KANCHANABURI, Thailand – A large tree fell onto a bus, carrying 30 passengers, along the Kanchanaburi-Srisawat Road, injuring nine European tourists on January 3. Authorities suspect that illegal loggers cut down the tree, which caused it to fall onto the vehicle. The incident occurred on Highway 3199 in the Tamanao area, where the bus, traveling from Kanchanaburi to Erawan, was struck by the fallen tree, breaking the windshield.
The injured passengers, consisting of both men and women, suffered from broken glass and branches, particularly on their arms, legs, and faces. The injured were taken to a nearby private hospital, with most receiving medical treatment and being discharged.
Upon investigating the tree, officials determined that it had not fallen naturally but appeared to have been deliberately felled using a chainsaw. Sawdust found at the base of the tree further confirmed this suspicion. Authorities quickly launched an operation and apprehended a suspect, a 39-year-old man from Phitsanulok, in possession of a chainsaw and equipment for cutting trees.
The suspect, named Wasin, is believed to be part of a logging operation that caused the tree to fall and injure the tourists. Investigations are ongoing to confirm the connection between the incident and the illegal tree cutting. Governor Athisan Intra of Kanchanaburi has instructed local officials to thoroughly investigate the matter.
