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Picture courtesy of Daily News. A man posing as a senior police inspector has been arrested along with his partner after allegedly extorting money from more than 2,000 victims, including Thai business owners and foreign residents, by falsely claiming to represent various police units. The arrest was announced during a press conference at Koh Phangan Police Station by Pol. Lt. Gen. Natthakorn Praphayon, Deputy Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, alongside senior officials from Immigration Division 6 and Surat Thani Provincial Police. The suspect, identified as Mr. Suchart Sombatchai, also known by aliases “Inspector Wat” and “Inspector Sak,” was detained along with Ms. Suphattra Muldee, who was wanted under a separate warrant. Both were apprehended in Nong Sang District, Nong Bua Lamphu Province, under arrest warrants issued by the Koh Samui Provincial Court for impersonation and fraud. According to the police, Mr. Suchart had been impersonating officers from multiple units, including Immigration Police, Tourist Police and local law enforcement. He contacted individuals, mostly business owners and expatriates on Koh Phangan, demanding money under the guise of “supporting” official operations. Victims were reportedly threatened with legal trouble if they did not comply. Pol. Maj. Gen. Songprod Sirisukha, Chief of Immigration Division 6, said the scam had caused significant distress among the local and foreign communities, damaging public trust in law enforcement. While some victims complied and transferred money, others grew suspicious and refused. Mr. Suchart has a lengthy criminal record with multiple past arrests for impersonating police officers in Pattaya and Patong. After gathering sufficient evidence, authorities tracked the couple down and made the arrest. Both suspects confessed to the charges. They have been handed over to investigators to face prosecution for fraudulently presenting themselves as public officials. Authorities urge anyone who may have been contacted or extorted by the suspects to report the incident to Koh Phangan Police Station to support further legal action. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Daily News 2025-06-22

Deadly “Raw Pork Disease” Resurfaces, 89 Infected, 5 Dead Picture courtesy of ThaiRath. Public health authorities have issued an urgent warning as “raw pork disease”, medically known as Streptococcus suis infection and formerly referred to as “deafness fever”, resurfaces across four provinces in Thailand’s lower northeastern region. Between 1 January and 19 June 2025, a total of 89 infections and 5 fatalities have been recorded, with Nakhon Ratchasima province reporting the highest number of cases. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364405-deadly-“raw-pork-disease”-resurfaces-89-infected-5-dead/

Picture courtesy of ThaiRath. Public health authorities have issued an urgent warning as “raw pork disease”, medically known as Streptococcus suis infection and formerly referred to as “deafness fever”, resurfaces across four provinces in Thailand’s lower northeastern region. Between 1 January and 19 June 2025, a total of 89 infections and 5 fatalities have been recorded, with Nakhon Ratchasima province reporting the highest number of cases. Dr. Taweechai Visanuyothin, Director of the Disease Prevention and Control Office 9 in Nakhon Ratchasima, announced that the disease has been renamed “raw pork disease” (โรคไข้หมูดิบ) to highlight its origin, pigs, in a bid to increase public awareness of the risk linked to raw or undercooked pork. The disease is caused by the Streptococcus suis bacterium, which resides in the respiratory tract and bloodstream of infected pigs. It can be transmitted to humans in two main ways: 1. Consumption of raw or partially cooked pork, offal, or pig blood 2. Direct contact with infected pig meat, organs, or blood, especially through cuts, abrasions or mucous membranes such as the eyes Symptoms typically appear within 1 to 14 days and include high fever, severe headache, dizziness, vomiting and neck stiffness. In severe cases, the infection may cause permanent hearing loss, hence its former nickname “deafness fever” or lead to death, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. Breakdown by Province • Nakhon Ratchasima: 47 cases (1.80 per 100,000), 3 deaths • Chaiyaphum: 17 cases (1.59 per 100,000) • Surin: 13 cases (0.96 per 100,000) • Buriram: 12 cases (0.77 per 100,000), 2 deaths The highest infection rates are found in individuals aged 65 and over, followed by those aged 55–64 and 45–54. Despite ongoing warnings, consumption of raw pork dishes such as larb lueat (raw pork salad with blood), koi dip (raw minced pork) and naem (fermented raw pork) remains common in some regions. Health Advisory: How to Stay Safe The Disease Control Department urges the public to follow these key safety guidelines: 1. Only consume thoroughly cooked pork — Heat to at least 60–70°C for 10 minutes. 2. Separate utensils for handling raw and cooked meat, especially during barbecues. Follow the “Cooked – Hot – Clean” principle. 3. Never mix raw pork with alcohol consumption, which increases the risk of severe infection. 4. Buy pork from reliable sources — Avoid meat that appears dark, has a strong odour, or lacks certification. 5. Avoid direct contact with raw pork and pig blood, especially for those in high-risk professions (farmers, butchers, abattoir workers, veterinarians). Use gloves and rubber boots, cover open wounds, and wash hands thoroughly. 6. Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing high fever and headache with a history of eating or handling raw pork. Early treatment with antibiotics significantly reduces the risk of deafness or death. Those most at risk include individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, hypertension, cancer, heart disease or anyone who has had a spleen removed. Chronic alcohol users are also particularly vulnerable to severe illness. Public health authorities continue to monitor the situation and emphasise that prevention through safe food practices is critical to stopping the spread of this deadly but avoidable disease. Adapted by ASEAN Now from ThaiRath 2025-06-22

Royal Thai Navy Deploys Drones & Forces to Defend Eastern Maritime Border Picture courtesy of Amarin. The Royal Thai Navy has stepped up its operations to protect Thailand’s sovereignty along its eastern maritime border with Cambodia. On 20 June, Vice Admiral Apach Phanon, Commander of the First Naval Area Command and Rear Admiral Rangsarn Bhuapueak, Deputy Commander, inspected readiness operations involving unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and naval forces at the Naval Logistics Base in Khlong Yai, Laem Ngop District, Trat Province. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364404-royal-thai-navy-deploys-drones-forces-to-defend-eastern-maritime-border/

Picture courtesy of Amarin. The Royal Thai Navy has stepped up its operations to protect Thailand’s sovereignty along its eastern maritime border with Cambodia. On 20 June, Vice Admiral Apach Phanon, Commander of the First Naval Area Command and Rear Admiral Rangsarn Bhuapueak, Deputy Commander, inspected readiness operations involving unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and naval forces at the Naval Logistics Base in Khlong Yai, Laem Ngop District, Trat Province. The visit marked a full-scale assessment of the Navy’s capacity to respond to border threats and included joint exercises between warships and UAVs. These exercises tested battlefield communications, tactical target sharing, and shore bombardment coordination using naval artillery. Units involved included HTMS Naresuan, UAV units under the First Naval Area Command, the Marine Corps’ Mobile Company 1 and local operational units stationed around Ko Kut. The primary objective of the exercise was to evaluate operational capabilities across personnel, equipment and command protocol, ensuring swift and effective responses to any threat. The Royal Thai Navy affirmed its commitment to defending Thailand’s national interests and maritime sovereignty, with emphasis on being a force the public can trust and take pride in. Vice Admiral Apach reassured the Thai public of the Navy’s unwavering dedication, stating: “Thai naval officers stand ready to defend the nation’s sovereignty at all costs. The First Naval Area Command is fully prepared for any emergency that may arise in defence of Thai territory and waters.” As a gesture of support and morale, he also distributed drinking water and non-perishable food supplies to personnel and various naval vessels continuing their patrol and operational missions in the region. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Amarin 2025-06-22

Man Attempts Suicide on Bangkok Overpass After Being Denied Access to See His Child Picture courtesy of NBT A 29-year-old man attempted to take his own life by climbing onto a pedestrian overpass along Vibhavadi Rangsit Road in Bangkok on the evening of 20 June, reportedly distraught over being denied contact with his child by his wife. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364403-man-attempts-suicide-on-bangkok-overpass-after-being-denied-access-to-see-his-child/

Picture courtesy of NBT A 29-year-old man attempted to take his own life by climbing onto a pedestrian overpass along Vibhavadi Rangsit Road in Bangkok on the evening of 20 June, reportedly distraught over being denied contact with his child by his wife. At around 20:00, Pol. Lt. Col. Kachakorn Saisa-sawat, Deputy Inspector of Phahonyothin Police Station, received reports of a man preparing to jump from the overpass near Soi Vibhavadi Rangsit 42, adjacent to Wat Samian Nari and the Red Line electric train station. Emergency responders from Vibhavadi Traffic Police, Lat Yao Fire and Rescue Station, Phaya Thai Fire Station and volunteers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation were dispatched to the scene. The man, later identified as Mr. Nattawut, was found perched dangerously on the steel frame in the centre of the overpass structure, approximately seven metres above the road. He was wearing a yellow shirt and grey shorts and appeared emotionally distressed as he threatened to jump into oncoming traffic. Police partially closed the inbound side of Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, reducing traffic to one lane on the leftmost side and placed an inflatable safety cushion on the road below. For over 40 minutes, authorities and bystanders attempted to persuade the man to come down safely. A video call was placed to his wife in an effort to calm him, but Mr. Nattawut refused to communicate. Eventually, a coordinated effort by emergency services allowed them to safely subdue the man before he could jump. He shouted angrily at officers during the intervention and was taken to Phahonyothin Police Station to calm down and receive support. Preliminary investigations revealed that Mr. Nattawut works with his father as a contractor on a roadside drainage construction project near the scene. He had been staying at a nearby hotel. His actions are believed to have stemmed from emotional distress after being repeatedly refused permission by his wife to see their child. Authorities have not confirmed whether legal or psychological assistance will be arranged for the man but emphasised the importance of mental health support in such cases. Adapted by ASEAN Now from NBT 2025-06-22

Sangha Supreme Council Introduces Strict New Measures to Oversee Temple Finances Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Sangha Supreme Council (SSC) has approved sweeping new regulations aimed at improving transparency and accountability in the financial management of temples across Thailand. The measures include mandatory banking procedures, monthly financial reports, and strict oversight to prevent misappropriation or loss of funds. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364402-sangha-supreme-council-introduces-strict-new-measures-to-oversee-temple-finances/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. The Sangha Supreme Council (SSC) has approved sweeping new regulations aimed at improving transparency and accountability in the financial management of temples across Thailand. The measures include mandatory banking procedures, monthly financial reports, and strict oversight to prevent misappropriation or loss of funds. The announcement was made following the SSC’s 16th meeting of 2025, held at Wat Bowonniwet Vihara in Bangkok. Mr Chatchaphon Chaiporn, Acting Director of the Secretariat Office of the Sangha Supreme Council and an expert in Buddhist academic affairs, detailed the new policies. Key Regulations for Temple Bank Accounts The new framework establishes clear rules for the opening and management of temple bank accounts: 1. Accounts must be opened only with banks located in the same province as the temple. 2. Account names must clearly indicate temple ownership, using formats such as “Funds of Wat…” or “Wat…”. Names must not include personal identifiers (e.g. “by Mr…”). 3. Each account must have at least three authorised signatories, including the abbot, an appointed temple steward (waiyawachak), and another person deemed suitable by the abbot. 4. Withdrawals must be co-signed by two out of the three authorised persons and must always include the abbot’s signature. 5. Only official bank withdrawal forms and passbooksmay be used for all withdrawals. Temples are also required to safeguard all financial documents in secure locations to prevent loss or tampering. Monthly and Annual Reporting Requirements Temples must now keep detailed accounts of all income, expenditure, and remaining funds, with the following additional obligations: • Monthly financial summaries must be compiled and submitted annually (covering January to December) to the National Office of Buddhism (NOB) or the Provincial Office of Buddhism by 20 January each year. A full copy must be retained at the temple. • Monthly closing balances must include cash, cheque holdings, and bank deposits for all temple accounts. • Temples are encouraged to adopt the NOB’s standardised accounting system. If adopted, this replaces the need for manual reporting, though final reports must still be submitted annually. Digital Donations and Enforcement Temples are also urged to adopt the e-Donation system to digitise donation tracking and improve transparency. Abbots are expected to comply with these new standards, under close supervision from their respective ecclesiastical superiors. Failure to comply may result in disciplinary action for breaching monastic administrative conduct, with penalties under relevant religious and civil laws. To support implementation, the NOB will provide official templates for income and expenditure reporting, along with training and guidance. Coordination with agencies such as the Office of the Auditor General, provincial auditors, the Royal Thai Police and the Anti-Money Laundering Office may also be undertaken to facilitate inspections and audits. The new policy is set to take effect from 1 October 2025. The initiative marks a significant move towards financial reform within Buddhist institutions, amid increasing public scrutiny over temple management and calls for greater accountability. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod 2025-06-22

Illegal Cockfighting Ring Raided in Chiang Rai – 30 Gamblers Arrested Picture courtesy of Matichon. Authorities in Chiang Rai have raided an illegal cockfighting den, arresting 30 individuals and seizing gambling paraphernalia after a dramatic scene in which participants fled into nearby fields and forest upon the arrival of officers. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364401-illegal-cockfighting-ring-raided-in-chiang-rai-–-30-gamblers-arrested/

Picture courtesy of Matichon. Authorities in Chiang Rai have raided an illegal cockfighting den, arresting 30 individuals and seizing gambling paraphernalia after a dramatic scene in which participants fled into nearby fields and forest upon the arrival of officers. The operation followed complaints from local residents in Ban Chai Niwet, Village 13, Wiang Chai District, who reported loud noise and gatherings linked to unauthorised cockfighting and gambling. The reports prompted Chiang Rai Governor Mr. Charin Thongsuk to assign District Chief Mr. Bodin Thiamphakdee and Pol. Col. Wichai Chaiuenkham, Superintendent of Wiang Chai Police Station, to investigate. A joint task force comprising district security officers, led by Mr. Wisit Thuancheep (Chiang Rai Provincial Defence Chief), Mr. Phakhin Phunket (Wiang Chai Assistant District Officer) and local police officers, conducted the raid. Upon arrival at the premises, authorities discovered a large group of individuals gathered around cockfighting activities. As soon as they noticed the official vehicles, participants scattered in all directions, abandoning their motorbikes and fleeing across paddy fields, woodland and irrigation ditches. Officers managed to secure the scene, where they found evidence of active gambling including a cockfighting ring, betting slips and cash placed above the ring. The venue also featured a training pit, fight pairing boards and stalls selling food and beverages. One man, Mr. Thongsuk identified himself as the owner of the property. He admitted to organising cockfighting events without a licence. He has been charged with hosting illegal gambling activities. The 30 individuals arrested at the scene have been charged with participating in illegal gambling. All suspects were formally booked and transferred to Wiang Chai Police Station for further legal proceedings. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Matichon 2025-06-22

Drunk Pickup Driver Drags Motorcycle, Family of Three Seriously Injured Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A crash involving a drunk driver has left a family of three, a father, mother and their five-year-old son, seriously injured after a pickup truck rammed into their motorcycle, dragged it along the road and sparked a blaze from spilt fuel, on the tarmac in Bang Bon district. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364400-drunk-pickup-driver-drags-motorcycle-family-of-three-seriously-injured/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A crash involving a drunk driver has left a family of three, a father, mother and their five-year-old son, seriously injured after a pickup truck rammed into their motorcycle, dragged it along the road and sparked a blaze from spilt fuel, on the tarmac in Bang Bon district. The collision occurred at approximately 21:50 on 20 June near the entrance of Soi Bang Bon 5/5, Bang Bon Nuea subdistrict, western Bangkok. Police investigator Pol. Lt. Chawaphon Khlongyut from Bang Bon Police Station, along with Poh Teck Tung Foundation volunteers, rushed to the scene. Emergency responders found three injured victims, Mr Akkhadech 44; Ms Kanokrat 31 and their young son (name withheld), aged 5, lying in the middle of the road, crying out for help. All three were urgently transported to hospital with serious injuries. Eyewitnesses reported that the family had been riding together on a red Honda Wave motorcycle in the leftmost lane when an orange Isuzu pickup truck, registered in Bangkok, suddenly ploughed into them at high speed and fled the scene. The force of the impact wedged the motorcycle underneath the pickup, which continued dragging it along the asphalt. The friction caused a trail of sparks, igniting a small fire, as petrol flowed from the damaged motorcycle. Bystanders quickly gave chase, recording video footage of the fleeing vehicle. The driver was eventually intercepted near Soi Bang Bon 5/7 and detained. The driver, later identified as Mr Phithak 37, appeared visibly intoxicated. He was handed over to Bang Bon police and taken to Bangpakok 8 Hospital for a blood alcohol test, which showed hi over the driving limit. Police have initially charged him with reckless driving causing injury to others and drink driving. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod 2025-06-22

Indian Workers Illegally Operating Tour Services in Pattaya Picture courtesy of พัทยา จุดเกิดเหตุ Local residents have expressed concerns, after discovering Indian workers allegedly operating illegal tour services in the heart of Pattaya, in clear violation of labour laws. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364399-indian-workers-illegally-operating-tour-services-in-pattaya/

Picture courtesy of พัทยา จุดเกิดเหตุ Local residents have expressed concerns, after discovering Indian workers allegedly operating illegal tour services in the heart of Pattaya, in clear violation of labour laws. Reports from concerned members of the public indicate that Indian nationals have been seen picking up fellow Indian tourists from massage parlours, before taking them on unauthorised tours around the city. These activities not only contravene the law, as the profession of tour guiding is legally reserved for Thai nationals, but also threaten the livelihoods of local Thais working in the tourism sector. “This is a direct violation of our laws and an affront to our tourism industry,” said one local business owner. “It’s not just illegal, it’s unfair. These foreign workers are exploiting the free visa policy and taking away income that should go to Thai people.” The issue comes amid growing concerns about the influx of foreign workers using visa-free schemes to engage in unauthorised employment. Authorities are being urged to crack down on such illegal practices, which locals say are damaging Pattaya’s tourism economy and fuelling resentment among legal operators. Officials have reminded the public that anyone witnessing such illegal activity should report it immediately to the relevant authorities. Adapted by ASEAN Now from พัทยา จุดเกิดเหตุ 2025-06-22

Piles of Shredded Electronic Scrap Illegally Dumped in Chachoengsao Village Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Residents of a quiet village in Phanom Sarakham district were shocked to discover towering mounds of what appeared to be soil, only to realise it was in fact shredded electronic waste, dumped illegally under cover of night. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364398-piles-of-shredded-electronic-scrap-illegally-dumped-in-chachoengsao-village/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. Residents of a quiet village in Phanom Sarakham district were shocked to discover towering mounds of what appeared to be soil, only to realise it was in fact shredded electronic waste, dumped illegally under cover of night. Villagers in Moo 10 of Khao Hin Son subdistrict came across two large piles of waste dumped in an overgrown area beside the Ban Pho Si–Bu Yai Phong Road, near a canal. Upon closer inspection, the waste was found to be finely ground insulation and wire casings, industrial by-products from electronic manufacturing processes. Mr Banchaa, the local resident who first made the discovery, said the materials resembled the so-called “free soil” that had previously made headlines after it was revealed to be hazardous e-waste. “It’s disgusting. This isn’t just rubbish, this is toxic waste. It’s poison. We’ve never had anything like this in our village before,” he said. Residents believe the dumping occurred overnight. “I pass this area every morning and evening. There was nothing there yesterday,” said Mr Banchaa. “There are no factories nearby. Someone must have trucked it in from elsewhere.” Another resident reported hearing a vehicle speeding away around 01:00 the previous night. “At first I thought someone was fleeing from wild elephants. I didn’t get a good look, but it felt suspicious,” she said. “We’re really worried, this stuff is full of chemicals, and it’s dangerously close to our local water sources.” Despite growing concerns, no authorities had arrived to inspect the site. Villagers are now calling for an urgent investigation to trace the origin of the waste and prosecute those responsible under environmental laws. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod 2025-06-22

Man Dies After Crashing into Lorry Carrying Dredging Barge Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 25-year-old man was killed on the morning of 21 June, after the car he was driving slammed into the rear of a 12-wheeled lorry transporting a massive dredging barge. Another man travelling in the same vehicle was seriously injured. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364397-man-dies-after-crashing-into-lorry-carrying-dredging-barge/

Picture courtesy of Khaosod. A 25-year-old man was killed on the morning of 21 June, after the car he was driving slammed into the rear of a 12-wheeled lorry transporting a massive dredging barge. Another man travelling in the same vehicle was seriously injured. The fatal crash occurred at around 05:30, on the outbound carriageway of Kanchanaphisek Road, near the Bang Phrom canal bridge in the Bang Chueak Nang area of Taling Chan district. Police investigator Pol. Lt. Yuttana Ploysuk from Bang Saothong Police Station arrived on scene alongside forensic medics from Siriraj Hospital and rescue volunteers from the Poh Teck Tung Foundation. At the scene, officers found a blue Hino 12-wheeled flatbed lorry, registered in Nonthaburi, with damage to its rear. The vehicle was transporting a large steel pontoon for dredging operations. Nearby was a severely damaged grey MG hatchback with a shattered windscreen and a crumpled, partially detached roof. The driver of the MG, identified only as Mr Thammathorn, aged 25, was pronounced dead at the scene. He was found trapped inside the wreckage. He had suffered a broken neck and a severe head injury. Rescue teams had to use hydraulic cutting equipment to extract his body from the mangled car. A male passenger seated in the front was seriously injured and rushed to hospital for emergency treatment. According to the lorry driver, he had been transporting the dredging barge from Bang Yai in Nonthaburi to a construction site in Bang Na. While driving along the parallel road, a car suddenly attempted to overtake from behind. Moments later, he felt an impact at the rear of the vehicle. Police noted that the MG suffered extreme front-end damage, with the roof torn open and the driver’s compartment crushed. Initial investigations are focusing on the possibility of speeding or driver error. Officers are reviewing CCTV footage from the area and waiting to speak further with the injured passenger once his condition stabilises. The deceased has been sent to Siriraj Hospital for a post-mortem examination. Authorities will coordinate with the family for the return of his body. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod 2025-06-22

Thailand Recalls Ambassador to Cambodia for Urgent Consultations Picture courtesy of Khoasod. Thailand’s Foreign Minister, Maris Sengyempong, has ordered the Thai ambassador to Cambodia to return to Bangkok for urgent consultations, amid escalating tensions between the two countries over the disputed border area. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364372-thailand-recalls-ambassador-to-cambodia-for-urgent-consultations/

Supreme Court to Review Thaksin's Hospital Transfer Drama Picture courtesy of Thai PBS World The Medical Council of Thailand (MCT) is gearing up to hand over the findings from its probe into Thaksin Shinawatra's controversial hospital transfer directly to the Supreme Court. The investigation targeted three doctors allegedly entangled in Thaksin's high-profile move from prison to hospital care, prompting disciplinary measures against them. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1364360-supreme-court-to-review-thaksins-hospital-transfer-drama/

Thailand's Legal Wrangle with Hun Sen over Audio Leak Escalates Cambodia's Senate President Hun Sen. File photo courtesy of Thai PBS World Thailand is stepping up legal steps against Cambodia's Senate President Hun Sen, citing threats to national security after an audio leak. The Cybercrime Investigation Bureau (CIB) was engaged following the release of a conversation between Hun Sen and the Thai prime minister dating back to June 15. Full story: https://aseannow.com/topic/1364367-thailands-legal-wrangle-with-hun-sen-over-audio-leak-escalates/

to continue: Thailand Live Sunday 22 June 2025 https://aseannow.com/topic/1364384-thailand-live-sunday-22-june-2025/

Picture courtesy of Khoasod. Thailand’s Foreign Minister, Maris Sengyempong, has ordered the Thai ambassador to Cambodia to return to Bangkok for urgent consultations, amid escalating tensions between the two countries over the disputed border area. Initial reports late night on 20 June suggested that Thailand was taking the drastic step of downgrading diplomatic ties, replacing the ambassador with a chargé d’affaires as a retaliatory measure against Cambodia. The move appeared to be in response to a recent incursion by Cambodian troops into Thai territory, which has sparked public outcry and prompted the Thai government to tighten controls on border checkpoint hours. In what many see as a tit-for-tat response, the Cambodian government subsequently banned the import of Thai fruit into the country. However, in a clarification issued shortly after midnight in the early hours of 21 June, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that while the ambassador had indeed been called back, the action was part of a scheduled emergency consultation and did not yet constitute a formal downgrading of diplomatic relations. A statement from the Ministry read: “The Ambassador has been invited to Bangkok for a high-level meeting to assess the evolving border situation and formulate appropriate response measures. No decision has been made at this stage to reduce the level of diplomatic representation.” This latest development marks a significant escalation in a dispute that has reignited long-standing sensitivities along the Thai-Cambodian border. Analysts note that such a move, if formalised, would be the most serious diplomatic downgrade between the two nations in years. The Ministry added that any further measures would be communicated following the assessment meeting. Adapted by ASEAN Now from Khoasod 2025-06-21

Thailand Recalls Ambassador to Cambodia for Urgent Consultations Picture courtesy of Khoasod. Thailand’s Foreign Minister, Maris Sengyempong, has ordered the Thai ambassador to Cambodia to return to Bangkok for urgent consultations, amid escalating tensions between the two countries over the disputed border area. Full story:https://aseannow.com/topic/1364372-thailand-recalls-ambassador-to-cambodia-for-urgent-consultations/