https://aseannow.com/rss/44-thailand-news.xml/National and regional news from all around Thailandenhttps://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-workers-escape-chinese-scam-hideout-in-poipet-r2188/Three Thai nationals who said they were victims of a call centre scam operation were arrested after illegally crossing the Thai-Cambodian border into Sa Kaeo province, following the reported collapse of a Chinese-run criminal network in Poipet. Get today's headlines by email On 5 June, Col Bancha Chancharat, Deputy Commander of the Burapha Task Force, and Col Chainarong Kasi, Commander of the Aranyaprathet Task Force, ordered intensified patrols along the Thai-Cambodian border between checkpoints A.13 and A.14 in Ban Dong Ngu, Pa Rai subdistrict, Aranyaprathet district. Soldiers from Ranger Company 1201 spotted a group of people crawling through barbed-wire fencing and wading across Khlong Luek into Thailand. Officers arrested three Thai nationals: Nakhon, 32, from Phayao; Monchai, 25, from Phetchabun; and Worarat, 26, from Trang. None were carrying passports or border crossing documents. During questioning, the three claimed they had been recruited by a call centre scam network after responding to job advertisements in a Facebook group called “Jobs in Poipet” in January. They said an administrator offered them work responding to messages in so-called “virtual girlfriend” scams designed to persuade victims to invest money. According to their statements, they travelled to the Aranyaprathet bus terminal, where they were collected and taken across the border through an unofficial crossing point. Cambodian guides then escorted them to a building in Poipet, Banteay Meanchey province, where they were employed by what they described as a Chinese criminal syndicate. One of the workers said the group had been carrying out fraudulent activities since the start of the year. In late May, Cambodian authorities launched a major crackdown on foreign workers linked to scam operations, prompting the Chinese organisers to move employees into a rented property in Poipet and keep them hidden from 20 May until 3 June. The woman said Cambodian police later prepared to search the property on 4 June. After learning of the planned raid, the organisers allegedly abandoned the workers, opened the doors and told them to fend for themselves. The three said they asked local Cambodian residents for directions before making their way on foot to the border. They crossed through natural routes, climbed through barbed wire and waded across Khlong Luek before being intercepted by Thai ranger forces. The Daily News reported that officials said initial checks found no outstanding arrest warrants or case identification records linked to the three individuals. They were transferred to investigators at Khlong Luek Police Station to face charges of illegal entry and to assist authorities with efforts to identify and prosecute those responsible for recruiting workers into the scam network. Picture courtesy of Daily News Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 6 June 2026Fri, 05 Jun 2026 21:46:52 +0000Three Thai nationals who said they were victims of a call centre scam operation were arrested after illegally crossing the Thai-Cambodian border into Sa Kaeo province, following the reported collapse of a Chinese-run criminal network in Poipet. Get today's headlines by email On 5 June, Col Bancha Chancharat, Deputy Commander of the Burapha Task Force, and Col Chainarong Kasi, Commander of the Aranyaprathet Task Force, ordered intensified patrols along the Thai-Cambodian border between checkpoints A.13 and A.14 in Ban Dong Ngu, Pa Rai subdistrict, Aranyaprathet district. Soldiers from Ranger Company 1201 spotted a group of people crawling through barbed-wire fencing and wading across Khlong Luek into Thailand. Officers arrested three Thai nationals: Nakhon, 32, from Phayao; Monchai, 25, from Phetchabun; and Worarat, 26, from Trang. None were carrying passports or border crossing documents. During questioning, the three claimed they had been recruited by a call centre scam network after responding to job advertisements in a Facebook group called “Jobs in Poipet” in January. They said an administrator offered them work responding to messages in so-called “virtual girlfriend” scams designed to persuade victims to invest money. According to their statements, they travelled to the Aranyaprathet bus terminal, where they were collected and taken across the border through an unofficial crossing point. Cambodian guides then escorted them to a building in Poipet, Banteay Meanchey province, where they were employed by what they described as a Chinese criminal syndicate. One of the workers said the group had been carrying out fraudulent activities since the start of the year. In late May, Cambodian authorities launched a major crackdown on foreign workers linked to scam operations, prompting the Chinese organisers to move employees into a rented property in Poipet and keep them hidden from 20 May until 3 June. The woman said Cambodian police later prepared to search the property on 4 June. After learning of the planned raid, the organisers allegedly abandoned the workers, opened the doors and told them to fend for themselves. The three said they asked local Cambodian residents for directions before making their way on foot to the border. They crossed through natural routes, climbed through barbed wire and waded across Khlong Luek before being intercepted by Thai ranger forces. The Daily News reported that officials said initial checks found no outstanding arrest warrants or case identification records linked to the three individuals. They were transferred to investigators at Khlong Luek Police Station to face charges of illegal entry and to assist authorities with efforts to identify and prosecute those responsible for recruiting workers into the scam network. Picture courtesy of Daily News Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 6 June 2026 View full articleFri, 05 Jun 2026 21:46:52 +0000Can they do any worse than your hero trumpstein?Fri, 05 Jun 2026 21:42:46 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/police-probe-suspected-foreign-nominee-firms-in-pai-r2187/Authorities launched a multi-agency operation in Pai, Mae Hong Son province, targeting suspected foreign nominee business networks accused of concealing ownership structures and depriving local residents of business opportunities. The operation resulted in the arrest of three foreign nationals and searches at five locations linked to suspected illegal business activities. Get today's headlines by email Operation Protect Pai, “Crush Nominees” was carried out under policies aimed at tackling foreign business violations, nominee arrangements, illegal employment and offences affecting Thailand’s economic security. The action followed complaints from local residents alleging that foreign investors were operating businesses in the area through Thai nominees and competing unfairly with local entrepreneurs. At 09.30 hrs on 5 June, senior officials gathered outside Pai Police Station to launch the operation. Those attending included Police Lieutenant General Kritthaphon Yeesakhon, Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 5, Police Major General Worapong Khamlue, Deputy Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 5, and Niwat Ngamthara, Deputy Governor of Mae Hong Son province. Officers from immigration, tourist police, district administration, employment, commerce, land and security agencies also took part. Investigators inspected five business premises and reviewed work permits, company registrations and ownership records. Authorities said intelligence gathering indicated that some companies may have been established with Thai shareholders acting on behalf of foreign investors, allowing foreign nationals to control businesses while concealing their involvement. Among those arrested was Israeli national Mr. Goren, who was questioned the day before and was subject to a warrant issued by the Pai branch of the Mae Hong Son Provincial Court. He faces allegations of providing false information to officials and offences under the Foreign Business Act B.E. 2542 (1999) relating to the use of nominee arrangements in the operation of a business. US national identified only as Mr. Frank was arrested on charges of working without a work permit and failing to report the accommodation of foreign nationals within the legally required timeframe. Spanish national Ms. Natalia was arrested on a charge of working without a work permit. Police Lieutenant General Kritthaphon said investigators had identified evidence suggesting that Galco Co., Ltd. operated through a nominee structure involving Thai and foreign shareholders. Authorities named Jinda Chitrat and Nattanon Chitrat as Thai shareholders under investigation and said evidence had been gathered to obtain an arrest warrant for Goren and bring possible charges against Jinda and Nattanon. Investigators are also examining Pai Kiang Fah Co., Ltd., which is alleged to have a similar ownership structure. Authorities claim foreign nationals associated with the company were involved without valid work permits and that the company may have been established to obtain Non-Immigrant B visas, provide false information to officials and facilitate land ownership arrangements designed to circumvent Thai law. Daily News reported that officials said evidence collected during the searches will be used to expand the investigation into connected individuals and businesses. Authorities from Mae Hong Son Provincial Police and partner agencies will continue examining all aspects of the suspected network and pursue legal action against those found to have violated the law. Pictures courtesy of Daily News Related story Israeli-businessman-arrested-over-Pai-studio-operation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 6 June 2026Fri, 05 Jun 2026 21:39:53 +0000Authorities launched a multi-agency operation in Pai, Mae Hong Son province, targeting suspected foreign nominee business networks accused of concealing ownership structures and depriving local residents of business opportunities. The operation resulted in the arrest of three foreign nationals and searches at five locations linked to suspected illegal business activities. Get today's headlines by email Operation Protect Pai, “Crush Nominees” was carried out under policies aimed at tackling foreign business violations, nominee arrangements, illegal employment and offences affecting Thailand’s economic security. The action followed complaints from local residents alleging that foreign investors were operating businesses in the area through Thai nominees and competing unfairly with local entrepreneurs. At 09.30 hrs on 5 June, senior officials gathered outside Pai Police Station to launch the operation. Those attending included Police Lieutenant General Kritthaphon Yeesakhon, Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 5, Police Major General Worapong Khamlue, Deputy Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 5, and Niwat Ngamthara, Deputy Governor of Mae Hong Son province. Officers from immigration, tourist police, district administration, employment, commerce, land and security agencies also took part. Investigators inspected five business premises and reviewed work permits, company registrations and ownership records. Authorities said intelligence gathering indicated that some companies may have been established with Thai shareholders acting on behalf of foreign investors, allowing foreign nationals to control businesses while concealing their involvement. Among those arrested was Israeli national Mr. Goren, who was questioned the day before and was subject to a warrant issued by the Pai branch of the Mae Hong Son Provincial Court. He faces allegations of providing false information to officials and offences under the Foreign Business Act B.E. 2542 (1999) relating to the use of nominee arrangements in the operation of a business. US national identified only as Mr. Frank was arrested on charges of working without a work permit and failing to report the accommodation of foreign nationals within the legally required timeframe. Spanish national Ms. Natalia was arrested on a charge of working without a work permit. Police Lieutenant General Kritthaphon said investigators had identified evidence suggesting that Galco Co., Ltd. operated through a nominee structure involving Thai and foreign shareholders. Authorities named Jinda Chitrat and Nattanon Chitrat as Thai shareholders under investigation and said evidence had been gathered to obtain an arrest warrant for Goren and bring possible charges against Jinda and Nattanon. Investigators are also examining Pai Kiang Fah Co., Ltd., which is alleged to have a similar ownership structure. Authorities claim foreign nationals associated with the company were involved without valid work permits and that the company may have been established to obtain Non-Immigrant B visas, provide false information to officials and facilitate land ownership arrangements designed to circumvent Thai law. Daily News reported that officials said evidence collected during the searches will be used to expand the investigation into connected individuals and businesses. Authorities from Mae Hong Son Provincial Police and partner agencies will continue examining all aspects of the suspected network and pursue legal action against those found to have violated the law. Pictures courtesy of Daily News Related story Israeli-businessman-arrested-over-Pai-studio-operation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 6 June 2026 View full articleFri, 05 Jun 2026 21:39:53 +0000It sends the same message as pretty much every other nation, don't break the law. Has "Pepsi, Carlsberg or Kingsgate" been found guilty of using illegal structures and Thai nominees to establish their business or build factories in Thailand? All three operate through legal, Thai-owned, local subsidiaries. You see the red and yellow "Linfox" trucks that do Lotus's supply logistics? Yes, they are a Thai subsidiary of an Australian transport company that's been legally operating here for decades already.Fri, 05 Jun 2026 21:38:44 +0000JD Vance offering up his opinion while being upfront and to the point! " Vice President Vance claims 18-year-old UK student Henry Nowak would still be alive if Europeans had “stood their ground against self-hatred and the mass invasion of migrants”.Each time a life like his is lost, the proper response—the only response—is righteous anger".Fri, 05 Jun 2026 21:38:37 +0000Hair ? I wear a pink wigFri, 05 Jun 2026 21:37:34 +0000and lots of war gold held in swiss banks and they never reveal it to anybodyFri, 05 Jun 2026 21:30:11 +0000https://edition.cnn.com/2026/06/05/middleeast/iran-supreme-leader-adviser-mohsen-rezaei-interview-intl Exclusive: Iran supreme leader’s adviser says talks deadlocked over $24 billion and warns of wider warFri, 05 Jun 2026 21:26:18 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/man-killed-in-grenade-blast-at-sisaket-home-r2186/A 31-year-old man was killed and his 27-year-old girlfriend critically injured after a grenade exploded inside a home in Sisaket province on the night of 4 June 2026. The blast occurred at a single-storey concrete house in Ban Chan Daeng, Bang Don subdistrict, Khun Han district, leaving windows shattered and causing severe injuries to the woman, who remains in a serious condition. Get today's headlines by email Police identified the dead man as Udomsak “Janjao”, 31. The injured woman, Thanita “Kat”, 27, was initially taken to Khun Han Hospital before being transferred to Sisaket Hospital. Medical staff operated on her skull after grenade fragments became lodged inside it and into parts of her brain. The explosion happened at around 8.50pm while the couple were inside a bedroom. Thanita’s mother was watching television elsewhere in the house when she heard the pair arguing, followed by a loud explosion. When she tried to reach them, she was unable to open the bedroom door and later saw the aftermath through a window before collapsing unconscious. A relative living next door said the blast was so loud that she initially thought it was thunder or artillery fire from across the nearby Thai-Cambodian border. She said the couple had a history of repeatedly separating and reconciling and alleged that Udomsak had previously been involved with drugs. She added the source of the grenade were unknown to the family. Thanita’s mother said she had no knowledge of any grenade being kept at the house and was unaware of what led to the incident. Her main concern, she said, was her daughter’s survival. Police later established that Udomsak and Thanita had been in a relationship before Udomsak served a prison sentence in a drugs case. After his release around two years ago, the couple allegedly experienced ongoing domestic problems linked to his jealousy and suspicions. Investigators believe the explosion occurred during an argument inside the bedroom. Udomsak was found dead on the bed from blast injuries, while Thanita suffered critical wounds. Police said the device used was a hand grenade, known locally as a “look klieng”, which Udomsak had reportedly obtained from a friend. Reporters also found a social media post on Udomsak’s account before the blast. It included a photograph of himself and a message suggesting he wanted to find out whether something was real or fake and indicating that another person would “go with me”. Amarin reported that authorities continue to investigate the source of the grenade and the circumstances surrounding the explosion. Thanita remains in a coma in ICU. Pictures courtesy of Amarin Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 6 June 2026Fri, 05 Jun 2026 21:24:12 +0000A 31-year-old man was killed and his 27-year-old girlfriend critically injured after a grenade exploded inside a home in Sisaket province on the night of 4 June 2026. The blast occurred at a single-storey concrete house in Ban Chan Daeng, Bang Don subdistrict, Khun Han district, leaving windows shattered and causing severe injuries to the woman, who remains in a serious condition. Get today's headlines by email Police identified the dead man as Udomsak “Janjao”, 31. The injured woman, Thanita “Kat”, 27, was initially taken to Khun Han Hospital before being transferred to Sisaket Hospital. Medical staff operated on her skull after grenade fragments became lodged inside it and into parts of her brain. The explosion happened at around 8.50pm while the couple were inside a bedroom. Thanita’s mother was watching television elsewhere in the house when she heard the pair arguing, followed by a loud explosion. When she tried to reach them, she was unable to open the bedroom door and later saw the aftermath through a window before collapsing unconscious. A relative living next door said the blast was so loud that she initially thought it was thunder or artillery fire from across the nearby Thai-Cambodian border. She said the couple had a history of repeatedly separating and reconciling and alleged that Udomsak had previously been involved with drugs. She added the source of the grenade were unknown to the family. Thanita’s mother said she had no knowledge of any grenade being kept at the house and was unaware of what led to the incident. Her main concern, she said, was her daughter’s survival. Police later established that Udomsak and Thanita had been in a relationship before Udomsak served a prison sentence in a drugs case. After his release around two years ago, the couple allegedly experienced ongoing domestic problems linked to his jealousy and suspicions. Investigators believe the explosion occurred during an argument inside the bedroom. Udomsak was found dead on the bed from blast injuries, while Thanita suffered critical wounds. Police said the device used was a hand grenade, known locally as a “look klieng”, which Udomsak had reportedly obtained from a friend. Reporters also found a social media post on Udomsak’s account before the blast. It included a photograph of himself and a message suggesting he wanted to find out whether something was real or fake and indicating that another person would “go with me”. Amarin reported that authorities continue to investigate the source of the grenade and the circumstances surrounding the explosion. Thanita remains in a coma in ICU. Pictures courtesy of Amarin Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 6 June 2026 View full articleFri, 05 Jun 2026 21:24:12 +0000Because it clearly WAS NOT racially motivated. Unless of course you consider ALL brown-on-white, or white-on-brown criminality as being racially motivated. Digwa FALSELY claimed that he had been racially assaulted. Digwa was CORRECTLY charged with murder because he killed a person, the race, faith or ethnicity of whom was irrelevant.Fri, 05 Jun 2026 21:19:31 +0000If American architect writes 24 inches and 2.54cm/inch . And Thai builder uses centimeters then : 24cm/2.54cm/inch = 9.44 inches. For the arithmetic challenged Mr thumbs down.Fri, 05 Jun 2026 21:18:58 +0000A Non O-A visa is valid for 12 months. Each entry you are stamped in for 12 months. The idea of exit Thailand just prior to expiry and reenter with visa still valus is to obtain another 12 months. Note you would require health insurance. Also for travel out of Thailand and back in this second year you require reentry permit. After that you would require insurance for extensiins. Yes you could kill off the Non O-A and obtai a Non O however not best option. Regards travel insurance... For expats living ongoing in Thailand think you will find that travel insurance is not an option. What is needed is health insurance that is annual policy. Many threads on that topicFri, 05 Jun 2026 21:13:05 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/qatari-tourist-bag-snatch-suspect-held-in-bangkok-r2185/A 26-year-old food delivery rider has been arrested in Bangkok after allegedly taking part in the theft of a foreign tourist’s bag in Sukhumvit, with police saying the stolen money was used for personal expenses and online gambling. Get today's headlines by email The arrest was announced on 4 June 2026 by Metropolitan Police Bureau officers led by Pol Lt Gen Siam Boonsom and senior officers from Metropolitan Police Division 5 and Thong Lor Police Station. Anusorn Rodudom, 26, was detained at a restaurant in Huai Khwang district on 3 June at around 6.50pm. The investigation began after Mr Abdulla MuaareJ, a Qatari national, reported the theft to Thong Lor police on 2 June. According to police, two men on a blue Honda Giorno motorcycle targeted the victim in Soi Sukhumvit 38 before snatching his bag and fleeing towards inbound Sukhumvit Road. Picture courtesy of Thaitabloid The stolen property included 20,000 baht in cash, credit cards and other cards. Detectives from Thong Lor Police Station and Metropolitan Police Division 5 reviewed evidence and identified three suspects allegedly involved in the crime. Police said Worachon Hoonthong, 30, acted as a scout and lookout while riding a black and red Honda Wave 125i motorcycle. Jakraphat Koetphuet, 32, allegedly rode the blue and black Honda Giorno+ used in the theft, while Anusorn was accused of carrying out the bag snatch. Investigators said the suspects attempted to avoid detection by placing a black sticker over part of the Giorno motorcycle’s registration plate, changing it from 8 Khor Tor 1596 Bangkok to 8 Khor Tor 4596 Bangkok. During questioning, police said Anusorn admitted working as a food delivery rider and receiving 6,000 baht from the crime. Officers said he told investigators the stolen bag had been discarded after the theft and that the money was intended for spending and online slot gambling. The two remaining suspects have not yet been arrested. Police said they are gathering evidence to obtain arrest warrants and continue efforts to locate and detain both men. Anusorn has been charged with jointly committing night-time theft causing harm or distress to another person and using a vehicle to facilitate the offence, escape with stolen property, or avoid arrest. He has been handed over to investigators at Thong Lor Police Station for legal proceedings. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 6 June 2026Fri, 05 Jun 2026 21:11:37 +0000A 26-year-old food delivery rider has been arrested in Bangkok after allegedly taking part in the theft of a foreign tourist’s bag in Sukhumvit, with police saying the stolen money was used for personal expenses and online gambling. Get today's headlines by email The arrest was announced on 4 June 2026 by Metropolitan Police Bureau officers led by Pol Lt Gen Siam Boonsom and senior officers from Metropolitan Police Division 5 and Thong Lor Police Station. Anusorn Rodudom, 26, was detained at a restaurant in Huai Khwang district on 3 June at around 6.50pm. The investigation began after Mr Abdulla MuaareJ, a Qatari national, reported the theft to Thong Lor police on 2 June. According to police, two men on a blue Honda Giorno motorcycle targeted the victim in Soi Sukhumvit 38 before snatching his bag and fleeing towards inbound Sukhumvit Road. Picture courtesy of Thaitabloid The stolen property included 20,000 baht in cash, credit cards and other cards. Detectives from Thong Lor Police Station and Metropolitan Police Division 5 reviewed evidence and identified three suspects allegedly involved in the crime. Police said Worachon Hoonthong, 30, acted as a scout and lookout while riding a black and red Honda Wave 125i motorcycle. Jakraphat Koetphuet, 32, allegedly rode the blue and black Honda Giorno+ used in the theft, while Anusorn was accused of carrying out the bag snatch. Investigators said the suspects attempted to avoid detection by placing a black sticker over part of the Giorno motorcycle’s registration plate, changing it from 8 Khor Tor 1596 Bangkok to 8 Khor Tor 4596 Bangkok. During questioning, police said Anusorn admitted working as a food delivery rider and receiving 6,000 baht from the crime. Officers said he told investigators the stolen bag had been discarded after the theft and that the money was intended for spending and online slot gambling. The two remaining suspects have not yet been arrested. Police said they are gathering evidence to obtain arrest warrants and continue efforts to locate and detain both men. Anusorn has been charged with jointly committing night-time theft causing harm or distress to another person and using a vehicle to facilitate the offence, escape with stolen property, or avoid arrest. He has been handed over to investigators at Thong Lor Police Station for legal proceedings. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 6 June 2026 View full articleFri, 05 Jun 2026 21:11:37 +0000Got it. Work on your translation then.Fri, 05 Jun 2026 21:03:41 +0000A federal appeals court on Friday examined the Trump administration’s claim that President Donald Trump can proceed with construction of a new White House ballroom without congressional approval, as Justice Department lawyers argued that courts lack the power to stop the project once it is underway. Get today's headlines by email During a hearing before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Yaakov Roth said judges could not block the project, even as construction advances. He noted that more than 3 million pounds of steel reinforcing bar had already been delivered to the site and said the project was “well on its way.” Judge Patricia Millett repeatedly challenged that position, asking whether any court could prevent the ballroom from being built. Roth replied that it could not. Statue of Liberty Hypothetical Draws AttentionThe hearing took a dramatic turn when Millett posed a hypothetical scenario involving the destruction of the Statue of Liberty. She asked whether the administration’s legal argument would also mean that no lawsuit could stop the government from quickly bulldozing the monument if construction moved fast enough. Roth agreed, saying that once an alleged injury becomes impossible for a court to remedy, it is no longer legally redressable. The exchange prompted audible reactions in the courtroom. Millett criticized what she described as a “move fast and break things” approach, questioning whether rapid action by the government could effectively prevent legal challenges from succeeding. Preservation Group's Right to Sue Under ScrutinyThe case was brought by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which argues that it has standing to challenge the ballroom project because of its mission to protect historic sites and because some of its members would be harmed by alterations to the White House complex. Roth contended that the organization lacks standing because the original East Wing has already been demolished and courts can no longer provide meaningful relief. The judges appeared divided on the issue. While Millett expressed skepticism toward the administration’s arguments, Judge Neomi Rao raised questions suggesting concerns about whether the preservation group has the legal right to bring the lawsuit. Millett also questioned the administration’s dismissal of claims by National Trust board member Alison Hoagland, who argues that the project would alter the historic character of the White House grounds. Authority and Security Concerns DebatedSeveral judges also questioned whether federal laws cited by the administration provide sufficient authority for the project. Judge Bradley Garcia noted that one statute appears to authorize maintenance and upkeep of the White House but does not explicitly permit major construction projects involving demolition and replacement of existing structures. Rao likewise questioned whether the Office of the Executive Residence has the authority to oversee construction work on behalf of the National Park Service. The Justice Department defended the project by arguing that it serves critical security purposes. Roth said the former East Wing lacked the protections needed to address modern threats, including drone attacks, and that the redevelopment is intended to provide a secure location for the president and senior government officials during emergencies. Construction Continues During AppealThe Trump administration is seeking to overturn a March ruling by U.S. District Judge Richard Leon, who found that Trump exceeded his authority in pursuing the ballroom project and ordered construction halted. That order was temporarily suspended by the appeals court in April, allowing work on the project to continue while the legal challenge proceeds. The appellate panel has not yet issued a decision on whether the lawsuit can move forward or whether construction should ultimately be allowed to continue. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 6 June 2026 View full articleFri, 05 Jun 2026 21:03:31 +0000Sounds like a business going gangbusters. Health supplements biz a gravy train. Cops just jealous of the man's work ethic.Fri, 05 Jun 2026 21:02:47 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/tat-eyes-higher-tourism-forecast-for-thailand-r2184/Thailand’s tourism outlook is showing signs of improvement, prompting the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to consider revising its 2026 foreign tourist target after the impact of the Middle East conflict proved less severe than initially expected. Get today's headlines by email TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said the agency’s earlier downside scenario, which projected 30-32 million foreign arrivals this year if the conflict continued for three months, may have been overly cautious. Recent data indicates stronger-than-expected performance in long-haul markets, particularly from the Middle East, where arrivals were forecast to fall by around 40% but declined by less than 30% during the first five months of the year. Further positive signals emerged ahead of Thailand Travel Mart Plus 2026 (TTM+ 2026), which will take place from 10-12 June at the Nong Nooch Pattaya International Convention and Exhibition Centre in Chonburi. Buyers from the Middle East are expected to attend the event to negotiate tourism agreements, with strong interest in health and wellness products, new campaigns and future marketing initiatives once regional conditions improve. TAT is also seeking to attract Middle Eastern airlines to establish routes to Thai aviation hubs, including U-Tapao Airport, in preparation for future demand growth. Thapanee said TAT may revise its forecast again. The agency had previously expected foreign arrivals in 2026 to decline by 5-10%, but now believes the reduction will be clearly below 5%. The revised estimate could see arrivals fall by only 1-2%, or potentially avoid a contraction altogether, compared with the 32.97 million foreign visitors recorded in 2025. She said the decline now appeared far smaller than previously feared and could improve further. TAT will continue monitoring developments before discussing any revised targets with the tourism and sports minister and the TAT board. The agency is also focusing on increasing spending per visitor. While a new revenue target has not yet been finalised, Thapanee said it would not be lower than last year’s level. Visa policy remains a challenge in several markets, particularly India. The Cabinet approved in principle on 19 May the cancellation of the 60-day visa-free measure for tourists from 93 countries and territories, returning to previous visa-free arrangements for each country. Although the change has not yet taken effect, Thapanee said discussions with relevant agencies would be needed to maintain growth from the Indian market, including MICE travellers and wedding groups. She said Thailand should focus less on overall arrival numbers and comparisons with competitors, and instead prioritise attracting more long-haul travellers and generating higher tourism revenue. Tourism and Sports Ministry data showed Thailand welcomed 14,032,649 foreign tourists between 1 January and 31 May, down 2.3% year-on-year. Visitor spending generated approximately 679.274 billion baht, down 2.48%. Regional figures showed Middle East arrivals, excluding Iran and Israel, reached 150,779 during the first five months, down 24.83%. Europe recorded 3,965,179 arrivals, up 0.26%, while the Americas posted 704,789 arrivals, up 0.31%. Asia-Pacific arrivals totalled 9,146,708, down 3.08%. The Nation reported that in May alone, Thailand welcomed 2,346,845 foreign tourists, an increase of 3.54% compared with the same month last year. Middle East arrivals stood at 47,726, down 1.9%, while Europe recorded 365,345 visitors, down 0.35%. Arrivals from the Americas rose 3.56% to 102,389, while Asia-Pacific arrivals increased 4.53% to 1,818,479. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 6 June 2026Fri, 05 Jun 2026 21:00:18 +0000Thailand’s tourism outlook is showing signs of improvement, prompting the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to consider revising its 2026 foreign tourist target after the impact of the Middle East conflict proved less severe than initially expected. Get today's headlines by email TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool said the agency’s earlier downside scenario, which projected 30-32 million foreign arrivals this year if the conflict continued for three months, may have been overly cautious. Recent data indicates stronger-than-expected performance in long-haul markets, particularly from the Middle East, where arrivals were forecast to fall by around 40% but declined by less than 30% during the first five months of the year. Further positive signals emerged ahead of Thailand Travel Mart Plus 2026 (TTM+ 2026), which will take place from 10-12 June at the Nong Nooch Pattaya International Convention and Exhibition Centre in Chonburi. Buyers from the Middle East are expected to attend the event to negotiate tourism agreements, with strong interest in health and wellness products, new campaigns and future marketing initiatives once regional conditions improve. TAT is also seeking to attract Middle Eastern airlines to establish routes to Thai aviation hubs, including U-Tapao Airport, in preparation for future demand growth. Thapanee said TAT may revise its forecast again. The agency had previously expected foreign arrivals in 2026 to decline by 5-10%, but now believes the reduction will be clearly below 5%. The revised estimate could see arrivals fall by only 1-2%, or potentially avoid a contraction altogether, compared with the 32.97 million foreign visitors recorded in 2025. She said the decline now appeared far smaller than previously feared and could improve further. TAT will continue monitoring developments before discussing any revised targets with the tourism and sports minister and the TAT board. The agency is also focusing on increasing spending per visitor. While a new revenue target has not yet been finalised, Thapanee said it would not be lower than last year’s level. Visa policy remains a challenge in several markets, particularly India. The Cabinet approved in principle on 19 May the cancellation of the 60-day visa-free measure for tourists from 93 countries and territories, returning to previous visa-free arrangements for each country. Although the change has not yet taken effect, Thapanee said discussions with relevant agencies would be needed to maintain growth from the Indian market, including MICE travellers and wedding groups. She said Thailand should focus less on overall arrival numbers and comparisons with competitors, and instead prioritise attracting more long-haul travellers and generating higher tourism revenue. Tourism and Sports Ministry data showed Thailand welcomed 14,032,649 foreign tourists between 1 January and 31 May, down 2.3% year-on-year. Visitor spending generated approximately 679.274 billion baht, down 2.48%. Regional figures showed Middle East arrivals, excluding Iran and Israel, reached 150,779 during the first five months, down 24.83%. Europe recorded 3,965,179 arrivals, up 0.26%, while the Americas posted 704,789 arrivals, up 0.31%. Asia-Pacific arrivals totalled 9,146,708, down 3.08%. The Nation reported that in May alone, Thailand welcomed 2,346,845 foreign tourists, an increase of 3.54% compared with the same month last year. Middle East arrivals stood at 47,726, down 1.9%, while Europe recorded 365,345 visitors, down 0.35%. Arrivals from the Americas rose 3.56% to 102,389, while Asia-Pacific arrivals increased 4.53% to 1,818,479. Picture courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 6 June 2026 View full articleFri, 05 Jun 2026 21:00:18 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/truck-carrying-migrants-crashes-in-chumphon-r2183/A migrant smuggling operation was disrupted after an 18-wheel articulated lorry crashed into a roadside ditch on Asia Highway 41 in Chumphon province, leading to the arrest of 10 undocumented foreign nationals and the driver allegedly transporting them to Malaysia. Get today's headlines by email The incident occurred at 5.50am on 5 June, when Pol Lt Col Somboon Kanjana, an investigator at Ban Wisai Nuea Police Station, received a report of a lorry that had left the road near kilometre marker 12 on Asia Highway 41. Officers arriving at the scene found an Isuzu tractor unit registered in Songkhla and trailer also in Songkhla in a roadside ditch with minor damage. Police became suspicious after discovering that several people had fled the vehicle before officers arrived. A nearby resident, Mr Joe, said the truck had blocked access to his home earlier that morning, preventing him from leaving to take students to school. After the road was cleared, he inspected the area behind his house and found 10 strangers hiding in grass and vegetation, prompting him to alert police. Officers from Ban Wisai Nuea Police Station surrounded the area and detained 10 foreign nationals, comprising eight men and two women. Their nationality could not immediately be confirmed, although authorities believe they are migrant workers from Myanmar. They were taken for further questioning and document checks. During questioning, the driver, 50-year-old Somkid Tipsombat from Songkhla province, told investigators he had been transporting electronic equipment from Nakhon Ratchasima to Malaysia. He admitted that at around 10pm he had agreed to collect 10 foreign nationals in Wang Manao, Phetchaburi province, for payment of 10,000 baht and transport them to Malaysia. According to police, the journey ended prematurely when the lorry driver lost control on a rain-slicked road and slid into the ditch. Mr Somkid allegedly instructed the migrants to leave the vehicle and hide in nearby bushes and behind residential properties to avoid detection. The attempted journey was uncovered after local residents reported the unusual activity, enabling police to locate and detain all 10 individuals. Authorities have taken Mr Somkid and the 10 foreign nationals into custody and transferred them to investigators at Ban Wisai Nuea Police Station for legal proceedings. Daily News reported that police are also expanding their investigation to identify and prosecute those responsible for organising the transport operation, including recruiters, brokers and other members of the suspected migrant smuggling network. Pictures courtesy of Daily News Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 6 June 2026Fri, 05 Jun 2026 20:53:47 +0000A migrant smuggling operation was disrupted after an 18-wheel articulated lorry crashed into a roadside ditch on Asia Highway 41 in Chumphon province, leading to the arrest of 10 undocumented foreign nationals and the driver allegedly transporting them to Malaysia. Get today's headlines by email The incident occurred at 5.50am on 5 June, when Pol Lt Col Somboon Kanjana, an investigator at Ban Wisai Nuea Police Station, received a report of a lorry that had left the road near kilometre marker 12 on Asia Highway 41. Officers arriving at the scene found an Isuzu tractor unit registered in Songkhla and trailer also in Songkhla in a roadside ditch with minor damage. Police became suspicious after discovering that several people had fled the vehicle before officers arrived. A nearby resident, Mr Joe, said the truck had blocked access to his home earlier that morning, preventing him from leaving to take students to school. After the road was cleared, he inspected the area behind his house and found 10 strangers hiding in grass and vegetation, prompting him to alert police. Officers from Ban Wisai Nuea Police Station surrounded the area and detained 10 foreign nationals, comprising eight men and two women. Their nationality could not immediately be confirmed, although authorities believe they are migrant workers from Myanmar. They were taken for further questioning and document checks. During questioning, the driver, 50-year-old Somkid Tipsombat from Songkhla province, told investigators he had been transporting electronic equipment from Nakhon Ratchasima to Malaysia. He admitted that at around 10pm he had agreed to collect 10 foreign nationals in Wang Manao, Phetchaburi province, for payment of 10,000 baht and transport them to Malaysia. According to police, the journey ended prematurely when the lorry driver lost control on a rain-slicked road and slid into the ditch. Mr Somkid allegedly instructed the migrants to leave the vehicle and hide in nearby bushes and behind residential properties to avoid detection. The attempted journey was uncovered after local residents reported the unusual activity, enabling police to locate and detain all 10 individuals. Authorities have taken Mr Somkid and the 10 foreign nationals into custody and transferred them to investigators at Ban Wisai Nuea Police Station for legal proceedings. Daily News reported that police are also expanding their investigation to identify and prosecute those responsible for organising the transport operation, including recruiters, brokers and other members of the suspected migrant smuggling network. Pictures courtesy of Daily News Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 6 June 2026 View full articleFri, 05 Jun 2026 20:53:47 +0000U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has ended a policy requiring the agency to report and investigate the deaths of former detainees who die within 30 days of their release, reversing a measure introduced during the Biden administration. Get today's headlines by email The change was ordered by acting ICE director David Venturella in a recent memo and was first reported by the Washington Post. Biden-Era Rule RevokedThe policy being withdrawn was introduced in 2021 and required ICE to notify Congress and conduct reviews when former detainees died within a month of leaving custody. The measure was intended to prevent the agency from avoiding accountability by releasing seriously ill detainees shortly before their deaths. Under the rule, deaths occurring shortly after release remained subject to scrutiny, allowing investigators to assess whether medical care or detention conditions may have contributed. In his memo, Venturella said ICE would return to its previous practice of reporting only deaths that occur while individuals are in agency custody. Concerns Over AccountabilitySupporters of the 2021 policy argued that it closed a potential loophole in detention oversight. The rule was adopted after the death of a man who suffered a stroke while being held for two years at the Adelanto detention centre in California. After contracting Covid-19, he was released by ICE and died three days later. At the time, Deborah Fleischaker, then acting chief of staff at ICE, said the policy change was intended to make clear that detainees should not be released simply to avoid recording deaths in custody. Cases involving detainees suffering from severe infections or brain injuries who died soon after release also helped shape the policy. Agency Under ScrutinyThe decision comes as ICE faces increased scrutiny over healthcare and detention conditions. According to the report, 18 detainees have died during the first five months of this year. The agency has also faced concerns over a number of suicides in detention facilities. Critics argue that ending post-release reporting could make it harder to assess the full impact of detention policies and medical care provided while individuals are in custody. ICE Defends MoveAn ICE spokesperson defended the policy change, describing it as a return to a more practical approach. The spokesperson told the Washington Post that the agency remains committed to transparency regarding deaths that occur while detainees are in custody. However, the spokesperson said ICE should not be responsible for monitoring or reviewing deaths that take place weeks after individuals have left detention. The change marks a significant shift in how the agency tracks and reports deaths connected to its detention system, narrowing oversight to those that occur while a person remains in ICE custody. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 6 June 2026 View full articleFri, 05 Jun 2026 20:53:38 +0000