Terrifying House Fire Breaks Out During Chinese New Year, 3 Residents Injured by Smoke

On February 16, 2024, Police Lieutenant Pornchai Chuanual from Betong Police Station was notified of a fire at the Charoen Phanitr shop in the Betong Municipal area. Firefighters arrived to find flames rapidly spreading to the second floor, where numerous cardboard boxes were stored. The fire took over an hour to control, with three residents suffering minor smoke inhalation but otherwise safe. Neighbors reported initially thinking someone was burning ritual paper for Chinese New Year before seeing significant smoke billowing from the building. The fire is believed to have started from unattended incense during New Year rituals, quickly spreading through flammable merchandise. Rescue units from Muslim rescue services and local foundations assisted in transporting the residents for medical observation.