efforts to tackle armed drug networks in the province.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373397-man-with-ak-47-surrenders-after-8-hour-police-standoff/

Image via Daily News

18/09/2025

A man went missing while collecting forest products in Mae Hong Son on 15 September 2025 and was later found dead in a stream after being swept away by a flash flood.

Villagers, police, and volunteer security forces carried out an extensive search, discovering his body lodged against a tree stump.

Authorities urged residents to avoid forests and rivers during heavy rain and to stay vigilant during sudden flash floods.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373402-forest-forager-found-dead-after-flash-flood-in-mae-hong-son/

Image via Khaosod

18/09/2025

A 56-year-old ice cream vendor was critically injured after being shot twice during a confrontation in Doi Saket, Chiang Mai.

The dispute began after the vendor was accused of repeatedly shooting dogs with a slingshot.

During the argument, he allegedly threatened a 70-year-old local with a knife, prompting the man to fire at him.

Police are investigating the incident, securing the knife and slingshot as evidence, and reviewing witness statements and CCTV footage.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373408-ice-cream-seller-shot-after-slingshotting-dogs-in-chiang-mai/

Image via Khaosod

18/09/2025

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18/09/2025

Two Japanese teenagers, aged 16 and 17, were arrested at Fukuoka Airport after attempting to smuggle 14 kilograms of cannabis extract from Thailand, hidden in instant curry packets.

Both confessed, and authorities are investigating links to a wider trafficking network.

The case highlights Japan’s strict drug laws and growing concerns over youth involvement in international smuggling.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373363-japanese-teens-arrested-for-smuggling-cannabis-from-thailand/

Image via livedoor news

18/09/2025

From 8 November, patrons drinking in pubs outside legal hours could face fines of up to 10,000 baht.

The new amendments to the Alcoholic Beverage Control Act target consumption after official closing times, aiming to strengthen alcohol regulations and public safety.

Bars may need to adjust hours or strategies to stay compliant, and the impact on nightlife businesses remains to be seen.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373421-drinking-after-hours-in-pubs-to-cost-up-to-10000-baht-fine/

Image via Tembela Bohle

18/09/2025

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is scheduled for a routine mental health check with a psychologist at Klong Prem Central Prison, coinciding with his second family visit.

His daily prison routine includes early rising, simple meals, reading, TV, and light exercise.

Thaksin’s family has deposited 15,000 baht for minor purchases, and his visit today is part of regular prison protocol.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373434-thaksin-to-meet-psychologist-for-routine-mental-health-check-up/

Image via Daily News

18/09/2025

Thailand is enhancing its appeal to Muslim travellers by launching a training programme for tour operators.

With over 3 million Malaysian tourists already visiting this year, the initiative aims to boost confidence, improve service standards, and tap into the growing Muslim travel market.

Training sessions across Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Krabi, and Pattani will reach at least 600 participants, focusing on safety, cleanliness, fairness, and sustainability.

Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1373423-thailand-boosts-tourism-by-training-staff-for-muslim-visitors/

Image via GT Tour Thailand