https://aseannow.com/rss/44-thailand-news.xml/National and regional news from all around Thailandenhttps://aseannow.com/thailand-news/phuket-land-nominee-crackdown-ordered-r2385/Deputy Interior Ministers Phonphir Suwannachee and Worasit Liangprasit have ordered a broad crackdown on illegal foreign land ownership and nominee arrangements in Phuket, with a focus on returning land to Thai ownership and bringing unregistered businesses into the legal system. Get today's headlines by email The policy direction was announced during a meeting with Interior Ministry agencies and related government departments at Phuket Provincial Hall on 18 June 2026. Senior officials, including the Phuket Governor, attended the session alongside district chiefs and government representatives. Phonphir said the immediate priority was “returning Thai land to Thai people” following widespread reports of foreign nationals illegally occupying and controlling land through nominee structures. He instructed Phuket authorities to coordinate with all relevant agencies to investigate cases thoroughly and take firm action where laws have been broken. He stressed that those found guilty must be held accountable, while individuals who have acted legally should be given the opportunity to explain their position. Referring to guidance from Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Phonphir said authorities would focus on behaviour rather than identities when enforcing the law. The deputy minister added that Phuket could not be closed off from international visitors and investors, but illegal practices must be addressed. He said the government does not want foreign nationals or their nominees gaining unfair advantages at the expense of Thai citizens or interfering with the work of public officials. Phonphir also highlighted concerns over entertainment venues operating outside legal regulations. He said authorities should work towards bringing such businesses into the formal system so that they can be properly regulated while preserving employment opportunities. He added that the Interior Ministry’s role includes modernising laws and encouraging operators who remain outside the legal framework to register with the government as quickly as possible. He described the next phase of work as a “reset” rather than a reopening of old disputes, with the aim of ensuring that all outstanding problems are addressed without omission. He said the objective was to improve Phuket’s image as a safe, attractive destination for residents and visitors. Worasit said the government was focused on determining what Phuket should look like in the future and implementing the prime minister’s policies more clearly, particularly regarding hotels and land ownership. He said authorities were working to reduce illegal land encroachment and regulatory violations because Phuket residents and the national economy were directly affected. Thaitabloid reported that he added that unnecessary obstacles to legal business operations should be removed while encouraging operators outside the system to become compliant. Worasit said both the public and private sectors were ready to support the reforms and that authorities would take action against anyone obstructing lawful processes. He also pledged protection for government officials acting in the national interest. Picture courtesy of Thaitabloid Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 19 June 2026Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:50:36 +0000Deputy Interior Ministers Phonphir Suwannachee and Worasit Liangprasit have ordered a broad crackdown on illegal foreign land ownership and nominee arrangements in Phuket, with a focus on returning land to Thai ownership and bringing unregistered businesses into the legal system. Get today's headlines by email The policy direction was announced during a meeting with Interior Ministry agencies and related government departments at Phuket Provincial Hall on 18 June 2026. Senior officials, including the Phuket Governor, attended the session alongside district chiefs and government representatives. Phonphir said the immediate priority was “returning Thai land to Thai people” following widespread reports of foreign nationals illegally occupying and controlling land through nominee structures. He instructed Phuket authorities to coordinate with all relevant agencies to investigate cases thoroughly and take firm action where laws have been broken. He stressed that those found guilty must be held accountable, while individuals who have acted legally should be given the opportunity to explain their position. Referring to guidance from Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Phonphir said authorities would focus on behaviour rather than identities when enforcing the law. The deputy minister added that Phuket could not be closed off from international visitors and investors, but illegal practices must be addressed. He said the government does not want foreign nationals or their nominees gaining unfair advantages at the expense of Thai citizens or interfering with the work of public officials. Phonphir also highlighted concerns over entertainment venues operating outside legal regulations. He said authorities should work towards bringing such businesses into the formal system so that they can be properly regulated while preserving employment opportunities. He added that the Interior Ministry’s role includes modernising laws and encouraging operators who remain outside the legal framework to register with the government as quickly as possible. He described the next phase of work as a “reset” rather than a reopening of old disputes, with the aim of ensuring that all outstanding problems are addressed without omission. He said the objective was to improve Phuket’s image as a safe, attractive destination for residents and visitors. Worasit said the government was focused on determining what Phuket should look like in the future and implementing the prime minister’s policies more clearly, particularly regarding hotels and land ownership. He said authorities were working to reduce illegal land encroachment and regulatory violations because Phuket residents and the national economy were directly affected. Thaitabloid reported that he added that unnecessary obstacles to legal business operations should be removed while encouraging operators outside the system to become compliant. Worasit said both the public and private sectors were ready to support the reforms and that authorities would take action against anyone obstructing lawful processes. He also pledged protection for government officials acting in the national interest. Picture courtesy of Thaitabloid Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 19 June 2026 View full articleThu, 18 Jun 2026 22:50:36 +0000The irony is that Obama had a better deal with Iran in 2013, than the actual 'deal' Trump and co. are announcing today, after scrapping the original one in his first term. After spending billions and billions of American's tax money on a total unnecessary war, what did he actually gain? Close to nothing. On the contrary, Iran has shown that they won't budge to any power or country in the world, and that they can hold the world hostage any time by closing the Hormuz strait. No regime change, the current regime is standing stronger than ever, and the Iranian people are more united than before, after Trump's countless threats and crazy tweets. And no, their military ain't obliterated.Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:48:43 +0000Nonreader.Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:48:28 +0000We're worse off now than during the gilded age. Income disparity is much greater, the distance between the haves and the have nots is at a proportion never seen before in the written history of the planet. The difference is, during the gilded age, the haves contributed much more than this current breed of oligarchs whose sole purpose is to amass wealth at the cost of global society. Some examples: 1. Large-Scale Philanthropy Modern philanthropy was largely invented during this era. Tycoons donated massive portions of their wealth to public causes: Libraries: Andrew Carnegie financed the construction of over 2,500 public libraries globally, helping democratize access to education. Education and Health: John D. Rockefeller funded the creation of the University of Chicago and the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research. 2. Infrastructure and Industrial Growth These businessmen laid the groundwork for America's modern economy by scaling up core industries: [1] Railroads: Tycoons like Cornelius Vanderbilt connected distant cities, allowing for a unified national market and efficient, cross-country travel. Steel: Andrew Carnegie and J.P. Morgan revolutionized steel production, providing the physical materials necessary for the nation's growing cities, railroads, and bridges. 3. Cultural and Civic Institutions The richest families funded premier arts, educational, and cultural institutions that remain foundational today: [1] The Arts: Financiers funded major museums and cultural centers, such as New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art. Universities: Wealthy donors heavily endowed many of the country's elite private universities (e.g., Stanford University, Vanderbilt University).Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:46:00 +0000Ever seen Australian Rules Football? IMHO this is the best form of any game called football.Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:45:03 +0000Great soundtrack. Where is it from 🤔 https___t.co_CARe4Da9v2.mp4Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:36:10 +0000if you don't want to buy something, just walk away...don't even spend time to talk with such people... Nobody can force you to buy.Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:34:52 +0000Only totally brainwashed cult members could buy the big lie that this was a win for Trump and that the entire war of choice wasn't a massive mistake.Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:31:40 +0000Spoken like a true sexpat. Change username to Beta84 Next!Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:30:40 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/pattaya-tourists-report-herbal-scam-by-foreign-sellers-r2384/Two Australian tourists have reported being deceived into purchasing herbal coffee products at an inflated price in Pattaya, prompting a police investigation and renewed concerns over alleged scams targeting visitors. Get today's headlines by email At 6.10pm on 18 June 2026, Pattaya City Police received a report that two foreign tourists had been persuaded to buy herbal products and slimming coffee at excessive prices. Officers and reporters travelled to a convenience store on Pattaya Second Road to investigate. The tourists were identified as Henry Reddy, 56, and Sam Alsuhery, 29, both from Australia. They said two foreign men wearing red and black shirts approached them and struck up a conversation before leading them to a herbal products shop located inside a market on Pattaya Second Road. According to the tourists, the sellers initially offered the products for 4,600 baht before gradually increasing the price to 9,600 baht. They were ultimately charged a total of 14,600 baht for two bags of herbal coffee, which the sellers claimed could be used as an effective weight-loss product. After becoming suspicious, the pair consulted their Thai driver, who warned them they may have fallen victim to a herbal product scam. They then contacted police and requested an investigation. When officers and reporters arrived at the shop, they found products displayed inside but no staff or sellers present. The individuals involved had apparently left the area before authorities arrived. Nopparat, 49, the taxi driver and friend of the victims, reported he had been showing the tourists condominiums in Pattaya and said the men had originally wanted to buy medicine for stomach pain and were directed to a convenience store. He later noticed they had been approached by strangers and taken elsewhere. He said he became concerned after learning the tourists did not know the individuals who approached them. Nopparat added that he had previously seen news reports and social media videos describing similar herbal product scams. Picture courtesy of แจ็ค โพธิ์แดง Police advised the tourists to file an official complaint at Pattaya City Police Station so the case could be recorded and used to help identify and prosecute those responsible. Although the tourists considered the financial loss relatively minor, officers stressed that filing a report was important for broader investigations. The pair later met detectives and provided photographs and video footage of the alleged perpetrators as evidence. They told reporters they were less concerned about recovering the money than preventing other tourists from becoming victims. Investigators are expected to review the evidence supplied by the tourists and continue efforts to identify those involved. The case adds to previous reports alleging that groups of Pakistani nationals have been selling herbal products and making exaggerated health claims to tourists in Pattaya, with complaints reportedly occurring on a regular basis. Related story Indian-community-leader-raises-Pattaya-scam-alert AQMmGuMWSEOPq0f9vFqVEEMLwGkxgobLkYMAjw7o7GqWm27_LvZyAJNKL8e1XQkTWpsGaMm1Ps2mAu2HplXMEsj_xSK-DprKafUo4PPRZQ.mp4 Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now แจ็ค โพธิ์แดง 19 June 2026Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:30:28 +0000Two Australian tourists have reported being deceived into purchasing herbal coffee products at an inflated price in Pattaya, prompting a police investigation and renewed concerns over alleged scams targeting visitors. Get today's headlines by email At 6.10pm on 18 June 2026, Pattaya City Police received a report that two foreign tourists had been persuaded to buy herbal products and slimming coffee at excessive prices. Officers and reporters travelled to a convenience store on Pattaya Second Road to investigate. The tourists were identified as Henry Reddy, 56, and Sam Alsuhery, 29, both from Australia. They said two foreign men wearing red and black shirts approached them and struck up a conversation before leading them to a herbal products shop located inside a market on Pattaya Second Road. According to the tourists, the sellers initially offered the products for 4,600 baht before gradually increasing the price to 9,600 baht. They were ultimately charged a total of 14,600 baht for two bags of herbal coffee, which the sellers claimed could be used as an effective weight-loss product. After becoming suspicious, the pair consulted their Thai driver, who warned them they may have fallen victim to a herbal product scam. They then contacted police and requested an investigation. When officers and reporters arrived at the shop, they found products displayed inside but no staff or sellers present. The individuals involved had apparently left the area before authorities arrived. Nopparat, 49, the taxi driver and friend of the victims, reported he had been showing the tourists condominiums in Pattaya and said the men had originally wanted to buy medicine for stomach pain and were directed to a convenience store. He later noticed they had been approached by strangers and taken elsewhere. He said he became concerned after learning the tourists did not know the individuals who approached them. Nopparat added that he had previously seen news reports and social media videos describing similar herbal product scams. Picture courtesy of แจ็ค โพธิ์แดง Police advised the tourists to file an official complaint at Pattaya City Police Station so the case could be recorded and used to help identify and prosecute those responsible. Although the tourists considered the financial loss relatively minor, officers stressed that filing a report was important for broader investigations. The pair later met detectives and provided photographs and video footage of the alleged perpetrators as evidence. They told reporters they were less concerned about recovering the money than preventing other tourists from becoming victims. Investigators are expected to review the evidence supplied by the tourists and continue efforts to identify those involved. The case adds to previous reports alleging that groups of Pakistani nationals have been selling herbal products and making exaggerated health claims to tourists in Pattaya, with complaints reportedly occurring on a regular basis. Related story Indian-community-leader-raises-Pattaya-scam-alert AQMmGuMWSEOPq0f9vFqVEEMLwGkxgobLkYMAjw7o7GqWm27_LvZyAJNKL8e1XQkTWpsGaMm1Ps2mAu2HplXMEsj_xSK-DprKafUo4PPRZQ.mp4 Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now แจ็ค โพธิ์แดง 19 June 2026 View full articleThu, 18 Jun 2026 22:30:28 +0000This is exactly like something Trump would have written himself.. What the heck is wrong with you MAGA folks? All you can do is spew up garbage and hate like this. Are you all 12 years old? I would have been utterly ashamed of myself. You show all signs of belonging to a cult. Just sayin'.Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:29:34 +0000Yes one year for just showing up for Americans. However, after that, you need to leave for three months before a reset. So not as good as Georgia for many nationalities giving a full year and reset after a visa run. Albania does have a retirement visa which can lead to permanent residence.Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:27:46 +0000nice copy and pasteThu, 18 Jun 2026 22:25:38 +0000As part of the refurbishment, a blue liner was installed, to give the Reflecting Pool that same look as those swimming pools in Florida. Residual algae in pipes was blamed for the subsequent bloom. A bleach was added, which has now affected the liner.Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:23:22 +0000early morning OOPSThu, 18 Jun 2026 22:20:08 +0000I'll agree never say never. Things like malice, first amendment press freedoms, and defamation involving a public figure are all judgment calls in a motion to dismiss. Jurisdiction under Florida defamation law is pretty much yes or no. And to keep it simple: Previous federal court ruling says that the Panorama doc wasn't available in Florida for defamation purposes unless BBC itself made it available in Florida.Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:19:47 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/bus-driver-admits-drinking-before-phetchit-crash-r2383/A long-distance bus overturned on Highway 117 in Phichit province during the early hours of 18 June 2026, leaving 25 passengers with injuries. The air-conditioned first-class bus, registered in Sukhothai, was travelling from Sukhothai to Bangkok’s Mo Chit Bus Terminal when it overturned onto its side near the Phichit Industrial Estate at kilometre marker 97 in Nong Lum subdistrict, Wachirabarami district. Get today's headlines by email Police from Pluak Sung Highway Police Station received reports of the crash shortly after midnight. Officers, investigators from Wachirabarami Police Station and rescue workers attended the scene, where passengers were found trapped inside the vehicle. Emergency responders worked to free those affected and transported the injured to nearby hospitals. Authorities confirmed that a total of 25 passengers suffered injuries ranging from minor to moderate severity. Investigators identified the driver as 52-year-old Anucha. According to police, he had been driving the bus on its scheduled route from Sukhothai to Bangkok when the crash occurred. Picture courtesy of Komchadluek Lt. Col. Phattharaphon Thapwat, deputy investigating officer at Wachirabarami Police Station, said the driver underwent an alcohol test after the incident. The test recorded a blood alcohol level over the legal limit for a commercial driver. The driver admitted he had consumed a small amount of alcohol before the journey. He told police that he became drowsy while driving and briefly fell asleep at the wheel. According to his statement, he regained awareness only after losing control of the vehicle. The bus then left the carriageway, entered the central median and overturned onto its side, resulting in the injuries. Following the crash, local district authorities arranged hotel accommodation for stranded passengers overnight while replacement transport was organised. A substitute bus provided by the operating company collected all remaining passengers on the morning of 18 June and continued the journey to Bangkok. Komchadluek reported that police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities also confirmed that three injured passengers remained in hospital receiving treatment following the incident. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Komchadluek 19 June 2026Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:16:02 +0000A long-distance bus overturned on Highway 117 in Phichit province during the early hours of 18 June 2026, leaving 25 passengers with injuries. The air-conditioned first-class bus, registered in Sukhothai, was travelling from Sukhothai to Bangkok’s Mo Chit Bus Terminal when it overturned onto its side near the Phichit Industrial Estate at kilometre marker 97 in Nong Lum subdistrict, Wachirabarami district. Get today's headlines by email Police from Pluak Sung Highway Police Station received reports of the crash shortly after midnight. Officers, investigators from Wachirabarami Police Station and rescue workers attended the scene, where passengers were found trapped inside the vehicle. Emergency responders worked to free those affected and transported the injured to nearby hospitals. Authorities confirmed that a total of 25 passengers suffered injuries ranging from minor to moderate severity. Investigators identified the driver as 52-year-old Anucha. According to police, he had been driving the bus on its scheduled route from Sukhothai to Bangkok when the crash occurred. Picture courtesy of Komchadluek Lt. Col. Phattharaphon Thapwat, deputy investigating officer at Wachirabarami Police Station, said the driver underwent an alcohol test after the incident. The test recorded a blood alcohol level over the legal limit for a commercial driver. The driver admitted he had consumed a small amount of alcohol before the journey. He told police that he became drowsy while driving and briefly fell asleep at the wheel. According to his statement, he regained awareness only after losing control of the vehicle. The bus then left the carriageway, entered the central median and overturned onto its side, resulting in the injuries. Following the crash, local district authorities arranged hotel accommodation for stranded passengers overnight while replacement transport was organised. A substitute bus provided by the operating company collected all remaining passengers on the morning of 18 June and continued the journey to Bangkok. Komchadluek reported that police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities also confirmed that three injured passengers remained in hospital receiving treatment following the incident. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Komchadluek 19 June 2026 View full articleThu, 18 Jun 2026 22:16:02 +0000Scores Fall Ill at Air Force Base After Hegseth Makes Flu Vaccine Optional The defense secretary described the vaccine requirement, which he lifted in April, as an “absurd, overreaching” mandate. NYTimes via https://archive.ph/NeuwP#selection-809.0-809.13 June 18, 2026 A major flu outbreak has sickened nearly 160 troops at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas less than two months after Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that U.S. troops would no longer be required to be vaccinated for the flu, defense officials said. The outbreak at the base in San Antonio raced through an Air Force Basic Military Training wing, where new recruits sleep on bunk beds in open bays and share meals at large communal tables. “Under the disastrous Biden administration, this Pentagon waged an unrelenting war on our warriors on many fronts, including when it came to denying them simple medical autonomy and the freedom to express their religious convictions,” he said in a video announcing his decision in April. “The reason it was mandatory was to enhance readiness,” Senator Roger Wicker of Mississippi, the chairman of the Armed Services Committee, said shortly after the new policy was announced.Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:12:16 +0000That is only partially correct. You have to be physically in the country or use VPN. Of course, VPN is against Google terms of service, so it does carry a risk.Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:10:21 +0000Foreigners are creatures of habit, thus having a solid routine so easily avoidable 😁Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:06:16 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/customs-tightens-cannabis-export-penalties-in-thailand-r2382/Thailand’s Customs Department has introduced tougher legal measures against the illegal export of cannabis and the false declaration of goods’ country of origin, with immediate effect, in a move aimed at protecting the country’s reputation and strengthening confidence in Thai trade. Get today's headlines by email On 18 June 2026, Customs Director-General Phanthong Loykulnunt said the department had stepped up enforcement in line with government policy under Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Dr Ekniti Nitithanprapas. The measures focus on preventing illegal imports and exports, particularly cannabis smuggling and origin fraud involving exported goods. During fiscal year 2026, from October 2025 to May 2026, customs authorities seized illegal cannabis exports in 2,983 cases. The total weight seized was 35,011 kilograms, with an estimated value exceeding 445 million baht. Officials said the number of cases has continued to rise. Previously, enforcement action in many cannabis export cases was limited to confiscating the seized goods. Customs officials said some offenders appeared willing to accept that risk because cannabis could command significantly higher prices in destination countries. To increase deterrence, the department has introduced a new penalty structure. Offenders will now face fines of 30,000 baht per kilogram of cannabis seized, in addition to forfeiture of the goods to the state. The revised penalties took effect on 17 June 2026. Officials said the illegal export of cannabis damages Thailand’s image because many countries continue to classify cannabis as an illegal narcotic and impose severe penalties for related offences. The stricter sanctions are intended to reduce incentives for smuggling and prevent Thailand from being used as a collection point or transit route for cannabis destined for overseas markets. The Customs Department has also reported that it has strengthened penalties for exporters of all goods, who falsely declare the origin of goods or claim products were made in Thailand when they were not. Under the new rules, offenders face a fine of 500,000 baht and suspension of all trade privileges. Authorities warned that origin fraud could seriously undermine Thailand’s credibility in international trade and lead to retaliatory trade measures or increased scrutiny of Thai exports by trading partners. The issue has become more significant as countries intensify checks on product origin amid global trade tensions, tariffs and other trade barriers. SiamRath reported that Phanthong said the revised penalties demonstrate the department’s commitment to enforcing customs laws, maintaining international trade standards, protecting legitimate businesses, supporting exports and strengthening confidence in Thailand’s trading system and international reputation. Picture courtesy of SiamRath Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now SiamRath 19 June 2026Thu, 18 Jun 2026 22:04:45 +0000Thailand’s Customs Department has introduced tougher legal measures against the illegal export of cannabis and the false declaration of goods’ country of origin, with immediate effect, in a move aimed at protecting the country’s reputation and strengthening confidence in Thai trade. Get today's headlines by email On 18 June 2026, Customs Director-General Phanthong Loykulnunt said the department had stepped up enforcement in line with government policy under Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Dr Ekniti Nitithanprapas. The measures focus on preventing illegal imports and exports, particularly cannabis smuggling and origin fraud involving exported goods. During fiscal year 2026, from October 2025 to May 2026, customs authorities seized illegal cannabis exports in 2,983 cases. The total weight seized was 35,011 kilograms, with an estimated value exceeding 445 million baht. Officials said the number of cases has continued to rise. Previously, enforcement action in many cannabis export cases was limited to confiscating the seized goods. Customs officials said some offenders appeared willing to accept that risk because cannabis could command significantly higher prices in destination countries. To increase deterrence, the department has introduced a new penalty structure. Offenders will now face fines of 30,000 baht per kilogram of cannabis seized, in addition to forfeiture of the goods to the state. The revised penalties took effect on 17 June 2026. Officials said the illegal export of cannabis damages Thailand’s image because many countries continue to classify cannabis as an illegal narcotic and impose severe penalties for related offences. The stricter sanctions are intended to reduce incentives for smuggling and prevent Thailand from being used as a collection point or transit route for cannabis destined for overseas markets. The Customs Department has also reported that it has strengthened penalties for exporters of all goods, who falsely declare the origin of goods or claim products were made in Thailand when they were not. Under the new rules, offenders face a fine of 500,000 baht and suspension of all trade privileges. Authorities warned that origin fraud could seriously undermine Thailand’s credibility in international trade and lead to retaliatory trade measures or increased scrutiny of Thai exports by trading partners. The issue has become more significant as countries intensify checks on product origin amid global trade tensions, tariffs and other trade barriers. SiamRath reported that Phanthong said the revised penalties demonstrate the department’s commitment to enforcing customs laws, maintaining international trade standards, protecting legitimate businesses, supporting exports and strengthening confidence in Thailand’s trading system and international reputation. Picture courtesy of SiamRath Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now SiamRath 19 June 2026 View full articleThu, 18 Jun 2026 22:04:45 +0000