เมื่อเวลา 23.30น. 28/4/68 รับแจ้งมีอุบัติเหตุรถกระบะพลิกคว่ำมีผู้บาดเจ็บติดภายใน บริเวณทางเข้าวัดสันติคามถนนสาย36 ตรวจสอบในที่เกิดเหตุพบรถกระบะพลิกคว่ำอยู่ข้างทางมีผู้ได้รับบาดเจ็บทั้งหมด3ราย ชายรายที่1 กระเด็นออกมานอกตัวรถ ส่วนผู้หญิงและเด็ก ยังติดอยู่ในซากรถ เจ้าหน้าที่กู้ภัยได้ใช้อุปกรณ์เครื่องตัดถ่างนำเด็กและผู้หญิงออกมาจากตัวรถ ก่อนนะจะส่งต่อให้รถ แอดวานซ์ รพ.กรุงเทพพัทยา ทำการรักษาและเคลื่อนย้ายนำส่ง รพ. พัทยาปัทมคุณ #PattayaRescue #อุบัติเหตุ

Deputy Mayor Manoch leads a meeting on Pattaya’s major streetlight upgrade project at City Hall. PATTAYA, Thailand – Deputy Mayor Manot Nongyai discussed plans to replace public streetlights across Pattaya, with the project aiming to swap old 250-watt High Pressure Sodium lamps for 110-watt LED lights to improve community safety and energy efficiency. Recognizing the importance of public safety at night, Pattaya officials noted that many of the city’s current streetlights—using aging High Pressure Sodium technology—emit a soft orange glow that is no longer sufficient. Many fixtures have also deteriorated after years of use. To address these issues, Pattaya has launched a project to modernize its street lighting by installing 4,000 LED lamps citywide. The new LED lights will provide stronger illumination, enhance public safety, reduce energy consumption, and improve the overall quality of life. During the meeting, officials agreed to divide the work into four zones, starting from the inner city outward to the city limits. The installation is expected to be completed within six months. Pattaya City plans to install 4,000 new LED streetlights to replace outdated High Pressure Sodium lamps. The switch to LED lights is aimed at improving nighttime safety and boosting energy efficiency. Officials expect the full installation of LED lights across Pattaya to be completed within six months.

Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatkiat Jindakwuansanong, Commander of Chonburi Provincial Police leads a dramatic re-enactment of the brutal murder at the crime scene, revealing chilling details of the suspect’s actions. PATTAYA, Thailand – In the shocking case involving Mr. Woranun Pannakha, also known as Note, a 25-year-old transgender woman (LGBTQ+), who had undergone gender reassignment surgery, she was brutally murdered by her Chinese partner, Mr. Tongyung Fu, 42 years old, on April 26. The victim’s chest was slashed from her neck down to her genital area, her heart was removed, and her left lung was missing. Both breasts were cut open, and the silicone implants were extracted and placed beside her body. The body was left hidden in a bathroom at an apartment in Soi Arunothai, Central Pattaya. Later, the Pattaya Provincial Court issued an arrest warrant, and Mr. Tongyung Fu was apprehended at Suvarnabhumi Airport, Samut Prakan Province, while attempting to flee to Kunming, China. At 12:00 PM on April 27, Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatkiat Jindakwuansanong, Commander of Chonburi Provincial Police, along with senior Pattaya police officers and over 20 plainclothes and uniformed officers, escorted Mr. Tongyung Fu to the crime scene at Room 201, 2nd Floor, of the apartment for a crime scene re-enactment. Large crowds gathered to watch, forcing police to secure the area tightly to prevent any incidents and ensure the suspect’s safety. The crime scene re-enactment revealed that Mr. Fu had brought the victim to his room, where they agreed on a price of 8,000 Baht. As they were about to engage in intercourse, the victim resisted, leading to a violent argument. Mr. Fu demanded half the money back, but the victim refused. A fierce physical altercation ensued: the victim scratched Mr. Fu’s face and kicked him in the mouth, breaking one of his front teeth. Enraged, Mr. Fu threw the victim to the floor beside the bed and pressed his left knee against her neck until she suffocated and died. He then dragged her body into the bathroom, used scissors to slash her torso from abdomen to chest, removed the breast implants and the heart, placing them beside the body. After the dismemberment, he used a blanket to wipe the body and clean the blood in the bathroom. He stayed in the room until morning, then booked a flight and attempted to flee, using a motorcycle taxi to a bus station in North Pattaya, heading toward Suvarnabhumi Airport. He was caught at the airport with the victim’s mobile phone in his possession. The body of 25-year-old transgender woman Note was found in a bathroom at an apartment in Pattaya, showing signs of gruesome mutilation. The police also escorted the suspect to three more locations for additional re-enactments. The first was a 20-Baht shop near the apartment where he bought items, then to the North Pattaya bus station, where he boarded a bus to the airport, and finally to South Pattaya Beach, near the entrance to Walking Street, where the victim and suspect first met and exchanged contact information via the WeChat app. During questioning, Mr. Fu admitted that he only realized the victim was transgender after his arrest. Pol. Maj. Gen. Thawatkiat stated after the re-enactment that this was a “sensational, gruesome case” that captured massive public attention. He praised the quick work of Pattaya police, noting their thorough evidence gathering that led to the arrest at the airport, along with effective cooperation from Immigration Police and Tourist Police. Initially, the suspect refused to confess but ultimately surrendered when confronted with the victim’s mobile phone found in his possession. Mr. Fu confessed that he killed the victim after she resisted and kicked him, breaking his tooth, leading to a rage-fueled attack. He admitted that after killing her, curiosity inspired by crime series he had watched led him to dissect the body using scissors. Mr. Fu’s background as a welder gave him the strength and precision to make clean incisions. Police strongly denied rumors suggesting links to human trafficking or organ trade. However, they stated that forensic results were still pending to confirm whether any other organs were missing. Mr. Fu now faces charges of murder and theft for taking the victim’s mobile phone. After committing the murder, Mr. Tongyung Fu attempted to flee to China, only to be caught at Suvarnabhumi Airport with the victim’s phone in his possession. While police escorted Mr. Fu to the 20-Baht store for the crime scene re-enactment, the victim’s father, Mr. Auan Pannakha, 61, along with over ten family members, showed up. They wept openly and shouted curses at the suspect, overwhelmed by anger and grief. At one point, Mr. Auan managed to strike Mr. Fu over the head with a bottle, prompting police to intervene quickly to prevent further escalation. In an interview, Mr. Auan tearfully shared that he was still in deep shock. Four years ago, Note had asked to move to Taiwan to work and study Chinese, eventually becoming fluent. After two years, Note returned to Pattaya. Note had been the family’s financial pillar, sending 10,000 Baht monthly and buying necessities for the family. Recently, Note had completed building a house for his parents and had promised to take them on a trip to China — plans tragically cut short by the murder. Mr. Auan also mentioned a chilling detail: Months earlier, a fortune-teller warned that when his wife turned 60, the family should be careful not to lose something they loved — they had feared for the father, never imagining the tragedy would strike their beloved child instead. The victim’s father, overwhelmed by emotion, strikes the suspect in a fit of rage at the police station, demanding justice for his daughter. The victim, Note, had promised to take her parents on a trip to China after building them a new home, but her life was tragically cut short by a brutal act of violence. Mr. Auan Pannakha, the victim’s father, shares his heartbreak, recalling how his daughter was the family’s financial supporter, sending money every month before the tragedy struck.

Tourist Police display evidence recovered from an Iranian couple accused of tricking and stealing from a tourist in Pattaya. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya Tourist Police and Chonburi Immigration Police held a press conference announcing the arrest of an Iranian couple involved in a series of thefts against tourists in Pattaya. The suspects, identified as Mr. Ahmadi Fiouj Hooshang, 49, and Mrs. Mahmodi Kiya Ameneh, 42, both Iranian nationals, were charged with “joint theft at night or possession of stolen property.” The case stems from an incident reported on April 24, at 9:11 PM, when the Tourist Police emergency hotline 1155 received a call from an Israeli tourist. He reported that two foreign individuals, a man and a woman described as Middle Eastern, had approached him outside the Twin Palms Resort asking to “see his US dollars,” before his money – totaling $700 – mysteriously disappeared. Tourist Police officers swiftly investigated, took the victim to file a formal complaint at Pattaya City Police Station, and launched a search operation. Investigations led officers to a room in the Jomtien area where the suspects were staying. Upon searching their room, police found clothing matching descriptions from the incident and recovered seven $100 US bills whose serial numbers matched those reported stolen by the victim. The Iranian couple was taken into custody and handed over to the investigators for formal prosecution. Tourist Police also issued a warning to tourists and the general public to remain vigilant about their belongings and to report any suspicious behavior immediately via the Tourist Police hotline 1155, available 24/7. The arrested suspects, identified as Mr. Ahmadi Fiouj Hooshang and Mrs. Mahmodi Kiya Ameneh, are accused of theft at night. Authorities urge tourists to stay alert and report any suspicious behavior to Tourist Police hotline 1155, available 24 hours.

Pattaya mourns shocking murder allegedly committed by Chinese tourist, calls for urgent government action to protect city’s reputation. PATTAYA, Thailand – Pattaya residents are voicing increasing alarm over Thailand’s visa-free policy for Chinese tourists, citing a disturbing rise in crime and lawlessness that threatens the city’s reputation. The visa-free scheme, designed to boost the tourism sector, currently allows citizens from 93 countries — including China — to enter Thailand without a visa for up to 60 days, with an option to extend by another 30 days. However, locals fear that lax screening combined with lenient immigration laws is attracting not only tourists but also undesirable elements. Tensions have flared following the recent brutal murder of a Thai transgender individual in Central Pattaya, allegedly at the hands of a Chinese tourist. The shocking incident has intensified public outrage and fueled growing perceptions that some visitors are abusing Thailand’s hospitality. Compounding these fears are daily scenes of reckless driving by Chinese nationals in Pattaya, leading to road chaos, frequent minor accidents, and concerns about pedestrian safety. Residents report a rise in illegal motorcycle rentals to foreigners without licenses, erratic driving, and disregard for traffic laws — further deteriorating the city’s image as a safe destination. Locals decry reckless driving chaos caused by Chinese visitors in tourist zones. Senator Wanchai Ekpornpichit has called for an urgent reassessment of the visa-free policy, warning that without stricter controls, Thailand risks becoming a “hub for transnational crime.” He pointed to evidence of Chinese criminal syndicates operating businesses and scams out of tourist cities like Pattaya. In response to growing concerns, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has instructed the Foreign Affairs Ministry, Interior Ministry, and Tourism and Sports Ministry to evaluate the true impact of the visa-free arrangement, with a special focus on whether the length of permitted stays should be shortened to prevent misuse. Locals say the city must act decisively before its reputation is irreparably harmed. “We wanted tourists, not troublemakers,” one long-term resident said. “If nothing changes, Pattaya could be overwhelmed by low-class and criminal visitors, while real quality tourists are scared away.” As the debate intensifies, Pattaya stands at a crossroads: protect its economic engine or protect its community.

Pattaya’s ongoing effort to clear public walkways: A step toward a cleaner, safer city. PATTAYA, Thailand – The city of Pattaya has been actively addressing public obstruction issues by removing materials that block walkways, particularly on Sukhumvit Road and Jomtien Beach Road. Officials are committed to keeping these paths clear, emphasizing the importance of respecting both individual and public rights. Despite the efforts, many citizens express skepticism, pointing out that the materials often return after being cleared. “It’s a constant cycle. They clear it today, and by tomorrow, it’s back,” one resident shared. Others feel that while the initiative is a good start, it needs to be applied consistently across all areas of the city. “They should clear every street, not just the ones with heavy foot traffic,” said another commenter. Public opinion varies, with some praising the move for a cleaner city, while others suggest a more comprehensive approach, including fines for repeated offenders. “It’s not enough to just clear the streets. People need to be penalized for blocking public spaces,” one resident argued. The issue extends beyond just the main streets, with concerns raised about areas like Second Road Soi 9, and along public spaces like Tree Town Market in Soi Bua Khao. “There’s a lot of illegal parking, personal items on the streets, and even some vendors blocking walkways,” a concerned citizen pointed out. Residents hope for consistent action across all areas as city officials clear obstructions from Sukhumvit and Jomtien Roads. While many appreciate the government’s action, some businesses and individuals are concerned about the implications, such as motorbike taxis losing their shaded areas or restaurants having to move their items off the street. “It’s good to see the government addressing the problem, but we also need to make sure we don’t hurt local businesses,” said a local shop owner. The initiative has gained a lot of support, with many hoping it will become a long-term solution. “Keep it up! If they do this every day, it will eventually work. It’s a great start,” said a supportive local. Some are even suggesting that if the government continues these efforts and broadens them to all areas, it will make a significant difference in the city’s cleanliness and public safety. For now, the public is eagerly watching to see whether the campaign will continue and expand. With many voicing their support and others calling for more action, it’s clear that the battle to reclaim public spaces for everyone is just beginning. While many applaud the clean-up, some suggest that fines for repeat offenders could improve the initiative.   Local businesses and citizens call for a balanced approach to clearing public spaces without hurting local commerce. One local, thrilled by the cleanup, exclaimed, “Finally clearing out the mess in front of my shop — take it all away!”

Visa-Free Scheme Revision: Is It Fair to Punish All Tourists for a Few Violations? PATTAYA, Thailand – Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has recently ordered a revision of Thailand’s visa-free entry scheme after incidents of visitors overstaying and working illegally. This revision aims to prevent abuses of the system, with the government planning to reassess the appropriate duration of stay for tourists and find a balance that still promotes tourism. Currently, nationals from 93 countries and territories are granted visa exemptions for up to 60 days, with a possible extension of another 30 days. However, the scheme has faced criticism for being exploited by a small number of visitors who overstay their visa or engage in illegal work. These violations have raised concerns about the effectiveness of the visa exemption and its ability to meet the objective of fostering tourism. While it’s understandable that the government must address violations, many argue that punishing all visitors for the actions of a few is unfair. Some critics suggest that even a short stay of 72 hours could still lead to the same violations, raising the question of whether shortening the stay is truly the solution. They believe the focus should be on better regulation and enforcement, not penalizing all tourists. For example, a common complaint among long-term visitors is the ease with which individuals who intend to overstay their visa or work illegally can exploit the system, regardless of the visa duration. Critics argue that the solution isn’t to shorten the visa-free stay to 30 days but to focus on stricter enforcement against individuals who break the law. The issue isn’t just about overstays; it extends to other violations that put both tourists and locals in danger, such as illegal work or driving without proper insurance. An example of this is the case of individuals with old, poorly maintained cars who transport vulnerable passengers without the necessary qualifications or insurance. These actions not only break the law but also put lives at risk. The government’s failure to address such issues could erode trust in the country’s tourism industry, particularly among tourists who value their safety and peace of mind. After more than 35 years of love for Thailand, some long-term visitors are expressing deep frustration with the government’s approach, especially when it comes to issues like inadequate services for those with disabilities. One such incident occurred when a major airline failed to provide requested wheelchair services, leading to a near-dangerous situation for an individual who was almost forced into an unsafe vehicle. The frustration is clear: while a small number of tourists may take advantage of the system, it’s unfair to punish the vast majority who abide by the rules. Critics of the visa revision fear that tightening the rules will ultimately lead to a drop in tourism, and consequently, a loss of revenue for the country. They argue that the government should instead focus on stricter enforcement against lawbreakers and create a system that truly protects visitors and the country’s tourism industry.

The weak baht may attract more tourists, but Thailand’s tourism revival depends on much more than just currency value. PATTAYA, Thailand – The Thai baht is expected to fluctuate between 33.05 and 33.80 THB/USD this week, with a narrower range forecasted for the next 24 hours at 33.40-33.65 THB/USD. As of April 28, 2025, the baht has remained stable at 33.55 THB/USD, showing no change from last week’s closing level. Over the weekend, the baht moved in a sideways pattern, reflecting similar trends in the US dollar and gold prices, as market participants await key data such as US labor market reports and tech earnings. While the baht’s depreciation could make Thailand more affordable for foreign visitors, experts believe that it won’t be enough to fully revive the country’s tourism sector. Several other factors are necessary for a comprehensive recovery of tourism, which has been impacted by global challenges over the past few years. Travel decisions are heavily influenced by global consumer confidence, which remains shaken by economic uncertainty, health concerns, and travel restrictions. Experts suggest that Thailand must focus on restoring confidence in international travel through effective public health measures and clear communication. To regain its position as a top global destination, Thailand must continue promoting its diverse offerings, including wellness tourism and cultural experiences. Initiatives like the “Amazing Thailand Health & Wellness Journey” and the Amazing Thailand Health & Wellness Trade Meet 2025 have shown promise in positioning Thailand as a prime location for health-conscious travelers. While a weaker baht can attract foreign visitors, Thailand must ensure that its infrastructure is capable of accommodating an influx of tourists. Improved transportation, better hotel services, and more efficient connectivity between destinations are essential to enhancing the overall tourist experience. The Thai tourism industry must also look beyond its famous beach resorts and diversify into niche markets such as eco-tourism and cultural tourism. These areas are increasingly popular with travelers seeking unique, sustainable experiences. Continued government support through favorable policies for the tourism sector, such as tax incentives for hotels and travel agencies, will be crucial. Stable policies will help foster an environment where tourism businesses can plan confidently and invest in long-term growth.

Visitors in Thailand are increasingly facing issues with reckless driving, overcharging, and unprofessional behavior, tarnishing the country’s image. PATTAYA, Thailand – Thailand has unfortunately become the backdrop for several negative experiences for tourists, particularly when it comes to transportation. Whether it’s chaotic traffic, aggressive driving, or unprofessional service, these issues are starting to tarnish the country’s image in the eyes of travelers. A recent incident has sparked significant backlash against public service drivers. On April 27, a public transport driver, reportedly a GrabCar driver, shared a photo online showing him dropping off a foreign passenger by the side of the road near Suvarnabhumi Airport. The driver mocked the passenger, posting a caption that read, “I don’t know where you’re coming from, but don’t try to be tough with the driver.” The incident quickly went viral, drawing outrage from netizens who condemned the driver’s unprofessionalism. Many criticized his actions, with some suggesting that he should stop driving altogether due to his lack of integrity. The act of dropping off a paying passenger before their destination is not only unprofessional but also illegal under Thailand’s transport laws. According to Sections 104 and 127 of the Land Transport Act, drivers are prohibited from making passengers exit the vehicle before reaching their agreed destination, and violators could face a fine of up to 5,000 Baht. However, this is just one example of the many frustrating experiences tourists face when relying on local transport. This incident is part of a broader trend of unsatisfactory service in Thailand’s transport sector. From overcharging to reckless driving and a lack of accountability, tourists often find themselves exposed to situations that can feel unsafe and unpleasant. These negative experiences, combined with the ongoing security issues in the south of the country, are beginning to overshadow the Thailand that many have come to love. With the rise of online criticism, it’s clear that the country’s tourism industry needs to address these transportation issues more effectively to ensure a safe and positive experience for visitors. Online backlash highlights the need for reforms in Thailand’s transport sector to ensure a safe and positive experience for tourists.

As Vietnam shines with luxury resorts and premium experiences, Pattaya struggles under the weight of low-budget tourism. PATTAYA, Thailand – In a shift that is reshaping regional tourism dynamics, Vietnam is increasingly attracting high-end Chinese tourists, while Pattaya — once a jewel of Thailand’s tourism crown — is experiencing a downturn, increasingly relying on low-budget visitors. Since China’s borders reopened in early 2023, affluent Chinese travelers have been seeking out new destinations that offer fresh experiences, luxury accommodations, and high-quality service — and Vietnam has seized the opportunity. Cities like Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc have rapidly developed five-star resorts, exclusive golf courses, and world-class casinos tailored to a wealthier clientele. Vietnam’s aggressive investment in infrastructure, combined with marketing campaigns promoting luxury travel, has paid off handsomely. Meanwhile, Pattaya, once synonymous with vibrant nightlife and a bustling international crowd, finds itself grappling with a different reality. Although visitor numbers have rebounded to some extent, much of the tourist inflow now consists of low-budget travelers seeking cheap accommodation, discounted tours, and minimal spending experiences. High-end Chinese tourists who once filled Pattaya’s premium hotels and dined at upscale restaurants are notably absent. Several factors contribute to this trend. First, Thailand’s visa policies and administrative delays have frustrated potential Chinese tourists, while Vietnam has moved quickly to simplify entry requirements. Second, safety concerns and negative publicity surrounding Pattaya’s crime incidents, tourist scams, and transportation issues have dented its reputation among discerning travelers. Lastly, Pattaya’s heavy reliance on its aging brand of nightlife-centric tourism seems increasingly out of touch with the tastes of modern, affluent Chinese visitors who are seeking more “Instagrammable” cultural, wellness, and eco-tourism experiences. Local businesses in Pattaya are feeling the strain. Luxury hotels report lower occupancy rates compared to mid-range and budget properties. Upscale restaurants and shopping malls have also seen a drop in Chinese high-spenders, affecting profits and forcing a strategic rethink. Some industry insiders warn that without significant upgrades to Pattaya’s tourism offerings — including better security, new luxury attractions, and sustainable travel options — the city risks being left behind in the fiercely competitive Southeast Asian tourism market. Vietnam, meanwhile, is doubling down on its success, with major investments in tourism infrastructure continuing into 2025. If current trends continue, Vietnam may not only capture a larger share of the Chinese luxury market but also redefine itself as Southeast Asia’s new premium destination — a title that Pattaya, for now, is struggling to reclaim. From Boom to Bust – Pattaya battles to win back Chinese tourists lost to Vietnam According to recent TAT’s report, in March 2025, only 300,000 Chinese tourists visited Thailand, while Vietnam welcomed 670,000 Chinese tourists, surpassing Thailand for the first time in this market segment. One major factor is cost. Travel to Thailand has become noticeably more expensive in the post-pandemic world, with hotel prices, dining, and day-to-day expenses in tourist hotspots like Pattaya exceeding what many Chinese travelers are comfortable with. In contrast, Vietnam offers similar beach vibes, cultural experiences, and shopping options—at roughly 30% lower prices. Safety concerns have also played a role in deterring Chinese tourists from visiting Pattaya. High-profile incidents involving Chinese nationals in Thailand, including cases of extortion and kidnapping, have raised apprehensions about personal security. These incidents have been widely reported and have influenced travel decisions, leading tourists to seek destinations perceived as safer. In response to the declining numbers, Pattaya’s tourism authorities have initiated strategic plans to attract Chinese tourists back. These include organizing a “MEGA FAM Trip” to invite 400 Chinese agents and media representatives to Thailand, launching charter flights to facilitate travel, and conducting promotional campaigns to rebuild confidence in Pattaya as a safe and desirable destination. As Pattaya implements these measures, the city aims to restore its appeal to Chinese tourists and revitalize its tourism sector amidst growing regional competition.