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A 61-year-old mute British tourist in a wheelchair was robbed in his Pattaya hotel room after being lured back by two women and one transgender suspect. The trio allegedly stole over 12,500 baht in cash before fleeing, leaving the man traumatised and alone. Unable to speak, he alerted police by typing messages on his phone. The incident occurred around midnight on 15 July in Central Pattaya. Authorities are now urgently searching for the suspects and appealing to the public for information.

A foreign resident in Rawai, Phuket, is under investigation after allegedly burying a dog alive, leaving only its head above ground. The shocking act, captured on video and posted on 16 July, sparked widespread outrage online. Local officials and residents rescued the weak and barely conscious dog, now under the care of the Soi Dog Foundation. Authorities have identified the suspect and are pursuing legal action. The case has ignited intense public condemnation and renewed calls for stronger protections against animal cruelty in Thailand.

Police raided a major illegal baccarat den in Bangkok’s Bang Khae district, arresting 20 gamblers and seizing chips worth over 274 million baht. The group included Thai, Chinese, and Myanmar nationals. Some gamblers were injured trying to flee through windows. Officers also confiscated tables, monitors, cash, cards, and other equipment. All suspects confessed to the charges and were taken to Phetkasem police station. The raid followed an intelligence operation that uncovered the site’s conversion into a large-scale gambling venue.

After 16 years on the run, 47-year-old Woraporn was arrested in Nakhon Pathom for her alleged role in the 2009 murder of her aunt, Boonthing, following a family land dispute. The victim’s body was found buried near her home with signs of blunt force trauma. While Woraporn’s mother was arrested soon after the murder, Woraporn fled and lived across Thailand under the radar. She was captured after returning to live with her child. She claims limited involvement, saying she only tried to help her mother during a heated altercation.

Thailand is urgently tackling toxic pollution from Myanmar that’s contaminating northern rivers and threatening public health. On July 15, the Cabinet approved a sweeping plan to protect affected areas like the Kok and Sai rivers, with expanded testing, free health screenings, and aid for impacted farmers and businesses. The country is also pushing Myanmar diplomatically to stop harmful mining practices. A coordinated national response will include ecosystem restoration and international cooperation, led by the Ministry of Natural Resources. Locals now face a prolonged fight to restore clean water and safety.

Thailand will open bidding for the Bangkok–Nong Khai high-speed rail project in Q3 2026, as part of its Thai-Chinese infrastructure partnership. The State Railway of Thailand aims to attract private investment under a Public-Private Partnership model for system installation and operations. A recent public consultation sought input to align the project with national needs and sustainable growth. Thai firms with rail experience are eligible to bid, while foreign companies, especially Chinese investors, are encouraged to partner locally given the railway’s direct link to China.

A 26-year-old Thai transwoman tourist was arrested in Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka, after walking topless along the beach, triggering backlash from locals and social media. Despite identifying as female, her Thai passport lists her as male, and Sri Lankan law prohibits toplessness for women. She pleaded guilty to indecent exposure and causing distress, receiving a six-week suspended jail sentence. She’ll avoid prison unless she reoffends within five years. The incident stirred debate in the conservative beach town, highlighting tensions over gender identity and public decency laws.

A disabled British tourist was robbed in a Pattaya hotel by a group of suspects who remain at large. After 16 years on the run, a woman was arrested for her role in her aunt’s murder. Thailand is tackling toxic pollution flowing from Myanmar that threatens public health. The government plans to open bidding for the Bangkok–Nong Khai high-speed rail project in 2026. A Thai transwoman tourist was arrested in Sri Lanka for a controversial beach stunt. Chiang Mai was named Asia’s best city for 2025, with Bangkok ranking third. Outrage erupted in Phuket after a dog was allegedly buried alive, and police raided a major illegal gambling den in Bangkok, seizing chips worth over 270 million baht. Chiang Mai tops Asia's best cities as Bangkok grabs 3rd place Chiang Mai has been ranked the No. 1 city in Asia in Travel + Leisure’s 2025 World’s Best Awards, scoring 91.94 and celebrated for its friendly people, mountain scenery, vibrant food scene, ancient temples like Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep, bustling night markets, and ethical elephant experiences. Bangkok also earned a top-tier position in the same ranking, coming in third in Asia (and fourth globally) with a score of 91.34, noted for its dynamic energy, cultural landmarks, world‑class cuisine, lively street markets, and nightlife. Topless Thai transwoman busted for beach stunt in Sri Lanka A 26‑year‑old Thai trans woman was arrested at Arugam Bay in Sri Lanka on July 14 after walking topless along a popular surf beach, prompting complaints of indecent exposure and public disturbance. She pled guilty in court, receiving a six‑week jail sentence suspended for five years, meaning she won't serve time unless she repeats the offence. Thailand opens bidding for Bangkok-Nong Khai high-speed rail 2026 Thailand’s State Railway (SRT) plans to launch the bidding process in Q3 2026 for the Bangkok–Nong Khai high‑speed rail project, moving forward through a public‑private partnership involving both Thai and international firms. The first phase from Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima aims for operation by 2029 with civil works already nearly half complete, while phase two toward Nong Khai is in final planning and expected to wrap up by 2031. Thailand fights back as Myanmar pollution threatens health crisis Thailand has launched an emergency response after heavy metals from Myanmar’s upstream mining were found contaminating the Kok and Sai rivers, posing serious health and environmental risks in northern Thailand. On July 15, the Cabinet endorsed National Human Rights Commission recommendations to protect affected communities and deployed teams to address and contain the pollution before it spreads into the wider Mekong River basin. Woman captured after 16 years on the run for aunt's murder A 47‑year‑old woman named Woraporn was arrested on July 15 in Nakhon Pathom after evading arrest for over 16 years in connection with her aunt Boonthing’s 2009 murder and concealment of her body in Pathum Thani following a family inheritance dispute. During interrogation she admitted involvement in a physical altercation but claimed her aunt was fatally struck by her mother, while she fled and only later learned of the burial and warrant. Disabled British Tourist Robbed by the Trio in Pattaya Hotel Room A 61‑year‑old mute British tourist in a wheelchair was robbed of approximately 6,000 baht in cash by three individuals—two Thai women and a transgender woman—whom he invited from Pattaya Beach to his Central Pattaya hotel room; they disappeared during his shower on July 16, taking his money and leaving him stranded in the dark. Pattaya police are reviewing CCTV footage, have collected an ID card from one suspect, and are actively searching for the trio to bring them to justice under Thai law. Foreigner Buries Dog Alive in Shocking Phuket Incident A foreign man in Rawai, Phuket, allegedly buried his Siberian husky alive in his backyard—leaving only its head exposed—until neighbours heard its cries and alerted authorities. Rescue teams from Soi Dog Foundation and local officials dug out the husky and two other dogs from the property; the buried dog is now receiving care and the owner is under police investigation for animal cruelty. Gamblers arrested, B274m in chips seized during Bangkok raid Twenty gamblers were arrested in a raid on a clandestine gambling den in Bangkok’s Bang Khae district, where police seized gambling chips worth over 274 million baht. The operation, which included Baccarat tables and cash alongside the chips, highlights intensified law enforcement efforts against large-scale illegal gambling rings in the city.

Six senior monks in Thailand have been defrocked and several more implicated after a 35-year-old woman, nicknamed “Miss Golf” or “Sika Kor”, allegedly lured them into sexual relationships and blackmailed them—with authorities uncovering over 80,000 compromising images and substantial transfers of temple funds totaling millions of baht. The scandal has prompted police raids on major temples, sparked a nationwide investigation into monastic discipline and financial transparency, and led to calls for urgent legal reforms to protect the credibility of Buddhism in Thailand.

Thailand’s government has scrapped its proposed 300 baht tourist tax for air travellers—originally intended to fund tourism infrastructure and insurance—fearing it could deter visitors and harm the weakened tourism sector. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin stated the revenue boost would be greater if tourists spent freely on goods and services instead, so the fee has been abandoned to encourage higher visitor spending.

A brief confrontation between Thai and Cambodian troops at the disputed Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple in Surin province led to the evacuation of tourists and a temporary ban on new visits to the site. The incident has heightened tensions in the ongoing border dispute between the two nations.

A recent NIDA poll conducted between 4–7 July reveals that 42.4% of Thais believe suspended PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra should resign and 39.9% want the House dissolved for fresh elections, while just 15% favour her remaining in post. The survey also shows 32.8% support former coup‑leader General Prayut Chan‑o‑cha as the next prime minister, dwarfing support for establishment figures like Chaikasem Nitisiri (10.9%) and Anutin Charnvirakul (11.5%).

Expats and foreign visitors have strongly criticised Pattaya’s new beach smoking ban—particularly at Dongtan/Jomtien beach—slamming it as ineffective and frustrating, with tourists reportedly ignoring the restrictions and vowing not to return if enforcement continues. Despite officials setting up designated smoking zones in public toilets behind the beach and warning that penalties could include fines of up to THB 100,000 or a year’s imprisonment, many feel it’s a pointless move that penalises smokers without changing behaviours.

A Thai man was arrested on 15 July after CCTV footage circulated showing him physically assaulting two autistic individuals—a woman and her seven-year-old nephew—while they waited for a bus outside a Chiang Mai shopping mall, allegedly provoked by barking stray dogs. Despite initial police reluctance to record the complaint, public outrage and pressure from a volunteer group led to his detention; the suspect, named Ek, admitted being intoxicated and offered 5,000 baht in compensation.

Local residents in Pattaya have raised concerns about an Iranian man living on the beach, pushing a trolley believed to be stolen from Big C and frequently approaching tourists for money, prompting complaints over safety, hygiene, and the city’s image. On 14 July, Chon Buri Immigration officers confirmed he holds a valid tourist visa and posed no criminal threat, but was warned to leave the beach and risk visa revocation if he continued his minimalist lifestyle there.

A British tourist attempted to pay a 2,000-baht taxi fare from Bangkok to Pattaya with a large packet of cannabis after claiming he had insufficient funds. The driver rejected the offer and reported the incident to Pattaya police, who later facilitated a resolution without charges.

A NIDA poll reveals over 80% of Thais want suspended PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra to step down or call fresh elections, reflecting political uncertainty. Meanwhile, social issues spark outrage as a man is arrested for assaulting autistic individuals in Chiang Mai. Pattaya’s new beach smoking ban faces backlash from tourists and expats, while local concerns grow over an Iranian national living on the beach. In government news, Thailand shelves its proposed tourist tax fearing it would deter visitors amid fragile tourism recovery. Religious trust is shaken as six senior monks are defrocked amid a scandal involving sex and blackmail. Cross-border tensions escalated with a Thai-Cambodian troop clash forcing tourist evacuations near Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple. Thai Poll Reveals Over 80% Want Suspended PM to Step Down A recent NIDA poll conducted between 4–7 July reveals that 42.4% of Thais believe suspended PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra should resign and 39.9% want the House dissolved for fresh elections, while just 15% favour her remaining in post. The survey also shows 32.8% support former coup‑leader General Prayut Chan‑o‑cha as the next prime minister, dwarfing support for establishment figures like Chaikasem Nitisiri (10.9%) and Anutin Charnvirakul (11.5%). Thai man arrested for assaulting autistic woman and boy in Chiang Mai A Thai man was arrested on 15 July after CCTV footage circulated showing him physically assaulting two autistic individuals—a woman and her seven-year-old nephew—while they waited for a bus outside a Chiang Mai shopping mall, allegedly provoked by barking stray dogs. Despite initial police reluctance to record the complaint, public outrage and pressure from a volunteer group led to his detention; the suspect, named Ek, admitted being intoxicated and offered 5,000 baht in compensation. Butts out: Beach smoke ban sparks flaming row in Pattaya Expats and foreign visitors have strongly criticised Pattaya’s new beach smoking ban—particularly at Dongtan/Jomtien beach—slamming it as ineffective and frustrating, with tourists reportedly ignoring the restrictions and vowing not to return if enforcement continues. Despite officials setting up designated smoking zones in public toilets behind the beach and warning that penalties could include fines of up to THB 100,000 or a year’s imprisonment, many feel it’s a pointless move that penalises smokers without changing behaviours. Concerns Raised Over Iranian National Living on Pattaya Beach Local residents in Pattaya have raised concerns about an Iranian man living on the beach, pushing a trolley believed to be stolen from Big C and frequently approaching tourists for money, prompting complaints over safety, hygiene, and the city’s image. On 14 July, Chon Buri Immigration officers confirmed he holds a valid tourist visa and posed no criminal threat, but was warned to leave the beach and risk visa revocation if he continued his minimalist lifestyle there. Thailand shelves tourist tax plan over fears of deterring visitors Thailand’s government has scrapped its proposed 300 baht tourist tax for air travellers—originally intended to fund tourism infrastructure and insurance—fearing it could deter visitors and harm the weakened tourism sector. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin stated the revenue boost would be greater if tourists spent freely on goods and services instead, so the fee has been abandoned to encourage higher visitor spending. Thailand defrocks 6 senior monks as sex and blackmail scandal engulfs Buddhist clergy Six senior monks in Thailand have been defrocked and several more implicated after a 35-year-old woman, nicknamed “Miss Golf” or “Sika Kor”, allegedly lured them into sexual relationships and blackmailed them—with authorities uncovering over 80,000 compromising images and substantial transfers of temple funds totaling millions of baht. The scandal has prompted police raids on major temples, sparked a nationwide investigation into monastic discipline and financial transparency, and led to calls for urgent legal reforms to protect the credibility of Buddhism in Thailand. Tourists evacuated after Thai-Cambodian troops scuffle at Ta Muen Thom A brief confrontation between Thai and Cambodian troops at the disputed Prasat Ta Muen Thom temple in Surin province led to the evacuation of tourists and a temporary ban on new visits to the site. The incident has heightened tensions in the ongoing border dispute between the two nations. British Tourist Offers Cannabis Instead of Cash for Bangkok-Pattaya Taxi A British tourist attempted to pay a 2,000-baht taxi fare from Bangkok to Pattaya with a large packet of cannabis after claiming he had insufficient funds. The driver rejected the offer and reported the incident to Pattaya police, who later facilitated a resolution without charges.

A naked American man, identified only as “Jack,” was rescued from a condo drainage pipe in Bangkok’s Chomthong district on Monday. Despite telling rescuers he didn’t need help, Jack crawled deeper into the pipe, bit a rescuer, and spoke incoherently. He was eventually pulled out by emergency teams using cutting equipment and canvas restraints. Displaying signs of drug intoxication, he suffered only minor abrasions and was taken to Somdet Chaopraya Hospital. Police are investigating how he entered the drainage system, and the U.S. Embassy has been contacted to inform his family.

UNESCO has added the Phra Prang of Wat Arun in Bangkok to its Tentative World Heritage List, marking the first step toward full recognition. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced the news, calling it a proud moment for Thailand. The Ministry of Culture is now preparing a formal nomination and preservation plan in line with international standards. In related news, Thailand has also nominated the traditional Thai outfit, Chud Thai, for UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, with a review set for 2026. Authorities have denied rumours of overlap with Cambodia’s cultural submissions.

Thailand has launched “TISI Watch,” an AI-powered system to crack down on unsafe or substandard products sold online. Initiated by Industry Minister Akanat Promphan on July 7, the system scans suspicious product links to ensure they meet Thai Industrial Standards. In five months, it flagged over 125,000 items and removed more than 2,800 listings. Offenders include unsafe plastics, toys, power strips, and motorcycle parts. With 777 legal cases underway, the project now aims to target counterfeit goods and fake licences. Authorities urge public help via the “Report to Industry” Line account.

Bangkok’s “Sukhumvit Model” aims to revamp the city’s busiest road into a safer, more liveable space. Launched by Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, the initiative targets illegal cannabis sales, drug trafficking, poor lighting, broken pavements, and noise pollution along a five-kilometre stretch of Sukhumvit Road. The plan involves collaboration with eight major agencies to address issues like homelessness, unlicensed taxis, and urban clutter. Officials hope this pilot project will set the standard for wider city improvements, boosting safety, quality of life, and tourist confidence across Bangkok.

A Thai man in Phuket is pleading for help after CCTV footage showed two foreign men taking his pet cat from outside his restaurant on July 13. Win Mungkon, who had cared for the once-stray cat for over two years, shared the video and details on social media, urging the men to return his pet. The men were seen driving off in a black Toyota sedan with licence plate กษ 2524. It's unclear if the car was theirs or rented. Netizens have advised contacting car rental firms. The case echoes a similar unsolved cat theft in Phuket last year.

In Phuket, a Thai man pleads for the return of his beloved cat caught on CCTV being taken by foreigners. Meanwhile, an ex-U.S. soldier is arrested in Pattaya after a violent outburst, and Bangkok launches major safety reforms on Sukhumvit Road. As Thailand strengthens its stance on online safety and heritage recognition, regional tensions rise with Cambodia’s announcement of a military draft. Plus, a naked American is pulled from a Bangkok drainpipe, and Hanoi sets a date to ban fossil-fuel bikes. CCTV Shows Foreigners Taking Pet Cat in Phuket A Thai man in Phuket is pleading for help after CCTV footage showed two foreign men taking his pet cat from outside his restaurant on July 13. Win Mungkon, who had cared for the once-stray cat for over two years, shared the video and details on social media, urging the men to return his pet. The men were seen driving off in a black Toyota sedan with licence plate กษ 2524. It's unclear if the car was theirs or rented. Netizens have advised contacting car rental firms. The case echoes a similar unsolved cat theft in Phuket last year. Ex-U.S. Soldier Arrested After Violent Episode in Pattaya A 65-year-old former U.S. soldier and language teacher, identified as “Mr. James,” was arrested in Pattaya on 13 July after causing a disturbance at a beer bar on Soi 5, Pratumnak. Witnesses say he became aggressive after being rejected by a female staff member—spitting at employees, kicking a menu board, and later returning with a metal rod and sharp object. Security intervened and detained him until police arrived. Authorities say he appeared intoxicated or disturbed and will face legal action if no settlement is reached over the damages caused. Thailand’s AI Watchdog Cracks Down on Dangerous Online Goods Thailand has launched “TISI Watch,” an AI-powered system to crack down on unsafe or substandard products sold online. Initiated by Industry Minister Akanat Promphan on July 7, the system scans suspicious product links to ensure they meet Thai Industrial Standards. In five months, it flagged over 125,000 items and removed more than 2,800 listings. Offenders include unsafe plastics, toys, power strips, and motorcycle parts. With 777 legal cases underway, the project now aims to target counterfeit goods and fake licences. Authorities urge public help via the “Report to Industry” Line account. Bangkok's Sukhumvit Road Set for Major Safety Overhaul Bangkok’s “Sukhumvit Model” aims to revamp the city’s busiest road into a safer, more liveable space. Launched by Governor Chadchart Sittipunt, the initiative targets illegal cannabis sales, drug trafficking, poor lighting, broken pavements, and noise pollution along a five-kilometre stretch of Sukhumvit Road. The plan involves collaboration with eight major agencies to address issues like homelessness, unlicensed taxis, and urban clutter. Officials hope this pilot project will set the standard for wider city improvements, boosting safety, quality of life, and tourist confidence across Bangkok. Wat Arun Moves Closer to UNESCO World Heritage Status UNESCO has added the Phra Prang of Wat Arun in Bangkok to its Tentative World Heritage List, marking the first step toward full recognition. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra announced the news, calling it a proud moment for Thailand. The Ministry of Culture is now preparing a formal nomination and preservation plan in line with international standards. In related news, Thailand has also nominated the traditional Thai outfit, Chud Thai, for UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, with a review set for 2026. Authorities have denied rumours of overlap with Cambodia’s cultural submissions. Cambodia to Enforce Military Draft Amid Border Tensions with Thailand Cambodia will enforce military conscription from 2026, Prime Minister Hun Manet announced, citing rising tensions with Thailand. Although a 2006 law mandated 18-month service for citizens aged 18–30, it was never enacted. The new plan extends service to 24 months. This follows a fatal border clash at the Emerald Triangle in May and worsening relations with Thailand, including suspended border trade and a political crisis in Bangkok. A leaked call between Thai PM Paetongtarn and ex-Cambodian leader Hun Sen has further strained ties, prompting legal scrutiny. Naked American Pulled from Bangkok Drainpipe After Bizarre Standoff with Rescuers A naked American man, identified only as “Jack,” was rescued from a condo drainage pipe in Bangkok’s Chomthong district on Monday. Despite telling rescuers he didn’t need help, Jack crawled deeper into the pipe, bit a rescuer, and spoke incoherently. He was eventually pulled out by emergency teams using cutting equipment and canvas restraints. Displaying signs of drug intoxication, he suffered only minor abrasions and was taken to Somdet Chaopraya Hospital. Police are investigating how he entered the drainage system, and the U.S. Embassy has been contacted to inform his family. Hanoi to Ban Fossil-Fuel Motorcycles in Push for Cleaner Air Starting July 2026, Vietnam will ban fossil-fuel motorcycles and mopeds from central Hanoi to tackle worsening air pollution. The directive targets areas within the city’s main ring road, affecting millions who rely on two-wheelers. With nearly 7 million motorcycles in Hanoi, concerns are mounting over the impact on low-income workers like delivery riders and taxi drivers. Critics say the timeline is too short and public transport alternatives are insufficient. A broader phase, including more bans, will begin in 2028. The plan is part of Vietnam’s push toward electric vehicles and environmental reform. Blunt Reality Check: American Expat Warns Dream Retirees About the Harsh Truths of Life in Thailand Retired American expat James David Spivey has issued a sobering warning for dreamers hoping to retire in Thailand. In his new book, How to Retire to Thailand Without F’ing It Up, the former finance mogul recounts how many men arrive with fantasies but end up broke, lost, or trapped in toxic habits. Drawing from personal experience, he stresses that Thailand demands structure, purpose, and realism—not just visas and beach dreams. Spivey offers hard-earned advice to help expats thrive with dignity and intention, rather than fall victim to the seductive pitfalls of an unplanned paradise.

A dinner among four South Korean friends at a hotpot restaurant in Pattaya turned violent, prompting a police response. Officers from Pattaya City Police detained the group after an internal dispute escalated into a physical altercation. The restaurant owner filed a complaint for damages and unpaid food bills, estimating losses at 50,000 baht per person. The tourists were charged with public affray and disturbing the peace, agreed to pay for the damages, and were fined before being released.

A 13-year-old French boy was safely reunited with his father after accidentally disembarking a ferry at Koh Phangan instead of continuing to Koh Samui. The incident occurred on 10 July, leaving the father, Mr Nicolas, stranded as the ferry departed. Tourist police quickly located the boy near Thong Sala Pier, cared for him overnight, and reunited the pair the next morning. The emotional reunion moved Mr Nicolas to tears, as he praised the officers' swift and compassionate response.