https://aseannow.com/rss/44-thailand-news.xml/National and regional news from all around Thailandenhttps://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-labour-minister-seeks-italy-jobs-deal-in-geneva-r2425/Thailand has moved to expand overseas employment opportunities after its Labour Minister held talks with Italy to advance a potential labour agreement that could allow between 20,000 and 30,000 Thai workers per year to access the Italian job market. The discussions took place during the 114th International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva, Switzerland, where both sides focused on establishing legal employment channels and improving labour mobility between the two countries. Get today's headlines by email According to the Thai government, Minister for Labour and Social Welfare H.E. Marina Elvira Calderone met with Thailand’s Minister of Labour, Julpun Amornvivat, to strengthen bilateral cooperation. Italy has included Thailand in its draft labour framework, known as the Flows Decree or Decreto Flussi 2026-2028, which governs the legal entry of non-European Union workers. The programme provides for more than 500,000 total quotas for non-EU workers over the 2026-2028 period, covering seasonal and general employment categories. Thai authorities said Italy has expressed interest in recruiting Thai workers for sectors facing labour shortages, including agriculture, healthcare and services. The proposed arrangement would allow Thai nationals to work in both seasonal and long-term roles, subject to the completion of a bilateral memorandum of understanding (MOU) currently being prioritised by both governments. Officials said the MOU is intended to provide a structured legal pathway for Thai workers, reducing reliance on informal recruitment channels and lowering the risk of exploitation by illegal brokers. It is also expected to improve labour rights protection, welfare standards and working conditions in line with international norms. Both sides also agreed to expand cooperation in four key areas: the development of vocational education and joint training centres, exchange of expertise on pension systems, strengthening labour protection and family welfare policies, and increasing access for Thai workers to European labour markets. Thailand also expressed interest in Italy’s dual-track education model, which links technical education with workplace training, as well as its workplace safety standards and the “Right to Disconnect” principle limiting after-hours work contact. Komchadluek reported that if finalised, the agreement would position Italy as a major new European destination for Thai labour, amid rising demand for foreign workers in key sectors. It would also mark a significant step in Thailand’s broader strategy to enhance workforce skills and expand regulated overseas employment opportunities. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Komchadluek 22 June 2026Sun, 21 Jun 2026 21:39:28 +0000Thailand has moved to expand overseas employment opportunities after its Labour Minister held talks with Italy to advance a potential labour agreement that could allow between 20,000 and 30,000 Thai workers per year to access the Italian job market. The discussions took place during the 114th International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva, Switzerland, where both sides focused on establishing legal employment channels and improving labour mobility between the two countries. Get today's headlines by email According to the Thai government, Minister for Labour and Social Welfare H.E. Marina Elvira Calderone met with Thailand’s Minister of Labour, Julpun Amornvivat, to strengthen bilateral cooperation. Italy has included Thailand in its draft labour framework, known as the Flows Decree or Decreto Flussi 2026-2028, which governs the legal entry of non-European Union workers. The programme provides for more than 500,000 total quotas for non-EU workers over the 2026-2028 period, covering seasonal and general employment categories. Thai authorities said Italy has expressed interest in recruiting Thai workers for sectors facing labour shortages, including agriculture, healthcare and services. The proposed arrangement would allow Thai nationals to work in both seasonal and long-term roles, subject to the completion of a bilateral memorandum of understanding (MOU) currently being prioritised by both governments. Officials said the MOU is intended to provide a structured legal pathway for Thai workers, reducing reliance on informal recruitment channels and lowering the risk of exploitation by illegal brokers. It is also expected to improve labour rights protection, welfare standards and working conditions in line with international norms. Both sides also agreed to expand cooperation in four key areas: the development of vocational education and joint training centres, exchange of expertise on pension systems, strengthening labour protection and family welfare policies, and increasing access for Thai workers to European labour markets. Thailand also expressed interest in Italy’s dual-track education model, which links technical education with workplace training, as well as its workplace safety standards and the “Right to Disconnect” principle limiting after-hours work contact. Komchadluek reported that if finalised, the agreement would position Italy as a major new European destination for Thai labour, amid rising demand for foreign workers in key sectors. It would also mark a significant step in Thailand’s broader strategy to enhance workforce skills and expand regulated overseas employment opportunities. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Komchadluek 22 June 2026 View full articleSun, 21 Jun 2026 21:39:28 +0000Who is mad? Obviously, Mad Dogs are not mad: BUT, I don't WANT to be among mad people, said Alice. Unfortunately, just like Alice, we have no choice, apparently.Sun, 21 Jun 2026 21:38:28 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/deputy-mayors-illegal-dental-clinic-raided-in-rayong-r2424/Officials from the Rayong Provincial Public Health Office, working with Crime Suppression Division police Region 2, have raided an illegal dental clinic in Klaeng district, Rayong province, where a deputy mayor was found allegedly posing as a dentist without any professional licence. One patient was found undergoing a tooth extraction at the time of the raid, and all services were immediately stopped. Get today's headlines by email The operation took place on 20 June when Ms Pimolwan Sirigjirachai, a senior pharmacist at the Rayong Provincial Public Health Office, led a joint team with investigators from Provincial Police Region 2 to execute a search warrant issued by Rayong Provincial Court. Officers entered a premises operating under the name “Khao Din Dental Clinic” in Village 1, Thung Khwai Kin subdistrict, following repeated complaints from local residents about unlicensed dental services. During the search, officers found a man identified as Mr Somprasong, a deputy mayor of a subdistrict administrative organisation in Chon Buri province, who presented himself as the clinic owner and claimed to be a dentist. However, he was unable to produce either a valid dental professional licence or a licence to operate a healthcare facility when requested by officials. Inside the premises, authorities discovered a range of dental equipment including treatment instruments, dentures, and other clinical tools, along with a patient receiving treatment. A second individual, Ms Korpachara, who was responsible for screening and managing customers, was also detained for questioning. All equipment and materials were recorded as evidence. Picture courtesy of Daily News The Rayong Provincial Public Health Office stated that preliminary inspections indicated the clinic had been operating illegally for a prolonged period, possibly 10 years. Officials also noted that the facility did not meet basic hygiene standards required for medical establishments, prompting repeated public complaints before enforcement action was taken. Mr Somprasong and others involved face multiple charges, including operating a healthcare facility without permission, providing dental treatment without a licence, and selling modern pharmaceuticals without authorisation. The suspects, along with seized items, were handed over to Klaeng Police Station for further legal proceedings. Daily News reported that authorities said the case will now proceed through formal investigation channels, with further examination of the clinic’s operations and any additional individuals involved in its management or service provision. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 22 June 2026Sun, 21 Jun 2026 21:32:43 +0000Officials from the Rayong Provincial Public Health Office, working with Crime Suppression Division police Region 2, have raided an illegal dental clinic in Klaeng district, Rayong province, where a deputy mayor was found allegedly posing as a dentist without any professional licence. One patient was found undergoing a tooth extraction at the time of the raid, and all services were immediately stopped. Get today's headlines by email The operation took place on 20 June when Ms Pimolwan Sirigjirachai, a senior pharmacist at the Rayong Provincial Public Health Office, led a joint team with investigators from Provincial Police Region 2 to execute a search warrant issued by Rayong Provincial Court. Officers entered a premises operating under the name “Khao Din Dental Clinic” in Village 1, Thung Khwai Kin subdistrict, following repeated complaints from local residents about unlicensed dental services. During the search, officers found a man identified as Mr Somprasong, a deputy mayor of a subdistrict administrative organisation in Chon Buri province, who presented himself as the clinic owner and claimed to be a dentist. However, he was unable to produce either a valid dental professional licence or a licence to operate a healthcare facility when requested by officials. Inside the premises, authorities discovered a range of dental equipment including treatment instruments, dentures, and other clinical tools, along with a patient receiving treatment. A second individual, Ms Korpachara, who was responsible for screening and managing customers, was also detained for questioning. All equipment and materials were recorded as evidence. Picture courtesy of Daily News The Rayong Provincial Public Health Office stated that preliminary inspections indicated the clinic had been operating illegally for a prolonged period, possibly 10 years. Officials also noted that the facility did not meet basic hygiene standards required for medical establishments, prompting repeated public complaints before enforcement action was taken. Mr Somprasong and others involved face multiple charges, including operating a healthcare facility without permission, providing dental treatment without a licence, and selling modern pharmaceuticals without authorisation. The suspects, along with seized items, were handed over to Klaeng Police Station for further legal proceedings. Daily News reported that authorities said the case will now proceed through formal investigation channels, with further examination of the clinic’s operations and any additional individuals involved in its management or service provision. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 22 June 2026 View full articleSun, 21 Jun 2026 21:32:43 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/foreign-nationals-defecate-outside-patong-shop-r2423/Two foreign females were caught on CCTV defecating outside a shop in Patong, Phuket, prompting complaints from local business owners and residents over hygiene and public behaviour. Get today's headlines by email The incident took place at around 5pm on 20 June 2026 outside a shop in Patong, Kathu district. According to CCTV footage, the two women stopped outside the premises while the shop was closed and had not yet opened for business. The footage reportedly shows one of the women was experiencing severe stomach discomfort and being unable to hold on. She then squatted and defecated on the pavement directly outside the shop, against a covered display unit. Afterwards, she used tissue paper to clean herself before leaving the area with her companion. The waste was left behind, leaving the shop owner to deal with the aftermath. Images from the CCTV system were later shared locally online, drawing attention to the incident and sparking discussion among business operators in the area. Several local traders expressed dissatisfaction, saying the act affected hygiene standards and reflected poorly on the image of the shopping district. The identities and nationalities of the two women have not been established. No information has been released indicating whether the pair were tourists staying in Phuket or residents of the area. There has been no confirmation that the shop owner has filed a formal complaint with police. Authorities have also not announced any investigation or legal action in connection with the incident. Amarin reported the case has renewed discussion about public behaviour in popular tourist destinations and the challenges faced by businesses. Whether any further action will be taken remains unclear. Authorities have yet to provide an official statement regarding possible enforcement measures or efforts to identify those involved. Picture courtesy of Amarin Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 22 June 2026Sun, 21 Jun 2026 21:24:49 +0000Two foreign females were caught on CCTV defecating outside a shop in Patong, Phuket, prompting complaints from local business owners and residents over hygiene and public behaviour. Get today's headlines by email The incident took place at around 5pm on 20 June 2026 outside a shop in Patong, Kathu district. According to CCTV footage, the two women stopped outside the premises while the shop was closed and had not yet opened for business. The footage reportedly shows one of the women was experiencing severe stomach discomfort and being unable to hold on. She then squatted and defecated on the pavement directly outside the shop, against a covered display unit. Afterwards, she used tissue paper to clean herself before leaving the area with her companion. The waste was left behind, leaving the shop owner to deal with the aftermath. Images from the CCTV system were later shared locally online, drawing attention to the incident and sparking discussion among business operators in the area. Several local traders expressed dissatisfaction, saying the act affected hygiene standards and reflected poorly on the image of the shopping district. The identities and nationalities of the two women have not been established. No information has been released indicating whether the pair were tourists staying in Phuket or residents of the area. There has been no confirmation that the shop owner has filed a formal complaint with police. Authorities have also not announced any investigation or legal action in connection with the incident. Amarin reported the case has renewed discussion about public behaviour in popular tourist destinations and the challenges faced by businesses. Whether any further action will be taken remains unclear. Authorities have yet to provide an official statement regarding possible enforcement measures or efforts to identify those involved. Picture courtesy of Amarin Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 22 June 2026 View full articleSun, 21 Jun 2026 21:24:49 +0000Speaking of MADNESS..... Will we ever speak out against the MADNESS? The MADNESS seems endemic.....so solly to say.... Tom Jones knows..... Maybe, someday, they will pave over our parking lots....to make paradise? MADNESS... MADNESS...Sun, 21 Jun 2026 21:19:03 +0000Not commenting on the underage part of this story; but I wondered for many, many years, how it is possible that bars charge a bar fine without this being actually benefiting from prostitution. I guess, this practice will go on, but another juicy revenue stream for brown envelopes has just opened up country-wide!Sun, 21 Jun 2026 21:17:39 +0000I use final Cut Pro.Sun, 21 Jun 2026 21:16:45 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-government-denies-press-pressure-claims-r2422/The Thai government on 20 June 2026 denied claims that it is monitoring or pressuring news organisations, stating it has no policy to interfere with or block the media. Ms. Rachada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, said reports suggesting special surveillance of certain outlets are incorrect. She said the government has issued no orders to interfere or take action to pressure media in carrying out their duties. Get today's headlines by email She also reaffirmed that press freedom is a key mechanism in a democratic system under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s leadership. Reports had circulated alleging increased scrutiny of certain media outlets, alongside the cancellation of the “Inside Thailand” programme. Rachada said the cancellation was not the result of any government order or interference, and does not prevent media outlets or presenters from scrutinising or criticising the government. The programme, aired on state-owned MCOT TV, had featured commentary by Danai “Mah Kae” Ekmahasawat and had been critical of the TH-AI Passport project, a digital identity initiative valued at 1.6 billion baht. Thai Newsroom reported claims from an opposition lawmaker linking the cancellation to displeasure from Newin Chidchob, a de facto Bhumjaithai figure, regarding criticism of his son, Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaichanok Chidchob. That reporting also suggested political influence behind the decision, though these claims remain unverified in the government’s statement. Rachada emphasised respect for all media outlets, including mainstream, online and citizen producers, particularly those reporting facts and public interest. Opposition People’s MP Pukkamon Nunarnan was cited in earlier reports as alleging that political pressure from Newin Chidchob may have contributed to the programme’s termination. The government, however, rejected any suggestion of interference and maintained that media organisations can continue their work normally. The issue has contributed to renewed debate over media independence and scrutiny of government-linked projects. The government said no further actions have been announced regarding media regulation or programme scheduling decisions. Media outlets are expected to continue operating based on factual reporting and social responsibility standards. Authorities reiterated that no restrictions have been placed on criticism of government policies or projects. Picture courtesy of TNR of Danai “Mah Kae” Ekmahasawat Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thai newsroom 22 June 2026Sun, 21 Jun 2026 21:12:05 +0000The Thai government on 20 June 2026 denied claims that it is monitoring or pressuring news organisations, stating it has no policy to interfere with or block the media. Ms. Rachada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, said reports suggesting special surveillance of certain outlets are incorrect. She said the government has issued no orders to interfere or take action to pressure media in carrying out their duties. Get today's headlines by email She also reaffirmed that press freedom is a key mechanism in a democratic system under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s leadership. Reports had circulated alleging increased scrutiny of certain media outlets, alongside the cancellation of the “Inside Thailand” programme. Rachada said the cancellation was not the result of any government order or interference, and does not prevent media outlets or presenters from scrutinising or criticising the government. The programme, aired on state-owned MCOT TV, had featured commentary by Danai “Mah Kae” Ekmahasawat and had been critical of the TH-AI Passport project, a digital identity initiative valued at 1.6 billion baht. Thai Newsroom reported claims from an opposition lawmaker linking the cancellation to displeasure from Newin Chidchob, a de facto Bhumjaithai figure, regarding criticism of his son, Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaichanok Chidchob. That reporting also suggested political influence behind the decision, though these claims remain unverified in the government’s statement. Rachada emphasised respect for all media outlets, including mainstream, online and citizen producers, particularly those reporting facts and public interest. Opposition People’s MP Pukkamon Nunarnan was cited in earlier reports as alleging that political pressure from Newin Chidchob may have contributed to the programme’s termination. The government, however, rejected any suggestion of interference and maintained that media organisations can continue their work normally. The issue has contributed to renewed debate over media independence and scrutiny of government-linked projects. The government said no further actions have been announced regarding media regulation or programme scheduling decisions. Media outlets are expected to continue operating based on factual reporting and social responsibility standards. Authorities reiterated that no restrictions have been placed on criticism of government policies or projects. Picture courtesy of TNR of Danai “Mah Kae” Ekmahasawat Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thai newsroom 22 June 2026 View full articleSun, 21 Jun 2026 21:12:05 +0000You only had to say you don't want to answer the question, rather than the insult. Blocked. Ta Ta.Sun, 21 Jun 2026 21:06:33 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-police-stop-van-carrying-migrants-in-kamphaeng-phet-r2421/Highway police and the Anti-Human Trafficking Division intercepted a Toyota van on 20 June 2026, carrying nine illegal migrants at a PTT petrol station in Tambon Songtham, Mueang Kamphaeng Phet, as the vehicle travelled towards the Thai-Myanmar border. The group was suspected of being transported to work for scam networks in Myanmar, and the operation led to the immediate arrest of those involved. Get today's headlines by email The operation followed urgent intelligence provided by a former scam centre victim in Dubai, who reported receiving messages from foreign nationals requesting help while being held inside a moving vehicle. Acting on the tip, officers tracked the van and coordinated a stop along its route. Inside the vehicle, police found nine migrants of multiple nationalities: four from Nigeria, two from India, one from Cameroon, one from Uganda and one from Vietnam. The driver was identified as 31-year-old Myanmar national Than So Tun. During questioning, the driver admitted he had been hired via Telegram by an alleged broker known as “Ko Yae” to collect passengers from Bang Kapi and Suvarnabhumi area and transport them to Tak province for onward crossing into Myanmar. He said he was paid 2,000 baht per person and confirmed this was the third vehicle in a coordinated trafficking chain, with all migrants originally entering from Cambodia. Authorities stated the case is being treated as part of a wider transnational human trafficking and scam network investigation. The migrants were found to have either no valid documentation or had entered Thailand through irregular border routes. Pictures courtesy of Daily News All suspects have been taken to Songtham Police Station for legal proceedings, while investigators prepare to expand the case to identify senior members of the trafficking network and dismantle further operations along the route. The investigation remains ongoing as police are continuing enquiries into the wider network in Thailand. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 22 June 2026Sun, 21 Jun 2026 21:03:15 +0000Highway police and the Anti-Human Trafficking Division intercepted a Toyota van on 20 June 2026, carrying nine illegal migrants at a PTT petrol station in Tambon Songtham, Mueang Kamphaeng Phet, as the vehicle travelled towards the Thai-Myanmar border. The group was suspected of being transported to work for scam networks in Myanmar, and the operation led to the immediate arrest of those involved. Get today's headlines by email The operation followed urgent intelligence provided by a former scam centre victim in Dubai, who reported receiving messages from foreign nationals requesting help while being held inside a moving vehicle. Acting on the tip, officers tracked the van and coordinated a stop along its route. Inside the vehicle, police found nine migrants of multiple nationalities: four from Nigeria, two from India, one from Cameroon, one from Uganda and one from Vietnam. The driver was identified as 31-year-old Myanmar national Than So Tun. During questioning, the driver admitted he had been hired via Telegram by an alleged broker known as “Ko Yae” to collect passengers from Bang Kapi and Suvarnabhumi area and transport them to Tak province for onward crossing into Myanmar. He said he was paid 2,000 baht per person and confirmed this was the third vehicle in a coordinated trafficking chain, with all migrants originally entering from Cambodia. Authorities stated the case is being treated as part of a wider transnational human trafficking and scam network investigation. The migrants were found to have either no valid documentation or had entered Thailand through irregular border routes. Pictures courtesy of Daily News All suspects have been taken to Songtham Police Station for legal proceedings, while investigators prepare to expand the case to identify senior members of the trafficking network and dismantle further operations along the route. The investigation remains ongoing as police are continuing enquiries into the wider network in Thailand. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 22 June 2026 View full articleSun, 21 Jun 2026 21:03:15 +0000That’s Trumps Nobel Peace Prize down the toilet again.Sun, 21 Jun 2026 21:00:18 +0000Sorry pal, we're not all retired carpet fitters - some of us had a proper education and can write without sentances, paragraphs, even books without assistance. SOrry if your parents and teachers failed u but no need to take it out on me : ) Anyway, goverments often lie to engineer consent (**** me - can't believe I need to explain this : ). There's a book called 'Manufacturing Consent (Chomsky) but sinvce u dont have the required attention span for a whole book here goes... Govt and MSM fake stories to engineer domestic civil unrest by incentivizing domestic terrorism for the TIC (Technical Industrial Complex)’s police and survellance state. They need civil unrest in the west (at home) to manufacture a police and Survellance state. The TIC complex is located in US but has global nodes. More MSM stories are fake than you realise. There are some famous examoles like the Lusitania, WMDs and Coldvid modelling which were used as excuses to print money and give contracts to buddies in the private sector. Tip of the iceberg FWIW, Obama removed the law stopping the US govt from using propoganda against the public. No such law has ever existed in the yookay. Either way, white UK men don't go around stabbing randoms. Never have, never will. Not even drunken jocks. Not even insane drunken jucks. It never happened in the past and didn't happen the other day. FAKE NEWS imho Many (most?) 'normal' people are very thick (like yourself Barry) so believe anything they see on the news eg, Jocks stabbing multiple randos and Skittles suing the NHS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttWlCcOFqusSun, 21 Jun 2026 20:59:23 +0000Me too! That Horse with No Name thing drove me nuts.Sun, 21 Jun 2026 20:54:51 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/chinese-capital-network-linked-to-crypto-mining-probe-r2420/Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has expanded its investigation into illegal cryptocurrency mining operations, uncovering alleged links to grey Chinese capital networks, transnational money laundering and financial flows exceeding 10 billion baht per year. The widening probe highlights concerns over the scale of organised criminal activity linked to digital asset operations and their impact on Thailand’s economic security. Get today's headlines by email The investigation follows action taken in 2025 by the DSI’s Technology and Cyber Crime Bureau, which dismantled three major networks accused of illegally using electricity for cryptocurrency mining. Authorities seized more than 6,390 mining machines and estimated losses to the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) at more than 953 million baht. Officials described the case as one of the highest-value instances of illegal use of state utilities in recent years. Investigators also found evidence allegedly linking some state officials to assisting or facilitating the operations. The DSI has already forwarded two case files to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), involving seven electricity authority officials, one law enforcement officer, and 13 investors or alleged accomplices. As the investigation expanded, authorities began examining Chinese investment groups believed to play a significant role in managing a large financial network in Thailand. Investigators uncovered information and evidence allegedly connected to money laundering from technology-related crimes, including call centre scams and transnational online gambling operations. Analysis of financial records revealed unusually high levels of activity in bank accounts and corporate entities linked to the network. Investigators found that Myanmar nationals were allegedly used to withdraw cash from Thai financial institutions at a rate of approximately 30 million to 50 million baht per day. The network’s annual financial transactions were estimated at no less than 10 billion baht, indicating a complex structure capable of moving large volumes of assets. The DSI also received information from US law enforcement agencies identifying Wang Yicheng as a suspect in a major digital asset fraud case. The US Secret Service seized digital assets linked to Wang worth more than US$17.8 million, in connection with losses exceeding 2 billion baht. Authorities have issued arrest warrants for eight suspects, comprising four Chinese financiers and four Myanmar team members. The DSI is also seeking approval for seven additional arrest warrants and has summoned five other individuals to acknowledge charges. The Nation reported that the department said it will accelerate evidence gathering before submitting the completed case file to special case prosecutors. Investigators stated that illegal electricity use for cryptocurrency mining is not merely theft of power but also a mechanism used by transnational criminal organisations to generate income, launder money and support technology-related crime networks. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 22 June 2026Sun, 21 Jun 2026 20:54:18 +0000Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has expanded its investigation into illegal cryptocurrency mining operations, uncovering alleged links to grey Chinese capital networks, transnational money laundering and financial flows exceeding 10 billion baht per year. The widening probe highlights concerns over the scale of organised criminal activity linked to digital asset operations and their impact on Thailand’s economic security. Get today's headlines by email The investigation follows action taken in 2025 by the DSI’s Technology and Cyber Crime Bureau, which dismantled three major networks accused of illegally using electricity for cryptocurrency mining. Authorities seized more than 6,390 mining machines and estimated losses to the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA) at more than 953 million baht. Officials described the case as one of the highest-value instances of illegal use of state utilities in recent years. Investigators also found evidence allegedly linking some state officials to assisting or facilitating the operations. The DSI has already forwarded two case files to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), involving seven electricity authority officials, one law enforcement officer, and 13 investors or alleged accomplices. As the investigation expanded, authorities began examining Chinese investment groups believed to play a significant role in managing a large financial network in Thailand. Investigators uncovered information and evidence allegedly connected to money laundering from technology-related crimes, including call centre scams and transnational online gambling operations. Analysis of financial records revealed unusually high levels of activity in bank accounts and corporate entities linked to the network. Investigators found that Myanmar nationals were allegedly used to withdraw cash from Thai financial institutions at a rate of approximately 30 million to 50 million baht per day. The network’s annual financial transactions were estimated at no less than 10 billion baht, indicating a complex structure capable of moving large volumes of assets. The DSI also received information from US law enforcement agencies identifying Wang Yicheng as a suspect in a major digital asset fraud case. The US Secret Service seized digital assets linked to Wang worth more than US$17.8 million, in connection with losses exceeding 2 billion baht. Authorities have issued arrest warrants for eight suspects, comprising four Chinese financiers and four Myanmar team members. The DSI is also seeking approval for seven additional arrest warrants and has summoned five other individuals to acknowledge charges. The Nation reported that the department said it will accelerate evidence gathering before submitting the completed case file to special case prosecutors. Investigators stated that illegal electricity use for cryptocurrency mining is not merely theft of power but also a mechanism used by transnational criminal organisations to generate income, launder money and support technology-related crime networks. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 22 June 2026 View full articleSun, 21 Jun 2026 20:54:18 +0000I cook at home most days because Thais use the cheapest ingredients, meat, rice, oil etc. I also like a lot of vegetables, 500g for my thai mealsSun, 21 Jun 2026 20:48:34 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thailand-driving-out-foreigners-it-once-courted-r2419/Thailand is pursuing two major policy directions that appear to conflict with one another: opening its economy to foreign business while intensifying enforcement against foreign-linked property ownership structures. Get today's headlines by email The contrast has become increasingly visible following reforms to the Foreign Business Act. In April 2025, the Cabinet approved the most significant overhaul of the law in 25 years. In January 2026, it confirmed plans to remove ten business categories, including software development, from restricted lists, allowing foreign companies to operate without local partners or special licences. The reforms form part of the Thailand 4.0 strategy aimed at improving competitiveness and attracting investment. Now authorities have launched an extensive crackdown on nominee company structures used by some foreigners to control land. New rules require Thai shareholders in foreign-linked companies to prove that invested funds genuinely belong to them. Authorities have also introduced data-sharing systems between agencies and analytical tools designed to identify suspicious ownership arrangements. Enforcement activity has increased significantly. In May 2026, a major operation on Koh Phangan resulted in 22 arrests and the seizure of more than 40 rai of land. Police are also using criminal procedures in investigations involving alleged nominee arrangements. The crackdown targets structures where Thai shareholders act only as legal fronts while foreigners effectively control assets. Authorities argue such arrangements violate Thai law and amount to fraud. However, concerns have emerged that some long-term foreign residents who purchased property through company structures recommended by legal advisers years ago may also be affected. The debate is rooted in previous attempts to reform foreign property ownership rules. In late 2022, Thailand’s Cabinet approved a proposal that would have allowed qualifying foreigners to legally own small residential land plots. Supporters argued that foreigners already gained access to property through leases, condominium ownership quotas and nominee companies, and that the proposal would provide a transparent legal alternative. The proposal was withdrawn less than two weeks later following political opposition. In March 2025, the Supreme Court also ruled against a long-lease renewal structure that many foreign buyers had relied upon for additional security. Supporters of reform argue that restrictive laws encourage the very workarounds now being targeted. They point to broader business reforms as evidence that Thailand has already accepted the principle of creating legal pathways while enforcing existing laws against abuse. Some observers believe the current crackdown may be part of a broader strategy to clear out unlawful structures before introducing new legal ownership frameworks. Others warn that enforcement without further reform could discourage investment and prompt foreign capital to move elsewhere. Regional competition is increasing. Malaysia permits foreign freehold ownership subject to minimum-price requirements, while Indonesia offers foreigners registered property rights lasting up to 80 years. Other neighbouring countries have also introduced clearer frameworks for foreign property investment. The Thaiger reported that the attention will now focus on whether Thailand introduces new legal routes for foreign property ownership or long-term leases. Proposals frequently discussed include reviving elements of the 2022 ownership framework, strengthening lease protections and updating condominium regulations. The outcome could determine whether Thailand’s property policies ultimately align with its broader efforts to attract foreign investment and support economic modernisation. Pictures courtesy of The Thaiger Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now TheThaiger 22 June 2026Sun, 21 Jun 2026 20:47:21 +0000Thailand is pursuing two major policy directions that appear to conflict with one another: opening its economy to foreign business while intensifying enforcement against foreign-linked property ownership structures. Get today's headlines by email The contrast has become increasingly visible following reforms to the Foreign Business Act. In April 2025, the Cabinet approved the most significant overhaul of the law in 25 years. In January 2026, it confirmed plans to remove ten business categories, including software development, from restricted lists, allowing foreign companies to operate without local partners or special licences. The reforms form part of the Thailand 4.0 strategy aimed at improving competitiveness and attracting investment. Now authorities have launched an extensive crackdown on nominee company structures used by some foreigners to control land. New rules require Thai shareholders in foreign-linked companies to prove that invested funds genuinely belong to them. Authorities have also introduced data-sharing systems between agencies and analytical tools designed to identify suspicious ownership arrangements. Enforcement activity has increased significantly. In May 2026, a major operation on Koh Phangan resulted in 22 arrests and the seizure of more than 40 rai of land. Police are also using criminal procedures in investigations involving alleged nominee arrangements. The crackdown targets structures where Thai shareholders act only as legal fronts while foreigners effectively control assets. Authorities argue such arrangements violate Thai law and amount to fraud. However, concerns have emerged that some long-term foreign residents who purchased property through company structures recommended by legal advisers years ago may also be affected. The debate is rooted in previous attempts to reform foreign property ownership rules. In late 2022, Thailand’s Cabinet approved a proposal that would have allowed qualifying foreigners to legally own small residential land plots. Supporters argued that foreigners already gained access to property through leases, condominium ownership quotas and nominee companies, and that the proposal would provide a transparent legal alternative. The proposal was withdrawn less than two weeks later following political opposition. In March 2025, the Supreme Court also ruled against a long-lease renewal structure that many foreign buyers had relied upon for additional security. Supporters of reform argue that restrictive laws encourage the very workarounds now being targeted. They point to broader business reforms as evidence that Thailand has already accepted the principle of creating legal pathways while enforcing existing laws against abuse. Some observers believe the current crackdown may be part of a broader strategy to clear out unlawful structures before introducing new legal ownership frameworks. Others warn that enforcement without further reform could discourage investment and prompt foreign capital to move elsewhere. Regional competition is increasing. Malaysia permits foreign freehold ownership subject to minimum-price requirements, while Indonesia offers foreigners registered property rights lasting up to 80 years. Other neighbouring countries have also introduced clearer frameworks for foreign property investment. The Thaiger reported that the attention will now focus on whether Thailand introduces new legal routes for foreign property ownership or long-term leases. Proposals frequently discussed include reviving elements of the 2022 ownership framework, strengthening lease protections and updating condominium regulations. The outcome could determine whether Thailand’s property policies ultimately align with its broader efforts to attract foreign investment and support economic modernisation. Pictures courtesy of The Thaiger Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now TheThaiger 22 June 2026 View full articleSun, 21 Jun 2026 20:47:21 +0000i still have 3, all goodSun, 21 Jun 2026 20:43:42 +0000AI post removed. @ikke1959 rule 39a. Posts should be original, on-topic, and written in your own voice. This is a discussion forum—not an AI content dump—so keep contributions natural and personal. AI tools can be used for reference or to support facts, but your writing should reflect your own understanding and perspective. This is especially important for opening posts, which should clearly come from a human point of view and invite genuine discussion.Sun, 21 Jun 2026 20:37:39 +0000