It’s hard to imagine that some of the most shocking crimes of 2025 happened right here in our backyard—across cities, towns, and communities in Southeast and East Asia. These aren’t just news headlines from far-off places; they are real stories of violence, betrayal, and bravery that struck a chord with families, businesses, and institutions across the ASEAN region.
From train hijackings in Pakistan and mall shootings in Malaysia, to religious scandals in Thailand and ransom killings in the Philippines, these crimes have not only shaken public confidence but also sparked conversations about security, mental health, and trust in society.
But in between these chilling events, there’s another side—of heroes who stood up, communities that came together, and authorities who acted swiftly to bring justice. Let’s take a closer look at 7 chilling crime stories of 2025 that left a lasting impact on the ASEAN region and beyond.
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1. Jaffar Express Train Hijacked by Baloch Militants in Pakistan
On March 11, militants from the Balochistan Liberation Army seized control of the Jaffar Express train, which carried over 400 passengers through a remote mountain tunnel. The attackers used explosives and gunfire to force the train to stop. Many hostages endured ethnic sorting and execution-style killings. Pakistani security forces launched “Operation Green Bolan,” ultimately freeing 354 hostages, but at a high cost: 21 passengers and four soldiers were killed, along with all 33 militants.
2. Mass Shooting at Setia City Mall in Malaysia
On February 8, a gunman identified as 35-year-old Yap Chin Boon opened fire in Shah Alam’s Setia City Mall, injuring a janitor and causing panic among shoppers. The suspect fled, hijacked a family car at gunpoint, and was finally shot dead by police during a raid ten days later. The incident raised questions about mental health, public safety, and emergency response in crowded urban centers.
3. Scandal Rocks Thailand’s Buddhist Clergy
In July, a major scandal erupted when Wilawan Emsawat was arrested for allegedly seducing and extorting senior monks using intimate recordings. Over 385 million baht—the equivalent of $11.9 million USD—was traced to her bank accounts. At least nine monks were defrocked, prompting calls for stricter oversight and financial transparency within Thailand’s religious institutions.
4. Train Hijacking in Pakistan Sparks Regional Alarm
Beyond the traumatic events aboard the Jaffar Express, the incident sparked regional outrage and global condemnation. The use of suicide bombers, hostage executions, and ethnic targeting highlighted militant tactics and serious security vulnerabilities. International reactions included condemnation from the UN, China, and other governments.
5. Live-Streamed Lynching of Chinese Vlogger in China
A Tibetan content creator known as Ms. Lamu was brutally attacked and set on fire by her ex-husband while broadcasting live to her Douyin followers. She suffered burns over 90% of her body and later died from the injuries. The tragedy ignited national outrage and viral hashtags before censorship cut off the digital trail.
6. Kidnapping and Murder of Filipino-Chinese Businessman
In March, businessman Anson Que and his driver were found dead in Rizal, the Philippines, suffocated and left in a nylon bag. Despite family payments of about ₱100 million (USD 1.75 million) in ransom, both were killed. The case triggered widespread criticism from major Filipino business groups and cast a spotlight on kidnapping for ransom in Southeast Asia.
7. Filicide and Homemade Bomb Plot in South Korea
On July 20 in Incheon, a 63-year-old man fatally shot his adult son and fled. Police later discovered he had set up homemade bombs in his home, forcing mass evacuations. He was arrested hours later. The disturbing case highlighted growing concerns about mental health and family violence in South Korea.
Why This Matters
These crimes hit close to home not just because of their cruelty, but because they happened in places we all know: malls, buses, homes, and temples. In 2025, ASEAN saw how betrayal and violence can strike anywhere. But we also saw courage—people stepping in to help, investigators exposing the truth. These stories remind us that keeping our communities safe isn’t just about laws; it’s about all of us staying aware, speaking up, and standing together.
