Thailand News

Thailand upgrades regional airports and airline incentives

Transport

Thailand upgrades regional airports and airline incentives

Thailand's Civil Aviation Authority (CAAT) is upgrading provincial airport infrastructure and airspace management under a "Small Airports, High Standards" policy, as passenger demand and direct flights from Europe increase.

The programme aims to make regional airports stronger links for trade, tourism and investment, while the Department of Airports (DOA) is offering airlines a 50% reduction in landing and parking charges for new services.

Traffic rises as routes change

Thailand handled 85.16 million air passengers between January and July 2026, a year-on-year increase of 1.48%, despite geopolitical volatility. Domestic traffic rose 1.64% to 39.26 million passengers, while international travel was up 1.34% to 45.91 million.

The DOA's regional airport network served more than 14.2 million passengers in 2025. Six hubs identified as having high potential - Surat Thani, Ubon Ratchathani, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Udon Thani and Krabi - each handled an average of 2,500 to 5,000 passengers a day.



International flight movements fell 1.63% to 263,598, attributed to disruption in Middle Eastern airspace. However, direct long-haul services between Thailand and Europe rose 9.02% year-on-year to 16,998 flights in the first seven months of 2026.

CAAT said this suggested airlines and passengers were increasingly choosing direct point-to-point journeys instead of connections through the Middle East. That trend may be particularly relevant to European tourists, retirees and long-stay residents seeking simpler travel options.

Standards tailored to each airport

Air Chief Marshal Manat Chavanaprayoon, CAAT's director, said air travel growth was no longer limited to major hubs and well-known tourist centres.

"Regional airports are vital infrastructure linking regional businesses, tourists, and local communities to the global network," he said.



The regulator's plan has four parts: airport infrastructure and safety upgrades matched to local traffic volumes; stronger airspace and traffic management; Aerodrome Flight Information Services tailored to individual airfields; and faster processing of new routes alongside strict checks on aircraft, crews and airline safety procedures.

"The essence of 'Small Airports, High Standards' is that airports do not need to grow identically," ACM Manat added. "They must develop in line with their local potential and economic role, grounded in uncompromised safety standards."

Six months to a year of fee relief

The DOA's "Airport For Regional Development" scheme runs from 10 August 2026 to 9 August 2027. It cuts landing and parking fees by half for domestic and international carriers operating at regional airports.

New airlines entering regional hubs can receive the discount for six months. Operators launching new routes can receive it for a full year.


Pictures courtesy of The Nation

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24 August 2026

• Aviation

• 0 comments
• 67 views

Georgealbert

8 hours ago8 hr

Thai woman loses 100,000 baht in Korean AI romance scam

Central Thailand

Thai woman loses 100,000 baht in Korean AI romance scam

A single Thai woman aged almost 60 is believed to have lost almost 100,000 baht after falling for an alleged online romance scam involving a Korean man whose images may have been created or altered using AI.

The scam was stopped before a further transfer of 18,000 baht when the man claimed he was being held by Thai Immigration and needed money to resolve the problem.

The case was shared on Facebook on 23 August 2026 by Eamorn Dechthawisut, owner of the Luk Sao Nai Dam wholesale shop, in Uthai Thani Province. She said the woman is a close acquaintance who had repeatedly brought cash to the shop for bank transfers.

Large transfers prompted concern

According to Eamorn, the woman would not initially say who was receiving the money or where she had obtained the substantial sums, telling her: "You don't need to know."

During the previous week, she asked Eamorn to transfer 18,000 baht, saying it was for her niece. She had already made two or three transfers of between 30,000 to 40,000 baht each.

Eamorn estimated the overall losses at close to 100,000 baht and began to suspect that her friend was being targeted by fraudsters.

After initially refusing to show her phone, the woman eventually allowed Eamorn to read the chat messages. The online contact used photographs of a handsome man, believed to be Korean, and repeatedly called her "darling" while making romantic promises.

Eamorn suspected the images had been generated or manipulated by AI. The woman, however, remained convinced the man was genuine and believed he would travel to Thailand so they could live together.

Immigration story raised alarm

The latest request for money was based on a claim that the Korean man had been detained at an Immigration office. He allegedly said he needed urgent financial help and would repay all the money later.

Rather than make the transfer, Eamorn offered to take a van to collect him and deliver the money directly to the location. The chat contact became angry, replying in effect: "Why are you making this difficult? Who is interfering? Just transfer the money."

Eamorn also said the writing style and tone changed during the exchange. Another person then claimed to be the man's supervisor.

She showed the woman examples of AI-generated images depicting people in handcuffs, under arrest and entering prison, explaining that pictures cannot be treated as proof that someone has been detained.

Eamorn said she shared the case to warn social media users, particularly older people and those living alone, not to send money to strangers who quickly build an online romantic relationship.


Picture courtesy of Daily News

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24 August 2026

• Crime

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• 89 views

Georgealbert

9 hours ago9 hr

Thai-French boy, 12, impresses at boxing camp

Isaan

Thai-French boy, 12, impresses at boxing camp

A 12-year-old Thai-French boy from Khong Chiam district in Ubon Ratchathani has drawn attention after showing strong boxing ability during training with former Thailand national boxer Amnat Ruenroeng.

The boy, Tony, is in P6 and travelled to the Johnny camp in Ubon Ratchathani with his French father and Thai mother. His father is a former amateur boxer.

Tony's family lives in Khong Chiam, where they heard that Amnat was sharing his boxing knowledge with young people at the camp. They subsequently brought their son to train under the former national fighter.



Training with adult boxers

During a sparring session, Tony tested himself against adult boxers of a similar weight, including Amnat. Those present at the camp said he displayed notable punch selection, movement and timing, as well as unusually heavy punching power for his age.

The young boxer was said to have impressed onlookers with his aggressive style and physical strength. Some have described him as a potential "white elephant of Khong Chiam" - a Thai expression for a rare and promising talent.


Pictures courtesy of Daily News

Amnat, a former Thai national boxer, is currently training and rebuilding his fitness at the Johnny camp. He has also been passing on the skills gained during his sporting career to children and young people interested in boxing.

The coaching has reportedly attracted local parents, who have continued bringing their children to the camp for training.

Online supporters call for further training

Followers of Amnat's online training updates praised Tony's performance and suggested he should train seriously at the camp to develop his skills for higher-level competition.

Some supporters also speculated that continued coaching could one day give him a chance of reaching the Thailand national team.

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24 August 2026

• Community

• 3 comments
• 69 views

Georgealbert

9 hours ago9 hr

Thai-China rail stage retains 2030 opening target

Transport

Thai-China rail stage retains 2030 opening target

Thailand's Transport Ministry is still aiming to open the Bangkok-Nakhon Ratchasima high-speed railway in 2030, despite construction running 34.5 percentage points behind schedule.

The 250.77-kilometre first phase of the Thai-Chinese high-speed rail project has reached 56% completion, against planned cumulative progress of 90.5%, according to Kampol Boonchom, chief engineer for special projects and construction at the State Railway of Thailand (SRT).

The route is split into 14 civil works contracts. Deputy Transport Minister Siripong Angkasakulkiat said the ministry believed work could be accelerated enough to meet the 2030 target, with the line intended to improve both passenger journeys and freight transport.

Shared airport rail section awaits decision

Several contracts have yet to begin, including Contract 4-1 for the Bang Sue-Don Mueang section. This includes structures shared with the proposed three-airport high-speed railway linking Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi and U-Tapao airports.

Siripong said officials expected a decision on the way forward by the end of 2026. "We have to see how the EEC committee responds to the proposed amendment to the public-private partnership agreement and how the three-airport project will proceed," he said.

The SRT could re-tender the shared structure under Contract 4-1 and build it independently, in an effort to avoid further disruption to the Thai-Chinese project. Siripong said building it first would support both the Thai-Chinese route and a high-speed connection between Don Mueang and Suvarnabhumi.

Siripong inspected Contract 4-7, covering the Saraburi-Kaeng Khoi section and Saraburi Station, alongside Saraburi Governor Bancha Chaowarin and Department of Rail Transport director-general Pichet Kunadhamraks. Kampol, SRT executives and agency representatives briefed the delegation on progress.

Saraburi work also behind plan

Contract 4-7 covers 12.99 kilometres between Saraburi and Kaeng Khoi. It is 73.25% complete, compared with scheduled cumulative progress of 81.50%, leaving it 8.25 percentage points behind plan.

Installation of segments is 86% complete, while balance-beam construction stands at 33% and switch-beam work at 68%.

Saraburi high-speed rail station, in Takut subdistrict of Mueang Saraburi district, will be an elevated four-level facility. The first level will contain entrances and long-distance train platforms; the second will have ticketing for high-speed and long-distance services; the third will be a waiting area; and high-speed platforms will be on the fourth level.

The station will have two 450-metre platforms and four tracks. Its construction has reached 29%, against planned progress of 47%, a shortfall of 18 percentage points.

Safety priority near live rail lines

Siripong instructed the SRT to prioritise safety, especially at sites near operating railways and public routes. He called for strict precautions to prevent accidents and reduce impacts on nearby communities.

The SRT was also told to closely monitor tunnel areas, conduct safety inspections, and prepare preventive and emergency-response plans. The authority said it would continue to accelerate work while meeting required standards for future services at Saraburi Station.


Picture courtesy of The Nation

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24 August 2026

• China

• 2 comments
• 66 views

Georgealbert

9 hours ago9 hr

Australian murder accused claims self-defence in Pattaya

Pattaya

Australian murder accused claims self-defence in Pattaya

Australian national Simon Peter Carman, 45, has denied murdering Thai teenager Tunchanok Donhomla in Pattaya, telling the ABC news, he acted in self-defence during a struggle in which he claims she pulled a knife.

Carman, who has been held at Pattaya Remand Prison since his arrest on June 27, said he had pleaded not guilty to all four charges against him, including murder, concealing a corpse and abducting a minor for indecent purposes.

"I have not done anything wrong. I shouldn't be here ... I do not understand what's going on," he told ABC Foreign Correspondent in his first media interview since his arrest.

Carman said he was "hoping and praying" to be released. If convicted of murder, he faces either the death penalty or life imprisonment.

Carman describes alleged struggle

Police allege Carman picked up 17-year-old Tunchanok, known to family and friends as Cake, on Pattaya's Beach Road in the early hours of June 25 before killing her and disposing of her body.

CCTV showed the pair entering the lifts at Carman's condominium building holding hands. Later footage showed Carman dragging a large suitcase from the building and carrying it on a motorcycle at night.

Two days later, police found Tunchanok's body in the suitcase near railway tracks close to Carman's accommodation. He was arrested at Bangkok's international airport while attempting to board a flight to Perth.



Carman said he met Tunchanok while she was with two friends, and that she followed him home. He said he did not know why she did so, and claimed he believed she was aged between about 25 and 35.

He told the ABC he gave her 500 baht "for nothing", after which she demanded more money and allegedly pulled a knife. Carman said he repeatedly told her to put it down during a physical struggle.

"All I was trying to do was restrain her from stabbing me," he said, adding that she eventually "went limp". He said he did not call an ambulance or anyone else because he did not trust police.

Police file to go to prosecutors

Pattaya Police Colonel Anek Srathongyoo said investigators would submit their file to Pattaya prosecutors this week. Prosecutors will then have until September 18 to indict Carman.

Police say an autopsy concluded Tunchanok died from suffocation. Colonel Anek said she had suffered a brain injury and had no other injuries, while Carman's DNA was matched to DNA found on her body.

Tunchanok's father, Thongchai Donhomla, said he wanted the harshest punishment, either life imprisonment or death, saying he was deeply heartbroken and wanted justice for his daughter.

Carman told the ABC he did not yet have a lawyer and had received no visitors other than Australian embassy officials.

The exclusive 30 minute interview was conducted under a prison guard's watch. The ABC said it was the first foreign media organisation in at least 15 years allowed to interview a foreign inmate in a Thai prison. Officials reviewed footage for security reasons and prison conditions could not be discussed.

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Video and picture courtesy of ABC News

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24 August 2026

• Latest Update

• 69 comments
• 2,054 views

Georgealbert

20 hours ago20 hr

Koh Pha Ngan land action targets 112 companies

Koh Samui

Koh Pha Ngan land action targets 112 companies

Surat Thani authorities are moving to revoke land rights held by 112 companies on Koh Pha Ngan after finding their foreign shareholdings exceeded limits set by law.

Governor Jumpot Wannachatsiri has instructed officials to take action against the landholdings, as part of an ongoing scrutiny of corporate ownership of land on the island.

The cases involve 124 land plots with a combined area of about 87 rai. While the announcement concerns companies rather than individual property owners, it is a reminder for foreign investors and expats using Thai companies to hold land that authorities are examining ownership structures on Koh Pha Ngan.

More than 1,800 landholding entities checked

Officials reviewed 1,832 entities holding land on the island. Of those, 93.9% were classified as general entities.

A further 5.7%, representing 112 entities, were found to have foreign shareholdings above the legal threshold. Another 0.4% had previously been ordered by the governor to dispose of land.

Of the 112 companies now identified, 104 were uncovered during inspections. The remaining eight had already been the subject of court rulings.

Thailand generally restricts foreign ownership of land, although foreigners may have rights to occupy or use property through certain legal arrangements. The current action is focused on companies whose shareholding arrangements were found to exceed the limit prescribed by law.

Disposal orders under way

Officials are considering disposal orders for 28 of the companies. Another 76 cases are under review by the Koh Pha Ngan branch land office before being submitted for disposal proceedings.

Jumpot has already issued disposal orders against eight entities, covering nine land plots.

Relevant agencies will continue to investigate and follow up the remaining cases within the timeframes required by law, according to officials. They said the measures were intended to protect national interests.

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24 August 2026

• Crime

• 17 comments
• 226 views

Georgealbert

20 hours ago20 hr

Missing Russian woman found safe in Bangkok

Bangkok

Missing Russian woman found safe in Bangkok

Thai tourist police have found a 20-year-old Russian woman safe at a  condominium in Bangkok after her family reported that he had been unable to contact her.

Anna Gorshkova, who had previously been staying in the Pattaya area, was located in the Phetchaburi-Rama area of the capital on 23 August 2026. Police said she had not been detained or harmed and had chosen to stay with friends without informing her family.

Kirill Gorshkova, filed a missing-person report on 21 August 2026, at Na Jomtien Police Station after losing contact with her. The lack of communication had caused considerable concern for the family.

Pattaya and Bangkok officers coordinated search

Pattaya Tourist Police worked with Na Jomtien officers to trace Anna's movements following the report. Their investigation established that she had travelled to Bangkok and was staying at a condominium in the Phetchaburi-Rama district.



The Bangkok follow-up was handled by officers from Investigation Subdivision 1 of Tourist Police Division 1, alongside Pattaya Tourist Police.

After checking the information received, officers found Anna at the condominium and confirmed she was safe.

No crime reported

Police said Anna had separated from her family to spend time with friends, but had not told them where she was or kept in contact. Authorities found no indication that she had been confined or assaulted.

The Royal Thai Police said the response had reassured Anna's family and reflected its commitment to the safety and welfare of overseas visitors in Thailand.


Pictures courtesy of SiamRath

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24 August 2026

• Latest Update

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Georgealbert

20 hours ago20 hr

Tourists Accused of Dine-and-Dash Over 8,000-Baht Patong Bill

Phuket

Tourists Accused of Dine-and-Dash Over 8,000-Baht Patong Bill

Patong police are investigating a restaurant payment dispute involving four foreign tourists who allegedly refused to pay an 8,000-baht food and drinks bill before trying to leave.

The group was said to include one male tourist from Saudi Arabia and three female tourists from Morocco. Both sides were taken to an investigating officer for formal proceedings under Thai law.

Restaurant staff seek police help

The case drew attention on social media after a Thai woman working at the restaurant lodged a complaint, according to Patong Police.

She told officers that the group had ordered food and drinks at the Patong venue, but would not settle the bill when it was presented. The tourists then reportedly walked away from the restaurant without paying, leading staff to call for police assistance.

Officers from Patong Police Station went to the scene and met the complainant.

Police attempted to mediate between the restaurant and the tourists, but no agreement was reached. Authorities did not say what the dispute over the bill was about.

Matter moves to formal proceedings

With mediation unsuccessful, police escorted the restaurant representative and the tourists to the investigating officer so the case could proceed through the formal legal process.

Patong Police said the matter would be dealt with under legal procedures intended to ensure fairness for all involved. The final outcome will resolve by a court if agreement is not reached.

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24 August 2026

• Crime

• 26 comments
• 1,931 views

Georgealbert

20 hours ago20 hr

Suvarnabhumi investigates 600,000-baht baggage loss

Bangkok

Suvarnabhumi investigates 600,000-baht baggage loss

Suvarnabhumi Airport is investigating after a passenger reported that belongings valued at around 600,000 baht were missing from a checked suitcase following a flight from Bangkok to Krabi.

The passenger said on social media that they travelled on Thai VietJet flight VZ342 from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Krabi on August 21. On arrival, they reportedly found that the suitcase appeared to have been opened and damaged, with valuables missing.

For foreign visitors and residents using domestic connections from Bangkok, the case is a reminder to keep high-value items, travel documents, medication and electronics in cabin baggage where airline rules allow.

Airport reviews baggage-handling records

Suvarnabhumi Airport said on August 22 that it had opened an inquiry and was working with Thai VietJet, the airline's ground-handling provider and other relevant agencies to establish what happened.

Airport officials examined system records and CCTV footage covering the suitcase's route through Suvarnabhumi's baggage-handling system. The airport said its review found no irregularities during the period when the bag was under its responsibility.

According to Suvarnabhumi Airport, the suitcase passed through its Explosives Detection System, (EDS), and received a "CLEAR" status. This meant no dangerous objects or explosives were detected and the bag did not require a manual security inspection.

The bag was then sent to the baggage sorting area, where Pattaya Aviation Company Limited handled loading on behalf of Thai VietJet.

Thai VietJet contacts passenger

Thai VietJet has contacted the passenger and will continue to assist them while further checks are carried out under the relevant procedures, the airport said.

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Video courtesy of Suvarnabhumi Airport

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24 August 2026

• Aviation

• 22 comments
• 1,684 views

Georgealbert

20 hours ago20 hr

Nene Royal appears on Times Square screen before AGT

Phuket

Nene Royal appears on Times Square screen before AGT

Thai singer Nene Royal has appeared on a large LED screen in New York's Times Square ahead of the live-show stage of America's Got Talent Season 21.

The display was part of a campaign by CP, which placed Nene Royal on the screen at the famous New York tourist district to encourage her before the competition's live rounds.

Nene Royal, whose real name is Rattikan Amloy, has progressed through the Judges' Callbacks to reach the Live Shows after performing Muse's Hysteria.

Support message in New York

A TikTok user named Ka Jame shared an image of themselves in front of the display. The LED screen carried the message: "Thailand's Pride Nene Go Go".



In the accompanying post, Ka Jame said that Nene and 100 lucky winners had created history in Times Square, adding that they were proud of Thai people.

The post also offered encouragement for the singer's upcoming appearance, saying it hoped she would do her best, enjoy the stage and leave the judges amazed. It added that Thai people across the country were supporting her.

Times Square is one of New York City's best-known visitor areas, and the display gives Thai fans and supporters a high-profile show of backing before Nene's next television appearance.


Picture courtesy of The Nation

Live show begins on 26 August

The next round of America's Got Talent Season 21 is due to begin at 7am Thailand time on Wednesday, 26 August.

Nene's advance to the live shows followed her performance of Hysteria, originally recorded by British rock band Muse. The live rounds will determine whether she continues further in the competition.

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24 August 2026

• Entertainment

• 0 comments
• 184 views

Georgealbert

20 hours ago20 hr

Thailand, Australia boost drug-smuggling enforcement

Crime

Thailand, Australia boost drug-smuggling enforcement

Thailand Customs and the Australian Border Force (ABF) have agreed to step up joint action against transnational drug-smuggling networks, including real-time intelligence exchanges, cargo checks and detector dog deployments.

The strengthened arrangement follows a Joint Statement on Transnational Crime signed during Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's official visit to Australia from 17 to 20 August 2026. Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas was also part of the delegation.

Phantong Loykulnanta, director-general of the Thai Customs Department, joined the high-level visit and met ABF leadership to put the political agreement into practical enforcement measures.

"The policy agreement signed between Thailand and Australia demonstrates a firm commitment to suppressing cross-border syndicates," Phantong said. "Thai Customs is rigorously implementing these directives, with a primary focus on collaborative narcotics interdiction."

More intelligence and targeted checks

The two agencies have worked together for some time, but the latest talks set out an upgraded operational framework aimed at producing measurable results against organised crime.



It will include the sharing of live information on emerging smuggling routes, concealment techniques and risk alerts between agencies. Customs officers will also coordinate risk profiling for high-risk passenger movements and freight shipments.

Thailand Customs and the ABF plan to use advanced data analysis and non-intrusive inspection technology to improve detection rates. Their cooperation will also extend to joint training for K-9 detector units and integrated operations intended to target criminal networks from source to destination.

Focus on Southeast Asia-Australasia routes

The ABF commended Thai Customs for its existing intelligence-sharing work, saying close cooperation had directly helped increase narcotics seizures and arrests in Australia.

Officials expect the enhanced system to improve enforcement across key air and maritime transit routes between Southeast Asia and Australasia. The stated aim is to interrupt supply chains before illegal drugs reach destination markets.

The agreement puts particular emphasis on combining information, technology and on-the-ground inspections, rather than relying on checks at a single border point. It also signals continued scrutiny of freight and passenger routes used by cross-border criminal syndicates.


Pictures courtesy of The Nation

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24 August 2026

• Australia

• 3 comments
• 68 views

Georgealbert

20 hours ago20 hr

Young man attacked by group in Pattaya street clash

Pattaya

Young man attacked by group in Pattaya street clash

A young Thai man was injured after being attacked by a group of men in Pattaya, following an alleged confrontation with passers-by, convenience store staff and app-based motorcycle riders.

The footage, shared online and reported to journalists at 1.20am on 23 August 2026, was said to have been recorded opposite Soi Bongkot 6/3 in Pattaya

The video shows several men in a scuffle with the young man, while bystanders and motorcycle taxi drivers attempt to stop the assault and separate those involved.

Witness describes events before fight

Somphot Meelab, 45, a motorcycle taxi driver seen in the video who helped intervene, said the young man had earlier been outside a convenience store.

According to Somphot, the man was shouting, challenging people walking past and behaving inappropriately towards staff inside the shop. He then left the area to return to his accommodation.

Somphot said the man later walked past a group of Bolt motorcycle riders and again allegedly challenged them and behaved inappropriately. He said the two sides did not know each other and had no previous dispute.

He stated that a confrontation then developed, with about six or seven men attacking the young man. Some people present attempted to break up the fight, Somphot said.

He added that he went in to separate the parties. The injured man later returned to his accommodation, while the group of men dispersed and went back to work.

Police say no complaint has been filed

Investigators at Pattaya City Police Station said checks covering the duty period, found no report from an injured person or complainant connected to the incident.

Police said the matter remains under examination because the social media footage shows only part of what happened. Officers have not established who started the confrontation or what caused it.

They said statements from those involved, witnesses and other evidence will be needed before the facts can be fully determined and any legal process can proceed.

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24 August 2026

• Crime

• 5 comments
• 282 views

Georgealbert

20 hours ago20 hr

Thailand proposes changes for parole eligibility

Politics

Thailand proposes changes for parole eligibility

Thailand's Justice Ministry is drafting tougher rules that would require prisoners sentenced to death or life imprisonment to spend far longer in jail before they can be considered for prisoner-classification upgrades, parole or other sentence-reduction benefits.

Under the draft regulation, death-row prisoners would need to serve at least 25 years before being considered for a classification upgrade. Those serving life sentences would have to complete at least 20 years, from reports on Sunday 23 August 2026, citing a senior Justice Ministry source

The proposal follows public scrutiny of the release of former drug kingpin Laota Saenlee. His life sentence was reduced through a series of royal pardons and he was released after serving a little over nine years in prison.

New minimum terms for serious offenders

The Justice Ministry source said the proposed minimum periods are intended as a public-safety measure, ensuring people convicted of the most serious crimes remain in prison for substantial periods before becoming eligible for sentence reductions or parole.

A government working group is reviewing the proposal as part of a wider examination of criminal-sentence enforcement and ways to prevent repeat offending. Officials say the framework would set clearer minimum prison terms for serious offenders and help strengthen public confidence in the justice system.

At its first meeting on Friday, the group examined prison policies in several countries. Data presented to the panel showed that serious offenders in Thailand can currently become eligible for certain benefits after an average of eight to 15 years.

The comparative figures were about 20 to 25 years in the United States, 15 to 30 years in the United Kingdom and 15 years in Germany.

Cases covered by the proposed rules

The proposed restrictions would also cover corruption, political and national-security cases where courts impose death or life sentences. Prisoners in those cases would be classified in the highest-risk category and could not be considered for advancement, sentence reductions or parole until they had served the new minimum term.

Less serious offenders would remain under the current regulations.

The draft additionally sets minimum terms for serious multi-count convictions under Section 91 of the Criminal Code. Prisoners would have to serve at least five years where combined sentences are up to 10 years, 10 years for combined sentences of up to 20 years, and 20 years for combined sentences of up to 50 years.

The working group is due to meet again on Monday 24 August 2026, before submitting the draft to the Corrections Committee for approval.


Picture courtesy of Daily News

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24 August 2026

• Crime

• 1 comment
• 83 views

Georgealbert

20 hours ago20 hr

Australian's Bangkok ICU care costs $50,000 a week

Australia

Australian's Bangkok ICU care costs $50,000 a week

An Australian man is in a coma in a Bangkok intensive care unit following an accident in Thailand, with his family saying his medical bills have already exceeded $135,000.

Sydney model and Copini Beauty co-founder Casey James said her father had undergone multiple emergency brain operations and had spent 10 days in the ICU as of Sunday, 23 August.

James, 28, said she received a call from Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs telling her that her father had been involved in an accident and was in a Bangkok ICU.

"Within two hours, my husband and I were on a flight to Thailand," she wrote on Instagram.

She gave not further details of the accident, but did state that her father had previously survived a serious motorcycle crash in March 2025, pulling through, after the hospital had described his injuries as life threatening.

Family faces uncertain wait in Bangkok

James said the extent of her father's future needs was not yet known, but described him as "one hell of a fighter".



"My dad has been in a coma for ten days and counting. What his future looks like is unknown," she wrote.

She added that her mother's 57th birthday fell on the day of her post, saying she was sitting in the ICU while remembering her mother, who had died from cancer.

James urged others to hold loved ones close, saying life could change "in a blink of an eye".

ICU and medical evacuation costs mount

A GoFundMe appeal started by James's cousin, Bridgette Pereira, is seeking $250,000 to help cover the man's treatment. It had received well over $36,000 in donations by Sunday.

In a note on the fundraising page, James said more than $135,000 had already been incurred for emergency brain surgery and continuing ICU care.



"The cost of keeping Dad in the ICU is approximately $50,000 per week, and the cost of transporting him safely home to Australia is expected to be around $500,000," she wrote.

Those sums do not include long-term care and rehabilitation expected after he returns to Australia. James said the family had been told he was likely to need ongoing medical support, potentially for life.

A warning over medical cover in Thailand

The case underlines the potentially substantial cost of emergency private hospital treatment and medical evacuation for foreign visitors and residents in Thailand. James has not stated whether her father held travel or health insurance.

Foreigners arranging travel insurance should check the policy's cover for emergency treatment, intensive care, pre-existing conditions and repatriation, as medical evacuation can involve specialist staff and equipment.


Pictures courtesy of Daily Mall

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24 August 2026

• Accident

• 68 comments
• 4,640 views

Georgealbert

21 hours ago21 hr

Thailand amnesty law takes effect after Royal Gazette notice

Politics

Thailand amnesty law takes effect after Royal Gazette notice

A broad amnesty law covering political cases dating back two decades took effect in Thailand on Sunday, August 23, 2026, after receiving His Majesty the King's endorsement and being published in the Royal Gazette.

The legislation is intended to address long-running political conflict and promote national reconciliation. It could benefit hundreds of activists, with one analyst estimating that between 1,000 and 2,000 people may qualify.

Who can benefit under the law

The amnesty applies to people involved in political rallies or who expressed political opinions where their actions arose from political conflict or political motivations. Its coverage runs from January 1, 2005, to July 16, 2025.

It includes members of the royalist Yellow Shirts and Red Shirts, supporters of former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, whose rival movements clashed repeatedly over the past 20 years. Youth protesters involved in the pro-democracy demonstrations of 2020 and 2021 are also covered.

Yutthaporn Issarachai, an analyst at Sukhothai University, told AFP that it was Thailand's largest amnesty because it spans 20 years.

Most people affected have already completed their sentences. However, the law removes restrictions that prevented them from standing for political office, Yutthaporn said.

New trials involving political activists will also be halted where the alleged offences are not among the exemptions. "The bill does not mean to erase their guilt but will return their political rights," Yutthaporn said.

Lese majeste and corruption convictions excluded

The law does not apply to people convicted under Thailand's lese majeste law, which protects His Majesty the King and the Royal Family from criticism. As a result, many leaders of the youth-led protests calling for monarchy reform will not benefit.

Corruption convictions are also excluded. This means the amnesty does not apply to Thaksin, who was released from prison in June under a Royal pardon after serving eight months of a one-year sentence for corruption and abuse of power.

Civil claims are unaffected. Yutthaporn said Yellow Shirt members found guilty of closing airports would still have to pay compensation.

The law is part of Thailand's continuing effort to resolve divisions that have shaped politics since Thaksin was elected prime minister in 2001 and again in 2005, before going into exile following the 2006 military coup.

Thaksin's Pheu Thai party and its predecessors were the country's most successful political force of the 21st century, producing four Shinawatra-family prime ministers and drawing extensive rural support. The party recorded its worst-ever election result in February, falling to third place, but remains in the ruling coalition led by conservative Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.



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24 August 2026

• Crime

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Georgealbert

21 hours ago21 hr

Samui visa action sought over Palestinian flag row

Koh Samui

Samui visa action sought over Palestinian flag row

Surat Thani security officials are seeking visa revocation and deportation for an Israeli restaurant owner and a French businessman after a Palestinian flag dispute on Koh Samui escalated into online threats and concerns for tourism.

Col Thitiphong Inwasa, deputy director of the Internal Security Operations Command in Surat Thani, said on 22 August that officials were preparing information for a provincial committee to consider action against Israeli national Jacob and French national Kevin.

Dispute began at Samui attraction

The row began when an Israeli tourist visited Samui Exotic Park, operated by Kevin, and became involved in an argument with him. Kevin had displayed a Palestinian flag and a sign welcoming Palestinians at the attraction.

Jacob later contacted Kevin and asked him to remove the flag, but Kevin refused. Their exchange was later circulated on social media, bringing the dispute into the public eye and leading to legal action.

The Samui Provincial Court subsequently fined Jacob 5,000 baht and gave him a two-year suspended prison sentence.

Officials said the situation worsened after an Israeli influencer based in France offered a 500,000-baht bounty for information leading to Kevin’s death.

Officials warn of tourism and security impact

According to security officials, the dispute spread widely online and created the impression that Israeli visitors were threatening people on Samui, while local residents were hostile towards Israeli tourists.

They warned that such perceptions could harm Koh Samui's tourism industry and raise security concerns. However, officials stressed that the matter began as a personal dispute between two individuals, not a conflict involving Israeli tourists and local residents.

Authorities also cautioned against attempts to portray the case as a wider anti-Israel issue, saying this could potentially develop into religious or ethnic tensions.

Checkpoints in place since 15 August

Officials cited the pair's failure to cooperate in resolving the dispute, as well as concerns that it could escalate, in seeking the visa review.

Immigration records show Jacob has lived on Koh Samui for about five years on a business visa and operates a restaurant. Kevin, who is married to a Thai woman from Rayong, has lived on the island and run Samui Exotic Park for about nine years.

Samui police have kept security checkpoints outside the attraction and near the two men's homes since 15 August to prevent further confrontations. Authorities said the measures were intended to stop the dispute developing into a wider conflict that could damage Samui's standing as an international tourist destination.

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23 August 2026

• Latest Update

• 42 comments
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Georgealbert

Saturday at 10:09 PM1 day

SRTET prepares to take over Airport Rail Link

Bangkok

SRTET prepares to take over Airport Rail Link

The State Railway of Thailand (SRT) has told its Electrified Train Company (SRTET) to prepare to manage the Airport Rail Link if Asia Era One's operating contract ends on September 30.

SRTET, which already operates Bangkok's Red Line commuter service, says it can run the airport line but needs around one month to recruit, organise and prepare staff. The SRT must settle the proposed operating terms by September 1 if the company is to be ready immediately after the current agreement expires.

Air Chief Marshal Kongsak Chandrasopha, an SRTET board member and acting director, said the company had previously managed the Airport Rail Link and was confident about its ability to operate the service.

"We have no concerns about running the Airport Rail Link operationally, since we've managed this project before," he said. "But we do need time to prepare staffing. The fastest option we're looking at is transferring Asia Era One's existing employees over to SRTET, so we can keep the service running without interruption."

Staffing and maintenance plans

SRTET estimates it would require about 300 staff to run the Airport Rail Link. Under the proposal, the company would operate the service and transfer its revenue directly to the SRT, rather than establish a separate subsidiary.

Kongsak said SRTET is waiting for the SRT to finalise both the contract conditions and the payment rate. Should that not happen within the one-month preparation period, the SRT could extend a short-term arrangement with Asia Era One to give SRTET more time.

"If SRTET takes the trains back, we'll need to keep running services for passengers while also pushing through maintenance work," Kongsak said. He added that Siemens could be brought in to support interim maintenance before a full overhaul, meaning some trains could be undergoing work while others remain in service.

High-speed rail deal remains unresolved

SRTET has said it needs clarity on the project's management arrangements before it can inspect assets and rolling stock, and establish the legal basis for taking over. Once the SRT agrees the terms, its board must approve them before they are reported to the Cabinet.

Asia Era One's rights to operate the Airport Rail Link are linked to the joint investment agreement for the high-speed rail project connecting Don Mueang, Suvarnabhumi and U-Tapao airports. That agreement is under review, with the SRT considering whether to amend or terminate it.

The Eastern Economic Corridor Office has proposed two routes forward and is awaiting a meeting of the EEC Policy Committee, chaired by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.

Two possible outcomes

One option is to proceed with amendments previously agreed by the committee, based on an amended draft reviewed by the Office of the Attorney General. The Cabinet would then need to approve the draft before both sides signed a revised agreement.

The alternative is to end the contract if the committee decides it cannot be amended. The SRT and its private partner would then need to consider their legal options.

SRT sources said the agency is awaiting the committee's decision. The private consortium submitted a July 6 request to the SRT to negotiate an end to the contract, arguing that the project cannot continue without an amendment.

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23 August 2026

• Transport

• 0 comments
• 147 views

Georgealbert

Saturday at 10:02 PM1 day

Phuket lifeguards rescue tourist at Nai Thon Beach

Phuket

Phuket lifeguards rescue tourist at Nai Thon Beach

A female tourist was rescued after entering the sea despite red warning flags at Nai Thon Beach in Phuket, where waves and currents quickly left her unable to stay afloat.

The rescue took place at Nai Thon Beach in Sakhu, Thalang district, on 22 August 2026. Lifeguards pulled the woman from the water after she was knocked unconscious by the surf, before she was helped on the beach and brought to safety.

The incident was shared by the Hod Jang Changwat Phuket Facebook page as a warning to beachgoers.

Lifeguards warned woman before she entered

According to the information released, lifeguards had tried to explain the danger and stop the tourist from going into the water. Red flags had been placed along the beach, signalling that swimming was prohibited because of severe wave and current conditions.


Pictures courtesy of Amarin

The woman nevertheless insisted on entering the sea. She was reported to have said: "I flew here because I wanted to swim."

Lifeguards pointed out the red flags and repeated their warning, but she did not cooperate and walked into the water.

Shortly afterwards, the waves and current overwhelmed her. Lifeguards rushed into the sea, brought her ashore and those at the scene helped care for her while she was unconscious. She eventually regained consciousness.

Red flags are a serious warning

Nai Thon Beach lifeguards said their work is difficult every day because some visitors continue to disregard warnings and attempt to enter the sea in red-flag areas.



For foreign tourists and residents in Phuket, the case is a practical reminder that beach conditions can change rapidly, particularly when rough seas and strong currents are present. Being a confident swimmer does not remove the risk from rip currents or heavy surf, and lifeguards' instructions should be followed immediately.

Officials said the red-and-yellow flag area is set aside at specific points where lifeguards are on duty. It is intended to keep people who insist on swimming within sight of staff, allowing a faster response if an emergency occurs.

Nai Thon Beach is about one kilometre long. Lifeguards warned that visitors who slip into the water outside their working area face an even greater risk of drowning because help may not reach them as quickly.

Stay within lifeguard sight lines

Beach staff urged tourists to respect red flags and follow lifeguard advice strictly. They stressed that the flags are not displayed without reason, but warn of waves and currents which can cause a drowning emergency within minutes.

4903992984185318225.mp4
Video courtesy of Phuketinsta

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23 August 2026

• Accident

• 17 comments
• 168 views

Georgealbert

Saturday at 09:57 PM1 day

Chiang Mai city buses to resume on August 31

Chiang Mai

Chiang Mai city buses to resume on August 31

Chiang Mai's city bus network will return on August 31, after its operator suspended services in July amid soaring fuel costs and low passenger numbers.

Regional Transit Cooperation (RTC), which has operated the service since 2018, said its four buses will again run on the Red, Yellow and Green loop routes. The July suspension was the first interruption to the service in eight years.

"We're Back! Ready for service," RTC said in a Facebook announcement confirming the return date.

Three routes from Chiang Mai airport

All three services begin and end at Chiang Mai airport, operating from 7am until 6.30pm. The fare remains a flat 50 baht per journey.

The airport connection is particularly useful for foreign residents, visitors and newly arrived travellers who want an inexpensive public-transport option to move around the city. However, passengers should note that the network has only four buses and operates within the stated daytime hours, rather than as an airport shuttle running late into the evening.

RTC's current buses use compressed natural gas. The company plans to use electricity for its new fleet.

Fuel costs and low ridership

RTC decided to halt operations in July because of high gas prices and weak ridership, according to a June report by business news outlet Prachachat.

The suspension left regular users without the service during a period when the operator was under pressure from rising running costs.

Passengers responding to the return announcement welcomed the resumption, with many saying reliable arrival times mattered more than more frequent buses. They said an on-time schedule would allow them to plan journeys rather than wait indefinitely at stops.



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23 August 2026

• Transport

• 0 comments
• 125 views

Georgealbert

Saturday at 09:50 PM1 day

Nene Royal wins Irish new artist award

Phuket

Nene Royal wins Irish new artist award

Phuket singer-guitarist Nene Royal has been chosen as Best New International Artiste 2026 by The Phil Lynott Convention in Ireland. The 16-year-old, whose real name is Rattikarn Amloy, received the honour on Saturday, August 22.

The award follows her appearances on America's Got Talent Season 21, where her vocals and guitar playing brought her international attention and earned her a place in the competition's Live Shows.

Nene is due to compete in the second live quarter-final of America's Got Talent Season 21 on August 25.

Dublin ceremony celebrates Thin Lizzy legacy

The award presentation will took place at the Button Factory in Temple Bar, Dublin.

The event celebrates Phil Lynott, singer and bassist of the Irish rock band Thin Lizzy, and this year's convention marks 40 years since his death.

Organisers introduced two special awards for the 2026 event. Nene's Best New International Artiste honour recognises her potential as an emerging performer on the international stage and is intended to encourage a new generation of rock artists.

From Phuket busking to a global TV audience

Nene began teaching herself guitar at about six or seven years old. She developed her live performance experience by busking at markets in Phuket before gaining a much wider audience through America's Got Talent.

Her first appearance on the programme featured a rock-based version of The Cranberries' "Zombie". She later performed Muse's "Hysteria" during the Judges' Callbacks.

Those performances helped carry her from local market stages in Phuket to one of television's best-known talent competitions. Her latest recognition in Ireland is another overseas milestone as she continues to develop her music for audiences beyond Thailand.


Picture courtesy of The Nation

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23 August 2026

• Entertainment

• 1 comment
• 139 views

Georgealbert

Saturday at 09:45 PM1 day

Pattaya police arrest Chinese over 'Pot K' drug network

Pattaya

Pattaya police arrest Chinese over 'Pot K' drug network

Pattaya police have arrested three Chinese nationals and a Thai woman after early-morning raids allegedly uncovered a network preparing "Pot K" vape products for sale, along with methamphetamine and packaging equipment.

The four suspects were detained after police searched two condominium locations at 5am on 22 August 2026.

The operation was carried out by the Pattaya City Police Station narcotics suppression team under the government's drug-prevention and enforcement policy.

Police identified those arrested as Kun Chen, 39; Wichada, also known as Baiphak, Khumkan, 33; Wei Zhang, 32; and Meiling Zhou, 28. Three are Chinese nationals and one is a Thai woman.

Two Pattaya condominium raids

The raids took place at condominiums near Soi Boon Kanjana 5 and Soi Thappraya 9. The operation was overseen by Chonburi provincial police commander Major General Pongphan Wongmanithet.



Also involved were Colonel Kulchat Kulchai and Colonel Wasurat Chaitheerapat, deputy provincial police commanders, and Colonel Anek Sarathongyu, superintendent of Pattaya City Police Station, together with investigation officers.

The search team was led by Police Captain Phubet Ruamsap, deputy inspector with Pattaya police investigators.

Police said they found a large quantity of Pot K pod heads and related items, including mixing liquid, digital scales, packing bags, pod-head packaging, scent-identification stickers, and equipment used to mix and prepare products.

Officers also seized 21 methamphetamine tablets, about 11.5 grams of crystal methamphetamine, 13,000 baht in cash and the suspects' mobile phones. Further equipment allegedly linked to dividing and packaging drugs was also recovered.

Charges and visa issue

Police have initially brought charges connected to the sale of Pot K pods, offences involving e-cigarettes and customs law, as well as drug-related offences.

One of the Chinese suspects was also found to have an expired permission to stay in Thailand. Meiling Zhou tested positive for methamphetamine and was charged with consuming a Category 1 narcotic in breach of the law.

Investigation continues

All four suspects and the seized items were handed to Pattaya City Police Station investigators for legal proceedings.

Police said they will expand the investigation to establish the origin of the Pot K products and drugs, identify any additional people linked to the network, and determine where products may have been distributed.


Picture courtesy of แจ็ค โพธิ์แดง

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23 August 2026

• Crime

• 1 comment
• 144 views

Georgealbert

Saturday at 09:35 PM1 day

ATM set alight outside Chachoengsao factory

Central Thailand

ATM set alight outside Chachoengsao factory

A 27-year-old man has been detained after an ATM outside a factory in Chachoengsao was set on fire shortly after midnight on 22 August. Police say the man told them he acted following an argument with his pregnant girlfriend and wanted to be sent to prison.

The blaze damaged the bank ATM outside Wisdom Auto Part Co Ltd on Suwinthawong Road, inbound towards Chachoengsao town, in Moo 5, Wang Takhian subdistrict, Mueang district.

Police named the suspect only as Natthawat, 27. Lieutenant Colonel Wanchai Prathom, acting deputy superintendent for prevention and suppression at Mueang Chachoengsao Police Station, and Police Major Phatthana Langfak, the station's prevention and suppression inspector, led officers to detain him.

Fire outside factory could not be initially contained

When officers arrived, flames were burning intensely around the ATM. Factory security guards had attempted to put out the fire with extinguishers, but were unable to contain it because it spread quickly.



A fire engine from Wang Takhian Subdistrict Administrative Organisation later arrived and firefighters brought the blaze under control using water.

Suspect describes argument and claimed motive

Natthawat, who police said appeared dazed during questioning, told officers he had hired a vehicle from Bangkok to visit Luang Pho Chet, the abbot of Wat Thawin Silamongkhon, which is not far from the scene.

After meeting the monk, he said he walked to the front of the factory to rest and telephoned his girlfriend, who is pregnant. The pair argued, and he claimed she challenged him and told him she wanted him to go to prison.



He told police he then decided to retaliate by setting fire to the ATM. According to his account, he collected rubbish from a nearby bin, placed it inside the machine and used a lighter he was carrying to ignite it.

The suspect also claimed he had earlier considered robbing a gold shop, but decided against it because it was late. He said he instead set fire to the ATM because he wanted to be jailed.

Officers said a search found no drugs on Natthawat. However, they found a lighter and a pipe used for taking drugs.

Police took him to Mueang Chachoengsao Police Station to calm down before conducting a urine test for narcotics. Investigators question him further, gather evidence and proceed with legal action.


Pictures courtesy of Amarin

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23 August 2026

• Crime

• 0 comments
• 123 views

Georgealbert

Saturday at 09:28 PM1 day

Phuket shop sign bars Israeli tourists, sparks debate

Phuket

Phuket shop sign bars Israeli tourists, sparks debate

A Phuket shopkeeper has put up a sign barring Israeli tourists from entering, prompting a strong reaction on Thai social media after Phuket Times shared an image of it on Saturday, August 22.

According to a report from Naewna, the shop owner said the move followed a previous confrontation outside the business. The report did not identify the shop or give its precise location on the island.

Owner says sign is intended to prevent disputes

The shopkeeper said: "I was once verbally abused by Israelis in front of my shop. I cursed back that time, but my intention in putting up the sign is to prevent future problems arising from among #Israeli tourists."

Phuket Times had previously said it was preparing to submit a letter to authorities seeking an investigation into Israeli nationals at Patong beach. It cited alleged widespread dissatisfaction with what it called "arrogant" behaviour, including claims that locals had been chased away and outsiders barred from an area believed to have been acquired through nominee networks.

Online commenters call for wider action

After the image was posted, commenters backed the shopkeeper's decision. Some wrote that preventing problems early was the right approach, while others said they would do the same.

Other comments urged similar action across Phuket, with one saying shops should follow suit "until every shop in Phuket is affected". That comment said Thais should not allow foreigners to take advantage of or bully them, and should not welcome people with bad manners.

Several commenters called for Thai unity. Others said government agencies were weak and ordinary people had to protect themselves, while another said Phuket residents should unite because police, local administration and ISOC could not be relied upon.

One final comment urged people to "resist strongly", adding: "If you weaken, you will end up like the Palestinians."

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23 August 2026

• Community

• 68 comments
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Georgealbert

Saturday at 09:25 PM1 day

Thai Airways eyes early return of Bangkok-Auckland flights

Travel

Thai Airways eyes early return of Bangkok-Auckland flights

Thai Airways could resume direct flights between Bangkok and Auckland earlier than its previously planned 2028 timetable, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas has said.

Thailand's government is now targeting March 2027 for the route's return, although Ekniti said officials would push for an even earlier launch if the airline's fleet is ready.

He made the comments on 21 August 2026 while visiting light-aircraft company NZAero at its hangar at Ardmore Airport in Auckland, New Zealand.

Government seeks Auckland Airport slots

Ekniti said Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul had told New Zealand's prime minister that Thailand intended to launch the Bangkok-Auckland service in March 2027.

The direct route was among issues discussed by the Thai and New Zealand leaders, according to Ekniti. The government believes it would make travel easier for business, tourism, trade and people-to-people links between the two countries.

The proposed service still depends on Thai Airways having enough aircraft available, particularly under its plans to receive new planes.

Ekniti said he had instructed Lavaron Sangsnit, permanent secretary of the Finance Ministry and chairman of Thai Airways International Public Company Limited, to pursue the plan.

Preparatory work has already begun, with the permanent secretary asked to contact Auckland Airport's management about allocating and reserving flight slots in advance. Securing arrival and departure times early would allow the airline to begin services smoothly once its fleet is ready, Ekniti said.

Possible partnership with Air New Zealand

Ekniti also said there was scope for commercial cooperation between Thai Airways and Air New Zealand. Both airlines belong to the Star Alliance network, meaning they could consider a codeshare arrangement to make passenger connections more convenient.

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon previously served as chief executive of Air New Zealand, Ekniti noted, and understands the airline industry's business structure and the potential of routes between Thailand and New Zealand.

"We see an opportunity to work together through codeshare rather than viewing this as competition, because it would benefit both sides," Ekniti said. He added that such cooperation could improve links for travel, trade, investment and tourism.

Wider links between Thailand and New Zealand

An earlier return of direct Bangkok-Auckland flights would support economic cooperation as Thailand and New Zealand seek to deepen relations and open new areas of collaboration, Ekniti said.

He identified tourism, agriculture, food, clean energy and investment as areas where the two countries were expanding cooperation.

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23 August 2026

• Aviation

• 0 comments
• 79 views

Georgealbert

Saturday at 09:22 PM1 day

Russian father seeks missing daughter in Pattaya

Pattaya

Russian father seeks missing daughter in Pattaya

A Russian father has asked Bang Lamung police to help find his 19-year-old daughter, who has been out of contact with her family for more than three months. The last reported, unconfirmed sighting of Anna Gorshkova Andreevna was at a hotel resort and villa in the Na Jomtien area on 15 June.

Kirill Gorshkov, 41, filed the report with investigators at Bang Lamung Police Station at 6.20pm on 21 August 2026, seeking help to trace his daughter.

Police have been asked to examine CCTV footage and other relevant information as part of efforts to establish her movements and locate her.

Trip from Russia through China

According to the initial information given to police, Anna left Russia about three months ago after telling her family she was travelling as a tourist.

Her family later learned that she had travelled to China before continuing to Thailand. It was not stated when she arrived in the country or where else she may have stayed.

A foreign national reportedly told the family that a young woman matching Anna's description had been seen on 15 June at a hotel resort and villa in Na Jomtien, Sattahip district, Chon Buri.

Police asked to check CCTV

Mr Gorshkov lodged the report as evidence and asked officers to urgently review security-camera recordings and any other available material linked to the possible sighting.

Anna's father has appealed for her to be found as soon as possible after the family's prolonged loss of contact.


Picture courtesy of ฉลาม นิวส์

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23 August 2026

• Community

• 5 comments
• 252 views

Georgealbert

Saturday at 09:19 PM1 day