Ant Nest Sparks Devastating Fire at Former Political Candidate's Home

CHAIYAPHUM — On February 11, 2026, a house in Chaiyaphum province was completely destroyed by fire in the early morning hours after an electrical short circuit, reportedly caused by ants nesting inside a power socket. The fire broke out around 04:00 at house number 155 in Moo 17, Chilong subdistrict, and was attended by fire engines from local administrative organizations and rescue workers. The single-storey wooden house, belonging to Soshoch Su Non Tat, a 67-year-old retired teacher and former parliamentary candidate, was engulfed in flames that began in an office and music teaching room. Soshoch's son discovered the fire while using the bathroom and immediately called emergency services. Preliminary investigations suggest red ants had constructed a dense nest inside an electrical socket, which triggered the short circuit. The fire destroyed numerous musical instruments, computer equipment, and an air-conditioning unit. The total damage was estimated at over 400,000 baht. Police are conducting a forensic investigation to confirm the exact cause of the fire.