https://aseannow.com/rss/44-thailand-news.xml/National and regional news from all around ThailandenMy cleaner just told me a falang just put his house in her name, he no longer wanted to hold it in company name. Panic has officially broken out 😱Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:56:54 +0000Nah, he was elected because some thought he would help the economy in America.Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:56:08 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/kalasin-military-officer-shoots-superior-at-city-hall-r2369/A military officer attached to the Mueang Kalasin District Military Office shot and killed his superior inside the Kalasin Provincial Hall on 17 June 2026, causing panic among civil servants, government employees and members of the public in the building. Get today's headlines by email The shooting occurred at about 9.20am on the fourth floor of the provincial hall, where the Kalasin Provincial Military Office is located. Witnesses reported hearing several gunshots, prompting people inside the building to flee for safety. Police from Mueang Kalasin Police Station, together with Kalasin Governor Suwan Heamthanaphet, Deputy Governor Phadungsak Im-oeb, Pol Maj Gen Songphon Boribanprasit, commander of Kalasin Provincial Police, and provincial permanent secretary Santi Jattuphan, attended the scene with rescue personnel. Officers found the body of Col Korwikanon, the 59-year-old Kalasin provincial military officer, inside his office. Initial examinations showed he had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Picture courtesy of ThaiRath The suspect was identified as Lt Chinkorn, 59, an officer from the Mueang Kalasin District Military Office. He remained at the scene and surrendered to police, who took him into custody along with the firearm allegedly used in the shooting. Preliminary investigations indicate the shooting stemmed from a dispute over an official transfer order. Lt Chinkorn was reportedly dissatisfied with an order transferring him to the Kamalasai District Military Office and had gone to meet Col Korwikanon to discuss the decision. According to investigators, the discussion escalated into a heated argument before Lt Chinkorn allegedly drew the firearm he was carrying and shot his superior. Forensic officers are collecting physical evidence and examining witness accounts to complete the case file. The Kalasin governor instructed authorities to proceed with the investigation in accordance with the law and ordered support measures for staff affected by the incident. Officials said the shooting had caused significant distress among personnel working in the provincial hall. ThaiRath reported that police will continue questioning the suspect to establish the full motive behind the attack before proceeding with criminal charges under the relevant legal process. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 18 June 2026Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:54:28 +0000A military officer attached to the Mueang Kalasin District Military Office shot and killed his superior inside the Kalasin Provincial Hall on 17 June 2026, causing panic among civil servants, government employees and members of the public in the building. Get today's headlines by email The shooting occurred at about 9.20am on the fourth floor of the provincial hall, where the Kalasin Provincial Military Office is located. Witnesses reported hearing several gunshots, prompting people inside the building to flee for safety. Police from Mueang Kalasin Police Station, together with Kalasin Governor Suwan Heamthanaphet, Deputy Governor Phadungsak Im-oeb, Pol Maj Gen Songphon Boribanprasit, commander of Kalasin Provincial Police, and provincial permanent secretary Santi Jattuphan, attended the scene with rescue personnel. Officers found the body of Col Korwikanon, the 59-year-old Kalasin provincial military officer, inside his office. Initial examinations showed he had sustained multiple gunshot wounds. Picture courtesy of ThaiRath The suspect was identified as Lt Chinkorn, 59, an officer from the Mueang Kalasin District Military Office. He remained at the scene and surrendered to police, who took him into custody along with the firearm allegedly used in the shooting. Preliminary investigations indicate the shooting stemmed from a dispute over an official transfer order. Lt Chinkorn was reportedly dissatisfied with an order transferring him to the Kamalasai District Military Office and had gone to meet Col Korwikanon to discuss the decision. According to investigators, the discussion escalated into a heated argument before Lt Chinkorn allegedly drew the firearm he was carrying and shot his superior. Forensic officers are collecting physical evidence and examining witness accounts to complete the case file. The Kalasin governor instructed authorities to proceed with the investigation in accordance with the law and ordered support measures for staff affected by the incident. Officials said the shooting had caused significant distress among personnel working in the provincial hall. ThaiRath reported that police will continue questioning the suspect to establish the full motive behind the attack before proceeding with criminal charges under the relevant legal process. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 18 June 2026 View full articleWed, 17 Jun 2026 21:54:28 +0000Prove it's wrong. I don't need to prove anything here, as it's our belief. Maybe you're a figment of our imagination.Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:54:26 +0000Let us know when it clears up and whyWed, 17 Jun 2026 21:53:37 +0000Nothing actually. Some of us already know.Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:52:28 +0000I agree that cars in general have become dull and generic… but EVs have exacerbated this trend. I mean come on, who in their right mind willingly drives a car called Dolphin… 😂 (to the Dolphin drivers, just joshing).Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:50:39 +0000You mean those who entered the US illegally?Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:49:38 +0000Usually no, humanitarian is, but bombs are sometimes warranted.Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:48:10 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/hong-kong-woman-loses-thb40m-to-thai-fortune-teller-scam-r2368/A 47-year-old Thai-Hong Kong woman has sought help from the Saimai Survive page after claiming she lost more than THB40 million to a well-known fortune teller over several years. The woman said she was persuaded to pay for rituals, curse removals and spiritual ceremonies, leaving her heavily indebted and at one stage contemplating suicide. Get today's headlines by email The case was presented on 17 June 2026 at the Saimai Survive coordination centre in Bangkok’s Sai Mai district. The woman, identified only as Ms Ho, said she worked for a company in Hong Kong and initially contacted the fortune teller through a Facebook page while experiencing problems in her relationship. According to Ms Ho, the fortune teller accurately predicted several events in her life, including the later death of a relative, which led her to trust the advice completely. Communication then moved to the Line messaging application, where she was encouraged to take part in what was described as white magic rituals. Ms Ho said she was sent “nam man phrai”, or ghost oil, and instructed to perform ceremonies intended to improve her fortunes and reunite her with her partner. After using the oil, she claimed to have recurring dreams involving spirits, which further strengthened her belief in the fortune teller’s powers. The requests for money later escalated into a series of ceremonies allegedly required to remove bad karma, improve her destiny and correct spiritual wrongdoing. She said she was repeatedly warned that failure to complete the rituals could result in declining health, financial ruin or even death. Payments ranged from THB70,000 for ritual offerings to several hundred thousand baht, with some ceremonies costing more than THB1 million. Over the years, Ms Ho used her savings, retirement funds, overseas bank loans and money borrowed from relatives and friends to make payments. She estimated her personal funds amounted to only THB2-3 million, with the remainder coming from loans and borrowed money. She also alleged that the fortune teller advised her to borrow money from others and, in some cases, deceive people temporarily in order to obtain funds for further payments. The financial pressure reportedly caused severe stress and suicidal thoughts. Ms Ho said she only began to realise she may have been deceived after renewing her Thai identity card late last year, prompting her to end contact with the fortune teller and seek assistance from authorities. She later filed a complaint at Prawet Police Station but claimed that a person who directed her to police demanded nearly THB130,000 in fees for documents, case follow-up and coordination services. Ms Ho said she never met the person allegedly conducting the rituals and transferred money into five separate bank accounts described as ceremonial accounts before funds were allegedly passed on to others involved. Amarin reported that Saimai Survive founder Ekkapop Luangprasert called on authorities to examine bank accounts, financial transactions and evidence of all transfers to determine whether offences including fraud or public deception had occurred. He also urged investigators to examine allegations that an individual claiming to be a police officer demanded payment for assistance with the case. Picture courtesy of Amarin Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 18 June 2026Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:47:00 +0000A 47-year-old Thai-Hong Kong woman has sought help from the Saimai Survive page after claiming she lost more than THB40 million to a well-known fortune teller over several years. The woman said she was persuaded to pay for rituals, curse removals and spiritual ceremonies, leaving her heavily indebted and at one stage contemplating suicide. Get today's headlines by email The case was presented on 17 June 2026 at the Saimai Survive coordination centre in Bangkok’s Sai Mai district. The woman, identified only as Ms Ho, said she worked for a company in Hong Kong and initially contacted the fortune teller through a Facebook page while experiencing problems in her relationship. According to Ms Ho, the fortune teller accurately predicted several events in her life, including the later death of a relative, which led her to trust the advice completely. Communication then moved to the Line messaging application, where she was encouraged to take part in what was described as white magic rituals. Ms Ho said she was sent “nam man phrai”, or ghost oil, and instructed to perform ceremonies intended to improve her fortunes and reunite her with her partner. After using the oil, she claimed to have recurring dreams involving spirits, which further strengthened her belief in the fortune teller’s powers. The requests for money later escalated into a series of ceremonies allegedly required to remove bad karma, improve her destiny and correct spiritual wrongdoing. She said she was repeatedly warned that failure to complete the rituals could result in declining health, financial ruin or even death. Payments ranged from THB70,000 for ritual offerings to several hundred thousand baht, with some ceremonies costing more than THB1 million. Over the years, Ms Ho used her savings, retirement funds, overseas bank loans and money borrowed from relatives and friends to make payments. She estimated her personal funds amounted to only THB2-3 million, with the remainder coming from loans and borrowed money. She also alleged that the fortune teller advised her to borrow money from others and, in some cases, deceive people temporarily in order to obtain funds for further payments. The financial pressure reportedly caused severe stress and suicidal thoughts. Ms Ho said she only began to realise she may have been deceived after renewing her Thai identity card late last year, prompting her to end contact with the fortune teller and seek assistance from authorities. She later filed a complaint at Prawet Police Station but claimed that a person who directed her to police demanded nearly THB130,000 in fees for documents, case follow-up and coordination services. Ms Ho said she never met the person allegedly conducting the rituals and transferred money into five separate bank accounts described as ceremonial accounts before funds were allegedly passed on to others involved. Amarin reported that Saimai Survive founder Ekkapop Luangprasert called on authorities to examine bank accounts, financial transactions and evidence of all transfers to determine whether offences including fraud or public deception had occurred. He also urged investigators to examine allegations that an individual claiming to be a police officer demanded payment for assistance with the case. Picture courtesy of Amarin Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 18 June 2026 View full articleWed, 17 Jun 2026 21:47:00 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/yala-woman-found-dead-at-thai-cambodian-border-r2367/A 28-year-old woman from Yala province was found dead in a canal along the Thai-Cambodian border after reportedly attempting to escape forced labour in Cambodia. Police said the woman, identified only as Faseeyah, died while trying to cross from Poipet back into Thailand near the Rong Kluea Market border crossing in Sa Kaeo province. Get today's headlines by email Authorities believe Faseeyah had been deceived and sold into illegal labour in Cambodia. She was reportedly among a group attempting to cross the border via Phrom Hod Canal, a narrow but deep waterway connected to areas near the market. Investigators believe she became separated from the others and, as she could not swim, drowned while trying to cross. Thai rangers patrolling the border were alerted and later discovered her body floating in the canal. Officials estimated the body had been in the water for at least three days before rescue workers recovered it and sent it for a post-mortem examination. Faseeyah’s mother, Che Bungo Yusoh, 52, said she had not seen her daughter for six years. Near the end of May, her daughter contacted the family through a messaging application, transferred 4,000 baht to help with household expenses and asked her mother to care for her two sons. At the time, the family did not suspect anything was wrong. Mrs Che Bungo said she does not believe her daughter simply drowned, noting that the mobile phone Faseeyah regularly used was never recovered. Only a newly purchased handset, reportedly intended as a gift for her sons, was found. She also said friends who had previously been in contact with Faseeyah blocked family members and deleted their connections, leaving them unable to obtain further information. According to her mother, Faseeyah had previously worked at a Thai restaurant in Malaysia before marrying a man from Narathiwat. The couple had a son but later divorced. She subsequently remarried a man from Pattani, but the relationship ended during her pregnancy. After giving birth to her second son, she left home around 45 days later to seek work in Bangkok and never returned. The family only learned that she had been working in Cambodia around the time of the Thai-Cambodian border conflict in July last year. They heard her voice for the first time in years in May 2026 and were informed of her death by a foundation. The Bangkokpost reported that authorities are continuing post-mortem procedures as the family prepares to hold a memorial ceremony seven days after her death. Both of Faseeyah’s sons are now being raised by their grandmother. Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Bangkokpost 18 June 2026Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:34:25 +0000A 28-year-old woman from Yala province was found dead in a canal along the Thai-Cambodian border after reportedly attempting to escape forced labour in Cambodia. Police said the woman, identified only as Faseeyah, died while trying to cross from Poipet back into Thailand near the Rong Kluea Market border crossing in Sa Kaeo province. Get today's headlines by email Authorities believe Faseeyah had been deceived and sold into illegal labour in Cambodia. She was reportedly among a group attempting to cross the border via Phrom Hod Canal, a narrow but deep waterway connected to areas near the market. Investigators believe she became separated from the others and, as she could not swim, drowned while trying to cross. Thai rangers patrolling the border were alerted and later discovered her body floating in the canal. Officials estimated the body had been in the water for at least three days before rescue workers recovered it and sent it for a post-mortem examination. Faseeyah’s mother, Che Bungo Yusoh, 52, said she had not seen her daughter for six years. Near the end of May, her daughter contacted the family through a messaging application, transferred 4,000 baht to help with household expenses and asked her mother to care for her two sons. At the time, the family did not suspect anything was wrong. Mrs Che Bungo said she does not believe her daughter simply drowned, noting that the mobile phone Faseeyah regularly used was never recovered. Only a newly purchased handset, reportedly intended as a gift for her sons, was found. She also said friends who had previously been in contact with Faseeyah blocked family members and deleted their connections, leaving them unable to obtain further information. According to her mother, Faseeyah had previously worked at a Thai restaurant in Malaysia before marrying a man from Narathiwat. The couple had a son but later divorced. She subsequently remarried a man from Pattani, but the relationship ended during her pregnancy. After giving birth to her second son, she left home around 45 days later to seek work in Bangkok and never returned. The family only learned that she had been working in Cambodia around the time of the Thai-Cambodian border conflict in July last year. They heard her voice for the first time in years in May 2026 and were informed of her death by a foundation. The Bangkokpost reported that authorities are continuing post-mortem procedures as the family prepares to hold a memorial ceremony seven days after her death. Both of Faseeyah’s sons are now being raised by their grandmother. Picture courtesy of Bangkok Post Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Bangkokpost 18 June 2026 View full articleWed, 17 Jun 2026 21:34:25 +0000Australia's federal police have launched an investigation into allegations that Israeli forces raped, tortured and abused activists detained after attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza by sea. The inquiry was announced after four female activists from the Global Sumud flotilla met Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and senior government officials, including police representatives, in Canberra on Monday. Detentions After Aid MissionThe activists were among hundreds of people detained by Israeli forces on 18 May when a Gaza-bound humanitarian flotilla was intercepted. Eleven Australians were among those taken into custody during the operation. Following the meeting with officials, activist Juliet Lamont said the government had committed to pursuing an independent investigation into allegations including kidnapping, abuse, rape and torture. "They have committed to an independent investigation into our allegations of kidnapping, abuse, rape, torture," Lamont told reporters. Police Confirm InquiriesThe Australian Federal Police (AFP) later confirmed it had begun examining the claims. In a statement, the AFP said it had "begun inquiries into allegations made by a representative of the group" and would handle the matter using a victim-centred, trauma-informed approach. The force said further updates would be provided at an appropriate time. A spokesperson for Wong's office said the meeting gave the minister and officials an opportunity to hear directly from the activists about their experiences during detention. Calls for Independent InvestigationAccording to the spokesperson, Wong has raised the allegations with Israel on several occasions and expects an independent and transparent investigation into the claims. The Australian government also criticised the conduct of Israeli authorities and referred to the actions of Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who has previously been sanctioned by Australia. Ben-Gvir drew widespread criticism after posting a video showing detained activists kneeling with their hands tied behind their backs while he taunted them. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu later said the minister's conduct was not in line with Israel's values and norms. Israel Rejects AllegationsThe Israeli embassy in Australia dismissed the accusations, saying there was no credible evidence to support claims of physical or sexual assault. In comments reported by the ABC, the embassy said no formal complaints had been submitted and described the activists as "professional provocateurs". The embassy also said the allegations had already been proven false. The activists, however, maintain that serious abuses occurred during their detention and continue to seek an independent investigation into the incident. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 18 June 2026 View full articleWed, 17 Jun 2026 21:30:46 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/anutin-promotes-thailand-as-russias-asean-gateway-r2366/Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul highlighted Thailand’s role as a gateway connecting Russia with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) during the Special ASEAN-Russia Summit and the ASEAN-Russia Business Forum in Kazan, Russia, on 17 June 2026. Speaking alongside Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Anutin presented Thailand as a key hub for economic, trade and investment links between Russia and the ASEAN region. Get today's headlines by email According to Prime Minister’s Office spokesperson Rachada Thanadirek, Anutin encouraged Russian businesses to use Thailand as a base for expansion into the ASEAN market, which has a population of more than 700 million people. He said Thailand is well positioned to support greater regional connectivity and economic cooperation. Anutin noted that 2026 marks the 35th anniversary of ASEAN-Russia relations, a partnership that has continued to develop amid rapid changes in the global economy. He said Thailand is pursuing economic restructuring and regulatory reforms to create new opportunities, while the FastPass Initiative helped attract the country’s highest level of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in a decade last year. The Prime Minister outlined three priority areas for future Thailand-Russia cooperation. The first was connectivity, with Thailand offering infrastructure, logistics systems, deep-sea ports, aviation networks and digital links capable of serving as a strategic gateway to ASEAN markets. He added that Thailand will continue investing in digital infrastructure, innovation ecosystems and smart industries, while supporting the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement. Pictures courtesy of TNR The second area was trade and investment. Anutin stressed the importance of maintaining the multilateral trading system and identified market diversification, food security and energy security as important areas for collaboration. He said Russia’s position as one of the world’s largest natural gas producers and Thailand’s role as a major food producer create opportunities for stronger economic ties. He also welcomed growing Russian investment interest in Thailand, particularly in digital technology, agriculture, tourism and the creative economy. The third area focused on people-to-people exchanges. Anutin said Thailand welcomes around two million Russian tourists each year and is ready to expand cooperation in health and medical tourism. He also called for greater collaboration in culture and the creative economy to strengthen ties between the two countries. The ThaiNewsRoom reported that the speech comes as Thailand and Russia prepare to mark the 130th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year. Anutin said the milestone presents an opportunity to deepen economic cooperation and strengthen links between Russia, Thailand and ASEAN member states. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thai newsroom 18 June 2026Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:26:36 +0000Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul highlighted Thailand’s role as a gateway connecting Russia with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) during the Special ASEAN-Russia Summit and the ASEAN-Russia Business Forum in Kazan, Russia, on 17 June 2026. Speaking alongside Vietnamese Prime Minister Le Minh Hung and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Anutin presented Thailand as a key hub for economic, trade and investment links between Russia and the ASEAN region. Get today's headlines by email According to Prime Minister’s Office spokesperson Rachada Thanadirek, Anutin encouraged Russian businesses to use Thailand as a base for expansion into the ASEAN market, which has a population of more than 700 million people. He said Thailand is well positioned to support greater regional connectivity and economic cooperation. Anutin noted that 2026 marks the 35th anniversary of ASEAN-Russia relations, a partnership that has continued to develop amid rapid changes in the global economy. He said Thailand is pursuing economic restructuring and regulatory reforms to create new opportunities, while the FastPass Initiative helped attract the country’s highest level of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in a decade last year. The Prime Minister outlined three priority areas for future Thailand-Russia cooperation. The first was connectivity, with Thailand offering infrastructure, logistics systems, deep-sea ports, aviation networks and digital links capable of serving as a strategic gateway to ASEAN markets. He added that Thailand will continue investing in digital infrastructure, innovation ecosystems and smart industries, while supporting the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement. Pictures courtesy of TNR The second area was trade and investment. Anutin stressed the importance of maintaining the multilateral trading system and identified market diversification, food security and energy security as important areas for collaboration. He said Russia’s position as one of the world’s largest natural gas producers and Thailand’s role as a major food producer create opportunities for stronger economic ties. He also welcomed growing Russian investment interest in Thailand, particularly in digital technology, agriculture, tourism and the creative economy. The third area focused on people-to-people exchanges. Anutin said Thailand welcomes around two million Russian tourists each year and is ready to expand cooperation in health and medical tourism. He also called for greater collaboration in culture and the creative economy to strengthen ties between the two countries. The ThaiNewsRoom reported that the speech comes as Thailand and Russia prepare to mark the 130th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year. Anutin said the milestone presents an opportunity to deepen economic cooperation and strengthen links between Russia, Thailand and ASEAN member states. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thai newsroom 18 June 2026 View full articleWed, 17 Jun 2026 21:26:36 +0000Just watched GOP Sen. Moreno turn a confirmation hearing into a masterclass on vetting. He asked the nominees, "Do any of you have a Nazi tattoo"? followed by questions about , black people not tipping, fantasizing about raping home invaders, and masterbating in public bathrooms. Every one of them said no, obviously Moreno pointed out that stuff like that would’ve ended Platner’s Senate run in Maine if he were a GOP member. But here we are the Dem's are still backing a guy who sported a Totenkopf SS death’s head tattoo for years.Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:21:38 +0000The BBC has announced plans to cut 550 jobs across its news, nations, television and radio operations as part of a wider programme aimed at saving £500 million over the next two years. Get today's headlines by email The measures, outlined to staff on Wednesday, mark the first phase of a cost-cutting strategy that is expected to eliminate between 1,800 and 2,000 positions across the corporation. The broadcaster currently employs around 21,500 full-time staff. News and Radio ChangesIn a message to employees, BBC News interim chief executive Jonathan Munro said around 200 jobs would be lost within the news division, generating savings of £25 million. Among the most significant changes is the closure of Radio 4’s The World Tonight, which has been on air for 56 years. The programme will be replaced from April by a new schedule featuring a domestic news bulletin at 10pm, followed by a simulcast of the BBC World Service programme Newshour. Several other Radio 4 programmes will also be discontinued over the coming year, including Midnight News, Money Box Live, AntiSocial, The Law Show and Crossing Continents. On the World Service, The Inquiry, The Conversation and The Fifth Floor will also end. The number of permanent presenters on Radio 4’s Today programme will fall from five to four from September, coinciding with the previously announced departure of Amol Rajan. Saturday editions will be led by a single anchor. Television RestructuringBBC One’s Breakfast programme will no longer air on Sunday mornings from September, with viewers instead directed to the News Channel. The production teams behind Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg and Newsnight will be merged, while some weekend television production will be shared between the News Channel and BBC One news bulletins. The broadcaster will also review its chief news presenter roles to ensure what it described as a balance between audience needs and value for money. Friday editions of Newsnight will move to a peak-time 7pm slot on BBC Two as part of a broader reshaping of the programme. Wider Savings ProgrammeThe BBC said it will review its television and radio portfolio as audiences increasingly consume content online. Plans also include cutting between 100 and 150 hours of original television programming across commissioning genres by the end of the 2027-28 financial year, alongside a reduction of around 350 to 400 hours of audio content across stations and formats. The news website’s InDepth section will operate with a smaller team, while the News Channel will place greater emphasis on international coverage to build on growth among audiences outside the UK. BBC director-general Matt Brittin said the measures announced so far would deliver around £160 million of the overall savings target. He also confirmed a 10% reduction in senior leadership roles and said further cuts would be announced in coming months, including around 700 job losses in corporate divisions. Union CriticismThe plans have drawn criticism from unions and former BBC staff. Philippa Childs, head of the media union Bectu, questioned the timing of the cuts as the BBC prepares for charter renewal discussions ahead of the current charter’s expiry in 2027. The National Union of Journalists described the proposals as damaging for audiences and warned that staff were already under significant pressure following previous reductions. Former World Tonight presenter Robin Lustig said he was saddened by the programme’s closure, describing it as a respected and thoughtful part of the BBC’s news output. Munro acknowledged ending the programme had been a difficult decision but said combining resources with Newshour would allow the BBC to serve both domestic and international audiences more efficiently. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 18 June 2026 View full articleWed, 17 Jun 2026 21:19:12 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/hat-yai-airport-closes-runway-after-fire-truck-overturns-r2365/A fire service appliance overturned on the runway at Hat Yai Airport on 17 June 2026, forcing the temporary closure of Runway 26 and causing disruption to some flights. The closure led to inbound flights being diverted to Krabi Airport, according to observations shared on social media and flight tracking data. Get today's headlines by email The issue came to light after users on social media noted that Flightradar24 showed two incoming flights to Hat Yai Airport (HDY/VTSS) changing course and diverting to Krabi Airport (KBV). The reason for the diversions was initially unclear. Initial checks found that the disruption occurred during an emergency response training exercise. During the drill, a fire service structure response appliance driver lost control and overturned the vehicle on the runway apron area. Following the incident, Hat Yai Airport issued a NOTAM announcing the closure of Runway 26 from 13:55 to 16:30 while crews worked to clear the obstruction and restore normal operations. The runway closure affected airport operations and resulted in some flight delays. However, reports indicated that no passengers were stranded as a result of the disruption and alternative arrangements had been made. The incident drew attention online due to the visible impact on flight movements and the diversion of arriving aircraft. Flight tracking information shared on social media prompted questions about why aircraft were unable to land at Hat Yai Airport during the afternoon period. ThaiRath reported that airport officials focused on clearing the runway and managing flight operations while the closure remained in effect. No further details were immediately released regarding damage to the vehicle or whether any injuries were reported. Picture courtesy of ThaiRath Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 18 June 2026Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:16:27 +0000A fire service appliance overturned on the runway at Hat Yai Airport on 17 June 2026, forcing the temporary closure of Runway 26 and causing disruption to some flights. The closure led to inbound flights being diverted to Krabi Airport, according to observations shared on social media and flight tracking data. Get today's headlines by email The issue came to light after users on social media noted that Flightradar24 showed two incoming flights to Hat Yai Airport (HDY/VTSS) changing course and diverting to Krabi Airport (KBV). The reason for the diversions was initially unclear. Initial checks found that the disruption occurred during an emergency response training exercise. During the drill, a fire service structure response appliance driver lost control and overturned the vehicle on the runway apron area. Following the incident, Hat Yai Airport issued a NOTAM announcing the closure of Runway 26 from 13:55 to 16:30 while crews worked to clear the obstruction and restore normal operations. The runway closure affected airport operations and resulted in some flight delays. However, reports indicated that no passengers were stranded as a result of the disruption and alternative arrangements had been made. The incident drew attention online due to the visible impact on flight movements and the diversion of arriving aircraft. Flight tracking information shared on social media prompted questions about why aircraft were unable to land at Hat Yai Airport during the afternoon period. ThaiRath reported that airport officials focused on clearing the runway and managing flight operations while the closure remained in effect. No further details were immediately released regarding damage to the vehicle or whether any injuries were reported. Picture courtesy of ThaiRath Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 18 June 2026 View full articleWed, 17 Jun 2026 21:16:27 +0000I wouldn't wanna be in his shoes....................Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:12:44 +0000President Donald Trump defended a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Iran during a press conference at the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, France, while acknowledging the agreement may not be permanent and warning that military action could resume if Tehran fails to comply. Get today's headlines by email The preliminary accord, signed electronically by Trump and Vice President JD Vance, ends the recent conflict with Iran and opens a 60-day period of negotiations focused on Tehran’s nuclear programme. Trump said a formal signing ceremony could take place later this week. 1. Trump Says Deal Depends on Iranian ComplianceTrump repeatedly stressed that the agreement is only a memorandum of understanding and not a final settlement. He warned that if Iran fails to meet its commitments or violates unwritten understandings between the two sides, the United States could resume military operations. The president argued that recent strikes had helped bring Iran to the negotiating table and suggested force remained an option if diplomacy breaks down. His remarks echoed earlier comments in which he threatened further bombing if Iran did not “behave.” 2. G7 Leaders Back End to ConflictTrump highlighted support from fellow G7 leaders, saying member nations welcomed the agreement because it could help stabilize global energy markets. A key element of the deal is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical shipping route through which roughly one-fifth of global oil supplies pass. The closure of the strait had pushed up energy costs, particularly affecting European economies and Japan. Trump argued that continued military operations could have kept the route closed for months, worsening economic disruption. He also dismissed suggestions that other G7 leaders had raised concerns about whether U.S. strikes on Iran violated international law, saying their focus was instead on the threat posed by Iran. 3. Trump Defends Iran Keeping MissilesThe president also defended provisions allowing Iran to retain part of its ballistic missile arsenal. Trump argued it would be unrealistic to deny Iran missiles while regional rivals such as Saudi Arabia and Israel maintain similar capabilities. He said missiles were not the central issue in the negotiations, which are primarily focused on Iran’s nuclear activities. Trump added that most of Iran’s missile stockpile had already been destroyed or rendered inaccessible during the conflict. Iranian officials have consistently identified their missile programme as a non-negotiable issue in talks with Washington. 4. Differences With Netanyahu RemainTrump also revealed continuing disagreements with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over military operations in Lebanon. While reaffirming Israel’s right to defend itself, Trump suggested Netanyahu should show greater restraint in responding to attacks by Hezbollah. The president said the two leaders had a “dispute” over how aggressively Israel should respond to incidents that cause little or no damage. His comments were notably more measured than criticism he directed at Netanyahu earlier in the week after retaliatory exchanges involving Israel, Hezbollah and Iran threatened to derail the agreement. A ceasefire in Lebanon is one of Iran’s priorities under the MOU and appears prominently in the document. 5. Warning Over Oil SuppliesTrump argued that reopening the Strait of Hormuz was essential to protecting global energy supplies. He claimed oil reserves could have been depleted within weeks had the waterway remained closed, leading to severe economic disruption. The president said continued bombing would have prevented commercial shipping from safely passing through the strait. While it was unclear whether Trump was referring to U.S. reserves or global inventories, international energy agencies have recently warned about tightening oil markets and declining stockpiles. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 18 June 2026 View full articleWed, 17 Jun 2026 21:09:57 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/chinese-fraud-suspect-arrested-in-chiang-mai-r2364/A Chinese national wanted in connection with an alleged pyramid-style investment fraud operation has been arrested in Chiang Mai after fleeing to Thailand. Authorities say the suspect was linked to an online investment platform accused of causing losses worth millions. Get today's headlines by email On June 17, officers from the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) arrested Mr Hou, a 50-year-old Chinese citizen, at a housing estate in Moo 1, Nong Pa Khrang subdistrict, Mueang district, Chiang Mai. The operation was carried out under the direction of Pol Maj Gen Pattanasak Bubphasuwan, commander of the CSD, following the revocation of Mr Hou’s permission to remain in Thailand under an Immigration Bureau Region 5 order dated June 15, 2026. According to investigators, Mr Hou was the subject of an arrest warrant issued by the Taihu County Public Security Bureau in Anhui province, China. He is accused of working with associates to establish Taihu Lutong Tourism Technology Co., Ltd., which allegedly operated an online investment platform used to deceive members of the public. The investigation found that the company recruited investors by promising returns on investments. Authorities allege that the business model focused heavily on encouraging members to recruit new investors and expand subordinate networks, known as downlines, in exchange for financial rewards. Police said the operation resembled a pyramid scheme. Investigators also found that the organisation allegedly maintained a clearly defined three-tier management structure designed to control and expand the investment network, resulting in widespread losses for a large number of victims. Pictures courtesy of Thaitabloid Following an investigation by Chinese authorities and the issuance of an arrest warrant, Mr Hou allegedly fled China. Information later indicated that he had travelled to Thailand and was residing in Chiang Mai. Thai authorities coordinated with relevant agencies to trace his location and carry out the arrest. The operation involved officers from CSD Division 4 and Immigration Bureau Region 5. Thaitabloid reported that Mr Hou has been transferred to Chiang Mai Immigration for detention and further legal processing. Authorities said he will remain in custody while deportation procedures are completed and arrangements are made for his return to the People’s Republic of China, where he is expected to face legal proceedings. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 18 June 2026Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:07:36 +0000A Chinese national wanted in connection with an alleged pyramid-style investment fraud operation has been arrested in Chiang Mai after fleeing to Thailand. Authorities say the suspect was linked to an online investment platform accused of causing losses worth millions. Get today's headlines by email On June 17, officers from the Crime Suppression Division (CSD) arrested Mr Hou, a 50-year-old Chinese citizen, at a housing estate in Moo 1, Nong Pa Khrang subdistrict, Mueang district, Chiang Mai. The operation was carried out under the direction of Pol Maj Gen Pattanasak Bubphasuwan, commander of the CSD, following the revocation of Mr Hou’s permission to remain in Thailand under an Immigration Bureau Region 5 order dated June 15, 2026. According to investigators, Mr Hou was the subject of an arrest warrant issued by the Taihu County Public Security Bureau in Anhui province, China. He is accused of working with associates to establish Taihu Lutong Tourism Technology Co., Ltd., which allegedly operated an online investment platform used to deceive members of the public. The investigation found that the company recruited investors by promising returns on investments. Authorities allege that the business model focused heavily on encouraging members to recruit new investors and expand subordinate networks, known as downlines, in exchange for financial rewards. Police said the operation resembled a pyramid scheme. Investigators also found that the organisation allegedly maintained a clearly defined three-tier management structure designed to control and expand the investment network, resulting in widespread losses for a large number of victims. Pictures courtesy of Thaitabloid Following an investigation by Chinese authorities and the issuance of an arrest warrant, Mr Hou allegedly fled China. Information later indicated that he had travelled to Thailand and was residing in Chiang Mai. Thai authorities coordinated with relevant agencies to trace his location and carry out the arrest. The operation involved officers from CSD Division 4 and Immigration Bureau Region 5. Thaitabloid reported that Mr Hou has been transferred to Chiang Mai Immigration for detention and further legal processing. Authorities said he will remain in custody while deportation procedures are completed and arrangements are made for his return to the People’s Republic of China, where he is expected to face legal proceedings. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 18 June 2026 View full articleWed, 17 Jun 2026 21:07:36 +0000