KALASIN — A 47-year-old man from Nong E Tao Subdistrict in Yang Talat District tragically died on May 20, 2025, after being attacked by a swarm of bees while foraging in a community forest. The man, identified as Mr. Somklai, was a known local bee hunter. Authorities believe he was stung hundreds of times while attempting to flee, ultimately succumbing to the venom before he could escape.
The incident occurred during the early afternoon, around 2:30 p.m., amid heavy rainfall. Emergency responders from the Samakkhi Katanyu Kalasin Rescue Association received a report from Yang Talat Police Station that a body had been found near Wat Pa Non Sawan, in Ban Non Sawan village, located within the same district. Rescue volunteers, along with a physician from Yang Talat Hospital and a police investigation team, arrived at the scene to examine the body and determine the cause of death.
According to initial findings, the deceased was found lying on his back near his motorcycle, drenched by the rain. He was dressed in a long-sleeved shirt and pants, and carried tools typically used for hunting forest products. His right hand still gripped the key to his motorcycle. The body bore numerous visible sting marks, with bee stingers embedded in various parts of his body including his arms, legs, neck, and head.
Relatives told authorities that Mr. Somklai had left home at around 10 a.m. that day to search for wild bee nests in the forest, a task he undertook regularly. When he failed to return, his absence raised concerns. It was not until another villager entered the forest to collect wild produce that his body was discovered. Local officials were then notified to investigate.
Preliminary conclusions from the autopsy indicated that the cause of death was due to a high volume of bee stings. It is believed Mr. Somklai disturbed a hive, prompting the aggressive swarm. Authorities estimate that he had been dead for one to two hours before his body was found.
The Samakkhi Katanyu Kalasin Rescue Association has since urged residents to exercise increased caution when entering forests, especially during the rainy season when people often forage for seasonal products like wild mushrooms and honey. The group warned against venturing alone and reminded the public of the risks posed by venomous creatures, including bees and snakes.
The body was returned to his home in Ban Dong Noi, Village 4, where family members will hold religious rites. In a statement, Mr. Chaiyaphon Watchara-udomkul, President of the Samakkhi Katanyu Kalasin Rescue Association, called the incident a stark reminder of the dangers associated with traditional foraging practices and emphasized the importance of awareness and preparedness.
